Maori design for foot pools redevelopment

A concept has been chosen for a new architecturally designed shelter over one of Kuirau Park’s two thermal foot pools.

The new project, called Te Waimirimiri o Te Kuirau, focuses on creating a new family-friendly relaxation and recreation hub that is expected to become popular for both visitors and locals.

The name describes the combination of water, relaxation and massaging waters associated with geothermal bathing.

Designed by Fred Stevens of local firm Architecture Aotearoa, the concept takes a modern twist on traditional Maori design, and integrates the use of local wood, in line with the council’s Wood First Policy.

Stevens described his design as a contemporary expression of traditional Maori building forms and philosophies, commenting “it results in an architecture that responds directly to the uniqueness of Aotearoa New Zealand and is appropriate within its Kuirau Park setting.”

Redevelopment of Kuirau Park’s twin thermal foot pools and cold water paddling pool is part of a wider Rotorua Lakes Council’s programme to progressively upgrade the park. It supports Rotorua 2030 inner city revitalisation, economic growth and ‘outstanding places to play’ goals.

Work will involve removal of the existing cold water paddling pool, foot pool shelter and paving in March next year, with construction work getting underway in April.

Leading into the redeveloped Kuirau Park pools precinct will be a series of stylised waharoa - or entranceways - along with a new cold water paddling pool feature, public seating, a covered barbecue and picnic tables.

Landscaping of the area will include native plants and large rock features, in keeping with the park’s geothermal theme.

Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick said the project was an exciting initiative for helping revitalise and upgrade Kuirau Park.

Mayor Chadwick commented “I’m particularly pleased the shelter’s creative design acknowledges Rotorua’s important Maori heritage while also supporting our innovative Wood First Policy. It all fits well with our Rotorua 2030 goal to create more outstanding places to play.

“The foot pools area of Kuirau Park had become somewhat dated and under-utilised over recent years, but these new features have the real potential to become iconic and uniquely Rotorua attractions for our community and visitors to enjoy.

“I’ve been really encouraged by the growing use of the park in recent times, especially since the Green Corridor and boulevard gardens developments, and upgrading of other facilities.”

The council’s current long-term plan has $300,000 budgeted for the full project, including construction of the new foot pool shelter, a series of entranceways, a new cold water paddling pool, barbecue, seating, picnic tables and landscaping.

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