The Napier Courthouse External Refurbishment project delivers a full upgrade of the building’s exterior envelope to improve durability, weather performance, energy efficiency, and long term asset resilience. The works take place on a live courthouse facility in central Napier, requiring a carefully staged approach to ensure uninterrupted courthouse operations, safe public access, and secure separation between construction activities and judicial functions

The refurbishment includes the removal and replacement of all external cladding systems, canopies, soffits, upper façade screens, and associated structural elements. New rainscreen cladding, upgraded aluminium joinery with retrofitted double glazing, new shroud and louvre systems, redesigned canopy structures, and full repainting modernise the external appearance of the courthouse while improving thermal performance and weather protection. A full upgrade of the sally port area is incorporated into the works to enhance security and operational flow.

Given the building’s high security and public facing nature, the project places strong emphasis on staging, communication, and environmental controls. Work proceeds elevation by elevation, supported by scaffold gantries, full perimeter hoardings, blackout protection, temporary weatherproofing systems, strict access control, and continuous coordination with court staff. Noisy or disruptive activities are scheduled around live hearing times, ensuring the justice process remains uninterrupted.

Long lead procurement items—including louvres, canopies, exterior wall tiles, aluminium joinery, and structural steel—are programmed early to mitigate supply chain risk. Close collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, consultant team, and courthouse administrators ensures each stage is delivered safely, compliantly, and with minimal disruption to the public.

Scope of Works

Exterior Building Envelope Works

• Removal of existing fibre cement cladding, soffits, canopies, and upper façade screens

• Installation of a new rainscreen cladding system

• Installation of new aluminium soffit linings

• Construction of new canopies including structural steel framing

• Installation of new upper façade screens or capping to existing steel supports

• Installation of new shroud and louvre systems

• Full exterior repainting

• Installation of new external lighting and building signage

Window and Glazing Upgrades

• Removal of existing aluminium windows

• Retrofit installation of new thermally broken double glazed aluminium joinery

• Trial window installation on the North Elevation to confirm detailing and supply scope

• Staged removals and replacements to maintain courthouse operations

Sally Port Upgrade

• Full replacement and upgrade of the sally port structure and finishes

• Improvements to security, vehicle operation flows, and durabiliy