Why I started Kubo?
Services and history
As a young Kiwi, I see how hard the traditional path into property has become, with house prices and construction costs continuing to rise.
Rather than simply accepting that owning property or creating an incomeproducing space was becoming out of reach, I started looking at what other options might be available.
That thinking became the starting point for Kubo.
Granny flats and studios are a classic on the Whanau's back yard, so I thought, why not elevate that popular living solution?
I began asking whether a compact, well designed building could give people a more achievable way to create additional accommodation, generate income, support family members, work from home or take an initial step into property.
I believed it could.
Kubo was created to offer compact, clever and complete spaces that help people make better use of land they, or their family, may already own.
I also wanted Kubo to be more than simply a business importing interesting buildings.
Buying a compact home involves much more than choosing a model. Customers need to understand delivery, access, foundations, placement, services, compliance and the true cost of getting their building ready to use.
That is why I am fortunate to have the support of my dad, Jason. He brings extensive experience in construction, project management, customer service and the New Zealand building industry.
Together, we combine the fresh thinking and energy of a new generation with practical, real world construction knowledge.
Kobi Trethowen
Founder, Kubo Living Solutions
Fresh thinking backed by real building experience
Kubo is a New Zealand owned family business established by Kobi Trethowen, supported by Jason and the practical construction experience behind Ideal Buildings Waikato.
Kubo’s role does not end when a unit leaves the factory. The team provides local assistance with model selection, site suitability, delivery planning, foundations, placement, service connections and the likely compliance requirements.
Built to New Zealand Standards
Our job is everything that happens on this end: selecting the right model for your situation, planning your delivery and placement, coordinating foundations, and connecting you with the licensed New Zealand electricians and plumbers who complete the service connections to local standards.
We’re not a shiny brochure company. We’ll tell you what’s included, what isn’t, and what you’ll need to sort on your site.