Layland & Co

By Liam's own admission, he's always had an eye for homes. Turns out, caring about the details, both in property and in people, is why homeowners keep passing his name on as the agent of choice. As a former police officer, Liam brings the kind of grit and integrity you can't fake. His communication skills were honed on the frontline. He tells it like it is, even when it’s not easy, because it’s honesty that gets people further. And the client-appreciation and results show it. In a town like Whakatane, reputation moves quickly, and Liam's built his on doing right by people. It's a simple thing, but it works. He's picked up a string of national and local awards along the way. While those are public proof of what his clients already know, they're not what drives him. What does? It's the internal anchors: valuing connection, being meticulous about the work, and living up to the honest name behind a business founded almost entirely on repeat and referral. Liam's on the water when he's not with clients or family. He moves between open homes and open water like it's second nature. Whakatane's legendary game fishing grounds is a backyard he loves and knows well.

I’m Sharnika Dowthwaite, a Whakatane-based licensed Agent known for delivering premium outcomes with a calm, confident, people-first approach across Ohope, Whakatāne and our wider coastal community. Trusted by clients and respected by industry peers, I’m committed to raising the standard of what real estate service can be. Working collaboratively with Layland & Co, my clients benefit from a modern, streamlined real estate experience backed by deep local knowledge. Collaboration isn’t just something I value - it’s one of my biggest advantages. Holding New Zealand’s highest qualification - both Branch Manager (Level 5) and Agent (Level 6) - I bring advanced expertise and strategic precision to every listing. Whether it’s a multi-million-dollar coastal home, a smart investment, or an important first step onto the property ladder, I approach every campaign with clarity, structure, and care. Because I’ve navigated the buying, selling, renovating and investing process myself, I bring practical understanding and a clear, steady approach to every client experience. Outside of real estate, I serve as Presiding Member (Chair) of the Ōhope Beach School Board of Trustees - a role that keeps me connected to the community where my four sons are growing up. Local. Award-Winning. Trusted.

Mel Hayes is a dedicated real estate professional proudly serving the wider Whakatāne and Eastern Bay region. Known for delivering exceptional service and consistently going above and beyond, Mel is committed to achieving outstanding results while ensuring her clients feel informed, supported, and confident at every stage of the journey. With strong negotiation skills, clear communication, and a highly personalised approach, she creates a seamless and stress-free experience from start to finish. Now proudly part of Arizto, Mel combines premium service with a smarter commission structure — offering exceptional representation while ensuring her clients receive outstanding value. This approach aligns perfectly with her belief that great service shouldn’t come with unnecessary cost. She is also proud to be joining fellow Layland & Co team members in this move, continuing to work within a trusted and collaborative network. Working independently while backed by innovative systems and experienced team support, Mel offers the best of both worlds, dedicated one-on-one service, strengthened by the power of a respected brand and proven processes. If you’re looking for an agent who is honest, personable, and genuinely invested in achieving the best possible outcome, Mel Hayes is ready to help.