We are thrilled to receive these prestigiousGreen Star ratings for our new Parliament buildings. This achievement underscores our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. These buildings will not only provide a healthier and more productive environment for our staff but also contribute to New Zealands broader goals of reducing energy use and emissions, says David Wills, Future Accommodation Project Director of Parliamentary Service.Pictured (left to right): Benjamin Sawrey (Aurecon, Sustainability Consultant), Michael Davis (Studio Pacific Architecture, Senior Principal), Andrew Eagles (NZGBC Chief Executive), Marcus Welby (Aurecon, Principal), Mitch Knight (Parliamentary Service Deputy Chief Executive), Dave Wills (Parliamentary Service Future Accommodation Strategy Project Director), Karl Wakelin (Aurecon, Sustainable Buildings Leader), Jessica-Mae Robertson (Parliamentary Service Future Accommodation Strategy Project Construction Lead), Kerrin Manuel (LT McGuinness Construction Director).Image: SuppliedDesigned by Studio Pacific Architecture, the buildings are part of Parliaments Future Accommodation Strategy, a program aimed at modernising and expanding the parliamentary precinct to better serve the needs of Members of Parliament and parliamentarystaff.Wills says he initiative aims to secure, an efficient, and climate-friendly environment that reflects New Zealands heritage andculture.NZGBC chief executive Andrew Eagles says The Ballantrae Place Building and the Museum Street Building both achieved the highest possible Green Star certification from the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC), with a 6 Star rating reserved for buildings demonstrating world-leading approaches to sustainable design and construction. Its a huge testament to the outstanding efforts of the Parliamentary Service and the wider team to create buildings that set a benchmark for sustainability in thecapital.He continues Just as the Beehive is instantly recognisable for its unique design, these new parliament buildings are set to become icons of sustainability. They highlight New Zealands dedication to environmentally friendly practices and we applaud Parliamentary Service for their visionary approach and commitment to creating buildings that are both functional andgreen.Museum Street BuildingImage: Render: Studio Pacific ArchitectureKey sustainable highlightsinclude:Energy efficiency:Both buildings are designed to significantly reduce energy consumption. Museum St building is predicted to reduce energy use by 47%, have 52% lower peak electricity demand, and slash greenhouse gas emissions by 83% compared to standard building. Ballantrae Place Building is predicted to reduce energy use by 29%, have 40% lower peak electricity demand, and slash greenhouse gas emissions by 49% compared to standardbuilding.Use of New Zealand timber:Locally sourced timber from around New Zealand supports New Zealand jobs andmanufacturing.Healthy indoor environment:Focus on good air quality, daylight, and acoustics to enhance staff productivity andwell-being.Waste reduction:Emphasis on recycling and reusing materials to minimise waste sent tolandfill.Water conservation:Predicted reduction in potable water consumption by approximately 51% for the Museum St building and 84% for Ballantrae Place building compared to referencebuildings.Transport and accessibility:Excellent access to public transport, reduced car parking spaces, and facilities for electric vehicles andbicycles.The buildings are expected to welcome members and associated parliamentary staff in2027.(The projects Green Star certification, overseen by Green Star Accredited Professionals at Aurecon, is an interim design rating, with a final rating provided once the build iscomplete.)