Meet the People Behind Ecopod Homes
Our Team, Your Project Partners
It takes a team to build successfully. The Ecopod team includes management specialists and builders. The management specialists bring functional skills and work together as required for understanding what customers want, how to deliver that, to develop designs, secure consents where required, and to support building and delivery. Most of our buildings are customised, which means projects are complex and unique, so having the right skills and effective collaboration are critical. Many of our team members have been working together for several years.
There is a much wider network we work with too, including people who bring architectural and engineering skills for detailed designs and consenting, materials suppliers and sub-contractors, professionals for digital marketing and for geo-tech and other site issues, who ensure we have the plans, materials, knowledge, and specialist skills to build cost-effectively.
Our lead team comprises the leads for sales, operations, administration, and the managing director.
Rick Boven
Managing Director
Rick brings a unique blend of credentials for his Managing Director role, including four years as an Ecopod director and extensive consulting experience. His consulting projects cover a wide scope including projects on business strategy, organisation development, construction materials, sustainable housing, and urban design. He has a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, informed by his PhD in environmental management, strategic work with Auckland Council and on national policy, and active engagement in environmental advocacy and education.
Olly Mason
Operations Manager
Meet Olly Mason, our Operations Manager, Project Manager, LBP Builder, and QS at Ecopod, where he’s the driving force behind seamless project delivery and high-performing teams. With a Bachelor’s in Food Technology (Hons) and Process Engineering from Massey University, plus BCITO Carpentry and LBP qualifications, Olly combines technical expertise with innovative problem-solving to ensure every build runs like clockwork.  He enjoys forecasting challenges, streamlining processes, and optimising resources.
Lance Tomsett
Sales Manager
Lance brings the customer voice to everything we do at Ecopod Homes. With over 30 years in sales and management—including a decade focused on residential construction—he bridges design, technical, and client needs with clarity and care. Lance ensures every enquiry gets the attention it deserves, guiding customers through the process with transparency and expertise. His philosophy? Put the customer first, and success follows.
Jill Gurden
Operations Support Manager
Jill keeps Ecopod Homes running smoothly behind the scenes. Since 2020, she's been our go-to for operations, accounts, and making sure nothing falls through the cracks. With a background spanning construction and consulting, plus her current Project Management studies, Jill brings organisation and care to everything she touches. Her proactive, people-first approach means our team—and our customers—are always well supported.
Marco Spinelli
Lead Builder
Marco is Ecopod Homes' go-to lead builder for bringing your vision to life. With extensive experience in renovations and custom builds, he has a sharp eye for detail—from colour combinations to perfect finishing touches. Marco's hands-on approach ensures every special feature in your home is crafted with care and precision. His commitment to quality means nothing leaves the workshop until it meets his exacting standards and your expectations.
Zinnia Gurden
Level 4 Apprentice
Zinnia is Ecopod Homes' rising star—literally. In April 2025, she took 1st place in the North Auckland region at the NZ Certified Builders Apprentice Challenge, proving her skills in an intense 8-hour competition. After four years with us, Zinnia is set to complete her apprenticeship, bringing precision, dedication, and fresh energy to every project. She's already setting her sights on leading her own build team.
Ben Roberts
Qualified Builder
Benny hails from the mighty Waikato, bringing solid building experience and a problem-solving mindset that makes every project run smoother. Known for his can-do attitude and practical approach, he tackles challenges head-on and finds solutions that work. Benny's positive energy has made him a valued team member from day one. Whether it's troubleshooting on-site or collaborating with the crew, he gets things done with skill and a laugh along the way.