Imagine a beloved historic landmark, shuttered for years due to safety concerns, suddenly given a glimmer of hope for revival. That's the situation facing Rotorua's iconic Blue Baths, thanks to a bold overhaul of New Zealand's earthquake-prone building laws. But here's where it gets controversial: could these changes prioritize affordability over stringent safety standards, potentially putting historic gems like the Blue Baths back in the spotlight, but at what risk? And this is the part most people miss: the delicate balance between preserving heritage and ensuring public safety.
Earlier this month, the New Zealand government unveiled sweeping reforms to its earthquake-prone building regulations, a move that could see 55 percent of structures removed from the national at-risk register. These changes, sparked by the devastating Canterbury earthquakes, aim to shift focus from a one-size-fits-all approach to a more nuanced system. Instead of relying solely on the New Building Standard (NBS) rating, the new rules would assess buildings based on their construction materials, proximity to public spaces, and neighboring properties. For instance, concrete buildings three stories or taller will undergo rigorous checks using updated methods.
Here’s the kicker: Rotorua, nestled in a medium-risk seismic zone, has 80 buildings on the at-risk list, including the Blue Baths and the Rotorua Museum. The museum, closed since 2016 after the Kaikōura earthquake, is already slated for a $73.55 million restoration, set to reopen in 2027. But the Blue Baths, shuttered in 2021 with a mere 15 percent NBS rating, has been in limbo—until now. Mayor Tania Tapsell believes the reforms could be a game-changer, potentially reopening the doors to this historic site. She’s even requested a meeting with Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk to discuss how these changes could prioritize the Blue Baths’ revival.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. While the Rotorua Lakes Council is optimistic, they’re cautious, noting that the proposal is still under consultation. They’re eager for clarity on how the new rules will impact their buildings and costs. Meanwhile, private entities like the city centre Pak'nSave, also on the at-risk list, are monitoring the situation closely. Though they’ve already strengthened their structure beyond current requirements, they’re unsure if the changes will affect their operations.
Here’s where the debate heats up: Should historic buildings like the Blue Baths be held to the same safety standards as modern structures? Or should we bend the rules to preserve our cultural heritage, even if it means accepting slightly higher risks? Tapsell emphasizes the need for a balance—ensuring safety while making restoration affordable. But is that balance achievable, or are we compromising one for the other?
The proposed reforms are part of the Building (Earthquake-Prone Building System Reform) Amendment Bill, expected to become law early next year. Until then, Rotorua waits with bated breath, hoping these changes will breathe new life into its cherished landmarks. But the question remains: at what cost?
What do you think? Should safety always trump heritage, or is there room for compromise? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that could shape the future of our historic treasures.
