Waiheke Primary School

Client: Ministry of Education

Architect: Opus International

Area: 1997m2

Architects Value: $8.3 million

Completion: 2005

Project Brief:

The ferry to Waiheke Island left every morning at 6am with Gibson O'Connor's tradesmen on board. While they joked it was their first oversead job, they became aware of the challenges working offshore presented. As well as shipping 40 strong workforce and all materials by ferry daily, there were special logistics to consider, such as a wetland site and a controversial design. As a 'greensite' on a hill, new infrastructure and a permanent resident were required for the entire project.

All these challenges did not stop Gibson O'Connor from building a new school, new water bore, underground tanks, sewage and irrigation systems on time and within budget. All parties were happy, including the local Pukeko family who made a meal of the gardens until the landscape gardener outwitted them.