Dunedin (Wednesday, 14 May 2025) – The condition of the Dunedin Gasworks Museum chimney is worse than first thought, meaning supports will be installed to secure the structure and allow contractors to deconstruct it safely, the Dunedin City Council says.

DCC Group Manager Property Services Anna Nilsen says, “We have now received updated specialist advice and the results of detailed inspections of the chimney, which have been carried out using drones and crane access to the structure.

“These show that in addition to the cracks and movement within the structure we already knew about, there is significant localised damage in the upper sections of the chimney that pose a risk of collapse once we start work.”

Ms Nilsen says the focus now is on ensuring a safe deconstruction of the chimney and mitigating the risk of an uncontrolled collapse.

“Our contractors are now beginning work to shore up the chimney, which should allow them to begin a careful deconstruction later this week.

“We remain committed to saving as much of the chimney as possible, but it’s a complex job and public safety is the top priority.”

Ms Nilsen says the DCC is working closely with the Dunedin Gasworks Museum Trust and keeping members informed throughout.

“We thank everyone – especially Trust members – for their understanding, and for the Trust’s continuing mahi at the Gasworks for the benefit of our community.”

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