Scaffolding Spotlight
- Aug 4
- 2 min read
When people think about construction, they often picture cranes, concrete and structural steel. Yet one of the most important elements on any project is often the least noticed – the scaffolding that enables every trade to work safely and efficiently.
On the Te Kete project MCLStead has partnered with local Māori-owned company Kahu Scaffolding, who are delivering the majority of the project's scaffolding requirements.
You may remember Kahu Scaffolding from our August 2025 project update, where we introduced the team and highlighted their role on the project. Since then, their work has continued to evolve alongside the build.
Office Tower
Kahu Scaffolding’s first major challenge was the office tower, where specialist cantilever scaffolding was installed from the upper levels of the building. This complex system provided safe access for the installation of structural steel, roofing elements and gutters, allowing work to progress while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Some key facts:
The scaffold was constructed using alloy trusses and a ring lock system, forming the full perimeter on the top floor.
The scaffold took four days to erect and two days to dismantle.
Approximately 10 tonnes of scaffolding was installed.
Library
Attention has now turned to the new library, where Kahu Scaffolding is installing the next phase of scaffolding to support construction as the building continues to take shape.
This stage presents its own unique challenges and demonstrates how scaffold design is tailored to suit each building, providing safe access while adapting to changing construction activities.
Some key facts:
The scaffold incorporates a ring lock system, along with specialist components including propping, loading bays and stair accesses towers.
More than 30 tonnes of scaffolding has been installed.
Craneable propping scaffolds are designed to be lifted into place as construction progresses.
Behind every façade panel, roof installation and finishing trade is an intricate scaffold system that allows construction to happen safely. It's one of those parts of a project that rarely gets noticed, yet it plays a critical role in bringing building projects like Te Kete to life.
Take a look through the drawings and video below to see the scale, precision and expertise behind Kahu Scaffolding's work on the new library.
