Ladies’ Rest upgrade complete

Published on 20 December 2013

20 December 2013

The women’s public restrooms, known as the Ladies’ Rest, in St Hill Street have been refurbished and were opened today by Mayor Annette Main and Women’s Network manager Carla Donson.

Six new toilets have been installed, as well as a parents’ room and an accessible toilet. The smaller children’s toilet has been replaced with a more modern version. A new bench top and washbasins were also included in the improvements. The foyer has been upgraded and the door from the foyer to the toilet block has been widened for wheelchair and mobility scooter access.

The restroom section of the Ladies’ Rest has also been earthquake strengthened.

Mayor Annette Main is pleased with the upgrade.

“The upgraded interior of Ladies’ Rest is light, airy and is easily accessible, with safety and comfort in mind, while the outside of the building retains its art deco charm. In 1930 this facility was purpose-built as a women’s restroom. We were the first place in New Zealand to offer public toilets for women.

“The public image of towns is often judged on the standard of their public toilets and it is great we now have a more user friendly facility for locals and visitors in time for a busy summer of events and activities,” says Mayor Main.

Mayor Main also acknowledged regular users and Royal Wanganui Opera House and Women’s Network staff and volunteers for their patience during the upgrade.

“I know there were complaints not only about the inconvenience but also about the need to upgrade this facility at all. The simple fact is, we have had a sub-standard facility for women for a long time and I am sure users will appreciate the upgrade.”

Carla Donson says the upgrade of the Ladies’ Rest, which adjoins the Women’s Network, benefits both locals and women visiting the city.

“The new look is great and from every part of the facility you can see the front door, which is important for safety. They are also accessible for people who use wheelchairs, mobility scooters and for the elderly, so they cater for all walks of life. The Women’s Network campaigned for the refurbishment, so I am glad it has happened. We have already had several women through the door and they are amazed by the difference.”