Recently at Nelson Port, Interbloc units were subjected to a significant real-world impact after being struck by heavy machinery, involving an excavator weighing approximately 30 tonnes.

Despite the force of the collision, the Interbloc blocks remained standing, clearly demonstrating the inherent strength, stability, and resilience of the system.

This incident highlights the safety and performance benefits of reinforced Interbloc systems, which are engineered not only to retain ground but also to protect people, assets, and operational continuity in high-risk environments such as ports, industrial sites, and transport hubs.

Real-world events like this provide powerful validation of why properly engineered, reinforced infrastructure solutions matter. In locations subject to heavy plant movement and constrained operating conditions, the consequences of failure can be severe. In this instance, the robustness of the Interbloc system helped mitigate what could have been a far more serious outcome.

At Envirocon, we are proud to supply and support Interbloc solutions that perform when it matters most, delivering confidence, safety, and resilience in demanding applications.

A major storm event on the West Coast recently caused widespread disruption, cutting all road access into and out of the region. Several critical routes were closed due to significant slips and underslips, including State Highway 6 near Coal Creek, south of Murchison, leaving communities and freight operators isolated.

At this location, the rapid reopening of SH6 was critical to restoring connectivity for local communities and maintaining essential freight movements. The speed and effectiveness of the emergency response were made possible through the use of Interbloc precast concrete blocks, which enabled the fast construction of a temporary single-lane carriageway capable of carrying heavy vehicles.

One of the key advantages of the Interbloc solution was local availability. Interbloc units were already stockpiled at Fulton Hogan’s Appleby Quarry, allowing construction crews to mobilise immediately. This eliminated the significant delays that would have occurred if materials had needed to be transported from Christchurch via Blenheim, enabling repair works to begin without delay and the highway to reopen sooner.

This project demonstrates how modular, reusable infrastructure systems such as Interbloc can play a vital role in emergency response and network resilience, particularly when supported by strategic local stockpiling. The ability to deploy a proven, heavy-duty solution at short notice was instrumental in reducing downtime on a critical transport corridor.

Credit goes to Fulton Hogan and all crews involved for their efficient, safe, and highly effective work under challenging conditions.

The newly installed Croatia-texture Interbloc+ retaining wall at Northcote College is a standout example of how modern precast systems can deliver both structural performance and architectural quality. Installed only a few months ago, the wall is already demonstrating the durability, stability, and visual refinement expected from the Interbloc+ product range.

Positioned alongside one of the school’s main buildings, the retaining structure supports significant elevation changes while presenting a clean, cohesive appearance that enhances the overall site. The Croatia texture — inspired by natural stone — adds depth and character, helping the wall blend seamlessly with both the landscaped terraces and the contemporary architecture of the college.

Engineering Performance with an Architectural Edge

The Northcote College project highlights the versatility of Interbloc+ in delivering two key outcomes:

• Robust structural performance suitable for high-use public environments
• A visually appealing, architectural finish that elevates the surrounding space

The interlocking design of Interbloc+ enables rapid installation and reliable long-term behaviour, making it ideal for environments where safety and durability are paramount.

Designed for Schools and Public Facilities

Schools require infrastructure that is safe, resilient, and low-maintenance. Interbloc+ systems meet these demands through:

• Engineered stability backed by proven load-bearing performance
• Fast, efficient installation with minimal disruption
• Precast concrete durability suited for long-term public use
• A refined, cohesive aesthetic supporting modern campus design

At Northcote College, the retaining wall is performing exactly as intended — supporting pedestrian circulation, tiered outdoor areas, and seating zones while maintaining an architectural finish that enhances the everyday environment for students and staff.

A Strong Example of Interbloc+ in Action

This installation demonstrates how the Interbloc+ Croatia texture can transform a functional retaining structure into an architectural feature. The result is a safe, durable, and visually cohesive space that reflects the standards increasingly expected in modern educational and public facilities.

Interbloc+ continues to prove that high-performance engineering and high-quality design can — and should — go hand in hand.

Situation

Waste Management is New Zealand’s leading provider of waste disposal services. Its purpose is to collect, transport, treat, recycle, recover and dispose off residential, commercial, and industrial waste. They operate facilities throughout the country dedicated to storing and processing all sorts of waste, from ordinary residential to liquid and hazardous waste.

In one of Waste Management facilities is a pond used for collecting water generated during the waste dewatering process. Recently, there has been an increase in waste inflow which raised the capacity requirement for the pond. This required for the pond to be modified to keep up with the inflow and improve the efficiency of its dewatering capacity.

Solution

The modification of Waste Management’s existing pond involved dividing it into to separate halves and adding an end extension. To do this, they considered a few options:

• Box-pour method
• Pre-poured tilt slab
• Interbloc Modular Wall System

Waste Management found the Interbloc Modular Wall System to be the ideal solution for this project. The box-pour method was prevented by the existing pond’s central wall height, while using pre-poured tilt slab proved too costly.

Using the Interbloc Modular Wall System allowed for the pond to be modified easily and cost-effectively. The system was quickly assembled despite the challenging environment of the pond. The installation process simply involved lifting the blocks into the pond using the lifting anchor and assembling them in the pond using a forklift.  Ross, Waste Management’s Production Supervisor described the installation of the system an “easy, hassle free process”.

Benefits

Apart from the efficient installation process provided by the Interbloc Modular Wall System, Waste Management also obtained extra benefits for using Interbloc.

The modular quality of the blocks, along with its lifting anchor component, allowed for the structure to be safely installed. “Safety is held as our highest priority and value at Waste Management”, said Ross.

Furthermore, the modular quality of the blocks also provides Waste Management with the option to modify the pond in the future without any major construction.

Waste Management was also able to reduce their environmental footprint by using Interbloc’s Modular Wall system. Interbloc as a supporter of the Envirocon Product Stewardship Scheme provided them with environmentally sustainable products, which is line with Waste Management’s purpose of tackling New Zealand’s waste.

Pokeno’s uneven landscape makes retaining walls a must for many homeowners. Steve & Sopa are part of this group, searching for a solution for their newly built home.

After moving into their home a few months back, Steve and Sopa wanted to start improving their outdoor space. In Pokeno, rolling hills are often part of the landscape - meaning retaining walls are vital for creating usable space The main areas of focus were the driveway and the entertainment area that looks out towards the paddock.

Initially, timber was considered because they’re often seen as the go-to for retaining walls. With supply chain issues, higher installation costs, and many of their neighbors having timber retaining walls, Steve and Sopa searched for something different. To set themselves apart, they looked for a timber alternative.

After doing some research, they came across Stonebloc on Facebook. What stood out with Stonebloc was that it was “unique and something a bit different” (Steve and Sopa). They didn’t like seeing the fence posts of timber retaining walls, and Stonebloc “removed the obscured appearances the timber wall designs have”.

“We feel our home is one of our greatest assets. Stonebloc raises the looks and value of our home for us and our family’s future to enjoy”

How Stonebloc improved Steve & Sopa’s property:

• Created a retaining wall by their driveway, where fruit trees sit above
• Created a retaining wall that looks out at Pokeno farmland, doubling as an attractive entertainment area

Designing beautiful retaining walls with Stonebloc is simple from installation to maintenance - the perfect solution for homeowners. Better yet, it’s made for New Zealand meaning it fits in well with the country’s landscape.

Steve & Sopa recommend Stonebloc for homeowners as “it’ll make your home and landscape stand out and add value”. The retaining walls last generations, providing an everlasting solution.

Wanting to add value to your home? Get in touch to build Stonebloc retaining walls

Liveable Streets is a joint venture between HEB Construction and Higgins Contracting. Its primary goal is to deliver the Central East Road Corridor Maintenance Contract for Auckland Transport.

The Liveable Streets team is tasked with general maintenance, emergency management, renewals, rehabilitation, road rails, kerbs, crossing, and spill response.

Early in 2022 heavy rains resulted in landslides in Whitford, Auckland. Just 7m from the slippage site on Whitford Road, was housing. With further heavy rains expected, there was an immediate threat to property. There was also the added potential risk of damage to nearby power/utility lines which needed to be considered in the solution’s design. To keep the residents and community safe, a protection wall needed to be erected, fast.

Interbloc to the Rescue

Envirocon’s high productivity, quick reaction Interbloc Precast Concrete Wall System was chosen. When compared to the other options - timber and gabion baskets - it was a no brainer. Both legacy construction systems were too slow to install.

In contrast Interbloc allowed for rapid deployment, with trucks rolling in one after the other offloading blocks which were installed in real time. In just 4 days, 337 blocks were installed to build a wall 2.4m wide, 2.4m high, and 20.4m long.

Wall being installed by the TWC Contracting team

The wall will be in place for an uncertain amount of time and subject to high loads and hydrostatic pressures. Interbloc’s inherent flexibility added additional benefits. A unique block stacking configuration was required, eliminating the need for vertical reinforcing. This aided the speed of installation without compromising structural integrity. Interbloc mortarless interlocking system also allows for water to drain through the wall.

Another key benefit for Liveable Streets is the ability to non-destructively dismantle the wall with ease at any stage in the future and reuse the blocks for another structure or take advantage of Interbloc’s industry leading Buyback Guarantee.

Liveable Streets is an excellent example of the suitability of Interbloc for emergency slip management - a common problem faced by road maintenance contract holders across New Zealand. Similar solutions have been provided throughout the Waikato and Marlborough.

Interested to know more? Get in touch today.

The Morrison family is well-known in the Warkworth community, having owned land near the township for many years. In recent years Bevan Morrison has been converting the family land to industrial and commercial developments to support the town's rapid growth. 

In April 2021, Bevan reached out to Envirocon looking for some blocks for his farm. Once Bevan heard about the unique Stonebloc block, he started to explore using it on his upcoming commercial development. 

That development required a retaining wall to support a carpark. Council requirements also meant the wall needed to have street appeal and serve as a wheel stop - Stonebloc provided the ideal solution.

(Car parked behind the Stonebloc retaining wall that serves as a wheel stop)

Why Stonebloc was chosen

For his retaining wall, Bevan was looking for something that was “functional that also looks good”. He was also looking for something that was fast to install and could be done with a digger. 

Stonebloc was chosen for a few reasons:

• The blocks are a larger square meterage compared to other modular retaining wall systems, meaning installation is faster
• The blocks are flexible with their facia design. If Bevan wants an exposed facia or oxide blocks for future projects, it can be done
• The blocks can be installed with a small digger
• “Looks more real than other options out there”
• “Support was really good and responsive”

Comparison to other retaining wall options

With commercial properties, an important aspect of retaining walls is longevity. After looking into alternative systems such as timber retaining walls and other concrete modular walls, Bevan chose to go with Stonebloc. 

Although timber retaining walls came out slightly cheaper for his 800mm wall, Bevan wants to keep this property in the family for generations. For this, walls need to last and require little maintenance. Timber retaining walls after 20 years start to deteriorate, and you don’t get this with concrete. For Bevan, choosing Stonebloc at the beginning beats out the lower cost and repeated maintenance of timber retaining walls. 

“Slight premium you pay over timber is well worth it to look good” - Bevan Morrison

One of the other reasons Bevan choose Stonebloc was the size of the blocks. Stonebloc allows commercial developers to install with a digger. The standard block size (800mm L, 400mm W, and 400mm H) are in between that of the competitors sizing. For the application of the car park, the Stonebloc sizing was the perfect fit. 

Why Bevan Recommends Stonebloc

As a developer/business owner, Bevan chose Stonebloc as it will look good forever, giving him reassurance his investment is worthwhile. It means that as this property passes down the family, they don’t have to worry about maintaining the wall. 

Bevan loves companies that are trying something new that has “local product and local people”. He’s definitely use it again and would recommend it for applications like this. 

Stonebloc’s flexibility lends to creative design. There is no better example of this than the South Taranaki District Council’s (STDC) seawall at Opunake Beach. 

Opunake Beach is a popular beach in the South Taranaki District. It’s a well-known spot for surfers, even being called “Home of the Big Wave”. Here, an existing crib seawall collapsed making it no longer fit for purpose. This caused risk to the community, creating a need for a durable replacement that can withstand erosion and rising sea levels. Jayson, the Projects Engineer at STDC describes the old seawall:

“ The previous lattice wall design was prone to disintegration brought about by sea water waves coming through. The structure was built in 1995.”

From what Jayson has stated, it is clear the new seawall needed to meet strict criteria - the main criteria being erosion protection.

Stonebloc was chosen as it met STDC and the community’s needs. It ticked off a lot of the boxes, including:

• It can be built fast, reducing potential health and safety risks
• It can withstand the coastal environment
• It can be built over service outlets
• It looks good
•  It provides “Quick installation and it's clean-looking aesthetic wise” - Jayson, STDC

Erosion protection was one of the most important aspects of this project. After years of coastal activity, extreme water levels played a large part in the collapse of the crib wall. Chan Zhi Han, Chartered Engineer from Resilient Structures found that backfill had been washed away during tidal/storm events which left the concrete elements of the crib wall unsupported. It was recommended the future seawall extend the drainage outlets seawards. This ensures the base will not be undermined, leading to a risk of local destablisation. 

(Drainage pointing seawards for the Stonebloc wall)

Another important element considered was the design pressure. After calculating 8 different designs, Chan recommended a tiered Stonebloc seawall. This is because it provides reassurance of high-quality protection with the lowest amount of design pressure.  Chan also noticed evidence of beach scraping which may have contributed to the original wall's damage. The likelihood of damage being made by mechanical equipment was considered with the Stonebloc design, along with the need for erosion protection.

The result of creating custom blocks  was a strong seawall with a functional seating area for beach-goers. 

(A beach-goer sitting on the tiered seating of the Stonebloc Seawall) 

With Stonebloc, you can make your designs come to life. Get in touch with us to start creating. 

Ram raids have increased over the past few months across New Zealand. Many retailers, small business owners, and security companies are looking into loss prevention tactics to counteract the effects of ramraids. To help the community combat this, we introduced BollardBloc - a block that’s both a bollard and outdoor furniture.

Ram raids can have a dire effect on businesses, communities, and people alike. Nathan, the Loss Prevention Manager from The Briscoes Group states:

“Ram raids aren’t just about the loss of stock, it’s also about damage to the building and morale which takes a big dive in these sorts of situations, the cleanup costs, then its months and months of repair work and waiting for the product to repair what has been damaged”

To avoid these impacts from ram raids, The Briscoe Group reached out to us to install BollardBloc in a selection of their Rebel Sports and Briscoes stores. Prior to using our system, they used bollards that were embedded deep into the ground. Because of the services that ran underneath the paths, The Briscoes Group needed a solution that could sit on top.

Installation for BollardBloc is simple. Unlike traditional bollard systems, you just need to place BollardBloc where you need it. You don’t need to pull up any concrete or disrupt services to protect your property. In most cases, you also don’t need council approval to place BollardBloc.

The Briscoes Group chose to go with BollardBloc for a number of reasons. The main reasons being:

• It can sit on top of footpaths -There are services running under where they needed their bollards to be so traditional bollards were not an option. 
• It’s strong - measuring between 1200 and 1800 milimetres and weighing from 1 tonne to 1.5 tonnes
• It functions as furniture - customers can have a place to sit if they need to

To understand the positive impact of having BollardBloc as ramraid protection, watch the video below with Nathan from The Briscoes Group.

Wanting a simple solution to tackle ramraids? Buy BollardBloc

Hamish from HP Works Ltd is an experienced Stonebloc Installer, and has recently completed a Stonebloc project in Campbell’s Bay. 

Prior to Stonebloc being installed, this homeowner had timber retaining walls. Over time (it’s estimated this wall was built in the 1970s), this timber retaining wall failed, creating an urgent need for the customer’s retaining wall to be replaced. 

Timber was out of the question. With its failure in the past, the customer was looking for a more durable option - one that could stand the test of time. Stonebloc was chosen due to its strength and high quality aesthetic. 

The previous retaining wall created a terraced space - with a lower and upper section. To create something more usable, the customer decided to remove the terracing entirely, choosing to have just one supportive retaining wall across the boundary line. 

Here's what Hamish had to say about this project:

"The use of Envirocon's Stonebloc range allowed me to build a solid low maintenance retaining wall that my clients and their neighbors approve of."

Wanting a Stonebloc wall similar to this? Get in touch!

B & T Earthmoving was contracted to make install a retaining wall on high-density development in Epsom, Auckland. This project came with difficulties that traditional retaining wall solutions would have difficulty adapting to. Stonebloc was easily able to work around these difficulties and offer a well-designed, presentable wall.

A prominent feature in this site was bedrock, meaning traditional poles and footings were not an option. For ground like this, retaining wall solutions need to sit upon as opposed to being dug into. Not only was bedrock an issue, but so was tight access. The retaining wall solution needed to have the ability to be built on the boundary line.

Both of these factors - bedrock and tight access - can be remedied by Stonebloc.  The fact that Stonebloc could be installed quickly and could be laid on a bed of metal were the main reasons the contractors chose the product. 

From the contractor’s perspective, installation is very simple and fast. Unlike their solutions such as masonry, there is no grouting or gluing. The blocks stack together much like LEGO. 

Here what Phil from B & T Earthmovers had to say about the project

If you're needing a retaining wall solution that can adapt to tight sites and tough ground, look no further than Stonebloc.

Get in tough with us today. 

“At Daltons we are the best in our field and we like to deal with the best and that’s why we chose Interbloc” - Kerryn, Auckland Area Manager

Daltons is one of New Zealand’s largest landscape supplies businesses. Their products range from fertiliser and compost to aggregate and mulch. Key to Dalton’s success has been their investment in state-of-the-art manufacturing systems and commitment to quality. Tidy, flexible, and efficient bulk materials storage plays a small, but important role as well. Since 2008, Daltons have chosen the Interbloc precast wall system to build their storage bins.

(Interbloc Bin for Daltons Landscape Supplies' Christchurch Yard)

One of the most common solutions that Daltons has used is Interbloc bins. A natural benefit of the bins is it separates their product, making it easier to pick out what’s needed. That’s not the only reason why they chose Interbloc, though. A key plus for them has been the flexibility in the system. Giving them the ability to grow (or shrink) their bins as needed.

“ We can change it. If our bins are too small, we can make them wider, it’s just putting in another footing, putting the rods back in, and restacking them” - Kerryn Gibson, Dalton Landscape Supplies Auckland Area Manager.

Daltons has used the Interbloc solution time and time again. So when it comes to designing or redesigning their yards, it’s easy. This is largely thanks to Interbloc’s intuitive and simple modular design. With the blocks’ interlocking shear key, it is quick and easy to build structures.

Cleanliness is also an important factor for landscape yards. Landscaping is all about creating a space where aesthetics are important. To fit this concept, storage solutions need to create a clean and organised environment. Interbloc fits the brief largely because of its modular design.

“The tidy aspect is something for a landscaped yard. You want to stand out and look good”

If you’re wanting a well-organized landscape yard that suits your current and future needs, get in touch:

https://www.envirocon.co.nz/pages/contact-us

We also offer other Interbloc solutions, some of which are:

• Aggregate bins
• Bulk fertiliser
• Refuse and recycling