60 | Reliability showcased in aftermath Berkett Aggregates operates out of approximately 12 quarries across Hawke’s Bay, specialising in supplying aggregate for forestry roading and the Hastings District Council’s rural roading network. Hawke’s bay: Berkett Aggregates T T Karen Phelps REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT A family-owned business in Hawke’s Bay has been quietly shaping the region’s infrastructure for over a decade. Berkett Aggregates, founded by Shane and Bonnie Berkett in 2008, has become an integral part of the local community, supplying vital materials for everything from forestry roads to post-disaster reconstruction. Shane Berkett’s journey into the aggregate industry is rooted in family tradition. Shane, and brother Brendon, worked for Berkett Earthmovers, their father Ray’s company, when they left school. This early exposure to heavy machinery and earthmoving laid the foundation for what would become Berkett Aggregates when Shane branched out on his own. Brendon started an earthmoving business of his own, and the two brothers often work in together on jobs. Berkett Aggregates operates out of approximately 12 quarries across Hawke’s Bay, specialising in supplying aggregate for forestry roading and the Hastings District Council’s rural roading network. The company’s versatility is evident in its product range, which includes lime rock used in rock revetments, and materials for local civil developments. Shane says that what sets Berkett Aggregates apart is its ability to adapt to client needs. “We can be extremely responsive and pride ourselves on being able to deliver product when it’s requested.” This flexibility is made possible by their impressive fleet of machinery, including 20- to 50-tonne excavators, wheel loaders, and crushing plants. The company’s mobile plant allows it to move between quarries and even offer on-site aggregate processing for clients, significantly reducing transport costs. This innovative approach has positioned Berkett Aggregates as a leader in the local industry, says Shane. The true measure of Berkett Aggregates’ responsiveness became evident in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle. Shane and his team were among the first responders, working tirelessly to reopen roads and supply aggregate for the rebuild efforts. This rapid response showcased the company’s vital role in the region’s infrastructure. Shane’s commitment to quality and reliability is evident in his choice of equipment sourced from Equip2. “Equip2 have been really good at recommending the right machinery for us,” he notes. “They have also learned from us as well and have adapted some of their machinery to fit our requirements. This collaborative approach with suppliers has allowed Berkett Aggregates to stay at the forefront of industry technology and efficiency.” The company’s impact on the local community extends beyond just supplying materials. Berkett Aggregates is actively involved in training the next generation of quarry workers. He says this investment in people has created a tight-knit team of around five staff and five subcontractors. “We work alongside MITO for quarry training,” Shane explains. “We have a young school-leaver training for his B grade quarry ticket at the moment. We also have three other staff that hold that certificate, meaning there is a lot of skill in-house.” Despite its growth, the company maintains a personal touch. Shane is actively involved out on the job each day, and Bonnie takes on the administration side of the business. “We’re large enough to get the job done, but small enough to offer a personal service,” says Shane, “and that’s what sets Berkett Aggregates apart.” AGRICULTURAL CONTRACTOR EARTHMOVING • AGGREGATE CARTAGE SPREADING ON FARMS • FORESTRY CIVIL PROJECTS ALL OVER HAWKES BAY 027 368 4802 | matt@fryerag.com Large-scale Earthworks • Aggregate, Limestone & Rock Supply; On-road Spec & Decorative Landscaping • Cyclone Gabrielle Clean-up 021 416 448 shane@berkettaggregates.co.nz @BerkettAggregates
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