With over a decade of experience in the real estate industry, Pat Lapalapa continues to lead with a powerful principle: people first, property second.
We regularly invite industry members to our Ringa Hora staff sessions so that we hear firsthand their inspiring stories, experiences, and gain valuable insights into the Service sector. At today’s staff session, Pat shared his passion for serving the community through real estate—not just by helping people buy or sell homes, but by truly understanding their needs. Sometimes, the best solution isn’t selling—it’s leveraging equity to invest or simply staying put. “When I meet someone, I imagine they’re my own parents, my sister, or my brother,” Pat says. It’s this mindset that guides his work as a Salesperson and Branch Manager at Ray White Māngere.
Talking to Pat feels like getting advice from a trusted big brother—honest, practical, and always with your best interests at heart.
He also addressed a common barrier for those entering real estate: commission-based income. Pat’s approach? Plan for success. He encourages new team members to keep their current jobs while gaining experience in the office and completing their studies. “It’s all about the mahi you put in,” he says, championing an “earn as you learn” model.
Pat’s journey hasn’t been easy—he recalls 70–80 hour work weeks early on—but every challenge became a stepping stone. Now, he finds deep satisfaction in mentoring others and building a strong, values-driven team.
He’s also passionate about creating pathways into real estate for the next generation. Through initiatives like The Rising Foundation, Pat is introducing the industry to students as young as intermediate age. And with Ray White Māngere’s partnership with REINZ, they’re launching in-person NZ Real Estate Level 4 Salesperson courses starting Saturday, 24 May.
We wrapped up the session with heartfelt stories from our own team—testimonies of how Pat’s guidance helped them navigate their own property journeys and even mentoring of their own family member in Pat’s office.
Yes, real estate agents deal in property, often the biggest financial asset someone owns—but with Pat, the true value always starts with people.
Check out Pat’s We Be Who We See interview for more insights into his journey in Real Estate.
