Manukura is a unique, specialist school that focuses on three key aspects: sports, academia, and Kaupapa Maori. Neighbouring Massey University in Palmerston North, Manukura offers a modern learning environment, state-of-the-art sports facilities, and a wharekai. The team at T&R assisted architects Designgroup Stapleton Elliott throughout the specification process.

“Academic studies are housed in ‘learning hubs’ which are split into two communities, each centred around a group gathering space with further specialist spaces in-between. These hubs are connected around a lobby space that is used for whole school gatherings, eating breakfast and lunch, as well as being a general learning and admin space.” — Designgroup Stapleton Elliott.

Providing high-performing yet durable acoustic products was an immensely important factor for this project. T&R’s Phonic Combo + Ceiling Tile was selected for the classrooms and numerous areas of the school, creating an excellent acoustic environment for learning. Phonic Combo + is a high-performing ceiling tile that achieves an NRC of 0.85 and a minimum CAC of 42. It is comprised of an absorptive layer and an attenuating backer that reduces sound transfer and rain noise from roofing.

The gymnasium featured Phonic Impact Ceiling Tiles with the Robo-clip system to ensure the ceiling could withstand knocks and ball impact whilst absorbing excess noise. Phonic Impact’s compound, high-density glass-wool design results in a durable and high-quality acoustic ceiling tile.

Phonic Tech Ceiling Tile was chosen for the food technology and art classrooms due to its durability.

Phonic Tech’s unique strong woven fibreglass face makes it wipeable, stain-resistant and is proven to prevent growth of microbial activity.

For Green Star rated projects, Phonic meets the Greenguard Emission Certificate standard.