CCC and DCL worked together to create an exciting combination of open-air hot pools, sauna and steam room, and public beach-facing facilities; the facility is a valuable asset and catalyst to the wider regeneration of New Brighton and pays homage to the historic salt water pools that once occupied the site. There are five hot pools of varying temperature and a plunge pool for cooling off. The facility was designed to be fully accessible with easy access to changing areas and pools, and a state of the art “Pool Pod” affording self operated pool access to users needing mobility assistance.

The pools are heated via heat exchangers which draw water from dedicated boreholes, in order not to put undue pressure on the town water infrastructure. Landscaping both inside the complex and externally on new sand dunes was carefully selected and eco-sourced to ensure that the environmental effect of the project wasn’t only mitigated but enhanced.

Engagement with Matapopore ensured that the design maintained appropriate and respectful cultural reference, linking the town centre and the ocean and through patiki influenced patterns and interior designs and referencing the cultural narrative relating to the area’s history.

TEAM were appointed by DCL in mid-2019 as project managers to deliver the He Puna Taimoana project.

To ensure the budget stayed under control, we led a value management exercise that prioritised the facilities and amenities to be provided, which were continually balanced against the mitigation of commercial risks. The project was run on a principle of collaboration and teamwork; we structured the project team to allow parties to concentrate on their core skills, within a culture of support and problem solving.

As a result, the project was complete in readiness for opening in March 2020, on time and below budget.