Tonkin + Taylor designed its first large dam, Whau Valley in Whangarei, which was constructed in 1967. In the decades since, we’ve developed concepts, assessed feasibility, designed, and provided construction support for many dams, stopbanks, and large water infrastructure for hydropower, irrigation, flood detention, and industry schemes.

Dam projects draw on core expertise across our consultancy and testing companies under the careful eye of our dam engineering experts.

Tonkin + Taylor are leaders in dam design – large and small. We’ve designed 18 large dams, including these landmark projects:

At Tonkin + Taylor, we’re proud to be recognised as thought leaders in dam engineering across New Zealand and beyond. Our experts have played a central role in shaping the New Zealand Dam Safety Guidelines (NZSOLD DSGs)—contributing to every version of the guidelines as lead authors, technical reviewers, and working group members.

Our influence extends beyond technical expertise. Tonkin + Taylor professionals have held key positions on the NZSOLD Management Committee and ICOLD Technical Committees. Through these appointments, we help guide national dam safety policy, foster collaboration with international bodies like ICOLD, and promote recommended practice across the industry.

This deep involvement ensures our clients benefit from dam safety solutions that are not only technically robust but also aligned with the latest regulatory standards and industry insights.