Party planned for new library

11 October 2016

Te Awamutu's new library will open with a day-long celebration next Friday - and everyone is invited.

The $4.4 million building will officially open on October 21 with a formal ribbon cutting ceremony at 10am. Newly re-elected Waipa mayor Jim Mylchreest will do the honours following a formal blessing from local iwi.

Celebrations will continue throughout the day with the library staying open until 8pm.

Construction of the $4.4 million dollar solar-powered building was managed by Waipa District Council and has been completed on time and on budget. Friday's official opening will throw open the doors to a purpose-built 1400 square meter facility able to offer a range of new programmes, including increased school holiday programmes.

The library, in line with other libraries in New Zealand, will also offer free wifi and has a space set aside specifically for community use.

Friday's activities include live music, face painting, competitions and outdoor games including giants sets of chess, chequers and jenga. The Te Awamutu Intermediate school's kapa haka group will perform.

Te Awamutu's Events Centre across the road has joined the party, offering a free hydroslide pass for children from 3pm- 5pm. Free hydroslide passes can be picked up from the library building (noting the normal admission fee to the pools applies).

Regular library opening hours will be from 9am - 5pm on Mondays and Thursdays, from 9.30am - 5pm on Tuesday, from 9am-8pm on Wednesdays and Fridays and on Saturdays from 9.30am - 1pm.

Media enquiries, contact Jeanette Tyrrell (on behalf of council) 027 507 7599