OUR HISTORY
Who are we?
Based in Wellington and family-owned for over 50 years, Griffiths brings extensive experience to geotechnical drilling, water bore drilling, civil build, and construction projects throughout New Zealand and the surrounding Islands. Our proud history includes significant contributions to some of the country's largest and most technically demanding projects, such as the Clyde Dam, Wellington Motorway, Roads of National Significance (RoNS), Sky Stadium, West Windfarm, Riverlink, and the full design and construction of the Transmission Gully project, among many others. This expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence have established us as a trusted leader in the drilling and construction industries.
where it all began
Founded in 1971 by Gordon Griffiths, Griffiths Drilling quickly established itself as a key player, drawing upon his extensive experience drilling across New Zealand since 1950.
The newly independent company rapidly made its mark through geotechnical exploration and water bore drilling nationwide, notably securing two of the nation's largest drilling contracts of the 1970’s: the Wellington motorway (1971–1973) and the Clyde Dam (1975–1976). Mel Griffiths assumed the role of Managing Director in 1994, continuing this trajectory of success.
Griffiths Drilling's deep-rooted commitment to the industry is evident in its proud founding membership of the New Zealand Drilling Federation. Gordon Griffiths' lifelong dedication is honoured with a life membership, while Mel has actively contributed to the Federation's Council since 1999, including two terms as President.
Building on this strong foundation, Mel Griffiths further expanded the company's capabilities by establishing Griffiths Civil Build in 2010, which has since rapidly grown into a prominent force in the civil and construction sector.
WHere we are headed
Under Mel Griffiths' leadership, Griffiths Drilling (since 1994) and Griffiths Civil Build (since 2010) have evolved significantly.
Leveraging Gordon’s foundational geotechnical knowledge, Mel has brought a dynamic approach, embracing new technologies and innovations. His ongoing passion drives us forward as a respected industry leader. Mel's vision for a comprehensive, high-quality client experience has led to the strategic alignment of three specialist businesses into a single, all-encompassing solution.
We are also immensely proud to be among the inaugural inductees into the Wellington Region Business Hall of Fame and a recipient of the Wellington Gold Award for our contribution to infrastructure.
“This is a this well-deserved recognition”.
I would like to congratulate Melvyn Griffiths on the induction of Griffiths Drilling to the Wellington Regional Business Hall of Fame. This is a this well-deserved recognition.
This is no surprise given that Griffiths Drilling have been involved in investigating the ground for most major to small projects in the Wellington Region for over half of a century. Most importantly, this has helped us assure a solid foundation for our infrastructure and build environment.
PATHMANATHAN BRABHAHARAN | TECHNICAL PRINCIPAL | WSP NEW ZEALAND