Southern Drainage and Earthmoving's recent investment in a Kobelco ED160BR-7 has proven invaluable in their operations
Currently operating as Dave Halder Contracting Ltd and soon to be rebranded as Southern Drainage and Earthmoving, this thriving small business is run by Dave Halder and Chris Lilley.
Situated in Riverton, some 30km from Invercargill, their business journey began individually before a pivot conversation led them to merge their operations to provide comprehensive drainage and earthworks services across the lower South Island.
With a team of four, including Chris and Dave, complemented by two additional excavator operators, Southern Drainage and Earthmoving is equipped to tackle diverse projects. Their workload spans diverse locations, from Queenstown to Glenorchy and Arrowtown, offering specialised earthworks and drainage solutions.
Investing in excellence
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The Kobelco ED160BR-7
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A crucial decision that has significantly impacted their operations was the investment in Kobelco excavators.
Both Dave and Chris had prior experience with Kobelco machinery, which influenced their decision when searching for a new 14- to 16-tonne excavator. Their research led them to the ED160BR-7, an excavator and dozer combo unique to Kobelco. Chris and Dave say they were “blown away” by the potential of having the pushing power of a bulldozer with a six-way power angle-tilt blade and the convenience of a 14-tonne digger.
Before finalising the purchase, Chris visited the local service provider to discuss servicing options.
He was reassured by the enhanced support following the opening of Kobelco headquarters in Takanini, which allows timely access to necessary information and services.
The ED160 Blade Runner
Chris and Dave say the ED160 Blade Runner has proven invaluable in their operations, particularly for forestry work, such as shovelling wood off cliff faces, and its capability to handle steep terrain and roading tasks makes it ideal for remote jobs.
In addition to forestry tasks, the ED160BR-7 is utilised for general clean-up work and agricultural projects, such as removing stumps for local farmers.
Comfort and efficiency
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The ED160BR-7 is also used for general clean-up work and agricultural projects
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Chris emphasises the importance of the excavator’s comfortable cab, which features advanced air conditioning, heating, and air-ride seats — crucial for the long hours he spends operating the excavator.
He also highlights the fuel efficiency, noting that the fuel light activates after using 100 litres.
Despite initial apprehensions about the Kobelco software, Chris found it user-friendly after receiving proper training.
He also commends John Mathias, the Kobelco sales representative for the Otago, Southland, Marlborough, Nelson, and Tasman regions, for his outstanding communication and support.
Looking ahead
With a significant project ahead, including constructing a 2.5km road for a forestry company, the ED160 Blade Runner continues to demonstrate its versatility by eliminating the need to move a dozer to the site.
With the combined expertise of Dave and Chris and the robust performance of their Kobelco equipment, the future looks promising for this dynamic New Zealand business.
For more information, visit kobelco.co.nz