| 107 Ihaka Construction BUILDING Embracing Maori values Ihaka construction specialises in a range of projects, from high-end residential new builds to renovations and exteriors, including decks and fences, light commercial constructions, sheds and installations. T T Alexia Anderson There’s more to Ihaka Construction than new builds and renovations. The team specialises in building beautiful new homes and bringing existing ones up to today’s standards, all while embracing Maori values and heritage. Ihaka Construction was established in 2019 by Sam and Rosie Rutene, who are dedicated to providing top quality craftsmanship and attention to detail in every project. Ihaka, which means ‘to lead’ or ‘to guide’, reflects the company’s commitment to lead the way within the construction industry. Sam and Rosie support the development of Maori skills within the construction industry, and as a result have welcomed Maori apprentices onto their team. They currently have a workforce of eight, including three apprentices, one who is in their second year and two in their third year. The team specialises in a range of projects, “of all shapes and sizes”, from high-end residential new builds to renovations and exteriors, including decks and fences, light commercial constructions, sheds and installations. One of Ihaka Construction’s most recent projects was the renovation of an existing homestead. The team got rid of the existing kitchen, laundry and main bathroom, and reconfigured each area to better utilise space. They also reinforced structural beans, before full redecoration and installation of a designer kitchen, bar area, laundry and bathroom. “At Ihaka Construction, we understand that every project is unique, and we pride ourselves on customising each project to suit your individual style and requirements,” Sam said. The team’s work has since been recognised after the company was named a finalist in the 2023 Wairarapa Business Awards in the Pakihi Maori category. The award recognises Maori businesses that have made a significant contribution to the community. A report from the awards acknowledges Ihaka Construction’s placing as a finalist was a testament to its commitment to Maori values and heritage. “[We] didn’t win our category, but it was an awesome night celebrating local Wairarapa businesses,” Sam said. “[We were] stoked to be recognised as there was a lot of tough competition.” Sam has been in the construction business since the age of 16, when he started his career with MB Browns. His expertise in high-end residential new builds and renovations has been instrumental in building Ihaka Construction into the reputable business it is today. Five years on since establishing the business, Sam and his team complete projects “all over the lower North Island”, including one they started late last year, nearing the end of the Papakainga housing project, which consists of nine houses. When asked how the construction industry was tracking across Wairarapa, Sam said it varied, depending on who you talk to. “Land prices have stabilised, so I think we will see more new building coming back into the market, [and] we are undertaking a lot of renovation work, so that is going well.” And, 2024 looks set to be another good year for the team. “[We’ve got’ varied projects from residential new builds and renovations, to local iwi work, [and currently have] three to four sites going at any one time,” Sam said. While they might all be different, one thing will remain the same - Ihaka Construction’s personalised approach to each project. Proudly Supporting Ihaka Construction JEREMY CALKIN 022 169 1365 wairaraparoofingltd@gmail.com • New Builds • Renovations & Alterations • Switchboard Upgrades • Heat Pump & Heat Transfer Installation • Commercial & Residential Electrical Proudly Supporting Ihaka Construction info@engageelectrical.co.nz | 027 3105799 PROUDLY SUPPORTING IHAKA CONSTRUCTION 027 525 4004 @adamspaintingcontractors www.adamspaintingcontractors.com
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=