| 117 T T Sue Russell Builder values Kiwi skill sets Norwest Build has completed a wide variety of stunning projects in Auckland. Norwest Build Over the years, Kyle Campbell has gathered a diverse range of experiences on his building journey – including an influential stint in San Francisco that significantly broadened his perspective on construction methodologies. That opportunity arose somewhat serendipitously. Kyle’s father, John, had constructed a home for a client in Browns Bay, north Auckland. When that client won the American Green Card Lottery, he invited John and Kyle to relocate and work on an extensive home renovation project in the United States. “Certain construction practices are approached quite differently over there – for instance, all parts of the construction of the home are segmented, such as foundations, framing, cladding, etc.,” says Kyle. “That was my first opportunity to see just how much value Kiwi builders add to projects. In New Zealand, builders are often responsible for the entire process – from set out to handover – and being able to build a home from start to finish is such a valuable and rewarding skillset. It really reinforced for me the strength, adaptability, and craftsmanship of our building industry back home.” Upon returning to New Zealand, Kyle joined Barton Builders, a highly regarded firm and the recipient of multiple Master Builders House of the Year Awards. “When Bruce [of Barton Builders] decided to retire, it happened to align with a point where I felt ready to start my own building company,” Kyle says. “Having spent years building high-end homes with my father and the team at Barton Builders, as well as gaining valuable overseas experience, it just felt like the natural next step.” Kyle also served part-time in the New Zealand Army, dedicating 22 years to the Defence Force, including serving overseas, an experience he says enriched his life in countless ways. His time in the army has also provided many skills essential to running a successful building business. Kyle acknowledges the challenges that come with working in a fluctuating construction market, but his passion for building remains unwavering. He also credits much of Norwest Build’s success to the strength and cohesion of his team. The Norwest Build team comprises five members, including Kyle. One apprentice is nearing the end of their training, while another has recently joined. BUILDING “Our current team and experience provides a lot of flexibility, and also puts us in a good position to grow when required. Our work is primarily focused in the central, northern, and western areas of Auckland. While residential construction is our mainstay, we’ve also completed some light commercial projects, which have been both rewarding and stimulating,” Kyle says. Recently, the team has been involved in the challenging and meaningful restoration of a heritage-listed church on Shelley Beach Road. The historic structure was extensively damaged by fire in 2020, including the destruction of its steeple and interior. “It’s a privilege to work on this project. The church holds deep significance for the local community, and being part of its restoration after such a devastating event has been incredibly fulfilling,” Kyle says. While making good progress, the team has had to navigate uncertainties about the full extent of the damage, and the necessary repairs. The first stage of the work was mainly decorative on the inside, giving the team a chance to showcase their workmanship. The upcoming repair to the steeple will be a rebuild, with work from the foundations up. Running a building company, while remaining hands-on, presents a demanding schedule for Kyle. “I spend a lot of time ensuring the team has everything they need on-site, but I also dedicate at least one day each week to business development – pricing, planning, and sourcing new projects,” he says. Kyle recalls wise advice from Bruce when he first launched Norwest Build: “Don’t take on more than you can personally vouch for.” “That really stuck with me. I love being on the tools – that’s why I got into this industry in the first place.” Despite the recent volatility in the economic landscape, Kyle remains optimistic about the future of Norwest Build. “In challenging times like these, you just have to knuckle down, keep looking for new opportunities, and consistently deliver work you’re proud of. That’s the philosophy I stick to.” “In challenging times like these, you just have to knuckle down, keep looking for new opportunities, and consistently deliver work you’re proud of.” OUR DIFFERENCE? OPERATED BY NZ BUILDERS WITH 50 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE SCAFFOLD PROPPING SHRINK WRAP Get in Touch info@cityscaffold.co.nz Tel: 021 489556 www.cityscaffold.co.nz Residential New Builds | Additions and Alterations | Renovations | Light Commercial Builds | Early Contractor Involvement Kyle Campbell: 021 025 76 838 kyle@norwestbuild.co.nz www.norwestbuild.co.nz Creating better, together. PRINT. SIGNAGE. PACKAGING. LABELS. MERCHANDISE. DESIGN. kaleprint.co.nz
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