Wanaka Lakes Health Centre

Wanaka’s 2,000m² integrated health care facility is a one-stop shop for the growing region’s health care needs. It incorporates two medical practices, a pharmacy, physiotherapists, radiologists, optometrists and a range of other permanent community and private health services, with additional lettable spaces for visiting specialists.

Naylor Love worked closely with the clients during the planning phase of this design and build project to ensure that the design was compatible with the tight budget. This “no surprises” approach ensured that the design process flowed effortlessly over to construction.

The steel framed structure sites on an insulated slab on hard fill, with timber infill framing and cedar weatherboard and horizontal colorsteel cladding. The design allows for discreet hubs for each practice around a central reception and service core. The lowered building platform was partially excavated into the site and roof forms follow the original land contour to help minimise the visual impact of the building. The roof forms also conceal the mechanical services plant.

Generous roof overhangs allow large windows at each end of the internal corridors to provide natural light to the building without making it too hot. The big windows also frame some gorgeous views of the local mountain ranges. Other sustainable design features include approved green-build materials, energy-efficient services, and extensive landscaping.

The new medical centre was delivered on time and on budget, and we were delighted to be invited back three years later to build an extension.