The Minister of Police initiated the start of construction of Wanaka's new Police station in a ceremonial 'turning of the first sod'.

Completed in late 2013, the future proofed building provides a shared facility for both police and it's key community partners and features stand-alone emergency capabilities for up to 48 hours and a range of environmentally sustainable design features.

"As well as an operational centre for local police, including PoliceSAR and special operations activities, it is also an excellent facility for use by Land SAR", says Wanaka Sub-Area Commander, Senior Sergeant Allan Grindell. "With the enormous population growth in the Wanaka area over the past decade, it is a fantastic asset for both police and the community", he adds.

The building has an intentionally non-institutional feel and features flexible internal spaces including secure prisoner transfer into short-term holding facilities, a charge room, EBA facilities, video interview and medical examination rooms and other custodial facilities.

Signal managed the project for NZ Police including developing the project brief, engaging consultants, managing the statutory consents process, user consultation, design management, tendering and procurement and construction management.