After more than four decades in Ōtara, Ventia’s Energy & Renewables team has officially opened the doors to their new branch in East Tāmaki.

This move marks more than just a change in location, it is a bold step forward in shaping a modern, collaborative, and future-ready workplace that reflects the team’s evolving identity and ambitions.

Team Ventia & customers at East Tamaki branch, New Zealand.

The opening of the East Tāmaki branch was also an opportunity to welcome key customers, including Transpower, Vector, Harmony Energy, Wel Networks, Auckland Transport, Helios Energy, Quadcom, and Edison. The team proudly showcased the new depot, giving visitors a firsthand look at the upgraded facilities and the collaborative energy driving the Energy and Renewables team forward.

“It was fantastic to have our customers on site and show them the space we’ve built together,” says Karen Boyes, Project Director North New Zealand".

Culture plays a huge role in how we deliver our work, and this new depot reflects that. It’s professional, welcoming, and built with purpose and I think our customers could really see the pride our team has in what they do and where they do it. It sets a strong foundation for future projects and partnerships.

“This is pretty important for us,” says Craig MacDonald, General Manager of Energy & Renewables. “We’ve moved from a place with a lot of legacy, and now the team can shape their own culture, to build something that becomes a legacy for the future. It’s not just about the physical space, it’s about giving our people the chance to take ownership, to collaborate more closely, and to create an environment that reflects who we are today and where we’re heading. This move sets the tone for the next chapter of our journey.”

The new branch offers a more open-plan layout, improved facilities for heavy equipment, and proximity to both staff and customers. All of these contribute to a more connected and efficient operation.

Charlotte Valentine-Ah Tune, Project Manager, who led the project and coordinated the move, sees the transition as a symbol of new beginnings.

It was great working with everyone and realising how well we collaborate. Our team was split across two gates before. Now we’re centralised, and that makes a huge difference in how we connect and communicate. The move was a hands-on effort, with the team managing the relocation themselves. While challenging, it became a powerful team-building experience. It brought out a few hidden talents.

Aerial drone shot of the Ventia East Tamaki depot, New Zealand.

For Operations Manager Gordon Pelser, the new depot represents a shift in both culture and capability. “Optics are key,” Gordon says.

When someone walks in and sees a professional, tidy space, it reflects the quality of workmanship we deliver in the field. The team has done a stellar job getting it to that standard. Being together means more open communication and a better understanding of each other’s roles.

Looking ahead, the team is excited about the opportunities this new base unlocks. From attracting local talent to deepening customer relationships and, most importantly, continuing to raise the bar in service delivery. 

“The biggest thing is the engagement of our people,” Craig adds. “They’ve had a say in how this place was set up. It’s theirs, and that’s powerful.”

As the Energy and Renewables team settles into their new home, one thing is clear. This move isn’t just about a new location. It is about building a stronger, more connected future together.