Okere Falls Wharepaku

2023 WINNER. KEEP NEW ZEALAND BEAUTIFUL - BEST LOO Southern Draught was engaged by the Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve Board to design a refurbished toilet block to accommodate the growing number of visitors to the area. The space needed to feel welcoming and light while maintaining function & durability. It had to be easy to clean and hard to damage. We felt that it was important to use what we could of the existing structure therefore minimising waste and maximising environmental sustainability. We wanted to embrace the local culture and heritage, and be respectful of the areas rich history. We engaged a local artist to tell a story of the areas culture on the laser cut steel screens atop of the shuttered concrete walls. The screens double as light filters and security barriers. Timber battens were fixed over two steel skeleton hinged doors to enable the wharepaku to be locked up when required. Images by socialfocusnz Client :  Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve Board Location : Okere Falls