92 | BUILDING Mitchell Construction T T Karen Phelps Family involved in every aspect of business The company’s recent projects include a multi-million-dollar building upgrade to St John’s College. Mitchell Construction stands out not just for its impressive portfolio of projects but for the unique touch of family values that sets it apart. Established in 1987 by Colin Mitchell, the company has been a stalwart in commercial building work in the greater Waikato, specialising in education, light commercial construction, earthquake strengthening and housing modifications for disabled individuals. “I was brought up on a farm, and family worked and did everything together,” explains Colin. “Having family involved in Mitchell Construction means it’s a more personal experience for our clients.” Family is involved in every aspect of the business. Colin is a trade-qualified builder who started in 1972. Paul Findsen, who has been with the company since inception, runs the overall office assisted by office manager Nicola Will. Wife Denise plays a pivotal role in the administrative side of the company. Daughter in law Natalie, works on administration, compliance and health and aspects of the company, while Colin and Denise’s daughter Nicole, handles site health and safety audits, ensuring the wellbeing of both employees and clients. Meanwhile Colin and Denise’s sons Bradley and Jared, who both served their apprenticeships with the company, work as project managers, focusing on quantities and administration. This multi-generational involvement creates a unique atmosphere that extends beyond business transactions, fostering a sense of trust and familiarity with clients, says Colin, especially important when dealing with clients in the company’s major sector of government and local council projects. “People like to know they are talking to the boss,” says Colin. “It’s a more direct connection, which makes for an easier communication experience.” Mitchell Construction has a team of experienced builders, which includes Harry Van Den Berg who has also been involved since inception plus a number of staff who have been with the company for 25 plus years, fostering a tightknit culture. Grandchildren and children of Colin and Denise’s extended work family also often gain work experience within the company. Mitchell Construction has been a trusted partner for the Ministry of Education, undertaking projects in early childhood centres, schools, and other educational institutions across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions. Their expertise spans a variety of projects, including classroom upgrades, administration buildings, gymnasiums, and auditoriums. Colin says that Mitchell Construction ensures minimal disruption to school activities while delivering high-quality construction. Beyond education, the company has carved a niche in commercial fit-outs, working across sectors like retail, hospitality and offices. It offers comprehensive project management services ensuring a seamless and timely delivery for clients. The company’s commitment to seismic safety is evident in its expertise in earthquake strengthening. In the wake of the Christchurch and Kaikoura earthquakes, Mitchell Construction has been actively involved in making buildings safer through repairs, facades and steel reinforcing. Mitchell Construction’s commitment to community welfare is further exemplified through its housing modification projects working closely with the Ministry of Health and Enable NZ. These modifications, ranging from handrails and ramps to extensive renovations for showers and kitchens, aim to facilitate independent living for individuals with disabilities. Mitchell Construction is adaptable, undertaking everything from small modifications to renovating entire properties. The company’s recent projects showcase the breadth of its capabilities. From a multi-million-dollar depot for St John Ambulance to an administrative block for LIC in Hamilton, Mitchell Construction has left an indelible mark on the landscape. Noteworthy is its $9 million project for St. John’s College in Hamilton, involving the addition of decks and walkways, and interior refurbishments. 2023 has also seen the company complete a $1.5m weather tightness project for Deanwell School in Hamilton involving stripping off cladding and replacing compromised timber, re-roofing and recladding. The company also does a lot of on-going work for Interlink Modular buildings, which are made in a factory in Auckland then transported to site. Mitchell Construction completes the site works, lifting of buildings onto site and finishing works for projects all over the central North Island and Auckland, even including Great Barrier Island. With on-going projects like the Hillcrest High School Learning Support Centre and the swimming pool complex at Patricia Avenue School in Hamilton as well as constructing a three-building housing complex for Kainga Ora, Mitchell Construction continues to shape the region’s infrastructure. Currently boasting a staff of 50, Mitchell Construction operates in the greater Waikato area and beyond, depending on the project’s scope. Colin says that having the family working in the business also means there is a natural succession plan in place, cementing the legacy of the company but more importantly ensuring a continued commitment to excellence and personalised service for years to come. Scafpro are proud to support Mitchell Construction The road to success is always under construction. www.jwigroup.co.nz | 021 170 3509 | jason@jwigroup.co.nz JWI Group is an exciting and innovative Civil earthworks, concrete and logging company. Working around the North Island to deliver quality and satisfaction to a wide variety of clients. DEVELOPMENT EARTHWORKS CONCRETE LANDSCAPING LOGGING BINWOOD
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