Florence joined White Associates in 2020, right in the mix of Covid-19, and took it all in her stride. From day one she became the steadying force in our Bank Funding team, making sure work stayed organised, calm, and on track even when the environment around us was anything but.

Over five years, she’s grown into a pivotal team anchor, someone who anticipates needs, simplifies the complex, and keeps the wheels turning with quiet efficiency. From managing project finance and quality assurance to coordinating daily administration, Florence ensures deliverables move smoothly through our systems and out to clients.

Beyond the day‑to‑day, Florence handles the nuts and bolts that really matter: drawdowns, invoicing, debtor tracking, and team resourcing, always with an eye for accuracy and timeliness. She is the gatekeeper of our QA system, keeping documents, templates, processes, and procedures up‑to‑date, and spotting potential issues early so we can keep projects moving with confidence.

She’s also a powerhouse in client relations, managing the funding team’s marketing system, scheduling meetings, tracking follow‑ups, and maintaining smooth communication between our team and our clients. Her ability to coordinate and connect means everyone knows what’s happening and what’s next.

What makes Florence truly outstanding is her blend of precision and initiative. Even though she isn’t a Quantity Surveyor, she consistently brings impressive technical understanding of project finance and construction, dives into problems, and finds pragmatic solutions fast. That combination of curiosity and ownership has earned her consistent praise from clients and teammates alike.

Through all of this, she brings positivity, professionalism, and a genuine care for the people around her. She’s the trusted teammate who notices details others miss, steps in before bottlenecks form, and looks for better ways to do things so we can deliver with confidence.

We’re lucky to have Florence as part of our team and excited to watch her keep thriving. Congratulations on reaching your incredible five‑year milestone. Thank you for everything you do.

Queenstown Research and Innovation Centre: Driving Growth and Sustainability

Situated in the heart of Remarkables Park, Queenstown, the Research and Innovation Centre is a landmark development designed to transform the region’s economic landscape. This $45 million, six-floor, 6,000m² multipurpose facility is more than just a building, it’s a hub for high-tech businesses, research entities, and commercial activities, complemented by an eight-theatre cinema complex on its lower levels.

The project is a strategic response to Queenstown’s reliance on tourism, aiming to diversify the economy by fostering high-value, low-impact industries. Backed by a $22.5 million Government loan, the centre is expected to attract world-class talent, create up to 400 long-term jobs, and provide opportunities for local upskilling. Sustainability is central to its design, with full-roof solar panels and energy-efficient systems reinforcing its commitment to environmentally responsible development.

What makes this project unique is its ambition: to serve as a “beacon” for innovation rather than a traditional incubator. It offers collaborative spaces alongside private offices, creating an environment where ideas can thrive. Located within Remarkables Park Town Centre, the Research and Innovation Centre compliments an already diverse array of retail, hospitality, and commercial activities, in an ever evolving location.

White Associates’ Role and Impact

White Associates is proud to be a key contributor to this visionary development, Quantity Surveying services across procurement, and post-contract phases. Our team, led by Elliot Smith, worked alongside the Client, Research and Innovation Queenstown Limited, The project team, comprising RCP Project Management, Mason and Wales Architects, Engeo Structural Engineers, Cosgroves, NDY Acoustic Engineers, and the Main Contractor, Cook Brothers Construction.

The project required a collaborative approach, through a negotiated, open book tender process, to enable key trades to be procured in order to meet critical funding milestones.

With the base building works now complete to the centre, the next phase of the project has commenced, with a range of tenant fitouts in the pipeline for the near future.

We were honoured to attend the official opening of 10 new social housing units at Stevenson Village on Botany Road, Howick. A project that reflects the power of collaboration and community spirit.

This achievement is the result of dedicated teamwork between Howick Baptist Healthcare (HBH Group), Stevenson Village Limited, Christian Savings Limited, and a wide network of project partners. We’re proud to have played a key role in supporting this initiative, which provides safe, affordable housing for seniors and strengthens the fabric of our local community.

The opening ceremony on 28 September began with a dawn blessing led by Tainui Waka, supported by Ōwairoa Marae, Manurewa Marae, and the Te Ao Māori Group. A kōwhai tree was planted to honour the history of the whenua, acknowledging the midden site discovered during construction. Hon Simeon Brown, MP for Pakuranga and Minister of Health, led the official proceedings, joined by local leaders, HBH Board members, and project partners.

For us at White Associates, this project was more than just bricks and mortar, it was about creating homes that empower seniors to age well and live fully. Our team, including Liam Crane and Justin Bearne, worked closely with HBH Group and other stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of these units. Seeing the positive impact these homes will have on residents is incredibly rewarding.

All 10 units are now filled, and a waitlist has already formed, a clear sign of the need for initiatives like this. We congratulate everyone involved and look forward to supporting more projects that combine purpose, partnership, and community.

We had the privilege of presenting Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai with a $5,254 donation. Thank you to Jared Thomas for helping make this happen with the Insurance for Good initiative, it has been a great experience from start to finish. We have improved our insurance cover, reduced costs and been able to support an amazing charitable trust.

When given the opportunity to choose a charity, Auckland City Mission was an easy and heartfelt decision for us at White Associates.

This cause is close to our hearts because our involvement with the Mission dates back over 15 years, to the very inception of this project. From those early days to the thriving initiative it has become, we’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible impact it has had on the Auckland community. Seeing lives changed and support extended to those who need it most has been humbling and inspiring.

Our contribution reflects not only our gratitude for the Mission’s work but also our commitment to supporting projects that make a real difference. We hope this donation helps Auckland City Mission continue its vital services, providing food, shelter, and care to those in need.

White Associates, as the Funding Representative for First Mortgage Trust (FMT), was delighted to support the transformation of Rosario Crescent into a vibrant new residential community. A residential development at Rosario Crescent, Red Beach, Auckland. This project, commissioned by Waihanga Rosario Limited and a relationship introduced by Fortis Capital and funded by FMT, involved the construction of three standalone, two-storey luxury homes, each featuring four bedrooms and a double garage, built by Sentinel Homes.

Rosario Crescent homes showcase bold architecture, abundant natural light, and privacy, with open layouts, landscaped gardens, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow for stylish entertaining and a warm, welcoming lifestyle.

From the outset, our team was entrusted with a critical role: providing bank funding representation and quantity surveying expertise to ensure the project’s financial integrity and compliance. Led by Justin Bearne and Darin Bayer, our responsibilities included preparing and finalising Precondition reports for funding approval as well as monthly drawdown reports, conducting site visits to verify contractor payments, and reviewing documentation for compliance and insurance when supplied to us. We worked closely with the client, funders, and contractors to keep the project on track and within budget.

One of the most notable aspects of this development was its highly structured funding process, which included 16 drawdown stages and rigorous quality assurance. The project’s infrastructure was completed to 100% compliance, and our financial oversight helped deliver the homes well under budget and on schedule.

The Rosario Crescent project stands as a testament to White Associates’ commitment to excellence, transparency, and client-focused service. By combining deep industry knowledge with practical expertise, we helped deliver a development that meets the highest standards, providing peace of mind for both clients and funders.

We’re grateful to Waihanga Rosario Limited (Logan and Caleb), Fortis Capital for their ongoing support, First Mortgage Trust for their trust and collaboration, and the main contractors Sentinel Homes, and we look forward to supporting more successful projects in the future.

Quantity Surveyor – Queenstown

White Associates is a leading construction cost consultancy firm in New Zealand with offices in Auckland and Queenstown. Known for delivering value, clarity, and confidence across a diverse range of projects, we work with developers, contractors, and consultants across the full project lifecycle – from feasibility and procurement through to construction and final account.

We’re looking for a full-time Quantity Surveyor to join our team in Queenstown – someone who thrives on problem-solving and enjoys building strong relationships with clients and project teams.

Apply Now: Send your CV and cover letter to careers@whiteassociates.co.nz or apply via LinkedIn.

Recruiters: Please note we are not engaging agency support for this role and do not accept unsolicited resumes. Any CVs sent via agencies will be disregarded, and candidates may approach us directly. This helps us manage recruitment in a way that best suits our team and process.

What You’ll Do:

• Prepare cost estimates, feasibility studies, and tender documentation
• Assist with procurement and contract administration
• Monitor project progress and manage variations
• Support financial reporting and final account preparation
• Attend site visits and project meetings

What You’ll Bring:

• 3 – 5 years of quantity surveying experience in NZ
• Relevant qualification (QS, Construction Management, Engineering, or Property)
• Solid understanding of NZ construction practices and contracts (NZS3910, etc.)
• Experience across both Pre-Contract and Post-Contract phases
• Excellent communication, attention to detail, and a positive, proactive attitude

Why Join Us:

• Work on a diverse range of projects across sectors and scales
• Be part of a team that values integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Learn from experienced professionals and grow your career
• Enjoy a supportive and inclusive workplace culture
• Competitive salary and clear career development pathways

We have been fortunate enough to work alongside MTM Investments, our existing client, on the motorhome rental facility. Located in Remarkables Park, the project is the first in the newly subdivided development, north of Hawthorne Drive.

The newly developed sub-division, further complements the rest of Remarkables Park, including Remarkables Town Centre, further strengthening its offering.

Read below for the November edition of Business South, featuring an article on this project:

By Karen Phelps

MTM Group is developing a purpose-built facility for a campervan sale and hire business on a one-hectare site at Queenstown’s Remarkables Park. The project, currently under construction and due for completion in mid 2026, will feature a salesroom, showroom, workshop and designated drop-off and pick-up areas, as well as parking bays.

MTM Group purchased the land and is developing it within the Remarkables Park Zone, which offers one of the most comprehensive zoning as a master planned location in the Queenstown Lakes District.

“It is a rare piece of large flat land in Queenstown. It’s close to the airport, transport, Remarkables Park town centre with residential areas, hotels and the Wakatipu High School across the road,” says Johnathan Chen, Managing Director of MTM Group. “It’s a real work-play-live area.” 

MTM Group, run by MTM Investments, has a history of successfully delivering development projects. The company’s philosophy centres on quality and long-term value, guided by a simple mantra: it never develops anything that its directors wouldn’t be happy to hold themselves. “This project at Lot 81 Remarkables Park is one of the first in the newly subdivided lots north of Hawthorne Drive at Remarkables Park,” explains Johnathan.

“We are looking to secure more sites and working with other clients looking to do something similar in the area.”

He says the location of the development offers numerous advantages, positioned near key infrastructure and amenities that make it attractive for commercial operations. The proximity to Queenstown Airport, coupled with access to the town centre and surrounding residential areas, provides businesses with an ideal operational base in one of New Zealand’s premier tourist destinations.

MTM Group has partnered with Calder Stewart as the main contractor for the project. “We’ve worked well with Calder Stewart on his project and look forward to working with them on future projects,” says Johnathan.

Johnathan is no stranger to Queenstown, being the Director of the company that developed and owns the Holiday Inn at Remarkables Park. The Lot 81 development is just one aspect of MTM Group’s expanding portfolio in the Queenstown region.

The company is also looking at other hotel and residential developments both within Remarkables Park and across the wider Queenstown area. As a versatile property development and investment firm specialising in both residential and commercial properties, MTM Group doesn’t confine itself to specific geographic areas or markets. Instead, Jonathan says it pursues opportunities that make commercial sense wherever they arise.

It currently has projects both completed and under construction in Auckland and Hamilton. “Our investment strategy is rooted in synergy, seeking opportunities that complement our existing investments and creating non-linear opportunities across multiple projects and industries,” he explains.

The firm’s diverse portfolio includes investments in various sectors including entertainment and hospitality operations, health supplements, green energy and import/export businesses. MTM Investments brings together multi-disciplined expertise spanning property development, finance, and investment management. Johnathan says that with its commitment to excellence and innovation, the company continues to build projects designed to stand the test of time while maintaining a personal stake in all ventures, aligning its success with that of its investors.

We’re proud to share that White Associates has achieved SiteWise Gold status for the second year in a row. A recognition of our ongoing commitment to health, safety, and the wellbeing of everyone we work with.

SiteWise is an independent prequalification system that grades contractors and consultants on their health and safety practices. Achieving Gold means our systems and processes meet the highest standards, scoring 90% or above in SiteWise’s annual assessment.

This repeat achievement reflects the consistent effort of our team to keep safety at the forefront of everything we do, from our project sites to our office environment. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about care, accountability, and continuously improving the way we work.

A big thank you to our team for maintaining this high standard and to our clients and partners who share our commitment to safe and sustainable project delivery.