Business North February 2015

February 2015

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Millwater Rising Pages 4-10

Institute says price fall not realistic Chris Hutching The Property Institute says homeowners should ignore recent warnings of a house price fall.

Institute chief executive Ashley Church says Reserve Bank Governor Graeme Wheeler’s recent warnings are at odds with the reality of the Auckland property market.

And Church say these are the reasons: • Auckland’s property boom is driven by demand for an additional 39,000 houses and demand is likely to continue for more than three more years and possibly longer.

• There have only been two sharp corrections in the kiwi property market since the 1970’s, the first in the mid-1970’s after New Zealand lost

access to the British export market and a dramatic increase in oil prices. The second after 2007 was the result of a major hit to the world economy and then the fall was only around 5% • The current boom is far more likely to end with a whimper rather than a fall – only to start rising again four or five years later Church said it was Mr Wheeler’s job to “try and dampen the market”.

Meanwhile a recent Branz housing report finds that the national average home ownership rate in 2013 was 64.8% down 9 percentage points from 1991.

The rate of home ownership is unevenly distributed across the country with the Gisborne region having the lowest rate at 59.2% followed

by Auckland (61.5%), and Waikato (62.7).

The South Island, and particularly the top of the South Island, had higher rates of home ownership than the North Island.

Younger households are living in rented accommodation for longer and not achieving the same rates of home ownership as previous generations.

If these trends continue regional home ownership rates of less than 50% in two decades are possible, Branz says.

Over the past 10 years the apartment market has been dominated by investors. The rate of home ownership for households living in multiunit dwellings was 36% in 2013 compared with 72% for households living in standalone houses.

New Zealand’s population is projected to continue to increase and number of households

is projected to grow by 14 % between 2013 and 2026.

The rate of home ownership is projected to continue to decline over the next 13 years driven in part by the natural progression of the age cohorts with lower rates of home ownership though the population to 2026. The national rate of home ownership is projected to fall another 5.2 percentage points to 59.6% by 2026, Branz says.

Meanwhile more Auckland first home buyers are calling on family loans and gifts to help fund their purchases.

Barfoot & Thompson commissioned research which found nearly 47% of people who bought their first home in the past five years received some form of financial assistance from a family member.

Auck hotels on “bull run” Chris Hutching New Zealand hotels are running at near-full capacity. Auckland had record occupancy levels of 82.2% last year - up 4% from the previous year.

Other regions also showing strong growth include Queenstown, which recorded a 9% increase in occupancy in the last 12 months to reach 73.5%, Rotorua was up 4% to 71% and Wellington reached 74.6%.

Dean Humphries, national director of Hotels for Colliers International, says this is the start of “a bull run”. He predicts Auckland’s occupancy rates will increase to more than 85% over the next two to three years.

Humphries says there are virtually no new hotels under construction in Auckland – but some hotels are expanding and building more rooms.

International visitor numbers to New Zealand reached almost 2.85 million last year - a 5% increase from 2013, and will be swelled further this year when New Zealand hosts a number of major sporting events including the ICC Cricket World cup, the Fifa U-20 Football World Cup and the Volvo Ocean race.

“All this translates to significant increases in property values for existing hotel owners and signals the end of an era were guests can stay in four and five star hotels for rates much under $200 per night,” he says.

“Average room rates are set to rise significantly.

They increased 5% in 2014 and are forecast to increase by the same level again this year.”

INSIDE

Tapping into the luxury market....

The luxury 63-metre Oceanic Discoverer passenger liner undergoing maintenance work recently at Ship Repair NZ’s Whangarei slipway. The vessel has been with the company several times for survey and general repairs recently, reflecting the company’s growing reputation in the marketplace for its work on luxury vessels.

Optimism for Kiwi wool growers - PAGE 2

Timaru Mills eye North Island - PAGE 2

“As we successfully complete more luxury projects we are finding we are getting repeat customers and word of mouth is spreading our reputation,” says Ship Repair NZ project manager Nick Eilering. “In fact last year around 70% of our business was from repeat clients.”

Story page 38

Taking NZ clams to the world - PAGE 3

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NEWS »

Business North

Industry optimistic as cross-bred prices hold up Hugh de Lacy Half a century of relentlessly declining prices for coarse cross-bred wools – the sort used in carpets, and the mainstay of the New Zealand industry – appears finally to have bottomed out in the face of increasing demand from garment and furnishing manufacturers.

When coarse crossbred wool hit a 21-year high in 2011, it triggered cautious optimism that the industry had at last turned a corner and was taking back some of the market share it surrendered to oil-based synthetic fibres after World War Two. That optimism has been reinforced since by the commodity’s ability to stay at or above the $5/kilogram mark, despite the plummeting price of oil and wild fluctuations in both the New Zealand and American currencies.

Towards the end of the long decline in prices last century it became apparent that dominance of the processing and manufacturing elements of the global wool industry had shifted from Britain to China, and Chinese diversification of endproducts has increased the demand for coarse crossbred wools.

Where last century the producers of by far the bulk of New Zealand’s wool had only the

“Nepal is starting to make shawls out of coarser wool now, and it’s these incremental movements of medium-micron crossbreds away from the carpet market that has really helped the price.” carpet industry to supply, “more and more coarse crossbred wool is going into fabrics and upholstery,” the New Zealand CEO of international wool trader Segard Masurel, Peter Whiteman said.

“It’s not the very coarse stuff – the 38-39 micron – but the wool in the 32 to 25 micron range which is going in to coarse fabrics like women’s coats, and upholstery.”

Whiteman said there was a range of reasons why crossbred wool was holding up, not the least being falling production following the more than halving of the New Zealand flock from over 70m in the early 1980’s to under 30m today.

“But for me it’s the move away from reliance on carpet that’s the key.

“It’s not that the carpet market’s not important, but when the only place you can sell your wool is into the carpet market, you quickly

Timaru grain growers hit North Island market Chris Hutching Timaru-based Farmers Mill is establishing a North Island distribution centre to supply Couplands in Auckland.

The distribution warehouse is at 761 Great South Road Penrose and is owned by James Kirkpatrick Group, an industrial developer in Auckland.

Farmers Mill is an independent grower-owned and operated flour producer.

It is owned by 12 South Island farmers including some of New Zealand’s most successful agribusiness entrepreneurs such as Rich Lister Murray Turley, one of the biggest shareholders in Dairy Holdings, as well as a major grain producer.

Another is Leighton Pye, son of Rich Lister Alan Pye. Other shareholders include Peter Callaghan.

Alan Wilson, Raymond Bowan, Gerard Scott; members of the Howey family, Slater Farms, Pentlow Farms, Brian Stratford, and Farm2Flour.

The North Island distribution centre will enable Farmers Mill to offer its products to bakery and ingredient customers there as well as Couplands Bakeries nationally, having won a national tender to supply them.

Farmer’s Mill chief executive, Grant Bunting, said the company - which had had been “buoyed by its recent foray into South East Asia with support from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise” - had also secured funding from stand-alone crown entity, Callaghan Innovation, to continue its product development programme “exploring high-protein and low GI products using specific, New Zealand grown grains”.

This will see a continuation of its innovation into nutrition focussed flour and baking products, having been the first New Zealand-owned flour producer to receive initial funding from the Agricultural and Marketing Research and Development Trust (AGMARDT).

Bunting says the company’s growth in to the North Island, coupled with its work in the scientific development area, represents a win for New Zealand as a whole.

“It’s a sound use of Government money to be investing in and supporting companies like ours which are New Zealand owned, with a strong economic footprint.”

“It’s a sound use of Government money to be investing in and supporting companies like ours which are New Zealand owned, with a strong economic footprint.”

The expansion is facilitated by grant from Callaghan Innovation and the Agricultural and Marketing Research and Development Trust.

AGMARDT is a charitable Trust set up by the government in 1987 with initial funding of $32 million from the wind up of the British, Christmas Island and New Zealand Phosphate Commissions to “encourage innovative ideas and develop future leaders within the agribusiness sectors”.

AGMARDT provided $80,000.

The amount provided by Callaghan Innovation has not been revealed, although a public relations intermediary described it as “hundreds of thousands”.

The new, high value nutritional products should be ready within the next six to nine months and will add to Farmer Mil’s New Zealand made offering, he says.

“We’re excited to be working with vast resources such as Lincoln University, the Food Innovation Network and the Foundation for Arable Research to analyse what refinements and improvements can be made to our milled range of grains to produce health driven products,” says Bunting.

Last year Farmers Mill launched a range of flour based products and premixes and announced the company’s strategic relationship with French multinational yeast supplier, Lesaffre.

reach a threshold where the market’s satisfied, and that’s when the price collapses.”

End-product diversification by Asian manufacturers, and the Chinese in particular, are reducing that dependence, Whiteman said.

“For example Nepal is starting to make shawls out of coarser wool now, and it’s these incremental movements of medium-micron crossbreds away from the carpet market that has really helped the price,” Whiteman said.

He emphasised that the same can’t be said for merino finewool, which is used in high-end garment manufacture and comprises about 5% of New Zealand production.

“The merino market over the last couple of years has really dropped dramatically, and that’s principally the result of the formal-wear market, the number of suits being sold, imploding,” Whiteman said.

Auck industrial property also

doing well Chris Hutching For the first time in more than 20 years average yields for top industrial properties have firmed below 7% percent. Industrial sector investor confidence has soared.

A Colliers survey says a net positive (optimists minus pessimists) 74% of respondents were confident in Auckland’s industrial market performance over the next 12 months, the best since the Colliers survey started in 2006.

Wellington was also the highest it’s been at 16% and Christchurch remains high at 57%.

Colliers researcher Chris Dibble says the state of the economy is the reason.

“The Auckland economy is buoyed by residential growth, Wellington’s growth and Christchurch’s earthquake rebuild. Vacancy rates are at an all time low in Auckland and a five-year low for Wellington and Christchurch.”

“Interest rates are low and early indications in 2015 suggest they are likely to be lower for longer.

“They are lower than in previous cycles, enabling investors to bid higher while achieving similar margins over debt costs to those experienced in early 2000 and early 2003. “ The extraordinary decline in fuel prices over the end of 2014 and early 2015 is also a factor in the transport and storage sector.

This has the potential to reduce some pressure on slim margins for 2015, boosting bottom line results of tenants, Mr Dibble says.

The cumulative growth in Auckland’s industrial related building consents by floor area outweighs other main regions. It is more than Waikato, Wellington and Canterbury combined with more than 6.3 million square metres of space consented since Statistics New Zealand records began in early 1991.

The second largest region for industrial related building consents by floor area is Canterbury, which has had a recent uplift in building consents due to the Canterbury Earthquake.

Business North

NEWS »

February 2015

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New packaging shows potential Jo Bailey Southern Clams is harnessing a high-tech packaging system for a new convenience product line it has just released to the market.

Director, Roger Belton says the Dunedin firm’s use of Modified Atmosphere Packing (MAP) is enabling it to extend the shelf life and taste quality of its fresh clams and mussels by enhancing the oxygen level inside the packet.

“The technology is usually used for dead products, such as pasta, meats and processed products,” says Belton.

“However in our case, we’ve been able to extend the shelf life of our fresh shellfish to 12 days. The sealed, pre-packed units are also conveniently bar-coded which is good for retail.”

Southern Clams is working with a Christchurch packaging company on the range, which has already used the technology to package fresh mussels and oysters.

Belton says the company has completed six weeks of trials in the New Zealand market, with good uptake from high-end supermarkets.

Small trial shipments are also being sent to the east coast of the US, China and other Asian markets.

“We don’t expect this range to displace the existing demand for loose product,” he says.

“This new product is targeting the convenience factor in terms of handling and shelf life, particularly in markets where there are issues with time.”

In the 30 years since Southern Clams was established by Belton, the company has handharvested New Zealand littleneck clams from carefully managed wild stocks on the Otago coastline.

Over the years it has extended its product range to include Queen Scallops, crab and numerous southern fish species, although clams remain the cornerstone of the business.

Around 80 percent of its production is exported by Southern Rainbow, the company’s export arm, which was set up in Christchurch in 1996 to manage orders, freight and documentation for the off-shore business.

These markets have been well-established in North America and Europe for some time.

In recent years Southern Rainbow has successfully grown its reach into Asian markets including Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia.

Dunedin firm Southern Clams hand-harvests New Zealand littleneck clams from carefully managed wild stocks on the Otago coastline.

Around 30 people are employed by the company across its two operations, including clam harvesters. Other seafood species are supplied by fishers under contract.

The high New Zealand dollar hasn’t made it easy for the Company in recent years, although Belton says things are looking positive with a better exchange rate and encouraging signs from some potential new export markets.

“In the scheme of things we are quite small suppliers, but after a few decades we’ve built a solid reputation and profile in several markets.”

In the local market, Southern Clams’ products are available in New World and Pak ’N Save Supermarkets, from national wholesalers, and in restaurants.

Negotiating the payroll minefield Payroll systems are a vital component of any business but it can often be a minefield for

businesses to identify the best solution to suit their particular needs.

Patrick Hegarty, sales and marketing manager for IMS Payroll, says that the number of options in the marketplace for payroll solutions is growing exponentially but there are some simple rules, which a company can apply to ensure they choose the right solution to meet their needs.

Firstly he advises avoiding suppliers that have just entered the market and choosing a specialist provider. “Payroll is too important to be treated as a module of your accounting software for example.

It can potentially cost a business a lot of time and money if they don’t get their payroll solution right.

“Problems that can occur can include paying incorrectly, which can also result in tax implications. That’s why a payroll solution should be a dedicated solution, which will meet the needs of the particular business and it should be backed up with reliable support from a company who has been around for a long time,” he says.

Hegarty says the system should be flexible and configurable as every business is not identical.

Things such as integration with time clock/roster systems and financial systems are important to offer a seamless solution.

He says that’s why IMS Payroll offers integration with most accounting and time and attendance systems available in New Zealand.

“Another part of having a flexible configurable solution is being able to turn on and off required functionality to customise the solution to suit the particular requirements of the business.

“A business should choose a payroll solution that offers more functionality than the business currently needs to allow for future growth,” says Hegarty.

“Selecting software solutions that can grow with the business means less disruption and saves time and money as staff will not need to be retrained in a new solution further down the track,” he says.

The next step is considering whether to choose a desktop or cloud based system.

Hegarty advises choosing a solution which offers both.

“This allows a business to move freely between the two environments so that payroll can be done anywhere, anytime from the device of choice.

“The solution should offer backup and provide data security.

“If a cloud only environment is selected this is particularly important and the business should make sure that data can be accessed should the business ever cease with the service.”

“We’ve been able to extend the shelf life of our fresh shellfish to 12 days. The sealed, pre-packed units are also conveniently bar-coded which is good for retail.”

Sustainability is a big focus, with a bio-mass survey of the company’s largest harvest area in Blueskin Bay in 2012 showing a bio-mass slightly bigger than when the company started harvesting 30 years ago.

“It’s gratifying we’ve been able to honour our undertaking to ensure the fishery is sustainable,” says Belton.

Belton has recently spent time in North

America and Europe visiting clients and attending Trade Shows where he is always on the lookout for prospective buyers, new trends and technology.

“In the medium-term we are looking at shucking systems to take the meat out of older clams we can’t sell as live product, but which could be sold for on-processing into other products such as chowder.”

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MILLWATER DEVELOPMENT »

February 2015 Business North

Millwater set for further growth Karen Phelps Preparations are underway for the next stage of the Millwater development. But Aucklanders desperate to find land on which to build a house should not get too excited just yet.

Millwater marketing manager Warren Frogley says that sections at Arran Point will not be offered to the market until late 2016.

“It will take most of this year to complete the ground work before the roading and services will commence,” he says.

The company is also developing land in Bonair located at the Silverdale entrance to Millwater.

Athough some sections have already been sold the majority of this stage of Millwater has yet to be developed.

“Bonair has some of the biggest section sizes on offer in the development and is just a short walk to the many local shops, schools and the Silverdale Retail Centre. We are expecting them to sell fast,” says Frogley.

The Millwater project between Silverdale and Orewa will eventually include over 3000 properties to be built over 10 years.

The development will include a mixture of low, medium and high-density homes with around 10,000 residents.

Between 700 and 800 people are already living in the suburb with the Wainui Rd/State Highway 1 interchange due to be completed in late April.

Around 1100 sections in the greater Millwater development have already been sold with a further 350 to go online this year.

Frogley says demand has been high.

“It’s much the same as any development in Auckland at the moment - there’s a greater demand than there is supply and we can’t release the land fast enough.

“Typically sections sell before they’ve even officially been released, as there are a lot of builders we work directly with, from single spec to production building companies.

“A smaller percentage of sections are sold directly to the public,” he says.

Millwater is located in a park like setting with cycle ways and extensive sea views.

Frogley cites the fact that the development has easy motorway access to Auckland City and is close to Orewa Beach and the surrounding coastline as well as being near to a large range of facilities as major factors driving demand.

Near to Millwater are Southern Cross

Millwater is located in a park-like setting with numerous cycle ways and walks and extensive sea views, such as this this stunning view at Arran Point.

Hospital, Northern Arena swimming centre and gymnasium, Snow Planet artificial ski field, Action Raceway indoor go-karts, two kindergartens, three primary and three secondary schools and Silverdale Retail Centre including The Warehouse and Countdown.

Millwater Developments has also been working closely with the developers of the Millwater Central shopping centre, which will be the only convenience retail centre servicing the development, which is due to open this month.

Sited on the corner of Millwater Parkway and Bankside Road by Broadway Developments, the retail centre will have 12 retail shops, 11 commercial premises and 119 carparks.

Included within the complex is the Millwater residential showroom.

“Millwater is right in the middle of an existing community rather than something that has been put in the middle of nowhere,” says Frogley.

“People buying in Millwater know that a certain quality will be consistently adhered to. Millwater Developments had a lot of existing relationships with builders that we had worked with before.”

“All the amenities are right there. Millwater has also attracted businesses and facilities to the area.”

Millwater includes extensive opportunities for residents to get close to nature with a walkway/cycleway from Millwater to Orewa, sportsgrounds incorporating sports fields, hard courts, athletic track, skate park, 12 beaches, three golf courses and numerous parks, walks, reserves and children’s playgrounds scattered throughout the development.

Frogley says the recreational opportunities

were an important consideration as people on the Hibiscus Coast love to take advantage of the outdoors.

Millwater development involves a number of companies with Millwater Developments responsible for administration, sales and site management, backed by WFH Properties, a joint venture between William Francis and Fulton Hogan.

Millwater was established in 2005 after WFH had purchased land from farmers over several years.

The Millwater development, between Silverdale and Orewa, will eventually include over 3000 properties to be built over 10 years. It has easy motorway access to Auckland City and is close to Orewa Beach.

Business North

February 2015

MILLWATER DEVELOPMENT »

Millwater Developments ensures that the quality of homes built are of a high standard.

Four years were spent planning, surveying, rezoning and carrying out an historical study of the area.

Millwater will consist of five communities, named after the original farms – Bonair, Ridgedale, Arran Hills, Arran Point and Seaview.

House and land packages are available in Bonair and Ridgedale. House and land packages and spec homes are available in Seaview.

Approved companies to build in the development are Highmark Homes, Mike Greer Homes, Sensation Developments, Maddren, Horncastle Homes, G.J Gardner Homes, Stonewood Homes, Platinum Homes, Millwater Homes, The House Company, Universal Homes, Generation Developments, Sicato Residential, Sentinel Homes and Millstone Residential.

Design-and-build options or completed homes are available.

Frogley says Millwater Developments ensures the quality of homes built are of a uniformly high standard.

“Design guidelines and covenants ensure certain standards are followed.

“All plans have to be submitted to Millwater Developments before they can go to council for approval.

“People buying in Millwater like that because then they know that a certain quality will be consistently adhered to.

“Millwater Developments had a lot of existing

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relationships with builders we had worked with before.

“They know how we work and we’ve been very selective in terms of who we have chosen to work with.

“Builders want to be in there because it’s hard to find land on the North Shore.”

While Frogley says that there are overall guidelines one of the main focuses has been to create a diverse development.

“If there is an overriding rule it’s that there is a variety of textures and designs in Millwater so there are not streets lined with houses that all look the same.”

Another key difference has been the strong sense of community that has developed in the project.

“Everyone living in Millwater knows their neighbours.

“It’s a welcoming feeling and a close knit community.

“For example there’s a big central park in the middle and residents recently had a picnic and there were hundreds of people with barbeques and tents.

“At Millwater everyone looks out for each other.

“It’s a great vibe and as far as places to live go you couldn’t find better.”

For more information call 0800 MILLWATER or visit www.millwater.co.nz

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MILLWATER DEVELOPMENT » Mike Greer Homes

February 2015 Business North

Firm making impact in North Island Karen Phelps Mike Greer Homes’ share of the Auckland market is increasing exponentially as the company becomes known in the North Island.

A long-established brand in the South Island, Mike Greer Homes started a branch in Auckland two years ago due to the opportunities presented by the market, says director of Mike Greer Homes Auckland, Sean Connolly.

“We have had steady interest but we are really starting to see this increase as we become more well known in the Auckland market. Auckland is a competitive market to enter but it’s a growth market,” says Connolly.

“There is a huge shortage of housing in Auckland and we saw a real need for the range of housing we offer from affordable to higher end.”

The company has been working primarily in Millwater as one of the development’s approved builders.

It was the company’s relationship with Fulton Hogan in the South Island that led to its involvement in Millwater.

Mike Greer Homes Auckland has now completed around 40 homes in the development with 15-20 homes currently under construction and a further 10 going through the consent process.

Connolly says the company’s product has been a good fit for the development with a range of buyers including families, young professionals and retirees. He cites factors such as good schools, the beach and proximity to Auckland as key drivers for buyers.

He says that the company’s key point of difference has been its focus on offering house and land packages.

Buyers need to pay a 10% deposit and the rest on handover rather than the typical progress payments.

Connolly says this has given customers and banks greater security making the process of home building and finance easier.

“It’s not only beneficial for customers but it also allows us to deliver stock into a market that needs it quickly,” he says.

Mike Greer Homes Auckland has now completed around 40 homes in the Millwater development.

Mike Greer Homes was started over two decades ago in Christchurch and is still owned by the founding director.

Connolly says that leadership is very much driven from Mike Greer’s “hands-on” approach to business.

With head office in Christchurch and branches in Auckland, North Canterbury, Wanaka and the West Coast, Connolly says that Mike Greer Homes is now the largest residential building company in New Zealand.

“There has been steady growth across all of our businesses nationally.

“Being privately owned and not a franchise is a point of difference.

Ph: 09 836 5311

www.geoconsult.co.nz

info@geoconsult.co.nz

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Business North

February 2015

MILLWATER DEVELOPMENT » Mike Greer Homes

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In Millwater Mike Greer Homes Auckland is offering a range of single level homes from entry level through to high end product.

“It gives consistency and control of our product and gives our customers security.”

In Millwater Mike Greer Homes Auckland is offering a range of single level homes from entry level through to high end product.

The company will also offer two to three level townhouses with a choice of two or three bedrooms.

Connolly says the townhouses will appeal to first homebuyers as well as retirees looking to downsize while still maintaining quality of lifestyle.

The company is also constructing a home in Millwater as a fundraiser for Cure Kids.

The 200sqm four-bedroom home will feature cedar cladding and decking with a double garage.

The interior raked ceilings in the kitchen and living areas will be one of the many features.

“It’s about giving something back. The home will be auctioned and all of the profits given to the organisation.”

Connolly says this year the company will focus on further growth with Auckland remaining a key market.

Mike Greer Homes Auckland also offers design and build and has been busy building in the south and west of Auckland.

The company has just established a prefabrication factory in Christchurch and Connolly says there are plans to build a factory in Auckland in the next 18 months.

“It’s about improving the quality of homes we construct and having total control over the process.

“We will definitely be focusing on growing opportunities within the Auckland market this year as the demand is certainly there.”

HFC - focused expertise HFC Group offers clients full foundation and structural design solutions for a wide range of structures.

In 2014 HFC Group completed over 2000 residential jobs across New Zealand varying in scale from stand-alone foundation/ structural jobs to large terraced and apartment developments.

“No matter the building type or complexity our expertise in design throughout New Zealand gives us a broad knowledge base on which to draw,” explains HFC Foundations team leader Robert Clarry.

HFC Foundations provides structural engineering design services to architects, developers and construction companies on a diverse range of residential projects from stand-alone houses up to buildings of three storeys.

“The projects HFC Group is involved in can range from high-end architectural houses with their inherent structural complexities to group housing work carried out with tight timeframe and budgets.

“Projects can vary considerably in complexity and require smart engineering to be economically viable and practical to build,” explains Clarry.

HFC Foundations offers focused expertise in a wide range of foundation solutions including the Allied Super Slab, which the company was instrumental in developing.

Allied Super Slab is an above ground engineered flooring system, known as a raft foundation.

Clarry says that it delivers real benefits over conventional floors and foundations including faster installation, minimal excavation, low soil-bearing capabilities and thermal insulation.

Although HFC Foundations completes work throughout New Zealand the majority of projects undertaken by the company are in Auckland and Christchurch.

Major clients include Allied Concrete, Mike Greer Homes, The House Company and Horncastle Homes. Projects completed by the company include numerous houses in Millwater, Hobsonville Village and throughout the Auckland region.

SMART STRUCTURAL SOLUTIONS We provide structural engineering design services to architects, developers and construction companies on a diverse range of residential, commercial and community based building projects throughout New Zealand. Talk to us today about your next building project.

More recently HFC Foundations has developed raft floor solutions for the Christchurch region suitable for use on TC1, TC2 and TC3 sites in conjunction with MBIE and Christchurch City Council.

“No matter what the project we take a collaborative approach to solving our clients’ structural design challenges endeavouring to create economical and efficient structural solutions, which are robust for their design use,” says Clarry.

“It is always a balancing act. However our focus remains on efficiently designed and smartly engineered structural solutions which are practical to build” HFC Foundations: Auckland Level 3, 19 Morgan Street, Newmarket, 09 367 1070. Christchurch: Unit 4, 295 Blenheim Road, Upper Riccarton, 03 339 7000. For more information visit www.hfc.co.nz

PH: 09 367 1070 | www.hfc.co.nz

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MILLWATER DEVELOPMENT » Sensation Developments

February 2015 Business North

Company creates a true sensation Karen Phelps Sensation Developments Limited sales and marketing manager Janine Robinson once completed school cross-country runs over the land, which the company is now building on.

She says working in the Millwater subdivision is “like coming back home”.

“There were a lot of baches back then when I lived here and there were only about ten full time residents on our street. I can really closely relate to the development here at Millwater as it is steeped in history with street names such as Fennell Crescent, named after a family of local farmers and Stoney Butler Crecent named after the original land owners,” she says.

Sensation Developments opened its first display home in Millwater in 2009 after Millwater developers WFH invited the company into the subdivision. The company had been working with WFH for over fifteen years prior in their Dannemora and Mission Heights subdivisions in Auckland and has developed a strong working relationship, says Robinson.

Sensation Developments is now one of the largest residential building suppliers in the Millwater area and homes that the company has built can be seen all over the Millwater development.

Over the past twenty years the Sensation Developments team has been focusing on designing quality residential new housing in the greater Auckland area.

Today the company specialises in turnkey residential housing exclusively within the Millwater subdivision to service the needs of clients requiring a complete package home.

Robinson says that one distinct advantage of a home that is essentially ready to move into is that this removes the hassle of extended build times or renting and furniture storage costs as the new home is getting built.

“By the time our packages are advertised they are ready to start construction or are already under construction with a 14-week build time.

“This means that there is no need for customers to wait around for plans to be drawn or submitted to council and really speeds up the build process,” explains Robinson.

All homes are custom designed to suit the

Central. Supplying quality products for quality homes.

“By the time our packages are advertised they are ready to start construction or are already under construction with a 14-week build time.” particular site by the Sensation Developments design and draughting team.

“The custom drawing and detailing of each home ensures the best potential use of the section for sun, use of living spaces and flow to outdoor entertaining areas, making for better environmental and living spaces.

“The build of each of our homes is personally overseen by us with assistance from our design team and trade staff.

Construction is carried out under the management of a Licensed Building Practitioner and each home comes with a 10-Year Master Build Guarantee,” explains Robinson.

As testament to the company’s strong relationships with satisfied customers Sensation

Developments has a history of clients sometimes buying two or three homes from them through different subdivision stages, says Robinson.

In Millwater the company has just had its first clients purchasing a second home from Sensation Developments as an investment.

Robinson says that Sensation Developments has established a sound reputation within Millwater as a supplier of high specification quality homes with a distinct design flair.

“Our homes stand out as they are uniquely designed to stand out from the rest.”

Sensation Developments display home 22 Bankside Road, Millwater, 0800 99 00 75, www. sensationdevelopments.co.nz

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Business North

February 2015

MILLWATER DEVELOPMENT 禄 Sensation Developments

|9

All homes are custom designed to suit the particular site by the Sensation Developments design and draughting team and each home comes with a 10-Year Master Build Guarantee.

soft landing and safety net systems

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10 |

MILLWATER DEVELOPMENT » Highmark Homes Rodney

February 2015 Business North

Highmark impressed with Millwater Karen Phelps Highmark Homes Rodney has had a long association with the Millwater subdivision in Silverdale, Auckland.

The company has bought and developed sections in Millwater, which Highmark Homes Rodney director Phil Curson says is the best subdivision that the company has ever built in.

“With all the facilities that are in place in the subdivision such as fibre option ultrafast broadband, swimming centre, sports grounds and access to beaches and motorways it’s an ideal place for people from the northern part of Auckland to live,” he says.

Highmark Homes Rodney is offering house and land packages in the subdivision or design and build.

Three spec homes are under construction by the company including a 220 square metre single level four-bedroom home on a 655sqm site at Fennell Drive, which will be released to the market in January for around $1 million.

There are also two homes on Madison Terrace, which will sell for around $835,000 each, and will be completed by March.

Due to demand the company is also due to start construction of two more homes at Millwater in the New Year.

Gateway Homes Limited trading as Highmark Homes Rodney is operated by Curson and business partner Allen Lindsay.

The company has been building for 18 years constructing around 500 homes in the Auckland region.

Curson, who has a background in management, takes on the operational side of the business while Lindsay, a qualified builder, is the company building manager.

He says that by being part of Highmark Homes the company has access to better buying power as well as the ability to keep its finger on the pulse of regulatory changes affecting the industry.

“We joined The Highmark Group as licencees to be part of a professional nationwide network of builders.

“Working with Highmark Rodney is an interactive process with the purchasers involved in not only the design but selection of internal and external colours, tiles, and carpets.

“We work closely with the purchaser to achieve the home that suits their requirements as to aspect, indoor outdoor flow, internal layout and other wish list items within the budget allowance.”

Three spec homes are under construction at Millwater by Highmark Homes Rodney including a 220 square metre single level four-bedroom home on a 655sqm site at Fennell Drive.

Highmark Homes also offers a range of plans and Highmark Homes Rodney is a member of the Registered Master Builders Association.

Every home built by the company comes with a 10-year Master Build Guarantee.

Highmark Hoes Rodney offers design and build either on land owned by the company or the client’s land and largely builds in the Rodney district.

Curson says a key point is that the company prides itself on offering the personal touch.

“Our customers deal directly with the owners of the business so I guess we’re a boutique building

“Working with Highmark Rodney is an interactive process with the purchasers involved in not only the design but selection of internal and external colours, tiles, and carpets.”

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company. Decisions can be made quicker and we take tremendous pride in all our homes and our aim is to offer quality at realistic prices.”

Highmark Homes Rodney works with a small carefully selected team of builders and contractors.

As testament to the high quality levels the company achieves it has won a number of regional

gold awards in the Registered Master Builder House of the Year competition over the years.

“It’s always an interactive process with the customer. We guide them through the process until the finished product.

“We work with them to achieve their goals and that’s a key part of our success.”

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Business North February 2015

CONSTRUCTION » Mackersey Construction

| 11

Built on a steep bank the new library and information centre includes a spiral staircase which weaves between the library book shelves.

Complex college build rewarding Karen Phelps Mackersey Construction recently brought over 60 years of experience to the construction of two key projects at Iona College in Havelock North - the Blyth Performing Arts Centre and IT Information Resource Centre.

Incorporating cutting-edge design by Stevens Lawson Architects, Mackersey general manager - and one of its directors - John Bower, says the project was a good example of the company’s ability to tackle complex builds.

The Information Resource Centre contains a library, English department, IT centre and Year 13 common room.

The Blyth Performing Arts Centre, which honours a generous bequest of school old girl Margaret Blyth, which enabled the construction of the project, contains a 400-seat auditorium.

The construction of the Performing Arts Centre took approximately 12 months.

Special features included the curved ceiling to the main entrance, locally designed and manufactured light fittings and specifically engineered acoustics.

Construction of the new library and information centre, with additional classrooms and study areas for final year students, also took about a year to complete and included a spiral staircase, which forms the main attraction when entering the building as it weaves between the library book shelves.

Bower says one challenge was that the building had to be constructed on a steep bank with the various levels following the natural contour of the land. He says the project overall is a good example of the company’s focus on bringing a fresh and innovative approach.

“Our philosophy is to become part of a wider team to ensure that our client’s needs are met to the full,” he says.

“We endeavour to align ourselves to our client’s project and consultant team so that we fully understand their business requirements, ensuring the outcome of our efforts delivers a successful project.

“In doing this our aspiration is the development of a long term relationship between ourselves and our clients.”

• To page 12

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12 |

CONSTRUCTION » Mackersey Construction

February 2015 Business North

Firm a big player in the region • From page 11 Based in Hawke’s Bay, JC Mackersey Ltd was founded by John Charles Mackersey and commenced trading in 1948. John was elected National President of the New Zealand Master Builders Federation in 1961.

The company grew and expanded which eventually led to a full separation of property holdings from the construction operation in 1988.

Mackersey Development Ltd today specialises in property development and property management throughout the Hastings and Napier areas. It administers a growing multi million dollar property portfolio and Bower says that it is a good fit with Mackersey Construction undertaking the project management and construction expertise.

Headed by Bower and David Mackersey, Mackersey Construction is one of the largest construction companies in the Hawke’s Bay region, carrying out all types of work from housing to major commercial buildings throughout New Zealand.

The company is a member of Registered Master Builders, the New Zealand Green Building Council and is a Department of Building and Housing Licensed Building Practitioner.

Bower says that the company continues to grow, which has led to David Mackersey taking on the role of company chairman.

Bower’s role in the company focuses on maintaining the highest standards of workmanship as well as creating strong relationships with clients.

Recognising that a building company is only

The new Blyth Performing Arts Centre at Iona College contains a 400-seat auditorium.

as strong as its team the company places a firm focus on training apprentices.

“Mackersey Construction is committed to the continued development and professionalism of the construction industry, which is why we continue to train new apprentices and guide them with the best training for the future through the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation. Each apprentice has an individual training plan developed for them to gain the correct skills needed in the construction industry today,” explains Bower.

The company has a dedicated apprenticeship mentor who reviews the apprentices through the entire process and helps apprentices to achieve

their goals. Each year some of the company’s apprentices are involved in the Apprentice Of The Year awards.

“This helps them to develop the extra skills such as communication and work ethics to achieve their future dreams in the construction industry.

“Each year we have had at least one apprentice in the top three of the Hawke’s Bay regional finals and in 2009 one of our staff Nathan Biggs won the overall New Zealand Apprentice of the year.”

Bower says that although the company has grown over the years Mackersey Construction still has the feeling of being a family operated

business, which allows customers to feel part of the Mackersey team.

“Our clients are often comforted by the collective knowledge of our employees that add up to hundreds of year’s experience. Our family based structure ensures that this knowledge and experience is shared throughout the company and eventually leads to the benefit of our customers.

“We are extremely proud to be one of the leaders in the construction industry in the Hawke’s Bay. The aim is to keep the company as a front runner in the building industry as well as to strive to assist our clients to achieve their personal goals.”

Proud to be associated with Mackersey Construction on the Blyth Performing Arts Centre at Iona College

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Email: admin@latteycivil.co.nz Phone: (06) 879 8364; International: +64 6 879 8364 Fax: (06) 879 8360; International: +64 6 879 8360

CONSTRUCTION » Mackersey Construction

Business North February 2015

| 13

Mackersey Construction carries out all types of work from housing to major commercial buildings throughout New Zealand.

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1101 Kaiapo Road Hastings • E-mail: mcl@mackersey.co.nz • mackerseyconstruction.co.nz

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CONSTRUCTION » Concretec NZ

February 2015 Business North

Growth drives need for new facility Karen Phelps As it celebrates 10 years in business Concretec New Zealand Limited is building a purpose built precast concrete factory and offices in the Bombay Hills, which will see the company effectively double its staff numbers and production levels, says one of the company directors Justin Bragg.

“As the market has picked up again after the global financial crisis we have pushed for growth to satisfy the demand that we could see was going to be coming from key customers,” says Bragg.

“So around 18 months ago we started looking for a site to develop a purpose-built operation,” he says.

The 4ha site on Ridge Road in South Auckland will house a new purpose-built precast concrete factory with attached offices and staff facilities.

With a planned completion date of July this year for this initial development, a second factory will be built alongside the first one commencing in mid-2015.

The company will continue to lease its present premises in Mangere at Airport Oaks with an eye to eventually consolidating both operations at Ridge Road.

But even though it isn’t yet completed the Ridge Road facility has been operational for the past year and currently employs 20 staff on the site. The site was levelled and the manufacturing bed and cranes put down to enable operation to begin immediately while the factory was constructed around it.

Building the factory at the same time as manufacturing product has been a bit of a challenge but careful management and attention to safety has been key, says Bragg.

The company employs a full-time health and safety person.

Concretec New Zealand Limited manufactures a wide range of structural and architectural concrete elements for build structures including

Concretec New Zealand manufactures a wide range of structural and architectural concrete elements for buildings.

panels, beams, balconies, bleachers, piles, stairs and columns and underground environmental structures.

The company was started by Bragg and other company director Stefan Young ten years ago.

BAYPAK DISTRIBUTING LTD

• To page 16 Suppliers of:

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Roadex Logistics specialises in: • HI-AB Transport services throughout the greater Auckland, Northland and Bay of Plenty regions.

• Over-Dimensional Transport services • Transport of Steel and Heavy Engineering structures • Container and Small building Transport services • Transport of Concrete, Timber and General Construction materials

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Business North February 2015

CONSTRUCTION » Concretec NZ

Concretec New Zealand Limited is building a purpose-built precast concrete factory and offices in the Bombay Hills, which is set to open in June.

Merger of premises has lots of benefits Steel & Tube’s Auckland-based wire processing and reinforcing facilities are set to begin operating under one roof when they move, along with S&T’s rural supplies, to new purpose-built premises at 113 Savill Drive, Otahuhu.

S&T’s Auckland manager for reinforcing and northern wire processing, Peter Anderson, says: “Merging our operations will enhance our processing capability, which means we can better service the North Island’s expanding building and construction needs.”

New machinery currently being installed at the new site will see the company operating at the forefront of New Zealand’s steel industry and enable S&T to offer a 10mm mesh product, an expansion of the service currently provided out of S&T’s Christchurch-based facilities.

“Our ability to supply the product locally is good news for customers because it will streamline delivery and offer more options for those looking to increase their orders,” says Anderson.

The service is further evidence of S&T’s continued focus on innovative supply solutions. In 2013 it took delivery of a purpose-built fusion-welding machine to supply customised reinforcing to Auckland’s Waterview Connection project.

The machine, which can produce straight

or curved mesh product up to 16mm in diameter, is also suited to producing ground anchors for retaining walls.

S&T is one of the largest suppliers of fabricated reinforcing steel meshes, bars, ties, piles, beams and columns. Its products are used in residential, commercial and infrastructure projects in towns, cities and communities across New Zealand.

A supplier of cut-and-bend reinforcing to Concretec, preferred suppliers of pre-cast concrete products, S&T is 100% New Zealand-owned and rated among the country’s top 50 companies on the New Zealand Stock Exchange.

It has manufacturing reinforcing facilities in Auckland and Christchurch and a total of 48 service centres nationwide. “We are available locally and nationally, providing products and expertise you can rely on,” says Anderson.

Last year S&T celebrated 60 years in business. “That kind of longevity doesn’t happen by accident,” says Anderson.

“It’s evidence of our capacity to form longlasting partnerships with our customers, respond to changing market needs, and deliver unequalled quality and service.”

For more information visit www. steelandtube.co.nz or for assistance telephone 0800 478 335

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16 |

CONSTRUCTION » Concretec NZ

February 2015 Business North

Concretec’s site on Ridge Road in South Auckland will house a new purpose-built precast concrete factory with attached offices and staff facilities.

Growth drives need for new facility • From page 14 Both engineers, Bragg and Young were working in the construction industry and saw an opportunity for another player to enter the market.

In 2005 when the pair started the company they were in the middle of a construction boom.

Recognising that the industry moved in waves the pair focused on service and product quality to establish a sound reputation in the marketplace, which would see them through quieter times.

Now the pair are anticipating a surge in demand as the building boom in the Auckland region takes off. Key customers range from large construction companies to individual builders.

“The new premises will allow us to expand our customer base and allow for faster turnaround on projects if required,” says Bragg.

“It will enable us to produce even higher quality products in a more controlled environment as well

as consolidate the operation onto one site, which will bring efficiencies.

“The design of the new premises has been carefully undertaken with these factors in mind.

For example the office and factory will be closely integrated for improved communication between everyone on site,” he says.

Bragg says one impetus for the pair in starting their business was the efficiencies, quality and service they felt they could bring to the industry.

As the company grows a key challenge will be to maintain the benefits of the flat management structure that has been successful to date,.

He says. Promoting long-term employee James Rooney to general manager and growing his stake, as a shareholder will continue the company’s philosophy of hands on management.

“We all bring different skills to the business – Stefan has come from an operations background,

Holcim

I come from a structural engineering and manufacturing background and James from a financial background,” says Bragg.

“All three of us are involved in the operation in a hands on way. This won’t change as we grow as it helps us to maintain a small business culture which we believe is a superior business model.”

Major projects Concretec has been involved with in Auckland include ASB headquarters in Wynyard Quarter, Eden Park, Mt Eden Prison, Middlemore and Northshore hospital expansions, two apartment buildings at Stonefields and three major dairy factories in the Waikato.

Current projects include the new Fonterra head office and other large office buildings in Wynyard Quarter, University of Auckland Science Block, Queens Residence 28 storey apartment block in the central city, Lynmall Shopping Centre and DNZ Westgate.

MESH & REBAR SUPPLY CUT BEND INSTALL Mike Fox 021 669 084

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The Holcim Concrete team congratulate their colleagues at Concretec on the opening of their superb new manufacturing facility.

A member of the HWR family of companies Phone: 0800 732 398 (0800 READYMIX)

Ph: 09 296 6346 | E: greg@deansteel.co.nz

Business North February 2015

CONSTRUCTION » Kalmar Construction

| 17

Careful planning brings top result Karen Phelps Constructing a 110-apartment high-rise over 10 levels on top of a car park and operational medical centre and on a site constrained on three sides by other developments required high levels of organisation and planning, says Kalmar Construction project manager Nathan Halloran.

Merchant Quarter Condominiums in New Lynn, Auckland, comprises studios, and one- and twobedroom apartments.

Kalmar Construction had worked for client Tasman Cook previously on a number of projects so Merchant Quarter was a negotiated contract between the two companies.

The project commenced in late 2013 and was completed by July 2014. The main tower of the building was constructed from structural steel and clad with a mix of precast concrete and aluminium composite panels.

Halloran says that time and site constraints necessitated a change from the traditional build method as materials had to be lifted onto site at precisely the correct time with zero tolerance for errors.

“Materials had to be all ready to go as we didn’t have any space on the site so we didn’t have the luxury of being able to alter things on site that might arrive and have slight structural imperfections,” he explains.

Noise was another issue. New Lynn had already been through a number of years of development, which had seen local retailers inconvenienced.

Halloran says that therefore when Kalmar Construction went to the local business round table with the plans for the build of Merchant Quarter it was obvious intensive liaison with local industry would be a key aspect of achieving a successful outcome for all parties.

A number of solutions were developed including timing the build programme around the activities of some local businesses such as the medical centre so noise did not disrupt normal business activities.

“One of the first steps we took was to get local businesses on board so they knew exactly how we planned to approach the construction.

“We sometimes worked at night to avoid inconvenience. Car parking was also brought up as a potential issue with over 250 contractors on site at the peak of the project.

“We addressed this concern by ensuring subcontractors understood the issue and didn’t park in public spaces. Other solutions were carpooling and firms hiring minivans to bring subcontractors to site,” says Halloran.

Kalmar Construction also approached the actual build differently to contain noise on the site as early as possible: “The precast panels and double glazed windows were installed quickly.

This provided a noise buffer so we could work inside the structure.”

The Merchant Quarter Condominiums in New Lynn, Auckland, comprises studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments.

Halloran says that Kalmar Construction aims to operate as an environmentally aware company, recognising the importance of ongoing sustainability and care for the environment.

“Environmental management is a key component of our quality management system and we take a sustainable approach to everything we do – always complying with legal requirements and best practice.

“In addition to training staff in environmental management, we demand environmental best practice from all our subcontractors and wherever possible minimise waste through reuse and recycling,” he says.

On Merchant Quarter this involved planning sustainability into the design including low flow showerheads and a gas system for the entire apartment block which provided considerable energy savings compared with individual gas systems for each apartment. The building precast façade was designed with thermal bridging in mind and the windows were double glazed.

During the construction the company separated waste where possible for recycling to minimise waste sent to landfill.

Established in 2001 Kalmar Construction is a New Zealand owned company with directors Peter Kay and Bert Denee involved on every project.

Kalmar Construction works across the commercial, industrial, civic, residential and design build sectors and offers a complete service from first consultation to final opening. It presently has in excess of $120m of work under construction including Stage 1 of the SugarTree apartment development in Nelson Street.

Concretec New Zealand Ltd is a supplier of a wide range of precast concrete products.

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Ph: 09 275 9906

“In addition to training staff in environmental management, we demand environmental best practice from all our subcontractors and wherever possible minimise waste...”

Phone: +64 9 818 6839 Email: dalma@xtra.co.nz Dalma International have been manufacturing and installing kitchens, bathrooms and other cabinetry fittings for over thirty years. Our expertise is showcased in the many projects we been involved with in the Apartment and Hotel arena, both nationally and in the South Pacific. We are proud to be working alongside Kalmar Construction on many of their projects.

“Our expert team working on a project can include consultants, engineers, builders, carpenters and interior designers.

“It is the integrated approach that differentiates Kalmar from our competitors.

“Our strength is design and build projects such as Merchant Quarter.

“We’ve got a huge depth of experience in this area and can work with all parties to achieve the best outcome for the client.”

www.concretec.co.nz

18 |

BUILDING » PSL Construction

February 2015 Business North

Another win for Phil and his team Karen Phelps As a child Phil Leach says that he knew two things - that he wanted to be a builder and that he wanted to be the best at what he did.

So it’s no surprise now that his company PSL Construction has won numerous times at the Master Builder House of the Year Awards.

The company has been winning since it first entered in 2009 clocking up a total of 12 awards including a national gold award in the new homes over $2 million category at the 2014 competition for a high-end beach home as well as a national supreme award – the third time the company had won this award - and the craftsmanship award.

The latter award Leach considers a real accolade as craftsmanship is a real focus for the company and only one such award is given each year.

Bossley Architects, a company that PSL Construction has teamed up with on many award-winning projects, designed the home in Waipu.

Started in October 2011 the home was completed in March 2013.

Leach says that the client’s brief concentrated on one main aspect of the build: to achieve the highest quality construction possible.

The home included many challenging features such as two large in-situ concrete fireplaces involving pouring 12 cubic metres of concrete for each one.

“We had to ensure we got everything right, as you can’t afford to muck around with concrete.

But on builds like this it’s about problem solving on a day-to-day basis,” says Leach.

“We’ve been used to building complex high end homes so it wasn’t a challenge as such but it was about getting it right as the client had warned us that he was extremely particular about quality,” he says.

Other features of the one storey home included a huge gallery running the length of the house with ramps leading to other levels.

Leach says that he was confident that his team had done a good job on the home but having won the supreme award twice before he

PSL Construction won a national supreme award for this high-end beach home.

wasn’t sure that PSL Construction could pull it off again.

“It’s about choosing the right people for the job and on this project I had the best people I knew working on the job. It was a winning team.

“I also work on the tools myself. There’s not many builders running a company of this size that are doing that.”

Leach started his company in the late 1990s and specialises in the construction and renovation of premium residential properties, servicing the greater Auckland area as well as the northern region, extending along the East Coast as far as the Bay of Islands.

“We have a passion for design and a dedication to helping our clients realise their

vision through the use of varied materials and innovative architecture. We respect that their home is personal and unique to them so while each home we create is different, our approach is always to find innovative solutions and then simply get the job done right,” says Leach.

• To page 20

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We can tailor an air conditioning system to suit any application.

We pride ourselves on consistently exceeding our customer’s expectations. Our commitment to excellence means we stand behind the work our expert team performs. Call us to discuss your next project, our friendly team is here to help.

Business North February 2015

BUILDING » PSL Construction

Bossley Architects, a company that PSL Construction has teamed up with on many award-winning projects, designed the award-winning home in Waipu.

• • • •

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| 19

20 |

BUILDING » PSL Construction

February 2015 Business North

Unique home notches PSL another win • from page 18 Leach’s dedication to building and the industry is evident in the fact that he recently moved his entire family to the Bay of Islands to undertake a 20-month project for a client.

It was the unique design of the project which attracted Leach: the home is comprised of three separate buildings or wings running parallel with the beach. “Each of the buildings are built behind each other and have gaps of around eight metres in between giving people in the buildings uninterrupted views.”

PSL Construction is a member of the Registered Master Builders Federation and is a Licensed Building Practitioner. The company offers a 10-year Master Builder’s guarantee with a range of guarantee options, which allow clients the flexibility to choose what they want covered and how much they want to be covered for.

PSL Construction employs 12 staff including builders. The aim is to have one to two projects underway at any one time although recently demand for the company’s services has made this impossible.

The award-winning one-storey home includes a huge gallery running the length of the house with ramps leading to other levels.

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Business North February 2015

BUILDING » Jalcon Homes

| 21

Hobsonville Point making progress

66 The Cancourse Henderson, Auckland, 0610

P: (09) 838 8075 l F: (09) 836 1480

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The company offers various home and land packages as well as numerous design and build options.

Jalcon Homes offers a unique 15-year weather tight warranty and is an approved partner of Lifemark.

Lifemark offers accreditation which is awarded to homes that have been well designed and are easy and safe to live in for a lifetime, and Future Proof Building.

E

“Areas like Hobsonville Point are popular because there is easy access to cafes, walks, the farmers’ markets and an ever-growing range of amenities.”

“Areas like Hobsonville Point are popular because there is easy access to cafes, walks, the farmers’ markets and an ever-growing range of amenities,” she says.

Jalcon Homes is a family owned company started by Lindsay and Julie Aitken in 1993.

Lindsay brings to the company just over a decade managing building processes, construction, finance and quantity surveying with Fletcher Residential.

6

Jalcon Homes is about to release a block of 39 homes to the market in the Hobsonville Point Development in Auckland.

The homes are part of a government scheme to deliver more affordable housing.

The latest release by Jalcon Homes will offer 12 homes priced at under $485,000 to the market.

Melanie Tracy, Jalcon Homes sales specialise for Hobsonville Point, says that the homes will be offered to buyers by ballot.

“We already have over 400 people in a database who have expressed interest. At the end of February we will send out the plans and if they like what they see they can send in their signed statutory declaration to say they meet the conditions of the scheme,” she explains.

The homes offered will be 101 square metre, single level, stand alone two bedroom homes with a single internal access garage. Jalcon Homes will also offer a series of three bedroom homes to the market which are not part of the government scheme and therefore open to all buyers.

The Hobsonville Point Development aims to be one of the country’s biggest affordable housing projects.

Of the 3000 homes to be built in the next 10 to 15 years, 300 will cost $400,000 or less and another 600 will have a price tag of between $400,000 and $485,000.

Jalcon Homes has built or has under construction nearly 70 homes in the development.

In the 2014 Registered Master Builder House of the Year Awards a three bedroom home built by the company in the Hobsonville Point Development was awarded a gold reserve award in the $350,000 - $450,000 category. Jalcon Homes also won four other awards for builds in other parts of Auckland in the awards.

Melanie Tracy says that the Hobsonville Point homes have been popular with a variety of market sectors from first home buyers to retirees from whom there is growing demand for easy to maintain, open plan homes.

“Older home buyers are looking for a change of lifestyle which often includes downsizing their living space without giving up the best of design for their home.

“Many of our recent home sales have been to this market sector and it’s largely because we provide a design-led home solution, with a range of sizes and price points, which makes Jalcon’s products perfectly suited to the growing retiree and semi-retiree home buyer market.”

She says that older buyers are typically looking for a small landscaped courtyard rather than a large lawn and garden and want indoor-outdoor flow with an easy to maintain outdoor room or entertaining area.

“Having high quality, designer bathroom and kitchen facilities is important to these buyers because they want to entertain and have friends and family around.

ESTA

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1 9 8

Proud to be supporting Jalcon Homes

22 |

BUILDING » Coresteel Buildings

February 2015 Business North

Steel buildings rising in popularity Karen Phelps The benefits of modular buildings constructed with cold-formed steel are proving popular with the New Zealand construction industry.

According to Coresteel Buildings the coldformed steel market is steadily growing across throughout the country, particularly in the commercial building industry.

Cold-formed steel is manufactured from sections that are roll formed from flat steel coils as opposed to being hot forged at the steel mill. It’s a product that has been used for a number of years in the construction industry with one of the main advantages being that it can be more cost effective than hot formed or wooden products.

Another of the key reasons that Coresteel’s products are growing in popularity in New Zealand is the company’s design and technology expertise, which means that it can deliver buildings that are strong, spacious and durable making them ideal for factories, retail outlets, showrooms and workshop areas.

Although buildings of any size can be produced, it is Coresteel’s ability to produce larger steel sections combined with its exclusive Bracketless Portal System that means that the system can support buildings of virtually any size without compromising structural integrity.

The unique Bracketless Portal System allows for the construction of portal frames using no external brackets. This is because the connections are manufactured as part of the column and rafter with the members simply bolted together to form the portal frame.

Simplicity of design makes erection quicker on site. The purlins, girts and windposts are connected using a total of six different brackets to form the entire building structure, with all connections

Coresteel can deliver buildings that are strong, spacious and durable making them ideal for factories, retail outlets, showrooms and workshop areas. standardised to limit tools changes and product requirements.

Other benefits include better raw material utilisation and improved manufacturing and transport times.

The result is a building that is designed and engineered to the highest standards, while minimising manufacturing and construction time frames.

“Proud to be associated with Hill Construction & Coresteel for Civil Works Packages”

The spacious interior free from centre poles and braces makes Coresteel structures ideal for retail spaces or for businesses that need to move large industrial sized vehicles and machinery. Importantly the end product is also an aesthetically appealing structure both inside and out.

Coresteel offers both a range of pre-engineered modular buildings as well as a full design and build service.

When an order is placed, the building structure is custom produced in New Zealand and this is combined with fasteners before being dispatched.

This eliminates stock and material handling which reduces costs and improves efficiencies for Coresteel customers. Coresteel manages projects from design and engineering through to manufacturing and construction, ensuring efficiencies in design and delivery.

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BUILDING » Coresteel Buildings

Business North February 2015 Utilising the latest software technology allows for the efficient design of buildings resulting in faster erection and often significant cost savings.

One example of the benefits of Coresteel’s modular structure is the Pacific Motor Group commercial premises in Whangarei, designed and built by the Coresteel Northland team.

Featuring a 46 metre span ceiling, unispan floor, separate workshop, undercover car parking and separate Ford and Mazda showrooms, the Pacific Motor Group build is a great example of Coresteel’s capabilities.

The build includes close to 3500sq.m of Dimond DP955 on the roof. Design components including aesthetic cold-formed curving, a six metre cantilever over a creek, nested purlins and even a two bedroom internal apartment. This project proves that Coresteel can cater to any design requirements.

The Coresteel system has also been designed to be easy for architects, designers and draftspeople.

Coresteel Buildings can work with these professionals to create the best solution for their client’s needs.

The software Coresteel uses allows the company to quickly and easily provide architects with accurate structural costs for feasibility studies in just a matter of hours. The Coresteel system also allows for reduced professional fees for their clients. For example the Pacific Motor Group premises took just 24 weeks to construct, including storm water attenuation and car parking, these efficiencies translated into significant cost savings.

The typical cost of professional fees, including engineering and architectural fees, can be anywhere between 10%-15% of the total building cost.

In comparison, the Pacific Motor Group only attracted 4% of the total building cost, combined with Coresteel’s cold-form system saved the building owners over $500,000.00.

Coresteel Buildings is a 100% New Zealand owned and operated company with 22 locally owned franchises.

Because Coresteel exclusively manufactures larger steel sections, it can construct buildings of virtually any size utilising the cost advantages of cold-formed technology in far bigger buildings than are typically possible.

| 23

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24 |

February 2015 Business North

BUILDING » Planit Construction

Planit unveils renovation expertise Jo Bailey The awards just keep coming for Planit Construction. In 2014, the Wellington firm won six Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards for two sizeable renovation projects, adding to an already impressive tally.

“It’s been another successful year. Since 2010 we’ve won 27 House of the Year awards and have reached the national finals six times,” says company spokesperson, Andrew Munn.

He says this year’s results were memorable given the awards were spread across two projects.

“These homes had two completely different building crews working on them, which shows the depth we have throughout the whole company,” says Munn.

A sympathetic renovation to a heritage-listed home in Khandallah Road was the big winner, with Planit Construction awarded the Supreme Award for the Wellington and Wairarapa Registered Master Builders 2014 Renovation of the Year, as well as the Outdoor Living Award and a Gold Award and category win for the ITM Renovation Award $250,000 - $500,000.

This project went onto the national finals where the judges said the company achieved an “immaculate renovation” on an extremely difficult site.

“The builder overcame a number of challenges, including a steep site with restricted access and a large excavation to create a seamless addition to a historically important building. Built with accuracy and precision, the builder has fully carried out his client’s wishes,” they said.

Munn says the renovation has been an ongoing project with the owners for several years, with the latest, award-winning stage resulting in the addition of a new laundry, two new bedrooms, and the extensive redevelopment of a courtyard area.

A sympathetic renovation to a heritage-listed home in Khandallah Road won the Supreme Award for the Wellington and Wairarapa Registered Master Builders 2014 Renovation of the Year.

“We demolished an old part of the house and completely replaced it with the new section. The challenge was to seamlessly integrate the old with the new, while retaining the character of the heritage-listed house.”

Planit Construction also won a Silver Award and

Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award for another entry in Mt Victoria.

This project saw the addition of a new double garage with internal access in a new basement area; full paintwork of the interior; and the redevelopment of the home’s upstairs bathrooms.

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Planit Construction also won a Silver Award and Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award.

Munn says the firm works on a wide range of projects including new homes, renovations, kitchens and bathrooms and landscaping.

“At the moment we have a few new house projects underway.

“However renovations projects traditionally provides the bulk of our workload. It’s a necessity to specialise in this market in Wellington where there is not as much space for new housing as in other centres.”

Planit Construction’s expertise in heritage work is something that sets the firm apart, he says.

“These projects require different skills and a very high attention to detail to match the new with the old and retain the heritage character of the house.”

Directors Rowan Hannah and Greg Parish founded the award-winning firm over seven years ago, and now have 20 staff.

They are a good complement, with Hannah looking after the general management of the firm from the office, and Parish out on the work sites, liaising with clients and managing their teams of builders.

“We’ve got a really busy year ahead,” says Munn.

“The Master Builders awards definitely raise our profile and are a good marketing tool as enquiries skyrocket the day after the results are announced.

“We’re proud of the efforts of our team to consistently achieve at this level and of our reputation for developing the best solutions to complex property and construction challenges.”

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Business North February 2015

BUILDING » Tuohy Homes

| 25

Tuohy Homes recently completed this $1.5 million kindergarten.

Lockwood adapts to changing times Jo Bailey The owner of New Zealand’s longest serving Lockwood franchise says there are many reasons why the brand has traded successfully in New Zealand for over 63 years.

“Obviously Lockwood delivers a nice, natural timber finish,” says Brent Tuohy, of Wellington franchise, Tuohy Homes Ltd. “However there are numerous other factors which keep the brand at the top of the market such as versatility, durability, low maintenance, high efficiency, and strength,” The ability for the product to withstand major seismic events was also proven during the Christchurch earthquakes, when around 300 Lockwood homes in the city all survived.

“They have also stood up well to cyclones overseas. Safety is a key attribute of Lockwood homes which is important to a lot of people.”

Tuohy is “passionate about and dedicated to” the Lockwood brand, and says there is often a misconception that it is a modular, kitset product that only has set plans.

“This is not the case at all. Most of our homes are design and build, and quite architectural and modern in style.

“We can offer plenty of flexibility when it comes to the design.”

Lockwood has its own research and development team that is constantly looking at

ways to improve and enhance the product, he says.

“The brand moves with the times. Greater engineering and insulation has been added to the product to meet changing Building Code requirements.

“The aesthetics of the interior have also been enhanced, with a pine clear finish now available which has no knots in the timber at all.”

Tuohy says a lot of clients are choosing to white wash or “blonde” the interiors of their home rather than have a natural wood finish.

“Some people even paint the walls. There are lots of different ways to approach the timber finish.”

Tuohy is the sole director of Tuohy Homes - a family owned and operated company that was started by his father Phil Tuohy in the early 1970’s. Around the same time the company took on the Lockwood franchise for the Hutt Valley and by the 1980s was representing the brand in the greater Wellington region, as far north as Wairarapa and Horowhenua.

The firm has been based at Plimmerton Estate, Porirua for the last 30 years and has won numerous awards and accolades, including the Trades Services Awards for three consecutive years in the ‘Porirua Business Excellence Awards’, from 2012 to 2014.

Brent Tuohy has been involved with the company for 25 years and bought his father out around four-and-a-half years ago.

Tuohy Homes has built hundreds of Lockwood homes for Wellington clients over the last four decades and also carries out re-clads and alterations work.

However the firm is not restricted to the residential market and has been busy in other sectors.

“We recently handed over a $1.5 million kindergarten which was a fantastic project to be involved with.”

Tuohy Homes has its own designer, project manager and accounts manager on the team who ensure the building process runs seamlessly for its clients.

The company uses a mix of its own building

teams and outside contractors, which are also part of the “Tuohy Homes family”, he says.

“Most of our contractors work solely for us, and many have been with us for years.

“We have a painter and an electrician who have contracted to us for 37 years which is pretty extraordinary.”

The family approach is also true of the Lockwood brand, says Tuohy.

“Lockwood is an innovative, flexible, high quality and well known building system that has stood the test of time due to the company’s strong values.

“It started as a family business back in the early 1950’s, and remains so today.”

“The brand moves with the times. Greater engineering and insulation has been added to the product to meet changing Building Code requirements.”

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26 |

BUILDING » Steve Fox Builders

February 2015 Business North

Plenty on the go at Lake Taupo Jo Bailey Home alterations and renovations are keeping Taupo firm Steve Fox Builders busy.

“We work on a wide variety of residential projects including new homes, but the past year was mainly alterations projects,’ says Steve.

“A lot of our work comes from word of mouth and referrals.”

He says the firm’s last couple of jobs have been for permanent residents at Lake Taupo.

However, they also do a lot of projects for outof-towners, building new holiday homes and doing alterations on their baches or holiday homes in the region.

“There is a degree of trust involved in these projects as we don’t always see these clients much and quite often have to co-ordinate everything for them including project management.”

Steve Fox Builders is just finishing an extensive renovation to a home in Taupo, which has involved converting the existing internal access garage into a rumpus room, building new decks, a new roof, installing double glazing and building a separate new double garage with attic above it.

“We have another couple of big alterations coming up this year and are already pricing another alteration and new home.

“Alterations can be more difficult than a new build but very rewarding when we have achieved exactly what the client wants.”

Steve says the level of skill required for alterations work is sometimes under-rated.

“These projects can throw up quite a few challenges. It takes skill to fix something that is way off plumb and make it look good.

“When I was an apprentice we learned this sort of traditional craftsmanship, but these days a lot of the young builders are working with kitset homes and pre-hung doors, so are missing out on that experience.”

Steve Fox has been in business for 33 years, first in Wanganui and for the last 18 years in Taupo.

The firm also services Pukawa, Omori, Kuratau and Whareroa.

Taupo-based Steve Fox Builders is focused on building new holiday homes and doing alterations and renovations.

He employs two fully qualified builders, including his son Brendon and says people choose his firm because of the team’s experience, high quality workmanship and trustworthiness.

“Our clients like the fact I am still on the tools myself and they can deal directly with me.”

The firm constructs anything from standard to architectural homes, as well as completing “tricky alterations and restorations”.

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He says the team is happy to fit in smaller projects such as fences, decks and small maintenance projects when time allows.

Steve Fox Builders has had success at Master Builders House of the Year Awards with awards in New Homes and Alterations categories.

He has witnessed plenty of changes in his time in the industry and remains proudly “old school” when it comes to some aspects of the trade.

“I still do a lot of pricing with my book in hand rather than on the computer. When it comes to health and safety we are right up with the play.

“However I think it’s a shame there are so many extra costs to meet compliance these days that have to be passed onto the client”.

If the workload continues to increase he he may employ another builder over the coming months. “ I have never been the type of guy to have 10

Business North February 2015

BUILDING » Steve Fox Builders

| 27

Steve Fox Builders has had plenty of success at Master Builders House of the Year Awards over the years. or 20 people on the team. I like to keep things relatively small to maintain quality and service.”

Overall, he says he is happy with how the business is ticking over.

“We understand that it can be nerve-wracking

for people to put their vision for their project in someone else’s hands.

“However we believe we have consistently proved over the years that we’re the right people for the job.”

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28 |

BUILDING » Hawke Property Development

February 2015 Business North

The extensive renovation of the Kerikeri Tennis Club saw the club building almost double in size - the project also included extensive decking as well as a complete interior renovation.

Game, set, and match at Kerikeri Karen Phelps An extensive renovation of the Kerikeri Tennis Club shows that Hawke Property Developments has now grown to the size that it can take on virtually any project, says one of the company directors Alison Hawke.

The tennis club building has almost doubled in size and the project includes extensive decking as well as a complete interior renovation with new kitchen, flooring and joinery.

Hawke Property Developments was started in 2008 by Alison and husband Darrin, a qualified builder, when the couple moved to Northland.

Darrin previously worked in Auckland as a labour only contractor on million dollar plus homes. He has now been building for over 20 years bringing his considerable experience to projects such as the Kerikeri Tennis Club.

Based in Kerikeri, Hawke Property Developments is proud to be a real family run business with Darrin’s father George, a qualified

builder, also working for the company.

Initially starting with smaller contracts the company has grown with business primarily generated by word of mouth recommendation from satisfied clients.

“We always ask ourselves if we were the clients what would we want? Clients want peace of mind and to know that their work has been completed to a high standard,” says Alison.

Hawke Property Developments builds from Kaitaia to Kawakawa and completes both small and large projects including maintenance, renovations, new house builds and commercial projects.

“We believe that every job is important. If we treat every job equally no matter what the size it shows the clients that they can trust us with their larger jobs as well. Innovation is important.

“If we can find a way to build it we will. If it’s not a standard run of the mill job we’ll find a solution,” she says.

Integrity is another cornerstone of the successful business: “Integrity is so important to

us. This extends from our first meeting with the client and listening to their needs to working with them throughout the project ensuring we stick to their budget and the price we quoted. There should be no unpleasant surprises.”

While Darrin takes on the physical building work and project management, Alison takes charge of the administration side of the business.

She says the two work together seamlessly as a team. The company typically has focused on one project at a time but as demand grows in the last six months the company has undertaken multiple projects.

The next project for Hawke Property Developments is a relocatable home, which will be shifted from Whangarei to Kerikeri.

The company will undertake extensions to the home. The couple, who originally hail from Whangarei, is passionate about the Far North.

“Our goal is to stay here and raise our family and we rely on continued company growth to do this.

“It feels good to help boost the Far North by creating jobs and building homes to bring more people into this amazing part of New Zealand.”

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Whether you are considering a house renovation, extension or building a new home in the Northland area, using your designer or ours, we adapt to suit your needs. Our goal is consistent, a smooth process on time and budget. Build with confidence contact Darrin at Hawke Property Developments today for a free consultation and quote.

PO Box 114, Kerikeri 0230 M: 021 100 4334 E: info@hawkepropertydevelopments.co.nz W: www.hawkepropertydevelopments.co.nz Alison and Darrin Hawke started Hawke Property Developments in 2008 after moving to Northland.

Business North February 2015

BUILDING » Isles Construction

| 29

Isles Construction expands horizons Sue Russell Palmerston North builders Isles Construction Ltd has established long-standing relationships with several government and non-government organisations.

The company’s history has had a few twists and turns along the way since being formed in 1975 by Bob and Desma Isles.

Since 2004 the busy commercial construction company has been run by the Bob and Desma’s son and daughter Cameron and Tarsha.

“We’re proud of the fact that we are still 100% family owned and operated. With our long-standing clients like NZ Defence Force, the Ministry of Education and Department of Corrections I’m sure this is a point of difference and is why we continue to get so much work from them,” says Cameron Isles.

Isles Construction Ltd had its own dedicated residential housing division which it started some 8 years ago but 18 months ago, and with some degree of sadness, decided to shift away from this to instead taking up a Jennian Homes franchise.

The company operates with a core team of qualified builders on their books and then, as necessary contracts work out to other builders who for the most part have also worked for the company for many years.

“We decided about a year ago to get involved in work in Christchurch with the rebuild in mind,” he says.

“What’s been good about that is that it has given some of our young guys the experience of doing construction work on a scale we don’t normally do.”

When Business North spoke with Cameron Isles he said they had eight projects on the go which was fairly typical pre-Christmas.

The company’s team is structured in such a way that they can easily manage this number at any one time, with project managers and site foremen on site throughout builds.

“We’re currently at Waiouru building a 60 room barrack complex and down in the Hutt Valley refurbishing and re-cladding the a secondary school’s two storey admin and library building, constructing a brand new two-storey classroom block at Cornerstone Christian Secondary School and a major earthquake proofing of the former

All in the family: Tarsha and Cameron Isles on site at another residential building project.

Palmerston North library to name a couple.

“We relish the diversity of the projects we get involved with,” says Cameron, who these days is very much overseeing operations.

With a 40th birthday to be celebrated next year Cameron says the company has had some struggles in the past but he believes these have made the company all the stronger for it.

“A decade ago the company was down to less than five staff as Bob was winding down and nearing retirement.

“Then Tarsha and I joined the firm and we started to grow again and through a lot of hard work the company now has 64 full time staff.

“Dad never really retired and still works parttime on the tools.”

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recently when it won a prestigious business award, the Westpac Manawatu Business Awards in the Professional Services Retail and Trades category.All entries were rigorously assessed by two local prominent business people.

Cameron says they were interested in seeing how well the company did the basics of good business. Once shortlisted down to four finalists, intensive interviewing covering all aspects of the company’s operation took place.

“One of the staff entered us. To be judged by others can be daunting but we got some really good feedback.

“Tarsha is our financial officer while I tend to be good at spending money, so to have come out top in this award means we’re doing things right.”

Cameron thinks there is not much to be gained by aspiring to grow the company even larger than its current capacity.

“The next goal for me is to take a further step back and employ another full time project manager so I can concentrate on the staff development.

“That’s very important in areas like health and safety.”

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BUILDING » Coleman Builders

30 |

February 2015 Business North

Keeping it local works for Richard Jo Bailey Matamata builder Richard Coleman says clients engaging his company Coleman Builders are inadvertently supporting the wider business community in the region.

“I’m passionate about buying materials from local suppliers and using local sub-contractors.

It’s important for businesses in small regional towns to work together where we can.”

Richard has been building in Matamata for around 40 years and has run his own business for the last 35, which also services Morrinsville, Tirau and Putaruru.

Coleman Builders carries out mainly new residential and alterations work, but also completes a few commercial builds, he says.

“We built the new Gull service station in town two years ago, and are about to start constructing a truck painting workshop for a local motor vehicle painter.”

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The firm is also finishing off two new homes for clients and building a new unit in a retirement village for an elderly couple.

“We operate mainly in the mid-range of the market and do lot of work for the older generation. I put this down to the trust we’ve built in the market over 40 years and the fact older people like to deal with a traditional builder.

“We are happy to guide them through the building process and have weekly and sometimes twice-weekly meetings on-site with them.”

When building for the retired market, Coleman Builders often follows Lifeproof principles, which future-proof homes for people as they age.

Some of the features incorporated into these homes include access showers in bathrooms, outdoor terraces built flush at floor level to minimise the risk of falls, tap fittings that suit people with arthritis and toilet areas with wheelchair access.

Richard says the rural market is another area of expertise for the company, which helped it to negotiate the recession.

“Our team is versatile and happy to tackle a wide range of projects.

“If someone wants a fence or small shed such as a calving or implement shed built, we definitely have a look at it. We used to build cowsheds but

are not involved in this market any more.”

For the last 15 years he has consistently employed around six tradesmen whom he continues to work on the tools alongside two or three days a week.

He tries to have at least two apprentices on the team at all times. “It’s vital to bring the younger guys through to ensure the continuation of the business. One of our apprentices won Waikato Apprentice of the Year in 2011 and went onto the New Zealand final which was a feather in his cap and great for the company.”

Richard has noticed plenty of changes after four decades in the industry.

“There is a lot more paperwork to complete and a lot more regulations these days particularly around working with heights.

“Health and safety is something I really emphasis to the guys all the time.”

He says the company prides itself on being professional and reliable.

“We work hard to protect our reputation for delivering projects on time, under budget and to a consistently high standard of workmanship,’ says Richard. ““We’ve have also been well-supported by the Matamata community over the years, which is something I’m grateful for.”

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Business North February 2015

BUILDING » Coleman Builders

| 31

Coleman Builders carries out mainly new residential and alterations work, but also completes a few commercial builds.

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32 |

BUILDING » Boss Projects

February 2015 Business North

Leaky home specialist builds trust Karen Phelps The biggest factor for clients requiring leaky

home remediation work completed is trust, says Brent Boden from Boss Projects.

His building company has come to specialise in leaky home projects in the Auckland region due to the reputation which the company has established.

“We have a good list of references from previous clients and in fact they often recommend us to people they know. We have a reputation for being an honest and reliable company to deal with,” he says.

Boden started his company in 2005 but has been operating his own building companies for around 20 years in New Zealand.

It was just a year later that the company undertook its first reclad project by chance when an alteration it was completing on a home turned into a leaky building project.

On the back of the successful outcome of this project the company started to build a reputation for remediating leaky homes.

Boden says that despite the years that have passed since the leaky homes scandal first surfaced there are still a lot of leaky homes which need remediation.

Boss Projects works as a preferred contractor for architects and building surveying companies. The company also deals direct with homeowners.

The scope of reclad work the company completes ranges from individual homes to small blocks of units and apartments.

No matter what the job Boden says one thing is at the forefront of the client’s mind: quality workmanship that will last.

A lot of this boils down to the Boss Projects team led by Boden who is a holder of a Site 2 License under the Department of Building and Housing Licensed Building Practitioner Scheme.

Boden was 21 when he started his first business, a small company in Auckland that

The scope of reclad work the company completes ranges from individual homes to small blocks of units and apartments.

covered housing alterations through to light commercial construction.

After five years he obtained overseas project management contracts then returned to New Zealand to establish Boss Projects Ltd. It is this wealth of knowledge, which Boden now brings to leaky home and building projects.

Boss Projects Ltd is a member of the Registered Master Builders Federation and Hazardco.

The biggest commercial project the company has undertaken to date was a block of 14 apartments at Pannill Place, Albany on Auckland’s North Shore.

The project involved the complete stripping and removal of all existing wall cladding and roofing then reconstructing the buildings to a new design.

This involved foundation work and a complete new roof. It was 12-month contract, which the company pulled off in just ten and a half months.

Although Boss Projects typically employs a team of eight plus extra contractors as required the Pannill Place project had 17 staff working at peak.

Boss Projects is currently working on the reclad of a residential home in Devonport and is about to commence on a multi apartment complex reclad in Mairangi Bay. In leaky home and building work projects can often turn out to be larger than anticipated once the structure is opened up, says Boden.

“It’s a matter of being up front with the clients and explaining the situation to them.

“Past performance is everything in this business.

“We have worked hard to ensure that Boss Projects Ltd is a company that people can rely on to provide the service they need when they need it.”

“We have a good list of references from previous clients and in fact they often recommend us to people they know. We have a reputation for being an honest and reliable company.”

The biggest commercial project the company has undertaken to date was a block of 14 apartments at Pannill Place, Albany, on Auckland’s North Shore.

Business North February 2015

BUILDING » Coastal Homes

| 33

Building a niche at Coopers Beach Sue Russell When your back yard is the beautiful Doubtless Bay in the Far North the lifestyle it affords is good enough reason to settle and establish a business; the icing on that cake is when the business flourishes as is the case with Coopers Beach building company Coastal Homes.

Glen Bradbury, owner of Coastal Homes, a construction company he started in 2006, has lived all his life in this special part of New Zealand and he has no intention of moving away.

“I have been building since 1999 and since establishing Coastal Homes the company has grown significantly on the back of the reputation it has secured,” says Bradbury.

These days he employs a team of 4 office-based staff and 18 builders and his territory extends anywhere north of Kerikeri.

Helping him are two key directors, operations manager Shane Yardley and director of marketing and administration Celina Yardley.

This year has brought another accolade to the company in the form of building apprentice Kyran Vaniperen, being named Northern Region Registered Master Builders Carters 2014 Apprentice of the Year.

The 25-year-old is in his third year of training and the win qualified him to compete against eight other regional winners in Auckland in October.

“It is an intensive process, involving a trip away to Whangarei to be interviewed by the judging panel and if selected for the final few, a visit to see them in action at their work site,’ says glen.

“As the boss I was also asked to describe Kyran’s building capabilities and his work ethic.

They wanted to know how well he managed himself and his workmanship attitude.”

At the national awards held at Auckland’s Cloud, Kyran and the other finalists were required to build a play house and were further interviewed.

Glen says the key to the company’s continued growth and success is the calibre of staff it employs, which he puts down to a few key factors.

“You have got to have great key staff and employ builders who have a high standard of quality of their own work.

Coastal Homes has flourished in the Far North, with its beautifully built homes matching the stunning location.

“The big thing is to have guys who want to do it right. We’ve got some really great foreman.”

He says, living and working in a small town makes the screening of potential new staff so much easier.

“You know within three or four weeks and my staff weed out those who aren’t up to scratch.”

With the higher standards and increased accountabilities that have come with the era of the Licenced Building Practitioner, he says it has been a good thing because these demands also sort out the cowboys from those who are seriously committed to excellence in their chosen career.

Living and working so far north of Auckland, with its more frenzied energy, means that the ‘Auckland ripple’ takes about a year or so to work its way up, according to Bradbury.

Overseeing such a busy company means he isn’t working on the tools as much as he would wish to in a perfect world.

Having stamped such a strong presence in the community he’s always lived in, Glen Bradbury is now in the position to give back to that same community, through sponsoring many sports teams, community initiatives and events.

These include the Taipa Stock & Saloon Car Club, Doubtless Bay Play Group Easter Dig, the Oruru Valley Rodeo and Mangonui Lions Fun Run to name just a few.

“We’re all living in this area and supporting schools and organisations is a really positive way of giving back.

“We wouldn’t have it any other way.”

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34 |

BUILDING » Nailing It Ltd

February 2015 Business North

Nailing It - living up to its name Jo Bailey Nailing It Ltd is a small Palmerston North building company achieving big things.

The firm has been recognised for both the quality of its workmanship and quality of its training and staff at this year’s Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards.

An impressive architecturally designed home at Mt Stewart won a silver award for Nailing It in the Nulook $650,000 to $1 million category at the Manawatu-Wanganui regional awards.

The firm’s employee Ryan Smith-Pilling was also named the Central North Island region’s top apprentice builder and went on to finish third at the national finals of the Apprentice of the Year competition.

Owner Stew Buchanan, who attended the finals with Ryan, says he was delighted by his achievements.

“It was a great effort. Ryan has really grown in confidence, which shone through during the interview process at the competition.

“The apprentices had to build a playhouse and were judged on speed and quality. Ryan’s eye-fordetail and workmanship saw him finish right up there in the top three in New Zealand.”

The 400 square metre silver-award winning home in the Master Builders competition was built for an old school friend of Buchanan’s on a 20-acre lifestyle property.

Features of the home include polished concrete floors throughout, cathedral ceilings with exposed rafters, a guest wing, and large double feature fireplace wall with ground concrete block surround, which separates the living area from a parents’ retreat.

The house is warmed by a hot-water under-floor heating system fuelled by a large wood boiler in the garage.

Buchanan says he was “pretty chuffed” to receive a silver award, especially considering it was the first house they had entered in the competition.

Working on high-end architectural homes is nothing new to Buchanan who spent three years building multi-million dollar beach front homes on Australia’s Gold Coast before returning home around 10 years ago to set up his own business.

Nailing It has been based in Palmerston North for the last five years.

“We build a lot of high end homes and have completed quite a few spec houses for ourselves at the top end.

“We enjoy this work but have a diverse portfolio crossing all markets.”

C.A.D.S

An impressive architecturally designed home at Mt Stewart won a silver award for Nailing It Builders.

Although the firm specialises in new builds, Nailing It works on a range of other projects, including renovations and rural buildings.

“In addition to some new home projects and renovations we’re starting in the New Year, we will also be building a goat milking shed for a farm that is being converted. We are quite diverse in that respect.”

Buchanan employs a qualified builder and has two apprentices on the team.

“I like to keep the business small to maintain the quality of the work.

“Training my own apprentices is a big part of this philosophy, so I know we are all working to the same standard, using correct techniques with no shortcuts taken.”

Nailing It works with a select group of skilled sub-contractors and as members of both Certified Builders and Registered Master Builders, provides its clients with the security of guarantees and contracts.

company has many advantages. We can offer a full turnkey service or labour only, provide excellent value for money, are accessible and customerfocused, and deliver a quality result.”

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The fact Buchanan is on the tools himself and running his clients’ projects is another selling point for the company, he says.

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Business North

BUILDING » MnM Design

February 2015

| 35

Couple enjoy inside look at process Sue Russell Maurice and Marije Regeer operate their busy architectural designing business MnM Design at Te Puke in the Bay of Plenty.

The couple, originally from the Netherlands, bring a complementary set of skills to their practice.

According to Maurice, who holds a Bachelor of Building and Environment and is a Licensed Building Practitioner, this duality of expertise is the core strength of their business.

“We generally divide up a project, taking specific roles around it from conceptualising the design brief through to project management and the completed build,” he says.

“Marije has a Masters in Architecture and she comes up with the concept and floor plan. I am more involved with the technical aspects like dealing with compliances, talking to Council, so together we offer the full package.”

In a unique twist the couple have recently experienced what it is like to be their own client, in the construction of their small ‘get away from it all’ holiday home not far from the ski slopes at Ohakune.

“In our design we were really keen to use natural materials, with bamboo light shades and plywood inside. Even the kitchen bench is constructed of LVL plywood turned on its edges.”

The couple engaged the builder in a labour-only contract so everything other than swinging the hammer, which Regeer also got involved in during the construction phase, was their responsibility to deal with.

“It was a very busy time, but being hands on though stressful at times was very rewarding and professionally of great value for me.

“I got to experience absolutely what it is like to build and how you’re constantly dealing with the need to manage unexpected issues.”

Called the Magnolia Bach the stylish home was also the winner in the residential compact (up to 150 square metres) new home section in the 2014 Architectural Design Awards Taranaki/Wanganui.

The judges said: “The simple outdoor form has been carefully modulated to provide sheltered outdoor spaces.

“Designed around a set of tough parameters including height restrictions, views and prevailing wind.”

MnM Design’s Magnolia Bach won the residential compact new home section of last year’s Architectural Design Awards Taranaki/Wanganui.

Magnolia Bach’s basic rectangular shape steps in at its north/west side of the house with the roof extending over cleverly providing escape from the summer sun while enabling the sun’s energy to flow through the home, dramatically reducing the need for alternative heating sources.

“We only have a wood burner in the home and we found over Christmas time last year the power bill was $15,” Regeer says.

Maurice says he also enjoys alteration work for the complexities that often come with working within a defined space and around people.

“I’m fortunate to work with a builder who is exceptionally skilled at alteration work because it is

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not like starting from scratch with no impediments and that takes a particular type of personality and skill-set to work well in.”

Key to a successful designing process, says Maurice, is being upfront right from the start with clients.

“You have to be realistic about budgets. You need to say right from the start ‘go back to the bank, get more money or reconsider what you want to do’. That’s essential.”

Pride of place among the design transformations MnM has undertaken is one very close to the Regeers’ hearts – changing what was a run-down old school-house relocated from Paeroa and settled on their backyard to become the hub of their busy practice.

“It was just a nightmare when we first saw it but we were so taken with the tongue-and-groove ceilings and walls that we decided to retain them and create our office with these elements intact,” says Maurice.

“When we lifted the old carpet beautiful rimu floorboard appeared so we polished them off of course.”

The project became National Finalist in the Architectural Designers New Zealand/Resene Colour in Design award.

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36 |

BUILDING » Saunders Architects

February 2015 Business North

Lloyd House - the stunning two-storey home was designed by Saunders Architects with entertaining and performance in mind.

‘Master of Flow’ keeps delivering Sue Russell Neville Saunders has practiced architecture in New Plymouth for 14 years and in through this time he has stamped his mark on the town designing many inspirational homes and commercial buildings.

For the architect, who describes himself as an artist, there are many factors that meld into creating great design.

“My clients are my friends. With every project we take on the client deals with the architect right the way through to fruition because we are a small practice.

“This connectivity is a core strength because it reflects the true partnership relationship between architect and client,” says Saunders.

Saunders describes himself first and foremost as an artist with a strong bent toward colour. The EFS Accounting Building, wrapped in a big green band of colour, is a fine example of how colour has added so much aesthetically to the building’s form.

“Good design always prevails and I think this has been my over-riding mantra. You come to me because you want something new and fresh but the designs are timeless.

“Buildings I designed 30 years ago haven’t dated and sit well in today’s modern landscape.”

As testament to just what can be created with an artful disposition one need look no further than the stunning residence ‘Lloyd House’.

The original owners called for a large two storey home that would allow the musical couple, who entertained a lot, to hold performances for large numbers of guests.

This was achieved by the clever use of sliding doors which literally divided one large space into several smaller ones centred around a double sided open fireplace.

“They call me ‘the Master of Flow’. It is so crucial to good design. I have been in houses that are 50 years old and because they’ve been designed with how people actually move and live they’re still lovely homes to this day.”

“Good design always prevails and I think this has been my over-riding mantra. You come to me because you want something new and fresh but the designs are timeless.”

When Saunders is first approached to design a home he asks his clients to go away, buy a scrap book, and fill it with photos of things they like. In this way, he can begin to see and feel just what appeals and captures their imagination.

“It’s a great experience for people to engage in the project this way. I ask them what they like about living rooms, what’s important for them in every type of room, their ideal size and of course, their budget.”

The next stage is to come up with some concept drawings.

“In 1987 I got my first computer. These days architects operate without pencils.

“It’s all done via computer but the advantage is that you can create very real senses of space for clients to see themselves in.”

Saunders has carved a niche in the design of child-friendly childcare centres.

He says that it is a particular passion for him and because he can imagine how very small children use space, his buildings are wonderfully welcoming and practical for their small and not so small inhabitants alike.

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Business North

BUILDING » Saunders Architects

February 2015

| 37

Neville Saunders describes himself first and foremost as an artist with a strong bent toward colour.

“It’s essential to break down large spaces into small areas; nooks and crannies for children to be in and with separate staff areas.

“With colours the thinking in the past was that children want primary colours splashed all over the place; the truth is they like what adults like.

“They want the same colours that are on the walls of their homes.”

Giving back to his vocation is something Neville is passionate about; helping with mentoring and supporting the next generation of architects fresh from study.

Saunders says he has been inspired by iconic American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

“It was Wright who said, ‘Every great architect is – necessarily – a great poet. He must be a great original interpreter of his time, his day, his age’.”

“He reshaped thinking around what it means to be an architect and his buildings are just as relevant and appropriate today as they were when he first conceived their design,” Saunders says.

And that is what Neville would wish for every building he has designed and for his future work.

Pointing to his head, Saunders says “there are a lot more designs up here that still have to come out!”

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38 |

February 2015 Business North

MARINE » Ship Repair NZ

The 63-metre Oceanic Discoverer passenger liner has been into the company several times for survey and general repairs.

Luxury vessels big part of business Karen Phelps Ship Repair NZ is becoming known in the marketplace for its work on luxury vessels, says company project manager Nick Eilering.

“The company, which started in 2006, is cementing its position in the market.

“As we successfully complete more luxury projects we are finding we are getting repeat customers and word of mouth is spreading our reputation,” says Eilering.

“In fact last year around 70% of our business was from repeat clients,” says Eilering.

An example of this is the Oceanic Discoverer, a 63-metre passenger liner, which has been into the company several times for survey and general repairs.

The Whangarei company has also just completed work on a vessel called Alucia after working on another vessel called Umbra for the same owner the year before.

Eilering says Alucia and Umbra are good examples of the vast range of skills which can be found in Whangarei, something that is attracting more customers to the region.

“On Umbra, Whangarei Engineering built the beams and structure to hold a new helicopter deck.

“We completed the work inside the vessel to hold the external structure and fitted the deck. Then Oceania Marine completed the painting and general interior repairs and modification.

“Our work ethic is that no job is too big or too small. We surround ourselves with good contractors so we can tackle any project.”

Ship Repair NZ offers a number of services: ship repairs, marine fabrication and heavy engineering, custom ship refits and ship surveys.

It is the only privately owned slipway facility and ship repair company in New Zealand, which Eilering says means that the company has greater control over its business as well as the ability to offer

customers a more personal service.

The company was started by Eilering’s father, Henk, who previously owned McRae Engineering.

Staff numbers sit at around 45, a big jump on the 35 staff the company employed less than two years ago.

Nick Eilering says a focus on training and retaining highly qualified staff has been a major driver.

“This gives us expertise in-house and ensures that we have a highly capable team ready to go at all times to meet customer demand.

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Business North

MARINE » Ship Repair NZ

February 2015

| 39

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February 2015 Business North

MARINE » Ship Repair NZ

Luxury vessel maintenance brings growth • from page 38 “It also means that our staff are hard working and prepared to go the extra mile to meet our customers’ requirements and time lines.”

As part of this focus on staff, Ship Repair NZ is totally committed to bringing new blood into the industry.

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

Eilering, who works alongside the company’s other project managers Peter Ducrot and John Clements, says the company’s three project managers play a key role in the business.

“We deal personally with each project the company undertakes and interface with clients.

“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.

“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.

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

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work, 24-hour onsite security and fully serviced offices for ship owners’ use.

Eilering says that continual investment is being made into the company including a new 22 metre

elevated work platform to give greater control over projects and timing.

“Whangarei has great wharfs and very experienced contractors and so the area is getting

better known by customers.

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Business North

February 2015

CONTRACTING » Tasman Design and Civil / Mulch Man

| 41

Cambridge company spreads its net wide Sue Russell Tasman Design & Civil Ltd is a Cambridge based major infrastructure civil construction company which has experienced extensive growth in the past few years.

The company’s general manager Lester Foxall says this growth has come with challenges attached but the company now is at a capacity to operate effectively in the industries it serves.

“Most of the challenges are logistical and generally based around location, complexity of the projects and resources,” Foxall says.

“With multiple projects on the go at any one time throughout the country, there is a high degree of planning involved,” he says.

“We have a core base of highly skilled staff on the wage roll and depending on the number and nature of projects on our books at any one time, we are supported with a pool of competent subcontractors used to working throughout the country on these specialised projects.”

The construction industry has become highly regulated over the past few years particularly working in live switchyard environments.

The energy infrastructure area is one of several core disciplines the company has evolved into becoming highly skilled at.

The company is often working in live switchyards building purpose built structures,

fire walls and foundation pads to support large electrical equipment.

When Foxall joined the company nine years ago the main aim then was to secure more projects in energy infrastructure. He says it was very much a case of the company serving its time and proving its worth.

“It’s a high pressure industry and you are judged on how you perform on every project and it has taken many years to get where we are.”

Key to the company’s success has been a constant focus on a ‘no compromise’ attitude towards safety. Working inside live switch yards is a high risk business and Tasman Design and Civil’s track-record on safety speaks for itself.

Foxall says that consistency of quality and reliability are key factors influencing the success of company’s working in the infrastructure industry.

Helping to maintain this is a core of regular staff who over time have become known within the industry for producing top quality work.

“We also have to be very proactive on staff training ensuring all staff working in these hazardous environments have undergone CPR, site and supervisory competency courses.”

A project Foxall says he’s especially enjoyed being involved with recently is the building of a new water reservoir and associated pump buildings at Akaroa near Christchurch; dealing with a combination of precast and insitu construction in a geographically demanding location.

Tasman Design and Civil built this new water reservoir and associated pump buildings at Akaroa.

Mulch Man services over 150 schools in the greater Auckland area with playground mulch.

Busy times for Mulch Man Sue Russell Auckland company Mulch Man is now known as Mulch Man North Island Ltd following its purchase

by Gary Edwards.

Mulch Man operations manager Simon Green, says with a fleet of five mulch blowing trucks, and a staff of 10, the company is as busy as ever, servicing over 150 schools in the greater Auckland area with certified approved playground mulch.

Mulch Man also provides a range of products and services for councils, roading infrastructure companies, commercial construction companies and home-owners. “When it comes to supplying mulch, bark, woodchips, playground mulch and soil/compost blends we do it all,” says Green.

“No job is too big or small. Our specialty is blowing these products through a hose system directly from our truck and into place.”

Of late the company has been busy spreading mulch along new roads and highways being constructed in Tauranga, Cambridge and Auckland’s north western motorway.

The demand for the products and services the company supplies is high so one of Green’s key responsibilities is to ensure the fleet of trucks and equipment is operating in top order.

“The equipment we use is so expensive with millions of dollars tied up in trucks, utes and machinery. We plan to buy one more 8 wheeler to add to our fleet but we are really operating at a good size and capacity these days for what we do and the area we cover,” he says.

The start of the year is always a full-on time with 150 schools to top-up with playground approved bark along with parks and domains around Auckland requiring routine attention.

When the cooler months come around Mulch Man is still busy supplying soil and composts for the region’s busy planting season.

Free on-site appraisals are part of the service the company provides to prospective customers.

Green says there are many good reasons why Mulch Man has become the preferred supplier of bulk mulching products. “We purchase our products in large volumes which means we can pass on the savings benefits directly to clients.

With the mulch-blowing technology our trucks have its easily the most effective way of applying products specifically to the right spot.”

Arbor mulch is a popular product for gardeners and with landscapers because it gives very good weed suppression performance as well as controls erosion, coupled with the fact that over time it breaks down to feed the plants while giving superior moisture retention.

“It’s a totally natural product that looks great.

We also stock a range of natural vegetable dyed colour mulch in black, brown or red. It gives that WOW factor and really lifts the look of gardens,” says Green.

Mulch Man also stocks an extensive range of soil and compost blends, including premium lawn soil made for New Zealand’s demanding conditions.

Each blower truck can carry up 60 cubic metres of product with hoses capable of extending to 100 metres distance.

We can lay a wide range of products including bark, mulch, woodchips, safe fall and soils.

From residential properties to large commercial and industrial areas we can blow products in an effective, efficient area saving you time and money.

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42 |

CONTRACTING » BTW Company

February 2015

Business North

BTW wins recognition for excellence Karen Phelps Sound quality assurance and business systems and a focus on people has seen BTW Company win the supreme award at the 2014 Westpac Taranaki Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.

The company, which offers consultancy services in the fields of planning and resource consenting, surveying and mapping, civil and structural engineering, also took out the large business excellence award and the service industry excellence award.

“We felt all of our systems were pretty good and we were confident in this and our general approach to business.

“We felt we were in a strong position,” says company managing director Phil Dickey explaining the decision to enter the awards.

“Winning the awards has been good for our staff because we all work as one team here and the wins are a great acknowledgement of that combined team effort.”

Although BTW Company started business as surveyors, during the last 10 years it has expanded into a multi-disciplinary business.

The company’s services include resource consent and environmental planning, civil, geotechnical and structural engineering, project management and providing specialist services to the oil and gas industry.

Dickey says that therefore a key aspect of the businesses success has been to offer a multidisciplinary team with well-managed integration of each of these disciplines.

“For example BTW Company is presently working on a marae project and has been able to offer the client a wide range of services and experts including structural engineers, environmental scientists, a resource consents team, traffic engineers and surveyors.

“Typically a client could have to go to several different companies to achieve all these things but BTW Company can offer them in-house.

“This means that we can deliver projects with a technological and economical advantage to our clients.

“It’s a very seamless approach as we all work together as one team, which gives a better understanding of each aspect of projects.

“The judges’ comments from the awards also recognised the fact that each of our divisions has individual goals and team meetings yet also

BTW Co offers consultancy services in the fields of planning and resource consenting, surveying and mapping, civil and structural engineering.

knows how their part contributes to the overall success of the business,” says Dickey.

“Staff are also encouraged to identify and recommend new opportunities. This has helped the company to diversify and expand into multiple disciplines making BTW Company more than just surveyors,” he says.

Retaining skilled staff is recognised as a key component of the business and Dickey says that in order to do this BTW Company has had to offer an attractive, flexible work environment.

“Staff work on flexi-hours. This means they can do their 40 hours per week any time they like over that week.

“So for example we have a guy who is a keen kite surfer so if the wind is right he can take off and enjoy himself.

“We have used this system for over 15 years and found that it leads to people being wellfocused when they are at work.”

Developing its own innovative technology solutions for the benefit of clients has been

another key aspect of the company’s growth and success.

“One of the company’s latest developments is DataPoint, a web based management and reporting application, which supports the dayto-day requirements of tracking and managing projects.

“Another significant piece of software the company has developed is Land Asset Management Application (Llama), which assists companies who need to track assets

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Business North February 2015

CONTRACTING » BTW Company

Winners are grinners: from left, Ian Steele, Tanya Dickey, Trudy Brewer, Graeme Johnston, Grant Aitken and Cameron Twigley.

and compliance with legislation such as the Resource Management Act by monitoring consents and the work required to ensure that the conditions of consents are met over a wide geographical area.

The company is presently investing in 3D laser scanning technology which is capable of taking one million readings per second to offer incredibly accurate mapping solutions.

“We have an IT steering committee to identify

what we need to do to be a leader in our field and ensure we are always making the most of the technology available.

“Our holistic approach to business has helped BTW Company become a leader in its field and created an engaging environment which gives great satisfaction to not only owners but also the staff.

“Our focus is always to keep moving ahead and stay at the forefront.”

“Our holistic approach to business has helped BTW Company become a leader in its field and created an engaging environment which gives great satisfaction to not only owners but also the staff.”

| 43

44 |

CONTRACTING » Edifice Contracts

February 2015

Business North

Swing bridge specialist takes on the challenge Karen Phelps Edifice Contracts has just completed the second largest single span suspension bridge ever constructed in New Zealand.

At 141 metres long the bridge, located above the Maramataha Gorge, is second only in length to the Arapuni suspension bridge in the Waikato which measures 152 metres. But the Maramataha Gorge bridge is higher and more remote, making the project arguably more challenging to construct, says Edifice Contracts director Andrew Hamilton.

“The Maramataha bridge is 56 metres high and involved extensive rock drilling and anchor work as well as the placing of 12.8 metre high gulam towers,” says Andrew.

“But we’re used to challenges so it was all in a day’s work,” he says.

Andrew’s son Roy, a co-director of the company, was the site foreman on the three-month long project.

Andrew admits it was a tight deadline especially considering that once drilling into the rock commenced it was discovered that the rock structure contained cracks and cavities.

“This meant we had to drill deeper and put in extra rock anchors to achieve the required stability.”

The remoteness of the location also presented challenges with Edifice Contracts having to employ a specialised surveying team to locate anchor points which were not easily visible due to the terrain. Cables had to be flown in by helicopter for the project and towers prefabricated in parts then completed insitu due to the weight and size of the bridge.

Andrew says it was one of the most challenging projects that the company has ever undertaken.

Safety was paramount and the company used specialised safety techniques that it had to develop especially for the project including a safety accredited man cage suspended from a helicopter to fit some of the hangers from the main cable to support the bridge deck.

“Rope or abseiling techniques would have been too slow on this project. This way it was a lot faster and we had the job done in a day as opposed to two to three weeks.

“We also pre-fitted hangers to the cables where possible to speed up the job. I guess this project is a good demonstration of Kiwi tenacity and ingenuity as we pulled in more resources and came up with ways to do things faster to keep the project on track.

“It’s our brand to take on the challenging projects and we pride ourselves on this so to successfully complete this project feels awesome,” he says.

Andrew Hamilton, a builder by trade, established Edifice Contracts about six years ago although the parent company has been involved in bridge building for 15 years.

“It’s a specialist market that we saw not many people were catering to, particularly in the cable structure side of things,” he explains.

“We specialise in offering our clients the whole package and pride ourselves on being able to get most of each job completed in-house.”

Edifice Contracts is a family owned and operated business. Company directors include Hamilton’s wife Anna and sons Brett and Roy. The company is centrally located in New Zealand being based in Levin making it easier to service clients no matter where they might be based in New Zealand.

The company can supply and prefabricate its own timber in-house giving a big edge over the competition saving time and making the job safer by manufacturing products off site.

Other projects recently completed in the North Island include two suspension bridges in Waitawheta and five swing bridges over the Waiohine Gorge for the Department of Conservation.

In the South Island the company has recently completed bridges for the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail and Sutherland Falls on the Milford Track.

The Maramataha Gorge suspension bridge is 56 metres high with the construction involving extensive rock drilling and anchor work.

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“We specialise in offering our clients the whole package and pride ourselves on being able to get most of each job completed in-house.”

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Business North February 2015

CONTRACTING » Evergreen Landcare

| 45

Growing firm picks up major award Jo Bailey Being named supreme winners at the 2014 Westpac Rotorua Business Excellence Awards was a great achievement for Evergreen Landcare, says managing director, Hamish Cunningham.

“We were thrilled to become Rotorua Business of the Year, an award that is testament to the joint efforts of our entire team.”

The land restoration, improvement, and erosion control specialists also took out the Holland Beckett Manufacturing & Trade Business Award at the October event, which was attended by around 500 people.

Judges said the company was “making a name throughout New Zealand” with its passion for the land and delivery of a range of quality solutions, often for environmentally sensitive projects.

Hamish Cunningham and his wife Sally have grown Evergreen Landcare around five-fold since they took over the business in 2003.

At the time the firm specialised in hydroseeding, and had just two trucks, two permanent staff and one casual employee.

Today Evergreen Landcare employs up to 40 people during peak seasons from its Rotorua head office and has branches in Christchurch, Auckland and Taupo.

It has a wide range of equipment allowing it to complete everything from the smallest domestic work to large commercial, environmental and land restoration projects.

“We could see a lot of growth potential in the environmental market as no one wants to see a big scar on a hill or sediment going into the waterways.

“Since taking over the business we have introduced a much wider range of services which includes site stabilisation, straw mulching, erosion control, and re-vegetation, as well as domestic and commercial landscaping.”

The addition of the couple’s son Ben to the team in late 2010 has also played a major part in the firm’s development, he says.

“Ben has a good business head and brings a valuable mix of practical and theoretical knowledge to the company.

Client liaison is a major part of his role, and as general manager he is also responsible for the continued expansion and development of the business, and improving its operating systems.”

The company now services projects nationwide.

In the North Island it does a significant amount of work on new roading and subdivision projects, providing sediment control, re-grassing, revegetation and landscaping services.

“Straw mulching is a big part of our work, particularly for large subdivisions in Auckland where sites are largely shut down over the winter period. Straw mulch prevents around 97 percent of sediment run-off on work sites and is applied by large blower machines.”

Evergreen Landcare moved into the South Island market around nine years ago, when Hamish Cunningham literally jumped in his ute and visited as many contractors and councils as he could.

“We got a small opening and away we went. We now have 10 staff based in Christchurch plus our managers. Since the earthquakes the landscaping side of the business has grown there significantly.”

Assisting with mine rehabilitation works is another area of speciality for the company.

It has also released a number of erosion

Evergreen Landcare does everything from the smallest domestic work to large commercial, environmental and land restoration projects. control products to the market, which have been specifically adapted to New Zealand conditions.

The family-owned firm is set up around core values of innovation, sustainability, unity, dependability and enduring relationships, says Cunningham.

“Running the business with family values is very important to us.

“Our staff, especially in the North Island can be

away from their families a lot during the week, so we try not to work weekends.”

The firm continues to enjoy strong growth, and the Cunningham’s haven’t finished yet.

“We want to increase our product offering and emulate the landscaping work we’re doing in Christchurch in the Auckland market.

“We still have some big, audacious goals to achieve.”

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46 |

MANUFACTURING » Juken New Zealand

February 2015

Business North

Forests the key to product success Karen Phelps Growing its own plantations enables Juken New Zealand Ltd to produce top quality products with control over every aspect of the process, says Juken New Zealand Ltd corporate sales and marketing manager Rahul Chopra.

“Proper forest management is the key to producing the right trees for making the right products,” says Chopra.

“We take pride in the way we manage and take care of our forests from land preparation, seed selection and planting to disease and pest control, thinning, pruning, and harvesting.

“It’s a deliberate, methodical and continuous process to ensure that the product requirements of customers are met.”

Juken New Zealand manufactures a range of engineered wood and solid wood products used for structural and non-structural purposes, for external or internal uses and for appearance or non-appearance finishes.

The company has been operating in New Zealand for more than 20 years primarily exporting to Japan, it now has its sights set on growing its presence in the New Zealand and other international markets. It already exports

Proud to be associated with Juken NZ Ltd

to Australia and to various Southeast Asian countries.

The company has 35,000 hectares of planted forests in the East Coast and Wairarapa.

The forests are located close to Juken New Zealand’s mill operations ensuring freshly cut logs can be efficiently delivered for processing with minimal damage to the logs.

Chopra says Juken NZ differs from its competition in that it operates on a 30-year rotational cycle instead of harvesting trees earlier.

“This ensures the product is as tough and durable as it can be. Within this cycle we adjust tree stocking rates and silviculture regimes to ensure that we end up with wood that is true, that is stable, that looks good and that is well-suited to the high quality products that we make.”

Two of the company’s flagship products are J-Frame and Triboard.

J-Frame is a structural laminated veneer lumber gauged framing timber made from 100% renewable radiata pine plantation forest.

Because it is a reliable straight and durable product, J-Frame can be used in a wide range of applications including residential and commercial framing and truss systems, says Chopra.

Triboard is a three layered panel with a wood strand core sandwiched between MDF. Chopra says that the result is a clean-lined panel that has high resilience, impact resistence and stiffness.

“The combination of smooth surfaces with inner strength makes it ideal for a wide range of internal structural and non-structural applications.

“When Triboard is used for internal walls the reduction in thickness compared to traditional wall construction can provide up to 6% more useable space in an average size three-bedroom house so it is proving increasingly popular in New Zealand as more people become familiar with the product.”

Chopra says the company will continue to grow its global outreach focusing on meeting customer demand assisted by its complete control over its manufacturing process.

“Although our range of products is wide and varied we are not limited to off-the-shelf solutions.

“If a customer cannot find what they are looking for in our current range then we also offer custom-made options to suit their exact needs.

“Such requests fit comfortably with the Juken philosophy and because Juken own the process from start to finish we can always try to meet our customers’ needs no matter what they may be.”

J-Frame is a structural laminated veneer lumber gauged framing timber made from 100% renewable radiata pine plantation forest.

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TRANSPORT » Kings Transport and Logistics

Business North February 2015

| 47

Outsourcing transport makes sense Karen Phelps Recognising a need in the market for a dedicated permanent vehicle solution has led Kings Transport and Logistics to become market leaders in this area, says Kings New Zealand sales manager Kyle Donegan.

The company supplies dedicated vehicles and drivers for companies who might require transport services from just a few hours a day to a full time service.

Donegan says there are many benefits for companies in outsourcing this service rather than having to maintain their own fleet and drivers.

“There are a lot of things that have to be taken into consideration in the transport industry – insurance, health and safety, driver training, staff wages, vehicle maintenance and registration to name but a few.

“We take all the hassle of this over for our customers and all they have to do is pay an hourly rate for the service.”

Kings now supplies over 500 dedicated permanent vehicles to a variety of industries throughout Australia and New Zealand including many blue chip companies.

Donegan says that Kings customers also benefit from knowing that the company has many years of experience in the industry and is familiar with all legislative requirements.

Dedicated vehicles can be sign written with the company brand. Using the Kings dedicated permanent vehicle solution also helps improve cash flow for clients allowing them to focus on their own business, says Donegan.

He says that companies also benefit from the latest technology.

“All of our dedicated vehicles are equipped with the latest in technology as well as GPS allowing our clients to view their vehicle in real time.

“Our drivers are also fitted with the latest in PDAs allowing for signature capture at delivery providing point of delivery in real time,” says Donegan.

The Kings Group was started in 1991 in Australia and now employs more than 800 staff and engages over 1800 subcontracted drivers.

Kings Transport and Logistics supplies vehicles to a variety of industries throughout New Zealand.

Kings entered the New Zealand market in 2009 and specialises in the Auckland metropolitan urgent on demand courier market.

The company also offers 3PL warehousing and distribution, permanent vehicle placement and company owned equipment solutions.

Donegan says that Kings has established itself as a market leader in health and safety.

The company won the Steel Transport Safety

“All of our dedicated vehicles are equipped with the latest in technology as well as GPS allowing our clients to view their vehicle in real time.”

Network most outstanding contractor to the steel industry award for 2013/14, the highest possible honour given out by the network. Kings was highly commended for its investment in training at the 2014 Transport & Logistics Industry Skills Council Awards for Excellence.

Donegan says a key factor in the company winning such accolades is its innovative safety video training series.

“This series was developed by Kings and allows drivers to download and watch safety videos on their phone or other electronic device any time, anywhere.

“This means if someone is on a site for example and needs to refresh themselves about some safety aspect they can do so quickly and easily.”

He says that the Kings group is committed to

improve safety by fostering a strong safety culture in which people value workplace safety above all else. “We have a goal to be the leaders in safety in the transport and logistics, warehousing and building logistics management industries.

“We are committed to delivering zero unsafe workplaces, unsafe work practices and injuries by continuous communications, setting higher standards, consulting with our people, managing our risks, regularly monitoring progress towards our safety objectives and being accountable for safety.

“It is just one example of Kings’ commitment to excellence, which ensures that our clients can focus their attention on their own business needs rather than spending valuable time and resources on their transport.”

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48 |

TRANSPORT » NZ Trucking Association

February 2015

Business North

Association offers plenty of benefits Kelly Deeks When you are involved in a transport business, you’re a busy person. Keeping up compliance is one thing - understanding it can be another.

Knowing whether the contract you have just been given is going to be sustainable and profitable is quite a worry.

Located in Christchurch, the NZ Trucking Association has a wealth of knowledge, with CEO Dave Boyce having spent many years running his own transport business.

“We all have significant business backgrounds and can help or advise our members on any issue,” he says. “If we don’t know the answer, we do know who does and that can save a hardworking transport operator a lot of valuable time.”

The NZ Trucking Association’s cost models are detailed and can assist members who are looking for finance for a new vehicle.

Boyce says taking into account the contract and vehicle, NZ Trucking Association cost models will show in black and white whether everything lines up to be sustainable and profitable.

“The cost models are free and independent, and have been extremely helpful to some members when they need to go back and negotiate for a better rate. For members this service is free.

“While we can’t solve every issue, we certainly are active in various community and agency groups, such as road safety, cycle safety, and other forums that are connected to transport in some way,” Boyce says.

“While our members run their businesses, we go out and make sure we have our say before any adverse decisions are made that might affect our members’ businesses.”

Boyce says that buying schemes are another huge advantage for members of the association.

Fuel schemes give members cheaper fuel, and considering fuel is usually one of the biggest costs

Plenty of big rigs were on display at the Trucking 2014 event held in Christchurch. of a transport business, this is another very good reason to join. Other bulk arrangements include tyres, insurance, and this year there are more deals and discounts available for members.

The association has members throughout New Zealand, and t represents anyone who operates a vehicle for their business, from small self-employed trades people to large transport operators.

In October last year the Association organised the Trucking 2014 event at Wigram Air Force Museum in Christchurch.

This was well attended with over 10,000 people coming through to have a look at what’s new from the 84 trade exhibitors.

“More than 269 large working trucks travelled from all over New Zealand to line up alongside each other, which showed they had more bling and shine than a large jewellery shop,” Boyce says.

“The show gave us the opportunity to give something back to the community. All proceeds of donations were given to Ronald McDonald House and Child Cancer Canterbury.”

NZ Trucking Association also worked with Can and Spokes to create a hands on safety demonstration at Trucking 2014 to promote sharing the road safely. Truck drivers got to jump on a bike and see the issues from the cyclist’s point of view, and the cyclists got the chance to jump in a truck and see what the truck driver sees.

“This was a light bulb moment for most people who took part. Sitting in a large truck it is impossible in some situations to see a cyclist who may just ride up beside a truck at an intersection.”

Jimmy - ex Heat Exchanger Services can now be found here!

We are able to Service all types and sizes of Heat Exchangers and specialise in heavy duty radiators, intercoolers and oil coolers for mining, earth moving, marine, industrial and transport applications.

Aluminium Oil Cooler, Intercooler and Radiator Specialists Industrial Radiators carry many makes of top quality radiators and intercoolers on the shelf. We can offer an exchange service to minimise “down-time” for those customers who are unable to wait for a repair to be done.

James’s knowledge ensures the correct identification of the unit you require.

I have been a customer with James ever since he became established in NZ. In 1998 there was no one who could manage the size of radiators we have in the mining industry nor was anyone able or willing to turn them around in the same time frame as it took to change an engine out. I have been impressed with his ‘can do’ attitude & his ability to work within the tightest schedules & delivery times... even to the point of direct delivery to site if transport is going to be a problem. I have not experienced any deficiency in work quality nor required any re-work where Industrial Radiators have been involved & will continue to utilise & support their services for this industry.

Cliff Webb, Group Maintenance Manager, OGL (NZ) Ltd

40 Hands Road, Middleton, Christchurch 8024 Ph: (03) 338 8016 | Fax: (03) 338 8017 | Email: jimmy@industrialradiators.co.nz

www.industrialradiators.co.nz

Best seat in the house

Running a successful business ra ing its 25th rat celebrat tr rdon’s mantra r, Gorrdon yearr, rt’. sma it is ‘do

N IMAGES SUPPLIED WORDS BY RACHEL MIDDLETO

G

eemac Trading (NZ) Limited will be celebrating its silver anniversary this year, after 25 years seating truck, bus, and rail drivers around the country in cost-effective, high-end comfort.

Director and owner Gordon McKendry and wife Jan started Geemac in 1989, operating out of their garage supplying heaters and demisters to the bus and coach industry.

Quickly expanding to cover all body components, from the front of the bus to the back, Gordon and Jan built Geemac to supply the highest quality European products to the market — from electronic information systems (the destination signs on the front of

Geemac owner and director Gordon McKendry’s second office

the bus) right down to the little push-buttons you push to get off the bus.

The biggest part of the business these however, is supplying high-end days, howeve Isringhausen (ISRI) seats and parts as the sole New Zealand agent. ISRI is the biggest global supplier of high-end seats, with 80 percent market share in Europe. “The German quality of the Eu seat surpasses all other brands combined, and ISRI is the most specified OEM seat brand in the world,” says Gordon.

Geemac’s Geemac warehouse, located in West Auckland, houses all the stock W brought in from Germany.

As with all imported product, spare parts become vitally important and Geemac supplies these as well, taking care of aftermarket service for the OEM. “We can have whatever the customer requires out in a day or two,” says Gordon.

“We’ve got $70,000 to $80,000 at cost in spare parts sitting in the warehouse ready to support the ISRI product.”

With only three people running this busy and large scale operation (Gordon, Jan, and storeman Robin Tong (RT) in the warehouse), Gordon says the growth has been controlled and steady, with a lot of hard work and chipping away over 25 years — which was exactly what they planned.

“Although, if the company keeps growing the way it has, the warehouse will need to expand upwards,” says Gordon. “It’s always too small when a container comes in.”

Geemac sells to OEM reps such as Isuzu, Scania, and Daimler-Chrysler, as well as fleet operators and individual owners. Gordon tells of one major trucking company purchasing 70 vehicles and removing all of the (competitor) seats. The company immediately called Geemac and specified ISRI seats. “That’s the reality of ISRI’s reputation,” says Gordon.

He goes on to explain that the number one problem facing the trucking seat industry is the lack of maintenance seen. “The most important thing in your operation is the driver. The second is the seat. Trucks are serviced regularly but seats are most often overlooked,” he says.

“These trucks travel hundreds of thousands of kilometres and operators have the oil and brakes changed and serviced like

clockwork. But companies never look at a seat until it’s broken.

“No one wants to pay for downtime to repair a seat. A company will have 40 trucks but have no spare seats. It’s a global phenomenon.”

The objective of the seat is to keep the driver in mid-ride position and the air suspension seats take the vibration out of the road. Seats are so sophisticated these days, the seat ride can be made hard or soft with the push of a button to suit road conditions. Drivers are seated for 12 hours of the day and the suspension on some trucks is so firm that if the seat isn’t functioning properly, it spells a lot of health problems for the driver.

ISRI offers an online program to enable Geemac to increase its rate of customer service and in turn, decrease driver problems.

“It’s so simple. We just pick out the truck model, download the specs sheet and prices,

d email it off f to the ff h customer. O and Once they’ve h y’v chosen, that particular information is emailed to the storeman and it’s processed in the warehouse,” says Gordon. “As long as it’s ordered before 2pm, it’s same-day dispatch.”

And it’s the truth — during my visit Gordon answers around five sales calls and ends each one with: “We’ll have that out to you today”.

Running a successful business celebrating its 25th year, Gordon’s mantra is ‘do it smart’.

“We only ever wanted the highest quality share of the market,” he says. “So many new companies swoop in and heavily discount product in an effort to cover the entire market and quality gets confused.

“Geemac stock is 99-percent high-end European products. This means we stay in business and also enjoy a huge market share.

“We certainly don’t supply the highest volume of seats but we definitely have the best quality of clients.”

Isringhausen leads the way in the application of modern technology to driver’s seating.

ISRI has a full range of driver’s seats to suit every application.

Note: Seat fabric may vary from what is shown. Armrests and head restraints are optional accessories.

Protect your back and reduce driver fatigue CALL US NOW!

ISRI 6860/875 NTS

ISRI 6800/337 PRO

ISRI 6860/880 NTS

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Automatic Self Levelling Air Suspension Seat Integrated 3-Point Seat Belt Head Restraint Included

Automatic Self Levelling NTS Air Suspension Seat, Armrests & Head Restraint Optional Extras

Geemac Trading (NZ) Limited.

Phone (09) 630 1856 or Fax (09) 630 1855 email: sales@geemac.co.nz www.geemac.co.nz

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The World’s Best Driver’s Seat

50 |

CONTRACTING » Boart Longyear

February 2015 Business North

Focus switches to minerals sector Karen Phelps Boart Longyear has changed its focus in the New Zealand market since the global economic downturn to focus on expansion in the minerals sector specifically the underground.

The company presently holds two significant contracts completing drilling work for Newmont Waihi Gold’s Martha and Correnso mines, drilling horizontal production and exploration holes.

The company also holds contracts with OceanaGold Corporation at the Macraes.

“We bring 125 years of experience and can offer a diverse range of underground drilling services tailored to meet clients’ needs,” says Boart Longyear New Zealand operations manager Greg Skerten.

One key factor in the company’s success in the industry has been the introduction of new technology to the mining sector capable of improving costs, productivity and safety.

One example is the company’s introduction of rod handlers to Waihi, which has reduced the exposure of drillers to the manual handling of rods, leading to a lower incidence of hand injuries, says Skerten.

Another innovation is the development of the Drill Control Interface (DCi) to increase the efficiency, productivity and safety of the LM series of underground diamond core drill rigs.

“When you have hole depth of 500+ metres, the DCi allows us to continue drilling during crib breaks and shift changeover.

“This is possible because the DCi incorporates a PLC system where a supervisor can pre-set parameters for drilling. These parameters create a semi-autonomous drill system allowing the LM rig to achieve a three meter run in the absence of a driller.”

Skerten says that the DCi PLC system results in fewer hoses, fewer leaks and less clutter around the drill.

“A supervisor can set drilling parameters for inexperienced operators, and an auto shutdown will occur when a drill run ends or programmed parameters are exceeded.

“A laser proximity can also shut down the rig when breached - keeping drillers at a safe distance at all times.

“A fully electronic user interface means the DCi has a lighter and more portable control cabinet compared to hydraulic controls, resulting

Boart Longyear holds two significant contracts completing drilling work for Newmont Waihi Gold’s Martha and Correnso mines.

in a 50 kilogram weight difference, while the limited number of components allows drillers to move the unit easier and faster. There are only three plugs to disconnect from the DCi and no hydraulic hoses.”

Another feature includes real-time key performance data that is recorded, stored and easily downloaded for quick analysis, allowing drillers to make adjustments to the drill rig on the go. Modular rigs and mobile platform make it efficient for drill crews to move from site to site and significantly improves the safety, flexibility, mobility, and productivity at the drill sites, says Skerten.

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“We have professionally trained crews with in-depth underground and surface drilling experience. We are proud of our safety training, something that has always been a focus for the company.”

As the PLC allows one push of a button for unattended drilling, by drilling within the pre-set parameters set by a supervisor the LM rigs can achieve greater equipment life and greater productivity from inexperienced drillers, he says.

The DCi units have been such a success that the technology will be introduced across all rigs at the Waihi site next year.

The Boart Longyear Global Drilling Services division operates in over 40 countries for a diverse mining customer base spanning a wide range of commodities, including copper, gold, nickel, zinc, uranium, and other metals and minerals.

The Global Products division designs, manufactures and sells drilling equipment, performance tooling, and aftermarket parts and services to customers in more than 100 countries.

Skerten says that there is significant activity in the Asia Pacific region with over 80 rigs operating and more than 1000 employees.

The company has a presence in energy, mine de-watering, mineral exploration and production drilling.

Skerten says that Boart Longyear recognises that safety is paramount to both its employees and to its customers and is critical to its customers’ success.

“We have professionally trained crews with in-depth underground and surface drilling experience.

“We are proud of our safety training, something that has always been a focus for the company.

“Boart Longyear has achieved seven years Lost Time Injury Free status in New Zealand.

“Our safety standards, programs, and processes enable drillers to maximize their productivity without compromising their wellbeing and health.

“We are proud of our drilling innovations and strive to exceed client expectations when it comes to safe operations.”

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Business North February 2015

CONTRACTING » Boart Longyear

| 51

Boart Longyear has introduced new technology to the mining sector capable of improving costs, productivity and safety.

Fire protection crucial for expensive mine equipment Protecting mining equipment from fire could save companies millions of dollars, says Steve Benseman from Fire Suppression Systems.

“If companies have a complete burn-out of one of their key pieces of equipment, it could be out of action for up to a year which would cost them an awful lot of money.”

Benseman says the lead time to replace highly specialised mining and construction equipment is currently around 50 weeks from when an order is placed to when it arrives in New Zealand.

“That’s why it is imperative companies protect their existing machinery as the combination of large amounts of fuel, hydraulic oil, extremely hot surfaces and electrical components create an operating environment with an inherently high fire risk.”

Benseman has 13 years experience in advising, installing and maintaining fire suppression systems at New Zealand mine sites.

He says it is important companies deal with a specialist such as Fire Suppression Systems to ensure their systems meet the testing and certified standards required of the industry.

“Some of our competitors dabble in fire suppression work outside their core business, but I believe we’re the only company in New Zealand to focus solely on mobile equipment fire suppression.”

Fire Suppression Systems offers a full range of systems for the mining, construction, drilling, forestry and mobile equipment industries.

Benseman is based in Auckland and employs three mobile technicians who operate from other parts of the country.

Between them they visit clients’ often remote sites in fully set-up vehicles that enable them to provide complete equipment install, maintenance and servicing on-site.

We pride ourselves

A full range of fire suppression systems for the following surface and underground applications:

• Mining / Resource Industries • Construction • Drilling • Forestry • Mobile Equipment

on delivering reliable, proven products that give our customers peace of mind ....”

The expert team can also provide clients with advice on preventative measures and maintenance practices they can undertake to further reduce fire risk.

Benseman is the New Zealand agent for foam fire suppression system Sandvik NFP 1000. Around 18,000 Sandvik systems are now being used worldwide, he says.

The system is fully compliant with the new Australian standard AS5062.

A key feature is that it is completely selfcontained so even if there is no electricity or person to operate the system it will still activate in the event of an emergency.

Benseman says Fire Suppression Systems recently installed fire suppression systems to 115 machines for the Downer/Solid Energy Stockton Alliance on the West Coast, its biggest single install to date.

“We continue to look after every other major mine in the country.

“We pride ourselves on delivering reliable, proven products that give our customers peace of mind that their equipment and staff will be protected should a fire incident occur.”

Fire Suppresion Systems P.O. Box 334081 Sunnynook, Auckland Steve Benseman Ph: 021 918 900, E-mail: sbenseman@clear.net.nz

52 |

BUSINESS SERVICES » Dyno

February 2015 Business North

Targeting a more efficient workplace Karen Phelps Businesses are always looking for opportunities to make their business work smarter, increase efficiency, reduce costs and streamline processes.

Scott McLean from Dyno says that the free operational efficiency audits offered by Dyno invariably reveal opportunities to achieve gains in these key areas.

“Changes can be small and low cost but help businesses considerably,” he says.

Although Dyno specialises in the design, manufacture and supply of conveyor systems and components the company takes a multi-faceted approach to the audits and works alongside automation companies to achieve this.

“It may not be the actual conveyor system that can be improved. It could also involve other facets of the business such as how a business is operating, the setup of the system, labour etc.

“We often find that things have changed in a company over time, for example expansion, but their system has not kept up with these changes so they are no longer operating at peak efficiency levels,” explains McLean.

The company provides customers with outcomes resulting from audits including capital expenditure of recommendations and savings that could be achieved if they are implemented.

McLean says this is important so that customers can see the exact results that could be gained and why.

“For example replacing a piece of machinery might result in reduced downtime and maintenance, which saves money long-term.

“Increasing productivity could mean one less labour unit is needed.

“We can show our customers what the different outcomes might be.”

Dyno is a New Zealand-owned and operated company started over 25 years ago with offices in Invercargill, Auckland and Canterbury.

Based in Invercargill it supplies products and solutions nationwide and internationally.

The company has its own range of products, which can be customised to suit customers’ specific needs.

It can also design and manu-facture solutions from scratch ranging from small specialist bearings, conveyor rollers, and powered conveyors to full custom turn-key systems.

McLean says on-going research and development is an important focus for the company.

“This ensures that we remain at the forefront of the industry. The fine-tuning of our existing products and our ability to design and manufacture new products means that out range is ever expanding,” he says.

At the moment one new product that the company is developing due to customer demand

Dyno specialises in the design, manufacture and supply of conveyor systems and components, as well as doing operational audits.

“The fine-tuning of our existing products and our ability to design and manufacture new products means that out range is ever expanding. is a portable trough belt conveyor for use on difficult to access sites.

“It’s under trial at the moment and being tested on sites. It should be ready to release to the market in about six months,” says McLean.

Rapid development of products is one advantage the company has in the market place, he says, with development times as little as six to twelve months depending on the product.

“Because we are not a large corporate company we can move quickly,” he says.

One recent new product released to the market is the Dynoglide 600, a non-lubricated conveyor chain system. Combined with the company’s

Dyno UltraSlip on a conveyor, “huge energy savings” of close to 60 percent can be achieved, says McLean.

Other key advantages of the product include longer life and lower maintenance requirements as well as being a cleaner system with no need for lubrication – which is a key factor for companies that require a clean environment.

McLean says the innovation hinges on the material the product is made from.

“We worked with a raw materials manufacturer to change the chemical properties of the material to result in a more efficient product.

“The Dynoglide 600 is very low friction while still retaining its strength meaning a new innovation for the marketplace and is just one example of the innovative approach we take in all aspects of the business.”

Specialists in the manufacture of extruded plastic tubing, piping and profiles

Moving forward with Dyno

Are you Aware There is a New Law Covering Health & Safety?

Do you have good H&S systems?

Do you need good independent advice?

Contact Securo on 0800 55 33 44, or email secteam@securo.co.nz to discuss how our Systems & Safety Consultants could assist you.

www.securo.co.nz One of Dyno’s recent new products is the Dynoglide 600, a non-lubricated conveyor chain system.