Beautiful balance

In the second of Guthrie Bowron Tauranga’s Design Elements series, we look at the importance of balance when considering changes or updates to your home.

Balance in its essence is the arrangement of elements in a room to create a sense of harmony and equilibrium. It's a key principle of interior design that helps make a space feel comfortable and visually appealing.

Balance is a principle that ensures that no single element in a room overpowers another in terms of visual weight or dominance. There are different types of balance, each having their own unique visual kudos.

Symmetrical balance

The art deco inspired hallway (top) uses symmetrical balance brilliantly. The focal point is clear, and the mirroring of the paint colour archway either side reinforces the central axis. The two simple cane chairs and their upholstery perfectly reflect the Fleur de Joie Paprika/Aqua wallpaper from Harlequin Idyllic Retreat behind them, creating a uniformed and harmonious look and feel to the space.

Asymmetry balance

Symmetrical may be too ‘perfect’ an approach for some, as not all spaces suit the uniformed look of order that symmetry provides. Here is where asymmetrical comes into play, providing a more dynamic, informal look. In this example showing the Kent Khroma Anemone and Malva wallpaper collections (above), the key here is to balance visual weights, textures and colour. See how the heavy curved scotias and panels sit surprisingly successfully within the lighter more delicate olive and taupe palette.

Asymmetrical balance can be harder to achieve, but if it’s done well, it can make a space so much more interesting and alive. The reason for this is that it creates tension and surprise in a room with the visually unexpected by way of paint colour, wallpaper pattern and placement and scale of decorative elements.

You can, of course, implement both asymmetry and symmetry together, to create a more interesting and dynamic design scheme.

Radial balance

Radial balance utilises a central focal point where design elements radiate outward or inwards to the central point. In this example, Agathe Khroma by Masureel (above), the circular sofa, tables and placement of the outer lounge chairs create a radial pattern reinforced by the curve of the face in the wallpaper pattern, and the window frame and choice of side tables.

The use of radial balance is a popular choice for hospitality and commercial spaces as they often create stunning results.

Using the skill, expertise and experience of an interior designer, window treatment consultant or colour specialist to get you on the right ‘balanced’ track, can save you time, energy and open up the world of design possibilities to you.

For more inspiring ideas, visit Guthrie Bowron’s Cameron Road showroom.

GUTHRIEBOWRON.CO.NZ

Ebb and flow

Minutes from Katikati, this secluded waterfront paradise with panoramic harbour views is a rare lifestyle gem.

words JO FERRIS

Herons drop in to share nature within this waterfront haven. Views gaze across Tauranga Harbour, right down to Tauranga, where city lights twinkle at night. A sandy beach on the waterfront reserve awaits to push the boat out and fish in the harbour. For ocean jaunts and bigger game, larger vessels can be launched from the Long Beach Reserve boat ramp nearby.

This is ultimate serenity – seclusion within a waterfront headland minutes from Katikati – recognised for its friendly, village ambience and easy commutes to Tauranga on one side and Auckland on the other. But only if you want to. Everything you need is already here.

Home to these vendors for 22 years, gated entry to this established avocado orchard ensures privacy is absolute – the world left behind, tranquillity and harbour link proving why they have loved this lifestyle for so long.

Timeless elegance and smart design ensure views and nature remain the stars. Downstairs’ bedrooms all enjoy personal access to the verandah sweeping along the home. Every living area also opens outdoors, while bi-fold windows in the kitchen ensure alfresco relaxation is well catered for. Upstairs, the spacious master retreat has the added benefit of privacy, with elevated views and a balcony to cherish it all in peace and quiet.

Revolving around entertainment, this aspect is introduced the moment the front door opens. The foyer frames the harbour outlook, but also divides family living and the lounge – a feature that instils different moods to each area.

There is a third mood in this home, however. Sitting at the far end and linked with the garage, a multi-purpose room invites numerous options. Also connected with the garden and, complete with a benchtop and sink, it enhances this area’s purpose, be it leisure, exercise or work.

Gazing out to the massive waterfront sweep, there is potential to enhance recreation here. Leading out from the home, gentle formality in the garden is easy-care. As it steps down to the playground lawn, this open expanse offers endless opportunity. A pool, cricket, golf, or all three? There’s certainly room here.

A discreetly-placed shed with mezzanine, storage, kitchenette, bathroom and laundry complements orchard production – either working it as lifestyle option or opting for management with any of the local providers.

Every day is a new day, fishing or cruising the harbour, venturing out to sea and Mayor Island, or simply cherishing the seclusion and tranquillity – along with the herons.

258E Beach Road, Katikati

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Country class

Elevated Oropi living with stylish design and family-focused spaces, this modern retreat blends nature, privacy and possibility.

words JO FERRIS

Nestled behind a fringe of manuka trees, this home’s introduction hides one of its biggest features: stunning scenery. Views embrace rolling farmland around the house, down to the city, the harbour and ocean. Mauao is majestic, yet it seems dwarfed by the magnificence of Mayor Island/Tūhua behind. Gazing right up to the Coromandel, these views set the stage for a beautiful lifestyle from this lofty position.

As a recent build, the home revolves around family, entertaining and intimate connection with nature. Oropi has escaped much of the horticultural development that has swept the countryside elsewhere in this region.

While not devoid of neighbours, clever landscaping instils enough seclusion, while still inviting weekend gatherings. Parent privacy is absolute. A five-star retreat sits in its own wing, away from the remaining three bedrooms, at the far end. This feature alone, gives children or guests their own space; an elegant bathroom to share and separate powder room for added convenience.

Every bedroom basks in views, however – either down the valley or out to the countryside. Particularly exquisite is the eastern view towards Pāpāmoa Hills and an historic pa site.

An office, study nook and storage enhance the design and convenience within the parent wing, while clever flow increases practical aspects of family life. Each zone interconnects, yet remains defined – storage maximising space wherever possible. At the heart of it all, relaxation and entertainment are centre stage – the family hub showcasing soaring ceilings with contemporary trusses and barn door feature.

The bespoke kitchen has a scullery to keep prep and pantry storage out of sight. Modern farmhouse styling also showcases the love of bold colour – dark denim cabinetry the perfect complement to the tone and texture that instils personality throughout this home.

Dark woodgrain flooring in this family hub adds depth, while being on trend and practical for life in the country.

Features throughout this home accentuate innovative design elements. A cloak room off the foyer and guest powder room, cushioned window seats in bedrooms and shelving in both living areas – perfect for books, artwork and special items.

As the home slips outdoors to the loggia and playground expanse, there is room to develop this property further – a pool, tennis or mini golf, perhaps?

Fruit trees are already in place, while dedicated veggie and herb boxes sit off the kitchen for easy access. Built with forethought, nature meets lifestyle with originality and nuance in this idyllic Oropi setting.

1115B Oropi Rd, Oropi OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Town and country

French-inspired elegance meets New Zealand heritage at this grand estate, offering timeless craftsmanship and luxurious comfort across every detail.

words JO FERRIS

New Zealand architecture has a unique ability to adapt global influences to suit local aesthetics in ways that give greater credence to this country’s way of life.

This home’s grandeur begins at the private entry, as the green-belted driveway slides past an established avocado orchard. Fully managed by Ashlin Avos, this aspect removes any thoughts of hands-on work to offer the prospect of passive income and country lifestyle.

The welcome is imposing – gabled roofing pays homage to grand estates of old, with weatherboard construction matching that character in a contemporary way. Impressive double rimu doors, with their leadlight insets, suggest native timber and heritage features will continue inside; and this home certainly showcases its appreciation of traditional craftmanship.

The kitchen takes its cue from French country styling – blending marble and timber with intricate precision. Colour choices complement the theme, while instilling an intimate mood that enriches bar-stool gatherings around the large rimu island and formal dining.

Views stretch outside to the swimming pool and garden. Cathedral ceilings enhance the space, bespoke lighting blends character, while hand-beaten pewter hardware catches the light in subtle harmony.

The mood lightens in the family lounge – its softer tone and texture a clever contrast between the darker flavour of the kitchen/dining hub and formal lounge either side.

Deep-coloured carpet in the lounge is a smart contrast to the oak laminate flooring in family living. The formal lounge doubles as a home theatre, thanks to a built-in projector and speakers. Eyes also draw to the antique kauri mantel embracing the gas fire; a feature repeated in family living.

While the warm flicker of flame is an asset in both rooms, the ground floor boasts 10-zone hydronic underfloor heating, heated primarily with a diesel furnace.

Living areas all flow outside to expansive patio settings and a tranquil garden backdrop. Hidden neatly within a fringe of camelia hedging, the swimming pool melts into this serene setting. Four bedrooms include a sumptuous master retreat upstairs, with its balcony gaze over the garden below; plus a second ensuite bedroom.

Remaining bedrooms are downstairs; one shares semi-ensuite access to another bathroom, while all three boast heritage Perrin & Powel fittings, marble and oak cabinetry, plus underfloor heating.

Luxury features continue through to a large laundry – designed around ‘mud room’ convenience for country lifestyle.

With three-car garaging and ample parking to welcome visitors, this home is the epitome of refined living – a country estate that brings heritage into the modern day.

80 Oliver Road, Te Puna OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

A legacy to love

At Lemon Grove, grace and history stand tall, with elegant architecture, breathtaking harbour views, and a century-old beech tree anchoring its story.

words JO FERRIS

Heritage and sentiment share a natural synergy – history ever present in this home’s journey through time; as each owner added new chapters along the way.

Known to many who live in and around Lemon Grove Avenue, the towering beech tree gracing this home’s entry is seen far and wide. If trees could only talk, memories would run deep.

As it turns out, memories not only run deep, they stretch around the world – to England, where the son of this home’s developer still remembers his early childhood here. Built in 1932 for a Mr Knowles, this English engineer had moved to New Zealand to follow his dream to grow lemons on this Ōtūmoetai site.

Originally covering some 30 acres, this address was named accordingly. A far cry from what exists now, the house started out as a single-level farmhouse in solid stucco with a terracotta tile roof.

After the birth of her son, Mrs Knowles planted a beech tree when he was two years old. Sadly, she missed England so much, the family returned home a year later. Despite his youth, the son never forgot the home; missing it his entire life – even making visits over the years to see the dramatic changes it underwent.

Now two levels – the second storey was added in the ‘40s by a Dr Kenney, who used the house as a surgery and convalescent home. The next owners subdivided and sold the surrounding land – adding their own mark to the property with a swimming pool, creating a large terrace and loggia at the same time.

As the beech tree grew, the grounds were developed and nurtured over the years to resemble the formality of an English country garden with hedgerows, specimen trees and wisteria.

Records also show that the home has been used for a knitting business and at one point was split into three flats.

The current owners fell in love the moment they saw this home nine years ago – lured by the landmark towering beech; but also, the size and scale of the property, plus the harbour view to Mauao and beyond.

Having lived overseas for many years, they wanted to return to New Zealand to continue raising their family. The space was vastly different from what they had left – a house of substance and around 1600 square metres of grounds, offering the sheltered privacy of a pool, gardens and large playground lawn for cricket and croquet. North-facing and elevated, the sweeping harbour panorama can be seen from every room, bar the laundry.

Impressive in its design, the solid rimu kitchen with its marble benches is a standout. Elegant living areas revolve around entertainment and link to the outdoors and terrace settings. A study, guest bedroom, heritage bathroom and laundry sit downstairs, while the ensuite master retreat and three more bedrooms sit upstairs – all basking in the stunning views.

Joining this home’s handful of owners who have loved life here, the time has come to pass the heritage on to another family. Every owner has done something to the home – either dramatically through extension; or cosmetically.

Committed to maintaining the home’s character, these vendors have redecorated throughout – preparing its upkeep with respect and mindful of its essence. A particularly poignant aspect concerns a letter these owners now have as a reminder of that little three-year old who never forgot this home. Now in his 80s, upon hearing a niece was coming to New Zealand, he wrote a letter for her to give to them. Just as he never forgot the home of his childhood, these owners will take their own memories with them – a letter in hand, marking the bond between generations and a home – history and sentiment forever intertwined.

39 Lemon Grove Avenue, Ōtūmoetai OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Elegance defined

Perched on a ridge with commanding views, this distinguished residence and premium avocado orchard unite to create one of the Bay of Plenty's most prestigious, perfectly crafted lifestyle properties.

words JO FERRIS

Bought for the exquisite panorama from Mauao, Matakana and harbour to the Kaimais, this elevated ridge was virtually a blank canvas. Nothing remains externally of the original house; only the shelter belts and concrete driveway strips.

Constructed by former boat builder turned house builder Tony Farley, an obsession for detail both by Farley and the owners entailed a lengthy journey to perfection.

Its Hamptons theme blends quality with a focus on views and intimate outdoor flow. Designed as a boutique bed and breakfast, Ridgeton has earned praise from guests who cherished this exquisite seclusion.

The privacy afforded in the lower level is equally appealing as a family residence, however. An elegant lounge and four bedrooms all open outdoors to bask in the scenery amid various verandah settings. One bedroom has its own ensuite, while another has semi ensuite access to the bathroom shared by remaining bedrooms. A powder room enhances the convenience, while design genius combines a private laundry, kitchenette and cloakroom feature.

Significant storage also uses every possible space – including the stairwell. Upstairs privacy elevates this home’s prestige and command of scenery.

The five-star master retreat greets sunrise and bathes in Mauao’s glory; spacious luxury enjoying the indulgence of a bathroom for two and fitted dressing room.

Open-plan living takes full advantage of natural light and scenery. Eyes feast on the kitchen – imported Palazzo glass cabinetry cleverly finished in a matte white sheen and stainless steel hardware accentuating the quality. Nothing dominates, features stand out simply due to tasteful finish and detail; accents showcased on the likes of tiled splashbacks and solid oak elements on flooring and bathroom vanities.

Wrap-around decking follows the sun all day; glass balustrades ensure all views are seamless. When the sun does dip behind the Kaimais, rainbow beams f licker off the crystal chandelier as fairy lights in the lounge. Nuance and nature are balanced by high specifications in this home and graceful garden. It exudes romance amid secluded tranquillity – settings to reflect throughout the day and evening – under the verandah, amid floral fragrance or beneath the alfresco bower, where espaliered citrus plantings will eventually cover the trellis roofing.

Genius is everywhere, including the avocados. Planted in 2020, this high density orchard is a pioneer of the industry’s future; part of the extraordinary invitation this property extends. Graceful in design, refined with detail; Ridgeton has reached a milestone – ready for a new chapter.

46 Prestidge Rd, Aongatete OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Above and beyond

The height of luxury in a private Minden enclave, this bespoke residence harmonises innovative design with the tranquillity of its lush surroundings.

words JO FERRIS

Life has a habit of moving the goalposts. Designed as this couple’s forever home, new priorities now invite someone else to change their own destiny. A beautiful home, in an exquisite setting – cocooned in a sheltered Minden valley – amid a private community.

Tucked at the end of a small enclave, the house stands above its neighbours – seemingly built into the hillside, with its bush backdrop of pongas and natives.

Towering banks envelop the home amid nature and birdsong; deceptive size and scale that includes a playground lawn.

Given the extent of lush gardens, it’s hard to believe this house was completed just five years ago. The owners wanted a future-proofed, timeless look. Without that knowledge, it’s easy to overlook how cleverly this home facilitates flexible living. A significant two-level residence – with a 2.7 metre stud throughout – it is designed with generous, wide passages and doorways for proportion convenience and a lift for access upstairs.

Colin Davis of Davista Architecture changed nothing in the owners’ vision for their family hub, merely playing with elements elsewhere to perfect the final flair. Built by 90 Degrees Construction, the attention to detail is flawless. The kitchen and dining hub is the centre of entertainment. Black cabinetry features a specially-mixed double lacquer – matte not gloss. Black engineered Caesarstone covers the bar-stool island, while an interesting finish of Dekton in the scullery adds a unique contrast.

The splashback is also purpose made – another single sheet that mimics smashed antique glass.

Dining caters for crowds; its soaring ceiling and bespoke lighting just one of this home’s many talking points. Linked with a mezzanine lounge above, a glass balustrade allows connection below, while ensuring a seamless view of scenery through the ascending wall of glass.

A kitchenette increases the convenience for family and guests, while bedrooms either side enjoy personal space.

Tone and texture dominate this home’s intrigue – highlighted with high-end Italian porcelain floor tiling in the family hub and passage. It was selected specifically for endurance and the deceptive look of dark oak timber.

An office downstairs could double as another bedroom, while the master retreat revolves around romantic privacy. A waterfall garden framed by a full-length window embraces nature, but the ensuite is pure indulgence. An oval bath for two, picture glazing framing a tropical garden and outdoor flow to enjoy the birdsong.

Detail and luxury underpin every aspect of this secluded haven. Surprise and innovation are everywhere – a home for today, designed for the future.

8 Minden Hill Lane, Minden

OLIVERROADBAYOFPLENTY.COM

Zen by design

East meets west in this stunning home’s Japanese-inspired aesthetic.

Words Jo Ferris

This Mount Maunganui home’s dramatic street-front greeting showcases a striking look born in Japan. Yakisugi’s authentic process of charring sugi cedar not only improves the timber’s life span, it adds another layer to this home’s haunting story. 

It’s a story of evolvement – from this home’s birth in 1956 to a stunning epitome of the Mount’s coastal vibe.
The weatherboard construction remains, but that’s about all. Over the years, different owners have embedded their own mark. The vivid allure of black, vertical shiplap on walls curving around this home’s lower area are a fitting imprint by these vendors.  

Stunning aesthetics aside, two hidden elements enhance this driveway’s function. Power in one corner offers
a charge point for vehicles and parking for a motorhome. A gas point in a recess allows for the addition of screen doors to hide bottles and utility bins.

The garage is another improvement by these owners. Lined over block, carpeted and finished with extra detail, it is now a multi-purpose zone. An internal stairwell leads up to the first level. For visitors, the

sugi-clad steps sweep up through a coastal-themed garden, where resident tuis haunt the pōhutukawa. They’re so frequent and familiar, these owners have even named them.

Other than original native timber flooring throughout the home, the décor was completely transformed by prior owners.

One intriguing feature pays homage to the construction. A distressed weather-board panel hanging on a passage wall as a work of art, is actually a disguise for the hot water cylinder behind.

Apart from one original window in the master bedroom, joinery was replaced with double-glazed aluminium. Plywood is a statement element that instils tone and texture in key areas. Feature walls showcase ply’s natural blonde finish, while black negative detailing makes a striking effect in-between the panels. Kitchen cabinetry is finished in laminated plywood, while timeless stainless steel benches are a practical surface cooks will appreciate. 

Open-plan living and outdoor flow maximises space to connect with areas outside. A morning balcony at the front gazes out to sea. At the rear, there’s an intimate link with a secluded backyard oasis. The third bedroom also opens out to this sun deck and shelter from afternoon breeze within this tropical sanctuary. It’s an easy-care garden – with a corner for veges and a hidden sink bench for filleting fish.

The master bedroom commands the front-row ocean view. A second living area above, elevates this to a grandstand coastal outlook. With glimpses to three islands, Motiti sits directly in front and waves can be seen lapping on the beach. This is a spacious, multi-purpose zone – an invitation for leisure or work. With sun streaming inside, an air conditioning unit keeps life cool in hot weather. There are two more heat pumps elsewhere, plus a wood burner. Highly efficient, it’s another feature which matches this home’s distinctive vibe.

Within walking distance to the beach and cafes, this impressive home awaits another chapter. Inspection is invited, and more information is available on Oliver Road Real Estate’s website. 

Oliverroadestateagents.com

Sustainability in bloom

Mitre 10 MEGA Tauranga has come of age – leading the way on all things green with a new-look garden centre and strong focus on sustainability.

Words Jo Ferris | Photos Jahl Marshall

Mitre 10 MEGA Tauranga has come of age – leading the way on all things green with a new-look garden centre and strong focus on sustainability.

With fresh ideas, new technology and their ‘arms-wide-open’ approach, nothing rains on this team’s parade. Now fully roofed, the only place rain falls inside is in two 30,000L tanks.

Feeding a sophisticated irrigation system, it not only eliminates using town supply, plants are flourishing – noticeably so. Staff efficiency has also gained. Despite the new technology – rather than downsizing the garden centre’s team – it has increased from 14 to 25, as supervisor Lorena Stead and 2 IC Marisa Pirina shift up another gear.

“Spring is our busiest time of the year. It’s like turning the lights on,” says Lorena.

Customer focus underpins this store’s entire purpose. That means people on the floor and more time to greet and help customers. The café moved instore, but still overlooks all the activity. Opening up the garden centre not only created additional space for more stock, visibility increased thanks to new, lower plant bays. The Garden Hub is also a novel drawcard – a central station which enhances staff’s ability to handle customer queries. Just outside is the plastic pot recycling bin – another sustainability initiative, which has seen 900kgs recycled in the past 10 months. And that’s not counting any containers foraged by customers. Mitre 10 even takes polystyrene – number one in New Zealand to do so.

Changes also flowed instore. By definition, ‘garden’ has assumed an entirely new meaning.

More than a green space for trees, flowers and veges; outdoor zones are another room – an extension of how we live, play, entertain – even work. Anything from a simple patio now extends to sophisticated retreats – fully sheltered or open-air; lit and heated. As much as gardens grow, so has this store’s vision, according to Lorena.

“Gardens are another room in the home. But there’s also the internal garden – indoor plants – not only but also.”

Specialty zones cover the full gamut – from indoor plants, tools, plant care, ornaments and rainwater storage systems to probably the Bay’s largest selection of outdoor furniture, BBQs and every accessory to match. If you can’t find it, this store will seek it. Being owner- operated and part of a solely New Zealand co-operative, buying power and access to a wide range of products strengthens this hugely successful business.

Innovation and a "people first" mantra feed this store’s belief in mutually beneficial relationships – from everyone who walks in the door to everyone on the shop floor.

Newbies to long-timers, staff know their stuff; and they know people. Customers come from far and wide, such is the store’s reputation for familiarity. It’s an attitude Mitre 10 MEGA Tauranga continually works on. And customers feel it. Regulars watched closely as the garden centre remained open throughout the renovation. Written feedback was overwhelming and staff are grateful.

Inspired by the new look, Lorena and Marisa say customers love all the initiatives as well – especially how
plants respond to the new irrigation. Both agree the garden centre looks and feels brighter. True to the "spring has sprung" philosophy, team members are also thriving – watching their garden grow as natural rain waters it from above. 

mitre10.co.nz

Breaking new ground

At the flooring industry’s coal face, men dominate the hands-and-knees’ work, but this mother and daughter duo are bucking the trend. 

Words Jo Ferris / Photos Alan Gibson

Sarah and Caitlin Tavendale might not install flooring; but from go to whoa, theirs are the faces customers see most. It’s a unique situation – and relationship. Not only do they own and operate a Harrisons Carpets and Flooring franchise each, they are the only mother and daughter in New Zealand to do so. Furthermore, Caitlin – at 24 – is the youngest owner in the country. She was just 22 when offered a franchise, fresh out of university. With a drive to succeed and a passion for interior design, there was no stopping her.

Sarah had already been in the Harrisons family for more than two years - a big step, but not as daunting. Seventeen years as a legal executive and several years as a co-owner in a recruitment company, was followed by an intensive nine years as operations manager for a family fishing business.

“It was time to do something for myself, something I was passionate about and had more control.”

That opportunity arose when Harrisons’ previous owner in Tauranga wanted to retire. Meeting Harrisons’ criteria, Sarah threw herself into invigorating a business she knew was ready for some fresh ideas.

“It was either sink or swim – so I jumped right in.”

Utilising Harrisons’ systems and flying solo, Sarah increased business within 12 months, expanded her installation teams and moved premises. By definition, that doesn’t mean a public showroom, but having a well-equipped warehouse to run a better operation. 

The Harrisons’ model is mobile. Hands on. Same branding, systems and products. Otherwise, it’s all about the franchisees. In Sarah and Caitlin’s case – they are the only people customers see, until contractors move in. Even then, these women remain hands on until the end.

 It’s pivotal to this duo’s success – that, and an exceptionally close relationship. Not all mothers and daughters can work together; even get on, at times. These women are not only great friends, but share ideas and visions for both businesses – usually over a glass of wine.

Gaining a degree in HR and commercial law, Caitlin admits she didn’t know what she wanted to do, initially. Helping Sarah with office administration, her plan was to head to Australia. Then Covid hit. Followed by something else that changed their lives.

With Tauranga’s exploding growth, the opportunity arose to buy a new area. Caitlin wasn’t sure – until interviews and initial concerns by head office cemented a stronger desire to succeed. Even Sarah had initial hesitations, not on Caitlin’s ability, but more about her own reservations. Between them now, they cover Tauranga North and Tauranga Central – early Papamoa down the Mount coastline and from Greerton to Waihi Beach.

Eighteen months on, Caitlin is as passionate as her mother. Sharing premises, they now employ permanent office staff and have several contractor teams.

Life is full on. Working out of the familiar Harrisons’ branded vans – both women believe the mobile model is key. However, it’s their one-on-one approach, often working together in their desire to help people choose the right products, textures and colours for their homes. Taking samples to the home eliminates homeowners running back and forth – as consultations are all handled within their own space.

For these women, people don’t just buy a product, it’s about the service.

As a brand, Harrisons was highly recommended by Readers Digest in its 2022 most trusted list. Sarah and Caitlin are proud to belong to that wider acclaim.  

“We’re proud of what we have achieved so far, and look forward to the future.”

Dynamic women – obviously with much more up their sleeves. 

harrisonscarpet.co.nz