Business South May/June 2014 Issue by Waterford Press Limited

May/June 2014

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Central Otago Focus 12-page lift-out

A2 milk making inroads offshore Hugh de Lacy Getting fresh milk into China from Australia and New Zealand by air is on the a2 Milk Company’s horizon as it brushes off an apparently failed attempt by a global dairy giant Parmalat to kneecap its growth in Australia. Formerly the A2 Corporation, listed a2 Milk Company has carved out a 10% share in dollar terms of the Australian fresh milk market at the expense of, among others, the Italian-based multinational Parmalat. Parmalat recently hired Australian public relations company Crosby Textor to plant stories in the Australian media aimed at undermining the as-yet-unproven science behind A2 milk. The plot appears to have backfired with media on both sides of the Tasman not only rejecting Crosby Textor’s

overtures to carry anti-A2 items, but reporting them as such. Australia has been the major success story for a2 Milk which supplies fresh milk to the United Kingdom and Australasian markets, and infant formula to China. The company is in the advanced stages of planning a sally into the United States fresh milk market using locally sourced supplies of milk which are free of the A1 beta-casein protein that A2 buyers believe cause digestive problems in many users of standard A1 milk. Chief executive Geoff Babidge said he had been aware for some time “that there’s been activity in the[Australian] marketplace by at least one competitor”. “One looks at that with interest,” he said. “Our position is that all dairy is good for the dairy industry.

“It’s a little surprising that a competitor would be putting effort in in that particular way – we don’t see it as particularly constructive to the dairy industry in total.” Otherwise, he said, the company was unfazed by the failed media campaign which Parmalat appears to have launched to stop the erosion in sales of its long-running Pauls fresh milk brand that it believes a2 is causing. Launched in 2007, a2 is now the only milk product to rate among the top ten items sold by Australia’s leading Woolworths and Coles supermarket chains. In the UK, a2 has recently revamped its existing joint-venture partnership with grocery giant Robt Wiseman, bringing aboard as distributors leading supermarkets Tesco and Waitrose, mid-level Morrisons, and on-line company Ocado. The US is the next major market a2 plans to

tackle, and after that it will be looking at marketing fresh milk into China where it already sells a branded infant formula manufactured in Canterbury by Synlait Milk. “We’ve had approaches by [Chinese] parties about the opportunity for both UHT long-life and fresh milk from Australia and New Zealand,” Babidge said. Bulk liquid milk was already being transported by sea for re-packaging in China, and there were possibilities for it to be air-freighted. “This is able to be done based on the price points that consumers are prepared to pay for milk from Australia or New Zealand,” he said. Aside from the impending launch into the US, however, the company’s main focus was on continuing to expand the Australian market share, while developing the UK market from a small business into a large one.

Big truck use on the rise More and more of the longer, heavier 50MAX trucks are appearing on New Zealand roads as a $45 million nationwide bridge strengthening programme clears the way for them. 50MAX trucks accounted for around 500 of the total of 4150 permits to use the country’s roading network that were issued by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) last year for High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs). Depending on the size and weight of the vehicle, along with the suitability of the route, these permits are either for specific routes, general network access or the HPMV network, which is being developed through the bridge strengthening programme. The 50MAXs are a new generation of truck, having an extra axle compared to standard 44 tonne vehicle combinations, and operators can apply online for permits to use them on specific routes. The strengthening of no fewer than 29 bridges on each island through the HPMV investment programme is opening access across almost the entire highway system. The investment programme, to be completed by 2016, aims to deliver a strategic nationwide network of 4500km of roads suitable for full HPMVs, allowing more freight to be moved with fewer trucks, according to the Transport Agency’s freight portfolio director, Harry Wilson. The aim is also to further enhance road safety, on the principle that fewer trucks on the road will mean fewer accidents, Wilson said. With about 70% of all freight in New Zealand – as assessed by weight and distance moved consigned by road, the Government hopes that the uptake of HPMVs will reduce the total number of truck trips by between 14% and 20%.

INSIDE

Synlait expanding at Dunsandel..... New Zealand dairy company Synlait Milk is investing $200 million in capital projects at its Dunsandel plant in Canterbury. A new lactoferrin manufacturing plant, 22,500sqm capacity dry store, and a blending and canning facility will all be operational by June, with plans already underway for a new full-service quality testing laboratory, administration

New crane for Lyttelton Port - PAGE 2

Boom times for Selwyn - PAGE 3

block, and a large scale infant formula spray drying plant. Neil Betteridge, general manager manufacturing, says that the developments cement Synlait’s reputation as a premium infant formula and nutritional milk powder manufacturer, with facilities that will take the company well into the future. Story page 5

Tax and the Budget - PAGE 4

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May/June 2014

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Business South

Central Otago Focus 12-page lift-out

INSIDE

New crane for Lyttelton Port - PAGE 2

Boom times for Selwyn - PAGE 3

Tax and the Budget - PAGE 4

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The Liebherr crane, made in Ireland, will be assembled on site at the Lyttelton Container Terminal.

New crane arrives for Lyttelton

Infrastructure expansion at Lyttelton Port of Christchurch (LPC) has reached another milestone with the arrival of their fourth ship to shore gantry crane. The Liebherr crane, made in Ireland, arrived on general cargo ship, the Langeoog, and will be assembled on site at the Lyttelton Container Terminal. Assembly is expected to take eight weeks and will be completed by Rich Rigging, a New Zealand subcontractor of Liebherr. The new crane, with a heavy lift hook capacity

of 80 tonnes and outreach of 40 metres, is expected to have an immediate impact on productivity. LPC Chief Executive, Peter Davie, said the new crane highlights the port’s commitment to facilitate trade across the South Island. “This is another major investment in port infrastructure and will increase crane intensity and significantly boost the efficiency of our container operations,” said Davie. “The new crane has been purchased in response to continued strong growth.

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Massive jump in Chinese arrivals in Chch

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112 Wrights Road, Addington PO Box 37 346, Christchurch www.waterfordpress.co.nz These conditions are prescribed for the sake of understanding between the Company and its clients. Advertising is charged for on the basis of space taken up using a standard tabloid page. Actual space may be reduced during the printing process but this will effect all advertisers equally so no credit will be given for any reduction in size due to processing. The Company reserves the right to alter, change or omit entirely any advertisement or article that it considers to be objectionable or which may contravene any law. In the event of a failure on the part of the Company to insert advertising as instructed the Company may publish the advertisement at the first available subsequent reasonable date unless the advertisement features date sensitive material. Every care shall be taken to publish the advertisement in accordance with the advertisers instructions as to page and position but the Company reserves the right for whatever reason to place advertising in a different position and in doing so shall incur no liability whatsoever. Advertisers must advise Business immediately of any error or omission in advertisements and shall work constructively to remedy the situation which in the first instance shall be a rerun of the corrected advertisement in the next available issue of Business. Where advertisement proofs have been faxed or mailed to the client 48 hours prior to the nominated printing cutoff time acquiesce shall be taken as confirmation and acceptance. Corrections made by telephone shall be accepted but the Company reserves the right to decide whether a further proof should be faxed or mailed to the client. Accounts for advertising are due for payment within seven days of publication of the newspaper. Accounts not paid within this time may incur a penalty of 3% per month until the account is paid. Any debt collection costs incurred by the Company will be added to the account of the debtor. Views and opinions expressed in Business North are not necessarily those of the editors, Waterford Press Ltd or publisher. Business North welcomes contributions from freelance writers & journalists. All articles published at editors discretion. Business North accepts no responsibilty for loss of photos or manuscripts.

“Once commissioned we will be in a stronger position to fully service a second container berth, work off schedule vessels and accommodate service growth. “This is a huge advantage for our customers and the businesses they support.” The latest investment brings the total number of cranes to four and is part of a $26 million investment in infrastructure which includes seven forklifts and eight new diesel electric Liebherr straddles. The new crane is expected to be in operation in mid-July 2014.

Corporate jets lined up at Queenstown Airport.

Queenstown eying more private jets Peter Owens Queenstown Airport has opened a new mini corporate jet terminal, to cater for the growing demand from well-heeled private jet owners. Already this year, 24 foreign-owned private jets have landed at Queenstown Airport. The construction of the facility on leased land at Queenstown Airport was announced by Queenstown Airport Corporation in November last year. t has been developed by Air Centre One and Wellington-based Capital Jet Services Limited The new mini-terminal is situated close to Queenstown Airport’s international baggage reclaim area. A team employed by new company, Queenstown Jet Services Limited, will provide premium services for corporate jet passengers arriving and departing from the airport.

Air Centre One owner Robin Leach says there is a strong forward demand for corporate jets to visit Queenstown. “We’ll attract more of these people now. It’s good for the economy, good for Queenstown and good for everybody,” he said. The facility is only seen as an interim solution to the problem of servicing corporate jets and plans are already being drawn for a larger facility in about three years’ time. Queenstown Airport Corporation chief executive Scott Paterson, said the new facility was an exciting first step in enhancing the airport’s premium facilities. “While this is an interim solution for the next three years pending the resolution of our land acquisition plans, it’s a big step forward in enhancing our corporate passenger experience and positioning Queenstown as a key New Zealand gateway forpremium visitors.”

New statistics reveal Christchurch Airport to be New Zealand’s fastest growing point of entry for Chinese visitors. The figures from Statistics New Zealand show Christchurch to have had a 60 percent increase in Chinese passengers in the past six months. Christchurch Airport general manager of aeronautical business development, Matthew Findlay, says the statistics underline the fascination Chinese travellers have discovered for the South Island. “At these growth rates, modelling indicates that more Chinese will travel via international hubs than domestic ones to travel to and from the South Island,” says Findlay. “The new Chinese government travel regulations of last October discourage the low-value very short stay products which fuelled early growth from China. “Visitors to the South Island spend more and stay longer on average – the average South Island stay is 25 days versus 13 days in the North Island. “This highlights the enduring value the South Island offers New Zealand’s tourism outcomes.” Findlay says the increase in Chinese tourism expenditure in the South Island benefits more than just tourism. “These new figures clearly show that the South Island as the site of the fastest growing Chinese expenditure in the country, up 74 percent year on year. “There is no doubt Christchurch Airport’s growth means the gains from Chinese tourism will be widely spread across all regions in the South Island, which is great news for regional economies and employment.”

Business South

News »

Izone testament to Selywn growth Jo Bailey Fourteen years after the idea was first “sketched out on the back on an envelope” the Izone Industrial Park is having a major impact on the local economy, says Selwyn District Council mayor, Kelvin Coe. “We are delighted with where the development is at,” says Coe. “The council’s vision from those very early days was for Izone to provide economic and job opportunities for the district (and particularly Rolleston). “It is fair to say this vision has been realised with the details evolving as time has gone on.” Around 70 percent of developed land in the 180 hectare development has now been sold with more good stock available in the recently completed Stage 6, and Stage 7, which is zoned and soon to be developed. Coe says growing numbers of people who work at Izone are also settling at Rolleston and its nearby surrounds. The Canterbury earthquakes have also driven growth in the thriving Selwyn town, now one of the fastest growing in New Zealand. The population has doubled from 5,000 in 2006 to over 10,000 in 2013, and is expected to reach 20,000 by 2030. Two master plans to guide the future development of Rolleston over the next 20 years were recently adopted by Selwyn District Council. The Rolleston Town Centre Masterplan is focused on developing a town centre and main street at the heart of Rolleston, and to provide new facilities and public places including a library, community and technology centre and town square. A total of 19 hectares of retail and commercial land is included in the plan. The second master plan outlines the development of Foster Recreation Park as the largest sport and recreation park in Selwyn. Coe says that these master plans will “future proof” Rolleston for additional growth. “They have been based around the three-legged stool concept for creating a vibrant community good urban design, good work opportunities, and good recreational opportunities,” says Coe. The council has also released its Draft District Development Strategy, which includes a number

The development of Izone Industrial Park has been a major force in the progress of the booming Selwyn region. of proposals to guide development of the wider Selwyn District. These include developing area plans for Darfield and Leeston; encouraging more businesses and services to set up locally; and ensuring the continuing provision of high quality community facilities, schools and support services for residents.

The new aquatic centre at Rolleston is part of the drive to enhance community facilities in Selwyn.

“The council’s vision from those very early days was for Izone to provide economic and job opportunities for the district (and particularly Rolleston). It is fair to say this vision has been realised with the details evolving as time has gone on.” “Millions have already been spent in education in Selwyn in recent years to accommodate the substantial growth in school rolls, with several of the local schools opening new teaching blocks,” says Coe. “A new primary school is opening at Rolleston in 2016 and a new high school in 2017 which will also ease some of the pressure on existing schools.” The strong growth of Rolleston, Lincoln, Prebbleton and West Melton continues, with a ripple effect into small townships such as Darfield, Leeston and Southbridge. Another part of the Council’s strategy is to develop design guidelines and standards to ensure a high standard of new subdivisions in the district, and a greater range of housing choice for local residents. The rural sector is growing too, with dairy companies Fonterra, Synlait and Westland Milk all investing in the region. “Council is supporting development in rural areas to increase rural activity. “The first sod was recently turned for the Central

Plains Water Scheme that I believe will do for the rural community what Izone is doing for the urban areas.” Coe says the current and future growth of the Selwyn District would not be possible without the Council’s investment in the Pines II wastewater treatment plant. The multi-million dollar plant, sited to the west of Rolleston, should service the expected growth of Springston, Prebbleton, Lincoln, Rolleston and West Melton for the next 30 years. “We couldn’t accept the growth that has come into the district without this plant.” Although the Selwyn District has faced “pretty traumatic and challenging times” since the earthquakes, the strong development of the region is a big plus, says Coe. “It is good, not just in terms of the number of new people and houses in the district, but also the better infrastructure, recreational facilities and shops which are being developed. “These all add to the attractiveness of Selwyn as a place to live.” • Izone expansion continues - page 8

Business South

NEWS »

Any tax changes in the Budget? Finance Minister Bill English delivered his 2014 Budget on 15 May 2014. The Budget forecast a surplus of $372 million. Amongt the many provisions contained in the Budget there were a number of tax changes. Start-up companies will be able to cashout a certain level of tax losses resulting from qualifying research and development expenditure. This cash out will be initially capped at $500,000 of tax losses (i.e. $140,000 at 28% tax rate) and will eventually increase to a maximum of $2 million (i.e. $560,000 at 28%). The two main eligibility criteria are that 20% of the company’s payroll expenditure must be on R&D (known as the “wage intensity threshold”), and the company must be carrying out eligible R&D as defined in the accounting standard NZIAS 38. These rules will apply to income years beginning on or after 1 April 2015. The administration of the initiative is still under consideration. The intention is to create a process that enables these companies to easily comply with the requirements of the policy. The Budget also announced some decisions made with respect to certain types of black hole expenditure. Black hole expenditure is expenditure that no tax deduction is available for. A deduction will be allowed for R&D that results in a depreciable intangible asset. Capitalised development expenditure that relates to a patent, patent application or plant variety rights will be included as part of the depreciable costs of the relevant depreciable intangible asset that results. A deduction will be allowed for R&D that does not result in a depreciable intangible asset. A one-off tax deduction will be allowed for capitalised development expenditure when the intangible asset to which it relates is written off for accounting purposes, for taxpayers that have developed intangible assets that are not depreciable for tax purposes. Registered designs and industrially applied copyrights will now be added to schedule 14 and will therefore be treated as depreciable intangible property.

Don MacKenzie

Successful software development for use in one’s own business is clarified as depreciable capital expenditure. There has been increased funding to bolster tax compliance. The Budget allocates $132 million to Inland Revenue over the next five years to bolster tax compliance activities and for chasing up unfiled returns. Of this, $48.6 million will help Inland Revenue undertake these activities, with the remainder being used to cover tax being written off when it is unlikely to be paid. The Government has repealed cheque duty with effect from 1 July 2014. This means that the 5 cents duty per cheque will not be payable on new cheque books issued from 1 July 2014. For babies born on or after 1 April 2015, the Government has increased the parental tax credit from $150 a week to $220 a week, and extended the payment period from eight weeks to 10 weeks. And finally there will likely be a decrease in ACC levies. The Budget indicates ACC is on track to provide further levy reductions of around $480 million in 2015/16. Final decisions on the levies will be made after public consultation by ACC. Depending on the outcome of this consultation, the average levy for a private motor vehicle could fall by around $130 a year from 1 July 2015. Whilst none of these changes are earth shattering, they are generally taxpayer friendly.

you could print your postage at home?

Don MacKenzie (Partner - Deloitte)

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The Budget also announced some decisions made with respect to certain types of black hole expenditure. Black hole expenditure is expenditure that no tax deduction is available for.

Now, you can sort your postage when it suits you and drop it off at a PostShop or post box for sending. Better still, we’ve thought about other ways we can help you.

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Business South

PRIMARY INDUSTRY » Synlait Milk

Synlait expanding Dunsandel plant Jo Bailey New Zealand dairy company Synlait Milk is investing $200 million in capital projects at its Dunsandel plant in Canterbury. A new lactoferrin manufacturing plant; 22,500sqm capacity dry store; and blending and canning facility will all be operational by June, with plans already underway for a new full-service quality testing laboratory; administration block; and a large scale infant formula spray drying plant. Neil Betteridge, general manager manufacturing, says that the developments cement Synlait’s reputation as a premium infant formula and nutritional milk powder manufacturer, with facilities that will take the company well into the future.

“Our focus is on continuing to increase the proportion of value-added products in our ingredients business as well as the sales volumes of our infant formula and nutritional products,” says Betteridge. “We also plan to increase production capacity by 40 percent. The new facilities will help us to achieve these growth initiatives.” Commercial production of lactoferrin, a highvalue minor milk protein used in infant formula and adult nutritional products, is planned to commence in March. The development of the plant is part of the dairy processor’s push towards increasing its offering of value-added products. “This is the next stage of the journey with our infant formula customers who we’ve worked with closely over the last three years.

“We will use the lactoferrin in our own products but can also offer it to our customers as a standalone nutraceutical. It made sense for us to offer both solutions.” Betteridge says the extraction membranes and separation technologies used in the plant could present Synlait with more opportunities in the nutraceuticals market. “If we can prove to customers we can deliver on this solution, it will hopefully open the door to some new opportunities that we are currently investigating.”

The 22,500sqm drystore with containerisation plant is the company’s biggest undertaking to date, with handover due in late March. “The warehouse will give us much greater storage capacity with the containerisation plant enabling us to load our product straight into containers on-site. “Our staff will be the last eyes on the product before it is shipped overseas, which will create supply chain efficiencies and give us total control over the process.” • to page 6

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Business South

PRIMARY INDUSTRY » Synlait Milk

Expansion at Dunsandel milk factory • From page 5 Betteridge says that Synlait will also be able to unload inward containers under its own roof, something it hasn’t been able to do before. The new canning and blending line at the plant, should be fully operational by June, and will enable Synlait to fully control its packaging and supply chain. Laboratory testing is also carried out in Auckland, but from February next year, some of these services will be completed in a “state-of the art” full-service quality testing laboratory to be constructed at Dunsandel. Betteridge says food customers around the world are becoming more demanding when it comes to quality standards. “This facility will enable us to carry out everything from chemical and physical property testing to full microbiological testing using the latest technologies.” In addition to quality testing, the integrated facilities will also support new product development, including the ability to conduct pilot scale trials, and will allow for sensory analysis to ensure the needs of Synlait’s customers are met. ”The new laboratory will enable us to provide faster turnaround for our customers, and also help to expand our knowledge on milk supply, the ingredients we use and the quality of our products,” says Betteridge. An extensive administration block is being constructed on top of the laboratory facilities, incorporating extra capacity to support the company’s growth.

Synlait Milk is investing $200 million in capital projects at its Dunsandel plant in Canterbury. “The new administration facility has been designed to house 200 staff, almost double our current administration team. “Our staff numbers have just gone over 200 employees in total for the first time, which includes around 90 in manufacturing and warehousing,” says Betteridge.

“The new building will set us up to grow into the future and cements Dunsandel as our long term headquarters.” Calder Stewart has been awarded the contract to build the laboratory/administration building which will get underway once final design changes have been made.

In February resource consents were approved for Synlait’s new large-scale infant formula spray drying plant that should double the company’s capacity for infant formula drying, he says. “We have put the dryer and ancillary equipment out for tender and hope to have the facility completed within the next two years.”

New plant on track Hamilton-based process and mechanical engineers Powder Projects has added Synlait to its stable of dairy company clients. The firm, which specialises in the design and construction of powder handling and materials handling systems for the food and dairy industry, is currently working with Synlait on its new blending and canning plant at Dunsandel. “We’re early in the construction phase of this complex project, which will see the main blending equipment housed in a tower building with five levels. “Our equipment is being installed level by level as each floor is completed, which requires a fair bit of coordination with the project managers and other contractors,” says director Jeff Dance.

“The dairy industry provides most of our work. We operate in a highly specialised area, and like most food industry sectors, dairy companies tend to choose from a select group of contractors and consultants,” says Dance who started the firm with fellow director John Miles almost 10 years ago. Most of Powder Projects contracts are driven by customer specification, he says. “The key to our service is system integration. We incorporate our own process design, products and equipment with products we source from other companies both in New Zealand and overseas, to create an overall powder transport solution that meets the client’s brief.”

The blending plant will allow ingredients to be added to Synlait’s base milk powders to improve their nutritional value.

Powder Projects has developed many of its own products over the years, including a fully automated bag tipping machine called HBD25 which operates with “virtually no people involved”.

Once blended, the powders are pre-gassed and packaged, using state-of-the-art technology that prevents them from spoiling.

Dance says the company has built a strong reputation within the dairy industry, which is something it continues to “work hard on”.

“The shelf life of New Zealand dairy industry products is one of the keys to its worldwide success.”

“A lot of the same people have been working in this industry for a long time from our clients and competitors, to a large pool of sub-contractors. If you do a good job people hear about it, but if things don’t go well people hear about that too.

Powder Projects’ scope for the Synlait project is to provide equipment and solutions for the bag unloading, handling, tipping, and blending parts of the process. Dance says the company has worked on similar projects for many of the other large dairy companies in New Zealand and has done a small amount of work overseas.

“It is always our aim to work collaboratively on projects with the various partners and disciplines involved, to get the job done professionally and to a high standard, with a high degree of goodwill.”

Business South

PRIMARY INDUSTRY » Synlait Milk

Company performance well ahead of prospectus forecast Jo Bailey Synlait Milk is showing continued improvements in its financial performance with recent forecasts showing an anticipated 2014 net profit after tax in the range of $30-35 million - well ahead of the prospectus forecast of $19.8m. “The company is trading strongly,” says Neil Betteridge, general manager manufacturing. “Listing on the sharemarket last year helped us grow quicker than we originally thought, and we have generated a strong company brand over the last six or seven years. “Many of the leading food companies in the world see us as a reputable company with a good quality product.” Synlait’s 160 contract milk suppliers are happy too, with forecast milk prices for the FY2014 season from $8/kgMS to a range of $8.30 to $8.40/kgMS on the back of high international commodity prices. ”We offer similar premiums to other companies but believe we have a point of difference farmers like,” says Betteridge. “As a smaller company we can keep our suppliers up to date with what’s happening and they feel part of our growth. “We don’t anticipate any issues finding more suppliers as we continue to grow our milk supply base.” Milk powders are the company’s biggest sellers, with a fast-growing market for its infant formula range.

The company also produces nutritional milk powders to order for its customers’ uses in other manufacturing processes; sells butter-oil “cream”, a by-product of the manufacturing process, and is just launching its first nutraceutical to the market, lactoferrin, a highvalue minor milk protein. Most of the company’s product is sold to food companies, either packaged into their brands, or sold as a commodity for repackaging elsewhere in the market. Synlait’s major partnership is with China’s Bright Dairy, which is both a shareholder and a customer. “Around a third of our business is into China, with a third into the rest of South East Asia, and the final third to the rest of the world, with a fair portion of that going into the Arab States and Africa,” says Betteridge. Although a reasonable-sized business by New Zealand standards, he says that 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.” Betteridge says that the mood at the annual meeting of shareholders in December was positive, with shareholders welcoming Synlait’s performance and growth initiatives. During this meeting, shareholders also approved the re-election of Graeme Milne, John Penno and Sam Knowles as Synlait Milk directors.

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DEVELOPMENT » Izone Industrial Park

Business South

Izone Industrial Park at Rolleston was established 14 years ago and is now a base for more than 35 businesses.

Inland port a major step for Izone Jo Bailey The development of a new $20 million inland port by Port of Tauranga at Izone Industrial Park, is the latest bit of exciting news for the Rolleston development, says Izone chief executive, Robin Hughes. “The port company’s commitment to Izone has created significant interest from importers and exporters. “The inland port will operate as a hub from which Port of Tauranga will steer mainly primary produce to Timaru Port which it half owns,” says Hughes. The move will also provide Canterbury importers with the option to ship through Timaru. Hughes says Izone’s central location in the “food basket” of the Selwyn District was attractive to the port company, along with the development’s

proximity to major dairy companies, the southern motorway into Christchurch, and the main trunk railway line. Port of Tauranga will join more than 35 other businesses at Izone, which is now a “very mature development. “A large number of established players are successfully anchored at the site, and many more have Izone on their shopping list. “In the last year more industrial land sold at Izone than in the whole of Christchurch, which says a lot about its success.” Around 70 percent of the developed land at Izone has now sold, with more good stock still available. The development’s $40 million Stage 6 was recently completed and is selling well, with a further 45 hectares in Stage 7, which includes the 15 hectares sold to the port company, zoned but still to be developed.

Izone is home to companies in a range of sectors such as agricultural, technical, and manufacturing.

“A large number of established players are successfully anchored at the site, and many more have Izone on their shopping list. In the last year more industrial land sold at Izone than in the whole of Christchurch, which says a lot about its success.” Izone Industrial Park is wholly owned by Selwyn District Council, with Hughes’ company Hughes Developments handling its day-to-day operations, including developing and marketing the site. Hughes has been involved since the project’s inception 14 years ago when the council bought 100 hectares with the vision to develop an industrial estate that would attract new industries and residents to the district and provide more job opportunities for local people. An adjacent 80 hectares was later acquired by council to expand the park. “The main driver of this development was economic growth for the region which is certainly being achieved.” As a greenfield project, rather than the usual brownfield re-development of industrial land, Selwyn District Council was able to create an environment that made it an attractive place to do business. “Well thought-out roading systems, with wideaccess roads and plantings and landscaping have all added to Izone’s appeal.” Hughes says Izone “blossomed” after The Warehouse based its South Island distribution centre at the site. “For a large party like The Warehouse to become an anchor tenant at Izone really gave it some momentum.” The fully master planned development has since become home to companies in a range of sectors such as agricultural, technical, manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, transport, dairy, and now the port company. Most are attracted by the Izone’s excellent infrastructure, central location, stable soils,

favourable district plan rules, affordability, and flexibility, given sites can be tailored to suit a purchaser’s size, shape and expansion requirements, he says. “The biggest drawcard of all has been very competitive land prices, which are around $100 cheaper per square metre than the cost of some of the other industrial parks in Canterbury.” Hughes says buyers are a mix of earthquakeaffected firms and businesses that would have established there regardless. “These are not impulsive or short term decisions, as businesses usually work through a lengthy period of due diligence and board approval before purchases are made. “These businesses are definitely committing to the Selwyn district in the longer term.” The close links with Selwyn District Council is another key advantage of the strategic development, he adds. “Since the earliest days of the project the council has involved the skills of people within the community and private sector to progress the development forward. ‘It remains well connected to the project with councillor John Morton the board chair, and Mayor Kelvin Coe, who is a great advocate of Izone, often attending meetings.” Like most property developments, Hughes says Izone’s success can be measured on its track record. “For a variety of reasons, Izone has been very successful and is a very exciting project to be involved with. “From the Selwyn district’s point of view, it truly is a good news story.”

Business South

SEAFOOD INDUSTRY » Westfleet

10 |

New factory will double capacity Jo Bailey Westfleet’s new $10-12 million fish processing plant in Greymouth will more than double its processing capacity and provide new jobs for the West Coast, says director Craig Boote. “We will increase from one-and-a-half processing lines to three lines once the new processing plant is built, with the capacity to eventually go to four,” says Boote. “At the height of the hoki season we expect to take on around 50 extra people over that four month period, with full time staff numbers growing as well,” he says. Westfleet has been planning the new 3500sqm factory for more than five years, with the West Coast hoki fishery the key driver for its development. “For the last 15 years we’ve traditionally caught between 1500 and 2500 tonnes of hoki quota every year from June to August,” says Boote. “However 95 percent of the catch has been trucked out of the local community as we didn’t have the capacity to process it here on the Coast. “Westfleet now owns that hoki quota, which has given us the confidence to build the factory.” When Boote purchased Westfleet in 2006 in partnership with Sealord, they took over its existing factory, a former engineering workshop built in the 1950s for the old Greymouth Harbour Board. “We knew the aging facilities had a limited life, even before we got started. “In 2009 we built an additional fresh fish outlet, but it quickly got to the stage where the two facilities weren’t big enough to keep up with the growth of the company.” The construction of the new factory is being project managed by Gordon Lindsay of

Westfleet has been planning the new 3500sqm factory for more than five years, with the West Coast hoki fishery the key driver for its development. Christchurch firm Peter Swan Construction, with the plant built by Ansco Engineering in Nelson. Local firm CYB Construction is the lead building contractor. It started on site in October 2013, with completion expected at the end of September this year.

CYB director Chris Yeates says the new factory is a significant project for the company. “By a small margin it is the biggest job we’ve completed to date in terms of dollar value.” He says the “relatively complicated project” required extensive excavation and fill works to be carried out on the greenfield site for the factory’s heavy foundations. The building’s large steel superstructure will support 120 pre-cast panels, some eight to nine metres high. “Given that it is a fish factory we are also installing a lot of services into the building, including substantial drainage under the floor,” says Yeates, who has around 20 builders and contractors on site most days. “It’s a great job for us and we think it’s fantastic that Craig and his company have committed such significant resources to West Coast industry.” Craig Boote says the Grey District Council has “bent over backwards” to assist the process. “We’re making a huge investment in the Coast and have definitely changed the footprint down at the port, so it’s been great to have the council’s full support.”

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Business South

SEAFOOD INDUSTRY » Westfleet

| 11

Westfleet develops fresh fish markets Westfleet is now one of the biggest players in the fresh fish market in New Zealand. However it wasn’t always this way. When Craig Boote and Sealord bought Westfleet in a joint partnership in 2006 around 95 percent of the company’s catch was then frozen for the export market. “We deal with around 70 percent fresh fish these days with our biggest market in Australia where our partner Sealord has strong market connections with Coles and Woolworths.” Boote says the company’s “biggest current push” is growing sales of seasonal fresh hoki into Australia, where it is traditionally sold as a frozen product. Westfleet controls around 1500 tonne of hoki which can only be caught during spawning from June to August when the fish congregate in the Hokitika Trench. The company’s biggest earner is the 1500 tonne of ling it catches in its year-round fishery, says Boote. “Around 60 percent of our ling catch goes fresh to Australia, with the rest into Hong Kong, Brazil and Spain in frozen form.” He says the New Zealand domestic market remains strong, particularly for species such as terakihi, warehou, gurnard, red cod and monkfish. Foodstuffs are Westfleet’s largest domestic customer, taking a high percentage of its fresh, skinned and boned fillets. In addition to its new multi-million dollar processing plant under construction, Westfleet has invested in a significant increase in quota and two new vessels in recent years. “We’ve bought two 25-metre long liners, which takes our fleet to three trawlers, three long liners and between six and 10 contractor vessels,” says Boote. “The crew loves the new boats because they provide full shelter, meaning they are not working out in the elements.”

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Westfleet has three trawlers and three long liners in its expanded fleet. The new long liners are also big enough to navigate the notoriously tricky Greymouth Bar in most weather conditions, ensuring consistent supply. “The smaller boats sometimes have to wait if the weather is no good, but we achieve weekly drops all year round with the bigger boats.” Boote was born and bred on the West Coast and has been fishing in the region since he was 14 years old. He says the West Coast fisheries are “tremendously healthy” and he is already looking ahead at future developments of Westfleet.

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Phoenix leads the way With over 30 years in the construction industry and access to some of Europe and Asia’s largest lift manufacturers, Auckland firm Phoenix Elevators has the capability, products and experience to meet any vertical transport need. The firm offers a complete line of commercial and residential elevator and escalators including platform lifts, goods lifts, machine room less traction lifts, panoramic lifts, service lifts (dumb waiters), car parking lifts, machine and machine room less hydraulic lifts, domestic lifts, access equipment, and escalators. “Around 80 percent of our business is custom projects. Our clients come to us with a problem and we adapt the product to provide the best solution for their needs. We have the capability to produce some extremely specialised lifts when required,” says a company spokesperson. An example of this is the purpose-built freight lift Phoenix Elevators is supplying Westfleet’s new fish processing plant at Greymouth, which has been designed specifically for a marine environment. “This is a standard freight lift we have adapted to fit disabled requirements so it can carry passengers as well as freight. To make the lift more user-friendly and fit for purpose we have installed automatic, rather than the traditional swing doors which you would normally find on a freight lift.” Phoenix Elevator’s customer base covers a wide range of sectors. “We service any firm or individual needing vertical transport, from

the smallest platform lift to a jumbo car or freight lifts.” The company provides solutions to projects that might seem impossible due to constraints such as reduced headroom, reduced pit depths, restricted shaft layouts, or a remote or no machinery room; while still keeping within its client’s budget requirements. Phoenix Elevators also sells to the domestic market, with the lifts built on the same basis as its commercial lifts. “They are top quality and very safe. The design eliminates any chance of the passengers being caught between the moving lift and the shaft. Additional safety devices further reduce the chance of anyone getting trapped and enhance overall safety.” Escalators sales are another part of the business, with most of these products destined for shopping malls, large retail stores and airports. Phoenix Elevators imports product from some of the largest and most reputable suppliers in Asia and Europe, supplying direct to end users as well as to builders and developers. “We have clients throughout New Zealand, Fiji, American Samoa, and Samoa, and work in Australia as well.” Quality, reliability and affordability are some of the key attributes of its products, he adds. “We protect our strong reputation both in New Zealand and internationally by delivering only the highest quality, most reliable and safe vertical lifting solutions in the market.”

Phoenix Elevators Ltd was founded with the support and backing of some of Europe's largest lift manufactures. With over 30 years in the construction industry and experience accumulated with international suppliers we are able to offer the best possible left to suit individual requirements. Phonenix Elevators Ltd are able to offer solutions to those projects that seem impossible such as: reduced headroom, reduced pit depths, restricted shaft layouts, remote machine room and no machine room and still while keeping within your budget requirements. Our extensive range of lifts include from the smallest platform lifts to the jumbo car and freight lifts. We are a small business able to offer on time installations to a high standard. We cover all of New Zealand and Fiji.

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12 |

Business South

DEVELOPMENT » Dakota Park - Apollo Projects

Projects taking off at Dakota Park Jo Bailey Dakota Park is a “very promising development, with huge potential”, says Bevan Hames, business development manager of Christchurch firm Apollo Projects Ltd. “The development already has high quality tenants and will continue to attract more of the same,” says Hames. Apollo Projects, which specialises in integrated design and project delivery services for industrial and logistical warehouses, as well as specialised food and beverage processing and cold storage facilities, is currently working on two medium-scale warehouse/office projects at Dakota Park. The first, is a 1600sqm hub for nationwide firm Agility Logistics; and the second is a 1429sqm facility for leading geo-synthetic company Maccaferri. “We have developed an open and honest relationship with CIAL over the last seven years, and work closely with them and their tenants throughout the design and construction phase to ensure their expectations are met for every project,” says Hames. Agility Logistics was already a tenant of CIAL before deciding to relocate its Christchurch-based logistics hub to Dakota Park. Apollo Projects CEO Craig Waghorn says construction of Agility’s new building got underway in January and is well on track to meet its scheduled completion in early July. Features include a large 840sqm canopy that was specifically orientated to protect it from prevailing winds; drive around access for improved truck manoeuvring efficiency; and an ultra-strong, jointless, steel fibre concrete floor. Apollo is forming, fabricating and constructing the tilt slab panels required for this project on-site. “We can make the panels a bit larger because we don’t have to transport them, which also results in significant cost savings for the client.” Waghorn says Apollo regularly carries out this practice, particularly when a project is driven by

Apollo Projects specialises in integrated design and project delivery services for industrial and logistical warehouses. cost, and the process can be managed within the building programme. The steel framed 1300sqm warehouse for Agility Logistics sits alongside an adjacent 300sqm, timber-framed office facility which will be clad in Kingspan insulated wall and roof panels, to provide high thermal performance. • To Page 14

“We have developed an open and honest relationship with CIAL over the last seven years, and work closely with them and their tenants throughout the design and construction phase to ensure their expectations are met for every project.”

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Business South

DEVELOPMENT » Dakota Park - Apollo Projects

| 13

Agility Logistic’s new building includes a large 840sqm canopy; drive around access for improved truck manoeuvring efficiency; and an ultra-strong, jointless, steel fibre concrete floor.

Brown & Syme on a roll Relationships with construction companies developed over decades has made Brown & Syme Holdings Limited the go-to company for interior and exterior painting and decorating during the Christchurch rebuild. In fact Brown & Syme has now doubled in size since the earthquakes. Brown & Syme undertakes residential, commercial and public projects. It offers a complete range of painting services and has been building its reputation since 1936. The company started in Christchurch as Alfred Brown & Co (Painters) and in 1949; R M Syme Ltd (Painters) was established. In 1989, a son and grandson of the original owners Colin Brown and Steve Syme, merged the two companies and Brown & Syme Holdings. Peter Mason joined Brown & Syme as a director in 1993. He had been apprenticed to Alfred Brown & Co as a painter in 1973 and after serving his time, was promoted to supervisor and contracts manager. Mason became a shareholder in Brown & Syme with the retirement of Steve Syme, and eventually he took over the Brown & Syme business. In 2005, he was joined by Bruce Hodges, an employee for many years, who had worked his way through the ranks from an apprentice to a supervisor, and now a business partner. Brown & Syme expanded to Nelson in the late 1990s, and in 2003, Richard Haynes became a business partner looking after the Nelson Tasman region. Haynes has extensive experience in the paint industry

having worked as the branch manager and sales representative for Resene for 10 years. Today Brown & Syme employs close to 40 staff in Christchurch and another 15 in Nelson. Immediately following the Christchurch earthquakes, Brown & Syme was quick to double its staff in order to assist with the huge amount of repairs and relocations needed to get businesses back up and running. With the rebuild now in full swing the company has been busy undertaking a number of contracts in the CBD and private homes. Recent major projects include the temporary police station and the new Orion building. These projects were successfully completed on time, despite the tight time frames, something Brown & Syme specialises in. High quality workmanship, professionalism, reliability and completing work on time and on budget are just some of the factors responsible for the company’s sound reputation. The long-standing South Island painting and decorating company is predicting further growth as the rebuild speeds up. Brown & Syme Holdings, Telephone Christchurch (03) 381 8423, email brown-syme@xtra.co.nz; Nelson (03) 546 5145, email brown-symenelson@ xtra.co.nz, www.brown-syme.co.nz

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14 |

Business South

DEVELOPMENT » Dakota Park - Apollo Projects

New projects taking off at Dakota Park • from page 12 The warehouse for Maccaferri, which provides engineering environmental solutions for the civil, building, primary and industrial sectors, got underway in March. Construction of the 1200sqm warehouse with 229sqm office building and 308sqm canopy is due for completion in September. “This is a standard, traditional warehouse/office build,” says Craig Waghorn. “The concrete foundations were poured after Easter, and its structural steel is due to be erected in mid-May. “Like the Agility project, we are also forming and fabricating the pre-cast panels on-site,” says Waghorn. Since Apollo Projects was launched in Christchurch in 2001 it has completed numerous high-profile projects both in New Zealand and offshore, with particular expertise in complex process facilities for the food and beverage sectors. Bevan Hames says the firm’s recent major clients include Fonterra, Lion Nathan, High Performance Sport New Zealand, Ross Galt Locksmith, and the New Zealand Police, for whom it constructed the new, fast-tracked Christchurch Central Police Station. “We are also involved in extensive work for the winery industry in Marlborough, and have upcoming projects with Santa Rosa, Synlait, Fonterra, Blue Star Taxis, and Tourism Holdings which is developing a new building on the airport campus.” Apollo has completed several other projects on the airport campus including the development of earthquake recovery buildings for various companies and agencies. In addition to its Christchurch head office, Apollo has an office in Hamilton and also a satellite presence in Marlborough and the lower North Island.

Construction of Agility Logistic’s new building got underway in January and is well on track to meet its scheduled completion in early July. Hames says Apollo offers every client one point of contact, a single line of accountability with no duplication of resources and no conflict of responsibility. It also offers flexible contract options including fixed priced or open book. “Whatever the project, our focus is simple - to provide professional project delivery processes, which deliver outstanding, innovative project outcomes.”

“We are also involved in extensive work for the winery industry in Marlborough, and have upcoming projects with Santa Rosa, Synlait, Fonterra, Blue Star Taxis, and Tourism Holdings which is developing a new building on the airport campus.”

Construction of the new warehouse for Maccaferri, which provides engineering environmental solutions for the civil, building, primary and industrial sectors, got underway in March.

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Business South

DEVELOPMENT » Dakota Park - Apollo Projects

| 15

Park exceeds airport expectations Jo Bailey Dakota Park has exceeded the expectations of Christchurch International Airport Limited (CIAL), developers of the thriving 80 hectare commercial business park just south of the airport. “Importantly the park is also exceeding the expectations of our tenants,” says CIAL chief commercial officer, Blair Forgie. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback regarding the ease of the construction process, the quality of buildings delivered and the convenience of Dakota Park’s location and environment.” Forgie says the park’s seamless access to local and international markets, combined with quality infrastructure and a landlord that is “investing for the long term”, continues to attract strong interest from potential tenants, particularly in the warehouse and logistics sectors. The airport company maintains ownership of the land and buildings which are leased back to its tenants. Four large buildings have already been completed at the park, with another four underway. “These developments complement the large number of national and international tenants CIAL has developed facilities for elsewhere on the airport campus over a long period of time.” A 2000sqm warehouse extension to the existing Recall building is also under construction. Recall was the first tenant at Dakota Park, with its original building completed in 2010. “The expansion of the Recall building is a good example of the flexibility Dakota Park offers,” says Forgie. “We aim to provide purpose-built facilities that meet our tenants’ specifications and business needs. We also provide expansion options to ensure tenants have confidence their needs will be met in the future as their businesses grow.”

The Spitfire Square development at Christchurch Airport will feature bars, cafes, fast food outlets, a supermarket, bank and retail stores. CIAL continues to develop roading and infrastructure at the site, with stage two almost complete, says Forgie. “These works are opening up further land for development within the park and allowing tenant developments to be sited alongside complementary businesses.” Work continues elsewhere on the airport campus, with excavation works about to begin at Spitfire Square, on the corner of Peter Lemming

Road and Memorial Avenue, where a 6000sqm service centre with bars, cafes, fast food outlets, a supermarket, bank and retail stores is being developed. “Construction will get underway at Spitfire Square in the coming months and we expect it to be completed early 2015. The stores within the precinct are already attracting strong interest from potential lessees.” The owners of the Sudima Hotel are also

undertaking an extensive refurbishment and redevelopment works at the hotel, which is located on the campus. Forgie says CIAL views Dakota Park as a “strategic investment in the future of the Canterbury region”. “As a long term investor we are committed to the growth maintenance and success of Dakota Park, and will continue to undertake quality developments, tailored to the business needs of tenants and partners.”

Storer enjoys project The new Maccaferri building at Dakota Park is the second project Storer Contracting has been involved with at the airport campus and the first with main contractor Apollo Projects.

Some of Storer’s other current projects include the construction of large subdivisions at Rolleston and Leeston, plus a smaller subdivision at St Lukes, Woolston for another building company.

“The developments underway at the airport campus are creating exciting opportunities for the commercial construction sector, and we are pleased to be associated with Apollo Projects for the first time. They work on some interesting, highly specialised projects. It’s a relationship we’re keen to develop,” says construction manager Ross Wortelboer.

Wortelboer says the Storer brothers are “quiet achievers, who are happy to fly under the radar”.

Storer Contracting is providing site works, excavation and drainage services to the fasttrack Maccaferri project. The company started on site in late February, with stage one of its works completed by early May. “We are off-site at the moment while the main building works are underway, but will return in a few weeks to finish things off.”

They have been in business around 23 years, but the family involvement in the industry goes back even further.

Subdivisions, earthworks, roading, driveways, demolition, and drainage in the Canterbury region and beyond.

“Storer Contracting has evolved from at least 50 years-plus experience. Ross and Dale used to work with their father as general contractors before starting up on their own.” The longstanding company has been on “quite a growth curve” since the earthquakes, with staff numbers increasing significantly to 28. Although the growth has been rapid, it’s happened in a measured manner, consistent with the company’s capabilities, says Wortelboer.

The family-owned firm is headed by brothers, Ross and Dale Storer and specialise in subdivisions, earthworks, roading, driveways, demolition, earthmoving and drainage in the Canterbury region and beyond.

“The most recent addition to our team is civil engineer, Simon Hall, who is adding another layer of expertise to the business and will assist and support the growth strategies we have in place”.

“We can present a near full suite of capabilities to a prospective client. There are very few jobs we outsource to other contractors. Most of our work comes from referrals from other professionals and contractors because they know we have the skill set, and can do the job right first time.”

“Having the right people is so important and we’ve been fortunate to build a really good team. The company could certainly grow more. However Ross and Dale rely heavily on the staff to maintain Storer Contracting’s reputation for quality, and have no desire to grow for growth’s sake.”

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Business South

DEVELOPMENT » Dakota Park - Arrow International

16 |

SB premises breaking new ground Jo Bailey Christchurch firm SB Logistics’ sizeable new warehouse is marking a couple of firsts for the Dakota Park development, says Henry Dustan, project manager of lead contractors Arrow International. “This building is the first to connect to the new mains fire sprinkler system CIAL has installed to service all future facilities at the development. “It is also the first at Dakota Park to have a posttension joint-free floor slab.” The slab achieves a flatness level of FM2, a tolerance of plus or minus three millimetres across the entire 5000sqm footprint. “This slab is very strong, and has excellent seismic performance,” says Dustan. Arrow International has worked through a staged consent and integrated design process to meet the project’s tight deadline. “SB Logistics had a definite critical path. It needed the warehouse to be operational by 6 May which we delivered,” says Dustan. To achieve the quick turnaround, the building consent process was staged into three, with civil and ground works including drainage consented first, to enable the Arrow team to get on site and prepare for the horizontal construction phase of the warehouse. Stage two saw the completion of foundations and the warehouse superstructure, with stage three, an adjacent 560 square metre corporate office building, to be handed over by 22 August. SB Logistics was an existing tenant of CIAL but decided to move to Dakota Park after outgrowing its previous facilities on the airport campus, plus a specialised inventory managing centre in Hornby. The new building is on a large 13,000sqm site, and has already been future-proofed, with 2000

The new SB Logistics’ warehouse is marking a couple of firsts for the Dakota Park development. square metres of expansion space set aside on the south side of the warehouse. Having two road frontages provides the SB Logistics team with “very functional” access to their building, says Dustan. “Vehicles can go in one road and out the other which makes the operation very efficient.” Arrow International currently has a second project underway at Dakota Park, a 2000sqm

extension to the state-of-the-art Recall Warehouse A building. Recall, which offers document management, data protection and document destruction services, was one of the first tenants in the development. The extension was incorporated into the plans at the time of the base build design, with consent granted in January, and the project due for completion in late May. The new extension features the same technology as the existing building, including VESDA, a highly sensitive early warning aspirating smoke detector that can provide a fire warning well before any sprinklers go off. Arrow International is also busy with a range

of other commercial projects with numerous commercial projects in the heart of the CBD, industrial projects, residential repairs and rebuilds for Southern Response and Housing New Zealand and projects in the not-for-profit sector. Dustan says Arrow International’s Christchurch branch has grown exponentially since the earthquakes. “With many big commercial projects still to come to the market, we expect to have a strong forward workload for some time to come. “Arrow is proud to be a key partner involved with projects at Dakota Park, and looks forward to a continued positive relationship with a strong Canterbury-focused client.”

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Phone 03 365 7077 Fax 03 365 4638 www.melray.co.nz

Business South

DEVELOPMENT » Dakota Park - Arrow International

| 17

Recall, which offers document management, data protection and document destruction services, was one of the first tenants in the Dakota Park development.

High quality, on time SB Logistics’ massive 6000sqm warehouse/ office facility at Dakota Park is one of several key projects Christchurch precast concrete manufacturers Cancast has been contracted to work on by Arrow International. Cancast supplied all the precast concrete walls for the project, which included 30 panels totalling 723sqm for the main warehouse building, and 24 panels totalling 402sqm for the large, adjacent office building. “There was huge amount of concrete in this project and we were very happy with the quality of the finish. We have a pretty simple business philosophy - to deliver a high quality product, on time. Main contractors like Arrow can’t afford to be waiting for delivery,” says Cancast director Paul Currie. Cancast was established two years ago by Currie along with three other shareholders in response to the Christchurch rebuild. Around 30 staff now work at Cancast’s Rolleston plant, where the company has tripled in size since it started “in an empty paddock” with eight staff, says Currie. The company has grown steadily since then, building an impressive, state-of-the-art 7500sqm precast plant, which incorporates cast iron surfaces in the casting beds to ensure a premium quality finish. Cancast’s products include precast concrete wall panels, beams and columns, stairs and landings, and architectural feature panels. It operates on a supply-only contract basis, manufacturing and delivering its products to site but not erecting them.

Currie says the company has worked on high profile projects, “from day one” with its first contract to assist with the rebuild of Christchurch City Council’s organic processing facility at Dyers Road, operated by Living Earth. Cancast’s team was then kept busy for around nine months working on Fonterra’s new drying plant at Darfield. Currie has wide experience in the concrete manufacturing sector, having worked on drying tower projects “all over the South Island” during his 25-year career. Before the establishment of Cancast, he already had a high profile in the industry, delivering works on a wide range of large, complex construction projects. Currie says although technology is changing in the construction of large commercial buildings, a lot of concrete is still going into them.

The Cancast team comprises some of the most experienced and successful operators in precast building products in the south island. Our people have an unparalleled depth of knowledge and current understanding of the manufacture and use of precast concrete in the New Zealand construction industry.

“Precast has a lot of advantages, particularly when it comes to speeding up the construction process. A building can go up in a matter of days using this material.”

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Although Cancast is “ticking over” with plenty of work, it has the ability to do more. “Our precast factory has a large capacity, which leaves us well placed to service the commercial rebuild in Christchurch once it really starts to get going. ‘We also value the relationship we have with Arrow International and look forward to working with them on future projects.”

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18 |

BUILDING » Bamford McCleod Construction

Business South

Company acquires a winning habit Kelly Deeks Queenstown’s Bamford McLeod Construction is hoping to make it three wins in a row at this year’s Registered Master Builders House of the Year competition. Having scooped the Supreme Award for Renovation of the Year in 2012, the company’s first year entering the awards, it followed that last year by winning the future proof Building Renovation Award over $500,000. This year Bamford McLeod Construction is entering a new build project designed by multiaward-winning Dunedin company, Gary Todd Architecture. Bamford McLeod Construction is a threeyear-old company backed by nearly 70 years of construction experience amongst its two directors and foreman. Director Richard Bamford is a qualified builder who gained carpentry experience in the UK and Australia after completing his apprenticeship in Balclutha. Returning to Queenstown in 1999, he joined Naylor Love and was promoted to foreman after a year. “In this role I was given the opportunity to broaden my range of skills, working on many different projects ranging from high-end residential builds through to large commercial builds,” Bamford says. “My work with Naylor Love included the Mayop House at Lakeside Estate, Reidhaven at Millbrook, and Building 7 at Remarkables Park shopping centre.” Bamford went on to start his own company in 2005, specialising in residential new builds. He was asked by Naylor Love to contract back as foreman and build Streamside at Millbrook in 2007. It was on this project he worked with Andy McLeod, and the pair set up business together on the successful completion of that project. McLeod completed his apprenticeship in Invercargill then worked in Southland for the next five years before heading to the UK where he formed his own building company and worked for 10 years.

Bamford McLeod Construction has specialised in constructing high-end residential properties throughout the Wakatipu Basin. He arrived back in Queenstown in 2006, began working for Naylor Love and was promoted to foreman within a year. In this capacity he led projects like the Arrowtown Museum extensions and renovations, Building 12 at Remarkables Park shopping centre, Alpine Aqualand, and Streamside at Millbrook, where he worked with Bamford. The pair had a similar vision and a mutual commitment to best practice, quality, and workmanship, which formed the foundation for their joint partnership.

In 2011, they further cemented this partnership by joining the Registered Master Builders Association and undergoing the Licenced Building Practitioner scheme. “We’d seen a lot of local building companies struggling and subbing out a lot of work,” Bamford says. “We wanted to form a company that had good leaders, with one on the job at all times. “No work is subbed out and our clients are dealing directly with us.” Bamford McLeod brought in locally respected award-winning builder Jeff Long for their first project, a large new build, and he was soon promoted to foreman. Over the past three years, Bamford McLeod Construction has specialised in constructing high- end residential properties throughout the Wakatipu Basin area, working with many renowned architects. Renovations and shop fit-out work also feature highly in Bamford McLeod Construction’s repertoire. The company now employs seven staff and aims to keep levels there to maintain quality and control.

Proud to support Bamford McLeod Construction Ltd PO Box 256 Arrowtown, 9351 New Zealand t. 03 409 8887 m. 021 942 911 e. monkearthworks@xtra.co.nz

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BUILDING » Beattie McDowell Architects

Business South

| 19

Variety is the spice of life for firm Jo Bailey Versatility is a key attribute of Invercargill firm Beattie McDowell Architects, says director Roger Beattie. “As a medium-sized provincial architect practice we are involved in a diverse range of projects. Our focus is on design-led solutions that are appropriate for their context and fulfil each clients’ unique requirements - whether the project is a budget or high spec house; the repurposing of an old industrial building; an educational facility; or more upmarket offices for business professionals.” Beattie practiced architecture in Auckland for 20 years before purchasing the Invercargill business in 2011 and moving south. “I grew up in Southland and have young children so it’s great to be closer to family. “We really enjoy the lifestyle here and it’s great to be part of a business environment which is actively supportive of local firms.” In Auckland he worked on a wide range of residential, commercial and institutional projects, strengths that have translated well to Beattie McDowell Architects. The firm, which employs a team of five staff, has recently completed several high profile projects including the redevelopment of the Northern Tavern for the Invercargill Licensing Trust. “This was quite a challenging project as, even though the facilities were being fully redeveloped, the tavern had to remain operational throughout the building works. “The form and bulk of the new buildings are a good fit within the residential neighbourhood and the mix of quality materials such as cedar, glass, local stone and a tray roofing system add interest to the exterior. The end result was a real step up in terms of quality offering, moving from a pub environment to a more modern community restaurant and bar facility.” Beattie says the repurposing of a vacant industrial building for Invercargill Brewery’s boutique brewing operation and tasting facility was “another fantastic project” for the company. “Our client Steve Nally had a strong vision for the brewery and a real passion and energy for the project which rubbed off on everyone involved. “He was keen to combine the industrial aesthetic of a brewery with a tap room and tasting room that provided a great customer experience and spaces suitable for holding promotional functions.” Beattie McDowell Architects’ design worked with the existing building and created a unique facility which has received a lot of positive feedback from the brewery’s customers. In the residential field, the firm has completed several interesting projects, including a holiday retreat on the south coast for a busy professional couple. “This highly exposed site had stunning views to the west, south and east but was also open to severe prevailing weather. “The idea was to create a residential form that made the most of the good aspects of the site whilst also providing a sense of shelter and protection – a haven in the rugged coastal environment. We were very pleased with how it came together.” Another “rewarding project” was the design of a high quality, high-spec house for a local couple on the outskirts of Invercargill.

Beattie McDowell Architects designed Invercargill Brewery’s boutique brewing operation and tasting facility “This relaxed home features extensive use of materials with a natural patina, including timbered ceilings, old bridge beams, stone cladding inside and out, and exposed concrete floors. Local firm Barry Stewart Builders completed the build to an extremely high standard.”

Construction Services Ltd P O Box 1353, Invercargill 9840 office@donaldsonconstruction.co.nz Ph (03) 218-9488 Fax (03) 218-3477

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Beattie says the firm has also been involved in various projects for local schools, with ongoing projects for the Southern Institute of Technology, including new student accommodation and Trades Centre developments in Invercargill and Christchurch.

“Whatever the project, we never try to pigeonhole our clients. We work hard to understand their needs and goals then look for the best solutions to meet them. Our greatest reward is a successful project which fulfils our clients’ requirements and exceeds their expectations.”

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20 |

BUILDING » Kickstart Homes

Business South

Affordabilty for first home buyers Kelly Deeks Nelson residential construction company Kickstart Homes has built its business on a policy of providing affordable homes for first home buyers and investors, with owner Katie Harrhy enjoying the challenges posed by a predominantly male driven industry. Katie has the support of her husband Phil Harrhy, with 18 years of construction experience behind him, Phil has built everything from highend, architecturally designed homes to straw bale houses. Katie set up the company five years ago, focusing on providing the best value for money on a product that is generally the biggest investment people make. “When you have a housing crisis and people stop buying high-end homes, everyone still buys affordable homes,” Katie says. “We’re happy dealing with people on a tight budget, and the sections are usually pretty challenging. We can work with people to find their section, design their house, and get it built within their budget.” Eighteen months ago Kickstart Homes added the Competitive Homes agency for Nelson to its business model. Bunnings-led housing company Competitive Homes offers plans and pricing to potential clients without having to pay a deposit. This concept helps people avoid the disappointment of having their plans drawn up and priced, then coming in well over budget and having to downsize or completely change the idea of their dream home. “With Competitive Homes you get a realistic idea of what the job is going to cost, before you have to put any money into it,” Katie says. As Competitive Homes isn’t a franchise, the Harrhys don’t pay franchise fees, keeping overheads low and prices competitive. The Competitive Homes concept also suits the Harrhy’s existing business model of providing a complete package to their clients, by being involved in the whole process from design, to pricing, to building with genuine advice. “The Competitive Homes website is a great starting point for our clients,” Phil says. “We also have a range of Kickstart Homes plans. I know the building code inside and out and pride myself on being able to design a home for a difficult site. When we take a concept to our clients, we’re confident we’ll have a plan or be able to custom design a plan to fit any section.” Kickstart Homes can offer packages for home builders on tight budgets which helps with the new lending criteria the banks have imposed on first home buyers. “We secure the land, and the client pays a 10% deposit then nothing until the build is completed,” Katie says. “They’re building a house without the financial pressure.” She says clients on tight budgets who have been disappointed with the quality of existing homes in their price range have come to Kickstart Homes and quickly realising they can afford to build a brand new home.

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Kickstart Homes also offers house-and-land packages. Property investors have also taking advantage of Kickstart Homes’ business model. Kickstart Homes has recently begun an association with local rental agencies, which provide a rental appraisal on a property investor’s new investment before it is even built. “All our clients have had their properties rented before they have finished building,” Katie says. Kickstart Homes is proud of its referral business, with 95% of contracts coming from client referrals.

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Business South

BUILDING » JD Group

| 21

JD Group ready for commercial boom Jo Bailey Longstanding Christchurch painting and decorating firm Jeff Dermott Painting and Decorating is now part of the JD Group, established following the addition of a sister company, JDN Builders Ltd around a year ago. Owner Darrell Dermott says the two companies run autonomously, working on standalone projects, but combining skills on others. “Now that we’re builders as well as painters we can complete projects from start to finish, not just the finish. “We have a bit more control over the jobs and can minimise some of the delays that may occur when waiting for other contractors.” The Canterbury earthquakes were the major catalyst for the change of business structure, he says. “As an EQR Accredited contractor we started getting into project management of jobs, so it made sense to have our own building teams to enable us to do the whole job.” The companies continue to offer the “full package” for EQR repairs and rebuilds, and can also help clients wanting to opt out of the scheme. JDN Builders also takes on a range of other projects including new home construction, alterations and light commercial work. It has already developed house and land packages on two sections in Halswell which sold quickly, and has more under development for the Prestons subdivision. “We currently have six builders on the JDN team but I can see this increasing to eight or 10 reasonably quickly. “We have a few new homes to build for clients this year and other projects starting to work their way through the system.” The commercial market is the “big focus” for Jeff Dermott Painting and Decorating, which employs around 60 painters. “Over the years we have worked with most of the major commercial construction companies such as Fletcher Construction, Hanham & Philp, Hawkins, Higgs Builders, Luneys and many more.” The company also provides painting and decorating services for light commercial buildings, government housing and architectural homes, including regional and national Master Builders House of the Year winners with Clive Barrington Construction. Crack injection concrete repair is another specialist service offered by the company. Jeff Dermott Ltd was founded by Dermott’s parents, Jeff and Sandra in 1968. During the 1980s commercial building boom in Christchurch, the company completed several high profile buildings, including the Park Royal (later the Crowne Plaza), and Durham Towers (Copthorne, Durham Street), neither of which survived the earthquakes. Now the company is gearing up for the next big commercial boom in the city.

JD Group takes on a range of other projects including new home construction, alterations and light commercial work. “It is going to be a pretty busy year as a lot more commercial projects finally get underway. We are just waiting to get the green light on a couple of big jobs.” Jeff Dermott retired from the 45-year-old company around five years ago, but is “stoked” to see how it is progressing.

As managing director, Darrell Dermott oversees the entire operation, with the assistance of business development manager, Joe de Leijer. “We are lucky to have several longstanding staff members. All of our office staff has been with us for a number of years and we have several painters with over 10 years service.”

Overall, Dermott is “very happy” with the new structure of the company. “The establishment of the JD Group brand with two strong, subsidiary companies has given us a solid platform from which to continue to provide quality building, painting and decorating services to the Canterbury market.”

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22 |

BUILDING » We Build / DB Building

Business South

Rural background put to good use in building work Jo Bailey

We Build has experience on a wide range of projects.

Exciting step for We Build Kelly Deeks Christchurch’s Wright Enterprises Build (We Build) has taken an exciting step this year with the build of its first spec home at Kingsley Place in Rolleston. We Build managing director Antony Wright says the time was right to enter the spec home market, and the project has allowed the We Build team to take their time with the build and push the limits of their skills and experience. We Build was established five years ago by father-and-son team John and Antony Wright. Both licensed and qualified builders, the pair first worked together when Antony was only 15, and he helped his dad to build his dream retirement home in Gore Bay. Antony went on to spend some time building architectural homes in Queenstown, while John was running his own business, working with relocatable homes and drain laying. So when Antony returned from Queenstown with the qualifications, passion, and drive to start his own business, the decision was made to revamp Wright Enterprises into W.E Build Ltd, specialising in new homes. Picking what was probably the worst possible time for builders to start their own business, mid-recession, the Wrights thought if they could survive the market in that state, they would be able to get through anything. The company grew quickly after a great start on the first couple of projects leading on to more work, and two more staff were taken on a year later. When the first earthquake struck in 2010, We

Build went straight into recovery mode and aligned itself with Fletchers and EQC repairs. John’s previous experience and technical knowledge had the company perfectly placed to pick up some over cap insurance repair work, and We Build moved on from Fletchers to Maxim Projects, completing repairs for FMG Insurance. “We started doing larger repair projects and underpinning houses,” says Antony. “That’s where John’s experience came in to play in a big way. We had a good mix of experience in the team of quality finishing and technical knowledge.” The insurance work has now led to new build projects for We Build, and the company is currently building a new, 350sqm house at Mandeville Park Drive in Swannanoa. The Wrights say it is now time to take the company into its next stage, and the decision was made to build a spec home. With the first spec home currently under construction, a second section has already been purchased and plans are underway for the company’s next spec home. Now with a team of three builders and three labourers, We Build is taking its time on the build and the staff are all able to push their capabilities. This is particularly true for the company’s third builder, Carolyn Stratten. She joined the company during her apprenticeship and has quickly and competently taken on the role of supervisor, with the spec house giving her the opportunity to prove her capabilities. We Build offers a design and build service in collaboration with architects Sandra Davies and George Plans.

Timaru building firm DB Building has built a strong niche in the rural and lifestyle market, says owner Mark Dale. “Pretty much all of our work comes from word of mouth and recommendations within the rural community. We rarely advertise.” He and wife Amelia both grew up on South Canterbury farms, and live on a 900-acre property, which is run by a farm manager they employ to enable them to focus on the building operation. “We already know a lot of people in the rural community and relate well to other farmers. “It’s a market we’re very comfortable working in,” he says. Dale has more than 20 years building experience, with the couple establishing DB Building nine years ago. The firm’s portfolio is a mix of mainly rural residential and farm building projects. Dale says the firm is just completing a unique

380sqm house on a picturesque 2ha block on the northern outskirts of Geraldine overlooking the Waihi River. This “really high-spec” home, clad in darkstained macrocarpa, has been designed by the clients’ son, a London-based architect, who has been heavily influenced by Austrian architecture. “It is a really labour-intensive build as almost every feature is hand-crafted. “The construction system is quite different to the way we build in New Zealand. It’s a very different but striking house.” Another large home completed by the company around 18 months ago was a 380sqm three-bedroom plus office home for prominent Angus breeders Gerald and Sue Hargreaves at Geraldine. Coincidentally, this home was also designed by the owners’ son. Tom Hargreaves created the brief for the substantial rural farmhouse, which is clad in cedar and a Rockcote plaster system, with PVC windows and a German heating and insulation system.

DB Building has a proven track record building homes of various styles, whether traditional or contemporary.

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BUILDING » DB Building

Business South

| 23

This new home, clad in dark-stained macrocarpa, has been designed by a London-based architect, heavily influenced by Austrian architecture.

“This home has big open plan spaces and lots of room for outdoor living with great views across the Canterbury Plains. It’s very cool.” Dale says the company has a proven track record building homes of various styles whether traditional or contemporary. It also undertakes home renovations, construction of woolsheds and farm sheds, and carries out some light commercial renovation and fit-out work. Recent projects in this sector include the Forsyth Barr and Aeon offices and the new Can Am motorbike shop, all in Timaru. Dale founded the company with one staff member. He now has eight.

“We’ve had steady growth until the last couple of years when we’ve pretty much doubled in size,’ says Dale. “This has been largely driven by the buoyant rural sector. “When the sheep and beef, and dairy farmers do well we notice a definite spin-off.” The firm already has “another busy year” lined up in 2014, with a new home recently started and another to get underway shortly. “Our focus is very much on delivering a high quality product, on time and on budget. “It’s a simple philosophy which has worked well for us and led to a lot of repeat business.”

“Our focus is very much on delivering a high quality product, on time and on budget. It’s a simple philosophy which has worked well for us and led to a lot of repeat business.”

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24 |

BUILDING » Oakley Gray Architects

Business South

Oakley Gray Architects worked closely with the Historic Places Trust during the redevelopment of the Regent Theatre which has a Category 1 Historic Places Trust rating.

Historic theatre restoration a winner Kelly Deeks Heritage specialist architectural practice Oakley Gray Architects has recently restored Dunedin’s iconic Regent Theatre to its former glory. A 10-month redevelopment project resulted in a big win for the local community, and a win for Oakley Gray which received two national awards at the Resene Total Colour Awards last year. The 1620-seat Regent Theatre is a much loved Dunedin institution, and Oakley Gray Architects director Peter Porteous says it was extremely important to respect the Dunedin community and restore the building as carefully as possible, while also making sure it would function in the 21st century.

“The project’s timeline was about five years, from the initial planning discussions until the completion of the project,” he says. “Dunedin City Council contributed $4.7 million towards the restoration, and the Otago Theatre Trust raised a further $2.8 million through community donations and trust applications - the community really got behind it.” The iconic building was in a dilapidated condition, the stage house needed more height to accommodate touring shows, and there were several areas of non-compliance with the Building Code. The restoration work included a new stage and a 64 line flying system, a raised stage house ceiling, enlargement of the existing dressing room block, a new sprinkler system, and extensive electrical upgrading.

The orchestra pit was modified, new heritagestyle seating was installed in the auditorium, a lift installed, and additional rooms created in the basement. New axminster carpet was purpose-made for the project, and installed in the public areas.

The auditorium has a Category 1 Historic Places Trust rating, and Porteous says that the architectural team worked closely with the Historic Places Trust during the redevelopment to ensure that the new work was totally sympathetic to the original.

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BUILDING » Oakley Gray Architects

Business South

| 25

Oakley Gray Architects is a specialist in heritage building restoration, with other recent projects including Dunedin’s Burns House. Conservation paint expert Laurence Le Ber was employed to undertake an examination of the existing paintwork and make recommendations. He took paint scrapings and samples, identified the existing colour scheme, paint application methods and techniques, and made recommendations for the new painting. The entire auditorium was birdcage scaffolded, to allow the painting and sprinkler installation to be carried out. “The colour scheme of the auditorium was selected to match as closely as possible to the original 1928 colour scheme, as agreed with the Historic Places Trust,” Porteous says. “The conservation expert spent close to a week in the building, laboriously identifying the many different shades and hues. “The age and condition of the auditorium meant that great care was needed in the cleaning down of the existing paintwork and application of the protective glazes and colours.” Oakley Gray Architects won the Resene Total Colour Master Nightingale Award, and the Heritage Section, with judges saying the project captures the history and role of the building, and the Victorian excess captured in 1928. The judges said that the project “had been supported with a very good start from the

architecture, adding a sense of lushness, opulence, and theatrical atmosphere through an extensive array of hues. “The colours chosen highlight and embrace the clever use of lighting with complete attention to detail, and was traditional but still surprising.” Oakley Gray Architects is a specialist in the field of heritage building restoration, with other projects under its belt including the restoration of the iconic Dunedin Railway Station in the 1990’s. Oakley Gray Architects is an accredited New Zealand Institute of Architects practice. The company was formed in 2009 when senior employees Peter Porteous and James Stodart bought out the share of John Gray, joining Norman Oakley as directors. Based in Dunedin, Oakley Gray Architects undertakes a wide range of commissions throughout the South Island, from commercial and institutional buildings, through educational and residential, to healthcare and hospitality. The company also specialises in education and aged-care facility projects, and designed Christchurch’s 80-bed Windsor House Retirement Community, a well-engineered earthquake survivor on New Brighton Road. Oakley Gray Architects is now actively pursuing these specialist fields in Christchurch.

“The conservation expert spent close to a week in the building, laboriously identifying the many different shades and hues. The age and condition of the auditorium meant that great care was needed in the cleaning down of the existing paintwork...”

Oakley Gray Architects undertakes a wide range of commissions from commercial and institutional buildings, through to educational and residential, healthcare and hospitality.

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26 |

BUILDING » Farrell Building / Grant Strahl Building

Business South

Traditional techniques to the fore for Grant Kelly Deeks

Farrell Building Services offers a full design-and-build process.

Farrell expands home range Karen Phelps Farrell Building Services Limited has just taken on the Otago area for Competitive Homes. A new concept in the marketplace, Competitive Homes is not a franchise but an evolving cooperative of home designers, independent family owned builders and quality suppliers that aims to bring real value to those wanting to build a new home, says Farrell Building Services director Mike Farrell. He says being part of the new group will allow him to offer even better service to his clients as Competitive Homes has a range of plans suited to first homes, architecturally designed homes, townhouses and a transportable series. “We can now offer our customers the advantages of a group builder but without the associated costs,” he says. “Because we’re not a franchise this means we don’t have to pay purchase fees or rebates on the sale price back to a franchisor. That means the money our clients spend on their new home goes directly into their build.” Farrell started Farrell Building Services in 2008 with his son Nathan, a qualified carpenter. The pair take the client through the entire build process from design to finished home. A key point is that customers are not required to commit or pay for anything until a fixed price is offered for the build which includes everything right down to window coverings. Another key aspect of the offering is the inclusion of high quality products in each build including Bunnings products such as Kaboodle kitchens and J-Frame, a pinus radiata laminated framing timber.

“J-Frame gives all of the advantages of steel framing in that everything remains straight and true but still has all the convenience of timber. J-Frame uses conventional carpentry techniques and fastenings, and it is a renewable resource.” Although Competitive Homes offers a comprehensive range of plans there is also a lot of flexibility in the process for people to make any changes they may require. And Farrell says that in order to customise their home pretty much everyone wants to make changes. Farrell Building Services also offers a full designand-build process for those that want to start designing their home from scratch. One of the first projects the company has undertaken under the Competitive Homes banner is a purpose built rental accommodation project in Annex Street, Dunedin. “The original architect could only manage to get two bedrooms in each of the two homes being built as it was a tricky site. We adjusted a Competitive Homes plan and have been able to fit three bedrooms in each home.” As well as new builds, the company has also worked on many other types of building projects in Dunedin and Central Otago including renovations, extensions and light commercial projects such as pub and restaurant renovations and fit-outs. The company was involved in Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium project building the site office and completing a number of other jobs that needing completing quickly such as installing televisions, fitting out changing rooms and bathrooms and fencing off walkways. “This demonstrates our ability to be flexible, keep to tight deadlines and respond quickly to customer demands.”

Craftsman builder Grant Strahl uses traditional hand-building techniques and specialist skills to create buildings of beauty through period restoration, post and beam construction, hand cut roofs, and artisan timber work. Strahl is a fourth generation kiwi and a fourth generation builder. He was born in Kaikoura, where his father and grandfather worked during the depression on civil construction and railways projects. He trained with his dad, a rehabilitated carpenter out of WWII, who was one of the only privates awarded the military medal for outstanding service and bravery in combat. Strahl went on to complete his apprenticeship in Christchurch in the early 1970’s. “A lot of the work I did while I was training was by hand,” he says.

“We had to learn how to cut things and plane things. There wasn’t the prefabrication and stand-up type of construction there is today. We required skill sets.” After completing his training, Strahl moved to Canada after a stint cycle racing in Belgium. He started a small carpentry business in a small rural town in Southern Ontario, which he ran for the next 25 years and expanded to 60 employees. “Our projects were typically turn-key deals, from large palatial mansions to renovations, additions, and custom homes,” he says. “Many jobs included period restoration, and all our projects were of a loose sticks nature – post and beam, hand cut roofs, and architecturally designed buildings.” Returning to New Zealand in 2004, Strahl set up business again with Strahl Building. “We’re not wishing we could, or hoping to do, we’re doing it,” he says.

“Everyone is going on about new techniques and styles, but before you get into the new stuff, there’s already a few million houses out there that are old. If you’re going to add to them, you’ve got to go back to the original methods.”

Strahl Building has the experience to execute restoration projects with a high level of finishing.

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BUILDING » Grant Strahl Building

Business South

| 27

Strahl Building works mainly on complex additions and renovations, such as a current project where the company is rebuilding one of Canterbury’s iconic homesteads, Oakleigh. The 360sqm homestead was originally built in 1875, and Strahl Building is rebuilding it from top to bottom, as well as extending the building by 100sqm. “Everyone is going on about new techniques and styles, but before you get into the new stuff, there’s already a few million houses out there that are old,” Strahl says. “If you’re going to add to them, you’ve got to go back to the original methods.” Strahl and his team have the experience and the equipment to execute these type of projects with a high level of finishing. Their skills mean any challenge can be met in terms of building specifications. Strahl says one of the strengths of his team is the fact there are American, Canadian, Japanese, Samoan, and Kiwi builders all working for the company. “We’re a snapshot of the multicultural future of Canterbury,” he says. However there is also a family feel to the business. His son Robert works for the company as the foreman, having apprenticed with his father in Canada and trained in traditional methods of construction, he now has 15 years of building experience. Son-in-law Simon Brown is also a builder for the company, and Strahl’s wife Judy is an ex-banker who looks after all the company’s bookkeeping. With 47 years of building experience behind him, Strahl says maybe one day one of his grandsons will also take to the profession. “That would make me happy,” he says. “It’s an honourable occupation, it’s real and it’s primitive. I’m now in my 60’s, but I don’t think I’ll ever retire because I could learn something tomorrow.”

Strahl Building (03) 388 1127 www.strahlbuilding.co.nz

Strahl Building has been rebuilding one of Canterbury’s iconic homesteads, Oakleigh. from left Robert Strahl, Grant Strahl, Simon Brown, Robert Harrow.

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28 |

BUILDING » Rilean Construction

Business South

Company gaining foothold in Chch Jo Bailey Despite “rather slow” progress Rilean Construction’s Christchurch branch is starting to gain some traction in the local market. “It’s been tougher than we thought to get projects off the ground due to the complexities of the market and hold-ups through the consent process,” says manager Trevor Meikle, a director of the Queenstown based firm that established a Christchurch branch 14 months ago. “However jobs are starting to roll through now,” he says. The new branch currently has 15 mid-range residential jobs on its books. These projects are at various stages of the construction process, with one home recently completed, a second halfway through construction, two more about to start and another two in pricing. The rest are working through the design and consent stages, which are the most timeconsuming parts of the process, says Meikle. “A lot of Canterbury people have been thrust into designing and building a new home, so it can take some time to guide them through the process. “When you factor in the three or four months to get a consent it can be easily up to a year from when we first meet people to when we put a peg in the ground on their site.” Rilean Construction is one of Queenstown’s most respected and awarded building companies. In the last few years it has adapted from a mainly specialist commercial builder to a company with a more even portfolio of commercial and highend residential projects. “Although we’re well known for our commercial work down south I think it will be a couple of years before we start getting into large commercial construction projects in Christchurch. We want to be well established and have the staff here to do the job properly before we take on jobs of this scale.” However the company does have some commercial earthquake repair work such as crack injection, building repairs and decoration work underway.

Want to take your business to the next level? CONTACT US TODAY ON 03 983 5514

Rilean Construction’s new Christchurch branch has several projects underway in the city. “We’ve found there can be similar hold-ups with commercial repair work. “Some of our recent jobs didn’t actually commence for eight to 12 months after we had first scoped them.” Meikle says new homes, residential rebuilds

and apartment rebuilds are Rilean Construction Christchurch’s main focus. “We have a couple of two-storey multiapartment block rebuilds coming up for Hawkins. “These can be quite complex projects, especially if there is betterment involved. Most

We are always pleased to be part of the successful Rilean Project Team.

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apartment blocks involve multiple owners with different insurance companies, which require a fair bit of compromise.” Around six months ago Rilean Construction Christchurch moved to its new offices and yard at 14 Tyne Street, Riccarton.

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BUILDING » Rilean Construction

Business South

| 29

Rilean Construction is enjoying the challenges of getting established in the Christchurch market. Rilean Construction’s Christchurch branch has nine building staff, plus new administration staff who joined the company in mid-March to assist with its expansion and growing workload. Four of the company’s builders moved up from Queenstown along with Meikle. “The Christchurch rebuild is the biggest construction project New Zealand has ever seen, and it’s exciting to be part of it. “I wasn’t tied down to Queenstown so was keen to move up here and lead the new Christchurch operation. “It’s providing a great opportunity for some of our builders, particularly our younger staff.” Back in Queenstown, Rilean Construction continues to work on a “myriad of jobs”. These include a high end home at Millbrook and a 17-unit apartment block in Hallenstein Street, one of the first apartment complexes to be developed in the resort town for some time.

The company has also developed its own range of sustainable, thermally efficient homes, called the Evolution Series. In 2012, one of these homes was awarded the district’s first six-star Homestar rating. The multi-awarding firm has also won numerous Master Builders’ House of the Year Awards, and in 2012 was presented with the coveted Trade and Construction Award at the Westpac Queenstown Chamber of Commerce awards. Meikle says despite the challenges, Rilean Construction is happy to have moved into the Canterbury market. “It’s definitely been more challenging than we thought to get established here but we feel positive we’ve made the right decision and can continue to contribute to the city’s rebuild. “There is plenty of work ahead and we look forward to a great long term future for Rilean Construction in Christchurch.”

“The Christchurch rebuild is the biggest construction project New Zealand has ever seen, and it’s exciting to be part of it. It’s providing a great opportunity for some of our builders, particularly our younger staff.”

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30 |

Business South

BUILDING » GI Builders

Guarantee of outstanding quality Kelly Deeks As companies proud to be involved in the rebuild of Christchurch, GI Builders and GI Painters bring many years of experience in architectural, residential, and light commercial construction to their projects, ensuring outstanding quality and exceptional attention to detail. GI Builders is directed by licensed building practitioner and registered Master Builder Grant Irving. Building for more than 15 years, Irving did his apprenticeship with a high end group home builder before setting up on his own. He and his wife Kelly set up the company in 2008, completing new home builds and renovations with one employee until the earthquake in February 2011. “We had some upcoming projects organised, and after the February earthquake those clients called us immediately to complete their emergency work,” says Kelly. “We became registered with Fletchers and got a lot of emergency work, so we took on some more staff at that stage.” As the company’s motto states, it is still “small enough to listen - big enough to deliver” with 12 builders, a quantity surveyor, and five painters on staff. The Irvings established GI Painters in July 2011. “We were subbing out a lot of painting and we wanted to be able to control the quality and also our health and safety,” Kelly Irving says. “Our painters have come from many years in the painting and decorating industry, in highend architectural homes and high-end gold medal winning iconic Christchurch commercial buildings.” GI Painters offer the highest quality interior and exterior painting,. “We have a wealth of experience in wallpapering, plastering and stopping, decorative and protective coatings, professional paint stripping both interior and exterior, specialist two pack paint finishes, industrial coatings, and fire retardant.” GI Builders is a member of Site Safe and has regular health and safety audits and training for all staff. As well as being an EQC-registered contractor, and working with private insurance companies, GI Builders is also an opt-out company, where people can choose not to have Fletchers involved in the earthquake repairs. For each of these situations, homeowners have the option to request GI Builders as their nominated builder.

GI Builders offers a design-and-build service for new homes.

“We have completed more than 150 EQC repairs, and are familiar with the process dictated from EQC,” Kelly says. “We offer a complete project management service, ensuring stress-free earthquake repairs.” The company operates four building crews of three staff each, and guarantees to have at least one qualified and licensed builder on site for all projects. GI Builders offers a design-and-build service for new homes. Grant Irving works with design and build clients from the initial planning and design stage, through to the completed project, ensuring a complete and personalised service all the way through.

“When working with us there are no limitations or pressures, we will accommodate the clients’ budget and expectations, and ensure their project is managed in a timely and organised manner.” “When working with us there are no limitations or pressures, we will accommodate the clients’ budget and expectations, and ensure their project is managed in a timely and organised manner,” he says. “We take pride in delivering superior craftsmanship to produce great results, delivered on time and on budget every time.” GI Builders currently has three spec homes

under construction in Wigram, and has purchased sections in Rolleston for another round of spec homes. Currently 23 Porter Street in Wigram is for sale. Designed by Christchurch’s Planometric the four-bedroom, two living room home, with brick and wooden veneer, offers 244sqm of comfortable living space.

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BUILDING » Sinclair Builders

Business South

| 31

Touching all the Chch rebuild bases Karen Phelps Sinclair Builders is proud to be actively assisting Christchurch to get back on its feet by carrying out earthquake repair and rebuild work. Initially the company was involved in emergency repairs such as removing dangerous chimneys but more recently, as the rebuild has progressed, the company has increasingly moved into new home builds. Company director Chris Sinclair says demand has been so great the company has moved from completing around six new houses a year to 20. The trend has possibly been assisted by the rapidly moving Christchurch property market which means it is now sometimes not much more expensive to buy a piece of land and build a new home compared with buying an existing house. “Building a new house means people don’t have to wonder if the earthquake repairs on an existing property have been completed properly. “It gives more peace of mind and of course you have a brand new home that will stand you in good stead for years to come,” he says. Sinclair Builders is an accredited main contractor for Fletchers Construction, Hawkins Construction and EQC accredited to carryout earthquake repairs. To make the new home building process easier for Cantabrians Sinclair Builders also offers a series of plans and constantly has a number of homes either currently under construction or ready to move into. “Our plans can provide people with a starting point and then we can design something from there. “Or if people see something that we are building on our website that they like and would like to make any changes if it’s not too late in the build process then we are more than happy to accommodate. “Alternatively if they like one of the designs but have a section of their own in mind and would like to have this or a similar build then they can call us to discuss,” says Sinclair. Born and bred in Christchurch, Sinclair started Sinclair Builders in 2009 after owning a building company in Australia. A member of Certified Builders and a licensed building practitioner, Sinclair specialises in all aspects of residential building, from alterations, decks and patios to constructing new architectural homes. He has developed strong relationships with a range of local Canterbury sub-contractors who he trusts will deliver the same highest standard of quality on his jobs. Sinclair Builders provides a full service from start to finish from concept plans through to consented plans ready for building on. The company then takes the customer through the range of different products available. “The pros and cons with each are explained and the overall package is tailored to suit individual budget,” says Sinclair. He then provides a detailed specification list of

Sinclair Builders specialises in all aspects of residential building, from alterations, decks and patios to constructing new architectural homes. all materials, fixtures and fittings so that customer knows exactly what they are getting and that everything has been allowed for including the extras that are often left out of house quotations, says Sinclair. Included in this service is a landscaping and interior design consultation. Sinclair Builders has a dedicated painting and decorating division. The company also utilises the expertise it offers in-house to provide rebuild/valuation reports and a building inspection service to home buyers. Sinclair Builders employs a staff of 34 and Sinclair says he is happy to keep the company at its present size after a period of huge growth following demand after the earthquakes. He says he is dedicated to the city where he lives and works and has just taken part in the Battle of the Rebuild, which brought together the major construction, home building, civil works and engineering companies involved in the rebuild of Christchurch to raise significant funds for charity. “I am passionate about building and enjoy all of the challenges and satisfaction the trade brings on every job, regardless of cost, size or difficulty.”

Sinclair Builders offers a range of home plans which can be individually altered.

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32 |

Business South

BUILDING » Manteena Construction

Move into Chch gathers momentum Jo Bailey Making the move into the Christchurch market was always going to be a challenge for Australian commercial construction firm Manteena Construction. However, Manteena is “here to stay, and having some great success” says chief executive Simon Butt, who has moved to New Zealand to manage the local operation. “The decision to establish a New Zealand branch was part of our overall expansion plan,” says Butt. “In view of the anticipated demand for skilled construction workers following the Christchurch earthquakes it made sense for us to establish our base here.” Manteena Construction offers a range of services to the commercial construction sector, including lump sum contracting, design-andbuild, managing contractor, and GMP contracting doing works including commercial new builds, commercial and retail fit-outs, refurbishment and heritage works.. Butt believes that Manteena Construction’s extensive network of industry contacts throughout New Zealand and further afield into Australia and South East Asia will provide significant benefits to the local market. “We can provide alternative supply chain solutions when the rebuild ramps up and local resources start to become tight. “Our experience can be demonstrated by the successful processes for engagement of trades, contractors and procurement of materials for projects delivered in more 15 countries in the past five years and our long history in Australia of over 30 years.” The company remains focused on the commercial construction sector, a market that “has not really kicked off yet”, in Christchurch, he says. “Our workload, like many others, has been relatively slow. “However we have successfully completed a number of small projects including one at Cashmere High School in the latter part of 2013,” says Butt. “We are steadily building a portfolio of projects in Christchurch, with our significant project experience being utilised to great effect by the clients who are giving us a chance.”

Manteena Construction offers a range of services to the commercial construction sector.

Manteena has completed many diverse multimillion dollar projects in Australia during its 30 year history, including schools, hospitals, art galleries, emergency service centres, libraries and government buildings. “We also specialise in working with clients on technically challenging projects that require a degree of confidentiality or higher degree of security, such as embassies, training facilities and security control centres,” says Butt. “We can respond to their needs by providing build-ability, programming and cost advice while their project is in the feasibility/concept phase. “We can then provide construction costs using

“Our experience can be demonstrated by the successful processes for engagement of trades, contractors and procurement of materials for projects delivered in over 15 countries in the past five years and our long history in Australia of over 30 years.”

Want to take your business to the next level? CONTACT US TODAY ON 03 983 5514

a variety of contract methods such as design and build, guaranteed maximum price, or traditional lump sum.” Butt says that bringing client’s projects to fruition in a cost-effective manner without

compromising on safety or quality is at the heart of Manteena Construction’s operations. “We have always been a customer- focused company, working in collaborative relationships with our clients.

New Roof, Reroof, Residential, Commercial & Architectural. Call us to discuss your project 03 338 0400

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Specialists in painting and decoration, from large-scale commercial buildings to residential renovations. We are proud to be associated with Manteena Construction

tel: 03 335 0205 11 Vanadium Place PO Box 35085 Christchurch 8640 www.spencerpaint.co.nz

Business South

BUILDING » Manteena Construction / Fair Dinkum Sheds

| 33

All Fair Dinkum Sheds come with a 50-year structural warranty.

Sheds with style and strength Jo Bailey

Manteena Construction is getting down to work in Christchurch.

“We hope their lasting memory of the experience with Manteena is not only the quality of the finished building, but also the way in which it was delivered.” The company is currently focused on growing its relationships with some of the “highly experienced” design consultant teams, particularly in the design and construction of schools, in Christchurch. “Selecting the right consultant is an important step in the procurement process and we have many years of experience working on design and build contracts with professional teams,” says Butt. “It is important that clients seek the right

advice from the right people. We are providing this sort of advice for our clients, particularly around the potential risks of their project and how to mitigate them.” Butt says Manteena Construction has the capacity to do more work than is currently on its books. However he expects this situation to change within the next few months. “We are therefore looking to establish solid relationships with potential new clients now, as our early involvement will enable the client to benefit from our specialised and detailed knowledge of construction management, buildability and supply chain management.”

In a region battered by natural elements, Cantabrians are very aware of the importance of tough, durable buildings. This is why Fair Dinkum Sheds’ range of New Zealand-made, fully-engineered steel garages, carports, American and Quaker barns, farm sheds, industrial, commercial, and office buildings should be the first choice for consumers, says Brent Collins, managing director of Durasteel, the brand’s Canterbury distributor. “Our sheds stood up very well to the big winds that hit the region recently. The grade and thickness of the steel we use can be up to a third heavier than some of our competitors. Strength and durability is very important when you’re dealing with major weather events.” Collins and his wife Polly started Durasteel over three-and-a-half years ago to handle the Fair Dinkum Sheds distributorship, becoming the local supplier of this quality, New Zealand made product. Although Durasteel is strongly focused on the local market it is not limited to it, says Collins. “We can, and do sell anywhere in New Zealand. However things have gone nuts in Canterbury since the earthquakes. There is also a lot of farmland and lifestyle living in the region which is a big market for us.” Galvanised steel frames and vertical cladding are standard across the Fair Dinkum Sheds’ range.

The buildings come in a wide range of colours, styles and designs using high quality Colorsteel and Zincalume steel and aluminium windows. “There is no such thing as a standard size,” says Collins. “We can change the dimensions, roof pitch, colours and style of the building, as well as add or remove skylights, windows, walls and doors depending on what the client wants. “When they’re happy with their custom design we can show them a 3D image and provide an immediate cost calculation.” There is also a new Fair Dinkum Sheds app that allows customers to come up with a basic building design and then submit it to the company for pricing and additional customisation from their local distributor. “The app is another really useful tool, although nowhere near as sophisticated as the technology we have in the office. “We are about to start providing a mobile design service using our laptops for clients who would prefer us to go to them.” One of the company’s current best sellers is a mono-pitch garage with lean-to studio, which combines modern styling with a multiple-use area. “The studio can be separated off very easily for whatever people want to use it for, such as extra garaging, a workshop, art studio, or living space.” All Fair Dinkum Sheds come with a 50-year structural warranty and 15-year cladding warranty and are ShedSafe accredited.

Combining 30 years of New Zealand and Australian experience, to help rebuild Christchurch as one of the most modern cities in the western world

Rylock Canterbury proud to support Fair Dinkum Sheds

Lump Sum Contracting • Construction Management GMP Contracting • Design & Construct

www.manteenaconstruction.co.nz

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FOR ALL GENERAL SHEET METAL WORK Phone 03 366 5011 Fax 03 366 4931

Email info@jsm.net.nz or jackson@inet.net.nz Web www.jsm.net.nz or www.sheetmetalproducts.inet.net.nz

34 |

CONTRACTING » PJF Limited

Business South

Core values contribute to success Kelly Deeks Painting is one of the most important features of a building, providing sanitation, illumination, preservation, and decoration. PJF Limited, formerly Phillip J Fisher Painting Contractors, offers high quality, trained tradespeople who have a high regard for people’s property, assets, and health and safety. The company founder started the original business in Christchurch in 1972, and is still active in the business which now encompasses three generations. PJF offers a varied range of services nationwide, including scheduled facilities maintenance services, commercial building repaints, industrial coatings, new construction, roofs, airless spraying, and gib stopping. PJF’s successes are attributed to the insistence on its core values – customer importance, personnel presentation, respect, and integrity. PJF director Andrew Fisher says these values set PJF apart as a professional painting company that goes to extra lengths to satisfy its clients. “Our mission is to meet the market with a highly trained painting operation which is flexible enough to service major, high-value construction projects, through to one off residential homes,” he says. “We offer unbeatable service, fast job completion, and unparalleled professionalism.” Not only does PJF provide a top service and a quality professional painting job, the company stands by its work with a guarantee of up to 10 years. The company also offers all its clients technical and practical advice so they can get the maximum benefit from their painting investment. “It’s too common for painters to get in, get the job done, and get out and on to the next job,” Fisher says. “Our point of difference is we are in it for the long haul. Our clients know we care and will continue to keep in touch to make sure their investment is secure, and maintenance is kept up.” PJF’s commercial painting division undertakes projects all over New Zealand for corporate organisations and property managers who require a consistent solution for their painting maintenance. “Our clients need to be comfortable with the tradesmen that come to their property or work site,” Fisher says. “Some of our work includes after hours, unsupervised work, so our foremen are carefully selected tradespeople who reflect our core values, are well presented, and are respectful of other people’s property.” The scheduled facilities maintenance division has been developed and refined over the years,

PJF’s commercial painting division undertakes projects all over New Zealand, such as the new visitor centre at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

enabling clients to achieve a continual high standard of presentation for their properties, while avoiding a large initial cost outlay. Maintenance services are tailored to suit the requirements of the building, environmental conditions, and the budget. Emphasis is on the type of paint finish and the scope of annual cleaning to ensure that the paint work is kept in a sound, clean condition, and that total protection is offered to the overall building structure. PJF’s property cleaning division takes care of ongoing exterior cleaning and moss removal. PJF has a philosophy of continuous improvement which helps the company remain at the forefront with technology, health and safety, and quality control processes. This is a painting and maintenance company people can trust and recommend to colleagues with confidence. The company promises to do what it says, when it says it, and to provide 100% customer satisfaction on every project completed.

Buy where the trade buys and stretch your dollar further. For the best range and pricing!

PROUD TO SUPPORT PJF PAINTING 68 Montreal Street Christchurch Ph 962 0037 FREEPHONE 0800 99 99 76

Business South

CONTRACTING » Wainwright & Co

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Protecting the history of stonework Kelly Deeks Inspired by craftsmanship, bespoke stonemasonry company Wainwright and Co brings modern day service to one of the world’s oldest industries, combining traditional European apprenticeship with 15 years of local and international industry experience to provide high quality stone construction, maintenance, and restoration work. Marcus Wainwright and his team of stonemasons provide construction, restoration, and sculpture services from their workshop in Dunedin. Wainwright trained in Germany and England, and spent years carving ornamental headstones before moving on to more complex sculptures, then restoration work. He immigrated to New Zealand in 2000, and says one of the challenging aspects of working on the opposite side of the world is how to deliver some of his products for a good price when it includes imported specialised goods and tools. “In the UK we used to have dealers come around once a week selling all the specialised products. “Here it costs me $350 to import 20 litres of high quality anti-graffiti product,” he says. “But with some things you just have to bite the bullet if you want to do it properly”. In recent years, Wainwright says the conservation aspect of his work has grown hugely. “It’s a new way of thinking,” he says. “In the old days, restoration was always about bringing a building up or close to looking new again. Discarding or covering up old material was common. “These days I’ve learnt to see the value in irreplaceable historic items, no matter if they are aged or worn.” Wainwright points out that historic monuments and buildings are just about the only easily accessible way most people will learn about the history of their city. With stone easily outliving and outlasting people and their memory, a townscape can become a walk through time. “For example Larnach’s Castle is a stone building, and if it wasn’t for that building, Larnach’s name surely wouldn’t be remembered to this extent,” he says.

Wainwright & Co spent 18 months working on the restoration and strengthening of the historic Cargill’s Monument in Dunedin.

“Our history is reflected in our buildings and our monuments. “The Christchurch earthquakes have given me a lot of things to think about. It has made every other historic building in New Zealand so much more precious.” Wainwright and his team always work closely together with conservationists and engineers on restoration projects, and they seek regular advice from both the New Zealand Historic Places Trust and the New Zealand Conservators of Cultural Material. One such project the company worked on was the restoration of Cargill’s Monument. One of Dunedin City’s oldest stone built structures, the monument was erected in 1864 to

“Our history is reflected in our buildings and our monuments. The Christchurch earthquakes have given me a lot of things to think about. It has made every other historic building in New Zealand so much more precious.”

commemorate Captain William Cargill, one of the founders of the Province of Otago. Wainwright says the 18-month long project, completed on time and under budget in October last year, was commissioned to both strengthen and restore Cargill’s Monument. While originally the monument was going to be strengthened from a certain level upwards, the Christchurch earthquakes resulted in the strengthening being taken further. Corner blocks were taken away to allow for drilling sites to insert steel rods into the monument’s foundations for additional support and strength. The restoration included repair and replacement of structurally unsound and broken parts. Intricately carved pieces of aged and weatherworn stone were then placed back again, with the new steel structure being hidden beneath the stone. Lead capping was then inserted on to some areas of the monument, to protect it from the weather and reduce erosion.

The restored Cargill’s Monument

0508 SMART LIFT INFO@SMARTLIFT.CO.NZ WWW.SMARTLIFT.CO.NZ • Cranes • Elevating Work Platforms • Telescopic Material Hoists • Glass Lifting

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o3 456 o445 WAINWRIGHTANDCO.COM

Level 1, Plaza House 243 Princes Street, Dunedin Phone: 03 477 8192 Email: gsm@gsm.co.nz

36 |

CONTRACTING » Kiwi Safe Net Solutions / Allan Contracting

Business South

Kerb and channel specialist has Southland covered Kelly Deeks

Kiwi Safe Net Solutions has provided safety nets for numerous builds in the Nelson Tasman region.

Safety Net system a winner Kelly Deeks When Nelson builder Tony Langford was asked by the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (WorkSafe NZ) where his fall arrest system was, like many Kiwi builders, he had to reply he didn’t know he needed one. On investigating the options, he discovered there was no provider of safety nets in the Nelson region. A licensed builder with more than 25 years of experience constructing homes of all shapes and sizes, Langford has survived his share of lucky escapes and is keen to improve safety for all workers working at height. So he set about designing his own safety net system. His brother Chris, with a mechanical and aviation background, and accredited in Australian Workplace Health and Safety, joined him in refining the design. It was then tested and certified as a complete solution by Safety Net Systems Nelson and a licensed engineer, and meets the requirements of the Health and Safety in Employment Act. Kiwi Safe Net Solutions was established in March 2013 and since then, Kiwi Safe Net Solutions has provided safety nets for 185 residential builds

in the Nelson Tasman region, installing close to 37,000sqm of nets. Kiwi Safe Net Solutions now offers its certified system to other installers as a package complete with training, and has supplied systems to installers in Queenstown (Kiwi Safe Net Solutions Southern Lakes) Dunedin (Dunedin Edgefall) and Tauranga (Silva Roofing). A fall from height is the most serious hazard associated with roof work. More than 50% of falls are from less than three meters, and most falls are from ladders and roofs. Langford says according to WorkSafe NZ’s preventing falls from height guidelines, New Zealand builders must provide both external and internal fall protection. “Externally that is normally scaffolding, but internally you need to have a soft landing system,” he says. “You can use bean bags or blow up bags, but they’re bulky and prevent movement on the floor. Nets are the easiest and most convenient internal fall protection system. “They are simple to erect, they allow unobstructed movement throughout all rooms, and the builders can look through the nets to see what’s happening above and below.” Safety netting systems are installed by Kiwi Safe Net Solutions prior to installing the roof trusses, and removed on installation of the roof cladding.

Invercargill’s kerb and channel specialist Allan Contracting has recently passed from father to son, with Karl Hawkes taking over the family business from his father John, who has had the business for the past 35 years. It remains very much a family organisation, with Allan Contracting employing Hawkes’ uncle Phillip Hawkes and his cousin Keith Hawkes. The team was joined a year ago by Jesse Tonga, who has been learning the trade in a bid to take off some pressure of the often hard and gruelling work. Karl Hawkes has been a partner in the business for the past six years, before buying Allan Contracting outright in April last year. He has worked in the business for the past 18 years, and the employees between them can boast nearly 100 years of industry experience. Allan Contracting specialises in machine laid concrete kerbing for subdivisions, car parks, commercial buildings, roading maintenance, and roading rehabilitation work. The company also uses a smaller kerbing machine for residential driveways, for people

building new homes or upgrading their old existing driveways. Allan Contracting has the market covered in Southland, as the only kerb and channel specialist in the region. When John Hawkes bought the business 35 years ago, he was a builder and used to build through the winter and kerb and channel during the summer months. Hawkes says 35 years on the market is different and much more regular, with more new houses being built meaning subdivision and driveway work now continues at all times throughout the year. Technology has also improved, and the latest kerbing machines include the likes of laser technology and self-drive features. “We pretty much rely on the older hydraulic technology, which is man powered, more reliable, and gives us more control over what we’re doing,” Hawkes says. Allan Contracting’s latest plant acquisition is an Arrow 770 Kerbmaker, a modernised version of the machine first produced in the early 1960s and still going strong. One of the most versatile kerbing machines it can produce a myriad of shapes from 150mm

Allan Contracting specialises in machine laid concrete kerbing for subdivisions, car parks, commercial buildings, roading maintenance, and roading rehabilitation work.

D A V E T I P P E T T A U T O M O T I V E

Please contact Peter Brookland, Principal, For all your business & Accounting requirements

SNS manufacture and supply safety nets under the “Save Your Ass” brand to Kiwi safe who train, install, services and maintain this product Safety Net Systems Nelson Ltd Contact Andrew Hope 021 331 476 • 03 546 8991 andrew@motnets.co.nz www.safetynetsystems.co.nz

Proud to support Allan Contracting (1994) Limited 433 Dee Street PO Box 393 Invercargill Phone 03-218 8404 Mobile 027-431 8191 Fax 03-218 8405 A/H 03-230 4573 Email: peter@brooklandca.co.nz

PROUD TO SUPPORT ALL AN CONTR ACTI NG

Phone 03 217 8129 Mobile 027 710 9282 Email tippettauto@xtra.co.nz Cnr Yarrow & Mary Streets Invercargill 9810

Business South

CONTRACTING » Allan Contracting

| 37

Allan Contracting is the only kerb and channel specialist in the Southland region.

to 1220mm wide, without having to change the power unit. For the past year and a half, Allan Contracting has spread its wings outside of Southland, when one of its major clients SouthRoads set up a branch in Mosgiel. Allan Contracting completes subdivision work and kerbing runs for council roading maintenance contracts for SouthRoads, both in Southland and now in Mosgiel as well. The company also has regular contracts with Downer EDI Works, Fulton Hogan and other

contractors throughout Southland, Dunedin, and Mosgiel. In Invercargill, Allan Contracting has recently completed the last stage of an upgrade to one of the city’s busiest roads, Queens Drive. The project was finished a month ahead of schedule. A large commercial job has also recently been completed at Bupa’s new Ascot Retirement Village on Racecourse Road in Invercargill, an 18 month long project where Allan Contracting built car parks, driveways, and footpaths throughout the village.

INVERCARGILL ENGINEERING Co Ltd

Proud to support Allan Contracting

• Structural Steelwork Specialists - Commercial & Agricultural • Farm Buildings, Dairy Sheds, Wintering Barns • General Engineering & Machining • Project Maintenance 267 Bond Street, Invercargill • Phone/Fax: (03) 218 2134 E-mail: admin@iec.co.nz • PO Box 213

“We pretty much rely on the older hydraulic technology, which is man powered, more reliable, and gives us more control over what we’re doing.”

New product?

• New Driveway Construction

• Asphalting

• General Siteworks

• Subdivision Development

Contact: 027 699 8976 READY MIX CONCRETE - GRAVEL

PO Box 24 Winton • Fax 03 236 0517 Email: cwroading@woosh.co.nz

Our readers want to know!

WINTON HEAD OFFICE

P.O. BOX 34, Winton Phone (03) 236-6580 Fax (03) 236-6581 Email mcgregor.concrete@xtra.co.nz Web www.mcgregorconcreteltd.com Te Anau (03) 249-7051

Lumsden (03) 236 6580

See us for: • Road maintenance & construction • Subdivisions & driveways • Dairy lanes & farm work

• Bridges & underpasses • Siteworks & drainage • Landscaping • Plus much more..

Quality at a competitive price, no compromise

Call us on 03 484 7210 22 Gow St, Mosgiel

www.southroads.co.nz

FREE QUOTES

38 |

Business South

CONTRACTING » Sub Surface Drilling

New sewer system an ideal solution Jo Bailey Trenchless drilling specialist Sub Surface Drilling is working on the largest low pressure sewer catchment released by SCIRT to date as part of its post-earthquake infrastructure repair programme. Once complete the St Johns catchment will see a brand new 16 kilometre low pressure sewer network installed to 860 homes in Woolston. Sub Surface Drilling is directional drilling the PE sewer pipes to the boundary of each home, with another crew of drain layers installing tanks and grinder pumps on every property to enable the pressurised system to operate. Operations manager Tim Rae says some residents are not happy about having the tanks installed. However he believes it is the most appropriate solution for the area. “A low pressure sewer system is definitely the most logical solution, enabling Christchurch City Council to provide a reliable sanitary sewer service to areas like Woolston where there has been significant land movement, sinkage and broken pipes.” A normal sewer pipe runs on a grade from a house out to the sewer main, which could be anywhere from one to five metres deep in Christchurch. “The beauty of the low pressure system is that these pipes can flow up hills or left and right with no issues. “The other main advantage is the PE pipes themselves, which are strong, and flexible enough to cope with any future land movements.” He says directional drilling is the most efficient way to install this network - a technique Sub Surface Drilling has specialised in for some years. The current project is taking up around 80 percent of the company’s resources, and should be finished within six months to a year. There is the potential for the company to be involved in the further extensions of the catchment once these are put out to tender by SCIRT, he says.

Sub Surface Drilling is directional drilling the PE sewer pipes to the boundary of each home in the Woolston block.

Sub Surface Drilling has already successfully completed a number of smaller sewer network projects in the city which led on to this larger project. These include a 100 property low pressure sewer mains project at New Brighton, where the

The St Johns catchment will see a brand new 16 kilometre low pressure sewer network installed to 860 homes in Woolston.

SUB

SURFACE DRILLING LTD

“The beauty of the low pressure system is that these pipes can flow up hills or left and right with no issues. The other main advantage is the PE pipes themselves, which are strong, and flexible enough to cope with any future land movements.” company also laid a 250mm PE on-grade high pressure sewer main from the pump station on Owles Terrace to Keys Road. It has also completed a smaller sewer catchment project at Halswell, and a challenging job for City Care, installing 250mm PE on-grade high pressure main at Wigram Road. “This job required a fair degree of precision and we achieved the client’s design invert levels over the entire job to within 40mm, which was very pleasing,” says Rae. Another significant City Care project was the Little River and Cooptown Water Supply upgrade. The five month project saw Sub Surface Drilling’s team directional drill new water pipes from 180mm mains down to 50mm sub-mains. The Clarkville based firm has also been busy in North Canterbury, which is “booming”. “We do a lot of work for MainPower, assisting with the installation of power infrastructure for their urban and rural clients. Most of our work in the region comes through them.” Like many other companies in Canterbury, Sub Surface Drilling continues to adapt to the changing local market.

“A lot of the projects we’re doing just weren’t around before the earthquakes. The key is to keep learning and complete them successfully.”

• Latest technology- page 40

Tel 03 354 8204 | Fax 03 354 8205

E-mail - herb@ssdl.co.nz | www.subsurfacedrilling.co.nz

Radar system makes drilling safer The Christchurch rebuild and nationwide rollout of the ultra-fast broadband (UFB) network has seen a growing demand for ground penetrating radar (GPR) systems, says John Grant, general manager of Ditch Witch New Zealand, the country’s only specialised underground construction equipment supplier. “GPR is a non-invasive technique, used to locate non-detectable underground services or infrastructure before drilling commences. “It reduces the likelihood of strikes or accidents which can do damage to existing services, such as sewer laterals.” Ditch Witch recently supplied a GPR system to Sub Surface Drilling to complement the directional drills it has already supplied the North Canterbury firm. “We have a great relationship with Herb and the team at Sub Surface Drilling, having supplied them for many years,” says Grant. Directional drill sales currently account for around 70 percent of Ditch Witch’s business in New Zealand. “There is a huge push into directional drills due to the growing preference for trenchless techniques as opposed to open cut trenching.” Grant says minimal ground disturbance is a big advantage of the technique. “It allows roads to stay open during drilling, or sports fields, parks and environmentally sensitive areas to be drilled with no disruption to terrain or turf.” In addition to trenchers and directional drills, Ditch Witch NZ offers a wide range of vibrating plows, vacuum excavation units, skid steers, tool carriers and electronic loading or guidance equipment. It is also an authorised distributor for the market leading Bariod drilling fluids and DCD installation tooling. Since 2011 Ditch Witch NZ has also carried the HammerHead range of pipe bursting equipment, pipe ramming equipment, piercing tools, and down-hole tools, following the acquisition of HammerHead by Ditch Witch parent company CMW.

Ditch Witch recently supplied a new GPR system to Sub Surface Drilling. “The HammerHead piercing tool is essentially a small drill that is ideal for drilling under roads or footpaths up to around 15 metres. “We are selling lots of piecing tools to contractors involved with the UFB project, as they are ideal for installing the fibre optic connection from a property’s boundary into the home.” Grant says there is also growing demand for the HammerHead pipe bursting products and vacuum excavators from contractors working on the Christchurch rebuild. “The vacuum excavators are proving popular for pot holing and excavation in the Christchurch

You Can’t Beat The System. No other company offers such easy-to-use systems, only Ditch Witch offers the complete package to provide solutions to your needs. Directional drills. Trackers. Fluid management Systems. Vacuum Excavators. Utility Locators. Trenchers. Skid Steers. Ground Penetrating Radars. All designed to work together to simplify operating in the toughest conditions. Contact Ditch Witch NZ on 0800 DWNZLTD or www.ditchwitchnz.com for more information. ORANGE IRON. ONLY ORANGE. ONLY DITCH WITCH

Ditch Witch New Zealand | 0800 396 9583 www.ditchwitchnz.com

market as they are a relatively non-invasive with less risk of causing damage to underground services.” In addition to Ditch Witch New Zealand’s warehouse and workshop in Auckland, the company also has service centres around the country that provide backup support, service and parts. Grant says customers can also phone the company’s 0800 number and speak directly to its parts manager Barry Eames who has “extensive knowledge of the products and their applications.” The South Island market is covered by Mark

Courtney, a Christchurch-based rep, who has extensive experience in machinery sales in the region. Grant says the main advantage of Ditch Witch’s broad range of products is that everything has been designed and built by the company to integrate and work together - allowing customers to get the best out of their machines. “Our customers can access all of the drilling equipment and components required for their job sites from one supplier, and deal with our experienced team who talk about drilling and trenches day in and day out.”

40 |

CONTRACTING » Sub Surface Drilling

Business South

New equipment adds to capabilities Jo Bailey Sub Surface Drilling has invested in new high-tech gear to further improve its service offering to its clients. The company purchased a new ground penetrating radar system last November, which scans the ground for any pipelines or other obstructions that might be underneath; or any voids left in the ground following the earthquakes. This process is a requirement for SCIRT projects, which is why the company decided to invest in its own gear. “We would rather rely on ourselves to undertake it, than having to wait for others to come on site,” says operations manager, Tim Rae. “There is also a lot of responsibility attached to driving the radar. “We are expected to find everything in-ground and correspond that to the service plans to ensure there are minimal to no service strikes.” A new air/hydro excavation truck has also been added to Sub Surface Drilling’s fleet - the first of its kind in the South Island. The truck utilises a high pressure water blaster and high pressure air spade to break up dirt and suck it into its tanks. “The beauty with our system is that we have two dry spoil tanks so when we’re using the air to excavate in clean road base, we can separate that from the main load and re-use it to back fill holes.” Sub Surface Drilling was established by Deane “Herb” Herbert in 2000 and has completed numerous underground services installation projects such as power, telecommunications, gas, water and drainage throughout Canterbury and the South Island. Directional drilling is the main trenchless technique it employs. However the company also specialise in pipe ramming, thrust boring, PE Butt Welding, Electro Fusion Welding and pipe cracking. It also carries out conventional trenching and chain trenching as required. The company is ISO 9001:2008 accredited and ACC Secondary Workplace Safety approved.

A new air/hydro excavation truck has been added to Sub Surface Drilling’s fleet - the first of its kind in the South Island. In the last year it has taken on an additional five staff, and now employs 18. “We don’t plan to get too much bigger at the moment, “ says Herbert. “Our team knows Christchurch above ground and below and we’d rather specialise and do things right than get too big and do it wrong.”

A S P H A LT R E PA I R S Driveway & Path Maintenance Potholes | Trenches | Crossings Speedbumps | Residential & Commercial

www.asphaltrepairs.co.nz

P 03 383 6262 F 03 383 6464 E info@asphaltrepairs.co.nz www.asphaltrepairs.co.nz

Rental Equipment Specialists Friendly Service • Right Advice • Right Equipment For the Handyman to the Contractor! HOURS:

Sub Surface Drilling has completed numerous underground services installation projects such as power, telecommunications, gas, water and drainage throughout Canterbury and the South Island.

Mon – Sat 7.30am – 5.30 pm Sun 11.00am – 2.00pm

Phone: 323 8029 • Fax: 323 6397 • 1190 Main North Road, Belfast (Bridge end) www.smithshire.co.nz

PR O U D TO S U PP O R T S U B S U R FAC E D R I LL I N G LT D 158 Main South Road, Sockburn, Christchurch 8042 P 03 343 3350 E patrick@patrickfraher.co.nz

www.patrickfraher.co.nz

AB Equipment 709 Halswell Junction Road. Ph 344 1820 www.abequipment.co.nz

Keeping fleet vehicles at their best Fleet maintenance and repair programmes for truck operators and commercial contractors such as Sub Surface Drilling, are an important part of Brook Truck Services’ business, says John McCabe, who owns the Rangiora-based firm with his wife Jackie. “These programmes keep the vehicles running at their best. “They also allow the client to budget for any impending repairs and schedule them in when it is most convenient.” He says the deterioration of Christchurch roads has made preventative maintenance and regular servicing even more important for heavy vehicles. “We’ve seen an escalation in wear and tear of vehicles since the earthquakes, especially shock absorbers and suspension damage. “Some of our clients have increased their servicing to every 4000 kilometres, or once a month, rather than at 5000 kms due to their vehicles’ heavy workloads and the rough road conditions.” John and Jackie McCabe started Brook Truck Services seven years ago. Last April the company moved into a new 25m x 36m purpose-built workshop behind Hunting & Fishing in a fast-growing industrial development at Flaxton Road, Southbrook, on the southern outskirts of Rangiora. “We’re well settled into our new premises which have a fully equipped workshop with a set of brake rollers. “The move has allowed us to continue to expand the business and we hope to take on at least another two staff this year.” John McCabe has more than 27 years experience in heavy transport mechanical repairs, having worked for various operators including New Zealand Express Transport, TRS, McCarthy and Wiltshire Transport, before starting Brook Truck Services. He currently employs three other fully qualified mechanics who provide “top quality repairs and workmanship including “some

Brook Truck Services has moved into a new 25m x 36m purpose-built workshop in Rangiora. welding”, and who have vast experience in most makes and models of heavy vehicle. The balance of the team is made up of three apprentices and three office administrators. “We can handle any job, big or small and provide guaranteed work at a competitive price. Having a smaller team means we can offer a more personalised service.” Brook Truck Services is also a fully equipped hydraulic hose repair facility, and offers a breakdown and after hours service when required.

The LTSA’s Operator Rating System continues to generate additional work for the company, given that information gathered at a COF inspection is one of several determining factors used to rate transport operators on the safety of their fleet and compliance with land transport safety legislation. “We offer pre-COF fault finding inspections to identify and fix any problems a vehicle may have in passing its COF. “If these problems are fixed before hand the vehicle usually sails through its inspection and the

operator is more likely to attain a higher rating,” says McCabe. Brook Truck Services is handily located near the local vehicle testing station where the COF inspections take place, making the process even more seamless for the company’s clients. Overall, the McCabes are happy with the progress of Brook Truck Services, he says. “Things are ticking over nicely and we look forward to the continuing expansion of the business during 2014/15.”

BROOK TRUCK SERVICES LIGHT & HEAVY TRUCKS | TRAILERS | MOTOR HOMES • COF Repairs • Full Mechanical Repairs

P roud to support

• Hydraulic Hose Repairs

Sub Surface Drilling Ltd

• Breakdown & After Hours Service - 24/7

331d Flaxton Rd [behind RD1] | Ph: 03 313 6361 | Cell: 027 520 0711 | brooktrucks@xtra.co.nz

CONTRACTING » Queenstown Engineering

42 |

Business South

Busy firm enjoying new work space Jo Bailey Queenstown Engineering 2009 Ltd has moved to new purpose-built facilities, developed to accommodate the firm’s rapid growth, says director Allan Foote. “Having all our processes under one roof has consolidated our existing services and made our processes far more streamlined and efficient. “Our guys enjoy having more light and space to work in. We can now spread out and work on multiple jobs at the same time.” Foote and his business partner Justin Taylor developed the 620 metre workshop on their own site at Glenda Drive in the Frankton Industrial Area. Features of the building include three tonne overhead gantry cranes and full truck-height doors. The multi-faceted company has wide ranging expertise in industrial engineering, structural and architectural steel, metalwork, and certified welding. “In a small town like Queenstown you can’t afford to be too specialised. “The bulk of our work is construction related but the demand for our services is fairly evenly spread between structural steel, sheetmetal and metalwork,” he says. Queenstown Engineering’s clients range from one-man building operations to big firms like Naylor Love Construction and Arrow International. “We also work closely with architects and designers and currently have quite a few residential projects on the go involving structural steel and high-end metalwork.” The firm has supplied metalwork for a number of award-winning homes at Millbrook Resort, Queenstown Hill, Jack’s Point and Cardrona, he says. “We get to work on some pretty spectacular homes, so there is always some interesting stuff going on.” The firm’s reputation for delivering excellence and artistic flair means it is often approached by clients with a design “a little bit on the edge of what’s possible”. This high-end work sometimes sees Queenstown Engineering make nearly full-scale samples of a product, he says. “We’re making a full size roof canopy sample at the moment to prove the job can be done and to work out any niggles before we start on the project.” Foote says Queenstown Engineering builds a lot of conventional and spiral stairways, balustrades, handrails and fences, with materials including stainless steel, powder coated steel and glass balustrades. The company has its own surface coatings division which carries out abrasive blasting, galvanizing and industrial spray painting. It also works on infrastructure and maintenance projects for large companies such as Fulton Hogan and Queenstown Lakes District Council, as well as many commercial projects including the refit of a

Queenstown Engineering is now based in a new purpose-built workshop at Glenda Drive in the Frankton Industrial Area. local supermarket with stainless steel sheetmetal and metalwork features. Queenstown Engineering was originally founded as a one man operation in 2003. Foote has been involved for the last eight years, and took over the business in 2006. He and Taylor went into partnership in 2009. “Staff numbers and turnover have increased dramatically since Justin came on board. “We could still do with more skilled staff but the shortage has become quite critical, hence we’re on the tools a lot of the time as well.” Foote is a qualified AS2214 welding supervisor which is a requirement of AS/NZ 1554 welding of steel structures. “Quality assurance of welding is important to give clients confidence their job is fabricated to specification.” The Queenstown construction sector has had some ups and downs over recent years. However Foote says the general market is “quite positive” again. “We’re looking forward to some pretty solid trading this year. “Interest rates don’t affect the top end of the residential market too much, and there is a fair bit of commercial activity coming up as well.”

“In a small town like Queenstown you can’t afford to be too specialised. The bulk of our work is construction related but the demand for our services is fairly evenly spread between structural steel, sheetmetal and metalwork.”

PP SUPPLIERS OF Aluminium Extrusion & Sheet. Scaffolding & Ladders. Fasteners. Sealants. Hardware & Lots More.

Proud Suppliers & Supporters of Queenstown Engineering

Ph. 03 442 3036 www.queenstownengineering.co.nz

Delivering Beyond Expectation

25 Bond Street, Invercargill Phone John 03 218 4124 Fax 03 218 4024 Email invls@uacl.co.nz www.ullrich-aluminium.co.nz

PRECISION PROFILE LTD P L AT E

C U T T I N G

S E R V I C E

Suppliers of precision cut plate components

Proudly Supporting Queenstown Engineering

12 Birch Street, Dunedin PO Box 2365, South Dunedin Tel: (03) 4777 277 Fax: (03) 4777 018 Email: precisionprofile@clear.net.nz

L O CA L LY O W N E D A N D OPERATED

CONTRACTING » GT Liddell Contracting

Business South

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Company adapts to changing market Kelly Deeks One of the South Island’s most diverse contracting companies, Liddell Contracting, has refocused its services to adapt to economic changes on the West Coast. Liddell Contracting was established by Graham Liddell in 1992, with a team of two staff. Over the past 22 years the company has built a reputation based on innovation – meeting challenges and providing solutions for complicated and technically and geographically challenging ventures. Liddell Contracting now has a team of 32 skilled staff, working across engineering, crane and construction, and blasting and coating divisions. The company also designs and manufactures the Kotuku range of outdoor furniture and industrial products from its Greymouth premises. Liddell says the closure of Pike River and Spring Creek coal mines has seen Liddell Contracting lose a large amount of its infrastructure work. This problem has been compounded by the Christchurch earthquakes taking civil projects funding away from the West Coast. “We’ve had to shift our focus away from bridge building and infrastructure work and reshape the business,” he says. “We’re now focusing on manufacturing. We lifted our game on that and we’re looking at the Christchurch market to see where we can fit in. “Structural steel is the main one, and we’re also looking for opportunities for our Kotoku furniture range.” Liddell Contracting has changed the layout of its well-equipped Greymouth workshop and its manufacturing processes to suit the volume manufacturing required for structural steel. An expansive yard gives the company the capacity to handle large quantities of steel, and the overhead gantry crane and machine shop mean the engineering workshop can handle jobs of all sizes from small balustrades to 100 tonne portal frames. Qualified staff carry out certified welding and experienced fitters and turners carry out machinery repairs and plant rebuilds, either in the workshop or on site. The Kotuku furniture range is manufactured in the engineering workshop by a team of dedicated craftsmen. A standard range of furniture, including bench seats, tree guards, rubbish bins, and bus shelters is available, and with an in-house design team, furniture can be designed and built to a client’s own specifications. The workshop facilities are set up with blasting

Liddell Contracting’s crane and construction division has a dedicated and versatile team of crane operators, riggers, and tradesmen.

“We’ve had to shift our focus away from bridge building and infrastructure work and reshape the business. We’re now focusing on manufacturing. We lifted our game on that and we’re looking at the Christchurch market to see where we can fit in.” booths, painting booths, an arc spraying machine, and a large yard that can handle oversized items. Liddell Contracting can carry out a wide range of abrasive blasting operations both indoors and outdoors with its mobile blasting units, using a variety of abrasive materials. “We have extensive experience in major industrial work including bridges, storage tanks, and fishing vessels, along with road marking removal, refurbishing farm implements, truck chassis, and transporter trailers,” Liddell says, “And of course we cater to the building industry by preparing and priming structural steel for installation.” A wide range of industrial coatings are available, including zinc arc spray and a wide variety of paint finishes from high build epoxies and high temperature resistant coating, to high

gloss polyurethanes, using both conventional and airless spray units. Liddell Contracting’s crane and construction division has a dedicated and versatile team of crane operators, riggers, and tradesmen working South Island wide. “We have cranes available from 5ton to 100ton, pile driving rigs, an array of man cages, and a qualified, dedicated, and versatile crew of riggers and dogmen to assist with the process,” Liddell says. “Our hiab has a fly jib and man cage attachment to reach those difficult areas.” Major construction projects the company has been involved with recently include the new 3500sqm Westfleet processing facility in Greymouth. The new factory is scheduled to be competed in September this year.

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FREIGHT » Gateway Cargo Systems

Business South

Personal touch underpins success Kelly Deeks South Island-owned and operated specialist import air and sea-freight forwarding company Gateway Cargo Systems has recently expanded with the takeover of the New Zealand arm of US-based freight forwarding company Dieterle and Victory. Gateway Cargo Systems was founded in 1989, established by workmates Paul Gilbert and James Steel. The pair have both been in the industry since 1979, and were working together for Trade Air Ocean Ltd until its merger with Mainfreight. As a result of this takeover both Gilbert and Steel considered their options. “We had a client base that had been working with us for years, so we saw an opportunity to start our own business,” Steel says. “Right from the start we wanted to create a culture based on the personal touch and to always be accessible to our clients. “We believed our clients wanted to be able to call us up and talk to someone in the office here in New Zealand, someone who can answer their questions. “We also wanted our customers to know the buck stops with Paul and I, and if we need to make a decision, we make it.” Gateway Cargo Systems has grown steadily over the past 16 years, expanding to a team of six by 2005 which remained constant until the takeover last year with only three staff changes over that time. “The stability of our staff has always been one of our great assets, in fact our staff are our greatest asset,” Steel says. With hands-on service and communications the key to Gateway Cargo Systems’ business and growth, improvements in information technology, emails, and software since the company started now allow it to provide more information more easily to its clients. “The advances of the internet and email communication have certainly improved the way we do business,” Steel says.

Christchurch-based Gateway Cargo Systems has grown steadily over the past 16 years. “But the personal touch still remains very important, and we are committed to providing this along with the most economical and expedient transits.” The takeover of Dieterle and Victory’s New Zealand operations has increased Gateway Cargo Systems’ team of staff from six to 10.

The company now has a base of experience expanding over 40 years in the industry. It has also exposed Gateway Cargo Systems to a greater market share, and has improved the service for its clients by increasing the pool of international freight agents within its network. Gateway Cargo Systems can choose the best

agent to provide the best service for each individual client’s requirements. Steel says this is an advantage the company has over larger freight forwarding corporations, who could be locked in to dealing with specific offices rather than establishing relationships to suit the customers’ needs.

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TRANSPORT » NZ Express Transport

Business South

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Growth drives move to new premises Karen Phelps NZ Express Transport (2006) Ltd has moved to new purpose-built premises as a result of the continued growth of the company, says managing director John Petrie. The company is now located in the new industrial area of Portlink Park on a 20,000 square metre site. It has a 2000sqm warehouse and 1000sqm weather protected working canopy to ensure product is not exposed to adverse weather. NZ Express Transport was previously operating from five separate sites around Christchurch so having dedicated premises is expected to make a huge difference to the operational side of the business, says Petrie. NZ Express Transport is one of New Zealand’s oldest transport operators, being founded in Dunedin in 1867. NZ Express Transport (2006) Ltd was purchased in April 2006 by a consortium of mid-Canterbury carriers: John Petrie, Wilson Bulk Transport and Philip Wareing Ltd. The company’s clients are predominately Christchurch based and involved in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. The company’s core business is moving containers to and from the Lyttelton Port Company, general freight deliveries and bulk container tipping for delivery of bulk commodities. The new site includes a large warehouse facility with pallet racking for 1700 pallets, a marked increase from the 300-pallet storage capacity the company previously offered. Petrie says the investment in this side of the business has been driven by customer demand. “We see warehousing as being somewhere where we can add value to our customers. “We are definitely looking to grow this side of the business,” says Petrie. NZ Express Transport collects shipping containers from Lyttelton port, de-vans the containers and, if required, palletises, shrink wraps and stores them in the new racking system.

NZ Express Transport does a lot of container handling to and from the Lyttelton Port Company at its Portlink Park premises. Items such as export timber can also be packed and shipped direct to the client or to the client’s customers. To help it to keep track of everything, the new facility also includes the latest CargoWise software technology which allows NZ Express Transport to

expertly track each pallet. Petrie says that there are plans to offer an online system where their customers can log in any time and see what stock they hold at NZ Express Transport. An example of product utilising the system is

steel beam from 12-18 metres in length which has been discharged at Nelson port and transported by road to Christchurch. Most is used for the rebuild and is stored on site and then delivered to the client. • To page 46

John Petrie: happy with how the company’s new premises are working.

• Low Ground Pressure When Fully Loaded • Rough Terrain & Ramp Friendly • Works on Compacted Stone, Bitumen & Light Concrete • Exceptional 3-Wheel Manoeuvrability Circle • Improves Productivity Proud to be associated with NZ Express Transport

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46 |

TRANSPORT » NZ Express

Business South

New premises driven by growth • from page 45 The warehouse and container packing and unpacking services are complemented by the company’s dedicated transport division, which not only picks up containers from port but delivers them to customers within the greater Christchurch area. Forwarding of products further afield can also be arranged. The transport division offers some of the latest trailer designs and can transport containers up to 32 ton on approved routes. The company operates two units capable of transporting 3 x 20 foot containers (or 1 x 20 foot and 1 x 40 foot container), eight container sidelifters for container delivery to clients and a Combi Lift container handler. This allows for container collection from the port and consolidation at the depot for timely delivery to the client. A night shift is also operated transporting containers to and from the port complementing this service.

The company’s new base at Portlink Park also includes a Ministry of Primary Industries registered transitional facility capable of handling at risk goods such as imported items that may be dirty and require cleaning before being released to the importer. NZ Express Transport is also classified as a New Zealand Customs bond store and container storage facility. Petrie says that being able to offer these services is “vitally important” as when containers arrive they must be taken from the port within three days and goods offloaded and the container returned within seven days or the importer can face costly daily charges. “We work very hard to ensure that we get containers off port for our clients, unpack them and then return the containers back to port again within these time-frames to reduce costs to the customer,” says Petrie. “Our commitment is that our customers always receive top priority in terms of pro-active communication and high service standards.”

The company’s new base at Portlink Park also includes a Ministry of Primary Industries registered transitional facility capable of handling at risk goods.

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Innovation in Transportation Since 1948

Business South

TRANSPORT » NZ Express

Port Connection pays dividends Karen Phelps Today it’s possibly New Zealand’s oldest transport company but it is a success story that almost never was. Although by 1920 The New Zealand Express Co Ltd was thriving with 11 offices in New Zealand cities and provincial centres, when the Depression and stock market crash hit in the 1930’s the business environment became challenging. NZ Express Transport was broken up with various regional offices being sold to new independent owners and eventually all the NZ Express companies, excluding Auckland, were absorbed by other firms. But all was not lost. The Auckland office had been purchased by Maurice Simson who eventually through acquisition moved operations into the Wellington region. In 1974 he acquired Christchurch-based Brightlings Transport and the NZ Express name was again on the roads of Christchurch. The Auckland and Wellington branches were closed following the deregulation of the industry in the 1980’s making it a proudly Christchurchbased business.

Throughout its history NZ Express has been involved in a variety of activities, not just in cartage. The company was involved in the importation of trucks and buses as well as acting as agents for Orwell electric trucks, international forwarding including air freight handling and customs brokerage and household removals. But it was a relationship developed with Port of Lyttelton that proved the company’s strength and eventually four strong divisions evolved: road transport, warehousing, international forwarding and container services. NZ Express Transport (Christchurch) Ltd was still owned by the Simson family when it was sold to the Lyttelton Port Company in 2005. In 2006 the Lyttelton Port Company sold the international division to a local international freight forwarder and the transport division to a consortium of Mid-Canterbury carriers - Wilson Bulk Transport, Philip Wareing Ltd and John Petrie - who would retain the NZ Express name. The rural-based companies had been working closely together and saw the acquisition as an opportunity to extend their involvement in the transport industry and grow the company and brand. Operating from the new depot at Portlink, in Kennaway Road, Woolston, NZ Express Transport continues to be a major container transport operator in Christchurch.

It was a relationship developed with Port of Lyttelton that proved the company’s strength and eventually four strong divisions evolved: road transport, warehousing, international forwarding and container services.

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Link drives expansion Since Port Hills Truck Centre started in 2013 the company has doubled staff numbers and is constantly expanding its client base, says company director Jason Moore. The company was started when customer New Zealand Express Transport approached Moore to take on its servicing requirements and Moore acknowledges this as key to the company’s success. “New Zealand Express Transport really gave us the opportunity to expand,” he says. Port Hills Truck Centre grew out of Port Hills Forklift Services 2000 Limited, which Moore still owns and operates from Lyttelton. He says the companies complement each other well and offer distinct areas of expertise as their names suggest. Based in Brightlings Road, Christchurch, at dedicated premises near New Zealand Express Transport, Port Hills Truck Centre offers a four full length service bays, full lube bay pit, brake roller machine with tie down points and truck and car hoists. The company’s services cover all makes and models of trucks up to around 20 tonnes and include light engineering services, vehicle advice, repairs and maintenance, brake roller testing, WOF service for cars, light vehicles and forklifts, pre-COF checks and forklift hire. To Moore’s knowledge Port Hills Truck Centre is the only electronic braking systems repairs and installations specialist in Christchurch. The company also uses high quality Total Lubricants oils.

Port Hills Truck Centre employs six qualified mechanics and is open six days. When necessary the company utilises the specialised skills of nearby businesses such as Sparks Auto Electrical and ER Welding in order to offer customers a complete service. A mobile service which can go to the client’s site anywhere in Canterbury ensures customers’ forklifts and machinery is back in action as quickly as possible. A key service to avoid downtime is the company’s preventative maintenance plans, which offers regular scheduled checks and servicing. Port Hills Truck Centre is presently in the process of becoming a COF approved centre meaning it will be able to issue COFs in-house by the end of the year meaning less downtime and a quicker service for customers. Port Hills Truck Centre’s customers are diverse and include City Care, Bidvest, BJ Dakins, Jamon Construction, Independent Lines and Lyttelton Port Company. But the company doesn’t just cater to businesses – it also services and repairs cars for the public and is an approved Warrant of Fitness station. Moore says the company’s location positioned between the city and the Port of Lyttelton, a route many key customers must travel – has been one of the keys to the company’s success. With the Christchurch rebuild in full swing Moore expects company growth to continue for many years yet.

Call today for quality truck service and forklift repair in Canterbury

At Port Hills Truck Centre, we provide quality truck and light vehicle servicing and other mechanical repairs in Canterbury for all makes and models and we work hard to get you on the road quickly, and safely. Our services include; • Light engineering • Vehicle advice • Truck repairs, servicing and maintenance • Brake roller testing with pulldown option • Pre-COF checks • Batteries • Forklift hire • Mobile truck servicing • Breakdown assistance • EBS specialist • Exceptional quality products and service • All other vehicle repairs and maintenance • WOF service for cars, forklifts and all other light vehicles Phone 03 376 5653 Email phtc@xtra.co.nz

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TRANSPORT » Christchurch European

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Business South

Bringing the best of Europe to NZ Kelly Deeks After nearly 10 years of trading, luxury vehicle dealership Christchurch European has established a New Zealand-wide reputation for providing a great selection of late model and competitively priced luxury European motoring. With more than 40 years of combined experience in European vehicles, the company not only provides a great selection, but also the necessary information discerning buyers need to make the right decision. Christchurch European dealer principal Nick Mills says the company’s business grew quickly, and after five years Christchurch European shifted premises to a high profile and easily accessible Blenheim Road site, which allowed it to double its stock. There are now 120 to 150 vehicles on site at any one time, with another 20 to 30 vehicles en route to New Zealand. Christchurch European caters for all tastes and desires, stocking Europe’s finest vehicle makes from Audi Q7s and A4 convertibles, to Minis, Jaguars, Range Rovers, Land Rovers, BMWs, VWs, and Volvos, with a scattering of the exotic and rarely seen Ferraris, Porches and Maseratis. Many of these vehicles have a worldwide warranty. Christchurch European was one of the first New Zealand companies to import high option UK exported cars at significant savings when compared with vehicles sold in New Zealand. The company tries whenever possible to bring in vehicles that are not normally available here, and prices are very realistic. As the European market receives new models before New Zealand does, Christchurch European is able to source them to order much more quickly, and save money at the same time. Mills says the advance of internet trading has been a significant factor in Christchurch European’s growth, and today about 50% of the company’s customers buy their new cars sight unseen, via the company website. “Internet buying and selling has grown a lot in the past five years,” he says.

Christchurch European caters for all tastes and desires, stocking Europe’s finest vehicle makes. “People have become more internet savvy, and more competent and confident buying cars sight unseen. You can do all your research online, saving people time kicking tyres, and with our website available 24 hours a day, you can buy a car in the middle of the night.” Christchurch European’s website is easy to navigate, and each vehicle is comprehensively described with multiple photos and even a video option, so vehicles can be compared and evaluated thoroughly.

“People have become more internet savvy, and more competent and confident buying cars sight unseen. You can do all your research online, saving people time kicking tyres, and with our website available 24 hours a day, you can buy a car in the middle of the night.”

Christchurch European frequently delivers vehicles nationwide to all main centres with Toll Auto Express/NZVD. “All vehicles are independently complied and inspected by VTNZ on arrival at Christchurch European, detailed to a very high standard, and issued with a new Warrant of Fitness on sale,” says Mills. Trade ins are most welcome, independent inspections can be arranged, and EFTPOS and credit cards are accepted. Christchurch European also has its own onsite specialist European vehicle mechanic and auto-electrician.

Paul Carter - Managing Director

NATIONWIDE SUPPLIERS

T: 03 365 7544 | F: 03 366 5521 M: 021 733 100 | E: sales@importparts.co.nz www.importparts.co.nz

FREE PHONE: 0800 657 544

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As an approved retailer, Mills says that Christchurch European can also further provide clients with the premium Vero Insurance Autosure range of extended mechanical/ electrical vehicle warranty cover for up to four years. This also comes with added 24 Hour AA Roadside Assistance on all vehicles. “If you can’t find what you want on the website, which is updated daily with new and impending arrivals, Christchurch European with its access to worldwide supply, may be the ones that can find it for you.”

Proud to support Christchurch European

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