Ryan sits down with Master Builders CEO Ankit Sharma to unpack the government's $7 billion capital package and what it will actually take to turn that intention into real pipeline for the industry. They also dig into what Master Builders is hearing directly from members through its regional summit series, where over a thousand business leaders gathered this year, including the mindset gap between businesses that are merely surviving and those that are genuinely thriving right now.

Ankit shares real examples from the listening tour he conducted alongside the summits, including a Wellington builder turning AI into a customer communication tool and coming out more profitable than ever. The conversation closes with four practical principles from Ankit's recent LinkedIn article, and a teaser of the full listening tour findings coming to Constructive 2026, 3 to 4 September at the Aotea Centre, Auckland.

Useful links
Connect with Ankit Sharma on LinkedIn
When the Wind Changes, Great Leaders Tack
Subscribe to Rethink 4.0 Newsletter

Where else you can find us

Website: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/

Elevate Platform: http://elevate.masterbuilder.org.nz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterbuildernz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/registeredmasterbuilders

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmh_9vl0pFf0zSB6N7RrVeg

In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Andrew Eagles, CEO of the New Zealand Green Building Council, joins the conversation to unpack how healthier, more energy-efficient homes can create major financial advantages for both developers and homeowners. From lower-interest development finance to green mortgage offers, Andrew explains how Homestar certification is helping builders access funding benefits while delivering warmer, drier, and more comfortable homes.

Andrew shares practical insights into the Homestar process, common misconceptions around cost, and why many developments can achieve certification with only minor design changes. He also discusses the future of building standards in New Zealand, the growing influence of global green finance, and why energy performance ratings are likely to become a key part of every home sale. Packed with real-world examples, this episode is essential listening for builders, developers, and anyone interested in the future of residential construction in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Useful links:
The New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC)
Homestar™
Free Homestar Design Guide
Infometrics research

Where else you can find us

Website: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/

Elevate Platform: http://elevate.masterbuilder.org.nz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterbuildernz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/registeredmasterbuilders

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmh_9vl0pFf0zSB6N7RrVeg

In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Mark Metzger, Director of Metzger Builders, joins the conversation to share a behind-the-scenes look at the Registered Master Builders House of the Year Awards. With more than 35 years in the industry and multiple Supreme House of the Year titles to his name, Mark brings a unique perspective as both an award-winning builder and national judge.

Mark unpacks how the judging process really works — from travelling across the country and assessing homes, to the detailed scoring system that evaluates workmanship, design, and degree of difficulty. He shares what makes a home stand out, the importance of consistency and craftsmanship, and how the competition continues to raise standards across the industry. This episode offers valuable insights for builders considering entering, and a fascinating look at what excellence in residential construction truly means in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Useful links:
Metzger Builders https://www.mblexcellence.co.nz/
House of the Year Awards

Where else you can find us

Website: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/

Elevate Platform: http://elevate.masterbuilder.org.nz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterbuildernz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/registeredmasterbuilders

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmh_9vl0pFf0zSB6N7RrVeg