Elements of Kaikohe demolition live on

It may be the end of an era for two well-known buildings on the corner of Broadway and Raihara streets in Kaikohe, but high-value material from the demolition site will continue to contribute to the town’s economy.

Prior to preparations for Kaikohe’s new library and civic hub, an assessment was undertaken of the two buildings and which materials could be safely and sustainably repurposed. Unfortunately, potentially hazardous materials including asbestos in both buildings limited the recycling options.

However, wherever possible, the council has instructed contractors to recycle or repurpose materials that do not present a hazard. Any concrete that can be recycled is being reused at the old quarry in Kaikohe (near the aerodrome) and all usable structural steel and iron is being recycled by Eddie Court in Kaikohe.

Other materials from the demolished buildings will not be recycled due to the prohibitive cost this would incur for ratepayers.

Demolition work on the site started on Monday 15 July. The full demolition process is due to be completed by early September.

Far North Holdings Limited has been appointed to project manage clearing the site and building the new civic hub.

Go to the Kaikohe Library and Civic Hub website for more information.

Far North Holdings Limited is the commercial and asset management arm of Far North District Council. It manages property, maritime and transport assets on behalf of Far North ratepayers and is focused on boosting investment and employment for the benefit of Northland communities.