Construction on the New Zealand pavilion for Expo 2020 Dubai has begun with a ground-breaking ceremony to mark the occasion.
The pavilion will showcase New Zealand’s culture and values through the theme ‘Care for People and Place’, which explores the connection between people and the environment.
Clayton Kimpton, New Zealand’s Commissioner-General to Expo 2020 and Matthew Hawkins, New Zealand’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, took shovels and broke ground on the site alongside Expo 2020 representatives Najeeb Al Ali, Executive Director Bureau, and Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President International Participants.
“The ground-breaking and start of construction is a major milestone for New Zealand at Expo 2020, and we are pleased to be one of the first countries to begin building on site,” says Kimpton.
The pavilion is located in the Expo’s Sustainability District.
“We’re really excited to share our pavilion story with the international community. Our theme, Care for People and Place, will be part of the visitor experience and continue in the pavilion restaurant, where patrons can experience our warm hospitality and enjoy food that has been grown and prepared with future generations in mind.”
“The pavilion will also have event and hospitality spaces that New Zealand business, education and government sectors can book to use throughout the World Expo.”
Expo 2020 Dubai will be the largest World Expo held with more than 190 countries confirmed to participate. The six-month event is expected to attract millions of international visitors including representatives from government and business, school students and tourists.
The pavilion is designed by New Zealand architect firm Jasmax. Construction company Cimolai Rimond Middle East will perform the enabling and foundation works for the pavilion. Prior to any works, last month a Māori karakia (cultural blessing) was performed on site to prepare it for the building processes.
Construction is expected to be complete by the middle of next year, ahead of Expo 2020 Dubai opening in October 2020.
Photo (left to right): Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President, International Participants Expo 2020, Najeeb Al Ali, Executive Director Bureau Expo 2020, Clayton Kimpton, New Zealand’s Commissioner-General to Expo 2020, Matthew Hawkins, New Zealand’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates break ground on the New Zealand pavilion site.
