Allendale update  

Remedial work on the Trust’s Ponsonby home, Allendale House, is progressing well with the building now plastic-wrapped for weather-proofing while the original slate roof is replaced.

Trustline newsletter, March 2011

The Trust sees the preservation of the 120-year-old historic building as a part of its commitment to support the heritage sector in Auckland and Northland. Specialist heritage architecture and construction companies Salmond Reid and Wilkran Construction have been engaged to oversee the project, especially for their expertise in working on heritage buildings.

When the remedial work is complete, the building will have a new slate roof with an expected life of up to another 100 years. The building is also being earthquake proofed and a fire sprinkler system will be installed.

The finished project will also reflect the Trust’s commitment to the environment, with a modern air conditioning system expected to recover 90% of the heat from air before it leaves the building. Exchangers will transfer the heat to incoming fresh air, making the building more energy efficient.
The Trust aims to reduce its carbon footprint and Allendale House already has CEMARS (Certified Emissions Measurement And Reduction Scheme) certification, monitored by Landcare Research.

Once the remedial work is completed, new solar panels will provide hot water, and a rainwater harvesting system will capture water for non-drinking purposes. This will not only reduce run-off into the city’s storm water system, but will reduce the amount of reticulated water used in the building each year.  

We expect to move back to Allendale House in the second half of 2011. Meanwhile, our temporary office is at 8 College Hill in Freemans Bay. The Trust’s telephone, postal and email contact details remain the same.