New Energy Efficient Defence House Opened by PM
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Lieutenant General Jerry Mateparae looks on as Prime Minister Helen Clark unveils the building plaque at the official
opening of Defence House in Wellington today.
New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa
Media Release
28 March 2007
NEW ENERGY EFFICIENT DEFENCE HOUSE OPENED BY PM
The new energy efficient Defence House in Aitken Street was officially opened today by the Prime Minister Helen Clark.
The building, which has been designed to reduce energy consumption, houses around 900 personnel.
The building features an open-plan layout with an energy efficient air conditioning system and windows designed to
maximize natural lighting.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Minister of Defence Phil Goff, Chief of Defence Force (CDF) Lieutenant General
Jerry Mateparae, Secretary of Defence John McKinnon, senior personnel and invited guests.
A Barrack Guard made up of Navy, Army and Air Force personnel received the Prime Minister on her arrival at Defence
House.
“The official opening of this new Defence House is another milestone in the ongoing strategy to build a modern,
professional Defence Force,” said Lieutenant General Mateparae.
“The new Defence House has been designed to encourage communication and productivity. It provides a pleasant working
environment, about which I have already received much positive feedback,” he said.
The Prime Minister unveiled the building plaque and declared the building open. The Prime Minister and invited guests
were then taken on a short tour of the building.
A ritual opening of Defence House was conducted at dawn led by Kaumatua Rangitihi Tahuparae.
The ritual, to install the Mauri (lifeforce) to the building, involved Navy, Army and Air Force Maori Cultural Group
personnel and other Defence personnel.
The bulk of the Defence personnel moved into the new building during February from the former Defence premises in Stout
Street.
ENDS