Five construction companies have been invited to lodge formal tenders for the redevelopment of the Whakatane Museum and Research Centre.

Eight companies indicated a strong interest in tendering for the museum project, all of which were assessed on the basis of each applicant's experience of projects of a similar scale and technical complexity.

Factors such as track record, staff and technical resources, management, health and safety systems, and average labour rates were also accounted for.

Two local contracting companies submitted registrations of interest, but were not selected to take part in the tender process.

Project governance group chairman John Pullar says the redevelopment is an important project, because the museum houses a collection of unique cultural importance.

'We need to ensure the treasures from the past are looked after appropriately, are accessible to the community, and are preserved to inspire the interest and curiosity of future generations,” he says.

'The facility will also become a Research and Educational Centre which will cater for a wide range of activities. It is a significant investment for our community and the outcome will be something the district can be proud of.”

Tenders for the construction contract are expected to open on March 21 and close on April 21. A decision on a preferred contractor will be made in May, with on-site works expected to begin in June and be completed by mid-2018.

In the meantime, the museum is focusing on securing additional external funding for the $5.07 million project; initiating community engagement and fundraising activities; and preparing the Museum Collection for temporary relocation while the construction work proceeds.