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Hawkins preserving history at Karori Cemetery
1 August 2016
Hawkins preserving history at Karori Cemetery
Hawkins is currently earthquake strengthening
the chapels and replacing one of New Zealand’s oldest
cremators at Karori Cemetery. The Small Chapel and
Crematorium date back to 1909.
There were 2 cremator units, weighing 14.5 tonnes each, which had reached the end of their serviceable life and had to be craned out through a hole in the roof that was made by removing the tiles and framing. The new cremator was then seamlessly lifted into place and the roof is currently being re-built around it.
The project is expected to be completed next month. It forms part of Wellington City Council’s programme to make the city stronger and safer. Key work involves:
Earthquake strengthening the Small Chapel, Crematorium, Main Chapel, and Mess Room
Removing and restoring the seven stained-glass windows in the Small Chapel
Accessibility and fire protection improvements
Installing the new cremator
There are seven stained glass windows in the Small Chapel and six of them were built in the An Tur Gloine (Tower of Glass) factory in Dublin between 1914-1939. Buildings portfolio leader, Councillor Iona Pannett, says the work is a crucial part of preserving the building’s heritage.
“The Karori Cemetery chapels are valuable community assets and listed heritage buildings, so this initial removal and restoration work on the windows is part of our effort to improve the resilience of our buildings in an earthquake.
“It’s also important for our heritage buildings to keep the characteristics that make them so special for future generations to enjoy,” she says.
Matt Wilton, Hawkins Regional Manager Construction, says “The Karori Cemetery chapels are valuable community assets and listed heritage buildings. Hawkins is relishing the opportunity to help preserve this charming slice of New Zealand history, thus ensuring its future use for the local community.”
The Karori cemetery was established in 1891 and is New Zealand’s second largest burial site with over 83,000 people buried there. Today the cemetery is a wealth of Wellington history and a peaceful place to visit – and work!
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