We’re investigating structural concerns at the historic Napier Prison.
The prison was built in 1862 and operated as a prison for 131 years. It was decommissioned in 1993.
Originally a single building designed to hold 14 prisoners, new buildings were added over the years and the prominent boundary and retaining walls were built in the early 1900s.
The prison is an important site for the Napier community and is part of the wider history of New Zealand.
The buildings and walls at the prison are an earthquake risk and need strengthening.
Due to safety concerns and the need to allow site investigations to take place, the prison is currently closed to public access.
We are now investigating how much work is needed for the prison to be safe for the public to visit, and how much this is likely to cost. This investigative work is being done by specialist heritage and geotechnical engineers.
Reports
Reports we have commissioned on the prison are available to read here.