Sound Solutions for Loud Workspaces: How KOROK Panels Tame Machinery Noise

When machinery is operating at high intensity, the noise can be just as intense as the output. Whether it’s recycling, manufacturing, or any high-impact industrial process, managing sound is not just a comfort issue – it’s a health, safety, and productivity one.

At KOROK, we understand the challenges that come with acoustic performances. That’s why our fire and acoustic wall systems are engineered to offer more than just compliance – they’re built to perform under pressure, especially when sound control is critical.

Real-World Results in Raglan: Xtreme Zero Waste

A great example of this in action is our recent project at the Xtreme Zero Waste Recycling Center in Raglan.

The challenge? Containing the loud crashes and clinks from their glass recycling facility – an essential part of their operation, but not the easiest on the ears.

Our solution was simple but effective: construct a purpose-built enclosure using KOROK fire and acoustic panels – essentially a “box” that wrapped around the recycling machinery to absorb and block the sound.

The result? Immediate improvement.

“The box looks awesome and works well,” the Xtreme team told us. It’s now a noticeably quieter and more comfortable environment for staff and visitors alike.

Why KOROK Panels Work for Noisy Machinery

KOROK wall systems are purpose-built for industrial environments, offering high acoustic performance to reduce machinery noise, along with fire resistance for added safety. Their durable construction ensures reliable performance under pressure, while the modular design allows for tailored solutions—from full enclosures to partitions. Plus, they deliver a clean, professional look, as demonstrated in real-world applications like Raglan.

For facilities like Xtreme Zero Waste, acoustic control isn’t just a luxury – it’s essential to keep workers safe, comply with council noise regulations, and maintain good relationships with surrounding communities.  So, if you’re facing excessive noise from machinery, get in touch. We’ll help you design a system that keeps the sound where it belongs – inside the box.

Interested in acoustic solutions for your facility?

KOROK Systems for Aged Care & Retirement Projects

As New Zealand’s population ages, demand is growing for retirement and aged care facilities that deliver comfort, safety, and peace of mind. That’s where KOROK® Fire and Acoustic Rated Wall Systems come in – designed to meet the unique demands of healthcare and retirement village construction.

Why KOROK is a Smart Choice for Retirement Living:

See KOROK in Action

Metlifecare Gulf Rise – Red Beach, Auckland

Metlifecare Gulf Rise in Red Beach is a standout example of modern retirement living — open, connected, and community-focused. With architectural input from Warren and Mahoney (Stage 1), Ignite Architects (Stages 1–4 of Precinct Two), and landscape design by Boffa Miskell, the project is a masterclass in designing for wellbeing and longevity.

KOROK proudly supplied our fire and acoustic wall systems throughout the development, helping deliver on the vision of safe, peaceful, and efficient living for older New Zealanders

• Read the Case Study →

Summerset St John’s – Auckland

Summerset St John’s Retirement Village represents the pinnacle of modern retirement living—where luxury, location, and lifestyle converge. Set in Auckland’s eastern suburbs with sweeping views and proximity to beaches, cafes, golf clubs, and key amenities, it offers an unmatched standard of comfort and care.

KOROK is proud to have played a vital role in ensuring the safety, acoustic comfort, and performance of this flagship development by supplying our fire and acoustic rated wall systems across key areas of the project.

• Read the Case Study →

Ready to future-proof your next retirement project?
Get in touch with our team for system recommendations, CAD files, and technical support.

Smart Wall Solutions for High-Performance Healthcare Environments

KOROK: There’s No Substitute for Tested Performance

Fire & Acoustic Wall Systems Trusted in Healthcare. KOROK® is a proven fire and acoustic wall system that delivers key performance benefits for healthcare construction. Hospitals demand the highest standards in safety, acoustic control, compliance and speed of delivery. KOROK delivers – with BRANZ-appraised, tested systems that are already trusted in hospitals, corridors, IT rooms, service risers, lift shafts, and more

Engineered for IL3/IL4 Resilience: Seismic Performance and Rapid Remediation Design

As the ultimate All-in-One solution for fire & acoustic-rated wall systems, KOROK® panels offer unmatched performance for high-importance structures. With strong seismic performance and the ability to withstand high drift limits, KOROK® panels are ideal for IL3 and IL4 buildings, such as hospitals, emergency response centres, and essential utilities. By undertaking this seismic testing, KOROK® reinforces its commitment to superior building resilience, helping to minimize damage, lower repair costs, and maintain operational continuity after earthquakes.

Core Benefits That Deliver Certainty in Fire, Acoustic, Seismic, and Programme Performance

All-in-one Solution for all Fire and Acoustic Rated Walls, Engineered for Complex Healthcare Builds

One system, multiple applications. From intertenancy walls to lift shafts, risers, ducts and corridors. KOROK panels provide comprehensive protection throughout your entire project.

LIFT SHAFTS

SERVICE RISERS & DUCTS

CORRIDORS & HALLWAYS

INTERTENANCY WALLS

STAIRCASE & ESCAPE PATHS

PLANT ROOMS & IT ROOMS

Save Time. Save Labour. Reduce Risk.

Need more info or want to present this to a client? We can help

At KOROK, we know that healthcare projects are high-stakes environments, with no room for delays, compliance issues, or uncertainty. That’s why we offer KOROK 360, a full-circle support package developed to give you confidence from concept to completion. Whether you’re in early-stage design or managing construction on site, KOROK 360 provides targeted, hands-on support tailored to your needs

Ready to Spec KOROK?

Let’s lock it in, and get your project moving with tested, proven performance. Whether you’re working on early-stage design, refining your specification, or needing trusted fire and acoustic systems that meet healthcare demands – we’re here to help. Get expert guidance, fast documentation, and the confidence that comes from working with systems already trusted in hospitals across New Zealand.

Talk to us today and bring KOROK certainty to your next healthcare build.

Paul Carrigan
Specification Manager
📧 paul@korok.com | 📞 0800 KOROK NZ

Andrew Hawkins
Specification Manager
📧 andrew@korok.com | 📞 0800 KOROK NZ

New Fire Barrier Manual for KOROK® Wall Systems

In Partnership with RYANFIRE

KOROK® Seismic Test

KOROK Sets a New Benchmark in Seismic Performance

KOROK® has raised the standard for seismic resilience, proving its durability in the toughest conditions. Recent seismic testing conducted at BRANZ in 2024 confirmed that KOROK panels can withstand high levels of drift, ensuring minimal damage, reduced repair costs, and faster recovery following earthquakes.

These rigorous tests, performed in accordance with FEMA 461 and NZS 1170.5:2004 standards, evaluated KOROK panels under both in-plane and out-of-plane seismic conditions. No other system in New Zealand has undergone such extensive testing across multiple wall configurations.

With their exceptional seismic, fire, and acoustic performance, KOROK panels are the ideal choice for high-importance structures, including hospitals, emergency response centres, and essential utilities. This milestone reaffirms KOROK’s commitment to delivering market-leading solutions that enhance building resilience and safety.

For more details, visit our Seismic Resource page and discover why KOROK is the trusted name in performance-driven wall systems.

High-Performance Fire Sealants for KOROK® Wall Systems

The KOROK® Acrylic Fire Seal and KOROK® MS Fire Seal are high-performance fire-resistant sealants engineered to enhance building safety in KOROK wall systems. Both products offer up to four hours of certified fire resistance, making them ideal for fire-rated joint applications in settings like intertenancy walls, lift cores, riser ducts, and stairwells.

KOROK® MS Fire Sealant

Introducing the KOROK MS Fire Seal, a single-component, hybrid sealant engineered to deliver high-performance fire resistance in building projects. Ideal for integration with KOROK wall systems, this innovative product provides a lasting, elastic seal that effectively withstands fire, UV, and environmental stresses without compromising on quality or safety.

Key Features and Benefits

KOROK MS Fire Seal stands out for its durability and advanced formulation. Here’s why it’s the go-to choice for reliable, fire-resistant joint sealing:

• High Elasticity and Movement Capability: With a movement tolerance of ±25%, KOROK MS Fire Seal offers high flexibility, making it adaptable to various structural shifts and expansions without cracking.
• Safe and Environmentally Friendly: Free from isocyanates, solvents, and silicones, it’s engineered for safety and designed to prevent the release of halogenated by-products during fire exposure.
• Fast Curing with Minimal Shrinkage: KOROK MS Fire Seal cures quickly with nearly no shrinkage, ensuring consistent, secure joints that won’t deteriorate over time.
• Non-Corrosive with Excellent Adhesion: Whether applied to metal, wood, concrete, or other materials, the sealant forms a strong, lasting bond that won’t corrode or weaken with age.
• Outstanding UV and Weather Resistance: Its robust formula stands up to UV light, moisture, and fluctuating temperatures, keeping joints resilient and intact, even in harsh conditions.
• Easy to Apply in Various Temperatures: With a user-friendly application in both warm and cool conditions, KOROK MS Fire Seal simplifies installation without compromising quality.
• 4-Hour Fire Rating: Tested and certified according to EN1366-4 and EN1366-3, KOROK MS Fire Seal offers up to 4 hours of fire resistance, ensuring critical protection in fire-rated assemblies.

KOROK® Acrylic Fire Seal

The KOROK® Acrylic Fire Seal is a high-quality, water-based acrylic sealant designed to enhance fire safety and acoustic efficiency across a variety of building projects. Engineered for fire-rated joint applications, this sealant delivers excellent performance while providing easy, water-based cleanup, making it an ideal choice for both new builds and retrofit applications.

Features & Benefits

1. Fire Resistance: The KOROK® Acrylic Fire Seal offers fire resistance for up to four hours, helping to protect buildings from fire spread. This performance is certified according to the AS1530.4:2014 standard, a critical safety benchmark for the construction industry.
2. Acoustic Performance: In addition to fire safety, the KOROK® Acrylic Fire Seal contains acoustic properties that effectively reduce sound transmission. This dual-purpose functionality is especially beneficial in high-density living spaces, such as apartment complexes, where both fire and noise control are priorities.
3. Ease of Application and Cleanup: As a water-based acrylic product, the KOROK® Acrylic Fire Seal is simple to apply and clean, providing a practical solution for contractors working with KOROK® systems.

Tested & Certified

The KOROK® Acrylic Fire Seal has been rigorously tested to ensure compliance with AS1530.4:2014, meeting industry standards for fire performance and safety. Additionally, this product is low in volatile organic compounds (VOC), making it a safer and more environmentally friendly option.

Applications

The KOROK® Acrylic Fire Seal is approved for use with KOROK® wall and partition systems, complementing their fire and acoustic protection. It is ideal for joint applications where fire and sound insulation are essential, such as:

• Intertenancy walls
• Lift cores
• Riser ducts
• Stairwell enclosures

KOROK’s Sustainability Journey

At KOROK, sustainability is a core value. Our journey towards carbon neutrality is marked by significant milestones that reflect our commitment to reducing our environmental impact and enhancing the eco-friendliness of our products.

2001 Launch into New Zealand Market.

Between 2001 and 2017:

KOROK, initially launched in New Zealand as SPEEDWALL, focused on improving construction with streamlined systems that reduced waste, minimised lining needs, and boosted efficiency. Our commitment to sustainability has been integral since the start.

• Manufacturing Efficiency: Upgraded technologies to reduce energy use and optimise resources.
• Wastewater Management: A modern treatment plant for recycling and reducing water impact.
• By-product Reduction: Enhanced recycling processes to minimise waste.

2017: DECLARE Label

In 2017, we obtained the DECLARE Label, listing the ingredients in our products and aligning with the LEED green building rating system. This helped us meet industry standards and be included in GreenStar and HomeStar ratings.

April 2021: Joining NZ Green Building Council

In April 2021, we joined the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC), supporting eco-friendly building practices.

December 2021: Environmental Choice New Zealand Licence

By December 2021, we obtained the Environmental Choice New Zealand Licence, recognising our products as better for the environment, enhancing our credibility among architects and builders and helping us gain accreditation for GreenStar and HomeStar products.

March 2023: Carbon Footprint Analysis

In March 2023, we conducted a carbon footprint analysis of our panels, meeting market demands and preparing for new NZ Building Code regulations.

April 2023: VOC Emissions Analysis

We analysed VOC emissions from our sealants in April 2023, addressing health concerns and meeting the demands of architects.

July 2024: Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)

In July 2024, we completed our Galv Panel Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), followed by our Colour Panel EPD in August, providing a verified summary of our product’s environmental impact over their life cycle. These EPDs are recognised internationally and often specified in tender documents and contracts.

Ongoing Carbon Reduction Efforts

Our commitment to sustainability includes ongoing initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint:

• Upgrading lighting to LEDs.
• Converting forklifts from LPG to battery power
• Recycling steel scrap.
• Recycling office and kitchen waste.
• Repurposing leftover concrete for clean fill.
• Exploring options to reuse leftover concrete and alternative fibres.
• Continuously reviewing and reducing printing.
• Factory looking at swapping from cheap throwaway pneumatic punches to something more robust (May 24)
• Even though an EPD is valid for 5 years, we will constantly review ours. We are looking forward to the changes that NZ Steel have planned for next year, moving from BOF furnaces (primary) to EAF furnaces (secondary). This will have a very positive impact on our Carbon footprint.

KOROK’s sustainability efforts highlight our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint. From the DECLARE Label to our EPDs, we continuously strive for improvement, aiming for a greener, more sustainable future.

Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs)

We are proud to announce the completion of our Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), a testament to our commitment to transparency and sustainability. One for our Galv panel and one for our Colour panel.

What is an EPD?

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is a certified, independently verified summary of a product’s environmental impact over its entire life cycle. It evaluates:

• The materials extracted from the earth.
• Energy used in the production, transportation and installation.
• The environmental impacts of using, disposing, or recycling the product.

The EPD covers a range of environmental indicators, including the potential for carbon emissions, air and water pollution, and depletion of natural resources. Based on international standards (ISO 14025 and EN 15804 for building materials), our EPD is independently verified, making it a trusted and reputable source of information. It is recognized by industries, companies, and governments, and is often specified in tender documents and contracts.

Download KOROK’s EPD >>

Download KOROK’s EPD >>

Recent Articles

KOROK Backs Young Kiwi Karting Star Carson Daly

We at KOROK are stoked to announce our sponsorship of Carson Daly (#97), a young gun in the New Zealand karting scene, as he gears up for the 2024 ROK Cup Superfinal in Italy. This event is the real deal, bringing together top drivers from over 35 countries at the South Garda Karting track in Lonato from October 15th to 19th.

Carson’s been tearing up the track since he was six, starting in the Racket Cadet class. Now, at 14, he’s racing full-size karts, and it’s become a big part of life for him and his family. His mum, dad, and sister Harper (who races in the Vortex Mini Rok class) are always by his side, showing that karting is truly a family affair.

This year, Carson smashed it at the 2024 Kartsport New Zealand National Sprint Championships over Easter, winning the DVS Junior class. He’s now rocking the #1 on his kart and has earned his spot in the ROK Cup World Superfinal.

KOROK is proud to support Carson as he takes on this massive opportunity. Just as we strive for top performance in our construction solutions, we see the same dedication in Carson’s approach to racing.

“When I’m in my kart, I love the feeling of going fast while being in control and being competitive with others on the track,” Carson says. “I really want to go hard and do well this year!”

The ROK Cup Superfinal is a big step for Carson as he chases his dream of becoming a professional race car driver, with aspirations to move into Supercars, Formula 1, or Indy Cars in the future. This event is his chance to show what he’s made of against the best in the world.

Supporting young talent like Carson is key to helping them reach their full potential. Every bit of backing helps him compete and perform at his best, both here and overseas. Carson’s got the talent and drive, and we’re excited to see where his journey takes him.

Join us in getting behind Carson Daly as he heads to Italy to represent New Zealand. At KOROK, we’re all about supporting our community and fostering the next generation of champions. We’re proud to be part of Carson’s journey and can’t wait to see him take on the world stage.

Keep an eye out for updates on Carson’s progress and let’s cheer him on together!

Recent Articles

Introducing COLORSTEEL® MAXAM™: The Next Generation of Steel Solutions

At KOROK, we are committed to delivering the highest quality fire and acoustic rated wall systems, and today we are excited to introduce a major upgrade in our materials. We are transitioning to the new COLORSTEEL® MAXAM™, which will replace our previously used COLORSTEEL® ENDURA® and COLORSTEEL® MAXX® ranges. This change marks a significant advancement in the technology and performance of our wall systems.

What is COLORSTEEL® MAXAM™?

COLORSTEEL® MAXAM™ combines the renowned quality and consistency of COLORSTEEL® with innovative ACTIVATE™ technology. This new single substrate product solution is designed with corrosion resistance and longevity in mind, making it suitable for most of New Zealand’s environmental conditions.

The Benefits of ACTIVATE™ Technology

• Strategic Positioning: The aluminium/zinc/magnesium compounds in the coating are strategically positioned to activate at the start of weathering, providing sacrificial protection when it is most needed.
• Robust Barrier Formation: Magnesium compounds encourage the formation of a robust barrier at cuts and scratches, slowing the rate of subsequent corrosion.
• Long-Lasting Protection: The magnesium compounds ‘activate’ the metal coating, resulting in more effective, longer-lasting sacrificial protection.

Transitioning to the Future

The introduction of COLORSTEEL® MAXAM™ reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence. By integrating this advanced material into our KOROK wall systems, we are ensuring that our products not only meet but exceed the highest standards of performance and durability. For more information on COLORSTEEL® MAXAM™ and its benefits, please contact our customer service team.

Recent Articles

KOROK Apartment Wall Solutions

The Ultimate All-in-One Solution for Fire & Acoustic Rated Intertenancy Wall Systems

For over  25 years, KOROK has been a trusted provider of high-performance fire and acoustic walls for the multi-level construction market. Now, with the introduction of the KOROK KIR high-performance intertenancy apartment wall systems, KOROK offers comprehensive solutions for seamless floor plate transitions.

Our systems integrate lift cores, riser ducts, stair cores, hallways, and apartments into one streamlined package. Experience unparalleled fire, seismic, acoustic, and safety protection with KOROK – your all-in-one solution for modern construction needs.

Simplify with KOROK: Combining Performance and Safety

Experience the perfect blend of simplicity and performance with KOROK. Our range of IT wall solutions incorporates fire protection, seismic deflection, passive safety, and acoustic efficiency, all while eliminating complex build-ups. KOROK delivers unmatched performance, safety, and simplicity for your construction needs.

Intertenancy Apartment Solution

• Early Installation
• Solid & Secure
• Tested performance
• STC rating from 55 up to 69
• Fire rating from FRR 30 to FRR 120
• Simplified program continuity
• Waste reduction with custom lengths

Read More

Wall Transition

• Tested Fire Door Solutions
• Simple transitioning for interface junctions

Corridor, Service Riser & Ducts

• Multiple wall design solutions
• Single-sided fix
• Simple passive fire service penetrations allowing for early services installation
• Programme Continuity
• Reduction in scaffolding
• Early Inspection & installation

Lift Cores

• Structural steel infills
• Intumescent coated steel connections
• Slab to Slab options
• Early fix services & lift components
• Added fall protection
• Simple penetration solutions
• Door head solutions
• Early installation & sequencing continuity

Read More

Stair Core & Scissors Stairs

• Safe exit
• Linings are optional
• Prefinished colour coated panel options
• Prefinished panel provide a cost-effective, single fixed solution
• Reduced structural steel
• Multiple installation solutions
• Programme continuity
• Small crew to install
• Lightweight simplicity
• Handrail connection

Read More

Recent Articles