The scale of the site provided one challenge, being nearly 170 hectares. With several high terraces and sloping terrain, level control between sections of the vineyard required careful control. Setting out for new vine rows was done in the middle of winter, with the area experiencing some very sharp frosts. The equipment still works well in the cold, but the surveyors work marginally slower!

Areas that required detailed site information were surveyed in terms of a known height datum, and in relation to the boundaries of the lots. All site features, fences and banks were fixed and related to aerial photographs. From this information, the area of new vineyard blocks could be calculated to fit the site and ensure the rows “flowed” from block to block.

Topographic information was gained by EDM and GPS surveying. GPS made the transferring of heights very easy, and this was checked by EDM observations from each terrace level. Setting out of vine rows was also done by both methods. It was easy to sight through the EDM over a long distance to keep vine rows straight, while calculated row positions were quickly set out by EDM. On site adjustment of the rows was possible to fit new client requests.

The topographic survey ensured that new buildings could be oriented correctly on site for maximum functionality. By fixing heights, the design of a future multi-floored winery building could be achieved, allowing for the most productive flow of the grapes and wine through the winery. The dam was constructed from our site plan, allowing water for frost control and irrigation. We helped the client maximise the area under production, and ensure that the look of the vineyard was right.

Please click on the images below to the left to view a closer look. The images are large and will load in a separate window.

The topographical survey of the Craggy Range site before the dam in designed.

The completed dam.

The lower terrace showing the completed vineyards.

The Manager's House overlooking the lower terraces, dam and expansive valley.

Located on densely vegetated steep terrain, this 8 block hunting lodge lifestyle subdivision on the exposed south-eastern coast of the North Island required a variety of methods to accurately survey the 1800 hectares of the site. While most of the site was surveyed using GPS technology, some areas of thick vegetation in steep valleys required a combination of conventional methods with GPS technology.

A digital survey plan of the project.

The site itself is expansive and varied. Totalling over 6300 hectares the site includes coastal cliffs and dunes, river valleys and steep hill country. There is bush, forest and pasture throughout and sensitive flora and fauna sites along the coast. Planning will involve Tomlinson & Carruthers leading a team of specialists to achieve the most sustainable results. Surveying the existing coastline and access tracks will involve several teams of surveyors and technicians utilising GPS surveying equipment.