Two Iconic Real Estate Brands Unite

In a landmark move for the real estate industry, EVES Real Estate is proud to announce its strategic expansion into the Eastern Bay of Plenty through a joint venture with McDowells Real Estate.

McDowells, with its well-established offices in Rotorua and Whakatane, is renowned for its long-standing presence in the region.

This partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies, combining two of the most respected and longstanding names in the industry. Heath Young, CEO of EVES Real Estate, emphasised the natural alignment between the two businesses, stating, “The McDowell team are a great cultural fit for EVES.

We share underlying family-business based values while maintaining a professional approach and applying high energy levels to the customer experience; there is a natural synergy.”

For more than five decades, EVES Real Estate, owned and operated by Realty Services Limited, has been a trusted name in the property market. With 27 offices spanning four regions and a team of 557 dedicated professionals, this joint venture further reinforces EVES’ commitment to growth and investment in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Young added, “This joining of our teams promises to deliver an even higher standard of service, driven by a shared vision of excellence, innovation, and community-focused values.”

Steve Lovegrove, owner of McDowells, echoed the significance of this partnership as a continuation of their shared legacy. He commented, “After 48 years, this is another step in our journey together. Back in 1976, the real estate landscape in New Zealand was a patchwork of independent, family-branded businesses.

As pioneers in the industry, Max Eves, from Eves and Coxhead Real Estate in Tauranga, and Ian McDowell from McDowell Real Estate in Rotorua, recognised the need for a ‘Network of Land Agents’ across Aotearoa New Zealand to share ideas and business referrals.

Today, as the world of real estate evolves with new technologies and shifting client expectations, it's only fitting that our two pioneering brands unite to lead the way forward.”

This historic joint venture is not just a merging of two powerful legacies but a bold statement for the future of the industry. The combined strength of EVES and McDowells will offer unmatched expertise in residential, lifestyle sales, and property management, backed by EVES’ world-class Resource Centre and an incredibly passionate team.

“Our teams are excited to join forces and better serve the communities of Rotorua and Whakatane,” said Lovegrove. “Together, we are stronger, more capable, and more committed than ever to raising the bar in real estate service.”

This exciting partnership positions the newly combined entity to dominate the market and provide unparalleled service to the residents of the Eastern Bay of Plenty, cementing their place as leaders in New Zealand's real estate industry.