In May of 2002 the trustees selected Architecture Warren & Mahoney, one of New Zealand's best known firms of architects, to develop a concept design for the building. In May of 2002 the trustees selected Architecture Warren & Mahoney, one of New Zealand's best known firms of architects, to develop a concept design for the building.The brief required that the building should be bold and unique, yet relate to the beautiful and expansive setting of the Mackenzie. It will occupy some 4000m2 on two levels and include a large auditorium/planetarium, meeting rooms and catering facilities. Architecture Warren & Mahoney have been responsible for designing a number of iconic public buildings over a number of decades, and the expectation is that the Mackenzie Heritage Centre will become another such building.

A number of architects under the direction of John Coop have been involved. The initial design was developed with input from Alexa Johnston, a leading museum design consultant from Auckland. The initial concept design (shown above) was revealed to the Public at a series of meetings within the Mackenzie District in August 2002 and since that time further refinements have been undertaken.

In January 2003, The Trust Board approved a concept design for the building, which is a modification of the original concept presented by the Architecture Warren & Mahoney in May of 2002. These artist's impressions of the building and site were prepared by Ian Stantiall.

The building is comprised of three sections, a large, solidly constructed 2 level exhibition space on the west and a lighter 2 level structure consisting of the reception, retail shop, cafe, meeting rooms, viewing area for quiet reflection and contemplation. These 2 sections will be joined by a magnificent space to be known as the landscape hall. The latter area is 60m long by 8m wide and 10m high, with its northern aspect finished in glass, framing an unobstructed view directly up the lake.

www.ldps.co.nz
LDPS NZ have been appointed as Technical Consultants to the Trust and Project Director of the Mackenzie Heritage Centre Project in Lake Tekapo.
A completely new development, it will bring together the creative might of Architecture Warren and Mahoney and the exhibition skills of Story Inc and Gibson Group.
LDPS NZ will provide specialist technical knowledge and design to all of the above and will be responsible for the procurement of specialist equipment for the project.

Further information can be found on:
www.themackenzie.co.nz