Integrating Sustainable Architecture with Cultural Storytelling

Paparoa Visitor Centre

The Dolomite Point Redevelopment Project transforms one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions into a world-class, sustainably designed visitor experience. Located in Punakaiki, home to the famous Pancake Rocks, the new Paparoa Visitor Centre balances environmental sensitivity, cultural storytelling, and long-term resilience.

Product

Click-on Battens

Materials

Australian Ash

Architecture Rooted in Place and Purpose

A Green Roof and Natural Integration

Designed by Sheppard & Rout Architects, the Paparoa Visitor Centre is built to integrate naturally with the surrounding environment. A green roof planted with native flora and a footprint carefully shaped to protect existing nīkau palms reflect a strong commitment to low-impact construction and sustainable land use.

Cultural Significance and Community Engagement

Incorporating Māori cultural storytelling was central to the project. The Sheppard and Rout design team worked closely with Ngāti Waewae to embed local narratives, symbols, and artworks throughout the space. This collaboration ensures the Visitor Centre is not just a building, but a living expression of the region’s cultural identity.

Refined Materiality and Spatial Rhythm

Inside the Centre, our timber Click-on Battens are a key feature of the ceiling design, extending across the sprawling interior to create a consistent and refined visual rhythm. The warm tones and natural texture of the timber contribute to a clean, cohesive finish that complements the building’s broader material palette.

Sustainable Material Selection

The use of locally appropriate, responsibly sourced hardwood supports the project’s carbon-conscious design goals, contributing toward its ambitions for double carbon-zero certification.

Specification Details – Sprawling Ceiling Battens

Product	Click-on Battens
Material	Timber
Species	Australian Ash
Profile	Dome, 40mm x 30mm
Coating	Clear oil
Mounting	Suspended Ceiling Mounting Track

Enhancing New Zealand’s West Coast with Sustainable Architecture

The Dolomite Point Redevelopment Project sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism infrastructure in New Zealand. Through thoughtful integration of natural materials, green building strategies, and meaningful indigenous collaboration, the project offers a blueprint for public architecture that honours both people and place.

Project Summary

Architect

Sheppard and Rout

Builder

Naylor Love

Installer

Apex Interiors

Date of Completion

2024

Sector

Cultural

Location

Punakaiki, New Zealand

Photographer

Jason Mann