| 127 EXPERIENCES Weir Bros T T Russell Fredric Reaching a half century a big milestone Weir Bros is now in its 53rd year. More than 50 years on, Weir Bros continues to build on its legacy while creating a future that includes tourism to connect visitors with Taranaki’s varied attractions. Weir Bros is now in its 53rd year, with co-owner Callum Chapman, his cousin Stacy, and Clark and Margaret involved in the family-owned business. Reaching a half century has been a significant milestone for a business Callum describes as a community-led company. “For us, it’s pretty special to still be here and still be operating.” The business has 42 vehicles, including about 14 rental vans, with the business balanced between Ministry of Education school runs, tours and charter work. School transport is the “bread and butter”, while tours and charters provide complementary work. Its 37 staff includes school bus drivers, two workshop staff and three office staff. “For us, it’s pretty special to still be here and still be operating I’m very fortunate to have the opportunity to carry the legacy on.” Callum says long-serving employees have become part of the extended ‘family’, with some connections to customers stretching across three generations. Investment has included relocating from the company’s previous backyard premises into a facility that is better suited to the operational needs of the business as it continues to grow and evolve. The move has also provided an opportunity to place a greater focus on sustainability and environmental improvements. This includes a dedicated vehicle-washing area with a threestage separator to help prevent grime, oils and other contaminants from entering the wastewater system. Looking ahead, Weir Bros is also investigating solar generation and rainwater capture, with the aim of reducing reliance on mains electricity and using captured water for vehicle washing where practical. “We’re trying to look at the impacts on our environment.” Fleet investment is ongoing, with Weir Bros keeping an eye on Euro ratings and new technology. The company has signed up to build a new coach next year on a Scania chassis, while electric touring coaches are seen as a far-horizon possibility rather than being adopted before the technology and infrastructure can meet the demands of longer-distance work. Weir Bros is committed to supporting the local Hāwera and South Taranaki community by purchasing goods and services locally wherever practical. Across our fleet and wider business operations, “We try to engage local suppliers, tradespeople and service providers where we can.” PROUD TOSUPPORTCALLUM, THE TEAMATWEIR TOURS, AND THE GROWTHOFOUR REGION For over 65 years, La Nuova has partnered with businesses across New Zealand, delivering trusted linen, workwear, and laundry solutions. We're proud to support local businesses like Weir Tours that help showcase the very best our region has to offer to visitors from near and far. La Nuova Linenmaster | Apparelmaster Supporting Local business since 1959 lanuova.co.nz P. 06 758 1199 | E. info@mcdev.co.nz | www.mcdev.co.nz Smart insurance solutions, powered by local expertise. Protecting what matters most - your business, home, contents and vehicles. “Proud to help protect the business of Weir Tours” T T to page 128
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