Central Interceptor recognised at CCNZ Construction Excellence Awards

The Central Interceptor has added another major industry accolade to its growing list of achievements, taking out Category 5, Projects with a Value Greater than $100 million, at the CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards on Friday evening.

Delivered as part of the Ghella Abergeldie Joint Venture (GAJV) for Watercare Services Limited, the Central Interceptor is New Zealand's largest wastewater infrastructure project, with a 16.2-kilometre interceptor tunnel running from the Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant to Point Erin in Herne Bay, reaching depths of up to 110 metres. Beyond the landmark tunnel, the project delivered major upgrades to Auckland's wastewater network, including 100 network sewer work packages, a new pump station and rising main system to support network integration and transfer to the Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant, as well as significant upgrades at the treatment plant itself. The award recognises the scale and impact of this project, which is improving the health of Auckland's waterways, strengthening the city's wastewater network and supporting growth for generations to come.

More than a major engineering achievement, the Central Interceptor is a significant investment in Auckland's future. Alongside the main tunnel works, the project delivered significant upgrades to the wider wastewater network while creating lasting environmental, social and community benefits. Workforce development, education initiatives and partnerships with mana whenua and local communities helped ensure the project's impact extended well beyond construction.

The award adds to a strong year of industry recognition for the project. Earlier this year, the Central Interceptor received the Best in Class Arthur Mead Award (Infrastructure) at the Engineering New Zealand Te Ao Rangahau Auckland Branch Awards and was named a finalist in both the Excellence in Environmental Outcomes Award and Excellence in Social Outcomes Award at the Infrastructure Sustainability Council Awards.

Abergeldie CEO Mark Bruzzone said, "It is incredibly rewarding to see the Central Interceptor recognised with another significant industry award. This award is testament to the expertise, dedication and collaboration of everyone involved. We are incredibly proud of the role we played in delivering this critical infrastructure project, which leaves a lasting legacy for Auckland and is a shining example of how our work helps to build better communities."

Image credit: Civil Contractors New Zealand