Journey to 2125: Rethinking the Future of Housing

The Wao Summit is returning to Wānaka — six days of workshops, films, kōrero and events, all focused on creating a more sustainable future. This year’s big theme? Looking ahead to the year 2125.

One of the highlights of the Summit is the Better Building Day, which takes a deep dive into the future of our homes, neighbourhoods, and communities. Far from being your average building industry event, Better Building Day is about reimagining how we live, eat, and connect with nature — and how our choices today will shape life for generations to come.

We spoke with Tim Ross, Principal of Architype, NZIA Board member, and part of the Wao Kaitiakitanga Advisory Team. Tim is also a speaker in the headline session Journey to 2125 – Future Focus, which looks at how housing, food, nature, and community can all work together in the built environment.

Tim explained how the session will explore fresh approaches to housing — from cohousing and community-led housing, to papakāinga and high-performance homes. These ideas challenge the old ways of doing things and focus on creating places that are more sustainable, more affordable, and more connected to people and planet.

As Aotearoa faces a housing crisis, shifting demographics, and the realities of climate change, these discussions couldn’t be more timely. The panel aims to spark new ideas, challenge the status quo, and inspire communities to think differently about what “home” can be.

And of course, the Wao Summit is much bigger than just the building day. Across the week you’ll find films, workshops, and kōrero covering everything from food systems and transport to energy and community wellbeing.