Punangairi Visitors Experience Centre opens at Dolomite Point

Boffa Miskell was involved with the initial funding application; and subsequently delivered design, planning, landscape planning and ecological expertise as part of the resource consenting process.

Stephanie Styles and James Bentley attended the official opening of the Dolomite Point redevelopment project. This redevelopment, on a limestone promontory at Punakaiki is adjacent to the world-renowned pancake-shaped rock formations, blowholes and surge pools.

The Punangairi Visitor Experience Centre, and wider improvements to one of the West Coast's most-visited tourist spots, was part of a government-funded provincial growth fund, applied for by the Department of Conservation and undertaken in partnership with Ngāti Waewae. 

 "Boffa Miskell Limited was involved with the initial funding application of the project to the relevant minister, and then, once successful, subsequently delivered the planning, landscape planning and ecological expertise as part of the resource consenting process," says planner Stephanie Styles. "This project has been a highlight over the last eight years, and it is wonderful to see such an inspiring building in this special place."

Dolomite Point Opportunity Study (2016) was prepared by Boffa Miskell on behalf of the Department of Conservation (DOC). The report set out a concept diagram associated with the future spatial development of Dolomite Point in Punakaiki.

The Opportunity Study encapsulated the key growth opportunities for the site, including more integrated visitor/tourist facilities, an expanded roading network, additional car parking capacity and additional land for accommodation. The report identified a detailed Action Plan, including ongoing work with partner agencies, to ensure the efficient use of land and resources.

In response to the Action Plan, further site investigations and background work was undertaken to support the preparation of a government-led Business Case for Dolomite Point.

The township of Punakaiki is also the gateway to the Paparoa National Park and the Paparoa Track Great Walk. In 2018, Boffa Miskell prepared the Greater Punakaiki Community Masterplan on behalf of Buller District Council. The development of an aligned Business Case and Master Plan for the greater Punakaiki area provided a framework to meet existing demands and provide for future growth.

A key focus has been establishing a cultural footprint for Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Waewae so the Ngāi Tahu hapu is able to share its stories with visitors. Ngāti Waewae will own and manage the new Punangairi Visitor Experience Centre. The redevelopment project has also included significant infrastructure improvements. A new pedestrian/cycle pathway now winds through Punakaiki, providing a safe and scenic route for exploring the wider area. The carpark has been upgraded to accommodate an increased number of visitors.

"I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work on such a fantastic and unique project, within a very special landscape such as Dolomite Point," says landscape planner James Bentley. "The sheer presence of the project complements and celebrates the outstanding landscape and cultural narrative of this incredible place."