“Meeting the Growing Demand for Dairy Farming Equipment”

In the below Video May 2014 interview, Neil Pluck reflects on the evolution of his business (Plucks Engineering) and the rapid changes occurring in the Mid-Canterbury region. His company, which then employed 17 staff, had expanded its operations, not only focusing on manufacturing but also catering to the increased need for specialised machinery and equipment servicing. This shift was a result of both deliberate business decisions, and the opportunities created by the district’s growing dairy farming sector.

Pluck emphasises that the introduction of large-scale irrigation was a game-changer for Mid-Canterbury. He recalls how, 30 to 40 years ago, the district was much quieter, with fewer businesses and minimal economic activity, particularly on weekends. However, irrigation brought prosperity, attracting more residents and boosting the local economy. Dairy farming, in particular, fuelled this growth, requiring new types of machinery tailored to large-scale operations, as well as regular maintenance services to keep the equipment running efficiently.

According to Neil, the district now pulses with energy, supported by a constant influx of cash and thriving retail and business activity. His company has benefited from this surge, employing a more skilled workforce and offering higher wages, which he attributes to the overall growth of the region. The business environment, once slow-paced, had become fast-moving and filled with opportunities, making it an exciting and rewarding place to operate.