| 71 T T Kim Newth Technology delivers the edge Smart investments in capacity and capability over recent years have lifted production to another level. JOINERY Hansens Hansens is known throughout New Zealand as a trusted name in residential and commercial interior joinery, undertaking custom joinery projects at scale on big fit-out projects nationwide. Smart investments in capacity and capability over recent years have lifted production to another level, further reinforcing their quality reputation. Two new edge banders plus two return tables, two new CNC machines and a fully automated board stacking system — all industry-leading and made in Germany — were installed in their newly enlarged Palmerston North factory in 2024. “We saw the full benefit of that investment for the first time late last year,” says Michelle Hyde, who with husband Grayson Hyde and another couple, has co-owned Hansens for 26 years. “It was a big learning curve for our team but has achieved everything we were hoping for and more — it’s just so efficient and precise.” Grayson worked for Hansens for a decade before he and Michelle, Gil and Christine, acquired the business from liquidators in 2000. Having worked hard for the business over many years, Michelle is now starting to step back. Daughter Kate Hyde is taking on her responsibilities managing human resources, health and safety, and finance. General manager Bryan Beals is also stepping back and retiring later this year with senior sales and contracts manager Dan Watson taking up the reins on sales strategy and on-site management. Looking at the year ahead, Kate says it’s gratifying to be starting 2026 with good projects on the books and signs of ongoing recovery in the local market. “We’re picking up a lot of new clients as well as repeat clients, who come back to us because they know they can rely on us both for quality and to finish the project; we won’t let them down.” Hansens employs a talented team of 30, including skilled and qualified tradespeople, programmers, sales and finance staff, complemented by experienced contractors and installers. The company is one of the busiest, most productive joinery firms in the lower North Island. Whether it’s custom joinery for homes, fit-outs for apartments or aged care facilities, or large-scale office fit-outs for banks, or government departments, Hansens is known for high-quality results. “Working in partnership with our preferred suppliers, we can also cover aspects like metalworks or upholstery for booth seating, as required,” observes Kate. Projects currently underway include high profile tenancy fit-outs at Te Whare Whakarauika Wellington Town Hall for the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) and Te Herenga Waka, Victoria University of Wellington’s New Zealand School of Music, Te Kōkī. “These are extensive fit-outs, with impressive bespoke joinery,” says Kate. “Specific timbers are being imported from all over the world as well as acoustic panelling from the US.” Another new contract for the team involves fitting out apartments for an iconic heritage building in Palmerston North CBD. “We’re really looking forward to being part of the building’s transformation,” says Michelle. • Shop Fitouts • Commercial Fitouts • Stainless steel handrails • Gates • Fences • Repair work • Water Jet Cutting METALFOLD INDUSTRIES. Palmerston North’s sheetmetal and light engineering specialists Whatever your engineering requirements, Metalfold have the experience and tools for your job. 24 Jasper Place, Palmerston North | Ph: 06 356 4733 metalfold@inspire.net.nz • www.metalfold.co.nz Proud to support Hansens Yo u r c h o i c e Proud to Support Hansens LAUNDRIES BATHROOMS KITCHENS RECEPTIONS HOSPITALITY 14 Bisley Street, Palmerston North. t 06 355 5971 www.counterconcepts.co.nz
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