People first
As we reflect on our growth throughout the region, we’ve been thrilled to welcome many new faces. Two each in Nelson, Timaru, and Greymouth respectively and eight in Christchurch. Our Civil teams continue to thrive, now boasting a team of 24. Great to have our 2023 graduate cohort on board with Felix and Clayton joining our Christchurch team, Simon over in Nelson, plus Clay landing with us in the New Year. Expanding our horizons and minds, this summer we’re hosting 8 University students who have been invaluable in supporting the business. We’re proud of our DO teams as we continue to make an impact across all four offices.
The year also marked several significant milestones. Nathan Lines celebrated his twenty-year anniversary and a few of the team hitting a decade with DO. With the borders well and truly open, we ventured overseas to China, France, Japan, USA, Pacific Islands, Scotland, the UK to celebrate weddings or for that well-earned break.
We’ve increased our presence in the West Coast and have been involved in crucial community projects. In line with this expansion and having outgrown our former premises, our Greymouth team moved to new offices in the heart of the town.
Prioritising health & safety
Prioritising health and safety, our geo team implemented the safety scala to enhance our commitment to a safer work environment. We’ve also invested in various tools and innovation helping us to deliver high quality work across the board. Out in the community, in collaboration with the Automobile Association and one of our major clients, we supported the ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’ cycle safety campaign. An initiative promoting cycle safety in schools throughout the Canterbury region. With a passionate and ambitious team leading the campaign, there’s no doubt that the initiative will expand further afield.
Staying accountable
DO proudly celebrates nine years of Toitū CarboNZero accreditation, highlighting our commitment to sustainability. We’ve also maintained SiteWise gold status for the third consecutive year, emphasising our dedication to health and safety standards.
Taking care of our wellbeing
It’s vital to be in ‘tip top’ shape for our clients, the team and of course, ourselves. 2023 has been another jam-packed year featuring virtually every sport you can think of. From regional running events to 24-hour biking comps, 100 km cycle races, team tournaments (tennis, golf, netball, basketball, and touch), solo sensational personal bests to memorable moments on the slopes. To the relentless wellbeing campaigner and runner, Kirsten Hall, who covered a staggering distance of 2,500 kilometres in the past 12 months and Alastair Wood, who ran 30km at the Crater Rim Ultra and a mind-blowing, 60 kms in the Kepler Challenge – well done to you both. Teams for this years’ Corporate Challenge surpassed previous years with a record 30 participants.
Whether it’s switching off for a retreat in the middle of nowhere, getting crafty with woodwork or merely taking time out, we encourage and promote mental wellbeing.
Continuous learning
Dedicated to continuous learning, we immerse ourselves in our respective industries. We prioritise evaluating industry applications, supporting diverse groups, and collaborating with universities and forums that feature industry advocates, future leaders, and talent. Essential to our professional development is the ongoing commitment to upskilling in our specialised fields. Thanks to Kirsten, Ben P, and Samantha, for delivering various in-house training throughout the year. Additionally, honing crucial skills, such as first aid and 4WD driving, remains integral to our growth and adaptability.
Immersing ourselves across the industry
From an industry perspective, we’ve been busy! The DO geo team uploaded 535 field records to the New Zealand Geotechnical Database, significantly enriching and contributing to a comprehensive resource. We attended various industry events throughout the region, including WasteMinz, NZPI, SESOC and Water NZ, where we tuned in to hear from the real Erin Brockovich. Her advocacy for the environment was impactful, as well as her opinion on the importance of practical tools to empower stakeholder engagement.
It’s also been the year where we celebrated several panel and senior appointments, charterships and scholarships across the team, providing us with an invaluable opportunity to represent and contribute to the industry at large.
Actively supporting what matters
Counting steps in September, growing mo’s in November, planting trees at Taylors Mistake and dressing head to toe in pink for Breast Cancer fundraisers, we enjoy working with and showing our support for charities, community groups (Hororātā Highland Games), and local businesses.
To our clients, networks, local community, contractors, partners, DO alumni and the team, thank you for your continued support throughout 2023. We hope that the year winds down smoothly, and you enjoy a well-deserved break. Looking forward to working with you next year – here’s to a fantastic 2024.
