Te Ngaengae Pool and Fitness Centre
At a glance
The aim was to create a revitalised community hub that reflects Naenae’s identity and meets the evolving needs of its people. Guided by Hutt City Council’s Energy and Carbon Reduction Plan, sustainability was a key priority. The design focuses on inclusivity, cultural connection, and long-term community benefit, with the goal of achieving New Zealand’s first 5-Star Green Star rating for an aquatic facility.
The challenge
Naenae Pool, closed in 2019 due to seismic concerns, was a vital community hub. The closure led to social disconnection and a decline in economic activity in Naenae, with local nearby businesses facing reduced foot traffic. With strong public support for a rebuild, the Council set out to create a facility that was sustainable, culturally meaningful and future-proof. The project aimed to drive economic recovery and social wellbeing while preserving Naenae’s identity.
Our response
We supported the delivery, working alongside lead consultant for the project, Architecture HDT, who led the team across multiple disciplines to help bring Hutt City Council’s vision to life.
We contributed civil, structural and geotechnical engineering expertise as part of a wider team coordinated by Architecture HDT, who led the overall building design, ambience and aesthetic.
We focused on being flexible and responsive, adapting the designs to suit the project’s staging and construction approach, while also finding smart, sustainable solutions. Updated ground conditions, for example, allowed us to move to shallow foundations, reducing both cost and environmental impact. We also supported value engineering workshops to help identify savings without compromising the integrity or vision of the design.
The facility provides the community with an Olympic-sized pool, children’s warm water pool, hydro slide, spa, fitness centre, and flexible spaces for community use.
Supporting the local economy was also important. Materials were sourced locally wherever possible, including glulam timber from Levin, steel from Petone, and hydro slide tubes made in Taitā.
Much of the demolition material from the old facility was repurposed, and the new roof was thoughtfully designed to be solar-ready.
The impact
The new Te Ngaengae Pool and Fitness Centre is a vibrant, high-quality space that supports wellbeing, reflects local culture, and helps revitalise the town centre.
The facility is a symbol of pride and resilience - integrating local art, whakapapa and identity into its design. Most importantly, it has helped restore the heart of the community, creating a place for people to come together.