| 31 T T Rosa Watson Tasman Alliance a win for the region The model has demonstrated that strong partnerships and alignment between local government and industry can lead to tangible community benefits. Tasman Alliance REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT An alliance between Downer NZ and the Tasman District Council to deliver road-maintenance projects across the region has proved hugely successful. Called the Tasman Alliance, the collaborative partnership was established five years ago to manage the extensive Tasman District road network. It delivers comprehensive, boundary-to-boundary asset management, including maintenance and renewals of road infrastructure. Core services include culvert renewals, road reconstruction, and surfacing renewals, ensuring the district’s transport network remains safe, reliable, and well-maintained “The success of the Tasman Alliance has been driven by a strong collaborative culture, shared goals, and a commitment to delivering value for the community,” says Tasman Alliance manager Drew Hayes. Key to its effectiveness has been the integration of council and contractor teams, Drew says. “This enabled efficient decision-making, innovation, and a focus on long-term asset management outcomes rather than shortterm fixes.” The alliance has delivered improved response times for maintenance issues, cost efficiencies through shared planning and resources, and high-quality delivery of road renewals such as culvert upgrades, resurfacing, and road reconstruction projects. Drew says the model has demonstrated that strong partnerships and alignment between local government and industry can lead to tangible benefits. “Given its success in Tasman, the alliance approach is certainly a model that could be adapted and applied in other regions across New Zealand, particularly where there is a desire to enhance service delivery and build long-term resilience in infrastructure networks.” An extension to the alliance was granted for an additional 12 months beyond the original contract period, which he says reflects the success of the partnership model, and the strong relationship developed between the parties. The alliance completed a major upgrade to one of Richmond’s most important transport links, and after a period of intensive work the road is now fully reopened – stronger, safer, and better equipped to meet the needs of the growing community. Built over 50 years ago, Wensley Road was never designed to handle the 8500 vehicle movements it now sees daily, Drew says. “Years of wear and increased demand meant urgent action was required. The full road closure, though a temporary inconvenience, allowed contractors to work efficiently and safely, completing the upgrade ahead of schedule.” The scale of the project was substantial, involving the removal of old tar coal layers, structural road strengthening, and precision work to widen key sections. Despite the challenges, collaboration with residents ensured the smooth delivery of a complex job, Drew says. “The support and patience of residents were outstanding. We’re also proud to have kept the focus on quality and the long-term benefits for Richmond and this vital transport link.” The road has been widened to include dedicated cycle lanes, improving safety and encouraging alternative transport. With a stronger, wider road, speed cushions have been removed, and the speed limit returned to 50km/h. The fully strengthened road has reduced the need for ongoing maintenance in the future, with a durable, smooth asphalt surface. “This upgrade marks a major step forward for Richmond’s transport infrastructure and reflects the council’s commitment to building safer, smarter roads,” says Drew. To support the district’s growing needs, the Tasman Alliance is continuing to invest in both people and technology, including bringing in additional expertise in asset management and digital engineering, as well as upgrading systems to enhance data-driven planning and decision-making. There is a strong culture of continual improvement, with teams actively seeking ways to innovate, streamline processes and deliver better outcomes for the community, Drew says. The contract extension provides valuable time to build on this momentum and shift into another gear, strengthening capability, refining systems, and exploring opportunities to expand services, he says. The future could see the adoption of predictive maintenance tools, smart infrastructure monitoring, and more sustainable construction practices. “There is also potential for the alliance model to extend beyond roading into other infrastructure services, offering a more integrated approach to asset management across the district.” We are Approved Contractors with the Nelson and Tasman District Councils meaning we can complete that entranceway shaping, driveway adjustment or new crossing that you may require. WE SPECIALISE IN... • INDUSTRIAL SITES • TENNIS COURTS • PATHS • DRIVEWAYS • DRAINAGE • CARPARKS CONSTRUCTION LTD ASPHALT & Talk to us about any job, no matter the size Proudly Working with the Tasman Alliance 0274 222 176 | 021 547 684 | 03 928 0676 | 19 McPherson Street, Richmond, Nelson 7020 | www.asphaltconstruction.co.nz jarod@asphaltandconstruction.co.nz | jason@asphaltandconstruction.co.nz | johnny@asphalconstruction.co.nz
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