40 years of innovation With its roots going back over forty years, Chemtest 2022 has evolved as a leader in the design, installation and maintenance of high-quality control systems for commercial and research greenhouses throughout New Zealand and beyond. Originally known as Chemtest Laboratories with a focus on water purification systems including UV and filtration equipment, over time the business expanded into horticulture installing irrigation systems into greenhouses, and making control and test equipment. A significant leap occurred in 2011 when a client with almost 20 hectares of greenhouse engaged Chemtest to maintain its controller equipment. That initiated discussions with Ridder, a Dutch company specialising in electromechanical systems, climate technology and software designed to optimise all cultivation and management processes within a horticultural business. Chemtest became the sole New Zealand distributor for Ridder control systems including UV and fertiliser dosing systems, installing and supporting that equipment throughout New Zealand. The company rebranded to Chemtest 2022 when Stephen and Katherine Thompson were offered the opportunity to buy it as part of the previous owners’ succession plan. Having worked for Chemtest for over 30 years, starting as a technician and moving into management, Stephen not only knew the business and industry, but was deeply passionate about it and was the perfect choice to take the business forward. “I love the company so much and we’re always learning. We like to go in and help people out, fix things for people and know they are happy. We all get satisfaction knowing that we’re making a significant contribution to New Zealand’s horticultural industry.” Based in East Tamaki and working throughout New Zealand, the Chemtest team installs and maintains systems for Council nurseries, research facilities, and commercial growers. There is also the occasional private residential nursery. Stephen says there is no job too big nor too small. “A client wanting to develop a greenhouse growing operation will contact us for support, we discuss their requirements, develop and design a system to suit their requirements, procure the necessary equipment, install, commission and maintain the system. Installation of new systems forms the largest part of our work, but we pride ourselves on being there for any client who needs us for any maintenance work. We understand how important it is for our clients to maintain continuity of operations.” When Future Farm commenced its operations in 2019 and expanded its greenhouse operations, Chemtest was engaged to design a new Ridder HortiMaX system, as well as modernise the existing greenhouse control systems. Stephen looks back over the company’s long journey, and particularly the time that he and Katherine have been at the helm, and says its success has always been about being there for the clients, offering a can-do attitude, being passionate about the horticulture industry and going the extra mile. “Being family owned and operated also makes a difference. We really care about our clients throughout their journey and will always be there for them, whether it’s a new project or maintenance of an existing system.” From horticultural supplies to infrastructure servicing, Chemtest does it all. 09 274 5336 58 Sir William Avenue, East Tamaki, Auckland 2022 LTD
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