[October 4, 1938 – New Zealand Herald] Furnishing full facilities for the pursuit of modern research and experiment, the newly-established Plant Research Station at Mount Albert is expected to be in full operation by the middle of December. Although some of the scaffolding has yet to be removed, the administrative and laboratory building is structurally complete, and, as the fitting of the interior has been commenced, it is expected that a number of the rooms will be available for use in a few weeks’ time.
The construction of the building, which embodies the most modern features of scientific design, was commenced about five months ago on a central and commanding site on the Kerr-Taylor Estate, of which 16 acres were acquired by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. Compactness and utility are predominant features of the block, but beauty and symmetry of line remain unimpaired, and the structure is a handsome addition to the array of Government buildings in Auckland.
Shaping of Interior
Carpenters are now engaged on the shaping of the interior, and, although the work of preparing the 35 offices and laboratories represents a major task, it is anticipated that a number of rooms will be available for the research staff by the end of the month. By December it is considered that it will be possible to transfer the full staff to Mount Albert from Palmerston North, where many research workers are still engaged.
The top floor has been planned to contain numerous small service laboratories, where individual workers will pursue particular lines of study in relation to pests and diseases. A large library is also provided, together with a museum, for the storage of specimens for reference and the offices of the director, Dr. G. H. Cunningham, and the assistant director, each with a small laboratory attached. The photography department, an important feature of the research, and the entomological section will be located on the ground floor.
Cool Storage Chambers
Cool storage chambers will be fitted in the basement, which will also contain an air-conditioning plant. Air circulating through the building will be washed and conditioned and maintained at a constant relative temperature to assist the efficiency of the staff and to provide a uniform background for delicate experimental work. The humidity will also be regulated.
With the field experiments well advanced, the area on which the building stands now presents a well-cultivated appearance. Excellent progress is being made in the advancement of the programme of outdoor research.