Cop shop chopped as building goes

The temporary accommodation is removed. Photo / Stephen Parker

The final works in the new Rotorua police station is taking place this week with the removal of temporary accommodation at the back of the building.

The building was home to frontline staff during the construction.

Rotorua police Inspector Ed Van Den Broek said the works meant the police cars would soon be able to be parked off the road. There are about 60 vehicles used by police.

"This is the last major piece of works," he said.

"This building was colloquially known as Area 51 by staff and housed the frontline staff. Once it's gone the backyard will be developed for parking and when that is completed the large majority of cars parked on the street will be able to be parked behind the station."

He said the building had to be cut into three parts to get it off site and moved to its new owners.

"When it was built here it was designed with removal in mind."

He said the Pukuatua St entrance was closed to police cars but they could enter via Haupapa St.

Police moved into the new $18.5 million station in June after more than a year in temporary accommodation.