Overview
The banking cooperative Rabobank has a number of offices throughout New Zealand and wished to relocate their head office from Wellington to Hamilton.
The specialist food and agriculture bank believed Hamilton was a natural fit, as was the Union Square building, where they are one of the first tenants. A business hub is being created in this part of the building at Union Square, with an aim to transform this location in Hamilton into a thriving business community.
About the project
Spaced over two levels, this was a highly customised fitout, featuring an internal glass and timber stairwell to link the ground and first floor business levels, and a specific design reflecting the rural connections and values of Rabobank. Modern and functional artwork (including wall panels and workspace divisions) has been installed throughout the building, and timber and polished concrete have been extensively used throughout.
2021
1,720m2
Client testimonial
Rabobank New Zealand Chief Executive Todd Charteris says Hamilton was a natural fit for the specialist food and agribusiness bank. So, too, was Union Square; the unique experiential workplace being strategically designed to attract business executives and help build Hamilton’s CBD into a thriving business hub.
“Add to this Fosters willingness to understand the needs of our business,” says Todd. “And it’s easy to understand why we chose to work with them.
“Our first requirement was having flexibility for our staff to relocate in line with the school year. Fosters immediately offered temporary office space for us, and that was the icing on the cake.
“We talked through what was important for the office design. One requirement was an internal stairwell to link the business across two levels. That was easily accommodated.
“We were very particular about the fit out, wanting to create a bespoke office space referencing our rural connections. A standout issue, we thought, would be getting woollen carpet rolls (3.6 metres wide) into the space. Fosters simply left a windowpane out, craned it in, and we achieved ‘the impossible’.
“Working with Fosters you come to appreciate their ability to manage different stakeholders in a calm and consultative way, no matter the situation” continues Todd. “Flexibility, professionalism, understanding – these are Fosters strengths. Their commitment to building strong networks across the business community also stands out. We quickly came to realise that Fosters would help us build a comprehensive network in the Waikato.
For Todd, Union Square looks to be a fantastic place. “We have a fabulous office in a very cool building; it far exceeds our initial concept. Once the precinct is finished, I believe Fosters will achieve their vision for that thriving business hub.”
“Flexibility, professionalism, understanding – these are Fosters strengths.”
Todd Charteris, Rabobank New Zealand Chief Executive