Gateway junction: Opening an invitation to Tongariro National Park, through a multi-faceted 'transit-network' in Ohakune
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Authors
Olivier, Henrietta
Author ORCID Profiles (clickable)
Degree
Master of Architecture (Professional)
Grantor
Unitec, Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology
Date
2025
Supervisors
McConchie, Graeme
Francis, Kerry
Francis, Kerry
Type
Masters Thesis
Ngā Upoko Tukutuku (Māori subject headings)
Keyword
Ohakune (N.Z.)
Tongariro National Park (N.Z.)
New Zealand
ski resorts
cultural centres
rural tourism
rural revitalisation
tourism
sustainable transport
community development
climate change
Tongariro National Park (N.Z.)
New Zealand
ski resorts
cultural centres
rural tourism
rural revitalisation
tourism
sustainable transport
community development
climate change
ANZSRC Field of Research Code (2020)
Citation
Olivier, H. (2025) Gateway junction: Opening an invitation to Tongariro National Park, through a multi-faceted 'transit-network' in Ohakune (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional)). Unitec, Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology
https://hdl.handle.net/10652/7237
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION
How can the implementation of a new multi-mode "transit" hub in Ohakune contribute to the sustainability of the mountain base town and the. surrounding region?
ABSTRACT
This architectural thesis investigates how a reconceptualised approach to "transit" can support the revitalisation of Ohakune, a town located at the gateway to Tongariro National Park in New Zealand. With the traditional tourism models in decline due to climate change and shifting recreational habits, the region faces growing challenges in maintaining economic viability and cultural identity. The primary focus of this thesis is the design of a Multi-Mode ‘Transit’ Hub, which redefines the conventional understanding of ‘Transit’ by combining physical, experiential, and symbolic dimensions. Idiolectally, ‘Transit’ has formerly been described as the act of moving people from one location to another. However, this thesis aims to broaden that definition, to disrupt the status quo and encompass not only the physical movement of people but also the experiential and symbolic aspects of the movement between places.
Three key interventions will be discussed as the idealist resolution to improving the economic hardship which Ohakune faces due to the decreasing tourism industry. A climate-controlled indoor ski field, a modular van village for mobile and seasonal residents, and a phased cultural centre. Together, these elements form a network of architectural moments, each of which primarily aims to connect its users to the raw intricacies of nature. Secondly, these three spaces are designed to further influence the urban context of Ohakune, each contributing to a layered narrative of regeneration, accessibility, and community connectiveness. Informed by environmental analysis, regional precedent studies, and Māori design principles, the proposal responds to both physical constraints and cultural obligations. Through materiality, sequencing, and spatial storytelling, the thesis proposes a vision for regional development that is adaptable, place-specific, and environmentally responsible. Sustainable tourism and architectural interventions in rural Aotearoa have proven to be greatly intertwined, offering a model for future design that integrates infrastructure with identity, enabling a community to unveil desirable destination features. Since early 2019, Boffa Miskell, an environmental planning and design consultancy, has also been involved in transforming the town to bring life back into the town, due to their extensive research and the work which they have already implemented. A major focus of the project is working in alignment with the works already completed, as well as the proposed works to come.
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