Wakapuaka to Founders 33kV Power Cable Install

The Wakapuaka to Founders 33kV power cable install involved laying 5800m of ducts (1x 150mm, 3x 100mm, and 1x 50mm) between the Founders and Wakapuaka Power Substations along State Highway 6. Donaldson Civil was the lead civil contractor on site, engaging other specialist subcontractors to assist with the delivery of the project.
The project included 3000m of directional drilling and 2800m of open trenching, meeting NZTA’s 1.5m minimum cover requirement. Complex traffic management ensured minimal disruption at busy intersections, and residents were kept informed through clear communication to minimise access issues.
Ground conditions in coastal and reclaimed land presented significant challenges, including the discovery of sea walls that clashed with the intended alignment. These were managed through quick client collaboration to agree on revised methods and alignments.
Environmental risks, such as protecting stormwater inlets, were mitigated effectively, and custom solutions addressed broken culverts and drill fluid ingress.
Quality assurance testing confirmed high standards throughout, with independent CCTV inspections revealing no defects in contractor-supplied ducting.
Proactive planning and collaboration ensured this critical project was completed efficiently and safely along a busy transport corridor.



