The Waikato Region is home to an estimated 40% of New Zealand’s research scientists and the location of some of New Zealand’s most important life-science research institutions. Waikato Innovation Park is being developed to the latest international state-of-the-art standards to better serve this important industry. Comprising some 20-hectares, the Innovation Park will focus primarily on life-sciences and bio-technological research while offering a range of communal social and recreational activities such as cafes, restaurants, conference facilities, creche, and research facilities.

In addition to having overall responsibility for the creation of a structure plan and landscape plan, Chow:Hill were also selected to complete a comprehensive design guide for the park. The guide was developed to support innovative design and ensure that all ongoing development contributes positively towards the park’s overall holistic vision. The design elements addressed included, townscape principles, buildings and materials, movement and transport, the public realm, graphics and signage, and art and culture.