MFAT Wharenui and Taonga (2025)
Human Dynamo Workshop collaborated with Len Hetet (Waiwhenua Design) to deliver the exterior cladding for the Wharenui at MFAT's new headquarters; as well as tukutuku panel restoration and consultation on the installation of artworks.
Collaborators:
Artist: Len Hetet (Waiwhenua Design)
Developer: Precinct Properties
Architect: Warren and Mahoney
Main Contractor: LT McGuinness
Creative Production Partner: Human Dynamo Workshop
A cultural centrepiece
When the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) relocated to its new headquarters at 55 Molesworth Street in 2025, it rebuilt one of organisation's most significant cultural treasures - its Wharenui. The Wharenui is a space that welcomes international visitors and represents Aotearoa on the world stage. It plays an important role within MFAT, expressing New Zealand's identity, culture and values.
Working closely with Len Hetet (Waiwhenua Design) from the earliest stages of the project, we provided the distinctive curved exterior cladding for MFAT's new Wharenui, supporting the process from concept through to completion.
The cladding features Len Hetet's Pākati Haehae relief pattern, precisely carved into thermally modified pine and installed as individual panels around the curved form of the Wharenui. Maintaining consistent carving depth, crisp detail and seamless pattern alignment across the curve demanded careful digital modelling, precision CNC carving and meticulous installation.
Crafted for longevity
Chosen for its durability and longevity, thermally modified pine provided a high-performance finish aligned with the building's ambitious sustainability goals. Throughout the day, changing light animates the carved relief, giving the Wharenui an ever-changing presence.
Supporting the taonga
Beyond the exterior cladding, our team reinforced the relocated tukutuku panels and provided consultation on the mounting of the artworks. We worked alongside mana whenua to ensure the artworks could be safely integrated into their new home while respecting their cultural significance.
The result
The result is a contemporary expression of Māori design that honours traditional knowledge while embracing modern materials and processes, creating a fitting cultural centrepiece within one of Aotearoa NZ's most important public buildings.
Image credit: Magdalena Podbielkowska Bisley
