About Connect Realty
Real Estate That Opens Doors —Literally & Figuratively
The Founder
Donna's Story.
Donna Hewitt never planned to become a real-estate agent. During the global financial crisis she worked in mortgagee recovery, counselling homeowners as they faced foreclosure — learning to listen deeply and guide people through tough transitions.
After relocating to New Zealand she started as an assistant to a high-performing agent, absorbing every lesson. Within 18 months she had sold 37 homes — built on empathy, discipline and a people-first mindset, not slick sales tactics.
Connect Realty grew from her conviction that collaboration creates better outcomes than competition. The brand exists to make real estate human, transparent and empowering.
Mortgagee recovery
Learning to listen through crisis
Move to Aotearoa
Starting over as an assistant
37 homes / 18 months
People-first, not sales-first
Connect founded
Collaboration over competition
In Donna's Words
Why I Joined The Network
A first-hand account of building Connect Realty with the support of The Network.
Starting my own real estate brand in Queenstown was one of the biggest decisions of my career — and without question, one of the best.
After spending more than a decade working within large corporate agencies, I knew I wanted to create something different. I had a vision for a business built around collaboration, innovation, and a fresh approach to real estate, but turning that vision into reality felt overwhelming. That's where The Network came in.
From our very first conversations, the support was exceptional. Ben took the time to truly understand my goals, my values, and the point of difference I wanted to bring to the market. Together, we mapped out the foundations of the brand, and the team transformed those ideas into a clear strategy and a professional platform that brought my vision to life.
The design team exceeded every expectation. They listened carefully to every detail and created a brand identity that was even better than I had imagined. Within just a few short weeks, what had started as an idea had become a fully developed brand — complete with professional marketing assets, systems, templates, and everything needed to launch with confidence.
What impressed me most was that the support didn't stop once the branding was complete — that was just the beginning.
Launching your own business can be intimidating. Leaving the security of an established agency and stepping out on your own is a leap of faith. Throughout the entire process, The Network was there every step of the way — from marketing strategies and social media support to branded collateral, administration systems, templates, and launch planning. I always felt supported and never alone.
The launch itself was seamless, and nearly 12 months later, that support remains as strong as ever.
Today, Connect Realty has sold 21 properties, established a strong presence in the Queenstown market, and continues to grow from strength to strength. Joining The Network gave me the confidence, tools, and support to turn a dream into a thriving business.
To anyone considering starting their own brand or taking the next step in their real estate career, my advice is simple: have the confidence to explore the opportunity and talk to The Network.
"It might just be the best decision you ever make."
Why We Exist
"To change the way real estate works by replacing competition with collaboration. We give every vendor the widest possible reach — and every agent the chance to share in success."
— Donna Hewitt, Founder
What we stand for
Four principles, every interaction
The values our clients feel from the first conversation through to settlement day.
Generosity
We share opportunities rather than hoard them.
Fairness
50/50 splits and no refusals.
Transparency
Open communication and honest advice.
Community
People and relationships come first.
The Connect Promise
"Six promises — kept on every listing."
What You Can Expect
Connect isn't just a promise — it's a process. When you list with Donna, here's what's waiting for you.
50/50 commission guarantee
Every agent is invited — and rewarded — for bringing you a buyer.
A no-refusals policy
No potential buyer is ever turned away from your property.
Access to the CollabClub
Our mailing list connects agents nationally and internationally.
Agent-only open homes
Dedicated viewings that build networks and surface real buyers.
Simple, transparent pricing
No hidden fees. No surprises. Just clear, upfront numbers.
A steady hand throughout
Clear communication and empathy from listing to settlement.
Ready to Experience the Connect Difference?
