Overview
Transformation of used relocatable classrooms into a modern, fully functioning facility supporting mental health and addiction services in Raahui Pookeka (Huntly).
The refurbished 600m² space includes a welcoming reception, day clinics, offices, staff and public amenities, and a landscaped courtyard connecting the buildings - a design that encourages interaction, dignity, and community connection.
About the project
With capacity to see up to 50 patients a day and house 30 permanent staff, the hub will also host visiting clinicians, improving access to care for the wider community.
Delivered in partnership between Foster Maintain and the Matawhaanui Trust, the project reflects a shared commitment to community-led outcomes. The Trust’s people were involved throughout, ensuring cultural relevance, local participation, and a design that truly reflects the aspirations of Raahui Pookeka.
Fosters was brought into the project partway through, inheriting the relocated classrooms that required extensive remediation before fitout could begin.
Working closely with the Trust, Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand) and the wider consultant team, Fosters led the structural, compliance, and services upgrades needed to bring the buildings up to modern health facility standards - while respecting budget, community goals and key cultural considerations.
Client testimonial
Joyce Maipi, General Manager of Matawhaanui Trust says the alignment in values was critical to the success of this project.
“I really want to thank the Fosters team, who were culturally aligned with our vision and had a genuine affinity with the outcomes we wanted for our community,” she said. "They provided absolutely the right people for this job. The site team worked so well on the ground, while management saw the vision and worked with our people every step of the way.”
“Fosters supported our local workforce, guided us through the process, and managed the documentation and coordination exceptionally well. They were fantastic to work with.”
