This project consisted of the construction of a new 2 storey 3,198 m2 engineering building (Block J) for the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic.

The building structure consists of a typical concrete slab on grade with 600 diameter concrete piles to various soft areas.

There are structural steel portal frames at 6 m centres supporting pre-cast concrete double T’s and full height pre-cast panel walls.

Internally the building features a large 2-level void area over the fabrication work area, a hydraulic lift, extensive mechanical and electrical services to the workshop areas and a separate entry. There are also laboratories and office space for a building tenant, Tida Research and Development.

Level 2 internally was only partially fitted out with classroom space and the remainder left for future development.

Externally the building is predominantly painted precast panelling with some feature “front of house” upgraded finishes.

J Block has been designed and built with a future Stage 2 in mind. Provisions for building services and structural interface for the next stage have been accounted for.