Projects
Te Rangihiroa College
Client
- University of Otago
Project Leads
Sector
Location
- Otago – Southland
In a landmark achievement for Otago University, Te Rangihīroa College stands as the first purpose-built residential college constructed in 50 years. Named in honour of Te Rangihīroa (Sir Peter Buck), the first Māori medical graduate from a New Zealand university, the college epitomises both cultural reverence and modern architectural innovation.
From its inception, the design of Te Rangihīroa College prioritised accessibility and inclusivity. Spanning 14,000m² and featuring 450 rooms, including 150 ensuites, the college is equipped to cater to students with a range of needs. Key features include wide doors and vibrating alarm units for students with hearing impairments, ensuring that all students can thrive in a supportive environment.
The design's dedication to accessibility was not an afterthought but a core principle. Unlike many projects where inclusive features can be limited or scaled back, Te Rangihīroa College incorporated these elements from the outset, setting a new standard for campus accommodation.
RCP’s involvement in the project began after procurement for construction had completed. RCP role included Project Director, Engineer's Representative, and Project Management. The transition was smooth despite some initial client-side internal project management challenges, leading to RCP’s role in helping the project get on track.
The project faced several challenges, including the impact of COVID-19, which raised concerns about cost escalations. The contractor’s initial approach involved proposing various modifications without full transparency. To address this, the Design and Build (D&B) contract incorporated design development costs to manage potential additional expenses effectively. RCP meticulously managed the NZ:3916 contract ensuring that contractor variations were justified and aligned with the project's scope.
An unexpected obstacle also emerged when a facade contractor went into liquidation with 80% of their work completed. RCP swiftly coordinated with the client and liquidator to protect the client’s interests and keep the project on track. RCP also managed the replacement of the subcontractor, procured necessary materials, and advanced the project efficiently.
The project set ambitious sustainability goals, aiming for a 5-star Green Star rating with hopes of achieving a groundbreaking 6-star rating. While the 6-star mark remains a goal, RCP are confident of securing at least the 5-star rating. This commitment to high environmental standards is evident in features like lower flush rates in toilets, though practical challenges such as increased maintenance and water usage were encountered. This experience highlighted the need to align sustainability goals with practical, durable solutions.
The architectural design of Te Rangihīroa College beautifully integrates Māori cultural elements. The exterior features Māori motifs and whakataukī, with blue aluminium panels showcasing kaokao patterns, symbolising the protective ribs of ancestors. The structure, designed by Jasmax, radiates from a central pillar with four wings, reflecting the contributions of Te Rangihīroa’s iwi, Ngāti Mutunga, and Kāi Tahu. The building also includes personal touches, such as the exterior sign with Te Rangihīroa’s name in his distinctive left-handed script.
The successful incorporation of Māori cultural elements into the project’s design not only honours Te Rangihīroa but also reinforces the cultural narrative and fosters a strong sense of identity for all involved.
The College was completed in 2023.
