Improving Christchurch’s prosperity in our role as lead design engineer for a major private irrigation scheme

Central Plains Water Enhancement Scheme

It was identified that changes in Canterbury’s rural infrastructure, particularly extensive irrigation development, had positive effects on New Zealand’s economy. In response, the two-stage Central Plains Water Enhancement Scheme was developed to improve environmental and economic outcomes across a 60,000-hectare (148,263-acres) command area.

This design and build irrigation project converts the water source from groundwater pumping to a gravity fed pipeline distribution network using more environmentally sustainable alpine water.

Stage 1 included a due diligence review, distribution network design for 25,000 hectares (49,421 acres), and critical review of Stage 2’s economic feasibility. We proposed a radically alternative Stage 2 scheme that reduced the environmental footprint and project risk and significantly reduced capital expenditure at a fixed cost. As lead designer, we undertook detailed design, construction management, surveillance, and quality assurance. 

Our team managed the key risks and developed a feasible solution to irrigate a further 20,000 hectares (49,421 acres) of farmland. This project helps enhance ecological and recreational values while providing opportunity for agricultural and horticultural diversity via water security.