Building 614 O’Rorke Hall

We played a pivotal role in the decarbonisation of Building 614, O’Rorke Hall, directly supporting the University of Auckland’s ambitious goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2030. This complex project involved a sensitive retrofit of a 12-storey operational student accommodation building, requiring a strategy that minimised disruption to the hundreds of residents on-site. Our mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic designs were central to the facility's transformation, beginning with thorough site investigations and feasibility analyses to determine the most effective path toward electrification. A primary milestone of the project was the total elimination of natural gas reliance through the replacement of the gas-fired domestic hot water system with low-GWP CO2 heat pumps. To support this shift, we engineered significant upgrades to the electrical infrastructure and installed energy-efficient motors for the building’s extensive ventilation fans.

Beyond the mechanical plant, the scope included a comprehensive refurbishment of the entry, reception, dining, and social zones, including the games, media, and music rooms. Our integrated approach ensured that these renovated spaces were equipped with modern, sustainable services that enhance the overall student experience. Through meticulous construction oversight and stakeholder collaboration, we managed the smooth transition from legacy fossil-fuel systems to high-performance sustainable alternatives. This project not only reduced greenhouse gas emissions but also significantly improved energy performance and lowered long-term operational costs for the university.

By delivering a scalable roadmap for electrification, we have ensured O’Rorke Hall is a future-ready asset that aligns with global sustainability standards. This project stands as a premier example of our expertise in delivering innovative engineering solutions for large-scale institutional decarbonisation.