New Zealand Excursion
Gary Wyatt, a director at Koha, recently toured around New Zealand for 2 months visiting family and friends and whilst there managed to check out some inspiring architecture and art. Gary spent 7 years living and working as an architect in Christchurch and returned after 12 years to see the changes that have occurred since the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.
A glimpse of the iconic air traffic control tower at Sydney airport upon landing looking more like a ‘helter-skelter’
This wrap-around foyer /gallery addresses the street frontage and forms a great transition and ‘break-out’ to the large exhibition spaces of the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
A great example of urban art work at the Police Station in Christchurch with a celebration of Kiwi nature on display
A clear expression of entry with this dramatic cantilevered roof form at the new bus exchange in Christchurch!
A dramatic entry space in the new public library in the Central Business District. I particularly liked the informal seating that followed the staircase where people were able to sit, read and relax.
‘Miami Vice’ features in Blenheim with this funky clothing store!
A really sensitively handled landscape design along the river in Blenheim that incorporated an amphi-theatre. An exciting and robust materials palette was incorporated
An impressive information centre was located adjacent to the historic railway station seen in the background. The new building was well-screened from the main road via dense planting
I came across this very cute railway station in Blenheim which was beautifully detailed and had stood the test of time.
We came across an impressive stack of boxes in Auckland. I must admit, I wouldn’t have fancied detailing this building but a great result!
A real gem of a building can be seen at Whanganui War memorial Centre. Celebration of the ‘International Style’.
The Sarjeant Gallery, Whanganui is a fine example of Neo-Classical design in Oamaru stone which has been beautifully refurbished
A new extension to the gallery by Warren and Mahoney is a steel and glass contemporary addition that contrasts the stone host building and is connected by a two-storey glass link.
The bridge at first floor connects the original building with the new extension and is based upon a traditional waka (boat)
A handsome colonial-style building in Wellington contrasts the more modern recent tower blocks
Another good example of graphics being used on an apartment block in Christchurch to provide relief, colour and interest.
A contemporary house at Cass Bay on the Banks Peninsula
Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, designed by Shigeru Ban, stands as a modern testament to resilience following the 2011 earthquake that damaged the Christchurch Catholic Cathedral. Constructed using innovative materials such as cardboard, polycarbonate, and shipping containers, it embodies Ban's principles of 'emergency architecture’.
The interior of the Cardboard Cathedral is characterized by its striking simplicity and innovative use of materials. The walls, composed of a series of cardboard tubes, create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while also showcasing the cathedral's unique construction techniques. Natural light pours through the large, triangular windows, casting dynamic shadows that enhance the space's spiritual quality. The open layout is designed to promote a sense of community and connection, allowing visitors to appreciate the interplay of light and structure. The minimalist aesthetic is further complemented by the harmonious integration of wooden elements, which anchor the overall design, creating a serene environment for contemplation and gathering.