Work Underway to Future-Proof Whakatāne War Memorial Hall

Early work is underway at the Whakatane War Memorial Hall, as part of the Whakatāne District Council’s wider Rex Morpeth Recreation Hub redevelopment.

The focus is on addressing safety, accessibility, and functionality issues that have built up over more than two decades of underinvestment.

The council said this ongoing work will support the everyday use of the Hall.

“The Whakatāne War Memorial Hall is home to theatre rehearsals, exercise classes and indoor sports - a steady rhythm of activity that reflects how closely the building is woven into everyday community life,” it said.

The early stages of work are underway, including roof cladding replacement at the reception lounge and safety improvements within the Little Theatre.

General Manager of Community Experience, Alexandra Pickles, said the work is about looking after a “much-loved” community asset, which is used every day.  

“The War Memorial Hall supports a wide range of groups from across the district, week in and week out,” she said.

“It’s a building many people rely on, but over time deferred renewals have led to issues such as leaks, ageing electrical and fire systems, accessibility barriers and spaces that no longer function as well as they should for today’s users.”

Pickles said the current work is focusing on “delivering immediate community benefit.”

“This isn’t about expansion or adding extras. It’s about doing the necessary work to make the Hall safe, weather-tight and easier for everyone to use, while protecting it for the future.”

Further functional improvements are being planned alongside the work already completed or in progress.

These will require additional design and consenting, with a temporary closure of the hall expected at a later stage.

The council said any impacts will be managed and timeframes will be communicated to those affected.

It said they are also progressing concept planning to explore longer-term improvements to the Hall; these plans are indicative, and are being used to “test options relating to functionality, access and staging.”

“Further technical work, costings and engagement with key user groups and other interested parties will help refine these options and inform future decisions,” said the council.

This “staged approach” allows the council to address priority issues now, while providing clear direction for councillors to consider future additional improvements.

The council said its goal for this work is to create a safer building, improve access for all ages and abilities, and create a more reliable space that continues to “support community use for the Whakatāne District and wider region.”

“This is about respecting the history of the War Memorial Hall, while making sure it continues to meet the needs of the people who use it most,” said Pickles.