One relationship. Genuine representation.
Privé exists because too many capable people get poorly served when buying or building property in New Zealand. Real estate agents represent vendors. Contractors know more than their clients and act accordingly.
We’re the fix. Someone in your corner who can walk onto a site and know whether the work is right.
Our Founder
Ian Thompson has spent 37 years in property and construction as a civil and structural engineer, designer, developer, building systems developer, supplier, and industry publisher. He moved to New Zealand in 2001 and has since developed waterfront properties, rural estates, vineyards, hotel and hospitality projects.
Ian founded The Build Review, reaching well over 100,000 construction professionals monthly. He designs bespoke lighting manufactured in Europe for luxury projects (see Project Lighting) and holds patents for products he commercialised. He also set up Beyond Hardware, a supply-to-trade architectural hardware business that distributes across Australasia.
“I started Privé because building a house is actually simple. It’s the industry that makes it sound complex and expensive. I work with a small number of clients at any time, on projects I find interesting, with people I want to work with. Some have become good friends.”
The Team Behind Privé
Ian personally oversees every engagement. He is supported by a network built over two decades, including legal, tax, immigration, and relocation specialists. Independent inspectors, engineers, designers, and builders who have proven records on premium projects. We also work with European suppliers to provide superior performing products not available in Australasia.
We assemble the right team for each project. You get Ian’s direct involvement, backed by specialists who meet our standards.
How We Work
Privé deliberately limits active engagements. We work with a small number of clients at any time, on projects we find genuinely interesting, with people we want to work with. Some have become good friends.
We operate on a fee-for-service model, typically on a time-and-materials basis, and never on commission. This eliminates any conflict of interest and ensures our advice remains truly independent.
If you’re considering acquiring or building New Zealand property and would value this kind of support, let’s talk.