RDT Pacific was engaged by the New Zealand Defence Force to provide Project Management and Quantity Surveying services for the Battle Training Facility project at the Ardmore Military Training Area, Papakura, Auckland. This $46 million structure has been specially designed to meet training requirements while providing flexibility to improve the efficiency and safety of Special Operations Forces (SOF) with requisite skills, training and operational preparation.

The previous facility at Ardmore was built more than 30 years ago, and no longer met the needs of its users, who need to be able to simulate complex operations in training. In contrast, the new, purpose-built structure has been specifically designed and equipped to simulate better the conditions within which the SOF works.

A range of scenario-based training is possible, using features such as staircases, lift wells, and specific structures like aircraft fuselages, ship’s bridges, and public transport. It allows for all weather training, live firing, and different entry approaches, including the use of helicopters. The facility includes live firing rooms, scenario monitoring areas and ancillary functions such as workshops and locker areas.

Explosive and manual breaching, in addition to 360-degree live weapon firing, can all be safely simulated within the structure, thanks to a specialist fit out that includes highly absorbent ballistic protection. Concurrent vehicle, foot and air assault simulations are also possible, with multiple assault teams able to move vertically and horizontally throughout the structure simultaneously. There is the potential to maximise usage through collective training at a multi-agency level, increasing the training hours and facilities available for NZ Police.

The Battle Training Facility was procured under a Guaranteed Maximum Price contract delivery method, and due to its specialised nature, featured early contractor involvement with the design team at the end of the Developed Design stage.