Keeping historic hotel development well contained

Creating a safe construction environment while maintaining pedestrian access in a busy city centre presented significant challenges for a landmark hotel development in Palmerston North.

United Rentals worked with Safari Group to create a container worksite solution for the development of the $50 million Tryp by Wyndham Hotel, a project which will revitalise the city's historic Post Office building.

"When you're working in a busy pedestrian area, you need solutions that prioritise public safety while giving construction teams the space and facilities they need to work efficiently," says Chris Gregory, Palmerston North Branch Manager.

The comprehensive container solution includes seven 20-foot container hoardings, two 20-foot site office containers, and a 20-foot lunchroom for construction staff during the two-year development.

"Our container walkways protect pedestrians and give Safari Group the ability to maintain a secure, functional workspace throughout the entire construction process while also providing better outcomes for the local community.”   

Meeting customer need

"Managing a project of this scale in a high-traffic area comes with significant logistical challenges," says Dean Wade, Construction Manager at Safari Group.

"The United Rentals hoardings give us the safe and secure perimeter we need to revitalise this iconic local site. With the site offices and lunchroom containers being delivered ready to use, we were up and running and ready to go quickly."

The $15 million first-stage represents a game-changer for the Manawatu city which is a significant regional hub in New Zealand. 

Originally built in 1905, the historic building served as a Post Office until 1988 before becoming home to a restaurant, bar and night spot, first known as Eagle Rock, then High Flyers.

Safari Group plans to reuse the original timber trusses and stained-glass windows in the new hotel development.

When completed, the modern hotel facilities will include a health spa, gym, conference and meeting space, and ground-floor retail including a café or restaurant.

Delivering the containers was a coordinated effort with Morgan Crane & Freight expertly placing the hoardings, while Move Logistics delivered the offices and lunchroom containers to the site.