With Auckland’s transport network rapidly evolving, Kinetic needed speed of delivery to match their operational demands.
Kinetic engaged DGE to deliver a fully operational bus storage yard and depot at New Lynn, with one major challenge: There was no existing infrastructure, and the site needed to be operational within weeks.
Starting from a bare concrete site with no power, water, or supporting services, DGE was tasked with designing and building the entire electrical and supporting infrastructure.
What followed was a fast-tracked, all-in design & build delivery that transformed an empty site into a fully functioning depot, ready to support Kinetic’s bus operations in just over four weeks.
The Challenge
Building from Zero
The site started as little more than a concrete slab, with no power, lighting, or supporting infrastructure.
At the same time, Kinetic’s operational deadline was fixed. The depot needed to be ready… fast.
This meant:
• Designing the entire electrical system in real time
• Procuring materials under tight lead times
• Delivering construction and installation concurrently
There was no traditional sequence; there was just a clear outcome and a deadline.
More Than an Electrical Project
As delivery progressed, the scope expanded beyond electrical works.
To make the site fully operational, DGE took on:
• Lighting infrastructure across the yard (14 x 12m poles)
• Civil trenching, ducting, and underground services
• Concrete works and pole foundations
• Water supply and drainage
• Line marking and traffic flow
• Ground levelling and safety barriers
What began as an electrical project quickly became a complete site delivery.
Adapting on the Ground
With pressure on the programme and resources, the team continuously adapted to maintain momentum.
• Alternative installation methods were used when equipment wasn’t available
• Ground conditions were corrected during construction
• Temporary power was established via a generator to keep progress moving
It was a hands-on, solutions-first approach, focused on keeping the job moving, no matter what.
Our Solution
DGE delivered a coordinated, end-to-end solution, combining design, delivery, and on-site problem-solving.
Rapid Design & Delivery
• Developed and implemented the full electrical design on the fly
• Installed temporary power generation to energise the site
• Delivered switchboard and full yard reticulation
• Completed site-wide lighting installation
Integrated Site Works
DGE delivered a complete site solution, including:
• Civil trenching and ducting
• Installation of 14 x 12m light poles across the yard
• Concrete works, including slabs and pole foundations
• Drainage and wastewater solutions
• Water supply installation from the street
• Line marking and traffic flow planning
• Temporary safety barriers and ground levelling
By integrating these elements, DGE reduced delays and maintained control of the programme.
Partner-Led Approach
Speed required the right people.
DGE engaged trusted partners early, coordinating civil works and specialist tasks while maintaining clear communication with Kinetic throughout the project.
This ensured alignment, accountability, and pace across all moving parts.
Built for What’s Next
Although delivered under urgency, the site was prepared for future upgrades.
• Allowances made for permanent power infrastructure
• Electrical layout designed for scalability
• Temporary systems positioned for seamless transition
Sustainability & Innovation
While not technology-heavy, this project highlights a different kind of innovation, delivery under pressure.
By enabling the rapid deployment of transport infrastructure, DGE supported:
• Immediate operational capacity for public transport
• Future transition to upgraded electrical systems
• Scalable infrastructure aligned with long-term network growth
The Outcome
In just four weeks, DGE delivered a fully operational bus depot and storage yard from a standing start.
Beyond Electrical Scope
As the project evolved, the scope extended well beyond electrical works.
This became a full infrastructure delivery, not just an electrical installation.
• Full yard lighting across the depot
• Operational power infrastructure
• Safe, functional bus movement layout
• Supporting civil and utility systems
Delivered on time, despite evolving scope and constraints, a result driven by teamwork, adaptability, and a commitment to getting the job done.
From empty site to operational depot in just over four weeks.
“It was about attitude. Finding a way to get it done, every day.”
Tony Dickson – Project Manager, Director
