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Built Tourism and Leisure Project Award Results

H T M L Code
National Category Winner: Tourism & Leisure Project: Marlborough District Library and Art Gallery Entrant Robinson Construction Project Partners APL Property Limited (Client Representative), Brendan Blackmur Consulting (Quantity Surveyor), Davidson Group (Engineer to the Contract/Engineer's Representative), Holmes Consulting LP (Engineer), Robinson Construction (Construction Company), Warren & Mahoney (Architect/Designer) Owned By Marlborough District Council The Marlborough District Library and Art Gallery is a significant addition to the community’s cultural landscape, creating a vibrant hub for Marlborough residents. The standout design draws inspiration from Marlborough's natural environment, incorporating elements such as the undulating Wither Hills, the straight lines of the vineyards, and the gentle curves of the rivers. The project was executed with precision, from the accurate positioning of columns to the intricate installation of over a thousand purlins and a distinctive Décortech ceiling. Sustainability features including solar panels, aluminium sunscreens for temperature regulation, and high levels of wall and floor insulation, underscore the project's commitment to environmental responsibility. The project faced multiple logistical challenges, including a tight timeframe and a confined site. Moreover, the historic site required careful consideration of potential contamination issues and the possibility of uncovering artifacts during excavation. Judges comments The Marlborough District Library and Art Gallery is the perfect example of project components working together to result in a near-faultless facility. Robust procurement, design, and construction processes were integral to the project's success. The building’s first-floor ceiling stands out as an impressive architectural detail, featuring perforated plywood arranged across various raking planes. Despite many challenges and logistical complications, the collaborative approach and professionalism displayed by the Robinson Construction team, ensured that these issues were managed effectively.
Project: Kiwa Pools Entrant Apollo Projects Project Partners Apollo Projects (Construction Company/Project Manager), Architecture HDT (Architect/Designer), GHD (Engineer) Owned By Gisborne District Council The Kiwa Pools project included a 50-metre competition pool, leisure pool, learn-to-swim pool, and hydrotherapy pool. However its cultural significance and sustainable design is what makes it stand out. Renowned artist Sir Derek Lardelli guided the integration of Te Ao Maori principles into the design, ensuring that the facility not only serves as a place for swimming but also as a testament to the rich history of the Gisborne region. The design incorporates triangular shapes symbolic of waka sails and transparent views into the manawa (heart) of the facility. Overcoming significant challenges, including six major weather events and the disruption caused by Cyclone Gabrielle, the team delivered a state-of-the-art aquatic centre on budget and with minimal delay. The success of this project lies in its deep respect for cultural heritage, coupled with innovative architectural design and engineering, making Kiwa Pools not just a leisure facility but a cultural landmark for Gisborne.
Project: New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport Performance Institute Entrant Holmes Construction NZ Project Partners Alliance Fire and Security (Engineer), Architecture HDT (Architect/Designer), EnGeo (Engineer), Holmes Construction (Construction Company), NME Group (Engineer), Rider Levett Bucknall (Quantity Surveyor), Silvester Clark (Engineer) Owned By Gillies Group The New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport (NZCIS) Performance Institute includes exceptional new facilities, such as a FIFA and World Rugby approved indoor turf and a climate and altitude-controlled spin room. This large-scale training centre caters to high-performance athletes and professional teams, incorporating world-leading sports technology, such as specialist recovery pools and cryotherapy chambers, making it a pivotal development in the field of sports performance in New Zealand. The use of over 400 tonnes of fabricated structural steel exemplifies the project's innovative approach to reducing material use, without sacrificing structural integrity. The institute's design promotes universal accessibility, with ample circulation spaces and a focus on equitable access, including non-assigned team rooms to support mixed-gender team environments and inclusivity for disability sports.
Project: Kennedy Point Marina Office Entrant Trigg Construction Project Partners 22 Degrees Engineering (Engineer), Building Envelope Group (Engineer), Ignite Architects (Architect/Designer), Shorewise Engineering Consultants (Engineer), Trigg Construction (Project Manager) Owned By Kennedy Point Boat Harbour Ltd The Kennedy Point Marina Office is a floating mobile building that can be easily moved around without causing harm to the surrounding infrastructure or environment. It serves as a floating centrepiece at Waiheke Island, providing a variety of functions including administration, public amenities, and a quaint café, enhancing the marina's offerings and aesthetic appeal. The project combined functional design with exceptional craftsmanship, demanding high-level precision and innovation, as demonstrated by its premium timber panelling and construction process. The building was assembled on six securely linked concrete floating pontoons in Whangarei and then transported to Waiheke Island by a tow barge. The Trigg Construction team faced challenges in carefully constructing the structure on floating pontoons, requiring continuous adaptation to fluctuating building levels.
Project: Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre Entrant LT McGuinness Project Partners Beca (Service Engineer), Dunning Thornton (Engineer), Harrison Grierson (Seismic Engineer), LT McGuinness (Construction Company), Studio Pacific Architecture (Architect/Designer) Owned By Wellington City Council Willis Bond The Takina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre is a multiuse space, with a unique design that emphasises Te Whanganui-a-Tara’s Maori heritage. Consisting of three primary floors with mezzanines and utility spaces, and the largest exhibition gallery in Aotearoa New Zealand, it is Wellington City Council’s largest investment sinceSky Stadium 23 years ago. Unique to the centre is the intricate construction of its curved structure and Sefar mesh glazed facade, involving over 1,200 pieces of glass, each distinct in shape, which demanded precision and innovation in its execution. The building stands out for its commitment to sustainable construction, achieving a 5-Star Green Star rating by incorporating energy-efficient designs and sustainable materials. The centres impact extends beyond its architectural innovation, contributing significantly to Wellington's economy and community engagement.
Project: Christchurch Netball Centre Entrant Apollo Projects Project Partners Apollo Projects (Construction Company), Architecture HDT (Architect/Designer), GHD (Engineer) Owned By Christchurch Netball Centre The new Christchurch Netball Centre is set to become an indoor sports hub, enhancing the local sports scene in Canterbury. Apollo Projects successfully navigated environmental sensitivities and community considerations to deliver a facility that exceeds expectations, offering ten courts instead of the initially planned eight within the same budget. The centre not only provides a weather-proof venue for netball but also serves as a versatile space for various sports, fostering community engagement and honouring the cultural significance of Nga Puna Wai, which holds ancestral value for Ngai Tahu. With a mezzanine gathering space that can accommodate up to 300 people, the centre can host community events and features lift access, ensuring accessibility.
Project: Wellington Zoo Snow Leopard Habitat Entrant Naylor Love Wellington Project Partners Architecture Workshop Ltd (Architect/Designer), Dunning Thornton (Engineer), Local Landscape Architecture Collective (Architect/Designer), Maltbys Limited (Quantity Surveyor), Naylor Love Wellington (Construction Company) Owned By Wellington Zoo Trust The Wellington Zoo Snow Leopard Habitat is a testament to the complexities and innovative solutions required to create a specialised environment for a vulnerable species. Given the habitat's steep and narrow terrain, the construction process demanded an extraordinary level of precision and coordination. The project's bespoke nature meant deviating from typical building techniques, focusing instead on creating an environment that closely mimics the snow leopards' natural habitat, incorporating vegetation, terrain features, and enrichment elements conducive to their well-being. This project highlights the complexity of constructing animal habitats within a live zoo environment and demonstrates the potential for collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in construction. It underscores the importance of preserving and supporting vulnerable species through carefully designed and thoughtfully constructed environments.
Project: St Mary's Church - Pleasant Point Entrant Timaru Construction Project Partners Desmond Prisk Architects Ltd (Architect/Designer), Rawlinsons Limited (Project Manager), Timaru Construction (Construction Company) The new design of St Mary's Church pays homage to its original form, after it was destroyed by the Christchurch earthquakes. The new structure successfully echoes the former through recycled timber and salvaged interior elements. The build process was under the constant watch of local parishioners, adding a layer of communal interest to the project's execution. Timaru Construction navigated the complexities of building during the COVID-19 pandemic, facing supply chain challenges that impacted the schedule and costs. This project, unique for its small, close-knit community setting, demanded special attention to detail, especially when working at high elevations on the church's steep roof. The new church stands as a testament to resilience, community involvement, and the ability to overcome logistical and technical challenges in construction.
Project: Te Kete Aronui Rototuna Library Entrant Livingstone Building Project Partners AECOM (Engineer/Quantity Surveyor), Chow:HIll (Architect/Designer), Livingstone Building (Construction Company), Veros (Project Manager) Owned By Hamilton City Council The Te Kete Aronui Rototuna Library serves Hamilton's rapidly growing northeast community, providing a multifaceted hub that fosters community interaction and connection. Since opening, the library has significantly increased visitor numbers and library memberships, marking its success as a cherished community resource. The community engagement strategy was integral, involving stakeholder feedback sessions, social media, and collaboration with local mana whenua groups. These sessions informed the design narratives and incorporated Te Aranga Maori Design Principles. The building stands out for its architectural features, particularly the timber rafters, which create a visually striking roofline that embodies the library's weaving narrative. The construction of these features demanded thorough attention to detail and precision.
Project: Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa Entrant Hawkins Project Partners Hawkins (Construction Company), RCG (Architect/Designer) Owned By Pukeroa Lakefront Holdings Limited The Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa is a standout project in Rotorua, designed to deliver a luxurious experience. The spa features high-end materials and finishes, with bespoke carvings and specialist installations contributing to its luxury experience. The new spa, is founded on the cultural practices of Ngati Whakaue, offering a unique healing experience. This bespoke build was complex, sitting above a live geothermal bed which required innovative architectural and construction solutions. A 4,500 square metre floating slab was designed and built, with materials and fittings that will withstand the harsh environment.
Project: Mahara Gallery Entrant Crowe Construction & Associates Project Partners 335 Ltd (Engineer), Athfield Architects (Architect/Designer), Crowe Construction & Associates (Construction Company), The Building Intelligence Group (Project Manager) Owned By Kāpiti Coast District Council The Mahara Gallery project involved renovating and extending a building dating back to 1976. It is a significant cultural hub for the Kapiti Coast, offering enhanced exhibition space and facilities, including a retail area, collection store, and staff room. The 'black box' galleries in the upstairs area provide a distinct visual identity, linking to craftsmanship by mimicking the hands-on clay of a potter’s wheel. With a focus on sustainability, the build re-used the existing Rimu ceilings, which also added historical continuity. The design uniquely addresses temperature, humidity, and security across the various spaces, showcasing innovative design, sustainability, and cultural significance. Despite its modest size, Mahara Gallery presents complexities, such as working in a live public space, which required thorough planning to ensure public safety and minimal disruption to surrounding businesses.
Project: Whakatū Presbyterian Church Entrant Scott Construction Project Partners Irving Smith Architects (Architect/Designer), Scott Construction (Construction Company) Owned By Whakatū Presbyterian Church The Whakatu Presbyterian Church project, managed by Scott Construction, consolidated four separate parishes into one state-of-the-art facility, which represents a significant leap towards creating a sustainable and inclusive community space. The team at Scott Construction incorporated innovative construction techniques while adhering to the rich cultural heritage and communal aspirations of the local Presbyterian congregations in Nelson. One of the project's standout features is the extensive use of solid timber in the central atrium's structure. This choice not only invites a warm and a natural aesthetic into the communal spaces but also underscores a commitment to sustainability by maximising the use of local materials. The church's sustainability features extend beyond its use of timber. The project includes significant retention of existing trees on the site and a stormwater detention system.
Project: Naumi Hotel Wellington Entrant Gartshore Project Partners Gartshore Group (Construction Company), Material Creative (Architect/Designer) Owned By Naumi Hotels Group Stage 3 of the refurbishment of Naumi Hotel Wellington is an excellent example of transforming spaces within the confines of existing structures. The project brief was to enhance the luxury feel of the rooms without altering the original 'shell', highlighting sustainability and adaptability in design and construction. Unique health and safety measures were employed to accommodate the operational hotel environment, such as minimising noise pollution and creatively hoisting long materials to upper floors without disrupting hotel guests or pedestrian traffic. The refurbishment is distinguished by its bold use of colour and design elements, creating unexpected and cohesive spaces that contribute to a memorable guest experience. This final stage in the Naumi Hotel redevelopment revitalises the accommodation experience in Wellington and sets new standards in sustainable hotel design and guest comfort.
Project: Cloudy Bay - Cellar One Entrant Scott Construction Marlborough Project Partners Paul Rolfe Architects (Architect/Designer), Scott Construction Marlborough (Construction Company) Owned By Cloudy Bay Vineyards With skilful precision, the team at Scott Construction Marlborough has transformed Cloudy Bay's original 1985 cellar into a modern, sustainable space, beautifully elevating the facility. The new design seamlessly integrates a tank room for small batch wine operations, a wine library housing 4,000 bottles dating back to the label’s inception, and a blending room, creating a harmonious and functional environment. The renovation establishes Cloudy Bay – Cellar One as New Zealand's first commercial wine building to achieve a 5-star Green Star rating, emphasising a commitment to environmental excellence in the wine industry. Care was taken to adopt passive design principles that in combination with solar generation onsite would deliver net zero energy use.
Project: Murihiku Marae Redevelopment (Wharekai) Entrant Henderson Construction Project Partners Beca (Engineer), Boon Ltd (Architect/Designer), Henderson Construction Limited (Construction Company), Southern Quantity Surveyors (Project Manager) Owned By Waihōpai Rūnaka Incorporated The Murihiku Marae redevelopment is a testament to culturally sustainable construction practices, with a design mimicking the form of a tohora (whale). The new facilities, including a wharekai/ dining area, commercial kitchen, meeting spaces and multipurpose rooms, serve the local iwi’s cultural, educational, and civil defence needs, embodying a significant step forward for future generations. Safety measures were planned with precision, incorporating daily briefings and comprehensive site inductions that included cultural respect and sustainability alongside standard health and safety protocols. This holistic approach to safety and cultural sensitivity contributed significantly to the project's positive work environment and achievement of social objectives.
Project: Kā Uri, Awanui Entrant Glamuzina Architects Project Partners Glamuzina Architects (Architect/Designer), Ngāti Kuri Board (Project Manager) Ka Uri in Awanui is a symbolic and physical gateway in the far north of New Zealand. It is also a culturally significant and multifaceted development that embodies the essence of Ngati Kuri. Providing multiple programmes under one roof, including an opportunity for tourists to learn about the local culture and history, other key features include a waka centre, café, and exhibition spaces. The project prioritised community and culture, aiming to foster local employment, support sustainable food cultivation, and offer educational and business opportunities. Ka Uri's diverse facilities, from a kauri workshop to a visitor experience centre, celebrate not only Ngati Kuri's heritage but also offer a dynamic, educational, and inclusive space for the community and visitors alike.
Project: Newtown Community & Cultural Centre Entrant WSP Project Partners Stellar Projects (Project Manager), Watts & Hughes Construction (Construction Company), WSP (Architect/Designer) Owned By Wellington City Council The WSP team has successfully refurbished the Newtown Community and Cultural Centre in Wellington. The revitalised space includes a new entrance and foyer while also reinstating many of the original heritage features, making the building more accessible, community-focused, and welcoming. The renovation has been warmly received by the Newtown Community Trust and local residents, marking a new chapter for this historical community hub. A standout aspect of the project was its community-led approach, incorporating extensive local engagement and workshops to ensure the centre met the needs and expectations of the Newtown community. The conservation of the building’s heritage fabric ensures its continued service to the community, with the transformed theatre becoming a high-spec performance space.
Project: Te Karaka Lodge Entrant Pukekohe Builders Project Partners BW Henderson Electricians (Engineer), Chibnall Buckell Team Architects (Architect/Designer), Gibbons Civil Engineering (Engineer), John Wolfsbauer Plumbing Ltd (Engineer), Octa Associates (Project Manager), Perfect Air (Engineer), Pukekohe Builders (Construction Company) Owned By Weihai Holding Ltd The design of Te Karaka Lodge draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious blend of luxury and natural beauty. The project distinguishes itself with the incorporation of exposed rafters and ridge beams with hidden fixings, as well as custom-designed stainless-steel brackets for the pergolas. Initially challenging, the lodge's remote setting ultimately contributes to its appeal, offering guests a unique and immersive rural retreat experience. Pukekohe Builders overcame numerous challenges, including restricted site access, communication difficulties in a remote location, and delays caused by severe weather. Innovative solutions were required for technical aspects of the building design, such as fire and acoustic walls and the precision installation of exposed Glulam beams.
Project: Silky Otter Cinema Richmond Entrant Gibbons Naylor Project Partners Ignite Architects (Architect/Designer), Vector Structural Engineering (Engineer) Owned By Gibbons Holdings Limited The Silky Otter Cinema is a testament to collaboration. The project's success is reflected in the community's warm reception and the seamless integration of the cinema with the food and beverage area, creating a lively social hub. During construction, a key focus was on acoustics, which necessitated innovative solutions to meet stringent design requirements. The transition from suspended to static ceilings for the theatres, driven by the need to satisfy seismic and sound containment criteria, exemplifies the team’s skill and adaptability. This dedication ensured the cinemas achieved high acoustic standards to minimise noise bleed between auditoriums.