Rotorua's most iconic building will be closed indefinitely with the loss of about 20 jobs.
Museum director Stewart Brown made the announcement at a press conference yesterday, saying the museum would remain closed until at least April when the results of a detailed seismic assessment were expected to be known.
However, he said he had no idea what the report would uncover or if extensive repair work and earthquake strengthening would need to be undertaken, which would mean the museum would have to remain closed for a much longer period. The original part of the Rotorua Museum, built in 1908, suffered further damage after the Kaikoura earthquake a few weeks ago and was closed as a precautionary measure.
"We expect to have a report following that assessment in April next year and at that time we will be able to consider the longer term future of the museum and any work that's needed.
"In the interests of staff and public safety, the museum will remain closed until further notice."
Rotorua Museum director Stewart Brown was visibly upset after announcing the iconic building would be closed indefinitely yesterday.
The new damage inside the building, that has for many years had cracks which have been marked and monitored, prompted the museum to be closed as a safety precaution.
The damage is limited to the historical, central part of the building, and includes cracking and movement in walls, ceilings, floor slabs, beams and columns.
"Given the new level of risk is unknown and knowing how long the detailed assessment is likely to take, we've had to make the decision to close until further notice.
"It's upsetting for everybody that we are having to do this - we have some excellent, very passionate staff and this was the last thing we wanted to have to do."
He said about 20 staff, largely employed in front-of-house, retail and cafe operations, would remain employed until the end of January before they would be made redundant or found other jobs within the council or with local tourism firms.
A further 23 staff would remain employed and would run exhibitions in the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre and Energy Events Centre.
"We need to retain a core of staff to continue those museum operations which we are able to relocate to other venues while we work through this process.
"We wanted to give them certainty, either way, before Christmas so they have the opportunity to find work."
Staff will have access to the council's employee assistance programme and additional support.
"We understand this is an awful time of the year for people to be going through such a process but public and staff safety has to be our key priority," Mr Brown said.
The council's Operations and Monitoring Committee chairman Charles Sturt said it was devastating.
"I really feel for Stewart and his staff who have turned that place around, even with free entry for locals."
He said with the museum turning over about $2.5 million annually the council would need to keep an even closer eye on its finances.
"It is a must-see venue for Rotorua and council has been reaping those rewards."
Mr Sturt said he hoped central government, with local charities and philanthropic organisations could help pay for any repair costs.
Heritage New Zealand lower northern area manager Ben Pick said the organisation had been working with the council on its plans to seismically strengthen the historic building before the Kaikoura earthquake. It would continue to offer advice, he said.
Destination Rotorua chief executive Michelle Templer said the museum's closure would not have a major impact on visitor numbers to Rotorua this summer.
"Rotorua provides such a robust and iconic visitor experience that we do not believe that its closure alone will deter people from coming."
She said images of the museum would continue to be used to promote the city.
"The 'bathhouse building' is an iconic symbol for Rotorua and one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand.
"While visitors will be unable to see the classic interior, we hope that many will still enjoy the beautiful Government Gardens surrounding the building and take advantage of the garden tours that the museum staff are providing."
Mayor Steve Chadwick thanked the community for its support for staff affected by the closure.
"We're very heartened to hear of the support and generous offers of jobs that have been coming in from local businesses and tourism operations and from the wider museum community.
"It's a fabulous community response in a time of adversity and on behalf of our council I'd like to sincerely thank all of those who have come forward to offer help or support of some kind to help make this easier for our museum team."
Mrs Chadwick said there was added reassurance for councillors in knowing a detailed seismic assessment had already started.
