Renovation of the Waikato Regional Theatre

The iconic Waikato Regional Theatre is back, bigger, bolder, and ready to shine. Rising from the legacy of the Founders Theatre, closed in 2016 due to seismic issues, the new venue combines heritage with a modern design, keeping the historic façade proudly intact. The $80-million transformation will revitalise the cultural precinct in the heart of Hamilton combining world-class performance spaces, commercial and hospitality fitouts, and inviting public areas.

Applications

Decks Roofs Capping beams Footings Ground beams Lift pits Piles Slabs Walls

Products

Volclay Voltex Volclay Swelltite Bitumen Membranes Warm Roof system

Sector

Commercial

Project requirements

The Waikato Regional Theatre required extensive waterproofing solutions, from its deep foundations to the multiple roof structures above. The large below-ground zone, spanning two full levels and an orchestra pit, sits under hydrostatic pressure, making complete waterproof encapsulation essential.

Above ground, the theatre features three distinct roof areas, most notably the soaring fly tower, positioned directly over the stage, the tower houses the intricate system of ropes and pulleys that power scene changes, while the auditorium roof incorporates specialised soundproofing materials to deliver an exceptional acoustic experience.

Allco Solution

Allco was the preferred waterproofing supplier with our comprehensive range of waterproofing systems covering every aspect of the project, from the fully encapsulated below-ground structures to the complex roofing requirements above.

Below Ground: The entire foundation including the 2 below ground levels were fully encapsulated with over 5,000m2 of our Volclay Voltex membrane.

Podium Roof: The podium cold roof over the plaza and courtyard areas were waterproofed with our Casali bitumen two-layer torch on membrane and the sections above the atrium and commercial areas were completed using our the Allco ALLTHERM Warm Roof.

Auditorium Roof: The roof over the auditorium was also completed using our the Allco ALLTHERM Warm Roof with Casali bitumen membrane and an extra layer of Rockwool incorporated into the build-up. This engineered solution specific for the auditorium roof provided the extra sound proofing required.

The Fly Tower: At the highest point of the theatre, the fly tower required special attention due to the specialty equipment housed below. The Allco ALLTHERM Warm Roof was also the ideal solution utilising the Casali two-layer bitumen membranes.

Execution and Outcomes: 

The below ground waterproofing was expertly installed by CCR Waterproofing and overseen by the Allco Technical Advisory team. This installation, coupled with the early involvement of Allco’s technical team and Jasmax architectural designers, meant this project was eligible for our comprehensive System Warranty, covering both the product and its installation for 20 years.

The roofing areas were skilfully carried out by Cantec Services Hamilton with on-site support from our Technical Advisory team. The benefit of using the Allco ALLTHERM Warm Roof solution over internal areas provides significant thermal advantages creating thermal efficiencies and keeping the building warmer in winter and cooler in summer as well as complete watertightness.

The Allco team is proud to have played a role in this culturally significant project, working hand-in-hand with Jasmax architects, Fosters Construction, and our skilled applicators. Through close collaboration and ongoing support, we helped ensure the project achieved its vision, delivering an outcome worthy of its importance to the Waikato community.