The University of Waikato is building an innovative and versatile new facility, The Pā, which will transform the on-campus experience for students, staff, visitors and the broader community.
The Pā will provide a new main entrance to the campus, a student hub (including food outlets and social learning spaces) and a new University marae. The Pā will strengthen the overall capability of the campus for University and community events and activities.
Timeline:
- Demolition and site preparation: Summer 2019/2020
- Construction: Winter 2020 – Winter 2022
- Completion: Mid 2022
An artist impression of The Pā from an aerial view.
Conceptualising The Pā
He piringa, he āhurutanga
‘The Pā’ is a reference to the concept of community and location, signalling a concentration of strategically located and designed buildings that provide for the people within.
The Pā site is on a special part of campus, a prime location on Hillcrest Road, and it will create a welcoming and vibrant core facility on the Hamilton campus.
Features and design
The design of The Pā incorporates input from students, staff and community, with advisory groups each having opportunities to work with the architects.
The Pā site is on a special part of campus, a prime location on Hillcrest Road.
University marae and wharenui
He mana, he manaaki
Hei pupuru i te mana o Te Whare Wānanga
A new University marae complex will be located in the heart of The Pā.
The Wharenui (central meeting house) provides the form and inspiration for the entire complex. Supported by the main University reception, a generous ātea/courtyard and the central campus walkway, the Wharenui will define the University’s new face to Hillcrest Road.
Student Hub
Hei āhurutanga mō ngā ākonga
The student hub will provide spaces for students to socialise, rest, debate, eat and recharge.
It will be the year-round home of campus life for students, including:
- Bookable study and meeting spaces
- Food and beverage retail
- A generous social space with moveable furniture
- A stage for performances, events and conferences
Community and leadership spaces
He wāhi whai pūkenga, he wāhi toi, mō te hapori
The Pā will also be utilised for large events including student welcomes and performances, conferences and other celebrations and activities. The concept and design bring together:
- A main University reception and executive offices
- A refurbished space for Te Pua Wānanga ki te Ao: Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies
- Multi-function rooms for teaching and conference activities
- Spacious courtyards, easy walkways and connection points
Improving campus connectivity
Hei tūhonohono i te papa wānanga
The Pā will create connections across the Hamilton campus, closely aligning with Te Manawa (The Student Centre), and lecture theatres in S and L Blocks.
These connections, including a new lift system, will improve mobility access in the heart of the campus.
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