As someone who thrives on partnership, collaboration, and the interplay between design, sustainability, and functionality. His projects – like the much-anticipated O&O development in Onehunga – are a testament to this ethos: homes that are aspirational yet attainable, beautiful yet practical, and always centred on people.
What motivated you to get into property development?
I studied property and finance at university, but my interest in development goes beyond the numbers. I’ve always been drawn to the process of taking something from concept to completion. Property, for me, represents the opportunity to create tangible spaces that endure.
There’s something incredibly powerful about shaping environments where people will live, build memories, and plan their futures. That idea that what we build today can have a lasting impact on individuals and communities has always deeply motivated me.
You talk of “property with purpose” – what does that mean in practice?
There are always moments in development where you could trim specification or remove features to improve margins – whether that’s omitting EV chargers, reducing interior finishes, or simplifying detailing. Financially, those decisions might make sense. But we always ask ourselves: what impact does this have on the person who will live here?
Our core driver is impact. As a company, our mantra is creating spaces that make people come alive, and in doing so, contributing positively to the wider community.
Tell us about your design process.
I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by exceptional people in the industry. Two individuals who’ve had a significant influence on me are Shane Brealey of NZ Living (now Simplicity Living), and Mark Todd from Ockham Residential. Both have demonstrated what it looks like to develop with long-term thinking and genuine care for residents. Their generosity with insight and experience has shaped my approach enormously.
I love being deeply involved in the design process. I often put myself in the shoes of a future purchaser and ask, “How would I live here? What would elevate this space day to day?” That thinking informs everything – from tapware selection and LED detailing in bathrooms, to material choices like low-maintenance brick exteriors.
What has been your most rewarding experience?
One that stands out was selling an apartment to a man in his mid-50s who had been searching for a long time without finding the right fit. When he secured the apartment, you could see the shift – excitement, relief, hope. That moment reinforced for me what this work is really about – creating foundations for people’s next chapter.
Another powerful moment was driving past one of our social housing developments and seeing a child riding a bike in the backyard. It was a simple scene, but it said everything.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the industry?
Firstly, do it with people. Surround yourself with good operators. The right relationships – consultants, builders, mentors, investors – make all the difference. Success in this industry is rarely individual.
Secondly, I love the quote: “Most people overestimate what they can do in one year and underestimate what they can do in ten.” Property is a long game. Start small, do an excellent job, then build from there.
Sum up your development approach in one sentence…
Developing, with people at the top of the priority list.
