Hello,
With spring here and thoughts turning to summer we thought it timely to update you on some changes here at Ecopod Homes, and what we are planning.
We remain committed to delivering the high quality, eco-friendly, timber-built homes and other buildings that our customers want.
We've extended our range to include larger homes, up to 170 square meters, and multi-pod modular homes. Our recent customers purchased an affordable home for a rural block or added a granny flat or rental accommodation to their existing property. We have delivered some special builds recently, including an office block for MOTAT and 260 square meters of intergenerational living for a family in Tuapaki.
We have updated our website, with more designs and information to give a better understanding of our capabilities and the options available.
One important change is that our Managing Director for the last 6 years, Paul Dyson, whom some of you have met, passed in June. Paul was diagnosed with a serious illness and was under medical care, but despite efforts to help him, he tragically passed due to unforeseen complications. Paul was an effective, liked, and trusted leader of Ecopod and we miss him.
I have been a director of Ecopod since 2021 and have moved into the Managing Director role. My work experience includes being a management consultant, the CEO of several businesses, and a director of large and small businesses. I have a PhD in environment management, and I'm delighted to be involved with a company that is strong on ecological credentials.
Ecopod moved recently. We were unable to continue at the Greenhithe Wharf site, partly because of landslip risks resulting from the cyclone, and are now operating from 326a Postman Road in Dairy Flat. Building has started at the new location, which is close to the motorway and easy for customers to visit.
You may know at least some of our leadership team members, Olly (operations), Jill (admin), and Lance (sales). All have been with us for several years now and they work well together to complete the many tasks required to design, build and deliver a home. They are supported by our reliable contractors who bring professional and trade services, our time-tested suppliers, and our great team of builders.
Benny is the latest addition to our crew, having moved up from the Waikato. Benny is an experienced builder and a great problem-solver with a knack for getting things done. He's fun to work with and already an effective and valued member of the team.
We're bursting with pride for our apprentice Zinnia Gurden, who clinched 1st place in the North Auckland region at the 2025 New Zealand Certified Builders Apprentice Challenge! on April 12. Zinnie showcased her exceptional skills in an intense 8-hour practical build competition, proving why she's a rising star. Now in her final year of apprenticeship, Zinnie has her sights set on leading her own build team.
When it comes to the special features for your home, Marco is the man. His diverse building experience includes working as a renovator. He's committed to ensuring every detail is right, from the colour combinations to finishing touches.
Following the recent challenges, we are looking to the future. Our focus on customised eco-friendly timber homes continues, with emphasis on granny flats and larger family home homes, but we still build a wide range of buildings for multiple purpose - home, office, studio, rental, etc. Almost all our customers want at least some help with design, consenting, finance, or site preparation.
Consistent with our Kaizen practices and philosophy, we are always looking for improvement opportunities. Our efforts continue to improve work processes, and the range of materials and options available. We're always looking for ways to reduce costs too, while maintaining quality and the eco-friendly practices that distinguish us from almost all our competitors.
With the promised improvements in regulations and consenting costs, we are expecting some increase in sales and builds next year. Until then, the construction industry remains under a great deal of pressure with numerous insolvencies. This year has been difficult for us too. We have work for the next few months, but we need more orders for next year.
Often our customers are referred to us by our clients or others who know us well. We want to encourage more referrals and would really appreciate it if would you keep us mind for any conversations you might have with people who want a building and value quality, customer service, and eco-friendly building choices.
To show our appreciation we are offering $1500 gift vouchers (3x$500) from Mitre 10 or Bunnings for anyone who refers a customer who purchases an Ecopod home or other building.
Thank you for reading this update about our changes and intentions. Please send a reply or give me a call. We are interested to know how your Ecopod is performing for you, if you have one, or how your engagement with Ecopod is working if you are a supplier or contractor. Let me know if you'd like to visit us at 326a Postman Road, Dairy Flat, and tell us what else is happening in your life.
With best wishes
