Fale Pasifika
University of Auckland Pacific Island Study Centre
Case Study
UofA commissioned a group of buildings for Pacific Island studies; at the heart of the development is the Fale.
The Fale with its traditional high roof forms appropriately dominates the complex of Pacific Studies buildings. The form and structure is based on the traditional Samoan Fale, and may accommodate 300 people observing the customary seating arrangements for hosts and guests.
It is often said that Auckland is the largest Polynesian city in the world, however few buildings represent this architecturally and thats what makes this project so special.
The project incorporates the work of many well known pacific artists and was the brain child of iconic Jasmax architect Ivan Mercep.
For Project Control Principal Joe Holden the construction of this living piece of art is one of his most cherished, not just because of what it represents but because of the challenges presented in delivering this project in a short time frame and because the building breaks new ground in so many ways.
Joe led a top notch site based team from Ebert Construction and with Joe’s hands on experience and lateral problem solving abilities the job was handed over on time, on budget and with an exceptional level of finish, merging modern technology and traditional technique.
This project has now become a focal point of Pacific island culture and study that has been embraced by the community and university alike.
