Northland Rail Upgrade

The aim of this project was to better connect Northland to the national rail network and stimulate the regional economy. Catch up renewals were required, and tunnels and bridges needed to be upgraded to achieve modern standards and accommodate high cube container wagons. Due to funding from the Provincial Growth Fund, this project had an accelerated delivery programme to reduce the length of time that the line needed to be closed.

Vitruvius used laser scanning to survey 13 tunnels and six bridges. Spatial assessments were undertaken to determine the scope of civil works required to meet the demands of high cube container wagons.  

We then undertook the detailed design for six tunnels and five bridges and worked with engineering partners to deliver the models for track alignment, design and drainage.

We provided track construction technical services for set out, and constructability advice, working alongside KiwiRail and the contractors.

Following construction, we completed as-built surveys and post-construction spatial assessments as part of the verification process to ensure clearance requirements were achieved. 

The line was upgraded to a safe and modern standard that can accommodate high cube containers, and the line was re-opened in January 2021. 

Vitruvius was engaged based on our extensive track knowledge, enabling us to deliver value across the many phases of this project and meet the client’s objectives.