PRESENTATION: “Lower Hatea Crossing – ACENZ GOLD Winner” by Duncan Peters

Presentation

https://youtube.com/watch?v=VQTmDCk4zbM%3F

When – Tuesday 22 September 2015 //

Abstract

The Lower Hatea River Crossing is an example of outstanding civil construction, as it demonstrates that functionality and aesthetics need not be mutually exclusive. Road bridges are typically built to a cheap design solution, yet the LHRC shows that transport infrastructure can be both practical and striking – and with lateral thinking – economical.

The Transfield Services/McConnell Dowell JV was able to achieve this with their bascule bridge modelled on the traditional Maori Fish Hook Hei Matau – representing strength, good luck and safe travel over water. The bridges form reflects its function as the ‘fish hook’ (J beams), which is cantilevered and rolls back to raise the bridge deck.

The new 265m bridge connects Whangarei’s eastern suburbs with the City’s commercial and industrial areas along Port Road and back to the Town Basin, and is part of a package to ease traffic congestion. The project includes 1.26km of new road across the old town refuse facility on Pohe Island, three roundabouts and a three-metre shared cycle lane and footpath. Since opening in July 2013, the bridge now carries over 8,000 vehicles per day.

Community involvement in the project was a key driver for the client, and local input was emphasised and prioritised at every stage. More than 61% of the project’s value was spent locally and more than 65,000 local man hours worked. This provided significant stimulation to the local economy - a key project requirement.

Delivered through and ECI contract model, the project demonstrates how collaboration can leverage the skills of diverse groups. Auckland-based consulting engineer Novare / Gaia (formerly Peters & Cheung) led the project team. Novare / Gaia carried out structural and geotechnical design. It included Knight Architects delivering the bridge design and Eadon Consulting providing the mechanical and electrical engineering for the bascule section. Northern Civil Consulting Engineers carried out roading design.

The client particularly noted the efforts of Duncan Peters in leading this international team to deliver the outstanding design result.