Geotechnical Drilling – Deans Head

Location
Deans Head, Christchurch

Client
Aurecon & Christchurch City Council

Drilling Project Brief
Two geotechnical holes required, PQ Cored to 35-40m depth through landslide to assist Geotechnical Engineers to determine long term stability. Due to the nature of the location we chose to utilise our fly rig (QM750) and needed a helicopter to gain access.

The sites were prepped and drill pads constructed to receive the rig. The rig was flown in by Helipro, with Independent Traffic Services controlling the traffic whilst the rig components were airlifted over the busy main road to the drill site.

Both holes had inclinometers installed at completion.

Drilling Project Challenges

No vehicular access – entrance by foot only.
Very steep terrain in an urban environment.
Management of helicopter operating over a very busy road (traffic management policy).
Unstable and uneven ground conditions.

Result

Project progressed smoothly, a few minor issues, which were to be expected given the challenges.