InHouse magazine December 24/January 25

The official magazine of New Zealand Certified Builders Association

Watch for these cash flow warning signs Pg 20

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail Pg 36

Reframing the game –the power of mindset Pg 44

APPRENTICE SUPPORT

NEWS BITES

TRADIE ACADEMY

& SAFETY

InHouse

Published bi-monthly in print and online, InHouse is the official magazine for New Zealand Certified Builders Association (NZCB). InHouse aims to educate and inform our members and their staff of the latest news from the Association and the Building and Construction Industry.

New Zealand Certified Builders PO Box 13405, Tauranga Central, Tauranga 3141

10 Marsh Street, Tauranga 3110 07 927 7720

0800 237 843

www.nzcb.nz

Editor

Linda Moody 07 557 9214

linda@nzcb.nz

NZCB Partnerships and Services

Nicola Airey

027 499 3996

nicola@nzcb.nz

Advertising and Content

Linda Moody

07 557 9214

linda@nzcb.nz

Designers

Wave Agency www.waveagency.co.nz

Print and Distribution

Kale Print Limited

www.kaleprint.co.nz

Mailing List

If you have received a copy of InHouse and wish to opt out, you would prefer to receive it via email, or would like to update your details please email linda@nzcb.nz.

NZCB on

Print ISSN 2463-3305 Online ISSN 2703-2418

From the Editor

Only a few more sleeps until tools down and boots off team! Time to find your jandals from the back of your closet, blow the cobwebs out of the barbie and respool the reel on your fishing rod – all in preparation for some fun and relaxation on a well-deserved break!

Have you seen the latest issue of Revere magazine (enclosed with this issue of InHouse)? The high level of expertise and craftsmanship displayed by our members in these beautiful and unique builds and renovations is outstanding. Like the previous eight issues, Volume 9 is equally as impressive and celebrates the exceptional work our members are producing. As you can see from the magazine, Revere is a fantastic sales tool for you to showcase your business, so keep an eye out early next year to see how you can get your builds featured in Revere Volume 10.

This year we’ve featured some outstanding articles in InHouse from talented and knowledgeable contributors, supporting our members and stakeholders in upskilling, staying informed, and growing. I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you who has contributed to InHouse magazine this year. Your time, effort, continued support, and commitment are much appreciated.

The final issue of the year includes updates, news, and reflections from the Association, our partners, and industry experts. We feature regional updates and highlights from recent successful events, celebrating the vibrant community our members share.

You’ll also find updates from our Chief Executive, Malcolm Fleming; Senior Communications and Engagement Adviser, Andrew Smith, who provides a high-level overview of the exceptional advocacy work happening; and from our Education and Events Manager, Marcie Hintz, on the new

and exciting education programme the Events team is rolling out.

This issue offers a great mix of articles to help members stay on top of essential topics, address more challenging subjects, and gain valuable knowledge for both business and personal growth. Topics covered include costings, insurance, employment, disputes, cash flow, operational changes, and business planning, as well as insights into security, mental wellbeing, and rehabilitation. We’re seeing out the year with a great read!

One thing we want to flag in advance of next year is a change to the schedule for InHouse magazine. In response to our ongoing review of communications and services, and valuable feedback from members, next year we will reduce the number of InHouse magazine issues from six to four. We’ll also take a look at the mix or articles we offer but we’ll still make sure to provide plenty of practical, technical, and topical insights from trade and industry experts.

But for now, we wish all our members, stakeholders and partners a safe holiday season and all the very best for the year ahead.

Here’s to a holiday filled with laughter, relaxation, and happiness!

NZCB InHouse Editor

InHouse magazine, including the wrap, is 100% recyclable. InHouse is printed on PEFC-certified paper, supporting the growth of responsible forest management worldwide. The press used to print InHouse utilises a UV light drying system (LED), meaning there is no solvent to evaporate, and no environmental pollutants are formed. It also uses less power than traditional print technology, which helps reduce overall CO 2 emissions.

The contents of InHouse may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or in part, without written permission of the Editor. All material received will be assumed to be intended for publication unless clearly labelled ‘Not for Publication’ and will be published at the discretion of the Editor. Views expressed in articles in InHouse are not necessarily those of New Zealand Certified Builders Association. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information included in this publication, the designers, publishers, and Editor take no responsibility for errors, omissions or for any consequences of reliance on this information. Articles are not intended to be relied upon as legal advice.

Chief Executive’s report

As we head into the summer break, I’m feeling more optimistic about the economic outlook than I did at the start of the year.

It’s been a year of constant change in the construction industry but I feel we have reached the bottom of the economic cycle, and we are now on an upward trajectory. There are the ‘green shoots’ signs of interest rates dropping, and the government is looking to engage the private sector to undertake social housing at scale while also stimulating housing development through their underwriting proposal.

Indeed, the government’s appetite to reinvigorate the construction sector across 2024 has been exceptional. Recently, a wellknown media figure told me they cannot recall a period in which the government has been so focused on construction, while journalists openly confess that the media is obsessed with house prices and house building data.

This government interest and media attention has played out well for New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB), and has come as we have stepped up our advocacy efforts, communications, and public relations expertise across 2024. These efforts to increase our public profile and government engagement has been quite deliberate, and we are quickly establishing ourselves as a trusted commentator on matters relating to the residential building market, while also being consulted by MBIE on proposed changes to the building regulatory system.

We are quickly establishing ourselves as a trusted commentator on matters relating to the residential building market, while also being consulted by MBIE on proposed changes to the building regulatory system.

Another aspect of this profile-building work is an assessment of our digital marketing, with a particular focus on our website, and how well it performs with search engines and connects to our digital marking campaigns. We’ve changed our website partner, and have undertaken a thorough ‘look under the hood’ to gauge the website’s effectiveness. As a result, the website is performing a lot better, which ultimately translates into more referrals for our members, and we will continue this work in 2025 with the recent appointment of an inhouse digital growth marketer.

We head into the Christmas break with a National Support Office (NSO) Team that features several new faces across the past twelve months, which includes a specialist Education and Events team, new members in the Marketing and Communications team, and the appointment of a trade-qualified builder with a business degree in the important Membership and Technical role.

Welcome to all our new hires but I also want to farewell and thank our outgoing team members – Nick Matthews, Julie Thomas, Kirsty Armstrong, Ashleigh Fletcher, and Sophie Cleal. You have made some incredible contributions to NZCB over the years, and I am very grateful for your efforts. Good luck for the next chapter!

For 2025, the focus turns to launching a new marketing campaign that will look to persuade homeowners considering a residential building project to consider an NZCB builder. We will also be making a major marketing push on our newly launched Studio Plans, and we will be undertaking a significant refresh of the NZCB Toolshed, which we will be working on across the first half of 2025.

It’s been a tough year for many of our members, and I continue to be impressed by our members’ resilience and pragmatism, as you have pivoted to take on building work of a type that sits outside of your traditional market.

The reason you can do this is because you’re trade-qualified and can turn your hand to a wide range of building projects. That’s the message I’ve been pushing whenever I’ve spoken with the media or with government officials and ministers. It’s a simple message but one that really helps us stand apart from the crowd.

As 2024 winds down, please take time to recharge with family and friends. On behalf of the team at NSO, I wish you a great Christmas and summer break.

Malcolm Fleming NZCB Chief Executive

Advocating for our members

An important part of our work at New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) is advocating on behalf of our members on various issues that come up in the news, or on government proposals affecting the industry. See below for a summary of the stories and submissions we’ve been working on recently. You can read all our media comments in detail at www.nzcb.nz/news.

H1 regulations

The Government may be changing the focus of a review into H1 building standards, which relate to insulation and thermal performance of houses, thanks to work done by NZCB and others.

BusinessDesk has reported that the Government may be looking to tweak the existing standards, which were introduced in 2022, rather than rolling them back completely as originally proposed.

The change in direction follows research done by NZCB, EBOSS, architects DGSE and Your QS. This research showed that fears of large increases in the cost of new builds because of the H1 standards were unfounded. The extra insulation costs imposed by the H1 regulations could be as low as $2,200 compared to what they would have been before the regulations were introduced.

NZCB undertook the research following the Government’s initial proposal to rollback the standards completely.

Self-certification

The Government has announced it will be looking into allowing builders to self-certify low-risk work in order to speed up and simplify the building process, ultimately making it cheaper and easier for homeowners to build and renovate.

NZCB Chief Executive Malcolm Fleming spoke to various media outlets welcoming the general direction of the proposals but noted that one of the issues to be worked through when MBIE consults on the proposals will be insurance liabilities if selfcertified work proves problematic in future.

MBIE will be consulting on the proposals, and NZCB will make a submission, which you will be able to read on our submissions page www.nzcb.nz/submissions.

Remote building inspections

The Government has continued its push to increase the use of remote building inspections to speed up the construction and consenting process.

Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk has voiced disapproval with the current process – and claimed that remote inspections will make the building process more efficient and affordable.

Malcolm Fleming told Newstalk ZB that this process works well in remote parts of the country – or high-congestion areas like Auckland CBD. Listen to the full interview at www.nzcb.nz/news.

Andrew Smith

NZCB Communications and Engagement Adviser

Halo Guarantees Limited updates

It’s been a busy year for Halo Guarantees Limited, although new applications are slightly down on last year, which isn’t surprising when building consents countrywide are down 22% compared with 2023.

The mix between new builds and renovations hasn’t materially changed, although we have noticed a steady number of applications for infill housing projects in Auckland and Christchurch (primarily for 2 to 6 units). The volumes of applications approved are $2.3m (forecast) for 2024, compared with $2.5m for 2023.

Changes to the Guarantee

With more policies in force and a corresponding increase in client interactions and claims, we are making some amendments to the guarantee policy to improve clarity. These changes will take effect on 1 January 2025, and we will make a new version of the guarantee document available on this date.

• Transfer on death or divorce process: We have amended to outline what’s required to facilitate the transfer in these situations.

• New delays clause: We have been advised of a number of builds that have paused construction, primarily for client driven reasons. The new clause will state that “If the build is delayed greater than 90 days, Halo needs to be notified with the reasons and expected recommencement date. If the delay is likely to be lengthy it will be at our discretion whether we continue to provide cover”.

• New defects present on sale of property clause: We’ve had situations where the client purchasing a home has raised an issue and the client selling tells them to claim it on the guarantee. As the purchaser was not the owner when the defect was identified they can’t claim. The clause will now explain that if a home with a guarantee is sold, Halo will not cover defects that are present on sale, and that a vendor needs to submit a claim prior to settlement.

• Clarity on refund process: These changes mainly clarify what happens when a member goes into liquidation.

• Changes to the way we manage liquidations: Currently we cancel the guarantee if the member goes into liquidation. From 1 January 2025, we will align this process with client cancellations, which states that if the client engages a new New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) builder, we may agree to carry on cover (noting that the new builder is not liable for past work).

Labour-only Guarantees

From 1 January 2025, we stop selling labour-only guarantees. We have noted a number of instances where the product is being sold to clients by the Head Contractor (not a member) or Developer incorrectly. This is potentially misleading and may cause damage to both the Halo and NZCB brands.

We have also had various queries asking for clarification about what is and is not covered. To clarify, if a Halo receives a claim on a labour-only policy, we will only pay for the labour component, not the product required to remediate.

Client claims

We have received a number of claims this year, with the majority being remediated by the builder involved.

However, there have been a few claims where the original builder has gone into liquidation and once approved, the client has chosen another NZCB member to remediate. We have paid out four claims this year that are in excess of $50,000 and the clients were all very thankful that they had the guarantee in place.

Ultimately, Halo paying claims demonstrates to current and future clients that in the unlikely event their builder is unable to fix an issue that is covered under the policy, Halo can arrange for this to be completed at no cost to the client.

Any questions?

If you have any questions our team is here to assist you. Please feel free to reach out to us on 0800 141 490 or hello@halo.nz.

Shaun Riley Halo Guarantees Limited Chief Executive

Membership fees confirmed for 2025

Following the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Board meeting on 7 November, we have confirmed membership fees for 2025 and made some changes to the way we approach individual memberships. These changes will take effect from 1 January 2025.

Business memberships

Overall fees for NZCB Business members will remain the same as for 2024. This levy covers not only developing and placing advertisements but also the cost of producing NZCB publications, public relations and media activities, digital marketing initiatives, design work, and a range of other marketing opportunities that come up throughout the year.

Individual memberships

Previously, we have offered a range of individual memberships, depending on the nature of members’ employment.

We have consolidated these different memberships into a single individual category, which will be $190 (excl. GST). This will mean minor fee increases of around $20-$60 p.a. for some individual members, and a fee decrease of around $140 p.a. for others.

We have also introduced a Retired Member category, available to those who have previously been NZCB Members but are no longer working. This will be $75 (excl. GST) p.a.

Reach out if money is tight…

Times are tough in the construction industry at the moment and we realise some of our members might be worried about how to pay the bills.

We want you to be able to maintain your NZCB membership, so if money is tight please get in touch to discuss your situation. We can set up a payment plan for you, or look at adjusting your membership to a different category to see you through. Just email receivables@nzcb.nz, and we’ll see what we can do.

Associate memberships

“Associate Member” is a non-voting membership category for non-trade-qualified individuals.

These memberships have two subcategories, depending on whether the member is associated with an NZCB Business member.

NZCB Associate Members

These memberships are for individuals who are affiliated in some way with an NZCB Business member, for example a non-trade-qualified business partner. These are $150 (excl. GST) p.a.

Non-NZCB Associate Members

This category might be appropriate, for example, for an owner or employee of a building services supplier. These memberships are charged at $250 (excl. GST) p.a.

For NZCB Business members, we offer one complimentary Individual Membership to the trade-qualified director of the business.

If you have additional people in your business who you would like to register as an NZCB member – for example, business partners – they can become members in their own right, either as individuals (trade qualified) or as associates (non-trade qualified).

Remember that as part of your membership, you can access the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for free. NZCB will cover sessions for you and your employees. It’s a great service to help you or your staff if you are experiencing any personal or workrelated difficulties.

Book an EAP appointment at www.book.habit.health.

Learn Online: NZCB Learn is open for business

We are excited to announce that our new education programme NZCB Learn is officially live and open for business!

Flexibility is key

One of the main priorities for us when we designed this programme was to ensure it was flexible and responsive to the needs of our members. We conducted a survey earlier this year, asking about our members’ learning preferences, and we found 59% preferred blended learning, 28% wanted face-to-face sessions, and 14% favoured online modules only. So we’ve worked hard to make these courses available to you wherever you are, in a way that suits you – whether that be in-person, online, or a bit of both.

Since launching NZCB Learn, engagement from our members has increased significantly. Many are taking an interest with some reaching out to see how we can help them further their professional development. We are able to provide support not only online but also through phone and in-person sessions, and we’re more than happy to create bespoke courses tailored to specific needs.

First cab off the rank – Coach the Crew

Our Coach the Crew courses (supported by Mitre 10 Trade) are gaining momentum nationwide, with excellent feedback so far. As we continue our journey south in the coming months, we remain adaptable and ready to respond to requests from any region at a moment’s notice.

I found Coach the Crew to be better than expected, and there were some great discussion points with others.

Our face-to-face courses may have just begun, but they’ve already been well received, thanks to the invaluable feedback from participants. These courses are designed to be flexible, allowing for a tailored focus based on the group’s needs. As we expand into the South Island and revisit regions in the North, including Auckland and then travel upward to Northland, we’re committed to delivering quality training sessions. And for those areas where attendance numbers fall short, we don’t cancel – we simply postpone.

We’re particularly excited about the upcoming launch of our Business 101 and Pathways courses, which will be available both online and face-to-face. These courses will further enhance our members’ skills and knowledge, ensuring we remain leaders in the building industry.

Health and Safety materials

In line with consistent member requests, we are also developing a range of health and safety templates, training materials, and support documents.

Our developing Health and Safety space is in good hands. Marcie (NZCB Education and Events Manager) has extensive Health and Safety experience in both building and civil construction, and she ensures that we remain up-to-date and aligned with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA). She holds a New Zealand Certificate in Health and Safety and the highly regarded NEBOSH IGC qualifications, keeping her skills fresh through ongoing professional development.

Coach the Crew Gisborne.

Access your learning records

We’re also proud to introduce Reach 360, our new frictionless learning platform, designed to hold your records of completed learning. This has been a direct response to the 85% of members who said a record of learning would be useful. We are now working

to build a register to capture offline learning as well, ensuring a comprehensive record for everyone. This project will continue to evolve as our access to suitable technologies grows.

NZCB Learn Library is coming

Another standout finding from the survey showed that 90% of respondents were interested in accessing an online NZCB library offering short courses, standard operating procedures (SOPs), best practices, and other key resources. We heard you loud and clear and are working hard to deliver exactly that. Keep your eye on the Toolshed!

Finally, a huge thank you to Mitre 10 Trade for their ongoing support of Coach the Crew. Together, we’re building a stronger, more skilled workforce for the future.

Need further help?

If you want to talk about training in your area or if you want help developing Health and Safety templates, processes or procedures or any other business support please email Marcia on learn@nzcb.nz or call 021 365 947.

Katrina Foster NZCB Education and Events Coordinator (left) Marcia Hintz NZCB Education and Events Manager (right)

Changes to AA benefit pricing

One of the great benefits you get as an New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) member is discounted pricing for AA Business Care membership.

Recently, AA put up their own pricing, which means we have had to increase the price we offer our members. But don’t worry, you’ll still save a heap!

Previously, we have offered AA memberships for NZCB members for $43 per annum but AA has increased their pricing by around 35%.

So from 1 November, we have increased the cost of these memberships to $58 per annum. But compared with the RRP of AA memberships of $99 for Auckland drivers and $89 for drivers elsewhere in the country, you’re still getting a great discount.

It’s important to remember that your AA membership covers the vehicle, not the individual. This means that no matter who is driving your company truck or ute, they can call for AA Roadservice, 24/7, 365 days a year.

How do I find out more?

To find out more about the AA membership offer and to sign up, check out the AA Motoring benefit listed under the Deals and Discounts section on the members-only Toolshed (www.nzcb.nz/members/member-benefits) or email linda@nzcb.nz.

Linda Moody NZCB Senior Brand and Partnership Adviser

Emma and Troy from Coach the Crew Auckland.

Membership and Technical Manager appointed

We were sad to bid farewell to long time Membership and Technical Manager Nick Matthews at the start of October. Nick made a major contribution to New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) over many years and he was always going to be hard to replace.

Fortunately, we have found a fantastic replacement in the form of Tauranga-based Scott Rasmussen, who began as our new Membership and Technical Manager on 25 November.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Business Studies from Massey, Scott spent 14 years in the finance industry before moving into building as an adult apprentice in 2016. Scott is trade-qualified in carpentry and

an LBP, and before joining NZCB he was a construction project manager on a multi-residential building project in Bay of Plenty.

We interviewed a number of impressive people for this role, but Scott was the standout candidate. As well as his trade qualifications, we’re excited about the broad range of experience he’ll bring to the role, including his expertise in the customer experience space.

Congratulations Scott and welcome to the NZCB family!

Malcolm Fleming NZCB Chief Executive

Tools down team… it’s time for a break

It’s been a long year and the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) National Support Office (NSO) will be taking a break over Christmas. We’ll be closed from 5:00pm Friday 20 December 2024 and we will reopen at 8:00am on Monday 6 January 2025.

Online resources

The online Building Contracts will remain accessible on the NZCB members-only Toolshed for you to complete during the holiday period.

You will need to make a credit card payment before purchasing them, and a paid invoice will be emailed to you in late January 2025. Once you have paid for your contract, it will be stored in the ‘My Contracts’ section, and you can download it from there.

Clothing orders

We’re taking the chance over the quieter holiday period to do a stocktake on the clothing section of our online shop. We’re not taking any more clothing orders currently but will reopen the shop in the New Year with an improved range of clothing items.

Fisher & Paykel orders and stationery

Please ensure that your Fisher & Paykel and stationery orders are submitted by 4:00pm on Tuesday 17 December 2024. This will allow us sufficient time to process your order and arrange postage before the holiday break. Orders placed after this date may not be processed until late January 2025.

Online shop

The online shop will remain open during the holiday period for all other items (excluding clothing). However, please be aware that orders placed between Wednesday 20 December 2024 and Monday 6 January 2025, will not be processed until late January 2025. This includes hard copy contracts.

The NZCB NSO would like to wish you, your families and your teams a safe, happy and relaxing holiday season. We look forward to working with you all again in 2025!

New GIB® Fire Rated Systems Manual

We are pleased to announce that the latest updated GIB® Fire Rated Systems Manual is now available. Includes

– New fire-rated wall systems

– Mass timber encapsulation systems

– Additional construction details based on customer feedback ensuring that designers and installers can use it effectively and efficiently.

LEARN MORE

New marketing approach gathers pace

Over the past few months, we have been making some changes to the way we market New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) and the work our members do. You may have already seen some of these changes take effect, with a stronger presence in the media and a refresh of some of our member communications, but there is much more to come in the New Year.

As part of these changes, we’ve restructured the Marketing and Communications team in the National Support Office (NSO). This process has taken time to get right, and has involved a lot of discussion internally about the skills we need and what this

Linda Moody

means for our people, but we’ve now confirmed the roles and have completed our recruitment. The size of the team remains largely unchanged with me as manager overseeing four full-time, permanent roles:

Linda is our new Senior Brand and Partnerships Adviser. Linda has been with NZCB for many years and her wealth of experience and passion for our members and partners is a major asset. She will have responsibility for overseeing our brand and how this comes through in our advertising, as well as managing our partners and getting the best deal for our members. Previously, she has overseen the production of our member magazine and newsletters, but this responsibility now passes to our Communications Adviser.

Andrew Smith

Andrew has joined us permanently as our Senior Communications and Engagement Adviser. Andrew joined us in July on contract to support me in setting up the communications function and we are very fortunate to have retained someone of his calibre permanently. Already we are seeing the benefits of having a dedicated communications resource not only with our engagement with industry and government, but in helping boost NZCB’s presence in the media.

Alistair Shaw

Alistair joined us at the start of October as our new Digital Marketing Manager, working to lift the performance of our digital platforms and digital marketing campaigns. Alistair is a seasoned digital marketer who is looking to increase our membership and engagement with homeowners through all things website, social media, and digital leads.

Kalliana Kong

Kalliana joined us halfway through November as our new Senior Marketing Adviser, to look after our regional marketing activities, new initiatives and marketing campaigns like the new NZCB Studio plans and our sustainability initiatives.

A seasoned and experienced marketer with broad experience that includes time in the building sector, Kalliana will also support our Education and Events team to deliver our annual events programme.

One of the hardest things about this marketing refresh has been saying farewell to Kirsty Armstrong (Member Benefits Coordinator), Julie Thomas (Revere Magazine Editor & Project Coordinator), and Ashleigh Fletcher (Senior Marketer & Digital Marketing Specialist) at the end of October. We have also said goodbye to Sophie Cleal (Digital Marketing Coordinator), who moved to Brisbane earlier this year with her partner and has now taken up a role over there.

I was deeply grateful to them for the positive, professional way in which they engaged with me and the leadership team about these changes, and they offered some valuable thoughts on what the team needed skill-wise as we look to the new year, many of which we are looking to implement. I wish them all the very best.

I am excited about our plans for the future, and in particular for an exciting new marketing campaign. This will focus on raising awareness of NZCB publicly and encouraging homeowners to use our builders. We want NZCB to be the first choice for anyone wanting a trusted, qualified, and reputable builder, and to be a strong, credible, impartial voice on behalf of the building industry as a whole.

At the end of the day, our job is to grow the NZCB membership and create real benefits for our existing members. I’m looking forward to working with our team, with the rest of the NSO, and with our members to take our association to the next level.

All heights

All substrates

All projects

A range of aluminium joist-beam profiles for ultra-low to elevated decks

Build over concrete, pavers, waterproof membrane, natural ground

For all specifications from simple residential to complex commercial

Nicola Airey NZCB Marketing and Comms Manager

Kirsty Armstrong

Julie Thomas Ashleigh Fletcher

Sophie Cleal

A busy couple of months for NZCB events

The past couple of months have been filled with a series of engaging events, gatherings, and training sessions, bringing New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) members together across the country.

Regular chippie breakfasts, “Chew the Fat” sessions, factory tours and other catch-ups have created valuable opportunities for members to connect, share ideas, and support each other. Highlights have included family fun days, zoo outings, and a special men’s health event organised by the Taupō region, all aimed at fostering a sense of community and well-being beyond the work environment.

Eight nationwide golf tournaments also took place, combining friendly competition with a focus on giving back. Proceeds from these events have gone to several meaningful causes, including Rainbow Place, the Cancer Society, St. John, the Geyser Community Foundation, and the NZCB Apprentice Trust. With each event, regions have stepped up to make these gatherings successful, showing tremendous dedication to supporting these charities. Thanks to everyone who participated, donated, or volunteered, these contributions will make a lasting impact.

Training has been another focal point for the Events team, with the “Coach the Crew” program travelling around the country and delivering five courses so far. This training series strengthens leadership and support skills, providing members with tools to foster positive and productive work environments. Planning for 2025 is now underway, with the calendar filling up with apprentice support events and additional learning opportunities to ensure members have access to essential resources for professional growth and success.

Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for the NZCB Conference 2025, which will be held in Hamilton on 6 and 7 June. Early-bird pricing is available now and will run through to March, offering a chance to lock in discounted prices. So make sure you book in a couple of days leave now to get to the conference!

Feedback from members and input from focus groups have informed exciting updates to the format, including spreading keynote sessions across both days to allow for more networking, workshops, and interactive sessions. These changes aim to enhance the overall conference experience, making it both valuable and enjoyable for all attendees. Find out more by visiting www.nzcbconference.nz.

Meanwhile, planning is also well underway for the Apprentice Challenge 2025. The regional competition will take place around the country with the winners progressing to the national final at the NZCB Conference. This competition is always a fantastic showcase of the skills and passion of NZCB apprentices across the country, so if you employ or know a talented apprentice, encourage them to enter. Check out page 50 or visit www.apprenticechallenge.nz for more information on how to get involved.

As we wrap up the year and look toward 2025, we want to thank everyone for their dedication and hard work. Together, we’ve achieved a lot, and we’re excited about what’s ahead. From Katrina and I, have an epic holiday season and here’s to a successful 2025 – full of connection, learning, and growth!

Catch you next issue.

Katrina Foster NZCB Education and Events Coordinator (left)

Marcia Hintz NZCB Education and Events Manager (right)

News Bites

Nail your Record of Work forms with SmartBuild

SmartBuild’s unique online system is the smartest way to complete LBP and manage LBP tasks and forms.

Developed right here in Aotearoa

New Zealand by a practising LBP, the system is designed to mirror the way we work, be practical, easy to use, and meet all legal requirements

So how does it work? Businesses engaging LBPs invite and manage their teams. Solo LBPs and team members simply log in, select tasks from our highly detailed tick box options, and send forms with one click.

Everything is online, available anytime and from any device.

SmartBuild standout features include:

• Error free ROW forms: Ensures that every LBP form is error-free. The LBP and project details are automatically filled in and the forms are signed and dated. No printing, no hand writing or scanning.

• Matching RBW tasks to LBP licence. Matching tasks to the right licences.

• Share project documents and photos with your team: A single place for all project records.

• Secure storage: Safely stores project files, photos, and records for 10 years.

• Flexible pricing plans: Including the Free Solo plan and a 90 days free introductory period for teams.

Save BIG across a range of selected Samsung products

We’re excited to announce our new Samsung Electronics New Zealand partnership, with fantastic offers available for our members.

Samsung is a global leader in consumer and business electronics offering a wide range of products including mobile, whiteware, audio visual, TVs and much more.

Cooling solutions for Kiwi homes this summer

Kiwi summers can get hot, and keeping our homes cool without adequate ventilation can be hard. Fortunately, there are several solutions to this problem, ranging from whole home ventilation to ceiling sweep fans.

If you’re looking for a system that will help cool a room without exterior penetrations, the Skyfan DC from Ventair is ideal. This beautifully crafted range of ceiling sweep fans uses quiet DC motor technology and aerodynamic blade design to maximise comfort in a quiet and efficient package.

Skyfan’s quick-click blade assembly and twist-and-lock base mean it is quick and easy to install in new-builds and renovations. This quiet ceiling fan is ideal for cooling bedrooms during summer, but can also help distribute warm air in winter with its reversible spin.

We’re absolutely thrilled to have them on board, and we’re sure our members will make the most of this partnership.

For more details on this awesome deal log in to the Members-Only Toolshed www.nzcb.nz/members/member-benefits/ to check it out.

It’s time you switch to SmartBuild. Find us here: www.smartbuild.co.nz, email info@smartbuild.nz, or call 021 650 919.

Skyfan is available in white, black, and teak, with optional tri-colour LED and it comes in a range of sizes. It can be controlled via the LCD remote (or optional wall controller and app) with options for fans speed or duration. LED models are dimmable, and the light colour temperature can be adjusted.

Note: a ceiling sweep fan is not a suitable replacement for a ventilation system, but it will help cool a space during summer!

For more information refer to our website www.simx.co.nz or scan the QR Code.

Maximise efficiency and reduce waste on-site

If you’re sealing gaps, insulating spaces, or filling voids, our calculator takes the guesswork out of the job, ensuring you have the right amount of material every time. Save time, reduce waste, and get the job done efficiently with the Soudal Sealant and Foam Calculator.

This handy tool is designed specifically for trade professionals to quickly and accurately estimate the amount of sealant and foam needed for any project.

Scan the QR code to find out more.

VelaSun® – the new fixed roof system from HomePlus®

Transform your outdoor living space with the VelaSun® pergola roof system from HomePlus. Designed to provide maximum comfort and protection, this elegant aluminium system with three roof infill options offers the perfect shelter for outdoor entertainment spaces, allowing enjoyment of the outdoors in comfort, no matter the weather.

Designed for all-weather protection, VelaSun® shields you from harsh sun and rain with durable UV-resistant polycarbonate or glass roofing options. It is also available without infill as a roofless design.

The custom New Zealand-designed and built system features a durable low-maintenance aluminium frame, powder coated from the

New Vulcan Cladding ‘Standard Series’ profile by Abodo

Recently, Abodo’s original Vulcan Cladding –Architectural Series was complemented by the new ‘Standard Series’, featuring some knots and resin pockets, bringing a light natural character to the timber’s appearance, all at an accessible price.

Following the popularity of Vulcan weatherboards’’ concealed fix system, a new WB18 secret fix profile has been introduced to ‘Standard Series’ replacing the AW55 and AW702 face fix only profiles. This new builder-friendly secret fix profile offers the option for a clean appearance with no visible fixings through the

face, making Abodo’s ‘Standard Series’ a great alternative to deliver a high-performance timber cladding for modern budget-conscious builds.

Key benefits of Vulcan Cladding – Vertical Grain, Standard Series:

• Available in Bandsawn Finish and one secret fix profile, WB18 Profile 135x18mm can be installed vertically and horizontally.

• Offered in Abodo’s nine Protector coating colours

• Thermally modified using heat and steam for enhanced durability and stability.

• Created with Abodo’s patented vertical grain technology for additional stability and improved weathering.

• New Zealand grown and manufactured from rapidly renewable Radiata forests.

wide range of Dulux® colours, seamlessly complementing or blending in with any architectural aesthetic.

Covered by our nationwide installer network and a PS1, it is ideal for new builds or retrofitting to an existing structure. VelaSun® is easy to install and can be customised by incorporating options that include LED lighting and dropdown screens.

In addition to its practical benefits, VelaSun® enhances the visual appeal of a property, adding value and presenting a stylish, functional solution for outdoor living. Choose VelaSun® from HomePlus and transform outdoor spaces into extensions of the home.

Please contact HomePlus for more information at specify@homeplus.co.nz

• Carbon storing. Each square metre of 18mm thick Vulcan Cladding (Standard Series) stores 7.56kg of carbon.

To order a sample, visit www.abodo.co.nz/samples or call 09 249 0100.

New Secret Fix Cladding Profile

Vulcan Cladding – Standard Series (WB18 Profile 135x18)

Watch for these cash flow warning signs

Cash flow problems can cause serious problems for your business, but they can creep up on you without you always being aware of them.

Watch out for these six key warning signs to keep your business financially healthy and running smoothly. From protecting your profit margins to staying on top of taxes, these simple strategies will help you avoid common financial pitfalls.

1. You’re tempted to lower your margins to win more jobs

Resist the urge to cut margins, even in a competitive or challenging market. While you may win more quotes in the short term, it’s really just a race to the bottom. Once you’ve dropped your margins, it’s tough to raise them again, which impacts long-term profitability.

Focus instead on attracting your ideal clients and showing your value early on. Excellent communication, being organised and having efficient processes in place will set you apart from the competition and allow you to charge a fair price for your services. Always know your break-even point, so you know what you need to invoice each month to cover costs.

2. Your turnover has dropped, but your expenses haven’t

A drop in turnover is a good time to review your general business expenses and cut back where possible. Are you paying for subscriptions or services that no longer provide value? Take the time to assess all your outgoings, like project software that may have been superseded or other unused services. Reducing unnecessary costs will free up cash flow, keeping more money in your business when it’s needed most.

3. You scramble to pay taxes, creditors and wages when they’re due

Set aside money into different “buckets” for your obligations. Allocate funds for creditors, taxes, GST and wage-related costs such as annual leave, sick leave and ACC. By putting money aside as you go, you’ll ensure these costs are covered and avoid any lastminute crises. You’ll be able to truly relax on your summer holiday, knowing that holiday pay and other wage costs are already covered.

4. You forget or struggle to pay PAYE on time

Stay on top of your PAYE obligations by using payroll software such as Smartly or Pay Hero. These services automatically deduct PAYE when they pay wages and file with the IRD on your behalf. It’s an easy way to ensure PAYE is paid on time and avoid penalties.

Remember, missing PAYE payments is a criminal offence. If you do fall behind on tax obligations, it’s best to front-foot the issue by reaching out to the IRD and discussing a plan.

5. You don’t factor in overheads when quoting for projects

Regularly review your business overheads and make sure you’re recovering these costs by allocating a portion to each project. This includes admin, project support and project management costs – essentially any expense tied to running a building project efficiently. By doing so, you’ll ensure your quotes and estimates reflect the true cost of delivering the project.

6. You don’t regularly review your cash flow or financial reports

Hire a book-keeper! A good book-keeper is worth their weight in gold. They keep your financials up to date, help manage cash flow and raise concerns before they become bigger issues. Having a great relationship with your accountant is equally important, as they can offer higher-level financial support and advice. Regularly reviewing your financials helps you spot cash flow problems early so you can act quickly to resolve them.

By keeping an eye out for these warning signs and taking the right action, you’ll be in a stronger position to manage your finances effectively and ensure your business continues to thrive.

Chisholm, Director, My Smart Office and National Partner (Starter) of NZCB. Amanda

Making the switch from manual to digital

We at FreeUp believe in the incredible efficiency power of job management software (JMS). It can save you time, money, and stress when it’s set up properly and used to its full capacity.

However, we also recognise that taking a leap into the world of digital business tools is daunting for those starting more or less from scratch. Manual processes like pen and paper or simple spreadsheets have served many trades business owners very well for a long time, and when systems are solidly in place it can be difficult to move away from them.

Our software experts are well-versed in helping businesses make the switch, guiding them through a process that will take them to the next level of efficiency with minimal disruption to their operations and disgruntlement from their team.

So if you’re thinking about making the switch, what are the basics you need to think about?

Figure out what exactly your processes involve

Being aware of what it is that your administrative systems do –and what you’d need the software to do – is a good first step. Often, our clients find that there’s more to this than they thought. We recommend taking the time to consciously notice and even note down exactly what it is you’re handwriting into a diary, printing out, entering into spreadsheets, and even how you’re communicating with your team.

All of these details make up a picture of how your business operates. That information will be crucial when it comes to choosing the best possible software and managing a smooth transition.

Identify common requests for information

Double-handing information is one of the biggest inefficiencies for trades businesses. So it’s worth paying attention to which pieces of information are being asked for over and over again by team members or clients.

Imagine: the client asks one team member, who doesn’t know the answer so has to call someone at the office to check the paper schedule, and that person doesn’t have the phone number for the client, so they have to relay the information back. Some critical detail about a job gets changed, and whoever hears about it has to let the office administrator know, who then has to get the message out to all relevant parties via their preferred method of communication.

Make sure your team knows what’s going on, why, and when. Getting everyone onboard with the change is a crucial part of a smooth experience.

All that takes a lot of time but job management software is there to help, with job cards acting as a central source of truth that’s updated in real time for everyone to reference. Identifying which information is often needed or requested will help you to choose a software package that has the right features to close the gap that is causing your double handling and improve the workflow for your team. This is an easy win; embrace it!

Use the help at hand

Most software has help available: blogs, user guides, video tutorials, and more. There is also plenty of user-generated content on YouTube and other sites that can help you to troubleshoot the software during your transition.

FreeUp provides more targeted and tailored help that can take into account not only the tech itself but your individual systems, manual and digital alike. Our experience and knowledge of the softwares we work with enables us to get a little bit creative and think outside the square.

We can also train your staff and help you to ensure that you are optimising your software to extract the most value. Expert advice and guidance like this can make the transition process much smoother.

Introduce different aspects gradually

We find that very few people want to have a completely new system dumped on them all at once! For most of our clients, we recommend a slow and steady change process.

• Keep hold of your paper registers, forms, schedules, and Excel spreadsheets for a while, and run them alongside the new software functions as they are introduced.

• Look for gaps as both systems work in tandem for a while. Where are you falling back on the old system and why?

• Identify people struggling with aspects of the new system and work with them one-on-one (or delegate this to FreeUp).

• Keep some things around as back-up. For example, technicians should always carry a few paper service check sheets in case technology fails them.

Above all, communicate

Make sure your team knows what’s going on, why, and when. Getting everyone onboard with the change is a crucial part of a smooth experience.

Ideally, you should involve anyone who will use the digital tools in the decision-making process somehow; this might mean sending out a survey or asking for their pain points and wishlists. If you’d prefer to make the decision unilaterally (or with the help of the professionals), that’s OK. However, we recommend that you let them

know of the change as soon as possible, provide a timeline for the transition, and keep lines of communication open throughout. Good change management is key to this and many other transitions. You can’t drop a new software on your people and expect them to run with it; a trouble-free transition requires careful oversight.

There are many different approaches that people and organisations take to change management. The most important thing to remember for a business owner is that changing from manual to digital is a process, and one that requires thought, effort, and a plan.

Need help?

If you need help with selecting the right JMS, making the transition, setting up your software, and training your staff to use the new tools, the FreeUp team is happy to be of assistance.

Beaumont, FreeUp . FreeUp is a NZCB National Partner (Starter) and tech advisor for builders – making the process quick and easy, from selecting the right software to setting up the system to training staff. FreeUp also operates the NZCB Technology and Software helpline for members. Contact us on 021 149 8785 or visit www.freeup.co.nz

Kelli

Get paid and resolve disputes through adjudication

Adjudication is highly effective in resolving construction disputes. It is quick, cheaper than litigation, and based on a “pay now, argue later” principle. Experienced construction law experts decide the outcome, quickly and fairly, which makes it a top choice for New Zealand builders wanting to keep cash flowing.

But like most things, you get out of it what you put in. So to make the most of the process, come prepared. Good preparation starts when the contract is entered into and continues throughout the job. It is especially important at the first sign of trouble.

When the contract is entered into

• Clear terms: Ensure that everyone knows what to expect, and your contracts include clear scope, plans, specifications and payment terms, including milestones, due dates, and procedures for payment claims and payment schedules.

During the job

• Keep documents: Keep good records, including payment claims, invoices, emails, texts, and other correspondence (especially at the first sign of trouble). Record all variations or scope changes in writing.

• A good filing system: The ability to find and submit a good ‘paper trail’ of documents and records is important to support your case.

When seeking payment

• Issue payment claims: Issue payment claims correctly and on time per the contract and the Construction Contracts Act 2002 (CCA). The CCA has strict requirements for a valid payment claim, and the information that must be included. You can find these requirements on our website (www.buildingdisputestribunal.co.nz) as well as our template payment claim forms.

If you issue a valid payment claim and the client does not respond with a valid payment schedule on time, you have a right to payment for the payment claim amount.

• Respond to payment schedules: Carefully review payment schedules from the client. If they are not for the full amount of the claim or do not contain the information required under the CAA, promptly dispute the payment schedule. Seek clarification or negotiate a resolution, if possible. Don’t sit on it!

When a dispute arises

• Seek legal advice if in doubt: Disputes can be complex, and it is a good idea to seek advice from an experienced construction lawyer to put you in the strongest possible position.

• Complete the required forms: Complete the adjudication notices and forms with as much detail as possible, to inform the adjudicator of what you are claiming, the evidence you have to support your claim, and why you should win.

• Provide the evidence: Collate your records in order with a clear narrative of events, and show how your actions and your payment claim comply with the CCA and contract requirements. In summary, the more prepared you are before you go to adjudication, the better your chances of success; that means keeping records of document variations and scope changes throughout a project’s life cycle, and communicating well – in writing – with the other party. Being able to pull these records together and present them clearly to the adjudicator are crucial when it comes to adjudication.

Adjudication is highly effective in resolving construction disputes.

About us

The Building Disputes Tribunal (BDT) provides the experts who will determine the outcome of your dispute. Our registry team cannot give legal advice, but they can discuss the process and requirements of adjudication, check it is right for your dispute, and support and guide you and the other party through the process. Contact us at registrar@buildigndisputestribunal.co.nz or phone 0508 284 534

Disclaimer: Information published in this article is not intended to be comprehensive. No person should act in reliance on any statement in the article and the Building Disputes Tribunal accordingly does not accept any responsibility. Readers are advised that specialist legal advice should be sought in relation to all matters covered in this article.

of Commercial Contracts at The ADR

. Michael’s role includes managing the BDT. BDT is part of the ADR Centre and provides guidance to parties and their advisers as to the most appropriate dispute resolution process for their dispute. www.buildingdisputestribunal.co.nz.

Alexander Lyall, (left) Research Clerk and Michael Jamieson, (right) Manager

Centre

WE HAVE PUT POSI-STRUTS TO THE TEST. SCAN TO SEE POSI AND I-JOIST GO HEAD-TO-HEAD*.

*

Results are based on an actual comparative build utilising Posi-Strut No Floor Hanger system.

The Uber case: are your workers really “contractors”?

The Court of Appeal has recently declared four Uber drivers to be employees, not contractors. This matters because if a worker holds the status of an employee, they enjoy a suite of statutory minimum employment entitlements, such as the minimum wage, a right to paid holidays, and the right to raise personal grievances.

The current outcome serves as a stark reminder for businesses of the importance of classifying workers correctly. So how do you tell whether you’re taking on “employees” or “contractors”?

Distinguishing employees from contractors

The Court in the Uber case confirmed that the first step in determining whether a worker is an employee would be to look at the parties’ agreement governing the relationship. However, simply calling a worker a ‘contractor’ in an agreement will not decide the issue. The focus is on the substance of the parties’ mutual rights and obligations to determine the real nature of the relationship. The Court found that various terms of the Uber driver agreements were ‘window-dressing’ which did not reflect the reality of the relationship.

The Court then examined the level of control Uber exercises while a driver is logged into the app and found this to be more consistent with an employment relationship. The greater the control exercised over the worker’s work content, where and when they work, who they can work for and the equipment used, the more likely the worker is an employee.

Another factor the Court considered was whether the drivers were really in business on their own account. When logged into the app, the driver has no opportunity to establish any business goodwill of their own, or to influence the quantity or quality of the work they receive, or the revenue from that work. On this basis, the drivers were held to be supporting Uber’s business rather than running their own.

The greater the control exercised over the worker’s work content, where and when they work, who they can work for and the equipment used, the more likely the worker is an employee.

What’s next?

Hot on the heels of this recent decision, the Government has announced plans to introduce a “gateway test” that businesses can use when responding to a claim that a worker is an employee and not a contractor. This change is likely to be introduced in 2025.

According to the proposed test, the worker will be considered to be a contractor if the following four criteria are met:

• A contractor agreement was in place; and

• The contractor could work for others (including competitors); and

• The contractor could choose their days and hours of work or subcontract the work; and

• The contract could not be terminated if the contractor didn’t accept a new or additional task or engagement.

How can I protect my business?

If your business uses contractors, you may want to re-examine your working relationships and check that contractors are not at risk of being deemed employees, in case of any challenge.

This will help you protect your business and avoid any unintended employment liability including arrears of wages for holiday pay, unpaid PAYE tax, Inland Revenue and Employment Relations Authority penalties.

If you are unsure, seeking advice and resolving potential problems early could save you a lot of money later.

This article is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice.

Saleha Hamid-Drew is in Martelli McKegg’s employment law team. We guarantee personal attention to new clients at competitive rates. You can contact us on (09) 379 7333 or e-mail info@martellimckegg.co.nz.

She’ll be right – or will it?

As Kiwis, we have a pretty laid-back attitude when it comes to most things – including insurance. In fact, as a nation, we are very well known for being under-insured. Builders are no exception to this national trend, and underinsurance can have pretty serious consequences for you and your business.

You often under insure your own home

When it comes to a builder’s own home, there’s often a ‘she’ll be right’ attitude. Many builders think ‘I can build my own home if the insurance won’t cover it.’ Builders often therefore set lower sums-insured on that basis.

But if you suffered a total loss to your family home, would you have the time and energy after such a massive event to rebuild at no cost? For example, would you be willing to stop building other people’s houses – meaning no income to you – to build your own home, or work all day and then on your own home at night? That doesn’t sound like such a great proposition, does it?

If you are looking to reduce costs, rather than under-insuring your home, a better option is to set a higher excess. This will lower your premium and enable you to repair any smaller losses yourself without having to make a claim.

Going too light on contract works

When it comes to building for other people, we often find that contract works insurance can be a bit lacking.

Often sub limits are set too low for things like demolition expenses and professional fees, if anything needed rebuilding.

Problems also arise if a policy doesn’t take account of rising building costs. Almost all construction risk policies have allowances for variation to the contract price due to increases in the cost of labour and materials during construction and during re-construction. There are standard limits though that may not be adequate in today’s economic environment.

For example, a project completed over the space of a year could increase in cost more than the standard variation, due to changing inflationary increases, so the sum insured at the start of the policy might not be enough further down the track when an incident occurs. This can be adjusted as required by talking to your broker.

If you suffered a total loss to your family home, would you have the time and energy after such a massive event to rebuild at no cost?

Lacking in liability cover

Many trades still have $2,000,000 public liability limits, but they need to think about the worst-case scenario loss to third-party property.

As an example, think about what would happen if you caused a fire on-site that damages a neighbouring property and cars –especially if you are working in an expensive area. You could reach that $2,000,000 limit very quickly if the house next door is a multi-million dollar dwelling with a couple of Range Rovers parked in the garages!

For that reason, it is now becoming more common for commercial sites and high-end residential builds to have $5,000,000+ limits.

It may cost you

With many rising business and personal costs right now, it may be tempting to try to save money and keep your premiums low. In fact, it may seem counter intuitive to pay more on your premiums now. The financial implication down the track however may be significantly greater. Are you prepared to take that risk, thinking ‘she’ll be right’?

Reviewed your insurances lately?

If it’s been a while since you reviewed your insurances give us a call on 0800 644 444.. We are happy to have a no obligation chat.

smartbuild.co.nz

NZCB Studio plans now available

The first two of our New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Studio Plans have been finalised and are now available for all NZCB members.

The first two Studio plans are for two- and three-bedroom houses, which can either be built straight from the base design or modified with a range of higher-level specification tiers.

The plans will be produced to Detailed Design (Working Drawings) stage, which makes for quick production of a full set of drawings and specifications that adhere to the requirements of the relevant Building Consent Authority, regardless of where in New Zealand the project is sited.

A set pricing structure for the homeowner ensures the builds are affordable, while also allowing the homeowner to modify the layout at an additional cost to them.

NZCB has worked with leading architects Designgroup Stapleton Elliott (DGSE) to create a set of designs that not only look great at an affordable price point, but are also high performing builds.

“We’re thrilled with the first two Studio designs,” says NZCB Chief Executive Malcolm Fleming.

“They are attractive, affordable, sustainable and, crucially, buildable – and they will be a major tool for NZCB members to use to market themselves to prospective clients.

“It’s been great working with DGSE on the designs, and the research that has been done into their thermal performance is proof that the effort we’ve put into making sure the designs are high-performing has paid off.”

NZCB will send more information to members in early December about pricing structures, and will also post extra information on the Toolshed.

The two- and three-bedroom plans are the first of a broader suite of Studio plans, which we will be developing in 2025. All Studio plans will be free for NZCB members to offer their clients.

Our existing library of Certified Plans will still be available to members who have previously registered for them, but they will no longer be updated to ensure compliance with changing regulations. We will be contacting members who have subscribed to the Certified Plans library with more information about how they can continue to access these plans. We will not be accepting any new subscriptions for Certified Plans.

Know your worth

What’s really covered in your hourly rate? Are you charging enough to cover your overheads? Do you know if your project is going to make any money before you start on-site?

Often, we find that trade contractors and builders are using hourly rates that they may have picked up from a supplier, or a mentor in the industry, but not many know what’s actually covered by this rate.

When you consider that your materials costs, salary costs, and your overheads will be (or should be!) comparable to your competition, the most effective way for a trade business to make a profit is by managing their on-site labour well. When you know exactly how many hours you have to complete a job, and you monitor and stay within those hours throughout the project, you will make money.

The hourly rate forms an integral part of the composite rate that you use when pricing tenders. A composite rate is an all-inclusive unit cost used when pricing tenders, consisting of various key components required for a specific task. This rate includes labour, materials, and equipment, ensuring that all essential expenses directly related to completing the work are covered. It is applied to scheduled items in tender pricing, providing a clear and comprehensive cost structure. However, factors such as profit margins, contingencies, and overheads are calculated separately and sit outside of the composite rate, offering a clear distinction between direct costs and business-related add-ons.

A closer look at the labour component

Labour is made up of the labour constant and the hourly rate.

The labour constant (lc) is a decimal unit used to express time. For example, 30 minutes is 0.50 lc. To fix a metre of timber framing, you might use a labour constant such as 0.20 lc which is 12 minutes. Adjusting and calculating this labour constant against a schedule of quantities will provide total labour hours for the project.

The hourly rate is then multiplied against the labour constant and the scheduled item to provide a total value for labour costs.

To begin calculating an hourly rate, begin with the annual salary that you pay a staff member. Then work through the list below to make sure you’re covering off each item associated directly

with staff employment. If you have multiple staff, simply band their salaries into junior, intermediate and senior, and calculate the hourly rate for each band using the highest salary in each band.

• Overtime: Include an allowance for this if your staff regularly work overtime.

• Non-productive time: This is time spent between tasks. It can add up quickly, especially on larger commercial sites with rigorous health and safety requirements.

• Travel time: This allowance will change from region to region but consider an average over the year that you expect your staff to spend during work time travelling between sites. This can creep up, particularly if you are in maintenance work.

• Wet and lost time: Again this varies from region to region but also trade to trade. Consider the type of work you do and make a reasonable allowance for the year.

• Small tools maintenance: This covers general tools needed to complete daily tasks within your trade but excludes any project or task specific tools as this type of tool would be accounted for elsewhere.

• PPE: Make a general allowance per staff member per year. This is not a place to be stingy but consider that even 2% provides a significant budget to keep your staff safely dressed!

• Annual leave: The allowance for this is 8% to cover the four weeks annual leave required in New Zealand.

• Special leave (sick, bereavement etc): Allow between 2% and 6% for this depending on your expectations for your team.

• KiwiSaver: The allowance for this is a standard 3%, however if you’re looking to provide benefits to retain staff, you may find that increasing this slightly doesn’t have a huge effect on your bottom line and has the potential to increase productivity on-site.

• Jury service: Allow a standard 1% to cover this. This is essentially an insurance policy if you find yourself in a situation where you need to provide temporary staffing to cover an absence for jury service.

• Accident time: Again this is an insurance policy of sorts. This allowance is to cover the downtime on-site immediately following an injury. Perhaps a senior staff member will be driving someone to the doctor or providing first aid. Simply put, it’s hours in the bank.

• ACC premiums: Calculate your ACC for the year and divide it between the number of site staff you employ.

• Public Liability insurance premiums: This is the same formula as for your ACC allowance.

• Supervision allowances: This allowance covers senior staff on-site spending time assisting junior staff on-site. This is not a place to allow for an Operations Manager or Site Foreman.

This would be covered under on-site overheads and is outside your composite rate.

• Any other items associated with current employment legislation: An allowance of 1% should be sufficient to cover any unexpected changes in employment legislation or minor HR issues that may crop up.

If you want a copy of our hourly rate calculator, get in touch at measure@modernconsulting.co.nz. We’d love to hear from you!

Therese Fisher (Quantity Surveyor NZIQS (Affil.) founded Modern Consulting Measure (MCM) in 2019. She and her team are passionate about tradies knowing and protecting their worth. MCM has provided fast, accurate, and stress-free trade measurements to over 4,000 projects in New Zealand and Australia. www.modernconsulting.co.nz.

Tax on Christmas parties and presents

With Christmas around the corner, hosting a staff party is a great way to celebrate the year’s achievements and boost morale – but have you considered the tax implications? Here’s a quick guide on which expenses are claimable under Inland Revenue’s entertainment rules, and what may be subject to Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT).

What is a Fringe Benefit?

It’s a non-cash benefit supplied by or arranged by an employer that has a ‘private’ element attached to it, such as health insurance, gym memberships, motor vehicles available for personal use, and free or discounted goods and services.

Staff Christmas party

The cost of food, drink, and any incidental expenditure – such as equipment hire, music, or other entertainment – is only 50% deductible for income tax and GST purposes. This rule applies whether the party is held on the business premises or off-site.

Christmas lunch/dinner

You are generally allowed to deduct 50% of the cost of taking colleagues out for an end-of-year lunch or dinner.

Cash bonuses

Cash bonuses must be included in the employee’s wages for the week in which they are paid as a discretionary bonus, with the applicable PAYE deducted.

Gifts to staff or clients

You can generally deduct 100% of the cost of gifts (other than food and beverages) for staff or clients. However, any gifts relating to food, beverages, and supermarket vouchers are deemed entertainment and therefore only 50% deductible.

Staff gifts are not subject to FBT if staff gifts and other fringe benefits provided to employees are under:

• (for quarterly filers) $300 per employee for the October to December quarter, and $22,500 in total for the employer for the October to December quarter and preceding three quarters; or

• (for annual or income year filers) $1,200 per employee and $22,500 in total for the employer for the income year.

If these thresholds are breached, FBT will be applicable and payable to Inland Revenue.

For more information or to receive specialist advice, get in touch with us today. Visit findex.co.nz to get started.

The information contained is of a general nature only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the information is suitable for you and your personal circumstances. Before you make any decision in relation to a financial product, you should contact one of our financial advisers.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author/s and do not necessarily reflect the thought or position of Findex.

TRADIE ACADEMY

How to get ready for self-certification

Recently, the Government announced plans to allow self-certification by builders for low-risk work. This is a potential watershed moment for the industry and while there’s a lot that needs clarifying – for example, what counts as low-risk work’ – this signals a significant change for residential builders.

While builders often curse inspections, particularly when they fail them, Council inspectors do act as a safety-net, picking up non-compliant elements.

Assuming these proposals go ahead, more onus will be put on builders to make sure they get things right, first time. That’s why it’s important to have a quality management system (QMS), including process management, documentation, internal audits, and management review. By itself, a QMS does not ensure work is compliant with the Building Code, but it does provides a solid framework that could include regulatory compliance.

Here are some of the internal systems and processes you will probably need to ensure effective self-certification:

Quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) processes

• Documented inspection and testing protocols: Specific, step-by-step procedures for inspections and tests at various stages of construction.

• Checklists and approval forms: Comprehensive checklists tailored to different types of work to help employees verify compliance before moving to the next stage.

• Final verification audits: Before certifying completion, conduct final, (and possibly independent) audits to ensure all requirements have been met.

Internal training and certification programs

• Building Code training: Provide ongoing training on Building Code updates and detailed aspects of compliance.

• Role-specific certifications: Train and certify staff for specific tasks, ensuring they understand the compliance requirements relevant to their roles.

Record-keeping and documentation management system

• Project documentation system: Implement a structured document management system that organises consents, inspection records, test results, and certification documents.

• Digital sign-offs: Adopt a digital sign-off system that timestamps and logs each step of the self-certification process, making records easily retrievable for audits or future inspections.

• Ongoing compliance monitoring: Establish systems to track project compliance through automated reminders, checklists, and centralised records.

Internal audit and compliance review procedures

• Regular internal audits: Schedule internal audits on a periodic basis to review adherence to self-certification protocols and identify potential compliance gaps.

• Continuous improvement programmes: Analyse audit results to improve processes and implement corrective actions to address any areas of concern.

Risk management and liability insurance

• Enhanced liability coverage: Assess the need for additional liability insurance (if available) to cover potential claims arising from self-certification.

• Risk assessment protocols: Develop a risk assessment framework to evaluate projects’ potential compliance risks and implement measures to mitigate these risks.

• Errors and omissions insurance: Since self-certification increases liability, consider additional insurance policies to protect against legal exposure in case of non-compliance.

Communication and reporting systems

• Stakeholder communication plans: Keep communication lines open with local or government authorities, clients, and subcontractors about compliance progress.

• Non-compliance reporting: Implement a system for immediate reporting and tracking of any discovered noncompliance issues, with processes to rectify issues promptly.

Data management and analytics

• Integration with project management software: Ensure project management software, if used, includes compliance and QA/QC tracking capabilities to simplify monitoring.

• Performance benchmarking: Develop metrics for compliance performance and benchmark against past projects to assess improvements or areas for further training.

This list of systems and processes looks long but will need to be addressed once the regulatory landscape becomes clearer in 2025. If you want to start preparing for self-certification, contact me at andy@tradescoach.co.nz to review your quality control processes.

Andy Burrows Director of The Trades Coach and NZCB National Partner (Starter). I encourage you to take advantage of a free business strategy review session to see how we can improve your business performance. Call Andy today on 027 688 6721 or email andy@tradescoach.co.nz.

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail

The residential construction industry in New Zealand has faced several challenges recently, with fluctuating material costs, labour shortages, and economic uncertainties testing the sector’s resilience.

Looking forward to 2025, construction business leaders need to approach the year with clear, actionable plans if they want to succeed. A structured approach that incorporates annual, quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily planning – with a strong focus on sales and building a pipeline filled with qualified prospects –will be critical to thriving in this environment.

Here’s a strategic planning guide to help you get started:

1. Develop a 12-month plan

Start by creating a 12-month plan outlining key objectives, sales targets, and business milestones. Review the previous year to assess what worked and what didn’t, factoring in staffing, finances, market trends, and regulations.

Set clear goals, such as:

• Revenue targets and contracts to win.

• Client acquisition and relationship-building strategies with target market clients.

• Exploring new opportunities, e.g. sustainable building practices.

• Developing key partnerships with suppliers and subcontractors.

• Strategic hiring or capacity optimisation within your teams.

2. Quarterly checkpoints for focus

Once you’ve set yearly objectives, break them down into quarterly goals. This approach allows you to stay flexible and adjust based on your progress. Quarterly planning lets you monitor your pipeline and fine-tune your strategies.

Quarterly reviews should include:

• Evaluating the status of your sales pipeline and refining prospecting efforts.

• Tracking financial health and cash flow.

• Reviewing project timelines and ensuring there are no delays.

• Identifying potential challenges such as material shortages or changes in market demand, and adjusting your plans accordingly.

3. Monthly plans for practical management

Monthly planning breaks quarterly goals into specific, actionable steps. This is where you implement your sales strategies by identifying leads and nurturing relationships. The residential construction market is fast-moving, and monthly reviews will allow you to stay agile, reacting quickly to changes.

Focus on:

• Identifying the deals that need closing and opportunities that require attention.

• Confirming project timelines and adjusting where necessary.

• Managing inventory and ordering supplies to avoid delays.

• Tracking progress on major milestones and identifying any red flags.

4. Weekly planning for efficiency

Weekly planning ensures momentum. Start the week with a meeting to review ongoing projects, identify priorities, assign tasks, and identify bottlenecks.

Key weekly goals include:

• Progressing key phases of construction on current projects.

• Holding meetings with clients to review progress or make adjustments.

• Addressing any potential bottlenecks or issues before they escalate.

• Reviewing sales pipeline health and focusing efforts on leads that are close to closing.

Build resilience, stay agile, and position your business for growth”

5. Daily focus for maximum productivity

Starting each day with a clear focus will drive your productivity and ensure your team is always working towards the highest priorities.

This may include:

• Following up on critical sales leads or meeting with potential clients.

• Reviewing project timelines and ensuring no deadlines are at risk.

• Checking in with team members on-site to ensure projects are progressing smoothly.

6. Reflect and improve

Summary: build resilience, stay agile, and position your business for growth

To have a successful 2025 in New Zealand’s residential construction industry, you must combine structured planning with a strong focus on sales and pipeline growth. By implementing yearly, quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily plans – and regularly reflecting on your progress – you can build resilience, stay agile, and position your business for sustainable growth in a challenging market.

Need help?

Contact us for a free consultation to see how we can help with strategic planning. To book a 30-minute consultation session visit www.excc.co.nz/executive-coach-booking

Regular reflection is vital for continuous improvement. At the end of each week or month, review what worked and what didn’t. Adjust your strategies as needed to stay agile and responsive to market changes.

Jason Dinan, Executive Coaching & Consultation. With three decades of leadership experience working in 154 cities in 27 countries, I specialise in growing organisations through developing peak-performance leaders, teams and strategy. I was the project head for a leading homebuilder in New Zealand, Australia and North America, helping grow their annual sales from 47% to 311%.

Health and safety management designed for small businesses

Site security over the holidays

Christmas is almost upon us, and we’re all eager to have a bit of a rest, recharge, and spend quality time with our families.

But with the pressure on to complete jobs before the Christmas shutdown, it’s also tempting to take shortcuts, which is why we see a spike in workplace incidents in the last two months of the year. Common factors can include time pressure, working in the heat, and fatigue. We all must keep the health, safety, and well-being of workers first, especially at this time of year.

It is also important to make sure your site is secure over the Christmas shutdown, so you don’t have any unwanted interruptions during your holidays or return to a nasty surprise on your first day back.

Unsecured areas could be hazardous to members of the public, especially children. Children are unaware of the dangers so keeping them out and away from harm is key.

Being safe and secure is more than just locking the gates. Ask yourself the following questions:

Are dangerous areas fenced off from the public, and the boundary secure?

Make sure the area is securely fenced and all entrances are locked. Ensure your fencing is a sufficient height – at least 2m.

Is clear signage present to warn people of danger?

Make sure your Hazard Board is up to date listing the current hazards and your contact details are clearly visible in case something does happen.

Have steps been taken to prevent any unauthorised access, e.g. are all ladders removed or their rungs boarded so they can’t be used?

Remove any temptation to access hazardous areas. Where practical, remove all ladders, equipment and machinery from the site, including scaffolding and excavation ladders, or block access.

Are excavations and openings securely covered, fenced off, or backfilled?

Cover and fence off any excavations to prevent potential falls. Where practical, backfilling excavations are recommended.

Is all plant immobilised to prevent unauthorised use?

If you are unable to remove your vehicles or plant from the area, make sure it is secure, preferably out of sight, with the keys removed.

Are materials safely stacked and secured?

Ensure materials are safely stacked and stored so they can’t topple or be knocked over.

Are all flammable or dangerous substances locked away in secure storage places?

Lock up your hazardous substances in secure storage appropriate for the type of substances being stored. Where possible remove hazardous substances from the site.

Are temporary structures stable and able to withstand bad weather conditions?

Check any temporary structures such as scaffolding and barriers to ensure they are secure and stable, taking into consideration the changing weather.

Has the mains power been switched off?

Make sure wherever possible, temporary or mains power supply and switchboards are switched off and locked out.

Do unwanted materials and waste need to be removed?

A quick clean-up can make a big difference. Make sure you remove all waste and empty skip bins.

Doing a Site Review on the HazardCo app on the last day before you lock up will ensure you haven’t missed anything. It’s also a good idea to do another Site Review on your first day back to make sure you pick any additional hazards that may have occurred while away.

Although not recommended, if you do have lone workers on-site over the Christmas break, ensure you have a lone worker policy in place. Make sure you set up regular check-ins with the worker, have a first aid kit on hand and a trained first-aider on call, and emphasise they shouldn’t carry out any high-risk work alone. In higher risk areas you may want to consider organising security to do regular patrols.

To help make sure everything has been done we have created a Free Site Security checklist you can download via the QR code.

Taking the time to prepare for the Christmas shutdown can help to make sure you get to spend your holiday uninterrupted with your family and friends.

Hidden hazard for outdoor workers

When it comes to safety on the job site, there are many hazards to be aware of. Harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, while not immediately obvious, are one of the biggest risks for outdoor workers

Worksafe has identified that UV from the sun is the second most common carcinogen in workplaces in Aotearoa. People who work outside receive up to 10 times more UV radiation exposure than indoor workers, putting them at increased risk of developing some skin cancers.

Employers have a duty of care to not put workers at risk under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) 2015. If UV radiation is identified as a potential hazard, employers must take steps to minimise the risk, as far as is reasonably practicable.

Here are some straightforward ways to reduce your workers’ exposure to UV radiation, as well as protecting them from heat exhaustion.

Provide shade

Allow workers to do tasks under trees or other shaded areas, or put up temporary shade structures like an outdoor gazebo. Remind staff to take breaks in the shade whenever possible. This is one of the most effective ways to reduce overall UV exposure. Good quality shade can reduce UV radiation by more than 75%.

Provide SunSmart personal protective equipment

Depending on the requirements of your industry, sun-protective clothing could include:

• a long-sleeved, collared shirt, ideally in a tight-weaved, dark fabric;

• a wide-brimmed hat or helmet with a peak and neck guard (legionnaire’s flap);

• close-fitting, wrap-around sunglasses that meet safety and sun protection standards (check the label).

People who work outside receive up to 10 times more UV radiation exposure than indoor workers.

Provide sunscreen

Ensure easy access to a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF30+. Ensure sunscreen is within its expiry date and not stored anywhere too hot, like a car glovebox. Provide a cooler bag with an icepack for transport in cars. Check for rules around tax deductibility.

Remind

employees to be SunSmart

Regularly talk to your employees about being safe in the sun when working outdoors, including the application and re-application of sunscreen every two hours.

Encourage skin checks for early detection of skin cancers

Workers find it hard to take time off, so be a proactive boss and talk to staff about how to make it work for you and your employees to get their skin checked by a doctor. Encourage your employees to undertake regular self-checks by talking about it and providing information.

Useful resources can be found at www.sunsmart.org.nz/skincancer/check-your-skin.

Limit time working outside

If possible, move tasks inside or adjust work times to when UV radiation levels are lower, such as early morning or late afternoon.

NIWA offers a great app for checking UV levels, which you can download from www.niwa.co.nz/atmosphere/uv-and-ozone/ uvi-smartphone-apps.

Need more information?

A sample sun protection policy for your workplace is available to download at www.cancer.org.nz/assets/Downloads/SunSmart. You can also find more information and resources at www.sunsmart.org.nz or www.cancer.org.nz.

The Cancer Society of New Zealand is the country’s leading organisation dedicated to reducing the incidence of cancer and ensuring the best cancer care for New Zealanders. We are committed to working with communities and decision makers by providing leadership and advocacy in cancer control, with core services in information and support, research and health promotion. www.cancer.org.nz

We’ve got you covered

Workplace rehabilitation that works

Organisations across Aotearoa are benefiting from Habit Health’s workplace rehabilitation programmes.

Whether you are injured yourself or supporting an injured team member, workplace rehabilitation is fully funded by ACC for eligible injuries.

Our workplace rehabilitation support – also known as vocational rehabilitation – is designed to get injured staff back to work safely and quickly. Whether you are injured yourself or supporting an injured team member, workplace rehabilitation is fully funded by ACC for eligible injuries. We work with injured team members, their GP and employers to navigate the ACC system and rehabilitation process, with the ultimate goal of getting employees back to their functional best.

Regardless of the nature of the injury, getting back to full-time work can be daunting, especially for those whose jobs rely on physical labour. Involving employees in their own recovery process and getting started early, leads to better outcomes and a stronger level of engagement. At Habit Health, our vocational rehabilitation team takes time to understand the needs of the injured employee and their goals. We establish a programme of care that involves the right healthcare professionals and specialists.

We know it’s important to facilitate open and supportive communication with the injured team member and employer, ensuring the team member feels safe to return to work, and that they are comfortable discussing any ongoing concerns or needs related to their injury and recovery. Some injuries may leave an individual unable to return to their pre-injury role. We can support these people to get back to work in another capacity, identifying transferable skills, opportunities to learn new skills and supporting them along their search for a different role.

Our goal is to help injured team members get back to work safely and quickly, ensuring they feel valued through the process.

By achieving this, we improve organisation staff retention, as staff are proven to be more likely to stay with an organisation that supports them through their recovery.¬

Wellington based construction company LT McGuinness have seen first-hand the benefits of having a workplace rehabilitation programme in place.

“By identifying health concerns early, before they become more serious, the programme has helped our team stay at work or return sooner without needing long periods off. And when time away is needed, it’s typically shorter than it used to be,” says Marianne Brooking – Human Resources Manager, LT McGuinness.

Taking charge of workplace rehabilitation not only supports your team and their recovery but also benefits your organisation through enhanced productivity, reduced costs, and a positive work culture.

How do I find out more?

NZCB members can refer directly to us, without needing to request further assistance from ACC.

If you think Habit Health’s vocational rehabilitation services could benefit your workplace, visit www.habit.health/rehab-for-work to learn more.

Upgrade

Your Everyday with

Haier’s Kitchen Package

From daily meals to special occasions, Haier appliances are designed with smart technologies that save you time and preserve the goodness in your food. An inspired choice for modern living.

our range at haier.co.nz

Oven, 60cm, 14 Function, Self-cleaning with Air Fry Wi-Fi Enabled HWO60S14TPB2

Reframe the game – the power of mindset

Anxiety has been a constant part of my life since 2017, when I began experiencing daily panic attacks on my work commute. At first, I tried pushing through, but eventually, it became too much for me.

What started as anxiety quickly spiralled into a combination of both anxiety and depression. And then, as if I wasn’t already struggling enough, I nosedived into substance use. This trifecta led me down a dark path involving heavy medication, culminating in a suicide attempt. Somehow I survived, and I’m here to write about it today. I’m not entirely sure how or why, but I’m deeply grateful to still be around.

Over the past few years, anxiety has become a more widely discussed topic. You might have heard about it, experienced it, taken medication for it, or felt it in other ways through people close to you. For a long time, I was living it.

Anxiety can show up in small, familiar ways, like the nervous butterflies you feel before public speaking, or the sweaty palms when you’re put on the spot. It can also manifest in far more severe symptoms – a racing heart, shallow breathing, and an overwhelming sense that something catastrophic is about to happen. These were the symptoms I experienced regularly, and when I worried about them, they only got worse.

During a Mental Health First Aid workshop I was facilitating, I learned about symptom recognition and ways to mitigate the impact. It was a revelation – knowledge is power. I had been consistently describing my experience as a “battle” with depression or “fighting” anxiety, and for a long time, that’s how it felt – like a constant war between my mind and body, with no breaks, not even in the dead of night.

Anxiety can show up in small, familiar ways, like the nervous butterflies you feel before public speaking, or the sweaty palms when you’re put on the spot.

On the surface, phrases like “battling anxiety” might seem noble or inspiring. But in reality, this mindset made things worse for me. It reinforced the idea that I was trapped in a never-ending fight. The more I fought, the deeper my struggle became. It entrenched the negative view I had of myself, and no matter how hard I tried, it felt like I couldn’t win. The next day, it would all start again, no matter what I had done the day before.

Eventually, I realised that constantly fighting myself was no way to live. I did have a choice though, and while my past decisions may not have been ideal, a last-minute revelation gave me another chance to walk a different, (albeit much harder) path. I’m still walking that path today.

Wellbeing Gauge

REFRAMING PERSPECTIVE WORRIED

These days, I prefer to talk about living with anxiety and depression rather than fighting them. Quick disclaimer: I’m going to use the word “reframe” a lot. Reframing means viewing something from a new perspective, and though it sounds simple, it has been transformative for me. Reframing didn’t come easily or on its own – I’ve also needed counselling, coaching, lifestyle changes, and a new job – but now, I say, “I live with anxiety and depression.”

This shift isn’t just about semantics; it’s a conscious decision to accept these parts of myself instead of trying to get rid of them, which, trust me, I’ve tried. I’ve tried ignoring them, medicating them away with prescription and recreational substances (often both at the same time), and even attempted to end my life to escape them.

After working with psychologists, a psychiatrist, stress doctors, and a mindset coach, I came to accept that anxiety and depression are part of me. Rather than seeing them as enemies, I now use them as internal indicators – like a wellbeing gauge. For example, anxiety has me awake by 5 am most mornings. Sometimes it’s 4 am. I used to get angry about it, but the anger wasn’t useful. Reframing helps me accept my reality. I’m awake; I’m not going back to sleep, so I might as well get up and do something positive – gym, running, hot yoga, swimming – anything physically demanding to help clear my head and offload some of that stress hormone, cortisol. This leaves me more balanced and focused for the day ahead.

Reframing has shown me that anxiety isn’t something to battle or fear. Physiologically, anxiety is a defence mechanism designed to keep us safe, and in that sense, it’s a good thing. I’ve come to realise that these sensations won’t kill me; they’re just my body’s way of saying, “Pay attention.”

Now, when my heart starts racing, I remind myself it’s just a normal fight-or-flight response. If I breathe through it, I’ll be fine. And when I feel anxious, it’s often because I care deeply about the situation. Understanding this has helped me handle anxiety differently and more effectively.

Depression, on the other hand, is harder to reframe, especially because recognising the signs can be tricky. When I begin withdrawing or neglecting myself, I’ve learned that’s my cue to pause and reset. Fatigue is often the first sign of depression creeping in, and now I see it as my body’s way of telling me to stop and take a breath.

In both cases, reframing has been a powerful tool. It hasn’t cured me, but it helps me live with anxiety and depression rather than constantly battling them. It’s like reaching a truce – it allows me to acknowledge the challenge without letting it define me.

Reframing has shown me that anxiety isn’t something to battle or fear. Physiologically, anxiety is a defence mechanism designed to keep us safe.

Is it easy? No. Do I slip back into old patterns of thinking sometimes? Absolutely. But I’m working with it, and that has made all the difference.

Anxiety is uncomfortable by design; it’s meant to keep us alive. But by changing my perspective and working with it rather than against it, I’ve created a more harmonious existence. The symptoms haven’t disappeared, but by reframing my response, I’ve made life easier to live – and that has changed everything.

Dan Oatridge, HumanEx . Dan is a lived experience contributor. He worked with Lifeline as their National Trainer and now works as a Mental Health First Aid Instructor with HumanEx. Dan’s goal is to have at least one Mental Health First Aider in every family across Aotearoa.

Finding time to keep well

Live Well Build Well is all about making your wellbeing a priority so you can live your best life, and manage the ups and downs of residential construction more easily.

Research shows small changes in how we think and what we do to keep well and be happy can bring huge benefits for our mental health.

The most important part of staying mentally fit is to make your own wellbeing a priority, no matter how busy the week gets. Make time for activities that help you de-stress and ‘recharge your batteries’. Investing regularly in your ‘wellbeing bank account’ means you’ll have something to draw on when times are tough.

But finding the time to do these things can be a real challenge. One approach we recommend is applying the 8-7-6-3 rule to make the most of each day.

Use

the 8-7-6-3 rule to plan your day

Live Well Build Well wellbeing expert Prof Grant Schofield of AUT explains how it works.

“There are 24 hours in a day, so it’s up to each of us to take advantage of the time we’ve got. I use the 8-7-6-3 rule to guide my life, because I think it allows you to think more productively about your day, and also get more out of life.

“First, allow eight hours for sleep. All the evidence shows that’s what we need to keep well.

“Second, spend seven hours on focused work. If you do that on your workdays, you’re going to have an incredibly productive life and you’ll be good at what you do.

“Next, allow six hours for all the Cs – children, chores, cooking, commuting. There’s six hours available during the day to accomplish all those things, so use that time wisely and stick to it.

Remember, 8 hours sleep, 7 hours focused work, 6 hours chilling, cooking, commuting, children, or whatever else you can think of, still means there’s 3 hours left for you.

“That means there’s still three hours left in the day. So, what are you going to do with that time? Well, I allocate mine to maintaining my health and mental fitness.

“Three hours gives me enough time to do some exercise, then maybe some reading and thinking, or listening to some podcasts around things that might benefit my health, or other activities that make me happy and help me recharge.

The 8-7-6-3 rule is a simple planning tool that allows you to make the most of each day and get more out life.”

What other builders and tradies are doing

“Mental health is super important and I think the trades are high pressure, high stress jobs.

To achieve a good balance means keeping a bit of a personal inventory. Making sure you’re sticking to the fundamentals like good food and sleep and having good support around you.

Physical exercise is key for me. If I can’t make it to the gym, I just go for a long walk. One of my work-ons at the moment is to really put things down at the end of the day and create that space for my personal life and shift that energy over when I’m at home.”

Ben Hickling, associate design and planning manager

Expert insight

“I use the 8-7-6-3 rule to guide my life, because I think it allows you to think more productively about your day, and also get more out of life.“

Prof Grant Schofield of AUT is LWBW’s wellbeing expert.

Want to know more?

To find out more, visit www.livewellbuildwell.com and follow Live Well Build Well on socials.

goal is to increase mental and physical wellbeing across the residential construction sector. We are a community where tradies lead the conversation of what wellbeing means to them and share their own personal stories on how they overcame tough times to inspire and educate their peers. www.live-well-build-well.com

Waihanga Ora Live Well Build Well. Our

Tauranga tees off for men’s mental health

TAURANGA DISTRICTS

It was a fantastic day at the scenic Renner Golf Park for New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Tauranga Districts, as NZCB members and regional partners alike hit the fairways, greens and a fair bit of rough to support men’s mental health.

The event was not just about golf; it was about raising muchneeded awareness and funds for Mates in Construction, an organization dedicated to promoting mental well-being in the construction sector. We are thrilled to announce that, through the generosity of all involved, we raised an incredible $5,000 for Mates in Construction.

The day saw 18 teams of four players competing on the 9-hole course, along with five mini-putt teams for those opting for a more casual experience.

Each hole featured activities and prizes, generously provided by our sponsors, who went above and beyond to make the event exciting at every turn. From fun challenges to creative games, the sponsors ensured there was never a dull moment on the course. Players were treated to surprises at every hole, making the competition both engaging and entertaining.

In addition to the activities, participants enjoyed drinks and a BBQ, providing the perfect way to relax and refuel after navigating the course.

Thank you to all our generous sponsors.

A special highlight of the day was the main prize, generously donated by Mount ITM. The winning team of four all received a beautifully framed T-shirt featuring the Mates in Construction logo and the year of the event – a symbolic and cherished keepsake. Alongside this, the team also each took home a golf award, a meat pack, and an array of other exciting prizes.

Runners-up won an array of prizes from gift vouchers to Countdown, Golf 360, tools, jackets, nail guns, chilly bins filled with goodies, and much more. The variety of prizes made the event even more thrilling for everyone involved. A big congratulations to everyone who participated in both golf and mini putt.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors for their incredible contributions. Your involvement, from sponsoring holes to providing fantastic prizes, truly made this day unforgettable and helped ensure its success.

We are incredibly proud of the support shown by everyone involved and the positive impact we made together. The funds raised will help Mates in Construction continue their crucial work, ensuring that those in the construction industry receive the mental health support they need.

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce that we plan to make this an annual event. We are already gearing up for next year’s golf day, scheduled for September 2025, and can’t wait to build on the momentum of this year’s success. Together, we will continue to make a difference, one swing at a time.

Mike Way NZCB President Tauranga Districts

Another family fun day at the Auckland Zoo

Auckland turned on some fantastic weather for the Auckland region’s 2024 Family Fun Day, with nearly 300 members and their families coming along to Auckland Zoo on 21 September.

The Auckland Committee were there early to welcome our guests, with the kids receiving a voucher to claim a treat at the Zoo cafe during the day. While everyone was free to roam and enjoy the zoo as they saw fit, it was great to be able to catch up with some of our members in a casual setting, meet their families and find out how they are doing.

It’s been a tough couple of years for a lot of our members, and we are not yet out of the woods. These relaxing and rewarding days off the tools are important. The continued positive response from our Auckland members to these Family Fun Days give us confidence that this family-oriented day is just what they are after.

We hope everyone had a great time and we look forward to seeing more members again at the 2025 Family Fun Day.

Paul Webster-Young NZCB President Auckland

Ready for the NZCB Apprentice Challenge 2025?

Calling all apprentices!

The New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Challenge is coming back again for 2025 but this time, with a twist.

Next year, we want to get you building projects that will make a real impact for your communities. But rather than come up with the project ourselves, we’re bringing in some major creative flair in the form of architecture and design students to create the brief for you. We’ll make sure the project is buildable in the time you have available but get ready for your building skills to be pushed to the limit!

We’ll have more info in the months to come.

Regional Competitions

This is your chance to show what you’ve got. You’ll get the winning design concept from our design students one month before the big day, but here’s the twist – you’ll be working with your community to choose the perfect community need for your build.

When competition day arrives, you’ll not only be showcasing your skills but making a difference right where you live.

National Finals

For those who make it through the regional competition, you’ll be heading to the national stage at the NZCB Conference in Hamilton (6–7 June), to present your builds and explain how your project has helped your community. This is your chance to prove that you’re not just building a project – you’re building a legacy.

Are you ready to make your mark? Join us for the NZCB Apprentice Challenge 2025 and show New Zealand what you’re made of!

Want to know more?

If your interested in finding out more get in touch with me today at events@nzcb.nz or visit www.apprenticechallenge.nz

Hintz NZCB Education and Events Manager

Marcia

Building the Future

NZCB CONFERENCE 2025

6-7 June 2025

Claudelands, Hamilton

Passing the baton takes time and trust

In the construction industry, where relationships and hands-on experience form the backbone of success, it takes a lot to hand over the reins to someone else.

For Geordie Grieve, founder of GG Builders, letting his long-time employee Rory Crump take the helm took a lot of planning over many years, but has been a huge success. In Geordie’s view, skill, and partnership were crucial for a smooth transition.

Foundations of a solid partnership

Geordie initially planted the seeds for succession more than a decade ago by renaming the company with his initials rather than having his full name front and centre.

“I realised I’d built up a good reputation, and I didn’t want to just walk away and close it down,” Geordie recalled. “I didn’t know how I would do that, but many years ago I changed the business name so it could stand apart from me and be taken over by somebody else.”

But changing the business name was only the first step; the real question was who he could trust to take the reins. Geordie admits that the decision to choose Rory as his successor wasn’t instantaneous, and it was built on years of mutual trust and respect.

“When Rory first started with me as an 18-year-old, I thought he was in the wrong job. When I said that to him, he replied that he always wanted to be a builder and asked what he could do to make it happen.”

Rory’s determination to improve his skills, combined with Geordie’s mentorship, gradually led them to a point where passing the baton became a natural progression.

The path to leadership

For Rory, the opportunity to lead GG Builders is both an honour and a challenge.

“At first, I felt a mix of excitement and anxiety about taking over the business,” he said. “There was a lot to consider, especially with the strong reputation that Geordie had built. But I’m grateful for the trust he’s shown in me.”

Geordie has worked closely with Rory to prepare him for this responsibility, guiding him through both technical and leadership aspects of running the business.

“We’ve had a number of meetings to discuss how to set up and run a business,” Geordie said. This hands-on mentorship has given Rory the skills needed to succeed, from organising day-to-day operations to managing larger projects.

“Gradually progressing Rory to more of a Project Manager role – organising more and more of the day-to-day running of a job, like scheduling inspections and material delivery – has been key,” Geordie added.

As Rory prepares to lead the company into the future, he reflects on the invaluable lessons he’s learned from Geordie. “Having worked alongside Geordie for almost 20 years, I’ve learned the value of integrity, quality craftsmanship, and fostering strong relationships with clients. My goal is to uphold these values while bringing my own vision to the business.”

The role of partners in transition

The success of this transition is not just the result of professional mentoring – it’s also a family affair.

Both Geordie and Rory acknowledge the critical role their wives play in supporting the business. Geordie’s wife, Kim, has been instrumental in managing the office, and now, she is guiding Rory’s wife, Angelique (Ang), in the back-office processes. “My office manager [my wife] is helping Rory’s wife, Angelique, with all backoffice stuff,” Geordie explained.

For Rory, having Ang’s involvement has been a key factor in the transition.

“There’s definitely pressure to uphold the high standards Geordie set while also making my own mark on the company,” Rory said. “Fortunately, both Geordie and Kim have guided me and Ang through the transition, making the process much smoother.”

Left to right: Rory and Geordie

Looking to the future

With the foundation of trust and mentorship that Geordie has laid, Rory is ready to bring his own style to the leadership of GG Builders. His vision includes not only preserving the high standards of craftsmanship and client relationships but also embracing new technology to modernise the business.

The opportunity to lead GG Builders is both an honour and a challenge.

“My vision is to lead the company into a more tech-driven future while preserving the craftsmanship and integrity that Geordie has established,” Rory said.

Geordie’s parting advice to other business owners considering a similar succession?

“Plan it as early as possible. It can be a slow process, especially if your employee doesn’t know how to run a business to begin with. We think we’re still only in the initial stages now, so we know we’ll have to continue to support and help Rory and Ang for some time yet.

“But we’re committed to helping them take over our good solid construction business and make it theirs.”

NZCB Education and Events Manager

Marcia Hintz

Rory’s family from left to right: Luna, Rory, Marlow and Angelique

From classrooms to construction

One Tree Hill College Trades Academy students are giving an old state house a new lease of life and in doing so, are building invaluable skills for careers in construction and a healthy dry home for a deserving Kiwi family.

The 1970s house was purchased for one dollar thanks to a groundbreaking new partnership between the College and Kāinga Ora. Since being dropped onto the school grounds in May, 70 Year 12 and Year 13 students have developed the skills to transform the home, from installing insulation and putting up the GIB® plasterboard, to laying floors, building decks and painting.

Not only is One Tree Hill College the first school in the country to undertake such a project, but thanks to the tenacity and determination of Trades Academy Head Charlotte McKeon, it will also be the first Kāinga Ora property to ever receive New Zealand Green Building Council Homestar Level 7 accreditation.

“We were originally just going to do a small renovation but once we decided to go for Homestar 7, the project grew another life,” says Charlotte.

“Our trades students have gone from building furniture and planter boxes to working on large scale real stuff. They’ve been involved in every stage of the process, and because we’ve been renovating to Homestar Level 7 and V5 standards, they’ve learned all about the importance of thermal performance and efficiency. They have been carrying out work that has exceeded the building code, helping set a new benchmark for retrofitted homes.”

This invaluable hands-on experience will stand students in good stead for the future, giving them a leading edge as they launch their construction careers, and preparing them for evolving industry demands.

“It’s been so good – you couldn’t make this up! These students are training to be apprentices on an actual home; we now have a warm dry house for a first time home buyer; and it’s an initiative that has brought the whole community together, with sponsors like Winstone Wallboards, Kāinga Ora and BCITO. Everyone is pulling together to create the best apprentices we can,” says Charlotte.

When she is not inspiring students at One Tree Hill College, you’ll find Charlotte at the University of Auckland working towards her Architecture degree, so she can make life better for even more New Zealanders.

“We should all be able to live in warm dry houses. If we all have a healthy home we feel better when we wake up; we do better at work; our kids do better at school; we are automatically all doing better.”

The lucky family who buys this home when it’s auctioned off in December will certainly wake up feeling good. It has a full ventilation system, insulation in the walls, roof and under floors, and high-spec windows and doors, custom-made by former One Tree Hill College students who are now completing glazing apprenticeships at Woodsglass.

The house has a Leo Smart Panel (due to launch in New Zealand in February 2025 and designed to reduce energy consumption by a minimum 10%). In addition, the house has been airsealed with AeroBarrier. The AeroBarrier system automatically seeks out all the hidden gaps and cracks in the building envelope and seals them, creating optimum thermal efficiency and moisture management.

“Used together, GIB® plasterboard and AeroBarrier give you a tight thermal envelope, like a big puffer jacket on your house, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer.”

Before starting the renovation, the rundown three-bedroom, onebathroom home was blowing a whopping 19 air changes per hour, but once completed it will blow just three air changes an hour, making it infinitely easier and cheaper to heat, and a whole lot more enjoyable to live in.

Winstone Wallboards. Winstone Wallboards are

Coverage like never before for New Zealand

Satellite to Mobile TXT launching soon. Voice and basic data to follow.

We’re taking coverage further than ever before, with one giant leap towards the most advanced and safest network in the country. Pairing SpaceX’s revolutionary satellite constellation with our award-winning mobile network means our place, our businesses and our playground, will be even safer.

One NZ and SpaceX partnership

One NZ has collaborated with SpaceX to leverage the world’s most advanced constellation of satellites. As the only operator with the ability to launch their own satellites into orbit, SpaceX has a unique advantage allowing them to continually deliver innovative new technology at speed.

Coverage and safety

Currently around 40% of New Zealand has no mobile coverage. One NZ is about to change this making New Zealand safer. One NZ Satellite to Mobile TXT launching soon. Voice and basic data to follow.

New generation satellites

SpaceX’s constellation of Starlink satellites are Low Earth Orbit satellites and have larger antenna arrays to allow them to communicate.

Best Mobile Network

One NZ are proud to be awarded the best mobile network in Aotearoa in 2022, 2023 and again in 2024, independently tested by global leader in mobile benchmarking, umlaut, part of Accenture.

Adjusting to the Kiwi workplace

A new BCITO English Language programme is making life on the construction site a whole lot easier for Auckland apprentice Wei Han.

Delivered by Education Unlimited, the programme offers nonnative English speaking BCITO apprentices up to 20 hours of free English tuition and, according to Wei, it has been a game changer.

“I’ve been in New Zealand for eight years, and building for four, but English is still a barrier for me,” says Wei.

“When I go to commercial sites, a lot of people have different backgrounds and come from different places, and sometimes it is very difficult for us to understand each other completely.

“My reading and writing are okay but it’s the talking and listening that I struggle most with. Kiwis speak very fast and sometimes use language I’m not familiar with so small-talk is not easy. Sometimes I just put a silly smile on my face and pretend I know what my co-workers are saying but I actually haven’t understood a thing!”

The BCITO 1:1 Apprentice Support English Language Programme kicked off in May, and as soon as Wei found out about it, he jumped at the chance to enrol. So far, he has received 12 hours of targeted English language tuition from Education Unlimited tutor Paul Padfield, a former lecturer in landscape construction and horticulture at MIT. The tuition combines online sessions and Saturday morning in-person meet-ups, and has a strong focus on industry jargon and workplace banter.

“This programme has been a very good chance for me to learn more about New Zealand and the building industry, and also to make new friends. The course is very good. Paul is a great tutor and gives us lots of different resources. Already I’ve noticed a big improvement in my speaking and comprehension, and I feel so much more confident on the worksite now. I can understand and explain things more clearly, and I can even make a few jokes!”

Originally from Inner Mongolia, Wei has Bachelor degrees in Japanese and mechanical engineering, and a postgraduate diploma in business. Although he has worked as an engineer and also in marketing, he believes carpentry is where his heart really lies.

“When I first came to New Zealand I studied business and while I was studying, I worked part-time in construction. I really enjoyed the work, especially the sense of satisfaction after completing something, so I decided to become a carpenter instead of pursuing a career in business. I’ve been in the industry for about four years now, but I only started my BCITO apprenticeship in May last year.”

With a full-time job at Wrapmaster Construction Ltd – and a newborn baby – life is pretty busy, but Wei reckons this BCITO funded language programme is well worth making time for.

When I first came to New Zealand I studied business and while I was studying, I worked part-time in construction.

“When you work very hard and have a baby you don’t have a lot of time to study English, but Paul is always there to help and support me. I encourage all non-native English-speaking apprentices to take advantage of this programme. If you have enough time and want to improve your English, this is the course for you!”

Resources and support systems

BCITO has the resources and support systems in place to ensure everyone can succeed in a BCITO apprenticeship. To learn more, head to www.bcito.org.nz.

BCITO Through on-the-job training and regular guidance, BCITO is building a skilled workforce in which talented people can excel. Alongside our industry employers, we create futures for dedicated tradies. We help them develop successful careers and become valuable contributors in New Zealand’s building and construction industry. We honour and uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi in all we do.

BCITO Apprentice Wei Han

Does the holiday season tie you up in knots?

Getting through Xmas and the holiday season can be a little discombobulating.

Last minute requests, tasks that slipped past the keeper, and of course everyone wants everything ASAP!

CABJAKS online pricing and planning tools are as simple to use as a hitchhiker’s thumb.

Available everywhere and with a seven business day turnaround on most products you’ll have no trouble knowing which way is up.

Which means you can spend more time at the beach.

As a member of NZCB, you get a super sweet deal as well. Scan the QR Code to register, select NZ Certified Builder, or visit www.cabjaks.co.nz/account/register. We will send you an email with your exclusive discount code.

6 Echelon Place East Tamaki www.cabjaks.co.nz

Key considerations for choosing the right decking timber

Recommending the right decking timber for projects can be challenging. Here are some factors to guide your decision for a successful deck build.

Durability rating

Ensure the timber is virtually knot-free and comes with a recognised durability class rating. Vulcan Decking comes with a Durability Class 1 Rating, contributing to its long-lasting performance.

Chemical-free

Choose timber that has undergone a chemical-free treatment process. Timber treated through methods like thermal modification has improved durability and stability. Vulcan Decking, being thermally treated, is free from Red List chemicals as required by the Living Building Challenge.

Compatible fixings

Choose timber that works well with most fixings with no risk of adverse reactions. While stainless steel fixings are recommended for best results, Vulcan Decking performs well with most types of fixings.

Superior machining qualities

Go for timber with excellent machining characteristics. Vulcan Decking does not require pre-drilling. It’s easy to work with, cut and fix, making it a favoured material among professional and DIY builders alike.

Sustainability credentials

Look for Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified timber, preferably grown locally to reduce the carbon footprint. The FSC® label will prove the sustainable management of the forests. Vulcan Decking is FSC® certified as it is made from rapidly renewable New Zealand Radiata plantation forests.

Want to know more?

Visit www.abodo.co.nz/contact or call 09 249 0100 for more information.

Abodo Wood. A NZCB National Partner (Starter), Abodo timbers are harvested from FSC® certified, rapidly renewable, New Zealand plantation forests. Thermally modified with exceptional weatherability, our timbers stand the test of time, are beautiful and sustainable. Even better, they’re safe for people and the environment. Visit www.abodo.co.nz.

Image shows: Abodo Vulcan Decking, uncoated

NZCB Strategic Partners

New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) would like to thank our Strategic Partners who play a vital part in assisting to cover costs for our members’ personal development and training through NZCB regional seminars, NZCB Annual Conference and monthly live Zoom webinars. Their support also assists to cover expenses with our marketing and communications.

NZCB Affinity Partners

NZCB is proud to partner with the following companies, who are aligned with the Association to bring our members discounted services and products.

More information on these services and products can be found under the Member Benefits section, on the NZCB members-only Toolshed website, www.nzcb.nz/members/member-benefits or by contacting Linda at the NZCB National Support Office on 07 557 9214 or linda@nzcb.nz.

NZCB National Partners

New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) is proud to partner with the following companies who align with our Association and give NZCB members access to a wealth of expertise and support throughout New Zealand.

COMPANY WEBSITE

National Partners (Premium)

APL Window Solutions www.aplnz.co.nz

Comfortech Building Performance Solutions www.pinkbatts.co.nz

Enveloped Solutions Ltd www.enveloped.co.nz

MiTek New Zealand www.miteknz.co.nz

PlaceMakers www.placemakers.co.nz

Red Stag Timber www.redstag.co.nz

Resene Construction Systems www.reseneconstruction.co.nz

National Partners (Professional)

Milwaukee Tool New Zealand www.milwaukeetools.co.nz

Outdure Decking Systems www.outdure.co.nz

Resene Paints Ltd www.resene.co.nz

Sika (NZ) Ltd www.nzl.sika.com

National Partners (Starter)

Abodo Wood Ltd www.abodo.co.nz

Altus NZ Ltd www.altus.co.nz

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions New Zealand www.assaabloy.co.nz

Bowers Brothers Concrete Ltd www.bowersbrothers.co.nz

Builda Price (2016) Ltd www.buildaprice.co.nz

Connected Spaces www.connectedspacesjoinery.co.nz

CS For Doors Ltd www.csfordoors.co.nz

CSR Building Products (NZ) Ltd www.csr.co.nz

FMI Building Innovation www.aslnz.co.nz

FreeUp www.freeup.co.nz

Futurewood www.futurewood.nz

GCH Aviation Ltd www.gchaviation.com

Glass Vice Products www.glassvice.com

Green Light Escrow www.greenlightescrow.co.nz

Hirepool Ltd www.hirepool.co.nz

HomePlus www.homeplus.co.nz

COMPANY WEBSITE

Independent Building Supplies www.ibs.co.nz

James Hardie New Zealand www.jameshardie.co.nz

JSC Premium Architectural & Building Solutions www.jsc.co.nz

Kingspan Thermakraft Ltd www.thermakraft.co.nz

KLC Ltd www.klc.co.nz

Kopine www.kopine.co.nz

Laminex New Zealand www.laminexnewzealand.co.nz

Marley New Zealand Ltd www.marley.co.nz

Marshall Innovations Ltd www.mwnz.com

Masada www.masada.co.nz

Metro Performance Glass www.metroglass.co.nz

My Smart Office Ltd www.mysmartoffice.co.nz

Open2view www.open2view.co.nz

Pacific Steel (NZ) Ltd www.pacificsteel.co.nz

Paslode New Zealand www.paslode.co.nz

Pro Clima New Zealand Ltd www.proclima.co.nz

Productspec Ltd www.productspec.net

Proven Systems Ltd (DVS) www.dvs.co.nz

Rave Build Management www.ravebuild.co.nz

Red LBP Ltd www.redlbp.co.nz

Red QS Ltd www.redqs.nz

Rosenfeld Kidson & Co. Ltd www.rosenfeldkidson.co.nz

Schneider Electric www.pdl.co.nz

Simx Ltd www.simx.co.nz

Soudal Ltd www.soudal.co.nz

Superhome Movement www.superhome.co.nz

Swiss Credit Consultants www.swisscreditconsultants.co.nz

The Trades Coach www.tradescoach.co.nz

Tile Space www.tiles.co.nz

Unicom Security www.unicomsecurity.co.nz

Viking Roofspec www.vikingroofspec.co.nz

Warmup NZ Ltd www.warmup.co.nz

YourQS Ltd www.yourqs.co.nz