Time’s up for landmark building
Paekā kā riki Surf Lifeguards excited for ‘new chapter'
It's a sad moment to see this chapter of local history close, but we are excited about what the next chapter will bring. Matt Warren
For over 100 years, the Paekākāriki Surf Lifeguards have been serving the community, looking after beachgoers from their home on the southern coastline of Kāpiti.
Since 1964, the club has been operating from its present building, which has served well past its 50-year life expectancy.
After being battered by the environment, the life of the building has finally come to an end with the club farewelling it on October 30 — it will be demolished by the end of the year.
All club members, past and present, and the community will gather to farewell the iconic building, which has not only protected the lives of the community, but provided the venue for many friendships to be fostered, a love and respect for the ocean to be built, and champions to be celebrated.
Club chairman Matt Warren said for almost 60 years this clubhouse has served the community, seeing generations of lifeguards developed to provide lifesaving activities year after year. “It's a sad moment to see this chapter of local history close, but we are excited about what the next chapter will bring.”
Plans for the new building are underway despite challenges raising funds.
The club has been granted a 30-year lease for the new 554 sq m clubrooms, which will sit behind the dunes, about 85m back from the beach.
The multi-purpose design will be a venue for the whole community to use alongside the patrol tower, with ample space for the club to store IRBs and equipment.
The design also enables a group to be using the main area and be undisturbed when the surf club need to access their equipment and patrol tower in the event of an emergency.
Matt said, “Since the initial building of the club things have certainly changed.
“There is just no way we can build a new club with sausage sizzles and bottle drives any more.
“We are now asking our community to help us, so any businesses, families or individuals who want to contribute to a worthy cause, we'd love to hear from you.”
Lifeguarding, surf sports and nippers will still be offered at Paekākāriki in the coming seasons from temporary accommodation while the new clubrooms are being built.
The club farewell will be held at 12.30pm on October 30.
“Come and help us say goodbye to the clubrooms with a blessing from our iwi, sausage sizzle and fun for the kids.”
Full club training will take place after the formalities.