this post was submitted on 11 Apr 2024
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Napier's 162yo prison to close to tourists (www.rnz.co.nz)
submitted 7 months ago by Dave to c/newzealand
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Napier's former prison is closing due to safety concerns, leaving the man who runs tours through the site unhappy he will be locked out.

The 162-year-old prison, New Zealand's oldest jail, has become a popular attraction since Toro Waaka began leasing the Bluff Hill property more than two decades ago.

He first opened a backpackers' lodge, which has since closed, before beginning the popular tours. They attract more than 30,000 people a year.

Toitū Te Whenua Land Information NZ, which manages the Crown landbanked site, told Waaka last month his lease was up.

Land Information said the site was an earthquake risk and retaining walls needed an upgrade.

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[–] Dave 2 points 7 months ago

This is a shame, I've done a tour there (self guided audio tour) and it was really interesting.

I also did an escape room there as well, which was good fun!