Building Act Changes & Heritage: Hon. Chris Penk and Expert Panel
Hear from Minister Chris Penk and experts on how new earthquake-prone building reforms impact Aotearoa's heritage.
Minister for Building and Construction Hon Chris Penk returns to share the latest updates on the Government’s overhaul of the earthquake-prone building system; including the removal of NBS ratings, reduced compliance costs, and a sharper focus on high-risk structures in high-earthquake-risk regions. The reforms have major implications for heritage buildings across Wellington and Aotearoa. Following the Minister’s address, an expert panel featuring Ian Cassels (The Wellington Company), Dr Jamie Jacobs (Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga), Iona Pannett (former Wellington City Councillor), and Dr Richard Sharpe (earthquake engineer) will discuss the new approach, challenges, and opportunities for preserving our historic buildings. Guests will be offered a drink on arrival. Canapes will be available, and further drinks can be purchased. Please arrive before 5pm to enable the event to start at 5pm. All proceeds support the Wellington Heritage Festival and our ongoing community events. If you wish to donate to support our kaupapa, you can do so here. Please pay $30 online, with your name in the Reference and Buildings Act event, to: Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga 030502- 0939456-00
Health & Safety
The Wellesley hotel has recently been identified as a potential earthquake risk, before the law changes were announced, but remains fully operational while plans are developed for strengthening. Safety procedures will be explained at the talks.
Regions
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Event times
5-7pm Tue 21 Oct
Booking required
Cost: $30
Contact David Watt (dwatt@heritage.org.nz / 027 2466 339) by 17 October 2025 to book.