Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre

Outcome

From concept through detailed design, we worked closely with Aurecon during the early planning phase to define underfloor performance requirements, select optimal manifold locations, and detail penetration points for manifolds. Once the project was tendered and awarded, we collaborated with the mechanical contractors to undertake the extensive process of drawing every underfloor loop, ensuring each loop length met flow rate requirements for comfort while satisfying system pressure drop criteria. This early-stage collaboration allowed us to anticipate challenges and engineer solutions before installation began. Our involvement didn’t stop at design; we were fortunate to visit the site twice during construction, reinforcing our commitment to delivering practical, high-performing solutions. 

Technical Challenges and Solutions 

Manifold placement posed a significant challenge, with nearly 500 loops, the large manifolds required highly innovative solutions. To achieve this, manifolds were arranged horizontally, vertically, and even with flow and return branches mounted side by side. Our team developed custom mounting strategies to accommodate these unique configurations, with installations located in service corridors, recessed within joinery units, and housed beneath seating areas, hidden from view but essential to performance. We selected FAR manifolds for their superior reliability and engineered configurations with up to 22 ports to meet the system’s scale and complexity. For pipework, PE-RT was chosen for its outstanding flexibility, ease of installation, and integrated oxygen barrier, ensuring durability, efficiency, and long-term system integrity. 

Parakiore is more than a sports centre; it’s a symbol of resilience and innovation. For Central Heating New Zealand, it represents our capability to deliver large-scale, technically complex solutions that set industry benchmarks.