About Us

LJ Hooker Timaru has been proudly serving the South Canterbury community since 2003, when Murray and Lesley Groundwater took ownership of the business. Now, the business has entered an exciting new chapter, with their son Ben Groundwater taking over ownership and continuing the family legacy.

Having grown up in the district, Ben has a genuine appreciation for everything the region has to offer and a strong connection to the local community. With several years of experience in business and sales, working in both New Zealand and the United Kingdom, he brings valuable commercial experience, a strong work ethic and a passion for achieving great results.

Ben has established himself as a highly successful salesperson, competing alongside some of the country's top agents in sales awards and receiving excellent feedback from his clients. Alongside his sales achievements, Ben is an active and hands-on business owner who enjoys leading, supporting and encouraging his team to reach their full potential. He believes in creating a positive and motivated working environment where people are supported to grow, succeed and deliver great results for their clients.

Ben particularly enjoys working alongside people, whether helping clients navigate their property journey or supporting his team to achieve their goals. For him, the opportunity to lead LJ Hooker Timaru and continue building on the business's strong foundations is an exciting one. Having grown up in the district, he considers himself incredibly fortunate to be doing what he loves in an area he is proud to call home.

While ownership has passed to the next generation, Murray and Lesley remain very much involved in the business. Lesley continues to lead the property management team as Head of Property Management, bringing many years of industry experience and knowledge, while Murray remains active in sharing his expertise on the sales side.

Together, the team offers experience across residential, lifestyle, and rural sales, and property management, with a strong understanding of the local market and the people who make up the community.

The business’s commitment remains unchanged – providing honest advice, local expertise and personalised service, while building lasting relationships and helping clients achieve the best possible results.