New Zealand Architectural Gem Threatened
An important piece of New Zealand’s indigenous architectural history is in danger of being lost. The 1985 home of the renowned late Maori architect Rewi Thompson, located in the chichi urban coastal suburb of Kohimarama, Auckland, is for sale, with the real estate advertisement encouraging prospective buyers to “demolish and build your dream home!”
The modernist and brutalist–inflected building, which the architect designed and lived in until his death last year, is charged with cultural meaning, with a stepped shape recalling poutama, a pattern often present in Maori meeting houses representing ascent to knowledge. Bids for 34 Southern Cross Rd are open until November 30 unless sold prior.
