Changes to Museum Operating Hours
Council currently operates the Hokitika Museum on a consistent schedule across both summer and winter periods.
Summer operating hours (October to March) are Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm, and Saturday, Sunday and
public holidays 10.00am to 4.00pm.
Winter operating hours (April to September) are Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm, and Saturday, Sunday and
public holidays 10.00am to 4.00pm.
This provides a seven-day service year-round, with consistent opening hours regardless of seasonal demand.
Option 1: Reduce operating hours to better align with seasonal visitor demand.
Under this option, operating hours would change as follows:
- Summer: Saturday, Sunday and public holidays
10.00am to 3.00pm - Winter: Saturday 10.00am to 3.00pm
- Winter: Closed Sunday and Monday
Weekday operating hours would remain unchanged.
This would reduce staffing and operating costs while maintaining access during peak periods. The estimated saving is $49,000, equating to an overall average decrease in rates of 0.18%.
Option 2: Further reduce operating hours to prioritise cost savings.
Under this option, operating hours would change as follows:
- Summer: Saturday, Sunday and public holidays
10.00am to 2.00pm - Winter: Saturday 10.00am to 2.00pm
- Winter: Closed Sunday and Monday
Weekday operating hours would remain unchanged.
This would reduce staffing and operating costs while maintaining access during peak periods. The estimated saving is $59,000, equating to an overall average decrease in rates of 0.21%.
Option 3: Council continues with the current operating hours.
This reflects the existing model, with the museum open seven days a week from 10.00am to 4.00pm year-round. There would be no change to operating costs and no overall change to rates.
Option 2 is the preferred option. This option improves operational efficiency, reduces costs, and delivers a modest reduction in rates while maintaining a consistent level of access during key visitor periods.
