9 January 2013 For Immediate Release
Earthquake Liquefaction Damage Response
Japanese Seismic Technology now in New Zealand provides Floatless Manhole technology to prevent levitation of manholes
due to liquefaction.
Hynds Limited has signed an historic partnership with Nippon Hume International Ltd in Tokyo allowing the introduction
of a retrofitted Floatless Manhole system. The system dramatically reduces earthquake damage, subsequent infrastructure
repair costs, and is easily fitted to any existing concrete manhole at risk of floating during a seismic event.
January 2012, Hynds undertook a study tour of Japan looking at Seismic resilient technologies with the intent to invest
in products that prevent infrastructure destruction, and protect people from injury.
SCIRT was then consulted to determine their needs and ensure any product development was specifically suited to the
effective rebuilding of Christchurch’s infrastructure.
A relationship with Nippon Hume International developed throughout 2012 culminating in the formation of a Floatless
Method Technical Assistance Agreement. The signing took place at the Tokyo Metropolitan Sewerage Service Corp on 10th
December 2012 and was widely reported throughout Japan. This significant occasion was attended by senior officials from
Hynds, Nippon Hume Intl Ltd, the Japan Seismic Resilience Products Council, Tokyo Metropolitan Sewerage Service
Corporation, and Nippon Koei Co Limited.
Commencing this month, Hynds will be working with local councils and designated installers to progressively introduce
this technology in to the NZ Market.
“We are very excited about our partnership with Nippon Hume International Ltd” says Aaron Hynds , signatory and Director
of Hynds Limited. “They have many technologies able to minimise damage caused by seismic activity, and we look forward
to introducing further products to prevent post-earthquake damage.”
Hynds Limited is a privately owned New Zealand manufacturer and distributor of products for the management of water and
water-based waste in the civil and rural infrastructure industry.
Established in 1973, Hynds have become leaders in the supply of innovative solutions for drainage, watermain,
environmental, industrial and rural application. The Hynds Group now consists of eight operating divisions employing 600
people throughout New Zealand and Australia.
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Senior officials from other attending companies- endorsing the Agreement
Aaron Hynds shaking hands with Minoru Okawuchi, Director of Nippon Hume International Ltd
ENDS