Partnerships that keep projects moving
Great projects rarely come down to one person. They happen when the right people communicate clearly, solve problems early, and work together toward a practical outcome.
At DTCE, we work closely with builders, architects, designers, developers, project managers, specialist contractors and homeowners. From initial concepts through to construction, our Wellington-based structural engineers provide responsive advice and practical solutions that help keep projects moving.
This collaborative approach has helped us build lasting relationships with clients and industry partners who value clear communication, reliable support and engineering that works in the real world.
We’re proud to introduce some of the people and businesses we work alongside, and to share their experiences of working with DTCE.
Building contractor for industrial and process facilities
Since 2022, DTCE has worked alongside First Principles Constructors on a wide range of industrial, commercial and infrastructure projects across New Zealand. Our work together has covered structural design and assessment, construction support, and close collaboration within design-and-build teams.
"DTCE has consistently demonstrated strong technical capability, commercial awareness and a practical understanding of construction methodologies. Their engineers integrate effectively with our project teams and work collaboratively with clients, contractors and specialist consultants to achieve project objectives.
Across multiple projects, DTCE has consistently delivered structural engineering services within agreed timeframes and budgets while maintaining the quality standards expected by First Principles Constructors and our clients. Their communication is proactive; they identify and address issues early, and they maintain a solutions-focused approach throughout project delivery.
One of DTCE’s key strengths is their ability to combine sound engineering judgement with a practical understanding of construction and project delivery. Their recommendations are technically robust while remaining mindful of buildability, programme constraints and project outcomes. DTCE has also been willing to assist with unplanned or emerging works as they arise, providing practical solutions and sound engineering conclusions that support timely decision-making on site and help us achieve programmes for our clients.
DTCE has proven to be reliable, responsive and easy to work with. Their commitment to achieving successful project outcomes has made them a trusted consulting partner for our organisation, and we would not hesitate to engage them again on future projects."
Anthony Perkins, Engineering Team Lead - First Principles Constructors
FPC brings together sharp project management and genuine construction know-how. They’re practical, upfront and easy to work with, and when a project throws up a curly one, their team gets stuck in and helps find a solution that works for the client, the consultants and the people building it.
We’ve built a strong relationship with FPC and always enjoy being part of their project teams. They have a real knack for keeping complex jobs moving while maintaining a close eye on quality, programme and safety. That mix of big-picture thinking and practical delivery makes them a standout partner for demanding industrial and commercial projects.
To learn more about First Principles Constructors, head to their website.
Wellington Based Architectural Designer
DTCE has worked alongside Mike at Vision Building on many Wellington projects over the years. He brings a rare mix of practical building experience and straightforward design advice, with a clear understanding of what will work both on the drawings and out on site.
“I enjoy working with DTCE because they are clear, responsive, and practical. We have worked with DTCE for more than 15 years and have successfully completed over a hundred projects together. Their designs are well resolved early, which means very few RFIs at the consent stage and fewer surprises once the project gets to site. They are also flexible when things change and quick to respond when adjustments are needed. That makes them a trusted engineering partner for both us and our clients.”
Mike Gilchrist, Architect/Owner - Vision Building
Mike is good at spotting where NZS 3604 stops and specific structural engineering needs to step in. He defines the engineering scope clearly, keeps communication flowing, and isn’t afraid to question an idea when there’s a simpler or better way to achieve the right outcome for the client.
That practical, honest approach makes projects easier for everyone involved. We value the strong working relationship we’ve built with Mike and always enjoy helping turn his well-considered designs into buildable solutions.
To learn more about Vision Building and the work Mike does, head to their website.
Expert retaining wall contractors
Since 2021, DTCE and JSW Contracting have worked together on more than 100 projects across the Wellington region, covering retaining walls, slope stabilisation and structural foundation works. On many of these projects, DTCE has provided the geotechnical and structural engineering from the initial site visit, ground investigation and geotechnical report through to detailed design and construction support, while JSW has delivered the work on site.
“Our teams have regularly worked alongside each other, collaborating on the design phase and overcoming obstacles and problems during the construction phases. Throughout these projects, DTCE has consistently demonstrated a practical understanding of constructability, retaining structures, cost-effectiveness, geotechnical considerations, and the challenges associated with delivering projects within Wellington's unique terrain and built environment.
One phone call from the site foreman to the engineer to check something or change something keeps the project running smoothly, on budget, and built to standard. On the back end during the design, consenting and preparation phase of projects, DTCE is extremely easy and effective to work with, with quality communication, regular updates, proactive responses, and speed.
We value the professional relationship we have built with DTCE and consider them to be a capable and reliable engineering consultant with strong experience in retaining structures, slope stabilisation works and construction support within the Wellington region."
Sydney Wainwright, Director - JSW Contracting
JSW brings the practical experience, specialist equipment and construction know-how needed for steep, constrained and difficult-access sites. Their input is especially valuable where ground conditions, access or construction sequencing require the design to adapt.
We value JSW’s open, solutions-focused approach and close collaboration with our geotechnical engineers. Their local knowledge and ability to balance engineering requirements, buildability, cost and client outcomes make them a trusted partner on Wellington’s more challenging sites.
To learn more about JSW Contacting Group, head to their website.
Building services for remote Marlborough sites
Since 2023, DTCE has worked with Roly at S.J. Contracting on remote and difficult-access projects across the Marlborough Sounds.
“We have worked with DTCE on a few projects now, full building releveling and structural strengthening. These have been remote with access by boat or helicopter only.
Dealing with a company like DTCE that have up to date equipment and great communication makes these jobs easy. Their plans and solutions to problems are practical and buildable, which in turn is better for the client and overall cost. I highly recommend the knowledge, expertise, and design practicality that the team at DTCE offer."
Roly - S J Contracting Ltd
He brings strong local knowledge, practical construction experience and a calm, adaptable approach to sites where steep terrain, specialist equipment or helicopter access are part of the job.
We value the straightforward relationship we’ve built with Roly and the hands-on support he brings to challenging engineering and construction projects.
