Tonkin + Taylor

In January 2020, Tonkin + Taylor proudly became a founding signatory of The Diversity Agenda Accord, an initiative encompassing New Zealand's engineering and architecture sectors. This Accord represents our dedication to fostering a profession that reflects the diverse society of Aotearoa. Recently, our team—comprising Chief Executive Penny Kneebone, Marketing + Indigenous Director and Diversity Agenda Steering Committee member Angela Young, and DEIB Lead Talia Ritchie—participated in the annual summit at Parliament. This summit provided a platform to review the 2024 industry insights report, present the Advancing Women in Engineering and Construction report, and engage in meaningful discussions on how we can collectively maximise our impact on the industry. The Diversity Agenda's vision is clear: "We help design and create the future of Aotearoa. Our professions include everyone, so the world we shape is as diverse as the people in it." Its focus is on three critical areas: retaining women in our industry, increasing the participation of Māori and Pacific peoples, and fostering inclusive leadership. At Tonkin + Taylor, we are committed to creating an environment where every individual's voice is valued. Through collaboration with industry peers, commitment to closing the gender pay gap, meaningful professional development with Te Tiriti and Tikanga training, flexible working policies, rainbow, reconciliation awareness, and unconscious bias education, we aim to build a future that is inclusive and equitable for all. We encourage organisations across the industry and beyond to join us in this journey. Together, we can create a future where diversity and inclusion are embraced and embedded in every workplace. Every contribution counts—let's support each other in making a meaningful difference. #DiversityAgenda #InclusiveLeadership #Engineering #Architecture #TonkinTaylor #DiversityAndInclusion #Aotearoa #NewZealand

Are we courageous enough to innovate in the water sector? In the first of this two-part series, Tonkin + Taylor’s Senior Water Resources Consultant and former Water New Zealand Stormwater group committee member Brad Tiller, explores alternative funding sources to bridge the water infrastructure funding gap. “We haven’t got the money, so we’ve got to think.” - Sir Ernest Rutherford’s words resonate deeply as we face a water infrastructure investment crisis. Despite not splitting the atom, Brad thinks we certainly are splitting hairs over where the necessary funds to pay for water infrastructure comes from.   Brad explores these thought-provoking questions: – Are we still a nation of thinkers courageous enough to try something different, or are we resting on our laurels and getting a bit soft? – Are we becoming a nation that is good at talking about issues, but not really solving them? – Has our reputation for bold problem-solving, fueled by our isolation and innovative spirit, faded? – Why is our financial innovation (that actually enables water infrastructure delivery and the development economy) not as progressive as other forward-thinking nations? – We are a rich country with ample sovereign wealth, so why aren’t we drawing on our own funding sources as opposed to burdening ourselves with more international debt? As we aim to lead the world in water management through the principles of Te Mana o te Wai, we must also innovate financially to achieve these goals. Let’s embrace bold solutions and address our water infrastructure challenges head-on. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gGBNiZmi #WaterSector #WaterNewZealand #EnablingInvestment #InfrastructureInnovation #SustainableInvestment #EngineeringLeadership

Tonkin + Taylor recently attended the GEOANZ #2 Australasian Geosynthetics Conference#2 Australasian Geosynthetics Conference in Melbourne, where our team gained critical insight into environmental engineering and geosynthetics. A special congratulations to Simonne Eldridge, Executive Leader – Clients + Brands, for being awarded Best Oral Presentation. This is an outstanding achievement among this calibre of industry experts. Jonathan Shamrock, our Technical Director – Environmental Engineering, commented: "It was inspiring to see so many geosynthetic industry representatives at GEOANZ#2, debating and discussing issues around geosynthetic material performance and durability. The conference pushed the limits of our understanding of these materials, particularly on how they contribute to the sustainability and resilience of infrastructure essential for modern civilisation." Key takeaways from the conference included: – 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲: With the updated environmental protection acts, site owners are now required to act based on the latest industry knowledge to mitigate environmental risks. This includes data from the EPA, on-site observations, government sources, and industry conferences. – 𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗲 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗙𝗔𝗦 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: The importance of high-performance geomembranes (GM) for long-term landfill containment, especially for PFAS, was highlighted. Standard GM13 may be insufficient; thus, rigorous multi-temperature immersion testing is crucial to ensure durability. In some cases, double composite liners may be necessary to meet stringent PFAS limits. – 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Investing in high-standard designs can lead to reduced long-term maintenance and repair costs, despite higher initial expenses. Engineers must balance design flexibility with clients' understanding of the risks associated with design changes. Luke Adams, Principal Environmental Engineer, noted, "The insights from GEOANZ#2 are crucial, especially with the recent updates to the state environmental protection act. It's important for site operators, consultants, and auditors to act on current industry knowledge, using insights from various sources to mitigate environmental risks." The knowledge and experiences gained from the GEOANZ#2 conference highlight our team's ongoing efforts to grow and learn in the field of environmental engineering and geosynthetics. At Tonkin + Taylor, we are dedicated to working collaboratively and continuing to build on our expertise, striving to make a positive impact in the industry and contribute to a sustainable future.   #GEOANZ2024 #EngineeringExcellence #SustainableDesign #PFAS #Geosynthetics #EnvironmentalEngineering   Alexandra de Guzman, Andrew Shallard, Cory Dogger, Melissa Fortune

Tonkin + Taylor is featured in the latest issue of the Association of Strategic Alliance Professionals' Strategic Alliance Quarterly. In this edition, our Global Partnering Lead, Casey Giberson, delves into the immense value that collaboration and strategic partnering relationships bring to Tonkin + Taylor. “Partnering enables us to enhance our value proposition and build lasting relationships with our partners and clients. It is essential to our future,” says Casey. "Through strategic alliances, we are able to combine expertise, resources, and innovative solutions, allowing us to tackle complex challenges and deliver positive and integrated solutions." At T+T, we recognise that the landscape of our industry is constantly evolving. Collaborative methods are not just beneficial but crucial as we work towards creating and sustaining a better future. These methods empower us to provide our clients with holistic and integrated solutions that are tailored to meet their unique needs. Our commitment to partnerships extends beyond mere cooperation. We believe in fostering enduring relationships built on trust, mutual respect, and shared goals. This approach not only enhances our service delivery but also contributes to the continuous improvement and growth of our organisation and those we work with. Read the full article below:

We are proud to announce that Tonkin + Taylor’s Design Manager, Mark Foster, is a finalist for Infrastructure New Zealand’s, Building Nations – Outstanding Leadership and Contribution to Infrastructure Award. With over 20 years of experience, Mark’s leadership and innovative approach to projects have left an indelible mark on Tonkin + Taylor and many of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects. He consistently pushes the boundaries of traditional infrastructure design and management, generating award-winning results. Mark has worked on key projects including the Waterview Connection, Te Ara Tupua Alliance, and the SH25A Taparahi Slip remediation after cyclone Gabrielle. His collaborative spirit, problem-solving and community engagement skills were instrumental to each of these projects’ success. Mark’s commitment to community and stakeholder engagement is evident through his engagement with mana whenua, ensuring cultural values and narratives are deeply integrated into project designs. Mark is dedicated to mentoring and developing others, and through and has influenced the careers of hundreds of people within Tonkin + Taylor and across industry. As Mark puts it: “I love that my work results in real benefits to the community that one can measure and see and that I can show to my kids.” Mark’s contributions to infrastructure not only enhance today’s projects but also pave the way for future generations, leaving a legacy of innovation and excellence. Good luck and congratulations to all the nominees, it is inspiring to see leaders driving the development of resilient infrastructure across Aotearoa, ensuring a brighter future for our communities. #infrastructure #leadership #buildingnations

Episode three of the Inogen Alliance delves into Bridging the Gap of Occupation Safety Across Borders, featuring Tonkin + Taylor’s Senior Environmental Health + Safety Consultant Bruno Zapata. Workplace safety isn’t just a priority, it's a fundamental requirement. As occupational risks evolve, how can we ensure that our safety practices not only comply with regulatory requirements but also cultivate a safety culture across industries? Tune in to this episode to hear interviews from leaders in the Environmental Health and Safety space with experts, Bruno Zapata,  Alizabeth Aramowicz Smith, Senior Environmental Health and Safety Consultant at Antea Group USA and Sofiane Kessouar, Senior Environmental Health and Safety Consultant at Baden Consulting EMA, as they discuss the multifacted landscape of occupational health, spanning regions and industries. Bruno emphasises meaningful engagement with health and safety, noting that “Some companies want to quickly resolve a case, or they want to quickly close something, but you need to use that as an opportunity. You need to engage with the stakeholders, and you need to try to understand, “Okay, what is actually the root cause of this event, so I can prevent this?” In this episode we will explore the global differences in EHS, the influence of local cultures on safety structures, and innovative solutions to mitigate workplace risks today. Emphasising the importance of fostering a strong safety culture, continuous learning, and proactive strategies to foster safer workplaces for all. Subscribe here: Spotify - https://lnkd.in/dUT5nY4t Apple podcasts - https://lnkd.in/d2DtW3Uz Or listen on the T+T website here: https://lnkd.in/gyUAX-8v #InogenAlliance #EHS #ESG #healthandsafety #climateresilience #sustainability #environmentalconsulting #sustainablefuture #safetyprofessionals #internationalbusiness #podcast

We are happy to announce the addition of a new shareholder, with our Associate Tonkin + Taylor, New Zealand and new board member, Richard Hancy, Tonkin + Taylor. “We are so pleased to join the Inogen Alliance board as collectively we address some of the world’s biggest challenges. I look forward to working with my fellow Board members to enable Inogen Alliance Associates to partner more meaningfully with clients to solve their business challenges and build a more sustainable future, “ Richard Hancy, Executive Leader, Tonkin + Taylor. “As the Alliance continues to evolve, grow and plan for the next set of strategic priorities, we are thrilled to have one of our largest Associate companies become a shareholder and appoint Richard to our Board of Directors. We rely on our board members to help us understand regional and global trends and innovations and to bring in new business ideas. I look forward to working closely with Richard as we plan for the next evolution of the Alliance,” Peylina Chu, Chair of the Board and Senior Vice President of Antea Group USA. Read more in our news article here: https://hubs.la/Q02HvhXP0

The Tonkin + Taylor team in Ōtautahi, Christchurch opened the new Durham Street office space in the Awly Building. Located in a Green Star building, this people-friendly space is seismically safe and resilient. More importantly, the Christchurch team can be reunited after being split between the over-capacity Cashel office and a satellite office. The Christchurch office has come a long way since it was established 30 years ago. We had 22 staff before the first of the Canterbury earthquakes in September 2010. In the tragic February 2011 earthquake, our Kilmore Street building was red-stickered. With the CBD devastated, the team moved to the local manager’s house, then to College House (a university hall of residence), and finally to an industrial building that we converted and worked from for 5 years. The Christchurch team has grown significantly since then, increasing our breadth of specialist services and working across Aotearoa, Australia, the Pacific, and beyond. Peter Cochrane, Team Leader – Principal Consultant, shares; “It’s fantastic to have a place where we can get everyone together, that has the space, technology and facilities to support different ways of working, so our people can do great work to help us create and sustain a better world.” Finding a quality space for our current roll of 150 people on a single floor was challenging, but we got there. Thank you to all involved for the seamless transition, including Patricia Stocker, Emma Jarvis, Kim Keelty, Sophie Laws, Tasha Kainuku, Megan Payne, Jan Henderson, Branco Barnes, Peter Cochrane, Noel Phillip Gomonit, Sam Price, the team at Unispace - Rachel McPherson-Parker, Vanessa Taylor, Stephanie Regan, Ben Vickers, and to Kumeroa P. and Chloe Hireme for the special mihi whakatau (welcome). We look forward to the team thriving in this new space. 

Are you ready to find your future at Tonkin + Taylor? We're thrilled to announce that our GO2025 Summer Internship Programme applications are now open! At T+T, your future is what you make of it. Whether it's about the team you work with, the purpose behind what you do, or the work-life balance you can achieve, you can find it at T+T. We're seeking enthusiastic and passionate students eager to kick-start their careers in a leading environmental and engineering consultancy. Our summer internship opportunities in New Zealand span a range of skills and specialties, including engineering, science, marketing, and digital engineering. Join T+T's summer internship programme to work with and learn from industry experts, gain hands-on experience, and set the foundation for a successful career! Visit our early careers website to hear more about how our interns, turned graduates found their purpose, team and balance at T+T. Apply through the link below: https://lnkd.in/eK565Cpf The University of Auckland AUES (Auckland University Engineering Society) Auckland University Engineering Society inc University of Canterbury ENSOC - The University of Canterbury Engineering Society Victoria University of Wellington Auckland University of Technology University of Otago The University of Waikato

Tonkin + Taylor strives to inspire sustainable futures across borders, working with local communities to create resilient and lasting impacts. This is especially important in the Pacific region where (there is a need for climate resilient infrastructure such as water and sanitation facilities. Access to clean water and sanitation is a critical service and in Funafuti, Tuvalu all water used is harvested from rain. The Funafuti Water and Sanitation project is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and to be executed by the Tuvalu Public Works Department. The project goal is to construct climate-resilient and inclusive drinking water supply infrastructure that will provide increased access to clean water and sanitation. T+T has led the geotechnical work, providing site investigation support and design services for the project. In the process, T+T have been able to call on their learnings from previous projects in Tuvalu and experience in similar ground conditions across the Pacific. Engineering Geologist - Sophie Mansell, has just returned from three weeks of geotechnical investigation in Funafuti. She shared a key highlight from her time in Funafuti, “Working and collaborating with local community members is a particular highlight of the job. Getting to contribute to a project that will fundamentally improve living standards on Funafuti and have such a positive impact on the community is incredibly rewarding”. It is a privilege to support our Pacific neighbours by using these opportunities to contribute to transformational projects that will positively impact their communities. It allows us to create and sustain a more resilient future for the Pacific.  Joshua Simmons Nathan Hickman Chris J. Freer Asian Development Bank (ADB)