Investigations are underway to relocate the Dargaville Library to a more spacious and functional setting, potentially on the ground floor of 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville.

Since its move to Normanby Street in 2010, Dargaville Library has operated in a limited 266-square-metre space, reusing fixtures from the previous tenants. Feedback from the community and staff has consistently highlighted concerns around space constraints, accessibility, and health and safety. With increasing demand for better library facilities, Council is exploring ways to provide an improved service without incurring substantial costs.

Recent Kaipara District Council briefings have discussed how to better utilise the office space at 32 Hokianga Road, which is owned by the Northland Regional Council and which houses both the Kaipara District Council (the main tenant) and the regional council’s Kaipara Service Centre. The proposed move to the ground floor would allow the library to expand into approximately 450 square metres, improving its services and reducing pressure on staff and users.

Kaipara District Council General Manager for Corporate Services, Sue Davidson, says the investigations reflect ongoing efforts to improve service delivery in a financially responsible way.

“We’re always looking for smart ways to make the most of what we’ve got. We’re looking at the opportunity to give our community the library experience they’ve been asking for in a way that’s affordable. It could be a practical solution that fits with where Council wants to head.”

Northland Regional Council (NRC) has agreed in principle to support the initiative by firstly being involved in a feasibility study to access the proposal. Council discussions have indicated mutual support for assessment from NRC management and elected members.

NRC Chief Executive, Jonathan Gibbard, says the study will also consider regional council office space requirements.

“It is important to ensure that our staff can maintain, or even enhance, the successful service delivery they have provided from the building these last three years.”

The proposed relocation could also open doors for other opportunities for groups to use the current library space at Normanby Street.

Council staff are now working with NRC to clarify space availability and prepare a detailed cost proposal. Elected members will review this information to determine the feasibility of the relocation. While the development of a multi-purpose community hub that was to include the library services has been paused due to the external funding being reallocated, this option may present an efficient and cost-effective improvement for Kaipara library services.

Staff will report back to upcoming council meetings on the detailed costs and final proposal.

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