Where it started
Greg Ritchie together with his wife Mel opened Naki Plumbing and Gas in 2013. After leaving school, Greg went to Smedley Station in the Hawkes Bay for 2 years to train in all aspects of sheep and beef farming. Once he began his career in farming he quickly realized he was in the wrong profession for him and sought out a plumbing apprenticeship. After hounding the local plumber in Inglewood to take him on as an apprentice he eventually gained an apprenticeship and he worked there for 9 years before he decided to take the leap and open his own business.
Where it started
Greg Ritchie together with his wife Mel opened Naki Plumbing and Gas in 2013. After leaving school, Greg went to Smedley Station in the Hawkes Bay for 2 years to train in all aspects of sheep and beef farming. Once he began his career in farming he quickly realized he was in the wrong profession for him and sought out a plumbing apprenticeship. After hounding the local plumber in Inglewood to take him on as an apprentice he eventually gained an apprenticeship and he worked there for 9 years before he decided to take the leap and open his own business.
The Ritchie Whānau
Greg is a certified Plumber, Gas fitter and Drain layer. Growing up on a farm in Kaimata Taranaki, Greg was no stranger to hard work. This active childhood is what instilled his work ethic today. Greg and Mel also have three daughters who keep them on their toes, however having a business has meant that Mel could be around for the girls while still working part time as a beauty therapist.
The Start of Drain Master
In 2019, Greg and Mel opened a second business called Drain Master. This business specializes in unblocking drains and they have CCTV equipment and high pressure water blasters to solve drainage issues a lot more efficiently. John and Ed are the friendly duo that are the face of this business and they know most of the areas in Taranaki like the back of their hands.
The Start of Drain Master
In 2019, Greg and Mel opened a second business called Drain Master. This business specializes in unblocking drains and they have CCTV equipment and high pressure water blasters to solve drainage issues a lot more efficiently. John and Ed are the friendly duo that are the face of this business and they know most of the areas in Taranaki like the back of their hands.
Naki Plumbing today
Today, Naki Plumbing and Gas have grown to an incredible team of 18 which include plumbers, gas fitters, drain layers, apprentices and a wonderful office manager Kim. Kim has a background in the plumbing industry spanning over 30 years. She is your first port of call when you phone us, and she has an incredible wealth of knowledge.
Supporting local is important to Greg and Mel but also giving back to the community and region that has supported us on our journey. Our staff are our pride and joy, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without them.
