122 | SmartSteel Buildings - Whakatane BUILDING Smart move into steel construction T T Sue Russell There’s always an element of uncertainty once the decision has been made to set up business, but for Puruhi Peachey, whose company SmartSteel Buildings, is based in Rotorua, the first year has been a positive and successful experience. SmartSteel Buildings offers customers an array of steel-constructed sheds, garaging and canopy options, serving the rural, commercial, residential and industrial sectors. “I was drawn to the brand given its extremely sophisticated software and building systems, delivering cost-effective quality results from first engagement through to handing over the keys,” Puruhi says. As an operations manager for another steel structure company, Puruhi gained extensive experience working with steel buildings. In that role he completed many significant projects, including a St John building in Turangi, and the Central Plateau emergency management centre level 4 buildings. When he finished his former employment, Puruhi had people approach him to project manage their builds, and it was from this experience that he decided to step out on his own under the SmartSteel Buildings brand, a decision he knows was the right one for him in his building journey. “I think it’s that we have such refined systems that save time and money that appeals to our customers. “They can see the amount of thought and care that has gone into developing them, and reap the benefits.” Explaining the progress of a project from initial contact, Puruhi says a carefully managed set of steps is worked through. “We have a sit down with the client over a coffee and I ask all the questions as to what they require of the build. Within a couple of days of this taking place, I present them with indicative costings. “Once a design and engineering is complete, we submit your project for consent and use this time to pre-order materials and prepare to establish on site.” Sophisticated software provides the team with all the information they require to order only the materials needed for the build, substantially reducing wastage. SmartSteel Buildings Rotorua – Whakatane operates over an area extending from Rotorua through to Whakatane and Opotiki and south to Reporoa. A n exciting project that started in December was an 1850sqm warehouse and showroom for the 4WD Warehouse. “Generally, a project of this size, once the foundation is down and allowed to cure for seven days, the pre-aseambled portals are then stood and purlins placed, girts, as per our plans, the steel structure will be stood up in five weeks. “We are using a product called Dridex on the roof, which eliminates the need for paper or netting on the roof speeding this process. In all, the building is up in around 12 weeks.” The project was right in the mix of Christmas, so there was a slight delay for 2024, but a head start for January 2025, Puruhi says. Each structure built is bespoke, he emphasises, ensuring the client gets exactly what they want for their unique situation, through the use of SmartSteel’s design software. With 2024 behind him, Puruhi, who is a qualified architectural aluminum estimator, says he is really looking forward to what 2025 will bring. His business is one of 10 SmartSteel licensed operators in New Zealand and he says there are opportunities in other parts of the country for people to become a brand member. “There’s plenty of help for those starting up from the founder Hamish. He has high standards about who he will offer a licence to. He knew me and my background in the industry.” Puruhi also stresses that the quality and value SmartSteel is able to pass on to clients is the direct result of strong supplier relationships, with companies such as Steel + Tube. “Our suppliers offer excellent products and all have a proven track-record. It’s a strong and supportive relationship, which delivers huge benefits to our customers. I’m very much looking forward to what this year has to bring.” 027 490 1646 antz@antzelectrical.co.nz Antz Electrical Limited P.O. Box 2284, Taupo www.antzelectrical.co.nz 027 506 8236 www.swcrete.co.nz swcrete.nz@gmail.com PROUDLY SUPPORTING SMARTSTEEL BUILDINGS CONCRETE SPECIALISTS 25 years of experience in the concrete industry. We provide services all over New Zealand. Residential Commercial Driveways Repairs Parking Foundations Civil Works Concrete Grind Polish
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