People familiar with the property say the back-rooms and offices feature full-length mirrors and opulent fittings.

Photos on the website of listing agent Bayleys show chandeliers and leather lounge suites.

Salvation Army Northern Division Commander Major Stephen Jarvis confirmed the purchase of the buildings which has a rateable value of $4.9 million, but he would not disclose the purchase price.

Jarvis said the building will be stripped back to host a food bank, budget counselling, social work services and church services.

He said , "The Salvation Army does not intend to keep the above fittings or mirrors."

The Mt Wellington facility will be used for social work, employment and budgeting support, a foodbank and church services.

The purchase is being funded by the sale of the Army's Queen St property which Jarvis said doesn't have room for all those services.

He expects work to begin in the middle of the year, and hopes the centre will open towards the end of the year.

Source

• Radio New Zealand
• Stuff.co.nz
• Image: Stuff.co.nz