Te Ara Mātauranga, Waihī Beach’s new library and service centre, will soon welcomes its first visitors, but a group of Year 6 student leaders are already part of the opening chapter.
While the building was under construction, the eight students from Waihī Beach School were given a hard-hat tour, getting a firsthand look at the evolving space.
Chosen not only for their leadership roles, but also for their keen interest in literacy, construction, and their local community, the students were kitted out in full safety gear and given a detailed tour of the site.
As part of the tour, they learned about the intricate electrical wiring running through the roof and sophisticated ventilation and heating systems designed to ensure optimal air quality and temperature.
Arranged by Western Bay of Plenty District Council and construction company Hawkins, the students visited during a lunch break while there were no workers on site, following a ‘safe walking route’ that was mapped out for their visit.
Surrounded by timber frames and tools, the students used their imaginations to picture the future layout and asked questions about the library’s future use and operating hours.
“A behind-the-scenes tour was a fantastic opportunity to show them the care and expertise involved in building a facility like this. Seeing their excitement and curiosity reminds us why we build community spaces like this, which will bring people together for years to come,” says Hawkins Site Manager James Reynolds.
Rachael Coll, Waihī Beach School Tumaki (Principal), says the experience offered the students a tangible understanding of a significant community project and sparked their curiosity about the practicalities of building design.
“Waihī Beach School has a long-standing and cherished relationship with our local library. Through regular visits from all classrooms to the existing facility, our tamariki have developed strong bonds with the library and council staff,” says Rachael.
The new facility will significantly strengthen the community and social benefits for tamariki, providing an expanded, safe, and inclusive space where they can interact with peers and adults, access a wider array of diverse resources and information, and continue to foster their love for learning, adds Rachael.
“Regular visits to the community library equip students with more than just books, we're fostering relationships that extend far beyond their school years. It builds lasting connections and a sense of belonging, ensuring a vital support system throughout their lives. This new library will undoubtedly become a cornerstone for student growth and community engagement for years to come.”
Rachael Davie, Council’s General Manager Strategy and Community, says it was great to see the students bring the building to life in its early stages, with their curiosity and enthusiasm.
“Te Ara Mātauranga represents more than just a building — it’s a place where our community’s stories will be shared, knowledge will grow, and connections will flourish. Involving our young leaders early on gives them a sense of ownership and pride in a facility designed for them and future generations,” she says.
“We look forward to seeing them — and the whole community — come back soon to enjoy all the learning, creativity, and connection this new facility will offer.”
Te Ara Mātauranga will open on 1 July – a blessing will be held at 10am and people will be able to step inside the new space from 2pm.
For updates on the project, visit: yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz/te-ara-matauranga
