Performing arts centre to close temporarily

The Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre will be closed for about two weeks to enable temporary remedial work to be done ahead of earthquake strengthening.

Rotorua Lakes Council staff were working with organisers of events scheduled for the centre during this time to find alternative venues where possible, a statement on the council's website said.

A sign on the door today. Photo/Stephen Parker

"We've known the facility needed earthquake strengthening for some time and this work has been programmed into our planning," said council chief financial Officer Thomas Colle, who manages the team responsible for maintaining council-owned buildings.

"We've been working with consultants to understand exactly what needs to be done. A discussion with engineers yesterday highlighted a potential issue and it was decided we should take a cautious approach and get some immediate remedial works done, as a precaution, while we await a detailed seismic assessment.

"This is to ensure we can continue to use the facility until the earthquake strengthening can be done.

"The short-term closure means we can get the temporary remedial work done quickly and efficiently. We want to re-open as soon as possible."

The performing arts centre has previously been identified as requiring earthquake strengthening and that work has been included in the council's Long-Term Plan. Earthquake strengthening of the library building and the iSite, and detailed assessment of the museum, are already under way.

Councillors were advised of the temporary closure of the performing arts centre at this morning's Strategy, Policy & Finance Committee meeting.

Ticketmaster services have temporarily relocated to the Energy Events Centre and ticket holders will be contacted directly by Ticketmaster about any changes.