Hawkins team on a construction site
Our Story

Building with Pride in Aotearoa

From humble Waikato origins, Hawkins has grown to become New Zealand's foremost construction company.

Who We Are

New Zealand's Leading Construction Company

In 1946, Fred Hawkins and two mates sat in his garage and turned their passion into a business. One that would become New Zealand's foremost construction company, shaping New Zealand's skyline.

The Hawkins story is centred on its passionate people, some reaching fifty years of service, and underpinned by a quintessential Kiwi can-do attitude. From humble Waikato origins, Hawkins projects now span the length of New Zealand.

In 2017 Hawkins became part of the Downer family, allowing Hawkins to continue to grow and help New Zealand communities thrive.

Sir Howard Morrison Centre — a major Hawkins project
What We Stand For

Our Values

Our company culture has stood the test of time. These are the principles that guide how we work.

Fairness

Industry respect earned by delivering on promises and maintaining a shared focus on our clients' goals.

Health & Safety

The wellbeing of our people and everyone on our sites is non-negotiable. We go beyond compliance.

Sustainability

We strive to exceed environmental best practices, doing what's best for the communities where we live and work.

Collaboration

Strong relationships are the foundation of our success. We work alongside our supply partners and clients as one team.

Having Fun

We take our work seriously, but not ourselves. Building should be something to be proud of — and to enjoy.

Innovation

Collaborative tools and digital technologies ensure clear communication and cost-efficient processes across every project.

Our History

75+ Years of Building

1946

Where It All Began

Fred Hawkins and two mates started a construction business from a garage in the Waikato. A passion for building that would shape a nation's skyline.

1960s–80s

Growing Across New Zealand

Hawkins expanded from the Waikato into Auckland, Wellington, and the South Island, taking on larger commercial and institutional projects.

1990s–2000s

Iconic Projects

Major hospital, education, and tourism projects cemented Hawkins as the go-to partner for large-scale construction across Aotearoa.

2017

Joining the Downer Family

Hawkins became part of the Downer Group, gaining access to wider resources while retaining the culture and identity that made it great.

Today

150+ Projects and Counting

From Auckland Airport's terminal expansion to health facilities and education campuses, Hawkins continues to build the places where New Zealanders live, learn, heal, and connect.

75+ Years of Building
150+ Major Projects
4 Offices Across NZ
8 Sectors We Serve

Let's Build Something Together

Get in touch to discuss your next project with our team.

Contact Us