The Central Hawke’s Bay Museum Committee is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) for a unique opportunity to activate the courtyard space adjacent to the Central Hawke’s Bay Museum. This initiative aligns with the strategic vision outlined in the Waipawa Town Centre Plan, which emphasizes creating a vibrant, people-friendly environment that celebrates the town’s unique identity. By contributing to this vision, participants will help bring the CHBDC adopted Town Centre Plan for Waipawa to life.

Why This Matters: State Highway 2 serves as a vital regional connector, and the Waipawa Town Centre Plan envisions leveraging this asset to enhance the town's appeal. The plan proposes slowing traffic speeds and transitioning parking areas to create a greener, more inviting main street that encourages visitors to stop, shop, and enjoy the uniquely Waipawa experience.

The Vision: Transform the Museum Courtyard into a multifunctional space that serves as a space for community engagement, pop-up markets, events, and a space where history and contemporary community life intersect. The activation will help to make the courtyard a central point in the town's social and cultural landscape.

The Opportunity:

• The courtyard offers a blank canvas for creative and sustainable activation ideas.
• Operators will have the chance to contribute to the town's economic and social vitality.
• Proposals should align with Waipawa's 'old town' vibe, respecting the historical context while introducing innovative concepts.

Location
The activation space aligns with a redevelopment of the courtyard which is:
• Approximately 150 square metres,
• The space features a historic tree that will remain.
• Access to toilets at the Museum during opening hours.

Application Details
• Licence to Occupy Details
• The activation will be documented using standard tenancy documents – a Licence to Occupy agreement.
• The final terms of the Licence will be detailed in consultaiton with CHBDC as the Museum leases the property from Council.
• Proposals will be evaluated against expected market rental.

If you are interested in applying to activate the CHB Museum Forecourt please email chbmuseum@xtra.co.nz for an Application Form.