Our story
Airlab stands at the intersection of experience and innovation
Airlab began as Project Services in 1978, founded by Mike Dane who worked from his home providing drafting, project documentation, and commissioning for the HVAC construction industry. As the company grew, its focus sharpened on commissioning, and in 2005 it was renamed Airlab. Since then, we’ve expanded across the country opening offices in Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin, supporting iconic builds like Te Papa and leading work during Christchurch’s rebuild.
The 2008 acquisition of Airpro Scientific launched our indoor environment certification arm, cementing our status as New Zealand’s largest IANZ-accredited indoor air specialist. Today, Airlab stands at the intersection of experience and innovation, trusted to deliver compliance and comfort in the country’s most important buildings.
Milestones in our journey
1978
Started as Project Services by Mike Dane
1991
Relocated to Druces Road, Manukau
1992
Opened Wellington Branch/Office
2005
Rebranded as Airlab
2005
Relocated to Plunket Avenue, Manukau
2008
Acquired Airpro Scientific
2011
Chris Burrows & Carl D’Rose join Mike as Airlab Directors
2013
Opened Christchurch Branch/Office
2021
Opened Dunedin Branch/Office
2023
Jason Capstick appointed as General Manager
2024
Auckland head Office relocates to Ellerslie
2025
Brand update
From Side Hustle to Industry Benchmark
In 1978, at the age of 25, I made the decision to leave my full-time engineering role and turn what had started as after-hours technical work into a business of my own. There wasn’t a grand vision - just a desire to take on more meaningful work and earn more than what a salary offered. With few contractors at the time having technical staff, and commissioning still relatively new in New Zealand, I saw an opportunity to bridge the gap with my HVAC background and hands-on experience.
I named the business Project Services Ltd - not particularly imaginative, but it reflected what I was doing at the time: offering technical services across various projects. One of my first major commissioning jobs was the NZI Centre in Manukau, followed by extensive work at Marsden Point, and years later, the Auckland City Hospital - projects I still consider career highlights.
Over the years, I’ve seen the industry evolve dramatically - from analog to digital tools, and shorter construction timeframes. What hasn’t changed is the importance of doing things properly. I’ve always believed in operating with integrity - doing what’s right, not just what’s legal, and treating people fairly.
Looking back, I’m proud that Airlab is still going strong more than 45 years later, known across New Zealand as the benchmark for commissioning.
Mike Dane
Founder
