Cenotaph Precinct banner
Project by
Year of completion
2015
Client
Wellington Council Parliamentary Services

The cenotaph is Wellington’s war memorial, honouring the New Zealand dead of the two World Wars. First unveiled on Anzac Day, 25 April 1931, the cenotaph is a Category I registered Historic Place and is today the focus of the city’s Anzac Day commemorations.

One aim of the $2.5 million upgrade was to strengthen the cenotaph’s connection with the adjacent parliament buildings. The two are now linked by a precast concrete staircase that drops down to the cenotaph from just below the Beehive. The staircase has bronze handrails and seating that offers a grandstand view of ceremonial occasions.

The concrete was installed to very tight tolerances so there was close communication with the precast suppliers and careful coordination as it was fitted in place.

Wooden bench seating has been added to the area in front of the cenotaph, which has been opened out and paved with natural stone. The pavers are inset with new artwork by stone artist Joe Sheehan. It consists of small jade disks that trace the path of the Waipiro Stream. Pedestrian traffic in the area is heavy so all work had to keep the public safe while ensuring that live utility services weren’t disrupted.

The cenotaph can now hold nearly 14,000 people, up from 12,000, and it was completed in time for the April 2015 celebrations of the Gallipoli centenary.

Awards and
recognition

2017
NZ Institute of Landscape Architecture Awards
Category Winner, Urban Spaces
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Professionals used in
Cenotaph Precinct

About the
Professional

Our approach is direct, honest and respectful.

People working well together is the key to any successful project. Creating good work environments for everyone involved is our hallmark.

As a family firm, we maintain a traditional building company model with our own carpenters, apprentices, labourers and crane crews. We aim to set an example as an employer and are proud of our extremely low staff turnover.

Our leaders have generally come up through the company. They have a deep understanding of LTM’s unique culture.

At ArchiPro we recognise and acknowledge the existing, original and ancient connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the lands and waterways across the Australian continent. We pay our respects to the elders past and present. We commit to working together to build a prosperous and inclusive Australia.