Niche Modular specialises in modular buildings for residential, commercial and industrial use. They were recently involved in delivering two four-bedroom homes in Wairoa — an area that is still recovering from the destruction of Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023. Taking advantage of the efficiency of the StopDigging Groundscrew system, the Niche team was able to install foundations for both homes in just two days.

The two homes were designed with an identical layout to be installed on the same site. Niche’s geotechnical engineer evaluated the site and buildings to determine the best foundation typology for the project, selecting the StopDigging Groundscrew system for the project. 

The StopDigging Groundscrew system is a CodeMark certified groundscrew pile foundation system that works as a cantilever pile foundation for lightweight and low rise buildings. The system is fast and easy to install, minimises ground disturbance, and creates zero site waste, resulting in increased productivity onsite compared to traditional foundations. 

The Niche Modular team had worked with the StopDigging system on past projects, and have trained their team on how to install the system in-house. For this project the StopDigging team visited the site for testing to determine the appropriate size and layout of groundscrews, before supplying the screws and drawings for the Niche team to complete the installation. To mitigate poor ground conditions, 3m piles with close spacing were specified for the project. 

Troy Nation, Managing Director of Niche Modular says the StopDigging team offered good support throughout the project. “My team had good support from the regional StopDigging team,” he says. “There was a test done on site, a review and calculation done, and then full drawings issued out for screw requirements for the typology of the site. That was all compiled for our guys to then install the required screws.”

Installation by the Niche Modular team was quick and easy, helping to keep the project on track. “We did the install for the two houses in under two days,” says Troy. “It’s the quickest system that we use. There’s also less disruption on the ground, and to neighbouring properties in terms of noise.” 

As areas like Wairoa continue to rebuild following flooding, the StopDigging groundscrew system provides a smart solution for faster foundation installs — and ultimately more efficient builds. 

“The project was a success,” says Troy. “We were able to deliver to Wairoa, which logistically is a challenge to get to with restrictions on the road. The whole project has been a great success.”