A rewarding and shifting industry: a follow-up chat with women Canterbury branch executives

6 March 2026

We caught up with executives from our Canterbury branches in 2024 about their experiences in the industry, with more women entering the trades and moving into leadership positions: A Force for Change (Building Today PDF 342 KB). Two years on, we ask what they’re seeing – and doing – in the industry now. They share insights ahead of International Women’s Day (Sunday 8 March), which this year has the theme “give to gain”, emphasising the power of reciprocity and support.

"The best day at work is knowing that I have helped our fabulous homeowners turn an idea into a beautiful family home that will keep people safe and warm for many years to come. "

Andrea Lee (Fowler Homes Ashburton), Ashburton branch executive

After my boys finished at Ashburton College, I wanted to continue to help grow the school and its profile. A conversation with the new principal led to setting up a build academy programme.

It is such an exciting project to be involved with. Currently there are 13 students, including one woman, all working towards BCITO pre-trade qualification and their level 13 credits. The aim of the project is more than just building a house. It is also to give them skills in interacting with sub-contractors, suppliers and peers. Learning life skills and exposing them to all aspects of a build, including cleaning it at the end, will grow their confidence and provide them with an invaluable skill set – not only for them, but future employers.

Ours is such a rewarding industry to work in. We have a plethora of amazing minds with drive and passion to make the industry strong and resilient, with the end products built to extremely high standards. The best day at work is knowing that I have helped our fabulous homeowners turn an idea into a beautiful family home that will keep people safe and warm for many years to come.

" Like many other professions, we are encouraging our younger generation of men and women to stay and be part of an exciting industry through the many training opportunities that exist here in New Zealand. "

Coralie Pollard (Landmark Homes Canterbury), Canterbury branch Vice President

I work alongside a diligent team to serve members and ensure their voices are heard. Like many other professions, we are encouraging our younger generation of men and women to stay and be part of an exciting industry through the many training opportunities that exist here in New Zealand.

Master Builders has played a pivotal role in my own professional growth. Through governance and advocacy training, I’ve been able to deepen my leadership capability and broaden my perspective.

Like many of our members, I remain hands-on in the day-to-day operations of our business, involved in every stage – from the first site visit to final handover. When the weekend arrives, you’ll often find me on our farm block or working on our family renovation in the Marlborough Sounds. It seems I’m never too far from the work I genuinely enjoy!

" I feel strongly that if small businesses are thriving, then the whole industry will do well. "

Heather Harding (Harding Construction), South Canterbury branch Vice President

Being a small business owner is a demanding experience. There are many hats to wear in a day, and no two days are ever the same. The construction industry can be as challenging as it is rewarding, but that also creates a lot of learning opportunities. I know we’re looking forward to making 2026 a year of positivity, opportunity and growth.

My position as vice president, combined with my role as a board member for the South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce, enables me to meet with and hear from some outstanding people – across a range of businesses, industries and government agencies. It is exciting to take ideas gained from Master Builders members in other parts of New Zealand and consider how we might implement them in South Canterbury. I feel strongly that if small businesses are thriving then the whole industry will do well.

South Canterbury has a strong business community with a number of active business support groups. I would like to develop a Women in Construction group here in Timaru. There are many local women working across the industry, and a network where we can share ideas, learn from each other and encourage participation in political and representative groups could be very beneficial.

" I would encourage people entering the industry to be curious and keep learning - construction offers so many pathways. "

Kate Moses (Jennian Homes Canterbury), Ashburton branch President

Over the past decade I have seen a real shift in the industry. There’s far more acceptance of women in construction and a strong culture of support. I focus on continuing to grow my knowledge, backing myself, and building positive relationships across clients, trades, and colleagues.

People remain the highlight for me. From clients embarking on their building journey to the tradies and colleagues who make each project possible, I’m fortunate to work alongside a wide range of talented and passionate individuals. Building strong relationships and being part of a collaborative team environment makes the work both rewarding and enjoyable every day.

I would encourage people entering the industry to be curious and keep learning – construction offers so many pathways. I began my career in administration and, over time, progressed through a range of roles within Jennian Homes. Each step gave me the opportunity to expand my knowledge, build new skills, and deepen my understanding of how the construction process works from start to finish. Confidence grows with experience. You need to ask questions, seek out mentors, and put your hand up for opportunities.