The MTG is one of Gemco’s most significant project to date. Napier City Council commissioned a multi-purpose structure to house the Hawke’s Bay Museum collection, its associated gallery, admin, and education spaces, and adjoining Century Theater.
This award-winning building is a bold statement of contemporary architecture. A prestigious redevelopment, designed to complement existing structures, and pay homage to the past. Located majestically on the Napier shoreline, it is a magnificent showcase for Hawke’s Bay’s heritage.
The project required an extensive redevelopment and simultaneous new build. The site was prepared with existing buildings removed or cleared.
Renovation works to modernise two remaining heritage listed buildings to exacting museum standards began, alongside the construction of the adjacent modern wing.
This 24 month project was completed during April 2013. The new structure showcases a successful blend of the 1930’s Louis Hay, 1960’s Guy Natusch building, and the Opus designed entrance gallery and education rooms. Having won numerous awards, including the 2014 Best Museum in the NZ Museum Awards, this surely is a jewel in the crown for Gemco.
“The new build with all its technology, with all these curves & domes. 80% of the subs were specialty jobs, it wasn’t just a normal build. The big glass façade that you see at the front, it stretched everybody’s capabilities to make that happen. There were just so many things that were happening in here that demanded quality. It’s a beautiful building alright.”
There it is, how it stands on the street, its got something special.