Curtain rises on $14.5m Turner Centre transformation

A bold $14.5 million vision to revitalise Kerikeri's Turner Centre has received a major boost, with the Government committing $3 million to the project through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF).

Far North District Council, which owns the building, is also contributing financially to the project (although the exact amount is yet to be decided), alongside two significant philanthropic donations already confirmed by local trusts. Together, the Government, council and philanthropic support provide significant momentum to rejuvenate the town’s home for arts and events.

The $14.5 million revitalisation responds directly to feedback received during community consultation four years ago. This included the building being tired, dated and lacking the flexibility and modern functionality people need. The redevelopment will also give the centre a stronger sense of local identity, telling the stories of our people and place.

"This funding is a huge vote of confidence in Kerikeri and the Far North," said Kylie Mooney, Chair of the Kerikeri Civic Trust. "The community told us what they wanted, and this is the first big step toward delivering it."

Far North Mayor Kahika Moko Tepania also welcomed the investment, describing it as a boost for the whole district.

“Our Turner Centre is a regional taonga and this funding commitment from central government is a huge win for the Far North,” he said. “I can’t wait to see this vision come to life, creating a vibrant, modern space that celebrates our people, supports local businesses, and welcomes generations of residents and visitors through its doors.”

A four-phase vision

The project will be delivered in four phases allowing the centre to stay open throughout construction:

• Phase One: Event Centre and Plaza redevelopment, positioning the Turner Centre as a premier conference and events venue for Northland.
• Phase Two: A new art gallery and café, creating a place to visit every day.
• Phase Three: A redeveloped lobby, improved accessibility and a new lift, opening up more of the building to everyone.
• Phase Four: Auditorium and backstage upgrades for performers, hirers and community groups.

Why it matters

The current facilities are becoming less competitive, resulting in lost conference and event opportunities. Commercial events and venue hire provide revenue that enables the Turner Centre to deliver high-quality programming for the community. This revenue helps fund $226,500 a year in community discounts and 10,000 free or pay-what-you-choose tickets, including 5000 for tamariki and rangatahi. Without revitalisation, that funding base is at risk.

The redevelopment will mean more performances and events, more flexible programming, better spaces for local groups and bring more visitors from outside the region.

The benefits for the district from Phase One alone are significant:

• $3 million of construction-phase economic impact stays in Northland
• $17.5 million in new visitor spending unlocked over eight years
• 2415 additional commercial room nights booked a year by Year 8
• 86 additional events a year by Year 8.

"The Turner Centre already welcomes around 45,000 visitors a year and is used by hundreds of local people and groups," said Gerry Paul, General Manager. "This investment will let us do far more for our community and for the businesses that rely on visitors coming to town."

The journey continues

It is also the start, not the finish. The Turner Centre is now launching a fundraising campaign to complete the full $14.5 million project, inviting businesses, trusts, foundations and individuals to join the journey and leave a legacy for future generations.

Detailed design for Phase One is complete, developed with Jasmax architects in partnership with Ngāti Rēhia. The Turner Centre is now preparing to welcome conference and event bookings for spring and summer 2027 in a newly revitalised facility.

Image: The council's State of the Far North Address is held at the Turner Centre.