PlaceMakers raises $68,000 for MATES in Construction 

A PlaceMakers tiny house built for Fieldays has raised $68,000 for MATES in Construction, with all proceeds supporting mental health and wellbeing initiatives across New Zealand’s construction industry 

The tiny house was developed through a partnership between PlaceMakers and James Hardie to showcase a range of building products in a real-world setting, while creating a meaningful fundraising opportunity. 

The concept was devised in February 2026 and took around four months to bring to life ahead of Fieldays. 

Designed as a fully fitted-out tiny home, it featured products from James Hardie, PermaPine, Red Stag Timber, Altus Windows, Dimond Roofing, Peter Hay Kitchens, Artusi, Rinnai, Englefield, Raymor, Strata Flooring, MiTek and Bed, Bath & Beyond. 

The project was delivered with support from the PlaceMakers Waikato Hub team, including Hub Operations Manager Val Paterson, who coordinated suppliers and builder Tranda Construction. PlaceMakers Category Managers Anna Grechikhina, Laura Murdoch and Wendy Zeng also worked closely with suppliers throughout the project. 

Much loved idea 

The tiny house attracted strong interest throughout the four-day Fieldays event, which welcomed more than 132,000 visitors – including several enquiries from visitors interested in purchasing similar tiny homes. 

Following a competitive tender process involving 19 bids, the tiny house was purchased by Hamilton-based Tower Farms Deer Limited for $68,000, with the full amount donated to MATES in Construction. 

PlaceMakers Chief Executive – Distribution James Peters said supporting the wellbeing of people working in the construction industry was a natural extension of the company’s long-standing partnership with MATES in Construction, which began in 2021. 

“Construction is a tough industry and too many of our people carry more than they let on,” he said. 

“That’s why the work MATES in Construction does matters so much. It gets alongside people on site, starts the conversations that are hard to start and makes sure no one has to struggle on their own. 

“We’re proud to put this $68,000 behind them, and prouder still of what it stands for. Looking after the people who build New Zealand is what this is really about.” 

Being put to good work 

MATES in Construction Chief Executive Officer John Chapman said the donation would help the organisation continue supporting workers across the industry. 

“The generosity of PlaceMakers and their supporting suppliers will help us keep our people where they’re needed most – on the ground, training workers and supporting those struggling through life’s toughest moments,” he said. 

“It will also enable us to continue promoting positive mental health and well-being across the industry, ensuring more people know that help is available and that no one has to face their struggles alone.” 

If you or someone on your crew is struggling, contact MATES on 0800 111 315.