A new building poised to add charm to Dunedin’s city centre is taking shape. Ngāi Tahu Property, in partnership with ACC Investments is proud to be developing the new 4-storey, 8600 sqm office building nestled in the city’s historical precinct between Dowling Street and Queens Gardens. Ōtepoti is the name given to this development by mana whenua. It is a name that reflects the cultural and historical significance of this site. The building site was originally part of the Ōtākou foreshore named Ōtepoti. Ōtepoti is the ancient name given to the site for the distinctive corner shape of the harbour at the original site. It reflected the shape of the ‘Poti’ a flax basket used for gathering and transporting food. The journey of Ōtepoti has been an exciting and challenging one so far. Ngāi Tahu Property Development Manager Laurie Corbett explains, “It took a year longer to do the groundworks because of the archaeological discoveries and to remove rubble and contamination. It is also in a very constrained area.”With heritage buildings on either side, the construction methodology has been carefully considered to minimise disruption to neighbouring properties. In the past year, the site has been cleared, and enabling works have been undertaken to stabilise it. “We’ve put in 70 piles to support the main structure of the building, and the foundations that sit atop the piles are in place,” adds Laurie. Now, the project has transitioned to vertical construction, and in the coming year, the main structure of the building will be complete, with the façade expected to be worked on early next year. The design of the building was developed in partnership with mana whenua and is grounded in the renewal of the placename – Ōtepoti. The exterior glazing includes distinctive printed artwork designed by local Ngāi Tahu artist Kirsten Parkinson that reflects the distinct woven pattern of a traditional poti basket. The artwork also has a functional purpose and was developed in conjunction with building energy modelling software to control daylight levels and reduce the energy use of the building. The building aims to achieve a 20% reduction in embodied carbon by incorporating mass timber stairs, internal timber framing, and sustainable, responsibly sourced interior finishes. It’s a testament to the commitment of Ngāi Tahu Property and ACC Investments to not just preserve the environment but to actively contribute to its improvement. The architects have done a commendable job in designing Ōtepoti to be sympathetic to its historical location. “The façade will be complete and the building weathertight mid-2024 allowing us to continue and progress inside,” Laurie notes. ACC will be the sole tenants in the building, while Ngāi Tahu Property will take on the role of property manager, ensuring the building’s upkeep once it’s completed. At its current progress, Ōtepoti is expected to be completed in mid-2025. It will stand alongside historical buildings, honouring the past while embracing the future. Ngāi Tahu Property Limited is a leading property development and investment company owned by TeWaipounamu based iwi, Ngāi Tahu. Since 1994, Ngāi Tahu Property has overseen several masterplanned residential developments, as well as significant commercial and industrial projects. SPONSORED CONTENT Ōtepoti: Honouring Dunedin’s Rich Heritage Artists Impression Artists Impression
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