28 | EcoReef - HEX-LOC®NZ T T Virginia Wright Clever design mitigates erosion The hexagonal blocks, which can be interlocked to provide a solid single structure with infinite design options for adapting to any project or solution. “We couldn’t have chosen a better location if we were looking for proof of concept. In May this year a massive storm came in from the Antarctic with sustained 120kph winds across the Cook Strait, and the HEX-LOC® structure stood up incredibly well…” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT If you are driving on recently repaired roads around the south coast of the North Island, or along the Ākitio River in the Tararua District, you may notice the hexagonal shapes that are the hallmark of an innovative new product offering an alternative solution to traditional methods of dealing with erosion. Originally called EcoReef®, the 620kg fibre cement blocks, now called HEX-LOC®, were the brainchild of engineer, farmer and inventor Fred Waiker. Living in Wellington, and travelling frequently to his farm at Cape Palliser, Fred knew first-hand the vulnerability of its south-facing T T to page 30 coastal road that washed out every time there was a weather event, isolating the community for as long as it took to repair it. Taking inspiration from the natural environment, Fred designed the hexagonal blocks, which can be interlocked to provide a solid single structure with infinite design options for adapting to any project or solution. Metco Engineering worked closely with Fred to come up with the moulds that turned the concept into the replicable product it is today, and the first consignment of blocks was made in Masterton by Deco Precasters. When the Cape Palliser road was out by a storm in 2023, the council came on board and HEX LOC was used for its repair. “We couldn’t have chosen a better location if we were looking for proof of concept. In May this year a massive storm came in from the Antarctic with sustained 120kph winds across the Cook Strait, and the HEX-LOC® structure stood up incredibly well, whereas the more traditionally used Rip Rap was annihilated,” says Rachael Mackman, business development manager HEX-LOC®NZ Ltd. Precast concrete manufacturer and civil projects contractor Lattey Group was so impressed with its potential that it purchased the EcoReef® rights and intellectual property, renaming it HEX-LOC® to capture its two essential features – its hexagonal shape and its interlocking nature. For over 71 years Stratmore has been a 100% New Zealand owned family business, proudly manufacturing and delivering trusted products to the building and construction industry. Today, we're proud to partner with Lattey Group, to bring HexLock-Ecoreef to Aotearoa and the world. From fibre reinforcement to sealants, coatings, waterproofing and epoxies, Stratmore provides products and expertise you can trust. Stratmore & Lattey Group Building Excellence Together www.stratmore.co.nz 0800 835 699
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