| 11 LT McGuinness Ltd - Wellington: Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui The iconic Te Matapihi Nikau palms return in the new design, with distinct colour palettes helping people navigate the space. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT CRAFTING PREMIUM METALWORK FOR TE MATAPIHI Alchemy Engineering & Design and LT McGuinness collaborate on the rebirth of Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui, Wellington’s Central Library. Alchemy Engineering & Design is proud to play a key role in the library’s transformation, delivering high-quality metal prefabrication solutions in partnership with LT McGuinness. Since its closure in March 2019 due to seismic risk, the landmark building has undergone a full modernisation and strengthening programme. The interior fit-out is now well underway ahead of the library’s reopening in March 2026. “We began work last June, once the interior was ready for measurement,” says Shawn Lai, owner of Alchemy Engineering & Design. “Our job was to prefabricate and install stainless steel handrails and balustrades inside the building and along the main stairway. As the fit-out advanced, we were also called in to assist with a range of cosmetic finishing touches.” Established in 1981, Alchemy operates from a specialist workshop in Ngauranga and employs a skilled local team serving the wider Wellington region. Despite tight deadlines, Shawn says his team remained positive and motivated throughout. “We’ve worked long hours, but the energy on site has been great - everyone recognises the significance of this project,” he says. “I used to study at the library while at Victoria University and later brought my son to the children’s area. Many Wellingtonians share special memories of this space, which makes being part of its restoration especially rewarding.” Alchemy’s relationship with LT McGuinness stretches back to 2021, when the company supplied balustrades and handrails for the Victoria Lane Apartments. Te Matapihi represents their latest successful collaboration built on trust, professionalism and shared values. “LT McGuinness has been outstanding to work with. We’re particularly grateful to Michael Paulin, Project Site Manager, whose communication and support made coordination seamless. The LT McGuinness team know we’ll deliver on our promises – if something’s needed quickly, we’ll try to make it happen, often within a week or two. That’s a rapid turnaround in metal fabrication, but we take pride in going the extra mile.” On site, Alchemy’s lead installers Thomas Augustine, Leng Shuai and Frankie Chen demonstrated meticulous craftmanship and quick problem-solving, with minimal defects identified during quality inspections of the completed balustrade work. Alchemy specialises in crafting bespoke, cost-effective solutions in aluminium, steel and iron, complemented by in-house painting services. Building on its Wellington legacy, the company has recently expanded north, opening a new branch and workshop in Auckland. “It has been a privilege to contribute to one of Wellington’s most treasured public buildings. We’re deeply thankful to LT McGuinness for their collaboration and trust – it has been a true team effort bringing Te Matapihi back to life.”
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=