A new era is on the rise in Hawkes Bay with the almost-$24 million investment project nearing completion. The refurbishment and earthquake-strengthening of the heritage Municipal Building in Hastings CBD is forming an integral part of the wider Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre cultural precinct. This building will hold theatre, live music and corporate events – sparking a Hastings renaissance.
The revival of Art and Culture in Hawkes Bay will be accompanied by the $8m Quest Hotel being built behind the Municipal Building, opening in 2022 with 10,000 bed nights per year but no in-house hospitality. Connected to the historic Toitoi Opera House by a new, activated laneway, this space offers opportunity to create a unique Hastings experience – making every customer feel like they’ve discovered Hastings’ best-kept secret!
Such investments from council and private developers creates opportunities for a range of businesses to establish themselves in the Hastings CBD. Hastings District Council Group Manager Corporate Bruce Allan invites expressions of interest for tenants to fill the Municipal Building, with the first round of leases said to be available from early to mid-2022. Spaces are large and include prime sites for both foot traffic and street visibility as locals drive into the city centre from Havelock North.
“These spaces aren’t just special because they’re modern spaces in a heritage building. They’re also part of Toitoi’s wider footprint, which means neighbouring sites are actively working to bring potential customers into these spaces, during the day and at night, seven days a week,” he says.
The Municipal Building is initially seeking tenants in hospitality and retail, while stage two tenancies will focus on boutique or outside-the-box retail offerings. Envision a space for the Hawke’s Bay community and visitors from across the country to come together and celebrate. With more than 100 events and 50,000 visitors each year, Toitoi is an industry leader that needs to be surrounded by innovative businesses that want to get ahead.
