About Us
OUR STORY
At Downright Construction we love what we do. We are driven and passionate about creating new homes and putting the wow factor into your extensions and renovations, Downright Construction was founded by Dan Hawke-Mills in 2016. He was joined by business partner Dillon O’Leary in 2017. Together they are the heart, brains and energy behind Downright Construction.
Dillon and Dan initially worked alongside each other as apprentices – where both formed a mutual respect for the other’s diligence and skills – before going their separate ways, but it wasn’t to be for long. The next time their paths crossed they joined forces to make Downright Construction the business it is today.
New Zealand owned and operated, Downright Construction was formed out of a desire by both founders for a building company that really believes in quality, service, workmanship and overcoming challenges that few others had an appetite for.
Created with mutually firm ideas on the value of craftmanship, integrity, transparency and trustworthiness – a spirit epitomised in the name – Downright Construction specialises in high-end new homes and complex extensions and renovations.
Given the complexities of building and compliance, Downright Construction sees every project as a collaboration between builder and customer. When you build or renovate with Downright Construction, you’re doing so with a team that’s in your corner – we passionately believe in achieving a quality finish on time and at a reasonable price.
Trust Downright Construction to be your full-service Auckland building partner.
DAN
HAWKE-MILLS
co-director
Following in the footsteps of his father, uncles and grandfathers, you could say construction is in the blood for Dan. It’s hardly surprising that he knows building sites like he knows the back of his hand.
With generations of knowledge and more than 13 years of building experience, Dan brings a wide set of experience and plenty of passion to your project. When you work with Downright Construction, Dan is likely the first person you will meet. Professional and service orientated, Dan derives immense satisfaction in working with you to take your project from planning to completion.
Dan’s role includes, but is not limited to, sales and quoting, client relationships, and contracts. He is well versed in the art of getting your consents processed through council.
DILLON
O’LEARY
co-director
With a decade in construction under his belt, Dillon brings extensive construction knowledge and experience to your project, from foundation to finish. Conscientious and with a precise eye for detail, Dillon is the on and off site project manager and the perfect person to personally oversee your project.
Motivated by excellent craftsmanship, Dillon keeps up to date with the latest innovations and technology in construction because he loves nothing better than completing your project to the highest levels of quality, on time and on budget.
No project is too daunting or difficult for Dillon, who is always excited for a new challenge and the chance to continually exceed any and all expectations.
THE TEAM
IAN
A qualified builder and site foreman, you will find Ian is a respectful and friendly character with great communication skills. He prides himself on being a well-rounded builder in all areas of construction.
JOE
A Downright Construction foreman with more than 10 years building experience under his belt, you will find that Joe is a problem solver who always enjoys a challenge. He is a true leader and prides himself on quality craftsmanship and astute attention to detail.
Nate
Nathan, also known as Nate, has five years’ experience in the building industry and is currently in his third year of his BCITO carpentry apprenticeship. He has a positive and keen attitude, and he is always eager to learn more to develop his skills as a carpenter.
Luke
Luke worked for several years as a landscaper before making the decision to further hone his building skills. He is currently completing his BCITO apprenticeship and is focussed on learning all he can from his fellow team members. Luke is known for his great attitude towards any and every task that is thrown his way.
Mia
Mia is Downright Construction’s behind-the-scenes team member responsible for managing the administrative side of each project. She allocates and schedules subcontractors, often liaising closely with them regarding required specifications and quality control. Mia also assists with client management documentation and control procedures. She is always happy to assist and make sure client needs are met.
Renee
Renee is Downright Construction’s Marketing Manager. Although you won't often hear directly from Renee, she is responsible for creating leads and keeping the company’s content relevant and up to date. Renee regularly shares updates and information on both Facebook and Instagram.
Brendan
Brendan is one of Downright’s most experienced builders. With nearly 40 years on the tools, he has experience in a huge range of projects. From working in Fiji, creating cyclone-proof homes to bungalow and villa renovations and rebuilds, Brendan has seen it all. He prioritises attention to detail and he is always thinking ahead to ensure all projects run as smoothly as possible.
Doug
Doug is a qualified builder with 9 years of industry experience. He is an expert in building beautiful new homes. One of the aspects he enjoys most about building is delivering a high-quality project that he and the owners are proud of.
Our PROCESS
Don’t be left in the dark. With Downright Construction’s end-to-end process, you can look forward to transparency, efficiency and reliability.
STAGE:01 First Contact
Here is where it all begins. We will have a no-obligations chat with you about your project and what you want to achieve.
STAGE:02 Onsite Meeting
We come to you. Downright Construction will visit your home or building site to talk through refining your ideas and to discuss your timeline and budget.
STAGE:03 Preliminary Estimations (costs and timeline)
This is where Downright Construction will consult with you on possible costs, how long work should take and the estimated date of completion of your project.
STAGE:04 Design
Your dream takes shape. Based on your requirements and architectural tastes, Downright Construction will develop a fully compliant design that offers the very best in efficiency, aesthetics and practical living.
STAGE:05 Consent
Taking care of compliance. Downright Construction will liaise with the council and other relevant parties to obtain all the surveys and consent forms needed before construction commences.
STAGE:06 Budget (cost finalisation)
Costs and dates finalised. Downright Construction will provide you with a detailed cost analysis and report, along with a project timeline to eliminate uncertainties.
STAGE:07 Construction
Once Downright Construction has established site access and start dates, it's time for construction to begin.
OUR PROCESS
Don’t be left in the dark. With Downright Construction’s end-to-end process, you can look forward to transparency, efficiency and reliability.
STAGE:01 First Contact
Here is where it all begins. We will have a no-obligations chat with you about your project and what you want to achieve.
STAGE:02 Onsite Meeting
We come to you. Downright Construction will visit your home or building site to talk through refining your ideas and to discuss your timeline and budget.
STAGE:03 Preliminary Estimations (costs and timeline)
This is where Downright Construction will consult with you on possible costs, how long work should take and the estimated date of completion of your project.
STAGE:04 Design
Your dream takes shape. Based on your requirements and architectural tastes, Downright Construction will develop a fully compliant design that offers the very best in efficiency, aesthetics and practical living.
STAGE:05 Consent
Taking care of compliance. Downright Construction will liaise with the council and other relevant parties to obtain all the surveys and consent forms needed before construction commences.
STAGE:06 Budget (cost finalisation)
Costs and dates finalised. Downright Construction will provide you with a detailed cost analysis and report, along with a project timeline to eliminate uncertainties.
STAGE:07 Construction
Once Downright Construction has established site access and start dates, it's time for construction to begin.
WHY BUILD WITH US?
Registered Master Builders
Becoming a Registered Master Builder is not an easy task. In addition to a minimum of six years building experience, business management and industry recognised qualifications, Registered Master Builders must meet a range of criteria to prove solvency, and an impeccable record in both building, leadership and running a business.
Certified builders
Being certified builders means that Downright Construction has had to pass the highest New Zealand building standards before we could offer you the best Building Contracts and Guarantees available.
You’re insured from the start
Before any soil is turned on your site, you will be insured.
You’ll be insured with one of two of New Zealand’s best building guarantees. Either the 10-Year Transferable Halo Guarantee or the Master Builders’ 10-Year Guarantee. Enjoy having peace of mind knowing you have the best cover in place!
Licensed Building Practitioners
As licensed building practitioners, Downright Construction provides you with an assurance that the practitioner has shown they have the skills, knowledge, and experience to meet government-backed national standards.
Your unique needs are valued
Here at Downright Construction, we listen, understand and value your individual needs. You can start with one of Downright Construction’s pre-designed architectural plans, (which are 100% customisable) or design from scratch. Either way, your unique needs are welcome.
Frequent updates with Builda Price Project Management App
You won’t be left in the dark with Downright Construction. As a client, you have the opportunity to download the Builda Price Project Management App to your phone so that you can receive regular updates on your project’s progress in real-time.
Taking quality seriously
Downright Construction takes a lot of pride in our workmanship, which is completed with laser-sharp quality control checklists. We also stamp our personal building licence on all of our builds.
You come first
With Downright Construction, each client is held in the upmost respect. Every decision is made as a team. This ensures you have complete transparency throughout the build process, and a front row seat to your build!
10 YEAR GUARANTEE INCLUDED
This guarantee we provide you with is the best of its kind in New Zealand. It’s also independent. That means if the unlikely happened to us, or even to the Certified Builders Association itself, the Guarantee still stands.