Punangairi Visitor Centre

As part of the Dolomite Point Redevelopment Project, the Punangairi Visitor Centre was designed to reflect the rugged beauty and ecological significance of New Zealand’s West Coast.

The timber-framed structure features full-height curved glazing and a living roof of over 3,500 trays filled with native plants, allowing it to integrate naturally with the surrounding coastal landscape. This commitment to environmental harmony is paired with modern performance, ensuring the building is both beautiful and built to last.

Equus Soprema Duotherm Green Roof System

Equus collaborated with Sheppard & Rout Architects to deliver a robust and sustainable green roof waterproofing solution – the Duotherm Green Roof system:

• Waterproofing & Durability: DuO Landscape torch-applied membrane, reinforced and root-resistant, for long-term protection.
• Thermal & Acoustic Performance: PIR insulation and vapour barrier for condensation control, guaranteed R-values, and year-round comfort and energy efficiency.
• Membrane Protection: The inclusion of filter fabric and drainage systems, safeguards the drainage integrity and overall building performance
• Support Features: Backed by project-specific design support including condensation risk analysis, wind uplift studies, certified applicator installation, and system warranties

Key Features & Benefits

• Eco-integrated design: The green roof supports biodiversity, enhances stormwater control, and visually integrates the structure into its surrounding landscape
• Performance & longevity: With durable membranes, thermal insulation, and root protection, the system offers extended lifespan and reduced maintenance.
• Comfort & energy savings: The Duotherm warm roof minimizes heating and cooling loads through thermal efficiency, while effectively preventing moisture-related damage through condensation control.

Installed by Equus-certified applicators, the Duotherm Green Roof at Punangairi incorporates thermal insulation, robust waterproofing, drainage layers, with full technical support including condensation risk analysis, wind-uplift studies, and site-specific detailing to ensure long-term performance and design integrity.

Equus Soprema Tanking System

To protect the substructure from the high-moisture coastal environment, Soprema tanking waterproofing was installed as part of the building’s below-ground waterproofing. Benefits include:

• Superior Waterproofing – High-performance membranes designed to withstand groundwater pressure and prevent moisture ingress.
• Versatile Installation – Suitable for both pre-applied and post-applied application, meeting varying construction needs.
• Long-Term Durability – 50 year durability, resistant to soil settlement, and pedestrian site traffic.
• Seamless Integration – Works in conjunction with above-ground membranes for a continuous waterproofing envelope.

The Punangairi Visitor Centre is a prime example of how sustainable architecture and high-performance waterproofing can work in harmony. The Duotherm Green Roof enhances biodiversity and energy efficiency, while the Soprema Tanking System safeguards the structure from below. Together, these solutions deliver a complete building envelope, perfectly suited to the demanding West Coast environment and the project’s environmental vision.

Architect: Sheppard & Rout
Main Contractor: Naylor Love
Certified Applicator: Gunac Christchurch