Behind the scenes

Working on an existing building that is accessed seven days a week by the public poses a variety of challenges for all of the contractors involved in the construction process.

Hastie New Zealand was contracted to supply and install the air conditioning, ventilation, building management controls and mechanical services for the Auckland War Memorial Museum project.

Paul Martin, chief executive officer of Hastie New Zealand, says this was not a traditional hard tender project but a collaborative Specific Service Level Agreement driven by the client and the design team.

"The main contractor, subcontractors and design team all worked together to provide the best quality solutions during the project," he says.

Martin says the challenges of construction within a high-profile, operating, heritage building meant all possibilities for re-routing ductwork and pipework had to be exhausted and a close working relationship with the builder, project manager and the client was essential.

"Existing equipment was upgraded and new equipment had to be cut into existing systems, with the museum remaining fully operational throughout. In addition, the new installation required very high rates of filtration and close temperature control for sensitive artefact storage areas," says Martin.

For information, contact Hastie New Zealand, PO Box 71055, Rosebank, Auckand, phone (09) 828 5400, fax (09) 828 5408. Email: hastie@hastie.co.nz. Website: www.hastiegroup.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas