Product feature: Kobelco SK85MSR-7

Date: 07.12.2023

Latham Construction’s investment in the SK85MSR-7 8.5-tonne machine adds another layer of adaptability to their fleet

Latham Construction’s Kobelcos lined up at the Hospital Road Middlemore Development

In the ever-evolving landscape of construction and infrastructure development in New Zealand, Latham Construction has emerged as a valued player in delivering high-quality projects that not only transform the urban fabric but also redefine the industry’s standards.

In this exclusive feature, we delve into Latham Construction’s latest venture, the
30 Hospital Road project, and their experience with Kobelco excavators.

Located in Auckland, the project is an integral part in providing residential accommodation and ancillary services to the Middlemore Medical Precinct — a monumental six-hectare urban endeavour.

The project’s vast scope encompasses civil works that Latham Construction is conducting in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

Notably, this development is a partnership with Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki iwi, underlining the significance of cultural collaboration in modern construction practices.

Impressive capabilities

At the core of Latham Construction’s capabilities are their Kobelco excavators, each offering a unique set of advantages. Latham Construction’s investment in the SK85MSR-7 8.5-tonne machine adds another layer of adaptability to their fleet.

With steel tracks and rubber pads, this excavator offers the flexibility to work on different terrains, even on finished surfaces, if required. Its versatility stands as a testament to the adaptability that Kobelco excavators provide to construction professionals, the company says.

Meanwhile, for the project at hand, Latham Construction has strategically selected three high and wide SK210LC-10 medium excavators, two of which are equipped with GPS Trimble kits.

They have also included two SK140SRLC-7 medium excavators and one SK55SRX mini excavator in their fleet. Notably, the SK140SRLC-7 has a vibrating plate attachment, also known as ‘the iron’, which can be utilised on both the SK210LC-10 and SK140SRLC-7 excavator.

As Alex McLennan, civil manager at Latham Construction, emphasises, their experience with Kobelco excavators has been overwhelmingly positive, thanks to the robust power, exceptional smoothness, and minimal mechanical and hydraulic issues.

According to Alex, what sets the SK140SRLC-7 medium excavator apart is its blade attachment and zero swing feature, enabling it to operate effectively in tight spaces, making it an ideal choice for complex urban projects.

Furthermore, the excavator’s power remains more than sufficient for loading trucks and operating in tight areas. The versatility of the Kobelco excavators with the range of attachments and smaller spade frames allows Latham Construction to tackle a wide array of tasks, from minor jobs to substantial projects.

Latham Construction setting the stage for Metlifecare’s new retirement village

In addition to the Hospital Road project, Latham Construction’s portfolio includes the completion of Metlifecare’s retirement village in Beachlands. The project involved the construction of 64 villas, two large apartment buildings, and a host of civil works.

This complex project not only showcased Latham Construction’s technical expertise but also its ability to interact with village management and residents in an open village setting.

Latham Construction’s journey with Kobelco excavators exemplifies the synergy between cutting-edge equipment and an experienced team.

As Latham Construction continues to shape the urban landscape of New Zealand, its partnership with Kobelco New Zealand serves as a testament to the power, precision, and performance that underpin its success.

For more information, visit kobelco.co.nz.

Find new and used heavy machinery for sale in NZ

Keep up to date in the industry by signing up to Deals on Wheels' free newsletter or liking us on Facebook.