Southern Cross Wellington

When linking its new and existing Wellington hospitals, Southern Cross needed to ensure patients received uninterrupted care.
Building Size
5,000 sqm
Construction Period
10 months
Industry
Healthcare
Location
Wellington, New Zealand

Staged construction keeps the hospital running

A strategic programme of upgrades was undertaken at Southern Cross Wellington Hospital to improve resilience, optimise clinical workflows, and support future healthcare delivery.

The project included seismic strengthening, an Operating Theatre 6 refurbishment, a new entrance canopy, and a link bridge connecting the hospital to the orthopaedic day-stay surgical centre.

With five operating theatres and more than 5,000 patients treated annually, hospital operations could not stop. A short Christmas shutdown provided a rare opportunity to complete critical works safely and efficiently while minimising disruption to clinical services.

“Expedite confront reality early, removing cost and time risk.”

Bridge & Shaft

Rather than building everything on-site, Expedite fabricated the bridge and lift shaft off-site. Components arrived ready to install, and within days, the structures were lifted into position. This approach allowed the hospital to remain operational, even during the short, on-site construction phase.

Early Partnership Delivers Significant Savings

Expedite was engaged early to develop the feasibility study and business case, identifying priority works and establishing a staged delivery approach focused on life safety.

Early contractor involvement enabled close collaboration with engineering specialists, resulting in an alternative seismic bracing solution that delivered substantial cost savings while maintaining structural resilience.

 

Efficient Connection of Two Live Facilities

Connecting two operational hospital buildings required careful planning and coordination. Detailed health planning confirmed a link bridge as the most effective solution, maximising functionality across both facilities.

To minimise disruption, the bridge and lift shaft were prefabricated off-site and delivered ready for installation. The structures were lifted into place within days, significantly reducing on-site construction activity and allowing hospital operations to continue uninterrupted.

Setting a Clear Course

To help the board make an informed and confident decision, Expedite presented Southern Cross with clear upgrade options, including detailed budgets, design plans and programmes of work.

Innovative Design

Southern Cross needed to know that its investment would deliver results – on time and on budget. Expedite’s project management involved real-time cost tracking, weekly reporting and tightly coordinated schedules across design, procurement and construction. 

Delivered with Precision

As the main contractor, Expedite managed every aspect of construction from initial planning to execution. Dedicated site managers coordinated each lift and installation, working closely with hospital teams to maintain access, safety and continuity of care.

Days Ahead of Schedule

$ M

Amount Saved due to Early Engagement*

Separate Project Stages

What we delivered

Expedite completed an upgrade of Southern Cross’s Wellington Hospital, including refurbishment of Theatre 6, expansion of CSSD, seismic strengthening of the existing structure, canopy replacement, and installation of the new link bridge. The project’s success was due to meticulous planning, innovation and genuine care for the people who rely on the facility every day.

Expedite completed an upgrade of Southern Cross’s Wellington Hospital, including refurbishment of Theatre 6, expansion of CSSD, seismic strengthening of the existing structure, canopy replacement, and installation of the new link bridge. The project’s success was due to meticulous planning, innovation and genuine care for the people who rely on the facility every day.

Expedite completed an upgrade of Southern Cross’s Wellington Hospital, including refurbishment of Theatre 6, expansion of CSSD, seismic strengthening of the existing structure, canopy replacement, and installation of the new link bridge. The project’s success was due to meticulous planning, innovation and genuine care for the people who rely on the facility every day.

Our Projects

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