Possible Timings for the Consolidation of RNZAF Operational Capability At Ohakea
4. The original plan for consolidation presented to Cabinet in September 2003, assumed a four-year construction period following approval in mid-2003. This resulted in an expectation that the RNZAF would have vacated Base Auckland by 2007. But, with the Deloitte study now completed, it has become clear that even if a minimalist approach was taken to the redevelopment of Ohakea, at least six years from approval of the project would be needed before the RNZAF could move from Base Auckland.
5. Deloitte has developed four conceptual options for consolidation at Ohakea. Cabinet will be asked to consider the options in March 2005 with a view to selecting one (or a variation thereof) for implementation. The estimated completion times for the construction programme required by each option are described in the table below.
Table 1: Time to Complete Construction Programme for Each Option| Option | Years to implement | Construction completion date if approved in 2005 |
| A | 6 | 2010-2011 |
| B | 7 | 2011-2012 |
| C | 8 | 2012-2013 |
| D | 9 | 2013-2014 |
6. The estimated timings assume a traditional design-build model. Defence is investigating the potential to apply a Collaborative Working Arrangement model that could shorten the construction period. More detail will be available for the scheduled March 2005 Cabinet paper, but realistic construction times will only be known following discussions with industry after March 2005.
7. It is most effective and efficient for the RNZAF to move to Ohakea once the bulk of the required construction is complete. The transition to Ohakea involves the movement of around 1,100 RNZAF staff (and their families and possessions); packing and unpacking the contents of offices, workshops, hangars, and warehouses; disassembling and reassembling equipment; while continuing RNZAF operations.
8. The move to Ohakea is, therefore, expected to take up to 14 months, and is likely to be complete six months after the construction completion dates in the table above.
Back to Top