61 Molesworth Street

A $207m development at 61 Molesworth Street in Wellington, NZ, aims to satisfy the growing demand for A-grade workspace in the city centre.  

RCP has been engaged as the design and delivery project manager, including managing the resource consent, and cultural engagement and is acting as the Contract Administrator.  

Following its programme analysis at the tender stage, RCP identified an opportunity to save 10 weeks in the programme by fine-tuning the construction methodology. 

The new 12-storey office block will deliver a seismically resilient, environmentally focused commercial office building with ground-floor amenities including a lobby cafe, meeting spaces and end-of-trip facilities. 

The building’s structural design will integrate advanced earthquake-resistant technologies, such as fluid viscous dampers, which will deliver performance over the Building Code’s minimum standards. 

Extensive wind tunnel testing has greatly influenced the building’s distinctive form. The tower will be enveloped in high-performance glass, which will be crafted into vertical ‘pleats’ to mitigate the effects of Wellington's strong winds.  

The generous floor plates coupled with a fully glazed exterior will enable panoramic views across the city and Wellington Harbour. The 78,740 sq ft building will become home to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which will occupy about half the building area.

Demolition of the former building is complete and enabling works are underway on site. The building is due for completion in 2025.