• PROJECT Novotel Hotel Christchurch
  • LOCATION South Island
  • SECTOR Tourism + Leisure
  • Client Host Hotels and Resorts
  • Duration Sep 2011 - Jun 2013
  • Value $17 million
Whilst the original construction of the Novotel Hotel was completed in 2009, the building sustained substantial damage in the Canterbury Earthquakes. Hawkins were engaged to scope the damage and remediate the building.

Hawkins provided a budget estimate once the main elements had been scoped; this was accurately reflected in the final project value. The works were carried out under a cost-recovery open book basis.

Intrusive investigation was carried out on two external shear walls. This included elongation tests to confirm the remaining capacity of the reinforcing bars which were stressed in the earthquakes. Full ‘pen-butt’ weld replacement was carried out on any impaired reinforcing and then the concrete structure was reinstated.

Each of the 121 precast panels were removed and replaced with improved seismic capacity. Some floors were cut back to introduce steel beams where additional support was required to install the alternative precast panels. New seismic joints and connection details were included throughout the repair process. Remaining damage to concrete floors were repaired with crack injection and all windows in the building were replaced.

Parts of the building had previously been covered by neighbouring structures, these areas were aesthetically repaired and waterproofed. An entrance to the South of the building through the old Warners Hotel was filled in after the hotel was demolished and a new entry was formed on the West face, relocating and refurbishing most of the main reception area.

Extensive works were carried out on the building services, scoping and repairing passive and active fire protection, mechanical, gas, plumbing and drainage systems. All building services were fully tested and the HVAC system was re-balanced.

The internal walls and finishes were stripped back and reinstated to allow for the cladding panel replacement and earthquake repairs. Each bathroom had the water proof membrane tested and repaired as required. New carpets and tiles were laid through out the building.

Hawkins worked closely with the tenant’s to ensure their requirements were met and to facilitate a smooth transition back into the building. Special cleaning processes and certification were carried out in the food preparation areas. Early entry was provided to ACCOR who reinstated furniture and provided staff training.

Hawkins also worked closely with Christchurch City Council to obtain Code Compliance on four separate building consents. The Novotel Hotel was the last large building to be remediated before the removal of the CBD red zone.