132 Halsey Street is a high‑end waterfront residential development in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter, comprising 51 luxury apartments with ground‑floor retail. Designed by Athfield Architects and delivered by Haydn & Rollett, the project presented significant complexity, including reclaimed land, a multi‑slab basement below sea level, and bespoke apartment layouts within a tight urban site.
The development was instrumental in establishing the NZGBC Homestar Multi‑Residentialtool, achieving 7‑ and 8‑star ratings for both design and as‑built performance.
Supporting Efficiency on a Challenging Site
Given the constrained waterfront location and concurrent construction activity across Wynyard Quarter, efficient material handling and installation were critical. The lightweight nature of KOROK panels eased transport to upper levels and simplified on‑site handling, particularly beneficial in a multi‑storey environment with limited laydown space.
Minimal on‑site modification requirements further reduced labour time and potential delays, supporting Haydn & Rollett’s need to problem‑solve effectively while maintaining a high standard of finish throughout the project.
KOROK Technical Contribution
KOROK supplied fire and acoustic rated wall systems for critical building infrastructure, including lift shafts, risers and ducts, where performance, efficiency and buildability were paramount.
KOROK® 78mm panels are precision roll‑formed from high‑quality zinc‑coated steel meeting AS/NZS 1397:2001, with a 0.4 mm base metal thickness and Z275 coating, enclosing a lightweight aerated concrete core. With a nominal weight of just 10.2 kg per lineal metre, the panels provided an ideal balance of strength, durability and handling efficiency. This lightweight yet robust construction made the panels ideal for multi‑storey installation in a constrained waterfront environment.
Together with neighbouring developments, 132 Halsey Street played a pivotal role in shaping the NZGBC Homestar Multi‑Residential tool, achieving 7‑ and 8‑star Homestar ratings across both design and as‑built categories. The integration of high‑performance building systems—including KOROK’s fire and acoustic solutions—contributed to the project’s overall environmental and technical success.
Today, 132 Halsey stands as one of Auckland’s most exclusive waterfront residential addresses: a development that engages seamlessly with its public realm, delivers exceptional living environments, and sets a new benchmark for sustainable, high‑quality urban living.
Project Maunga is the major redevelopment of Taranaki Base Hospital, delivering future‑focused healthcare facilities for the Taranaki region. The project sets new benchmarks for healthcare design, targeting Zero Energy and Zero Carbon certification through the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), while maintaining the rigorous fire, acoustic, and infection‑control standards required in a hospital environment.
Year: 2023
Location: New Plymouth
Client: Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand (Taranaki)
Designed by Warren and Mahoney Architects, This project challenges traditional perceptions of hospital environments. The single‑level building prioritises accessibility, patient dignity, and clinical efficiency, while feeling more like a community clinic than a hospital.
After accounting for carbon‑sequestering materials, the building achieves a net upfront embodied carbon of –126 kg CO₂e/m², making it one of the first healthcare facilities globally to achieve a net‑negative carbon outcome.
Why KOROK® Was Chosen
KOROK® systems delivered the required fire resistance and acoustic performance for lift shafts, risers, and ducts, supporting patient safety, comfort, and regulatory compliance in a healthcare environment, while also enhancing construction efficiency. The system contributed to reduced construction time, and minimised programme risk.
The KOROK® 78 mm Galv Panel offered several advantages aligned with the project’s requirements:
Fire and acoustic performance: Providing compliant fire separation and acoustic control essential for hospital service zones.
Lightweight, high‑performance construction: Precision roll‑formed from AS/NZS 1397:2001 compliant zinc‑coated steel with a lightweight aerated concrete core, delivering strength at a nominal weight of just 10.2 kg per lineal metre.
Efficient installation in confined spaces: Single‑side installation reduced the need for internal scaffolding within shafts, improving safety and construction efficiency.
Reduced programme risk: Faster installation and minimal on‑site modification supported delivery within a complex, live hospital environment.
Outcome
The integration of KOROK® fire and acoustic rated wall systems supported the delivery of a world‑leading healthcare facility – one that combines sustainability leadership, patient‑centred design, and robust technical performance. At Taranaki Base Hospital, KOROK® has contributed to a building that is not only safe and durable, but also aligned with the project’s wider vision of resilience, efficiency, and long‑term environmental responsibility.
The Te Iwitahi – Whangārei Civic Centre was conceived as a gateway project for Whangārei, reflecting multicultural themes, Tikanga Māori, and a transparent form to embody democracy in action. The four-storey building centralises council services, bringing together community, customer-facing functions, and staff workplaces in a single hub.
With a design anchored by a striking light-filled atrium, flexible open-plan workspaces, and biophilic design principles, the Civic Centre has become a vibrant, welcoming environment for both staff and community.
KOROK is proud to have supplied our fire and acoustic-rated wall systems to a project that has already achieved national recognition and set a benchmark for civic architecture in New Zealand.
Award: NZIA WESTERN ARCHITECTURE AWARDS 2024 – WINNER (Commercial ARCHITECTURE) ; NATIONAL COMMERCIAL AWARDS – Supreme winner, National category winner, GOLD AWARD & Value award 2024
KOROK’s Role
KOROK was proud to contribute to this award-winning project by supplying over 500m² of our fire and acoustic-rated wall panels. Our systems were installed across all lift shafts, risers, and ducts, delivering the critical fire safety and noise control performance the building required. These elements are essential in large civic projects, where high volumes of staff and community members move through the building daily. By providing a lightweight, robust, and compliant wall system, KOROK helped ensure safety, comfort, and efficiency throughout the construction process.
The Outcome
The Whangārei Civic Centre is now recognised not only for its architectural excellence but also for the way it serves the community. For KOROK, being part of such a landmark civic development showcases the reliability of our systems in high-performance, large-scale projects. Our involvement demonstrates how KOROK panels provide trusted solutions for critical infrastructure, meeting stringent fire and acoustic requirements while supporting project efficiency.
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
✔ Superior Fire Protection
Up to 120-minute FRR (Fire Resistance Ratings) for life-saving passive fire containment.
✔Acoustic Excellence
Helps achieve compliance with hospital acoustic standards, improving privacy and patient comfort.
Engineered seismic clips and deflection heads for movement-tolerant, post-event integrity.
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.
For Designers & Specifiers
For Construction Companies
Reduced linings and complexity in wall construction
Comprehensive tested systems incorporating fire, acoustic, and seismic performance.
Tested penetration & services applications.
Solid and secure.
Simplified design detail with tested performance.
Specification support from day one.
Faster installation with fewer resource
Reduced scaffolding and fall protection
Simplify construction and fast-track compliance.
Minimise waste with made-to-measure panels
Earlier operational access
Expert installation guidance with on-site training.
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
Expert Technical Support & Documentation
Sales & Specification Support
Estimation & Pricing
Made-to-Measure, Order Support
Installation & Training Support
National Logistics Service
PowerPoint presentations
Case studies
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.
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.
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® 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
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.