BNZ’s striking new head office on Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington’s waterfront has achieved the highest possible Green Star rating for its sustainable design and construction.
Located at 1 Whitmore Street on a site formerly occupied by a small petrol station, 15-storey BNZ Place was developed by Newcrest, a leader in the push for greener commercial buildings in Aotearoa.
“We’re thrilled to have achieved a leading 6 Star Green Star rating as an enduring reminder of the work by all involved to create a healthier, resilient, sustainable landmark office building,” says Newcrest director, Lincoln Fraser.
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Image by Jasmax
Designed by a proven team of experts including Dunning Thornton and Jasmax, the 21,000 square metre, fully-electric building features A-grade office space, a six metre high entrance lobby, café, stunning rooftop courtyard and excellent end of trip facilities.
BNZ General Manager of Property, Kelly Galbraith, says the bank’s partnership with Newcrest has given new life to the site, and created an inspiring workplace for staff.
“We’re also seeing additional benefits because of the building’s impact - increased productivity and collaboration, a stronger connection to our workplace and values, reduced absenteeism and being the employer of choice to attract and retain talent.”
To achieve the Green Star rating, the design and construction considered a raft of sustainability and wellbeing criteria, with the final project awarded for its energy efficiency, passive design principles, and responsible use of more environmentally-friendly materials, including recycling over 90% of its construction waste.
“There’s clearly been a tremendous amount of work to ensure a high-performing building that’s great for staff wellbeing, lower running costs and is less harmful to the planet. BNZ Place is an excellent example of the future of commercial building in the capital,” says NZGBC chief executive, Andrew Eagles.