Ventia was honoured to win the Excellence in Asset Management category at the 2025 IPWEA Awards in Auckland recently.

This prestigious recognition highlights Ventia’s application of ISO 55001 certified asset management practices in its operations and maintenance (O&M) role on Te Aranui o Te Rangihaeata -  Transmission Gully Motorway, one of the largest transport infrastructure projects in New Zealand. 

This achievement reflects the commitment of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) to managing and maintaining the road and ensuring it is safe, efficient, and reliable. This is supported by Ventia’s commitment to operational excellence.

The significance of ISO 55001 in asset management

ISO 55001 is an international standard for asset management, providing a structured framework for managing assets throughout their lifecycle. For Ventia, achieving ISO 55001 certification was not just about meeting a standard; it was about embedding a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in asset management. This certification ensures that Ventia’s asset management practices are aligned with the highest global standards, leading to improved performance, reliability, and efficiency of the Transmission Gully Motorway.

The motorway provides important regional resilience and a safe, modern, reliable route to and from Wellington. On behalf of NZTA, Ventia’s responsibilities as the O&M contractor include:

  • Asset management: Ensuring the motorway’s assets are maintained in a safe, reliable, and available condition.
  • Proactive and preventative maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance to prevent issues before they arise.
  • Seismic monitoring and management: Implementing measures to monitor and manage the motorway’s resilience to seismic activity.
  • Environmental management: Ensuring that all operations are conducted in an environmentally sensitive manner, reflecting the ecological importance of the area.

Achieving excellence through innovation

Ventia’s approach to asset management on the Transmission Gully Motorway is characterised by the integration of advanced technologies. These innovations include:

  • Drones: Used for aerial inspections, providing high-resolution images and real-time monitoring of the motorway’s condition.
  • LiDAR technology: Creating detailed 3D maps of the terrain to aid in maintenance planning and environmental compliance.
  • InSAR technology: Monitoring ground movement and structural stability through radar images.
  • Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR): Investigating subsurface conditions to identify potential issues.
  • Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD): Evaluating the structural capacity of the pavement.
  • These technologies enable Ventia to maintain the motorway efficiently and sustainably, ensuring long-term asset performance and safety.

Ventia’s recognition at the 2025 IPWEA Awards highlights the company’s commitment to excellence in asset management through the application of ISO 55001. Congratulations to everyone involved in the project and to all the winners and finalists recognised on the night.