70 | nzdairy RURAL SERVICES » Illawarra Haulage Illawarra grown significantly since 2022 Richard Loader Illawarra Haulage has grown significantly since it was purchased by Daniel Phillips from his parents Peter and Vicki in 2022 with the addition of new vehicles and its first employed driver marking key milestones in the company’s development. The business began modestly in the 1990s when the Phillips family bought their first truck to transport metal and stock for their own farm. “What started as a practical solution for our farm gradually evolved into a stand-alone transport business serving local clients,” explains Daniel. Having grown up around the family operation, Daniel worked in the business during his school years before training as a diesel mechanic. After spending several years in the mechanical industry, he returned to the family business in 2021. “Dad encouraged me to get outside experience before returning.” Since taking ownership Daniel has invested heavily in expanding the fleet to meet growing demand. The most significant addition came last year with the purchase of a brand new Fuso Shogun 510 drop-side tipper, replacing one of the older vehicles. Based primarily around Morrinsville, Daniel says the expansion has been driven by consistent demand for the company’s core services, which include transporting fertiliser, aggregate and baleage throughout the Waikato region. The business also operates a skid steer to clean out calf sheds for local farmers around Morrinsville. The haulage operation maintains strong relationships with local agricultural contractors including a partnership with Illawarra Contracting, the baling business run by Daniel’s brother Nathan. Illawarra Contracting specialises in round baling, small square bales, and undersowing. “I cart the bales for Nathan, and if he has digger work, I also cart metal for him. We work together to keep both businesses busy.” During maize season Daniel also subcontracts services to a maize contractor in Te Awamutu, diversifying the business’s client base beyond its core Waikato operations. However the focus remains firmly on local work, reflecting Daniel’s business philosophy. “I’m a big fan of supporting local,” says Daniel. “I like to use local businesses myself and hopefully farmers like to support local as well to keep that community support going.” The family’s farming roots run deep. Daniel and Nathan will be the fifth generation on the original dry stock farm on Scott Road in Morrinsville. Five years ago, dad Peter expanded the family’s holdings by acquiring a dairy farm, following the sale of a farm he developed in Taumarunui. Daniel says this strong farming background gives him a great understanding of his haulage clients’ needs. Daniel says his company’s expansion comes at a time when agricultural transport demands are evolving, with farmers often preferring to outsource logistics to focus on core farming The business began modestly in the 1990s when the Phillips family bought their first truck to transport metal and stock for their own farm. Since taking ownership Daniel has invested heavily in expanding the fleet to meet growing demand. • Round Baling • Hay & Silage Sales • Under Sowing • 13 Ton Digger NATHAN PHILLIPS - 027 666 6323 Proudly supporting Illawarra Haulage • Truck & Trailer Cartage • Bale Cartage • Skid Steer Hire • Calf Shed Cleaning activities. Illawarra Haulage has positioned itself to meet this demand through investment and reliable service delivery. Daniel remains focused on continued growth and maintaining the personal service that has built the business’s reputation. “Illawarra Haulage’s combination of modern equipment, experienced operation and strong local relationships provides a solid foundation for future expansion.”
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