Why it matters
Cost effective solutions
eliminates the need for expensive commercial drilling equipment and avoids the time drain of manual hand augers. We deliver results faster at a fraction of the cost.
Access to challenging terrain
mounted on a standard 4WD Hilux, the rig can go anywhere a standard 4WD utility vehicle can, reaching sites that larger commercial rigs can’t.
Enhanced speed & efficiency
eliminating the slower hand auger methods, our drill rig enables us to reach depths of 2 to 8 metres much more efficiently. Geotechnical investigations no longer have to be time-consuming.
Better decisions
fast and effective soil profile logging is ensured, even in challenging conditions such as encountering gravelly sands or groundwater. We can retrieve undisturbed samples across the soil profile for accurate analysis.
Backed by expertise
all samples and logs are assessed by senior geotechnical experts and aligned with NZGS standards.
Ideal Applications of the Drill Rig
Our Hilux-mounted drill rig has proven its value in the following areas:
Preliminary Liquefaction Studies
screen soil conditions to assess liquefaction potential in earthquake-prone zones.
Foundation Recommendations
obtain accurate foundation data for diverse projects, including residential, commercial, rural and industrial developments.
Stormwater Management
drill and test infiltration rates to inform stormwater soakage solutions.
Groundwater Wells
install temporary, PVC-screened wells to assess water table conditions.
Its versatility has supported thousands of successful investigations over the past 20 years across the central North Island.
Versatile applications
The Ground Master drill rig supports a wide range of investigations:
Residential Sites
foundations, slope stability, platform establishment.
Industrial Facilities
slab design, settlement risk, groundwater control.
Stormwater Soakage Testing
soak pits, infiltration rates, attenuation assessments.
Liquefaction Screening
rapid data collection for seismic risk assessments.
Groundwater Monitoring
installation of temporary wells for risk evaluation.
Proven in the field
The Ground Master drill rig has been deployed across hundreds of projects throughout New Zealand, consistently saving time and cost for clients. It’s just one way we put innovation into practice, combining technical expertise with practical tools to make projects easier, safer and more efficient.
We are committed to quality assurance with every bore hole drill sampled. Soil profiles are transported back to our state-of-the-art laboratory for review by senior geotechnical staff. We adhere strictly to the NZGS (New Zealand Geotechnical Society) Field Description of Soil and Rock standards. We provide our clients with unmatched confidence in reporting and recommendations.
How we work (LIFT)
L
Listen
we understand ground conditions and client needs to design investigations that matter.
I
Innovate
we invest in equipment that redefines speed and efficiency.
F
Follow Through
we ensure data is robust, defensible and accepted by councils.
T
Team Up
our engineers and geologists working together on-site to capture the right data that translate directly into buildable solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions.
How deep can the Hilux-mounted rig drill?
Most boreholes reach 4–6 m; the practical range is 2–8 m, depending on conditions.
Can the rig access steep or remote sites?
Yes, because it’s Hilux-mounted, it can access almost any site a 4WD can.
Is the data accepted for council consents?
Yes, results are logged, tested and assessed to NZGS standards, producing evidence-based reports that meet consent requirements.