Tui Brewery changes could threaten jobs

ICONIC: Tui Brewery tower.

Tui Brewery are looking at scaling down their Mangatainoka Brewery capacity, which may threaten up to 24 jobs.

A media spokeswoman for DB said they had entered a consultation to redevelop the Tui Brewery, involving the installation of a new, smaller brewery "to service the requirements of the region".

She said the move would enhance the Tui HQ experience and generate further tourism.

"If the proposed redevelopment goes ahead, up to 24 full-time and part-time roles would be affected.

"The exact number will be determined at the conclusion of the consultation process.

"Any changes to these roles would not take effect until May 2016 under this proposal."

She said DB is committed to the Mangatainoka community and the wider region, as demonstrated by the commissioning of multimillion-dollar earthquake strengthening works for the Tui Tower.

DB would not be making further comment on the consultation, she said.

The Tui Brewery Tower, a Category 1 Historic Place, was completed in the early 1930s.

In an eight-month operation, the tower will be cut free from its original foundations, using a technique called "base isolation".

The seven-storey tower will be lifted and new foundations, designed to cushion and absorb earthquake movement, will be put in place.