Robert Bird Group (RBG), in a collaboration with Vickery Hyett, ME Engineers and other specialist sub-consultants, were appointed to provide concept design verification services for Te Kaha – the proposed Multi-Use Arena in Christchurch, New Zealand. This will be a new city landmark, developed as part of the rebuild following the 2011 earthquakes.

A consortium named Kōtui, led by BESIX Watpac, has been appointed to deliver the arena on a design and construct the basis for Christchurch City Council. RBG, working directly for the Council, overviewed the concept design to ensure it met the client brief, adhered to key best practice design guidelines and offered value for money.

In a later appointment, RBG was engaged by BESIX Watpac to provide construction engineering services during the Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) phase. The roof structure is free-standing (with no connection to the bowl), the seismic risk is considerable throughout construction, and logistical demands are challenging. Working with BESIX Watpac and their permanent works design team RBG has developed an efficient construction methodology and erection sequence using complex staged construction analysis to evaluate and control effects on the permanent works and inform the design of temporary works elements necessary for safe and efficient construction.