ARATAKI VISITOR'S CENTRE EXPERIENCE

A proposal for a unique experiential volcanic walk, to educate, discover and relax, located deep in the volcanic-formed Waitakere ranges.

The extinction of New Zealand’s Kauri trees is looming, and the majority of us remain ignorant to the matter. Kauri dieback disease is killing off Kauri forests one-by-one, yet tourists and locals, turn a blind eye to the decontamination signage. Te Kawerau-ā-Maki have worked closely with the council and have placed a rāhui (ban) on the tracks within the affected Waitakere ranges, forcing people to stop using them.

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So I propose a walkway, extending from an existing lookout based on the top level of the Arataki visitors centre. My concept will encourage people to experience the nature and beauty of the site, without harming it. I aim to encourage the public to respect the site, and for my addition to showcase the existing beauty without obstructing the organic landscape from a submerged perspective. This structure is biomimetically designed because its interiors have a strong correlation with volcanic natural form. I will also explore how light will interact with this geologically inspired space and how the natural lighting or lack of, can create mood and effect within a space.