| 73 T T Kelly Deeks Importing bitumen the right move Colas New Zealand operates its own manufacturing facility at Wiri, with extensive stockholding and an on-site laboratory that performs constant testing. CONTRACTING Colas New Zealand Colas New Zealand is setting the benchmark for asphalt production and paving, combining global resources with a hands-on, locally focused approach to deliver quality infrastructure for Kiwi communities. Since the closure of Marsden Point Refinery two and a half years ago, New Zealand’s bitumen supply chain has been challenged. For Colas, however, the solution was clear: leverage its parent company’s global strength to independently import bitumen and maintain full control over quality and logistics. “After Marsden Point shut down, everyone had to figure out how to secure bitumen,” says Colas New Zealand managing director Barry Blunt. “We had two options: buy from our competitors or import our own. The Colas Group is the largest consumer of bitumen worldwide and possesses considerable supply and logistic capability. We chose to bring in bitumen directly and manage our supply chain end-to-end.” Bitumen, a by-product of oil refining, must meet rigorous national specifications. Colas’ import process involves obtaining approval from Waka Kotahi NZTA for each ource, including extensive testing and fiveyear certification. “There’s no shortcut in this industry,” Barry says. “We handle the seaside logistics ourselves, and we partner with Pyramid Trucking for land-based logistics. Like us, they’re straightforward, reliable Kiwis who deliver what they promise.” Quality assurance underpins every step of Colas’ operations. The company operates its own manufacturing facility at Wiri, with extensive stockholding and an on-site laboratory that performs constant testing. “Anyone can make and lay asphalt, but doing it right first time takes experience and discipline,” Barry says. “Our lab is integral to controlling the quality of the mix we send to our crews.” With 60 staff nationwide, and three paving crews covering Greater Auckland and beyond, Colas prides itself on self-reliance. All testing, production, and paving are done in-house, ensuring consistent standards and flexibility to respond to client needs. “We’re very clear about our commitment: if we say we’ll do a job, we’ll do it. And if we make a mistake, we fix it,” Barry says. “That’s why we’ve grown over the past three years, even through Covid and a recession. Our people are at the core of our success. We’ve retained our crews and kept them busy with a steady workflow and a family environment.” Barry, who is a civil engineer, trained at Durban Institute of Technology. He joined Colas South Africa in 2003 before moving to New Zealand in 2018. After a senior role at Higgins on the Hamilton Expressway Project, he returned to Colas in 2021, and now leads the business through a phase of strong growth and investment. As part of the global Colas Group, which is active in 50 countries and employs 64,000 people, the New Zealand operation benefits from cutting-edge research and development in sustainable infrastructure. Worldwide, Colas undertakes more than 50,000 projects annually, and is renowned for pioneering solutions in mobility. “Transport infrastructure is more than just getting from A to B. It’s about connecting communities and enabling economic activity,” Barry says. “We’re proud to bring that philosophy to New Zealand and deliver a product that sta nds up to our local conditions.” With its vertically integrated approach and global expertise, Colas is building more than roads, it’s building confidence in the quality and resilience of New Zealand’s transport network. “Transport infrastructure is more than just getting from A to B. It’s about connecting communities and enabling economic activity.” Proud to partner with Colas NZ 09 277 7885 or 021 808 778 www.pyramidtrucking.co.nz
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