78 | T T Kim Newth Smart homes on tiny footprints Ruru managing director Fran Huelsmeyer: “ We now we have up to 50 employees working with us and delivering over 50 tiny houses a year.” Ruru Tiny Homes BUILDING In today’s tight economic times, people are looking for more affordable home build options. Launched in Motueka just two years ago, Ruru Tiny Homes has rapidly scaled up to support market needs with quality tiny homes on wheels, built ethically and sustainably in New Zealand. It all started when Motueka couple Fran and Daniel Huelsmeyer decided to buy a secondhand tiny house to rent as an Airbnb but then realised they could probably build something better themselves. With the help of a nearby builder, they built their first tiny home and soon discovered there was a niche in the market waiting to be filled. “When we put our tiny home on TradeMe to rent, it actually sold within 24 hours, and now we have up to 50 employees working with us and delivering over 50 tiny houses a year!” says Fran, Ruru’s managing director. Founded on a commitment to provide highend yet affordable tiny house solutions, Ruru offers a choice of attractive one- to three- bedroom options. Using all Building Code compliant materials and satisfying healthy home standards, these homes are built using New Zealand materials sourced from local suppliers. “We often say our homes are on a tiny footprint but are not tiny homes. They are designed and built just like residential homes, with timber framing, double glazing and full insulation. People find them very comfortable and convenient to live in.” Since Ruru Tiny Homes was founded in Motueka in 2021, a second yard has opened in Whangārei to provide a New Zealand wide service. Ruru works with qualified and certified transport providers to deliver from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Costs of transport are comparatively low as the size of these tiny homes is such that they do not require a pilot vehicle or extra transport permits. The Ruru commitment to New Zealand materials goes hand in hand with a sustainability ethos and a focus on fair employment practices. The company aims to foster a healthy work environment for their skilled and qualified Licensed Building Practitioners and carpenters, and they support their local communities by employing local people and training up apprentices. In a difficult market, Fran and Daniel get a lot of satisfaction out of assisting people to achieve their home ownership dreams within realistic timeframes. “Due to the way we are set up, the systems we have in place and the staff we employ, our builds only take nine weeks from start to finish. Our customers can choose an individual approach on interior lining, on flooring and how the kitchen looks with a range of different options available that make it really easy.” Ruru Tiny Homes has helped solve another common challenge in the market associated with difficulties finding affordable land for housing. The company has developed a land share community, connecting their tiny homeowners with long term lease opportunities. It is proving a win-win for all involved. “What all our customers love is the simplicity that comes with this type of home ownership. “They’re often pleasantly surprised at how convenient, cosy and atmospheric life is in a tiny house.” Recent feedback from a South Island first home buyer, Rekekah, reflects the many positive comments they receive: “We LOVE our Ruru. The footprint is tiny but the space is so practical. The full height ceiling in the living area downstairs makes the whole house feel spacious and we find the number of windows on all sides of the house attract so much sun! Working with Ruru was very easy, we found Fran to be extremely knowledgeable. Regardless of the day or time, she was always quick to respond whenever we had a question.” Designs in the range, priced from $183,000, include single and double-storey options. Custom builds can also be explored for those seeking a more tailored outcome. Blake Davies 027 268 2700 bdelectrical@outlook.co.nz RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • MAINTENANCE
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