Native timber recycled during nurses’ hostel demolition

Over 130 cubic metres of native timber has been recycled through the demolition of the former Tuakana Hostel, which is now complete. 

Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) has overseen the demolition of the building on the summit of Mataruahou (Hospital Hill) in Napier. 

LINZ Leader Project Delivery Matt Bradley says the team was incredibly pleased so much high-value timber was able to be recycled and reused. 

“Our contractors were able to salvage rimu joists and rafters, matai flooring and totara decking as well as doors and skirtings. 

“Contractors salvaged the wood by hand to prevent damage, and we estimate we were able to recover 90 percent of the reuseable timber making up the building.

“Where we can, we look to recycle as much material as possible from demolitions we manage. It would have been a shame for such beautiful native timber to be lost and it’s great it will find a new life.”

In addition to the native timber, 200 tonnes of concrete, from the foundation of the building, was also recycled. 

LINZ also sent 6,000 tonnes of concrete and metal to be recycled during its demolition of the neighbouring Hinepare Nurses’ Home in 2023.  

Both buildings were part of the former Napier Hospital complex which closed in 1997. 

As the nurses’ home and hostel were no longer required by the Crown, they entered the Treaty Settlements Landbank, managed by LINZ, to potentially be used as cultural or commercial redress in a settlement.

With demolition complete, the properties will be offered to Mana Ahuriri Trust to purchase as part of its Treaty Settlement.