Representing a town’s bold ambition to create a mixed-use precinct for locals and visitors

Wakatu Quay

Kaikōura is a region heavily reliant on tourism. But a 2016 earthquake cut off physical access and disrupted its traditional flow of visitors. Wakatu Quay represents a town’s bold ambition to create a mixed-use precinct for locals and visitors alike – and in doing so, put itself back on the map.
The buildings reflect and take direct influence from their rugged context, its geological uplift and heavily textured limestone that can be seen on the Peninsula and the immediate area surrounding the quay itself.
Jonathan Coote - Project Principal, Warren and Mahoney
The bold design developed by Warren and Mahoney is an exciting step forward for Kaikōura. The design and construction are robust considering its rugged location, drawing inspiration from its surroundings along with our heritage and geology, mixing traditional and contemporary design.
Chris Sturgeon - Kaikōura Marine Development Programme Lead 
The new facility will become a beacon of contemporary design and community connectedness, embodying its position on the edge of the land and seascape back to Kaikōura Village.
The design creates a highly flexible space enabling a broad range of activity and engagement
The Wakatu Quay development will have a positive impact on the community by providing a visitor draw and community space that can be enjoyed by visitors and residents alike, as well as providing local employment opportunities.
Wakatu Quay will provide tenancy opportunities including hospitality, tourism/activity operator, community gathering points and event space, areas to play/fish/walk and education/cultural facilities that will complement existing businesses in Kaikōura.

Collective Effort

Collective Effort

Jonathan Coote
Head of Design, Principal
Christchurch
Frederic Gapinski
Associate
Christchurch
Joseph Hampton
Principal
Christchurch
Sebastien Gapinski
Associate Principal
Melbourne
Rod Marler
Consulting Principal
Auckland
Awards
World Architecture Festival - Future Project Civic - Finalist

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