A four-year refurbishment of Auckland's Aotea Centre has been completed.
Auckland's Aotea Centre has had a $67.5m revamp. Photo: Supplied
The $67.5 million works are the first major revamp of the centre since it opened in 1990 and are part of Auckland Council's 10-year $133 million midtown regeneration programme.
The works included waterproofing and aesthetic upgrades to the building's exterior and the addition of a large-scale digital art installation celebrating Te Ao Māori.
Additional strengthening and installation of an almost-frameless glass balustrade on the centre's top level means visitors will be able to enjoy extensive views of Aotea Square.
New lighting, floor and wall treatments have also been added, with award-winning bilingual wayfinding on all levels.
The landmark building first opened in 1990 and sits at the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau's theatre district. Photo: Supplied
Aotearoa multi-disciplinary artist Lisa Reihana's work Ihi features in the centre's refreshed foyers.
One of the country's most significant contemporary works of Māori art, the work tells the story of Ranginui and Papatūānuku on two 65 sqm screens that can be viewed from three levels.
"Ihi is an important addition to Aotearoa New Zealand's public art," said Auckland Unlimited chief executive Nick Hill, "and the centre houses many other significant works that are free for the community to come in and enjoy.
Auckland Unlimited chief executive Nick Hill says the Aotea Centre houses many significant art works, including a new large-scale digital art installation by multi-disciplinary artist Lisa Reihana. Photo: Supplied
Hill said the Aotea Centre had a legacy of hosting world-class shows, conventions and events and the redevelopment put it on the global stage.
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff said the refurbished venue would attract visitors from around New Zealand and - once borders fully reopened - the world.
