Media Release

28 November, 2006

New eco design advisor service at Waitakere

Waitakere is offering a free eco design advice service for people planning to build or renovate their homes.

Eco design advisor Fred Braxton can give impartial advice on sustainable design topics such as energy, water and materials, for home building or renovation projects within the city’s boundaries.

Clients can make an appointment to meet him for up to two hours at their own site, at their designer’s office, or at the council - Waitakere Central, Henderson.

The position, which is being trialled by Waitakere in association with BRANZ, aims to make better use of resources.

Braxton says people are seriously considering environmental issues in their homes because they want to improve the health of their family, save money on energy and water bills, be more comfortable, and reduce their impact on the environment.

“They can have a more satisfying environment to live in, and probably increase the resale value of the house,” Braxton says.

He provides independent, factual, and practical building information on reducing energy bills, improving thermal performance, reducing water use, better waste management, careful material choices, and improved indoor air quality.

He has access to a large support network of specialists, design tools, assessment methods, and materials information – all free.

Not only homeowners but also designers and other building professionals can use the service.

For either a new build or a renovation, the best time to make use of Braxton's skills is at the preliminary design stage after any planning constraints have been identified.

The service is currently provided at only three councils in New Zealand, for a trial period of 10 months – Hamilton and the Kapiti Coast District councils are the others.

ENDS

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