Vodafone opens new HQ in Auckland

Vodafone has opened its new HQ in Smales Farm, Auckland.

The 'digital workplace, dubbed Innov8, has six levels with over 70 meeting rooms and, says Vodafone, can accommodate up to 2000 people at any one time.

Vodafone says it has equipped the building with sensors that enable workers' smartphones to be used to gain access to the building, to lockers and to register their presence in meeting rooms.

The building is described as "a fully enabled smart building at the heart of a world-leading innovative, sustainable and interactive precinct designed to foster business and community growth … [that] blends connectivity and community in a campus-like environment to showcase the diverse and flexible nature of the business and its people."

Vodafone’s regional head of property Murray Dobson said the building had been designed to accommodate the diversity in ages, culture and types of work undertaken by Vodafone staff.

"There’s space for everyone – that was part of the brief to the architect, which is why we have breakout spaces, entertainment spaces, a prayer room, wellness areas and plenty of meeting spaces.

An events hall inside InnoV8 can be turned into several small meeting rooms, or into one huge venue where all Vodafone staff and guests can come together for events.

Two years ago Vodafone opened its South Island HQ in Christchurch. That building is also dubbed Innov8, a name shared by the venture capital arm of Singapore telco, Singtel, and its Australian subsidiary Optus.