98 | BUILDING Jason Smith Construction T T Kim Newth Hāwera builder in growth mode “We did anything and everything, and I learned so much along the way. I take the same approach now in my own business.” Based in Hāwera, Jason Smith Construction has a growing team with the skills and experience to respond to a wide range of construction needs across Taranaki. Founder Jason Smith, who started his building career as a 16-year-old “fresh out of school”, cut his teeth in the industry with John Williamson Builders. He says the years he spent with John were invaluable for growing his knowledge and experience. “I started with him in 2003, and stayed with him until his retirement in 2017 – that’s when I began my own business,” says Jason. “John was a very well-rounded builder; he didn’t just do housing, we’d build things like cowsheds too. We did anything and everything, and I learned so much along the way. I take the same approach now in my own business.” This ‘can-do’ attitude has helped build a solid portfolio of diverse projects across Taranaki for Jason Smith Construction, including newhome builds and renovations, new commercial buildings, rural construction, such as cowshed builds and alterations, and one-offs like airplane hangars. Jason Smith Construction fosters close working relationships with clients, so there are no surprises. Clients are kept in the loop at every step. Supporting Jason and his team is a trusted network of local contractors and suppliers, including Chris Perrett Electrical Solutions, Kiser Civil, Pride Paper and Wallpapering, and Placemakers - Hāwera. Jason Smith Construction has played a significant role in facilitating regional growth, having completed a number of commercial buildings in recent years at the South Taranaki Business Park. Located in Hāwera, just off SH3, the business park is well-situated to enable trades and services businesses to grow and flourish. “The largest build we did there was a 3000sqm warehouse for UNO Windows & Doors. “I had not previously done anything at that scale, so it was a massive learning curve. We completed that in 2023; I’m really pleased with how it came together. Other projects we’ve done there include a bulk storage facility and a building for Dialog Fitzroy.” With a large and well-equipped workshop, Jason Smith Construction has all the capability required for projects of scale, and can make their own pre-cast panels. That capability ensures commercial projects can be delivered very efficiently on-site. The all-round agility of this business is fuelling a good influx of new projects. “We are a team of five locals, but soon to be six or eight. To be honest, I’m the busiest I’ve ever been and that’s why I’m looking for more staff. We currently have two cowshed builds coming up, along with some other projects in town.” Jason says a number of local dairy farmers are looking to upgrade their herringbone sheds to make them operate more efficiently. Having grown up on his parents’ dairy farm at Kaponga, near Riverlea, Jason understands what a difference these sorts of improvements can make. “We can do what’s required to make everything up to spec.” With growth in their sights, 2025 is on track to be another productive year for Jason and his team. PlaceMakers® haweraorders@placemakers.co.nz
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