Structural aspects of Te Whare Nui o Tuteata

The new three storey Hub building at Scion’s campus in Rotorua is an innovative approach to providing seismic resilience in timber. A demonstration project for Scion’s work in the timber industry, it utilises several forms of engineered timber, including an LVL diagrid to provide gravity support and bracing at the perimeter of the floorplates to provide 100% of the building's lateral resistance.

The three-storey wood framed building is named “Te Whare Nui o Tuteata” gifted by Ngā Hapū e Toru who hold mana over the whenua. The name Te Whare Nui o Tuteata acknowledges the mana of the tupuna Tuteata, from whom Ngā Hapū e Toru descend and the connection to the whenua, Titokorangi.

Doug will give a tour and talk about structural aspects of Te Whare Nui o Tuteata, exploring the different wood products used, the novel earthquake damping system, the benefits of timber construction over steel and concrete.

About the speaker

Doug is one of Scion’s principal researchers with 35+ years’ experience, recently leading science areas in timber engineering, timber drying, built environment, wood protection, and wood modification. He started as a structural engineer including 5 years designing steel, masonry and concrete buildings in the UK. Involved with national and international timber standards, product development, industry support.

To get to the venue please drive all the way down Tītokorangi Drive (formerly Long Mile Rd ). The three storey wood framed building 'Te Whare Nui o Tuteata ’ will be clearly visible and parking is available to the left of the building.