Mystery Creek makeover closer

Fieldays now has a blueprint for the site’s future, Louise Risk reports ‘‘The flexibility and scalability in which we can use the site can include many natural elements such as the Waikato River, embankments, water features and land contours.’’

A 20-year, multimillion-dollar development of Mystery Creek Events Centre has moved a step closer to fruition, with the announcement of the winner of the society’s design challenge.

The event centre’s owners, the National Fieldays Society, ran a Master Plan Design Challenge seeking groups keen to give their independent and expert input into developing the 88-hectare property.

The competition opened in March and attracted 11 entries from national and international architects, urban designers and planners.

Engineering consultants Beca edged out the two other finalists, GHD Ltd and Hamilton company MOAA Architects, to win the 20-year redevelopment consultation project.

National Fieldays Society chief executive Jon Calder said the master plan provided a blueprint for the development of Mystery Creek.

Mr Calder said the plan addressed key aspects such as growth of exhibition space and enhancement of some of the property’s natural features, and Beca had shown great attention to detail and a comprehensive understanding of how the project could unfold over time.

‘‘The flexibility and scalability in which we can use the site can include many natural elements such as the Waikato River, embankments, water features and land contours,’’ he said.

‘‘Creating an events complex that meets the needs of the many and varied events we host enables us to move closer to our vision of being recognised as a leader in designing and delivering world class event solutions.’’

Richard Douch, manager of Beca Hamilton, said he was unsure why Beca beat the other two firms, but he knew his team had approached the task with flexibility in mind.

Mr Douch said the majority of the work over the next two decades would be carried out by the 200 Beca staff in Hamilton and Tauranga, but they also had 1000 staff in Auckland plus many more further afield who could be called on if needed. ‘‘Our philosophy is to bring the best of Beca to our client, no matter where they are based.’’

Mr Douch said the other two finalists’ submissions, which were also on display at the award ceremony yesterday were ‘‘really cool’’.

‘‘In terms of what it means for Beca’s profile, it’s huge.’’

He said projects on this scale were not unheard of, but they were rare.

‘‘Definitely in terms of scale and tourism activities.’’

Mr Douch said most master plans were for commercial, industrial or residential areas, so it was exciting to be able to work on a site that delivered event and tourism opportunities.