The customer service centre and all other staff will return to South Wairarapa District Council’s head office in Martinborough on Monday 2 March, following the completion of urgent works to remediate longstanding health and safety issues. 

The Kitchener Street office block, built in the 1950s, was deemed unfit for purpose in late 2024 after assessments found black mould, asbestos and leaks in parts of the building. 

In June 2025, Councillors supported the decision for the construction works to go ahead to provide council staff and the visiting public a healthy, safe and secure environment.  

From Monday, the customer service team will be back to serve the public from the Kitchener Street office with council reception hours remaining the same as always from 8.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. 

The customer service desk at Martinborough Library will close early at 3.30pm this Friday 27 February so the team can carry out the relocation. 

Infrastructure and Community Operations Acting Group Manager James O’Connor says the council considered different options, including an extension and total rebuild, with the most affordable and practical option of a basic renovation selected.  

He says the renovation outcome was successful, completed on time and on budget. 

“We now have a safe and healthy space the entire South Wairarapa community can be proud of. The refreshed building has better security in the reception area and reflects our rich natural and cultural surroundings, with mana whenua and nature designs being incorporated into the finished building.”   

The refreshed building was blessed at an official opening ceremony earlier this month, led by Herewini Ammunson of Papawai and attended by other mana whenua representatives, Elected Members, Chief Executive Janice Smith, and corporate staff from both SWDC and neighbouring Wairarapa councils. 

ENDS

Media contact – media@swdc.govt.nz