Matuku Takotako - Sumner Centre

This state of the art community facility is brand new, but has a legacy dating back to 1883, when began as two cupboards of books in the primary school front porch.

After residing in a tiny building, then upstairs at Council offices, the library finally had it's own premises constructed in 1961. Extensions and many political moves saw the facility finally fully incorporated in the Christchurch City Libraries system in 1997.
Earthquakes damaged the loved modernist library building, but it wasn't pulled down until 2013, and Matuku Takotako was opened in 2017.

The concepts behind the design of the new building are very simple, reflecting the red ochre of Redcliffs, making efficient use of the triangular site, and to pay a little homage to street frontages of the past. This was achieved with the use of now popular red oxide panels and a sophisticated and welcoming entrance sheltered from (some of) the wind. Internal features and installations are a nod to local Iwi and cultural groups. An unexpected and triumphant use of Nayland Street side of the block as a casual courtyard for gatherings cements the commonsense and simplicity that defines Matuku Takotako as a community success. As well as library facilities, the centre includes a multi-use hall, and hosts courses and events.

A selection of high value artworks are owned by this library thanks to it's long century of independence and the generosity of the volunteers. One special piece is a wall hanging by Vivienne Mountfort named Sumner Vista. The rest of the collection can be viewed online here. One permanent exhibition is a fascinating collection of images of the contraversial Taylors Mistake Baches, the remainder of which are not very far away if you wish to see them for real.

NZPlaces would love to see your images of Matuku Takotako - until then, here is the Council's gallery.