We’re holding a series of community workshops to explore how the heritage of 125 Grey Street can be recognised as part of its future development.
Background
The property at 125 Grey Street was home to St George’s School from 1927 until 2011. Since then, it has been used by several organisations, including the YMCA and the New Zealand International Commercial Pilots Academy.
Reports show that most of the buildings on site are now in poor condition, with independent assessments showing they are earthquake-prone and contain asbestos.
In July 2025, following public consultation, the council agreed to lease the site to Te Oranganui Trust for the development of a community health and wellbeing campus. This will involve the deconstruction of most of the older buildings, with opportunities to reuse materials and incorporate heritage elements in the new development.
The resolution was to deconstruct the buildings at 125 Grey Street, and lease the site long-term to Te Oranganui Trust, subject to:
- The deconstruction of the buildings commencing after a long-term lease has been signed, which demonstrates the commitment to the project by Te Oranganui Trust; and
- Council officers working with Te Oranganui Trust and the Whanganui Regional Heritage Trust and other interested community members, to ensure that any development at the site recognises the heritage value of the site in a meaningful way.
The council decision followed a public survey completed by more than 800 people, with a majority supporting leasing the site to Te Oranganui, while also identifying the importance of recognising the site’s history.
A petition that had more than 200 signatures supported keeping the buildings on site.
Why we’re seeking input
The workshops are an opportunity for people with knowledge, memories, or an interest in the site to share their ideas. This feedback will help inform design decisions of any heritage recognition and ensure the history of the site is appropriately recognised alongside its new use.
About the workshops
The workshops will explore practical ways to reflect the site’s heritage within the new build. This could include:
- Plaques or interpretive panels outlining the site’s history
- Reuse of original materials, such as timber or bricks
- Memorials, artworks or installations incorporating elements from the original buildings
Feedback gathered during these sessions will be used to guide how the heritage of 125 Grey Street is acknowledged in the future. Unfortunately, site visits are not available due to health and safety considerations.
Registrations
Registrations closed at 5.00pm on Friday, 29 August 2025.