Selected Project
Te Hurihanga Training & Service Centre
Given that the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway has such great historical and cultural importance, the Te Hurihanga Training and Service Centre is the product of many dedicated stakeholders who have had a hand in ensuring the carefully considered project reflects the cultural narrative and history of the Kawakawa Railway. With the support of cultural design guidance, the Bay of Islands Railway and NAX, MODE Design and Avail Pacific collaborated on the building’s design – which is quickly becoming a much-loved and highly-photographed destination. The project team worked closely with Ngāti Hine throughout the project to confirm the cultural narrative. Te Hurihanga, meaning ‘turning point’ or ‘junction’, provides an important bookend for the railway as it embarks on restoring the historic line back to Opua. The unique frontage reflects the traditional coal mining architecture of the local area, representing four separate coal miners’ cottages. The barge boards reflect the Māori heritage, whakapapa and identity of the area – and these works were completed by local artists. The colour selection was of high significance to this project, with each Resene hue intentionally and authentically chosen. The project team wanted a balanced representation of the project partners and to reflect the unique bicultural heritage of the community. The design of the building responds to the cultural narrative, not only through colour but also through the shapes and their symbolism. The Waharua Kopito or diamond shape represents courage and commitment. When the diamond shape is paired, it indicates a transition and reminds each generation to think about succession and growing capability. The Pukepuke Rau or rows of triangles represent the ‘many hills’ of the Ngāti Hine tribal area. It epitomises the many whanau and hapu within Ngāti Hine as well as many forms of leadership in a range of fields. This pepeha also highlights the concept of ‘unity through diversity’. The Moko Kauae in the centre represents the eponymous ancestress, Hineamaru and denotes the strong female leadership within Ngāti Hine. https://www.resene.co.nz/blackwhitemag/05-just-the-ticket.htm
- Category
- Public Architecture
- Location
- Auckland
- Year
- 2022
