Project:Mt Wellington Winter Upgrade

Client:Auckland Council

SSDM was engaged by Auckland Council to design and Project Manager the upgrade of the Number Two field at Mt. Wellington War Memorial Reserve on the edge of the Panmure Basin.

The methodology used for the upgrade of this field was unique, being built essentially in a reverse order of a traditional upgrade in order to allow works to progress while resource and building consents were under application.  The existing turf surface was retained during the entire upgrade process with the existing surface initially levelled by localised application of 200 m³ of topsoil while encouraging the existing rye/kikuyu grass to grow thorough the topsoil. Following creating a suitable base, sand was incrementally topdressed onto the field to create a sand carpet.

SSDM recognised that an irrigation water supply upgrade was necessary in order to supply sufficient irrigation to the number two field. SSDM arranged for this water supply upgrade through Watercare which future proofs the site for upgrades/installation of irrigation systems in the other 5 fields at the Reserve.

Once all consents were granted, installation of the drainage and irrigation systems were started in April 2012. The build continued over the winter months and gravel bands were finally installed into the field in June 2012 followed by some additional sand topdressing, which completed the upgrade.