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Project Background

The mission of DOC, a central government organisation, is “to conserve New Zealand's natural and historic heritage for all to enjoy now and in the future”.

As the ideal headquarters from which to deliver this mission, DOC was looking for an environmentally friendly building that would offer a safe, healthy, comfortable and productive working environment for staff, as well as demonstrating DOC’s commitment to sustainability.

DOC chose the existing Manners Street building after evaluating a number of possible accommodation proposals, including a new build, Mid City was selected because it was priced competitively, provided an innovative and high-quality green building design, and was located close to amenities staff members were already using.

Property developer The Wellington Company was totally committed to environmentally sustainable design considerations. This was vividly demonstrated by its mid-project decision to install chilled beam technology instead of the system that was its contractual responsibility and picking up the difference in cost.

The guiding environmental principles for the building’s refit included:

  • minimising energy consumption

  • protecting and conserving water

  • using environmentally preferred materials

  • enhancing the quality of the interior environment

  • optimising operational and maintenance practices.

The resulting building meets these principles, as well as DOC’s requirements. Conservation House is an iconic, ecologically sustainable building that features an exciting yet efficient open-plan layout strongly connected to the external environment and nature.

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