What was once a traditional library, has been transformed into a central space for all community members to meet, access library services, get inspired, innovate, create, discover and do. The redevelopment will provide a modern, safe, non-judgmental and flexible community space that residents can be proud of. We wanted our name and brand to reflect this.

The name Te Āhuru Mōwai was gifted by Ngāti Kauwhata to the building. The name means ‘our space that would become a safe haven for our community to be in, learn in, and to thrive in’.

A fitting compliment for the functions and aspirations of the Manawatū community in this space.

The building will have event and meeting spaces and programmes for lifelong learning opportunities (te taha hinengaro), social interaction and wellbeing (te taha whanau), physical wellbeing (te taha tinana), literacy (including digital literacy) opportunities and a safe place for the community to do their own thing.

To achieve this we have:

• Expanded the footprint of the existing building to create proper and adaptable meeting and community spaces (including a Makerspace).
• Upgraded the existing building (including all fittings, fixtures and equipment) to future proof the service.
• Introduced a leased café space into the community hub.
• Completed seismic work on the existing building.

The approved budget for the redevelopment is $12.5 million. Woah! That’s quite a lot, we hear you say. There’s no denying that.

But, we were been successful in receiving funding from the following organisations:

• New Zealand Community Trust: $150, 000
• Eastern and Central Community Trust: $200,000
• Central Energy Trust: $400, 000
• New Zealand Lotteriers: $400,000
• Three Waters Better Off Funding: $3.76 million