Rūnanga - United We Stand - save a True Icon of New Zealand's Heritage

For 116 years, the Rūnanga Miners' Hall has stood as a beacon of our heritage. This grand yet practical building, seating around 750, was rebuilt in under 8 months in 1937 following a suspicious fire that destroyed the 1908 Hall. Both Halls were all-inclusive cultural, entertainment and sporting centres. Generations have grown up attending, clubs, benefit concerts, plays, musicals, dances, and flower shows; but most memorable for many, were the ‘pictures’ that have been shown in the Miners' Hall almost since its opening.

The Hall has also been a stage for political activists whose organisational skills have been crucial in developing the shape of our democracy in New Zealand and influencing events even further afield.

Damage from a 2014 cyclone saw ownership of the Hall passed to a Trust, who have used the insurance money and other grants for restoration. The roof has been fixed, earthquake strengthening completed and three walls repaired - but the iconic facade remains in disrepair.

This is a pressing issue for Rūnanga. Cost inflation means the Trust needs an extra $200,000 to finish these exterior works.

The Trust is building to costed and engineer-approved plans that will complete the restoration of the front wall and reinstate the veranda to a modern earthquake-resistant standard. Central to these plans are the reinstatement of the 1930s joinery and the instantly recognisable signwriting which has inspired the locals of Rūnanga for those 116 years - "United We Stand".