Hillside redevelopment project update

This is a project update on the Southern Heritage Trust and Takutai Trust's initiative to save and refurbish a historic building at KiwiRail’s Hillside Workshops.

The two-storey former manager’s office at the Hillside Railway Workshop, dating from the 1920s, was originally scheduled for demolition as part of KiwiRail's Hillside redevelopment. In 2022, concerns were raised when it became clear that the building, despite its heritage value, was considered surplus to requirements. Following sustained advocacy and a pivotal site visit in early 2023, KiwiRail agreed to pause demolition just days before it was due to begin.

With the involvement of Takutai Trust, led by Peter and Mary Wells, the project gained the certainty needed to proceed. KiwiRail subsequently sold the building to the Southern Heritage Trust for $1, recognising its potential value to the community.

The landmark building will remain on its Hillside Road site and is being refurbished for community and charitable use, including offices, meeting spaces, and a small exhibition honouring the railway workers and families who shaped Hillside’s history. Construction is now underway, turning a near-loss into a lasting community asset.

In November, Peter and Mary from the Takutai Trust visited Dunedin to see the project firsthand. They met with the project team, toured the site with the manager, foreman, and quantity surveyor, and reviewed progress. They also saw plans for structural repairs and refurbishment, and were presented with a small memento in recognition of their support. The visit provided an opportunity to celebrate the project’s achievements and discuss next steps with the team.