Architectural Homes. Renovations. Development Collaborations.
That’s what we do.
How we do it is what makes the difference.
"because of their reputation in the industry, we not only receive the most excellent care from them, but also the trades that work alongside them. Everyone onsite has an obvious respect for this company and want to do an excellent job to continue with that relationship.""
N.&S. Edgecombe (One of 100+client testimonials)

WORKING WITH US
YOU CAN EXPECT THAT .....
In a regional market like ours, clients rarely separate the architect from the builder when reflecting on their experience.
We have been named Most Trusted Architectural Builder in the Bay of Plenty five years running.
That recognition reflects consistent delivery, clear communication and accountability across more than 100 documented client experiences.

You lead the design. We support it.
We can be involved as little or as much as you want. Where we add real value is pressure-testing drawings before site pressure begins.
Our experience spans complex geotechnical developments, high-end residential construction in Europe, and structured systems development within large organisations. That combination of craftsmanship and process discipline is unusual in a regional builder.
Gavin has developed a strong instinct for reviewing plans and identifying where sequencing, tolerances or detailing may create pressure later. We work with you, not over you, testing details behind the scenes so there are no forced compromises mid-build.

If feasibility or budget alignment is not right, we will raise it early with you.
We would rather deal with financial reality at concept stage than see cost pressure damage confidence mid-build. When budgets shift unexpectedly, the architect is rarely separated from the builder in the client’s mind.
Over 20 years we have learnt where cost pressure tends to emerge. Structure. Access. Sequencing. Documentation assumptions. When involved early, we provide realistic budget guidance. Once documentation allows, we undertake a detailed pricing exercise with transparency around allowances and scope.
We do not pursue projects at any cost. If something does not stack up financially or practically, we will say so.
Efficiency protects your client’s budget. It is not about cutting corners. It is about maintaining trust and protecting your professional reputation.

We coordinate directly with engineers, surveyors, geotechs, interior designers and landscapers so you are not managing communication layers.
Our Project Managers and foremen study the drawings thoroughly before site momentum builds.
Where BIM modelling is used, it is reviewed properly to reduce assumptions and improve coordination.
This reduces friction on site and removes unnecessary pressure from your practice.

After two decades in business, we did not assume experience alone was enough.
We engaged What Lies Beneath to independently review our client experience to understand where friction builds and how the process is actually felt by clients. Every insight has shaped how we operate today.
Many builders use project management software. We were early adopters of Buildertrend and have spent more than a decade refining how we use it and the discipline required from our Project Managers.
This is not about having software. It is about how consistently and properly it is used.
You will not be chasing updates. Decisions are documented properly and every client has their own unique secure website with live updates, photos, documentation and pricing.
For overseas or time poor clients, this becomes even more valuable. They feel confident without requiring constant involvement from you..

We are experienced across coastal, rural and constrained urban sites. Sand-based foundations, exposed environments, access limitations and tight footprints are familiar territory.
Our land development background gives us a strong understanding of geotechnical risk, servicing constraints and early-stage feasibility. That perspective allows structural efficiencies and sequencing logic to be identified before documentation locks in cost.

When projects involve intricate detailing and bespoke elements, supplier quality matters.
Over two decades we have built long-standing relationships with specialist craftspeople and high-end suppliers locally and internationally.
These partnerships allow architectural detail to be delivered properly, without reactive site decisions diluting intent.

You would be working directly with experienced people who remain involved.
Aaron brings extensive land development knowledge and a strong understanding of geotechnical risk and early-stage feasibility.
Gavin’s background includes delivering high-end architectural homes in Europe. His ability to sequence complex builds and preserve design intent is well recognised.
Peter’s finance background underpins transparency and accountability throughout the project.
Day to day, your project is led by qualified builder Project Managers supported by highly experienced foremen, with over 20 years experience.

We actively promote the architects we collaborate with.
Completed projects are showcased across our website, social media platforms and e-newsletter, with architects clearly credited as design lead.
Clients often follow the build journey online. That visibility reinforces confidence in the process and highlights the strength of the design partnership.
When a project is delivered well and shared well, it strengthens both of our brands.

We feel our name is on every build. We remain accountable beyond handover.
Our After Care Programme is structured and proactive. Issues are addressed promptly and communication remains open.
Clients remember how a project finishes. That final stage reflects on the entire team. It is one of the reasons for so many repeat clients over the years.

What Our Clients are saying


Weirdly, we were sad that the awards were our last interaction with Thorne Group. To get to the end of a build process and be sad to say good bye to your building company, I don’t think there can be a greater compliment. We will continue to tell everyone we know just how awesome your team has been. From start to finish, Thorne Group exceeded our expectations and produced a result we are extremely proud of.”
S. & N. Edgecombe


"I couldn't be happier with my new home and working with the guys at The Thorne Group was an absolute pleasure. I knew from the outset that they were working for me and that they always made what I, as the client, wanted the priority.
It was well planned and stress-free and I would recommend them in a heart beat."
H. & S. Whyte


“We are incredibly grateful to the craftspeople who built our stunning beachfront home in Pukehina. Their dedication to quality and attention to detail is evident in every aspect of our house, which has become the heart of our family. The impeccable construction reflects not only their skill but also their passion for creating enduring legacies. We look forward to making cherished memories here for generations to come.”
Owners of "The Tides" Home
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"Being a local family business with a great reputation also gave us confidence that we chose the right company for our project.
Everything ran like clockwork with our home being handed over right on schedule and in budget.
Quality of the workmanship was just that – Quality, and the attention to detail with the contracting, invoicing and any variations, meant there were no surprises – except our surprise at how easy and enjoyable the whole process has been."
R.& J.

From the masterful design and then through into conception we had a seamless build process which was anything but stressful. I love the fact it is a family run business where we are treated like people and not just another number. I would definitely build with Thorne Group again as they are a superb team


"Weirdly, we were sad that the awards were our last interaction with Thorne Group. To get to the end of a build process and be sad to say good bye to your building company, I don’t think there can be a greater compliment. We will continue to tell everyone we know just how awesome your team has been. From start to finish, Thorne Group exceeded our expectations and produced a result we are extremely proud of.”
S. & N. Edgecombe


"From the masterful design and then through into conception we had a seamless build process which was anything but stressful. I love the fact it is a family run business where we are treated like people and not just another number. I would definitely build with Thorne Group again as they are a superb team"
F. Harman


“We are incredibly grateful to the craftspeople who built our stunning beachfront home in Pukehina. Their dedication to quality and attention to detail is evident in every aspect of our house, which has become the heart of our family. The impeccable construction reflects not only their skill but also their passion for creating enduring legacies. We look forward to making cherished memories here for generations to come.”
Owner of "The Tides" Project
.jpg)

"Being a local family business with a great reputation also gave us confidence that we chose the right company for our project.
Everything ran like clockwork with our home being handed over right on schedule and in budget.
Quality of the workmanship was just that – Quality, and the attention to detail with the contracting, invoicing and any variations, meant there were no surprises – except our surprise at how easy and enjoyable the whole process has been. "
R. & J. Hurn
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"Our introduction to Thorne Group came through watching our friends build their lovely new home with this Company. Their whole experience went so well we decided to brave it and here we are today living in our beautiful home and very happy to recommend them to anyone looking to build.
We have to thank Gavin Morrow and our project manager and Craig and his team of builders whom all showed such Professionalism, dedication and Pride in their work, ensuring a well managed, transparent process for us."
J. & D. Viggiano


"I couldn't be happier with my new home and working with the guys at The Thorne Group was an absolute pleasure. I knew from the outset that they were working for me and that they always made what I, as the client, wanted the priority.
It was well planned and stress-free and I would recommend them in a heart beat."
S. & H. Whyte
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"Thorne Group delivered our new home on time.
We were consulted the whole way through and nothing was too much trouble, a fantastic achievement. Scott, our Project Manager, could not have been more helpful.
Any changes that we wanted to do throughout the project were easily accommodated and met with great advice and assistance.
Thorne Group are very professional and their attention to detail is amazing and we would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone else"
S. & D. Muir


"Subdividing a property (with all the necessary council approvals) and building a dwelling on the new site is described as an infill project. With the right design and execution, it can be a fulfilling one, as the Rapleys discovered once they involved Thorne Group.
Local Mãori history meant the subdivision was more complicated than they expected, and Andrew acknowledges it may have been a smoother process had they got Thorne Group on board earlier."
A. & A. Rapley
Extract from Nourish magazine


"Even before the project Aaron, Gavin, Peter and the team were prepared to take time out to listen to and fully understand what we, as clients wanted. Thereafter, this mutual understanding has had a hugely positive impact on every aspect of the project- with Aaron Thorne's Project Management skills adding value at every stage and never detracting from our mutual desire for the highest possible quality.
Our new home is a testimony to honesty and integrity of the team - we will enjoy it as one that has been entirely 'built on trust' - we would not hesitate in recommending the Thorne Group to others."
S. & P. Varley

























