One part of the building that houses the cafeteria and kitchen on Hutt Hospital’s campus has been issued with an Earthquake Prone Building notice. However, the building continues to be safe for use.

A Detailed Seismic Assessment has rated the building less than 34% of the New Building Standard (importance level 2) and it is now classified as earthquake-prone by Hutt City Council, which allows a 15-year period for any necessary strengthening or demolition work. No parts of the primary building structure are rated below 34% NBS; the rating is due to non-structural elements.

Health New Zealand is considering options to strengthen the structure. Staff have been notified of the seismic issues, which were noted as part of Health New Zealand working through a programme of seismic assessments across the country over the last 18 months.

The safety of our staff remains our highest priority. The likelihood of an earthquake severe enough to cause failure in the building is very low, and continued occupancy is considered appropriate for the time being. We are working closely with experts to assess options for strengthening the building.

The building is not deemed dangerous under the Building Act 2004, nor is it at imminent risk of failure in a moderate earthquake.

Health New Zealand has carefully assessed the risk of continued occupation and based on the evidence and agrees that the building can remain occupied while future plans are developed.