Member News October 2015

30 October 2015

Update from Alex: The residential market is humming

The last few months have seen a leap in residential activity – both in terms of opportunities to develop and build, as well as access to information and resources to support doing it well. Read more

Wynyard Central scores first large-scale Homestar rating

This week Willis Bond & Co achieved the first Homestar rating under v3 of the tool, with around 113 residences at Wynyard Central rated at least 7 Homestar. The updated tool, adapted for multi-unit developments, will launch officially on 12 November. Read more

First in Southern Hemisphere

ASB Waterfront Theatre's landmark project will be the first theatre in the Southern Hemisphere designed to gain a Green Star rating. The Custom theatre tool is one of several created by NZGBC for Waterfront Auckland. Read more and Project details

Giltrap Group chooses Green Star

A development including a car showroom in Auckland will be New Zealand's first mixed-use development to use a custom Green Star tool. The Giltrap Group sees certification as part of a long-term environmental commitment.

Wellington supports green building

Wellington is one of a growing number of councils incorporating sustainable rating tools in urban planning strategies. Its updated Development Contributions Policy for 2015-16, adopted on 1 July offers a 50% remission to projects that receive a 5 Green Star Rating or higher refer to section 2.6.5

NZGBC office is shortlisted for green interiors award - wahoo!

Our 5 Green Star fit-out has garnered global attention, with our space in the finals of the International Green Interior Awards. Winners will be announced on 5 November Read more

NABERSNZ starts to be used in lease negotiations

While energy efficiency is not currently seen as a priority for tenants’ commercial space, thermal comfort is. NABERSNZ is starting to appear in lease agreements and many owners are doing behind-the-scenes work, according to NZGBC’s Vanessa McGrath. Read more

Homestar Version 3 launches in November

Attention all Homestar Assessors and designers! The updated tool, adapted for multi-unit developments, will launch officially on 12 November and will be freely downloadable from the NZGBC website.

Around the globe

UN goals for sustainable future of all cities

The UN has adopted goals that include targets for affordable housing and sustainable transport, protecting cultural and natural heritage, and reducing the environmental impact of all cities. Read more

The Edge Amsterdam - world's most sustainable office building?

OVG's multi-tenanted office building scores 'outstanding' 98.36% on its BREAAM new construction certification. Read more