Engineering
Structural
From feasibility to realisation, we advise and provide designs for every type and scale of project.
Our expertise in all materials, structural systems and construction methodologies has generated a national reputation for finding better ways to deliver clients’ projects to a high standard.
We’re proud of the diversity of projects we deliver throughout New Zealand, from large industrial and commercial projects through to simple residential alterations, seismic assessments and seismic strengthening.
Our structural team works alongside our geotechnical, civil, environmental and fire teams to identify and leverage our collective expertise on your project.
Client Feedback
“We have found their work to be of high quality technically, and very responsive to our architectural requirements. Their design advice and positivity to suggestions has been excellent. Their delivery has met our programme requirements, and their collegiality in working in our design team with all consultants has been enjoyable. We will have no hesitation in inviting them to provide services to us on other projects.”
Brian Elliott – Designgroup Stapleton Elliott
Our services include
Engineering reviews based on cost-effectiveness and value
Expertise across multi-storey engineered timber, concrete and steel structures
Damage resistant engineering design
Structural reliability and risk analysis
Seismic strengthening
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Structural Engineering
What kind of building seismic assessment do I need?
There are effectively three types of building assessment:
- Initial Evaluation Procedure (IEP)
- Initial Seismic Assessment (IEA)
- Detailed Seismic Assessment (DSA)
What is an ISA – Initial Seismic Assessment?
An ISA – Initial Seismic Assessment is a broader process that includes the IEP and any other initial checks (e.g. basic structural drawings, photos, or past reports) to assess seismic risk.
When it’s used:
- As a first formal step under the NZ seismic assessment framework.
- Often used to decide whether a full DSA is required.
Output:
- Consolidated summary of known information.
- Decision point: proceed to DSA or not.
Best for:
- Building owners wanting to understand regulatory risk or prepare for tenant/insurance queries.
- Preliminary compliance checks.
Which assessment do I need?
Which One Do You Need?
| Your situation | Recommended Assessment |
| You want a quick, low-cost estimate | IEP |
| You’re unsure if a full assessment is needed | ISA |
| You plan to strengthen, sell, or finance | DSA |
| Your building may be earthquake-prone (<34% NBS) | DSA (via ISA first) |
What is an IEP – Initial Evaluation Procedure?
An IEP – Initial Evaluation Procedure is a preliminary desktop and visual assessment used to estimate a building’s seismic strength as a percentage of the New Building Standard (%NBS).
When it’s used:
- As a first step to screen older buildings.
- For quick risk profiling and council records.
- Often used for portfolio-wide assessments.
Output:
- %NBS score based on age, structure type, and risk zone.
- No detailed calculations involved.
Best for:
- Older commercial buildings with limited records.
- Clients wanting a fast and low-cost seismic overview.
What is a DSA – Detailed Seismic Assessment?
A DSA – Detailed Seismic Assessment is a comprehensive engineering analysis that models the building’s seismic behaviour in detail using calculations and site-specific data.
When it’s used:
- If ISA or IEP suggests <67% NBS.
- For high-importance or high-risk buildings.
- To support strengthening design or compliance.
Output:
- Detailed %NBS rating for structural elements.
- Specific retrofit recommendations (if needed).
Best for:
- Commercial property transactions.
- Buildings requiring building consent or compliance upgrade.
- Insurance or financing purposes.
Our award-winning projects include state-of-the-art structures such as Young Hunter House in Christchurch – the first of its type in New Zealand to feature a post-tensioned timber frame. The building was designed to withstand a one-in-2500-year seismic event with controllable, minimal and repairable damage.
Our Projects
Riverside Market, Christchurch – Award winning “world-class inner-city retail, hospitality, food and produce market”
1 Albert Street, Auckland – Award-Winning Commercial Space
