The successful completion of the Western Belfast Bypass (WBB) marks a major milestone in New Zealand’s Roads of National Significance programme. Delivered by Fulton Hogan in partnership with Geoff Griffiths and the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, the $122 million project has transformed connectivity in northern Christchurch, providing a direct link between the Christchurch Northern Motorway and Johns Road.

Engineering Excellence and Environmental Stewardship.

The project’s scope included:

• Construction of three bridge structures and retaining walls.
• 611,000m³ of earthworks.
• 130,000m² of foamed bitumen stabilisation.
• 120,000 tonnes of asphalt.
• Epoxy modified OGPA, SMA, dense asphalt, and chip sealing.

Innovative pavement design reduced construction time from 20 days to just two, with night-time staging to minimise traffic disruption. Environmental compliance was a standout success, with 100% adherence to noise, dust, vibration, and sediment controls. The team worked closely with Environment Canterbury, proactively managing dewatering risks and protecting sensitive waterways like the Otukaikino River and wetlands.

A Model for Risk, Safety, and Stakeholder Engagement.

Fulton Hogan’s approach to risk management was pragmatic and inclusive. A project charter—developed voluntarily—guided decision-making and was reviewed monthly. Co-location of the MSQA designer enabled real-time issue resolution, while health and safety was championed daily by site leadership, fostering a culture of care and accountability.

Traffic management was equally proactive, ensuring uninterrupted access for 20,000 daily motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. The team’s commitment to stakeholder engagement extended to regulators, with open dialogue and joint site visits helping to align environmental expectations and outcomes.

Building on Local Knowledge and Legacy.

The WBB project was delivered in full compliance with Christchurch City Council specifications and benefitted from Fulton Hogan’s longstanding involvement in the Council’s Environmental Working Group. Lessons learned from the SCIRT rebuild programme were applied, including tools now used industry-wide.

Subcontractors such as Taylors Contracting Co Ltd, Natural Habitat, and Connetics played key roles, all engaged under Fulton Hogan’s national prequalification standards.