Here at Freedom Built going above and beyond is a standard practice. We want to make the process as stress free as possible for our clients. We strive to do the best we can for all involved so we can exceed expectations and celebrate the successes.
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Team
Our team stretches across the builders on the ground, the team in the office, our customers and community. We believe being a part of this team is something special. With our company culture, communication and the way we are all willing to pitch in to help each other out, we make a strong team, all working together on a common goal whilst having fun along the way.
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Integrity
At the forefront of what we do, Integrity – it is not just a word it is a way of life. Having strong morals, holding ourselves accountable and acting with compassion through all transactions is a priority to create trusting relationships. We are a company committed to doing business the right way, where a handshake and our word still means something.
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Community
We pride ourselves on building quality homes for everyday kiwis, to help improve the communities and to build relationships within the community along the way. Whether its supporting local teams, schools or charities we enjoy giving back to the communities we are apart of.
Launch foundation
Freedom Built are proud to partner with the Launch Foundation managing and constructing a build in Goulds Estate and The Crossing, Rolleston. When constructing these homes, Suppliers and Contractors donate their time and product where they can which allows for more profit to be made for Charity. Every dollar saved throughout the building process goes towards at risk children and youth within the Canterbury region. These children and youth are suffering from the effects of poverty, abandonment, delinquency, addiction and mental illness.
Sponsorship and community support
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Cole Askew
General Manager
Cole brings over 18 years of experience in the construction industry and is a fully qualified, licensed builder. With years of hands-on experience, he has developed a sharp eye for detail and onsite quality. Cole is dedicated to sourcing high-quality projects, managing the daily operations, and guiding the overall direction and growth of Freedom Built. Outside of work, he enjoys staying active at the gym, running, mountain biking, and spending quality time with his young family.
Chloe is our Operations Manager here at Freedom Built, overseeing the day-to-day workings of the business and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. She has been immersed in the building industry from a young age, growing up around construction projects and gaining hands-on experience along the way. Her extensive background in the field gives her a unique perspective on managing the day-to-day workings of the Company. Outside of her professional role, Chloe enjoys spending her free time on family adventures with her husband Ben and their two young sons, Cooper and Lawson.
With nearly 20 years in the industry, Grant Askew has been a driving force behind House and Land Packages in Canterbury. Known for his attention to detail and his focus on maximizing sunlight and space, no project moves forward without his approval. His expertise has played a key role in our reputation for high-quality homes. Outside of work, Grant enjoys spending time with his family and grandkids, while still finding time for golf, tennis, and the occasional car race. Whether at home or on the course, his passion and competitive spirit remain evident.
grant@freedombuilt.co.nz
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Karen Askew
Colour Consultant
Karen, with over 10 years of experience in home staging and a sharp eye for design, crafts the colour schemes for our projects, ensuring a cohesive, high-quality look. She carefully selects colours and finishes that enhance the overall aesthetic and feel of many house and land packages we offer. In her spare time she can be found riding her horse Cruize across the high country, practicing for her next dressage competition or spending time with her young grandchildren.
With nearly 30 years in the construction sector and a stint in the NZ Army (where he learned to fix things and blow them up), Mark’s got the whole “getting things done” thing down. As the leader of the Construction Team at Freedom Built, he’s seen the company grow—probably because he keeps reminding everyone he’s in charge! Off the clock, Mark can be found chasing his kids, yelling at the TV during sports, making a splash on his jet ski, or trying to figure out how to hit a golf ball in a straight line—still a work in progress!
With years of hands-on experience as a qualified builder both in Canterbury and abroad, Logan has mastered the art of bringing new build projects to life. With a great eye for detail and commitment to excellence , he thrives in the hustle of construction, working alongside fellow trades to turn ideas into reality. When he’s not on the tools, you’ll find Logan enjoying some quality time with his Wife and two Sons, exploring the lakes—or wandering through the bushes of his local golf course. He’s also a big fan of oval-ball sports, with a particular soft spot for rugby.
With over 20 years’ experience in residential construction, Dustin has managed new home builds from initial plans right through to handover. One of the most rewarding parts of his role is handing over the keys and appreciating the time, care, and teamwork it takes to get there.
Outside of work, Dustin is a proud dad to two teenage boys and a regular at the gym. He’s a keen motor racing fan and loves camping and spending time outdoors with his family and their three dogs.
Fun fact: He loves custard squares… but doesn’t actually like custard.
Laura first joined the Freedom Built team in 2020, took a short break, and made her way back to us in 2025—and we’re so glad she did! With an insight into the building industry thanks to her partner and family of tradies, she brings a unique blend of heart, hustle, and know-how to her role.
Outside of work, Laura loves spending time with her three beautiful nieces—Ellie, Sophie, and Lucy and being kept in line by her cat, Peaches. On the weekends, you’ll often find her catching up with friends with a champagne in hand
laura@freedombuilt.co.nz
027 340 1129
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Emily Ives
Sales Consultant
Emily looks after all things Sales here at Freedom Built! She has relocated from Nelson with her family after spending 5 years working in the building industry up there. Emily has a passion for all things Design when it comes to new builds, she is your go-to lady when looking into Design and Build with Freedom Built. In her spare time you’ll find her enjoying hill walks and exploring everything Christchurch has to offer with her husband and children.
Colin joins the Freedom Built team after previously working in property development in the North Island, along with spending a few years in the bicycle industry. He brings a strong, customer satisfaction focused attitude and hands on experience. Known for his friendly, welcoming demeanor and his practical approach, Colin fits right into the team’s pace and culture.
In his spare time, you’ll find him at the park kicking a football around or coaching the local kids, and if you’re really lucky, he might even share a few of his favourite recipes with you.
Kevin brings a wealth of experience to his QS role, from both the residential and commercial sectors. He has a keen eye for detail and ensures clients fully understand the project costs, giving everyone peace of mind. On top of that, with Kevin’s background in landscape architecture and interior design, he’s a one stop shop for all aspects of your build! When he’s not in the office, you’ll find Kevin travelling or at the theatre.
Helen is the friendly face of our Bellgrove Show Home, where she works closely with clients, guiding them through the home and helping them visualise what’s possible for their own build. With a background in Graphic Design and Interior Design, and 13 years’ experience in the kitchen and joinery industry, she brings a thoughtful, design-led approach along with practical industry knowledge.
She has a natural ability to connect with people and an eye for detail, making the show home experience both inspiring and informative.
Outside of work, Helen enjoys growing things, baking, and getting stuck into DIY projects.
With nearly 13 years of experience, Jing is an architectural designer known for his ability to listen deeply to client needs while balancing cost and performance. He believes that great design begins with understanding the client’s vision and delivering functional solutions that fit their budget. Outside of work, Jing is a dedicated family man, enjoying quality time with his two boys. Whether it’s playing basketball at the park, biking through scenic trails, or engaging in epic video game battles, he brings the same passion and teamwork to his family life as he does to his architectural projects.
Kerrianne manages the madness in the Construction team, taking care of everything Construction Admin, Maintenance, and Health & Safety related — all while keeping the boys in line. With her strong admin background and diverse professional experience, she keeps things running smoothly and is an essential part of our Team in many areas. Outside of work, you’ll find her walking her dogs, Maze and Storm, catching up with friends, or planning her next travel adventure.
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Vanessa Smit
Accounts
Vanessa is an essential part of the Freedom Built team, expertly managing our accounts with precision and care. Known for her impeccable attention to detail, Vanessa ensures that nothing slips by her, keeping our financials in perfect order. Outside the office, Vanessa is a parkrun enthusiast and frequently participates in running events and challenges with her partner. She enjoys staying active and loves winding down with friends over a good bottle of wine.
Rachel works alongside Vanessa in our Accounts team, processing invoices and payments for our valued suppliers. With 14 years of experience in Real Estate Administration, she brings a wealth of knowledge that enhances our team’s efficiency. Her keen attention to detail and strong organizational skills ensure that everything runs smoothly, making her a vital asset to our team. Living locally with her husband and two busy teenage children she is actively involved in coaching and supporting their hockey and sports teams. In her spare time, she enjoys diving into a good book, watching supercars and indulging in a bit of shopping.
Mel joins the Freedom Built team as our Pre-Construction Manager after spending the last seven years working on the redevelopment of Scott Base, New Zealand’s research station in Antarctica. Mel brings 10 years’ experience in administration, coordination and project management and is known for her efficient systems and process and her ability to just get stuff done. In her spare time Mel enjoys cooking, reading, traveling and the gym.
Katie brings four years of marketing experience to the Freedom Built team, with a strong passion for creativity, thoughtful design, and delivering results that make an impact. She enjoys bringing ideas to life through engaging content and campaigns that not only look great but also help strengthen the Freedom Built brand and connect with customers in a meaningful way. Her creative approach, attention to detail, and drive to achieve great outcomes make her a valued part of the team.
Outside of work, Katie loves spending time outdoors exploring with her dog, Maple, and taking every opportunity to travel to new places.