Mt Messenger Alliance commends Geovert as a trusted delivery partner
Geovert’s 25th anniversary celebrations began with a visit to the ongoing project at Mt Messenger, where we received a letter of reference from the Te Ara o Te Ata Mt Messenger Alliance, the partnership of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Downer, HEB Construction, WSP and Tonkin + Taylor delivering the Mt Messenger Bypass in Taranaki. Project Director Dale Burtenshaw presented it to Geovert CEO Anthony Teen on the alliance’s behalf, recognising our “outstanding contribution to the ongoing delivery” of the project.
The project
Te Ara o Te Ata Mt Messenger Bypass is a new 6 km section of State Highway 3 in North Taranaki, running between Uruti and Ahititi. It replaces the steep, narrow and winding road over Mt Messenger with a lower, less steep route that includes two bridges and a 235m tunnel. The aim is to improve safety and resilience for people travelling to and from the region.
In the alliance’s words, the project traverses
“a complex and environmentally sensitive landscape characterised by steep slopes, difficult access conditions and significant geotechnical constraints.”
Geovert was engaged to deliver slope stabilisation across multiple work fronts, managing geological hazards so that construction can proceed safely around them.
Our work on the bypass
As of 1 October 2026, the alliance records approximately 11,296 m of drilling and more than 23,700 m² of slope stabilisation systems installed by Geovert. That area comprises 17,267 m² of drape mesh, 3,766 m² of active mesh and 2,724 m² of Geobrugg GREENAX.
Each system does a different job. Drape mesh controls loose rock as it falls, guiding it to the base of the slope. Active mesh is tensioned and anchored to the slope to hold the surface in place. GREENAX combines steel mesh with an erosion control mat, protecting the surface while vegetation establishes.
The letter notes that throughout this work, Geovert
“has consistently demonstrated a high level of technical expertise, innovation and professionalism in delivering these critical works.”
Safety record
Across more than 71,730 hours worked on the project, our team has recorded no medical treatment injuries and no lost time injuries. In the alliance’s words, this
“reflects a strong safety culture, robust planning processes and a commitment to protecting their personnel and the wider project team.”
The alliance goes on to say:
“Geovert’s commitment to safety, quality, technical excellence and collaboration has consistently added value to the project and established them as a trusted delivery partner.”
Marking 25 years
Presenting the letter at our 25th anniversary celebration, the alliance also noted that
“reaching 25 years in business is a testament to the technical expertise, commitment to safety, quality workmanship, and strong client relationships that Geovert has built throughout the industry.”
Our thanks to Dale for presenting the letter in person, to Alliance Board Chair Darryl Coalter, Jackson Tilley, Shane Jacoby and the rest of the construction team with whom we work closely on site. The biggest thanks, of course, go to our crews at Mt Messenger, whose professionalism has earned this recognition.
At the same celebration, the project presented us with a cutting pick from the roadheader that excavated the tunnel. Read more here - link
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