Innovation Award

This award recognises that transformation is happening in our sector and is awarded to the project that has taken an innovative approach and achieved a positive outcome. Innovation could be in the field of process, design, construction, materials or technology

H T M L Code
Innovation Award

Project: Air NZ Hangar 4

Entrant

NZ Strong Group Limited

Project Partners

Aecom (Civil Engineer/Electrical Engineer), Barnes Beagley Doherr (Quantity Surveyor), Dunning Thornton (Engineer), Holmes NZ LP (Structural Engineer), NZ Strong Group Limited (Construction Company), Studio Pacific Architecture (Architect/Designer), TSA Riley (Client Representative)

Owned By

Air New Zealand Limited

Spanning an extraordinary single timber structure, Air New Zealand’s Hangar 4 stands as the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere, setting a national record for timber construction at this scale. Delivered within a live airport environment, the build required meticulous coordination around operational constraints, strict safety protocols, and challenging wind conditions. Prefabricated timber arch sections, each weighing 38 tonnes and assembled in 25-metre portions, were lifted into place using the country’s largest crawler crane, elevated on stilts to execute one of the most complex lift operations undertaken in New Zealand. Custom bracketry and prefabrication simplified on-site assembly while improving safety outcomes. Underground service pits eliminate surface cabling, maintaining a clean, high-performance workspace capable of supporting aircraft loads. Hangar 4 combines structural ambition, sustainability leadership, and technical precision in a landmark aviation facility.

Judges comments

What made the Air New Zealand Hangar 4 project stand out was the spirit of innovation that ran through the entire build. The judges were especially impressed by the timber arch, from the originality of its design to the safe and efficient way it was constructed. This was a project that called for tailored thinking at every step, with solutions developed both in New Zealand and overseas. It also demanded very close collaboration between the client, consultants, builders, subcontractors, and international suppliers. The judges noted this was one of those rare projects that will stay with the people involved for years to come, not only because of what was achieved, but because of how it was achieved. The result is a project that sets a benchmark for innovation, teamwork, and sustainable design in New Zealand.