Leys Institute strengthening work starts in Ponsonby, finish expected mid-2028

By the Explore Auckland news desk · Published Thursday 12 November 2026

Work to strengthen and restore the heritage Leys Institute library and gymnasium in Ponsonby began on Thursday 5 November, with completion expected in mid-2028.

Where

Leys Institute library and gymnasium, Ponsonby

Finish

Expected mid-2028; both buildings stay closed until then

Library meanwhile

Leys Institute Little Library, 14 Jervois Road: Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 4pm, closed Sunday

Both buildings have been shut since December 2019, when they were assessed as earthquake-prone. They stay closed during construction, and library services carry on from the Leys Institute Little Library at 14 Jervois Road, open weekdays 9am to 6pm and Saturdays 9am to 4pm.

More than strengthening

The Waitematā Local Board approved the project in 2023. Besides making the buildings safe in an earthquake, the plan brings back original heritage details, upgrades fire protection, wiring and other services, makes both buildings easier to get around, and joins the library and gym up so the space can be used for more kinds of library and community events. A passenger lift, solar panels, new furniture and a courtyard garden are also planned.

Who is paying

The money comes from Auckland Council’s Regional Seismic Fund and the Waitematā Local Board. The board’s share is helped by selling four properties it no longer needs for community use.

A century of history

The Leys family paid for the complex in the early 1900s, hoping to give Ponsonby a place for learning, culture and exercise in one spot. Both buildings now have heritage protection. Read the council’s announcement, and for more on the neighbourhood see our Ponsonby guide.

Explore Auckland news desk: news@exploreauckland.nz. Spotted something wrong? Tell us and we’ll correct it.