Nelson Tile & Slate: Building Excellence Through Quality Tiles and Expert Installation
Established in 1992, Nelson Tile & Slate was first located on Rutherford Street before relocating to “The Base,” a bustling shopping precinct in the heart of Nelson City. Today, it continues to serve the Nelson and Tasman regions under the ownership of Jonathan Hardwick and Jenna Cook, who took over the company in 2021.
In 2015, Jonathan and Jenna embarked on a journey that would change their lives. “We came over on holiday to scout both islands with a view to move over,” explains Jenna. “We spent a week in Nelson, fell in love with it, and Nelson Tile & Slate was the first tile store we visited.” At that time, Jonathan had been tiling in the UK for over 12 years. After an encouraging conversation with the previous owners, Brent and Trudie Wright, Jonathan was offered a job on the spot due to the shortage of skilled tilers in the region.
“We went back to the UK, sorted our visas, and returned in 2017,” Jenna recalls. Jonathan was initially employed by the previous owners but quickly transitioned into self-employment, contracting to Nelson Tile & Slate and local builders. His reputation for precision and quality grew rapidly. “Jonathan’s skillset was immediately recognised, and he built strong relationships with many local builders,” Jenna adds.
In 2021, the opportunity arose for Jonathan and Jenna to take over Nelson Tile & Slate, as the Wright’s sought more family time. “It was a natural progression for us,” says Jenna. “We were already so embedded in the business and the local community.”
Nelson Tile & Slate is more than just a tile store; it’s a one-stop shop for high-quality tiles and expert installation services. Jonathan personally oversees installations, offering free quotes and handling the onsite work. Jenna manages the showroom alongside her colleague Larna, where they works closely with clients to help them bring their visions to life. “We pride ourselves on the full-service experience, from helping with design and selecting the right tiles to ensuring seamless installation,” Jenna notes.
The showroom is a standout feature, showcasing fully tiled and kitted-out displays that help clients visualise the final product. “It’s one thing to see a single tile, but seeing it fully installed gives people a much better idea of how it will look in their space,” says Jenna. With over 15 suppliers and one of the largest retail tile collections in New Zealand, Nelson Tile & Slate has something for every project, whether it’s a custom architectural build, a renovation, or a commercial development.
Taking over the business in May 2021, just months before the second lockdown hit New Zealand, was a challenge. “It was quite a scary time,” Jenna admits. “But because the business already had such a solid reputation, we didn’t feel the impact as much as other companies.” Commercial projects, like the Ocean View Apartments in Tahunanui, continued throughout the pandemic, keeping the business steady. “We saw a slight pullback in new builds, but renovations kept us busy,” she explains.
One of the key factors in their continued success is their focus on high-quality, custom builds and renovations. “Our clients are looking for something unique, whether it’s a villa restoration or a modern new build,” says Jenna.
Jonathan and Jenna’s success isn’t just due to their own hard work. They’ve built a strong network of subcontractors, many of whom worked with the previous owners and share their commitment to quality. “Jonathan is the lead installer, but we also work with a range of subcontractors we trust. Upto eight subcontractors assist with installations, all of whom we’ve built strong relationships with over the years,” Jenna explains. All installers are certified in waterproofing, ensuring every job meets council regulations for tanking and consent, making the process hassle-free for clients.
“We liaise directly with builders and other trades to keep timelines on track and ensure everything runs smoothly,” Jenna adds. “Our goal is to take the stress out of the project for our clients.”
Nelson Tile & Slate isn’t just about tiles; it’s about building relationships and being part of the local community. “One of the most rewarding aspects of running the business is the repeat customers we get,” says Jenna. “People come back to us for their holiday homes, renovations, and new builds. We’ve even built personal friendships with some of our clients.”
The company is also deeply embedded in Nelson’s business network, supporting other local businesses and fostering strong relationships within the city. “Nelson is unique in the way business owners support each other,” Jenna reflects. “There’s a real sense of community here, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
As they continue to grow, Jonathan and Jenna are embracing the digital age with the addition of a virtual reality component on their website. This allows customers to take a virtual tour of the showroom and view the extensive tile range from the comfort of their own homes. “It’s all about making it as easy as possible for our clients to visualise the projects,” Jenna explains.
While Nelson Tile & Slate doesn’t sell tiles directly online, customers can inquire about products and services via the website. “We prefer the personal touch,” Jenna says. “Every client is unique, and we want to ensure they get the advice and support they need.”
In the heart of Nelson, Jonathan and Jenna have created a business that reflects their passion for quality and their commitment to their community. With a showroom full of inspiration, expert installation services, and a reputation built on trust, Nelson Tile & Slate is set to continue its legacy of excellence for years to come.
For more information visit www.nelsontileandslate.co.nz
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