Smythe Contractors had its beginning in 1952 and fast became a reputable contracting company due to the innovative nature of company founder Bernie Smythe. Bernie was the first New Zealand contractor to install phone and power cables with the use of a mole plough and today Smythe Contractors continues to look for new and innovative solutions to minimise client costs and increase productivity.

In 1964 Bernie's son Mike Smythe took over the business. On an overseas trip Mike witnessed prototype machinery for installing underground services without the need for trenching and he instantly recognised this as being the future of underground utility installation. Mike bought the first directional drill into NZ in 1989. He had a hard time convincing engineers to install underground services with this new technology and fought for three years to get a directional drilling listing in the yellow pages. He jokes now that directional drilling machines are carried around on the back of vehicles like lawn mowers.

The company now boasts 8 directional drills including the two largest drills in the country (Vermeer D50 & D80), a competent staff including Project Engineer, over 50 pieces of plant and the undertaking of the most interesting and challenging projects in the country awarded by reputation.

Continuing its growth through the 21^st century Smythe Contractors motivation is upon getting the complete job done.  As the social and economic focus upon trenchless technology tightens, the ability of Smythes staff to operate under the watchful eye of residents and community buffs, whilst keeping costs to a respectable level for clients remains key.  The environmental changes, and respect for those keeping their impact to a minimum has diversified Smythes market to include not only those employing their skills on projects, but to include all those influenced and affected by the operations of the company.

It is fast becoming known that trenchless technology provides the most appropriate and cost effective method for tunnelling, but the issues on many projects require an insight beyond what standard trenchless operations offers.  Smythes ability to view these projects and gain an understanding of what is required, sets them apart from mainstream drilling companies. This ensures that the customer receives the best service and design and the end product is of highest quality.

As Smythes continues to grow, based on a strong management team, plus well trained drillers and operators,  the company grows its success in building a niche awareness market of getting the pipe in the ground no matter what circumstances prevail.  Smythes continues to 'breaking new ground everyday'.  So from trenching to pipe jacking, directional drilling to micro tunnelling, Smythe contractors is here to support your project.