It’s on in our city centre!

Tauranga city centre is evolving into a vibrant hub of creativity and learning, and the upcoming Te Manawataki o Te Papa Library and Community Hub is at the heart of this transformation.

Among the standout features is the Creation Station - a hands-on, tech-powered space designed to ignite curiosity and foster innovation that has just been given a generous boost thanks to a $39,348 grant from Pub Charity Limited.

From laser cutting and 3D printing to vinyl design and sublimation printing, the Creation Station will offer a treasure trove of creative tools for people of all ages to explore, experiment, and bring their ideas to life.

Libraries & Community Hubs Manager, Joanna Thomas says the new space is about more than just technology - it’s about unlocking potential.

“Te Manawataki o Te Papa Library and Community Hub is a gateway for everyone to participate in learning, creativity, and our Tauranga stories. Amongst the books and media are special community spaces. As well as the Creation Station, the Imagination Station is a hub for storytelling and performances,” says Joanna.

“What I see for the future is children who are part of a story reading in the hub gaining confidence to be on the stage at Baycourt, or by trying out technology they can be inspired to create a product at Tinkd Makerspace or compete with STEM-ED at World Robotics. The community hub will cater to all ages -  bring your imagination, your curiosity, we’ve got you covered.”

Pub Charity Limited’s funding will enable the purchase of key technology and equipment to bring the Creation Station to life. 

We are proud to support the Creation Station at Te Manawataki o Te Papa Library and Community Hub," says Pub Charity Limited Managing Director, Martin Cheer.

This space will give tamariki, rangatahi and the wider community access to technology and creative tools rarely available elsewhere. Our grant will fund a laser cutter, vinyl printer/cutter, three 3D printers and a vacuform machine - bringing exciting opportunities for imagination, skill development and future innovation for years to come.”

The Creation Station is just one part of a broader vision to make the new Library and Community Hub a place where learning, creativity, and community come together. It’s a space where our city's future innovators, storytellers, and makers will find inspiration and support.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to opening day in late 2026.