Builders & Contractors Magazine, Issue #129

Issue #129 - 2021

SEALING THE DEAL The huge ramifications of weathertightness

What are the limits

on building project variations?

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Taking a broader view of construction risk management

The largest small business challenges

STRATEGIES TO DEAL WITH STRESS IN THE INDUSTRY

Red hot The subdivision preaching affordability in Queenstown’s sizzling property market Navigating your finances

Tips from a veteran tradie

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Issue #129 - B&C | 3

Contents, Issue #129 - 2021 Page: 10

Page: 15

Page: 82

Contents 6:

Welcome

- publisher's note This issue of Builders & Contractors looks at the ever-topical subject of a building’s weathertightness and how it can have huge ramifications.

We look at Mates in Construction - the suicide prevention programme striving to halt deaths in the construction sector, the Queenstown subdivision preaching affordability in Central Otago’s sizzling property market, strategies to deal with stress in the industry, risk management, the five largest small business challenges, and a veteran tradie gives practical financial advice.

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.

Enjoy!

31:

What are the limits on building project variations?

7:

The five largest small business challenges

11:

Taking a broader view of construction risk management

14: 16:

What Kiwi employees want

Civil Contractors' conference expected to be biggest yet

32: The subdivision preaching affordability

in Queenstown’s sizzling property market

33: Housing construction costs on the rise;

up 1.3 percent over March quarter

68: The ways Ward Demolition reduces

its carbon footprint.

72: The weathertightness of a

building can have huge ramifications

74: Housing flammable and

oxidising substances

34: The suicide prevention programme

78: What you need to know about

40: Steel construction - the value of research 43: Grayson Engineering’s new paint

20: How to use coaching to build

46: How to be sure you’re getting the steel

22: Navigating your finances - tips from a

50: Combating coastal erosion block by

86: Kaiapoi Cycleway nears completion 90: Counting the costs of road safety

18:

Te Waihanga consulting on major changes to New Zealand’s infrastructure planning and delivery Strengthening the Licensed Building Practitioners scheme accountability and drive performance

veteran tradie

24: The origins of, and strategies to deal

with, stress in construction

30: Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers

Act working well

striving to halt deaths in the construction sector

facility is up and running you specify

concrete block

changes to the Residential Tenancies Act

80: Keeping scaffold use and management safe

82: Breaking apprenticeship stereotypes 84: The first of several reservoirs planned for Northland goes ahead

56: Navigating the rules governing new

builds in Otago

Page: 34

67: The information you need to provide at

workplace inductions

Page: 31

r JonathanTayloEditor 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 #129

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.

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:

Jonathan Taylor PO Box 1879, Christchurch, 8041 Phone: (03) 961 5098 Email: editor@markat.co.nz

Production:

Jarred Shakespeare PO Box 1879, Christchurch, 8041 Phone: (03) 961 5088 Email: jarred@markat.co.nz

Sales Manager:

Monice Kruger PO Box 1879, Christchurch, 8041 Phone: (03) 961 5083

Disclaimer This publication is provided on the basis that AMark Publishing NZ Ltd 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. AMark Publishing NZ Ltd 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 AMark Publishing NZ Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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Issue #129 - B&C | 5

Viewpoints

What are the limits on building project variations?

In the residential sector the process is a little less formal and changes are often requested by the clients or recommended by the contractor, on the spot, and without any formal documentation or pricing.

In both fixed price projects and cost reimbursement projects these variations are often responsible for the price ballooning out beyond the parties’ expectations, frequently leading to payments being withheld and disputes having to be resolved.

Variations aren’t automatic It might surprise you to know that under the common law, a variation that is insisted upon by just one of the parties, is unlawful. That is because a deal is a deal, and the deal the parties struck at the outset of the project was

However even if there is a variation clause in the building contract, there are still limits on what the building owner can demand of the contractor – unless the contract makes it very clear that there are no such limits.

If that isn’t made clear, then the common law will not permit the owner to direct variations that place an unreasonable burden on the contractor or require the contractor to do something well outside the general nature of the responsibilities the builder took on at the outset. Nor will it allow the owner to remove work from the builder’s scope so that the owner can do it or give it to another contractor.

What the standard contracts say The New Zealand Standards (“NZS”) suite of commercial building contracts limit variations to those “within the scope of the contract”.

The NZS Housing, Alterations & Small Buildings Contract, and the New Zealand Institute of Architects contracts, prohibit variation orders which are so peculiar, unexpected or different from what was anticipated that the scope of the builder’s responsibilities is significantly altered.

In the Master Builders contracts the builder must give reasonable consideration to the owner’s written request for a variation, and cannot arbitrarily withhold consent. And in the Certified Builders contracts, the builder must carry out all requested variations provided they don’t impose an unreasonable burden on the builder.

Sometimes the contractor does something that is not found in the agreed plans and specifications and yet it is not a variation.

In those cases, the contractor might be denied an extra payment and extension of time unless it can prove that its pricing simply Hansen and Yuncken won the head contract could not have contemplated the additional to construct an eight-storey office building. work that the extra design entails.

The design called for the stairwells and corridors to be coated with “Wallflex” and What if the building contract specifies a process for directing and claiming variations, the head contractor subcontracted that work to Chadmax. but the parties ignore it?

Then the Principal changed its mind about the wall coating and directed Hansen and Yuncken to paint the walls instead. Both the head contract and the subcontract provided that all variations had to be within the general scope of the contract and be of a character and extent that is contemplated All of those are very common in residential by it. These were standard form contracts in projects where the parties aren’t that familiar common use in South Australia at the time. with the contractual terms, but it is surprising Ironically, the change in wall coating was how often it happens in commercial held to be within the general scope of the projects too. head contract (because it was only a minor The short answer is that where the Principal change to the overall project), but the Court knows about the informality or lack of said it was not within the general scope of process but goes along with it, it will be very the subcontract (because it meant deleting difficult to deny the contractor an additional 98 percent of Chadmax’s work, which it was payment or a time extension simply on a already committed to). technicality, if a dispute erupts later.

That put Hansen and Yuncken between a rock and a hard place, because it had to Variations under comply with the Principal’s variation, but subcontracts could not impose it on Chadmax. So it ended up paying damages to Chadmax which it was Interestingly, in a subcontracting situation if not able to recover from the Principal. there is no formal subcontract other than the initial quote (which is frequently the case) What do we take from all of this? First, even then technically neither the head contractor standard-form construction contracts can nor the subcontractor can force the other to let you down at times. And secondly, there accept a variation. is a limit to the extent that your superior can order variations that either increase or However the form of subcontract in most decrease your work. common use in New Zealand (SA 2017) allows the head contractor to direct the subcontractor to do any kind of variation, and can even terminate the subcontract if the Principal removes that work (or a substantial part of it) from the head contract.

The subcontractor is left with no claim for damages or loss of profit unless the head Geoff Hardy has 45 years’ experience as contractor can claim them from the Principal. a commercial lawyer and is a partner in For example, they don’t record the variation in writing, the contractor doesn’t price it before starting work on it, the contractor doesn’t claim an extension of time until a dispute arises, or the parties don’t observe the time limits in the contract.

Even if the subcontract does allow the head contractor to direct the subcontractor to carry out variations, sometimes that isn’t as easy as it seems, as was illustrated by the 1984 South Australian case of Chadmax Plastics Pty Ltd v Hansen and Yuncken (S.A.) Pty Ltd.

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There is a rigid process for directing and pricing variations, and either party can end up missing out if they fail to follow the rules. The project then becomes a fractious contest where competing teams of designers, quantity surveyors and lawyers battle it out on a more or less continuous basis from commencement to practical completion.

For that reason, and because there is usually a sensible reason for variations, all of the standard-form building contracts in common use in New Zealand allow the client to require the contractor to carry out variations to some extent or other. The contractor is then entitled (or obliged, in the case of variations which make the job cheaper) to adjust its charges accordingly, and to claim an extension of time.

By Geoff Hardy, an Auckland commercial lawyer.

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In the larger commercial projects in the highly competitive construction sector, contractors often underbid to secure the job and then hope to make up the deficit in variation claims.

Unless you have a contract that allows for variations, or you both agree, then the clients cannot make the builder deviate from the plans and specifications, and neither can the builder do so at his own discretion.

That commonly happens where the plans are simply not detailed enough, so the contractor has to use its own initiative or call for more detail from the designer, but what the contractor ends up doing is still consistent with the original design.

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They occur for a variety of reasons, including the discovery during construction that aspects of the design are impractical or can be improved upon, site conditions proving to be more difficult than anticipated, clients changing their mind about structural or aesthetic components part-way through, some of the intended materials becoming unavailable, or the Council insisting on changes.

to build – and pay for – the structure that was originally designed and specified.

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Variations to the scope and specifications of the building project as originally agreed, occur on virtually every project, and they complicate what would otherwise be a straightforward process.

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Viewpoints

The 5 largest small business challenges As a biz consultant and regular owner of small business, here’s a snapshot of what I have seen as the most common challenges to operating a small business.

1. Getting more customers The challenge here is to attract customers of the type you want to have, not just anyone with a pulse! It’s not enough to place and advert or do a flyer and wait for the customers to roll in. It’s a regular fundamental part of each and every business day.

2. Lead generation Yes, a subset of #1 above, but done correctly this keeps your sales funnel alive with live leads which when correctly dealt with can convert to customers and then clients, even to raving fans. The quick fix on this is to have

a system and then work the system. Record touchpoints and then follow up. The success is in the follow up and raising awareness of what you can do to help them.

3. Hiring the right people People and staff are your biggest asset.

They can make or break your business.

Short term solutions include flicking out a job description, interview and appoint.

Why settle for an employee that is “okay” when you can have a great one for just a little longer wait and working an onboarding system? Make sure the applicants fit or even add to your business culture.

4. Managing workflow If you are really good at #1 and #2, then chances are you’re going to experience times where there’s more work than capacity. Fixing this is partly solved in #3 above but it needs to go further. No good having a great team if they are feeling pressured and stressed. You need a constant, honest and non-judgemental feedback loop. Most times the staff will have the answers – stop and ask them!

5. Cashflow Frequently a challenge in all sizes of businesses. What is your system to manage debtors’ payments and creditors bills?

Are you too soft and let people owe you money outside of your terms of trade?

There’s a wonderful calculation you can do that compares the cost of non-paying customers and how many debtor days it takes before you have lost all your profit margin on the sale. It’s quite frightening really and not always a long time (depending on your margins).

About Shi Martz Chartered Accountants Shi Martz brings together the discipline of Chartered Accountancy with the creativity of business development, the accuracy of audit and risk management and the panache of professional speaking.

We take a hands-on role and we pride ourselves on knowing facets of a client’s business personally.

We take a particular pride and care in ensuring clients assets are protected as

Martz Witty - Chief strategist at Shi Martz Chartered Accountants Are there any miracle cures for these challenges? Not really.

Mostly it comes to common sense and operating within a system. The secret is to be rigorous and definitive to everyone who falls into the system. Communication is paramount with your management, staff, customer and suppliers.

best they can be, and that clients pay only the minimum tax they are obliged to pay. This is done through proactive advice and questions from us, we do not wait for you to ask the questions!

We enjoy working with clients on the myriad of aspects that comprise a business where each part interrelates with the others. In essence it’s all about a partnership that results in you the client, getting all your ducks in a row.

Delivering projects to the highest standards across the whole range of scaffolding requirements.

• Health and Safety • Commercial Scaffolding • Industrial Scaffolding • Residential Scaffolding • Propping & Shore Loading • Equipment Hire/Sales

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Issue #129 - B&C | 7

Sitemate Power Systems

Powering the Future Temporary power distribution throughout a worksite is a vital part of any project and the equipment used to do this has remained the same for some time. Little attention was given to improving performance, safety, reliability, or user-friendliness – until now.

Auckland based company Sitemate Power Systems recognised that the temporary power options available to worksites across the country needed to evolve. They’ve now launched a new range of products that they say sets the benchmark for portable power solutions.

“We started from scratch and made sure that the people who use this equipment every day were involved in the process to introduce advantages and features that have been asked for in this category for decades,” says Sitemate product development manager Bruce Bailey.

Sitemate drew on feedback and expertise from people in the construction, demolition, civil, events and electrical industries as well as from ports, mills and mines.

“It was important that this product range was designed and developed in New Zealand,

by New Zealanders for the New Zealand market. We carefully selected the materials and specified a construction approach that changed the game, introducing advantages and features that had been asked for in this category for decades,” Bailey says.

The result is a comprehensive, versatile and scalable temporary power solution that includes portable main distribution switchboards, temporary power boxes, portable supply outlet assemblies, LED chain lighting and a large range of accessories – all connected by industry-leading, heavy-duty power leads.

The leads are available in lengths of 10, 15, 20 and 30 metres and either 32 Amp or 63 Amp with a copper braided screen ensuring maximum safety. They have all the attributes you’d expect from an industry leading cable and crucially, there is extensive stock on hand for customers and cable printing for identification and security is a free service.

8 | B&C - Issue #129

Carefully crafted

Scalable and versatile

The in-depth product development is visible throughout the Sitemate range, says Sitemate Business development manager, Richard Collins. He highlights the selection of materials, commitment to quality construction and attention to detail as significant strengths of the portable power offer.

Sitemate’s temporary power solution can be inter-connected to suit any worksite, from the easily deployed portable main distribution switchboard, through to the smaller 32 Amp power boxes or strings of LED chain lights available in 25 metre, 10 lights per chain providing a maximum output of 200W per chain.

“We knew this equipment would be used in some very tough environments and had to stand the test of hard, long-term use.

The construction needed to be superrugged but still simple to use, move and store,” says Collins.

“We believe the robust construction, the zinc-coated protective cage along with the heavy-duty flexible cable makes our LED site lighting offer the most rugged on the market,” says Collins.

The power box range is crafted from robust, impact resistant specially bonded polyethylene that is perfectly suited to New Zealand worksite conditions being UV treated and IP65 rated. All units are equipped with RCDs for added safety.

There are eight different sized units available, all are ‘plug and play’ and range from 10 to 250 Amp options. The outlet configurations cater for the most common applications in events, all building sites and large construction sites, however specific customisations are available on request.

“There are certain usability features that have been requested and welcomed by customers like the fact that ‘stackable’ actually means stackable and outlet maintenance or swap-outs can be performed hassle-free from the outside with no need to open up the units. We also listened and designed in multiple handles that offer various carry options as well as delivering some cable management,” says Collins.

A significant design feature is the recessed aspect of the outlets which delivers superior weather protection and reduces the chance of damage through collision or tipping.

Other improvements have been designed-in based on industry feedback, such as a stable footprint that minimises the risk of units toppling over, feet that can be anchored for added security and provide great ground clearance to avoid surface water or spills.

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This new temporary power solution from Sitemate is completed by well-chosen and designed accessories with 2,3 and 5-channel, interlocking cable protector ramps and an assortment of lead hooks, brackets and stands reducing trip hazards or risk to leads.

Bruce Bailey is confident that Sitemate’s new solution is the step forward that temporary site power has needed for some time and is excited about plans for the future which will deliver even more value – including security and tracking features, bolt on innovative accessories and ongoing product development.

For further information, visit www.sitematepower.co.nz

It was important that this product range was designed and developed in New Zealand, by New Zealanders for the New Zealand market.

We carefully selected the materials and specified a construction approach that changed the game, introducing advantages and features that had been asked for in this category for decades

Sitemate Power Systems

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 9

News

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Wynyard Edge Alliance project McConnell Dowell, celebrating 60 years of creative construction, has been instrumental in preparing Auckland’s waterfront for the hugely successful 36th America’s Cup. McConnell Dowell was part of the Wynyard Edge Alliance, alongside Downer, BECA, Tonkin + Taylor, Auckland Council and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

The Alliance recently won the Engineering New Zealand, Arthur Mead Award for Engineering Excellence for Projects greater than $10 million. It is also a proud finalist for this year’s Engineering New Zealand ENVI Awards and Civil Contractors NZ Gala Excellence Awards.

We wish the team all the best in the upcoming awards season.

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Image captions: 1. Cultural shade:

Silo Park’s Te Nukuao Cultural Shade Structure was conceived and designed with collaboration from iwi partners. Winner in the Small Project Architecture category at the recent Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects’ Auckland awards.

2. Wynyard Quarter:

Celebrations in Silo Park during the 36th America’s Cup.

3. Hobson Wharf:

Hobson Wharf nearing completion in record time, assisted by an innovative precast strategy and heavy marine plant.

4. Creating the stage:

The Wynyard Edge Alliance project team comprising McConnell Dowell, Downer, T+T, Beca, Panuku, Auckland Council and MBIE.

5. Sealink:

The newly constructed Sealink ferry terminal facility on Wynyard Point.

6. Daldy St Outfall:

Daldy Street Outfall was designed installed in record time utilizing many pipe installation innovations including “no person in the trench”.

7. Barge:

The majority of precast elements for the AC36 project were fabricated offsite in North Port and delivered to site by barge minimising impacts on Auckland traffic and reducing CO2 emissions.

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News

Taking a broader view of construction risk management Risk is a constant in the construction industry. From supply chain issues, unpredictable weather and labour shortages, to severe cases such as global health and economic crises; the variables that can disrupt construction projects are countless.

Historically, the engineering and construction industry’s ad hoc approach to risk management often led to identifying these risks too late in the project lifecycle, especially as it relates to project schedules and delivery timelines.

1. Identify the risks

This often comes when some firms make the mistake of only managing risks at the project level, which leads to an incomplete picture of exposure–and performance.

Keep in mind that it is impossible to identify and manage every possible risk. Therefore, the team should agree on those events most likely to occur and have the greatest impact.

These are the factors that they will monitor and seek to manage.

It is important for organisations to implement a broader focus on assessing risk that elevates visibility to the programme level, allowing teams across projects to optimise resources and adjust plans to strive toward successful outcomes. At the same time, many are not sure where to begin.

Here are five proven steps organisations can set to ensure they are on the right path when it comes to construction scheduling effectively.

At the beginning of a program or project, the management team should try to identify potential risks – whether it is bad weather or rising material costs.

2. Assess your exposure After identifying the most likely and impactful risks, the team should determine the likelihood of each risk occurring, as well as impacts to costs and schedules. Risks should then be ranked on how likely they are to occur, and by the level of their impact.

3. Determine a response strategy Teams should plan the specific actions they will take to mitigate high-impact risks. Scenario planning technology plays an important role here to assess what-if scenarios and determine costs and benefits of each mitigation strategy. While some risks cannot be avoided, such as building during unforeseen inclement weather conditions, this step can lessen the impact on the project by building in adequate schedule, labor, and supply chain contingencies.

4. Communicate for visibility After assessing risks and defining mitigation strategies, the team should communicate this information to the project sponsor or owner. This demonstrates an effort to take a proactive approach to risk mitigation and allows contractors an opportunity to discuss the risks, mitigation strategies, and potential impact on the schedule and cost of the project with the project owner.

5. Monitor, adapt, and repeat As risks continue to evolve, program managers must build in regular assessments to update

By Frank Malangone, Senior Director for Product and Industry Strategy, Oracle Construction and Engineering

risks and their mitigation strategies as conditions change. With more information about each risk and the impact of various mitigation strategies, project managers can make more informed decisions about the best path forward.

While risks cannot be completely eliminated, a methodical and collaborative approach to forward-looking risk management is key to mitigating potential negative impacts.

Good risk management strategies require the integration of dynamic and diverse sets of information, including budget, cost, and schedule data, with technology and tools hat provide high visibility and centralised data management.

With this in mind, organisations managing construction projects will be well on their way to shoring up their risk management practices.

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It makes everything else seem like a shovel.

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Issue #129 - B&C | 11

Workdek

Introducing the complete system to eliminate falls from height Nets have been a familiar sight on building sites since 2012. But ultimately, they hinder productivity and aren’t the safety net they’re cracked up to be. This was a common frustration with the builders who developed Workdek, the new stable work mate for builders.

Workdek is a combined, solid working and safety platform that reduces stresses on builders’ bodies whilst eliminating falls.

These stable, modular platforms increase efficiencies and safety at any height, and builders can have their heavy-duty tools right beside them.

Feedback from the first builders lucky enough to build with Workdek is they’re working twice as fast, which means they can build more and make more money in the process. Workdek is an absolute game changer for builders.

“Nets rarely stopped items falling through to lower levels and hurting our team, causing all kinds of health and safety issues as well as building delays,” says David from Workdek.

by a complete system that’s as easy to put together as playing with Lego.

The Workdek team originally developed giant inflatable safety matts for the base of building sites. But they were still the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff and they did nothing for builder productivity.

Whilst Workdek costs more than nets to install, this fee pales into comparison with the increased performance and profitability from working like you’re always on ground level. The improvement to stresses on the body are immeasurable too.

“We wanted our teams to work at any height with the same speed they would when standing on firm ground. And we needed to eliminate costly falls and improve safety for our teams,” says David.

It took new thinking to change the game After searching high and low for alternatives, the team at Workdek discovered safety platforms in the UK. They had been used with great success for over a decade. This system prevents falls and allows builders to work safely at any height, as if they were on solid ground.

Level-up your building performance

Mission accomplished. The Workdek team then made improvements to this platform system and is launching Workdek to the building industry with great success.

The people behind Workdek owned a building company, and like other builders, have experienced the frustrations of working with nets and inferior fall protection systems.

Workdek’s modular platforms are made from injection moulded panels which snap together creating a stable work platform at any building height. The decks are supported

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Cost versus value

It takes very little time for builders to realise what an amazing performance upgrade Workdek provides. Now builders can build more, working on a stable work platform at any height. Working twice as fast as they

would with competing “solutions” Workdek ensures builders make more money whilst staying safe.

Workdek is on the same page as Worksafe NZ Worksafe NZ endorses Workdek’s view on the hierarchy of fall protection, which is that eliminating the fall is better than capturing the fall. Nets are outdated, unsafe, and counterproductive. And Worksafe NZ has issued safety alerts over the use of nets.

Workdek is the solution.

To learn more and get started with Workdek, visit: www.workdek.com.

Workdek

workdek.com

Increase building productivity to make more bank Complete work twice as fast by walking on a flat surface anywhere on site with your tools and machinery.

Workdek is a modular, stable work platform system that helps builders work quickly, efficiently and safely at any height. Working on Workdek feels like you’re always on flat, solid ground. Complete building projects much faster, and move to the next project to make more money without more staff. Worksafe NZ wants you to eliminate the fall, not capture it. Workdek is the answer.

Installation is as easy as playing with Lego

Make building easier on the team while improving their productivity and safety.

Call: 0800 3255 7233 Online: workdek.com

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 13

News

What Kiwi employees want The desire for work-life balance overtakes salaries as the number one employment driver among kiwis for the first time in 10 years.

The way New Zealand companies have supported their workers through Covid is having a positive impact on employee loyalty - according to Randstad’s 2021 Employer Brand Research.

Work-life balance has also overtaken salaries and benefits (number one for the past decade) as the most important driver for those looking for roles with job security in third place followed by pleasant work atmosphere (fourth) and good training in fifth place.

The 2021 Randstad Employer Brand Research is based on a survey of more than 4000 New Zealanders, conducted for Randstad by Kantar.

Of those working or looking for new roles, the research showed that 66 percent of Kiwi employees feel more loyal than a year ago and the number of those looking to change roles, or who have done so over the past 12 months, has also dropped.

Government agencies have taken out the top four of the top 10 places Kiwis want to work, with NZ Customs in the number one spot followed by DOC and MBIE. The Ministry of Health represented the biggest mover of 2021, coming in at number seven versus its ranking of 45th in 2020.

2021 Top Ten Employers to work for in New Zealand 1. New Zealand Customs Service 2. Department of Conservation 3. Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment 4. Beca 5. TVNZ 6. EBOS Group 7. Ministry of Health 8. Kiwibank 9. Massey University 10. Ara Institute

Randstad New Zealand’s country manager, Katherine Swan, says the survey findings tell a nuanced story about how employers have stepped up and supported employees since the pandemic began.

“Being able to work remotely, keeping people employed and ensuring good health practices appear to have increased loyalty.

“We’re also seeing a growing return to employee confidence for exploring new opportunities as New Zealand bounces back from the worst of the pandemic reinforcing

in the last six months of 2020 with those aged 18 to 24 more likely to have switched (21 percent).

“If someone’s employment situation has been impacted in some way due to COVID-19, there’s a slightly higher intention to change jobs (28 percent) than those who just intend to change employers for general reasons (20 percent),” Katherine says.

New Zealand workplaces are also perceived as being safer COVID-19 work environments than those in APAC where a COVID-19 safe

Top 5 Most Important Drivers When Choosing an Employer 2021 1. Work-life balance

2020

2019

Attractive salary and benefits

Attractive salary and benefits

2. Attractive salary and benefits Work-life balance

Work-life balance

3. Job security

Pleasant work atmosphere

Job security

4. Pleasant work atmosphere

Job security

Pleasant work atmosphere

5. Good training

Good training

Good training

the importance for organisations to continue building brand strength to retain and attract new talent during the recovery,” she explains.

work environment ranks fifth out of 10 factors employers are perceived to offer employees.

Work-life balance more valuable than ever

The importance of giving back

Katherine says the shift from salary and benefits to work life balance is likely due to the escalation of working remotely and digital transformation to support employees to deliver outside of the office, but also a shift in worker priorities with monetary reward no longer the most important employment driver.

Randstad’s report, which captures employer attractiveness traits, also found a general feeling of job stability among Kiwis with 54 percent not worried about losing their job in 2021.

Of those worried, more are men than women (22 percent vs 18 percent), even though men were more likely to have continued working as normal during the pandemic.

Over the past year one in eight people have changed employers and 13 percent changed

Employees who changed employers are more likely to attach importance to those doing good when compared to those who stayed with their employer in the last six months of 2020.

The Department of Conservation ranked highest for giving back and half of candidates said they would not work for a company with a bad reputation – even with a pay increase.

The company rated highest for work-life balance was Christchurch-based EBOS Group Limited. Those ranked highest for other drivers when selecting employers were: • PWC – attractive salaries and benefits • Royal NZ Navy – job security

“If your culture is transparent candidates will be better able to understand how they could fit in. That could be through reading positive employee and candidate experiences on review sites or talking with existing or former employees,” she says.

Shift to social Seek, Trade Me and job boards are still the biggest go-to-source for roles online, but Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and Snapchat are rapidly rising according to the survey.

Of those using social media, more than double the number of candidates searched Instagram over the past year compared to the year prior while Twitter jumped from 12 percent to 29 percent for the same period.

Facebook experienced an increase of three percent but Snapchat more than doubled from 12 percent to 27 percent.

Despite the rise in social, personal connections and referral programmes also remain important.

“In a buoyant job market finding the best talent can be a challenge for employers which is why new employees sourced from current employee referrals remains very important.

• Coca-Cola Amatil – financially healthy • Fire and Emergency NZ – very good reputation

Being valued also means supporting employers to work smarter not harder.

• Department of Internal Affairs – COVID-19 safe work environment

“Enabling people to be more efficient, be it through flexible working or investing in new tools, has the potential to increase productivity,” she says.

• NZ Army – career progression

When it comes to looking for new roles, those surveyed reported the number one obstacle was not knowing what it’s like to work at an organisation.

Katherine says recruiters are aware of this barrier with 80 percent of workforce leaders www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

“Both recruiters and candidates cite company culture as one of the most important determinants in employer choice.

“Our experience shows those taken on through referral programmes stay longer than those sourced through job boards.

Like attracts like which aids a consistent and healthy culture and people who have referred someone feel valued, aiding retention.”

• Department of Conversation – pleasant work atmosphere (and gives back to society)

• Datacom – possibility of working remotely/from home.

14 | B&C - Issue #129

believing a strong employer brand has a significant impact on their ability to hire a great workforce.

“And enabling them to better manage their time is important given Kiwis are now working longer hours than other OCED countries according to the Productivity Commission.”

News

Better than ever The stunning restoration of Thornton Earl Manor took home both the 2020 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Award for the Residential Multi-Unit Dwelling category and the 2020 TIDA Designer Renovation of the Year Award.

Designed by AO Architecture director Michael John, the restoration and alterations of the manor blends modernisation while maintaining the integrity of the building in its language and character.

Sited on the Port Hills of early Christchurch, Thornton Earl Manor was on a large parcel of

innovative approach to restoring a heritage building with the possibility of a conversion into multiple apartments.

Extensive interior works enabled this smart reconfiguration that had to meet the challenges posed by the need for fire separation and privacy.

Originally designed and built by the distinguished England brothers of Christchurch the manor has now been brought back to its former grandeur. land which included an orchard, glass houses, gardener’s cottage, servants’ quarters, tennis court and substantial gardens.

Originally designed and built by the distinguished England brothers of Christchurch the manor has now been brought back to its former grandeur.

A totally unexpected entry for this category, the Thornton Earl Manor project attracted the ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Award judges’ unanimous agreement for its

The designer’s careful consideration for the building’s heritage nature has successfully resulted in an exceptional renovation reflecting its original style.

The restoration saves and celebrates heritage in post-quake Christchurch, proposes an innovative, multi-unit approach in restoration and poses the possibility of living in a unique and prestigious location a bit more accessible.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 15

News

Te Waihanga consulting on major changes to New Zealand’s infrastructure planning and delivery The New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, Te Waihanga, is proposing an overhaul of the way New Zealand’s infrastructure is planned, prioritised and built.

Te Waihanga chief executive Ross Copland says a consultation document He Tūāpapa ki te Ora, Infrastructure for a Better Future sets a proposed direction for a 30-Year Infrastructure Strategy, which is being developed.

"New Zealand is facing some huge challenges.

As our cities age many of the infrastructure networks that support them are nearing end of life, often at the same time.

“Add to that the need to redesign our fossilfuelled energy system, improve water quality, relieve our congested towns and cities and build the new houses we need for a growing population, there is a lot to do. This is going to require bold, decisive action, starting now," Ross says.

business leaders and communities about the issues and opportunities they experience and what they suggest needs to change in order to provide world-class infrastructure here in Aotearoa."

Infrastructure for a Better Future also draws on research and the priorities people shared through Te Waihanga’s Aotearoa 2050 engagement campaign and sets out options for how better infrastructure can enhance the wellbeing of New Zealanders.

Ross is appealing to New Zealanders to have their say; "This is an amazing opportunity for New Zealanders to tell Te Waihanga, the Infrastructure Commission, what you want to see in your 30-year strategy”.

enhancing the National Policy Statement on Urban Development, national standardisation of planning rulebooks and a consistent process to speed up rezoning for residential density.

• A major projects leadership academy to raise capability in both government and industry • Better pricing of existing and new infrastructure services, including for urban development, water, transport, and to support the transition to Net Zero Carbon 2050.

The consultation document sets out goals for a New Zealand with a productive, carbonneutral economy, affordable homes, reliable travel and safe and healthy communities.

Infrastructure decisions would be guided by the Treaty of Waitangi and in partnership with Māori.

• Congestion charging in Auckland to improve urban accessibility and begin to plan for congestion charging in cities other than Auckland.

Specific proposals include:

• Reviewing local government’s role in infrastructure, including local authority boundaries.

"New Zealand is world leading in so many ways but our infrastructure is holding us back.

• Rigorous and transparent cost-benefit analyses on all major public infrastructure projects to ensure value for money.

“We have been speaking to infrastructure providers, central and local government,

• A more responsive planning system to meet our housing needs, by accelerating and

• Empower cities to approve congestion charging by removing legislative barriers.

• Greater use of open data in infrastructure, to enable the development of ‘digital twins’ in public sector infrastructure and the use of artificial intelligence for activities such as consenting.

K J Morgan Plumbing Ltd 11 Purkiss Street, P O Box 925, BLENHEIM 7240 t: 03 578 0060 e: info@morganplumbing.co.nz 16 | B&C - Issue #129

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

• The potential for an Asset Management Team to take on infrastructure responsibilities from government agencies that are not well equipped.

• Investigating the potential for offshore renewable power generation.

Te Waihanga general manager strategy, Geoff Cooper says it’s not about building new things.

“We need to be thinking about how we make smarter and better decisions about the existing infrastructure we have. Most of the infrastructure we will be using in 30 years’ time is already around us.

"Infrastructure lasts a very long time, so when we are thinking about what we need from infrastructure it has to be both fit for purpose and fit for the future."

The 30-year infrastructure strategy must be provided to the Minister for Infrastructure and will be tabled in the House by April 2022. Public consultation on Infrastructure for a Better Future ran from 12 May to 24 June 2021.

PLUMBING DRAINLAYING GAS SUPPLIER & FITTING ROOFING www.morganplumbing.co.nz

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Issue #129 - B&C | 17

News

Strengthening the Licensed Building Practitioners scheme • Moving the process for renewing licences from the Building Act to the LBP Rules

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment MBIE has announced changes to the Licensed Buildings Practitioners (LBP) scheme to improve accountability, efficiency and fairness.

The reforms will see a more efficient building system, a lift in the quality of building work, and fairer outcomes if things go wrong.

MBIE Building Policy manager, Amy Moorhead says, “We are strengthening our occupational regulation of Licensed Building Practitioners so that New Zealanders can remain confident in LBPs and their work”.

MBIE will develop the code of ethics for Cabinet to consider in the coming months.

The Government has agreed to strengthen the LBP scheme to introduce a code of ethics, improve the structure of the complaints and discipline model to introduce independent investigators, and enhance the efficiency of the licensing administration process such as including a grace period for late renewals.

MBIE is currently seeking feedback from LBPs and those who engage with them on three key elements of the LBP scheme: LBPs’ ability to supervise non-LBPs undertaking restricted building work; licensing classes; and if the minimum standards of competency remain appropriate.

“The changes will help MBIE and the Building Practitioners Board ensure that LBPs are trained, skilled and accountable,” Amy says.

The following changes to the LBP scheme have been approved:

The review of the Licensed Building Practitioners scheme is part of a series of reforms to the building laws to lift the efficiency and quality of building work in New Zealand.

18 | B&C - Issue #129

Changes to the LBP scheme are part of a second phase of reforms which aim to lift the performance of building professionals and tradespeople, and hold accountable those who do not meet the standards set for them.

LBPs will have time before the launch of the code of ethics to understand what it will mean for them.

Introduce a code of ethics for LBPs to establish clear and concise behavioural requirements to manage poor ethical conduct.

Amend the following licensing processes in the Building Act to ease the administrative burden of the scheme, by:

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

• Allowing for the licence term to be set in the LBP Rules, and prescribing the licence term to be no longer than five years in the Building Act

• Providing that the public register can distinguish between a licence that is not renewed by the due date and a licence that has been suspended due to disciplinary reasons, to improve clarity on the public register to support consumers to make more informed choices • Allowing licences that are not renewed in a timely manner to be subject to a grace period, in which the LBP may renew the licence, and that this period will be specified in the LBP Rules • Making it so a licence that is cancelled or suspended for a disciplinary order will stay recorded on the public register for three years • Allowing the Board to take disciplinary action against LBPs who undertake restricted building work during the grace period.

Amend the complaints and disciplinary process in the Building Act to align with the Electricity Act 1992 to address issues around natural justice and fairness, by: • Separating the investigative and adjudicative functions in the complaints and disciplinary model by using independent investigators to undertake investigations, in order to clarify and strengthen the Board’s role as an impartial decision maker

• Granting the investigator powers to obtain and execute a warrant to enter land or premises for the purposes of investigating a complaint, where necessary for the investigation • Granting the investigator powers to require a person provide any document or information that may be required, where necessary for the purposes of investigating a complaint, by written notice • Allowing the Board to hold parts of meetings or hearings in private where it is appropriate due to the nature of the evidence • Allowing the Board to amend an order of the Board where an administrative error has been made • Allowing the Board to suspend an LBP’s licence should they fail to comply with a training order • Allowing the Board to take disciplinary action against LBPs for carrying out or supervising building work without a building consent when one is required

• Making it an offence to not comply with a notice to supply the required document or information • Improving the triaging powers of the LBP Registrar.

Funeral Directors Association NZ

Choosing a funeral director who’s right for you One thing that seems to surprise New Zealanders the most is that funeral directors in New Zealand do not have to legally meet any standards and there are no requirements to be able to act as a funeral director.

This means that anyone can decide they want to be a funeral director, pop down to the car auction to pick up a cheap station wagon, buy a cheap mobile phone, set up a free Facebook account, fill in a simple form for the local council and start trading.

They do not need to know anything about funerals or how to care for the deceased.

It seems crazy but it's true and is a real concern for those who want their loved one cared for respectfully and decently by trained and experienced professionals.

This is why it is so important to choose a funeral director that is a member of the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand (FDANZ).

To be a member of FDANZ, funeral homes have to adhere to a Code of Ethics, a Code of Professional Conduct, have NZQA recognised qualified staff and undertake ongoing professional development to keep their knowledge and skills up to date.

When you deal with a FDANZ member you will be given a written estimate of the costs based upon your individual requirements and a written contract so you know you will be getting exactly what you asked for.

They are your only real assurance of receiving a quality service.

FDANZ members undergo regular inspections, have access to technical resources for any unusual circumstances and 135 other member firms around the country to share information and best practice.

When you deal with a FDANZ member you will be given a written estimate of the costs based upon your individual requirements and a written contract so you know you will be getting exactly what you asked for.

They are your only real assurance of receiving a quality service.

What's more, even if something does not go well, all FDANZ members submit themselves to an independent complaints process.

By David Moger, Funeral Directors Association NZ CEO

They are confident that it will not be necessary but you have the added assurance of knowing the process is there just in case. This is an assurance of quality that is not available elsewhere.

Making the right choice of funeral director is critical in ensuring you have a meaningful funeral as part of a healthy grieving process.

Our members are your best assurance of that.

Visit www.fdanz.co.nz today to find a FDANZ member firm near you.

Compassion. Care. Conscious of Cost.

“At a diffficult time, know that you won’t pay a fortune for you and your loved one to be looked after with dignity and respect.”

Qualified and experienced Funeral Directors ALISTAIR BLACK

Funeral Director & Embalmer

Fixed Price Farewell Plans Available

(07) 282-7922 | (0800) 777-433

Email: info@baycremationcare.kiwi.nz | www.baycremationcare.kiwi.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 19

News

Let the question become the answer How to use coaching to build accountability and drive performance I often talk about the importance of developing a culture of coaching within organisations.

I do so because when leaders take a more ‘coachlike’ approach, it results in individuals, teams and organisations that can become self-improving.

By encouraging self-improvement across the board, they create a workplace that is not only fulfilling, challenging and more satisfying to be in, but is also more likely to be a high performing environment.

And who wouldn’t want that? In this article I want to focus on one of the most important aspects of the coach’s role, which is to develop accountability in individuals and teams throughout the organisation.

Recognising progress is a foundation to being accountable When people feel they are making progress and moving forward towards a goal, it is exciting and energising.

As one of the foundations for a strong culture, forward momentum and recognising progress gives you, your managers or team leaders, specific issues or areas you can coach to support the development of an accountable team.

Try these strategies to create organisationwide accountability: 1. Ensure that expected results are clear.

This is a basic need for any employee; to know what is expected of them at work. A good way to check whether you have made this clear is to ask your team ‘what are the 3-4 most important responsibilities or tasks you are expected to do to achieve in your role?’

2. Create simple protocols or routines that reinforce moving forward. A good example of this is to always have actions on meeting minutes that include who is responsible for the action, and by when the action should be complete.

20 | B&C - Issue #129

3. Make sure you and your leaders always follow through. This is really important, if your team sees their leader as someone who follows through, they will be more likely to do the same.

If you fail to do so, then your team is likely to follow your lead and also fail to follow through.

4. Create space for celebration of achievements, especially when these are linked to key results. For instance, if you and your team have goals you are trying to reach, make sure that when you reach them, you celebrate in some way.

Use a model to help people take ownership and responsibility There are many great models available that encourage individuals and teams to take responsibility for their work. One that I heard recently is OARBED, which stands for: • Ownership • Accountability • Responsibility • Blame • Excuses • Denial.

The first three are known as ‘above the line’ behaviours, whereas the bottom three are ‘below the line’.

People who focus on above the line behaviours tend to move forward more confidently and take pride in achieving their goals, whereas those below the line will generally need more support to help them move forward.

Using a framework such as this can help your team understand and moderate how they are holding themselves accountable for their results, all the while making it easier for team members to ask themselves, or one another the question ‘are you above or below the line?’

Let the question become the answer Once the foundations are in place, it is time to find ways to nudge and support your team to achieve the results they need to meet both their individual and overall goals.

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This is where coaching skills really come into play.

Generally, I would say the most important tool in a coach's arsenal is the quality of their question in a way, ‘the question becomes the answer’.

Rob Clarke CEO of Learning Architects

Being considered in how you use questions will drive people toward their own solutions, empower them to take action, and reinforce ownership.

Here are some tips for using questioning in different ways to help create accountability: 1. Schedule regular meetings with team members and focus on what they are working on, the challenges they face, and how you might support them. This creates a kind of ‘cadence of support’ so they know you will be inquiring into their progress regularly.

2. Inquire into the results from team members informally. Rather than asking ‘How are you going with xyz?’, which tends to elicit answers like ‘good’ or ‘fine’, try using phrases such as ‘show me what you’re working on’ or ‘I’d love to see that’ and encourage sharing in a gentle, non-confrontational way.

3. Include different types of coaching conversations into your week. For example, a quick connect to touch base, asking how people are will go a long way to knowing your people and showing them you care.

A slightly longer conversation to explore solutions to a current issue someone is facing helps identify development needs and solve immediate problems. Lastly, a longer more focussed conversation designed to dig deeper into an area of practice and support personal growth.

If you implement practices such as these, and make sure that you and your team leaders consistently follow through with them, you will see accountability improve.

It can be immediate, and sometimes it will take a little bit longer, but you will gain the advantage of forward momentum.

So, looking at your current situation, what can you do to be more coach-like and stimulate personal responsibility and create a culture of accountability in your organisation?

When people feel they are making progress and moving forward towards a goal, it is exciting and energising.

As one of the foundations for a strong culture, forward momentum and recognising progress gives you, your managers or team leaders, specific issues or areas you can coach to support the development of an accountable team.

Angus McMillan Concrete Ltd (AMC) When Angus McMillan Concrete Ltd (AMC) was formed in 1994, by Angus and Carol, there was only Angus and Carol in those first months, then the boy down the road.

Our company has taken may twists and turns over the last 27 years, settling to what we describe as what we do best.

What we do best is domestic and commercial work – box, prep, place and finish for all finishes of concrete along with a niche market of skateparks.

Skateparks have become our highlight, with us having completed around 14 to date.

These come in all sizes and shapes with the largest having been just completed at Maidstone Park in Upper Hutt. The small team that work on these really enjoy the challenge and the thrill of getting the project done to the highest standard possible.

One recent comment made is “This is concrete art”.

Skateparks have become our highlight, with us having completed around 14 to date.

We run all our own diggers, bobcats, concrete saws, and concrete pumps – all the gear to do many different concrete finishes and the gear and knowledge to revitalize concrete.

Revitalising concrete might mean a cement based (Cemcote) paint to be applied along with two coats of sealer, or an acid stain that is then sealed in or an overlay to a design of your choice.

Mrs Smith’s driveway is where we work the most; we enjoy seeing the transformation from the old/dirt/shingle area transformed into something that is very usable, and this may even include a new or extended patio.

Most new builds do not allow for the outdoor living space that us Kiwis enjoy.

Our team of 23 work hard to give you the customer an amazing experience and something you can treasure for a long time.

CONCRETE WITH A DIFFERENCE ■ Site Preparation ■ Commercial Concrete ■ Decorative Concrete ■ Specialised Concrete ■ Concrete Flooring ■ Drainage ■ SKateparks

Ph (06) 873 4428 SHOWROOM OPEN 8am - 4 pm | Weekdays 402 Victoria Street, Hastings

www.amc.nz

TL-2 Water Filled Road Barriers The Ricochet Safety Barrier is designed to have the greatest energy absorbing capability. This provides a greater degree of safety and a lower risk of injury with any vehicle impact.

The TL -2 water filled barriers are tested to ASSHTO MASH standard and are rated for TL-2 (70km/hr).

HIRE or PURCHASE - STOCKIST NZ WIDE CONTACT US TODAY 0800 668 534 | INFO@ADPLASNZ.COM WWW.ADVANTAGEPLASTICS.CO.NZ

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 21

News

Navigating your finances - tips from a veteran tradie April marks the start of a new financial year in New Zealand; a year we hope to navigate with more clarity than the one just passed.

If tackling the financial specifics of the year wasn’t already a timely and complex process, considering the wage subsidies and changing legislations enforced as a result of the pandemic can be that much more confusing.

However, mastering money and making the end of financial year reporting a more seamless process doesn’t have to feel so out of reach.

Seeking advice from a professional, staying on top of changing regulations and leveraging the right platforms will help business owners avoid the typical pitfalls that many fall victim to when trying to navigate the world of tax.

For those organising finances this year, here are a few common pitfalls to be mindful of.

The secret behind GST It’s not uncommon for small businesses to overlook the role they play in collecting taxes.

The nearly unavoidable GST – known as a consumption tax – is one that the end user is entitled to pay, with the role for businesses simply being to collect it and pass it on.

However, for small business owners with tight cash flow, it's easy to see that money as their own.

payroll to reliable online platforms to ensure this is taken care of properly.

A great way to avoid the mix up is by creating a bank account for solely transfering GST money into.

Prioritise regular invoicing

Typically, GST over the past year will be pretty consistent, making it easy to work out a weekly sum that can be put into the GST account each week. This will ensure that there’s always GST on hand to pay when it’s due.

PAYE and Holiday obligations Pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) tax and employee holiday pay are can easily be calculated incorrectly, causing serious implications by the end of the financial year.

This is, in large part, due to the fact that this money is considered part of an employee’s wage.

If paid incorrectly, it can be classified as theft.

Similar to creating a ‘GST-only’ account, a good way to stay on top of PAYE and holiday obligations is to work with an accountant to put the necessary funds away each pay cycle.

These funds will account for employees’ paid days off work including annual leave, public holidays, and sick days.

Given the large margin for error, more companies are opting to outsource their

What do we do?

EOFY is a great time to reflect on the overall reporting processes used in the previous year, and strategise on how best to approach the new year ahead.

By Dan Pollard, Founder, Fergus

A large part of this might lie within the overall cash collection and invoicing process. This holds especially true for small businesses in the trades sector.

As a rule of thumb, it is crucial to ensure that invoicing is completed on a daily basis. This will make the rest of the financial logistics, such as GST organisation and holiday and PAYE planning, much easier to stay on top of.

Tax management for small businesses is no easy feat, and has the potential to become quite complicated when factoring in the changing government subsidies, employee wages and business requirements.

However, organising finances more proactively throughout the year can prove beneficial in the long-term.

That mindset, coupled with the right tools and financial experts will ensure that business owners aren’t entirely overwhelmed by the time tax season rolls around.

About Dan Pollard, founder of Fergus job management software for trades and service businesses.

Plumber turned tech entrepreneur, Dan launched Fergus in 2014. Having done the hard yards as a plumber for over 20 years, Dan was determined to come up with an easier way to manage the end-to-end operations of his trades business.

STEP UP TO THE TASK WITH

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Kyle, Director Ph: 027 306 0379 E: admin@summitplumbing.co.nz

Call Nic on 027 526 0728 info@kapiticoastscaffolding.co.nz www.kapiticoastscaffolding.co.nz

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Safety Nets NZ

The best in safety nets Safety Nets NZ is a preferred safety-netting specialist for supplying all your safety-netting requirements.

Workplace falls are one of the most common causes of injury within the New Zealand construction industry and the easiest thing you can do to mitigate that risk is to choose a trustworthy provider of safety net equipment.

From large commercial and industrial sites to residential home builds, Safety Nets NZ’s fall protection systems are suitable for a range of circumstances to meet your every heightsafety concern.

Supported by a nationwide network of installers, the company is able to offer its solutions to businesses nationwide.

It has over 600,000sqm of nets available for use in different regions, which is the equivalent to more than 4,000 house-lots of nets.

As an industry leader the company has been instrumental in developing and improving industry standards. This includes assisting in the writing the Code of Practice, and together with a team from the Massey University School of Engineering and Advanced Technology, developing a facility to test its safety nets and engineer the only fully independently certified and compliant safety net fall protection system for use on residential construction projects in New Zealand.

From large commercial and industrial sites to residential home builds, Safety Nets NZ’s fall protection systems are suitable for a range of circumstances to meet your every height-safety concern.

The Health and Safety at Work Act (2015) states that all PCBUs have an obligation to ensure the health and safety of themselves and others. The act requires all PCBUs to ensure that any system that they are using is without health and safety risk so far as is reasonably practicable.

There is a “duty to test” placed on all PCBUs to ensure and verify that they are certain that the systems, materials, and more that they use are fit for purpose, and capable of performing as expected, without risk to health and safety of the workforce.

By using the systems developed by Safety Nets NZ, which have been independently tested and certified by the team at Massey University, the company’s clients can rest assured that they have discharged their duties in regards to their obligations of the Act. The company has continued to develop the stable of services that it offers to include a bespoke protection system for use with the removal/replacement of existing roof sheeting on large warehouses.

Our clients’ business processes have been able to continue on unaffected as their roof has been replaced.

The combination of safety net, debris net and plastic sheeting forms a “sandwich” that is proving very popular with clients who are looking to replace aged roofs on their properties.

The system has successfully been established on numerous projects throughout the country with minimal disruption to existing factory processes, meaning that our clients’ business processes have been able to continue on unaffected as their roof has been replaced.

The system has subsequently been further developed to deal with the removal of asbestos contaminated roofing materials.

It is the aim of Safety Nets NZ to offer the most professional, practical and efficient safety net installation solution in the country, with delivery of the highest possible level of customer service being its main focus.

• Safety industry pioneer Safety Nets NZ has developed a fall through protection system that has been independently tested and certified by Massey University.

• By using our system you have the comfort of knowing that as PCBU, you have taken all reasonably practicable steps to ensure that the system you are using is fit for purpose and capable of performing as expected without risk to the health and safety of your workforce.

• Are you re-roofing an industrial property? If so ask us about our bespoke debris and asbestos containment, fall protection system which enables your work processes to continue uninterrupted whilst the roof is replaced.

• 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 #129 - B&C | 23

News

The origins of, and strategies to deal with, stress in construction An industry study conducted by Site Safe and Massey University’s School of Built Environment has investigated the negative effects of work-related stress on productivity, and physical and emotional health of construction workers in New Zealand.

The paper, which is the first collaboration under the research Memorandum of Understanding between both organisations, highlights several critical factors that create undue stress among construction workers.

Dr Gregory Chawynski, agree that successful resolution of the issues identified in the paper is dependent on active and willing engagement from those in positions of authority involved in construction.

It identifies potential mitigation approaches to reducing stressors, as suggested by workers participating in the study.

This extends to well-informed clients, their consultants, and other parties that equally share project risks as principal drivers.

Site Safe chief executive, Brett Murray, says that as well as serving as a confirmatory piece, the paper gives insight into the thought patterns and voices of frontline workers who are often unheard in an industry fraught with danger and unsafe practices.

"As a recommendation, the Construction Sector Accord’s guiding principles could be made enforceable through its transformation plan.

"We operate in a high-risk industry and trying to bring about a culture of change within health and safety isn’t going to happen overnight.

"By talking directly to workers who face these dangers every day, we can better understand what needs to be done to create safer construction sites."

Massey University’s researchers for the paper, Dr Andries (Hennie) van Heerden and

“As it currently stands, this would be difficult because it is a voluntary, collaboration-based initiative promoted by the private and the government."

Research participants indicated that lack of collaboration, poor communication, and unrealistic timeframes and budgets on the job were leading to corner-cutting, and health and safety practices being compromised.

In some cases, these self-initiated stress minimisation strategies were not the result of conscious decision-making.

High uncertainty in job processes and unclear responsibilities, particularly when multiple contractors were on-site, often led to shortcomings and unsafe behaviour and conflict.

It isn’t just young workers new to the industry either. There appears to be no increasing tolerance to stress over time, with experienced workers of 20-or-more years no more immune to workplace stress than their less experienced counterparts.

A supportive working environment, greater empowerment of employees in decisionmaking processes on-site, and regular workload allocation reviews were common themes in the responses, cited by many as ways to reduce stress.

Brett concedes that not every suggestion is a workable solution, however the responses and information in the study form a good basis to progress the discussion further.

"The results of the study clearly reflect the negative influence of stress brought about by an inefficient contracting and supply chain process that creates pressures that are often unable to be resolved by those most impacted.

"That issue has been recognised by initiatives such as the Construction Sector Accord and is, in part, why it is so important that the Accord delivers tangible results."

The Accord was raised by some study participants as a platform through which issues surrounding unethical behaviours causing added stress - like being asked to do something unethical on a project - could be addressed.

There is a strong upside to the industry effectively managing stressors in the workplace, according to Brett. "We believe that looking after our workers and creating a safer industry can improve productivity, profitability and the industry’s long-term appeal as a career prospect.

"The industry is already inherently stressful, so we need to do everything we can do ensure we’re not adding to that.

"We want to get people home safe to their whanau every day, both physically and mentally and we will look at all avenues to work towards this."

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Partnership Bringing Mental Health Awareness and Training to the Construction Industry Site Safe and St John formed a partnership to develop a new Mental Health First Aid in Construction course which is bringing much needed support to the construction industry, a high-risk industry for mental wellbeing.

After commissioning a 2019 report on suicided in construction with BRANZ, Site Safe began looking at ways to understand

With successful trials run in Auckland and Wellington in late March, participants were in praise of the outcomes of the course.

When asked about the value that the course provided, Wayne, a construction worker who participated in the Auckland trial, said that it was very informative and he learned a lot in the subject of mental health.

and offer practical assistance to those in the industry dealing with mental health issues.

“It provided a lot more knowledge around how to identify and deal with persons in need of assistance.”

Site Safe Chief Executive, Brett Murray, says it was a logical step to take after the release of the report.

“There was a real ‘what next?’ question, in us figuring out how to help our industry deal with the mental health issues that the report had clearly highlighted.

“We have partnered with St John to develop this course to tackle some of these issues head on.”

MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID IN CONSTRUCTION

The course will equip attendees with the skills and knowledge to support their own mental health and assist others to do the same, with a particular focus on scenarios within the construction industry.

Brett Murray is confident of a positive industry response and looks forward to further course developments in future.

“My major focus for Site Safe as an industry leader and membership organisation is to work alongside the industry to develop highvalue products that address key issues the industry is facing.

“Mental health is certainly one of those, and this course is totally aligned to that goal.”

If you or someone you know needs support, or someone to talk to, try: • 1737 – Mental Health Foundation support service. Free call or text any time • 0800 111 315 – MATES in Construction • 0800 543 354 – Lifeline (0800 LIFELINE) • 0800 376 633 – Youthline • 0800 726 666 – Samaritans

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Issue #129 - B&C | 25

Oakleys Plumbing

Oakleys Plumbing Supplies The global pandemic has changed the face of the home market, instigating great opportunities in design and construction.

Delivery times and access to products may be affected but the desire for the comforts of home and the ability to innovate far outweigh the negatives.

In the past year many international Kiwis have returned home and New Zealand Kiwis adjusted to life without travel.

The result is a building boom in the domestic renovation and building market, with flow on effects into the commercial and industrial construction as more jobs were created and places of business created.

Plumbing supplies market leader, Oakleys Plumbing Supplies, reports the demand for quality plumbing systems has never been higher.

Oakleys has trade supply partnerships with reputable companies from around New Zealand and internationally.

In the domestic construction market there is a clear emphasis on beautifying the most functional spaces of the home: bathrooms.

They are a place of relaxation and escape, a haven to pamper oneself and revitalise and are being paid increased attention during design phases.

Oakleys Plumbing Supplies showroom consultants report that current customers are not shy about achieving the best results they can, with the demand for top-quality bathroomware higher than ever.

People are not only building for function, there is an aspect of comfort and pride in their projects, too.

Oakleys’ commitment to both New Zealand manufacturers and the best of the European suppliers, ensures customers are never without choice of product.

The variety of systems available in today’s market ensures all plumbers and tradespeople have access to the system that best suits the home’s setting and special features.

Popular amongst homeowners at the moment are tapware in living metals which patina with age, and concrete basins and baths with their raw beauty and anchoring affect.

Commercial buildings present a unique set of requirements, however Oakleys have the plumbing systems best able to meet these specific requirements, including specialist knowledge in the specification of medical institutions, educational facilities and food handling operations.

German designed thermostatically controlled shower systems are in demand, so you never have to worry about consistency in water temperature again, as are intelligent toilets which incorporate bidet systems and therefore an environment of increased hygiene.

Oakleys has a talented team of consultants amongst its four stores, who not only have encyclopaedic knowledge of bathroomware products, but also offer design services, spatial planning advice, colour consultancies for builders and homeowners.

Oakleys has a talented team of consultants amongst its four stores, who not only have encyclopaedic knowledge of bathroomware products, but also offer design services, spatial planning advice, colour consultancies for builders and homeowners.

As a result of increased demand in the bathroom industry, the Oakleys Group is in the midst of a showroom rejuvenation programme.

Both the Nelson and Cromwell stores have their state-of-the-art showrooms open with Dunedin’s renovation currently in design and Christchurch’s to follow.

Designed by award-winning designer Davinia Sutton, the showrooms introduce a standard rarely seen in New Zealand showrooms before.

Davinia has created a raft of concept bathrooms showcasing the company’s amazing product lines and teamed them with impressive lighting, and beautiful tile, wallpaper and paint choices to showcase exactly what is achievable in today’s bathroom design world.

The showrooms feature kitchen and laundry products, extensive tapware collections, and working displays where you can test products before you buy.

26 | B&C - Issue #129

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Oakleys’ dedication to design, workmanship and service has been evident since the company was established in 1875.

When Henry Oakley and John Morgan Taylor founded Taylor & Oakley Plumbers Iron and Tinplate Workers, Gasfitters and Bellhangers, Christchurch was a newly established city and their products were the preferred fittings by reputable plumbers.

Workmanship and service was given the utmost attention. So much so that the company won awards for its work, including a gold medal at the 1906 NZ International Exhibition for its pumice concrete washtubs.

The company was people orientated with regular picnics for the staff and their families, and a company rugby team, which was competitive in corporate games, received regular column inches in the local newspaper.

In 1919 Taylor and Oakley parted ways, with Oakley & Sons remaining in Tuam Street.

The company was described as a plumbers' merchant, sheet metal workers, tinsmiths, and manufacturers of hollow-ware, spouting, downpipes, canisters, pumice boilers and concrete tubs.

What’s more they specialise in more than just bathrooms, with home heating being another string to their bow.

Now 145 years later, the company proudly maintains its locally owned and operated status with the owner of each branch found on the shop floor every day.

The company are agents for Rinnai indoor gas fires, Rinnai heat pumps and ducting systems, and Escea indoor and outdoor gas fires.

This dedication to locals helping locals is at the forefront of the exceptional Oakleys’ service.

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Issue #129 - B&C | 27

Quality Cut & Core

Experts called to deconstruct the Old Māngere Bridge, Auckland Earlier this year, Quality Cut & Core (QCC), specialists in the deconstruction of concrete structures, was the appointed Demolition Contractor by McConnell Dowell for the removal of the Old Māngere Bridge in Auckland, a Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency project earlier this year.

QCC utilised their custom designed slurry catchment pontoons, which float in the water underneath the cut location. This prevents slurry from entering the marine environment, keeping sea life in the harbour unharmed.

QCC worked closely with the Client, McConnell Dowell, to develop a practical, efficient, and cost-effective demolition design using a ‘cut and crane’ method.

On the Old Māngere Bridge Replacement project, QCC allocated a project manager, highly skilled wire saw operators, floor saw operators, a truck driver and hired three general labourers from the Māngere region.

A cut and crane method on temporary staging was chosen rather than the use of a barge to ensure the structure was removed in a controlled, safe manner.

This method also resulted in full compliance with the resource consent environmental conditions.

Reliable resourcing is an imperative part of successfully completing a project of this size.

QCC, a New Zealand-owned family business, completes projects all over New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, and are mindful of hiring locals to assist the communities’ economy wherever they are and providing upskilling opportunities.

QCC owns the most efficient range of cutting equipment in New Zealand, and had wire saws, a custom-designed pile cutter, floor saws, and multiple core drills mobilised for this project.

Cutting piles underwater at seabed level typically presents challenges to contractors including the need for Divers.

The bridge has 17 spans and 60 piles to remove, comprising of over 6,000 tonnes of concrete.

QCC developed an underwater pile cutting method that successfully removes the piles at seabed level, with a cut time of just 25 minutes and eliminates the need for divers.

With the bridge stretching across the Manukau Harbour, environmental control was of paramount importance to QCC and McConnell Dowell when developing the demolition design.

This is an innovative technique that is new to the industry and QCC are proud to have successfully implemented this.

Director James Duthie says “Working with McConnell Dowell on the Old Māngere Bridge Removal Project has been a pleasure.

They are a fantastic client to work for and there has been great team morale onsite.

We look forward to working with McConnell Dowell on future projects.”

QCC, a New Zealand-owned family business, completes projects all over New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, and are mindful of hiring locals to assist the communities’ economy wherever they are and providing upskilling opportunities.

Quality Cut & Core successfully removes wharf in Vanuatu during COVID-19 travel restrictions In April 2021, QCC were appointed the demolition contractors by McConnell Dowell for the removal of a concrete wharf located in Port Vila, Vanuatu.

The demolition design developed by QCC removed the need for temporary works and reduced the original demolition programme by half, to just a few weeks.

Due to COVID, a site visit prior to design was unfeasible, and QCC’s staff allocated to the project were required to quarantine in Vanuatu for 14 days, and again in Auckland upon arrival into the country.

It took a detailed amount of planning between QCC and McConnell Dowell, to ensure the project was set to run smoothly.

The concrete wharf was successfully removed using a cut and crane method and included the removal of 500mm diameter concrete filled steel piles cut at seabed level.

Old Mangere Bridge Site, Auckland 28 | B&C - Issue #129

Concrete Pile cut at seabed level - Old Mangere Bridge

As well as ensuring adequate labour for the project, equipment selection is also key.

QCC was responsible for cutting and removing the 280-metre-long concrete bridge, cutting piles at seabed level, and carting the material to a disposal facility.

Each span is broken up into eight bridge beam lifts, one headstock and four pile lifts – with the cut sections being placed onto the temporary staging for preparation and cartage to a disposal facility.

Wharf Removal - Vanuatu

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

QCC freighted equipment to Vanuatu including a wire saw, floor saw, autofeed core drills and slurry vacuums.

Custom designed wire was implemented to ensure successful cutting of the steel piles and the project was completed within programme and without variations.

Working in the Pacific presents exciting working environments that Quality Cut & Core staff are thankful to have the opportunity to take part in.

QCC foreman Nick Flanagan says “This project was unique in terms of the Quarantine requirements upon arrival and staying focused was important so that when we were able to get started onsite, we were prepared and mentally ready.

“It’s been a pleasure to work here; the locals are really nice; accommodation has been great and working with McConnell Dowell has again been a success.”

For further information, please visit www.qualitycut.co.nz, or contact QCC’s Head Office on (03) 344 1469.

Quality Cut & Core

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Issue #129 - B&C | 29

News

Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act working well A review by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has found that the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act is working well to ensure that sanitary plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying is done properly in the interests of public health and safety.

as installing, repairing or replacing toilets, showers and waste water systems are left to those who are qualified to perform them.”

Other recommendations agreed include further work to develop a pathway to selfcertification for plumbers and drainlayers, minor changes to complaints and disciplinary processes and definitions under the Act, and changes to ensure the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Board has the right mix of skills and experience.

“Sanitary plumbing work has certain health and safety risks, both to the people performing the jobs and to the people who use the building.

The Government has agreed to minor recommendations made by the Report, to enhance the effectiveness of the Act.

“By making these changes the government is giving New Zealanders greater confidence that the people carrying out this type of work understand the risks involved and how to minimise them.”

“While the review found that overall the system is working well, the proposed changes will ensure that restrictions on plumbing work are proportionate to the risks to public safety,” MBIE Building Policy manager Amy Moorhead says.

The proposed changes include repealing the government’s ability to make exemptions to the registration and licencing requirements for performing restricted plumbing work in certain parts of the country.

Exemptions that allow unlicensed people to work under supervision will also be removed,

although further work will see a new licence class developed to formally recognise their skills and experience.

“People who want to install their own washing machines and dishwashers, or replace or repair taps, will still be able to do so,” Amy says.

“The proposed changes will not affect the kind of work that is considered lower risk, and that homeowners can undertake themselves.

“However, the proposed changes agreed

by Cabinet will ensure that riskier jobs that require specialist skills and experience such

The Review of the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act is part of a series of reforms to the building laws to lift the efficiency and quality of building work in New Zealand and provide fairer outcomes if things go wrong.

A draft Bill for these proposed changes is expected to be introduced in early 2022 which will then be referred to a Select Committee for review and to seek public feedback on the impacts of the proposals.

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News

Civil Contractors' conference expected to be biggest yet Registrations for New Zealand’s civil contracting event of the year have opened with conference hosts, Civil Contractors NZ, promising an exciting programme packed full of expert speakers, masterclasses and networking opportunities as well as an expo floor packed with the latest civil construction equipment and technology.

More than 600 people are expected to attend The Contractors Conference 2021 in Wellington on July 29-30, to make new connections and keep up with developments and trends affecting the civil construction industry.

“This premier event is the perfect opportunity for civil contractors to hear from some of our country’s key decision-makers and find the networks, knowledge and equipment they need to get the job done,” says Civil Contractors NZ chief executive Peter Silcock.

A trio of masterclasses on leadership for young professionals, business succession plans and meeting client expectations under new broader procurement outcomes will be one of the highlights of this year’s conference, which is being held at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa on Wellington’s waterfront.

“These will be three interactive sessions to give young professionals, business owners and leaders the practical skills and knowledge they need to succeed,” Peter says.

Former All Black Piri Weepu and equity and human rights advocate Vanisha Dhiru are guest speakers at the event.

Mr Weepu will speak about the challenges of being ‘Mr Fixit’ and how we can nurture leaders in a high-performance culture, while Ms Dhiru will provide a thought-provoking session on the expectations, honour and burden of representing a minority.

1

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure Grant Robertson and National leader Judith Collins will also be at the event to give political insight and comment, and there will also be panel discussions on pivotal industry issues from the client and contractor perspectives.

Social highlights include the Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards Dinner and Brian Perry Civil ‘Stars of Moving Pictures’ Themed Dinner.

After the conference on 31 July, there will be an optional tour of some of Wellington’s civil construction projects.

The first CCNZ conferences were held in Wellington in the mid-1940s for contractors to meet and discuss issues of pivotal importance to the industry. More than 75 years on, the conference remains the peak event for civil contractors.

2 1. Gilbert Enoka speaking at the 2018 conference.

2. Attendees at the awards dinner held during the 2019 conference.

To register for the conference, visit The Contractors Conference website at: www.concon.nz

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Issue #129 - B&C | 31

News

Red hot

The subdivision preaching affordability in the sizzling Queenstown property market

By Claire Wright

Housing prices are hitting an all-time high up and down the country, according to recent data released by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ).

Median prices for residential property across New Zealand increased by 24.3 percent from $665,000 in March 2020 to $826,300 in March 2021 – this is another record high for the country.

On top of that, 12 out of 16 regions reached record median prices, as well as 32 districts.

Despite Otago being one of the hardest hit regions by the COVID-19 pandemic – with Queenstown taking a hit of 50 percent reduction in income for local economies, according to Tourism Minister Stuart Nash – the housing market is red hot with no look of cooling down.

Otago as a whole has seen housing prices increase by 30.8 percent from $535,000 in March 2020 to $700,000 in March 2021. The Queenstown-Lakes District housing market specifically has reached record highs, breaking market trends around New Zealand, with a median house price of $1,185,000.

REINZ states that 34.8 percent of houses sold in New Zealand of March this year have been sold for over a million dollars.

CoreLogic senior property economist, Kelvin Davidson said in a February market the physical supply shortage could be the strongest reason the market rebounded so quickly.

The rebound in values around Queenstown centred on suburbs like Arthurs Point, Fernhill and Kelvin Heights.

That’s why the two major subdivisions, Jack’s Point and Hanley’s Farm, in Queenstown – positioned between Jack’s Point and Frankton – are getting scooped up so quickly.

One of the subdivisions, Hanley’s Farm, is located on a three-kilometre stretch of land that sits between Lake Wakatipu, Deer Park Heights and the Remarkables.

During the past three to four years, the developers of Hanley’s Farm, RCL has been marketing the sections towards first and second homebuyers – mainly young couples looking to start a family, or who already have a family of their own.

It’s close to the Remarkables Primary School, Kingsview School and other childcare facilities.

It’s within easy reach of Remarkables Park and the Five Mile shopping precinct.

Bayleys Queenstown real estate agent, Jimmy Allen says RCL has not wavered from trying to provide affordable sections to people starting off in Queenstown. It’s something in the location. It's nice and sunny and warm.

Some of Queenstown’s best views make up Hanley’s Farm’s backyard, such as the

Builders on board – Hanley’s Farm subdivision • Golden Homes • David Reid Homes • GJ Gardner Homes

breathtaking alpine peaks of The Remarkables mountain range. Kelvin Heights to the north provides a ‘gentle barrier’ between Hanley’s Farm and Frankton.

When the soon-to-be-completed school at Hanley’s Farm, Te Kura Whakatipu o Kawarau, and Jack’s Point Village commercial development are finished, the area would become an almost self-sufficient township.

This would mean that the community is looking to put down tight-knit roots, where everyone is looking out for their neighbours.

“The demand is out there, obviously, for a product that's been well designed by RCL. It shows what they're providing is what the market needs and why.”

Jimmy says Bayleys Queenstown has sold around 750-800 properties so far for RCL and that 300 of those sales have been since late August.

Approximately 400 houses in the Hanley’s Farm subdivision have been either completed or under construction.

This subdivision, providing affordable sections in an almost too-hot-to-touch marketplace, comes at a time when homeownership in New Zealand is at its lowest point in 70 years.

Renters United, a renter’s advocacy group fighting for fairer rental control laws, states that over a third of New Zealanders are renting.

Other subdivisions in the area under construction include the proposed 272-section Woolshed Road subdivision, which would be the fourth in the area, the proposed Coneburn special housing area (632 sections) and Jacks Point. Hanley’s Farm is projected at 1,750 sections once completed.

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News

Housing construction costs are on the rise Housing construction costs surged 1.3 percent over Q1 2021, according to CoreLogic’s Cordell Housing Index Price (CHIP).

The CHIP report measures the rate of change of construction costs within the residential market and covers freestanding and semidetached single and two storey homes.

The March quarterly growth is the highest rate of construction cost inflation since Q1 2019, and far above the 0.6 percent and 0.4 percent increases throughout Q3 and Q4 2020 respectively.

CoreLogic’s chief property economist, Kelvin Davidson, says “We may now be seeing the clear impact of a busy construction sector flowing through to faster cost rises.

“Q1 bounced up to 1.3 percent growth and early indicators are that we will see a continuation of this growth in our Q2 report.

Annual residential construction cost inflation is also back on the rise, up to around 3.3 percent in the March quarter after falling to under three percent in Q4 2020 from a peak of 6.9 percent in Q4 2017.

“The construction sector is proving to be a real bright spot in the economy; especially the residential segment.

Q1 bounced up to 1.3 percent growth and early indicators are that we will see a continuation of this growth in our Q2 report.

“New dwelling consents annually are tracking at their highest levels on record. Our teams are also hearing through their research and conversations about increasing material and labour costs coming down the pipe as there are shortages and substitutions, and the expectation is for this to have a continuing impact on the cost of building in the near future,” Kelvin says.

properties could well add further demand to the sector and place more pressure on capacity and costs.

When combined with potential COVID-related shipping problems, and also the recent publicity about shortages of structural timber domestically, the potential for faster and greater cost rises is accentuated.

For more information or to read the report, visit: www.corelogic.co.nz/reports/cordellhousing-index-price-chip.

CoreLogic researches, tracks and reports on construction price data which flows through its Cordell product solutions to help businesses make better decisions, estimate rebuild and insurance quotes easily and, ultimately, appropriate risk effectively.

“The Government’s recent tax policy changes which incentivise investors to target new-build

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Issue #129 - B&C | 33

Mental Health Awareness

Mates in Construction The suicide prevention programme striving to halt deaths in the construction sector Warning: This article discusses sensitive topics such as suicide.

Mates in Construction has only been in existence since November 2019, but the industry response to the implementation of our suicide prevention programmes has been overwhelmingly positive.

People may have poor mental health due to depression or anxiety, but the stress that comes from life's daily struggles is a reason that people consider taking their own life.

Other things that move people towards the tipping point are being unable to cope with bullying, alcohol, drugs, a poor lifestyle, societal factors including poverty or low education and financial pressures.

New Zealand is very good at postvention and looking at what happens after a suicide.

One of the most positive moves in recent years is a massive improvement in suicide awareness.

We all gather together to support whānau and the people who have been affected by the suicide, but what we aren't so good at going back to the beginning and determining what would have helped prevent suicide in the first place.

We see better messaging about talking to someone when you are struggling or helping your mates if they are struggling.

Confronting the issue The construction industry still has the highest rates of suicide out of any sector – these numbers have no sign of slowing down According to a Newshub investigation conducted earlier this year from information released under the Official Information Act by the Chief Coroner, it shows 161 construction workers, all but one of them men, may have died from suicide from 2017 to 2020.

The average, 53 deaths per year, is an increase from the ten years preceding that, with an average of 30 deaths per year.

The Mates in Construction programme is making headway by opening up the conversation about mental health – unfortunately, this change isn’t happening fast enough to change lives, said Mates in Construction CEO, Victoria McArthur in an interview with Radio New Zealand.

Continued on page #36 >

MATES is a suicide prevention programme and addresses a worker's struggles early and connects them to help.

The 'tough guy' culture in the construction industry is part of the problem and leads people to hide their thoughts when they are struggling because of the stigma associated with poor mental wellness and asking for help.

Everyone has heard the phrase 'take a concrete pill and toughen up.' That attitude is not only prevalent in our industry; it's a societal issue that we have had for a very long time and leads to the saying 'real men don't talk'.

Ninety-nine percent of the people that we lose to suicide in the construction sector are men who are stoic in their behaviour and recognised as being the guys who do the hard yards.

The tough-guy image of workers in our industry is preventing many people who require help opening up to workmates, family or professionals.

Poor mental health or mental illness is not always a predisposition to someone taking their life.

Fifty-two percent of those who we lose to suicide had no known history of mental illness.

What we do know is suicide can be caused by being unable to cope with whatever is going on in your life at that time.

MATES suicide prevention programme addresses a worker's struggles early and connects them to help.

Proud ambassadors of mental health & wellbeing within the construction, energy, and professional industries.

Honoured founding associate partner of Mates in Construction NZ. Labour Only Construction • HV Power Contracting • Offshore Technical Support • Recruitment 44F Crooks Road, Highbrook, Auckland | 0800 AIS 001 | www.aisltd.co.nz 34 | B&C - Issue #129

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Mental Health Awareness

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Issue #129 - B&C | 35

Mental Health Awareness

Need help and support? - Check out these resources.

Construction crew building a new building in Christchurch to rebuild Christchurch after the earthquakes.

This behaviour is essential and fits well with the Mates in Construction industry programmes.

However, there is one further step that is needed to make the prevention model work, and that is how do you access support services at an early stage.

When we go onto a worksite, we run a General Awareness Training programme for all workers.

We talk about suicide, the effect that it's having on the industry, and then look at the things that may be contributing to a change in worker's behaviour.

Then we move on to one of the essential parts of our training. Once behavioural changes have been identified that may point toward a mate is struggling or having thoughts around suicide, we need to know what to do next.

Anxiety New Zealand 0800 ANXIETY (0800 269 4389

Shine (domestic violence) 0508 744 633

Depression Helpline 0800 111 757

Suicide Crisis Helpline 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)

Kidsline 0800 54 37 54 (0800 kidsline) for young people up to 18 years of age. Open 24/7

Supporting Families in Mental Illness 0800 732 825

Lifeline 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland Need to Talk?

Call or text 1737

MATES talks about how to navigate that path and gives them the tools to understand how to get there. MATES is building capacity on-site with a whole-of-community approach.

Samaritans 0800 726 666

What's Up 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787) Women's Refuge 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)

Rural Support Trust 0800 787 254 (0800 RURAL HELP)

We make sure everyone has the skills and tools in their toolbelt to help a mate or seek help themselves.

thelowdown.co.nz email team@thelowdown.co.nz or free text 5626

Youthline 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat.

Shakti Community Council 0800 742 584

This article was kindly provided by Mates in Construction.

Transforming environments into quality living, working and recreational spaces.

Civil Construction Infrastructure

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Mental Health Awareness

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Issue #129 - B&C | 37

Mental Health Awareness

Proud to be an Associate Partner of Mates in Construction A privately owned civil works company based in the Selwyn District.

Built on hard work, integrity and innovation, we have been producing outstanding results in Canterbury for over 40 years.

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We are involved in a variety of disciplines, including: Earthworks, Civil, Site Works, Utilities, 3 Waters, Rural and Specialist.

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www.johnstoncivil.nz 38 | B&C - Issue #129

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Next Edition Kitchens

Next Edition Kitchens Whangarei kitchen design is what Next Edition Kitchens is all about. Locally owned and operated by Ryan Bourke, with a strong team of experienced kitchen designers and custom cabinet makers behind them, you can be assured that we’re all about kitchens!

Here at Next Edition Kitchens we have a special recipe, the one to design and build fabulous kitchens! Whether your kitchen is a chef’s dream, a stunning showpiece or simply the heart of your home, we can help you personalise this magical space to suit to your changing needs.

Our passion lies in helping to keep the Northland economy going. We have a strong focus on Whangarei & Northland kitchen design. This is reflected in our factory location at 50 Kioreroa Road.

Being part of our town’s history helps our creativity to flow when it comes to creating dream kitchens, custom laundries, wardrobes, custom cabinets, renovation plans or shop fittings.

Our team of designers is turning out some spectacular options and would love to help you turn your visions to reality uniquely functional and aesthetically pleasing fall easily into our visions!

Trusted Local Staff Ryan and the staff are hardworking, familyorientated people. Ryan has been working in Whangarei kitchen design for more than a decade now. Ryan is an expert at creating the smallest of custom cabinets through to

entirely new kitchens. He does this all within the budgets set by our clients. Whether you are building your dream home from scratch, or renovating a tiny cottage, we can help you create your ideal kitchen – the heart of any home.

Personalised service is guaranteed with us.

We will travel to your home so we can get an idea of your tastes and style, and then get to work finding all the necessary stuff that suits you and your requirements. You will then be sent a quote and 3D design, no strings attached!

Working with us is simple, stress-free and results in you getting the kitchen of your dreams. Whether big or small, luxurious or simplistic – we can do it all.

Here at Next Edition Kitchens, our job is to make your life easier. Let us take care of you, and the other tradespeople you will need for your kitchen, leaving you to enjoy the finished product. Thinking an upgrade?

Think Next Edition Kitchens, call us now on 09 430 3074 or maybe email us on sales@NextEditionKitchens.com and we will arrange a site measure and consultation to enable us to meet your needs in that special space we all enjoy the benefits.

nexteditionkitchens.com www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 39

Steel Construction

Recognising the value of research The Heavy Engineering Research Association’s (HERA’s) vision is to secure tomorrow’s steel industry by taking part in innovative research opportunities today.

Research conducted by HERA often takes a closer look at staples in the industry like spiral welded tubes in steel manufacturing and construction.

No composite steel flooring job is too

Big

HERA has been involved in research programmes which incorporate structural steel, light gauge steel, welding and other research efforts.

As evidenced at HERA’s AGM in May, HERA values research in the steel industry, especially those that look into improving the sustainability and performance of steel.

At the AGM HERA announced its sustainability funding recipients for the financial year of 2022 and gave more insight into the HERA Fab4.0Lab. As much as HERA appreciates looking into new sustainability efforts and ways to integrate the latest technologies, HERA also likes to take a closer look at already existing manufacturing processes and standards.

Or too small.

Investing in research HERA manager structural systems, Dr Kaveh “Kawa” Andisheh, has over 17 years of consulting and research experience.

its sustainability fund, HERA also financially supported the investigation covered in the Journal of Constructional Steel Research’s article, “Design resistance of helical seam pipe columns with limited tensile test data”.

In the article it states that the study conducted a capacity factor calibration for helical seam pipe columns – the calibration was for both forward and inverse reliability analyses [1].

Highlighting the significance of the research, Kawa says, “The magnitude of the capacity factors is specified in steel and composite standards.

“However, the values in the standards are usually based on production control measurements of geometry and yield strength from existing active steel producers, so they are not valid for other steel producers.

“This means if different steel producers enter the market afterward, they require their own statistical input values to calculate capacity factors.

“The inverse reliability analysis to identify the minimum number of material tests will be significantly important to designers when the nominal yield stress of a product is not known.

“This often happens when an existing steel element is reused [1]. In addition to delivering a structurally efficient solution, the results of this analysis improve construction sustainability though facilitating steel reuse.”

Helical seam pipe columns are composite, tailor-made circular sections also referred to as spiral welded tubes (SWTs).

Along with other interests, one of Kawa’s areas of focus at HERA includes steel-concrete composite structures.

SWTs are formed by curling long sheets of steel plate and welding the edges along the helix, or spiral, that is created when curling the steel plate.

In addition to the sustainability research projects HERA will be supporting through

The research emphasises multiple advantages of SWTs. Firstly, SWTs differ from longitudinally

"

This project is directly related to the HERA ‘delivering solutions’ strategy theme by making steel the material of choice by providing technically efficient solution and by facilitating reuse and design of SWTs. - HERA manager structural systems Dr Kaveh “Kawa” Andisheh.

"

Continued on page #42 >

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Steel Construction

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Issue #129 - B&C | 41

Steel Construction

The fourth industrial revolution...

Often referred to as Industry 4.0, is identified through its interweaving of the physical, digital and biological aspects of our lives. Companies that don’t utilise technologies characteristic to Industry 4.0 can be greatly disadvantaged or left behind.

HERA wants to enable its members to be as sustainable and efficient as possible.

With its members in mind, HERA revealed Fab4.0Lab at its most recent AGM. Fabricators can test ideas on highly sought-after machinery at Fab4.0Lab. Technologies at Fab4.0Lab will facilitate the implementation of integrated

4.0 data collection and analysis include things like 3D scanning, digital twin demonstration, productivity analysis and more.

Research and development ...

Are critical to HERA’s vision. For that reason, HERA provided financial support for research involving the design resistance of helical seam pipe columns with limited tensile test data.

HERA partners for this research project include Western Sydney University, the University of Sydney, and the University of Western Australia.

"

In addition to the sustainability research projects HERA will be supporting through its sustainability fund, HERA also financially supported the investigation covered in the Journal of Constructional Steel Research’s article, “Design resistance of helical seam pipe columns with limited tensile test data”.

"

welded tubes (LWTs) because the edges are welded along the length of the tube, not in a spiral like SWTs. Kawa says that SWTs are more beneficial than longitudinally welded tubes because the continuous spiral welding process is more efficient and allows tubes with different diameters to be formed using the same forming tools. Therefore, waste is minimised as a result of the efficient nature of SWTs’ manufacturing process.

“SWTs are cost effective, structurally efficient solutions. The findings of this research support SWTs in Australian and New Zealand standards and facilitate the design of SWTs in Australia New Zealand’s construction industries,” says Kawa.

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“SWTs having any diameter (including nonstandard diameters) can be manufactured to just resist required demand – but not much more than required.

“So, the outcomes positively affect economy through providing cost effective solutions and increase construction productivity.

“The outcomes of this research also improve construction sustainability through facilitating SWTs reuse when nominal yield stress of steel is unknown and minimizing waste due to efficient manufacturing process.”

Although the research results demonstrate how SWTs adhere to Australian and New Zealand standards, Kawa points out that the results can be used internationally as well.

This is because the design models are similar to the ones used in international standards and the reliability analyses that were carried out in accordance to ISO 2394[1].

5/33 ELIZABETH KNOX PLACE, MT. WELLINGTON, AUCKLAND PH: 0800-180-677 • E: INFO@MMPCOATINGS.CO.NZ www.mmpcoatings.co.nz 42 | B&C - Issue #129

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Kawa says, “This project is directly related to the HERA ‘delivering solutions’ strategy theme by making steel the material of choice by providing technically efficient solution and by

facilitating reuse and design of SWTs.” Research and development are critical to HERA’s vision and the partnerships HERA strikes up to achieve that vision are just as important. HERA collaborated with Western Sydney University, the University of Sydney and the University of Western Australia on this project.

Pushing forward Looking ahead, one of HERA’s goals for the next year is to position itself as a key contributor to thought leadership in the manufacturing, building and construction sectors.

The association already has a foothold in these sectors as a result of its strategy to deliver solutions through research and innovation.

In the next 12 months you will see HERA lead the way through various avenues, one of the main focuses being sustainability.

In an effort to increase sustainability across sectors, HERA plans to release its zero-carbon steel program, a report on steel recycling in New Zealand and a professional development program aimed at engineers working with carbon steel.

Heavy Engineering Research Association PO Box 76-134 Manukau Auckland (09) 262 2885 www.hera.org.nz

Grayson Engineering

New development for Grayson Engineering After five years in the making, Grayson Engineering’s new paint facility is finally up and running.

The paint shop which was established to make the companies processes more efficient and reduce their carbon footprint was opened up in early April after it was initially halted due to COVID. The new facility has meant that the company has cut down on a lot of their transporting movements with the paint shop now next being door to their workshop, and a significant proportion of the surface protection of fabrication steel can now be performed in-house.

The facility was almost running at full production, aside from a few other installments that the company were waiting to put in.

“One side of the workshop is functioning fully with the blasting and painting function; we’ve just got to put some more capital into a second blasting booth, so we can up our productivity to meet our fabrication workshops demands, this will happen as more funds become available to do it,” Grayson Engineering managing director, David Moore says.

As members of the Sustainable Steel Council, cutting down on their movements is important to David for the operation of the business.

“We’re part of the sustainable steel council, we’re accredited with them and we are committed to doing things a lot smarter.”

Grayson Engineering was established in 1972

by David’s father Patrick Moore, before the business was taken over by David and his wife where it went through a major restructure.

Since David has taken over the company, the business has experienced gradual and sustainable growth, with staff numbers now doubling in size to what they were in 2010.

Originally on a different site, the company moved 5kms down the road to their new Grayson Ave location in Papatoetoe and the business was renamed Grayson Engineering Ltd. The company has been involved in many significant projects, including the Forsyth Bar Stadium in Otago, the Justice Emergency and Services Precinct in Christchurch, as well as several projects for the Auckland University, including the engineering, the business school and the sport stadium.

The project in Ohakea for Hawkins Construction and the Ministry of Defense however, is the company’s most significant one yet.

Looking into the future, the company plan on continuing to keep it within the family when David eventually decides to step down.

“I’ve got a son, a daughter and a son-in law that work within the company and I want to really push them up the ladder a bit and take a few steps back.

“It’s quite a massive job; basically, the New Zealand Air Force have bought some new airplanes from the USA and part of the whole thing is to house these aircraft, and they’ve got to be put in a really secure aircraft hanger, so we’re working on that project along with Hawkins Construction.”

“It’s important to keep the family involved in the business, you’ve got to have people coming through, I’m certainly not going to be working forever.”

As for the company – while there are days where he can find it challenging, reaping the rewards make it worth it for him.

The company has been discussing the project since lockdown last year and the job is expected to be completed by April 2022.

“You’ve got to learn to take the good and the bad and just get on with it regardless of the external factors that are going on.”

As well as making their mark on Ohakea and Christchurch, the business also has a big presence around Auckland and the Waikato with warehousing and manufacturing facilities.

Some of the company’s services

When it comes to the business’s success, David says he recognises the contribution of all of the staff in the company.

“Our people are a big part of our success – our business is really nothing without good people, if you don’t have good people by your side within your business, you don’t have a business.”

Selection cutting Section cutting is all done in-house utilizing CNC machinery. The steel sections are unloaded and stored in a 2500 M2 uncovered Yard with a 20 tonne Semi Goliath Crane.

Now with approximately 170 people in the team, David says he is happy with the stage the business has got too.

They are then transferred into the workshop by conveyor and processed (cut, drilled, and profiled for copes, penetrations, and weld preps) through a Production line of Peddinghaus Saws, Beamlines, and Coping Machines.

“We’re certainly at a point now where apart from engaging people to work in the paint shop, we aren’t actually expanding other parts of the business, where about where we want to be.”

All the machines are linked by a series of conveyors and transfer beds to minimize the handling. The cutting and profiling of CHS sections is done by a Jesco Pipe profiling machine with robotic arm.

Protection you can count on Dulux Protective Coatings can provide tailor made solutions for whatever your project needs, even the most demanding & difficult conditions. Dulux Protective Coatings supplies a premium range of coatings for protection against corrosion, abrasive and impact damage in diverse environments from outlets throughout New Zealand.

Call your local Dulux Protective Coatings Consultant or contact Dulux Customer Service on 0800 800 424 Dulux Protective Coatings products used: Internal steelwork – Durepon FRX, Luxathane R; External steelwork – Zincanode 402, Duremax GPE, Weathermax HBE MIO Manukau Bus Station Architects: Beca, Fabricator: Grayson Engineering, Contractor: NZ Strong, Painter: Target Painters, Photographer: Syd Mannion.

Dulux, Durepon, Luxathane, Duremax and Weathermax are registered trade marks and Zincanode is a trade mark of DuluxGroup (Australia) Pty Ltd.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 43

Grayson Engineering

Fabrication

Our people are a big part of our success – our business is really nothing without good people, if you don’t have good people by your side within your business, you don’t have a business.

Fabrication of components is generally limited in size only to what can be transported, and our maximum in house lifting capacity of 40 tonnes.

Workstations are set up with overhead swing boom wire feed welding units, and are serviced by a combination of 2, 3 and 5 tonne Semi Goliath cranes, and 10, 16, and 20 tonne overhead Gantry cranes with an under-hook height of approximately 9.5 metres.

Each of our three Main Workshops is 120 metres long by 24 metres wide, with gas, air, and water reticulated to all workstations.

All work is carried out by qualified Tradesmen to strict QA procedures. Weld inspections are done by Independent Testing Authorities.

We’ve got you covered Your Complete service provider for all of your Hot Dip Galvanising, Industrial Grating and Sandblasting and Painting requirements.

The reassurance of protection both inside and out

Perry Metal Protection has been strengthening steel through Hot Dip Galvanizing (HDG) in New Zealand since the early 1970’s. With Operations in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, and Christchurch Perry Metal Protection offers the most comprehensive galvanizing service in New Zealand

Hamilton Galvanizing Facility The zinc bath dimensions are 9.5m long by 1.6m wide by 2.5m deep

These dimensions enable steel items up to 9.3 m in length to be single dipped or up to 18.1 m in length to be double end-dipped

14 Manchester Place, Te Rapa, Hamilton 3241 Ph: 07 850 0120 • Fx: 07 850 0129 • Email: pmp@perry.co.nz

09 278 3366

027 236 9718 Gate 5 25 Langley Road, Wiri, Auckland 2104

44 | B&C - Issue #129

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Grayson Engineering

Simplicity Funerals

STEEL CONSTRUCTION NEW ZEALAND (SCNZ) - AWARDS RECEIVED EXCELLENCE IN STEEL CONSTRUCTION • 1999 3rd Place Overall for Royal Sun Alliance roof structure • University of Auckland • 2000 Regional Winner (Australia & NZ) Business School for BCL Tower • Auckland Museum • 2001 Regional Winner (Australia & NZ) • Forsyth Barr Stadium. for Waikato Stadium ACECAD INTERNATIONAL DRAWING • 2004 2nd Place Overall for the Telstra COMPETITION AWARDS Clear Pacific Arena • 2007 2nd Place Overall for the • 1996 1st Place Overall for the Vector Arena North Harbour Stadium • 2010 1st Place Overall for the Forsyth • 1997 Regional Winner (Australia Barr Stadium. & NZ) for Kinleith Mill

PLAN YOUR FUNERAL, YOUR WAY Nelson & Tasman wide, we’re part of your community.

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Shop drawings Shop drawings are done in-house by associated detailing company Cadtec Draughting Ltd, utilising the 3D modelling software called Tekla.

Established in 1995, Cadtec Draughting started detailing with StruCAD and has gained a reputation for their professionalism and meticulous attention to detail. As a consequence, they have received many international awards for their work.

As well as providing the workshop drawings for fabrication, the software produces CAD data for Grayson's fabrication machinery, and documentation for Quality Assurance.

Grayson Engineering 25 Langley Road Manukau City Auckland (09) 278 3366 reception@grayson-eng.co.nz www.grayson-eng.co.nz

Speak to us today about no obligation, free funeral planning

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Issue #129 - B&C | 45

Reinforcing Steel Standards

So, you think you the steel (and how you can be sure you do)

New Zealand used to be an easy place to buy steels to build with. Standards were enforced by engineers, local councils, and government departments, and domestic New Zealand or Australian steel producers manufactured world-class product that supplied virtually the entire market.

All any specifier had to do was state in their documentation “to New Zealand Standards” and all any builder had to ask his suppliers was “how much?” Site engineers and checking authorities did the rest. It was really that simple and by and large, it worked – but no longer.

What is “adequate documentation”?

A global market

1. Suppliers’ Quality Management System (e.g. ISO 9001 certification);

Today, New Zealand is part of a highly competitive world market for steel. Materials can and do come from a variety of sources around the globe: Asia, Africa, Europe, dictated by price and availability. This flexibility gives consumers the best price for their products, but it can trip up the unwary when it comes to getting the right “quality”.

If we define “quality” as “performance characteristics” (surely our governing concern), then “quality” varies wildly between markets. So, just how does anyone know what they are getting when they place their order?

With material coming from diverse sources and manufactured to many different specifications, specifying “to AS/NZS Standards” does not guarantee that what is supplied will perform as intended by the design, unless certain checks are made.

Regular site checking of materials is very much a thing of the past. Reliance is almost exclusively on the documentation that arrives with the material supplied.

Documentation is therefore of critical concern. What, in fact constitutes “adequate documentation”? Whilst this differs by standard there are basically four different means of satisfying this aspect (and one, or more may be required):

2. Statistical sampling (e.g. long-term quality testing results) 3. Product Certification (e.g. independent 3rd- party audit by an accredited certification body competent in the products assessed) and; 4. “Other such means proposed by the manufacturer or supplier and acceptable to the customer”.

The intent is the consistent delivery of specified materials demonstrably conforming to the standard, fit for the intended purpose and adequality managing contract risk.

So, how does a designer, specifier, or builder know that all the steel delivered to their project meets the minimum requirements?

Unfortunately, the simple answer is that it is not easy and all branches of the construction industry have greater responsibilities in this regard than in “the good old days”.

Apples and oranges A quick look at the list above shows that the four options above do not provide equal confidence or outcomes: • A supplier’s quality management system, such as ISO 9001 is a quality system that helps ensure consistent processes and methods are followed by the company. It does not in and of itself guarantee that any materials will be manufactured or supplied to the requirements of any particular Standard. Further documentation and checks are necessary, even if there are “Factory Production Control” (FPC) audits as well; • Long-term quality testing of each product provides a much greater level of certainty of quality, presuming that it is maintained consistently and completely. However, the supplier’s own declaration is not sufficient.

Samples should be drawn randomly, at a particular quality and timing from a source of “known history”. But, who checks this? And how can it be verified?

Test Certificates That test certificates alone are not suitable as proof of conformity without substantial additional review and verification by a suitably qualified and experienced auditor. This is because test certificates are produced for a particular batch of finished material. They are only a “snapshot” of that individual product at that particular time. So you cannot rely on that certificate for a different batch of the same product, let alone for a different product altogether.

Furthermore, one certificate does not demonstrate statistical compliance with Code requirements. Test certificates alone are not therefore adequate to demonstrate Code compliance.

• “Other means” puts the entire onus on the customer to determine compliance from the results of testing coupled with the manufacturer’s guarantee of product conformance. Does the customer, or approval body (engineer or building surveyor) really wish to take full responsibility for determining that the supplier has met all the requirements of the Standard?

• Lastly, we have steel specialist third-party product certification bodies independent of the steel suppliers that examine all of the above criteria expertly and importantly, independent of the supplier to provide effective audit and certification of performance of certified products.

Clearly, independent, third-party product certification is both the most rigorous and being independent, provides the most confidence in the outcome for all parties.

46 | B&C - Issue #129

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Reinforcing Steel Standards

are getting you specify?

The ACRS scheme – steelmaking and subsequent processing and fabrication.

This complex and potentially confusing situation is why ACRS was formed in 2001, to provide the Australian and New Zealand construction industries with an 3rd-party system independent of steel suppliers that would ensure “The continued manufacture of reliable, safe, consistent-quality construction steels to Australian and New Zealand Standards”.

ACRS certifies both steel mills and then the rebar processing or structural welded section fabrication. This integrated 2-stage process means that all relevant products and applicable processes supplied by ACRS certificate holders are properly assessed for both key areas in the supply chain: 1. Manufacture of the materials, and 2.

The material’s subsequent transformation by cutting, bending, or welding to ensure it remains conforming with the required standards.

ACRS certification of the materials along the entire supply chain from steel manufacture to finished processed product ensures that the construction industry and public can be confident that the products assessed under the ACRS certification Scheme meet AS/NZS requirements.

Supporting international trade and commerce

The UK’s Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) recognises the Scheme as a ‘responsible sourcing certification scheme’; with the US LEED building rating system and the Hong Kong CIC scheme also recognising its Environmental Product Declarations (EPD).

Helping to accelerate the ongoing transition to an environmentally friendly construction industry The Scheme assesses producers annually against benchmark sustainability performance, assisting the better performing producers independently verify environmental and social performance of their product and its production processes.

Utilising a Rosette Rating System, credits are awarded to recognise and incentivise levels of performance exceeding mandatory levels, enabling organisations to better understand and plan a ‘transition pathway’ from current performance levels to an aspirational ‘sustainable’ steel production represented by a ‘4 Rosette Rating’.

This rating requires zero emission steel production, responsible sourcing, good safety record, sustainably produced and processed constructional steel, with a digital record.

For steel specifiers and procurement teams, the Scheme’s easy to access producer performance data and information allows them to more easily and accurately assess and demonstrate the expected certification requirements of the leading construction firms and government.

The Scheme already certifies over 40 producers and suppliers in 13 countries.

Products certified under the Scheme are approved inputs for a range of international building and infrastructure rating systems.

Ryan Alexiou, a regional environmental manager at Multiplex, said “Governments, clients and the community expect the construction industry to operate and build in an ethical and sustainable way.

It is currently seeking recognition from the Green Building Council of Australia and is compatible with the recently released Responsible Steel Standard.

“The SCS Scheme will help suppliers not only demonstrate high quality products, but also best practice standards for environment, safety and trade through their supply chains.”

Verify the ACRS ‘chain of certification’ Remember to check the ACRS Stage 1 certification for each steel mill, and then the ACRS Stage 2 certification of the finished steel supplier (processed rebar, mesh, or welded section) supplying you the steel. This is easy, just check the ACRS website or contact ACRS directly.

Any break in the “chain of certification” between ACRS Stage 1 and Stage 2 certification means the finished steel suppled to you may not be able to claim reliance on ACRS certification. This may be breaching contract requirements if ACRS certification is specified, and you will need to verify your steel by other means.

About ACRS Founded in 2001, the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing Steels (ACRS) is Australasia’s leading, not-for-profit, independent steel certification authority.

ACRS provides the most technically-rigorous, internationally-aligned, independent steel certification scheme to Australian and New Zealand Standards.

It has audited and certified over 100 suppliers from more than 24 countries to Australian and New Zealand Standards.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 47

Reinforcing Steel Standards

SHANDYING...

YOU WOULDN’T STAND FOR IT WITH YOUR BEER...

SO WHY STAND FOR IT WITH YOUR STEEL?

Are you getting what you ordered? (and what you PAID for?)

Does ALL of the steel you’re receiving comply with the right Standards?

The problem of mixed supply (or as it’s more commonly known, ‘shandying’) can have serious consequences – even if you’re specifying construction steels to meet Australian and New Zealand Standards.

Shandying can occur when conforming supply is ordered, but only a portion of the product supplied is sourced from ACRS Certified suppliers (and the rest is sourced from somewhere else). Using non ACRS Certified steel can leave you with non-compliant construction steel... and the risks that come with that.

By providing effective continuous review of both the manufacturer and the fabricator/processor, ACRS 2-stage steel certification scheme and the new ACRS traceability scheme play a major role in reducing the risk of shandying on your project.

Talk to us TODAY about how ACRS Certification gives you confidence in your steel supply.

www.steelcertification.com Ph: +61 (0)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

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Reinforcing Steel Standards

Innovative, collaborative and solutions focused We are a proud New Zealand company – locally owned by every day New Zealanders – and staffed with passionate people that really care for this country and all we stand for.

Our people are our greatest strength – the steel backbone of our company. We’re passionate, innovative, capable and proud of what we do.

We have expertise right across the construction industry – and love nothing more than helping our partners to create better projects and build better outcomes.

Like the rest of the country we have been through tough times – but we have worked hard to come out stronger and better equipped to create a positive future.

Now we are in a great position and we believe that New Zealand is too.

CFDLREO is our Reinforcing and Composite Metal Decking business unit. It is focused on providing solutions that meet the needs of both the customer and the project.

Yes, that is easy to say, but we know what is required to deliver on that focus.

We understand that to achieve the right outcome there is significant work required to clearly comprehend the project and client needs, engineer and develop a solution, document and present the offer in a way that unmistakably outlines what is being proposed.

This requires a team effort, and collaboration, and innovative thinking but most importantly close customer engagement.

We have manufacturing plants strategically located throughout the country to be able to service all regions and have technical presence in six locations to meet local requirements.

We have an amazing team of people and truly believe that we are stronger when we all work together.

There is no project too big or too small or in a sector that we cannot service - be that large infrastructure, high-rise residential, commercial or small residential – we have the team and capability.

We have brought together a group of experts and capabilities within both the reinforcing and metal decking sectors that reach right across the country.

CFDLREO is also able to offer a combined solution for both Reinforcing and ComFlor Metal Decking. This provides a single point of accountability for both disciplines,

one common installation crew which helps reduce downtime and maintain continuity and common on-site health and safety and quality management.

We are experts in our field. We have the best locally sourced and manufactured products,

a diverse and integrated collaborative team that wants to work in close unity with our clients.

Give us a call. We will be happy to meet and take you through our approach to delivering an outcome that meets your needs.

BUILDING STRENGTH AND RESILIENCE. We’re focused on developing innovative solutions for your project, with a value added and collaborative approach.

Steel & Tube is a leading provider of reinforcing and floor decking. Through our combined CFDL / Reinforcing team we are able to provide a single point of supply for both solutions.

Every day, we are helping to build strength and resilience in some of the most important infrastructure & construction developments nationally and across many sectors of the economy.

0800 478 335 steelandtube.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 49

Cement & Concrete

Combating coastal erosion block by concrete block Rising sea levels caused by climate change pose a threat to coastlines around the world. Hope is at hand however, in the form of an innovative precast concrete solution made right here in New Zealand.

Westlock Concrete Solutions Ltd (WCS), based in Northern Buller on the West Coast of the South Island, decided that it was time to stop retreating and start advancing.

With the aim of protecting New Zealand’s vulnerable coastline from the rising tide, the small Kiwi company has designed and constructed a trial seawall of interlocking hexagonal concrete blocks at Hector, 30 kilometres north of Westport.

Background WCS director of sales and marketing, Martin Hill has first-hand experience of the damage caused by coastal erosion. After several attempts at protecting his own property with large boulders, he realised it did not offer a long-term solution.

“I was looking for a long-lasting fix,” Martin says. “So, I began to collaborate with a group

"

of local residents, which fortunately included several engineers.”

Following much discussion WCS was established, and its collective experience and expertise led to the interlocking block design.

As the development process reached the engineering compliance and manufacturing stages, WCS partnered with Busck Prestressed Concrete Ltd, one of New Zealand’s largest and most respected manufacturers of precast concrete products.

The outcome was an engineered interlocking hexagonal block, which when combined with the appropriate placement method creates a versatile and durable structure that offer over 50 years of protection against the unrelenting ocean.

Manufacturing considerations Research and development undertaken by WCS paid dividend during manufacturing and installation.

“There is a lot more to the product than meets the eye, and with the help of Busck, we have created a very high-specification marine grade concrete block,” Martin says.

Busck acknowledges that making the blocks was relatively simple, thanks to WCS’s attention to detail during pre-production trials.

WCS ironed out a lot of creases during their early development work. This combined with their willingness to share information about the challenges they had overcome meant we didn’t have to reinvent the wheel.

- Busck national technical & design manager, John Marshall

"

"

Climate change will inevitably accelerate the rate of coastal erosion across New Zealand, creating a lot of stress for property owners and councils alike.

“WCS ironed out a lot of creases during their early development work,” Busck national technical & design manager, John Marshall says. “This combined with their willingness to share information about the challenges they had overcome meant we didn’t have to reinvent the wheel.”

Busck conducted its own trials at its Ashburton factory, which used in-house draughting and 3D modelling capability to experiment with reinforcing content and with different ways of connecting the blocks to maximise resilience.

“The concrete used in the blocks themselves has a low water/cement ratio and contains micro-silica to ensure compliance with the marine requirements of class C in NZS 3101 Concrete Structures Standard for a 50-year life,” John says.

The blocks also have a concrete strength of 45 MPa, a F4/U3 surface finish, a minimum reinforcing cover of 60 mm, and returns as specified in NZS 3101.

“The partnership is working very well, with Busck providing the design certification and manufacturing component, and WSC the concept, installation and marketing,” John says.

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The community response to the trial wall has been very positive, with plenty of offers to assist during installation, as well as many admiring glances now that it is complete.

Next steps The local community’s interest has been matched from further afield, with inquiries received from along the West Coast and around New Zealand, a response helped by 1 News filming a story on the ‘clever concrete invention’.

WCS hopes that the success of the trial seawall will prompt regional, district and city councils to seriously consider the system in plans to address coastal erosion.

The return on investment from the WCS system is clear, with the value of properties in areas prone to the loss or displacement of land always under threat.

Furthermore, the peace-of-mind offered through a permanent solution to coastal erosion also encourages the development of surrounding areas, making for a win-win situation.

The trial seawall, located near the tiny West Coast town of Hector, was built in a week using a single 12-tonne excavator.

The economics are bolstered by the fact that Busck can manufacture the blocks at any of its seven facilities across New Zealand, from which transport to site can either be by truck or rail.

The seawall consists of three different block types (base, standard and top), is five blocks high and 40 blocks long, totalling around 200, two-tonne concrete blocks.

“Climate change will inevitably accelerate the rate of coastal erosion across New Zealand, creating a lot of stress for property owners and councils alike,” Martin says.

There were no issues in terms of gaining consent with the West Coast Regional Council, along with the Department of Conservation, seeing tremendous potential in the system’s ability to combat coastal erosion.

“WSC will look to raise awareness of the interlocking block system with territorial authorities and central government as well as amongst civil engineers, to ensure every erosion affected New Zealander has the option of a long-term solution.”

Installation and response

Westlock Concrete Solutions Ltd (WCS) and Busck Prestressed Concrete Ltd are rightfully proud of their interlocking concrete seawall system.

"

-WCS director of sales and marketing, Martin Hill

Of particular appeal to the council is that the system requires minimal maintenance, unlike the current practice of arranging large boulders to form temporary barriers, which in storm conditions can pose a danger to homes.

Article reproduced with kind permission from Concrete NZ.

Cement & Concrete

WORLD CLASS SOLUTIONS • FOR CONCRETE & INFRASTRUCTURE Engineering & Plant Services partners with both SANY and SIMEM to deliver exceptional global technology, local expertise and lifetime support to the concrete & infrastructure industries.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 51

Cement & Concrete

Concrete NZ Conference 2021 registrations opening soon Registrations will open soon for Concrete NZ’s 2021 conference to be held 14-16 October at the Energy Event Centre in Rotorua.

The programme is headlined by Santiago Pujol, Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Canterbury, whose experience includes earthquake engineering and the evaluation and strengthening of existing structures.

As always, the well-crafted conference social programme will provide plenty of chances to renew or create connections.

Professor Santiago Pujol.

Image. University of Canterbury.

The Conference is a definite highlight each year for the construction industry, offering a combination of quality technical content, outstanding social functions, broad industry representation, and value for money that is unsurpassed by other conferences.

The 2021 conference will undoubtedly follow in this successful tradition particularly as the industry gathers following the postponement of the 2020 event due to COVID-19.

The Rotorua Energy Events Centre offers spacious auditoria, along with great spaces that will provide ample opportunity to engage with trade exhibitors who form an integral part of the conference. Amongst these exhibitors will be the patrons and sponsors, who increase the value proposition of the conference and deserve particular acknowledgement.

An exceptional response to the call for papers has allowed the organising committee to assemble a strong technical programme that will cater to the varying interests of attendees.

Concrete NZ Conference 2021 (09) 536 5410 concrete@bluepacificevents.com www.theconcreteconference.co.nz

The Energy Events Centre in Rotorua.

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FREE DELIVERY ON BULK ORDERS Call Troy on 022 673 9877 or Jackson on 021 977 444 | www.qualitysteelsupplies.co.nz 52 | B&C - Issue #129

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Cement & Concrete

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Issue #129 - B&C | 53

Cement & Concrete

SIFCO fastening solutions The new MAX® TwinTier™ RB441T rebar tier can tie rebar faster and with more power than ever before!

This is the sixth-generation tool from MAX® Japan and by far the best!

This new generation MAX® Rebar-Tier the RB441T TwinTier™ was introduced with three new design features to provide the greatest efficiency and highest level of safety reinforcing ironworkers have ever experienced.

The TwinTier’s “dual wire feeding mechanism” increases tying speed by reducing the time needed to twist and feed the wire, consequently reducing the cost, and shortening the time required for construction. The tool’s dual-wire wrap ensures each tie is reinforced for maximum hold.

The TwinTier’s “wire pull back mechanism” firmly pulls the tie wire in to adjust the tie to the rebar’s size to maximise the strength of the tie. When forming a tie the tool makes a loop with the wire and then pulls the wire to tightly secure and lock the rebar in place.

The TwinTier’s “wire bending mechanism” feeds a precise amount of wire to match the thickness of the rebar being tied and cut down on the use of unnecessary wire.

The TwinTier’s “wire pull-back mechanism” firmly pulls the tie wire in to adjust the tie to the rebar’s size to maximise the strength of the tie.

This bending mechanism consistently feeds, pulls back, twists and releases the perfect sized tie for each application.

This generation of the MAX® Rebar-Tier produces ties that are approximately 50 percent shorter in height, allowing for thinner concrete pours. Also, the ends of each tie are positioned downward to increase safety.

Additionally, wire spools now produce up to 240 ties (when tying D12 x D12 rebar).

The TwinTier’s added features also include a jaw that is constructed to tie D10 x D10 up to D22 x D22 rebar. This wide jaw accommodates larger gauge rebar while its slim arm offers the freedom to work in tight spaces.

The TwinTier’s quick load magazine makes changing wire spools a piece of cake, and its frontward position provides improved balance/ergonomics, making flatwork easier.

A low “battery power consumption” design allows the tool to produce 4,000 ties per charge using a 14.4v, 4.0 Ah Li-ion battery, which recharges in just 40 minutes.

The tool’s six-step torque adjustment dial allows its user to adjust the strength of

the tie based on the application. Steel, electrogalvanized and polyester (“poly”) coated wire are all available for use with the MAX® TwinTier™.

The MAX® TwinTier™ works at double the speed and produces double the number of ties from a single roll of wire than the previous model and far exceeds that of any of its competitors.

Overall, no matter the application, the MAX® TwinTier™, reduces the time it takes to complete a job, saves businesses money by cutting man hours needed for each project and increases the productivity of its workers.

For more information visit the SIFCO website: www.sifco.co.nz.

TM

Double the Speed - Double the Ties Simple to operate - fast to use - wraps 2 x 1.0mm tie wires, tensions and ties tight, with a 50% shorter tie height than other models. Ties a combined size of 20mm, up to 44mm, approximately 240 ties per coil, 4000 ties per charge, with the MAX® 40 minute fast charger. The MAX® RB441T TwinTier Re-bar tier is lightweight, with a compact body. Made in Japan.

Battery operated re-bar-tying tool for: • • • • • •

Precast concrete products Building foundations Road and bridge construction Floors and walls Retaining walls Swimming pool walls

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NZ distributors For a demo, contact sales@sifco.co.nz www.sifco.co.nz

Dayle ITM

Dayle ITM At Dayle ITM, we're big on relationships, honesty, and flexibility.

We’re the friendliest and most reliable building supply specialists out there, servicing Auckland, North Waikato & Coromandel daily. Our three handy locations in Avondale, East Tamaki, and Kopu means we’re conveniently located as your one-stop-shop for trade and DIY building supplies.

Avondale

Kopu

Founded in 1976 by Alan & Gloria Day, we started our business journey fabricating Dayle Cottages, before moving into Pre-nail and Truss manufacture.

Our Kopu store brings a total solution to the building industry in the area. This store is perfectly located to assist with all your building projects on the Coromandel Penisula and across the Hauraki Plains and Northern Waikato. Talk to us about your next job, and we'll show you just how good our service is.

Our MiTek frame and truss plant is well known in the industry for the quality of the product we manufacture, and with seven trucks out and about delivering to sites in Auckland and beyond daily we are well placed to meet your needs.

East Tamaki Our East Tamaki store is the transformation of a store with a 30-year lineage. Already in the ITM fold, first as Smith Timber, then as Tamaki ITM from April 2014, the East Tamaki store joined the Dayle family in May 2019.

With an onsite MiTek Manufacturing Plant and a central, Auckland location our East Tamaki store is perfectly situated for projects in Central, East and South Auckland, as well as the Northern Waikato.

in three pre-nail frame and truss plants – to help speed your project timeline. It’s why we have a fleet of 12 delivery trucks on the road daily – to ensure you’ve got what you need, when you need it. It’s why we host free LBP training evenings for all of our customers – to ensure you’re always at the forefront of industry updates; it’s why we make it easy for Dayle ITM customers to purchase off one

accounts across three locations – to make your job easier. If you’re a busy construction business or a weekend DIY warrior, talk to us about the very best in building supplies, advice, and service. We’ll see you right!

Find us online at www.dayleitm.co.nz or call any of our three handy locations on 0800 DAYLE ITM.

Going the extra mile? That’s our team. Dayle ITM has been family-owned and operated for forty-five years and counting, that's just one reason why we’re trusted trade partners to thousands of builders across the upper North Island. And, being part of the ITM Co-operative means we’re connected to over 90 stores across New Zealand, so we can support your next building project – wherever it is.

We’re committed to the success of your next project – it’s this dedication that sees us continually investing in ways to support the building trade. It’s why we’ve invested

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 55

Building in Otago

On the outside

The complicated rules that govern new builds in Otago’s towns and cities

By Claire Wright

Known for its glacial lakes and snow-capped mountains, the Otago region truly is a sight to behold.

Despite the heavy loss of income for the local economy due to Covid, the residential housing market is booming.

A multitude of factors, from the stunning natural beauty of the region to its worldrenowned wineries, only partially contribute.

Combine that with houses in the region owned

by US celebrities like Brad Pitt and Shania Twain, you can’t help but be impressed by Otago’s reputation alone.

Otago as a whole has seen housing prices increase by 58.8 percent from April 2020 to in April 2021, according to REINZ property data.

In April 2020, the median price for a house in the Otago region was $447,000 – in April 2021, it was $710,000.

The Queenstown-Lakes District housing market specifically has reached record highs, breaking

market trends around New Zealand, with a median house price of $1,200,000, which is a new record high.

Residential developers and homeowner’s associations alike are keen for new housing developments to blend seamlessly in with the natural landscape – for good reason.

Keeping Otago as New Zealand’s crown jewel can do nothing but help the region’s economy once our borders open once again.

However, for architects, builders and home buyers, this can create an intriguing dilemma in what’s acceptable and what’s not in terms of materials.

This differs from developments to associations, but here are some of the most common rules to preserve continuity across some new builds, especially in Queenstown.

Not only that, but there can be factors – like urban planning for increased population and noisy student populations – that get in the way of guidelines for houses to have visual continuity.

Structural Concrete Solutions Ltd SCS is a specialised Structural Concrete Contractor.

We offer a site management and supervision team supported by a skilled and motivated workforce.We thrive on the opportunity to partner with main contractors to tackle those demanding structural concrete packages.

CIVIL & STRUCTURAL CONCRETE REFURBISHMENT PRECAST & TILT-UP STRUCTURAL GROUTING

027 553 1720

james.odea@structuralsolutions.co.nz

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We are proud to be partners and contractors to some of NZ’s most reputable main contractors, property developers and local authorities.

With expertise in large and complex construction project SCS thrives on the challenges involved with some Otago’s largest and most recent developments.

The company prides itself on being reliable, honest, capable and determined. In an industry where success and efficiency can easily waver, the company stays committed to the developments it is involved until their successful delivery.

Our People Managing director James O’Dea does not hesitate when asked what makes him most proud about what the company has achieved in its relatively short life.

It is unquestionably the bringing together of the SCS team as a whole.

SCS employs people with a diverse mix of ethnicities, capabilities and backgrounds: Project managers, site managers, foreman, tradesmen and apprentices are all part of the SCS family.

James often uses the well-known saying “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts” when describing the SCS team.

An eye on the future Concrete is the single most widely used material in the world besides water, it is therefore obvious to state that improvements or efficiency gains in the use of the product help reduce costs and improve sustainability.

SCS is a firm believer that enhanced preconstruction planning, BIM adoption and more advanced project delivery, have the ability to transform the construction and concrete industries into a more efficient and integrated system in the coming decade.

The industry now has the technological tools to make significant improvements, now is the time for contractors, suppliers and clients to work collaboratively to ensure our industry evolves into a more efficient form of itself.

SCS stands ready and willing to be part of the evolution of our industry in the years to come.

Building in Otago

CDH Painting CDH Painting is a high quality painting and decorating company based in the Southern Lakes.

The business has been operating since 2010.

We are involved in many major projects and can cater to all needs, from high end bespoke painting works to large commercial projects. We currently have 25 staff employed full time with all of them being professional painters and decorators.

With dedicated specialist sprayers and special effects painters, CDH Painting is Dulux and Porters accredited – a preferred applicator for the Southern Lakes.

We work alongside the most respected builders and construction companies.

We have the ability to meet deadlines and cater to any programme changes; we work extremely well under pressure and have made the impossible happen many times whilst working alongside many construction companies.

We have the ability to meet deadlines and cater to any programme changes; we work extremely well under pressure and have made the impossible happen many times whilst working alongside many construction companies.

Carter Hardy Director carter@cdhpainting.co.nz 027-544-2739

www.cdhpainting.co.nz

Residential, commercial, interior/exterior, renovation, industrial coatings, protective coatings, fire coatings and special effects. www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 57

Building in Otago Queenstown Lakes District

Looks wise, they give suggestions like plant species you should put in your garden or lowmaintenance materials with low impact.

The Queenstown Lakes District as a whole has a draw for both New Zealanders and overseas buyers.

The nitty gritty of aesthetics is left to homeowner’s associations and subdivision developers.

Although demand tapered off once the government passed legislation to block foreign purchasers in October 2018, with Queenstown being the most popular location for foreign buyers that year, it still hasn’t lost its appeal.

Jack’s Point Jack’s Point subdivision, once it’s completed, will be nearby Lake Wakatipu, with different sections containing residential housing and a close commercial hub.

This might have to do with its large international tourism pool – Queenstown’s tourism economy consisting of 70 percent international tourists pre-Covid (according to Tourism Minister Stuart Nash), as well as its reputation as the adventure capital of the world.

It will serve around 7,000 people of the community adjacent to the area.

The Queenstown-Lakes District has a keen interest to keep Queenstown beautiful even as international buyers have been off the table for a few years.

The area, after all, has prices in line with Auckland.

The district council has it s own design guide to align with its district plan. Residential living is split into three zones.

1. High density residential.

2. Medium density residential.

3. Lower density suburban residential.

Most of these are key elements to any typical residential design guide for councils across New Zealand.

It covers topics like entrances and detailing, building height and sunlight access, accessibility and low impact design – this is more in line to ensure public good and betterquality housing stock.

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This includes over 1,300 residential homes, restaurants and shops, and a luxury lodge with amenities like the championship golf course.

As Jack’s Point has a more commercial bent in mind and not solely the future good of the public, there is a strong focus on aesthetic appeal and the brand of the subdivision, especially as it will have its own community hub and shopping centre.

As the world becomes more and more concerned with what human beings have done to the planet, so has business.

The developers have made a commitment to a sustainable development approach, where only five percent of the total land area will be built upon.

In order to complement the glittering Lake Wakatipu, there are very strict residential design guidelines. This is to keep with its philosophy, which includes: • Buildings with ‘simple architectural form’ that draw inspiration from ‘traditional rural

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LEADERS IN QUALITY CONSTRUCTION AND INFRASTRUCTURE New Builds and Renovations • Residential / Commercial PHONE: 021 895 745 | EMAIL: contact@aegilesbuilders.co.nz

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24 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

Local, Reliable and Skilled

Building in Otago

• Materials with a natural palette, the muted tones drawing the eyes to the surrounding landscape

If a homeowner wants ‘exotic’ or ‘formal planting’ it needs to be contained to an area right next to the house and that’s not visible from surrounding areas, which probably means pedestrians can’t see these plants from the street.

• A ‘strongly native/endemic plant palette’ that takes inspiration from the environment and the ‘underlying ecology of the site’.

Another example of strict controls for properties in the subdivision include materials for fencing and boundary walls.

To enforce this philosophy, the subdivision has the Jack’s Point Design Review Board (DRB), which has the responsibility of assessing whether a project complies with its design guidelines, as well as the degree in which the build ‘enhances the amenity and the streetscape’.

For example, if the homeowner wants a boundary wall, it must be made of schist stone, preferably from the Wakatipu Basin. If the homeowner wants a fence, it has to be dark or natural stained timber, or macrocarpa post and wire.

residential and farm buildings’ – this is to accentuate the ever-present snowy caps of Coronet Peak

The DRB assesses proposals against its philosophy and ‘specific controls’ set out in the Jack’s Point Design Guidelines – if some controls aren’t met, the DRB may not approve a proposal.

Some of these controls are fairly strict. For example, 75 percent of shrubs and trees have to be native and suitable to site conditions.

The key to this, though, to create a more spacious feel, is that there is a maximum of 50 percent of site boundaries on any one property with a fence, wall or clipped edge.

Some owners may feel constricted by these types of rules and regulations on their own properties, while others may feel it maintains the value of their homes. Either way, these beautiful homes aren’t anything to scoff at.

Large Jobs or Small - Always Quality Assured

• Structural Steel Fabrication & Installation • Stainless & Aluminium Work • Balustrades & Handrails • Full Machine Shop Facility • Architectural Metalwork • Farm & Earthmoving Machinery Repairs & Maintenance • Stairs & Staircases Ph: 03 443 6007 E: info@centrallakesengineering.nz 38 Gordon Road, Wanaka, 9305

We specialise in residential, high end architectural and light commercial, including shop fit outs.

027 898 3486 | queenstownstoppingservices@gmail.com

www.queenstownstoppingservices.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 59

Building in Otago

Infinite Energy NZ Smarter, cleaner, cheaper energy – made by you.

Next-generation hybrid solar power systems incorporate the latest clean energy technology in a customised solution, designed to provide true energy independence.

“Today, homeowners have a greater number of options for renewable energy systems and products than ever before,” says Regan Heal, general manager of family-owned company Infinite Energy. “At a time when New Zealand is burning the most coal for energy generation since 2006, not only is solar great for saving on your power bill – it’s great for the country and climate as well.

“Our most popular residential systems are hybrid systems, which are connected to the grid, but also incorporate lithium-ion battery storage.”

Surplus energy, created throughout the day, charges batteries for evening peak loads; once batteries are fully charged, the system can still export power back to the grid.

For Infinite Energy, a big part of what they offer is driven by sourcing and specifying products that not only offer high-level 60 | B&C - Issue #129

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performance & warranties but also complement the architecture of the house.

Their pure black range of solar panels from brands like Hyundai and REC blend seamlessly into modern, dark roofs.

Battery performance and battery life, too, has greatly improved with the move to lithium-ion - the same chemistry and technology found in EVs and smart phones.

Lithium-ion batteries offer long-life capability and up to 95 percent discharging on a daily basis. Infinite Energy specifies a number of different battery brands, tailoring solutions to match clients’ unique needs and budget.

The benefits of installing batteries are numerous – most notably the ability to store surplus daytime energy for “24 hours of sun” covering evening peak energy demands with stored solar energy and avoiding the use of expensive, on-peak network power.

One of the added benefits that makes a huge difference to many households, though, is energy resilience – having a reliable back-up power supply to the house in the event of network power outages.

For more information visit www.infiniteenergy.co.nz

Building in Otago

Hotspot Installations Ltd Exciting new ventures are afoot for the team and clients of Hotspot Installations Ltd. With a premises in Invercargill to service the Southland region, Hotspot Installations Ltd has now opened a new premises in Cromwell, and can service the Central Otago region.

Hotspot Installations Ltd is a proud Southland owned and operated family business which has been helping keep homes warm since 2015.

Co-owner Phill Tily said their staff have the knowledge and experience to ensure homeowners stay warm and healthy during the cold months and to ensure their wood or multi-fuel burners met the National Environmental Standards (NES) for Air Quality.

With the new rules to home heating in Invercargill, Gore, Central Otago now in place, Hotspot Installations has the knowledge and experience to ensure your new burner is compliant with the National Environmental Standards (NES) for Air Quality.

The home heating specialists signed up to Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA)’s Warmer Kiwi Homes programme in December 2019, a programme designed to encourage homeowners to make their homes warmer, drier and healthier.

Through the scheme, home owners could apply for grants to offset the costs associated with installing compliant home heating systems. To find out if you are eligible, go to www.energywise.govt.nz and click on the Warmer Kiwi Homes tool.

Phill’s wife and fellow co-owner Laura Tily said it was important for clients to think ahead of the winter months for getting their home-heating sorted in time.

The team have a range of options – suppliers of the Dimplex Opti-myst and Optiflame range, there are options for style and convenience in the form of an electric fire without sacrificing the ambience of flame.

Hotspot Installations have been keeping homes warm since 2015. Locally owned and operated, Hotspot travel throughout the Southland & Otago region, installing and servicing fireplaces.

Another option was the Nobo panel heater range, ideal for those looking for modern and inconspicuous heating solutions.

For those wanting additional control of their panel heater, the Energy Control System enables that through a ‘hub’ which connects all home panels to the users mobile or tablet via the internet.

Hotspot can help with all fireplace needs, from installing new fireplaces, servicing and repairing existing fireplaces to cleaning chimneys and flues and providing advice on which burners would best suit customers’ needs.

The range of brands available is extensive, and caters for a range of needs and desires.

These include Ethos, Woodsman, Masport, Kent, Firenzo, Jayline, Bosca, Blaze, King and Wagener stoves.

They also sell several new brands of wood burners, including Pyroclassic, Warmington, Nectre and Regency; in addition to wood and multi-fuel burners, Hotspot also sell Ravelli Pellet Fires and ultra low emission burners (ULEB).

If you are unsure whether your burner is compliant with current clean air rules, get in touch today and the staff at Hotspot Installations Ltd can help.

Your one stop shop for...

Wood & Multi Fuel Burners Pellet Fires ULEB Flue Cleaning Servicing & Repairs Installations

For expert advice contact us today

SOUTHLAND 96 Kelvin St, Invercargill P: 03 218 8802 E: invercargill@hotspotinstallations.co.nz

CENTRAL OTAGO 1/17 Chardonnay St, Cromwell P: 03 428 3197 E: cromwell@hotspotinstallations.co.nz

www.hotspotinstallations.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 61

Building in Otago

According to data from Infometrics, overall employment in Dunedin City is expected to exceed pre-Covid levels by 2023.

Dunedin Dunedin has been in a bit of a prickly situation when it comes to residential housing and how it blends with the landscape.

This is because of the age-old culture war between university students and the homeowning population.

The university students want to let loose and have some fun (can you blame them?), with the University of Otago’s somewhat infamous reputation as both a party school and New Zealand’s premier medical school.

These images clash with each other, as well as with local residents who are tired of partiers’ leaving behind littered exteriors outside of their flats.

Beyond this, though, Dunedin is growing – hopefully soon it’ll outgrow its notoriety as solely a party town. It has become the tech hub of New Zealand, especially for tech-based businesses and startups.

According to Dunedin NZ, it’s the most connected city in the Southern Hemisphere – it’s also home to the New Zealand Centre of Digital Excellence (CODE).

Pair this with the city’s lush landscape and more affordable living than Queenstown with all the perks the region has to offer, it’s no wonder that people are flocking to Dunners.

According to data from Infometrics, overall employment in Dunedin City is expected to exceed pre-Covid levels by 2023.

At the behest of the city’s year-round residents, University of Otago has cracked down on students living in non-student housing with its rubbish plan.

The university announced its plan to fine students who have let the rubbish at their flats get out of control.

It’s become a battle, with some people believing its between tenants and landlords – the Dunedin City Council itself doesn’t

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E: mcnulty@xtra.co.nz Natasha Mason Director - NT Mason and Co Limited P: (03) 477 1495 A: John Wickliffe House, Level 4, 265 Princes Street, Dunedin E: natasha@ntmason.co.nz

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021 284 5377 | www.tilingplus.co.nz 62 | B&C - Issue #129

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Building in Otago

even have the power to issue notices on private property.

Not only that, but there can be factors – like urban planning for increased population and noisy student populations – that get in the way of guidelines for houses to have visual continuity.

Alpine Joinery Since 1981 Dunedin-based Alpine Joinery has crafted unique joinery for homeowners and business owners across Southland and Otago.

Whether you require a bespoke piece of furniture to fit a specific space, custom cabinetry for your kitchen renovation or new joinery for your period home we can help.

Over the years, we've developed a reputation as one of Dunedin's leading joinery

manufacturers with an emphasis on pieces that fit your exact needs, made with care and attention. Our experienced joiners can work from architectural drawings, simple sketches or photographs to create the fine custom joinery – we’re passionate about fine craftmanship with a creative flair.

The Dunedin City Council doesn’t seem to have a residential design guide, but it does have its Spatial Plan for Dunedin, which was originally published in September 2012.

Similar to Queenstown-Lakes District’s residential design guide, Dunedin’s has to do more with urban planning – from maintaining biodiversity to making a liveable city.

We create custom…

• kitchen joinery including complete custom kitchens and beautiful benchtops • bathroom cabinetry and vanity units • laundry cabinets • wardrobes

These are all important goals, but these less strict design guides can lead to less elegant and charming homes.

All in all, what’s more important than gorgeous houses are safe places for New Zealanders to live in. We want people to live in safe, warm and dry houses. It does pay to bring up this point, though – in order to get people to care about safer housing for the Otago region, making them nice to look at sure does help. It shouldn’t be the case, but it is.

creating or renovating entire rooms. We start each process by listening carefully to what you want to achieve both in terms of function and the look of the pieces. These initial steps in our design and manufacturing process help us fully understand your project so we create pieces that exactly meet your requirements.

Only after these conversations and planning do we create designs for you to see.

• bedroom and living room furniture • interior design services – colours, carpets, curtains and more.

We also create standout furniture for commercial spaces including cafes and restaurants.

At Alpine Joinery we understand that joinery is a large investment especially if you are

All joinery is created locally by our dedicated team and we have an open-door policy where you can visit our workshop to see your joinery being created. We work hard to ensure your designs come in on time and on budget while delivering top-quality work and making the process an enjoyable one for you.

Aspirations designed and built!

Call Julie on 03 488 4333 or email here at alpine-joinery@xtra.co.nz 552 Kaikorai Valley Road, Dunedin

www.alpinejoinery.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 63

Building in Otago By the numbers: Real estate in the Otago region Compared to April 2020

• Sales count down 33.9 percent

• Median price up 58.8 percent

• Seasonally adjusted sales count down 20.4 percent

• Sales count up 441.8 percent • Days to sell increased one day.

• Days to sell increased four days.

Data sourced from REINZ Monthly Property Report – April 2021.

Compared to March 2021 • Median price up 5.2 percent • Seasonally adjusted median up 3.7

Median house price per region

April 2021

March 2021

April 2020

Central Otago District

$630,000

$770,000

$325,000

Clutha District

$360,000

$385,000

$375,000

Dunedin City

$621,120

$620,000

$495,000

Queenstown-Lake District

$1,200,000

$1,190,000

$850,000

Waitaki District

$399,000

$430,000

$310,000

Otago Region

$710,000

$675,000

$447,000

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

Whether you have a leaky basement or want to prevent a leaky basement, Adhesion Sealing are the guys to call.

They have a range of products for both new builds and existing structures and have been waterproofing basements in the Otago area for over 35 years.

Adhesion Sealing is a leader at waterproofing, sealing, and seismic strengthening. They identify, plan, and apply industry-best solutions for keeping moisture out. The team can take on any job, whether big or small.

In addition to this, Adhesion Sealing also completes the following work to protect your building structure and keep water out.

• Sealants – floor/wall sealants, hygienic sealants and decorative sealants.

• Roof and deck membranes – for flat roof areas or trafficable decks

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

• Concrete repair and protection – repairs to spalling or damaged concrete • Floor levelling and toppings – cement based, resin based for interior or exterior use • Hygienic floor and wall toppings – for commercial kitchens, labs and more • High pressure injection – for structural use or for fixing leaks

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• Seismic FRP or Carbon Fibre systems – suitable for earthquake strengthening structural elements • Seismic joints – for floor, wall or roof joints • ProClima Weathertighness/Airtightness – for energy efficient healthy structures.

All products are installed by experienced applicators to meet Building Code requirements. Because Adhesion Sealing is able deal with more than one supplier, the company is able to offer a range of products to suit all situations and budgets.

Give Adhesion Sealing a call to discuss your issue. Its experienced staff can visit either your site, or price off plans as required. With premium quality waterproofing and sealing products you know you can trust, Adhesion Sealing’s skilled workmanship will keep moisture out of your home. The effective and long lasting products work for roofs, windows, pools, floors, paving and decks.

(03) 453-0791 dn@adhesionsealing.co.nz www.adhesionsealing.co.nz

Building in Otago

We do Commercial & Domestic jobs

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● Brass Fittings

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For all your commercial & residential kerbing needs in the central otago area. Also specialising in driveways, footpaths & patios.

Call MARK KELLY 0274382365

KERB CENTRAL MARK@KERBCENTRAL.CO.NZ

● Joiner Sleeves ● Stanchions

● Accessories CONTACT US TODAY

0800 426 372 info@handrailfittings.co.nz | www.handrailfittings.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 65

Poolco

Poolco Ltd BOP I'm Andrew Newitt, owner of Poolco Ltd. I'm an experienced builder and landscaper, my business has been associated with Cascade Pools for over 20 years.

Building swimming pools with the latest and best technology has always been important to me, as I believe in a revolutionary way of building and refurbishing pools that will make families happy.

Cascade Pools has over 45 years in the pool industry, ranging from insulated to free form concrete pools. They pride in providing excellent quality, original designs with no hidden costs to the customer.

for new pools. Aqua Bright has a long-lasting thermo-polymer finish, which helps with the issues pool builders have had in the past with plaster finishes.

This new tool creates an amazingly even pigmentation, that makes swimming pools inviting as well as perfect in colour with great durability. Aqua Bright provides strength, and easy maintenance compared to the older finishes as well as slip, scale and fade resistance while still maintaining its beauty with its architectural colour range.

Eco-friendly, requiring less energy resources, and no end-of-job waste, the Aqua Bright material its recyclable should it ever be removed from the pool and has many more advantages.

Over the past six years I have ventured into the new Aqua Bright Eco finish, this tool is for resurfacing older pools but is also helpful

These new tools and skills I have found during my many years building pools has helped me to build not just any pool, but a piece of perfection that is unique, innovative and has many benefits for future building.

Before applying an Aqua Bright finish.

After applying Aqua Bright in Blue Mist.

TAURANGA POOL SPECIALIST

A three-generation family business, with over 45 years’ worth of experience building pools all over New Zealand Poolco’s work is backed by lifetime guarantees for the pool structures, and a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty for the lining. Their pools have stood the test of time in the harsh UV radiation of New Zealand’s summers.

We also offer aquaBRIGHT ecoFINISH for existing concrete & fiberglass pools, which covers cracks and improves watertightness.

For more information about Pools or any other services contact Andrew today!

Mobile 027 210 2361 66 | B&C - Issue #129

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Earthmoving & Site Preparation

Site inductions Constructions sites are dangerous places, particularly for those unfamiliar with them and the hazards they pose.

first aid and security requirements

A business must provide information, training and instructions to protect both workers and visitors on a construction site. Inductions provide people with the basic knowledge of work health and safety requirements, such as the key risks on site they need to be aware of and what to do in an emergency.

• Control measures for those risks, such as compulsory harness use

What information should be provided at a workplace induction?

Workplace specific inductions vary depending on the type of project and what stage the project is at.

For example, at a less complex workplace, like a single storey house site, an induction could include a short pre-start meeting or on the job training. For large and complex civil or commercial projects, a more detailed induction would be required, for example to explain the emergency response and evacuation processes.

It is good practise to let new works and visitors to the site know about the following key points:

• How to report incidents and hazards • Hazards and risks specific to the workplace, such as working from heights

• Site specific rules that must be complied with, such as wearing personal protective equipment • Safety documents, policies and plans specific to the workplace, for example a traffic management plan.

Task specific training If the person will be working on the site, then you should give them task specific training.

This training provides information to people carrying out a particular job and what hazards, risks and control measures link to that particular task. This training should cover:

• Any relevant legal responsibilities, codes of practice or technical standards that must be followed.

cultural barriers before deciding on your induction process.

• Who is in charge and responsible

How should an induction be carried out?

Where possible a record should be kept of the names of people who have been inducted and trained. This should include the training content, who conducted the training and the date. Make sure the participant acknowledges the training, the best way is to sign the training record.

• Information on the task that worker will be doing • Hazards, risks and control measures involved in carrying out the task

• Incident, emergency and evacuation procedures • The layout of the workplace including entries and exits, location of facilities,

• If relevant, it is good to show workers the Task Analysis/Safe Work Method Statement. Other documents like standard operating procedure or work procedures are also a good idea.

The way an induction can be delivered will depend on various factors, for example the number of people being inducted, the size of the workplace and the complexity of the work health and safety matters to be discussed.

The method of delivering a workplace induction is up to the person in charge as it depends on the size and nature of the project.

It pays to consider any language or

Remember to keep a record

Site Safe has a Site Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) which has many of the templates referred to in this article. Visit: www.sitesafe.org.nz.

Earthmoving Trenching Excavation House Foundations Mulching

Reliability, Workmanship and Product Guaranteed!

WE HAVE THE SKILL, THE EXPERIENCE AND THE MACHINERY TO TACKLE YOUR PROJECT WITH EASE.

021 55 7788 | www.robertlaingcontracting.nz 4 Brick Hill Rd Sawyers Bay, Dunedin

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 67

Ward Demolition

Making sustainable choices for the future Ward Demolition are always actively looking at ways of reducing their carbon footprint.

Expertise Ward Demolition are deconstruction artists. “We span all aspects of demolition, salvage and resource recovery, across the commercial, industrial and residential sectors.

Since inception the company has consistently utilised waste materials, from selling doors and timber that has been recycled back into the residential market, through to its crushing of concrete.

“We deliver projects of every size and complexity. Our integrated supply chain saves you time and cost, while minimising your carbon foot print.”

“It’s been our ethos since we started to try and reuse materials, and you know, you can just go fill a dump hole up, but it’s not the right or smart thing to do,” Ward Demolition founder Pete Ward says.

Innovation “Our projects often encounter challenges that are first of a kind in New Zealand. But we rise to the challenge.

“Concrete has the best aggregate, the best sand and the best steel put in it and the best cement that money could buy. What we do is take big lumps of concrete, like a big rock, and turn them into little rocks and resell it and people reuse it.”

“Our collective experience and specialist knowledge delivers intelligent and pragmatic solutions to the most challenging jobs, executing these safely and efficiently.”

Along with reusing and recycling materials, the company’s yard is also in Onehunga which reduces a lot of their transporting movements around the city.

“We’re not carting it all the way to the Bombay Hills to get a load of metal which is a good thing.”

With more than 25 years in the industry, the company are leaders in the Demolition and Asbestos Industry.

Peter Ward, once the President of the New Zealand Demolition and Asbestos Association (NZDAA), and his regional manager, now the vice president, are continuing to help better the industry by working with the industry.

Whether it’s removal of asbestos and/ or contaminated soil, or whether it be the demolition of a house or commercial building, through to high rise towers, Ward Demolition pride themselves on offering professional advice and project management with a focus on recycling.

Established back in 1987, Ward Demolition started from humble beginnings, with only a flat deck land cruiser, a trailer, hammer, bar and a chainsaw.

It’s been our ethos since we started to try and reuse materials, and you know, you can just go fill a dump hole up, but it’s not the right or smart thing to do.

- Ward Demolition founder Pete Ward

“The first piece of equipment we bought was a bobcat, the second piece was an old truck off EJ Bill, then after that we bought a Kamau Bucyrus excavator with a breaker; we renamed it ‘Old Bucky Cyrus’ and that ended up buying us one of our first bins.

“I bought a big barrel bin; I think I had it an R-Series back and then we haven’t really looked back after that.

“It’s been a crazy old journey, I mean now we’ve probably got 25 trucks and 80 excavators and about half a dozen crushing plants, it’s a lot larger operation.”

Since establishing, the company have worked on many significant projects including their more recent one at an imperial tobacco company in Wellington, where they are in charge of demolishing the buildings and crushing and recycling of the concrete onsite.

The project was expected to be a bit of a ‘first’ for Wellington as they didn’t recycle and reuse concrete a lot.

“It’s going to be quite a cool story - it’s a lot of big buildings and a big job.”

After the imperial tobacco company, the business would move on to a project in Auckland at the Pernod Richard site in Mt Wellington where the team would be in charge of tidying the plant up.

It’s been a crazy old journey, I mean now we’ve probably got 25 trucks and 80 excavators and about half a dozen crushing plants, it’s a lot larger operation.

- Ward Demolition founder Pete Ward

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“The bottling operations have moved off shore and so they’re tidying the plant up, some of the places have got to be stripped out so it will be a whole lot of concrete heavy work.”

When it comes to the company’s growth and development, Peter says its’s come down to working hard, having a great team and being innovative.

“I’m looking at the trailers and going okay, how much pay load can you put on that, what can you do there.

“I mean we’re starting to look at the fuel burn in pieces of plant and that’s sort of what you’ve got to start doing.

“The same things going to apply when you knock something down; the law of gravity says it will fall down, so how we clean it up, mop it up and get better and get more tonnage on or more volume in - you know you’ll get better bang for our buck - which means that we can stay competitive in the market and that’s going to be the key to it.

“We’re going to have to do more for less, and try to reduce our carbon foot print by thinking smarter."

Ward Demolition 13-17 Miami Parade Penrose Auckland (09) 622 3111 demo@ward-demolition.co.nz www.ward-demolition.co.nz

Ward Demolition

Beacon Safety Ltd Beacon Safety Ltd is delighted to announce that we have acquired ARE(NZ) Ltd, the largest supplier of asbestos removal equipment in New Zealand.

Beacon Safety Ltd is a leading manufacturer of specialist equipment, distributed worldwide. As part of our new business model, we have launched a far more price conscious equipment hire system for our valued customers. You are now dealing directly with the manufacturer.

ARENZ was created as there were no companies who supported removalists with the appropriate safe and legally required equipment to handle asbestos, and therefore the health and safety of people were at risk.

After the Christchurch earthquakes, when there were several new companies involved in asbestos removal, we were not only supplying equipment, we were actively involved in upskilling our customers and passing on knowledge on how to operate and comply with standards.

Leave all the service worries and DOP maintenance to us. Your company will no longer need to have unused equipment

stored in the shed with the DOP certificate expiring while waiting for the next contract.

In the past, many of our customers have commented that it is a cost on their business to store and keep maintained under utilised equipment. You now can leave that problem to us. If you need a bit of extra equipment for that one off big job, you do not need to buy it. Just hire it. Have a look at these prices, you won’t get better than these. The prices are per week NOT per day.

The cost of hiring does not include consumables such as the tool kit for the vacuums, the pleat filters for the NPU’s or the water filters for the decontamination shower. On hiring a vacuum, purchase a tool kit, when you are finished, keep it secured in a 200um bag until the next time you hire a vacuum.

"

Terms and conditions apply. Give us a call at any of our three depots to talk to our sales team who will happily help you out. Or have a look at our website www.arenz.co.nz under the tab HIRE and have a look at our full list of hire equipment.

We take pride in operating with exceedingly high ethics, and will never deviate from these.

These standards apply to all areas of the business. So, while our customers are a top priority, our staff at Beacon-ARENZ are treated with the exact same level of respect and professionalism and we will never deviate from this.

The same applies to suppliers and other industry stakeholders, they are all highly valued partners, part of the wider BeaconARENZ family and we hope you’ll join them.

As part of our new business model, we have launched a far more price conscious equipment hire system for our valued customers. You are now dealing directly with the manufacturer.

" EQUIPMENT HIRE

www.arenz.co.nz FROM

$95

FROM

$795

PER WEEK

PER WEEK (exc GST)

FROM

$295 PER WEEK (exc GST)

H Class Vacuum Cleaner

NPU

(Negative Pressure Unit)

3 Stage Modular Decontamination Unit & Water Management System

FROM

$75

PER WEEK (exc GST)

Beacon NPU5000 Roving Head & Spigot

We take pride in providing the cutting edge of asbestos removal equipment, so you can trust us to provide you with exactly what you are looking for.

CHRISTCHURCH • P: 03 348 3133 254 Annex Road Middleton

AUCKLAND • P: 09 570 9604 2/34 Hannigan Drive, Mt Wellington

HEAD OFFICE – WELLINGTON • P: 04 568 4140 Unit 9b Seaview Road, Lower Hutt

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 69

Southern Towers

Southern Towers a new name, but not new to the game Southern Towers may be a new name on the tower crane scene, but managing director Graham Millar has worked the length of the country erecting and operating cranes for over 25 years, and has arguably the soundest local knowledge for what tower crane will suit your project the best.

Established in late 2018 and aptly named Southern Towers, the company fills a much needed gap for tower crane operations, maintenance and services throughout the lower South Island.

“We have hoists and crane loading platforms for hire for your next project as well as qualified operators and dogmen available to come with the tower crane as well,” Graham says.

“We work with clients step by step through the entire process to ensure they have the right crane for the job and are not operating uneconomically.”

Southern Towers is new to the tower crane industry but managing director Graham Millar has worked the length of the country erecting and operating cranes for over 25 years and has a sound knowledge of what tower crane will suit your project the best.

Address: Queenstown, Otago, NZ Phone: 027 486 2460 Email: graham@southerntowers.co.nz www.southerntowers.co.nz

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Southern Towers’ target market includes medium to large-sized construction companies operating across any industry.

Managing director Graham Millar’s considerable experience in the industry means he and his team have the knowledge-base to know what tower crane will suit your project the best.

An exciting development for Southern Towers, earmarked for the horizon, to strengthen its service offering, is the branch into hoists.

Hoists and exterior lifts are used to scale workers and materials safely and efficiently up and down the outside of a building and keep projects and jobsites running smoothly and safely, saving time and making workers’ lives easier.

The energy saved by your workers here is then utilised more importantly elsewhere on site in delivering your project on time and to standard.

Contact Southern Towers today for your tower crane requirements.

Southern Towers Ltd 027 486 2460 graham@southerntowers.co.nz www.southerntowers.co.nz

Cranes to hire LEIBHERR 71EC Hammerhead Crane Max Capacity 5.6T Max Boom Length 45M RAIMONDI MR81+3 Hammerhead Crane Max Capacity 5T Max Boom Length 51.8M RAIMONDI LR60 Luffing Crane Max Capacity 5T Max Boom Length 36M LIEBHERR 34K Self-Erecting Crane Max Capacity 4T Max Boom Length 33M LIEBHERR 280EC-H Litronic High-Top Crane Max Capacity 12,000KG Max Boom Length 75M

Hoists to hire GEDA SINGLE AND TWIN PH3240 Personal/Material Construction Hoist GEDA 3700Z/ZPS Personal/Material Construction Hoist ELSA H20 Max Height 220M Net Load 2000kg YSC650A SERIES CRANEDECKS Crane Deck 2200 Crane Deck 2800 Crane Deck 3200 Rear rollers for ease of installation Harness anchor points Safe working loads of up to 5 Tonnes Vastly reduced overall costs on comparable products

Surface Tiling

Surface Tiling We are tiling and waterproofing specialists who can take care of all your tiling needs, from residential to commercial, to pool surrounds, courtyards and more.

We can complete jobs such as bathroom floors, bathroom walls, showers, kitchen splashbacks, kitchen floors, entrance ways, laundries, pool surrounds, courtyards, patios and any area that requires tiling or waterproofing.

We believe our work speaks for itself and are proud to have featured on The Block NZ, working on the winning house in the 2017 series.

We will work with you to achieve your desired outcome and have extensive experience in renovation and new build work.

We offer obligation-free quotes on all services as well as expert advice on any projects. We are trained and licensed applicators of leading BRANZ (meets building code requirements) approved waterproofing systems Ardex, Mapei.

We are also BCITO qualified and members of TANZ as licensed professional and qualified tilers.

"

Our services Residential and housing We can take care of all your residential and housing tiling needs from bathrooms and kitchens to pool areas. We have knowledge in a variety of different tiling methods including stonework and granite and have the best tools and materials to get the job done.

New builds We offer tiling and waterproofing services for commercial and residential projects.

We understand that building can be a stressful time, so we work hard to ensure a stress-free time when it comes to tiling from the design stages through to execution. We are Auckland Council approved assessors in waterproofing, too.

Renovations We have the ability to transform any area with a flawless finish. Whether you’re extending your home or redoing your kitchen or bathroom, we can work with you to achieve your desired outcome.

We believe no job is too big or small and while we specialise in residential work, we also offer our services on commercial work, too.

Bathrooms Tiling and waterproofing are at the heart of every bathroom, and getting the job done right is important to prevent any future (and potentially costly) issues.

Kitchens If you’re looking for a polished and sleek finish for your kitchen, tiling is the option for you. We can work with you from the design stage to come up with the best possible outcome and offer top-quality water proofing services to ensure the longevity of any work we carry out.

Splashbacks No kitchen is complete without a splashback, and there’s no better option than a tiled splashback. We can complete commercial and residential jobs and can work on new builds, renovations and extensions.

Get in touch with Tony today for more information on the services we offer and what we can do for you.

Provideing a wide range of tiling and waterproofing services we are proud to be East Auckland’s most referred tiler. We can complete jobs such as bathroom floors, bathroom walls, showers, kitchen splashbacks, kitchen floors, entrance ways, laundries, pool surrounds, courtyards, patios and any area that requires tiling or waterproofing.

We are trained and licensed applicators of leading ‘branz’ (meets building code requirements) approved waterproofing systems Ardex, Mapei.

"

www.surfacetiling.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 71

Future Proofing – Weathertightness

Sealing the deal Among other things, key traits of a healthy home are that it’s warm and dry, which is often determined by the home’s weathertightness.

Given New Zealand’s reputation, healthy homes are hard to come by. However, fed up with leaky homes, poor ventilation and heating, more Kiwis are questioning the status quo in hope of a better future.

The weathertightness of a building can have huge ramifications as argued in the case against James Hardie, the former-owner of Harditex cladding.

Not only can a building’s weathertightness determine the building’s overall wellbeing, but ours as well.

A long time coming, the court case involving Harditex cladding is just one example of New Zealanders questioning what’s on offer in regard to the weathertightness of their homes and buildings.

The data’s in Weathertightness can affect the health of those who depend most on us like children.

With that in mind, BRANZ’s recent partnership with the University of Auckland longitudinal study Growing Up in New Zealand.

In the study, children were asked to record temperature and humidity readings at home during bedtime and at school over two days.

After collecting the data from study participants, researchers were able to determine that about one out of seven children participating in the study were living in spaces that were either too cold or damp which negatively affected their health.

Although the percentage of participants shakes out to be about 14 percent, it doesn’t include other people living in the home – in other words, more New Zealanders can be affected than represented in this study.

The study also found that to maintain a healthy humidity level of 50 percent, bedtime temperatures should range from 19-25°C.

BRANZ supported the University of Auckland’s longitudinal study Growing Up in New Zealand.

In the study, children were asked to record temperature and humidity readings at home during bedtime and at school over two days.

With the data that was collected, researchers were able to determine that about one out of seven children participating in the study lived in cold and damp spaces which negatively affected their health.

Researchers also concluded that to maintain a healthy humidity level of 50 percent, bedtime temperatures should range from 19-25°C.

72 | B&C - Issue #129

Inadequate housing is influential on our overall health.

According to Environmental Health Intelligence New Zealand (EHINZ), indoor temperatures below 16°C increases the risk of respiratory infections while indoor temperatures below 12°C stresses the cardiovascular system.

Damp indoor conditions promotes mould growth which also increases the of respiratory infections.

EHINZ attributes low indoor temperatures and dampness to a lack of ventilation, insulation and poor heating in New Zealand homes.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

There’s the saying ‘health is wealth’ so why wouldn’t we want to set up New Zealand’s children with a lifetime of wealth by providing them the healthiest start possible?

Building a healthier future As many reading this already know, there are a number of factors which contribute to a home or building’s liveability.

One of the claims made in the aforementioned court case was that the cladding in question let moisture in without giving it a way out which could have been prevented if it was properly tested before it was available to purchase.

Unnecessary moisture can harm the building and its occupants and its consequences can grow in severity depending on how long the problem persists. Excessive moisture can cause homes and buildings to rot and deteriorate prematurely and increases the likeliness of respiratory infections in building users.

Although there are immediate benefits to improving building standards like increased building longevity and improved health outcomes for building users, there are also long-term benefits to addressing the lack of weathertightness in New Zealand homes.

In early June, MBIE published its Building for Climate Change submissions summary which includes respondents’ views on transforming operational efficiency, directly affecting the quality of indoor environments.

In the summary, MBIE reports that most respondents supported the idea of introducing thermal performance requirements.

The reasoning behind many respondents’ support includes a desire for New Zealand to catch up with international standards, improving health outcomes for building occupants and the reduction of costs associated with heating and cooling buildings.

When asked how the new operational efficiency requirements should be implemented, most respondents agreed that a stepped approach should be taken.

The question of when the new requirements are implemented is another topic in itself with over half of respondents saying the initial goal of 2035 is too large of timeframe to implement the new requirements.

It’s suggested that the sense of urgency is due to the Government’s declaration of a climate emergency and the goals listed in the Paris Climate Agreement, ultimately to the benefit of New Zealanders’ health and living situations.

Unnecessary moisture can harm the building and its occupants and its consequences can grow in severity depending on how long the problem persists. Excessive moisture can cause homes and buildings to rot and deteriorate prematurely and increases the likeliness of respiratory infections in building users.

Future Proofing – Weathertightness

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 73

Fire Protection

Housing flammable and oxidising substances Buildings, doors and vents must be fire resistant when flammable or oxidising substances are stored or used inside.

You need to comply with Part 11 of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017 as well as the building code to get your building consent.

resistance rating through to type 3 with the highest.

Compliance certificate requirements

If you store or use flammable liquids and gases inside a building, then you can work out the separation distances using Part 11 and Schedule 12 of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017.

If your work site has flammable or oxidising substances in excess of the threshold quantity a location compliance certificate is required. In order to get a location compliance certificate, the building construction and related separation distances must be compliant.

Separation distances All buildings or areas where flammable or oxidising substances are used or stored must be separated from other buildings (including your neighbours) or areas where people may be present.

Regulations

If you store flammable aerosols, flammable solids, or oxidising substances inside a building, then you can work out the separation distances using the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017, specifically: • Flammable aerosols – regulations 11.23 – 11.27 • Flammable solids – regulations 10.28 and 10.29

Other factors considered in determining separation distances include, but are not limited to, the quantity of the hazardous substances, the size of the containers, whether the substances are being used or stored. More information on separation distances can be found on the WorkSafe website.

The higher the fire resistance rating of your building, the smaller the separation distance needed. Other factors which affect your separation distance include: • The degree of hazard of the hazardous substances • The quantity of the hazardous substances • The size of the containers • Whether the substances are being used or stored • The activities in adjacent buildings.

Building types The building requirements below apply regardless of the amounts of substances present. For example, when storing hazardous substances, ‘storing’ means the packages and containers remain closed.

If you store flammable substances, then there are four types of buildings that can be used: types A, B, C and D; type A has the lowest fire resistance rating through to type D with the highest.

When using hazardous substances, ‘using’ means the hazardous substance packages and containers are open.

• Oxidising substances – regulations 12.12 (class 5.1.1 and 5.1.2) and 12.37 (class 5.2).

Reducing your separation distance If you cannot meet your separation distance as set out in the regulations but you have other suitable means to minimise the risk, then you can apply to WorkSafe for an exemption from the required separation distance or building type requirements.

When you apply, we will consider all relevant factors including fixed firefighting equipment as well as the fire resistance rating of walls that are protecting surrounding areas.

New buildings are expected to be designed to meet the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017.

Content kindly provided by and under the copyright of WorkSafe New Zealand.

More information can be found at www.worksafe.govt.nz

If you use flammable substances then there are three types of buildings that can be used: types 1, 2 and 3; type 1 has the lowest fire 74 | B&C - Issue #129

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In the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017, four different building types are listed ‘A’ through ‘D’ for buildings that store flammable substances.

Buildings classified as type A have the lowest fire rating while buildings classified as type D are of the highest fire rating.

Building types are important in determining separation distances between buildings and neighbouring properties.

Other factors considered in determining separation distances include, but are not limited to, the quantity of the hazardous substances, the size of the containers, whether the substances are being used or stored. More information on separation distances can be found on the WorkSafe website.

According to WorkSafe, if you use or import gas cylinders, fire extinguishers, aerosols or non-refillable gas canisters, you must comply with the Part 15 of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017.

All cylinders imported into New Zealand for the first time are required to be compliance certified, or be UN cylinders as noted above. The steps for compliance certification are: 1. Design verification.

2. Pre-commissioning certification.

3. Import clearance compliance certification.

These steps are undertaken by compliance certifiers approved for each type of certification.

Low pressure fire extinguishers do not need compliance certification, but are required to have a fire extinguisher registration number (FERN) under a product certification scheme.

Fire Protection

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 75

Toop Aluminium 2020 Ltd

Toop Aluminium 2020 Ltd Toop Aluminium 2020 Ltd, formally Toop Aluminium, was established in 1992.

We have grown a passion for aluminium joinery always exploring new and adventurous ways to provide quality products to our customers.

The Hastings Police Station in particular won the Warren and Mahoney Civic and Arts Property Award, where the judges said the new facility “creates a modern and welcoming environment that enables the New Zealand Police to work more efficiently and collaboratively with the public they serve”.

With over 30 years combined experience in window and door fabrication our team are excited about design and fabrication.

The Fisher brand through Altus Windows and Doors systems is a brand that has provided over 60 years of production in the New Zealand aluminium joinery industry.

Proving to keep pure with the times, they have introduced design innovations that are known for their strength, smooth function, stunning beauty, and modern engineering.

Toop Aluminium 2020 Ltd has more recently been a part of some truly iconic projects throughout Hawke’s Bay including the MGA museum, Hastings Health Centre, Hastings Opera Plaza, Hastings Police Station and Porters Hotel in Havelock North. Keep an eye out for their joinery next time you are driving past.

The suites we proudly manufacture include Pacific Residential, Thermal and Architectural, Atlantic 48, All Seasons and Baltic Shopfront just to mention a few.

Having such a diverse range of systems available ensures we can be flexible and innovative in our design providing a range of options for our customers.

Proving to keep pure with the times, they have introduced design innovations that are known for their strength, smooth function, stunning beauty, and modern engineering.

We provide the best quality window and door solutions for renovations all the way up to high end commercial products.

Within these systems, we can offer many window and door solutions including awning/ casement windows, bifold/sliding windows, entrance doors, French/hinged doors, bifold/ foldback doors, and stacker/slider doors.

Our Eurosliders and Eurostackers are one of our most popular doors offering strength, style, and simplicity. Patented with the ‘Smoothtech’ sill system these doors are designed to provide seamless indoor/outdoor flow featuring easy to clean tracks, effortless operation, increased weathertightness and over cladding and cavity options. Another popular door is our stacker doors with LevelStep sill which offers a flush meeting point to the flooring reducing risk of tripping, an enhanced visual flow, and no drop-off in performance. The ultimate in streamlined living.

We have a passionate team who offer design and technical support in your decisionmaking process who follow the project through to the finish. Call us now for a free quote for all your aluminium joinery needs.

The suites we proudly manufacture include Pacific Residential, Thermal and Architectural, Atlantic 48, All Seasons and Baltic Shopfront just to mention a few. Having such a diverse range of systems available ensures we can be flexible and innovative in our design providing a range of options for our customers.

CREATORS OF THE ORIGINAL RANCHSLIDER

We have over 30 years of combined knowledge and experience in manufacturing of Aluminium Windows and Doors from renovations through to high end commercial products.

Our Windows and Doors are designed to make the most of what comes naturally, seeking to make the best use of light and the natural environment, while also providing the practical benefits of lower maintenance, longer life and better security.

Call in and see the team for your free measure and quote.

www.fisherwindows.co.nz

CONTACT US! 06-879 9900 76 | B&C - Issue #129

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Kinetic Electrical

Kinetic Electrical Palmerston North and Whanganui Kinetic Electrical…

Smarter These two branches of the Kinetic Electrical Franchise, now owned and operated by Ricky Lee, are cementing their name within the industry throughout the regions.

Just like other franchises, their ability to acquire goods at better rates due to the volume of products the group uses overall, has been a big selling point of the work the team has quoted and then undertaken.

Ultimately, this means that the customer is receiving better bang for their buck while still being delivered a top-quality job.

Ricky has been known for his direct approach, solution-based focus, can-do attitude and quick response times, all while delivering the very latest in technology and offering energy-efficient solutions as part of these packages.

The team is currently completing work on new homes, commercial shop fit outs, industrial automations projects and solar energy installs, along with some heat pumps.

“Even the farmer down the road has also started using us,” one of Ricky’s team members states.

The team has expanded and now employs 10 staff members between these businesses, and also engages in labour sharing between the businesses.

Ricky is committed to the expansion and is dedicated to the company’s growth.

With three apprentices now onboard, the team is committed to developing its staff to be sort-after electricians of the future, creating an operation that is “smarter” some would say.

Speaking to Ricky about the modern-day challenges of business, such as having a wide range of products along with an ever changing technology platform, he simply replied: “All of what you have just mentioned is all about technology and utilising it to its full potential; you go with it, as it progresses, or it’s going to cost you more in the long run.

“From our business point of view this is why we aligned with Kinetic Electrical (the franchise), to ensure our operations utilise sound technology that puts us in front of our customers with a point of difference by utilising this to the level we do.

“From an installation point of view, we like to think we are at the forefront of this technology and already we are seeing an increase in Google home installations, along with more requests for smarter equipment including automating existing machinery.

“Making something run better, faster and to ultimately be more productive, really is music to my ears when completing these tasks for our awesome customers, and we have room to take on more customers and more jobs.”

Ricky is happy to meet with any potential customer to discuss what it is they may need from the company’s electrical expertise.

Free quotes for all potential customers and a team that’s really easy to get hold of is why they seem to be enjoying all the success and growth that they are experiencing.

So, if you have an electrical issue you need tending to, or maybe just an idea about an electrical job, then get on the phone and give Ricky a call - he certainly will have his team on this straight away!

Industrial - Commercial - Domestic Automation - Rural Kinetic Electrical…

Smarter

www.kinetic-electric.co.nz

3 New Homes/Renovations 3 Commercial /Shop Fit Out 3 Security and Data 3 HVAC High Wall/Ducted 3 Maintenance and Medical 3 Industrial/Automation

PALMERSTON NORTH | P: 06 355 3399 | M: 027 222 7425 WHANGANUI | P: 06 345 5552 | M: 027 222 7425 www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 77

Real Estate

What you need to know about changes to the Residential Tenancies Act RTA Changes On 11 February 2021, the second phase of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020 came into effect, reflecting the fact that more people are renting than ever before.

or has been sold with vacant possession; or extensive alterations, refurbishments, repairs or redevelopment of the premises are to be carried out; or the landlord requires the premises as a principal place of residence for themselves or a family member.

The final changes, regarding ending a tenancy due to family violence or physical assault, will take effect by 11 August 2021 at the latest.

A tenant can still terminate a periodic tenancy by giving at least 28 days’ notice (up from the previous 21 days).

90-day notice

Additionally, all requests to assign a tenancy (or pass on the lease to another tenant) must be considered, and the landlord cannot unreasonably decline. If the tenancy agreement was entered into prior to 11 February 2021 and prohibits assigning another tenant, this agreement will still stand.

Landlords and property managers can no longer give a no-cause 90-day notice to terminate a tenancy.

Fixed-term to Periodic Tenancies

Some of the key changes include:

To end a tenancy based on anti-social behaviour, the tenant must have been issued three written notices for anti-social behaviour within a 90-day period and an application must be made to the Tenancy Tribunal with evidence of this behaviour.

There are a number of other valid reasons for terminating a periodic tenancy after 11 February 2021, which include but are not limited to: the tenant has been at least five working days late with their rent payments on three separate occasions within a 90-day period; the property is going on the market

Fixed-term tenancy agreements now convert to periodic tenancies unless a landlord gives notice using the reasons listed above or in the RTA guidelines for periodic tenancies; a tenant gives notice for any reason at least 28 days before the end of the tenancy; or both parties agree to extend, renew, or end the fixed term tenancy.

Minor changes to the property Tenants now also have more freedom in making minor changes to the premises, as

landlords must not unreasonably withhold consent for any minor renovations or alterations.

Minor changes could include; shelving, baby gates, picture hooks, curtains or window coverings, securing furniture or appliances to protect against earthquake risk or to make a property child safe.

If the landlord consents to the changes, they can impose reasonable conditions, for example moving the shelf slightly to avoid wiring behind the wall. Landlords must respond to requests in writing within 21 days.

These minor changes must be remediated to substantially the same condition when a tenant leaves the premises at the end of a tenancy.

Other changes Other changes that came into effect on 11 February 2021 were fibre broadband

installation, ending rental bidding, annual rental increases, privacy and access to justice, assignment of a tenancy, landlord records, enforcement of the RTA and changes in the Tenancy Tribunal’s jurisdiction and administrative powers.

For a full summary of changes, check out the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and Tenancy Services Summary of Changes Factsheet: www.tenancy.govt.nz/assets/ Uploads/files/residential-tenanciesamendment-act-2020-factsheet.pdf.

The next deadline for the Healthy Homes Standards is 1 July 2021 – for more information on these changes, visit: www.tenancy.govt. nz/about-tenancy-services/news/deadlineextended-for-healthy-homes-standardscompliance-statement.

Article by Wendy Alexander, acting chief executive at the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ).

Continued decline in housing affordability

Successfully listing and selling Real Estate in Huntly and the surrounding area’s for the past 7 years. Licensed salesperson since 2013.

Since the last bi-annual CoreLogic NZ Housing Affordability Report in August 2020, the economy and property market have undergone largely unexpected and dramatic upturns.

measures, and the growing ‘divide’ between the wealth of existing homeowners and those that are struggling to get their first home has quickly become a very hot political topic.

As the recession has ended, unemployment has started to fall again, and average property values across New Zealand surged up by 6.1 percent in the final three months of last year, and by 11.1 percent in the whole of 2020.

Nationally, the house price/value to income ratio climbed from 6.5 in Q3 2020 to 6.8 in Q4. That is the highest level since late 2016 (also 6.8), equalling the record since at least 2004. On the back of rapid growth in property values in the final few months of 2020, many local areas of the country have moved beyond cyclical highs.

Price-to-income ratio back to 2016 peak levels The CoreLogic NZ Housing Affordability Report for Q4 2020 presented to government today shows the ratio of house price/value to income has grown further following the last report in Q2 2020, and is at its equal highest since datagathering began in 2004.

20+ years in the Real Estate industry speaks for itself.

CoreLogic senior property economist, Kelvin Davidson says, “Although incomes have fared better than might have been expected given Covid, average household incomes have not kept pace with property value growth. Indeed, the latest Infometrics figures show a rise of just 1.3 percent in average household income in Q4 2020.

“The net result is that housing affordability has begun to deteriorate again on each of our four

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“To get the true picture of housing affordability in New Zealand you have to look at the priceto-income ratio, and based on the historical data we have, houses are as unaffordable as they’ve been at any time for at least 17 years, maybe longer.”

The rare exception amongst the main centres has been Christchurch, Kelvin says.

“The Christchurch market has been balanced for the past five to six years, with the right number of houses being built to meet population growth, certainly when you take into account high construction activity in the neighbouring areas in Selwyn and Waimakariri.

“This is a good test case for what happens when supply is allowed to adjust. Indeed, we are now seeing signs that people are recognising the relative affordability in Christchurch and considering it a better place to buy as an investor or owner-occupier.”

Real Estate

CK & CO Realty Diane is the director of CK & Co Realty, a small & specialised team of like-minded, highly experienced salespeople who share one goal: To achieve for our clients the best possible result, delivered with the best possible service.

CK & Co believes this is accomplished by having the right people and the right culture.

Diane has achieved a vision of a business of being a little different to other companies in the area.

“We don't want to be the largest; we just want to offer the best service possible – friendly, honest, genuine and results driven!”

Staying connected to and supporting the community has always been an integral part of how Diane operates personally and professionally. CK & Co is visible in many local events and organisations.

The team brings 30 years of experience to each and every sale. We know how to price, position, present and market your property to achieve maximum market impact (and maximum market return). We act in your interest, keeping you informed every step of the way, while still treating our buyers fairly.

When you choose CK & Co, you don’t just get one agent; you get a strong collaborative team striving to deliver results beyond expectations. You can call any one of us and know that you are getting the best.

We also offer free home-styling on all of our homes – ensuring each property we sell is well presented.

Below is feedback from two of our very happy clients:

The team brings 30 years of experience to each and every sale. We know how to price, position, present and market your property to achieve maximum market impact (and maximum market return).

- CK & Co Realty director, Dianne Cummings

“On behalf of my kids we would like to thank you for your professionalism & going the extra mile in helping us sell our house. We have appreciated the late nights you have come home to present the offers & provide some guidance when we were unsure. You are an outstanding duo and we have enjoyed having you both as our real estate agents we felt special & well taken care of. Thanks again and keep doing what you do best helping families feel part of the process & of course selling houses.”

-Anna, Lower Hutt

“Having had the pleasure in the last two years of buying a substantial home and selling it and two other properties with Diane, I have only praise and respect for Diane and the non-judgemental and informed professionalism she shows to all parties to effect results. Having had a long association with property transactions and real estate agents, Diane is one of the rare ones who has genuine experience and, a rare commodity today, integrity.”

-Graham

Diane Cummings Diane is a highly experienced award winning agent who has a reputation for managing the sales process with an open and warm personality whilst providing professional, accurate and honest advice on selling or purchasing a property.

Contact me for your obligation-free appraisal today

M 027 603 2513 E diane@ckandco.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 79

Height Safety – Working at Heights

Keeping scaffold use and management safe Many risks associated with erecting a scaffold also apply to people using and working on it. Regular inspections of the scaffold are essential.

People using the completed scaffold should follow any special requirements outlined on the handover certificate or scaffold tag.

Pre-start checks and regular inspections Pre-start checks before a scaffold is first used for the day should identify any risks. Pre-start checks on suspended scaffold must be done by a competent person and include a visual check and load test.

Details of the inspection must be recorded and signed by the person who carried out the inspection. They can just be a checklist of main findings and comments.

The inspection record or register must be kept on site, and for convenience can be included on or combined with the scaffolding tag.

Scaffolding that does not satisfactorily meet inspection requirements, or has been damaged, must be taken out of service immediately and may not be used until repairs have been done. A scaffolding tag should be hung on the scaffold at access points to advise other people of the status of the scaffold.

Physical means to prevent access should also be considered.

Repairs must only be done by someone qualified to do so. Bent tube must not be straightened for reuse – it must be cut out and/or discarded.

Repairs and alterations to the scaffold Repairs and alterations must only be done by a competent person. Before carrying out repairs or alterations isolate the area and ensure scaffolding tags on all access points display the correct status of the scaffold.

When carrying out alterations or repairs ensure: • the scaffold is stable • the status of the scaffold is displayed clearly • repairs comply with the manufacturer and/ or supplier’s information

Damaged or non-compliant scaffold If the scaffold cannot be repaired, it should have the stair or ladder access removed if possible, and/or tags attached to all access points (where the means of access cannot

R

be removed) or on visible locations on the scaffold, stating the status of the scaffold. The scaffold should be dismantled and disposed of.

• the scaffold is not used until repairs have been completed and the scaffold has been inspected by a competent person.

JOB. #

ACTION TAGS LTD

SAFE

GO SCAFFOLD ERECTED BY COMPETENT SCAFFOLDER (UNDER 5M) ©Action Tags

TM

OUT OF

MONTHLY INSPECTIONS

SERVICE

SITE SERIES 3

SITE SERIES 3

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JOB #

SAFETY CHECKLIST

BELOW COMPONENTS SHOULD BE CHECKED PRIOR TO ACCESSING SCAFFOLD: • Supporting structure/foundation • Standards Ledgers/transoms & putlogs • Ties and braces • Couplers • Working platforms • Planks • Guardrails and toeboards • Stairs and ladders If scaffold does not comply with this checklist, contact: Name ......................................................

Email ......................................................

Ph. ..............................................................

CLIENT: .........................................................................................................................

AUTHORISED BY: ............................................................................................................

DATE: ..............................................................................................................................

COMMENTS: ...............................................................................................................................

CONTACT: ........................................................................................................................

(Name)

INSPECTION SIGN OFFS ON REVERSE

SITE SERIES 3

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JOB #

SAFETY CHECKLIST DO NOT USE EDGE PROTECTION & SEE YOUR SUPERVISOR IF:

JOB #

SAFE

SCAFFOLDING COMPANY: _________________________________________ BUILT BY: _________________________________DATE: _________________ SITE/CLIENT: _____________________________________________________ CLIENT APPROVED/HANDOVER: ____________________________________ CONTACT #: ___________________ ORDER/JOB NO: _________________

• Clamps are loose • Handrails positioned at incorrect height • Exposed area not properly handrailed • SWL exceeded • Access is unsafe • Toe/kick board required

LOCATION OF SCAFFOLD: ________________________________________ COMMENTS/LIMITATIONS: _________________________________________ NO. OF LIFTS: _________ BAYS: _______ WORKING PLATFORMS: ______ Light (225kg) Freestanding

Medium (450kg) Suspended

Heavy (675kg) Cantilever

Special Mobile

If scaffold does not comply with this checklist, contact:

ROOF EDGE PROTECTION

Name ................................................

Email ......................................................

Ph. .........................................................

Standard requirements for work on a scaffold include:

Common risks when working on the scaffold include:

• A safety helmet and appropriate safety footwear should be worn

• slips and trips on slippery surfaces, decking with trip hazards or obstructed working and access platforms

• Clear access of at least 450 mm should be maintained on all access and working platforms

www.actiontags.co.nz

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Scaffolding that does not satisfactorily meet inspection requirements, or has been damaged, must be taken out of service immediately and may not be used until repairs have been done. A scaffolding tag should be hung on the scaffold at access points to advise other people of the status of the scaffold. Physical means to prevent access should also be considered.

• The scaffold should be kept clear of rubbish and excess material. Harmful substances such as silica dust should be prevented from collecting on the scaffold • Inspections of the scaffold and associated equipment should be carried out regularly to ensure the scaffold is safe to use. Records of inspections should be kept

CLIENT: .............................................................................. JOB: ..............................

SCAFFOLDER: .................................................................... SIGN: .............................

(Name)

Guardrails must be constructed to withstand someone falling against them. They must be able to withstand a load of 600N (62kg) in any direction without deflecting more than 100mm and withstand a force of 1200N (123kg) without failing.

Note: Scaffolding over 5.0m or more is notifiable work and the erection/dismantling or alterations including the movement of planks, can only be carried out under the supervision of a Scaffolder holding a current Certificate of Competency.

INSPECTION SIGN OFFS ON REVERSE

Scaffold Notifiable

YES

NO

SITE SERIES 3

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JOB #

SAFETY CHECKLIST DO NOT USE SCAFFOLD & SEE YOUR SUPERVISOR IF:

SAFE

• Scaffold is not on hard level surface • Check if counter weights required • Structure overloaded • Wheel locks not functional • Structure within limits of overhead lines • Slab edge/Step down unprotected • Always relocate by manpower If scaffold does not comply with this checklist, contact: Name ......................................................

Email ......................................................

Ph. ..............................................................

MOBILE SCAFFOLD

CLIENT: ................................................... DATE: ..................... JOB: ........................

SCAFFOLD DUTY per BAY: 225kg 450kg 675kg Special Duty ..............

SCAFFOLDER: .................................................................... SIGN: .............................

(Name)

INSPECTION SIGN OFFS ON REVERSE

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• Tools and equipment should be in good working condition • Repairs and alterations should be carried out by a competent person.

All scaffolds that have been repaired or altered should be inspected • Scaffolding that is no longer safe to use should be taken out of service immediately until repairs have been done. It should be tagged to warn people and access points should be closed off.

• falling through gaps in poorly constructed platforms or through unprotected openings • using tools incorrectly, or defective or badly maintained tools • carrying or transporting tools and materials • hazardous substances such as asbestos and silica dust contaminating the scaffolding • falling from the scaffold (e.g., due to inadequate edge protection or climbing the outside of the scaffold) • failure of scaffold components • scaffold collapses (e.g., due to overloading, unauthorised alterations, incorrect construction or design).

Height Safety – Working at Heights

Scaffold & Edge Protection Dismantling the scaffold

When dismantling scaffolding:

A risk assessment should be done before dismantling the scaffold. Risks when dismantling scaffolding may be different to risks when erecting scaffolding and should be considered separately.

• Dismantle by reversing the procedures required to erect the scaffold

Before dismantling the scaffold, exclusion zones should be set up with warning notices for other workers and public protection as required.

If the scaffold was used for removal of asbestos or work with hazardous material, obtain a clearance certificate from the user before dismantling.

In addition, ensure the scaffold is free of loose material and debris. Inspect the scaffold for stability and plan for dismantling.

Also, ensure all debris and rubbish has been removed from the scaffold before beginning to dismantle it.

• Remove ties, braces, ledgers, transoms, planks and guardrails, followed by standards as joint positions are reached • If a building or structure is being demolished, dismantle the scaffold so that no more than four metres of scaffold is left above the last vertical tie point at any time

Local Residential

• If a scaffold is being partially dismantled, make sure that the remaining section is stable • Lower materials down. Do not drop or throw them • Do not overload lower lifts with dismantled component (some components may be temporarily placed on lower lifts but must not be allowed to build up) • Install temporary raking tubes or ties to stabilise the scaffold if necessary • Remove all scaffolding materials. Do not leave components on roofs or projecting cornices, etc.

Content kindly provided by and under the copyright of WorkSafe New Zealand.

More information can be found at www.worksafe.govt.nz.

021 356 429 manager@absolutescaffoldingltd.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 81

Apprenticeships

Breaking the stereotype Before Meg Laurenson started her building apprenticeship she had never held a drill, had no idea how to load a nail gun and she was terrified of heights.

wage subsidy contributed to Leo’s (LM Built managing director) willingness to bring me on - as a female in a typically male dominated industry with zero building experience I was very lucky to be given a shot.”

“I really was the most hopeless candidate to be a building apprentice, everything about me was just not built for building.”

Meg’s advice for someone considering an apprenticeship is to ensure that you are keen to learn and enthusiastic about it.

Now working as a carpentry apprentice at LM Built, the 25-year-old Human Resources graduate is working for an industry she would never have considered without the Government’s free apprenticeship training scheme.

“I’ve noticed that what my team seem to hate more than anything and horror stories of past apprentices that didn’t work out are about anybody who was lazy or just not keen to learn, a good attitude is the main thing - if I can do it literally anybody can do it.”

Since the Government announced free trades training, more than 100,000 learners have signed up under the Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund (TTAF), Education Minister Chris Hipkins stated on the Beehive website.

“The latest enrolment data shows 106,600 people have taken advantage of free trades training since we introduced TTAF in July 2020, including more than 58,000 apprentices.

“Apprenticeships are traditionally seen as something you do out of school, but with free trades training we are seeing a big jump (19.7%) in workers aged 25 to 39 taking the opportunity for a career change, and more than 1,500 additional apprentices aged over 40.”

Meg, like many decided to change her career path after struggling to get a job after Covid.

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Now more than eight months in she is loving every minute of her role and credits that to working with such a great team at LM Built who she has felt supported by ever since she started.

“My foreman Bruce is just amazing and my other work mates are so supportive, everyone is very patient with me.”

The Government has since extended the Apprenticeship Boost by four months, they announced in a statement on the Beehive Govt website - in a bid to further support trades and the economy’s recovery.

“I’d been living in Sydney and came home to work out my next move, Sydney was just too expensive and I wasn’t enjoying my job at all, then Covid happened and I could not for the life of me get a job.”

An apprenticeship in the trades was something that was never on her radar.

“When I was in my senior years in High School, I thought I wanted to be a vet and then ended up being Head Girl and I decided that I really enjoyed working in a leadership position so I made the decision to go to Otago and do a management degree.

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“After my first year I chose to major in Human Resources Management because I love working with people.”

The idea of working as an apprentice hadn’t crossed her mind until she had been struggling to find a job for months and she saw the advertisements on television about the free apprenticeship scheme.

Being able to work towards a qualification where it could benefit both the employer and herself was hugely appealing to her.

“It’s definitely a weight off your shoulders that you don’t have to pay for it, and I’m sure the

“Extending Apprenticeship Boost helps employers keep apprentices on when times are tough. This decision keeps more people employed and learning valuable vocational skills that will accelerate our economic recovery from COVID-19.

“Extending Apprenticeship Boost to run until August 2022 means employers can keep getting the subsidy for apprentices who are in their first two years of training.

“It also means employers who have apprentices starting over those extra four months can get some Apprenticeship Boost support as well, which could see more than 5,000 new apprentices able to benefit.”

Apprenticeships

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Issue #129 - B&C | 83

Northland

Water storage project marks stage one The first of several reservoirs planned for Northland goes ahead in June.

Work to construct a water storage reservoir to support the emergence of new horticultural development on the Pouto Peninsula in Kaipara has commenced.

Te Tai Tokerau Water Trust, which is building the reservoir, hosted the mayor of Kaipara District Council, Dr Jason Smith and other stakeholders at a gathering at the site of the reservoir near Glinks Gully earlier this month.

The reservoir, known as Redhill, is planned to be built in two stages. The first stage will hold approximately 270,000 cubic metres and is expected to be operational before the end of the year.

Stage two will see Redhill expanded to a much larger three million cubic metre reservoir and the Trust is actively seeking consents to allow this development to occur at a later date and as demand for more water is established.

The commencement of work signifies the start of one of the largest infrastructure projects the region has seen in decades.

Trust chair Murray McCully said it was an important day for the district.

“Redhill is the first step in the Trust’s vision to create a wider water storage and distribution scheme on the Pouto Peninsula. Water will allow the establishment of new horticultural development in the Kaipara and this will bring economic opportunity to its communities,” Murray says.

The completion of both stages of Redhill would ultimately support in the order of 1000 hectares of new irrigated horticulture in the district.

“Breaking ground on this water storage project helps facilitate the next steps of the North

Kaipara Agricultural Delta projects of the Kaipara District Council.

“We are excited and grateful for the work the Trust has done and for the transformational change these developments will provide for the region in decades to come,” Kaipara District Council Mayor Dr Jason Smith said.

Water take consents from the lower reaches of drains and creeks on the Northern Pouto Peninsula have already been issued by the Northland Regional Council to assist with planned future storage developments of the Kaipara scheme.

The Trust has also already secured commercial arrangements with orchardists who wish to establish operations on sites serviced by Redhill and it is likely avocado will be planted before the end of the year.

“The idea is simply to harvest water in the winter, when it is plentiful, for use in the summer months when it is not,” Murray says.

“You only need to look at Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands to see what horticulture can do for a community. Kerikeri has its own irrigation scheme which was created by the Government in the 1980s and the subsequent horticultural development that has occurred as a result has provided significant economic opportunity in that part of Northland.

The Trust, which is also developing water schemes in the Mid North around Kaikohe, received $68m from Kānoa - Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit (formally known as the Provincial Growth Fund) to fund the projects. Of this, $8.5m is in the form of a grant, the rest is a loan.

A 750,000m3 reservoir called Matawii is also underway near Kaikohe. It was the first project nationally to be granted consent under the new COVID 19 (Fast track consenting) Act 2020.

The schemes are designed to collect water from natural sources like streams and drains in times of high flows through pumping systems and gravity. The water would then be stored in reservoirs and distributed through a network of pipes in times of need.

Landowners would need to provide their own infrastructure to make use of the water once it was delivered to the farm gate.

The water storage schemes would also be available to provide water to bolster municipal supplies for both Dargaville and Kaikohe.

You only need to look at Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands to see what horticulture can do for a community. Kerikeri has its own irrigation scheme which was created by the Government in the 1980s and the subsequent horticultural development that has occurred as a result has provided significant economic opportunity in that part of Northland.

“By creating new water storage and distribution schemes we hope to provide land owners with options to develop their land that simply don’t currently exist.”

A Northland contractor has been chosen to build stage one of Redhill. Earthworks to remove a deep layer of peat from what will become the floor of the reservoir is the first step in construction. The reservoir will ultimately be lined before it is filled.

Pre-feasibility studies into the predicted economic benefits that could be realised by implementing water storage schemes in Kaipara showed they could bring an extra $220m to the region each year.

A Northland contractor has been chosen to build stage one of Redhill.

The reservoir would then be enlarged to three million cubic meters, enough to support 1000 hectares of horticulture, as demand for more water is established.

Murray McCully (Trust chair), Dover Samuels (Trustee) Dr Jason Smith (Kaipara District Council Mayor).

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Northland

Fulton Hogan Northland While Fulton Hogan was originally founded in Dunedin in 1933, the infrastructure contracting company is known across New Zealand for its strong leadership and community partnerships.

The family-owned business, started by Jules Fulton and Bob Hogan, has grown to over 7,800 people, with work across New Zealand, Australia and the South Pacific.

Fulton Hogan is known across the country for work such as: • Roads & bridges • Airports • Ports • Rail • Water • Energy • Communications • Resources • Defence.

HEWLETT STREET WHANGAREI

09 470 0700

With projects like the SH36 Pedestrian Overbridge in Tauranga and the SP8 roading projects from Dunedin City Council, Fulton Hogan is uniquely positioned to work on government projects of significance to private contracts such as the Auckland International Airport’s Taxiway Lima.

Fulton Hogan’s strong bonds in Northland cannot be denied. Some of the major projects in the area include the three new double lane bridges – two in Matakohe and one in Taipa – as part of the Government’s Northland Bridges programme.

The project took place from 2017 to 2019 for Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, for a total value of $40.7 million.

The work on the Matakohe Bridges between Wellsford and Dargaville involved realignment of State Highway 12 to remove the right bends approaching the bridges, with cycling connections provided.

The team at Fulton Hogan always strives to go above and beyond simply infrastructure projects – through strong teamwork and a desire to get things done, they company continues to do good work throughout Australasia.

Beyond its people regularly donating their time to local causes and initiatives, the company provides regional and national financial support, skills and resources.

With 88 years under its belt, Fulton Hogan continues to have strong support from both of the founding families – the Fultons and the Hogans – as major shareholders.

Fulton Hogan’s vision and purpose of sustaining a successful infrastructure business hasn’t gone unnoticed. By creating and connecting with local communities – and keeping people at the heart of everything – the team strives to uphold the high caliber of work the company is known for.

Fulton Hogan’s main community partnerships include the Takahē Recovery Programme with the Department of Conservation, Motor Neurone Disease MND New Zealand, Invictus, and the Clontarf Foundation.

Fulton Hogan’s decades of experience, combined with its wealth of plant and resources, gives them the technical knowledge and skills to provide a wide range of construction services.

Beyond its work for significant infrastructure projects in New Zealand, Fulton Hogan cares for the communities it operates in.

Fulton Hogan’s strong bonds in Northland cannot be denied. Some of the major projects in the area include the three new double lane bridges – two in Matakohe and one in Taipa – as part of the Government’s Northland Bridges programme. The project took place from 2017 to 2019 for Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, for a total value of $40.7 million.

WHANGATANE DRIVE KAITAIA

09 408 6440

www.fultonhogan.com fhnorthland@fultonhogan.com www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 85

Waimakariri

Community Board supports proposed community hub

Kaiapoi Cycleway nears completion Work on the final section of the Kaiapoi Cycleway is hitting high gear and should be completed by the end of June.

Waimakariri District Council senior engineering advisor, Don Young says, “This work will complete the connection between Christchurch, Kaiapoi and the wider District.

“Already we’re seeing lots of cyclists make use of the cycleway from Tram Rd into Kaiapoi.

Once this last section is complete, cyclists will be able to continue seamlessly through Kaiapoi and on to our wider cycle network.”

What’s underway?

• The new raised platform at the northern end of Peraki Street has been installed.

• Work upgrading the Peraki / Fuller and Vickery / Isaac Wilson intersections continues.

• The platform outside St Patrick’s School is nearly complete and Peraki Street is expected to be open to traffic this week (weather permitting).

• The new western kerb line around the Vickery / Isaac Wilson intersection has been poured and crews are focusing on completing the remaining raised platforms and footpaths.

There will continue to be a number of road closures as work is being completed and detours are in place.

To get the project completed on time and to limit disruption to residents and local businesses, the contractor is bringing additional teams to site.

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A new community hub is one step closer to being realised after the Kaiapoi-Tuahiwi

The project will now be considered by the Council at its Long Term Plan deliberations later in May.

Community Board approved its location in the Kaiapoi South Regeneration area and recommended that $435,000 be allocated for the project in the Council’s LongTerm Plan.

The Council’s senior engineering advisor, Don Young explained that Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency had shifted focus from preventing crashes to reducing deaths and serious injuries from crashes.

Assuming the Council approves and funds the project, there will be further consultation with residents to shape its design and operation.

Lower speed limits were one of the main tools that the organisation was promoting to reduce fatalities and a review was timely given that Waimakariri’s growth had made roads busier and extended towns into what used to be rural areas.

Potential occupants include the Kaiapoi Croquet Club, Kaiapoi Menz Shed and Food Secure North Canterbury.

The Community Board recommended that this Regeneration area between between Charters Street, Courtenay Drive and Wyber Place be used for a proposed community hub.

Over recent months, there have been a variety of concerns raised by nearby residents, including worries about increased traffic, noise and crime, however board members felt many of their fears were driven by misinformation deliberately spread about the project through an anonymous leaflet.

In other matters, the Board wants to hear from the community on a proposed review of speed limits throughout the Waimakariri District.

The Council supported the review and were keen to make sure speeds across the district are appropriate.

There was doubt expressed by some on the Community Board if reducing speed limits was the most appropriate way to improve road safety, however members were keen to hear what residents thought and recommended that the Council go ahead with public consultation.

Roads to be reviewed include major routes such as Skewbridge and Flaxton Roads, town centre locations such as Charles Street and a variety of roads in the Tuahiwi area.

Board Chair, Chris Greengrass was confident that the Council could work with residents to mitigate any remaining concerns and achieve a good outcome for everyone involved.

Finally, the Community Board approved a $500 discretionary grant for Allstars Marching Teams who will use it to help host a training camp for around 30 local girls.

“Having looked at all the options, the Board believes this is the best location for Kaiapoi’s Community Hub, said Chris Greengrass.

The next Kaiapoi-Tuahiwi Community Board meeting will take place at 5pm on Monday 20 June at the Ruataniwha Kaiapoi Civic Centre.

“If we can work with the community to get well designed buildings with an attractive layout and landscaping, this will become a real asset for the surrounding area.”

Information sourced from: www.waimakariri.govt.nz.

Waimakariri

Resilient buildings What could make a building more resilient to climate change and environmental challenges during its lifetime? There is more to this than making a structure earthquake-strong and weather-tight.

Rain on the plains

A warming climate brings greater rain carrying capacity in the atmosphere: we can expect heavier winter snow on higher ground and more frequent heavy rain storms than this region experienced in the last century.

Drains could be overloaded, as ‘50 year flood’ frequency becomes every 10 years and detaining flood water will be needed to help roadside swales cope.

In the east of New Zealand, climate change may mean the year’s rain falling in uneven bursts between periods of drought: rainwater storage may become a part of resilient buildings as well as farmers. Garden watering and toilet flushing are good uses of stored rainwater, reserving piped supplies for essential uses. Water storage is also really useful in civil emergency, such as after quakes.

A more resourceefficient, less polluting future will call on new life skills from building users as well as designers and constructors.

What’s that buzz?

Warmer average temperatures and dwindling frost nights may allow mosquitoes to spread their habitat southwards, boosting demand for insect screens on windows. Longer growing seasons may favour home food production, coupled with fashionable edible decorative gardens. The resilient home needs space for raised garden beds and must have healthy soil left on the site after construction: free from lead paint scrapings or construction debris.

Warming to the idea Sunshine is the free heat input that a resilient house design incorporates, even in winter, by increasing north-facing glazing while reducing on the south – provided the structure has internal thermal mass to absorb heat by day and releases it overnight to achieve temperature stability. External shading from mid-summer heat is important too. Insulation needs to be extensive and placed outside the thermal mass of the floor or sunlit walls for it to work. Placing carpets over insulated floors does not work: floor surfaces such as tiles to let the energy flow in and out.

NZ Communities face challenges from sudden events such as natural disasters, and from gradual but significant changes such as resource shortages or climate change.

An ability to respond to both requires resilience: a mix of adaptation, imagination and resourcefulness.

How skilled are you at resilience? Have you given it much thought?

Photovoltaic panels are most useful on buildings where the largest power use is 9am to 5pm such as at schools, factories and offices; although fast developing technology may soon make on-site power storage costeffective. Decentralised power production increases resilience by reducing reliance on distant generators linked by the national grid.

Future living skills A more resource-efficient, less polluting future will call on new life skills from building users as well as designers and constructors.

We may need to know about local food production, low carbon transport, waste and water minimisation, and community resilience. These topics feature alongside energy and eco-design in a community education programme which is freely available in Christchurch and Waimakariri.

For details see www.sustainableliving.org.nz.

On this website, under ‘Learn’, you will find occasional tutor-led courses and workshops, if you are ready to seek contact with others sharing this interest.

There is also good advice on including sustainability awareness in new building and renovations at: www.ccc.govt.nz/environment/ sustainability/build-smarter www.ecodesignadvisor.org.nz/resources Rhys Taylor is the National Coordinator of the Sustainable Living Education Trust. He lives in Canterbury. www.sustainableliving.org.nz

The Sustainable Living Programme is a practical, fun way of learning future living skills to become more resilient & to reduce your environmental impacts at home.

On-line materials are free to residents of this district because the Waimakariri District Council subscribes to the Sustainable Living Programme; to access the learning guides and see more District-specific information, register now at sustainableliving.org.nz Also look on our website waimakariri.govt.nz for more information about sustainability, waste minimisation and civil defence preparedness.

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Issue #129 - B&C | 87

Honda Hub Taranaki

HONDA HUB HAWERA & NEW PLYMOUTH We have a passion for all things red - Honda is a tried and tested product and we are proud to fly the Honda flag.

We work hard to support local communities and have built key partnerships in the rural sector.

We have a young management team with ambitions and drive to support our local community and agriculture sector.

Our products have been designed for use in New Zealand conditions and have evolved over the years to support the developments and advancements in the agriculture sector.

We are very fortunate to have an experienced team of workshop crew across North & South Taranaki with locations in Hawera and New Plymouth both offering an on-farm service.

It is our top priority to give the best service possible, keeping you and your Honda safe and running.

We also pride ourselves on a quick and efficient turnaround time, time is money for both you and us and our aim will always to be get your bike in and out as soon as we can.

Whether you are after fun in the weekends or you are hard at work, the team at Honda Hub Hawera/New Plymouth can supply and service Honda motorcycles, Honda power equipment and now Honda marine.

We take pride in providing hardworking and durable ATVs and farm bikes that help keep our agriculture industry moving.

Our commitment to the rural sector includes long time sponsorship of key rural organisations such as NZ Young Farmers and the Dairy Industry Association and NZ Herefords.

HONDA HUB Serving you at two locations: Honda Hub Hawera 250 Waihi Road Hawera 4610 (06) 278 5972 Honda Hub New Plymouth 169 Gill Street New Plymouth 4617 (06) 757 3612 www.hondahub.co.nz

Whether you are after fun in the weekends or you're hard at work, the team at Honda Hub Hawera/New Plymouth can supply and service Honda motorcycles, Honda power equipment and now Honda marine.

We pride ourselves on providing fast, professional and friendly service, so whatever your motorcycling needs we have you covered at Honda Hub.

Our commitment to the recreational motorcycle market cannot be overlooked.

Our passion for all things motorcycling is unwavering and we support the local motorcycling community, not only with an outstanding range of products, but commitment to providing the event support and helping local motorcycle groups achieve their goal of enjoying and sharing the fun of motorcycling.

HONDA HUB - GENUINE PRODUCTS, GENUINE PEOPLE, GENUINE SERVICE.

169 GILL STREET, NEW PLYMOUTH, 4312 | 06 757 3612 • 250 WAIHI ROAD, HAWERA, 4673 | 06 278 5972

YOU KNOW US FOR MOST THINGS MOTORBIKE ON-FARM, ROAD OR OFF-ROAD, BUT THE HONDA ENGINE OFFERS A MUCH WIDER RANGE KNOWN FOR ITS UNBEATABLE POWER AND RELIABILITY, GENEROUS WARRANTY TIME AND THE QUIET ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY 4-STROKE LOW EMISSIONSENGINE MAKES IT AN EASY CHOICE.

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ALL THINGS HONDA POWERED NOW AVAILABLE AT HONDA HUB IN BOTH NEW PLYMOUTH & HAWERA; SELECTED DEMO UNITS AVAILABLE.

A Diverse Line You Can Trust!

Subsurface Civil & Drilling

Subsurface Civil & Drilling Canterbury based specialists with the ability to carry out civil works installing power, gas, telecommunications including fibre, water and drainage.

Deane (Herb) Herbert started Subsurface Drilling after eight years in the trenchless drilling industry. His vision was for a company which could provide a professional one-stop trenchless installation service.

Today the company owns and operates several directional drills which are capable of installing pipes from 20mm in diameter (down to the side of a house and under the vege garden), to pipe diameters of up to 450m (down road ways and under buildings).

Subsurface Civil & Drilling now specialises in several different methods of trenchless installation including directional drilling, pipe ramming, thrust boring, conventional trenching, chain trenching, pipe cracking and pipe bursting.

We take pride in our directional drilling operations. Disruption to businesses and the public is minimised with our hydroexcavation trucks. We also have a truck on site during directional drill or pipe cracking operations to take care of the spillage of drilling fluids.

Our services Pipe Ramming We provide on-grade installations by pipe ramming. This is where a steel casing is installed under roadways, railway tracks etc as a liner pipe to carry communications, drainage water power etc.

Thrust Boring Thrust boring is a trenchless method used to install a single pipe from 32mm diameter to 110mm - commonly used for power, water, drainage, communications under roadways, paths, patios. Anywhere we can set up our equipment we can install.

Directional Drilling With a wide range of directional drilling machines, we can offer this trenchless installation method that is carried out by a drill guided along a given route.

Open Cut Trenching With a wide range of excavators we can carry out conventional trenching for low voltage and high voltage power cabling, water and communication cable installations.

Welding At Subsurface Civil & Drilling we are Christchurch City Council-approved Polyethylene and Electro-fusion welders.

We supply butt welding services from 63mm to 315mm and electro fusion welding from 32mm to 500mm.

Ground Pentrating Radar “GPR” is a service that is offered to clients for locating and identifying existing service locations and depths.

Hydro-excavation units are used to identify and visualise the services prior to any excavations or trenchless works being undertaken.

Asphalt Repair Works We carry out asphalt reinstatement works of trenches in foot-ways, roadways and patches.

Consulting Services We offer a professional consulting service to clients for planning and design works. This can range from best techniques available for the job, time frames, products available, budgeting of costs etc.

Hydro Excavation We offer, as part of our day to day works, hydro-excavation for locating of services, pole holes and slurry clean up.

Drainage Works We are CCC-authorised drain layers from pipe installations to manholes, pressure testing to job completion.

Pipe Cracking Pipe cracking is a trenchless process that replaces old pipes such as clay tile, cast Iron, PVC, Asbestos and reinforced concrete. This technique minimises disruption to the above ground activities.

Pipe Bursting Pipe Bursting is a trenchless method used to replace existing pipelines with PE and PVC pipes in the same alignment without physically removing the existing pipe. This type of install can be used on jobs such as pipe size for pipe size or upsized to a large pipe through clay tile, PVC, Cast iron. This technique minimises disruption to the above ground activities.

Canterbury based specialists with the ability to carry out Civil Works installing Power, Gas, Telecommunications including Fibre, Water and Drainage.

PIPE RAMMING • THRUST BORING • DIRECTIONAL DRILLING • OPEN CUT TRENCHING WELDING • HYDRO EXCAVATION • GROUND PENETRATING RADAR • DRAINAGE WORKS ASPHALT REPAIR WORKS • AIR SPADE EXCAVATIONS • CONSULTING SERVICES RANGE OF MACHINERY • TRANSPORTATION OF MACHINERY • PIPE CRACKING • PIPE BURSTING SITEWORKS & CLEARING • CC APPROVED WATER INSTALLERS

CONTACT US 03 354 8204 (Herb) 0274 993 868 E herb@ssdl.co.nz • (Luke) 0274 993 080 E luke@ssdl.co.nz

www.subsurfacecivildrilling.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #129 - B&C | 89

Temporary Traffic Management

Counting the costs of road safety It’s easy to get tunnel vision while driving and lose sight of other road users. In addition, unexpected road works on your daily drive can throw you off guard.

However, strategic temporary traffic management (TTM) design takes everyday hazards and human error into account to keep roads as safe as possible for all users.

New Zealand’s Road Safety Week took place nationwide 17-23 May, but road safety is something we should always keep in mind.

According to the Ministry of Transport, one person dies every day on New Zealand roads while seven others are seriously injured.

Although there are ways the general public can support road safety measures – reducing speeds, staying focused on the road, adhering to road laws – there are other critical ways to prioritise road safety which involves TTM. Parallaxx Ltd senior consultant and trainer Darrin Humphries says, “Major design and management decisions need to pivot around health and safety requirements to ensure all stakeholders are considered – health and safety is not an ‘add on’. It needs to form part

of the foundation of all projects in New Zealand.

look after the traffic management aspects of their projects.

“Thinking about how a construction project might affect the road user and making design and construction decisions based on increasing safety and reducing disruption can only have a positive affect where the road user interfaces with the construction zone.

“Awareness and specialisation in order to meet compliance requirements leads to a greater demand for these professional services, supply is diminished due to demand which inevitably results in increased costs.”

“We currently do this on large roading projects to a fairly good degree. This approach is scalable and should be incorporated into all projects by all contractors.”

Industry challenges The size of a project isn’t the only determinant of risk. The knowledge and forethought put into traffic management are also contributing factors. Darrin says one of the larger challenges facing TTM is compliance.

“TTM is becoming more and more specialised which means that contractors are increasingly abandoning doing their own inhouse traffic management and are instead engaging professional traffic management providers to

Although it might be tempting to prioritise the project’s bottom line above all else, but when it comes to traffic management, few can afford the risks a lack of safety entails.

Addressing the issue In addition to his work with Parallaxx, Darrin is also the current design advisor for the Waka Kotahi training and competency model where he’s involved in the design of the national rollout of the latest TTM workshop materials.

Waka Kotahi’s new competency model is meant to address the issue of high demand and low supply of TTM professionals.

In March, Waka Kotahi implemented Stage 1 of its Training and Competency Model.

Thinking about how a construction project might affect the road user and making design and construction decisions based on increasing safety and reducing disruption can only have a positive affect where the road user interfaces with the construction zone.

Looking at the Ministry of Transport’s annual crash statistics for calendar years 1990 to 2019, there would seem to be a general downward trend.

Nevertheless, in 2019 there was a total of 352 deaths as a result of car crashes. Victims vary and include drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and varying circumstances.

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In the first stage a few updates to the CoPTTM occurred including an introduction of categories for road environments, changes to traffic controllers’ responsibilities, the introduction of additional roles like traffic management operative (TMO) and STMS Mobile operations (STMS (M)) – just to name a few.

The intent behind many of the changes often relate to reducing risks or clarifying responsibilities for the TTM professional while also benefitting road users and stakeholders.

At any rate, Darrin says the roll-out will need time to deliver the desired outcomes.

He anticipates that the increased training requirements for traffic management operators and site traffic management specialists will ultimately advance trainees and safety standard while also temporarily slowing the supply of operators and specialists.

“We can go to great effort to educate and train people, but errors are inevitable no matter the amount of education or training available.

“In essence we accept that there will be events, we can lessen the likelihood or probability of those events happening, but essentially, we accept that the probability of an event, bad decision or mistake can never be reduced to zero.

“Absorbing error is about looking at how we can lessen the severity of an event after the mistake has been made.”

In 2019, the Ministry of Transport published the Road to Zero strategy for 2020 to 2030.

One of the goals for the strategy is to reduce deaths and serious injuries by 40 percent by 2030. Of course, the ideal number of deaths or serious injuries on New Zealand roads is zero.

Temporary Traffic Management

Highways and Byways - Highway1 has it all!

Highway 1 is a significant manufacturer and supplier of temporary traffic management equipment from safety signs, electronic variable message signs (trailer or truck mounted) traffic lights and many Bitumen Products. Traffic management, H & S, construction, Signage, carpark range products we have you covered.

Check out our product range at www.Highway1.co.nz.

Road safety products

Signs

Car park & workplace safety

Asphalt & Concrete Maintenance

Construction products

Electronic signs

Cones, cone arms, flexiposts and bollards, reflectors safety fences, vests, sandbags.

Speed humps, wheel stops, channel cable protectors, Safety mirrors.

Bunting, marking tapes, line marking.

We manufacture all temporary warning signs & personal protective signs (PPE) for all Sizes for hazards & safety requirements. Enquire & we will make it for you

Bitumend range - Coldmix, Crackfix, Top seal, joint filler, Rejuvenate, E-release and applicator equipment.

AWVMS, Arrow boards traffic lights, Variable message Signs (VMS) and Truck Mounted Attenuators (TMA)

We have office’s in both Auckland and Christchurch, where you can visit and pick up or we freight through out New Zealand, and we cover insurance for free on deliveries.

We are here to help, have quality products and won’t be beaten by price.

Give us a call 0800 175 571 or visit our website www.Highway1.co.nz