12 | Culham Engineering � Kelly Deeks Carbon reduction in steel production Culham has set a confident course towards large-scale, high-impact projects spanning multiple engineering disciplines, from structural steel and piping to geothermal systems, and shipbuilding. “We’re not just structural steel or piping. Our strategy is about capability across the full spectrum of engineering. We want to do it all, and we want to do it at scale.” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Culham Engineering is shifting into high gear as it gathers traction on some of New Zealand’s most complex and high-impact engineering projects. With momentum building across major industrial builds, and a robust pipeline of future opportunities, the Whangārei-based company is demonstrating the resilience, capability, and innovation needed to shape a sustainable future, quite literally in steel. Currently leading the installation of New Zealand Steel’s new, $300 million electric arc furnace (EAF) at Glenbrook, Culham is right at the heart of the country’s most ambitious decarbonisation project to date. CEO David Stephenson says the project is a landmark not only for the company, but for the nation’s environmental goals. “We’re proud to be part of something that’s changing how steel is made in New Zealand,” he says. The EAF project, a public-private partnership between New Zealand Steel and the Government under the GIDI fund, is tracking well. Culham has about 100 people on-site, including a trusted network of long-term subcontractors. “It’s a complex and significant project,” David says. “We’re starting to really ramp up and it’s progressing well.” Culham Engineering entered a dynamic new chapter in 2021, when Rob Kirwan and his business partner took over full ownership from the founding Culham family. Rob, who began with Culham as an apprentice in 1980 and rose to managing director, exemplifies the company’s strong people-focused culture. Under this new ownership, Culham has set a confident course towards large-scale, high-impact projects spanning multiple engineering disciplines, from structural steel and piping to geothermal systems, and shipbuilding. In 2024, Culham successfully launched the Kaipara Karrier VII, a 57-metre-long, 16m-wide self-propelled dredge for Mt Rex Shipping. The event, witnessed by over 270 stakeholders, including Whangārei’s mayor and industry partners, marked a national first as the vessel was launched using the airbag system, pioneering the technique for vessels of this size in New Zealand. “It was an outstanding showcase of Northland capability and a milestone for our team,” David says. With a continued presence in Central North Island, including workshops in Kawerau and Tokoroa supporting Oji Fibre Solutions, Culham remains focused on scaling its nationwide capacity. “We’re not just structural steel or piping. Our strategy is about capability across the full spectrum of engineering. We want to do it all, and we want to do it at scale.” In a tough market, the company is doubling down on value-added services, efficiency, and strategic growth. “We’re looking closely at how we can streamline our operations and continue adding value for our clients,” David says. “And we know that starts with having the best people.” He says good people are attracted to challenges and opportunities, which Culham continues to offer. “We’ve grown because our owners want to grow the business. We’re ready for the next big opportunity.” • STEEL • STAINLESS • ENGINEERING STEELS • PLATE PROCESSING • COIL PROCESSING • ALUMINIUM - SHEET & EXTRUSION AVAILABLE VULCAN IS PROUD TO SUPPORT CULHAM ENGINEERING WHANGAREI WWW.VULCAN.CO Aluminium Sales 09 4387380 Steel Sales 09 4388526
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