Client: Lyttelton Port Company (LPC)

Scope of Works:

At Fulton Hogan, we thrive on delivering complex infrastructure projects that blend innovation, heritage protection, and community value. Our recent work at the Lyttelton Port Company’s (LPC) historic Dry Dock is a testament to this commitment.
Preserving History, Powering the Future
The Lyttelton Dry Dock, constructed in 1882, is a Category 1 heritage-listed structure and a vital asset for New Zealand’s maritime industry. Our team was entrusted with upgrading the dock’s electrical and lighting systems—essential improvements to support modern shipping needs while respecting the site’s unique legacy.

Project Highlights

Scope and Challenges

• Upgraded shore power and perimeter lighting to enhance reliability and safety for docked vessels.
• Delivered extensive civil works, including trenching, ducting, pavement reconstruction, and new light pole foundations.
• Navigated a tight schedule, with much of the work completed during a planned one-month dock closure—critical for a facility with a multi-year booking waitlist.
• Managed complex risks: unknown underground services, contaminated land, and the discovery of archaeological treasures, all within a live operational port.
Innovation and Collaboration
• Developed agile work methodologies, enabling multiple crews to operate simultaneously and adapt to daily changes.
• Facilitated “last planner” sessions, bringing together all stakeholders to align on goals and compress the program.
• Introduced tailored solutions for heritage protection, including manual excavation and real-time archaeological supervision.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Maintained daily communication with LPC, contractors, and dock users, ensuring transparency and swift issue resolution.
• Fostered a collaborative culture, with client feedback highlighting our adaptability, professionalism, and focus on “best for project” outcomes.
Safety and Environmental Stewardship
• Achieved zero lost time or medical treatment injuries across thousands of work hours.
• Implemented robust environmental controls for contaminated material handling and heritage protection.
• Delivered the project with full compliance to all safety, quality, and environmental standards.

The Result

The Dry Dock Electrical Upgrade was completed on time, with all additional works delivered within the original schedule. The project not only enhanced the dock’s operational capacity but also preserved its historical significance for future generations. Both LPC and Connetics praised our team’s performance, noting our proactive communication, flexibility, and unwavering commitment to safety and quality.

Why It Matters

This project exemplifies Fulton Hogan’s ability to deliver high-stakes infrastructure upgrades in sensitive, operational environments. Our approach—combining technical excellence, stakeholder partnership, and respect for heritage—ensures that iconic sites like the Lyttelton Dry Dock continue to serve their communities for decades to come.