Manatū Taonga moves to former Public Trust Office Building

Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage (Ministry) is open for business in the newly refurbished former Public Trust Office Building on Lambton Quay, Wellington.

“Moving to this Category One heritage listed building fits well with the Ministry’s goals and objectives to support our dynamic culture and preserve our rich heritage,” Chief Executive Paul James said.

“With its fine past and formidable presence in our capital city this building is a visible and powerful symbol of what we are all about and my sincere thanks go to Maurice Clark, Managing Director, McKee Fehl Constructors, for his significant contribution to our heritage landscape.

“This iconic example of built heritage has been restored to ensure its heritage values are maintained and enhanced through his drive and foresight. Built in 1908 the building has been earthquake strengthened and sensitively restored to its former glory complete with a flexible modern fitout.

“In keeping with its history all our meeting rooms have been named after people who have made a contribution to the cultural and heritage sector or have an historic association with the building. Both staff and visitors will be able to share the memories of these people, from Janet Frame to Apirana Ngata and Freda Stark to Ralph Hotere, and the impact they have had in New Zealand and overseas.

“The close proximity to the Ministry for Business Innovation and Employment, Te Puni Kokiri and the Department of Internal Affairs will strengthen our working relationships with these other government agencies.

“After working in temporary accommodation our 15-year lease in this building makes sense and is certainly cost effective.

“This will be a great place for the Ministry to work and to host colleagues from other government agencies and people from the arts, culture and heritage sector.

“I firmly believe our move here will foster the aspirations and work of our Ministry,” Paul James said.

The refurbished building was officially opened by the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Hon Maggie Barry ONZM, on Tuesday 27 October 2015.
More information about the building and its history is on the Ministry’s website and in Te Ara, the Encyclopedia of New Zealand.

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