The addition of a cycleway to a 177 metre long bridge was the top project among 15 finalists at the SCNZ Excellence in Steel Awards
The winners of the 2021 Steel Construction New Zealand (SCNZ) Excellence in Steel Awards were announced on 3 June at the Hilton Auckland, after an earlier postponement due to Covid-19. Close to 270 structural steel industry leaders and specialists gathered to celebrate the best of the best at an event that showcases the sector’s commitment to innovation, best practice and collaboration.
Judges whittled 34 award entries down to 15 finalists, which demonstrate the exceptional design and execution possible when steel is used as the principal construction material.
SCNZ chair Frank Van Schaijik says the high standard of projects on show at the 2021 awards reflects the experience, skills and commitment of the sector.
“It’s what sets our local structural steel industry apart from the rest of the world, which is critical in a Covid-impacted environment when local expertise are in high demand.”
Winners
- Supreme Winner and $1.5M-$3M category winner: Eastbridge & Beca for SH2 Wairoa River Bridge Cycleway Widening
The existing, 177m-long bridge was too narrow for cyclists or pedestrians to safely cross. Neither its deck nor the pier columns offered adequate spare capacity to retrofit a cycleway at deck level. Lightweight modular steel construction was the solution to adding a cycleway to the existing bridge in a safe and innovative manner.
- Under $500K category: D&H Steel Construction for Waiouru Point Development
The project includes two adjoining warehouses that overlook the Tamaki River and its striking design was inspired by the local estuary birdlife. The project demonstrates steel’s versatility as an architectural feature, particularly the complex ‘Y frames’, which deliver a flawless finish.
- $500K-$1.5M: VIP Structural Steel for Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement
Before reinstatement of the iconic Christ Church Cathedral could begin it had to be stabilised, so a prominent structural steel frame was designed and fabricated to restore key structural load paths at the western end of the building. Impressively, it was lowered into position and secured to the building in the space of a single day.
- Over $3M: D&H Steel Construction for Sylvia Park Galleria
Sylvia Park’s $277m, 20,000sqm south mall expansion involved retrofitting a new upper-level floor to the shopping mall. Steel provided practical solutions to complex details related to geometry, connections and accessibility. Its light weight also meant the project was commercially viable.
- Standalone Residential: All Steel Services for Gawor Beach House, Coromandel
The stunning home boasts a completely exposed steel structure, cruciform columns and a massive eight-metre cantilevered second lounge. The matt black cruciform columns support three apex portals that align to frame breath-taking views of the Coromandel ranges and Matarangi harbour.
