Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton has welcomed the Government’s announcement on refocusing the earthquake-prone building system, calling the proposals “practical, realistic and potentially a huge win for both the Chateau and Ruapehu’s small towns.”

“These proposed changes introduce a much fairer balance between the costs of strengthening work and the actual risks that earthquake-prone buildings pose,” said Mayor Kirton.

“They will help make remediation work more affordable, economic and achievable, which is exactly what our communities need.”

“Minister Penk has indicated that a targeted retrofit approach on projects like the Chateau could reduce strengthening costs by around 20 percent on average.

For the Chateau, where estimates for a complete refurbishment are up to $100+ million, this is huge,” said Mayor Kirton.

It will significantly lower the financial risks for potential investors.”

Mayor Kirton also welcomed Minister Penk’s comments that further regulatory relief - including possible changes to resource management and heritage rules - was being considered.

“We would strongly support this being explored further.

“The Chateau is a treasured part of our heritage, but it has also been a vital contributor to our economy.

We need rules that support its restoration and future, rather than stand in the way.”

Under the proposals, smaller buildings in towns with fewer than 10,000 residents would no longer require remediation or warning notices, though owners would still need to secure façades before removal from the register.

“This is just common sense,” Mayor Kirton said.

“It recognises the reality for our smaller towns where blanket rules were placing an unrealistic burden on owners and communities.”

The ability for councils to grant extensions of up to 15 years for remediation deadlines is another significant step forward.

“This gives building owners the breathing space they need to plan, secure funding, and carry out major works in a way that is practical and sustainable,” he noted.

“While the legislation still needs to be finalised and Council will need to carefully review what it means in practice, we are very happy and excited about the direction of travel.

These proposals have the potential to significantly reduce costs and help reinvigorate our communities as intended,” he said.

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