Business North - April 2013

April 2013

www.waterfordpress.co.nz

Sailing away Page 17

Auckland seeks $1b for Wynard development Chris Hutching Waterfront Auckland is seeking up to $1 billion in investment at its Wynyard Quarter developments.

The council controlled organisation has appointed Colliers to market the project Rothschild in Australia and Cameron Partners in Auckland will act as financial advisers, to jointly handle expressions of interest.

They will advise Waterfront Auckland over the selection process of private investors and developers to take part in the “opportunity” for $1 billion in investment - the estimated completion value of the potential developments.

Waterfront Auckland is seeking investment partners to develop the first parcel of 3.25 ha of waterfront land including “a hub for innovation and tech start-ups”, residential units and a five-star waterfront hotel.

John Goddard, international sales director at Colliers International, says the Wynyard Quarter is New Zealand’s largest urban regeneration project outside Christchurch.

The process will involve parties taking long-term ground leases from Waterfront Auckland, which owns the freehold interest in the sites. Waterfront Auckland will retain a role as master planner.

Total redevelopment is expected to take place over 20 years, possibly supporting 20,000 full time jobs in Auckland.

The first phase of the urban regeneration of Wynyard Quarter was opened to the public in

August 2011, with the Jellicoe Precinct of public spaces and infrastructure.

A new headquarters for ASB is under construction along with development of the North Wharf hospitality precinct. Fonterra has also announced its new headquarters will be constructed at a Viaduct site.

The new development money being sought will be directed to the 15ha block bound by Jellicoe, Madden, Halsey and Daldy Streets, to be known as Wynyard Central.

A 5500sqm site on the western edge of the Viaduct Harbour has been earmarked for a five-star hotel. Expressions of interest for stage one close on May 14, 2013.

Meanwhile more “green” building is included in one of the proposed rules in the Auckland Draft Unitary Plan.

A new building that is 5000sqm or greater and is used 80% or more as an office, must be designed and constructed to a minimum 5-star level from the New Zealand Green Building Council Green Star Office Tool (2009).

The rule does not apply to extensions and alterations, or converting an existing building to office use. If the building does not meet these requirements, the plan provides a set of ranked criteria for alternative assessment.

Colliers researchers suggest this may see an increase in asking rents for tenants, developments just below 5000sqm threshold and/or deferment of land value growth as the increased costs are possibly factored in by reduced land prices.

Broadband connection easier Delivering internet access to apartment dwellers can be crucial to maintaining occupancies.

Wireless Nation is touting a “Hotwire” wireless communication product that it says can help landlords retain apartment tenants who might otherwise seek better services in other buildings.

The technology is called a multiplexer which is installed at street level connecting the broadband cable to the building’s existing copper telephone lines, and converts signals from digital to analogue.

The existing lines can maintain speeds of 100Mbps Three Auckland buildings have converted to Hotwire - 85 Beach Road, 30 Heather Street in Parnell, and Perspective Apartments in Ponsonby.

INSIDE

“The Beach was an awkward building. We found it incredibly difficult to find a good technical solution and residents were actually moving out because of the poor internet service,” says Tony Woodworth of First Street Body Corp Management, which manages the buildings.

Wireless Nation estimates more than 20,000 people live in apartments in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. It says coordinating new untrafast broadband cable connections for each apartment will be daunting for building managers .

The link with apartment residents had been overlooked in the enthusiasm to bring in the faster broadband, Wireless Nation says.

Viaduct project wins acclaim - PAGE 2

Employees more satisfied - PAGE 2

A new twist on climbing....

New Zealand adventure activity company Sheer Adventure will be promoting its new ‘Twister’ tower at international trade shows this year as it looks to build on its offshore success. The tower is the latest innovation from the Christchurch-based company whose colourful Clip ’N Climb climbing arenas have revolutionised indoor climbing.

Story, page 3

Infant formula plant at capacity - PAGE 5

Thriving in Whangarei - PAGE 14

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2

NEWS »

Business North / April 2013

Acclaim for viaduct project Karen Phelps

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The Newmarket Viaduct Replacement Project, which was officially completed on March 15, has attracted international attention due to a world-first build and deconstruct sequence.

NZ Transport Agency’s state highways manager for Auckland and Northland, Tommy Parker, says that because of the importance of the Southern Motorway the motorway was kept open for the duration of the project and instead the old viaduct was removed and simultaneously replaced.

The project involved stabilising the whole structure so that it could be cut in half down its centre separating the north and southbound lanes while ensuring that each half remained safely functional without its other half for support.”

The NGA Newmarket Alliance comprising NZTA, Leighton Contractors, Fulton Hogan, VSL NZ, URS, Beca, Tonkin & Taylor and Boffa Miskell planned the project in four stages.

Stage one saw a new southbound viaduct built, parallel to and slightly overlapping, the old southbound viaduct. During the next stage traffic was moved on to the new southbound lanes and the old southbound structure was deconstructed.

In the gap left by the removal of the old southbound structure, the new northbound viaduct was built. Then traffic was moved on to the new northbound lanes and the old northbound viaduct was removed.

Parker says a key challenge was health and safety as contractors were working within metres of the busy live motorway at heights of up to 23 metres over a built-up residential and commercial suburb with a train track and main arterial route carrying another 55,000 vehicles a day.

A large 860-tonne 140m-long launching gantry was a key aspect of the project. During the project the gantry lifted more than 900 segments of concrete each weighing between 50-110 tonnes.

Parker says the project, which spanned four and a half years, is one of New Zealand’s largest civil contracting projects.

The project has won several awards including a 2012 New Zealand Contractors Federation Safety Award in the category of safety leadership for projects over $10m and several community engagement awards. It also won the 2012 World Demolition Award in the civil category.

Prime Minister John Key cuts the ribbon on one of the supporting piers of the new Newmarket Viaduct. On the left is Geoff Dangerfield (chief executive NZ Transport Agency) and on the right is Paul Goldsmith (National MP), Gerry Brownlee (Minister of Transport), and Naida Glavish (Ngati Whatua).

Now that it is completed Parker says the project will result in safer and more efficient travel for the 160,000 vehicles which pass through this section of motorway each day.

The viaduct is also now seismically strong enough to survive a one in 2500 year seismic event (previously it could have survived a one in 200 year event).

“This is the first time that the deconstruction of an existing viaduct has taken place in an urban environment next to a busy functional motorway without interrupting traffic flow,” says Parker.

“We believe that this project has set an industry benchmark for a number of activities including working at heights, heavy lifting, working alongside motorway traffic, and community and stakeholder engagement. This project has put New Zealand on the map in terms of these types of projects.”

The Newmarket Viaduct Replacement Project is just part of a number of improvements to transport connections around and through Auckland.

Just a few kilometres away work is already underway on the Waterview Connection and work will start shortly on widening and raising the causeway on State Highway 16. Both projects form

part of the Western Ring Route Road of National Significance.

Parker says that when these two projects are completed the 47 kilometre Western Ring Route will be finished providing an alternative motorway running from Manukau to Albany.

“Auckland Council has earmarked northwest Auckland and southwest Auckland as major growth areas.

“The Western Ring Route will improve transport connections between these areas as well as Auckland International Airport, which will then have a direct link with the CBD.” Newmarket Viaduct - facts and figures • Project duration: 49 months • Project cost: $244 million • Length of bridge: 690 metres • Number of segments: 498 • Number of columns: 24 • Length of stressing strands used: 544 km • Reinforced steel used: 4200 tonnes • Total concrete poured: 30,000m3

NZ employee satisfaction rising - survey Karen Phelps Despite feeling under greater stress, New Zealand employees are also experiencing greater degrees of job satisfaction, according to the latest Hudson Salary & Employment Insights survey.

Roman Rogers, executive general manager of Hudson New Zealand, says this discovery was surprising but he puts it down to businesses doing better when it comes to communicating their strategies to employees in difficult times leading to higher engagement and optimism.

“It’s all hands to the pumps,” says Rogers.

“We’re busy and working hard but by working together we are getting things done,” he says, describing the attitude that came across from those employees surveyed.

The annual survey, which this year surveyed 1392 employers and 1328 employees in New Zealand, also indicated a marked shift in what is important to employees today in contrast with several years ago.

“During the global financial crisis employees were telling us money wasn’t the most important thing.

“They realised getting more money was not a reality so decided to focus instead on career development opportunities during that time. Now remuneration is the number one priority,” he says.

The survey also showed that tough economic conditions are putting pressure on employers to manage their budgets tightly across all areas of business, including in the areas of hiring and retention.

Just 21.1% of employers say they always replace roles when a team member leaves, with 67.2% distributing the workload amongst the remaining team members instead.

Consequently 77% of employees surveyed said that they had taken on greater or new responsibilities.

Close to half reported that they are more stressed than a year ago and over half are actively or passively looking for new roles.

Rogers says the fact so many employees are seeking new roles is not unusual but says that employers should be careful how far they push employees with 90% of employees surveyed saying that they are working more than 40 hours per week on a consistent basis.

“You can only wind this so far until it causes negative impact on the workplace. The trick for organisations is to think of new ways to be more efficient.”

Rogers says that for those businesses unable to provide financial remuneration, employers should look for other ways to express their appreciation in order to retain staff.

“Companies need to identify which roles make the biggest difference to the growth of their organisation.

They then need to reward the top performers in those critical roles.”

Other factors which rated highly for employees were a company culture that made them happy, increased annual leave and flexible work practices, such as being able to work from home.

Rogers identifies two key challenges businesses need to keep in mind for the future: the pending

retirement of the baby boomer generation and people heading off on their OE. “Baby boomers have been putting their retirement on hold as for many their finances were affected during the global crisis.

“Now they have recouped some of that loss and retirement is on their minds once again. That will be a massive shift in our workforce. The challenge for employers will be how equipped they are to capture that knowledge so the business keeps performing.”

Rogers says many businesses need to make a key shift in their beliefs around where, when and how work is undertaken to keep up with the times and perhaps retain such staff on a part time basis.

“Organisations need to shake the belief that visibility means productivity. You don’t necessarily need an employee in the workplace for them to be contributing. With technological advances now for some industries it is easy to connect with their people off site.”

With so many employees actively seeking change in work or roles Rogers says employers need to be smarter about how they attract and retain staff: “Employers almost have to treat the potential employee as a consumer when they market job opportunities; selling the opportunity to them and getting them to understand what the career path looks like.”

He says that if employees understand their efforts will be recognised and rewarded, they are more likely to be engaged, work productively and contribute to a positive company culture than can survive challenging economic times.

BUSINESS PROFILE »

Business North / April 2013

3

Chch firm climbing growth spiral Jo Bailey Have you heard the one about the Irishman and the Kiwi? It’s a great tale of how Christchurch businessmen John Targett (the Irishman), and Tim Wethey (the Kiwi) combined their creative talents and industry experience to develop Clip ’N Climb - a colourful climbing arena that has revolutionised indoor climbing and is now achieving exciting global growth.

After operating successfully in New Zealand and dipping their toes into export markets, the pair, through their company Sheer Adventure have now signed manufacturing licenses with large specialist companies in Oregon, US, and Lancashire, UK to sell and manufacture the Clip ’N Climb products into US and EU markets.

This includes the full range of Clip ’N Climb’s themed climbing challenges, that, when combined with an auto-belaying system, has made the activity fun, safe and accessible for all ages.

“We created a totally new category of indoor climbing with Clip ’N Climb, but realised if we wanted to remain the market leaders we had to get out of the blocks faster than we could from one small manufacturing base in Christchurch.

“It also takes a lot of time and expense to ship products to these markets, so the only solution was to have other people do it for us,” says Targett.

Last year, Sheer Adventure and its new partners shared the cost to attend two of the world’s largest amusement industry shows which created a “huge buzz” around the Clip ’N Climb brand, he says.

“We were delighted to win an Honorable Mention in the Best New Product category at the IAAPA Attractions Expo 2012 in Orlando. It was great to have that success as first-timers, as it is not easy to stand out at these colossal shows.

“Every stand is screaming look at me, look at me. If you haven’t gone there to stand out, you’re wasting your time.”

He says there have been 268 strong sales leads for the Clip ’N Climb attraction from this event alone. “We think we’ve reached a tipping point given the level of interest and awareness created at the shows. The feedback we’re getting from our partners, particularly in the EU, is that we’re about to do some serious business and should experience exponential growth from now on.”

Clip ’N Climb attractions are already established in countries such as US, UK, Germany, Canada, Cambodia, Spain and Northern Ireland. There are sales ready to be confirmed in several more including Columbia, El Salvador and Korea.

Sheer Adventure is still servicing markets outside the US and EU with the kitset modular system it pre-fabricates at its Christchurch factory. Wethey says they plan to set up a similar manufacturing license to service the Asian market once its US and EU partnerships are more established.

“Our biggest challenge is delivering to all our markets in a timely manner, especially with competitors starting to copy our products.”

Although this is a concern, he says that Sheer Adventure has the advantage of years of research and development behind it, that has “ironed out” any issues.

Brains trust: Sheer Adventure directors, John Targett, left, and Tim Wethey with production manager, Jon Spain, right. The Christchurch company is targeting further growth in offshore markets.

Then there is the growing recognition of the company as the innovative, world-leading developer of the technology.

“We continue to be focused on originality, the ongoing development of the products and the quality of the climbing experience.

“Last year we launched three new challenges and are developing another two that are close to being ready. We are constantly pushing ahead.”

Targett and Wethey don’t claim to have the monopoly on good ideas at Sheer Adventure.

They encourage original thinking from their creative and production team who are involved in all aspects of product development.

“There are no egos here - everyone comes to the table and throws their ideas in. In the end we simply go with the best one.

“We promote a positive environment and culture, where people hopefully feel empowered,” says Targett.

In 2010, to help fund the expansion of Clip ’N Climb, Sheer Adventure sold its interest in TruBlue, a new generation auto belay with magnetic eddy current braking technology it developed in a joint

We continue to be focused on originality, the ongoing development of the products and the quality of the climbing experience.” venture with Christchurch design engineers Holmes Consulting.

It has retained the distribution rights for TruBlue to Clip ’N Climb facilities worldwide.

Targett says for the last 10 months Sheer Adventure has worked with another Christchurch company, Design Energy, on a new safety attachment system for climbers using auto belays that is “totally different” to the traditional carabiner.

It will be launched at a major international climbing conference in May 2013.

“We are in the process of applying for a patent for this device that will again, considerably improve the risk management and health and safety of climbers in the auto belay environment.”

The Sheer Adventure team is looking forward

to attending the big trade shows again this year with one of their latest climbing innovations, the ‘Twister’ tower, and will continue to support its manufacturing partners as they grow and develop new international markets.

While Clip ’N Climb looks set to become a genuine global brand, Targett says that the financial rewards are only part of the picture.

“We are definitely interested in getting a decent return for our investment, the time we’ve put in, and the risks we’ve taken.

“But at the same time you can’t put a value on the buzz we get for creating something and seeing it grow and flourish on the world stage.

“To be able to say we did that is definitely pretty special.”

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NEWS » Business Venues and Conferences

Business North / April 2013

Planning a successful conference Karen Phelps The main conference season of July to October is looming.

Dean Bradley, one of the directors of Convention Management NZ has ten tips to ensure your next conference is a success.

Plan Early. You should start organising your conference at least 12 months in advance. Planning in general is the key to a successful conference.

Sponsorship. Most conferences will rely on some form of sponsorship. Spend the first two to three months setting up sponsorship deals then you will have a budget to work with.

“Look at why you are holding the conference and the outcomes you want to achieve,” says Bradley.

Decide the Purpose of the Conference. What are you trying to achieve? Educating delegates?

Networking? Etc. Choose your Conference Organiser Carefully.

You will be working closely with your conference organiser for many months so it is important you choose the right person. Find out if the potential organiser has successfully organised similar conferences. Are they are member of Conventions and Incentives New Zealand (see www. conventionsnz.co.nz).

This professional body ensures your conference organiser is vetted and independently audited.

A good conference organiser can save you time and money. Bradley advises hiring a conference organiser is often more economical than hiring a staff member to organise the conference.

“A staff member will also have to do their own job plus organise the conference. People often underestimate how big a job organising a

conference is and we often get called in at the last minute. Hiring a conference organiser also ensures you can maximise your time on the days of the conference leaving you free to mix with delegates.”

Create a Realistic Budget. Accurate budgeting is often the biggest downfall when planning a conference, says Bradley.

“It is better to underestimate your budget then if you find you have extra funds it is a bonus.”

Big ticket items are usually venue hire, audio visual requirements, catering and social function costs.

Pick your Dates. Ensure you select dates that will not be a busy time for your industry or be in direct competition with another conference relevant to your industry that may compete for your delegates.

Select your Venue Early. Christchurch was a popular conference destination and now that this city has been taken out of the mix for a while other centres are getting booked further in advance, advises Bradley.

He says to beware that venue sales people will be trying to sell you their venue. Look at your needs and ascertain if the venue will cater for them. For example can the venue comfortably accommodate delegates? Do you require catering? Is the venue located close to accommodation if necessary?

Programme is Vital. Your programme will be your main marketing tool to draw people to the conference. Choose interesting speakers and make sure you have heard them previously if possible.

Allow Extra Time. Allow a day to set everything up and also time to pack up after the conference.

Be Conservative when Estimating Delegate Numbers. Once again it is better to err on the side of caution so you are not over investing in your conference.

Hiring a conference organiser also ensures you can maximise your time on the days of the conference leaving you free to mix with delegates.

Rotorua is a popular conference destination with plenty of attractions for delegates to enjoy.

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Looking for a venue to hold a meeting, seminar, conference, Christmas party, ball, awards ceremony, concert or show?

Consider this fabulous new venue. Seats 600 or 300 for sit down dinner, but operable walls and removable seating with numerous breakout rooms make for a very flexible space for large or small gatherings. Hire rates very reasonable.

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MANUFACTURING » GMP Pharmaceuticals

Business North / April 2013

5

Infant formula plant reaches capacity Karen Phelps A new infant formula plant opened to meet demand from China is expanding despite opening less than 12 months ago.

The $8m GMP Pharmaceuticals plant located in East Tamaki Auckland is producing 20 million cans of high quality wet dairy infant formula and is already operating at full capacity, says general manager of GMP New Zealand Minesh Patel.

“The economy in Asia is growing and we are seeing further growth,” he says.

“We are the first New Zealand company to apply strict pharmaceutical standards to infant formula. International consumers need to know they are giving a safe high quality product to their children. We really hope to set an industry benchmark here.”

The demand has come on the back of scandals over quality in infant formula produced in China meaning the Asian market has been willing to pay a premium for safe products.

Patel says that when it comes to dairy products New Zealand has a good image in Asia and worldwide for manufacturing high quality safe products.

Patel acknowledges that building a facility that provides pharmaceutical standard dairy formulas on a scale large enough to meet international demand was not easy. It required over a year’s planning and a large investment in infrastructure, experience and technology.

Fonterra supply the raw materials for the products and GMP utilises wet blended technology in order to give consistency of formula which contains 40-50 different nutrients.

The plant has been designed to be highly automated decreasing human contact with the product which is the biggest risk of contamination in the manufacturing process.

As quality control is a major buyer determinant GMP has a dedicated quality inspection department to ensure every aspect of the factories and workshops.

Full documentation can be supplied for shipping and warehousing requirements.

The $8m GMP Pharmaceuticals plant located in East Tamaki is already producing 20 million cans of high quality wet dairy infant formula a year.

“Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are in place for every aspect of production beginning with raw material storage through every step of production at the plants, including packaging and delivery of the final product.

“These SOPs have been developed to ensure that every step of the production meets approved standards and therefore provides GMP customers with premium quality products and exemplary service,” explains Patel.

A major hurdle for New Zealand business entering the Asian market with their products is lack of contacts and market knowledge.

To combat this, GMP has also set up a sister company called AUNEW, which assists their customers with every aspect of entering the Asian market including product development, sourcing

raw materials, manufacture, export documentation and the establishment of distribution channels.

GMP also offers a two storey showcase building in Beijing central where customers can present their products to the market.

GMP Pharmaceuticals is certified and licensed in both Australia and New Zealand to manufacture pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, dairy

products, restricted animal products, early childhood nutritional formulas and a range of organic foods.

The company also has a comprehensive list of international licenses including halal-certification.

Around 80% of volume is destined for the export market and produces dairy and health products for export to over 20 countries.

For all your self adhesive labels and packaging print.

Presson Labels is a proud supplier to GMP Pharmaceuticals.

The Leading Supplier of Health & Beauty Ingredients

Ph: 09 479 5070 Email: info@ingredientsplus.co.nz Website: www.ingredientsplus.com.au

24 Ashfield Road, Glenfield, Auckland, New Zealand Telephone: 09 443 2044 | Email: presson@xtra.co.nz | www.presson.co.nz

6

HOSPITALITY » Pita Pit

Business North / April 2013

Rapid expansion for food franchise Karen Phelps A franchise system that entered the New Zealand market just over five years ago has already established 33 franchises as well as moving into the Australian market.

Pita Pit was founded in Canada in 1995 with the goal of offering quality, healthy, fresh food fast.

Kiwi Chris Henderson became a regular customer at his local Pita Pit in California where he was working as a ski instructor and joined forces with fellow New Zealander Duane Dalton to bring the concept to New Zealand in 2007.

Both ex-sports teachers, the pair admit learning the business side of the operation has brought challenges but say the concept has proven so popular in the New Zealand market they have never had to advertise for franchisees.

“We recognised a gap in the market for a healthier quick casual offering.

“With the move toward low carbohydrate and fat-reduced diets, sandwich bread, pizzas and burgers are losing their popularity.

“While the pita shell is light and tasty, it is not the meal, but simply the delivery mechanism. Inside the shell are fresh vegetables and low-fat protein.

“Pita Pit is healthy food without being health food,” says Dalton.

Dalton and Henderson’s initial aim was to focus on the business lunchtime market rather than the university late night market of the overseas Pita Pit franchises.

This meant that Pita Pit systems had to be developed to suit the unique New Zealand market.

For example the decor is more sophisticated than overseas counterparts to give a more upmarket yet homely feel.

The New Zealand Pita Pits also offer a complementary base spread and toasting of pitas, aspects of the offering which differ from the overseas franchises.

Dalton says the fact that customers can actually see their pita being made reflects the consumer trend for transparency when it comes to food and its origin.

As well as walk-in customers the pair have also targeted the corporate and school lunch time markets and catering platters for parties where people can place orders which are then delivered to their site. Online ordering is also available through select Pita Pit branches and will be rolled out New Zealand wide this year.

Dalton says a key aspect of success is the personal service Pita Pit offers.

When customers place their order they are asked for their name, which is then used during the service to make the experience more personal.

The customer then customises their pita which is made fresh to order. Pita Pit also sells salads and smoothies. Dalton says Pita Pit is constantly experimenting with new products including seeking a gluten free option as well as pita pizzas.

Pita Pit has nearly 24,000 fans on its New Zealand facebook page.

Fast food franchise Pita Pit has developed systems to suit the New Zealand market.

Pita Pit 09 486 4664 duane@pitapit.co.nz www.pitapit.co.nz The pair say they are on track to open an additional 20-30 stores this year and 10 stores in Australia.

The first Australian franchise opened last December in Brisbane.

There are currently seven new stores under construction.

Dalton says they are extremely selective when it comes to selecting franchisees in order to successfully grow the brand.

“We’re very proud of how things are going.

“In excess of 60,000 people eat our product each week and we could go close to doubling that figure this year.”

While the pita shell is light and tasty, it is not the meal, but simply the delivery mechanism. Inside the shell are fresh vegetables and low-fat protein.”

Keypro Management is a project management company specialising in commercial shop fit outs.

• Our core business is the construction of all the new Pita Pits in New Zealand • We manage everything from the design and consent phase, through to the tendering, planning, building and handover process.

Keyrpo Management Brad Piper (Director) Phone 021 797 903 Email info@keypro.co.nz

Proud to be associated with Pita Pit

Aarque Group - staying at the cutting edge When print technology supplier Aarque Group became wholly New Zealand owned in 2011, it put the business on a pathway to further grow its competitive edge supplying globally recognised brands with localised sales and support strength.

“Since this time we haven’t looked back,” says company marketing supervisor Gavin Leahy.

“Our customers work in rapidly changing industries looking for innovative competitive edges themselves.

“For many global brands, delivering and supporting their technologies to New Zealand is difficult with a very wide geographic area to reach given the size of our population base.

“Aarque Group is all about delivering these technologies to print industries, matched with top kiwi service no matter where our customers are located.”

The company has 75 staff working nationally across New Zealand and three trading channels, Aarque Sign and Screen, Aarque Graphics and Frontline.

All offer a diverse range of print solutions, and the sort of expert technical advice that evolves from over 60 years in the business.

Clients come from a broad spectrum of specialised industries.

These include signage and screen printing, print bureaus and copy shops, commercial printers, exhibition and retail display, graphic design, fine art and photography, architecture and construction.

With such an extensive history the company has established very strong international alliances, offering clients a wide variety of print solutions backed with sound, objective advice.

The company prides itself on the ability to tailor solutions to meet the specific demands of customers needs.

Aarque Sign and Screen are members of the New Zealand Sign and Display Association, an organisation whose members all operate to a code of practice to maintain high standards of craftsmanship and business ethics in the sign making industry.

The company is a principal sponsor at this year’s national awards being held at the Marlborough Convention Centre in Blenheim on Saturday, April 27.

The awards attract entries from a wide range of specialised genres including vehicle signage, exhibition stands, glasswork, dimensional signage as well as work undertaken by sign writing apprentices to name just a few.

Alongside sales and logistics teams Aarque Group has nationally located technical and service specialists supporting it’s customers.

“Our technical service team are trained and certified by our key supplier partners, and for many of our partners we are their master service agent carrying out vendor warranty service. We also carry a range of comprehensive service agreements under RQCare providing ways to extend service cover and to control the cost of operating business-critical printing devices”.

The company is a single-point full service provider for all digital printing solutions from hardware and consumables to aftersales service and support.

By delivering consistently high standards of product and service it has forged longterm relationships with many of its clients, something the company works hard to maintain and values highly.

Aarque Group directors, from left, Jason Bult (Business Development Director), Peter Bult (Chief Executive Officer), and Leo Bult (Sales Director) at the company’s head office in Henderson.

• Aarque group is New Zealand’s leading provider of digital print solutions.

• For over 60 years Aarque group has been offering businesses the very best in printing technology, including the latest hi-tec machinery from top brands, all under one roof.

• A depth of knowledge and technical expertise across a diverse range of industries, from signage to GIS mapping, architecture & construction to advertising & graphic design.

• And because we’re a business based on solid family values, we’ll always go the extra mile for you.

• In short we supply your equipment, we cover your every need in consumables, and we offer you unrivalled after-sales service and support all around the country – everything in fact to ensure your business succeeds.

AUCKLAND 2a Waipareira Ave Henderson, Auckland 0610 PO Box 10402, 1Lincoln North, Waitakere 0654 T: 0508 22 77 83 or (+64 9 837 2144 international)

PALMERSTON NORTH 118 Fitzherbert Avenue Palmerston North 4410 T: 0508 22 77 83 or (+64 9 837 2144 international)

CHRISTCHURCH 87 Byron Street (Cnr Byron & Brisbane St) Sydenham, Christchurch 8023 T: 0508 22 77 83 or (+64 9 837 2144 international)

HAMILTON 239F Kahikatea Drive Frankton, Hamilton 3204 T: 0508 22 77 83 or (+64 9 837 2144 international)

WELLINGTON 42 Adelaide Road Newtown, Wellington 6021 T: 0508 22 77 83 or (+64 9 837 2144 international)

DUNEDIN 207 Castle Street Dunedin 9054 T: 0508 22 77 83 or (+64 9 837 2144 international)

8

CONTRACTING » Total Refrigeration/Arc Welding Supplies

New premises signal growth for company Kelly Deeks Commercial air conditioning and refrigeration and marine specialists Total Refrigeration is about to move into an exciting new growth phase.

This month the company is relocating from a home base to its new building in Silverdale, north of Auckland.

Total Refrigeration director Richard O’Flaherty says that it’s now time to move the business to the next level, and to help strengthen its presence in the market with its own, easily identifiable premises.

“We are very excited about the opportunity for future growth that this move will provide us, as well as allowing us to better service our client’s needs,” he says.

Total Refrigeration was established seven years ago by brothers Richard and Paul O’Flaherty.

Together the brothers bring a combined total of over 50 years’ experience and expertise in all areas of refrigeration engineering.

This ranges from design and installation to supply and maintenance in both the commercial and domestic markets, while also being recognised as specialists in the marine industry and in particular super yachts.

Being a specialist in the marine industry has also led to Total Refrigeration being appointed the New Zealand distributor for Italian marine refrigeration brand Frigoboat and marine air conditioning brand Climma.

“Frigoboat is well known for providing products of the highest quality along with Climma that is also known throughout the marine industry as one of the best in the world for product reliability and performance,” O’Flaherty says.

“Along with providing Frigoboat and Climma products, we can also design and build to measure whether it is for a pleasure craft, a Navy vessel, a container ship, or a super yachts.”

Other areas of expertise include cool rooms, wine rooms, milk vats, bottle chillers, and heat pumps and ducted systems, including installing blast freezers in several hospitals in and around Auckland.

Total Refrigeration has a long standing working

We are very excited about the opportunity for future growth that this move will provide us, as well as allowing us to better service our client’s needs.” relationship with Dairy Technology Services (DTS), and are the authorised contractor for all DTS on farm work.

Total Refrigeration do all DTS service, repair and maintenance work from Auckland through to Dargaville.

DTS also offers a refrigeration service plan which for an annual fee covers all maintenance, labour, parts and call outs in the event of a refrigeration breakdown. If a part requires replacing, then this is covered under the plan, so there are no surprises.

Over the years, through Richard and Paul’s guidance and passion Total Refrigeration has built up a professional and dedicated team of staff and technicians along with a growing reputation for being a reliable, highly skilled provider of quality work.

The Total Refrigeration team are very much looking forward to the opportunities the new premises will bring in assisting them to build on this reputation and better service their client’s needs and as the company continues to expand and grow.

Total Refrigeration 09 420-3404 wendy@totalrefrigeration.co.nz www.totalrefrigeration.co.nz

Business North / April 2013

Welding supply specialist on track for NI expansion Sue Russell

We have been around so long now and our

Hamilton firm Arc Welding Supplies has intentions of becoming one of the leading welding supply companies in the North Island – a goal managing director Brian Hall says it will achieve in the next 24 months.

The company is a division of B E Hall Ltd was established nearly 30 years ago undertaking mainly industrial electrical installation and servicing.

This evolved into welder equipment repairs and supplies and now specialises in supplying, as Hall puts it, the “serious end” of welding in the North Island.

As such he is in a good position to comment on the standard of welding in the stainless, dairy, heavy fabrication, transport and power industries.

“We are a one-stop shop for welding machines and consumables, no matter what the job and with our range of quality products we are here to help with the right advice so the customer gets the best equipment for their needs.

“There are a lot of people we deal with on a daily basis who are out there doing world-class work”, says Hall, adding that the company has had a lot to do with “supplying and servicing welding equipment to the power station projects around Taupo”.

On-going developments at Arc Welding Supplies has resulted in the company becoming the key distributor in the Hamilton area for gas supplier Air Liquide.

Success has come from sticking to wellrespected brands, such as Lincoln Electric, ESAB, Cigweld, Gullco, Orbitalum, and Harris to name just a few as well as delivering one-on-one service to customers whether big or small.

Over the years welding equipment has become highly efficient in terms of energy consumption.

There has also been a huge change in weight with the introduction of inverter technology while the cost of welding gear has decreased.

Hall says that the backbone to the company’s success are its staff, many of whom have worked there for years.

Arc Welding Supplies has an extensive knowledge base that is utilised in each and every customer query and sale.

Hall’s job is mostly connected with the servicing and technical side of welding equipment

reputation speaks for itself that we are in a strong position to become the leading supplier in the North Island.” and while a lot of manufacturers do not necessarily want to see some of their parts going on other machines, the ability to be adaptive is something he says his workshop has got “very good at”.

Working alongside Hall are a number of technical sales representatives servicing locations as far north as Auckland and south as Wellington on a weekly basis, as well as a very knowledgeable in-store sales team.

“We have been around so long now and our reputation speaks for itself that we are in a strong position to become the leading supplier in the North Island,” he says.

“We have a very loyal customer base and while some jobs and sales are smaller compared with others, we treat them all as equally important.”

The company’s website details a comprehensive list of equipment it sells, from arc welders, through bevellers, engine driven welders and accessories to safety gear and protective clothing, and accessories for welding, cutting, grinding and other engineering operations.

With the direction Arc Welding Supplies is currently heading in, Hall believes that it can only further cement itself as a vital supplier to the engineering industry and fulfil its aspiration of becoming the North Island’s leading welding supplies distributor.

Arc Welding Supplies 0800 272 935 sales@arcweld.co.nz www.arcweld.co.nz

Eurotec are proud to be associated with Total Refrigeration Ltd as NZ Distributor of quality Carel Refrigeration Controls and Supervisory Systems, and MSA & Manning Refrigerant Leak Detection Sensors and Systems to the Refrigeration and HVAC Industries for over 26 years.

Arc Welding Supplies is an industry leader in the North Island.

Business North / April 2013

CONTRACTING » Arc Welding Supplies

9

MIG/MAG – we’ve made quality automatic

Arc Welding Supplies stocks leading brands including Lincoln Electric, Esab, Cigweld, Gullco, Orbitalum, and Harris.

Air Liquide is proud to provide industrial gases and gas related services to Arc Welding Supplies At Air Liquide, we strive to provide innovative solutions to industries in the very competitive market. Whether you are supplying your products locally or internationally, you need to be more efficient than your competitors.

Developments with gas and gas related services such as reticulation systems and the ALTOP™ Integrated Regulator provide this competitive advantage.

For more details, please call one of our Customer Services Representatives on 09 622 3880

High productivity and relative simplicity have made MIG/MAG the most common welding technology in the world.

But ESAB’s new Origo™ (basic) and Aristo™ (advanced) units are anything but common. Our innovative easy-to-use digital controls, rugged design and comprehensive range of ancillary equipment ensure speed, reliability and flexibility. With your skill and our equipment, quality is automatic!

Combine this equipment with the ESAB OK AristoRod range of high performance Copper Free MIG/MAG wires and watch your profitability soar.

Email: sales@esab.com.au

Phone: +61 1300 372 228

10

CONTRACTING » Drain Surgeons

Business North / April 2013

HD laser technology the latest tool Karen Phelps Drain Surgeons is one of the few companies in the world to offer HD laser profiling. The service enables the company to profile large pipes for customers such as councils and utility companies.

The laser profiler is a stand-alone tool for use with the company’s CCTV survey systems and collects survey data and creates pipeline reports containing the measurement of faults and other features inside the pipeline.

The key benefit is that instead of a staff member having to walk through the pipe to carry out an assessment the laser profiler can simply be controlled by computer and complete continuous inspections up to three kilometres.

The equipment can take measurements such as pipe size, laterals and water levels as well as give an automatic analysis of pipe ovality and capacity up to 30 times per second. The resulting images are analysed using innovative machine vision software.

“This system allows our customers to efficiently programme their maintenance and rehabilitation. It is accurate, safe and easy to use as well as offering cost benefits,” says Drain Surgeons director Bill Whitelegg.

Drain Surgeons was started in 1977 in Auckland and is today operated by Whitelegg, Marc Ciochetto and Peter Knight.

The company employs 60 staff in Auckland and has established a dedicated depot in Christchurch with 50 staff to provide its expertise in the postearthquake cleanup.

Drain Surgeons completes both domestic and industrial work and services include drain unblocking, drain laying and repairs, drain cleaning and hydrojetting, defective drainage notices, root cutting, vacuum loading, pipe relining and fault location. It does both small and large jobs from the unblocking of a toilet to repairs to large public sewer and stormwater networks.

“The Drain Surgeons team is made up of some of the most experienced operators in the drainage industry, using some of the latest equipment and technology available in the marketplace,” says Whitelegg.

He says the company places a firm emphasis on health and safety. A Drain Surgeons supervisor was

Drain Surgeons completes domestic and industrial work - including drain unblocking, drain laying and repairs, and drain cleaning and hydrojetting. recently awarded the first ever commendation issued

by Auckland City Council after the company’s work during a CCTV contract with Auckland City council, which involved a complicated set up procedure involving tidal man-holes.

“During the course of the job a Health and Safety audit was undertaken by Auckland City Council, who reviewed all our set up and procedures. Our site safety supervisor, Todd Symes and Drain Surgeons were commended for maintaining a high standard of safety throughout the duration of the job,” says Whitelegg.

Due to the company’s unique expertise Drain Surgeons has also worked in Suva recently for the Fijian Government. Whitelegg says that the contract was won on the company’s industry experience and

capability to deliver on time and to specification.

Drain Surgeons supplied advanced hi tech CCTV equipment and hydro blasting units, built to the Fiji Government’s specifications.

Drain Surgeons also supplied its own operators to train and implement long term training programmes.

Drain Surgeons has just opened a new sister company called Underground Vision.

The new company will be dedicated to completing work for fresh water networks and will complement the services currently offered by Drain Surgeons, which will continue to focus on sewerage and stormwater systems.

Whitelegg says it made sense to utilize the company’s extensive expertise in drains in other areas.

Drain Surgeons 09 415 0298 office@drainsurgeons.co.nz www.drainsurgeons.co.nz

Occupational Health and Safety training NZQA Accredited Private Training Establishment » www.safetynaction.co.nz Our Courses: » Accident Investigation » Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) » Chemical Handling and HSNO » Confined Space » Dangerous Goods Licensing

Freephone: 0800 222 388

» Electrical Safety at Work » Elevated Work Platform (EWP) » Fire Courses » Forklift Licence » Hazard ID and OSH

» Health & Safety Representative » Hearing Conservation » Height Safety Courses » Manual Handling and OOS (GPI) » Permit to Work Courses

Phone: 09 414 5944 Fax: 09 414 6299 Email: admin@safetynaction.co.nz Training Centre Address: 7B Ride Way, Albany, Auckland PO Box 35-936, Browns Bay, Auckland

ENGINEERING » ATI Engineering

Business North / April 2013

11

Hawke’s Bay business continues to prosper Sue Russell ATI Engineering may not be the largest engineering company in the Hawke’s Bay but with so many strings to its bow, it’s maintaining a commanding presence in the region.

Managing director Simon Dunn says the success of the company is all to do with its ability to take on a wide range of highly-skilled engineering tasks, something he puts down to the calibre of the staff and the ‘go-get-it’ attitude the directors have when it comes to tendering for jobs.

“Our staffing is very stable, despite there having been a mass-exodus of skilled engineers to Australia, chasing the big money,” says Dunn.

“Our guys are skilled operators in their specialties and they all like the challenge that comes with the variety of work we do.

“No two jobs are the same and it keeps us on our toes.”

Dunn has worked for ATI for 14 years, taking over the managing director’s role last year.

Before this he was project manager and says his approach to the new role is to be as “hands-on as possible”.

ATI Engineering is in the top 25% of engineering companies in terms of size in the Hawkes Bay area but Dunn says there are no plans at this stage to grow bigger because the company is already competing well against some of the larger firms.

“We are doing a lot of work for Heinz/Wattie at the moment given it’s the height of the season, with maintenance as well as installing new steam and process pipe lines in Hastings,” he says.

“They are our largest and most consistent client and given the down-turn in the wine-making industry we’ve certainly coped with that change well, with plenty of work on the books.”

Dunn feels the engineering industry as a whole is heading for some challenging times down the track as a shortage of new young qualified engineers begins to bite.

“There haven’t been enough apprentices taken on and this, coupled with the pull of qualified engineers to Australia on the big projects will make things harder in the future.

“We work really hard at maintaining our staff

and part of this is providing them with on-going opportunities to learn new skills once they start working for us.”

By virtue of the fact that Heinz/Wattie has exacting standards when it comes to Health and Safety and Food Safety, staff from ATI working on the food processors site had to upskill and come into the systems of that plant, something Dunn sees as incredibly valuable.

“We continue to get work from them because they know our workers are competent on site.”

As a company that can carry a project from concept thinking through design, installation and maintenance ATI’s future is looking bright.

“It’s probably one of the most satisfying aspects of engineering when you can look back and see you’ve handled all phases of a project and delivered a top quality product on time and to budget.

“When it comes to tendering for work we do our thinking carefully and then we commit, even when the job is something completely out of the bag for us,” Dunn says.

Recently ATI successfully tendered to sub contract under an Austrian contractor on the Pan Pack Forest Products Ltd project.

ATI’s task was to build massive 6-8mm thick stainless steel tanks to store chemicals, involving manufacturing procedures more complex than they had previously undertaken.

“We were confident we could do it with our staff, with our machinery and our production systems.

We also knew the new learning would be most beneficial to our company because no-one else in this region would have the experience with chemical tanks. As it happens we managed just fine and now we have the benefit of that experience to draw back on and as a marketing advantage.”

ATI Engineering Ltd was established in 1993 by the amalgamation of Allstyle Engineering and Treeways 2000 Ltd.

ATI Engineering

ATI Engineering does a wide variety of work in the Hawke’s Bay region.

U N I V E R S A L

P L A S T I C S

06 879 8431 simon@ati.co.nz: www.ati.co.nz

pnsales@dotmar.co.nz

06 3544250

www.dotmar.co.nz

Free Phone 0800 274 765 3a Hazelwood Street, Hastings Hastings Branch: 06 879 5005 engineeringsolutions@waspnet.co.nz

Are you paying too much for your engineering parts?

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Profile Cutting & Laser Engraving Services

12

ENGINEERING » Hendl & Murray Engineering

Business North / April 2013

Firm eyes new international markets Karen Phelps Hendl & Murray Engineering Limited has been looking to expand its client base with a focus in the past 18 months on growing into the pharmaceutical and chemical markets.

Business development manager Scott Church says the aim has been to diversify and look for more offshore opportunities.

The Hamilton-based company has already completed work for AstraZeneca and Alphapharm in Australia.

“Although we already worked in the pharmaceutical and chemical markets we are now growing our clients in these industries, particularly offshore,” says Church.

Hendl & Murray Engineering provides manufacturing and engineering solutions to the dairy, food and beverage and pharmaceutical industries.

The privately owned company was founded in 1976 by Ron Hendl, with its initial focus to carry out the installation of plant equipment for New Zealand’s domestic dairy industry.

Today it operates a fully equipped workshop with facilities to manufacture tanks, vessels and silos along with specialty process equipment and piping components for international markets.

Church says the company is constantly investing in plant, equipment and training to ensure the highly qualified team of around 40 continually meet both the company’s own exacting standards and those of its customers.

The company is a member of Site Safe and the Dairy Industry Association of Australia and maintains compliance with the Environmental Risk Management Authority in being a certified fabrication company for Hazardous Substances & New Organisms.

The company is certified for fabrication of above ground stationary containers in carbon steel and stainless steel, with a maximum fill capacity of 150,000 litres and contents of flammable liquids, oxidising liquids, toxic liquids, corrosive liquids and eco-toxic liquids.

Hendl & Murray Engineering Limited also offers a bead blasting service.

The in-house bead blasting booth allows the company to produce a uniform matt finish on fabricated items, consequently reducing clean-up times. At 6x6m and with forklift access, the booth allows Hendl & Murray Engineering to bead blast a wide range of stainless steel items of various sizes.

Church says the company’s onsite capabilities mean it can both manufacture and install products offering clients a comprehensive solution.

Hendl & Murray Engineering provides manufacturing and engineering solutions to the dairy, food and beverage and pharmaceutical industries.

“We have experienced personnel to handle estimating, material procurement, project management, project engineering as well as working supervisors and qualified tradesmen to carry out any type of on-site installation project,” says Church.

“Our capabilities include the delivery of oversize vessels and the installation of mechanical equipment, systems and piping to exacting specifications and demanding hygiene standards.

“We have many years of installation experience in the dairy, food and beverage, chemicals, energy, marine, mining, waste treatment and water treatment industries.”

Southern QA Ltd | e. info@sqal.co.nz | p. 03 381 1670 Christchurch | m. 021 941 860 Hamilton NDT services • Radiography • Ultrasonic Testing • Magnetic Particle Inspection • Liquid Penetrant Inspection • Eddy Current Testing

Welding Consultancy Services • Welding Inspection • Welder Qualification Testing • Procedure Development • Procedure Qualification Testing

Inspection services • Third Party Inspection • Quality Assurance • Boroscope inspection • Rope Access Inspection • Hull Thickness Surveys

We have many years of installation experience in the dairy, food and beverage, chemicals, energy, marine, mining, waste treatment and water treatment industries.”

The company works in New Zealand and has exported product for over 25 years.

Projects completed by the company include components for a spray drying facility for Waikato Innovation Park and, across the Tasman, the fabrication of six 540m³ sugar storage vessels for an Australian client.

Church says these vessels - at 6.5m internal diameter and 21.8m long - were the largest manufactured by Hendl & Murray Engineering to date and required rigorous planning and the ability to think outside the square to complete the job on time and within budget.

Some other recent projects completed by the

ENGINEERING » Hendl & Murray Engineering

Business North / April 2013

FAX (03) 983 5550 PO Box 37346, Christchurch 8245 | 112 Wrights Rd, Addington Art Dept: 03 983 5502 | Email: art@waterfordpress.co.nz

COMPANY: Air Liquide ATTN: Clint Projects completed by the company include components for Ltd a spray drying facility for Waikato Innovation Park and the fabrication of six 540m³ sugar storage vessels for an Australian DATE client.

PRICE

$1306.00 + GST

COLOUR

Full

RE: Feature - Hendl & Murray Engineering

DATE AD MADE 01-03-13 AD CORRECTED

company include the conversion of a milk powder “We pride ourselves on being a company that dryer into an infant formula dryer for Tetra Pak. operates with integrity, passion and commitment,” The five-month project involving over 30 staff says Church. on site with Hendl & Murray Engineering supplying “This comes from the fact that the person who the tanks and silos as well as their mechanical started the company still works in it today.” installation.

Hendl & Murray Engineering manufactured PRINT and installed vessels and platforms for a solutionDATE NEARING Hendl & Murray Engineering preparation suite for AstraZeneca.

The project was so successful that the company 07 843 8233 has now picked up two more suite............................................. projects for AstraZeneca. admin@hmengineering.co.nz Church says a key point of difference for the company is that director Ron Hendl is still involved www.hmengineering.co.nz in the day to day operation of the business.

00-00-13

ARTIST

Jesse

ISSUE: BN1013 SLE SGN:

..............

For any advert changes or corrections please contact: Sarah McQuilkin 03 983 5560

URGENT

Air Liquide is proud to provide industrial gases and gas related services to Hendl & Murray Engineering Ltd

13

14

MARINE » Ship Repair NZ

Business North / April 2013

Company thriving in Whangarei Karen Phelps Whangarei-based company Ship Repair NZ is the only privately owned slipway facility and ship repair company in New Zealand, says company owner Henk Eilering.

The point is important as he feels this means the company has greater control over its business as well as the ability to offer customers a more personal service.

Eilering, who previously owned McRae Engineering, says he started Ship Repair NZ in 2006 after seeing an opportunity to streamline the business. A number of management and structural changes have since occurred, which Eilering says have increased company efficiency and hence profitability.

A focus on training and retaining highly qualified staff has been a major driver.

Staff numbers sit at around 35 and even though the marine industry is renowned for its ups and downs Eilering always retains his full staff levels even during downtimes.

“This retains our expertise in-house and ensures that we always have a highly capable team ready to go at all times to meet customer demand,” says Eilering.

Ship Repair NZ also has a focus on bringing new blood into the industry and the company’s first apprentice has just completed training.

The company presently has four apprentices on staff and Eilering would like to see this number double believing it is a key driver in taking his business forward into the future.

Among the company’s staff is Eilering’s son Nick who works as a company project manager alongside Peter Ducrot and John Clements.

• To page 16

Ship Repair NZ has the only privately-owned slipway facility in New Zealand.

Northland Underwater Technical Services Limited For all work done underwater including:

• Search and salvage • Cutting and welding • Inspection of structures, pipelines and vessels including CCTV • Propeller polishing

• Excavation for maintenance or • Slipway service and maintenance construction of structures or pipelines • All divers have current certification and are • Cable corridor survey, cable registered with the department of labour recovery and cable burial • Based in Whangarei, Northland • River and sea bed surveys but can work New Zealand wide

PO Box 7040, Tikipunga, Whangarei P 0274 923 018 F 09 433 5566 A/H 09 433 5880 E mattkathy@actrix.gen.nz

www.divecom.co.nz

Proudly supporting the Whangarei Marine Industry since 1996 • Marine Design consultancy - refit, conversions, class approvals • Naval Architecture - vessel design, stability and seakeeping • Mechanical design - winches, deck equipment

Proud to support Ship Repair NZ Come in and see us for all your Engineering requirements.

We carry Tools, Fasteners, Bearings and Transmission, Abrasives, Brass Fittings, Hose, Welding Gear, Paints, Chemicals, Wheels and Castors 97 Port Rd, Whangarei • Ph 09 438 7028 • Fax 09 438 0529

KEEP IT LOCAL

PO Box 305430, Triton Plaza, Rosedale, Auckland 0757 www.marinedesign.co.nz

40 Triton Drive, Rosedale, Auckland 0632 Ph: +64 9 419 8440

279 Port Road, Whangarei 0110 Ph: +64 9 437 6760

LOCAL WITH

PHONE 09 438 1802 • Tarewa Mega Centre • OPEN 7 DAYS • Website: www.barrells.co.nz

Business North / April 2013

Based in Whangarei, the facilities at Ship Repair NZ comprise a 2000-tonne capacity slipway as well as a second 40-tonne slipway.

Email: info@mcraesglobal.com www.mcraesglobal.com

MARINE Âť Ship Repair NZ

15

16

MARINE » Ship Repair NZ

Business North / April 2013

Ship Repair NZ also has a sheltered commercial wharf with berths of 120m, 67m and 36m, complete with crane.

• From Page 14 Eilering says the company’s three project managers play a key role in the business dealing personally with each project the company undertakes and interfacing with clients.

The company offers a number of services: ship repairs, marine fabrication and heavy engineering, custom ship refits and ship surveys: “Our engineers and marine fabricators have worked on hundreds of vessels.

“We have handled different types of ship conversions and refits, from ferries to fishing vessels, commercial to private use and more.

“From small repairs and replacements to large upgrades and refits, our experienced team of specialist marine fabricators, heavy engineers and associated tradespeople will custom-make and fit whatever plates or parts are needed, repairing welds and joins and strengthening areas of the ship that have weakened over time or are vulnerable to damage.

Ship Repair NZ 09 438 0753 henk@shiprepair.co.nz www.shiprepair.co.nz

Because we manage all ship repair projects from start to finish we provide quality assurance for each stage and a fast turn-around.”

Based in Whangarei, the facilities at Ship Repair NZ comprise a 2000-tonne capacity slipway as well as a second 40 tonne slipway.

The company has the necessary equipment and crew to attend to hull repairs on larger vessels or two smaller vessels at once in the main slipway allowing for faster turnaround times, says Eilering.

Ship Repair NZ also has a sheltered commercial wharf with berths of 120m, 67m and 36m, complete with crane.

Other facilities include onsite engineering workshops for machining, welding and fabrication work, 24-hour onsite security and fully serviced offices for ship owners’ use.

Ship Repair NZ has clients based throughout the country and abroad.

The company has just completed a new mast, booms and hydraulic system for a tuna boat for client Vasco Enterprises based in San Diego. It has completed a major refit of the boat Spirit of New Zealand including three new masts and a new engine and drive system.

The company is presently working on building a new car passenger ferry for a New Zealand client.

Ship Repair NZ was involved from the design stage and Eilering admits this is not the usual process and the company typically gets involved once design has been completed.

Revitalising the Spirit of New Zealand and proudly supporting Ship Repair NZ

MASTER BLASTERS & COATING MASTERS 09 438 8637 www.rudolphs.co.nz

“Getting us involved early though brings lots of advantages.

“In this case we had the opportunity to provide input so the job could be completed quicker, easier and more cost effectively.”

The 54m long ferry will be completed by July 2014 and Eilering says it is an indication of the confidence the local market has in Ship Repair NZ.

“We have great boat building skills in New Zealand and in our yard and the fact that a project like this was built in New Zealand is a real indication of this.

“It also provides valuable opportunities for Kiwis to learn good skills ensuring the boat building industry here remains competitive at an international level.”

WE PRODUCE A WIDE RANGE OF PRODUCTS

AROUND THE HOME WE SPECIALISE IN

Bow Rails / Hand Rails / Ladders Rocket Launchers / Bow Rollers / Bollards Fairleads / Bimini / Supports / Rod Holders Specialised brackets and various items for the galley

Stainless Steel Benchtops / Custom Made Rangehoods Splashbacks / Custom Balustrades / Handrails Kickplates / Shower Trays / Fabricating Absolutely anything Stainless OR Aluminium

We aim to be the first name people think of when they need quality stainless products Absolute Stainless 3 Fraser St Whangarei p: 09 430 8608 e: simon@absolutestainless.co.nz / info@absolutestainless.co.nz www.absolutestainless.co.nz

MARINE » Salthouse Boatbuilders

Business North / April 2013

17

New yacht delivers top performance Karen Phelps A yacht built by Salthouse Boatbuilders has shaved an impressive two hours off the previously held 35foot record for New Zealand’s biggest boat race, the Coastal Classic race.

Although weather conditions were favourable on the day it was the design of the E35ss 'Crusader' that contributed to its success, says Salthouse Boatbuilders director Greg Salthouse.

Constructed from carbon-fibre, the yacht’s biggest distinction was that it had a mechanical canting keel. “A hydraulic ram inside the boat pushed the keel from side to side like a pendulum.

This gives more stability and grunt,” says Salthouse.

“Not many boats have this feature and particularly not boats of this small size. It’s kind of like putting a V8 motor in a Honda car.”

The New Zealand owner came to Salthouse Boatbuilders looking for a cost-effective smaller boat that he could easily transport overseas for races and was capable of setting records for its size.

Although the mechanical canting keel could make the boat challenging to sail it more than made up for this in terms of the speed advantages it brings to the vessel, says Salthouse.

The Crusader also has a long 3-metre retractable bow sprit, a feature which puts more distance between the two sails enabling the boat to have larger and higher performance sails.

The vessel was constructed with a vinyl coating instead of paint, which gave a more precise colour and is easier to repair.

Salthouse Boatbuilders was started in 1956 and is based in Greenhithe on Auckland’s North Shore.

The Salthouses are a high achieving boating family. Greg has sailed internationally and his brother Chris is a current member of Emirates Team New Zealand.

“Because our whole family is involved in boating we offer a whole range of practical experience other companies don’t have,” says Greg.

“We are out there actively boating and racing and have a good understanding of how a boat needs to work practically in the real world.”

Salthouse BoatBuilders undertakes new builds, refits, maintenance and repairs.

All trades are either located on site including engineers, plumbers and painters or the company uses a small group of trusted subcontractors.

The company does everything on a job from joinery to electronics.

The company has also undertaken some very unique builds including a number of traditional Polynesian double-hulled vakas, which were built as part of the Pacific Voyagers Project.

The project aims to develop the awareness and preservation of the ocean environment and marine life by recapturing the Polynesian traditions of ocean voyaging between the island nations of American Samoa, the Cook Islands, Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand, Tonga and Western Samoa.

Salthouse says the project definitely presented challenges.

“It has been a fascinating process to combine today's modern technologies of boatbuilding with those traditional methods of the Polynesian culture,” he says.

“Each hull is constructed of e-glass and foam using advanced infusion processes.

“In contrast to these modern methods, tradition remains clearly visible with each hull lashed together using wooden beams and ropes.

“Authenticity has been maintained with the vaka adorned in traditional carvings, colourings and insignia of each individual nation.”

Salthouse Boatbuilders is presently working on a 37-foot launch called Southstar and a second 45foot vessel to be used as a high speed support boat for Emirates Team New Zealand.

Salthouse Boatbuilders has also built one of these vessels for Team Prada.

Salthouse Boatbuilders 09 413 9021 greg@salthouseboats.co.nz www.salthouseboats.com

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Salthouse Boatbuilders has built up a proud reputation in the industry.

18

BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Challenge Construction

Business North / April 2013

Refurbishment creates ‘stand-out’ Kelly Deeks Auckland’s Challenge Construction has recently completed an office building refurbishment in Drake Street with some interesting features and construction methods making for a “stand-out” building in Auckland’s CBD. Challenge Construction’s managing director Keith Bawden says the two-storey building, which was originally built about 12 years ago, was becoming quite dated and internal mezzanine floors were impeding more efficient use of the available space.

Challenge Construction has pulled out the mezzanine floors, built a rainscreen façade on the exterior of the building and clad it with cedar batons in varying sizes and thicknesses.

The rainscreen provides shade to a new 36m long deck which was built on the ground floor, in the south east Asian hardwood Vitex.

The deck extends across the front of the building and has large steps that can be sat on as well as walked on, and an egress stairway through the middle.

Bawden says the boards are watershed decking, slightly convex on top allowing water to run away from the centre.

Inside the building some interesting construction methods were employed for the build of two steel pods forming a meeting room and a boardroom on the ground floor.

“We built two 4.5m wide steel framed boxes, one 8m long, the other 5m long,” Bawden says.

“We made the frames on the concrete floor, then put in all the flooring, the walls, and the ceiling framing.

“Then we engaged a house moving company to jack the pods up in to the air, so we could put in the steel supports underneath.”

Bawden says this method was an easier way of building the pods, eliminating the need for scaffolding while on the floor, and allowing Challenge Construction to ensure the pods were level while suspended in the air.

This Drake Street building in central Auckland has been extensively renovated.

Bawden says that the building was constructed well originally, and before the upgrade was assessed for it’s susceptibility to earthquakes, and was found to be within acceptable limits, so no earthquake strengthening was required.

We made the frames on the concrete floor, then put in all the flooring, the walls, and the ceiling framing. Then we engaged a house moving company to jack the pods up in to the air, so we could put in the steel supports underneath.”

The architect for the building refurbishment was Jack McKinny of McKinny Windeatt Architects from Auckland, who Challenge Construction has worked with on other projects in the past.

Challenge Construction was established by Bawden 10 years ago.

Bawden himself has been building for more than 40 years.

He says he normally builds luxury homes, and has completed many shop and restaurant fitouts throughout Auckland.

Over the past five years the company has been involved in commercial work, drawing on experience in concrete repair work, and concrete construction of previous years.

Bawden and his Interior designer wife Vicki have also designed and built three homes over the years.

One sold within a day of going on the market.

The other two were bought by people wanting the homes before they were marketed.

Challenge Construction 021 430 111 challengeconstruct@clear.net.nz

FOR ALL YOUR GLAZING REQUIREMENTS Terry Bourke - Director

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Business North / April 2013

BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Kay & Keys Architects

19

Uncovering a building’s hidden costs Karen Phelps There can be hidden costs in commercial leases that both building owners and prospective tenants may not be aware of that can sometimes costs hundreds of thousands of dollars, says Alastair Kay, from Kay & Keys Architects.

“It’s the part of our job that is not so sexy but assessing a building thoroughly before either party commits to a lease agreement is essential and often saves our clients significant money,” he says.

Assessment is important as it helps to ensure that the building will meet the needs of the tenant and that any work required will be able to achieve council approval. It is also important to gain a sound understanding of the costs involved to make the building fit for purpose.

Although Kay & Keys prefer to become involved from the outset typically the company gets called to find solutions to problems that could have been avoided.

“In one case a tenant had negotiated a deal with a landlord and agreed that they would pay any costs in their use of the building. “ “They ended up paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in compliance costs they didn’t expect to get the building to the council required standard,” explains Kay. “It works the other way as well. In another case a landlord had negotiated a deal with a tenant and offered to do a lot of the work that was required only to find he was up for additional compliance costs he hadn’t figured on.”

Kay says that many people do not realise that changing the use of a building, for example from an office building to an educational facility, holds different council requirements for things such as fire protection and access etc.

Kay & Keys Architects 09 529-9481 alastair@kayandkeys.co.nz www.kayandkeys.co.nz

“Seemingly minor changes if they are not made to local council regulations and the building code can also affect the likelihood of an insurance pay out should the need ever arise,” Kay says.

“For example most commercial buildings will have an automatic fire system. If you move anything associated with that system, even a single sprinkler, you need a consent.

“By getting involved in the process early if a tenant is looking at several different buildings we can let them know the costs involved in converting each to their use so they can make a more informed decision and negotiate a better deal with the landlord.”

Kay & Keys Architects was established in 1996

by Kay and Peter Keys.

The two had formerly worked for a major multi-disciplined consultancy where they had the opportunity to work on a variety of complex, demanding projects and be involved with large teams.

Kay says the pair has experience both being landlords and tenants and has built strong relationships assisting a number of corporate businesses.

The company has won a number of architectural, interior and lighting awards.

A recent project completed by Kay & Keys was the upgrading of Pengellys transport company headquarters including a rebuild of the entrance and a new lift.

The company is currently completing the final stage of the new Unitec campus at Albany, which has been altered from a distribution centre to a tertiary education facility.

Kay says that current trends in commercial spaces include tenants looking for spaces that will provide a quality environment for staff well-being, productivity and interaction.

“There is also an ethical approach coming from a number of multinationals who want to exceed the building code compliance standards on various aspects of their buildings.

“I think there’s been a growing awareness in terms of triple bottom line and how important operating a business ethically is.”

Providing a quality environment for staff is vital for commercial spaces.

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20

BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Marra Construction

Business North / April 2013

Marra Construction’s design-and-build service incorporates architectural and structural design through to interior and landscape design.

Design and build has advantages Karen Phelps Design and build brings a more collaborative approach to the overall building process with distinct advantages for clients, says Marra Construction (2004) Limited estimating manager Murray Carlaw.

“Tendering tends to be more adversarial and more competitive in nature,” says Carlaw.

“The design and build process means as a builder we get involved early and can ensure the project is designed with buildability in mind,” he says.

Carlaw says that Marra has developed a very effective design and build service.

The company’s design and build option incorporates the building design from architectural and structural needs through to interior and landscape design. The main focus is on determining and meeting the specific requirements and unique needs of the client.

“Clients can have as little or as much design input as they like,” he says.

“We provide them with a turnkey service where

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all they have to do is literally move in when the project is completed.”

Marra can operate using a standard construction contract, lease back or on-going sale options. The company also has access to land options should they be required.

Carlaw says that Marra is increasingly including energy saving ideas and construction techniques which are effectively reducing the environmental impact of both the construction process and resulting building.

“In addition, the techniques are delivering impressive results to our customers’ business performance by reducing the on-going running costs of the building,” he says.

A recent example is the company’s work on the Arataki Community Centre for Tauranga City Council.

The Council provided a specific performance brief for the proposed building use.

The budget was not defined at the commencement of design but as the design evolved it was apparent that Marra’s building proposal met the functional demands of the community centre as well as falling within the Council’s budget allocation.

The project included ablutions as well as a series of function and meeting rooms suitable for a wide variety of activities.

Rainwater is harvested from the roof to underground tanks to be used for flushing toilets thus reducing water usage.

Another design and build project that the company has recently completed is the new Mitre10 Megastore in Rotorua.

Due to a good brief from Mitre10 Marra was able to accurately price the project while the design was still at the concept stages.

Marra Constructuion is also about to commence work on a new gymnasium for community and school use for Pongakawa School just south of Te Puke.

The project involves the construction of

a full-size basketball court and squash court along with associated ablutions, office, kitchen, entry basketball, squash, netball, volleyball and badminton courts.

Carlaw says that this all-encompassing project highlights a key advantage of the design-and-build process: “The client came to us with a vision but unfortunately their vision for the project exceeded their budget.

“Consequently we tailored the project to suit their needs and made provision for the extra requirements – a stage and green room – to be included easily at a future date when their budget allows.

“It’s about future proofing the project now to meet their future needs.”

... the techniques are delivering impressive results to our customers’ business performance by reducing the on-going running costs of the building.”

Redco NZ Ltd are proud to be responsible for the Enginering Design of the new Mega M10 Centre.

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BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Marra Construction

Business North / April 2013

21

Marra has long history in Tauranga and region Marra Construction (2004) Limited has been in operation in the Bay of Plenty area for over 30 years.

The company was started by Phil and Bev Marra and is today the biggest commercial building company permanently based in Tauranga.

Marra embraces all areas of commercial and industrial construction including development projects and design and build.

The company completes negotiated turnkey type work to open tenders. While the day-today running of the business is left to senior management the Marras are still actively involved in the business.

Although the key focus for the company is still the Bay of Plenty region, Marra has also recently started to work further afield for selected clients.

In the past two years the company has completed work in Auckland and even the Nelson region.

“Our focus now is to build on our recent successes,” says Marra estimating manager Murray Carlaw.

“After a tough one to two years due to the poor economic environment there appears to be a lot more confidence in the market going forward and more commercial project opportunities.”

Carlaw says that Marra has placed great focus on the people it employs as being a cornerstone of the business.

“We are only as good as the work we complete and the quality and work ethic demonstrated by the Marra team is second to none, says Carlaw.

“Marra's recruitment strategy focuses on maintaining a superior workforce and we are always on the lookout for the best people in the construction industry to join our team.”

Another key factor in its success is that the company employs all its own site staff rather than relying on contract labour.

“This provides better project continuity and quality control. We have highly trained staff on hand to be allocated to whichever job they are most needed,” he says.

Carlaw says staff tend to stay with the company long term because the company focuses on looking after its employees.

“We have people that have been with us for nearly twenty years. We’ve got some people who have been with us since the company started.

That’s a lot of experience captured in-house.”

Marra embraces all areas of commercial and industrial construction including development projects and design and build.

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22

BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Murray Cockburn Partnership

Business North / April 2013

Tailoring design to suit the individual Karen Phelps Murray Cockburn Partnership has been established with a clear emphasis on the “human face” of architecture, says Auckland principal Ron Seeto.

Seeto defines this as listening to and watching the people that will be utilising the building before and after completion and responding to their needs then using this as the basis for the cornerstone of design.

As a recent example he points to the company’s work with architect Jeff Armstrong on the parish of St Michael Church in Remuera, Auckland.

The resource consent process for the church’s new gathering space has taken a decade as the church represents one of the few examples of neo Romanesque architecture in the country.

The building has an exquisite historical façade, which is unfortunately south facing meaning parishioners have often had to deal with bitter southerly winds sweeping into the entrance during important liturgical events at Easter and family weddings and funerals.

Recognising this Seeto and Armstrong redesigned the entranceway, enclosing it in glass so people can continue to gather and talk in comfort.

Seeto says although contemporary materials have been mixed with original cues have still been taken from the historical building in the new details.

Seeto says the building is a perfect example of the company’s intention is to produce designs that stand out in the marketplace.

“As people we are all very different. So why should our buildings be the same? Tailoring each design to suit the individual client is a major focus for us.

“We really relish the opportunity to create something that stands out, often subtly, from the crowd,” he says.

The practice was established by Murray Cockburn in Suva, Fiji in 1971. Seeto joined the practice in 1981. The Auckland branch was opened in 1986 which Seeto now operates.

The company also has an office in Queenstown operated by Cockburn and an office in Fiji. Seeto says the advantage of offices based in both the North and South Islands mean that although operating independently resources can be combined and shared on projects as required.

The company has been involved in a lot of ‘firsts’ for New Zealand.

For example it designed Millbrook Resort, one of the first large scale resorts in New Zealand. Other distinctive projects showcasing the company’s capabilities include designing the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist temple in East Tamaki, Auckland and the Nanak Sar Isher Darbar Sikh temple in Manurewa, Auckland. It also designed the St Michael’s junior school classroom block in Auckland.

MCP Architects prides itself on producing designs that stand out in the marketplace and meet the unique needs of each client.

Seeto says his job is to help realise the client’s dream – even when they may not be exactly sure what that is.

“We listen to not just what the client says but also what they don’t say.

“It’s about extracting the essence of what a client really wants by asking the right questions to get the final design from their mind to the computer screen and then the building.”

Seeto says while most architects generally allow for formal client review meetings, Murray Cockburn Partnership also prefers to interact frequently with the various people who are responsible for the project as the work progresses so that the end results achieve three significant goals: “It is important to us that the client has maximum input into the design process and is aware of the reasoning behind the final design.

Also that the cost is controlled during both the design process and construction.”

Another example of the company’s process was a 20,000 square foot holiday home in Omaha.

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The project was designed for a young family with an emphasis on socialising. The resulting home is comprised of three pavilions – one for communal meeting, one as a sleeping/living space and a guest pavilion.

“It is like a little village. Their lifestyle generated the concept,” says Seeto.

“It is a good example of the fact that architecture is not just about buildings; it’s about people.

“My interest and greatest joy is to see people in our buildings and how our buildings actually operate with people in them.

“People make buildings come alive whether it is a public building, church or a home.”

Murray Cockburn Partnership 09 579 8018 ronseeto@xtra.co.nz www.mcparchitects.com

Proud to support Murray Cockburn Partnership Contact Steve on 021 820 620 or 09 530 8385 Email: samuldoon@xtra.co.nz

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Business North / April 2013

BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Aspec Construction / Adroit Builders

23

Combined skills a perfect match Kelly Deeks

The new Countdown Warkworth supermarket has some innovative design features.

Supermarket a real challenge Karen Phelps Aspec Construction has just completed the new Countdown Warkworth supermarket and project manager Michael Barltrop says the project presented a number of unique challenges.

As the building took up most of the 4000sqm Neville Street site sound project planning was more important than usual: “We needed to plan accurately when and how to complete each aspect of the job.

“We actually had to move the site office three times during the construction as the job progressed,” he explains noting the cooperation of the neighbouring bowling club and RSA was key.

Barltrop, who has been involved in Countdown builds in Kerikeri and Auckland, says the Warkworth building has some innovative design features.

For example the post tension concrete slab floor was built insitu with no precaste elements.

“This allows more space/headroom in the basement area and allowed us to use a thinner slab.”

Another feature was the steel frame which saw a 25 tonne crane driven onto the post tension slab, which required a huge amount of propping due to challenging ground conditions.

The project saw Aspec Construction managing around 65 subcontractors. Many hailed from Auckland but local subcontractors were also involved in the project.

Barltrop says considering the challenging nature of the build it demonstrates the resources and onsite management skills within the company, which had up to 100 workers on site at the peak of the project.

Aspec Construction is based in Auckland and employs over 100 staff. Services include construction, interior fit-outs and maintenance work largely for the commercial sector.

The company is owned by Dale de Penning (whose role is company managing director and construction manager), Steve Morris (chief quantity surveyor) and Barltrop.

Barltrop says a key aspect of the company’s success has been that all three directors work in the company on a daily basis.

The company also places great emphasis on staff training.

On-going training is encouraged and around 15 staff is currently completing apprenticeships or cadetships at present.

Health and safety management is a key focus for the company which has a robust health and safety management programme in place.

“Over time we have introduced a comprehensive health and safety policy with associated requirements and expectations of performance and systems that not only comply with but exceed current health and safety and other associated legislation,” says Barltrop.

Aspec Construction is audited on an annual or biannual basis by ACC and Telarc as well as various territorial authorities and oil companies. Aspec Construction has been granted tertiary status (the highest status available) by ACC. Aspec Construction’s quality assurance system is synonymous with ISO 9000. Each project has its own distinct quality plan.

Barltrop says Aspec Construction is committed to protecting, restoring and sustaining the physical environments in which it operates.

Part of this involves minimising construction and demolition waste, toxic emissions and noise, water and air pollutions which are sometimes created as part of the job.

The company also endeavours to restore the natural environment of job sites to how they were before the project began or to develop and enhance the environment to suit new surroundings. Aspec Construction is a member of the Green Building Council.

Auckland’s Adroit Builders brings together the skills of two dedicated industry professionals, cabinet maker Matthew Hanna and carpenter Oscar Williams.

The pair’s highly complementary skills allow the company to tackle every project from new homes and renovations to commercial fit-out work with both the mechanical and creative aspects well covered.

Hanna and Williams started Adroit Builders two years ago and together they offer their clients the reassurance of more than 30 years of combined experience and knowledge of New Zealand’s residential construction and custom furniture manufacturing industries.

Williams says that their combined experience and knowledge allows Adroit Builders to successfully complete difficult building projects that other builders shy away from. This can be anything from repairing leaky buildings to technical builds such as the timber balustrade the company recently built at a renovation to a $10 million property at Browns Bay. The house was originally built in the 1970s, and the owners called in Adroit Builders to complete some repairs and maintenance and other improvement work to update the look of the house.

“They wanted to put a timber balustrade along a mezzanine floor and on to a concrete floor,” Williams says.

“We came up with the idea of how to do it. We core drilled into the concrete slab then Chemset a steel pole into it, and slid the timber balustrade over the top.”

Williams says every project Adroit Builders undertakes presents its own challenges, which is why he and Hanna believe an outstanding tradesman never stops learning their craft.

“We also believe that the foundation block for any learning and constantly evolving business is good communication, which is why we take the time to listen to our client’s ideas.”

“We then offer practical and sympathetic advice, about how best to achieve the desired outcome.”.

Williams and Hanna apply their expert craftsmanship, along with some innovative thinking, to help their clients visualise their dream home, or understand how they can make the best use of the space they have to create a stunning renovation.

“We have both passion and talent for working with wood, and we can craft custom furniture and bathroom and kitchen cabinetry that blends beautifully with the overall design of your dream home,” Williams says.

“We love building and renovating homes that our clients love living in, custom furniture they love relaxing on, and elegant but functional cabinetry they love working with.”

Having weathered the uncertain economic climate caused by the global recession in the foundation days of forming their company, Williams and Hanna have now built a durable business and credibility in the market place.

Adroit Builders is getting busier and as a relatively new business, Williams and Hanna are concerned they handle its growth correctly.

“The biggest learning curve for me over the last two years has been the management side of the business,” Williams says.

“I’ve realised there is as much involved in management as there is in carpentry.”

He is enjoying customer relations and says building solid relationships is key for Adroit Builders and its continued success.

“When a business gets bigger, customer service can suffer,” he says.

“The subcontractors we use are either one man bands or big companies, and the customer service you get from the smaller companies is so much better.

“That’s our goal - we want to balance a medium sized business with a one man band type of feel.”

Adroit Builders 09 215 6226 adroitbuilder@gmail.com www.adroitbuilders.co.nz

Aspec Construction 09 309 3612 auckoffice@aspec.co.nz www.aspec.co.nz

Adroit Builders constructed this timber balustrade in a recent renovation project.

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24

BUILDING INNOVATIONS» Coastbuild NZ

Business North / April 2013

Nothing too tricky for Tim’s team Karen Phelps Coastbuild New Zealand is nearing completion of possibly one of New Zealand’s trickiest residential home builds.

The house located on Marellen Drive in Red Beach, Auckland was four years in the planning and nearly as long in the construction.

The home, designed by Auckland based Ignite Architects, is described by Coastbuild director Tim Smith as similar to building “a boat on a house”.

The unusual design has involved the expertise of marine boat builders and when completed will encompass four different kinds of roofs one of which curves 180 degrees with a radius ranging from 800mm up to two metres.

To say the design has been tricky to construct is an understatement.

As an example the roof made from marine grade gaboon plywood with an apoxy resin and fibre glass cloth applied over the top encompass over 5000 individual pieces fitted together like a jigsaw puzzle.

Smith has been operating in the building business for around 15 years and started Coastbuild New Zealand in 2005.

Based on Auckland’s Hibiscus Coast, Coastbuild’s reputation has been to specialise in challenging projects with a focus on residential housing.

More recently Coastbuild has also moved into light commercial projects due to client demand.

The company has completed fitouts on the historic 272 Parnell Road building owned by Seeby Properties Limited.

Another high profile project that Coastbuild recently completed was the redesign of a games room in the Auckland home used to film New Zealand’s Next Top Model and MasterChef.

The six month project involved building a unique combined bar/kitchen as well as audio system with integrated control panels and a massive 10.5 metre sliding door.

Coastbuild primarily completes work in the Rodney district from Kumeu to Warkworth and the Hibiscus Coast.

Smith says his knowledge of the area from living there for so long proves invaluable when building in a coastal environment: “I am familiar with the elements such as prevailing wind directions.

“This gives me a good knowledge of how to combat these things when I am constructing a house and products that will function effectively in these types of conditions.”

As part of a focus on giving back to the community Coastbuild has also recently donated its time and expertise to the Whangaparaoa Kindergarten, which is attended by Smith’s children.

The project involved installing a new water drinking fountain, a 2.5 metre long play bridge and a vegetable garden.

Coastbuild NZ has been kept busy with this cutting edge Marellan Drive house.

Smith says the company has been busy throughout the recession and that a great deal of work comes from repeat business. His biggest challenge to company growth is sourcing enough staff.

Unlike most building companies which view competitors with a degree of wariness, Smith has actually formed reciprocal partnerships with other local building companies in order to solve this problem.

“We have passed work onto other builders who have subcontracted to us to complete jobs when their work has been a bit slow.

“We hope that if that ever happens to us they might pass work onto us as well,” he says.

Smith is on the tools as well as running the company and wife Kayla and sister-in law Racheal

take on the account/administration side of the business.

Likewise trusted subcontractors are used with whom Smith has established a personal relationship. “We have worked with some of these people for many years. They are definitely part of our team. It’s like a big family.”

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BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Imagine Building Design

Business North / April 2013

25

Commitment to quality in design Jo Bailey Every building design created by multi-award winning firm Imagine Building Design is a “one-off”, says director Tony Biesiek.

“We start with a clean slate for each project to come up with a unique, visually appealing design solution that meets the practical requirements of each client. Our focus is on excellence regardless of the size or type of job.”

In a tight market he believes this is a brave approach. “It is always easier to sell your services cheaper to a larger market. But we are committed to providing a high level of service and quality design. It is a more rewarding process for the client and also for our team as we get to work on projects that are a lot more fun and unique.”

This ethos has led to the company receiving a string of awards at the ADNZ Resene Architecture Awards, including a national first place in 2011 for the residential alterations and additions category, and a first place in the Taranaki/Wanganui/ Manawatu Region for the same category in 2012.

Biesiek says the company has had a “good couple of years” as far as awards go.

“Winning awards is the best form of free marketing you can get and a great way to build a strong brand. It’s always good to have other people talking about your work.”

The latest award was for the company’s work at Kereru Lodge that almost doubled the size of a 1970s single-level three-bedroom Taranaki home into a contemporary two-storey “Kiwi bungalow”.

Renovations and additions have been a major part of the company’s portfolio during the downturn after previously working on more new residential and commercial projects. “There is definitely a swing back the other way as confidence returns to the market. However I expect it will be at least another year before new work takes over from the renovation side of the business.”

Given the company’s forward workload over the next 12 to 18 months, Biersiek expects to add to his team that includes himself and two full time draftspeople plus one administrator.

Imagine Building Design won an award for its work on revamping the Kereru Lodge building.

Upcoming projects including designing a “topend” showhome for Bell Building; a townhouse development for Pepper Construction; some “edgy” new residential homes; a large Nelson home in traditional arts and crafts style; a commercial development in New Plymouth; and low-cost affordable housing designs for Housing NZ. The design team harnesses the latest CAD technology, something they “push to the limits”.

“The result is that our clients end up with some pretty cool designs because we are testing the software’s capabilities on their projects. We provide 3D visualisation of all our work which gives clients

a better understanding of their project at the design stage.”

Biesiek is a Licensed Building Practitioner with a Design 3 practice license; and is a professional member of Architectural Designers New Zealand Inc. Since he founded Imagine Building Design in January 2002 he says around 52 percent of the company’s projects have been repeat business, with 86 percent from direct referrals.

“I believe this is due to our relationship marketing philosophy which is achieved by friendly, up-front and clear communication with our clients throughout the design and construction process.”

Photo: Kallan MacLeod The company offers a professional construction administration service in addition to design work to ensure its buildings are constructed to the highest standard, he says. “We believe it is the best way to maintain the integrity of our designs.”

Imagine Building Design 06 769 9599 tony@imaginenz.com www.imaginenz.com

Pleased to be associated with Tony and the team at Imagine Building Design

Tel (06) 769 6945 Steve 027 215 4600. Andrew 027 215 4900 www.bellbuilding.co.nz

pplier proud print su Congratulations to the Award Winning Team at

DESIGN • PRINT • COPY • SCAN www.graphix.co.nz

77

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Free estimates for all residential & commercial work in Taranaki Builders of 2011 National NZAD Alteration & Addition of the Year Ph/Fax 06 753 6159 | 0274 084 493 | PO Box 5032, New Plymouth www.peppercontruction.co.nz | andrew@pepperconstruction.co.nz

26

BUILDING INNOVATIONS » The House Company

Business North / April 2013

Awards reflect firm’s consistency Jo Bailey Boutique residential building firm The House Company continued its award-winning form in 2012.

The Rodney-based company added another Registered Master Builders House of the Year Gold Award to its already impressive haul; and finished as a finalist in the Simpson Western Best Small Business category at the Westpac Auckland North Business Awards recently.

“We pride ourselves on being consistently recognised among the country’s top builders for the quality of our design, workmanship, creativity and innovation,” says marketing manager Ceri Smith. “Entering and winning awards is an important part of our marketing strategy.”

The House Company’s most recent Gold Award was in the $600,000 - $1 million category for an impressive four-bedroom Omaha home with open plan living and dining areas, hostess kitchen and views to the beach.

Managing director Hamish McArthur says he was “over the moon” to win given the high calibre of entries.

“The competition definitely gives us and the other three Auckland winners an edge in what is a fierce and competitive market,” he says.

“Recognition at this level can provide home owners with a huge amount of confidence in their builder.”

Since 1989 The House Company has built more than 1000 homes in the greater Auckland area covering mainly the North Shore through Rodney to Whangarei.

“We have established a reputation as a quality design and build company,” says Ceri Smith.

“Our customers recognise we are specialist builders, delivering personally-tailored homes that offer excellent value for money.

“The House Company can design and build a new home on the client’s own site; source a site and create a house and land package with full turnkey options; or offer an existing house and land package already under construction.

“We currently have several house and land package options available - with one home already underway at Warkworth; another about to start at Omaha; and a further two at Silverdale and Orewa in the design stages.

“They are all quite different homes that have been designed to fit an aesthetic unique to their location.”

The House Company is based at Warkworth where it has a new architectural showhome under construction in addition to its existing contemporary 266sqm, four-bedroom display home at Millwater, Silverdale.

This has a range of upmarket features including a designer kitchen with granite benchtops; alfresco dining area; walk-in tile shower and the latest floor coverings.

“We plan to build a second showhome at both

The House Company 0800 600 620

The House Company has established a reputation as a quality design and build company.

Warkworth and Silverdale before the end of this year,” says Smiith. “Having four display homes will allow us to showcase our wide-ranging expertise that includes everything from architectural and beach side homes, to lifestyle and contemporary brick and tile designs.”

Services offered by The House Company include no obligation site visits; a full design service with the company’s team of in-house designers and architects; a guaranteed fixed-price

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“The Auckland market has definitely picked up as we are flat out with demand for new homes both on client-owned sites as well as full turnkey options such as our house and land packages.”

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BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Euroclass

Business North / April 2013

27

Office/residential units prove a popular option Karen Phelps Combined office/residential units have proved popular for small business owners and investors, says Braden Simmons from Auckland-based design and build company Euroclass.

The company considered combined units when the industrial and commercial markets slowed down during the recent recession.

Euroclass has just completed 14 unit at 50 Stonedon Drive, East Tamaki, Auckland.

The units comprise a 100 square metre workshop space with roller door and above, a 100sqm two-bedroom home.

“With the housing market as it is right now this is a way for a business owner to set up shop as well as buy an affordable home,” says Simmons.

Euroclass is a New Zealand family owned company established in 1987 specialising in commercial design and build. Most projects are turn-key packages including land procurement and council compliance.

Simmons says that Euroclass has chosen to focus on office/warehouse development. The company has now completed more than 150 projects.

The company’s flagship project, which is still under development, is Stonehill Business Park.

The 40ha site at Wiri was acquired by Euroclass in 2005 and it is now one of the largest commercial subdivisions in Auckland with developed infrastructure and a Business 5 zoning. Land and building packages are now available for sale or lease.

“With 29 Stage 1 lots released, Stonehill Business Park is the only large format and immediately available business park where occupiers can own the land and buildings.

Stonehill Business Park is a superb opportunity

Euroclass 09 634 0915 info@euroclass.co.nz www.euroclass.co.nz

for businesses looking to expand or upgrade; a premium commercial development with superb transport links in the heart of Auckland’s fastestgrowing region.”

Euroclass has already constructed the Tyremax distribution warehouse on the site, a large office/warehouse/distribution centre for Multivac, four industrial units and an office/ warehouse for Signage Systems.

The company is currently putting up the steelwork and framing for an office/warehouse for Water Supply Products.

Simmons says that Stonehill is the only place offering a turnkey design-build package that has been created specifically for the needs of businesses owners.

“This makes it absolutely distinct from any other existing business park of its type - it will be tailored exactly to the needs of occupiers.”

He says the design approach at Stonehill emphasises quality buildings and strong landscape covenants.

The strategy from the outset has been to preserve the park’s values through extensive quality controls over the style of construction and long-term covenant control.

Simmons says that design and build is a comprehensive building methodology involving Euroclass working closely with the client.

The benefit he says is that the client only has to deal with one organisation.

“Euroclass takes care of all involvement from other parties, providing complete co-ordination of consultants, local authorities and contractors, enabling the client to focus on core business activities.”

Euroclass has been involved in many significant projects including the 17,000 squaremetre distribution store for Croxley Stationery in Wiri, Manukau.

The company has built various Mitre 10 MEGA bulk retail stores throughout New Zealand and has also completed numerous designbuild solutions for the freight industry including Kuehne and Nagel and Express International.

Although the company is based in Auckland it has a New Zealand-wide operational range with completed projects as far afield as Kerikeri and Invercargill.

Euroclass says that combined office/residential units have proved popular for small business owners and investors.

Euroclass takes care of all involvement from other parties, providing complete co-ordination of consultants, local authorities and contractors, enabling the client to focus on core business activities.”

Proud to support Euroclass Design & Build Ltd

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28

BUILDING INNOVATIONS » CKC Holdings

Business North / April 2013

Development firm with a difference Karen Phelps A couple of Hamilton-based builders have found a solution to the typically fickle building market – create your own work.

Craig and Keith Clapson of CKC Holdings have never advertised and don’t even have a website.

They say they don’t need to as they focus on developing high investment return projects. The brothers have been focusing on providing motel complexes for Hamilton’s starved motel market after perceiving a demand.

They typically take one of three approaches: they buy the land and building then lease it out, on sell the entire project and lease it back or on sell the project and the lease.

The brothers have recently completed a 20 room motel called the Arena Court Motor Lodge in Willoughby Street. They also recently finished the 23-room Brooklyn Court Motor Lodge in Brooklyn Road, close to the Claudelands Event Centre.

Both Arena Court and Brooklyn Court has been sold to investors and the brothers will lease them back from the new owner and will operate the motels by employing a manager.

“We went into the motel market after the housing market turned to garbage.

“A lot of the motels in Hamilton are quite dated and old. Ours are modern with features such as doubling glazing making them quieter and warmer.

For investors who own the land and building they can get a 7.5% return,” explains Keith Clapson.

The brothers prefer to purchase the land giving them control of the project then sell the lease or freehold title before construction commences.

They say they aim to build at least 20-room motels as this provides a good business opportunity for a manager to step in and run the complex.

“The manager can live on site, they don’t need many staff and a 60% occupancy rate means they can earn a good living. It’s ideal for people wanting to own a business.”

The strategy is typical of the brothers’ focus on moving with the demands of the market.

“We don’t just do one type of building and that’s it. We have adjusted our business model depending on what the market is demanding then seeking to meet that need,” says Clapson.

The Clapson brothers started their business about ten years ago. Craig had previously clocked up a number of years working for a large building company. The brothers had been undertaking subdivision and spec housing in their spare time.

CKC Holdings recently finished the 23-room Brooklyn Court Motor Lodge in Brooklyn Road.

This venture had been a success so they decided to take the punt and do it full time. With Craig, a qualified builder, running the building sites and Keith running the business side of the operation, it has proved a recipe for success.

Over the years the brothers have established a reputation for tackling difficult projects and taking calculated risks.

“We have a good name and we do what we do well. Both Craig and I are on site every day. It’s one of the secrets of our business success. My bank manager says we are like two companies in one – I’m the developer and Craig is the builder.

“We’re a development company with a difference. We have the confidence and passion for Hamilton to build and take risks in the middle of a recession. There is great satisfaction in taking a grotty piece of land that a lot of people have driven past and not noticed and creating something amazing from woe to go.”

Keith Clapson says another key to their business success has been the ability to build quickly.

This allows them to make a smaller amount of money on each build, creating their income by reliance on volume. This has necessitated having

good systems in place and developing close working relationships with carefully selected local subcontractors. “We’re not too greedy. We do a lot and make a little on each one. For example in two to three months we can build seven or eight homes. This is because we are usually building many homes in the same location.

“We also have a good team of subbies who we work with and who are loyal to us.”

They also have projects on the go for social housing providers such as Housing New Zealand and are building a number of townhouses.

They have also just purchased a 7ha rugby field in Hamilton.

Plans are already into Council for a 95 house subdivision called Titoki Park.

“We’re keeping the quality high on the site and controlling everything. It also gives us consistency of work.”

Is proud to be associated with CKC Holdings Limited 4th Floor, 11 Garden Place HAMILTON The National Hotel, 47 Alpha St CAMBRIDGE

CKC Holdings 021 905 858

P: 07 838 3333 F: 07 838 2232

k-j-clap@slingshot.co.nz

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Business North / April 2013

BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Brent Stewart Construction

29

Stamping their presence in Taranaki Jo Bailey A broad skill base and years of experience has helped Brent Stewart Construction maintain and increase its building portfolio in the Taranaki building market.

The company has been at the forefront of residential, rural and light commercial building in the region for over 20 years and has adapted its portfolio to meet the changing demands of the industry, says director Brent Stewart.

“Five years ago the commercial market had a bigger part of our strategic plan but with tendering so fiercely fought and negative margins we have directed our focus to a couple of light commercial jobs each year.

“The bulk of our work is now in new residential builds, renovations, alterations, maintenance and jobbing services.”

Stewart says the company builds around six new homes a year, that lately have been more at the top end of the market.

“Our experience in commercial construction gives us an advantage in administering and running these types of projects.

“We do enjoy the challenges of building architectural homes but are just as happy constructing conventional homes off standard floor plans.”

Some of the company’s current projects include the construction of a large residential home at Tapaue Country Estate; the Omata Lodge; and several alterations and additions.

“We also do quite a few educational projects and are about to start building a new library and resource room block for Woodleigh School. We also recently finished a new gymnasium at the Highlands Intermediate School, he says.

In the last few years Brent Stewart has added a maintenance crew to his team of around 24 staff who cover a broad range of services including plumbing, carpentry, brick work, plastering, painting and papering.

Brent Stewart Construction is experienced across all sectors of the building industry.

“There was a growing demand for this sort of work, especially having teams available for immediate repair jobs.”

Stewart has a farming background and did his building apprenticeship with a company that specialised in dairy shed construction/ This experience has led to the company’s involvement in the rural market – constructing dairy sheds, herd homes, pole barns and utility sheds.

“I’ve had a lot of involvement with the dairy industry and understand the importance of good design and timely delivery of the new farm dairies.

We have a good product and a very competent and capable team delivering them.”

Whatever the project, Stewart wants his clients to be “delighted” with their choice to engage Brent Stewart Construction, which is a Licensed Building Practitioner and Registered Master Builder.

“We place a lot of importance on ensuring customer satisfaction with our planning process, service and workmanship.

“We deliver a clear construction programme and communicate regularly throughout the project to ensure it is completed on time and on budget.”

Working with sub-contractors and suppliers with the same commitment to excellence is another

important aspect of the service, he says.

“I founded the company, I’m running the business, and it’s my name out there in the market so it’s hugely important that we maintain quality at all times. I’ve seen a lot of other companies come and go over the years but we’re still here. I put that down to trust; offering value and commitment to our customers, suppliers and staff; and if there is a problem - putting it right.”

Brent Stewart Construction 06v 769 6866 stewartbuilders.office@xtra.co.nz: www.bsc.net.nz

Proud to support Brent Stewart Construction 218 De Havilland Drive, New Plymouth tel. 06 755 2113 fax. 06 755 0021 email. sales.newplymouth@metalcraftroofing.co.nz www.metalcraftroofing.co.nz

30

BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Bathroom Systems

Business North / April 2013

New focus brings new satisfaction Jo Bailey A high-profile bathroom renovation was the catalyst for a complete change of business focus for Auckland builder Brett Davy.

When a substantial tile bathroom completed by his former company Brett Davy Builders was featured in Trendz magazine in 2007, it led to a host of other bathroom projects, and the formation of a new company, Bathroom Systems.

“The recognition heightened our profile in the bathroom and renovation market, so I decided to create a standalone business that specialised in this sort of work,” says Brett Davy.

Bathroom Systems is a Licensed Building Practitioner that deals predominantly with bathroom design and construction throughout Auckland but also tackles a wide range of renovation projects including kitchens, alterations, decks, stairs and fences.

Davy says one of the biggest advantages of dealing with the company, is the ability of its team of tradesmen builders to recognise potential structural problems of a home that may not be apparent to other tradespeople involved in renovation work.

This is particularly important when it comes to renovating old villas, he says.

“Homeowners often don’t realise that the foundations and sub-structure of these old homes are unlikely to cope with the installation of modern fixtures that could include up to half a tonne of tiles in larger bathrooms.”

Bathroom Systems ensures the sub-floor structure of older homes is “up to scratch” and if not provides remedial work before any renovation project progresses to prevent leaky waterproofing, cracked tiles and “heartache” for the homeowner.

“We are also registered and approved waterproofing applicators and do all our own waterproofing work. This is another issue with older homes, which is often due to excessive movement.”

The company has several current projects underway, including the substantial extension and

renovation of a kitchen and bathroom at a Ponsonby home; and a large home renovation at Kumeu, just north of Auckland.

“We have another half-dozen bathroom renovations and other small projects on the go.

There’s more than enough to keep us on our toes,” says Davy.

He usually does the drawings for the smaller bathroom projects himself and is a preferred contractor for a number of architects and designers.

“We also work closely with Nicola Manning Design who we engage for some of our client’s more complex projects and to custom-design cabinetry for corporate jobs.”

In addition to his own team, Davy engages a regular group of sub-trades, many he has worked with since his former building company days.

“They are good guys that we have a great relationship with and can rely on.

“I give them exclusivity to do our work and around 30 percent of our work is generated by leads that come from them. We look after each other and everybody benefits.”

Davy has no regrets about moving away from general building work to focus on the bathroom and renovation market.

“Working on smaller projects and dealing directly with homeowners is a lot less stressful.

“There is also less risk, something that has been highlighted by the recent Mainzeal collapse when so many smaller building companies got burned.”

With a strong forward workload, he is happy with Bathroom Systems’ progress.

“We’re so busy that I’ve had to get back on the tools myself in the last few weeks.

“But after a couple of quieter years during the downturn in 2009 and 2010 it’s a good problem to have.”

Bathroom Systems 09 834 9300 brett@bathroomsystems.co.nz www.bathroomsystems.co.nz

Bathroom Systems deals predominantly with bathroom design and construction, but also tackles a wide range of renovation projects including kitchen alterations.

Photos: Nicola Manning Design

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BUILDING INNOVATIONS » Alarcon Construction

Business North / April 2013

31

Special division targets leaky home repair work Karen Phelps Alarcon Construction has formed a specialised leaky building repairs and re-clads division to cope with the increasing number of houses being affected by New Zealand’s leaky building syndrome.

“It is unfortunate that in today’s building industry leaky buildings are now a fact of life,” says company owner Rod Alarcon.

“As a result of the number of leaky buildings requiring our services Alarcon Construction is in high demand.

“Many property owners are finding themselves in the position of needing a company who can manage the whole complex process of having their leaky building rectified.

“Our priority is not only to restore the value of the property but to make the whole process as uncomplicated and stress free as possible.”

Alarcon says his company is increasingly building a name for itself for tackling tricky leaky home repair work.

He says good communication is the key in this type of work, especially as costings can fluctuate depending on what is discovered once the cladding is opened up.

“We give regular breakdowns of costs as the project progresses. We aim to reduce the costs and increase the speed at which we complete the project without compromising quality.

“A lot of clients are still living in the property as we complete the repair so it`s about keeping them comfortable and up to date.”

Alarcon says many homeowners have had their homes repaired only to find they are still leaking.

He says that leaky building repair work is a highly specialised area and it is vital to contract the services of a builder with a proven track record in leak building repairs.

“We promise to provide our clients with the skills and knowledge that ensures the job is done once and done right.

“All our work is undertaken in accordance with the New Zealand building code, industry standards and consented plans.”

The company works closely with the client’s own architect or alternatively Alarcon can assist with the design process through its network of trusted architects and designers.

They can take the project through the building consent process.

Once the old cladding is removed a Weathertight Building Surveyor assesses the timber framing.

Repairs are then undertaken and a timber preservative painted on existing timber.

Based in Whangaparaoa, the company was started in 2000 by Alarcon, who is an experienced carpenter and a Registered Master Builder.

He says he has built up his business through quality workmanship and word of mouth.

The company specialises in leaky building repairs, but also tackles renovations, redevelopments, fitout, light commercial, project management and new home builds.

The company completes work Auckland-wide and employs a staff of up to 15 at a time.

Alarcon says that although all projects require a great builder, they also require a network of skilled sub-contractors and tradesmen.

“We have access to the best skills and labour around. We have experienced sub-contractors and tradesmen who will ensure only top quality work is done on every project we undertake.”

Alarcon says his goal is for his business to continue to provide quality workmanship and be one of the most sought after reclad and renovation companies in Auckland.

Alarcon Construction 0800 629-794 info@alarcon.co.nz

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We give regular breakdowns of costs as the project progresses. We aim to reduce the costs and increase the speed at which we complete the project without compromising quality.”

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32

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION » Urban Solutions

Business North / April 2013

Project management blends skills Sue Russell It’s not long into the conversation with Urban Solution Ltd’s co-director Edoardo Canal that you begin to gain a sense that being successful in the complex business of infrastructure project management involves a blend of science and art.

While the science resides in understanding the complex array of processes and technologies that weave their way through each project, the artistry is somewhat more subtle, and as Canal says, the really interesting bit.

“We have concentrated our core business developing and managing infrastructure projects for local bodies.

“We are working in the public realm so how we engage with the community is fundamental to the quality of the outcome for us. Value for money is a key focus for us when solving problems and reaching robust solutions”, says Canal, who has a Bachelor of Engineering from Auckland University.

When he started the company in 2001, with fellow director and twin brother Lorenzo, the first thing they did was ground their founding principles, entwined around developing a culture of working with the five to seven staff they planned to eventually take on.

They also decided to settle on concentrating their project management and engineering services on council-driven infrastructure work in the Auckland area.

Over the past decade, Urban Solutions has contributed positively to enhance the lifestyle of Auckland’s communities by managing transformational infrastructure projects.

Examples range from sandy beaches and parks now protecting Tamaki Drive through to vibrant Newmarket Broadway’s streetscape transformation.

Before founding Urban Solutions NZ, Canal worked as an engineer in the oil and gas industry in the Middle East and in England for a decade. What prompted him to return was a sense of missing home. Lorenzo was at that time doing storm water programme management and the two decided it was time to strike out on their own, harnessing their specialised skill-sets.

Both are certified professional engineers, a status maintained by undertaking regular professional development with a focus on enhancing professional engineering practice.

Urban Solutions has helped to enhance the lifestyle of Auckland’s communities by managing transformational infrastructure projects.

The company has good staff retention, which Canal puts down to the culture of contributing to Auckland’s growth with a great deal of passion.

“It’s the net result that counts. Each one of our professional engineers and project managers has to create their own personal brand with their clients.

“People want to perform and my experience is that they do this when they are not undermined. By working this way we have been successful in all our projects.”

Canal says it is vital to have a well thought-out procurement strategy and practical project delivery plan to ensure clients get the results they expect.

Urban Solutions has expertise in procurement planning and contract management.

The company’s primary focus now is managing around 400 small roading projects for Auckland Transport.

A recently completed project has been the river bank protection works of a large commercial building in the Helensville area.

Urban Solutions was called in to find a practical, affordable solution and obtain planning permission to undertake urgent protection work that threatened a large commercial building on the banks of the Kaipara River.

As it looks toward the future, Canal acknowledges his company wants to do more work to make a real difference to Auckland’s growth.

“While Lorenzo and I think quite differently from each other we carry a common philosophy and we’re looking forward to taking that into the vast array of private sector projects, big and small.”

Urban Solutions NZ 09 377 2332: info@urbansolutions.co.nz www.urbansolutions.co.nz

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Phone: (09) 309 8209 Fax: (09) 309 0314 Email: info@cockcroft.co.nz

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION » MWN Civil

Business North / April 2013

33

Digger expertise helps pave the way Sue Russell As a young man growing up in Northland Mark Neilson always loved operating diggers, so much so that in the space of 15 years, working for Whangarei company McBreen Jenkins, he rose right through the ranks to become site supervisor.

His mastery with diggers also took him to national competitions when, in 1997, having taken out the Northland title, he represented that region in the national finals at Manfield.

Seeing the competition as not just about who got first, Neilson suggested to the organisers that they change the competitions scoring format to award points in various categories. They took on his thinking.

“I saw the competition as a really good way for me to learn about my strengths and weaknesses, so I could see where I needed to improve overall.

“By just being told who came first, second or third, you really didn’t learn much that was of value to you as an operator.”

In 2004 he moved to the North Shore and settled with wife Annie in Birkenhead starting up MWN Civil Ltd. Neilson says he didn’t know a soul when he relocated but simply by going about the business of taking on small jobs, projects the major operators weren’t interested in doing, and by sticking to the basics of delivering quality work consistently, his business eventually got noticed by company’s like Fletchers, Fulton Hogan and Leightons – big players in the civil construction business.

“Over the years I’ve made a point of building relationships with the large companies.

“I worked on Fletcher projects for three to four years and you have to prove yourself to get noticed.

“When you’ve demonstrated you’re reliable and can work well with their systems, they tend to be very loyal to you,” he says.

MWN Civil has done some big jobs around the Auckland region, sub-contracting on projects such as the Mangere Motorway bridge, the whole-street upgrade of Queen Street, widening Glenfield Road, the Newmarket Viaduct project and the Victoria Park Tunnel.

The company has employed as many as 47 men and is currently running with around 25 to 30.

When the Victoria Park job finished Neilson says he decided to keep some of the really good guys on permanently.

MWN Civil Ltd has done some big jobs around the Auckland region, sub-contracting on projects such as the Mangere Motorway bridge.

Being hands-on and taking his turn often on the truck or digger puts Neilson in a good position to see how his staff work together.

“It means I keep my finger on the pulse of the business and I’ve got a fair amount of respect from the guys in the process.

“They know I’m not too bad on the digger and I try to show them different ways to do things if I can see it will make a difference to the job.

“At the end of the day it’s all about seeing each job as a chance to learn something, me included.”

The company owns seven mini excavators as well as seven trip-trucks including a couple of sixwheelers.

Neilson has deliberately chosen to stay in the small machine market, as he says “flying under the radar” doing small jobs.

It’s a strategy that’s paid off over the years to the point where today his company is sought after to sub on lots of big projects.

“I’m a very loyal person. I’ve stuck with the same finance guy through all these years and don’t plan to shift, even though I’m often bombarded with offers of obscene amounts of loan money from other sources.

“I never imagined when I first started the business that one day I’d be inviting my business advisors, who supported us with extra personal attention, to have dinner with me at my table in the

Victoria Park Tunnel, when that project finished, but that’s just what happened.”

Currently MWN Civil has two teams working on the roll-out of ultra-fast broadband and another on the Well-Connected Alliance tunnel joining State Highway 20 to the North Western Motorway.

“I try to keep guys working in the teams and on the jobs they want to,” says Neilson.

“But they trust my judgment to make the call if I think a particular job is going to help them gain new learning.”

MWN Civil 0800 696 444 mark@mwncivil.co.nz www.mwncivil.co.nz

High levels of skills in all aspects of digger operating

A boutique firm of Chartered Accountants with 27 years New Zealand based experience that provides advice and knowledge on business to progress driven "small to medium" owner operators by creating solid relationships offering a personal service from a convenient Newmarket location.

Ground Floor Suite 2 27 Gillies Ave, Newmarket, Auckland PHONE 09 524 7570 FAX 09 524 7573 Email: kerrin@bellaconsultants.co.nz www.bellaconsultants.co.nz

• Annual Financial Statements • Tax Compliance • GST Returns/Advice • Wages & PAYE • Budgets/Cashflows • Systems (MYOB, Xero) • Company Statutory Administration Proud to be associated with MWN Civil Limited

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We guarantee a 1st time pass Only one visit in and gone Glenfield Phone 09 441 4018

120b Sunnybrae Road, Glenfield, Auckland

Silverdale Phone 09 444 1507 7 Furnace Place, Silverdale, Auckland

cornishtruckandvan@yahoo.co.nz

DIGGERS & TRUCKS DRILLING & ROCK BREAKER HIRE

www.mwncivil.co.nz 0800 MWN 4 HIRE (0800 696 444)

Silverdale Tel/fax: (09) 421 1310 Email: office@mwncivil.co.nz PO Box 340230 Birkenhead 0746 Auckland

34

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION » BTW Company

Business North / April 2013

One stop shop for land development Kelly Deeks Since it was established in 1973, Taranaki’s BTW Company has developed a professional and innovative team of specialists offering a “one stop shop” for land development projects, and providing services to the energy industry.

Based in New Plymouth, BTW Company’s permanent staff of about 50 surveyors, planners, engineers, and land and GIS specialists work in offices there and in a branch established in Napier 18 months ago to support energy industry exploration on the east coast of the North Island.

Clients range from individual property owners and business owners to multi-national companies, and include central and local government thereby requiring a broad range of expertise using traditional as well as the latest sophisticated technology.

BTW Company specialises in providing services to the energy industry, including land access for exploration work, seismic surveys, oil well drilling site design and construction, pipeline services, resource consent and environmental services, civil engineering and project management.

The company has been involved in offshore and onshore petroleum exploration and production activities, including end uses such as electricity generation, and more recently working on renewable energy projects such as wind and hydro-electric power.

A specialist area is seismic survey work, which BTW has provided since the late 1970s.

This year the company has been busy completing assessment work on earthquake prone buildings in Napier and New Plymouth, including New Plymouth Girls’ High School and Taranaki’s main entertainment and conference venue TSB Showplace.

BTW Company managing director Phil Dickey says the investigations of earthquake prone buildings involve opening up walls to discover how structures were originally constructed, and with the application of both modern software and

BTW Company specialises in providing services to the energy industry.

older, more practical engineering, BTW Company comes up with the detailed structural design for earthquake strengthening.

“Our seismic systems have been developed

Our seismic systems have been developed over 30 years of specialising in this work, with our greatest strength being the ability to identify and utilise the latest technologies.”

over 30 years of specialising in this work, with our greatest strength being the ability to identify and utilise the latest technologies,” Dickey says.

“In response to client needs for efficient project management and reporting, we have developed an in-house GIS management system for management of seismic surveying projects.”

BTW Company’s multi-disciplinary team of land access specialists, planners, surveyors and engineers specialise in taking well site development projects from the concept phase through to completion.

The company has managed the land access,

consenting, design, and construction of more than 300 well sites.

A growth area for BTW Company lately has been the result of changes to the National Environmental Standard for assessing and managing contaminants in soil.

“If a developer is looking to build a residential development over an old petrol station or an old industrial area, it has to be proven the soil is not contaminated,” Dickey says.

“It is only early days for this new legislation.

Everyone is learning the rules, and it’s something that is happening more and more.”

BURGESS & CROWLEY CIVIL LTD Burgess & Crowley Civil are proud to be associated with BTW Company • EARTHMOVING • CIVIL ENGINEERING • DRAINAGE • SUPPLIERS OF METAL • LAND DEVELOPMENT Head Office P.O. Box 150, Inglewood Ph 06-756 8096. Email: owen@bccl.net.nz Mobile 0274 432 353

Proud to be associated with BTW Company

MATTHEW HAREB

P.O. BOX 9087

NEW PLYMOUTH

mhareb_excavating@hotmail.com

Read More Online VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.waterfordpress.co.nz FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SEE OUR OTHER PUBLICATIONS

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION » BTW Company

Business North / April 2013

35

BTW Company managing director Phil Dickey - long involvement in surveying industry.

BTW Company is an active member of the business community. It is a member of the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce, the Petroleum Exploration and Production Association of NZ, and the Oil and Gas Specialist Technologies group.

“One project we’re particularly proud of involves the disposal of cuttings and drilling mud from drilling operations, where a bentonite clay is used to help hold the well open and circulate the water,” Dickey says.

“We land farm these drilling cuttings and mud in sand dune country. We level the dunes then apply the drilling mud and cuttings into the sand at

about 100ml thick, and replant it in pasture.”

To date BTW Company has been involved in turning hundreds of hectares of levelled out sand dunes in Taranaki into prime dairy pasture.

BTW Company 06 759 5040 survey@btwcompany.co.nz www.btwcompany.co.nz

Hareb Deken Motors IMVIA / RMVT

331 St. Aubyn Street, New Plymouth

» Taranaki’s 4WD dealers » Luxury and quality 4WD vehicles Proudly supplying and servicing business vehicles to BTW Company

BTW has been involved in offshore and onshore petroleum exploration and production activities.

PROUD TO SUPPORT

BTW Company Ltd

331 St. Aubyn Street New Plymouth Ph/Fax 06 759 9943 Email harebdeken@clear.net.nz www.harebdekenmotors.co.nz

oving-taranaki.co.nz PH 06 278 5239 • E info@earthm • TARANAKI COBRA NOMINEES LTD 0 416 era Haw • 74 PO Box

www.earthmoving-taranaki.co.nz

36

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION » United Civil Construction

Business North / April 2013

Ownership change for United Civil Karen Phelps Two key stakeholders in United Civil Construction have bought out the company, with managing director Andrew Campbell and operations manager Paul Mandeno now the sole owners.

Campbell, who holds a Bachelor of Civil Engineering and a New Zealand Certificate in Civil Engineering, has extensive experience in civil engineering design, management and construction supervision.

He joined United Civil Construction in 2004 as a project manager. In 2006 Campbell became a shareholder and the managing director of United Civil Construction and has since overseen a 300% growth in company revenues.

Campbell says that while his primary focus is the management and growth of the business he will continue to maintain an overview of various construction projects undertaken by the company.

Mandeno, who holds a New Zealand Certificate in Civil Engineering, has extensive experience in the construction of high value and complex civil engineering works.

Mandeno has been responsible for the successful delivery of several projects with values in excess of $10 million, with particular experience in the water and wastewater reticulation and road construction projects.

Since 2006 United Civil Construction staff numbers have doubled and revenues tripled, as the company has expanded its operations.

Although to date most of the company’s work has been in Northland, Campbell says the next step for the company will be to spread its wings further afield, growing its market share nationwide.

The company is presently undergoing a rebranding, but Campbell says the buyout will mean no changes for clients. “The overall aim is to expand beyond Northland where the majority of the company’s work is presently based. The management buyout has given us the opportunity to refocus and reprioritise but geographical expansion remains a key part of our overall strategy.”

• Adding value - page 38

United Civil Construction plans to spread its wings further afield, growing its market share nationwide.

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GRAEME BIRD CONCRETE CUTTING & DRILLING With out vast experience and high level of Health & Safety standards and workmanship, we can provide help with all your concrete cutting requirements.

Proud to be associated with United Civil Construction Ltd Mobile: 0274 976 550 Email: graemebird@vodafone.co.nz

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CONTACT US TODAY ON 03 983 5514

Business North / April 2013

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION » United Civil Construction

37

Ecoflow offers solutions The issue of old septic tanks breaking down and polluting waterways is a common issue facing many councils. Ecoflow, which was started in 2007 by wastewater engineers Karl Sentch and Jon McGettigan, offers a low cost solution to the problem that councils face in removing old failing septic tank systems.

The technology offered by Ecoflow is a new type of sewer system called Pressure Sewer from Environment One Corporation (Eone). It utilises a grinder pump at each dwelling that pumps all the waste off site via a small bore flexible pipe network to a municipal pump station or treatment plant.

Sentch says that EOne effectively eliminates the problems and disadvantages of gravity systems and at a lower cost. Because the waste is pumped through small bore pipes that follow the contours of the ground installation costs are minimized.

The pipe system made from flexible polyethylene pipe means that in the occurrence of an earthquake the system has the ability to move with the shakes rather than remaining rigid and cracking. Because the pipe comes in long lengths less joins are required so the system is robust and any joins are fully welded.

The system is sealed so there is no opportunity for stormwater infiltration making EOne a smart alternative to protect the environment. Sentch says that pressure switches in the pump head for starting and

stopping the pump eliminate the need for float switches which are known to fail. An integral check valve protects against system back pressure and an anti-siphon valve facilitates downhill pumping applications.

The system is also low cost to run - Sentch estimates annual power consumption to be around $25 per household, depending on the household’s water consumption.

Ecoflow’s turn-key service extends from initial design phase through to installation and commissioning if necessary and full back-up support. The EOne installation also comes complete with an IP65 weather-proof alarm panel which protects the pump from low voltage, running dry and over pressure situations. The alarms are backed up by Ecoflow’s 24-hour service line.

Ecoflow has installed around 5000 units in the North Island including lakeside community projects at Rotorua and housing projects at Huapai and Kumeu.

Ecoflow is the sole New Zealand agent for the supply and maintenance of the Environment One Corporation system and supplies to a variety of clients including engineering consultants, council assets managers, operations engineers and homeowners.The EOne system comes with a standard two-year warranty but extended warranties and different levels of service contract are available.

For more information contact ecoflow: www.ecoflow.co.nz

PRESSURISED SEWER SYSTEMS The PROVEN, RELIABLE and COST EFFECTIVE alternative for sewering: Flat, Hilly, Rocky and High Water Table areas.

Contact New Zealand's market leading pressurised sewer specialists to find out how 16b Piermark Drive, Albany, Auckland | P: (09) 447 1793 | F: (09) 447 3901 E: info@ecoflow.co.nz | www.ecoflow.co.nz

Northland owned and operated for over 40 years WEBB CONTRACTING – combining energy, enthusiasm and expertise Specialists in: • Drainage • Siteworks • Drilled and driven pile foundations Working across the Far North, Whangarei and Kaipara – talk to us about your next project today.

Call Bruce 027 286 7576 or Sam 027 424 3292

Proud to work with

United Civil CONSTRUCTION LTD

38

CIVIL CONSTRUCTION » United Civil Construction

Business North / April 2013

Adding value for clients the key aim Karen Phelps United Civil Construction has built its reputation by offering added value to clients, says company managing director Andrew Campbell.

“We’re not just about turning up and reading plans,” says Campbell.

“We see ourselves as a professional services company doing construction.”

“We want to add value. It’s about bringing our IP to a project, always looking for ways to add value in terms of methods, materials and different ways of doing things.”

A recent example is the company’s work on the Opua Sanitary Works Scheme for the Far North District Council.

The project involved designing and constructing a low pressure sanitary sewer reticulation system for 170 properties.

It involved decommissioning all the existing septic tanks and putting pump stations on every property.

“The original plan involved multiple booster pump stations and we managed to reconfigure the design so that only one was necessary,” says Campbell. “That marked a considerable saving.”

The project is tracking to be completed on budget and three months ahead of schedule.

United Civil Construction has also recently completed a one quarter billion litre water storage lagoon for Fonterra’s Kauri Dairy Factory which involved construction of an earth dam lined with polyethylene.

The company has also just completed the Hatea sewer pump system upgrade and emergency storage tank project, installing new pumps and constructing below ground a one million litre precast concrete storage tank.

Campbell says the company’s innovative approach has been reflected in the number of awards it has won.

These include a 2009 New Zealand Contractors Federation construction award for category 4 projects worth between $5m and $20m for the Whangarei Heads sewerage scheme project, which extended the district’s sewer reticulation network to improve water quality.

United Civil Construction 09 438 0354 info@unitedcivil.co.nz www.unitedcivil.co.nz

United Civil Construction prides itself on its ability to add value for client’s projects.

The Cape Reinga seal extension project, which saw United Civil Construction sealing the northernmost section of State Highway 1, was also an award winner.

It took out a 2009 Roading New Zealand Excellence best practice award for environmental sustainability and the company also won the 2011 Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand Arthur Mead environment and sustainability award for its work on the project.

“We are passionate about the projects we build, proud of the people who work for us and are committed to providing exceptional value and service to all of our customers.”

Stabilizing Northland for over 25 years Pavement Recycling & Aggregate Modification Supply and Spread Pre Blended Binders Foamed Bitumen Recycling

Concrete company purchase United Civil Construction has acquired a major shareholding in Panel Tech Construction Limited which specialises in structural concrete works.

United Civil Construction managing director Andrew Campbell says this will give it greater control over this crucial aspect of projects.

“Our projects typically involved structural concrete works and now we will have the ability to offer this service to our clients inhouse rather than having to outsource it.

“This will give clients a single point of delivery and means we can now take on even larger structural concrete projects.”

The acquisition will also assist the company in a significant project it is undertaking for Refining NZ. United Civil Construction will undertake the majority of the civil and civil structural works which include precast and structural concrete

for the $365 million expansion of petrol making facilities at the Marsden Point refinery.

Works will include earthworks, services, bund construction and concrete foundations.

Campbell expects the project will take his company around 12 months to complete.

He says the acquisition of Panel Tech will also assist the company in a number of other major projects it is currently working on including the upgrade of the main waste water treatment plant in Whangarei to increase the plant’s capacity.

Campbell says that despite the recent recession United Civil Construction staff numbers have peaked at 60.

He expects this number to increase to 80 with the NZ Refining project. Current aims, of which the Panel Tech acquisition is a key part, are to consolidate the company and build up civil structural capacity.

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Specialist stabilizing contractor to United Civil on many landmark projects throughout Whangarei and Northland For professional friendly advice please contact: Ross McLean 021 280 1052 or Mike Nelson 021 805 799 info@hiways.co.nz

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CIVIL CONSTRUCTION » Jesmond Construction

Business North / April 2013

39

Innovative firm tackles the unusual Kelly Deeks Auckland based Jesmond Construction Ltd has been innovative in the civil construction industry with a proven track record as a principle contractor for more than 20 years.

Able to carry out multiple contracts at the same time, Jesmond Construction has such diversity in its skilled workforce it can turn its hand to anything including roading, drainage, earthworks, concrete works, and design and build projects.

Gary and Dianne Harris started Jesmond Construction in 1994, after Gary took a break from the construction industry to successfully train thoroughbred race horses.

A family business with traditional values, today sees Gary and Dianne’s daughter Tania Jones working in the management and health and safety aspect of the business, while their son Dean runs the drainage gangs.

Gary Harris says he enjoys taking on the types of projects that are different to the usual run of the mill construction projects.

One such project, completed recently, was the construction of a 330-metre long sea wall at Helensville.

The erosion protection wall has been built in order to stem erosion and protect an existing building sitting on the river bank.

A team of six worked on the build with two excavators and a large hydraulic timber and rock grab which placed the 1m boulders that made up the wall.

“The wall was built out of rocks in the Kaipara river so tidal movements had to be taken into consideration every day while the work was being completed,” says Harris.

“We had to excavate the bank to the right grade, then lay very heavy, high grade geotech cloth down to separate the rocks from the mud, so that no erosion could take place under the rocks.”

Over the last 20 years, Jesmond Construction has been involved in some other interesting projects.

The company constructed the Rosa Birch Synthetic Hockey Field, a five month project completed in April 2011.

“This was the first project let by the newly formed Auckland Council,” Harris says.

“We were to build a new synthetic hockey field adjacent to the old hockey field at Rosa Birch Park in Pukekohe.

“We did all the earthworks, drainage, sub base, fencing and retaining works with all our own labour, machinery and equipment.”

The sea wall at Helensville has been built in order to stem erosion and protect an existing building on the river bank.

Jesmond Construction built 650 metres of fences at Rosa Birch, ranging from 1m to 6m high and requiring footings up to 4m deep.

It also completed the upgrade of the existing car park entry road from Beresford Street, which included 220m of concrete block retaining walls ranging from 1m to 1.6m high.

It also installed eight floodlight bases, and the Counties Hockey Association were extremely happy with their new synthetic turf.

Jesmond Construction has built two tramlines in the past 6 years, the first an extension to the Motat tramway at Western Springs.

The contract consisted of the construction of 620m route length of reclaimed street tramway, plus loops and sidings giving a total track length of 810m.

“Continuous traffic control had to be put in place, as Motions Road is a very busy road with the traffic from Auckland Zoo, local Western Springs College and The Performing Arts Training Centre,” Harris says.

The majority of the construction was over a disused tip, with a specialist form of ground stabilisation - impact rolling - used to compress and strengthen the bearing surface. A bulk fill area employed the use of polyrock to protect a 1914 existing sewer.

Up to 500mm depth of GAP65 was then placed over a geotextile membrane onto which a 100mm thick by 3000mm wide reinforced concrete bed was laid. The reclaimed rail was cut, straightened, drilled and curved to suit and laid on packers on the concrete bed to the specified tolerances.

The whole was then encased in a 200mm deep by 2400mm wide reinforced concrete surround.

The project was so successful it led to a nomination for the NZ Contractors Federation Construction Awards.

From this project Jesmond Construction went on to build the new Tramway in the Wynyard Quarter that was completed on time for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Jesmond Construction 09 294 8319 Gazah@xtra.co.nz www.jesmondconstruction.co.nz

We are located at Pukekawa, we are a small family business with extensive experience in driveways, farm maintenance with excavators, house sites, industrial sites, subdivisions small and large, also bulk quarry work

Dean is always happy to give a free quote Ph 09 233 4355 Mobile 027 284 6496 Fax 09 233 4355 RD1 Tuakau

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84 Adams Drive PUKEKOHE CONTACT US TODAY ON 03 983 5514

Phone 09 238 8396 Mob 021 827 826

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40

AUTOMOTIVE » Rigs n Things / Hamilton Collision Repairs

Business North / April 2013

Truck specialist in for the long haul Karen Phelps Offering a start-to-finish manufacturing service has become a point of difference for Stratfordbased company Rigs n Things: “We complete every aspect of the process on-site, which is unusual for our industry,” says company director Mervyn Hooper.

“We feel this gives us greater control over quality as the job never leaves the site until it’s finished.”

Hooper and wife Cathy started Rigs n Things in 2000.

The company name was dreamed up over a coffee and the idea for the business was generated from a magazine article Mervyn had come across about the importation of trucks into New Zealand.

Rigs n Things started off purchasing trucks from auction houses based in New Zealand, refurbishing them then on-selling them to clients. Soon the company began importing its own trucks.

Today Rigs n Things has a number of aspects to its business.

Small- to medium-size Isuzu trucks are imported and sold to roading and general contracting and drilling companies among others.

Rigs n Things also has a truck rental division with a fleet that includes box body trucks, a 2.9 tonne crane with flatdeck, flatdeck curtain-siders and tipping trucks from two to five tonne payload.

“Because we custom-build all the bodies for these rental trucks, the tipping bodies are longer than usual making them more user friendly,” says Hooper.

TRUCK & 4WD DISMANTLERS END OF MAYNE STREET WAITARA

 Phone Joe, Dave or Bruce Phone 06 754 9006 Bus 0800 TRUCK1 0800 878 251

Fax Mobile Postal E-mail Web

(06) 754 8966 027 296 3224 68 Strange Street, Waitara 4320, Taranaki, New Zealand t_t_d@xtra.co.nz | ann.ttd@xtra.co.nz www.taranakitruckdismantlers.co.nz

Hours 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday Weekends & AHrs just phone

“We are dismantlers of: • Toyota • Nissan • Kenworth • Daihatsu • Freightliner • ERF • Isuzu • Volvo • Buses • Mitsubishi • Renault • Mazda Titan • Mack • Ford Trader Too many to list. Visit Website.

Rigs n Things is LTSA-certified for the manufacture of heavy vehicles to LT 400 level.

The company has its own garnet blasting and paint shop on-site where it offers rust removal from truck chassis and bodies before painting. Rigs n Things undertakes the supply and crimping of hydraulic hose.

The mainstay of work though is derived from the company’s steel fabrication shop where considerable expertise has been built up in coach building and the manufacture of tipping bodies for light- to medium-sized trucks.

The fabrication shop has a 160-tonne brake press to make the job easier and quicker and services offered include custom built tipping bodies, one off pump systems, manufacture of slurry and mixing units and twin cable drum de-coiling units.

In order to service its customers’ needs the company also services trucks. It also completes pre-checks for certificates of fitness so customers know what repairs are required to achieve compliance.

Doing everything in-house not only increases quality levels but can also often make the job cheaper, says Hooper. It has also led the company to target niches that others are reluctant to pursue including smaller bodies.

“By manufacturing everything ourselves we can keep prices economical for the customer which means this smaller work has proved profitable,” says Hooper.

The company is also often approached to take on challenging jobs such as narrowing a 12.5m campervan imported from the United States which the owners discovered was too wide for New Zealand road regulations by a mere 100mm. Rigs n Things spent three months narrowing the van to achieve compliance.

Rigs n Things employs six staff including one apprentice.

Every staff member is a qualified tradesperson and many are also qualified welders.

Cathy takes on the office administration work.

“You have to invest in training and retaining staff,” sasy Hooper.

“Having good staff is how a business gets ahead.”

Rigs n Things works for clients nationwide.

The company is presently completing a tipping body for McDonough Contracting in Invercargill.

Hooper says this past year has been the best in five years.

“When our customers do well; we do well.

We have no urgency to grow rapidly.

“Sure and steady is our focus as we aim to be here for the long haul.”

Rigs n Things 06 765 8223

Quality service reaps rewards Sue Russell When Bevan and Carolyn Marshall took the deep breath and made the decision to go out on their own six years ago in the competitive panel beating and paint industry they felt confident it was the right thing to do.

Though Hamilton Collision Repairs, located in Ellis Street is in its infancy as a company, Bevan has been a panel beater for 25 years, and along with his team of five other staff, they carry a combined wisdom of over 50 years repairing all manner of damaged vehicles.

“It was a big decision to form our own company and looking back the timing was challenging as it was right at the beginning of a recession,” says Carolyn. “I think Bevan’s reputation in the industry was a big factor in our success and our mission has always been to offer a quality service with minimal disruption to the customer.”

Bevan’s trade background is in panel-beating and over the years he’s become expert at repairing 4 WD vehicles and receives work from as far afield as Auckland and Taupo.

The company joined the Motor Trade Association about 18 months ago and is a member of the Collision Repair Association of New Zealand, formerly known as the NZ Motor Body Builders’ Association.

“The boys get up to the minute training through the I-CAR training facility which is really good because the courses are delivered well,” says Carolyn. “They’re on about three year training cycles so they’re all up to speed with latest specs and repair technologies.”

I-CAR NZ founded in 1987 as a not for profit training organisation whose primary purposes is to up skill those working in the industry so that

quality, safety and efficiency for the consumer are constantly being improved. Over time is has developed courses specific for New Zealand’s collision repair industry.

Bevan uses a Car-O-Liner wireless blue-tooth computerised chassis straightener machine which he purchased shortly after going out on his own.

At $100,000 it was a big decision to invest in the machine but he says its technology ensures the highest quality outcomes for his customers.

Marshall says panel beating and painting is a competitive industry where the best advertising is word of mouth.

“I think it is really important that consumers understand they always have a choice about who they use to repair their vehicles.

“Insurance companies often point them in one direction as the preferred provider, but they’re free to go where they wish.”

The company offers a life-time guarantee for all repair work undertaken provided the vehicle remains in the customers ownership.

While Hamilton Collision repairs may not be one of the biggest players in town it has grown solidly by reputation, something the Marshall’s find very satisfying.

It offers free courtesy cars, a full range of repair services on all vehicle makes and models – car, truck or marine covering anything from a small scratch or rust repair for a WoF through to a major collision repair.

Hamilton Collision Repairs 07 848 2089 hamiltoncollision@xtra.co.nz www.hamiltoncollision.co.nz

Proudly Supporting Hamilton Collision Reapirs LTD

rigsnthings@ihug.co.nz

Call us 0800 108 008 Visit us www.rali.co.nz

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Specialists in underground Utilities & Services Installations - Network builds.

30 Katere Road, New Plymouth | Phone/Fax: 06 758 8867 | Email: office@centralhdd.co.nz

CONTACT US TODAY ON 03 983 5514

AUTOMOTIVE » Busy Body Auto Refinishers

Business North / April 2013

41

Motorhomes bring new opportunity Karen Phelps Targeting the growing motorhome market has provided Busy Body Auto Refinishers with a different customer base.

The company attended the Covi SuperShow in Auckland last year and got a good response, says company director Stephen Porter.

Work for caravans and motorhomes now accounts for around 20% of turnover.

Located in West Auckland, Busy Body Auto Refinishers was started in 1986 by Porter. The company is now one of the longest serving coach and truck repair companies in New Zealand that offers a complete service from start to finish. Busy Body Auto Refinishers’ facilities include a 17-metre spray painting booth and workshop.

Services include general and accident repairs, spray painting, vehicle logo design and branding and restoration both inside and out of vehicles.

Services also include providing quotes on site as required and the pick-up and delivery of a vehicle.

The mainstay of work is commercial buses, coaches and trucks but the company also completes work on mini vans, horse floats, vans, large machinery, boats, trains, fire engines, ambulances and trams.

Porter, a qualified coach builder who has clocked up more than 40 years industry experience, is backed by his team of staff and contract workers including qualified coachbuilders, panel beaters, spray painters, fibreglass repairers, electricians and signwriters.

The company is an approved repairer for all the major insurance companies. This means that in the case of an accident clients can simply have their vehicle towed to Busy Body Auto Refinishers.

“We have been doing insurance repairs for over 25 years. After dropping off their vehicle all people have to do is to ring their insurance company and lodge their claim and we will handle the rest,” says Porter.

“We are very aware especially with commercial vehicles that people want to be back on the road quickly. We can take care of everything and work very hard to get the job done efficiently.”

Branding for commercial vehicles is also another aspect of the business.

The service is also popular with motorhome owners wanting to customise their vehicle.

Busy Body Auto Refinishers has made good inroads into servicing the motorhome market.

“As we have been in business for so long, we have had the privilege to see fashions, even in vehicles, come and go,” says Porter.

“The most modern of vehicles deserve the best in colour and sign writing while the older vehicles need to be restored to preserve the beauty of the past.

“Our team of contract workers can design the most modern logos and branding.

“Whether a vehicle is old or new, we can make sure your vehicle will be noticed on the road for all the right reasons.”

In order to offer even higher levels of customers service Busy Body Auto Refinishers has just upgraded its computer system, revamped its offices and launched a new website to make it even easier

for people to find and learn about the business.

“We have always prided ourselves on good old fashioned service and although we will keep this up, we have also come into the 21st century,” says Porter with a smile.

“Our plan is for continued growth and to be recognised as one of the best.”

Busy Body Auto Refinishers 09 818 9881 enquiries@busybody.org.nz www.busybody.org.nz

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42

AUTOMOTIVE » Kent Valley Commercials

Business North / April 2013

Demand strong for vacuum trucks Karen Phelps The importation of vacuum trucks has been a key growth area for Tauranga company Kent Valley Commercials after the Christchurch earthquake.

The trucks have been popular down south for assisting with the clean-up, says Dave Sutton, company managing director.

“They are also being utilised in other parts of the country for septic tank clean-up work and hydrojetting and by directional drilling companies,” says Sutton.

Kent Valley Commercials imports a variety of small- to large-commercial vehicles including flat decks, four-wheel-drives, double cabs, crane trucks and box trucks.

The trucks can also be imported to order. The company also has a rental division, which sees it hiring out mainly box trucks.

“These trucks can be driven with a normal car license up to the size of six tonnes making them ideal for moving furniture etc.”

Kent Valley Commercials employs five staff and has its own offices and a large yard to store vehicles.

Sutton says the company gets a lot of repeat business proving it must be doing something right.

It is the preferred supplier for Methanex, while Hadlee & Brunton, Port of Tauranga and Supermac Holdings Ltd are other regular clients.

“The commercial vehicle importation business is only for those truly passionate about commercial vehicles,” says Sutton, who scours the internet each day “looking for the best deals”.

He says that some auction houses that the company deals with are dealer-only, making it easier to secure a good price for customers.

“We understand the market price in Japan and our customers' market spending power. We only purchase vehicles within a reasonable market price.”

Sutton says that Japanese mandatory inspection helps maintain vehicles in a high standard condition making purchasing a used Japanese vehicle a good deal for customers.

“Japanese vehicles are known to have very low mileage.

“Expensive road tolls, congested streets and a great public transport system result in vehicles having a lot less wear and tear compared to the average vehicle.

“On top of all this Japanese vehicles come with higher specification interiors,” he says.

Sutton says gone are the days when odometers were sometimes wound back, with the auction houses that the company deals with guaranteeing the mileage is correct.

The importation of vacuum trucks has been a key growth area for Tauranga company Kent Valley Commercials after the Christchurch earthquake.

Checks are also made at port to ensure the reading is the same as at the auction house.

Sutton says that the internet is a growing tool for sales. Kent Valley Commercials sells on trademe and Sutton says that its own website is one of its main sales tools where all vehicles for sale are listed.

All of the company’s pricing includes gst and onroad costs. Vehicles can be delivered anywhere in New Zealand.

Kent Valley Commercials’ head office in Japan is a major purchaser of all makes and models of vehicles.

The company’s own sales team from New Zealand heads across to Japan regularly and Sutton says this means they are able to meet any special vehicle requirements a customer may have.

All vehicles are thoroughly checked, serviced, groomed and speedos independently verified.

If someone imports a vehicle that does not meet this standard then they can’t register the vehicle in New Zealand. It can be an expensive mistake.”

Kent Valley Commercials works with a regular team of suppliers including Problast, Peake Panel and Paint, Trideck Engineering, RWR Tauranga and Vehicle Testing New Zealand.

Sutton says there can be many pitfalls when importing commercial vehicles.

“A typical mistake first time importers make is importing vehicles that do not meet the current Euro4 emission standard regulation that is now in

effect in New Zealand.

“If someone imports a vehicle that does not meet this standard then they can’t register the vehicle in New Zealand. It can be an expensive mistake,” he says.

Sutton says this is why Kent Valley Commercials only imports late model vehicles.

The company generally offers around 80-85 trucks on its Tauranga site at any one time.

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CONTACT US TODAY ON 03 983 5514

0800 80 90 20

17 Amber cres, Judea, Tauranga www.bopwindscreens.co.nz

SEE US NOW We service and repair: • Cars • Buses • Vans • Motor homes & mowing equipment Plus we do: • WOF Inspections • Heavy vehicle wheel alignments • Certificate of fitness repairs • Hi-ab • Cherry picker • EWP certification • Heavy vehicle chassis straightening • Certified tow bars another speciality TRANSPORT MAINTENANCE - 115 3rd Ave, Tauranga Contact Joe or Bill 577 9895 or 0274 767 677

AUTOMOTIVE » Kent Valley Commercials

Business North / April 2013

43

Kent Valley Commercials is constantly updating its fleet and generally has around 80-85 trucks on its Tauranga site at any one time.

Sutton says the big names – Isuzu and Nissan – are still the most in demand.

The company supplies vehicles to clients in New Zealand and occasionally to the Pacific Islands.

Kent Valley Commercials recently delivered a hire vehicle to the Chatham Islands and sold a crane truck to Rarotonga.

Kent Valley Commercials began in the midnineties as Kent Valley Wholesale Cars.

The company was then taken over by Japanese owned car exporter Trendy Information Co Ltd in 2001. Trendy Information was the company that Kent Valley Wholesale Cars had used in Tokyo when importing vehicles.

The focus of Kent Valley Commercials subsequently changed to commercial vehicles after a gap was spotted in the New Zealand market for a company solely focusing on this.

Trendy Information Co. Ltd has been in business for over 20 years.

Trendy Information began with just a two person team.

Over time the company has grown to over 110 professional staff positioned all around the world.

The company’s products include new and used cars, trucks, and construction machinery and new car parts.

Kent Valley Commercials 07 578 3247 info@kentvalley.co.nz www.kentvalley.co.nz

Courtney Road Panel Beaters

Specialising in:

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Competitive prices Insurance and private repairs • Classic vehicle specialists • Restorations • Plastic welding

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Proud to support Kent Valley Commercials Phone: 578 4441

109 3rd Avenue West, Tauranga Gavin Banyard A/Hours: 548 1254 Mobile: 027 492 7242

Errol Uttinger A/Hours: 576 4647 Mobile: 027 492 7241

74 Courtney Road, Tauranga | P. 07 578 2654 | E. courtneyrdpanel@xtra.co.nz

Proud to support Kent Valley Commercials Touch ups • Repaints • Repairs Insurance & Restoration Work Greg Kilworth Phone/Fax: (07) 577 6238 Email: greg@protouch.co.nz Mobile: 0274 719 403 323A Fraser Street, Tauranga

Going underground with safety Underground locating specialist Detect Services is making the most of some of the best radar detection technology available in New Zealand and putting it to work all over the country in both the ultra-fast broadband roll-out and earthquake strengthening work.

Detect Services was formed in 1993

by Graham Mist, who has been involved with subsurface locating for more than 30 years. Primarily operating as a subsurface utility locating service in the electricity industry, Detect Services has since progressed to offer a complete underground locating service.

Today the company offers a comprehensive locating service in New Zealand and the Pacific for all utility owners including the energy industry, the oil and petrochemical industries, and consultants using the most up to date ground penetrating radar and radio frequency equipment available.

Detect Services has been heavily involved in recent earthquake strengthening projects, with state-of-the-art concrete imaging radar equipment allowing its technicians to establish the level of steel reinforcement contained within any type of concrete structure.

The company has also been busy this year with the roll-out of the government’s ultra-fast broadband (UFB) plan, bringing fibre even closer to homes and businesses all around New Zealand.

With ground penetrating radar and radio frequency locating equipment, Detect Services works alongside drilling

companies to ensure new cables can be laid without hitting existing utility services.

Mist says Detect Services’ focus is to prevent the damage of underground plant, and few companies have a stronger track record or expertise in this field.

“We minimise the situation of people damaging underground plant when we’ve been on site.

“We want to stop people from damaging underground plant, it saves our clients a lot of money, and keeps the utility owners very happy.”

Detect Services experience in underground locating, and in using the associated equipment, has Mist consulting as a trainer in New Zealand and Australia for other companies on how to use their own locating equipment.

In conjunction with some of these companies, as well as locating equipment supplier Avo New Zealand, Detect Services is making steps towards establishing a New Zealand Standard for location services.

Avo New Zealand managing director Trevor Lord says the idea has been eight years in the making, and over the past couple of years, the ultra-fast broadband roll-out in Australia and New Zealand has forced the issue.

“The amount of work being done in large centres is the biggest risk to buried infrastructure we’ve ever seen,” says Lord.

“What we’ll be able to provide here is a method that’s been carefully worked out and proven, based on a lot of field experience.”

DETECT SERVICES

Detect Services offers a complete underground locating service.

Concrete Imaging Radar Company in NZ with the latest Concrete Imaging Radar equipment available to look for reinforcing steel in concrete buildings and floor slabs.

Ground Penetrating Radar Surveys.

Leading Subsurface utility locating company in NZ Underground Locating Services

Specialist Skills:

Following is a list of some of our core services.

• Ground Penetrating Radar Surveys • Underground Cable & Utility Locating • Utility Service Locating and Mapping • Locate depth, position and spatial orientation of Metallic and Non Metallic pipes, cables, drums, tanks and culverts etc.

• "As Built” documentation & Drafting • Concrete Slab thickness estimates • Locating ducts and cables in concrete floors • Rebar pattern identification and locations • Radio Frequency locating and surveys • Oil and Gas flow line surveys • Site surveys • Locating unmarked grave sites • Locating buried valves • Engineering Services

We have over thirty years of experience and practical knowledge in Subsurface Locating.

Experienced and skilled including a sound knowledge and familiarity of the various types of specialist locating equipment we have available. Detect Services has developed a competitive edge in the use of New Technology and in utility locating procedures.

There is no substitute for experience. Linkages with specialist national and international organisations are also maintained and developed to ensure clients receive superior service.

PO Box 5114 New Plymouth, New Zealand

Phone: 06 751 1126 Fax: 06 751 1152 Mobile 027 445 4860 or 021 262 4337 Email detect.services@xtra.co.nz

www.detectservices.co.nz