Project

An 8km detour from State Highway One will take you to plenty of places in New Zealand, but if you head inland south of Timaru, you’ll not only come across Waimate, but it’s newest addition which is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Gary Rooney’s latest project has been a move to earthquake strengthen a historical building. With great food in a robust structure, The Waimate Cafe and Restaurant or “The Waimate” as fondly revered by Rooney opened its doors in the heart of the town to an exciting new chapter in December 2019.

Thompson Construction were delighted to be involved in such an eagerly awaited eatery for the town. Their involvement has included managing the building plans, structural design and fabrication along with installation of steelwork and concrete panels. Through retrofitting and earthquake strengthening with steel, the character and charm of the building has been retained.

“The Waimate” will be a great draw card for the district and will impress visitors with its enigmatic blend of the best of the old and revitalisation with the new. Features include a towering 6m arch window, cut into an existing brick wall and an impressive centre-piece staircase.