Our Story

Pernell Turner, the founder and Operations Manager of CleanStart, brings nearly two decades of experience in rope access and building maintenance to the company. Pernell’s journey began in 2005 while working for a scaffolding company in the Waikato region. After two years of scaffolding work, the company expanded into rope access, offering in-house training to its existing team. Pernell was one of the first to take on this new challenge, earning his rope access qualification and embarking on what would become a dynamic and varied career. Pernell’s early work in rope access included crack inspections and maintenance inside Fonterra dairy factory silos during factory shuts. This specialised work required expertise in scaffolding, confined space entry, and meticulous planning to execute tasks safely and efficiently. After moving to Auckland City, Pernell expanded his skillset, taking on high-rise building maintenance projects such as painting, crack and leak repair, anchor installations, and high-rise window cleaning in Auckland. His experience also includes geotechnical work, safety line installations, swinging stage setups, and even mine shaft operations involving explosives.

An IRATA Level 3 operator, Pernell is highly skilled in managing technical and complex rope access operations. His expertise spans building washing in Auckland, water blasting, antenna installation, and a range of specialized height-related tasks. Over the years, Pernell has adapted to the evolving safety standards in rope access, combining the “old-school” work ethic he began with in 2005 with the professionalism and modern safety protocols of today.

As Operations Manager, Pernell oversees every aspect of CleanStart’s operations, ensuring the team is prepared for each job. His responsibilities include coordinating logistics, managing health and safety protocols, communicating with clients and building managers, and ensuring all equipment is ready and compliant. Pernell’s leadership goes beyond planning; he works hands-on with his team on-site, setting the pace and leading by example. This approach allows him to address complications and disruptions head-on, ensuring that jobs run smoothly and efficiently. Pernell believes that CleanStart’s size is one of its greatest strengths. As a small business, the team can adapt quickly to challenges, resolve issues without delay, and maintain close communication with clients. Being present on the job ensures that Pernell stays connected with the work and provides the leadership necessary to deliver high-quality results.

Outside of CleanStart, Pernell enjoys spending time with his family and pursuing a variety of hobbies that keep him active and inspired. He has a passion for fishing, diving, and camping, as well as playing music, particularly guitar and singing. Exercise and weight training are important parts of his routine, and he also enjoys trekking and climbing mountains—activities he hopes to do more of in the future.

Pernell is a football fan, proudly supporting both Manchester City and Auckland City FC. Surfing and exploring the outdoors are other activities that bring balance to his life outside of work.

Pernell’s vision for CleanStart is to remain in what he calls “the sweet spot” of the rope access industry. Having observed other businesses struggle with growth, Pernell is focused on maintaining the ideal balance for his team and clients. Rope access work often requires a team of
at least two or three technicians, and ensuring a steady flow of work to keep the team fully employed can be a challenge for smaller companies. On the other hand, scaling up to a larger operation comes with increased overhead, management demands, and the risk of losing the personal touch that sets CleanStart apart.

Pernell’s goal is to keep CleanStart at a size where the team remains efficient, fully employed, and well-supported. This allows him to stay closely involved with every project, whether managing logistics or working on the tools. Maintaining this balance not only ensures the business runs smoothly but also keeps the stress and complications of large-scale growth at bay. Looking to the future, Pernell envisions CleanStart as a small but highly experienced team, capable of making decisions on the job with confidence and efficiency. His aim is for CleanStart to be a well-run, adaptable business that delivers top-quality results for every rope access project, from exterior building maintenance to roof leak repairs in Auckland.

Devon Masey is a key member of the CleanStart team, serving as a dedicated and skilled Rope Access Technician. Joining CleanStart straight out of school, Devon has spent the past two years honing his skills and building experience in the rope access industry. As a Level 1 IRATA Qualified Rope Access Technician, Devon approaches every task with professionalism, safety, and a willingness to learn, making him an invaluable asset to the company.

Devon’s journey into rope access began with CleanStart, where he joined as a trainee immediately after leaving school. Over the past two years, he has developed his skills across a range of tasks, including window cleaning, building washing in Auckland, leak repairs, and painting. Working closely with the team, Devon has grown into a confident and capable technician, excelling in high-access work. His dedication and eagerness to learn have helped him gain valuable experience in
the industry at a young age.

Devon is a standout team member thanks to his reliability, work ethic, and positive attitude. Respectful and honest by nature, he consistently delivers high-quality work, whether he’s tackling high-rise window cleaning or washing building exteriors. Devon’s strengths lie in building washing and window cleaning, where his attention to detail and organized approach shine. His ability to listen well to instructions, remain confident yet cautious at heights, and carry out tasks safely makes him an integral part of CleanStart’s success.

Outside of work, Devon is passionate about fishing, diving, and exploring the outdoors. He enjoys four-wheel driving and is a fan of a wide range of sports, including rugby, cricket, and Formula One racing. His love for adventure and the outdoors aligns perfectly with the challenges and excitement of rope access work, adding to his enthusiasm for the job.

Devon’s goals include continuing to gain experience and developing his skills further within the industry. While he envisions the possibility of one day running his own business, he also values the career opportunities CleanStart offers and sees the company as a strong foundation to
support his personal and professional growth.

As Devon continues to mature and build on his problem-solving and communication skills, he is poised to become highly valued within the rope access industry. Despite his young age, he demonstrates a level of commitment and capability that is beyond his years, making him a technician in demand wherever his career takes him.

At just 19 years old, Devon brings a fresh perspective and energy to the CleanStart team. His youth and enthusiasm add a unique dynamic to the workplace, keeping things lively and interesting. As he continues to grow and develop within the industry, Devon’s potential is limitless,
and he remains an essential part of CleanStart’s ongoing success.

Dalton Palffy is one of CleanStart’s dedicated Rope Access Technicians, known for his calm, approachable nature and exceptional work ethic. Joining the team six months ago, Dalton quickly adapted to the demands of the rope access industry. With an IRATA Level 1 qualification, Dalton has already worked on a variety of projects, including window cleaning, building washing, leak repairs, and painting. His focus on safety, combined with his meticulous attention to detail, makes him a valued member of the CleanStart team.

Before joining CleanStart, Dalton worked in the building industry. When work opportunities began to dry up, he was approached by Pernell Turner with the chance to enter the exciting field of rope access. Seeing the potential for growth and variety in the industry, Dalton took on the challenge, gaining his IRATA Level 1 qualification and starting a new chapter in his career. Since joining CleanStart, Dalton has consistently demonstrated his commitment to safety, professionalism, and quality work. Whether it’s tackling high-rise building washing in Auckland or carefully rigging ropes for a complex project, Dalton approaches each task with dedication and precision.

Dalton’s calm and relaxed nature is one of his greatest strengths, allowing him to work efficiently and with focus, even under pressure. His attention to detail is particularly evident in his approach to rigging ropes. Dalton meticulously checks angles, backups, and safety measures, ensuring that every rigging setup is of the highest standard. This dedication to safety not only protects the team but also gives clients peace of mind.

Physically strong and fit, Dalton excels at tasks that require endurance and exertion. From setting up and retrieving heavy ropes and hoses to handling equipment like water blasters and tanks, he brings a level of strength and stamina that allows him to work tirelessly from start to finish. Dalton’s positive attitude ensures that no challenge is too great, and his approachable demeanor makes him easy to work with and a great teammate.

Outside of his work at CleanStart, Dalton enjoys spending time in the outdoors, gaming, and exploring the trails with his four-wheel drive. He is passionate about fitness, regularly going to the gym and lifting weights to stay in top physical condition. His love for an active lifestyle mirrors the physical demands of his work, and his adventurous side keeps him engaged and motivated.

Dalton’s goals in the rope access industry are rooted in growth and learning. He is determined to continue gaining experience, building confidence, and refining his skills to become a trusted and knowledgeable professional in the field. As he progresses, Dalton aims to be a technician that colleagues and clients alike can rely on for expert advice and exceptional work. In the long term, Dalton envisions himself becoming a go-to resource within the rope access services industry, recognized for his expertise and ability to handle complex projects with
confidence. While his quiet and laid-back demeanor may give an impression of detachment, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Dalton is hardworking, approachable, and always ready to engage with others, making him a key part of the CleanStart team.

Dalton Palffy’s contributions to CleanStart go beyond his technical skills. His calm, positive energy adds balance to the team, and his methodical approach ensures that every project is carried out safely and efficiently. Whether working on high-rise window cleaning in Auckland, handling leak repairs, or tackling a demanding building washing job, Dalton brings reliability, strength, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

With his potential and drive, Dalton is not just a skilled technician—he is a growing force in the rope access industry. CleanStart is proud to have him on the team, and his future in the industry is as bright as his work ethic is strong.