Source: Porirua City Council
A new commemorative park in Titahi Bay was officially opened on Saturday.
The park, in the middle of the Whitehouse Rd shops, replaces the Marines Hall, which was demolished in 2021 after it was closed down in 2012.
Designed by Boffa Miskell and constructed by Higgins, the new community space balances community aspirations alongside a partnership with mana whenua Ngāti Toa – the design intention was to create a civic area, reflecting what was previously there and making potential for future use.
A new toilet block also went in last year and, with the library nearby, it creates new promise for community use.
Features include illuminated bench seats, stage and lighting, while the timber clad portals mirror the outline of the former hall, used as a movie theatre and to put on productions since the 1940s.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says it is exciting to see the park opened in time for the upcoming Titahi Bay Christmas Fair, and hopes it will be a gathering place and activation point for events, recreation and relaxation.
“It’s taken some time to get here, but what a space we have now,” she says.
“It’s new and light and bright and inviting for residents and visitors. I’m keenly aware of the history of this place, with the Marines and their hall part of the suburb’s furniture for some time, but it’s been important to look forward and realise the potential of this land.
“In our city we’re blessed with fantastic spaces that help make Porirua such a liveable city. Titahi Bay has been lacking a centre for some time, and I hope that we have filled that vacancy with this beautiful commemorative park.”
