In the competitive landscape of Aotearoa New Zealand’s construction industry, Hunter Civil has consistently demonstrated excellence through its commitment to quality, safety and customer satisfaction. Over the last 16 years, Hunter Civil, based in Christchurch, has established itself as a trusted partner for civil construction projects across the region, delivering exceptional results to public and private sectors.

Building strong foundations across New Zealand

Hunter Civil has built its reputation on a foundation of technical expertise and unwavering dedication to client needs. Specialising in comprehensive civil construction services, the company has become an integral part of New Zealand’s infrastructure development. An extensive service portfolio encompasses civil works, three waters, earthworks, and utilities installation – all executed with precision and professionalism.

What distinguishes Hunter Civil is its holistic approach to project management. From initial consultation through to project completion, the team works closely with clients to ensure that every detail is addressed, and every expectation is met. This client-centred philosophy has earned the company the trust of both commercial developers and public sector entities throughout New Zealand.

Comprehensive expertise under one roof

Hunter Civil’s success stems from its ability to provide end-to-end solutions, such as:

• civil and concrete structures
• bridge construction and repairs
• three waters infrastructure
• community spaces
• sheet piling and temporary works
• drilling and anchoring
• seismic strengthening and repairs
• marine construction
• design and build services.

Project excellence and reliability

Hunter Civil’s portfolio showcases versatility and technical capability. The company’s teams have successfully completed projects across diverse sectors, with a focus on niche projects that many may shy away from. These projects often involve staff members packing their bags and going to a remote location.

Each project undertaken reflects the company’s commitment to quality workmanship and attention to detail. By adhering to strict quality control measures and industry best practices, Hunter Civil ensures that the work not only meets, but often exceeds client expectations. Some of the recently completed notable projects are outlined here.

SH73 McGrath Creek Bridge Replacement

Hunter Civil successfully replaced the single-lane McGrath Creek Bridge on State Highway 73, near Arthurs Pass, with a wider structure, improving navigability at this challenging sharp bend. When facing geotechnical issues, the team collaborated with WSP to implement an alternative abutment design using vertical micro piles and horizontal drilled anchors. The new superstructure features nine double hollow-core prestressed concrete beams connected by post‑tensioned steel tendons, replacing the old steel beam and timber deck. Upgraded pavement, reshaped approaches, and a new guardrail were added to enhance safety. Maintaining single-lane access throughout construction proved most challenging, as this bridge serves as a critical link between the east and west coasts.

Point Durham Wind Turbine Installation Project

Hunter Civil completed a landmark renewable energy project on the remote Chatham Islands, 800 kilometres east of New Zealand’s mainland. The team overcame significant logistical challenges, shipping all equipment via weather‑dependent sea routes from Timaru and Napier, including specially disassembling their Komatsu BM600 crane into sections under 32 tonnes to accommodate ship loading constraints. The project involved installing 51 precast foundation units ranging from one tonne to 21 tonnes. The units were required to be post-tensioned and grouted. The precise lifting and assembly of 12-tonne, 30-metre tower sections, nacelle, and turbine blades were completed in collaboration with Vestas. By employing local contractors for excavation and backfill work, the project benefited the island economy while minimising environmental impact. Upon completion of this wind energy project, power generation using diesel generators will be significantly reduced, providing a sustainable and self-sufficient power solution for the isolated Chatham Islands community.

Safety and sustainability as the main focus

At Hunter Civil, safety is never compromised. The company maintains rigorous health and safety protocols that protect its workforce, clients, and the public. This commitment to safety is embedded in the operational culture and reflected in the company’s excellent safety record. Environmental responsibility also features prominently in Hunter Civil’s business practices. The company implements sustainable construction methods wherever possible, minimising environmental impact while maximising project efficiency and longevity. 

All this is reflected in its Broader Outcome initiatives and gets updated regularly to reflect achievements in this space. Hunter Civil holds ISO certifications for health and safety, quality, and environment, and maintains these certifications yearly. Hunter Civil stands out as a multi-award-winning company in health and safety, innovation, and sustainability. It was also named winner of the Contractor of the Year award at Civil Contractors of New Zealand’s yearly awards.

Community at the core

Hunter Civil is involved in many community projects of great significance to locals. It is a specialised skate park builder and is involved in skating community initiatives. Besides this, Hunter Civil supports various sporting events, and makes discretionary donations to various organisations across the Canterbury Region.

A team of dedicated professionals

Behind Hunter Civil’s success stands a team of skilled professionals who bring expertise and dedication to every project. From experienced project managers to specialised plant operators and skilled labourers, each team member contributes to the company’s reputation for excellence. The company invests in ongoing training and development, ensuring that its workforce remains at the forefront of industry innovations and best practices. Also, updating plant and equipment helps people to perform at their best and deliver the exceptional results.

Looking to the future

As New Zealand continues to develop and grow, Hunter Civil stands ready to play a vital role in shaping the country’s infrastructure landscape. With its unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction, the company is well-positioned to take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Looking to the future, Hunter Civil acquired G&T Construction, based in Kaiapoi, late in 2023. 

G&T Construction provides additional assets, experience, and scale to help position the Hunter Civil Group to deliver larger and more complex projects in the future. G&T Construction has a long history of delivering complex structural and three waters projects within the South Island, and has been a complementary addition to the Hunter Civil Group.

For private and public entities seeking a reliable partner for civil construction works in New Zealand, Hunter Civil offers the perfect combination of technical expertise, professional service and proven results. With comprehensive capabilities and commitment to excellence, Hunter Civil delivers quality work that stands the test of time.