Kai Tahi Porirua

Kai Tahi in Porirua, New Zealand, is a vibrant new community gathering place designed by Chris Moller and MacKay Curtis Architects. The development features a long timber-framed dining and market space clad with ETFE roof and facade cushions.

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Project Overview

ETFE New Zealand: Kai Tahi Porirua features a 442 m² ETFE roof and facade system that provides light, weather protection and sustainability for a community dining and retail hub. Vector Foiltec Asia Pacific collaborated closely with the client and design team to integrate the ETFE system into the project’s vision, ensuring comfort, shelter and durability in a challenging coastal environment

New Zealand

Country

442

m²

of ETFE

2024

Completed

Chris Moller – MacKay Curtis Architects

Architects

At a Glance – ETFE at Kai Tahi Porirua

442 m² ETFE roof and facade system covering the dining and retail arcade.
Designed for a coastal environment with high winds, UV exposure and seismic activity.
Triangular ETFE cushions deliver filtered natural light and comfort for occupants.
ETFE supports comfort and weather protection while maintaining visual openness.
Sustainability benefits include fully recyclable materials and low embodied energy.
Designed and installed by Vector Foiltec Asia Pacific in collaboration with the design team.

442 m²

of ETFE

The Story of the Project

ETFE Roof and Facade for Community Space

Key design considerations included high wind loads, proximity to the sea, strong UV exposure and seismic activity – all typical of the Porirua region. The triangular ETFE cushions allow filtered natural light into the space during the day while enclosing the area at night. This approach protects visitors from variable weather conditions while maintaining a comfortable environment.

Sustainability and Material Performance

Sustainability benefits include fully recyclable materials and low embodied energy.

ETFE was selected for its sustainability advantages: materials that are fully recyclable, low embodied energy and a reduced carbon footprint. These benefits support the project’s environmental goals while contributing to long-term performance in a marine-exposed location. The lightweight ETFE envelope works harmoniously with the timber structure, enhancing openness and allowing for large panel sizes without heavy framing.

The result is a welcoming dining and retail hub where the community can gather, sheltered from the elements yet visually connected to the outdoors – a space that reflects both local context and architectural intent.