National Category Winner: Project: 224 Neilson StreetEntrantHaydn & Rollett Construction Project PartnersBBD - Barnes Beagley Doherr (Quantity Surveyor), Haydn & Rollett (Construction Company), Jonathan Walker Architects (Architect/Designer), Stephen Mitchell Engineers Ltd (Structural Engineer) Owned ByArgosy Property Ltd
Built on a complex brownfield site, 224 Neilson Street shows how industrial development can lead the shift toward a lower-carbon future. This dual 6 Green Star-rated warehouse and office project overcame challenging ground conditions and environmental sensitivities to deliver a high-performing logistics hub.
One of New Zealand’s largest rooftop solar arrays powers the facility, paired with EV-ready infrastructure to support green freight at scale. Despite its sustainability ambition, the building retains premium industrial performance, with tall clear spans, generous breezeways, and efficient heavy vehicle circulation. Beyond the site boundary, protected embankments and riparian planting transformed ecological constraints into a place-making opportunity.
The result is a scalable model for net-zero-aligned distribution in a prime industrial location. |
Project: SkyCity Production KitchenEntrantBLACK Project PartnersBLACK (Construction Company), Stiffe Hooker (Architect/Designer) Owned BySkyCity Auckland Limited
Thirty thousand labour hours were delivered beneath live hotel and gaming floors without a single unplanned interruption. BLACK’s refurbishment of the SkyCity Production Kitchen unfolded within one of the country’s most operationally sensitive environments, requiring constant coordination and tightly staged works.
Existing slabs were modified to support new drainage and high-load kitchen infrastructure, while full services upgrades were threaded through constrained spaces metres above an active carpark. Freight delays for specialist drains and an international refrigeration plant, along with mid-project design changes, were absorbed through phased delivery and flexible sequencing.
Sustainability outcomes were equally deliberate, with 84 per cent of more than 430 tonnes of waste recycled, reuse of service routes, and energy-efficient mechanical and refrigeration systems installed. The result is a highly efficient production facility delivered with precision under pressure. |
Project: DHL WarehouseEntrantMacrennie Commercial Construction Project PartnersDay Consultants Ltd (Structural Engineer), Macrennie Commercial Construction Limited (Construction Company), RDT Pacific (Project Manager), Rider Levett Bucknall Auckland Ltd (Quantity Surveyor), Williams Architects (Architect/Designer) Owned ByAuckland International Airport Limited
Purpose-built for pharmaceutical and medical storage, the DHL Healthcare Logistics Warehouse represents a significant expansion of DHL’s specialist operations in New Zealand. Designed to meet strict ISO, MPI, and Ministry of Health requirements, the facility integrates very narrow aisle racking and goods-to-person robotic systems to maximise storage capacity and streamline picking efficiency.
Delivery required close coordination between base build teams and specialist automation contractors, with major roof lifts and tightly sequenced fit-out works managed within a live programme. When industry-wide electrical safety procedures were strengthened, the team responded proactively to embed improved practices on site.
Completed within 20 months, including extensive upfront earthworks, and handed over on the original contractual date, the project stands as a high-performing, technically integrated healthcare logistics facility. |
Project: Wattyl Warehouse and Dangerous Goods StoreEntrantNZ Strong Group Limited Project PartnersNZ Strong Group Limited (Construction Company), RCP (Client Representative), Stantec (formely Cosgroves) (Electrical Engineer), Stiffe Hooker Limited (Architect/Designer/Structural Engineer), WTP NZ Limited (Quantity Surveyor) Owned ByStride Property
Set on a challenging peat-laden site with a high-water table, the Wattyl Warehouse project stands out for its smart engineering and environmental performance. Ground conditions required the installation of 2,604 for stabilisation and extensive subgrade preparation, ensuring long-term resilience of the structure.
A standout innovation was the sequencing of the steel portal frame prior to precast panel installation, eliminating the need for temporary propping and accelerating construction. The hybrid procurement model, combining Early Contractor Involvement with a Lump Sum contract, allowed NZ Strong to lead efficient planning, improve cost-effectiveness, and coordinate piling and slab work early in the process.
Awarded a Green Star 5 rating, the facility showcases sustainability, with solar energy generation, rainwater recycling, and timber waste repurposing. This project is a testament to how technical precision, collaboration, and sustainability can converge in industrial construction. |
Project: Mainfreight Beach RoadEntrantCalder Stewart Construction Limited Project PartnersBSW Architects Ltd (Architect/Designer), DMP Quantity Surveyors (Quantity Surveyor), Engenium (Structural Engineer), MPM Projects (Client Representative), Sitffe Hooker (Civil Engineer) Owned ByMainfreight Ltd
Mainfreight’s Beach Road development delivered a highly specialised Dangerous Goods facility within strict regulatory and site constraints. Late in the programme, the DG bunker design was fundamentally reworked. An imported fire-rated panel system was replaced with a reinforced concrete structure that improved constructability, strengthened fire performance, and delivered significant cost savings. Despite consenting delays, the bunker was completed in just nine weeks through tightly sequenced planning.
Poor ground conditions required extensive timber and screw piling, while contaminated material demanded controlled remediation. Severe weather and restricted access added further pressure, prompting the team to shift work fronts strategically to protect the overall programme.
Material reuse, crushed concrete recycling, rainwater harvesting, and a solar array support long-term efficiency, resulting in a resilient, compliant logistics facility. |
Project: Project KohiaEntrantFoster Construction Group Ltd Project PartnersFluid Engineering Consultancy (Engineer), Foster Construction Group Ltd (Construction Company/Quantity Surveyor), Gray Consulting Engineers Limited (Structural Engineer), Rebbeck Dunn Watters Limited (Project Manager), T Plus Architects Limited (Architect/Designer) Owned ByUPC Group
Project Kohia centres on an impressive 70-metre clear-span warehouse, delivered in under eight months on challenging ground. Soft subgrade conditions could have slowed progress, but the team developed a practical in-situ load compensation approach that kept the slab performing without major redesign or delay.
One of the defining moments came during installation of the steel roof, where three cranes operated at once within a tight footprint. The lifts were carefully sequenced with clear hold points, ensuring safety and steady progress. Early contractor involvement allowed key components to be refined before construction, reducing rework and protecting budget.
With 81 per cent of waste diverted and materials selected for durability and efficiency, the project was completed three months ahead of programme and under budget, setting a strong benchmark for large-scale industrial delivery. |
Project: IKEA Distribution CentreEntrantMacrennie Commercial Construction Limited Project PartnersDHC (Structural Engineer), Macrennie Commercial Construction Limited (Construction Company), RDT Pacific (Project Manager), Rider Levett Bucknall Auckland Ltd (Quantity Surveyor), Williams Architects (Architect/Designer) Owned ByAuckland International Airport Limited
The IKEA Distribution Centre forms a key part of the brand’s long-anticipated arrival in New Zealand. Comprising a 20,000m² warehouse with expansive clear spans and a distinctive office complex, the facility was delivered within 13 months, including earthworks and an integrated tenant fitout period. Handover was achieved one month ahead of the contractual completion date.
Geotechnical risks and multi-crane roof lifts required detailed planning to maintain safety and momentum across the busy site. Health and wellbeing initiatives supported the on-site workforce throughout delivery.
Sustainability outcomes include a 20% reduction in embodied carbon and more than 90% waste diversion. The completed development provides a flexible, high-performing distribution hub aligned with IKEA’s long-term operations in New Zealand. |
Project: Newlands Auto Electrical - RollestonEntrantCohesive Construction Project PartnersCohesive Construction Canterbury Limited (Architect/Designer/Construction Company), ENGCO (Engineer) Owned ByNewlands Auto Electrical - Rolleston
Newlands Auto Electrical, Rolleston sets a strong benchmark for values-driven industrial delivery under pressure. With a fixed lease expiry shaping the programme, the team faced early groundworks and supply chain delays that demanded fast, adaptive thinking. Trades were re-sequenced, communication tightened, and every subcontractor aligned behind a single goal: seamless, on-time transition for the client.
Delivered under a Design and Build model, early contractor involvement ensured buildability, cost control, and programme certainty from day one. The facility moves effortlessly from robust truck workshop spaces to refined offices and a polished showroom, unified through precise detailing and coordinated cladding systems.
More than a new premises, this project represents partnership in action: client, contractor, and consultants working with clarity, trust, and shared accountability to achieve a defect-free result. |
Project: Project Anvil, Burnham Maintenance Support FacilityEntrantLeighs Construction Ltd Project PartnersLeighs Construction Ltd (Construction Company), Resource Co-Ordination Partnership Ltd (Engineer) Owned ByNZDF – Consolidated Logistics Project
Project Anvil delivers one of the South Island’s largest NZDF maintenance and support facilities, purpose-built for modern Defence operations. Inside, the building brings together ISO 7 clean areas, shielded rooms to prevent electronic interference, sound-rated offices, and ventilated live-fire and vehicle testing bays, each operating to different safety standards. Coordinating seven separate air handling and extraction systems across fuel, battery, and weapons environments demanded careful planning from day one.
When contaminated ground was uncovered mid-build, the team quickly resequenced works and resolved the issue without delaying completion. Drawing on lessons from a similar NZDF facility at Linton, installation methods were refined to improve access and reduce risk.
Delivered within an active military base and completed ahead of programme with no serious incidents, Project Anvil sets a strong benchmark for complex Defence construction in Aotearoa. |
Project: J&D McLennan EngineeringEntrantCalder Stewart Construction Limited Project PartnersArchaus Architects (Architect/Designer), Calder Stewart Construction (Construction Company), J&D McLennan (Client Representative), Ortus International Ltd (Engineer) Owned ByJ&D McLennan
The new J&D McLennan facility in Upper Hutt represents a significant investment in the company’s long-term growth and regional presence. Delivered within a 12-month programme and completed 13 working days ahead of schedule, the build progressed alongside an evolving design that required close management of queries and changes without disrupting momentum.
Precision was critical across key structural elements, demanding careful coordination to maintain accuracy and quality. A substantial rooftop solar installation reduces operational energy demand, supporting more sustainable day-to-day performance.
Built with strong local trade involvement, the facility strengthens both the company’s manufacturing capability and its connection to the Upper Hutt community, providing a modern, efficient workplace designed for long-term use. |
Project: Truckstops & TWLEntrantCalder Stewart Construction Limited Project PartnersBlueprint Consulting Engineers (Structural Engineer), Calder Stewart Construction (Construction Company), Eclipse Architecture (Architect/Designer), Southpark Corporation Limited (Client Representative) Owned BySouthpark Corporation Limited
The Truckstops and TWL project involved the simultaneous construction of two industrial buildings on a single site, demanding precision coordination, resource sharing, and clear separation of workflows. A key technical feature was the construction of in-ground service pits designed for the safe servicing of dangerous goods vehicles, requiring specialist input and rigorous certification processes.
Despite design challenges and evolving scope, both buildings met their operational deadlines. Calder Stewart’s use of Procore streamlined communication across all parties, while daily trade huddles enhanced safety and boosted productivity. Although a build-only contract, the team identified value engineering opportunities, such as an insulated roof redesign, that delivered significant cost savings. This project is a testament to effective planning, technical excellence, and a collaborative site culture. |
Project: Ravenswood Auto WashEntrantCohesive Construction Project PartnersCassidy Davies (Electrical Engineer), Cohesive Construction Canterbury Limited (Architect/Designer/Construction Company), Powell Fenwick (Structural Engineer) Owned ByTunnelwash Group Ltd
Ravenswood Tunnel Wash came together fast on a compact site within a busy new precinct. Delivered in just five months, and three weeks ahead of schedule, the build ran alongside the installation of specialist wash equipment, with construction and commissioning carefully overlapped to save time. Cohesive’s early involvement meant plant layout, servicing, and sequencing were resolved before work ramped up, reducing rework and downtime.
Multiple trades worked within tight zones under active traffic conditions, demanding clear staging and constant coordination. Below ground, an advanced recycling system was installed to reclaim up to 80 per cent of water used, supporting efficient day-to-day operation.
Completed without lost-time injuries, the project shows how practical planning and close collaboration can deliver speed, performance, and sustainability in one streamlined facility. |
Project: Robotics PlusEntrantiLine Construction Project PartnersiLine Construction (Construction Company), Veros (Project Manager), Wingates (Architect/Designer) Owned ByEI Properties Ltd
Purpose-built for Robotics Plus, this facility brings warehouse, office, and specialist workspaces together in one tightly coordinated structure. Precast concrete and steel form the warehouse shell, while the office level above is framed in engineered timber, fully integrated into the overall build. Features such as seismic movement gaps, tight service interfaces, and a “building within a building” layout required careful alignment between designers, engineers, and site crews.
Early contractor involvement allowed iLine to refine the timber strategy and lock in sequencing from the outset. Limited access, multiple cranes, and significant work at height demanded disciplined staging and clear communication.
The use of glulam, LVL, and cross-laminated timber reduces carbon impact while creating a warmer working environment, delivering a high-performance base for advanced manufacturing and research. |
Project: Supply Chain SolutionsEntrantCohesive Construction Canterbury Project PartnersCassidy Davies (Electrical Engineer), Cohesive Construction Canterbury Limited (Architect/Designer/Construction Company), ENGCO (Engineer), ERS - Energy Recovery Systems (Electrical Engineer), Walker Architecture (Architect/Designer) Owned ByClassic Developments NZ Ltd
Supply Chain Solutions demonstrates disciplined delivery on a large-scale logistics build. Cohesive Construction Canterbury delivered the 8,000m² facility, including a 6,020m² warehouse and 335m² office, by breaking the project into three clearly defined stages. This allowed precast panels and structural steel to be installed in a controlled sequence on a tight site, while off-site fabrication reduced congestion and protected programme certainty.
What sets this project apart is the level of coordination behind the scenes. BIM was used to resolve clashes early and align consultants before construction, reducing rework and improving accuracy. Early contractor involvement meant buildability issues were addressed up front, supporting cost control and smooth delivery.
Completed two weeks ahead of schedule, on budget, with a 2% defect rate and zero lost-time injuries, the project reflects strong planning, clear communication, and consistent execution across the team. |
Project: Mainfreight HastingsEntrantDominion Constructors Ltd Project Partners DMP Quantity Surveyors (Quantity Surveyor), Electrical Consulting Services Ltd (Electrical Engineer), Engenium Ltd (Engineer), HSC 2022 Limited (Engineer), Initia Ltd (Civil Engineer), MPM Projects (Project Manager), Powell Fenwick Consultants Ltd (Engineer), Thurston Consulting Ltd (Mechanical Engineer), Woodhamn Meikle Zhan Architects Ltd (Architect/Designer) Owned ByMainfreight NZ Ltd
Developed on a four-hectare greenfield site, Mainfreight Hastings required Dominion Constructors to establish delivery networks in a new region while maintaining programme certainty. A negotiated procurement model enabled early collaboration and design refinement, aligning scope and budget from the outset.
Erection of the structural steel frame ahead of schedule unlocked downstream efficiencies, supporting practical completion one month early. Close coordination with local authorities and utility providers resulted in Code Compliance being issued on the same day as completion.
Rooftop solar, 75,000 litres of rainwater harvesting, advanced stormwater treatment, and a 6,000-plant native reserve developed alongside local iwi embed long-term environmental value. The completed facility reflects disciplined sequencing and strong regional collaboration. |
Project: Harvard Industrial DevelopmentEntrantFoster Construction BOP Ltd Project PartnersCM Consulting (Project Manager), Foster Construction BOP Ltd (Construction Company/Quantity Surveyor), Foster Construction Group Ltd (Quantity Surveyor), Kirk Roberts Consulting (Architect/Designer) Owned ByHarvard Investments
An eight-month industrial build delivered on a constrained, flood-prone site demanded disciplined planning and practical innovation. Limited access and wet weather during foundation works added early pressure, yet structured design management and early contractor involvement kept the programme on track and three weeks ahead of schedule.
Full-height rough-sawn precast concrete panels provide both structure and finish, removing the need for secondary cladding and reducing long-term maintenance. A redesigned 45-metre clear-span portal frame optimised steel use, while a custom L-bracket system supported precast lintels without traditional scaffold propping, improving safety and site access.
With 68% waste diverted and a Toitu Enviromark Diamond audit achieved with zero corrective actions, the project reflects efficient, accountable industrial delivery. |
Project: National Storage, Mt WellingtonEntrantDominion Constructors Limited Project PartnersBabbage Consultants (Civil Engineer/Seismic Engineer/Structural Engineer), Wingates (Architect/Designer) Owned ByNational Storage New Zealand Property Trust
On a tightly constrained Mt Wellington site, this multi-level storage facility required careful engineering from the ground up. Hard rock excavation repeatedly tested piling equipment, while contaminated soils and natural overland flow paths demanded a stepped foundation system transitioning from piled construction to slab-on-grade. The approach protected environmental performance and avoided on-site redesign.
Demolition was staged alongside boundary-sensitive works next to a retirement village, with early trade engagement ensuring detailed, buildable documentation before construction began. The project progressed through 26 council inspections without a single failure.
Supported by strong safety systems and a coordinated “one team” approach, the development reached completion six weeks ahead of schedule, delivering a durable and precisely executed industrial asset. |
Project: Lot 111 - Waiwarawara DriveEntrantOTC Projects Limited Project PartnersAirflow Engineering (Engineer), Formable (Engineer), Futura & Kirk Roberts Consulting (Structural Engineer), HK Architecture (Architect/Designer), Kamo Marsh Landscape Architects (Architect/Designer), OTC Projects (Construction Company), Soil & Rock Consultants (Engineer) Delivered without pre-committed tenants, this high-spec industrial facility demonstrates confident speculative development in Northland. Early contractor involvement enabled OTC to shape design, procurement, and cost planning from the outset, ensuring the build remained commercially viable while achieving a premium finish.
Eighty-eight percent of designers, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers were locally based, engaging 121 workers from 27 regional companies. Challenging ground conditions and limited services were addressed through detailed soil testing and three-waters modelling to reduce risk and maintain compliance.
Sustainability initiatives include 4,800m² of low-carbon Triboard manufactured from New Zealand plantation pine, strong on-site waste sorting, timber reuse across projects, and a 2,800m² rooftop solar array. The result is a refined, regionally delivered industrial asset designed for long-term performance. |