Henderson Service Centre & Transport Interchange

Client:
Auckland Council (formerly Waitakere City Council)

Location:
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland

Completion:
2006

Size:
13,400m²

Project Value:
$39m

Designer Partner
Athfield Architects

Contact:
Malcolm Bowes

The Henderson Service Centre (formerly Waitakere Civic Centre) seeks to optimise the area’s sustainable design objectives by integrating new energy efficient Council facilities with a new transport interchange.

Proximity to good public transport and good amenities for staff were important considerations for the selection of the site for the centre.

Sited adjacent to the North Auckland Rail Line, the Centre comprises three main elements: the Civic Wing containing the Council Chamber, Councillor’s facilities and the Directorate; the Administration Wing containing public interface facilities and open-plan office space for council staff; and the Link element which forms the main public access and pedestrian connection to the new rail station and Henderson CBD.

Energy efficiency has been achieved with measures such as extensive sun screening, high levels of thermal insulation, integrated air floors and extensive use of natural daylighting. Materials have been carefully chosen from sustainable and recyclable sources. Water use has been minimised and storm water is treated on site through a green roof and rain gardens prior to entering the public system.

Within the Administration Wing a grand staircase connects the staff areas across a five storey void discouraging lift usage and promoting staff interaction and socialisation.

Works by a number of artists are included in the building with a focus on public areas. In particular, the cultural heritage of the local iwi, Te Kawerau ā Maki, is expressed throughout the project, particularly where the form of a gourd, a common theme of local legend and carving, is incorporated into the design of the Council Chamber space.

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