Whangārei Māori Land Court: where tradition and innovation embrace

When the Ministry of Justice’s lease on their previous site was up for renewal, it didn’t just see it as an opportunity to relocate to a larger building. It recognised its crucial role in the community as providers of ancestry records to tangata whenua (people of the land) and the deep interest that many visitors have in their heritage. With this in mind, the Ministry sought to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment that fosters a sense of belonging, better serving the needs of the community.

The Whangārei Māori Land Court was designed with a strong emphasis on integrating people, identity and place. Our approach was centred around the guiding principles of Mahi Toi, Ahi Kā, Tohu and Whakapapa.

To bring this vision to life, careful consideration was given to the selection of materials and finishes, using only natively harvested and sustainable options that were deeply rooted in the local context and identity. For example, we drew inspiration from traditional items such as woven baskets (kete).
We were fortunate to collaborate with local sculptor, carver and design educator, Carin Wilson, who provided valuable insights on the incorporation of Te Aranga principles into the design phase. Carin also created many of the custom-made elements that brought the concept to life.
We honoured the Te Aranga principle of Tohu through a feature designed around the three local mountains (Maunga) that form a vital part of the community’s history.

This design includes carefully laminated local Rimu, Matai and Totara timber veneers, which represent each tribe’s affiliations and are prominently displayed behind the judges’ bench.

The result is a space that celebrates Māori culture while embracing contemporary design principles. It is a testament to the importance of cultural identity in modern architecture and is an example of what can be achieved when tradition and innovation come together.