Stonewood Homes began in Christchurch in 1987. The early years saw the company operating out of a series of offices with a skeleton staff, two of whom still remain to this day. In fact, one of them joined when he was already almost at retirement age and still works for Stonewood Homes on a part time basis, even though he is now into his ninth decade!
There is no doubt that one of the keys to Stonewood’s success is the huge vision Managing Director Brent Mettrick has brought to both the company, and the homebuilding industry as a whole.
These days, Brent’s vision is most visible in the way he has embraced new technology – to the point where Stonewood Homes are now recognised industry leaders with their innovative systems covering every aspect of the business.
Stonewood Homes has grown to be one of New Zealand’s biggest homebuilding companies with franchises throughout the country. These franchises are invariably owned by people who are already well respected within their franchise area – professional and experienced locals with a huge commitment to their community.
Along the way, Stonewood have picked up a truckload of local and national House of the Year awards and, even more important to Brent and the team, a growing group of very satisfied clients – particularly the more than 30% who are now on their, second, third (or even more) Stonewood home!
The Stonewood culture of commitment and leadership extends well beyond the walls of the company’s offices and showhomes. Brent has long been an influential business figure within the New Zealand building industry. He is immediate Past President of New Zealand Registered Master Builders Federation, Past President of Canterbury Registered Master Builders Association, Director of New Zealand Green Building Council, and a member of EECA’s Home Energy Rating Advisory Group.
Like attracts like, so it’s probably no coincidence that almost half of the Stonewood franchise owners have held prominent positions within Masterbuilders themselves, both at regional and national level, with several of them also past National Presidents of the organisation.
Stonewood Homes have proven that it really is possible to have the best of both worlds. They will build a beautiful home anyone would love to live in today, while helping ensure our children enjoy a better tomorrow. Their homes are highly insulated, feature eco-friendly appliances that use less power and water, and are built using renewable resources and non-toxic building materials. And their many years of experience and superior buying power ensure that outstanding design and quality, worry-free construction needn’t cost the earth.
Stonewood Homes are also the only New Zealand home building company to sponsor andbe involved in the creation of the new Homestar energy efficiency rating system.
