Central Hawke’s Bay District Council Announces Awarding of $35 million Land Transport Contracts

Central Hawke’s Bay residents’ can rest assured their land transport needs are in good hands after the District Council today announced the signing of new partnerships with both Downer and Higgins.

As part of the Council’s commitment to delivering on project thrive, a procurement process was approved last year to administer the four major contracts that fall under its land transport related services.  

At the conclusion of the process, and after robust evaluation, Downer and Higgins were awarded two each of the four contracts, at an Extraordinary Council meeting on the 30 April 2020.

Chief Executive of Council, Monique Davidson, is pleased with the outcome saying it’s great to be able to foster economic activity through initiatives such as these.

“These four contracts combined are worth $35 million over the next two to five years which provides for great economic stimulus in the face of such challenging times.

“The potential for local employment is yet another added bonus we hope to see stemming from this work.”

Mrs Davidson says she has complete faith in the two firms to deliver on their commitments, and to a very high standard at that.

“As part of the procurement process we were in search of partners who not only offered the technical competence and experience, but whom would also invest the time into growing our mutual relationship.

“As a Council, we see the value in collaborative partnerships where all involved parties take the time to better understand what’s possible for our communities and go above and beyond in working out how we might best deliver on those possibilities.”

Downer retained its existing contract for road maintenance as well as securing the work for road reseal services. Each contract has a three-year term, with the possibility of two 12-month extensions.

This work will incorporate all day-to-day servicing and repair on the District’s road network as well as the renewal of existing road seals to provide safe traction for vehicles, and ensure associated pavements are waterproofed.

Downer East Coast Regional Manager, Darrin Davy, says the firm is thrilled with the result and looks forward to continuing working alongside the Council, supply partners and the wider community.

“We pride ourselves on delivering a high standard of service and strive to build and maintain enduring relationships with our clients and stakeholders.”

“To have been successful in retaining the existing contract for road maintenance along with being awarded an additional, we feel, is a testament to this.  

He says the contracts will enable Downer to continue building on and enhancing the already great relationship they have with the Council.

“Our staff, especially those who live locally, take great pride in their work within Central Hawke’s Bay and I have no doubt this will shine through in our work.”

Higgins was awarded the contracts for constructing area wide pavement treatments and minor structural improvement services. These two contracts have a two year term.

These contracts will see Higgins renew entire sections of road where pavements have failed, as well as structural work to ensure the District’s bridges, retaining walls and guardrails are functioning in a safe and reliable manner.

Higgins Branch Manager, Michael Job, says the business is really pleased to have secured these contracts, especially in the midst of such uncertain economic times.

“We are now not only a preferred supplier, but a long-term partner of Central Hawke’s Bay District Council, and that is something we are proud of.

He says the success in securing the contracts is reflective of the company’s workmanship and commitment to the local community.

“As a team, we’re really looking forward to delivering this work for such a thriving District.”

Mrs Davidson says both contractors understand the districts needs with regards to land transport and its associated facilities.

“Road maintenance and reseal services go hand in hand so having those two services delivered by one party affords us valuable cost savings and efficiencies.

“Higgins has a strong presence locally in Central Hawke’s Bay and have successfully completed work of this nature in the past so it’s great to be working alongside them as well.”

The procurement process, which closed on 20 March, saw five suppliers submit tenders each of varying nature with regards to how many and which contracts they were applying for.

The evaluation process, though falling during the Covid-19 Alert Level 4 period, was able to be conducted thoroughly and in full, with a dedicated team and the use of remote working technology.

“Ultimately, we were looking for long-term partners who had the best interests of the Central Hawke’s Bay communities at heart, and could deliver a high standard of work at affordable and sustainable prices.

“I believe we have achieved just that and look forward to seeing the partnerships come to fruition.”

Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor, Alex Walker, is a strong supporter of the outcome saying it’s a great building block for reenergising the local economy.

“As we emerge from the depths of Covid-19 and continue to support those impacted by the ongoing drought, it’s time to start focussing on economic recovery.

“Contracts such as these are vital components for stimulating growth, so we can keep Central Hawke’s Bay thriving.”

1 May 2020

Back to Archive