Harcourts Bay of Islands (Optimize Realty Ltd)

Jay has been selling real estate since 2017 and really enjoys working with so many wonderful people across the Far North. Over the last financial year, Jay was fortunate enough thanks to many fantastic clients to achieve the No.1 in the group for client experience, second for settled sales, third for exclusive listings, and second for marketing exposure across the Far North. His philosophy has never changed with a focus on being honest and personable with people by giving candid information to them. This honesty, in conjunction with detailed feedback, gives sellers the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions. It sounds simple because it is, most don’t do what they promise and that’s where Jay stands out from the crowd.

Having lived in Northland for 20 years, I am still amazed at the beauty of the region and what it offers. I feel privileged to have access to this coastal and rural paradise. People are the key resource of any business and are what the real estate transaction is all about. Happy purchasers and satisfied vendors are the driving force behind my commitment to the industry. After 10 years in the real estate business I continue to enjoy repeat business from past and present customers and clients. The importance of marketing and the process of negotiation, both essential parts of real estate, keep me upskilling and fresh in this constantly evolving marketplace. I am committed to this process and if I can assist others in sharing the beauty of the Far North as an adventure playground for all levels of property ownership, then I am doing a job I value as far more than ‘the daily grind’.

With 43 years in Kerikeri, Brett has built a life and career closely connected to the land, community, and local economy. Him and his wife have raised their three sons here, where they received their education and grew up immersed in the unique lifestyle the region offers, from its natural beauty and outdoor opportunities to its strong sense of community. Watching them grow and thrive in this environment has been a rewarding part of their journey and has further deepened their connection to Kerikeri and its people. As a long-time orchard owner, Brett brings 28 years of hands-on experience in the horticultural industry, developing a strong understanding of sustainable growing practices, seasonal cycles, and the demands of running a successful Horticultural business. Alongside his work in horticulture, he has spent eight years owning and operating a thriving local eatery. This chapter strengthened his skills in business management, customer service, and team leadership, while allowing him to contribute to the vibrant local food scene. More recently, he has dedicated five years to the real estate industry, where he has combined his local knowledge and people-focused approach to help clients navigate property decisions with confidence. Across all these roles, his career has been shaped by a practical mindset, strong work ethic, and a genuine connection to the Kerikeri community.

James joins us from a corporate background having spent the last twelve years prior to taking up real estate working in both New Zealand and Australia for one of the largest FMCG organisations in Asia Pacific. James has a broad range of experience ranging from sales and marketing, operations, and supply chain management and he recently project managed the design build of a state of the art distribution facility in Wiri. James and his wife Karen were seasonal residents of the Far North for fifteen years enjoying the lifestyle the region has to offer, before moving here permanently several years ago. They have two grown children and Karen teaches at Kerikeri Primary School. James has a strong reputation working with local businesses who are looking to buy, sell or simply renew their commercial leases. Honesty and integrity underpin James approach to business and he is happy to discuss your commercial plans in confidence.