4 - ohakune chalets  Ohakune 


BACKGROUND: Ohakune township is at the heart of NZ’s wilderness alpine adventure regions. With Mt Ruapehu, the highest mountain in the North Island and the ‘Skiing capital”, is the focus of one of the world’s first Heritage Parks.


Winner of 2004 Master Builders Award.


BRIEF: To develop an Alpine Retreat in Ohakune with a point of difference, optimise site development and enhance the wilderness/adventure lifestyle of the region.


SOLUTION: 3 Chalets designed to sit together as a group and as part of the Ohakune community. Each is standalone and aesthetically simple. The iconic form mimicking the mountains with a traditional steep-pitched roof and simple lines is complemented by the silver corrugated iron cladding reflective of NZ’s rural vernacular. The interior has big volumes, mezzanines and lofts creating an exciting living environment with an open fire and direct views to the mountain.


It has become a sought-after holiday retreat and the success has given confidence and a catalyst for similar developments.