The Pā shortlisted in the WAF 2024 Awards

The University of Waikato’s new building, The Pā, has been shortlisted in the World Architecture Festival (WAF) Completed Buildings – Higher Education and Research Category. This achievement places The Pā among the best educational architectural projects globally.

The Pā provides a welcoming new main entrance to the University’s Hamilton campus. Organised along the primary east-west pedestrian axis through the campus, The Pā brings together four key projects under one roof structure: the wharenui (ceremonial meeting house) to the east, a wing for the University executive leadership team to the south, a central student hub, and the Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies Building within a refurbished 1960s space on the western edge.

A co-design process, which extended to consultation with leaders of the Kīngitanga (the Māori King movement) and the tribal communities of Waikato-Tainui, was key to the success of the project. Over 30 carvers and weavers were involved in conceptualising the cultural artworks and thresholds, delivering a clear and powerful narrative throughout the complex that draws on history, heritage, and cultural identity to create an inspirational and inclusive learning environment for all.

Inside, The Pā is a range of spaces and amenities, coupled with the flexibility to host a wide range of activities at various scales. These spaces offer students a place to gather, study, and socialise throughout the day as a key part of an enhanced campus community experience.

The judging for the WAF award will take place live in Singapore from 6-8 November 2024.

Architects: Architectus, Jasmax, and DesignTribe