Station a finalist in design awards

Rotorua police station is a finalist in the New Zealand Architecture Awards. Photo / File

Rotorua police station does not need an award for its staff to think it is the best.

But Rotorua police area commander Inspector Bruce Horne said winning its category at the New Zealand Architecture Awards would be the icing on the cake.

The station, which was opened in May last year, is a finalist in the public building category of the awards. It is one of 46 buildings shortlisted.

The shortlisted buildings also include house alterations, a traffic interchange and an art gallery.

Mr Horne reckoned the Fenton St station was the best police station in New Zealand.

"I think we should win."

He added: "There's a lot of innovation in this building."

Culturally it was also the first to be given a name, he said.

Te Amo Whakaruruhau was given by Te Arawa. It means a place where you will find shelter and refuge, and people who are leaders in making others safe.

The building's architects were Leuschke Group and Vincent Chrisp & Partners.

Last year the building was a finalist in the Property Industry Awards.

The awards' jury convenor, Auckland architect Pete Bossley, said it was tough to draw up a shortlist.

The jury would visit the shortlisted projects next month and the 2015 New Zealand Architecture Awards will be announced at a function at Te Papa, Wellington, on October 30.