Geotechnical engineering capabilities

At HD Geo, we provide comprehensive geotechnical engineering services focused on delivering smart, practical solutions that prioritize project success and ground safety. From ground investigation and risk assessment to construction monitoring and advanced design solutions, our team is dedicated to achieving reliable and efficient outcomes.

Guided by technical expertise, industry best practices, and a commitment to safety and quality, we ensure every project is executed with care and precision. With capabilities ranging from hazard mitigation and temporary works to seismic and foundation design, we’re here to bring smart thinking to your projects and ensure safe ground for people.

Site investigations

  • Shallow and deep soil and rock investigations

  • Soakage testing

  • Geomorphic mapping

  • Bulk sampling to supply for laboratory testing

  • Rockface logging

  • Drone mapping to support 3D model development

Construction Monitoring

  • Supervising cut to fill operations

  • Building Location Area (BLA) compaction testing and certification

  • Construction observation (PS4), testing and certification for building consent.

  • Large scale soil compaction testing and certification in accordance NZS 4431:2022 – (Statement of professional opinion)

Engineering Geology

  • Geohazard identification and risk assessments (AGS, NHRA, NZTA risk assessment methods)

  • Ground model development

  • Landslide and slope instability assessments

  • Slope stability and rock fall analysis and mitigation design

  • Passive and active rockfall system design

  • Rock anchor and bolt analysis and design

  • Ropes access inspections and supervision

Qualifications

  • Chartered Engineers – CPEng & PEngGeol

  • NZTA ARL accreditation

  • NZTA Road inspectors

  • CAA Part 102 certified for Drones

Geotechnical engineering

  • NZS 3604 foundation assessments and reporting

  • Liquefaction and lateral spreading analysis and mitigation

  • Geotechnically lead design of shallow and deep foundations

  • Retaining wall design (Timber and steel poles, gravity block, Mechanically Stabilised Earth (MSE).

  • Soil nail system analysis and design

  • Landslide mitigation design

  • Expansive soil assessment and mitigation

  • Earthworks specifications in accordance with NZS 4431:2022

  • Ground improvement investigation and design

  • Static settlement assessment and mitigation

  • Temporary works assessment and mitigation – excavations, retaining walls and platforms  

  • Geotechnical pre‑purchase appraisals

  • Geotechnical design certification (PS1)

  • Geotechnical Peer Review (PS2)

  • Geotechnical reporting to support resource and building consents applications

Expert work

  • Expertise witness for hearing and mediation matters