McKay’s commitment to the legacy of Ward Chandler

The story of Ward Chandler Electrical began in the late 1950s, when two ambitious night school students, David Ward and Maurie Chandler, transformed their friendship into a thriving business. With a commitment to quality and a customer-centric approach, the duo laid the foundation for what would become one of Auckland’s most trusted electrical contracting companies.

As the company expanded throughout the 1960s, it secured its first major project: The State Insurance Building, a landmark that helped define Auckland’s skyline. This engagement not only marked Ward Chandler’s rise as a key player in the industry but also set the stage for a series of future projects.

The 1970s saw the entry of Project Engineer and Estimator Mark Borland, who would eventually become a co-owner in 1986. Under the leadership of Ward, Chandler, and Borland, the company grew significantly and undertook strategic acquisitions, including Crusade Electrical and Parlor Electrical. This expansion allowed Ward Chandler to extend its reach across the North Island and into the South Pacific, completing notable projects in Fiji, Tonga, and various iconic locations within New Zealand.

By the mid-1980s, Ward Chandler Electrical had established itself as a leader in the industry with a workforce of 120 employees, and a portfolio full of landmark projects such as North Shore Hospital, Aotea Centre, and the original Auckland Casino.

The transition to McKay

In late 2006, as David and Maurie prepared for retirement, Mark Borland took sole reins of the business, continuing to grow and lead the company successfully for nearly 10 years, before being acquired by McKay in December 2015. The acquisition brought together two family-owned companies. Both recognised for their dedication to quality and service, the acquisition marked a pivotal moment that resulted in a 30% increase in the size of McKay’s operations, creating the capacity to enhance resources for projects across the Auckland region.

For the next 10 years, McKay and Ward Chandler worked together throughout Auckland. Ward Chandler concentrated on supporting Auckland’s commercial electrical market, while McKay focused on the infrastructure and industrial markets. Together, providing innovative electrical solutions to all of Auckland’s key industries.

As collaboration between the two companies increased, with projects leveraging the talent pool and capabilities of each, the decision to integrate the Ward Chandler brand fully into McKay was reached in 2024 to offer customers a streamlined operation that continues to foster the reliability and responsiveness that Ward Chandler is known for, with the added benefit of McKay’s innovative solutions. The integration ensures that projects of all scope and size are executed with exceptional efficiency and effectiveness under a single brand.

The Legacy

One of the defining strengths of Ward Chandler Electrical (WCEL) was the personable approach of its owners and leadership team. They built genuine, long-term relationships with clients, builders, and industry partners, creating a network of loyalty and trust that became the backbone of their success. Clients knew they could pick up the phone and speak directly to an owner, either Maurie, David or Mark, fostering a sense of reliability and personal connection.

WCEL’s also showed industry leadership with the ability to specialise in Electrical for Mechanical (E4M) services at a time when few others could deliver this expertise set them apart. For over a decade, they dominated this area of electrical engineering, providing skilled solutions that cemented their reputation as industry leaders. Together, these qualities not only ensured their success but also created a legacy of professionalism and trustworthiness that endures to this day.

Beyond its professional achievements, WCEL fostered a vibrant and inclusive company culture. From pool and dart tournaments to cricket and touch rugby teams, the company prioritised camaraderie and connection among its staff.

Looking Ahead

As the Ward Chandler brand merges with McKay, its legacy will continue to thrive within a broader and even more dynamic organisation. This transition not only preserves the incredible achievements of WCEL but also enriches McKay with new expertise and talent. Together, the combined teams are set to build on the foundations of success and innovation that both companies have long upheld.

While we bid farewell to the Ward Chandler brand, we celebrate its remarkable journey and the impact it has made on New Zealand’s electrical industry. McKay is honored to carry forward WCEL’s legacy and looks forward to a future where shared values and combined strengths pave the way for even greater accomplishments.