102 | BUILDING Ajax Building Contractors T T Kelly Deeks Builders rejoicing in Gore’s growth While residential construction is a key focus, Ajax continues to deliver a wide range of commercial and industrial projects. Gore-based Ajax Building Contractors is positioning itself at the forefront of Southland’s construction sector and leveraging its deep roots in the community and a strong track record in both residential and commercial building to expand into the burgeoning multi-unit housing market. Director Tom Hewitson says the company, which has served Gore, Invercargill, and the wider region for nearly 80 years, is now embracing new opportunities created by changes to the district plan and growing demand for higher-density housing. “We’re currently pricing a 16-unit Kāinga Ora project in East Gore that would see eight units prefabricated in Christchurch and eight built on site,” he says. “This is the kind of multi-unit work we’re moving into.” As part of that strategy, Ajax has purchased its own land in Gore and plans to build nine two-storey townhouses on a site combining a former petrol station and neighbouring house. The project is currently progressing through the resource consent process. “It’s a really exciting time for Gore,” Tom says. “With the district plan change in July opening the door for more medium-density housing, we’re seeing a lot of movement in the residential space. “Consents are running at about $5.5 million a month, which is huge for a town this size, and something we can be very proud of.” Tom notes Gore’s appeal as a retirement destination and as a central hub for the agricultural sector is driving growth. “There’s a lot of industry coming into Gore, and it’s perfectly placed. You’re only 45 minutes from Invercargill, but you’re also closer to Northern Southland, so it’s an ideal base for businesses and families alike.” While residential construction is a key focus, Ajax continues to deliver a wide range of commercial and industrial projects. The company has completed a 3.5-megawatt transformer station, major upgrades for the Mataura Meat Processing Plant, and a new office block for Meridian Energy at the White Hill Wind Farm. Regular maintenance contracts with longterm clients, including Alliance Group, Fonterra, and Silver Fern Farms, are a testament to Ajax’s reliability and expertise. “Having 28 full-time staff gives us the capability to tackle a variety of projects and respond quickly,” Tom says. “We specialise in high-specification homes, commercial builds, social housing, and everything in between. “Whether it’s a large-scale project or a kitchen renovation, we bring the same attention to detail, and a team of scale that can get through these projects quickly.” Established in 1984 under the Ajax name, and with history stretching back decades earlier, the business has remained a trusted local contractor. Since 2018, directors Shane Stevenson and Tom have built on that legacy, combining modern construction methods with a strong community focus. From the company’s long-standing premises in Gore, Ajax operates a well-equipped plant yard and a fleet of modern machinery to support its projects. The business also gives back to its community through sponsorship of local rugby teams, schools and events, including Gore’s popular food festival and the Gore Main School Colour Run. “Our team lives and works here. We’re proud to be part of Gore’s growth and to deliver building solutions that make a difference,” Tom says. PROUDLY SUPPORTING AJAX BUILDING CONTRACTORS SOUTHLAND Talk to us today, the feature profile experts Phone: 03 983 5500 waterfordpress.co.nz PROFILE YOUR PROJECT...
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