Landscaping & Outdoor Structures – Retaining Walls, Patios & Pergolas

When landscaping projects need structural engineering

Landscaping can transform how you use your home, but outdoor structures need more than just good looks. Retaining walls, patios, pergolas and garden decks all have to handle weight, weather and movement over time — and that’s where structural engineering comes in.

Having started his career as a landscape gardener, James knows the difference between a wall that looks great on day one and a wall that won’t budge 10 years later. At Kotare Designs, he combines nearly 20 years of structural and civil engineering experience with a practical understanding of outdoor builds to design safe, durable structures you can rely on.

Do you need consent for landscaping walls?

In New Zealand, retaining walls under 1.5m high without additional loads (like driveways or sloping ground) often don’t require council consent. But here’s the thing: just because you can build without consent doesn’t mean you should skip the engineering.

Poorly designed walls can lean, crack or even fail completely over time, especially if they’re holding back soil or water. Using a structural engineer ensures your wall is built to last — consent or no consent.

What else can we help with outdoors?

Your outdoor space is only as strong as what holds it up. Here are a few ways we can help make sure it’s built to last.

  • Consent-ready design or peace-of-mind checks

    Retaining walls are one of the most common landscaping features we design. Whether you need council consent or not, a wall holding back soil or water needs to be engineered properly to avoid cracking, leaning or collapsing later. We create practical designs that work with your site conditions and drainage to make sure your wall lasts.

  • Ensuring bases and edges handle load and drainage

    A patio or paved area might look simple on the surface, but what’s underneath matters most. We design bases and edge support that can handle weight, water flow and movement over time, so your outdoor space stays level and low-maintenance.

  • Footings and connections that stand up to Wellington winds

    A great pergola is all about stability. We design footings and connections that keep your structure sturdy even in Wellington’s famous wind. Our plans ensure it’s safe, compliant, and ready to become your favourite outdoor spot.

  • Smart, compliant design for elevated spaces

    Decks and car decks often need more engineering than people realise, especially when they’re raised or built into a slope. We provide structural designs that are strong, safe and council-ready, so you can enjoy your outdoor space without worry.

  • Making tricky levels work safely and effectively

    Sloping sections can make for stunning outdoor spaces, but they come with unique structural challenges. We create smart, practical designs that make the most of your levels while keeping everything stable and compliant.

Why choose Kotare Designs for landscaping projects?

  • Nearly 20 years of structural and civil engineering experience

  • Background as a landscape gardener — understanding outdoor builds from both sides

  • Practical, cost-effective designs tailored to your site and budget

  • Consent-ready plans and peer-reviewed designs for peace of mind

  • Local expertise across Wellington, Kāpiti, Palmerston North and the Wairarapa

Planning a landscaping project?

Whether you’re putting in a small garden wall, a new pergola or a full backyard makeover, getting the structural side right saves headaches (and money) later.