In this episode, building scientist Dr. Allison Bailes shares his journey from physics academia to the world of building science. He discusses the importance of airtightness in homes, explaining how it directly impacts indoor air quality, comfort, energy efficiency, and moisture control. Bailes challenges the myth that houses need to “breathe,” advocating instead for air-tight construction combined with well-designed ventilation systems.

Special Guest: Allison Bailles .

In this episode of the pro clima Podcast, Simon Cator and Jon Davies sit down with Arena Williams, MP for Manurewa, for a conversation on housing, policy, and the future of building in Aotearoa.

Special Guest: Arena Williams.

In this episode of the pro clima Podcast, architect Sian Taylor shares her journey from growing up in Wales to designing and living in a Passive House in Queenstown. She reflects on the contrasts between UK and New Zealand building standards, highlighting the superior comfort and energy efficiency of Passive House design.

Special Guest: Sian Taylor.

In this episode of the pro clima Podcast, Simon Cator sits down with Mark Anderson of MA Building, a Wanaka-based builder, as he shares how an apprenticeship alongside his father led to his journey into building high-performance homes, focusing on health and comfort. He reflects on his commitment to energy efficiency and how it drives his focus on Passive house standards and smarter building methods.

Special Guest: Mark Anderson.

In this episode of the pro clima Podcast, host Simon sits down with Jason Quinn, the Director of Sustainable Engineering, as they discuss overheating in homes and how to design to prevent it from happening.

Special Guest: Jason Quinn.

In this episode of the pro clima Podcast, host Simon Cator sits down with Bronwyn Barry, Principal at PassiveHouseBB, for an insightful conversation about Passive House design.

Special Guest: Bronwyn Barry.

Join Simon Cator as he sits down with Denise Martin, Director at BEO, for an insightful discussion on building science and insulation practices in New Zealand.

Special Guest: Denise Martin.

In this episode of the pro clima Podcast, host Simon Cator sits down with Graham Finch, Principal Science Specialist at RDH Building Science, for an in-depth discussion on rain screen walls—their function, importance, and the key differences between open and closed rain screens. Graham shares his expert insights on how different cladding systems impact not only the performance of a building but also its longevity, highlighting critical considerations for architects, builders, and designers. Whether you're a construction professional or simply interested in the science behind moisture management in buildings, this episode is packed with valuable knowledge you won’t want to miss!

Special Guest: Graham Finch.

Join Simon Cator in conversation with Dan Saunders as they explore New Zealand’s H1 building code changes and discuss how we can promote higher standards. This engaging discussion dives into the challenges and opportunities of creating homes that are not only durable but also better suited for Kiwi lifestyles.

Special Guest: Dan Saunders.

Join Simon Cator as he interviews Architect Bob Burnett to explore the transformative work behind the Christchurch Earthquake rebuild, the origins of the Superhome Movement, and how to select the perfect architect for your dream home.

In this insightful episode, Bob shares the guiding principles of the Superhome Movement, including airtight designs, low-carbon materials, and the importance of responsibly sourced resources. He reflects on how witnessing the Christchurch rebuild and the prevalence of substandard housing across New Zealand inspired his mission to design healthier, more sustainable homes.

Special Guest: Bob Burnett.