The building’s name and cultural design narrative is derived from the landscape. For Māori, Tōtara is a highly valued taonga due to the remarkable strength and durability of its heartwood, and in te ao Māori, tōtara is synonymous with chiefly qualities and status.

The Tōtara Haumaru building is therefore symbolic of a chief or individual of great importance, who provides others with a safe haven. Wood from a tōtara tree, removed from the site to make way for the building, will be used for carvings incorporated in Tōtara Haumaru.

Jasmax has translated this concept of timber symbolising shelter and strength by incorporating it into non-clinical spaces such as the arrival area, main entrance, atrium, waiting areas and ward whanau rooms, to bring nature and warmth into the building.