| 63 T T Sue Russell Teamwork, diversity underpin growth A number of orchards are also being developed on the back of a downturn following the flood damage CONTRACTING NDP Fencing & Earthworks Owned and operated by Nigel and Deidre Parkinson, Napier-based NDP Fencing & Earthworks offers a range of services across farming, forestry, horticulture sectors to name a few, with plenty of work currently keeping the crews engaged. “There’s a lot of earthworks going on at the moment, farm tracks, building dams, retaining walls and the fencing crews are buzzing. We’re working right up the back of Wairoa, fencing between forestry blocks and farmland,” says Nigel. A number of orchards are also being developed on the back of a downturn following the flood damage. However, Nigel says he’s seeing a definite upturn in sheep and beef, dairy and horticultural activity, which will bring a big boost to the region. Nigel says the current crew size comprises 15 permanents and about 10 more casuals currently engaged during the development season. “I usually run with six crews working right across the Bay. These days, a lot of my time is spent talking to clients, pricing jobs and organising materials.” The quality of work undertaken is very important to Nigel; it’s what the business has built its reputation on, since its establishment in 2002. “I’ve got a good business structure, with each team having a senior manager in charge. These are highly experienced operators who understand what I’m expecting.” Over the years, business has diversified more into the civil sector, with Nigel always keen to seize opportunities to work in new spaces. “We’re doing a lot of work for Higgins, Downers, earthworks, fencing and retaining walls in particular.” Equipment is maintained to a high standard and the company carries Gold Site Wise rating. The majority of equipment used often is owned. However, Nigel says it makes sense to lease the gear that’s required infrequently. When the cyclone ravaged the region, Nigel’s own business was severely impacted. “It made a fair mess of things. We basically got wiped out, but we managed to salvage some gear. For the first five or six weeks following the flooding we were helping others in need.” After helping those most needing the skills and equipment NDP had to offer, work then turned to the commercial clients, orchardists and farmers. Looking back on that time, Nigel says he’s proud of the total team effort to assist as many people as possible in often very difficult situations. Nigel is also proud of the fact that most of his team have been with him for many years. “I’ve made a point of training them well, to work an array of equipment. I’ve also been fortunate to have a number of people come to me already qualified and experienced.” Along with those working in fencing and earthworks, Nigel also has a couple of fulltime builders, taking care of requests from clients for pole sheds, retaining walls and the like. “Everyone here multi-tasks – all the machinery operators and also fencers.” He is optomistic about the future as new clients continue to make contact, mainly through word of mouth. Nigel says when he started NDP Fencing & Earthworks he knew he had to grow the company to medium size to be competitive, and he’s pleased he’s reached that level. “If you’re small, you’re too busy working in the business rather than on the business, so it was always a priority for me to get to the size we are now.” Deidre is also very actively involved in the day-to-day operation of the business, taking care of the critical HR, Health & Safety, accounts and general administration. As Nigel says: “We’ve been a total team effort right from the start and I certainly couldn’t have grown the business well without her input.” “I’ve got a good business structure, with each team having a senior manager in charge. These are highly experienced operators who understand what I’m expecting.” 027 848 2170 | farmgearrural.co.nz Proudly supporting NDP Contracting Fencing HB Supplying all things rural with delivery anywhere in Hawke’s Bay available. No project too big or small with the supply of all fencing materials.
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