By Wingates
Wingates recently designed the new workplace for Trustpower's Generation business – Manawa Energy. Located at Levels 2 & 3 of the new NZ Blood Building at 93 Cameron Rd, Tauranga, this new 1600sqm workplace reflects the great outcomes and working practices Manawa Energy have developed and refined whilst being part of Trustpower.
Transitioning their activity-based style of working to allow for current hybrid practices and new post-pandemic ways of working, our Design process included a strong focus on the acknowledgement of Te Ao Māori with design principles heavily influenced by the Tauranga Moana region. Our approach brought various stakeholders and iwi together- including ā & āā - as well as the Base Building Architect and Developer.
The name ‘Manawa’ meaning ‘heart’ was gifted by local hapu Ngāti Hangarau. It speaks to the heart of their operations, the Kaimai Power scheme; and is a nod to the shared whakapapa with Ngāti Hangarau to the Omanawa River. The name and brand story come from the heart of what they do and are deeply connected to the natural environment, their role as Kaitiaki and the importance of listening to the sounds of the environment to guide them into the future. It’s these sentiments that the Wingates team have aspired to translate into a workplace environment that supports the wellbeing of Manawa’s staff and the work they do in providing renewable energy for our sustainable future.
Their new environment seeks to demonstrate and embed the key Manawa Energy brand attributes. • • • • , overlayed with a spirit of aspiration, ambition, and heart, whilst also providing a modern day and flexible working environment that acknowledges Manawa’s strong contribution to the region and the local community.
Established in 2004, Wingates is an award-winning Architecture & Interior Design studio.
With offices in Auckland, Tauranga and Hamilton, the studio has earned a reputation for delivering successful solutions across a range of design disciplines. The team boasts extensive experience and skill in the areas of commercial architecture, interiors, residential, retail, hospitality, healthcare and education, sharing the philosophy that optimum solutions are achieved using a combination of innovative thinking and open dialogue with all those involved in, and affected by the project.
We have a passion for creating quality buildings, environments and products that respond to their client’s needs, user requirements and community expectations. The practice benefits from an extensive skills base that is constantly developing.
At Wingates we believe good design is an investment, and good design solutions are achieved through the application of informed and innovative thinking. Open inclusive dialogue with all those involved in, and affected by the project, will deliver the best possible solution.