Known to the Beca team who worked on it as Project Forrester, the 4377m2 purpose-built centre houses what is believed to be the most advanced data centre in New Zealand, and sets the benchmark for such facilities.
As a secure data facility the building was installed with industrial scale plant for HVAC, fire, electrical and back-up generator systems. This aimed to achieve operational availability of 99.995% under all conditions such as generator maintenance, failure of the local grid, or an ash storm from volcanic eruption. Stand by generators, UPS and battery back-up meant the 1000m2 data floor is designed to run independent of the grid for two weeks.
Whilst privacy and security were key requirements, environmentally sustainable initiatives were also incorporated into the design. These include solar panels, rainwater collection for non potable water, free cooling process units for data hall cooling, external stormwater swales for sediment control, low loss UPS units, high efficiency lighting and bicycle racks to encourage alternative transport.
Security was paramount, with the columnless data hall space being subject to ANZ New Zealand's stringent security requirements. These included:
- situated no nearer than 25m from any boundary
- the ability to resist a blast from a briefcase of high explosive
- to withstand a sustained 15 minute manual attack with hand tools
- to resist vehicular intrusion from all sides.
Beca Architects designed the equipment house, giving character to the external appearance while maintaining fire separation between the critical equipment and providing security guards with good vision.
Beca fostered a collaborative approach between the various parties involved in Project Forrester. Strong relationships were maintained between the client, designer and contractor throughout the project life, leading to a successful and timely delivery.