ACE is the Association of Consulting and Engineering, representing around 270 businesses that employ around 16,000 engineers, project managers, planners, scientists, architects, surveyors and other technical disciplines across the built and natural environment.
An eye-catching new WSP-designed avalanche shelter at the entrance of Homer Tunnel picked up a Silver Award.
WSP provided consultancy services across scoping, design, consenting and procuring the shelter and nearby plant room.
The project’s engineering complexity and unique environmental, heritage, and seasonal constraints meant its success hinged on the use of accelerated construction techniques.
Construction involved careful demolition of the old shelter, followed by on-site assembly of 157 prefabricated concrete elements stitched together with concrete.
The shelter was constructed during the very tight period between avalanche seasons. Work was carried out by WSP, Downer, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and its Crown Infrastructure partners.
WSP head of bridges, maritime, and structures Jeremy Waldin says he's incredibly proud of the WSP Homer Tunnel team for its work on the avalanche shelter.
"Delivering a project of this scale and complexity - within a World Heritage site, under tight seasonal constraints, and in one of New Zealand’s most rugged environments - was no small feat. It’s a fine example of the first-class design innovation WSP brings to infrastructure challenges.
“From the use of pre-cast elements to the shelter’s ability to withstand extreme avalanche and rockfall forces, this project reflected the ingenuity, precision, and resilience that define WSP’s approach. This ACE award is a well-earned recognition of that excellence.”
WSP's work on the Ōrākei Main Sewer Response and Recovery project for Watercare also earned a Silver ACE Award last night.
Recognised for excellence in emergency infrastructure response and design, WSP delivered technical advice, design, and construction guidance following the 2023 collapse of one of Auckland’s most critical wastewater assets.
WSP client director for water Phil McFarlane says taking home a silver award is a proud moment for WSP's water team and a powerful recognition of the team’s technical excellence and innovative thinking.
"The Ōrākei Main Sewer response demanded urgency, precision, and deep expertise - and our people delivered. Designing permanent repairs in the wake of a major infrastructure failure, while working collaboratively with Watercare and our delivery partners March Cato and ACH Consulting Engineers, showcased the very best of WSP’s capability."
Congratulations to our award recipients.
See the full list of ACE winners here.