Turangi Library
Kia ora from Turangi Public Library
Te Whare Pūtea o Turangi
History of the Library
Turangi’s first library opened in 1966. The building was formerly used by the post office before the Tongariro Power Development Scheme started. A new building for the Turangi Public Library was officially opened on 14 August 1971 by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Sir Roy Jack. An extension incorporating a local studies collection and study room was added in 1989 to provide a permanent depository for the historic records covering the Turangi area at the southern end of Lake Taupo. The Turangi District Historical Society donated its archival collection of papers, plans, photographs and maps as well as tape recordings from various people with local knowledge.
By 2006 concept plans for a newly upgraded, refurbished library were being discussed. On 30th June, 2008 the new Turangi Library was officially opened with a gathering which included the Hon. Mark Burton, Mayor Rick Cooper, representatives of Ngati Turangitukua the local hapu, and Ngati Tuwharetoa, Taupo District Councillors and Turangi Tongariro Community Board Members.
The new library has a significantly bigger library space, a study area, a separate children’s area and teen’s area and an increase in the number of public access computers.
About Turangi
The town of Turangi near the head of Lake Taupo alongside the Tongariro River takes its name from the Maori leader Turangitukua. After many battles Turangitukua and his followers occupied land near the Tongariro River. His name was adopted as the name of the local sub-tribe or hapu of Ngati Tuwharetoa people in the delta region of the Tongariro River. It was not until the late 19th early 20th centuries that the first Europeans reached the centre of the North Island.
By the 1950’s Turangi was a sleepy fishing hamlet. The construction of Turangi as a new hydro town took place in the 1960’s with the Tongariro Power Development.The power scheme was completed in 1985. By the late 1990’s Turangi had entered a new era as a tourism and service centre for the southern end of Lake Taupo.
The Turangi Library serves the Turangi Tongariro areas in the Lake Taupo district. This includes several small settlements close by including Kuratau, Omori. Pukawa, Whareroa, Tokaanu, Waihi and villages from Motuoapa to Hatepe along State Highway 1.
Did you know....
A unique feature of the library is the cultural etchings upon the main windows designed by Ngati Tuwharetoa artist, Te Maari Gardiner, The design represents the four Warrior Mountains , Putuaki, Tauhara, Tongariro and Pihanga, who stood in the heart of Te Ika-a-Maui.
Read The Legend of the four warrior mountains.
For Opening hours and contact Details
Want more information on Taupo District Libraries, take a look at our District Library page.
About Taupo District Libraries