A key part of my due diligence process has been speaking with potential customers and reviewing written feedback from businesses operating throughout the Coromandel. The feedback has been remarkably consistent. A major building company operating across the region noted: "Due to the architectural style of our homes and the often challenging nature of sites across the Coromandel, we regularly require the expertise of specialist operators for lifting materials and equipment." A structural engineering and steel fabrication firm highlighted another challenge facing local projects: "Having a local machine of this capability enables projects to be delivered locally, reducing downtime involved if waiting for an out-of-town contractor and their subsequent travel and transportation costs." These comments reinforce what I have been hearing across multiple sectors. Challenging terrain, restricted access, steep sites, and the cost of bringing specialist equipment into the region continue to create operational and financial challenges for local projects. Several businesses have also indicated strong forward workloads extending into 2026 and 2027, providing confidence that construction and infrastructure activity will remain active within the region. While no investment decision should rely solely on letters of support, the feedback received provides valuable independent validation that a genuine market need exists for specialist access and lifting solutions within the Coromandel. I look forward to sharing further findings as the assessment progresses.
