NZ Post

In 2000, NZ Post conducted a review of current and likely future mail systems. The concept of mail was changing. Email, the growth of internet shopping, and the growth of courier services were all having an effect.

In addition, it was apparent that current automatic mail sorting equipment was only accounting for about 30 percent of mail throughput. The labour content of the sorting process was adding significantly to the cost of sending a letter. Following this review, a decision was made to purchase six new sorting machines.

A review of mail sorting premises was also conducted. This identified a need to upgrade current premises to take NZ Post into the future. In some cases this meant expansion; in others it meant the construction of entirely new buildings.

The NZP Board decided to upgrade three existing premises and to construct three new mail centres, one each in Hamilton, Christchurch and Auckland. These new mail centres would provide NZ Post with purpose-designed premises capable of housing the new technology and meeting the operational needs of a large 21^st century mail-handling organisation.

The Future Post brief called for a common design model that could be used for all three of the new mail centres. The centres would require large column-free spaces, particularly in the Processing Halls.

They would also require an environmentally sustainable approach to both their design and their operation. It was important for the new buildings to be ‘maintenance friendly’ so that NZ Post could concentrate effort and monies on the core business. Also, time was of the essence. New mail sorting equipment was already scheduled to arrive from Japan.

The Processing Halls varied in size from 6,500m² in Hamilton to 15,000m² in Auckland (the latter being the size of two football fields). The large column-free spaces were achieved using a portal structure with a draped curved roof, providing a clean modern profile.

Natural light was afforded by running glazing the full length of the building, and using roof lights wherever practicable. While a post-tensioned concrete slab to a U3 finish ensured a crack-free slab.

From the beginning, environmental sustainability was paramount. NZ Post committed the project to take on a minimum of twelve significant environmental sustainability items.

A matrix was developed to analyse potential sustainability features based on appropriateness, practicality, cost, benefits, and a philosophical fit. As a result, each of the centres incorporates a mix of high sustainability and low energy features.

These include horizontal shading of office windows; fast-acting doors to the Staging areas; low-energy light fittings; zoned lights, with sensors, timers, and separate switching as appropriate; and low-energy dishwashers and fridges.

Natural ventilation is used wherever possible, as is solar water heating. Plumbing fittings are AAA rated, and rainwater is harvested for ‘grey water’ use.

Carpets are recyclable, and linoleum has been used in lieu of vinyl wherever possible. Timber used is sustainably sourced. Roofing is unpainted Zincalume. Hardware is manufactured in New Zealand. And ceiling tiles have a high recycled content.

Permeable paving has been included in selected carpark areas. Rain gardens and drainage swales have also been used wherever possible.

And there are ample bike stands to help NZ Post staff members make their own individual contribution to a cleaner, greener environment.