Expert Geotechnical Services in Auckland – Site Reports, Soil Testing & More
Down-to-earth geotechnical engineering services that ensure the safety and longevity of your next development.
Comprehensive Geotechnical Engineering Services
Shire Engineering Consultants offers expert geotechnical services in Auckland, delivering comprehensive soil testing, site analysis, and foundation recommendations for construction and development projects across New Zealand.
Geotechnical Investigations
Councils frequently mandate that applications for resource or building consent incorporate a Geotechnical Assessment Report, often known as a Geotech or Soil Report, to support the consent application. A Geotechnical Report offers a comprehensive analysis of the soil types and strengths present on the site, utilising tests such as the Shear Vane Test or Scala penetrometer testing.
In addition, the report includes essential values and necessary recommendations for the structural engineer, architect, and other professionals involved in designing and constructing the house. These reports also provide insights into the soil composition and other pertinent information, forming the basis for subsequent site inspections in later stages of the process.
Geotechnical Reports
Geotechnical reports also incorporate potential architectural blueprints, which are scrutinised and integrated with the geotechnical scoping. This facilitates a comprehensive assessment of construction-related risks, followed by recommendations for effective site stability mitigation strategies, as discussed within the reports.
Additionally, soil compaction, ground testing, and other laboratory tests may be necessary to acquire further insights into the soil's characteristics. At Shire Engineering Consultants, we're all about providing comprehensive geotechnical services, and our geotech investigations and reports are just the tip of the iceberg.
Site Stability Assessments
Suppose the site features a sloping ground (as a rule of thumb, a gradient greater than 14 degrees is considered a criterion for a sloping ground). In that case, it is necessary to conduct a slope analysis and issue a report as part of the building consent application process prior to the commencement of any earthworks or construction activities.
It is important for the engineers to thoroughly analyse the conditions of the slopes as they are known to be associated with hazards such as landslides, soil erosion, ground subsidence, and even earthquakes, all of which can impact the long-term safety, function, and inhabitability of the properties involved.
Groundwater Monitoring
Assessing groundwater levels is crucial because high or fluctuating groundwater can affect foundation stability, cause flooding, or weaken soil. Shire Engineering Consultants offers comprehensive groundwater monitoring and report services using various analysis techniques and tools tailored to site conditions.
Groundwater assessment reports serve various purposes, including confirming the groundwater regime to gain insights into soil condition and stability. We determine groundwater characteristics and anticipate how they may evolve over time and impact future developments. These reports are frequently essential for activities falling under consent E7, such as groundwater extraction, impoundment, or diversion.
Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are important because they provide crucial support to prevent soil erosion and landslides, especially on sloped or uneven terrain. For this reason, constructing retaining walls for subdivisions, extensions, excavations, site stability, landscaping, or other purposes demands meticulous design and supervision by engineering specialists.
We undertake comprehensive site investigations to assess soil conditions and site stability, incorporating stormwater and groundwater modelling where necessary. This information is used to design effective retaining wall solutions to mitigate project risks. We also offer expertise in designing various retaining walls, including timber pole retaining walls, gabion baskets, and crib walls.
Site Inspections
During the construction phase, councils typically mandate that a suitably qualified engineering professional inspect various stages of the building to ensure compliance with building and consent conditions. Numerous councils across New Zealand authorise Shire Engineering Consultants to fulfil this sign-off requirement.
Generally, Shire Engineering Consultants has already been involved in site investigations and the preparation of geotechnical reports, offering foundation and/or retaining wall design recommendations to clients and their team of structural engineers, architects, and planners (if engaged). Throughout the construction phase, the findings and recommendations outlined in the geotechnical report serve as the basis for approvals.
Additional Site-Based Inspections
In cases where another company has authored the report or their recommendations have resulted in onsite issues, Shire Engineering Consultants can be engaged to provide sign-off and recommendations to attain consent. Upon the satisfactory completion of all works, we will issue a Producer Statement (PS4) to the Council on your behalf.
Additional site-based inspection services offered include:
- Pre-purchase appraisals
- Building settlement assessment
- Land stability analysis
- Earthworks evaluation
- Retaining wall dilapidation surveys
Why Choose Our Geotechnical Services?
Local Expertise
With extensive knowledge of Auckland’s geological conditions, we provide practical, regional-specific solutions.
Advanced Technology
Using state-of-the-art equipment and software, we deliver precise analysis and innovative designs.
Experienced Team
Our team bring over 20 years of geotechnical experience, combining technical skill and practical problem-solving.
Client-Centric Approach
We tailor our services to your project’s needs, focusing on clear communication and collaboration to deliver results.
Geotechnical Services Enquiries
For reliable, expert geotechnical engineering services in Auckland and beyond, choose Shire Engineering Consultants. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements and learn how we can assist you in achieving a safe, successful development.