Carillon Pukeahu National War Memorial

Maycroft is currently carrying out seismic strengthening work to the Pukeahu National War Memorial Carillon Bell Tower. The iconic Carillon Bell Tower is the centrepiece of Pukeahu National War Memorial Park – a place of remembrance for all New Zealanders. Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage is kaitiaki of Pukeahu and also of the Carillon Bell Tower.

The fifty-metre high Art Deco memorial is home to the Hall of Memories, the Carillon Bell Tower and the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.  It is registered by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga as a Category I Historic Building. It was dedicated in 1932 on Anzac Day in commemoration of the First World War. It also officially remembers the brave New Zealanders who gave their lives in the South African War, World War II and times of conflict in Korea, Malaysia and Vietnam.

The Carillon Bell Tower is a musical instrument. It is the third largest carillon by weight in the world and the only carillon in New Zealand. The cast bronze bells range from 13 kilograms to 12.5 tonnes each, with a total weight of 70.5tonnes. There are 74 bells spanning six octaves inscribed with the names of whom they are dedicated.

To future proof this national treasure the scope of work currently being carried out includes asbestos removal, structural steel seismic strengthening of the tower, bell frame remediation works, instrument refurbishment, stone remediation works, asphalt roofing work, and new drainage; at all times remaining sympathetic to the heritage aspects of the building and building fabric.

The Early Contractor Involvement procurement strategy has given us the opportunity to fully understand this Category 1 Heritage listed Carillon Bell Tower in advance, enabling us to work through challenges with the design team, with particular regard to the new structural steel elements, Fluid Viscous Dampers and existing bell frame coatings. It also enables us to engage with the key stakeholder, Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage to ensure our programming and construction approach delivers the best solutions.

Works have been meticulously planned to minimise disruption and keep the public safe and to also ensure ceremonies can continue to be performed when necessary.

We’re delighted to be working on the restoration of this important part of New Zealand’s history. The restoration works will safe guard the National War Memorial for future generations of New Zealander’s.