NZCB InHouse Magazine October/November 2024

NZCB Studio plans

INDUSTRY NEWS

SUSTAINABILITY

APPRENTICE SUPPORT

FROM OUR PARTNERS

TRADIE ACADEMY

REGIONAL

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

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Linda Moody

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linda@nzcb.nz

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From the Editor

Hello and welcome to the October/November issue of the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) InHouse magazine. I hope this issue finds you well and enjoying some warmer weather with longer days (bring on BBQ dinners!).

As I think about how to sum up the many articles this issue holds, I would like to take a moment to recognise the exceptionally talented and insightful partners and associates who generously contribute their time to write for us. They share their wisdom and knowledge with our members and stakeholders to help educate, upskill, and inform. Thank you! We are incredibly grateful for your contributions and commitment despite your busy schedules.

This issue is packed with information to help members with business basics, as well as guidance on more challenging aspects of working in the building industry. From tips on time management, marketing, and sales, to insights on returns from digital investments, adjudication, surviving a recession and health, safety and wellness – gear up for a great read!

To keep you informed about the Association’s latest developments, this issue includes an update from our Chief Executive, Malcolm Fleming, details on recent advocacy efforts, where we’ve got to with refreshing our suite of Certified Plans, and the latest news from the National Support Office.

As our range of NZCB partnerships continues to grow, we are thrilled to introduce our newest Affinity Partner, Samsung Electronics New Zealand. Additionally, MYOB has sharpened their pencil to offer even better deals for our members; details can be found on page 14.

Alongside these exciting updates, our expert partners also provide valuable technical tips and product insights. For a full list of NZCB Partners, please refer to pages 64 and 65.

A big thank you to our NZCB Presidents! From charity golf days to factory tours, family days, and breakfast and evening training sessions, these events wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our 22 Regional Presidents and their committees. These volunteers do an outstanding job of providing both educational and social events for our members. They devote significant time and energy to the Association and its members, while also serving as the go-to person and advocate for their respective regions. You can meet all 22 of our NZCB Presidents on pages 32 and 33.

Whether you’re flipping through these pages in the comfort of your lounge or during a well-deserved smoko break, I hope you gain valuable insights to apply to your business and life. And remember, InHouse can also help members earn LBP points; 1 hour of learning equals 1 LBP Elective point.

Until next time, take care and stay safe.

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.

Online ISSN 2703-2418 Find NZCB on

Print ISSN 2463-3305

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.

NZCB InHouse Editor

Chief Executive’s report

If you only paid attention to media reporting, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was all doom and gloom in the building industry.

Times are certainly tough and we know that many of our members don’t have a lot of work in the pipeline. But contrary to some of the reporting in the media and EBOSS’s annual survey of the building industry, our members seem, on the whole, more upbeat about what the future holds.

Certainly, recent events suggest our members are strongly engaged and taking the time to upskill themselves and plan for the inevitable upturn in work, which hopefully will come sooner rather than later with recent interest rate cuts.

It was great to see our members get involved in the Auckland Education Day, a health and safety workshop with Minister Brooke van Velden in Tauranga, and the Canterbury Committee’s ten-pin bowling night. The latter was an event that was thoroughly enjoyed by the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Board who were in Christchurch for a board meeting on the day of the event, something they are keen to replicate with board meetings planned for Tauranga and Wellington over the next 12 months.

For me, the event reminded me of a week-long stay I had in Christchurch as a teenager up from my hometown of Twizel, with the trip featuring daily visits to a ten-pin bowling alley. It was a good memory to have evoked.

With all the media attention on the state of the industry, we’ve been approached for comment on everything from the government’s consideration of an H1 legislation rollback and proposed changes to vocational education, through to falling construction costs and the IRD’s stated focus on construction trades meeting their tax obligations.

Behind the scenes, we’ve also been hard at work producing submissions for the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) around granny flat consenting, introducing overseas building products into New Zealand, and changes to workplace education. You can read more at www.nzcb.nz/submissions.

Through this process, we’ve honed our story about who NZCB is and how we fit into the broader industry, emphasising that our members are pragmatic, adaptive, and resilient in the face of the current downturn. It’s a really compelling narrative and is generating a lot of media and government interest, which is ultimately to the benefit of our members.

We’ve been able to ramp up our media engagement and public advocacy work because we’ve been investing in our communications capability.

At the moment, we have a contractor in the National Support Office (NSO) through until Christmas, and we’re currently looking at what our long-term communications needs will be. We’re already seeing the benefits of having this in-house capacity,

as well as being more strategic in how we target our public relations efforts towards activities that align with our strategic objectives and building relationships with the media and decisionmakers, rather than being singularly focused on event exposure.

But there’s been plenty going on in addition to media commentary. We’ve been rolling out the first of the Coach the Crew workshops across the North Island under the NZCB Learn brand. Version 2 of our Certified Plans is shaping up well with some great looking concepts that are now at Detailed Design stage, ahead of a launch to market before Christmas. Also well advanced is the NZCB Site Waste Plan, which is at the stage of costing and funding model development.

We’re looking to help our members diversify their income streams with the creation of a NZCB Maintenance Contract that when supported by appropriate marketing collateral, will provide our members with a natural add-on service to offer their clients. This idea was generated by a discussion I had at the 2024 NZCB AGM, Conference & Expo with Laureen Goodger, and it’s great to see it progress from a good idea to a tangible document.

Understanding the power of the NZCB community in the current climate, the board has also agreed on subscription rates for the newly ratified Associate Member (targeted specifically at Business Member partners) and Retired Member categories. Both of these categories are now live and will allow for those who are connected to NZCB but not a member in their own right, or those who have been a NZCB member previously, to respectively deepen or extend their connection with the Association.

All in all, it’s been a hectic few months but I’m pleased at where things are going as we head into summer.

Malcolm Fleming NZCB Chief Executive

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NZCB Board 2024-2025

The New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Board plays an important role in setting the direction for the Association, and one of the Member Director positions was up for renewal earlier this year.

The position had been held by Nick Farrelly of Edgecity Builders Limited in Auckland for the past three years, and Nick chose to stand for re-election.

A call for nominations went out to members in April, with Matt Hatchard of Hatchard Builders Limited, in Bay of Islands/Far North put forward.

In May, we went out to members to vote on who they would like to represent them on the NZCB Board for the one Member Director position. We received 206 votes in total (114 for Nick and 84 for Matt) and at this year’s NZCB Annual General Meeting, held on 21 June, it was announced Nick had been the successful candidate and re-elected onto the NZCB Board.

Chairperson and Vice Chairperson

The NZCB Board met on 24 July, where they re-elected Nick Farrelly as NZCB Board Chairperson. Nick has been a member of the Association since 1998 and was elected to the NZCB Board in 2021, holding the position of Vice Chairperson (2021 - 2022) and Chairperson for the past two years.

Nick has been involved with the NZCB Auckland Committee for many years and has held various roles including NZCB President Auckland (2019 – 2021). He runs Edgecity Builders Limited in Auckland with his wife, Sharon.

Garry Nott, elected to the NZCB Board in 2022, will continue in the position of Vice Chairperson. Garry has over 30 years of experience in the industry, including 10 years teaching carpentry at the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT).

Garry joined the Association in 2007 and has been on the Nelson Bays Committee since then, holding the role of NZCB President Nelson Bays (2012 – 2018). He runs Tasman Homes (Nelson) Limited with his wife, Paulette.

Our two Independent Directors, Katrina Bach and Andrée Atkinson, who have been on the NZCB Board since 2021, remain unchanged.

To learn more about the 2024-2025 NZCB Board of Directors, you can read their profiles at www.nzcb.nz/our-board-of-directors/.

2024-2025 NZCB Board members, top row from left to right: Chairperson Nick Farrelly, Vice Chairperson Garry Nott, Member Director Niamh Short. Bottom row from left to right: Member Director Ian Chamberlain, Independent Director Katrina Bach and Independent Director Andrée Atkinson.

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.

Potential rollback of H1 regulations

A focus for the news media in recent months has been on proposals to rollback H1 building regulations, which set expectations around the thermal performance of homes and, in particular, around insulation.

Chief Executive (CE) Malcolm Fleming provided an NZCB perspective on a number of these stories, arguing that while there may be ways to reduce the costs of these regulations, the basic principle behind them was a good one, and that the regulations were making a significant contribution to the wellbeing of homeowners.

Before these stories emerged, we had already been speaking to Minister Penk about H1 and the costs of the regulations. We expressed doubts about the costs that had been reported to him anecdotally, and offered to survey our members to assess the actual financial impact.

We had an excellent response to our survey, which confirmed that the actual cost of the H1 regulations was considerably lower than had been reported. In September, we gained even more hard data by working with EBOSS, Designgroup Stapleton Elliott, and Your QS on an analysis of two of our new NZCB Studio plans, which proved the extra costs of H1 regulations are minimal (see page 10 for more detail).

This research and our member survey has been passed this information onto the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) for further consideration. Thank you to everyone who contributed.

Economic downturn and the building industry

There has been a steady stream of reports about the state of the economy and the impact on the building industry. These reports drew on data released by EBOSS in its Builder Sentiment Report 2024, reporting 70% of builders surveyed believe industry conditions will continue to decline over the next 12 months.

We provided comment on a number of these stories, noting that while the economic situation is tough for builders, residential builders like NZCB members are more resilient to slumps than some of the industry’s bigger players. These comments cited our member survey, which asked members about their confidence to see through the next 12 months. Of the 125 responses we received, 57% of members said they were confident or very confident, with a further 44% saying they were neutral.

We hope that with falling interest rates, residential building work will pick up in the coming months. Having said that, we’re fully aware

that the economy is not where we would like it to be, and that a lot of our members have a relatively limited pipeline of work. If you are concerned about your ability to maintain your membership, please contact us (0800 237 843) to discuss your situation and see how we can help.

Granny flat submission

In August, we made a submission on MBIE’s proposal to simplify consenting rules for granny flats (under 60sqm). The general position was that we were supportive of efforts to make this process simpler and cheaper, but that basic checks on the building work still needed to be done. We suggested ways of simplifying the process, while maintaining building standards. You can read our full submission at www.nzcb.nz/submissions.

Vocational education reforms

MBIE has also been consulting on proposed changes to vocational education, centred around disestablishing Te Pūkenga and replacing it with a new “federation model” for some ITPs. We put forward a submission opposed to this model and strongly in favour of strengthening the existing ITP network, albeit with some modifications, and ensuring clear separation between standard setting bodies and training providers. You can read our full submission at www.nzcb.nz/submissions.

MBIE’s Building Advisory Panel

Into the second year of its three-year term, the Building Advisory Panel (BAP) of eight construction industry leaders is providing feedback on the new government’s ambitious regulatory review, and assistance to MBIE on the work programmes that flow out of those pressures, or are running parallel with them.

NZCB representative: NZCB CE Malcolm Fleming

New Zealand Construction Industry Council

In July, NZCB CE, Malcolm Fleming came to the end of his two-year term as NZCIC Chair. Malcolm came onto the NZCIC Executive (their board) in 2019 as Deputy Chair, a position he held for three-years before becoming the Chair in 2022.

Malcolm’s final Council meeting as Chair involved in-person presentations by Building & Construction Minister, Chris Penk and MBIE Building System Performance Branch GM, David Hall.

NZCIC is the peak body for construction industry associations and professional membership bodies, which includes NZCB, Engineering NZ, BRANZ, NZIOB, NZIA and 30 others.

NZCB representative: NZCB CE Malcolm Fleming

NZCB Studio plans ready by Christmas

Our refresh of the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Certified Plans design portfolio is well underway, with the first two new plans close to being finalised.

The plans will be available to NZCB members under a new section of our website called NZCB Studio, and we’re hoping to eventually have five plans available free to all NZCB business members, as a resource they can offer their own clients.

The older Certified Plans will continue to be available to members who have previously registered for them.

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 small 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 make any minor changes to any of the tiers of design specification, at an additional cost to them.

NZCB has been working with leading architects Designgroup Stapleton Elliott (DGSE) on the plans, and one of the main goals was to come up with a set of designs that would not only look great at an affordable price point, but also be high performing builds.

With the government looking at reviewing H1 insulation regulations due to speculation about unreasonable costs on homeowners, these considerations are highly relevant.

Anecdotal evidence had been mentioned in the media that H1 standards might add up to $50,000 more in build costs over the pre-2023 standards. Industry group EBOSS was keen to test these claims by analysing the insulation required by the Studio designs to meet H1 regulations.

According to research carried out by quantity surveyors YourQS Limited, H1-compliant insulation added only $10,609 to pre-2023 build costs for the 3-bedroom 140m² house plan when assessed using the schedule method.

The research found that these additional costs could be reduced to just $2,179 over the pre-2023 build cost by using the more sophisticated calculation method.

The report also analysed the 2-bedroom 92m² Studio design. Results showed the increased insulation standards would add $11,417 on pre-2023 build costs if using the schedule method. Using the calculation method would actually make the home $1,334 cheaper to insulate than under the pre-2023 standards, with superior insulation.

“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 members will be notified by email when the new designs are finalised and ready to offer to clients by the end of November.

National Support Office updates

It’s been a busy few months at New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) with staffing changes. We are excited to introduce you to our newest team member Lauren Thorne but we’re also sorry to say farewell to Nick Matthews.

Welcome Lauren!

NZCB are excited to welcome our newest team member, Office Coordinator Lauren Thorne.

Lauren started with the Association in July after an incredibly high level of interest in the role. Lauren comes from a tourism and office management background and will be a huge asset to the Association.

Lauren joins the Accounts Team and is based at the Tauranga National Support Office. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Lauren.

Sandra Kennerley

NZCB Chief Financial Officer

Good luck Nick

After nine fantastic years at NZCB, our Membership and Technical Manager Nick Matthews is moving on to take up an exciting new opportunity as South Island Sales Team Lead at Winstone Wallboards.

This is a role that doesn’t come up very often and Nick felt it was too good a chance to ignore. The good news is that he will retain his NZCB individual membership, and will continue to be a regular attendee at our events. It will be great to stay in touch!

One of Nick’s great achievements at NZCB was creating our Apprentice Network, and turning the Apprentice Challenge into a major national event. The network has grown rapidly from a handful of apprentices to more than 200 trainee members now, becoming a valuable part of our membership offering.

On behalf of everyone at NZCB, thank you to Nick for everything he has done and all the very best for the new role.

Nick’s last day at NZCB is 11 October.

Malcolm Fleming NZCB Chief Executive

Must-have clothing for spring

All prices include GST. Check out the full range of merchandise available under the Shop on the NZCB members-only Toolshed at www.nzcb.nz/members/shop.

If you have any questions, please contact Kirsty at the NZCB National Support Office on 07 987 2292 or kirsty@nzcb.nz.

Kirsty Armstrong NZCB Membership Benefits Coordinator

Scruffs Trade Flex Holster shorts $90.00

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John Bull Himalaya 3.0 work boots $231.00

Steel-toe boots provide maximum protection all year round.

NZCB Affinity Partner updates

We are excited to announce a new addition to our New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Affinity Partner programme. Samsung Electronics New Zealand has joined, and MYOB has enhanced its offering for members.

Affinity Partners collaborate with the Association to bring added value to our members by offering exclusive deals, cutting-edge products, and expert services that help you achieve the best outcomes for your business.

We’re excited to announce our new Samsung Electronics New Zealand partnership, with new 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.

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

From October, members will be able to access Samsung products by simply logging in to the NZCB members-only Toolshed.

Want to know more about these exciting partnerships?

We encourage you to explore these new partnerships and take advantage of the offers available.

For more information on how to take advantage of these deals, be sure to check out the Benefits tab on the members-only Toolshed (www.nzcb.nz/members/member-benefits/).

With Samsung Electronics New Zealand now on board and MYOB’s enhanced offer, we continue to expand the range of benefits available to you.

Whether you’re established or just getting started, MYOB’s award-winning software is packed with flexible features that scale with you as you grow. With expert support available seven days a week and the freedom to cancel anytime, MYOB lets you focus on your business, not your admin.

Manage your finances in one place, saving you time and money. Make more informed decisions with real-time financial reporting, automated invoicing and expense management, and simplified tax preparation. Easily view income, expenses, and profits, and ensure accuracy with pre-filled data. Track payments, upload receipts, and stay tax-ready with matched transactions and organised records.

MYOB’s latest offer for NZCB members: pay for one month and receive an additional six months free!

This exclusive deal is available for NZCB customers who are new to MYOB or have not had an active MYOB subscription for at least three months (T&Cs apply). The offer applies to base subscriptions of MYOB Business Lite, Pro, AccountRight Plus, or Premier.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates as we continue to grow and enhance our partnership network to support you – our valued members.

NZCB 2025 diaries

All New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Individual and Business members are entitled to one free diary per year.

Diaries are available in two sizes: A4 (297mm x 210mm) and A5 (148mm x 210mm).

To receive a diary, you must place an order through the NZCB members-only Toolshed. It’s easy:

• Log on to the Toolshed

• Scroll to the bottom of the menu on the left-hand side and select ‘ORDER 2025 DIARY’

• Double-check your address is correct

• Select the size you require

• Press the ‘Submit’ button.

If your postal address is different to what appears on the form, please contact the NZCB National Support Office on 0800 237 843 or info@nzcb.nz, so it can be updated to ensure your diary is sent to the correct address.

Strengthening connections

Over the past couple of months, the NZCB Events team has been hard at work, focusing on building and strengthening relationships across our regions. We’ve made significant strides in understanding the unique characteristics and needs of different committees and regional groups. This has been an essential step in tailoring our support and enhancing our collaboration efforts.

One of our primary goals has been to open up and maintain effective lines of communication. We’ve introduced regular online catch-ups, complemented by frequent emails, phone calls, and text messages. Presidents and Coordinators now also have access to their own SharePoint page where they not only have their own regional space but they can also access contacts lists, our calendars, templates, links to forms and more. These efforts have significantly improved the flow of information and facilitated better coordination between the event team and regional committees.

We’ve also been dedicated to streamlining our processes and support requests. By refining these workflows, we’ve been able to respond more efficiently to the needs of our members and ensure that our events are well-organised and successful. Working on contact lists, vendor lists, and building and designing resources has been keeping us busy as well.

A prime example of our collaborative efforts was working with the Waikato Region, supporting the planning of their Education Day. The event planning process began with face-to-face brainstorming sessions with Janelle (Coordinator) and Shaun (President) to outline ideas and set clear goals. From there, we all worked together to secure venues, create invitations, engage speakers, arrange catering, and manage ticketing.

Regular contact, action points, and the distribution of tasks across the committee ensured that the workload was evenly spread and that everyone remained on track. While planning this significant event, we also laid the groundwork for future events, ensuring that we maintain a proactive approach to event management. Working with Team Waikato was a great experience and one we all learned a lot from.

In the past few months, the regions have hosted a variety of events, including factory tours, chippies breakfasts, member training

meetings, education expos, and casual “Chew the Fat” beer sessions. We’ve also participated in careers expos and are in the midst of planning several golf days across the motu.

We are thoroughly enjoying the increased interaction with our regions and take pride in being able to assist on event days, source vendors, provide administrative support, and collaborate with you all. It’s inspiring to work with individuals who are passionate about making their events successful. The individual members are always at the heart of the planning process.

We extend thanks to everyone who has sent messages of support, and positivity. Your enthusiasm and dedication are appreciated!

Chris Boyle’s marketing presentation at the Waikato Education Day.

NZCB Trainee Member Rebecca Chamberlain with NZCB Education and Events Coordinator Katrina Foster at the Taupō Careers Expo.

Regional spotlight

Building a stronger Rotorua: An interview with the NZCB Rotorua Committee President and Coordinator

Since 2017 Erin Pope, President of the NZCB Rotorua Committee, has been committed to fostering a close-knit community of members. The Committee’s Coordinator, Lee Ann McCann, who stepped into the role 18 months ago, has quickly become an essential part of this mission. Together, they have been working tirelessly to bring local members together, creating a platform for shared growth and camaraderie. We had the pleasure of meeting with the team and asked a few questions.

Q: What are some of the events you have held?

We’ve organised the local ‘Chippies Breakfast’, which runs every month from February to November. These breakfasts have been instrumental in engaging our local merchants with NZCB. Occasionally, they even organise morning trips to local mills and manufacturers, such as Hume Pine. Currently, we’re arranging a golf day for November.

Q: What do you think is the most valuable thing that comes from regular events and meetings?

Continuity is key. If our members know that the event or meeting will take place no matter what, they can be assured that it’s happening the day they turn up, regardless of the numbers. Regular events have also helped build camaraderie. Our members who consistently show up are now seeing the benefits of knowing more of their peers around town. These connections are invaluable.

For example, one of our younger members that’s not long joined NZCB and has been consistently coming along to the breakfasts rang me the other day. He called and asked if he was able to have a chat about some issues he was having on his project with communications around the design discrepancies.

He was finding discrepancies in the architectural drawings and had requested further information to clarify these discrepancies.

The problem was with the cladding. In the spec it specified a particular type and colour of paint to use on a James Hardie product. The LRV of the paint could not be used on this James Hardie product in a lakes zone, so he asked for clarification and was basically told to get on with the build. He also contacted the council for clarification around this issue with not a great response.

At this point he said he was well confused around the responsibilities of the architect; he felt the architect should be at hand to resolve any discrepancies found within their drawings while under construction. With continually being disregarded by the architect and having exhausted most avenues to try and resolve the problem he said he was now starting to feeling alone with nowhere to turn.

We had a lengthy chat about what I would do in this situation, how I would approach the architect and the avenues that I would take to get the issue sorted. We talked about the responsibilities of the architect in the design process and the council with processing, inspection and final CCC.

This is where the consistent breakfast meetings become invaluable.

In our last meeting I asked our member how he was getting on with the architect. This brief comment turned into a great group discussion which opened the flood gates with other members disclosing they have encountered similar issues too.

What was great about this day is that we also had a couple of apprentices in the group so for them to hear what problems companies and their bosses encounter was the best learning for them.

This one story also lead on to other similar stories which was awesome. We may be competitors day to day but we can also be support people for each other from time to time too.

Q: What is your vision for the Rotorua region?

Our vision is to have a community of NZCB builders who build Rotorua together – competitively, without being competitive. We’re all competitors in some way, but if we can all improve by knowing and supporting each other, it can only make us stronger.

Q: What is the most rewarding thing about being a President and Coordinator team?

It can be challenging to find rewards in a small community where members are often disengaged. However, as we grow the group base and members start getting to know each other, the communication and discussions are becoming more in-depth. Those small rewards make a big difference.

Q: What makes it work well for you both?

For me, it’s what the brand stands for. I’m passionate about all builders being qualified and ensuring that clients get the best trades possible to complete their projects.

The passion and dedication of the Rotorua Committee’s President and Coordinator are evident in their efforts to build a stronger, more connected community of NZCB builders. Through regular events and a shared vision, they are steadily achieving their goal of fostering collaboration and excellence within the Rotorua region. Catch you next issue.

NZCB Events Team: Katrina Foster NZCB Education and Events Coordinator (left), and Marcia Hintz NZCB Education and Events Manager (right) .

Golf day planning in Rotorua with President Erin Pope (left), Regional Coordinator Lee Ann McCann (centre), and NZCB Education and Events Coordinator Katrina Foster (right).

Getting to know remote inspections

Remote inspections allow building consent authority (BCA) inspectors to check if building work complies with a building consent without being physically on-site. They are becoming more popular for BCAs in Aotearoa/New Zealand as a way to save time and money and provide business continuity.

The use of remote inspections increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and they have also been utilised during extreme weather events when site accessibility has been impacted by road closures.

Understanding the remote inspection process

Remote inspections allow BCAs to perform compliance assessments from remote locations, whether that be from the council, home offices or different cities. Using technology in this way can help people across the building system to work differently, run their sites more efficiently, and enable people to work more flexibly and productively.

There are two main approaches to the use of remote inspections:

• Real-time remote inspections: inspections conducted via live video stream which enable the inspector to direct the on-site tradesperson in real time to acquire the information they need.

• Evidence-based remote inspections: this approach involves capturing digital information on-site, which is assessed for compliance at a later stage. The inspector sets clear expectations in advance, and can request additional information from the tradesperson if needed.

In both cases, BCAs may start with lower complexity building types, such as single level builds, garages and minor renovations.

More timely inspections

Remote inspections may allow BCAs to deliver more inspections without being held up by travel. For builders, this means they get inspections at a time that suits them, rather than relying on the inspector’s availability. It also reduces the chance of subcontractors having down time and being paid to wait for the inspector.

Case study – Mackenzie District Council

The Mackenzie district covers approximately 7,000 square kilometres, and with the council having only one in-house building control officer, consideration needed to be given to how they were going to deliver inspections throughout the district.

For builders in the Mackenzie, remote inspections provide surety that an inspection will happen as scheduled. In a large district with long travel times, even small delays in the arrival of a building inspector can result in big holdups of contractors and materials.

from one screen in their office to another.

Hear Mackenzie District Council talk about remote inspections at www.building.govt.nz/building-officials/guides-for-buildingofficials/building-consent-inspections#jumpto-case-studies.

Further guidance

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has developed guidance with steps for BCAs looking to adopt remote inspections which will also be of interest to builders. Find out more at www.building.govt.nz.

This guidance is a living document, which will be updated to reflect any changes to technology or future legislative changes.

With remote inspections, one person sitting in an office can travel from Twizel to Fairlie across the region in seconds rather than hours, just by changing

Glass insulators get a second life with Pink® Batts® insulation

At Comfortech®, we truly care about the country that we’re lucky enough to call home and remain committed to improving our sustainability capabilities, including using over 80% recycled glass in our Pink® Batts® insulation. We use local New Zealand glass waste, sourced by 5R Solutions, who specialise in window glass waste recovering. Through this recycling process, we divert approximately nine million kilograms of glass waste from landfill each year.

Our relationships are every bit as important as the product we make, which is why we were so pleased to support Transpower with their sustainability initiative – an opportunity to turn glass waste into an advantage!

Transpower is the owner and operator of New Zealand’s electricity grid, which keeps the power flowing across the country. They provide and maintain the infrastructure and market systems which connect electricity generators to major electricity users and distribution networks.

Transpower were looking at ways to recycle their glass insulators from pylons once they reached end-of-life. It was only when Transpower identified 5R Solutions that recycling became a serious prospect. 5R’s experience included collecting vehicle windscreens and other plate glass, and our existing relationship with 5R made them an ideal partner for Transpower.

Our Manufacturing Manager, Murray Inwood has been instrumental in this process, helping to bring Transpower’s initiative to life. Today, we are successfully recycling Transpower’s glass insulators back into our Pink® Batts® insulation.

To celebrate this success, we recently welcomed Transpower team members Raewyn Moss, Matt Walker and 5R’s Managing Director, Chris Grant to our Comfortech® Head Office in Penrose, where we manufacture our Pink® Batts® insulation.

Matt said “The manufacturing process was fascinating to see. The plant includes a melt furnace, the spinning of molten glass into fibres which then mesh in an airstream, to form glass wool – the product we are all familiar with for conserving energy in our homes. It’s a fitting end for our waste materials.”

The process

Initially, Transpower had to find a business willing to process the insulators for recycling and agree on a safe and efficient way to collect and transport the insulators from around the country to the processing sites. They approached several potential users, whose interests didn’t line up with their own, until they found 5R Solutions.

For the initiative to be a success, the insulator components needed to be safely separated, given they have toughened glass skirts, bonded by cement to steel stubs and interconnecting pins. It was up to 5R Solutions to demonstrate that they could perform this safely.

Our Pink® Batts® manufacturing plant operates a continuous process, critically sensitive to glass viscosity. Therefore, the toughened insulator glass needed to be sent overseas to the United States for testing and to advise whether the material mix would have issues during the manufacturing processes.

This recycling scheme includes increased transportation of glass insulators, ultimately to the re-manufacturing sites in Auckland. Insulators are currently transported to regional landfill sites.

The carbon emissions of the increased transport are far outweighed by the much lower carbon footprint of manufacturing from recycled glass than from virgin raw materials, along with the extraction, processing and transport that process involves.

A study for another national glass source, which considered recycled glass transported to Auckland from the South Island for glass bottle manufacture, demonstrated the sustainability benefits of glass recycling, even where national transport of materials was required.

This glass insulator recycling initiative by Transpower will divert 127 tonnes of insulators from landfill per annum - equivalent to over 60 cars! It gets Transpower halfway towards their target to reduce the proportion of landfilled waste by 30% between 2022/23 and 2030 and will also reduce disposal costs by approximately 30%. With landfill levy increases announced last month, the cost-benefit of this initiative will only go up.

We are thrilled to partner with Transpower and 5R Solutions on this sustainability initiative, helping Transpower to get closer to achieving their targets and acting on our commitment to the New Zealand environment.

A typical glass insulator string is shown on the left, with a separated stub, cement, and pin for metal recycling in the centre, and glass for recycling on the right.

NZGBC launches detailed design guide for Homestar

As interest in healthier, more efficient, and environmentally friendly homes increases, Te Kaunihera Hanganga Tautaiao | New Zealand Green Building Council is launching its first Homestar design guide to support the industry to deliver.

Created with the support of Respond Architects, BRANZ, Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects, and Architectural Designers New Zealand, the design guide works to get into the detail of how to tackle issues like moisture control, embodied carbon, and indoor air quality.

“We’re now in a position where many in the industry fully appreciate the need to go over and above the New Zealand Building Code, and are using Homestar to help do that. However, we know many still need further guidance on some of the specifics of how to actually make it happen,” says Matthew Cutler-Welsh, NZGBC’s Business Development Manager – Residential.

The guide provides important information for meeting the latest version of Homestar – version 5 – which introduced higher targets and new industry-leading tools for the modelling of energy and carbon emissions, and controlling overheating. With four case studies covering different housing typologies, the guide allows architects and designers to start with performance and sustainability in mind, rather than overlaying Homestar on an existing design or plan.

“Since updating the tool, we’ve seen many architects and developers try to shoe-horn the latest requirements into old designs. This can often be hugely expensive and add a raft of unnecessary challenges. As this design guide shows, it’s actually very straightforward and doesn’t need to be expensive if the requirements are considered right from the start,” Matthew says.

“We all want a country where people are healthy and comfortable at home, and not forced to clean up mould and condensation every winter, or spend a tremendous amount heating or cooling their house. This guide aims to help new builders, developers and architects support that vision.”

The guide was created alongside the industry to ensure it provides robust guidance and a framework for the industry to succeed.

“There are huge benefits to building great spaces for our people and the planet. We’re proud to support this guide and the work our sector is doing with Homestar to embed efficiency and carbon-busting design into our homes,” says Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects.

Further information

For more information view the Homestar design guide at www.nzgbc.org.nz/homestar-design-guide.

News Bites

HomePlus introduces new frameless glass sliding door systems

Rolline™ and GlasGlide™ systems are modern Sliding Frameless Glass Door Systems, suitable for use with 10- and 12-mm toughened glass and are specifiable for commercial and residential internal applications with a PS1.

GlasGlide utilises a concealed twin roller carriage mechanism, with a low-profile track design (only 62mm high) to provide space-saving

Smart, keyless, secure and easy to use

The Yale Unity® Slim Smart Lock is ideal for aluminium door profiles. It offers easy access with a built-in keypad or your smartphone via the Yale Home App.

Designed in New Zealand to brave our harshest weather, it boasts a durable powder-coated finish with a tough UV-protected screen.

technology whilst allowing glass doors to move smoothly and safely. The twin clamp roller mechanism means that glass preparation is greatly reduced and panels weighing up to 150kgs can be moved effortlessly. GlasGlide can be either top or side-fixed and used in a single panel door, or door and fixed sidelight configuration. Rolline is particularly suitable for high-end internal residential and

commercial applications and can support glass panels up to 3.0m wide and 2.7m high with a maximum glass weight 200kg (depending on wind zone). Rolline also has external applications as a non-waterproof offering in low wind zone areas.

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

The Unity® Slim Smart Lock uses the Induro® 4-Point ‘lift handle to lock’ system, which enables convenient key-free locking, enhances security, and provides improved door seal performance.

To find out more, visit www.yalehome.com/nz/en

TMT Amba - JSC’s latest Thermally Modified Timber option

The latest addition to the JSC TMT range, TMT Amba, is being introduced in November 2024. This lighter, clearer grade timber offers exceptional durability, stability, and a clean, premium quality finish free from lamination lines, making it ideal for both exterior and interior projects.

With its consistent light golden brown tone, TMT Amba serves as a versatile base that performs well in various climates and readily accepts darker coating colours, offering greater design flexibility. The thermal modification process, using heat and steam, enhances durability without the need for harmful chemicals, providing a sustainable, non-toxic choice for cladding, interior linings, or battens. Enjoy longlasting performance with minimal maintenance.

For more information or a free sample, visit www.jsc.co.nz or contact sales@jsc.co.nz.

Explore 13 stunning new Melteca decors

Discover the latest 13 additions to the Melteca Melamine collection, which embraces the latest global colour trends.

The collection is enriched with the introduction of enduring ash timber shades and the modern reinterpretation of beloved classics, perfect for kitchen cabinetry, drawers, shelving, furniture and wall lining in residential and commercial projects. Each decor is complemented by a 1mm edgetape to ensure a flawless finish.

The updated selection presents seven woodgrain patterns, ranging from the rich brown Vintage Walnut to the timeless Urban Ash, all presented with our exquisite organic finish. The addition of four modern neutrals provides balance and warmth, with versatility to pair with light and darker tones.

More details available at www.laminex.co.nz/melteca

A breakthrough in UV colour stability

This new New Zealand-designed cowl represents a product development breakthrough with a special new material formulation. The matte white or black Chateau cowls feature outstanding UV colour stability, superior embrittlement resistance, and improved airflow.

The cowls are proven by accelerated testing to be between 7 to 27 times more colour stable than the competitor’s cowls in New Zealand (as tested by an independent certified testing agency). Chateau also features a 16% improved airflow rate over competitor’s cowls in a typical New Zealand inline fan system.

Nail your Record of Work forms with SmartBuild

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

SmartBuild has been developed right here in Aotearoa/New Zealand by a practicing LBP. Developed to mirror the way we work, it’s designed to be practical, meet all legal requirements and be easy to use. Everything is online, available anytime and from any device.

Simply log in to your account, select tasks from our highly detailed tickbox options and send with one click. Job done!

SmartBuild is designed for both solo LBPs and businesses engaging teams of LBPs in their residential building projects.

SmartBuild’s standout features:

• Automated compliance: Ensures that every LBP form is error-free, and is automatically signed and dated.

• Licence status checks: Regularly checks LBP licence status, matching tasks to the right licences.

• Upload and share project documents and photos: A single place for all project records.

• Comprehensive dashboard: View all your pending and completed tasks at a glance.

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

• Flexible pricing plans: Free to use for solo LBPs. Small and large team plans receive 90 days free introductory period.

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

The Manrose Chateau weatherproof cowl, available in 125mm and 150mm sizes, is designed to cover and protect external wall penetrations of extract ventilation systems. Designed and developed in New Zealand to withstand our high UV levels, this weatherproof cowl is suitable for almost any residential property throughout the country.

Chateau has several other unique features that sets it apart from competitors. Its quiet monofilm backdraught shutters also improve the airflow efficiency, and the underside mounted birdmesh completely prevents pests from entering.

To view our independent test report or find our more information about Chateau, please visit our website via this QR code:

Cultivating a thriving workplace: from resilience to achievement

A couple of years ago, I drafted a set of principles aimed at fostering a dynamic and thriving workplace within the construction industry. Today, these principles remain as important, if not more so, than when they were first introduced.

The workplace is where most learning occurs, and it is crucial to position it in a way that benefits both mentors and learners through good practices and habits.

In revisiting my work and rewriting this article, I have reaffirmed the timeless relevance of these principles. By implementing them, workplaces can build resilience, celebrate achievements, and cultivate a culture of growth and excellence that benefits learners, organisations, and the industry as a whole.

A “learner” is not limited to an apprentice, nor should a “learning workplace” be limited to one that employs apprentices. A learning workplace is one that is thriving and one which applies these principles to all who work in it.

Principle 1: Learners represent standards

Learners reflect the values and standards of your company. The quality of their work upholds these standards, and guiding learners is a collective effort to maintain and elevate the reputation and integrity of the organisation. Investing in learners’ development is crucial.

A learning workplace is one that is thriving and one which applies these principles to all who work in it.

Principle 2: Capture progress through documentation

Documentation is a powerful tool for capturing progress and achievements. Even when not explicitly required, taking and collecting photos serves as a visual representation of growth. These images become a source of pride, allowing learners to see tangible evidence of their journey and reminding them of their accomplishments. Prioritising learning by weaving training into the fabric of workplace culture ensures a well-equipped, knowledgeable, and adaptable workforce. Embracing this philosophy helps organisations stay ahead of industry trends and maintain a competitive edge.

Principle 3: Lead by example

Leaders are critical role models. Their actions, decisions, and interactions shape the perceptions and attitudes of newcomers. Leaders who exemplify professionalism, ethics, and a passion for continuous learning set a standard for others to follow.

Principle 4: Celebrate sign-off and achievements

The power of celebration lies in acknowledging milestones and achievements. Sign-offs and comments on work are more than administrative tasks; they foster a culture of appreciation and motivation. Celebrating these achievements shows that hard work is valued and rewarded.

Principle 5: Allocated administrative time is a strategic investment

Dedicating administrative time to review progress and provide guidance demonstrates commitment to learners. Being present during these moments ensures learners receive the support needed to thrive.

Principle 6: Trades are a fusion of expertise

Our trades are a fusion of science, technology, and engineering, demanding a holistic approach to learning. Embracing this multidimensional nature equips learners with the versatility needed to excel in specialised fields.

Principle 7: Gather comprehensive evidence

Collecting evidence of capability is essential for understanding and assessing learners’ skills. Engaging in discussions with peers provides a well-rounded view of an individual’s capabilities. A collaborative approach to gathering evidence ensures informed and accurate evaluations, contributing to fair assessments and personalised development paths.

Principle 8: Foster strong relationships and integrity

Fostering strong connections within the team is crucial. Strong relationships facilitate effective communication, collaboration, and mentorship. Maintaining integrity when signing off work is vital to upholding the company’s high standards, and demonstrating a commitment to excellence and professionalism.

By implementing these principles, workplaces can create an environment that supports growth, excellence, and achievement –benefiting learners, organisations, and the industry as a whole.

Marcia Hintz NZCB Education and Events Manager

Liquidation numbers are on the rise

If you’re finding it difficult to manage your debt and cashflow, rest assured that you are not alone.

This year has seen a significant increase in company liquidations in New Zealand. The table (right) shows liquidations, receiverships and voluntary administrations going back to 2009. But whereas the bars represent the full year figures for 2009-2023, the bar for 2024 represents only the first six months of this year. Expectations are that the number of formal insolvencies in 2024 will far exceed 2023 although hopefully not reach the levels we saw in 2009 during the global financial crisis.

While numbers are up across all sectors, this is especially so for the construction and property industries. In the quarter ended 30 June 2024 these industries collectively represented 38% (249 in number) of all liquidations.1

While large company liquidations attract significant media attention, most liquidations are of smaller owner operated companies colloquially referred to as “Mum and Dad businesses”. Such businesses can be caught by the domino effect of the failure of a larger operator, triggered particularly where the company has a strong reliance on a single customer or project for its income and cashflow. Working for one primary customer has its benefits but results in increased risk and reliance on the financial stability of that customer. In such circumstances strong credit management and monitoring is advised.

1 Figures obtained from Centrix July 2024 credit insights report.

So how does the liquidation come about?

A company liquidation can be instigated by two different methods:

1. The liquidation is ordered by the Court

2. The liquidation is initiated by the Shareholders of the Company

Court ordered liquidation

The first step is for a creditor of the company to issue a statutory demand, demanding repayment of the sum outstanding. This triggers specific timeframes for the company to either apply to have the demand set aside or to make arrangements for payment of the demand.

If no application or payment is made, the creditor can apply to the court to have the company liquidated. Liquidation proceedings will be served on the company at its registered office. If no appearance is made on the company’s behalf at the court hearing, it can be expected that the company will be liquidated.

Because key documents are issued to the company’s registered office, it is important that this is an address where you are able to receive such notices. Failing to do so can result in your company being liquidated without you even being aware that the process has been initiated.

Once proceedings are issued, the shareholders may still resolve to appoint a liquidator but have a limited timeframe of 10 working days to do so without seeking the approval of the petitioning creditor.

Shareholder initiated liquidations

Shareholders of a company can resolve to have liquidators appointed by passing a special resolution (requiring 75% of shareholders to agree). After recognising that a company is insolvent and unable to trade out of that position, the most prudent action to prevent potential breaches of directors’ duties is for the shareholders to liquidate the company.

Once a company is insolvent, the directors have duties not only to act in the best interests of the company but also to consider the interests of the company’s creditors. In the building industry, care needs to be taken that completion of a particular project (for the benefit of the customer) isn’t being undertaken to the detriment of the company creditors.

If you have concerns regarding your ability to pay your company debts, or you have further questions about the liquidation process please contact Rodgers Reidy on 0800 773439 for a free consultation with one of their Licensed Insolvency Practitioners.

Lynda Smart is a director at Rodgers Reidy. She is a Chartered Accountant and licensed insolvency practitioner with over 20 years’ experience in this specialisation. Rodgers Reidy is an Insolvency, Restructuring & Forensic firm with Auckland, Christchurch and International offices. Find out more at

New Zealand Insolvency Statistics

FRAMOLOGY PLACEMAKERS

SMART THINKING, MANUFACTURED

PlaceMakers Framology is our new initiative designed to help increase the R-value of your new build, making New Zealand’s homes drier and warmer.

When you get your frame & truss with us, we can quickly find opportunities to streamline the construction design, increase the insulation in wall framing, and also provide you with a detailed R-value report to save your business time and money.

For more information scan the QR code

Getting good returns on your digital investments?

Return on investment (ROI) is a fairly simple concept: what are you getting out of what you’re putting in? Often used to refer to monetary investments and their direct or indirect payoffs, it can also be considered in a broader sense. Your investment might be time, effort, money, or other resources – whatever it is, how is it returning value?

Understanding and being able to measure or anticipate ROI is crucial to good decision-making and planning for construction and the trades. When choosing a job management platform, many business owners consider only the price tag. However, the ROI is a more accurate measure of whether or not the purchase price is worth it.

When you’re considering investing in job management software (JMS), here are some of the non-financial returns you might like to think about to help you make the right decision.

Time saved

A good JMS platform will, above all, create efficiency in your operations. On a larger scale, it can reduce labour costs and also free up valuable time that can be spent on the tools or on governance and growth. They say time is money, and it certainly can be – if you spend it right!

Increased productivity

When your business is running smoothly, without the disruptions of checking details, misunderstandings between team members, and double handling of information, your people will be more productive. The link between productivity and profit is clear: more work done in less time is a fairly easy equation to solve.

Reduced errors

Mistakes are costly, particularly in a construction scenario where scheduling can be tight. Having to fix a job that wasn’t done properly first time round eats into time that should be spent elsewhere and can also use up extra materials. At their worst, serious errors may mean hours spent on paperwork, reputation, time off for injured employees, and potentially even legal issues. Having the right information and equipment available to get the job done can greatly reduce the likelihood of mistakes happening, and a good JMS contributes to that.

Accurate financial planning

Insights and reporting, common features of the best job management platforms, provide business owners with very valuable information. This can include metrics such as profit margins per job or job type, overall revenue, staff performance, and more. Knowledge is power, and these metrics can help business owners strategically plan for the future, create cashflow forecasts, and generally make informed decisions to grow and improve.

Customer satisfaction

When a business is organised and on top of things like scheduling, invoicing, and customer communication, it truly shows. Happy customers are more likely to recommend your services! A single satisfied and well-connected person is perhaps the best marketing tool in the entire toolbox.

When choosing a job management platform, many business owners consider only the price tag. However, the return on investment is a more accurate measure of whether or not the purchase price is worth it.

Investing wisely in your software

ROI should be front of mind when it comes to choosing the job management app that will help you to run your business. Part of the process must be consideration of the challenges you’re experiencing and how much they are costing you in time or money. Are you losing revenue due to scheduling issues and double bookings? Finding yourself unable to plan effectively for the future? Receiving a lot of customer complaints and seeing your reputation suffer from it? These are all problems that can be addressed, if not solved, with the right digital tools.

There is also a real risk of over-investing when it comes to JMS, and this is a large part of the reason that it’s so important to choose your platform wisely. Many businesses are swayed by the bells and whistles of a software that can do it all. However, smaller businesses or those with simpler operations or a narrower scope of services may not require the Ferrari features. Achieving the best ROI means finding the software that does what you need it to do, and not too much more. Often, optimising a more affordable software and properly training your staff on how to use it is the smartest course of action.

The experienced FreeUp team are experts in helping businesses make the most of their digital tools. Whether that means reviewing your systems and choosing a new JMS platform, advising you on how to better use the one you have, or providing ongoing troubleshooting and training, they can ensure that trades SMEs are getting maximum return on their tech investment.

Kelli 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

Meet your Presidents

The New Zealand Certified Builders Association (NZCB) is divided into 22 regions throughout New Zealand. Each region is led by a President and supported by a local committee.

The regional Presidents role is voluntary and includes being a go-to person or a voice on behalf of their region to communicate any industry concerns or business issues they may have. Presidents are available to speak on the regions’ behalf to NZCB management and the NZCB Board.

BAY OF ISLANDS/FAR NORTH

Josh Alley

Member since 2012

President since 2024 021 445 949 boi.president@nzcb.nz

AUCKLAND

Paul Webster-Young Member since 2012

President since 2024 021 298 1124 auckland.president@nzcb.nz

TAURANGA DISTRICTS

Mike Way

Member since 2000

President since 2022 021 381 931 tauranga.president@nzcb.nz

ROTORUA

Erin Pope

Member since 2004

President since 2017 027 498 2101 rotorua.president@nzcb.nz

HAWKE’S BAY

Michael Botrill Member since 2023

President since 2023 027 807 3640 hawkesbay.president@nzcb.nz

As you may or may not be aware who your President is, below is a list of our 22 Presidents and their contact details should you need to get in touch with them.

WHANGĀREI

Greg Silvester

Regional Partner since 2012 President since 2023 021 122 6546 whangarei.president@nzcb.nz

WAIKATO

Shaun Begovich Member since 2005

President since 2024 021 605 682 waikato.president@nzcb.nz

WHAKATĀNE

Hamish Galloway Member since 2001 President since 2015 027 203 9731 whakatane.president@nzcb.nz

TAUPŌ GISBORNE

Lachie Monteith Member since 2008 President since 2022 021 845 992 taupo.president@nzcb.nz

Brendan Fry Member since 2008

President since 2022 027 244 5585 gisborne.president@nzcb.nz

TARANAKI

Chad Niwa

Member since 2017

President since 2022 027 488 9475 taranaki.president@nzcb.nz

WAIRARAPA

Paul Bashford Member since 2013

President since 2015 027 270 5664 wairarapa.president@nzcb.nz

NELSON BAYS

Dave Gunter

Member since 2000

President since 2018 021 529 418 nelson.president@nzcb.nz

WEST COAST

Richard Poff

Member since 2008

President since 2022 021 486 666 westcoast.president@nzcb.nz

MID

& SOUTH

CANTERBURY

Jonny Rive

Member since 2017

President since 2022 027 678 4222 midandsouthcanterbury.president@nzcb.nz

CENTRAL OTAGO

Mark Duffy

Member since 2009

President since 2022 021 766 851 centralotago.president@nzcb.nz

Craig Whitton

Member since 2010

President since 2019 027 222 4886 manawatu.president@nzcb.nz

Brian Ludlow Member since 1998

President since 2024 | 027 458 3569

Adrian Reid Member since 2010

President since 2024 | 021 384 111 wellington.president@nzcb.nz

WELLINGTON MANAWATŪ BLENHEIM/MARLBOROUGH

Mark Thompson

Member since 2022

President since 2024 021 074 4245 blenheim.president@nzcb.nz

CANTERBURY

Tony Lindley

Member since 2014

President since 2022 027 231 4744 canterbury.president@nzcb.nz

OTAGO

Sacha Gray Member since 2005

President since 2016 021 126 4268 otago.president@nzcb.nz

SOUTHLAND

Will Kennedy Member since 2009

President since 2022 027 275 4683 southland.president@nzcb.nz

Looking for leads? Step up your sales game!

Running a business requires more than just great craftsmanship; you need to be an effective salesperson too. A proactive sales approach can make all the difference in helping you secure new projects and maintain a steady flow of work.

Embrace the sales mindset

Sales are a critical part of your business, even when you’re busy. Consistently dedicating time to generating leads will help you build a robust sales funnel that can withstand downturns. This effort will pay off as your reputation grows and leads to strong word-ofmouth referrals.

Make time for sales

Sales don’t just happen; they require time and effort. Establish a routine by setting aside time every day to follow up on recommendations, referrals and enquiries. Don’t just wait for leads to come to you – reach out to prospects in your community and make your presence known.

• Networking is a great way to get referrals. Join a group like TNG or BNI; build relationships with professionals in related industries including architects, electricians and plumbers; and leverage your NZCB membership to gain exposure and make connections within the industry.

• Don’t underestimate the power of personal connections. Let friends and family know about your business and ask them to spread the word.

• Share your business details in community Facebook groups, making sure to check each group’s rules on this sort of business promotion first. Ask friends who are active on social media to engage with your posts and respond to community requests for recommendations.

• Introduce yourself to potential clients via email. A personalised message can help you stand out and create a connection.

Promote your business

If you see marketing as nothing more than a cost, you could be missing the opportunity and value it creates. It’s generally recommended to invest 5% of revenue into marketing for continued growth and improved profits. In fact, companies that allocate a higher percentage of their revenue to marketing often enjoy significantly larger returns.

• Have professionally designed branding, including eye-catching site and vehicle signage, and flyers that you can maildrop in each area you work in.

• Regularly update your website with completed projects that demonstrate your expertise and the quality of your work.

• Invest in professional photography for key projects.

• Ask for reviews from satisfied clients to boost your online presence.

• List your business on digital platforms like Houzz and Neighbourly, as well as paid networks like Archipro.

Build a customer database

Every business should keep a contact list… and use it! Automate email responses to website leads, and use email to stay in touch with past clients, industry professionals and potential clients who weren’t ready to start their projects.

Get support to grow your business

Running a building business is demanding, and while some sales activities require your personal touch, it’s worth getting help for everything else. If tasks like admin, book-keeping or marketing aren’t in your skill set – or you simply need to free up some time –consider outsourcing to professionals. You can’t be an expert at everything, so focus on what you do best and delegate the rest.

By becoming an effective salesperson for your business, you’ll ensure a steady stream of projects and set yourself up for long-term success. It takes time, effort and the right strategies, but the rewards are well worth it.

Amanda Chisholm, Director, My Smart Office and National Partner (Starter) of NZCB. Amanda runs a successful residential building company with her husband and uses her 20+ years’ experience in bookkeeping, administration, customer communication and sales to help builders manage their accounts and administration, increase revenue and gain time. www.mysmartoffice.co.nz

Extended Play

Over the years, the old 1940s state house had been tinkered with and it worked well for the family – for a while. As the kids grew, the home couldn’t keep up. The home lacked connection to the outdoors, so the family sought to rectify this and reshape the layout around the kids’ neurodiverse needs while retaining the building’s existing envelope.

Location: New Plymouth Architect: Gibbons Architects Manufacturer: Altherm Taranaki

See how they met the brief in the full story, video and podcast online nowAltherm.co.nz/extended-play

Adjudication helps resolve disputes quickly and cheaply

So, you’ve got deadlines up to your eyeballs, you’re working long hours, but you’re still owed money. What are your options for ‘getting blood out of a stone’ when you still have to maintain business as usual? Adjudication could be a viable option, and in this article, we explore this process.

What is adjudication?

Adjudication involves a speedy decision from an independent decision-maker called an adjudicator. This enables construction disputes, especially payment claims, to be resolved swiftly and effectively. The whole purpose of the process is to maintain cashflow within the industry by providing quick and efficient resolution. It is a ‘pay now, argue later’ regime, designed to keep business moving.

How it works

Adjudication takes place under the Construction Contracts Act 2002 (CCA). The process typically takes a few weeks from start to finish, which is much faster than court processes. The key steps involved are:

1. Notice of adjudication: The ‘claimant’ issues a notice of adjudication to the ‘respondent’. This notice outlines the details of the claim, including the amount sought and the grounds for the claim. The respondent can provide a response or defence to the claim, and make a counterclaim.

2. Appointment of adjudicator: Both parties may agree on an adjudicator. If no agreement is reached, the claimant can apply to a nominating authority, such as the Building Disputes Tribunal (BDT), for the appointment of an adjudicator.

3. Adjudication begins: Adjudication occurs based on the written claims and response and other documents, and without hearings. All submissions are made in writing. The adjudicator carefully reviews the documents and submissions from both parties and issues a binding and enforceable decision. This decision is known as the ‘adjudication determination’.

4. Enforcement: Once the adjudication determination is issued, the unsuccessful party must comply with the decision. For example, if a payment is ordered, it must be paid within two working days after the decision is received.

If a decision is not complied with, the successful party can enforce it in the courts. This is the case even if the respondent does not participate in the process or only participates in a limited way. Quite often we see a respondent that does not engage in the process and then ends up with a determination that goes against them.

If a decision is not complied with, the successful party can enforce it in the courts. This is the case even if the respondent does not participate in the process or only participates in a limited way.

Key benefits

Adjudication is now the most popular way to resolve construction disputes due to:

• Speed: Adjudication provides a quick resolution, ensuring that disputes do not delay ongoing projects. Once a determination is made, the amount has to be paid within two working days.

• Cost-efficiency: Compared to traditional litigation or arbitration, adjudication is usually much more cost-effective. Given the challenges currently faced by the construction industry, adjudication is a cornerstone for maintaining cashflow in the industry.

• Expertise: Adjudicators are selected for their experience and industry-specific knowledge, ensuring decisions are informed and made with the right legal and technical insights.

• Backed by legislation: The time limits for the various procedural steps are fixed by the CCA, and a respondent cannot delay, avoid, or avert the process, preventing ‘slippage’.

About us

BDT is a nominating authority under the CCA and can help you determine whether your dispute can be resolved through adjudication or is better suited to other dispute resolution methods. For more information visit www.buildingdisputestribunal.co.nz.

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.

Alexander Lyall , Research Clerk at The ADR Centre BDT is part of the ADR Centre. BDT provides guidance to parties and their advisers as to the most appropriate dispute resolution process for their dispute. Call (09) 486 7143 or 0508 284 534, email registrar@buildingdisputestribunal.co.nz or visit www.buildingdisputestribunal.co.nz

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Survey reveals members are cutting insurance cover

We loved seeing many of our clients, and meeting new ones, at the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) AGM, Conference & Expo in June.

During the event, we ran a short pulse survey at our stand to get a sense of how members are currently feeling about their insurance cover – especially regarding increased costs. Here we share the results, along with some advice on managing some of the key issues that arose.

Cutting your cover is a very risky game. If another big weather event hit, or even a fire or major property damage, you would end up being more out of pocket by not being insured or by being underinsured.

Managing rising insurance costs

In our April/May article we touched on the fact that we anticipated insurance premiums would go up significantly this year, and unfortunately that has proven to be the case.

These increased costs, along with the general costs of doing business, have clearly started to bite with 48% of those responding to our survey saying that the rising costs are causing them to reduce or cut their insurance cover.

While we appreciate the need to reduce costs, especially when revenue is down, cutting your cover is a very risky game. If another big weather event hit, or even a fire or major property damage, you would end up being more out of pocket by not being insured or by being underinsured.

Rather than reducing cover, there are other options available to you such as:

• Spreading your payments over 10-12 months with premium funding, rather than having to pay your policy premium upfront.

• Selecting a higher policy excess, which will reduce your overall premium.

• Asking about multiple policy discounts or consolidating all your policies under one insurer to get a better deal.

The best thing you can do is talk to your insurance broker. They can look at other policy options that won’t compromise your cover, along with what you can do to help mitigate your risks and therefore reduce your exposures.

Do you have the right level of cover?

We asked members whether they were confident they had the right level of cover for all their business assets such as tools, vehicle, building supplies etc.

While 68% of the respondents said they were sure their cover was at the right level, 12% said no or 20% were unsure.

Having the confidence that you have the right cover is extremely important, as it is of course too late to increase it if you suddenly need to make a claim.

An insurance broker can help to check that you have the right policy for the needs of your business. It doesn’t cost anything to engage one and they can shop around to find you the best deal, so you have the right cover at the right price.

Bringing the value

In fact, 25% of those completing the survey said that the biggest value an insurance broker brings is to ensure you have the right insurance cover.

Other benefits they noted were “advocating for me if I need to make a claim” (23%) and “being a single point of contact across all insurances” (19%).

We’re here to help ease the pain

Thanks to everyone who completed the survey and gave us their insights.

We understand that many businesses are doing it tough right now, so we’re here to help make insurance as painless as possible.

If you would like a no-obligation review of your insurances, give us a call on 0800 644 444.

With Yale Home App

SCAN TO LEARN MORE

How do I get more time?

Don’t have enough hours in the day to get everything done? Sadly, you can’t create more time but you can use the time you have more effectively.

In 1926 Henry Ford figured out that working more than a 40-hour week yielded only a small increase in productivity. The more you work, the less productive you get. So how do you get through everything you need to in 40 hours or less?

The key question you need to ask is “where does my time add the most value to my business?” Answer that and try to spend as much of your time as you can focussing on those things. But what should you do with all the tasks you’ve identified as not adding value to your business?

Here are some ideas, in order of priority:

1. Don’t do it! Be serious with yourself about whether it needs to be done at all.

2. Put it off. If it doesn’t pop back up, it probably didn’t need doing in the first place. Procrastination can be a good thing . . .

3. Get someone else to do it. Delegation is the most important skill for a business leader. Your team member might be less efficient than you at doing it, but you can know spend your time doing the things you know will make more of a difference to your business.

4. Do the least that you can. In software development, this is called a Minimum Viable Product. In other words, what is the least amount of work you can do to meet the minimum need? Often that will end up being enough to get the job done, so any additional effort is actually wasted.

5. Do the task more efficiently. Look around to see whether there are tools or aids that can help you leverage your time. And remember, try to only handle things once if you can.

An example of a Minimum Viable Product could be a client asking you to price two options. Get them to pick the one that they like the best, then price that. It may be they are happy and go with that so you never need to price option 2.

A good example of doing tasks more efficiently is approving invoices for things I commission. When an invoice hits my email inbox, I forward it to Xero, load the payment at the bank, then delete the invoice. That means I only have to deal with it and think about it once.

YourQS falls into the “get someone else to do it” category but our business is built around “do it more efficiently”. We’ve invested in developing software tools that make us more efficient as well as more accurate.

We’ve also taken to heart what Henry Ford learnt and have implemented “Rostered Days Off” for our team where they get a paid day off every fortnight. We’ve found that doing this hasn’t harmed our output and the staff appreciate having a day during the normal working week to catch up on things. This is part of why we’ve been shortlisted as one of the “best places to work” in New Zealand based on an anonymous survey of our staff. Nick Clements, YourQS Member NZ Institute of Quantity Surveyors and NZCB National Partner (Starter). Nick joined the construction sector in 1993 and couldn’t understand why the architect’s computer didn’t talk to estimating systems. Frustrated by disconnected systems, he created software to bridge the gap, growing YourQS into a 16-person team providing residential estimates using the resulting software.

Who’s your customer?

The six elements of a successful marketing and sales process

Marketing and sales can be a confusing area of business, especially if you have not had training in basic marketing strategy. Many digital agencies out there also seem to revel in making it even more complicated and confusing, and it becomes hard to know where to spend your money and just how effective it is.

That is why I like to take things back to basics with my clients before they spend their hard-earned dollars on the latest digital lead generation activity. Just like building a solid house you need to start at the foundations, before you worry about the cladding and what colour it will be.

Those foundation issues are primarily around who will be your ideal target customer, how they think and feel, and then how your clear value proposition emotionally aligns with your ideal customer.

I have developed a one-page summary of what I believe the marketing and sales process framework should look like – see the table on the right You’ll see we don’t start talking about lead generation activities until line four of six.

Lines one through three cost basically nothing but will ensure your lead generation and sales activities will gain maximum traction when the rubber hits the road.

Word-of-mouth still has an important role to play, but in these days of increased competition it needs to be supported by solid strategy and a complementary range of activities that will work more proactively for you.

If you’re not happy with the number or quality of project leads coming into your business and think it’s time to review your marketing plan, or even start to develop one, I encourage you to reach out.

We can do a low-cost Marketing Audit of your business and help you put a plan together to make 2025 a better year for you.

No longer is just using word-of-mouth an acceptable marketing strategy. Don’t get me wrong, word-of-mouth still has an important role to play, but in these days of increased competition it needs to be supported by solid strategy and a complementary range of activities that will work more proactively for you.

Reach out to me at andy@tradescoach.co.nz to get the ball rolling on your marketing audit and makeover.

The one-page marketing plan guide

Who?

Why?

Who is your ideal customer? What are their main fears and frustrations, wants and desires?

Why should your target customer pick you over your competitors? What is your unique selling point?

What?

Where?

How?

What is your key selling message – your key value proposition that will help your client get what they want?

Which promotional channels are the most effective to get your value proposition message in front of your target customers?

How do you convert a marketing lead into a customer? What is your system to build ‘know, like and trust’?

Share

What is your referral system to help spread your message and make your customers contact your sales force?

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.

Pivot or perish: How to survive a recession

The New Zealand construction industry is facing one of its most challenging periods in recent memory and construction businesses must think strategically to not only survive but also thrive.

To succeed in this environment, companies need to expand their offerings, engage with clients in new ways, and work smarter, not harder. Here’s your guide to achieving this.

1. Map the current landscape

The first step is to gain a clear understanding of the current economic landscape. Start by assessing the key factors that affect your business and identify how these trends are impacting your operations, client demand, and overall profitability.

This mapping process is crucial because it allows you to see where your business stands and to identify the specific challenges and opportunities that are relevant to you. By understanding the broader context, you can begin to pinpoint the areas where your business needs to adapt or shift focus.

For example, building decks, sheds, outbuildings, fences, or offering renovations. Consider any gaps in the market and whether your business is well positioned to fill those gaps with innovative solutions. A successful pivot could open up new revenue streams and help your business thrive despite the economic downturn.

3. Review your client engagement strategies

In addition to diversifying services, construction companies must re-evaluate their target markets and how they engage with potential clients. The recession may have shifted who the decision makers are or what segments of the market are most active. Now is the time to reassess who your ideal clients are and how best to reach them.

Digital marketing, networking, and leveraging industry events are all crucial for getting in front of the right people. Additionally, now is the time to focus on referrals. Engage with past clients, colleagues, and industry contacts to generate new leads.

4. How to apply these strategies to your business

Now you have a sense of the strategic shifts necessary to succeed in this challenging time, it’s essential to apply these concepts directly to your business. Start by reflecting on the number one challenge your company is currently facing – whether it’s cashflow, customer acquisition, or competition. Identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (a SWOT analysis), and then consider how you can leverage your strengths to exploit new opportunities.

Next, develop a concrete action plan. This should outline specific steps you will take to diversify your services, reach new clients, and better engage your existing client base. The goal is not to work harder but to work smarter – focusing your efforts on the areas that will yield the best results. By controlling the key aspects of your business, you can navigate these tough times with strategic precision and position your company for long-term success.

Next step

2. Is strategic pivoting right for you?

Once you have a clear view of the current landscape, consider whether strategic pivoting is the right move for your business. A strategic pivot involves shifting your focus to new products, services, or markets in response to changing circumstances.

To determine whether you need to pivot, evaluate the skills and resources you already have. For instance, if your team consists of experienced carpenters, could they apply their expertise to new types of projects that are in demand?

If you’re ready to take action, join our upcoming workshops on NZ Construction Industry Pivoting and Thriving. These hands-on sessions will equip you with the tools and strategies you need to adapt and grow during these challenging times. Contact us today (09 215 3378 or www.excc.co.nz/executive-coach-booking/) to find out more and to secure your spot.

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%.

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Health and safety reforms

After ten years of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA) being in force, the government has announced it is going to be consulting on reforming health and safety law and regulations.

The changes are a response to what the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has described as “an outdated and incomplete regulatory framework”.

The ministry has previously highlighted the need for reform in areas where workers operate machinery, use equipment, or work at heights – situations which account for almost 80% of New Zealand’s work-related deaths (roughly double Australia’s rates).

Minister Brooke van Velden explained – “The health and safety system needs to be clear, sensible, proportionate, and effective. The steps businesses and workers take to protect health and safety should be considered appropriate and meaningful, rather than just another tick-box exercise”.

Contrary to overseas trends, the changing WorkSafe focus marks a shift away from investigating ‘psychosocial risks’ and mental harm. However, the requirement to support wellbeing is firmly embedded in employment law obligations, and rolling this back in the health and safety space won’t change employer duties in this respect.

Proposed changes to HSWA

While specific changes to HSWA are yet to be proposed, the government has identified five key areas of interest:

• Ensuring businesses are in the best position to identify health and safety issues;

• Investigating whether the law strikes the right balance between flexibility and certainty;

• Improving worker engagement and participation in health and safety issues;

• Ensuring the effective operation of health and safety regulators; and

• Determining whether the holistic health and safety system is meeting its objectives.

If you’d like to make submissions on this through the consultation period, you can do that via the MBIE website before the deadline of 31 October 2024.

Changes to WorkSafe

There are also changes being made within WorkSafe, including a large restructuring with 113 roles disestablished in November 2023.

In addition, WorkSafe launched a refreshed strategy in June, which puts three types of harm at the forefront of health and safety investigations:

• Acute harm – serious injury, illness, or death from a single event;

• Chronic harm – serious injury, illness, or death from continuous work or repeated events; and

• Catastrophic harm – serious illness, injury or death affecting multiple people.

The refreshed strategy is the first of three publications expected to describe WorkSafe’s future direction, the second of which will be an “operating plan”. The operating plan will identify the outcomes WorkSafe aims to achieve, and will set out the priorities, initiatives, activities and resource allocation they will undertake to achieve these outcomes. WorkSafe also intends to release a functional model to define the key functions required to deliver the strategy effectively.

What does this mean for business?

Contrary to overseas trends, the changing WorkSafe focus marks a shift away from investigating ‘psychosocial risks’ and mental harm. However, the requirement to support wellbeing is firmly embedded in employment law obligations, and rolling this back in the health and safety space won’t change employer duties in this respect.

Consultation on changes to HSWA is in the early stages, and we have yet to see how government policy will translate into legislation. Stay tuned for more information as changes are introduced.

Disclaimer: We remind you that while this article provides commentary on employment law, health and safety and immigration topics, it should not be used as a substitute for legal or professional advice for specific situations. Please seek legal advice from your lawyer for any questions specific to your workplace.

Kate Ashcroft , Partner, of Copeland Ashcroft Workplace Lawyers Copeland Ashcroft Workplace Lawyers operate the NZCB Employment helpline, offering specialist advice, representation and support across employment, immigration and health and safety law, to businesses throughout New Zealand. Call 0800 354 821 or visit www.copelandashcroft.co.nz

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Work-related harm in New Zealand

WorkSafe recently published a report on workplace harm and risk in New Zealand. The whopping 106-page report is packed with valuable information on the current state of workplace safety, and highlights areas that need improvement to create a safer environment for everyone.

Our certified Health and Safety Advisor Evette has gone through the report and extracted the stuff you need to know, with advice on the areas you should focus on to make the biggest improvements to your workplace safety.

New Zealand trends in work-related fatalities and injuries

Most work-related fatalities and serious injuries happen in just a few industries. Unfortunately, construction makes the list, as does agriculture, forestry and fishing, manufacturing, and transport.

Over the past two decades, there has been a significant decline in the rate of fatalities and serious non-fatal injuries, with the fatality rate dropping by more than half. However, the pace of improvement has slowed down in the last ten years.

Between 2017 and 2021, New Zealand’s work-related fatality rate was still 40% higher than Australia’s, even after taking into account economic activity and employment differences.

Although the comparison with Australia is worrying, it shows us there is potential to improve our fatality rates in New Zealand.

The graph below shows the number of injuries that resulted in more than a week off work from 2022 to 2023. The injury rate accounts for the number of people working in the industry, rather than the total number of injuries.

Construction has the highest rate of all sectors. In other words, a construction worker heading out the door for the day has a higher chance of injury than someone working in a factory, driving a truck, working on a farm, or any other industry.

Types of injury

We can group workplace injuries into five main categories:

1. Sudden accidents: These are injuries that happen unexpectedly, often in industries like construction or manufacturing where the risk is high.

2. Airborne risks and carcinogens: This is exposure to harmful dust or other contaminants in the air. In New Zealand, over half of the workforce is exposed to at least one carcinogen. Unfortunately, in some industries, workers face multiple risks, and safety measures aren’t always properly enforced, leading to serious health issues over time.

3. Musculo-skeletal risks: Jobs that involve heavy lifting, awkward positions, long periods of standing, or exposure to loud noise often lead to these kinds of injuries. These risks are especially common in physically demanding jobs.

4. Work environment and organisation risks: Things like shift work and extreme temperatures can cause both physical and mental stress for workers.

5. Psychosocial risks: High work demands, lack of job control, and negative behaviours like bullying or harassment are common across many industries.

The path forward

WorkSafe found that most serious injuries and deaths occur in just a few industries. To make these workplaces safer, it’s important to have strong safety measures in place. This means having better safety rules (and enforcing them), providing proper training and resources for workers, and building a culture that values safety.

Here are some ways you can proactively create a safety culture on your site today:

Lead by example: Take the initiative in promoting safety. Regularly demonstrate safe practices and make safety a priority in your daily tasks. Your actions will encourage others to follow suit.

Encourage open communication: Create an environment where everyone feels comfortable discussing safety concerns. Encourage team members to share their thoughts and ideas on how to improve safety on-site.

Regular safety meetings: Schedule regular safety meetings to discuss any potential hazards, recent incidents, and preventive measures. Use these meetings as a platform to reinforce the importance of communication and teamwork.

Encourage reporting: Make it easy and non-intimidating for workers to report safety issues or concerns. Let them know their input is valued and will be acted upon.

Collaborate on solutions: Involve workers and contractors in finding solutions to safety challenges. By working together, you can come up with practical and effective ways to improve safety on-site.

Set clear expectations: Clearly communicate safety expectations and procedures to all workers and contractors. Ensure everyone knows their role in maintaining a safe work environment.

Evaluate and improve: Continuously assess your safety communication practices. Identify areas where communication might be lacking and take steps to strengthen it.

When we all understand the biggest causes of work-related harm, we can work together to create a future where every worker in New Zealand has a safe and healthy place to work.

For more information

Check out our Fostering a Culture of Safety blog: www.hazardco.com/nz/blog/fostering-a-safety-culture-on-site/ or download our Simple Guide to Toolbox Meetings: www.hazardco.com/nz/toolbox-meeting-guide/

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) wants to hear about your experiences with the work health and safety system - how you think it’s working now, what you think works well, and what you think should change. We will be submitting our feedback and we encourage you to share your experiences too! www.mbie.govt.nz/have-your-say/work-health-and-safety

Breaking unhelpful thinking cycles

Being a builder or a tradie can be challenging at times. Everyone has days on-site when nothing seems to go right. This can lead to a downward spiral where unhelpful thoughts and emotions reinforce each other and make a difficult situation even worse.

The good news is that we can change the way we think to be more helpful, while still acknowledging the difficulties we are facing. This is possible using a mental fitness skill called Catch It, Check It, Change It where you train your brain to have more constructive thoughts.

Here’s how it works:

Catch It

When you get upset about a situation, imagine standing outside yourself and hitting the pause button. Take a deep breath. Name the emotions you are experiencing, e.g. anger, frustration, feeling worked up, and notice any impulses to behave in a certain way. Now see if you can ‘catch’ your thought.

Check It

Now you’ve caught your thought, examine it and decide if there is a more helpful interpretation. Try to be curious about what you are thinking, rather than assuming you have all the facts. We often decide that the thought we’re having is the one and only reality, whereas there are almost always a number of interpretations about what’s happening.

Helpful questions to ask yourself are: Is this thought really true? Is it helping me achieve my goal or solve my problem? Is it worth it in terms of how it is making me feel or behave?

When you get upset about a situation, imagine standing outside yourself and hitting the pause button. Take a deep breath.

Change It

If the answer is ‘no’, then change the thought for a more helpful one. More helpful thoughts will lead to easier emotions and calmer behaviours, which will help you to problem-solve and achieve your goals. Even if you discover that what you’re thinking is true, at least you have given yourself some breathing space to think more clearly about the actions you need to take.

Expert insight

Here’s what Live Well Build Well wellbeing expert Prof. Grant Schofield has to say.

“Negative thoughts and feelings are part of a normal human experience of the world. You can’t avoid them, but you can better manage them by being more psychologically flexible.”

“Catch It, Check It, Change It helps us get better at understanding how our thoughts affect our emotions and behaviours, and ensures we are less prone to depression, anxiety and angry outbursts. It’s also good for our performance and productivity, stops us getting bogged down mentally and makes it easier to make decisions under pressure. That’s how you keep moving towards your best life.”

Be your best self

“I used to worry too much about everything and that was putting a big strain on my life. What got me out of it was starting the day training at the gym. It helped take those worries away. I’m at the gym most mornings at 5am. I’ve got an awesome crew there – a group of eight dads – and we’re able to support each other, train with each other and encourage each other.

The boys will just ring up randomly to see how you’re doing, how your day’s going, how life’s going. That’s been amazing because most men bottle things up and I was like that myself but now we can share our problems. Once you get a training routine and a group like that going, it just clears your mind and frees you up. You’re mentally better and you can focus better.”

Find out more

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

Richie Retimana, builder and business owner, Cornerstone Living.

Building a culture of workplace wellness

We all know that the construction industry faces its fair share of challenges when it comes to workplace wellbeing.

Stay on top of the mental and physical wellbeing of your team with the help of the EAP Learning Services team. Our dedicated workplace educators provide support that is tailored to the construction industry and can improve the health and wellbeing of your people.

We use data-driven insights from across our network to identify concerns and provide the right tools and resources to support managers to resolve issues before they become bigger problems.

When your team feel supported they are more likely to be engaged and motivated. This can lead to higher job satisfaction and better performance on-site. Providing wellbeing services can also help with retention by creating a supportive work environment.

Whether you have team of five or 5000 we can help. We can provide a range of resources and techniques to ensure staff are engaged, including e-Learning, webinars, seminars, or one-on-one training, all of which is geared to the unique nature of your industry.

Investing in wellbeing services contributes to a positive workplace culture, enhancing the company’s reputation and making you more attractive to potential recruits and clients.

Our aftercare programme means that managers have the tools and resources to continue to support teams, long after we have gone. The Learning Services team can provide support on a wide range of topics including:

• Relationships

• Sleep fatigue and burnout

• Change management

• Mental health for managers

• Cultural intelligence

• Budgeting and money

• Food and mood

• Quitting smoking

• Anti-bullying and harassment

• Emotional regulation

• Building trust in the workplace

• LGBTQIA+ culture at work

• Imposter syndrome (IS) and self-compassion

• Coaching and mentoring programmes

• Support to return to work

• Trust in the workplace

• Wellbeing for people leaders

• Understanding anxiety

• Building a fulfilling retirement

• Accountable communication

• Cardiovascular health

• Crisis management

• Grief counselling

• Mindfulness

• Stress management

• Self-care and resilience

For more information

Contact our Learning Services team today at learning@eapservices.co.nz and find out how we can support your workplace.

NZCB Auckland Education Day 2024 AUCKLAND

The Auckland Committee recently hosted the 2024 Education Day at Go Media Stadium (formerly Mount Smart Stadium) in July. It was another successful day filled with quality education from our partners and suppliers.

Last year, the Auckland Committee held the first in-person Education Day, themed ‘Navigating Industry Changes’ since 2019. Due to COVID restrictions, the previous two LBP events had been held, very successfully, online in front of large virtual crowds.

This year’s Education Day, continuing the National Conference theme ‘Building The Future’ saw 20 speakers across 32 classrooms and trade stands. Our builders were able to move from classroom to classroom as well as engage with trade stands, learning about what the future is looking like, across the topics of Innovative systems, Improved Performance, Sustainable Practices, Digital Technology and Health & Safety.

I’d like to thank all those who managed to take some time out to attend. There were some great presentations and innovation, and a perfect opportunity for members to work on their business and do some networking. Thanks to all my committee for another successful event.

Paul Webster-Young NZCB President Auckland

Coach the Crew

Becoming an effective workplace trainer

Join us in Taranaki, Wellington and Nelson this October for the NZCB “Coach the Crew” programme.

This essential training is designed to enhance workplace training quality and improve learner outcomes. Key components include:

• Understanding Adult Learners: Gain insights into different generational learning styles and effective relationshipbuilding techniques.

• Universal Design for Learning: Learn strategies to cater to diverse learning needs and remove barriers to education.

• Assessment Practices: Discover practical methods for assessing and verifying workplace skills.

• Positive Learning Culture: Promote a supportive environment with growth opportunities and constructive feedback.

• Equip yourself to deliver high-quality instruction and foster a positive and productive learning environment. Sessions are worth 6 LBP points.

The course made me realise I need to work harder at passing on the baton and allowing others to take the lead.

Proudly sponsored by:

The sessions run 8am-4pm and will be held on the following dates:

A well-structured and thoroughly researched course.

Meet your presenter: Marcia Hintz Marcia has more than thirty years working on educational initiatives involving learners of all ages, with a particular focus in recent years on vocational training across a range of industries. She specialises in the design and delivery of Adult Education, Leadership, Health and Safety and Professional Development, with experience in the NZQA Framework as well as workplace training, assessing and verification.

Taranaki 3rd October Wellington 15th October Nelson 17th October

Events Calendar

ITM LBP Day

23 OCT 11 & 16 OCT

Palmerston North and Auckland

ITM is once again offering a full day of LBP Training to all builders. Get the opportunity to receive 6 elective points in one day of interactive learning! Walk away with a whole lot of goodies and a certificate making it easy to log your learning activity. Not only do you get help with your LBP Skills maintenance, you also get a FREE lunch, smoko, coffee AND the chance to win some awesome spot prizes!

Register at www.itm.co.nz/for-the-trade/licensed-building-practitioners/lbp-training-days-2024

Build out waste by design

2:00pm to 6:00pm | Auckland

Register at www.sustainable.org.nz/learn/events/build-out-waste-by-design/ 15 OCT

Want to know how to design out waste at every stage of the construction process? This practical seminar will explore emerging technologies, circular products, and effective processes that can help reduce waste even before you start building. Hear about real-world challenges, opportunities and success stories and be inspired to build better. 15% discount for NZCB members; use the code NZCB at checkout.

Superhome Movement Webinar –Super Structure

12:00pm | Online

Every Superhome starts with a Super Structure, which includes floors, walls, roofs, and windows. Learn about warm roofs, walls, and floors, thermal bridging, airtightness, and the fabric-first approach, including CLT (cross-laminated timber) and Ecopanel (a prefabricated structural insulated wall system).

To book visit, www.superhome.co.nz/events

OCT & NOV

CONZTRUCT

Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill, Queenstown, Auckland North, Tauranga, Gisborne, Napier

Grab your mates and join us for New Zealand’s largest travelling trade show for the construction industry.

Find out what’s new, test and try tools, pick up giveaways and show specials, earn points, and go into the draw to win a ute! Entry, food, and drinks are free!

For more information visit, www.conztruct.co.nz

pro clima CUBE Spring Tour

Whanganui, Dunedin, Cromwell

OCT

This spring, the pro clima CUBE is hitting the road! We are offering a completely new format of practical and theoretical training on airtightness and weathertightness. Join our Technical and Education expert, Jon Davies, for hands-on workshops as we explore how to build a more durable, energy-efficient, and comfortable future.

For more information visit, www.proclima.co.nz/events

Keen to find out about other events happening in your region? Check out the Events Calendar on the NZCB members-only Toolshed website www.nzcb.nz.

Unlock benefits with NZCB Apprentice Network

If you employ an apprentice, ask yourself: Are they members of the New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Apprentice Network? If not, why?

The NZCB Apprentice Network is a valuable benefit of being a part of NZCB. This programme allows your apprentices to become Trainee Members of the Association, for free, and opens up a world of opportunities.

Comprehensive support and benefits

The Apprentice Network is designed to support both NZCB Business Members and their apprentices. It provides access to numerous benefits, such as exclusive deals and discounts from merchant supply partners, negotiated tool discounts, mental health and wellbeing support, employment agreements, insurance packages, priority entry into the NZCB Apprentice Challenge, and much more.

Exclusive tool deals

Through a partnership with a wholesale tool supplier, both Trainee Members and their employers can purchase industry quality tools at reduced rates, ensuring apprentices have the best tools as they develop their skills.

NZCB has also created three apprentice kits, available for purchase on the members-only Toolshed website. These kits are tailored to match the yearly progression of an apprentice, with well-known, industry standard brands such as Estwing, Fisco, and Marshalltown. For those who prefer customisation, the ‘Build Your Own’ option allows apprentices to select specific tools from across the kits. Plus, 5% of every purchase goes directly to the NZCB Apprentice Trust, further supporting the industry.

But that’s not all. NZCB has also partnered with Makita NZ to offer a comprehensive range of cordless carpentry tools. Exclusive to members of the Apprentice Network, you can access special pricing on the latest 18V LXT and 40V XGT Kits and Bare skin tools.

All purchases are shipped free of charge to the registered address of the NZCB Business Member (for orders over $300).

Support beyond tools

The NZCB Apprentice Network also offers real support for apprentices facing challenges in their training journey. Recently, the network helped an apprentice who had relocated and changed training providers. The apprentice’s previous work and progress weren’t recognised, but thanks to being part of the Apprentice Network, NZCB was able assist.

Help is also available through the NZCB Apprentice Trust. The NZCB Apprentice Trust supports Trainee Members in difficult times, and can help to provide support for accommodation costs, fees, petrol, and more. The Trust is generously backed by NZCB regions and building partners.

Join today — it’s free!

If your apprentice isn’t yet a member of the NZCB Apprentice Network, now is the perfect time to enrol. The benefits are extensive, and membership is free.

To sign up, visit the Toolshed on the NZCB website at www.nzcb.nz/members/trainee-membership/.

Milestone achieved

Members

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.

Marathon learning journey with outstanding teamwork

When Luke Anderson first started his Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) apprenticeship, he couldn’t have imagined the journey that lay ahead. Reading and writing challenges held him back from completing his training for more than a decade.

But 10 years later, Luke is a qualified carpenter, loving his job, and pleased he pushed through the difficulties he faced.

His success is a combination of his own bravery and hard work, and the support of Leith Kawana, his boss at Done Right Builders, Murray Atkinson, his BCITO Training Advisor, and Phil Middleton of Learner Focused Training Ltd, who have worked together to help Luke succeed.

“Leith, Murray, and my wife all were encouraging me to take my apprenticeship seriously and get qualified. Together, they gave me the push that I needed to give it a serious go,” says Luke.

Thanks to the encouragement from his close circle, Luke attended the carpentry theory classes offered by BCITO and delivered by Learner Focused Training Ltd. These classes expose a BCITO apprentice to the full range of theory topics over three 10-week stages to help with their BCITO assessment visits.

Luke was dedicated and consistently attended every class but even so, his Training Advisor Murray noticed Luke still struggled during assessments. The pair realised it was Luke’s literacy and numeracy skills paired with the faster pace of the general carpentry classes that made assessment an uphill struggle.

In late 2021, as part of BCITO’s continued focus to support apprentices with literacy needs, BCITO contracted Learner Focused Training to help BCITO carpentry apprentices build foundational skills such as literacy and numeracy. The Carpentry Sessions - Learning Support are a good option for those who work better in smaller groups; at a slower pace and like to ask questions; have English as a second language; or have a learning difficulty.

“I knew this new format would suit Luke as, although reading the material was a challenge, it was very clear that he had extensive knowledge and years of on-site experience – but he struggled to articulate this knowledge. Having Luke attend these classes meant I was able to work directly with him at a slower pace and give him more opportunities to ask questions. Luke thrived and grew in confidence,” says Phil.

“The most important thing we can do to support our learners is to pay attention. That way we can adjust and tailor our teaching style depending on what each individual needs. When I was doing my own apprenticeship, I struggled too, but it doesn’t have to be that way anymore. There’s support available.”

Luke spoke highly of the support that he received from both Phil and his Training Advisor Murray.

“If I ever needed anything, I could always call Phil. He would go above and beyond, often visiting me on-site to help with anything I was unsure about. Murray was the same. Both of them understood that

I knew what to do, but that I couldn’t always write it down the way they needed. Everyone was so accommodating.”

With the unwavering support of his team, Luke completed his carpentry qualification last year.

“Without their support I know that I wouldn’t have completed my apprenticeship. They could tell I was struggling, but refused to give up on me,” continues Luke.

With new-found confidence and the knowledge that he has a team behind him, Luke has now decided to take on the BCITO Supervisor Qualification.

“Phil and Murray awarded me my certificate at our ‘Done Right Builders’ offices and said: ‘You might as well do this one too’. So, I enrolled in the supervisor qual along with my boss Leith and another one of the guys at work. It makes it easier. If one of us is falling behind, we can help each other out,” he says.

“We attend the Learner Focused Training Level 5 Supervisor classes once a week and we are still supported by our everpresent Training Advisor Murray.”

Luke’s advice for others who are finding their apprenticeships challenging is to ask for help.

“Everyone from BCITO is there to help you. They’re willing to go above and beyond to help you finish. It seems hard, but you can do it.”

BCITO has the resources and support systems in place to ensure everyone can enhance and refine their skills. 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.

Luke Anderson (centre) with Phil Middleton, Learner Focused Training (left), and Murray Atkinson, BCITO Training Advisor (right).

Diving into Abodo’s two Vulcan Cladding ranges

Now in its tenth year, Abodo’s Vulcan timber cladding range has expanded. The original product, now known as Vulcan Cladding – Architectural Series, has been joined by Vulcan Cladding – Standard Series. Here’s a summary to help choose which is right for you.

Aesthetic and grade

Consider the aesthetic you are looking to achieve. Is this a project where a largely clear aesthetic is desired, or one where a little more natural character would be welcomed?

The appearance is one of the key differences between the two ranges.

• Architectural Series is a clear grade with limited natural features for a largely clear aesthetic.

• Standard Series is a light feature grade with some knots, resin pockets and other natural features present along with some clear lengths, bringing light natural variety.

Sustainability credentials

Both the Architectural and Standard Series are made from the same Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified, rapidly renewable New Zealand Radiata.

They’re both thermally modified and crafted with Abodo’s patented vertical grain orientation for enhanced stability and durability.

Price and warranty

Both ranges, Architectural and Standard, have a 15 Year Built to Last Warranty. They are crafted from the same timber and follow the same innovative manufacturing process that Abodo has perfected over more than 20 years in business.

However, because a different grade of timber is used, the Standard Series is available at a lower price than our premium Architectural Series. This more accessible price means more people will have the opportunity to bring the natural warmth of timber and its wellbeing benefits to their builds.

Design flexibility

With almost unlimited design potential, the Architectural Series is available in a wider range of profiles and colours compared to the Standard Series. Choose from our nine Protector coating colours in both ranges. If you’re looking for Sioo:x or Iron Vitriol, the Architectural Series is for you.

Want to know more?

Order a sample at www.abodo.co.nz/samples or call 09 249 0100 for more information.

Vulcan Cladding – Architectural Series.

Vulcan Cladding – Standard Series.

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

Terraced housing that’s a cut above

Quality is key in a new high-end terraced housing development in the heart of Henderson.

The masterwork of award-winning design and build company Miro Homes, the 20 unit Lavelle Road development is scheduled for completion in August, and will offer upmarket living for West Aucklanders seeking something special.

Product and material selection have been pivotal to the project’s success, including extensive use of GIB® systems and products such as GIB Barrierline®, Aqualine®, Weatherline®, Braceline® , Noiseline® and Fyreline®. In fact, Miro homes director Jerry Liu says he wouldn’t use anything else.

“We launched Miro Homes in 2017, but we’ve been using GIB® long before we started this company,” says Jerry, who has over a decade of construction industry experience in New Zealand. “We prefer to use good reliable brands that people can confidently trust.”

Miro’s commitment to quality has clearly paid off – Jerry and his team have won a slew of awards including recognition at the 2023 NZCBIA (New Zealand Chinese Building Industry Association) Excellence Awards.

Initially established as a builder of stand-alone homes, Jerry and his business partner Hongren Wang began expanding into the terraced housing development market in 2019, quickly building a reputation for high quality projects offering a touch of luxury.

While they still complete a lot of individual homes across greater Auckland, their multi-unit subdivision projects are gathering significant momentum.

“We have completed very successful terraced housing projects in Pakuranga and Saint Johns, and we’re currently building terraced homes in Mangere East and here in Henderson. Stand-alone homes are not a reality for many people these days due to budget – but just because you have to buy a smaller terraced home, that doesn’t mean it can’t still be beautiful, or that you have to compromise on lifestyle.”

Their Lavelle Road project is a case in point. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, and functionality and aesthetic appeal go hand-in-hand. Consisting of four two-bedroom homes (90 square metres each) and 16 three-bedroom homes (120 square metres each), the three-level development is a step above your stereotypical terraced housing subdivision.

“People come to our open homes and they can just sense the difference,” says Hongren, who completed his Master’s in construction management last year and has many years of experience in the sector.

“When we say high end, we’re not just talking about high specs. It’s also about the high quality of our workmanship. These homes are not boring simple boxes, they are something special.”

GIB Barrierline® has been used extensively throughout the project. Hongren says its narrow space-saving footprint, lightweight construction and cost effectiveness make it the ideal solution for intertenancy walls.

“Our builders love using GIB® because it’s easy to install and gives us more flexibility than other products and systems. It also gives our homeowners confidence and peace of mind, because they know GIB® products are high quality, low maintenance, and backed by robust warranties.”

Another secret to Miro’s success is their high-performing team of designers, builders, project managers and quantity surveyors, who work side-by-side to ensure projects are designed and completed to the highest standard, on time and on budget.

“We have nine people in the office and ten builders. We are all qualified industry professionals and because we all work together, we are extremely agile and able to build really efficiently.”

Combine this with ongoing support from the GIB® technical team, and Hongren reckons they have a winning combination.

“Almost 100% of the issues we have found on-site we have been able to work through and solve with the support of the GIB® team.”

Jerry is quick to agree.

“When we’ve had any challenges, the GIB® on-site technical support has been invaluable,” he says. “These homes are three levels with balcony, so fire resistance was tricky - and ventilation threw up another challenge - but site meetings with GIB® helped us work through solutions and saved us a lot of time and money.”

Now nearly completed, this Miro Homes terraced housing development has injected more than a dash of style and substance into Henderson’s housing stock, and looks set to dish up an enviable lifestyle to those lucky enough to call it ‘home’.

BEAUTY OF CHOICE

MINIMAL OVENS AND COMPANIONS

Quiet and refined, Fisher & Paykel’s Minimal Style appliances are designed to support the creation of bespoke integrated kitchens with a singular aesthetic and monochromatic details.

COMBI STEAM

Fisher & Paykel’s combination steam ovens offer the precise temperature control of steam and the functionality of an innovative convection oven. Whether you want to steam, sous vide, roast or bake, they’ve mastered temperature so you can achieve perfect results.

BUILT-IN OVENS

Fisher & Paykel draws on a rich heritage of innovation, research and development to craft ovens that give absolute control of temperature throughout the oven cavity, providing flawless multi-shelf cooking.

COMPANIONS

Pair Fisher & Paykel steam and convection ovens with complementary companion appliances to create a kitchen suite for every need. Endlessly configurable, align companions vertically or horizontally, as a gridded block, or distribute them for absolute convenience.

Elevating building projects with glass balustrades

Glass balustrades have surged in popularity in New Zealand, especially in high value projects because they offer the advantages of clear views, excellent wind protection, and enhanced light penetration. Thanks to innovative digital print options and frit patterns that withstand even the harshest weather, these balustrades are now more versatile and vibrant than ever.

For a safe and compliant installation, it is crucial to consider both glass and hardware together. A common issue arises when support structures and substrates are not built in accordance with PS1 compliance documentation, leading to unsafe systems and costly rectifications. It’s important for builders to review the PS1 early in the project to ensure substrates and fixings are correctly implemented, facilitating a straightforward installation process.

Glass balustrades must either comply with NZBC Acceptable Solutions B1/AS1, B2/AS1, F2/AS1, F4/AS1 and Verification Method B1/VM1 or Alternative Solutions.

The NZS 4223 set of standards, which is used for glass selection, is sponsored by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and is available to download for free at www.standards.govt.nz/get-standards/sponsored-standards/ building-related-standards.

At Metro Glass, we offer free online PS1s for standard balustrade designs and provide an in-house process for specific designs and PS1s, with a nominal fee agreed during the plan assessment.

To ensure safety, especially from barriers protecting from falling, consider these critical points:

• Structural toughened safety glass barriers: These require an interlinking rail for falls of one metre or more.

• Structural heat strengthened or toughened laminated safety glass barriers: These do not necessarily require an interlinking rail but must be tested to meet NZBC “post-failure” load support requirements (20kg, 1 min < 250mm deflection).

• High traffic/public areas: Glass barriers in these areas should include edge protection on all toughened glass (including laminated toughened glass) to minimise edge impact and potential breakage.

To guarantee a smooth-running project, always request to view the PS1 before starting if a glass balustrade is being installed on-site. If you have any questions about a PS1 issued by Metro Glass or need a quote on a glass balustrade, contact us at technical@metroglass.co.nz.

Enhance your building projects with the elegance and functionality of glass balustrades, ensuring compliance and safety with Metro Glass’s expert support.

Metro Performance Glass. Metro Performance Glass is a NZCB National Partner (Starter) and New Zealand’s leading supplier of Double Glazing, Retrofit, Frameless Glass Balustrades, Showers, Mirrors & Splashbacks. Supplying New Zealand homes and businesses for over 30 years. For

Toughened safety glass is hard to break, but when it does, it shatters into thousands of small pieces meaning injury from lacerations is reduced. However, this poses a risk for falls if the barrier was intended to protect a height of one metre or more.

When Laminated safety glass breaks, it is held together by the interlayer. There is special testing to see whether it can comply with post-failure loads.

Toughened laminated safety glass (LSG) with a stiff interlayer is designed to remain upright even when it has broken. The stiffened interlayer ensures that it can hold post-failure loads and this type of glass can be used with no interlinking rail for the clearest views.

Corrosion protection for fastenings

Corrosion is a leading cause of fastener failure, often occurring when steel reacts with oxygen, forming iron oxide, commonly known as rust.

Fasteners, such as nails, nail plates, and screws, are typically made from steel, which can be highly susceptible to corrosion in certain environments. If left unchecked, corrosion will weaken the metal, eventually leading to failure.

Methods of protecting steel from corrosion:

1. Barrier method:

Some metals form an oxide layer on their surface, which acts as a barrier, preventing oxygen from reaching the base metal underneath: no oxygen, no corrosion. Chromium and zinc are examples of metals that provide this protective barrier.

Galvanising: Zinc can be applied to steel through hot-dip galvanising or electro-galvanising to protect it from corrosion. Hot-dip galvanising creates a thicker, longer-lasting protective layer compared to electro-galvanising.

Stainless steel: Stainless steel, an alloy containing chromium, offers a different form of protection. When the chromium content exceeds 13%, it forms a durable oxide layer that prevents oxygen from reaching the steel. However, stainless steel can still corrode if oxygen levels are insufficient to maintain this barrier or if chlorides, such as salt water, are present. This type of corrosion is known as crevice corrosion.

2. Sacrificial protection:

In this method, one metal sacrifices itself by corroding first to protect another metal. This process is called cathodic protection. On the following chart, any metal positioned to the left that is in contact with another metal to its right, will “sacrifice” itself in order to protect the metal to its right. For example, zinc, being to the left of steel, will corrode to protect the steel.

Cathodic protection: When in contact with other metals, any metal further left on the chart will corrode to safeguard those on the right. Hence, zinc corrodes to protect steel.

How does this apply to wood?

Corrosion occurs fastest where a catalyst is present. A catalyst can be a mixture of moisture, steam, acids, volcanic activity, or salt.

Acids: Depending on the species, wood naturally contains acids. The acidity of Pinus Radiata is lower compared to many other species, but some woods have acid levels high enough to cause concern, especially if moisture is present, as high moisture levels can activate the acid.

Volcanic activity: In geothermal areas, stainless steel fasteners are often required to resist the corrosive effects of sulphur. This is also why CCA-treated timber in volcanic regions may turn black

– the copper in the treatment reacts with the sulphur. Unprotected steel fasteners will also degrade in such environments.

Salt: Salt is a particularly active catalyst and is carried by sea spray in coastal regions. This is why stainless steel fasteners are a requirement in these areas.

Preservation chemicals: Boron does not pose a risk for fasteners when in a dry internal frame with MC< 20%. Bright steel nails have successfully been used for decades in this environment. Similarly, CCA H3.2 timber does not cause corrosion of bright steel nails as long as moisture levels remain low. Treatments H-4 or higher contain much higher levels of copper which will encourage mild steel to corrode faster.

Best practices for fasteners

Galvanised or stainless steel fasteners should be used wherever CCA timber is specified, regardless of whether the application is internal or external, wet or dry.

Bright steel screws and nails should only be used in areas where timber will remain completely dry throughout its service life and not be exposed to any of the catalysts listed above. In all other areas galvanised or stainless fasteners should be used following the requirements of NZS3604 closely.

Need further information?

For more information and resources, please visit www.redstagtimber.co.nz

More active (corrodes easily)

active (more stable)

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/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 Kirsty at the NZCB National Support Office on 0800 237 843 or kirsty@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

NEW 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

Franklin Plumbing and Builders Supplies Ltd www.franklins.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

Harvey Norman Commercial www.harveynormancommercial.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

NEW 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