Heathcote Valley School

Earthquake recovery and modernisation for Heathcote Valley School
Te Kura o Te Tihi o Kahukura/Heathcote Valley School, established in 1860, required major redevelopment after significant damage in the 2011 earthquake, as part of the Ministry of Education’s Christchurch School Rebuild programme. The project included demolishing four buildings, constructing two new classroom blocks and a library, refurbishing the administration building and seven classrooms, and repairing the hall and site infrastructure.
With around 250 pupils on site, works were carefully planned to minimise disruption, keeping playgrounds and common areas available during school hours. Each phase was completed with individual Certificates for Public Use, allowing students to safely return as spaces were finished.
The presence of a Mobil Oil pipeline and archaeological oversight added complexity, requiring additional safety and planning. Sustainable construction practices were adopted, with salvaged classrooms repurposed for future use. The project was delivered on time, met all quality expectations, and stayed within budget.

2
New classroom blocks constructed
7
Classrooms refurbished
4
Buildings demolished and sustainably repurposed