State-of-the-art arena for Christchurch
Client
Canterbury Multi-Use Arena
Location
Ōtautahi (Christchurch), Aotearoa/New Zealand
Sector
The $683M Canterbury Multi-Use Arena (CMUA) also now known one.nz is a state-of-the-art venue designed to host a wide range of events year-round, including expos, concerts, festivals, trade shows, and sports events. This versatile arena boasts a seating capacity of 30,000 for sports events, with the flexibility to expand for other types of events. The CMUA is set to re-establish Christchurch as a sporting and cultural capital, boosting the city’s economy by attracting visitors from across New Zealand and around the world. Partnering with Besix Watpac, Warren and Mahoney, Populous.
Innovative Design and Structure
The arena’s design is divided into three distinct zones: the west stand, south stand, and east stand. The bowl structure of Te Kaha comprises concrete shear walls and columns, as well as steel beams at ground level, transitioning to a steel-framed system at the upper levels. Notably, the seating bowl has been designed to be column-free, ensuring unobstructed views for all attendees.
Advanced Engineering and Sustainability
Holmes is engaged to provide Fire Engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, and Structural Fire Engineering services for the CMUA. The project prioritises sustainability by aiming to reduce whole-of-life embodied carbon and deliver a sustainable design. Holmes upgraded their horizontal test machine to prove the performance of the buckling restrained braces (BRBs) used in this project. These BRBs are among the largest ever used in New Zealand, enhancing local capability, shortening testing timelines, and minimizing environmental impact through reduced shipping.
Project Timeline
The construction of the Canterbury Multi-Use Arena is expected to be completed by 2026, marking a significant milestone for Christchurch and the broader region.
