Amohia Ake, the newly developed ACC Centre in Hamilton, has made history by becoming the first building in the Waikato region to achieve a prestigious 6-star NABERSNZ rating. This recognition, awarded by the New Zealand Green Building Council, signifies the highest level of energy efficiency for office buildings in the country. Developed by Tainui Group Holdings, Amohia Ake stands out as one of only a handful of buildings in Aotearoa to reach this top-tier certification, demonstrating an impressive 80% reduction in energy consumption compared to a typical office building.
The significance of this achievement extends beyond sustainability—it sets a new benchmark for energy-efficient commercial spaces in New Zealand. Andrew Eagles, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Green Building Council, commended the project, emphasizing that such a high rating is a testament to the commitment and innovation behind its design. The building, which is owned by Tainui Group Holdings and leased by ACC, showcases how prioritizing efficiency can benefit not only the environment but also the tenants and broader community.
Tainui Group Holdings’ Acting CEO, Richard Jefferies, highlighted the alignment between this milestone and the company’s dedication to kaitiakitanga, or environmental stewardship. The iwi-led organization has consistently focused on sustainable development, ensuring that its properties contribute positively to both economic and ecological well-being. Achieving the 6-star rating underscores their mission to create high-performing buildings that support long-term sustainability while delivering practical benefits for occupants.
A key factor in the success of Amohia Ake’s energy performance was the collaboration with engineering consultants from Beca. The building operates entirely on electricity, with no reliance on gas or fossil fuels for heating or hot water. Ben Masters, who leads Beca’s Sustainable Buildings team, explained that smart design features—including an efficient building envelope, low-energy systems, and continuous fine-tuning—have enabled remarkable energy savings. By using significantly less energy, the building not only reduces emissions but also cuts operational costs for Tainui Group Holdings and ACC.
With over 800 ACC staff working in the building, the energy-efficient design offers both environmental and financial advantages. Stewart McRobie, ACC’s Deputy Chief Executive for Corporate and Finance, expressed enthusiasm about the positive impact of the building’s sustainability features. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering energy expenses, Amohia Ake supports ACC’s broader mission of enhancing the well-being of communities across Aotearoa. This milestone serves as a powerful example of how sustainable design can create long-lasting benefits for businesses, tenants, and the environment alike.