MODE celebrates the completion of Te Whare Awhi Ora, NZ
Te Whare Awhi Ora – A House that Embraces Healing
We’re proud to share Te Whare Awhi Ora, a $31M Adult Mental Health & Addictions Facility in Gisborne, designed for Health New Zealand.
With over 60% of service users identifying as Māori, the design was deeply grounded in Kaupapa Māori principles, shaped by ongoing collaboration with mana whenua, iwi representatives, clinicians, and Māori artists. Every detail reflects cultural narratives and tikanga, creating a facility that is inclusive, respectful, and community-focused.
Key design highlights:
Biophilic environments that connect people to light, water, and nature
A double-height day room filled with natural light
Carved acoustic ceiling features and integrated soundscapes
Natural materials and sensory-rich details that promote calm and dignity
Spaces designed with balanced privacy, comfort, and safety
Sustainability was embedded from the outset. Te Whare Awhi Ora is set to become the first Health New Zealand mental health facility to achieve International Living Future Institute Zero Energy and Core Green certifications.
More than a health facility, Te Whare Awhi Ora is a place of belonging and holistic recovery, designed to support tangata whaiora on their journey to wellness, today and into the future.
Explore how culture, community, and biophilic design have shaped this landmark project here: https://www.modedesigncorp.com/portfolio/te-whare-awhi-ora-adult-mental-health-addictions-facility-gisborne-nz
Client: Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand
Location: Gisborne - NZ
MODE Expertise: Architecture, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture
Project Leads: Peter Bertram, Peter Mildenhall, Tim Williams, Lorens Zhou, Diego Silva, Reem Paul, Katerina Dvorakova
Project Partner: A44 Architects
Completion Date: February 2025