Gemco partnered with Hastings District Council to bring the ‘grand old lady’ the Hawke’s Bay Opera House Precinct back to life after forced closure due to the building being below earthquake code. Gemco dedicated over five years to the rebuild and revitalisation of this landmark community facility.
An extensive redevelopment of three existing interconnected buildings including an open-air Plaza, the 3 storey Opera House and the Municipal Assembly Building. The plaza was replaced with a new fully enclosed venue, the Opera House was earthquake strengthened from 14% NBS to 75% NBS and the Assembly building was strengthened, rebuilt and fitted out for multiple tenancies, community spaces, kitchens, retail, hospitality and council offices.
A new laneway connects the buildings and is used for open space for community events and hospitality.
Detail was important in the restoration of the civic buildings. One important aspect was the stunning mosaic painted ceiling in the opera house.
Toitoi now offers several hospitality offerings such as Cellar 495 and Craft & Social, that bring the precinct to life.
