Christchurch Justice Services Emergency Precinct

This world class precinct is the largest combined justice and emergency services facility in Australasia and was the first government funded Anchor Project to be constructed as a key priority of the blueprint for Christchurch City rebuild after the devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011.

Bringing together 9 individual government entities under the same roof, WSP Architecture in partnership with Warren & Mahoney and Cox Architecture created a design which demonstrates how the sector agencies can be accommodated together on the nominated site in a way that realises the benefits of co-location while still respecting the individual operation and identity of each of the member organisations.

The Precinct represents a new model for collaborative service provision that demonstrates the benefit of a more efficient and cost-effective public service through genuine closer working relationships within a shared location.

Extensive stakeholder engagement was undertaken to establish the user requirements of each sector and collaboration with Ngāi Tuahuriri ensured that the design narrative of the Precinct acknowledged the rich and varied history of Ōtautahi and reflected the aspirations and values of Ngāi Tahu.

Base isolated and designed to IL4, the Precinct will withstand significant seismic events and remain operational for 72 hours providing central services to the Christchurch community following an earthquake or significant event. WSP Building Services provided a sustainable resilient solution incorporating a sophisticated highly intelligent Building Management System with extensive zoning capability, particularly in lighting and HVAC systems.

Sustainability objectives have been recognised in the choice of materials from sustainable sources and design elements in the glazing and louvre system, which facilitate efficient energy management. The Precinct’s peak cooling and heating loads are 25-30% less than what would be normal for a complex of this size achieved through use of an aquifer and passive ventilation systems.

Opened in 2017 the Precinct is intended to enhance the public perception of the administration of government agencies and invites interaction, provides high quality public and occupant amenity, and enables a positive user experience by offering a new relationship with the public delivered through less intimidating buildings which support contemporary service models ultimately establishing a new civic attitude for the city.

Awards

• 2018 NZIA Canterbury Branch Award – Public Architecture
• 2018 NZIA Canterbury Branch Award – Interior Architecture
• NZ Property Council – Award of Excellence
• Commendation for Public Architecture, International category AIA International Chapter 2019
• Best Design Award ‘Nga Aho’ Gold Award for exemplar engagement with Ngai Tuahuriri - Matapopore Charitable Trust