Higgins Waikato celebrates success at CCNZ Waikato 2025 Awards

Higgins Waikato achieved significant wins at this year’s Civil Contractors New Zealand (CCNZ) Waikato Awards, receiving recognition for two outstanding projects.

The KiwiRail Te Rapa Container Terminal Yard Extension project won the Category 1 Project Award. The team extended the existing container yard to the rail tracks, allowing containers to be stacked rather than forklifted individually – a major step forward in efficiency for KiwiRail’s busy freight hub. Delivered within a live rail terminal, the project required strict planning around daily train movements, precision construction to a 5mm tolerance, and close collaboration with KiwiRail and stakeholders. Completed in just five weeks, the upgrade showcases Higgins’ commitment to quality, innovation, and stakeholder satisfaction.

Higgins also received the Health and Safety Award for the SH1 Piarere to Wairakei Safety Improvements – Section L. This $24 million safety upgrade spanned 6.9km of State Highway 1 and included median and roadside barriers, new drainage, pavement rebuilds, and signage. Delivered over 15 months with zero lost time injuries, the project was completed ahead of schedule despite challenging winter conditions and complex staging. By working in close partnership with NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, WSP, and subcontractors, the team successfully enhanced safety for road users on one of New Zealand’s busiest corridors.

These awards reflect Higgins Waikato’s dedication to safety, quality, and collaboration – values that continue to drive successful outcomes for clients, stakeholders, and communities across the region.

We also had a finalist in the People awards – Graduate Engineer, Hugh Weerdenburg, Emerging Leader.