Carillon, Pukeahu National War Memorial

The Carillon Bell Tower is the centrepiece of Pukeahu National War Memorial Park and a Category 1 historic building. The fifty metre Art Deco memorial holds the Hall of Memories and the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, and was dedicated on Anzac Day in 1932. Seismic strengthening will secure it for future generations.

The tower is also a musical instrument. Its 74 cast bronze bells span six octaves and range from 13 kilograms to 12.5 tonnes, together weighing 70.5 tonnes, making it the third largest carillon in the world by weight and the only one in New Zealand.

Work covers asbestos removal, structural steel seismic strengthening, bell frame remediation, instrument refurbishment, stone remediation, asphalt roofing and new drainage, all handled sympathetically to the heritage fabric. Early contractor involvement allowed the team to work through the new steel elements, fluid viscous dampers and existing bell frame coatings with the design team ahead of construction. Works are planned to keep the public safe and allow ceremonies to continue.