The current Kaiapoi i-SITE, operated by ENC, closed on 3 July 2026, with Waimakariri District Council and Waimakariri Libraries now working together to transition the service to the library.

While the full service is expected to resume after 31 August, an interim service is in place already to ensure visitors and residents can continue to access tourism and local information.

Waimakariri Libraries Manager Luke Sole said, "Libraries are already popular destinations with tourists and there’s a natural fit between what libraries do and the role i-SITE plays in the community.”

"Across New Zealand, libraries and i-SITE services often work successfully alongside each other. This gives us an opportunity to provide visitor information from a welcoming, accessible community hub."

Library staff are working closely with ENC Chief Executive Heather to manage the transition. A new role is also being created within the libraries team to help lead the service and support its future development.

As part of the move, tourism brochures and selected i-SITE equipment will be relocated to Kaiapoi Library on 8 July.

A dedicated brochure display area will be installed near the main service desk, making it easy for visitors to access information about local attractions, accommodation and activities.

To accommodate the new service, several changes will be made within the library, including adjustments around the sign-up desk area, relocation of the Dementia Friendly Suitcases, installation of a new brochure stand and repositioning of existing displays. Metro brochures will also be moved to the new display area.

Clear signage will be installed to advise visitors that a full i-SITE service is not currently operating.

The move brings visitor information services into the heart of Kaiapoi’s civic centre, creating a convenient location where both residents and visitors can access local knowledge, digital assistance and community services under one roof.