The Renal Unit at Taranaki Base Hospital is a world-leader as a zero-carbon, zero-energy healthcare building, and creates an exemplary environment for dialysis treatment. Spanning a valley planted with native trees, the sustainably sourced timber boardwalk bisects the modest form, creating distinct patient/clinician spaces, together with level access from both the street and hospital. Set in a residential zone, the building responds appropriately in terms of scale and materiality. In the architect’s own words, the building offers “a sense of hope, relaxation and access to nature”.