Planned that way Wynyard Quarter development supported by Waterfront Auckland

Ensuring public access to our foreshore has been a contentious issue of late, as both sides of the debate argue over the minutiae of ownership.

An area free from contention is the newly refurbished Wynyard Quarter, where locals and visitors alike can freely revel in the waterfront facilities.

A joint venture between Waterfront Auckland, Ports of Auckland and Sea+City Projects, Wynyard Quarter draws to a close a five-year process that is stage one of a four-stage master plan, says Waterfront Auckland chief executive John Dalzell.

"We have, each of us, become parts in a well-oiled machine over the course of this project, working together to deliver this vision for the city.

"The exercise now is to ensure that we keep what has been successful and build on that moving forward; allowing time for public debate to build and for further solutions to be realised."

The consenting and procurement process was very complex, says development manager Richard Hiles-Smith of MPM Projects.

"With two District Plan changes, over 90 resource and building consents to obtain, and the input of some 50 consultants from as far away as the USA, close monitoring was required to ensure the necessary consents were available to commence works on each phase of the project.

"This process, combined with the complete design and construction of $120 million of works in four years necessitated a closely monitored critical path programme."

For project manager Projenz, the scale and complexity of the project was breathtaking, says managing director Steve Borlase.

"Multiple contractors and consultants, the involvement of Auckland Council and its organisations, coupled with the recognition that this was a flagship development, required an unparalleled level of coordination."

That sentiment was echoed by Hawkins Construction Auckland manager Dan Ashby. "Logistically, this was a very tight project. The adjoining areas of the wharf were constantly in use by commercial vessels, requiring a coordinated construction effort for the events centre.

"Another singular aspect of the build was that the services for the centre are reticulated under the wharf, which proved challenging to install, given access is prevented from two hours either side of high tide as the lack of headroom is a hazard."

Engaged to prepare a sustainable development framework for the project, Boffa Miskell was also concerned with engaging the public, says director Rachel de Lambert.

"This aspect of our contribution is particularly satisfying, in that our office is nearby, so we too will make good use of Wynyard Quarter."

For more details, contact Waterfront Auckland, phone (09) 336 8820, fax (09) 379 4116. Email: info@waterfrontauckland.co.nz. Or visit the website: www.waterfrontauckland.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas