The Grey Lynn community has rallied behind a much-loved local hospitality icon, following the announcement that The Gypsy Tea Room was to close after 24 years.
Sparking outrage among locals, the Gypsy Tea Room is set to be transformed into the new offices for Barfoot & Thompson. The realtor bought the building, located along Richmond Road, back in 2021, and has been in negotiations with the bar’s owners.
It was hoped that the Gypsy Tea Room would be able to secure a spot in the redeveloped building; however, this was not to be.
Barfoot & Thompson said that another placement in the building was offered to the bar’s owners, but this offer was declined and is no longer available.
A local petition to stop the move collected more than 3000 signatures, and a local meeting this past week saw more than 200 residents turn up to show their support. Among those in attendance was acclaimed musician and former George FM DJ Peter Urlich, who has been a staunch supporter of the bar staying where it is.
“The community is confused and upset that something that makes our neighbourhood so great is being forced to move,” Urlich said on social media.
Fellow residents also voiced their frustration on social media.
“Banks and real estate agencies destroy communities. We don’t need several of these in an area. We need a place for the community to meet and get to know each other,” another added.
“Seeking to close down Gypsy Tea Room shows a fundamental lack of understanding of the community and neighbourhood. How can a real estate company hope to gain listings and sell in this neighbourhood if they clearly don’t understand what amenities make it special?”
Some residents have gone as far to say that if Barfoot & Thompson proceed with this move, they will not be selling their house with any of their agents.
Barfoot & Thompson said they explained that while they did not attend the meeting, it was not a reflection of the importance it places on community views, but rather because its position and plans have already been communicated at length with the tenant.
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