Now one of Wellington’s largest custom-built kitchen manufacturers, the family-owned company launched as a humble initial operation, recalls co-owner Tony Hawes.
“My wife, Sue, and I had been looking for a new direction for our business after eight years manufacturing commercial furniture in what was proving an irregular sector,” he says.
“Initially targeting the budget end of the kitchen renovation market, we set up a basic showroom and placed a good-sized advertisement in a local paper.
“We opened our doors on a Saturday morning and sold our first kitchen that day! Our first renovation customer even wrote out a cheque for the deposit on the spot.”
The Seaview-based company, which is now also owned by the couple’s daughter and son-in-law, Michelle and Daniel Norman, has made honouring such trust a cornerstone principle, emphasises Mr Hawes.
“From day one we have striven for the highest quality – never accepting anything substandard – and aimed to offer distinct points of difference to our competitors.
“We are one of the few companies in the Wellington market that offers a full, start-to-end service – from bespoke kitchen design, onsite manufacturing and assembly, through to installation and after-care.
“It’s also about being reliable – always delivering on time – and treating our clients well. We employ dedicated project managers who go onsite personally to oversee the smooth installation of our joinery.”
Over the years the company has evolved to specialise in the design, manufacture and installation of bespoke mid to high-end kitchens and other joinery, says Ms Norman.
“We now employ a team of about 25 people, have invested in cutting-edge factory machinery and offer the latest hardware available to the New Zealand market,” she says.
However, the family and community values remain.
“Our work family is hugely important to us. We offer flexible working hours, apprenticeships and other career advancement opportunities.
“We also very much believe in working with local suppliers and produce as much as we can onsite.
“Giving back to the community in different ways is another priority. Examples include working with a local secondary school to provide student work experience and supporting local hospices.”
Furthermore, the company is actively trying to act “think green” throughout its operations, adds Mr Hawes.
“We are moving towards a paperless environment and have lessened waste in our manufacturing processes. We also donate to the Trees for Survival initiative, which involves schoolchildren rejuvenating the country’s landscape.”
Mr Hawes emphasises the company – which covers Wellington City through to Porirua, the Hutt Valley and surrounding areas – is confidently eyeing the future.
“As we celebrate this important milestone in our history, we would like to thank our past and current customers, many of whom have been repeat clients over the years.
“Despite the challenging economic environment, we are positioning ourselves for future growth, and look forward to continuing to deliver quality service for many more years to come.”
To mark its 25th anniversary, the business is planning several celebratory events and promotions (details of which will be announced on the company’s website and social media channels).
For further information, please contact Mastercraft Kitchens Wellington co-owner Michelle Norman michelle.norman@mastercraft.co.nz, 027 677 3711.