10 Apr 2025
At a recent event held at New Zealand Parliament, Studio Pacific was proud to stand alongside wool growers, producers, and government leaders to support a new procurement policy that encourages the use of Aotearoa wool in public buildings. As the only architectural practice invited to attend, we were honoured to share how this natural, high-performing material is already being used in our projects.
Held in the Legislative Council Chamber at Parliament, the event marked a meaningful shift towards the use of sustainable, locally sourced materials in government buildings. The updated procurement policy sets a clear expectation: where practical and appropriate, woollen fibres should be used in new government buildings and refurbishments – making it easier to specify wool, and harder to value-engineer it out through the procurement process. It sets a benchmark for using this natural product more widely in projects in the future.
A Trusted Partner at Parliament
At the event, Studio Pacific showcased three recent Parliament projects where wool has been, or will be, used: the Museum Street Building, the Executive Wing (Beehive) entry upgrade, and refurbishing Level 3 of the Beehive. Our display attracted strong interest from attendees, reflecting growing momentum across sectors for sustainable design solutions. The Level 3 refurbishment has been widely lauded by its occupants for its biophilic and natural attributes.
Our relationship with Parliament spans years of collaboration on public-facing spaces and complex refurbishments. These projects demonstrate how high-performance natural materials like wool can meet the demands of civic architecture while supporting broader environmental goals.
Backing Better Material Choices
Wool is durable, breathable and biodegradable – with proven benefits for both building performance and occupant wellbeing. It is flame-resistant, UV-protective, and helps reduce static electricity and VOCs, contributing to safer, healthier indoor environments. As a natural acoustic and thermal insulator, wool is also well suited to large-scale public buildings.
Beyond its technical performance, wool carries significant economic and environmental value. New Zealand produces approximately 120,000 tonnes of wool annually, with strong wool accounting for over 80 percent of production. Supporting wool in government procurement creates flow-on benefits for rural communities and helps reduce reliance on petroleum-based materials in construction.
As noted in the government’s procurement guidance, “Uptake of woollen fibre products by government agencies can help drive employment and regional development in wool-producing locations, as well as encouraging sustainability and innovation in the building materials industry.” We couldn’t agree more.
Advocating for Industry Change
As an ambassador for Campaign for Wool in New Zealand since its foundation in 2010, Studio Pacific Founding Director Stephen McDougall continues to be a vocal advocate and educator for wool’s use across the architecture and design industry. Passionate about sustainable materials and locally sourced solutions, Stephen actively promotes wool’s potential across the construction sector – from public spaces to private developments.
“We’re committed to making conscious material choices that benefit people, place and planet. Wool ticks all those boxes – it’s local, low-impact and high-performing,” says Stephen. “It’s time for a wool renaissance. Wool is not only the best fibre in the world, it’s the best fibre for the world – and of course for New Zealand.”
As the government formalises its support for wool in the built environment, we encourage others in the architecture and construction industry to explore how this versatile material can be integrated into their own practice.
Designing for the Future
Studio Pacific remains committed to championing thoughtful material choices that balance performance, sustainability and cultural relevance. As this new procurement policy is implemented, we look forward to seeing wool become not only more accessible – but a foundational element in how we shape thoughtful, enduring architecture for Aotearoa’s future.
Studio Pacific joined wool growers, producers, and government leaders to support a new procurement policy that encourages the use of Aotearoa wool in public buildings. Image: Steve Montgomery