Tokoroa East Primary School’s old library has turned a page and been given a second life as the new Te Puna Community Centre.

The building has been renovated and relocated to Maramatanga Park, where it will host an array of clubs and community groups.

The old Te Puna Community Centre was demolished in April, due to needing extensive and costly repairs to make it safe – with as much of the building recycled as possible.

The decision to close and demolish the Centre was made in 2022 by building owners Te Puna Community Centre Committee, with technical advice and support provided by Council, who owns the land.

The old centre being torn down in April. Supplied photo.

“Over the years the Centre has provided an important hub for local sports groups and other community organisations. We know many people in the community will have fond memories of time spent there,” says Western Bay of Plenty District Council Operations Manager Kerrie Little.

“But, sadly, the building was no longer safe, and it would have been too costly to bring it up to standard. We will continue our conversations with sports clubs and other community groups to help them find a permanent, viable solution for the future.”

A small opening ceremony was held to mark the opening of the new centre, with a karakia by Rawiri Kuka and welcome by Western Bay of Plenty Mayor James Denyer.

This refurbished building will remain on site until a decision is made about permanent facilities at the park.

For bookings, contact Richard Comyn, of the Te Puna Community Centre Committee, on 027 552 0917.

The Te Puna Community Centre opening was attended by representatives from Pirirakau, Council, the Te Puna Community Centre Committee, New Zealand Police, and A & J Demolition. From left, Jenni Hendri, John Scrimgeour, Don Thwaites, Jeff Brownless, Richard Comyn, Julie Shepherd, Jim McCrone, James Denyer, John Campbell, Tawhai Schuster, Rawiri Kuka, Roy Lehndorf, Kerrie Little and Karaina Hetutu-Tuhakaraina.