Christchurch, New Zealand – Webuild is part of the Southern Renewal Partners consortium awarded a public-private partnership (PPP) contract for the delivery of the redevelopment of Christchurch Men’s Prison for the New Zealand Department of Corrections.

The project, with Design and Construct final value of NZ$440 million (approximately €225 million), including Webuild Share of NZ$308 million (approximately €157 million), involves the redevelopment and expansion of the existing Christchurch Men’s Prison, an operational minimum-to-high security facility located in Templeton, approximately 15 kilometres west of Christchurch’s city centre. 

The new facilities will be designed to support Department of Corrections operating requirements, providing a modern, safe environment for staff and prisoners. All design elements align with Corrections’ reference designs and design guidance.

At peak construction, the project is expected to employ approximately 600 people, supporting local jobs, supply chains, and capability development across the region.

The Commercial Structure of the PPP includes Plenary Group, Webuild S.p.A., Leighs Construction and Serco. The Design & Construct scope includes Webuild S.p.A. and Leighs Construction.

Department of Corrections retains responsibility for delivering all custodial services.

Marco Assorati, Webuild Senior Executive Vice President Operations Oceania, said:
“We are honoured to partner with the New Zealand Department of Corrections on a project of such importance to the community. Our focus is on delivering modern, safe and sustainable facilities that support rehabilitation and strengthen operational outcomes. With our local partners, we look forward to bringing global expertise and local capability together to deliver a project that will serve the region for decades to come.”

The award marks Webuild’s return to New Zealand, where the Group previously contributed to the development of the Tongariro Hydroelectric Power Scheme, one of the country’s most significant renewable energy projects that played a key role in the development of New Zealand’s national energy system. 

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