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Napier War Memorial Conference Centre

Napier’s only purpose built conference and events facility.

Standing Proud on Marine Parade

Gemco were privileged to be able to undertake the renovation and extension of the Napier War Memorial Conference Centre for Napier City Council. An extensive amount of works went into creating Hawke’s Bay’s only purpose built conference and events facility.

A challenging project from day one, Gemco pooled together a top team and overcame complex construction methods using ‘old knowledge’ and modern technology.

The Construction Manager Experience

This project had tight time constraints and a mix of challenging build methods identified from the very outset.

The project encompassed demolition to parts of the existing building, two new extensions (the circular ball room and new exhibition hall), earthquake strengthening throughout, and renovations to the remainder of the existing building which required extensive planning.

One of the bigger challenges proved to be the weather. Having the build through winter and with strong easterlies blowing the sea spray towards the open building meant protecting the existing interior of the building became a priority.

Everyone’s knowledge and skills were needed to complete this project due to the types of construction used.  It was a great challenge, and one that was tackled head on by all involved.

History Uncovered

The construction of the exhibition hall foundations uncovered the original council paddling pools which were part of the original complex dating back to 1908.

Gemco also uncovered part of the Napier sea wall which was built in 1887. The sea wall had a base thickness of 2 meters and was concave in shape to a top width of 1 meter; this wall had to be cut through without disturbing the Ocean Spa foundations right next to it.

This project encompassed everything Gemco is proud of

Chris Olsen, Construction Manager, Gemco