Master Builders Elevate: Building a Better Business

In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Penny Thomson and Dr Terri-Ann Berry of the Environmental Innovation Centre explain why just under 70% of everything going to New Zealand landfills comes from construction. They introduce the WasteHub, a free online resource where builders can identify the plastics on their site, find a local recycler, check supplier takeback options, and set up for better separation.
They are also honest about the money. Their study of an eight lot housing site found sustainable waste management added around $1,400 per home while diverting 84% of waste by weight. Penny and Terri-Ann also cover greenwashing and introduce Circular Path, a new certification launching late 2026 for smaller builders.

Useful links:
wastehub.co.nz
environmental-innovation.nz
Where else you can find us
Website: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/
Elevate Platform: http://elevate.masterbuilder.org.nz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterbuildernz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/registeredmasterbuilders
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmh_9vl0pFf0zSB6N7RrVeg

In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Nathan Hall of Navigation Homes talks about the Mauku project that earned them a spot in the Master Builders House of the Year 2025 Top 100, taking home National Category Winner and Regional Gold. Nathan shares what made this rural build stand out, from the material choices and detailing to a last-minute patio fix that nearly didn't happen.
Nathan also explains  why entering the awards year after year is less about trophies and more about holding the team to a standard. A practical and honest conversation for any builder thinking about putting their work on the line.
Useful links:
navigationhomes.co.nz
House of the Year entry
Where else you can find us
Website: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/
Elevate Platform: http://elevate.masterbuilder.org.nz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterbuildernz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/registeredmasterbuilders
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmh_9vl0pFf0zSB6N7RrVeg

Ryan sits down with Master Builders CEO Ankit Sharma to unpack the government's $7 billion capital package and what it will actually take to turn that intention into real pipeline for the industry. They also dig into what Master Builders is hearing directly from members through its regional summit series, where over a thousand business leaders gathered this year, including the mindset gap between businesses that are merely surviving and those that are genuinely thriving right now.
Ankit shares real examples from the listening tour he conducted alongside the summits, including a Wellington builder turning AI into a customer communication tool and coming out more profitable than ever. The conversation closes with four practical principles from Ankit's recent LinkedIn article, and a teaser of the full listening tour findings coming to Constructive 2026, 3 to 4 September at the Aotea Centre, Auckland.

Useful links
Connect with Ankit Sharma on LinkedIn
When the Wind Changes, Great Leaders Tack
Subscribe to Rethink 4.0 Newsletter

Where else you can find us
Website: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/
Elevate Platform: http://elevate.masterbuilder.org.nz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterbuildernz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/registeredmasterbuilders
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmh_9vl0pFf0zSB6N7RrVeg

In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Andrew Eagles, CEO of the New Zealand Green Building Council, joins the conversation to unpack how healthier, more energy-efficient homes can create major financial advantages for both developers and homeowners. From lower-interest development finance to green mortgage offers, Andrew explains how Homestar certification is helping builders access funding benefits while delivering warmer, drier, and more comfortable homes. 
Andrew shares practical insights into the Homestar process, common misconceptions around cost, and why many developments can achieve certification with only minor design changes. He also discusses the future of building standards in New Zealand, the growing influence of global green finance, and why energy performance ratings are likely to become a key part of every home sale. Packed with real-world examples, this episode is essential listening for builders, developers, and anyone interested in the future of residential construction in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Useful links:
The New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC)
Homestar™
Free Homestar Design Guide
Infometrics research
Where else you can find us
Website: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/
Elevate Platform: http://elevate.masterbuilder.org.nz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterbuildernz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/registeredmasterbuilders
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmh_9vl0pFf0zSB6N7RrVeg

In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Mark Metzger, Director of Metzger Builders, joins the conversation to share a behind-the-scenes look at the Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards. With more than 35 years in the industry and multiple Supreme House of the Year titles to his name, Mark brings a unique perspective as both an award-winning builder and national judge.
Mark unpacks how the judging process really works — from travelling across the country and assessing homes, to the detailed scoring system that evaluates workmanship, design, and degree of difficulty. He shares what makes a home stand out, the importance of consistency and craftsmanship, and how the competition continues to raise standards across the industry. This episode offers valuable insights for builders considering entering, and a fascinating look at what excellence in residential construction truly means in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Useful links:
Metzger Builders https://www.mblexcellence.co.nz/
House of the Year Awards
Where else you can find us
Website: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/
Elevate Platform: http://elevate.masterbuilder.org.nz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterbuildernz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/registeredmasterbuilders
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmh_9vl0pFf0zSB6N7RrVeg