
Our Company
What began as a small Nelson contractor back in ’88, is now a growing team of specialists who deliver civil construction solutions across the South Island.
Donaldson Civil Ltd (DCL) is a Nelson-based Civil Construction Contracting business. Co-owned by Gary Donaldson, Ken Nell, Wayne Russ and Luke Donaldson, these directors are supported by a focused senior management group, five productive teams, workshop staff and an administration crew.
Each productive team is specialised to deliver innovative solutions with maximum efficiency, they have a high standard of quality and health & safety while ensuring the best possible results. All while the workshop staff keep our gear in pristine condition and the admin crew ensure all other aspects of the business run smoothly.





Donaldson Civil currently has a fleet of 19 Excavators and 22 Trucks working around various locations around the top of the south. These items of plant are supported by specialist plant including a new Vermeer directional drill, hydro excavation trucks, GPS rovers, Traffic management equipment and small plant.
Our purpose-built premises in Stoke, Nelson is the base of our operation, housing offices, workshop, a training room and storage facilities for all of the plant.




“The Donaldson Civil team helped us with our underground infrastructure project … Their pragmatic approach and level of experience made the whole process run smoothly. We look forward to partnering with them for future projects.”— Client Quote

Our Values
At Donaldson Civil our purpose is to provide opportunities for people to improve themselves, enjoy themselves, and go home safe. Our mission is to be the construction company Nelsonian’s want to work with. We do this by following our core values, FAIR.

Family
We work best as a team. We want what is best for our staff, and give them the appreciation and respect they all deserve.

Accountability
We own what we do. We take opportunities and learn from them.

Integrity
We follow through with our intentions. We are authentic.

Realistic
We don’t sugar coat it. We keep it simple, and get the job done.