| 51 “Trust has always been at the core of how Dad ran this business, and it still is. Being Canterbury Trusted helps show clients we take that seriously.” T T Kelly Deeks Integrity a key factor for family firm Christchurch commercial roofing firm, Newfield Roofing, is marking its 40th year with a milestone achievement, becoming the first roofing company to earn the new Canterbury Trusted accreditation. Newfield Roofing CONTRACTING Christchurch commercial roofing firm, Newfield Roofing, is marking its 40th year with a milestone achievement, becoming the first roofing company to earn the new Canterbury Trusted accreditation. For managing director Alex Newfield, the recognition reinforces the values the family business has been built on since his father Barry founded it in 1985, and reflects the consistency clients have come to rely on over four decades. Alex took over two years ago, but says roofing has been part of his life for as long as he can remember. Returning home from Australia 16 years ago, Alex rejoined the family business just before the Canterbury earthquakes. He says the construction market has generally remained strong ever since, supported by steady commercial demand and long-term local relationships. “Being part of the rebuild was tough, but something I’m proud of,” Alex says. “As a proud Cantabrian, helping put our city back together meant a lot.” The company’s most significant recent project has been its work on the new Canterbury stadium, contributing more than a year of roofing and cladding installation across internal areas, including food and beverage outlets. The project holds special meaning for a business with long-standing ties to Canterbury rugby and generations of family supporters. Newfield Roofing remains a family operation, with Barry and his wife still active in the business. Barry continues to be a key technical resource, and Alex says one of the most important lessons he learned from his father has been how to treat people and maintain integrity in a close-knit industry. The team has grown to 25, the largest in its history, and the third generation has stepped in, with Alex’s sons Liam and Brody learning the ropes over the school holidays. Alex says the company’s strength lies in all aspects of commercial roofing, contributing to design, completing new installs on time and on budget, and providing ongoing maintenance services . Ongoing work includes major commercial and public assets for long-term clients such as Christchurch City Council, with upcoming work on Wolfbrook Arena, a roof Barry first installed in 1998, with Alex working alongside him in the school holidays as a 16-year-old, just as his own sons are doing today. Skill shortages remain a challenge, but Alex says growth in apprenticeships is making a difference. Newfield Roofing currently has three apprentices and is seeing more school leavers entering the trade with enthusiasm. Reaching 40 years, Alex says it feels timely to reflect on the company’s legacy, particularly as it becomes one of the region’s first Canterbury Trusted businesses. The accreditation, awarded by Business Canterbury, recognises integrity, reliable delivery, financial strength, and strong people-focused values. “Trust has always been at the core of how Dad ran this business, and it still is. Being Canterbury Trusted helps show clients we take that seriously,” Alex says. He believes the certification sets Newfield Roofing apart in a competitive market and reinforces the company’s commitment to doing things the right way – a commitment he intends to carry forward into the next generation. South Island 0800 NETS4U (638 748) • WWW.SAFETYNETSNZ.CO.NZ • NZ’s only independently tested system • Residential & commercial solutions • Reliable, on-time service • Cost effective Proud to support Newfield Roofing Ltd Proudly supporting Newfield Roofing Ltd
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=