Business South June 2026

Volume 35 | Issue 4 | June 2026 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Gibbston gets golfing Gibbston Valley has added another piece to its tourism offering, with the opening of its nine-hole golf course and clubhouse....  Page 14

2 | Contents 10| Waitaki wonder Oamaru’s newly opened Network Waitaki Event Centre is a transformational project for the district. 66| New home Timaru-based Alpine Buildings and Attika have consolidated their operations in Washdyke. 98| Cardrona style The Homestead at Mt Cardrona Station has been shortlisted for a New Zealand Institute of Architects award. 66 98 10 #businesssouth #yourstory www.waterfordpress.co.nz   Central Otago Electrical �� 03 Rio Tinto �� 04 Alpine Energy �� 05 Nurse Maude �� 06 University of Otago �� 08 Waitaki Events Centre �� 10 Gibbston Valley �� 14 MTM Group �� 17 Coronet Ridge �� 18 Quantum Commercial Property 20 Majestic Mansions �� 22 Glen Dene Holdings �� 26 Waimea Group �� 28 Civil Construction Ltd �� 30 Lakes Industrial Park �� 34 CMT Group NZ �� 35 HamiltonJet �� 36 Ashburton College �� 38 ITM - Gore �� 40 Hawkeswood Mining �� 41 Holcim NZ �� 42 BSP Fuels �� 43 Mataura Valley Milk �� 44 Alex McDonald �� 45 Cable Logging Geraldine �� 46 Clive Wilson Switchboards �� 48 Tru-Bilt �� 49 OUR PARTNERS: T&C’s: These conditions are prescribed for the sake of understanding between the Waterford Press Ltd and its clients. 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Techmatics �� 50 Harward and Son �� 51 IXOM �� 52 Adams & Currie �� 53 Central Drainlaying �� 54 Clarke Automation Consultants �� 56 AMTEC Electrical �� 58 Dawson Electrical �� 59 Harrex Electrical �� 60 Curle Contracting �� 61 Bright Sparks Electrical �� 62 Premier Insulation Southland �� 62 Master Craft Concrete Pumping �� 63 The Decking Guys �� 64 Nayland Scaffold �� 64 Canterbury Concrete Cutting �� 65 Alpine Buildings NZ �� 66 Bluzzo �� 69 Redwood Group �� 70 Arusha Properties �� 72 Lime Developments �� 73 Cambridge Estate Subdivision �� 74 Darfield Estates �� 76 Lancewood Subdivision �� 77 Blue Sky Property �� 78 Flagstaff Dunedin �� 79 Jennian Homes Central Otago �� 80 Signature Homes Central Otago ��81 South Living ��82 Dreamland Homes ��83 Bespoke Builds ��84 Tao Homes ��86 BJ Carter Builders ��86 Refresh Renovations ��88 Legacy Builders Tasman ��89 Absolute Homes ��90 Jackson Crooks Building ��92 KJ Building ��93 RN Building ��94 JB Allan Builders ��95 Fineline Architecture ��96 Sharlene Browning ��97 Leuschke Group Architects ��98 Arete Architects �� 100 Wright & Gray Architects �� 100 Lime Real Estate �� 101 Xclusive Property Management �� 101 Summerset Group Holdings �� 102 Qestral Corporation �� 104 Golden Bay High School �� 106 Maruawai College �� 107 Evnex �� 108 Christchurch Office 112 Wrights Road, Addington, Christchurch Phone 03-983 5500 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Queenstown Office 70 Glenda Drive, Queenstown 9300 MANAGING DIRECTOR James Lynch james@waterfordpress.co.nz BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Chris Pearce chris.pearce@waterfordpress.co.nz EDITORIAL Editor Nick Gormack nick@waterfordpress.co.nz SUB-EDITORS Christine Defilice, Margaret Landauer WRITERS Alexia Anderson, Emma Bailey, Kim Bowden, Kelly Deeks, Hugh de Lacy, Russell Fredric, Kim Newth, Sue Russell, Karen Phelps, Rosa Watson, Aimee Wilson, Virginia Wright RESEARCH & MARKETING James Anderson, Sam Dart, Chris Graves, Megan Hawkins, Annie Patrick, Chris Pearce, Danielle Percival, Adam Shirra, Leo Smith, Alasdair Thomson sales@waterfordpress.co.nz PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT General Manager Luke Lynch luke@waterfordpress.co.nz Graphic Artists Anton Gray, Francesca Hildawa, Liki Udam art@waterfordpress.co.nz CONTENT COORDINATORS Alissa Crosby, Ann-Marie Frentz, Josie Villa, Michelle Phelan OFFICE AND ACCOUNTS Lyn Barlow lyn@waterfordpress.co.nz

| 3 “As we celebrate 30 years in the industry, we’re also looking to the future, continuing to evolve with technology while staying true to the values the business was built on.” T T Alexia Anderson Celebrating decades of dedication The company delivers a broad scope of services — from residential and commercial work through to complex industrial projects and solar installations. REGIONAL Central Otago Electrical HIRE, SALES AND SERVICE OF QUALITY POWER GENERATORS 0800 230 400 | www.qpower.co.nz Whether you need emergency generation for a short-term fault, a large industrial backup power system or a regular service plan undertaken by specialist QPower technicians, QPower has a solution for you. POWER Specialists in designing and building: • Underground power for subdivisions • Streetlighting • Overhead power lines • New connections and supply capacity upgrades • Cable locating and fault finding 0800 188 897 centralprojects@4nes.co.nz www.nescentral.co.nz 20 Venning Cr, Cromwell Central Otago Electrical is proudly celebrating 30 years of service to the region — a milestone that reflects decades of dedication, growth, and strong community connections. Originally established by Greg Hamill and Gordon Gutzewitz following the disestablishment of the electrical contracting arm of the local power board, the business has grown from a small team of five electricians and two administrators into what is now a skilled team of 13. Owner, electrician/electrical inspector Shane Harrex took full ownership in April last year, after purchasing into the business alongside Greg in 2014. While Greg has stepped aside, he remains a valued member of the team. Shane, who is proud to now be the sole owner, says it has been very rewarding fulfilling the succession plan for Greg and progressing the business and team through changes to ensure opportunities and direction moving forward. It’s all made possible for Shane by the support of his wife Cindy whilst they manage work life alongside raising four young kids aged five, three and one-year-old twins. A strong focus on developing people has remained central to the company’s success. Many apprentices have progressed through the ranks over the years, helping shape a team that takes pride in delivering high-quality workmanship. “Seeing our team step into new roles and succeed has been one of the most satisfying parts of the journey,” Shane says. “We’ve got an exceptional group of people, and that’s what drives the business forward.” As Central Otago Electrical marks 30 years in business, Shane says the company’s success is built on the trust it has earned with its customers. “It’s a privilege to work alongside our clients to deliver a range of complex projects and smaller service-related work together to achieve the best possible outcomes for community and customers,” he says. Today, the company delivers a broad scope of services — from residential and commercial work through to complex industrial projects and solar installations. Recent highlights include working with various mining operators, as well as projects across local orchards — including controlled environmental blocks, solar installations, and plant and control solutions for local infrastructure, also including many local building firms. “Our clients are loyal and our trade and supplier relationships support us well to ensure we deliver a high standard of service.” Shane is quick to credit the team behind these achievements. “Our people and relationships are the single most important part of who we are and what we do. The strength of our team is what allows us to deliver at a high level.” He emphasises the importance of investing in staff development and ensuring the right expertise is matched to each project — a key factor in maintaining efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction. As the industry continues to evolve towards smarter, more energy-efficient solutions, Central Otago Electrical has adapted alongside System Integration | Control Systems | PLC and Scada Custom Software Development | Power Distribution and Motor Control Proud to support Central Otago Electrical www.switchbuild.co.nz it. Solar, in particular, has become a major area of focus, with growing demand from both residential and commercial clients. “As we celebrate 30 years in the industry, we’re also looking to the future, continuing to evolve with technology while staying true to the values the business was built on.” With strong community ties, a highly skilled team, and a clear direction forward, Central Otago Electrical is well positioned to build on its legacy, honouring its past while embracing the opportunities ahead.

4 | Smelter transforming workplace culture A workplace transformation programme at New Zealand Aluminium Smelter has seen the business recognised as a finalist in the Respectful Culture category at the 2026 Diversity Awards NZ. REGIONAL Rio Tinto T T Russell Fredric “People don’t avoid the conversations — they lean into them, guided by care, courage, and curiosity.” 4 V I C T O R I A A V E N U E , I N V E R C A R G I L L Phone 03 218 3200 | admin@ajautoelectrical.net.nz Specialists in All Auto Electrical Repairs & Servicing Delkor battery specialist Caravan electrical and solar Air Conditioning Auto electrical repairs & servicing Proudly associated with Rio Tinto A three-year workplace transformation programme at New Zealand Aluminium Smelter has seen the business recognised as a finalist in the Respectful Culture category at the 2026 Diversity Awards NZ. NZAS HR Business Partner Angela Schrider says the recognition reflects a broad cultural shift across the Tiwai Point site where practical changes, employee-led initiatives and stronger day-to-day conversations around inclusion, have become embedded into the business. From redesigned facilities and uniforms to leadership development and cultural partnerships with Ngāi Tahu, the Everyday Respect programme has reshaped how people work and interact across the smelter. The programme emerged following the release of an independent global report commissioned by parent company Rio Tinto in 2022, which identified concerning levels of sexual harassment, bullying and racism across its workplaces. “Three years ago, New Zealand Aluminium Smelter (NZAS) started on a challenging but critical journey,” Angela says. While the report grouped findings by country rather than site, NZAS recognised the results directly reflected experiences within its own workforce. The findings prompted leadership to reassess long-standing workplace behaviours and systems within what has traditionally been a male-dominated industrial environment. “The Everyday Respect results were eye-opening to the leadership team: 45.8% of women had experienced sexual harassment, and Māori, Pasifika, and Asian members had experienced racist comments.” NZAS began by engaging directly with employees through feedback sessions, reviews and workshops to better understand where barriers and behavioural issues existed. Leadership development became an early priority, with workshops focused on psychological safety, inclusion and improving confidence around difficult conversations. “To find our path, we started with our people. Employee feedback, site-wide reviews, and people analytics highlighted structural barriers and cultural issues.” The Everyday Respect programme was then integrated into daily operations through shift-start discussions where crews regularly reflect on behaviours, teamwork and alignment with company values. Employee-led respect and wellbeing groups were also established to identify priorities and drive practical improvements across the site. This work extended into the physical environment. Gender-inclusive toilets, upgraded lighting and more private shower facilities were introduced, while uniforms were redesigned to better fit different body types and genders. Monthly reviews continue to identify further improvements across departments. NZAS also strengthened its bicultural approach through initiatives developed alongside Ngāi Tahu. A Cultural Induction Room now introduces visitors and employees to the history of the land and the concept of kaitiakitanga, while Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori activities and workshops have helped build wider cultural understanding across the workforce. “Leaders engaged in difficult conversations to understand employees’ experiences, confirming that the reported data reflected the workplace culture.” One of the programme’s more visible initiatives has been the Purple Banner process, which enables harmful behaviour to be reported through Rio Tinto’s confidential My Voice system. Learnings and outcomes are then discussed across crews, helping normalise conversations around accountability and respectful behaviour. Consequently, employees are now more willing to challenge inappropriate conduct and raise concerns openly, both within teams and at larger site meetings. Reporting through My Voice has increased, while staff surveys indicate stronger perceptions around safety, inclusion and psychological wellbeing. “People don’t avoid the conversations — they lean into them, guided by care, courage, and curiosity.” The programme has also coincided with a 49.4% proportional increase in women working in operational roles since June 2022, including within teams that had previously been entirely male. “Everyday Respect is lived every day, creating lasting cultural change.”

| 5 T TVirginia Wright Tangible benefits fromwellbeing initiative The success of Alpine Energy’s FullyCharged initiative was recently recognised when it was named a finalist for Wellbeing Programme of the Year at the 2026 New Zealand HR Awards. REGIONAL Alpine Energy Staff wellbeing is a major focus for Timaru-based electricity distribution business Alpine Energy. The community owned company - which owns, maintains, and operates the physical infrastructure of poles, wires and underground cables that deliver electricity - employs around 240 staff, and distributes power to over 34,000 homes and businesses in South Canterbury through energy retailers. Owned by Timaru District Holdings Limited, the Waimate and Mackenzie District Councils along with Lines Trust South Canterbury, its service area stretches over 10,000sqkm from the Rangitata River to the Waitaki River, and from the east coast to Aoraki/ Mount Cook. Staff wellbeing has been a key focus area for the business over the last two years, and in particular for Susan Lowe, one of their Executives. Susan has the official title of Chief People and Organisational Performance Officer which means, as she puts it, that she looks after all things to do with people, safety and business transformation. She has been a driving force behind a wellbeing initiative that has positively influenced all three. “All things ‘people’ essentially covers everything our people experience in the workplace, and wellbeing is clearly a big part of that. “It also crosses over directly into safety. We’re a safety-critical organisation dealing with electricity daily and if things aren’t done properly, it can have severe consequences. “That’s why it’s so important that our people are fit, well and supported, so they can make strong, safe decisions out in the field and when planning work,” Susan explains. Two years ago, Alpine Energy recognised wellbeing efforts were lacking and not holistic. There was little clarity for staff around how to focus on their wellbeing, and what being fit for work meant from a wellbeing perspective, so they set out to change that. They began by talking with their people across the business, from toolbox sessions to listening groups with wellness ambassadors, union delegates, and safety representatives. Over two solid weeks they proactively ran multiple information and feedback sessions. “We wanted to understand what was already working, what barriers were preventing people from accessing what was available, and what they wanted us to do differently to support wellness and enable fitness for work,” says Susan. “That’s why it’s so important that our people are fit, well and supported, so they can make strong, safe decisions out in the field and when planning work.” “Our wellbeing programme, FullyCharged, is what came out of that engagement and gave a clear identity to the work we were doing.” The 2024 programme was built around five pillars: a wellbeing calendar to provide ongoing guidance and engagement opportunities; specialist education through The Great Recharge Programme supported by MyEveryDay Wellbeing offering individual tools and strategies just as useful at home as at work; building capability through training and leadership sessions; refreshing existing wellness activities under the FullyCharged banner; and reimagining benefits to ensure tangible support for employees. “The response was fantastic, and the engagement with the simple concepts around energy and recharging from The Great Recharge was awesome to see, but we knew we wanted to do more,” says Susan. FullyCharged continues to evolve and improve, designed to ensure staff at Alpine Energy come to work feeling well: physically, mentally, and emotionally. In 2025, additional learning and capability-building opportunities were introduced, and employees can also now customise wellbeing benefits to best suit their individual needs. Its success was recently recognised when it was named a finalist for Wellbeing Programme of the Year at the 2026 New Zealand HR Awards. More importantly, FullyCharged is making a tangible difference in the daily lives of the people who keep the lights on in South Canterbury. FullyCharged continues to evolve and improve, designed to ensure staff at Alpine Energy come to work feeling well: physically, mentally, and emotionally.

6 | Nurse Maude New purpose-built hospice unveiled Nurse Maude’s new, purpose-built hospice facility in Christchurch was officially opened on May 13. T TKaren Phelps REGIONAL Proud to work alongside Nurse Maude Cost Managers | Quantity Surveyors | Cost Engineers Auckland | Wellington | Christchurch | Dunedin www.rawlinsons.co.nz ONE TEAM - OUTSTANDING RESULTS Nurse Maude’s new, purpose-built hospice facility in Christchurch was officially opened on May 13, with patients due to move into the building from June 17. Designed by Christchurch-based Sheppard and Rout Architects, and constructed by Cook Brothers Construction, the facility has been purpose-built to support both patients and their whānau through some of life’s most challenging moments, says Nurse Maude, Hospice Service Manager Jane Rollings. The hospice accommodates up to 11 patients, including a dedicated space for paediatric and youth care, with each room offering privacy and views of landscaped gardens. The design moves well beyond clinical functionality, placing equal importance on comfort, dignity and connection. “While a hospice service is a philosophy of care, with most support being provided in people’s own homes, we still need a small inpatient building for those requiring specialist care,” says Jane. “This is where people come for expert symptom management and end-of-life care.” The new building replaces a refurbished dementia unit that, while functional, fell short of modern expectations. The purpose-built facility allows it to better meet the needs of patients, particularly younger ones. “A key feature is the dedicated paediatric room,” Jane says. “We have always cared for children, but we now have a space that properly supports them and their families.” Central to the design is a holistic model of care, underpinned by values including mahi kotahi (working as one), manaaki (care and respect), tikanga (cultural integrity), wairua (spiritual wellbeing) and whānaukataka (relationships and kinship). These values are not simply guiding principles, but are physically expressed throughout the building. “This hospice tells a story,” says Jane. “Every element of the design reflects our commitment to caring for the whole person, not just their physical needs, but their emotional, spiritual and cultural wellbeing.” From the moment visitors arrive, the cultural narrative is evident. The entranceway references Te Tai Pari o te Wai - the movement of water upon the shore - with haehae patterns symbolising the braided rivers of Canterbury, including the Ōtākaro Avon and Ōpāwaho Heathcote rivers. Inside, the nurse station features Ngā Ara, representing pathways and journeys, alongside Niho Taniwha patterns symbolising strength, resilience and protection. Pou designs and window manifestations continue this storytelling, weaving together themes of connection, spirituality and care. “These designs are about more than aesthetics,” Jane says. “They create a sense of peace, belonging and connection to Te Tai Ao, the natural world, which is incredibly important for people at the end of life and for those supporting them.” Whānau spaces have also been prioritised, with dedicated areas for families to rest, eat, and spend time together. Overnight accommodation ensures loved ones can remain close, reinforcing the hospice’s commitment to inclusivity and dignity. “Manaakitanga is at the heart of what we do,” says Jane . “Caring for families and creating spaces where they feel welcome and supported is essential.” The project has been years in the making. The Merivale site was purchased following the Christchurch earthquakes and used as a car park while fundraising efforts continued. A blessing by mana whenua Te Taumata Tapu o Ngāi Tūāhuriri in January 2025 marked the formal beginning of construction. The hospice’s completion has been made possible through significant community support, including donations from individuals, trusts and corporate partners, as well as proceeds from hospice shops and online sales. Supporter Denver Glass, whose late wife Libby worked as a nurse for the organisation, says contributing to the project has been deeply meaningful. “Libby loved the fact that no matter who you were, if you needed care, Nurse Maude was there for the most vulnerable in our community. She would be delighted that she is, through me, part of the ongoing commitment to continue providing care to those in need.”

| 7 Nurse Maude The hospice accommodates up to 11 patients, including a dedicated space for paediatric and youth care. REGIONAL Seismic Solutions for Nurse Maude Hospice Mechanical engineering consultancy Motovated Design & Analysis is proud to have contributed to the new purpose-built Nurse Maude hospice facility in Christchurch, providing specialist expertise in the seismic restraint of non-structural building elements. “Any commercial building includes a wide range of non-structural components such as suspended ceilings, partitions, HVAC systems, pipework, electrical infrastructure and ire suppression systems,” explains Motovated commercial director and senior engineer Stuart Jackson. “These elements must all be securely ixed to the building structure so they remain properly restrained during a design-level seismic event.” Seismic design of non-structural elements is a specialised area of engineering practice with relatively few engineers working in this ield in New Zealand, he says. Motovated has built a team with a combined 30 years’ experience in non-structural seismic restraint, including seven CPEng registered engineers able to issue producer statements, making it well placed for the project. The Nurse Maude project presented several challenges, including an unusually high proportion of timber structural and non-structural internal walls, which created complex interactions between elements. Ensuring compliance with ire safety and acoustic requirements added further constraints, while coordinating multiple layers of services such as HVAC ducting, pipework, tanks, cable trays and electrical systems required careful spatial planning. Developing cost-e ective bracing solutions that worked across all these systems demanded close collaboration with structural engineers Lewis Bradford, services engineers Cosgroves and architects Sheppard & Rout. “Working on the project was a constantly evolving process, demanding a coordinated approach,” explains senior engineer Alasdair Soja. “We specialise in active problem solving for issues that crop up to achieve a great result for the client. It’s about being lexible and responsive and having engineers open to di erent approaches to achieve the client’s vision, delivering cost-e ective designs that are practical to install while meeting building code requirements.” While Motovated is able to focus on individual services within a project, Stuart explains that coordinating the seismic bracing design across all non-structural elements, as was done on the Nurse Maude project, results in a more e icient overall solution. He adds that the company can also provide construction monitoring during installation, helping to con irm that designs are correctly implemented on site and assisting in resolving any issues that arise during construction. Both Stuart and Alasdair say involvement in the Nurse Maude hospice project has been particularly rewarding given its community focus, with the facility set to provide important care services in Christchurch. “This work re lects the growing importance of seismic resilience in healthcare infrastructure across New Zealand,” says Alasdair. Motovated: Expert Mechanical Engineering, Delivered • Health & Safety • Compliance Engineering • Non-Structural Seismic Restraint • Secondments SERVICES INCLUDING: • Mechanical Design • Mechanical Analysis • Product Development  www.motovated.co.nz  03 982 5283    www.linkedin.com/company/motovated-design-&-analysis-ltd-/ Motovated Design & Analysis are industry experts in advanced analysis of mechanical systems. We can test your design virtually to ensure your products are robust and get them to market in a timely and cost effective manner. Our expert engineers can develop a robust and reliable solution, whatever your needs! “It’s about being lexible and responsive and havingmechanical and chartered professional engineers open to di erent approaches to achieve the client’s vision, delivering cost e ective designs that are practical to install as well as achieving adherence to the building code.”

8 | The University of Otago/Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka has completed a $14 million transformation of its 1923 Consumer and Applied Science building, officially renaming it the Annie Stevenson Building. The Category I historic landmark has been repurposed from specialised, but dated, laboratory, learning and office spaces into an open-plan office environment for the university’s executive leadership team, including vice-chancellor Grant Robertson. The project has gained significant industry recognition, shortlisted for two Property Council New Zealand awards: the Heritage and Adaptive Reuses Property Award and the Commercial Office Property Award. Gordon Roy, the acting director of property and campus development, says the project originated in 2018 as a refurbishment for the Department of Food Science. However, the scope quickly changed after a seismic assessment identified the building as earthquake-prone, requiring a total exit of the building. Then, the Covid-19 pandemic accelerated a rethink of campus space. Rather than returning to the original plan, the university adapted to changing educational demands by converting the building into a hub for collaborative, modern office work. “It started off as a food science project and ended up getting delivered as a new home for the vice-chancellor and senior leadership team. It’s not your typical project pathway,” Gordon says. Strengthening measures to address the seismic deficiencies were designed to be discreet, preserving the iconic bluestone and Oamaru stone exterior and maintaining positive heritage outcomes. Engineers utilised vertical grout injection and horizontal tensioning rods that wrap around the building’s perimeter, essentially ‘tying’ it together, while internal work included rebuilding two main spine walls from the foundations up. “There’s an awful lot of work that’s gone into the building that you don’t see,” Gordon says. “Sometimes, that’s the mark of a good heritage project – that you finish the building and it looks largely untouched.” Interior spaces have not been partitioned off for traditional closed-in offices; instead, five ‘meeting pods’ sit like stand-alone rooms within the high-ceilinged spaces. “The project was also an opportunity for the vice-chancellor and his leadership team to lead by example, modelling the use of open-plan space,” Gordon says. A passenger lift that had been ‘shoehorned’ into the original staircase was removed, allowing the restoration of the timber stairs University of Otago/Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka Heritage retained in building upgrade As part of the transformation, the 1923 Consumer and Applied Science building has been officially renamed the Annie Stevenson Building, in honour of the noted food science alumna. T TKim Bowden REGIONAL contractors of choice Painters & Decorators JAMES WREN & CO LTD 50 Carroll Street PH: 03 477 9384 www.wrens.co.nz EST 1896 Contracting Painting, Decorating Programmed Maintenance Solid Plastering Specialist Coating Tiling Textured Coating as a central architectural feature. Further design elements were integrated with the help of Dunedin consultants, iwi-led Aukaha, with Kāi Tahu artist Ross Hemera creating custom artwork for the building’s glass partitions and fabric wall linings, using patterns that tell the story of the local land and its people. “The interior speaks to a more modern way of working, providing a positive adaptive reuse of one of our many heritage buildings on campus,” Gordon says. The new name honours Annie Stevenson, a food science alumna. “This was a great opportunity for the university to champion female alumni, celebrating their achievements through naming of buildings and facilities, of which there are currently few recognised on campus,” Gordon says. The university is one of the largest custodians of heritage buildings in New Zealand, managing approximately 25 scheduled structures. “Managing the property portfolio requires a constant trade-off between honouring the university’s legacy and meeting the functional, financial, and technological demands of a modern campus,” Gordon says. “We are deeply committed to our heritage assets, and this is a great example of adaptive reuse, security the building for future generations to enjoy.” T: 03 477 5214 E: architect@bakergarden.co.nz W: www.bakergarden.co.nz Proud to provide architectural services to the University of Otago PROUD TO SUPPORT University of Otago Since 2006 Specialist heritage stone, plaster and brickwork. wainwrightandhickey.co.nz

| 9 The Category I historic landmark has been repurposed from specialised, but dated, laboratory, learning and office spaces into an open-plan office environment for the university’s executive leadership team. REGIONAL University of Otago/Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka DBC Building Services was one of the contractors involved in the refurbishment of a Category 1 heritage building at the University of Otago/Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka, delivering plumbing, drainage, heating, ventilation and air conditioning services. The main challenge DBC faced was that the heritage building was not originally designed with the space or provisions required for contemporary building services. In particular, the second- loor ceiling void became a signi icant pinch point, needing to accommodate a large air handling unit alongside extensive ductwork and pipework serving the rooms below. Coordinating services within these con ined areas, while also ensuring future access for maintenance and servicing, required a high level of problem-solving and precision. The successful outcome is a testament to the skill and experience of the installation team, the company says. Minimising the visual impact of modern services was also a key priority throughout the project. The refurbishment converted former laboratory and teaching spaces into o ice areas while retaining the building’s original character. The building now includes radiators, cassettes, fan coil units, heat exchangers, an air handling unit and chillers designed to maintain comfort through Dunedin’s seasonal conditions. DBC says heat exchangers help improve e iciency by recovering and reusing heat energy within the system, helping reduce running costs and the building’s carbon footprint. The project also used laser scanning, 3D modelling and weekly OpenSpace reality capture to map existing building conditions, identify coordination issues early and track site progress. OpenSpace technology aligned walkthrough video footage with loorplans, allowing project teams to monitor progress remotely. DBC coordinated its mechanical and hydraulic services models alongside architectural and structural models to identify and resolve clashes before installation began. Founded by David Browne, DBC Building Services is a New Zealand-owned company with branches in Dunedin, Christchurch, Queenstown and, most recently, Nelson. While the company has expanded signi icantly, it remains rooted in the family values upon which it was built. The company employs approximately 120 sta , alongside a similar number of labour-hire workers across the South Island. Its work covers heating and ventilation, plumbing and drainage, laser scanning, sheet metal fabrication, medical gases, pool water services and maintenance across commercial and residential projects. Whether working on hospitals, schools, or heritage landmarks, DBC remains committed to delivering high-quality mechanical services with a strong focus on collaboration, health and safety, and achieving successful project outcomes. Overcoming heritage challenges Heating & Ventilation Sheet Metal / SS Fabrication Medical Gases LPG Plumbing & Drainage Design, Build & Commissioning Maintenance Heating, Ventilation & Plumbing Solutions for the South Island Proudly NZ Owned and Operated We have you covered from Design and Build right through to Installation and Commissioning along with ongoing Maintenance services. Nothing is too big or small for DBC Building Services. dbcbuildingservices.co.nz T: 03 474 0500 E: enquiries@dbcco.co.nz Laser Scanning

10 | T T to page 12 REGIONAL Waitaki District Council/Network Waitaki Events Centre Trust T T Karen Phelps New centre a new chapter for Waitaki “Whether it’s school sports, community events, performances or private functions, this building has been designed to adapt.” The newly opened Network Waitaki Event Centre is being hailed as a transformational project for the Waitaki district, with community leaders describing it as far more than just a sports venue. Opened in May at Centennial Park in Oamaru, the six-court complex is the first indoor facility of its kind in the region, and has been designed to host everything from major sporting tournaments to conferences, conventions, performances and community gatherings. Waitaki District Mayor Mel Tavendale says the scale of the development is something many people will not fully appreciate until they walk through the doors. “We have never had anything like this in the district,” she says. “People don’t understand how big the space really is. You could have six different sports going on at the same time in the same building.” The centre includes six sprung timber courts capable of hosting basketball, netball, futsal, volleyball, badminton, pickleball and court tennis. There is also a large, multi-purpose area, changing facilities, kitchen and kiosk spaces, office facilities and upstairs meeting and conference rooms with an outdoor balcony overlooking the park. It is already becoming a hub for local organisations, with tenants including Sport Waitaki and the North Otago Rugby Football Union. Youthtown and other community groups are also expected to make use of the facility. Accessibility and inclusivity were central to the design. Wider doorways, accessible changing and shower facilities and a ceiling-mounted sky hoist ensure the centre can cater for users of all ages and abilities. Mel says making the facility welcoming and flexible was a major priority. “It needed to be a place the whole community could use,” she says. “Whether it’s school sports, community events, performances or private functions, this building has been designed to adapt.” The venue also includes retractable seating, indoor cricket training facilities, interactive sports technology and hireable upstairs convention rooms, adding to its versatility. Waitaki District Council chief executive Alex Parmley says the project represents years of planning and strong community backing. This is THE perfect venue for your event! SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE MORE THAN SPORTϙϱϙťēôŘôϙÍŘôϙÍīŜĺϙıĺîôŘljϠϙƲôƄĖæīôϙŜŕÍèôŜϙťēÍťϙ ÍŘôϙŜŪĖťÍæīôϙċĺŘϙıôôťĖljČŜϠϙèĺljċôŘôljèôŜϙÍljîϙŜŕôèĖÍīϙċŪljèťĖĺljŜϟ SIXϙıŪīťĖċŪljèťĖĺljÍīϙĖljîĺĺŘϙèĺŪŘťŜϙ îôŜĖČljôîϙťĺϙÍèèĺııĺîÍťôϙæÍŜħôťæÍīīϠϙ ljôťæÍīīϠϙŽĺīīôƅæÍīīϙÍljîϙÍϙſĖîôϙŘÍljČôϙĺċϙ ĺťēôŘϙŜŕĺŘťŜ ALL WEATHER TRAININGϙſĖťēϙÍϙîôîĖèÍťôîϙıŪīťĖϱ ŪŜôϙŜŕÍèôϙťēÍťϙèÍljϙèÍťôŘϙċĺŘϙĖljîĺĺŘϙèŘĖèħôťϙÍljîϙ ıĺŘôϟϙIljèīŪîĖljČϙæĺſīĖljČϙıÍèēĖljôŜϙÍljîϙÍϙıŪīťĖϱæÍīīϙ ĖljťôŘÍèťĖŽôϙŜèŘôôljϙÍϙèŘôÍťĖljČϙÍϙƅôÍŘϱŘĺŪljîϙťŘÍĖljĖljČϙ ôljŽĖŘĺljıôljťϙċĺŘϙīĺèÍīϙŕīÍƅôŘŜϟ >ĺŘϙıĺŘôϙĖljċĺŘıÍťĖĺljϙĺŘϙťĺϙæĺĺħϙƅĺŪŘϙŜŕÍèôϙ ČĺϙťĺϙēťťŕŜϡϯϯſſſϟſÍĖťÍħĖϟČĺŽťϟljƏϯ>ÍèĖīĖťĖôŜϯ bôťſĺŘħϱ®ÍĖťÍħĖϱôŽôljťϱèôljťŘô IS OPEN! Open Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-8.30pm | Sat 8.30am-5pm | Sun 9.30am-3.30pm

| 11 REGIONAL Waitaki District Council/Network Waitaki Events Centre Trust The six-court complex is the first indoor facility of its kind in the region, and has been designed to host everything from major sporting tournaments to conferences, conventions, performances and community gatherings. YOUR DESIGN AND BUILD PARTNER. Food Processing Dairy Winery & Beverage Retail, Commercial & Industrial Sports & Aquatics Extensions & Refurbishments Proud to have delivered the Network Waitaki Events Centre alongside our project partners. apolloprojects.co.nz

12 | New centre a new chapter for Waitaki Local philanthropists Doug and Donna Hurst pledged to match every dollar donated by local businesses and families up to $5m, helping galvanise fundraising efforts across the district. T T from page 10 REGIONAL Waitaki District Council/Network Waitaki Events Centre Trust • PLUMBING • GASFITTING • DRAINLAYING • INDOOR & OUTDOOR HEATING SOLUTIONS • WEBER BBQ SPECIALIST • SPA POOLS • DOMESTIC • COMMERCIAL LPG GAS DELIVERIES 8AM-5PM HEAT & HOME SHOWROOM HOURS 9AM-5PM 224 Thames St, Oamaru Ph 03 433 0011 info@hiflo.co.nz www.hiflo.co.nz “This is much more than a sports centre,” he says. “It gives the district a place for conferences, performances, exhibitions, tournaments and events that simply could not happen here before.” The project grew out of longstanding concerns about the lack of regulation indoor courts and quality event facilities in the district. Studies undertaken with Sports Otago identified a shortage of indoor venues suitable for basketball, netball and other sports, while also highlighting missed opportunities to attract regional competitions and events. Alex says the new facility changes that completely. “It creates opportunities for economic growth as well as community wellbeing,” he says. “When you can host tournaments and conferences, people stay in local accommodation, eat in local cafes and restaurants and spend money throughout the district.” The Waitaki District Council committed up to $15 million towards the development, but community support proved equally important in bringing the vision to life. Local philanthropists Doug and Donna Hurst pledged to match every dollar donated by local businesses and families up to $5 million, helping galvanise fundraising efforts across the district. Mel says that sense of local ownership has become one of the defining features of the project. “This was a community-led and community-funded project from the beginning,” she says. “There was over- whelming support when the proposal went out for consultation. People understood what this facility could mean for the future of Waitaki.” Construction was undertaken through a design-and-build contract with Apollo Projects, with a strong focus placed on using local subcontractors. “Building a project of this scale was challenging for our district,” says Alex. “But a concerted effort was made to subcontract work locally when possible so that money flowed back to benefit the community.” The facility has also been carefully designed to reflect both the surrounding landscape and the district’s identity. Ōamaru stone has been incorporated into the building design to connect it visually with the region, and Ngāi Tahu senior artist Ross Hemera created cultural artwork inspired by the Waitaki River and developed in consultation with Te Rūnanga o Moeraki. The artwork incorporates the riporipo motif, representing both the swirling movement and calm flow of the river, while also symbolising energy, community interaction and shared aspirations. Sustainability features include rainwater harvesting tanks, LED lighting with smart controls, thermally broken joinery, high- performance insulation, secure bike parking and provision for future EV charging infrastructure. Alex says the centre is also expected to strengthen Centennial Park’s role as a major sporting hub for North Otago. Phase 2 of the project, expected to begin later this year, will involve the construction of a covered grandstand attached to the side of the building, funded by the North Otago Rugby Football Union and the Events Centre Trust. Alex says the opening marks the beginning of a new chapter for the district. “This facility gives Waitaki confidence,” he says. “It tells people this district is ambitious, connected and prepared to invest in opportunities for future generations.” Mel encourages residents to embrace the venue and help ensure it thrives. “We want people to support this new community facility and make the Waitaki district proud,” she says. “The exciting thing is that this building can become whatever the community imagines it to be.”

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