The New Look Beachlands Log Cabin

Sunkist Bay at sunset view from Log Cabin car park

The Log Cabin as is looks now!!

The other buildings on the reserve were demolished last year.

The Beachlands Log Cabin re-piling project was completed about a year ago now, Like most public works the good work was all done on the outside and surprise surprise very little done on the inside. The area arround the Log Cabin was cleared of two dilapidated buildings making the space far more welcoming.

What was meant to be done:
1. Clean lichen moss etc off roof
2. Sand down, prepare and repaint all exterior, including barge boards. Remove rot in porch step at front.
3. Jack up building, replace rotting/deficient piles with new.
4. Remove chimney, install concrete pad and replace chimney onto it
5. Sand down and thoroughly prepare all interior surfaces and repaint.
6. Replace bench in kitchen with stainless steel, including new sink and taps
7. Incorporate stove into bench
8. Install new cupboards under bench
9. Windows may need easing and re-hanging following the leveling and repiling of the building

What was actually done:
1. Lichen moss etc cleaned off roof
2. Exterior wall water blasted and painted, including barge boards. Rot removed in porch step at front, and most of the bottom exterior logs.
3. Jack up building, replace rotting/deficient piles with new.
4. Chimney collapsed due to zero support when building was lifted see photo below, install concrete pad and replace chimney onto it
5. The windows were covered in perspex sheilds to prevent the ongoing vandalism of the smaller window pains.

The most important reason to celebrate is that the Manukau City Council did not demolish it.

News:

The Maraetai Beachlands Arts & Crafts Society Incorporated is now in discussion with council over a possible formal Tenancy Lease. The Society has been in an informal lease arrangement with Council since 1977.