Professional Drainage Solutions | Nelson & Tasman Region

Water damage costs New Zealand property owners millions each year. A properly engineered drainage system isn't an expense – it's protection for your biggest asset.

The real cost of poor drainage

We've seen what happens when drainage is treated as an afterthought. Foundation repairs can run into tens of thousands. Retaining walls fail prematurely. Driveways crack and subside. What starts as a small puddle becomes a major structural issue.

Smart property owners invest in proper drainage before problems develop. It's the difference between a $5,000 drainage system and a $50,000 foundation repair.

Drainage solutions we deliver

• Stormwater Management Systems: Engineered to handle our region's weather patterns, from heavy winter rains to summer downpours. We calculate capacity based on your property's catchment area and runoff coefficients.
• Subsoil Drainage (French Drains): Perforated pipe systems in gravel trenches that intercept groundwater before it becomes a problem. Essential for properties with high water tables or clay soils.
• Surface Water Channels: Precisely graded swales and channels that move water efficiently without erosion. We design these to blend with your landscaping while maintaining proper flow rates.
• Soakpit & Detention Systems: Council-compliant solutions for managing stormwater on-site. We handle the calculations, consents, and installation to current standards.
• Retaining Wall Drainage: Critical back-of-wall systems using drainage metal and geotextile fabric. Proper installation doubles the life expectancy of your walls.
• Agricultural Drainage: Paddock and orchard drainage systems designed for productivity. We understand the balance between drainage and soil moisture retention.

Our drainage process

1. Site analysis that matters

We assess slope gradients, soil permeability, existing water flow patterns, and catchment areas. This isn't guesswork – it's engineering. We identify where water comes from, where it needs to go, and the most efficient path between.

2. Design with purpose

Every system is designed to handle your property's specific challenges. Clay soils need different solutions than free-draining gravels. Coastal properties face different issues than hillside sections. We factor in future development plans too – no point installing drainage that you'll need to redo next year.

3. Quality installation

Drainage fails when corners are cut. We use proper pipe grades (minimum 1:100 for surface water), quality fittings, and correct backfill materials. Our team understands that a drainage system is only as good as its weakest point.

Why property owners choose us

Technical expertise

We understand hydraulics, not just how to dig trenches. Our solutions are based on engineering principles, local council requirements, and decades of experience with Nelson-Tasman's unique conditions.

Long-term thinking

A drainage system should last 20+ years with minimal maintenance. We design and build for longevity, using materials and methods that stand up to our climate and soil conditions.

Integrated approach

Drainage doesn't exist in isolation. We coordinate with your other contractors, plan around existing services, and ensure our solutions complement your overall property development.

Transparent pricing

You'll know what you're paying for. Our quotes break down materials, labour, and any potential complications. No surprises, no hidden costs.

Common drainage issues we solve

• Surface water pooling around buildings
• Soggy lawns that never dry out
• Retaining walls showing signs of water pressure
• Driveway subsidence and cracking
• Basement or subfloor moisture problems
• Erosion on sloped sections
• Failed or inadequate existing drainage

Investment guide

Drainage systems typically range from $3,000 for basic surface water solutions to $20,000+ for comprehensive property-wide systems. Factors affecting investment include:

• Property size and complexity
• Soil conditions and excavation requirements
• Distance to discharge points
• Council requirements and consents
• Integration with existing systems

Ready to protect your property?

Don't wait for the next heavy rain to expose drainage problems. A professional assessment now could save significant costs down the track.

Schedule a drainage assessment – we'll provide a clear evaluation and no-obligation quote.