Construction of 18,900 square metre facility begins

27 November 2014

Construction of 18,900 square metre facility begins at Wigram

The start of construction of Skellerup’s world class Dairy Rubberware Development and manufacturing facility at Wigram Business Park in Christchurch was marked today with a Maori blessing along with the traditional sod turning ceremony.

Performing the blessing that prepares the land for construction was Tāua Aroha Reriti-Crofts, of Ngāi Tūāhuriri rūnanga. Turning the first sod was the Skellerup Chairman Sir Selwyn Cushing.

Sir Selwyn said: “This is an extremely important project for Skellerup being a significant investment to build a world-class facility. It is also important for Christchurch and our people here. This purpose built facility will serve our Agri division and ensure that we remain at the cutting edge of what we do for both our New Zealand and international customers. Our leading chemists, engineers, technicians and our manufacturing team, I am sure, will thrive in this new environment by working closely to develop new and smart solutions.”

Sir Selwyn thanked all those involved in bringing the project to this point including the Skellerup team, lead contractor Calder Stewart, project adviser Beca and project champion Sir Ron Carter. Sir Selwyn also noted that the building consent has been granted. He acknowledged the input from the Christchurch City Council which delivered on its commitment to deal with Skellerup’s building application in a timely and constructive manner.

The location of the new facility is in the Wigram Business Park developed by Ngāi Tahu Property Limited who have also been very supportive and helpful, Sir Selwyn said. The Park is well placed to access both the Port of Lyttelton and Christchurch International Airport, both important links for Skellerup’s exports.

Construction is expected to be completed in December 2015, with the relocation process from Woolston commencing immediately after this.

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