A beloved conservatory in Wellington’s botanic garden could face demolition if the city council decides that it cannot afford to repair it as it looks for ways to save money as part of its long-term plan amendment.
Begonia House, which opened in 1960, houses a range of tropical plants that would not survive outside in Wellington’s climate.
But the glass hothouse is not in a great state itself and needs nearly $18m worth of work.
Councillors have been told the building poses a safety hazard and that the glazing and heating needs upgrading. However, the building was earthquake strengthened about a decade ago.
Demolishing it and returning the land to something useful would cost $3m.
Wellington City councillor Iona Pannett is opposed to the building being knocked down.
“It will have significant impacts though on the nearly million people that visit the gardens every year, it’s got significant heritage value, and of course, people will lose their jobs.”
She said it was worthwhile to invest in the project for the future.
“It’s absolutely critical that we continue to educate people about the environment and that includes exotic plants.”
Pannett said Begonia House brings “enormous value” to the capital.
“This is one of the oldest public gardens in the country, established in 1869. People come here to picnic and recreate and walk their dogs, and also just to understand more about nature.”
The Victorian-inspired conservatory takes pride of place among the rose bushes at the garden.
A café was added to it in the 1980s. That could stay under the proposal, but its owner is in the dark as to what demolition would mean for his business.
Paul Lester said Begonia House has a lot of history.
“People got married here. They’ve had their weddings, they’ve had special events here.
“I’ve been here for 17-and-a-half years and grown the business as well and turned it into a destination café.”
He said it would be “devastating for everybody” if the building gets demolished.
People can have their say on the future of Begonia House before the council makes a final decision in June.
