Our people

After graduating from university as a traffic engineer, Abhishek Radadiya was eager to apply an engineering approach to the traffic management industry. “Traffic management allows me to contribute to public safety while being part of something bigger – New Zealand’s growing infrastructure.”

Abhishek’s journey began on the ground. “My first role was traffic controller, then site traffic management supervisor, where I gained hands-on experience with on-site operations, crew scheduling, and basic Traffic Management Plan (TMP) drafting. It laid the foundation for my transition into planning.” Before joining Higgins, he worked as a TMP Leader, building his expertise in designing and submitting TMPs to the Christchurch City Council and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, coordinating with site crews, and using planning software to create detailed layouts and detour strategies.

Abhishek says he enjoys the problem-solving aspect – every site presents a unique challenge. “I also appreciate the impact we have on public safety and the collaborative nature of the work. Seeing a plan come to life and keep both workers and road users safe is incredibly rewarding.”

Abhishek joined Higgins Christchurch to take on the role of Traffic Management Planner. He says he chose Higgins for its strong reputation in infrastructure, commitment to safety, and supportive team culture. “I saw an opportunity to grow in traffic management, and the people make Higgins special. Higgins believes in a team-first environment and offers good career development.” His career journey is supported by training programmes, certifications, mentorship from experienced people and engineers, and opportunities to lead complex projects. “These have been helping me through challenges of the role, like last-minute changes to site conditions, tight approval timelines, and balancing safety with operational efficiency.”

Adam Plimmer knows how to make an entrance. When he arrived in New Zealand from his native UK, he didn't just fly here. Instead, he and his Kiwi girlfriend (now wife) drove as far as they could in his 1988 Land Rover. It was a fun way to travel, and it also showed his new colleagues at Hamilton's Brian Perry Civil that he was ready for a Kiwi way of life.

Since arriving, Adam's found New Zealand's the perfect place to raise his young family. "We have a small farm with motorbikes, tractors, native bush, bonfires. It’s like adventure HQ for the kids," he says. Adam's four boys aren't the only ones having all the fun either. Adam arrived with one Land Rover, but has since added another 10 to his collection, along with three military vehicles and a 1968 Bedford Fire Truck.

He says the biggest difference between New Zealand and the UK is the Kiwi pioneering spirit. "People are really innovative here, the ability for people to build things themselves, help their neighbours out, all that kind of stuff - to me that’s proper New Zealand," he says.

Adam is a Regional Manager for Brian Perry Civil and he's making sure the team is bringing that pioneering spirit to work every day. "This is a business that truly looks after its people, and I think it's important we push people out of their comfort zone to achieve things they didn’t think were possible."

Specialist Operator Alexia “Lex” Burton with the Hawke’s Bay Stabilisation team describes her role as “a bit of everything.” Lex operates the truck that delivers the metal used to prep the road for stabilisation with cement. After delivering the metal, she stays onsite to operate the vibrating roller for compaction. She’s currently learning to operate more equipment, including the cement spreader and the hoe. “What I like about my work is I'm doing something different every day – nothing’s the same."

Lex says Higgins provided her the opportunity to be involved in road construction, a field she had not previously worked in. Before joining Higgins, she was in road maintenance. “My role challenges me to test my ability to do certain things, especially if I haven’t done it before. My co-workers are always behind me, willing to share their knowledge and help me overcome any challenge. The challenges build potential. I believe I can do anything if I put my mind to it.”

Andrew Hills stepped into the coalface of engineering when he joined the team at Brian Perry Civil as a Senior Geotechnical Engineer.

As a specialist ground engineering firm, BPC offered an opportunity to complement his design skills as a consultant engineer with more the practical experience of a contractor.

“While we’re still designers, we’re on site all the time and see our projects being built. You don’t get the same opportunity in the consulting world to experiment with new methods and materials, and recalibrate your design methods based on what you’re seeing and the data collected on site,” Andrew says. “There is more focus on finding and delivering value, which is what engineering is all about.”

The work is faster-paced, as the BPC Geotechnical Team also cover projects across the wider Fletcher Construction and Piletech businesses.

Although he is based in Christchurch, Andrew works on projects nationally, including Wellington’s Te Awa Kairangi programme of work - a highlight, due to the challenge of founding (very) large diameter piles in a regionally-significant aquifer. Others include Auckland Airport’s Taxiway Mike project and designing various screw piling solutions through BPC’s in-house screw pile specialist Piletech.

Andrew’s previous consulting experience coupled with the perspective of a contractor has made him a well-rounded engineer.

“Being able to offer the experience from both sides of the fence is really helpful,” he says.

Anthony Godetz first discovered Higgins during a high school careers day, where he toured the local office, laboratory, asphalt plant and concrete plant.

“I remember thinking, ‘This is it.’ The big machines, the energy, it all clicked. I wasn’t thriving academically because I hadn’t found my path. That day, I found it.”

A year later, an opportunity to interview with Higgins Palmerston North set Anthony on that path. He joined the business as a labourer-operator, rotating through sealing, asphalt and construction crews.

Driven to learn, Anthony used lunch breaks and time after work to build his skills and gain experience operating machinery.

“I had a real passion for the machines and wanted to understand every part of the business.”

That determination soon paid off. Anthony progressed through a range of roles, including Construction Foreman, Pavement Foreman and Roading Network Inspector. He also played a part in the Christchurch rebuild and worked on projects across the South Island.

Today, he is Southern Maintenance Operations Manager based in Christchurch.

Reflecting on his career, Anthony says each role has brought new challenges, opportunities and lessons.

“The journey has been challenging but incredibly rewarding, and I’ve enjoyed every moment of it. Higgins has backed me every step of the way, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given. I’m excited to see what comes next.”

“Leadership is about staying ahead of the curve, anticipating challenges, empowering people to make decisions, and building a culture of collaboration and accountability.” That's the philosophy that guides Anton Benadie, Senior Project Manager at Higgins Auckland.

Since moving to New Zealand, Anton has built a reputation for delivering complex infrastructure projects while mentoring others and developing high-performing teams. Starting as a Senior Project Manager, he played a key role in securing and delivering major projects, including upgrades at Auckland Airport, before taking on a leadership role on the Eastern Busway project.

Today, Anton leads pavement delivery across one of Auckland's most significant transport programmes, combining strategic thinking with technical expertise to drive innovation and project success.

One standout achievement has been the redesign of the Rā Hihi / Pakuranga Drive intersection.

“We delivered a major redesign that reduced costs, shortened the construction programme, lowered carbon emissions and minimised disruption for road users, all through strong teamwork and clear communication.”

For Anton, infrastructure is ultimately about people.

“I'm proud not only of the projects we're delivering, but also of how we're developing people, strengthening collaboration and building high-performing teams.”

Working on the Waikato Expressway was a career-defining experience for surveyor Bayley Smith. Decades in the making, the landmark project reached completion in July 2022 with the delivery of the Hamilton section, where Bayley was part of the team.

Bayley began her career as a graduate surveyor with Fletcher Construction, joining the CityEdge Alliance responsible for delivering the final stage of the expressway. One of the highlights of her role was introducing drone technology to the project. At the time, the team regularly hired external drone pilots to carry out survey work. Seeing an opportunity to broaden her skills, Bayley trained as a drone operator herself, and the team invested in a drone for her to use.

“It’s paid for itself many times over, and I’m getting more confident using it,” she says.

With the expressway complete, Bayley took the next step in her career, moving into a role with Fletcher Construction’s Engineering Services team.

Blair Landon has been part of the Higgins whānau for more than 25 years. He began his construction career as a diesel mechanic with Glover Contractors, which was later acquired by Higgins. Through hard work, leadership and commitment to the business, Blair progressed through the ranks and was appointed Higgins Waikato Operations Manager in 2019. Today, he leads the Transportation Team and the ISO 9001-certified workshop, supporting the wider Waikato operations business.

Reflecting on his journey, Blair says a lot has changed since he started in 1999.

“I had no kids when I started. Now I have five, with the oldest 20 and the youngest just two years old.”

“I can’t believe how fast it’s gone,” he says. “There’s been huge progress over the years, particularly in safety systems and innovation. Tools like M5 plant tracking have made it much easier to monitor the location and utilisation of our equipment. We’re always looking for ways to improve, and I’m excited to see where the next 25 years with Higgins will take me.”

From diesel mechanic to team leader, Blair’s career reflects the opportunities available to grow and build a long-term future with Higgins.

Briana Stemp’s journey into surveying began on the Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway project, where she worked as a gatekeeper. Welcoming people onto site each day, she quickly got to know members of Fletcher Construction’s Engineering Services survey team.

When an opportunity arose to join the team as a survey assistant, Briana seized it. Supported by her colleagues, she gained hands-on experience across different areas of surveying, including Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), and developed the skills needed to build a career in the field.

Today, Briana works as a Geospatial Technician and enjoys the variety her role brings.

“I get to work on sites across the Fletcher Construction business, and every day is different. I’m constantly learning new things and helping solve unique challenges,” she says.

Using GPR and Electro-Magnetic Location (EML) technology, Briana locates, maps and identifies buried services before construction work begins. By creating detailed 3D digital models rather than relying on traditional 2D spot locations, she provides project teams with a clearer and more accurate understanding of what lies beneath the surface.

Her work plays a critical role in protecting underground infrastructure, informing design decisions and keeping people safe on site.

“It helps us manage risks and protect our people,” says Briana. “It’s rewarding to know that the work I do contributes to keeping our teams safe every day.”

Bryne Hancy leads a team responsible for maintaining Hawke’s Bay’s state highways as part of the Network Outcomes Contract team. Their work covers everything from repairing damaged signs and edge marker posts to filling potholes, setting up emergency traffic management, and clearing accident debris or fallen trees from the road. With jobs taking them across the region, no two days are ever the same.

Nicknamed "The Toolman", Bryne keeps his truck stocked with solutions for almost any situation he might encounter. A natural problem-solver, he thrives on the unexpected and particularly enjoys responding to callouts, where emergencies and challenging situations often bring out the best in people. As a former Army Reservist, his ability to quickly assess a situation, plan a response, and ensure everyone is looked after comes naturally.

After spending much of his life in the Waikato, Bryne returned to Hawke’s Bay four years ago to be closer to whānau. Joining Higgins marked his first role in the civil construction industry, but a diverse and varied career had already equipped him with the skills and adaptability needed to take on whatever the job demands.

His manager describes Bryne as having an outstanding work ethic, with a knack for thinking on his feet and finding practical solutions. Combined with his commitment to supporting his team and keeping the network safe, these qualities make him a valued member of the Higgins whānau.

Joining the team at Brian Perry Civil was something of a mid-life adventure when our head of ground engineering set out from her home in the UK in late 2024.

Caroline Rookes bought the whole family – her husband, two children and a dog – arriving right on the eve of her 50^th birthday.

“I had never been to New Zealand before but we are settling in and embracing the outdoor lifestyle our new home in Auckland has to offer,” Caroline says.

Heading up our team of specialist ground engineers represents progression in a career she set her path on from a young age.

“When I was at primary school in London, we went on a site visit to see construction of the Thames flood barrier to help prevent central London from flooding. I thought it was the best thing ever and went home and told Mum I wanted to be a civil engineer.”

Caroline specialised in ground engineering early on and brings to BPC more than 25 years’ experience, most recently as a Business Stream Director for a company called Cementation Skanska where she was responsible for all work across the North of England and Wales.

At BPC she is responsible for our projects across the country, including strategic and long-term planning. “My role is multi-faceted as it involves winning contracts, client relationships, managing our labour and resource across the full lifecycle of a project and with a mixture of being on-site and in the office,” she says.

“I personally like the people side of the role, working with the team and getting out and meeting new people and showing them what the BPC team can do.”

A key difference with piling and foundation work in New Zealand is the seismic considerations that don’t often factor into projects in the UK.

“The BPC team are really up for problem-solving. A lot of the projects involve technical skills that would be considered to push boundaries in the UK but are simply par-for-the-course here. This is providing me with new skills, as well as being able to bring new skills to the table too,” Caroline says.

“People always told me Kiwis were brought up with a can-do attitude and I think you do see that in the work we produce.

“I see so much potential in the future leaders here within BPC and am confident it’s an environment that offers equal opportunities to develop.”

As the only female, senior frontline leader in the team, she is keen to continue her ambassador work in the UK where she worked closely with graduate training schemes to encourage women into the construction industry and is part of Fletcher Construction's ‘Women in Construction’ programme.

“If you want to really change the picture of women in engineering, you have to reach them at a young age. Social stereotypes kick in by intermediate age, so generating interest at a younger age is the way forward.”

Christian Harold Udanga, Laboratory Manager at the Higgins Lower North Island Laboratory in Wellington, oversees technical operations, quality, and safety across the lab. He also serves as the region’s Radiation Safety Officer. For Christian, every day starts with checking in with his team.

“A typical day starts with quick conversations to see how everyone is tracking. It’s also my way of figuring out whether I need to jump in and lend a hand on the floor.”

Christian’s journey to Higgins began in Qatar, where he worked under a Kiwi manager who quickly recognised his passion and talent for asphalt and bitumen laboratory work. Impressed by Christian’s energy and expertise, the manager encouraged him to bring that same drive to New Zealand.

After returning to New Zealand in 2018 and joining Higgins remotely, Christian kept in touch with his future colleagues. In 2022, he made the move himself, officially joining the Green Team. It was a proud milestone for the dedicated Filipino, who embraced the opportunity despite the challenges of adapting to a new country, new systems, and unfamiliar industry terminology and specifications.

“I’ve always tried to do things right and safely the first time,” says Christian. “That mindset has helped me navigate some tough times and keep moving forward.”

Since joining Higgins, Christian has established himself as a key technical leader within the industry.

“It was a huge step for me,” he says. “It opened opportunities to expand what we do in the lab, increase our testing capabilities, build stronger connections across the asphalt industry, and keep finding ways to improve.”

As a leader, Christian is passionate about helping others grow. He hopes to prepare his team for the next stage of their careers and ensure their time at Higgins is both rewarding and memorable.

Christian also takes every opportunity to share the values he grew up with.

“Filipinos are known for being cheerful, friendly and hardworking. We take pride in what we do and want to do it well. I believe that attitude helps us build strong teams and achieve great results together.”

Foreperson Ed Tuira has been with Higgins since 2017 and remains passionate about the vital role road maintenance plays in keeping communities connected and safe. Ed leads a team responsible for maintaining the southern area of the East Waikato Network Outcomes Contract (EWNOC), covering State Highways 2, 24, 26, 27 and 29.

“I enjoy my role as foreperson because it gives me the opportunity to share the knowledge and experience I've gained over more than 20 years in the industry,” says Ed.

The team's work is varied, ranging from litter collection and marker post replacements to minor pavement repairs, drainage maintenance and incident response.

“The role can be challenging at times, but the support and caring nature of my colleagues make those challenges much easier to overcome.”

Safety has always been at the forefront of Ed's mind. Having experienced the loss of two colleagues while they were carrying out their daily work, he understands the importance of creating safe working environments.

“I've seen significant improvements in safety culture since I first started in the industry, but I'd still ask the public to take extra care around road maintenance operations. A little patience and awareness can make a big difference.”

Area Maintenance Manager William Morris commends Ed for his commitment to safety, attention to detail and the quality of his work.

“Ed played a key role in planning and delivering the SH29 Kaimai Closure in July 2024. His natural leadership and ability to coordinate both crews and subcontractors help ensure work is completed safely, smoothly and efficiently.”

Through his experience, leadership and unwavering focus on safety, Ed continues to make a valuable contribution to the Higgins team and the communities they serve.

At Fletcher Construction, we're not just proud of what we do, we're proud of who we are. For Senior Project Engineer Francis Swanney-Fetalaiga, that pride is deeply rooted in his Samoan heritage and South Auckland upbringing.

“I’m Samoan, but I’m also a South Aucklander. That’s part of my culture too. Everywhere I go, I represent where I’m from.”

Francis has channelled that pride into supporting the next generation of Māori and Pasifika engineers, helping others navigate their studies and build successful careers in the industry.

Family is at the heart of Francis’ identity. His parents immigrated from Samoa, and he is proud to be the first person in his family to graduate from university.

“My siblings didn’t finish their studies because they wanted to help my parents and get jobs. I was the youngest of five, so they all supported me. There were papers I failed, but I kept trying, and that was because of my parents. I didn’t want to let them down. They’ve been through so many struggles, and that’s made me who I am.”

Francis brought those strong family values with him when he started as a graduate engineer at Higgins, and he continues to carry them today in his role with Brian Perry Civil.

“My workmates are like whānau. I care about them like brothers and sisters. My job as an engineer is all about working together. It’s all about the team.”

Whether he’s mentoring future engineers or supporting his colleagues on site, Francis’ commitment to family, culture and teamwork continues to shape both the person he is and the leader he has become.

Glenn Boyer has dedicated more than 30 years to Brian Perry Civil and other Fletcher Construction businesses. Starting out as a labourer, he completed a carpentry apprenticeship and worked on projects across New Zealand before progressing into his current role as a highly respected Superintendent.

For Glenn, the satisfaction of construction has never faded.

“I love building things,” he says. “We’re never building the same thing twice. Every project is different, and that’s what keeps it interesting. I also love the camaraderie at BPC. You can talk to anyone, everyone’s approachable. It feels like a family business.”

Construction runs in the family. Glenn followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the industry, and now the next generation is forging its own path, with his daughter Hayley studying engineering at the University of Waikato.

Passionate about developing others, Glenn is always willing to share the knowledge and experience he has gained throughout his career. Whether mentoring apprentices, supporting young engineers, or helping site teams tackle challenges, he takes pride in helping others grow and build rewarding careers of their own.

When Harsha Datti arrived in New Zealand from India in 2015, he faced the challenge of rebuilding his engineering career from the ground up.

“I had to start over to gain New Zealand qualifications and local work experience,” he says. “Living in the Waikato, I completed a Graduate Diploma in Highway Engineering and started working as a labourer.”

In 2017, Harsha joined Higgins Waikato as a Quality Assurance Technician on the CityEdge Alliance team delivering the Hamilton section of the Waikato Expressway. During the project, he steadily expanded his responsibilities, first becoming a Hi-Lab Design and Manufacturing Engineer before taking on the additional role of Asphalt Project Engineer. In that position, he helped deliver 120,000 tonnes of asphalt while managing both roles concurrently.

Following the completion of the expressway in 2022, Harsha stepped into a Project Manager role with Higgins Waikato in Hamilton. Today, he leads a team of 40 as Paving and Production Manager, specialising in asphalt operations.

Reflecting on his journey, Harsha credits hard work, perseverance and the opportunities available across the business for his career progression.

“I’ve always believed that hard work eventually pays off, and Higgins has proven that throughout my journey,” he says. “I started as an Asphalt Quality Assurance Technician and am now the Paving and Production Manager for Waikato. Higgins has such a broad range of services, which has given me opportunities to learn, grow and progress throughout my career.”

From starting over in a new country to leading a high-performing team, Harsha’s story is a testament to the opportunities that come from embracing challenges and continuously striving to learn and improve.

Jacob’s journey from hammerhand to Senior Project Engineer shows where a career in construction can take you when you embrace opportunities and put in the mahi.

He got his first taste of the industry at just 18, when a labour hire firm assigned him to work as a labourer on Brian Perry Civil’s Majestic Centre project. His enthusiasm and strong work ethic quickly stood out, and a site foreman encouraged him to apply for an engineering cadetship.

That opportunity marked the beginning of a remarkable career path. Since then, Jacob has combined practical on-site experience with ongoing professional development, completing numerous training programmes, including a Diploma in Civil Engineering.

In 2022, his commitment to self-improvement was recognised when he was named a finalist in the Personal Improvement Award at the Civil Contractors New Zealand National Awards.

Today, as a Senior Project Engineer, Jacob continues to build on that early foundation, applying his technical expertise and hands-on experience to complex construction projects.

Reflecting on his journey, Jacob says he is grateful for the opportunities and support Fletcher Construction has provided throughout his career, helping him develop both professionally and personally.

Ask Contract Manager John Bezuidenhout what brings him to work each day, and the answer is simple: the people.

When John joined the Green Team a year ago, he was immediately struck by the strong sense of whānau within the Eastern Bay of Plenty team.

“We’re a tight-knit group. We care about each other and where we’re going.”

After nearly 20 years working in the construction industry in South Africa, John moved to New Zealand six years ago in search of new opportunities. Today, he is responsible for overseeing the maintenance of state highways across the region on behalf of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.

John takes great pride in the work his team delivers and the relationships they build along the way. Whether supporting his crews, working with stakeholders or keeping the network running safely and efficiently, he is motivated by making a positive difference for the communities they serve.

Safety is always front of mind. John is committed to ensuring crews can carry out their work safely while minimising disruption and delays for road users wherever possible.

For John, it's the combination of teamwork, connection and purpose that makes every day rewarding.

Juana West knows first-hand the challenges of being a young woman in the construction industry. As Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Manager for Higgins' largest region, Manawatū, she continues to prove that passion, confidence and a commitment to people can open doors.

Juana joined Higgins as an EHS Advisor and quickly made an impact, helping strengthen the region's safety culture through increased reporting, early injury intervention and proactive risk management.

“At Higgins, we believe all injuries are preventable, and I stand by that belief,” she says.

She also co-developed the Lower North Island Wellness Calendar, encouraging healthier habits and greater focus on physical and mental wellbeing.

Just two years after joining the business, Juana was promoted to EHS Manager, overseeing the health and safety of around 320 employees and multiple subcontractors across the region.

“As a young female in the industry, I don't always walk onto a site with instant credibility. I've had to earn respect through my knowledge and ability to listen. Higgins has backed my abilities and given me opportunities to create positive change.”

Juana credits much of her success to self-belief and the support she has received along the way.

“People often say promotions come with years of experience, but I earned mine because people saw potential in me. Higgins took a chance on me, and I'm grateful they did. I'd encourage other young women to back themselves and strive for the best. This is an industry where women can thrive.”

With more than 17 years in Fletcher Construction's Construction Division, Justin Johnson has built a career around innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement. Today, as Innovation Project Manager in Engineering Services, he supports Fletcher Construction, Brian Perry Civil and Higgins by helping teams explore new ideas and smarter ways of working.

Justin's journey began in 2005 as a Site Engineer. Since then, he has worked across several business units, including Pipeworks, Fletcher Major Projects, Brian Perry Civil and Engineering Services, gaining a broad understanding of the business along the way.

He leads innovation sprints and deep-dive workshops, and for more than three years has facilitated the company's Lunch and Learn series, bringing together internal and external experts to share insights on innovation and sustainability. He also manages the internal innovation knowledge-sharing programme, helping build a growing library of Innovation, Sustainability and Digital in Practice (ISDIP) resources that support bids, project teams and the Leadership in Construction programme.

Passionate about identifying new solutions to industry challenges, Justin is constantly exploring emerging technologies and ideas that can improve efficiency, enhance project delivery and create better outcomes for clients and communities. As a member of the AI Working Group, he is also helping to shape how the business researches, adopts and applies emerging AI technologies.

Karan Thakur is Higgins’ Operations Manager for the Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth Motorway, helping oversee the maintenance of one of New Zealand’s key transport corridors.

His role involves coordinating inspections, planning maintenance activities to minimise disruption for the more than 20,000 motorists who use the motorway each day, responding to incidents, and ensuring the network continues to perform safely and efficiently.

“The wellbeing of road users is our top priority, so we work hard to ensure there’s nothing on the motorway that compromises their safety,” says Karan.

Since the motorway opened, there have been no fatalities or serious injuries, a result Karan attributes to its safety-focused design and construction, including 48 kilometres of wire rope safety barriers.

“The motorway was built with safety in mind. Our job now is to maintain those assets to a high standard and help keep people safe.”

A civil engineer by trade, Karan joined Higgins a year ago to pursue his interest in the roading sector. The variety of the role is one of the things he enjoys most.

“Every day is different and brings new challenges that push us to improve as individuals and as a team.”

For Karan, the motivation is simple.

“Safe journeys are what drive me. I’m proud to be part of the team helping keep this strategic link between Auckland and Northland safe and reliable for everyone who uses it.”

Koa Wiremu is part of the cyclic maintenance crew responsible for a section of the state highway network across the eastern Bay of Plenty, including some of the region’s most scenic and remote locations such as the Waioweka and Waimana Gorges, Lake Rotoma, and the East Coast beyond Cape Runaway.

The team’s work includes repairing potholes, edge breaks and low shoulders, maintaining drainage assets, and carrying out a wide range of routine maintenance activities to keep roads safe and reliable. They also respond to emergencies, supporting first responders at crashes, managing traffic, and clearing fallen trees and debris after slips and severe weather events.

With almost 30 years in the industry, Koa has spent his career working throughout Ōpōtiki and Gisborne for a range of contractors. The past decade has been with Higgins, where he takes pride in maintaining the roads that connect and support his local community.

“I enjoy knowing that the work we do helps keep our friends, whānau and communities safe,” he says.

Koa values being part of a close-knit team and appreciates the opportunity to work outdoors every day while making a tangible difference. For a cyclic maintenance crew, no two days are ever the same, and that variety is part of what makes the job so rewarding.

Krishna Nand's career in construction was not a planned destination. It was a path shaped by family, opportunity and his father’s long-standing connection with Fletcher Construction.   

His dad, Vega Nand, has worked with the business for several decades, and his experience helped Krishna see construction, and Fletcher Construction, as a place where he could build a meaningful career.   

Krishna joined Fletcher Construction in 2012 and has been fortunate to work on several projects with his dad. Career highlights include significant projects such as the Waikato Expressway, Waterview Tunnel and the Eastern Busway Alliance (EBA), where he currently works as a Site Supervisor.  

Krishna’s role on the EBA project – a major transport and roading infrastructure ecosystem – is focused on supporting and leading multiple teams and zones, with a strong focus on safety, quality, productivity and client satisfaction.  

As a Site Supervisor, Krishna works closely with project managers, engineers, subcontractors and stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered successfully and teams are well supported to perform at their best.  

“I enjoy seeing tangible outcomes from hard work and working with a team. There is a real sense of achievement in helping deliver projects that benefit communities for generations. I also enjoy the challenges of problem-solving, working with diverse teams, and being part of an industry that continuously evolves and improves.”  

Krishna is motivated by the variety and versatility of the industry – every day is different, and every project brings new challenges, new teams and opportunities to step up. Working across major infrastructure projects has given him broad experience and a practical understanding of how complex work comes together on the ground.  

Fletcher Construction has offered an opportunity to take on responsibility and grow through the experience. The scale of the projects Krishna has worked on, means there is always something new to learn, whether that's leading a crew, solving problems in real time, or helping keep work moving safely and efficiently.  

That hands-on progression makes a career in construction rewarding. People start by learning the fundamentals, then build confidence, capability and leadership skills as they move from project to project.  

“There are significant opportunities through innovation to improve project delivery methods that can help us work smarter and more efficiently. There is also a great opportunity to develop the next generation of leaders and tradespeople, ensuring we have the talent needed to meet future demands."  

Krishna wants to be a leader who delivers results while genuinely caring about the wellbeing and growth of his team.  

“What motivates me most is seeing people succeed and watching a team come together to achieve a common goal. I enjoy creating a positive environment where people can develop their skills and deliver great outcomes. Seeing a project completed safely, on time, and to a high standard gives me a strong sense of accomplishment."  

Krishna is excited about combining Major Projects’ local knowledge with VINCI Construction’s global scale to deliver even better outcomes for New Zealand communities. He hopes that through VINCI, Major Projects will be able to build on its existing capabilities and offer career development opportunities.  

If you're interested in becoming an engineer, a Higgins cadetship can help you earn while you learn. Through a combination of hands-on experience, supported study and mentoring, cadets can work towards qualifications in Engineering, Quantity Surveying or Construction Management.

Levi Muller is one of the people on that journey. Before leaving school, Levi's teachers connected him with Higgins' Early in Career Programme Lead, Sarah McKenzie, who arranged a visit to one of our projects. There, he met Project Manager Tristan Paget, who had followed a similar pathway into the industry.

The experience sparked Levi's interest, and after showing enthusiasm and a strong willingness to learn, he joined Higgins after finishing school.

Today, Levi works on the Rangiuru Business Park Interchange project while studying part-time towards a Diploma in Engineering. Higgins supports his development through paid study time, funding assistance via the Employee Educational Fund, and a structured programme that combines formal learning with real-world project experience.

So far, Levi is loving the experience.

“It's hard to pinpoint what I enjoy most because I love my job so much. Going to work and seeing my team every day is a highlight.”

Since 2006, Higgins Wairarapa has been helping local young people build careers in civil construction through its cadetship programme. Cadets gain hands-on experience across surfacing, aggregates, construction and maintenance, while working towards industry qualifications, licences and endorsements with the support of experienced mentors.

Marshall Ellis joined the programme after leaving school in 2022 and is currently working towards a National Certificate in Drainlaying – Installation (Level 4). Working with the construction team, he has taken every opportunity to develop new skills, from operating heavy machinery to contributing to subdivision and infrastructure projects. He is currently involved in a watermain upgrade project.

“At Higgins, I feel you can achieve anything if you take the time to learn,” says Marshall. “Everyone has been incredibly supportive, helping me grow, take on more responsibility, and progress into a Leading Hand role. I’m excited to complete my studies and continue building my career with Higgins.”

Martin Ward has spent nearly 20 years building his career with Fletcher Construction. Starting as a labourer and later progressing to Temporary Traffic Manager, he eventually decided it was time for a new challenge.

“I was ready for something different, so I joined Engineering Services as a Digital Engineer.”

With extensive experience in temporary traffic management design and staging, the move was a natural fit. Today, Martin develops traffic staging plans for major projects, helping ensure construction can be carried out safely while minimising disruption for road users. His work includes planning construction phases, maintaining traffic flow, and designing detours where required.

“Digital engineering allows me to use my specialised skills every day while continuing to learn and adapt to the needs of different projects,” he says.

Martin is passionate about helping project teams embrace new technologies and ways of working.

“We’ve moved well beyond pen-and-paper design. By creating digital construction models, we can improve visualisation, coordination and constructability, helping teams make better decisions during both the design and construction phases.”

By combining practical field experience with digital innovation, Martin is helping project teams work smarter, safer and more efficiently. 

Matt Zame was one of Brian Perry Civil’s first summer interns, joining the business in 1997. After completing his studies, he returned as a graduate engineer and has since spent more than 25 years helping deliver some of New Zealand’s most iconic infrastructure projects.

Looking back, Matt credits those early opportunities with laying the foundation for his career.

“I had incredible opportunities to learn on seismic strengthening projects at Karapiro Dam, the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the Newmarket Viaduct, before moving to Northport Phase 1, Fletcher’s first deep-water port project. These were complex, pioneering projects that introduced Fletcher to new sectors and technologies.”

Today, Matt is New Tender Project Director for Major Projects, responsible for helping expand Fletcher Construction’s portfolio and supporting sustainable business growth.

He believes his career highlights the breadth of opportunities available across the Fletcher Construction Group.

“As a young graduate, I could never have imagined the career ahead of me, but those early years gave me a strong foundation. I learned how to tackle challenges through sound engineering, careful planning and great teamwork.

“I’ve been given so many opportunities throughout my career. While there have been sacrifices, including moving around the country a few times, the investment Fletcher has made in my development, particularly as a leader, has made it all worthwhile.”

For Merab Wilson, construction offers the pace, purpose and complexity she was looking for in a career. As Project Controls Manager for Major Projects, working on the Te Awa Kairangi project in Lower Hutt, she turns complex information into meaningful insights that help teams make informed decisions.  

At any given moment, Merab is across the status of a project whether that’s understanding project risk, improving governance, or supporting commercial and delivery outcomes.  

In construction, she found an industry built on collaboration, problem-solving and delivery focus. She hasn’t looked back since.  

“I enjoy solving challenging problems, working in an industry that’s constantly innovating, and collaborating with people from a wide range of disciplines. I find the tangible impact of construction rewarding. At the end of a project, you can see something real that you’ve helped deliver, an outcome that will benefit communities for years to come.”  

As a working mother, Merab understands (and lives) the demands this brings to life. The mental load of parenting, working full-time and continuing to perform to a high standard cannot be underestimated. This juggle, and a desire to support other women, led Merab into advocacy through her role as chair of Fletcher Construction’s national Women in Construction group.  

Through her work with Fletcher Construction’s Women in Construction programme, Merab champions opportunities for women to develop their careers and step into leadership roles.

“Women in Construction spotlights the work women are doing and champions them by building connections across the industry and within Fletcher Construction. The industry performs better with women, and with women in leadership positions.”  

“Attracting and developing the next generation of talent is critical. Infrastructure relies on highly capable people, and we need to continue creating environments where people can feel safe and respected and learn, grow and build long-term careers,” Merab said.  

Her leadership style is grounded in curiosity and challenging conventional thinking. She is motivated by learning and continuous improvement. As a leader, she wants others to succeed and cares deeply about enabling this.  

“I want to create a space where people feel supported, confident to contribute and proud of what they achieve together. The best leaders influence through trust rather than authority and create environments where people feel safe.”  

Looking ahead, Merab is excited by the opportunities VINCI Construction will create for Fletcher Construction. Merab believes New Zealand has a “real opportunity to lift productivity and economic growth by delivering infrastructure better”.   

Her hope is that with VINCI Construction, Major Projects will be able to capitalise on this opportunity and deliver infrastructure more efficiently and with greater certainty.  

Expert planning is at the heart of every successful Brian Perry Civil project, and with 25 years of industry experience, Merybeth Codera brings invaluable expertise to the team. She works closely with project teams to develop, review and monitor project programmes from tender through to construction, helping ensure projects are delivered successfully.

Merybeth thrives on the challenges each new project presents.

“I enjoy embracing new technologies, learning new software and finding better ways to contribute to successful outcomes for our clients,” she says.

Collaboration is a key part of her role and one of the aspects she enjoys most.

“I've worked with a wide range of people throughout my career, and I've found that bringing together diverse perspectives sparks new ideas and delivers better outcomes for everyone.”

Through her expertise, adaptability and collaborative approach, Merybeth helps set projects up for success from day one.

For Miles Wallace, second time’s been a charm. He first joined Fletcher Construction as a Project Engineer with Brian Perry Civil before leaving in 2021 to work for a structural engineering consultancy. In 2023, he returned to the business as a Design Engineer with Engineering Services and hasn't looked back.

Now a Senior Design Engineer, Miles develops innovative and cost-effective engineering solutions that support project teams across the business. He has contributed to a wide range of projects, including Seaview Wharf and Bothamley Park, where he helped deliver complex enabling works such as drilling fluid retention frames, cofferdams and specialised lifting solutions.

Miles manages the full design process, coordinating with engineers, suppliers and project teams while mentoring junior design engineers and draughtspersons.

“The experience has been incredible,” he says. “I get to work closely with project teams from the early stages and help solve everything from simple challenges to highly complex engineering problems. There’s a real sense of satisfaction in seeing a design successfully overcome an issue on site.”

Miles is also passionate about the role digital engineering plays in improving project outcomes.

“Digital engineering tools have transformed the way we work. They allow us to visualise solutions, improve coordination and solve problems more efficiently. Our team brings together people with a wide range of backgrounds and experience, which helps us develop innovative, practical and cost-effective solutions that keep projects on programme and, most importantly, ensure everyone goes home safe.”

Nandu Balakrishnan joined Higgins in 2019 as a Civil Laboratory Technician in Auckland before returning to the business in 2023 after gaining experience elsewhere.

Today, he leads the Traffic Management Planning team for the Wellington region, supporting major projects including Te Awa Kairangi, the Wellington City Council maintenance contract, the Hutt City wharf line, and Silverstream pipework.

“I’m excited to be part of Te Awa Kairangi, a once-in-a-generation project that will transform how people travel through the region.”

Nandu enjoys the variety and problem-solving that comes with traffic engineering.

“No two days are the same. Every challenge is like a puzzle, and finding ways to keep people moving safely and efficiently gives me real satisfaction.”

He credits Higgins’ supportive culture and leadership for helping him grow professionally.

“My managers have always been supportive, encouraging and empowering. Their trust has given me the confidence to take on bigger challenges, grow my skills and make a real impact.”

Higgins Network Engineer Ning Yan is proof that there are many pathways into construction. After completing a degree in Management in China and working in accounts payable, she moved to New Zealand, earned a Diploma in Civil Engineering, and joined Higgins as a Graduate Engineer.

Just two years later, Ning was promoted to Network Engineer for the Eastern Waikato state highway network, helping deliver maintenance programmes that keep the region's roads safe and reliable.

Ning enjoys the variety her role offers and is passionate about learning from those around her.

“I enjoy making things as accurate as possible and learning new skills from my colleagues, clients and subcontractors,” she says.

Supported by ongoing training and development opportunities, including Fletcher Construction's Achieving Women programme, Ning continues to grow her career while encouraging others to consider the industry.

“Even if you come from a different background, you can still build a challenging and rewarding career in construction.”

When Peter Capilitan arrived from the Philippines in 2018, he faced a significant challenge. Although he was qualified as a surveyor, his credentials were not recognised in New Zealand. Determined to build a future in the industry, he joined Higgins as a grader operator while exploring pathways to return to his chosen profession.

With encouragement from his team, Peter used the Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF) to gain a surveying qualification recognised in New Zealand. Supported by Fletcher Construction's Early in Career Programme team, who helped connect him with Connexis, Peter successfully completed his studies.

Peter is proud of what he has achieved and the opportunities it has created.

“I am beyond grateful for the opportunities I've been given to achieve my dream of becoming a surveyor,” he says. “The qualification has opened new doors for my career, and I'm ready for more projects.”

Rebecca Kendrick is Higgins Christchurch's first female truck driver, and she's behind the wheel of the team's first bitumen tanker, proudly wrapped with colourful artwork featuring Higgins employees as drawn by their children.

With 13 years of truck driving experience, Rebecca has worked across a range of roles, starting with a mini concrete mixer before joining the Green Team. Driving a tanker had long been a career goal, and in 2024, she made it happen.

“I used to tell my sons that I delivered the concrete or helped make the materials used to build roads, and they'd often roll their eyes,” she says. “Now I can proudly say I'm part of the team helping pave them.”

While Rebecca began her career as a London City & Guilds-qualified chef in the RNZAF, operating heavy machinery has become her true passion. She is also encouraged by the growing number of women entering the industry.

“I'm thrilled to see more women across our operations, from loading at Napier Port to manufacturing, and now tanker driving. It's inspiring to see more women taking up the challenge and succeeding.”

When Richard Rakovics first arrived in New Zealand, he quickly decided it wasn't for him and returned home to Europe. But it didn't take long before he realised what he was missing.

“I missed the openness, the greenery, the beaches and the lifestyle. I had to leave New Zealand to fully appreciate it,” he says.

A few months later, Richard was back in Aotearoa and has never looked back.

Today, the Zone Manager values not only the Kiwi lifestyle but also the opportunities the business has given him to grow his career.

“In New Zealand, you can achieve your goals much faster than in many other countries. Fletcher Construction gives people opportunities to progress. If the business sees potential in you, it gives you the chance to prove yourself.”

While Richard appreciates New Zealand's more agile approach to career development, he says Fletcher Construction's scale and capability provide a world-class experience.

“Working here, you get the feeling you're part of an organisation that could operate anywhere in the world. The opportunities, the projects and the people make it an exciting place to build a career.”

Richard San Andres’ career in health and safety has taken him across the world with Fletcher Construction. A Filipino national with international experience, Richard joined Fletcher Morobe in Papua New Guinea in 2022 as an EHS Advisor, supporting the NADZAB Airport Redevelopment Project and other projects in Lae Province.

During a training visit to Fletcher Construction’s Auckland head office in 2023, Richard toured several projects, including the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC). The experience left a lasting impression.

Later that year, he joined the NZICC project as an EHS Advisor, making the move from Papua New Guinea to New Zealand.

“Adapting to a different climate, culture and work environment was challenging at times,” says Richard. “But it has also been incredibly rewarding. The opportunities to learn and grow have made every challenge worthwhile.”

Following the completion of the NZICC project in 2024, Richard joined Higgins to continue his Fletcher Construction journey.

“I wanted to stay with Fletcher Construction because of its reputation for innovation, commitment to excellence, and focus on developing its people,” he says. “The company’s dedication to sustainability and community engagement also aligns with my personal values, making it a place where I can continue to grow and contribute.”

At Higgins, we invest in our people, and Sunil Tandukar's career is a great example of what's possible when you embrace opportunities to learn and grow.

Since joining the business in 2021, Sunil has progressed from Quality Assurance Technician to Site Engineer, then Sealing Engineer, and now Auckland Sealing Manager. He credits Higgins' strong focus on learning and development for helping him build his career, supported by ongoing training and opportunities to take on new challenges.

Today, Sunil leads a team specialising in chip sealing and bitumen work, contributing to major infrastructure projects across the region.

“I love this role because I know the work we do makes roads safer and more accessible. I'm fortunate to have managers and colleagues who genuinely support me.”

Sunil is passionate about bringing people together and creating an environment where everyone can succeed.

“We're a diverse team, and communication styles can vary. I encourage open discussions so everyone feels heard and respected. That's how we build trust and achieve great results together.”

He is also committed to inspiring the next generation to consider careers in construction and roading.

“Internships are a great way to introduce young people to the industry. Through hands-on experience and mentorship, they can see the opportunities available and discover how far a career in construction can take them.”

Taniela Napa’a’s career with Brian Perry Civil demonstrates that learning never stops and, with the right support, opportunities are endless.

He joined BPC as a Graduate Engineer before progressing to Site Engineer in the Foundations team, where he gained valuable hands-on experience solving real-world challenges.

“Site engineering is very practical. It taught me resilience and how to find solutions when things don’t go to plan,” he says.

While working on the Te Maunga Wastewater Treatment Plant in Tauranga, Taniela embraced the opportunity to move into geotechnical engineering, combining technical consultancy with site-based work.

“I received plenty of training and support to make the transition. Having a great mentor who guided me through new challenges made all the difference.”

Today, as a Geotechnical Engineer, Taniela is involved in projects across the business, including the Eastern Busway, where he is working with Thermal Integrity Profiling technology for pile testing.

“Every day brings different challenges, and I love the collaboration and support within the team. There’s a real sense of achievement when a project comes together.”

Taniela believes BPC’s diverse range of work provides unique opportunities to learn, grow and build a rewarding career.

“Joining the geotechnical team has given me the best of both worlds, combining contracting and consultancy while being supported by the wider BPC whānau.”

STMS Topaz Corliss’ career is a great example of where a willingness to learn and grow can take you. From operating a stop/go paddle to leading a traffic management team, she now helps protect worksites and keep people moving safely across a range of infrastructure projects.

Holding a Class 2 licence, Topaz operates a variety of specialist vehicles and is always looking for opportunities to expand her skills and knowledge.

A natural leader and mentor, one of the most rewarding parts of her role is helping others grow.

“I love seeing members of the team gain their qualifications, build confidence, and progress to leading traffic management on their own sites,” she says.

Topaz describes her crew as family, reflecting the strong relationships built through working closely together every day.

What started as a job has become a fulfilling career. Her journey is proof that when you find your passion and embrace opportunities, there’s no limit to where a career in construction can take you.