About Dobson + Sons Canvas
Darryl. Jenny. Zane.
Darryl and Jenny Dobson are the current owners and operators of this canvas fabrication business. This business originated from J. M. Dobson Motor Trimmers and Canvas Workers which was started over 70 years ago by Darryl’s father Jack.
Jack, who has since passed away, started the business in Hawera, New Zealand in 1949 after serving time as a fabricator in World War II.
After significant growth of the business, Darryl and Jenny relocated to New Plymouth in 2005 and they continue to serve the entire Taranaki region. Their eldest son Zane works in the shop and is continuing with the family trade. Darryl and the team in the shop, design, repair and manufacture new, quality canvas products with the latest technology and with excellent client service.
Meet The Team
Jenny
Owner/Administration
Jenny has overseen the overall running of the business for the past 35 years. She deals with the management and administration side of the business to ensure the team delivers every time. She is also the owner and operator of Dobson’s Marquee and Party Hire.
Darryl
Owner/Tradesman
Darryl has over 45 years‘ experience in the industry. He is an award-winning tradesman who has also mentored many people in the industry over the years. He knows how to craft that special quality item that you need to do the job.
Zane
Shop Manager/Tradesman
Zane is a highly skilled tradesman who is currently completing his canvas trade training under the supervision of Darryl. Zane has recently joined the team after successfully managing large sheep and beef farms in the wider Taranaki region.
Gemma
Design/Marketing
Gemma brings the energy, critique and design/marketing knowledge to the Dobson’s team. She owns and operates her own successful business but continues to collaborate with the family.
Shady
Shop Dog
Shady is a recent addition to the team. She spends her time between Zane’s farm and the shop. You will see her on weekdays mostly chilling out on her bean bag.
Jack
Jack Manson Dobson was the founder of the business and he continues to be an inspiration for the ethos of the company. Jack was an innovator of his time. He instilled his qualities in Darryl who now passes these on to the team.
Our History
1949
In 1949, Jack Dobson started J. M. Dobson Motor Trimmers and Canvas Workers in Hāwera, New Zealand after serving time as a fabricator in World War II.
Today
Today, the business is forever growing in order to produce new, quality products. We have a staff of highly skilled tradesmen who can offer you a fair price for an excellent job. We have a large, modern workshop, with the latest technology. Every facet of the business has its own area. Some of the key features are our 12m lay up benches which allow us to operate various types of welding machines and sewing machines in a clean area.
Awards
Dobsons Son + Canvas has been fortunate to be recognised for many awards over the years. The most recent recognition of the quality of our work was in the 2016 Outdoor Fabric Products Association of New Zealand Award. We were awarded best in Recreation and Blinds and Screens categories. We thank the clients whose projects were included in these awards.