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Independent Builders — For Independent Thinkers

23 June 2025

Independent Builders — For Independent Thinkers

Build a Unique Home with an Independent NZ Builder

Are you an individual? Do you like things that other people don’t have? Things they can’t have?

Then why would you live in the same house as your neighbour?

The same cookie-cutter design franchises build hundreds of, year in and year out — duplicated street to street, town to town. If you’re creative, original, and value that something else, why not build with a builder who does too?

At RB THOMAS LTD, we’re independent. That means there’s no head office telling us your custom idea won’t fit into their system. If you want curved walls, rooftop gardens or sunken lounges — we’re all ears. We’re here to serve your wildest design visions.

It doesn’t mean we don’t have systems — it means our systems work for you, not the other way around.

It All Starts With a Conversation

Our process kicks off with a no-pressure, no-cost sit-down — just a coffee (or a wine) and a chat. We talk through your ideas, your lifestyle, and what kind of home you’re dreaming about.

Often, you’ll already have concept plans or inspirational designs you love — great! We’ll start shaping your dream from there, all while keeping your budget and priorities in view.

From Vision to Consent

Once you’re in love with the concept, we’ll:

  • Provide a cost estimate
  • Define inclusions and exclusions
  • Move into Design Development & Pricing

At this point, a small deposit covers working drawings and any required third-party reports. These allow us to lock in pricing and apply for building consent.

Time to Build

With plans, specifications, guarantees and pricing finalised, we:

  • Sign the Build Contract
  • Submit to council
  • Schedule trades and order materials

Once consent is issued, your build begins.

You’re always welcome on site — we’ll walk through with you during the build, and again at completion with our red sticker book to make sure everything’s perfect before handover.

Handover & Celebration

Once all touch-ups are done, CCC is issued, documents delivered and the final invoice squared away… it’s time to pop the champagne and hand over the keys to your incredible, one-of-a-kind new home.

Want to build something you love?

If you’re a unique individual with creative taste and a vision for your future home, talk to us today.

Even if you just love the look of one of our stock plans — get in touch. Building new might be more attainable than you think.

DM us now or visit rbt.co.nz to learn more.

Got a project in mind?

We’ll come to you, walk the site, and give you straight-up advice on what’s possible. Free, no obligation.

Get A Quote

We organise everything from consents to champagne!

Get A Quote

We look after everything

Compliance and approvals

We handle all codes of compliance and council submissions, to make sure your project meets legal requirements.

Reliable partners

We work with a reliable network of highly skilled tradespeople, from roofers to carpet installers, to ensure every aspect of your project is done right.

Problem solving

We identify and fix the root causes of problems to prevent recurring issues, protecting your investment from ongoing costs and damages.

All-inclusive service

We take care of everything from planning and design to subcontractors, materials, and appliances. So you never have to worry.

HamiltonMatamataCambridgeTirauTe AwamutuPutāruruOtorohangaTokoroaWaitomoTe Kuiti

Looking for a builder who always keeps you in the loop?

We’re approved New Zealand Certified Builders, so you’ll qualify to apply for Halo — our comprehensive 10-Year Residential Guarantee. Rest assured, you’re in good hands.

We most likely work in your area too, but if you’re unsure don’t hesitate to give us a call.