Naylor Love confirmed as contractor for Te Ara Whetū, our new library hub for Waikanae

Kāpiti Coast District Council has confirmed Naylor Love as the main construction contractor to build Te Ara Whetū, the new library hub for Waikanae.

Chief Executive Darren Edwards says signing the construction contract for the $15.4 million project is a major milestone.

“Naylor Love was appointed as our contractor partner in March under an ‘Early Contractor Involvement’ (ECI) contract model,” says Mr Edwards.

“The ECI process allowed Naylor Love to work alongside Council’s in-house project managers and the design team to ensure we can deliver a high-quality library within budget.”

The benefits Naylor Love brought to the design process include:

• cost efficiencies and buildability expertise – providing expert advice on materials and construction methods has helped reduce costs and ensure the design can be delivered efficiently and safely
• support for local businesses - engaging suppliers early has provided opportunities for local subcontractors to be part of the construction team
• budget and programme planning – preparing reliable costings and a detailed construction programme gives Council confidence the project can be delivered on time and within budget.

Gareth Tickle, Naylor Love’s Regional Director for the Wellington district says his team is looking forward to getting started with the build.

“The vision for the new library has come together beautifully and we’re excited about building this fantastic facility for Waikanae and the Kāpiti District,” said Mr Tickle.

Designed with the community in mind, Te Ara Whetū will transform the former Waikanae library into a modern, accessible library hub which strengthens the resilience of our communities, creates a sense of place and belonging, and provides opportunities to learn, work, and create.

Te Ara Whetū will hold approximately 25,000 books with access available to 40,000 more through the Smart Libraries scheme, as well as more than 37,000 e-books and 7000 e-audiobooks through our online platform, Libby. Te Ara Whetū will also offer casual study spaces, group discussion zones, and formal meeting spaces.

The main construction works will follow on from the early works which started in September. The new library is expected to open in late 2026.

Visit the website to see the final layout plans and an updated video: Kapiticoast.govt.nz/TeAraWhetu