Whanganui locals gathered outside Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery for an opening ceremony mihi this morning before the building was officially opened to the public.
Known as one of the country’s most important heritage buildings, the gallery closed in 2014 as the structure posed a serious risk in an earthquake.
The collection of more than 9000 items was also at risk of damage in the building, with no temperature or environmental controls in the basement.
The 105-year-old heritage building is now linked to a west-facing atrium with more exhibition space, storage capacity and a cafe. (Source: 1News)
“This is your gallery, this is for you… To our visitors, we welcome you today and anytime. It is wonderful to celebrate with you,” Whanganui Mayor Andrew Tripe said in his speech.
This was also the case in exhibition spaces, leading the gallery to struggle to attract some national and international touring collections.
The redevelopment has brought the nationally significant gallery into the 21st century with the heritage building strengthened and exhibition capacity doubled in a new wing.
A purpose-built storage facility has been constructed, along with office and event space and a cafe.
The redevelopment cost has increased over the project duration to more than $70 million, since contracts were awarded in 2019.
The gallery opened in 1919 and was funded by a bequest from Whanganui local Henry Sarjeant in 1912.
The sum — the equivalent of $70 million today — was left by Sarjeant to build and maintain a gallery “as a means of inspiration for ourselves and those who come after us”.
The gallery extension was named Te Pātaka o Tā Te Atawhai Archie John Taiaroa, in honour of the influential figure in Māoridom and leader for Whanganui, who died in 2010.
The space has been co-designed by architects and an artist group chosen by Te Rūnanga o Tūpoho, a collective of Māori hapū, sub-tribes, from the lower Whanganui River area.
Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith summarised the redevelopment in one word as “harmony,” acknowledging the new chapter for the gallery honouring both Henry Sarjeant and Tā Te Atawhai Archie John Taiaroa KNZM, connecting heritage with modern construction.
“It will be a remarkable example of contemporary and neoclassical architecture and will serve as a place for education, music, oratory, and celebration—a diverse and innovative space where everyone is welcome,” Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery Trust chairperson Nicola Williams said in a previous press release.
A range of exhibitions are on display inside the gallery.
The month-long festival Summer of Art also begins today, which included free events covering talks on the gallery’s history, performances and activities.