The new look of PHF Science’s Kenepuru Science Centre is about to become visible to the public, with a significant construction milestone approaching in the coming weeks.
Scaffolding removal is on track to begin in early May. As sections of scaffolding come down, more of the building’s form and design will be visible from the outside for the first time.
In addition, solar panel installation on the building is now complete.
The solar array, made up of 78 panels, is expected to generate around 15% of the building’s energy needs. This will help reduce running costs and emissions while supporting the performance requirements of specialist laboratory spaces.
The Kenepuru Science Centre is being delivered through a partnership between PHF Science and Crown Infrastructure Delivery (CID), with Hawkins as main contractor. The project is on track for completion in early 2028. The centre will house over 1,500 square metres of PHF Science’s purpose-built laboratories, its Wellington Forensic Service Centre and an innovation hub, strengthening New Zealand’s capability in forensic and public health science services and research.
Mark Ottaway, Deputy Chief Executive and General Manager Business Services at PHF Science, says the start of solar installation is a visible marker of progress and a practical step toward keeping operational performance front of mind.
“PHF Science is committed to operating sustainably, and generating electricity on site is a smart way to cut running costs and emissions while still meeting the demands of specialist science spaces.”
John O’Hagan, Chief Executive Officer of CID, says the coming weeks mark an important transition as exterior works begin to wrap up.
“Sections of scaffolding will start coming down next month, which will reveal more of the building as the exterior work continues to close out. It’s a satisfying moment because you get to see the design and form of the new building properly emerge.”
The building’s design was developed with Ngāti Toa Rangatira and has achieved a 5 Green Star (Design) rating, certified by the New Zealand Green Building Council. Its form is designed to harvest rainwater, channelling it to collection points.