In March 2023, the Winter Gardens were fully re-opened to the public following a complex two-year project to seismically upgrade and undertake major repairs and improvements to the glasshouses and wider site. The repairs and strengthening works were complex and required a number of changes to the structures, which have been carried out with the utmost care and attention to detail to ensure that the heritage values of the place have been protected and enhanced. This icon site has been conserved for the future. This has been accomplished on time and within the original estimates on behalf of Auckland Council.
Salmond Reed Architects was initially commissioned to undertake a measured survey, drone photography and a thorough inspection to assess the condition of the Memorial and produce a conservation statement; in particular in relation to longstanding issues of water ingress to the structure. Detailed historic research was undertaken to fully understand the monument’s significance and history of repairs.
In 2019, Salmond Reed Architects produced a detailed specification of conservation works and coordinated the seismic assessment. During 2021 and 2022, the physical restoration and seismic upgrade was undertaken in 2 phases and involved installation of a structural steel frame in the Crypt and central void, installation of 17 post-tension tie rods, cleaning and conservation repairs to bronze, granite and marble, repairs and painting of the perimeter wall and railings. This complex, challenging project was successfully completed in December 2022.
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