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Ngati Hine Health Trust’s radical Te Mirumiru early childcare centre in Kawakawa has been nominated for a prestigious international award.
It’s in line for the Leadership in Sustainable Design and Performance section of the World Green Building Council’s first Asia Pacific Regional Network Leadership Awards.
Architect Phil Smith of CASA Architects says it’s New Zealand’s first commercial earth bank building.
The earth roof means minimal heat loss in winter and passive cooling in summer, with all spaces naturally day-lit and need no additional electrical lighting during the day.
Water collected on site irrigates the roof.
Council chief executive Jane Henley says it’s an outstanding example of a building that not only accommodates the next generation, but also engages and educates children about their culture, customs and the environment.
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