As Senior Development Manager at Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities, Charlotte Veikune helps build warm, dry homes for vulnerable people and whānau in the Northland region.
What does service to the community mean to you?
I believe service to the community is an integral part of civic engagement, lived out both within and outside the workplace. I really enjoy being active within my local community, the property industry and through my role at Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities.
How does your work make a difference?
I am a Senior Development Manager in the Construction Group at Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities. I am part of a team that helps build warm, dry homes for vulnerable people and whānau in the Northland region. I believe the homes we build can provide stability and help change the trajectory for many New Zealanders.
What achievements are you most proud of?
In 2023, I was diagnosed with cancer and I continued to work while undergoing treatment. I am so proud of my family, including my three-year-old son, for adapting and overcoming our biggest challenge and now achievement to date.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
The design phase in a project. I really enjoy being able to imagine what the final development will look like and how the work we do will influence someone’s new home before it is built. I enjoy interrogating programme and cost efficiencies with the design team. And when the project is built, being able to observe the small details that no one else notices and how a decision made 10-12 months ago has resulted in a successful outcome.
I believe the homes we build can provide stability and help change the trajectory for many New Zealanders.
What are 3 words you would use to describe your work?
Dynamic, building, fulfilling.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in the Public Service?
Create a career development plan and be very intentional about living it out. I would also find a mentor who can help you with achieving your professional goals and aspirations. I believe both the development plan and a mentor are mutually dependent.
