Management team
Warwick tuffnell
We started Tuffnell Drainage Ltd in 2002 after moving to Leeston from the Peninsula. I had done my apprenticeship with NS Drainage Ltd,
doing mostly residential drainage and then moved to work at Laing Contractors for several years, gaining experience in large civil and subdivision work.
My family has a long history in the Plumbing and Drainlaying industry in Richmond, Nelson and I wanted to carry on the family name and create a business
in Canterbury which would eventually have the same reputation for quality work as my father, grandfather and great grandfather had up there.
From being a one-man band, with just one ute, hiring a digger and my wife Carmen doing the bookwork, we have built the business up over the years
to have a large fleet of trucks and machinery, employ over 20 staff and undertake large commercial and civil projects throughout Canterbury, as well as
supporting the District Council and Corde with maintaining infrastructure across Selwyn.
We value our reputation as one of the top Drainage Companies in Canterbury and we know we couldn’t have it without the hard work of our awesome staff.
We live on 12 acres near Southbridge and have a busy life with 3 teenage kids. In my spare time I like to run and bike in the hills and help run sporting events.
Carmen Tuffnell
Alongside Warwick, I have been part of the business since it started in 2002, learning as I went and initially doing all the bookwork from home. As the business grew and we had our 3 kids, life got busier, so we employed admin staff to assist. Nowadays, I am lucky that we have a great team in the office, and I can work from home, overseeing the financial and accounting side of the business and supporting Warwick with decisions and advice.
The rest of my time is spent running our busy family life and our lifestyle block, where I have a Welsh Pony stud and various other animals.
Darryl Collins
Operations Manager
I joined the Tuffnell team in 2021 as Operations Manager.
I am an open-minded, friendly and resourceful manager with a sound and optimistic outlook on all things in life. I am experienced in motivating teams, coupled with the ability to communicate comfortably at all levels, therefore ensuring an excellent working environment for all members of the team to perform at their best.
With 14 years experience in project/operations management, I have an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of infrastructure installation, storm wastewater and water reticulation being my specialist areas. My drainage experience in residential, commercial & complex civil projects covers pipe laying, gravity mains, rising mains and pump station installations resulting in my ability to oversee small to large scale projects on time, within budget and specification.
Tuffnell Drainage has given me a great deal of autonomy over my responsibilities. I select the time, tasks, team and strategies and this has given me the opportunity to grow as a manager. A diverse workload and a great team both on the ground and office support staff makes for a great working environment.
Away from the work I enjoy quality time with my family and enjoy on and off-road motorcycling.
Jun Hong
Quantity Surveyor
I joined Tuffnell Drainage team in 2018 after gaining my NZ Diploma in Quantity Surveying. My role consists of tendering, monitoring of cost and liaising with the project team to ensure a successful monetary project delivery. A keen eye for detail and Accounting background enables me to provide precise quantity surveying services at every stage of the project and assist with the financial management of the company.
Work life balance is one of my key priorities which helps me to keep improving my time management skills. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and our two fur babies.
Kirsty Elia
H&S Representative and Traffic Operations
I am proud to say I have been a part of the Tuffnell Drainage team since 2016. During this time I have witnessed the Company grow and evolve into a leader in the industry. Since returning after the birth of my son in 2022 I am continuing to develop my skills and knowledge in Health & Safety to ensure Tuffnell Drainage maintains a safe working environment for ourselves and everyone around us.
I fill my cup by spending time with my little family, reading and exploring the beautiful scenery Canterbury has to offer.
I enjoy being a part of this team and look forward to continuing to contribute to its success.
Bev Nortje
Administration and Operations Support
I joined Tuffnell Drainage in August 2022 to fill in for maternity leave and was pleased to remain on in an Administration and Operations Support role to accommodate the growth the company is currently experiencing.
My experience gained in Operations Support, Project Co-ordination, Office and Accounts Administration in various industries in New Zealand and internationally allows me to use my skills to best support Tuffnell Drainage’s growth.
Weekends will find me out with my family in the beautiful Selwyn District with sports games and exploring New Zealand in our caravan. I appreciate the good work and life balance Tuffnell Drainage offers it’s employees and being part of a dedicated and hardworking team that remains a leader in the Drainage industry.