Waikato District Council contractors this week completed the restoration of the outside of one of Raglan’s most well-known buildings.
The Old School – parts of which date back to the 19th Century – has historical protected status and the work was aimed at replacing weatherboards and repainting the entire exterior.
The work followed the cleaning and repainting of the corrugated iron roof last year and the installation of a new concrete parking area in 2023.
The Raglan Arts Centre committee chair, Rodger Gallagher, said the work by contractors Cushman and Wakefield is the result of the committee working closely with WDC’s Facilities Team on planning the maintenance needed.
“Ït is gratifying to see the old building, sections of which are now 143 years old, looking so good. The Old School is now ready to continue serving Raglan’s thriving arts community for the next 20 years,” Rodger said.
The Art Centre remained open throughout the restoration work, hosting everything from an art exhibition to film shows, yoga classes, live music and a play.
The repaint coincides with the relaunch of the Art Centre gallery under the guidance of local artist Ruth Hickman.
