Kaikōura Earthquake Recovery Programme

The Kaikōura Earthquake Recovery Programme was an urgent response to the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake, which severely damaged State Highway 1 (SH1) and the Main North Line railway, cutting off access between Picton and Christchurch. Led by North Canterbury Transport Infrastructure Recovery (NCTIR), the project focused on reinstating transport networks, stabilizing landslides, and strengthening infrastructure to withstand future seismic events. The programme not only restored connectivity for residents and businesses but also improved long-term resilience and safety along the coastal corridor.

Project Involvement

• Seismic Resilience and Infrastructure Restoration – Provided engineering expertise in stabilizing slips, reconstructing damaged bridges, and reinforcing tunnels along SH1 and the rail corridor.

• Environmental and Coastal Protection Measures – Assisted in designing and implementing solutions to safeguard infrastructure from coastal erosion and future seismic risks.

• Integrated Delivery Coordination – Worked closely with contractors, local authorities, and stakeholders to align project milestones with community needs and environmental constraints.

• Contract and Commercial Oversight – Supported procurement, contract management, and financial control to ensure cost-effective project execution within funding parameters.

• Programme Risk and Safety Management – Identified potential project risks, developed mitigation strategies, and maintained a strong focus on safety throughout construction activities.