Supporting the delivery of Tupuārangi student accommodation at the University of Canterbury

Southbase Construction was delivering Tupuārangi under a design-build contract, with design development and construction progressing at the same time. The project team needed a fire engineering solution that was practical to build, compliant with regulatory requirements and aligned with construction milestones.

The development also faced several design constraints. The University of Canterbury sought to maximise the number of student rooms within the available footprint while working within height restrictions for the site. At the same time, the building was required to open for students at the start of Semester 1 2026.

For our fire engineering team, one of the key challenges was integrating fire protection systems within limited ceiling spaces while coordinating with other building services. High service density created additional complexity for fire rating requirements, particularly where multiple services occupied tight spaces throughout the building.

The programme added another layer of complexity. Design approvals and consent documentation needed to progress within demanding timeframes to maintain momentum and support the construction schedule. 

We provided comprehensive fire engineering services across fire safety, fire protection and passive fire design throughout both the design and construction phases. Our role extended beyond design documentation, with ongoing construction support, site involvement and technical review helping the project move forward efficiently.

We developed the project's fire strategy and supported compliance with the New Zealand Building Code. Our work included the design of fire detection and sprinkler systems, hydrant risers, firefighting facilities, protected evacuation routes and lift controls for emergency response. Each student room was designed as an individual fire cell, supporting the overall fire safety strategy for the building.

Alongside the fire safety strategy, we prepared detailed specifications for the building's fire protection systems and reviewed construction documentation to support quality outcomes throughout delivery.

Coordinating services in constrained spaces

A major focus of our involvement was integrating fire requirements into a building with limited ceiling space and a high concentration of services.

We worked closely with the architect and building services engineers to coordinate fire protection systems, fire ratings and wider building services. Through this collaborative approach, the team developed a repeatable design solution that allowed services to run through corridor spaces and into individual bedrooms using a consistent arrangement.

This coordination supported efficient use of available space while maintaining compliance with fire safety requirements.

Supporting delivery through collaboration

Because design and construction progressed in parallel, responsive communication was essential. We maintained close engagement with Southbase Construction and the wider project team throughout construction. We responded to contractor requests for information, participated in site activities and provided technical advice as issues emerged. This proactive approach helped identify challenges early and supported informed decision-making as works progressed.

We also coordinated with key project partners including Jasmax, Aurecon and Powell Fenwick to align fire engineering requirements with architectural, structural and building services design.

Meeting programme requirements was a critical project driver. Our team worked to provide design information and technical guidance within the required timeframes, supporting consent approvals and helping keep the project on track. By coordinating closely with other consultants and responding promptly to project needs, we helped maintain progress towards the planned opening date. 

Tupuārangi opened in time for students commencing Semester 1 2026, providing new accommodation capacity at the University of Canterbury's Ilam campus. The residence now offers accommodation for 283 students within a modern living environment designed to support student life and wellbeing.

The completed building incorporates comprehensive fire safety, fire protection and passive fire measures that support occupant safety and regulatory compliance. Throughout the project, we helped align design intent with built outcomes, creating confidence in the performance of the building's life safety systems.

The project also includes documented fire safety systems and maintenance information that support the ongoing management of the residence throughout its operational life.

The project demonstrated the value of continuous fire engineering involvement across design and construction. Working closely with Southbase Construction and the wider design team enabled challenges to be addressed as they arose and supported a coordinated approach to delivery.

The positive outcome has contributed to ongoing engagement on future University of Canterbury accommodation developments.