Marton RSA and Citizens’ Memorial Hall Upgrade
A significant renovation has given one of Marton's most important community facilities a new lease on life, making it safer, more accessible and fit for future generations.
PROJECT COMPLETE
Completed: 2023
Investment: $1.3 million (including a $500,000 Provincial Growth Fund contribution)
Project Background
The Marton RSA & Citizens' Memorial Hall has served the community since it was built in the late 1950s, hosting everything from commemorations and community meetings to performances, celebrations and events.
Over time, much of the building had reached the point where significant upgrades were needed. While an extension was added in 1986, many of the building's core systems and facilities had seen little improvement since.
In 2021, Rangitīkei District Council secured a $500,000 Provincial Growth Fund grant from the Government as part of its COVID-19 recovery programme, helping fund a major renovation of the hall while supporting local employment during construction.
The project focused on modernising the building while preserving its role as an important community facility.
Asbestos was safely removed from the ceilings before new linings were installed throughout the hall. Electrical systems were upgraded, including a new switchboard, partial rewiring, modern lighting and improved Wi-Fi capability. New fire alarms, emergency lighting, fire-rated doors and an additional emergency exit significantly improved the building's safety and increased the maximum occupancy of the main hall.
The renovation also delivered a more comfortable and accessible experience for users. New heat pumps and a modern HVAC system provide efficient heating and cooling throughout the building, while the main bathrooms were renovated to improve accessibility. Interior painting, flooring upgrades and a resurfaced timber floor completed the transformation, alongside new accessible parking and other improvements that make the hall easier for everyone to use.
Work was carefully staged so the facility could continue operating where possible, helping minimise disruption to community groups and regular users.
What Changed?
- The hall has been modernised while retaining its role as one of Marton's key community gathering spaces.
- Asbestos has been safely removed, creating a healthier environment for future users.
- Modern electrical, fire safety and heating systems have improved the safety, comfort and reliability of the building.
- Accessible bathrooms, upgraded entrances and accessible parking have made the facility easier for everyone in the community to use.
- The additional emergency exit has increased the hall's maximum capacity, allowing it to accommodate larger events.
- Government funding supported the project while creating employment opportunities for local contractors during the COVID-19 recovery period.