Te Ara o Mauao, Toi Ohomai

A student-centric, multi-purpose interdisciplinary learning space on Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology’s Windermere Campus, provides 3,500m² of modern learning space across Art & Design, Music & Radio and other creative disciplines for approximately 700 students.  

The collaborative learning environment, which features a sound recording studio and purpose-built art, graphic, photography and creative art spaces, also reflects the campus’ vision of providing modern tertiary learning across the wider Bay of Plenty community.

Te Ara o Mauao, named for its association with the legend of Mauao (Mt Maunganui), is a metaphor for ‘being caught in the light of learning’, growing in mana through knowledge, and developing a deeper understanding for one’s own benefit and the benefit of others.

The building, underpinned by a design concept of flexibility and variety, also represents significant change for Toi Ohomai. The Institute is moving away from siloed (prefab) classrooms towards modern, project-based learning environments, and promoting wider transformation in learning and delivery across other faculties and the organisation.  

Chow:Hill’s design for Te Ara o Mauao’s ‘Learning Laneway’ (Nga Ara) blends learning and social environments across a three-storey internal atrium. Cedar panelling, expansive glass walls and high ceilings to maximise natural light, all contribute to the building’s contemporary yet functional aesthetic.