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A $400,000 upgrade of the Warkworth Museum has started.
The project will bring the museum up to current building and fire compliance and, in the long term, will address accessibility issues to the upper level with the installation of a lift. Stage one will focus on compliance issues, which have to be addressed before the lift can be installed. The work is being funded through a grant and a significant contribution by the museum.
Museum vice president Jo Haswell says the installation of a lift will allow internal access to upstairs displays, facilities and resources, including the archive and research centre and textiles department, to a wider demographic.
“At present, a number of our older visitors and those with mobility issues have difficulty accessing this part of the museum by the current steep and narrow staircase,” Haswell says.
“These visitors are missing out on seeing the displays in that area and having access to the many documents, records, artifacts and textile items on our upper floor.”
An analysis of 2022 visitor feedback showed that the upstairs displays were the most popular part of the museum.
Haswell says the lift will also benefit volunteers when moving displays, artifacts and records around the museum.
“This happens on a regular basis and using appropriate trolleys to move documents and artifacts is considered museum best practice.
“But, at present, this is done manually using the existing staircase, which can be challenging for our older volunteers. Access to a lift will make this process much easier and safer.
“We understand that it is a difficult fiscal environment to be raising funds in, so realistically it may be 2026 before the lift is installed. It will happen when funds are raised, but we are pleased that the total project has started.”
Lions help fundraise
The Lions Club of the Kowhai Coast is organising a fundraiser to help the museum meet some of the costs involved in the upgrade. Members have organised a Wardrobe Revival fun fashion afternoon, which will be held at the Warkworth Bowls Club, Mill Lane, on Tuesday August 6. As well as a homemade afternoon tea, outfits from op shops will be modelled for both men and women. Tickets are $20 (cash only). Doors will open at 1.30pm for a 2pm start.
