New Zealand is well known for its rugged landscapes, steep hill country, dense bush, and remote work sites. For construction crews, utility providers, landowners, and civil contractors, reaching these hard-to-access locations can be one of the biggest challenges of a project. That’s where OTS Group’s specialised track machines come in — purpose-built to go places traditional vehicles simply can’t.
With decades of experience in tracked machine transport and off-road operations, OTS Group has developed one of the country’s most versatile fleets for reaching remote and difficult terrain. Here’s how our machines help keep projects moving, even in New Zealand’s harshest environments.
1. What Makes Track Machines Essential in NZ?
Designed for Stability on Steep, Soft, or Uneven Ground
New Zealand’s landscape varies drastically within short distances — one minute you’re on firm gravel, the next you’re facing clay, bog, or loose hillside soil. Tracked machines spread their weight over a larger surface area, meaning:
- They don’t sink into soft ground
- They can operate safely on slopes
- They maintain traction where wheeled vehicles lose grip
This makes them ideal for forestry blocks, farm tracks, remote civil sites, and storm-damaged areas where standard transport simply can’t reach.
Lower Ground Pressure, Higher Access Capability
Ground pressure is one of the biggest limiting factors in remote access work. Heavy machinery with wheels creates deep impressions, damages terrain, and risks bogging down. Track machines distribute weight evenly, reducing ground pressure and allowing them to traverse:
- Boggy wetlands
- Soft sand
- Steep inclines
- Forestry slash and debris
- Uneven rural access tracks
This reliability is why our clients choose OTS Group for everything from emergency callouts to planned civil works in rural or undeveloped areas.
2. The OTS Group Track Machine Fleet
OTS operates a diverse fleet of specialist track machines built to handle extreme terrain. Each machine is selected for its reliability, stability, and ability to support a wide range of industries across New Zealand.
Multipurpose Track Carriers
Our carriers are designed to move people, tools, and materials into areas unreachable by standard light vehicles. They also allow safe and efficient transport of equipment for:
- Civil construction crews
- Utility and power teams
- Emergency access operations
- Arborists and vegetation management teams
These machines fill the gap between walking access and full excavation machinery — perfect for rapid deployment when conditions are unpredictable.
Tracked Excavators & Attachments
For civil works, forestry, and land development, tracked excavators provide stability and digging capability even on loose, steep ground. OTS Group frequently transports these machines for clients through our Machinery Transport service, ensuring they arrive on location safely and ready to work.
Specialised Off-Road Machinery
In certain situations — such as damaged forestry roads, flood zones, or remote farmland — highly specialised track machines are required. OTS Group has access to a range of units designed for:
- Heavy lifting
- Vegetation management
- Site preparation
- Emergency access after storms or slips
When standard work vehicles can’t reach a job site, these tracked units allow crews and equipment to reach areas without creating further environmental disturbance.
3. How Track Machines Support Civil & Construction Projects
Accessing Remote Sites for Civil Works
From retaining walls to culvert installations, many civil works begin in hard-to-reach areas. OTS Group supports contractors by providing transport, access machines, and coordination through our Construction Equipment & Machinery Transport service.
Whether it’s a hillside subdivision or a rural bridge repair, our track machines ensure crews can get to the job quickly and safely.
Vegetation Clearance & Utility Access
Utility providers, arborists, and vegetation management teams often need to reach lines, towers, and areas where no formed roads exist. Track machines provide safe access even during wet conditions or after storms, when soil stability becomes a major concern.
With our experienced operators and fleet capability, OTS Group is a reliable partner for utility and vegetation contractors who require dependable access in all conditions.
Transporting Machines Into Remote Areas
Track machines are only half the solution — getting them to the site is a challenge of its own. OTS Group specialises in Tracked Machine Transport, using purpose-built units and trailers to move these machines safely.
From Auckland inner-city construction sites to rugged Canterbury access roads, our team is equipped for efficient long-distance and local machine transport.
4. Supporting Emergency and Rapid Response Work
Storms, Flooding & Slip Events
Severe weather is becoming increasingly common across New Zealand. When storms cause slips, washouts, or blocked access routes, track machines play a vital role in:
- Transporting emergency crews
- Reaching isolated properties
- Clearing debris
- Stabilising temporary access
OTS Group regularly works with local contractors and emergency responders to restore access quickly and safely after adverse events.
Remote Recoveries and Hard-to-Reach Breakdowns
Standard recovery trucks can’t reach every location. For breakdowns or stranded vehicles in remote areas, track machines may be required to assist in recovery or access.
Through our wider services network, OTS Group provides access and specialised support for teams attending these challenging sites.
5. Why Contractors Choose OTS Group for Remote Access
Experience in NZ’s Most Challenging Conditions
OTS Group has a long history of operating in steep, muddy, and unpredictable terrain. Our operators understand how to work safely and effectively in these environments, ensuring minimal impact on surrounding land.
Integrated Transport + Access Solutions
One of OTS Group’s biggest strengths is offering both the transport and the tracked access capability. This means contractors get:
- One point of contact
- Streamlined logistics
- Less downtime
- Faster project delivery overall
Nationwide Capability
With strong operational bases in Auckland and Christchurch, plus regular long-distance routes, OTS Group supports projects across both islands — even in remote locations where specialist access is essential.
Need Reliable Access to Difficult Terrain?
Whether you’re managing a civil project, forestry block, remote property, or utility site, OTS Group’s tracked machine capability ensures you can access areas that most vehicles can’t. From planning and transport to on-site support, we provide safe, reliable access solutions for New Zealand’s toughest terrain.
To discuss your project or arrange tracked machine transport, contact our team at OTS Group or call 0800 22 00 33.