Maori Television

Government-owned Maori Television underwent a dramatic coming-of-age in its 13th year, 2017, switching over to high-definition and moving into a brand new purpose built building at the same time.

The newbuild is in the industrial suburb of East Tamaki, far from their original Newmarket home, but much more suited to their business, with the exception that it lacks a studio. Designed by RCG architects, it is cited for its convenient location with access to the airport and arterial routes, as well as the Maori-dominant population bases of Otara and Mangere, with 20 marae in the vicinity including Te Puea.

Specifically Maori elements are not high profile in the design, though RCG called the process a weaving project with threads. Some artworks and features were transferred from their old building, and the rust-based colourways used for finishing were intended to represent Auckland's volcanic geological heritage. It is intended that the flexibility of open plan workspaces will keep the design relevant to the changing needs of the evolving broadcaster.

Image Credits: RCG Architects