Oamaru Stone - New Zealand’s Limestone since 1900

An entirely natural material, limestone is a sedimentary rock composed of calcium carbonate in the form of mineral calcite. The Oamaru limestone from Parkside Quarries has been created from minuscule marine particles from the nearby ocean, compacted by pressure millions of years ago. Then with the natural pressures of the earth's tectonic plate activity, rises and falls of sea level, erosion and deposition, finally pushed above sea level. Undoubtedly, Oamaru limestone is one of the purest building materials available.

Around 10% of the earth’s crust is limestone making it an incredibly abundant resource. Parkside Quarries, where Oamaru limestone is sourced, has been operating commercially for over 100 years. We still quarry from a pit opened in 1991 and presently quarry from an additional 2 pits which produce slightly different qualities. There are further areas within the operation from which we can mine in the future.

Dependability

Compared to many other building materials, limestone provides dependability like no other. This characteristic can be demonstrated by detailing its use throughout history. Limestone has been used as a building and surfacing material for centuries. The Greeks and Romans used Limestone in the building of numerous statues and buildings thousands of years ago. In New Zealand, there are many examples of iconic structures made from Oamaru limestone such as town halls, banks, churches, and schools.

Versatility

Limestone can be used as panels for cladding, interior walling, tiling, or for other surfacing purposes. Limestone is a perfect addition to a landscaping project. It can be carved, shaped, and formed in a way to add a sculptural element to your project such as a fireplace, window and door surround, columns. Whether you are looking for a classic block or more crafted limestone features, limestone provides every project with a unique and natural aesthetic.

Cost-Effectiveness

An entirely plentiful material, efficiently extracted and local, limestone is relatively inexpensive even once the cost to transport from Oamaru is added. Versatile, dependable, and cost-effective, Oamaru Limestone is shaping up to be a top contender on the list of possibilities for use in your building project (Not to mention we are not even done covering its advantages)!

Eco-Friendliness

Due to its abundance, the use of limestone in buildings and structures can be considered environmentally conscious. In using it, we are not stripping the Earth of a rare or scare material. More than that though, we are conscious of resource-efficient management of this material and operate a circular economy that sees offcuts, shavings, and lime dust all repurposed as a soil conditioner or to assist with the digestive health of animals and granivorous birds.

Stand by for a look at some of the creative projects featuring limestone around the globe, perhaps there’ll be some inspiration there for you.

For more information about Oamaru Limestone please contact Parkside Quarries.