New life for old LH Post Office
‘‘We are hoping other developers will start to invest in the central Hutt business district.’’
The developers behind a $6 million refurbishment of the historic Lower Hutt Post Office, hope it will be the first step in rejuvenating the central city.
In recent years parts of the central business area have come to resemble a ghost town with empty shops and little activity. The city council has a number of projects which it hopes will breathe life back into the area, including a $12.3 million four star hotel and a promenade connecting the city to the river.
Developer Kevin Melville purchased the building for $700,000, after New Zealand Post moved out due to the earthquake risk. Engineers subsequently estimated the building to be between seven and 47 per cent compliant with earthquake standards.
Melville and his business partners spent $6 million strengthening the building and creating 16 apartments, and a large ground floor retailing area.
Many of the original features have been retained, including the grand marble style entranceways and lift, the clock and high ceilings.
Although there are other apartments in the area, the Post Office building is the first largescale refurbishment of an old building.
Lantern Property manager Andrea O’Connell said the developers had taken a risk, building quality apartments in an area that is struggling. She hoped it will be seen as a sign of confidence in Lower Hutt.
‘‘By investing into this building we are hoping other developers will start to invest in the central Hutt business district to help bring it back to life. The more apartments and developments, the more people which attracts more retail and jobs.’’
O’’Connell said no expense had been spared in outfitting the building and retaining features such as the original windows.
The building’s original plaque stone was to be refitted and the hallways lined with historic photos.
She believed the apartments would appeal to professional couples and retirees looking to live in the central city. The apartments, some of which have views of the Hutt River, are to be rented out rather than sold.
Mayor Ray Wallace is delighted with the project. ’’It’s fantastic.The developer is to be highly commended. This redevelopment is a great asset to High Street.’’
Built by the Ministry of Works in 1941, the Lower Hutt Post Office has a Heritage NZ category II listing.