| 67 PlaceMakers Waiheke Dulux Mt Hutt • High density • Exceptional strength and durability • Delamination resistant • Strong thermal and acoustic performance ETERPAN® has Declare Certification, recognised in Green Star Design & Build projects. Manufactured using Flow-On Technology, ETERPAN® fibre cement board delivers: Only from Fibre Cement Solutions Contact us on: 09 9000 327 or visit us at fibrecementsolutions.co.nz Strength. Performance. Sustainability. Wall featured ETERPAN® Coastal Series ‘Mangawhai’ Dione Denize - Director 0274 5263 25 waiheke.elevate@gmail.com We are a team of painters based on Waiheke Island. Our projects range from large scale to modest, new build to restoration, standard to specialty finishes... We handle every detail with care to bring your vision to life. T T Kelly Deeks Handling Island challenges The business employs around 60 staff, all based on the island, and operates seven days a week to support both builders and residents. PlaceMakers Waiheke is operating at the sharp end of one of New Zealand’s most unique building environments, where complex logistics, steep terrain and limited access mean no two projects are ever straightforward. From navigating ferry schedules to delivering materials up narrow, winding driveways, construction on the island demands careful planning and strong local know how. For PlaceMakers Waiheke joint venture operator Daryn Banks, that complexity shapes how the business supports builders across the region. “With the Auckland market currently being extremely challenging, we’ve seen more mainland builders coming over looking for work, and they often arrive with their own suppliers,” Daryn says. “Our role is to provide another option and support them as they get established.” That support quickly becomes relied upon. Building on Waiheke is markedly different to the mainland, with steep sites, restricted access, and tight working areas requiring both specialist equipment and experienced operators. “It takes about a year to really understand the difference,” Daryn says. “You’re often putting vehicles into all wheel drive and delivering materials up extremely steep driveways where you’re only a metre away from disaster. That local experience is invaluable.” For builders new to the island, the learning curve can be steep. Ferry dependent supply chains, limited on site storage, and carefully timed deliveries all add complexity that can impact the build programme and add cost. “It’s not just about supplying materials, it’s about helping builders understand how to work efficiently and safely in this environment,” Daryn says. Waiheke’s construction sector spans everything from small bach renovations to $20 million architectural homes and everything in between. Our local builders have extensive experience gained from delivering many highend projects. “There’s a very high level of local capability here,” Daryn says. “Our builders bring their can-do attitude and adapt it to suit the conditions.” Alongside its trade focus, PlaceMakers Waiheke has built a strong reputation for community involvement. The business employs around 60 staff, all based on the island, and operates seven days a week to support both builders and residents. Its flexible staffing model allows people to work hours that suit their lifestyles, from school students to retirees, helping create a stable team. “We look for positive people who want to contribute,” Daryn says. “The flexibility we offer works really well and helps us retain our great staff.” Being open across weekends and public holidays also enables the branch to support local fundraising, with schools and community groups regularly using the site. “Transport costs are high for schools and families here, so if we can lend a hand to help them raise funds locally, that makes a real difference,” Daryn says. The business also supports organisations such as the Auckland rescue helicopter trust and works closely with Mates in Construction to promote mental health awareness. A recent partnership with Waiheke High School to establish a building academy reflects a joint long-term commitment to developing local talent. “These kids are the future,” Daryn says. “They’ll go on to work in the industry or start their own businesses.” RETAIL
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