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Te Rito o Manaaki ora

Manaaki Ora Trust’s new counselling facility and head office focussed on solutions that embodied cultural identity. Designed to be warm, welcoming, and non-clinical, the building fosters a sense of safety and inclusivity for both clients and staff.

The exterior’s undulating facade tells the story of the Te Arawa people, their whakapapa and their journey to Aotearoa aboard their waka hourua. The undulations represent the challenges and triumphs of their voyage, while strategically placed apertures draw naturally deep into the interior. The interior planning is anchored by the concept of a vertical Marae the layout centres around the Te Waharoa on the ground floor, a welcoming space that sets the tone for the entire facility. The first floor functions as the Te Whare Wānanga, while the second floor serves as the Te Wāhi o Nga Ringawera. Each level features a unique design language with specific meanings captured through elements like Te Ara Turapa, Poutama, and Te Pātiki . A large central Poutokomanawa, rises through the levels, visually and symbolically connecting the people.

Location
Bay of Plenty
Completed
2023
Awards
Commercial Regional Winner – Waikato/Bay of Plenty - 2024
Resene Colour Award - 2024
National Award for Commercial Architecture - 2024
Resene Colour in Design Award - 2024
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About the
Professional

DCA Architects is an established design practice across 4 offices in Rotorua, Hawkes Bay, Auckland and Nelson - operating since 1996. Our projects cover the length of NZ working with our regional communities.

Completed works include a wide variety, demonstrating our adaptability and ability to listen, research and analyse. Delivering projects of relevance, function, culturally, and environmentally sensitive - regardless of building typology. DCA has a varied market share of architecture services; in the education sector; commercial; industrial; civic and residential sectors.

DCA Architects are a non-corporate, next-door neighbour friendly group of creatives. International design experience and a vision to see past our clients means we understand that our projects can impact and change the lives of many. We welcome the opportunity to partner and collaborate with the people anywhere in the world to create transformational projects that improve people’s lives - now and in the future.

DCA Architects of Transformation
DCA Architects of Transformation

Architects