1:35 pm today

Community works to restore historical miners’ hall

From Afternoons, 1:35 pm today

Rūnanga is a small town on the West Coast with a rich history, a large part of which revolves around Rūnanga Miners' Hall.

Originally constructed in 1908, ownership of the hall has now transferred to a local trust who are determined to restore it. 

Trust member Jo Hart speaks to Jesse about its history and importance today, as well as a new fundraising effort for the hall. 

The first Hall, c1909.

The first Hall, c1909. Photo: Hadcroft/Wooton Collection, in ‘Rūnanga Recalled’, by John Flood (1996).

The Rūnanga Hall in May 2024

The Rūnanga Hall in May 2024 Photo: Rūnanga Miners' Hall Trust

Fancy Dress Ball in the 2nd Hall, c.late 1930s

Fancy Dress Ball in the 2nd Hall, c.late 1930s Photo: Rūnanga Miners' Hall Trust

The second Rūnanga Hall, August 1937

The second Rūnanga Hall, August 1937 Photo: NZ Herald from Sir George Grey Collection, Auckland Libraries, 1370-634-02

Original artwork of Hall by RMH Trustee, Les Holmes

Original artwork of Hall by RMH Trustee, Les Holmes Photo: Les Holmes