Mātai Research Institute Project, New Zealand
Project Overview
Mātai Medical Research Institute is a world-class facility dedicated to advancing research in neuroscience, cardiology, and broader medical fields. Located in New Zealand, Mātai is committed to improving health and social outcomes for people of all ages while contributing to global medical advancements.
The completion of Stage 1 on their renovation project in 2023 marked a major milestone for the institute, establishing its home as part of a larger medical campus. With Stages 2 and 3 planned for development over the next three years, Mātai is set to become a leading hub for cutting-edge research, translating scientific discoveries into real-world healthcare solutions.
A key feature of the facility’s construction was the integration of Mateenbar60™, an advanced glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) rebar, into the concrete foundation.
The use of this innovative reinforcement material aligns with Mātai’s forward-thinking approach to technology, ensuring a strong and resilient foundation for groundbreaking research.
Project Results
The selection of Mateenbar60™ fiberglass rebar for the Mātai Medical Research Institute delivered multiple advantages over traditional steel reinforcement:
- Lightweight and Efficient: Weighing only a quarter of the weight of steel, Mateenbar60™ was easier to handle, reducing manual labor, simplifying installation, and increasing construction efficiency.
- Corrosion-Resistant for Long-Term Durability: Unlike steel rebar, fiberglass rebar does not corrode, ensuring a maintenance-free and structurally sound facility—critical for a long-term medical research institution.
- On-Site Flexibility and Ease of Use: Mateenbar60™ can be cut using standard cutting tools, providing greater flexibility during installation and eliminating costly delays.
- Significant Labor and Material Savings: The lightweight nature and long lengths of Mateenbar60™ allowed for more efficient installation, reducing both handling complexity and overall labor costs.
Pete Gourlay, Project Manager at Dawson Building, highlighted the benefits of Mateenbar™, stating:
“The Mateenbar was used as an alternative to steel to form two layers of mesh in a 300mm thick monolithic slab. We found that the light weight and long lengths were a real game changer. Lifting was very easy, and long lengths resulted in a real labor saving. We would not hesitate to use this product again.”
Pultron Composites’ Commitment to Mātai
As the manufacturer of Mateenbar60™, Pultron Composites has supported Mātai Medical Research Institute from its inception. As a founding sponsor, Pultron is proud to contribute to the development of a facility that will drive medical advancements for generations to come.
The successful integration of Mateenbar60™ in Stage 1 sets a precedent for future phases, ensuring that the facility continues to lead in both medical research and innovative construction. With Mātai’s expansion on the horizon, the use of cutting-edge materials like Mateenbar60™ fiberglass rebar reinforces a shared vision of pioneering technology for a healthier future.
Building the Future with Mateenbar®
For over 30 years globally, Mateenbar® has been a leader in strength, purpose, and sustainable innovation—proudly made in the USA and fully BABA-compliant. When infrastructure projects demand proven durability, superior performance, and long-term resilience, Mateenbar60™ is the smart choice. Contact our team today to learn how GFRP rebar can optimize your next project, reduce lifecycle costs, and deliver lasting results. Discover why Mateenbar® reinforces what matters most—building the future of infrastructure, one project at a time.
