David Mackersey can flick his eye over a set of building plans and tell you almost instantly, and with precision, the estimated cost of the project. That ability comes after more than 40 years of experience in the construction industry. David heads the Mackersey family group, which is a shareholder in MCL Construction, a specialist commercial construction company with more than 100 staff, and Mackersey Development, a stand-alone business providing property development and management services and owning an extensive family property portfolio. The family construction company started operating in 1948, with David taking over the management reins from his father in 1988. His daughter, Annah, has joined the development business, specialising in leasing, building compliance, insurance and being the first point of contact for agents and prospective tenants.
“THERE ARE HUGE OPPORTUNITIES HERE IN HAWKE’S BAY JUST WAITING TO HAPPEN.” DAVID MACKERSEY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, MACKERSEY GROUP
Being a long-term player in the Hastings and Hawke’s Bay markets comes with advantages: there is a solid track record of professionally managing large construction projects from start to finish, having an ability to meet tight deadlines, having a detailed grasp of the cyclical ups and downs of construction and development and enjoying business stability. “There are advantages of living here and focusing solely on the Hawke’s Bay market. I can tap into an extensive network of contacts, we have quality loyal staff, and there is a great diversity of business which enables the region to weather economic storms. “For example, when one sector is struggling another will be strong and adding value to the economy,” says David. Tourism is growing rapidly, apple industry and wineries are making strong economic gains and the favourable lifestyle is attractive to individuals and businesses looking for a new home. Mackersey Development is well placed to also weather those storms. It provides a ‘one stop shop’ approach to commercial developments, with options for lease back, joint venture with the company or outside investors or a full turnkey project from design to construction. While MCL (Mackersey Construction) operates in the industrial and commercial sectors, there is an off-shoot timber and joinery business that services a wider market. “New businesses are coming to Hawke’s Bay, the commercial building market is strong and that’s reflective of New Zealand’s overall positive performance. Hawke’s Bay is getting its share.”