An artist's impression of what the new police building will look like in Taradale. Image / NZ Police
An artist's impression of what the new police building will look like in Taradale. Image / NZ Police
A small police base in Napier’s Taradale town centre is set for an upgrade and expansion.
Demolition of the closed police station on Gloucester St is expected to begin on September 22, followed by construction of a new two-storey building starting in January 2026.
The upgrade is aimed at betterserving police and the Hawke’s Bay community.
The new building could be ready as early as April 2026 as it will be built using a modular system, with modules constructed in a factory then transported to the site.
The existing station was closed in 2023 because of an internal property issue, police stated.
The closed Taradale police station which is set to be demolished. Photo / NZ Police
The new base will accommodate up to 50 police staff working in a range of roles, and will relieve pressure on workspace for police staff across Hawke’s Bay.
“The new Taradale police base will provide a modern work environment with a design tailored for the site and police’s needs,” Hawke’s Bay Area Commander Inspector Lincoln Sycamore said.
“This type of building means its construction on-site will be quick and will minimise disruption to the public.”
Like the old station, the new Taradale police base will not have front counter services.
An artist's impression of the new police base in Taradale. Image / NZ Police
Demolition of the old station is planned to be completed in four weeks.
Inspector Sycamore said this work may be disruptive to the public at times, and communication is under way with neighbouring properties and local businesses.
The site is also home to a memorial to slain police officer Senior Constable Len Snee.
“I want to reassure the Hawke’s Bay community that before the demolition begins, Len’s memorial in the grounds will be protected and looked after safely on site until it can be replaced once construction of the new base is completed.
“We’re looking forward to this new phase for police in Taradale.”
