KOROK is proud to have contributed to one of Auckland’s most distinctive new developments — the Indigo Hotel and Apartments at 51 Albert Street. This iconic project brings together a 4.5-star lifestyle hotel, luxury branded residences, and vibrant food and beverage offerings, all within a uniquely challenging site: a slender 41-storey tower rising from a historic 1912 heritage façade.
Designed by Scott Carver and Dalman Architects and delivered by ICON Construction, the Indigo Hotel and Apartments is a shining example of how careful planning, construction innovation, and respect for heritage can work hand in hand to create a new city landmark.
The development’s highly constrained inner-city site presented several key construction challenges:
A tight building footprint within a heritage-listed façade.
Stakeholder sensitivities, with close proximity to neighbouring residents, businesses, and the historic St Patrick’s Cathedral.
The need for high productivity and precision construction techniques on a vertical build of this scale.
ICON Construction’s advanced project management systems and meticulous construction methodologies ensured these challenges were met head-on, delivering an exceptionally efficient build process.
KOROK’s Solution
To meet the stringent fire and acoustic performance requirements across the tower’s external walls, risers, and duct systems, KOROK supplied our 78mm fire and acoustic rated panel system.
Our panels were selected for their:
Lightweight nature, critical for high-rise construction.
Exceptional fire protection performance for vertical service penetrations and separation zones.
Superior acoustic insulation, ensuring a premium experience for both hotel guests and apartment residents.
Rapid installation advantages, helping ICON maintain construction momentum within a tight delivery program.
As a pre-finished system, KOROK panels also contributed to reducing on-site finishing work, a key benefit on a project with constrained site logistics and limited laydown space.
Project Highlights
The Indigo Hotel and Apartments development stands out not only for its scale but for its storytelling and celebration of Auckland’s evolving identity.
The hotel interiors creatively blend industrial elements with heritage materials such as exposed brick, reclaimed timber, and vintage automotive references.
The modern tower’s guest rooms maintain a refined industrial feel, incorporating subtle local cultural references that connect guests to the heart of the city.
The podium revitalizes Auckland’s historic entertainment district, contributing new life and energy to a growing cultural hub.
At KOROK, we are proud that our systems play a quiet but vital role in supporting developments like Indigo Hotel and Apartments — delivering life-safety, acoustic comfort, and buildability for landmark projects that help shape the future of our cities.
At KOROK, we’re proud to have contributed to 90 Devonport Road—a pioneering project that now holds the title of New Zealand’s largest mass timber office building. Designed by Warren and Mahoney and developed by Willis Bond in partnership with Tauranga City Council, this landmark project redefines what’s possible for sustainable commercial construction in Aotearoa.
As part of the build, 78mm KOROK® fire and acoustic rated panels were specified and installed for external wall applications, contributing to the project’s high-performance envelope while supporting the mass timber structure with lightweight, resilient protection. Installed by Tika Interiors Limited, our panels were chosen for their proven reliability, fast installation time, and ability to support sustainable outcomes without compromising safety or acoustic control.
The goal was ambitious—a 100% reduction in embodied carbon, with a design targeting a 6 Star Green Star rating (the highest possible), alongside NABERSNZ and WELL Building Standard benchmarks. The result? A building that not only showcases natural beauty through its exposed timber columns and warm finishes, but one that’s genuinely future-ready.
By prioritising timber and selecting high-performance materials like KOROK®, the project team avoided designing in unnecessary complexity or carbon-intensive solutions. This thoughtful approach resulted in a cost-neutral, repeatable commercial model that leads the charge for the next generation of green buildings in New Zealand.
Building for People and Performance
Built by LT McGuinness, this 10,400sqm building now brings together the entire Tauranga City Council administration team under one roof for the first time since 2014. The space fosters collaboration, connection, and a shared commitment to a sustainable future.
“We wanted to push the boundaries to design a wholly sustainable, future-focused workplace which maximises the use of natural materials such as the exposed timber columns which celebrate the uniqueness of the building.” — Anne Tolley, Chair of the Commission
KOROK’s Role
KOROK’s lightweight fire and acoustic rated wall systems have been engineered to complement mass timber construction by reducing structural loads, supporting acoustic separation, and accelerating installation programs. On a project of this size and vision, our 78mm panels provided the performance needed without compromising the environmental goals or design integrity.
As advocates for sustainable innovation in construction, we are proud to see our systems play a role in delivering landmark projects like 90 Devonport Road. It’s another example of how the KOROK system supports smarter, safer, and more sustainable buildings.
KOROK® Fire and Acoustic Wall Systems at Catalina Bay Apartments
KOROK Building Systems played a key role in the construction of the Catalina Bay Apartments in Auckland, supplying our high-performance fire and acoustic wall systems. This 13-level waterfront development, built by LT McGuinness for client Willis Bond, consists of 73 luxury apartments across two towers and nine townhouses on a concrete podium. Designed by Architectus, the project integrates sustainability, history, and high-end living, offering panoramic views of Waitemata Harbour.
The Catalina Bay Apartments were built on a historically significant site, once home to a Royal New Zealand Air Force base. The design of the development pays homage to this heritage while providing modern, high-quality residences.
Despite construction challenges such as extreme weather events and pandemic-related delays, the project was successfully completed in July 2024, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the client, consultants, and contractors. More than 2,200 workers contributed to this impressive 28-month build.
KOROK® – Setting the Standard in Fire and Acoustic Protection
KOROK is proud to have contributed to this landmark residential development, providing solutions that ensure safety, comfort, and efficiency. Our fire and acoustic wall systems continue to set the benchmark for high-performance construction in New Zealand’s premium apartment projects.
KOROK supplied all fire and acoustic wall systems for the project, including:
Lift Shafts, Risers, and Ducts
Intertenancy Apartment Walls
Our systems were chosen to enhance fire safety, acoustic insulation, and construction efficiency in this high-end residential development.
KOROK® for Lift Shafts, Risers, and Ducts
KOROK® panels provided an efficient and robust solution for the lift shafts, risers, and ducts at Catalina Bay, offering multiple advantages:
Single-side installation: Eliminates the need for scaffolding inside shafts, accelerating the build process.
Superior fire and acoustic performance: Ensuring compliance with New Zealand’s strict building codes for safety and comfort.
KOROK® for Intertenancy Apartment Walls
Each apartment in Catalina Bay was designed for privacy and luxury. KOROK® intertenancy walls played a crucial role in achieving this by delivering:
Proven fire-rated protection and acoustic insulation, ensuring a safe and peaceful living environment.
Solid wall construction, enhancing security and long-term durability.
Faster installation times, reducing project timelines and labor costs.
Sustainable solutions, minimizing construction waste and contributing to the development’s Homestar-7 sustainability rating.
Resources for Design, Compliance, and Installation
KOROK® provides a comprehensive library of technical resources to support designers, architects, engineers, and installers in achieving compliant, high‑performance fire and acoustic wall solutions. Access detailed guidance on installation, seismic performance, noise control, junction protection, fire‑rated components, and system selection all in one place.
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.
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.
KOROK® provides a full range of engineered fire and acoustic wall systems designed for New Zealand’s residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Our systems are rigorously tested, easy to install, and built to meet the latest compliance requirements. Explore our solutions for intertenancy walls, external façades, cinemas, industrial spaces, lift shafts, risers, ducts, and scissor stair applications.
KOROK® has 2-way fire-rated wall systems for fire separation of Scissor Stairs or any Stairs.
KOROK® Scissor Stair Systems are proprietary, non-loadbearing, two-way fire-rated wall systems designed to provide fire and acoustic separation between independent stair flights within scissor stair configurations or other stair arrangements.
The system utilises 78mm thick interlocking KOROK® panels installed between two independent stairstringers to form a continuous fire-resisting barrier. Panels may be oriented vertically, horizontally, or in combination to suit stair geometry and construction sequencing requirements.
KOROK® Scissor Stair Systems are constructed using 78mm thick panels comprising roll-formed galvanised or colour steel outer shells with an aerated concrete core and interlocking tongue-and-groove profiles, forming a continuous, tightly sealed wall plane that reduces the risk of acoustic leakage between stair flights. The system is non-combustible and provides two-way fire resistancewhen exposed from either side.In fire conditions:
Horizontal fire resistance is achieved through a quadrilateral fire-resistant section formed between the two independent stairs
Vertical fire resistance is achieved through the wall-to-stair stringer boundary condition
KOROK® Scissor Stair Systems provide independently tested Fire Resistance Ratings up to –/120/120 and –/60/60 depending on configuration, while the 78mm interlocking panels deliver acoustic performance up to STC 76, meeting or exceeding NZBC Clause G6 requirements through their aerated concrete core and tightly sealed joint geometry.
Code Compliance Highlights
Clause B1 – Structure: Meets requirements for loads arising from self-weight, earthquake, wind, impact, creep and shrinkage
Clause B2 – Durability: Under normal dry internal conditions, serviceable life in excess of 50 years
Clause C3 – Fire Affecting Areas Beyond the Source: Provides passive fire protection to control spread of fire
Clause C6 – Structural Stability: Designers must ensure supporting primary elements achieve at least the same fire rating as the KOROK® system when required by fire cell configuration
Clause F2 – Hazardous Building Materials: System does not present a health hazard
Clause G6 – Airborne and Impact Sound: Meets and exceeds minimum airborne sound requirements
Key Performance Ratings
Proven Fire Separation: Provides up to –/120/120 FRR in scissor stair configurations, with independently tested performance
High Acoustic Performance: STC ratings up to 76, supporting high-performance multi-level and commercial buildings
Non-Combustible Construction: Steel outer shell with aerated concrete core.
Lightweight yet Structurally Robust: High stiffness-to-weight ratio with defined ULS and SLS capacities.
Design Flexibility: Panels may be installed vertically, horizontally, or in combination, enabling adaptation to varying stair geometries
Durability: Service life exceeding 50 years under normal dry internal conditions
NZBC-Compliant Passive Fire Protection for KOROK® Wall Systems
When it comes to passive fire penetrations, KOROK® leads the way with innovative solutions that ensure fire safety without compromising functionality.
At KOROK®, we are committed to providing fire-rated wall systems that prioritize safety, durability, and performance. Our advanced KOROK® panels are specifically designed to allow seamless integration of passive fire penetrations, including service ducting and pipes, while maintaining the structural and fire integrity of the wall.
What Are Passive Fire Penetrations?
Passive fire penetrations are openings or pathways in fire-rated walls or floors that allow services such as plumbing, electrical cables, or ductwork to pass through. These penetrations are essential for building functionality but must be carefully designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. KOROK® panels are engineered to make the creation and sealing of these penetrations straightforward and effective, ensuring compliance with strict fire safety standards.
At KOROK®, we understand that ensuring fire safety goes beyond the wall system itself – it’s also about how penetrations and services are detailed. That’s why we’ve collaborated with leading experts in passive fire protection to develop a suite of manuals that provide fully tested, NZBC-compliant solutions for penetrations in KOROK® fire-rated wall systems.
Each manual has been developed in partnership with industry specialists and contains tested configurations, installation guidance, and compliance references, making it easier for designers, engineers, and contractors to select the right firestop solutions.
Our firestop manuals, developed with industry partners, provide tested and NZBC-compliant solutions for service penetrations in KOROK® fire-rated wall systems.
Easy Formations for Penetrations: KOROK® panels simplify the creation of openings for ducting and plumbing. The lightweight yet robust design makes it easy to form precise and efficient penetrations without compromising fire safety or wall integrity.
Maintained Wall Integrity: Even with multiple passive fire penetrations, KOROK® panels ensure the overall wall system retains its fire rating. This is crucial for preventing fire and smoke from spreading across compartments in a building.
Versatile Applications: Whether your project involves commercial spaces, residential apartments, or industrial facilities, KOROK® passive fire penetrations provide a reliable and efficient solution tailored to meet your needs.
Compliance with Building Codes: KOROK® panels are rigorously tested and meet or exceed New Zealand’s building code requirements for passive fire protection. This gives architects, engineers, and builders confidence in the safety and performance of their projects.
CFS-C P 50/1.5" Fire Collar + CP606 Acrylic Sealant
-/120/60
Hilti
40mm ND uPVC Pipe. Refer to pages 28-30
40mm
uPVC
CFS-C P 50/1.5" Fire Collar + CP606 Acrylic Sealant + 13mm Plasterboard Patch
-/120/90
Hilti
50mm ND uPVC Pipe. Refer to pages 28-30
50mm
uPVC
CFS-C P 63/2.0" Fire Collar + CP606 Acrylic Sealant
-/120/90
Hilti
50mm ND uPVC Pipe. Refer to pages 28-30
50mm
uPVC
CFS-C P 63/2.0" Fire Collar + CP606 Acrylic Sealant + 13mm Plasterboard Patch
-/120/120
Hilti
65mm ND uPVC Pipe. Refer to pages 28-30
65mm
uPVC
CFS-C P 75/2.5" Fire Collar + CP606 Acrylic Sealant
-/120/90
Hilti
65mm ND uPVC Pipe. Refer to pages 28-30
65mm
uPVC
CFS-C P 75/2.5" Fire Collar + CP606 Acrylic Sealant + 13mm Plasterboard Patch
-/120/120
Hilti
80mm ND uPVC Pipe. Refer to pages 28-30
80mm
uPVC
CFS-C P 90/3" Fire Collar + CP606 Acrylic Sealant
-/120/90
Hilti
80mm ND uPVC Pipe. Refer to pages 28-30
80mm
uPVC
CFS-C P 90/3" Fire Collar + CP606 Acrylic Sealant + 13mm Plasterboard Patch
-/120/120
Hilti
Cable Bundle ≤ 36mm Dia. Any combination of Telecommunication cables, Cat5/6/7/8, Fiber Optic cables,RG6 Quad Shield Coax or TPS 2C+E up to 2.5mm2. Refer to pages 13-14
Max. 36mm
Cable
CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant
-/120/60
Hilti
Cable Bundle ≤ 36mm Dia. Any combination of Telecommunication cables, Cat5/6/7/8, Fiber Optic cables,RG6 Quad Shield Coax or TPS 2C+E up to 2.5mm2. Refer to pages 13-14
Max. 36mm
Cable
CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant + CFS-P BA Putty Bandage
-/120/90
Hilti
Cable Tray up to 600mm Wide with 9 x 400mm2 XLPE/PVC or PVC/PVC Sheath/Insulated Single Core Copper or Aluminum Power Cables. Refer to pages 21-27
Cable
2 x Layers CP670 Coated Board + CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant + CFS-P BA Putty Bandage
-/60/60
Hilti
Cable Tray up to 600mm Wide with AS1530.4 Standard D1 XLPE/PVC or PVC/PVC Sheath/Insulated Power Cables Cable Sets. Refer to pages 21-27
Cable
2 x Layers CP670 Coated Board + CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant + CFS-P BA Putty Bandage
-/120/90
Hilti
Cable Tray up to 600mm Wide with AS1530.4 Standard D2 Telecommunication Cable Sets. Refer to pages 21-27
Cable
2 x Layers CP670 Coated Board + CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant + CFS-P BA Putty Bandage
-/90/60
Hilti
Up to 10 of Quad Shield Coax Cables. Refer to pages 13-14
Cable
CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant + CFS-P BA Putty Bandage
-/120/90
Hilti
Up to 16 of Telecommunication cables, Cat5/6/7/8 & Fiber Optic cables. Refer to pages 13-14
Cable
CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant
-/120/90
Hilti
Up to 16 of Telecommunication cables, Cat5/6/7/8 & Fiber Optic cables. Refer to pages 13-14
Cable
CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant + CFS-P BA Putty Bandage
-/120/120
Hilti
Up to 8 of TPS 2C+E up to 2.5mm2. Refer to pages 13-14
CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant
-/120/60
Hilti
Up to 8 of TPS 2C+E up to 2.5mm2. Refer to pages 13-14
CP611a / CFS-IS Intumescent Sealant + CFS-P BA Putty Bandage