A century’s worth of stories whispered from these weathered bricks. This is the Former Pumphouse in Auckland. It stands proudly on the shores of Lake Pupuke a testament to time and transformation.
Originally built in 1906 this wasn’t just any building. It was a vital water pumping station. Designed by H Metcalfe and built by Mays and Gordon it pumped precious water from the lake to quench the thirst of Devonport Takapuna Birkenhead and Northcote. Powerful machinery from J Chambers and Son fueled this essential service. The water was sourced directly from Lake Pupuke. This system continued until 1941. As Auckland grew the lake’s supply couldn’t keep up. Water quality suffered. The city needed a new solution.
The Former Pumphouse was decommissioned. For decades it fell into disrepair. Demolition was even considered in the late 1960s. But a group of passionate artists intervened. They envisioned a new purpose. They formed the North Shore Theatre and Arts Trust. Their dream was to transform the decaying building. They tirelessly raised money. Architect Harry Turbott meticulously planned the restoration and conversion into a community theatre and gallery.
The first performance graced the stage of the PumpHouse Theatre in 1977. The building though renovated kept much of its original structure. The 1905 bricks and mortar held it together for many years. However a 2010 engineer’s report revealed serious structural issues. The leaning chimney required urgent seismic strengthening.
The Former Pumphouse closed temporarily for this essential work. It reopened later in 2010. Even after the Christchurch earthquakes further scrutiny followed. In 2014 the roof was completely replaced with a new corrugated iron roof. This thoughtful restoration respected the building’s heritage. New structural steel inside provided support tying the rafters and bottom chords together.
Today the Former Pumphouse stands as a symbol of community spirit resilience and artistic vision. It’s a place where history and creativity intertwine. A once vital water pumping station now serves as a thriving performing arts center. Its walls bear witness to countless performances laughter and artistic expression. From humble beginnings to its current glory the Former Pumphouse continues to inspire. The legacy of those who saved it lives on. It’s a story of preservation passion and the power of art.