Clarrie Beardsmore is the founder of Prime Explosives. He has over 40 years’ experience in the mining and quarrying industry in the Asia-Pacific region.

Clarrie’s explosives experience started with Du Pont (NZ) Ltd as the New Zealand Technical Representative responsible for all operations throughout New Zealand. He spent four years with Du Pont (NZ) Ltd as the New Zealand Technical Representative. He moved on to be the Technical Representative responsible for South Australia, Victoria and the Northern Territory. During this time he introduced the Detaline® system to Readymix South Australia. He was also involved in the first up-hole firing at the Roxby Downs Uranium Mine in South Australia where he conducted underground courses for the blast crews.

Over a period of three years, Clarrie designed and loaded four mass blasts for Peko Wallsend at their Tennant Creek operations. In 1988 he was promoted to Regional Manager of South Australia, Northern Territory and Tasmania .

In 1990 he was transferred to Western Australia as Regional Manager for Western Australia as well as the Northern Territory . He was responsible for all marketing of Ammonium Nitrate in excess of 115,000 tonne to the iron ore mines in the Pilbara and the gold and nickel operations in and around Kalgoorlie, Western Australia. During this time he secured all Dominion Mining operations in Western Australia and Northern Territory in 1991.

In 1992 Clarrie returned to New Zealand as the New Zealand Manager, based in Tauranga. He established Prime Explosives in 1993. The success we have enjoyed is largely due to Clarrie’s pro-active hands on training. He has passed on his passion and commitment to ensuring high quality product as well as service to his dedicated staff in order to ensure client satisfaction.

Prime Explosives operates throughout New Zealand as well as the Pacific Islands. Head office is located in Tauranga.

The team is made up of experienced staff throughout the North and South Islands. There are operational facilities in Reefton – South Island and Whangarei – North Island. The manufacturing plant is located in the North Island which produces a full range of explosives products. There are also two sites in Fiji. On the main Island of Viti Levu as well as on the second largest Island of Venua Levu.

Excellent communication between all departments has led to continual improvements in processes. This creates cost efficiencies and increased productivity as well as technical knowledge. Our team is experienced for a variety of sites, climates and geology within NZ quarries as well as mines including extensive experience working with coal overburden.

We have fully licensed drivers as well as strong relationships with local freight companies to deliver explosive products to you. If you require international shipping we are happy to work with you and find a cost-effective transport option.

• Clarrie Beardsmore / Founder & Managing Director
• Craig McBride / South Island Manager
• David Crighton / North Island Manager
• Finn Stephenson / Plant Manager