52 | Delivering on major works Bulk earthworks, geothechnical improvements and retaining structures are among the raft of services the company provides through its huge inventory of GPS-equipped scrapers, excavators and articulated dump trucks. T T from page 50 Hick Bros Civil Construction REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT “Our experience has given us an intimate knowledge of New Zealand’s geological conditions, and in turn we’ve built a reputation for our specialised construction techniques in all the major infrastructure, commercial and residential land developments sectors. “All the while following future-proofed eco-friendly business practices that are in line with ISO standards.” From a basis of early contractor involvement in its clients’ projects, the Hick Brothers team of technical specialists provides innovative solutions aimed at minimising cost, time, and health and safety risks. “We like to work with both clients and design teams from the outset to optimise construction design and manage unexpected scope changes,” Dan says. Hick Bros hasn’t been immune to the escalation and inflation that’s hit the construction sector since the Covid pandemic. “Fuel is increasing in price, and still remains one of our largest expenses. It’s likely to increase further as a result of overseas events creating supply chain uncertainty,” he says. Skilled and unskilled labour alike, as well as proficient technical staff, are all in short supply, and although the market is cooling somewhat after the post-Covid surge the company still faces major skills shortages. Environmental regulations and growing public fears about global warming have also created pressures, and there’s no prospect in sight for the earthmoving and construction industries to shake off their dependence on diesel fuels. Nor is there any clarity as to what will succeed diesel, though hydrogen is looking a possibility down the track. However Dan says Hick Bros sees an opportunity to underscore their point of difference in the marketplace by taking a pro-active approach to meeting the environmental challenges. “Environmental compliance is seen by us as an important and potentially beneficial differentiator for a business like ours when compared to others in a more competitive market,” he says. He sees little likelihood of the current rate of change in the industry slowing soon, and the company’s adaptability and diversification are key to its continued survival. • Specialist heavy duty pavements for ports, airports and other heavy duty requirements • New pavement construction • Residential developments • Pavement recycling • Road rehabilitation and maintenance recycling • Fill conditioning • Rail track stabilisation • Commercial platform slab optimisation • Earthworks • Aggregate modification • Subgrade recycling
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