| Deposit requirements | |
|---|---|
| First home buyers | From 5% |
| Owner-occupiers | From 10% |
| Investment properties | From 10% |
There's quite a bit to manage with a new build, so we stay involved from start to finish — not just at the beginning.
Stuart is a senior Mortgage Adviser with over 25 years in the lending industry. Known for his strategic loan structuring and clear communication, he supports clients from first-home buyers to investors. A member of Financial Advice NZ, Stuart is dedicated to smart, client-focused lending solutions.
Stuart is a highly experienced mortgage adviser with over 25 years in the lending industry. He’s worked with clients ranging from first-home buyers to seasoned investors and is known for his positive approach and expert knowledge.
After running a successful mortgage brokerage, Stuart became a tutor for the NZQA Certificate in Money Management before returning to mortgage advice.
He now helps clients navigate the lending process with clarity and confidence, from initial application through to long-term planning. His focus is on building the right loan structure and achieving the best outcomes, especially in complex or multi-property scenarios.
Stuart’s deep understanding of the lending landscape means he can find smart, personalised solutions to suit a variety of financial goals.
He is a member of Financial Advice New Zealand and remains committed to staying current with industry trends and best practices.
Chevaun is a Mortgage Adviser and Chartered Accountant (CPA), with a Bachelor of Business in Accounting. She combines lending expertise with financial insight to help clients, from first-home buyers to investors, make confident, well-informed decisions that support long-term financial goals.
Chevaun is a qualified Mortgage Adviser and Chartered Accountant (CPA) with a background in property, lending, and accounting. She holds a Bachelor of Business majoring in Accounting and previously worked for a large property investment firm in Brisbane.
Her dual expertise in finance and accounting gives her a broad perspective on how lending decisions impact overall financial strategy.
Chevaun works with a wide range of clients, from first-home buyers to experienced investors, offering clear advice, tailored loan structures, and a strong attention to detail.
She is passionate about helping clients make confident, informed decisions that align with their long-term goals.
Based in Nelson, Chevaun balances her mortgage work with running her own business and raising a busy family with two young children.
Her practical, relatable approach makes her a trusted partner for clients navigating today’s property and lending landscape.
Mel is a Mortgage Adviser holding her New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services and has over a decade of experience in the financial services industry. With a background in business ownership, she helps clients confidently navigate home lending – from first homes to refinancing.
Mel has been part of the Castle Trust team since 2014 and holds her New Zealand Level 5 Certificate in Financial Services. She began her journey with Castle Trust in a client support role, gaining hands-on experience in insurance, investments and mortgages while completing her financial adviser qualifications.
Before moving into financial services, Mel owned and operated a successful retail business in Motueka. This experience gives her a practical understanding of the financial challenges individuals and families face, particularly around home lending and budgeting.
Over the past decade, Mel has supported hundreds of Castle Trust clients through key life stages. As a mortgage broker, she brings deep technical knowledge and a strong client-first approach to every interaction.
Mel helps clients feel confident and informed as they navigate the lending process, whether they’re buying their first home, refinancing, or planning their next move.
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