Kakapo Creek Children’s Garden

Designing for connection, nature, and future generations.

Project Overview

Kakapo Creek Children’s Garden is a state-of-the-art early learning centre in the heart of Mairangi Bay, designed to accommodate up to 100 children. Its circular design, inspired by the Māori proverb Ngā Hau E Whā (The Four Winds), symbolises a meeting place for people from all walks of life.

This 450m² centre masterfully blends innovative neuroarchitecture, Japanese design principles, and natural materials to create a nurturing environment for children. The building features four interconnected classrooms, each designed for visibility and connection, and a vibrant green roof that enhances its relationship with the surrounding environment.

The centre’s location on a steep site, bordered by a creek and constrained by floodplain regulations, presented significant challenges. Chester Consultants’ Civil Engineering team collaborated with architects and stakeholders to provide solutions that optimised the site while preserving its natural beauty and functionality.

Client

Kaenan Trust

Location

Mairangi Bay, Auckland, New Zealand

Architect

Smith Architects

Completion Year

2021

Website

https://kakapocreek.co.nz/

Project Details

Key Features

Circular design creating a central meeting space inspired by Ngā Hau E Whā.
Four fully glazed classrooms allowing visibility and connection throughout the centre.
Innovative green roof using South Island grass for sustainability and integration with the natural environment.
Thoughtful design that integrates natural ventilation and lighting for health and teaching benefits.
Incorporation of timber glulam beams inspired by the Fibonacci spiral for harmony and balance.

Services Provided by Chester

Civil Engineering

Sustainability Features