Citycare Property recently completed a significant upgrade at Christchurch City Council's Pioneer Recreation and Sports Centre—a fast paced, high-impact project valued at $3.7 million. Under the leadership of Senior Project Manager Shane Wildermoth and Senior Site Manager Glenn Edwards, the complex initiative delivered a wide range of improvements within a tight timeframe, limited budget, and all while the site was still open to the public.
A standout feature of the project was the installation of a new heat source recovery system to replace the existing diesel heating. Spearheaded by mechanical lead Deny Sutjiadi, this in-house solution significantly improved the facility's environmental footprint. The system draws water from a well at the southern end of the site, transfers heat via a heat exchanger and reinjects the water into a northern wall—spanning over 300 metres. This required trenching along with the eastern boundary of Pioneer Stadium, through the carpark, and navigating existing services before reinstating the area with new asphalt surfacing.
This section of work was particularly challenging due to contaminated ground. The team managed this with great care—covering and testing stockpiles for heavy metals prior to approved disposal at Kate Valley and Burwood landfills.
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Beyond the mechanical upgrades, the project involved extensive construction and refurbishment. Key improvements included:
- Demolition and reconstruction of a 10-cubicle toilet block with two accessible toilets
- A new accessible bathroom with hoist and change table
- Refurbishment of the Group Fit room and gymnasium, including the removal of internal stairs
- Installation of new aluminium windows in the pool and fitness areas, and fire-rated windows in the weights room
- Grinding and resurfacing of the main pool and Learn to Swim pool with new non-slip coatings
- Fresh paint and new protective wall cladding in changing rooms
- Upgrades to staff areas and back-of-house facilities for improved functionality
The project began in December 2024 and was completed by early March, with key work scheduled over the holiday period when pool usage is typically lower, minimising disruption to the public.
Shane and Glenn credit the success of the project to open communication with the Council, weekly site meetings, the use of Procore for project correspondence and documentation, and the dedication of the wider team.
And the momentum continues—future work is already being scoped, including an office renovation and additional maintenance projects. The team is proud of the outcome so far and excited about what's next.
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