NGĀ MIHI…

The timber diagrid structure inside and out of Te Whare Hononga was designed to resemble a woven kono (food basket). The positioning and form of Te Whare Hononga honours old sight lines to Paritutu and to Pūkākā, and the patterning and structure of the whare is designed to reflect two peoples coming together with the intention to reconcile. The waharua kopito taniko patterning represents the change that occurs when people or events cross.

Building on these themes, Tennent Brown Architects brought this concept to life, using their expertise to interpret the cultural and contextual aspirations in the design.

Awards

  • 2024 NZIA Branch Award

  • 2024 Interior Awards Winner - Civic

ARCHITECTURE

Story Inc was engaged to create the visitor experience for Te Whare Hononga that explores conflict and peace-making through artworks, interactive touchscreens, video, and interior design. The process was grounded in ongoing consultation with mana whenua Ngāti Te Whiti and members of the St. Mary’s church community to determine which stories needed to be told. Who should tell them? And whose voices would we hear, who would be talking?

Story Inc worked closely with Ngāmotu designers to bring the vision to life:
Tihei Ltd designed the Kōwhaiwhai and Tāniko elements, the pare over the main door, and worked with artist Richard Landers on the stained-glass windows. Cultural art direction was provided by Barry Te Whatu. Animated by Maui Studios.

DESIGN & EXHIBITION

Te Whare Hononga exists because of generous support from:

KANOA

ST JOHN’S COLLEGE

TOI FOUNDATION

FUNDING