The West Coast of New Zealand is renowned for its wild weather, rugged landscapes, and remote communities. Keeping its roads open and safe is no small feat. Since 2015, Fulton Hogan has led the West Coast Network Outcomes Contract (NOC) for Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, overseeing the maintenance, operation, and renewal of 886 kilometres of both urban and rural roads. As the contract approaches its completion in August 2024, it stands out as a national exemplar for performance, innovation, and partnership.

From the outset, the West Coast NOC was designed to deliver more than just routine maintenance. The contract’s objectives were ambitious: to keep the network safe, reliable, and resilient for all users, to support freight and connect communities, and to drive continuous improvement in safety, sustainability, and value. Over its nine-year term, the contract’s value has grown reflecting the scale and complexity of the work required in one of the country’s most challenging environments.

The results speak for themselves. The West Coast NOC has consistently achieved “Outstanding” ratings in Waka Kotahi’s national performance framework, with a score of 3.69 in 2019/20 and steady improvement year on year. This success is built on robust asset management, the use of advanced tools like RAMM, Juno, and Archimedes®, and a culture of innovation. The contract has pioneered 21 accepted innovations, including the TTM Risk Assessment Calculator and the Influencing Road Safety Workshop, which have since been shared with other regions.

Collaboration has been a hallmark of the West Coast NOC. By co-locating key Waka Kotahi staff in Greymouth, Fulton Hogan fostered a highly integrated approach to decision-making. This partnership proved invaluable during major events, such as ex-tropical cyclones Fehi and Gita, and the rapid replacement of the Waiho River Bridge at Franz Josef—a project that won the IPWEA Best Public Works Project under $5M. The team’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies has ensured that the network remains open and safe, even in the face of severe weather and natural disasters.

Quality and compliance have been unwavering throughout the contract. The West Coast NOC boasts a flawless record, with no OPM (Operational Performance Measure) deductions and 100% achievement of programme targets for four consecutive years. Construction quality is evidenced by minimal liability for non-compliance and full adherence to environmental consent conditions, even in sensitive areas like national parks. The use of technology, such as drones for archaeological surveys, has further enhanced environmental outcomes and protected sites of historical significance.

A key strength of the contract has been its support for local partners. Fulton Hogan has integrated subcontractors such as Westroads and WestReef Services into its management systems, providing training and development opportunities that have lifted standards across the board. This collaborative model has proven effective in upskilling third-tier contractors and delivering consistent, high-quality results.

Despite the challenges posed by the West Coast’s environment, the contract has delivered 100% of its programme on time and within budget, even when faced with reduced funding or emergency events. The team’s adaptability and commitment have been central to its ongoing success.

As the West Coast NOC nears its conclusion, it is widely recognised by Waka Kotahi, local communities, and industry bodies as a model for network stewardship, resilience, and partnership. The lessons learned and innovations developed here are now being shared across New Zealand, ensuring that the legacy of the West Coast NOC will continue to benefit the country’s transport sector for years to come.