Wainuiomata High School has been awarded Winner of the Education category at the Resene Colour Awards, recognising a colour strategy that is deeply connected to place, landscape, and community.

The award-winning palette draws direct inspiration from the natural flora of the surrounding Wainuiomata hills. Rich greens, warm oranges, and vibrant yellows reflect the colours found in the local bush and hillsides, creating a strong visual relationship between the school and its environment.

The exterior features green Trespa cladding, selected to echo the lush hillside backdrop and help the buildings sit comfortably within their landscape. Inside, carefully placed accents of Resene Celebrate, Ecstasy, Palm Green, Highland, and Avocado introduce warmth, energy, and clarity to learning spaces. These colours provide moments of vibrancy while remaining grounded in nature, supporting positive learning experiences and wellbeing.

The judges recognised how the considered selection and placement of colour creates a seamless transition between inside and outside, allowing the campus to feel like an organic extension of its surroundings rather than a standalone development.

This award highlights the value of thoughtful, context-driven design and the strength of collaboration across the project team. Congratulations to Wainuiomata High School and everyone involved in delivering this outstanding education project.