Tāhuhu link bridge
Key to the creation of a recorded and documentary heritage campus is the link bridge that connects the new Archives building to the National Library building.
Enabling structure to connect the link bridge to the National Library building
Construction has started on a two-level link bridge, connecting the new Archives building to the National Library building in Wellington.
The current focus for the construction of the link bridge is the enabling structure. The enabling structure is the piece of sophisticated engineering and design that will allow the link bridge structure from the new Archives building to join with the National Library building. This is not only beautiful and functional, it is also an engineering feat due to the varying seismic performances of the two buildings.
Construction work on the enabling structure is beginning on 3 April 2023 until September 2024. Visitors to the National Library will notice some changes from 28 March 2023.
The He Tohu interactive exhibition will be removed with He Whakapapa Kōrero (the document room) remaining open.
Some areas in the reading room will be closed off to the public to accommodate protective hoardings. There will be some changes to the desk layout. Collection delivery times and turnaround times for some items will also change.
To find out more about these changes visit natlib.govt.nz
Alterations to the current National Library building will enable co-location and greater collaboration between the National Library of New Zealand, Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision and Archives New Zealand. This project is also core to the creation of a vibrant new campus-like setting where visitors can access and learn about our nation’s recorded and documentary heritage with three of these major institutions in one place.
Enabling structure estimated timeline
January to February 2023: Test deconstruction, vibration and noise
April to May 2023: Site set up
May to June 2023: Demolition
July 2023 to September 2024: Construction
Find answers to your questions about the enabling structure and its construction.
Construction work at the National Library FAQs
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Why have a link bridge?
The link bridge provides an opportunity to create a recorded and documentary heritage campus. It allows for easy transfers between buildings and better collaboration between Archives New Zealand, the National Library of New Zealand and Ngā Taonga, helping improve user access to our culture, stories and traditions for future generations.
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What are the different stages of the enabling structure construction?
There will be three stages of work:
Site set up
Demolition
Construction.
Before these start a facade panel will be removed as a test to assist with project and business planning.
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When is the enabling structure being built?
Once the test phase of construction has been completed in February, the main construction works for the enabling structure is expected to occur over an 18-month period, beginning in April 2023 through to September 2024.
The timing is being driven by the construction programme for the new Archives building, which is expected to open to the public in 2026.
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What are the seismic implications of this construction work?
The construction to the National Library incorporates some structural alterations. These alterations meet New Zealand building code requirements, within the Wellington seismic zone. This means the seismic performance of the building is not compromised.
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Will He Tohu and our founding documents be safe during these construction works?
Hoardings will be erected to sections of the perimeter surrounding the document room. Access to the document room will be maintained in a way that mitigates any potential risk to the taonga within.