Through performance testing and auditing, NZSTI will objectively evaluate the playing surface quality of natural and synthetic turf surfaces. By association with the Dutch international material testing laboratory, ISA Sport, NZSTI is fully accredited to provide performance testing of synthetic services (both laboratory and field), to several world sporting associations including FIFA. NZSTI is one of only two laboratories in the world accredited to World Bowls for surface performance testing. 

Natural Turf Testing
Natural turf auditing services include sportsfield quality and safety assessments. Such testing allows clients to objectively evaluate the current standard of facilities, define and monitor levels of service from maintenance contractors, bench mark quality over time and establish priorities for maintenance expenditure. In combination with turf maintenance consultancy this provides a mechanism to identify limiting factors to facility performance, inform maintenance strategies and evaluate the effectiveness of investment in playing surfaces. Sportsfield quality assessment is most effective when repeated at regular intervals (ideally six-monthly). Sportsfield quality standards can be used both to objectively define appropriate levels of service from contractors and to independently monitor performance against those standards.

Synthetic Turf Testing
NZSTI offers an extensive testing service for all types of synthetic materials including synthetic turf for hockey, soccer, rugby, tennis and bowls, and polyurethane synthetic for athletic tracks.

Testing can be undertaken at various stages during both the installation, and throughout the life of the surface.

Testing during installation includes quality assurance and compliance field testing. At the completion of installation the surface can be tested to ensure compliance with the sport’s world governing body’s standards, including: soccer (FIFA), athletics (IAAF), tennis (ITF), hockey (FIH), rugby (IRB), and bowls (WBB). NZSTI’s association with ISA Sport gives access to fully accredited testing for all of the above sports.

Testing during the life of the synthetic surface includes wear and stress testing for evaluation of maintenance requirements and for determining the life expectancy of the surface.