FROM EARTH TO SKY

For more than 40 years, the New Zealand Maori

Arts and Crafts Institute in Rotorua has kept Maori crafts alive, and informed and entertained generations of tourists. But tourist expectations have risen dramatically, and the buildings were ready for refurbishment.

The Institute's board decided to offer geothermal, Maori culture, and Maori arts and crafts experiences under the Te Puia brand. The project comprises new weaving and carving schools, interpretive displays, and retail facilities in keeping with the existing marae and geothermal valley. Driving the project was the need to provide detailed, interactive information for tourists, says Te Puia's chief executive officer Anthony Cox.

"The new interactive visitors' gallery, with its 3D touch-screen facilities, allows tourists to explore the valley's myths in as much detail as they wish," he says.

Local Maori leaders were consulted extensively and Maori cosmology infuses the architecture. Cox believes the entrance, depicting the 12 Maori heavens, could well become the iconic image for Te Puia.

Construction on a site of geothermal, archaeological and cultural importance was always going to be a challenge, says Mark Bramley of project managers MPM.

"It was a diverse project, which involved balancing the wishes of many parties, each with their own specific interest in the outcome of the project," he says.

MPM managed the budget, construction process and resources, while Creative Spaces provided architectural services. Architect Harry Street says the project creates a journey for visitors.

"A clear path through the formal entry, interpretive gallery, marae, geothermal valley, schools, arts and crafts galleries and retail areas gives visitors the chance to explore and assess the exhibits thoroughly. Concrete and timber are the buildings' dominant materials, supporting the sense that this is a place of great cultural and spiritual significance," he says.

For details, contact Te Puia, phone (07) 348 9047. Creative Spaces, phone (09) 358 3777. MPM Projects, phone (09) 303 9420.

Story by: Trendsideas