The only way is up for Oaks

After a difficult start during the groundwork phase, construction of the Oaks retirement development is back on track, according to project manager Dave Stott.

“It’s good to be above the ground,” he says.

Work started on the two apartment blocks in the first stage of the development two years ago and they are expected to be finished in April next year.

The lead contractor is the NZ owned company Kalmar, which has been involved with projects such as Shed 10 on Queens Wharf, Hobsonville Point Barracks and the student amenities centre at Massey University in Albany.

Dave said that the major challenge in the build so far had been dealing with a stream that ran underneath the site. However, in January water levels dropped more than expected.

“We think the water may be hitting a pile wall at the south end of the building and going around the site, but we aren’t sure.

“While this is good for construction, it means all surrounding buildings must be closely monitored to ensure the water isn’t affecting them, which is one of the conditions of the resource consents.”

The concrete slab for the building is almost complete and the walls up to level one have been erected. Steel framing is going up and excavation work will start this month to create the underground carpark.

In around three months, the building’s superstructure will be finished including roofing and precast wall panels.

“From there, things will progress very quickly,” Dave says.

The route for the stormwater line is still being discussed with Auckland Council, but it is likely to run down Neville Street. Dave says the alternative route along Queen Street would be more difficult because it would involve navigating around other utilities.