People wanting to see the inside of Tauranga City Council’s new administration building will have a chance on with a guided tour on Monday, June 23.

The mayor, councillors and Tauranga City Council staff moved into the building at 90 Devonport Rd over April and May, after a blessing by mana whenua was held at the site on April 2.

Mayor Mahé Drysdale said there’s been keen interest in the building since construction began, so this was an opportunity for people to see first-hand what’s inside.

“With Tauranga City Council occupying the building for the next 15 years at least, it was important to me and the councillors that people had the opportunity to be part of the official opening and tour the building if they wish.”

It is the first time the staff would be under the same roof since 2014, when black mould was discovered in the now-demolished Willow St civic administration building.

The lease has an annual rent of $6,129,511 plus $313,352 for 65 car parks.

The council is leasing the building from Willis Bond, having sold the property developers the land in 2021 for $8.5 million.

“Tauranga City Council’s new leased office space reflects both our aspirations as a modern city and our deep connection to place, people and culture, so we’re looking forward to welcoming the community into the new space in the city centre,” said Drysdale.

Following a 15-minute formal ceremony featuring a mayoral address and plaque unveiling, registered attendees will take part in guided tours of the building, led by councillors.

Guided tours will include visiting the council chambers, staff cafeteria and the contact centre.

Visitors will also be able to meet the mayor in his office.

To manage health and safety, there is limited capacity for the opening and guided tours, so people will need to register for both the opening and a tour.

Drysdale says if there is high demand for the guided tours, council will look to hold additional tours in the future.

Event information for opening and guided tours of Tauranga City Council’s new administration building:

- 3pm – formal opening ceremony at 90 Devonport Rd. Registrations are essential.

- 3.30pm-5pm – guided tours to take place every 10 minutes. Tours are by pre-registration only and are expected to take about 20 minutes.

Click here to book your place and select a preferred tour time.

Registrations will close at 10am on Monday, June 23, or when capacity is reached.