(image by Brett Phibbs. Image source: nzherald)
Cyclone Gabrielle’s wrath left Auckland with a staggering 14,000 land slips, making it a global example of this hazardous phenomenon. Auckland’s beauty comes with a vulnerability to land slips, especially after heavy rain. If you’re facing a land slip on your property, don’t panic! Here’s a guide to navigate the situation:
Safety First
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- Assess the Risk: Is the land slip actively moving? Does it threaten your home or infrastructure? If there’s immediate danger, evacuate immediately and call emergency services (dial 111). Always prioritise safety versus staying put.
- Report the Slip: For non-emergency situations, report the land slip to Auckland Council. They will assess the situation and advise on next steps.
Seeking Help and Solutions
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- Contact Your Insurer: Landslip damage may be covered by your insurance policy. Get in touch with your insurer to understand the claim process.
- Engineer’s Expertise: An engineer with experience in land stability (CPEng Geotechnical) can evaluate the damage and recommend solutions for repair and future prevention.
(image by Hannah Peters. Image source: Greenpeace)
Why is Auckland susceptible to Landslips?
- Land characteristics: Auckland has a lot of steep slopes with weak, clay-rich soil sitting on top of soft rock. This clay shrinks and swells throughout the year as it dries and wets, which weakens the soil over time. Heavy rain events then saturate this already weak soil, making it much more likely to slide.
- Heavy rainfall: Auckland gets a lot of rain, and extreme weather events like the storm that hit in January 2023 can overwhelm the ground’s ability to absorb water.
- Development: Building on these slopes can add weight and disrupt drainage, further increasing the risk of landslides.
The Ecological Advantage
Beyond engineers, consider the unique value an ecologist can bring:
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- Understanding the Landscape: Ecologists are experts in natural ecosystems and their impact on slope stability. They can assess factors like vegetation type, drainage patterns, and root systems that contribute to a healthy slope.
- Sustainable Solutions: Ecologists can recommend solutions that address the land slip while promoting long-term stability. This might involve planting native vegetation with deep root systems to reinforce the slope or creating drainage channels to prevent water pooling and further erosion. These solutions are not only effective but also environmentally friendly.
- Habitat Restoration: Land slips can disrupt natural habitats. Ecologists can design plans to restore native plant communities, ensuring the land supports a healthy ecosystem again.
Living with a landslip in Auckland
Recovering from a land slip can be a long process. By prioritising safety and seeking help from engineers and ecologists you can ensure your property’s stability. Talk to our team about real-world solutions for your home or commercial space.
Book a Flood Assessment
Our expert engineers offer affordable flood assessments that pinpoint areas at risk and recommend solutions to keep your property safe and dry. These flood assessments can help you:
- Make informed decisions about land use and infrastructure.
- Helps to identify the right insurance policy for your home and/or business.
- Brings peace of mind to future buyers when you want to sell.
Download Thomas Consultants – Flood Assessment flyer and talk to our team about the best assessment option for you.
