Last night’s Business After Five Showcase at TSP CONSTRUCTION LTD, Greenhaven Homes NZ Homes was one of those events that really stays with you.
Hearing from Todd Strode Penny alongside Natalie Strode-Penny, you quickly understand that their success isn’t accidental, it’s built on a powerful partnership and an unwavering focus on people.
And that theme came through loud and clear.
With incredibly low staff turnover, it’s obvious they don’t just talk about culture they live it. From working closely with local schools through Gateway and Get Go programmes, to investing in apprenticeships (training over 50 to date which includes female builders), they’re actively building the future workforce of the industry.
What stood out was how their unique, centrally-built model brings everyone together under one roof, literally. It creates alignment, accountability, and a shared sense of purpose that’s hard to replicate.
Todd also gave a refreshingly honest view of the current construction environment. It’s tough out there. But through disciplined business practices, knowing their costs, understanding their market, and confidently owning what makes them different, they’re holding their own.
Andrew Reid, THCL emcee on the night noted, “There’s also a strong values-driven approach underpinning everything they do. A genuine commitment to supporting iwi, investing in their people, and embedding sustainability into their operations. One simple but powerful example is, leftover materials are made available at the front gate for others to use. The result? Minimal waste and a smarter, more thoughtful way of building”.
The message was clear:
Have a plan.
Know your business.
Invest in your people.
And be willing to adapt, because plans will change, and that’s okay.
A great reminder that long-term success is built on culture, clarity, and the courage to do things differently.
Thank you Todd and Natalie for your hospitality and for the networking refreshments for the guests. Also to Chris Morton at Event Tech for the tech support on the night. Thank you to guests attending last night, supporting the Showcase.
