Projects > Aro Ha Retreat


A new build eco-retreat at Glenorchy which includes accommodation, spa, yoga facilities and a community building for dining.

The facility was designed to be net-zero energy. Our strategy was firstly to optimise the building fabric to reduce heating requirements and then serve the site through renewable means. This includes a 40kW micro-hydro turbine and 75kW PV array for electricity generation (including battery backup to cover grid failure), wood boiler, and 24m2 of solar hot water collection.

Water is provided via a bore pump and, due to the aspirational growing aims of permaculture and high water demand, site-wide irrigation tanks were fed from rainwater collection systems. Wastewater pipework has also been installed in such a manner to allow for greywater recycling in the future if required.



Roles

  • Sustainability Advice
  • All Building Services

Architects

  • Tennent and Brown

Renewables

  • Hydro
  • Solar
  • Natural Ventilation
  • Bio-Fuel