The 1940s marked a defining decade of expansion for McKay, shaped by both the impact of World War II and New Zealand’s rapid post-war transformation. As the country mobilised for war, many skilled tradesmen enlisted, creating new opportunities for those able to keep essential services operating. In this environment, McKay took its first major step beyond Dargaville, opening a branch on Vine Street in Whangārei after purchasing an electrical business from Nev Barnaby, who sold the company as he joined the Armed Forces.

On the 23rd of December 1943, McKay Electrical Whangārei was formally registered as a separate company, reflecting the growing scale and geographic reach of the business. The new branch was managed by Peter Walker, a former McKay apprentice and wartime Spitfire pilot.

In January 1944, 14-year-old Joe Faithfull famously approached McKay Electrical in Dargaville seeking work. Turned away for being too young, he returned a week later on his 15th birthday and was given a job earning 15 shillings a week. Joe began in the radio room before moving into electrical contracting and completing his apprenticeship. By 1947, he had qualified as an Electrical Wireman and was promoted to Foreman, managing returned servicemen employed by McKay — a reflection of the business’s role in supporting veterans re-entering the workforce.

As the war ended and New Zealand entered a period of reconstruction, McKay expanded further, opening branches in Kaikohe and Kaitaia. This growth aligned closely with national trends. The Rehabilitation Act of 1941 encouraged returning soldiers back into employment and home ownership, driving a surge in state house construction and infrastructure development. With a nationwide shortage of skilled labour, demand for electricians soared, and apprenticeships became a highly valued pathway into stable careers.

The post-war economic boom also transformed household life. As more families gained access to electricity, demand for appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators and radios increased rapidly. McKay was well positioned to meet this need, combining electrical contracting with retail and long-term commercial relationships, including a major contract with New Zealand Window Glass Limited secured by Joe Faithfull.

KEY LEADERSHIP OF THE DECADE

Tom McKay

Role:

Director

Start :

1936

End:

1982

Tom McKay was the founder of McKay Limited, a pioneering entrepreneur whose resilience, leadership and vision built the foundations of one of New Zealand’s most enduring electrical contracting businesses.

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