Dedicated to improving industry outcomes by lifting capability and unlocking what matters: Progress | Performance | Purpose
Through Construction Sector Advisory, Training & Upskilling, and Industry Betterment, we help organisations and people navigate toward a thriving future
Navigating complexity. Aligning teams. Delivering lasting value.
At Navig8, we exist to help clients and their projects set a clear course – empowering people to perform, unlocking potential across teams, and lifting the standard for our industry.
We do this by combining pragmatic insight, collaborative leadership, and a balanced perspective – shaping solutions that make a difference, today and for the future.
Each a destination on the journey to a stronger construction ecosystem
“Setting a smarter course”
Helping projects & organisations set a course for success – guiding decisions that shape outcomes from the very start
“Equipping people to perform”
Building confidence, competence, and capability – empowering people to navigate challenges and seize opportunities
“Lifting the tide for all”
Driving lasting positive change across the construction ecosystem – advocating for a more resilient, sustainable, and high-performing sector
Founder of Navig8, Gavin brings over 30 years of experience in capital project delivery and business leadership. As a trusted advisor and project leader, he’s known for helping people stay calm, play to their strengths, and find their way to safe harbours. His work spans public & private infrastructure, industry standards reform, and capability development across New Zealand’s construction sector.
“Through his engagement with Navig8 Construction Advisory, Gavin has consistently delivered exceptional service to Health NZ. His contributions span from strategizing on procurement and delivery to successfully leading as the Interim Project Director for some of our most challenging capital projects. Gavin’s leadership style is characterised by his encouragement of unconstrained and innovative thinking. He skilfully brings together diverse perspectives to tackle challenges in new and inventive ways. His approach fosters a culture of transparency and trust, which has been instrumental in driving our teams toward achieving practical and efficient results. Gavin’s enduring impact is highly valued at Health NZ, and we confidently recommend his seasoned, pragmatic advice to anyone in the construction sector seeking reliable guidance.”
Blake Lepper,
Head of Delivery – Infrastructure Investment Group, Health New Zealand
“Gavin is a true champion for industry betterment and his genuine and authentic leadership shines through in every interaction. Whether Gavin is representing the industry voice on a complex multi-stakeholder initiative, sharing his learning through training, or answering queries from colleagues who need a sounding board, Gavin shows up with care, attention, a collaborative mindset, and a steady hand. It’s been a pleasure to work alongside Gavin to drive important change initiatives in the sector.”
Helen Davidson
Chief Executive, ACE New Zealand
“The obvious technical ability goes without saying. There’s a reason why Gavin Shaw gets called to manage the big projects. But I find Gavin’s true skill is his ability identify the crux of an issue and reason his way through it, deciphering the issues in a way that leads to effective resolution. I’ve witnessed times where Gavin has reasoned a room of differing and antagonistic views into a cohesive team agreeing a way forward. To have the skill to get multiple parties on side quickly, is a skill not many have. And the time and cost benefit that skill brings, is Gavin’s primary asset.”
Fleur Aldridge
Infrastructure Lawyer – Major Project Governance
Advice rooted in real-world experience – where commercial realities shape behaviours and practical solutions drive results
We work with you – solving problems together with shared intent
Lifting industry standards while delivering strong project outcomes
Timely, honest, and direct conversations – saying what needs to be said with respect and clarity
Applying insight and perspective to shape actionable strategy
Empowering people to grow by fostering trust, respect, and the confidence to engage
Facing uncertainty or planning your next move? Let’s talk and find the best path forward with Navig8.