Peter Wolfkamp’s new series, I’ve Been Thinking, offers insights for homeowners

31 Oct 2024

Peter Wolfkamp, New Zealand’s ‘Resident Builder’ known for his work on Newstalk ZB and as the site foreman on The Block NZ, has just launched a new video series called I’ve Been Thinking.

This series draws on Peter's decades of experience in the building industry, blending his insights with the real concerns of homeowners and renovators. Peter shares more about his new series, his views on building literacy, his favourite projects and go-to Resene products:

Tell us about your new home renovation series I’ve Been Thinking and how it’s helpful for homeowners?

“I’ve Been Thinking is a reflection of my 35 years in the building industry and my experiences hosting The Resident Builder on Newstalk ZB. The show stems from real questions and concerns people have about home renovations, reflecting what matters most to them. I try to summarise these common themes and give insights into trends, challenges and political issues affecting homeowners, like changes to building codes. This series allows me to share that knowledge and help people make informed decisions about their homes.

I'll think about what I hear, what I read, what I see around me. Building is incredibly political in terms of planning legislation along with a whole lot of other things. So, there's a really dynamic space, and I'm in that position where I've got a good amount of experience. I've got insights, as well as good connections to different parts of the sector, and that allows me to do a bit of thinking and go, ‘okay, well here are some trends,’ or ‘here are some broad concerns,’ or ‘this is why this is an issue.’ So yeah, that's just me - I've been thinking!”

Peter on the set of his new show, I’ve Been Thinking.

On your Newstalk ZB show, what are some of the most common questions you get from listeners?

“The most frequent questions on The Resident Builder revolve around improving building literacy – helping people understand building science concepts like insulation, double glazing and ventilation. It’s great to see more homeowners becoming informed about building performance and asking about energy efficiency too. This shift has occurred over the past decade as people are now experiencing what good quality housing looks like, and they want to replicate that in their own homes.”

Do you have a favourite project you’ve worked on?

“Yes, our last big project was a complete rebuild of a 1910 workers' cottage that my wife Debbie and I tackled. It involved everything from restoring ceilings to adding new bathrooms and kitchens, and we used a variety of Resene products throughout. One interesting part was working with polyurethane ceilings that had been varnished, a look popular in the ’80s but not so much today. We sanded, sealed and painted them to give them a modern update. Resene helped us meet various challenges, from sealing plasterboard to painting exterior trim. We also used a range of Resene colours like Resene Nero, Resene Baltic Sea and Resene Half Merino.”

Peter’s renovation project, featuring Resene Half Merino on walls and ceiling and Rockcote on the fireplace painted in Resene Foggy Grey. Check out this home to stay in on Bespoke Stays.

What is your go-to Resene product?

“I’d have to say Resene Aquaclear, a waterborne polyurethane. I used it for a plywood workbench in my office, and despite daily use, it held up remarkably well for over a decade. It’s a product that impresses me with its durability and finish.”

What are your favourite Resene colours?

“Resene Foggy Grey, Resene Nero and Resene Black White. They’re versatile and work well in a variety of settings.”

What’s next for you? Any exciting projects lined up?

“Like any builder, I always have projects on the go. Maintaining my own house is a constant task, and I’m focused on staying on top of regular maintenance – something I always advise homeowners to do.”

With his vast experience and friendly, approachable style, Peter continues to be a trusted voice in the building industry, guiding homeowners through their renovation journeys with wisdom and practical advice. I’ve Been Thinking promises to be an engaging and informative series for anyone looking to improve their home.

Watch some of the first videos below, or tune in on YouTube.

Published: 31 Oct 2024