He Puna Taimoana
Led the redesign of the He Puna Taimoana website, improving usability, accessibility, and mobile-first experience.
Role
UI UX/Graphic Designer
Industry
Public Facility
Duration
2 months
Background
He Puna Taimoana is a popular public facility, and its website serves as a key touchpoint for visitors seeking essential information such as bookings, pricing, and visitor guidelines. However, the existing site showed signs of outdated design patterns and usability challenges, particularly on mobile devices where the majority of users accessed the platform.
The project was initiated to explore opportunities for improvement through a UI/UX redesign. Working within Christchurch City Council’s Digital Channels team, I collaborated with external agency NV Interactive and was responsible for leading the design direction, supported by mentorship within the team.
Research & Planning
I began by auditing the existing website to identify usability issues, inconsistencies, and areas of friction in the user journey. This included reviewing navigation structure, content hierarchy, and mobile responsiveness.
Key user needs were mapped around quick access to high-priority information such as memberships, pricing, and location information. A mobile-first approach was defined early, based on user behaviour trends.
Design & Prototyping
Based on the findings, I restructured the information architecture to improve clarity and reduce cognitive load. I developed wireframes and high-fidelity UI designs that aligned with modern design standards while staying consistent with council branding. Simplified website by removing unnecessary elements (such as the yellow dots) and lightened the colour palette for a more accessible experience.
Special attention was given to responsive layouts, ensuring that components scaled effectively across breakpoints. Interaction patterns were simplified to create more intuitive user flows, particularly for mobile users.
Development & Implementation
Although the project did not move into full development, the designs were created with feasibility in mind. I worked closely with NV Interactive to ensure alignment between design intent and technical considerations.
Design deliverables included high-fidelity mockups and clearly defined responsive behaviours, enabling a smooth potential handover for development.
Testing & Optimization
Usability considerations were validated through internal reviews and feedback sessions with stakeholders. Iterations were made to improve navigation clarity, readability, and interaction efficiency.
The final design direction was presented to NV Interactive, demonstrating clear improvements in usability and overall experience, and NV Interactive implemented the development side of the work.
Solutions
Mobile-first redesign with improved responsive behaviour across breakpoints
Simplified navigation and clearer information hierarchy for key user tasks.
Rebranding for a more inclusive and accessible experience
The redesign focused on creating a seamless mobile experience, recognising that most users access the website via their phones. Layouts were restructured to prioritise essential information, reduce scrolling friction, and improve readability on smaller screens. Components were designed to adapt fluidly across breakpoints, ensuring consistency and usability regardless of device.
In addition, the information architecture was refined to make navigation more intuitive. Key user journeys, such as finding booking information or pricing - were streamlined, reducing the number of steps required and improving overall efficiency. Visual hierarchy and spacing were also enhanced to guide users more naturally through the content.
Results
Strong stakeholder validation and positive feedback from NV Interactive
Demonstrated clear UX improvements despite the project being paused
The proposed redesign was well received by stakeholders and external partners, with particular recognition for the improved usability, modern visual direction, and thoughtful mobile-first approach. The presentation effectively communicated the value of user-centred design within a council environment.
Although the project was ultimately paused due to budget constraints and shifting product direction, it remains a strong example of my ability to lead a UX/UI initiative, collaborate across teams, and deliver strategic design solutions. It also highlights my capability to advocate for user needs while balancing organisational and technical considerations.
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