Let me tell you about Gavin Midgley — Dargaville born and raised where dirt roads and farming roots shaped the foundation of his story. Growing up surrounded by the hum of tractors and the rhythm of rural life, Gavin’s curiosity wasn’t just about how things worked—it was about how to make them better, bigger and stronger.
Apulu Alo Aliitaeao (TJay) Asiata
Unsurprisingly, this spirit of innovation led him to launch Midgley Developments in 2016, a business born out of a deep desire to build and create.
Gavin’s journey to Waikato wasn’t just one straight line. He hit the books hard, diving into business studies and engineering, a dual focus that gave him the tools to think both practically and strategically. For him, it was never about crunching numbers or following blueprints; it was about asking: “How can this be done differently? How can it be done better?”
This curiosity fuelled his drive to take on some massive projects. He highlighted the Hamilton Temple project, a three-year odyssey that included earthworks, roads, and services. It wasn’t just about moving dirt; it was about shaping the groundwork for something meaningful. Then there’s Pairere Interchange on State Highway 1, a project that brought his vision to life on one of New Zealand’s most vital transport arteries.
As a proud Church College old boy, Gavin doesn’t shy away from sharing the lessons that came with the territory. One that sticks with him? Having the wrong people on the boat. In his words, “You can have the best boat, but if the crew isn’t rowing in the same direction, you’re going nowhere fast.” It’s a hard truth he’s learned to navigate, and it’s shaped how he approaches building his team.
But let’s be real — there have been those “hit the wall” moments. You know, those times when the tank feels empty, and the road ahead seems longer than ever. Gavin credits those moments for teaching him resilience. His mantra? Push on. The wall isn’t the end; it’s just part of the journey.
It’s not just about what’s being built; it’s about who’s building it. Growing a core team and watching individuals thrive — both personally and professionally — is one of his proudest achievements. “When the people grow, the projects grow,” he says.
Now, with projects spanning the North Island, Gavin finds himself back in Dargaville, closer to family and the place where it all began. There’s something poetic about working on home turf, building not just for the future but also for the community that shaped him.
Gavin’s story isn’t just about dirt and steel; it’s about grit, growth, and the power of curiosity. He’s proof that no matter where you start, the right mix of passion and purpose can take you anywhere. Keep an eye on him — he’s just getting started.
Gavin Midgley
