104 | Technology key for firm Cambridge based Smythe Contractors are leaders in the use of underground trenchless drilling. Smythe Contractors T T Sue Rusell CONTRACTING Seventy two years ago, Bernie Smythe started installing phone and power cables using a mole plough. Those were pioneering days as new technologies were evolving. Today, and three generations later, Smythe Contractors stands proudly as a leading underground drilling company, based in Cambridge, Waikato. It was Bernie’s oldest son Mike, and youngest son Kevin who saw the opportunities that would present by becoming a leader in the use of underground trenchless drilling technologies. Sadly Mike passed away in December 2013, so son David stepped into the role as Managing Director in 2016, flanked by cousin Mark and uncle (BB) Kev. Carrying a long and proud history has been about maintaining the pioneering spirit Bernie exemplified and delivering exceptional quality work to a wide array of customers, from residential through to industry leading civil construction businesses as well as territorial authorities. The company undertakes projects throughout the North Island, such is the depth and breadth of its resources. David says the key to the company’s longevity has been mastering the technology, mitigation of risks and the quality of the team it engages. “Our culture permeates every part of the business,” says David. No matter the size or complexity of a project, Smythe Contractors always pays attention to the detail, in planning and execution. Not just the project, but the public, the residence and land owners. “It’s this dedication mutual respect, integrity that sets us apart.” And David says it’s not just about sticking to the script; it’s also about innovation. “We thrive on solving problems and thinking outside the box. When working with other contractors, we embrace a collaborative approach. We’re often called on to solve problems, and think outside the square,” says David. When Business North spoke with David, the company was busily working on some interesting projects. The Whitianga Stormont lane, a project the client had wanted to perform for nearly five years but had not found a suitable solution due the complexity of the scope of works, 80 metres down a steep bank, traversing the beach front with the most beautiful round stones and boulders. Smythe Contractors was engaged to supply and install 315 and 280mm HDPE pipe by HDD on shallow grades (1%) whilst navigating difficult ground conditions, manicured gardens along a private right of way within 20m of beach. “Collaboration with our client and construction partners, stakeholders and using several methodologies, achieved grades of 1%. Our team spent a full month doing additional work before we started on our contract works. Our client quickly recognised that a redesign would suit HDD works, and that we would be the team to achieve it,” says David. Working for Fulton Hogan, on a Waste Water Treatment Plant, Smythe Contractors Ltd was engaged to deliver HDD, civil drainage and utility and enabling works on a project that was close to home and close to the company’s core values of delivering environmentally proactive projects, increasing the sustainability of clients’ operations. Originally a small contract, additional scope was added and Smythe Contractors Ltd were required to undertake complex tasks on a fully working, vertical construction site with intensive construction program, heavy machinery, concrete foundation pouring while achieving minimal disruption to client site operations. “When this article goes to press we will be 800m into a 5,500m contract.” David stresses that uppermost when planning and executing a project, is care of the environment. The company’s mantra to leave “No Muddy Foot Prints” is the foundation on which its reputation is based. “We like nothing more than to exceed a customers service expectations and to build lasting collaborative relationships with our clients.” Building on the pioneering work of earlier generations, being prepared to roll your sleeves up and do the mahi no matter how conditions present, underpins how every project is approached. Being a family-owned and operated business, David says, adds an extra layer of pride to everything we do. “When we strive for excellence, it’s not just about meeting standards—it’s about upholding our family name and reputation. This commitment resonates with every member of our team, the wider family.” He says in the civil construction sector, Smythe Contractors Ltd are not simply participants, but still pioneers. “Our track record speaks for itself—consistently delivering and fostering meaningful connections with our clients. It’s not just about completing projects; it’s about leaving a lasting impression of quality and professionalism.” Smythe Contractors Ltd Ph: 021 989 278 email: accounts@smythecon.com Proud to support Smythe Contractors with professional accounting services WƌŽƵĚůLJ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƟŶŐ ^ŵLJƚŚĞ ŽŶƚƌĂĐƚŽƌƐ WŝƉĞůŝŶĞ /ŶƐƉĞĐƟŽŶ ĂŵĞƌĂ ^LJƐƚĞŵƐ &ZKD ZKhd/E D /Ed E E dK /E h^dZ/ > /E&Z ^dZh dhZ simply see ŝŶĨŽΛďĞůůƉƌĞĐŝƐŝŽŶ͘ĐŽ͘Ŷnj Ϭϳ ϵϳϱ ϬϮϯϱ ͮ dĂƵƌĂŶŐĂ ^ƉĞĐŝĂůŝƐƚƐ ŝŶ Polyweld Contracting Limited Neil Warner Mobile 027 272 4540 Ph 0800 PE PIPE (0800 73 7473) Email neil@polyweldcontracting.co.nz 137 Okowhao Road, R.D.2, Huntly 3772 PE Pipe Welding | Pipe and Fittings Supply | Digger Hire
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