SKM/Geology Team Use of GIS

Date: 25 August 2009

The SKM/geology team uses GIS systems to display previous boreholes, test pits, hand auger holes and cone penetration test (CPT) holes on a map of the area.  The data are collected by:

1. Searching existing archives when undertaking desk studies for sites.  GNS Science / Wairakei Research Centre have a similar database and can supply location maps with any relevant borehole logs; archives can supply geotechnical reports for recent developments.
2. Drilling or excavating holes for projects.  Map coordinates and rough levels are taken using GPS.

Having access to the database makes searching for known exploratory holes easy - the site being studied can be visualized on the map and any surrounding hole logs identified. The time saving is estimated at 20 per cent:

If the database wasn't there we would probably have to go through a spreadsheet and identify any nearby logs by the address only, with the possibility of not identifying all info available. There are currently around 370 logs on the database in the Wellington area. The database also has potential cost savings for SKM clients.  If there are previous holes in close proximity to a site, less holes could be required. (SKM case study material).

This case study has been taken from the Spatial Information in the New Zealand Economy - Realising Productivity Gains report, August 2009.