When Macleans College set out to build a brand-new technology block, they were designing more than just a facility—they were creating a hands-on, modern learning environment that would inspire the next generation of tradespeople and innovators. As part of this ambitious development, AtSource was engaged to design, supply, and commission a dust extraction system tailored specifically for their new wood workshop, along with electrical cable reels to support safe and flexible power delivery across multipurpose teaching spaces.
Located in Auckland’s Eastern Beach, the educational facility required a robust, purpose-built solution that would meet both safety and functionality standards for a busy secondary school workshop. The project kicked off with a quote in February 2019 and culminated in the commissioning of the system in November 2020.
Identifying the Need: A Safe and Adaptable Learning Environment
Macleans College was focused on more than just outfitting a new workshop—they were committed to creating a safe, modern space that gave students real-world experience with the kind of systems used in industry. The key challenge was designing a solution that not only maintained healthy air quality during woodworking activities but also supported the flexible, multipurpose layout of the technology block.
To meet these goals, the school needed an extraction and electrical setup that was high-performing, futureproof, and visually cohesive. With safety and functionality as top priorities, they looked for a provider who could deliver more than just equipment—they needed engineering expertise, compliance assurance, and a reliable support network.
AtSource supplied a fully engineered system centred around the AutoMZ 60 Dust Extraction Unit with CARZ Isolation Valve and a NF 7.5kW Fan, offering powerful, efficient extraction. The system was complemented by modular ducting (see our Quick Fit by Nordfab Modular Ducting), which not only created a clean, professional finish but also allowed for easy future reconfiguration—ideal for a teaching space where machinery might be rearranged over time. For electrical supply, Nederman C20 Electrical Cable Reels were installed, providing safe, tidy, and adaptable access to power.
While our pricing was higher than some competitors, Macleans College trusted AtSource’s local expertise, reliable product range, and experience delivering safe, compliant systems for schools. The solution was built to comply with all relevant Ministry of Education Guidelines, industry standards, and Nederman safety recommendations—ensuring a robust, long-term outcome the school could rely on.
Collaboration and Compliance: Navigating Project Requirements
Although AtSource was engaged for the design, supply, and commissioning only, successful delivery of the Macleans College wood workshop system relied on seamless coordination between multiple stakeholders. These included the school itself, the main contractor, the mechanical contractor (AirMark Services Ltd) responsible for installation, and the mechanical consulting company (MEPS Building Engineers Services) overseeing design integration.
While AtSource wasn’t involved in the physical installation, our team worked closely with the mechanical contractors and consultants to ensure all components were delivered to spec and aligned with the overall project timeline. One of the defining aspects of this project was its strict adherence to Ministry of Education requirements, which shaped everything from system layout to safety design. These standards are specifically tailored to educational environments, requiring robust solutions that are not only high-performing but also safe for student use.
By maintaining close communication with all parties and drawing on our experience working with schools, AtSource helped ensure the final installation was compliant, durable, and well-suited to the modern learning environment Macleans College set out to create.
Results That Last: Cleaner Air, Safer Spaces, and Future Flexibility
Since commissioning, the wood workshop at Macleans College has benefited from a significantly cleaner, safer environment—an essential outcome in a space designed for hands-on learning. Teachers and students alike now work in a healthier setting, with improved air quality thanks to the performance of the AutoMZ 60 Dust Extraction Unit and supporting system components. The addition of C20 Electrical Cable Reels has further enhanced safety and usability, offering a tidy, retractable power solution that keeps cables off the floor and reduces trip hazards.
Beyond the immediate benefits, the school has also seen the value of a system designed with flexibility in mind. As classroom layouts have naturally evolved to support changing teaching needs, several extraction points now require relocation. Thanks to the installation of modular ducting (see our Quick Fit by Nordfab Modular Ducting), these adjustments can be made quickly and with minimal disruption—futureproofing the workshop and ensuring the system can adapt as the space continues to develop.
A Successful Collaboration with Lasting Impact
For AtSource, the Macleans College project fell well within familiar territory. With extensive experience delivering extraction systems for educational facilities, our team was confident navigating the unique requirements laid out by the Ministry of Education—from system safety and durability to the design of adaptable learning spaces. That depth of experience ensured a smooth process from specification through to commissioning, and ultimately, a system that continues to perform reliably.
As always, we continue to look ahead. Working closely with global suppliers like Nederman means we’re well-positioned to bring the latest innovations to the New Zealand market—something we see as essential in keeping our solutions at the forefront of both safety and efficiency.
By all measures, the project has been a success. The system functions exactly as intended, and both the client and consulting team were pleased with the outcome. Ongoing service visits are scheduled every six months to keep the system operating at peak performance, and with modular ducting (see our Quick Fit by Nordfab Modular Ducting), in place, any future changes to the layout—such as re-routing ducting—can be carried out quickly and cost-effectively.