For two months the Thames War memorial has been shrouded with scaffolding while repairs to its plaster surface have been carried out.

So it's with great delight that the Thames-Coromandel District Council announces the full restoration of the memorial should be completed in time for the Armistice Day commemorations on November 11.

The monument was originally unveiled on ANZAC Day in 1925 and commemorates those from the Thames area who were killed in World War One.

The repair work was partly funded by a Lotteries grant of $59,990, and while the work requiring scaffolding has been completed, additional work inside and around the base will continue.

'In late 2015 some cracking was noticed on the upper sections of the structure,” says TCDC Parks and Reserves manager Derek Thompson.

'The plaster on the memorial appears not to have had a protective coating applied to it when it was first built, and over time this has led to a deterioration of the plaster. Coupled with this, there was never a dripline designed or installed on the overhang at the top.

'We've had 90 years of rain water sheeting across the face, more than would normally be anticipated, slowly eroding the plaster which has, over time, eventually eroded to form a crack.”

Thanks to the Lotteries WW1 Commemorations, Environment and Heritage Fund grant, council was able to commission a Conservation Management Plan. Then, with a further successful funding bid from LWEH in June, the physical restoration work began in August.

The crack has since been repaired, a new coating of plaster applied in the damaged areas and repairs to the top cap have been carried out to help protect the face of the structure.

Monument and memorial restoration specialists Architectural Building Conservation Ltd have carried out the restoration work while Matthews and Matthews Architects Ltd, who are themselves specialist conservation architects, have been providing oversight in quality control and advice.

Local contractors have been used as much as possible on the scaffolding, security fencing, engineering and electrical work, adds Derek.

'As much of the work is restorative, there will not be a dramatic difference to the look of the structure.

'The restoration will allow it to stand against time and weather for more years to come, ensuring the continued opportunity for a contemplative space and a place to remember those who served in WWI.

On November 11 following the Armistice Day commemoration at the Thames War Memorial Civic Centre, which will mark the 98th anniversary of WW1 end, a short wreath-laying ceremony will be held at the restored monument.