Kahukura (Engineering and Architectural Studies)
The new Kahukura (Engineering and Architectural Studies building) is designed around leading, innovative, flexible learning and work spaces for our students and staff.
Construction began on Kahukura in April 2015. Designed by Jasmax, this $34m building is a flagship of the Campus Master Plan with leading environments for innovative teaching and learning.
Jasmax utilised the long, narrow site on busy Moorhouse Avenue designated for the project to mark the Southern Gateway to Ara Institute of Canterbury's redeveloped campus and draw attention to its vibrant Engineering and Architectural Studies department.
The building utilises exciting sustainability features such as timber technology that is leading sustainable building overseas.
Other design highlights include open, flexible learning spaces, a central staircase incorporating informal meeting spaces, a building facade inspired by Maori cloaks and a public exhibition space for student work. Solar photovoltaic panels and solar hot water, supplying up to 50% of the building's energy and two-thirds of hot water further achieve the sustainability aspirations of Kahukura. This is a building for the future.
Kahukura is a Māori word that refers to a chiefly cloak, a rainbow and the ancestor of the Cashmere Hills, which the building looks towards.
Kahukura was opened by Prime Minister Bill English in September 2017.
Read more (LINK TO Prime Minister opens Kahukura)