Completion Date: 2003 | Fabric Area M2: 620 | Fabric Type: PVC-PES
The Matiatia ferry terminal on Waiheke Island is the main arrival point for the regular passenger ferries from Auckland. Having undergone a major upgrade it now provides improved facilities and comfort for passengers - with a striking nautical design providing a fitting gateway to the island.
In close consultation with the architect, Structurflex designed a series of tension membrane structures that are both highly functional and visually appealing. The end design is unique in that it slopes up on one side to allow the connecting buses underneath, while the other side is lowered to provide cover for pedestrians from the road to the ferry.
Through the use of tension membranes, passengers can enjoy cool shade in summer and shelter from the elements in winter. And unlike other covered walkways, the high level of natural light means it doesn't detract from the natural surroundings, enabling passengers to enjoy a sense of being outside without being exposed to the elements. The tension membrane's self-cleaning properties in rain keeps the covers clean so they look as crisp as they did when first installed.
Off-site pre-manufacturing meant that installation of the tension membrane structure was very quick and caused no disruption whatsoever to passengers - unlike other materials that take much longer to erect and can emit a lot of dust or noise during construction. And because the low bulk of the individual components is so low, transporting the materials to the island was not a problem.
The end result is a ferry terminal that has succeeded in its dual purpose of providing a more comfortable environment for passengers, while providing an attractive gateway to Waiheke Island.
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