LOCAL civil construction and roading company QRS has reported a steady financial performance while preparing for a challenging period ahead as key contracts approach renewal.

The company recorded a pre-tax profit of $1.08 million on turnover of $23.4 million, up from $1 million on $17.84 million in the same period last year.

Board chair Guy Gaddum and senior Quality Roading and Services (QRS) staff presented the company’s six-month report to December 2025 to sole owner and shareholder, Wairoa District Council, on Tuesday, 24 March.

Mr Gaddum said the result reflects a financially sound business that continues to deliver value back to the district, including a $50,000 distribution back to its owner.

“QRS remains focused on delivering value to Wairoa through jobs for locals, retained equity, dividends, and community sponsorship,” Mr Gaddum said.

Operational improvements are underway at the company’s Bluck’s Pit quarry, where new extraction methods are being trialled to improve efficiency and develop new markets. A newly consented cleanfill site at Bluck’s will support environmental goals while strengthening storm resilience for the district.

The company is also expanding opportunities beyond Wairoa by working alongside other contractors through a Gisborne consortium to secure work outside the district and strengthen regional connections.

Also, QRS has secured licences to manufacture, distribute and install EcoReef coastal protection blocks in Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki. Around 150 blocks were recently installed in the Waioweka Gorge and performed well during a recent weather event that temporarily closed the gorge.

“We see strong potential for EcoReef as an innovative and cost-effective solution,” Mr Gaddum said.

Closer to home, the Te Reinga Bridge rebuild reached a major milestone late last year with the successful lift of the 90.5-metre network arch into place, reconnecting rural communities and highlighting the capability of specialist contractors and the QRS team.

The company was also recognised in November with two Hawke’s Bay East Coast Civil Contractors awards: Training Company of the Year and a Construction Excellence Award for the repairs on cyclone-damaged Mangapoike Road.

Looking ahead, Mr Gaddum said the next six months are likely to be challenging.

“This year, our unsealed road maintenance contract with Wairoa District Council is due for renewal. It’s the backbone of our business and critical for maintaining our workforce capability, plant utilisation and emergency response readiness across the district,” he said.

Mr Gaddum agreed with chief executive Jeremy Harker that there is a real sense that Wairoa is regathering itself after several difficult years. “With community events returning and optimism rebuilding, our town is on the up.”

7 April 2026

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