| 73 T T Kim Newth A broad span of electrical services The Downs Group is one of Marton’s larger employers, providing valuable career pathways for young people in the Rangitikei District. The Downs Group CONTRACTING When local electrician Alfred Downs set up his Rangitikei electrical contracting company in 1953, he could never have imagined the thriving enterprise it would become. What began as a small operation in Marton has evolved into The Downs Group – a dynamic, multi-service company that plays a vital role in the region. Today, it offers electrical installations and maintenance, specialist street and architectural lighting, lines work as an approved contractor to Powerco, electrical appliances sales and repairs, mechanical contracting, and water services. “We are a group of companies all working as one, under one umbrella,” says managing director Robert Gunn. His journey with The Downs Group started in 1976 as an apprentice electrician under Alf Downs himself. By 1990, he had become a partner in the business. “I’ve certainly seen a lot of change in my time here. When I started, there would have been six of us. Now we are a team of 32, including four apprentices, a dozen fully qualified electricians, three linesmen and a linesman electrician. We also have two on the mechanical contracting side – specialising in water, wastewater, and stormwater pumping and reticulation systems – and we’re looking to expand further.” The Downs Group is one of Marton’s larger employers, providing valuable career pathways for young people in the Rangitikei District. Their apprentices gain hands-on experience across a variety of projects, setting them up for long-term success in the industry. But beyond business growth, Robert credits the loyalty of the local community as the driving force behind their success over the past seven decades. “That’s why we’re committed to giving back,” he says. “This time of year, many people are looking for sponsorship, and we’re proud to support local events, clubs and charities. We don’t publicise as much as we could – it’s just part of our responsibility to the community.” The Downs Group works very closely with the Rangitikei District Council and local industries to provide top-tier contracting services. Their expertise spans from electrical infrastructure design and development to urgent plant breakdowns, covering everything from farms to council facilities, the local rendering plant and landfill, a malting company and even a dog biscuit factory. “Our number-one focus is keeping the local community running – not just Marton, but across Rangitikei,” Robert explains. “Automation and process control are passions of mine, and we also respond to emergencies. Whether it’s a power issue at a major plant, or simply fixing Mrs Brown’s light switch, we’re there.” Both Downs Contracting and Alf Downs Streetlighting are accredited with the internationally recognised ISO 9001 Quality Management System standard. Additionally, the Downs Group holds SiteWise Gold for 2025/26, and Totika approval, underscoring their dedication to workplace safety. “I never want to tell someone that their partner isn’t coming home because of an accident on our watch. Safety and the welfare of our workers is always our top priority.” Meanwhile, Robert says he would love to see more investment going back into New Zealand’s regions. As he observes, local contractors who live in their communities also spend locally and are accountable for their work. “If you support local contractors, then everyone prospers.” From its humble beginnings to its pivotal role in the region, The Downs Group remains a testament to hard work, community spirit and a commitment to excellence. With a legacy spanning 72 years, its impact on the Rangitikei District is undeniable – and its future, brighter than ever. 0800 800 243 www.ceg.co CEG proudly partnering with The Downs Group for over fty years Specialists in Electric Motors, Water pumps andWater Filtration NZ’s no. 1 pole supplier - Street and Floodlight, Traf c and Pedestrian, Car parks, Telco, public areas, and sports grounds. www.spunlite.co.nz www.windsorurban.co.nz Decorative Poles and lights and street furniture for Subdivisions, CBD and shared spaces. Proud to have supplied poles to The Downs Group, including the Palmerston North CBD Lighting upgrade.
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