BRIEF
Nimon and Sons needed a centrally located base for its bus operation. The Whakatu industrial area was selected as an ideal place to build a transport hub. LHTDesign assisted in the evaluation of the property and then continued to design an aesthetically pleasing, practical workshop building for buses and trucks that would meet the needs of Nimon and Sons for many years into the future. There was a specific desire to create an energy efficient and environmentally sustainable development that offered comfortable working surroundings for the Nimons team that exceeded the industry norm.

The property is located immediately adjacent to the Whakatu Stream, and extensive landscaping works are proposed, in conjunction with the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council.

PROJECT OUTLINE

• The development includes a 900m² workshop with an elevated service area and the ability to service 10 trucks or buses at any one time.
• A 300m² office and administration building is adjacent to the workshop, fully air-conditioned and data-serviced to meet the sophisticated needs of an award-winning bus company.
• The surrounds offer ample parking area, with all stormwater runoff being treated within the confines of the property.
• The challenging ground conditions meant that geotextile materials were required to be incorporated into the basecourse design, and rainwater collected from building roofs is used for the domestic supply.
• All aspects of the design process were managed by LHTDesign, including geotechnical, civil, structural, electrical, mechanical, architectural and regulatory.
• The consultation process was extensive and included territorial authorities and key personnel from Nimons.

THE FUTURE
The next stage is the construction of a separate panel shop building, a bus wash using recycled water and a fuel stop fronting Whakatu Road.

OUTCOME
The completed complex has been well received by the client giving them a modern facility which has been future proofed to allow for expansion.

REFERENCE
For a client’s perspective on this project please contact
Bill Nimon of Nimon & Sons.  Phone: (06) 877 8133.