Conservation Project

After almost a century of use, Government House Wellington underwent a significant conservation project that, while respecting heritage values, has ensured it meets modern building standards and the needs of a 21st Century Governor-General. To find out more, place your cursor over each of the buttons.

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    The building's sprinklers and smoke detectors were upgraded to be compliant with current standards. Modifications have improved effectiveness and reduced potential damage.

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    The first floor stucco plaster and degraded flashings were replaced.

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    The roof was replaced. About 200,000 tiles were imported and installed to maintain the authenticity of the original design.

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    Improvements were made to the grounds and out-buildings. The site and grounds were reconfigured to eliminate traffic congestion issues and improve shelter and access.

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    The services had exceeded their design life. The water supply, wastewater, storm water drains, power, lighting, heating systems and communications were replaced.

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    Access has been improved with lifts and ramps installed to provide disabled access as well as enhancing for ceremonial and community function access.

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    A number of its key heritage features, including the original colour scheme, were restored to return to the original design intentions

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    Significant structural strengthening to the foundations, walls and roof-wall connections was undertaken to ensure the building meets current design standards.

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    The inefficient and outdated heating and lighting was replaced with environmentally friendly solutions. Insulation and energy efficent boilers were installed.

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    Environmentally sustainable design including solar water heating, insulation, rainwater collection, low energy use appliances and installation of a building management system.

Next page:Overview

Her MajestyQueen Elizabeth II became New Zealand's Queen on 6 February 1952. To mark her Diamond Jubilee, a special section of the Governor-General's website has been created.
Find out more.

Features

  • Open to view - credentials ceremonies
    Watch the video of a credentials ceremony at Government House
  • Western Bay of Plenty regional visit
    The Governor-General makes his first official visit.
  • Open Days
    Government House opens its doors to mark the Diamond Jubilee
  • Christchurch and Canterbury Earthquake Anniversary
    The Governor-General's Programme
  • Waitangi Celebrations 2012
    The Governor-General's first Waitangi Day Programme
  • Governor-General's New Year Message
    Sir Jerry Mateparae issues his 1st New Year message - watch the video
  • State Opening of Parliament
    Governor-General announces the Government's plans
  • Speaker-elect confirmation ceremony
    Dr Smith confirmed as Speaker of the House
  • Appointment of the new Government
    The Governor-General appoints the new Government
  • Queen's Diamond Jubilee Emblem
    New emblem to mark the Diamond Jubilee
  • Rugby World Cup
    Message from the Queen of New Zealand on the All Blacks' victory
  • State Swearing-in of Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae
    A Government House short film
  • Royal NZ Navy 70th Anniversary
    The Governor-General hosted and attended associated events
  • New Zealand Gallantry Awards
    Government House has today issued a special honours list
  • One year on from the 4 September 2010 Canterbury earthquake
    Governor-General issues a message
  • Swearing in ceremony
    Sir Jerry Mateparae to become NZ's 20th Governor-General
  • Sir Paul Reeves
    New Zealand's first Governor-General of Maori descent dies
  • Visit by King George Tupou V of Tonga
    The Governor-General hosted a State Welcome for the King of Tonga
  • Māori King visits Government House
    The King plants a tree to mark the visit
  • Matariki
    The Governor-General's 2011 Matariki Message
  • The Royal Wedding
    Sir Anand and Lady Susan attended the Royal Wedding on 29 April
  • ANZAC Day message
    The Governor-General's message for ANZAC Day commemorations
  • The National Christchurch Memorial Service
    Details and photos are available here.
  • Christchurch Earthquake
    Governor-General offers the support of all New Zealanders
  • Canterbury earthquake
    World leaders send messages of support to New Zealand
  • Waitangi Day 2011
    Sir Anand Satyanand's last Waitangi Day as Governor-General
  • New Year Message
    Governor-General issues his message for 2011
  • Pike River Mine Tragedy
    World leaders send messages of support to New Zealand
  • Governor-General visits Canterbury
    A visit to support and encourage those affected by the earthquake
  • New Year Message
    Governor-General issues his message for 2010
  • Governor-General's 2009 New Year Message
    New Zealanders urged to volunteer