| 103 Warmer classrooms ahead for Fairlie School The building has been future-proofed for technology, and allowances have been made to install solar at a later date as well. T T Aimee Wilson Fairlie School: McIntosh Group COMMUNITY A small rural school in the heart of the Mackenzie Country is getting a much-needed rebuild to replace the old senior block that has been in existence since the early 1900s. Fairlie School board of trustees chair Hamish Wallace says the three new classrooms will be kitted out in wool, including insulation, wall linings and carpet. “This was extremely important to us as it showcases what can be done with a natural product, but also represents and supports our local farming families,” he says. “The wool industry has struggled for years, but needs to be showcased and proven what can be done with this 100% natural product.” The building has been future-proofed for technology, and allowances have been made to install solar at a later date as well. Acknowledging the work of the school’s former principal, Amanda O’Brien, Hamish says she spent hours persuading the Ministry of Education why the three senior block classrooms needed to be eplaced. “It’s old, it’s draughty. Basically, what prompted the development was the simple fact this building is past it, and costing a small fortune to keep up to minimum standards as set by the MOE.” Being in the middle of the South Island, where temperatures can be extreme, it was seen as mportant that the 130-plus students were warm when they were learning. Up until now, they have had to run two heat pumps per classroom just to keep the rooms at the required temperature. “Our vision was to build a new senior block that created an environment the kids want to be and learn in,” says Hamish. “Our vision as a board is to ensure that the kids receive the best education possible, in the best environment with the best resources available. They are our future and we need to protect that.” The school doesn’t do things by halves. A new ‘Nu-matt’ playground in Mackenzie tartan can be seen from the skies above, ensuring anybody flying over is familiar with the territory. Work has just started on the $2 million redevelopment of the senior school block, with completion expected in March 2026. Hamish says the biggest challenge, as with any building project, was sticking to the budget. Fortunately, NB Architects were still able to make the design plans work to accommodate any future growth. “We pleaded with the MOE to build a four-classroom complex instead of the three classrooms we have been granted; however, our request was declined,” Hamish says. The school roll fluctuates between 130 and 145 students, but if there was room for 150 students they were eligible for a seventh teacher and another classroom. The Fairlie area is steadily growing, as is the school, he says. “And it won’t be long before our roll hits 150 students. The trend shows this. However, the new senior block has been designed so a fourth classroom can be added without huge implications.” The hard work to convince the MoE to invest in its land and buildings in Fairlie is done, and soon the community will have a modern building that complements the junior block, administration and school library, and a new playground. When it comes to adding value to a client’s vision NB Architects is at the forefront. We are passionate, innovative and focused on delivering a result that identifies with your project’s goals and ambitions while creating a landmark that stands the test of time. Proud to support Fairlie Primary phone: (03) 684 7918 email: admin@nbarchitects.co.nz nbarchitects.co.nz
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