The design reflects the context of the site and its relationship with Lake Rotoroa and Te Awa o Waikato (Waikato River) through use of materiality, planting and the opportunity for cultural markers. The landscape design complements the building’s architecture and form through the use of materials, colours and layout.

Renata Te Wiata, Head of Carving for Waikato-Tainui, created the designs on the glass exterior, pathways and retaining walls, which are distinctive to Waikato iwi, tell the story of the whenua, its crops, and the importance of the nearby Waikato awa and its life-giving waters.

Landscape design opportunities included etched concrete walls and paving, and customised hardwood furniture and signage. The native plant palette selected connects to Te Awa o Waikato, Lake Rotoroa, and the Western Town Belt. Tōtara and kōwhai once dominated the low terraces associated with Te Awa o Waikato, and both tree species have been included in the plant palette.