Hamilton City Council is set to replace the ageing and damaged facade of the Garden Place building in a six-month project starting in August.

The current facade of the 1970s building is at the end of its life, with years of water damage in difficult-to-access areas ruling out ‘quick fixes’ as an option.

Rebecca Whitehead, Council’s Unit Director Community Services, said while the replacement is underway, the library will remain open and safe to use.

“This is about taking care of our buildings and making sure the Central Library is safe and fit-for-purpose for the thousands of Hamiltonians who use and rely on the library each year.”

The replacement will safeguard the library’s historical archives, a collection of more than 140,000 items, and one of the city’s busiest community hubs – with more than 145,000 visits and 430 events hosted last year.

While the work is essential, the new facade will also make a statement.

“When finished, it will reflect the commitment that Council has in supporting the future of its libraries and the central city for people to live, work, and thrive.”

Whitehead said the facade was designed in collaboration with mana whenua and symbolises the library’s role as a place of knowledge and discovery.

“The design includes a Maaori proverb (whakataukii) done in a creative, yet simple way. The letters are horizontal which will cast a shadow of the phrase on the building, moving throughout the day to represent how stories from the past can change in meaning over time,” explained Whitehead.

“The eastern side of the facade will have a grid of coloured LEDs that form a simple digital art display. Together, these elements highlight the library's cultural significance and its role in an ever-changing future.”

“The 2019 mural was a beautiful way to brighten up the space while we sorted out a long-term solution for the facade. The art was always going to be temporary and we're working with Boon Arts Festival to see what other opportunities there are in the city for more stunning murals.”

This is one of the many projects underway to maintain and enhance the central city, especially Garden Place. Other work includes enhanced lighting, new street furniture and plantings, and new cobblestones on Worley Place.

The tender process for the facade construction is taking place from May to July with work expected to begin in August. The project is expected to be completed in February 2026.

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