One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha opens on time and on budget

Proving what disciplined project delivery can achieve, BESIX Watpac has completed construction of Christchurch City Council’s new One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha on time and on budget.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Friday 27 March as BESIX Watpac Chief Executive Officer Mark Baker joined New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger, Crusaders legend Dan Carter and representatives from Christchurch City Council. With construction now wrapped up, this represents the completion of the final anchor project in the revival of Christchurch following the 2011 earthquakes. 

Baker said this milestone is a testament to the team’s capability and its partnership with Christchurch City Council.

“The team achieved some extraordinary feats on this project, the pinnacle of which was delivering a major infrastructure project on time and on budget. Working side by side with Christchurch City Council, we’ve delivered a legacy venue that is deeply important to the region,” Baker said.

“From day one, the project was driven by genuine collaboration and a relentless focus on delivering efficiently, to an exceptional standard, and with an impeccable safety record. Keeping the programme on track throughout – and reaching the finish line with certainty – shows what disciplined delivery and a unified team can achieve.” 

Strong local outcomes – a key priority for the company and the Council – included 92% of the workforce being from the South Island and 77% of engaged businesses also locally operated. This depth of local involvement has created lasting economic benefits for the region and supported meaningful skills development across the South Island’s construction sector.

Baker added: “It has been a privilege to be welcomed into the Christchurch community and being entrusted with a project that means so much to this city is an honour.

“The completion of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha opens the door to new opportunities, and we’re excited to continue contributing to the region’s growth. 

“I can’t wait to see the Super Rugby Super Round on the Anzac weekend and watch the stadium come alive.”

Project Fast Facts

• 2,393,235 hours worked
• 0 Lost Time Injuries
• 77% of businesses engaged locally.
• 92% of workers from New Zealand’s South Island
• More than 90 apprentices and cadets engaged