Tourism New Zealand

The brief called for a workplace that embodies Tourism New Zealand’s role in promoting Aotearoa to the world while supporting their Auckland team. The design narrative, Aotearoa: A Journey Through Nature, Culture, and People, celebrates our landscapes, stories, and communities. Stone greys, natural timbers, and warm whites are layered with deep greens, earthy terracottas, and woven textures, with accents of ochre and soft blue creating a palette that is distinctly New Zealand. 

Studio DB worked closely with stakeholders to shape a workplace strategy that balances open plan work areas with a boardroom, a range of meeting and focus spaces, and a dedicated wellness room. Delivered through Studio DB’s Futureproof. Sustainable. Deliver.® methodology, one integrated team owned the project from strategy and budgeting through to construction, giving Tourism New Zealand a single point of accountability. 

The experience starts in the lift lobbies, where timber panelling and warm lighting lead to a glazed entry that greets everyone with “Kia ora”. The arrival lounge sets the tone with bench seating, a welcome screen, and integrated signage, while the front of house boardroom showcases the brand to visiting partners. Meeting rooms feature acoustic panelling and a fabric-inspired glazing manifestation referencing traditional weaving, and the refresh extended to the bathrooms to carry the narrative through every part of the floor. 

At the heart of the floor, a flexible townhall with tiered seating and movable furniture hosts full team gatherings, connecting to the kitchen where the existing kai and kōrero table anchors a social hub. Existing ceilings, joinery, lockers, and planter storage were retained and refreshed, reducing waste and reflecting a shared commitment to sustainability. The result is a workplace that is authentic, welcoming, and uniquely of this place.