8 | Ministry of Justice: Southbase Construction New standard for justice infrastructure The new Papakura Courthouse is being delivered for the Ministry of Justice, with design led by Architects and construction carried out by Southbase Construction. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Consents & Approvals Civil Design Construction Stormwater | Wastewater | Water Supply | Roading | Earthworks | Flood Risk Project Management | Construction | Resource Consents | Certification LEADERS IN CIVIL ENGINEERING & INFRASTRUCTURE Proudly Supporting the Ministry of Justice WWW.FLOWPATH.CO.NZ A new courthouse rising in South Auckland is being hailed as a significant step forward in modernising New Zealand’s justice infrastructure, with innovative construction methods and a focus on efficiency at its core. Work on the new Papakura Courthouse began in earnest in May 2025 when site establishment got under way. The project quickly progressed with the demolition of the former RSA building on the Elliot Street site completed by August that year, clearing the path for construction of the new facility. A sod-turning ceremony held on 5 August 2025 marked the formal commencement of the build, drawing members of the judiciary, government ministers and courthouse staff. The courthouse is being delivered for the Ministry of Justice, with design led by Architectus and construction carried out by Southbase Construction Ltd under a designand-build contract, with A-Line being a key partner, and Henderson Demolition providing the demolition works. Central to the project is its use of modular construction, a method that is becoming increasingly prominent in large-scale developments. Approximately half of the building is being constructed off-site as prefabricated modules, which are then transported to Papakura and installed. This approach allows work to take place simultaneously in different locations, significantly reducing overall build time compared with traditional construction methods. It also improves safety and efficiency while minimising material waste. By March 2026, a major milestone had been reached with the installation of the modular components at the Elliot Street site, signalling steady progress towards completion. Courts Minister Nicole McKee emphasises that the construction method reflects a forward-thinking response to the needs of a rapidly expanding population. “Half the new building is being constructed off-site. These components will be delivered as prefabricated modules and then installed onsite,” says Mrs McKee. “This is a way of building safely and efficiently, while reducing time, cost, and material resources, as we respond to demographic changes in the fast-growing South Auckland area.” The modular design also offers long-term flexibility. Components of the building can potentially be relocated or repurposed in the future. Once completed, the courthouse will provide a comprehensive range of facilities. It will include three courtrooms, two hearing rooms and dedicated custody areas, alongside registry services, judges’ chambers and public waiting spaces. A notable feature is the inclusion of a purpose-built suite for vulnerable witnesses, reflecting a growing emphasis on making the justice system more accessible and supportive for victims. Enhanced audiovisual capabilities will also be integrated throughout the building, including within courtrooms, legal offices and custodial areas. “Victims are our priority, and this helps return them to the heart of the justice system,” says Mrs McKee. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says improving infrastructure such as courthouses is essential for both economic growth and community wellbeing. “Improving the quality of New Zealand’s infrastructure is vital to creating jobs, growing our economy and helping Kiwis with the cost of living,” Mr Goldsmith says. “Improving court timeliness and access to justice is a major part of plan to restore law and order, which we know is working. Courts are an important part of our social fabric, where the law is enforced, civil disputes are resolved, and the rights of individuals upheld.” The development comes with an estimated construction budget of $34m and is expected to be completed in late 2026, opening to the public in early 2027.
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