The Avon River Precinct (ARP) Project — ‘Watermark’ — was the first Anchor Project to be developed for the Christchurch Rebuild. This project was intended to demonstrate the options and possibilities for the development of the entire ARP Project to the people of Christchurch. Encompassing various workstreams, ‘Watermark’ is an excellent example of Citycare Property’s ability to manage multidisciplinary construction projects. The project included:
- In-river construction
- Excavation and site works
- Underground services
- Retaining wall construction
- Hard and soft Landscaping: installation of street furniture, construction of boardwalks, paving and planting
- Street and decorative lighting
A project with a high profile
Due to the location of the site within one of Christchurch’s best tourist attractions, the final product needed to be of a very high standard. Citycare Property also needed to consider the construction methods utilised due to the site's close proximity to Christchurch Public Hospital.
Cultural & historical significance
The Avon River (Ōtākaro) holds great significance for Ngāi Tahu, having been their commercial vein, transport route, source of mahinga kai, (food gathering) and the place by which they lived and traded. Citycare Property took pride in showing respect towards Ōtākaro, ensuring we achieved the desired outcomes of this project for all stakeholders, whilst at the same time protecting this culturally significant landmark.
This was demonstrated through feedback given by ECAN, stating that “the work has been completed with minimal environmental impact, partly due the contractor’s experience and appropriate and site-specific use of erosion and sediment control measures.” As part of the project, Citycare Property also worked closely with the onsite New Zealand Historic Places Trust-approved archaeologist.
Environmental needs met through innovation
As in-river works were required, Citycare Property was able to use our AquaDam — a highly innovative and environmentally-effective alternative for controlling the flow of water. This piece of equipment allowed Citycare Property to undertake the in-river works without the need to construct any type of earthen barrier (usually done by digging or trenching) which can cause long-term situational damage to the water environment.