These accolades celebrate the thoughtful design, vibrant use of colour, and the inspiring learning environment the new N Block offers.
There are several key design elements represented on the pou of the building, situated along the stairs on the outside front of the building, referencing important concepts and values pertaining to our rangatahi and educational vision. As bearers of these art works, the columns of the building have become contemporary pou. The designs represent the following ideas:
The Poutama pattern links to the journey of our students’ learning as they progress through their time at our kura, increasing in knowledge, maturity, experiencing success, unfolding and fulfilling on their personal aspirations and our community’s aspirations for them.
The Stars are a visual representation of our rangatahi shining brightly, fulfilling their potential throughout life. As well as representing our students, the stars reference bodies of knowledge, heritage, a past and future collective identity and belonging that is without limits.
The Kowhaiwhai motifs link directly to the idea of growth, but also to the notion of whakapapa, honouring those who have come before us personally and as community. The kowhaiwhai motif has its origins in forms found in native plant forms. We wished to include a link to the legend of Pukekohe’s forest and mauri stone, reasserting the importance of mauri (life-force / essence / dynamic potential) in the journey of our kura and rangatahi.
As you ascend the stairs, different parts of the patterns are the focal point, inviting a multi-faceted view of these important ideas. The physical act of ascending can be linked to a bi-cultural, holistic and spiritual experience of growth, journeying and fulfilment in the context of our learning environment, holding us all to high standards and vision. It is our vision and role as a kura to grow our rangatahi as strong trees, bright stars, finding and experiencing success, aspirational, inspired, on a journey of fulfilling on their potential.
Come and view our new building during our upcoming Open Evening on Wednesday 4th June.
