Dozens attend inaugural professional development day in Hamilton

AROUND THE REGIONS — Alan Warburton NZCB President Waikato

Dozens attend inaugural professional WAIKATO development day in Hamilton

New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Waikato/Coromandel’s first Professional Development Day held at the Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) in Hamilton was a huge success.

The event, held on Friday 23 July, was opened up to the Waikato/Coromandel, Tauranga Districts, Whakatane, Rotorua, Taupo, and Auckland regions. Attendees were treated to a mini expo, with stand-holders from Wintec/ITAB, BCITO, BuildaPrice, and S2 King St, and four high calibre speakers, who drew on their valuable insight and experience. Our keynote speaker was construction law expert, Geoff Hardy, from Martelli McKegg Lawyers. Geoff covered topics such as how to handle a problem client, records of work and how the responsibilities differ between a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) and those of a qualified builder.

The day included three workshops with guest speakers NZCB National Apprentice Manager Nick Matthews, NZCB Communications and Group Services Manager Karla Farrar, and Solace Homes Quantity Surveyor John Jarvis.

Nick presented on the changing landscape for apprentices and their employers, including obligations they may have and financial assistance available.

Karla discussed the importance of branding and how doing it right can make you more successful, and John reflected on life as the owner of different-sized companies, what works at what stage, and the importance of good relationships and financial management throughout. Attendees’ feedback was very positive and the speakers felt their topics were well received and relevant in today’s current building climate. Four LBP points were gained by attendees as well as some great prizes, including the chance to win a Milwaukee M18 Radio Charger Skin (valued at $600) and website development to the value of $2,000 from S2 King St in Hamilton.

Thank you to our sponsors, exhibitors, guest speakers, the NZCB Waikato Committee, and everyone who attended. It was a great day and we look forward to doing it again next year.

Grant Laidlaw accepting the $2,000 website upgrade from Simone from S2 King St Hamilton

NZCB National Apprentice Manager, Nick Matthews presenting to attendees.

Ben Dean, winner of the Milwaukee Radio.

Our next regional event is the Annual Charity Golf Day at the Ngaruawahia Golf Club on 22 October. Keep an eye on your inbox for more details.