Business North December / January 2021

| 11 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Far North - Inti Construction Inti - enjoying problem solving in the Far North Kaitaia Tractors has a range of equipment to suit all types of farming. F ar-North builder Inti Jubermann began his construction journey back in 2006, firstly as a sole trader, hiring people as business grew. The company serves the entire Far North and today, Inti engages four carpenters on board and is looking for two more. He says its a wonderful region to live and build in. “There is a lot of interest from people to move to this area, for its climate and life-style. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” he says. His niche is in renovations and repair work, something he and the team enjoy for its challenges. “You are constantly figuring things out and problem solving. I find that very stimulating.” When Business North spoke with Inti he was engaged in a fascinating project renovating for a new owner, what was originally a prominent New Zealand artist’s retreat. When the home was first built the logs used for the foundation were not treated and sub- sequently rotted and Inti and the team will be building new footings, and doing a complete reclad, new roof and new decks. “It’s kind of like Grand Designs backwards. The work underground in particular has in- volved a lot of engineering,” says Inti. Work began in September and by late Oc- tober, most of the activity was still at ground level. All going well, this unique project will be completed in February. Asked about the impact Covid-19 has had Inti says the journey so far has been OK, with initially a large back-log of work scheduled. “Although it’s necessary, given our work- load, I do feel slightly reluctant to take on new crew members, with the uncertainty Covid-19 has created. When bringing on new people there’s a real responsibility to have ongoing work.” Sue Russell Though, in his past Inti has built many new homes, he says he most enjoys renovation and the satisfaction that comes from achiev- ing something out of a structure that may have had lots of problems to resolve. “Renovation is our niche. It’s nice to be able to bring an old building back to life.” He also believes being an owner-operator brings direct benefits to clients as the lines of communication are direct. “As a client you are dealing with the person whose reputation is on the line with each and every build. They deal direct with me and nothing is lost in translation.” “We have been a Case IH dealership right from Day 1 and then 13 years ago partnered with Kubota and later Husqvarna which extends the product offering to excavators, life-style and turf equipment.” When a machine requires attention on-farm, Kaitaia Tractors have especially equipped vehicles, carrying the equipment needed to undertake speedy repairs. “When you consider the capital investment a farmer has made, any down-time is very costly, so we aim to respond in the shortest possible time when the call comes in for help,” says Evan. Kaitaia Tractors also looks after a number of trucks, generators and other specialised equipment. A challenge to the industry is finding skilled tradesmen, so the emphasis in the past has been to find keen tradesmen and support them gaining their qualifications in heavy- trade agricultural. “We have a really good team and some very long serving employees. We make sure we maintain a strong working team culture.” And with such a long history in the district, Ralph says Kaitaia Tractors also engages with the wider community, supporting local schools, fishing comps and fundraising efforts as well as contributing to key local events like the annual A & P show. “I think when you’ve been around as long as we have there’s an obligation to give back to the community who have loyally supported you for so many years.” • Forestry • Farm • Ute Decks • T ow Bars• Hiab Hire • Marine • Mobile W elding • Hydraulic Hoses • Full Machine Shop • Steel, Aluminium & Stainless Phone: (09) 408-2228 Fax: (09) 408-2700 Mobile: 021 284-1240 Email: kaitaiaengineering@gmail.com PO Box 531 Dunn Street, Kaitaia PROUD SUPPLIERS TO INTI CONSTRUCTION LOCALS SUPPORTING LOCALS NZ MADE WHERE POSSIBLE sales@fnitm.co.nz www.farnorthitm.co.nz 191 Commerce St, Kaitaia 094080210 or 021408152 Knowledge and experience you can trust. With over 20 years’ experience, Kaitaia Plumbing are the team you turn to for all your residential and commercial plumbing needs. We’re locally owned and operated… including a 24-hour emergency service. nd experience you can trust. i ’ i , i i l i ll i i l i l l i . ’ l ll i l i i .