About Us
Meet The People Behind StrongBuild Solutions
Hi, I’m Richard
founder and director of StrongBuild Solutions Ltd
I was born and raised in Wanganui, and my journey into building started in a slightly unusual place — on the water. My first career was in the marine industry, and over the years I managed the construction of marinas across New Zealand and Australasia. It was hands-on, highly technical work, and it taught me how to lead teams, solve problems on the fly, and get things done with whatever tools were available.
As much as I loved it, the travel eventually wore thin and I wanted something more grounded. That’s when I made the decision to start an adult carpentry apprenticeship. I was lucky to get a spot training under some of Auckland’s best commercial builders. We built schools, managed complex re-clads, and completed high-spec fit-outs. I learned systems, structure, and the importance of doing things right.
Still, I knew I wanted more than just a job. I missed being in charge of projects, leading from the front, and building a team that felt like family. That’s why I started StrongBuild Solutions Ltd.
I didn’t just want to be another builder in Auckland. I wanted to build a company where clients feel listened to, where staff are proud to show up each day, and where they feel appreciated and motivated. I wanted this to be the drive behind our work.
And that’s what we’ve created. Today, I’m proud to lead a tight-knit team of experienced builders — many of whom, like me, have young families and strong values. We’re local, based in Pukekohe since 2018, and we’ve delivered 100+ successful projects for clients right across Franklin and Auckland.
Outside of work, I’m a Station Officer in the Pukekohe Fire Brigade — something I’ve done for over 21 years. It keeps me grounded, gives me perspective, and reinforces how important safety, teamwork, and service really are — on and off the tools.
Since 2018, my wife Elena and I have called Pukekohe home. We’ve got three young kids, and like many in our stage of life, it's full-on — but meaningful and 100% worth it.
So what does this mean for you?
It means when you work with StrongBuild Solutions, you’re not just hiring a builder — you’re getting a leader who’s seen every angle of the industry and built a team that genuinely cares.
It means clear communication from the start, no guesswork with pricing, a safe and respectful site, and a finished build that feels better than you imagined — because you were part of it the whole way through.
It also means we show up, we keep our word, and we treat your home like it’s our own.
If that’s the kind of experience you’re after, I’d love to hear about your project.
Hi, I’m Elena
Business Manager
My career began after completing a Bachelor of Visual Arts at the University of Auckland and taking what I thought would be a short-term role at Auckland Council in Building Control. That role became a springboard into the construction industry and eventually led me into the private sector as a fire compliance consultant, managing commercial building warrants of fitness.
I’ve always enjoyed simplifying complex systems and creating structure in areas that often lack it — a strength I now bring to every StrongBuild project.
Today, I run the business side of StrongBuild Solutions, overseeing accounts, health and safety, and operations to ensure our team stays organised, compliant, and ready to deliver a well-run experience for every client.
Hi, I’m Jay Logan
Site Foreman
You’ll see me onsite as the Foreman, with a hand in just about everything — from being on the tools alongside the team to ordering materials and coordinating our subcontractors. If you’ve got a question during the build, I’m the one to ask.
I’ve been with StrongBuild for over 8 years now and feel like part of the family. It’s a wicked team to be part of, and I’ve really enjoyed working across such a wide variety of projects over the years.
Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my young family. We live semi-rural, so there’s always something to fix, build, or get stuck into — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Hi, I’m Cole
Lead Builder
I’m a qualified carpenter here at StrongBuild, with a background in concrete — so whenever we’re knee-deep in it, you’ll usually find me there making sure everything’s looking spot on.
They say I’m the quiet one on site, but I reckon I’m just the one doing all the work. 
Outside of work, life’s busy with my partner, our daughter, and a collection of pets that keep us on our toes.
StrongBuild Solutions Ltd - Our Company Values
These are the foundations of how we show up — on site, with our clients, and with each other. They shape how we work, how we lead, and how we build.
Always Improving
We grow by doing — and by learning from each other.
We believe there’s always a better way, and we’re not afraid to try it. Whether it's mentoring apprentices or collaborating to solve tough challenges, we support growth every day — as individuals, and as a team.
Proud of Our Work
We take pride in doing things properly.
We hold ourselves to high standards and deliver quality that lasts. Our project managers run ongoing checks to make sure everything we do meets — or exceeds — expectations. No shortcuts, no slap-ups, no excuses.
Upfront & Accountable
We’re honest — even when it’s hard.
If something doesn’t go to plan, we front up, fix it, and make sure it’s better next time. Clients are always kept in the loop because this is their project — and they deserve to feel in control of it.
Safety
We look out for our team like we look out for our family.
Safety isn’t just a checklist — it’s a way we work. We speak up, we check in, and we don’t take risks with each other’s wellbeing.
Teamwork
We back each other while having a laugh. And we get the job done.
There’s a real bond here — we work hard, have fun, and we’ve built a culture where even our families know each other. That kind of trust shows up in our work too.
Teamwork
Togetherness makes us stronger. We believe that extraordinary homes are built when trade professionals collaborate as a team, all committed to creating your dream home.
Respect
Every project is someone’s dream — and we don’t take that lightly.
We show up on time, keep things tidy, communicate clearly, and follow through. We want our clients to feel respected, informed, and genuinely stoked with the result and the journey getting there.