THE TIERS VILLAS, QUEENSTOWN

Investigatory geological mapping and excavated pilot cuts were carried out by one of our experienced engineering geologists to identify risks associated with the proposal for a 20 m high rock excavation in a challenging geological environment.

Following creation of a geological model, our geotechnical design engineers developed a design for a rock anchored and shotcreted face to meet both temporary and permanent support requirements. A top-down construction sequence was utilised to enable the continued observation and adaption of the design during construction which ensured that the final solution was not only robust but optimised to the conditions observed.

Key Project Challenges

• Magnitude of the cut proposed in challenging ground conditions

• Highly seismic area/code requirements

• Time constraints for adaption of the design during construction