The State of Practice in SSI Modelling in New Zealand: Insights from an Engineering Profession Survey

Abstract

There is a relatively brief consideration for soil-structure interaction (SSI) effect in the New Zealand guidelines for the seismic assessment of structures. Recent earthquake events including the Kaikōura earthquake of 2016 have resulted in significant foundation and structural damage, highlighting the need to better understand the effects of SSI when assessing structures. To that end, a New Zealand engineering profession survey was carried out in 2020 to investigate the state of practice in SSI modelling. The survey used a mixed methods, sequential explanatory research design to collect, analyse, and integrate both quantitative and qualitative data. The survey involved participants from members of NZSEE, SESOC, and NZGS across the country. This paper provides a brief overview of key trends and common challenges as reported by New Zealand practitioners in regard to SSI modelling.