08 Oct Heart of New Zealand’s financial system protected by EasyGate IM speedgates
When the Reserve Bank of New Zealand upgraded its lobby, it settled on three lanes of customised EasyGate IM entrance control gates clad in white Corian to complement its architectural vision of creating a physical representation of the Māori legend of Tāne Mahuta.
The entire lobby fit out, including sculptures, carvings, tiles and even the lobby desk representing a traditional double-hull canoe, tells the story of Tāne Mahuta and The Reserve Bank’s own role as kaitiaki (guardian) of New Zealand’s financial system.
Entrance Control General Manager Michael Bystram said Entrance Control was proud to have played a role in safeguarding the Wellington landmark and one of New Zealand’s most prominent financial institutions.
“Working with the Reserve Bank for its 2022 lobby upgrade was an honour. The EasyGate IM, with its bespoke Corian finish, is a perfect example of how we can tailor our products to meet the unique needs of our clients while maintaining watertight entrance security.”
White tiles on the lobby floor form a design symbolising manawa, the lifeline of Te Pūtea Matua (the bank) and the pattern on the tiles signify ngā pūtake (its roots), representing the main artery giving life to Tāne Mahuta.
Bystram said the cladding of EasyGate IM speedgates could be matched to suit any floor material, with wood or stone as well as brushed, polished or coloured stainless-steel options available.
“We don’t put any limits on the aesthetics – that’s up to our customers.”
Specially recommended for government buildings and corporate offices, EasyGate IM’s bi-directional glass barriers close quickly to deter tailgating and are offered at heights of up to 1,800mm to challenge climb-over attempts.
The speedgate has five security settings to define the size of the safety zone, allowing customisation of security as well as style, plus a torque sensor to stop the barrier if an obstruction is detected while it is closing.
Bystram said limiting access to sensitive areas was paramount for an institution like the Reserve Bank.
“The EasyGate IM is designed for environments where security is absolutely crucial. Its advanced detection systems ensure that only those with the proper credentials can gain access.”
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand plays a pivotal role in the country’s economic landscape. As the nation’s central bank it steers monetary policy to protect and promote the stability of its financial system. The bank introduced polymer banknotes in 1999, the second country in the world after Australia to do so.