The refurbished Department of Conservation office in Wanganui's Taupo Quay opens today.
The invitation-only occasion starts at 10.30am, with kaumatua John Maihi leading staff and guests through the main entrance where he will rededicate the carved hoe (paddle) that has been with the department through each of its moves aroundthe city.
Then the group will walk upstairs, where Mr Maihi will open the new whare on the upper storey, a room decorated with carvings to illustrate the partnership between DoC and local Maori.
"It's a comfortable space for iwi and DoC to meet, and for the community to meet with DoC too," DoC Whanganui Area manager Nic Peet said.
Guests include the Director-General of Conservation Al Morrison, Wanganui Mayor Annette Main, leaders from the Nga Rauru, Ngati Apa, Ngati Rangi and Whanganui iwi and from the community groups DoC works with.
The department's 30-odd staff are in the process of moving into the building. Mr Peet said two staff members who lost their jobs have already left, and there will eventually be 20 to 25 there.
The building, renovated and owned by DML Builders, has several energy efficiency features.
It has skylights and water harvested off the roof will be stored and used to flush toilets and for other non-drinking purposes.
