Visited by four million people, the Expo organisers chose it as one of the top three in the 'single pavilion' award category, and one of the top 12 overall out of 130 pavilions. The New Zealand pavilion was an overwhelming success.
Beca was part of a diverse team of architects, artists, engineers and filmmakers to design a pavilion showcasing New Zealand's natural beauty, as well as conveying sustainable development and the conservation of nature. Beca provided the mechanical, electrical, fire, and structural design for the pavilion.
Constructed entirely on site, the exhibition structure was timber-framed and comprised an 18m x 18m module with a mezzanine floor. With Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) a key focus, the carpet was manufactured from recycled materials, and low emission paints and wood board products were specified to improve internal air quality. All plumbing fittings were low flow fittings to reduce water use. An energy recovery wheel was installed to recover heating energy from the air stream and presentation lighting, allowing efficiency and less reliance on the Exposition Authority’s limited capacity infrastructure systems.
The main challenge was dealing with an overseas peer reviewer and their respective codes. This was overcome by involving the contractor early in the design process to provide relevant local input and forward planning. New Zealand Trade and Enterprise Ltd was able to have its pavillion designed and ready for construction ahead of schedule. Thanks to outstanding teamwork between Beca, the architect, project manager and contractor.