Not for Stage 1, this is contracted to Totalspan and they have safety regulations and laws for this. They will do all of this work and for purposes of ACC and insurance, we do not do any of this with them.

However, we’ll be able to visit the site and discuss progress or problems with the project manager. This is in a controlled manner in the interest of the safety of all.

But don’t worry, we will want lots of help from the Sangha for stage 2! See the latest pictures of stage 2 here > Sangha rocks!

Stage 1 is the building of the Gompa to what we call “lock up stage”. This means that it will be complete but without the lining on the inside and the power connected to it. Storm water drainage from the Gompa to a pit some distance away – this will provide water for new trees below the Gompa.

The design is consistent with most Diamond Way gompas around the world. The plan complies with IL2 building code standards for the local area and with legal conditions which meet government standards for this type of building purpose. This allows for the building to withstand the weather conditions in the area which is at a higher altitude than that required for a lower standard. This includes high winds which are known in this area. At the same time, the plan is for an attractive building. These codes also comply with regulations for it to meet standards for public use.

For stage 1 the building will have a concrete floor with no heating and no wall linings nor insulation apart from a builders thermal break. Included in this is sliding front doors to accommodate bigger courses and the use of a tent to hold more participants, a porch for shoes, coats etc. and this will have double french doors into the Gompa. Lots of windows open for air and light and a side door for the Lama to have a tent off to the side for entering and exiting, toilet, tea facilities or  for whatever his needs are.

Front elevation   Back elevation   Left elevation   Front perspective   Rear perspective

Diamond Way Buddhism New Zealand prepared a proposal for a joint collaboration with Australia to build the gompa.  Buddhism Diamond Way Australia has agreed to donate and lend a large amount of the money required for stage 1 construction. Along with New Zealand fundraising efforts and some incredibly generous private donations we have enough money to start construction.

The owners of the land, the Diamond Way Buddhism Foundation (Buddhismmus Stiftung Diamantweg), have approved the New Zealand Diamond Way Buddhism Trust to build.

The contract with a local construction company, Totalspan, has been signed and council permissions are  in progress. We expect to have council permissions finalised in July and construction is due to begin by September.

If all goes as planned, phase 1 construction will be completed in December, giving us time to prepare to host the national course with Lama Ole in February or March 2016.

1. Rack card sent to friends worldwide showing the Gompa design
2. Gompa plan
3. Friends looking and talking at Gompa site
4. Laurie from Totalspan & Manfred with signed documents
5. Timeline