Library building's story draws to a close

The final chapter is approaching for the Kaikohe Library at its Marino Place home as it prepares to turn the page on an exciting new era at the Kaikohe Library and Civic Hub next month.

The library will close its doors for the final time on Saturday 31 October before reopening in the new community space on the corner of Broadway and Raihara Street at 2pm on Monday 9 November, following the opening day celebrations.

Far North District Council Group Manager – Community & Engagement Ruben Garcia says the Marino Place library has been the foundation of library services in Kaikohe for more than 50 years.

“For generations, this building has been a place where our community has come to learn, connect and discover. While it's the end of an era, it's also the beginning of something really exciting. The vision for a new library and civic hub has been many years in the making, and after gathering real momentum in 2025, it's incredibly rewarding to see it finally become a reality.”

The temporary closure will give our Kaikohe library staff time to pack up, move the books and collections, and get everything ready to welcome locals and visitors to the new facility.

During the moving-in period, no books will be due for return, so borrowers can hold onto their items a little longer and return them at our new location.

Public Wi-Fi will also be unavailable from 1pm on Saturday 31 October until services are up and running at the new hub.

Earlier this year, Far North District Council asked for community feedback about the future of the Marino Place building once the library moves out. A decision on its future is currently being considered.

Preparations are well underway for the official unveiling of the Kaikohe Library & Civic Hub on Monday 9 November. Celebrations begin at 5.30am with a formal blessing and ceremony, followed by opportunities to explore the facility, guided tours, community activities, kai, entertainment and tamariki-friendly experiences. The library and hub will officially open for business from 2pm.

If you haven’t yet received an invitation but you would like to be a part of the opening day fun, just RSVP here.

The library and hub, which will also be the council’s service centre, will be a place of learning, connection, and creativity with a range of activities from library collections to a creative Makerspace for kids, meeting rooms, a gaming room, a pop-up recording studio, and a café.

Garcia says the new facility represents much more than simply replacing an ageing library.

“The word ‘hub’ is really important here. We've created something much bigger than a traditional library; a place that brings library and council services together under one roof, while giving our community spaces to meet, learn, create and connect. It's a beautiful facility that will serve Kaikohe for generations to come, and something we hope every resident will feel a real sense of pride and ownership in.”

Below: An artist's impression of the new Kaikohe Library and Civic Hub.