Two treasured iconic historic buildings in Featherston have been repaired, restored and renovated.

The council undertook the work on the Featherston Courthouse and Anzac Hall, both landmarks in this, the oldest town, in South Wairarapa. The work on Anzac Hall was scheduled in the Long-Term Plan while the work on Featherston Courthouse was done when asbestos was detected.

The Featherston Courthouse

The work includes the restoration of several significant historic features, which were surprise finds that were uncovered during repairs. One of the most significant discoveries was made in the main courtroom, where the removal of an old board revealed the original fireplace. Fortunately, a tiler was on site, who was able to seamlessly incorporate fire hearth tiles, restoring the majestic appeal of the fireplace. To further improve the space, an engineer was engaged to ensure the installation prevented drafts from entering the building.

Above: The original fireplace in the main courtroom of the historic Featherston Courthouse was discovered and restored.

Above: Before the full restoration on the fireplace which was uncovered in the Featherston Courthouse’s main courtroom.

Key features were also modernised, including the removal of asbestos that was detected in the floor coverings, prompting the involvement of a professional asbestos removal company.  The electrical insulator on the meter board and panel also contained asbestos, which was removed and replaced with a modern unit.  

A special mention goes to the Featherston Menz Shed, whose members played an integral role in the courthouse’s upgrade by designing, constructing and installing a custom built kitchen unit. The restoration was a community effort, with contractors and volunteers working together to preserve the building’s historic charm. Now that the restoration is complete, South Wairarapa District Council is pleased to hand over the courthouse to its new lessee, ensuring this treasured landmark continues to serve the community. The courthouse was officially leased on Saturday, 7 February 2025.

Above: The historic Featherston Courthouse has been renovated repaired and ready for a new tenant, who officially took over the lease on Saturday 7 February 2025.

Anzac Hall

Whenever a pivotal moment from war is mentioned, Featherston is not far behind and now the town’s Anzac Hall has had further renovations to retain its historic appeal. The work was finished at the start of this year, 2025, but the process of repair and restoration work began in July 2024. This followed on from being on South Wairarapa District Council’s radar in its Long-Term Plan.

Above: Work on the clerestory windows and flashings helps to preserve the interior of the building from the elements.

Above: Repairs to Anzac Hall’s clerestory windows and flashings bring the building up to standard for its Heritage-1 listing.

Anzac Hall clerestory windows and flashings

The latest restoration work to Anzac Hall in Featherston is to the clerestory windows and flashings. This work has been successfully completed, marking a significant step in preserving this Heritage 1-listed building. The contractor, WaiBuild, was responsible for repairing the clerestory windows and flashings to prevent rain entering the building. WaiBuild’s work has been completed to a high standard, ensuring the historic hall remains safeguarded from the elements of Mother Nature for years to come. Tasks that remain on the radar include the removal of security fencing and leftover materials. It is anticipated that this will be completed by mid February.

This latest restoration highlights the magnificent heritage of Anzac Hall, which is a powerful reminder of Featherston’s significant military history.