Construction of rock features, a giraffe feeding platform, meerkat enclosure, watering hole and aviary within a live zoo environment
Early input and a swift process
For this exciting and complex project we provided comprehensive management services from very early in the design process. This included running an early contractor involvement arrangement so that the main contractors could provide specialist input into the project’s unique design issues, enabling a swifter construction process overall.
Coming together
We fostered a collaborative approach amongst the team members, which included American zoo experts Studio Hanson Roberts. The amount of stakeholder liaison needed was extensive given the number of species affected, and there was a real challenge to match the zoo’s aspiration for a high quality visitor attraction with the budget. This required rigorous value engineering throughout the project to balance needs and costs.
We developed a programme that divided the project into three main areas, to be completed concurrently. This was challenging due to the small site area and limited access but it ended up being a very successful strategy as works were completed in time for the planned opening.
Points of interest
- The Pridelands project is part of the zoo’s master plan for bringing the animals together into global zones and integrating different species into single enclosures.
- The ground conditions proved a real challenge, especially as much of the structural requirements for the aviary are hidden underground and behind themed elements.
- The whole team went the extra mile for the good of the project, which now provides a fantastic new facility for the Auckland Zoo and all its visitors.