EXTENDING FIBRE NETWORK -CHRISTCHURCH AND KAIPOI

Client : Civtec/Enable

Location : Waimakiri district

Service : Extending the Fibre network to include semi-rural areas outside of Christchurch and Kaipoi.

Date : November 2023

Date completion : September/October 2024

Challenges

As with most large-scale projects, we face multiple challenges during the execution of our work.

The first challenge in this area is the varying ground conditions. Some conditions will be suitable for one machine and methodology, but not another. Proximity to the Waimakariri River results in large areas of river run, characterized by loose, rocky soil unsuitable for drilling. In these areas, we utilize our TRS400 rock trencher, which is specifically designed for hard ground conditions.

In other areas, the ground conditions consist of silt and clay, which quickly turn to mud when excavated in winter. Here, we employ our directional drill machines, which are not only efficient in soft ground but also much cleaner compared to open trenching.

Traffic management presents another challenge in this area. Our final project phase involves laying fiber ducting along State Highway 1, the primary route north out of Christchurch. To address this, our in-house traffic management team sets up and oversees the worksite, ensuring the safety of both our team and the public.

Result

By utilizing various installation methods—rock saw trencher, directional drilling, and conventional trenching—we can ensure the project's timely and budget-friendly completion.

Our client, Civtec, has been thoroughly impressed by our team’s dedication to maintaining high standards and has expressed interest in future collaborations.

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