Hydraulink Celebrates 80 Years of Keeping Industries and Equipment Working

Hydraulink, a name synonymous with trust, reliability, and service, is proud to celebrate 80 years of supporting industries across New Zealand, Australia, and the Asia-Pacific. Beginning modestly in a small Auckland engineering workshop in 1945, the company has expanded into a leading international brand serving agriculture, construction, marine, mining, forestry, and transport sectors.

From Modest Beginnings to a Trusted Brand

Founded as Burr & Douglas, the company initially supplied agricultural customers before relocating to Pukekohe in 1953 to start manufacturing hydraulic fittings. The Hydraulink name was launched in 1973 — a brand soon recognised across industries for its bold yellow branding and “Best under pressure” reputation. A significant turning point occurred in 1989, when Lee Short and Noel Davies purchased the business. At that time, Hydraulink had just a few vans and limited outlets. They aimed to build a strong brand and a loyal distribution network. Today, Hydraulink leads the market in New Zealand with 7 company-owned outlets, more than 70 distribution partners, backed up with over 140 mobile service technicians, providing 24/7 service nationwide. Hydraulink New Zealand also supports distribution and service partners in most Pacific Island Nations.

Growth Across Australia and Beyond

In 2001, Hydraulink expanded its presence in Australia through the acquisition of Auspower in Sydney, establishing a distribution centre and a small branch network. Robin Simpson, now CEO of Hydraulink New Zealand, spent a year in Australia in 2004 in a vital role stabilising the Australian business growth. Since 2017, Denis Matulin, with eight years as Managing Director, has driven substantial growth, doubled the size of the Australian business, and expanded its reach into new regions and industries. Today, Australia has 15 company-owned outlets, 128 franchise partners, backed up with over 227 mobile service technicians. Further expansion into Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines has cemented Hydraulink’s reputation as a trusted service provider across the Asia-Pacific.

Supporting Customers Everywhere

As Hydraulink grew, so did its customer support. Its branch and mobile networks deliver accessible hydraulic hose services and technical expertise,  launching a full range of industrial hoses and fittings, along with lubrication and fire suppression systems. The company represents respected global brands such as Gates, Diesse, Semperit, Faster, Transfer Oil, Finn Power, Lincoln lubrication, and Muster fire suppression. Hydraulink’s yellow vans have become a familiar sight across farms, construction sites, mines, and transport hubs — a symbol of its commitment to keeping industries, equipment, and customers working.

A Culture That Sets Hydraulink Apart

At the core of Hydraulink’s success are its people — dedicated staff, technicians, and network partners who embody the company’s values every day. Their professionalism and energy drive the business forward while staying true to the principles established by Lee Short and Noel Davies. For the co-owners, seeing the business thrive because of its people brings great pride. “Hydraulink has always been about people and partnerships, and it’s inspiring to see how our staff, technicians, and network partners embrace that every day,” says Noel. Lee adds: “The commitment, hydraulic expertise, and energy across the Hydraulink network ensure the business continues to grow while staying true to the values we built this brand on.” That same dedication has underpinned Hydraulink’s long-standing role as the official supplier of hydraulic hose and fittings to Emirates Team New Zealand since 1995, helping them secure three consecutive America’s Cup victories, culminating in Barcelona 2024.

Looking Ahead

Hydraulink remains dedicated to growing alongside its customers. With strong leadership from Robin Simpson in New Zealand and Denis Matulin in Australia, Hydraulink continues to broaden its reach, invest in world-class training, and foster innovation to provide an unrivalled customer experience.

“Eighty years is a milestone worth celebrating,” says co-owner Noel Davies. “And we see it as just the beginning. With our people, partners, and customers, Hydraulink will keep innovating and delivering trusted hydraulic service for decades to come.”