About Us
At Whio, we are on a mission to reshape New Zealand's perception of code minimum housing as the default choice. We firmly believe it's time for a change and Whio strive to a be part of the solution, not the problem. Our goal is to deliver higher quality housing to every Kiwi family, creating homes that are not just places to live but sanctuaries that are warm, dry, and conducive to well-being.
Our passion lies in using sustainable products and materials that are sustainable and environmentally friendly. We also use advanced production systems to enhance construction efficiency and minimise overall product wastage. This approach yields homes that are impeccably designed, robust, and promote both occupant well-being and environmental health, all while being highly energy-efficient.
Our commitment to these ideals is what has led us to join forces with Forever Breathe™. Together, we are dedicated to a future where homes are more than just structures; they are homes which are comfortable, sustainable and will stand the test of time.
What makes us..us?
Whio Homes are a small family team consisting of:
James Anderson
Managing Director
James is all about enhancing the quality of Kiwi homes, to meet global standards and promote the adoption of efficient building systems, without sacrificing style. With 20 years of experience in construction, he's not only a skilled painter, decorator, and carpenter, but also a proud family man with three energetic kids. When he's not at work, you'll find him enjoying a game of rugby or exploring the great outdoors.
Running the day to day operations of Whio, James loves passing on his know-how to his team and, of course, learning from them too. He's on a mission to show New Zealanders the benefits of efficient building systems while making sure every home is a masterpiece.
Leesa Anderson
Director
Coming from a farming background and launching her career as a certified Vet, Leesa has since transitioned her attention to raising three children and overseeing the management of Whio Homes as it continues to flourish. A passionate sports enthusiast and a true nature lover, Leesa loves discovering the breathtaking outdoors of New Zealand alongside friends and family.
Having experienced life in compact and less efficient homes in the past, while striving to accommodate the requirements of a busy family and maintain a healthy lifestyle, Leesa understands the need for clever space, great storage solutions and a healthy environment to support a busy family life.
Our Team
James and Leesa are supported by a great team of experienced tradesmen and apprentices. They have taken the time to recruit a team who believe in their vision, match the Whio values and take pride in providing an excellent standard of workmanship for each and every building project.
Whio is proud of the team environment they have built and truly appreciate the impact that the team has on the success of the business.
Why Whio?
When it came to naming the business, James and Leesa knew they didn’t want to go down the more standard route of naming the business after themselves. They wanted something which really meant something to them, was memorable, and a bit outside the box. Being lovers of the great outdoors, on their adventures they kept seeing and admiring all the native birds. An identifiable and quintessentially Kiwi name for the business made heaps of sense, naming it after a beautiful native bird was perfect!
The native blue duck, was particularly fascinating and really stuck in their minds. Its Māori name, Whio, which when pronounced correctly (Fee-oh) sound really beautiful, but the Whio also represented James and Leesa’s family and lifestyle perfectly too. The Whio lives in the rapids (fast flowing and hectic) so, their feet are kicking like mad under the surface to keep their heads above water, but on the surface they look calm and under control. Considering James and Leesa’s busy lifestyle with three children, a lifestyle block and a growing business, the Whio’s lifestyle and ability to keep it all under control (on the surface at least!) really struck a cord with them….and so, Whio Homes was born!