86 | BUILDING P. 0210 252 1555 E. info@axionelectrical.co.nz www.axionelectrical.co.nz Like us on Delivering high quality electrical services with over 20years experience in the industry. New Builds / Architectural / Commercial / Renovations & repairs / Security / Communications / Audio Visual Proudly Supporting Tao Homes Contact Us: 022 691 7280 | pst.paintingdecorating@gmail.com PSTPainting and Decorating Ph: 03 218 8919 • Email: admin@insidesystems.co.nz • 121 Eye Street • PO Box 1133, Invercargill • Plumbing • Drainage • Air Conditioning • Heating • Ventilation Delivering on details The development includes a collection of high-quality homes. Tao Homes T T Kelly Deeks BJ Carter Builders Old-school builders busy in Southland T T Emma Bailey Tao Homes is entering a new phase of growth in Christchurch with the company now taking a more hands-on role by managing its own developments and projects for clients, as it continues to contribute high-quality homes to the region’s residential expansion. Led by director Tao Meng, the business has delivered 13 projects across the city over the past six years, building a reputation for well-located, thoughtfully designed townhouses that appeal to first-home buyers and investors. The experience gained is now underpinning a shift towards in-house project management, giving the company greater control over delivery, cost and quality. Tao says stepping into a project-management role is a natural progression. “We have always worked closely with builders to deliver our developments, but now we are managing our first project for ourselves and one for a client,” he says. “It allows us to better control the process and make sure we are delivering the standard we expect, as well as a sharp price for the buyers.” A current example is the development at 72 Jeffreys Road in Fendalton, which Tao For 65 years, BJ Carter Builders has been building and renovating exceptional homes across Southland, earning a reputation for quality craftsmanship and a straightforward approach. Specialising in new homes, design and build, renovations, alterations, maintenance, bespoke joinery, and light commercial work, the team services Invercargill, Queenstown, Riverton, and everywhere in between. The business was established in 1961 by Brian Carter in partnership with Lindsay Johnstone. Brian completed his apprenticeship in Invercargill with his uncle, where he also boarded, laying the foundations for the strong work ethic and standards the company still upholds today. “Lindsay later went farming,” says Brian’s son, James Carter. “But my father’s motto always stuck – do it once and do it right.” Following in his father’s footsteps, James is a proud Master Builder and was recently awarded Life Membership, a significant industry honour that reflects his longstanding commitment and contribution. The business continues to thrive, with demand remaining strong across the region. “We’ve been flat out since Covid, and have not slowed down,” says James. “There is a lot happening in Southland, particularly in Riverton, where people from both Southland and Queenstown are relocating for lifestyle reasons.” Much of BJ Carter Builders’ work is architecturally designed, including both new builds and complex renovations. Alongside this, the team delivers bespoke joinery, farm “There is a lot happening in Southland, particularly in Riverton, where people from both Southland and Queenstown are relocating for lifestyle reasons.” Homes is managing directly while engaging contractors on a labour-only basis. The project highlights the company’s evolving model, combining established industry relationships with a more direct oversight approach. Valued at around $6 million, the development includes a collection of high-quality homes designed for a premium market. Tao says managing the build internally allows the team to apply the knowledge gained across previous projects, while identifying further efficiencies. The homes at Jeffreys Rd have been designed with flexibility and functionality in mind, offering three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, open-plan living spaces, and layouts that support a range of living arrangements, including multigenerational households. Tao says the focus is on delivering homes that are practical, comfortable, and built to a high standard. “We have made mistakes since we started in 2019, but I’ve seen those as opportunities to improve. Working closely with builders, subcontractors, and suppliers has helped us understand how to do things better.” Location continues to play a central role in Tao Homes’ development strategy. The company targets sites close to the central city, transport routes, and key amenities, recognising their importance for both lifestyle and long-term value. building maintenance, residential maintenance, and light commercial projects – ensuring a diverse and challenging workload. From modest beginnings with just three to four staff, the company has grown to a team of over 20, including three full-time joiners and three insulators. Training has always been a cornerstone of the business, with 43 apprentices coming through the ranks over the years. “I surround myself with good people who are passionate about the industry,” James says. “Watching them grow and go on to their own careers is really rewarding.” The company has also achieved consistent success in the Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards, only missing entry this year due to timing. Despite changes in the industry, their approach remains hands-on, James says. “We are still old school – from digging foundations right through to the roof, we do it all.” Staff wellbeing is a priority, with initiatives that set the business apart. Between February and November, staff receive the first Friday of each month off on full pay as a wellbeing day, allowing time for appointments that are often only available during the week. This has had a noticeable impact, boosting both morale and productivity.
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