The iconic Rotorua Trust building on Eruera Street is set for new owners, but its role will still be the same – serving the Rotorua community.
The building will transfer to its new owners, Collingwood Funeral Home, with the company taking possession on 14 May. The building was listed in January, with the sale going unconditional today.
Rotorua Trust Chairman, Stewart Edward, says the Trust received multiple offers for the 265m², refurbished 1930s villa.
“This building has been home to the Trust and Rotorua community for 20 years crafting its legacy within the community through the Trust’s work – touching the lives and supporting the people of Rotorua in multiple ways,” says Mr Edward.
“It’s a legacy the Trust wanted to continue, which was a key decision in accepting Collingwood Funeral Home’s offer as we see them treating the space with the same respect and aroha as we have for the past 20 years.”
Mr Edward says Collingwood Funeral Home has been proudly serving the people of Rotorua and the surrounding areas with dignity and sincerity since 2014.
“While it’s an end of an era for the Trust, we believe the community and family-focused nature of the service Collingwood Funeral Home provides is an appropriate fit for this warm and friendly space and it will continue the legacy this building has become known for – serving the people of Rotorua.”
Sale proceeds will be invested into the Trust’s investment portfolio, to continue delivering funding to the community through the Trust’s grants programme.
Rotorua Trust’s three-person operational team will relocate to facilities in the new Haupapa House office hub which is nearing completion.
Collingwood Funeral Home funeral director, Todd Gower, says the building’s era is in keeping with the trusted, professional care the business offers.
“The building has a range of light open areas which means we can enhance our services, by giving whānau and friends the space to gather, celebrate and farewell their loved ones.”
Mr Gower says the beautiful villa retains the warm, homely feel the current Collingwood premise on Pretoria Street is known for, with intimate spaces to mourn in a private and comforting setting.
“We’re proud to take on the guardianship of this building and thank the Trust for working closely with us to make this opportunity a reality.”