Nikau Cafe to close in Wellington’s Civic Square, construction disruption blamed
Nikau Cafe is on the hunt for new premises after construction disruption in Wellington's Civic Square became too much. Photo / Mark Mitchell
After operating for more than 25 years, Nikau Cafe will close its doors in the heart of Wellington’s Te Ngākau Civic Square.
A search for a new location is ongoing but the cafe’s operators are hopeful it will make a return.
The square is undergoing major redevelopment, including seismic strengthening of the Central Library and Town Hall and demolition of the Civic Administration Building.
Nikau Cafe posted on social media: “The ongoing construction in Civic Square and related challenges have made it increasingly difficult for us to operate in our usual way.
“In addition, the building we occupy, shared with the City Gallery, is scheduled to close in February 2025 for essential earthquake strengthening.”
The business is now on the hunt for a new location “befitting Nikau Cafe’s iconic status”.
None of the sites considered to date have met requirements, the social media post said.
“Please know that our search is ongoing, and we remain hopeful that Nikau Cafe will find a new home to continue serving Wellingtonians as the beloved icon it has become.”
The cafe team fully intended to reopen once suitable premises were secured.
“For decades, Nikau Cafe has been a place of connection, warmth, and good food in Wellington’s CBD. We couldn’t have achieved this without you, our loyal customers, whose visits have shaped Nikau into the beloved space it is today.
“Thank you for being part of our journey. We hope that soon we can welcome you back in a new capacity. Until then, please know how grateful we are for your support and the memories we’ve created together.”
City Gallery, which houses Nikau Cafe, had to reduce its opening hours late last year before announcing it would be leaving the square for two years because of “disruptive construction work temporarily forcing it out of its iconic building”.
In May, Rhys Kaan, owner of cafe and gaming store Caffeinated Dragon Games, at 70 Victoria St, directly opposite the library, said he was considering legal action against Wellington City Council.
He said dust and fumes from the site were affecting the health of his staff, who suffered headaches, stomach issues and anxiety attacks. He was concerned the council had not considered the impacts of the construction on nearby businesses.
Georgina Campbell is a Wellington-based reporter who has a particular interest in local government, transport, and seismic issues. She joined the Herald in 2019 after working as a broadcast journalist.