| 21 T T Sue Russell Enjoying the challenges of exciting industry Ashleigh Sando: It can only be a good thing for the future of construction that those choosing careers come from a diverse array of experiences.” Below, Engas is the main-contractor on a significant commercial/apartment 8-storey development at 1 Cook Street, Hamilton East. Engas Developments For Engas Development’s commercial manager Ashleigh Sando, the property industry is all about making a positive difference. A trained quantity surveyor, Ashleigh was a finalist in the Women in Property category at this year’s Central Region People in Property Awards. Engas Developments was established in Hamilton in 2018, by brothers Blair and Steve Currie and Shane Quintus, who saw a niche in the market for a nimble, responsive, vertically integrated construction company, that could deliver investors a smart and efficient development model. Specialising in large-scale projects and high-end builds, the company is making a real contribution to the changing landscape of property development in New Zealand’s fastest growing city. Ashleigh has been with the company since 2024. “When I finished university I wasn’t really sure what I would do and I found myself drawn to the systems and detail that underpin being a QS. “You’re constantly dealing with evolving technologies, materials and regulatory changes around building and I find it very engaging work.” Ashleigh says the team understand they’re fortunate to be very busy at the moment, as main-contractor on a significant commercial/ apartment 8-storey development at 1 Cook Street, Hamilton East well underway. “We’ll be handing this over in 2026. We’ve engaged our own carpenters on this project which has gone very well and we’re already well underway with the design phase of our next build, a wonderful 4-storey apartment block on an iconic plot of land close to Waikato River and the very popular Hamilton East suburb in the centre of the city.” That project, called Eastbank, is unique for an inner city development, dedicated only to apartment living, rather than the usual blend of lower level commercial spaces. Designed by highly-respected Hamilton architects Edwards White, Eastbank offers 30 apartments straddling 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms across four levels, with secure basement carparking. PROPERTY INDUSTRY Each apartment has been thoughtfully planned offering a unique perspective on city living and wonderful views with easy access to river walks and Hamilton East’s vibrant commercial precinct. Ashleigh says being named a finalist in the People in Property Awards, hosted by the NZ Property Council, was a huge honour. “They put on a fantastic evening and its an opportunity for all involved in the property industry to mix and mingle. “There’s been a lot of pain out their in our sector and the Property Council are very much their around advocacy and support, creating forums and events where we can engage and learn.” Coming from a commercial background, Ashleigh says, has opened up opportunities for Engas Developments to engage in this sector more. “While historically we’ve been more focused on developing residential high-end and mixeduse projects, we’re now involved also in some exciting commercial work.” Reflecting back on her career Ashleigh says its really heartening to see more women engaged in the construction industry at all levels, including on the tools. “Industry initiatives, such as NAWIC, the National Association for Women in Construction offer a nurturing and collaborative space, encouraging of all women to take up roles in the industry. “It can only be a good thing for the future of construction that those choosing careers come from a diverse array of experiences.” As for 2026, Ashleigh says the team at Engas Developments are looking forward to some well-earned down time over Christmas, before rolling up their sleeves and getting on with the business of fine property development. “While historically we’ve been more focused on developing residential high-end and mixed-use projects, we’re now involved also in some exciting commercial work.” Readymix Concrete in Hamilton for all Projects Proudly supporting Engas Developments 021 654 912 • tom@wrmc.co.nz • www.wrmc.co.nz 14 Mexted Place, Riverlea, Hamilton
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