The gaping hole behind the safety fencing on the corner of Tennyson St and Marine Parade is filling in as construction of the new wing of the Hawke's Bay Museum and Art Gallery moves above ground.
Those neighbours in Herschell St, who have enjoyed a temporary sea view since the original buildings were demolished, will see it slowly disappear as the project moves to the anticipated three-level height.
The redevelopment began with the removal of the old council chambers to a temporary site off Byron St, and demolition of the Lilliput building on the Parade. The former Lilliput and Planetarium that featured on the site were relocated before the demolition process.
The Lilliput model village and railway, founded in 1948 by Bill Knapp of Napier, has been relocated to Trainworld in Dickens Street. The Planetarium is housed at Napier Boys' High School.
Now, more than six months into the project, Hawke's Bay construction company Gemco Construction is ensuring the $18 million redevelopment of the Museum and Art Gallery is on track for completion in 2013.