Taranaki’s Business Excellence Awards Celebrate Local Achievements

The TSB Taranaki Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards held on July 29, 2023, showcased the resilience and innovation of local businesses, with Whitaker Civil Engineering taking home the prestigious Supreme Award. The Bell Block-based company, founded in 1980 by Chris Whitaker, has emerged stronger after navigating some of the toughest years in the construction industry. The award underscores the firm’s entrepreneurial spirit and its ability to compete alongside larger national companies.

Co-directors Frances Boyce and Graeme Dravitzki, who took over the company in 2014, expressed pride in their team’s accomplishments. Boyce emphasized the importance of their staff and the company’s adaptability during challenging times. “This recognition is a testament to the effort and hard work of our people. We see ourselves as a family, a large small business and a small large business,” she stated.

Recognizing Local Leaders and Achievements

Whitaker Civil Engineering has played a significant role in several high-profile projects in Taranaki, including the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge and the Liardet Street overpass. Current projects include the Coastal Walkway extension at Waitara and the Tūparikino Active Community Hub. The judges commended the firm’s innovative approach, stating, “With innovation at its core and down-to-earth drive behind every step, they now lead with confidence.”

In addition to Whitaker’s triumph, Graham Wells, executive director of Wells Group, received the Taranaki Mayoral Award. Beginning in 1984 as a small electrical and instrumentation business in a New Plymouth garage, Wells Group has expanded to employ over 400 staff, with a peak workforce of 700 in 2010. Wells credited his team and family for their support, stating, “This award’s got my name on it, but it’s about all the people that have contributed to our success.”

The Taranaki Mayoral Award recognizes sustained leadership and contribution to the region by a leader in the business community. Wells Group specializes in various sectors, including instrumentation, electrical work, automation, and field services across New Zealand.

Full List of Award Winners

The awards ceremony also highlighted other notable winners across various categories:

• Large Business Winner: Govett Quilliam
• Medium Business Winner: Central Taranaki Automotive
• Small Business Winner: HD Geo
• Manufacturing, Engineering or Trades Winner: Whitaker Civil Engineering
• Technology Winner: Landpro
• Service Winner: Govett Quilliam
• New and Emerging Business Winner: The Silo Crop & Brew
• For Purpose Winner: Taranaki Foundation
• Business Continuity Winner: On the House
• Environmental Winner: Hollard Gardens
• Health and Safety Winner: Landpro
• Brand and Marketing Winner: The Kiwi Butcher Shop
• Innovation Winner: The Kiwi Butcher Shop
• Employer of Choice Winner: Whitaker Civil Engineering
• Hospitality Winner: The Silo Crop & Brew
• Visitor Experience Winner: Feastival

The TSB Taranaki Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards not only highlight the achievements of local businesses but also serve to inspire continued innovation and resilience in the Taranaki region.