Auckland students enjoy winning accommodation

The 786-bed residence designed by Warren and Mahoney Architects was recognised in the Housing Multi Unit category at the recent 2021 Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects’ Auckland awards.

University of Auckland Director of Property Services, Simon Neale, said the hall, which opened in 2020, had been designed with the needs of its student community in mind, and it is fulfilling the brief.

“The awards this year really focused on worthwhile projects that are providing a community benefit, and we know that Waipārūrū Hall really stacks up against this criterion.

“For many first-year undergraduates, this is a home away from home. Our objective was to provide a residence that would support them from a pastoral perspective and allow them to make the most of their university experience.

"It’s really good to see that these elements are also acknowledged and awarded by the architecture industry,” he said.

The Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects’ Auckland awards celebrated 62 winners this year. Awards convenor, Pac Studio architect Aaron Paterson noted that one of the main judging criteria asked, “does this building uplift the human spirit?”

The judges said that Waipārūrū Hall positively contributes to the city edge and provides a supportive environment for student life.

“At street level, the podium is glazed and welcoming for its student residents. The entry level presents a range of spaces for the students to gather, study or socialise. There are also places to withdraw to while remaining connected. This 'learning landscape' provides a safe and supportive environment for student life in the city,” they noted.

The colour scheme was also commended for being used to orient residents as they move through the building and the aesthetics acknowledged for “creating a sculptural profile to the city edge”.

Located close to the City Campus, Waipārūrū Hall provides generous communal facilities including study spaces and games and recreation areas within its two towers.