By Simon Teahan
These two Western Stars run by Sand 'n' Stone Bulk Haulage Ltd make for a great sight even in Auckland's notorious winter weather. They both feature 6" cut back exhausts, large drop visors, Texas styled square 18" bumpers with plate, extensive chequer plating and great looking gray paint and graphics.
The trucks were part of an order of Western Stars brought over for the Alexander Group (which we featured in 2006 - see here) but were surplus to requirement, hence the almost identical setup. The trucks were white when purchased by Sand 'n Stone but now wear a colour which is used on Range Rover vehicles.
The stylized "W" on the bonnets represents Wilson Tunnelling which the two trucks are contracted to haul concrete sections for. Each section makes up a 3.7m diameter slice of a 3km long tunnel which is being put in under Hobson Bay, replacing the old sewer which currently runs above ground across the Bay. Both trucks can be seen travelling in between South Auckland, where the concrete sections are manufactured and Auckland city.
The CAT powered Stars are driven by Brian and Hutch who have a number of years association with J & H Bryant (a major stake holder in Sand 'n' Stone Bulk Haulage Ltd). They keep the trucks and the Roadmaster manufactured trailers in immaculate condition. Thanks to them and Sean for their time.
