Riding High With Success
Design and innovation sees MWH Global bring New Zealand closer to its nature

Wellington, New Zealand., October 16, 2012 - The unique design of the Franz Josef Glacier cycling and walking tracks, located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, means MWH Global has scooped the New Zealand Local Authority Traffic Institute (TRAFINZ) award for Leadership in Sustainability.

Praised by both cyclist and walkers the tracks provide safer access whilst allowing users to soak up the stunning environment.

TRAFINZ President, Andy Foster says, “The project demonstrates excellent leadership by MWH, with innovative design and construction methods. This has resulted in a high quality end product that greatly enhances the visitor experience. It’s fun!”

The Department of Conservation engaged MWH to design the tracks, making them New Zealand’s first shared walking and cycling facility set within a National Park.

MWH Designer, Andrew McDonald, puts the success of the project down to the accomplishment of seamlessly merging modern innovative design with an aged natural environment.

“The effect is like a carpet being rolled out over the forest floor; it just looks and feels right because all of the design components work together. The track alignment creates a flow which means no long boring straight sections, making it a brilliant experience for all who use it.”

The tracks are described by well-known cycling author Jonathan Kennett as “simply the most stunning cycle paths built in New Zealand” and earlier this year picked up the Best Cycle Facility Award at the 2012 Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) Cycle Friendly Awards.

The Franz Josef and Fox glacier access tracks were opened by the Department of Conservation (DOC) in September 2010 and February 2011 respectively. The Franz Josef track is accessed from the glacier road and is approximately 2 km long finishing at the glacier car park. The Fox track is more extensive providing approximately 3.2 km of track which is accessed via the state highway 100 m south of the Fox Township. This track also finishes at the glacier car park.

About MWH
MWH Global is a strategic consulting, technical engineering and construction services firm leading the wet infrastructure sector. Offering a full range of services and innovative, award-winning solutions beginning in the initial planning phases through construction and asset management, we partner with our clients in multiple industries to implement projects and programs that focus on water, energy, natural resources and infrastructure. Our 7,500 employees in 35 countries spanning six continents are dedicated to fulfilling our purpose of Building a Better World, which reflects our commitment to sustainable development. MWH is a private, employee-owned firm with a rich legacy beginning in 1820. For more information, visit our website at www.mwhglobal.com.

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