New Plymouth District Plan
Heritage Buildings and Items Review
Prepared by: Michael Kelly, 21 Myrtle Cres., Mt Cook, Wellington Russell Murray, R & D Architects, 7 Lytton Street, Wadestown, Wellington
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Table of Contents Introduction ...... 3 Recommended Changes to the Current Management Approach ...... 4 Criteria Used to Assess Heritage Buildings and Items ...... 7 Current criteria used to assess heritage buildings and items ...... 8 Recommended criteria used to assess heritage buildings and items ...... 10 Heritage Buildings and Items Assessments ...... 12 Post Office ...... 13 James Lane Rest Rooms and First Hospital Plaque ...... 17 State Fire Insurance Building ...... 21 Egmont Chambers ...... 25 Pantechnicon ...... 29 Victoria Building ...... 33 Former Salvation Army Citadel ...... 37 Chatsworth House ...... 41 YWCA/YMCA Community House ...... 45 Government Life Insurance Building ...... 49 Abram’s Building ...... 53 Bacon’s Building...... 57 The State Hotel ...... 60 Darby and Hannan Building ...... 65 Sole Bros Buildings ...... 68 Public Trust Building ...... 72 Red Post Building...... 76 Johnson’s Motors Building ...... 80 State Theatre ...... 83 Websters Building ...... 87 Barry’s Building ...... 91 Morey and Son Building ...... 94 Veale’s Building...... 97 Arizona Takeaways ...... 100 First Taranaki Club Building ...... 104 Kelsey’s Building ...... 108 St Paul’s Anglican Church, Urenui ...... 111 Urenui Abattoir ...... 115 Exchange Chambers ...... 118 Salvation Army Young Peoples Hall ...... 122 East End Building ...... 125 Boon Bros Building ...... 129 New Plymouth Friendly Societies Dispensary ...... 133 St Mary’s Church Peace Hall ...... 136 St Mary’s Community Centre ...... 140 War Memorial Hall, Library and Museum ...... 144 Heritage Buildings and Items Risk Assessments ...... 148 Heritage Character Area ...... 152 Contributory Buildings ...... 157
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Introduction
Overview
Historic heritage within the New Plymouth District includes heritage buildings and items, and waahi taonga/sites of significance to Maori and archaeological sites. District-wide, there are approximately 800 heritage buildings and items listed in the District Plan. These have been classified into three categories: A, B and C. In addition, 17 heritage character areas are identified.
The loss of heritage within the New Plymouth CBD became a key matter of focus for the review of the New Plymouth District Plan following the demolition of three buildings in 2016/17 that did not have rules to manage their demolition.
Given heritage buildings and items are a precious and finite resource and the public interest in how the Council is managing heritage within the New Plymouth CBD, the Council wishes to understand which Category B heritage buildings and items located in the New Plymouth CBD might be considered a priority for retention and/or stronger regulation in the District Plan. At the same time it wants to examine resilience issues, especially in relation to public safety and the economics of maintaining earthquake-prone buildings. This review also looks at the general approach for managing heritage buildings and items in the district.
Review Objectives We were contracted by the Council to carry out the following:
1. To confirm the criteria used to assess buildings and items;
2. To reassess Category B heritage buildings and items in the New Plymouth CBD using the existing inventory information as a starting point;
3. To assess other buildings and items in the district arising from public nominations;
4. To identify any general resilience issues; and
5. To make recommendations on any changes that need to be made to the current management approach.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 3 Recommended Changes to the Current Management Approach
Current District Plan Management
Of the approximately 800 category A, B and C heritage buildings and items listed in the District Plan, only those that are Category A are regulated by rules. Demolition or removal of a Category A heritage building or item requires resource consent as a non-complying activity.
The remaining Category B and C heritage buildings and items are managed though non-regulatory methods such as recognition and advice. There are no rules in place requiring resource consent for demolition or removal.
Of the 17 heritage character areas identified, seven are residential, five are commercial (including the New Plymouth Heritage Special Character Area) and five are bach settlements. These areas are not regulated.
Recommended Category Changes: Heritage Buildings and Items
The principal reasons for modifying the current District Plan regime are to improve protection and simplify management. At present the District Plan has three categories of listed heritage, only one of which, those listed ‘A’ are subject to regulation. We recommend that this be reduced to one well- founded list that is subject to regulation; the present rules do not protect any category of building below ‘A’ and there are clearly buildings of considerable value that are not presently listed as ‘A’. We have recommended that some buildings listed ‘B’ be elevated into this category and more could be in the future. Those buildings not listed can continue to be identified for their heritage value on an ‘information only’ basis and without rules to protect them. For practical purposes, this means that ranking would be dispensed with and a threshold instituted to determine if a building or item is significant enough to be listed and therefore to be protected by regulation.
Recommended Rule Changes: Heritage Buildings and Items
The Council currently has rules to address these activities: • OL34 – erection of buildings on the same site and with 30m of the Hen and Chickens (Cameron and Pendarves Streets); • OL35 – addition to, alteration, demolition or removal of, the interiors of buildings; • OL36 – alteration of or addition to the exterior of buildings or items; • OL37 – demolition or removal or buildings or items; • OL38 – repositioning of a heritage item; • OL38A – repositioning of a heritage item or part of a heritage item; and • OL39 – subdivision of land.
In general, these rules are fit for purpose but we recommend amending them as outlined below.
Current rule Recommendation OL 34 As this only relates to Pendarves Street, it can be left as is or amended the following ways: • Prepare criteria to establish the kind of new buildings suitable to be built in these locations. • With regard to items 1 and 4, expand the list of matters that should be considered when deciding whether to approve a consent to size, appearance, detailing, proximity, topography and other buildings.
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[Note: Leave out vegetation because it is vulnerable to change and therefore not be reliable as a permanent means of screening structures.]
Comment: The purpose of these changes is to ensure tighter control over the nature of any new building within the above area and thereby ensure that heritage values are maintained and better protected in the future. OL 35 Remove the fourth assessment criterion.
Comment: This refers to the duplication in criteria 2) and 4). OL 36 . Ensure that any assessment of a resource consent links to the statement of significance in the Council’s heritage inventory. . Require an applicant to get expert heritage advice if a proposal for work to a listed building requires a resource consent. (No conservation plan will be required, but any conservation plan that has been prepared will be taken into consideration when assessing the effects of the proposed work). . Prepare guidance for applicants on how to accommodate new work.
Comment: The above is required to ensure that better outcomes are obtained for heritage by ensuring it is given due importance and weighting in the resource consent process. OL 37 The demolition or removal of a heritage building or item shall be a non-complying activity (one list, with no ranking).
Comment: Retains status quo.
We also recommend adding new rules as follows:
New rule Comment New buildings, alterations or additions that may The values of heritage buildings or areas can be affect a listed place or area detrimentally affected by poorly-designed That alterations and/or additions to buildings adjoining buildings. This rule would give the immediately adjacent to a listed heritage Council the opportunity to ensure that such building, item or area are subject to a resource buildings respect the scale, character and consent (discretionary restricted) to ensure that heritage values of existing areas, buildings or they do not adversely affect the heritage values items. of the listed place. [Note: This may be an opportunity to apply a design guide.] Removal or demolition of a pre-1900 dwelling New Plymouth’s pool of pre-19th century houses Removal or demolition of a pre-1900 house will is rapidly diminishing and so should be given an require a resource consent (discretionary initial level of protection so that demolition as of restricted activity). right is no longer allowed. This will help the Council manage the long-term effects on this [Note: Any such consent should also resource. automatically require the notification of HNZPT.] Contributors to heritage area This activity level (controlled) acknowledges that That alterations and additions to buildings that contributors are not listed heritage buildings but contribute to the values of a heritage area but play an important role in the values of areas. are not individually listed in the District Plan are subject to a resource consent [controlled activity].
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 5 Signage Signs should respect the overall contribution that That the erection of signs on heritage buildings is a façade makes to a streetscape and not cover a permitted activity if the surface area of the sign any individual features it contains. is no more than one square metre, regardless of whether the sign is fixed directly on the building or is supported by a bracket. Signs are not allowed to be affixed to the main elevation of the building in a way that obscures architectural features. Any variation of this will be subject to a resource consent (discretionary restricted activity).
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Criteria Used to Assess Heritage Buildings and Items
The criteria used in the current District Plan to assess heritage buildings and items is outlined further below in this section. Following this is the criteria that we recommend the Council adopt.
Currently, each criterion is given a score out of five. A total score between 27 and 45 is Category A, between 22 and 26 is Category B, and between 16 and 21 is Category C.
Effectively, each building and item is being ranked against others. This was popular at the time the District Plan was notified, but it is our view that numerical scoring is no longer appropriate. This is because a building or item that scores very highly in one attribute and not in other attributes may not meet the threshold to be heritage listed and in turn could be modified or demolished.
We are of the opinion that the current criteria are overly long, repetitive and, in some cases, not organised coherently, i.e. the headings are not necessarily in the right place or the content is not really related to the headings. We have concluded from past experience that keeping the criteria relatively straightforward assists with effective heritage management practice. It also helps those using the criteria to concentrate on the core attributes of a place.
We see value in keeping some of the existing content and headings but also want to incorporate, in one form or another, the definition of 'historic heritage' in the RMA, i.e. archaeological, architectural, cultural, historic, scientific and technological. The current criteria cites wording from the Historic Places Act 1993.
Six headings (or attributes) are recommended as opposed to the current nine. The words used in the RMA definition of ‘historic heritage’ are covered by these. Between one and five sub-criteria per heading have been recommended to draw out relevant matters of significance. These sub-criteria are couched in statements that begin with the word 'whether', e.g. 'Whether the place has architectural merit or interest'. This approach is taken mainly from the current criteria, but again, it is not used consistently.
The criteria used to assess buildings and items for listing in District Plans generally do not focus on the condition of a building or item. If condition was assessed as a listing attribute there is the potential that an owner will deliberately refrain from maintaining their building and then seek a reassessment of its heritage values. This could lead to some heritage buildings being removed from the list so that they are no longer subject to rules. Effectively this is demolition by neglect, and it undermines the requirement for councils to identify historic heritage in their District Plans.
The new criteria uses a tick box system. If a building or item receives three or more ticks in total or if it receives two ticks for at least one attribute it meets the threshold to be considered for listing.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 7 Current criteria used to assess heritage buildings and items
Pre-requisite criterion: integrity When applying the following evaluation criteria it is necessary to establish the integrity of the historic fabric. Where modifications or additions detract significantly from cultural heritage value, the building, item or area may not be eligible for consideration. Buildings, items or areas that have very high historic significance may however be eligible for consideration if their early heritage fabric remains.
A. Historical i) The extent to which the place is associated with important or representative themes or aspects relating to the history of New Zealand or of the city, district or region and can teach us about the past.
ii) Whether the place is associated with historically important: • Events. • Persons, groups or organisations. • Ideas. • Movements. • Social patterns. • Activities. • Developments or advancements.
B. Importance to the community i) Whether the place is an important element in the community’s consciousness or makes a significant contribution to the uniqueness or identity of New Zealand or of the city, district or region.
ii) Whether the place makes a significant contribution to the uniqueness or identity of New Zealand or of the city, district or region.
iii) Whether the place is a physical landmark.
iv) The symbolic or commemorative value of the place.
C. Aesthetic appeal i) Whether the place has aesthetic appeal or conforms to a past or present sense of beauty.
D. Rarity i) Whether the place is rare or unique, was the first such place, or is the last or only such place in New Zealand, or in the city, district or region.
E. Architecture and use i) Whether the place has architectural merit or interest or is one of the best examples of its type in New Zealand, or in the city, district or region.
ii) Whether the architect, engineer, designer or builder has made a special contribution to their profession or trade or whether the place enlarges our understanding of their work.
iii) Whether the place represents innovation in design, construction or use.
iv) Whether the place belongs to important architectural periods or styles, including vernacular architecture, in the history of New Zealand or of the city, district or region.
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F. Technical i) The technical accomplishment or value of the place; or whether the place is well crafted or demonstrates an important application or high quality of building materials, methods and craft skills.
G. Setting i) The contribution of the setting of the place to its cultural heritage value; or the contribution of the place to the streetscape, townscape or landscape.
H. Context i) The extent to which the place forms part of a wider historical and cultural complex or landscape.
ii) Whether the place represents or belongs to an important group or collection of places which together have a coherence because of such factors as history, age, appearance, style, scale, materials, proximity or use.
I. Cultural heritage value for present and future generations i) Whether the place has aesthetic, archaeological, architectural, cultural, historical, educational, scientific, social, spiritual, technological, townscape, traditional or other special cultural value for present and future generations.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 9 Recommended criteria used to assess heritage buildings and items
Preamble Generally, for a place to be listed, it should be able to be demonstrated that it has heritage significance for one, some or many of these values: Archaeological, architectural, cultural, historic, scientific and technological [definition of historic heritage in the Resource Management Act 1991].
A. Historical i) Whether the place is associated with important or representative themes or aspects relating to the history of the city, district, region or New Zealand and can teach us about the past.
ii) Whether the architect, engineer, designer or builder has made a special contribution to their profession or trade and whether the place enlarges our understanding of their work.
iii) Whether the place is associated with historically important: • Events. • Persons, groups or organisations. • Ideas. • Movements. • Social patterns. • Activities. • Developments or advancements.
B. Importance to the community i) Whether the place is an important element in the community’s consciousness.
ii) Whether the place makes a significant contribution to the uniqueness or identity of the city, district, region or New Zealand.
iii) Whether the place is regarded as a physical landmark or has aesthetic appeal.
iv) Whether the place has symbolic or commemorative or other cultural value.
v) Whether the place is significant to tangata whenua.
C. Architecture and construction i) Whether the place has architectural merit or interest.
ii) Whether the place belongs to important architectural periods or styles or is a good example of vernacular architecture.
iii) Whether the place demonstrates innovation or technical accomplishment, through design, use of materials, method of construction or of craft skill.
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D. Setting (i) Whether the setting of the place contributes to its cultural heritage value.
(ii) Whether the place contributes to the streetscape, townscape or landscape.
(iii) Whether the place belongs to a group which has a coherence because of such factors as history, age, appearance, style, scale, materials, proximity or use.
E. Archaeology
(i) Whether the place can yield important information about the past history of the city, district, region or country through archaeological investigation.
F. Representativeness, rarity and integrity
(i) Whether the place is a good representative example of a particular class or type of place.
(ii) Whether the place is rare or unique, was the first such place, or is the only such place remaining in New Zealand, or in the city, district or region.
(iii) Whether the place retains a significant amount of original or early fabric, or fabric from an important period in the place’s history.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 11
Heritage Buildings and Items Assessments
The Council already holds a significant amount of information from assessments that were conducted as part of compiling the Proposed District Plan (1998). This information includes: • Heritage Study Non-Maori Sites (by Dinah Holman in conjunction with Boon Goldsmith Jackson); • New Plymouth CBD Heritage Study (by Chris Cochran and Di Stewart and Associates); and • Heritage Precinct Evaluation (by Dinah Holman).
To make sure the Council is meeting its obligations under the Resource Management Act 1991 this review needs to ensure that the Council has reliable, up to date research on which to base consideration of the heritage significance and value of a specific building or item.
The Council has asked us to assess a total of 30 heritage buildings within the proposed City Centre Zone that are not regulated. They are all Category B’s. There are no Category C’s. The Council has also asked us to assess a handful of other buildings throughout the district arising from public nominations, Council resolutions and the Council’s Heritage Strategy.
The buildings assessed for heritage status have been assessed using the recommended criteria. The recommended criteria was applied to all buildings assessed in the district, not just those in the New Plymouth central city. The assessments of those buildings that meet the threshold required to be considered heritage are contained within this section.
The Council intends to continue managing Category A heritage buildings and items through rules in the District Plan. Therefore reassessments of these were not carried out as part of this review.
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Post Office
Site ID 104 (Proposed DP), 772 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Post Office Address 21 Currie Street, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance This building is historically significant as the tenth and last government-built Post Office in New Plymouth, the culmination of over a century of built postal infrastructure in the city. It is a reminder of the central importance that the Post Office once had in New Zealand life through its roles in post, telecommunications and banking. The continued presence of New Zealand Post, along with the ANZ Bank, in the building maintains that link with its original purpose. It is constructed of first-class materials and its fabric makes a modest acknowledgement of local and national history and of tangata whenua at the entrance and in the main public space on the ground floor. Aside from the modern alterations to the verandah, it remains much as it was when first built. It has modest architectural value as a functional example of a large 1950s public building. Its size makes it prominent in the streetscape, although its quiet and undemonstrative style does not particularly stand out amongst its modern neighbours.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Pt Sec 873, New Plymouth NT District Plan Item/ Map No. - Heritage New Zealand List Not Listed
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 13 Construction Information Date of Construction 1959 (formal opening) Principal Materials Reinforced concrete and textured plaster Construction Professionals R W Syme (architect); W Williamson Construction Co. of Christchurch (builder)
History Opened in 1959, this was the 10th post office built in New Plymouth. It took over 20 years of planning and construction to bring it to fruition.
Postal services began in New Plymouth in a whare on Brougham Street in 1842. Mail was initially moved overland (by foot and then coach), from 1858 by coastal steamer and then by rail from 1878. In the 20th century, both rail and road services carried mail. When the telegraph and, later, telephone services were developed in the late 19th century, they were managed by the post office. All this activity made it one of the country’s largest government departments and one of its biggest employers. Like rail infrastructure, post offices were ubiquitous. By the time the New Plymouth Post Office opened in 1959, the country had 1,677 post offices.
Planning for the current building began in 1935, after a prominent site on the corner of Currie and Ariki Streets was purchased from John Medley and Charles Mills, who may have been executors for the Shaw estate, in 1928.1 A newspaper report put the price of the sale at the very significant sum of £10,000.2 The property had been occupied by the historic Shaw family home (a pre- fabricated house of Baltic pine, transported from the UK and erected in 18413) and a warehouse.4 It was closer to the centre of town than the existing post office, which was on the intersection of Devon Street West and Robe Street, although some residents objected to the new location on the grounds that it was too far from the tram route, in an unattractive location (railway yards, timber yards, gasworks etc.) and that street widening would be required.5 Petitions were even prepared and the argument raged for many years. In 1938, local architects Messenger, Taylor and Wolfe produced a design for a large new building in a Moderne style. However, World War II and then post-war financial exigencies intervened and it was not until 1954 that the project was on again in earnest, the controversies mostly, but not entirely, set behind it by the actions of time and urban change.
The new design was prepared by Raymond Syme (1905-1975), a local architect who was then a partner in the firm of Taylor and Syme. Syme came from a family of architects in New Plymouth. He graduated from the school of architecture at Auckland University in 1935 and went on to form the practice of Griffiths & Syme. He fought in World War II and when he returned he went into practice with William Taylor. In 1957 Syme went into sole practice. Among the buildings he helped design were the War Memorial Hall, Library and Museum, the Westown Post Office, the gates to Pukekura Park and the offices of the Taranaki Automobile Association.6
Following the preparation of the plans, it took another two years before the foundation stone was laid by Tom Shand, then Postmaster General (on 2 August 1956). The contractors were W. Williamson Construction Ltd of Christchurch. The final cost was approximately £400,000. The building was opened with great ceremony on 14 May 1959 by Postmaster General Michael Moohan. For this notable occasion, Currie Street was closed between 2 and 5 pm and a crowd of several thousand was in attendance to witness the formalities, chaired by Mayor Alfred Honnor.7
1 CT TN125/168, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 2 Press, 18 October 1935 p.20 3 New Zealand Herald, 1 July 1938 4 Taranaki Daily News, 17 October 1935 5 Historical information contained on PO-NPW2122-1, 23/1/2, History – New Plymouth, 1921-1966, Archives New Zealand 6 Alington, Margaret 1988, Goodly Stones and Timbers: A History of St. Mary's Church, New Plymouth, St Mary’s Church, New Plymouth [need page refs] 7 Tullet, J.S. 1981, An Industrious Heart; A History of New Plymouth, New Plymouth City Council p.171
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Mention was made of the difficulties that had been experienced in keeping the building’s basement dry; the matter was still not resolved at the time of its opening.8
There were two particular features of the building. One was a series of mural panels on the front elevation designed by Raymond Syme. Utilising a technique of fusing colour into glass that could not – at that time – be undertaken in New Zealand, the panels illustrate the development of communications viz. ‘pigeon post, mail coach, railways, aircraft, ships and radio-telephony’.9 Even at this point the panels were described as ‘subdued’ in colour, certainly by comparison with the Coat of Arms, made in Christchurch but now gone from the building.10 The second was a ceiling of sand-blasted glass panels in the banking chamber. Designed by Auckland artist James Turkington, the panels show the story of how Maui tamed the sun using ropes.11 The panels were originally back-lit by a perspex skylight. It is now backlit by artificial lighting. In 1996 the work was saved after protests by the New Plymouth Heritage Group and the artist Don Driver. They convinced the ANZ Bank not to cover it up, although it is still not entirely visible from the banking chamber.
The Post Office occupied the whole of the building for 28 years before being disestablished. In 1985 the Labour government undertook a review of the Post Office’s fundamental structure. The review recommended separating the Post Office’s three core businesses – post, bank and telecommunications – into state-owned corporations. Legislation was passed and these were duly formed in 1 April 1987. Two years later, the overseeing department was abolished and three state- owned enterprises (SOEs) were formed out of the former corporations – New Zealand Post, Postbank and Telecom New Zealand. The whole process was tumultuous and the three businesses going their separate ways and rationalising and downsizing had a considerable impact on the former Post Office properties, many of which were eventually sold into private ownership. Postbank was purchased by the ANZ Bank in 1987 and was fully absorbed into ANZ by the late 1990s. Telecom became a publicly traded company, which evolved into today’s Spark and Chorus. Of the three SOEs only NZ Post now remains under government control.
NZ Post still operates from the building, as does ANZ, which today leases the majority of the ground floor, so the use of the building still has an historical connection with the NZPO. The building was sold into private hands in 1993.12 In 2002, Kiwibank was formed as a subsidiary of NZ Post and its operations are run out of NZ Post’s portion of the ground floor. In 2008, Quest Apartments signed a 20-year lease to take over the upper two floors for use as serviced apartments. In 2016, the building was put on the market.13 The property (composed of four sections) that encompasses the building also includes the land to the east, as far as Haydon Lane, which is occupied by a single story retail building and roof-top car park. This structure is excluded from the proposed listing.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description The former Post Office is a stout and plain rectilinear modernist building located in the centre of the CBD. It is a quiet and architecturally undemonstrative structure despite its substantial size that confers prominence in the immediate streetscape. As it sits in the lower part of the city it does not stand out in wider views. The form of the building is essentially a large cuboid, four storeys high with flat roof. The plan encloses a large central light-well, square in plan, at the bottom of which is the expansive etched glass decorative ceiling of the banking chamber, so that only the ground floor uses the entire footprint of the site, the upper three storeys (originally office and administrative spaces) all being cut out for and having an outlook to the light-well.
8 Ibid. pp.171-172 9 See PO-NPW2122-1, 23/1/2, History – New Plymouth, 1921-1966 10 Ibid. 11 Ibid. 12 CT TN195/95, LINZ 13 ‘New Plymouth's multi-million dollar old post office building for sale’ in www.stuff.co.nz/business/81085412/New-Plymouths-multi-million-dollar-old-post-office-building-for-sale [retrieved 11 August 2017]
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 15 The elevations are each composed symmetrically in identical and quite minimalist detail. The overall effect is refined upon close inspection but rather austere from a distance. Good and highly durable materials have been used throughout. The walls are heavy plastered concrete; they are relieved with regular vertical stacks of bronze windows interleaved with concrete spandrel panels, all recessed into the depth of the walls and the stacks separated with slender pilasters. The primary elevation faces Currie Street. This has a long cantilevered verandah with ungainly modern raised sections at each of the two main entrances above the entry steps and ramps. This elevation has a prominent central bay that projects slightly from the main wall face above the verandah and contains three columns of narrow windows; the spandrel panels here feature classic 1950s mural elements illustrating the progress of communications technology. The two side elevations, to Gill Street and a service alley are more or less identical, with the window columns reaching close to the ground. Aside from the etched glass ceiling, there is little original fabric evident inside the main public spaces of the building today.
Assessment Historical This building stands as a reminder of the importance of the post office as a key component of every New Zealand city and town. The lengthy efforts made to plan and build a new post office in New Plymouth also show how much civic pride was bound up in the provision of a facility that would match the city’s aspirations. The building has a near 60 year history of operation and it retains its connection with its original purpose through the vestigial remains of the Post Office (in the form of NZ Post and ANZ Bank) that still operate from the building. Importance to Community The building was an important public building in its heyday and it remains well known to residents through its combined Post and ANZ Bank functions. Architecture & Construction This is a good, albeit particularly austere, example of a Modernist-inspired building of the early 1950s. The design is minimalist in its approach and although the building is made of very good materials that are each used to reasonable effect, it is nevertheless rather plain and undistinguished in the streetscape. It is enlivened by the mural panels on the main elevation and the etched glass ceiling over the former banking chamber. Setting and Context – Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, This building has a high level of integrity, including integrity retaining its original public art. It is a good example of a modest but well-designed post war public building. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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James Lane Rest Rooms and First Hospital Plaque
Site ID 105 (Proposed DP), 819 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name James Lane Rest Rooms & First Hospital Plaque Address 3 Ariki Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This is an important central New Plymouth building. Looked after with pride and open seven days a week, the restrooms still serves the same purposes it always has since its opening in 1935. It is a reminder of the kinds of facilities that were scarce at the time (although now commonplace) that were required to improve the lives of women in the 20th century. The building is highly regarded by the community and has survived proposed closures or demolitions in the past. It has a prominent site beside the Huatoki Stream. Aside from modern aluminium windows, the building remains very much as it was when it opened, and it has a high degree of physical authenticity. It has architectural value for its elegant design, in the manner of a high quality residence, and it has a nicely and authentically appointed interior. Its domestic character helps it stand out from the neighbouring commercial buildings.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 3 DP 9589 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 17 Construction Information Date of Construction 1936 Principal Materials Concrete, with plaster finish. Corrugated roofing. Construction Professionals Griffiths & Stephenson (architect); Boon Bros. (builder)
History During the 1930s, as part of a range of significant social changes, New Zealand’s towns and cities began building women’s restrooms. These were intended to be more than just conveniences. These were places where women could nurse babies, have a cup of tea and something to eat or simply have a break in their trip to town. They were fitted out with comfortable furniture and were, mostly, kept in a pristine condition. Most particularly, they were women only; men could not enter. The New Plymouth District Council commissioned a new women’s restroom in 1935. The land was actually purchased by the Council from hotel keeper Frederick Wallis in 1936.14 The building was intended to replace old public toilets in Courtenay Street. The architects were Griffiths and Stephenson and the principal contractor was Boon Bros. The budgeted cost was £1,836, although a final estimate put the figure at £2,060.15 The building was opened on 20 May 1936. During construction, the architects suggested that the eastern piers of the building should be built on top of the walls of an old septic tank to save some construction cost. This meant the building was built 30cm west of the originally designated site, a move approved by the building’s engineer C. Clarke.16 Caretaker’s ‘accommodation’ was also included in the building.17
The site was an historic one; the first public hospital (a pre-fabricated building) in New Plymouth was erected there in 1841 and in 1842 Bishop George Selwyn conducted the first Christian service in the fledgling settlement. Both of these events are commemorated by a plaque on the site that was organised by New Plymouth historian, ethnographer and surveyor W.H. Skinner. Upon its opening the building was given a ringing endorsement by the Taranaki Daily News. ‘Inside is a happy blend of comfort and utility. The finish is plaster-tinted in soft, soothing colours and the harmony of the decorations completed by warm heart of rimu furnishings. A fireplace is provided but large windows facing the north ensure that sunshine will give comfortable warmth even on winter days. A private room is set aside for mothers and babies, and general facilities are available.’18
The building, which contains toilets, a lounge and a baby room, has operated largely the same way all its life. It has always been attended (seven days a week) and it is still busy, not only with young mothers, but with women of all ages. A visitors’ book allows users to comment on the place; a common theme over the years has been the homely, spotless interior.
The building has been the target of attempts to remove it. In 1995, then mayoral candidate Lynn Bublitz called for its removal. The year 2005 was a pivotal one for the building, when an upgrade of the Huatoki Plaza was planned and the restrooms’ future came under discussion. Removal or demolition was mooted but a significant public outcry, backed up by a petition organised by the New Plymouth Women’s Centre,19 helped ensure that the final decision was to retain the building in its original location. That same year, the restroom received recognition an award for the best public restrooms in New Zealand.
In a profile of the restroom in 2005, the true breadth of the roles fulfilled by the three attendants came to light. They help mothers by watching children while others are taken to the toilet, heat babies' bottles and baby food and provide a listening ear for those who need to talk. They're an information
14 CT TN75/206, Land Information New Zealand 15 Taranaki Herald, 8 October 1935 16 Taranaki Herald, 8 October 1935 17 Taranaki Daily News, 21 May 1936 18 Taranaki Daily News, 21 May 1936 19 Taranaki Daily News, 18 August 2005
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centre for tourists, provide first aid treatment and can refer people on to social services and counselling. These women have their fingers on the pulse of New Plymouth. Based in the heart of the city they know what's going on. They've helped nab shoplifters, earned the respect of the town's homeless, called ambulances, provided needle and thread when a skirt or pair of trousers needs emergency treatment - and saved a stray cat that had set up home under the floorboards.20
In the period after its future was secured, the building received a new paint job. Prior to this, the building’s original timber windows were, regrettably, replaced in aluminium.
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description Designed to provide a welcoming and calm retreat amidst the bustle of the CBD, the restrooms has the scale and character of a domestic building, and is styled as a sophisticated bungalow. It is a modestly sized and elegantly detailed and finished structure that remains much as is was when it was first opened, despite some incongruous modern changes,. In plan, it is composed as a single rectangular form, covered with a low-pitched hipped roof that has a central projecting gabled bay facing Ariki Street. It is a single storey high; the walls are plastered to a smooth finish, with incised mouldings around the entry arch and moulded brackets at the gable end; above this, large moulded timber brackets project out to support the eave. The windows are more or less symmetrically disposed around the building. They have an elegant tall proportion with low sills in the main areas to admit light, and high sills in the toilet areas, for privacy. The building is labelled with relief lettering in the main gable, and also on the east side of the building. The main entry is via an open porch on the east (there is a modern accessible ramp discretely fitted on the right). The porch lets on to the main front room and a corridor giving access to the other spaces, including nursing rooms and toilets (and the former caretaker’s rooms). The interior of the building is quite sumptuous. Fitted out very much in the domestic style of the day, it appears little changed from its original condition. Key decorative elements include battened Arctic-pattern fibrous plaster ceilings and moulded cornices, a heavy picture rail, moulded plaster brackets to a seating bay and the hallway entrance, polished rimu skirtings, interior doors and architraves and built in banquette seating and an original tiled fireplace. Carpets and drapes, and most of the furniture, are modern. The men’s toilet facility is accessed on the west side of the building via a modern screened ramp that clashes with the character of the building. This is a single room with modern finishes and toilet partitions; aside from the fibrous plaster ceiling and cornice, the decoration is without character. The exterior was originally finished in a buff-coloured plaster but has been over-painted for many years. The present colour scheme is striking, but has little sympathy with the intent of the building’s original design. The original windows were simple casements with lead-light fanlight sashes above. The modern aluminium windows strongly detract from the character of the building. The building is situated in open space by the Huatoki Stream and can be appreciated in the round. It has gardened areas on the north and east sides. The commemorative plaque for the first New Plymouth hospital is situated in the garden at the north-east corner.
Assessment Historical The continuous use of the women’s restrooms on this site is historically significant, not only for its unchanged use since 1935 but also the manner of its operation, which has always relied on full-time attendance during opening hours, seven days a week. The building of restrooms was just one example of the provision of social services and facilities that improved the lives of
20 Hoskin, Sorrel 2005, ‘The little loo block flushed with success’, Taranaki Stories database, Puke Ariki
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 19 New Zealand women in the 20th century. The wider historical importance of the site is exemplified by the plaque that commemorates key events that took place there soon after the arrival of the city’s first Pakeha settlers. Importance to Community This building is an institution in New Plymouth and attracts a rare level of social esteem. It has retained its relevance and purpose throughout its history despite the many social changes that have taken place since it was built; it remains as well-used as ever. The public has intervened to prevent the building’s removal at least once and it regularly receives media publicity. Architecture & Construction The building is elegantly designed and finished, and it has an authentically-appointed interior. The domestic- scale architecture is particularly complementary to its purpose. Setting and Context The restrooms has a domestic style and character that stands in strong contrast to the surrounding commercial buildings, as was its original design intent. It has a prominent site beside the Huatoki Stream. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, This building has a particularly high level of physical integrity integrity, including the interior. It is an excellent example of a purpose-designed women’s restrooms of the time. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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State Fire Insurance Building
Site ID 106 (Proposed DP), 1105 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Former State Fire Insurance Building Address 42 Egmont Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance State Insurance was an important government agency with a deliberately strong regional presence, as exemplified by this building. The company’s role in driving down insurance costs gained it strong support in the first half of the 20th century and this office would have been busy in its heyday. The building also has historical value for its role as a hub for other government departments for a considerable period. The building is made of first-class materials, including the bronze giant-order columns and window joinery and, externally, it remains very much as it was when it was first built. Accordingly it retains a high degree of physical authenticity. It has architectural significance for its accomplished use of a grand Neo-Classical style. The building makes a strong positive contribution to the local streetscape, and is part of two important groups of heritage buildings – the group of 1920s buildings that arose after the 1916 fire in this block, and the wider group of heritage buildings on Devon Street.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 2 DP 4067 District Plan Item/ Map No. Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 21 Construction Information Date of Construction 1922 Principal Materials Concrete, cast bronze window joinery and columns Construction Professionals T H Bates (architect); J J Julian & Sons Ltd (builder)
History This building, constructed to house the State Fire Insurance Department, was officially opened on 13 June 1924 by the Minister of Labour George Anderson, standing in for an ill Heaton Rhodes, minister in charge of the department. The building was designed by New Plymouth architect Thomas Bates and built by local firm of Julian and Son. The land was acquired by the State Fire Insurance Department from Everard Gilmour and Kate Clarke in 1921.21
The State Fire Insurance Office was created by the Liberal government in 1903 and it opened for business in 1905. Formed as a response to the costly private insurance industry, State Fire Insurance offered lower premiums and forced its competitors to respond in kind. The company grew quickly and by 1920 it had the largest share of the general insurance market in New Zealand. By then it had begun to invest in its own buildings rather than rent office space. The early 1920s were a period of rapid building construction; New Plymouth was opened the day after Palmerston North’s offices.22
During his speech at the opening of the building, George Anderson noted that, as with the Palmerston North building, provision had been made to add two more stories to the building.23 This has never eventuated.
As was common for purpose-built government buildings in regional centres, particularly those with additional capacity, the State Fire Insurance building accommodated other government agencies, adding more during the 1930s. By 1939 the Valuation Department, Audit Department and Department of Agriculture shared the building with State Fire, along with private tenants Wilson and Sheat, solicitors and wine merchants Nancarrow Ltd.24 This largely remained the arrangement through the 1950s, with various departments (including Government Life Insurance Department) and private occupants coming and going. By this time, State Fire had become the State Fire and Accident Office. It was later renamed State Insurance.
State Insurance was sold to Norwich Union Holdings in 1990, but by this time the building had been sold (in 1981) to Westwill Company (later Westwill Holdings). It retained the building until 1994, when it was sold to Chapman and Oulsnam Holdings Ltd, the parent company of engineering and architectural firm Chapman Oulsnam Speirs Ltd. founded in 1981.25 They gave the building a distinctive appearance by painting ‘architects’ and ‘engineers’ on either of the Corinthian columns that flank the building’s entrance (now replaced by new signage of ‘chamber’ and ‘house’). The firm occupied the building for a considerable period before it was taken over by the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce in 2016.26 The building was purchased in 2015 by Ellerton Kelly Trustees Limited.27 State Insurance, now a part of Insurance Australia Group, closed most of its branch offices in 2014 and no longer has a physical presence in New Plymouth.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
21 CT TN100/172, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 22 Taranaki Herald, 16 June 1924 23 Ibid. 24 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1939 25 CT TN109/207, LINZ 26 Ibid. 1946-1957 27 CT TN109/207, LINZ
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Description The former State Fire Insurance building is a comparatively small but very well formed example of a high-quality inter-war building constructed for an important government institution. It is a modest two storeys in height and has a flat roof. The main elevation faces east to Egmont Street, and is wholly authentic in appearance except for the unfortunate replacement of the front doors with modern aluminium joinery, and garish signage applied to the bronze columns. The building is formally designed in a revivalist Neo-Classical style, much in the manner of an 18th century version of a small Graeco-Roman temple. This would have been intended to create a sense of permanence and reliability and convey a sense of historical continuity and architectural connection to European precedents – appropriate, if somewhat disingenuous, connotations given the fire that cleared its site and the relative infancy of the government institution the building was constructed for. The building is symmetrically composed and divided into base, middle, and top in proper Classical form. The base plinth is elevated above street level, perforated on either side by large bronze ventilation grilles. A pair of bronze giant-order Ionic columns rises from the base plinth to the entablature at the second storey, flanking the central main entry. The ground floor is elevated, and the incongruous modern aluminium entry doors are recessed into the façade. There is an abstracted keystone above the doors, surmounted by a window at the first floor. The walls on either side of the entry bay are heavily rusticated, with inset rectilinear bronze windows. The upper windows have a projecting sill. Above this is a broad entablature that has short returns at either side of the elevation and a bold projecting cornice. The parapet atop this has a raised central section, with a level moulded coping and a small and stylised horizontal fasces moulding beneath. The north elevation faces an open car-park; it was designed with the expectation of another building on the adjacent site and is blind but for a small window at the back; the light-well is recessed in to the centre of the elevation. This side is enlivened by a contemporary mural. There is a comparable light-well on the southern side of the building. Inside there is a stairwell with cast iron balusters and newels and marble dado panelling. The building is a key member of a group of important 1910s and 1920s heritage buildings on this block, including the Victoria building (1925), the adjacent Egmont Chambers (1925), the former AMP building on the corner (1916), and the Opera House behind (1925), all resulting from the major conflagration of 1916 that all but levelled the block.
Assessment Historical State Insurance (including its earlier incarnations) was an important government institution in the 20th century, competing in the insurance market and offering an alternative to private insurers. Its establishment led to the construction of a lot of buildings in regional centres like New Plymouth, with a strong street presence. These buildings had another significant purpose in that they also provided accommodation for other government departments. This building served State Insurance for about 70 years, a significant period during which many local residents would have had cause to visit the building. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction This building is capably designed in a grand yet elegant Neo Classical revival style that belies its compact form and comparatively small scale. It is made of first-class materials, including the giant-order bronze columns.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 23 Setting and Context The building is part of an important group of interesting heritage buildings that collectively make a strong positive contribution to the character and heritage value of the area. The adjacent open space helps it stand out in the streetscape. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, The main elevation of this building is almost unchanged integrity from when it first opened. It is a rare example of the use of giant-order elements in the city. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Egmont Chambers
Site ID 107 (Proposed DP), 1106 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Egmont Chambers Address 46 Egmont Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This building has been occupied continuously by commercial and professional users since it was first opened, but its history is otherwise mostly prosaic. Aside from the shop-front the building is largely as it was when it was first built, and so retains considerable authenticity. It has some architectural significance, for its capable Stripped Classical design. It makes a positive contribution to the local streetscape, and is part of two important groups of heritage buildings – the group of 1920s buildings that arose after the 1916 fire in this block, and the wider group of heritage buildings on Devon Street.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 4689 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1925 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals Messenger, Griffiths & Taylor (architects); Albert Brown (builder)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 25 History The three-storey, reinforced concrete Egmont Chambers was built in 1925. It replaced a timber building of the same name that burned down in the conflagration that claimed most of the buildings on this block in 1916.
The original Egmont Chambers had been designed by John Maisey for William D. Webster in 1902.28 Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor designed its replacement in 1926. A building permit was issued to developer and contractor, and owner of the land, Albert Brown, on 7 December 1925 for shops and offices, at an estimated cost of £2,500.29 While is not clear if the Egmont Chambers had that title from the outset it was certainly known by that name by the late 1930s.
The names of early tenants are not easy to establish. By 1939, an eclectic list of occupants included three Christian Scientists, the Egmont Commercial School, Athol Robertson, a company secretary, Alice Hutchison, who ran a library of some description, the Taranaki Hotels Employees Union and its secretary, William Campbell, Thomas Hickson, seller of knitted goods, and E. Whitewell, who was involved in a taxi business.30 By 1946, the Okato and Puniho Co-operative Dairy Co. and R Gillington, a hairdresser, were in the building. William Campbell was secretary to at least six unions by 1952.
By 1957, the building’s ground floor had Gillington’s hairdressers, Medley and Henderson, a typewriter shop, and the Government Tourist Agency. The first floor contained the offices of the Security and General Insurance Co. Ltd, and Lumley and Sons, insurance brokers. The second floor held O’Riordan’s Land Agency and William Campbell’s successor, W.E. Fitzsimons.31 That year, at 3.20 p.m on Saturday 18 May, smoke was seen coming from the rear of the building. Two fire engines and fire police attended the fire. Deputy Fire Chief Leonard Goodman lost his life fighting the fire in the basement.
The seat of the fire was in the basement of the building which housed a considerable amount of stock and at least 10 gallons of white spirit for the firm Medley and Henderson. Equipped with respirators, Deputy Fire Chief Leonard James Goodman and other firefighters descended several times in dense smoke to extinguish the fire. After several attempts it was discovered that Goodman had been overcome by the fumes. Valiant attempts were made to rescue the Deputy Fire Chief without success and his body was eventually removed from the building at 5.40 p.m. Finally the fire was extinguished by flooding the basement.32
A Taranaki Herald photograph of the fire in Egmont Chambers. (Taranaki Herald, 18 May 1957)
28 Taranaki Herald, 16 April 1902, p.2 29 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors’ Registers, Puke Ariki 30 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1939 31 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1957 32 ‘Egmont Chambers Fire 18 May 1957’, http://ketenewplymouth.peoplesnetworknz.info/taranaki_fires/topics/show/1999-egmont-chambers-fire-18-may- 1957 [retrieved 25 August 2017]
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Albert Brown retained ownership of the building until 1951, when he sold it to the North Island Motor Union (NIMU) Insurance Company, which eventually ended up as part of AMI. In 1972, Aquarius Holdings Ltd bought the building. It in turn sold the building to the Fabian Brokerage and Investment Company in 1978. Hawera accountants Clarence Latta and Hendrik Mansvelt bought the building in 1982.33 Clarence Latta’s share was passed to Mansvelt upon the former’s death in 2011. The building is presently owned by Hendrik Mansvelt and Juliana Mansvelt.34 There has been an engraving business on the ground floor for over four decades. A recent tenant was Law West, now relocated to Powderham Street.
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description This modestly-scaled and compact three-storey concrete building shows an interesting and capable use of a formal Stripped Classical style. Stripped Classicism was in effect a bridging style between the heady decoration and Neo-Classical mores of the 19th century and the resolutely undecorated buildings of the new Modern architecture that began taking firm hold in the 1920s.
The site is very constrained. The building butts into the fly tower of the Opera House at the back; to the left is an access way, and the former State Fire Insurance building, is to the right. It has a retail space at ground level, currently occupied by an engraver, and two storeys of office space above, terminating at a flat roof. The staircase at the back of the building is illuminated by a large skylight. Egmont Chambers has a pleasingly-proportioned and well balanced composition and the form and detail, in combination with a westerly orientation, ensures a lively play of light and shadow over the façade. The main elevation is symmetrical with a pronounced horizontal emphasis; it is arranged in three bays with the central bay a third wider than the side bays. The composition is a pared back version of superimposed Classical motifs contained in a large-scale frame that rises to the main cornice and parapet. Above the verandah, the first floor has windows set in a stylised post-and- beam (trabeated) frame with a high entablature and projecting cornice with rectangular corbel blocks at the grid lines. Above this, the second floor springs from the cornice, with shallow pilasters meeting into a second entablature which is a sub-part of the entablature of the main frame. This is in turn capped with a substantial cornice with stylised console brackets, with a low shallow-pitched gabled pediment above.
The shop-fronts below the verandah are wholly modern. However, the stayed verandah is likely to be the original (it has a fibrous plaster soffit, and the central portions of the stays have been replaced, indicating age).
The building is an interesting element of an important group of heritage buildings on this side of Egmont Street that includes the former AMP building at the Devon Street corner, Egmont Chambers, the former State Fire Insurance building, the Victoria building on King Street, Hooker’s building and the first Taranaki Club building. This group collectively illustrate the streetscape as it was in the late 1920s and has a strong sense of historic authenticity, an impression further enhanced by the relationship to the extensive collection of older commercial buildings at this end of Devon Street East; this all stands in stark contrast to the characterless modern buildings nearby.
Assessment Historical This building has some significance for its history of commercial use by a wide variety of occupants. The building has some interest for its association with trade union officials William Campbell and W.E. Fitzsimmons. Importance to Community –
33 CT TN115/23, Land Information New Zealand 34 Ibid.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 27 Architecture & Construction Egmont Chambers is a capably-designed example of an inter-war commercial building in a Stripped Classical style. Setting and Context The building is part of an important group of heritage buildings that collectively make a strong positive contribution to the character and heritage value of the area. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, The main elevation remains largely as it was when first integrity constructed. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Pantechnicon
Site ID 108 (Proposed DP), 1109 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name The Pantechnicon Address 42 King Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance The Pantechnicon, which is one of the city’s older extant masonry buildings, has historic significance for its remarkably diverse history of occupation since its construction in 1904, from agency depot to boxing venue and gym to workshop and now a hairdressers. The highly authentic condition of the principal façade is extremely rare in New Plymouth. The building has architectural value in its interesting rhythmic composition and simple but effective detailing. There is some technological value in its masonry construction. It plays an important role in the local streetscape, linking visually to nearby heritage buildings in King Street, Egmont Street and Queen Street.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 3 DP 18362 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1904 Principal Materials Brick and plaster; timber roof frame. Construction Professionals James Sanderson (architect); J W Tong (builder)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 29 History This building was constructed in 1904 by Stanley Shaw, a land agent and auctioneer, for Robert Todd, who described himself as a customs, shipping and express forwarding agent. The designer was most likely the well known local architect James Sanderson; the builder was J.W. Tong, who had his yard in King Street in the early 1900s.35
Todd arrived in New Plymouth via Wellington from England in 1893. He was a prominent mason and church warden of St Mary’s Church, New Plymouth.36 His business was the agent for the New Zealand Carrying Company, of Auckland, J. M. Heywood and Co., Christchurch, the Colonial Carrying Company of Wellington and Crust and Crust, Dunedin.37 Todd also had a coal and firewood yard in Queen Street and offices in Currie Street. He rather flamboyantly named his new King Street building the Pantechnicon,38 the name chosen by Todd for a bazaar in Belgrave Square, London where a huge variety of artistic work was sold (and which was later converted into a furniture warehouse). That building, constructed in 1830 and rebuilt in 1874, survives to this day. 39
The Taranaki Herald commented on Todd’s choice of building name that ‘it is rather a hard word to pronounce but almost five minutes’ practice will enable the average person to articulate it with perfect confidence.’40 Todd used the building it to store goods in transit and items such as lime, pipes and coal.41 Todd also offered general storage in ‘dry brick stores’, possibly in the basement of the Pantechnicon, or possibly in outbuildings on the site. However, by the end of the following year, Todd appears to have gone farming and Shaw was looking for a new tenant, although he kept the building’s name.42
The Pantechnicon is slightly obscured in this c1910 image of King Street and, to the rear, Egmont Street. (PHO2001-301, Puke Ariki
35 Taranaki Herald, 14 March 1904, p.3. The architect’s name was given as Saunderson, but it is assumed to have been James Sanderson. 36 Cyclopedia Company Limited 1908, The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Taranaki, Hawke's Bay & Wellington Provincial Districts], Christchurch p.90 37 Ibid. 38 ‘Pantechnicon’ is most commonly used today to describe a large transport vehicle. 39 ‘Pantechnicon’, http://www.britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/101223569-pantechnicon-knightsbridge-and-belgravia- ward#.WZ9M6OlLeUk [retrieved 25 August 2017] 40 Taranaki Herald, 14 March 1904, p.3 41 Ibid. 42 Taranaki Herald, 24 December 1907, p.1
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The new lessee is not presently known but the building was frequently used by a local boxing association for fight nights from early in the building’s history. On one occasion this led to an unusual invitation; ‘All Maoris attending the Land Court are cordially invited to be present.’43 In 1913, A J Langham leased the building for classes in ‘boxing, physical culture etc.’. It did not last long; Charles Johnson had a cabinet making business in the building by 1915 and he remained there until the early 1920s.44
The building was then briefly used as a warehouse until it was taken over in the 1930s by the New Plymouth branch of the Odlin Timber and Hardware Co., which had its head office in Wellington and a network of branches in the North Island. Arnold White, a cabinetmaker, bought the building in the late 1930s and set up in business. By the mid-1940s White had diversified into motor trimming and vehicle upholstery.45 White’s business occupied the business for decades, outlasting White’s death in 1972. It was still in the building in the mid-1990s, although White’s company was dissolved in 1992.
The property remained owned by White’s widow Marjory until 2003, when it was sold to Christopher Berry. It was purchased by Neison Properties, owners of a number of adjacent properties, in 2006. From 2008 it was owned by On King Investments, but taken back by Neison Properties in a mortgagee sale in 2011.46 It is currently occupied by a hairdressing salon, HQ Studio.
Reference Sources Refer footnotes.
Description The Pantechnicon is an elegantly proportioned single-storey masonry building with an imposing frontage to King Street. It still appears much as it was when it was first constructed in 1904. The main elevation is asymmetric but rhythmically composed in four bays: the brick side walls at either end are heavily rusticated, and between these is an orderly sequence of alternating shop windows and entry doors, separated by rusticated pilasters that rise up to a simple entablature. This is capped with a prominent cornice with console brackets, and a shallow flat parapet projects above. It appears a central decorative scroll panel was originally set on top of the parapet. The shop windows are substantial 4-light affairs set off the ground by spandrel panels and divided by slender timber glazing bars; the entry is through a pair of panelled doors with a fanlight above; the matching door on the right of the elevation, which presumably gives access to the under-croft of the building, similarly has a fanlight window.
The building occupies about half of its site; there is a broad driveway on the west side that leads to a service yard at the rear that joins into the yards of the two neighbouring buildings. The front section of the building is an orderly rectangular brick construction (with a loading door on the west side) capped with a simple gabled roof, however the rear section is a complex of lean-to addenda that cascade down the slope; the lower parts also apparently offering access to the under-croft. These appear to be from a variety of eras, although all parts have recently been re-clad with modern zincalume sheeting to give a uniformity of appearance. The eastern brick wall extends nearly to the end of this complex of lean-tos, marking the extent of the former stables building on the adjoining site.
The Pantechnicon is part of a group of old and interesting buildings in this street, including the nearby Public Trust building, the Egmont Business Centre at the other corner and the Victoria building situated across the road.
43 Taranaki Herald, 13 October 1906, p.4 44 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1910-1921 45 Ibid., 1910-1921 46 CT TNK1/500, Land Information New Zealand
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 31 Assessment Historical Although this building owes its colourful name to its first occupant, Robert Todd, it is associated mostly with cabinetmaker (and later, upholsterer) Arnold Wright. The building also has historic significance for its remarkably eclectic range of uses – offices, storage, boxing venue and gym, workshop and hairdressers. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction This modest building has a refined architectural quality and an interesting rhythmic composition. The present colour scheme enhances the design of the building. Setting and Context The building makes a strong positive contribution to the character and heritage value of the local streetscape. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, This building is notable both for the rarity of its intact integrity main façade and the relative overall integrity of the retail space. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Victoria Building
Site ID 109 (Proposed DP), 1110 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Victoria Building Address 37 King Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This early example of Modernist architecture is historically important for its connection with its owner and designer Thomas Bates, one of New Plymouth’s most influential and successful architects. The building is also significant for the 20-year occupancy (1932-1952) of the North Taranaki Radio Society and its volunteer station 2YB, Taranaki’s first radio station, and for the later ownership and occupation of the Victoria Insurance Company, an Australasian insurance company founded in 1849. Its early Modernist design gives it high architectural significance and its distinctive style and scale means it stands out in the local streetscape; the building is also technically interesting for its composite construction. Aside from the modern fence at the rooftop, the building remains much as it was when first built and it has a high degree of physical authenticity. The building is part of an important group of 1920s structures in the immediate area, including others designed by Bates.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 33 Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 4476 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1925-1926 Principal Materials In-situ concrete, with a beam system and steel frame Construction Professionals T H Bates (architect)
History Thomas Bates (1873-1954) was one of New Plymouth’s most successful and significant architects in the first half of the 20th century. In 1925 he designed and supervised the construction of his own building in King Street, named Empire Building.
Bates arrived in New Plymouth in 1916, at the age of 43. He was born at the end of 1873 in Adelaide, South Australia, where he married Emma Watson. They had six children – four daughters and two sons. He trained as a draughtsman at the local School of Mines before moving to Britain to work in 1900 and then on to San Francisco to help with the reconstruction after the 1906 earthquake. He arrived in Auckland in 1908 and initially worked on the construction of the Auckland Grammar main building.47
In early 1916, Bates was given the a contract to supervise the construction of the auditorium of Everybody's Theatre (now the Mayfair) in Devon Street for the Auckland architects Grierson and Aimer, and moved to New Plymouth for the duration. He then took on a comparable role for Wellington architect Frederick de Jersey Clere for the AMP Building on Devon Street (now Peggy Gordon’s). Sensing an opportunity, Bates set up in new Plymouth on his own account. He found regular work in a period when there was much construction taking place and he soon became the city’s most sought-after architect. His practice worked on a broad range of commissions, from commercial work to houses and dairy factories amongst others.
The year of Bates’ arrival in New Plymouth, a serious conflagration destroyed a large number of buildings – mostly timber – in the block between Devon, King, Queen and Egmont Street. It was in this block that Bates ended up with a significant number of commissions, including the Opera House, and where he built his own building. Bates enjoyed a profitable late career, still receiving commissions in his 70s. His last work was in 1952-53 – the refurbishment of the Criterion Hotel. He died in early 1954, aged 81, in a plane crash at Singapore Airport.48
In 1924 the land now occupied by the Victoria Building (as it is currently known) was owned by State Fire Insurance in 1924 as part of a wider parcel of land that it acquired in the aftermath of the 1916 fire. That year it sold part of the property fronting King Street and alongside a right of way to Thomas Bates.49 It would seem that the building was not completed until 1926. The name of the contractor is not currently known, nor is Bates’ inspiration for the Empire name.
Bates’ office was the constant presence in the building from its opening, but there were many other commercial tenants over the building’s early life. Occupants included Edward Garner, an accountant, tourist agency Thomas Cook and Son, and the office of Sun Insurance.50 An important occupant was, from 1932, the North Taranaki Radio Society, which was formed by local enthusiasts
47 Information on Bates’ life drawn from Nana, Christine 2004, ‘Biography of Thomas Herbert Bates (1873-1954)’, Kete New Plymouth, Puke Ariki http://ketenewplymouth.peoplesnetworknz.info/t_h_bates_buildings/topics/show/703-biography-of-t-h-bates [retrieved 24 August 2017] 48 Nana op. cit. 49 CT TN106/210, Land Information New Zealand )LINZ) 50 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1931
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to bring radio to the people of Taranaki. The society ran the 2YB station entirely voluntarily, with the financial support of the community. The station remained in the Victoria Building until 1952, when it was closed down and replaced by the commercial station 2XP, later Radio Taranaki, which moved to new premises.51
In 1950, Bates sold the building to the Victoria Insurance Company,52 an Australian-based insurance entity founded in 1849 as the Victoria Fire and Marine Insurance Company. Its head office was in Melbourne. Street directories indicate that Bates kept his office in the building until his death in 1954.53 Victoria Insurance renamed the building, commissioning the large relief lettering on the main elevation. It has kept that name ever since, although Victoria Insurance was taken over by New Zealand Insurance in 1962.
The building was owned by a series of businesses after Victoria Insurance sold the building to Billings Holdings Ltd in 1971. It sold the building to Pukeatua Holdings Ltd, which in turn sold the building to Alisham Holdings Ltd in 1990.54 In 2005, the building was bought by a quartet of individuals – prominent local architect Murali Bhaskar (of Boon Goldsmith Bhaskar Brebner Team Architecture), Madhu Bhaskar, Thomas George and Eloise Pollard. In 2011, Murali Bhaskar, who lives in the building, proposed to add two storeys to its top, a move that aroused some local controversy.55 To this point the development project has not been pursued, although a timber balustrade was recently added to the top of the building. In 2012, the building owners were given a grant of $40,000 from the New Plymouth District Council’s heritage protection fund to assist with maintenance and seismic upgrading.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description The work of Thomas Bates is that of a capable architect fluent in a broad spectrum of architectural styles and building types. It is particularly interesting that within the context of his work that his own building may have been the least decorative, and (deliberately or otherwise) perhaps the most forward-looking, of his career. In stylistic terms, the Victoria building can be considered more or less as an early Modernist building, albeit with a vestigial trace of earlier decorative styles evident in its main elevation. The building is a slender rectilinear reinforced concrete slab, a distinctive narrow and tall four- storey structure facing King Street that is finished with a flat roof. It is constructed hard to its boundaries, clearly with the expectation of neighbours to be built right up to the east and south sides in time. It is a minimalistic construction, deliberately unornamented and sparely detailed, with plan and elevations arranged following the building’s structural grid and finished with plastered planar wall surfaces. The lowest floor is half-submerged below the street, dropping down on the north side to the prevailing ground level at Egmont Street. The main elevation is subtly modelled: a regular grid of windows and spandrel panels comprised of two even side bays flanking a slightly wider central bay and separated with slender columns is enclosed by a broad perimeter picture frame with a raised outer edge; the various planes making for an interesting play of light and shadow on the otherwise flat surfaces. The main entry is through a pair of panelled and studded doors (a distinctly Victorian element that may as well have come from an earlier era) set to the left-hand side of the elevation and sheltered under a cantilevered canopy. The line of the canopy divides the base of the building from the top section; to the right of the door, two low windows admit light into the lower ground floor. The west and south elevations are planar surfaces with a smooth plaster finish. The west elevation has a regular grid of steel windows, and a large vehicle access door towards the southern end. The south elevation is blind except for a solitary leadlight window in the middle of the elevation,
51 ‘2YB Kept The Home First Burning’, Taranaki Daily News, 16 November 1996 52 CT TN109/153, LINZ 53 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1955 54 CT TN109/153, LINZ 55 Taranaki Daily News, 10 October 2013
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 35 presumably to a stairwell. A single-storey lean-to abuts this wall at the car park level; this appears to be an ablutions block associated with the State Fire Insurance building. The east elevation presently faces an open car park accessed from Egmont Street, where it touches corners with the former State Fire Insurance building. The building’s primary structural grid, a 3 x 4 array of columns and beams, is exposed on this elevation; there is a solitary modern window in the centre of the top floor level (blocked off from the inside) and three closed-in openings at the ground level for windows – the wall is otherwise blind but is graced with a lively large-scale mural. The building has a flat roof; a lift machine room and overrun projects up at the south side; a new palisade-type timber fence has recently been put up around the parapet, presumably to make a safe outdoor area out of the roof space. Surrounded by open space, the Victoria building stands out in the local streetscape. It is particularly distinctive for its height and unusually slender proportions and for its almost ostentatious lack of overt architectural decoration, and it stands in particular contrast to its more traditionally ornamented neighbours.
Assessment Historical The building has historic importance for its long association with its owner and architect, Thomas Bates, who occupied it as his work premises until his death. It was in New Plymouth that Bates achieved success and prominence as an architect, leaving his mark on the city with a diverse and extensive portfolio of buildings. The building has importance as an early example of the sort of Modernist building that would later be ubiquitous. More remarkably, Bates was 52 when he designed the building, no longer a young man. The use of the building for 20 years by the North Taranaki Radio Society’s 2YB – the volunteer forerunner of 2XP, later 2ZP and then Radio Taranaki – is also notable as it was the city’s first radio station. Another important occupant, and the provider of the building’s name, was Victoria Insurance Company, a successful and long established Australian-based insurance firm that was later bought out by NZI. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The very spare style of the building may represent the arrival and first example of Modernist architecture in Taranaki. There are few parallels in New Zealand for this early use of the style. Setting and Context The building stands out in the local streetscape, partly due to the open space around it, partly due to its distinctive height and proportion, and partly due to its overt lack of decoration and Modernist demeanour, in contrast to its older, lower and more decorated neighbours. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, This may be the first Modernist-influenced building in integrity Taranaki; its design presages the sorts of buildings that became common decades later. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Former Salvation Army Citadel
Site ID 110 (Proposed DP), 1121 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Former Salvation Army Citadel Address 38 Powderham Street, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance This building is historically significant for its 50 years of association with the Salvation Army, whose connection with this corner site goes back to prior to the turn of the 20th century. The Salvation Army has been an important religious and social organisation since its arrival in the country in 1883. Together with the former Salvation Army Young People’s Hall behind it forms an important group of buildings used by the organisation. The building’s association with the Taranaki Arts Festival Trust is creating a new layer of history. Constructed in conjunction with the adjacent Young People’s Hall and designed by the same architects, the building remains much as it was when it was first opened, and it has a high level of authenticity. It has architectural interest in its use of a formal Stripped Classical style, and its prominent corner site and elevated position gives it importance in the local streetscape. It makes a strong positive contribution to the heritage values of the wider area. Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 1156 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1927 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete and timber Construction Professionals Gray Young Morton & Young (architects); Boon Bros. (builder)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 37 History This building was erected in 1927 on the corner of Brougham and Powderham Street, the third citadel built by the Salvation Army in New Plymouth. The Salvation Army commenced operations in New Zealand in 1883 and arrived in New Plymouth the following year.
Initially the organisation rented W. Courtney’s auction room56 before taking over an old Masonic hall at the foot of Marsland Hill.57 In 1898, it opened its first purpose-built ‘barracks’ on the corner of Brougham and Powderham Streets by converting an existing timber building that it purchased off Mary and William Webster. The roof was raised, a stage built and seats installed to hold 300 persons.58 There is a reference in J S Tullet’s history of New Plymouth to a second citadel – in timber – being erected in 1923 and then burning down in 1926, possibly as a result of arson. No other evidence for this building has been located thus far; no reference was made to it at the opening of the 1927 building.
The permit for the present building was issued on 11 March 1927. By then the Salvation Army had purchased the property directly behind (possibly in 191759). The as yet unfinished Citadel was formally opened by senior commissioner James Hay of Australia on 4 June 1927.60 At the time the main space had room for 320. The Salvation Army also built a Young Peoples’ Hall directly behind the Citadel in the same year. The architects for both buildings were the well-known Wellington firm of Gray Young, Morton and Young. The builder was Boon Bros. Ltd. and the total cost of the land and buildings was £4,886.61 Along with the hall the citadel also had a well hidden second storey that had rooms for Bible classes and bandsmen, the latter containing ‘instrument lockers and [a] music cupboard’.62
The citadel was used for the Salvation Army’s principal ceremonial venue for the next 50 years. At some point in the mid-1970s the Army decided to sell the building – a photograph from 1976 shows the For Sale sign on the side of the building.63 When the sale took place is not certain – it took some time to sell – but by 1983 it was in the hands by Noremac Properties Ltd., which still owns the building.64
Citadel in 1976, with a ‘For Sale’ sign near the main entrance. (Photo by Ron Lambert, Ref 35mm collection Folder 73-41, Puke Ariki)
56 Hawera & Normanby Star, 8 February 1884, p.2 57 Taranaki Herald, 2 July 1891, p.15 58 Taranaki Herald, 16 July 1898, p.2 59 CT TN34/236, Land Information New Zealand. The CT is very indistinct so this date is only a best guess. 60 Ibid. 61 Taranaki Daily News, 6 June 1927, p.10 62 Ibid. 63 Salvation Army Citadel 1976, Puke Ariki Ref 35mm collection Folder 73-41 (Photo by Ron Lambert) 64 CTs TNF4/1154 & J1/787, LINZ
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In the period since its sale the Citadel has had a range of uses. It was originally a café and then became a furniture store (La Paz). It is now the headquarters of the Taranaki Arts Festival Trust (TAFT). TAFT, formed in 1991, is a charitable trust that manages some of New Plymouth’s key events: the biennial arts festival, the Taranaki Garden Festival and WOMAD.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description This is a simply designed but well-proportioned and elegantly detailed building. Perched on the corner of Powderham and Brougham Streets, it occupies the entirety of its site; the former Salvation Army Young People’s Hall is situated directly behind it, and a rather lower retail building is on the site to the north. The building is designed in a restrained Stripped Classical manner. The plan is a plain rectangular form, covered with a gabled roof. The main elevation faces Brougham Street. This elevation is devised as a stylised small Greek temple. It has four simplified pilasters that rise to a plain entablature (engraved with the building’s name) forming a schematic post and beam (trabeated) frame; above this is a large triangular pediment with heavy mouldings and a central oculus window glazed with a lead-light sash; a pair of urns (rare survivors in New Plymouth) are set at either corner. The wall panels between the pilasters contain, on either side, a single large steel window (currently covered with promotional banners) with a moulded panel at the head, and in the centre, the main entry is recessed under a squared arch with the Salvation Army’s motif in relief above. Four modern display lights distract from the otherwise clean lines of the building. The easterly orientation makes for an interesting play of light and shadow over the main elevation.
The side elevation to Powderham Street is similarly symmetrical. This is divided in five bays – the middle three bays have tall windows with semi-circular heads surrounded by modest architraves and stylised keystones; these are flanked by slender square-headed windows in the outer bays. Above the windows, a frieze panel with roundels sits below a strong cornice; a small parapet above this conceals the roof gutters. The building shares a party wall with the adjacent Young People’s Hall.
The interior is described as a single space spanned by five timber trusses, with tongue, groove and vee timber linings to the ceiling and a polished timber floor.
The building is prominently sited on the Powderham Street corner. It makes a particularly interesting pair with the conjoined Salvation Army Young People’s Hall at the west, and is one of a number of important heritage buildings in the nearby area associated with social services from the early decades of the 20th century (others include the former Chatsworth House and the YWCA/YMCA building further to the west).
Assessment Historical The Salvation Army has been a force in New Zealand religious and social life since its arrival in 1883. This building, its first purpose-built Citadel in New Plymouth, is historically important as the spiritual home of the Army in the city for nearly half a century. The building’s location has further significance as the Army had been based there since 1898. Importance to Community Although it has been a considerable time since the Salvation Army last occupied this building, there will be still be Salvationists with a connection to this building and its neighbour, the Young People’s Hall. Architecture & Construction The building is a competent example of Stripped Classicism applied to enliven a very simple structure.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 39 Setting and Context The former Citadel is prominently sited on the Powderham/Brougham Street corner, and forms half of the group of two purpose-built heritage buildings erected for the Salvation Army side by side on Powderham Street. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, The building appears to be largely intact on the exterior. integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Chatsworth House
Site ID 111 (Proposed DP), 1122 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Chatsworth House (former Clarke Memorial Hostel) Address 62 Powderham Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This building has considerable heritage significance for its 34 years of use as a YWCA hostel and for its association with the legacy of former New Plymouth mayor John Clarke, after whom the building was named in 1921. The building has had a diverse range of uses over its life – hotel, hostel, printery and offices – all of which have contributed to the city’s history to one extent or another. The building has a bold and distinctive principal façade, of an unusually domestic character, that makes a particular contribution to the historic character of the streetscape along Powderham Street.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 2 DP 9515 District Plan Item/ Map No. Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1916 Principal Materials Textured stucco, in-situ concrete Construction Professionals Howell Brothers (builders and architects)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 41 History This building was erected in 1916 as a private hotel. It replaced an existing boarding house on the same site that had been destroyed by fire earlier that year.
The story of this building began with the Windsor Castle Hotel, built in timber on Bulteel Street some time in the 1850s. It was shifted to Powderham Street in 1892 by auctioneer and commission agent William Courtney,65 who had previously acted as an agent in the sale of the hotel in 1882.66 It was purchased or leased by a Mrs Beeson that year and refurbished for use as a hostel, named Chatsworth House. The establishment opened in November 1892 with 9 bedrooms.
The establishment went through a few hands in the intervening years before it was bought by William and Caroline Howell in 1901,67 with the latter named as the proprietor. William Howell died during their ownership of the property. Caroline Howell was still the proprietor when the building was burned to the ground on 7 February 1916. At the time of the fire, the boarding house had expanded to 32 rooms.68 Her initial decision was to sell the property,69 but by the middle of the year she had changed her mind. A building permit was issued on 24 July 24 1916 for a new boarding house, at an estimated cost of £2,500.70
The new building was designed and built by Howell Bros., a construction firm from Whanganui owned and run by Caroline Howell’s sons. The other tradesmen were: Reid and Italian, plasterers, Smart Brothers, plumbers, Wade and Lovegrove, painters, Leighton and Son, furnishers, Brown and Co., joiners.71 The new building was built of concrete and had 21 bedrooms and four double rooms. It was renamed the Chatsworth Private Hotel and in this use it catered for rural visitors, travelling salesmen and holiday-makers.
The new hotel remained under Caroline Howell’s management for the following four years. On 11 November 1920, New Plymouth mayor James Clarke died in a plane crash. A popular young mayor (he was only 41 when he died), he had strongly supported the proposal to open a hostel for homeless young women in New Plymouth. In the wake of his death, fundraising began in earnest to realise his vision. It was decided to engage the Young Women’s Christian Association to run the hostel and the building that was eventually chosen for use was the Chatsworth Private Hotel. The building was purchased from Caroline Howell, who was presumably ready to sell. The building was officially reopened for the YWCA on 28 October 1921 by Viscountess Florence Jellicoe,72 the wife of the Governor-General, Viscount Jellicoe. It was renamed the Clarke Memorial Hostel, although ‘YWCA’ was often inserted into the title.
As the local YWCA, the hostel was immediately in demand. By November 1921, 20 girls were in the building and it enjoyed steady use over the ensuing years. In 1929, the YWCA built and managed a purpose-built structure known as ‘Community House’73 a short distance away at 74 Powderham Street. It combined with the YMCA and extended the building in 1934, adding the front elevation visible today.
65 Taranaki Herald, 24 November 1892, p.2 66 Taranaki Herald, 16 October 1882, p.3 67 Taranaki Daily News, 13 January 1902, p.2 68 Taranaki Daily News, 8 February 1916, p.4 69 Taranaki Herald, 10 March 1916, p.17 70 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors’ Registers, Puke Ariki 71 Taranaki Daily News, 23 December 1916, p.7 72 Evening Post, 4 October 1921, p.9 73 Evening Post, 21 December 1935, p.18
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This undated image shows Chatsworth House when it was still in use as a YWCA hostel. (LN5310, Puke Ariki)
Over time, the name Clarke Memorial Hostel seems to have fallen out of use. It was certainly not the name in popular use in 1955, when the YWCA sold the building to Avery Press Ltd. The company operated their business from the building for 11 years. The scalloped concrete fence to the street boundary was demolished during Avery’s time. The building was sold to local firm Brookside Holdings Ltd in early1966. According to a contemporary newspaper account, the building was to be modernised internally and leased out to a variety of commercial and professional occupants.74 At this time, the building consisted of the rectangular main building and one out- building at the rear.
Brookside Holdings sold the property to Pamela Burn and Mary Worsley in 1982. They owned and occupied the building until 1996. The building was then purchased by Townscape Developments Ltd in 1996 and then a year later was on-sold to D4 Developments Ltd.75 The building has been used as office accommodation in recent decades. During this time a large extension was built on the rear. In 1997, the house was allocated $3,700 from the Heritage Protection Fund for painting, fire alarm rating and interior renovations.76 In more recent times, the main entrance arrangement on the front elevation has been replaced with modern aluminium joinery. The building is presently occupied by the Safe Taranaki Families Trust - Tu Tama Wahine o Taranaki.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description The former Clarke Memorial Hostel is a commercial building of domestic scale and character, which makes it an unusual structure within the CBD area. It is part of an interesting historic streetscape on this section of Powderham Street, which also includes the YWCA Community House (with which this building has an historic link) and the Salvation Army Citadel. The building comprises two closely- linked blocks: the two-storeyed original section facing the street, and a tall single-storey addendum at the back, facing the rear car-park.
The original section of the building is covered with a shallow-pitched roof with both gabled and hipped sections, and there are two-storeyed verandahs on both the north and south sides. The design is fundamentally domestic, but with a hint of 1920s Spanish Mission influence in its form and use of materials. The walls are roughcast plaster and the external joinery is timber – casement windows with
74 Taranaki Herald, 25 January 1966 75 A3/421, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 76 See Resource Consent 22070, New Plymouth District Council
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 43 multi-light fanlights at the front and double-hung windows at the rear, with modern aluminium joinery at the main entry. The main elevation is particularly distinctive and stands out from its near neighbours. It is symmetrically composed with two gable-ended bays book-ending grand elliptically- arched verandah spaces at both levels– a single arch at the ground floor, with the main entry behind and a pair of arches at the first floor. The modern paint and graphics applied to the eastern bay break up the outline of the building and make it difficult to clearly understand its overall form.
The modern rear section is built hard to the main structure; it is a plain rectilinear box, covered with a flat roof that is without architectural interest.
The use of concrete construction, presumably a direct reaction to the fiery demise of its predecessor, adds some technical interest.
Assessment: Historical This building is historically significant in several ways. It is connected with Chatsworth House, a boarding house converted from an old hotel that had been shifted on to the site in 1892 and later destroyed by fire in 1916. The present building is the replacement Chatsworth House. The most historically important connection is with the YWCA, which renamed the building Clarke Memorial Hostel, after a popular New Plymouth mayor, and occupied it from 1921 to 1955. During this time, the building was lived in by many young women. Avery Press was a relatively well known occupant in the 1950s and 60s. Importance to Community The association with former New Plymouth mayor John Clarke is of great symbolic importance, even if that connection is no longer very widely known. Architecture & Construction As a commercial building that is very much domestic in scale and character and has a very distinctive appearance, this building is something of an architectural curiosity in the CBD area. Setting and Context This building is located a short distance to the east of the purpose-built YWCA/YMCA ‘Community House’, completed on Powderham Street in 1929. These two buildings have an obvious historical and physical connection, even though they are no longer used for their original purposes. The building itself is a landmark on a street that has changed much in recent decades. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness The building’s main facade is most unusual in its form & integrity and detailing in the CBD area, where there are no parallels; it can be considered a rare building for that reason. The building’s exterior has a relatively high level of integrity, despite the modern changes to the entrance and the addition to the rear. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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YWCA/YMCA Community House
Site ID 112 (Proposed DP), 1124 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name YWCA/YMCA Community House Address 74 Powderham Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This building is historically important for its direct association with both the YWCA and YMCA, internationally significant organisations. It was used by YWCA for over 75 years, a long portion of that time shared with the YMCA. This may be the first time anywhere in the world that the two organisations combined to build and use a facility. There is an important historic and physical link with the YWCA’s former hostel a short distance away on Powderham Street. This is an architecturally interesting building, of two distinct halves and architectural styles, that retains a high level of physical integrity and authenticity. The elegantly-designed Art Deco front section, designed by the highly capable local architect TH Bates, complements the earlier and rather plainer hall. It stands out in the local streetscape for its distinctive architecture. It is part of an important group of heritage buildings in the vicinity that are related by social purpose and era, including Chatsworth House, the former Salvation Army Young People’s Hall, and the former Salvation Army Citadel.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 5018 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 45 Construction Information Date of Construction 1929 Principal Materials Plastered concrete; brick; timber roof frame. Construction Professionals Hall: J T Julian & Sons (builder) Offices: T H Bates (architect)
History The first meeting of the New Plymouth Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) was held on 20 May 1921. Established in Great Britain in 1855, the YWCA opened its first association in New Zealand in Dunedin in 1878. The YWCA had been invited to New Plymouth to open a hostel for young women in the city, to be named after James Clarke, the Mayor of New Plymouth, who died in a plane crash in November 1920. The Clarke Memorial Hostel opened on 28 October 1921 in the former Chatsworth private hotel at 74 Powderham Street.
The YWCA’s next building project was a hall. Land on Powderham Street, a short distance to the east of the hostel, was purchased in 192877 and a permit for the construction of the building was issued on 19 February 1929. The builder was J T Julian and Sons; the architect is not known. The building was set back from the road, likely behind an existing building, as mention was later made of ‘an old building which had been something of an eyesore’.78 The new building was opened that year by the General Secretary of the YWCA, Ethel Law. It was a large structure, with a blind wall facing Powderham Street, and housed a hall, stage, dressing rooms, kitchen and clubroom.79
In 1933, the YWCA amalgamated with the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA). To cater for the increased demand, significant alterations and additions were planned for the building. These were part-funded by public subscriptions. A gymnasium was installed in the basement and the gap between the hall and street infilled with a new block containing the main entry, a meeting room and offices. Designed by prominent New Plymouth architect Thomas Bates, the additions were opened on 14 August 1934 by the president of the New Plymouth YWCA’s board of directors, Mrs A. Alexander. (‘Alexander Hall’, the main space inside the building, was most likely named for her.80) The contractor is not presently known.
Known as the ‘Community House’ and dubbed a ‘venture in applied religion and social service’, the combined facility was considered to be the first venture of its kind by the two organisations anywhere in the world.81 It offered a place for socialising, support and physical and spiritual education for young men and women. The combined arrangement lasted until 1967, when the YMCA separated from the YWCA and moved to a new facility in Liardet Street. The latter retained the building until 2006, using it as its social and administrative headquarters.
The property was sold to the New Plymouth-based company Tommo Two Still Ltd. in 2006.82 The building was occupied by Waves, an organisation dedicated to supporting the health and well being of young people. It is currently occupied by Mountain Air Studios and Alchemy Yoga.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
77 CT TN85/193, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 78 Taranaki Daily News, 15 August 1934 79 Ibid. 80 Evening Post, 21 December 1935, p.18 81 Taranaki Daily News, 15 August 1934 82 CT TN119/62, LINZ
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Description This interesting Art Deco building is prominent in views along Powderham Street. The fabric of the building clearly illustrates the history of its construction. The main body, containing the hall at the top level and the gymnasium at the lower level was built first. It is a high two-storeyed structure that becomes partially sunk into the ground as the land rises up towards Powderham Street, and it is constructed with a concrete frame with brick infill panels. The front section is also two storeys high, but due to the lie of the land it rises a further storey above the hall. This section is constructed in reinforced concrete. T H Bates produced an elegant frontage for the building in a restrained but carefully considered Art Deco style. Rising two storeys off the street, it is symmetrically composed about the centre in three equal bays, divided by double-height reeded pilasters with stylised Ionic capitals; the entablature/parapet has a further stylised Ionic capital at either end, and the building’s name worked in relief in the centre. The windows are recessed back and are all identical in design, excepting that the ground floor windows are slightly shorter and the central top window slightly wider – these are 9-light units with opening sashes at the top and opening lead-light sashes at the bottom. The spandrel panels that divide the upper and lower windows have the YWCA motif in relief on the left and the YMCA motif on the right, separated from the lower windows by a narrow reeded panel. The main entry is at the centre, recessed into the building via a stylised rectangular archway, the top of which is obscured by a business sign. This has an elegant pair of reeded double doors facing the street, and a second pair of glazed doors inside to form a weather porch. The balance of the building is utilitarian in design, although neatly arranged. The frame and infill construction of the main body of the hall and gymnasium is clearly visible underneath the recent paint. Windows near the level of Powderham street admit high-level light into the gymnasium below. The hall is lit with large windows on the east side of the building, one window per bay. To the north beyond the end of the hall, a two-storey lean-to structure presents an array of double- hung windows to the north and there is a curious cantilevered utility space, perhaps a toilet, projecting beyond the masonry at the first floor. Photos dating from the sale of the building in 2006 show an interior that appeared at the time to be largely original. The main entry has a geometric tile floor, polished rimu panelling (extending up the stair to the first floor) and matching glazed doors, and a battened fibrous plaster ceiling. The first floor meeting space had a variety of modern partitioning, but the original ceiling. The hall is an attractive high space with a coved ceiling and a polished timber floor; the gymnasium below is lit at high level from the sides and has an interesting coffered ceiling. At this time, the exterior was painted in pale colours with blue trim. The building is part of an important group of heritage buildings in the vicinity, including Chatsworth House, with which it has historic connections, the Salvation Army Citadel and adjoining Salvation Army Young People’s Hall. It stands out in the streetscape, in part for its distinctive architecture, part due to the open space around it, and in part for its striking modern colour scheme.
Assessment Historical The YWCA, an important international women’s organisation, was not established in New Plymouth until 1921 but it left a significant mark on the city. Built in two parts, this building is historically significant for a number of reasons. It was used by YWCA (and for a significant period, the YMCA), for over 75 years. It has been claimed that this was the first time anywhere in the world that the two organisations combined to build and use such a facility. It also formed an important link with the YWCA’s hostel a short distance away on Powderham Street, until the latter closed in 1955. Importance to Community This building was still in use by the YWCA in the early 2000s so there is still a link with the wider YWCA community, although this will diminish over time.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 47 Architecture & Construction This is an architecturally interesting building – of two distinct halves and architectural styles – that retains a high level of physical integrity and authenticity. The Art Deco front section shows Bates’ extensive design capability. Setting and Context The building stands out on Powderham Street for its form and the open space around it, and the modern colour scheme adds further distinction. It is part of a group of important old buildings on this side of the street linked historically and/or visually, including the former Chatsworth House and the Salvation Army Citadel. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness The building has retained its front section in its entirety & integrity and much of the building’s interior is understood to have changed little over time. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Government Life Insurance Building
Site ID 113 (Proposed DP), 1197 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Government Life Insurance Building Address 67 Devon Street East, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance Although this investment property wasn’t built for Government Life Insurance, it has historic significance for its long association with the former state-owned insurer; its name is on the two street facades and it occupied the building for 33 years. The building has had a diverse range of commercial and professional occupants over its history. The building retains a great deal of its original fabric and it has architectural interest as a lively example of late 1920s Stripped Classical design; it has a dramatic silhouette and makes good architectural use of its corner site. It stands out in the local streetscape and contributes strongly to the character of the local area.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 5019 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1927 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete and brick Construction Professionals J T Julian & Son (builder)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 49 History This building was constructed in 1927 by Devon Buildings Limited, a company formed for the purpose of developing the site. A permit was issued on 26 January 1927. The builders were J T Julian and Son and the estimated cost was £7,500.83 The designer is not currently known. The developer (or one of them) appears to have been Whanganui-based builder George Mueli, who placed an advertisement in the Auckland Star in May 1927 seeking tenants such as photographers, lawyers, beauty parlour, or dressmakers for the new building. He described it as ‘of the latest reinforced concrete design, replete with every modern convenience, and [occupying] one of the most commanding and best business sites in the town.’84 The building was expected to be completed on 31 July that year. The property was sold to Trust Buildings Ltd in 1928.85
Devon Buildings, as it was then known, in 1940. (Fred Butler Album, ARC 2013-1426, Puke Ariki)
The building housed a variety of tenants in its early years, all of whom were faithfully recorded in street directories. The building was generally known as Devon Buildings or Devon Chambers for the first 30 years of its existence. In 1931, nine tenants were listed, including a dentist, chiropractor, dress makers, tailor, jeweller, and Madge Place, who was described as a ‘toilet specialist’.86 Long- standing early occupants were Hubert Jenkins, chiropractor, H.G. Skeet, dentist, Clifford Johnston, dentist, Flora Sutton, dressmaker, and Walter Jones, tailor.
The Government Life Insurance Department bought the building in 1955.87 It was established in 1869 by the government primarily to provide a cheaper alternative for life insurance for those on uncertain or low incomes. It was highly successful and had a dominant market share by the late 19th century. It became a separate statutory body in 1953. Where Government Life was located in New Plymouth prior to this is not known. For a considerable period, it employed agents to sell insurance and manage claims.
83 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors’ Registers, Puke Ariki 84 Auckland Star, 4 May 1927, p.2. Meuli was an interesting character, having been a South African War veteran and mountaineer (he was a descendant of Swiss immigrants). 85 CT TN125/185, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 86 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1931 87 CT TN125/185, LINZ
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It is most likely that the name ‘Government Life Insurance’ went up on the façades at the point it bought the building. A photograph from 1940 shows the sign Devon Buildings in lettering on the Liardet Street elevation88 and the department was not listed as an occupant in early street directories. Government Life only occupied the building until about 1965 when it moved to new premises one the corner of Liardet and Gill Streets.89 It owned the building until 1988, when it was sold to Bride Holdings Ltd of Palmerston North. In 1993, the building was purchased by local developer, Brian Barron. 90 Retail spaces continued to be occupied for various purposes.
In 2003 the building was purchased, firstly by Armstrong Property Holdings Ltd and then by the Inglewood-based Moles Holdings Ltd.91 The latter was responsible for the conversion of the ground floor into the Grumpy Mole bar and restaurant. It was briefly replaced by the Upside Down in 2010. In late 2012, nightclub Club 55 opened on the ground floor and it remains an occupant. The owner remains Moles Holdings (2017).
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description This is a substantial two-storey commercial building of the late 1920s, designed in an interesting Stripped Classical style. The plan is rectangular, with the south-west corner chamfered off for the intersection and an open service well subtracted on the north elevation and the roof is flat.
The main elevations above the verandah are very much as they were when the building was opened, including the original timber window joinery. The composition is orderly and rhythmic, with each main elevation being symmetrically arranged, and the building has a dramatic silhouette.
The west elevation, to Liardet Street, is in three almost even bays, separated by tall brick pilasters that rise up to the roof. The pilasters each have a stepped-out capital under a cornice, capped with a projecting section of parapet (there were originally wrought-iron railings between the pilasters at the roof level); the central section has a semi-circular arch joining the two pilasters to create a stylised pediment, with dentils under the cornice, the form mirrored in the parapet above. Each bay has a pair of double-hung windows with a small fanlight above that have elaborate sill mouldings and a decorative panel below. The geometry is slightly irregular, in that the bay on the right is slightly narrower than that on the left, and one window is shrunk to suit – the middle windows are a conjoined assembly, whereas those on the left are separated with a concrete mullion. There is no obvious sign that the pilasters represent the building’s structural grid.
The corner elevation follows this theme, but with an inverse arch cut from the parapet (the window here is presently covered with modern signage). The south elevation, to Devon Street, follows the template of the west, but with the three wider bays each having two pairs of double-hung windows evenly spaced, and the central bay having a proportionally taller semi-circular pediment and parapet. The building name is worked into both of the central bays in light relief. There is an unbroken row of fanlights set just above the verandah edge that wraps around the corner to Liardet Street. The stayed verandah matches that shown in the 1940 photograph and is likely to be the original.
At the ground level, save for the blank panel at the north west corner, which has an access way to the back of the building let into it, the shop-fronts below the verandah are modern and have little architectural relationship to the building. The blanked-off shop-front on Devon Street is particularly incongruous.
The former Government Life building stands out in the local streetscape, for its prominent corner siting and its interesting architecture that contrasts strongly with its near neighbours, including its comparatively dramatic silhouette. The immediate streetscape is well-formed if not particularly historic in character. The four corner buildings at this major intersection all have chamfered elevations addressing the intersection. The Magazine building to the south (60 Devon Street East) is the only other adjacent building of any obvious heritage value.
88 Fred Butler Album ARC 2013-1426, 1940, Puke Ariki 89 Taranaki Telephone Directories, TRCT Reference collection, Puke Ariki 90 Ibid. 91 CT TN125/185, LINZ
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 51 Assessment Historical This building has historic importance for its unbroken period of commercial use. It is named for and most closely associated with the 33 years it was occupied by the state-backed Government Life Insurance, a significant participant in the life insurance market in Taranaki – and nationally – in the 19th and 20th centuries. Importance to Community –
Architecture & Construction The building is a lively piece of Stripped Classical architecture with bold form and detailing and a striking silhouette that makes good use of its prominent corner site. Setting and Context The building stands out in the local streetscape; it makes an interesting pair with the Magazine building opposite; it contributes strongly to the character of the local area. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, – integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Abram’s Building
Site ID 114 (Proposed DP), 17 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Abram’s Building Address 9 Devon Street East, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This building is historically significant for its continuous commercial occupation over a century, mainly composed of two separate periods – firstly as a chemists for nearly 30 years, and then as a jewellers, for over 40 years. The building has architectural significance for its refined Neo-Classical design (once typical of the area, surviving examples are now rare) and the façade above the verandah is still very much as it was when it was first built. It is an important structure in the local streetscape and it makes a strong positive contribution to the heritage values of the Devon Street area.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 2 DP 7877 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 53 Construction Information Date of Construction 1911 Principal Materials Masonry (presumably brick) Construction Professionals Sanderson & Griffiths (architects).
History Designed by local architects Sanderson and Griffiths (James Sanderson and H. Victor S. Griffiths), this building was constructed for chemist William Fraser in 1911.92 Fraser leased the property from auctioneer Stanley Shaw. Shaw took on partners in the property – George Robinson in 1912 and then W. H. Skinner in 1920. Shaw died in 1928 and his share was taken up by surveyor William Lysons. When Skinner died in 1946, Lysons owned the property on his own.93
Fraser, whose previous premises also occupied this site on Devon Street, was described at the time of the opening of his new building as ‘a pharmaceutical and dispensing chemist, vendor of patent medicines and photographic and optical goods.’94 This breadth of activity was common for chemists at the time (Fraser even sold stock drench.95) Street directories show the first floor was occupied by a dentist, F N Whitcombe, in 1914 (Whitcombe remained in the building until at least 1926) but otherwise reveal little about the later use of this space.96
In 1920 or 1921, the ground floor space was taken over by Whanganui- based H.J. (Herbert) Abram, also a chemist. Abram occupied the building for much of the following two decades.97 By 1939 he had shifted to the Eliot Street corner of Devon Street East. The new occupants of the building were Constance Barr, a Abram’s Building in 1923. (LN1777 A.2a.38, Puke Ariki, dressmaker, and Clifford Long, a Photographer Eileen Moss ) masseur.98 It is assumed that Long’s business was upstairs. Laurie Hedges, a jeweller, took over the ground floor lease about 1940. In 1956, his business (Hedges Jewellers Ltd) bought the building from the then owners – William Dean and Roy Harris, who had bought the building from William Lysons in 1952.99 That same year Hedges added the present stayed verandah, in place of the original one supported on verandah posts, with the work undertaken by Roebuck Construction.100 Further alterations were made in 1960-61 and 1967,101 although the nature of that work is not presently known.
92 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors’ Registers, Puke Ariki 93 CT TN70/123, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 94 Taranaki Daily News, 13 June 1911, p.3 95 Taranaki Daily News, 23 October 1911, p.3 96 Taranaki Daily News, 7 August 1914, p.1 97 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1920-1936 98 Ibid., 1941 99 CT TN211/110, LINZ 100 Reference in original inventory entry for 9-11 Devon Street East, NPDC 101 Ibid.
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In 1968, Hedges sold the building to Hughson’s Hardware but remained a lessee of part of the shop premises. In 1971, more unspecified changes were made to the building.102 In 1972, Laurie Hedges’ occupation of the building ended and the ground floor space was taken over by Ken Smith Jewellers. This may have been prompted by the sale of the building that year to Pamela McAuliffe. Smith’s lease was transferred to Trevor and Moira Webster in 1979.103 In 1994, McAuliffe sold the building to Lloyd, Janet and Geoffrey Horn.104
In 2017, the two ground floor shops were occupied by a floral boutique (Petal and Prickle) and The Mad Irish Keyman/Cobbler, a shoe repair and key cutting business. The building has been owned by Roam Resources Ltd since 2004.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description This handsome Edwardian Neo-Classical building is situated in a block of largely modern two- storey commercial buildings, opposite the CC Ward building on the south side of the street. The nearby buildings are all of comparable scale and step up to follow the ground as the street rises to the east, which makes for interesting views along the length of the street.
The great contrast between the refined architecture of Abram’s Building – which features a richly decorated and articulated façade and tall pediment - and the plain planar elevations of its neighbours ensures it stands out in the current streetscape (this was not so much the case when it was first opened – the neighbouring buildings were rather more comparable in visual quality and scale).
Above the verandah, the building is very much as it was when it was first put up, with the exception of a modern fire escape balcony on the right-hand side. This main elevation is symmetrically composed and very orderly. It features three tall double-hung windows evenly spaced along the façade, each with heavy hood moulds and keystones surmounted by a heavy moulded and dentiled cornice with a prominent row of console brackets, topped with a gabled pediment in the centre of the façade above the cornice. The cornice is stopped at either end of the façade by a huge acanthus-leaf scroll bracket.
The stayed verandah was put up in 1956, replacing the original post and beam verandah. The replacement has nothing of the elegance or refinement of the original. The row of fanlights just above the verandah roof is likely to date to the same year.
Below the verandah, the shop fronts are all relatively modern and bear little relationship to the original arrangement – however, the access door to the first floor remains in its original location on the right-hand side of the elevation.
The roof plan shows three distinct sections to the building; at the front a gabled section with parapets on all 4 sides, behind that another gabled section with a parapet at the back, and a lean-to section using up the balance of the site. This division may relate to some of the building’s history of change.
Assessment Historical This building has modest historic value for over a century of continuous commercial use, made up, largely, of two periods, initially as a chemists (1911- c.1938) and then as a jewellers (1940-1979). Importance to Community –
102 Ibid. 103 Summary of ownership and lease changes from CT TN211/110 104 CT TNG3/522, LINZ
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 55 Architecture & Construction This building is a fine piece of Edwardian Neo-Classical architecture that stands out from its modern neighbours. Setting and Context The building makes a strong positive contribution to the local streetscape and is an important member of the substantial group of old buildings along Devon Street. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, The main elevation is largely intact. Its refined design integrity provides a good representative example of the high architectural quality of the commercial buildings that formerly stood in this area. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Bacon’s Building
Site ID 115 (Proposed DP), 1205 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Bacon’s Building Address 48 Devon Street East, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance Bacon’s Building and the site it occupies have historic significance for the long association with drapers, milliners and clothiers, starting with William Pellew who first operated from the preceding building in the 1880s. Included in this is the drapery business of Henry Bacon, for whom the building is named. The building is a rare example of a largely intact timber commercial building in the CBD, and is a skilled piece of Neo-Classical architecture designed by one of New Plymouth’s most accomplished architects. It is part of a group of comparable old buildings in the surrounding area but stands out amongst them for its refined and lively architecture and its physical integrity.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Pt Sec 911 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1902 Principal Materials Timber; party walls covered with corrugated iron Construction Professionals Frank Messenger (architect); Campbell (builder)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 57 History This building was constructed in 1902 for Honnor and Clark on behalf of their tenant, William Pellew, a draper.105 W & H Pellew had been in business on Devon Street East (most likely on the same site), possibly as early as the 1880s. (There was a reference to a Miss Pellew, a dressmaker, at Devon Street East in 1882).106 The building was designed by architect Frank Messenger; the contractor was a Mr Campbell.
The building has always been leased and, for most of its history, to drapers and or milliners. William Pellew left the building in 1909 (he may have been forced out by bankruptcy) and his business was replaced by the London Millinery Depot, run by Misses Jennens (late of London) and Banfield (from Wellington).107 They dissolved their partnership in February 1915 and the lease was taken up R O Goddin, draper and milliner.108
Goddin closed up in July 1918 and at that point the lease was taken over by Henry Maryon Bacon (1880-1966),109 whose drapery business became the second longest occupant of the building. Bacon was born in London and arrived in New Zealand in 1913. After working in various parts of the country, he set up in business in New Plymouth shortly after marrying Helen Johnson from Hawera. Outside of his long-standing business he was best known for establishing the North Taranaki Arts Society in 1933. It held its first meeting in a room above this shop. He was later president and patron.110 The organisation continues to this day, now based in the historic building The Gables. During Bacon’s lease, in 1945, unspecified internal alterations were undertaken. A long-standing owner of the building was the New Plymouth Friendly Societies Dispensary Ltd. (their name is on the next building over to the west). They were owners during Henry Bacon’s tenure and held the property until 1976.111
When Bacon gave up his lease is not entirely clear but it seems to have been not long after the end of the war. By 1948 the principal occupant was Majestic House (milliners and drapers). Tax consultant William Finnigan had offices upstairs. By 1953, the building had three occupants - MAC Ltd, tailors, Kaiapoi Woollen Mills manufacturing, Teenage Frocks Ltd. and Henry Johnston, a dentist. The latter was presumably on the first floor. Empire Frocks, the longest occupant of the building, took over the lease about 1956.112 The shop was still there in 1995. Danielle Holdings Ltd bought the building in 1976 and remains the owner.113
In more recent years, the ground floor tenant has been The Shampoo Shop and Salon. The retail space has been much altered over the years but the front elevation above the verandah has been restored, along with the playful addition of sculptures of birds fixed to the façade.
Reference Sources Refer footnotes
Description This is a two-storey early-Edwardian commercial building, constructed in timber but detailed as for stone. The main façade above the verandah remains very much as it was when the building was opened in 1902 and it makes an interesting comparison with, and companion to, the masonry Kelsey’s Building (1904) on the opposite side of the road.
105 Taranaki Herald, 5 June 1902 p.3 106 Taranaki Herald, 28 September 1882, p.3 107 Taranaki Herald, 6 August 1909, p.3 108 Taranaki Herald, 1 March 1915, p.3 109 Taranaki Daily News, 10 August 1918, p.4 110 Taranaki Herald, 14 June 1966 111 CT TN125/200, Land Information New Zealand 112 List of occupants courtesy of Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1910-1957. It is possible that Teenage Frocks and Empire Frocks were linked. 113 CT TN125/200, LINZ
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Designed by noted local architect Frank Messenger, the main elevation is very much Neo-Classical in style and form. The façade has a graceful tall proportion and is symmetrically composed. Tuscan pilasters at either side of the elevation rise to a substantial entablature, made with a heavy moulding at the base and a large projecting cornice with moulded console brackets and a prominent dentil course below. This frames two large double-hung windows with elegant moulded surrounds, which are capped with large moulded hood moulds supported on carved brackets. The window sill sits on a string course moulding that springs from the column bases. The column plinths extend down to a plain head-board from which the verandah stays now spring. Above the cornice the parapet has a small triangular pediment in the centre and horizontal copings run out to small pilasters at either end. There is a row of fanlights just above the verandah roof (these appear to be covered over from the inside).
Part of the east side wall can be seen above the neighbouring building. This is clad in very old corrugated iron, possibly original material.
The stayed verandah is modern, likely dating to the 1950s and replacing the original post and beam verandah. Below the verandah, the shop-fronts are entirely modern, although the panelled door to the first floor stairs (on the left side of the elevation) is old, possibly original.
Beyond the front section of the building, which is covered with a simple hipped roof behind the parapet, the balance of roof plan suggests several changes have been made over its life.
This side of the block of Devon Street East has a long line of extant old buildings. However, only a few have not been crudely altered over time and the character of the streetscape, although still interesting, is consequently rather diminished from the quite authentic state it had in the 1950s. Bacon’s Building is one of the few in this group to remain largely intact. It stands out from its neighbours for its refined architecture and sense of age, qualities that have been enhanced by its current bold colour scheme and interesting decoration.
Assessment Historical Bacon’s Building has historic value for its longstanding association with succession of milliners, drapers and clothiers, particularly Henry Bacon, who occupied the building for nearly 30 years and the business Empire Frocks, who were there for at least 40 years. The building has strong links to the late 19th century drapery of William Pellew who built this building and whose business more than likely began on the same site in the 1880s. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction This is an interesting example of an Edwardian commercial building constructed in timber but detailed to look like stone and is a fine piece of architecture in its own right. Setting and Context This building is part of an interesting group of old shops in this area of Devon Street East. Its lively architecture makes a strong positive contribution to the local streetscape (a quality enhanced by its present decoration). Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness This is a rare example of a largely intact timber & integrity commercial building of the era in the CBD. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 59 The State Hotel
Site ID 116 (Proposed DP), 1206 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name The State Hotel Address 162 Devon Street East, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance Although it is difficult to determine the age and provenance of this building, it dates from at least 1900 and is a now rare example of a timber hotel in New Plymouth. The association of the site with the Red House and State Hotels is a notable one, stretching back to 1865. The hotel has a remarkably long and rich history of association with sporting teams, events and social activities. The building is distinctive in the local streetscape for its character and timber construction, and it makes effective architectural use of its prominent corner site.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Pt Lot 1 DP 5585 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1865; 1900 (major alterations) Principal Materials Timber Construction Professionals Theodore Jacobsen (architect, 1900 alterations)
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History This historic location has been home to a hotel since about 1865, the year that the Red House Hotel is thought to have opened. It is possible that some original material from that building has survived to this day.
The Red House Hotel, a two-storey timber building, had a distinctive appearance, with a high hipped roof clad with shingles and tall double-hung windows; it did not have a verandah. It was built by Richard Langman and the first licensee was John Carter. Carter’s occupancy is first mentioned in local newspapers in April 1866,114 but the hotel may well have been completed earlier. Carter went bankrupt in 1867 and Langman had to take over the lease. Langman lived in a cottage at the rear of his hostelry.115 From 1874 to 1877 he leased the hotel again – to Edmund Dover. Langman took the hotel back in 1877, and in 1878 he put the hotel up for sale. 116
The new owner was William Brooking, who undertook major alterations to the hotel in 1880- 81. The hotel was lengthened on its Gover Street elevation, the roof lowered and extended and a parapet built. Some of the shingles remained on the north side of the hotel’s roof. The interior was significantly revamped.117
During the 1880s the Red House Hotel license passed through a number of hands, courtesy of at least two bankruptcies. In 1888, Horatio Hammond became the The Red House Hotel in the 1870s. (A.2a.4, Puke Ariki) licensee. It was during his tenure that the Star Football (Rugby) Club was formed and became closely associated with the hotel. The club’s annual meetings were held in the hotel for a number of years and it even practised on the hotel’s grounds.118 The Star Cricket Club likewise used the hotel for its initial meetings. Many sporting teams, including the Taranaki representative rugby team, stayed at the hotel or held celebratory dinners. One of the hotel’s larger spaces was often used for inquests. In 1897, Hammond sold the property to James Hawkins.119
In a meeting in June 1899, as part of its regular assessment of the region’s public houses, the Taranaki Licensing Committee described the Red House Hotel as ‘well kept, clean, and in good order, but the building is very old and not up to the requirements of a town like this.’ At a break during the same meeting the committee took the opportunity to inspect the Red House and on return stated that while they ‘did not feel disposed to direct that the hotel should be re-built, the licensee...must understand that he may receive orders at any quarterly meeting to rebuild.’120
Samuel Hooper took ownership in 1900. It is not clear if it was Hooper or his predecessor who took matters into his own hands, but Auckland architect Theodore Jacobsen was hired to rebuild the hotel. The extent to which the hotel was actually rebuilt is a matter of some conjecture. Jacobsen’s tender notice stated that he was making additions and alterations.121 However, a newspaper report
114 Taranaki Herald, 21 April 1866, p.3 115 Taranaki Herald, 17 February 1879, p.3 116 Taranaki Herald, 25 May 1878, p.3 117 Taranaki Herald, 18 March 1881, p.2 118 Tullet, J.S. 1981, The Industrious Heart: A History of New Plymouth, New Plymouth District Council, pp.267- 268. There was mention in 1909 of a team training shed opposite the hotel. (Taranaki Herald, 14 April 1909, p.5) 119 Taranaki Herald, 4 September 1897, p.2 120 Taranaki Herald, 2 June 1899, p.2 121 Taranaki Herald, 25 January 1900, p.3
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 61 on the building after work was completed indicated that it was significantly rebuilt.122 Given that the window and door openings were reconfigured and the interior was also thoroughly altered, it would seem unlikely that much of the original hotel remained. (It is possible that timbers and joinery were reused.) The refurbished (or possibly new) building featured an elaborate two-storey verandah (very similar to the one erected at the White Hart Hotel) on the Devon Street elevation, with a return into Gover Street. With the hotel rebuilt, Hooper leased the hotel to Arthur Bishop the same year.123 Hooper extended the verandah further down Gover Street in 1901.
In 1902, Edwin Whittle and three others secured the lease from Hooper. Whittle soon became licensee on his own account and in 1920 he bought the hotel from Hooper. His huge enthusiasm for sport – he was a representative cricketer for Taranaki – meant that the hotel remained highly regarded as a meeting venue and for overnight accommodation by sporting clubs. Competitive card playing was another regular use during Whittle’s ownership. Edwin Whittle died in 1927 but by then he had sold the hotel to Benjamin Dunn (in 1926).124 In 1930 Dunn in turn sold the building to Adam Lile.
Lile was another sportsman, having been a member of the famous ‘All Golds’ rugby league team that toured Great Britain in 1906/07.125 This tour marked the international debut of the breakaway professional code. Lile was also a strong supporter of horse racing and the Taranaki Jockey Club in particular. In 1937, he changed the building’s name to the State Hotel and the following year he added ‘modern additions to the Gover Street frontage’,126 although it is not clear what these were. The verandah lasted until 1966, when it was replaced127, presumably with the present stayed verandah. Lile died in 1954 and his son Pat took over the hotel. Ownership was transferred to Pat and his brother Addie. The latter sold his share of the property to New Zealand Breweries in 1961.128 The property was held as a moeity by Lile and New Zealand Breweries. Lile remained proprietor until 1972, giving the Lile family a 42-year association with the hotel. At some point during this period the hotel was The State Hotel (‘The State Establishment’) c.1970. (A.2a.135, Puke known as The State Ariki) Establishment. The hotel was sold to New Zealand Breweries in 1974.129 At some point the building incorporated the two storey, timber commercial building to the immediate east of the hotel. This was originally constructed about 1900 for Arthur Lealand as a bakery shop130 (the bakery itself was located behind the hotel).
New Zealand Breweries (by then renamed Lion Breweries) undertook significant work on the building in 1979-80, and as part of this established a Cobb & Co. restaurant on the ground floor. It remained a pub restaurant, known more as Burton's Bar and Breakers Restaurant. Lion and its later incarnations retained the building until 1996, when it was purchased by The State Hotel Ltd,
122 Taranaki Herald, 17 October 1900, p.1 123 Taranaki Herald, 26 July 1900, p.2 124 ‘From Red House to State Hotel’, Sunday Express, 4 December 1983 125 Taranaki Herald, 10 September 1954 126 Sunday Express, 4 December 1983 127 See previous heritage inventory entry (no ref. though) 128 CT TN140/89, Land Information New Zealand 129 CT TN265/69, LINZ 130 See ‘Arthur Lealand's Bakery and Bakehouse, Devon and Gover Streets (1900-)’, http://ketenewplymouth.peoplesnetworknz.info/new_plymouth_buildings/topics/show/2767-arthur-lealands- bakery-and-bakehouse-devon-and-gover-streets-1900, Puke Ariki
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owned by Neil Walsh. In 2000 it was sold to Ronald, Jennifer and Brett Southern and Grant Blackbourn.131
In 2012, more renovations were undertaken by Craig Macfarlane and Karyn Grant, who teamed up to open a franchised café, Joe's Garage. The same partnership, with Grant’s husband Kevin Gibson, opened an Irish themed bar the following year in the back portion of the building.132 Both establishments were operating in 2017.
In 2014, the first floor of the hotel was extensively renovated by owners, Michael and Paul Ekdahl, of Red House NP Ltd, which bought the building in 2011. The hotel has 15 bedrooms, all individually refurbished, and a guest lounge.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description As it stands today, part of the State Hotel still bears a passing resemblance to the 1865 Red House Hotel. Extensive alterations over time have lengthened the building, reduced its height, added then changed the verandah, and incorporated additional buildings on either street frontage. Despite such extensive change, it remains recognisably an old hotel.
The State Hotel is clearly the oldest building in the local streetscape, and one of the more interesting structures in the area (along with the State Theatre and the former LH Johnson Motors buildings opposite), an impression enhanced by the characterless modern buildings flanking it on either side.
The main elevations are two storeys in height and run along Devon Street East and Gover Street. The elevations are neatly chamfered together at the corner with a single angled bay (containing the current main entrance). The character of the building is largely resident in the façades above the verandah. The upper walls are clad in rusticated weatherboards, surmounted with a broad projecting cornice fixed on paired brackets; a plain parapet projects above the cornice, accentuated with a small gabled section facing the street corner. The upper walls are neatly and rhythmically punctuated by tall double-hung windows along both main elevations, set out in a pattern that closely corresponds to those of the Red House – although some of the window joinery is clearly modern work. There is little visible trace of any old building left below the verandah and the stayed verandah itself seems to date to 1966 (when it replaced the turn of the century post and beam verandah).
The arrangement of roofs is complex, and shows how the hotel has incorporated adjoining buildings on both street elevations; there is a large open service yard area at the rear.
Assessment Historical There has been a hotel on this site for over 150 years. How much of the original hotel – the Red House – remains is unknown but even if it was totally replaced the new hotel was rebuilt in 1900 and is now of a considerable age. It is likely to be the oldest commercial or public building in the vicinity. The association of the building with sporting and social activities over most of its history is also notable. Importance to Community Hotels are a focus of community activity and although it is not quite the ‘local’ it used to be, the State Hotel is still a venue for socialising for nearby New Plymouth residents.
131 Ibid. 132 Taranaki Daily News, 22 September 2014, pp.13-15
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 63 Architecture & Construction The building has architectural value in its good use of the prominent corner site and the rhythmic composition of its main elevations. Setting and Context The hotel is unquestionably the oldest public or commercial building in the area, and together with the State Theatre and former LH Johnson buildings across the road it forms a group of old buildings that greatly enhances the character of this part of Devon Street East. Archaeological There has been a hotel on this site since 1865 and it is entirely possible that traces of the original building and occupation of the wider site still remain and could be investigated by archaeological methods. Rarity, representativeness – & integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Darby and Hannan Building
Site ID 117 (Proposed DP), 1222 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Darby and Hannan Building Address 53 Devon Street East, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This building has historic significance for its long association with Darby and Hannan, a prominent Taranaki business that endured for over 60 years, occupying the building for most of those years. It has architectural value for its interesting use of a Stripped Classical idiom, and for its unusual form with a giant-order bay window. The building stands out in the local streetscape for both its formidable scale and its singular design, and it makes an important positive contribution to the heritage values of both the local streetscape and the wider CBD area.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Pt Lot 3, DP 3479; Lot 2, DP 3479 District Plan Item/ Map No. Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 65 Construction Information Date of Construction 1928 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals T W Bates (architect); Jones & Sandford (builders)
History Darby and Hannan had this building constructed in 1928. The architect was noted local practitioner T W Bates, a thoroughly accomplished designer (responsible for many of the buildings of the era in the CBD), the builders were Jones & Sandford (a descendant commercial joinery company is still in business in New Plymouth today under the same name) and the estimated cost was £7,300.133 The building permit was issued on 17 April 1928.
Darby and Hannan began as a firm of painters and paperhangers and glaziers. The business began in 1920, in a small corrugated iron shed ‘at the junction of the Huatoki and Mangatuku Streams’.134 By August that year the firm had moved to Skinner’s Building in Brougham Street. In 1922, there was a further move to Devon Street East, on the opposite side of the road from their ultimate destination.135 The business’s growth was considerable and by 1928, at which point it had also decided to offer Taranaki-wide wholesale trading, it had both the means and the need to build a large, reinforced concrete building on the north side of Devon Street East.
There were curious aspects of the property transaction that allowed the building’s construction. One was that the property was not sold to Darby and Hannan until August 1928 and that the seller was the successful Auckland-based painting and decorating business, Phillips and Impey,136 who would reappear over half a century later.
In 1941, when the firm celebrated 21 years in business, it noted that the growth in business had necessitated several additions to the building.137 However, it is not clear from its external form what these changes may have been. By 1946, the building was described as an ‘office, warehouse and showrooms’, while the firm was describing itself as ‘Oil and Colour merchants, Artists’ materials, glass merchants, leadlight and motor windscreen manufacturers’.138
Darby and Hannan were long-time supporters of English-born local painter, Bernard Aris. A prolific artist, most famous for his depictions of Mt Taranaki, he lived for much of his life in poor health and on a meagre income. Darby and Hannan sold his paintings – as many as they could take.139 In 1983, 57 years after their previous involvement with the property, Phillips and Impey took over Darby and Hannan and the building’s owner’s name was changed accordingly. Darby and Hannan as an entity disappeared. Phillips and Impey later became Impey's Glass, Australian Consolidated Industries (ACI) Glass, Winstone Glass, Smith and Smith Glass and, more recently, Metro Direct.140 Phillips and Impey sold the building to Northgate Trading Ltd in 1985. They in turn sold the building to Mangorei Properties Ltd the following year. The present owner is Pacific Imports and Trading Ltd.141 The ground floor was occupied by a nightclub, Rhythm, for a number of years.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
133 Building Register Book 1927-33, Puke Ariki Archives (ARC 2011-204) 134 Taranaki Herald, 29 March 1941 135 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1925 136 CTs TN94/275 & TN94/276, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 137 Taranaki Herald, 29 March 1941 138 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1946 139 ‘A Man Mad on the Mountains – Bernard Aris’, Taranaki Stories, http://pukeariki.com/Learning- Research/Taranaki-Research-Centre/Taranaki-Stories/Taranaki-Story/id/87/title/a-man-mad-on-mountains- bernard-aris# [retrieved 21 August 2017] 140 ‘Glazing's many changes in 50 years’, North Taranaki Midweek, 26 August 2014 141 CT TN178/130, LINZ
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Description The former Darby and Hannan building is an unusual structure in New Plymouth. The building is a formidably tall four storeys, an impression accentuated by a substantial parapet, and is nearly twice as high as the two adjacent two-storey structures. Above the verandah, the building remains largely at is was when it was built.
The design is capably carried out in a carefully-proportioned and symmetrically composed Stripped Classical idiom, unusually but interestingly arranged around a giant-order bay window. The whole of the façade above the verandah is ornamented and decorated in a deliberately restrained fashion. The main elevation has a strong vertical proportion. It is heavily modelled, with a projecting central bay window assembly of three equal facets that extends over the upper two storeys, capped with a plain frieze panel and decorative keystone, the whole supported on massive moulded corbels at the level of the ground floor fanlights. The bay window is flanked by a single rectilinear bay on either side. Beyond this, on either side of the façade, slender pilasters with stylised rectangular Ionic capitals rise up to a tall entablature that is capped with a row of delicate rosettes set on a reeded background. The strong grid of identical vertically-proportioned windows is further enhanced by the sharply stylised diaper panelling under each of the windows that emphasises the verticality of the building.
The verandah is hung on wrought steel stays and appears to be the original. There is a row of fanlight windows just above the verandah roof, which are blocked off from the interior. The fanlight windows are the only old joinery visible on the building; the rest of the exterior joinery is modern aluminium and the shop-front below the verandah is all modern work. The entrance to the upper floors is set in a recessed bay on the right-hand side of the elevation.
The sides of the building display its basic concrete frame and infill structure. The back of the building is visible from a service alley to the north. This end of the building is plain and unadorned, with modern aluminium windows set in rectangular openings. Along with an open concrete framework linking across the service alley to the adjoining building to the north, a series of modern blockwork infill panels illustrate a history of change.
Assessment Historical This building is named for Darby and Hannan, a well- known Taranaki painting, paperhanging and glazing business that constructed the building and then operated from it for nearly 60 years. The business’s early confidence is reflected in the construction of these premises just eight years after it was founded. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction This commercial building stands out amongst its more modern neighbours for its scale and distinctive architecture. The design is a capable and interesting example of a Stripped Classical style. Setting and Context This substantial three-storey building is the tallest in the block; flanked by much lower neighbours on either side, it stands out in the immediate streetscape, and it makes a strong positive contribution to the character of the area. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, The main elevation is substantially original, save for the integrity modern aluminium joinery and the building has a high level of physical integrity. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 67 Sole Bros Buildings
Site ID 118 (Proposed DP), 1244 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Sole Bros Building Address 38-40 Currie Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This building has historic significance for its connection with butchers Sole Bros, who were prominent in New Plymouth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They erected the building and although they did not use it for long, the business’s association with the site itself goes back to 1904. Fruiterers James Bamforth and then XYZ Fruit were longstanding occupants of the corner shop in the 20th century. The building has been in constant use since its construction in 1928. It has architectural value for its fusion of Art Deco and Spanish Mission stylistic influences, for its well- considered proportions and strong rhythms and for the treatment of the long façade on Currie Street, used to visually unify two separate structures. The building is particularly prominent in the local streetscape due to its size, corner site and its architecturally bland neighbours in each direction.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 2, DP495322 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1928 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals F E Gooder (architect)
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History Sole Bros, butchers, began business in New Plymouth as Gus Sole and Co. about 1882. The Sole family (William and Sarah) were early arrivals in New Plymouth and they had a large family. Their son Gustavus Sole helped set up Gus Sole and Co. but after it was dissolved that same year (1882) he established Sole Bros with his brother Oliver.142 Their premises were on Devon Street. Other brothers, including Ernest, were later involved in the business.
A new shop was opened in Devon Street in 1886. The business next made a move to the north- west corner of the intersection of Devon and Currie Streets in 1904, where the existing shop was substantially rebuilt for the new purpose.143 In addition to the butchery business, Gus Sole ran a farm that supplied some of the meat for the shop. The corner site in question was a significant one in New Plymouth history. It was originally the location of a storehouse built in 1841 at the very beginning of the city’s establishment.144 It was later the site of Victoria House, a drapery business run by Josias Hoskin and originally established by his parents, who were amongst the very first settlers in New Plymouth.145 Another business that was claimed to have been on that corner site was S B White and Sons, also a drapery.146
Ernest Sole died in 1923 but Gus and Oliver were still very much alive in 1928 when it was decided to a construct a new building on the corner of Devon Street West and Currie Street. A permit was issued for the construction of ‘Shops and Offices for Messrs Sole Bros’ on 15 May 1928.147 The plans (held at Puke Ariki) were signed by F E (Francis Ernest) Gooder, an architect from Wellington of whom little is known. The building contractor is not currently known.
The building seems to have been an investment more than anything else. Robert Sole ran a butchery from a shop located on the Currie Street elevation but he was gone by the end of the 1930s, replaced by Aldous and Telfer. The building remained owned by a family trust until 1975.
Sole Bros Building, c.1940. (Fred Butler Album, ARC 2013-1426, Puke Ariki)
The corner shop was relinquished to James Bamforth, fruiterer, while other early occupants included H.W. Frost, a dentist, and a billiard saloon run by George Beatty (and, later, others) on the first floor. Another long-standing early occupant was Taranaki Sign Co.148 Jimmy Joe took over Bamforths about 1946 and renamed it XYZ Fruit Co.149 His shop became well known in New
142 Taranaki Herald, 16 December 1882, p.3 143 Taranaki Daily News, 7 October 1904, p.2 144 Taranaki Herald, 2 July 1891, Supplement, p.1 145 Hawera and Normanby Star, 17 July 1924, p.4 146 Taranaki Daily News, 28 August 1920, p.4 147 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors Registers, Puke Ariki 148 Wises New Zealand Post Office Street Directories, 1927-1955 149 One newspaper account put the sale of Bamforths at 1947, but street directories show that Jimmy Joe was already in business in 1946. (Taranaki Herald, 2 June 1976)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 69 Plymouth and operated for 30 years. He sold it to a former Wellington grocer, P J Marr in 1976. 150 The Taranaki Butchery, run by Harold Tuson, took over from Aldous and Telfer in 1956 and operated from there until its closure in 1976.151 Ian Lobb Chemist took over one retail space in 1978.152
The building was sold to J.L Ngan Investments in 1975.153 The building was owned for some years by Huatoki 206 Ltd. The present owner is Headcase Enterprises.154 In recent years the ASB Bank has been the major tenant. Other tenants during the 2010s have included, on the ground floor, the French cafe/bakery Petit Paris and Michael Hill Jewellers, and on the first floor the Laughing Buddha restaurant (as of 2017).
Reference Sources Refer footnotes
Description Sole Bros is a substantial and distinctive two-storey structure that occupies a prominent corner site in the CBD.
The building occupies two lots; the first is on the corner of Devon Street (where it has a narrow frontage) and Currie Street, and the second runs through from Currie Street to James Lane.155 The two are separated with a narrow covered-in right of way, which seems to be a separate structure in its own right. The roof plan reveals something of the complex nature of the building that lies behind the parapets of the main façades. The first section has a shallow mono-pitch roof. The right of way is covered over with a flat roof. The second main section has a long gabled roof, with the end visible at James Lane.
The building is more or less Art Deco in style, with simple geometric shapes and a strong horizontal emphasis, leavened with a Spanish Mission influence seen in the patterning and rhythm of the rigid rectilinear forms of the ornamentation and the tall vertical window proportions. The detailing is simple and the ornamentation is restrained. The two main elevations (one short, to Devon Street, and one long, to Currie Street) are each symmetrically arranged, and meet at a chamfered corner facing the intersection (this corner is mirrored in the streetscape by the modern building opposite on the south of the street).
The main elevation above the verandah is little changed from the original, aside from the modern window joinery (aluminium), the fire escape on the south end, and various air conditioning units. The band of wall above the verandah, up to the sill of the first floor windows is formed as a plinth, with a simple dado mould (decorated with an abstracted rod-and-bead motif) acting as the window- sill. The band containing the windows is a smooth-plastered plane with the windows punched into it; above the head of the windows is a bold projecting cornice, with cubic bosses (each with a roundel on the face) delineating each main bay of the elevations and interspersed rectangular console blocks, generally aligned to the windows in pairs. The parapet gives the building a strong and distinctive silhouette. It has raised sections at Devon Street, at the chamfered corner and far north end and a tall stepped section in the centre of the Currie Street elevation. Each main bay of the parapet has a fielded panel trimmed with a stylised fasces motif, while the smaller panels are filled with abstracted quatrefoils. The main windows (all modern aluminium joinery) are tall rectangles, closely spaced either side of the central bay; at the corner, and at the central bay, smaller diamond- shaped windows add visual interest. The main façade is divided just to the north of the central section, marking the position of the right-of-way.
150 Ibid. 151 Taranaki Herald, 17 August 1976 152 CT TNB3/391, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 153 Ibid. 154 TN726639, LINZ 155 The juncture between the two lots is marked with a slender vertical panel with red infills.
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The stayed verandah is likely to be the original – the fanlight windows just above are modern aluminium replacements. Below the verandah, the shop-fronts are all modern, with no trace of the original aside from the pattern of the divisions between the various tenancies.
The building stands out in the local streetscape by the contrast of its interesting architecture against a group of bland and unprepossessing collection of modern neighbours in each direction and by virtue of its key corner site that draws attention to both its elevations. Its position forms a critical visual link with other heritage buildings on Devon Street that helps provide a sense of continuity of the heritage area across a stretch of the street that otherwise has few old buildings.
Assessment Historical This building has had a continuous history of commercial use on a key inner-city corner site since it opened in 1928. The building’s name indicates the importance of Sole Bros in this location – as owners and occupants of the building that preceded this one and as the builders of the current structure. Despite this, the best known occupants of their building were fruiterers - first James Bamworth and then XYZ Fruit – whose presence in the corner shop gave the building a strong profile. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The building is architecturally interesting for its bold but simple Stripped Classical design that marries three different structures neatly together in the streetscape. Setting and Context The building stands out in the local streetscape, and it makes an important positive contribution to the heritage values of Devon Street by anchoring one of the key corners in the area. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, The upper façade on both elevations is largely integrity unchanged and has a high level of physical integrity. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 71 Public Trust Building
Site ID 119 (Proposed DP), 1256 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Public Trust Building Address 52 King Street, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance This building has historical significance as the permanent office in New Plymouth of the Public Trust, one of New Zealand’s most socially important and lingering institutions. The building is thoughtfully and capably designed in an imposing formal style that is intended to reflect its importance and convey a sense of permanence. It is part of an important collection of heritage buildings in this part of the CBD, and, located on a prominent corner site, it stands out in the local streetscape. It is one of the best designs by notable local architect Thomas Bates in New Plymouth.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 3831 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1920 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete, double-skin brick, plaster; timber joinery Construction Professionals T H Bates (architect); Roberts & Son (builder)
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History The Public Trust was established by the government in 1872 to prevent the misappropriation of trust funds upon a person’s death. Initially its main task was to administer the estates of those people who had named the Public Trustee as executor of their wills before their deaths. In 1873, it was given the power to administer the estates of people who died without a will, as trustee of settlements, to manage the properties of living persons and, where directed by a Court, to manage the estates of mentally ill patients. Later the Public Trust acquired other duties, including the estates of convicts, minors, the aged and infirm, and the discharging of mortgages in circumstances where the mortgagee was dead, could not be found, or was not in the country.156
Although the Public Trustee had district managers and agents, an increasing workload and the delays caused by having to involve head office were hampering the organisation’ work, leading to calls to change its structure. The Public Trust Office Amendment Act 1912 enabled the delegation of powers to four Deputy Trustees based outside of Wellington and the establishment of a series of branch offices. Decentralisation began in 1913 and, as part of this, purpose-designed offices were built in regional centres. At the time, the Public Trust’s staff in New Plymouth was occupying a corner of the Post Office. The construction programme resulted in a number of distinctive public buildings being put up around the country, particularly through the 1920s.
New Plymouth’s turn was signalled in 1919 when the budget for new government offices was sought from the Public Works Department.157 The following year, local architect Thomas Bates was engaged to design offices for the Public Trust on the corner of King and Queen Streets. Bates was a competent and accomplished architect, conversant in a broad range of styles, who went on to design a number of prominent buildings in New Plymouth. The offices were to contain a ‘public office, manager’s office, interviewing room, main office, West Coast Reserve rent office [Maori reserves], strong room’ and safe deposit vault for public use.158 The estimated cost was £4,000 and tenders were called in February 1920. The successful contractor was Roberts and Son.159
The architect’s specification for the work is interesting in that it calls for some part of the walls and fireplace of the building that previously occupied the site (the Westport Coal Company’s offices) to be made good and incorporated in the new work. The specification deals with reinforcing and concrete work at some length.160 An early waterproofing admixture was called for the concrete work of the vaults and the floors – “Toxement” – to help keep out the damp.
At this point in the Public Trust’s history, demand for its services in Taranaki was such that branch offices were by then in operation in Hawera and Stratford, as well as New Plymouth, and additional offices were opened for one day a week in Waitara, Inglewood and Eltham.161
The initial construction was followed by an extension to the Queen Street elevation that was planned and built in 1925. Bates was again the architect while the successful contractor was F.D. Payne Ltd.; his tender price was £3,466.162 In the absence of the plans it is not clear exactly where the additions were made but an aerial view of the roof suggests a possible demarcation line about two-thirds of the way along the building. Bates’ specification again dwells in detail on concrete work and reinforcement - even the gate posts are described – however, much of the new work is described as double-skin brick, plastered to marry in to the original building so it is unlikely that earthquake precautions were the architect’s main consideration. The extension matched the original in detailing, and provision was made to seamlessly marry up the new and earlier work.163
156 This summary of the Public Trust’s early history is based partly on ‘Former Public Trust Office, 201 Karamu Road North, Hastings. Inventory Number 20’, Report by Michael Kelly / Chris Cochran draft July 2007; Updated August 2012 157 Taranaki Daily News, 7 October 1919, p.4 158 Taranaki Daily News, 28 January 1920, p.4 159 Taranaki Herald, 16 March 1920, p.2 160 Specification for the Erection of an Office Building at the corner of King and Queen Street New Plymouth for the Public Trustee, 1920, AADV W5534 24777 Box 70, Archives New Zealand (ANZ) 161 Taranaki Daily News, 18 December 1920, p.4 162 Additions, The Public Trust Office, New Plymouth, 1925, AADV W5534 24777 Box 70, ANZ 163 Ibid.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 73 There were more changes to the building (described as ‘renovations’) in 1953, 1959 and 1983.164 The nature and extent of these changes is not currently known.
The Public Trust served the Taranaki region from this building in will, estate and trust administration for over 70 years. A great many Taranaki residents had their affairs administered by the Public Trust through this office.
In 1996, during a period when the Public Trust began to divest itself from ownership of property, the building was sold to Robert Angus Ltd., a real estate company.165 It is assumed that by this time the Public Trust had left the building. The Public Trust’s work continues in Taranaki, presently from rented space in Currie Street. A crown entity, the Public Trust remains New Zealand's oldest trustee organisation.
In 2003, Robert Angus Ltd sold the building to Moira Irving, who split ownership of the building in half with Mark Irving in 2005. That same year it was sold to Herbit Properties Ltd. In 2007, the building was bought by Neison Properties Ltd, a company part-owned by local couple Paul and Shelley Carrington.166 They converted it into a residence in 2008 and named it Ashby Folville after a Leicestershire village.167 The building has subsequently been converted into managed apartments.
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description The Public Trust’s expansion programme ran over two decades. The task was significantly restricted by World War 1, and this meant that the majority of the building work was carried out through the early years of the 1920s. The timing of this expansion, combined with the architectural mores of the day and the nature of the client organisation, resulted in the construction of a large number of Neo-Classical temple type buildings for the Public Trust around the country. Although almost all the buildings were designed by well-known local architects rather than a single architectural office, they collectively have a great deal of commonality in their design. At the time, Neo-Classical architecture was still widely considered to confer connotations of strength, reliability and permanence, along with an implicit sense of historical continuity, all appropriate to the nature of the organisation. Bates’s design for the New Plymouth branch office is something of an outlier in this context. At a single storey in height, it is one of the smaller Public Trust buildings. Stylistically, it is perhaps best considered as a heavily stripped-back version of an Edwardian Baroque style – one that retains a traditional formal geometry and composition and uses large-scale architectural features and motifs but omits the characteristic decorative flourishes and embellishments. It nevertheless conveys a strong formality and sense of permanence. As seen today, the building is still very much as it was when the addition was completed in 1925. The building is resolutely rectilinear in plan and elevation. There are strong horizontal datum lines at the base, which is formed as a plinth for the building, at the window sill line, a moulded string course above the window heads, and a heavy cornice dividing the main wall from the parapet. The openings are large and are laid out symmetrically and rhythmically, each with a moulded “keystone” rising to the string course.
164 Renovations to the Public Trust Office, Corner King and Queen Streets, New Plymouth. Job: 880-01, 1953?, Public Trust Office, Head Office Specification for Alterations to New Plymouth Public Trust Office, corner King and Queen Streets for Public Trustee. Set No. 1. 1959, Public Trust Office, Head Office Renovations to the Public Trust Office. Corner King and Queen Street's New Plymouth. Job: 880-01, Sheets 1- 14, 1983, Public Trust Office, Head Office [These specifications were not inspected and it is not certain if the work proceeded] 165 CT TN97/272, Land Information New Zealand 166 Ibid. 167 See http://www.warmington.co.nz/webfiles/Warmington/webpages/images/42194/New_Plymouth.pdf [retrieved 7 September 2017]
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The main elevation faces King Street. This is symmetrically and formally composed, with two slightly projecting bays, each with a single large arched window, flanking the recessed central entrance bay. The entry features a grand pair of moulded doors with a segmental-arched over-light and the legend “Public Trust Office” is incised into the entablature above in shallow elongated lettering. A modern entry canopy masks the overlight and detracts from the appearance of this façade. The second elevation faces Queen Street. This is also symmetrically composed and is strongly rhythmic with a single bay at either end, and a double central bay, each with arched windows, separated by intermediate bays each with 3 evenly spaced rectangular windows. The plinth extends as a storey-high datum line as the ground falls away to the north, and the addition on this end of the building is effectively two-storeyed with a modern car park at ground level). The third elevation faces the car park on the east side. This is an irregular arrangement that steps progressively out toward the boundary in plan and appears all be later work. It is likely that the northern end is the 1925 addition (this is configured as a standalone apartment). The fourth elevation faces north and has a small terrace level (and sculpture garden) above the garage entry, as well as a short return wing. Flanked by car parking areas to the north and west, the building is set in open space at the corner of King and Queen Streets, opposite the White Hart Hotel. This gives it a considerable prominence in the local streetscape, and neatly positions a selection of large art pieces for public viewing. The Public Trust building is part of an interesting and diverse group of heritage buildings at this end of King Street, including the White Hart (1886), Bates’s Hooker’s Building (1927-28, designed in an early Edwardian idiom) and Victoria Building (1925, a resolutely Modernist structure), and a pair of small Edwardian commercial buildings.
Assessment Historical The Public Trust is an important government agency that has operated nationally since 1872. This building is historically important as the home of the Public Trust in New Plymouth; its construction came during a significant period of regional expansion by the Trust. It was from this building that the Public Trust served the Taranaki region in will, estate and trust administration for over 70 years. In that time a great many Taranaki residents would have visited these offices or had their affairs administered by the Public Trust at this office. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The building has a strong, elegant and simple design that complements its original role and speaks of its social importance. Setting and Context The building is part of an interesting group of heritage buildings in the nearby area, some also designed by Bates. It is very prominent in the local streetscape and makes a strong positive contribution to the character of the area. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, This is one of the more interesting of the nation’s Public integrity Trust buildings and an important part of that group of structures. Its exterior remains substantially as it was in 1925 and the building has a high level of physical integrity. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 75 Red Post Building
Site ID 120 (Proposed DP), 1256 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Red Post Building Address 85 Devon Street East, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance The heritage significance of this building lies mainly in its long history of use by furniture retailers, particularly the period when it also incorporated a factory. Red Post and then Pursers were substantial and prominent institutions in New Plymouth in the 20th century. The Red Post building is architecturally appealing for the use of Classical motifs to enliven an otherwise plain and utilitarian structure. It is one of several old buildings on this stretch of Devon Street East (where it makes an interesting comparison with the Government Life Insurance building to the west). It stands out in the local streetscape for its height, and for its detail and visual interest against its unremarkable modern neighbours.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Pt Sec 897 DP 2248 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1910-1911 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals Probably Frank Messenger (architect); Burgess & Fraser (builder)
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History J H (John) Parker, a watchmaker, jeweller and optician, whose business premises were elsewhere in Devon Street East, acquired this property in 1911168 with the purpose of building a combined furniture factory and retail showroom for the Red Post Furnishing Co., which he had recently purchased. The permits were applied for in three stages and the architect of all three was almost certainly Frank Messenger.
Firstly, on 27 September 1910, a permit was issued to contractors Burgess and Fraser for the erection of a furniture factory.169 Then, on 12 July 1911, a permit was issued to J H Parker for the erection of a shop, at a cost of £2,300.170 Finally, Parker sought permission to have a verandah latter added to the shop in October 1911.171 The combined size of the buildings, even before they were constructed, led one newspaper to describe the development as ‘huge’.172 Parker died in 1913 and his estate retained ownership of the property.
At the outset, Red Post claimed to be able to remove the need for New Plymouth’s residents to go outside the district to furnish their houses, boasting that it could manufacture and sell everything necessary to fit out a modern house for £47.173 It even promised that by using the spaces on the first floor of the building it could show how it would furnish each room of a house.174
A significant fire in the factory in 1914 caused much damage to stock and led to a public enquiry,175 although no specific cause was determined.
In 1916, Red Post bought out a rival furnishing business, E Dingle. Dingle joined Red Post as a shareholder and, it seems, an eventual proprietor. By 1920 the land was owned by Dingle and later the Dingle Estate. The precise circumstances of this transfer are not known but may have been an outcome of the purchase of Dingle.176
Red Post Building, shortly after it opened in 1910. (Alexander Turnbull Library, 21316½)
168 Taranaki Daily News, 22 May 1911, p.4 169 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors Registers, Puke Ariki. This predates the purchase of the property but may have been prepared in anticipation of the sale. 170 Ibid. 171 Taranaki Herald, 10 October 1911, p.4 172 Taranaki Daily News, 12 June 1911, p.2 173 Taranaki Daily News, 14 March 1912, p.6 174 Ibid. 175 Taranaki Daily News, 13 June 1914, p.7 176 Taranaki Daily News, 3 May 1916, p.8
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 77 In 1920, a lease-only purchase was made of the Red Post business (by then the Red Post Furnishing Warehouse), by Albert Purser, who had other business interests in furniture and furnishings.177 Purser’s, Ltd. had branches in Whanganui and Inglewood. Anxious to retain the Red Post connection, initial advertising pitched the business as ‘Purser’s, Ltd., The Red Post Home Furnishers, Wanganui, Inglewood and New Plymouth’.178 That same year – 1920 - Purser’s announced that it would be opening an undertaking department. Purser’s, later Purser Bros., became a New Plymouth fixture, lasting until the 1980s. The name later changed to Purser's Bros. Ltd.
In 1950, the original post and beam verandah was removed and replaced with a modern stayed arrangement, suspended from the front façade.179 In 1953, Purser Bros.’ long lease came to an end when the company purchased the property from the Dingle Estate. The name Purser finally disappeared in 1991 when the owner was renamed Smith City Group Properties. The following year the property was transferred to Constellation Enterprises. In 2003, $2 Magic purchased the building and in 2016, it was bought by Tech Trust Ltd.180 In recent years occupants have included Payless Plastics and a beds and furniture outlet. The present tenants (2017) are the Shoe Clinic, the $2 Shop and Stardust Creations. The first inventory entry prepared for the building (date unknown) noted unspecified changes to the building – an extension in 1984, and alterations in 1987 and 1992, either to the shop fronts or interior. The shop fronts have clearly been altered, probably several times.
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description The application of Classical elements and motifs to this substantial two-storey building adds a great deal of visual interest to what would otherwise be a quite plain structure.
Above the verandah, this building remains much as it was when it was opened. The façade is divided into four equal bays by square engaged Ionic pilasters, which rise to a broad entablature then up to the large projecting cornice that separates the main façade from the parapet. Each bay has a pair of tall windows (originally double-hung timber joinery) unornamented apart from heavy window hoods supported on moulded scroll brackets. The hoods over the two outer pairs of windows are joined together. The plinths of the columns form a strong horizontal datum above a lower cornice.
The parapet was originally detailed with a series of small triangular pediments, one per bay. These pediments were presumably removed after the 1942 Wairarapa earthquake, leaving the current plain parapet in place.
There is no trace of the original shop-front below the verandah. Similarly, the modern stayed verandah is the 1950 replacement of the original post and beam one. The original double-hung timber windows were replaced with aluminium, perhaps in the 1980s, to the detriment of the building’s character.
The roof plan reveals a substantial building of three principal bays – the two-storey front section, two bays of workshop/warehouse space behind that, each with a saw-tooth roof facing south, and a lean-to space beyond that. It appears the building may have had service access from Gill Street.
177 Taranaki Herald, 19 April 1920, p.7 178 Taranaki Daily News, 26 April 1920, p.2 179 Notes taken from Taranaki Herald, 23 January 1950 by F.B. Butler (Taranaki Research Centre) 180 Summary of recent ownership from CTs TNA3/266 & G4/512, Land Information New Zealand
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Assessment Historical This building has significant historic value for its construction and use for a furniture and furnishing business for over 80 years (firstly as Red Post, later as Purser Bros.). Its opening ushered in a new era in New Plymouth business, with Red Post ambitiously marketing itself as a retail and manufacturing business on such a scale that it could offer a one-stop shop for Taranaki people furnishing their houses. Importance to Community Purser Bros. was a retailing fixture in New Plymouth for decades and is likely to remain well-known in the community. Architecture & Construction This is an interesting example of the use of Classical motifs and detailing to enliven an otherwise relatively plain and substantial commercial building. The main elevation remains substantially as it was when the building was first opened. Setting and Context This building is one of a few interesting old buildings in this part of Devon Street East. It stands out in comparison with its plain modern neighbours and makes a positive contribution to the character of this part of the street. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness – & integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 79 Johnson’s Motors Building
Site ID 121 (Proposed DP), 1266 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Johnson’s Motors Building Address 167 Devon Street East, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance This is an historically important building in the history of the motor industry in Taranaki. The first purpose-built structure erected by the successful motor company L H Johnson Ltd, it was used as a showroom (and for other purposes) until 1972. Parts of an earlier building occupied by the company from its inception in 1922 still remain in the 1928 building seen today. The building is of modest architectural interest, for its use of a simple Stripped Classical style that adds character to an otherwise plain large building. It is part of a small but interesting group of heritage buildings in this part of Devon Street.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Pt Lot 3 DP 3936 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1925 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor (architects); Boon Bros. (builders)
History This reinforced concrete building on Devon Street East was built in 1925 for Laurie Johnson, a motor vehicle dealer, and designed by architects Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor.
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Laurie Johnson was a young man from Masterton when he arrived in New Plymouth and set up the motor vehicle dealership, Thomas and Johnson, with his friend Len Thomas in 1919. They leased a timber building on Devon Street East (the location of the subject of this report) and it was found to be sufficiently strongly-built to be used as a showroom.
Thomas and Johnson secured the Taranaki franchise for Chevrolet, Hudson and Essex vehicles, the latter two via an arrangement with Dominion Motors. Cars were sent via rail in pieces in crates and assembled on the adjoining vacant section. In 1924, Thomas and Johnson parted company, with the former opening a welding shop half a block away, while the latter went out on his own. The may have split the business up ever earlier; land records show that Thomas sold his share of the property at 167 Devon Street East to Johnson in 1922.181
In 1924, Johnson shifted to General Motors, giving him the franchise to sell Cadillacs, Pontiacs, Chevrolets (by then with GM), Oaklands and others, including – later – Vauxhalls and Bedfords. With his expanded inventory of vehicles to sell, Johnson needed more room. The new showroom was – according to the history of the company – built around the existing timber building. The permit for construction was issued on 9 June 1925. The contractors were Boon Bros and their estimated price was £5,000.182
In 1927, Johnson bought the building to the immediate east of the State Theatre and put his paint shop in it. LH Johnson Ltd was formed in 1929 but the company hit headwinds with the sudden arrival of the Depression. By 1934, having weathered the worst, Johnson bought the service station on the corner of Devon Street East and Gover Street, expanded it and installed his workshop facilities, sales service, parts, petrol and panel-beating departments behind the bowsers.
In the wake of World War II, Johnson sold 167 Devon Street East to LH Johnson Ltd. and the company bought more land in the Gill/Gover/Devon block to expand operations. In 1957, a new service building opened on Gill Street and at this point the building on the corner of Gover and Devon Street East was upgraded and the service station openings filled in. In 1962, Johnson Consolidated Ltd, a holding company, was formed to control what had grown into four companies.
Photos show various changes to the two main buildings over time, including the installation of sloped plate glass display windows to both at ground level.
In 1972, the by now highly successful company built an entirely new facility on a large site to the north of its existing buildings on the block bounded by Molesworth, Gover and Gill Streets. With the buildings on the Devon Street East block no longer needed, they were sold off. No.167 Devon Street East was purchased in 1976 by a triumverate from Eltham – lawyer David Roache and Peter Miller and accountant James Baxter.183 The building has been owned by Manaia farmer William Hughes since 1994.184
The building has been tenanted by a variety of businesses in the period since L H Johnson left. Music company Pianoworks currently occupies one half of the building (2017).
(Unless otherwise stated, this history is taken from ‘Expanding with Taranaki: The First Fifty Years of LH Johnson Motors Ltd’, Taranaki Research Centre (TRCT658.89 HOB)
Reference Sources See footnotes.
181 CT TN98/121, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 182 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors Registers, Puke Ariki 183 CT TNF2/447, LINZ 184 Ibid.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 81 Description The quirky application of a Stripped Classical style to this large two-storey building adds a great deal of visual interest to an otherwise quite plain structure. The main elevation above the verandah is symmetrically composed and divided into five bays; each bay is separated with a stylised Doric pilaster and has a 6-light casement window assembly capped with an abstract head moulding and keystone; the space above is filled with a rectilinear Art Deco panel. The pilasters run up to a stylised entablature that has a roundel motif above each pilaster and is capped by a large projecting cornice with simple flat consoles; above this is a shallow gabled pediment, with a pair of diagonally crossed windows in the centre. This section of the building remains much as it was when the building was first opened. The verandah is supported on stays and lines through with that on the adjacent building to the west. Nothing of the LH Johnson days appears to survive below the verandah, with the possible exception of the main entrance doors to the left-hand tenancy. The building is bookended by the corner building, formerly an adjunct of the LH Johnson showroom (also designed in a sparse Stripped Classical idiom), and the elegantly-designed Art Deco State Theatre, making up a visually contrasting group of old buildings in this section of the street.
Assessment Historical LH Johnson Ltd and its successors was, for a lengthy period, one of the most successful motor companies in Taranaki. This building is significant, partly because it incorporates portions of the first building that Laurie Johnson and his partner’s business occupied, but also because the firm used the building for various purposes for 50 years. This must be one of the most important buildings in the history of the motor industry in New Plymouth. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction This is an interesting example of the use of Stripped Classical motifs to enliven an otherwise plain large commercial building. Setting and Context Together with the adjacent corner building at 161 Devon Street East and the State Theatre, this building forms an interesting group of old structures that makes a strong positive contribution to the local streetscape. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness – & integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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State Theatre
Site ID 122 (Proposed DP), 1267 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name State Theatre Address 181 Devon Street East, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance The State Theatre is a rare example of a pre-World War II cinema building, one of just two now left in New Plymouth. It has historic significance as a survivor from a period when the cinema was extraordinarily popular and new theatres were being built at remarkable rate. It operated for 55 years, a significant period. The building has architectural significance for its elegant and refined Art Deco design, which remains entirely intact above the verandah. It is part of a small group of heritage buildings at this end of the block, and it makes a strong positive contribution to the heritage values of the wider area.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Pt Lot B DP 440 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1935 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals George Tole (architect); Boon Bros. (builders)
History The State Theatre, which opened on 8 March 1935, was a development by the successful local building firm Boon Brothers. It was to be the last of the grand old cinemas to be built in New Plymouth. The building was designed by Auckland architect George Tole,185 who was in
185 De Bueger, Nancy 1994, ‘The Change in the Cinema Industry ...in New Plymouth’, (Excerpts on State Theatre) TRCT791.43 DEB, Taranaki Research Centre
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 83 partnership with Horace Massey from 1928 to 1935. It is not clear whether this building was designed under the partnership’s name though.
Although Boon Bros. built the theatre, there is no evidence that they ran it; it seems likely to have been built for, or possibly in anticipation of the occupation by Amalgamated Theatres, who took on the theatre after it opened. Amalgamated Theatres (formed by brother Michael and Joseph Moodabe in 1928) was the largest national cinema business, and the acquisition of the State Theatre brought its complement up to 65 theatres throughout the country,186 and marked the entry of Amalagamated into Taranaki. The theatre ran in direct completion with the existing local group of theatres run by Garnet Saunders’ company Taranaki Amusements Limited.187 It was the first cinema in New Plymouth not to have shown silent pictures and likely the first to have been built without an orchestra pit.
State Theatres were a key part of the Amalgamated brand and appeared all over New Zealand. For the New Plymouth building there was clearly a close tie-in with Amalgamated Theatres because Tole designed the building in association with Harry Dilger, Amalgamated’s supervising architect.188 Similarly, Tole also designed the Masterton State Theatre in 1935 for a local group of businessmen who then leased the theatre to Amalgamated Theatres.189 This seems likely to have been the same arrangement with Boon Bros., and would have been an approach that allowed Amalgamated Theatres to open eight new theatres in just four months during 1935.190
The theatre in April 1967. (Bernard Woods Studio, WD.020968, Puke Ariki)
The State Theatre was the first cinema at the eastern edge of the city; all previous theatres had been much further west, near the centre of the city. When it opened, the Theatre had stalls and a gallery but the latter was altered at some point into a dress circle. At this point the theatre sat 970, a significant but far from unusual number.191 Over its life the theatre, also known as the State Cinema, showed hundreds if not thousands of movies. The theatre also had retail spaces on the street elevation, either side of the entrance to the theatre.
By the 1980s, Amalgamated Hoyts, as the company was by then known, suffered a significant downturn in the film industry and many older, large, single space theatres with large numbers of seats were closing around the country. Faced with potentially upgrading the theatre for modern
186 Ibid. 187 http://pukeariki.com/Learning-Research/Taranaki-Research-Centre/Taranaki-Stories/Taranaki- Story/id/437/title/flickering-dreams-garnet-saunders-and-the-new-plymouth-theatre-industry 188 Ibid. 189 ‘State Theatre’, http://www.library.mstn.govt.nz/State-Theatre.php [retrieved 18 August 2017] 190 Ibid. 191 De Bueger, 1994
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seismic standards in the face of a quickly changing business landscape, the company instead opted to close the State Theatre. The last film was shown in the cinema in May 1990. The theatre’s end also meant the end of the jobs of the theatre’s staff, three of whom had been working there longer than 15 years.192 For a time, this left the elegant Art Deco Mayfair Theatre as the town’s main cinema, but it was also under similar threats. The Mayfair finally closed in late 1993 when the modern multiplex cinema incorporated in the Top Town Cinema 4 complex opened.
The State Theatre building was bought in 1990 by Trevor Clegg Furnishers and the company transformed the interior into a retail space – Clegg’s Carpet Court. The company still occupies the building and is today known as Clegg’s Furniture Court. It also occupies the adjoining modern retail space to the east.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description This building presents a very refined and stylish Art Deco façade to the street, its features enhanced by a modern charcoal paint scheme with restrained gold highlights. The main elevation is symmetrically composed and carefully balanced about a slightly projecting centre bay. The centre bay is elegantly decorated – the main feature is a triptych of complex decorative louvre panels recessed into the façade with stepped reveals at either side; the central panel has an “S” worked into it, and the whole is finished with a zig-zag relief mouldings – the piers on each side of the louvre panels are raised slightly above the rest, as a suggestion of pilasters. Above this is the “State” name in relief lettering, divided from the louvre panels by a stylised egg and dart moulding. Above this a stylised palmetto frieze finishes the top edge of the bay. The two side bays have recessed paired windows with stepped reveals siting on a simple string course moulding; the lower lights are glazed with square leaded panels and there is a zig-zag relief motif at the head. Above this, a recessed string course suggests a parapet that is ornamented with a stylised egg-and-dart moulding and terminated with a semi-circular coping. The stayed verandah has been somewhat modified from the original as the stepped soffit (which emphasised the cinema entry) has been converted to finish flush underneath. The shop-fronts under the verandah are entirely modern and have little to do with the building apart from maintaining a central entry. Although the overall outward form of the building appears little altered from the original, it is not currently known what, if anything, remains of the original cinema behind the modern furniture showroom fit-out inside the building.
Assessment Historical The State Theatre was built during the post-‘talkies’ heyday of cinema and is, with the Mayfair, a rare (if internally altered) local survivor of that key period in the country’s social history. The building operated as a cinema for 55 years. It has now been a furniture showroom for several decades, a significant period in itself. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The formal Art Deco street elevation of this building is particularly elegant and refined, qualities enhanced by its contemporary paint scheme. Setting and Context The State Theatre is part of a small row of heritage buildings at this western end of the block, and it makes a strong contribution to the character of the streetscape.
192 Ibid.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 85 Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness This is one of two surviving cinema buildings in New & integrity Plymouth (the other is the Mayfair, which is more authentic). Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Websters Building
Site ID 123 (Proposed DP), 1269 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Websters Building Address 12 Devon Street West, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance Webster Bros was one of New Plymouth’s most successful local businesses and this building, which it built and owned for 37 years, has historic importance for its association with the company, as well as for its very long association with Brownsons, which owned the building for 56 years and remains a New Plymouth retailing institution. The building remains much as it was when it was first built, save for the loss of its original shop-fronts. The quirky blend of Stripped Classicism and Spanish Mission styling gives it architectural interest. It contributes positively to the character and heritage values of the local streetscape where it is a companion to the Colliers building to the west and Sole Bros building to the east.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Allotment 3 Town of New Plymouth; Pt Section 5 Store House Reserve District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1920 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals Messenger & Griffiths (architects); Boon Bros. (builders)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 87 History Webster Bros was a significant early New Plymouth business that was founded in 1862 by brothers Frederick and William Webster. The brothers set up as commission agents and merchants and were first based in Brougham Street. They expanded their breadth of operations, buying ships, importing goods and forming an agricultural agency and an auctioneering business. They built, with W K Hulke, the Egmont Flour Mill in Powderham Street (1865-67), which still stands. A second and third generation of Websters carried on the business into the 20th century.
In 1907, Webster Bros. took over a building occupied by L D Nathan and Co. on Devon Street (now 12 Devon Street West) and converted it into an auctioneering house. This building, which had had a long history of use as a butchers (W Sole) and then various merchants, had access to James Lane from Devon Street, which meant that goods could be brought to the rear of the building.193 In 1908, Webster Bros. bought Newton King’s furniture and fruit auction business.194 This building soon proved too small for the firm so they had it demolished in 1919 and replaced with a new structure. In the interim, Webster Bros used the Egmont Flour Mill to conduct its auctioneering business.
The new building was completed by December 1920.195 Constructed by Boon Bros., its estimated cost was £8,000. At the time of its opening, Webster’s advertised the activities of the auction house. These included fresh fruit (daily), poultry (weekly), furniture and produce, and seed.196 Webster’s shared the building with J B Cresswell, a dentist, a dining room run by Mrs W H Harris, and, by 1927, W J Shepherd Ltd, furnishers.197
Webster’s use of the building was relatively short-lived. Music house Nimmo and Sons took over the lease of the ground floor in 1929 and Webster’s moved to new premises further down James Lane (possibly the building at the rear). Nimmo’s business grew quickly, and they soon moved on to large premises; they were replaced by Penneys, grocers. They occupied the building for a long period. William Quickfall, an accountant and agent, had offices on the top floor, also for a lengthy period.198
Websters Building when it was briefly occupied by Hamilton Nimmo and Sons, 1929. (F B Butler-Crown Studios Collection, Te Papa, C.003398)
193 Taranaki Daily News, 1 December 1919, p.6 194 ‘Webster Bros Centennial’, Taranaki Herald, 9 January 1965, pp.6-9 195 Ibid. 196 Taranaki Daily News, 18 December 1920, Supplement, p.3 197 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1921-1927 198 Ibid. and CT TN120/121, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ)
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At the time that Webster’s built their building, the land was owned by the Borough of New Plymouth and leased to Webster’s, who sub-leased to their tenants. In 1939, the property was transferred to the New Plymouth Harbour Board (NPHB) under the New Plymouth Borough Land Exchange. Webster’s signed a new lease with the NPHB in 1949. In 1957, Webster’s lease was transferred to the jewellers Brownson (New Plymouth) Ltd. In 1983, Brownsons acquired the entire property. Confusingly, Brownson changed its name to Webster Property Holdings Ltd in 1995. This company sold the building to Mark and Glenda Hatwell and Dennis Johns in 2003. It is presently (2017) owned by Duncan and Leeann Nelson and S.R. Nelsons Trustees Ltd.199
Apart from Brownsons and Penneys, the other long-standing tenant was shoe store Clegg and Stevens. Brownson Jewellers remained in the building until about 2013. Other recent tenants have been Bartercard, Mode hair design and Relax, barbers.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description Webster’s is a distinctive two-storeyed commercial building set in the centre of the CBD. The roof plan shows the building is formed of two meeting rectilinear boxes. It has a simple gabled form, with the first ridge running parallel to the street façade, and a second ridge running perpendicular to this The main elevation faces south to Devon Street. This is designed in a simple but quirky style blending Stripped Classical compositional features with Spanish Mission influences. It has a symmetrical composition, heavy modelling and a contrast of horizontal and vertical forms that creates architectural interest. The elevation is divided across its width into three bays, a wide central bay and two narrower side bays, with tall pilasters that project through the cornice and above the parapet line ending in a moulded capping with a stylised key motif (the end pilasters run down to the ground, whereas the middle pair stops at the window sill line) creating a strong vertical emphasis and an unusual silhouette against the northern light. Tall rectangular window openings add to the verticality. This is contrasted with strong horizontal lines that further divide the façade – mouldings at the window sill and head, a prominent projecting cornice (which runs over the face of the middle columns and has large decorative blocks underneath), and a parapet coping. Each of the end bays has a projecting three-sided oriel window, with small decorative corbels under the sill moulding; the middle bay has three evenly spaced windows with stylised rectangular keystones and a roundel above. The building’s name is worked in relief in the central portion of the parapet. The west elevation is a plane face with a smooth plastered finish. There are a number of blocked- up windows to the ground floor, and an array of windows set in plain rectangular openings to the first floor (narrow single-sash windows to service areas and wider double-sash ones to offices). The stayed verandah appears original, with the stays springing from ornamental bosses on the pilasters. There is a row of blocked-off fanlight windows just above the verandah. The shop-fronts below the verandah are modern. The building stands out in the streetscape for its appearance and its contrast with the lower and entirely plain modern building to the right and the tall and architecturally interesting Colliers building across the alleyway to the left – the visual separation of the alleyway gives some additional emphasis to Webster’s building. It has a stylistic affinity with the nearby Sole Bros. building.
Assessment Historical Webster Bros was an early, successful and long- standing New Plymouth business that occupied this site either side of the building’s construction and retained the lease on the building until 1957. This building is one of a handful in New Plymouth that retains a physical connection with Webster Bros. Brownsons, the jewellers that owned the building for 57 years, is a well known and successful retail institution in its own right.
199 Summary of transactions courtesy of CT TN120/121
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 89 Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The design makes use of a blend of a Stripped Classical style and Spanish Mission influences to create an architecturally distinctive building with an unusual silhouette. Setting and Context Webster’s makes an important contribution to the heritage values of the local streetscape. It makes a very interesting companion and visual contrast with the adjacent Colliers building, and has a stylistic affinity with the nearby Sole Bros. building. It is an important part of the wider group of heritage buildings in this part of the CBD. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, – integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Barry’s Building
Site ID 124 (Proposed DP), 1270 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Barry’s Building Address 112 Devon Street West, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance This building has historic significance for its near 100 years as a commercial building in the heart of New Plymouth. It is not known to have been the home of any particularly significant occupants with the possible exception of the Taranaki Women’s Club (1926-1950). Although it has only modest architectural interest, it is nevertheless an important contributor to the character of the wider streetscape, and it is member of the group of 1920s buildings constructed on this block following the 1916 conflagration.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 2 DP 6208 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1923-24 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor (architects); Coleman & Sons (builder)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 91 History This building was an investment project by retired farmer Daniel Barry. The architects were the prominent firm of Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor and the contractor was Coleman and Sons. The estimated cost was £3,400.200 Barry was 73 and living in New Plymouth at the time he had this building constructed. The permit was issued in September 1923 and the building was finished the following year. Barry’s Building was written in relief just below the parapet, but it’s not clear if the building was generally known by this name.
Early occupants included McDonald and Son, boot-makers, Vincent Darroch tea rooms, stationers Easton & Son, clothiers Hunter & Sons and Roderick McRae, a butcher.201 A photograph taken in the mid-1920s shows, curiously, the first floor windows overlooking Devon Street covered over and advertising on some of them.202 During this period and beyond, occupancy turned over quickly, with the Dolly Varden, Johnstone and Lehmann and/or William Humphrey tea rooms, butcher George Clout, hairdresser David Ball, George Hannan, a dyer, among others. A long-standing tenant was the Taranaki Women’s Club. This was founded in 1926 for women interested in social, public, scientific and artistic affairs and it seems likely that Barry’s Building was the club’s home until it moved to the former Skinner home in Powderham Street in 1950. The club is still in existence today.
Barry died in 1932 and the building was inherited by three of his children – John, Johanna and Mary. By the 1940s, Valet Service, dry cleaners, had begun a long occupancy, Johnstone and Lehmann had turned into the Misses Lehmann tea rooms and two confectioners, including Frank Cooper, were in occupancy. Dolly Varden cafeteria returned in the early 1950s, but by the late 1950s, much had changed. There were four tenants listed at 110 (an architect, surveyor, accountant and tailor), along with Chequer Tearooms, a clothes shop and newsagent.
The Barry children sold the building to Gordon English and Robert Girvan in 1966; English and Girvan sold it to Egmont Holdings Ltd in 1967.203 By the 1970s the building was being marketed as Building 114, after one of the street numbers the building covered. Along with Valet Dry Cleaners tenants included Embassy Frocks, Devon Fruit Co., Goldsworthy’s magazines and books, Piccadilly Restaurant, Dorset printers, along with TCAA Raceways and Modelcraft’s Model Raceway, which offered 16 lanes and 30 fast slot cars to play with.204
Recent tenants have included Momo Sushi (which opened in 2010) and the Empire Tea Rooms which opened in 2007, gift shop Tempt (2017), which replaced a bar called Powder Room, and Gibbons Architects (level 1). The present owners are Jeremy Thomson, Susan Baker and Sally Masson.205
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description This is a foursquare and unassuming two-storey commercial building situated at the western end of Devon Street. The main elevation faces Devon Street. It is lightly modelled and has a modest amount of ornamentation. It has a long horizontal proportion emphasised by dominant cornice and parapet lines, and is divided into five bays (the central bay somewhat wider than the rest), each containing a timber window, recessed with moulded trims. The windows all have lead-light fanlights. The bays are articulated with shallow pilasters, each capped with a stylised fasces motif and block under the cornice, and a double block in the centre of each bay. The cornice has a Greek Meander pattern; the parapet above is decorated with roundels over each pilaster and has a shallow steeped coping, with the date in relief numerals in the central section.
200 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors Registers, Puke Ariki 201 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1927 202 Image from The Settlement and Development of Taranaki, published by E. Bradbury & Co. 1926 203 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1931-1957 204 Taranaki Herald, 3 June 1971 205 CT TN119/90, Land Information New Zealand
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There is a row of fanlights just above the lower section of the verandah. The stayed verandah, including the unusual interleaved arrangement of stays that springs alternately from the pilasters and the lower spandrel beam, is the original; its stepped form follows the lie of the street. The main entry to the building, and the shop frontage to the Empire Tea Rooms retain some of the original shop-front fabric (including a large display window) and illustrates something of the original character of the building at street level, but the other shop-fronts are all modern. The east and north elevations are unornamented; an angled gate at the service lane opens on to the rear yard. The building has some presence in the streetscape, largely due to the open space of the service lane to the east and its visual contrast with its bland modern neighbour to the west. Barry’s Building is part of an important group of heritage buildings at this end of the city that includes the White Hart Hotel, the Hotel, the Opera House and former AMP Chambers among others. The group of 1920s buildings here shares a common beginning in the disastrous conflagration of 1916 that all but levelled this block.
Assessment Historical This building has provided nearly a century of retailing, café and office space in central New Plymouth since its construction. It has had a lot of occupants over its life; perhaps the most notable of these was the Taranaki Women’s Club, which occupied the building for its first 24 years. It has been the home of a great many different businesses but one constant feature of the building has been cafés, tea rooms or restaurants. Importance to Community This building does have some social significance for the many tea rooms, cafes and restaurants it has housed. It means that generations of New Plymouth residents will have been familiar with the building. Architecture & Construction The building is simply designed and has a modest level of architectural interest. Setting and Context This building makes an important contribution to the immediate setting; it is one of a group of historic buildings on the north side of Devon Street West, including the White Hart Hotel, the Opera House and former AMP Chambers. It is also part of the new central New Plymouth Heritage Area, which is centred on Devon Street but also incorporates King, Queen and Egmont Streets (among others). It is also part of the group of 1920s buildings that were put up on this block after the 1916 fire – this group helps illustrate the growth and development of New Plymouth in the 1920s. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness The building is a representative example of a simple & integrity 1920s investment building, few of which are left in the CBD area. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 93 Morey and Son Building
Site ID 125 (Proposed DP), 1271 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Morey and Son Building Address 81 Devon Street West, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance Morey & Son is notable for its long history of occupation by drapers, a connection that stretched back to the previous building on this site. The most significant of these occupants was Morey and Son, who built the building and give their name to it. Now over a century old, the building has made a long contribution to the commercial life of central New Plymouth. The building is typical of the high quality of commercial architecture that once filled the CBD. It has architectural value for its distinctive and carefully executed Neo-Classical architecture; this, combined with its prominent height and semi-circular parapet, gives it a bold silhouette and distinctive presence in the immediate streetscape. The present colour scheme highlights the architecture effectively. Morey & Son makes an important contribution to the heritage values and character of its surroundings, and it is part of a significant group of heritage buildings in the area, including the Mayfair Theatre, Veale’s, the New Plymouth Savings Bank, Arizona and Exchange Chambers, amongst others.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Pt Sec 665, New Plymouth TN District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1915 Principal Materials Masonry with plastered facade Construction Professionals J T Mannix (architect); Payne & Shaw (builder)
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History There was a succession of drapers at this location for close to a hundred years. They occupied two buildings, the first built in 1872 and the second (and present one) in 1915. The first building was designed by and for John Veale and built by J C George in 1872.206 T S Wymond and Co., drapers, occupied the building for a few months before disposing of their business to Walter Morey, of Morey and Son, whose drapery establishment continued on this site through to the mid 1930s.207 Morey had arrived in New Plymouth in the early 1870s and married Sophie Veale in 1873. Tenders for the erection of new business premises in Devon Street for Morey and Son were advertised in June 1915 by architect J T Mannix.208 On behalf of Morey and Son, auctioneer Newton King advertised the sale and removal of the building, including outbuildings.209 It can be assumed that the building was not sold as it was reported the following month that demolition was about to start.210 The new premises, built by Payne and Shaw, were complete by December that year. The new building and stock available within reflected a shift in the retail clothing industry in the early 1900s in New Zealand. Early drapery businesses sold fabrics and offered tailor-made services, whereas the new establishments, such as that of Morey and Sons, offered factory made, off the rack clothing, much like the clothing stores of today.211 In the late 1930s, the building was occupied by I M Beresford and G F Bedwell, dressmakers.212 The 1940’s and 50’s saw a number of different businesses, including Hobarts Household Stores, Eric Crago photography studios, Arthur L Logan dentist, and C S Lucas drapers.213 Occupants from the 1960s to early 2000 cannot be established due to a lack of information. In 2008, the ground floor of the building was home to Simplicity, in 2010 the Garlic Press, and today (2017) it is occupied by Café Turquoise. This history is incomplete in the absence of ownership information.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description Morey & Son is a distinctive Edwardian commercial building, designed in an elegant Neo-Classical style by a capable architect, and richly ornamented and decorated.
The architectural composition is formal and symmetrical about the centreline. The façade is divided into three bays, a narrow bay with a single window on either side flanking a double-width central bay with two windows; this bay is emphatically capped with a semi-circular pediment above the parapet. The bays are separated with fluted Corinthian pilasters, each standing above a moulded sill line on a pair of scroll brackets, which extend through the entablature and up to the parapet, conferring a tall vertical proportion to the façade. The entablature is formed of a large moulding above the column capitals and a simplified Ionic cornice with dentil mouldings under (the side pilasters run into fluted corbels that capture the ends of the cornice). Above this the parapet is the same height as the entablature and is capped with a reduced version of the cornice mould; the distinctive semi-circular pediment in the centre takes the same moulding profile as the cornice. The tall timber windows are deeply recessed into the façade; the sill moulding follows around from the pilasters. The windows have a semi-circular fanlight and are set into a moulded surround – pilasters to the sides and a semi-circular arch with a prominent keystone at the head.
206 Taranaki Herald, 14 December 1872, p.2 207 Taranaki Herald, 22 February 1873, p.1 and Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1934 208 Taranaki Herald, 7 June 1915, p. 4 and Taranaki Herald, 30 June 1915, p.2 209 Taranaki Herald, 14 July 1915, p.8 210 Taranaki Daily News, 22 July 1915, p.5 211 Jane Tolerton, 'Clothing and footwear manufacturing - Māori and colonial clothing', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/clothing-and-footwear-manufacturing/page-1 (Accessed 1 September 2017) 212 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1939. 213 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1942 – 1957.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 95 There is a row of fanlight windows just above the verandah, which appear to be covered from the inside. These are symmetrically divided but do not follow the pattern of the façade above, instead reflecting the original arrangement of shop-fronts below the verandah. The stayed verandah, which has been detailed to reflect the building’s pediment, is a modern replacement of the original post and beam verandah. The shop front below the verandah is modern.
The side walls appear to be brick. Behind the façade, the building has a long rectangular plan, covered with a simple hipped roof, that occupies the whole of the site except a tiny rear yard. The apex of the roof aligns with the parapet.
Assessment Historical This building has historical significance for its century and more of continuous commercial use. It is primarily notable for its very long association with drapers. This connection extends to the previous building on this site, dating back to 1872. Morey and Sons, who built this building, were the most important of the various drapers who occupied this building over its history. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction Morey & Son is a very capable example of Edwardian Neo-Classical architecture set in the commercial heart of New Plymouth. It stands out from its neighbours for its rich ornamentation and detail. Setting and Context Morey & Son stands out in the local streetscape for its design and scale and its distinctive silhouette, and it is part of a very significant group of heritage buildings in this section of Devon Street. It makes a strong positive contribution to the heritage values of the area. Archaeological The preceding building on this site was constructed in 1872. Rarity, representativeness, The main part of the elevation is more or less integrity unchanged from its construction in 1915. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Veale’s Building
Site ID 126 (Proposed DP), 1272 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Veale’s Building Address 85 Devon Street West, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance Veale Building, including the site it occupies, has historic significance for its connection with two generations of the Veale family. The building was commissioned and owned by John Veale, the son of an early New Plymouth settler, also John Veale, who built and occupied an earlier building on the site. The building is also notable for its long occupation by a succession of jewellers, particularly Dalgleish’s, a business that still continues in New Plymouth to this day. Veale’s Building has architectural value in its simple but well-executed Stripped Classical design. It has a high level of technical importance as one of the first reinforced concrete buildings constructed in Taranaki. Veale’s Building is part of a very important group of heritage buildings at this end of Devon Street that collectively defines the historic character of the area.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Pt Sec 665, New Plymouth TN District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1913 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals Sanderson & Griffiths (architects); Coleman & Son (builder)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 97 History This concrete building at 85 Devon Street West was built in 1913 for John Veale (then resident in Auckland). It is the third building on this site, replacing a succession of wooden buildings that had been constructed for the Veale family.
The first building constructed on this site was a wooden structure built in the late 1860s for John Veale Junior, a grocer.214 In 1882, the old premises were removed and a new timber building erected for Veale by contractor A. Douglas. It was designed by well-known local architect James Sanderson.215
In 1911, C H Drew moved into the building and began operating his watchmaking, jewellery and optician business.216 On 30 May 1913, a building permit for commercial premises was issued to Arthur Veale at an estimated cost of £2,090.217 The new building, designed by Sanderson & Griffiths and built by Coleman & Son, was completed in December that year and was thereafter known as Veale’s Building. The Taranaki Herald described the new building as a peculiarity due to its construction being almost entirely out of reinforced concrete, one of the first of its kind seen in New Plymouth.218 Allan Veale, a grocer and probably related, had his premises across the road next to the Theatre Royal. It burnt down in the great fire of 1916 that also destroyed the theatre and many other buildings.
Drew operated in the new building until 1916, when he sold his business to Harry Garnham,219 who carried on the business for a further five years before selling it to Virtue Dalgleish in 1921.220 Dalgleish ran the business for over 30 years until his death in 1951. The building was even known as Dalgleish Buildings. At this point, Virtue’s son, Ian Dalgleish, an accountant who had been based in London, returned from overseas to manage his father’s business.221 After a failed attempt to buy the building from the Veale family in 1956, Ian Dalgleish relocated Dalgleish Jewellers further east along Devon Street, before moving back to Veale’s Building in 1959 when the Veale family finally decided to sell after a 38-year leasehold.222
In 1967, the building underwent extensive renovations to accommodate Dalgleish’s expanding business. The plans were initially prepared by the architectural branch of the Omega Watch Co., and further developed by the local firm of Bowering, Thomson, Boon and Co.:223
The front and the interior of the old shop, including concrete dividing walls, were removed and, apart from the walls on each side, the building has been rebuilt. It was also extended over a grassed area at the rear of the original shop... It was essential to enlarge customer floor space. This has been extended from 833 to 2482 square feet, plus 732 square feet of service area.224
Ian Dalgleish and his wife Betty retired in 1992 and Dalgleish Jewellers was sold to Gary and Heather Hutchings who eventually moved the business to 7 Devon Street West where it remains today.225 Bill Roy, a manufacturing jeweller, bought the business in 2005 and continues to trade under the Dalgleish name.226 The building was owned for a period by DK Ltd.
214 Taranaki Herald, 12 December 1967, p.13 and ‘History of this Site Dalgleish Archive’ Puke Ariki Collection ARC2008-081 215 Taranaki Herald, 25 April 1882, p.3 216 Taranaki Herald, 19 April 1911, p.7 217 ‘History of this Site Dalgleish Archive’ Puke Ariki Collection ARC2008-081 218 Taranaki Herald, 16 December 1916, p.4 219 The article in the Taranaki Herald, 12 December 1967, p.13 states that Drew sold the business to Garnham at the end of World War One, however, the newspaper article from the Taranaki Daily News, 19 August, p.4 shows that Garnham took over from Drew in 1916. 220 Taranaki Herald, 12 December 1967, p.13 221 Ibid. 222 A speech prepared for "Ascot" members, Tainui Village, by L.M. (Betty) Dalgleish, ARC2008-81, Puke Ariki; Taranaki Herald, 12 December 1967, p.13 223 Taranaki Herald, 12 December 1967, p.12 224 Ibid. 225 Taranaki Daily News, 9 December 2016 226 Ibid.
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In 2005 the Indian restaurant Pankawalla opened on the ground floor of the building and it continues to operate there today (2017). The other occupant is lawyer Trevor Knowsley.
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description This two-storey Edwardian commercial building shows an early example of the use of a Stripped Classical style, and is a very early example of the use of reinforced concrete in New Plymouth (perhaps the first in the CBD area). The façade above the verandah is almost unchanged from its original appearance. It is symmetrically composed and lightly decorated, with an array of three equal windows with stylised keystones above, separated by a plain wall surface with raised panels between the windows (the windows may be more modern replacements). The keystones engage with a simple entablature, surmounted with a Doric cornice that has console brackets and a dentil moulding below. Above the cornice the parapet has a raised central section with a pilaster either side. The cantilevered verandah may well be the original concrete construction, although there is no trace of the original pressed metal soffit linings. Below the verandah the shop-front is entirely modern (although the door to the first floor on the left, and the recessed entry to the right follow the original locations). The roof plan illustrates a long history of expansion. The main shop at the front of the site is covered with a simple hipped roof, which likely is the original form. Beyond this lies a succession of lower flat-roofed additions, running out to a tiny yard at the back of the property. The building is one of a group of important heritage buildings in this part of Devon Street; its immediate neighbours include to the left and the former New Plymouth Savings Bank – one of New Plymouth’s very finest buildings – to the right.
Assessment Historical This building has historical importance, firstly for its very long association with the Veale family, an early and important New Plymouth family. Secondly, it is significant for the succession of jewellers who occupied the building, particularly the Dalgleish family, who leased and then owned the building over two generations. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The building is an interesting early example of the use of a Stripped Classical style. It is important for its construction, as one of the first reinforced concrete buildings in the city. Setting and Context The building is part of a major group of important heritage buildings at this end of Devon Street, and it makes a positive contribution to the heritage values of the area. Archaeological The site has been occupied since at least the 1860s. Rarity, representativeness, – integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 99 Arizona Takeaways
Site ID 127 (Proposed DP), 1273 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Arizona Takeaways Address 91 Devon Street West, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance The building has a high level of historic significance for its association with the hugely influential Skinner family who owned the building for a number of decades; for its long commercial history in central New Plymouth and for its occupation by the Arizona takeaway business since 1965, a remarkably long time for such a business to survive. It has architectural significance for its modest Neo-Classical design. The building stands out in the local streetscape for its simple style and light timber construction. It is an important element of a substantial group of old buildings in this part of Devon Street.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot D DP 296 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction Early 1880s Principal Materials Timber; corrugated steel cladding to sides Construction Professionals –
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History Constructed in the early 1880s, this is one of New Plymouth’s oldest extant commercial buildings. Thomas Kingwell Skinner, a butcher by trade, and Prudence Veale arrived in New Plymouth on the Oriental in 1841 and later married; they were among the were among the original Plymouth Company settlers. Thomas received the Crown Grant for Town Section 664 in 1856. Their sons William Henry Skinner (surveyor, ethnologist and historian) and Thomas Kingwell Skinner, jnr. (also a surveyor) were both born in New Plymouth and became notable local identities in their own right, the latter going on to be New Plymouth’s first county council engineer.
Definitively dating the building is difficult. There was a building on or very near this site by 1880, the year that a map of central New Plymouth was produced by the younger T K Skinner (his father died in 1870). An advertisement in July 1878 by architect H Taylor sought tenders for the ‘erection of a shop and offices for Mr Skinner [labour-only] on Devon Street’.227 This likely refers to a neighbouring building, but may refer to this one (it is not clear which Mr Skinner commissioned the work). A building close by was occupied about August 1879 - almost a year after Taylor placed the advertisement. Supporting the fact it might be this section is the fact that a mortgage was taken out against section 664 in June 1878,228 not long before the tender was advertised.
An image from the early 1880s shows a tiny single-storey building with a gabled roof and large display window more or less alone in the streetscape with no neighbouring buildings. It has T Petty emblazoned across the gable, and was occupied by cabinetmaker Edward Thomas Petty. The first time Petty featured in a newspaper advertisement (although he was endorsing a product not his business) was in mid-1881.229 If the present building is the same one and was specifically built for Petty, this would support a date of construction of about 1881. It was certainly constructed by 1884, as it is present on a map of New Plymouth dated 1884230 with Petty is listed as the occupier. Finally, an annotation on the survey of his mother’s property prepared in 1889 by T K Skinner gives the date of construction of Petty’s shop as 1883.231 Petty’s shop was at the front of the property; his workshop was at the rear.
If the building began life as a single-storey, the date of its conversion to a two-storey structure is also not definitely known. It is possible that it was undertaken fairly early on in the building’s life, or it accompanied a change of occupant in 1904. In January that year, Petty, who was by then describing himself as a cabinetmaker, upholsterer and general house furnisher, announced that he was giving up business.232 The shop was taken over by furniture dealers Baker and Co. in March that year and the business hired architect Frank Messenger to make changes to it. A contemporary newspaper account mentions the “considerable enlargement” of the ground floor showroom and an internal staircase and a new showroom on the second floor,233 which would align with it being expanded to a two-storey building. In 1916, the building was scorched by the great conflagration centred on the Theatre Royal across the road.
In 1918, the upper floor was taken over by the New Plymouth Commercial School. It intended teaching night classes (and later day classes) in book keeping, shorthand and typewriting.234 The school must have been short-lived because by the following year that space was occupied by Valentine Duff. Baker and Co. was in business until the early 1930s, when it was replaced by Ben Somerville a furnisher.235
227 Taranaki Herald, 28 June 1878, p.3 228 Taranaki Land District Deeds Indexes (23516), c.1858 - c.1928, Archives New Zealand 229 Taranaki Herald, 5 August 1881, p.3 230 Plans of the Centre Portion of New Plymouth, Skinner & Sole Surveyors, 1884, ARC2006-19, Puke Ariki 231 Plan of Subdivision of 664, 1889, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 232 Taranaki Daily News, 11 January 1904, p.3 233 Taranaki Herald, 26 May 1904, p.5 234 Taranaki Daily News, 26 February 1918, p.1 235 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1927-1957
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 101 A steady turnover of occupants followed, Bennis Paterson Ltd. in the late 1930s, followed by the New Plymouth Gas Co. and then N P Lucas, drapers in the 1940s, and Cook and Lister, sporting equipment, in the 1950s.236 C A Wilkinson followed in 1960. By this time the building was owned by Anthony Sheehan, a draper.237
The building’s longest-standing occupant has been Arizona Takeaways (now Arizona and Rye), which has been in the building since 1965, a remarkably long time for a fast food outlet. Sheehan died in 1969 and the building was sold to Brooklands Milk Bar Ltd in 1972. The property was sold to accountant Francis Hareb, solicitor Donald Christian (one half) and Audrey Zavos (one half) in 1989. Upon Audrey Zavos’ death in 1998, Hareb and Christian took her share as executors.238
In 2002, the building was sold to Rustic Jim’s Ltd. It was then sold to China Cabinet Ltd in 2011. They remain the owners.239 Fashion company Lushington Jackets currently occupies a large portion of the ground floor: a long and narrow boutique coming off the street front, backing on to a workroom wrapped around behind Arizona and Rye.
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description This is a modestly-scaled Victorian two-storey timber commercial building, located in the heart of the CBD. The main elevation is an interestingly modelled and attractive Neo-Classical composition. Wholly symmetric, it is framed by tall reeded pilasters at either side that carry large acanthus-leaf scroll brackets run into cubic blocks. The blocks form stop-ends for an elaborate moulded cornice, with console brackets and a dentil course. The two tall double-hung windows are set high up in the façade, evenly spaced across its width. These are capped with broad flat hoods and follow the detail of the main section of the façade – each hood has a moulded and dentiled trim underneath, supported on shaped blocks and elaborate acanthus-leaf scroll brackets with fluted facings below. Early photography shows the building has been reduced somewhat from its original state; it had triangular pediments atop the first floor windows and a high balustrade parapet above, with small urns as finials. It was fitted with a simple post and beam verandah. The stayed verandah is a modern replacement (ca. 1950s) of the original, and the frameless glass shop-front below the verandah is entirely modern. The gabled form of the building is extruded over most of the length of the site to make a long and slender building, leaving a small yard accessed from the adjacent public right of way. Behind the street façade, the building is clad with modern vertical corrugated steel, trimmed with a small assortment of old and modern windows and doors. Despite its modest size and some impressive neighbours, it nevertheless is distinctive in the streetscape – in part due to the flat façade of the adjoining modern building on the left and an air gap to the old building on the right. The building is part of an important group of heritage buildings in this section of Devon Street, and is a key member of a noteworthy row of old timber commercial buildings running up the hill. It makes an interesting contrast with its much larger early 20th century neighbours, including the New Plymouth Savings Bank and the former AMP building.
236 Ibid. 237 CT TN243/33, LINZ 238 Ibid. 239 Ibid.
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Assessment Historical The building is likely to be one of the very oldest commercial buildings still standing in New Plymouth. Its association with the Skinner family is significant; although the family never occupied the building (and possessed other buildings in the vicinity), it did own it for a considerable period. The Skinners were one of Taranaki’s most important settler families, with several generations making a strong contribution to public life in a variety of ways. The building also has value for its long association with Arizona Takeaways, now standing at over 50 years. Importance to Community There is likely to be a lingering connection by the community to takeaway institution that has lasted as long as Arizona Takeaways has. It must be among the most enduring takeaway outlets in New Zealand. Architecture & Construction The main elevation has an attractive Neo-Classical Victorian style. The overall form of the building is unlikely to have changed since 1904. Setting and Context The building is part of an important group of very old timber commercial buildings in this part of Devon Street, and also of the group of other heritage buildings in the wider area. It makes a strong positive contribution to the heritage values of the area. Archaeological The site is known to have been occupied since at least 1881, so it has the potential to reveal information about the past through archaeological investigation. Rarity, representativeness, This is a rare example of a surviving Victorian integrity commercial building in the CBD. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 103 First Taranaki Club Building
Site ID 128 (Proposed DP), 1287 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name First Taranaki Club Building Address 28 Egmont Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance The former Taranaki Club building has historic importance for its long association with two of Taranaki’s important social institutions – The Taranaki Club and the RSA. Designed very much as a large late Victorian villa, it has architectural value in its domestic design, and has technical interest for the way the additional floor appears to have been created. It stands out in the local streetscape for its domestic design and scale, and light timber construction. It is part of a group of important heritage buildings on Egmont Street.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 4853 District Plan Item/ Map No. Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1898 Principal Materials Timber Construction Professionals Sanderson & Messenger (architects, second storey addition)
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History This building was the first purpose-built Taranaki Club - a single storey clubrooms built in 1897. A second storey addition in 1906 transformed it into the building seen today.
The first Taranaki Club, one of Taranaki’s earliest institutions, was housed in a rented cob cottage in 1842. What became of this body is not known but another Taranaki Club was formed in 1861. It again used rented accommodation and was short-lived, only lasting until 1865. The institution was revived in 1892 and a building in Egmont Street was leased for two years. The land itself, part of which included the bed of the Mangotuku Stream, was owned by the New Plymouth Harbour Board (NPHB), which was granted the land as part of a reserve. The new club attracted many of the city’s prominent businessmen and within a short period of time, 106 members were signed up. It now clearly filled a need. Newton King, arguably the province’s most prominent businessman during his lifetime, spent many evenings in the club.
Soon, the search was on for new premises to cater for the rising membership. The decision was made to construct a new purpose-designed clubhouse on the site of the rented rooms. The simple story is that the job was given to the prolific and well-known local architect James Sanderson. Tenders were called in March 1897.240 The contractor was Robert Coleman. However, Tullet described the process of commissioning the building as rather convoluted.
It was decided to build a one-storey clubhouse on the leased site; then a two-storey building; and plans were again altered to a single-storey structure. This was approved by the club, quotes were obtained, plans and specifications drawn up, architects were commissioned and a mortgage arranged. At one of the many special general meetings the scheme was dropped; tenders were declined and all money returned…241
It was quickly apparent that the clubrooms were insufficient to cater for the increasing membership and in 1903 Frank Messenger drew up plans for additions to the building.242 What happened to those plans is not known. In 1906, Sanderson was called back to add a first floor. Tenders were called in May that year.243 Unusually, it appears as if the work was carried out by raising the original building and constructing a new ground level underneath. The successful contractor is not known. The year before this took place the club played host to Ernest Rutherford (later Lord Rutherford) New Zealand’s most famous scientist, whose accomplishments were such that a local newspaper described him as ‘New Zealand’s most famous son.’244 The clubrooms were used for a wide variety of purposes beyond socialising. Billiards exhibitions were an early entertainment and cards (for stakes) was a common member activity.
The First Taranaki Club Building when it was single storey, c.1898. (Earp and Co. A.2b.29, Puke Ariki)
240 Taranaki Herald, 20 April 1897, p.2 241 Tullet, J.S. 1981, An Industrious Heart; A History of New Plymouth, New Plymouth City Council p.171 242 Taranaki Herald, 26 October 1903, p.3 243 Taranaki Herald, 16 May 1906, p.7 244 Taranaki Daily News, 16 June 10-5, p.2
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 105 Despite the extra floor, the club became dissatisfied with its premises and it undertook a search for a site to build a replacement. It settled on a property on the corner of Queen and St Aubyn Streets in 1919. Designed by well-known local architect Thomas Bates, the new Taranaki Club opened in 1922.
In 1926, the property, including the former club, was leased from the NPHB by Fred and Gordon Hooker, whose business premises were next door (and also leased from the NPHB).245 It is not exactly clear from street directories what the building was used for initially. In 1931, the New Plymouth branch of the Returned Soldier’s Association took over the building and in 1944 they purchased the lease from Harbour Board. They remained lessees / owners for the next 46 years, although they were not always listed as occupants. In 1946, for instance, the Social Security Department and Registrar of War Pensions were renting the building, at least in part.246 By the early 1950s the RSA was sharing the building with The Wholesale Sample Rooms - carpet, furnishings and Manchester retailers.247
The RSA finally left the building in 1990 and moved into new clubrooms in the Te Ara Building in Devon Street East. The building was then sold to the New Life Christian Fellowship Community Trust.248 This church began life as the New Plymouth New Life Christian Fellowship in 1980 and despite a number of name changes the building remains its home. It is now known as the CityLife Church.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description From Egmont Street, the former Taranaki Club building appears very much as a large late Victorian villa, with little indication of what lies behind it. Befitting a gentleman’s club it is set back from the street edge, in contrast to its commercial neighbours. Its immediate setting has changed significantly over time; the later Hooker’s building butts sharply into the corner bay window on the south side (perhaps suggesting a boundary line issue), while it is nearly as restricted on the other side by an odd single-storey addition right alongside the modern shopping mall. Two storeys high, the building has a tall vertical proportion that complements its domestic character. It has a moderately pitched roof covered in corrugated steel; the walls are clad in rusticated weatherboards and the external joinery is timber, largely composed of double-hung windows. Overt ornamentation is confined to the gable ends, which project forward of the main wall face on console brackets and there are decorative boards laid into the gables. The main elevation still retains a strong Victorian character in the materials, complexity of form and proportions used. The composition is asymmetrically arranged, but carefully balanced. The main entrance is more or less in the centre of the building, underneath a closed-in porch; above this is a pair of slender double-hung windows. To the left of the entry is a chamfered two-storey bay window, set at 45° to the main plan, with double-hung windows in each facet. This is visually counterbalanced with a rectilinear bay on the right of the entrance, which has two conjoined pairs of double-hung windows at the ground floor – these are reflected at the upper level, although this part of the bay projects slightly forward of the lower part and has windows in the short return walls. The roof plan is a complex sequence of hips and gables that mark the main elevational features; aerial photography shows large additions to the north and west (the latter rather larger than the original building) that fill up the whole of the site. The building shares this section of Egmont Street with some interesting and important neighbours, including Hooker’s building next door, and slightly further south the former State Fire Insurance building, Egmont Chambers and the former AMP building at the Devon Street corner. It nevertheless stands out in the local streetscape for its domestic character and timber construction, as well as for the distinctive set-back from the street edge.
245 CT TN116/182, Land Information New Zealand 246 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1946 247 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1952 248 http://www.citylife.org.nz/history/ [retrieved 25 August 2017]
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Assessment Historical The building has historic value for its association with the Taranaki Club, and further value for an even longer association with the RSA. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The building appears as a substantial Victorian villa and is architecturally interesting for its asymmetric composition and tall vertical proportions. Setting and Context The building is part of a group of important heritage buildings on Egmont Street. It stands out in the streetscape for its domestic scale and design and timber construction. It makes an interesting and positive contribution to the heritage values of the area. Archaeological The building has occupied the site since 1892. Rarity, representativeness, – integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 107 Kelsey’s Building
Site ID 129 (Proposed DP), 1289 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Kelsey’s Buildings Address 43-49 Devon Street East, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance Historically, Kelsey’s Buildings has significance for its long commercial history (since 1904) and in particular the continuous occupation of the western half of the building in the first half of the 20th century by grocers, most notably Gadd’s. The building is architecturally significant for its richly detailed and finely executed Neo-Classical design, once typical of the CBD, and its construction in rendered masonry. The building stands out in a stretch of central-city streetscape that is otherwise largely populated by bland two-storey modern buildings. Together with the nearby Darby & Hannan building it makes a strong contribution to the character and heritage value of the area.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lots 1 and 2 DP 2343, Subdivision 3 DP3597 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1904 Principal Materials Brick Construction Professionals Frank Messenger (architect); R Coleman (builder).
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History This two-storey, semi-detached brick building was built in 1904 as a commercial investment for New Plymouth accountant, Mr Thomas Kelsey. It was designed by local architect Frank Messenger and the principal contractor was R. Coleman. Tenders were called in January 1904249 and the building was completed later that year. Kelsey, a successful businessman, died in 1908.
In August 1905, the Exchange Mart opened in the building.250 Later that year, Kelsey sold the building to Bates and McCaskill, who intended opening a department store and extending it to Gill Street.251 However, a newspaper report from early the following year revealed that the building was sold to the Stores Company to open a grocery store.252 The nature of the internal arrangements at the time are not exactly known but a suitable space was obviously able to be found in April 1905 for shows by Paul Delano, described as a ‘tattooed marvel’ and ‘expert juggler’.253
The principal purpose of the western half of the building for a long period was as a grocery. Gadd’s was the longest running of these. Frank Gadd and his wife Adah came from Langley in Worcestershire. Gadd was an established and successful grocer, with a chain of shops. However, according to ‘family sources’ Gadd decided to sell up and leave the country after discovering that some of his managers had been defrauding him. Gadd, his wife and the youngest three of his five sons emigrated to New Zealand in December 1913, arriving in New Plymouth early the following year. He had two brothers already living in New Zealand, which may have eased the decision. The new business started in a different building before the move to Kesley’s Buildings in 1915. Frank Gadd died in 1924 but his sons (Rupert, Jack and Frank jnr.) continued the business until the second half of the 20th century.254 The business finally closed in the early 1950s.
Other long-standing occupants of the building included butchers J.S. Wilson and Norman Walsh and various fish merchants and fish and chips outlets, including Sydney Howarth.255 At some point, most likely after the Wairarapa earthquakes in 1942, the ornate parapet with its urns and pediment was removed. Later (probably in the 1950s or early 1960s), the verandah, which had been supported on posts, was changed to a stayed arrangement suspended from the façade.
By 1964, the building was owned by Jurys Meat Market Butchery and Delicatessen. Cargo Studios leased part of the first floor of one half of the building. In 1968, the building was sold to fruiterer George Joe Low and his wife Jean. In 1978, John Eagles and Kevin Landrigan bought the building. Landrigan’s share was transferred to Basin and Joy Goldsack in 2003. The building was purchased by Lucky Star Holdings in 2007 and then by LKT Holdings (Lauren Tennant) in 2014.256 Recent tenants have included the Essence Gift Store (now Momentos), and butchers The Fridge.
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description This distinctive building is a fine example of late Victorian commercial building, dating to the turn of the 20th century. Its main elevation remains almost intact above the verandah, save for the parapet that was removed after the 1942 Wairarapa earthquake. Designed by local architect Frank Messenger, the building is an accomplished example of Neo-Classical architecture, as favoured for high-quality construction at the time. The composition of the main façade is formal and symmetric, with heavy modelling and decoration that creates strong shadow lines and a high level of visual interest. It is set out in 4 matching bays, divided by partially fluted square engaged Ionic pilasters, with a half pilaster at either side of the elevation where the main elevation meets into the boundary walls. Each bay has a pair of tall
249 Taranaki Daily News, 28 January 1904 250 Taranaki Herald, 5 August 1905 251 Taranaki Herald, 23 November 1905, p.7 252 Taranaki Herald, 5 August 1905, p.4 253 Taranaki Herald, 7 April 1905, p.5 254 Biographical information on the Gadd family courtesy of Frank Ernest Gadd (1864-1924) in https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Gadd-105 [retrieved 17 August 2017] 255 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1910-1955 256 CT A2/379, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 109 double-hung windows, with an aedicule consisting of a triangular pediment supported on Tuscan pilasters on either side; the plinth of the pilasters extends the width of the building as a datum line. The walls are rusticated, an interesting reflection of the prevalent timber construction in the CBD at the time. The Ionic pilasters support a tall entablature, which is capped with a strong projecting cornice with closely-spaced console brackets and a dentil course under. The original parapet sat on top of this cornice. The two main party walls are visible above the roof; the ends of these were originally left as exposed brick work (now painted). The façade is currently painted in two distinct halves. The original parapet contributed considerably to the character of the building. It had a high gabled pediment in the centre, with a coat of arms, flanked on either side by an open Ionic balustrade, divided with posts and capped by urns following the pattern of the façade below. The verandah is a modern stayed construction, hung off the first floor level, a replacement of the original post-and-beam verandah. There are no obvious remnant parts of the original building below the verandah, although the line of part of the shop-front may follow the original plan. The roof plan shows the building is constructed in two main parts, each aligning with two bays of the front façade. There is a service area at the rear of the building, accessed from Liardet Street. At the service area, the back of the western half of the building is a pile of modern lean-to additions; the back section of the eastern half appears to be a 190s-vintage addition, some three storeys in height.
Assessment Historical Built as a semi-detached investment property behind a common façade, this building has been occupied by many different retail occupants over its life. The primary historic value lies in the western half of the building, occupied by a grocer’s for at least half of its history. Arguably the most important of these was Gabb’s, a well known two-generation grocery in the first half of the 20th century. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction This commercial building stands out from its modern counterparts for its rich Neo-Classical design and elegant proportions. Setting and Context The building makes an interesting contrast with the nearby Darby & Hannan building – the other old building in this section of the block - and it stands out in the local streetscape. It makes a strong contribution to the character and heritage values of the area. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness This high-quality late Victorian building is typical of & integrity those that lined the streets of New Plymouth in the early 20th century, few of which now remain. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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St Paul’s Anglican Church, Urenui
Site ID 130 (Proposed DP), 717 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name St Paul’s Anglican Church, Urenui Address 25 Ngakoti Street, Urenui 4375
Statement of Significance St Paul’s Church, Urenui, is a fine example of 19th century country church. It is a building of great significance to the small settlement of Urenui, having served as the local Anglican church since 1888. The building’s completion can be partly attributed to the dedicated work of Arthur Halcombe, a man of some historic importance who had a varied and largely successful career before retiring to Urenui. The building is a well-formed example of country church architecture typical of its time. Although it has been altered and extended over the years, it retains a high level of physical integrity and authenticity.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Sec 51 Urenui TN District Plan Item/ Map No. - Heritage New Zealand List Category 2, List No. 817
Construction Information Date of Construction 1888 Principal Materials Timber frame, board and batten cladding, corrugated steel Construction Professionals Ernest Wickham (architect); Mr D Cooper (builder)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 111 History Urenui was a military settlement that formed around a redoubt built in 1865 for a garrison of British troops. By the mid-1870s, the small community of Urenui was visited regularly by an Anglican (then Church of England) minister doing the rounds of outlying settlements,257 but it did not have its own church. Fundraising for a church began at some point but exactly when is not certain. The members of the church had raised £49 by 1885, but there was a lack of direction in their efforts; a meeting in July that year was the first the committee had held since 1881.258 Where services were held is also not known but may have been in the local school hall, built in 1876 and the venue for church meetings. By 1887, the sum in hand had reached £55 and it was decided to call for tenders utilising the gift of a section of land by Captain Thomas Wilson. Nothing appears to have happened for at least another year, until an announcement appeared in the Taranaki Herald.259 It was placed by Arthur Halcombe. A former farm manager, immigration agent, Wellington Provincial Council secretary and treasurer turned farmer, Halcombe had retired to Urenui in 1886 and immersed himself in local affairs. It would seem likely that Halcombe’s leadership and organisational skills were key factors in getting the church built. Initially, the church turned down the tenders and amended the plan to reduce costs.260 Then it accepted the tender of builder C. Cooper of £143 for an unlined church. The design was the work of Ernest Wickham who seems to have mainly been a builder. He designed at least one other church, the Waitara Methodist Church (1903).261 Wickham and his sons assisted Cooper in the building of the Urenui church.262 It was finished by November 1888 and named St Paul’s. Clearly, great progress was made with fundraising in this period because the church was declared nearly debt free early in 1889.263 Again, much of this was due to the work of Arthur Halcombe. In 1892, Arthur Halcombe’s eldest daughter Annie was married in the church. The following year, his second daughter, Mary, better known as Lucilla, was also married at the church.264 Urenui’s relative isolation, and small population, meant St Paul’s had services conducted by a minister every second Sunday. On the interleaving Sundays there were lay preachers, one of whom was Arthur Halcombe. During the 1880s and 1890s, the Rev. F T Baker was responsible for Urenui and a number of churches in other towns and villages. Sundays were invariably a very long day for him, and succeeding ministers, although motor vehicles improved matters considerably. This arrangement lasts to this day, with services every second Sunday. There have been changes to the church but they have not been overly intrusive. In 1900, the church’s interior was finally lined, at a cost of £18-4-3, along with the purchase of an organ for £22- 10, and a font for £4. Electricity was put on in 1937. In 1958, the stained glass window was purchased from All Saints Church in Ponsonby and installed. In 1969, St John's in Waitara assisted with the construction of a vestry, including the installation of a basin, built-in sink unit, and a toilet.265 The following year, on 12 April 1970, the lych-gate at the entrance was dedicated by the Bishop of Waikato, Rev. John Holland.266 Today the church remains part of a circuit of country churches administered from New Plymouth. It is also used as the venue for country markets in summer. St Paul’s is one of only two churches built in Urenui and the only one to survive in situ.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
257 Taranaki Herald, 17 July 1875, p.2 258 Taranaki Herald, 29 July 1885, p.3 259 Taranaki Herald, 21 June 1888, p.3 260 Taranaki Herald, 26 July 1888, p.2 261 http://www.methodist.org.nz/files/docs/wesley%20historical/waitara%20100th.pdf [retrieved 11 September 2017] 262 Taranaki Herald, 22 November 1888, p.2 263 Taranaki Herald, 1 February 1889, p.2 264 Taranaki Herald, 1 March 1892, p.2 & 2 June 1893, p.2 265 The preceding list of changes comes from the Heritage Trail board outside the church. These have not been verified from primary sources. 266 Kete New Plymouth – reference needed
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Description St Paul’s is a modest country church, of a kind once found all over New Zealand. It is designed in a Gothic Revival style that was in common use by the Anglican church of the day, largely a result of the influence of the Ecclesiological Society (established in England in 1839) and its chief publication The Ecclesiologist. The Society advocated for a return to mediaeval Gothic architecture and liturgical practice as the appropriate style for Anglican worship, seeking a return to the glories of the middle ages, and its journal advised church builders on design accordingly.
St Paul’s has characteristic tall vertical proportions, emphasised by vertical board and batten cladding and slender timber windows, all sheltered under a steeply pitched gable-ended roof (covered in modern long-run corrugated steel). Sited on the west of the road, the church is oriented traditionally, with the stained glass altar window facing east. This means the entry porch is at the back of the building. There is a large gable-ended vestry at the south side, set at right angles to the nave.
The church is entered at the porch through a single diagonally-sheathed door with strap hinges, which is set under a small gabled porch roof, on the centreline of the building. This meets into a lean-to roof housing a small vestibule. There is a narrow pointed window on each of the side walls of the vestibule. Above the lean-to roof is a diamond-shaped lead-light window to the nave. The small but quite distinctive belfry, an elaborate timber construction finished with a wrought-iron cresting at the ridge, is located at the west end of the main roof.
The principal decorative feature of the building exterior is the stained-glass altar window, itself an unpretentious assembly of lancets with a trifoliate central piece, relocated from an old church in Ponsonby. The side windows are plain arrangements of casements and fanlights, glazed with obscure glass. The north windows are shaded with substantial projecting hoods. The vestry windows all have pointed glazing bars in the top lights, echoing the style of the main building.
The interior is similarly modest, but beautifully finished in native timbers, and is much as it would have been when the linings were completed in 1900 (aside from the door to the modern vestry); at the roof, heavy scissor trusses support purlins and sarking; the walls are covered with alternating panels of veed lining boards set at opposing diagonals, and there is a strong dado at the window sills; the floor is tongue and groove timber boards, with a carpet runner down the centre. The pews and altar may be original. The tall eastern window, although not original to the building, fits comfortably into its architecture and suffuses the interior with a soft light. Modern lighting is set unobtrusively on the trusses.
The church is placed in the middle of a large open site in the centre of Urenui, enfiladed by a small garden to the west and north and surrounded by mature trees (one of the oaks is protected). The modern lych-gate is set in a low stone fence at the street frontage and leads onto a concrete path that meanders to the entry past the north side of the church, terminating at a modern access ramp. A second branch leads to the vestry door on the south side of the church. Residential neighbours are set close by the three surrounding boundaries.
Assessment Historical St Paul’s has been a fixture of Urenui life since 1888, a significant period of time. It survives as the only church still standing in the town. Its historical significance lies in its central role in the life of the town, with thousands of services (including weddings, funerals and naming ceremonies) having taken place in the building. Its construction and early operation owes much to the work of Arthur Halcombe, an historical figure of some consequence in 19th century New Zealand and whose talents were put to use in the service of the church.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 113 Importance to Community St Paul’s is an important structure for the people of Urenui and its use in the service of the community continues to this day. Architecture & Construction The church has some architectural interest, particularly for the elaboration of the west end. Its design is quite refined given it was the work of someone who was mostly a builder. Setting and Context The church remains in an open setting. Although set back from the street, it is an important local landmark; it is given some prominence by the open space around it, and the lych-gate signifies its presence in wider views. Archaeological The building was completed in 1888 and there may be some evidence of its construction and use that could be located using archaeological techniques. Rarity, representativeness This is an interesting example of a small and modest & integrity country church, once common in the region. It has considerable level of physical integrity inside and out. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Urenui Abattoir
Site ID 131 (Proposed DP), New (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Urenui Abattoir Address SH3, Urenui
Statement of Significance This is a place of considerable heritage significance. It may be the only 19th century rural abattoir still standing in Taranaki, if not the country. For the same reason, it also has great representative value as a 19th century abattoir. It has local historic significance for its near century of use as an abattoir and supplier of meat to the Urenui district from the time of its construction in 1879. The building has architectural and technical interest for its design and the materials and methods used in its construction, and although it has been modified over time the changes have been modest in scope and it retains a great deal of physical authenticity. The overall site appears to be largely unmodified and is likely to contain considerable sub-surface evidence of its long-standing use.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 484972 District Plan Item/ Map No. - Heritage New Zealand List -
Construction Information Date of Construction 1879 Principal Materials Timber; corrugated iron Construction Professionals Not known
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 115 History There is little known about the history of this building. It was probably built about 1879, but by who is not known. There was a report in the Taranaki Herald of a ‘slaughter-house’ under construction at Urenui that year.267 Thereafter, the occasional references to a slaughter-house at Urenui only refer to one place, so in the absence of any evidence to the contrary, it may be assumed that there has only been one abattoir at Urenui in its history. Licensing of slaughter-houses, or abattoirs, came under the jurisdiction of the local authority, in this case the Clifton County Council, based at Waitara. The first licensee recorded in newspapers was J Crozier, in 1884.268 From 1912 to 1914, if not earlier, the license was held by Charles Rowe, who was also, from 1877, the storekeeper at Urenui.269 Rowe ran stables and a coaching service and owned property in Urenui. He was even an acting coroner at one stage.270 Although Rowe held the license, given his other interests he almost certainly did not work at the abattoir himself. Rowe owned a butcher’s shop and it seems likely that the abattoir was supplying his own shop (Urenui was a small place so a direct link between the abattoir and butcher’s is not unexpected). Rowe wished to retire and advertised his various holdings for sale in 1913,271 but seems not to have been able to sell them immediately. By 1916, the license was held by Ernest Bleakley, who also farmed at Urenui.272 That year, Newton King again advertised the land occupied by the abattoir (and other holdings) owned by Charles Rowe. It is not known if the sale was successful.273 The first certificate of title for the land was issued in 1929 and at this point it was owned by farmers Charles and William Wilson.274 The Wilson family remained owners of the land until 1988. Occupation of the abattoir is a less certain story. By the mid-20th century the abattoir was in the hands of the father of shearer and butcher Ian Jury.275 The latter worked for his father. The abattoir was still in use up until the 1970s, at which point it was converted into a residence of sorts. Evidence of this change of use is still obvious inside the building. It is not known when use of the building ended. There have been many changes to the main building, with replacement of some board and batten cladding and roofing iron, and the changes associated with the shift in use from abattoir to accommodation (internal framing and lining). There is a ramshackle lean-to to the rear (origins unknown) plus the remains of the surface of a yard. There are also the remnants (concrete foundations) of a small extension to the west. The age of the concrete base of the building is also difficult to date; it may also have been original. The land itself was purchased by George Whittaker, an airline employee of New Plymouth, in 1988.Two years later it was sold to Richard Singleton and Myra Cocker. In 1992, the property was sold to Peggy Paul and Alan Peterson, an oil production engineer.276 In 2006, Peggy Paul was replaced as an owner by Paul Franklin. Peterson and Franklin remain the owners (in 2017).277
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description The former abattoir is a compact rectilinear building with a tall and slender vertical proportion. Aside from more modern lean-tos at the rear and a modern window, it appears to be largely as it was when it was first constructed. It is a wholly utilitarian structure and its form and construction directly reflects its purpose and use. Nearly two storeys high (the height a function of hanging carcasses for
267 Taranaki Herald, 10 June 1879, p.2 268 Taranaki Herald, 6 June 1884, p.2 269 Cyclopedia Company Ltd, The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Taranaki, Hawke’s Bay & Wellington Provincial Districts], The Cyclopedia Company Limited, Christchurch p.145 270 Taranaki Herald, 7 May 1895, p.2 271 Taranaki Herald, 3 August 1913, p.7 272 Taranaki Daily News, 2 June 1916, p.3 273 Taranaki Daily News, 9 December 1916, p.8 274 CT TN129/31, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 275 Taranaki Daily News, 17 January 2017 276 CT TNG2/619, LINZ 277 CT 688242, LINZ
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dressing), it has a sharply pitched roof, covered in old corrugated steel and separated into two layers to provide ventilation, over walls with vertical board and batten cladding, set on a plastered concrete plinth. The internal floor is concrete. The building is largely framed in 4x2” rimu; the cladding is similarly rimu. The building has a single door opening on the narrow north end, a modern window on the east wall, and a larger double-door opening on the south wall. There is a second concrete plinth on the west side and the remains of paint on the wall face suggest a lean-to structure that has long since been lost. A further rough lean-to structure rests on the south wall and spans to an open store, also covered with a mono-slope roof. Inside, the remains of the conversion to living quarters are evident – there is a timber-framed floor, now rotted through and softboard linings peeling off the walls and ceiling. Above the ceiling the visible timber framing is all whitewashed. This has a hanging beam, set off-centre to the east and a small first floor gallery to the west side. The remains of old electrical services are visible (perhaps suggesting the building had a generator at some point). The site contains some evidence of a stock path from the road, paving and the remains of water troughs and the like. There are likely to be substantial archaeological remnants below the ground surface of the former stock-yards. The abattoir has an appropriate rural setting, in a paddock just to the east of Urenui township on the south side of the road. A small stream marks the west boundary of the site, a tall bank delineates the east side, and, beyond the abattoir building, much of the site is covered with mature trees.
Assessment Historical The historical value of this building rests largely on its local role as a provider of meat for consumption in the Urenui district. Although there is no absolute evidence, the likelihood is that the abattoir was still in operation nearly 100 years after it was built, a significant period. Importance to Community The building would have been well-known in the community until the 1970s. Architecture & Construction This is a utilitarian structure, one where the form of the building wholly reflects its function. It has particular interest for the nature of its construction and the materials used. Setting and Context It seems almost certain that the abattoir’s construction and use were tied directly to the sale of meat in Urenui township. The physical proximity to the town would bear this out, although the butcher’s shop no longer exists. Archaeological The area in and around the abattoir is likely to be rich in sub-surface remains. The use of archaeological techniques could do much to reveal this and the full extent of the abattoir operation. Rarity, representativeness, Abattoirs of this age, size and basic construction type integrity are remarkably rare, and this building may possibly be unique in the region, if not the country. There is no similar building on Heritage New Zealand’s List and, more than likely, no other building of its kind on any heritage list. Likewise, the building’s representative value is very high; there were hundreds of small abattoirs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in New Zealand. Of those, this may be the only one still standing in Taranaki, if not nationally. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 117 Exchange Chambers
Site ID 132 (Proposed DP), New (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Exchange Chambers Address 101 Devon Street West, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This building is significant as a surviving timber commercial building and for two main periods of its history; its ownership and occupation by accountant and commission agent Charles Mill (its builder) and another prominent businessman, E.P. Webster, and then its long use as a fruiterers in the middle decades of the 20th century. It is also the work of one of New Plymouth’s most important architects, Frank Messenger. More recently, its partial restoration can be seen as an important part of the rejuvenation of New Plymouth’s historic city centre.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 3, DP 782 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List –
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Construction Information Date of Construction 1895 Principal Materials Timber Construction Professionals Frank Messenger (architect); Robert Hooker (contractor)
History This building was constructed for Charles Thomas Mills (1864-1940) in 1895. Mills was born and lived his entire life in Taranaki. Originally a farmer in Toko, he moved to New Plymouth and began a career as a self-employed accountant and commission agent.
Mills was only 30 when he commissioned this building. He engaged local architect Frank Messenger to design the building. The contractor was Robert Hooker; Nathanial Hooker did the bricklaying and the painters were Messrs. Okeys, Arnold and Earp.278 The newspaper article that contained those details described Mills’ offices, which were clearly built of quality materials.
The main entrance is through a pair of glass swing doors, which leads into the public office…the ceiling of which is handsomely panelled in kauri and the walls papered. A brick strongroom is fitted in under the stairs. Opening off the public room is Mr Mills’ private office…and a Board room, which also has a panelled kauri ceiling…On the top floor there are four roomy offices.279
Mills married Kate Jackson in 1888 and they had four children. He was a captain in his district volunteers, a mason, and secretary of a number of companies and public organisations. As a young man he raced penny-farthings and shot in competitions.280 When he moved into his new building Mills listed the bodies and agencies that he served, which included the Taranaki County Council, Taranaki Hospital and Charitable Aid Board, Carrington Road Board, Standard Fire and Marine Insurance, Northern Insurance and National Mutual Life Association.281
Mills let the upstairs rooms and some of the early occupants included the Columbia System of Dress fitting, W H Broome, a tailor, and J C Davies, share-broker, accountant etc. In 1908 Mills sold his building to E P Webster and moved into rented accommodation next door. Webster, who was in a similar line of business as Mills, housed his staff in the front office and renovated the upstairs for Sladden and Palmer, surveyors,282 who remained in the building until the early 1930s.
The building was damaged in the major 1916 conflagration that took out a large block of buildings on the opposite side of the street.283 Webster retained his building until the late 1920s, acting as an agent for the likes of the South British Insurance, Newall Dairy Co. and Warea Co-op Dairy Co., and the Mortgage Loan and Agency Co.284
The ground floor was then occupied by fruiterers – firstly John Knight and then Charles Masters, who had a long tenure in the building.285 By the early 1980s the building was occupied by an amusement arcade.
Unable to located more information on late 20th century owners.
In 1999, Kina NZ Design + Artspace took over occupancy. During its tenure, the main façade has largely been restored.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
278 Taranaki Herald, 29 May 1895, p.2 279 Ibid. 280 Taranaki Herald, 9 May 1940 281 Taranaki Herald, 6 September 1895, p.1 282 Taranaki Herald, 1 September 1908, p.7 283 Taranaki Herald, 22 July 1916, p.7 284 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 1921 285 Ibid. 1927-1957
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 119 Description Located at the top of Devon Street West, Exchange Chambers is a quirky and interesting late Victorian commercial building. It is one of a small number of surviving timber buildings in the CBD, and its style and construction, and absence of a verandah, make it distinctive in the local streetscape. The building has been recently restored, largely by undoing inappropriate changes made in the mid-20th century and today presents a close facsimile of its original appearance. The main façade of the building is two storeys high and has a symmetric arrangement, but a covered-in right of way projects up to the main roof on the left side, creating a strong asymmetry in the overall elevation. The main section of the elevation is framed with heavy corner boards on either side, formed more or less as pilasters, with decorated blocks at the end of each run of cornice. It has an interesting arrangement of joinery at street level that creates a sort of arcaded effect. This comprises a wide display window with a segmental-arched head, flanked by a pair of panelled entry doors each with a semi-circular fanlight, all separated with rusticated pilasters. The lower wall face is clad with broad rusticated weatherboards, up to a cornice moulding; above this is a simple raised panel capped by the window sill line. The upper wall is clad with narrow rusticated weatherboards up to a second cornice – this one with a heavy projecting moulding and dentil blocks (early photos show the weatherboards were originally matching the size of those on the ground floor). The two double- hung windows at the first floor are evenly-spaced on the wall, and are finished with moulded facings and a prominent moulded head. The parapet above has a plain flat top, with a low segmental- arched central section (old photos show urns at the corners and the apex of the parapet, but these have long since been removed). This building is one of the few on Devon Street designed without a verandah, an attribute that helps draw attention to it in the local streetscape. Early photography shows it was originally built this way. A stayed verandah was added later in its life, perhaps in the 1960s, and removed in the early 2000s as the building was restored. Unusually for the CBD area, the sides and back of building can be seen from the adjacent public parking area. The side and back walls (and the back of the parapet) are clad with vertical corrugated steel, enlivened with a contemporary mural at ground floor level. It has a hipped roof over the main section, with a pair of brick chimneys and an interesting collection of lean-to structures appended to the back, including a partially hipped section at the ground floor, that suggests a progressive history of expansion. One old window shows at the first floor. There is a small grassed yard at the rear.
Assessment Historical Exchange Chambers has significance as a long- standing commercial building dating from the period when most of the city’s buildings were still being constructed of timber. It has had two notable periods of occupation; the first was by commission agents Charles Mill (the building’s first owner) and E P Webster, and the second (and longer) when it was a fruiterers. The design is the work of Frank Messenger, one of New Plymouth’s most prolific and influential architects. The partial restoration of the building’s facade earlier this century has played a part in the rejuvenation of the city centre. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The building has architectural value for its well considered and interesting architectural composition and simple but effective decoration. The building retains its original internal arrangement, with a retail space on the ground floor and offices (separately accessed) on the first floor.
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Setting and Context Exchange Chambers stands out in the local streetscape, largely due to the open space on the west, and the visual contrast of its interesting elevation with the bland façade of its modern lower neighbour to the east. In its immediate setting it is part of a group of rare Victorian timber commercial buildings (although the intervening building have been modified over time, it makes a very interesting pair with the contemporaneous Arizona building). It is also a very important part of an extended group of heritage buildings in this part of Devon Street, forming a visual anchor to the western end of the group. Archaeological _ Rarity, representativeness, Old timber commercial buildings are becoming integrity increasingly rare in New Plymouth so there is value in its form of construction. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 121 Salvation Army Young Peoples Hall
Site ID 133 (Proposed DP), New (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Former Salvation Army Young People’s Hall Address 40 Powderham Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance Erected in 1927 along with the adjacent Citadel, this building is historically significant for the important part it has played in the longstanding occupation and use of this site by the Salvation Army of over 50 years. The Army’s occupation of the area goes back even further to the turn of the 20th century. Commercial use of the site in recent decades is adding more layers to its rich history. As with the Citadel, the building appears to be very much as it was when it was first opened and it has a high level of physical authenticity. It has architectural interest for the way it was designed to be compatible with but separate from the Citadel, and together with the Citadel it forms a prominent part of the local streetscape, a contrast to the bland multi-storey neighbour immediately to its west. The building is part of an important group of heritage buildings in the vicinity, including the Citadel, Chatsworth House, and the former YWCA Community House that contribute strongly to the historic character of the area.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 2 DP 1156 District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
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Construction Information Date of Construction 1927 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete and timber Construction Professionals Gray Young Morton & Young (architects); Boon Bros. (builder)
History Built at the same time as the Salvation Army Citadel, and designed by the same architects, this building was opened on 4 June 1927 and served a variety of purposes for the Salvation Army in New Plymouth until 1976.
The Salvation Army arrived in New Zealand in 1883 and began operations in New Plymouth the following year. It rented accommodation before converting an existing timber building, owned by Mary and William Webster, on the corner of Brougham and Powderham Streets in 1898.
In 1927, having secured the corner property, the Salvation Army undertook a major development. It built a new citadel on the corner and behind it constructed what it called the Young People’s Hall. Both buildings were designed by the Wellington firm of Gray Young, Morton and Young. The total cost of the land and both buildings was £4,886.286 The complex was formally opened by senior commissioner James Hay of Australia on 4 June 1927.287
The rear building, which was accessed by a covered way and directly adjoined the Citadel, was not a hall as such. It contained an office, separate rooms for ‘primary children, boys’ and girls’ Bible classes, and corps cadets’,288 and a kitchen. It may have later have also been used as the headquarters of the Salvation Army in New Plymouth.
The Salvation Army moved to a new citadel in 1976 and in the early 1980s the complex was sold to Noremac Properties Ltd.289 It has leased out both buildings ever since. The former Young People’s Hall was first used as a café - the Citadel Café. In 1996, this was replaced by a rugby themed pub - the Ruck'n'Maul. In 2007 the fashion and furniture business ‘Et Vous’ opened in the building. Upmarket eatery The Social Kitchen is the present occupant.
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description This building is a very sparely decorated adjunct to the Salvation Army Citadel. Built at the same time and designed by the same architects, it is all but devoid of ornamentation, instead relying on a minimal amount of modelling and an interestingly balanced asymmetric composition – and its relationship to the citadel – to create architectural interest. Although the buildings share a common wall and street edge, the functional programmes of the hall and the citadel are entirely different. Rather than manipulate a single building to accommodate the functions of both programmes, the architects dealt with the disparity of functions simply and effectively by treating them as two separate, but architecturally compatible, buildings that happen to be conjoined. The hall is in two main sections. The section fronting the street is the same width as the citadel and has a gabled roof on the same orientation. Beyond this, the second, lower, section of the building is set at right angles and is covered with a hipped roof. Following the design of the citadel, the street elevation of the hall has a low horizontal parapet concealing the gutter, stepped up above that of the citadel. The main entry is housed in a slightly set-back section of façade that creates a visual distinction between the two structures. The entry passage runs through to the rear section of the building. It has a geometric tile floor and is housed
286 Taranaki Daily News, 6 June 1927, p.10 287 Ibid. 288 Ibid. 289 CTs TNF4/1154 & J1/787, Land Information New Zealand
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 123 under a semi-circular arch (echoing the form of the citadel’s side windows) balanced with a single narrow window centred above. The main part of the façade is in plane with the wall of the citadel. It is rhythmically but asymmetrically composed. At the ground floor a very large square shop window is counterbalanced with a smaller double-hung window to the right; above this is a raised panel displaying the incised building name. Over this is a neatly aligned row of four timber windows – a pair of narrow windows in the centre flanked by wider windows on either side; a lightly modelled cornice and plain parapet above echoes that of the citadel.
Assessment Historical This building, an adjunct to the former Citadel directly adjacent, is historically significant for its use by the Salvation Army for its youth oriented activities for nearly 50 years. As with many centres, the Salvation Army has played a prominent role in New Plymouth life and this was a building it constructed to facilitate its work. The building has had continuous commercial use since the early 1980s and this will assume increasing importance as the years pass. Importance to Community As well as its association with the Salvation Army, this building has been open to the public as a cafe, pub and restaurant in recent times so it is reasonably well known to the New Plymouth public. Architecture & Construction The hall is an architecturally interesting companion to the citadel. Setting and Context The hall and citadel are part of an important group of heritage buildings on Powderham Street. Together they make a strong positive contribution to the heritage values of the area. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, The building largely retains its entire, original front integrity façade and plan configuration. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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East End Building
Site ID 134 (Proposed DP), New (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name East End Buildings Address 280-290 Devon Street East, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This building has housed a mixture of commercial and residential tenants since its completion in 1926; it has historic significance for this length of activity and contribution to the life of the city at the eastern end of the CBD. The building has architectural value, in its quirky styling and detailing, and strong architectural rhythm, and it has very high streetscape value.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 16490 District Plan Item/ Map No. - Heritage New Zealand List -
Construction Information Date of Construction 1925-26 Principal Materials Concrete Construction Professionals John Rowe (builder and architect)
History James McNeill, a grocer, had this building constructed in 1925-26, as an investment. The builder, John Rowe, submitted a sketch of the building as part of the permit application290 (1 June 1925) and it is assumed that he designed the building. The estimated cost was £3,000. Street directories suggest that the new building replaced a row of old houses.291 Rowe’s plan showed only three bays of the building on Devon Street, some distance from its final form. This showed a ground floor
290 Sketch plan of shops for McNeill, New Plymouth District Council: Property file for East End Building, Puke Ariki (note the plan is either inverted or drawn for the wrong side of Devon Street, and it is not possible to discern which section of the site was built on first). 291 Wises New Zealand Post Office Street Directory, 1925
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 125 subdivided into two shops and a flat occupying the entire upstairs space.292 Two more permits were issued for the building in quick succession – on 23 December 1925 (for £1,000) and 3 February 1926 (for £1,200), which added more shops and flats to either side of the original building. With these additions the building presumably reached the extent that can be seen today.
John Rowe’s plan prepared for McNeill, 1925. (Puke Ariki Acc No PHO2006-166, Photo McGee Studios)
McNeill Buildings was never occupied by the man who gave the building its name. His shop was a block closer to town, a short distance west of the Gover Street intersection with Devon Street.293 McNeill and his horse and cart were a familiar sight in New Plymouth. Upon opening, it was occupied by a broad range of businesses - dairy, drapery, fruit shop, a gramophone maker, a ladies tailor and a home cookery.294 During the early period at least, the building had three first floor flats. There was also a regular turnover of occupants, with the exception of fruiterer James Roch and hairdresser William Revell, who were fixtures from the 1920s to the 1950s.295 By 1939, the building had assumed the name it has kept to this day – East End Buildings, presumably a reference to its location on the eastern edge of New Plymouth’s CBD. This name was also fixed in relief on the pediment above the building’s corner, along with the date (1925) and it is possible it was called this from the outset.
McNeill died in 1961, still the owner of the building. His executors, sons Harry and Charles McNeill and solicitor St Leger Reeves, retained the building until the latter’s death in 1973. At this point it was sold to Kingston Estates Ltd. In 1979 the building was bought by contractors Leo and Joseph Leuthart. Leo Leuthart later (in 1987) gave one half of his interest to Neoline Leuthart, who is presumed to have been his wife.296 During the 1980s, restaurants occupied part of the ground floor. The first-floor facade and building’s rear remains largely unchanged, while the shops on the ground floor have been modernised over the years, with new doors and external cladding and the like. In 1991, Noeline Leuthart’s quarter share passed to her children John Leuthart and Karen Watts. In 1993 they sold their share to Kajole Group Ltd, as did Leo Leuthart. Since 2008, the building has been owned by Heritage Properties (NP) Ltd.297
292 Sketch plan of shops for McNeill, New Plymouth District Council: Property file for East End Building, Puke Ariki 293 Wises New Zealand Post Office Street Directory, 1925 294 Wises New Zealand Post Office Street Directory, 1927 295 Ibid., 1927-1957 296 CTs TN126/169 and TNH4/740, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) 297 CT TNH4/740, LINZ
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In 2008, the building was home to café Crusty Corner, Creative Curtains, a hair salon, gift shop Shine and clothes shop Willo.298 The latter two were still there in 2017, along with Rig 66, a bar and café occupying most of the western end of the ground floor, clothing alterations and repairs shop Le Stitch-It and hair salon Meraki.
Reference Sources See footnotes
Description The East End Buildings is a substantial two-storey reinforced concrete commercial building of the mid-1920s. The design has a charming naivety to it in its quirky architectural style with some Queen Anne overtones and slightly asymmetric and arrhythmic composition, and was likely not the work of a trained architect. The building has two main frontages, a long run of four bays on Devon Street and a shorter return of two bays to Eliot Street, chamfered together at the external corner, which in turn is further emphasised by a semi-circular parapet. The bays of the building are somewhat irregular in width and suggest it was progressively put up in sections as land was acquired, with the set-out of each bay adjusted to suit the property titles. It is not clear from the original permit drawing which section was the first to be constructed, but it may well have been the easternmost section on Devon Street. The upper elevation, above the verandah, appears almost entirely original. Each bay features prominent bay windows (the number of which varies from bay to bay), with casements and fanlights and small hipped roofs, with stylised wreathes over, capped by a long flat parapet. The bays are delineated with shallow pilasters formed from the projecting ends of the party walls, ornamented with a simple rectilinear geometric motif at the parapet. This gives the building a strong overall architectural rhythm, intriguingly accentuated and counterpointed by the somewhat arrhythmic arrangement of the bay windows. The stayed verandah, largely concealed by over-sized modern hoardings, is likely to be the original. Aside from the location of the entry doors to the first floor tenancies (the glazed timber doors are probably the original), and the general pattern of the structural bays, there is little trace of the original building left below the verandah today. The East End buildings stand out in the local streetscape, for the prominent corner position and the impressive length of the structure on both street frontages, for its obvious age and character, and the quirky and interesting architectural style that contrasts strongly with the otherwise characterless modern buildings that fill the nearby area in all directions.
Assessment Historical East End Buildings has some historic value for its continuous commercial and residential use since its completion in 1926. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The building is distinctive for its quirky style that blends broad planar surfaces, Deco-ish motifs, and Queen Anne overtones; the pattern of bays, and bay windows, generates a strong architectural rhythm that wraps around the two street frontages and unifies the assemblage of structural bays of unequal widths into a coherent whole. Setting and Context The building is particularly prominent in the local streetscape, for its siting on a major corner in a relatively low-density area of the CBD, and for its obvious age and its scale and distinctive decoration and architectural rhythm. Archaeological –
298 See http://www.nz.open2view.com/properties/186189/tour#photo/9 [retrieved 21 August 2017)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 127 Rarity, representativeness, The upper floor of the building has remained largely integrity unaltered since its completion and has a high level of physical integrity. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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Boon Bros Building
Site ID 135 (Proposed DP), New (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Boon Bros Building Address 11 Gover Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance Boon Bros was a major construction firm in New Plymouth and rural Taranaki in the 20th century. Over its long history, it built hundreds of structures of all kinds throughout the region. This building, the company’s former main office, is the only known structure built by the company for their own purposes still standing in New Plymouth. The building appears to be much as it was when it was built, and it retains a high level of physical integrity. It is interesting for its reinforced concrete construction, and for its spare but elegant architectural design. Occupying a prominent corner site, it stands out for its scale, detail and architectural quality in an otherwise undistinguished and largely characterless section of streetscape on the north side of the CBD.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 13433 District Plan Item/ Map No. _ Heritage New Zealand List _
Construction Information Date of Construction 1926-27 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor (architects); Boon Bros. (builders)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 129 History This building, completed in 1927, was the office of Boon Bros. Ltd., a highly successful construction company based in New Plymouth. They were responsible for a great many buildings in New Plymouth, the Taranaki district, and beyond. Boon Bros. was formed in 1894 by John Walter Boon (1867-1929), Alfred Boon (1869-1941) and Josiah Wedgewood Boon (1873-1942), although the latter left in the early 1900s to go into business on his own. The partnership’s first successful tender (a hotel in Waipuku) was accepted in October 1894.299 Initially its offices and yard were located in Currie Street, but were moved to the corner of Gill and Gover Streets in 1902.300 It also had premises in Liardet Street. The firm, also trading as timber merchants, offered ‘timber, joinery, building materials, shop and office and fittings supplies’.301 In 1908, utilising its joinery tradesmen’s skills, the firm also took up trade as funeral directors (something other building firms did too). That same year it built a new factory at Gover Street.302 As the firm grew it was able to gain more building work, undercutting or otherwise outcompeting rivals and building a substantial presence in the city. The building on the corner of Gover and Gill Streets was erected in 1926-27 as the firm’s offices. The building permit was issued to Boon Bros on 23 November 1926 and the estimated cost was £1,500.303 The architects were the prominent local firm of Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor, who did a great deal of work with Boon Bros. over the course of several decades. By the time this building was constructed Boon Bros. held much of the land on Gover Street between Molesworth Street and the block facing Devon Street. The yard was located on the block between Molesworth and Gill Streets and the office, factories and various other buildings on the block between Gill Street and Devon Street, alongside the buildings owned by the motor vehicle business of L H Johnson Ltd. Boon Bros offered a full suite of building services, employing painters, paperhangers, plumbers, drain layers and electricians. It also owned and operated sawmills in the North Island. Although John Boon died in 1929 and brother Alfred followed him in 1941, the firm carried on. A company called Wedgewood Investments304 also operated from the building; this was presumably named after the family name carried by the Boon brothers’ father Josephia and brother Josiah. The purpose of this company is not known, but it was clearly linked to Boon Bros. The building escaped being burnt down in 1939 after a fire was contained in the joinery factory and did not spread to adjacent structures.305
Boon Bros Building to the left, with various other structures the firm occupied to the right, 1939. (Fred Butler 19 March, 1939, ARC2013-1426, Puke Ariki)
299 The date on the Boon Bros’ building says 1895. 300 Taranaki Daily News, 30 June 1902, p.3 301 Taranaki Daily News, 22 January 1900, p.3 302 Taranaki Daily News, 18 February 1908, p.3 303 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors’ Registers, Puke Ariki 304 Wises New Zealand Post Office Directory, 193?- 305 Press, 17 June 1939, p.22
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Exactly when Boon Bros finally closed is not certain. By 1965, the previously open yard was mostly covered by buildings and, by 1984, the buildings surrounding the offices were all gone. Boon Bros sold the building to Trade Union Centre in 1981. In 1992, farmers Warren and Claire Bolton bought the building.
Ten years later it was bought by two groups of three investors (a half share each) – Vaughan Everest, Kim Everest and Peter Butler, and Wayne Vincent, Anne-Maree Vincent and Carl Townsend. Everest, Vincent Ltd, accountants, took over occupation of the building at this point. The current owners, Edward Jane Investment Trustee Company and Isle Investment Trustee, purchased the building in 2007.306 The building is now (2017) occupied by Accounting Room Ltd. (formerly Everest, Vincent Ltd).
Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description Located on the north side of the CBD Boon Bros is a modestly-scaled four-square two-storey commercial building. It is constructed of reinforced concrete, with timber window joinery and a hipped roof of corrugated steel. The building is set on an open corner site with no neighbours immediately abutting it, meaning it stands out in the local streetscape and, unusually for a building in the CBD, all of its elevations are visible. It is designed in a spare and abstracted Stripped Classical style (likely reflecting the European trend toward Modernism and away from decoration that was gathering momentum at the time) but in a way that is nevertheless well modelled and creates an interesting interplay of light and shadow. The two principal elevations face north, to Gill Street, and west to Gover Street (slightly longer), chamfered together at the corner. The elevations are carefully proportioned and are more or less symmetrically composed. Prominent piers at each corner project above the parapet line to create an interesting silhouette. A heavy but stylised cornice with small brackets spans between the piers, over a modest entablature, which has the company’s name in relief lettering on both elevations. The walls are divided with a post-and-beam (trabeated) grid with pilasters rising to the entablature, where they are capped with stylised capitals. The windows are rectilinear pairs of casements with fanlights aligned neatly over the two storeys and are slightly recessed from the pilasters and divided with plain mullions; a sill moulding spans between the pilasters. The Gover Street elevation is slightly asymmetric; the main entrance is through a central pair of doors slightly elevated above the footpath; the bay to the right of this is a modern timber display window at the ground level and a triplet of windows above. The south elevation is blind, except for a modern access ramp leading to a side door; the east elevation is a smooth-plastered wall punctuated by a regular array of windows at the ground floor, with a number of small windows at the first floor. The building stands out for its scale, detail and architectural quality in a streetscape comprised of undistinguished modern buildings and car-parks. Its modern colour scheme further emphasises its architectural features.
Assessment Historical Boon Bros is an historically important business in the history of New Plymouth, having left an indelible mark on the city courtesy of the hundreds of buildings constructed by the firm. During its heyday in the first half of the 20th century, Boon Bros was a ubiquitous presence in the city and its success allowed it to build a substantial complex on the land bordering Gill and Gover Streets. Part of that complex, and the only structure left from it, is this office building.
306 CT TNF2/1018,
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 131 Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The building is notable for the capable use of a very spare architectural style to create visual interest. It appears to be substantially original. Setting and Context The building is very distinctive in the local streetscape; although isolated, it nevertheless has an important affinity with the other heritage buildings in the CBD. It stands out for its scale, detail and architectural quality. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, The exterior of the building appears to be all but integrity unaltered. This may be the only building that was occupied by Boon Bros still standing in New Plymouth. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
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New Plymouth Friendly Societies Dispensary
Site ID 136 (Proposed DP), New (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name Former New Plymouth Friendly Societies’ Dispensary Address 42 Devon Street East, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This building has historical significance for its construction and use by the New Plymouth Friendly Societies’ Dispensary, which was itself a manifestation of the prominent role played by local friendly societies in providing health services (and wider social security) for its members throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. This building housed the pharmacy on the ground floor and maintained this use for 44 years. The building has architectural interest in the particular economy of its pared-back design. It is set in the middle of a long run of old buildings and is an important member of the substantial collection of heritage buildings in this part of Devon Street.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Lot 1 DP 5381 District Plan Item/ Map No. - Heritage New Zealand List -
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 133 Construction Information Date of Construction 1932 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete Construction Professionals Griffiths and Stephenson (architects); AO Brown (builder)
History The New Plymouth Friendly Societies Dispensary Ltd was a co-operative venture established by the city's friendly societies in 1918. The first legislation enabling the establishment of friendly societies in New Zealand had been put forward in 1854 and lodges were set up throughout the country during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Subscription to a friendly society provided social security through a wide range of benefits, most particularly in the form of affordable access to medical care. Access to dispensaries was an important component of this. By giving lodge members access to their own dispensary the expectation was that prices for prescriptions would be controlled and profits retained for the benefit of their organisations. The concept was first aired in New Plymouth in a public meeting in December 1917, but it took some while before the dispensary opened. Under the chairmanship of barrister Fred Calvert, a company was formed, a prospectus drawn up and working capital of £3,000 set aside.307 The following year, 5,000 shares at £1 each were offered to lodge members.308 For a proposal that required a commitment of funds by each lodge, there was remarkably little public interest in the meetings that set up the company. There was confidence from the lodges that the dispensary would be successful; other similar ventures in New Zealand had turned a profit. Premises were purchased in Devon Street East (then owned and occupied by the confectioner Mrs T. Waugh) in 1919,309 and the dispensary was opened that year. The first manager was J.B. Austin.310 The address was 247 Devon Street East (later 42 Devon Street East). The dispensary was successful enough that the company was able to rebuild on the same site in 1932. The architects were Griffiths and Stephenson; the builder was A O Brown and the estimated cost was £1,850.311 This building remained the dispensary’s home until 1976, a span of 44 years. That year, because a growth in trade and a lack of room, the dispensary moved two doors along to 38 Devon Street East, to a building previously occupied by L A Nolan and Co. Ltd.312 The New Plymouth Friendly Societies Dispensary Ltd was later renamed the Friendlies Corporation Ltd in 1986. It changed its name to Hanabar Holdings Ltd in 2001 and was removed from the Companies Office register in 2007.313 It is not known when the dispensary stopped trading but government-backed social security had long since reduced the need for such organisations by the time the society disappeared. The later history of the building is not known. The building is currently occupied by hairdressers HQ Studio.
Reference Sources See footnotes, plus ‘Friendly Societies', from An Encyclopaedia of New Zealand, edited by A. H. McLintock, originally published in 1966. Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/1966/freemasonry-and-friendly- societies/page-3 (accessed 13 Aug 2017)
307 Taranaki Herald, 15 December 1915, p.6 308 Taranaki Herald, 24 August 1918, p.8 309 Taranaki Herald, 4 October, 1919 310 Hawera and Normanby Star, 31 October 1922, p.4 311 ARC2011-204/1, New Plymouth Borough Council Building Inspectors Registers and ARC2008-197, Plans for New Plymouth Friendly Societies Dispensary Ltd, Puke Ariki 312 Taranaki Daily News, 14 June 1976 313 Certificate of Incorporation, https://app.companiesoffice.govt.nz/companies/app/service/services/documents/4A56C68CC57CA468748B04C2 4B21E9B7/Certificate_of_incorporation_25September2017.pdf [retrieved 25 September 2017]
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Description The New Plymouth Friendly Societies’ Dispensary building is a two-storey commercial building located in the centre of the CBD. It is set amidst a long run of comparable two-storeyed old buildings, many of heritage significance, that contributes a strong sense of character to this part of the city. The main elevation above the verandah remains very much as it was when it was first built. This is designed in a plain Deco-influenced style with virtually no depth of detail and minimal ornamentation, rendering it, unusually for the time, quite flat in appearance. Short stylised reedings frame the outer perimeter of the elevation, which is symmetrically arranged with a large double- hung window at the centre, flanked by smaller double-hung windows on either side. The widows are set into the façade, creating the main shadow lines. A minimal entablature features a sunk panel, with the name of the building neatly incised; above this is a parapet decorated with a shallow gabled pediment. The steel verandah stays spring from bossed hooks set on a dado moulding. There is a row of windows just above the verandah. The stayed verandah is likely to be the original, but there is no trace of the original shop front at street level. The roof plan corresponds closely with the original drawing, showing a building of 3 main volumes – a double-storey section at the front, a tall single storey section behind, and a lower volume at the rear (a service lane provides access to the back of the building. The building sits within a group of old buildings of comparable scale, including a number of heritage buildings, all of which contribute to a sense of age and establishment in this part of the street.
Assessment Historical Friendly societies played an important part in providing a level of social security for their members through the 19th and early 20th centuries, before the first Labour government significantly expanded the state’s role in the late 1930s, through to the late 1960s. This building is a physical manifestation of the influence and importance of the friendly societies in Taranaki, and elsewhere, in the provision of health services. The Friendly Societies’ Dispensary company no longer exists but the building is a reminder of both its lengthy presence in Devon Street and the importance of social support in a time before the present welfare state was established. Importance to Community – Architecture & Construction The building is interesting for its minimal but carefully considered decoration. Setting and Context Set in the middle of a long run of old two-storey buildings on this side of the street, some of heritage significance, the Friendly Societies building makes an important contribution to the heritage values of Devon Street. Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, The upper facade is largely intact. This may be the only integrity building constructed by the consortium of local friendly societies in the district. Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 135 St Mary’s Church Peace Hall
Site ID 137 (Proposed DP), New (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name St Mary’s Peace Hall Address 40 Vivian Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This purpose-designed hall and Sunday school is an important example of a World War I memorial. It demonstrates how communities often preferred to erect buildings as memorials and then derive practical value out of them. This hall has additional historical value for its history of service to the church and community since its completion in 1924. The building appears much as it was when it first opened, and has a high level of authenticity. Although its architecture is modest in nature, it is carefully designed to humanise its imposing size, and it has an unusual domestic character to its design. The building forms an important pair with the adjacent former Sunday School hall; the buildings stand out in the local streetscape and form part of the very important historic precinct around St Mary’s church.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Section 711 Town of New Plymouth District Plan Item/ Map No. Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1924 Principal Materials Concrete; concrete roofing tiles. Construction Professionals Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor (architects); J & T Julian and Son Ltd. (builders)
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History St Mary’s Peace Memorial Hall was built after the end of World War I and, as its title indicates, it was intended to be, in part, a memorial. The architects were the well-known local firm of Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor and the principal contractor J & T Julian and Son. The estimated price was £3,550.314 At the conclusion of World War I, in January 1919, the parishioners held a meeting to decide what form a memorial to the fallen should take. The meeting determined that the memorial ‘should be erected as soon as possible’ and that it ‘should take the form of a new Sunday School and Parish Hall.’315 The meeting wanted tenders called as soon as three-quarters the money required had been raised. Every effort was to be made to open the building free of debt.316 Although there was a significant amount of memorial statuary raised through the 1920s in New Zealand, peace halls and other commemorative buildings were not uncommon. Funds were steadily raised, but the effort took some time. In the interim, in 1921,317 a roll of honour was unveiled in the church itself. It took the form of a brass tablet engraved with the names of the 78 former parishioners who had died in the war.318 It was not until 1 June 1924 that the commemoration stone was laid by Mayor Frank Wilson. Work then began in earnest on the building of the hall. The hall was opened by Bishop Dr A W Averill on 7 November 1924, in the year of the 80th anniversary of the opening of the church’s first Sunday School. At this point the hall was still £300 in arrears, but a fundraising event held on the opening day itself produced enough of a profit to make the building debt-free.319 It is not certain if the building was immediately joined to the adjacent Sunday School but at some point in its first two decades a corridor was built between the two buildings. The new hall became the combined Parish Hall and Sunday School.
An aerial image of the St Mary’s complex in 1949, with the church and vicarage on the south side of Vivian Street and the Peace Hall (closest to the camera) and community centre on the other side of the street. (WA- 21719-G, Alexander Turnbull Library)
314 Alington, Margaret, 1988, Goodly Stones & Timbers: A History of St Mary’s Church, New Plymouth, Wright & Carmen Ltd., Wellington, p.85 315 Taranaki Daily News, 27 January 1919, p.7 316 Ibid. 317 Taranaki Daily News, 26 November 1920, p.4. This article mentions the congregation’s desire to get on and build a separate memorial to fallen soldiers. The general hope was that it could be in the form of a bell tower on the church, but with the cost somewhat prohibitive, the church adopted the suggestion that a brass memorial be erected in the church ‘immediately’. 318 ‘St Mary’s Peace Memorial Hall, New Plymouth’, https:/nzhistory.govt.nz/media/photo/new-plymouth- memorial-church, MCH, updated 26-Apr-2016 [retrieved 14 September 2017] 319 Taranaki Herald, 31 May 1924
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 137 It is assumed that the building kept its two primary uses for much of its life. During World War II the building was used as an emergency hospital.320 More recently it has been offered for community hire, along with the former Sunday School, as the Peace Hall Complex. With the closure of St Mary’s Cathedral for earthquake strengthening in 2015, the Peace Hall is currently in use as a temporary cathedral for services. Reference Sources See footnotes.
Description The hall is a simple large rectilinear building, of a domestic character and plain unornamented style. Its form is enlivened by its symmetrical composition, by the rhythmic pattern of windows and buttresses evident on the west wall, and by the complex geometry of the main entry on the south wall. It has a gabled extension to the east, joining it to the former Sunday School, and a small lean- to extension at the north-west corner. The building has a solid and weighty appearance. The steeply-pitched roof is covered in modern concrete tiles (replacements for the original Marseilles tiles) and is punctuated with a regular array of small rectangular timber ventilators along both sides. The walls are finished in rough-cast plaster, with regularly-spaced buttresses running down the long walls to carry the roof trusses; pairs of tall rectangular timber windows are set between the buttresses on the west side. The single-storey south extension has a complex form with a low hipped and gabled roof that serves to humanise the otherwise imposing scale of the building. The main entry is via a small porch sheltered under a semi-circular arch in the middle of the south extension. This lets on to a small vestibule, with rooms on either side, and in turn onto the hall space. This is a single large volume, well-lit by the western windows. It has plain plastered walls above a tg&v dado, a soaring ceiling supported on large timber trusses and a timber floor. There is a raised stage at the north end with a proscenium arch; doors to either side let on to service spaces beyond. There are fire escape doors on the walls to either side of the stage, and a passage in the middle of the east wall links through to the lounge and kitchen spaces housed in the former Sunday School. The Peace Hall appears much as it was when it was first built, and consequently has a strong sense of historic authenticity. It makes a visually interesting companion to the adjacent hall, with which it shares a broad similarity of form and scale (although a strong contrast in materials and style); situated opposite the large open green space of the church grounds, the pair of structures stands out in the local streetscape, where they can be understood in relation to the church.
Assessment Historical The Memorial Peace Hall is historically significant as a war memorial - the physical expression of St Mary’s congregation’s desire to commemorate the end of World War I and remember the parishes losses - and as a church hall and Sunday School building that has operated since 1924 and strongly contributed to the life of the church. Importance to Community This is a functional building with a particular commemorative importance, as a World War I memorial. With its broad use for a variety of church- related purposes, it has, like its neighbour the former Sunday School, on-going social and spiritual value to St Mary’s and its community. Architecture & Construction This is large but architecturally modest building of an unusual domestic character that is conjoined with an older timber hall to make an interesting pair of structures.
320 Taranaki Daily News, 12 May 2014
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Setting and Context The building makes an intriguing companion to the former Sunday School hall, and the pair stands out in the local streetscape. The building is an important element of a significant heritage precinct in New Plymouth that includes St Mary’s church (1845), the cemetery and grounds, the vicarage, and both halls. Archaeological The land occupied by the church buildings has been used for well in excess of 130 years and probably much longer. It is likely that evidence of past use of the site could be revealed using archaeological techniques. Rarity, representativeness, – integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 139 St Mary’s Community Centre
Site ID 138 (Proposed DP), New (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name St Mary’s Church Community Centre Address 36-40 Vivian Street, New Plymouth
Statement of Significance This 19th century timber Gothic building has historic significance for its role in serving the Anglican community of New Plymouth since its completion in 1888. Originally occupied by St Mary’s Sunday School, it has been used for a great variety of purposes and remains in regular use. Although it has been altered over time, it remains relatively authentic in appearance. The building has architectural significance in its Victorian Gothic design. With the adjoining Peace Hall, it makes a pair of important and long-standing buildings that are a key part of the wider St Mary’s historic precinct and which stand out in the wider streetscape for their age and heritage value.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Section 711 Town of New Plymouth District Plan Item/ Map No. - Heritage New Zealand List -
Construction Information Date of Construction 1887-88 Principal Materials Timber; corrugated steel Construction Professionals James Sanderson (architect); Robert Early & J Allen (builder)
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History Former St Mary’s Sunday School was built in 1888 on land owned by the Anglican Church on the opposite side of the road from St Mary’s Church (established in 1845). The architect was James Sanderson and the builders were Robert Early and J Allen. The estimated price was £320.321 Until this hall was built, St Mary’s Church held its Sunday School in an older existing building on the adjacent site that had become inadequate for the growing church’s needs. The church regularly held fundraising events – bazaars and concerts – in support of the Sunday School but by 1887 it was fundraising specifically for what was described as an ‘Enlargement of St Mary’s Sunday School’.322 By the time that architect Sanderson called for tenders in October 1887 the enlargement had turned into ‘New School Rooms’.323 The old school building was retained, right alongside, to be ‘used in conjunction with the new building.’324 The new hall was nearing completion in March 1888. At this point a lack of funds meant that the hall could not be lined.325 A concert was held the following year to help pay the remaining debt off, but when the hall was finished is not known. The new hall was composed of one room and a porch, with the building attached to the old school by means of two passages on what was described as its ‘left hand side’ (actually the east side). The main space could seat between 150 and 200 children.326 Apart from the Sunday lessons, the building was used for concerts, bazaars, meetings and other community purposes. In April 1902, the Sunday School’s superintendent, William H Skinner, who had led the work to build the hall, announced that the Sunday School was to be extended.327 The extension, a classroom, was built by George Cliff for £55.328 This extension seems to have maintained the general form and appearance of the hall. By the 1920s the hall was also in weekday use as a kindergarten, possibly after the construction of the Peace Hall. The construction of the Peace Hall to the immediate west in 1924 superseded the Sunday School, with that function moving in to the Peace Hall, but beyond its use as a kindergarten, other early uses are not known. The two buildings are connected by means of wide corridor leading off from the Peace Hall (the date of this connection is not currently known, but it was certainly there in the 1940s and may have been built in conjunction with the Peace Hall). In 1967, a group of old timber buildings on the eastern side of the hall, including the older Sunday School, was pulled down to provide car parking on the church’s land.329 Later, in 1979 a porch was added at the north-east corner. The building was (and is) known as Badminton Hall, a possible nod to another use it was put to.
Early church buildings alongside the community centre being demolished in December 1967. (Taranaki Photo News)
321 Alington, Margaret, 1988, Goodly Stones & Timbers: A History of St Mary’s Church, New Plymouth, Wright & Carmen Ltd., Wellington, p.83 322 Taranaki Herald, 22 August 1887, p.3 323 Taranaki Herald, 14 October 1887, p.3 324 Taranaki Herald, 27 March 1888, p.3 325 Ibid. 326 Taranaki Herald, 27 March 1888, p.3 327 Taranaki Herald, 29 April 1902, p.2 328 Alington p.83. 329 Taranaki Photo News, Issue 141, 16 December 1967
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 141 When the Sunday School ended use of the hall is not known. At present the hall is part of what is now known as the Peace Hall Complex. It provides a lounge and kitchen facility that is also used by an Op Shop, Food Bank and is available for hire. Reference Sources See footnotes
Description Part of an important historic precinct of church buildings, the hall is an interesting Victorian structure built of timber and designed in a Gothic idiom. Oriented on a north-south axis, the building is composed of two primary and symmetrical gable-roofed forms, a relatively small entry porch at the south, and the larger form of the hall itself. It is simple in form but visual richness is created by the combination of the steeply pitched gabled roofs, timbered and bracketed gable ends, Gothic-style pointed windows and weatherboard cladding. Paired horizontal battens create additional shadow lines. The main elevation faces south, to the street, and is the most elaborate, with a pointed window either side of the porch and a small pair of pointed windows in the gable end above. The original entry doors (a pair of pointed timber doors, modified with glass vision panels) are on the east side of the old porch. There is a modern entry porch halfway along the east wall of the hall. The east elevation is clad with fibre-cement sheet, presumably dating from the 1967 removal of the attached neighbouring buildings; there are two pointed windows on the southern section but aside from the modern porch, the rest of the wall is blank. The west elevation is clad in weatherboards, interrupted by the link from the Peace Hall. Although it has been modified over time, the original form of the hall can still be clearly understood and the building consequently conveys a strong sense of historic authenticity. It makes a visually interesting companion to the adjacent Peace Hall, with which it shares a broad similarity of form and scale (although a strong contrast in materials and style); situated opposite the large open green space of the church grounds, the pair of structures stands out in the local streetscape, where they can be understood in relation to the rest of the church precinct.
Assessment Historical The former Sunday School is an ancillary building of great importance in the history of St Mary’s New Plymouth, one of the country’s most revered churches. A building of considerable age itself, the Sunday School has played a varied role in the life of the church and its parishioners. Its use as a Sunday School is arguably its most significant role but the building has had many purposes over the years. It remains in regular use. Importance to Community This is a building built by parishioners and used for a wide variety of church-related purposes all its life, so it has social and spiritual value to St Mary’s and its community. Architecture & Construction The hall is a lively and visually interesting structure designed in a Victorian Gothic idiom. Setting and Context The building makes a fine companion to the interlinked Peace Hall, and the pair stand out in the local streetscape. The building is an important element of a significant heritage precinct in New Plymouth that includes St Mary’s church (1845), the cemetery and grounds, the vicarage, and both halls Archaeological The land occupied by the church buildings has been used for well in excess of 130 years and probably much longer. It is likely that evidence of past use of the site could be revealed using archaeological techniques.
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Rarity, representativeness, – integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 143 War Memorial Hall, Library and Museum
Site ID 139 (Proposed DP), 522 (Operative DP 2015) Building/Site Name War Memorial Hall, Library and Museum Address 11 Ariki Street, New Plymouth 4310
Statement of Significance This building has great commemorative and historic importance to the city of New Plymouth. Devised as a memorial to the fallen in the wake of World War II, it had a remarkable and diverse range of purposes when it opened in 1960 – library, museum, art gallery, lecture room and public hall. Today, those uses have changed (it houses the library and research extension of Puke Ariki) but the building retains its commemorative value and its functional usefulness to the city.
Legal Information and Heritage Status Legal Description Sec 2336, New Plymouth TN District Plan Item/ Map No. – Heritage New Zealand List Not listed
Construction Information Date of Construction 1960 Principal Materials Reinforced concrete with aluminium joinery Construction Professionals Taylor & Syme in association with F. John Bowering (architects) Fairbrother & Wheeler, Snowden (builders)
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History The citizens of New Plymouth had long aspired to build a public hall but the advent of World War II put any such plans on hold. In the wake of the war, New Plymouth chose, like other Taranaki towns (and many towns around New Zealand), to build a war memorial in the form of a hall, an option made feasible by an offer of matching funding by the government.
A New Plymouth District Council organising sub-committee was set up to initiate the project. It favoured Marsland Hall,330 but many other options were looked at, including the ‘Fillis Street gully, a plot below the city council’s electricity building on Carrington Street, opposite the city council’s property on Liardet Street, the Barrett Street hospital grounds on the corner of Fulford and Dawson streets, opposite the Post Office where the Railway department had its offices, a private property on Devon Street, … a vacant area on the corner of Gill and High streets owned by the Taranaki A&P Society.’ 331 Also investigated was a public site opposite New Plymouth Boys’ High School at the corner of Coronation Avenue and Rogan Street. Waiwhakaiho Park, near the Waiwhakaiho Bridge, was also looked at.332
The site was not the only matter that the council had to come to a conclusion about. A plan began to form around combining a war memorial hall with a new library and museum. It took several years of discussion and planning before the concept was settled and a design called for. The site chosen was in the heart of the city, an island bounded by Ariki, King, Brougham and Egmont Streets. The architects chosen were Taylor & Syme of New Plymouth, who were joined by English-born architect F John Bowering. The nature of their arrangement is not known, but Bowering was described in his obituary as the designer of the building,333 suggesting Taylor & Syme may have taken on the documentation work. Bowering was responsible for the design of a number of major buildings in New Plymouth, including the Whiteley Memorial Methodist Church, the YMCA Stadium, and the airport terminal building.
Reinforced concrete was intended to be the principal building material but this was dropped in favour of structural steel – considered cheaper and quicker to build. The window joinery was aluminium rather than steel. A flat for a caretaker was planned and then abandoned on the grounds that it was unnecessary. The architects settled on an internal arrangement consisting of the library on the ground floor, the museum on the first floor, together with an art gallery in the south-east corner and a lecture room that seated 150 people, and the memorial hall on the top floor. The latter had a capacity of 550 people and it was augmented by a supper room, dressing room, kitchen, lounge and toilets. The stage was big enough to accommodate an orchestra pit and the city’s grand piano. The main entrance was to be on Ariki Street. The plans were completed in 1954. The cost of the project was put at £283,000.334
Construction was underway in 1957 and took the best part of three years. The principal contractor was the combined firm of Fairbrother and Wheeler, and Snowden,335 and the first job was the clearing of the site, which was occupied by the Social Security Building, a bus terminal, a seed merchants and, in the middle, a carpark.336 At the rear (western end) was the Carnegie Library and Museum, but this remained largely intact and in use during construction. It was demolished when the new building opened.337 A popular pie cart was also removed. There were delays in the work while steel was sourced (tradesmen even went and built houses while the work was put on hold). Concrete was made on site and wheelbarrowed by hand. The circular staircase that was a feature of the library (now gone), proved to be a complicated structure to build.
330 ‘New Plymouth War Memorial Hall Inaugural Season’, Souvenir Programme, 1960 331 ‘The Rise and Fall of a Memorial Hall’, Taranaki Daily News, 17 July 2010 332 Ibid. 333 Taranaki Daily News, 20 July 2014 334 New Plymouth Photo News, Issue 11, 28 November 1957 335 Two separate construction companies (Fairbrother and Wheeler, and Snowden) combined to take on what was an abnormally large construction job by New Plymouth standards. 336 ‘The Rise and Fall of a Memorial Hall’, Taranaki Daily News, 17 July 2010 337 Taranaki Daily News, 29 January 1960
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 145 The library opened early in 1960 but finishing work continued until the official opening of the building by the Governor-General, Lord Cobham, on 14 July 1960. The city had ambitious plans for the hall and its first programme of events for the year was full of concerts, primarily classical recitals.338 The hall was busy during most of its first two decades and for a variety of purposes – performances, social and sporting events and the like. However, by the late 1970s, use began to decline and this trend continued into the 1980s. The revival of the New Plymouth Opera House in 1976, coupled with its expansion into the TSB Showplace in 1999, meant that it was filling the role previously played by memorial hall.
In the meantime, the lack of space in the building for both the library and museum (just a fraction of the museum’s content could be displayed at any one time) saw the formation of a working party in 1993 to address the issue. To alleviate the pressure, a new museum was planned for a site directly across Ariki Street on what had once been the Puke Ariki pa site (later levelled by Pakeha settlers). The staircase under construction, 18 March 1958. (Puke Ariki Acc No PHO2006-166, Photo McGee Studios) Funding by the council and community was secured in 1999 and the work was completed in 2003. The architects of the redevelopment were Boon, Goldsmith and Bhasker Team Architecture and the contractors were Clelands Construction. Part of the project involved converting the former hall, library and museum (to be known as the south wing) by removing the hall and attendant spaces, expanding the library and forming a space for the Taranaki Research Centre and museum archive on the third floor. The two wings were linked by an airbridge over Ariki Street. Various embellishments – shutters, screens and verandahs – were added to the forecourt and Ariki Street elevations. Among a host of changes to the interior was the removal of the original curved staircase.
Following its conversion, which was well received by the public, the building has been used in much the same fashion. The library and Taranaki Research Centre are open seven days a week in the heart of the city, an area that gets a large amount of foot traffic.
Reference Sources Refer footnotes.
Description The War Memorial Hall is plain and forthright 1950s Modernist building, one very much of its time. It has a competent, if fairly stolid and architecturally unremarkable, design that is composed of a series of gridded stacked boxes that contain the various functions. It is wrapped in plain walls, clad in a variety of gridded materials, pierced with orderly patterns of rectilinear windows distributed according to the needs of the internal spaces. The elevations are all asymmetrically composed, which adds some visual interest. The palette of materials is limited and chosen for contrast and effect – including a low terracotta tile plinth, smooth plastered concrete walls, small roughcast concrete panels used in a grid, and aluminium window and curtain wall glazing. Some effort has gone to enlivening the building in recent times with various screens, louvres, sunshades, canopies and service space additions at the back of the building, and into connecting it physically and architecturally to Puke Ariki across the road on the north. The main elevation faces east, to open space at Brougham Street. Recent work here has formed an attractive shared space for pedestrians and traffic and a compact public plaza area that complements the use of the building. The entry to the building is at the left side within a recess,
338 ‘New Plymouth War Memorial Hall Inaugural Season’, Souvenir Programme, 1960
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reached by steps from the front and a ramp on the right. A series of tall windows lights the main public area inside (matched with a row of blanked off windows at the top floor). Modern sunshades cut down the heat gain and a modern pedestrian shelter canopy, that returns along Ariki Street, cuts across the middle of them; a large woven metal panel – matching those on Puke Ariki – springs out of the ground at the right side of the elevation, further shading the most exposed windows and complicating the elevation. The north elevation is made of a compounded series of rectilinear forms, including the lift tower at the rear. The modern link bridge spans across to Puke Ariki at high level above the street. Its refined contemporary design and detail contrasts uncomfortably with the stolidity of the original building. The west and south elevations are secondary. A modern single-storey service structure is built up against it a ground level. The south elevation is canted in plan to follow the line of King Street; its main feature is an array of large windows at the library end. The interior of the library area has been altered from its original state with various walls opened up, the spiral concrete stair removed and modern stairs and escalators and the like inserted to provide access to upper levels and through to Puke Ariki. However, something of the original character and quality of the space can still be discerned, particularly in the main library area where the floor levels are unaltered and elements like the original plaster ceiling tiles are still in place. Due to its large height and bulk, and the narrowness of the surrounding streets the building dominates the local streetscape. However, as it is situated in the low part of the city, it is largely screened from distant views by topography and other buildings. It makes something of a pair with the former Post Office building in age, design aesthetic and heritage value, but otherwise does not relate well to the surrounding mix of more modestly-scaled commercial buildings.
Assessment Historical This building has high historic significance for its past and present purposes. It has been the home of the public library since its inception and for the bulk of its history it was also a museum, art gallery, lecture room and public hall. As the home of the Puke Ariki archive and Taranaki Research Centre it retains its civic and institutional importance. Importance to Community The building has very great importance for its commemorative and symbolic role. War memorials take many forms in New Zealand and in New Plymouth it was the provision of a much needed civic facility. The former Memorial Hall was the centre of cultural life in New Plymouth for more than 30 years. The building continues in a different but similarly important role today as the public library and museum archive in the heart of the city. Architecture & Construction – Setting and Context – Archaeological – Rarity, representativeness, – integrity Meets threshold for listing (three or more ticks, or two ticks in one criterion)
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 147 Heritage Buildings and Items Risk Assessments
At the same time as carrying out assessments, the Council asked us to examine resilience issues, especially in relation to public safety and the economics of maintaining earthquake-prone buildings. As we are not structural engineers (our expertise is largely confined to heritage-related matters in history and architecture), the observations in the following table are high level only and are meant to guide the Council on where it would be appropriate to engage a structural engineer to conduct further investigation. Comments on the general worthiness of the buildings follow the table below. Note that these buildings are located on maps that follow later within this document and are labelled using the numbers in the “Site ID (Operative District Plan)” column. Only those in the CBD have been mapped.
Site ID Site ID Name of Building Address Date Principal construction Risks (Proposed (Operative material / method District District Plan) Plan) 104 772 Former Post Office 21 Currie St 1959 Reinforced concrete Unknown, structural review required. Plan with lightwell. Almost standalone building. 105 819 James Lane Rest 3 Ariki St 1936 Reinforced concrete Standalone building. Low-rise, compact form, lots of internal Rooms walls – likely to be low risk but structural review required. 106 1105 State Fire Insurance 42 Egmont St 1924 Concrete (presumably Quality of structure and plan configuration not known. Likely to Building reinforced) be very well constructed, but also tightly abutted to Victoria building and Egmont Chambers, risk of pounding. 107 1106 Egmont Chambers 46 Egmont St 1925 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure not known. Possible soft storey at ground level. Abutted to Opera House and to State Fire Insurance, risk of pounding. 108 1109 Pantechnicon 42 King St 1904 Brick Unreinforced masonry structure – standalone building. Likely to be high risk. 109 1110 Victoria Building 37 King St 1926 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure not known. Attached to State Fire Insurance building at corner, risk of differential movement/pounding. 110 1121 Former Salvation Army 38 Powderham St 1927 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure not known. Attached to Young People’s Citadel Hall and neighbour on side street, risk of differential movement/pounding. 111 1122 Chatsworth House 62 Powderham St 1924 Reinforced concrete Standalone building - low rise, cellular design with lots of internal walls – likely to be relatively low risk but quality of structure not known. 112 1124 YWCA/YMCA 74 Powderham St 1929 Reinforced concrete Standalone building - quality of structure not known. 1932 front Community House section cellular design, older hall two-storeyed. Hall has concrete structure with brick infill panels. 113 1197 Government Life 67 Devon St East 1927 Reinforced concrete Unreinforced masonry elements and tall parapets. Cellular Insurance Building and brick plan arrangement, but quality of structure not known. Neighbours on two sides.
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Site ID Site ID Name of Building Address Date Principal construction Risks (Proposed (Operative material / method District District Plan) Plan) 114 1204 Abrams' Building 9 Devon St East 1911 Brick Unreinforced masonry structure, high parapet, party walls, neighbours both sides. Possibly soft storey at ground floor. 115 1205 Bacon's Building 48 Devon St East 1902 Timber Unreinforced masonry party walls, few transverse walls at ground level, neighbours both sides. 116 1206 The State Hotel 162 Devon St 1865/ Timber Compact low rise form, cellular design with lots of internal East 1900 walls – risk is likely to be relatively low, but potential for differential movement with neighbour on Devon St. Structural review may have been carried out in recent history? 117 1222 Darby & Hannan 53 Devon St East 1928 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure and internal plan arrangement not known. Building Relatively tall building with neighbours both sides and at back, risk of pounding. 118 1244 Sole Bros Building 38-40 Currie St 1928 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure not known – multiple buildings stitched together, with neighbours on all sides. Layout is quite cellular with lots of internal walls. High parapets. 119 1256 Former Public Trust 52 King St 1920 Reinforced concrete Quality of original structure and plan arrangements not known Building and brick (addition) – unreinforced masonry elements in addition. May have been a structural review done for apartment conversion? 120 1265 Red Post Building 83 Devon St East 1911 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure and internal configuration not known. Neighbours both sides. 121 1266 Johnson's Motors 167 Devon St 1925 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure and internal configuration not known. Building East Neighbours both sides. 122 1267 Former State Theatre 181 Devon St 1935 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure, and internal configuration /consequences East of modern changes, not known. Neighbours both sides. May have had a structural review done for conversion to showroom? 123 1269 Websters Building 12 Devon St West 1920 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure and internal configuration not known. Neighbours on two sides of comparable scale, other two sides open. 124 1270 Barry's Building 112 Devon St 1924 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure not known. Cellular plan arrangement, but West not a lot of longitudinal wall. Neighbours on two sides, other two sides open. 125 1271 Morey & Son Building 81 Devon St West 1915 Brick Tall unreinforced masonry structure, substantial parapet. Internal configuration not known. Neighbours both sides of comparable scale. 126 1272 Veale's Building 85 Devon St West 1913 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure not known, captured between two larger buildings – risk of pounding/differential movement. 127 1273 Arizona Takeaways 91 Devon St West 1880s Timber Unreinforced masonry party walls, internal configuration not known. Neighbours both sides, risk of differential movement.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 149 Site ID Site ID Name of Building Address Date Principal construction Risks (Proposed (Operative material / method District District Plan) Plan) 128 1287 First Taranaki Club 28 Egmont St 1898 Timber Hard abutment to Egmont Business Centre – risk of pounding Building and differential movement. Internal configuration not known, assumed to be quite cellular. 129 1289 Kelsey's Building 43-49 Devon St 1904 Brick Unreinforced masonry structure, masonry party walls. Tall East parapet, neighbours both sides. 130 717 St Paul's Church, 25 Ngatoki St, 1888 Timber Standalone building - likely to be very low risk due to compact Urenui Urenui size and complex form. Intermittent use only. Check securing of belfry to roof frame, integrity of trusses and foundations. 131 N/A Urenui Abattoir SH 3, Lot 1 1879 Timber (with concrete Uninhabited and remote site. Likely to be very low risk – check DP484972 footings) connection of wall frame to concrete footings, and integrity of connections at roof. 132 N/A, A1 on Exchange Chambers 101 Devon St 1895 Timber Masonry party wall on west side? Otherwise cellular low-rise maps West timber building, likely to be relatively low risk. 133 N/A, A2 on Salvation Army Young 40 Powderham St 1927 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure and plan arrangement not known. maps Peoples Hall (and timber) Captured between two larger buildings, risk of pounding. 134 N/A, A5 on East End Buildings 282-286 Devon St 1926 Concrete (reinforced?) Quality of structure not known. Quite cellular plan, neighbour maps East on Devon Street. 135 N/A, A6 on Boon Bros 11 Gover St 1927 Reinforced concrete Standalone building. Quality of structure and internal plan not maps known, but compact form and small scale would mitigate risk. 136 N/A, A7 on NP Friendly Societies 42 Devon St East 1932 Reinforced concrete Quality of structure and internal configuration not known. maps Dispensary Masonry party walls and adjoining buildings both sides. 137 N/A, A3 on St Mary's Church 40 Vivian St 1924 Concrete (reinforced?) Quality of structure not known. Large standalone building, with maps Peace Hall physical connection to Community Centre that could cause differential movement/pounding 138 N/A, A4 on St Mary's Community 36-40 Vivian St 1888 Timber Quality of structure not known, but likely to be low risk. maps Centre Connection to Peace Hall could give a risk of differential movement/pounding. 139 522 War Memorial Hall, 11 Ariki St 1960 Reinforced concrete Structural review would have been done in conjunction with Library & Museum Puke Ariki upgrade. Bridge over road is a particular risk element.
It is recommended that structural engineering reviews are commissioned in order to understand the individual issues for each of the concrete and masonry buildings. The timber buildings should be similarly reviewed. Although an IEP process would be useful for Council in quickly quantifying the general level of risk, an IEP given in isolation is not often very helpful for building owners as they do not quantify the actual risks for each building. Reviews therefore should generally be at a DSA level so that the actual risk is clearly understood in each case.
The unreinforced masonry buildings represent a well-known seismic risk and there are now good options available for strengthening them in ways that do not adversely impact on heritage values.
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Most of the concrete buildings predate the 1931 Napier earthquake and subsequent national design code. Looking at the surviving 1920s buildings that stand today in Napier and Hastings, performance of these buildings in a major seismic event (without modern strengthening) is likely to be hit-and-miss as the structural engineering science was not well developed or understood at the time. It is likely that many of these buildings will need strengthening of some sort, from minor to major interventions.
Structural engineering design standards, and the science behind them, have progressed considerably since the 1990s. Strengthening work carried out in that time period or earlier is no longer likely to meet current requirements and further upgrading is likely to be necessary.
The experience in Christchurch shows that seismic strengthening to a higher value than the earthquake-prone threshold of >33%NBS can have a significant economic benefit for building owners. Strengthening to higher values typically resulted in lower levels of damage, quicker repairs and less impact on continuity of business. Buildings left at the minimum 34%, while meeting life safety objectives, largely ended up being significantly damaged beyond the point of economic repair and were subsequently demolished.
Most of the buildings have neighbours on two or three sides. Attachment to other buildings is a very complex issue, particularly in terms of mutual support, combined loadings, and the design of strengthening work (especially if a small number of buildings in a conjoined group is strengthened). This issue affects most of the CBD buildings.
A common weakness to many of the buildings is a lack of transverse walls at ground level, so they are not well braced in both directions. This can cause significant trouble in an earthquake, including timber buildings.
Foundation and sub-soil conditions are not known. These could potentially have a significant bearing on building performance in an earthquake, especially where soils are soft. Conditions are likely to be quite variable over the CBD area given the topography and run of the streams. Geotechnical investigation is recommended.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 151 Heritage Character Area
As part of the survey of the built environment within the New Plymouth CBD we identified an area in the heart of the city that contains a significant number of surviving heritage buildings along with a number of other features that give it value. Those features include the undulating topography, open spaces, vegetation, Huatoki Stream, street furniture, urban art and the overall character of the built form.
It also revealed buildings that, while not sufficiently significant to be individually listed in the heritage inventory, still make a positive contribution to the character of the streetscape. These buildings are called contributory buildings. Photos of these contributory buildings, along with a brief description of how they contribute to the streetscape, are provided later in this document.
We recommend that this area be identified as a heritage character area in the District Plan and that rules be included accordingly to manage future change so that its values are protected and enhanced.
A heritage character area is an area where the predominant value is the provided by a collection of heritage buildings in close proximity to each other in a defined precinct but which contains other elements (natural, cultural, aesthetic and otherwise) that enhance that area and give it a special character.
This section contains three maps of the central city plus area on the fringe – west, central and east. These maps have buildings marked on them as follows: • Blue – existing Category B heritage buildings that the Council has asked us to assess. All the buildings identified on the maps meet the threshold for listing; • Red – buildings that are not listed in the District Plan that we consider meet the threshold for listing and are worthy of heritage status; • Pink – contributory buildings; and • Green – other heritage buildings already identified in the District Plan (category ‘A’).
The central map also shows the recommended heritage character area shaded in brown. Following these maps is a description of what makes up the heritage character area.
It is recommended that the Council investigate the formulation of rules to cover the following: • Controlling the extent and nature of development within the area via adherence to a design guide, with particular reference to height limits, use of materials and design elements, verandah types etc.; • Limited protection of contributory buildings e.g. changes to façades become a discretionary activity in order to help protect the character of the wider area; • Vacant sites – no building is allowed to be demolished unless a new building is consented to take its place (and subject to the design guide).
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West Map
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Central Map
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East Map
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 155 New Plymouth Heritage Character Area This heritage area is based around the cultural and commercial heart of New Plymouth, an area with a long Maori and Pakeha history. It incorporates the spine of Devon Street (East and West) for six blocks (in full or part) but also extends more widely at its western end to take in clusters of buildings of heritage and cultural value.
The area is focussed on the buildings that make up this area but it also incorporates streets, open spaces, a stream and street furniture. The buildings themselves are a mixture of listed (and proposed to be listed) heritage buildings, contributors (buildings that add visual interest or character to the area) and other buildings that don’t fall into the above categories.
This proposed area stretches (east-west) along Devon Street from just beyond Liardet Street to the west side of Queen Street. It is largely one property wide along Devon Street but exceptions are made at some intersections to incorporate heritage buildings and contributors. At the western end the boundary of the area widens to take in, on the north side, the blocks bounded by Devon Street West, Queen, King, Egmont and Brougham Streets. On the south side it also incorporates most of the block between Devon Street West, Brougham and Powderham Streets.
The area is important historically. It is close to the sea and the former site of Puke Ariki Pa, later used by Pakeha settlers as the location of their first houses. It includes areas that were occupied by Maori for centuries. It was here that Pakeha settlers first landed and began laying out a town for their occupation. Some of the buildings in the area are the only buildings to have ever occupied their properties, while others are the second or third on their sites. Many of these buildings have a link to 19th century New Plymouth and activities that took place there before they were built.
Geographically, it also captures the point where the land falls from all directions to a low-point in Devon Street at the intersection with Egmont Street. This is the only flat land in the central business district. Where it is visible, the semi-culverted Huatoki Stream is a notable feature of this central portion of area and a reminder of the role that water courses played in supporting both Maori and Pakeha settlement.
The buildings that make up this area are from many eras of the city’s history. They are mostly commercial, but there are also warehouses and factories, churches, halls, performance venues and civic buildings. There are 19th century timber buildings, masonry buildings from the first half of the 20th century, mostly Classical in style, and a range of later 20th century buildings in a Modern idiom, many of which are actually older buildings with more recent façades. While most of the buildings are modestly sized, two storey buildings, there are several taller.
The area is by no means uniformly full of heritage or older buildings but the area captures a significant concentration of such buildings. With effective use of rules and advocacy, it is hoped that over the next 50 years, this area will be enhanced by restoration of lost features, reinstatement of lost façades and the design and construction of buildings that complement or contribute to the values of the area.
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Contributory Buildings
Site ID 2001 (Proposed DP) C1 on map 44 King Street
This single storey masonry building maintains the general character of King Street. Although it has been modernised, it harmonises well in form, scale, materials and character with the other old buildings nearby.
Site ID 2003 (Proposed DP) C3 on map 17 King Street
This is the opposite end of 66-68 Devon Street West. The façade is simply decorated with art deco style motifs. Its materials, proportion and scale sit well in the local streetscape.
Site ID 2004 (Proposed DP) C4 on map 66-68 Devon Street West
This building runs through to King Street (17 King Street being the north elevation). The Devon Street West elevation is elegantly composed and finished with a frame of herringbone brick surrounding the windows and a simple stepped parapet. It has an appropriate scale and form for the heritage character area.
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Site ID 2005 (Proposed DP) C5 on map 17 Devon Street West
An interesting old commercial building is hidden behind the billboard, evidenced by the ornate pilasters and mouldings at either side of the facade. It has an appropriate form and scale for the streetscape of the heritage character area.
Site 2006 (Proposed DP) C6 on map 19 Devon Street East
This small commercial building has been “modernised” by replacing the original first floor window joinery and modifying the parapet. It retains the general form and proportion of the original building and is an appropriate scale and character for the streetscape of the heritage character area.
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Site ID 2007 (Proposed DP) C7 on map 35 Liardet Street
This modest single-storey workshop building has an unusually elaborate façade, quite carefully designed and proportioned, that harmonises well with the adjacent Government Life building, with which it makes an unusual but complementary pair.
Site ID 2008 (Proposed DP) C8 on map 50-52 Liardet Street
This single storey commercial building with two shops is the last of its kind in the heritage character area. It stands out for having largely original shopfronts and for its simple and unpretentious style.
Site ID 2009 (Proposed DP) C9 on map 71 Devon Street East
The double hung windows at the first floor show that the modern cladding on this narrow two storey building is likely to cover an original old timber façade. The building sits harmoniously in the streetscape with the adjacent Government Life building and contributes to the historic character of the area. Byers Jewellers is a long- standing business in the CBD area.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 159 Site ID 2010 (Proposed DP) C10 on map 93-95 Devon Street West
This building sits within an important group of old timber buildings in this part of the streetscape. Its scale, proportion and materials harmonise with its near neighbours, including Arizona and Exchange Chambers. The building, although rather different from its original appearance, makes a positive contribution to the character of the streetscape.
Site ID 2011 (Proposed DP) C12 on map 34-36 Brougham Street
This is an architecturally inventive late Modern e-style structure. Its asymmetric composition and unusual proportioning set it apart in the local streetscape, where it makes an intriguing architectural foil to the ornate pair of 1880s buildings across the road.
Site ID 2012 (Proposed DP) C14 on map 11 Devon Street West
This is an elegant and well composed 1930s masonry building, with a largely intact second storey. It has a blend of Moderne and Art Deco motifs that sits well in what is a streetscape of predominantly two storey buildings.
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Site ID 2013 (Proposed DP) C25 on map 13-15 Devon Street West
This two storey building fits well with the scale and form of the adjoining buildings. The windows on the front façade are original while the pilasters show some Art Deco influence.
Site ID 2014 (Proposed DP) C15 on map 16 Devon Street East
This building has an appropriate scale and form and sits well in its portion of Devon Street East and forms part of a mostly complete, older streetscape. It has restrained Art Deco-influenced decoration on its upper storey, which remains largely intact.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 161 Site ID 2015 (Proposed DP) C16 on map 18 Devon Street East
This building is of an appropriate scale and form for the area. It has modest Art Deco detailing on the second storey and fits well with the adjoining buildings.
Site ID 2016 (Proposed DP) C17 on map 20 Devon Street East
This two storey building uses materials and Art Deco-influenced design elements that fit well with the streetscape. The building appears to have been built in the 1930s.
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Site ID 2017 (Proposed DP) C19 on map 30-32 Devon Street East
This building has appropriate proportions and scale for the area and also retains elements of its original c.1920s form, in particular the party wall.
Site ID 2018 (Proposed DP) C20 on map 34 Devon Street East
This is a continuation of 34 Devon Street East and retains the general form and proportions of that building.
New Plymouth District Plan Review HERITAGE BUILDINGS AND ITEMS | 163 Site ID 2019 (Proposed DP) C21 on map 36-38 Devon Street East
This two storey building maintains the general streetscape height. It retains elements of its original street appearance, including stepped parapet, and retains the scale of the original building.
Site ID 2020 (Proposed DP) C23 on map 4 Devon Street East
This building’s proportions and scale and to a lesser extent, materials and detailing, respect the street and adjacent buildings. As a timber commercial building it is clearly of a considerable age, albeit somewhat modified from its original design.
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Site ID 2021 (Proposed DP) C24 on map 60 Devon Street East
This building addresses the corner effectively, uses appropriate materials and, despite changes to its appearance, retains some fine detailing in its fenestration (window arrangement) and subtle Art Deco-influenced decoration.
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