CASE STUDY

Xtreme Zero Waste Recycling Center

KOROK Panels at Work in Raglan: Quieting the Glass Recycling Hub

We’ve just wrapped up a project at the Xtreme Zero Waste recycling center in Raglan, where we installed a “box” using our fire and acoustic panels around their glass recycling facility. The goal? To keep the noise down from the glass recycling process. The crew at Xtreme Zero Waste couldn’t be happier, saying, “The box looks awesome and works well.” It’s great to see our panels doing their job, making the space quieter and more comfortable for everyone involved. We’re stoked to have been part of this project and to see our panels making a difference right here in Raglan.

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The Pacifica Tower

The Pacifica – Elevating Auckland’s Skyline with KOROK

Standing at 178 meters and reshaping the Auckland skyline, The Pacifica is New Zealand’s tallest residential tower. This iconic 57-story structure, designed by Plus Architecture and developed by Hengyi, was brought to life by one of New Zealand’s largest construction firms, Icon. With 273 luxurious apartments ranging from one-bedroom units to super-penthouses, The Pacifica is not just a solution to Auckland’s residential housing shortage but also a cornerstone for the rapid gentrification of its district.

The Pacifica – Elevating Auckland’s Skyline with KOROK

Standing at 178 meters and reshaping the Auckland skyline, The Pacifica is New Zealand’s tallest residential tower. This iconic 57-story structure, designed by Plus Architecture and developed by Hengyi, was brought to life by one of New Zealand’s largest construction firms, Icon. With 273 luxurious apartments ranging from one-bedroom units to super-penthouses, The Pacifica is not just a solution to Auckland’s residential housing shortage but also a cornerstone for the rapid gentrification of its district.

The Pacifica – Elevating Auckland’s Skyline with KOROK

Standing at 178 meters and reshaping the Auckland skyline, The Pacifica is New Zealand’s tallest residential tower. This iconic 57-story structure, designed by Plus Architecture and developed by Hengyi, was brought to life by one of New Zealand’s largest construction firms, Icon. With 273 luxurious apartments ranging from one-bedroom units to super-penthouses, The Pacifica is not just a solution to Auckland’s residential housing shortage but also a cornerstone for the rapid gentrification of its district.

Architectural Vision

The Pacifica’s design, inspired by Auckland’s network of laneways and expansive blue skies, features a unique transition from a darker, intricate lower half to a lighter, open upper half. Plus Architecture’s creative lead, Ian Briggs, highlights the meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the glasswork that transitions from granular at the lower levels to more serene as it reaches the skyline. The building not only harmonizes with the street-level environment but also establishes a distinct presence in Auckland’s evolving cityscape.

KOROK’s Contribution

KOROK played a crucial role in ensuring The Pacifica’s safety and sound insulation by supplying all the fire and acoustic rated panels used in the lift shafts, risers, and ducts

Awards and Recognition

The Pacifica has garnered significant acclaim, including:

• 2023 Concrete NZ Awards – Nauhria Premier Concrete Award – Winner

• 2022 New Zealand Commercial Project Awards – Residential – Gold
• 2021 International Property Awards: Asia Pacific – Best Apartment/Condominium New Zealand Award – Winner
• 2021 Property Council New Zealand Rider Levett Bucknall Property Industry Awards – Multi-Unit Residential Property Award – Winner

Architectural Highlights

The Pacifica integrates luxury and functionality across its 273 apartments. Upper-level units feature winter gardens that provide a buffer between residents and the outside environment, echoing the sense of a traditional front garden. The interiors reflect contemporary New Zealand design with natural materials and darker timbers, creating a warm, sheltering atmosphere.

The Pacifica stands as a testament to modern residential architecture, combining luxury living with practical urban solutions. KOROK’s fire and acoustic rated panels played an essential role in this landmark project, reflecting our commitment to delivering high-performance building solutions. This project underscores our dedication to enhancing safety, efficiency, and comfort in luxury residential construction.

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BNZ Place: A Testament to Innovation and Sustainability

After nearly four years of design and construction, BNZ Place at 1 Whitmore Street in Wellington is officially open. This 12-storey, 17,000m² building, a collaborative effort between Studio Pacific Architecture and Jasmax, epitomizes practical and purposeful workplace design, combining sustainability, wellbeing, and functionality.

Seismic Resilience and Safety

BNZ Place is one of the most seismically resilient buildings in New Zealand, featuring base isolation to protect against significant structural damage during earthquakes. Raised on a plinth to minimize flood risks and supported by piles extending 60 meters below ground, the building exceeds seismic strength requirements with an NBS rating above 180%.

Innovative Features and Sustainability

Targeting a 5 Green Star As-Built rating, BNZ Place incorporates high-performance solar control glass, energy-efficient systems, and a structural steel diagrid. Efficient floorplates, a double-height entry lobby, inter-floor stairs, and a rooftop courtyard contribute to its state-of-the-art design.

KOROK’s Contribution

KOROK played a crucial role in the construction of BNZ Place by supplying fire and acoustic walls for lift shafts, risers, and ducts. KOROK panels offer significant advantages over traditional construction, as they can be installed from one side only, eliminating the need for scaffolding inside shafts and reducing construction time and costs. Additionally, KOROK panels can be installed before the structure is watertight, preventing water ingress through open shafts.

A Collaborative Effort

The project involved collaboration with various stakeholders, including Newcrest LP, the developer behind the building. CEO Dan Huggins emphasized BNZ’s commitment to Wellington and its future. “BNZ Place reflects our commitment to the city and our vision for the future. We are thrilled to share this vibrant and innovative space with our customers, colleagues, and the people of Wellington,” he said.

BNZ Place at 1 Whitmore Street symbolizes resilience, innovation, and sustainability. With its doors now open, it stands as a testament to collaboration, forward-thinking design, and a commitment to a better future for Wellington.

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Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre

Situated directly across from the New Zealand Museum, Te Papa, Tākina is a modern facility spread across three floors. The upper levels offer extensive conference spaces accommodating up to 1600 delegates, while the ground floor is dedicated to international and domestic exhibitions. Built to a 5-Star Greenstar standard, Tākina exemplifies sustainable building practices in New Zealand. We commend LT McGuinness Ltd for their exceptional leadership and execution throughout the Tākina project. Their focus on quality, safety, and innovation ensured that Tākina achieved high standards in fire safety, acoustic control, and construction efficiency.

Situated directly across from the New Zealand Museum, Te Papa, Tākina is a modern facility spread across three floors. The upper levels offer extensive conference spaces accommodating up to 1600 delegates, while the ground floor is dedicated to international and domestic exhibitions. Built to a 5-Star Greenstar standard, Tākina exemplifies sustainable building practices in New Zealand.

We commend LT McGuinness Ltd for their exceptional leadership and execution throughout the Tākina project. Their focus on quality, safety, and innovation ensured that Tākina achieved high standards in fire safety, acoustic control, and construction efficiency. Their collaborative approach and dedication to sustainable building practices have significantly benefited the project, and we are pleased to have been part of their team.

Project Highlights:

• Earthquake Protection: Tākina’s structural resilience is ensured by 32 base isolators, allowing for movement up to 750mm in any direction.
• Innovative Design: The building features an expansive curtain wall, curved entries, and large stud heights, which posed unique construction challenges that were successfully managed.
• Health and Safety: Despite the complexities, the project saw no major accidents, highlighting the effectiveness of rigorous health and safety protocols.
• Budget and Timeline: With a transparent tender model and precise planning, the project was completed within budget and on schedule, despite market fluctuations.

KOROK Contribution

• Product Supplied: 78mm Panels Gen 2
• Service Provided: Lift Shafts, Risers, Ducts Fire and Acoustic Rated Protection

KOROK is proud to have supplied our 78mm Panels Gen 2 for the Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre. Our participation in this project enabled us to enhance the efficiency of both the design and construction phases.

Key Features and Benefits of KOROK Panels:

• Single-Side Installation: Panels can be installed from one side only, eliminating the need for scaffolding inside the shaft, which reduces construction time and costs.
• Early Installation: KOROK panels can be installed before the structure is fully watertight, helping to prevent water from entering the building through open shafts.
• Cost and Time Efficiency: The innovative design of KOROK panels streamlines the construction process, resulting in faster program times and overall cost savings.

The Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre showcases modern architectural design and the performance of KOROK products. By choosing KOROK, LT McGuinness Ltd ensured that Tākina met high standards of fire safety, acoustic control, and construction efficiency. We are pleased to have contributed to this significant project, enhancing Wellington’s skyline and setting a benchmark in sustainable construction. For more information on how KOROK can enhance your next project, please contact us.

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Voco-HIE Hotel

KOROK® was involved in the construction of a dual-branded hotel in Auckland’s Central Business Precinct. Located at the corner of Albert and Wyndham Streets, this project, led by Icon NZ, began in 2019 and was completed in December 2021. The VOCO-HIE development is a 38-story building, standing approximately 135 meters tall, making it one of New Zealand’s tallest structures. The building offers expansive views across Waitemata Harbour and Mount Eden, featuring a modern design.

Building Design and Features

The dual-branded hotel includes:

• A 4-story glazed podium with separate entries for both hotels.
• Guest services such as an all-day restaurant, bar, fitness center, and retail spaces.
• 294 Holiday Inn Express rooms on the lower floors.
• 200 VOCO Hotel rooms on the upper floors.

The VOCO brand, chosen by global hotel operator IHG, emphasizes sustainability through initiatives like recycling plastic bottles for bedding and using honey from onsite bees. The Auckland VOCO hotel continues these practices, alongside the ‘Me Time’ concept focusing on premium beds, superior showers, user-friendly technology, and innovative lighting.

KOROK®’s Contribution

KOROK® provided high-performance fire and acoustic wall systems for the VOCO-HIE development. Key highlights include:

• Fire Protection: KOROK® systems offer up to a 2-hour fire rating, ensuring strong fire safety.
• Acoustic Performance: The systems exceed the minimum STC 55 rating for hotels, achieving an STC 63 rating, ideal for ensuring a quiet environment for guests.
• Design and Installation: KOROK®’s interlocking panels simplified and sped up installation, reducing labor costs and construction time. The panels’ clip-together design allowed for easy installation by a small crew, with comprehensive installation guides and on-site training provided.
• Space Efficiency: The small footprint of KOROK® panels maximized usable floor space, offering developers greater flexibility in building design and planning.

Environmental Commitment

KOROK® panels were manufactured in New Zealand from locally sourced materials and were custom-made to minimize waste. They are fully recyclable and reusable, aligning with the sustainable ethos of the VOCO brand.

Collaboration and Innovation

KOROK® and Icon NZ collaborated closely to devise solutions for lift shafts and staircases, reflecting a commitment to quality and innovation in construction.

KOROK® was proud to contribute to the VOCO-HIE dual-branded hotel project, providing high-performance fire and acoustic wall systems that supported the building’s design and sustainability goals. This project showcased KOROK®’s dedication to quality and innovative building solutions.

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CASE STUDY

Auckland Film Studio and Sound Stage

KOROK is proud to have supplied the critical fire and acoustic wall systems for the Auckland Film Studio and Sound Stage project. Designed by Ignite Architects and built by Haydn & Rollett Construction, this facility sets a new standard in the New Zealand cinema industry.

KOROK’s Contribution

Our 78mm KOROK panels Gen 2 were chosen for their superior fire and sound-rated properties, achieving a Noise Criterion rating below NC-20. This was crucial in ensuring optimal recording conditions, despite the studios’ proximity to urban noise sources like Auckland’s western rail line.

Sustainable Design and Construction

The project has been awarded a 4 Green Star As-Built rating, recognizing its sustainable design and construction practices.

KOROK is honoured to contribute to a project that not only pushes the boundaries of film studio design but also promotes sustainability and economic growth in Auckland. We look forward to seeing the long-term benefits this project will bring to the local community and the entertainment industry.

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Dunedin’s Social Housing Project

In 2022, Dunedin’s Loan and Mercantile building was transformed into the Suzanne Lund Community Loft Apartments, a notable social housing development. This project, driven by Russell Lund of Lund South Ltd, showcases the practical application of 78mm KOROK panels Gen 2.

Proactive Design Leadership

Russell & Suzanne Lund’s proactive approach was essential in bringing this project to fruition. their decision to use KOROK panels ensured that the building met necessary safety and performance standards. The Lund’s leadership in design and development has set a positive example for integrating heritage preservation with modern housing needs.

Social Housing Impact

The Suzanne Lund Community Loft Apartments provide 30 social housing units, managed by the Salvation Army. This includes 28 one-bedroom units, one two-bedroom unit, and one three-bedroom unit, along with communal facilities such as a support office, community room, courtyard, drying room, and bike storage. This development addresses the need for social housing in Dunedin, offering a supportive environment for low-income tenants.

Flexibility of KOROK Panels

KOROK was chosen for its flexibility in meeting the project’s requirements. lightweight nature and strong performance were key in adapting the heritage structure to modern standards without compromising its historical integrity. This flexibility makes KOROK panels a trusted choice for diverse construction projects. The 78mm KOROK panels Gen 2, used extensively in this project, are known for their high performance and lightweight design. These fire and acoustic-rated panels are made from zinc-coated steel strips, meeting AS/NZS1397:2001 standards. KOROK panels offer excellent fire resistance and acoustic performance, making them suitable for various construction needs.

The use of 78mm KOROK panels Gen 2 in the Suzanne Lund Community Loft Apartments highlights their effectiveness in demanding construction projects. This case study demonstrates KOROK’s role in transforming a heritage building into a valuable social housing resource and emphasizes Russell & Suzanne Lund’s proactive leadership in creating community-focused housing solutions.

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CASE STUDY

Nugget Avenue Terraces – Premium Terraced Living in Hobsonville Point, Auckland

Discover Modern Living at Nugget Avenue Terraces

Nestled in the vibrant community of Hobsonville Point, Auckland, the Nugget Avenue Terraces offer contemporary, safe, and sustainable living. This terraced housing project was designed by Construkt Architects and expertly built by Universal Homes. The project highlights the cutting-edge KOROK Intertenancy Terraced Housing System, ensuring superior fire and acoustic performance for urban living.

Seamless Integration with Nature and Community

Nugget Avenue Terraces are designed to harmonize with the natural landscape of Buckley B Precinct. The homes showcase modern architectural elements, including bold colors and sustainable materials, making them a standout addition to the Hobsonville Point neighborhood. With a design that respects the land’s natural contours, these terraces offer not only aesthetic appeal but also an environmentally friendly solution.

Unmatched Safety with KOROK Intertenancy System

At the heart of this development is the innovative KOROK Intertenancy System, engineered for exceptional fire and acoustic protection. Traditional terraced housing systems often rely on internal linings for fire resistance, which can be compromised by penetrations. In contrast, KOROK’s system uses a robust steel and aerated concrete core, creating a highly durable barrier that significantly enhances fire protection between homes.

KOROK’s smart design ensures that in the event of a fire, its aluminum brackets melt on the fire-facing side, maintaining structural integrity on the opposite side. This safety feature gives residents peace of mind, knowing their homes are built with the highest safety standards in mind.

Why Choose KOROK for Terraced Housing?

• Fire-Rated Protection: KOROK panels create a solid barrier that withstands high temperatures, ensuring resident safety.
• Acoustic Efficiency: Enjoy quiet living spaces with superior sound insulation between homes.
• Durability and Strength: Built to last, KOROK systems offer enhanced protection against external elements, ensuring long-term durability.
• Faster Installation: With pre-finished panels, the KOROK system allows for quicker, more efficient construction, saving time and costs.

Collaboration for Quality

The success of Nugget Avenue Terraces is a result of the seamless collaboration between Construkt Architects and Universal Homes. Together, they delivered a high-quality living space that not only meets aesthetic and functional needs but also prioritizes safety, durability, and acoustic comfort.

Superior Fire and Acoustic Protection

The KOROK 78mm panels used in this project provide both fire resistance and noise reduction, making them the ideal choice for urban terraced housing developments. Their innovative design contributes to faster installation times and long-term reliability, enhancing the overall living experience.

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Boathouse Bay: A Showcase of Sustainable Community Living

Located at Snells Beach, just north of Auckland, Boathouse Bay by Crosson Architects has set a new standard in environmentally-conscious design, winning the prestigious title of Home of the Year 2024. This award-winning project offers a perfect blend of architecture and nature, creating a community-focused environment that celebrates New Zealand’s coastal lifestyle.

Innovative Design with a Coastal Influence

Inspired by the traditional Kiwi bach, Boathouse Bay reflects simplicity and connection to nature. The development embraces natural materials, muted tones, and open communal spaces, fostering a sense of unity among its residents. The layout encourages interaction, with thoughtfully designed pathways connecting homes to shared outdoor areas, reinforcing the idea of community living.

KOROK’s Role in Enhancing Safety and Sustainability

Central to Boathouse Bay’s design is the use of 51mm KOROK Intertenancy Terraced Housing Systems, which offer superior fire protection without compromising the project’s environmental goals. Our fire-rated systems ensure that the development remains safe, durable, and sustainable. The aluminum brackets included in the KOROK system safeguard the structure in the event of a fire, reinforcing both safety and structural integrity for terraced housing.

Setting a Benchmark for Future Living

Boathouse Bay is more than just a residential development—it’s an example of how modern, community-focused living spaces can integrate sustainability, safety, and social interaction. As the Home of the Year 2024, it stands as an inspiration for future projects that aspire to merge contemporary design with environmental stewardship.

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Walter Merton Road Terraces: A New Standard in Terraced Housing

Completed in 2019, the Walter Merton Road Terraces in Hobsonville Point, Auckland, became a benchmark for modern living. This project, a collaborative effort between Universal Homes and Construkt Architects, showcases a harmonious blend of design excellence and practical living solutions, offering 2, 3, and 4 bedroom terraced homes that cater to a diverse market.

Traditional terraced housing often relies on internal linings for fire resistance, which can be compromised by alterations or penetrations. KOROK® introduces a n innovative solution with its Intertenancy System, ensuring fire safety without depending on these internal linings. At its core, this system uses specially designed aluminium brackets to attach fire-resistant KOROK® panels between frames. In the event of a fire, the system is engineered to allow the side exposed to fire to detach safely, thanks to the melting of the aluminium brackets, while keeping the panels intact and supported on the opposite side. This innovative approach significantly enhances the building’s fire safety measures by maintaining a robust fire barrier between units.

The KOROK® system’s integration into the Walter Merton Road Terraces project highlights not only a commitment to resident safety but also to maintaining the architectural integrity of the development. Its ability to blend seamlessly with the project’s design characteristic, emphasising durability, is a testament to the system’s adaptability and effectiveness.

Through the Walter Merton Road Terraces project, KOROK® played an important role in creating safer and more resilient homes. This endeavour not only enhances the safety standards of terraced housing in Auckland but also sets a new benchmark for future developments in utilizing innovative solutions for fire safety and building durability.

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