Waikato District Council is inviting the community to have their say as planning begins for an exciting new community hub and library in Ngaaruawaahia.

The new hub will be built on the corner of Great South Road and Jesmond Street, combining the current Ngaaruawaahia Library site with the former Waipa Hotel property, which Council purchased in 2023. This central location is ideal for creating a welcoming, accessible space right in the heart of town.

The current library is small and housed in an ageing building, with no room to grow. The acquisition of the Waipa Hotel site unlocks the potential to deliver a modern facility that meets the needs of our growing community.

This project brings to life a long-held aspiration: a space where people can connect, learn, and thrive. The idea of a community hub isn’t new; in 2017, Council worked with locals to craft a shared vision:

“Connecting our community through creativity and knowledge – a legacy for the future – uniquely Ngaaruawaahia.”

Newcastle-Ngaaruawāhia General Ward Councillor, Eugene Patterson says the project represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a modern, welcoming space where people can connect, learn, and thrive.

“Ngaaruawaahia deserves a facility that reflects its identity, history, and future. This hub will do just that, and we want the community to be at the heart of shaping it.”

Shaping the future of our town centre

Revitalising the town centre was a key reason behind Council’s decision to purchase the site. Its central location makes it a perfect anchor for wider improvements to the main street.

There’s also potential to develop the rest of the site, bringing more life and energy to the area.

Have Your Say

Now, Council wants to hear from the people who will use the space: you!

What would you like to see in a new community hub? More digital access? Cultural spaces? Meeting rooms? Art displays? Youth zones?

Take the Survey

The survey is open now at www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz/ngahub or grab a paper copy from our Ngaaruawaahia office or library.

We’ll also be on-site at the Ngaaruawaahia Markets on Saturday 8 November 2025.

Survey closes: 23 November 2025

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