Hiwa named Supreme Award winner at Property Council NZ Awards 2025

This achievement follows Hiwa’s earlier success on the night, where it was also awarded Best in Category - Education, and Excellence - Leisure and Tourism.

Designed by WAM in collaboration with MJMA Architects in Toronto, Hiwa was recognised not only for its architectural and technical achievement, but for its significant contribution to health, wellbeing, student life and placemaking in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

“World-class tertiary institutions are defined not only by academic excellence but also by the quality of the on-campus experience,” says WAM Project Principal and Head of Design Blair Johnston. “At the heart of the student precinct, Hiwa has been designed to foster lifelong social, physical, and mental wellbeing. It’s a tangible expression of the University's commitment to student wellbeing, central to a broader strategy aimed at fostering a connected and engaged campus community - an increasingly vital role in today’s digital and socially fragmented world.”
 

Set across six vertical levels and 26,000sqm, the building is unapologetically ambitious. It features the southern hemisphere’s first glass sports floor with integrated LED markings, a rooftop multi-sport turf with panoramic views of the city, and a fully inclusive aquatic hall and wellness centre.

Its architectural response is also deeply technical. Delivered within a confined, sloping, 6,500sqm urban site, the design integrates a complex vertical programme with structural innovation – including an exposed steel diagrid perimeter and long-span structures over both courts and aquatic facilities – while maintaining respect for adjacent heritage buildings and a live campus environment.

“Hiwa challenged every aspect of project delivery,” says John Coop, WAM Managing Director. “The complexity of the site and ambition of the brief would have been significant in any context. But to have delivered it through the height of COVID disruption is a testament to the deep collaboration, adaptability and commitment from the entire team. Hiwa is proof of what can be achieved when remarkable teamwork is at the fore.”

The design was shaped by a clear kaupapa: to embed wellness into the student experience, and create a facility that students are proud to call their own. More than 500,000 visits have been recorded in its first few months of operation – an early signal that Hiwa is delivering on its intent.

Our congratulations and many thanks to the University of Auckland for their leadership and trust. It has been our privilege to help realise this landmark project.