Gold award for cancer centre
Cook Brothers Construction has won a prestigious Commercial Building Gold Award for the Canterbury Cancer Society’s new centre in Christchurch.
The New Zealand Commercial Building Awards celebrate construction projects that demonstrate exceptional design, innovation, and sustainability standards. The cancer centre award recognised outstanding success in construction excellence, with the accolade placing the centre among the top-tier commercial projects in New Zealand, showcasing its excellence in construction and commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities for cancer care. 
Designed by architect David Hill, of Wilson and Hill Architects, the new Canterbury Cancer Centre offers comprehensive support for families impacted by cancer. The centre replaces the facility that was destroyed in the 2011 earthquake. It features an office admininstration area, reception, clinical assessment rooms, function room available for rental, and 50 accommodation rooms for families travelling for treatment.
“Wilson and Hill Architects are honoured to have played a role in bringing this transformative project to life,” says company associate James Arps. “The center is testament to the Cancer Society’s forward-thinking vision of unifying their services under one roof and providing for other aligned organisations and health professionals. “It embodies their commitment to providing not just holistic care, but a welcoming, home-like environment for their guests. We are proud to be part of a team that has helped turn this ambitious vision into a tangible, supportive space for those who need it most.”
The project faced numerous setbacks that were overcome by the Cook Brothers Construction team, including the Covid-19 pandemic which presented significant workforce challenges. The centre’s design features, including three-level pre-cast panels and a smart passive fire system, demonstrate remarkable construction ingenuity. Sustainability was incorporated throughout, with material repurposing, reducing waste, and adopting eco-friendly methods. 
Nicola Coom, the Southern Cancer Society’s chief executive, says the organisation is “thrilled” that the project has been recognised in this way. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and expertise of the entire team,” says Nicola. “Our goal has always been to provide the best possible environment for cancer care and accommodation, and this award validates our efforts and commitment to excellence.”
Numerous contractors worked on the project, including Beattie Air. Chief executive officer Dominic Ball described it as a hugely successful collaboration. Beattie Air installed a Mitsubishi Hybrid HVRF System into the multi-storey building, ensuring future-proofing for the structure. “We overcame unique challenges with limited space for above-ceiling services through clever design alterations, enabling a smooth installation process,” he adds.
The centre officially opened in October 2023. Its modern facilities have been designed to operate as a hub for the community to access a wide range of cancer support services. Currently it is home to the Southern Cancer Society, Encompass Health, Prostate Cancer Foundation, Blue Brothers and others.
Cook Brothers Construction (Construction Company), Brendan Blackmur Consulting (Quantity Surveyor), Powell Fenwick (Engineer), Quoin Structural Consultants (Structural Engineer), TSA Management (Project Manager), and Wilson and Hill Architects (Architect/Designer).
