There are not many companies in the New Zealand construction industry today that can boast a legacy of over 70 years of successful business.

With the myriad of challenges that the last couple of decades have brought, longevity in this industry is less common than it used to be, but those companies that have succeed and prosper share some similar traits – dedication to quality, commitment to customer service and delivering outstanding results.

These are attributes that construction company Haydn & Rollett and electrical services company Grammar Electrical both share. However, while they may share a common city of origin, their histories have long run separately – that is, until that changed just five years ago…

‍

A stable and respected company

Founded on Auckland’s North Shore in 1946 by two men named George – George Haydn and George Rollett – the company known as Haydn & Rollett Construction began business in post-WWII New Zealand building houses, and within a decade had added factories and retail stores to their folio.

Over the next five decades, the company grew steadily, expanding into larger commercial and industrial construction projects, yet always maintaining a commitment to quality and precision that has earned them a reputation as “one of the most stable and respected construction companies in Auckland.”

Today, the company’s service offerings have evolved beyond simple construction to also include property development, building design, property services and joinery, with a focus on small to medium-sized projects in the commercial and industrial sector.

‍

‍

Electrical services required for racecourse renovation

As a company that was also founded in post-war Auckland, it might seem strange that Grammar Electrical had operated in the same city as Haydn & Rollett and yet never crossed paths with the construction company. It would take until 2018 before the two companies engaged for the first time.

General Manager of Property Services for Haydn & Rollett, Craig McGuigan, says they approached Grammar Electrical five year ago to manage the electrical installations required for the $6m upgrade of the function venue and stables at the Ellerslie Racecourse.

“This was a significant project for us, which would involve turning the historic 1857 racecourse into a modern, world-class venue,” says McGuigan.

“Through the development process we struck up a relationship with Grammar Electrical and brought them on board to handle the extensive electrics required for the racecourse renovation. They did the job beautifully and helped us deliver a terrific result.”

‍

‍

Like-minded companies, delivering results

Since the Ellerslie Racecourse renovation, McGuigan says Grammar Electrical has proven to be a like-minded business that has aligned well with Haydn & Rollett’s approach to delivering high quality fitouts. The two companies have since collaborated on several key projects, including the heritage restoration of Administrator House in O’Connell Street in Auckland’s CBD.

“Grammar Electrical have always been very supportive of the needs we have that extend from our clients. They’re willing to be flexible and continually meet our requests for technical and on-site support,” says McGuigan.

“Furthermore, they are great partners and share our need to continually improve. They have come on the journey and grown together with us as the company has evolved, and I believe we have mutual appreciation for each other in the way we approach projects and clients.”

Alistair Tilbrook, Commercial Manager for Haydn & Rollett, holds a similar view, having engaged Grammar Electrical for a large proportion of the electrical installation work on projects since the two companies first began collaborating.

“Grammar Electrical provide a reliable customer-focused service, led by a strong and experienced team, and supported in the field by good tradesman. They care what their customer needs and can offer high levels and a broad depth of technical knowledge,” he says.

‍

Shared values and satisfied clients

“Client service and looking after valued customers is of greatest importance to us, as the majority of our work is for repeat clients. So how we respond to them and ensure they are well serviced is key. This varies from thoughtful design and technical information and advice when needed up front, to urgent responses and solving a problem,” says McGuigan.

“Grammar shares this view and have been a key part in many projects and problem-solving activities with us. They don’t just turn up on the day but provide advance insights around design, sustainability considerations, and budget. They are also extremely responsive and reliable, which is highly valued by us, as it is with our clients.”

‍

For more information on Haydn & Rollett, visit: https://haydnrollett.co.nz/

‍