Professional Earthworks & Excavation | Nelson & Tasman

Successful construction starts with successful earthworks. Whether you're developing a subdivision, building your dream home, or preparing a commercial site, precision earthworks save time, money, and headaches throughout your project.

The real cost of earthworks done right (or wrong)

Earthworks typically represent 10-15% of construction budgets, but they influence 100% of what follows. Poor site preparation compounds into drainage failures, structural issues, and compliance problems. Conversely, quality earthworks create stable platforms that simplify construction, reduce weather delays, and prevent costly remediation.

We've remediated enough failed projects to know: the "cheapest" earthworks quote often becomes the most expensive decision.

Comprehensive earthworks services

Bulk excavation & site cuts

Large-scale earth removal for commercial developments, subdivisions, or challenging residential sites. We handle projects from 100m³ to 10,000m³+, with efficient material handling and disposal strategies. This includes calculating cut-to-fill ratios to minimise off-site disposal costs, establishing haul routes that protect existing infrastructure, and maintaining productivity regardless of weather conditions.

Precision grading & levels

Modern GPS-controlled equipment achieves tolerances of ±20mm across large areas. Critical for concrete slabs, sports fields, commercial hardstands, and anywhere water management matters. We establish permanent benchmarks, provide as-built surveys, and ensure seamless integration with civil engineering designs.

Cut & fill optimization

Balancing earthworks saves significant costs. We analyse your site to minimise material import/export, design efficient cut-to-fill transitions, and ensure proper compaction between layers. On sloping sites, this often means creating usable platforms while managing the geotechnical challenges of filled ground.

Site clearing & preparation

More than just vegetation removal. We grub out root systems that could cause future settlement, strip and stockpile valuable topsoil separately, identify and protect services, and establish erosion controls before major works begin. For contaminated sites, we coordinate with environmental consultants for compliant remediation.

Access construction

Temporary or permanent access roads that handle construction traffic without failing. This includes proper base construction for heavy vehicles, drainage to prevent washouts, gradient management for safe operation, and minimising impact on neighbouring properties.

Material supply & management

We source quality aggregates from approved suppliers: GAP40/65 for structural fills, drainage metals in various grades, topsoil (screened and tested), and specialty materials for specific engineering requirements. Our relationships with local quarries ensure reliable supply and competitive rates.

Equipment fleet & capabilities

Right-sized equipment for every project:

• 20-30 tonne excavators: Bulk excavation, loading trucks, major earthworks
• 12-15 tonne excavators: General earthworks, precision work, most residential sites
• 5-8 tonne excavators: Tight access, detailed excavation, urban sites
• Compaction equipment: Achieving specified densities for engineered fills
• Rock breakers: Controlled rock removal when required

Working with your project team

Earthworks rarely happen in isolation. We integrate with:

• Engineers: Following civil designs, achieving compaction specifications, coordinating testing
• Surveyors: Working from accurate setouts, providing as-built information
• Environmental consultants: Managing erosion, sediment control, contamination issues
• Other contractors: Sequencing works to maintain site access and project flow
• Councils: Ensuring compliance with resource consents and earthworks permits

Managing earthworks risks

Weather & seasonal planning

Nelson-Tasman's climate creates specific challenges. Winter earthworks face saturation issues, while summer's dry conditions can make compaction difficult. We plan around seasonal conditions, implement appropriate moisture control, and have contingencies for weather delays.

Unexpected ground conditions

Every site holds surprises. We've encountered everything from uncharted rock to historic fill to natural springs. Our approach: investigate thoroughly before major works, communicate findings immediately, and provide costed options for dealing with discoveries.

Environmental compliance

Earthworks consents are increasingly stringent. We implement erosion and sediment control plans, maintain documentation for council inspections, and ensure all works comply with regional rules. This isn't red tape – it's protecting waterways and avoiding enforcement action.

Commercial earthworks expertise

Commercial projects demand different approaches. Tighter programmes require efficient sequencing. Multiple stakeholders need clear communication. Quality assurance demands comprehensive documentation. We deliver commercial earthworks that keep your project on schedule and within budget.

Investment planning

Earthworks costs vary significantly based on:

• Site accessibility and working room
• Material types (soil, clay, rock proportions)
• Disposal distances and tipping fees
• Compaction and testing requirements
• Seasonal timing and weather risks
• Environmental compliance requirements

Accurate pricing requires site assessment. We provide detailed quotes breaking down machine time, materials, disposal, and any provisional sums for unknowns.

Recent earthworks challenges solved

• Cutting building platforms into steep hillsides with minimal environmental impact
• Remediating failed subdivisions where original earthworks weren't properly compacted
• Creating level industrial yards on former orchards with variable fill depths
• Managing high water tables during excavation for underground services
• Working around existing services in congested urban sites

Ready to move earth efficiently?

From lifestyle block development to commercial site preparation, we bring the equipment, expertise, and local knowledge to deliver earthworks that form solid foundations for your project's success.

Discuss your earthworks requirements – call 027 KIWIBUILD (027 549 428) for an obligation-free site assessment.