ABOUT US

McMillan Drilling is a leading multi-disciplinary drilling company operating throughout New Zealand and the Pacific. Our range of services is comprehensive: from the construction of water supply and geo-exchange wells, through to drilling for geotechnical/environmental ground investigations.

The skill of our team and our range of equipment mean we can handle projects of varying size and complexity. We have been an active member of the New Zealand Drillers Federation (NZDF) since 1974 and our drillers hold NZDF Driller Registration status to guarantee you that we have qualifications and experience.

Established in 1947, we have been meeting the needs of our clients for over 70 years in an industry where proven experience and expertise are vital to success.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Health and safety are paramount and have been integrated into all our systems. Policies and procedures have been implemented across a diverse range of working conditions to ensure a safe working environment for management and staff.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Health and safety are paramount and have been integrated into all our systems. Policies and procedures have been implemented across a diverse range of working conditions to ensure a safe working environment for management and staff.

OUR HISTORY

A lot has changed in 70 years, but the fundamental philosophy of the business remains unchanged: to provide our customers with the skill, support and service they need to execute their project successfully.

1940s: solid foundations

Trevor McMillan began his career as a skilled and efficient blacksmith and engineer in 1947 in the village of Southbridge, Canterbury. This included well drilling within the Canterbury Plains.

1970s: carving out a niche

Family succession instigated the expansion to independently-owned companies for different areas of the business. Lyell and Val began the drilling facet as a drilling company, starting with five rigs and six staff.

1980s: customised equipment for New Zealand soils

Until the 1980s, the plains of Canterbury were only considered good for shallow irrigation or domestic water bores. The company researched a new style of rig that could drill much deeper and faster, resulting in the first Rotary Drill Rig arriving in the country in 1982. The months that followed were spent customising the equipment to suit the local conditions.

1990s: expansion and diversification

While the construction of water supply wells formed the backbone of the company, the business continued to grow and diversify into markets such as minerals, geotechnical/environmental, geothermal and civil. Value-added services also included the introduction of a fully accredited laboratory for the testing of water quality.

2000s: geographical coverage and international markets

Operations continued to expand geographically and McMillan Drilling responded by establishing businesses in Fiji and Auckland.

Today: a strong and professional business model

McMillan Drilling has 45+ rigs and employs in excess of 100 people throughout NZ and the Pacific, with branches in Southbridge, Christchurch, Auckland and Fiji.