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Explore Te Kete Tuhinga, our new Library

Nau mai, haere mai! Welcome to Te Kete Tuhinga, our new library inside Te Whare Whakatere.

The new library is over twice as large as our old building! It includes community meeting spaces, a performance space, maker space, learning lab and av studio.

We are so excited to share it with you, we hope to see you soon!

There's never been a better time to join!

Access a vast world of books, classes, digital resources and much more. Library membership is completely free for residents and ratepayers in the Ashburton District.

Library Tours
On Request

Staff are available to take small groups on a tour of the new library. Please contact our team to make a booking.

Scavenger Hunt
Monday 22 January – Friday 1 March

Discover the new library by taking part in a scavenger hunt. Grab a form from our library team and start exploring!

Kids & Teens

There's plenty of places for young people to read, learn and play - from the children's library inside the historic Pioneer Hall to the puzzle and Lego stations.

Get creative in our Maker Space or AV Studio or enjoy some gaming with the Playstation 5, Nintendo Switch, VR Station or the regular gaming sessions in the Learning Lab.

AV Studio

The AV Studio provides members with a professional space for audio recording and video production.

Create and edit your own music, voice overs, podcasts, and videos. Learn the ropes from our recording expert or book the space to use in your own time.

Learning Lab

The Learning Lab is equipped with high-end computers and provides a place to learn new digital skills including
Microsoft Office, 3D modelling, graphic design, coding and more.

Each computer is equipped with headsets, controllers and a selection of popular games for our all-ages gaming sessions.

Maker Space

The Maker Space is  filled with great equipment ready to bring your creative visions to life. There’s no fee to use the equipment, however charges will apply for any materials you use.

Equipment includes a vinyl printer and cutter, laser cutter, craft cutter, standard and heavy-duty sewing machines and an overlocker.

Opening Hours

Ashburton Library is now located at 2 Baring Square East inside Te Whare Whakatere.

Monday 8.30am-6pm
Tuesday – Thursday 8.30am-8pm
Friday 8.30am-6pm
Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm