Comprehensive project plan was developed early on with expert input from geotechnical and structural engineers, architects, and quantity surveyors. The building had to be closed in November 2022 following a seismic assessment which concluded it was earthquake prone, at just 25% of the New Building Standard (NBS). A comprehensive project plan was developed early on with expert input from geotechnical and structural engineers, architects, and quantity surveyors.

United Construction Limited were engaged early on to ensure buildability of the proposed design. During the development of the methodology, the team recognised challenges that would arise in relation to the buildings’ heritage status. In response, the Hawkins team developed concepts during the ECI phase to ensure the project could proceed with minimal disruption to the programme. The construction site was split into four zones, to allow construction to occur in each of these zones concurrently, speeding up delivery of the project.

The United Construction Limited team have undertaken a complete renovation of the building, which has increased the capacity to 950 people in the main theatre, 350 in the Black Box Theatre, and 350 in the Banquet Hall.

The design incorporates cultural artwork, such as the blue and green patterned glass in the foyer, designed by Henriata Nicholas (Ngāti Whakaue), part of the Morrison whānau.

The Sir Howard Morrison Centre achieved a Gold Award in the Heritage and Restoration Category at the 2023 NZ Commercial Project Awards.