Wellington Regional Children's Hospital

In 2022, Wellington proudly opened the doors to its new $110 million children's hospital, Te Wao Nui. Designed by Studio Design + Architecture, this state-of-the-art facility represents a significant milestone for child health services in the region. Te Wao Nui brings together a comprehensive range of child health services under one roof, ensuring that young patients and their families have access to holistic care in a warm and welcoming environment.

The hospital’s success illustrates the remarkable generosity of philanthropists Mark Dunajtschik and Dorothy Spotswood, affectionately known as Wellington’s "fairy godparents." They donated $53 million to help bring this vision to life.

Named after Te Wao Nui a Tāne (The Great Forest of Tāne), the hospital is designed as a sanctuary for healing, reflecting the cultural and life-giving significance of the forest in Māori culture.

The design includes forest murals, the "tree of life" concept, and kaitiaki whānau (guardian families) motifs. These elements create an environment that is culturally meaningful and comforting for children and their families. The project involved local tamariki, CCDHB’s Māori Partnership Board, and Wellington Hospitals Foundation in a collaborative effort to ensure that the hospital is deeply rooted in the community.

Spanning over 7,200 square meters and spread across three floors, Te Wao Nui features 151 beds, with private rooms ensuring comfort and infection control. The facility offers outpatient consultation rooms, therapeutic gyms, specialty services, and dedicated spaces for families, such as kitchens, play areas, and a teen lounge. The outdoor playscapes and culturally inspired design create a welcoming environment for children and their families during their healthcare journey.

Te Wao Nui incorporates technology not only into medical care but also into the patient experience. The hospital includes a large interactive game wall that offers both distraction and physical activity for children, helping to reduce anxiety during visits. Additionally, the facility features a responsive donor wall that recognises contributions in real-time, reflecting the ongoing support of the community.

The public spaces feature Shaw Contract’s Plane Hexagon carpet tile, adding pops of bright color and personality to the interior. Jacbosen recommended Tarkett Granit Safe. T for heavy-traffic wet areas where safety is crucial. It provides a confident grip and reduces the risk of slipping in bathrooms and other wet areas. Other featured products include Acczent Excellence, a heavy-traffic compact heterogeneous vinyl, and Tredsafe stair nosings for added safety on stairways.

Te Wao Nui provides high-quality paediatric healthcare in a nurturing and culturally rich setting. This pioneering facility signifies a new chapter in children's healthcare services in Wellington. As children and their families enter the hospital, they are embraced by a space crafted to promote healing, comfort, and connection.