Pond Installer
Canterbury
NZ's only Certified Aquascape Contractor
Custom ponds and pondless waterfalls across Canterbury
Southern Waterscapes is New Zealand's only Certified Aquascape Contractor - every build follows internationally proven ecosystem technology, not guesswork. Custom ecosystem ponds and pondless waterfalls built across Selwyn, Christchurch, Waimakariri and Canterbury.
What Does It Cost?
Pondless waterfalls from $13,500. Ecosystem ponds from $15,500.
Every build is custom-quoted - these figures give you a starting point, not a ceiling. Pricing depends on size, site complexity, and inclusions. Full pricing is provided after a site visit.
Why Hire a Certified Aquascape Contractor
Not every pond installer is the same. The Certified Aquascape Contractor credential is held by a small, exclusive network of builders trained directly in Aquascape's proven ecosystem technology - Southern Waterscapes is the only one in New Zealand.
What that means for you:
Proven systems, not guesswork. Every build uses Aquascape's tested pump, filtration, and reservoir technology - designed specifically for biological balance and long-term performance.
Built to last. Firestone EPDM liner with a 20-year warranty, professional-grade components, and construction methods refined across every project we complete.
Genuine expertise. Matt brings a background as a former zoo keeper, plant nursery worker, and landscaper into every build - a deep understanding of how living systems and built environments work together.
Two Types of Water Features, Built to Suit Your Property
Ecosystem Ponds
Self-sustaining, chemical-free garden ponds that support goldfish, plants, and local wildlife. A properly built ecosystem pond provides the biological filtration and water quality goldfish need to thrive long-term.
Pondless Waterfalls
The sound and movement of flowing water without an open pond. Family-safe, low-maintenance, and suited to gardens of any size - water disappears into a hidden underground reservoir and recirculates continuously. Want to understand the difference between the two? Read our pond vs pondless waterfall guide before getting in touch.
What's Involved in a Professional Build
Every Southern Waterscapes installation includes:
Custom design suited to your property and landscape
Excavation using our own machinery — no waiting on subcontractors
Firestone ELEVATE EPDM liner with geotextile underlay
Aquascape pump, filtration, and reservoir systems sized correctly for your feature
Natural stone and rockwork sourced for a permanent, authentic look
LED lighting and auto-fill valve as standard
Full commissioning before we leave site
Serving Canterbury Homeowners
We're based in Rolleston and build across:
Selwyn
Christchurch
Waimakariri
Wider Canterbury
“We couldn’t be happier with our pondless water feature. Matt is a true artist, really knowledgeable, great to work with and the results are stunning.”
Ready to Get Started?
Every build starts with a conversation. Tell us a little about your property and what you have in mind - we'll come back to you within one business day.
Ecosystem Water Features - Frequently Asked Questions
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A Certified Aquascape Contractor has been specifically trained in Aquascape's ecosystem technology - proper pump sizing, biological filtration, and construction methods that are proven to create long-term balance in a pond or waterfall. A general landscaper may build something that looks similar but lacks the engineering behind it, which often leads to algae problems, pump failures, or leaks down the track.
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Yes - we build across Selwyn, Christchurch, Waimakariri and the wider Canterbury region. We're based in Rolleston, so we're well positioned to serve clients throughout Canterbury.
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Yes. While we offer standard packages for typical residential properties, we also assess and quote for sites with more complexity - difficult access, larger scale, or unusual terrain.
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It depends on the size and complexity of the build. A small pondless waterfall can take around two days on site, while larger ecosystem pond builds can take a week or more. We'll give you a clear timeframe as part of your quote.
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Get in touch through our contact page and we'll arrange a conversation about your site and what you have in mind. From there we can discuss whether a site visit is needed.
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Yes - ecosystem ponds are well suited to goldfish. A properly built Aquascape ecosystem pond provides the biological filtration and water quality goldfish need to thrive long-term, without the need for harsh chemicals.