The first siphon constructed in Auckland and the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
McConnell Dowell is proud to announce the successful completion of the Ports of Auckland Outfall Upgrade project for Auckland Council Healthy Waters, delivered on time on November 1, 2024, with a positive safety record and within budget.
From the outset, McConnell Dowell in collaboration with designer GHD, played a key role in the concept design and optioneering phase, which involved:
- Engaging with key stakeholders, including Auckland Transport, Auckland Council, KiwiRail, Port of Auckland Limited (POAL), bus company, local businesses, and residents.
- Analysing multiple design options.
- Researching historical data on the original construction of the port.
- Proposing a final solution that would meet the client's needs.
This final solution selected by the client, a trenchless inverted siphon (U-shaped pipe), developed by McConnell Dowell and GHD which addressed the client’s primary objectives.
This solution enabled the installation of a 3-meter diameter, 270-meter long stormwater pipeline at a maximum depth of 20 meters with a 0.5% slope.
Despite challenges such as working below sea level, tight spaces, adverse weather, and unexpected events, the team fostered strong collaboration from the project’s inception. This collaboration between all parties—Auckland Council Healthy Waters, designers GHD, Port of Auckland Limited, and other stakeholders—enabled the team to overcome these challenges and ensure smooth progress.
For more information about the project, check it out here https://www.mcconnelldowell.com/projects/ports-of-auckland-outfall
“This project is a testament to McConnell Dowell's commitment to innovation, safety, and excellence in infrastructure development, and we are proud to have contributed to enhancing the resilience of the city for future generations,” says Fraser Wyllie, McConnell Dowell Managing Director New Zealand & Pacific.
