Gray moves out of relocations

Greytown's Pete Gray is moving on from the house relocation business after more than 40 years in the industry - and he's leaving his hydraulic trailers behind.

Mr Gray, of Gray Brothers Contractors, is retiring after ongoing health problems and the recent death of his partner.

The business was the only house moving business based in the region, and also does concreting as well.

Mr Gray's claim to fame is developing the hydraulic trailer, which made it easier to move the houses - especially as the roads are becoming more cluttered.

"We played with it until it worked," he said.

"They're putting more obstacles in the road every day."

Brittons House Movers have bought both of Mr Gary's hydraulic trailers to continue using them.

Mr Gray has helped moved houses from as far as Auckland to Masterton, and has navigated some of the tricker routes such as the Saddle Rd to Castlepoint.

He's also helped move buildings over the Rimutaka Hill and the Waiohine River.

Over his time, Mr Gray has built up an extensive knowledge of the region and seen many changes in the industry - especially with technology.

A1 Homes Wairarapa have been using Mr Gray's company to move their houses for years.

Their showhome in Greytown was moved to Masterton on Monday, while Mr Gray was on site.

Paul Southey, of A1 Homes Wairarapa, said it will be a shame to see one of the best contractors in town shut up shop.

"They're just a wealth of knowledge and that's just because of time and experience," he said.