Construction company placed in liquidation; inquiry forthcoming: liquidator

AN Oamaru construction company has been placed in liquidation and an investigation into its operations is forthcoming, one of the liquidators appointed to handle the process has confirmed.

Harper Enterprises (2007) Ltd, which operated under the name CHK Homes, was placed in liquidation on April 17 by a special shareholders’ resolution.

The company’s profile on the New Zealand Companies Office register lists Christopher and Karen Harper, of Oamaru, as its directors and joint shareholders.

Geoff Brown and Lynda Smart, of Rodgers Reidy Chartered Accountants, which has offices in Auckland and Christchurch, have been appointed liquidators.

In response to questions from the Otago Daily Times, Mr Brown said construction was under way on some homes when the resolution to go into liquidation was made.

‘‘We are aware that the company was building five homes for customers and we are working through each of these builds to establish the way forward (assessing the work done and what is required to complete the builds). We will contact these customers directly once this analysis is complete. I understand that these customers have insurance with certified builders, so if the company is unable to complete the builds, this insurance should respond.’’

While the number of creditors and the sum they were owed were yet to be confirmed, there were ‘‘a number’’ of secured, unsecured and preferential creditors, he said.

An initial report will be sent to all creditors tomorrow, which will provide more information on the company’s situation and the liquidation process, and a claim form.

Mr Brown said the liquidators would also ‘‘investigate how the company was run and whether or not there are any claims against the directors for breaches of legislation’’.