25 November 2005
New Institute will tackle Auckland's Energy and Infrastructure Problems
The University of Auckland is launching the Institute of Earth Science and Engineering today to help solve key
geological and engineering problems facing the country. Auckland urban infrastructure and national energy supply are its
immediate priorities.
The Institute will have a particular focus on Auckland. The region's unique location on an isthmus and an active
volcanic field increases the likelihood that natural hazards such as earthquakes or eruptions will affect the city's
infrastructure lifelines.
A joint initiative between the Faculties of Engineering and Science, the Institute will be launched this afternoon at
the conclusion of the Underground Auckland symposium - 5.00pm, School of Engineering, 20 Symonds Street.
The Underground Auckland symposium will highlight many of the infrastructure problems which the Institute will work to
resolve, including: unstable ground and slips, Auckland's limited aggregate resources for future construction, potential
ground water contamination and storm water management.
In addition to this geotechnical research, the Institute will investigate ways to satisfy the increasing demand for
sustainable electricity. It also aims to find solutions to the alarming rise in the demand for transport fuels and hopes
to develop innovative ways to search for new petroleum reserves.
University of Auckland Vice-Chancellor Professor Stuart McCutcheon says the Institute will build on the expertise and
experience currently spread across the Faculties of Science and Engineering.
"The Institute of Earth Science and Engineering has been formed to generate the world-class research required to solve
key home grown issues.
"In New Zealand, and in particular Auckland as its largest city, we face critical issues relating to infrastructure and
energy. We need to ensure that our construction is safe and efficient, that our infrastructure lifelines are adequately
protected from natural hazards, and that the growing demand for energy is properly managed."
The University is committing $600,000 over the next two years to the Institute which will work closely with other
agencies, including the Government, local authorities, Crown Research Institutes, the private sector and overseas
research bodies.
The Institute will be managed by a Governance Board and an internationally recruited Advisory Board of industry
professionals. Advertising for the Institute's Director will begin shortly.
ENDS