This issue of Elevate opens up looking at how companies can support and care for their employees’ mental health.
We also delve into the issue of new apartments overheating as New Zealand has embraced medium and high-density builds however, it seems some apartments are hot for the wrong reasons.
There are pieces on 3D-printed homes,
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MATES in Construction Mental health gains highlight urgent support needs for at-risk workers
MATES in Construction’s latest research reveals promising progress in workers’ mental health, yet emphasises the need for continued, targeted support for at-risk groups within the industry.
MATES in Construction (MATES), a not-for-profit organisation, is committed to addressing mental health challenges in New Zealand’s construction sector. Its most recent study, the MATES Industry Well-being Survey supported by ASB, engaged over 2,000 workers. The findings are encouraging, showing that 85% of workers reported good mental health in November 2023, an increase from 75% in 2022 and 70% in 2021.
Despite the overall improvement in mental health within the construction industry, several groups remain particularly vulnerable. These include younger workers (aged 15-24), females, LGBTQIA+ individuals, those with poor social support, workers who are separated or divorced, and those living with disabilities, mental illness, or long-term health conditions.
In an industry known for its high-pressure environment, these groups often experienced increased psychological distress.
Dr. Lauren Donnan, MATES Research Lead, explains:
“This research provides a benchmark for the sector to measure progress and focus on what matters to workers, ensuring MATES initiatives are targeted and effective. It highlights the importance of developing tailored mental health initiatives and enhancing support systems in the workplace.”
Workplace stressors: the pressure is on
These findings are supported by the MATES Workplace Psychosocial Stressors Report, conducted with BRANZ and funded by the Building Research Levy.
As we build on the progress reflected in our research, we must recognise that mental health initiatives cannot be one-size-fits-all.
The study, which included 19 focus groups with 115 workers total, identified key workplace stressors contributing to mental health struggles. Common issues included financial instability, poor communication, low pay, entrenched “old school masculinity,” job insecurity, and a lack of mental health support.
Additionally, 25% of workers identified workload as a major concern, with factors like poor weather, high work demands, peer stress, and tight deadlines exacerbating these pressures. At home, challenges such as lack of sleep, exhaustion, relationship issues, and health concerns further impacted workers’ mental well-being.
Reflecting on the research, BRANZ Research GM Dr. Chris Litten says, “These new insights will help drive positive change in the industry and save lives. We are grateful to the workers who shared their experiences, contributing to this crucial conversation on mental health and suicide prevention.”
CONTENT WARNING: Mentions of suicide and self-harm
These new insights will help drive positive change in the industry and save lives. We are grateful to the workers who shared their experiences, contributing to this crucial conversation on mental health and suicide prevention.
Protective factors: the power of support
Despite these challenges, open discussions about mental health, workplace well-being and suicide prevention programs, and support from friends, whānau, colleagues, and the wider community are seen as crucial in maintaining workers’ well-being. These protective factors help create environments where workers feel safe discussing mental health and accessing support when needed.
MATES: essential support for at-risk workers
A 2024 study from Central Queensland University highlights the immense cost of suicide in New Zealand’s construction industry, with 14% of national suicides in 2022/23 occurring in this sector—80 lives lost and over 1,600 workers taking time off due to self-harm. The cost of doing nothing is immense, with suicide in construction alone costing New Zealand $1.135 billion in 2023. MATES’ work is crucial, with
a return of $4.42 for every $1 invested, based on saving just one life annually. In 2023/24, MATES handled 427 case management clients, 1,099 Supportline calls, and 10 postvention cases, underscoring the continued demand for support.
This September, ASB, a proud MATES partner since June 2023, announced it would sponsor the MATES 24/7 Supportline. Ben Speedy, GM Commercial Banking at ASB, remarks, “Ensuring construction workers have immediate access to help when needed is something we take seriously. We’re proud to sponsor this lifesaving service.”
Looking forward: a call for collective action
The road ahead requires collective action, and MATES’ research is a powerful reminder that while progress is being made, there’s more to be done.
“As we build on the progress reflected in our research, we must recognise that mental health initiatives cannot be one-size-fits-all,” says John Chapman, CEO of MATES in Construction. “It will take effort across the board—from government, employers, and community partners—to build the necessary scaffolding of support. We all have a role to play in shaping an industry where no one falls through the cracks.”
“With continued kōrero (conversations), collaboration, and targeted support systems, the industry can further reduce the mental health burden and create a safer, more resilient workforce that thrives both on and off the job.”
Read the full research reports here, https://mates.net.nz/research
How to look after your employees’ mental health
By Paige O’Brien
Mental health can change over time. It is not uncommon for an individual to need support at some point in their life, and they may even require continued support depending on the person and their challenges.
For co-workers, managers, and HR, it is important to consistently be inclusive and supportive of colleagues or employees struggling and going through a tough time.
When it comes to men’s mental health, as much as we do not want to admit it, there is still a large stigma around speaking out, especially in the construction industry.
Good mental fitness can mean better engagement, reduced days off, and higher productivity, and there are tools and resources available to help ensure that.
The Mental Health Foundation has a range of free resources to support workplaces at individual, team and workplace levels. They approach
with a focus on creating a psychologically safe, supportive and strong environment, and most importantly, people.
Engaging activities and useful, research-based information support the development of knowledge of mental health in the workplace and the identification of possibilities to safeguard and improve mental fitness, as well as the adoption of positive action within the workplace.
When it comes to men’s mental health, as much as we do not want to admit it, there is still a large stigma around speaking out, especially in the construction industry.
According to Umbrella, research suggests that the masculine belief that is the most harmful to men’s mental health is that men need to be “tough” or “strong” and that speaking about hardships and struggles in life is considered “weak”.
There are numerous ways to tackle this outdated stigma:
1. Think about what qualities you believe are the most important for a man to show, and do that.
2. Talk openly about your mental health, especially to those younger than you.
3. Encourage reaching out to others (because it does really help).
There are more avenues to being the stereotypical masculine that does not include ignoring our mental health. All of us (HR, managers, bosses, and co-workers) have a part to play in promoting the idea that it is okay to talk about mental health and want to improve each other or our own mental fitness.
Not only is it important, it is crucial.
Need help and support? Check out these resources:
Anxiety New Zealand 0800 ANXIETY (0800 269 4389)
Depression Helpline 0800 111 757
Kidsline 0800 54 37 54 (0800 KIDSLINE) for young people up to 18 years of age. Open 24/7
Lifeline 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
Need to Talk? Call or text 1737
Rural Support Trust 0800 787 254 (0800 RURAL HELP)
Samaritans 0800 726 666
Shakti Community Council 0800 742 584
Shine (domestic violence) 0508 744 633
Suicide Crisis Helpline 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) Supporting Families in Mental Illness 0800 732 825 thelowdown.co.nz email team@thelowdown.co.nz or free text 5626
What’s Up
0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
Women’s Refuge 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
Youthline 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
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Training drivers in different classes
C J’s Driving School Ltd’s Christine Jones started her career in driver training at the Timaru YMCA in 1996.
She has worked hard to gain experience and achieve her goal of being an Independent Course Provider for NZTA and a MITO and Competenz Approved Industry Assessor.
She is a licensed driving instructor and industry assessor, has New Zealand Level 5 qualifications in adult education and TESOL and is the owner/operator of C J’s Driving School Ltd.
She has spent most of her life driving all sorts of heavy vehicles, both in New Zealand and overseas.
She is excited and passionate about training the next generation of professional heavy vehicle drivers and helping people to take the next step in their driving career to alleviate New Zealand’s huge skills shortage in the road transport industry.
Through her driving school she can offer courses in Classes 2 and 4 licences and endorsements for dangerous goods and forklift.
Making ‘mental fitness’ hi-vis
From Live Well, Build Well
Just like you can become physically fitter, you can also build your mental strength and fitness. That’s the thinking behind Live Well Build Well, a nationwide wellbeing programme designed to help builders and tradies manage the ups and downs of residential construction.
Programme leader Rafael Caso says Live Well Build Well is the ‘ambulance at the top of the cliff’.
“This programme is designed to increase the mental health and resilience of everyone in the industry and complements the work of Mates in Construction, which helps those really ‘under the pump’.”
“We use the term mental fitness because, for many people, ‘mental health’ has become associated with illness rather than wellness. But the research shows that small, everyday changes in how we think and what we do to keep well and be happy can add up to huge changes in our mental health. We can still thrive no matter what life throws at us.”
The programme, which is in its second year, is rapidly building a community around mental fitness and encouraging builders and tradies to share what they do to keep well and stay on top of their game, despite the demands of the industry.
We use the term mental fitness because, for many people, ‘mental health’ has become associated with illness rather than wellness.
Live Well Build Well’s resources focus on four key
areas: the basics of mental fitness – such as exercise, nutrition and sleep, flexible thinking skills, active listening skills and the importance of knowing your ‘why’ - having a sense of purpose to keep going in tough times.
The programme’s wellbeing advisor, Professor Grant Schofield of AUT, has spent years studying the human life span and how humans can be ‘their best self’. His insights have been packaged up into tradie-friendly video clips and skill-based learning modules over the last year.
These will be rolled out in 2025 through a network of industry champions to build
on the toolbox talks Rafael Caso has been delivering at workplaces and businesses across the country.
“Everyone has days on-site when nothing seems to go right,” says Rafael. “This can lead to a downward spiral where unhelpful thoughts and emotions reinforce each other and make a difficult situation even worse.”
“The good news is that we can change the way we think to be more helpful while still acknowledging the difficulties we are facing. This is possible using mental fitness skills such as ‘Catch it, Check it, Change it’ or ‘Reframing A Bad Day’, where you train your brain to have more constructive thoughts.”
“We are encouraging builders and tradies to learn these mental skills rather than waiting for the pressures of work to take their toll. The idea is that people invest regularly in their ‘wellbeing bank account’ so they have something to draw on when times are tough.”
One of the challenges people face at work is that they are sometimes easily ‘triggered’. Something goes wrong and they act on their negative feelings straight away and lose their rag. Being mentally fit is about learning to notice those thoughts and let them go. That’s how you keep moving towards your best life.
Here’s what Live Well Build Well wellbeing expert Grant Schofield has to say. “Negative thoughts and feelings are part of a normal human experience of the world. You can’t avoid them, but by learning to be more psychologically flexible, you can manage them.”
“One of the challenges people face at work is that they are sometimes easily ‘triggered’. Something goes wrong and they act on their negative feelings straight away and lose their rag. Being mentally fit is about learning to notice those thoughts and let them go. That’s how you keep moving towards your best life.”
Rafael Caso sums up the programme’s potential: “We know from the work Mates in Construction’s been doing that the challenges in the industry aren’t going away anytime soon – deadlines, market changes, regulations, the costof-living crisis. They’re going to keep coming. As an industry and a country, we need to give people the skills to manage these challenges and perform under pressure, not just take the hits.”
“The most important part of staying mentally fit is to make your own wellbeing a priority, no matter how busy the week gets. Make time for activities that help you to de-stress and recharge your batteries. Different things work for different people, so check out the Live Well Build Well website and social media feeds to see what other builders are doing and what could work for you. Even small changes can make a huge difference to how you feel at the end of each day or week. That’s how we’re really going to ‘shift the dial’ in this space.”
To find out more, visit livewellbuildwell.com and follow Live Well Build Well on socials.
Programme wellbeing advisor Prof Grant Schofield
Live Well Build Well programme leader Rafael Caso
Annual number of homes consented down 20 percent
Per stats NZ, 33,632 new homes were consented to in the year ending August 2024, down 20 percent compared with the year ending August 2023.
Construction and property statistics manager Michael Heslop says, “The number of multi-unit homes consented in the year ended August 2024 is the lowest in the last three years.”
He adds that the number of apartments consented to in the year ended August 2024 is the lowest in ten years.
All regions except Otago saw fewer new homes consented to compared with the year ended August 2023. In Canterbury, 6,713 homes
were consented to, down 9.4 percent.
“The annual number of homes consented in the Otago region was higher than Wellington for the first time since the year ended October 2017,” Heslop said.
Tough times build tough businesses, and the results show that the sector is adapting, finding efficiencies, and diversifying its business models.
In the year ending August 2024, 15,597 stand-alone houses were consented to, down 9.7 percent compared with the year ending August 2023.
There were 18,035 multiunit homes consented,
down 27 percent, over the same period. Multi-unit homes include townhouses, apartments, retirement village units, and flats.
A recovering sector
Master Builders CEO Ankit Sharma said there’s no denying the current economic conditions have resulted in a slowdown, but that the industry needs to start laying the foundations for the recovery.
“We recognise this is a challenging economic climate, and a lot of our members will be feeling the squeeze.
“Tough times build tough businesses, and the results show that the sector is adapting, finding efficiencies, and diversifying its business models. It highlights we have matured as a sector, and with the right mechanisms and support, we can become even more resilient,” Sharma said.
In Master Builders’ annual State of the Sector survey, 83 percent of respondents flagged access to finance as the biggest challenge for building and construction in the current environment.
Survey respondents said price escalations would be managed (48 percent) and project delays (18 percent) were the two largest concerns heading into the build process.
“It’s incredibly encouraging to see that most homeowners report positive building experiences,” he added.
“We know that many builders are very good at developing strong and positive relationships with their clients.
“Communication and transparency are critical, and having honest and open conversations about the risks and budget contingencies can help ease concerns and further encourage confidence.”
STAY WARM & ELIMINATE CONDENSATION
DID YOU KNOW A FAMILY OF FOUR CAN PRODUCE 34 LITRES OF MOISTURE A DAY THROUGH EVERYDAY TASKS?
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SnowTemp Heating Solutions
While necessity may be the mother of invention, it’s increasing costs that spawn efficiency.
Before the ’70s, we happily cranked up the thermostat when the house felt chilly. Once heating costs went through the roof, though, we all put on sweaters and started looking for ways to save.
And, with up to 40 percent of our heating dollar going to air infiltration - otherwise known as drafts - sealing the place up began to seem like the best defence against high heating bills.
Over a period of time, older homes began to sport new, tight windows and doors, insulation and vapor-barrier improvements, modern sealants, and caulk for every crack through which air might pass.
New homes left the drawing board designed to be air tight, and builders became familiar with the new materials and skills needed to meet market demand and updated regulations.
Homes were finally becoming thermally efficient. What some began to wonder, though, was whether they were habitable.
It turns out that those heat-robbing drafts had a role in the ecosystem of the home - they provided fresh air to breathe. Without realising it, builders before the energy crisis had been installing an effective, albeit haphazard, ventilation system. If you could afford the heating bills, it worked.
Newer homes may be less draughty, but concern is growing that they are accumulating too much internal moisture.
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Construction sector most downbeat
NZIER survey shows general decline in business confidence
By Ben O’Connell
According to the latest NZIER (New Zealand Institute of Economic Research) Quarterly Survey of Business Opinion (QSBO), a net 35 percent of firms expect the general economic outlook to deteriorate over the coming months.
The NZIER report points to a further decline in business confidence in the June quarter as higher interest rates continue to dampen demand across the nation’s Zealand economy.
The report says the construction sector is the most downbeat, with a net 65 percent of building firms surveyed anticipating a worse economic future. “With weak demand across housing, commercial, and government construction work, prices in the construction sector remain under pressure while costs remain intense,” the NZIER reported in a statement.
“The manufacturing sector was also very downbeat, with a net 63 percent of manufacturers expecting a deterioration in general economic conditions over the coming months.
“Domestic demand for the sector remains weak,
largely due to the weaker construction demand.
This continued to reduce the pricing power of manufacturers, which has driven further deterioration in profitability for the manufacturing sector.
“This environment of higher interest rates and heightened uncertainty about the outlook has made businesses much more cautious about hiring and investment.
“A net 35 percent of firms plan to reduce investment in buildings, while a net 27 percent plan to reduce investment in plant and machinery over the coming year. Many firms are holding off on investment until they
feel more certain about when demand will recover.”
This softer labour demand and the increased labour supply since the reopening of international borders continued to drive the easing in labour shortages.
Meanwhile, a quarter of firms reported they had reduced staff numbers in the June quarter due to weak demand.
“This softer labour demand and the increased labour supply since the reopening of international borders continued to drive the easing in labour shortages. It is now
Weak demand has been the leading factor driving the reduction in capacity pressures in the national New Zealand economy, and weak demand is increasingly becoming the key concern for businesses.
Over 60 percent of firms report a lack of sales as the primary constraint on their business, a significant increase from the 42 percent of firms that reported that as the primary constraint on their business a year ago.
The NZIER has conducted its QSBO since 1961. It is New Zealand’s longest-running business opinion survey.
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Apartments overheating nationwide
The upper levels of some terraced houses and duplexes are too hot in the summer, according to Auckland residents, who were recently surveyed by their local council.
New Zealand has embraced medium and high-density builds over the last few years, but now apartments are hot for the wrong reasons.
The Auckland Council study found that “the combination of large windows, small window openings, solar orientation, reduced natural ventilation and minimal shade provision such as eaves and established trees” means homes are too hot in summer.
Hot indoor conditions cause uncomfortable sleeping conditions for residents, which could lead to heatrelated health outcomes.
Pressure to address these concerns is rising like global temperatures. More hot homes are anticipated as our climate changes and cities warm.
Residents said they made changes to cool their homes such as keeping curtains closed and windows open, purchasing free-standing fans and air conditioning units, or installing ceiling fans, heat pumps and air conditioning units. With these changes come financial costs, but also less space, such as ducting for
By Ben O’Connell
air conditioning in wardrobes, preventing the storage of clothes; one example within the study. The survey of 1,337 residents in medium-density housing focused on homes built between 2016 and 2023.
Urban areas absorb, produce, and retain more heat. Minimising what is called the ‘urban heat island effect’ is critical as cities develop nationwide. The Ministry for the Environment is mindful of this and promotes “building design, materials, and urban planning” that mitigates the heat-island effect.
The overheating problem is driving discussions around the need for improved building designs that consider the evolving climates of our biggest cities, with calls for better regulations around ventilation and cooling to prevent overheating in highdensity urban living spaces.
“Vehicles and buildings generate heat, and the dark, paved surfaces that typically cover urban areas absorb heat,” its website reads. “These surfaces also allow fewer plants to grow. This reduces the cooling effects of shading and evaporation and worsens air pollution.
“The resulting urban heatisland effect can increase
temperatures in cities relative to their surrounding areas.
Heat absorbed throughout the day is then released in the evening, raising night-time temperatures and worsening the effects of heat waves.
“Heatwaves have widespread negative impacts on health, wellbeing and levels of comfort, especially for older people and those who may not be able to pay to cool their homes. Extreme heat caused by climate change is likely to intensify Māori and Pasifika health inequities. It can also increase prenatal health issues.”
Streamlining consents
The Government recently announced it would be reforming the building consent system.
Building and Construction
Minister Chris Penk says New Zealand has some of the least affordable housing in the world. He says that there are 67 building consent authorities nationwide, with differing interpretations of the building code, which isn’t serving Kiwis well.
“At the heart of the issue is unreasonably high building costs and a cumbersome consenting system which saps productivity and disincentivises growth and development,” he said.
“This is especially challenging for large-scale home builders and off-site manufacturers,
along with modular and prefab builders, who work across regional boundaries.
“For example, in a recent survey of Master Builders Association members, 80 percent reported having to deal with multiple BCAs, and 66 per cent experienced delays.
“We need to incentivise innovative solutions that improve productivity and enable building at scale.
“That’s why we are beginning discussion on options to replace the current BCA system.
“This work is in addition to reforms already underway to improve the existing building consent process, such as making it easier to build granny flats by removing consent requirements, increasing the uptake of remote inspections and removing barriers for the use of overseas building products.”
Chief executive of the NZ Property Council, Leonie Freeman, backs the government’s plans, saying, “This long-overdue reform is aimed at cutting through red tape and delivering faster, more efficient development outcomes.”
She believes the announcement could mark the beginning of a new era for the construction industry. “The Government’s commitment to exploring solutions that will streamline building
consents is a positive step toward addressing these long-standing issues. It signals that we’re moving in the right direction for a more efficient, predictable, and cost-effective development process.
“At the heart of this is the goal we all share: building more homes more quickly and at a lower cost. The ripple effect of a more efficient system would be felt across every community in New Zealand.”
Builds for every season
Streamlining systems is good on paper, but in practice, New Zealand must tackle its housing quality issues headon. While Kiwis need places to live, ensuring they stand the test of time is also front of mind for industry.
The overheating problem is driving discussions around the need for improved building designs that consider the
evolving climates of our biggest cities, with calls for better regulations around ventilation and cooling to prevent overheating in highdensity urban living spaces.
New Zealand builds typically prioritise keeping residents warm over winter. The focus on reducing heating costs sometimes overlooks the need for cooling solutions. As our climate changes, ensuring homes are suitable all year is increasingly vital.
Passive house design offers one solution. Per the government’s Building Performance website, “passive cooling works by using shade and insulation to keep heat out of your home in summer, using heat-storing materials such as concrete to absorb heat, and using breeze and air movement inside your home to keep you cool.” It’s also free, unlike typically expensive air conditioning.
Each year, we’re building 40,000 new homes, and we are not considering overheating adequately in the new homes we’re building.
Adopting passive house design does not address how existing homes need cooling solutions. Still, its building principles can prevent overheating issues, provided the nation keeps them in mind from now on.
New Zealand Green Building Council chief executive Andrew Eagles told RNZ that improving the Building Code is really important.
“There’s no requirement in the Building Code to address overheating,” he said. “So, with modern homes being more airtight and at greater
density, with high levels of insulation, it can be an issue.
“Each year, we’re building 40,000 new homes, and we are not considering overheating adequately in the new homes we’re building.”
He added that other nations have already made improvements and that New Zealand needs to follow suit. If not, Andrew says it could lead to tens of thousands of people at risk of extremely uncomfortable living environments.
“Every two weeks, we are getting someone call us, saying their apartment or home is massively overheating, so if we’re doing a big review of consenting, let’s think about how we can improve that and get consistency for healthier homes in New Zealand.”
Simplify your financial journey
Life is all about risk. Every day you evaluate the risks in your life – deciding which are worth taking and which are best avoided. Or even reduced. Risk is what’s left over after you think you’ve thought of everything.
We are really good at managing risk by looking backwards and preparing ourselves to handle a situation we’ve already seen… only better this time. But we’re not very good at preparing for something we can’t even imagine.
That’s a real bummer, because “something we can’t even imagine” is precisely what we
need to be prepared for. It’s not the car you see coming that will cause you injuries… it’s the one you don’t see.
Insurance is a way of transferring the cost of risks you can’t avoid or reduce to someone else. Like an insurance company. We generally understand house, contents and car insurance more readily than we do life
insurance. Those policies protect something tangible - and in our minds, our most valuable assets - if something bad were to happen to it.
Insurance is a way of transferring the cost of risks you can’t avoid or reduce to someone else. Like an insurance company.
Life insurance is the same principle, but it covers something even more important: you. It should protect your loved ones, your money and your stuff - in that order. You should remember
that the purpose of life insurance is not that you are going to die, but rather that those you love are going to live.
Have you taken time to think about what risks you and your family or business can avoid, reduce or transfer?
At Cheeky Hippo Financial Advisers, we understand that no two clients are the same. Our bespoke financial plans are designed to meet your personal or business’ financial goals. We turn the complex world of finance into a straightforward and manageable journey. Let us help you achieve financial peace of mind today.
Your financial wellbeing is our passion
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Are 3D-printed concrete homes New Zealand’s path to reducing carbon emissions?
By Nicole Valdez
As New Zealand strives to meet its net-zero carbon goals by 2050, the construction sector is under increasing pressure to find sustainable solutions.
The advent of 3D-printed concrete homes could play an essential role in reducing our carbon emissions, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional construction methods.
A carbon-reduced alternative to traditional methods
The environmental impact of traditional construction methods is significant, with the sector responsible for around 20% of New Zealand’s carbon emissions. Traditional building materials like timber and steel require substantial energy to produce and, further, generate a considerable amount of waste during construction. Conversely, 3D-printed concrete homes have the potential to reduce these emissions considerably. A recent study comparing three housing types—3D-printed (3DP), light steel-framed (LSF), and timber—revealed that 3D-printed homes emit 20% fewer carbon emissions than timber houses and 25% less than LSF houses.
This reduction is primarily due to the precision of 3D printing technology, which uses only the necessary amount of material, minimising waste and excess production. By
utilising advanced software like Building Information Modelling (BIM), the process is tightly controlled, ensuring that resources are used efficiently from start to finish. The cradle-to-cradle system used in assessing the environmental impact of 3D-printed homes has the potential to drastically reduce carbon emissions across their entire lifecycle.
Localised production and sustainable materials
One of the key advantages of 3D-printed concrete homes is the ability to source materials locally, which reduces the need for longdistance transportation and the associated fuel emissions.
QOROX, a New Zealandbased company leading the way in 3D concrete printing, has been working with local materials to optimise the sustainability of their products. Around 80% of the materials used in QOROX’s construction process are sourced locally, including a New Zealand-specific concrete mix designed to meet local standards.
Additionally, researchers at the University of Canterbury, led by Dr Giuseppe Loporcaro, are exploring the integration of low-carbon and recycled
One of the key advantages of 3D-printed concrete homes is the ability to source materials locally, which reduces the need for long-distance transportation and the associated fuel emissions.
materials into 3D-printed concrete. One innovative approach involves using waste products like mussel shells to create low-carbon building materials. Ultimately, these efforts aim to reduce the volume of concrete needed in construction, further lowering the carbon dioxide emissions associated with the process.
Energy efficiency and resilience
Energy efficiency is another area where 3D-printed homes outshine traditional builds.
The design flexibility offered by 3D printing allows for custom thermal insulation solutions, optimising energy conservation. Homes built using this technology can be tailored to maximise natural light, reduce heating and cooling needs, and minimise overall energy consumption. A 2021 study from the University of California found that 3D-printed homes are up to 30% more energy-efficient than conventional houses.
Moreover, 3D-printed homes are designed to
Image courtesy of Xiangli Li
Energy efficiency is another area where 3D-printed homes outshine traditional builds. The design flexibility offered by 3D printing allows for custom thermal insulation solutions, optimising energy conservation. Homes built using this technology can be tailored to maximise natural light, reduce heating and cooling needs, and minimise overall energy consumption. A 2021 study from the University of California found that 3D-printed homes are up to 30% more energy-efficient than conventional houses.
be durable and resilient, capable of withstanding the natural disasters to which New Zealand is prone. For example, in response to the February 2023 floods in Auckland, QOROX’s concrete homes were highlighted as a more resilient alternative to timber homes, which suffered significant water damage. Concrete homes, by contrast, would require far less repair work after such events, further reducing their environmental and economic costs over time.
Faster builds = lower emissions
One of the most significant advantages of 3D printing in construction is the speed of the building process. A traditional home build can take months (or even longer), with prolonged energy use and material waste on-site. In contrast, 3D printing dramatically shortens construction times. QOROX claims that their 3D printing technology can reduce the build time of a standard 200 square metre house by at
least seven weeks. Faster builds mean less energy consumed during construction, fewer emissions from machinery, and reduced demand for onsite labour.
In addition to speed, 3D-printed homes generate up to 70% less construction waste, according to QOROX. The precision of the printing process ensures that only the exact amount of material required is used, resulting in minimal leftover material and debris.
So what’s next?
As New Zealand continues to grapple with the dual challenges of a housing crisis and the need to reduce carbon emissions, 3D-printed concrete homes offer a promising solution. By cutting carbon emissions, reducing waste, and increasing energy efficiency, the innovative technology could help turn the construction sector into a key player in New Zealand’s journey toward a zero-carbon future.
A traditional home build can take months (or even longer), with prolonged energy use and material waste on-site. In contrast, 3D printing dramatically shortens construction times. QOROX claims that their 3D printing technology can reduce the build time of a standard 200 square metre house by at least seven weeks.
15 April - 30 September, with delivery by 31 October 2024
Your partner in quality joinery
Fairview Concepts Christchurch isn’t just a joinery supplier; they’re your partners in crafting your dream home. With over 25 years of experience delivering exceptional joinery solutions, they’ve become a trusted name for homeowners, builders, and architects alike.
Their comprehensive range of windows and doors caters to a range of projects, from brand new builds to renovations and upgrades. Whether you’re seeking classic elegance or contemporary flair, Fairview Concepts has the perfect solution to elevate your home’s style and functionality.
For those seeking to breathe new life into existing homes, Fairview Concepts offers a range of services beyond standard window and door replacement. They specialise in retro-double glazing existing aluminium
windows, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort without sacrificing the existing frames. They also cater to commercial projects, providing highquality joinery that meets the specific needs of businesses.
At the heart of Fairview Concepts’ philosophy lies collaboration. They understand the importance of teamwork, working closely with both clients and builders to ensure each project is completed to the highest standards. Their dedicated team takes the time to comprehend
your vision, offering expert advice and personalised recommendations every step of the way.
At the Fairview Concepts showroom, you can explore an extensive collection of windows, doors, and specialty hardware, all presented in a variety of colours and finishes. Imagine the possibilities!
One of Fairview Concepts’ greatest strengths is their ability to accommodate projects of all sizes. No job is too big or too small for their team of experts. Whether you’re building a sprawling new home or simply replacing a single window, they approach every project with the same dedication and commitment to quality.
The team goes beyond simply providing windows and doors. They understand the vital role joinery plays in creating a comfortable and energy-
efficient home. Their in-depth knowledge of New Zealand building requirements and weather conditions allows them to recommend the perfect products for your specific needs. From highperformance insulation options to the latest glass technology, Fairview Concepts offers solutions to meet any thermal and acoustic requirement.
For those with truly unique design aspirations, Fairview Concepts can create custommade windows of any shape or size, ensuring your vision becomes a reality. Their commitment to pushing boundaries is backed by the research and development expertise of FMI, allowing them to tackle even the most challenging architectural projects.
The team at Fairview Concepts understands that your home is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a reflection of your personality and lifestyle. Each element you choose, from windows and doors to finishes, contributes to the overall aesthetic and comfort of your space. They are passionate about guiding you through every step of the selection process, ensuring you make informed decisions that align perfectly with your vision.
Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a first-time homeowner, Fairview Concepts is here to assist you in creating a space you’ll love. Visit their stunning showroom at 26 Belfast Road, Christchurch, or contact their friendly team on 03 323 8887 to schedule a free consultation and quote.
26 Belfast Rd, Belfast Christchurch
A call for employers to hire boldly Boosting women’s
participation in construction
BCITO has launched a ‘Hire Boldly’ campaign aimed at employers in the building and construction trades, to help boost the number of women entering the industry.
The number of women in BCITO apprenticeships has grown from less than one percent in 2015; however, women still make up just over six percent of apprentices.
BCITO’s goal is to raise this figure to 10 percent by December 2025 by focusing on addressing ongoing misperceptions about women’s ability to take on physical jobs.
Reaching this goal will clearly signal the industry is moving forward and considering people based on skills and ability for the role, not gender.
In the painting industry, where 24 percent of BCITO apprentices are female, it is no longer unusual to see a woman at the business end of a spray gun, brush, or roller.
BCITO director Greg Durkin says “Despite the recent slowdown in resource consents and the pipeline of work for New Zealand’s building industry, it’s vital to ensure we have healthy numbers of new people entering the construction industry and building skills for the future. “Encouraging more women into the workforce is not only a matter of equality but a strategic
move to strengthen our industry’s resilience. Employers play a critical role in shaping the future of construction.”
In a 2021 report for the Women in Trades Collective, part of the industry initiative Trade
Careers, almost half of the employer survey respondents (48 percent) agreed that hiring and supporting women tradespeople was a challenge because it would be hard to accommodate pregnant women in the workplace.
Forty-six percent also said they would find it difficult to hire women because the workplace can be physically challenging.
Women looking for work cited receiving questions from potential employers such as “you realise there is dirt involved in this job?”, or the outright statement “we’re looking for a male”.
“When we have examples such as the BuildHERS project in Whenuapai, a four-bedroom home project-managed and built entirely by a female crew, they demonstrate how outdated or misinformed
these perceptions are. Women can do anything their male colleagues can do, and that’s what we hope to educate more employers about, to help the whole sector reach a goal of 30 percent female representation by 2040,” Greg says.
Employing more women in construction brings numerous benefits. By encouraging more women to join the workforce, employers can tap into a broader talent pool.
A diverse workforce also brings varied perspectives, leading to innovative solutions and improved problem-solving. Women can offer new ideas and approaches that benefit the entire industry.
Companies known for their commitment to diversity and inclusion often enjoy a better reputation, which can attract top talent and improve
relationships with clients and partners.
Meanwhile, more inclusive workplaces also tend to have higher employee satisfaction and retention rates.
Kevin Paul Painters and Decorators co-owner, Maria Williams, says “The women and the men bounce off each other in ways that enhance the job. It’s been fabulous for us. In fact, we’ve become quite successful through it.”
How employers can make a difference
Review hiring practices: Ensure that job advertisements and recruitment processes are inclusive and free from gender bias. Consider implementing blind recruitment practices to focus on skills and experience. Create supportive work environments: Develop policies
and practices that support work-life balance and provide a safe and respectful workplace for all employees. Consider flexible working arrangements and mentorship programmes.
Promote training and development: Encourage and support female employees to pursue training and career development opportunities. This not only benefits the individual but also strengthens the workforce’s overall skill set.
Lead by example: Senior leaders and managers should actively promote diversity and inclusion within their teams. This includes addressing any unconscious biases and championing the benefits of a diverse workforce.
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Transport project bringing Rolleston’s potential to life
By Jonathan Taylor
Dubbed the “Town of the Future” 50 years ago by then Prime Minister Norman Kirk, Rolleston is taking its next big leap into the future.
This comes in the wake of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) confirming the next stage of a Canterbury Road of Regional Significance project,
enabling design to be finalised. Rolleston Access Improvements Project will now progress through its final design stage.
This project includes a direct flyover connecting the expanding Rolleston township with the business/ industrial areas, futureproofing for growth, a more resilient transport network and improved safety for road users. Travelling through and around Rolleston will be more efficient and predictable.
LBP Inspections
Bathrooms & Kitchens
Brucey THE BUILDER
Bruce is a highly qualified and experienced senior carpenter, LBP Certified Builder member with over 20 years’ experience covering timber, concrete and steel construction.
0274 921 502 brucejhallinan@hotmail.com
Carports, Paving & Fences
Sleepouts Cladding & Wall Replacement
New Window Installations
Decks & Pergolas
Shop Fit Outs
Renovations Consented Work
Property Maintenance
Door Replacement
Interior Linings & Exterior Cladding Repairs
Commercial Repairs
Transportable Homes
Architectural Designed Steel Framed Homes
Beca has been appointed to complete the design stage for NZTA. This includes working through the planning and consent process, as well as continuing discussions with property or business owners in the project area.
Travelling through and around Rolleston will be more efficient and predictable.
This is expected to take up to 18 months, with construction expected to start in late 2025, subject to consenting, property purchase and funding.
Features include:
• A roundabout and pedestrian and cycle underpass (subway) at the Dunns Crossing and Walkers Road intersection with SH1
• A straight, two-lane bridge with walking and cycling facilities over SH1, which will extend Rolleston Drive North to Jones Road
• Removal of two sets of traffic signals at Hoskyns Road/ SH1 and Rolleston Drive North/SH1.
• Extending the two lanes southbound on the motorway from the current merge just south of Weedons to a new merge just south of the new Rolleston Drive North bridge
• Left in, left out at Rolleston Drive South, Tennyson Street and Brookside Road
• Left out only at Hoskyns Road onto SH1, forming a new northbound lane
• A service lane on the Rolleston town side of SH1 to allow for access to the businesses from Rolleston Drive North to Brookside Road.
CONTACT US
Phone : 0508 TORQUE
Email : info@ttanz.co.nz
Locations :
Rangiora : 343E Flaxton Road
Christchurch : 407 Ferry Road
Sockburn : 22 Lowther Street
ABOUT US
Torque Tyre & Auto is a locally created brand born in Rangiora. We opened our first shop in Rangiora under a different name in June 2022. After the huge amount of support we recieved we decided to create a brand that raises the bar for the rest of the industry. In June 2024 our Rangiora store was rebranded to become the first Torque Tyre & Auto, two months later we opened another store in Christchurch and one month after that we opened TTA Sockburn. If you want the best customer service and the best deals visit one of our three locations.
TTA Have you covered for all things automotive WHAT WE DO
Wheels & Tyres
4X4 Upgrades
WOF Repairs
Wheel Alignments
Servicing
Brakes
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Rangiora
sockburn
Christchurch
The South Island’s Trusted Civil Concrete Contractors
Canterbury Kerb & Concrete operates throughout the South Island. We have the management, staff, skill and machinery for any job.
We offer concrete, kerbing and hardscaping services for:
• Rural and Residential driveways and carparks
• Commercial and School sites • Maintenance Contracts
We offer complete concrete packages for all projects.
From major subdivisions to replacement driveways, we offer full excavation services and all types of concrete, including paving:
TradieGuide, a resource designed specifically to help anyone find skilled tradespeople, has released a series of detailed guides designed to help individuals identify top building providers in key regions.
The guides—Wellington Builders, Builders Christchurch, and Home Builders Auckland— offer in-depth insights tailored to the specific needs of residents in these areas.
The guides are essential tools for homeowners and property developers embarking on
construction projects, featuring a curated list of reputable and skilled builders.
Each guide has been carefully compiled to uphold the high standards of quality and reliability that TradieGuide is known for.
This initiative underscores TradieGuide’s commitment to enhancing customer experiences and supporting local industries by connecting consumers with trusted professionals.
The guides will be available on their respective websites starting next month, with the aim of simplifying the process of finding qualified building specialists in Wellington, Christchurch, and Auckland.
Connecting Christchurch to trusted plumbers
TradieGuide has also announced the launch of its new website, Plumbers Christchurch, a comprehensive resource designed to connect residents of Christchurch with trustworthy and skilled local plumbers.
The innovative platform addresses a wide range of plumbing needs, from routine maintenance and installations to urgent emergency services, ensuring quality and efficiency for every home and business.
Plumbers Christchurch features a user-friendly interface that allows visitors to easilyfind detailed information
about plumbing services, licensing requirements, and customer reviews.
The resource aims to boost consumer confidence by showcasing only vetted and highly recommended plumbers, streamlining the decision-making process for plumbing services.
This new guide is set to become an essential tool for anyone seeking top-quality plumbing solutions in Christchurch. By utilising advanced digital tools and prioritising customer service, Plumbers Christchurch is committed to meeting the evolving needs of the community.
Wrangling cowboy builders
By Ben O’Connell
The dream: a beautiful kitchen, a new extension, or a manicured garden. The reality? Incomplete projects, empty pockets, and a trail of unanswered calls.
Lacking a combination of qualifications, skills, and integrity, cowboy builders target unsuspecting homeowners and promise the world but deliver disaster.
Cowboy builders wave many red flags. If nothing is in writing, the quote is
suspiciously affordable, or they want a deposit as soon as a deal is struck, then beware. If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Ignoring red flags can mean an unsafe and unhealthy home, as well as legal and financial issues.
Perhaps it’s Kiwi humility, but Bruce says customers shouldn’t be afraid to ask tradespeople for evidence of their legitimacy. Sourcing authenticity statements from tradies should be easy. Hiring tradies involves a level of personal responsibility, especially when you’re spending a lot. Getting
at least three quotes for a project should suffice.
Do your homework, check the businesses out, look for verified reviews, and trust your gut.
Any great builder will have a social media presence and a dazzling portfolio of successful past projects, so it’s a concern if a trader lacks positive and recent reviews and references.
Slow, poor communication and a Gmail, Yahoo, or Xtra email address are two other digital alarm bells.
People are often not as Internet literate as they think. Fact-check your research across multiple websites. Remember that any licensed practitioner will be listed online. Further, anyone can leave a Google review, and there are people paid to give businesses five-star references.
“Google is a double-edged sword,” says co-founder and general manager of NoCowboys, Bruce Lindsay.
NoCowboys helps Kiwis find reputable tradespeople. Founded in 2006, the intuitive website hosts over 11,000 businesses and invites tradies to reply to negative reviews. NoCowboys’ specialised AI software verifies and checks reviews for inconsistencies.
“Most tradies are great. To get a cowboy is bad luck,” Bruce says. Licensed Building Practitioners have had 42 complaints so far this year. MBIE says there were 207 complaints made for the year ended August 2022. For context, Stats NZ reported that in February 2022, New
Zealand’s construction industry was comprised of 77,160 enterprises.
Illegitimate traders use many strategies. Some change their names. Some target the vulnerable, such as retirees and the poor. Some take the phoenix trading approach, burning one business only to start another soon after, continuing trade as if nothing happened. Do your due diligence.
Bruce notes that there are some cowboys listed at www.nocowboys.co.nz, not because the site supports
these tradespeople but so potential clients can be aware of dodgy builders. The website’s purpose is to host conversations and hold tradies accountable. The fact that cowboy builders passionately hate NoCowboys is perhaps their best advertising. Businesses can register with NoCowboys to permanently capture and leverage their
existing goodwill with a customisable webpage.
Fraudulent tradespeople leave a trail wherever they go, on and offline. Bruce says the answer to protecting yourself from cowboys is simple: “Do your homework, check the businesses out, look for verified reviews, and trust your gut.”
Tranquil accommodation from hotel rooms to studio suites, mezzanine units and an executive suite. Guests can unwind with a drink and meal at the neighbouring restaurant and bar where conference spaces are also available. Totara Lodge is your home away from home, whether you are in Upper Hutt on business or holiday.
Specialists in Earthworks | Civil Construction
Pavements | Carpark Construction
Industrials Yards | Farm Tracks
Siteworks | Build-digs
CS CivilWorks is a growing Christchurch based provider of earthworks, foundation digouts, landscaping, carpark and industrial yard construction and maintenance, and site works services, with a delivery footprint across the Canterbury region.
With nearly 40 years in the contracting & consulting industries, we have an extensive network of relationships across the engineering, contracting, sub-contractor and supplier networks, which allows us to provide solutions and services to clients across a much wider spectrum of project delivery than our immediate team and skills.
Our communicative approach allows us to collaborate closely with our clients, consultants, Council consent & engineering staff and stakeholders from the early stages of a project, providing value-added solutions and driving value and efficiency in the construction process. We place a strong focus on technical expertise, and excel in identifying and resolving design and constructability issues before and during construction, ensuring successful and timely project delivery.
Liquefaction research delivers new tools for earthquake engineers
One of New Zealand’s leading experts on liquefaction, Professor Misko Cubrinovski and his team from the University of Canterbury, have developed new tools to predict how different soils respond in future earthquakes.
The three-year project was funded by EQC Toka Tū Ake to improve the analysis of liquefaction risk in different soil types, by incorporating advanced learnings from the past decade.
“The old methods did not reflect the interaction between different layers of soils that can increase damage to buildings in earthquakes or in other cases actually prevent damage from liquefaction,” says Professor Cubrinovski, who explains that the improved liquefaction risk analysis will better inform developers and engineers where and how to build more resilient buildings.
In recent years, New Zealanders have become familiar with the peculiar and damaging natural phenomena that pushes liquefaction slush to the surface during earthquakes and destabilises ground conditions.
By Jonathan Taylor
Cubrinovski explains that liquefaction effects depend on the dynamic response of soils during shaking, water flow through soils and the composition of the nearsurface layers, which can either amplify or prevent liquefaction.
“By creating a model that predicts how these three aspects interact, we can now better quantify how different soils will respond in an earthquake,” he says.
“Liquefaction is one of our largest seismic hazards,” says Prof Cubrinovski, who adds that nearly 40% of the economic losses of the Canterbury earthquakes were caused by liquefaction.
“That was a huge amount, around $12-15 billion, and included damage to water infrastructure, bridges, high rises and caused lots of longterm issues like the red zone.”
Cubrinovski explains that New Zealand is extremely prone to liquefaction, even in moderate shaking, because of its relatively young soils and high seismic hazard.
The Macedonian scientist was motivated to become an earthquake engineer after growing up in the rubble of Skopje, after the capital was hit by a major earthquake in 1963.
Before arriving in Christchurch in 2005, Cubrinovski had worked for many years in Japan
alongside Professor Ishihara, one of the founding researchers on liquefaction, so he was surprised to find that New Zealand had no guidelines for engineers to deal with liquefaction.
The EQC research team, along with MBIE and NZGS, recognised the gap and supported Cubrinovski and colleague Kevin McManus to develop the first such guidelines in New Zealand.
“We published them in July 2010, two months before the first Christchurch earthquake, which was a timely arrival of a very useful document for the profession,” notes the professor.
The Canterbury and Kaikōura earthquakes provided the researchers with a unique opportunity to study the liquefaction and associated damage to develop a ground-breaking new system response analysis that reflects all the moving parts that cause liquefaction.
As part of the new tool kit for engineers, the team created specialist sampling techniques to retrieve soil samples while preserving the density of the soil and computer models to simulate how ground and structures might behave in liquefiable soils during earthquakes.
“We particularly focused on vulnerable soils, like reclaimed land in Wellington harbour, where we noticed a lot more damage to buildings than you might have expected in that level of shaking. Those highquality soil samples gave us invaluable new insights around liquefaction.”
EQC invested $437,000 from its University Research Programme to support the project at the University of Canterbury and last year renewed the funding for another three-year cycle recognising the significance of the research.
Professor Misko Cubrinovski, right, and his team investigate the impact of liquefaction after the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake on the Wellington waterfront
InsulFound™ is an insulation system for new or existing concrete slabs. It comprises of rigid foam insulation that significantly increasesthe thermal performance of your concrete slab and is protected externally by water-resistant treated forma-board.
Available in a number of profiles, there is an InsulFound™ solution for any concrete slab, old or new.
Use as boxing (if desired)
‘Reasonable grounds’ tests redefined
All building work nationwide must comply with the Building Code, even if it doesn’t require a building consent.
Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) must grant a building consent if satisfied on reasonable grounds that Code provisions will be met if work is done per the plans accompanying the consent application. But what does ‘satisfied on reasonable grounds’ actually mean?
Per the government, “there has historically been no set definition of what ‘satisfied on reasonable grounds’ means, leading to different outcomes across the country.” In 2022, the Commerce Commission published a market study into residential building supplies, which recommended clear guidance on applying the ‘reasonable grounds’ test for granting building consents.
Now, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has developed guidance to provide consistency for BCAs when applying the ‘reasonable grounds’ test. Designers, builders, homeowners, and consent authorities alike benefit from this guidance.
Reasonable grounds tests exist because every building project is unique. BCAs assess via judgment calls whether facts, circumstances, and evidence are sufficient enough; for the BCA to be satisfied on reasonable grounds.
This allows for variation in the type of evidence depending on the circumstances. For example, less evidence and detail in the plans and specifications for a relatively simple project designed to comply with Acceptable Solutions versus more evidence and more details for a complex project that includes alternative solutions.
The BCA is ultimately responsible for building consent outcomes. Other parties play a key role in contributing to whether a building consent authority can be satisfied on reasonable grounds. Owners, designers, and builders have roles that collectively ensure
This can be an Acceptable Solution, Verification Method or standard, but it is important to look at the wording in the Building Code and the principles of building science.
Judgement calls consider risk, complexity, previous knowledge of similar situations, skills and experience of persons providing the evidence and the quality of that evidence.
The guidance aims to provide clearer obligations and expectations, reduce processing delays, and streamline the experience for all involved in the building consent system.
A mix of competency and experience generally underpins good decision-making processes and outcomes.
that building projects comply with regulations and standards, uphold the safety and quality of the built environment, and maintain the integrity of the building consent process. This includes adhering to established guidelines, maintaining professional competency, and exercising sound judgment throughout the process.
To be satisfied on reasonable grounds, BCAs must make a qualitative assessment that requires an informed judgment call. An objective test is capable of measurement, assessment and comparison.
Key principles
The government outlines four key principles that BCAs could consider when deciding if they are satisfied on reasonable grounds. Decisions should consider the applicant’s competency, the complexity of the project, past compliance, and available evidence (such as design drawings, specifications, and certifications).
Evidence
The reference to ‘evidence’ as a key principle relates to all information, drawings, specifications, and other
documents according to which a building is proposed to be constructed, altered, demolished, or removed.
Risk
A risk-based approach fosters a reasoned and proactive approach to identifying specific risks and implementing appropriate practices or processes to respond to those risks. A risk-based approach focuses or places a greater emphasis on activities with a higher risk of non-compliance and/or a greater risk to the built environment in the event of noncompliance, which is the most efficient and effective means of managing risk.
Competencies and experience
A mix of competency and experience generally underpins good decision-making processes and outcomes.
Regulation 10 of the Building (Accreditation of Building Consent Authorities) Regulations 2006 is intended to ensure all prospective and current building control staff performing building control functions have had their competency established.
The BCA only needs to be satisfied on reasonable grounds, not beyond all reasonable doubt. However, any good decisionmaking processes should be underpinned by sound and traceable reasons for decisions and include a rational outcome.
Visit www.building.govt.nz/ building-officials/guides-forbuilding-officials/satisfied-onreasonable-grounds for more.
AVAILABLE AT 9AM TO 6PM 35 Heywards Road, Clarkville, Christchurch
Housing stock and affordability Why Canterbury is outperforming many regions in New Zealand
Despite significant losses during the 2011 earthquake, Canterbury is outperforming other regions around New Zealand when it comes to housing stock and affordability.
Research from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) shows the unusually collaborative approach taken to planning and funding both before and after the quakes has made Canterbury a leader, providing lessons to other parts of the country experiencing housing shortages and high prices.
Given New Zealand experienced its largest-ever population increase in the year to December 2023, it’s particularly urgent to assess how Canterbury has succeeded in turning around a significant deficit in less than 15 years.
Each year since 2011, there have been more than 500 new dwellings consented in Canterbury for every 1,000 additional people, while prices are lower than in the other major centres.
“Although Canterbury lost over 9,000 homes during
By Jonathan Taylor
the earthquake, it has built itself back and is well along the path out of a housing shortage, says Ting Huang, senior economist at NZIER.
“Our research shows that although house prices and rents initially rose between 2011 and 2015, they relatively flatlined between 2016 and 2019 once the destroyed housing stock had been replaced. The price gap between Canterbury and New Zealand as a whole has widened since the last year of the earthquake rebuild.”
The reasons are rooted in Canterbury’s tradition of region-wide planning. Even prior to the earthquakes, there was a history of local government, central
government and tangata whenua working together on urban development.
Several organisations came together in 2007 to develop the Greater Christchurch Urban Development Strategy – a shared plan for how the city would develop over 35 years, providing a foundation for the post-earthquake recovery.
The establishment of the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) created a partnership between the central government, local councils and iwi to co-ordinate efforts and decision-making post-2011. Its centralised leadership role helped to provide certainty over the earthquake rebuild and
fast-track consents, using specific powers included in the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Act 2011 to expedite the rebuild.
Examples include providing owners of damaged properties and land certainty over insurance coverage, to help incentivise repair and rebuilding of the affected stock, as well as forming cross-agency alliances with construction companies to fast-track infrastructure and opening up more greenfield land to enable more residential development. Direct funding was also provided by central government for housing and infrastructure.
More controversially, CERA was also able to override local councils to bring forward the rezoning of residential land to allow for greater housing density and speed up consenting processes, reducing the scope for appeal.
“We know that the model has not been without its problems. For example, after the Christchurch City Council developed a draft Central City Plan in 2011 and gained widespread community support, central government intervened and gave CERA responsibility for leading the central city recovery. This led to a perception that central government had interfered with a local initiative,” Ting says.
Pakawau Beach Camp sits on the sea front enabling you to enjoy the sounds of waves meeting the shore, to amazing sunrise and sunsets over the ocean.
Come and pitch your tent, park your camper van or stay in one of our beach front cabins.
Less than a 20-minute drive from Pakawau you will discover an abundance of stunning scenery including, Cape Farewell, Farewell Spit, Puponga Farm and Wharariki Beach.
Pakawau Beach Camp 03 524 8308
accompakawaubeachpark@gmail.com
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Are you at risk of melanoma?
Did you know that New Zealand has the highest rate of melanoma in the world? Every day, around 7 New Zealanders are diagnosed with melanoma - it’s the most serious form of skin cancer and it can quickly become deadly.1,2
That’s why MoleMap’s proven skin-mapping system is designed to detect skin cancers such as melanoma early – when it’s most treatable.3
We check.
And double-check.
With MoleMap you get two sets of expert eyes examining any moles of concern: a trained Melanographer and an experienced specialist Dermatologist.
Fewer scars. Fewer scares.
Because MoleMap can more accurately identify melanoma, there is less need to surgically remove benign (harmless) moles.1
Early detection makes a difference.
Early melanoma detection offers a up to 95% chance of survival within 5 years. That’s why it’s always worth checking.
Clinics held weekly in Rangiora, Ashburton and Timaru
Because Every Life Has A Story Worth Sharing
When somebody we love departs, Gulliver & Tyler are here to work with you and your family to meet and exceed the outcomes you deserve. Our personable and professional team are here to serve you and our community when you need us.
Build your own masterpiece with New Zealand’s Most Awarded Master Builder Brand.
Hornby Club, part of your community for over 65 years
Join more than 10,000 Hornby Club members and enjoy the Club’s new Pavilion Café, Legends Sports Bar with a 6m by 4m big screen, Chalmers family Restaurant, and modern meeting & function spaces for groups of 4 to 400.
