Beca Group’s move to a “future-fit” headquarters in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter has driven office attendance back to pre-Covid levels, with over 800 staff returning daily. According to Beca head of workplace assets and experience Chloe Stewart-Tyson, the shift emphasizes flexible, collaborative spaces and sustainability to attract a new generation of workers.
Why are companies shifting to activity-based workplaces?
Businesses are moving away from traditional fixed desks toward a mix of quiet zones, collaboration areas, and informal spaces. Anthony Randell, general manager of property at Precinct, states that organizations now use workplace decisions as strategic levers to support culture, talent, and performance.
Beca’s new base, Te Paeroa o te Kawau, utilizes this versatile design to break down internal silos. A 60-person design team focused on encouraging informal interaction and knowledge-sharing across different business lines, Stewart-Tyson says.
How does workplace design impact employee attendance?
High-quality amenities and location directly correlate with higher office occupancy. Beca reported a return to pre-pandemic attendance levels after moving to the Precinct-managed building. Randell notes that employees of Precinct clients average 4.1 days in the office per week, which exceeds the national average of 3.3 days.
The “Heart Space” at Te Paeroa o te Kawau focuses on wellbeing through a two-storey area featuring a parents’ room, a multi-faith prayer room, and social kitchens. Stewart-Tyson attributes the increase in staff presence to the appeal of the Wynyard Quarter area and the functional versatility of the office.
What role does sustainability play in modern HQ strategy?
Modern headquarters are increasingly judged by their environmental certifications and their impact on commuter behavior. Te Paeroa o te Kawau holds a 6 Green Star rating for eco-friendly practices and a 5-star NABERSNZ rating for energy and water performance.
The impact extends beyond the building’s walls. Stewart-Tyson reports that because there are no on-site staff carparks, Beca has seen the following shifts in employee commuting:
- Bicycle commuting: Increased by 150%
- Public transport use: Increased by 55%
- Car travel: Decreased by 45%
How does location influence brand and client engagement?
Positioning an office within a connected business community rather than a standalone building provides higher visibility. Randell argues that being part of a precinct allows like-minded professionals from different firms to network more effectively.
For Beca, this has translated into better client relations. Stewart-Tyson says the enhanced client-facing spaces and the location’s accessibility have led to an increase in client visits and events.
Comparison: Strategic Move vs. Forced Relocation
| Driver | Traditional Move | Strategic Move (Beca/Precinct Model) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Trigger | Lease expiry or outgrowing space | Unlocking new ways of working |
| Goal | Accommodating staff | Influencing performance and brand |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an activity-based workplace?
It is an office design that replaces traditional fixed desks with a variety of settings—such as quiet zones and collaboration areas—tailored to the specific task being performed.
What are Green Star and NABERSNZ ratings?
These are certifications that measure a building’s environmental impact, energy efficiency, and water performance.
Why is the Beca office named Te Paeroa o te Kawau?
The name was gifted by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei to reflect the building’s location, company values, the history of Tāmaki Makaurau, and Ngāti Whātua chief Apihai Te Kawau.
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