The Team
Rodney Pope – Construction Manager & Co-founder
Born and raised on Waiheke, Rodney spent years working across the industry — from trade counters to building overseas — before coming home and making the deliberate choice to start his apprenticeship and learn the trade from the ground up.
As Construction Manager, Rodney oversees every project from first site visit through to final handover — managing trades, solving problems, and making sure every build meets his high standards. He is well known for his clear communication, expansive trade knowledge and friendly, approachable nature.
Trade Qualified Builder, Licensed Building Practitioner and Registered Certified Builder
Hayley Pope – Co-Owner, Operations & Marketing
While Rodney runs the builds, Hayley runs the business. She manages the marketing, communications, HR, and operations that keep Waiheke Home Builders moving — and supports Rodney in his role as Construction Manager. She’s often the first person new clients hear from, and takes that seriously. She’s proud of the team they’ve built and the systems that turn what can be a daunting process into an enjoyable one.
Tomas Otharan – Site Manager
Tomas joined Waiheke Home Builders in 2019 but worked in the construction industry for many years prior. A qualified engineer in Argentina, Tomas brings his skills and expertise to the building industry on Waiheke. He has great attention to detail, a strong work ethic, keeps cool under pressure and has a passion for building excellence.
Trade Qualified Builder and Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP)
Errol Hood – Site Manager
Errol completed his apprenticeship with Waiheke Home Builders after joining us in 2017. Errol is professional, dedicated, a great problem-solver and is always striving to improve his craft. His positive attitude and friendly nature is one of his greatest attributes and he brings an upbeat energy to our work sites.
Trade Qualified Builder and Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP)
Nathan Lauchlan — Trade Qualified Builder
Nathan spent years running his own building operation before joining the WHB team. Hardworking and genuinely passionate about the building industry, he brings a depth of real-world experience that’s hard to replicate.
Michael Hood — Plant Operator and Site Support
After working with us as a labourer for a few years, Michael firmly established himself as a machine operator. He has an excellent work ethic and a genuine desire to do a good job — whatever the task. When Michael’s not in the digger or behind the wheel of a truck, he’s Rodney’s right-hand man, working through his to-do list and supporting the team on site.
Thomas Robb — 3rd Year Apprentice Builder
