Eco Design Advisor

Our Eco Design Advisor offers free advice to Palmerston North residents, architects, designers and builders on sustainable design and energy options for homes. This service helps the Council meet its objectives as a sustainable city. 

One of the major problems in Palmerston North is the moisture content in houses. During winter we are all concerned with stopping draughts and keeping heat in, but by doing this we trap the moisture in our homes and often all it takes is opening a window to let the moisture out.

Keeping condensation under control is just one of the problems Council eco design advisor Nelson Lebo can help you with. He can also offer advice and guidance if you plan on building a new home.

Nelson can help you identify options for improving your home or reviewing your house plans. Advice is customised to suit your house, family needs and budget. The design decisions that will impact the most in the performance of your home are made early in the design process, so book a consultation as early as possible.

Book your free consultation

This free service is available to anyone in Palmerston North who wants help as they renovate or build their home, or for those wanting to reduce their energy bill. The service is also available to builders, architects and designers.

You can book a free home consultation, book a presentation for your community group, or ask questions over the phone.

To book your free consultation, contact Nelson Lebo. If you have a specific technical enquiry that you'd like help with, you can also contact any of the eco design advisors working for other councils.

Email Nelson or call him on 06 356 8199

Eco design at work

In this video, Eco Design Advisor Nelson Lebo catches up with Helen King about how making a few changes in her home have created a warmer, healthier home for her and her children, meaning fewer visits to the doctor.

Watch our winter hacks video series

Nelson worked with the New Zealand Herald to create a series of videos about how you can help keep your home warm and dry. They've allowed us to share them with our Palmy community, so we've created a special playlist on our YouTube channel. Check out these handy home tips.

Customer feedback

Here are some of the comments we've received from people who have used this service.

"As a result of Nelson's visit, we have replaced 13 recessed down lights with LEDs, and had a thick blanket of insulation installed in our roof. The difference in warmth is quite noticeable."

"I have been following Nelson's articles in the local free newspaper, which expand on what he covered in his recent library talk. The whole area of eco-design is very interesting, and a lot more needs to be done to improve New Zealand's housing stock. Nelson is making eco-design more accessible through his articles and talks, and I hope he keeps up the good work."

"Nelson's delivery is certainly one of passion and enthusiasm. The content was something that everyone could relate to personally and I'm sure we all picked up several tips for the future."