Canterbury Expertise, Trusted Locally
Canterbury is where Leighs began, and where much of our thinking has been shaped.
From complex civic and healthcare projects to commercial and education builds, we bring deep local knowledge, strong relationships, and a hands-on approach to every project.
Why you can trust us
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Grounded in local knowledge
Canterbury is where Leighs began. Decades of working here shape how we plan, build, and respond on the ground. -
Strong local relationships
We partner with trusted Canterbury subcontractors and suppliers who know the region and take pride in the work. -
Practical, hands-on delivery
Our approach is shaped by real site experience, clear communication, and solutions that work in practice.
Shared Foundations
Building in Canterbury also means contributing to the people, partners, and communities that support the region. Through our Shared Foundations programme, we focus on practical support that strengthens local organisations and creates lasting value beyond the project site.
Māia Health Foundation
Healing is about more than buildings. Maia brings creativity and calm into healthcare spaces, aligning with our belief that wellbeing and patient experience matter just as much as clinical care.
The Keystone Trust
A strong future for construction depends on access and opportunity. Keystone Trust supports young people into property and construction careers through scholarships and mentoring.
Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust
In regional areas, fast access to care saves lives. This service provides vital emergency support across Canterbury and the West Coast, where distance and time make a real difference.
Kind Foundation
Strong communities are built on care and connection. Kind Foundation works alongside people facing challenges, supporting wellbeing and positive outcomes where help is most needed.
Amotai
Inclusive supply chains create stronger industries. Amotai connects Māori and Pasifika businesses with opportunity, supporting diversity, capability, and long-term community impact.
SCAPE Public Art
SCAPE Public Art transforms public spaces into places of connection, helping communities come together through shared creative experiences.
Charitable Education Trust Greg Murphy Luncheon 2026
The NZ Institute of Building Charitable Education Trust warmly invites you to a special fundraising luncheon on Thursday 16 April 2026, in Christchurch.
Christchurch Archaeology Project
Supporting Christchurch Archaeology helps protect the stories beneath our city, contributing practical support that enables careful research and informed heritage outcomes.
Local Knowledge
Our Canterbury experience has been shaped by rebuilding, strengthening, and adapting live environments in one of New Zealand’s most demanding construction markets. We understand seismic requirements, tight urban sites, and the need to keep critical facilities operating while work is underway.
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Health – acute and specialist healthcare facilities where safety, resilience, and uninterrupted operation are critical
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Education – schools and tertiary environments built or upgraded around live campuses and community rhythms
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Civic and community – public buildings and social infrastructure that serve the region long after construction is complete
Backed by Experience
Our people are shaped by Canterbury. It’s where Leighs began, cut its teeth, and grew alongside the region.
Many of our people live in the communities where they work. That local connection brings accountability, pride, and a strong understanding of what matters to Canterbury clients.
Lee Peto
Commercial Manager South Island
Simon Chambers
Construction Manager South Island
Neil Hamilton
National Technology Manager
Mike Knowles
Regional Manager - South Island
Paul Dennis
General Manager HSESQ
Jess Massey
Human Resources Manager
Rebecca Mitchell
Group Financial Controller
David Jarman
Group Chief Financial Officer
Matt Russell
Estimating Manager
Jeff Macdonald
South Island Operations Manager
Mark Pearson
Head of Design
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