Rest home rebuild on track
The contractor managing the $15m reconstruction of CHT Acacia Park in Ōmokoroa says the build is on time and on budget, heading into its third phase. Demolition specialists stepped in last month to reclaim and recycle what could be reused from the old block closest to Hamurana Road before an excavator reduced the remainder to rubble to make way for another new structure.
Watts and Hughes project manager Nick Neben says building around a functioning rest home and hospital has proven a unique logistical challenge, as Acacia Park has remained open since the ground-up reconstruction began in March 2019.
“We handed over Stage Two a week early, giving the staff a few extra days to arrange the furniture and beds for residents. April the 9th is our target for the new kitchen, administration and entrance building. With civil works at the front, the ground will be 600mm lower to allow for a more gradual slope to the front entry,” says Nick.
The fourth and final phase into mid-May will involve demolishing the old kitchen block to the rear and landscaping.
“Phase Three is a small but grand stage of the development. Since the Covid lockdown, we have clawed back some lost time thanks to both solid project management and good fortune with the weather. We had no significant delays through winter, and we’ve also benefitted from a good working relationship with the client,” Nick says.
Unit manager Megan Thorne says it provides a sense of home for residents to have a modern, top quality place to live - and it will be perfect for visiting family and friends.
The complex is growing from 48 to 60 beds, comprising six suites of 10 bedrooms each with lounge, dining and kitchenette areas.