Refurbishment of Wachner Place’s historic clock is planned to begin today, when it will be temporarily dismantled to undergo major repair works.

The works will include a major overhaul and upgrade to the clock’s mechanism and structure and form part of the wider redevelopment of the Esk Street West Project including the development around the new Distinction Hotel.

Invercargill City Council Group Manager Infrastructure Erin Moogan said once repair works had been completed, the clock would be relocated closer to Dee Street and housed in a new tower, allowing it to become a more prominent feature of the area.

“The redevelopment of the Wachner Place – Esk Street West area and the subsequent renovation of the clock, aligns with the next phase in Council’s city streets project which aims to enhance the pride in the city, the area’s connectivity and aesthetic appeal.

“The relocation of the clock, slightly to the east by about 23 metres, helps to accommodate coach travel through the area to the new Distinction Hotel.”

The clock repair works are expected to take up to a year (dependent on what was found) and once complete, the clock would be moved into a new tower which would be in keeping with the current design of the CBD and Esk and Don streets.

“The Wachner Place clock has been in Invercargill for over 100 years and it’s only fitting that it receives a bit of tender love and care. Through the refurbishment process we will be aiming to retain as much of its original condition as possible,” Moogan said.

The cost of the clock repair work would be met by Council while construction of the new tower would be covered by Distinction Hotels.