Acoustic Leak Detection
Pinpoint the leak before anyone digs
Since 2015Own locators, hydro-vac & diggersAuckland · Franklin · North Waikato
What it is
Listening equipment placed on the ground and on pipe fittings picks up the sound a pressurised water leak makes underground. Correlating that noise between two points pins the leak to within a short distance, so only that spot gets dug.
When you need it
- Your water bill has jumped and nothing visible is leaking.
- The meter keeps turning with every tap in the property shut off.
- A plumber has found the loss but cannot say where the pipe is leaking.
What you get
- The leak position marked on the ground, with depth where known.
- A short report with photos, readings and what was tested.
- A quote to excavate and repair that one spot, if you want it.
Find Hidden Leaks Fast — Without Digging or Guesswork
Even the smallest underground water leak can waste thousands of litres a day, drive up water bills, and cause significant damage if left unresolved. Utility Works are Auckland’s water leak detection specialists, using advanced acoustic leak detection technology to locate leaks in buried and pressurised water systems with pinpoint accuracy.
Our experienced technicians operate throughout Auckland, Franklin, and North Waikato, providing non-invasive water leak detection for mains, service lines, and complex underground networks. Whether you’re a contractor, council, or property owner, we’ll help you find the source — fast — and prepare for clean, lasting repairs.
How it works
How acoustic leak detection works
The leak makes a sound
Water escaping under pressure through a crack or joint creates a distinct noise that travels along the pipe.
We listen for it
Ground microphones and acoustic correlators pick that sound up through concrete, asphalt and several metres of soil, and narrow it between two points.
We confirm, then dig once
Pipe tracing and isolation testing confirm the spot, so excavation opens one small hole — exactly where the leak is.
Stop Water Loss Fast — Book Your Acoustic Leak Detection Today
Free, no-obligation quote · Mon–Fri 7am–5pm · Auckland, Franklin & North Waikato
Google reviews
What customers say
“Prompt service & fair pricing. Tony and his team — sharp eye for detail and out of the box problem solving paired with a high standard of workmanship.”
Richard La Trobe · Google · October 2026
“Really happy with the work to install our underground services. Highly recommend.”
Sarah Walworth · Google · October 2026
“The only company we trust… reliable, cost effective, and honest service from A to Z. 100% confidence in this company.”
Darrel Assink · Google · September 2026
Our Projects
1–2 of 4
South Auckland
Retirement Village Water Leak Detection & Repair
A large retirement village of 58 units in South Auckland had been experiencing underground water loss. Utility Works conducted system loss testing, system mapping, mark-out and CCTV/sonde pinpointing of joint and tapping band positions, isolation point installation, followed by acoustic and infrared detection works. Once leak positions were located, we implemented strategic excavation and pipe repairs, followed by ground reinstatement and site clean-up. This successful project resulted in the accurate locating and repair of five leak positions, and provided substantial water savings to the client.
Read the case study
East Tāmaki, Auckland
Industrial Property Water Loss Investigation
A large, 14-hectare industrial property in East Tāmaki was experiencing a high-volume water-loss issue. The busy site was losing in excess of 170 L/min and substantial works had already been undertaken to attempt locating the leak before Utility Works was engaged. We undertook a strategic approach to the investigation including a full site audit and partial mapping of the 180mm mains and isolation testing, followed by IR, GPR, and acoustic works which enabled us to pinpoint the leak, have the position excavated, and the leak repaired overnight.
Read the case studyWorth a read first
Guides & advice
1–3 of 6
Acoustic Leak Detection Explained: How We Find Water Leaks Without Digging Up Your Property
A water leak underground doesn't always show itself. There's no puddle on the surface, no obvious wet patch — just a rising water bill and a nagging feeling that something isn't right.
Read the guide
How Acoustic Leak Detection Works on Plastic vs Metal Pipes
Finding hidden water leaks quickly and accurately is critical to preventing water loss, property damage, and costly repairs.
Read the guide
How to Find an Underground Water Leak in NZ: Signs, the Meter Test and Who to Call
Most underground water leaks start small and stay out of sight. By the time water shows at the surface it may have been running for weeks, and every litre has gone through your meter. This guide covers the signs we see most often across Auckland, Franklin and the Waikato, how to run the meter test that confirms a leak, how to work out which side of the meter it is on, and who to call for each situation.
Read the guideFAQ'S
How does acoustic leak detection find leaks underground?
Is acoustic leak detection suitable for all pipe materials?
Do you provide repairs once the leak is located?
Can you assess larger water networks?
Ready when you are.
Tell us what you’re seeing or what you’re planning. You’ll get a straight answer, a free quote and one crew that does the whole job.
Mon–Fri 7am–5pm · Waiau Pa, South Auckland · Auckland, Franklin & North Waikato