Main Contractor for Southland Boys' High School - Pearce Block Steel Window Replacement

Overview The Ministry of Education (NZ) is seeking a main contractor to carry out the replacement of steel windows on the Pearce Block at Southland Boys' High School. About During planning for the Block A major roof replacement in 2023, it was identified that the north-side steel windows were in significant disrepair. The school had intended to carry out cyclical maintenance painting while scaffolding was in place for the roof works. However, following investigations and a subsequent Condition Assessment Report, it was confirmed that many of the steel frames had degraded to such an extent that steel had delaminated, resulting in failure to operate, poor weathertightness, and reduced energy efficiency. As this is a listed historical building, Heritage New Zealand was engaged and confirmed and validated the assessment findings, advising that in-situ repair was no longer viable. In consultation with Heritage NZ, agreement was reached to replace the existing units with aluminium-framed, double-glazed windows designed to replicate the original steel windows. To preserve the façade's heritage character (Heritage NZ Class 2), the solution incorporates false set aluminium colonial bars to maintain the original appearance while providing durability, weathertightness, and compliance with New Zealand Building Code energy efficiency standards. Purpose This project is critical to prevent ongoing heat loss, moisture ingress, and consequential damage to the building fabric. Scope The scope includes: Demolition of existing steel framed windows Installation of new aluminium framed windows Making good interior and exterior surrounding plaster and linings Staging or phasing of works to the façade where necessary to minimise intrusion into the school's activities The extent of the contract works area encompasses the entire northern façade of Pearce Block, excluding only the existing central, curved, aluminium framed joinery unit.