He Tohu is a permanent exhibition housing 3 iconic constitutional documents that have shaped Aotearoa – The 1883 Women’s Suffrage Petition, The Treaty of Waitangi, and He Whakaputanga – the declaration of independence. These 3 documents are housed within a carved out, solid rimu ‘block’ within the larger Department of Internal Affairs building.

While the interior ceiling required a Group 1S fire rating, the interior walls only required a Group 3. The challenge was not only to identify a suitable intumescent for the ceiling, it was to have it visually match the wall.

No solvent based systems were allowed in or near the project. FireZone™ 92 is NZ’s only all waterbased intumescent system. In addition, FireZone™ 92 was selected for its fire rating, appearance and its durability.

Studio Pacific Architecture required a craftsman painter and worked extensively with local contractor Chris Geany on achieving a level of perfection.

The finished product speaks for itself. The beautifully carved West Coast Rimu, in the shape of a Waka Huia (treasure box), was made compliant with FireZone™ 92 expertly applied by Zone Approved Applicator Chris Geany. The seamless finish between full intumescent system and top coat on the walls has delivered a consistent finish throughout the exhibition.

A project of significant historical importance delivered with excellence and enormous pride.