Taranaki craneage and commercial transport company Agtrans has announced the retirement of co-founder Phil D’Ath, marking the end of an era for the company.
Founded in 2012 by CJ Mahony and Phil D’Ath, Agtrans began as a two-truck, two-tractor business serving the region’s agricultural sector.
Over the past 13 years, the operation has grown into a trusted transport partner for key industries across Taranaki, unique in their approach to heavy haulage, craneage, and truck-mounted crane work.
“Phil’s departure opens the door for an exciting new chapter for Agtrans,” said CJ Mahony, managing director at Agtrans.
“While we’ll miss his presence around the depot, we’re excited for him as he embarks on his next adventure – and we’re equally excited about the opportunities ahead for our team and customers.”
Drawing on his background in farming, building, and precast concrete, D’Ath brought practical knowledge, and deep industry insight to Agtrans from the outset. Known for his strong people skills and commitment to client relationships, he played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s culture, reputation, and success.
“In the early years, it was all hands-on deck. Phil’s ability to connect with people, and his commitment to our client relationships have been central to who we are today,” said Mahony.
As he steps down from his role, D’Ath and his wife Helen are preparing for their next big adventure – a long-anticipated two-year motorbike trip from Nordkap (North Cape), the northernmost point of the European continent, to Cape Town, the southernmost point on the African continent.
“If you think you can, or think you can’t, you’re probably right. Both CJ & I thought we could, and here we are – quite a way on from two trucks, two tractors, and the two of us,” D’Ath said.
“Thanks to CJ for being a supportive business partner, if we hadn’t aimed for the sky and challenged ourselves and our team to adopt new skills and technology, Agtrans would not look the way it does today,” he said.
Mahony confirms Agtrans remains privately owned, and that it is business-as- usual for customers and suppliers. The leadership transition has been in motion for several months, with internal succession seeing Phil Harrison and Logan Willemen rise in rank to projects manager and operations manager respectively.
“Our team is committed to a seamless transition. We look forward to continuing to serve our customers with the same values, commitment to excellence, and strong partnerships that have defined us since day one,” Mahony said.
Phil’s parting message is one of gratitude: “It takes a lot of people to create a company the scale of Agtrans – to become as successful as it’s become. I’m appreciative of all the customers, the staff and suppliers we’ve had over the years – thank you to everyone.”
