Mark Dunajtschik biography

Next year, German born Mark Dunajtschik will celebrate 60 years living in New Zealand.

Mark came to New Zealand as a tool-maker in the fifties to make a new life. He started and ran a successful engineering business for 28 years and then ‘retired’ to start buying and building property. He has built and owns a number of large commercial properties throughout Wellington.

He has not stinted in giving back to his adopted country. Mark has been a substantial benefactor in the areas of education, health and sport – making significant donations to good causes in Wellington and nationally over the past forty years.

His philosophy; people blessed with good health in mind and body can look after themselves, but those born with or suffering ill health need our help.

When the opportunity presented itself he offered to pay for, build and donate a new Children’s Hospital to Wellington.

This rare and extraordinarily generous action came after a conversation with his business and life partner Dorothy Spotswood. When asked what she thought, Dorothy replied - ‘I can’t think of anything more worthwhile than doing this.’

The experienced - and self-confessed frugal - builder is constructing the hospital with his property partner Grant Corleison because they believe they can build more hospital for less than government departments can.

“Most benefactors write out a cheque, but in this case, that wouldn’t get nearly as much done for the money. I can use my skill as a builder and developer to get the maximum value out of the $50 million I’m donating for our children.”