Its a building plonked smack within a carpark with little or no reference to it’s immediate context. (oh, other than it sits near the international terminal gates). No real connection to the airport itself. I suppose W&M didn’t want their building to touch the terminal building – ew germs – and fair enough.

It has an interesting aesthetic. A bit more than a rectangle. Haven’t really seen this sorta thing in AKL or NZ. Unique maybe. I heard it was a copy. But – as an Aucklander and knowing the area – an aesthetic very out of place – the Architects have lost sight/site a bit in this regard. More and more I fell like W&M are creating their own little bubble – it would pay for them to get out a little more.

However, as an international visitor, straight of a plane, quite impressive. And I guess that was the brief.

What I do really like about this one (I have visited it) is that it does feel like something of quality – (leaving context out of it) this does feel Architecturally clean, well resolved and tidily detailed. There are some really nice elements and enjoyable moments. It has a presence (all be it an introspective selfish one), it has a character.

Best of all, the “kiwiana” is subtle and reserved. This idea that we must theme our buildings for tourists so tackily NZ or Maori pains me – its so tacky – Architects as most of the visitors to our buildings have more intelligence than this. Clouds, Weaving, Embracing Arms – none of that – phew. Green Wall – Tick.

Overall – A Good Shag! At the end of the day this is a piece of Architecture which surpasses the norm. More please W&M.