Love and Business: The Leutharts Thrive in Timber Industry

A remarkable partnership has driven the success of TimberCo, a prominent timber business in New Plymouth, New Zealand. Founded in June 1999 by married couple Dave and Cheryl Leuthart, the company has grown from a modest operation into a significant player in the region’s timber market, largely due to their complementary skills and a commitment to keeping work and home life separate.

The Leutharts’ journey began 36 years ago when they first met at a surf lifesaving event on Mt Maunganui. Their relationship blossomed from a long-distance romance, which eventually saw Cheryl, originally from Mt Maunganui, relocating to New Plymouth in the late 1980s. They initially worked together on Dave’s family dairy farm, where Cheryl learned the ropes with guidance from Dave.

Their shared passion for surf lifesaving led them to become part of the first team in New Zealand to navigate the country in an inflatable rescue boat, an adventure that solidified their bond. Shortly after this milestone, they married and were ready to embark on a new chapter in their lives.

The turning point came when they saw an advertisement in the Taranaki Daily News for a timber yard for sale. Seizing the opportunity, they purchased the business from former Olympic boxer Pat Ryan. “We wanted to stay in New Plymouth, so we bought the timber yard instead,” Dave explained. Initially, Ryan was set to assist with the transition for one year but ended up working alongside the Leutharts for an additional 12 years.

Over the past 26 years, the business has relocated multiple times, moving from Manadon Street to Bulkeley Terrace, and finally settling at its current location on Sunley Street. The couple attributes their success to a clear division of labor. Cheryl manages the administrative side, including accounts and human resources, while Dave oversees orders and the operational team, which consists of around 17 employees.

“I couldn’t tell you the length of any timber,” Cheryl noted, emphasizing their distinct roles. This separation has allowed them to maintain their professional partnership without the complications that often arise from working too closely together. Dave starts his day at 5:30 a.m., while Cheryl arrives by 7:00 a.m. They do not typically commute to work together, as David remarked, “We’re not like some couples who wake up and have a cuppa and a chat.”

The couple maintains that setting boundaries has been crucial for both their business and marriage. They enjoy their independence during work hours, which has contributed to their longevity as a couple. David actively participates in the community as the chair of the board of trustees at Francis Douglas Memorial College and is also involved with Taranaki Cricket. Meanwhile, Cheryl pursues her passion for running, having completed the New York Marathon and participated in events around the base of Mt Kilimanjaro. She has also served on the board of Sport Taranaki and remains active in local sports awards.

Despite their successes, the Leutharts faced challenges when they first acquired TimberCo. Cheryl admitted they were “naive” about the intricacies of running a business. Early on, they underestimated cash flow issues and the complexities of managing accounts. They learned to navigate financial pressures, including a long-term commitment with Dave’s parents as guarantors and the need to manage bank overdrafts.

Their resilience has been tested over the years, particularly during cyclical downturns in the building industry. Interestingly, the business experienced a surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many people turned to DIY projects. “It was two of our best years,” David noted, highlighting TimberCo’s role as an essential service during that time.

Now in their early 60s and residing in a modern home in central New Plymouth, the Leutharts are contemplating retirement. Travel aspirations are on the horizon, with Cheryl expressing a desire to retire while they still have the energy to explore the world. “A lot of people retire because they have to. We want to while we can,” she said.

Their story exemplifies how a strong partnership, clear boundaries, and adaptability can lead to enduring success in both business and life. For those interested in sharing their own stories, Will Johnston can be contacted at [email protected].