Last updated June 2026
The Arapaki Manners Library was a temporary library and service centre on Manners Street in Wellington that operated from 2020 until its permanent closure in September 2024. It was established to maintain library and council services after the Central Library closed in March 2019 due to earthquake resilience concerns. The facility provided books, computers, Wi-Fi, and council services to central Wellington users during that period. Items borrowed from Arapaki can still be returned to any Wellington City Libraries branch. Library users transitioned to nearby branches such as Te Awe Library on Brandon Street, and the strengthened Central Library reopened to the public in March 2026.
Practical Information
| Status | Closed permanently |
| Former address | 12 Manners Street, Wellington |
| Opened | July 2020 |
| Closed | 27 September 2024 at 5pm |
| Reason for closure | Wellington City Council cost-saving measures in the 2024-2034 Long-term Plan |
| Nearest alternatives | Te Awe Library (Brandon Street); Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui Central Library (reopened March 2026) |
| Returns | Any Wellington City Libraries branch |
| Contact | 04 801 4040 or en*******@******vt.nz |
About Arapaki Manners Library
Arapaki Manners Library opened in July 2020 as a compact temporary facility co-located with a council service desk. It filled a gap in central Wellington services after the main Central Library closed in March 2019 following an engineering assessment that identified seismic risks. The branch offered standard library lending, public computers, free Wi-Fi, printing services, and some council transactions during its operation.
The library featured special collections including world languages materials, a Kurapae collection of high-demand titles, zines, DVDs, and comics. It operated Monday to Friday during daytime hours and served as a convenient stop for CBD workers and residents until the decision to close it as part of broader budget adjustments.
Collections from Arapaki were redistributed across the Wellington City Libraries network, with many items moved to the Johnsonville distribution hub (Te Pātaka) or larger branches. Most titles remained available for reservation and delivery through the shared catalogue.
Closure Details
The Wellington City Council announced the permanent closure of Arapaki in September 2024 following deliberations on the 2024-2034 Long-term Plan. The branch closed at 5pm on Friday 27 September 2024. Uncollected reserves were redirected to Te Awe Library by default, and users were advised to update their preferred branch in the online catalogue.
Library items on loan from Arapaki could be returned to any branch without incurring fines related to the closure. The council communicated the change through its website and other channels, incorporating community feedback received during the budget process.
Alternative Library Services
Following the closure, central Wellington library users were directed to Te Awe Library on Brandon Street, a short walk from the former Arapaki location. Te Awe provides public computers, free Wi-Fi, printing, photocopying, scanning, and bookable meeting rooms. Justice of the Peace services are available on select days, and Community Navigators assist with enquiries.
EFTPOS is accepted at Te Awe, though cash payments are not. Many council services and payments can be completed online via the Wellington City Council website. An after-hours return chute is available for borrowed items.
Reopened Central Library
Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui (the strengthened Central Library) reopened to the public on 14 March 2026 after base-isolation work and fit-out. It now offers full central library services, heritage collections, youth programmes, and a café. Opening hours are 9am–7pm Monday to Friday and 9.30am–5pm on weekends. This facility restores comprehensive central access that Arapaki temporarily supported.
What Visitors Often Say
Former users appreciated the convenient central location and friendly staff during the years it operated as a stop-gap service.
Many noted the compact size made it easy for quick visits but mentioned limited weekend hours compared with larger branches.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council: Official announcement and closure details for Arapaki Library and Service Centre.
Wellington City Council: Project history and reopening information for Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui Central Library.
Wellington City Libraries: Current branch locations, hours, catalogue, and online services.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Arapaki Manners Library close?
It closed permanently at 5pm on 27 September 2024.
Why was the library closed?
The closure formed part of cost-saving decisions in the Wellington City Council 2024-2034 Long-term Plan.
Where can I return items borrowed from Arapaki?
Items can be returned to any Wellington City Libraries branch.
What is the nearest alternative branch?
Te Awe Library on Brandon Street is the closest central option; the reopened Central Library is also available.
Has the Central Library reopened?
Yes, Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui reopened to the public on 14 March 2026.
How do I update my library account preferences?
Log into the Wellington City Libraries online catalogue to change your preferred branch and manage reserves.
Are digital resources still available?
Yes, eBooks, audiobooks and other online services remain accessible 24/7 with a library card.
Who can I contact for help?
Call 04 801 4040 or email en*******@******vt.nz for assistance with accounts or services.
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