Pacific Partnerships and CPB Contractors, CIMIC Group companies, have secured a contract from the New Zealand Ministry of Education to design, construct and finance four new primary schools.

The project, which is the third New Zealand Schools public-private partnership (PPP) initiative, covers three primary schools in Auckland and one in Hamilton. It also includes the relocation and co-location of Shirley Boys’ High School and Avonside Girls’ High School in Christchurch, and operational services of the schools for 25 years.

The project also includes the provision to add additional schools in the future.

CPB Contractors will execute the design and construction program under a 60/40 joint venture with Christchurch-based Southbase Construction. Pacific Partnerships, alongside HRL Morrison & Co managed PIP Fund 2, will provide funding for 25 years, while Spotless will carry out the operational services.

CPB Contractors managing director, Román Garrido, said: “Our team is committed to utilising innovative design techniques and cost-effective construction methodologies to ensure all project objectives are realised.

“To ensure sustainable and successful delivery, we are focused on maximising the participation of local businesses and enhancing local workforce capabilities, which will benefit future schools initiatives and broader regional infrastructure projects.”

Construction work is expected to commence in July 2017, with the schools anticipated to open in 2019. The contract will generate revenue of about NZD113M ($79.3M) to CIMIC.

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