Kennards Hire expands in New Zealand

Left to right: Damion Kinsey, principal of Meeanee School, and Matt Cross, branch manager, Kennards Hire. (Photo: Kennards Hire)

Family-owned Kennards Hire has opened its first branch in Napier, New Zealand, bringing its total branches across the country to 30 in the process.

The company said it “remains steadfast” in its commitment to continue expanding its network across the country and supporting industry growth after what it describes as “a more challenging year for the wider hire and construction sector.”

Matt Cross, Kennards Hire Napier branch manager, said, “Already, our Napier customers have shown great interest in our equipment and service offerings, and we’re excited to further connect with more local businesses and residents while building strong connections within the wider community.”

Kennards said that alongside providing equipment hire solutions,  the opening will also strengthen its role in the local community and will support the transformation of almost 50 schools across the Napier and Hawke’s Bay region as part of its “Buddy School Program” in partnership with KidsCan.

Working with KidsCan, a New Zealand-based charity dedicated to helping children affected by poverty, the “Buddy School Program” provides hire equipment free of charge for schools to maintain and enhance their grounds and facilities.

The new Kennards Hire Napier Branch will serve as a central hub for 18 KidsCan-affiliated schools in Napier, and an additional 28 schools across the wider Hawke’s Bay region.

Damion Kinsey, principal of Meeanee School in Napier, one of the affiliated schools, said, “Kennards Hire Napier is helping provide our school access to resources and tools that may otherwise be out of reach for a small school with a limited budget. Whether it’s equipment for sports events, building projects, or school functions, this partnership enhances the learning and extracurricular experiences we can offer to students.

“This means we are able to complete projects that would cost us thousands of dollars otherwise. Right now, with help from Kennards Hire, we are working on repairing our bike track and creating a pump track for our students and community to enjoy.”

Branch manager Matt Cross added, “Partnering with local schools through the programme allows us to meet, connect, and collaborate with the surrounding community to make a tangible difference. We’re looking forward to contributing to the important initiatives that local affiliated schools are undertaking in Napier and across the wider Hawke’s Bay region.”

Julie Chapman, founder and CEO of KidsCan said the programme with Kennards provides “access to equipment that schools wouldn’t otherwise have, making a significant difference in transforming spaces where children can play and learn.”