KOROK® Fire and Acoustic Solutions Elevate a World-Class Arts Venue
The Waikato Regional Theatre is set to become a landmark for Hamilton and the wider Waikato region, bringing world-class performing arts, cultural vibrancy, and community engagement to the city centre. After six years of planning and collaboration, construction began in November 2021, with completion expected in 2025. KOROK® was proud to contribute to this transformational project, providing innovative fire and acoustic wall solutions that underpin both safety and sound quality.
KOROK® Contribution: Cinema-Grade Walls for Exceptional Performance
KOROK supplied 3,000 m² of our 78mm Galv Panel for the theatre, incorporating our specialised Cinema Systems designed specifically for performing arts venues. Each KOROK® 78mm Galv Panel is rollformed from zinc-coated steel strips, featuring a 0.4 mm base metal thickness and Z275 zinc coating, with an aerated concrete core weighing approximately 10.2 kg per lineal metre. These panels combine lightweight construction with superior acoustic and fire performance, making them ideal for auditoriums and rehearsal spaces.
Our systems deliver superior soundproofing, ensuring minimal sound transmission between performance spaces, enhancing the experience for audiences while meeting stringent fire safety standards. With a proven track record across cinema and theatre projects, KOROK® provides trusted, reliable solutions for both fire protection and acoustic performance.
Supporting a Heritage-Led, Community-Focused Project
The Waikato Regional Theatre has been designed as an arts-led urban regeneration project, reconnecting Hamilton’s city centre with the Waikato River. The theatre integrates the retained façade of the historic Hamilton Hotel, incorporates heritage elements and native timbers from the original building, and will feature a 1,300-seat lyric theatre capable of operating in both theatre and orchestra modes.
By installing KOROK® fire- and acoustic-rated walls, the project benefits from enhanced safety for visitors and staff, as well as controlled acoustics critical to both performances and audience enjoyment. KOROK’s lightweight, prefabricated systems complemented the architect’s use of mass timber for the auditorium roof, blade walls, catwalks, and bleachers, supporting the project’s ambitious programme while delivering practical fire and acoustic solutions.
Why KOROK® Was Chosen
Hamilton’s new theatre required walls that could handle high acoustic demands, strict fire compliance, and fast, efficient installation. KOROK® provided:
Proven Acoustic Performance: Minimal sound transfer between spaces, delivering an immersive and high-quality performance experience.
Efficient Installation: Lightweight panels with clip-together simplicity allowed for rapid assembly on a complex, multi-material project.
By integrating KOROK® systems into the Waikato Regional Theatre, the venue benefits from both technical performance and long-term reliability, supporting the vision of a cultural hub that will serve Hamilton and the Waikato region for decades.
Building a Legacy with KOROK®
From safeguarding audience experiences to supporting the acoustic integrity of performances, KOROK® has played a key role in making the Waikato Regional Theatre a safe, world-class venue. This project underscores KOROK’s expertise in delivering fire and acoustic solutions for complex, high-profile buildings, from cinemas to performance spaces, helping communities thrive through innovative and trusted wall systems.
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
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.
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.
The Bayfair Cinemas project is part of a $115 million development that marked the introduction of United Cinemas to New Zealand. United Cinemas, a prestigious Australian-owned chain, has been a leader in the industry since 1987. Known for its luxury cinema experience, United Cinemas operates 46 theatres across Australia, and Bayfair Cinemas in Mount Maunganui is its first venture in New Zealand. The complex includes seven state-of-the-art screens, featuring the region’s largest screen with Dolby Atmos Digital Sound, creating an unmatched cinematic experience.
KOROK® systems were selected for this project to provide industry-leading acoustic performance. Our 78mm KOROK® panels were installed throughout the cinema complex, ensuring superior soundproofing between screens and public areas. This acoustic control is essential for a seamless and immersive movie experience, eliminating external noise and maintaining sound quality within each theatre.
KOROK® is recognized as the number one choice for soundproofing in New Zealand cinemas, thanks to our ability to deliver fire-resistant, durable, and cost-efficient wall systems that also meet the high acoustic demands of modern theatres.
Why Choose KOROK® for Cinemas?
Superior Acoustic Control: Our panels are engineered to significantly reduce noise transmission between spaces.
Fire-Resistant Performance: KOROK® systems comply with stringent fire safety regulations, ideal for public spaces like cinemas.
Cost-Efficient Installation: KOROK® panels can be installed quickly, reducing both time and labor costs.
The Bayfair Cinemas project is a showcase of KOROK®’s commitment to delivering top-tier acoustic and fire-rated solutions for high-performance environments like cinemas.
Hoyts Cinema Complex, – KOROK® Wall Systems in Action
The Ormiston Hoyts Cinema Complex is part of a large shopping mall development in South Auckland’s Flat Bush. With eight theatres, the project required effective soundproofing to enhance the cinema experience.
KOROK® Panels for Acoustic Performance
The theatre walls feature a double layer of 78mm KOROK® panels with a gap filled with acoustic batts, designed to prevent sound from travelling between theatres. This setup ensures clear and uninterrupted sound for moviegoers.
KOROK® wall systems are known for their acoustic properties, making them a common choice for cinemas in New Zealand. These panels help manage sound, offer fire protection, and are straightforward to install, meeting both safety and performance needs. For more information about how KOROK® can support your next project, contact us today.
KOROK® 78mm galv panels are precision rollformed from high-quality zinc-coated steel strips. The steel used for our shells meets the AS/NZS1397:2001 standard, ensuring consistent strength and durability. Each panel features a base metal thickness of 0.4 mm B.M.T. with a Z275 zinc coating, enclosing a lightweight aerated concrete core. This combination delivers a nominal weight of just 10.2 kg per lineal metre, making KOROK® panels easy to handle and install while maintaining exceptional structural performance.
Our panels are designed for versatility and high performance, offering superior fire and acoustic ratings for a wide range of applications. They provide fast, efficient installation with minimal on-site modifications, reducing labour costs and program delays. The lightweight nature of KOROK® panels also eases transport and handling, particularly on multi-storey construction projects.
Backed by over 20 years of experience, KOROK® panels are BRANZ-appraised, Kiwi-owned, and widely trusted across New Zealand for projects ranging from residential developments to complex commercial constructions. Our systems are designed to simplify installation, maximise safety, and deliver long-lasting performance, making KOROK® the preferred choice for builders, architects, and developers seeking reliable fire and acoustic wall solutions.
Engineered for Ultimate Sound Isolation and Code-Compliant Fire Safety
KOROK® is the leading provider of fire and acoustic rated protection for cinemas across New Zealand. Our systems are specifically designed to deliver superior soundproofing and fire resistance, making them the ideal choice for cinema construction and renovation projects. Indeed, when considering fire and acoustic rated solutions, our KOROK® systems stand out for cinemas.
Why Choose KOROK® for Cinemas?
Superior Soundproofing: Our fire-rated wall systems ensure minimal sound transmission between auditoriums, enhancing the cinema experience along with fire and acoustic protection for cinemas.
High Fire Resistance: KOROK® systems provide reliable fire protection, meeting New Zealand’s building code requirements for safety, a crucial aspect for cinemas.
Proven Performance: With years of successful installations, KOROK® has become the trusted name in cinema construction, providing unmatched fire and acoustic solutions that cinemas can rely on for both safety and sound quality.
The internal side lined with 1 layer 19mm GIB Fyreline® or acceptable GIB® alternatives or 2 layers 10mm GIB Fyreline® or acceptable GIB® alternatives.
Longrun profiled steel cladding system as selected.
The internal side lined with 1 layer 19mm GIB Fyreline® or acceptable GIB® alternatives or 2 layers 10mm GIB Fyreline® or acceptable GIB® alternatives. Longrun profiled steel cladding system as selected
1 layer 10mm GIB® Standard plasterboard or equivalent each side
Acoustic insulation must be either Autex GreenStuf SW90 or Pink Batts R 2.2 each side.
KOROK® metal fire flashing is installed to the top C-track.
KOROK® metal KIT flashing is installed to horizontal joints.
90mm steel or timber frame each side
86mm overall. Framing not to touch KOROK® panel or fire flashing
KOROK® metal fire flashing is installed to the top C-track. KOROK® metal KIT flashing is installed to horizontal joints.
1 layer 10mm GIB® Standard plasterboard or equivalent each side
Acoustic insulation must be either Autex GreenStuf SW90 or Pink Batts R 2.2 each side.
KOROK® metal fire flashing is installed to the top C-track.
KOROK® metal KIT flashing is installed to horizontal joints.
90mm steel or timber frame each side
80mm overall. Framing not to touch KOROK® panel or fire flashing
KOROK® metal fire flashing is installed to the top C-track. KOROK® metal KIT flashing is installed to horizontal joints.
KOROK® metal fire flashing is installed to the top C-track OR 13 mm GIB Fyreline® or equivalent x 120 mm strip with sealant is fixed at 250 mm centres top and bottom, using 6g x 32 mm drywall screws.
