Christchurch & Canterbury
Web Development Christchurch
We're Orchid — a UX design and custom development agency that builds web applications, platforms and tools for businesses that have outgrown off-the-shelf software. We work with Christchurch and Canterbury businesses across construction, maritime, property and more.
What We Build
Custom software, not templates
We're not a WordPress shop. We build custom web applications using modern frameworks (React, Node.js, MongoDB, Express) that scale with your business. Every project starts with UX design — we map your users, your workflows, and your data before writing a line of code.
Web applications
Cloud-based platforms your team and customers use daily
Data dashboards
Real-time operational views that replace spreadsheets and guesswork
Industry-specific tools
Calculators, configurators, and workflow systems designed for your exact process
Mobile apps
Native iOS and Android apps that integrate with your web platform
API integrations
Connecting Xero, inventory, CRM, and other systems into one workflow
UX/UI design
Research-driven design, wireframes, and prototypes validated with real users
Christchurch Projects
Built for Canterbury, used worldwide
Counterfactual — Christchurch
Actually™ — Real-time building cost and carbon calculator
A cloud-based web application that gives architects and planners real-time cost estimates, carbon footprint data, and building performance metrics. Integrates BIM with cost and carbon data, importing directly from ArchiCAD and Revit. Replaced manual post-design budgeting with live data.
Built with: React, Node.js, cloud infrastructure, BIM data integration
HamiltonJet — Christchurch
Overwatch — Real-time vessel intelligence platform
A fleet monitoring web application and companion iOS/Android apps giving vessel operators real-time visibility into performance, fuel efficiency, and maintenance from anywhere in the world. Used across ferry, aquaculture, search and rescue, and offshore operations worldwide.
Built with: React, Flutter (iOS/Android), real-time data streaming, REST API integration
Precious Lists — Christchurch
Cataloguing app for valuables and collections
A mobile and web application that helps individuals and collectors catalogue valuable items with photos, documents, insurance records, and provenance history. Includes encryption-based security, insurance documentation generation, and estate planning tools.
Built with: React, React Native, Node.js, MongoDB, encrypted cloud storage
How We Work
From idea to live product
Discovery workshop
We spend a half-day understanding your business, your users, and the problem you’re solving. You leave with a clear scope and a realistic plan.
UX design
Wireframes and prototypes before any code. You see and test the product before we build it.
Build
Iterative development in 2-week sprints. You see progress every fortnight, not just at the end.
Launch and support
We deploy, monitor, and iterate. We don’t disappear after launch.
Why Christchurch Businesses Choose Orchid
Your New Zealand development partner
New Zealand agency
We’re a local NZ agency with clients across Canterbury and the South Island. We understand the local business landscape.
Custom-built software
Not themes, not templates, not no-code workarounds. Real applications with real code that you own.
UX-led development
Every project starts with design research. We build the right thing before we build the thing right.
Full-stack delivery
Web, mobile, API, and integrations from one team. No subcontracting, no handoff gaps.
Full IP ownership
You own all code, designs, and data. No lock-in, no licensing fees.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How much does web development cost in Christchurch?
Custom web application projects typically range from $15,000 for a focused tool or MVP to $150,000+ for a full platform with mobile apps and integrations. The biggest factor is complexity. We scope every project with a paid discovery workshop so you get an accurate estimate before committing.
How long does a web development project take?
Most custom web applications take 8–16 weeks from kickoff to launch. A simpler tool or MVP can be faster (4–6 weeks). Complex platforms with mobile apps and integrations typically take 4–6 months. We work in 2-week sprints so you see progress throughout.
Do you build mobile apps as well?
Yes. We build native iOS and Android apps using Flutter, alongside web applications using React and Node.js. Many of our projects (Overwatch, Precious Lists) include both web and mobile components that share a common backend.
Can you integrate with our existing systems?
Yes — API integration is a core part of what we do. We’ve connected web apps to BIM tools (ArchiCAD, Revit), vessel telemetry systems, mapping services (Google Maps), and business platforms like Xero. If your system has an API, we can integrate with it.
Do we own the code?
Yes. You retain full intellectual property ownership of all code, designs, and assets. No lock-in, no licensing fees.
Ready to build something great?
Tell us what you're building. We'll come back with an honest assessment of scope, timeline, and cost — no obligation.
- 17+ years building custom software
- 250+ projects delivered across NZ
- 100% NZ owned and operated
- Full IP ownership on every project
