The $6.2 m National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)-funded repair of Westport Harbour’s Holcim No. 2 and Kawatiri wharves was recognised for its excellence, innovation, and collaboration at the Canterbury-Westland Civil Contractors of New Zealand awards, held at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre on Friday night.

The wharf repairs were part of the wider $17.1 m NEMA-funded critical infrastructure repair programme implemented after the July 2021 and February 2022 Buller flood events.

Completed by contractor HEB Construction ahead of schedule and within budget, the project was one of just six to make it to the final of ‘Category E’ - projects in the $5 m to $10 m range.

While the project was pipped for overall category winner, it took out the overall health and safety award from a field of thirty-four finalists and helped HEB Construction to the overall ‘Contractor of the Year’ award.

Chief Executive Officer Simon Pickford says: “It is fantastic to have this project recognised for its excellence and innovation. It confirms the significance of the repairs in terms of strengthening Buller’s future flood preparedness and safeguarding our infrastructure, and recognises the skills, expertise and quality workmanship demonstrated by our contractors HEB Construction.”

Emergency Management and Recovery Minister, Hon Mark Mitchell, and senior National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) officials visited Westport in May to officially reopen the wharves.

“The Westport Wharf Repair project is an example of what’s possible when community and collaboration are at the heart of every decision. Working closely with Buller District Council and our local partners, we listened, learned, and delivered together, restoring vital infrastructure, and strengthening resilience in Westport” says Scott Valalley, HEB Construction’s Area Manager – Structures Wellington South.

He concludes: “This project was more than construction - it was about partnering with local businesses, suppliers, and communities, creating opportunities, and building lasting relationships. We’re grateful for the trust placed in us and proud to have worked side by side with Buller District Council and the Westport community to achieve something special for the region.”

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