24 | T T Karen Phelps Engineering workshop due mid 2024 The design incorporates two lean-tos to signify the peaks of Aoraki. South Canterbury: Ara Institute & Colin Shore Building REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT The Ara | Te Pūkenga Engineering Workshop build project in Timaru is on schedule for completion by mid-2024, ready for its first intake of students. The approximately 800sqm building will replace the current facility which dates back to the 1960s. It will provide a mix of engineering spaces for activities including welding, fitting and turning, grinding and machining. Te Pūkenga Tumu Whenua ā-Rohe 4 | Executive Director – Region 4 Darren Mitchell says the new facility will provide better connection between the existing TJ and TX Blocks resulting in a shared learning precinct with opportunity for smoother workflow. It will also allow Ara to expand its training options, have improved space for learning and the flexibility to replace and change equipment in the future to meet the changing needs of industry. “It’s a move to a more contemporary learning environment reflective of the expectations of a modern educational facility and mimicking what would be found in the workplace,” he says. “It will ultimately lead to a far better learning experience for students.” “The building is being used for multiple training streams including gas and electric welding, lathe and machining and fabrication. It will allow for larger class sizes to suit our forecast growth in coming years and better work zones and areas for students.” The design and build project is being led by Colin Shore Builders. Darren says a key lesson learned from projects over the years is the huge value of having the build partner involved early in the process, as was the case with this project. “The sooner we can involve the construction partner, even in design phases, it really helps to smooth the path of construction and give confidence in terms of buildability and budget,” he says. Programme Manager Sean Gray agrees. “Via early contractor involvement, Colin Shore Builders helped save the project time and money. Owner Nigel is very pragmatic, and always looking for the easiest way to create things. He’s fantastic to work with.” “I’m always looking for good process that mitigates risk around time and cost,” adds Darren. “Other capital works projects over the years have demonstrated early contractor involvement enables us to achieve this so we really value involvement from our construction partners to de-risk the project as they bring their experience into the design and build phases.” Darren says utilising local contractors where possible was a focus including local architect John Rushton, who has reflected the region in the design incorporating two lean-tos to signify the peaks of Aoraki. Darren and Sean also cite the support of local energy company Alpine Energy and Morris Waddell Electrical that assisted the team early in the project. With the district’s strong history in the engineering, welding and fabrication fields, which have historically been based around the rural sector and port, this project holds special meaning, says Darren, enabling ākonga to be able to succeed in their careers. “Te Pūkenga recognises the importance of vocational and trade training to the future economic prosperity of South Canterbury,” says Darren. “ Our investment in this facility is proof of our commitment and should bring confidence to the region around the ability for students to participate in fit for purpose modern learning facilities at a local level. To maintain access to provision locally is a focus for Te Pūkenga so learners don’t have to leave the region to get the training and skills they require. menzies.group@xtra.co.nz PO Box 166, Timaru 7910 | Phone 03 684 8440 Proud to be associated with Ara Institute of Canterbury & Colin Shore Building 0800 102 324 Thewindow For ideas and advice about our exceptional windows and doors, talk to FairviewTimaru ph 03 688 7248 or visit us at 30 Washdyke Flat Road, Timaru. PROUD TO SUPPORT ARA INSTITUTE OF CANTERBURY LTD & COLIN SHORE BUILDING PLACEMAKERS TIMARU, OAMARU AND TWIZEL 0800 802 109 TOGETHER, WE’RE BUILDING NEW ZEALAND
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