Central Energy Trust Arena (CETA)

Extending the ‘place for everyone’ theme, Rangitāne gifted he aho tangata the threads that bind us as the central guiding kaupapa. "In a modern context, the whakatauki embraces all our communities as one, under the kaupapa of rangimarie, the mantle of peace." The proverb also refers to the technique for weaving kāhu, or cloaks. Significant representations include a taniko border comprised of triangular configurations known as niho, which here signify the relationship with the Manawatū landscape.

He kāhu the cloak is placed over CETA creating a safe, welcoming space for the community and visitors. He kāhu the cloak ‘laid down over the land’ informs the site’s strong angular typography.

The entrance is open and inviting, low edges define the space. He kāhu elevated 600mm above the street is grounded with stone and niho pathways that ‘zig zag’ visitors through a grove of kowhai, elevating them to bridge level. Strong tāniko borders add texture and depth and are decorative details woven within the cloak’s structure, visible on seating, walls and fencing. The footbridge, laced with timber, is a thread raising visitors from he kāhu into the main arena creating both a sense of expectation, and a moment of peace and pause before the action. Illuminated and activated by digital displays, the bridge lifts visitors above the activity of speedway with a subtle curve to reveal the main arena. The stands rise.