Integrating Sustainable Architecture with Cultural Storytelling

Paparoa Visitor Centre

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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
Timber
Applications
Feature Ceilings
Sectors
Cultural
Government
Architect
Sheppard and Rout

Builder
Naylor Love
Location
Punakaiki, New Zealand
Completion
2024
Photographer
Jason Mann
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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

 

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Product Specifications

Exterior

Product

Click-on Battens

Material

Timber

Profile

Dome, 40mm x 30mm

Species

Australian Ash

Track

Suspended Ceiling Mounting Track

Finish

Clear oil

Outdoor aluminium screens

Product

Click-on Battens

Material

Aluminium

Profile

Tube, 50mm

Spacing

25mm

Track

Slimline mounting track

Finish

Anodised, Dulux Electro Medium Bronze Flat

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