14 | Waghorn Builders T T Kelly Deeks Culture drives thriving business The business has grown into a multi-division operation delivering projects across the South Island, from residential repairs, renovations, reclads, and new builds to commercial projects, hotel conversions, asbestos removal, foundations, property development, and project management services. “Keeping people together, happy, and productive is one of the biggest efficiencies in business.” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Waghorn Builders is marking 15 years in business with a clear message that has helped drive its growth from humble beginnings to one of Canterbury’s established construction names: culture is everything. Founded by brothers Jake and Luke Waghorn, the business has grown into a multi-division operation delivering projects across the South Island, from residential repairs, renovations, reclads, and new builds to commercial projects, hotel conversions, asbestos removal, foundations, property development, and project management services. The milestone comes at a challenging time for the wider construction sector, with rising costs and intense competition. But the brothers say the company entered the slowdown after two of its strongest years. “It has been tough for everyone,” Luke says. “There are a huge number of builders chasing the same jobs, while suppliers keep lifting prices, fuel goes up, and costs keep moving. We still want to provide a strong service and win the work, so where we can, we have had to absorb those costs.” Rather than retreat, Waghorn Builders has focused on productivity, planning, and systems. “We have been making sure we have the right crews on the right jobs, thinking ahead, planning better, and getting our systems right so we can all be more productive,” Jake says. The brothers say early contractor involvement is another area where clients can improve efficiencies and save money. “If people get us involved early, we can value engineer a project and provide alternatives that still look great but cost less and are easier to build,” Jake says. Maintaining morale has also been critical, with regular team barbecues and a focus on connection across crews. “We have always been big on culture. When things get busy, your focus can drift toward workflow, cashflow, and keeping everything moving,” Luke says. “Keeping people together, happy, and productive is one of the biggest efficiencies in business. We have got a lot of guys who treat the place like their own. That is a huge reason why we are still here today.” That loyalty is reflected in staff retention, with about 35 percent of the team having been with the company for more than 10 years. King, Bryce Casey, Zach Guilford, and Lance Burdett. “Looking back, one of the most rewarding things we have achieved has been helping people and raising awareness around mental health,” Jake says. Despite the company’s growth, the brothers have never forgotten where they started. “Our father was a solo dad on an invalid’s benefit. We know what tough times look like,” Luke says. “To go from living out of clothing bins and lost property to now employing a large team means a lot.” As Waghorn Builders celebrates 15 years, the focus remains firmly on the future. “We want to make sure we are still here in Canterbury for another 15 years,” Jake says. “We have always known we are only as good as the people we surround ourselves with,” Luke says. “A big thank you goes to our staff, subcontractors, suppliers, clients, and of course our wives, Becks and Ems.” Waghorn Builders has also placed a growing focus on mental health and wellbeing. The biennial Waghorn Builders Resilience Breakfast is a big part of this with past speakers including Sir John Kirwan, Mike 03 366 7686 admin@completepowersolutions.co.nz www.completepowersolutions.co.nz At CPS, our mission is to provide unparalleled electrical services to both residential and commercial clients. We strive to deliver exceptional quality services that are reliable, safe, and efficient. We love coffee! Think CPS for sales, service & repairs. Commercial or domestic. Automatic or manual - we can take care of it all. For all things Coffee, come see us at 60 Montreal St. Scheduled Maintenance • Coffee Machines • EV Chargers Residential • Commercial • Property Management Office & Shop Fit Outs • New Homes & Architectural Builds
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=