100 | T T Alexia Anderson Bold career move a steep learning curve BUILDING Mike Kapua Builder Ltd Mike Kapua isn’t one to let an opportunity pass him by, a mantra that has seen him go from dedicated builder to business owner. It was December 2019 when Mike launched his own Dunedin based business, Mike Kapua Builder Ltd, a move he says was made possible by his previous employer, Lew Walker. Lew, who Mike describes as a “top builder”, had won numerous Master Builders house of the year gold awards and was entering retirement. Mike had worked for Lew for 13 years, starting with him after completing a carpentry course at Dunedin Polytechnic. He went on to complete a BCITO carpentry apprenticeship while working for Lew, before progressing as a foreman and leading hand. Now, with the title of business owner to his name, Mike is taking his career to the next level. However, that move has been a learning curve, he said. “I was unsure about a lot of things; contracts, taxes, workload [like] where I was going to get my work from, [and] quotes and pricing. Having Lew on hand to call on was a big help.” Talking to others is one thing Mike advises others to do if they are setting out on the same path. “I have called on other successful established builders and sub-contractors for advice, most people are willing to help someone who’s starting out,” he said. His other tips for someone entering into business is to have a good accountant. “I went into business knowing very little about taxes etc, my accountant was very helpful in explaining how everything works.” And, top of his list of advice is to “surround yourself with good people, eg sub-contractors, employees and suppliers”. He said the learnings that have come with the role of business owner had been worth it, even when it meant stepping out of his comfort zone of working for wages, taking risks and shouldering responsibility. A good support crew, in particular his reliable team of three, has also helped, he said. (03) 488 6213 (021) 44 15 15 www.qualityinteriors.co.nz CONTACT From residential to commercial, Quality Interiors delivers the highest quality of work and attention to detail. Proudly supporting Mike Kapua Builders Proud Supplier for Mike Kapua Builders 11 Odlins Place, Mosgiel - Dunedin P: (03) 474 1124 E: dunedin@designwindows.co.nz www.designwindows.co.nz Mike Kapua is taking his building career to the next level. “I am lucky to have three great employees [and] I’m on the tools full time myself.” Leading hand and foreman, Danny, has worked with Mike for more than 10 years, and Josh, an apprentice, who has been on the team since 2020, is due to qualify in the coming weeks. Next in line to complete an apprenticeship is Thomas, who is halfway through his training. Mike’s team also consists of a contractor, who has been helping full time lately. He said while new builds have slowed down over the past 12 months, he was fortunate to pick up an architectural new build last year, which the team is currently working on. Mike said he has been getting more inquiries for renovations lately than new builds, but business was looking good. “The current new build we are working on will keep us busy through September, with some potential big jobs in the pipeline to follow with.” Overall, the industry is one Mike is proud to be a part of, particularly as New Zealand is moving towards healthier, more energy efficient homes. “The current new build we are working on will keep us busy through September, with some potential big jobs in the pipeline.”
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=