May – June Chapter events

Chapter Events

Auckland Chapter:

On May 22, members from across the motu gathered for a networking event held at the Innovation Hub in Ellerslie, Auckland, to hear from guest speaker and fellow NZWiR member Victoria Elvin, General Manager of Building & Technical Services at Kingspan Thermakraft.

Thursday nights event was follwed with an exclusive tour of the Pink Batts factory on Friday morning. It was a fantastic opportunity to see behind the scenes of one of our industry’s key products!

Waikato Chapter:

The Hamilton Chapter recently had the privilege of attending the exclusive opening of the Hopuhopu development – a site steeped in history and cultural significance. This special event was reserved for those who contributed to the first build of the new development, making it a meaningful milestone for all involved. Once an army base, Hopuhopu holds deep importance as the first land parcel returned to Waikato-Tainui under the Waikato Raupatu Lands Settlement. Today, it is being transformed into a housing development and innovation hub, blending legacy with future-focused development.

Attendees were welcomed with a whakatau (a formal welcome held outside of a marae), and the grounds were blessed as part of a guided site tour, acknowledging the mana of the whenua and those who have shaped its journey. The event concluded with a shared breakfast, offering time for reflection, connection and laughter.

We’re incredibly proud to share that Elizabeth Watson, NZWiR committee member, and her team at Stone Roofing were roof installers on the new development. Even more special, this new structure stands beside one of the first roofs installed by NZWiR member Tina Potter, early in her roofing career. An awesome full-circle moment that highlights the legacy and leadership of wāhine in our industry.

Wellington Chapter:

Freeman Roofing Wellington hosted members from the Wellington Chapter on a guided tour of their facilities. This tour offered our members a fantastic opportunity to see how roofing products are made and gain a deeper understanding of the technology and processes involved. A special thank you to Louise Herne, the Branch Manager at Freeman Roofing Wellington, for facilitating the tour. It was an excellent way to break the daily routine and learn more about the roofing industry!