University of Auckland – Hiwa, Recreation Centre
Auckland, New Zealand
Project Overview
The University of Auckland recently introduced the Hiwa, Recreation Centre, a brand-new, eight-storey facility designed to elevate student life and promote active well-being. Spanning an impressive 26,000 square metres, this modern recreation centre offers a diverse range of fitness, sports, and leisure amenities.
A Hub for Health and Wellness
The Hiwa, Recreation Centre is a standout addition to the university, providing students, staff, and the community with top-tier recreational spaces, including:
- State-of-the-art Aquatics Hall featuring a Natare 33x20m, 8-lane swimming pool with a dive well, spa pool, and polished stainless steel walls and flooring for durability and hygiene.
- Rooftop multi-sport area, complete with a running track, workout spaces, and social zones, all with panoramic city views.
- Gym and exercise studios equipped with the latest fitness technology.
- Indoor sports halls for basketball, volleyball, and other activities.
- Bouldering wall for climbing enthusiasts.
- Squash courts for competitive and casual play.
- Chill spaces designed for relaxation and social interaction.
- Café and retail outlet for convenience and community engagement.
- Flexible event spaces for hosting a variety of activities.
Designed for a Growing University
With the university’s student population growing from 10,000 in 1978 to over 46,000 today, the previous recreation centre had outgrown its capacity. The new Hiwa, Recreation Centre was built to meet evolving needs, improve accessibility, and provide a modern environment for students to stay active and engaged.
The design of Hiwa was guided by student and staff feedback, ensuring it fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus experience. The goal is to create a “sticky” campus, where students are encouraged to stay longer, participate in activities, and build community connections through sports and wellness.
Innovative Solutions for an Exceptional Facility
The aquatic features of the centre include advanced solutions such as:
- All-welded stainless steel pools for durability and hygiene.
- Moving Bulkhead for flexible pool configurations.
- Vacuum Sand Filtration for superior water quality.
- Efficient gutter systems for water management.
- Slip-resistant pool ramps to ensure accessibility for all users.
Developed through a partnership of more than 20 organizations, including Natare Pools, the Hiwa, Recreation Centre reflects a shared commitment to student well-being and community engagement.
The centre officially opened in November 2024, marking a significant milestone in the University of Auckland’s vision for an active and connected student experience.
