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APRIL 2010

Excavation has begun on Auckland City's first transport tunnel which when completed should help ease congestion in a key part of Auckland's motorway network. Victoria Park Tunnel is the first of seven Roads of National Significance targeted by the New Zealand Government for priority completion. It is a vital new link presenting unique challenges with design and construction supported throughout by Harrison Grierson's experienced Survey team.

Survey work on the project began three years ago with topographic surveys of the area surrounding the proposed tunnel. This detailed survey of the adjacent motorway, structures, services and land  provided a comprehensive Digital Terrain Model which could be relied on as a base for the complex design of this complex project. Assessing existing building, structure and ground conditions continues to be an important component as the excavation assumes some risk to adjoining property.

Excavation for the tunnel will take place in five stages and overall construction will take approximately one year to complete. The finished 440 metre tunnel will divert northbound traffic away from the Victoria Viaduct and should significantly improve travel times for vehicles crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge.