A Community Anchor

Moerā Neighbourhood Hub

Sector

Ngā Wāhi Hapori me Manapori
Community and Civic

Client

Niche Group

Location

Te Whanganui-a-Tara
Wellington

Services

Architectural Modular Design Development
Construction Documentation
Structural Engineering

Collaborators

Design Group Stapleton ElliotHutt City Council

Photography by

Samantha Patchay

A vibrant cornerstone of community life, the Moerā Neighbourhood Hub reimagines local engagement through thoughtful design and sustainability. Blending function, inclusivity, and innovation, it sets a new benchmark for contemporary civic spaces in Aotearoa.

With Designgroup Stapleton Elliott shaping the architectural vision, we worked closely with Niche Group to refine the design for modular construction. Preserving its original intent, we developed the concept into a fully modular solution, delivering the working drawings for Building Consent with precision and purpose.

Engraved hardwood seating reflects Haumi, the traditional Māori technique of joining structures by carefully binding separate elements together for strength and flexibility. This concept extends to the deck stairs, where carved patterns reference the interwoven forms of Haumi, visually reinforcing themes of connection and resilience. On the east wall, bespoke engravings further symbolise energy and unity, embedding cultural meaning into the fabric of the design.

The exterior embraces a refined palette of grey and white, balancing durability with a clean, modern aesthetic. Perforated metal panels introduce subtle texture, playing with light and shadow while reinforcing the building’s contemporary form. Inside, a rich spectrum of green tones softens the space, drawing inspiration from the surrounding natural environment. These earthy hues create a warm and inviting atmosphere, seamlessly connecting the hub to the community it serves.

A special acknowledgment to DGSE for their architectural vision, which shaped a space that fosters belonging and connection within the Moerā community. Another special mention to Niche Modular, whose continued innovation in modular construction is redefining the future of modern building methods. Each collaboration showcases the immense potential of offsite manufacturing in delivering high-quality, efficient, and sustainable spaces. It has been a true privilege to be part of this project.