Ara Institute of Canterbury: Rakaia Centre Refurbishment
Te Pūkenga: Rakaia Centre Refurbishment
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Te Pūkenga’s Ara Institute of Canterbury, the South Island's largest vocational training institute, serves about 25,000 students, offering certificates, diplomas, and degrees.
Recently, Te Pūkenga completed the revitalization of their Rakaia Centre (ALX Block). The ALX block underwent a thorough refurbishment to create a seamless student journey, serving as a central hub for learning, services, and socializing. The refurbishment involved a complete overhaul of a three-building complex, addressing both interior and exterior aspects.
National Group's role centered on revitalizing aesthetics through repainting, coupled with essential interior Gib repairs and plastering. The project balanced functionality for staff and students while orchestrating an overhaul within academic term timelines.
Unique challenges for exterior access were managed, including working above glass, varying heights, and rooftop works. A specialized ropes safety partner ensured high health and safety standards while safeguarding the glass structure. An Elevated Work Platform (EWP), positioned by a crane, efficiently tackled exterior height challenges while complying with health and safety protocols.
Maintaining safety and functionality of interior areas during refurbishment was crucial. Multiple teams worked concurrently inside and outside the building to ensure efficient workflow. Scaffolding in the atrium preserved interior access for staff and students.
Daily 5x5 reports to Te Pūkenga stakeholders and the National Group office upheld health and safety procedures and workmanship standards.
Daily 5x5 reports to Te Pūkenga stakeholders and the National Group office upheld health and safety procedures and workmanship standards. The reports tracked progress and informed Ara staff and students about work locations.
Interior and exterior repainting transformed the campus into an inviting hub, ready for the academic term and summer classes. The ALX Block's completion demonstrates successful project management, innovative problem-solving, daily communication, and commitment to maintaining functionality during renovation.
Key Project Highlights:
Comprehensive interior and exterior repainting of a multi-building complex
Precise interior Gib repairs and plastering for painting overhaul
Daily 5x5 reports for project tracking transparency
On-site functionality management for staff and students during renovation
Skillful project timeline synchronization with academic terms and summer classes
