| 121 T T Nick Walker Fitzroy, New Plymouth, Taranaki.. Getting repeat business is one of the best signs you’re doing something right as a builder. Being asked to rebuild the same house just two years after finishing it is another story. For Matiu Adams, founder of Adams Building and Construction, rebuilding the Autere Street home after it was badly damaged by fire has been both a challenge and an opportunity. A marquee build with New Zealand redwood cladding, the two-storey passive house was a spectacular addition to the sought-after beachside street in New Plymouth. Matiu says it was emotional at times having to demolish damaged parts of the house, but it was also a chance to improve on the initial build. It’s somewhat of a metaphor for the business itself, which is also entering a new stage. With the guidance of a business mentor, Matiu is slowly transitioning off the tools, and becoming more deliberate about the work he’s taking on. “I almost need to grow again and get to the point where I’m not on the tools at all,” he says. “I love being on the tools, but for the sake of the business it does need to move that way.” One emerging aspect of the business is its ability to build high-specification passive houses, often working with local architects Imagine Architecture. “I love the idea of what a passive house means and how it works for itself and the overriding benefits of that system,” Matiu says. “Energy efficiency is great for your health, and often they’re higher spec homes that are a really good challenge - that’s one of the things I love most about building.” Matiu says they’ve settled into some great subcontractor relationships, including with the likes of Pure Painting. “They’re an awesome crew, those guys. The quality of their work is outstanding, they can work to a schedule but they can also be there at the drop of a hat when it’s needed too.” Eight years after starting, the team has grown to four builders, including two apprentices. Matiu believes apprentices are essential, but his philosophy extends beyond filling a skills gap. His goal is to train apprentices into capable builders who can eventually establish their own businesses, ideally contracting back to Adams Building while they develop their own client base. Adams Building: building maturity BUILDING Adams Building and Construction Ltd “I like the idea of being able to make a difference to someone’s life,” he says. And then there’s the Hilux. Last year, Matiu proudly drove a 2010 model. He’s finally upgraded to a 2018 version - not for the bling, but because the old ute was 0800 999 404 info@imaginenz.com www.imaginenz.com Working nationwide Certified Passive House Designer Proudly supporting Adams Building and Construction Whether it’s interior or exterior painting, we bring expertise, precision, and a commitment to excellence to every project we take on. Specialist in high-quality residential and commercial 027 664 4154 hayden.whiting@livinglifestyles.co.nz falling apart. “Our mentor made me realise the state of the ute says something about the state of the business. The new one isn’t the flashest model because that’s not really my style. But it’s definitely an upgrade.” Though the business is on stronger foundations, Matiu says the original philosophy continues to guide them. “Our company isn’t about making millions of dollars. It’s about growing as an entity and being able to help people out. Watch this space...”
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