That vision is now clearly realised in spaces such as Taakiri Tūū, Te Kōhao’s flagship diagnostic and wellbeing facility. The facility demonstrates how clinical excellence and culturally connected care can sit side by side, and it continues to inspire hauora leaders from across Aotearoa.

Our visit brought together our CEO, Toni Tinirau, our Founder and Board Chair, Daryl Gregory, People and Capability Lead, Rana Holt, and Operations Manager, Zach Muhrer, alongside Nikki and Dennis from Co-Studio, our architectural partners. We were warmly welcomed by Lady Tureiti Moxon, Managing Director, Val Rippey, Pou Hauora, and the wider Te Kōhao team.

The purpose of the visit was to provide our architects and leadership with the opportunity to experience firsthand how values-led care is reflected through physical design. From clinical environments to more holistic spaces, the layout, flow, and functionality across Te Kōhao’s two sites offered practical insight as we progress planning for our new Hauora building in Ōtautahi.

The relationships and openness shared throughout the visit were a highlight. Although brief, the time spent with the Te Kōhao team was both generous and instructive, and the learnings gathered will directly inform how we design a space that supports dignity, accessibility, and wellbeing for whānau in Waitaha.

This haerenga reinforced that buildings are more than structures. When designed well, they actively support models of care, strengthen connection, and enable long-term impact. As we move forward with our Ōtautahi build, the insights gained from Te Kōhao will help guide our thinking around layout, flow, and how people experience care within a space.

We are sincerely grateful to Lady Tureiti, Val, and the Te Kōhao team for their time, leadership, and generosity. We look forward to continuing this relationship and to welcoming Val to Ōtautahi next month, where we can return the manaaki and continue the collective journey ahead.