Mount Aspiring College redevelopment

We completed a major redevelopment over two years at Mount Aspiring College in Wānaka, including a demolition and civil works package and two large two-storey blocks, all in a live school environment.

After clearing the site, we embarked on an extensive in-ground services relocation and upgrade scope to facilitate the construction of the new buildings. Both buildings consist of pre-cast concrete panels on a concrete foundation, plus structural steel and timber framework and a warm roof. Aluminium joinery with custom fritted glass and a Trespa composite cladding system complete the external envelope.

We handed the first building over in two stages, with pupils occupying the completed spaces while we finished the rest. It incorporates classrooms and specialist subject teaching spaces, with rehearsal rooms, studios, technology rooms, a theatrette and a library on the ground floor. The first level includes multi-use open plan classrooms, breakout rooms and common areas. A light-filled atrium spans both floors.

The second building is an administration block, housing offices and breakout rooms, a wellbeing hub and additional teaching spaces. A whare annex adjoins the building, with the traditional meeting house shape formed with cedar-clad glulam timber portal frames.

Hard and soft landscaping ties the new buildings into the existing school campus, with native garden beds, exposed aggregate pathways, and additional car parking and drop-off areas.

We completed the project on time and to an exemplary standard for the very appreciative school and wider community.