28 | Southland: Southern Stone & Timber T T Bernadette Cooney Pebble exporter grows global market The company is one of the largest exporters of pebbles from its Awarua Bay quarry near Invercargill. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Southern Stone & Timber Ltd may not be a household name, but this Awarua Bay business in Southland plays a crucial role in boosting the nation’s export figures. Specialising in supplying export pebbles to international and domestic manufacturing markets, the company serves sectors such as the resin market, swimming pool construction, landscaping, and aquariums. Their dedication and quality products contribute significantly to these industries, ensuring a continuous supply of high-quality decorative aggregates. Founded in 2008 by John and Kim Drain, in partnership with an American investor, Laurence Turley. Southern Stone & Timber has grown exponentially. Located in Awarua Bay, just 20 minutes southeast of Invercargill, the company operates a greystone quarry that quickly established itself as one of the largest exporters of pebbles. Their specialisation in swimming pool and resin pebbles has helped them carve out a significant niche in global markets. “We export about 40 percent into all ports throughout Australia, 40 percent to the United States and 20 percent to Portugal,” says John. Southern Stone & Timber’s primary products, Awarua White and Southern White pebbles, are highly sought after for their natural beauty and unique turquoise colouring when submerged in water. These pebbles are not only used in swimming pools but also in the production of countertops and floors for the building products sector. Additionally, they are ideal for pathways, driveways, and other hardscapes, making them a favourite among landscaping companies throughout New Zealand. Retail consumers can also find these products in gardening and hardware chains such as Bunnings and Mitre 10. Southern Stone & Timber is committed to sustainability. The company has implemented a planting regeneration program across their quarry premises, which was previously a sheep and dairy farm. Their quarry, located on an ancient glacial riverbed, is backfilled after extraction to ensure environmental responsibility. In 2010, the company expanded their plant, adding a gas-powered rotary kiln, extra screening plant, and a bagging plant to their operations. According to John, “Our pebble product is completely natural. We use no chemicals in processing. The stones are washed, dried in the kiln, screened, and then bagged.” This natural approach ensures the purity and quality of their products. Southern Stone & Timber continues to grow their global market presence. John and Kim are currently on a business trip to France and the UK, exploring new opportunities. “We’re trying to diversify and reach new markets,” says Kim. Their aim is to diversify product uses, reducing reliance on the swimming pool market and expanding into the filtration market with their sands. The company is also striving to enter the UK resin market and exploring possibilities in Canada. Southern Stone & Timber Ltd exemplify the benefits of dedication, quality, and sustainability. Their significant contributions to various markets highlight their importance to the industry and their ongoing efforts to diversify and expand, promise continued growth and success. Proud to be associated with Southern Stone and Timber 027 918 1451 antony@burrowestransport.co.nz Bond Street, Invercargill Peter: 027 208 4854 Ross: 027 433 6361 Jimmy: 027 435 0362 Email: southern.aggregates@hwr.co.nz Greenhills Quarry | Ph 0272 033479 Oreti Beach | Ph 0274 344006 Southern Aggregates Ltd We operate a quarry at Greenhills, near Bluff & a sand & aggregate plant at Oreti Beach producing a range of products from construction gravels to rail ballast, concrete aggregates & sands. Our mobile crushing & screening operations are available to work on your farm throughout Otago & Southland Pleased to be working alongside Southern Stone & Timber Ltd Contact us at 0274 345643 Phone: 03 983 5500 waterfordpress.co.nz Your Business, Your Industry, Your News. DO OUR READERS KNOW YOU EXIST?
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