A Crushing Legacy through Mana and Mahi

Ricky Kuru starts his day at 4 a.m. and often works late into the evening — driven by responsibility to his family, team, and the business they’ve built together. For Ricky, Kuru Crushing isn’t just a job — it’s a generational legacy shaped by mana (respect and strength) and mahi (hard work). From managing quarry crews to keeping projects on track, he ensures everything is running smoothly before the day is done.

Humble Beginnings, Bold Moves

Founded in April 1997 by Ricky, his father Jack, his mother, and his wife, Kuru Contracting began with forestry and roading work. Over the years, it evolved into a multifaceted operation, expanding into civil works and quarrying. The company has always followed opportunity. “Sometimes that’s logging, sometimes it’s roading,” Ricky says. “Then we saw crushing — and we haven’t looked back.”

Launched seven years ago, the crushing division — Kuru Crushing — has played a key role in the company’s growth. Today, they manage eight to nine active quarries and continue to expand.

“The strength of our company is in the people we surround ourselves with.”

Rising from Adversity: The Real Strength of Leadership

The business hasn’t had an easy road. In the early 2000s, a shift in Gisborne’s forestry industry left many companies struggling. “We worked for three years practically for free,” Ricky recalls. “We just focused on paying wages and staying alive.”

More recently, Cyclone Gabrielle devastated the East Coast. With roads washed out and access cut off, Kuru Crushing stepped up to rebuild routes around the Hukuwai Bridge and Mangahauini Gorge. “We didn’t have the roading infrastructure, but people needed access — so we built it,” says Ricky. That effort became a catalyst for the growth of their civil division, rooted in service rather than strategy. “It was about showing up for our community,” he adds.

People and Purpose: The Core of Kuru Crushing

At the heart of Kuru Crushing is its people. “We’re only as good as our staff,” Ricky says. From quarry workers to traffic crews, the company thrives on strong relationships and shared values. Their annual Jack Kuru Kai-Comp — held in memory of Ricky’s late father — brings all divisions together for a weekend of competition and celebration, from hunting to food prep. “It builds culture. People talk about it all year,” says Ricky.

Key leaders like Paul Te Kira (PT) are central to operations. “Without PT and his crew, Kuru Crushing wouldn’t be where it is,” Ricky adds. “He runs a tight ship.”

“They’ve been more than a supplier.” says Ricky

Building a Legacy with Good Gear and Strong Relationships

Alongside people, the right equipment has been vital. Kuru Crushing runs a modern fleet, including Caterpillar machinery and Keestrack crushers like the B4 Jaw Crusher and K4 Screen, sourced from Equip2. “They’ve been more than a supplier,” says Ricky. “They’ve given us advice, support, and have become part of the family.” The partnership has helped the company scale sustainably and stay competitive.

A Vision Carved in Stone

Kuku Quarry stands as a symbol of the company’s grit. Once condemned, the site is now a thriving operation producing ag lime, AP65, AP40, riprap, and boulders — essential materials for forestry and infrastructure. “It took years to get consented,” Ricky says. “Now it’s one of our top producers.” But beyond supply, it’s about impact. “We’re here to feed families,” he says. “That’s what drives us.”

Leadership Lessons: Building a Lasting Legacy

Kuru Crushing is a story of long hours, loyal people, and lessons learned through hard times. For Ricky, lasting success isn’t about having the biggest machines — it’s about showing up, leading with values, and doing right by your team.

“If you’re thinking about getting into crushing or working with Equip2, give it a go,” says Ricky. “We did — and it’s worked out.”

Kuru Crushing continues to lead through mana and mahi, proving that strong values and steady leadership build businesses that last — and communities that thrive.

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Watch Ricky share insights into what has made them the success they are today.