Business North July 2025

| 9 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT University of Auckland & Hawkins Construction: Hiwa Recreation Centre SophisticatedModelling Total Ground Engineering's advanced modelling capabilities and collaborative approach have helped enable the safe excavation of the University of Auckland's new Hiwa Recreation Centre project. "It was a challenging basement excavation with multiple levels, some parts quite deep, with buildings, services and roads all around that had to be protected," explains Total Ground Engineering director Neil Jacka. "We had to collaborate closely with Hawkins, who gave us a plan of how they wanted to go about the excavation." The project required comprehensive temporary retaining solutions to protect surrounding infrastructure to enable safe excavation work. The team designed various support systems including timber and steel retaining walls, concrete piles, soil nails and ground anchors, tailoring each solution to the speci ic requirements. "Depending on constraints, such as access and room to move, we spoke with the contractor and devised solutions that also itted their plan," says Neil. The successful delivery showcased Total Ground Engineering's investment in cutting-edge technology, particularly its use of advanced three-dimensional inite element modelling to simulate excavation behaviour and predict ground deformation patterns. "It's probably the most advanced tool a geotechnical engineer can use," explains Neil. "This sophisticated modelling capability enables us to provide clients with more accurate predictions of ground behaviour, resulting in safer, more e icient project delivery while avoiding over-engineering that can in late costs unnecessarily." The Hiwa Recreation Centre project represents part of an ongoing relationship between Total Ground Engineering and Hawkins, with the irms having collaborated on multiple projects over several years. "This project shows we have good expertise in temporary works and our ability to collaborate with the client to deliver the desired end result," says Neil. Total Ground Engineering positions itself as specialists in complex ground engineering challenges, combining extensive industry experience with cutting-edge modelling technologies. The consultancy's multidisciplinary approach draws on civil, structural and geotechnical engineering expertise to deliver integrated solutions for challenging projects. The company's services span foundation design for commercial and industrial structures, telecommunication towers, renewable energy and infrastructure development. It also specialises in deep basement excavations, ground anchoring systems, and slope stabilisation works. Operating from its Auckland headquarters, the consultancy serves clients globally across multiple sectors including renewable energy, infrastructure, telecommunications and commercial development. Neil says the emphasis on early project engagement allows for more innovative solutions and its advanced modelling capabilities help clarify risks and optimise designs. Our multidisciplinary team of geotechnical, civil and structural engineers specialise in engineering design and advice on risk related to ground. • Assessment of Ground Conditions • Design - Commercial Foundations - Industrial Foundations - Tower Foundations - Deep Basements - Retention • Ground Anchoring • Temporary Works • Slope Stabilisation • Construction Supervision Services Sectors Contact Us to discuss your next project. Energy Infrastructure Telecommunications Commercial & Industrial hello@tge.co.nz www.tge.co.nz Experts in Ground Engineering Solutions

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