Concrete
Concrete is the most popular medium for new driveways and pathways in New Zealand.
Various finishing effects can be applied to concrete, including but not limited to: exposed aggregate (where chemicals and high-pressure water are used to expose the larger pebbles/stones on the surface), acid wash or acid etch (where chemicals are used to ‘clean’ the surface and open the pores), colouring (where coloured pigments are added to colour or tint the concrete), sealing (where a sealant is applied to the surface of the concrete to help prevent staining and produce slip resistance or a wet look) and stamping (where a template is used to make an impression on the surface of the concrete).
The completed concrete slab is usually scored (cut) with a special concrete saw to create control joints (joints that help control where cracking occurs due to shrinkage). The cuts are made at predetermined spacings and only after the concrete has obtained sufficient strength but before internal cracking begins. Therefore, the timing of saw cuts is critical. Determining when to make cuts depends on many factors, including the type of admixtures and aggregate (stones) used in the concrete, the air temperature, and the concrete's mix design.
Pavers
Pavers are a stylish alternative for creating a hard, durable and low maintenance surface.
The process of laying pavers varies from site to site, depending on a number of factors. But typically includes preparing the ground, setting out laying guides for perfect lines, installing the pavers, including cutting them to shape with a special saw to fit the space perfectly, grouting (filling the gaps between the pavers with a special fit-for-purpose filler) and applying a finishing treatment to the area.
Pavers come in many different shapes, sizes and compositions to suit all purposes, styles and budgets.
Concrete pavers are a man made sustainable product that comes in a range of colours, sizes and textures. They’re a great looking, affordable option and because they’re made in New Zealand, they’re readily available and leave a lower carbon footprint.
Natural stone pavers are created by cutting slices from entire large stones. They’re sourced from all over the world, but favourites include Indian Sandstone, Asian Bluestone, NZ Stone and Granite. Each natural stone paver is unique.
Porcelain paving is made from tough, compressed material that is glazed and fired in a kiln at over 1,000 degrees. It is dense, strong and highly abrasion resistant, making it hard wearing, stain-resistant and colour-fast.
See our paving page for more information.
Inlays
Inlays are a great way to add interest and definition to a concrete pad or path.
Various materials can be inlayed, including recycled sleepers, hardwoods, bricks, pebbles, pavers, cobblestones, blocks and tiles.
Drainage
Effective drainage systems are a vital component of any landscaping. Particularly when the surrounding surfaces are hard or impermeable (don’t allow water to pass through) like concrete and paving.
A good drainage system ensures surface flooding does not occur during wet seasons and due to other reasons where surface water builds up on the land.
Drainage systems prevent flooding of driveways, gardens, lawns and yards. More importantly, they divert water away from your dwelling, reducing the chance of damaging water ingress around your home.
Drainage systems typically involve multiple components including appropriately sloped surfaces, basecourse, trenches, channels, sumps, pumps, grates and slot drains. They may extend to the stormwater outlet and may include or connect to the dwelling’s drainage system.
Explore more landscape design options
See driveways in our projects
-
driveway | paving | garden | decks | pergola | walls | fences | ...
Lyall Bay
-
fences | garden | decks | walls | steps | driveway | ...
Karori
Wisdom
Landscaping in Wellington can present its unique challenges. We’ve spent years taming the terrain and know what to consider when designing your dream landscape.
-
Planting with New Zealand native flora
Native New Zealand plantlife is suited perfectly to Wellington’s wily weather conditions. Because of their adaptability to local environmental conditions, most New Zealand native plants are able to thrive in Wellington landscape design.
-
Keeping your lawn healthy
You’d think your lawn would be thriving with all this rain. While summer might sear patches into your lawn and cause your grass to brown, winter drowns everything in mud; the sort that’s easily shifted and deformed under even the slightest application of pressure.
-
Lessons from Japanese landscaping
The beauty of ornamental Japanese landscaping is that it can be achieved in the smallest of spaces. A small front yard or back yard can be transformed into an intimate natural escape.