The new library, community centre and museum currently under construction in Sumner has a name – Matuku Takotako: Sumner Centre.
In a competition run from May–June 2016, Christchurch City Council received 175 valid suggestions for a name from the public. In consultation with the local rūnanga a panel sorted through the entries which ranged from environmental, historical, cultural and bilingual to functional names.
Five finalists were selected which were voted on by the public from 20 June – 3 July 2016 and after 200 votes two shortlisted names, Matuku Takotako: Sumner Centre and Tuawera: Sumner Centre, were leading.
“Matuku Takotako is the original Ngāi Tahu name for Sumner Beach,” says Carolyn Robertson, Christchurch City Council Head of Libraries and Information. “It’s a name we feel strongly reflects the community and enhances the local iwi identity, and that’s what was put to the Hagley–Ferrymead Community Board for a decision.
“The name Matuku Takotako also recalls a Polynesian tradition associated with Tawhaki, who is famed for having ascended to the heavens in the pursuit of knowledge, which is fitting as it reflects the nature and purpose of the building,” Ms Robertson says.
Matuku Takotako: Sumner Centre will incorporate a library, community centre and museum. The library, community office, display area and library courtyard will be situated on the ground floor with the rest of the community functions, hall, kitchen and museum space on the first floor.
Construction of the two-storey, 1300 square metre building on the corner of Wakefield Avenue and Nayland Street began in July and the building is expected to open mid-2017.
