68 | The power of the written word. New Zealand Business News, delivered to you. CONTRACTING Peter Owen Plumbing • New Homes • Alterations • Maintenance • Light Commercial • All Work Guaranteed! 07 847 9699 | 027 448 9511 | brook@poplumbing.co.nz ETER OWEN & GASFITTERS PLUMBING Plumber confident his business will thrive Based in Hamilton, Peter Owen Plumbing works throughout the greater Waikato, including Cambridge, Morrinsville, and Raglan. T T Kelly Deeks “We’ve got great clients, and that’s what gets us started off every New Year. That’s the big thing for us.” Peter Owen Plumbing is approaching 2027 with a level of confidence that reflects a strong start to this year and a healthy pipeline of work across Hamilton and the greater Waikato. Director, Brook Owen, says the business had one of its strongest starts to the year financially, after a difficult period through much of 2025. “Normally it’s a bit quiet in January, but we really had a good start this year,” Brook says. That was helped by longstanding clients, many of whom Peter Owen Plumbing has worked with for more than a decade, and some for 20 years. Brook bought the plumbing business from his father, Peter, more than 10 years ago, continuing a company that will mark its 50th anniversary in 2030. That history has built a strong level of trust with local builders, who make up the company’s client base and account for about 99.9% of its work. Projects range from first homes and high-density developments to duplexes and multimillion-dollar bespoke homes. The company also undertakes light commercial work for its builder clients, including plumbing and gas services for supermarkets and childcare centres – areas where it has built considerable experience over the years. Based in Hamilton, Peter Owen Plumbing works throughout the greater Waikato, including Cambridge, Morrinsville, and Raglan. Brook says Hamilton is proving to be one of the more resilient centres around the country, with continued development supporting demand for construction services. “Business is great. It is very positive out there, especially in Hamilton,” he says. The company’s three main building contractor clients are also reporting positive sales, giving Brook confidence for the months ahead. That confidence is underpinned by a team he describes as one of the business’s greatest strengths. Three employees have been with the company for more than 10 years, contributing to a strong team spirit, with established systems designed to keep projects moving efficiently. Training the next generation of plumbers is another important part of the operation. Brook estimates he has put 15 to 20 apprentices through their training during his time running the business. It is a significant investment, with the cost of training an apprentice over three to four years potentially exceeding $40,000, but Brook believes it is essential given the longstanding shortage of skilled plumbers. “I would love to have more staff, but it’s just not that simple,” he says. He would like to see greater practical support for trades training, particularly following changes to tertiary education since Covid. Plumbing is a hands-on profession, and Brook says apprentices benefit from face-to-face instruction and practical experience, rather than online classes. Despite the challenges facing the wider construction industry, he remains focused on providing the quality workmanship and reliable service that have built Peter Owen Plumbing’s reputation. With strong relationships, an experienced team, and positive building activity across Hamilton, Brook sees plenty of reason to remain optimistic. “We’ve got great clients, and that’s what gets us started off every New Year. That’s the big thing for us.”
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