Some projects take time, vision, and the right relationships to come together. The design and build at 5 Ra Ora Drive in East Tāmaki was one of them, a project that spanned seven years from the first conversation in 2017 to completion in 2025.

The Starting Point

The site was a 2,000sqm bare block of land in East Tāmaki. The landowner, who had a long-standing relationship with David, one of our company directors, wanted to retain the property as part of their intergenerational wealth strategy rather than sell it. The challenge was to create long-term value from the land while securing a strong, stable tenant.

The Process

David worked closely with both the landowner and potential tenants to make it happen.

• Securing the tenant: After a careful search, David secured Hendrickson who is a leading American manufacturer and supplier of suspension and brake systems who were looking for a long-term premise.
• Designing to fit: Working with Hendrickson, David helped translate their operational needs into a design that maximised the site. The final building footprint reached 1,300sqm, covering 65% of the site to allow for better operational flow.
• Fit-for-purpose build: The property was tailored specifically for Hendrickson, including:
  • A concrete yard to accommodate container activity
  • Strong flooring to support heavy stock
  • Racking to five pallets high
  • Modern, sunny upstairs offices with polished concrete floors and secure access

After more than 20 years in a small Mt Wellington unit that no longer met their needs and was creating health and safety concerns, Hendrickson had clearly outgrown the space. Their new premises now provide the room, functionality, and security needed to support future growth.

Collaboration & Delivery

David managed the process from concept to completion:

• Preparing a bulk and location plan with an architect
• Adjusting designs through multiple iterations to meet both landlord and tenant needs
• Guiding the project through the builder tender process
• Leading lease negotiations and finalising agreements with legal teams

The Outcome

The result was a purpose-built facility that worked for all parties:

• The tenant gained a modern, efficient space designed around their operations.
• The landlord retained ownership of their land while securing a reliable long-term tenant.
• Our team proved the value of patience, collaboration, and trusted relationships in achieving an outcome that balanced everyone’s goals.

At the end of the day: happy landlord, happy tenant, happy agent.