Massey’s Pukeahu campus accessibility compromised for two days

The front entrance to the Pyramid on Massey’s Pukeahu campus has been blocked off after renovations, increasing the difficulty of access for students. 

Adding to the recent accessibility woes, the elevator in the student lounge was out of service for two days. A Massey spokesperson says there were plans to get the elevator running again as soon as possible, but a shortage of technicians available at the lift management companies delayed the process. “Accessibility is a priority for campus facilities management, and feedback on how this can be approved is always appreciated.” 

For students with disabilities needing to access the Pyramid or the library, the combination of both obstructions frustrated many. “I couldn’t go through the main entrance due to the construction, but the other main entrances of the building, through entrance B or C, all involve stairs or a lift to access the lower ground floor where the library is. With the lift out of action at the same time, it just felt like a bit of a slap in the face,” one student told Massive. 

A Massey spokesperson says the front entrance route has been blocked to allow for refurbishment, weather-tightness and seismic strengthening to Block 5. 

“Contractors have been working with affected staff to decant them elsewhere while the works are ongoing, but we acknowledge that the work has been disruptive to staff and students,” they said. 

Students can email the Operations Service Desk with any queries or concerns at OperationsServiceDesk-Wellington@massey.ac.nz