AUKAHA | To repair, strengthen, reinforce and bolster | Mani Greene & Sarah Cantillon (Group 02)
Through our analysis of Mātai Moana we came to appreciate a strong sense of identity in its dramatic landform created by the splitting effect of the earthquakes that have formed it. We saw this fractured quality in the land's historic past and often disparate occupations that make up its rich cultural fabric. We wanted to acknowledge these individual histories, past and present, while creating greater cohesion amongst them.
Our strategy uses the Māori notion of Aukaha to unite and bind together. The goal is to give greater identity to these cultural traces, rehabilitate the ecology of the site through design and strengthen the relationships between mana whenua, local community groups and Wellingtonians who all value this unique land.
Our design intention is to reveal the four traces of occupation, each with a distinct planting identity, bringing a subtle and experiential design to the overall landscape. Meaning that for those enjoying Mātai Moana, each distinctive planting palette offers a hint to its culturally significant past.
Each design intervention has been considered through a light touch approach. Repurposing materials from demolished buildings such as the prison, to form new gabion outdoor furniture or facilities. This project’s approach to land rehabilitation utilises existing natural networks such as pines & gorse in order to kick-start or support a complex self-organising ecosystem which will be achieved and managed through community stewardship.
Newly built elements such as the cross disciplinary workshop hub at the prison, Shelly Bay market, digital arts zone and the repurposed farm building education centre are designed to develop collaboration between the community and its many groups.
Finally, an enhanced connection between the land and the sea will offer increased accessibility, safety and resilience along the shoreline, while simultaneously binding it closer to the mainland. Recognising that they are not separate entities, the health of one, is the health of both.
