Message from South Island BDM, Nick Matthews

Getting back to basics

Nick Matthews NZCB & ITAB Business Development Manager – South Island

SOUTH

I read an article at the start of summer warning tradies to be extra vigilant about causing scrub fires due to the hotter than normal weather conditions. It reminded me of something that happened to my team and I some time ago.

A strong wind caught the sparks from an engineer’s angle grinder on-site, setting the empty neighbouring section on fire. We were lucky and managed to contain it. We had the basics covered by having an extinguisher and water hose handy, however, it could have gone so bad, so fast... We thought we had taken all practicable steps. Clearly, we had not.

Safety is no accident

My point is, most reputable builders will do due diligence to health and safety because we must; it’s the law. Site inductions, toolbox meetings, identifying hazards, and eliminating them. This is all great stuff but let’s not forget about the basics. Having compliant equipment on-site, such as a fire extinguisher, a well-maintained First Aid kit, sunscreen, and appropriate PPE are basic items that can help prevent harm or limit the impact caused by unexpected incidents. When was the last time you checked yours?

NZCB events in 2021

In keeping with my article’s theme ‘Getting Back to Basics’ let’s hope 2021 sees the return of our annual New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) national events. At the National Support Office, we are all very much looking forward to the return of the NZCB Apprentice Challenge sponsored by ITM schedule for 10 April and our National Conference and Expo, scheduled for 11-12 June. This year’s conference theme is Sustainability – helping members to grow, thrive and succeed. This is something we are all passionate about. If you’ve never supported the Apprentice Challenge or attended Conference, now is the time to register!

We’re growing!

Nationwide, membership with NZCB continues to grow. Business Development Managers (BDMs) Andrew MacDonald, Shane Ririnui, and I are experiencing high levels of inquiry, often leading to completed membership applications submitted. While not all applicants are successful, data for the year ending 31 December 2020 showed a record total of new memberships, surpassing our projected target by 59%. Not a bad result for a year that was affected by lockdowns, alert levels, on-site working protocols, and the temporary suspension of Halo Guarantee. I suspect we will see a similar result for 2021, as applicants advise they are seeking membership to: • raise their business professionalism • gain access to NZCB’s industry-leading contracts • use our highly recognisable brand • make the most of our proven support networks and business templates. These reasons for joining might seem obvious to you as an experienced campaigner and NZCB member. However, just like health and safety or the building process, getting the ‘basics’ right will ensure everything else is easier, safer, and forms the foundation for success.

Jason McClintock at Slope Point (the South Island’s southernmost point), The Catlins – Southland, NZ.

A big thank you

Sadly, on behalf of all his National Support Office (NSO) colleagues, it falls on me to farewell NZCB Group Technical Manager, Jason McClintock. For over 10 years, Jason has been in his role at NSO, but he’s been a loyal supporter of all things New Zealand Certified Builders since 1988, when he joined as a member. It’s now time for a change in direction and we wish him, his wife Margaret, and three grown-up kids, all the very best for the changes ahead. On a personal note, I thank him for his support, leadership, and camaraderie during my own time with NZCB. Jason will be missed for his industry knowledge and expertise. Go well mate, keep your string lines tight.

Ngā mihi.