29 Jul 2025
The seismic strengthening of the National War Memorial Carillon at Pukeahu has been recognised at the 2025 SESOC Awards, receiving a Commended in the Heritage and Culture category.
Built in the 1930s, the reinforced concrete tower presented complex structural challenges. The design response combined careful engineering and heritage sensitivity – integrating internal dampers, strengthening brick and timber elements, and structurally separating key components. All of this work was carried out within the constraints of a Category 1 heritage building.
Studio Pacific led the architectural and heritage input for the project, working in close partnership with Holmes Consulting Group and Manatū Taonga – Ministry for Culture and Heritage. The result is a strengthened national monument that respects its original form while meeting contemporary seismic performance standards.
The project was also featured at the 2025 SESOC Conference, where Panos from Holmes presented on the significance of heritage resilience in structural engineering.
Our thanks and congratulations go to all involved: The Ministry of Culture and Heritage, Holmes Consulting, Maycroft Construction, TSA Riley and Whakatiki Engineering
Panos and Julia receiving a 2025 SESOC Commendation in the Heritage and Culture category for the Seismic Strengthening of the National War Memorial Carillon