flag flyer for the city

For both tenants and landlords, an earlier-than-expected completion date provides considerable cost savings. Conversely, any delay can also be measured in dollar terms. It's a deadline pressure that fit-out contractor Hawkins Interiors took in its stride for the 15,000m² fit-out of the Air New Zealand building.

General manager Geoff Gibbons says the Hawkins team, headed by project manager John Broadbelt, was able to complete the project several months ahead of schedule, which enabled Air New Zealand to move in earlier, resulting in substantial cost savings for the company, and for building owner Macquarie Goodman.

"Working very closely with our sister company Hawkins Construction gave us a distinct advantage," says Gibbons. "The relationship between the two companies meant the interaction between the base build and the fit-out was fully co-ordinated. This allowed for a seamless operation with no interruptions. The integration included the commissioning of subcontractors with consequent warranty benefits for using the same subcontractors for services, such as electrical and mechanical, fire, HVAC and plumbing."

Gibbons says council consent matters were also shared, with a joint Code of Compliance issued.

Other factors that helped Hawkins Interiors escalate the programme included the company's early involvement in the fit-out planning.

The four-person team from Hawkins Interiors worked alongside the Air New Zealand project team, Warren & Mahoney Architects and specialist project management company Carson Group. They also worked closely with the expanded team that included Beca, Ignite Architects, Norman Disney Young, Macquarie Goodman and Hawkins Construction.

"This early involvement meant we could offer advice on buildability' issues. The fit-out is characterised by a high level of detailing, as seen in the auditorium and the extensive wood panelling throughout the building. Being aware of these elements at the planning stage gave us, and the subcontractors, plenty of time to work out building strategies, preventing delays during construction."

Gibbons says the finish achieved throughout the fit-out is also of the highest quality, a factor he attributes to early integration of the entire project team working to achieve a common goal.

For Hawkins Interiors, however, the main challenge of the project was created by the late re-design of the executive offices.

"We were able to incorporate these changes into the existing time frame and still complete the project ahead of schedule," says Gibbons.

Hawkins Interiors, established just two years ago with a staff of four, has secured large contracts and expanded rapidly. The company, which now has 36 staff and offices in Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington and Christchurch, also offers maintenance contracts.

For details, contact Hawkins Interiors, PO Box 6148, Wellesley St, Auckland, phone (09) 368 4378, fax (09) 369 5083. Website: www.hawkinsinteriors.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas