In the building industry, there are names that carry weight not just because of what they’ve built, but because of the way they’ve led. For us at Faulkner Construction, that name is our founder — Ross Faulkner.
For nearly five decades, Ross has been a constant in an industry that has changed beyond recognition. From his beginnings as an apprentice in the late 1970s, to leading a team that delivers some of Auckland and the Bay of Plenty’s most challenging architectural builds, to shaping industry standards at a national level, Ross’s influence is everywhere you look.
Recently, Ross sat down with the team at the Better Builder Podcast to share his story. You can listen to the full episode here.
From Pakuranga to the Top of the Trade
Ross grew up in Pakuranga, the eldest of three children in a close-knit, outdoorsy neighbourhood. His early years were filled with sailing, building tree huts, and learning the value of doing things properly.
By the time he reached high school, Ross knew he wanted to be a builder. He began his apprenticeship in 1978, starting at the bottom as every apprentice does - making the tea, fetching tools, and pushing wheelbarrows. It took him a few years to “click” into the craft, but when he did, he never looked back.
One defining moment came early in his career, working alongside a mentor who, after inspecting a door Ross had hung, asked him: “Are you going to leave it like that?”
Ross took the door apart, fixed it properly, and committed from that day on to a quality-first approach.
Building Faulkner Construction
After gaining experience on a range of projects - from small fences to large renovations - Ross took the leap and founded Faulkner Construction in 1981. His first apprentice joined in 1989, and he’s trained more than 40 since.
Under Ross’s leadership, the company grew steadily, specialising in complex architectural homes that challenge even the most experienced builders. Today, Faulkner Construction employs 24 people on the tools and six in the office, delivering award-winning projects that stand the test of time.
Leading with Culture and Care
Ross has always believed that what happens on site is as important as the finished product. His leadership style blends technical expertise with empathy, ensuring apprentices and foremen alike are supported, challenged, and proud of their work.
This commitment to culture led to the creation of The Craftsmen - our internal leadership group that champions quality, culture, and performance across every project. It’s a big part of why our values - Pride & Excellence, Unleashing Potential, and Building Family - aren’t just words on a wall. They’re lived every day.
Shaping the Industry
Beyond the business, Ross has dedicated himself to lifting the entire industry. He’s the current President of Auckland Master Builders and serves on the BCITO Board, where he chairs the National Advisory Group for Carpentry.
He’s also contributed to the New Zealand Institute of Architects’ contracts committee, helping shape agreements that are fairer and more workable for builders nationwide.
Lessons Learned
Ross’s story isn’t without its challenges - difficult clients, tough economic cycles, and the constant pressure of cashflow are part of any long career in building. His advice for other builders is simple:
Choose your clients wisely: not all work is worth the risk.
Document everything: variations, approvals, and communications protect everyone.
Grow at the right pace: systems and people need to keep up with the work.
Look after yourself: health and longevity go hand-in-hand.
A Legacy That Lasts
When you ask Ross how he defines success, it’s not the awards (though there have been plenty), or even the scale of the projects. It’s the people.
It’s the apprentices who’ve become foremen. The homes that will stand for generations. The family, both at work and at home, who’ve been part of the journey.
As we look to the future at Faulkner Construction, Ross’s influence runs through everything we do. The standards he set, the culture he built, and the example he continues to lead by will shape this company for decades to come.
