40 | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Allan Contracting T T Karen Phelps Family firm ‘part of the community’ Allan Contracting has become a cornerstone of local infrastructure development, with a reputation built on reliability, quality and deeprooted community ties. In the heart of Invercargill, a family-run business has been quietly shaping the landscape of Southland’s kerbing and concrete footpaths for half a century. Allan Contracting has become a cornerstone of local infrastructure development, with a reputation built on reliability, quality and deep-rooted community ties. The company’s story began when John Hawkes, a builder by trade, purchased the already-established Allan Contracting and decided to keep the same company name. “My father used to build in the winter and do kerbing and guttering in the summer. It was originally a way to keep his business running year-round,” says John’s son, Karl. Karl joined the family business at 18, fresh out of school, and took over the reins about 15 years ago. Under his leadership, Allan Contracting has continued to thrive, maintaining its position as the only company in Southland with a specialised kerbing machine. “We’re not just a business; we’re a part of the community,” explains Karl. “Our work is visible all around Southland, reaching up to South Otago and Dunedin. It’s great to drive around and see the work we’ve done and the positive impact this has on the community.” The company’s longevity is reflected in its staff, with Karl’s uncle, Phillip, having been with the company for around 40 years. Phillip’s son, Keith, is also part of the team, boasting over 25 years of experience. This generational involvement underscores the family-oriented nature of the business. “Family business means reliability,” Karl says proudly. “We can get the job done for our clients when we say we will. There’s a lot of loyalty and experience in our team.” Allan Contracting’s client list reads like a who’s who of Southland infrastructure, including SouthRoads, Fulton Hogan, Jim Bates Contracting, Southland Farm Services and Te Anau Earthworks. Through these clients they work for jobs for the Southland District Council and Invercargill City Council amongst others. The company’s portfolio is impressive and diverse. Karl recounts one of the notable projects over the years: “We did the roundabout at Edendale where the Fonterra plant is. The State Highway was realigned, and there was a new entrance into the dairy factory and a passing lane. We did the kerbing for the project.” Other significant works include subdivisions in Te Anau, Northwood Avenue in Invercargill, and an extensive 14-stage development of the Highland Park subdivision in Mosgiel over a ten-year period. Currently Allan Contracting is wrapping up work on the industrial stage of the Luxmore subdivision in Te Anau, with plans to start the residential stage in the New Year. It is also involved in the on-going construction of the new Hawthorndale Care Village in Invercargill, a project that will extend into next year. Karl says the nature of the work Allan Contracting does is very specialised: “It’s not something just anyone can do. It’s not a trade, but it takes many years of experience to learn to do to a high standard. It takes a couple of years to train someone properly.” This commitment to quality and efficiency has been key to the company’s enduring success. “We are good at what we do – efficient and do a high-quality job. We take real pride in our work and have a good reputation. There is enough work locally to keep us busy.” READY MIX CONCRETE - GRAVEL WINTON HEAD OFFICE P.O. BOX 34, Winton Phone: (03) 236 6580 e: office@mcgregorconcreteltd.co.nz www.mcgregorconcreteltd.co.nz Te Anau: (03) 249 7051 Lumsden: (03) 236 6580 Talk to us today, the feature profile experts Phone: 03 983 5500 waterfordpress.co.nz PROFILE YOUR PROJECT...
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