In 2024, the University of Auckland opened its new Sports & Wellness Centre, named Hiwa, designed by Warren and Mahoney in collaboration with MJMA Architects. This world-class facility sets a new benchmark for recreation and wellness spaces in New Zealand. 

To meet the demanding requirements of this environment, the project embraced Carl Stahl X-TEND® stainless steel mesh for its durability, transparency, and adaptability. The mesh barriers were designed and engineered by Ronstan Tensile Architecture and installed by SRS Group. 

These X-TEND® mesh panels are not just a design feature, they offer real-world benefits that make them ideal for sports and recreational spaces. The X-TEND® mesh system is a highly versatile stainless steel cable mesh that is used in sports facilities across the globe, as well as on facades, safety barriers, and projects seeking architectural flair. This system is widely chosen for its ability to withstand the physical demands of such spaces while creating a modern, open aesthetic with visual connectivity. 

As the largest tensile mesh project in New Zealand to date, SRS installed 4,300m² of Ronstan’s Carl Stahl X-TEND® CXE Mesh across key areas of the facility, including level 5 and 6 rooftop courts and running track, the internal level 3 running track, and multiple critical stairwells and voids. Supported by Ronstan ACS2 structural cable systems, the combined mesh and cable system offers a durable yet aesthetically pleasing solution that brings superior strength and flexibility. 

The technical attributes allow for high tensioning, ensuring it can handle the wear and tear of high-traffic areas while remaining lightweight and unobtrusive. The transparency of the mesh ensures maximum visibility and light flow, which is crucial in sports environments where both safety and visual clarity are key. 

This project reflects SRS Group’s ability to deliver extensive precision rigging solutions for complex architectural environments, working closely with the head contractor and our partner Ronstan, navigating a large site over many months and coordinating with multiple trades. 

Completed: 2024 

Architects: Warren and Mahoney, MJMA 

Head Contractor: Hawkins 

Partners: Ronstan Tensile Architecture 

• Rider Levett Bucknall Supreme Excellence Award (at 2025 Property Council New Zealand Property Industry Awards) – Winner
• Colliers Project Leaders Education Property Award (2025 Property Council Awards) – Winner
• Excellence — Leisure & Tourism Property (2025 Property Council Awards) – Winner
• World Architecture Festival Sport Architecture Award (2025, Miami) – Winner
• IOC / IAKS Architecture Prize (2025, awarded by International Olympic Committee with International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities) – Winner
• New Zealand Architecture Award – Education Category (2025) – Winner