Broader Outcomes

At Holmes, we believe our work should make a lasting, positive difference - not just in the finished product, but in how we get there. We take pride in working responsibly, supporting our kaimahi, and strengthening hapori engagement in the regions where we operate.

Environmental (Taiao) Impact

We are realistic about our environmental footprint and proactive in reducing it. Our approach focuses on practical, measurable actions that make sense for both our business and the earth.

Reducing emissions: In 2023, our partnership with Gazley enabled us to replace every vehicle across our business, saving over 20 tonnes of carbon emissions annually. We have also recently replaced four work vans with lower-emission alternatives.

Solar power at Greytown office: Our Greytown office features a solar system. This reduces operational energy costs and demonstrates our commitment to energy-efficient, future-focused practices.

Recycling and waste reduction: We prioritise smart waste management and responsible material selection. At the Carterton Events Centre, we used recycled materials, locally milled timber from JNL Mill, and designed for recyclability to reduce transport emissions. We are members of ECHO, the national e-waste recycling programme, and in September received a Certificate of Recycling for diverting 97 kg of e-waste from landfill.

Environmentally certified materials: We specify FSC-certified timber, low-VOC paints, and other sustainable products that improve air quality and ensure long-lasting results.

Energy-efficient practices: Motion-sensor lighting, energy audits, and structured waste separation systems across sites and offices help embed good environmental habits.

Cultural (Ahurea) Impact

We take pride in working respectfully within the cultural and social fabric of each hapori. Every project is an opportunity to listen, learn, and reflect local identity with ngākau pono.

Culturally significant projects: Holmes has delivered projects such as Te Kura Kaupapa Māori, Carterton Events Centre, and Te Puia, engaging iwi and mana whenua throughout design and construction.

Te reo Māori and cultural inclusion: We are introducing bilingual signage across our sites, ensuring translations are accurate and delivered with respect.

Cultural participation: Our teams take part in site karakia, ceremonies, and other tikanga on culturally important projects, acknowledging the significance of the work, whenua, and the people who have gone before.

Community giving: In 2023, we donated Te Reo “Learn to Read” books to Wellington primary schools and Ronald McDonald House, supporting te reo Māori learning and whānau in need. We also regularly donate to schools in the region.

Partnerships and suppliers: Holmes is a registered Amotai buyer, partnering with Māori and Pasifika-owned businesses wherever possible. We maintain strong relationships with local suppliers and subcontractors, keeping skills and spend within the community.

Economic Impact (Ōhanga)

We aim to build stronger, more resilient local economies through how we hire, spend, and invest.

Local investment: Our “buy local” policy prioritises regional suppliers and subcontractors, balancing safety, quality, and value.

Sponsorships and giving back: We support Wellington Free Ambulance, Life Flight, Coastguard NZ, local sports teams, and community events - strong hapori are actively built, not assumed.

Employment and training opportunities: Our apprenticeship and development programmes create sustainable career pathways and strengthen the construction workforce across Aotearoa. We work with training providers and community organisations to provide opportunities for emerging talent from diverse backgrounds. Currently, we are partnering with Mana College to give students hands-on experience through a specific project, providing a pathway into the construction industry. We also work closely with Le Fale, engaging their members, subcontractors, and local businesses to enable participation in community projects. Alongside Mana Training College, we continue to support apprentice recruitment, community engagement, and access to construction sites to develop the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

Supporting SMEs and social enterprises: Where possible, we work with small-to-medium local businesses and social enterprise suppliers, contributing to local growth and meaningful employment.

Volunteering opportunities: We are exploring structured company volunteer days, enabling staff to give back during work hours and make tangible community impacts.

Social (Pāpori) Impact

Our tangata are at the heart of what we do. We aim to provide a safe, supportive environment where everyone feels valued, cared for, and proud of their work.

Worksite and wellbeing improvements: We’ve invested in dust extraction, ventilation, and robust safety practices to create cleaner, safer worksites. Health and safety isn’t a box to tick - it’s a culture we live by.

Health and wellbeing initiatives: Employees receive full health insurance, with regular health checks and safety refreshers reinforcing our commitment to physical wellbeing and hauora. We also support industry initiatives like Mates in Construction, giving our team access to counselling and wellbeing resources. While we don’t yet have a dedicated in-house programme, we are exploring discounted gym memberships and additional wellbeing benefits for our people.

Training and apprenticeships: We are committed to growing talent from within. We currently have 11 apprentices - around 14% of our workforce. Over the past five years, we’ve supported more than 38 apprentices across the Holmes Group, with dedicated mentors assigned to create a supportive, skills-focused learning environment.

Ongoing training programmes include:
Site Safe Gold Passport, First Aid, Manual Handling Workshop, Ramset & Hilti licenses, Accident/Incident Investigation & Prevention (US17601), Safety Representative Training, Supervisor Training, Level 4 Construction Site Supervisor Certificate, Level 5 Main Contract Supervision, Unit Standards for manual handling, working at height, safety harness, elevated work platform, MATES in Construction, BCITO Level 4 & 5 Carpentry/Joinery, PITO Landscape Apprenticeship, BCITO Foundation Construction.

Team connection and culture: We host BBQs, Friday morning teas, team get togethers, weekly quiz challenges, charity golf days, and quiz nights to bring our people together.

Community engagement: Holmes Group actively supports local and national charities:

National: Life Flight, Coastguard NZ, The Cancer Society, Kārearea Foundation, NAWIC, Movember, The Kids Foundation (IDFNZ), Ronald McDonald House.

Wairarapa: Wairarapa College Hockey, Greytown Xmas Festival, Hospice Wairarapa, Wairarapa Cricket Association, Greytown Rugby Club, Dalefield Hockey, Autism annual party, various local school fundraising and sports clubs.

Wellington: Phoenix Football Academy, Wellington Lions Rugby, Barnardos Golf Day, Upper Hutt Rams, Relay For Life, Brain Injured Kids - Kiwi Circus, Wellington Olympic Football, Special Needs Children Party, Kids Foundation (PID).

Canterbury: Christchurch Boys Basketball Team Sponsor, Bros for Change, Tūhono Kapa Haka Festival.

… and many more initiatives that allow our teams to volunteer, fundraise, and make hands-on contributions.