Special Award 2017

This award may be given at the discretion of the judges for a specific outstanding project or element of a project that they feel is worthy of recognition.
National Category Winner: Commercial

Project: Mangatawa Tari

Entrant

Form Building & Developments

Project Partners

First Principles Architects (Architect/Designer), Form Building & Developments (Construction Company), First Principles Architects (Architect/Designer)

Owned by

Mangatawa Papamoa Block Incorporated

This standalone office is the inspiring new hub of Mangatawa Papamoa Blocks Inc. The design concept and exterior form is imbued with the legend of Mangatawa, a mother whale who was turned to stone on Papamoa beach. The ridge that was created provides this building with views over 80% of the lands administered by the corporation.

Judges comments

The new administration building for Mangatawa Papamoa Blocks Incorporation takes its inspiration from a local legend – a baby whale and its parents became stranded in Tauranga harbour, and were turned to stone after drinking from a magic spring, and formed local hills. This legend drove a design in the shape of a whale tail, with a tall sweeping wall of glass facing the spectacular view across the Bay of Plenty. The project took the legend to heart, never allowing practical considerations to water down the concept. The result is a striking building which is a great source of pride to the community it serves.