It’s all happening in Hawke’s Bay

When Cyclone Gabrielle tore through Hawke’s Bay in early 2023, it left a trail of devastation that the region is still working to recover from. Roads were cut off, homes were damaged, and entire communities were thrown into crisis. For many, it was a defining moment, but it was also the beginning of a powerful response.

Since then, Hawke’s Bay has shown remarkable resilience. Government support and local investment have helped fuel a large-scale recovery effort, injecting millions into the local economy and kickstarting infrastructure upgrades, residential rebuilds, and community support initiatives. The energy around the region today isn’t just about getting back on track, it’s about moving forward with purpose.

“Although it was devastating at the time, it’s also brought some real positives for the region,” says Steven. “There’s been a huge cash injection, and that’s kept people working, from digger drivers right through to designers and suppliers. It’s given the area a real boost at a time when other parts of the country have been feeling the pinch of last year’s recession.”

For Landmark Homes Hawke’s Bay, it’s been a time of both reflection and growth. While navigating the challenges of a disrupted market, the franchise has continued to build, strengthen client relationships, and contribute to the region’s recovery. “It wasn’t easy growing the business during that period,” says Steven. “But we stuck to our process, kept delivering quality, and came out stronger for it.”

When Landmark Homes Hawke’s Bay opened in early 2023, it built on the proven foundations of the successful Taupō franchise, co-owned by Steven Painter and Gerry Schumacher. With the same systems and approach, the team hit the ground running, and early success followed. Their first Showhome picked up a Gold Award at the Registered Master Builders House of the Year, along with a TIDA New Zealand award for kitchen design. It was a strong signal that the franchise was on the right path.

With that early momentum behind them, the team is now focused on its next milestone, a brand-new Showhome in Mission Hills, one of the region’s most exciting new subdivisions. 

Set in the hills above Taradale, Mission Hills offers elevated sections with sweeping views and a premium, peaceful feel. It’s an area that’s already generating strong interest from buyers looking for something special.

“Mission Hills is a bit of a game changer for the region,” says Steven. “It’s elevated, it’s quiet, and it’s just above the Mission Estate Winery, so it’s got that lifestyle feel straight away,” say Steven.

The Showhome has been custom-designed specifically for the site. At around 240 square metres, it reflects a more modern, architectural style, with open, light-filled spaces and a layout that takes full advantage of the setting. 

“We didn’t base it off any existing plan,” Steven explains. “It’s something fresh, something smart and contemporary, and it really fits the setting. We’ve packed a lot into the footprint, so it feels open and generous without being oversized.”

Alongside the Showhome, the team already has two other builds underway in the development, with more interest coming in steadily. With plans for a new supermarket and further growth in the area, Mission Hills is shaping up as a sought-after spot for people wanting a premium home in a premium location.

While Mission Hills is creating buzz in Taradale, another standout development is taking shape just outside Havelock North. Known for its boutique charm, excellent schools, and thriving food and wine scene, Havelock North has long been one of Hawke’s Bay’s most sought-after suburbs. Now, with new land opening up in the Iona area, there’s a rare opportunity to build in a location that blends prestige with lifestyle.

“Iona’s a really special part of Havelock,” says Steven. “It’s elevated, it has views over the orchards and the village, and it’s not the kind of flat, flood-prone land we’ve seen developed in the past. From an investment point of view, it’s a superb spot.”

With hundreds of new sections planned, Iona represents a significant step in the town’s growth. For Landmark Homes Hawke’s Bay, it’s an ideal fit. A place where architectural homes can sit comfortably in a landscape that’s already rich in character.

As the business has grown, so has the team behind it. From project management to client care, the franchise has expanded its capabilities and sharpened its focus on service.

“We’re basically the same size now as our Taupō franchise,” says Steven. “That’s a big milestone. It means we’ve got the capacity to take on more, without compromising on quality.”

The team includes two construction managers, a dedicated site manager, and a project coordinator training in interior design. There’s also a new in-house kitchen designer and two new home consultants who bring fresh ideas and energy to the client experience. The expanded structure means the team can offer a more personalised, design-led service, right from the first consultation.

At the heart of it all are some familiar faces. Kristy Portas, one of Landmark’s top-performing new home consultants nationwide, continues to play a key role in the business. So too does Tony, the franchise’s long-standing construction manager and a major driver of build quality and consistency.

“We’ve got a great mix of new talent and proven leadership,” says Steven. “It’s a really capable team, and they all genuinely care about the homes we build and the people we’re building them for.” 

With strong foundations in place and demand continuing to grow, the future looks bright for Landmark Homes Hawke’s Bay. The region remains one of the most desirable places in the country to live, and confidence is steadily returning to the market as people look to invest in quality homes that stand the test of time.

“We’re seeing really solid enquiry,” says Steven. “People want to be here. They’re looking for a home that suits their lifestyle, and they want to work with a team that can guide them through the process.”

The franchise’s reputation is growing fast, thanks to a combination of award-winning design, proven systems, and a team that’s passionate about delivering a great experience from start to finish. With more builds underway, a standout new show home nearing completion, and an exciting pipeline of projects ahead, the team is ready to keep building momentum.

“Hawke’s Bay has so much potential,” says Steven. “We’ve got the people, we’ve got the systems, and now we’ve got the scale. It’s a really exciting time for us, and for the region.”

Thinking of building in Hawke’s Bay? Get in touch with the team to start your journey with Landmark Homes.