Background

The Far North Regional Museum and the library had for some years identified the need to expand their buildings. This need resulted in a plan for Council, through its Long Term Community Plan, to look at rationalising all Council buildings in Kaitaia to match community expectations. The demonstrated need for a multifunctional facility to provide modern, purpose-built spaces for Kaitaia’s library, museum, i-SITE and service centre – especially the arts and culture – arose out of the LTCCP, with the recent addition to integrate the Far North Community Centre and Little Theatre.

It is acknowledged that to succeed in the venture to construct a multifunctional community facility, it is vital that the project be driven by the community. The Te Ahu Charitable Trust Inc., was officially formed after nominations were called from the Far North community.