Project Overview
Following a severe weather event in January 2026, a remote telecommunications site in the Gisborne Region lost its membrane roof, exposing critical infrastructure. The issue was reported on 26/01/2026, with urgency heightened by a second forecast weather event.
Access to the site required helicopter transport for all personnel, materials and equipment, creating additional logistical and time pressures.
Response
Programmed Facility Management acted immediately, engaging a vendor capable of delivering a full re-roof solution at short notice. Quotes, safety documentation and approvals were fast-tracked to enable rapid mobilisation.
Helicopter access was coordinated in parallel, ensuring the site could be reached as soon as approvals were in place. Planned preventative maintenance works were also brought forward and completed alongside the emergency repairs, reducing overall costs through shared access.
Safety remained central throughout, with all risks reviewed and managed prior to mobilisation.
Delivery
Challenging and deteriorating weather conditions impacted delivery, including a temporary evacuation when helicopter extraction became unsafe. Works resumed as soon as conditions allowed, maintaining momentum against a critical deadline.
Outcome
All works were completed within 15 working days, ensuring the site was secured ahead of the second weather event and critical infrastructure remained protected.
One of several successful emergency response operations delivered by Programmed Facility Management across New Zealand’s critical infrastructure network.
