Hillside Building Saved: Former Staff Celebrate Its Future

A historic building at the Hillside workshops, which was on the verge of demolition, has been saved thanks to the efforts of the Southern Heritage Trust and a generous donation from Peter and Mary Wells of the Takutai Trust. The two-storey structure, believed to date back to the 1920s, was purchased for just $1 from KiwiRail and will now undergo refurbishment to preserve its legacy.

Former Staff Reunite to Share Memories

On Saturday, former payroll and accounts staff who worked in the building gathered on site to recount their experiences. Among those present was Stuart Penny, who worked at the Hillside workshops from 1960 to 1981. As a clerical cadet, he was responsible for managing the manual payroll for over 1,000 employees. Penny expressed his deep connection to the building, stating, “It was a great place to work and the staff were all brilliant here.” For him, the preservation of the building holds great significance.

Another attendee, Don Britt, a second-generation staff member, emphasized the rarity of such workshops in the country today. Britt makes it a point to visit the building every two years, highlighting its importance in the community and its unique place in New Zealand’s industrial history.

Future Plans for the Building

The refurbishment of the Hillside building is being carried out by the Dunedin firm Naylor Love, which originally constructed it. Plans for the building include converting the top floor into office space for the heritage trust, while the ground floor will be leased to two groups starting next year. This revitalization not only preserves the building’s historical significance but also ensures its continued use for future generations.

The decision to save the Hillside building has been met with enthusiasm from former staff, who appreciate the opportunity to be part of its ongoing story. Their memories, recorded during the reunion, will contribute to the building’s narrative, ensuring that its rich history is not forgotten.

As the community looks forward to the completion of the refurbishment, the Hillside workshops stand as a testament to New Zealand’s industrial heritage and the collective effort to preserve its legacy.