Bluck’s Pit under care of new lease-holder Quality Roading and Services

Nūhaka landowners are supporting regional infrastructure by partnering with Quality Roading and Services (QRS) to supply local aggregate for concrete production.
This new partnership between the owners of Nūhaka 2C2L2, more commonly known as Bluck’s Pit, and Wairoa-based QRS, could also lay the groundwork for an operator training centre at the site in the future.

In July, Nūhaka 2C2L2 signed a five-year quarry lease with QRS, marking the first time the Nūhaka landowners have leased quarrying operations to a local company. The governing board is optimistic about the benefits for both shareholders and the local community.

“It’s a positive development for Nūhaka and Wairoa,” says Nūhaka 2C2L2 board chair Murray MacGregor. “Now that we’ve leased the property to QRS, we’re looking forward to a strong and lasting relationship and are open to exploring opportunities beyond gravel extraction.”

Bluck’s Pit, located 28km north of Wairoa, sits on an ancient riverbed. Aggregate material is extracted and washed onsite by three staff, before being transported to QRS’s concrete batching plant on Kaimoana Road, Wairoa.

Mr MacGregor notes that in addition to securing a reliable local supply of aggregate, shareholders are excited about QRS’s broader plans for the site.

“We’re thrilled to have QRS as the new leaseholders and look forward to contributing to the potential of a locally-based, purpose-built training centre for heavy machinery operators,” says Mr MacGregor. “This initiative will not only provide training pathways into civil contracting and quarrying, but will also offer opportunities for iwi to support the centre with catering and accommodation.”

QRS chief executive Jeremy Harker says securing the lease to Bluck’s Pit improves QRS’s concrete supply capabilities across Wairoa, Gisborne, and Hawke’s Bay. “We’re excited to partner with the Nūhaka shareholders and welcome the Bluck’s Pit staff into our company,” says Mr Harker.

As part of QRS’s commitment to the shareholders the company also hopes to utilise the area as a consented site for sustainable clean fill disposal. This would be an added revenue stream for the landowners, and a regional slip material disposal solution.

11 December 2024

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