Straight-talking Steve Miles knows the property industry on Waiheke Island well. A resident for 27 years, he worked in the island’s thriving construction industry specialising in stone and plaster work. 

Back surgery, after falling from scaffolding, has brought a change in career he had been thinking about for some time. These days instead of building houses, he’s selling them. 

Steve brings his wealth of knowledge about properties and house builds to his sales role at Ray White Waiheke. “And I am pretty good at listening, compassionate … I sold gravestones in Auckland four years so you have to be caring to do that! 

“Plus I have a good nature and a sense of humour.”

He thinks his down-to-earth approach will appeal to property owners who want to be kept in the loop and know exactly what is happening each stage of the marketing process. “I am a direct person, I don’t like to pretend I’m more than I am. Succinct, down to earth, plain speaking, I like to keep things simple.” 

And he is keen to promote the island lifestyle to newcomers. “I lived on Guernsey before I came to New Zealand. I like how islands are like a village, life is cool here and you quickly get to know people. There’s a good community and it’s great for kids.” A father of four, all of whom were schooled on the island, Steve enjoys walking and cycling when he’s not in the office, and he also finds time for his other passions, cartooning and sculpting. If you ever happen to be in Wellington, you’ll see his carved lettering in the foundation stone at Te Papa Museum.