Upgrades at Puke Ariki
Roof replacement – Puke Ariki Museum
Roof replacement work at Puke Ariki Museum starts on 17 August 2026 and is expected to continue until early 2027.
Visitors may notice construction noise, contractors working on site, and scaffolding in and around parts of the building. Puke Ariki Museum and Arborio restaurant remain open as usual.
FAQs
What work is being carried out at Puke Ariki?
The roof of Puke Ariki Museum is being replaced to ensure the building remains fit for purpose for our visitors, staff, collections, and stories.
When will the work take place?
The work will begin on Monday 17 August 2026 and is expected to continue through to early 2027.
Will Puke Ariki remain open during the works?
Yes. Puke Ariki will remain open throughout the project. Visitors can continue to access the museum, iSITE, library, and Taranaki Research Centre.
What disruption should visitors expect?
Visitors may notice contractors on site, scaffolding around parts of the building, and periods of construction noise. We will work to minimise disruption wherever possible.
Will access to the building change?
Access to some areas may change temporarily while work is underway. Clear signage will be in place to help visitors find entrances and move around safely.
Will any exhibits be affected?
At certain times, scaffolding may be installed inside the museum, which could affect access to some exhibits. We will work to minimise impacts and provide advance notice where possible.
Will museum events still go ahead?
Yes, we expect events to go ahead. We will work with contractors to minimise impacts, and any changes will be communicated directly to affected participants.
Will the library be affected?
The library will remain open and available for customers.
Will the Taranaki Research Centre remain open?
Yes. The Taranaki Research Centre will remain open during the project.
Is the building safe to visit during the works?
Yes. Health and safety is a top priority. Please follow temporary signage and staff instructions while onsite.
Will there be construction noise?
Some noise is expected, but we will work with contractors to minimise disruption.
How will visitors know about disruptions?
Updates will be shared through Puke Ariki communication channels, including the website, social media, and onsite signage.
Who can people contact if they have questions?
General public enquiries: enquiries@npdc.govt.nz
Media enquiries: media.enquiries@npdc.govt.nz
Library equipment upgrades – Puke Ariki Libraries
From 17 August to 28 August 2026, Puke Ariki and the Community Libraries will be installing new self-service library equipment.
All libraries will remain open during the upgrade, although customers may notice some minor disruption while equipment is being replaced. Library staff will be available to assist with borrowing and returning items throughout the installation period.
Planned installation order: Inglewood Library, Waitara Library and Urenui Library, Ōākura Library and Bell Block Library, Puke Ariki Library (including Taranaki Research Centre).
Installation dates and the rollout sequence may change. Updates will be provided before work begins at each library.