HIKURANGI PRIMARY SCHOOL NEW ADMIN

Mandeno Design was engaged by Hikurangi School BoT to masterplan for a replacement administration block, which had been affected by several floods due to its location within a flood zone. Following careful assessment, a new purpose-built facility was identified as the most appropriate long-term solution.

The new building establishes a clear and functional administrative hub for the school. The layout brings together reception and waiting areas, leadership offices, meeting rooms, sick bay, and staff facilities in a simple and efficient arrangement, designed to support both daily operations and future growth.

High ceilings and well-proportioned spaces create a light and open internal environment, while a large timber deck and covered outdoor areas extend the building’s usability. A dedicated staff courtyard provides a more private outdoor space, and surrounding concrete paving integrates the building with the wider school grounds.

Delivered while the school remained fully operational, the project navigated the added challenge of transferring essential services like the fire alarm, main distribution board and data systems from the demolished building to the new facility. The result is a well-resolved administration building that meets the needs of the school community both now and into the future.

“From a governance perspective, the entire process felt seamless. Design refinements and alterations were handled efficiently, and the Mandeno team demonstrated a strong understanding of the needs of schools in Northland. Their ability to deliver a design that closely matched our expectations from the first concept stage made the process straightforward and positive for our Board.”
— Jodi Edwards, Tumuaki, Board of Trustees, Hikurangi School