RACHELLE RAVARA
RACHELLE RAVARA
ENGINEER
Chartered structural engineer with 14 years’ experience designing new structures, conducting seismic structural assessments and designing strengthening for existing structures. As well as extensive experience in New Zealand, I’ve also worked in Singapore, Hong Kong and the Philippines.
I’m passionate about making the world a safer place to live and believe I can contribute by designing cost-effective, sustainable, buildable and robust structures.
I enjoy working together with architects and other specialists to ensure each structure works with the architecture and solving problems. Every structure is different and so I’m continually learning and developing solutions to new challenges.
You can expect me to keep your project scope and requirements at the forefront of my mind when designing your structure. I am flexible and will provide options if needed, collaborating closely with your project team to ensure your project is delivered on time and within budget. It’s important that you know the status of your project and are aware of any holdups, which is why I provide regular job status updates.
Project highlights include:
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Bupa Foxbridge Retirement Village and Care Home, Te Rapa. I designed the structures for these 4-storey apartment and 3-storey care facility buildings, which are seismically separated. I worked closely, and built strong relationships, with the client, the architect and the other consultants.
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2-16 Wakefield Street, Auckland CBD. This involved a detailed seismic assessment and construction observations required for the strengthening design of this existing 18-storey reinforced concrete building to 100%NBS. I collaborated closely with the contractors and other service providers to ensure that the solutions we provided were buildable and structurally sound. During the construction stage, I quickly resolved issues that were uncovered once the building was opened up.
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Mason Apartments Stage 2 (Blocks 4 & 5), Otahuhu, Auckland. My tasks involved designing the structures and undertaking construction monitoring for two 4-storey apartment buildings. I worked directly with the client, providing them with options and being flexible. I also provided solutions to issues that arose on site, developing a good working relationship with both the client and contractor.
Qualifications:
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Chartered Professional Engineer, New Zealand
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International Professional Engineer
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Master of Science in Civil Engineering (Structures)
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Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
HANS WANG
HANS WANG
ENGINEER
Senior structural engineer with over 17 years’ experience designing residential, commercial, and innovative structures in New Zealand and China. These include stadia, high-rise towers, low to medium rise apartment blocks, retail and industrial buildings, long-span pedestrian bridges and sculptures. I also have an in-depth knowledge of earthquake engineering.
You can expect me to develop practical structural solutions for your project. I will simplify the design to minimise mistakes, and make it easy to consent, build and maintain. My approach is collaborative – I build strong working relationships with other project parties, sharing ideas and working together to resolve any issues that may arise.
I’ve worked with a range of materials including pre-cast concrete and aluminium, but the materials I most enjoy designing with are structural steel and timber as these materials allow me to develop creative solutions to connect the various elements together.
Project highlights include:
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Designing an 8-storey volumetric modular apartment in Wellington. This building comprises 80 prefabricated modules stacked “LEGO like’’ on a steel frame podium. This innovative structural system is the first of its kind in highly seismic reactive regions. The system dissipates energy during seismic events without damaging the modules. I standardised all the modules to make fabricating, transporting, and erecting them easy. Due to the limited access for the connections, I developed serval complicated steel connections to ensure structural robustness and quick installation.
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Designing 36 metre span mass timber beams for Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Sydney. These are the longest free-spanning mass timber beams in Australasia. Each beam comprises two 1.8m deep glue laminated beams in parallel, connected by one CLT panel to form a composite section. This helps to develop strength and stiffness. To ship the beams, I designed them in 12 metre composite sections. Joints were concealed and were easy for the contractor to construct on site. Each finished beam looks like a single piece of timber.
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Designing a 10-metre-tall tree sculpture at Auckland Museum. This involved working with both the museum and the artist to bring his vision to life cost-effectively and creating an unconventional shape using conventional timber materials.
Qualifications:
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Bachelor of Engineering in Structural Engineering
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Chartered Member of Engineering New Zealand
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Chartered Professional Engineer, New Zealand
JENEEVAN GUNABALASINGAM
JENEEVAN GUNABALASINGAM
ENGINEER
Structural engineer with 11 years’ experience in residential, commercial and industrial buildings, temporary structures, infrastructure and oil & gas projects in Singapore and New Zealand. I’ve primarily worked with concrete and structural steel but, since moving to New Zealand, have started designing timber structures.
I’m passionate about learning and overcoming challenges, which is what led me to pursue structural engineering as a career. I enjoy solving problems and seeing my work brought to life in the form of a finished structure.
A good listener, you can expect me to understand your objectives and key drivers and to deliver a design that meets your needs. I can draw on my experience designing different types of structures to produce designs that will work for your particular project.
Project highlights include:
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Working on a 3-storey residential building. This has given me the opportunity to work with timber and to learn about seismic design.
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Lead structural engineer for two high rise (20+ storey) apartment buildings. These involved precast, prefabricated, volumetric construction. I worked closely with the client and the wider team to design the structure and bring these buildings to life.
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Early in my career, I designed structures for oil & gas plants. My role involved coordinating with other engineering disciplines designs. It was a great learning experience.
Qualifications:
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Master of Science in Civil Engineering
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Bachelor of Science in Engineering with Honours - Minor in Structural Engineering
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Chartered member of Engineering New Zealand
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Chartered Engineer (CEng) of Engineering Council (UK)
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Member (MISTRUCTE) of the Institution of Structural Engineers (UK)
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Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting - Chartered Institute of Management Accountants – UK
JOAN FARRES-RABANAL
JOAN FARRES-RABANAL
ENGINEER
Senior Structural Engineer, with more than 15 years’ experience in New Zealand and Spain. I have designed a wide range of structures - from commercial and high-end residential buildings to bridges, foundations, car parks and underground structures - as well as computer modelling, seismic strengthening design and construction monitoring of reinforced concrete, structural steel and timber structures.
I provide construction observation services for the Structure Design team on residential and commercial projects in Queenstown and its surroundings. This involves ensuring that all jobs are successfully completed and meet the highest design and construction standards. I also contribute my expertise to designing structures for high-end residential design projects.
I take immense pleasure in leveraging my expertise as a structural engineer to contribute to the creation of high-end residential homes. The process of designing these exceptional spaces allows me to blend creativity with precision engineering, ensuring that each project stands as a testament to both aesthetic excellence and structural integrity. I enjoy developing innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges, transforming architectural visions into tangible, resilient structures.
My passion extends beyond the design phase, as I go on-site to oversee the engineering components throughout the construction process. This ensures that the design intent is seamlessly translated into reality. It's immensely rewarding to witness the evolution of a project from concept to completion and to be hands-on in addressing any engineering intricacies that may arise during construction. This hands-on involvement underscores my commitment to delivering not just designs, but fully realized, structurally sound masterpieces.
If you work with me you can expect a collaborative and communicative approach throughout the entire project lifecycle. I prioritize understanding your unique vision and requirements, ensuring that the final result not only meets, but exceeds, your expectations. My commitment to transparent communication and attention to detail fosters a positive and productive working relationship.
Work highlights:
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Designing bridge structures for high-speed trains in Spain: During the early stages of my career, I had the privilege of designing multiple bridge structures to support high-speed trains throughout Spain. These critical infrastructure projects, catering to the daily transportation needs of thousands, provided a solid foundation for my engineering expertise. The intricacies of designing for the dynamics of high-speed trains proved invaluable as I transitioned to my career in New Zealand, particularly in adapting to seismic design challenges.
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Observing the construction of Shotover Primary School’s IL1 building: I oversaw the construction of the Shotover Primary School's IL1 building for AECOM, implementing rigorous construction observation processes. This project holds a special place in my heart as it is the school my own children attend. Ensuring smooth communication and client satisfaction, I take pride in contributing to the educational environment that impacts the lives of many young students in our community.
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Designing and observing the construction of multi-level high-end residences in Queenstown: Designing and observing the construction of multi-level high-end residences on the picturesque slopes of Queenstown Hill has been a truly gratifying experience. These residences, characterized by intricate retaining structures, precast concrete panels, and steel frameworks, showcase my commitment to maximizing the stunning views of Wakatipu Lake. Each project not only enhances the architectural landscape of Queenstown, but also reflects my passion for creating homes that seamlessly integrate with the natural beauty of their surroundings.
Qualifications:
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Master’s Degree in Structural Engineering. Polytechnic University of Barcelona, Spain
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Bachelor of Science in Physics. University of Barcelona, Spain
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Member of Structural Engineering Society New Zealand (SESOC)
JOHN PFLUKE
JOHN PFLUKE
ENGINEER
As a Structural Engineer with over a decade of experience, I have had the privilege of designing a diverse array of structures across New Zealand and Europe. My passion lies in finding innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges, ensuring that our designs are meticulously thought through and seamlessly coordinated with the entire design team – embracing the philosophy of “measure twice, cut once.”
The aspect of my work I find most rewarding is collaborating closely with architects and builders to deliver exceptional results for our clients. I have led numerous projects, ensuring that each one meets the highest standards of design and construction. My expertise allows me to blend creativity with precision engineering, transforming architectural visions into resilient, tangible structures.
My commitment extends beyond the design phase; I am deeply involved in overseeing the on-site engineering components throughout the construction process. This hands-on approach ensures that the design intent is faithfully translated into reality, addressing any engineering intricacies that arise. Witnessing a project evolve from concept to completion is immensely rewarding, and I take pride in delivering fully realized, structurally sound masterpieces.
When you work with me, you can expect a collaborative and communicative approach throughout the entire project lifecycle. I prioritize understanding your unique vision and requirements, striving to exceed your expectations. My dedication to transparent communication and meticulous attention to detail fosters a positive and productive working relationship.
Work highlights:
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Te Kura O Matapihi, Tauranga - Design and construction observation of a new multipurpose teaching spacing. Designed to meet Ministry of Education’s requirements.
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Port of Tauranga - Various projects including seismic assessment and upgrade of existing buildings, and design of new infrastructure for the port.
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Hato Hone St John, Waihi - Design of a new ambulance station. The building is single storey with an IL3 rating.
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Trevelyans Pack and Cool Ltd, Te Puke- Design of two new cool stores with a total plan area of over 2500m2.
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St Peters Hall, Hamilton - Design of the seismic strengthening for a Heritage New Zealand listed timber framed 1890’s church hall.
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Fonterra, Hawera, Taranaki - Construction management for the refurbishment of their P5 milk powder facility.
International Projects:
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Design of new offices for an energy provider based in Dresden, Germany.
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Design of temporary structures for the Floating University in Berlin, Germany.
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Contributed to the design of the new 1 Leadenhall skyscraper for Brookfield-Multiplex in London, UK.
Qualifications:
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Member of Engineering New Zealand (MEngNZ)
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Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) (Honours), University of Auckland
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Member of New Zealand Structural Engineering Society (SESOC)