SPRING / SUMMER NEWS

KiwiRail. Thurlow has continued with some additional topographical work for Kiwrail. This has included specific measurements at the Purewa Tunnel in Meadowbank, Auckland. A challenging environment, with OSH issues particularly relevant.

Civil and Structural Engineering. Recently completed civil / roading contracts include the completion of slip rehabilitation at Masterton Road, Beach Road and Browns Bay Road on the North Shore. Also the design and construction of speed tables and footpathing in Fairview Avenue, Albany. Completed also has been the extension of Oteha Valley Road culvert at the new Placemakers building in Albany. This culvert extension included fish passages to encourage further rehabilitation of the upper stream catchments and allow re-establishment in the upper stream of Kokupu (native trout). Associated with the culvert extension is significant Gabion wall basket retaining walls.

Our Director, Ross Thurlow, co-ordinated the submission to the 2010 review of NZS:4404 Land Development and Subdivision Infrastructure on behalf of the New Zealand Institute of Surveyors (Estb. 1888). Adoption of the design guidelines within NZS:4404 will result in better design outcomes for subdivisions and developments. By adopting the design principles of the new NZS:4404 2010 roads can become spaces able to be used more effectively by the community for example cul-de-sacs with appropriate design features can become an environment that children can play in without compromising their safety. The new NZS:4404:2010 also places a great emphasis on treatment and retention of stormwater.

Ross has prepared a draft design and access statement template for the NZIS which is a key tool for designers adoption and appropriate use of the code. This template is currently being circulated for comment from the industry.

Super City. The Super City is now upon us and the changes have become evident already. Our hope as is everyones, is to a better customer service at a lower cost.