70 | CONTRACTING Aotea Electric - Canterbury Precision and foresight underpins success The $103 million science facility is an architectural and scientific landmark set to host nearly 300 researchers and staff, dedicated to advancing agricultural innovation throughout New Zealand. “It was a large team effort where we had to manage stringent technical requirements across laboratory spaces while integrating advanced energy systems and maintaining collaboration with partners...” Aotea Electric Canterbury has been recognised for its technical proficiency and project- management skills for its high-calibre, electrical installation work within the newly opened AgResearch facility, Tuhiraki, at Lincoln University. The $103 million science facility is an architectural and scientific landmark set to host nearly 300 researchers and staff, dedicated to advancing agricultural innovation throughout New Zealand. Aotea Electric Canterbury was honoured with the Gold Award in the $1m to $5m category of the national Master Electricians Excellence Awards 2024. “It was a large team effort where we had to manage stringent technical requirements across laboratory spaces while integrating advanced energy systems and maintaining collaboration with partners like main contractor Naylor Love and electrical engineers, Cosgrove’s,” says contracts manager Tim Kennedy. Located at Ellesmere Junction Road, on land purchased from the university, the facility comprises two interconnected buildings with office spaces and highly specialised physical containment (PC2 and PC3 rated) laboratories. These laboratories demand stringent containment measures to prevent pathogen escape, making the project both complex and high stakes. “It was an intricate project that demanded a high level of precision and foresight,” says Tim. Aotea Electric Canterbury’s role in this largescale project spanned the supply, installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance of the facility. The scope of works involved installing sophisticated electrical systems, including KNX lighting controls, UV lighting for insect rooms, and a Quasar energy-management system for continuous power monitoring. These systems enable AgResearch to carefully monitor energy usage, a critical factor in maintaining operational efficiency within a highly regulated laboratory environment. This Quasar capability not only enhances sustainability but also ensures that the facility remains adaptable to future demands. “With the Quasar system, AgResearch can monitor its energy consumption closely, which aligns perfectly with their goals for sustainable research facilities,” says Tim. “This system is a powerful tool for efficiency. “Our commitment to quality was essential, especially in spaces like pressurised laboratories where every cable seal mattered. Ensuring that each entry and exit point for cabling was airtight required precision at every stage.” The three-year project, which was completed in April 2024, required Aotea Electric’s team of up to 20 to work in conjunction with other trades under challenging conditions, including crowded workspaces and the disruptions of the Covid 19 pandemic. Aotea Electric’s staff tackled logistical and technical challenges head-on. The team emT T Bernadette Cooney ployed a rigorous quality assurance process, requiring meticulous documentation and regular inspections to meet high standards mandated by both the local council and Labworks, which provided laboratory-specific compliance oversight. One significant challenge was installing 12 x 630mm/sq cables to a rooftop plant room, each over 100 metres long. The Aotea Electric Canterbury team developed a strategy to crane the cable drums on to the roof and then winch them down a riser avoiding other services. This collaborative problem-solving approach exemplifies the depth of expertise Aotea brings to complex projects. “Our success is due to teamwork and adaptability,” Tim says. “It was a big team effort where everyone involved contributed to its smooth execution.” In addition to the category Gold Award for its work at Tuhiraki, Tim was personally honoured with the Industry Champion Award at the 2024 Master Electricians Awards of Excellence. This reflects his broader dedication to keeping the industry moving forward, extending to his recent election as president of the Master Electricians Canterbury & Westland branch and his contributions to the National Presidents Advisory Forum. “Supporting the Master Electricians network is vitally important for the future of our trade,” says Tim. “Upholding and enhancing industry standards, representing our members at a national level and supporting and fostering a culture of excellence.” We are the largest and preferred electrical providers in Christchurch and across the Canterbury region. Aotea Electric Canterbury 03 365 9712 service.chch@aoteaelectric.co.nz www.aoteaelectriccanterbury.co.nz
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