Developing an online map-based library
We’ve developed a data-sharing platform combining the subsurface infrastructure owned by the Council and other utility operators on an online map. As it develops over time, it will contain information found from excavation, contextual geospatial data such as contaminated sites, landslide locations, earthquake-prone buildings, and archaeological sites of significance to Māori and our city’s history. This underground asset register is often referred to as a subsurface digital twin.
The aim is to move away from legacy records and outdated paper processes held across many locations to a federated online map-based library. Using data federation software, a copy of the latest information from each asset owner – even though they are in various formats – can be combined onto a single online data-sharing platform.
We're building a system and its supporting compliance policies in conjunction with the infrastructure sector that can eventually be scaled up for the whole of Aotearoa.
We'll work with central government, local government, utilities, and the wider sector to achieve this aim.
The benefits of change
There are real benefits to establishing an underground asset data platform that everyone working in the sector can access 24/7, 365 days a year.
It brings about a major change in our understanding of the subsurface environment, and over time yields wide economic benefits in areas of growth, resilience, asset management and infrastructure programme risk. It also helps to reduce the risk of service strikes and the risk of harm to workers.
The core economic case is focused on the benefits which accrue to project-level delivery. This means more efficient design of infrastructure, improved planning and coordination, reduction in the time required for construction, reduced risk (cost and time impacts) and contingency planning.
Input from the Technical Reference Group
A Technical Reference Group has been formed so representatives of the infrastructure sector can guide and test the register as it develops toward the goal of being the single trusted source of all underground asset information.
The group includes members of the civil contracting, utility, surveying, locating, design engineering, geographic information systems, urban development, archaeology, road construction and maintenance organisations.
Their feedback during the initial design and functionality stage of the underground asset register informed the Wellington pilot system that is currently in use. The group will help update future iterations, so we end up with the best, most accurate online register.
To find out more, watch our video: