
Skip is Golden about his and NZ’s first 780hp Mack Super-Liner
Posted: 14-Mar-2025 |
Golden Contracting, a prominent player in New Zealand’s transport and aggregate supply sector, has reached a significant milestone with the acquisition of its first 780hp Mack Super-Liner, marking the debut of this model in the New Zealand market. This truck combines unmatched durability, advanced technology, and the brand’s hallmark reliability, serving as a testament to both business acumen and passion for excellence in heavy machinery .
Mark "Skip" Golden, owner of Golden Contracting, celebrated the arrival of the Super-Liner at Brisbane HQ on March 3rd, coinciding with his 25th anniversary in the industry. Skip’s dedication to Mack trucks, which dates back to 2015 when he purchased his first Mack Trident, stems from their unmatched performance, strong build, and cost-effectiveness. The Trident, for example, completed 550,000 km at a much lower mid-life cost compared to market expectations, solidifying Mack’s leading edge in terms of cents-per-kilometer efficiency over the long haul.
The new 780hp Super-Liner boasts the powerful Euro 6 engine, providing superior fuel efficiency and optional high-performance power. While Skip admits the fleet doesn’t strictly need the additional horsepower, he emphasizes its contribution to better resilience during challenging climbs and off-road terrain. The truck’s mDRIVE automated transmission stands out for its precision and smooth shifting, eliminating driver fatigue on rugged roads. “Why get fatigued driving when the mDRIVE can just drive you around, and with better fuel efficiency?” Skip remarks, highlighting the system’s intuitive capabilities in harsh environments .
Golden Contracting is no stranger to tough conditions, as its fleet operates in forestry skid-sites, farm roads, and rugged terrains across the North Island. The Macks’ robust build ensures reliable performance, high torque, and optimal traction under these strenuous conditions. Skip’s relationship with Mack extends beyond the trucks themselves; he describes being part of the “Mack family” as a unique experience enriched by strong camaraderie, akin to sports teams like rugby.
Tony O’Connell, Vice President of Mack Trucks Australia, and Scott Holt, General Manager of MTD, have emphasized the importance of this collaboration, underscoring the quality and innovation Mack brings to their clients. This expansion into New Zealand with the 780hp Super-Liner marks another pivotal step for the brand as they continue to serve companies like Golden Contracting, which depends on its mixed fleet for robust and varied operations. “The Mack is the ideal truck for me,” says Skip, solidifying his belief in the brand’s ability to consistently deliver results.
Golden Contracting’s long-standing partnership with Mack Trucks is a reflection of its commitment to reliability, operational efficiency, and a shared vision with its team. As the business continues to expand, the new Super-Liner, with its commemorative big hood and outstanding performance, symbolizes the strides Golden Contracting has made in the transport and cartage industry. Skip proudly notes, “You only get one shot at the game, and Mack is a big part of us getting it right”.