Business North October 2025

90 | Richmann Engineering ProConsult Engineers & Architects ENGINEERING A trusted name in New Zealand’s food-processing industry since 1980, Richmann Engineering continues to lead the way in machinery servicing, manufacturing, and innovation under the hands-on leadership of owner/operator Scott O’Brien. With more than four decades of industry experience, Richmann Engineering has built a solid reputation for delivering high-quality engineering solutions and maintenance support to butchers, bakers, processors, and caterers nationwide. Based in Auckland, the business is now doubling down on its commitment to excellent customer service and industry adaptability in what remains a challenging economic climate. “We understand how tough things are out there right now,” Scott says. “While others are putting their prices up, we’re looking at reducing our hourly rates to continue supporting our loyal customers. It’s our way of helping keep local businesses running.” While machinery servicing and maintenance remain the company’s primary focus, Richmann Engineering also offers a comprehensive suite of services, including machinery rebuilds, custom fabrication, equipment installation, spare parts supply, preventative maintenance schedules, second-hand machinery sales, and even full machinery relocations. When registered architect and business coach Glenn McHardie purchased ProConsult Engineers & Architects earlier this year, he knew some in the industry would wonder why an architect would buy a structural engineering firm. For Glenn, the answer was simple. “I knew exactly what I was doing. With more than 30 years in the construction industry, 20 years as a business owner, and experience coaching professional practices across Australasia, I saw an opportunity to strengthen a respected engineering consultancy, without losing what made it great in the first place.” Knowing the importance of continuity, a key part of the transition to new ownership was that ProConsult’s founder, Stewart Hobbs, remained involved as a consultant, ensuring clients would continue to benefit from his trusted expertise and long-standing relationships. Proof, if they need it, that ProConsult remains committed to designing dependable structures and buildings, with a personal, timely, and trusted approach, so as to enhance the lives and businesses of its clients. Based in Remuera, it’s a smaller, more nimble practice, which prides itself on being highly approachable. In the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle, and ongoing problems with flooding and sodden land, they focus on the residential buildings and structures of Auckland’s inner suburbs, including what might be relatively Supporting food producers Richmann Engineering has built a solid reputation for delivering high-quality engineering solutions and maintenance support. T T Kelly Deeks Helping to optimise assets T T Virginia Wright The workshop’s qualified team of engineers, ticketed welders, fitter-turners, and fabricators is equipped to handle everything from minor repairs to complex rebuilds and custom builds. “We specialise in vacuum packing and food machinery – slicers, dicers, bandsaws, fillers – you name it,” Scott says. “We also import and supply a range of tested and reliable food-processing machinery, from entry-level to premium models, depending on what our customers need.” Through its partnership with Nelson-based Oakham Developments, Richmann Engineering is also at the forefront of manufacturing modified atmosphere packaging machines that are exported globally. As the New Zealand service agent for leading international brands, including Promarks, Hong Teng, and Swallow Flying, Richmann offers both supply and after-sales support with an unmatched level of local expertise. Scott says the company is looking to expand its reach again into servicing local butchers and cafés, in addition to its ongoing work with major food processors. “We’ve always been proud to work with the big players in the food industry, but we also love getting in and helping out the small operators, who are the backbone of our communities.” minor to some, but just as important to the client – projects such as retaining walls, driveways and drainage systems. “We’re here to fix problems as well as add value to your property,” says Glenn. “That value is both in how you enjoy it and in its long-term capital growth, and we want the process to be as stress-free as possible.” ProConsult prides itself on giving clients a single, dedicated point of contact, someone who translates complex technical detail into clear, practical advice. This approach works just as well for their long-term corporate clients, such as Westpac and Air New Zealand, as it does for first-time investors buying their first commercial property. “We work with everyone from major corporates to mum and dad investors,” Glenn explains. “Whether it’s an aircraft hangar, a bank branch, or a small retail space, the principle is the same: optimise the asset.” Glenn’s years of coaching architects is helping shape Proconsult’s client-first ethos. He knows that technical brilliance isn’t enough. True success comes when clients feel understood, informed, and supported, he explains. “Many professionals have exceptional technical skills, but I help my team develop the emotional intelligence to truly stand in the client’s shoes, especially when it comes to budgets and decisions. It’s about clear, jargon-free communication, so clients aren’t just nodding along, they really get it.” Neville Bull Proudly Supporting Richmann Engineering T: 09 299 8912 M: 027 255 1375 E: bullengineering@xtra.co.nz A: 122 Settlement Rd, Papakura Auckland Beautiful Cantilever Outdoor Covers Loved by New Zealanders Uniport covers are freestanding and architecturally stunning, they maximise use of your outdoor space all year round. 027 627 2127 www.uniport.co.nz mark@uniport.co.nz Call Mark to discuss today Cuts 80% of heat out With over 35 years of industry experience, we have all of your surveying needs covered. +64 21 969 249 brucew@bnwalkersurveying.co.nz www.bnwalkersurveying.co.nz Engineering & Civil Construction Underground Service Detection &Mapping Laser Scanning | Open Cast Mining Surveying Proudly Supporting ProConsult Engineers

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=