Client: Hamilton City Council

Location: Tauhara Park, Hamilton

Date: May 2025 – July 2025

 

CONTEXT

These works formed part of a wider programme to replace an existing pedestrian bridge and improve the stability, safety, and environmental resilience of the surrounding stream corridor within Tauhara Park. Works in this sensitive environment required careful planning and strict environmental controls.

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TREADING LIGHTLY

The works began with site establishment and the creation of safe access. Existing park tracks were upgraded to accommodate construction plant, and temporary access routes and crane pads were built to support bridge installation activities. When work was completed, all disturbed areas were reinstated to meet Hamilton City Council’s park and environmental standards.

 

SITE CLEARING

All clearing activities were completed in accordance with the approved Construction Management Plan (CMP), including erosion and sediment control requirements, and the protection of ecologically sensitive zones identified by the project ecologist,

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EARTHWORKS

Earthworks were carried out to prepare the site for bridge foundations and long-term stream protection. This included cut-to-waste excavation of unsuitable material and shaping of stream banks.. Most of the earthworks were completed using just one 20-tonne excavator, to minimise disturbance to the surrounding park environment.

 

STREAM PROTECTION

We completed significant in-stream works to protect stream bed and banks from scour and erosion. This included excavation of stream bed material and the installation of void-filled riprap rock armour to form rock chutes and rock riffles up and downstream of the bridge location. Work was sequenced to manage water flows, maintain stream stability.

 

COLLABORATIVE APPROACH

Throughout the project, we worked closely with Hamilton City Council, the design team, and specialist bridge contractors. Regular communication and site meetings ensured a seamless interface between in-stream works, bridge construction, and park access.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

This included erosion and sediment control measures,, stabilising disturbed areas, careful sequencing of in-stream works, and prompt reinstatement of exposed surfaces. All works were carried out with consideration for water quality, stream flows, and protection of adjacent vegetation and habitats.

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HEALTH AND SAFETY

Base Civil ensured appropriate controls were in place to separate the public from construction activities. Plant movements, temporary access routes, and lifting operations were carefully planned and managed to meet both Hamilton City Council requirements and industry best practice.

 

REINSTATEMENT

Upon completion of the construction works, Base Civil reinstated all affected areas within Tauhara Park. This included removal of temporary access tracks, reshaping of disturbed ground, topsoiling, grass seeding, and reinstatement of fences and park infrastructure.