Fulton Hogan has successfully completed the resurfacing of Candy’s Creek Bridge on SH73, a critical alpine route through Otira Gorge, delivering the project ahead of schedule and under challenging conditions.

Undertaken as part of the West Coast Network Outcomes Contract (NOC) with NZTA Waka Kotahi, the project ran from 5th to 14th December 2023. It involved resurfacing the road and bridge deck using echelon paving techniques and under time critical delivery windows.

Engineering Excellence in an Alpine Environment.

The project team faced steep gradients of up to 16%, narrow road widths, and unpredictable weather. To overcome these challenges, Fulton Hogan conducted simulated trials at its Miners Road Asphalt Plant, testing paving methods and equipment configurations to ensure quality and safety.

A temporary structural repair was executed within 36 hours after discovering holes in the hollow core bridge deck beneath the asphalt surface. The team collaborated with WSP engineers to install a steel plate infilled with specialised concrete, ensuring the bridge remained safe and operational.

Stakeholder Engagement and Traffic Management.

Early engagement with stakeholders—including NZTA, transport providers, iwi, tourism operators, and local businesses—was key to the project’s success. Fulton Hogan developed a risk register and methodology two years prior to construction, incorporating feedback into the final delivery plan.

A full road closure was implemented during daytime hours to maximise productivity and minimise disruption. The team maintained constant communication via NZTA’s website, radio, and social media, ensuring the public was well-informed throughout the works.

Environmental and Safety Leadership.

Environmental controls were rigorously applied, including dust suppression, noise and vibration monitoring, and erosion management. Daily audits ensured compliance with all resource consent conditions.

Health and safety protocols were led by Matt Ashton, with daily pre-starts, inductions, and a dedicated rock spotter assigned to each shift. Emergency procedures were clearly communicated, and exclusion zones were enforced to protect workers from alpine hazards.

Delivering Value and Quality.

Fulton Hogan’s commitment to quality was evident through its use of ISO 9001-aligned systems, including Inspection Test Plans and continuous improvement processes. Asphalt

was manufactured at our Miners Road Asphalt Plant and transported under strict controls to the alpine located site. The project was delivered without any serious harm incidents, WorkSafe notices, or environmental non-compliances.

This successful delivery reinforces Fulton Hogan’s capability in executing complex infrastructure projects in remote and high-risk environments, ensuring safe and resilient transport links for New Zealand’s communities.