Department of Conservation

RFP for Rākau Rangatira Phase Two Construction

The Department of Conservation (DOC), in partnership with Te Iwi o Te Roroa, invites proposals from qualified contractors for the construction of approx. 1.5km of new boardwalk infrastructure in Waipoua Forest, Northland. This is Phase Two of the Rākau Rangatira project, aimed at safeguarding the ecological health of Waipoua Forest from the impacts of tourism at iconic sites such as Tāne Mahuta, Te Matua Ngahere, the Four Sisters, and other kauri giants.
Scope includes:
- Removal of existing boardwalk.
- Vegetation clearance in sensitive rainforest.
- Construction of new boardwalk and viewing platforms.
- Implementation of kauri dieback hygiene protocols (training provided).
The selected contractor will be accountable for delivering the entire scope of work detailed in the drawings and specifications, including the engagement and oversight of any required sub-contractors.

The preferred contractor will have prior experience in constructing high-quality, world class visitor infrastructure in remote areas, using light weight machinery to minimise environmental damage, and helicopter operations including underslung loads.

Preferred construction period: March to October 2026, though alternative timelines will be considered.

DOC will provide free accommodation at Trounson Park for the duration of construction. Further details will be shared during the mandatory online tender briefing.

IMPORTANT: Questions relating to the delivery of the contract submitted prior to the mandatory online tender briefing scheduled for 6 November 2025 may not be responded to, to ensure that all tenderers receive the same information at the same time, and to avoid questions that may be addressed during the briefing. Tenderers must register for the mandatory briefing by 12:00pm (noon) on Mon, 4 November. Registration instructions are provided in the RFP documentation.

Key dates:
Mandatory online tender briefing: Thu, 6 Nov 2025 (10:00 – 11:30am)
Optional site visit: Wed, 11 Nov 2025 (10:00 – 11:30am)
Questions close: Fri, 21 Nov 2025
Proposal deadline: Mon, 1 Dec 2025 12:00pm (Noon)
Outcome notification: Late Dec 2025 / Early Jan 2026

DOC is appointing Nominated Suppliers for key materials (MCA-treated timber and FRP mini-mesh decking) via separate RFPs. These suppliers meet project-specific requirements including lead times, unit rates, and QA standards. More details will be shared via a Notice to Tenderers.