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Cyclone Gabrielle Emergency Response

Assessing over 3,000 instances of cyclone damage across the region’s rural transport network

  • 3K+

    Network Faults

  • $35M

    Cyclone Funding

  • Central Hawke’s Bay District

    Central Hawke’s Bay District

A dynamic, collaborative response helps quickly reconnect storm-damaged roadways

The immediate aftermath of a natural disaster is extremely dynamic, and it needs a response to match. When Cyclone Gabrielle hit the Central Hawke’s Bay District, our team hit the ground running. First, we performed a post-cyclone triage focused on restoring transport network connectivity. This included route security appraisal, bridge inspections, assessment of landslides and significant river scour, and design and monitoring of emergency reinstatement works in collaboration with local contractors.

We created a geographic information system (GIS)-based system where inspection and assessment data could be logged in real time, facilitating immediate decision-making and reporting. Our team carried out procurement planning and coordination for Central Hawke’s Bay District Council (CHBDC) to enhance the value provided by local contractors, increase collaboration, and tailor solutions to fit the context. We undertook programme planning and management for the operation and assisted with funding applications to position CHBDC for recovery funding. Our economics team evaluated the potential financial impacts of the proposed options, demonstrating the merit of investment for CHBDC to secure funding through a programme business case.

With over 3,000 instances of storm damage to the transport network, the cyclone’s impact was immense, but so was the collective response effort helping CHBDC restore safety in their community.

A rapid response makes all the difference

When devastating Cyclone Gabrielle hit Central Hawke’s Bay, the Stantec team responded quickly to assess damaged transportation infrastructure and reconnect communities.

Meet Our Team

Grant Maxwell, Growth Leader – Infrastructure Resilience

I want to build geo-resilient communities that can cope with an uncertain future.

Wayne Juno, Regional Director, Transport New Zealand

It’s inspiring and a privilege to connect people to career-enhancing opportunities that leave lasting positive impacts.

Marcus Grierson , Senior Structural Engineer/Structural Team Lead

Good design is my driving force—as lead structural engineer, my team and I design complete, creative and sustainable structures.
Marcus Grierson Senior Structural Engineer/Structural Team Lead Read More

Grant Russell, Planning Growth Leader

By fostering authentic and meaningful collaboration with my team and clients, I aim to find viable solutions to complex situations.

Andrew Quigley, Senior Principal Transportation Engineer

Sharing my knowledge and providing strong leadership skills drives my passion for successful project delivery.

Grant Maxwell

Growth Leader – Infrastructure Resilience

Wayne Juno

Regional Director, Transport New Zealand

Marcus Grierson

Senior Structural Engineer/Structural Team Lead

Grant Russell

Planning Growth Leader

Andrew Quigley

Senior Principal Transportation Engineer

We’re better together

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    Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.

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