Concrete & Asphalt Driveways | Nelson & Tasman

Your driveway is one of the first things people notice about your property. More importantly, it's infrastructure you'll use every single day. We build driveways that look professional and perform flawlessly for decades – whether concrete, asphalt, or decorative options.

The true value of a well-built driveway

A properly constructed driveway is an investment that pays dividends. It enhances your property value, reduces vehicle maintenance, prevents erosion issues, and eliminates the ongoing costs of patching and repairs. For commercial properties, it projects professionalism while handling heavy traffic loads.

Driveway solutions we deliver

Concrete driveways

The gold standard for durability and low maintenance. We pour 100mm minimum thickness with proper steel reinforcement (665 mesh standard, heavier for commercial applications). Saw-cut control joints prevent random cracking, while proper sub-base preparation ensures no settlement issues. Expected lifespan: 30+ years with minimal maintenance.

Asphalt driveways

Asphalt offers a smooth, professional surface at a competitive price point. Particularly suited to:

• Long driveways: More cost-effective than concrete for large areas
• Commercial properties: Handles heavy traffic, easy to repair
• Curved designs: Flows naturally around landscaping
• Quick installation: Driveable within 24-48 hours

We ensure proper base preparation (150mm compacted AP40 minimum), correct asphalt thickness (75mm residential, 100mm+ commercial), and appropriate crossfall for drainage. Quality asphalt with proper maintenance lasts 20-25 years.

Chip seal surfaces

A cost-effective option combining asphalt's flexibility with decorative stone chips. Popular for rural driveways and subdivisions, chip seal provides good traction, attractive appearance with colour options, and easier repair than solid surfaces. We coordinate with specialist contractors while handling all base preparation.

Exposed aggregate finishes

Combines the durability of concrete with enhanced aesthetics. We offer various aggregate options from local suppliers – river stones, chip blends, or imported aggregates. Anti-slip properties make this ideal for sloped driveways. The exposed finish hides minor imperfections while adding character to your entrance.

Paver systems

Interlocking concrete pavers or natural stone options for distinctive appearances. While the initial investment is higher, pavers offer advantages: individual units can be replaced if damaged, services can be accessed without destroying the whole driveway, and they handle ground movement better than solid slabs. Ideal for heritage properties or architectural homes.

Gravel driveways

Cost-effective for rural properties and long access ways. Success depends entirely on proper foundation – we install geotextile fabric, compact AP40 base course, and crown the surface for drainage. Regular maintenance is required, but done right, a gravel drive handles heavy vehicles and provides excellent drainage.

Critical factors for driveway success

Foundation preparation – the invisible investment

What you can't see matters most. We excavate to stable ground, install proper sub-base materials (typically 150mm AP40), and compact in layers. Poor preparation leads to cracking, sinking, and premature failure. We've repaired enough failed driveways to know – cutting corners here costs thousands later.

Drainage integration

Water is the enemy of all driveway surfaces. Every driveway needs proper falls (minimum 1:60 for concrete/asphalt, 1:40 for gravel), edge drainage, and integration with your property's stormwater system. We install channel drains where needed and ensure water flows away from buildings and doesn't pond on the surface.

Edge restraint & definition

Driveway edges take the most abuse. For concrete, we thicken edges and properly form them. Asphalt requires solid edge support – either concrete kerbing or compacted shoulders. Without proper edges, driveways crack and crumble from the outside in.

Asphalt vs concrete – making the right choice

Choose asphalt when:

• Budget is a primary concern
• You have a long driveway (cost advantage increases with area)
• Quick installation is needed
• Future modifications are likely
• You prefer the black surface aesthetic

Choose concrete when:

• Maximum longevity is important
• You want decorative finish options
• Heavy vehicle traffic is expected
• Minimal maintenance is preferred
• Oil stains are a concern

Commercial driveway considerations

Commercial projects demand different specifications. Heavy vehicle loadings require thicker surfaces (100-150mm asphalt or 150mm+ concrete), heavier reinforcement, and potentially concrete additives or polymer-modified asphalt. We coordinate with your other contractors, maintain site access during construction, and ensure compliance with commercial standards.

Repair & resurfacing services

Not every driveway needs complete replacement. We offer:

• Asphalt resurfacing: New surface layer over sound base
• Crack sealing: Preventing water infiltration
• Pothole repairs: Proper patching that lasts
• Concrete grinding: Removing trip hazards
• Drainage retrofits: Adding drainage to existing driveways

Investment guide

Driveway costs vary significantly based on size, site conditions, and finish selection:

• Asphalt: $65-95 per m² (including preparation)
• Chip seal: $45-65 per m²
• Plain concrete: $120-150 per m²
• Exposed aggregate: $140-180 per m²
• Concrete pavers: $160-220 per m²
• Gravel (properly done): $35-55 per m²
• Site preparation: $40-80 per m² (varies with conditions)

Note: Difficult access, steep sites, or poor ground conditions affect pricing. We provide detailed quotes after site assessment.

Common problems we solve

• Existing driveways cracking, sinking, or breaking up
• Poor drainage causing washouts or puddles
• Inadequate turning areas or parking spaces
• Gravel loss on steep driveways
• Commercial sites needing heavy-duty solutions
• Properties requiring disabled access compliance
• Old seal driveways needing resurfacing

Planning your driveway project?

Whether you're building new, replacing a failed driveway, or upgrading your property entrance, we provide honest advice about your best options. Our experience across residential and commercial projects means we can recommend solutions that balance aesthetics, function, and budget.

Get a detailed driveway quote – we'll assess your site and provide clear recommendations.