The Tauranga Club, shut because of storm damage and black mould contamination, may not be able to reopen for another 18 months.

With roots dating back to 1894, the club has historically been a space for members and guests to meet, network, dine, socialise, and relax.

Despite their established location at 72 Devonport Road in the Devonport Towers being temporarily shut down, Tauranga Club vice president Phil Green says plans are underway for the club to 'come back bigger and better than ever”.

The closure has given the Clubs Executive committee time to look at a wide range of options for the future of the club, while accommodating the membership-based club.

Although there is a lot of work ahead of the club, the executive committee is confident the club has a 'strong future” ahead of it, which will be 'certainly in a different format and business model” to what the club is used to.

The Club Committee has praised its members, guests, and business associates for supporting and being very understanding of the circumstances that brought about the temporary closure,especially for the support the members and associated industries have shown by helping the Club through this event.