Business South - December 2012 by Waterford Press Limited

December 2012

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The new terminal at Christchurch International Airport stunningly lit-up to greet travellers.

Christchurch Airport gets thumbs up from travellers The redevelopment of Christchurch International Airport has helped the facility to be voted as the 2012 International Airport of the Year by readers of a leading New Zealand travel industry magazine. Airport Chief Executive Jim Boult says he is delighted by the award from the readers of Travel Digest. “Those of us close to the airport think it’s a very special place and it seems travellers agree,” he says.

INSIDE

“We are running both an airport and a construction zone at the moment while we complete development of the new terminal, so it’s reassuring to have travellers see past the construction and appreciate what we are building.” The Integrated Terminal Project accounted for $28.2m of the company’s total capital expenditure of $63m in its latest financial year. The development is due to be completed in March next year, and Boult said it was expected

Queenstown conference centre plans - PAGE 2

to come in within one to two per cent of the budget set in 2008. Despite difficult trading conditions, Christchurch International Airport Limited (CIAL) – which is 75% percent owned by Christchurch City Council offshoot, Christchurch City Holdings - has reported an after-tax profit of $19.6 million in its latest year. Boult said the result, for the year to June 30, was a reflection of “very satisfactory” returns from the company’s commercial operations,

More innovation from EziBuy - PAGE 3

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Migrant workers aid rebuild - PAGE 4

although “the events of the past two years have inevitably taken a toll on passenger numbers” Compared to the year ended June 30 2010, the last full financial year before earthquakes, CIAL has lost 448,814 passengers. “The loss of 7.5 percent of our passenger base since the 2010 financial year has cost the company revenue from a number of sources associated with passenger throughput, in particular terminal concessions and car parking,” said Boult.

Success for Synlait Milk - PAGE 28

December 2012

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Business South / December 2012

Signature Homes - Canterbury 8-page liftout inside

The new terminal at Christchurch International Airport stunningly lit-up to greet travellers.

Christchurch Airport gets thumbs up from travellers The redevelopment of Christchurch International Airport has helped the facility to be voted as the 2012 International Airport of the Year by readers of New Zealand’s leading travel industry magazine. Airport Chief Executive Jim Boult says he is delighted by the award from the readers of the Travel Today magazine. “Those of us close to the airport think it’s a very special place and it seems travellers agree,” he says.

INSIDE

Queenstown conference centre plans - PAGE 2

to come in within one to two per cent of the budget set in 2008. Despite difficult trading conditions, Christchurch International Airport Limited (CIAL) – which is 75% percent owned by City Council offshoot, Christchurch City Holdings - has reported an after-tax profit of $19.6 million in its latest year. Boult said the result, for the year to June 30, was a reflection of very satisfactory returns from the company’s commercial operations, although

More innovation from EziBuy - PAGE 3

“the events of the past two years have inevitably taken a toll on passenger numbers” Compared to the year ended June 30 2010, the last full financial year before earthquakes, CIAL has lost 448,814 passengers. “The loss of 7.5 percent of our passenger base since the 2010 financial year has cost the company revenue from a number of sources associated with passenger throughput, in particular terminal concessions and car parking.”

Migrant workers aid rebuild - PAGE 4

Success for Synlait Milk - PAGE 28

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Jewel in the crown: Queenstown’s stunning scenery is a magnet for tourists.

Conference centre progress Karen Phelps Plans for a new conference centre in Queenstown are gathering steam. Requests for Proposal (RFP) for the proposed centre have just closed with the Queenstown Lakes District Council and Queenstown Mayor Vanessa van Uden says there has been a great deal of interest from within New Zealand and overseas. Although the idea of a dedicated conference centre has been informally discussed for some time it was a comment from the Prime Minister suggesting the idea again that reignited the issue. “We get a lot of conferences in Queenstown now but the larger ones struggle to find a venue big enough to accommodate their needs,” says van Uden. “The hotels do a good job catering to conferences but for larger groups they often have to have displays in places such as basements and car parks. “We need to deliver a high level of service to conferences and believe there is much more opportunity out there to cater to larger conferences. It’s about having another string to our bow in terms of what we can offer.” She says the a new conference centre will also springboard off the extensive work that has already been undertaken to promote Queenstown as a tourist destination outside the peak summer and winter seasons. The city’s tourist organisation Destination Queenstown has a dedicated section called the Conference and In-Centre Bureau dedicated to promoting Queenstown as a conference destination. Queenstown attracts both national and international conferences. “People really like the idea of coming to Queenstown for a conference because there are lots of options to suit different people from adventure activities to places to relax. But we need to be able to meet their needs rather than having a limit on the

Vanessa van Uden size of conference we can comfortably cater to. This is limiting our potential market.” The proposed new conference centre has been mooted by a voluntary group from the community and will be able to cater to conferences up to 800 delegates. The RFP asked for those submitting proposals to identify potential locations for the centre and has also stipulated a desire for flexibility in the space to cater to conferences of all sizes. It has also gave those submitting proposals the opportunity to identify funding options and investment partnerships to help the conference centre to become a reality. Van Uden says the council will select the preferred RFP by June and identify a way forward in the next financial year. In a feasibility study survey undertaken of the local business community nearly 85% of respondents agreed that Queenstown was losing

“The conference centre will ensure visitors are coming to Queenstown year-round and mean we won’t have all our eggs in one basket in terms of mainly relying on recreational tourism.

potential visitors because existing facilities were inadequate to meet demand. Over 90% felt that if a new dedicated conference centre was built the number and size of conferences would increase. “The conference centre will benefit both the business community and, indirectly, the whole local community,” says van Uden. “There will not be many people living in Queenstown who are not in some way affected directly or indirectly by more visitors coming here to spend money. “It will ensure visitors are coming to Queenstown year-round and mean we won’t have all our eggs in one basket in terms of mainly relying on recreational tourism. “It will mean business will be spread over the year giving local businesses more certainty. We revolve as an economy around visitors so by offering better choices to those visitors we will all be better off as a community. “I really hope we can get this to happen. It’s been talked about for a long time and I want to think that we can now get ourselves to the point where the talking stops and we do something. It’s a real economic opportunity for Queenstown.”

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Business South / December 2012

Another innovation from EziBuy “There is no doubt online sales are growing but there is

Jo Bailey A new “drop ship” arrangement with UK fashion brand Next is the latest innovation from EziBuy, the New Zealand multi-channel retail success story. EziBuy chief executive Simon West says the agreement with Next has seen EziBuy offer selected products via both its online and catalogue business in New Zealand and Australia, with stock delivered directly from Next in the United Kingdom. “This is the first partnership in apparel I’m aware of to utilise online shopping in this way,” says West. “The arrangement provides Next with access to our long-established customer base in Australasia and allows EziBuy to provide a well-priced, international fashion product to our customers in less than a week without having to hold a large amount of stock in New Zealand.” The arrangement with Next includes childrenswear, the first time these products have been offered directly through EziBuy’s retail channels. West says a big advantage for customers ordering Next products through EziBuy is the company’s 30-day “money-back” guarantee and free delivery on exchange, handled via its “state-ofthe-art” distribution centre in Palmerston North. “Return rates for online shopping can be as high as 30 percent so having local returns for international products is quite a big deal. “It would probably cost between $20 to $40 for customers to return a garment to the UK if they were doing it themselves.” West says the deal with Next is “significant” as it is a shift from EziBuy’s traditional wholesale

Synlait records solid profit in latest year Canterbury milk nutrition company Synlait Milk has posted a $6.3 million profit after tax for the year ending July 31, 2012. The company had a turnover of $377m in its fourth year of operation, an increase of $78m on the previous year, driven primarily by substantial growth in its milk powder ingredients business. Chief Executive, Dr John Penno says the development of the company’s new adult and infant nutritionals business holds exciting prospects for the future, however it has been its value added and consumer ready milk powders business that delivered the strong financial result last year. “We were very pleased to achieve a solid profit while providing a very competitive milk price to our milk supply partners,” said Penno. “It is even more pleasing that this came about in a year when our volume of ingredient powders has grown by 50 percent, and we were commissioning our new infant formula capable drier,” he said. The company paid its milk suppliers a total average milk price of $6.22/kg MS. The company’s milk volume grew from 343m litres in 2011 to 498m litres in 2012, with 40 new farms being contracted for supply. The additional milk processed lifted manufactured volumes from 54,414 metric tonnes in 2011 to 81,398 metric tonnes in 2012. In 2012 Synlait Milk expanded its operation to include a purpose-built infant formula plant. The company also upgraded its existing spray drier to allow for the production of growing up milk powders, and its special milks drier was upgraded to produce high-value milk protein concentrate. “We remain committed to our strategy of developing our value-added and nutritional milk powder business, and building a reputation for quality and technical excellence,” said Penno. “Current performance confirms our view that the margins provided in these demanding market segments will be critical to Synlait Milk’s future.”

• Success recognised - page 28

still plenty of reasons and advantages for us to continue with our catalogue market.”

Simon West relationship with other international brands where it physically purchases, imports and distributes stock to its customers. “We plan to develop this type of arrangement with more partners and are already in discussions with a couple of other large international retailers.” Leading the way in new retail innovations is nothing new for EziBuy, which started as a small mail order catalogue company in Palmerston North in 1978 and has grown to become a household name on both sides of the Tasman. The company was founded by brothers Peter and Gerard Gillespie and John Robinson, who

produced their first catalogue of women’s fashion in black and white on a sheet of A3 folded paper that was mailed to a list of organisations and clubs sourced from the telephone book. Today the Gillespies still own more than half of the company - now the largest fashion and home decor multi-channel retailer in Australasia. Around 20,000 items are currently sold each day via EziBuy’s four retail channels - mail order, telephone sales, online shopping and retail stores. Part of the company’s success lies with its willingness to adopt new technologies and sales channels at an early stage. EziBuy was an early pioneer of online retailing, setting up its first internet site in 1998. Over the last five years this channel has been its fastest-growing with a 50 per cent increase in sales. This surprisingly, has had little impact on EziBuy’s catalogue market that remains a core part of its business, says West. “Even in the US, which is about five years ahead of Australasia in terms of online shopping, catalogue sales are still growing. People continue to enjoy the experience of simply sitting on the couch and browsing through a catalogue.” He agrees the time will come when tablet and other internet devices will supersede catalogues but believes that is a “long way off” for EziBuy, that produces around 70 catalogues each year.

“There is no doubt online sales are growing but there is still plenty of reasons and advantages for us to continue with our catalogue market.” Retail stores have never been the main focus of the business. It operates just four in New Zealand - in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and in Palmerston North where its 25,000sqm distribution centre, one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, is also based. “We don’t have a strong retail presence as we have always concentrated on growing our direct business first.” West has been at the helm of EziBuy for almost three years. He had a decade of experience in international catalogue and online retail markets before taking on the position. “I remember my mother and sister shopping at EziBuy when I was growing up so it’s been great to come back to New Zealand to lead the company,” he says. “It has evolved considerably over almost 35 years but retains the family values and principles of honesty, integrity and trust on which it was built.” “We are confident the goals we have put in place will be reached. “EziBuy has enjoyed good growth of more than 10 per cent per year over the past decade and we expect that to increase with the addition of new and exciting labels like Next into the EziBuy family.”

The taxing of employees on the move It is not uncommon for employees to have to spend time away from home for work reasons. As the time away is work related, an employee would generally expect their employer to pay for accommodation and other out of pocket expenses. The Inland Revenue have been having a look at this and have decided that they are missing out on some tax. The position understood and applied by taxpayers and advisors for quite some time has been that where an employee is maintaining a home in another location, the market value of the benefit of the accommodation is nil, as there is no ‘net benefit’ - and therefore no tax is payable. The Inland Revenue’s position is that accommodation related payments made by an employer in respect of employees are considered taxable income of the employee and PAYE should be deducted, except in certain limited circumstances relating to temporary overnight stays or relocation. The Commissioner of Inland Revenue has issued a statement setting out her position on the treatment of accommodation related expenditure incurred by employers in connection with employees. This announcement from Inland Revenue is a fundamental shift in approach and is contrary to past guidance previously issued by the Inland Revenue which supported the “net benefit” approach above. The Inland Revenue did withdraw its previous guidance in September 1998, but this guidance has never been replaced and nor has any indication of a contrary position ever been issued. There has therefore been little indication in the intervening 14 years until recently to suggest that the generally accepted position of determining whether or not any benefit arises to the employee was anything but correct. This generally understood position was also confirmed by a Government initiated Rewrite Panel that examines legislation re-writes to ensure they do not inadvertently change the law when it was not intended. Clearly the issuing of this statement now clarifies the Commissioner’s position in terms of the taxability of accommodation from this point onwards, and it would be prudent for employers to consider treating the costs associated with funding

Don MacKenzie

or providing accommodation to employees as taxable going forward, unless incurred as a result of a temporary change of workplace, or relating to the first three months of a permanent relocation. This approach is more onerous than the proposed treatment of accommodation payments outlined in the recently released Officials’ Issues Paper on employee allowances. Of significantly more concern is the indication that this newly released statement serves to confirm a position retrospectively thus giving rise, in the Commissioner’s view, to a need for

employers to consider voluntarily disclosing any prior accommodation costs that have been treated as tax exempt. They are offering the carrot of no penalties or use of money interest for those that do make a voluntary disclosure in certain circumstances. This retrospective application is likely to give rise to significant media attention and opposition by professional bodies and employers alike, and there is likely to be considerable engagement with the Inland Revenue and the Minister of Revenue in this regard before the matter is finalised. The Commissioner’s full statement on this matter can be read on the Inland Revenue’s website. If you or your employees are likely to be impacted by this you should contact your tax advisers as soon as possible to discuss the approach required. Don MacKenzie (Partner - Deloitte)

www.deloitte.co.nz.

CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » News

Business South / December 2012

Migrant workers help with rebuild Jo Bailey Filipino tradesmen are literally “lining up around the block” to work on the Christchurch rebuild, says Rex Gibson, employment consultant of Business Immigration who matches migrant workers with local companies. “They are very keen to come here and see it as a great opportunity for themselves and their families.” He recently returned from a week long visit to Manila where the company’s agents had arranged for him to interview 300 prospective candidates from which he has selected “the cream” for positions with Business Immigration’s Christchurch clients, primarily in the construction sector. “They were queuing outside the building and around the corner waiting to be interviewed. “I was hugely impressed by the level of skill and talent among the candidates, several of whom will soon be working for Christchurch companies.” Gibson doesn’t buy claims that Filipinos and other migrant workers are taking jobs from Kiwis in Christchurch. “I get hacked off when I hear that because that’s not what we’re seeing on the ground. “Of course Christchurch companies would prefer to employ local staff but the resources just aren’t there. “If the workload of your business has doubled overnight and so has your competitors’ – where are you going to find enough skilled staff?” This situation is only going to become more prevalent as the rebuild kicks into gear, which makes taking on migrant workers a “no brainer”, he says. “The Filipino tradesmen we bring in are highly skilled, good workers, clean living, have good English, and are all thoroughly screened as far as their trade qualifications, medical records and police checks are concerned.

Happy painters: Rex Gibson from Business Immigration in Manila with a group of Filipino painters about to leave for Christchurch. “They are here to work and their skills are needed. It’s a win win as far as I can see,” says Gibson. He admits some companies might feel they are “taking a bit of a gamble” by employing staff they have only spoken to over Skype, but says out

of all the migrant workers brought in by Business Immigration so far, only a couple have ended up in labouring roles rather than the more skilled positions they were initially engaged for. Migrant workers brought in by the company for the rebuild so far include builders, engineers, steel and pre-cast concrete workers; and specialists in roading, bridge building, infrastructure and drainage works. “Many already have a lot of international experience which is our preference as it gives them a better understanding of the level of discipline and quality of workmanship required.” The workers enter New Zealand under the Shortage of Skills scheme through New Zealand Immigration, a process Business Immigration works through on its clients’ behalf. “It’s another way we can take pressure off employers who have enough to deal with in the current climate.” Gibson has a few tips for companies interested in employing staff from off-shore.

“Employers need to allow around two or three months from the time we start the process to the arrival of their new staff. “We also recommend only bringing in four or five workers maximum at a time to give both the new and existing staff time to adjust,” says Gibson. Employers are also responsible for arranging the accommodation and transportation for their new migrant employees on arrival until they are settled in and longer term solutions are found, although Business Immigration can also help with this, says Gibson. Unlike some overseas agents, Gibson says Business Immigration is upfront with migrant workers about the conditions they will face in New Zealand, such as the cold winters and higher cost of living. “Our responsibility is to both our clients and the migrant workers. “We work hard to ensure the arrangement is successful for them both and everyone knows that is expected up front.”

Many already have a lot of international experience which is our preference as it gives them a better understanding of the level of discipline and quality of In demand: Filipino tradesmen lined up around the block outside the offices in Manila where Rex Gibson was interviewing prospective workers for the Christchurch rebuild.

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CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » News

Workers fitting in well for Chch company Jo Bailey Lanyon and Le Compte managing director Mark Lanyon has no regrets about taking on migrant workers at the fast-growing Christchurch construction and pre-cast manufacturing company. “We’ve employed five Filipinos and one Romanian who are all highly skilled and keen to work. They have integrated well into the company despite the initial resistance of some of our guys.” Another eight workers from the Philippines and one from Romania will soon join them on the company’s workforce. Lanyon says his existing staff couldn’t understand why he wasn’t taking on more Kiwi workers, but with 100 percent growth in the business since the September earthquake, he was simply struggling to find enough qualified local tradesmen. “We employ a certain number of unskilled people but because our work is quite complex we need a high proportion of skilled staff too. “There are around five pre-cast manufacturers in Christchurch all growing at a similar pace, which has left very few available local guys.” Lanyon says it wasn’t until he was visited onsite by Rex Gibson from Business Immigration a few months ago that he decided to employ some migrant workers. “We were still advertising locally for staff with no luck, so it made sense to give it a go.” Like many others on the staff, Lanyon and Le Compte’s pre-cast manager Dax Lowen says he had reservations about the move. “I thought it was a big call and I knew our guys wouldn’t be too happy about it. But it was like Mark said, ‘who else are we going to get?”

Christchurch construction and pre-cast company Lanyon and Le Compte has been one of many to take on migrant workers to help with the rebuild. Lowen says within a week of the migrants’ arrival, he was convinced employing them was the right decision. “Most are aged in their thirties and already have years of experience in the industry. They are also really committed and haven’t missed one day of work between them since they started.” After around four months on the job, the migrants are now well integrated into the company’s workforce, adds Lanyon. “Our guys changed their attitude once they realised the migrants were keen, hard-working and producing a high quality product.” Christopher Batac from the Philippines says he

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is “very happy” to be working for the Christchurch company after 10 years working in Saudi Arabia and two-and-a-half years in Guam. “The guys here are lovely and honest ...I’m very pleased to work here.” Like many migrant workers he sends a significant amount of money home to his family in the Philippines every month. His English is reasonably good and he has had few problems with cultural differences. “You welcome the Filopino here. The guys are good. Sometimes I have a problem with the language but if the bosses speak slowly I understand.”

Mark Lanyon says the “biggest bonus” of employing the migrants is they have all but eliminated the pressure on the existing staff to work longer hours to meet production targets. Lanyon and Le Compte pick up the tab for accommodating the workers; transporting them to and from work; and providing them with all their protection gear and tools. “Finding accommodation is one of the biggest hassles. We may look at buying some houses until the workers’ accommodation camps are built. “There is an initial investment in time and money required when you bring in workers from offshore but it’s already paying dividends for us.”

CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » Plaster Services

Business South / December 2012

Recreating city’s damaged heritage Jo Bailey Lost pieces of Christchurch heritage destroyed in the earthquakes are being recreated thanks to the expertise of Plastercraft and Plaster Services. Director Gary Watson says the companies work together to recreate and install “pretty much any plaster feature” from ornate cornices, ceiling roses and fire surrounds, to significant plaster features on building facades and exteriors. “It is always our first intention to repair and restore an original feature but if this is not possible we are able to reinstate it sympathetically.” He says the Plastercraft team’s wealth of knowledge and experience in historic and custom work gives them the ability to produce something new from very little. “All we need is a small piece of an existing pattern saved from a building site, or even just a photograph or drawn dimensions to work from.” The expertise of the Christchurch companies is also in demand from the rest of the country, says Watson. “Recently we designed and installed an elaborate banquet hall vaulted ceiling in Auckland. “Combining fibrous plaster and StoSilent acoustic lining, the precast ceiling vaults were manufactured to exacting dimensions and installed within the glass walled ballroom.”

Plastercraft (owned by Watson and Brown & Syme painting contractors), was founded in 1951 but has traded as Plastercraft Southern Ltd under its current ownership since 1999. Plaster Services Ltd (owned by Gary Watson and Adrienne Watson) carries out the installation of the plaster components which are produced by Plastercraft. The companies’ core business varies from highend residential and commercial Gib plasterboard board linings and Sto render and flooring systems; to the preservation and restoration of historic buildings; and manufacture of custom architectural plaster work Plastercraft also manufactures fibrous plaster sheets to create “modern, architectural ceilings” for new buildings; and glass reinforced cement (GRC) features and roofing slates for exterior work. Watson says the company’s use of these modern, resilient materials allows it to recreate the features of the past in heritage homes and historical buildings, in a manner that will “last well into the future”. The companies have been involved with several earthquake repairs to historic buildings in Christchurch such as the Canterbury Club; and Strowan House at St Andrew’s College - “an elaborate building of great historic significance”. The company is also currently working on the The Heritage Apartments in Cathedral Square.

It is always our first intention to repair and restore an original feature but if this is not possible we are able to reinstate it sympathetically.”

Proud to support Plaster Services Ltd

Plastercraft and Plaster Services recently designed and installed this elaborate banquet hall vaulted ceiling for a client in Auckland. Another recent high profile project was the reinstatement of the historic facade of The Press newspaper’s award winning new building in Gloucester Street which literally “rose from the rubble” due to their work. The project was completed within a quick timeframe and had its first big test in the December quakes, two days before Christmas. “It was a testament to the replica work that the facade came through these quakes unscathed apart from some very minor damage to the pre-cast wall,” says Watson.

The Christchurch market provides the bulk of the companies’ business however they have worked on several other notable projects throughout New Zealand including the restoration of Parliament Buildings in Wellington and Eichardts Hotel in Queenstown. Plastercraft is now well settled in its new base at 447 St Asaph Street, after leaving its earthquake damaged former premises in Aranui. “It is a better site and location, as we are a lot handier to the general public and our market as the rebuild gets underway.”

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Business South / December 2012

CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » Longsilver Construction

Relocated firm is making its mark Jo Bailey When Mark Anderson and Anna Grace started Longsilver Construction in Cromwell in 2009 they couldn’t have imagined the huge changes and challenges that lay ahead for their new business. In less than three years they have relocated, changed the company’s main work focus, and dramatically increased staff numbers. Prior to setting up on their own, Anderson had spent nearly a decade working for former Christchurch company CBD Construction, including five years running its Central Otago construction sites in Cromwell. He and Grace were enjoying the challenge of setting up on their own account, when the September 2010 earthquake hit and threw all their plans up in the air. “There was a growing need for builders in Canterbury after the September earthquake, so by December we had already moved the business and our family back up there in response,” says Anderson. Longsilver Construction was one of the first three companies to gain Fletcher EQR accreditation in Kaiapoi, the North Canterbury river town that was badly affected by the first big shake. Anderson and his six employees were busy on repair works when the “big one” hit in February and it was apparent the small company needed to grow at the rapid rate to cope with its increasing workload. Since then Longsilver Construction has continually recruited more staff and now has around 21 employees, both qualified tradespeople and apprentices, who concentrate on repair, rebuild and renovation work. Anderson says that the core skills of his team are roughly a third carpentry, a third wallpaper stripping and plastering, and a third painting. “We have several women on the team, including painting apprentices, which is something we’re particularly proud of.” In the 20 months since Longsilver Construction has been working with Fletcher EQR, the company has repaired more than 150 houses in the Kaiapoi township. At any one time the firm has around a dozen jobs on the go. A strict health and safety regime is a key aspect of the company’s accreditation with Fletchers, something Anderson was used to after working on big commercial construction projects with CBD Construction. “Generally residential builders haven’t had to deal with the systematic approach to health and safety that is now required post earthquake. “It’s essentially big company standards trickling down to smaller companies.” Longsilver Construction employs health and safety specialist Karen Schulz on retainer who conducts in-house accreditation of staff that is followed up with spot checks, audits, investigations and monthly reports.

North Canterbury just got

hot!

Mark Anderson’s Longsilver Construction has been busy repairing homes in Kaiapoi since the 2010 earthquake.

“Few of our staff had experienced this type of approach to health and safety before, but I know from managing large construction projects that you can’t have half measures. You’ve got to go the whole hog.” Anderson says after working so many years in commercial building it has been “life-

changing” to return to residential construction and work in the aftermath of the quakes. “I’ve learned a lot about people, particularly how much they value their homes. “It is a much more personal experience,” says Anderson. With other jobs “trickling in”, tender

requests increasing in number and a significant jump in enquiries, Anderson doesn’t expect the pace to let up any time soon. “We are looking forward to whatever challenges lie ahead in 2013 and will continue to play our part in the region’s recovery.”

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CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » March Construction

Business South / December 2012

French giant takes stake in March Jo Bailey The acquisition of over half of longstanding Canterbury firm March Construction by French construction giant VINCI, is a significant milestone for the family-owned business, said managing director Guy March in a recent press release. “The investment by Soletanche Freyssinet (a subsidiary of VINCI) will give March Construction access to world-leading experience, equipment and technologies unrivalled in the New Zealand construction business.” “It is also notable that this is the first time a company as significant as VINCI has invested in New Zealand’s civil construction sector. March now has the largest financial backing of any construction company in New Zealand.” In early September March Construction’s owners, Buzz March and his sons Guy and Andrew announced the sale of 55 percent of their company. The business was founded by Buzz and his brother Sam 41 years ago and is one of New Zealand’s oldest family-owned civil construction operations. March Construction will become part of the Soletanche Freyssinet group within VINCI - one of the 40 biggest companies on the French stock market with revenues of NZ$94 billion.

It is currently ranked 183 in the Fortune 500 list of global corporations. The relationship between the companies was secured on joint venture projects over the last eight years through Soletanche Freyssinet’s Australian business unit Menard Bachy. Menard Bachy and March Construction are currently working in a joint venture to rebuild the levies at the Bromley Sewage ponds to prevent further liquefaction. Menard Bachy Oceania managing director Paul McBarron said the joint venture relationship had allowed the companies to realise each partner’s skills, strengths and common interests. “This has allowed a partnership to develop based upon mutual trust and respect.” However he says the acquisition of the stake in March Construction is not just focused on Christchurch earthquake recovery works and that Soletanche Freyssinet is investing in New Zealand for the long term. “This acquisition is an opportunity for us to grow the company regionally and particularly into Auckland market.” Soletanche Freyssinet is a world leader in ground, structural and civil engineering, with 18,000 employees worldwide. The group works on thousands of project each year to design, build, maintain and repair a

The investment by Soletanche Freyssinet (a subsidiary of VINCI) will give March Construction access to world-leading experience, equipment and technologies unrivalled in the New Zealand construction business.” wide variety of structures including bridges, port facilities, transport infrastructure, shopping centres, high-rise buildings, dams, stadiums, mines and tunnels. March Construction is a multi-disciplined civil construction company, and a leading constructor of water and waste-water infrastructure, foundation piling, and temporary or permanent retaining and dewatering systems for the construction of underground structures. Paul McBarron says the acquisition of the holding in March Construction is an example of Soletanche’s business model of teaming up with local companies. It has more than 180 business units in more than 100 countries working in specialist parts of the construction sector.

“Under this new ownership structure, the March business unit will evolve over time into a design and construction solutions contractor,” McBarron says. March Construction would keep its name, with Guy March continuing as its managing director. Senior managers of Soletanche will join the March board. Guy March says the new ownership will open up opportunities for the company and staff to take part in more complex projects. “March Construction’s current and future clients will have access to industry-leading solutions backed by the security of a company with both the technical and financial resources to deliver on small and large-scale construction and infrastructure projects,” March says.

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CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » Technosol

Business South / December 2012

Expertise in demand to repair quake damage Jo Bailey Technosol’s expertise in the strengthening, protection and repair of concrete walls, floors, columns and beams has been in high demand since the Christchurch earthquakes. Managing director Matt Bradley says a particular growth area for the company has been the application of FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymer Compounds) used to reinforce and strengthen buildings, infrastructure, concrete and masonry structures. “This side of the business has grown exponentially,” says Bradley. “We are using FRP extensively at the University of Canterbury and Christ’s College School House, and also at Southland Stadium which is being redeveloped following damage caused by the big snowstorm in 2010.” The system is lightweight so adds strength, but little extra weight to the buildings, he says. Technosol is a licensed installer of the Mapei

FRP system and its world-leading range of construction for buildings. This is just one of the many premium brands represented by the company that also features A1 Sports Floors, Altex Coatings, Resene Paints, Sika, Nuplex Industries and Uzen/Pullman. In addition to its high profile FRP projects, the company is doing extensive work at the Canterbury Waste Treatment Plant at Bromley, and Goodman’s development at Show Place, Addington. “We also do a lot of industrial flooring work and specialise in swimming pool development. “In the last few years we’ve completed the Graham Condon Pool in Papanui and Dudley Pool in Rangiora, and have the Kaiapoi Aquatic Centre coming up next.” The company’s specialist service capability is diverse. These include everything from industrial and commercial floor topping and coating systems; to protective and decorative wall and floor coatings; concrete grinding and polishing; intumescent fire coatings, car park waterproofing and tanking;

Technosol has the capacity and skills for large commercial and industrial projects. concrete joint sealants; seismic jointing; epoxy injection; and ceramic tile supply and installation. Most of the company’s work is at the commercial and industrial end of the scale, “purely because we have the capacity to cope with the larger contracts”, says Bradley. “Following the earthquakes the size of our team increased from 14 to a peak of 80 but will probably settle at around 60 long-term.” Bradley has been a partner in Technosol for 15 years, owning the business outright for the last four. He has successfully managed the company’s growth by promoting a lot of his skilled, existing staff into project management and leading hand type roles, and building teams underneath them. “I haven’t had any trouble finding people. We’ve taken on a lot of new local staff and around 15

migrant workers from Italy and Brazil who have fitted in well. “We’ve also increased the office capability of the business in terms of staff and systems. “It’s critical to have the right people in the right places.” Bradley says as well as repair work the “business-as-usual” market is starting to pick up with more projects up for tender. “I’m extremely happy with the way things are going. Without the earthquakes it would be fair to say the Christchurch construction industry would be struggling like it was for the previous 10 years. “However in the current market instead of fighting against each other to pick up work we’re now often working right alongside each other. “There is more than enough for everybody.”

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CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » CJ Phillips Construction

Business South / December 2012

Huge demand for concreting skills Jo Bailey The concrete division of C J Phillips Construction’s operation has grown exponentially since the earthquakes, says director Clayton Phillips. “We specialise in the residential market where there is huge demand for the replacement of earthquake damaged driveways, foundation slabs and paths. We can also package these services with our building division to offer people a complete construction solution.” The Christchurch-based company has its own team of concrete placers focused solely on concrete work. They are supported by two teams who carry out all the concrete preparation work, and a subcontractor who assists when needed. One of the company’s concrete placers is experienced in decorative concrete work, which has also “taken off”, says Phillips. “He is highly skilled which enables us to offer a range of different options to clients.” Over the last two years most of the company’s work has been earthquake repair related. However Phillips says the company is pricing a growing number of new houses, both in the concrete and construction sides of its operation. “One of our biggest advantages is that we can do the whole job for people, from scraping and clearing the site, to laying foundations, building the home, laying driveways, paths and patios, and even building retaining walls.” Although concrete work is set to become the dominant part of C J Phillips Construction’s operation, it is still business as usual for Phillips’ team of builders who work on a diverse range of projects. Some of its stand-out completed projects include the large renovation of an 110 year old villa in Lyttelton; an earthquake repair to a large 100

CJ Phillips Construction has worked on a diverse range of building projects, including this boatshed and helipad. year old homestead in Akaroa; new home builds; holiday home, boatshed and helipad construction; commercial fitouts; and a few years ago, the construction of Cafe Kudos on Annex Road. Shelving is another niche market for the company. It is an approved installer of the quality New Zealand made Hydestor brand of adjustable steel shelving systems and accessories. “I’ve been installing shelving for 15 years, even before I started my own business in 2003. It’s quite

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varied and enjoyable work. We recently installed the shelving at the new St Martins New World store, and have completed a lot of library, display, and storage shelving for clients among numerous other projects.” Phillips says having the right staff is essential to his business. “We have a good team of guys that has grown to 11 since the earthquakes.” He is comfortable at maintaining the business at around this size.

“We could certainly get bigger, but then I would have to look at employing a manager or project managers. At this size I can manage it myself with just one extra person in the office.” He also enjoys the personal contact and service he can offer his clients at this level. “When clients ring up I know who I’m talking to and what is going on with their job. It’s that sort of service that makes a difference to clients and hopefully keeps them coming back.”

Business South / December 2012

REBUILD » Bowers Builders / Willis & Associates Architects

Apartments grow in popularity Jo Bailey Bowers Builders specialises in renovation work.

Firm takes care of everything Karen Phelps After the earthquakes some chose to flee the city. Bowers Builders has bucked the trend by relocating from Thames to Christchurch. However company owner Johnnie Bowers says u the decision was not purely a work related one: “We’ve always like the South Island and we travelled down regularly. “With my son choosing to go to study in Christchurch it seemed like a good reason to move down permanently,” says Bowers, a trade certified builder. The move was made in February 2012 and nearly a year down the track Bowers has been busy working for EQC doing assessment work as well as helping with the rebuild. The company mainly subcontracts to Fletchers for EQC work. It is currently under-taking a full strip out and rebuild of a residential home including regibbing, repairing and a new roof. Bowers Builders was started in 2005 in Thames by Bowers who has 35 years industry experience. He says setting up in Christchurch has been easy; the most difficult aspect is finding the right subcontractors with demand placed on all the trades in the city. Don’t be surprised to see Bowers’ wife Amanda putting on a tool belt and getting out on the job. Amanda completes the painting and some building work for the company. After working in an office she says getting her hands dirty on the job makes a welcome change. Bowers Builders also employs another painter and the Bowers’ son Alex, 18, works for the business part-time rounding off the team.

The company specialises in renovation work and makes all its own joinery for projects giving greater control over quality and timing. Bowers says the only difference with earthquake repair work is the extra sensitivity required working with clients who may be suffering from earthquake related stress. Bowers Builders can take care of everything from resource consents to building. The company undertakes projects both large and small such as fitting new storage or display units, a simple little deck to generate great indoor/ outdoor flow or a larger one to create a great outdoor entertainment area. Bowers Builders also constructs new houses. The company can work with an architect and Bowers is putting together a range of fixed price plans to make the process easier for Cantabrians as the new home rebuild starts. “We’re really flexible. If someone has their own plans that’s fine. If they want us to organise that or use one of our standard plans that’s fine too. “We aim to do a quality job every time and make sure our clients are satisfied. We keep them in the loop and involve them in the process as much as they want to be.”

Architect Gavin Willis says there has been significant growth in the development of multi-unit residential buildings in Christchurch over the last few years. “Apartments can be an affordable first step into property ownership as developers often provide floor coverings, blinds, appliances and a secure carpark as part of the package. This, plus the fact buyers may receive a title over a small piece of land, makes them an attractive option.” The strength of the multi-residential market has prompted Willis and his company Willis & Associates to specialise in apartment design for the last five years - a trend he expects to continue. “We have already designed around 200 apartments in the Christchurch L3 zone, which all stood up very well to the earthquakes and remain fully operational. We are currently working on other similar projects in the L3 zone and have a significant amount of work coming up in this market for an Auckland client.” Gavin Willis is one of Christchurch’s longestserving architects. He started in the family business in the early 1950s, which was established by his father, Francis Willis in 1928. In 1956 Gavin Willis left for an OE, working at a ski school in Switzerland before starting with an architectural firm in London. During this time he became lead designer for the administration complex of Monsanto Chemicals’

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£20 million pound development at Southhampton. This was an extraordinarily large project for its time that attracted a visit from the Queen’s husband Prince Phillip. The Monsanto project gave Gavin Willis valuable experience in industrial design that he carried over into many more commercial and industrial projects in New Zealand after his return to the family business in the late 1950s. Over the next 30 years the company opened branches in Queenstown and Alexandra, but after the 1987 stockmarket crash, restricted its activities back to Christchurch. There are currently four on the team at Willis & Associates including Gavin Willis, but he expects numbers to grow as demand increases. The company is operating from Horner Street, Papanui, after its historic Hereford Street offices and many of its records, were lost in the February earthquake. In addition to multi-unit residential developments, the company works on residential, commercial and industrial design projects, including earthquake-repairs and the retro-fitting of commercial premises. Some of Willis’s favourite projects over the years include the Hollands Motors’ premises in Shakespeare Road; several stand-out houses; the Alexandra District Council building; the Satterthwaite’s building in Newmarket, Auckland; and Australasia’s first automated flour mill that was built in Moorhouse Avenue in 1982. “This was also one of the first solid pre-cast buildings constructed in Christchurch.”

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CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » HQ Construction

Business South / December 2012

Fiddlesticks - a feather in the cap Jo Bailey HQ Construction recently completed another high profile hospitality project to add to its portfolio. The award-winning Christchurch company was engaged to do extensive building and fitout work for popular new bistro, Fiddlesticks, on the Montreal Street/Worcester Boulevard site previously occupied by Le Bon Bolli restaurant.

“This was a great job to be involved with as it is an important part of the revitalisation of the inner city,” says HQ managing director, Huntley Quinn. “It was also quite challenging given its small site, and the tight timeframe to deliver the project to ensure it was open in time for the busy summer period.” HQ Construction started work onsite in July and handed over the finished project in early October. The “funky, contemporary” bistro has a number of unique features including a grass

feature wall, opening louvres in the roof, pine wood panelling, and a “fantastic” outdoor courtyard area that provides all weather dining. Hospitality and retail fit-out projects are nothing new to HQ Construction, that also specialises in one-off home designs and large extensions to existing homes, says Quinn. “We have worked with Fiddlesticks’ owners before on projects including the Fox and Ferret, Sticky Fingers, and the No.4 bar in Merivale, where we completed extensive works around six years ago.”

Post earthquake, the company has been involved in several light commercial fit-outs and relocation projects, including the interior fit-out of Duncan Cotterill’s premises in Sir William Pickering Drive and the relocation of Marion McKellow Jewellery, The Rock Shop and Nairn’s Watchmakers. One of HQ Construction’s most challenging residential projects since the earthquakes was the construction of an impressive hillside home in Scarborough that won a silver medal at the 2011 Master Builders House of the Year Awards.

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Business South / December 2012

CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » HQ Construction

HQ Construction has done many hospitality and retail fit-out projects and also specialises in one-off home designs and large extensions to existing homes.

The company is also accredited with Fletchers, Hawkins and all major insurance companies meaning clients can nominate HQ Construction to take care of earthquake repairs on their commercial or residential buildings. Over the nine years the company has been operating it has always run light commercial projects alongside its private residential work, which unless earthquake-related are usually mid to top end projects. Quinn, who is a Master Builder and Licensed Building Practitioner with over 20 year’s experience, personally oversees every project, coordinating HQ Construction’s 11 site staff and any external trades needed. He says a significant amount of HQ Construction’s business is generated by repeat business and referrals. “We are focused on providing a high level of customer service, with clear lines

of communication and a close working relationship for all our projects. Clients expect a combination of innovative design, precision construction and attention to detail which is something we work hard to deliver.” Flexibility is another key attribute of the company, he adds. “We offer a full package from the earliest design stages to handing over the keys. Otherwise clients can simply select the appropriate suite of services from us to meet their needs.” A steady growth phase has seen the company move into offices in Wordsworth Street, where its administrative team is based. “We have a good solid team and a great company culture that is about creating the right experience for our clients. We don’t look upon our work as simply building houses - it’s all about building relationships.”

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CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » Jim the Builder

Business South / December 2012

Jim the Builder has been busy doing earthquake repair work on homes for Fletchers EQR.

Jim the Builder gears up for rebuild Jo Bailey Christchurch construction company Jim the Builder is gearing up for work as the city rebuild starts to get into full swing. Owner Jim Stenberg recently joined forces with project manager Andrew Clark in a bid to grow both their existing businesses and provide enhanced service to their growing client base. “Andrew and I were both doing a lot of work for the same high-end clients which is how our business relationship started. “We decided to take it to the next level by

combining our expertise into one package,” says Stenberg. Staff numbers have almost doubled from 16 to over 30 since they formed their new company EQ Project Services Ltd, trading as Jim the Builder. “Joining forces has been a really positive step. We have moved into new premises at 230 Barbadoes Street and taken on two quantity surveyors to build up our back office capability in anticipation of the rebuild.” Stenberg says the award winning company is dealing with a “huge clientele” across a range of projects including the construction of top quality new homes; large scale renovations; insurance

work, renovations and earthquake repairs for Fletchers EQR. “We’ve had our fingers in lots of different pies in order to keep our team busy until the rebuild kicks off,” he says. “It’s taken a bit longer than we thought for this to happen, although things are definitely picking up now.” Jim the Builder has won several Master Builder awards for its projects including two Gold Awards for residential projects in 2009. An impressive, technically challenging home built by the company in Leinster Road for architects Cymon Allfrey Architects won the Supreme Award at the ADNZ/Resene Design Awards in 2011.

“It is a stunning house, planned around a central axis which expands into a series of interior and exterior spaces. “We were thrilled the house won this prestigious design award. Unfortunately our plans to enter it in the Master Builder Awards were derailed by the earthquakes.” Jim the Builder is due to start building an architect’s own home just after Christmas and has several other private builds lined up in the New Year. “Clients in the new home market are starting to realise now that if they don’t start soon it may be some time before we can get to them,” says Stenberg.

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Business South / December 2012

CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » Jim the Builder

Jim the Builder has won several Master Builder awards over the years for its projects, including two gold awards for residential projects. The company also works on light commercial projects. It has a hotel fit-out and a “few other bits and pieces” to complete next year. Stenberg has around 20 years experience in the building industry. He qualified as a builder in New Zealand then spent several years building in northern New South Wales, before returning to Christchurch. He worked for a couple of other local developer/ builders before starting Jim the Builder Ltd in early 2005. He is “really pleased” with the progress of the business and believes there is scope for more growth yet.

“We plan to grow to around 50 staff at the maximum. “It’s important that we have the right people in place and give them opportunities to move up the ranks. This means guys that start with us as an apprentice can see a path towards a foreman’s job or another senior role within the company.” With the boom on the horizon, he says the company is poised to “get stuck in and do what we can”. “We’re in a good position, a good head space, and have the people and systems to deal with whatever lies ahead.”

Joining forces has been a really positive step. We have taken on two quantity surveyors to build up our back office capability in anticipation of the rebuild.”

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CHRISTCHURCH REBUILD » Christchurch Building

Business South / December 2012

Local knowledge a huge advantage Karen Phelps Being locally owned and operated makes a big difference to undertaking earthquake repair work, says Grant Baker of Christchurch Building. “One of our key advantages is that unlike many building companies that have just come into the market here recently we are local and have been working in Christchurch for a long time. We know the local area and the contractors. “With all the right people at our finger tips including carpenters, stoppers, brick layers, painters and quantity surveyors we have access to everything needed to get the job done. This makes things quicker,” says Baker, who has nearly 30 years industry experience under his belt. Since its inception in 1992 Christchurch Building has grown into a respected and award winning building company specialising in new home construction, additions and renovations, light commercial as well as landscaping projects. Over the past two years the company Building has made a major contribution to helping to get the city back on its feet. Christchurch Building is affiliated with Fletchers EQR, Hawkins Construction and Arrow International helping with around 150 homes in the Canterbury Home Repair Programme so far. “Our high standards have been recognised and appreciated in both architecturally designed new homes and in sympathetic restoration and expansion projects,” says Baker. “We have also been entrusted with a range of heritage buildings. Baker says that word of mouth is the main way new customers come to Christchurch Building. “The key is to establish good communication. We keep in contact with clients throughout the build. We specialise in working with clients to answer any difficult building questions. “Creating the least amount of hassle for our clients is high on our list of priorities when undertaking any project,” says Baker. Christchurch Building is a family run business with wife Kerry taking on project management

Christchurch Building specialises in new home construction, additions and renovations, light commercial as well as landscaping projects. and administration roles. “This means that our customers don’t have to deal with a lot of different people – they just deal with me or Kerry. “People really appreciate this personal service,” says Baker. Christchurch Building doesn’t employ staff but rather contractors so it can get the right team for each specific job. All the contractors the company works with have been hand-picked and have worked with Christchurch Building for a number of years. Baker says this gives a team he can rely on.

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“We know their skills and they know our expectations. This enables us to produce high quality jobs quickly for our clients.” Although at present earthquake repairs are keeping the company busy, Christchurch Building also completes insurance work through a local

insurance broker including a medical supply centre at Northwood and the Duxton Dental in Papanui. Baker will employ more staff in 2013 and expand the business to aid the rebuild effort. “It’s nice to know that we are doing something to help get this city back on its feet.”

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CONSTRUCTION » Clyne & Wright Construction

Business South / December 2012

All go for interior fit-out specialists Jo Bailey The opening of the South Bar & Cafe at Christchurch International Airport in early November was satisfying for the team at Clyne and Wright Construction, the interior fit-out specialists chosen to complete the $1.2 million project. “We were thrilled to be part of this high profile project,” says Clyne and Wright Construction director, Dave Wright. “The opening ended a long wait for a full bar facility at the airport, after the works were prolonged by the Christchurch earthquakes.” Designed by award winning company Burning Red in Auckland, South Bar & Cafe is a 600sqm venue located just past the main domestic arrivals exit in the airport’s main terminal. It features five distinct zones: a cafe area; lounge with leather seating and decor based around local wines; a courtyard area; a casual dining and drinking zone with sports TV viewing; and a sitdown dining area. The venue also has a boardroom, with two new meeting areas to be developed in the short term. “This was a reasonably challenging project with a lot of structural elements that had to be worked through with engineers, and the constraints of working within a busy airport environment,” says Wright. “The end result is something we are all very proud of.” The bar is one of several food and beverage projects completed by Clyne and Wright Construction as part of the Christchurch Airport redevelopment. It worked with Christchurch company Redesign on the Espresso to Go; Grab and Fly; Espresso to Go/Coffee Club; Noodle; Number Eight and Burger King outlets in the new terminal building. “We have built a strong relationship with Redesign, with whom we have also completed hospitality fit-outs at Auckland International Airport; and Mumbai International Airport, which was a unique challenge.” Office, retail fit-outs, and mall food courts are other areas of expertise for the company.

The South Bar & Cafe at Christchurch International Airport is located just past the main domestic arrivals exit in the main terminal. “Over the years we have worked on office fitouts for clients such as Environment Canterbury, New Zealand Cricket, New Zealand Credit Union, Wood Rivers Hawes Accountants, and recruitment company Sheffields,” he says. Clyne and Wright Construction have completed

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several Silver Moon and Divine Cakes outlets, as well as Sushi Express and Maki Mono Sushi stands. In 2010 the company won the Redesign Supreme Shop Fit Out of the Year award for its work on Poppy Thai at Westfield Mall in Christchurch. “The relationships we have built with top

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quality designers such as Redesign and Hierarchy Architecture in Christchurch; and Burning Red in Auckland; plus the repeat business we get from our clients is critical to our ongoing success.” Although their focus is firmly on commercial interiors these days, it was residential construction

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Business South / December 2012

CONSTRUCTION » Clyne & Wright Construction

Clyne and Wright Construction is a specialist in commercial interior fit-out projects, including office, retail fit-outs, and mall food courts. projects that Dave Wright and Glenn Clyne founded their business on 28 years ago. “We didn’t plan for the business to evolve this way. However it been a natural progression that has worked out well. We enjoy the high level of finish that is required for these types of projects.” Wright says around 10 years ago the balance tipped towards more commercial work, largely due to the longstanding relationship the company has with Bupa Healthcare, one of the world’s biggest healthcare providers. “We started out building new rest homes for a private company which was later sold to Guardian Healthcare, then onsold to Bupa. “We haven’t completed any rest home development work for them for a while, but are currently working on the refurbishment of several of their existing units.” Both Wright and Clyne are still actively involved in the day to day running of the business.

Wright handles more of the office-based tasks such as pricing, quantity surveying, accounts and job set up; and Clyne running projects on-site and managing their team of eight employees. Wright says the eastern suburbs based company was “crazily busy” in the aftermath of the February earthquake, trying to get its clients “back up and running quickly” where possible and dealing with its own issues. “We’ve carried out a significant amount of refurbishment work and helped to relocate several businesses.” The company has plenty of work underway, lots more on its books, and a “mad period” taking it through to Christmas, says Wright. “One of the most satisfying aspects of our work is helping both new and existing businesses spring into life in Christchurch. It’s great to see premises opening or reopening after so many were lost in the earthquakes.”

We didn’t plan for the business to evolve this way. However it been a natural progression that has worked out well. We enjoy the high level of finish that is required for these types of projects.”

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CONSTRUCTION » Steel Construction NZ

Business South / December 2012

Steel has role to play in seismic engineering Jo Bailey Seismic engineering will be a key topic at the inaugural Steel Innovations Conference to be held in Christchurch next year. “The conference is an exciting opportunity to showcase the latest innovations in steel systems and technology, and highlight new ways of constructing buildings using steel that improve their performance in a large seismic event,” says Alistair Fussell, manager of Steel Construction New Zealand (SCNZ), that organised the event. He is expecting around 150 delegates to attend the conference on February 21-22, a mix of structural engineers, researchers, architects, building designers, council and CERA engineers and others involved in the steel industry. Christchurch was the obvious choice to host the conference with people looking at new ways of building in the earthquake stricken city, he says. “Steel construction hasn’t featured highly in Christchurch in the past. “However we know the city is going to look different and be rebuilt differently. It is an exciting time to be part of the debate and to disseminate ideas to people designing new buildings, so they have the tools to utilise steel systems and technology in the rebuild.” Delegates attending the conference at the brand new Air Force Museum Conference Centre at Wigram will be shown case studies of both new steel construction systems and instances where an existing steel structure has been enhanced by the addition of low-damage seismic technology. This includes bolted eccentrically braced frame links, which if damaged in an earthquake can be easily and cost effectively replaced. Fussell says following the Christchurch disaster, people are more prepared to pay a “small premium” for a building with better performance. “This sort of thinking wasn’t really on peoples’ radar before the earthquakes. However the disaster has shown us the value of buildings that do more

than just stand up to allow people out safely, but that can also be reoccupied with minimal downtime.” On the whole, he says steel buildings performed “very well” in both the September 2010 and February 2011 earthquakes. “The HSBC Tower suffered only minor seismic damage and was reoccupied without requiring structural repair while the Pacific Tower suffered repairable structural damage. These repairs are currently underway.” SCNZ holds regular six-monthly seminars around New Zealand but the conference is the first time the organisation has pulled together a range of local and international speakers for a large event. Speakers include Professor Michel Bruneau, University of Buffalo, who for 10 years served as Deputy Director then Director of the Multidisciplinary Center for Earthquake Engineering Research in New York. He has conducted numerous reconnaissance visits to disaster-stricken areas, including Christchurch, and has authored or co-authored hundreds of papers and reports as well as two textbooks. Delegates will also hear from Taiwan University Professor Keh-Chyuan Tsai who has conducted research into the design and analysis of steel structures subjected to earthquake loads for over 20 years. In the mid-90s he assisted the National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering (NCREE) build up its experimental facilities, and was head of the NCREE Building Engineering division. “Professor Tsai has been involved with a number of projects to develop energy absorbing steel devices for seismic-resistant buildings. In particular, the double-core buckling restrained braces he developed have been adopted as the earthquake force-resisting system in more than 50 major buildings in Taiwan. The implementation of this technology is also gaining momentum in New Zealand,” says Fussell. Other speakers include Professor Brian Uy, University of Western Sydney, Associate Professor Charles Clifton, University of Auckland, and Associate Professor Greg MacRae, University of Canterbury.

Steel has an important role to play in new construction methods. Although providing an education in seismicresisting steel innovations is a key part of the conference, it covers a range of additional topics including composite steel construction, fire engineering, durability, sustainability and steel bridges. “We have a strong programme with wide appeal. All the topics will be well covered,” says Fussell. He says there has been good advance interest in the conference.

“It is an exciting time to be part of the debate and to

“More building owners are keen to explore lowdamage options and not just in Christchurch,” says Fussell. “That’s why an event such as the Steel Innovations Conference is so important to keep building designers, engineers and others in the industry up to speed with the rapidly evolving technology on offer.” For more information or to register for the Steel Innovations Conference, visit www.scnz.org

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It is not just the Christchurch rebuild that will generate increased demand for seismic grade structural steel, with these products now mandatory for many types of new steel framed buildings in New Zealand, says OneSteel NZ sales manager, Craig Taylor.

standards and a test certificate for each length of steel is available.OneSteel product has complete traceability from production to site, allowing engineers and builders to have complete confidence in our entire range.

Significant changes to the Australian/New Zealand Structural Steel Standards have been made recently in response to design requirements and industry concerns regarding compliance. Steels in seismic resisting systems must now have sufficient toughness to reduce the likelihood of sudden catastrophic collapse during an earthquake.

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“We are proud of our reputation as a manufacturer of quality products to the New Zealand market.”

CONSTRUCTION » Phoenix Steel

Business South / December 2012

Resurgence in steel construction Jo Bailey A busy local market combined with a significant number of Christchurch rebuild projects has all but guaranteed the future of Timaru-based, Phoenix Steel. Noel Fitzgerald says there is a “noticeable difference” in the number of tenders coming out of Christchurch. “In the last three or four months things have really got off the ground,” says Fitzgerald. “We’re seeing construction drawings on the table rather than just concepts.” He says the South Canterbury market is also busier than he’d expect on the back of growth in the farming, dairy, water and exporting sectors. Fitzgerald and business partner Simon Askin founded Phoenix Steel two years ago along with Fitzgerald’s son Jonothon. Both Fitzgerald and Askin have a long history in the steel game in Timaru, with 25 and 15 years experience respectively. Fitzgerald previously owned Aorangi Steel, a company he sold around seven years ago to get into property development in Timaru, Lake Tekapo and Queenstown. “I never really intended to get back into steel, but after my restraint of trade ended, my son Jonothon showed some interest in the industry and talked me into giving it another go. “Simon had previously worked for me at Aorangi Steel and was keen to branch out on his own so we got it together from there.” The business partners developed a brand new 1500sqm workshop and 300sqm of offices and amenities in Sheffield Street, Washdyke, complete with all new machinery and equipment including two 5-tonne overhead cranes. They started with four staff but already have 12 on the back of strong growth over the last 18 months. “We would employ a lot more if we could find the right men, but experienced structural engineers are difficult to find.” Phoenix Steel is focused solely on the commercial market.

Structural steel is recognised as being more durable than concrete.”

Phoenix Steel has just completed the steel framework for this three-storey office complex in Blenheim Road, Christchurch. Its first major contract was the manufacture of steel for Hall’s Transport’s new premises in Main South Road, Christchurch. The company has also manufactured “a couple of hundred tonnes of steel trusses” for Fonterra’s massive new dry store at Darfield; provided steel for the new Settler’s Museum in Dunedin; several bulk store facilities in Washdyke and dairy shed developments in South Canterbury; among many other projects. It is involved with two developments on Sheffield Street - a new salmon processing factory; and a woolstore for Hilton Haulage. Phoenix Steel also provided the steel for a

design

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three-storey office complex at 295 Blenheim Road, Christchurch. The impressive steel framework for this project was completed in late November. Fitzgerald says there is a growing awareness of the benefits of steel as a construction material, particularly new seismic resistant steel products coming into the market.

“Structural steel is recognised as being more durable than concrete. Compliance is now also a lot stricter with the addition of higher grade seismic grade steels. Test certificates are required for all steel going onto building sites. “This is a good thing as it puts everyone on the same page and prevents lower grade steel from coming into the market.”

Business South / December 2012

CONSTRUCTION » Phoenix Steel

Phoenix Steel says there is a growing awareness of the benefits of steel as a construction material following the Christchurch earthquakes.

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BUILDING » Colin Kelland Builder / Sinclair Builders

Colin racks up awards success Karen Phelps Specialising in design and build projects is part of the reason that Colin Kelland Builder was a local category winner as well as a gold regional award winner at the 2012 Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards. The 170sqm townhouse in Sydney Street, Invercargill was a spec build by Colin Kelland Builder that was snapped up before construction was complete. Comprising three bedrooms, bathroom, ensuite, small office, open plan living/dining area and double garage the townhouse is a good example of the company’s attention to detail and high quality workmanship. Colin Kelland has been building for almost 40 years with 35 of those years clocked up as a self-employed carpenter. During this time he has built many homes from simple through to extensive and complex renovations and additions. He has also completed many light commercial projects. Kelland and his team pride themselves on providing high quality workmanship. He focuses on employing the right people and also goes between jobs to ensure everything is progressing according to plan. Colin’s wife Carol completes all the office and administration work and as well liaising with clients. The company utilises the services of a local architectural draftsperson to take the build from concept to consent stage. Acknowledging that clients can offer find it difficult to visualise the finished product from plans, Kelland assists the process with 3D walk throughs of house plans as well as more practical steps such as telling people to do a

drive by of another local home that has utilised similar materials. “We take projects from start to finish. Clients can come to us with absolutely no idea of what they want or they can come with finished plans. “Whatever the case we aim to make building a pleasurable experience for them by taking care of all the technical decisions so they can focus on the fun stuff like choosing materials and colours,” he says. The company also undertakes renovations and alterations as well as general maintenance work,and also completes development work – designing, building and selling spec homes. Colin Kelland Builder is a Licensed Building Practitioner and as a member of the Master Builders Federation offers clients a 10 year Master Build guarantee. The company works mainly in Invercargill but can travel further afield depending on the project. It has just completed a new home build in Manapouri and is at present working on four different alteration/addition projects as well as starting a new spec build.

Business South / December 2012

Firm enjoying rapid expansion Jo Bailey Christchurch builder Chris Sinclair has noticed a “massive” upswing in work in the last couple of months, but surprisingly not all of it is earthquake related. “Most of our bigger jobs are business-asusual type projects,” Sinclair says. “I think people are getting in before building costs go up and tradesmen become harder to find as the rebuild gains momentum.” Sinclair set up his company Sinclair Builders in 2009 with three staff, and already has 22 on the team.

“The growth has happened in a relatively short time-frame but it’s still been a gradual thing. “We’ve put the systems in place as we’ve gone along to handle it.” Before setting up Sinclair Builders, Sinclair ran his own business in Australia for four years then decided to come back to Christchurch, where he had earlier completed his apprenticeship. The rapid growth of the company has seen him move off the tools and into a company management role sooner than he expected. But it is a transition he welcomes and is enjoying.

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Business South / December 2012 “I did miss the building work to start with and still occasionally give the team a hand at weekends to keep things moving. “But these days I’d rather take the overview and manage the company into the next exciting phase of its growth.” This change of role also allows him to keep a close eye on quality control, something he is “passionate” about as a licensed building practitioner and member of the Certified Builders Association. “Whatever the cost, size or difficulty of the job, it is important they are all finished to the same high standards.” Sinclair Builders is an accredited main contractor to Fletchers EQR, Hawkins and EQC for earthquake repair work. The company has already completed more then 250 full home repairs in additional to a significant amount of emergency work in the aftermath of the disaster. It currently has five new homes for private clients at various stages of construction, as well as some design-and-build spec homes Sinclair is developing in the Wigram Skies and Halswell in the Park subdivisions. He says the company also carries out renovations; builds decks, patios and fences; and does some light commercial work including shop fit-outs. One of the biggest challenges he faces in the current market is finding enough qualified, experienced staff. “We have advertised for a project manager and couple of carpenters, but finding them will be the problem with so much competition for good staff.” He says he has developed good relationships with a regular group of subcontractors to ensure the company’s projects run as seamlessly as possible. “Managing workflow is key, which is a reason I’m taking on another project manager,” says Sinclair. “This will free me up to focus solely on programming and booking for new builds to ensure things flow smoothly.”

BUILDING » Sinclair Builders

Sinclair Builders is an accredited main contractor to Fletchers EQR, Hawkins and EQC for earthquake repair work in Christchurch.

In time Sinclair also plans to develop the company’s design capability, possibly with an in-house or contracted designer. “We don’t have enough new builds to warrant our own designer at the moment but expect we will at some stage in the future.” Sinclair says that he is pleased with the company’s progress in such a short time frame, that he puts down “old fashioned personal service”. “We do what we say we’re going to do; price honestly and get jobs sorted which is what keeps clients coming back.”

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BUILDING » Trevor Ward Builders

Business South / December 2012

Going the extra mile for their clients Jo Bailey Trevor Ward says it was a thrill when his Queenstown-based construction firm added another two Southern Region Master Builders awards to its already impressive tally. However he is quick to praise the efforts of everyone involved in the process. “A big team effort goes into producing an award winning home, from our staff, to the architects and sub-contractors involved in the project. “The awards are a testament to the high level that everyone works at.” They are also a good marketing tool for the company, he adds. “If we can show potential clients a couple of magazines featuring our award winning projects it reassures them we have the team of guys to produce a good job.” Recently Trevor Ward Builders took out a Gold Award and was a local category winner at the 2012 Southern Region House of the Year for Closeburn 3 - the third home it has built at Closeburn Station, an exclusive, gated development on the road to Glenorchy. The stunning Blair + Co designed home integrates well with the natural landscape. Features include locally sourced schist stacked stone, cedar cladding and Glenorchy slate. Inside, there is extensive use of timber windows and doors, solid timber ceilings with exposed timber trusses and natural stone floors throughout.

“It is great looking house in a pretty nice development that has become popular with overseas clients. “We have finished three homes there now and have another two underway - one for an American client and the other for a client from Singapore.” One of these homes is literally “hanging off a rock face”, he says. “It’s going to be pretty amazing. Most of the homes we have built in the development are for overseas clients who love coming here to relax and unwind.” Technology makes communication with overseas clients easy throughout the building process, he says. “We email regular building reports and photos and keep in contact with the architects who generally run the jobs on the client’s behalf. “Most of the clients fly over every three months or so to have a look. We know a lot is expected of us for these sorts of projects which is why it’s important we have conscientious staff who pay attention to detail.” Although comfortable operating at the top end of the market, Ward says the company takes on a diverse range of projects across the board. “At the moment we have an alteration and a smaller home underway in Queenstown. “We are focused on turning out good work no matter what the size of the job.” Trevor Ward Builders’s team has grown from around five to 10 this year after picking up the two additional homes at Closeburn.

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“The Queenstown market has been in a bit of a lull, although we’ve remained steadily busy, particularly with the larger homes that can take up to 18 months to build. “Some local builders have been a bit short of work but things seem to be picking up again. We’re being asked to price a lot more work.” After more than 30 years in the industry, Ward,

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a licensed building practitioner and Master Builder, says he is happy with the company’s position in the market. “We pride ourselves on our construction abilities, honesty, integrity and good communication skills. “We definitely go the extra mile for clients and try that bit harder to make sure everything is right.”

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PRIMARY INDUSTRY » Heartland Chips

Business South / December 2012

‘Paddock to packet’ a popular winner Jo Bailey When Ray Bowan took a table at the Potatoes New Zealand Charitable Trust industry awards dinner in early November, he had no idea he was about to win a major award. His South Canterbury company Heartland Potato Chips took out the Innovative Marketing award at the biennial event for the phenomenal success of its Heartland Potato Chip range. “I was pretty taken aback but it was a great thrill. All the family knew about the award beforehand except me,” he says. In just two years Ray and Adrienne Bowan’s “paddock to packet” story has captured the imagination of New Zealand potato chip eaters, and made the big manufacturers sit up and take notice. The large-scale Orari potato farmers took possession of the old Bluebird potato chip factory in Washdyke in 2009 and by October 2010 had launched their first chips to the market. The growth of the business since then has been remarkable. The brand is already stocked in New World and PAK’nSAVE outlets nationwide and in November, Heartland chips also hit the shelves in the South Island Countdown chain throughout New Zealand. “Our markets are growing all the time and we’ve had fantastic support from the local region. The PAK’nSAVE and New World stores in Timaru are our biggest outlets and other supermarkets in Oamaru, Ashburton and Temuka are up there too.” The Potatoes New Zealand Trust award is not the first accolade won by the unassuming Orari farmer. He was named South Island Farmer of the Year in 2011 and the company has also won an Emerging Business award in Timaru. Heartland’s key point of difference is that all potatoes used in the chip’s production are grown by the Bowans themselves. “I’d always liked the idea of taking potatoes from the paddock right through to the end product. People are more interested in where their food

comes from these days and the chips have excellent traceability.” Heartland’s “old fashioned” wave-cut chips come in five flavours. The high quality snacks are gluten free and have no trans-fats or hydrogenated fats. “We get great feedback about the quality of the chips. People try them once and seem to want to buy them again.” The company recently engaged a nationwide distributor overseen by Heartland’s sales manager Brian Kirby. “Brian has been instrumental in the growth of the business and still has the overview of the sales and marketing side of things.” The Bowan’s three children also have a hand in the family business. Son, James assists with the day-to-day management of Fallgate Farms and daughters Charlotte and Kate have a small interest in Heartland Potato Chips. The company has filled a few small export orders to Fiji, but Bowan says it would be “nice to fill up the New Zealand market” before growing sales off-shore. “We are looking at the feasibility of several export markets but are not at a stage to progress just yet.” The next innovation will be the introduction of smaller 40 to 50 gram sized bags in February or March next year. “There is quite a demand for the smaller bags, that will cost us more to produce, but will hopefully get our name out there. “They will probably be available for both individual and multi-pack sale,” he says. Apart from the busy lead up to Christmas, the factory generally runs between three and five days a week. “There is plenty of scope to grow the business further and we have the ability to supply the additional potatoes ourselves. “We don’t intend to bring potatoes in from other growers as the fact we do the whole lot ourselves is a key part of the brand.” Heartland Potato Chips www.heartlandchips. co.nz

The source: All the potatoes used to produce Heartland Chips are grown by the Bowans in Orari.

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PRIMARY INDUSTRY » Synlait Milk

Business South / December 2012

Synlait celebrates global success Jo Bailey Synlait Milk’s rapid rise from start-up to one of Canterbury’s biggest and most successful export companies saw it named Champion Global Operator at the recent 2012 Champion Canterbury Awards. “This award is testament to our business strategy and great recognition for the efforts of our team,” says chief executive John Penno who co-founded the Synlait Group in 2000. “We’ve been fortunate to attract some extremely talented people to the business who have played a major role in us reaching our targets to date,”

The awards are run by the Canterbury Employer’s Chamber of Commerce and reward business excellence in the region. The dairy processor’s story certainly fits that criteria. In the four years since Synlait started producing its range of premium nutritional milk powders from a state-of-the-art plant at Dunsandel, it has developed export sales to “discerning customers” in over 40 countries, with revenues growing to around $400 million. Staff numbers have reached 130 and continue to grow. The results are impressive although Penno says it has been far from a dream run for the company that was launched “into the teeth” of the global recession.

“If anything we were a bit naïve about what it takes to start up an export business in an extremely volatile set of market conditions. “It can be a very painful way to learn. You either do so very quickly or you drown. It’s not an experience I would want to re-live.” He says Synlait’s management team watched the fluctuating exchange rate and commodity cycles “very closely” in order to understand the market they were entering. “We introduced a strong policy framework around our decision making. “We made some mistakes but learned some valuable lessons too.” The company has always targeted export, rather than domestic sales, with 95 percent of its production in the first year going off-shore. “We built the business backwards by visiting potential export markets and customers first to find out what the consumer wanted, then developed our operation to meet those needs. “There have been a few challenges to overcome given the distance from our

customers, the amount of travelling required and language barriers.” Synlait’s major partnership is with China’s Bright Dairy, which is both a shareholder and a customer. “Bright Dairy is primarily a financial investor and is in fact one of our smallest customers in the Chinese market. As an investor they have always understood we need a broad customer base and have encouraged us to develop new markets. It is part of our business strategy not to be too exposed to China.” Penno says Synlait is currently developing around 20 new customers across the Asian region and into other parts of the world including North Africa and the Middle East. “Although a reasonable-sized business by New Zealand standards, Synlait is still a very small player in the global dairy industry. “This allows us to closely target our marketing at the premium end of the market and carefully choose the countries, customers and products we work with.”

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Business South / December 2012

PRIMARY INDUSTRY » Synlait Milk

Synlait invests heavily in product research and development. It’s factory has three cutting-edge milk powder dryers, including the most sophisticated infant formula plant in the Southern Hemisphere. Synlait has three leading edge milk powder dryers, one of which is the largest and most sophisticated infant formula plant in the Southern Hemisphere. A much smaller but highly specialised drier was added to the plant to produce high-value powder products that other players in the market don’t have the capability to do. Penno says that Synlait’s biggest sellers are currently milk powders which are destined for home use. “We don’t sell direct to the end consumer. The powders will generally be repackaged somewhere else in the market.” Infant formulas account for around five percent of the company’s overall sales, but Penno expects this market to grow rapidly and become a “significant proposition” within the next five years. Synlait also makes nutritional milk powders to order for its customer’s uses in other

manufacturing processes and sells butter-oil “cream”, a by-product of the manufacturing process that can be used to reconstitute milk powders; as an ingredient in baking or cheese making; or in a range of industrial applications. Milk for processing is still gathered from dairy farm suppliers as close as possible to the Dunsandel plant although the hub is widening as the company grows. Penno says he is “very pleased” with the company’s current position in the market. “The decision to set up a milk processing and exporting business came from a deep confidence in the New Zealand dairy industry with our proximity to the emerging Asian populations, and recognition of dairy products as a premium food. “We’re pleased with where Synlait is placed in terms of product range and portfolio and look forward to the next five years with some excitement.”

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MANAUFACTURING Aoraki Frame & Trussa

Business South / December 2012

Specialist loves a good challenge Jo Bailey Aoraki Frame and Truss in Timaru has a reputation for handling the “awkward” jobs, says director Mel Lewis. “One of our key strengths is the ability to come up with solutions for client’s projects they may not have believed possible. “We work with a great variety of configurations and designs, such as curved, raking and scissor trusses and can usually let clients know on the spot whether or not their idea will work.”

One of the company’s more challenging projects was to complete trusses with curves in both the top and bottom chords for a house in Geraldine. The trusses spanned over 11 metres and were curved over the lounge area but flat at each end for the rooms either side. “We have no problem taking on these sorts of projects. Four of our experienced team of six have been in the industry around 20 years and we also have a highly skilled detailer whose technical expertise is up there with the best.” Lewis says Aoraki Frame and Truss recently became an approved producer/statement provider with Timaru District Council that

allows it to sign off on its own trusses, frames and bracing elements in the frames to New Zealand Building Code Standards. “This saves a lot of time and expense for clients as we can get a building to an advanced stage before a building inspector’s appraisal is required. It also means the building can be closed in faster, preventing rain damage.”

Mel and Fay Lewis and business partners Jonathan and Pam Burbery started Aoraki Frame and Truss eight years ago. The company operates from purpose-built premises in the Washdyke Industrial Park. Lewis and Burbery had worked together for 15 years in another Timaru company before deciding to go out on their own.

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MANUFACTURING » Aoraki Frame & Truss

Business South / December 2012

Aoraki Frame and Truss operates from purpose-built premises in the Washdyke Industrial Park, completing work for a wide variety of customers.

“We could see an opening for a frame and truss business - we’re still the only locally owned one in Timaru. We get a lot of feedback from clients who say they like to deal directly with the people who are designing, detailing and making their items.” He credits the assistance of their accountant Bill Baillie from Martin Wakefield Ltd for guiding them into business ownership and beyond. “Bill has done a fantastic job all the way through, giving us guidelines and business advice. He is one of a few people behind the scenes, including our bank manager, who have contributed to the success of the business.” One of Aoraki Frame and Truss’s key clients is pre-fabricated home builders Genesis Homes. It manufacturers all the frames and trusses for Genesis projects and gets involved in “a bit of their design work”. The company also manufactures and packages components for Outpost’s range of relocatable lifestyle and farm kitset buildings,

including livestock shelters, horse stables, hen houses, playhouses and cabins. “I’m a builder by trade, so we’ve also got involved in making up quite a few of the Outpost buildings for local clients, including finished cabins that are wired and fully lined inside,” says Lewis. Aoraki Frame and Truss has numerous other clients including commercial and residential builders and private clients. “We’ve worked on quite a few commercial buildings which involve a lot of big framing and trusses. The longest truss we’ve made is 21 metres for the Hervey Motors building.” He says the company has fielded a few enquiries from the Christchurch market but with plenty to keep it busy in South Canterbury there are no immediate plans to seek work further afield. “We enjoy dealing locally and around 90 percent of our own purchases are made with local companies. “We’ve never been out of work and have been flat out since September last year.”

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CONTRACTING » SJ Allen

Business South / December 2012

Timaru firm establishes Chch branch Kelly Deeks A temporary venture into Christchurch to assist with the repair and replacement of sewer and water systems after the September 2010 earthquake has evolved into a permanent set up and a commitment to long term operation in the city for Timaru company SJ Allen. As earthquake work is beginning to ease off for SJ Allen, the Christchurch branch of the company continues to grow and is picking up more rural and council contracts. SJ Allen Christchurch manager Chris Turner says the company is now in Christchurch for the long haul, and is committed to proving the work it completes is the best and safest in the field. “We are we’re now working towards ISO 14000 Environmental Management accreditation,” he says. “There are not more than half a dozen companies doing that in New Zealand, but we believe that safety and a well done job go hand in hand.” The push for improved health and safety procedures has been somewhat led by the standards set by SCIRT for its delivery teams’ subcontractors. For SJ Allen, health and safety has always played a large role in its operations. Its health and safety policy includes random and regular drug testing on all employees across the board. “There are so many cars going past our work sites, we can’t afford to have anyone under any influence working on our sites,” he says. SJ Allen trucks and drivers are internally audited on a regular basis.

“We place a lot of signage inside our trucks to serve as reminders to our drivers of our health and safety policy. “It’s a part of the day-to-day management required in an industry like this.” SJ Allen Christchurch has developed a strong traffic management division, providing traffic management plans for its own and other companies’ work gangs working on the roads. The traffic management division operates three trucks and provides traffic management plans for level one and level two roads, and is also qualified to manage traffic on transit roads such as Marshlands Road. Turner says the Christchurch public have had enough of earthquakes, aftershocks, and road works, so traffic management has become even more important. “We go further than the traffic management plans demand,” he says. “We put yellow and black bars around the cones, so the guys working on the site can’t step back through them. We are using a lot more safety fences on work sites, and putting a covering over the fences so people driving past won’t look into them, they will look at the road.” As more earthquake work has been completed all over Christchurch, SJ Allen Christchurch is starting to move back to its roots in rural and local body work. The company has recently cleared dust out all of the storm water settling ponds at the Balance fertiliser factory. In Timaru, SJ Allen continues to complete rural work and local body work throughout the South Island, for Timaru City Council and Mackenzie District Council, and Benmore Dam.

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CONTRACTING » Waimea Drilling

Business South / December 2012

Well specialist has extensive knowledge Kelly Deeks Specialising in drilling deep bores, Waimea Drilling Company of Richmond has been helping the Nelson and Marlborough regions to gain access to one of mankind’s most important commodities, clean water, since 1965. The company can provide its clients with domestic water and irrigation, and has a detailed knowledge of piezometers and investigative drilling, including down bore flow rates. It supplies, installs, replaces, and reconditions most major brands of submersible pumps, including Lawara and Grundfos. Waimea Drilling Company is also the home of Drillsoft, presentation software for bore logs which enhances other well drilling businesses. Drillsoft gives clients a greater understanding of the strata through which their well was drilled and the set up of their pump, through the use of pictorial representations of their well. Waimea Drilling Company director Woody Woodford says regional authorities find the presentation to be very accurate and precise for updating their records. With nearly 50 years experience in drilling deep bores (up to 1 kilometre in depth) at the top of the South Island, Waimea Drilling Company has an extensive local knowledge of aquifers and the reputation for unequalled knowledge of underground water in the region. Woodford says that during the 1950s, the Waimea Plains of Richmond saw some of the first irrigation systems installed to combat drought conditions. Dairy farmers and vegetable market gardeners began pumping water from existing rivers, creeks and ponds. Soon shallow wells were being dug in the river flat gravels to obtain further irrigation supplies. “Knowledge of the presence of water below the ground was already established by the many

domestic water supplies found by hand digging a well, or by driving down a perforated 50mm diameter pipe,” Woodford says. The benefits of irrigation on the river flats soon caught the attention of farmers on the higher ground of the Waimea Plains, and the deepest hand dug wells for irrigation water were constructed at Aniseed Valley Road. “My father, Spencer, having had prior experience with sinking shafts in search of gold, had no problems with the depth some of these wells were dug to,” Woodford says. “As his son, I ended up hand digging to the deepest depth of 20.1 metres.” Most of these wells were deepened at a later date by cable tool drilling rigs, the first of which came from the South having been drilling at dam sites such as Benmore. In 1965, the Woodfords purchased a ‘Star’ drilling rig, and larger diameter well drilling equipment and formed Waimea Drilling Company. With the advent of trickle irrigation and the popularity of kiwifruit growing increasing in the region, Waimea Drilling Company became more interested in the possibilities of useful quantities of water being available from deeper wells in the Moutere area. “In 1983 we drilled the first well for kiwifruit irrigation in the Moutere formation with good results,” Woodford says. “This was followed by further successes on other properties, and we managed to convince the Nelson Catchment Board that some deep groundwater investigation would be a good idea.” Today, Waimea Drilling Company is still drilling wells 200m deep in the Moutere formation, which Woodford says is 200 million years old and contains the purest, 20,000 year old water. “The Moutere formation extends from Nelson Lakes, right up the Waimea Plains, and under the sea up to Taranaki,” he says. The water is tested frequently by the Cawthron Institute.

Waimea Drilling company can provide its clients with domestic water and irrigation, and has a detailed knowledge of piezometers and investigative drilling.

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CONTRACTING » Hughes Contracting

Business South / December 2012

Firm adapts to changes in sector Jo Bailey One of Southland’s largest and longest standing agricultural contracting companies, Hughes Contracting, is again meeting the ever changing demands of the rural sector with the purchase of a brand new muck spreader, in response to new Environment Southland regulations regarding dairy effluent management. Brian Hughes has three grazing blocks and shares in a 700-cow dairy farm, as well as working as a contractor based in Waimatua, Invercargill. Having trained and worked as a diesel mechanic for a tractor dealership for 14 years, he set up Hughes Contracting in 1986 after being made redundant. He started as a one man band with a silage chopper, cutting silage on farms around Southland during the summer, and in the off season fixing machinery. As the dairy industry grew in Southland, so did Hughes Contracting, and today the company runs two self propelled silage choppers, tractors, trucks, and loaders, with six permanent staff increasing to 25 during the season, and completing silage and baleage chopping, direct drilling and full cultivation. Hughes Contracting is a family affair with Hughes’ wife Lyn involved in the business, completing the company’s administration, and son Chris in the role of second in charge. Sheep farms and deer farms around Southland converting to dairy farms kept Hughes Contracting busy for many years, building lanes and regrassing paddocks in preparation for milking cows. In recent times dairy conversions have peaked and are now tailing off, but the maintenance of those farms and the cultivation of their paddocks still keeps Hughes Contracting busy in summer. Southland has had a great start to the season so far, with plenty of rain and good spring weather bringing some excellent grass growth, meaning Hughes Contracting’s season is off to a flying start with plenty of silage to cut for its clients. Hughes says cutting silage and cultivation are jobs that require a lot of team work, so having good staff on board is paramount to a job well done. In addition to the permanent staff, Hughes Contracting hire additional casual staff, all skilled machine operators, for the summer. They complete tasks like truck driving, mowing and raking through to harvesting and stacking silage. On a general silage cutting job, a team of about eight will cut 200 acres of silage a day. The ever evolving rural industry has driven the latest acquisition at Hughes Contracting, with Hughes purchasing a Richard Weston muck spreader from Ashburton’s New Zealand Tractors which arrived at the company in November. Hughes says the recent changes to Environment Southland regulations regarding effluent management on dairy farms have seen many Southland dairy farms upgrading or replacing their

Hughes Contracting runs two self propelled silage choppers, tractors, trucks, and loaders for silage and baleage chopping, direct drilling and full cultivation. effluent storage and management systems. The new regulations have also increased the demand for the services of muck spreaders to clean out effluent ponds and apply effluent to pasture.

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CONTRACTING » Iplex Pipelines / Leech Drainage

Business South / December 2012

Iplex gears up to meet demand for products Jo Bailey Ensuring a ready supply of its products is a key focus for Iplex Pipelines, says its Christchurch based civil contracts manager Kerry Hocken. “We have been gearing up for some time to ensure we have the right products and enough stock available to service our customer base as the rebuild gathers momentum. The market is constantly changing which means we have to be flexible and adapt quickly to meet demand.” Iplex is a leading New Zealand manufacturer of plastic pipeline systems from 15 mm up to 3,000 mm diameter. The company was founded in 1938 and has manufacturing facilities in New Zealand, Australia and Singapore. Its full manufacturing plant in Hornby came through the earthquakes relatively unscathed. Hocken says staff numbers have increased “slightly” on the manufacturing side since the disaster, but further growth will be determined by the market. “We have the scope to ramp up production further and increase staff numbers when things get busier. We also have the back-up of our parent factory in Palmerston North, so between the two plants will have no problem producing whatever stock is required.” The innovative pipeline systems produced by Iplex are used for a diverse range of applications including water supply, sewerage, plumbing, gas, stormwater, irrigation, telecommunications, electrical, mining and industrial. “This diversity provides a useful buffer if one of the sectors is a bit slow, however we are currently seeing good growth across our four principal market segments; plumbing, civil, rural and energy and communications.”

Hocken says Iplex was kept busy with urgent repair work in the initial repair phase after the disaster. However it then traded through a quieter period until the last few months as more rebuild projects have come on stream. “The energy and communications sector is going well because of the fibre optic roll-out in the city and our infrastructure market has also been strong. However it’s good to see a lot more commercial and residential work start to flow in alongside.” Hocken says the development of new subdivisions on the outskirts of the city is largely responsible for the increased demand from the residential market. “There has also been quite an upswing in the rural market, with more people shifting out to lifestyle blocks.” Iplex manufactures and supplies a variety of pipes and fittings specifically for rural uses such as irrigation, stock water reticulation, drainage, effluent dispersal and culverts. Hocken has been in the civil contracts manager’s role in Christchurch for around 18 months, but has worked for Iplex for 13 years. He says the company offers “extensive” customer support through its industry-related sales and marketing teams. “Our technical advisory staff includes pipeline engineers who are able to offer advice covering pipeline design, specification, supply and installation.” All Iplex plants have ISO 9002 quality assurance programmes with regular quality audits carried out. “Project wise the rebuild is the biggest thing on the horizon for the Christchurch operation. Our focus will continue to be to provide optimum service and supply of quality products to our customers to ensure they get their work completed without delay.”

New outlook on sewage waste The company currently has six full time and two part time staff, including two added in the last year because of its increased workload. Having a “competent, cautious” team is essential when carrying out septic tank services, she says. “The job involves a lot more than just driving a truck. Our team has to carry specific licenses and have extensive training on dangerous goods and health and safety. They also must to be able to communicate effectively on client’s work sites and private property.” Leech Drainage Services is a member of WasteMINZ the largest representative body of the waste and resource recovery sector in New Zealand. The company holds licenses to work in all areas under the Selwyn and Waimakariri District Councils and Christchurch City Council. Liz Leech says septic tanks in Canterbury generally performed well in the earthquakes. “A few of the older clay type tanks parted company but on the whole the number of problems was relatively small.” She says as long as people keep their septic tank systems properly maintained they should “do the job very successfully with few issues”. Leech Drainage Services also has a Portaloo hire service; and cleans grease traps for a number of commercial clients, mainly in the food sector. It is also a third shareholder of Christchurch company C and C Drainage with whom it works in conjunction for installations, repairs, videoing drains and clearing blockages. “We are pleased with the continued growth of the business and are always on the look out for more skilled, competent people prepared to take on this kind of work.”

Jo Bailey The introduction of the Waste Minimisation Act could help people change the way they think about sewage treatment, says Liz Leech of Leech Drainage Services. “It is something that has to be looked at. Instead of throwing the waste away in a big heap we need to consider what can be utilised and re-used.” For over 30 years, Liz and Warwick Leech have operated Darfield business Leech Drainage Services. The septic tank specialists offer a range of services such as septic tank cleaning, maintenance and servicing, camera investigation, drain clearing and bulk sludge removal. For “many years” they have also specialised in dewatering sludge in bulk quantities, says Liz Leech. This involves putting the sludge from septic tank waste and some sewerage treatment plants through several different processes that filter, treat and remove the water, which can then be applied to farmland. “It is a concept some people find hard to deal with. However when done in an acceptable, safe manner it is a way of constructively using a by-product in the way nature has always intended.” The solid waste can also be dried, treated and incorporated with soil, she says. “We’ve been doing this for several years, so have probably been a bit ahead of our time. However with the Waste Minimisation Act being brought in by government via local councils it is something that needs to be more closely considered.” Cleaning septic tanks may not be considered the most glamorous job, but it is work that “has to be done”, says Liz Leech.

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QUEENSTOWN FOCUS » Queenstown Engineering

Business South / December 2012

New workshop to enhance workflow Karen Phelps Queenstown Engineering is building a new purpose-built workshop on a 1600sqm site in Glenda Drive. Company co-director Allan Foote says the move was prompted by company growth, which had seen it outgrow its existing leased premises. “The new premises will be specially designed for our particular processes to enhance workflow and productivity,” says Foote. “It’s about streamlining manufacturing so we can take on projects that would not have otherwise been possible,” he says. The new building will have a three tonne gantry crane enabling Queenstown Engineering to handle large items with ease. It will also give the capacity to take on larger job as well as multiple projects. The new facility will also have a purpose built abrasive blasting booth and thermal arc spraying booth. “At the moment we are doing our thermal arc spraying in a separate rented shed nearby. “We also have to build some large projects outside in the yard.

“This will bring all our processes inside under one roof and really improve our productivity,” says Foote. The new premises will also include offices and a new showroom, which will allow trade customers to come to the store and purchase construction related consumables including fastenings, bolts and threaded rod. Queenstown Engineering was established in 2003 and sets itself apart as it is owned and managed by qualified engineers. Foote is a qualified fitter and welder with a background in heavy engineering and fitting, certified and coded welding on pipe work, structure and transport repairs, agricultural repairs and maintenance. Justin Taylor, the other company director, has qualifications in fitting, turning and machining and brings extensive experience in structural steel, plant maintenance, transport engineering, certified welding and architectural metalwork. Between them the pair offers more than 40 years of industry experience. Queenstown Engineering manufactures and install steelwork – industrial, structural and architectural. The company services the Wakatipu

basin and the Central Otago region. Based in Queenstown the company currently has seven employees and is Site Safe NZ qualified and actively supports Apprentice Training New Zealand. Foote himself is currently completing his qualification for the new AS2214 structural steel welding supervisor standard. “It’s about keeping up with the latest developments and continually training to ensure we stay ahead of the game,” he says. “This gives us credibility in terms of our quality management and demonstrates our focus on this.” Queenstown Engineering can take projects from start to finish including processing steel ready for installation and undertaking surface coatings in-house giving excellent quality control as well as timing over jobs. “The timing of jobs these days is so crucial to the success of projects,” says Foote. “We can offer a quicker turnaround by doing it all in-house,” he says. Queenstown Engineering has just completed a 3.5 metre, 360 degree spiral staircase for Jervois Steak House in Queenstown, which is owned by MasterChef celebrity chef Simon Gault. “The challenge was getting the staircase through the small restaurant doors and meant it had to be taken inside in sections and fabricated on-site.” Another recent project was a 17 tonne floating jetty for the Hilton Hotel at Kawarau Falls.

The jetty was built on a slipway nearby then floated to the location for installation. At present Queenstwon Engineering is also working on structural steel and metalwork for new homes being constructed at Millbrook Resort and an upgrade of the Queenstown Memorial Hall.

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Ph. 03 442 3036 www.queenstownengineering.co.nz Queenstown Engineering has just completed a 3.5 metre, 360 degree spiral staircase for Jervois Steak House in Queenstown.

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Business South / December 2012

QUEENSTOWN FOCUS » Smith & Sons Queenstown

Renovation specialist finds its niche Karen Phelps As a dedicated specialist renovation company Smith & Sons Queenstown brings advantages for customers, says owner Richard Robinson. “Renovations are very different to a new home build. Because all we do is renovations we have systems and processes in place to get the job done quickly and efficiently,” he says. Smith & Sons is the largest renovation company in Australia and New Zealand giving customers the advantages of better buying power and special supplier deals. Smith & Sons was founded in the Sunshine Coast in Queensland by two qualified builders, an accountant and a marketing consultant. The aim was to fill the gap for a company specialising in renovations as they had noticed a lack of professionalism and complete customer service in the home renovation industry. Since the first Smith & Sons office opened in Maroochydore, Queensland in March 2008 the company has grown quickly. It had over 50 offices open across Australia and New Zealand within four years and New Zealand now has 35 Smith & Sons outlets. The company’s rapid success has been put down to the fact that only the best qualified builders are hand-picked to own and operate local Smith & Sons offices. Robinson says the aim is to ensure clients have an exceptional experience dealing with the company encompassing service, staff, materials and construction. Smith & Sons Queenstown undertakes all manner of renovations from small projects to large. Clients can come to the company with no idea of what they want to a full set of plans. Just some of the services offered include kitchen and bathroom renovations, unit / apartment renovations, commercial fit-outs, adding another storey, patios and decks as well as complete house makeovers. While the builder has a plan to follow on a new home build, renovation work is carried out on an existing building meaning there can be unknown factors for the inexperienced. “Because renovations are all we do day after day we know what to look for and how to spot potential problems early on so we can work around them. This can save our clients a lot of time and money,” says Robinson. Smith & Sons Queenstown offers fixed cost

Smith & Sons Queenstown undertakes all manner of renovations - from small projects to large.

quotes as well as detailed specifications on every project. The company offers a 10 year Master Build Guarantee. The company took out the regional gold award for renovations up to $250,000 in the 2012 Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards. The project that won the company the award was a four bedroom home at Kelvin Heights on the lake front. Smith & Sons Queenstown gave the home a complete interior renovation where only the existing walls and roof remained. Due to difficult access to the site planning was paramount. “We aim to make the renovation process as hassle and stress-free as possible for our clients. We can take care of the whole process from planning to landscaping.”

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ENGINEERING » CES Engineering

Business South / December 2012

Robotic milking has many benefits Jo Bailey Cutting-edge robotic milking systems are gaining favour with New Zealand dairy farmers, says Bert Wierkx of North Canterbury firm, CES Engineering. “We have a number of clients looking seriously at robotic indoor milking systems. “It is quite an investment but it pays itself back in a very short time. Productivity is enhanced, overall operating costs are reduced and profitability is increased through better herd management in the sheds." CES Engineering is based in West Melton with offices in Christchurch and Waikuku. The company designs and builds Europeanstyle sheds around LELY robotic technology from Lely Centre Ashburton, agents for the brand. It has just completed construction of an impressive two-storey shed for Camelot Dairy Farm at Mayfield that incorporates eight A4 Lely Astronaut robots. “One of the main differences with robotic milking is that the cows are milked more in line with their natural behaviour, with as few obstacles as possible. The grass-based milking platform at Camelot sees the cows walk in straight off the paddock, get milked by the robots and walk straight back out again.” The shed has an automatic drafting system that directs each cow into the appropriate laneway and paddock after milking, based on information provided electronically by the robot. One of the biggest features of the shed at Camelot is the 250 sqm viewing area on the second storey that looks down over the cows being milked and out across the paddocks. “It is a very sophisticated shed,” says Wierkx. CES Engineering is currently building a sixrobot shed near Pleasant Point and has several other projects in the pipeline. “The market is growing all the time as technology and techniques continue to develop. There is no cleaner way to milk and the cows are analysed by the robots during milking with weight and milk temperature recorded. “Any deficiencies are picked up and the cow is given the nutrients it needs. If more serious problems are identified, the cows are automatically drafted into a separation area.” Wierkx also builds wintering barns and dairy housing, something he has done since 1997 when he founded the company on the back of the dairy boom in Southland. “I came to New Zealand from Holland 35 years ago and couldn't believe that wintering barns, so widely used in Europe, were not known here.”

CES Engineering designs and builds European-style milking sheds around LELY robotic technology.

He says animal health is improved and feed costs are reduced with the use of wintering barns because the cows don't have to eat to stay warm during winter. “Production increases because the cows are happier and healthier." There is plenty of room in the free stall sheds to enable the animals to roam around inside, and eat and drink when they want, he adds. CES Engineering imports some of the best in Northern European dairy technology to incorporate into the sheds including the JOZ scraper system that automatically scrapes away the slurry without the use of water, offering significant environmental benefits. “Cleaning is a very important aspect of dairy housing and robotic sheds, which have to be kept as clean as possible” Other fittings in the wintering sheds include AgriProm latex cow mattresses and Schurr rotating brushes for the cows to rub against to remove irritation and reduce stress. "Our top priority is to create buildings that cater to the animal's comfort and needs rather than the farmer's. The spin-off for the farmer is that they have healthier, happier and more productive cows."

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Business South / December 2012

ENGINEERING » Wyndham Engineering

Diverse workload all part of the job Jo Bailey Steve Geary enjoys the diversity and complexity of the projects that come through his workshop at Wyndham Engineering. The general and structural engineering specialists work on everything from large forestry machines, truck decks, structural steel and hydraulic projects, down to making a simple shower handrail. “Our vast scope of work requires lateral thinking, problem solving and keeping up to date with new technologies,” says Geary. “The most satisfying aspect of the job is working with our customers to come up with a solution for their individual projects,” he says. Steve Geary has run Wyndham Engineering since 1988 after taking over the already established engineering business of Garth D Stewart Ltd (GDS). “In those days the company was focused on mass manufacturing, mainly of hay and feedlot wagons. However we quickly refocused to a broader scope of work, and meeting client’s specialised needs.” At peak the company employed around eight staff, but is now operated by Steve and his son Mark (who joined the company in 2000). “I prefer the business to be the size it is now. It’s easier to manage and we’ve never been without work.” The company also employs a specialist panel beater and painter to operate its abrasive blasting and painting operation. “Our fully enclosed facility complements the industrial side of the business and also completes general panel and paint work.” Wyndham Engineering carries out manufacturing, repairs and maintenance work for a broad client base including transport operators, contractors, the forestry sector, dairy farmers, sheep farmers and the general public. “We enjoy working with a good solid base of customers who keep coming back. It’s great being part of a small community. We even fixed a cake mixer for a local lady once, and the next day she brought us in a cake.” The company is a hydraulic repair and maintenance specialist and a sub-supplier of Jesco Hydraulic, the main Hydralink agent in southern Southland. “We do a lot of hydraulic work including making up our own hydraulic hoses. We also supply hydraulic components direct to our customers at the same price they can purchase them in Invercargill. “Jesco Hydraulic is also a good back up for technical advice which further benefits our customers.” Wyndham Engineering also sells a comprehensive range of engineering supplies including nuts, bolts, V belts, bearings and housings, and steel.

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“If we don’t have something in stock we can usually access it for our customers within a few hours,” says Geary. The company’s biggest project this year has been to convert three large heavy machines for forestry use including the addition of extensive steel guarding on the machines and safety frames on the cabs. The company is currently manufacturing some

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large steel beams for a new two-storey home, as well as some big rafters to brace the second storey. The Geary’s are focused on customer service and keeping client’s project costs down. “We try to complete the job as economically as possible for our clients without compromising on quality.” After 25 years in business it is a philosophy that continues to work well for the company.

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JOINERY » Lloyds Joinery

Business South / December 2012

Focus on design brings its rewards Kelly Deeks Lloyds Joinery is looking forward to another busy year with plenty of commercial and residential projects on the books to complete around Southland and Otago. Company director Lloyd Richardson says his personal interest in design and his company’s focus on design is what makes the business stand out from the competition, from high-end and technical projects to affordable, domestic joinery. “Our staff are also critical to our success and we couldn’t pull off the designs we do without them,” he says. “We have a very capable team that applies very good attention to detail, and that is everyone from our administration to our trades people and apprentices.” Richardson believes training apprentices is critical to the industry. “It’s getting harder and harder, with more costs involved for both the employer and the apprentice, and changes will have to be made to see any improvement in this area,” he says. “It seems that all funding is going to the polytechs, not to the employer or the apprentice where it matters. Does the polytech create jobs or does the employer?” With 15 staff in total at Lloyds Joinery, Richardson currently employs two apprentices, with a third recently coming out of his time, and is looking to take on another. Lloyds Joinery prides itself on going the extra mile when it comes to kitchen design and manufacture, and the company’s kitchens are frequently featured in magazines. The company’s efforts were also recognised in 2010 when it took out the country's top kitchen design honour for an architecturally designed Queenstown holiday home. The winning kitchen at the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA) Design Awards in 2010 was described as having perfect symmetry and beautiful workmanship.

Our staff are critical to our success and we couldn’t pull off the designs we do without them.”

It won the best kitchen design award and the regional kitchen, southern award, and was also awarded the Heart of the Home Section at the Master Builders National Finals later that year. Richardson says 2010 was a very good year for Lloyds Joinery. “The design that won was very minimal with a lot of hidden detail, so it is a credit to our staff to have pulled it off as you can’t get away with anything,” he says. Lloyds Joinery also had another kitchen in the four finalists for supreme NKBA award. As the reigning winner, Richardson was asked to judge the NKBA Awards in 2011. “I found the process interesting, and felt I needed to take the time to make sure that each entry was judged fairly,” he says. “A lot of time and expense goes into entering a competition of this calibre. “There can be such a fine line between the entries which won an award to some who just missed out. “I was pleased that there were a good number of entries in spite of the economic climate .... the awards are important to keep the standard of kitchen and bathroom design to a high standard.” Lloyds Joinery is currently working on some projects which involve very technical and labour intensive joinery methods. An ornate, traditionally styled kitchen for a brand new house is bucking the minimalist fashion trend with carved corbels, fluted columns and panelled doors with beadwork. “This style of kitchen is something our client has always wanted, and everyone working on it has found the design and building satisfying and interesting,” Richardson says. Current fashion trends in design have seen requests increase for media rooms, and as such Lloyds Joinery is designing a lot of built in units around televisions and fireplaces. These units are designed in such a way that there are no handles, and the overall effect is a wall with secret opening panels. “We have to go that extra mile in designing and building to achieve this effect. We are using push catch and electronic, self-opening drawers more and more to achieve the ‘no handle’ look.” Commercial work is increasing in Invercargill at this time of year, and Lloyds Joinery is working on motel unit fit-outs, education projects, and a large retirement village project where the company is designing and building 22 kitchens.

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Business South / December 2012

JOINERY » Murray Hewitt Joinery

Old-fashioned approach guarantees satisfaction Karen Phelps Having the ability to cover all aspects of joinery gives Murray Hewitt Joinery (MHJ) the edge, says company director Murray Hewitt. “Builders like to come to us because we can do it all. They can deal with one company rather than having to go to several different sources to cover all their joinery needs for a project,” says Hewitt. “We can get a better overall look for the project as we are doing all the joinery. It also gives us better control over quality and timing of jobs.” Hewitt, a qualified joiner, has seen steady growth since he started MHJ in 1998. He is proud that the company continues to work with the vast majority of clients it had when it first started. Hewitt describes his company as “an old fashioned joinery business”, where time and tested skills are used to produce high quality joinery. The company’s joinery services include entry doors, exterior doors and windows, interior doors, stairs and hand rails, wardrobes and shelving, bathroom vanities, kitchens and laundries, lounge entertainment units and commercial. Due to the high levels of quality and service the company has built a solid reputation completing for projects for high end architecturally designed homes.

Hewitt says the management team has more than 30 years of experience in the industry. “This means advice is always readily available to ensure the client gets what they require from start to finish. We are also big on effective communication to ensure the task is managed and conducted correctly.” Projects recently completed by MHJ include a fitout for Arjee Bhajee restaurant in Christchurch and the Affinity store at Northlands Shopping Centre. MHJ also travels further afield and has recently completed a kitchen in Bluff, the cookhouse in Molesworth Station and a kitchen for a bach in Motueka. Hewitt says continuing to maintain extremely high levels of quality are a focus, which is why MHJ is a registered Master Joiner. The company employs four staff and is looking at expanding. But Hewitt says he will keep the company at the right size to be able to continue to offer a personal service to customers. “Our skilled team of experienced craftspeople takes pride in what they do and ensure a quality product every time. “We have an extensive joinery portfolio where solid timber plays an important part in our product range and is something we are passionate about. “We work with a broad range of products so there will always be a wide range to choose from.”

Timber plays an important role in much of the work of Murray Hewitt Joinery.

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TRANSPORT » Centra Motor Co / Rangiora Auto Groom

Business South / December 2012

Ticking away nicely in Rangiora Jo Bailey

Complete car sales and service Kelly Deeks Mid Canterbury’s only Hyundai service centre, Centra Motor Co Ashburton, now brings car sales and service together in one location on State Highway One in Tinwald, with the purchase of the Mead Motors service department two years ago. The company was re-established after the purchase at the fully redeveloped former Mead Motors site, which now offers clients a modern customer lounge, complete with a television, free Wifi, and tea and coffee which can be enjoyed while their vehicles receive the gold treatment in the workshop. Offering their clients the total package is important to Centra team. Managing director Amos Wheeler says this is why the integration of the service department will ensure that the same fantastic service is received. “With three qualified technicians, our workshop is dedicated to providing quality, efficient service,” he says. “The original staff of Peter, Neville, Damian and Robin still remain, meaning that the same great service you once received, is still available today.” The service department and parts department carry genuine Hyundai Parts and is well known for great expertise and advice. Centra can issue Warrant of Fitnesses, including an efficient and convenient Saturday morning service, and also LPG Certificates. “Because the technicians issuing the WOF’s are skilled in a large range of vehicles, if there is an issue

that needs repairing, they can advise our clients of the problem and offer a solution,” Wheeler says. “Often minor problems can be fixed on the spot, with the end result meaning less time off the road.” If extensive repairs or servicing need to be undertaken, Centra can offer a late model Hyundai courtesy car, to help prevent clients from being without a vehicle while the job is being completed. The Centra team is kept informed and trained in the advances of new model Hyundai. The expertise and knowledge of their highly trained parts and service team is based on their extensive collective experience. They are experts on the full range of Hyundai models, from the classic Getz to today's i45. With a wide selection of parts, Centra can usually fill orders immediately. However, if the part is not in stock, Centra’s efficient parts network ensures orders can be filled quickly. Centra also stocks a range of new batteries and tyres, and is able to offer advice on the best fit for any vehicle. “No matter what your budget, we can offer a range to suit every pocket, from high performance to cost effective, there is a tyre to fit every ride,” Wheeler says. The next stage of development for Centra Motor Co Ashburton is already in the pipelines, with Wheeler in the process of establishing a new vehicle sales department offering the latest range of Hyundai cars. “Hyundai is the fastest growing automotive brand in the world. It’s product gets better year after year.”

Preferred supplier of quality Caltex lubricants congratulate Centra Motor Company on the refurbishment of their workshop facilities.

David and Pam Dacombe are a couple of quiet achievers in the North Canterbury business community. For more than 32 years their panel beating company, Rangiora Auto Groom, has enjoyed a steady flow of work through its doors, such is the regard with which it is held. “We’ve been lucky. Things keep ticking away nicely,” says David Dacombe. As the name suggests, Rangiora Auto Groom did car grooming as well as panel beating work when it was founded. However the focus is solely on panel and paint jobs these days. For three decades the Dacombes ran the business in partnership with Derek Crowe, from the purpose built premises in Newnham Street they built together 25 years ago. Two years ago they took over the business entirely on Crowe’s retirement. “It was a big step for Pam and I after being in the partnership for so long. But I wasn’t ready to retire just yet.” Rangiora Auto Groom has a team of skilled panel beaters and painters who work on all makes of cars and light commercial vehicles. “We could have grown bigger over the years but prefer to keep the business at this level, with a small, dedicated group who work well together,” he says. Rangiora Auto Groom offers a full panel and paint service including rust work and chassis straightening. It uses the premium PPG brand of automotive paints to ensure the best possible finish. Courtesy cars are available for its customer’s convenience. David Dacombe says the company’s chassis straightening plant is used less these days, as insurance companies appear to be writing off more damaged cars than they did in the past. This is just one of the changes, apart from the rapidly evolving technology, he has witnessed after so long in the industry. “There have been some big changes over the years. Almost all the assessing work is now done digitally, by taking photos and sending them to the assessor. The days of on-site assessors have just about come to an end.” Most of Rangiora Auto Groom’s clients come from the North Canterbury area, some as far afield as Cheviot, Culverden and Oxford. Pam Dacombe, who does all the company’s administration, says virtually all their work is from insurance claims apart from a small amount of private assignments. “We also do a bit of restoration work on classic cars which is something we enjoy.” The couple have restored one of their Ford Model A’s and an old fire engine from the Rangiora Volunteer Fire Brigade, of which David Dacombe was a member for 35 years. “We have met a lot of great people through the fire brigade, and the Canterbury Vintage Car Club and Model

David and Pam Dacombe - still rolling along. A Club with whom we regularly go on runs and rallies.” The Dacombes also enjoy being in business in a small community, a tradition they have carried on from David Dacombe’s father Maurie who ran M D Dacombe Ltd panel shop in Rangiora for many years. “I worked for Dad for a while when I was younger then decided to go truck driving. After a couple of years Derek asked me if I wanted to start a partnership as Rangiora Auto Groom as he had worked for my Dad as a painter and I was a panel beater. It was a challenge I was ready to take on and it’s pretty satisfying to still be operating over 32 years later.” Rangiora Auto Groom, 28 Newnham Street, Rangiora. Phone 313 8276

Toyota Hilux & Landcruiser Specialists Freephone 0800 444 589 www.lineside.co.nz P 03 313 5257 F 03 313 5896 600 Lineside Road, Southbrook, Rangiora

K OLLER & H ASSALL

Bells Auto Electrical Services Ltd

C H A R T E R E D

For absolutely every auto electrical and air conditioning need.

A C C O U N T A N T S

No Fuss Accounting for all.

We’re proud to support Centra & Mead Motors Phone 03 308 5222

4 Watson Street, Riverside Industrial Estate

THE AUTOMOTIVE PARTS PROFESSIONALS PANELS - ENGINES - LIGHTS - RIMS - TYRES

YOU NAME IT, WE’VE GOT IT!

- Direct importers from Japan - 13 staff with total of 70+ years experience

PHONE 0800 767 267

- Overnight parcel freight NZ wide - One of the South Island’s largest parts suppliers

40 Robinson Street, Ashburton

ross@roscos.net.nz

We provide a full range of Accounting Services including:       

Business Accounting Farm Accounting Business Start-up Advice Income Tax Returns Goods & Service Tax Returns Trust & Estate Tax Returns Advice on Employment Matters

For a Professional & Personal Service Contact Brent, Alun or Kathy 267 High Street, Rangiora Telephone 03 313 8103 www.kollerhassall.co.nz

Proud to support Rangiora Auto Groom ltd

Going underground with safety Underground locating specialist Detect Services is making the most of some of the best radar detection technology available in New Zealand and putting it to work all over the country in both the ultra-fast broadband roll-out and earthquake strengthening work. Detect Services was formed in 1993 by Graham Mist, who has been involved with subsurface locating for more than 30 years. Primarily operating as a subsurface utility locating service in the electricity industry, Detect Services has since progressed to offer a complete underground locating service. Today the company offers a comprehensive locating service in New Zealand and the Pacific for all utility owners including the energy industry, the oil and petrochemical industries, and consultants using the most up to date ground penetrating radar and radio frequency equipment available. Detect Services has been heavily involved in recent earthquake strengthening projects, with state-of-the-art concrete imaging radar equipment allowing its technicians to establish the level of steel reinforcement contained within any type of concrete structure. The company has also been busy this year with the roll-out of the government’s ultra-fast broadband (UFB) plan, bringing fibre even closer to homes and businesses all around New Zealand. With ground penetrating radar and radio frequency locating equipment, Detect Services works alongside drilling

companies to ensure new cables can be laid without hitting existing utility services. Mist says Detect Services’ focus is to prevent the damage of underground plant, and few companies have a stronger track record or expertise in this field. “We minimise the situation of people damaging underground plant when we’ve been on site. “We want to stop people from damaging underground plant, it saves our clients a lot of money, and keeps the utility owners very happy.” Detect Services experience in underground locating, and in using the associated equipment, has Mist consulting as a trainer in New Zealand and Australia for other companies on how to use their own locating equipment. In conjunction with some of these companies, as well as locating equipment supplier Avo New Zealand, Detect Services is making steps towards establishing a New Zealand Standard for location services. Avo New Zealand managing director Trevor Lord says the idea has been eight years in the making, and over the past couple of years, the ultra-fast broadband roll-out in Australia and New Zealand has forced the issue. “The amount of work being done in large centres is the biggest risk to buried infrastructure we’ve ever seen,” says Lord. “What we’ll be able to provide here is a method that’s been carefully worked out and proven, based on a lot of field experience.”

DETECT SERVICES

Detect Services offers a complete underground locating service.

Concrete Imaging Radar Concrete Imaging Radar Company NZthe with theConcrete latest Concrete Imaging Radaravailable Company in NZinwith latest Imaging Radar equipment equipment look reinforcing in concrete to look foravailable reinforcingtosteel in for concrete buildingssteel and floor slabs. buildings andGround floor slabs. Penetrating Radar Surveys Ground Penetrating Radar Surveys.

Leading Subsurface utility locating company in NZ Underground Locating Services

Specialist Skills:

Following is a list of some of our core services. • Ground Penetrating Radar Surveys • Underground Cable & Utility Locating • Utility Service Locating and Mapping • Locate depth, position and spatial orientation of Metallic and Non Metallic pipes, cables, drums, tanks and culverts etc. • "As Built” documentation & Drafting • Concrete Slab thickness estimates • Locating ducts and cables in concrete floors • Rebar pattern identification and locations • Radio Frequency locating and surveys • Oil and Gas flow line surveys • Site surveys • Locating unmarked grave sites • Locating buried valves • Engineering Services

We have over thirty years of experience and practical knowledge in Subsurface Locating. Experienced and skilled including a sound knowledge and familiarity of the various types of specialist locating equipment we have available. Detect Services has developed a competitive edge in the use of New Technology and in utility locating procedures. There is no substitute for experience. Linkages with specialist national and international organisations are also maintained and developed to ensure clients receive superior service.

PO Box 5114 New Plymouth, New Zealand

Phone: 06 751 1126 Fax: 06 751 1152 Mobile 027 445 4860 or 021 262 4337 Email detect.services@xtra.co.nz

www.detectservices.co.nz

ASK US ABOUT OUR HOUSE & LAND PACKAGES

Your Home.Your Way. Signature Homes has been earning the trust and respect of New Zealanders since 1983 and local owners, Rhys and Mike Gould, lead a team with over 100 years combined experience in the construction industry. Should you decide to build with Signature Homes, you’ll discover a great many advantages, not the least of which is their flexibility and personal involvement - from the time you meet them, through to the moment they hand over the keys to your new home. You can create your home with their designers, adapt designs from their collections, or bring your own architect along with you. No matter what, Signature Homes will always work hard to ensure your new home lives up to your expectations in every way. Signature Homes also offer New Zealand’s most extensive building guarantees, which back all the work they do, ensuring you don’t suffer from unexpected cost overruns that can completely take the gloss off your home building project. For their earthquake-affected clients, Signature Homes offer a range of options including a specialist Knock Down + Rebuild service and House & Land Packages.

0800 8444 88 BU I LDING NE W Z EAL AN D H O MES SI N CE