A social housing project located in Otara, Mahitahi Kainga is a collection of 41 single bedroom apartments, whānau apartments, and whare manaaki arranged around a central courtyard. Construction time was reduced with the use of cross-laminated timber floors and walls in place of concrete, subsequently lessening the demands on the building’s foundation. Two large pillars flank the entrance while wraparound verandas and extended roof canopies, in conjunction with Douglas fir cladding, create a feeling of intimacy and security for residents.