Builders & Contractors Magazine, Issue #115

Issue #115 - 2019

CONSTRUCTION AND IMMIGRATION Smart plays in a tight enviroment

5

THE PRICE OF UNPRODUCTIVE WORK Construction firms are paying the price for sloppy labour

ways to win contracts when you're not the lowest price

Building management The benefits of a sustainable approach to building maintenance

BUILT TO LAST

Weighing up weathertightness

Boosting mid-rise timber construction When can you do building work that doesn't have a consent?

Diversity – the key to construction success

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Issue #115 - B&C | 3

Contents, Issue #115 - 2019 Page: 12

Page: 81

Contents

Welcome

- publisher's note This issue of Builders & Contractors looks at a key element to any operation, no matter what their field of expertise – the price of unproductive work, as it’s been revealed that NZ/AUS construction firms lose NZ$53b each year in labour costs due to sub-par labour.

6:

Construction and immigration – smart plays in a tight environment

6:

How to build an effective team

7:

Making technology work for you

8:

Page: 27

24: Holden’s Colorado Z71 Xtreme

70: Green building benefits

25: NZIQS and AIQS announce BIM

72: Built to last – weighing up

26: Diversity – the key to

When can you do building work that doesn’t have a consent?

best practice guidelines

construction success

28: Fatigue and flexible working

10: The price of unproductive work

11:

32: How to eliminate the potential

Peter Ravn is the country’s top carpentry apprentice

14: Five keys for winning jobs when

you’re not the lowest price

arrangements in building, construction and other trades

36: Accessman enters its 25th year 39: Crane Association soars to

15: The initiative to improve

Throughout the magazine, features provide insights into successful companies and organisations, and the people working in them, and as always, we thank all our columnists for their expertise, along with the views, opinions and predictions of all those who contributed, to help you manage the risks your face each and every day.

18: Why a sustainable approach to

58: HERA is inspiring revolutionary

20: Avoiding accessibility

60: How the NZDAA is setting

Kiwi homes

16: Boosting mid-rise timber

construction

building maintenance makes sense

building pitfalls

23: NZIOB to host inaugural

BIMinNZ conference

Builders and Contractors, a national trade newspaper targeted directly at New Zealand's building and construction industry.

For some time we were aware that, although the building and related trades were generally covered individually by some trade journals, there was no amalgamated news link for trades as a whole, especially on a nationwide basis.

Published Quarterly/Nationwide Distribution

Readers: Construction/building industry

leaders and decision makers: government & trade organisations, site safe members, business owners and professionals in the industry.

Nationwide Distribution: Mailed directly to a carefully maintained list of decision makers and subscribers for 25 years.

FREE distribution maximises readership 4 | B&C - Issue #115

This void has been successfully filled by Builders & Contractors. Distribution is by way of various outlets: PlaceMakers, Mitre 10, Builders Hardware, I.T.M., Carters, Site Safe Members, Home Ideas Centre, timber companies, hire companies, together with our database direct mail drop to architects, draughting professionals, consulting engineers, building consultants, designers and local Councils. By these means we aim to reach one of the most powerful buying groups in the industry.

new heights

55: Reinforcing steel: the past, present

and future

change in metal innovation

excellent standards

66: The Concrete NZ Learned Society is

weathertightness

74: FTMA conference addresses

key issues

76:

EH Ball ITM’s comprehensive joinery, frame-and-truss and building product range

80: How the AWCI represents the

interests of building professionals

of a fall

We also look at why a sustainable approach to building maintenance is good for business, five keys for winning jobs when you’re not the lowest price, and investigate when you can do building work that doesn’t have a consent.

driven by technical excellence

84: Focus on Christchurch and Canterbury 92: Infrastructure funding for Queenstown

Lakes District

94: Marlborough Long Term Plan

proposal adopted

96:

FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire

97:

Shepherd & Kime

Cover image: The Holcim Cement Dome project in Timaru.

Image provided courtesy of Design Engineering, who you can read about on page 45.

Does your company have any exciting projects or products you would like to feature in an upcoming edition of Builders & Contractors?

Please contact us to discuss: Editorial/Production: Alena Smith 120 Maces Road, Bromley Christchurch 8062 PO Box 19607, Woolston, Christchurch, 8241 Phone: (03) 376 5120 Email: production@markat.co.nz

Sales Manager: Gary Collins

120 Maces Road, Bromley Christchurch 8062 PO Box 19607, Woolston, Christchurch, 8241 Phone: (03) 376 5120

Disclaimer This publication is provided on the basis that The Job Agency T|A Markat is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. A-Mark Publishing expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2017 by A-Mark Publishing (NZ) Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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Issue #115 - B&C | 5

Viewpoints

Construction and immigration Smart plays in a tight environment

How to build an effective team

By Craig Hudson, New Zealand managing director at Xero

If there’s one thing that I value the most as a leader, it’s having the best team around me to help the business perform to its potential.

By Marcus Beveridge and Tina Hwang from Queen City Law

WHAT ARE THE VISA OPTIONS TO ASSIST WITH THE CONSTRUCTION WORKER SHORTAGE?

no available Kiwis to fill the situation vacant.

You will have certainty that the employee can work for you for at least 30 months.

NZ is desperately seeking 50,000 construction workers over the next five years. This is excluding the government’s KiwiBuild programme which anticipates to building in excess of 100,000 houses over the next 10 years.

More importantly, you can also support your employee and secure a residence visa without having to go through the Skill Migrant Category which is extremely difficult at the moment as the points threshold is so high at the moment at 160 points. This will be seen as an excellent option by your staff and should engender real loyalty.

Given the changes under the Essential Skills Work Visa instruction, it is getting harder to fill the skill shortage in the construction industry. It is also getting harder for employers to retain and keep good employees given it is more difficult to secure residence under the Skilled Migrant Category.

From an employer’s perspective, there is no certainty that they can secure the skills they need, employ people they want and retain such employees.

This is why being an Accredited Employer has significant advantages as it gives employers certainty that they can fill the skills gap in their business. The current immigration framework makes it very appealing to become an Accredited Employer.

The main criteria is that the job offer must pay at least $55,000.00 per annum.

HOW DO I QUALIFY? The basic requirements are as follows: • Your business must be in a sound financial position • Your business must have a high standard of human resource policies and processes • Your business must demonstrate commitment to training and employing NZ citizens or residence class visa holders • Your business must have good workplace practices with a history of compliance with immigration and employment laws.

It’s so critical to get the right people on your team because they can absolutely make the difference between the success and failure of your business. When everyone is working together to achieve common goals, business can really hum.

But I’ve found that forming an amazing team takes time, patience and many hours of CV reading.

When I came back to New Zealand as country manager of Xero, I had to build my entire leadership team from scratch. I was essentially doing four roles by myself, but I hired really slowly, to ensure I got the right people. Hundreds of CVs came across my desk and a lot of them really blew me away. I had a heap of interviews and met a lot of people.

"

Hire slow. Don’t feel like you have to rush to fill a gap. Take your time, get the right person and hire for common values.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

WHAT IS AN ACCREDITED EMPLOYER? When the Accredited Employer programme was created in 2001 by the then Minister of Immigration, the Honourable Lianne Dalziel, the intention was to make NZ more competitive as a destination for highly talented and skilled individuals by giving them a pathway to residence. The size and scale of the businesses that were accredited was typically for larger companies.

This is no longer the case, the Accredited Employer programme is now being utilised to fill the skills shortages. For example, Accredited Employers are becoming accredited so they can employ heavy machine operators and truck drivers. And it has just been reported that a crane operator shortage is slowing New Zealand’s building boom.

Essentially, your business will need to apply to Immigration NZ to achieve this status.

Once granted, you will have the ability to sponsor migrant workers without having to go through the sometimes cumbersome and costly Labour Market Test to prove there are 6 | B&C - Issue #115

• Ability to streamline the work visa process as the local labour market test is not required • Your business will have the ability to retain workers as there is a pathway to residence. After working for your company for two years a reasonably straightforward residence application is possible (character, medical and 24 months PAYE records) • Goodwill created from being an Accredited Employer • The requirements to qualify for a work visa is more straightforward. Essentially, the applicant simply needs a job offer with a salary of at least $55,000.00 per annum.

Please note that there has been a lot of talk about reviewing this threshold but it is understood that there will be no change given concerns expressed from a regional point of view • Conditions on the work visa are also not geographically restricted • The principal applicant can support their partner and children.

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Underpinning structure around common values means you can get into a room with a diverse group and challenge each other, but still walk out as friends, and it’s this type of environment that really drives a business forward.

Hiring a new team member is even more difficult for small business owners though, because they are effectively jacks of all trades.

There’s also the difficulty of deciding how much money you want to invest in your new employee – do you go for the low cost option of hiring someone junior and see how it goes, or do you overhire, stretching yourself with the idea of spending money to make money?

The best option can totally depend on the life cycle of your business, but hiring the right level of experience at the right time can have a huge impact.

"

The first step in the recruiting process for me, was simply to be able to have a coffee and a conversation with them, and see whether they meet my ‘no dickheads’ policy.

If I can’t easily spend half an hour with someone in an informal setting, they aren’t going to be a right fit for the team. Taking your time is vital, particularly if they are going to be in a leadership role, to ensure you have the right people to drive the business forward.

Chemistry is really important – if I had to choose between someone with amazing skills on paper, or someone that has the ‘X factor’ and really gels with me and the team, I’m going to choose chemistry every time.

I can teach you the skills that you need, but if you don’t align with the culture and values of our team, you’re probably not going to be able to do anything for me – and worse, you could actually be detrimental to the business.

Hiring for diversity is also something I’m incredibly passionate about. I’m driven by bringing diversity of thought into the

business. Whether that’s gender diversity, ethnic diversity or diversity of a team member’s background, it’s important to have a good mix.

Here are my five top tips for getting the right people on your team: 1. Implement a ‘no dickheads’ policy. Make sure the people coming into your business add incredible value, not only to the skill set, but especially the culture.

2. Hire slow. Don’t feel like you have to rush to fill a gap. Take your time, get the right person and hire for common values.

3. Don’t only look for formal education, or formal skill set. Look for aptitude and someone that you’re able to move into the right role. Go a little bit deeper than that piece of paper.

4. At the right time, don’t be scared to hire someone with the right skill set that might cost a little bit more, to maximise your business’ opportunity.

5. Be incredibly purpose driven. Understand why you’re in business and articulate that clearly as a leader, so everyone in your business understands what the purpose is.

Ultimately, your team wants to come to work and do a great job. If they come through the doors in the morning and they don’t know how they’re contributing to that bigger picture, then you’re not going to get the maximum opportunity out of them every single day.

Viewpoints

Moving from sales manager to sales leader

Making technology work for you

By Iain Dunstan, IncentiaPay CEO and acting Bartercard CEO for Australia and New Zealand

Few sales managers are born with the critical leadership abilities needed to overcome today’s challenges. However, sales managers can be transformed into sales leaders.

With today’s digital world transacting 24/7, it’s no wonder business owners are working harder to keep up with the demand.

So, what can be done to keep your business front of mind to attract and retain new customers and how can you work smarter, so you can enjoy some well-deserved downtime?

Use an app to store them securely in one convenient place rather than wasting time resetting passwords time and time again.

Digital essentials are key to any business.

Set up automatic email responses so you’re not writing the same response over and over.

Inbound Marketing is the new buzz word. It’s no longer relevant to just rely on traditional advertising methods, your business will be more effective if your customers are also coming to you.

This automation feature lets you pre-type and store standard email responses, then, when the time comes to send a response, just select the appropriate one and click send.

A multitude of inbound strategies have been developed, all designed to attract, convert, close and delight your inbound customers but you must keep up with the times.

Now is the time to get your business working harder, allowing you the time to focus on the strategic parts of your business.

SEO is constantly changing, so the blog post, website pop up or eBook that worked yesterday might not be as effective today.

Hand in hand with inbound marketing is automation. Automating your processes at every stage is key to taking your customer on a journey, building brand awareness and ultimately resulting in a sale.

Do you have a digital strategy in place? If not, now is the time to start thinking about one.

"

Store information and collaborate in real time with the likes of Dropbox Business and OneNote.

Automate your HR processes.

"

It’s crucial to know who your customers are.

Who are you wanting to target? What are their About Bartercard needs? What solutions can you provide?

Bartercard was founded on the Gold Coast, Source all the data you can and take the Australia, in 1991. The three founding necessary steps to strengthen your brand to attract them and retain the ones you do have. directors shared a dream and vision, to make Bartercard the world’s largest trade Knowing the basics will then allow you to exchange, expand globally and sustain a further develop your digital essentials – SEO, brand identity with a street presence. social media and retargeting your customers.

The company has led from the front through Whether you keep it in house or outsource innovating and developing systems. This it to an agency to do on your behalf, it’s organisation has also enjoyed rapid growth an important component of your overall through the development of a sophisticated business strategy, and one that shouldn’t licensing model that has been efficiently be overlooked. replicated throughout the globe.

Automating certain tasks within your business can go a long way to saving hours in your working week.

For example, automating every aspect of your sales process – use instant invoicing and email notifications for cart abandonment.

Store information and collaborate in real time with the likes of Dropbox Business and OneNote. Automate your HR processes.

By Kevin Vincent, managing director of Vincent Consulting Limited

Following its creation in 1992, Bartercard New Zealand became the first international licensee. It was purchased by the Red Eagle Corporation, headed by Tony Falkenstein, in 2001. Since its inception the Bartercard Trade Exchange has grown to over 6,000 member businesses across New Zealand trading over $150 million worth of goods and services outside the cash economy each year.

Bartercard operates in New Zealand, Australia, United Kingdom, Thailand, United With business being transacted across so many different platforms, it’s a wonder anyone Arab Emirates, South Africa, United States of America, France, and Cyprus. can remember all of their passwords!

Vision Vision enables the sales manager to look ahead and create/plan ongoing missions or campaigns that unite and motivate the sales team.

Great sales leaders have vision; they have targets that others may not see. Essentially their targets are often located way “beyond the headlights”.

Leaders have the end in mind with defined, precise, clearly set goals and milestones that will realise maximum potential in them, for their companies and their colleagues. Their vision and goals are BIG. Napoleon once said “imagination rules the world”. Einstein believed, “imagination is more important than knowledge, for knowledge is limited to what we know and understand”.

Sales leaders are visionary with imagination to see beyond what others see. They become market leaders gaining first mover advantage, becoming first to mind and enjoy the resultant abundance of the fruit of their labour, intuition and courage.

Decision making Decision making is critical to effective leadership. Leaders who make bad decisions are not leaders for long.

Know-it-all sales managers actually don’t!

Every decision or choice that is made will have consequences – good or bad and sales leaders make good decisions based on using good processes of understanding the issues, identifying the problems, generating sound alternatives and choosing the right options.

Sales leaders often choose to use consensus as a model to be inclusive and engaging with their teams. In effect, gaining their buy in.

We all know that in the majority of cases a group decision will have a better result than one taken in isolation.

Sales Leaders have the ability to understand the “how” in getting their “batting averages” up. No one wants to follow a sales leader who shoots from the hip, delays decisions, or has a low percentage of “right” decisions.

Salespeople are motivated by leaders who have a good batting average, and respond decisively.

"

Sales leaders are visionary with imagination to see beyond what others see.

They become market leaders gaining first mover advantage, becoming first to mind and enjoy the resultant abundance of the fruit of their labour, intuition and courage.

"

Sales leaders don’t pursue mediocrity but strive to and are encouraged by the stretch needed to achieve their targets.

They know gaining success is dependent on the numbers. Numbers of prospects, numbers of qualified prospects, conversion rates, return on investment, revenue and margins.

Empathy Understanding and influencing the sales team is always a challenge. That’s why emphasis is placed on empathy, communication style and motivation.

Oprah Winfrey in Daniel Pink’s book “A Whole New Mind” captures well the concept as it relates to leading sales teams.

“Leadership is about empathy. It is about having the ability to relate to and connect with people for the purpose of inspiring and empowering their lives,” she wrote.

Sales leaders must practice situational leadership and understand how to identify and support the motivational needs of each of their sales team colleagues.

Personal qualities like empathy, trust, ethics, integrity, honesty, listening skills, responsiveness and role modelling are of the utmost importance.

Sales leaders' handshakes mean something and their word is always good.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 7

News

When can you do building work that doesn't require consent?

Commerical lawyer, Geoff Hardy

Building consents are a mixed blessing to most people. If you want to build something on your own property, then you might regard them as an unnecessary intrusion of local government into your life; an expense and a delay that you can well do without.

On the other hand, if it is someone else’s building project, and particularly if it is a public building, then you might regard the building consent process as an essential quality control and health and safety precaution that ensures our buildings operate the way they are supposed to and don’t kill and maim people like they do in less-regulated countries where corruption and dishonesty are rife.

In New Zealand the situation is very simple.

You must not carry out any building work except in accordance with a building consent.

If you do, you are liable to a fine of up to $200,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a further fine not exceeding $10,000 for every day or part of a day during which the offence has continued.

However, it would obviously be overkill to require you to obtain a building consent if you were just going to build a letterbox, so there are some exceptions to the rule, most of which are set out in Schedule 1 to the Building Act. Nevertheless the general rule is, unless an exception applies, you must have a building consent for everything. And regardless of whether a building consent is required, the second rule is that all building work must comply with the building code (to the extent required by the Building Act). The Building Code is contained in Schedule 1 of the Building Regulations 1992.

So there are two things you need to check when you are about to undertake building work – whether you are exempted from the requirement to obtain a building consent, and if so, whether anything in the building code applies to what you are planning to do.

agree that the variation from the consented plans is perfectly acceptable. But the point is, the council has to agree first. If they haven’t done so, then you have done (some) building work that has not been consented, and you have broken the law.

In addition to those two, you may also need to check whether your project requires a consent under other laws such as the Resource Management Act 1991, the District Plan, the Building Act provisions relating to the fencing of swimming pools, or the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996. In practice, most people will need to ask a specialist such as an architect, engineer, builder, building surveyor, or council employee.

You can take the risk and hope that the council will approve the variation once it is in place, and many times you will get away with it. That is typically referred to as getting approval on the basis of “as-built plans”.

Even sensible changes need to be approved first To get a building consent you have to tell the Ccouncil what you are planning to do, in writing, in considerable detail. It is the council’s job to decide whether the proposed work complies with the Building Code, and it can’t do that without knowing a lot about the project.

Most of the detail is in the plans and specifications submitted with the building consent application. Once approved, the building consent is a permission for you to do the building work exactly as per those plans and specifications. You have some flexibility, in the sense that you can choose how to go about certain tasks provided the finished product is consistent with the consent, but you can’t do something different from what the plans and specifications call for. Not even a little bit.

This is what catches out so many property owners and builders in practice. They assume that “near enough is good enough” or that if they know a better way of doing something, they can do it.

The frustrating thing is, on many occasions they are right, and the council will readily

But if the council doesn’t agree, or if you have covered up the work before they get to see it, then they can require you to apply for a certificate of acceptance that requires you to prove that it did comply with the Building Code, or they can issue a notice to fix requiring you to dismantle and rebuild it.

In addition, in blatant cases you can be prosecuted and fined. And if you are a licensed builder then you can be disciplined by the Building Practitioners Board, irrespective of whether your variation was a smart idea or not. You may have complied with the Building Code, but you didn’t prove that to the Council first.

Sometimes getting approval is simple It sounds like a pain having to ask the council every time for permission to depart from the consented plans and specifications, and in many cases it can be.

If the variation is more than minor then you have to apply for an amendment to the building consent before you can do any part of that variation, which involves getting additional plans drawn up, putting up with more delays, and sometimes paying more fees.

However, it is less of an imposition if the proposed variation is “minor”, because then the council’s building inspector can approve it as soon as you can get him or her around to the site.

You still have to produce some documentary evidence of the proposed variation for the building inspector to sign and put on the council file, but that can be as little as a note on the inspection sheet, or a sketch on a plan. Occasionally some new designs will have to be produced but once again these can be approved on site or at the council offices.

A minor variation is defined as one that does not deviate “significantly” from the consented plans and specifications.

For example, substituting one internal lining for a similar internal lining, substituting one brand of insulation for another, reducing the level of timber treatment, changing copper piping to polyethylene, making minor wall bracing changes, changing the framing method used around a window, or changing the position of fixtures in a bathroom or kitchen.

The building owner is primarily responsible for obtaining a building consent and for obtaining approval of any variations. But noone can “carry out” any building work except in accordance with a building consent. That means that the builder can’t escape liability by arguing that it wasn’t his responsibility or he assumed it was taken care of. He cannot start on the variation until it has been consented to. It’s as simple as that.

Geoff Hardy has 43 years’ experience as a commercial lawyer and is a partner in the Auckland firm Martelli McKegg. He guarantees personal attention to new clients at competitive rates. His phone number is (09) 379 0700, fax (09) 309 4112, and e-mail geoff@martellimckegg.co.nz. This article is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice.

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Issue #115 - B&C | 9

News

The price of unproductive work Construction firms lose NZ$53b pa in labour costs on unproductive work ‘Unproductive work’ is costing construction businesses in New Zealand and Australia nearly NZ#$53 billion a year, according to new research.

The findings are part of a survey of the global construction industry covering 599 respondents internationally. The Construction Disconnected research included 80 construction leaders and decision makers from New Zealand and Australia.

Tomy Praveen, the Asia Pacific managing director of construction productivity software provider PlanGrid, which partnered in the research, says the project reviewed how teams spend their time while on a jobsite.

It also studied the challenges associated with poor data management practices and miscommunication, and companies’ technology investments.

“Construction companies on both sides of the Tasman are losing a third of all working hours to unproductive activities.

“That equates to over NZ$53 billion a year in financial waste.”

The research found that each construction worker on a jobsite spends 11.5 hours every week on non-optimal tasks.

The most time-consuming unproductive activities are: looking for project information (4.9 hours), conflict resolution (3.4 hours) and dealing with mistakes and rework (3.2 hours).

This comes despite most businesses (46 percent) saying improving productivity is the main reason behind their technology investments to date.

Construction firms’ productivity is being hindered by poor data and communications.

According to the survey, the most common reasons for tasks taking longer than expected are: poor communication between stakeholders (29 percent), lack of confidence in data accuracy (23 percent), and delays getting data (18 percent).

In addition to causing inefficiency, these shortcomings are contributing to expensive mistakes; poor data and communications alone cause a total of $8.4 billion in rework across the region each year.

"

Businesses have a made a positive start by investing in technology; now there is a great opportunity to refine their approach by choosing tools tailored to the needs of employees on the jobsite.

- Tomy Praveen, Asia Pacific managing director, PlanGrid

Trust us to deliver when we say we will.

“New Zealand’s KiwiBuild initiative is calling for innovative technology and productive construction to drive down costs and make housing more affordable,” Tomy says.

“Investing in the right technology on jobsites will deliver savings and reduce rework, not just for the residential market, but any major construction project in the heavy civil, commercial and residential sectors.

“Bringing field workers into the conversation when selecting technology will not only benefit individual firms but help to keep construction in New Zealand and Australia at the forefront of the industry worldwide.”

Team member Norman York Easysteel Auckland

Tomy says firms are turning to technology to address the challenges caused by poor data and communication.

Based on survey responses, the top purchasing drivers behind investments in digital tools are: improving the accessibility (36 percent) and accuracy (34 percent) of project data.

No one likes surprises, and we know it’s hard to plan without the right information. We make sure to give you a delivery window when you place an order (or a $50 credit’s coming your way*). It’s that easy.

For more information on our service promises call 0800 EASYSTEEL (0800 327 978) or visit thesteelpromise.co.nz *See Terms & Conditions

10 | B&C - Issue #115

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However, the report points to a disconnect between the priorities of those selecting technology and the needs of field workers.

At present, technology is purchased mainly to suit the needs of the office (54 percent) rather than workers in the field (36 percent).

Only 17 percent of firms considered gathering feedback from potential users of solutions before making the purchase.

“Construction firms in Australia and New Zealand are experiencing a concerning productivity shortfall.

"

“Although many companies have started to invest in technology, these tools aren’t meeting the needs of workers on the jobsite where real performance improvements can be made. As a result, firms aren’t getting the full value of their technology spend and productivity is lagging, while employees are left disconnected and disengaged.”

The use of mobile phones highlights the technology gap between the office and the jobsite. While 44 percent of construction firms give mobile devices to project managers, only eight percent actually use those tools consistently for accessing data or collaborating with other stakeholders.

Where technology fails to meet expectations, it is due to these solutions being a poor fit with existing working practices (39 percent) or technology (11 percent), as well as inadequate training (11 percent).

“Businesses have a made a positive start by investing in technology; now there is a great opportunity to refine their approach by choosing tools tailored to the needs of employees on the jobsite,” said Praveen.

“Embracing technology will improve performance on every project by reducing errors, improving communications and enhancing employee engagement. Bringing field workers into the conversation when selecting technology will not only benefit individual firms but help to keep construction in Australia and New Zealand at the forefront of the industry worldwide.”

News

Christchurch apprentice wins Registered Master Builders CARTERS Apprentice of the Year

Cutting the cost, not the quality

Peter Ravn from Christchurch – winner of the Registered Master Builders CARTERS 2018 Apprentice of the Year.

Peter Ravn from Christchurch has been named the country’s top carpentry apprentice, taking out the title of Registered Master Builders CARTERS 2018 Apprentice of the Year.

Peter went head to head with nine other national finalists, in a tough six-hour practical challenge.

They were tasked with building a complex garden station that put their skills to the test.

Peter, 26, is employed by Armitage Williams Construction Ltd and was trained through the BCITO. Corbin Mills, 22, from New Plymouth, employed by B D Hill Building Limited and trained through the BCITO, placed second in the competition. Third place was awarded to Kyle Tonks, 22, from Porirua, who is employed by Tonks Residential Construction Ltd and trained through the BCITO. The competition judges said Peter was an outstanding all-rounder and gave a solid performance throughout the competition.

“To be successful in this industry, you must be an all-rounder. Peter demonstrated high competency across all aspects of the competition,” they said.

“Peter had a good submission, was a great communicator in his interview, and displayed high quality skills in the practical challenge.

“He shows maturity and passion for his craft, with a clear vision to be an industry leader.

His professionalism is admirable. A worthy winner of the 2018 Apprentice of the Year.”

The two-day national competition saw each of the 10 finalists undergo a 45-minute individual interview with the judging panel.

This was followed by the challenging practical component, the garden station build.

All 10 garden stations will be donated to local schools and are designed to help children learn about growing food. The challenge took place in front of an audience of family,

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friends and the general public at the ASB Showgrounds.

Registered Master Builders chief executive, David Kelly says it was great to see the young apprentices demonstrate such a high level of skill so early in their careers.

“For 14 years Apprentice of the Year has been showcasing and rewarding the best and brightest of our industry’s apprentices. They are our future leaders and have demonstrated high craft standards throughout the competition. They are an inspiration to those looking to join the industry.”

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Kelly also says the competition acknowledges and celebrates the employers that contribute to the industry by investing in young talent.

“We need more employers to invest their time, skills and energy into training apprentices. It’s great to see so many companies entering their apprentices into the competition year after year, and we applaud them for their ongoing and continued investment in young talent.”

Supporting the competition for the 14th year running is principal sponsor CARTERS. CARTERS chief executive Mike Guy says they were incredibly proud to be involved in helping support the careers of such a talented group of apprentices.

“Apprentice of the Year reflects CARTERS’ dedication to supporting New Zealand’s apprentices through investing in training and mentoring. Attracting young talent to our industry is essential to the success of New Zealand’s booming construction sector,” he says.

“We congratulate Peter and all the finalists for their commitment and passion for the industry and we look forward to seeing them make their mark on the industry.”

Apprentices, employers and young people aspiring to be a part of the construction industry are encouraged to join the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ registeredmasterbuilders.

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

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Issue #115 - B&C | 11

Green Way

Sustainable deconstruction "

Green Way’s remediation project of 66 state residential properties in Northcote, Auckland has proven that placing a strong emphasis on recycling is not only good for the environment, but can be cost effective.

This project showed that recycling can and should be done. It can happen when you’ve got a good client and everything on site is working together, then you meet time lines while ensuring excellent health and safety and recycling.

“This project showed that recycling can and should be done,” site manager Hugh McLaughlin says. “It can happen when you’ve got a good client and everything on site working together, then you meet time lines while ensuring excellent health and safety and recycling.”

Green Way was the principal contractor for demolition, site clearance and site remediation for a Housing Land and Community’s (HLC) – a subsidiary of Housing New Zealand (HNZ) – redevelopment of the overall site for future housing by Housing New Zealand and private developers.

The emphasis on recycling resulted in some impressive outcomes, Hugh says. Among these were: • Clearance of asbestos from all 66 properties

- Hugh McLaughlin

Community donations

Green Gorilla

Along with relocating three complete houses, Green Way was able to recycle many products, which were donated to local community groups, including:

Through Green Gorilla, the recycling and waste service, Green Way was able to recycle vast quantiities of gypsum, which was used for fertiliser, cardboard, paper, steel, clean soil, hardfill, and untreated timber.

• Appliances, many of which went to HNZ clients

Operations manager Phillip Ainsworth says they achieved 93 percent recycling and estimates that the extraction of products for fuel alone will provide enough energy to run 14 homes for two years.

• Removal of 66 properties from the site, 32 single storey dwellings and 34 double story

• 20 internal doors, 20 timber planks, 20 internal door hinges to construct a bike hub for HLC

• Relocation of three complete houses for reuse

• Three tin sheds and four carports, sold and given to members of the public

• Removal of approximately 12,000 tonnes of asbestos contaminated soil (ACM).

Under strict controls the soil was carted to the licenced Waste Management Landfill at Redvale • The use of 200-micron polythene to line trucks and trailers. A large scaffold tower was erected on site to enable the safe wrapping of the ACM trucks • An industrial size wheel wash positioned at the exit of the site for the trucks to leave site clean, and to prevent any contaminated material or soil leaving site.

• Fruit trees, replanted by employees • Metal gate and fencing given to Northcote Primary School • Fencing used by employees

Involvement of local community Green Way was aware that they were working in a residential area, and it was more than just buildings they were demolishing, it was people’s homes.

Therefore, they got the local community involved through every stage.

• Various demolition material given to public for reuse, including 10 metres of fencing and 40 square pavers

Question and answer sessions were held at the local child-care facility, so teachers would be fully informed and all concerns could be addressed. Teachers could then relay information to the parents.

• Five metres of fencing salvaged to make the ‘sharing shed’ food box for people in need.

The company also interacted with local residents. “People would drop by and tell the guys about what had happened in the

"

area, and they liked hearing what was happening to their homes, and that so much of it was being recycled,” Phillip says.

He said it was also a policy of Green Way to maintain a clean and tidy site at all times, and this was appreciated by the local community.

Health and safety Along with ensuring that everything possible was recycled, Green Way also made stringent health and safety protocols a priority.

Stefan Masutti, the health and safety and quality environment manager, says from day one Green Way placed a strong emphasis on health and safety, to ensure everyone on site was on board.

Daily tool box meetings were held and health and safety was seen as the responsibility of everyone, from the guys on the tools up to the managers.

And this approach worked. Independent audits by Site Safe scored Green Way at 100 percent, and Work Safe was also very happy with all asbestos controls and the way the site was run.

Green Way has won the HLC Health and Safety shout for the last three consecutive months at Northcote (October, November and December) and strives to continually improve its health and safety culture with the use of accurate incident reporting and site report cards.

Green Way director Sebastian Jonsson says along with excellent work by everyone at Green Way, the success of the project was also due to working with an excellent client in HLC, and with the help and support of RCP, the client’s representative and engineer to the contract, and Golders, the asbestos consultant.

Green Way 15-17 Shaddock St Eden Terrace Auckland (09) 972 0674

info@greenway.net.nz www.greenway.net.nz 12 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Green Way

Smarter, safer, better – do it the Green Way. Specialising in sustainable, innovative deconstruction since 2013.

We’re not daunted by surprises - every job throws up its share.

On the contrary, we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt and overcome roadblocks.

The result? Sustainable, innovative deconstruction solutions. Ones that minimise waste going Which, in turn, means saving the planet and more savings for you.

Green Way services: • Deconstruction

• Asbestos encapsulation

• Bulk excavation

• Demolition

• Strip-out

• Site clearance

• Asbestos removal

• Engineered concrete removal

• Asbestos management

• Civil works

CONTACT US TODAY Green Way Limited 09 972 0674 info@greenway.net.nz

Eden Terrace,

www.greenway.net.nz

Auckland 1021

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 13

News

Five keys for winning jobs when you're not the lowest price Lost out to a cowboy again!

Local builder Josh is fuming. He’s just learned (through the grapevine) that he’s missed out on the King Street reno. The local cowboy has undercut him again! By nearly a third this time.

But there’s no way he could have made any money at a rate that low. At that price, would have only covered the materials and labour.

He’d had an inkling when scoping the job that Mike (the client) might be shopping around. The job looked relatively straight forward initially, but from experience, Josh knew there were a few extras that would be needed.

Josh didn’t have time to explain all this to the client that day; he needed to be at the next appointment. “Mike, don’t worry about the details mate. I’ll put it all in the quote and email it to you when I’ve got time”.

That job he thought was in the bag is gone.

These cowboys are starting to affect business. There was another job a while back where the same thing happened.

That job had come back to him when it turned to custard.

Josh won’t forget that one for a while.

Homeowner Jess came to him in a panic: “We need to finish the extensions. The baby is due next month! There are a few things that don’t look quite right, but every time I ask about them, [rogue tradie] says ‘its fine that bit won’t matter when it’s finished’, and the project is going on and on… and then he asks for more money! I don’t think he knows what he’s doing… can you please come and take a look?”

What a mess. Josh and his team did massive hours that month, but they got the job done.

It took as long to fix as it would have taken to do the whole thing right the first time.

Todd and Jess were so grateful.

But Josh felt it put too much pressure on his guys. He didn’t see much of the family that month either. These cowboys, they do it on the cheap and stuff it up every time.

What went wrong?

When Josh first scoped Mike’s job, there were a few opportunities he missed that would have put him in a better position against the lower price: • Asking the right questions early on to see if the job will be a good fit (so he didn’t waste time quoting a job he couldn’t make money off – or was never going to get). Josh still doesn’t really know if Mike wanted a cheap price no matter what, or if he took the cheap price because he didn’t know any better • Checking if Mike was the decision maker or if others were involved in deciding, like maybe his wife 14 | B&C - Issue #115

• Didn’t take the time to listen to what aspects of the job were the most important to Mike (like perhaps timeframe, quality of work, dealing with the unexpected, staying on budget) • Making sure Mike understood what was involved in doing the job right. Giving him some context around what could go wrong if the job doesn’t follow the proper steps

You want to attract the much larger majority who appreciate good workmanship and want something that will last. Who want to sleep soundly at night, with peace of mind that the work is done right and there won’t be any nasty surprises.

To give prospective clients the reassurance they need when quoting – and play to your strengths as a quality tradie – use these:

• Identifying the budget Mike had available for the job

5 KEYS FOR WINNING JOBS

• Making a detailed estimate/quote and making sure Mike understood each part (and knew what he was getting when dealing with a quality tradie like Josh). So if Mike compared the quote to another one, the difference would be obvious

• 84 percent of homeowners rank ‘punctuality’ as the most influential quality when they’re looking to hire a tradesman

• No follow-up to show he was serious about wanting the job and to address any concerns Mike might have about proceeding.

What went right?

Josh is a good builder and has a great team behind him. So although he didn’t get the job, he also knew that at twothirds of the original price, it wasn’t worth having.

Josh knows his numbers and he has a good reputation. His business is in it for the long haul so he: • Priced the job for profit (not based on gut feel, guesswork, or how he was feeling on the day) and knew that it wasn’t too high or too low • Knew his margins and at exactly what point the job wasn’t worth doing • Didn’t panic and slash his price and lose money on the job • Has high standards of workmanship and was not going to take cowboy shortcuts • Has a professional mindset. Josh knows he delivers top outcomes and quality work for his clients and that he deserves a fair reward for his efforts.

The client’s viewpoint We all like a bargain. It’s human nature.

So clients will always be tempted to go for the cheapest option if they don’t understand the reasons not to.

Here’s the thing though. Most clients you quote aren’t tradies or don’t know the details like you do. They simply don’t know why one price is more expensive than another. Unless you show them.

Remember, a certain low percentage of all buyers will decide purely on price no matter what. Let’s recognise that those jobs are often the ones that no one makes any money off and have the most problems.

Weed these ones out early. These are not the jobs you want.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

1. Turn up on time (i.e. a few minutes early)

• Tradies have a reputation for not being on time – use this to your advantage • Block time out for pricing work rather than fitting it around everything else • Quoting is an essential part of your business – so don’t label it “a hassle”.

2. Build trust People do business with people they know, like, and trust.

• Show genuine interest in the job • Respect the clients home or workplace (eg taking boots off) • Be well presented, in clean uniform • Have a professional looking van.

3. Understand your client’s motives Your goal here is to understand exactly what the client wants to achieve – and the ‘why’ behind it.

• Spend more time listening than talking • Ask lots of relevant questions • Make sure you understand what they really need • Parrot back their answers to make sure you have it right (also helps them feel understood).

4. Educate and explain • Tell them what goes into a job and what it includes, so if they are comparing, its apples to apples

Daniel Fitzpatrick

• Personalise your quote emphasising the client’s needs and priorities • Include trust builders like a professional blurb saying what sets your company apart, your quality guarantee (46 percent of clients look for this), awards, your trades association membership, qualifications, license etc • Include testimonials from happy customers, with before and after photos of your previous work • Get quotes completed quickly • Go through the quote with the client, making sure they understand exactly what they are getting.

These things will position you so that price is not the main thing.

Now you’re competing on your strengths.

When the tradies I work with get these steps right, not only do they win more jobs, but they also find clients are more appreciative of their professional expertise and are happy to pay for it.

Doing it this way won’t get you every job, but it will get you a lot more work you want at the right price.

In the clients mind, you go from being just another tradie or salesperson looking for a job – to a trusted advisor – an expert whose time and expertise is respected – worth more than Joe Average.

Some of these ideas will be new, others you may have used before. But to get results it’s about consistency – good systems that ensure these strategies happen every time, even when you’re busy.

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• Educate the client with expert advice on the different options • Let them know how you operate and why • Your job here is to help them work out the best solution for them – rather than trying to sell them.

5. Show them you’re the best • 78 percent of clients want to see a professional quote • BRANZ found “quality and reputation” is the most important feature NZ homeowners look for when choosing a builder – by far

Daniel Fitzpatrick Business Coach at Next Level Tradie www.nextleveltradie.co.nz

News

Initiative launched to improve Kiwi homes A new tool which enables anyone to assess the quality of their home has been launched by the New Zealand Green Building Council – and the organisation is excited the sector is driving adoption and use of the tool aimed at improving the housing stock.

The tool is HomeFit and for the very first time in New Zealand, it enables Kiwis to check any home to see if it is warm, safe and dry.

HomeFit works in two ways.

Firstly, there’s a free online check which all Kiwis can use to examine their own home, or a home they’re looking to buy, sell or rent.

The online check is available at homefit.org. nz and contains around 20 questions before providing a tailored report on the home, detailing how warm, safe, efficient and dry it is. And, if it isn’t, how to improve it.

Secondly, there’s an independent appraisal, carried out by a trained assessor. The assessment looks at damp, mould, insulation, heating, ventilation and other key areas. If a home passes, it is awarded a HomeFit stamp, proving that it is warm, dry, safe and efficient.

Any home awarded with a HomeFit stamp will also have passed the requirements of recent government legislation to improve

homes, the Residential Tenancies Act. And, once the Healthy Homes Standards are confirmed, the HomeFit stamp can be used to confirm if a home passes this mandatory level too.

New Zealand Green Building Council chief executive Andrew Eagles says, “The trade industry should familiarise itself with HomeFit to help educate people on the importance of living in healthy homes.

“That’s why we’ve developed HomeFit – people don’t always know what to look for to determine whether their homes in fact live up to standard warm, dry, safe and efficient conditions. HomeFit is going to make Kiwis more aware of what to look for and they will be seeking advice from the experts.”

Andrew says it’s a really special moment.

Those involved in the maintenance and operation of homes, as well as those who supply building materials are getting behind the HomeFit assessment tool. From estate agents and landlords, to house builders, tradies and property managers, the use of HomeFit as a guide will help advance the quality of New Zealand’s housing stock.

“Industry experts are starting to utilise the HomeFit tool to talk to clients, customers, home buyers and sellers about improving their homes and getting the HomeFit stamp.”

The NZGBC is also interested in hearing from those who want to apply to become NZGBC HomeFit assessors.

The appraisal system is a powerful independent demonstration that a building

meets health and warmth standards, giving potential tenants or buyers confidence in their decision-making.

Around half of New Zealand homes have visible mould. Half of New Zealand adults say they live in a cold house, and over 60 percent of Kiwis say their homes need repairs.

Cold and damp New Zealand houses have been linked to asthma, rheumatic fever and respiratory infections. Respiratory disease

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affects 700,000 Kiwis, is responsible for almost 80,000 hospital admissions, onethird of which are children, and costs New Zealand $6billion a year, according to the Asthma Foundation.

HomeFit has been developed over the last 18 months, in consultation with a wide range of housing and health experts and is supported by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), ANZ, Bayleys, Bunnings Warehouse, Contact, Mitre 10, Pink Batts, Plumbing World, and Rinnai.

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www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 15

News

New programme to boost mid-rise timber construction A new programme launched late last year aims to boost mid-rise building construction using New Zealand engineered and panelised framing timber, and deliver a range of regional, social, environmental and other benefits.

Steve Penno, Director Investment Programmes at MPI, says benefits from the Mid-rise Wood Construction PGP programme will be felt beyond the co-investors.

“Engineered timber provides the opportunity for New Zealand to add significant value to New Zealand grown timber,” he says. “It’s also a natural and sustainable resource."

Red Stag Investments Ltd, a company with its roots in forestry, wood processing and property development, has partnered with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to deliver Mid-rise Wood Construction, a four-year, $5 reduce cost to help meet New Zealand’s million Primary Growth Partnership (PGP) acute need for more accommodation. programme.

“Globally, there has been rapid growth “Combining Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), in the use of engineered timbers such as glulam and panelised framing timber is a cost- cross laminated timber (CLT) and glulam effective, fast, resilient and sustainable system for construction. However, New Zealand is for mid-rise construction,” Red Stag Group behind other countries such as Australia, chief executive officer Marty Verry says.

Austria, Canada, England and the USA in adopting engineered and panelised timber “Our PGP programme aims to encourage widespread adoption of precision-engineered for construction. timber in mid-rise building construction in “This is due to factors such as limited New Zealand. production capacity and little knowledge of engineered wood use and prefabrication in “Aside from its natural beauty, engineered mid-rise building construction. timber provides a very strong, low carbon and comparably low cost alternative to steel “Through our PGP programme, we want to and concrete. create this wider understanding to double demand for engineered and panelised wood “It’s easier to transport, relatively light products in New Zealand buildings, and and has outstanding earthquake and fire resilience. The use of prefabrication can speed develop domestic manufacturing capacity,” up construction by as much as 30 percent and he says.

The Mid-rise Wood Construction PGP programme was launched in Wellington with the Minister of Agriculture, Hon Damien O’Connor, and Minister of Forestry and Minister for Regional Economic Development, Hon Shane Jones.

The programme will assemble a Collective of Excellence – a pool of New Zealand professionals experienced in mid-rise wood building design and construction – to help share and grow knowledge and expertise within the broader industry.

Red Stag will design and build two mid-rise wooden buildings to showcase engineered timber construction, to act as reference sites and inform case studies. The first will be the Clearwater Quays (quays.co.nz) five level apartment development at Clearwater Resort Christchurch, to be constructed in 2019 (see image).

Construction costs associated with the programme will be covered by Red Stag.

MPI investment provided through the PGP will contribute to other aspects of the programme, such as design, collating and sharing information, and establishing the CoE.

The programme has three interrelated projects: Project 1: Building two mid-rise wooden buildings, paid for by Red Stag, to act as showcases and reference sites and inform case studies.

Project 2: Documenting and collating the designs, details, reports, lessons, costs and feasibility information from the two showcase buildings.

Project 3: Promoting information developed by the programme through electronic media, workshops and site visits to New Zealand architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, constructors, real estate agents, manufacturers, urban councils, developers and investors. Project 3 also includes developing the Collective of Excellence (CoE).

Ground improvement technology Stone column ground improvement is a well proven technique for delivering predictable seismic and static soil performance in difficult soil conditions by the application of densification or composite stiffening.

NZ Ground Improvement Ltd is the only specialist contractor in New Zealand solely dedicated to stone column ground improvement design and build solutions.

Upgrade TC3 Land with NZ Ground Improvement’s Ground Improvement Technology

Our Betterground Vibroflot system has been in use all over the world since its invention by the German Degen family in the mid-1930s.

NZ Ground Improvement is a soil improvement service providing stateof-the-art stone column soil remediation to bring your land to a higher grade, improving building safety and stability.

Our services densify and reinforce your soil, lowering building foundation costs and greatly reducing the risk of future liquefaction on your land.

We have a history of partnering with the client-side team to form strong working relationships based on a collaborative approach to finding pragmatic foundation solutions in challenging conditions.

We deliver design and build solutions through an independent, specialist stone column ground improvement CPEng subcontract designer and we engage independent CPEng subcontract reviewers to ensure nil conflict of interest opportunities in the design process.

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16 | B&C - Issue #115

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How our ground improvement services work NZ Ground Improvement handles the entire ground improvement process for you from start to finish.

Our independent expert designers create a tailored solution for your property, with soil improvement goals and key metrics laid out in detail.

We use dedicated precision rig technology, unmatched by any other company in New Zealand, to inject a unique grade of locallysourced stone which is compacted to form columns, densifying and strengthening the surrounding soil.

The process typically takes between three days and several weeks depending on the size of the site and initial condition of the soil.

We track progress via our sophisticated GPS technology and test rigorously to ensure the work matches specifications down to the millimeter.

The end result is we're providing land performance alterations to predictable levels of earthquake resilience.

More effective than other ground improvement alternatives, stone piling provides superior protection against the risks of future earthquake-induced liquefaction.

Feel free to get in contact for a no cost review of your project.

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Accurate Cutting

Accurate Cutting Accurate Cutting is a local Dunedin owned and operated company with more than 25 years in the business.

Our professional team are highly experienced in concrete cutting/sawing, core drilling and demolition using the most advanced, high-end technology and equipment that is currently available within the South Island.

We aim to exceed expectations of our workmanship and deliver a professional and friendly service that will ensure we build open, mutually respectful relationships with all our clients and as such, set meeting clients’ needs as our main focus.

One of the ways we achieve this is by providing expert advice and support for each and every client, delivering and completing accurate and professional jobs, done right the first time.

Our professionalism and experience means we can provide expert advice on any project, at any stage of the project. And because of this, Accurate Cutting quotes are based on information the client provides, combined with our extensive experience and commitment to quality, accuracy and especially safety under the new HSWA Regulations.

Floor grinding / polishing Floor polishing/grinding and decorative work is one of our specialties.

We are the only Otago based company that provide the Artizan Polishshield (TM) concrete floor system.

We have been proud to work on some amazing award winning projects including the Inspired Pantry/Precinct Food, Cadbury’s Café, Lew Walker Ltd‘s winning 2015 House of the Year, and several floors within the ASB House Building along with a number of private homes and commercial premises.

The Polishshield (TM) system, developed in New Zealand, combines the latest New Zealand diamond tool technology with advanced lithium based chemicals to produce a high quality, durable and cost effective flooring solution. This system can be used for both indoor and outdoor areas.

Polishshield (TM) offers a choice of three finishes; Natural, Speckle and Exposed.

Along with a dust shield system. Finish selection is dependent upon the condition of the floor to be polished, installation and the desired finish.

All chemicals used to produce a Polishshield (TM) floor comply with Green Leaf/LEED qualifying environmental standards.

A wide range of services

Health and safety

Accurate Cutting are highly experienced in all aspects of commercial, industrial and residential work. We specialise in: • Commercial and residential drilling, sawing and cutting • Demolition and removal work - using the latest technology (including Brokk robotic demolition) • Fit out and alterations • Wire/wall/hand sawing • Slurry decanting • Safety grooving • Soff cutting of new slabs (same day) • Concrete X-raying • Project management • Road/asphalt sawing • Floor polishing and grinding • Expansion cuts for driveways/slabs • Door/window openings • Driveway decorative cutting and tile effect work • Indoor fittings/plumbing and electrical service adjustments.

Accurate Cutting operates to the highest health and safety policies under the latest HSWA Legislation with trained staff making the right decision at the right time.

We are also extremely proud to hold Secondary ACC WSMP and we also hold a green rating for our health and safety systems through the SiteWise online contractor management system. This has been set up by SiteSafe NZ Inc. where we are also listed as preferred Contractors for a number of Dunedin firms.

Feel free to contact us for advice or a quote.

We are more than happy to assist.

Accurate Cutting Ltd PO Box 8074 Dunedin 9041 0800 CUT IT 4 U (0800 288 4848) 027 497 7073 office@accuratecutting.co.nz www.accuratecuttingltd.com

0800 CUT IT 4 U (0800 288 4848)

We provide high end Residential and Commercial services We are the experts in concrete cutting, drilling, sawing, grinding, polishing, decorative cutting, xraying and demolition work.

P O Box 8074, Dunedin 9041 F: 03 454 6393 E: office@accuratecutting.co.nz www.accuratecuttingltd.com www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 17

News

Why a sustainable approach to building maintenance is good for business

By Daniel Nixon, managing director for Foundation One

Building owners interested in increasing long term returns could do worse than take a sustainable approach to building management.

Ten years of research have proven that far from costing money, thinking like a greenie is smart business.

The principle is easy to grasp: Just as a well-tuned car burns less fuel and oil, a well-maintained building uses less energy.

It’s also more appealing to tenants and is likely to attract a better price when sold.

But the burning question for many owners has been whether the numbers stack up.

Are the costs outweighed by the savings and returns?

The jury’s in, and the answer is a resounding “yes”.

A 2009 study of 643 buildings in the United States, for instance, found that while average commissioning costs amounted to less than 0.5 percent of the overall construction cost, good commissioning practices delivered a 16 percent energy saving for existing buildings and a 13 percent saving for new ones.

So why doesn’t every building owner insist on the highest standards of building maintenance? Because doing so has been a lot harder than it looks.

Building a sustainable building is one thing. Keeping it operating sustainably is a whole other matter, and one that demands massive attention to detail. The fact is, few owners have the means of acquiring the detailed information needed, or of managing it over time.

The typical approach in New Zealand is walk-throughs and audits by an experienced builder, usually with a clipboard or Excel spreadsheet at hand. But that’s simply not enough.

International best practice demands sophisticated software that doesn’t rely on the quality of the inspector (which varies

"

Building a sustainable building is one thing. Keeping it operating sustainably is a whole other matter, and one that demands massive attention to detail.

subjectivity and ensures every aspect of a building’s condition is accounted for.

"

greatly in New Zealand), but instead provides systematic questionnaires, coupled with drop down menus that drill into the detail of every aspect of a building.

up to huge value; to tons of waste saved and cost taken out,” says Electronic Systems sustainability manager, BAE System Sean Delehanty

The result is a standardised, rigorous, highly detailed view of the building that’s independent of the subjective views of the person conducting the audit.

A case in point: When one BAE Systems’ facility, which already was Energy Star certified, increased the amount of material recycled by seven percent, it reduced its solid waste disposal by 10 percent, saving $10,000 annually.

A software-driven approach also ensures nothing gets missed, and consistency of audits over time that allows for long-term maintenance planning.

Often that means paying attention to operational details. “A lot of little things add

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Problem sorted.

OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE INDUSTRY 18 | B&C - Issue #115

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Alongside that, we are creating a service to support clients in analysing the detailed reports that this new approach will generate, and creating long term maintenance plans that will reduce costs and increase returns over time.

Other countries have recognised the value of this approach. In the US, banks will often demand software-based assessments before lending on commercial buildings. Similarly, company boards expect to see sustainable maintenance plans based on solid data.

A PWC survey of a thousand CEOs from 43 countries revealed that 79 percent believe sustainability is vital to profitability.

Sustainable practices reduce risk, increase efficiency, and reduce environmental and social concerns.

They also drive margins upwards. In sophisticated markets, commercial buildings are treated less like cost centres – where maintenance spend is a grudge purchase – and more like the business investments they really are. The question is not “how do we minimise maintenance costs?” but “how do we maximise the long term sustainability and returns from this asset?”

The time has come to address the long term equation: Assessment and planning.

As visibility of building performance improves in New Zealand, demand for higher quality maintenance services will follow. The days of ad hoc maintenance, delivered by tradespeople of varying skills, are numbered.

New Zealand commercial property owners can look forward to professional service levels from maintenance companies as the norm, not the exception.

In 2019, we are launching a new service that will lead the market in building assessment.

As discussed above, it will be driven by sophisticated software that eliminates

This is good for property owners, managers and tenants. It’s good for business. And we look forward to sharing more about how it will be possible over the next few months.

Good practice

Leaky building hallmarks The haphazard approach to building and design, combined with a less than adequate consent and sign-off process, lead to the leaky building epidemic which has caused many homeowners heart break and financial collapse.

A leaky building is where the cladding system has failed due to poor design and inadequate construction, allowing the building to “leak”, causing extensive damage to the structure of the house.

The use of untreated kiln-dried timber during construction has only added to the problem as it provides no defence to moisture and simply rots when wet.

Unfortunately building regulations and requirements and administration of the New Zealand Building Code by councils and building certifiers at the time, failed to pick up on buildings’ shortcomings.

The easing of building controls in 1998, that allowed the use of untreated timber, simply made the matter worse resulting in even quicker deterioration.

Features of a leaky building

Tell-tale signs of a leaky building Exterior • Cracks in plaster • Blistering or flaking paint work • Stains on cladding • Faulty or leaking windows and doors • Inadequate ground clearances • Faulty decks and/or roof.

Interior • Skirting and architraves swelling and cracking • Leaking windows and doors • Mould build up on the window liners • Mould on the inside of drapes • Carpet and floor coverings showing signs of water damage • Flooring that has swelled • Pull up the carpet near the joinery and look for rust marks on the carpet fixings • Swelling, cracking and popping of wall linings.

Adhesion Sealing Adhesion Sealing is a leading South Island based subcontracting company specialising in waterproofing, sealants, membrane roofing, concrete repair, crack injection, resin floor coatings and toppings, and FRP seismic strengthening.

With branches in Christchurch and Dunedin, we are well placed to cover all types of commercial and residential work in the lower South Island.

Adhesion Sealing has a comprehensive health & safety system in place and the addition of robust QA systems and supplier backing means that the client can rest assured that their work will be completed to a high quality finish in a safe manner.

Our NZ based suppliers have products to suit a range of situations and provide technical back-up to our experienced team of applicators.

Our teams of local applicators have completed many large and small projects over the 30 years we have been in business, and as a result have built a huge amount of experience.

We are happy to share this experience with our clients to ensure that they get the quality job that they require.

1. Ground clearance: Inadequate cladding clearance to ground, paving or decks or insufficient fall away from building perimeter. Clearance to solid ground (concrete, asphalt, paving, decking timber) should be 150mm; clearance to soil 225mm.

2. Cracking: Look for hairline cracks in the cladding, typically found close to windows and doors or discolouration of cladding around these areas.

3. Joinery: Check for cracks along the joinery seals which can allow water ingress.

4. Penetrations: Check all penetrations in the cladding, for example around pipes, vents and meter boxes, for gaps and lack of sealant. Also check to ensure meter boxes are flashed correctly - the lack of flashing or reliance on sealant may allow water to penetrate.

5. Pergolas: Pergola frame penetrating the cladding or direct fixed through the cladding may result in water ingress.

6. Windows: Check window flashings to ensure they are correctly installed. Round, shaped or corner windows are difficult to flash, increasing the risk of water ingress.

Check for staining below the window.

7. Enclosed Balcony / Cantilever Deck: Enclosed balconies and cantilever decks can result in a multitude of risks. (a) A lack of fall on the balustrade, (b) Handrailings attached through the plaster cladding, (c) Poorly applied waterproof membrane, (d) Insufficient drainage holes allowing water to pool after rain, (e) Lack of clearance between the cladding and the balcony floor - all are signs that water may be penetrating the building’s exterior.

8. Interior Signs: These can include swollen or cracked skirting boards or architraves; mould on the inside of curtains and window liners; floor coverings showing signs of water damage; and swelling, cracking and popping of wall liners.

Roof and deck membranes Waterproofing and tanking Concrete protection and repairs Floor leveling, toppings and coatings Grouting and sealants Flooring screeds - epoxy and polyester HP injection epoxy and polyurethane Swimming pool sealing and coating

If you have a job that involves waterproofing, sealants, membrane roofing, concrete repair, crack injection, resin floor coatings and toppings or FRP seismic strengthening give us a call or email us on: Dunedin: Phone (03) 453-0791, email dn@adhesionsealing.co.nz.

Christchurch: Phone (03) 365-0914, email ch@adhesionsealing.co.nz.

DUNEDIN (03) 453 0791 dn@adhesionsealing.co.nz CHRISTCHURCH (03) 365 0914 ch@adhesionsealing.co.nz

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Issue #115 - B&C | 19

News

Accessibility and how to avoid the pitfalls

By Colleen Jones

Have you ever experienced project delays and costs from having to re-work accessibility features in a building that does not conform to the building code?

If so, you’ll know that depending on how far into a job you are when any oversight is discovered, it can be costly and time consuming for all concerned and particularly frustrating for you.

Knowing how to reduce or eliminate this risk to your construction projects can make a significant different to your bottom line.

Where do accessibility requirements apply?

Access and facilities in buildings for those with disabilities – commonly referred to as accessibility - is a New Zealand Building Act

2004 requirement which applies to most non-residential buildings.

The responsibility vs the problem Because the responsibility of ensuring that accessibility requirements are met on a building project falls to the design team, council building consent officers and building inspectors, it’s understandable that you might think there’s no need to be concerned about this.

However, having an understanding of even the minimum accessibility requirements will alert you to potential problems and offer solutions.

As an example, let’s say you are working on a building that includes an accessible toilet. In this instance the room does not have a shower, so needs to be of a size at least 1600 x 1900mm to meet code requirements. It just so happens that is what is dimensioned on the construction drawings. So far, so good.

But the pitfall is that architects typically note the dimensions on a plan to the framing, not to the inside face of the linings. The gib and tile wall linings specified in the design documentation will reduce the room size to less than what is necessary in building code acceptable solutions, which ultimately means that if you build the room to the project specifications, it’s going to be too small.

Of course, the design team intends for construction documentation to be accurate and compliant with all code requirements, but through tight deadlines and design changes, things can get missed.

With the array of mandatory accessibility features and requirements needed in a building, plus the numerous standards and building code clauses containing the necessary information, it is not uncommon for people to inadvertently overlook something.

When someone else’s mistake becomes your problem As building professionals, we are gradually becoming more aware of the importance of accessibility in the built environment.

However, until it becomes more common, errors can slip through the design and consent processes only to be picked up at the building inspection stage of a project.

And you know what? When something is only identified after construction has started, it now involves you.

And even when someone else is paying you to make any necessary onsite changes, it still costs you time and money, and potentially has a knock on effect in terms of the timing of your next job.

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News

You may already build them into your projects, but if not, mitigating the risk of these expenses with tools such as contract provisions is one way of reducing the impact of a problem that stems from no fault of your own. Or alternatively, getting up to speed with accessibility requirements yourself can help you to avoid the issue altogether.

Avoiding the pitfalls

Access Routes New Zealand Building Code Clause D1 Safety From Falling New Zealand Building Code Clause F4 Signs New Zealand Building Code Clause F8 Personal Hygiene New Zealand Building Code Clause G1.

The old adage measure twice, cut once rings true here. Rather than having to manage the effects of an accessibility error on your project, it’s a much better idea to prevent it from happening in the first place.

You can find these free on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Enterprise website:

Checking the drawings and written specification against the acceptable accessibility solutions before you start is a good way to make sure what you will be building will be compliant.

www.building.govt.nz/building-codecompliance/g-services-and-facilities/ g3-food-preparation-and-prevention-ofcontamination/public-accommodationaccess/access-standard-nzs-41212001/.

Knowing where to find detailed information about accessibility prior to breaking ground is an obvious place to start, although it can be complicated initially to get your head around as there are so many requirements, and the information is scattered in several different places.

And of course, if it’s more convenient, investing in an accessibility review or external expertise before a project starts could pay off with saving you time and money down the road.

Helpful resources The resources listed below cover the majority of accessibility information that you will probably need and are a great starting point.

The most commonly needed accessibility requirements found in various New Zealand Standards and Building Code Clauses are: Design for Access and Mobility – buildings and associated facilities New Zealand Standard NZS4121:2001

www.building.govt.nz /building-code-compliance

Whether you choose to engage a specialist or you own in-house expertise, with an ever increasing attention on accessibility in buildings, it makes sense to plan ahead.

Prevention really is the most cost effective solution, so be sure to double check before your project gets underway to avoid the pitfalls.

By Colleen Jones, Universal Design consultant, www.jonesconsultancy.co.nz

Policy Design

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Issue #115 - B&C | 21

News

Skills shortages hurting employers Difficulties in finding staff with suitable skill levels are reaching critical levels for the majority of employers, who identify skills shortages as the major issue facing their businesses, according to the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) 2018 Employers Survey.

In the current, incredibly tight labour market, 79 percent of employers say it’s “difficult” or “very difficult” to find skilled staff. This is an increase on 72 percent in the previous two years.

The EMA’s CEO Kim Campbell says, “Finding new staff is proving to be the biggest handbrake on employers’ ability to increase productivity.”

The skills mostly lacking are technicians (for 32 percent of employers), professionals (for 28 percent) and machinery operators (for 20 percent).

“Increasingly employers are looking to the immigration market, technology, or taking on relatively unskilled staff to train them up,” Kim says.

Seeking skilled migrants from offshore has become a solution for more employers this year with 33 percent looking to solve their problem through immigration compared to 23 percent a year ago.

and up-skill them to meet their needs. In addition, 44 percent will re-train existing staff on the job, and 38 percent prefer to employ people with required experience, although this latter figure has dropped by 12 percent on a year ago.

Recognising the ongoing need for employers to train their staff, the EMA offers more than 100 different training topics, delivered as seminars, conferences and courses up to Diploma level, and provided onsite at EMA or at employers’ own premises, or online.

The Survey also showed that the majority of employers (70 percent) are finding it “difficult” or “very difficult” to recruit for any position let alone skilled roles. This is an increase of nine percent compared with the same time a year ago.

Employers are also addressing their skill needs in other ways.

Kim says, “New labour laws are also causing concerns about taking on new staff, especially the proposed dropping of the 90-day trial for businesses with more than 20 staff. Retaining the 90-day trial for all sized businesses was number one on the employers’ wish-list.”

The majority of employers (55 percent) prefer to employ people with basic skills

Overall, reduced business confidence levels reflect other confidence surveys. In the

2018 Employers Survey conducted online in November, 14 percent of respondents expect business conditions to improve in the next year, a decrease of 10 percent on a year ago. Now 39 percent expect conditions to worsen (compared to 28 percent a year ago).

But 47 percent expect conditions to remain relatively steady in the year ahead, on a par with a year ago.

The full survey findings include comments from employers and cover the following topics: • Business outlook • Demand for skills • Impacts of technology on the workforce • Productivity • Ageing workforce • Employing youth • Immigration • Workplace literacy and numeracy

• Employment policies • Flexibility in the workplace • Collective employment agreements • Payroll audits • Minimum Wage • Involvement with WorkSafe New Zealand • The biggest issue facing employers • Employment change wish-list.

The 2018 Survey respondents (206) were mostly owner-operators with fewer than 50 staff, and were located in the EMA’s membership region from Taupo northwards.

The main employment sector contributing to the survey was Manufacturing (28 percent), followed by Wholesale Trade (eight percent), Construction (seven percent), then Retail Trade, Professional, Scientific and Technical Services and Health Care (each at six percent).

You can find the full findings of the 2018 Employers Survey at: ema.co.nz.

Property development specialists Graham Harris is a privately owned roading and civil construction company based in New Plymouth.

The business began in 1972 and we’re proud to still be serving our local community 47 years on.

We have a highly skilled team experienced in civil construction and project management. This allows us to offer a wide variety of services to our clients.

We specialise in subdivisions, demolition, earthworks, site works, concrete works and drainage, but are also more than happy to price any job specific commercial or residential development.

We are fully equipped to carry out all property development work, including concrete and rural vehicle crossings, which we are New Plymouth District Council approved for, and decorative concrete finishes for new homes or driveways.

Offering such a vast number of services means we cater for a variety of clients.

We supply services to local home and land owners, commercial clients as well as local authorities such as councils and the energy sectors.

Whatever your commercial, residential or round the house needs are, we’ll come take a look and give you a free quote to help get your project underway.

Just give us a call on (06) 758 1931 or email your project details to office@grahamharris.co.nz.

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News

NZIOB to host inaugural BIMinNZ Conference in Wellington Registration has now opened for New Zealand’s first BIMinNZ Conference being held in Wellington on Wednesday, 8 May 2019.

NZIOB chief executive Malcolm Fleming says, “This one-day conference on Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an industry partnership run by the NZIOB on behalf of the BIM Acceleration Committee (BAC).

“BAC was an entity created as an output of the government sponsored Building and Construction Productivity Partnership, which viewed BIM as a leading tool to enhance productivity levels in the sector.

“The purpose of the May 2019 BIMinNZ conference is to showcase the productivity potential of BIM, along with its potential as an innovation enabler,” Malcolm says.

“The conference, which follows the successful BIM 101 seminar series that the NZIOB ran in 2016, is a collaboration between the BAC, the Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ) and the New Zealand Institute of Building (NZIOB).

So, BIMinNZ is a construction technology forum envisaged and developed by industry for industry.”

Two US-based keynote speakers have already been confirmed for BIMinNZ: Dave Rendall, the author of The Freak Factor, and Brendan Dillon, BIM Manager at Denver International Airport.

David Rendall has spoken to audiences on every inhabited continent. His clients include the US Air Force, Australian Government, and Fortune 50 companies such as Microsoft, AT&T, United Health Group, Fannie Mae, and State Farm.

Prior to becoming a speaker, he was a leadership professor, stand-up comedian, and non-profit executive. Between presentations, David competes in ultramarathons and Ironman triathlons.

He has a Doctor of Management degree in organisational leadership, as well as a graduate degree in psychology, and is the author of four books: The Four Factors of Effective Leadership, The Freak Factor, The Freak Factor for Kids, and Pink Goldfish.

Brendan Dillon manages the Digital Facilities & Infrastructure Programme for Denver

"

The purpose of the May 2019 BIMinNZ conference is to showcase the productivity potential of BIM, along with its potential as an innovation enabler.

NZIOB chief executive Malcolm Fleming

"

International Airport (DEN). DEN is the sixth busiest airport in the United States and has developed a comprehensive BIM and Asset Management plan unsurpassed by any airport in the country.

international examples of where BIM sits within the project environment. Our aim is for delegates to engage with both the content and their fellow attendees; for them to be inspired, leaving the forum to play a role in transforming our industry.”

Several leading New Zealand and Australians speakers have also been confirmed to speak to the conference’s session topics: Setting Client Requirements, Design, Construction, Specialist Trades, and Asset and Facilities Management.

Malcolm Fleming says, “The NZIOB would like to acknowledge the funding support of the Building Research Levy, in allowing BIMinNZ to be realised. The prospect of an industry curated showcase of BIM that has received government backing, has captured the imagination of the New Zealand BIM community, with 150+ registering their interest since a recent announcement of the event by the NZIOB.”

BIMinNZ Conference Chair, Dennis Burns says “The BIMinNZ Conference will provide relevant and inspiring local and

Further information on BIMinNZ is available at www.biminnz.co.nz/biminnzconference and www/nziob.org.nz/events-2/events/.

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Issue #115 - B&C | 23

Tradies' toys

Holden Colorado Z71 Xtreme

Holden’s dream ute just became a reality. Enter the Colorado Z71 Xtreme – Holden Colorado’s newest edition, based on the celebrated Colorado Xtreme concept vehicle, first unveiled at the Bangkok International Motor Show in 2016.

The Z71 Xtreme’s tough exterior is loaded with accessories and matched by its off-road capability, ready to take on any terrain or driving conditions.

To help tackle all types of activity, the Z71 Xtreme, based on the top of the range Colorado Z71, adds a best-in-class winch system equipped with a heavy-duty bash plate, as well as 10,000 lb load capacity and a 30m synthetic line.

Colorado Z71 Xtreme’s high visibility LED light bar, combined with a winch bar,

upgraded front suspension, all terrain tyres and vehicle recovery kit, add to its go anywhere capability, day or night.

Holden’s tough, limited-edition ute also boasts a long list of concept vehicle inspired genuine accessories.

“The Colorado Xtreme was a concept car that resonated with our customers, and to not only put it into production, but elevate it, is very exciting,” says Holden’s product marketing manager, Andre Scott.

AG CONTRACTORS FOR OVER 30 YEARS IN THE BOP 24 | B&C - Issue #115

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“As a base vehicle, Colorado Z71 is already very capable, so we’ve expanded our Genuine Accessories range for additional off-road capability. Cue the Holden Winch system, the Xtreme’s hero accessory, which is a game-changer.”

Equipped with a big 2.8 litre Duramax Turbo Diesel engine, 500Nm of torque and a 3.5 tonne towing capacity, the Colorado Z71 Xtreme boasts the same impressive credentials of the Colorado Z71, with a newlook tough exterior and upgraded off road capability to match.

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News

NZIQS and AIQS announce BIM Best Practice guidelines New Zealand’s construction industry is at a crossroads, and now more than ever industry professionals’ responsibility to collaborate will ensure greater strides in the future.

To do this, the New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NZIQS) is calling for industry to adopt Building Information Modelling (BIM), an industry tool not only underpinned by technology, but the collaboration of people.

BIM facilitates greater workplace understanding between engineers, building owners, architects, quantity surveyors and contractors in a virtual environment, to enable different sharing of information across these disciplines.

It supports more effective management of a construction project, from initial design to construction, operations and finally, decommissioning.

To ensure BIM is used effectively and appropriately, the NZIQS BIM committee, in conjunction with the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) BIM committee, have put together a BIM Best Practice Guideline document.

“The Best Practice Guideline aims to promote BIM to quantity surveyors of all levels and capabilities in Australia and New Zealand, as well as supporting and enhancing

the value of quantity surveyors in the property and construction industry,” says Chair of the NZIQS BIM Committee, Keeley Pomeroy.

The guidelines highlight key knowledge areas relating to BIM, including information on what quantity surveyors need to know about BIM, what to expect in a BIM project, and timeline of a quantity surveyor’s role in the BIM Execution Plan, among others.

According to Keeley, as digital construction technology develops, it will become inevitable for all industry professionals, from engineers to architects, to adopt BIM. The Guidelines cater to all levels of experience, from people in education, right through to experienced practitioners.

“In essence, the new generation of construction workers want to break away from tradition, and start working collaboratively.

“BIM is a good way to start, and we encourage all professions of the industry to jump on board.”

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Issue #115 - B&C | 25

News

Diversity the key to construction success Women make up just 2.6 percent of workers ‘on the tools’ in New Zealand’s construction sector and the Building Construction Industry Training Organisation says correcting this imbalance is vital to addressing ongoing skills shortages.

Employment forecasts for the construction sector, which BCITO covers, suggest there will be more than 80,000 new and replacement jobs openings in the next five years. Traditional workforce pools are not meeting industry demands for skilled workers and record low birth-rates in 2003 is making competition for school leavers particularly fierce.

“The sector is crying out for skilled workers and boosting gender diversity is vital.

Currently, less than five percent of BCITO employers take on women apprentices.

"We need more employers to broaden their scope and wake up to the benefits of a more diverse workforce,” says BCITO CEO, Warwick Quinn.

“We also need more women to consider a career in the trades. We are concerned that not enough schools are encouraging young women to get involved. Although 96 percent of our women apprentices have strong job satisfaction, nearly three-quarters of them never had the chance to participate in construction-related courses while at school,” Warwick says.

To help address this gender imbalance BCITO has released a short documentary which explores and challenges stereotypes.

The “My Boss Legend” documentary reveals what it’s really like for employers, women apprentices, and those who have supported their decision to enter this maledominated industry. The campaign aims to encourage more employers to open the door to hiring women on their teams.

family, respect, equal opportunities and providing a positive and engaging learning environment. Stephen and his wife Judy Brown took part in the documentary.

the values of equality and whanau. He is simply interested in employing the person best suited for the job. Half of his staff are women.

“I think you’ve always got to look at your company and employ the best person for the job at the time,” Judy Brown says.

MB Brown Builders in Wairarapa employs Paris Ternent-James, 22, as a carpentry apprentice. Owner Stephen Brown runs his business by the core values of

Great Lakes Aluminium in Taupo employs apprentice Tamara Tuhiwai, who began her trade career in her early 40s. Her boss, Bronek Szpetnar, runs his business on

“Tamara’s happy, you know she’s loving what she’s doing. She goes to work extra early, so she can open up and get everything prepped for the day, and she gets it done,” says Tamara’s husband William Rhind, who also took part in the documentary."

BCITO’s 12,000th apprentice paints a bright future The number of Kiwis engaging in building and construction apprenticeships is at record highs, as the industry’s demand for skilled workers continues to surge.

The Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) now has 12,000 apprentices actively training at the same time. This is its highest number ever, but it still needs more.

“12,000 apprentices in training is a record number for BCITO. But it isn’t nearly enough.

We need many more people to enter the industry and start formal training now if we are to have a hope of reaching targets which will make a small dent in the sector’s skills shortages,” BCITO CEO Warwick Quinn says.

“Our apprentices are setting themselves up for a prosperous and rewarding future and 26 | B&C - Issue #115

it’s never been a better time to enter the industry and trade up.

“Employment forecasts for the construction sector which BCITO covers suggest there will be 37,100 new and 44,500 replacement job openings in the next five years,” Warwick says.

In addition, the recently released National Construction Pipeline Report predicts building and construction activity to remain at its current elevated levels until the end of 2020, with sustained growth expected from 2021 to over $41 billion in 2023.

Warwick says the construction sector must diversify and attract more women, Maori, Pasifica and Asian workers.

“The record low birth rate in 2003 means the number of school leavers today has never been lower and this is adding pressure an already stretched sector. We have a small window of 4-5 years to address some of our concerns before birth rates plummet to record lows. So, if you think we have a skills shortage now, just you wait.”

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

"

BCITO apprenticeships offer wrap around training and support which ensures she is working to industry best practice and her skills are recognised. It also ensures our clients get a quality result.

"

- Profile Property Services owner Paul Eaton

BCITO’s 12,000th apprentice, 21-year-old Cherie Stewart, is painting her way to a brighter future. Employed by Auckland based painting and decorating business Profile Property Services Ltd, Cherie was eligible for the first two years of her Painting & Decorating apprenticeship ‘fees free’.

Her new career not only makes financial sense – it’s also a lot of fun. “We work as a team and have a bit of banter. Plus, I know that I’m embarking on a career which will enable me to earn and learn without racking up a student loan,” Cherie says.

The number of employers who are offering formal training through BCITO has also reached record highs, with 15.3 percent growth in the last two years.

Profile Property Services Ltd owner, Paul Eaton, has taken on four apprentices and encourages others to do the same. He says an apprenticeship was a condition of Cherie’s employment.

“Cherie is really reliable and willing to learn.

She has a lot of potential and we wanted to put her on a path to a successful career with a secure and well-paid future. BCITO apprenticeships offer wrap around training and support which ensures she is working to industry best practice and her skills are recognised. It also ensures our clients get a quality result,” Paul says.

BCITO

All talent is an asset If you’re looking for a straight answer to a serious question that helps the bottom line, such as 'who would you employ?' you’ll get one if you ask Brad Sandri at Ranger Specialist Coatings.

Sometimes what seems doubtful is doable given a shift in perspective.

We asked Brad what he would say to other employers thinking about employing women to work on the tools in the resin industry.

He replied, “Employ the best person for the job. The female team members we have are all very driven, very skilled, heavily involved in what we do, from job planning right through to completion and are very important members of our team.

“I don’t have any reservations. I look at applicants for positions based on their merits and skills, along with their attitude and how I feel they would fit our team dynamic. We have had four female tradies across the age spectrum, all from different backgrounds.

“I have an all-inclusive policy, where everyone is included and treated the same.

I speak briefly one-on-one with the team each week, along with planned meetings and regular reviews, so we keep lines of communication open and if there are any issues we deal with them.

“Laura Steer is our most recent addition to the resin crew.”

When talking about any changes that Brad’s had to put in place he says, “Haven’t had to make any changes at all.

“Laura gets treated the same as everyone else. She does everything that’s expected without issue. She gets going in the morning, gives the older fellas a hurry up if they need it, jumps in with whoever she is working with and away she goes.”

Laura’s a trailblazer, a first, leading the way for other women interested in a career in resin.

She started in decorating and is currently finishing her painting and decorating qualification with plans on achieving resin next – dual trade tickets.

Laura spoke to us about what spurred her interest in Resin. “It was the opportunity to try something new that I hadn’t done before.

I enjoy working across teams, the variety of trades and clients,” she says.

“I enjoy the ability to change the texture of these products depending on what’s required. From high level super smooth gloss surfaces to aggressive non-slip rough surfaces and everything in between,” Laura says.

“The best thing about resin is time constraints and pressure of the process.

Always moving and thinking what’s next, so the team stays on track. The time flies by during the day. I enjoy the satisfaction at the end of these jobs. To look back on what we have done is very cool.

Brad Sandri, Laura Steer and Sako.

“There’s nothing that I can’t do really.

Depending on what resin system we are using and what it’s going onto, I read the information first, then ask questions.

I’ve learnt how to prepare surfaces using diamond head grinders and large sanders.

The right gear is important.

“My girlfriends and family are supportive of my decisions, and this is no different.

"They’re happy for me to be doing something different and celebrate my successes."

When asked what advice she would give to other women looking to get into the trade, Laura says, “If you think it’s what you want to do then go for it. Find the right company and team that fits and if an opportunity gets offered then take it.”

BRONEK SZPETNAR

& TAMARA TUHIWAI RHIND

GREAT LAKE ALUMINIUM

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT PERSON TO BE AN APPRENTICE? FIND OUT NOW AT:

MyBossLegend.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 27

Work safe, work smart

Fatigue and flexible working arrangements in building, construction and other trades Absenteeism in small to medium businesses can have a huge impact on productivity, crew morale and company culture.

I’m sure many business owners are repeatedly frustrated by unplanned interruptions to contract delivery targets and unmet client expectations (excluding external factors). I own a business myself, so am no stranger to poor excuses from employees, last minute panic and the stress of delivering on once easy to meet targets.

There’s no doubt that something has changed in industry in the last decade or so.

Aside from those external factors, my focus is what can be managed and controlled.

Initially, I set out to find out how the introduction of “flexi-time” would impact my own business, if I could recommend to my clients that they use it for attracting and retaining skilled labour, and tackle unplanned absenteeism to better manage project risk.

But the research unearthed some very interesting and candid responses from blokes (I wanted the view of male bluecollar workers who are under-represented in the popular “flexi-time” conferences that are popping up both sides of the Tasman at the moment).

The key talking points are: 1. Working fathers are increasing the time they dedicate to family and meeting with negative or indifferent employer responses.

New Zealand Safety Council board member Karyn Beattie.

That’s pretty significant in a high employment economy, where rising pay expectations are a legitimate employer concern.

2. Many companies dabbling with the concept of “fatigue policy” aren’t applying it or pay lip service to it (deliberately or otherwise).

3. Work types that are impacted by inclement weather often demand employee work time flexibility but do not necessarily respond well to requests from the employee to do likewise.

4. Every single person interviewed responded ‘yes’ to the questions “Would you have more company loyalty if they offered some form of flexible working?” and “Would you be more likely to stay longer than three years with an organisation if they had some form of flexible working arrangements, even if the pay did not change?”

What struck me during the interviews is that there is a genuine opportunity for employers, who may be losing staff and almost completely unaware that fatigue management can be the vehicle by which to manage flexible working arrangements and compliance with regulatory expectations.

We only have to look at how the likes of John Holland are doing in Australia to see how it could be implemented here in New Zealand.

The benefits of offering an application-only flexi-time agreement could assist in sectors where talent is hard to attract and even harder to keep, with skilled working-parents forming the perfect candidates to trial the concept.

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Work safe, work smart

One interviewee told me that shortly after the birth of his daughter, when he returned to work, he had “operated (an excavator) on zero sleep for six days straight because the boss said we needed to complete the job, he laughed when I said that my partner was too tired to lift her out of the cot and feed her”.

An extreme case maybe, but how many fatigued workers are out there operating machines in close proximity to others or working at height? To ignore the issue of fatigue is to fall short of meeting your legislative duty of care.

According to WorkSafe: • 43 percent of workers said they worked when overtired ‘from time to time’ or ‘a lot’ • 24 percent of businesses said their workers worked when overtired ‘from time to time’ or ‘a lot’.

- Health and Safety Attitudes and Behaviours Survey in the New Zealand Workforce 2016.

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015: • Employers must eliminate or minimise risks to health and safety so far as is reasonably practicable.

These risks include: • Workers becoming fatigued from the work they do • Workers coming to work fatigued.

And so to the useful portion of this editorial: 1. How do employers deal with requests for flexi-time from the group of millennial workers now entering parenthood?

(Reference: Part 6AA of the Employment Relations Act 2000) Follow the recommendations on the business NZ website, there is a help document.

2. How can fatigue be measured and managed? (Reference: Health and Safety at Work Act 2015) Put a self-reporting and peer-reporting system in place and use Safety reps to select how best to address each case.

3. Attract and retain skilled workers? Use the potential and option of flexi-time as a key strategy but formalise the terms in writing to ensure abuse can be managed in a fair and swift way.

4. How do we all meet our duty of care whilst making a profit? Think outside the box, talk to the workers and find out what matters to the people the organisation employs. Set up a trial (in writing) and go for it! You may be pleasantly surprised by the outcomes.

About the author Karyn Beattie is a board member of the New Zealand Safety Council, a senior practising safety professional and business owner. She has significant experience in Construction, Manufacturing and Logistics and once worked night-shift (a long time ago!).

Auckland Safety Network AUCKLAND SAFETY NETWORK LTD

In the year ending October 2018, WorkSafe received over 9,000 Notifications of Concern about Unsafe Conditions.

There is clearly room for improvement in New Zealand’s approach to health and safety and a major element in achieving that is an encouraged supply of dependable, compliant health and safety and protective equipment.

Auckland Safety Network (ASN) has built its reputation providing leading height safety equipment – ladders, platforms, anchors and the like.

Now the recent addition of an ecommerce safety shop, which brings leading PPE work wear and safety equipment to the fore, has strengthened its position from a regional to nationwide frontrunner in the domain of health and safety equipment.

Workers from all over New Zealand have access to ASN’s range of high quality, low priced workwear, footwear, safety gear/PPE and fall protection.

Safety Boots • Gumboots • Overalls Harnesses • Hard Hats / Helmets Safety Gear / PPE • Safety Glasses

The only brands you will find on their virtual shelves are ones that exemplify innovative safety solutions, have been tried and tested across a number of applications and are fitting of modern health and safety standards.

These include Bata, Blundstone, Hard Yakka, Honeywell, John Bull, KingGee, Miller (by Honeywell), Safe-T-Tec, Wolverine, and Zero, to name a few.

Encouraging the use of PPE such as pants, suits, hats, boots, gloves, glasses, hi-visibility and fall protection clothing as protocol, is an easy way to safeguard yourself and your employees in working environments where some mandatory safety aspects are lacking.

Eliminate risks and shop online at www.aucklandsafety.net.

EMAIL info@aucklandsafety.net PHONE 0800 123 ASN

www.aucklandsafety.net

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 29

Snorkel

Compact in size, big on features As a leading global manufacturer of aerial work platforms, Snorkel produces one of the largest ranges of simple, reliable and robust machinery. With platform heights ranging from 2m to 40m, Snorkel provides the perfect solution for any application, from interior building maintenance through to the toughest construction job sites.

In 2015, Snorkel officially unveiled its new family of electric scissor lifts which were very well received by rental companies and contractors alike. Snorkel now offers a total of six electric slab scissor lifts in its range – the compact and nimble S3215E and S3219E, the mid-size S3220E and S3226E, and the high capacity S4726E and S4732E. Built to handle the toughest job sites, the compact Snorkel S3219E electric scissor lift provides a maximum working height of up to 7.79m, from a 0.81m wide chassis, and can lift up to 250kg. Designed with a focus on low total ownership costs, this lift can be driven through a standard doorway and can be used outdoors by one person.

Designed with the construction industry in mind, the Snorkel S3219E is packed with innovative features that benefit both the owner and the operator. The new dual shear scissor stack features oversized pins to increase stack rigidity, while the all-steel construction helps extend the working life of the machine.

The 0.72m x 1.62m platform is made from 12-gauge diamond plate, eliminating the need for grip tape. The platform features a 0.91m deck extension with telescopic rails, maximizing the floor space of the platform, whether stowed or extended.

The upper control box is hard-mounted to reduce the risk of theft or damage, and the lower controls are positioned in the rear of the chassis, allowing easy access when machines are parked side-by-side. A control

panel for loading is located on the external toeboard of the machine, enabling the operator to ‘walk’ the machine onto a truck from a safe distance, without needing to be inside the platform.

With a focus on simplicity, the S3219E has a gravity-actuated, over-center active pothole protection system that does not require springs or hydraulics for deployment. The kingpins have been enhanced by a factor of six to eliminate breakage, especially from forklifts when moving the machines.

All new Snorkel electric scissor lifts have a 90° steering design for improved manoeuvrability.

"

All models of the Snorkel electric scissor lift family have become extremely popular with contractors and rental companies alike around the world, and are available in New Zealand from Snorkel New Zealand.

"

Efficient maintenance is an important factor, helping to minimize downtime and maximize revenues. As such, the new Snorkel scissors feature an ‘inside-out’ tray design

which enables all hydraulic and electrical components to rotate outside of the machine chassis for easy access.

With two smaller doors on each side of the lift, instead of the traditional single large door, the operator is able to gain access to the machine components, even when parked close to a wall or obstacle, as only 0.46m clearance is required. The smaller door trays also carry less weight, putting less strain on the door hinges.

The front side trays contain batteries which improve machine balance, while the two rear side trays contain the hydraulics. There is a rear tray containing all electronics including the charger, controller, and contractors.

This tray is housed in heavy-duty ¼ steel that provides additional protection to these sensitive components.

The chassis features a solid plate underneath the undercarriage, and a flat top to ensure that when power-washing, debris does not remain within the machine. Large, easily accessible tie down points and a heavy-duty step ladder are built into the chassis. This enables the use of a chain across the step for tie down during transport.

With 25 percent gradeability and a long duty cycle per charge, the S3219E is designed to deliver a long working life with minimal downtime and low maintenance costs.

A proportional motor and pump rotation conserve battery energy allowing for longer duty cycles as well as charging off the top of the battery, extending the overall life of the battery.

All models of the Snorkel electric scissor lift family have become extremely popular with contractors and rental companies alike

30 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

around the world, and are available in New Zealand from Snorkel New Zealand.

To minimise total ownership costs, all Snorkel lifts are designed to be simple, robust, and reliable. Utilising an all-steel construction, Snorkel lifts can be rebuilt at the end of their initial working life, at the Snorkel rebuild facility in Levin, maximising return on investment from the unit, whether through redeployment or resale.

All Snorkel lifts are available painted in either Snorkel’s famous orange, white and grey livery, or in customer colours, to fit with an existing fleet of equipment.

With over 100 years of collective industry experience, Snorkel New Zealand’s sales and service team is dedicated to supporting the needs of New Zealand EWP users by providing a guaranteed fast and knowledgeable response.

Backed by the Snorkel manufacturing and rebuild facility in Levin on the North Island, Snorkel New Zealand has easy access to a wide range of new lifts, spare parts, and factory-based engineering and technical expertise. The Snorkel facility in Levin is one of six manufacturing facilities that the company operates globally, and predominantly supplies equipment to the New Zealand, Australia, and Asia Pacific region.

Snorkel electric slab scissor lifts are available from Snorkel New Zealand and come with a five-year structural warranty, plus a two-year warranty for parts and labour as standard.

For more information, or to arrange a product demonstration, call (06) 368 9164 or visit www.snorkellifts.com.nz.

Snorkel

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Navigating narrow paths and doorways can present a challenge on the jobsite. Thanks to its compact design, the fits small spaces to get the job done right.

The nimble electric slab scissor lift moves easily from outdoor to indoor on non-marking tyres. Now that’s agility. Add to that a generous platform capacity of 272kg (600lbs) up to a working height of 6.5m (21ft), and you’ve got an all-star performer.

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www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 31

Working at heights

Prevention is better than cure The best method of hazard control is eliminating the potential of a fall Each year hundreds of New Zealand workers are seriously injured due to falls from height at work, some of them fatally.

• Pre-painting fixtures/roofs before installation

As construction work around the country moves ahead, it is crucial we do not lose sight of the importance of keeping our workers safe and healthy – and protect them from the hazards of working at height.

Selecting and operating the right equipment for working at height is an important part of managing a safe worksite.

Falls from height continue to be responsible for an unacceptable number of serious injuries reported to WorkSafe. More than half of these come from falls from less than three metres – most commonly off ladders or from single storey roofs.

The best method of hazard control is eliminating the potential of a fall Consideration of elimination controls should occur early in the project development stage in order to allow necessary design, planning and coordination. Eliminating the potential of a fall can be achieved through: • Safer design • Using alternative construction methods • Using specific tools and equipment.

Safer design Examples of safer design include:

• Installing and maintaining antennae and satellite dishes or air conditioning in areas other than at height.

How to select the right equipment

Start with the most effective control – elimination, and then working through isolation and minimisation.

Considerations when assessing controls Working conditions Slopes, poor ground, obstructions and traffic can determine the choice of work equipment. For example a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) could reach over bad ground or obstructions as long as its stability is not compromised. A MEWP may be preferable to a tower scaffold in such circumstances.

Distance to be negotiated for access and egress

• Have you provided workers with the information they need? (Manufacturer’s instructions, operating manuals, training courses)

Duration and frequency of use

Using alternative construction methods

Long duration, higher frequency work justifies a higher standard of fall protection eg a tower scaffold rather than a ladder.

However, a ladder may be justified for short duration low-risk work.

Examples of alternative construction methods include:

Evacuation and rescue

• Using precast tilt-up concrete construction instead of concrete walls constructed in-situ • Prefabricating structures on the ground or before installation and lifting them into position

32 | B&C - Issue #115

• Have workers been instructed and trained?

Distance and consequences of a fall

• Installing walkways with handrails

• Prefabricating wall frames horizontally before standing them up

Checklist for using working at height equipment

• Do workers have the knowledge they need to use and maintain the e quipment safely?

• Locating air conditioning and similar plant at ground level • Having permanent guardrails or other forms of edge protection, for example parapet walls.

Once you’ve selected the right equipment, it’s critical it is used and maintained properly. Below are two simple checklists for safe use and maintenance of equipment for working at height

Ladders are likely to be less suitable for higher access.

A fall arrest lanyard would be ineffective if the deployment length was greater than the fall height because the user would hit the floor before the system could deploy

• Use of low-maintenance building materials

Using and maintaining the right equipment

If evacuation from a deployed fall arrest system is going to be difficult, choose other work equipment, for example a MEWP.

• Have you ensured workers understand the information provided?

Maintenance checklist • Is equipment maintained in a safe condition?

• Have regular maintenance, preventive checks, and inspections on all fall prevention and height access equipment (including ladders) been carried out?

• Is there a record of inspections?

Additional risk posed by the installation and removal of work equipment

• Have inspections been carried out before the equipment is used for the first time or after any incidents or any major repairs?

AMEWP used by one person may be less risk than two or three people erecting a tower or scaffold for one person to work safely.

• Have you checked the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure maintenance is carried out and is to the correct standard?

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Legal requirements The Health and Safety in Employment Act (HSE Act) 1992, requires that all practicable steps must be taken to prevent a person at work from being harmed. People who have responsibilities under the law include: • Employers, who must ensure a safe working environment and facilities for safety and health; and ensure that any plant used by employees is designed, made, arranged and maintained so that it is safe (HSE Act s.6) • Self-employed people, who must ensure that no action or inaction causes any harm to themselves or any other person (HSE Act s.17) • Principals, who must ‘take all practicable steps’ to ensure that no one is harmed while the work is being done (HSE Act s.18) • Anyone who hires, leases or loans plant or equipment to be used in a workplace must ensure that the plant or equipment is designed, made and maintained so that it is safe for its intended use (HSE Act s.18A).

This means where it is possible for someone to fall from a height while working, all practicable steps must be taken to prevent them from being injured, regardless of whether they are working at height for a short or long time.

Information kindly provided by WorkSafe New Zealand. For further information, visit: worksafe.govt.nz.

Working at heights

Worker injured by falling transmission tower If your workers are operating at height, you must make sure they’re able to work safely according to WorkSafe in the wake of a sentencing decision released by the Hamilton District Court on November 26, 2018.

Electrix Limited was sentenced after a worker harnessed to the top of a 30 metre

temporary transmission tower was injured in August 2016 when it fell to the ground leaving him with multiple injuries.

The temporary tower was installed as part of the development of the Waikato Expressway.

WorkSafe’s investigation found that the tower was not safely secured for the work being undertaken on it. Electrix was found to have failed to develop and implement a safe system of work, failed to ensure the tower was erected in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and failed to ensure the competency of its workers on the towers.

WorkSafe’s head of specialist interventions Simon Humphries said the sentencing should remind those working in the industry to ensure they understand and mitigate the many risks associated with that industry.

“The fact that tower fell in the first place is completely unacceptable. If you are expecting your workers to carry out their duties 30 metres in the air, then as an employer you need to have absolute and failsafe measures in place to keep those workers safe. This worker was lucky to escape this incident with his life but will carry the injuries and trauma sustained in the incident with him for the rest of his life.”

Dangerous scaffolding under the spotlight An Auckland scaffolding company with multiple previous breaches of safety law has been fined $180,000 for further failures to provide its workers with a safe working environment.

Dong Xing Group Ltd was sentenced in the North Shore District Court last October for failing to install a safe scaffold, leaving workers exposed to risks including falls, electric shocks and scaffold collapse.

An Auckland City Council building inspector notified WorkSafe of their concerns after visiting the site and a WorkSafe investigation found that the site lacked adequate systems for ensuring the health and safety of workers using the scaffolding.

This included unmanaged risk of electric shock from a live 230 volt powerline that was at times touching the scaffold, the risk of fall from a height of four metres and the risk of scaffold collapsing as a result of excessive corrosion.

While no one had been injured, the risks posed by the company’s conduct were clear breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and departed from well documented industry standards and guidelines.

Head of WorkSafe’s General Inspectorate Jo Pugh said the company’s disregard for the safety of workers using scaffolding was alarming.

“This was a seriously dodgy set up and it is not the way to do scaffolding. If scaffolding is not maintained and not set up properly, then your workers are walking on a tightrope of risk.”

Dong Xing had previously been issued with one infringement notice, eight prohibition notices, and nine improvement notices for health and safety matters on building sites between December 2011 and 12 August 2016.

“This is a company that had been warned, repeatedly, and continued to flout the law. It is a reminder to everyone providing scaffolding to ensure their systems are up to scratch and their equipment maintained and fit for purpose.”

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Issue #115 - B&C | 33

Working at heights

New businesses deliver efficiencies on site Scaffold and edge protection that is transforming construction productivity A Tauranga-based company is helping people in all regions across New Zealand start up their own residential scaffolding and edge protection installation companies.

INTAKS is a patented, strong, multiconfigurable scaffolding and edge protection system supported by a range of interconnecting components. The system, which is made from durable and light aluminium, offers a variety of combinations to provide solutions for working at height on both residential and commercial sites.

INTAKS general manager, Joel Warren, says while they supply scaffolding and edge protection systems for purchase and rent, their current focus is on mentoring new businesses.

“Most of our customer base has been guys who didn’t own a scaffold company and saw an opportunity in the market. When they first come to see us we discuss what stage they’re at — for example, have they created a business plan? – and we offer them advice on who to see and what we can do to help with that business plan. We also discuss finance

options, and can suggest who they should get in touch with in order to secure finance.”

Scaffolding is a capital-intensive game to get into and Joel says banks typically don’t lend against the gear as security. Loans need to be based on a business model.

“To help with that we have other arrangements to help people increase their plant (scaffolding) without creating a huge capital cost for their business. With more plant, that in turn generates more revenue and their profit margin and return on investment becomes higher.”

Joel says the INTAKS system can be erected and taken down in significantly less time than is required for conventional scaffolding and edge protection.

“Lowering labour costs and transport costs allows our customers to have a better profit margin out of a job, and to complete more jobs with the same number of staff and trucks,” he points out.

According to Joel, the founder of INTAKS, Lew Cleveland developed the system after years of experience taught him there was a need for lighter, user-friendly scaffolding on residential sites.

“There’s been a tremendous amount of thought put into the system beyond just the safety angle.

"

Lowering labour costs and transport costs allows our customers to have a better profit margin out of a job, and to complete more jobs with the same number of staff and trucks.

- INTAKS general manager, Joel Warren

“Lew started with a scaffolding service, using a steel system. While that worked well on some of the jobs, he quickly realised that the gear wasn’t designed for residential, rather it was designed for commercial building use.

“It lent itself to longer runs. The fact it was steel meant it was cheaper to manufacture but because it was heavy the cost of transport and labour was more expensive.”

As far as getting the job done, Lew found that, while he could ask his team to work hard in order to get a job done quickly, the next day they would be sore and tired and not as productive.

Joel says, “With all these things in mind, Lew set about designing the INTAKS system.

"

“All the way through it’s been designed around efficiencies, ease of transportation and keeping a minimal footprint on site, so other trades can easily work around it and improve their efficiency.”

INTAKS takes the long-term view with their customers. “We explain very clearly what it’s like to own a scaffold company, we mention all the pros and cons.

“It’s important for people to get established on the right footing. That way, it’s much more likely that a mutually beneficial relationship will be created. The more they grow, the more we grow.”

If you might be interested in starting an installation business yourself, call Murray Kidd today on 021 368 441 to find out more.

INTAKS scaffolding & edge protection boasts the following benefits: Safe & compliant Innovative design Multiple configurations Incredible flexible & adaptable Low weight Easy install & dismantle Tool-less components Designed, engineered & manufactured in NZ Exceptional labour productivity Excellent return on investment Local INTAKS partnership & support

Safe Modular Efficient

0800 468 257 www.intaks.co.nz

34 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

News

Celebrating health and safety Businesses and individuals leading the way in health and safety have been recognised at the Site Safe Evening of Celebration, held at Alexandra Park in Auckland last November.

Monadelphous Engineering scooped the Vertical Horizonz Safety Innovation Award for large businesses for their innovative pipe compaction frame.

Spiral Drillers Civil was awarded the Hawkins Safety Innovation Award for small to medium organisations for their clever rock core removal tool.

The judges commented “this clever idea both eliminates a significant risk by isolating workers from the activity, and saves time and money”.

The annual event attracted more than 350 guests and announced the winners of the 2018 Site Safe Construction Health and Safety Awards, as well as hosting the Site Safe Certificate in Construction Site Safety graduation.

The frame removes the need for operators to work in the trench, eliminating the risks of engulfment, noise and manual handling. The frame has also significantly improved the rate of compaction, bringing substantial productivity gains.

The judges said it was a compelling, DIY idea: “simple but effective, it reduces injuries, delivers unexpected benefits and has the potential to be used in the wider industry.”

The winners on the night were: Sione Lolohea took out the WorkSafe Safety Contribution Award for leading and inspiring a dramatic culture change at APS Ltd. The judges said it was great to see businesses empowering people like Sione to become leaders and true safety champions. “As a role model for staff, Sione has made an invaluable contribution to health and safety culture at APS.” After an early near miss, Sione has gone on to pave the way for a raft of improvements in the company’s safety culture, bringing a new level of realism and connection to the team’s height training.

Sione has been instrumental in developing new safety products, including design improvements to roof anchors and APS’ PPE safety kits.

Pipeline and Civil were awarded the Teletrac Navman Safety Leadership Award for their leadership-led approach to health and safety culture.

The judges said “the dedicated and hands-on approach to health and safety shown by the management team at this small business is truly impressive. This is one of the strongest applications we’ve ever seen.”

Led by its directors and managers, Pipeline and Civil have made a raft of improvements to their health and safety. Leaders at the business have led by example and demonstrated their care by being on site with workers to review safety processes and procedures.

Designed by the crew on the ground and nicknamed the “shaker”, the device eliminates the need for workers to use heavy-duty hand tools to remove rock cores from drilling barrels, reducing manual handling injuries and exposure to noise.

Total Traffic Management received a Judges’ Special Mention in this category for their illuminated stop/go sign, which has more than doubled the visibility of road workers.

Last year Site Safe had a record of more than 320 graduates, many of whom attended the official graduation ceremony at Alexandra Park.

By participating in a range of Site Safe courses, students earn NZQA credits towards the Certificate in Construction Site Safety qualification, which leads to lifelong learning and the development of leadership skills in health and safety.

• Safety industry pioneer Safety Nets NZ has developed a fall through protection system that has been independently tested and certified by Massey University • There is a “duty to test” placed on all PCBU’s by the HSWA ( 2015) to ensure that the systems that they use are without risk to their workforce.

• By using our system you have the comfort of knowing that you have taken all reasonably practicable steps in regard to this obligation • Our nationwide network of local installers are dedicated to providing exceptional, customer focussed fall arrest solutions

North Island 0800 NETSNZ (638 769) • South Island 0800 NETS4U (638 748) • WWW.SAFETYNETSNZ.CO.NZ

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 35

Accessman

Twenty five years on and still going strong As the iconic Accessman brand enters its 25th year, it’s a time of reflection for the group’s general manager Lena Harrington.

The business has evolved from its humble beginnings, when Director Ross Pickersgill started with one scissor lift, to now boasting well over 1,000 units throughout the group and its franchise system.

In recent years the group has added additional arms to the business incorporating Scaffolding, a Telehandler division, under the name of “Forkworx”, as well as their in-house training academy that delivers the HIANZ Silvercard, along with the renowned international IPAF Operator card.

The IPAF federation, whose members account for 75 percent of the global access fleet, provides an internationally recognised Operator card, with well over 6 million cardholders worldwide.

"

We will continue to stay at the forefront of innovation to ensure we continue to provide the industry with the latest machines and the service that the brand has been built on, transitioning into markets with the experience that has been instrumental in our growth.

"

- Accessman general manager Lena Harrington.

Accessman is no run of the mill hire company and with significant investment in the development of their own software systems, the group has been at the forefront of technology for a number of years.

As with any industry, competition is fierce, and the ability to adapt and meet all facets of the market is a daily requirement.

“Our staff are our business,” Lena says.

“We have a team who have been selected based not necessarily on their experience, but their strength of character, their principles, and their desire to be a part of something special.

“I believe we have the best team in the industry, they are a team of individuals that we like to see progress within the group when the opportunity arises, therefore providing not only a ‘job’, but a future for our staff and their families.

“This is no gift – there is an expectation that they are to be the best in the business, the difference here is that they want to be.”

With the foundation branches plotted throughout the south in Blenheim, Christchurch, Timaru, Dunedin and Cromwell, well entrenched within their local markets, it was a natural progression to move into the North.

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usiness sights, oals.

Accessman

"

I believe we have the best team in the industry, they are a team of individuals that we like to see progress within the group when the opportunity arises, therefore providing not only a ‘job’, but a future for our staff and their families.

"

- Accessman general manager Lena Harrington.

The past 12 months has seen the opening of the West Auckland branch in New Lynn that has experienced significant growth, with a second branch in South Auckland scheduled to open soon.

With success, often comes reward, and this awards the ability to pay it forward by supporting an array of individuals, sports teams, public events such as Coca Cola Xmas in the Park, and schools within the local communities.

Lena says the continual evolvement of the brand, as it has done for the past 25 years, will be the key to the future for the next 25 years, as it is for any successful business.

“We will continue to stay at the forefront of innovation to ensure we continue to provide the industry with the latest machines and the service that the brand has been built on, transitioning into markets with the experience that has been instrumental in our growth.”

What does the future hold for Accessman?

Advances in technology will see the introduction of revolutionary features and devices on machines being utilised within the market in upcoming years, resulting in additional diagnostic reporting, real-time tracking of machine utilisation and lighter weight options in selected models, which are an attractive option on larger scale commercial construction projects.

Accessman T 0800 2GET HIGH (0800 243 844) E training@accessman.co.nz www.accessman.co.nz

For a Complete Hose and Hydraulic Service Hose assemblies • Hydraulics • Pneumatics • Industrial • Marine Agricultural • Material handling • Hose and tube fittings Air-conditioning • Pressure wash • Power steering • Paint spray Oil fittings • Clamps and strapping • Brass and stainless steel

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LET’S GIVE A BIG HAND TO ACCESSMAN Twenty-five successful years in business is an achievement to be applauded. As Accessman’s accountants, we congratulate them on reaching this lofty goal.

T 03 343 0599 Level 2, 329 Durham St North, Christchurch www.staplesrodway.co.nz/christchurch

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 37

Niftylift’s Hybrids available at Accessman

"

Nifty is proud to say that it has been supplying compact low-weight machines to Accessman for a number of years. Dealing first with Ross Pickersgill in the early 2000s, and now dealing with Lena Harrington.

The Hybrid range uses revolutionary technology which enables them to run on Electric-only or on Hybrid Power during operation. With booms stretching from 15 to 28 metres, there is a machine to fit any job — inside and out.

On electric-only power the machine has zero emissions, so works cleanly and quietly — then on Hybrid Power the same machine allows the electric motor to automatically boost the diesel engine when required, for example when climbing a steep slope.

We also provide a comprehensive parts service and prompt technical support throughout New Zealand.

This ingenious technology means a much smaller than usual diesel engine is needed which reduces fuel consumption running costs by up to 50 percent compared to other machines.

At all other times the electric motor channels the excess power from the diesel engine back to the batteries, storing it for when it is most needed.

This efficient Diesel Re-Gen means less battery charging is required. The Diesel ReGen feature can charge the batteries up to 40 percent faster than standard mains power,

meaning less downtime as the machine can fully re-charge itself in just four hours.

This means that a Niftylift Hybrid can potentially work 24 hours a day as it can use the electric motor to work quietly at night and then re-charge during the day-shift while running on diesel.

Hybrids can also work in Low Emission Zones as the Hybrid technology power pack also incorporates an exhaust purification system which greatly reduces carbon monoxide, hydro-carbons, particulates (such as soot), and noise emissions.

REVOLUTION IN HYBRID TECHNOLOGY COMPACT ✔ EFFICIENT ✔ ECONOMICAL ✔ VERSATILE ✔

For more information call us on +61 2 49649765 38 | B&C - Issue #115

"

We use advanced 3D modelling software together with rigorous testing to optimise every aspect of our product design to ensure that every Niftylift work platform delivers outstanding performance without compromising on functionality or reliability.

Accessman has been particularly interested in Niftylift’s new generation of Hybrid machines. These versatile booms are reliable, efficient and economical with an outstanding return on investment due to their versatility and low-weight, compact design.

Niftylift is a leading exponent of green, environmentally-aware manufacturing and has a wide range of EWPs and cherry pickers to fit any job.

Niftylift is a leading exponent of green, environmentally-aware manufacturing and has a wide range of EWPs and cherry pickers to fit any job.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

With 20 years of experience in the market we understand the importance of reliability, ease of operation, minimal maintenance, and excellent after-sales support.

You can be confident that your choice of a Niftylift product is backed up by an awardwinning global company specialising in Hybrid technology.

021 2 4964 9765 jking@niftylift Niftylift.nz

Crane Association

Crane Association soars to new heights There has been noticeable improvement to the standards and practices of the crane operator industry since the establishment of the Crane Association of New Zealand in 1975.

“We use the members as a pool for information to help resolve those problems.”

The Association has been the catalyst for much positive change within the industry and it continues to build momentum in this direction. Now more than ever the future landscape of the crane industry looks to be an exciting one – but it is not without its challenges.

The Association is the national trade organisation for companies that operate or hire cranes (and any ancillary services), and it acts as a conduit for its members, regulators and training providers.

Crane Association New Zealand CEO, Rod Auton, leads the Association’s mission to advocate for the best operational environment for the industry and those involved.

This vision for a safe and sustainable crane industry providing service to the community is realised through the help of its 225 members.

A Code of Ethics endorses the professionalism of members, while a comprehensive website provides 24/7 access to industry-specific information.

Members can find resources including polls and surveys, national construction reports, association business partnerships, safety resources, crane standards, industry news, a member’s directory and a council member’s area.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR A QUOTE

021 941 161 or wayne@murtaghcranehire.co.nz

Furthermore, Rod notes, “Being able to come to someone and say, ‘Hey, look, we’ve got a problem, how do we go about resolving it?’ is of huge advantage to members’ businesses and clients”.

It’s of equal advantage to the Association and industry itself.

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Issue #115 - B&C | 39

Crane Association

Out of the Dark Ages and into the light

With over 50 years of experience, McIntosh Cranes will help you lift and move loads with ease. We offer a large range of cranes, hiabs and transport options to suit any job. With crane capacities of 3 - 350 tonne talk to our team of experts to find out how we can help you.

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At the time the Crane Association was established, analogue practices were the norm. There were no mobile phones, there weren’t even really computers; everyone worked on faxes.

"

“It’s gone from prehistoric, to modern electronic technology, streamlined activity and productivity, improved communication, and it’s also changed in the way we deal with the regulatory agencies,” Rod says.

“Previously we had an adversarial approach to obtaining change within legislation; nowadays it’s more proactive and more of a partnership, we’re working with the agencies to obtain the best outcome.

“Our input provides them with what actually happens on the ground so that they can make the adjustments they need to make,” Rod says.

“It’s a constantly changing environment and there’s always room for improvement.”

The Association understands it needs to be flexible enough to move with the times yet rigid enough that it maintains the standards it’s working hard to achieve.

"

It’s gone from prehistoric, to modern electronic technology, streamlined activity and productivity, improved communication, and it’s also changed in the way we deal with the regulatory agencies.

- Crane Association New Zealand CEO, Rod Auton

“Every time a government changes, the approach to industry changes because their priorities change, and so we have to be flexible enough to move with that.”

It assists in making these transitions in practice as smooth as possible for its members, to result in as little stress, delay and/or disruption as possible to their business and clients.

0800 440 558 | prestonhire.co.nz Auckland

Wellington

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40 | B&C - Issue #115

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Christchurch

Crane Association

Current and future focuses The Association is continually focused on improving the working environment and assisting community and national development.

It is currently working with the regulatory authorities on the following matters: Immigration NZ: to improve the ability of members to acquire overseas workers with valid work visas.

Statistics NZ: to ensure that crane sector data is captured within NZ, and

WorkSafe: regarding the upcoming changes to health and safety legislation.

It is also progressing with industry qualifications, having now lifted its crane operator qualifications from a Level 3 to a Level 4 Unit Standard.

“This means a huge difference in the way crane operators are perceived, going from what is predominantly ‘unskilled labour’ status to ‘skilled labour’ status,” Rod says.

Being able to meet current demand with appropriate solutions and ensure a viable future is an ongoing challenge.

Continued page 46 >

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Formed in 2015 Pinnacle Fire Protection brings a combined 30 years of experience to the rapidly developing fire protection sector.

Priding ourselves on not just isolating a problem, but fixing it from the ground up, Pinnacle Fire ahas expanded during the past

four years to now provide a comprehensive service - from design and installation to service and repair works.

Our talented team consists of trained fire technicians, designers, sprinkler installers and electricians allowing us to provide a complete service that is unmatched in the industry.

We pride ourselves on our relationships and our ability to get the job done. Our bespoke approach helps us tailor the needs of our clients to the most up to date and quality systems available on the market.

Pinnacle Fire will always provide the highest possible protection to all our clients, we go the extra mile every time.

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Issue #115 - B&C | 41

Crane Association

Design Engineering A commitment to professionalism, accuracy and reliability has been a passion for Design Engineering International founder, Dean Van Buuren.

The multi-disciplinary consultancy, headquartered in Timaru, counts milk giant Fonterra, electricity lines maintenance companies Connetics and Netcon, construction industry player Smiths Crane & Construction, and leading steel supplier John Jones Steel among its key largest clients.

Dean started the company in 1991 after a stint in the tertiary sector teaching engineering. At the time he was being asked regularly to assist with large project inspection and welding projects. So, he launched the company and never looked back, starting work on the likes of Westpac Arena in Christchurch and Westpac Trust Stadium in Wellington.

The company now has five branches situated in Timaru, Christchurch, Hamilton, Dunedin and Suva in Fiji.

Dean says the company has undertaken a broad range of projects, from small to large, for numerous companies in New Zealand and overseas, including in Vietnam, Korea, China, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Australia & Nauru.

For example, a large project it has been involved with was the construction of cement

company Holcim’s two new terminals in Timaru and Auckland. But small projects also get the green light, right down to a job like checking the axles of a racing car to ensure they have no cracks.

“Our advantage is having a large team with diverse skills and competencies, enabling the company to provide a wide range of engineering services,” Dean says.

Its engineering staff is multinational with members from Australia, South Africa, England and the Philippines as well as New Zealand.

The company is a market leader offering: • Structural and civil engineering services • Steel detailing and draughting • Calibration, certification/compliance inspection and testing • Welding qualification testing and non destructive testing including video scope inspection

On-site crane inspection in Queenstown

Dean says annual internal and external audits are carried out to ensure the Design Engineering quality management system is maintained and functioning correctly, and all staff remain competent in their duties.

“We pride ourselves on offering professional and courteous services and value our name and reputation as highly competent engineering professionals,” Dean says.

It is a statutory requirement in New Zealand to have pressure equipment, cranes and passenger ropeways inspected annually.

Design Engineering has been doing this statutory inspection work since the government disestablished the marine and industrial division of the Ministry of Transport.

The company has been accredited by IANZ (International Accreditation New Zealand, a Crown Entity) to ISO 17020 as an inspection body.

Its work on compliance and certification takes it into various industries like electricity generation and distribution, ski fields and ports for container crane inspection.

• Mechanical engineering and IANZ accredited Crane Design Verification.

The team of consulting engineers provide structural design and consent process services for industrial, commercial and residential buildings, foundations and retaining walls, EQ seismic assessment and strengthening of existing buildings, construction monitoring, producer statements and peer reviews.

Design Engineering International 4 Elizabeth Place Timaru (03) 688 6713 dean@detim.co.nz www.designengineering.co.nz

Calibration, Certification, Compliance, Consulting & Chartered Engineers Structural & Civil Engineering Welding Inspection & NDT Calibration, Certification Inspection & Testing Mechanical Engineering & Design Verification (Cranes) Christchurch - P. 03 348-6713 Dunedin - P. 03 477-1713 Timaru (Head Office) - P. 03 688-6713 Te Rapa, Hamilton - P. 07 850-1177 Email. admin@detim.co.nz www.designengineering.co.nz 42 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Crane Association

"

It’s a constantly changing environment and there’s always room for improvement.

- Crane Association New Zealand CEO, Rod Auton

"

Lobbying and changes The Crane Association is working on many fronts to improve the working environment for its members and the industry.

However whenever working to change that environment, it takes time to change qualifications, legislation and regulations, and the Association is very much working to the government’s timetable.

The crane qualifications are now formulated to create a pathway into the industry as well as developing continuing professional development for crane operators.

The first of the Level 3 qualifications commenced on the 1st January 2019 with a basic dogman (Unit Standard 30072), Truck Loader Crane (Unit Standard 16617), and Gantry Crane (Unit Standard 3800) qualifications.

The Level 4 New Zealand Certificate of Crane Operations programmes are currently being written, and then the Association will be looking at the Level 5 advanced qualifications which provide a pathway into supervisory and management programmes.

“We currently have a shortage of crane operators because of the thriving construction economy and one of our issues is obtaining quality, competent operators from overseas,” Rod says.

Immigration NZ has just opened a consultation document that should simplify

the process to obtain temporary migrant workers on work visas, and the Association is part of that process.

“Our biggest problem in obtaining workers from overseas for the smaller to medium crane companies is that we are unable to get them onto the Skills Shortage List,” Rod says.

“The reason for that is because Immigration NZ utilises the Australian Bureau of Statistics and Statistics NZ Standard Classification of Occupational Codes (ANZSCO) as the basis for getting occupations onto the Skills Shortage Lists and under that system, crane operators are classified as unskilled workers.”

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Issue #115 - B&C | 43

Crane Association

DEMOLITION & ASBESTOS REMOVAL

By lifting the crane qualifications to Level 4, crane operators would now be classified as a skilled worker, and that should be reflected in the ANZSCO. However, both Statistics NZ and Australia have advised they will not be updating the ANZSCO. “Statistics NZ has realised that ANZSCO is not dynamic enough and tends to favour Australian occupation classifications and are now looking at moving to ARIA, a concept and classification management system.

“The Association has attended a workshop on this with Statistics NZ and will continue to support the change from ANZSCO in the future,” Rod says.

As Worksafe NZ goes through the changes to the regulatory processes after the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, we can expect in the next 12 months changes to the Health and Safety in Employment Regulations 1995, the Pressure Equipment, Cranes and Passenger Ropeways Regulations 1999 (PECPR), and the Approved Code of Practice for Cranes 2009(ACOP).

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CONTACT TIM: 027 528 1011 OFFICE PHONE: 03 389 9650 44 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Worksafe NZ is also looking at licencing the high-risk industries, crane operation being one of them. The licencing may take the form of a Certificate of Competency or an Operators Licence.

“There is a constant battle to ensure best practice is followed in the industry, and operators realise that undertaking best practice will reduce compliance costs and reduce regulatory oversight.

“Legislation and regulation are now being recognised as an impediment due to the time it takes to change or amend it.

"

We currently have a shortage of crane operators because of the thriving construction economy and one of our issues is obtaining quality, competent operators from overseas.

Our biggest problem in obtaining workers from overseas for the smaller to medium crane companies is that we are unable to get them onto the Skills Shortage List.

- Crane Association New Zealand CEO, Rod Auton

"

“The Regulatory Agencies are pushing practical, common-sense applications of Regulations down to Good Practice Guidelines based on industry input and readily changed as the technology and environment changes,” Rod says.

The Crane Association continues to represent its members and the industry at the highest levels, and the members themselves are creating the change and building the crane industry of the future.

Crane Association

Ph 0800 AGTRANS (0800 248 726)

The Association offers four levels of membership: • Full membership: for crane owners exclusively (companies that own and operate cranes).

• Associate membership: extends to all the ancillary services that support the industry.

• Individual membership: for individuals in the crane industry but not actively in business in New Zealand.

Hiab & Transporters Providing a 24-hour, seven-day business, lifting and moving - big, wide, heavy or oversized loads into awkward and hard to reach places.

3 Little Waihi Road, Hawera • info@agtrans.co.nz • www.agtrans.co.nz

• Overseas membership: for individuals or firms in the crane industry but not actively in business in New Zealand.

• To encourage potential members to join, the membership application process has been made simple – a one-page document.

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RML is a New Zealand recognised and registered Training and Assessment Company based in Wellington. Operating since 2002 RML has been working with industry throughout New Zealand to provide flexible training and assessment services to Companies using cranes and lifting equipment. Our knowledge and expertise lays in providing training and assessment services in the safe use of the following: •Wheels, Tracks & Rollers (US 16701, 16702, 16703) • Lifting, placing loads with mobile plant (US 20875) • Stevedoring Operations • Truck Mounted Cranes • Mobile Cranes / Non Slewing Articulated Cranes •Lattice Boom Crawler Cranes / Hydraulic Boom Crawler Cranes • Mini Crawler Cranes • Tower Cranes • Remote Controlled Overhead Cranes / Cab Controlled Overhead Cranes • Slinging and Lifting of Regular Loads / Complex Loads • Elevated Work Platforms • Manual Handling Courses

For more information, Contact Roger Sullivan

Mobile: 021 610 939 | Email: roger@rml.training Proud Member of the Crane Association of New Zealand www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 45

Crane Association

Roberts Engineering & C&R Equipment Roberts Engineering is a one stop shop for almost any imaginable machining needs, specialising in in manufacturing quality, production run quantities of close tolerance precisionmachined components and engineering spare parts.

Through a network of supply partners, Roberts Engineering can also arrange for

processes such as fabrication, assembly and testing to be carried out, meeting its customers’ additional requirements.

At Roberts Engineering our scale and operational structure mean that every employee has a responsibility to ensure customers’ quality requirements are upheld. We work as a team to make sure our customers get a great result.

Customer service is our priority.

We tailor design our services to meet customer requirements and believe in working closely with our clients to achieve optimal results. The nature of our equipment enables us to take a project

from design through to prototype and on to full production.

services such as laser cutting, precision machining, fabrication, and profile cutting.

Roberts Engineering can also cater for small production runs and offers complete machining project solutions and has the facilities to meet any requirements, from the beginning of the design process, through to the prototype stage and then on to full production.

C & R Equipment’s range of quality logging, lifting and commercial fishing equipment and fittings is in use throughout New Zealand and is well known for its reliability and durability.

C & R Equipment C & R Equipment continues its tradition of providing an outstanding range of readymade logging, lifting and commercial fishing equipment and more, while also providing

Roberts Engineering Unit 3D, 200 Maces Road Bromley Christchurch (03) 384 4360

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Unit 3D, 200 Maces Road, Bromley, Christchurch P: 03 384 3154 F: 03 384 4371 E: dirk@crequipment.co.nz www.crequipment.co.nz

IDEAL FOR WORK IN CONFINED AREAS

Hire Frankton’s knuckle boom cranes offer a variety of advantages over a conventional telescopic crane or a mobile construction crane around an inner city or built up area.

Ph: 021 767 719 Email: ross@hirefrankton.co.nz 46 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

www.hirefrankton.co.nz

Crane Association

Financial members of the Crane Association of NZ receive the following benefits: • Up to date information on changes or additions to legislation, regulations and to Approved Codes of Practice • Advocacy on behalf of members and the wider industry • Input into consultation on national, regional and local policy matters

Ashburton Crane Hire Ltd

• Inclusion in the online industry directory • Negotiated member group purchasing • Annual conference • Networking opportunities with industry members

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• An online company profile accessible for updating by the member • Contractor Magazine • Email Digest – the Association online newsletter • Dispatches – the Association hardcopy quarterly newsletter • Advice on crane and business issues • Mediation on behalf of members.

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Issue #115 - B&C | 47

Crane Association

"

Crane-related workplace incidents NZ There is little historic data recorded in New Zealand regarding incidents involving cranes specifically; something the Association has been working hard to improve.

But for the period 2013-2018, cranerelated workplace fatalities accounted for 0.7 percent (2/286) of fatal work-related incidents reported to WorkSafe (these do not include deaths in the maritime or aviation sectors): • Caught between crane boom and truck cab (Auckland 2013).

• Port straddle crane overturned (Auckland 2018).

There is a constant battle to ensure best practice is followed in the industry, and operators realise that undertaking best practice will reduce compliance costs and reduce regulatory oversight.

- Crane Association New Zealand CEO, Rod Auton

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www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

"

Crane Association

"

Being able to come to someone and say, ‘Hey, look, we’ve got a problem, how do we go about resolving it?’ is of huge advantage to members’ business and clients.

It’s of equal advantage to the Association and industry itself.

- Crane Association New Zealand CEO, Rod Auton

"

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Issue #115 - B&C | 49

Agridustrial

Caring for all your automotive and machinery maintenance needs Located in the Kaiwaka Mangawahi area, Agridustrial is a one-stop shop for all automotive and machinery repairs and maintenance needs throughout the Northland area - from Kumea to Whangarei.

Agridustrial is owned by Tina Lusty, who is supported by a specialist team of nine mechanics and a service manager.

“The team have a genuine interest in what they do both in and out of the workshop,” says Tina.

“We like to think of ourselves as a one-stop shop for all mechanical needs, including cars, trucks and tractors.”

Agridustrial has been in the area for nine years, providing a wide range of automotive and sales services to the local community.

Their mobile service vehicles cover from Kumea to Whangarei, and everywhere in between, and when on site services all makes and models of tractors and farm machinery.

Agridustrial repairs and services • Service and repair all of makes and models of cars, trucks and tractors • Warrant of Fitness inspections on cars, trailers, horse floats etc • Certificate of Inspection on trucks and camper vans/motor homes • Sales and service of ride on mowers • Everything automotive, including camblets, brakes, suspension, engine rebuilds, transmission repairs etc • All repairs on trucks • A full range of repairs on tractors from the basic right through to engine, transmission, brakes etc.

Agridustrial is a member of the MTA and all work is undertaken in accordance with the MTA code of ethics and the team is committed to maintaining the exceptional standards and practices required of an approved and trained automotive service centre.

Engineering services

"

• Arc –Gas-Mig-Tig

The team have a genuine interest in what they do both in and out of the workshop. We like to think of ourselves as a one-stop shop for all mechanical needs, including cars, trucks and tractors.

• General engineering

- Agridustrial owner, Tina Lusty,

The team at Agridustrial has extensive experience in welding and engineering and can repair all on and off farm machinery.

Their engineering services include:

"

• Certified welding • Hydraulics – Agridustrial are stockists of an extensive range of hydraulic fittings and can fabricate and repair hose or hydraulic cylinders • Lathe – Argidustrial has a large lathe with DRO that can tackle most jobs • Milling – With a mill and shaper that can machine or cut keyways to the customer’s specifications • Hardfacing – tungsten infusion, metal spray.

ARC and gas • General workshop – hydraulic pressing.

Various presses and pullers allow the team to do some serious work, and drilling, threading, cutting, bending are all well within their capabilities

They are available 24/7 for urgent repairs and breakdowns and prioritise to get clients back working quickly and to ensure minimal downtime for farmers, particularly in busy seasons.

With their fully stocked service vehicles and mobile team they can come to the client for all servicing and repairs.

• Goldoni Tractors • Landini Tractors • Lely Machinery • McCormack Tractors

They stock parts for most makes and models of machinery and equipment, and what they don’t have can often be ordered in and delivered on an overnight courier.

• Mahindra Tractors.

Tractor and farm equipment sales

• WoF repairs

On-farm service

Agridustrial is Northland’s local authorised dealers for a range of high-quality reliable tractors and farm equipment.

The team at Agridustrial are specialists in the servicing and repairs of all vehicles, including tractors, trucks, cars, floats, trailers and all farm machinery and equipment.

Service manager Kevin Platt runs the agricultural department. He is well known in the local area, with extensive local knowledge.

• Good selection of specialist rods.

Kevin also does sales part time, including covering the Branson Tractor lifestyle range and ODE side by sides.

Agridustrial’s services • Automotive WoF checks • CoF checks and repairs • Engineering Services • Batteries • Cambelts • Transmission and suspension systems • Full services • Oil changes • Brakes and ABS braking • Mobile and call out services.

Tina says being a local company, involved in the local community means the team at Agridustrial has extensive local knowledge which allows them to better serve the needs of their customers.

Agridustrial 768 Kaiwaka-Mangawhai Rd RD 5 Wellsford (09) 431 2148 0800 COF WOF (0800 263 963) agridustrial@gmail.com www.agridustrial.co.nz

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Agridustrial

FREE CALL 0800 COF WOF (0800 263 963)

AT AGRIDUSTRIAL WE TAKE CARE OF ALL YOUR CARS, TRUCKS, TRACTORS AND MACHINERY We are a one-stop-shop for all your repair and maintenance needs in Mangawhai, Kaiwaka, Maungaturoto and Kaipara district. We are experts in mechanical servicing and repairs.

AUTOMOTIVE

TRACTORS

TRUCKS

• WOF Automotive

• Sales

• Service & Repairs

• WOF Motorbike

• Service & Repairs

• COF- Certificate

• Service & Repairs

• Mobile & On Farm • Diagnostics

of Fitness • Engineering • Mobile & Call Out

Address: 768 Kaiwaka-Mangawhai Rd RD 5, Wellsford 0975 Email: nathan@agridustrial.co.nz or tina@agridustrial.co.nz Phone: 09 431 2148 Mobile: 021 203 3169

www.agridustrial.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 51

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- 38 Lowe St, Addington, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand - Maungaraki, Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand - Level 12, 23 Customs Street, East Auckland 1010, New Zealand Call 0800 FATWEB, or email enquiries@fatweb.co.nz to book a FREE consultation.

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Issue #115 - B&C | 53

A must-have for all work sites When Horowhenua builder by trade, Allan Spaans, went in search of a good, solid collapsible saw stool, he struggled to find anything that fitted the bill.

The Collapsible Saw Stool is robust, compact, and easy to transport and store.

It is load rated and compliant to Standard AS/NZS 1576.3, having withstood a 1,040kg centre load test.

Utilising his construction background and with some engineering input, he came up with a design that’s been modified over the years into a product with an exemplary track record.

Initially sold in small numbers upon request, every builder in Levin must now have one and with all mobile tradesman able to benefit from the Collapsible Saw Stool, demand has spread like wildfire and they

What began as a resourceful addition to Allan’s building arsenal has become local tradesmen’s greatest must-have on work sites.

are selling as fast as they’re being made – sometimes even faster, through pre-orders.

Allan is involved in the manufacturing process to guarantee the high quality of the design is not undermined by its construction, and to ensure he knows his product inside-out and is best placed to field any questions from customers.

The Collapsible Saw Stool has never experienced product failure – the worst (and only) complaint received being that the rubber feet on an original model had worn out from use, and new tips were promptly provided to the customer.

You can purchase the Collapsible Saw Stool directly through the website www.sawstool. co.nz or by visiting various PlaceMakers and ITM stores in the North Island.

A BUILDERS BEST MATE This is a trade quality saw stool and a builder’s best mate.

This product is compliant and has a load rating certificate.

We also offer a lifetime warranty on all alloy components.

It is very robust and will stand up to the demands of the building industry.

The stool collapses down to a very compact unit, which is very convenient for storage and transportation.

The base and legs made of aluminum so are maintenance free.

The timber top is attached with tek screws and easily replaced as required.

WEB

www.sawstool.co.nz

EMAIL

info@sawstool.co.nz

PHONE

027 4343 797

Designed and Manufactured in New Zealand Patent #612150

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL building@mikemckay.co.nz

332 Williams Street, Kaiapoi 7630 • Mobile 027 434 0025 Phone 03 327 5072 • Fax 03 327 5073 54 | B&C - Issue #115

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Reinforcing steel

Reinforcing steel:

the past, present and future It’s a no-brainer as to why Standards exist. They provide a benchmark for success, establish a policy environment for what accountability in action should look like, and they bring out the best in those required to adhere to them.

More than that, they often exist to ensure that health and safety is respected as a vital priority; particularly within the context of the building and construction industry, and with the use of reinforcing steel.

This particular steel, also known as rebar, has wide application. From bridges to buildings, it has enjoyed a long and highly respected history since its origination in the 15th century. Some of the grandest architecture in the world uses rebar - the Château de Vincennes in the east of Paris, to the Leaning Tower of Nevyansk in Russia.

On home soil, the Standards covering reinforcing steel in New Zealand have been designed specifically for the building and construction industry and environment here.

New Zealand’s leading developer and publisher of Standards and Standards solutions, Standards New Zealand - a business unit with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) - is the authority of knowledge on these Standards.

The entity specialises in the management of Standards’ development and also publishes and sells New Zealand, Australasian and international Standards.

Few would have a better fluency in the history and current status of the reinforcing steel industry Standards than metallurgist, Bruce Roberts of Fletcher Steel, who has a deep technical knowledge.

"

The biggest challenge is ensuring requirements take into consideration the seismic activity here, and then following on from this, is the challenge involved with operating within the parameters set by these requirements.

- Metallurgist, Bruce Roberts

"

Fletcher Steel is New Zealand’s leading importer, distributor and processor of steel and represents Fletcher Building’s Easysteel, Fletcher Reinforcing, Fletcher Wire Productions, Dimond Roofing, Dimond Structural and Pacific CoilCoaters Brands.

A respected voice on reinforcing Standards, Bruce has sat on the Standards Technical Committee (part of Standards New Zealand) for close to two decades.

While there has only been one revision to New Zealand’s reinforcing steel Standards since 2001, the Standards are about to undergo a review, triggered by new grades required in Australia with whom New Zealand shares its Standards.

The importance of the Standards to New Zealand can best be understood by considering the unique seismic conditions of the country and the integral role that reinforcing steel plays in the built environment.

Of the former Bruce comments, “The biggest challenge is ensuring requirements take into consideration the seismic activity here, and then following on from this, is the challenge involved with operating within the parameters set by these requirements.”

Reinforcing steel in New Zealand has vast application and can be found in commercial, industrial, residential buildings and infrastructure. Reinforcing steel and reinforcing mesh go hand-in-hand with resilience, with the steel and mesh acting as the bones of structures and concrete foundations.

Fletcher Steel offers products specifically created to meet New Zealand’s seismic conditions, such as Seismic Grade 500E Bar. This high-tensile, high-ductility plain carbon (micro-alloyed) steel is utilised to reinforce concrete, and is available as plain and deformed rebars.

It meets the demanding requirements of the seismic structural design methods employed in New Zealand as required by local Standards. Grade 500E MA steel is identifiable by registered bar marks, can be threaded and galvanised, and can be hot re-bent.

Seismic Grade 300E Bar offers higher ductility and lower tensile for the reinforcing of concrete and is available as plain and deformed rebars. Grade 300 steel is identifiable by registered bar marks and can be hot or cold bent.

The significant potential of these products is best exemplified by the impressive portfolio of work in Christchurch that is made up of landmark projects, with literal strength at their heart, thanks to the innovative potential of reinforcing steel.

Internationally-renowned Japanese architect Shigeru Ban worked with Christchurch Cathedral staff to deliver an iconic piece of architecture with an aesthetic that defies convention and embraces creativity.

The Cardboard Cathedral in Latimer Square is the result of an inventive response to an inventive brief: design a building that is sustainable, environmentally-friendly, s afe, durable, beautiful and versatile.

No mean feat.

The design is based around 64 cardboard tubes, 830mm in diameter, and ranging in length from 17 - 22 metres. Over a twoweek period in early October 2012, Fletcher Reinforcing placed 120 tonnes of reinforcing steel from Pacific Steel to enable the 800sqm concrete slab to be poured in front of national television.

Six steel placers worked on-site during this period to ensure the reinforcing was ready for the scheduled concrete pour. Amazingly, construction was completed over a threemonth period.

With all of this evidence - really just scratching the surface of the history and potential of reinforcing steel - the value of this material is palpable. As for its future?

New requirements are on the horizon. With New Zealand sharing its Standards with its neighbour across the Ditch, a full revision triggered by the Australian system will in time have effect in New Zealand.

There will be higher Standards for the betterment of the industry which will inevitably results in great new creations with strength at their heart. Watch this space.

For more information about Fletcher Steel, visit: www.fletchersteel.co.nz.

For more information about Standards New Zealand, visit: www.standards.govt.nz.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 55

Reinforcing steel

Your Steel is Safe with ACRS

Interview with Philip Sanders, Chief Executive, ACRS. Ed: “Welcome Philip, so what has been happening in steel compliance recently?”

A. “Thankyou. Well, in the almost 20-years since launching the independent certification scheme for steel reinforcing materials supplied to AS/NZS Standards, ACRS has grown from zero to now assessing the majority of the steel reinforcing bar and mesh supplied to the Australian construction industry, and since commencing in 2010 a major part of the structural steels.

“During this time, we have seen major changes in the perceptions and attitudes held towards ACRS and the benefits we deliver across the entire supply chain: manufacturers, suppliers, designers and builders.

“And to answer these changes, in January we launched the new ACRS steel traceability scheme to give purchasers and suppliers even greater confidence in sourcing steels”

"

Too often, we see good steel ruined by bad fabrication or processing. And unfortunately, many certification schemes focus on factory process and documentation, forgetting that adequate verification of processing or fabrication is vital for compliant product.

"

Q. “Is there a choice in who you can go to for steel supply?”

A. “Yes, ACRS gives you plenty of choice. In fact, more than any other available system. From initial scepticism from suppliers and builders (“Why do we need it?” “How can it help?”, “Won’t it reduce choice and raise prices?”), we are now the steel compliance method of choice for engineers, roads authorities, and major builders.

“ACRS certifies not only the two main domestic Australian manufacturers, but also major world-class, overseas manufacturers who want to demonstrate compliance to AS/ NZS Standards, giving Australian and international purchasers the widest choice of Code-compliant suppliers.”

Q. “How can you assure our readers that they always stand to get quality when they see the ACRS logo?”

A. “Easy, ACRS gives you confidence. More and more specifiers, designers and builders recognise ACRS as the simplest, the most transparent and the most credible means of ensuring that the steel materials supplied onto their projects are what they have specified and what they have paid for. Simplicity, transparency, independence and credibility raise confidence right across the supply-chain.”

Q. “What do our readers need to do to check any reinforcing materials delivered to the jobsite?”

A. “Again that’s easy to answer - ACRS allows simple comparisons.

“By simple, I mean that users and specifiers do not need to make any further checks on the materials supplied beyond checking their suppliers ACRS certification: No more checking individual supply certificates against technical specifications; no more checking batch numbers against the test certificates; no more crossing fingers and hoping that generic guarantees cover all products at all times.

“The bottom line is with ACRS, you don’t have to have a dog and bark yourself - It is easy for your suppliers and easy for you.”

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Q. “Ok, so what make ACRS different?”

A. “The key is ‘end-to-end certification’.

ACRS consistently monitors and certifies two aspects of supply, both of which are essential to ensure the supply of compliant steel: One - ACRS looks at steel mills to ensure steel is manufactured to the correct materials Standard. Two - then ACRS looks at the cutting and bending of the bar or wire, the manufacture of mesh, and the welding of structural steel sections to ensure the finished materials meet the requirements of the Standard, and that the steel stayed compliant throughout the process.

“Too often, we see good steel ruined by bad fabrication or processing. And unfortunately, many certification schemes focus on factory process and documentation, forgetting that adequate verification of processing or fabrication is vital for compliant product.”

Editor: “Philip; thanks for bringing our readers up to date with the essential role that ACRS plays to ensure our steel will perform to Australian Standards requirements. Is there any last point you’d like to say?”

A. “Yes. Always make sure you check the certification of both the steel manufacturer and the supplier of the final material. And if the steel manufacturer and the steel processor or fabricator are both ACRS-certified, you can easily check all of the certificates of every firm, site and process at www.steelcertification.com to confirm the steel arriving on your project is compliant.”

“Or you can contact ACRS directly at info@steelcertification.com.”

Philip Sanders is a Chartered Fellow of the Institution of Engineers Australia, Civils College, with over 30 years’ experience in design, construction, specification, and product conformity.

Reinforcing steel

ACRS - The Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd

Are your construction steels causing problems you cant see?

Having confidence that all buildings and structures are being designed, specified and built using materials that conform with the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards and Building Codes - irrespective of their country of origin - is of critical importance. After all, it doesn't matter how well a building or civil structure is built if a higher risk of structural failure is 'built in' by using non-conforming building products.

Don't end up with a 'rotten apple' - choose ACRS certified steels and have confidence that your construction steels conform with the relevant Standards.

www.steelcertification.com

Ph: +61 2 9965 7216 | E: info@steelcertification.com ABN: 40 096 692 545

ACRS - Independent, Expert Third Party Certification & Verification of Reinforcing, Prestressing and Structural Steels for Compliance with Australian and New Zealand Standards www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 57

Steel construction

Strong ambitions The steel industry in New Zealand is a strong arm of the economy. It contributes approximately one percent to GDP and the metals manufacturing industry employs about 26,000 Kiwis. These numbers are not to be scoffed at.

With that said, it is a trade that has historically struggled to shrug off criticisms it is dragging its heels when it comes to innovation. In the news media, it has been overshadowed by its more disruptive peers with competitive technology behind them. With all of that said, steel has enormous potential.

and through ambitious research and development (R&D), has transformative potential within the construction sector.

The numbers speak for themselves steel’s application in every prosperous and important industry, from energy and construction to automotive and infrastructure, is consequential to economies across the world.

An industry-owned, member-based organisation, HERA is inspiring revolutionary change in metal innovation with strategic partners who are specialists in R&D, consultancy, education, advocacy, certification and verification.

According to World Steel, steel use per capita has significantly increased from 150kg in 2001 to 215kg in 2017, and by 2050, is projected to increase to levels 1.5 times higher than present levels to meet the demands of burgeoning populations.

To appreciate what we have now in the steel industry, and what we can expect from it tomorrow, a walk down memory lane is valuable.

The fact it can be recycled time and time again - given a new lease on life without loss of property - only adds to its value.

An integral part of a circular economy, its prevailing success story promotes a zero waste philosophy and a commitment to a more sustainable future.

Without dispute, it can be said the industry of today and tomorrow has a lot to offer,

HERA is at the helm of catalysing powerful change, harnessing the intellect and imagination of its internal staff and 620-strong members.

In a two-part story, we will look at the evolution of compliance and certification in the context of New Zealand’s steel industry, as well as reviewing upcoming changes to existing standards. HERA provides the commentary for this.

Its Welding Centre general manager, Michail Karpenko, generously and seemingly effortlessly reflects on the industry’s growth, its perseverance, and ambition to always be better.

Meeting of the International Institute of Welding (IIW) Commission X, attended by 10 experts from NZ and Japan in fracture mechanics and seismic issues.

"

We wanted an effective scheme. Today, 29 companies are certified within this scheme and these companies cover around 80 percent of structural steel use by weight.

“Back in the nineties, HERA created the foundation for the development of New Zealand steel related standards including NZ3404, and HERA’s Structural Steelwork Connection Guide, to support the costeffective and resilient design of steel. Both developments stimulated the development of the steel market as designers became more comfortable with the material.”

In this regard, the numbers speak volumes - from buildings to bridges, the use of steel skyrocketed from zero to 60 percent following its introduction, with 80 to 90 percent of Christchurch’s commercial buildings featuring steel frames.

“HERA is also on a number of standards’ committees relating to the design and fabrication of steel and is heavily involved with R&D. “In 1990, a large study was undertaken between HERA and the University of Auckland which involved looking at how structural steel would perform under seismic conditions. This specifically allowed further development of standards that would meet seismic requirements.”

These are the standards currently under review - but more on that in the second installment of this story.

“The Building Code has been a high level document for our industry and includes Appendix B1 which outlines acceptable solutions and verification methods for designing and fabricating steel. But until very recently, we did not have any certification to ensure that everyone complies with the requirements of the listed standards.

“The Government did not give us this, only technical requirements, so we introduced a self-regulatory system ourselves.”

In 2014, the Steel Fabrication Certification Scheme (SFC) was introduced to create a level playing field between competitors and to reinforce certain requirements and standards.

“We wanted an effective scheme. Today, 29 companies are certified within this scheme

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"

- HERA Welding Centre general manager Michail Karpenko

and these companies cover around 80 percent of structural steel use by weight.

“The scheme sets out rules to be followed in order to verify compliance by the structural steel constructors/fabricators to requirements of the standards.

“This addresses compliance risks, safety and reliability of the structural steelwork.

We are working with SCNZ and industry to encourage more uptake throughout the industry through our training, seminars and workshops.”

An independent auditing body, HERA Certifications Ltd, has been established to audit and certify steel fabrication companies.

Identifying the need for a fabrication and erection document that could supplement Australian and New Zealand design and fabrication standards with international best practice, HERA and SCNZ, in cooperation with the Australian Steel Institute, also developed the Structural Steelwork Fabrication and Erection Code of Practice, which was published in 2014.

This became the basis for AS/NZS 5131 structural steelwork - fabrication and erection. The approval of the AS/NZS 5131 in 2016 was another significant milestone for the New Zealand structural steel industry.

Keep an eye out for part two of this story in Builders & Contractors 116, as we look at what is on the horizon for the industry.

In the meantime, visit www.hera.org.nz for more information.

HERA

17-19 Gladding Place Manukau City Auckland (09) 262 2885 www.hera.org.nz

Steel construction

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Issue #115 - B&C | 59

NZDDA

Working excellence and asbestos management WALDO - Working Analytical Login Database Optimization - is an online proprietary system that acts as a data management tool, a health and safety depository and a job tracking system.

When WorkSafe New Zealand implemented new regulations for asbestos management and removal in April 2016, we at ACM Removals recognized that workflow management would have to be trackable and accountable for all aspects of removal process.

recorded and uploaded to this online cloud-based system.

Working with our team of specialised asbestos workers and in coordination with our health and safety manager, we began to craft a workflow process, making sure the system addresses all the aspects of our scope of work and is held to the highest health and safety standards.

Our programmers have made this online platform so easy, it’s now a matter of dropping and dragging any information to this program.

“The system is completely adjusted to our work scope, it tracks every job, from the site visit, quote, WorkSafe notification, asbestos removal control plan and site specific safety plan, to clearance report and invoicing the client,” says manager of health and safety, Mia Maric.

It also has all the information on our equipment, vehicles, employees and health and safety. All our certificates, policies, hazard register, accident/incident/near miss reports, meeting minutes, emergency evacuation drills, tipping records etc. are

That helps us ensure all our information is protected and backed up, and easily accessed from any computer with a username and password.

We have been using it for a year now and it has proven to be very helpful, especially during our audit for the OHSAS 18001:2007 certification. It is a big step forward in modernizing the asbestos industry, although it can be used in a variety of other industries.

“Our employees can access the WALDO app on sites, to check stages of each job, to view or download health and safety paperwork and have their qualifications always available,” states general manager Robert Barton.

WALDO also allows “easy scan in and scan out on sites” for all employees, automatising the timesheets and saving

ACM Removals Ltd Protecting people and the environment from asbestos

WALDO Working Analytical Login Database Optimization

WALDO IS A BIG STEP FORWARD FOR OUR COMPANY, AND IT COULD BENEFIT THE WHOLE INDUSTRY.

time for employees and office administrators.

“It’s a great system!”

They can also upload pictures and videos directly from sites, write notes and scan and upload important paperwork. They also have access to all the information about the client, assigned assessor and other important contacts while on site. By following the tasks in our system, we are all making sure health and safety procedures are in place for each and every site.

By allowing employees to access WALDO they are involved in our progress and they have a better understanding of our processes and health and safety requirements.

Developing WALDO has helped our company establish a clear and sustainable health and safety process that complies with all relevant regulations and legislation, that is easy to follow and automatised as much as possible.

It is a step forward for our company, and it could benefit the whole industry.

Ph 09 527 1829 Email admin@acmr.co.nz Address 38C Hannigan Road, Mount Wellington, Auckland 1072

WALDO is the future of business accountability, enabling tracking of health and safety practices, work documentation, clients, employees, equipment, vehicles etc. It is the easiest way to organize a business!

WALDO establishes a clear and sustainable health and safety process that complies with all relevant regulations and legislation, that is easy to follow and automatized as much as possible.

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NZDAA

Setting excellent standards There would be few locales in New Zealand - or the world for that matter - where the instrumental nature of demolition and asbestos services would be better appreciated, or more in demand, than Christchurch post-earthquake. Both industries are heavyweights in their own right.

Thankfully, leading the charge for the Garden City - and wider New Zealand - is the New Zealand Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA).

Demolition plays a critical role when it comes to natural disasters, strengthening the efforts of first responders and assisting in the clean-up.

By definition, demolition refers to the deconstruction, dismantling, wrecking, pulling, knocking or cutting down of any building, structure, edifice or plant.

NZDAA is the authoritative voice on best practice in this trade. It published guidelines in 2011 titled Best Practice Guidelines for Demolition in New Zealand and these are widely referenced by constituents in the sector and upheld for their excellent standards and procedures.

It plays an important role in the development and life of our cities and neighbourhoods. The construction industry is continually making way for growth by removing dilapidated and hazardous structures to make our cities safer and giving them a new lease of life.

But as well as making way for the new, demolition also assists in the preservation of the old, helping to restore the structural integrity of historical buildings so they stand strong for future generations to enjoy.

NZDAA president Rikki Jones says of the Guidelines, “We are currently in the process of updating the Guidelines to ensure that they align with the latest New Zealand legislation and incorporate learnings from the Christchurch Earthquake of February 2011.

“It is hoped that these updated recommendations will drive even greater safety practices and will be a useful aid to

Demolition and Asbestos Award winners Health & Safety Best Practice

Winner: ACM Removals for their WALDO Online Proprietary System Runner Up: ATL Group for their Portable Self-Decontamination Unit Environmental Best Practice

Winner: Ward Demolition for the Von Haast Project at the University of Canterbury Runner Up: Henderson Demolition for the Drury South Development NZ Native Skinks Project Supplier of the Year

Winner: Hilti Runner Up: Protec Group Asbestos or Demolition Best Practice

Asbestos or Demolition Best Practice Project under $1M

Winner: McMahon Services for the MOTAT Remediation Project Runner Up: MultiCivil for the Victoria University Wellington Rankin Brown Project

those involved in demolition to avoid the potential hazards associated with the work.”

Similarly, the management and removal of asbestos in New Zealand is governed by important doctrines, including the Health & Safety at Work Asbestos Regulations and the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) for Asbestos. All professionals working with asbestos are required to adhere to these regulations at all time.

Asbestos has presented some significant challenges for pan-sector construction.

An appalling death toll resulting from the toxic material is well-documented by the news media with estimations of 170 lives being claimed per year according to a story published by the New Zealand Herald in 2016.

Asbestos was commonly used in building products from the 1940s onwards, and as a result, many New Zealand buildings and homes built before before 1 January 2000 are likely to contain some type of asbestos materials.

There are two types of licences for professionals removing asbestos in New Zealand - Class B licence holders can only remove non-friable asbestos and Class A licence holders can remove all types of asbestos including friable.

As well as being licensed, people carrying out asbestos work should be competent and sufficiently trained in how to work with asbestos safely.

Asbestos or Demolition Best Practice Project over $1M

Winner: Nikau Contractors for the Defence House Deconstruction Project.

Runners Up: - ATL Group for the Penrose Active Warehouse Roof Removal Project - Central Demolition for the David O McKay Building Project - Ward Demolition for the Springs Road Project

Project under $20k

Services to Asbestos or Demolition

Winner: ATL Group for their work on the HNZ’s Housing portfolio initiative Runner Up: Henderson Demolition for Project Martin - Structural Floor Collapse Remediation, North Shore

Winner: Alec Burrell Asbestos or Demolition Contractor of the Year

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ANALYSTS & CONSULTANTS

Winner: Nikau Contractors

Asbestos Analysis

Asbestos Management

Occupational Hygiene

Methamphetamine Assessments

www.dowdellassociates.co.nz 0800 DOWDELL (369 335) www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 61

NZDAA

Nikau Delivering strategic deconstruction and environmental remediation Nikau is New Zealand’s most experienced company in the removal of asbestos and other hazardous materials.

This experience paid off late last year with Nikau taking out two awards at the Demolition and Asbestos Awards, held in Auckland on 30th November 2018.

Nikau won the supreme award, Asbestos and Demolition Contractor of the Year, and also won the award for Demolition and Asbestos Best Practice Project over $1M for their work on the Defence House Deconstruction Project, Wellington.

The awards provide the opportunity for companies working in the demolition and/or asbestos industry to showcase and celebrate best practice and innovation.

Delivering best practice Helina Stil, Nikau’s asbestos health and safety manager, says since they started removing asbestos in the mid 1980s, they have been involved in most of New Zealand’s largest and most complex asbestos removal projects.

Removing friable asbestos contamination from the Meremere Power Station Waikato, was one such major project.

Taking a year, with 24hour shifts, the demolition and asbestos removal work was co-jointly carried out under full friable asbestos conditions.

Safety a joint award by the NZ Contractors Federation and OSH in recognition of Nikau’s achievement for maintaining these stringent health and safety standards in such a complex job.

Removing asbestos from Greenlane Hosptial, Auckland was another major job which presented unique challenges for Nikau. Not only in terms of the stringent health and hygiene requirements demanded when working in a medical facility, but in terms of working around the hospital’s schedule.

The work was further complicated because the power station had been decommissioned in the early 1990s and about 25 percent of the structure had been removed.

One job involved removing asbestos from the cardiology department. They worked primarily after hours, but as Helina says, heart attacks don’t keep to a schedule, so often the team had to clear out at very short notice.

This meant before they could start removing the asbestos the company effectively had to rebuild parts of the power station wall façades to close the building off.

“This was a unique project. Working in a live hospital demanded extremely good communication between all the groups involved.”

The project demanded stringent health and safety requirements, and the company received the Supreme Award for Health and

Perhaps one of the hardest projects undertaken by Nikau, if only from an emotional point of view, was working in

Christchurch in the immediate aftermath of the 2011 earthquake.

Helina and her mother Diana Stil worked closely with Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) to get equipment and men to sites as quickly and as efficiently as possible to help save lives.

With their extensive industry contacts they managed to reduce the time that contractors were arriving at sites with the correct equipment from up to two hours, to a matter of minutes.

Staff from Nikau also worked on the collapsed Pyne Gould Corporation building.

This building had pancaked, killing 18 people and leaving many trapped.

Nikau team members were involved in helping free trapped people, and in removing the bodies of people who had died in the building, which, as Helina says, was understandably a harrowing experience.

“There was a lot of psychological support in place for the USAR team, but nothing in place for the contractors. These are big burly guys who aren’t the sort to sit around and

talk about their feelings, so it’s been a hard time for them. They needed a lot of support but they didn’t necessarily get it.”

Following the earthquakes, Nikau was involved in the demolition of major buildings around Christchurch, including the Government Life building on Latimer Square.

Helina says this building probably had the most asbestos she had ever come across. “It was all over the beams, the columns and the underside of the slabs, really nasty stuff.”

Removal took about 14 months, and was done under difficult conditions, with aftershocks still a regular occurrence.

This involved major health and safety requirements to keep staff safe, and prevent uncontrolled collapse of the damaged building.

Helina says a lot of lessons were learnt in Christchurch about the need for stringent regulations around asbestos disposal and the use of qualified and experienced contractors.

Lessons which she hopes the industry as a whole has taken on board.

Nikau offer specialist expertise in the following areas: • Deconstruction and Dismantling • Demolition • Asbestos Abatement and Land Remediation • Specialist Concrete Cutting • Earthworks • Scrap Metal Recycling • Construction Waste and Concrete Recycling.

Nikau Group fast facts

• Trading since 1980 • 100% New Zealand owned family company • Trading Pacific Wide • World Demolition Contractor of the Year 2013 • World Demolition Award Finalists 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2015 • Recipient New Zealand Defence Force Excellence to Industry Award 62 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

• Honorary Member United Kingdom Urban Search and Rescue Team • Multiple Regional and National winner OHS/E Awards and Commendations • Accredited provider to Government Agencies and Blue Chip companies • Members of the New Zealand Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA), National Demolition Association (NDA) and European Demolition Association (EDA).

Nikau Group T (09) 636 5917 admin@nikaugroup.com www.nikaugroup.com

NZDAA

STRATEGIC DECONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL

Nikau Contractors Ltd, WORLD WINNING specialists in the most technical and complex areas of demolition and deconstruction.

HEAD OFFICE AND SALES 355 CHURCH STREET, Penrose, Auckland, New Zealand Phone: +64 9 636 5917 • Enquiries: admin@nikaugroup.com Webiste: www.nikaugroup.com

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Issue #115 - B&C | 63

NZDAA

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Health & Safety Best Practice

When a company or a consumer chooses an NZDAA member, they should feel confident they are dealing with a professional who stands for best practice and adheres to all relevant regulations, approved Codes of Practices and the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015.

- NZDAA communications manager Sarah Tohill

There are a number of situations where the presence of asbestos and asbestoscontaining material (ACM) in a workplace must be identified.

One means of identifying asbestos and ACM is to have a survey carried out by an asbestos surveyor. An asbestos surveyor needs to have sufficient training, qualifications, knowledge, experience and the ability to sample and identify asbestos.

An asbestos assessor provides air quality monitoring during removal work, inspects the finished job and provides a clearance certificate. An assessor’s licence is required to carry out air monitoring and issue clearance certificates for all Class A (friable) asbestos removal sites.

Worksafe New Zealand published its Management and Removal of Asbestos Code of Practice in November 2016.

This provides a comprehensive outline of New Zealand’s expectations in relation to identifying and controlling the work health and safety risks arising from asbestos in order to help workers achieve compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016.

The code was developed with input from unions, employer organisations, other key stakeholders and the public. With the right attitude and actions of workers, it is

ACM Removals for their WALDO Online Proprietary System

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projected that that the Code will contribute to a 50 percent reduction in asbestos-related diseases by 2040.

As captured in the Foreword of the Worksafe Code, “This will help duty holders comply with their requirement to provide health and safety work for everyone who works in the asbestos industry. It will also help make sure that other people do not have their health and safety adversely affected by the work conducted.

“Organisations benefit from having less downtime from incidents and higher productivity. An organisation known for its commitment to health and safety can benefit from its improved reputation.

“We must all work together to make sure that everyone who goes to work comes home healthy and safe. By working together, we’ll bring work-related harm down by making sure that all work conducted is healthy and safe.”

This ambition goes right to the heart of NZDAA’s purpose and it is why its members thrive. An NZDAA membership has multitudinous benefits.

First and foremost, becoming a member means gaining access to a network of professionals whose work and knowledge is shaping the demolition and asbestos industries on a national and global scale.

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WALDO is an online, cloud-based proprietary system that acts as a data management tool, health and safety depository and a job tracking system.

The system tracks every job from start to finish and contains all job information including equipment, certificates and other documentation. WALDO enables easy tracking of day-to-day health and safety procedures.

Accidents, or near misses are uploaded, informing site supervisors to give help where necessary. A report trail is then produced and reviewed. All new employees are also entered into the system with their training needs and courses scheduled.

Employees can access the WALDO app on sites, to check stages of each job, to view or download health and safety paperwork, and have their qualifications always available. By allowing employees to access WALDO, they can be involved in the progress and have a better understanding of processes and health and safety requirements.

Environmental Best Practice Ward Demolition for the Von Haast Project at the University of Canterbury The Von Haast Building is a four-storey building that was part of the original central hub at the University of Canterbury.

New buildings and facilities have been constructed around the building following the Canterbury Earthquake.

The demolition work needed to be completed with the daily activities of a busy university going on around the Members receive the latest information on regulations, industry best practices and training. A number of opportunities are provided for members to meet, correspond and exchange knowledge relevant to the demolition and asbestos industries, both online and face-to-face.

“When a company or a consumer chooses an NZDAA member, they should feel confident they are dealing with a professional who stands for best practice and adheres to all relevant regulations, approved Codes of Practices and the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015,” communications manager Sarah Tohill says.

A significant highlight and major initiative is the NZDAA’s award programme. The second annual Awards were held in Auckland on 30 November 2018.

building and many restrictions and controls were in place to minimise the environmental impact including noise, dust and structural connections to the retained buildings.

Prior to demolition commencing, structural reinforcement was required on existing ground tunnels and services, and internal temporary bracing needed to be installed. The success of this project was due to the detailed planning and communication with all parties and stakeholders in the period leading up to the project.

Best Practice Over $1M Nikau Contractors for Defence House Deconstruction Project The project scope consisted of the demolition of Defence House on Aitken Street in Thorndon, Wellington - the headquarters for the Ministry of Defence. Following the November 2016 earthquake, the building was deemed unsafe and the 50,000sqm, 9 level structure with a basement and roof/ plant built in 2008 was determined uneconomical to repair.

The location of the building - being at the centre of the Government Precinct with high vehicle and pedestrian traffic, only metres away from the site - meant that numerous constraints from council around environmental and public safety issues restricted the methods that could be used.

The final methodology that Nikau implemented to complete the project was a combination of approaches resulting in more than eight months of time-saving when compared to other scenarios, along with cost savings for the entire project. and/or asbestos industry to showcase and celebrate best practice and innovation.

Overviews of several of the major winners can be discovered in the fact files accompanying this story along with the full list of winners and runners up.

The winners’ collective innovation shapes the industry today and futureproofs its future.

NZDAA PO BOX 25620 St Heliers Bay Auckland 1107 0800 469 322 nzdaa@nzdaa.com www.nzdaa.com

The awards provide the opportunity for companies working in the demolition

For all your demolition and asbestos removal Requirements Cutting Edge Methods • Latest Equipment • Cost Effective Solutions

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www.waikatodemolition.co.nz

Robert Laing Contracting

Moving the earth for their clients For concept to completion site works throughout the Dunedin and surrounding areas, Robert Laing Contracting has the expertise, experience and equipment to get the job done right.

Whether you are considering a complex project or you have a simpler, more straight-forward request in mind, Robert Laing will be there to walk you through the entire process, having as little or as much involvement in your project as you dictate.

They have the skill, the experience and the machinery to tackle your project with ease.

Wherever you are in Dunedin, they can deliver your job on time and within budget.

Contact the team for a free, no-obligation consultation and quotation on 021 557 788, or visit www.robertlaingcontracting.nz.

Robert Laing puts the emphasis on reliability through quality workmanship, product guarantee and best practice.

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We have the skill, the experience and the machinery to tackle your project with ease.

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Quality and professionalism is what we do.

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Range of services include: • Trench digging • Excavations and earthmoving

It’s upon these qualities the team has built a strong, southern following over more than 10 years.

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They have the skill, the experience and the machinery to tackle your project with ease.

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Issue #115 - B&C | 65

Cement and concrete

Building resilience The numbers for concrete use in New Zealand speak volumes.

For example, national ready-mix concrete production topped 1.08 million cubic metres in the September 2018 quarter, the second-highest volume on record, according to Statistics New Zealand figures.

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its high compressive strength, concrete has multitudinous features and benefits.

Nationwide production up to the end of the 2018 September quarter stands at 3.045 million cubic metres for the year to date, up from 3.029 million cubic metres recorded in same time last year.

Today, concrete is hugely popular on home soil in New Zealand. The pre-eminent global building material for load-bearing structures, concrete’s application is increasingly diverse, covering new residential, infrastructure and commercial construction.

Output increased in Auckland where most of the country’s construction activity is taking place. The figures represent record production volumes for both Auckland city and the wider region going back several decades.

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This result continued the high levels of the previous two years.

Elsewhere, the greater Wellington, Taranaki, and Manawatu-Wanganui region is performing well, as is the Wellington metro area.

From its incombustible nature and invaluable use as a passive means of temperature control and fire resistance, to

A powerful advocate Concrete also has a powerful advocate; championing the way for transformative change and born from a desire “to do better”, Concrete NZ’s establishment in late 2017 was a watershed moment for the industry.

The consolidated association, designed to bring confidence, knowledge and leadership to members, industry and regulators, has already achieved this in its short lifespan.

Cement and concrete

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Learned Society goals and activities

They get an opportunity to listen to project based papers from engineering and construction aspects, including new techniques and difficulties they had to overcome, so there is a strong educational side to the conference.

The goals and activities are: • Affiliate and liaise with other organisations of similar or allied interests • Support, and undertake where appropriate, training courses and seminars • Disseminate information on prestressed and reinforced precast and cast in-situ concrete and related materials to members to advise them of key items of interest

"

- Concrete NZ event manager Allan Bluett

Concrete NZ’s role is fundamental and significant, especially in light of the fact New Zealand’s construction sector plays a significant role in the economy and concrete is right at the heart of this. Construction is the fifth largest sector, employs more than 170,000 people, and is a $30 billion-plus-peryear sector.

Concrete NZ aims to be a highly respected and valued association, supporting industry to position concrete as the resilient construction material of choice for a modern New Zealand.

Its major annual initiative, the Concrete NZ Conference, will be discussed in the tail end of this piece.

For now, it is the Concrete NZ Learned Society, and all of its merits, that are the subject of this story.

The Concrete NZ Learned Society was formerly the New Zealand Concrete Society, which was incorporated in 1964.

• Encourage research and foster the developments of new techniques for design, construction, maintenance and repair

At the Concrete Industry Conference at Wairakei Resort, Taupo, in October 2014, Gavin Cormack presented an address celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Concrete Society.

The Committee establishes and maintains relationships with appropriate local, national and international bodies where this will further the objectives of the Society.

Its scholarly focus differentiates the Learned Society from the other Sector Groups of Concrete NZ; with an emphasis on ‘Learned’, the Society is driven by technical excellence and not influenced by external commercial interests.

The Society’s objectives

Governance on behalf of the membership is provided by the Society Committee. This body comprises a broad cross-section of industry representatives who are committed to promoting good concrete construction and developing industry networks.

The primary objective of the Society is to encourage a greater understanding and appreciation of all aspects of structural and architectural concrete and to support their development and use where appropriate.

It facilitates the sharing of industry knowledge, participates in the development of concrete and construction, and provides a foundation for building valuable business networks in New Zealand and overseas.

• Participate in the development of appropriate standards, codes of practice and specifications. Invitations to contribute and comment on concrete and other related standards are sought from the Society and its members • Provide a channel for discussion with Government, Government departments, or other organisations.

A non-profit organisation, where members reap the benefit of their combined contributions, it aims to encapsulate the wealth of expertise of its membership and to output this in the form of seminars, technical publications and conferences for the betterment of the concrete and construction industry at large.

Tool of the trade One of the most taken-forgranted tools of the trade is the often used but rarely celebrated wheelbarrow.

The workhorse on any site, the wheelbarrow gets pushed, pulled and even thrown around, dumped on, smashed and generally abused to make our lives easier. And we like it that way.

New Zealand Wheelbarrows’ wheelbarrows are built to withstand the hard times and designed to make the hard work that much simpler.

From concreting to rubble, hard-fill removal and hot mix and soil, there is a New Zealand Wheelbarrow that will suit your needs and is built to last. Ask for us at your usual supplier.

“Our new Electric Wheelbarrow has been design and built here in New Zealand. It offers the robust hardwearing integrity you will find in all our barrows while allowing you to save your knees, back and energy on those demanding jobs.”

The powerful 48volt, 500 watt brushless hub motor will power a full 160kg load up steep slopes and over planks with little effort and the Ion-lithium battery will run for two days on a single charge.

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Our new Electric Wheelbarrow has been design and built here in New Zealand. It offers the robust hardwearing integrity you will find in all our barrows while allowing you to save your knees, back and energy on those demanding jobs.

The flagship wheelbarrow of the construction industry built and proven to last. Available with the standard plastic tray, metal tray or a double galvanised tray.

The pre-galvanised frame and components mean it will last and last.

Purpose built for concreting. Fantastic balance, this wheelbarrow is perfect for transporting and placing concrete. Made to the highest specifications.

Bolt free with reinforced plastic tray.

Comfortable non-slip handgrips and of course a pourer. Special wide stable legs for a strong and secure design.

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The brake allows much more control downhill and when tipping, while also charging the battery.

When the more you get done in the least amount time, with as little injury and downtime from your staff, the better you start to see this beast as a logical progression and a great investment.

Visit www.nzwheelbarrows.co.nz email justin@nzwheelbarrows.co.nz or call Justin on 021462872.

Our Power Barrow has been proving its worth in the construction industry.

This electric workhorse is powered by a 48 volt, 500 watt hub motor with enough in the battery to get you through 2 days of commercial use before recharging.

This beast will walk you uphill fully loaded with 160kg with no problem and the brake gives you full control downhill as well. Get the most out of your day, and team while saving their back and knees.

“I thought it was a gimmick, now I have 6 for my teams and we get more done than ever.

I wish I’d seen this years ago”.

Test drives available.

Email or call: Justin@nzwheelbarrows.co.nz, 021 462 872.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 67

Cement and concrete

VISION & MISSION Concrete NZ seeks to become... a highly respected and valued association, supporting industry to position concrete as the resilient construction material of choice for a modern New Zealand... and be perceived as… the concrete industry’s consolidated voice, bringing confidence, knowledge and leadership to members, industry and regulators.

VALUES

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Then there is the networking - engineers and contractors by nature are good at sharing, and it always amazes me how open the trade of information is. As peers they share how they handled certain situations.

"

- Concrete NZ event manager Allan Bluett

If you want to be a member or if you want to be a partner, this is how Concrete NZ operates in its own words.

The Society participates and facilitates training at all levels within the concrete construction industry. It assists in identifying innovations that can enhance the industry and areas of concern that need attention.

Unified We will work hard to come together and stay unified, integrative and inclusive.

It has been involved in many successful seminars over recent years, partnering with other industry groups to produce events that assist designers and practitioners.

Flexible We will remain agile, reshaping with the changing needs of industry.

In addition, the Society has agreements with the American Concrete Institute (ACI) and Concrete Institute of Australia (CIA), which enables it to obtain benefits such as pre-packaged seminars, website links and reciprocal member entitlements for technical publications and conference registrations.

Tenacious We advocate for our customers – we ask ourselves the hard questions.

Professional We take a factual and professional approach.

Courses and seminars will generally qualify for Engineering New Zealand (formerly IPENZ) continuing professional development credits.

Quality based Focused on standards and committed to quality excellence.

Internationally, the Society also has a long-term relationship with the Federation Internationale du Beton (fib). Through its affiliations, the Society has the opportunity to join international committees as consulting or corresponding members.

• Driveways • New Home Specialists • Earthquake Repairs • Patios & Paths

Concrete NZ Conference A key activity on the Society’s event calendar is the annual Concrete NZ Conference.

The Society’s interests are very much interrelated with those of Concrete NZ. This is a powerful consolidated association that offers effective liaison, and partnering with other organisations strengthens the position of concrete in the marketplace and extends the level of knowledge.

This conference allows both members and non-members to participate in the whole range of Society activities with broad industry participation.

Internationally renowned keynote speakers are sought to address conference delegates, and a wide range of technical papers are presented on projects, design, methodologies, materials, innovative techniques and R&D.

The Society promotes ‘R&D’, facilitates academic research and provides a study fellowship each year. As part of the consolidated concrete industry association Concrete NZ – the Society is able to advocate on a range of issues.

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Your Key To Floor Preparation Success 68 | B&C - Issue #115

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Cement and concrete

The conference is an excellent opportunity to participate in professional development and network with key people in the industry.

The theme for the 2018 conference was ‘Progress Through Collaboration’ and as the name suggests, it marked a new beginning of the conference being promoted under the unified banner of Concrete NZ. The Concrete NZ Conference for 2019 will be held from Thursday 10 October to Saturday 12 October at the Dunedin Centre in Dunedin.

Event manager Allan Bluett comments, “The annual Concrete NZ conference heads to the Deep South in 2019, and for the first time ever, will be held in Dunedin.

“Members who hail from this part of the world can confirm that it is one of the most spectacularly scenic regions in New Zealand, with plenty of attractions and activities

to be savoured around the conference.

Feedback about the destination has been overwhelmingly positive, and we expect a very good attendance.

“Attendees tend to be the decision-makers in their industry, and there is a great level of interest from engineers, contractors and suppliers to the industry - both precast and ready mix.

“They get an opportunity to listen to project based papers from engineering and construction aspects, including new techniques and difficulties they had to overcome, so there is a strong educational side to the conference.

“Then there is the networking - engineers and contractors by nature are good at sharing, and it always amazes me how open the trade of information is. As peers they share how they handled certain situations.”

Every two years, the Society invites applications for the Concrete Awards.

These comprise the Concrete, Monte Craven Architectural Building, Infrastructure, Residential, Landscaping, and Technology Concrete Awards.

The Awards represent an opportunity for industry to applaud excellence in concrete construction and the awards are presented at the Concrete NZ Conference.

These prestigious awards are keenly contested and provide deserved recognition for outstanding achievements in the advancement of concrete practice in design, construction, rehabilitation or research.

Conference registration is open to all people interested and involved in the building construction industry. For more information about the Learned Society, go to www.concretenz.org.nz/page/learned_ society_home.

Concrete NZ Level 4 Solnet House 70 The Terrace Wellington (04) 499 8820 admin@ concretenz.org.nz www.concretenz.org.nz

For more information about what the conference can offer you, visit www.theconcreteconference.co.nz.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 69

Green building

Green building benefits We were discussing the value of renewable energy long before the turn of the century, yet only as far back as 15 years ago New Zealand didn’t have a single certified green building; we didn’t even have any certifiable tools for measuring the environmental attributes and performance of buildings.

The establishment of the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC) in 2005 however introduced New Zealand’s archaic building mindset to the paradigms of modern construction.

The NZGBC started with 31 members and now has upwards of 450. It brings together all those involved in the property and construction industries, to agree a common language.

The NZGBC is the catalyst behind both the 25,000 homes being built to Homestar standard over the next six years, and the now multiple tools for assessing buildings’ eco-friendliness.

Anyone involved in designing, building, supplying or managing properties or homes is eligible to join – the only requirement being an interest in healthier, better buildings.

NZBGC executive director, Andrew Eagles, acknowledges it’s a well-known fact that New Zealand’s building code doesn’t fare well on an international scale and while we have come a long way in 14 years, there’s still a long way to go.

“There’s very clear recommendations from international agencies that NZ’s building code is very poor by international standards, specifically the OECD and International Energy Agency,” Andrew says.

The NZGBC became recognised as a member of the World Green Building Council in 2006 and works tirelessly to improve the health and quality of New Zealand buildings and homes.

“We’re seeing involvement from architects, builders, quantity surveyors and other costing experts in construction; then we have the real estate owners of commercial buildings; and now that the tools also cover health, retail and hotel buildings, we’re seeing a wider range of interest from property owners, landlords, local authorities, and government agencies,” Andrew says.

was only 1.7 percent more expensive than the building code – whereas people may be led to believe it’s as much as five to ten percent higher,” he says.

For an initial 1.7 percent you then have healthier places in which to live and work and as a result, family and workers are happier, healthier, more productive, and generally experiencing improved quality of life.

There’s a perception of complexity and costs surrounding building green, but the reality is quite different, Andrew says.

Then there’s existing buildings. There are approximately 1.8million existing homes in New Zealand and 40,000 existing buildings, and we still need to work on improving those.

“To give an indication, we had QS firm Rawlinsons investigate and they found that building to Homestar standard as a minimum

“Probably the single biggest opportunity right now is how we repurpose our existing buildings,” Andrew says.

Beware the perception

"

There’s very clear recommendations from international agencies that NZ’s building code is very poor by international standards, specifically the OECD and International Energy Agency.

- NZBGC executive director, Andrew Eagles

"

Committed to carboNZero Leading the engineering, surveying and planning industries by example, Davis Ogilvie (DO) is proud to have been carboNZero certified for the last four years.

Engineering and surveying industries can lead the way to a cleaner, greener future with innovators like DO setting new benchmarks.

DO are taking steps to reduce their impact on the environment, and mitigating their emissions with the purchase of carbon credits in the Hinewai Forest on Banks Peninsular.

This local support aims to increase the area of native forest on private land in New Zealand while providing an income for landowners, reducing New Zealand’s greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere, and allowing biodiversity to flourish, reduce soil emission, and improve catchment water quality.

DOING THE HARD WORK / / / / / /

Surveying Resource Management Civil Engineering Structural Engineering Geotechnical Engineering Environmental Science

70 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Becoming a member of the Superhome Movement recently was further validation of DO’s commitment to a future New Zealand that’s environmentally respectful.

Seizing an opportunity to incorporate new and more sustainable features, DO recently moved to a custom-fitted office that operates off a solar power system and includes a Biofuel tank, containing a 10 percent biodiesel blend, to assist in reducing their emissions while using their vehicles for day to day business, given a large part of their

business involves attending sites around the South Island.

DO’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions complements a company culture that encourages greater collaboration and sharing of expertise, of which clients reap the benefits.

Contact Davis Ogilvie’s Christchurch, Nelson, Greymouth or Timaru office today for leading engineering, surveying and planning services with a conscience.

0800 999 333 hello@do.nz www.do.nz Christchurch / Timaru Greymouth / Nelson

Green building

New Zealand’s iconic green buildings • The Meridian Building at 33 Customhouse Quay, Wellington was New Zealand’s first completed 5 Green Star building rated under the NZGBC’s Green Star – Office Design V1 certification scheme.

“There’s a great piece from BECA showing that retrofitting 1200 of our larger buildings would save all of the energy that all of the wind turbines in NZ generate.”

Many people fit out when they move into a building – they repurpose it, put in new elements, etcetera – and this can be done to a high green standard.

It is far more sustainable to not knock a building down and rather retrofit it. Because if you can achieve a Green Star rating through retrofitting, you’re not putting so much construction waste back into the landfill.

Whether building new or renovating, what many people don’t consider with enough importance, Andrew says, is the benefit for them in terms of being able to market the home for sale. Simply put, the running costs are far lower and the quality of life far improved.

Furthermore, to be able to say, ‘This house is independently verified as being healthy, warm, and sustainable’, are very strong

• Aorangi House was once a tired, outdated structure but is now the proud claimant of a 5.5 NABERSNZ rating complete with bragging rights as one of NZ’s most energysmart buildings and co-winner of the Leadership in Sustainable Design & Performance Award in the Commercial category at the World GBC awards in Singapore 2018.

marketing credentials. Builders now using Homestar say those credentials are worth far more than the cost of installing them.

Cost-savings of converting existing buildings into green buildings

“As sustainability rises in the consciences of New Zealanders, I think more people will be looking for third-party verification,” Andrew says.

• The Auckland Council engaged Green Star for one of their existing buildings and is now saving $200,000 a year in energy bills.

Win the battle, win the war The advocating NZGBC does on behalf of World GBC is beginning to result in noticeable shifts in both consumer and industry behaviour, so it’s worth noting it is winning the battle.

The 25,000 homes being built to Homestar over the next six years equates to approximately 10 percent of the homes being built each year. That figure may rise still, but already it’s a four-fold increase on two years ago and showing strong momentum in the right direction.

Additionally, Green Star ratings are up 60 percent on previous years.

and offering them free engagement in our events, information and competitions, etc, about construction and property, so that they can start to think about a sustainable future for New Zealand,” Andrew says.

Well aware of how determinative of longterm behaviour these early years are, NZGBC is focused on working with future generations of potential members.

“The idea is that as they become middle management and leaders in the industry, they have already built a connection with sustainability that will continue into a lifelong partnership,” Andrew says.

“They are our future, and equally we get out of it their passion and energy and innovation.”

NZGBC is dedicated to working alongside existing and emerging members, government and industry, as well as industry initiatives, to create and maintain a landscape that not only allows for but encourages ease of completion when it comes to building green.

• Te Puni Kokiri House in Wellington now saves $80,000 a year in energy bills as a result of converting to a Green Star building.

New Zealand Green Building Council

NZGBC Future Thinkers One of the initiatives NZGBC has implemented is the NZGBC Future Thinkers programme.

“NZGBC Future Thinkers is an excellent initiative that colleague Susan Blayney runs, where we’re engaging with students

Level 2, Tower 1 205 Queen Street Auckland (09) 379 3996 info@nzgbc.org.nz www.nzgbc.org.nz

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Issue #115 - B&C | 71

Futureproofing / Weathertightness

Built to last?

New Zealand’s building industry has yielded some stunning results - from creative architectural typology in the residential sector, to industrial construction that pushes the envelope.

of lack of weathertightness, leading to unhealthy built environments and decaying homes.

Unequivocally, there are compelling results to be celebrated and that have set a high benchmark.

This change allowed the utilisation of untreated timber for wall framing. When this timber became wet, it started to rot, and due to the introduction of increased insulation during this time, the moisture that came into contact with the untreated timber was slower to evaporate.

But like many facets of life, the good often comes with the not-so-flattering reality of what can happen when standards are not what they should be or are blatantly ignored.

New Zealand’s news media headlines - while often sensationalised by nature - have lifted the lid on some uncomfortable and accurate truths about where the building and construction industry has fallen short on one of the most fundamental necessities in the sector - weathertightness.

Looking back at the catalyst for this particular crisis, there are many triggers.

One factor in particular was that the New Zealand Standard for Timber Treatment was changed in 1995, though was not cited in the Building Code until 1998, leading to a general acceptance of untreated timber for domestic house building.

Cheap Monolithic cladding was also approved at this juncture, but was not always used within its specifications or installed correctly, leading to more mayhem.

"

The thing to remember though, is that if you make a mistake in oneunit design, and that is then repeated 1,000 times, this can cause significant problems.

Good planning and robust design are paramount.

- Maynard Marks building surveyor Trevor Jones

"

The fires at Grenfell Tower in London and Torch Tower in Dubai, which have drawn disturbing parallels, have triggered more checks and balances in New Zealand.

We have all heard of the significant losses that come as a consequence of leaky homes.

Weathertightness expert, Chartered and Registered Building Surveyor Trevor Jones of Maynard Marks Limited warns, “Regarding weathertightness, not dealing with the causes of leaking is like a ticking time bomb”.

Trevor says these experiences, and the critical learning derived from them must be heeded, and the prevailing issues in the New Zealand industry addressed.

“Memories can be short and people start to push the boundaries using new materials.

This saga is a hangover from negligence in the 1990s and 2000s and has been an ongoing headache for the building sector, government, and affected residents, with many buildings compromised as a result

The New Zealand Institute of Building Surveyors member also adds that global events have shone a spotlight on other aspects of New Zealand construction, such as fireproofing and structural engineering.

“There is also a drive right now with KiwiBuild using prefab; the idea is that things built in a factory setting are able to meet higher standards because arguably you have greater quality control.

Trevor Jones “The thing to remember though, is that if you make a mistake in one-unit design, and that is then repeated 1,000 times, this can cause significant problems. Good planning and robust design are paramount.”

Trevor also expresses concern about the infiltration of offshore pseudo-materials that aren’t up to scratch.

He maintains that substitution materials in the construction arena can spell trouble, and that the advice by architectects and designers on which particular products to use should be respected by builders, rather than going down a road less travelled and using alternative products with questionable integrity.

For those who own a leaky home in New Zealand, they have options to resolve these issues under the Weathertight Homes Resolution Services Act of 2006, which will be covered in the second instalment of this story. Keep an eye out for the Builders & Contractors 116 issue.

Frame Protection Systems Frame Protection Systems (FPS®) is a new underlay system that protects both timber and steel walls and roof frames from outside weather and internal moisture during construction; fundamentally extending the lifespan of buildings.

Set up in 2014 by Grant Murray and Gwyn Williamson, the owners wanted to bring a comprehensive Codemark certified “system” to the New Zealand building and construction industry.

FPS® Weathertight® comprises a range of flexible membranes and components for roofs and walls.

This superior building weathertightness and moisture management system complies with European and British standards and exceeds New Zealand standards.

“We developed a system that provided protection to a building during construction and for the lifetime of the building without compromise,” Gwyn says.

“All components are further tested for system compatibility and suitability in the New Zealand climate.”

Easy to install and cost and time effective, FPS manages and distributes the entire system. Backed with more than 15 years’ experience in marketing, sales, product development and logistics, you know you’re getting sound support and advice from the qualified and experienced team.

Furthermore, commitment to deliver a high standard of workmanship with the ultimate performance system, FPS invests in inhouse research and development.

For an exceptional increased performance in construction durability, thermal, indoor air quality and energy efficiency, FPS has you covered; thoroughly tested, proven and certified for all New Zealand conditions.

Frame Protection System Ltd supplies the whole System to clients nationwide – get in touch to learn more or to discuss your project.

FPS® Weathertight® is a Codemark certified “System” consisting of flexible membranes, tapes and fixings.

When correctly installed the system will provide interim weather protection to the construction before the exterior cladding is complete, allowing internal works to continue. The system will also provide long term protection of the building by excluding external moisture and wind, while allowing interstitial moisture to be transmitted to the outside cavity.

Tape

Flashings, Sills and Seams

Membranes Roof & Wall Underlay

Seals

For Pipes & Conduits

Phone 0800 723 426 | E-mail info@frameprotection.co.nz | www.frameprotection.co.nz 72 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Futureproofing / Weathertightness

Leaky building basics Features of a leaky building 1. Ground clearance: Inadequate cladding clearance to ground, paving or decks or insufficient fall away from building perimeter. Clearance to solid ground (concrete, asphalt, paving, decking timber) should be 150mm; clearance to soil 225mm.

2. Cracking: Look for hairline cracks in the cladding, typically found close to windows and doors or discolouration of cladding around these areas.

3. Joinery: Check for cracks along the joinery seals which can allow water ingress.

4. Penetrations: Check all penetrations in the cladding, for example around pipes, vents and meter boxes, for gaps and lack of sealant. Also check to ensure meter boxes are flashed correctly - the lack of flashing or reliance on sealant may allow water to penetrate.

5. Pergolas: Pergola frame penetrating the cladding or direct fixed through the cladding may result in water ingress.

6. Windows: Check window flashings to ensure they are correctly installed. Round, shaped or corner windows are difficult to flash, increasing the risk of water ingress.

Check for staining below the window.

7. Enclosed Balcony / Cantilever Deck: Enclosed balconies and cantilever decks can result in a multitude of risks. (a) A lack of fall on the balustrade, (b) Handrailings attached through the plaster cladding, (c) Poorly applied waterproof membrane, (d) Insufficient drainage holes allowing water to pool after rain, (e) Lack of clearance between the cladding and the balcony floor - all are signs that water may be penetrating the building’s exterior.

8. Interior Signs: These can include swollen or cracked skirting boards or architraves; mould on the inside of curtains and window liners; floor coverings showing signs of water damage; and swelling, cracking and popping of wall liners.

Steps to remediating a leaky home The words ‘leaky home’ may send chills up your spine, but HOBANZ makes the process straightforward and easy to follow.

Step 1 Call HOBANZ for independent advice and to discuss the options that are available to you.

Step 2 HOBANZ will provide an initial consultation where they will review any available reports.

In partnership with you, they will develop a tailored solution that meets your specific needs and circumstances. If required they

can introduce legal experts for an overview of the likely success of any claim.

Step 3 Engage HOBANZ to put together a team of experienced independent professionals.

HOBANZ has a proven track record in creating successful solutions for leaky home owners, key to which is the organisation’s ability to link trusted professionals to form one cohesive unit.

Step 4 HOBANZ will guide and support you through the journey. The organisation’s in-depth knowledge of the issues leaky home owners face and its experience in resolving these issues means they will be on-hand to work in partnership with the professionals you engage, answer all your questions and keep things on track and moving to a successful and cost effective conclusion.

The proven choice in pre-cladding Marshall Innovations provides a proven pre-cladding solution with the Tekton Weatherization System.

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The system is complimented with TradeSeals which provide a solution for through wall penetrations from 8mm to 220mm diameters.

The self-adhesive collar achieves excellent adhesion whilst the EPDM boot provides assurance of a quality seal around the pipe or conduit across a broad temperature range. A comprehensive system making product selection and installation simple.

Our range features market leading products from the USA and Europe, including Tekton and ProtectoWrap systems. All products are BRANZ appraised and are backed by expert technical advice from Marshall’s nationwide team.

We offer a personalised service, working closely with architects and councils throughout the design phase to provide systems and solutions that deliver a weather tight building envelope. During installation, technicians are able to visit sites offering advice, product education and support, ensuring systems are installed to manufacturers specification.

   

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 

All weather acrylic sheathing tape Used on all laps Prevents moisture getting beyond the wall underlay

Marshall Innovations (07) 543 0948 www.mwnz.com www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 73

Frame & Truss Manufacturers' Association

FTMA conference addresses key issues The success of the Frame & Truss Manufacturers’ Conference in Rotorua in September 2018 stands the organisation in good stead for future conferences, says FTMA chairman Mike van der Hoek.

“We can now build on what we learnt at this inaugural conference for the 2020 conference. We can continue to grow to make next year’s conference an even greater success.”

important thing is to make the building process go faster.

He says they had some outstanding speakers at the conference. Among the many speakers who stood out and provided valuable information for the delegates were Paul Bull of Signature Homes talking on ‘What Does the Builder Really Want?’, Craig Carlyle of the Maintenance Engineering Society of New Zealand on ‘Health and Safety Made Simple’, and Sir John Kirwan with his wrap-up.

• Consistent and transparent pricing to handle client-driven changes to design – something that Paul says is significant for the builder

The conference also had a number of excellent trade stalls showcasing new technological developments, and provided a great opportunity to network with other members and people in the industry.

• Material standardisation and surety

What does the builder really want?

• Accuracy, quality and consistency

Paul Bull of Signature Homes presented an entertaining talk from a builder’s point of view on what they need when dealing with services such as frame and truss providers.

• Recognising that builders want a relationship – ‘people buy off people they like’

Sir Peter Blake once said, “We don’t want you to do anything unless it helps make the boat go faster” and Paul argued that this is the case for builders, too – the

Paul said that areas in which FTMA members can help in the building process include:

• Realising the product differentiation opportunities for FTMA members, which could even drive consumer demand for FTMA products

• Standardisation of inclusions (margin mitigation) • Direct relationships with detailers

• Lots of communication with no assumptions • Structural engineering solutions • Design & plan reviews

The winning team from the entertainment evening, from left to right: FTMA Chairman Mike van der Hoek (Thomsons ITM), Ed Serrano (Vekta Automation), Laurie Smith (PlaceMakers Frame & Truss), Lance Harvey (Paraparaumu Prenail), Danielle Moa (Far North ITM), Hamish Duckett (Carters Napier) and Darina Gassanova (Vekta Automation).

• When it turns to custard – prompt remedials • Componentry / Fabrication solutions • Compelling monetised solutions so it’s easy to ‘sell’.

A more customer-focused industry Paul argued that industry service standards need to lift in general as collectively we’re not really customer-centric enough.

To address this lack of customer focus he’d like to see an NPS (Net Promoter Score) system adopted across FTMA members.

This would mean builders rating ‘XYZ’ frame and truss plant on a scale of 0–10, based on how likely they are to recommend that plant to a colleague (where 0 is not at all and 10 is highly likely).

He said a consistent service-related measure will help change the sector over time, plus NPS has a strong correlation to revenue and profitability growth tested over many other industries.

As a final note, Paul added something that he described as ‘a little left of field’ and asked the audience to consider whether there was an opportunity for FTMA members to ‘Uberise’ residential design.

Inner space Design and build more efficiently with MiTek Posi-STRUT open-web design trusses. Fully engineered Posi-STRUT combines timber and steel to create lightweight, super strong trusses for both floors and rafters that can provide larger clear spans and greater design flexibility.

Posi-STRUT allows for services to be easily installed without compromise and there are still more benefits that will enhance your new space.

Talk to your accredited MiTek fabricator.

miteknz.co.nz 74 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Frame & Truss Manufacturers' Association

Sir John Kirwan, one of the keynote speakers

Paul Bull from Signature Homes

The points he wanted industry members to think about included:

Craig argued that problems that plague health and safety include:

• Provision of a design service

• Health and safety suffers from bad PR

• Participation in the builder’s sales process

• Downwardly driven health and safety management continues to prove ineffective after 36 years.

• Control of concepts, consenting and engineering • Standardisation of material usage • Improved overall standards and quality • Waste reduction.

Health and safety made simple Health and safety problems continue to plague the building industry. Changes since the Pike River Mine disaster were meant to improve New Zealand’s health and safety record, but accident rates continue to rise.

Craig Carlyle, of the Maintenance Engineering Society of New Zealand, argued in his talk ‘Health and Safety Made Simple’ that instead of making workplaces safer we’ve created a ‘Fluoro Generation’, with every man and his dog wearing fluoro gear.

This has led to a situation where people feel safe because they’re wearing fluoro, but it is not the case.

He argued that when it comes to H&S the hardest nut to crack is changing workers’ culture, and time and effort is wasted in this area that could be better spent in other ways.

He said that because peer pressure is the single most effective driver of change it should be utilised in health and safety.

The focus should be on keeping your mates safe on a building site. Health and safety then becomes something that is endorsed by the people on the site, rather than something imposed from above.

He suggested: • Involve your staff in keeping themselves and their workmates alive • Get your staff to design the controls and the ongoing management • Remember, peer pressure is the No.1 change agent • Become the resource base to allow staff to keep themselves safe.

Frame & Truss Manufacturers’ Association 1/26 Pleasant Road Glen Eden 0274 956 182 admin@ftma.co.nz

www.ftma.co.nz

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Issue #115 - B&C | 75

EH Ball ITM

The ITM advantage EH Ball ITM has the most comprehensive joinery, frame-and-truss and building product range in all of Southland, making it the go-to company for anyone in the building trade.

Products and services EH Ball ITM offers a wide range of building materials, hardware and timber, including: Timber • Prenailed frames and trusses • Framing timber • Foundation piles • Joists and rafters

EH Ball is a building supplies specialist that is focused on providing the best products, the right advice and sharp pricing to the Invercargill community.

• Boards and fascia • Panelling and mouldings

The company stocks an extensive range of products to suit all building material, timber and hardware requirements.

EH Ball ITM in Invercargill delivers frames and trusses, along with building suppliers, throughout Southland and Central Otago.

• Fence components • Roundwood and poles

Owner Warwick Ball says EH Ball ITM is the only merchant in Southland operating a joinery factory, frame-and-truss factory and building supply outlet under a single private company ownership.

• Engineered wood products.

Building materials • Concrete, cement and masonry

“It means from the foundation right through to the roof and just about everything in between, we can supply,” he says. “However, we don’t do kitchen joinery or aluminium windows because some of our biggest clients are joiners.”

• Doors and mouldings • Exterior claddings • Flooring • GIB Plasterboard and accessories

EH Ball ITM is a frame-and-truss specialist, manufacturing precisionfabricated precut/prenailed frame and roof trusses, as well as posi-struts, longreach floor trusses and flitch beam lintels.

• Insulation • MDF panels • Particleboard • Reinforcing steel

The company can save a huge amount of time on site, ensuring clients can build quality homes faster and more cost effectively than traditional on-site building methods.

• Roofing • Wet wall linings Prenailed trusses by EH Ball ITM arriving on site.

• Rural and landscape supplies

The ITM advantage

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164 Taurikura Drive, Tauriko, Tauranga 3171 76 | B&C - Issue #115

• Decking and landscape timber

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

ITM is New Zealand’s largest group of independent timber, hardware and building supply merchants.

“ITM started in 1991 and we joined a year later. Being part of ITM means we benefit from their marketing programmes, buying power and being part of a group that offers knowledge and support, which I think a lot of people underestimate,” Warwick says.

As its membership has grown, ITM’s negotiating and buying power means the group is now firmly established as the one merchant that provides competitive prices on a full range of products and materials.

The group is also focused on providing consistency and quality, service and integrity throughout its network.

• Garage doors • Velux windows • Rainwater solutions.

Hardware • Adhesives and sealants • Fixings and fastenings • Locks and security equipment • Hand and power tools • Paint and accessories • Electrical supplies • Kitchen, bathroom and laundry components and fittings.

Supporting the frame and truss industry with world leading machinery solutions

EH Ball ITM

"

Being part of ITM means we benefit from their marketing programmes, buying power and being part of a group that offers knowledge and support, which I think a lot of people underestimate.

- EH Ball ITM owner Warwick Ball

"

EH Ball ITM has been servicing the Southland community since 1930 and possesses a comprehensive product range and knowledge.

The company was established by Ernest Harry Ball, who opened the first store in Esk Street. It was later taken over by Ernie’s son Derek Ball and relocated to various sites around the city, before Derek’s son Warwick Ball took control of the business in the mid-‘90s.

Today EH Ball ITM is located at a large site in Eye Street, where its joinery factory and building supply store are located. The frame-

and-truss factory is located on the corner of Bond and Bute streets.

“I started working in the business in 1980 and started managing it in about 1995,” Warwick says.

“Today we employ about 38 staff and are open five and-a-half days a week. Our customers are mainly in trade and we have our own truck fleet for deliveries. We go right up into Central Otago with frame and truss deliveries and we go all over Southland with our building supplies.”

Warwick says one of the major advantages in dealing with EH Ball ITM is the longevity of his staff.

“We believe we have got the longest-serving staff in the Southland industry,” he says.

“We have a product knowledge that is second to none and I think we’ve got a reputation for that. Clients come to us when they have a problem.”

EH Ball ITM is the perfect choice for prenailed frames and trusses on your next building project.

EH Ball ITM is currently experiencing strong growth and is exceeding its budget every month. October and November were its busiest ever months.

“Southland is just coming into its own economically and things are looking very positive for us this year,” says Warwick.

“The biggest problem we have got is trying to find good staff, as Southland has pretty low unemployment.”

EH Ball ITM

8 Eye Street Invercargill (03) 218 3787 sales@ehball.co.nz www.itm.co.nz/ehball

EH Ball ITM in Eye Street, Invercargill.

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Issue #115 - B&C | 77

Vekta Automation

Customer Service - Expectations versus Reality Today, technology is in all parts of our everyday world. For better or worse, that also means customer service and technical support are embedded into our lives.

Some companies excel, others are just frustrating - you’re put on hold or constantly transferred; the telecom industry is notorious for this.

Everyone has experienced the technician who didn’t show or has turned up late and has no idea what they are doing.

A repercussion of the advancement of automated machinery in the frame and truss industry is the need for customer support and technical service.

No matter the supplier you choose, it is inevitable there will come a time when you need help!

So what defines ‘good’ customer service for a CNC machine in the frame and truss industry?

How would you describe ‘good’ technical support?

Are expectations too high, too low? What exactly should you expect?

Paul Donnell, the Production Manager from Bunnings Hallam, clearly defines the industry wide expectation.

“We expect as little down time as possible, as when the saw stops, the whole floor stops.”

reason we actually want someone to supervise how we do things and provide feedback/input on further improving how we operate.”

Bradley Thomas from Direct Timber shared this perspective; “Service is about always being in solution mode”.

Mark Pagram from JH Williams, has similar opinions regarding communication and experience.

“Technicians should be an expert on the machinery they are supporting. They should also be polite, accommodating and a good communicator.”

He goes onto further comment, “Good customer service is prompt, appropriately priced and backed up with a full understanding and explanation of what's actually being offered.

“It is important to have accessibility to expert advice, prompt dispatching of spares and consumables and ensuring

"

When Vekta started in 2009, we recognised the lack of adequate customer service and support standards in our industry and decided to focus on putting the customer first.

"

To achieve this outcome, he believes it is particularly important to “Talk through issues over the phone and have a local tech”.

Alistair Green from AAA agrees, saying “Response times are very important”.

Bradley Thomas, the Production Manager at Direct Timber and Trusses emphasises the importance of the relationship between customer and service technicians.

“We appreciate any suggested solutions like online help options or anything else we can do until (a technician) is online... A considered and calm approach, gives confidence that it will be sorted.

“You don't want to hear someone panicking on the other side of the line. We expect honesty, tell us when someone will be able to contact us back. Also training staff, little tips along the way. It is one of those things; we hope to never call you but when we do we need to get solutions.”

Kirt Dobin from the Truss Joint focused on the knowledge of the technicians providing the support. “Having knowledgeable techs, all of the guys knowing the product inside out.

“Quick response times and when one of the techs doesn't know the answer, they discuss in a group and come back to us quickly.”

that existing customers are not ‘prioritised’ below new or prospective customers.

“It can even be as simple as actively informing customers of new products or how they can use existing products better,” Mark says.

The Vekta approach When Vekta started in 2009, we recognised the lack of adequate customer service and support standards in our industry and decided to focus on putting the customer first.

By seeking constant feedback from our customers, and focusing on continuous improvements over the years in this area, Vekta has become a leader not only in the quality and performance of our products, but more importantly, in the service and support we provide our customers.

So what defines good customer service and support for automated equipment?

He also highlights the importance of having a good relationship with the supplying company,

Vekta’s approach starts with highly trained, qualified Mechatronic (Robotical) Engineers providing the support.

Support engineers located in Perth, Melbourne, Auckland and in the USA.

“When (technicians) are here they give advice on how we can be doing things better/utilising the saw better. This is the

An extensive inventory of spare parts in all support offices available for immediate despatch.

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Access to support engineers in time zones around the world that can provide virtually around the clock support as needed.

An organised, transparent and efficient support issue tracking systems.

Solid internal communication between support Engineers to facilitate a broad knowledge base.

And, ultimately, a company that has the values and mindset to ensure the customer's individual needs and circumstances are thoughtfully considered and the highest priority.

Suppliers to the Frame and Truss industry should excel at customer service - the industry should not accept anything less.

Why not discover for yourself the benefits and reassurances of strong support - Make Vekta your first point of comparison; we are confident in the support and service we provide!

VEKTA

+61 8 6117 0660 vekta.com.au

Vekta Automation

20

09

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Your machine, your plant, your expectations for support and service MET!

19

WE’RE GROWING OUR TEAM TO SUPPORT YOU Vekta welcomes Nick Tisdall – New Zealand Support Engineer To compliment the amazing service and support provided by JCL Contractors, Vekta is excited to introduce Nick Tisdall. Nick has a bachelor of Engineering with honours in Mechatronics and the perfect combination of being mechanically minded, experience servicing many different types of machines, workshop skills including welding, turning and CNC milling plus a passion for programming.

With Vekta support, your machine always comes first!

Vekta can guarantee – • Support from qualified Mechatronic (Robotical) Engineers who have extensive hands-on training in our Perth manufacturing facility.

They know everything about the Vekta Razer and equipment – from the location of each bolt and sensor to the software code.

• A growing support network of engineers with locations including Auckland, Perth, Melbourne and the USA – providing you around the clock support as needed.

• An extensive inventory of spare parts in Auckland available for IMMEDIATE despatch.

• Organised, transparent and efficient support issue tracking systems – log your issue and follow all updates in real time.

• The information you need about your Vekta Razer; whenever you need it and at your fingertips, with our ever-expanding, online help system, Vekta Rescue.

• Ultimately; a company that positions the customer as the highest priority.

vekta.com.au

09

20

20

19

WHY NOT DISCOVER FOR YOURSELF THE BENEFITS AND REASSURANCES OF STRONG SUPPORT – MAKE VEKTA YOUR FIRST POINT OF COMPARISON; WE ARE CONFIDENT IN THE SUPPORT AND SERVICE WE PROVIDE!

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 79

AWCI

Representing the interests of building professionals Members of the building sector are increasingly seeing the benefits of belonging to the Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries New Zealand, which is focused on helping businesses grow.

AWCI NZ is a trade association which represents the interests of building professionals and organisations operating in the wall and ceiling industries.

Its members include contractors, tradespeople, manufacturers and suppliers in the drywall, fibrous plaster, proprietary partitions, tiling, suspended ceilings and fibre-cement linings industries within New Zealand.

New benefits for AWCI members Executive officer Richard Arkinstall says the organisation has experienced strong membership growth during the past couple of years, with almost 400 businesses now involved.

“We have worked really hard on developing new benefits for our members,” he says.

“We have a new smart phone app, new medical insurance packages, technical helplines and assistance. We also improved our profile with new logos, a new strategic plan, new positioning statement and a new Facebook page.”

Richard says a major benefit of membership for building professionals and organisations is the recognition of their skills.

“Most people want to be recognised as part of an industry association. Everything we do is backed by our senior partners, which include GIB, Rondo, USG Boral, Forman

Delegates mingle at last year’s AWCI NZ national conference.

Building Systems and James Hardie. All of those big partners stand behind our members.”

AWCI NZ members receive the association’s magazine, insight, and newsletters and are kept up to date with legislative changes and business development information.

“We are strongly focused on helping our members develop their businesses,” says Richard.

“Our new smart phone app has information which is right there available to them.

The app allows them to see the additional benefits available to them, which is resulting in more interest from potential members.

"

We also keep a close eye on what’s happening in the construction industry, following the collapse of large companies like Ebert Construction.

- AWCI executive officer Richard Arkinstall

"

“We have health and safety information and we’ve just developed two new codes of practice. We help with payments and disputes, mediation information and have a national conference each year which is combined with the New Zealand Certified Builders, so it’s a great conference.”

National conference The combined annual AWCI and NZ Certified Builders conference will be held in June in Christchurch.

The combined conference event will feature dedicated AWCI speakers and content presentations, plus a huge 70 trade stand expo, more than 600 attendees and full access to the NZCB speakers and business content.

AWCI members will once again benefit from two conferences in the one venue.

Conference delegates will be able to: • Receive up to 12 skills maintenance points for attending • Up to 70 trade stands at the Expo • Welcome mingling and networking function on the Friday night • Lots of educational workshops with specific AWCI content and presentations • All delegates can attend any workshop or speaker they want to • Aa separate AWCI gala dinner with Annual Awards of Excellence and GIB workskills presentations • Access to significant keynote speakers which will help develop and grow their business.

A unique ceiling entry in the Annual Awards of Excellence competition 2018.

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AWCI

AWCI

700-1000 WORK-RELATED DISEASE FATALITIES EACH YEAR IN NEW ZEALAND

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While these are great ways to help keep you safe from immediate hazards, there’s one worksite safety issue that far too many tradies in New Zealand overlook — dust inhalation. The inhalation of tiny dust particles can cause severe damage to your respiratory system and potentially COPD — an incurable disease. Generally the finer the dust, greater the risk.

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www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 81

AWCI

"

We have a new smart phone app, new medical insurance packages, technical helplines and assistance.

We also improved our profile with new logos, a new strategic plan, new positioning statement and a new Facebook page.

"

- AWCI executive officer Richard Arkinstall

The Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries New Zealand is looking toward a positive future under the leadership of progressive new president Gabriel Ataya.

“We also keep a close eye on what’s happening in the construction industry, following the collapse of large companies like Ebert Construction.

Richard Arkinstall says Gabriel is an experienced contractor, based in Auckland, and has been in the wall and ceiling industry a long time.

“The retention of our subcontractors is an issue. We want to ensure our members are delivering a quality job, although everyone is looking for the cheapest price and the two are usually opposed in that sense. However, our members are currently really busy and plenty of work on at the present time.”

“He’s quite a progressive guy and is focused on helping the industry and members grow their businesses.”

AWCI has a number of different types of membership available, including for certified individual tradesmen, individual trainees, certified businesses, corporates and associate members.

Richard says the organisation counts some of the country’s largest and most influential construction organisations as members, with an increasing number of corporates signing up.

Members receive support across many issues, including the shortage of good staff in the industry.

“Finding good, hard-working staff is an ongoing issue in the industry,” he says.

Interior Systems National Certificate The AWCI NZ encourages professionalism and training within the industry and its members’ businesses through the achievements of an Interior Systems National Certificate, which is completed through the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO).

You can be qualified in plaster board or fibre cement linings fixing and/or finishing, fibrous plaster manufacture or installation, and suspended ceilings or interior partitions installation.

Members and their staff can achieve the certificate through competency-based training for apprentices, designed for someone entering the trade for the first time.

existing trade groups of suspended ceilings, plasterboard and fibrous plaster.

The name of the association was changed in November 2005.

There is also a subsidised, experiencerecognition process (ERP) for those already working in the industry and trade professional. To qualify through the ERP process, you are required to provide evidence of your work and undergo an accelerated assessment process.

The association was established to represent the interests of members and their customers for interior wall and ceiling lining systems and related products.

It includes contractors, tradesmen, manufacturers and suppliers.

Anyone qualified in an interior systems trade may choose from a range of career paths, including specialising in residential or commercial construction, working for a large construction company or running their own business.

Codes of practice The AWCI NZ has recently developed codes of practice for suspended ceilings and walls, which involve: Seismic compliance of suspended ceilings: In conjunction with BRANZ, AWCI NZ has developed a code of practice for the design, installation and seismic restraint of suspended ceilings.

AWCI NZ is the New Zealand representative of the Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries of Australia and New Zealand.

In May 2002 the association introduced new membership classes to provide for registration of trade-qualified and suitably experienced trade businessmen operating in interiors.

AWCI certified business members either employ trade-qualified staff or possess the trade skills to perform and adhere to strict guidelines for achieving acceptable standards in both workmanship and business practices.

Members can enter their work full recognition and the association’ s Annual Awards of Excellence competition.

Seismic restraint of internal partitions and walls: In conjunction with MBIE and BRANZ, AWCI has developed a code of practice for the seismic restraint of internal walls and partitions..

Both codes of practice can be downloaded at https://awci.org.nz/suspended-ceilings/.

AWCI NZ T 0800 AWCINZ (292 469) admin@awcinz.org.nz www.awcinz.org.nz

About AWCI NZ The AWCI NZ was formed in 1992 as the Interior Systems Association incorporating

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Issue #115 - B&C | 83

Focus on Christchurch & Canterbury

Christchurch CBD rejuvenation requires collaboration Responding to the Christchurch City Council’s proposal to launch a new programme called Project 8011 to unlock residential development in the Christchurch CBD, the Property Council New Zealand’s South Island branch president, Roger Davidson, says the city’s CBD rejuvenation requires joint effort.

“We support the Council’s intention to accelerate residential growth in the central city. We’re glad they’re looking to launch a specific program to tackle the lack of development in the CBD since the earthquakes, because a focussed approach is necessary to get things moving,” Roger says.

He says the Property Council has been concerned about the lack of residential development in the Christchurch CBD for some time.

“The Property Council’s South Island Branch Executive commissioned an independent piece of research to review the future of the Christchurch Central residential property market, in order to find out which factors have been stopping residential development since the earthquakes, and to what can be done to get things moving again.

“Our research suggests some key areas need to be addressed before we will see successful residential development in the central city.

“We hope the council are committed to the things that will really make the CBD an attractive place to live.

“We look forward to continuing to engage with Council on this issue. Councils and the property industry need to work together to make this a reality.”

Christchurch rejuvenation continues A thriving hospitality scene, brand new retail precincts and booming hotel sector are proving a hit with visitors to Christchurch.

ChristchurchNZ chief executive Joanna Norris says the region is enjoying the spotlight.

“It’s great to see visitors and travel trade increasingly including Christchurch in

their itineraries, staying for longer and experiencing the wider region.”

The city’s hotel sector is booming with two new hotels – Crowne Plaza Christchurch and Distinction Christchurch Hotel – opening their doors in the past 12 months, adding 384 new rooms to the city’s accommodation portfolio.

Other highlights include: • Christchurch’s brand new $140 million hospitality complex The Terrace is now open with vibrant new bars and restaurants while the city’s biggest retail development, The Crossing, is also open for business • State Highway 1 to Kaikōura has re-opened 24/7 allowing visitors to enjoy some of the best whale and dolphin watching experiences in New Zealand

complex opening in the CBD, Christchurch Convention Centre construction under way and an impressive central-city farmers’ market complex in the pipeline.

And with recent confirmation from central government that Christchurch is to receive a Multi-Purpose Arena and Metro Sports Facility, “our city is also set to regain its status as the events capital of the South Island,” she says.

March figures show Christchurch received $305 million in tourism spend – the nation’s second-highest share behind Auckland and 11 percent of national spend.

• The region’s Alpine Pacific Touring Route has a new website encouraging visitors to explore the wider North Canterbury region.

ChristchurchNZ was established in July 2017 to bring together Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism (CCT) the city’s Convention Bureau, Canterbury Economic Development Corporation (CDC), International Education and the Christchurch City Council’s Major Events team.

Joanna says there’s plenty more to look forward to as well, with an amazing new central library on the way, a Hoyts cinema

For more information call (03) 379 5575, email enquiries@christchurchnz.com, or visit www.cdc.org.nz.

True craftsmen using true timber Few would be as good with wood as Christchurch-based timber experts Timber Tru, who are prepared to turn their hand to almost anything in timber.

Timber Tru has made its name making quality timber joinery since 1997. Its reputation strengthened further when drawing on its experience to help clients

through the post-earthquakes period in Canterbury.

With this came great development of commissioned services and today you’d be hard pressed to request a job they can’t undertake.

The dedicated team of craftsmen have a combined 50+ years’ experience and the ability to produce a wide range of joinery for residential and commercial applications, from windows and doors to complete kitchens and bespoke joinery for historical homes, schools, offices and more.

Kitchens

Windows and doors

Whether modernising your existing set up or creating a new design from scratch, Timber Tru will work off your ideas or architectural plans with equal success.

The team is experienced with windows and doors and offers a same-day service for replacement window sashes.

Wardrobes and storage

As Registered Master Joiners all work is guaranteed, providing complete peace of mind to clients.

Specialists in smart storage solutions, Timber Tru can custom design and manufacture to match an existing look and feel, or work with you to create a brand new vision.

Call Timber Tru for a free consult or better yet, visit them at their conveniently located office and showroom on Ferry Road, where they will help you visualise your dream space before they get creating.

Call Us First!

Timber Tru are kitchen & wooden joinery specialists.

We listen to your needs so you get the finish you want.

Are you building a new house or looking to update your kitchen, bathroom or windows.

New and Renovations Kitchens | Windows Doors | Wardrobes

84 | B&C - Issue #115

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374 Ferry Road, Christchurch Ph: 03 389 2986 E: admin@timbertru.co.nz www.timbertru.co.nz

Focus on Christchurch & Canterbury

Canterbury’s brilliant builds The 2018 Canterbury Architecture Awards have again showcased a range of stunning designs.

Run by the New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA), the awards set a benchmark for the country’s buildings and recognises the contribution of architects to their towns and communities.

Canterbury architects have a wellestablished reputation for designing high-quality and inventive housing, and the tradition continued this year, with nine awards for residential projects. Here’s a taste of some of the winning projects.

Continued page 88 >

Endberg House Enberg House, designed by Mitchell Stout Dodd Architects, is described as “simple yet sophisticated”. The house, one of the final works by David Mitchell who passed away in April this year, is “an expression of a higher level of architectural achievement,” the jury said.

Black Rock House This Sheppard and Rout Architects’ designed home has a “bunker-like appearance evocative of the old gun emplacements located around the harbour,” the jury said. “On entering however, the feel of the house is completely different. It has expansive views of the harbour and a sense of lightness and airiness.”

Photo by Jason Mann.

Photo by Lucas K Doolan.

Misco Joinery Misco Joinery is a celebrated name when it comes to the design and manufacture of kitchens, laundries, wardrobes and study areas for residences within Canterbury and the West Coast.

Now, thanks to their new state of the art factory and after much demand they are proud to offer their services to the commercial market.

“Having moved into our new factory we have been amazed by the number of commercial projects we have been asked to tender for and how many commercial builders and

architects have looked around our facilities,” says director Michael Chernishoff.

The transition into commercial territory has been a seamless one and Misco’s high level of expertise is standout in the unique commercial projects they’ve been involved in so far: kindergartens they have designed and installed, and joinery they have supplied and fitted for rest homes.

Just as is the case for their residential customers, the commercial process is undertaken with the utmost professionalism, expertise and open communication throughout to ensure an end product that exceeds expectations.

The factory has been set up with CNC machinery and seamless laser edging to

TURN YOUR DREAM KITCHEN INTO A REALITY At Misco Joinery our team will take your kitchen from concept stage to completion, making designing and building your new kitchen an easy and enjoyable process.

cater easily for commercial projects, and they are poised and ready to make as much of a mark in the commercial market as they have, and continue to do, within the residential market.

Contact Misco Joinery today to discuss all your residential or commercial joinery needs.

www.misco.co.nz 62 Williams Street, Kaiapoi 7630, New Zealand P: 03 383 4384 E: quotes@misco.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 85

Focus on Christchurch & Canterbury

Rhodes House Christchurch practice PRau received two awards. One was for Rhodes House, a project described by the architect as a “Cabinet of curiosities”. “The devil may be in the details, but in this case the detailing has enabled the basics to work,” the jury said.

Ellis House This earthquake rebuild in Fendalton is another award-winning Sheppard and Rout creation. “A light, airy, contemporary form replaces a Georgian-style brick home, while meeting the mandatory requirement to maintain a similar size and footprint,” the jury said.

Photo by Hazel Redmond.

Mt Pleasant House Borrmeister Architects’ Mt Pleasant House was described as “A confident rebuild that squeezes the potential from a tricky hillside corner site. It is a confident rebuild that squeezes the potential from a tricky hillside corner site.”

Photo by Jamie Armstrong.

Photo by Dennis Radermacher.

Rockgas North Canterbury Rockgas North Canterbury is your main point of call for Contact Rockgas LPG in the North Canterbury community.

Our passionate, committed and reliable team consistently provide service of the highest quality to our valued customers throughout the region. For over a decade we have supplied North Canterbury with our wide variety of products and services. From the home to the commercial workplace, Rockgas North Canterbury has you covered when it comes to LPG. Whether it’s a small

gas bottle refill, or an army of forklifts, we have the LPG for you.

We have a vastly experienced and qualified team to assist you with any LPG supply needs that you may have. Our drivers/fillers share more than 36 years of LPG delivery and filling experience between them We deliver Rockgas LPG from North of the Waimak River to as far as Darfield, Cust, Springfield and Oxford to the West and Waiau, Culverden, Hawarden and Cheviot to the North. All regions have weekly delivery schedules.

This includes Amberley, Woodend, Ahsley, Loburn, Sefton, Ohoka. Rangiora and Kaiapoi

receive deliveries twice weekly. Contact Rockgas North Canterbury is the only dedicated LPG cylinder filling depot in the region.

From small camping cylinders to large 45kg house cylinders, you can find it or refill it at Contact Rockgas LPG North Canterbury.

Our operating hours are 8:00am – 5:pm on weekdays, and 9:00am – 12:00pm on Saturday. Feel free to call us at any time during these hours on 0800 433 4LPG (0800 433 4574). A member of our friendly service team will be there to ensure your LPG requirements are fulfilled.

Call or visit us for all your LPG Delivery needs

Rockgas North Canterbury

Tel: 327 4812, 61 Williams Street, Kaiapoi

www.rockgasnorthcanterbury.co.nz 86 | B&C - Issue #115

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Order online If you need a LPG refill for your home or business, you can take advantage of our dependable delivery service. Place an online order here to replace a LPG cylinder and you will receive it on the closest upcoming delivery day for your area or download the Contact LPG App. When it comes to local LPG and industrial gas delivery and supply, Rockgas North Canterbury has you covered.

Feel free to drop in to our depot or call on 0800 433 4 LPG (0800 433 4574) to talk to our friendly staff.

Focus on Christchurch & Canterbury

Engineering solutions you can count on When it comes to precision engineering work, accuracy is all important.

And this is exactly what the team at Innes Engineering deliver – quality workmanship that is made to measure.

Innes Engineering provides a wide range of structural engineering solutions for clients in the Christchurch region.

These solutions are tailored exactly according to client specifications so that they are a perfect fit for the intended purpose.

Innes Engineering also specialises in manufacturing trailers which are custom built to suit each and every client’s needs.

Innes services the areas of: Cheviot, Christchurch, Ashburton, Amberley, Rangiora, Kaikoura and Darfield.

As a precision engineering firm, they have a factory that is well-equipped to handle a variety of work.

Innes Engineering’s services include: • Modifications

The company believes its success depends not on who calls them, but on who keeps coming back, because repeat business tells the team they are doing something right the first time round, and they are well-aware their good reputation is built on the quality of products they produce for a variety of clients.

• Custom designing • Inspections • Framing

• Design

• Construction • Installation • Damage assessments • Fabrication • Remodelling

• Repairs • Coating

• Customising

• Consulting

• Custom work

• Modelling.

• Fitting

• Restoration

Innes Engineering Ltd 5a Holt Pl Harewood Christchurch (03) 357 0023 innesengltd@hotmail.co.nz

INNES ENGINEERING TRAILER MANUFACTURERS CUSTOM BUILT TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS Boat | Tandem | Rubbish | Shuttle

CH 357 0023

innesengltd@hotmail.co.nz

5A Holt Place Harewood, Christchurch Near Airport

Inline Plumbing Keeping your property up to scratch requires outside assistance from time to time.

Just as the name suggests, Inline Plumbing will keep your plumbing in line.

The Site Safe accredited, registered Master Plumbers made their name providing professional plumbing services to the Canterbury region post-2008, and solidified

their reputation acting as a saving grace during and after the earthquakes.

Well known today for their working partnership completing the plumbing and gas fitting in new builds for Compass Homes, Inline can also undertake plumbing repairs, bathroom renovations, insurance work, servicing, maintenance, and roofing repairs to the highest of professional standards.

Inline employs its own building, electrical, plumbing and gas fitting staff and offers a full floor to ceiling bathroom, laundry

and kitchen renovation service with a fast turnaround. Furthermore, Johnny and his team can project manage and co-ordinate every aspect of each job.

clients have complete peace of mind that, no matter what and no matter the time, their plumbing problems will all work out fine.

In the fashion of leading by example, Inline’s growing team of qualified tradesmen uphold the company’s vision to adjust the oftennegative perception surrounding plumbers to that of plumbers providing a consistently positive and professional experience.

Inline Plumbing PO Box 7644 Sydenham Christchurch (03) 377 5806 0508 4 INLINE admin@inlineplumbing.co.nz www.inlineplumbing.co.nz

Couple this with a 24/7 emergency service and seven-point satisfaction guarantee, and

PROUD TO SUPPORT COMPASS HOMES 39b Sandyford Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8240 admin@inlineplumbing.co.nz www.inlineplumbing.co.nz phone: 03 377 5806

• Electrical • Plumbing • Complete Renovations • Gasfitting • Drainlaying www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 87

Focus on Christchurch & Canterbury

First year of Te Pae construction completed One year on from the first concrete being poured for Te Pae, Christchurch’s new convention and exhibition centre is taking shape.

“Since the first wave of concrete trucks arrived on site on 4 November, around 15,000 cubic metres of concrete has been poured and 1,450 tonnes of structural steel installed,” says Ōtākaro Limited chief executive, John Bridgman.

“The foundations for the exhibition hall are now complete and the walls are starting to go up, giving a sense of what a great space it will be for local events like boat shows and wedding expos.

Work to install the roof of the 1,400-seat auditorium will be completed in early 2019, which will allow the internal fit-out to begin.

CPB currently has around 75 people working on site and this will increase to over 400 at the height of construction.

Interest in holding conferences and exhibitions at Te Pae has been strong and we encourage anyone looking for a worldclass events venue from late 2020 onwards to get in touch.

story of the Southern Alps in New Zealand’s South Island. The 429,000 individual panels that make up the façade will resemble the colours and curves of Canterbury’s iconic braided rivers that flow down from the mountains.”

and international events. It will include a 1400-delegate auditorium, a 200-booth exhibition hall, banquet hall and 24 meeting rooms overlooking the picturesque Victoria Square and Ōtākaro/ Avon River.

“The exterior design of Te Pae has been derived from the Ngāi Tahu creation

Te Pae will be capable of hosting up to 2000 delegates for a variety of national

Several prestigious events have been confirmed for 2021, including the fiveday Federation of Asian and Oceanian

Biochemists and Molecular Biologists (FAOBMB) conference, the first time New Zealand has hosted this triennial event for 900 leading biochemists.

The same year the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) International Biology Symposium will bring 350 of the world’s top Antarctic scientists to Christchurch.

THE FIRST CHOICE FOR HEATING AND ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS SOLUTIONS FOR Solar PV Heat Pumps Ventilation Electrical Service & Maintenance 88 | B&C - Issue #115

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Focus on Christchurch & Canterbury

South Canterbury’s roofing specialists Len Seed Roofing are a talented team of qualified roofers and licenced building practitioners with a solid, honest and reliable reputation.

As an installer for Dan Cosgrove 2014, you know your roofing products will be of the highest standard.

The team at Len Seed can provide expertise and advice to find the best roofing solutions to fit within your budget.

• Roof inspections

Len Seed offer a range of products and services to meet all needs such as roofing; new roofs and replacement roofs, roofing repairs and external cladding.

They provide specialised products and services within the South Canterbury region of New Zealand. Len Seed has qualifications in metal roofing and external cladding.

• New builds.

Their range of expertise encompasses roofing, gutter and spouting, and external cladding – and in every area they will deliver quality service and workmanship.

“Our experienced South Canterbury based team of roofing experts can help you with all your roofing needs: New roofs, replacement roofing, external cladding, roof repairs, and maintenance.”

Whether it is a re-roof, new roof, roof repair or external cladding, no job is too big for the highly experienced team at Len Seed.

This combination of expert advice and a highly qualified team means you can rest assured your roofing decisions will be made with ease with the team at Len Seed Roofing.

Len Seed Roofing also installs Butynol and are Ardex approved installers — Ardex being the supplier of the Butynol Len Seed Roofing uses.

Len Seed Roofing services include:

• Standing steam • External cladding With expert advice, and a highly qualified team using quality products, you can rest assured your roofing work will be delivered efficiently, and to the highest of standards.

Len Seed services the area of Timaru, Oamaru, Geraldine, Temuka, Fairlie, Kensington and Washdyke.

So for all your roofing solutions, contact the Len Seed team today.

• New roofing • Re-roofing • Commercial roofing

0800 102 057 www.lenseedroofing.nz

• Roof repairs and maintenance

Available for all your roofing & metal wall cladding requirements Daniel Hay PO Box 391, Timaru | Mobile: 027 555 3551 | Email: roofingdan@xtra.co.nz

HEALTHY DRY VENTILATION Heat Recovery Solutions For Your Home The most energy efficient way to ventilate your home Heat Recovery Ventilation ensures a home is: • • • •

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379-3589

www.snowtemp.co.nz

196 Wordsworth Street, Christchurch

Heat Pump Installation / Repairs • Refrigeration Design, Build, Repairs www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 89

Focus on Christchurch & Canterbury

Malls, convention centres drive commercial building consents Building consents for big commercial buildings, including shopping malls and convention centres, increased strongly in the year ended November 2018, says Stats NZ. The value of building consents issued for shops, restaurants, and bars; social and cultural buildings; factories; and farm buildings all increased between $100 million and $300 million over the period.

“Construction costs rise each year, but even accounting for price rises, there was a significant increase in the value of shops and social buildings consented in the year ended November.”

“An increase in the intention to build more shops and social buildings was partly due to large consents for Auckland and Christchurch convention centres, and shopping malls in Auckland,” construction statistics manager Melissa McKenzie says.

Non-residential consents issued exceeded $7 billion for the first time on record in the year ended November 2018.

The value of offices and public transport buildings consented for the year had the largest fall, down $351 million from the November 2017 year.

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If you just wing each interview, the direction, tone and outcome of each conversation can vary wildly, making it more difficult to compare candidates to each other. The outcome of this can be that, despite spending all that time interviewing people, to a certain extent, you’re still none the wiser.

Then, the chances are, when it comes to deciding who to hire, you’re going to go with your gut, as you won’t reliably be able to compare one answer to another because you didn’t ask each candidate a few standard questions you can compare them by.

So, a little planning can go a long way towards helping you make an informed and considered choice of who to hire, as opposed to just sitting down with each individuals, having a completely random chat, and then hoping you get it right.

Mistake 2

- Overvaluing experience

It is risky to bet too heavily on how much experience a person has, when there are so many factors that determine whether someone will be successful in the role and a good fit for your organisation.

An applicant’s skills, knowledge, aptitude and personality all factor into the equation.

Because experience is a tangible and measurable component, it is very easy to overvalue it above less easily measurable factors such as intelligence, drive, and other components of raw talent.

Experience accumulates with time in the role and skills can be learned and acquired.

Hiring new employees is not an easy process.

You’ve got to wade through a mountain of applications, weed out the few you’re interested in and then interview all the candidates – all while still running your company.

But if you want your company to grow, you need to hire the right people.

You need people that are not only right for the now but can also help you move the business towards bigger and better things in the future.

This is especially so for smaller businesses and startups because they have fewer employees and a limited income with which to work.

Your next great employee might be someone with limited experience, but who has fantastic aptitude and flexibility.

Placing too much stock on a heavy list of qualifications in your job description, or only considering applicants with x amount of experience and not considering other factors, means you might be turning a blindeye to someone better suited to the role and your company’s culture.

However, this is a double-edged sword and there is a flip side.

If you’re looking to hire someone without any experience in the hope of finding someone cheaper – you might be buying into a false economy.

Ignoring a candidate with what you consider to be necessary experience in the hope of saving a few thousand dollars a year by hiring an unproven person, might not actually save you anything, due to the amount of on-the-job training and potentially decreased productivity the less experienced employee will deliver.

So, as with all aspects of running your business, you need to find a balance.

For these companies every single dollar they spend on finding and hiring an employee can affect their longer term success, meaning it’s vital that they avoid making major mistakes while hiring.

But it definitely pays to consider more than just the experience a candidate comes with.

You want someone with the potential to grow into the perfect for your company.

But the trouble is that running a small business is hard work and there often simply isn’t the time to commit to a thorough hiring process; and as result, corners get cut.

Mistake 3

The good news is that your competitors are probably making these mistakes whilst hiring as well. This means there’s an opportunity for you to seize; to waste less time and money by hiring right so you can get back to running your company.

This is a common mistake many small business owners make.

Mistake 1

- Not having an interview plan

The single biggest hiring mistake small business owners make is winging it or not having an interview plan. At best they’ll have a few questions written down on a piece of paper, but little else.

You need to treat an interview like a deductive science. You’ve sorted through all the resumes and selected the best individuals to be interviewed – but now you need a better way of evaluating their suitability for the role than just having a chat and going with your gut.

You achieve this by having an interview plan.

- Assuming the hiring process ends once they’re hired

An employee’s productivity is comprised of 50 percent ability [the reasons you hired them], and 50 percent of what happens once they’re in the workplace.

So conducting a good interview, offering that promising person the job and them saying ‘yes’ is only half the task.

Employees need to be properly induced and introduced to your company, well trained and supported.

It doesn’t matter how impressed you are with someone’s potential – poor training, insufficient access to resources, and little feedback will add up to poor job satisfaction and this will impact their performance.

So recruitment doesn’t stop at the ‘welcome aboard’ handshake – you need to make sure they are introduced, trained and supported every step of the way.

First – decide what questions are the most important, and ask them to each candidate.

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This doesn’t have to be an iron-clad, exactly repeatable process – but it does need to have some consistency to it so you can accurately assess candidates’ answers in relation to each other.

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Second – know what answers you’re looking for. Then you can assess each answer objectively and place candidates in pecking order.

CY PAC

If you would like to talk to one of our consultants about your recruitment needs, please contact us on

(03) 943 9505 | 022 648 5960 | info@nzrecruit.co.nz

www.nzrecruit.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 91

Focus on Central Otago

Infrastructure funding for Queenstown Lakes District The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Phil Twyford, confirmed $24 million of 10-year interest-free loans to Queenstown Lakes District Council to support major infrastructure projects around Ladies Mile at the entranceway to Queenstown.

This funding announcement, made last year, brings forward the development of around 1,100 houses by six years, with the first houses expected in 2020.

The infrastructure includes wastewater mains and a pump station, water supply reservoir and mains, a new roundabout on SH6, pedestrian and cycle underpass and bus stops.

The Housing Infrastructure Fund (HIF) investment is the start of a staged investment by the Queenstown Lakes District Council, Otago Regional Council and NZTA to manage the growing traffic pressures on State Highway 6.

This followed the announcement of $52 million to enable the building of 1,850 houses in Kingston and at new greenfield sites adjacent to Quail Rise on the Frankton Flats.

“All up $76 million in 10-year interestfree loans from the Government’s HIF programme will be pumped into

Queenstown to increase the supply of housing,” Phil Twyford said.

The announcement for Queenstown’s Ladies Mile will provide further support for the Frankton commercial centre and surrounding development.

“These three developments – at Ladies Mile, Kingston and Quail Rise, will substantially boost Queenstown Lakes District Council’s ability to address the town’s increasing housing supply and affordability issues caused by huge demand from not only the resident population, but also seasonal and short-term workers and visitors.

developments, particularly for affordable housing, and funding towards infrastructure to support those developments will go a long way to ease pressures on councils,” Phil Twyford said.

supply and sewage treatment plants, and storm water network infrastructure for the existing town and new development, along with reticulation of water supply and waste water to the existing area.

The $1 billion HIF will enable at least 28,000 new dwellings in high growth areas around the country to be built over the next 10 years and over 56,000 in the longer term.

Development in Kingston will now be accelerated with the first of the 950 houses expected in 2020.

“Over the coming decade this investment in infrastructure through HIF funding will bring forward the construction of around 3,000 homes. The investment is well justified with medium rents over $600 per week and house values rising seven per cent over the last year.

Previous announcements of HIF funding for Queenstown

“Councils in high growth areas like Queenstown are keen to progress housing

Funding for infrastructure at Kingston will support new housing. It is also for new water

$52 million for Kingston and Quail Rise South Kingston – developing an affordable housing location in easy reach of Queenstown.

Quail Rise South on the Frankton Flats – bringing forward housing construction by seven years Infrastructure will include a reservoir and water mains, a gravity wastewater main, and connector road to SH6, bus stops and a pedestrian underpass to the Frankton Flats commercial area. The development is expected to provide 900 houses within 10 years.

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The No Limits Fixing team are a very important part of our overall package. They are the ones that provide a quality surface to allow our plastering and painting teams to create the high standard of work we achieve. Even before the lining begins, a final quality check of all surfaces is recorded to ensure a high standard is maintained.

We have the painters to cater for any job, from sensitive public areas to large commercial contracts of 10,000sqm plus, and everything between. If you need help on finding exactly the right shade of colour to suit your space, our experts can provide you with near limitless options as well as a range of clever and innovative paints.

No Limits Interiors can handle jobs of any size. We always take care to leave your property as clean and tidy as we found it.

Our interior specialists offer high quality fixing, interior plastering, painting, coving, level 5, interior and exterior timber treatments, and feature walls.

We like to work closely with our builders to ensure that all critical light areas are well planned to get the best possible finish for our clients.

Stopping Our plasterers offer friendly and reliable expertise for all kinds of plastering. If you need interior plastering for a single room, renovation or plastering for a new build or commercial building, we are the team for the job.

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FIX, STOP AND PAINT Adam Evans 021 171 8223 | Josiah Carnie 021 159 4857 adam@nolimitsinteriors.co.nz | www.nolimitsinteriors.co.nz 92 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Focus on Nelson

Change to online building consent applications The Nelson City Council, in conjunction with the Tasman District Council, have changed the way they accept building consent applications.

They have moved to a new system called AlphaOne. The Alpha One Digital Building Control System allows you to submit and track applications, including building consents, certificate of acceptances, exemptions and code compliance certificates. The councils will also be streamlining inspection bookings using the AlphaOne booking app.

AlphaOne replaces the GoShift portal, which both councils used while investigating an end-to-end building consent application solution. Using the GoShift portal helped both councils understand more about what their customers required from them.

The move to AlphaOne represents part of the Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council’s commitment to improving the building consent application process for customers.

The AlphaOne system has provided both councils with a common system for customers which covers the full building consenting process, from application to issue of Code Compliance Certificate. The system is being used by 11 other councils across the country and has been in use for around five years.

As with any significant change to any business system there is always a bedding in period.

Everything for every job under one roof.

As AlphaOne is an end to end system it inherently impacts all aspects of the consenting process business.

For more information, visit: http://our.nelson.govt.nz www.alphaonebuildingconsent.com

Nelson’s housing capacity At the Council meeting on December 13, 2018, a recently completed assessment of Nelson’s housing capacity, carried out under the National Policy Statement for the Urban Development Capacity (NPS-UDC), was accepted by the Council.

The report shows that the council’s work to provide land and infrastructure for new housing is critical in preparing the city to keep up with housing demand over the next 30 years.

The analysis provides the council with meaningful data on the suitability of remaining land for housing growth, and has enabled a future-focussed approach to planning for housing capacity.

The assessment supports the council’s commitment to stay ahead of the game in the medium to long term.

Projections of future demand shows that, without the council’s response, the city’s demand for enough housing will exceed capacity within 30 years.

By implementing new programmes such as the City Centre Programme, the 30-year

Infrastructure Fund and the Nelson-Tasman Future Development Strategy, the council is working to ensure we can meet the expected demand for housing.

The assessment was carried out as a collaboration between Nelson City and Tasman District Councils, to allow for a wider perspective on urban housing capacity.

BRANCHES SAXTON ROAD, ST VINCENT STREET, MOTUEKA PH 03 547 9111 FAX 03 547 4200

The Nelson-Tasman Future Development Strategy will provide a basis to inform the ways in which greater housing capacity may be enabled in the Nelson Plan.

As part of its day to day business, the council is continuing to support developers including through the Special Housing Areas programme and by supporting housing choices within and near the city centre.

LOCALS SUPPORTING LOCALS

PLACEMAKERS NELSON BAYS www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 93

Top of the South

Marlborough Long Term Plan proposal adopted The cycle trail investment will attract significant visitor numbers and create opportunities for South Marlborough to generate new business post-earthquake.

With eyes firmly set on the long-term prosperity of the district, the Marlborough District Council has adopted the Consultation Document relating to its 2018-28 Long Term Plan, ‘Investing in Marlborough’.

The new library/gallery will not only help invigorate the lower High Street river area and attract more visitors, but will also enable the library to offer better service to its many users, as has been seen with the new Picton Library - Waitohi Whare Matauranga.

“We need to ensure Marlborough stays ahead of the curve and is ready for the future. That means rates increases to fund our Investing in Marlborough programme could be a bit higher than in previous years. I also want to make our rating system fairer, so that everyone pays their fair share.”

Mayor John Leggett says the plan seeks to address three key priorities for Marlborough - looking after the environment, investing in economic development, and building and maintaining infrastructure.

“The Consultation Document summarises our planned projects and expenditure and how we plan to pay for them. I encourage people to have a look and give us their feedback.

“Council’s mission is to invest in Marlborough’s future, our people, our quality lifestyle and our wonderful natural environment. And ensure every dollar we spend delivers a service or creates a benefit for ratepayers and residents.

“Marlborough is a great place to live, work and visit. We are a region with great facilities and attractions, but we also have our fair share of challenges,” he says.

“We’re concentrating on core services and using our reserve funds wherever possible, so there’s little scope for non-essentials.

Essential services are driving increases in

capital spending on roading, water and sewerage networks, community facilities and flood protection.

“The Council also has to be prepared to meet new Government-imposed national standards for the environment and public health.

“This Plan also proposes more resources for environmental science to enable Council to deliver better environmental management and monitoring. We had a clear message from the public that more emphasis is

needed on protecting biodiversity and with a new Marlborough Environment Plan on the way we need to be able to fulfil its aspirations for managing our natural and physical resources well.

“We’re proposing to spend 40 percent of our capital expenditure budget on water and sewerage services over the next 10 years.”

Provision of future funding for the Marlborough Kaikoura coastal cycling and walking trail and for a new Blenheim library and art gallery are included in the plan.

The draft budget projects average annual rate increases of between 2.30 percent and 5.33 percent over the next 10 years (excluding the impact of the Flaxbourne Irrigation Scheme, which falls only on users of the scheme), with an increase in total rates for the 2018-19 year at 4.81 percent.

“These are not final figures as each year Council reviews its priorities before setting rates. In previous years this has resulted in rates increases lower than that forecast in the Long Term Plan.

“We’re at the start of what I hope will be a robust public consultation process – and I encourage residents and ratepayers to tell us what they think, before we firm up our plan.”

Simcox Construction Simcox Construction has been part of the fabric of Marlborough since the early 1980s, responsible for much of the civil construction, infrastructure works and earthmoving in the region.

Having developed a wealth of experience and knowledge working in the unique

environment of the Marlborough Sounds, they have been the recipients of multiple industry accolades, but none of which are more valued than their status in the eyes of their clients.

From their beginnings in expert drain laying, Simcox Construction’s services have advanced over the years and on the back of word of mouth referrals to include earthworks, drainage and waterway infrastructure, vineyard development and dam construction, road construction and

servicing, retaining walls, quarries, site/ section clearing and more.

The loss of founder Ian Simcox in 2015 is still felt deeply by all who knew him and he is honoured daily in the practices carried out to his standard of excellence, integrity and professionalism.

This is now enhanced with the coming together of Isaac Construction and Simcox Construction in partnering in Canterbury and Marlborough, with a purchase of Simcox by Isaac Construction being

completed late 2018, to bring better outcomes to customers with combined internal capabilities.

Simcox Construction’s services are supported by our longstanding staff and trusted management team to ensure clients expectations are not only met but exceeded.

“Get in touch with us to discuss how our machinery, people and expertise can get the best results for your project – big or small.”

SPECIALISTS IN:

SIMCOX CONSTRUCTION 94 | B&C - Issue #114

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14 Taylor Pass Rd, Blenheim

Top of the South

Two years’ progress since the Kaikoura earthquake November 14 last year marked two years since the 7.8 magnitude Kaikoura earthquake that dramatically changed the landscape and disrupted the lives of so many in the region.

Mayor John Leggett said the day was one for reflection, but also a time to recognise the work by many people to support progress towards recovery made across Marlborough since November 2016.

“In many ways Marlborough has shown great resilience and has come through the impact of the earthquake well. Most of our businesses were able to get up and running quickly.

“While building and land damage was very significant for the East Coast, Seddon and Ward, the impact of the closure of State Highway 1 also had a major impact on Marlborough’s wider community and of course our tourism industry.

“Since the highway reopened, the visitor economy quickly recovered and we are seeing very good growth in that sector. I’d like to thank Destination Marlborough and all the tourism operators for working together so effectively to enable this to happen.

“Thank you to the many people, too numerous to mention by name, who have contributed to the earthquake recovery programme - it has been a huge effort by hundreds of individuals and organisations.”

The priorities for Council over the past two years have focused on repairs and reinstatement, he said.

“Our repair programme has stretched out over the last 24 months. We’ve focused on infrastructure, much of it essential repairs to quake-damaged roads, stormwater and sewerage systems, and the reinforcement or replacement of community facilities.

“The work is diverse, ranging from strengthening the Stadium 2000 building, scoping the damage to Blenheim’s sewer network, where repairs are now underway, and efforts by our rivers’ engineers to restore the flow of the Ōpaoa River.

“Despite the events that Mother Nature served up, I’m incredibly proud of the resilience, determination and bravery shown by our community,” he said.

Economic growth Marlborough’s economy has been building at the fastest pace experienced in more than a decade.

Since 2007, Marlborough’s economic performance has been affected by a series of events; not only by the global financial crisis

but also drought, consolidation of the wine industry and the effect of earthquakes.

Quarterly economic data from Infometrics estimates GDP growth for Marlborough in the year to March 2018 was 4.4 percent, outstripping the national rate of 2.7 percent.

At the same time unemployment continues to track below the national picture, now sitting at 2.8 percent, a return to the low level not seen since in Marlborough 2009.

With most indicators at or above the national figures, this report shows how well the region is doing, and particularly how it is bouncing back from the Kaikōura quake, says John.

“The statistics confirm anecdotal feedback; we have a strengthening economy showing steady and consistent growth and perhaps the biggest problem is that our businesses just can’t get enough workers.”

Infometrics attributes Marlborough’s economic growth to post-quake rebuilding, improving outlooks for key export industries, strong population growth and tourism revival.

Traffic flows through the region, disrupted by the earthquake, have recovered since SH1 was reopened, boosting summer tourism activity and pushing up visitor spending.

Infometrics predicts the road reopening will bring further recovery for the tourism sector over winter when the majority of Marlborough’s domestic visitors arrive by road from Canterbury.

Marlborough’s construction sector is humming, with consents issued for $53M of non-residential projects over the year to March. That’s a 19.2 percent jump on the previous year. At the same time, the number of residential dwelling consents issued has climbed by almost a third.

Morgan Plumbing At Morgan Plumbing we offer a broad range of services.

Expect all repairs and installations to be completed quickly and efficiently when calling on Morgan Plumbing.

From plumbing, drainage and waste water to roofing and gas fitting, there’s nothing the team from Morgan Plumbing can’t handle!

You can trust that our fully licenced team use only the highest quality equipment and materials when completing all our solutions in your home or business. Morgan Plumbing is your all-round solution.

We offer a broad range of styles, services and solutions, no matter what you’re looking for we can handle any job big or small.

Morgan Plumbing has been providing a vast range of plumbing, roofing, drainage and gasfitting services and solutions to residents in the Marlborough region and Blenheim for over 30 years!

Call us for information and service regarding any of the following: • Roofing (long run Coloursteel, Butynol and Kingspan) • Plumbing

• Drainage (including waste water) • Gas Fitting.

We have built a strong reputation for being the team you can trust to arrive on time and leave you with lasting results.

We offer a 24 hour / 7-day emergency call out service, so you can be assured that if you have an emergency that can’t wait we are only a phone call away.

Morgan Plumbing are also members of the Master Plumbers and Site Safe for that piece of mind.

Call Morgan Plumbing – The Team You Can Trust.

Morgan Plumbing Limited (03) 578 0060 info@morganplumbing.co.nz www.morganplumbing.co.nz

• PLUMBING • DRAINLAYING • GAS SUPPLIER & FITTING • ROOFING

K J Morgan Plumbing Ltd

11 Purkiss Street, PO Box 925, BLENHEIM 7240

t: 03 578 0060 f: 03 578 0994 www.morganplumbing.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 95

FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire

Your first choice for fire protection services Installing and maintaining fire protection systems is highly specialised and challenging. But it was a challenge that back in 1996 Simon and Julie Malthus turned into an opportunity and a successful company in the Nelson Marlborough region.

Simon had experience in the industry from working in multi-national companies. His depth of knowledge was well respected and soon FFP Nelson Marlborough fire Ltd grew in both size and reputation.

What are the main services FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire provide?

“Protecting critical assets from damage or destruction by fire is fundamental to any company or organisation,” says Thorben Hoffschneider, general manager of FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire.

• Fire protection equipment sales

“We are the company of choice for fire systems installation and maintenance for many of the region’s major businesses delivering quality of servicing, workmanship and advice to our customers.”

Key to success FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire has a team of 19 staff - trained, experienced and competent to work on many different fire protection systems.

“We are very proud of our team. They are risk takers and problem solvers with a ‘can do’ attitude to get any job done. There is no challenge out there that we can’t help our clients to overcome.”

FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire believes in investing in its staff for both technical and health and safety training. As result,

• Fire protection systems installation • Systems testing • Systems maintenance • Building Warrants of Fitness.

FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire Limited installed fire protection systems at the Nelson Hospice.

a number of its team have been with the company for between 6-10 years.

“Our office manager Kristin Smith (otherwise known as Miss K) tops the longevity stakes though. She’s been with the company for over 20 years and knows all our clients.

Her role is very important when it comes to maintaining trust and good relationships with clients.”

Scope of services FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire installs fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems, maintains and tests those systems and also carries out building warrants of fitness.

More than 35 years of continous innovation 20 full-time research & development engineers 7 offices in New Zealand and Australia Leading fire system professionals use PERTRONIC fire alarm systems

The company is installing a fire protection installation in the extension to Two Rivers Winery.

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Contact Pertronic for more information PERTRONIC INDUSTRIES LIMITED

Wellington

Auckland

17 Eastern Hutt Road, Wingate Lower Hutt 5019 Phone: +64 4 567 3229 sales@pertronic.co.nz

359 Onehunga Mall, Onehunga Auckland 1061 Phone: +64 9 633 0226 sales@pertronic.co.nz

www.pertronic.co.nz

96 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

P: 04 589 0856 | 0800 99 34 73 E: sales@vikingnz.co.nz 12 Cornish St Petone Lower Hutt 5012

FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire | Shepherd & Kime

Panel and paint specialists As one of the longest standing panel and paint mechanics in Christchurch, Shepherd & Kime has a no-nonsense approach to handling demand. Their motto, “the best for panel and paint”, has garnered them a stellar reputation and a bigger following.

This year FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire will begin an installation at the new Greengables Rest Home.

"

We are the company of choice for fire systems installation and maintenance for many of the region’s major businesses delivering quality of servicing, workmanship and advice to our customers.

- FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire general manager Thorben Hoffschneider

“We are truly a one-stop shop. With over 20 years’ experience in the fire protection industry, we have designed and installed all types of special hazard systems. This includes gas suppression systems, foam fire suppression systems, deluge systems and aspirating systems. The list goes on and on,” says Thorben.

The company aims to be involved in the largest projects in the Nelson and Marlborough region, projects that impact and benefit the region and it has been successful in that.

“This year we modernised our fleet to improve our coverage of the region in Marlborough reinforcing our local team in Blenheim.

"

Fruit Ltd in Motueka and next year we begin an installation at the new Greengables Rest Home.”

FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire has been delivering fire protection for its clients for over 20 years and is committed to continuing to serve the region well into the future.

“We know and understand the market in the Nelson and Marlborough regions. Our clients know they can count on us to complete a project on time and on budget and compliant with all the legal standards.

“We are proud of the long-term and trusted relationships we have formed with our clients.”

“We are currently undertaking several large fire protection installation projects there, ranging from projects at the new K-Mart, at Talley’s Mussel Factory and Clearwater Mussels Ltd in Havelock to projects at Drylands Winery and in an extension to Two Rivers Winery.”

This year marks 23 years since Shepherd & Kime first opened its doors. When young panel beaters Gary Shepherd and Errol Kime joined forces to create a collision repair centre, they quickly made a reputation for high quality panel and paint repairs.

There have been huge advancements in the motoring industry since then, but Shepherd & Kime continue to step up to the challenge, including opening a second Antigua Street branch to help cater to the spread of demand.

When Gary and Errol retied in 2006, the reins of the business were handed over to new owners, Gerard Kime and Dave Kennedy, who adopted the same level of commitment and services to their customers.

It was a seamless transition and in the years following another branch was opened, this time in Burnside, to offer their services to those on the airport side of town.

Quick, quality work

FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire Limited

FFP Nelson Marlborough is soon to wrap up one of its largest jobs – a two-year project that began in 2017 installing fire protection systems in the new terminal and in the control tower at Nelson airport.

12a Elms Street PO Box 2365 Stoke Nelson (03) 548 2640 www.ffpnelson.co.nz

“We have also installed fire protection systems at Nelson Hospice, at Golden Bay

firewater fire pump systems

What sets Shepherd & Kime apart from their competitors is their ability to work efficiently and without compromising on quality.

Each branch offers a full complement of services to keep people moving, from car park dings to major collision repairs, full body re-sprays and even free loan vehicles.

“We work closely with all insurance companies and are a preferred repairer for several of them,” Gerard says. “We all work together to minimise a client’s concerns and make their experience hassle free.”

Shepherd & Kime’s services: • Quality panel and paint repairs • Quick turn around • Free quotes • Free loan vehicles • Pick up and delivery • Competitive rates • Guaranteed workmanship.

As members of the NZ Collision Repair Association and the Motor Trade Association, Shepherd & Kime remain at the forefront of the industry and up to date with the latest industry knowledge and developments.

Shepherd & Kime’s skilled technicians know exactly what you want and aim to get you mobile as soon as possible.

Shepherd & Kime Ltd 137 Antigua Street Addington T (03) 366 8256 E admin@sandk.co.nz 35 Sheffield Crescent Burnside T (03) 348 4448 E sheffield@sandk.co.nz

www.shepherdandkime.co.nz

Phone: 03-379 9349 Email: info@firewater.co.nz www.firewater.co.nz

www.firewater.co.nz

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is New Zealand’s leading provider of fire pumps and pump stations for industrial and commercial fire fighting systems.

Specialists in: • Panel and paint supplies • Wood and industrial coatings

We provide a full design, manufacture and installation service, using best in class pumps backed by expert technicians with many years’ experience.

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is proud to supply and be associated with FFP Nelson Marlborough.

72 Williams Street Kaiapoi

Galbraith Engineering Limited

375 Tuam Street Christchurch

www.autosmart.co.nz

0800 108 206

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 97

Directory

Bolts and Fasteners

Business Immigration

Concrete & Paving

Bolts & Nuts • Screws • Hinges • Rivets Threaded Rods • Teng Tools Stainless Steel

Southern Bolts & Fasteners Ltd Ph 2188085 | 0800 723 100 FAX 2188215 A/H 021 478 565

Email: admin@southernbolts.co.nz Email: elvin@southernbolts.co.nz

WITH 30 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY WE OFFER SPECIALIST SKILLED WORKERS FOR YOUR SPECIFIC NEEDS We offer a full package: Recruitment to suit your requirements Work Visa’s / Renewals. No matter where you are in New Zealand we can assist you to find the worker you need.

www.southernbolts.co.nz | 117 Clyde St, Invercargill

137 Victoria St, Christchurch Central 8013, PO Box 5041 P: 03 352 6702 E: admin@businessimmigrationnz.com www.businessimmigrationnz.com

Driver Training

Earthworks

Elvin 021 478 565

DO YOU NEED A TRUCK LICENCE OR ENDORSEMENT?

• Driveways • Earthquake Repairs • New Home Specialists • Patios & Paths

Electrics

AVAILABLE FOR ALL DEMOLITION & EXCAVATION WORK AT REASONABLE RATES EXCAVATION / SITEWORKS / CAR PARKS / DRIVEWAYS 20 TONNE, 14 TONNE, 5 TONNE EXCAVATORS TRUCK & TRAILER / WATER CART 10,000 LITRE Contact: Peter Kaisa M. 027 207 3323 E. kaisa.earthworks@xtra.co.nz

CANDRI E

One call for all your electrical needs…

Nothing is impossible • LED Downlight replacement • Insurance Electrical Inspections • Industrial/commercial service, new installations or maintenance www.masterelectrics.co.nz • Boiler Maintenance MasterElectricsNZ • Thermal Imaging leo@masterelectrics.co.nz • Power factor testing and 0800 438 769 harmonics

CANTERBURY DRIVER TRAINING LTD

Epoxy Injections

Finance We provide advice and solutions to businesses in financial difficulty.

Contact us for a free initial consultation on your options.

Commercial construction and repair work within Christchurch and throughout Canterbury is something we do and do well.

Todd Halliday 027 667 8667 Dave Marshall 027 884 6568

Garage Doors Incorporating North Canterbury Garage Doors

Residential & Commercial Supply - Install Repairs & Maintenance Auto Door Openers Supply - Install Repairs Auto Openers (motors)

RESTRUCTURING • INSOLVENCY • ADVISORY www.htconstruction.co.nz

09 280 5900 • www.rescorporate.co.nz Building D/42 Tawa Dr, Albany, Auckland 0632

Plumbing

Roofing

Door Upgrades Rebuilds - Alterations Installations - Door Repairs Cedar - Roller - Sectional - Tilt

P 03 310 6577 M 027 207 6128 E hamish@abelgaragedoors.co.nz

www.abelgaragedoors.co.nz

Scaffolding Delivering projects to the highest standards across the whole range of scaffolding requirements.

PLUMBING / DRAINLAYING / GAS SUPPLIER & FITTING / ROOFING K J Morgan Plumbing Ltd 11 Purkiss Street, P O Box 925, BLENHEIM 7240

t: 03 578 0060 | f: 03 578 0994 www.morganplumbing.co.nz 98 | B&C - Issue #115

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Available for all your roofing & metal wall cladding requirements Daniel Hay PO Box 391, Timaru Mobile: 027 555 3551 Email: roofingdan@xtra.co.nz

• Health and Safety • Commercial Scaffolding • Industrial Scaffolding

• Residential Scaffolding • Propping & Shore Loading • Equipment Hire/Sales

0508 SUMMIT (786648) www.summitscaffolding.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #115 - B&C | 99

ADJUSTASTAIRS SPECIALISTS IN HEIGHT ACCESS FOR NZ CONSTRUCTION

90 TOP FIXING BRACKET

• Treads self level to suit the height within a 30-45 degree range • Lightweight for easy relocation around the site • Quick to set up, and folds flat for storage and transportation • Available in 600mm or 1200mm widths

SELF LEVELLING TREADS

• Available in lightweight marine grade aluminium or fibreglass for electrical safety

FOLDING HANDRAILS

LARGE SUPPORT FOOT

ANTI-SLIP STAIR TREADS

COMPLIES WITH

AS/NZS 1576 : 2010

CONTACT US AND QUOTE “B&C” FOR A FREE ONE WEEK ONSITE TRIAL

FREEPHONE 0800 000 448 sales@safesmartaccess.co.nz www.safesmartaccess.co.nz