“We are thrilled to receive these prestigious Green Star ratings for our new Parliament buildings. This achievement underscores our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. These buildings will not only provide a healthier and more productive environment for our staff but also contribute to New Zealand’s broader goals of reducing energy use and emissions,” says David Wills, Future Accommodation Project Director of Parliamentary Service.

Designed by Studio Pacific Architecture, the buildings are part of Parliament’s Future Accommodation Strategy, a program aimed at modernising and expanding the parliamentary precinct to better serve the needs of Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff.

Wills says he initiative “aims to secure, an efficient, and climate-friendly environment that reflects New Zealand’s heritage and culture.”

NZGBC chief executive Andrew Eagles says “The Ballantrae Place Building and the Museum Street Building both achieved the highest possible Green Star certification from the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC), with a 6 Star rating reserved for buildings demonstrating world-leading approaches to sustainable design and construction. It’s a huge testament to the outstanding efforts of the Parliamentary Service and the wider team to create buildings that set a benchmark for sustainability in the capital.”

He continues “Just as the Beehive is instantly recognisable for its unique design, these new parliament buildings are set to become icons of sustainability. They highlight New Zealand’s dedication to environmentally friendly practices and we applaud Parliamentary Service for their visionary approach and commitment to creating buildings that are both functional and green.”

Key sustainable highlights include:

• Energy efficiency: Both buildings are designed to significantly reduce energy consumption. Museum St building is predicted to reduce energy use by 47%, have 52% lower peak electricity demand, and slash greenhouse gas emissions by 83% compared to standard building. Ballantrae Place Building is predicted to reduce energy use by 29%, have 40% lower peak electricity demand, and slash greenhouse gas emissions by 49% compared to standard building.
• Use of New Zealand timber: Locally sourced timber from around New Zealand supports New Zealand jobs and manufacturing.
• Healthy indoor environment: Focus on good air quality, daylight, and acoustics to enhance staff productivity and well-being.
• Waste reduction: Emphasis on recycling and reusing materials to minimise waste sent to landfill.
• Water conservation: Predicted reduction in potable water consumption by approximately 51% for the Museum St building and 84% for Ballantrae Place building compared to reference buildings.
• Transport and accessibility: Excellent access to public transport, reduced car parking spaces, and facilities for electric vehicles and bicycles.

The buildings are expected to welcome members and associated parliamentary staff in 2027.

(The project’s Green Star certification, overseen by Green Star Accredited Professionals at Aurecon, is an interim design rating, with a final rating provided once the build is complete.)