An interview with the general manager of Sidewall Scaffolding, Dmitry Belevich.
The construction sector in New Zealand has been hit hard. A five per cent overall drop in activity, skyrocketing material costs, and punishing interest rates from banks have created a perfect storm.
But one company is weathering it better than most – Sidewall Scaffolding, based in Auckland, which is not only surviving but actively hiring. The Times recently spoke to its general manager Dmitry Belevich to find out why.
Q: Dmitry, while much of the construction sector is shrinking, your company is growing. How?
A: It’s true – things have been extremely tough across the board. Interest rates have made financing more challenging, and material costs have skyrocketed. But we decided early on: we weren’t going to panic. We focused on tightening our systems, not cutting our people. When others were letting good scaffolders go, we hired them. We now have one of the most experienced teams in the industry.
Q: What makes Sidewall different from the average scaffolding company?
A: We’re not just fast – we’re available. Our communication is a massive part of what clients love. We’re on the phone seven days a week. We quote within 24 hours. No delays, no hidden extras. That’s not common in this industry, especially in a crisis. And when changes come up, our team responds immediately without charging clients more. That kind of service builds trust and loyalty. We’ve developed our reputation and clients who have experienced financial crises before know a long-term partnership is much more beneficial than a one-off price drop from a random supplier.
Q: How do you ensure safety and quality under pressure?
A: We use the Layher system, which is the most advanced scaffolding tech on the market. It’s fast, incredibly safe, and enables us to create full 3D designs for complex jobs. That means clients can see exactly how everything fits, whether it’s residential scaffolding or commercial. We avoid surprises and deliver on time. We save them money, time, and stress. And safety? That’s non-negotiable. Safety is first, always!
Q: Tell us about your team. You mentioned hiring when others were downsizing.
A: That’s right. We’ve hired talented individuals who were previously let go by other companies. But we don’t just hire – we integrate them into a culture built on expertise. Our crew is very international and diverse. The team understands the trades, whether you’re a roofer, painter, or builder, we speak your language and tailor our work to your needs. That’s why our clients often return for their next project.
Q: Some say scaffolding is scaffolding – what makes yours different?
A: It’s not just equipment – it’s how we work. We often plug into the client’s sales process. That means faster quoting, fixed annual pricing, and reliable support throughout. We’re not a one-off subcontractor; we’re a long-term partner. Clients trust us because we help them streamline their projects and reduce headaches. Our relationships are built to last, and if you’re a business owner looking for a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership. You are welcome!
Q: For those reading this, why should they choose Sidewall Scaffolding?
A: If you want fast, safe, reliable scaffolding without drama, we’re your people. We respond quickly, provide accurate quotes, and stay committed when the job gets challenging. We know your trade, we work like partners, and we’re growing because clients trust us. That’s not marketing – it’s just how we operate. In tough times, who you work with matters more than ever.
In an industry marked by uncertainty, Sidewall Scaffolding is demonstrating that trust, technology, and a team-first culture can navigate you through any storm. For builders, renovators, and developers in Auckland, the message is clear: Sidewall is not just scaffolding – it’s your reliable, long-term partner, here to help you succeed.
