Multiplex has been appointed main contractor by The Crown Estate to deliver an extensive refurbishment of New Zealand House

Situated at the southern gateway to Haymarket, the Arts Quarter and St James’s Market, New Zealand House is a Grade II listed, landmark building. Opened in 1963, the building was seen as a symbol of the New Zealand Government’s post-Second World War commitment to the United Kingdom and its broader relationship with the people and government of Great Britain. Over 60 years ago it was a shining example of innovation , with the first fully air-conditioned office in London.

The retrofit project also includes the Grade I listed Royal Opera Arcade, which is being carefully restored and enhanced. When complete, New Zealand House will deliver 138,000 sq ft of office and hospitality space overlooking Westminster to the south and Piccadilly Circus to the north.

Clare Harrison, Development Director at The Crown Estate, said: “New Zealand House is a truly iconic building in the heart of London. When it opened its doors in 1963, it was a beacon of modern development on the Capital’s skyline. We are working hard – alongside our construction partners at Multiplex – to recapture its innovative status and deliver sustainable, quality office and hospitality space in the West End.”

Rob Hunt, Project Director at Multiplex, said: ''As we begin to deliver our first project for The Crown Estate, our involvement in New Zealand House is one we're particularly proud of, enriching our experience in adaptive reuse developments in inner-city locations.

''We're honoured to be playing such a significant part in the extensive redesign which promotes a huge emphasis on sustainability. Breathing new life into London’s West End whilst preserving its heritage is something we’re excited to see New Zealand House achieve.''