New building for mental health and addictions care
Earthworks have begun on the new Te Whare Awhiora – the mental health and addictions care facility.
A karakia was held in September to mark the start of the new build. You can read more about this here.
Developed designs have been approved for the fit-for-purpose building that supports safe (physical and wairua), high quality practice and holistic health and wellness for whānau.
Planned timeline of works
- September to November 2022: Earthworks, clearing of site and construction of new carpark.
- October to March 2022: Works on foundations.
- March 2022 to March 2023: Construction of building.
The Purpose
Te Whatu Ora Tairāwhiti Mental Health and Addiction Services provide assessment, intervention and support for those adults and older adults experiencing mental illness and/or addiction issues. The aim of the service is to minimise disruption to the lives of these people and their families, hence the majority of services are delivered in the community with inpatient services available if necessary.
The Design - putting whānau first
Based on the grounds of Gisborne Hospital (in front of the corporate building), the $23.3m project has been designed in partnership with mana whenua, staff, stakeholders and local artist Nick Tupara.
The facility will be a welcoming whare, with 10 beds, whānau spaces, flexible therapy rooms and a specially designed outdoor courtyard to embed connection with nature within the building. A key element of the design was the model of care, focussed on whānau (family) engagement, powhiri (welcoming) and putting whānau first.
Mode Design and Architects 44 are leading the design process. The project is being led by Te Whatu Ora's Infrastructure and Investment Group and is funded by the government.
Biophilic Design - connecting with nature
The facility embraces a biophilic design that connects visitors and staff to the natural environment.
The building will gain both Zero Energy and Core Green certifications, international benchmarks in sustainability. This will reduce the ongoing cost and impact of the building on the Tairāwhiti community.