When you're planning a new driveway, one of the first questions you'll ask is, "How much is this going to cost?"

At Letton Kerb & Channel, we know every driveway is different. That's why we don't believe in one-size-fits-all pricing. 

With more than 35 years of experience delivering concrete solutions across Canterbury and throughout New Zealand, we've seen firsthand how factors like site conditions, driveway finishes and ground preparation can all influence the final investment.

While every project requires a site inspection for an accurate quote, here's what homeowners should know before budgeting for a new concrete driveway.

As a general guide, a standard concrete driveway requiring full excavation, base preparation and a new concrete pour typically starts from around:

One of the biggest cost factors is what's already on site.

Removing gravel or soil is relatively straightforward, while demolishing old asphalt or concrete requires additional labour, machinery, transport and disposal.

Naturally, this increases the overall project cost.

Canterbury's ground conditions vary significantly depending on where you live.

Areas such as Rolleston often have stable, compact ground that requires less preparation. However, parts of eastern Christchurch, New Brighton and Burwood can have sandy or liquefaction-prone soils that require additional excavation and base preparation before concrete can be installed correctly.

Investing in proper preparation is essential to achieving a driveway that performs well for decades.

Properties in rural Canterbury or more isolated locations may require additional travel time and waste disposal, which can influence pricing.

Similarly, if access is restricted and machinery can't easily reach the site, additional labour may be required.

Plain concrete remains the most economical option, but many homeowners choose exposed aggregate for its premium appearance.

Exposed aggregate involves additional processes including surface washing, acid cleaning and sealing, making it more labour intensive than standard finishes.

Premium decorative stones can also increase material costs.

For many Christchurch homeowners, the answer is yes.

Exposed aggregate offers:

To keep it looking its best we, at Letton Kerb & Channel, recommend sealing exposed aggregate after installation and reapplying sealer approximately every two to three years, depending on traffic and exposure.

Sometimes a repair is all that's needed.

Small cracks, chips or isolated damage can often be repaired without replacing the entire driveway.

However, if cracking has been caused by underlying ground movement, tree roots or subsidence, replacing the affected concrete is usually the better long-term solution. Repairing the surface alone won't fix the problem underneath.

Unlike many contractors, Letton Kerb & Channel combines decades of experience with specialist machinery and expertise developed across residential, commercial and civil projects.

Whether we're installing a residential driveway in Christchurch or delivering large-scale infrastructure projects across New Zealand, our approach is the same: quality workmanship, honest advice and the right solution for every site.

We also understand Canterbury's unique ground conditions, council requirements and drainage considerations, allowing us to deliver driveways that not only look great but are built to last.

The best way to understand the cost of your new driveway is with an on-site assessment.

Our team will inspect your property, discuss your preferred finish, assess access and ground conditions, and provide a transparent, obligation-free quote.

If you're considering a new concrete or exposed aggregate driveway in Christchurch or Canterbury, the team at Letton Kerb & Channel is here to help.

Contact us today for a consultation: 03 344 1597