Located within the Ōtepoti Dunedin Courthouse, the refurbishment of the Youth Courtroom represents a significant cultural and architectural milestone for the region. Brought to life through a strong partnership between Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki, the Ministry of Justice, Aukaha – Mana Ahurea and Stephenson & Turner, the project reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful, culturally grounded environments.
The refurbishment is anchored by a guiding whakataukī gifted by mana whenua: “Ka haea te ata, ka hāpara te ata, ka pō, ka ao, ka awatea.” This expression of a new day breaking shaped the conceptual foundations of the design. Themes of light, renewal and potential are woven throughout the courtroom through artwork by Morgan Darlison (Kāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tainui) and Andre Te Hira (Waitaha, Kāti Mamoe, Kāi Tahu, Ngāpuhi). Morgan’s artwork features manu carrying kā kakano, symbolising guidance, knowledge and the wisdom of Te Ao Mārama. A warm palette inspired by dawn light uplifts the mauri of the space, while the aramoana tāniko pattern references ripples of light on water and the aspirations of youth navigating new pathways. Andre’s bespoke typography brings the whakataukī into the physical environment, providing a visible reminder of renewal and opportunity.
Stephenson & Turner integrated the courtroom’s operational requirements with a design response shaped by mana whenua narratives. The project included a full upgrade of the Judge’s bench, dock, Interview rooms, waiting areas, lighting, HVAC systems and purpose-built furniture. The result is a welcoming and culturally resonant series of spaces that better support privacy, safety and wellbeing. This refurbishment also demonstrates S&T’s wider expertise across government building design, energy-efficient architecture and engineering solutions services.
This project was guided by a shared intention to honour cultural identity, uphold the mana of all who enter the Youth Court, and foster better outcomes for young people. It demonstrates how culturally informed, collaborative design can help shape meaningful change across Aotearoa’s justice system.
