Business North September 2026

12 | Outstanding service brings top award Optiplumb has also continued to invest in technology and systems to improve efficiency. T T from page 10 REGIONAL Optiplumb “It is about communication, being polite, understanding presentation, and even personal hygiene. Those things matter when you are working in people’s homes.” “We want people to appreciate the value we bring and understand what goes into doing the job properly.” That approach has helped Optiplumb develop strong customer relationships and earn numerous five star reviews, while the company has grown rapidly since being established in 2021. Duncan quickly expanded the team after launching as a one-man business, growing first through lockdown challenges and then into a larger operation supported by skilled tradespeople and dedicated support staff. Today, Optiplumb employs 17 people across plumbing, gasfitting, drainlaying, operations, estimating, project management, and administration, servicing customers throughout the Waikato. A major focus for Duncan has been investing in people and creating a stronger pathway for future tradespeople. With more than 20 apprentices trained throughout his career, he believes the role of a modern trades company extends beyond technical skills. “Training is not just about teaching someone how to plumb,” he says. “It is about communication, being polite, understanding presentation, and even personal hygiene. Those things matter when you are working in people’s homes.” Building a positive workplace culture has also been central to Optiplumb’s success. Duncan says construction can be a challenging industry, making it important to create an environment where people feel supported and valued. Optiplumb has also continued to invest in technology and systems to improve efficiency, while maintaining the personal service that helped establish the company’s reputation. Alongside running his own business, Duncan is vice president of Master Plumbers Waikato, where he advocates for stronger support, collaboration, and standards across the sector. “Master Plumbers does a great job of advocating for the industry, and the more we can work together, the better everyone becomes.” While the construction market remains unpredictable, Duncan says Optiplumb is continuing to see steady demand and is focused on sustainable growth. The Master Plumber of the Year award represents a major achievement for the company, but Duncan says the goal remains simple: building a great team that delivers outstanding service while creating opportunities for its people. “We want to keep improving, look after our customers, and make sure our staff can look after their families too,” he says. “That is what success looks like for us.” Giving old spaces new life. Experienced, dependable home renovations tailored for families and homeowners in the Waikato. GET IN TOUCH mcleanrenovations.co.nz kellie@mcleanrenovations.co.nz 0274 285 192

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