Westhaven Promenade

RCP provided Engineer to the Contract and project management services for Westhaven Promenade Stage 2, a continuous 382-yard long and 16-foot wide boardwalk that stretches from the Sails Restaurant building to St Mary's Bay beach.

It's a key section of the Auckland waterfront revitalisation plan which connects the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the Viaduct Harbour precinct.

The project aimed to resolve several issues, including failing stormwater infrastructure along Westhaven Drive, impending seawall repairs, overloaded pedestrian and car parking infrastructure, and improved water quality in St Mary's Bay.

Various stakeholders, including berth holders, pedestrians, cyclists, marina tenants, and even marine life such as Owha, the resident leopard seal, were engaged and considered. Strong working relationships were established with the Westhaven community,  including the marina team, local tenants, berth holders and mana whenua, who provided cultural guidance and advice to the project.

The design incorporated several environmentally sustainable features and materials. Water quality considerations led to the installation of six new rain gardens in the car park to accommodate and protect existing native trees, along with three new stormwater360 chambers and associated drainage upgrades.

The seaside portion of the project included the construction of a precast 350m concrete boardwalk with timber decking, steel balustrades, and tensioned wiring. Additionally, rock armour revetment was upgraded along the coastline sections and approximately 1,200m³ of sandstone dredging product was carefully managed. Surplus materials from Stage 1, such as timber rails, decking, and existing gangways, were reused where practical.

The project received recognition for its excellence in construction quality, engineering, client satisfaction, safety standards, and a strong people-development culture. It delivered a sophisticated waterfront experience and was honoured at the 2020/21 Hynds CCNZ Construction Awards.