Area and Geology

Geography is potentially one of the most important factors to consider when selecting the correct stone. Historically the majority of stone structures throughout New Zealand have been built from local stone that was relatively easy to access.

Canterbury is particularly fortunate to have many local stone types well suited to stone construction; Port Hills Stone, Halswell Basalt, Oxford Basalt, Charteris Bay Sandstone, Timaru Bluestone, Riverstone and different types of Limestone to name a few.

Another great example of this would be the Central Otago schist that was used by early settlers to build structures that now seem to blend in perfectly to the landscape.

New Zealands unique geography has provided a multitude of stone types within each region.

Central Otago Schist

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Oamaru Limestone

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Banks Peninsula Sandstone

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Port Hills Volcanic Basalt

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A word on local stone

Stonework always seems to blend effortlessly when local stone is used. Added benefits include low freight costs and environmental savings in not transporting building materials long distances. Riverstone structures near the Canterbury braided rivers seem so in keeping. Volcanic stonework around the Canterbury port hills blends in perfectly with the heritage stone structures of the area.

Sometimes a local stone may not be suitable in regards to the texture/colour/architectural design elements of your property, this is when incorporating a unique stone sourced from outside the region is a good idea to achieve desired outcomes.

To enquire about what stone options are available, please feel free to get in touch.