19 January 2021
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Rotorua Museum strengthening and restoration project
Enquiry
I've just had an interview with Lizzie regarding the past six months in her museum director role and want to include in the story where the museum is at with construction.
Could you please give me the latest timeline for when it's due to be reopened, what's been done so far and the cost/funding.
Response
The following information was provided:
Funding
$53.1 million dollars has been raised from Rotorua Lakes Council, Provincial Growth fund, Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust, NZ Lottery Grants Board, Ministry of Culture and Heritage and the Phillip Verry Charitable Foundation which will go towards strengthening and restoring the building.
Funding for exhibitions are still being raised, with the help of the Rotorua Museum Centennial Trust.
Construction
Pre-construction work continues at Rotorua Museum. Removal of asbestos was completed prior to Christmas 2020 and the majority of the basement and heritage features have been removed and preserved.
Full construction phase will get underway in 2021.
Completion of the project is 2 - 3 years away.