Come along to a guided walkthrough at 125 Grey Street

Published on 30 January 2026

Complex of cream and terracotta brick buildings with chapel shown at right. In the foregound is a green grass lawn and in the background is blue sky.

Whanganui District Council is inviting the community to take part in a guided building walkthrough at 125 Grey Street on Wednesday, 11 February.

The site has been leased to Te Oranganui Trust for the future development of a hauora (wellbeing) hub. Several older buildings on the site will be deconstructed while the newer administration building facing Grey Street and the YMCA Early Childhood Centre will remain.

Chief strategy officer, Sarah O’Hagan, says this is an opportunity for the community to step inside and view the interior of the buildings before planned deconstruction work begins.

“The guided tours, led by the project contractor, will take around 45 minutes each, with group numbers limited to ten due to health and safety requirements.

“This is a viewing opportunity only – the chance to purchase items from the buildings will come later when items are put up for public sale.

“People are welcome to take photos as they go around with the group.”

“In terms of mobility access, there are unfortunately stairs only to the upper level so mobility access is limited to the ground floor.”

She says bookings for the walkthroughs are essential – email your two of three preferred time slots and names of attendees to Natalia.Lessa@whanganui.govt.nz and you will be contacted with your confirmed spot.

“Spaces will be allocated on a first in, first served basis.”

Time slots are listed below.

Visitors to the site will need to wear the appropriate protective gear.

“Please make sure you wear closed-toe footwear on the day – we’ll provide the required safety helmet and hi-vis vest.”

The building has been cleared of asbestos and certified safe.

“The team is looking forward to welcoming visitors to the site,” O’Hagan says. “This is an opportunity to reflect on the history of the site before it starts a new chapter with Te Oranganui as a wellbeing hub that will benefit the whole community.”

Time slots

8:00 – 8:45am
9:00 – 9:45am
10:00 – 10:45am
11:00 – 11:45am
12:00 – 12:45pm
1:00 – 1:45pm
2:00 – 2:45pm
3:00 – 3:45pm
4.00 – 4.45pm