Wide open spaces Wynyard Quarter - construction by Dominion Constructors

The saying "Rome wasn't built in a day" is usually invoked when a task is of sufficient import not to be completed in a slapdash manner, and, therefore, should be the responsibility of reputable and experienced people and organisations.

Dominion Constructors, a firm with a long history in the development of Auckland City's streetscapes, was an obvious choice to be a part of the refurbishment of Wynyard Quarter, says managing director Brett Russell.

"Since completing work on the Viaduct Open Spaces in 1999, Dominion Constructors and sister company Russell Bricklayers and Aotea Paving have played a central role in the upgrades of Quay Street, Kingslow Landing, Britomart, and Queen St and now Wynyard Quarter.

"As with all streetscape works, this project runs deeper than the surface product the public can see. With a history rich in industrial heritage, Wynyard Quarter housed a mass of redundant or poor quality in-ground services. Over 30,000 tonnes of contaminated soil had to be removed before services could be replaced and surface works begun."

In all, more than 16,000m² of paving, 15,000m² of reinforced concrete ground slabs, 1.5km of tram tracks laid and 3.5km of wharf track refurbished, as well as 950m of rain gardens and seven public artworks installed, including Michio Ihara's Wind Tree sculpture, previously at QE2 square.

"Wynyard Quarter presented a unique challenge because it was enveloped by other construction sites and several operational businesses, bordered by, and entering into, a tidal harbour and split twice by roads that had to remain operational," says Russell. "Careful planning and open communication ensured minimal disruption throughout."

For further information, contact Dominion Constructors, PO Box 17254, Greenlane, Auckland 1546, phone (09) 526 5808, fax (09) 526 5809. Email: enquiries@constructors.co.nz. Or visit the website: www.constructors.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas