Reflecting a new approach to policing, the Cambridge Community Police Hub brings an innovative design concept which also meets strict Police standards. "It was important the new building did not recreate the existing institutional architecture of previous New Zealand Police buildings," says architect Richard Mauriohooho of PAUA Architects. "Instead, it has a strong presence, incorporating cultural values of Waikato-Tainui and Maori cultural concepts into the overall design."

The building amplifies the connection to Te Awa o Waikato, Te Koo Utu and Karaapiro for Waikato-Tainui, who are partners in the project, while also fulfilling the necessary standards of access, safety and security.

The hub comprises two separate forms, based on the concept of a waka haurua or waka ama (double-hulled waka): the main ‘waka’ form is the Police workspace, while the ama side arm is public-facing. Both share the concept of water as a physical and spiritual life source, and this is reflected in the interior design: river pebbles have been cast into the lobby floor, and carpet tiles are arranged to represent the river flowing through.

"The concept of the waka was chosen as a link to water and to represent the collaboration of Waikato-Tainui and New Zealand Police on this journey," says Mauriohooho.

Both the interior and exterior are replete with cultural iconography whilst incorporating all functional requirements for the building’s purpose. The use of CoralTread at the entryway provides a durable and absorbent entrance matting to minimise tracked-in dirt and moisture, protecting the beautiful design and other floor coverings.

CoralTread is a stylish, low-profile entrance matting that is Declare- and Global GreenTag- certified. Alongside PAUA Architects’ choice to incorporate recycled brick and timber within the building, they selected CoralTread for its performance and environmental credentials.