| 117 T T Sue Russell Strength in adversity A notable project for the Ministry of Education involved the Mangatawhiri School upgrade. 720 Build BUILDING Auckland-based construction company 720 Build has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past eight years. Originally established as a carpentry subcontracting business, the company has consistently aimed to deliver exceptional value to clients while prioritising the well-being of its employees. Managing director Chris Powell and operations director Lawrence Lokeni identified a critical gap in the market: the need for fulltime, permanent employment in the construction sector, which offers stability and a focus on upskilling. “From its inception, 720 Build adopted the philosophy that all our employees should either be enrolled in an apprenticeship programme, or be qualified professionals actively seeking opportunities for advancement,” Chris says. In its early years, the company operated in both the commercial and residential sectors of Auckland, successfully building a sustainable business model characterised by repeat clientele and a strong reputation for quality labour. However, like many businesses, 720 Build faced unforeseen challenges when the Covid-19 pandemic triggered nationwide lockdowns. Construction sites were closed, and employees were sent home, leading to a period of uncertainty. During this time, Chris seized the opportunity for introspection and strategic planning. Together with Lawrence and Chris’s wife, Brianna, they recognised the necessity for resilience in the fluctuating construction landscape, particularly as Chris and Brianna were living in the Waikato and were unable to physically support Lawrence in Auckland during the lockdowns. As a result, the company expanded to include a main contracting division, 720 Projects. This strategic pivot involved establishing essential systems and documentation to effectively manage larger contracts, including those from Kāinga Ora and government agencies like the Ministry of Education. “To enhance our operational efficiency, we integrated software solutions designed to improve health and safety protocols and streamline construction management processes. “This transition allowed team members to work in a more flexible environment, no longer confined to traditional office or onsite settings,” Chris explains. The company began to diversify its project portfolio, successfully balancing subcontracting and main contracting roles, and attracting significant clients in the process. In the Waikato region, 720 undertook a variety of projects, including school renovations, home repairs for Kāinga Ora, and a substantial remediation project to upgrade six homes on a local farm to meet healthy homes standards. A notable project for the Ministry of Education involved the Mangatawhiri School, where an initial upgrade budget of $500,000 for three classrooms and an administration office escalated to a $1.9 million re-clad of three blocks, due to unforeseen water damage behind the cladding. The project management team from the Ministry of Education collaborated closely with Chris and his team to navigate the complexities, ultimately resulting in the reconstruction of 90% of the original structure. Remarkably, the school maintained operations with minimal disruption, keeping only two classrooms out of service at any given time. By late July, the project at Mangatawhiri School was completed, much to the relief of all stakeholders. Chris emphasises the company’s commitment to giving back to the community, noting that 720 has contributed to approximately 12 schools in the Hauraki/North Waikato area. “We have donated materials such as timber for school production projects, and provided financial support for school fairs and golf fundraisers, thereby enhancing the facilities and overall educational environment for local tamariki,” says Chris. Unfortunately the construction industry’s downturn in 2023 presented another challenge for the team at 720. Once again, the company reassessed its operations, implementing changes aimed at achieving more manageable overheads, improved profitability, and a more secure workload. As 2024 draws to a close, there are signs of recovery, with interest rates declining and renewed interest in construction projects. Looking ahead, 2025 promises new opportunities for 720, including a duplex development in Auckland, remedial work at Waihi College, and a residential build in the Waikato. The journey of 720 Build and 720 Projects serves as a testament to the company’s adaptability and resilience, illustrating how the challenges posed by the pandemic catalysed significant developments within the organisation, ultimately enabling it to better serve both the community and its clients. Mike and Julie Todd bought JDC Cabinets nearly seven years ago and since this time, have grown the bespoke joinery company into a business with an enviable reputation. Julie says this comes down to the fact that Mike is able to come up with innovative and practical solutions to bring designs to fruition. “Mike has real lair for understanding just what it is that clients want. He can articulate their vision into practical, beautifully crafted joinery pieces, that not only serve a purpose but add real value to the space they occupy”. The company mission is to provide quality joinery at an a ordable price and to leave customers very happy with the end result. The company engages a skilled team including a QS/Programmer, fabricators and installers. One of the things that makes JDC Cabinets such a special business is the diverse range of work they are happy to take on. JDC Cabinets creates beautiful joinery for any size project from a small residential kitchen makeover to commercial work like schools, high-end apartment buildings, Kainga Ora housing, retirement villages etc. All your joinery needs are supplied as the company works with a variety of products including plywood, Melteca, stone, stainless steel, laminates and solid wood etc. “We get a real thrill from creating A flair for joinery something special for a client. Our attention to detail is second-to-none andwe’ve been fortunate enough to createmanywonderful joinery items for our clients, across commercial and private sectors.” As examples of the diverse range of projects JDC Cabinets gets involved in, Julie shares two particular examples. “We built a series of metre-high upholstered hexagon shapes, used in a learning centre at a school as reading nooks. They came up really well and made an engaging place for students to settle into and read.” Another project, of a very di erent nature, was the joinery for May Road School which was recently opened. JDC Cabinets made Whares as well as kitchens, window seating, display units, storage and charging units. JDC Cabinets were also commissed to provide all the joinery detailing for Metlife Care on Edgewater Drive. “That was a large undertaking as the four buildings in the retirement village were being built simultaneously.” Another recent project was at Mangatawhiri school for 720 Build where we constructed and installed a new reception counter, sta kitchen and storage units for the school. “We’re very pleased with where we are at now in our business journey. Anyone wanting to discuss their joinery needs is encouraged to phone us, no matter how big or small the job on (09) 622 1912.” jdccabinets@gmail.com | (09) 6221912 | www.jdccabinets.com Our highly skilled craftsmen are able to supply all your joinery. From reception counters to beautiful wooden panelling, kitchens, vanities, wardrobes etc. From large commercial projects to home kitchens we are committed to providing our products on time and within your budget. Exceptional quality is the foundation of our company, and is the driving force behind all decisions; whether it’s which materials to purchase or the best way to serve our customers. Our commitment to quality guarantees our success and your satisfaction.We can design, fabricate and install. We ensure your design vision becomes reality. JDC Cabinets
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