Gen-i developing Christchurch data centre
Gen-i will partner with Christchurch International Airport Limited (CIAL) and Canterbury-based Data Center Design and Build Limited (DCDB) to deliver its new $10.5 million data center in Christchurch.
The new partnership will provide the ICT provider with a premium data center location on the Christchurch International Airport campus, through a lease agreement with landowner CIAL, who will also construct the building to Gen-i specifications.
Gen-i says DCDB will contribute specialist data center mechanical and electrical design and fit-out services, including testing and commissioning of the new facility to ensure it meets functional requirements.
Built to the latest building code and seismic standards on a site at Perimeter Road, the new centre's location was chosen for its geological stability relative to the wider Christchurch area.
“Gen-i is a key strategic partner for information technology across the airport campus, so it is a pleasure to have them located alongside us as well," says Jim Boult, CIAL CEO.
The new 1000m facility is due to open in mid-2013, being carrier neutral and possessing a capacity to house up to 180 racks across two data halls.
“We are pleased to be playing a key role in the development of Gen-i’s new data center," says Ian Falconer, DCDB director.
"We provided the initial concept design and have worked closely with Gen-i to complete the full building and fit out design.
"Our focus is on ensuring the new data center will be as energy efficient as possible, while maintaining industry standards of resilience for the power and cooling supply.”
Enabling clients to take advantage of ICT applications and services that leverage the rollout of UFB, Gen-i’s hopes the development will help expand the existing nationwide network of 14 data centers in cities and regional centres, linked by fibre, copper and mobile networks.
The new data center will complement Gen-i’s two existing Christchurch sites in Hereford Street and Hillmorton, helping to meet increased demand from clients looking to relocate their infrastructure to Gen-i data centers.
“We’re particularly pleased to be partnering with local businesses CIAL and DCDB to deliver this critical piece of infrastructure for Christchurch,” says Jo Allison, Acting CEO of Gen-i Australasia.
“The new data center reflects our ongoing commitment to helping Canterbury businesses re-build, and realise the benefits of the new fibre and mobile networks.”
“Exciting new ICT services such as cloud, mobility, video and collaboration are particularly relevant to Canterbury businesses needing to find new ways of connecting with their staff and customers in a post-quake environment.
“By advising clients on the best mix of fibre, copper and mobile networks, we can ensure they get the best value from their existing assets and these new fibre-based products and services."
