Project challenges included: addressing legislation and best practice developments since the original consents were issued in 2014 (such as the National Environmental Standards for Freshwater, and biodiversity offsetting); meeting the new project scope (two-lane road with a cycle path); and meeting submission deadlines under the consents.

We brought our 20+ year history with the project, extensive knowledge of major road projects, experience with multidisciplinary collaboration and cultural engagement and technical expertise in ecology and landscape to help Waka Kotahi navigate the preliminary stages of the project, meet their consent requirements and timeframe and provide the foundation for an outstanding project outcome.

Freshwater and marine sites were sampled on multiple occasions and a preconstruction state of the environment report prepared. Wetlands were evaluated and assessed against recent legislation requirements. Threatened fauna surveys were undertaken including bats, lizards and birds.

Boffa Miskell provided high-resolution drone surveys for the site and used this technology to map vegetation. We engaged Biosense Limited to undertake a kauri dieback pathogen survey to inform disease management during construction, including vehicle movement and hygiene and the storage and use of topsoil.

We worked closely with manawhenua to develop a Cultural and Environmental Design Framework. Our experts advised on the reference design, minimum requirements, and tender evaluation for selection of the construction Alliance.

The project involved consultation with engineers from GHD, subject matter experts from Waka Kothi, and with the Iwi Liaison Group. The pre-construction consent requirements were delivered, the preferred design selected and O Mahurangi appointed as the construction Alliance.

Boffa Miskell assisted with the establishment of the construction phase and remains a project advisor to Waka Kotahi.