No part of this journal may be printed in other publications without prior written permission of the Managing Editor. Disclaimer: Statements expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the policies or views of the associations, and members of IRHACE or CCCANZ. The IRHACE Journal publishes both local and international articles. Standards and or practices may differ from current New Zealand standards and or practices used. No responsibility is accepted by the associations and editor for the accuracy of information or for errors or omissions. The IRHACE Journal is distributed to all the IRHACE and CCCANZ financial members.
ISSN 01148257
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FEATURES
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Another champion named
Six apprentices showcased their skills at the Wallie Askew Memorial Workskills Competition last month.
Building a career in HVAC&R
Our trade has a new Level 5 qualification to better upskill the workforce in an area essential to our daily lives.
The lowdown on HVRF systems
These air conditioning systems combine the advantages of traditional VRF systems with advanced chiller technology.
HVAC&R South: a new hub for the HVAC&R industry
Launching at SouthMACH 2025, HVAC&R South will be a celebration of the South Island’s manufacturing heritage and a showcase of the latest technologies.
This month, we are pleased to announce the official launch of our South Island trade show, HVAC&R South, located in Christchurch. With our partner XPO, co-hosted with IRHACE and CCCANZ, HVAC&R South is part of SouthMACH – the largest engineering, manufacturing and technology trade exhibition attracting 2,000+ industry professionals and 100+ exhibitors.
In this issue, we bring you Poor indoor air quality: what are the signs? We also cover our journey to WorldSkills, the value of hiring a professional HVAC&R technician, an air conditioning fit-out for a residential apartment complex in Tauranga, and a convenient reclaim cylinder exchange initiative.
We celebrate the finals at the Wallie Askew Memorial Workskills Competition for 2024. Congratulations to the winner, Liam McVicar from McAlpine Hussmann, Wellington. Second place was awarded to Dylan Hendry, McAlpine Hussman, Dunedin; and third place to Matt Jackson, Active Refrigeration, Christchurch. Special thanks to our main sponsor, Realcold; our venue sponsors, Steelfort; and dinner sponsor, CCCANZ. Read the full story
October saw the running of our inaugural street party in Auckland. Events like this strengthen industry connections and inspire future collaborations. In November, we await our first participation in the STEM and Transport Expo at MOTAT to engage with young students and IRHACE’s trade night in Whangārei.
Most people are leaving New Zealand for Australia than ever before, but is the grass really greener? Waihanga Ara Rau, Construction Workforce Development Council, has released research on its surprising findings which was featured on 1 News.
HVAC&R South: a new hub for the South Island’s HVAC&R industry
CEO: IRHACE, CCCANZ, HVAC&R Centre
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AROUND THE INDUSTRY
1. Refrigerant recovery in Blenheim
A-Gas Rapid Recovery team headed down to Blenheim to perform refrigerant recovery at a local supermarket. The store’s existing refrigeration racks were being decommissioned as part of an upgrade to lower global warming potential (GWP) systems. By safely and efficiently recovering the high GWP refrigerant from the decommissioned racks, 850kg of CO2 equivalent emissions were prevented from being released into the atmosphere.
2. McAlpine Hussmann lucky winner
Congratulations to Andy from McAlpine Hussmann who was the lucky winner of the Patton Nelson October Promotion. Patton Branch Supervisor, Ryan Ashton (left), had the pleasure of presenting Andy with a Ridge Ryder Thermo Cooler.
3. Gumboot Friday
Beijer Ref staff supported Gumboot Friday, which raises funds for free counselling services for children and teenagers, ensuring they can access the help they need.
4. Temperzone celebrates Diwali
Temperzone infused their workplace with the vibrant colours and traditions of Diwali. This was not just about festivities, but also about coming together to celebrate and embrace New Zealand’s multicultural heritage.
5. Competenz announcement
Competenz has announced the appointment of Murray Newman as General Manager, Corporate Services. With a rich background in finance and corporate governance, Murray brings over 20 years of executive experience across diverse industries, most recently in senior roles at NTT NZ Limited and Intergen, where he held positions as CFO and General Manager, Corporate Services.
6. RCR staff celebrate 25 years
RCR recently celebrated 25 years of service from two of their customer service team members, Debra and Andrea. What an amazing milestone.
Eurotec staff gathered over a morning tea to honour their Refrigeration Business Unit Manager Suyash Baichoo. His commitment and dedication to the company are remarkable as he celebrates 20 years at Eurotec. 8 9
7. Apprenticeship completed
As per Air Zone tradition, there was a celebration when Jake Damora completed his Refrigeration Engineering apprenticeship. This milestone reflects his dedication, hard work, and the skills he has developed. The team marked the occasion with a barbecue breakfast where everyone came together to share stories and celebrate Jake’s achievements.
He was presented with a personalised engraved spanner and a certificate of completion, recognising his success.
8. 20 years at Eurotec
9. 20 years for Clima Solutions
In December 2024, Clima Solutions will celebrate 20 years. The company represents leading HVAC manufacturers from across the globe.
VRF Systems with airCloud Tap
The smartphone app developed for HVAC professionals in mind. Enjoy contactless communication with air conditioning equipment! You can read & write commissioning and maintenance settings with your phone.
hitachiaircon.co.nz
Open airCloud Tap app
Tap your phone on the NFC symbol on the air365 Max unit
Read and edit the settings as you need
Tap again your phone to the air365 Max unit to apply the modifications
The settings can be saved in the app, and then copied later in other units with similar requirements
Activate the NFC function on your AC equipment
Open the airCloud Tap app and tap the AC equipment with your phone to create a connection
Edit the desired settings on your phone. You don’t need to stay close to the AC while editing.
Tap again to apply the new settings. The settings can be saved in the app, and then copied later
Poor indoor air quality: what are the signs?
Healthy air keeps us happy and healthy. Here’s what to watch out for and steps to take to improve the air quality in your home
The average person spends 90 per cent of their time indoors, and over 60 per cent of time in the home – and that’s during our waking hours. If the air inside our homes is polluted, our health can be negatively impacted. So, what are the signs of low air quality?
Although there are many indicators of poor air quality, these indicators can be early signs that the air in your home could be improved.
Bad odours
Unsurprisingly, this is one of the first signs of poor air quality. Bad smells can result from various sources including animal dander, cooking and mould growth. Identify where the odour is stemming from and treat it at the source to combat the unpleasant smell and improve the home’s air quality.
Hot or cold spots
Hot or cold spots are the result of uneven temperature distribution and another indication of indoor air quality that could be improved. Making the temperature more uniform throughout your home will help to address the unstable indoor air caused by large fluctuations in temperature.
High humidity
Excessive humidity can be uncomfortable to live in and
can also encourage the growth of mould and mildew. High levels of humidity can be the result of external factors such as the weather, or activities within the home such as cooking or showering. Reducing humidity means lower moisture levels and a more stable indoor environment.
Dust
Dust mites, pollen, microplastics and bacteria all contribute to poor air quality. Maintaining a dust-free, clean home will improve the air around you and your family.
Physical symptoms
Our bodies can also indicate poor air quality around us – allergic episodes, allergy irritation, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, irritated or dry skin, and coughing are all symptoms that might be experienced. While each symptom can be caused by other factors and it’s important to consult a doctor, they are also indicators that the environment around us is not healthy.
Lots of factors impact the quality of the air inside our homes. Thankfully, heat pumps and air conditioners can help heat and cool our homes, maintain a comfortable level of humidity and mitigate health risks with the best possible air quality.
Another champion named
Six apprentices showcased their skills at the Wallie Askew Memorial Workskills Competition last month
Following three successful regional rounds of the competition – where a record number of apprentices competed – the 2024 Wallie Askew Memorial Workskills Competition has wrapped up with new winners announced.
As well as having a record number of apprentices competing at the regionals, this was the first year apprentices could enter the competition again if they’d previously been involved.
“There were two reasons for the change of rules,” says Gina McMaster, CEO, IRHACE and CCCANZ. “To allow apprentices to enter more than once encourages the younger apprentices to enter. The second reason is that, with competitors entering more than once, the level of competition rises as they should be better prepared.”
This was the case for Liam McVicar from McAlpine Hussmann, Wellington, who took out first place in this year’s challenge after first competing last year.
Newcomers Dylan Hendry (McAlpine Hussmann, Dunedin) and Matt Jackson (Active Refrigeration, Christchurch), placed second and third, respectively. Campbell Brown (McAlpine Hussmann, Tauranga), Dylan Hendry (McAlpine Hussmann, Dunedin), Oliver Tischendorf, Dobsons Refrigeration & Electrical, Te Puke), and Tristran Munro (Excel Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Wellington), also impressed the judges –David Everett, Cameron Wilson-Meek, Daniel Jordan, Neill Adkins, Elias McKenzie, Lee Todd and Rodger Wyatt.
WorldSkills New Zealand’s Operations Coordinator, Sally Gray, was also there to support the apprentices.
Showcasing their skills in both practical and theory, day one of the competition saw the apprentices fly through their practical assessment before starting theory and electrical fault finding in the second half of day two.
Held annually, the Wallie Askew Memorial Workskills Competition is about coming together as an industry and supporting those early on in their HVAC&R careers.
A huge thank you to our major sponsors RealCold and CCCANZ.
A special thanks to Steelfort Engineering and John Jenkins for hosting the final competition, and to our judges and volunteers – none of this would be possible without your support.
If you’re an apprentice or a company that would like to support your apprentices in next year’s Wallie Askew competition, get in touch via admin@irhace.org.nz
East end view WA Apprentices 2024
Prizegiving
Judges Elias MacKenzie, Daniel Jordan, Neill Rodger Wyatt, David Everitt, Cameron Wilson-Meek
Prizegiving - Dylan Hendry, Kerry Hendry, Simon Hendry
Prizegiving: Realcold Murray Walker, George Churchhouse
Judge Neill Adkins - Worldskills Sally Gray_Worldskills NZ 2023 Rep Jack Butler Active NP
Neill Adkins, Lee Todd, Wilson-Meek
Liam McVicar, Judges Daniel Jordan, Neill Adkins, David Everitt
Matt Jackson, Tristan Munro, Campbell Brown, Liam McVicar, Oliver Tischendorf, Dylan Hendry
Steelfort: Alex Ward, John Jenkiins
Support crews
Our journey to WorldSkills
HVAC&R Centre’s Gina McMaster shares how New Zealand came to be representing the world stage in HVAC&R with the help of IRHACE
Words by Gina McMaster, CEO IRHACE and CCCANZ
It was a dream and one that had been talked about over the years. But there was a lot to overcome.
Back in 2021, the IRHACE Council wanted to provide both a high-performance and development pathway for our apprentices. No one could get it across the line and so it just didn’t get the push and determination for the project to succeed.
With my background in sport, I know how important it is to have these pathways and I have succeeded in these journeys with other organisations. The most important thing is to have a plan. It started with the restructuring of the existing Wallie Askew Memorial Workskills Competition.
At WorldSkills, the skill is ‘Refrigeration and Air Conditioning’ and this is what we were going to need to change to bring in the other components. The international competition also has different scoring –another change to bring in to give us a more consistent and structured approach. While this wasn’t a popular move to start with, the industry has seen the positive and is supportive of the change.
IRHACE established the Apprentices of IRHACE special interest group and at the helm is David Everett. With assistance from Trent McDonald, David put together a team that includes John Jenkins, Neill Adkins, Daniel Jordan and Phil Mohan to steer the competition’s change.
Along with this came the mentoring group which now includes Cameron Wilson-Meek (winner in 2022), Alex Davies (2023 winner) and Jack Butler (first WorldSkills representative) who have all given back to the industry in judging and presentations to the competitors.
Our partnership with WorldSkills NZ covers the promotion and showcase of the refrigeration and air conditioning industry to stakeholders and the public as well as other areas of cooperation. This venture enabled us to put forward an apprentice to represent New Zealand on the world stage. With the partnership and special interest group established, we now needed to attract more entries into the competition. The changes to the rules have allowed competitors to enter from Year 1 to Year 4 of their apprenticeship and enter more than once. This has occurred for the first time in the 2024 competition with a record number of entries.
Sally Gray Worldskills, Phil Mohan IRHACE, Carl Rankin Worldskills
Our operations team has worked tirelessly in the background, contacting companies to encourage entries and also to get support from the industry. Realcold has now been the major sponsor of the event for the last two years and there is continual support from CCCANZ.
Our companies and educational institutes have assisted with venues and suppliers have provided equipment and prize support.
But the crunch came when our first apprentice, Jack Butler from Active Refrigeration, was selected to compete globally – IRHACE had to fully commit to being able to fund not only the WorldSkills leg but also the Melbourne competition.
RLNZ stepped up and provided sponsorship for the Australian part of the competition and Active Refrigeration has sponsored the WorldSkills aspect.
Craig Duff, a long-time IRHACE member and Founding Director of Active, commented on this part of the journey saying, “What an amazing journey for you all to be on, and for Active on the world stage. What a proud moment. Well done all.”
WorldSkills is a competition at another level – the Olympics for our trade. It is such a great experience no matter where competitors finish. Jack has made New Zealand proud and put our industry on the world map.
Is the grass greener?
It’s a question New Zealand’s Workforce Development Council, Waihanga Ara Rau, recently posed in a media release about Kiwi workers jumping across the ditch
It’s a long-held belief that Australia offers better financial opportunities for New Zealanders in the construction and infrastructure sectors. However, new research suggests this may no longer be the case. Instead, the study finds that shrinking income disparities, higher taxes and soaring house prices are making Australia a less attractive destination for many Kiwi workers looking to relocate.
The Construction and Infrastructure Workforce Development Council, Waihanga Ara Rau, commissioned Allen + Clarke to conduct this research on their behalf. Is the grass really greener? combines quantitative analysis and interviews with returning workers to offer a detailed comparison of key factors influencing relocation decisions, including income levels, housing affordability and costs of living.
Kiwi wages on par with Australia for Electricians, Telecoms workers
Among the findings, it shows electricians and telecoms workers in Victoria and New South Wales are no longer likely to earn significantly more than their counterparts in New Zealand, and may even take home less after-tax income. For construction workers and heavy machinery operators, it reveals that although earnings remain higher in Australia, they come at the cost of overtime and weekend hours.
Chief Executive Philip Aldridge says the research provides a valuable, up-to-date picture of the realities facing New
Zealand workers considering a move across the Tasman: “This research isn’t about claiming one country is better. It’s about giving workers and employers complete information. Relocating involves more than just a paycheck, with taxes, living costs, and work-life balance all playing a role. Both sides need to understand the trade-offs.”
Workers prefer Aotearoa to bring up families
The research finds that stage of life also plays a critical role in decisions to move to Australia, with the country remaining most appealing to younger Kiwis early in their careers, especially those without children or mortgages. Australia’s larger job market and opportunities for career progression, combined with overtime and penalty rates, continue to draw those seeking a ‘Tradie OE’.
In contrast, New Zealand becomes more attractive as workers progress through their careers, start families, and seek greater stability. With improving housing affordability and a better work-life balance, the report finds that New Zealand offers strong incentives for those looking to settle down long-term.
Learners who are ineligible for Fees Free, may now be eligible to have their Elev8 enrolment fee waived for the first 12 months.
Eligible programmes:
• Mechanical engineering (including fabrication)
• Refrigeration and air conditioning
• Air conditioning installation
• Mechanical building services.
What is provided free:
• Elev8 annual fee only.
What is not included:
• Canvas online learning fees
• Block course
• Textbooks.
Eligible enrolments:
• Enrolment date must be before Monday 2 December 2024.
Period of free Elev8 offer:
• 12 months from start date.
General information:
• Eligible Elev8 learners returning a ‘maybe’ or ‘no’ for Fees Free will be credited for the Elev8 fee covering the agreed period
• Fees Free eligibility returning a ‘maybe’ will require a completion of a statutory declaration.
For further information, please contact your training advisor.
Building a career in HVAC&R
Our trade has a new Level 5 qualification to better upskill the workforce in an area essential to our daily lives
The HVAC&R sector is essential to various aspects of our day-to-day, and the economy. With its rapid growth, the demand for skilled professionals in refrigeration engineering is crucial to support the New Zealand economy.
HVAC&R Centre works hard to encourage new apprentices into the industry and assist with the development of those already qualified.
HVAC&R qualifications in New Zealand
Air Conditioning Installation (Level 4)
Air conditioning technicians need to have a good fitness level and be strong as they may need to carry heavy tools and equipment. Qualified air conditioning technicians must be registered and licensed with the Electrical Workers Registration Board. This qualification programme focuses on the types of commercial and residential units commonly installed, including ducted systems and variable refrigerant flow units. Installation covers the requirements of seismic restraints, passive fire, and retaining the structural integrity of buildings, among others.
Air Conditioning Installation Level 4 is a two-year certificate worth 140 credits.
New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Building Services, Trade (Level 4)
Mechanical building services engineers install and maintain the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and environmental control systems used in offices, hospitals, supermarkets and other businesses. You can either train through an on-the-job apprentice or tertiary institutes and are likely to work in a variety of locations.
Mechanical service systems may include environmental control systems; air conditioning and heating systems; specialist ventilation and fluid conveyancing systems; non-potable water systems; and medical and laboratory gas systems.
This qualification is a Level 4 certificate worth 280 credits.
New Zealand Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, Trade (Level 4)
Entry to this course is open, however, it is recommended candidates hold the National Certificate in Educational Achievement (Level 2). The purpose of this qualification is to provide the HVAC industry with skilled tradespeople who can independently install, maintain, service and commission plant and equipment to industry standards.
The certificate is Level 4, worth 280 credits.
New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering, Advanced (Level 5)
This qualification is designed for people who have already completed a mechanical engineering-related Level 4 trade qualification and wish to further develop their technical and/or operational knowledge and skills within their chosen discipline of mechanical engineering, construction, manufacturing, fabrication, refrigeration and air conditioning, and mechanical building services.
The programme is Level 5, worth 70 credits, and can lead to the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6) with strands in civil engineering, electrical engineering, electronics engineering, mechanical engineering, and fire engineering.
From the farm to France
A
can-do attitude and farm fix-it skills helped this apprentice succeed in Lyon
At the 47th WorldSkills International Competition in Lyon, Jack Butler proved his skills – showcasing his ability to work in a high-pressure environment, perform complex tasks including installing and piping key components like condensing units and wall-mounted evaporators, diagnosing and repairing electrical and AC faults, and fabricating a copper sub-cooler with expert precision.
“The whole experience was incredible and beyond what I could ever imagine,” says the 20-year-old from Urenui. “Meeting people from around the world and seeing where we stand compared to the rest was a real highlight. It was really cool to see that we, as New Zealanders, are in the top end of our trade.”
Described as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Jack spent 12 months training for the event, building his competition skills at the 2023 Wallie Askew Memorial Workskills Competition where he placed first in the regional challenge and second in the final competition –securing his spot for Lyon as well as the WorldSkills Australia Global Skills Challenge in Melbourne, where he took out silver.
“I was lucky enough to have Active Refrigeration backing and supporting me the whole journey and pushing me to do my best, putting me through any training I needed and building replica training units from past WorldSkills competitions.”
Events like this are close to the heart of Jack’s boss William Lovell. He, too, has achieved success in the Wallie Askew Memorial Workskills Competition and is a big fan of the benefits they bring.
“Competitions are a great opportunity to put your skills to the test against fellow apprentices and a way to advance in skillset and personal development,” says William, who accompanied Jack to Lyon and described the opportunity as a career highlight.
“I can’t even explain how proud I am of Jack. From what
I’ve seen him achieve in the past four years, I can only imagine how far he will go in the industry.”
William believes Jack’s dedication, enthusiasm and interest in embracing new challenges set him apart in the sector.
”He has a Kiwi can-do attitude and is always looking forward to how he can further progress his career. What impresses me most is his attention to detail and his willingness to always improve and progress in his skillset.”
Competenz Training Advisor Angus Ryburn was part of the team that saw Jack gain his apprenticeship qualification, and he reckons Jack is a perfect fit for the sector.
“Jack is cool-headed and even-tempered. This allows him to logically deal with and work through the requirements of whatever challenges he faces,” says Angus. “He’s not driven by ego, but a desire to do the right thing by the team and customer and get the job done safely, timely and effectively. A future leader for sure.”
That’s music to Jack’s ears. Why? Because he can’t imagine doing anything else.
“I was brought up on a farm where my dad always had a project in the shed, so from a young kid, I’ve always been keen on building things and pulling things apart to see how they work,” explains Jack.
“Growing up, I wanted to be an engineer but soon realised I didn’t want to be stuck in a workshop all day doing the same thing. At high school, I was given the chance to do work experience with Active Refrigeration and have never looked back. Within our trade, there’s so much variety – one day, you’ll be Tig welding stainless pipe; the next, you’ll be fault-finding electrical, and the next, you’re servicing refrigeration equipment. Every day is different, and that’s the best part of the job.”
The lowdown on Hybrid Variable Refrigerant Flow (HVRF) systems
These air conditioning systems combine the advantages of traditional VRF systems with advanced chiller technology
Energy efficiency is one of the major drawcards of HVRF systems, making them a popular choice as the demand for environmental responsibility grows.
Unlike conventional HVAC systems that rely solely on refrigerant lines, HVRF systems incorporate water lines.
The systems operate by replacing refrigerant with water between the hybrid branch circuit controller and the indoor units – minimising the need for expensive and ongoing leak detection servicing.
The design makes HVRF systems ideal for occupied spaces where quiet, energy-efficient, simultaneous heating and cooling is valued.
The benefits of Hybrid Variable Refrigerant Flow (HVRF) systems
Cost savings and energy efficiency
One of the main reasons for a switch to an HVRF system is for increased energy efficiency. Compared to traditional systems where energy can be wasted by heating and cooling different areas independently, HVRF systems balance this simultaneously. The use of less energy also has a positive impact on the environment.
No refrigerant concentration limits
By cooling and heating with water instead of refrigerant, HVRF systems can be used for most commercial buildings including hotels, offices, educational buildings, and hospitals and medical centres.
Flexibility
These systems also provide flexible zone control with different indoor units able to operate on heating or cooling at the same time. This is ideal for multi-tenant office buildings and hotels – individual zones can be adjusted to meet specific needs, enhancing comfort without sacrificing efficiency. However, it’s important to plan your installation – ductwork retrofitting and disruptions during installation can be experienced when adding an HVRF system to an existing building.
Case study highlight
An HVRF system was the right choice for a mid-sized office building in central Christchurch, which was recently installed by Beattie Air. The transition from a conventional HVAC system to a Mitsubishi Electric HVRF system was made to reduce operating costs and temperature inconsistencies.
The results
• A 30 per cent reduction in energy usage was seen within the first year.
• There was a 50 per cent drop in complaints about temperature inconsistencies.
• Improved system reliability paired with fewer mechanical issues has decreased maintenance costs.
• The building’s overall safety has been improved thanks to the reduced use of high-pressure refrigerant lines.
A convenient reclaim cylinder exchange initiative
A-Gas has partnered with Actrol to increase refrigerant recovery in New Zealand
The responsible management of used refrigerants plays a vital role in reducing emissions. While is it illegal in New Zealand to intentionally release refrigerants into the atmosphere, venting unfortunately still frequently occurs. That’s why A-Gas, a global enabler of lifecycle refrigerant management, has partnered with Actrol, a leading refrigeration wholesaler in New Zealand and Australia to support the industry in increasing refrigerant recovery rates.
“A-Gas is committed to capturing gas for future re-use, preventing its harmful release into the atmosphere,” says A-Gas New Zealand General Manager, Mitchell Williamson. “We are excited to partner with Actrol in New Zealand to introduce a reclaim cylinder exchange initiative for their customers. This collaboration demonstrates our shared commitment to protecting our environment for a sustainable future.”
Recovering used refrigerants reduces their potential impact on the environment. The new Actrol Reclaim Refrigerant Programme offers a seamless process for managing used refrigerant, eliminating the need and cost of owning their own reclaim cylinders for customers. HVAC and refrigeration technicians can easily visit one of Actrol’s nine branches located throughout New Zealand to collect a free reclaim cylinder. Once the cylinder is full, customers can return it to an Actrol branch and exchange it for an empty, vacuumed and approved reclaim cylinder ready for the next recovery. From there, Actrol sends the recovered refrigerants to A-Gas for processing. To make the process even easier, technicians can track their cylinder fleet through Actrol’s Flexitrak app to see their current stock and reclaim history.
“Our partnership with A-Gas represents our continued commitment to being one step ahead of our customers’ needs. This programme is designed to be convenient for our customers and rewards them with incentives, empowering them to easily minimise their impact on the environment. We’ve been offering this service in Australia for several years and expanding it to New Zealand gives local customers added convenience to safely dispose of used refrigerants,” says Mark Helliar, Category Manager, Refrigeration, Actrol.
The Actrol Reclaim Refrigerant Program allows technicians to earn money back for every reclaim through a simple cylinder swap initiative.
Here’s how it works:
1. Visit your nearest Actrol store to pick up a free reclaim cylinder.
2. Recover refrigerant from the system or vessel into the reclaim cylinder.
3. Return the full reclaim cylinder to an Actrol branch.
4. Your Actrol account will automatically be credited once the refrigerant is decanted.
5. It’s as simple as that – earn money back for every reclaimed cylinder and help prevent the release of gases into the atmosphere. Every gram counts.
By providing technicians with a convenient and easy way to manage used refrigerant, this initiative seeks to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions associated with improper and illegal refrigerant disposal.
The Actrol Reclaim Refrigerant Programme is now available to account customers at Actrol branches throughout New Zealand.
Start your environmentally responsible journey by downloading Actrol’s Flexitrak app here http://www.actrol.com.au/flexitrak.
Mitchell Williamson, A-Gas New Zealand and James Hollingsworth, Branch Manager, Actrol Auckland City.
HVAC&R South: a new hub for the South Island’s HVAC&R industry
Launching at SouthMACH 2025, HVAC&R South will be a celebration of the South Island’s manufacturing heritage and a showcase of the latest technologies and solutions
Following the successful launch of the HVAC&R Hub at Auckland’s BuildNZ/Facilities Integrate trade events and the strong rebooking for 2025, IRHACE and XPO Exhibitions are thrilled to announce the debut of HVAC&R South at SouthMACH 2025. This exciting new hub will cater specifically to the HVAC&R industry in the South Island.
Held biennially, SouthMACH is the region’s premier manufacturing, engineering and technology trade event. The 2025 edition promises to be exceptional, bringing together industry leaders, experts and suppliers for two days of networking, learning and innovation.
Trade events like SouthMACH continue to be invaluable platforms for sourcing, networking and building relationships.
“Trade events like SouthMACH demonstrate the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interactions with customers, colleagues and industry peers,” says XPO’s Head of Sales, Lorraine Smith.
Several prominent industry players have already
confirmed their participation, including Holyoake, ebm-papst, and Realcold.
Returning features will include the MAKE NZ industry conference, the Innovation Quarter, and the Seminar Theatre. The Innovation Quarter will showcase the latest technology in engineering and manufacturing, while the Seminar Theatre will offer free presentations and workshops from industry experts. The Innovation Lab will also feature startups and provide free advice from product development consultants.
The inaugural HVAC&R South will be a key feature of the SouthMACH 2025, taking place on May 28-29 at Wolfbrook Arena in Christchurch. This event is a celebration of the South Island’s manufacturing heritage and a showcase of the latest technologies and solutions.
With an anticipated attendance of over 2,000 industry professionals and key decision-makers, HVAC&R South presents an unparalleled opportunity to grow your business, learn from industry leaders, and showcase your innovations. Don’t miss out on this chance to make 2025 your year of success.
The value of hiring a professional HVAC&R
Although it can be tempting to repair and service your air conditioner it’s important to leave this to the experts
They make our summers cooler and our winters more tolerable, so it’s important to keep our air conditioner/ heat pump systems functioning at their best. This means regular maintenance and repairs. However, there are many reasons this shouldn’t be attempted by anyone who isn’t a professional:
Safety
All heat pump/air conditioning systems are different, with many parts integral to their operation. Hiring a professional HVAC technician provides peace of mind that the service or repair will be addressed by an expert. It’s important to always ensure your technician has the right New Zealand licencing, which must be held by any person carrying out work on air conditioning and heat pump equipment. You can easily find a professional on the HVAC&R Centre website.
Warranty
The guaranteed result of hiring a trained technician means the warranty on your equipment will be protected. Some warranties can become void if an unlicensed person works on your heat pump/air conditioner.
Long-term efficiency and health
A professional service is recommended every one to two years, depending on usage, to ensure the system operates as smoothly as possible. Regular servicing also helps pick up any potential issues before they become major problems. A clean HVAC system is beneficial to your health as the system won’t circulate unclean air.
HVAC&R technician
conditioner and heat pump yourself, experts
Cost-savings
Hiring a professional can mean the difference between a reasonable bill and a small fortune. Technicians will know when parts need repairing or replacing and can look or test to see if another part may be broken or showing signs of wear and tear and will need replacing in the near future.
The Perfect Commisioning System
testo 570s, the digital manifolds with 4-way valve block, Bluetooth and large data memory, are opening up the future of intelligent longterm measurement on refrigeration and HVAC Industries.
testo 770-3 Clamp Meter
testo 560i Digital Refrigerant Scale and intelligent valve for automatic and precise refrigerant charging according to target superheat, subcooling, and refrigerant weight.
testo 570s
Smart Digital Manifold
testo 770-3, the most powerful clamp meter, ideal for current measurement in switching cabinets. It is perfect for measuring tasks in tight application environments.
testo 560i Digital Scale & Valve
Air conditioning fit-out for a residential apartment complex in Tauranga
All Seasons Air Conditioning worked with Daikin to install air conditioning units across four levels of residential apartments and one level of commercial space at a new, premium mixed-use development located in the heart of Tauranga city
Daikin dealer, All Seasons Air Conditioning, was approached to carry out a design and construct project, providing a premium air conditioning solution for the multi-use Vantage building development. Each apartment was required to have its own power bill, which includes the cost of air conditioning based on usage. Maintaining a sleek aesthetic was also a key part of the brief – with each apartment featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and high ceilings, there was a need for controlled air supply, however, the client wished to ensure any units wouldn’t impede on the open kitchen/living room spaces.
For the ground-level commercial tenancies, the air conditioning system needed to be adaptable to accommodate future layouts and fit within the limited space available – balconies, the roof, and parking lot spaces were off limits for the installation of the condensers.
The solution
Daikin VRV systems were chosen to provide a comprehensive solution for the building’s air conditioning needs.
For the apartments
Each floor of residential apartments has been equipped with:
• Single VRV R Heat Recovery (REYQ-TAY1) condenser paired with either a cassette (FXFSQ-AVM) or mid-static ducted (FXSQ-PAVE) indoor units, multiport BS box and BRC1E63 ‘Nav Ease’ wall mounted controllers.
• Single VRV H Heat Pump (RXYQ-AYM) condenser with Outdoor Air Processing unit (FXMQ-MFV1) for tempered outdoor air supply.
VRV R Heat Recovery systems comprise of a single outdoor unit with vertical discharge, a branch selector box and multiple indoor units, allowing for flexibility with simultaneous cooling and heating operations. To accommodate this project’s aesthetic requirements and tight ceiling spaces, round flow cassette indoor units with sensing (FXFSQ-AVM) were selected for the living rooms of lower-level apartments. For a discreet, sleek look, FXSQ-PAVE ducted slim mid-static units were used for the penthouses – leaving visible only the supply diffusers and return air grille.
The ease of installation and maintenance, along with individually adjustable airflow direction for each air discharge outlet, ensures optimal air distribution throughout each room.
For the commercial spaces
The commercial tenancy spaces have been equipped with three VRV R Heat Recovery (REYQ-TAY1) condensers, multiport BS boxes, cassette (FXFSQ-AVM), high static ducted units (FXMQ-PAVE) and BRC1E63 wall-mounted controllers.
In addition, an ITM central controller with an activated Power Proportional Distribution (PPD) function has been installed. This feature allows for efficient energy monitoring and accurate billing for the tenancies.
Control solutions
Intelligent Touch Manager (iTM), Daikin’s advanced central controller was installed in the main switchboard. iTM allows efficient control over all the air conditioning systems in the building. Additionally, the Power Proportional Distribution (PPD) function enables monitoring of power consumption for each indoor unit to assist with calculating electricity bills for every apartment or tenancy.
BRC1E63 wall-mounted controllers were chosen to be installed in the apartments’ living rooms/tenancies for convenience and comfort. These controllers come equipped with a built-in temperature sensor and a range of user-friendly functions from setting the perfect temperature and airflow rate to creating a weekly schedule and utilising the off-timer.
All Seasons Air Conditioning’s collaboration with Daikin’s latest product resulted in a successful design and construction solution for this commercial tenancy and luxury apartment development, meeting all the customer’s specific requirements. Close collaboration with the builder and other contractors on site ensured the seamless and timely delivery of this project.
daikin.co.nz
allseasonsair.co.nz
60 YEARS OF SERVICE FOR ALAN JAFFE
Seventy-two years in the HVAC industry – what an achievement. Alan Jaffe recently reached the 60-year member milestone for IRHACE and was presented an award by President Phil Mohan. Alan recently wrote an article, Insight to a 60+ year career in HVAC&R
The inaugural street party in Howick was a vibrant event with the car park bustling with suppliers creatively displaying their products from trucks, vans, and utes, and there was an engaging atmosphere. With banners waving and unique displays catching people’s attention, there were plenty of opportunities to explore their product ranges.
Our partners were in attendance and fostered meaningful conversations and valuable networking. Events like this strengthen industry connections and inspire future collaborations.
The quick-fire product presentations allowed many suppliers to showcase their offerings. These presentations have been recorded and will be accessible on our YouTube channel.
Our intention is to bring this format to
regions and smaller towns across New Zealand. The ease of setup and the effective display approach make it an appealing concept. This initiative certainly has the potential to create impactful industry events nationwide.
Refspecs
SIMX
Wire & Fittings
Oceania Gas Safety
HVAC&R Depot
Actrol
WHY I ENJOY MECHANICAL SERVICES
It takes a village to build a village
Summerset St Johns is set in the heart of the eastern suburbs of Auckland. Each building is custom-designed to meet specific needs including single splits, chilled water and tempered fresh air.
Hear from Cam Crawford, Chillex Group, about why he loves mechanical building services –from the top of Building D and E at Summerset Retirement Village in St Johns, Auckland.
Regional workshop in Auckland
Competenz launched its first regional workshop in Auckland, uniting employers and Competenz training advisors across various industries for a day packed with valuable insights and collaboration.
Jackie Messam from RippleED led an impactful session, presenting recent research on work-based learning and offering practical guidance for supporting apprentices, building skills and boosting confidence in training environments.
The day included an exchange of best practices and discussions on the traits of effective trainers and developing actionable steps for ongoing development.
If you are interested in attending a workshop in your area connect with your training advisor or register your interest at events@competenz.org.nz
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