Cold Storage

Project Details

Foodstuffs Autofreeze is a landmark cold storage facility in Christchurch, designed to increase refrigerated capacity for Foodstuffs South Island by 200%. Delivered under a design and build model, the 2,300m² facility was completed in July 2025, with Apollo leading the design and construction in close collaboration with Foodstuffs.

The project faced significant infrastructure and environmental challenges, including major power shutdowns and a 12-hour cut to the CO₂ refrigeration plant to enable pipe bridge alterations. Midway through, the team cut into the existing freezer to install rapid-rise doors, requiring structural steel modifications within a live cold environment.

Sustainability was a key focus, with 340 solar panels installed across 800m² of roof space. The refrigeration system uses ammonia and CO₂, with propylene glycol as the heating fluid, an efficient and environmentally conscious setup.

Standout features include a fully automated racking system that eliminates the need for human presence in the freezer, a hypoxic fire protection system that maintains oxygen levels below 15%, and an 18-metre ammonia tower stack for safe gas exhaust. The cold store operates at -22°C and accommodates 6,000 pallets.

Despite the risks, Apollo maintained strong client relationships and ensured uninterrupted operations throughout this significant project.