Located in the heart of New Zealand’s capital, the St James Theatre is known as the jewel in the crown of Wellington’s flourishing theatre scene.
The facility was designed in the early 1900s and holds a significant historical value as a Category 1 listed building by Heritage New Zealand.
minor and major restorations
It has gone through several minor and major restorations throughout its lifetime yet still holds accents to old-world glamour with a touch of modern technology.
EQUANS has been engaged by Maycroft Construction to replace the aging Fire Protection System to increase the safety of the building for its visitors, occupants, and nearby surrounding businesses.
The Solution
EQUANS proactively identified the requirement to also replace the Suppression & Electronic Systems
Due to the aging condition of the older system, EQUANS was engaged by the client to replace the existing Fire Protection System with a newer, more reliable solution to ensure the facility is protected in the event of a fire.
Initially, EQUANS was contracted to replace the existing Fire Protection Systems along the boundary walls of the theatre.
However, as the project progressed, EQUANS proactively identified the requirement to also replace the Suppression & Electronic Systems (the Sprinkler Valves and Fire Alarms), which was approved by the client.
Seismic strengthening and upgrades
The expanded scope of works covered seismic strengthening and upgrades of the existing Sprinkler Systems to be undertaken.
EQUANS successfully carried out the installation of a new analog addressable Fire Alarm System using PTIR detectors in the theater, along with a new timer system to isolate the theatre stage area with ‘double knock’ detection, both of which are the first of their kind in New Zealand.
The Benefit
EQUANS has delivered a tailored and innovative solution while maintaining a fundamental focus on safety, quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
The new state-of-the-art Fire Protection System is fully compliant with New Zealand Standards and is expected to safeguard the facility in the event of a fire for the next 20 - 25 years. EQUANS is proud to deliver Fire Systems solutions for St James Theatre by partnering for safer outcomes.
