Peter Engstrom, of Jasmax, works on the principle that for the public using a transport system is a civic experience and should be accorded the same degree of design consideration as a public library or major art gallery.

The station, which features a striking glass curtainwall by Vantage manufacturer, Wight Aluminium, was designed by Aurecon, with architectural design by Jasmax. Peter Engstrom was project lead for Jasmax and has previously worked on award-winning transport projects in Asia and the Middle East.

"Improving the quality of the passenger experience has been key to our design of Puhinui Station," he says. "The station’s planning and dramatic roof form mirror the flow of passengers to enable easy and intuitive navigation. The inviting, future-proofed design is also intended to support a neighbourhood hub for the local community."

Puhinui Station has been completely transformed from a suburban railway station into a state-of-the-art, rapid transit interchange. As part of Auckland Transport’s Airport-to-Botany Rapid Transit project, the station connects passengers to and from Auckland Airport in just 10 minutes and introduces a new gateway from South Auckland into the city.

A raking Vantage curtain wall in 175mm Structural Glaze panels was installed on three sides of the building at escalator and concourse levels. This had the unusual feature on the 'showcase' northern side, of having glass that finished 300mm below the ceiling to encourage air circulation into the interior and eliminate the need for air conditioning. These openings are protected by the station’s overhanging roof, which delivers shade and protection from wind-driven rain. Windows from the Vantage 40mm suite were also used on the south side of the concourse around the ticket office and administration section.

Peter Engstrom said that the full height façade by Wight Aluminium maximised natural daylight and introduced a wide vista for building users, "providing passengers views of the bus stops, local surrounds, several Tāmaki Makaurau maunga and even the Sky Tower."

The surface finish for the window profiles was Duratec Matt Charcoal and the glazing on the Structural Glaze façade was 13.2mm clear, heat-strengthened EVA laminate.

The Puhinui Station was constructed by a McConnell Dowell and Built Environs joint venture.