Elevate Waikato Issue #3

At Seddon Park Funeral Home we’ve been proudly celebrating life with you for over 25 years.

Where to start

We will assist you in creating a meaningful funeral service that remembers and celebrates the life of your loved one.

Chapel

Prepare for the future

Planning for the future means that you can ensure your wishes are carried out.

Our purpose-built, air-conditioned chapel can seat 170 people, with room for overflow. We are able to record the service onto DVD, and display PowerPoint and DVD presentations to personalise the service. Music can be played directly from Itunes.We are also able to web-stream the service for family and friends who cannot attend the funeral and would like to watch on the internet as it happens. The chapel has an electronic piano/organ.

The reception area, complete with a fully equipped kitchen is adjacent to the chapel Foyer and opens onto the private courtyard providing full after-funeral reception facilities.

Bereavement

Everyone responds differently to Grief, however it is a normal and healthy response to loss.

Arrangement Room

A comfortable air conditioned room is available for funeral arrangements with an additional room where family and friends may spend time with the deceased.

Refreshments & Catering

Reminisce with your family and friends without needing to travel to another venue. We have a reception area, complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, which is adjacent to the chapel foyer. This opens onto a large private courtyard. We supply high quality refreshments, and staff to serve and clean after the service. Our Facilities

Services

What you need to know about the

This issue of Elevate features a frank discussion with the CEO of New Zealand Certified Builders, Malcolm Fleming, who gives valuable insight about the various issues the industry faces today, and in the future.

We also delve into our national housing crisis with a piece called ‘From the ground up’ where we discuss the case for increased housing density with Guy Marriage.

new product information requirements and feature articles on how to make price cuts pay, ways to reduce the risk in building projects, and tips on how to navigate your finances from a veteran tradie. There are also articles on how to get your head around goal setting, using AI in project management, and how technology both enables and restricts employees... plus lots more.

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Key changes to the NZS3910:2023 contract

After 10 years of the construction industry using the NZS3910:2013 terms, the NZS3910:2023 was released in November 2023.

However, the sector is not yet familiar with the changes and many parties in practice are still opting for the old, accustomed contract base.

Standards New Zealand said the new terms “lessen the need to add special conditions of contract, thereby improving consistency, familiarity and efficiency in construction contracting,” but that is what they said 10 years ago with the 2013 terms when it was “revamped” from the 2003 terms saying it “resulted in clearer wording and a reduced need for extensive special conditions”.

Extensive special conditions continued to be included nonetheless. In any case, here are the major changes this time.

1.

Contract

administrator and independent certifier

The role of the Engineer to the Contract (which has always been challenging) has been formally split into two distinct roles of “Contract Administrator” (acting as the Principal’s agent in a project management kind of role), and the “Independent

Certifier,” who is to make determinations and issue certificates independently.

2. Variations

Amendments have been made to the variations clause to incorporate contract price adjustment mechanisms and to highlight the split roles of the Contract Administrator and Independent Certifier. The variations clause which will inevitably cause many disputes will therefore require careful review by all.

3. Cost fluctuation

The presumption that cost fluctuations will not apply to the contract price has been reversed, and the default terms now stipulate that a cost fluctuation adjustment shall be made unless the parties specifically agree otherwise in the Specific Conditions.

This may reflect the changes in the market after Covid-19 where parties were frequently agreeing to cost fluctuations where contractors held bargaining power, but in the current market where many “fixed lump sum” prices are fixed without cost fluctuations, this will create a further amendment to the “current norm”.

4. Target price contract option

A new “target price” contract price option has been

A new clause has been added to ensure the Contractor takes all reasonably practicable steps to prevent any act or omission that could harm the environment, or breach any relevant law or consent.

added in addition to the previous types of contracts which included lump sum, measure and value, and cost reimbursement.

The new “target price” will allow parties to share the benefits of savings or the burden of exceeding the “budget” when the actual price is below or above the target price based on preagreed percentages. It will be interesting to see if there is an appetite for this in the market.

5. Bonds

The form of a Principal’s bond and Contractor’s performance bond has been amended to remove the reference to joint and several liability for the bond amount.

It will again be interesting to see whether parties will commonly opt for bonds in lieu of retentions, given the recent changes to the retentions regime in October 2023 that generally made retentions management and obligations very onerous in practice.

6. Extensions of time

A two-stage process for notification of an extension of time claim has been introduced now which could catch people out if they are not accustomed to this new change, requiring the Contractor to provide initial notice of the circumstances relied on as grounds for the extension and a subsequent notice detailing the period of the extension sought.

This may be onerous for smaller Contractors who may simply send two notices at once or may opt to amend this back to the old terms, but we will have to see.

7. Contractor’s

liability

The scope of a Contractor’s indemnity in favour of the Principal has been narrowed, removing the previous “no fault” indemnity. Furthermore, there is now a cap on the Contractor’s liability, with specific exclusions, which may reflect the changes and difficulties in the insurance market.

8. Management plans and reporting:

The requirement for the Contractor to prepare various plans (such as safety plan, quality plan and traffic management plan) has been streamlined, with only the site-specific safety plan now being mandatory.

Additionally, a new clause requires the Contractor to regularly report on matters recorded in the Specific Conditions, something which again the Contractor can be caught out by if they do not pay attention to the changes.

9. Environmental protection

A new clause has been added to ensure the Contractor takes all reasonably practicable steps to prevent any act or omission that could harm the

environment, or breach any relevant law or consent.

This appears to be in form with the general “trend” of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) regulations and changes in the market.

10. Final account

The concept of a “Final Account” and “Interim Final Account” has now been introduced, which the Contractor must prepare and serve on the Independent Certifier (being one of the two separated roles of the Engineer) to set out the Contract Price, along with all variation claims and other adjustments.

11. Dispute resolution

Significant changes have been made to the dispute resolution provisions, requiring senior

representatives of the parties to attempt to resolve disputes in the first instance (which we have always recommended in any case), with options for mediation or arbitration if unsuccessful. These changes appear to reflect the need to urgently resolve matters, often through alternative dispute resolution processes for construction disputes, as cash is the bloodline of the industry.

Conclusion

Overall, the changes in the NZS3910:2023 contract aim to ensure that it is widely accepted, fit for purpose, limits the need for special conditions (or so they say), improves understanding of contracts, and that risk is allocated fairly.

Principals, Contractors, and Consultants will need to become familiar with the new version and will certainly need to amend their “standard special conditions” to accommodate the new template changes.

If you have any property, construction, or litigation queries, please feel free to contact Tina Hwang or Marcus Beveridge at Queen City Law. We have taken care to ensure that the information given is accurate, however, it is intended for general guidance only and should not be relied upon in individual cases. Professional advice should be always be sought before any decision or action is taken.

Full disclosure

What you need to know about the new product information requirements

By Ben Mitchell, a solicitor from Auckland law firm Martelli McKegg

If you manufacture, import, advertise, or sell products in New Zealand that are used in construction, you will need to make sure to comply with the new product information disclosure requirements imposed by the Building (Building Product Information Requirements) Regulations 2022 (Regulations).

What products do the disclosure requirements apply to?

The disclosure requirements imposed by the Regulations apply to “designated building products” of which there are two classes.

The first category (Class 1) is a building product that:

• Is mass produced or is produced in batches to a general specification; and

• Is available for wholesale or retail purchase; and

Unfortunately, the Regulations do not define “building work”. However, it is likely this will be interpreted to be consistent with the expansive definition under the Building Act 2004.

• Is new (and not used); and

• When used in building work, may affect whether the building work complies with the building code; and

• Is not a product of a kind described in regulation 7.

The second category (Class 2) is a building product that:

• Is based on a line of products where each unit is customised to the specification of the client; and

• Is new (and not used); and

• When used in building work, may affect whether the building work complies with the building code; and

• Is not a product of the kind described in regulation 7.

Although the Regulations establish two classes of captured products, the first and essential question to be asked is, if used in building work is, how likely will the product affect how the building work complies with the building code?

If the answer is that the product “may” affect how the building work complies with the building code, it is very likely the disclosure requirements of the Regulations will apply.

Unfortunately, the Regulations do not define “building work”. However, it is likely this will be interpreted to be consistent with the expansive definition under the Building Act 2004.

The use of the word “may” is of crucial importance. It suggests that the threshold is low and if there is a chance, it is very likely the product will be captured.

The Regulations do helpfully provide some examples of captured products. However, it does need to be noted these are just examples.

In terms of Class 1:

• Cladding products

• Mechanical fixings

• Insulation products

• Internal lining products

• Roofing products

• Structural wood-based products

• Structural steel and reinforcing products

• Sanitary plumbing and drainage products, including tapware. For Class 2, just one example has been provided. This being “external window joinery and doors that have been customised to the specifications of individual clients”.

The type of information that you will need to disclose depends on whether the product falls into Class 1 or Class 2.

Undoubtedly, there will be some products that will clearly be captured, such as the above examples. However, for other products, it is less clear. For example, while some paint could be said to be purely aesthetic, other types of paint provide important waterproofing qualities that certainly affect how building work will comply with the building code.

If you believe your product may be captured, the next question to ask is whether the product is excluded under regulation 7 of the Regulations. These excluded products are:

• A building product which has a product certificate registered under s 272A of the Building Act 2004

• A temporary building product that does not form part of the building when construction is complete.

The example given is a barrier used during demolition or construction

• A building product that is - A gas appliance or fitting (within the meaning of s 2(1) of the Gas Act 1992).

- An electrical appliance or fitting (within the meaning of s 2(1) of the Electricity Act 1992).

While it might be appealing to look into obtaining a product certificate under section 272A of the Building Act 2004, this does come with significant administrative hurdles and cost. Whether it is worthwhile to obtain a product certificate would need to be a separate article. However, it could certainly be the case

that if the product justifies it, a product certificate could be an option.

When do the disclosure requirements apply?

The disclosure requirements imposed by the Regulations apply to “designated building products manufactured in, or imported into, New Zealand,” from (including) 11 December 2023.

While this suggests there is still some time for people who merely sell building products that were manufactured or imported into New Zealand before this date, those products will soon be sold and replaced with captured products.

If you manufacture or import into New Zealand a captured product, the disclosure requirements already apply.

Who is responsible for what in relation to a captured product?

The requirements imposed on you depend on which category of “responsible person” you fall into. Again, there are two categories.

The first category (Category 1) is a person living, or incorporated, in New Zealand, that is the manufacturer or importer of the captured product. This category is responsible to:

These requirements need to be complied with before the captured product is ordered for supply by a wholesaler, retailer, or other distributer of the captured product.

These requirements need to be complied with before the

captured product is ordered by a client.

Regardless of whether you may fall into Category 1 or Category 2, there are going to be significant practicality difficulties in complying with the above obligations.

What information needs to be disclosed?

As noted above, if you fall into Category 1, you are required to “collate and produce the required product information.” However, even if you fall into Category 2, the type of information that needs to be collated and produced may be of concern to you and your business.

The type of information that you will need to disclose depends on whether the product falls into Class 1 or Class 2. Unfortunately, the lists are too long to repeat in full but they both relevantly include:

• A description of the captured product (including the name of the product and its intended use).

• Whether overseas or in New Zealand, the legal and trading name of the manufacturer or manufacturers, including its address/addresses, its internet site (if any), its public email (if any), its NZBN (if any).

• Likewise, if the captured product is imported, the information immediately above is required for the importer.

• A statement specifying the clauses of the building code that are relevant, with

a statement of the captured product’s intended scope and use.

• How the captured product is expected to contribute to the relevant clauses of the building code.

• Information on the limitations of the captured product.

• Installation requirements.

• Maintenance requirements. Although this is not a comprehensive summary of both lists, it should give a good idea of the extent of the information that will need to be disclosed.

The consequences of non-compliance

There are consequences for non-compliance. Under s 362VB of the Building Act 2004, if you, “in trade”, supply, offer to supply, advertise the supply of, or import into New Zealand for the purpose of supply, a captured product under the Regulations, you can be convicted of an offence and liable, in the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $10,000, and in the case of a body corporate, to a fine not exceeding $30,000.00.

Ben Mitchell Martelli McKegg Law Firm

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The state of our built future

Q&A with NZCB CEO Malcolm Fleming

By Ben O’Connell

Uncertainty about forward workloads and a lack of government direction regarding the future of vocational education and apprentice training; these are the two biggest challenges chief executive of New Zealand Certified Builders, Malcolm Fleming, believes Kiwi tradespeople face today.

But with construction costs growing and regulations changing, his role oversees an extensive list of industry issues.

The construction industry is facing a significant skills shortage. How do NZCB think we can best attract and retain talent within the industry?

This is a cyclical issue that became particularly evident during the housing boom that followed COVID-19, a period that saw new building consent numbers rise above 40,000 on a 12-month average for the first time since the mid-1970s. The peak occurred in 2022 when new residential building consents hit 50,000. The 2024 market is very different from what it was even 12 months ago, with skills shortages no longer the issue it was, as demand for those skills has reduced.

That said, NZCB is very focused on both attracting people to consider a carpentry apprenticeship and supporting those apprentices who are employed by our members. We have two significant programmes of work: the NZCB Apprentice Network, which welcomes apprentices into the NZCB community and supports them across their four-year apprenticeship; and a series of Carpentry Role workshops that set out a career pathway for newly graduated apprentices, which builds on their core skills to assist them growing competency in roles such as

training, something that our Carpentry Role programme addresses.

What factors have caused construction costs to rise?

My view is that the current high cost of building is the most significant issue facing the construction industry. New Zealand’s isolation, our small market size, and the embedded risk aversion across Building Consent Authorities (BCAs), designers, and builders alike, all contribute to the high construction prices in our country.

• On the isolation front, disruptions to shipping

The most significant impact on the cost of building across the past year has been the implementation of H1 (increased energy efficiency standards since 1 May 2023) to the Building Code. This change has led to cost escalation in construction costs and accelerated the housing affordability issue.

Leading Hand, Foreperson, and Site Manager.

Coming into the NZCB role, I was struck by a lack of career mapping and ongoing occupational skills development for carpenters post their apprenticeship

lanes in the northern hemisphere (the RussiaUkraine war restricting shipping on the Black Sea, Houthis attacks on shipping on the Red Sea, and climate-induced droughts impacting the Panama Canal) have added

to the cost of bringing goods to New Zealand

• Our small market size does not make it attractive for international manufacturers of building products or systems to set up a distribution base here, particularly when they will have to compete head-tohead with well-established local players

• Our main issue is the risk aversion triangle, which sees none of the three main players in the building consent process (designers, builders, BCAs) wishing to take on risk, which translates to all parties staying with products and systems that are proven with good track records, and which are well supported locally.

As an association, NZCB is addressing affordability through its new range of Certified Plans that will be released in Q3 2024.

Designed by one of the country’s largest architectural practices, a small range of entry-level houses will utilise new building methodologies to reduce construction time and practice the maxim “less is more” by demonstrating that through smart design, New Zealanders can trim their floor plans significantly, which when cost per square metre is $5,000+, reducing the size of the homes we live in by 20 percent or more, translates to significant savings.

With Certified Plans being designed by one of the country’s largest New Zealand Institute of Architects practices, NZCB is bringing award-winning design to a much larger audience.

More broadly, the construction industry has been advocating for a range of changes to the building regulatory system, which MBIE has been receptive to across the last two years.

Some of those ideas include increasing the range of products and systems that can be specified in the New Zealand market, introducing efficiencies within the BCA, and inspecting regime. These ideas are not new, though they are now being accelerated by a new government wanting to see quick progress on solving the very real issue of high building costs.

What are the biggest impacts of regulatory changes you’ve seen so far?

The most significant impact on the cost of building across the past year has been the implementation of H1 (increased energy efficiency standards since 1 May 2023) to the Building Code. This change has led to cost escalation in construction costs and accelerated the housing affordability issue.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE) has signalled that H1 is the first step in creating regulations that will enable the construction sector to play its part to ensure that New Zealand meets its Paris Accord commitment to reduce the country’s carbon emission levels by 50 per cent (from 2005 levels) by 2030.

Given the pledge that New Zealand has made internationally, there is no pulling back from this direction of travel. We do however, need to offset the rising costs that are a consequence of increased specification requirements by making it easier to use proven products and systems from larger markets here in New Zealand.

As touched on already, there are positive signs that the regulator MBIE is fast-tracking some changes in this area of opening the New Zealand market to a broader range of building product and system providers.

Given the current economic climate, what is your outlook for the New Zealand building industry over the next few years?

We are at the bottom of the current economic cycle, with high interest rates, reduced consumer spending, and now a fiscal belt-tightening by the government, flowing through to a 20 percent drop in new home building consents down to levels last seen two to three years prior to the pandemic. We should expect that this level of demand will represent

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Niamh

the new normal for the next two to three years.

What we are observing now is that designers and builders who have positioned themselves as operators in the new residential space only are suffering, while those who operate across a range of markets, in combination with having a good customer base, have maintained good forward workloads.

For builders specifically, NZCB members, by virtue of them being trade-qualified, have largely filled the void created by a fall in demand for new home construction by picking up alterations and additions (often with a client who can no longer make a new build work), light commercial, education work, and in recent times, flood and cyclone remediation work.

New Zealand still needs new housing, along with

vertical infrastructure that either needs to be newly constructed or maintained.

Neither driver can be put off for too long, so smart operators who can demonstrate excellence in what they do, have good systems and processes, and take the opportunity to leverage new and emerging technologies to build faster and more efficiently will do well both now, and when demand starts rising again.

What has been your most rewarding experience as chief executive of NZCB?

Good trade associations develop a strong sense of community amongst its members, something NZCB has in spades, which, for someone like me who practices the notion of active custodianship keenly, is an appealing characteristic.

What I am finding particularly rewarding with NZCB is the blending of that strong sense of community and our members’ pride in their carpentry craft, with a real hunger from the membership to see the NZCB’s industry and public profile be amplified and their enthusiastic support for the progressive new initiatives and programmes that we are currently bringing to market.

Is the government doing enough to protect and support the building and construction industry?

Yes and no. Yes, the new government is signalling a keenness to streamline the building consent system and make it easier for building products and systems that are used successfully and widely in overseas markets, to be specified here.

New Zealand needs a skilled construction workforce of scale to both construct the built environment we need and maintain the housing, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure we have. This lack of foresight is discouraging.

This will rely on the approval system being both robust (ensuring products can meet New Zealand’s climatic conditions and involving third-party accreditation requirements) and that applications are processed

in a cost-effective and timely manner (currently barriers to new entrants). This is all quite promising.

No, the new government’s cancellation of planned vertical infrastructure projects is creating havoc, as designers and builders alike, who as recently as three months ago had a project to either bid on or to start construction on, now have voids in their forward workload.

New Zealand needs a skilled construction workforce of scale to both construct the built environment we need and maintain the housing, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure we have. This lack of foresight is discouraging.

What steps is the NZCB taking to promote sustainable building practices among its members?

In looking at solving a significant issue such as sustainability, it is wise to identify what it is you can control in your ‘lane’. For NZCB, that ‘lane’ is how we look to minimise construction waste, which accounts for over half of the waste that makes it to New Zealand’s landfills. This is an area that NZCB will be applying some focus to. Also in our ‘lane’ is the revised range of Certified Plans, the brief for which includes strong sustainability building practices and product types. These designs will be an active demonstration of NZCB’s proactivity in the sustainability space.

Why should builders consider membership with NZCB?

With the membership prerequisite being a completed carpentry apprenticeship (NZ

Certificate in Carpentry Level 4 or equivalent), NZCB membership is a quality mark for homeowners wishing to engage a builder.

Consistent across the membership is that pride in their carpentry craft, which generates a strong sense of NZCB community, with a membership proposition that includes access to building contracts, a ten-year building warranty product, and a strong commitment to providing a substantive educational programme to NZCB members.

With 2,300 business members who work primarily in the residential market, NZCB has a clear mandate on who its membership base is and who we advocate on behalf of. That purity of focus is compelling for tradequalified residential builders. Visit: www.nzcb.nz for more.

Malcolm Fleming Chief executive of NZ Certified Builders

Dogging

Rigging

Crane

Truck

Office Administration

Making price cuts pay

Discounting - a strategic move or mistake?

By Daniel Fitzpatrick from Next Level Tradie

Are you finding yourself struggling to secure enough work for your team? Or maybe you’ve noticed that the amount of confirmed work booked ahead is shrinking?

When work starts to dry up, it affects the bottom line. Do you start discounting to get the work or wait it out till things get better?

It’s a situation some tradies are facing right now, and it’s not easy. But before you start slashing prices here are a few things to consider.

Disappearing profit

Profits and margins can disappear alarmingly fast once you start cutting your prices, and here’s why.

Let’s say your gross profit margin is around 20 percent. If you reduce your prices on a job by 10 percent, the volume of work you need to complete just to maintain the same dollar profit increases significantly.

For example, if your break-even point is $100,000 per month at a gross profit margin of 20 percent, and you reduce your prices by 10 percent you now need $200,000 of work to reach break-even. That’s twice the work, time, and effort, for the same result you were previously getting.

It’s a stark reminder that while reducing prices might seem like a viable strategy to attract more jobs, the impact on your bottom line can be significant.

Not only does it increase your workload, but it also puts a strain on you and your team, sometimes compromising quality. Too many rushed jobs that go wrong can also affect your reputation.

Target Gross Margin could be anywhere between 20 to 60 percent, depending on the trade and your position in the market. High or low end.

I don’t like to see anything under 20 percent minimum in any trade; less than 20 percent is too difficult to make a profit. If you want some help to work out your target gross margin and where you should be for your business, then check out

When work starts to dry up, it affects the bottom line. Do you start discounting to get the work or wait it out till things get better?

It’s a situation some tradies are facing right now, and it’s not easy. But before you start slashing prices here are a few things to consider.

So, before you consider cutting your rates, crunch the numbers and understand the real impact on your business’s profitability.

What’s your target gross margin?

Understanding your target gross margin is crucial in determining which jobs are worth your effort. Your target gross margin is the percentage of profit you aim to make on each job after all direct costs, including wages, are subtracted. This margin should be high enough to cover your business’s overheads plus a healthy profit.

the “Pricing Strategy Session” at the end of this article.

Having a clear target gross margin is like having a compass in the wilderness. Once you know where you want to head you can see clearly if you are going in the right direction and adjust. No more wasted money, time, and energy taking jobs that lose you money.

Sticking to your guns

Your large client wants a better price, what now? Don’t just take this at face value. Test, question, negotiate. Why do they think

the price is too dear? What are they comparing their quote to, apples with apples or apples with bananas? Is there more in their budget or can you adjust the brief to fit?

Show them that your price is good value and see what happens next. Some will get it and some won’t, that’s ok. The ones that don’t, fine just move on to the next opportunity. Eddie, a mentor of mine, would tell me “15 percent of customers will always go for the cheapest option no matter what”.

If another option is one dollar cheaper, they will take it even if the job is half as good. The clients you want are the other 85 percent who care about getting a quality job done right, hassle-free and are prepared to pay for it.

Remember, pricing isn’t just about numbers; it’s a mind game. The right way you present your pricing and value can make all the difference in attracting the right kind of clients and getting the work.

When my clients start telling me they are sticking to their rates, margins are increasing, and they now have plenty of good work lined up. That they don’t need every job that comes their way. I know they are on track.

Are you fishing in the right river?

Fishing is about being in the right place at the right time. The

right bait at high tide will catch way more fish than at low tide when the fish aren’t around. It’s the same with your business, are you marketing in the right places? Are you seen as the specialist or a generalist who does a bit of everything? The specialist attracts better clients and can charge more. That’s less work and more profit for you.

Being the cheapest is dangerous.

If your business is based on being the cheapest, that’s a problem. Firstly, you won’t be getting the margins you need and there will eventually be someone else out there who will do it even cheaper.

A builder client Celeb of The Decking Guys, was in the same predicament. He was working 80 hours per week making no money with one part-time worker and struggling to find work. His clients kept asking him for lower rates. I told him to put his rates up and start specialising.

Within 12 months he had a team of 11 and plenty of work. Check out his story on our testimonial

page at: www.nextleveltradie. co.nz/real-results.

More options, better odds

If you are relying on getting one quote or you can’t pay the bills, you need the job so the pressure is on you. You are in a weak position and are more likely to cave on price to get the work.

A much stronger position would be if you have five other quotes you are following up in the same week with three to six months of work already confirmed. Now you are calling the shots.

If a new client is relying on a small number of quotes and doesn’t have enough work. The first thing we do is help them get their pricing right and find better jobs. This takes the pressure off and puts them back in control of their business.

Don’t waste a good opportunity!

If things are on the quiet side and you’re still not getting the work you want, then this could be the opportunity to

consolidate and scale back a little.

Move any bad eggs on and rebuild stronger. Better to have a bit less work for a while rather than working your tail off and going backwards.

If you still want to reduce your rates to get a job short term to pay the bills then ok. But make sure that this is a short-term strategy and use it as motivation to position the business better so that you’re not caught out next time.

Sometimes in a downturn, there will be less work for a while. The key here is to keep the business solid and profitable while looking for better opportunities which, in long term, is not cutting prices.

Are you worried that your pricing isn’t right compared to others in your industry or that you need to get more profitable work?

Book our free 45 minute Pricing Strategy Session” at: www.nextleveltradie.co.nz/nextstep.

Daniel Fitzpatrick Business coach at Next Level Tradie

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Get in touch with the team today at 07 846 0678, or come visit their showroom to view the great range of water pumps and other products they have to offer at 25 Lincoln St, Frankton, Hamilton.

The Waikato Pump Specialists

From the ground up The case for increased housing density with Guy Marriage

New Zealand has an affordable housing shortage, yet developing higherdensity housing is opposed by many Kiwis. For architect, author, and lecturer Guy Marriage, the case for denser urban living is evident.

When the National Party withdrew its support from the bipartisan housing density agreement with Labour last May, many urban centres entered planning purgatory.

National then proposed its policy allowing councils to opt out of Medium Density Residential Standards (MDRS) and instead zone greenfield land for 30 years of development. The Greens said National’s plan promotes urban sprawl, damaging the environment.

Cut to December, when the Christchurch City Council took advantage of the change in government by considering a pause in housing intensification plans.

Public hearings on the Housing and Business Choice Plan Change – also known as Plan Change 14 – are currently postponed to allow more time for clarity from the Government.

The move injected uncertainty into the planning processes of city councils nationwide, uncertainty that only delays housing crisis solutions. As housing density is tracked

By Ben O’Connell

locally by councils, data is tricky to come by.

Still, political moves signal an increasing trend in medium and high-density housing, as does the nationwide increase in residential building consents.

Accepting housing density measures is inevitable, but what’s the best way to do it?

“Build more densely, build off-site, build more intelligently, build for the long-term,” says Guy Marriage.

“As an architect and co-founder of the award-winning First Light Studio, a senior lecturer at the Wellington School of Architecture, and the author of three internationally acclaimed books, his advice is priceless.

Our long-term model of one builder, one ute, one house at a time is rubbish, outdated and needs to stop.

“Prefabricate whole sections or parts of buildings, doing all the tricky work safely at ground level and then hoisting the completed object into space.”

According to a recent Forbes article, prefab builds are more common in countries like Japan, Sweden, and Germany than here. They account for around 84 percent of Swedish homes, compared to 10 percent in New Zealand.

“Our long-term model of one builder, one ute, one house at a time is rubbish, outdated and needs to stop.

“We build these suburban houses stick by stick, out of kiln-dried timber, and then let it all get wet in some inevitable storms, and then we nail on plasterboard, which really just wants to act as blotting paper, and then slap on a tiny thin cladding layer and wonder why it all starts going sour.”

It undeniably costs more to build better, but Guy says cheap housing inevitably turns nasty.

He envisions factories producing houses that roll off their production line and are taken to site, a New Zealand where we are not afraid to pay the full cost for the best possible builds. It’s about building for the long term, not for short-term financial gain.

“The problem is that we are getting cramped, low-density rather than spacious high-density,” he says.

“Filling up a section with townhouses, carparks, and nothing else just makes

everyone miserable in the long term. Instead of building townhouses on the outskirts of every town, we would be far better to rebuild our central cities, building housing of a sensible height near the middle.”

Innovative building solutions are the future, but it takes time for big ideas to be accepted. Guy wants to do a mediumdensity housing project with cross-laminated timber (CLT) on a large urban scale. “But New Zealand is still a bit too timid for that. It’ll come. I’ll wait.”

Ultimately, housing density decisions all come down to the price of land. Cheap land means suburban sprawl and maximising expensive land means denser housing.

“It is no coincidence that the best, most inventive housing in the world comes from the places where land is constrained, rather than just from places where sprawl is unlimited. Hong Kong, for instance, is far more

There is, unbelievably, still a mentality amongst some people that you have to live in the suburbs to raise your children.

Not so. Children raised in urban areas turn out just as well, if not better.

interesting than Houston.”

Many factors contribute to the current housing density issues our country faces. New Zealand has one of the lowest population densities yet is one of the world’s most urbanised nations; around 85 percent of Kiwis call a city home.

Increased density lowers the cost of each unit and the need for infrastructure. Suburban sprawl also means more time wasted in traffic.

Despite being long and thin, Aotearoa has the eighth most cars per capita, on par with the United

States, Canada, and Australia. “It is just that they all live spread out in endless, boring suburbs,” Guy says. “We have these massively wasteful cities, spread out for miles, and the infrastructure of pipes and roads and wires all costs millions.

“There is, unbelievably, still a mentality amongst some people that you have to live in the suburbs to raise your children. Not so. Children raised in urban areas turn out just as well, if not better.”

Warmth, humidity, mould, sound, and fire safety are a few

characteristics of housing density that can be just as good—if not better—in an apartment as in a suburban home.

Guy says we need to build, design, and live in our homes better: opening windows to air out spaces as one example.

Guy advocates for multigenerational buildings higher than two storeys tall, with better quality, higher-density designs, and people-friendly common outdoor spaces. The Coronavirus pandemic showed architects how vital access to outdoor space for all is, with balcony access at a minimum.

Some people argue against increased housing density because of the loss of green spaces, but Guy says building denser actually saves the outdoors from despoliation.

“One of my favourite examples is Sienna, Italy. It was at war with

Continued on page 24

Florence and other city-states for hundreds of years, and so they lived within the city wall in intense urban conditions, just as they have done for the last 500 years.”

“Meanwhile, you can look out over the edge of the city wall and down below, there is a vineyard growing grapes that feed the city.

“There’s no suburbia. It is either urban or rural, and nothing in between.” Italians today are as passionate about their lives within the city walls as their ancestors were centuries ago.

Helping people lead passionate lives is precisely why social housing is important. Without great design and an affordable price, families cannot plan their lives for the long term. People need to feel invested in their accommodation to envision

future opportunities, let alone realise them.

Particularly impactful, Guy commends Kainga Ora redevelopment projects in Auckland. Funding from the Government and Wellington City Council for a complete overhaul of city housing blocks is also promising. Only time tells how successful social housing initiatives are though.

And yet Christchurch notably lags. Guy describes the recent suburban townhouse sprawl in Ōtautahi as horrible, cramped, and scattered around the city like litter. The domino effect from the 2011 earthquakes and subsequent rebuild continues.

A side effect of housing people quickly post-quake is suburbs devoid of community and personality. Intensifying density

Filling up a section with townhouses, carparks, and nothing else just makes everyone miserable in the long term.

Instead of building townhouses on the outskirts of every town, we would be far better to rebuild our central cities, building housing of a sensible height near the middle.

would stop the “dull wave of boring housing sweeping the city,” Guy says.

“Christchurch has been rightly scared off medium density because of the terrible housing that “those” developers have created. You know who I mean.

“They only have one plan, and they rubber stamp it en masse

all over town, and it is a mess. Everything is two storeys tall, everything is the same, and only the paint colour changes. And not everyone lives in a nuclear family.

“But build taller: three, four or five floors, get a mix of household sizes in, so you have single people, grandparents, whole families, students,

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workers, retirees, children. We need the whole mix of people to get a community going.”

Guy remains hopeful about the future of housing density intensification in New Zealand. He thinks Christchurch could be the perfect cycling city with the proper infrastructure, like Hastings, which sprawls across some of the best orchard land “ in the country.

“We need far better thinking around the places that we say are okay to live in. Don’t build housing on your best horticultural soil!”

As for Guy’s advice to builders and architects, don’t try to reinvent the wheel. “Don’t swamp a city with bland twostorey housing: hire the best architects and design housing

that addresses the land first. “Plan the open spaces first, and then plan the housing to surround those open spaces. Think about the world’s best cities and then think about their parks.”

Guy’s three books demonstrate growing interest and development in the housing density space. Now a seminal textbook for students worldwide, TALL - the Design and Construction of High-Rise Architecture (Routledge, 2019) covers the rationale behind tall office building design.

His second book, Modern Apartment Design (Routledge, 2022), is focused on the growing interest in constructing tall timber buildings for residential living. Guy says that when done well, apartments are superior above all.

Done poorly, and they become hell. Think noisy, loud neighbours and cramped, poorly-designed spaces. His latest research project – Medium (EBOSS, 2022), explores creative solutions for living denser and better. Think courtyard houses like the Romans had 2000 years ago, but updated for today.

“Do you know they had apartment buildings back then?” he asks. “The Romans called them insulae, meaning islands, because they rose out of the humdrum dross of the city of Rome. There is nothing new under the sun, really.

“So, let’s repeat it, only do it better this time. Make it more earthquake-resistant, for starters!”

Guy Marriage

Safeguarding urban planning from natural hazards

Urban planning experts at the University of Waikato are developing a new model to support the translation of natural hazard science and planning of future cities.

“New Zealand has all this amazing knowledge about our natural hazards, but we need to get much better at integrating this into planning for future urban growth,” says Professor Iain White, whose project is funded through the EQC Toka Tū Ake University Research Programme, which invests $4.5 million into natural hazard research over the next three years across five New Zealand universities.

Professor White says the new agent-based model will simulate how ‘agents’ such as developers, planners, and landowners interact with each other so planners can better understand how policy changes, such as with regard to zoning, natural hazards or climate change, affect development behaviour and outcomes.

“We have really good science around climate change and how this might affect hazards, but we need to better understand how our long-term growth plans will intersect with this risk, and how the policy environment shapes developer behaviour.”

Professor White says that the new model will enable planners and modellers to look decades ahead to see how policy changes could impact urban growth patterns, which will be hugely beneficial to planners and policy makers in improving current decisions.

EQC supports the project as part of its goal to reduce the impact of natural events on home owners.

Dr Wendy Saunders, the Principal Advisor for Risk Reduction and Resilience says Professor White’s project could be a gamechanger for developers to stop building in areas that are likely to be affected by natural hazards.

“The severe weather events in the past year have shown us how much trauma and financial stress could have been avoided with better planning and making the avoidance of natural hazards, or reducing their impacts, a bigger priority.”

Dr Saunders hopes that the new model will enable planners and

developers to look further into the future to make sure new developments avoid or reduce potential hazards that can already be predicted with the available science.

We have really good science around climate change and how this might affect hazards, but we need to better understand how our long-term growth plans will intersect with this risk, and how the policy environment shapes developer behaviour.

“This new model could help avoid litigation by strengthening the evidence base for better long-term decisions.”

Professor White will be supported by a wider team at the University of Waikato, including Dr Xinyu Fu, Dr Sandi Ringham, Dr Silvia Serrao-Neumann and Dr Rob Bell. There are also two Masters’ students, Joel Bishop and Marcus Fletcher, and a PhD student who will collect the data and construct the modelling of how each stakeholder, or agent, will behave in the future.

“Like a video game, we want to create an agent-based modelling tool to predict how each stakeholder will respond when we change aspects of planning policy, incentives or legislation.

“That way we can more accurately predict how and where our cities could expand over the next 20-30 years under different policy scenarios, and make better decisions now that avoid problems and liabilities for future generations.”

Professor White says that councils need more tools to limit developments in potential high hazard areas, and often end up in litigation with developers.

Joint venture to aid future workforce

Registered Master Builders New Zealand and Builders Academy New Zealand announce joint venture to elevate vocational training in the construction sector

Registered Master Builders New Zealand and the Builders Academy New Zealand (Builders Academy), have announced the establishment of a joint venture aimed at lifting the quality and accessibility of vocational education to support a better built New Zealand.

This partnership marks a step towards developing a more robust and skilled workforce and offering more choice for aspiring carpentry apprentices.

As the sector continues to focus on building a strong, highly skilled future workforce, both organisations recognised that industry involvement is critical to successful vocational training and a thriving construction sector workforce.

Master Builders’ CE David Kelly says, “During a time when we are training more apprentices than ever before, the choice of education providers is extremely important.

“Our partnership with the Builders Academy reflects our commitment to providing more choice and greater industry involvement when it comes to training and talent development.

“Working closely with the Builders Academy is an opportunity for our members

to help shape how we train our apprentices to best suit the needs of our sector.”

The partnership is founded on a shared vision for inclusive vocational education and training.

General manager of Builders Academy, Glenn Duncan, explains its industryled approach and deep

focused on lifting the standards of the industry and optimising learning outcomes.

“From our Board down, we are focused on listening to, and serving the building and construction sector. This comes through in our approach to education that has been developed with builders in mind.

This partnership marks a step towards developing a more robust and skilled workforce and offering more choice for aspiring carpentry apprentices.

understanding of the needs of building and construction employers.

“We believe that industry involvement is pivotal to successful vocational training. This is part of our DNA –Builders Academy is laser

“As we continue to expand across New Zealand, having a partnership with Registered Master Builders is central to our growth.

We want to make sure that we are delivering in a way that suits and supports Kiwi builders.”

As Master Builders widens its support across the vocational training network, it will continue to work with other workplace learning providers.

Builders Academy is part of UP Education, the leading independent vocational training provider in New Zealand with a 30+ year track record across a range of different education sectors such as tourism, early childhood education, health and hospitality.

Now turning its focus to the building and construction industry, UP Education aims to drive an industry leading education service for carpentry apprentices.

Builders Academy is built around providing best in class service to apprentices and employers, with a minimum of six site visits per year per apprentice, a favourable apprentice-to-trainer ratio, additional pastoral care and learner support services to enhance the overall learner experience.

Builders Academy now operates nationwide with over 50 workplace educators and over 800 apprentices on its books and is encouraging more to sign on with a fee waiver for sign-ups before 30 June 2024.

Reducing the risk

The big four of risk management

In times of trouble, people often wish they had paid more attention to risk management to avoid getting into a dispute.

While there are differences between disputes in commercial as opposed to residential building the fundamentals are much the same. Paying attention to the following four items will save you a lot of grief.

Communication

Most disputes are not about complex issues of law but about much simpler matters. Relationship problems caused by poor communication is usually top of the list.

Someone has been accusatory in their language, and someone becomes defensive. Walls go up and listening goes down.

Setting some rules about how you will strive to communicate is a good start.

• Email communication can be really harmful because often hastily written emails can easily be misinterpreted. You say something in an email that would not be said on the phone.

• Business should not be done in social media. There is still a place for letters to be sent as attachments. Establish guidelines for how and when to use email and text.

• Email should not be used to convey every thought as it arises. Texts should not be used where more formal communication is needed.

• Striving to be on friendly terms does not mean ignoring the terms of a contract. Learning how to have factual or difficult conversations in a neutral manner is vitally important.

• There is a tendency in the building industry for people to either put the contract aside, or worse still not reading it at all, and just doing things in a way that seems to be fair and agreeable.

That is not acceptable, and people often undermine their own rights and obligations.

Knowledge

There have been huge changes for the building industry to adapt to in the ast 20 years, but that rate of change is going to accelerate as we start to build more energy-efficient sustainable buildings and climate change makes economic conditions more difficult.

Insufficient knowledge is behind almost all disputes. Someone does not know something that should be part of their everyday work. All builders need to have an

It is common to find that each party in the contract has a different understanding of what is the highest priority of the project: time, cost or quality.

Keep an eye on the big four and njoy happier client and less trouble.

active and ongoing learning process for their people and even for the sub contractors they engage. If a sub-contractor does not share the values of the contractor or is not doing their job properly then this can be the source of dispute.

Training must go beyond health and safety inductions and events hosted by merchants. Workers need an attitude conducive to ongoing learning and an opportunity to learn in a way that is meaningful for them.

Learning difficulties are common in the building industry so that is even more reason to create learning programs that accommodate individual needs.

Contract

Unfortunately, signing a contract then putting it in a file and not reading it, is all too common. Contracts are just a summary of what has been agreed by the parties, the rules of the game, but it is very common in dispute situations to find that both parties went off on tangents

doing things that were never agreed or responding to issues in a way inconsistent with the terms of a contract.

Do not be intimidated by a contract and if you need assistance with understanding your rights and obligations under the contract, then obtain independent advice.

To conform to the terms of the contract is not “unfriendly” but good communication skills are needed to remind people of their rights and obligations.

The main terms of the contract also need to be known to site management not just head office. Managers should write simple bullet point summaries of the main things the contractor is obliged to do under the contract and ensure this is known by site management.

Issues like when a variation or extension of time is justified, how variations are to be claimed, what are the various event timeframes prescribed, under what circumstances can work be suspended are big issues that should be top of mind.

Having escalation procedures for when someone becomes overwhelmed is very important.

Be careful that you do not default to doing what you think is fair because others may not share that view and it may be inconsistent with the contract.

Excessive hurry

Excessive hurry is almost always a part of a dispute particularly undue haste to get a project started.

It is fatal for parties to rush into starting a project without both

parties fully understanding the risk allocation and their rights and obligations.

If risks are not understood or all loaded onto one party this is a recipe for dispute. If the interests of the parties are not sufficiently aligned then time, cost or quality issues will arise. It is impossible to get the best of time, cost and quality. If quality and cost are genuinely the drivers for the project, then the project needs a realistic program. Unfortunately, irrational and unrealistic time expectations are at the heart of many disputes.

It is common to find that each party in the contract has a different understanding of what is the highest priority of the project: time, cost or quality. Keep an eye on the big four and enjoy happier clients and less trouble.

Steve Alexander has 25 years’ experience resolving building disputes. Visit: www.alexander.co.nz.

Steve Alexander Managing Director and Founder Alexander and Co. Ltd

Your ultimate trowel experts

Trowel Trade Supa Centre Hamilton have been in Hamilton now for 14 years. We are a specialist trade store where we cater to the needs of anyone that uses a trowel. In effect we are their “home base” or “one stop shop”.

The Trowel Trade brand is a growing brand within NZ’s Building Supply industry with a chain of branches throughout the North and South islands under franchise.

Our Trowel Trades stores are more specialised and carry product ranges that directly service plasterers, concreters, bricklayers, block layers... really, anyone using a trowel. This makes Trowel

Trades the go-to store for any tradesperson using trowels in their local areas, ensuring and guaranteeing products and supplies of good quality through the Koncrete Konnect suppliers’ network.

Trowel Trades is a wellrespected brand nationally and is associated with high quality tools and products either locally made in New Zealand or imported overseas

like the range of Marshalltown products. So, you know you can depend on us being local business that we are right there on your doorstep to help.

We have experienced owners across the franchises that search and source new innovative product internationally, so that we can keep our product offer as up to date as possible. With strong relationships with our suppliers, we can offer you great products and good prices (big brands, best value).

From brick and block layers, concreters, landscapers, plasterers, tilers, roofers, civil to specialist concrete repair, we pride ourselves heavily on not only our product offer, but

also the knowledge that is the backbone of our advice we can offer. From compounds to trowels or tools to wheelbarrows and machinery – we have it all.

Come and see the team, we are here for you!

We

We

Kiwis’ priorities

for infrastructure investment shifts

Kiwis’ priorities for infrastructure investment shifts

Less than a third (29 percent) of New Zealanders are satisfied with our national infrastructure, with flood defences receiving the lowest quality rating (18 percent) among different types of infrastructure and identified as the number one investment priority in the country.

A 31-country Ipsos Global Advisor survey found that New Zealanders are significantly less satisfied with the country’s national infrastructure compared to others around the world (global country average of 38 percent). This level of satisfaction is also a significant decrease from 2019 (46 percent).

The survey – carried out in 31 countries, by Ipsos in collaboration with the Global Infrastructure Investor Association – includes a sample of 1,004 New Zealanders. The survey came after a gap of nearly two years in the Global Infrastructure Index series, and almost three years since a New Zealand report was last published in Nov 2019. Fieldwork was conducted in May-June 2023.

A 31-country Ipsos Global Advisor survey found that New Zealanders are significantly less satisfied with the country’s national infrastructure compared to others around the world.

The majority of New Zealanders (61 percent) believe that the country is not doing enough to meet its infrastructure needs. And in addition to flood defences (57 percent), new housing supply (51 percent) was also identified as the highest priority areas for investment.

Our view of the quality of many of our infrastructure has decreased significantly since 2019. These include flood defences (18 percent rated as very / fairly good), rail infrastructure (35 percent), local road network (38 percent), motorway / major road network (46 percent), water supply and sewerage (57 percent) and airports (75 percent).

However, New Zealanders’ ratings of the quality of our renewable energy infrastructure and electric vehicle charging infrastructure are higher than the global country average.

Like others around world, only a minority of New Zealanders (30 percent) support increased public spending to improve infrastructure, while the majority is of the view that there is already too much public spending, and that taxes and government borrowing should not be increased any more.

Notably, however, New Zealanders have a more longterm outlook than the global country average – we are significantly more likely to agree that higher priority should be given to improving infrastructure in the long-term than minimising the cost to consumers and taxpayers in the short-term (45 percent, cf. 37 percent global country average).

While New Zealanders are more likely to prioritise environmental impact (41 percent) over economic impact (35 percent) in making decisions about how to improve infrastructure, the

contrast between the two is lower than the global country average (47 percent environmental, 29 percent economic).

Ipsos New Zealand managing director, Carin Hercock, says “The impact of extreme climate change related weather events has seen a significant increase in New Zealanders who want infrastructure investment in the directly related area of flood defenses and directly impacted areas such as roading however, investment in infrastructure that will help reduce carbon emissions over the long term, such as sustainable energy sources and cycleways are further down the list”.

Amanda Dudding, Research Director, Public Affairs, Ipsos New Zealand, added that “The recent extreme weather events have made New Zealanders look at their national infrastructure in a different light. It has highlighted the level of quality of our flood defences and made New Zealanders realise the need to prioritise them.”

Meet Josh

Josh,

Throughout his

Josh

If

Komatsu, Retrofitting for the future

Komatsu’s PC138 series of excavators, boosted by the company’s Retrofit Kit, are ushering in a new era of machine technology.

The Retrofit Kit (RFK) equips existing machinery with advanced ICT features, including 3D machine guidance, payload management, and 3D construction data collection.

With the RFK, conventional machinery can seamlessly transition into the realm of digital construction, enabling precise and efficient execution of tasks. This advancement is particularly exemplified by the RFK’s 3D machine guidance feature, which allows operators to dig accurately according to engineered design plans. Real-time notifications within the cabin ensure operators maintain alignment with design drawings.

Expanding the capabilities of machines like the PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 excavators, the RFK utilises highperformance sensors and antennas to accurately display the bucket’s position against design information. Operators can effortlessly adjust settings, record data, and switch between project files and attachments, enhancing versatility and productivity.

Moreover, the RFK facilitates seamless integration with Komatsu’s Smart Construction dashboard, streamlining data reporting and analysis. Operators can also create customised designs directly on the in-cab display, enhancing user experience and efficiency.

The Retrofit Kit (RFK) equips existing machinery with advanced ICT features, including 3D machine guidance, payload management, and 3D construction data collection.

In the event of technical support needs, Komatsu’s dedicated team is readily available to assist, ensuring optimal utilisation of the RFK’s capabilities. Another notable feature is the payload management system, which enhances safety and productivity by accurately measuring material weight and preventing truck overloading. Overall, Komatsu’s Retrofit

Kit represents a significant advancement in construction machinery technology, enhancing efficiency, productivity, and safety on job sites.

To find out more visit www.komatsu.co.nz

Komatsu’s Retrofit Kit can enable machines such as the PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 excavators to utilise 3D machine guidance, as well as 3D construction data collection.

Both the PC138US-11 and PC138USLC-11 excavators can be fitted out with the latest in Komatsu’s technological offerings.

Navigating your finances - tips from a veteran tradie

April marked 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 GSTknown 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.

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

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.

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.

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

Prioritise regular invoicing

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.

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.

Dan Pollard Founder, Fergus

Transforming visions into reality

McKenzie Drainage and Earthworks Ltd, your local earthworks specialists, are here to transform your project from concept to completion with precision and excellence.

In 2018, Grant and Jamie McKenzie went into partnership with Ross and Leigh Pevreal to establish what is now known as McKenzie Drainage and Earthworks.

Ever since then and being based in Otorohanga, we have quickly become the go-to experts in earthworks and landscaping across Waikato and King Country areas.

As a small business, we pride ourselves on providing a range

of services to farmers, property owners and anyone else who has a vision for a project. With our wide range of machines, we are confident we can take on any project – big or small.

Our services span from general earthworks and farm maintenance to creative landscaping and comprehensive site development. We take immense pride in our team of machine operators, who bring your vision to life with the aid

of the latest GPS technology, ensuring every detail is perfect. Our fleet is equipped with machinery tailored for every need – from 13T excavator with GPS for precision work to skid steer with laser blade for flawless finishes. We also have a range of attachments, such as augers, a trencher, and a rock breaker to ensure we have the right tool for every job.

We believe in delivering not just results but also peace of mind. Our commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction sets us apart, making us the preferred choice for projects of any size. Whether you’re planning a new development, requiring farm

maintenance, or dreaming up a landscape transformation. McKenzie Drainage and Earthworks Ltd is ready to bring your project to life with expertise and efficiency.

Discover the difference that professional and precise earthworks can make to your project. Contact us today to start your journey to successful completion with McKenzie Drainage and Earthworks Ltd, where your vision meets our expertise.

Staying on track

Setting goals is all about heading into the future on the right track.

Yes, when you reached the end of 2023, you could look back and be proud of all you accomplished. This moment of proud reflection, needs to be just that – a moment –before turning your attention to what lies ahead.

According to Health Navigator New Zealand, having a goal helps motivate you and gives you direction in general everyday life.

“You may have one goal or several and they may be short or long-term. Whatever you’re aiming to achieve, it’s never too late to start.”

They also suggest research shows setting goals and working towards them can contribute to your overall happiness.

There are many different strategies to set goals. Start with deciding what your goals are by doing a self-

Getting your head around goals

There are many different strategies to set goals. Start with deciding what your goals are by doing a self-journaling session or creating a vision board.

Writing down your goals and developing a plan on how you will achieve them is an important part of the goal setting process.

journaling session or creating a vision board.

Writing down your goals and developing a plan on how you will achieve them is an important part of the goal setting process.

Health Navigator New Zealand says, “Writing your goals down helps clarify what you want to achieve and increases your chances of sticking to them”. They also suggest that, “You may encounter setbacks on your journey towards achieving your goals. The key is to not give up.

“If you hit a roadblock or something isn’t working, you can always try a different

approach or re-adjust some of the steps [if needed] in order to achieve your goal.”

SMART goals

Breaking down your goals into measurable stages will help you feel as if you can achieve them in a timely manner. Using the acronym SMART is one way to help stay on track. Goals which are achievable and realistic means you are more-likely to be self-motivated to strive for achievement throughout the year.

SMART goals are:

Specific - Make sure your goals are specific enough so

you know exactly what you are working towards. Breaking this down can also help with feeling overwhelmed when wanting to set your mind to a task.

Measurable - Ensuring you have a plan on how you can measure your goals is important. Facing the dreaded feeling of not moving forward can be disheartening. Measuring your goals in steps means the outcome will feel possible.

Achievable - This is not to say you can’t ‘reach for the stars’ with your goals, but ask yourself if they are achievable within your current circumstances. What changes do you need to implement in your day-to-day life to ensure you stay on track?

Realistic - Similar to Achievable here! You could travel but how much do you need to save? Want to eat healthier? You might need to buy less dinners out. Be realistic with yourself and know goals require consistent and realistic effort.

Timely - Putting a timeframe on your goals can help motivate

you. If goals are set too far in the future, they may feel impossible to complete. Or, if you don’t allow yourself enough time you may feel unaccomplished. Finding the right balance with time and goal setting is key here.

Reviewing goals periodically means you keep revisiting and reflecting on your progress. Keep on track with your goals by being honest with yourself about what stage you’re at throughout the year.

All of the SMART goal strategies work together to ensure you’re well on your way to accomplishing your goals and dreams.

Be realistic with yourself about how you will work towards them and you’ll be one step

This place a high level of importance on doing what we find to be intrinsically motivating or working from what is inherently rewarding.

closer to them coming true before you know it.

Self-determination

theory -

Health Navigator New Zealand says, “Setting goals that draw on personal motivations produces greater confidence in our ability to change and greater sense of ownership over the process”.

Personalising your goals to suit your personal motivations is one way to ensure you pick the right goals and they ‘stick’.

“The importance of ownership for personal motivation is captured nicely in what is known as the self-determination theory of motivation.

“This place a high level of importance on doing what we find to be intrinsically motivating or working from what is inherently rewarding.”

Selecting goals which come from a place of personal value over external validation will also

mean achieving your goal will feel that much more satisfying.

Throughout the year make sure to look after all aspects of your hauora wellbeing including mental and physical health.

Goal setting should be a positive experience where you can take time to understand what you envision your year to look like. Setting goals in the New Year can be daunting and exciting. Looking ahead into the future can feel impossible but with small, consistent steps, you will be able to see change in your life.

We started as a small family business in the early 1970s in Huntly, with Jon taking over the reins of the family business in the late 1980s, then traded as Beddis Electrical Ltd (in the 1990s and early 2000s).

We were invited to join the Laser Franchise in 2004 and for 10 years we traded as Laser Electrical Huntly, up until March 2014. As of April 1st, 2014 (Jon & Sharon Beddis and Clint & Nardia Robinson)

were excited to announce the launch of Rivertown Electrical.

In July 2019, Clint and Nardia Robinson had taken over, and to this day are continuing to provide the great service and friendly faces you have come to expect from Rivertown Electrical Ltd.

We are a small/medium sized electrical contracting company based in Huntly, with friendly staff that are always willing to go the extra mile.

Specialists in electrical installation, service, and maintenance on a wide range of domestic, commercial, rural/agricultural and industrial sites.

Ranging from oven installations to farm breakdowns and everything in between:

• Rewiring of buildings

• Lighting replacements or upgrades

• Upgrades to switchboards

• Hot water cylinder repairs

• Oven repairs or installation

• Extract fan installations

• Mains cabling upgrades and installations

• Builder’s temporary supplies

• New electrical connections

• Water pump issues

• Cow shed builds, retrofits and breakdowns: including but not limited to - platform, backing gate or water supply problems

• Poultry farm builds, retrofits or maintenance: including but not limited to – feedline issues, auger breakdowns or fan/motor replacements

• Industrial machine breakdown service and maintenance.

We strive to give the best advice and service available in the most cost-effective way for our clients.

With over 20 years’ experience and local knowledge, we are a team you can count on to deliver.

Rain, hail, or shine - We are available 24 hours a day/365 days a year with our afterhours breakdown emergency service only a phone call away.

Leading the way in real-world safety training

In today’s fast paced industrial landscape, the importance of safety cannot be overstated.

At Industry Training Works Ltd (ITW), we pride ourselves on delivering tailored training solutions that not only meet regulatory standards but also ensure the real-world safety of all participants.

Expert trainers across key safety areas

At ITW, we are proud to have a team of expert trainers who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to our courses. Our Trainers specialise in:

• Health & safety consultancy: Hazardous substances, emergency response plans, operational

checks, audits, SOP development, permit to work - our consultant’s are subject matter experts and can assist in regulatory controls and procedures

• Confined space training: Understanding and navigating confined spaces safely

• Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP): Mastering the use of MEWPs with a focus on safety and operational efficiency

• First aid: Providing essential first aid training for the workplace that could save lives in emergency situations

• Permit to work: Training on

the critical permit to work systems to ensure safe work practices

• Fire extinguisher: Teaching the proper use and handling of fire extinguishers to effectively combat small fires and prevent escalation

• Breathing apparatus: Ensuring proper use and maintenance of breathing apparatus in hazardous environments

• Height safety training: Equipping workers with the skills and knowledge to safely work at heights, including the use of fall protection systems and rescue procedures.

New course: forklift operations training

We are excited to announce the

introduction of our new forklift operations training courses. These courses are designed to cover all aspects of forklift operation, ensuring participants are well-prepared to operate forklifts safely and efficiently. Courses start in July 2024.

Why choose ITW?

Choosing Industry Training Works Ltd for your training needs means choosing quality, expertise, and a commitment to safety.

For more information about our courses and how to enrol, visit our website www.itw.org.nz or contact us today on 0800 489 5669.

AI in project management

By Ben O’Connell

Artificial intelligence is our new reality. AI promises to revolutionise pretty much every aspect of our lives, and project management is no exception.

AI is changing the future of work, and with that comes concerns around automation and job losses, and equal excitement around efficiency and the technology’s potential. Similarly, the role of a project manager is increasingly complex.

It’s important to note that AI will enhance and not replace skilled trades. Time is of the essence in trades and processes such as selfcorrection, reasoning, and data-based decision-making are where AI can help.

AI can transform project management by automating workflows, streamlining processes, and providing accurate information. It can eliminate repetitive tasks and free up project managers to focus on other important aspects of their jobs.

Let’s make it clear: AI is not going to solve everything. There are countless soft skills AI cannot replicate. Project managers will still need strong communication, negotiation, leadership, and critical thinking skills to manage teams, navigate challenges, and build strong client relationships.

It’s important to note that AI will enhance and not replace skilled trades. Time is of the essence in trades and processes such as selfcorrection, reasoning, and data-based decision-making are where AI can help.

Further issues around AI include the costs of implementing these processes and a need for businesses to invest in data collection and management, as most software relies on clear and accurate data to work well. Successfully integrating AI also takes buy-in from all stakeholders; maintaining a healthy level of scepticism is totally understandable.

While it could lead to some job losses in the trades, AI is also likely to create new opportunities. Tradies with strong AI skills could be in high demand to develop and implement these tools for the industry. Researching how AI can help your unique needs will truly grasp its potential for you. But what areas of project management are set to be disrupted in the future?

Scheduling

AI-powered tools can evaluate factors like travel time, worker availability, and skillsets to optimise job assignments and routes. This results in increased efficiency and reduced wasted time, so happier customers. Deputy is a good example, a shift scheduling software that provides cloud-based workforce management. GeoOp is a similar job management software for tradies.

Client relationships

AI can analyse customer data and interactions to personalise services, predict customer needs, and improve the overall customer experience. This can strengthen customer relationships and increase customer loyalty. Pipedrive is one tool that efficiently manages leads and deals, and Monday, Zendesk, and Capsule are others.

Finances

AI can be applied in financial management for better budgeting and forecasting. AI tools can identify areas for cost reduction, detect anomalies in financial transactions, and reduce the risk of fraud. This can lead to significant financial savings and improved business stability. Financial AI tools are common today; you’ve probably already heard of Xero and MYOB.

Marketing

AI can be leveraged to optimise your website for search engines, automate social media posts, and tailor marketing strategies based on online customer behaviour. This can increase website traffic, improve brand awareness, and generate more leads and sales. Google Analytics and Hootsuite are two common platforms.

MIKE STENT DECORATORS

Rick Johnson, from LINK Business Brokers, boasts an impressive history of business sales in the Civil Construction sector. Known for his experience and expertise, Rick has proven he can navigate the intricate challenges in the business sales process to secure optimal outcomes. His exceptional communication, unwavering transparency, and absolute professionalism are widely acknowledged from his previous clients .

Clients benefit from his tailored approach, insider knowledge, and extensive network of contacts. Operating from the Hamilton/Waikato office, Rick’s influence and contacts extends across the broader region and into Taranaki, Hawkes Bay and Manawatu. Rick has successfully facilitated the sale of numerous Civil Construction companies and specialises in brokering small to medium-sized businesses valued between $500k-$10million.

Rick proudly holds the distinction of being LINK’s top broker in the Waikato region and ranks among the elite 5% of LINK brokers globally. His achievements have been recognised with a collection of awards and accolades.

For those seeking to buy or sell a business in the Civil Construction industry, there’s no broker better for the job than Rick Johnson.

Your upper North Island fire specialists

Trusted commercial fire protection specialists with decades of experience, SimplyFire offers the greater upper North Island, including Hamilton, Rotorua and Auckland, with expert fire protection and compliance services.

SimplyFire Ltd undertakes the installation of Passive Fire Protection and Electronic Fire Alarm Systems, and provides Fire Fighting Equipment.

They offer alarm system tests on a monthly basis, giving customers peace of mind while ensuring that all equipment complies with a building’s warrant of fitness.

All of the SimplyFire staff are supplier trained, with a focus on understanding the products and any changes regarding legislation and building codes.

They have IQP (independently qualified person) status with local authorities which inspect your fire protection systems for legal compliance.

Passive fire protection

Make SimplyFire your company of choice for Passive Fire Protection services in the Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.

Passive Fire Protection is the installation of approved products for sealing any penetrations through fire cells which compromise the

integrity or fire rating of a wall or floor. These items generally include pipework, electrical cabling, ducting etc.

By attempting to contain a fire at its source, Passive Fire Protection can reduce the risk and damage to both people and properties. SimplyFire can carry out a passive fire building survey of your site and advise on the right products to protect your premises.

Electronic fire alarms

Most commercial and industrial premises have an evacuation system in place. These systems can range from a strategically placed manual horn to a fully sprinklered and alarmed automatic fire alarm system.

SimplyFire installs, maintains and tests electronic fire

alarm systems, ensuring that people and property are safe in an emergency.

Fire fighting equipment

SimplyFire can provide and install fire fighting equipment in your commercial and industrial premises, including CO2 fire extinguisher systems and fire blankets.

All products are certified by SAI Global or Global Mark. When you see the Standards mark, you know that the products have met the rigorous requirements of New Zealand and international quality and safety standards.

Contact the team at 021 195 8535 or via email at admin@simplyfire.co.nz.

• The country’s largest independent safety-netting specialist.

• Our fall through protection system has been independently tested and certified by Massey University.

• Our system ensures that as a PCBU, you have taken all reasonably practicable steps to ensure the safety of your workforce.

• Bespoke debris and asbestos containment, fall protection system for uninterrupted work processes during industrial property re-roofing.

• A nationwide network of local installers providing exceptional customer-focused fall arrest solutions.

SEP innovative product design and fabrication

Located in Rukuhia next to Hamilton Airport, SEP design and manufacture quality products from sheet metal and stainlesssteel wire including components, accessories, and complete machines for industries such as Food and Dairy, Power Utilities, and the Health sector.

Integrating our own innovative designs many of our products greatly improve efficiency, safety, and connectivity. We have the capacity to produce custom solutions and are ideally set up to fabricate either short or longproduction runs, one-offs, or prototypes.

Our workshop is fully equipped with a 3 metre wide Brake Press,

2.4 metre Guillotine, Water Jet Cutter allowing intricate cutting and finishing to within 0.1mm, Spot Welders, Stud Welders, and Tig & Mig Welders.

Our onsite Electricians allow SEP staff to install custom fit-outs for power utility companies, create custom enclosed Control Panels and Isolators meeting all Hygiene standards, and more. Installing mainly ABB componentry with their reputation for quality, reliable and durable products, SEP is also a supplier of ABB products New Zealand-wide.

With clear communications, a cando attitude, transparent quoting, and real service, SEP is a quiet achiever. To talk through your upcoming projects, call Aub Hart Phone 0274 778 445 or visit our website at www.sep.co.nz

Real estate you can trust

Having recently celebrated 50 years, Bayleys Real Estate understand that property is one of the most competitive markets in new Zealand.

That is why Bayleys continues to work to rise above the competition and pride themselves on being better and doing thier best to continue building on their hard-earned reputation every day.

Fostering a team culture of togetherness and connectedness, Bayleys was started up in 1973 and consdiers themselves a family business at heart and see their customers as part of their family. With Bayley’s being located in numerous

towns across New Zealand, constantly connecting with locals and actively involved and immersed in their communities, it is not wonder Bayleys is a lot of kiwis go-to.

Glenda combines her diverse background with unparalleled dedication to deliver outstanding results.

Being New Zealand’s largest full-service real estate brokeage, Bayleys works across residential, commerical, rural and business sales, property management and valuations, leasing, renting and more.

Glenda O’Sullivan, based in the Matmata office in Waikato, is a seasoned real estate professional. Specialising in lifestyle and residential sales and marketing, Glenda combines her diverse background with unparalleled dedication to deliver outstanding results.

Glenda was born and raised in South Africa and moved to Matamata in 1997. She has worked and excelled in several different professions, in the

role of legal secretary doing conveyancing work, acting as registrar in the Labor court in South Africa, and then practising as an optician for 20 years. In 2006, Glenda decided to change careers, and she qualified as a real estate agent.

Emphasising client service and successful outcomes, Glenda O’Sullivan is the partner you need for your property journey in the Hinera Valley area and beyond. Learn more about how Glenda can assist you by getting in touch today glenda.osullivan@bayleys.co.nz

When the banter goes too far

The next steps after onsite bullying and harassment

By Ben O’Connell

Working in trades isn’t for the faint of heart. Banter is typical and part of the job. But what happens when it goes too far?

In some workplaces, jokes are a way for people to communicate and have fun. Kiwis often bond with sarcasm.

But all tradespeople should be treated with dignity on the job. Everyone has the right to a safe and respectful work environment.

And it can go both ways. It should go without saying that workers must be respectful to clients.

Recently, a plasterer admitted he went too far after calling his client a con man and child molester because the client wouldn’t pay $16,000 for the work completed.

Written contracts are crucial in settling any dispute, and ensuring licences are up to date is also key.

But for those subject to abuse, there are steps to take when things get out of hand.

Firstly, record every instance where an insult or inappropriate behaviour occurs. This includes the date, time, who was involved, what was said or done, and any witnesses.

This documentation can serve as evidence if a formal complaint needs to be made.

It can be easier said than done, but a direct conversation might be the best action if the person making the insults is a colleague.

Calmly and professionally explain how their behaviour affects you and ask them to stop.

If the insults are severe or frequent, and the employer fails to take action, it may be necessary to seek legal advice.

A lawyer can guide whether there are grounds for a complaint or legal action.

If the insults continue or escalate, reporting the incident is essential. Supervisors should be able to guide how to handle the situation and may be able to intervene to stop the behaviour.

Don’t hesitate to contact your support network for advice and emotional support. This could be a union representative, a trusted colleague, a mental health professional, Employment New Zealand, and so on.

If the insults are severe or frequent, and the employer fails to take action, it may

be necessary to seek legal advice. A lawyer can guide whether there are grounds for a complaint or legal action.

There can be a real hardenup mentality when faced with abuse, but times are changing. It doesn’t have to be this way.

Don’t suffer in silence if you’re facing insults or inappropriate behaviour at work. Take action to protect your well-being and dignity.

DIODE ELECTRICAL SERVICES LTD

Do you you need sound and lighting in the Whitianga area? Have you got an electrical problem? We can help!

PA SYSTEM | SPEAKERS | LIGHTING

OUR SERVICES

• Residential, Commercial and Industrial Electrical Services

• Small or Large Jobs Welcomed

• Renovations or Full House Electrical Fit Outs

• Alternative Energy (Solar) and Off Grid Solar

• Freeview Installations and Tv Set Up

• Motorhome and Caravan Electrical

• Hot Water Cylinders

• Electrical Maintenance for the Bach or Holiday Home

• Testing and Tagging Leads, Health and Safety Testing for Work Places

• All Other Electrical Works As Requested!

WorkandIncomeApproved GoldCarddiscountratesmayapply.

Contact our team for your special event.

Damon Christensen 027 355 1650

Your go-to for all things real estate between Horotiu and Huntly

Nestled 20 kilometres northwest of Hamilton, in the heart of Ngaruawahia, Sheryl Hamilton represents dedication and proficiency in the real estate domain.

As a licensed salesperson at LJ Hooker Ngaruawahia, Sheryl’s commitment to her clients and the community is unparalleled.

Sheryl Hamilton’s philosophy of ‘helping others to help themselves’ encapsulates the essence of her role in real estate. With an impressive tenure exceeding 30 years in the Waikato, Sheryl harnesses her local knowledge to navigate the nuanced real estate landscape. Her professionalism,

integrity and lively spirit are not only infectious but also integral to her approach, ensuring that her clients’ property aspirations are met.

Away from her professional pursuits, Sheryl finds solace in nature. Her passion for hiking has led her to conquer trails such as Kaimais in the Bay of Plenty, Hadrains Wall in the north of England, and Cotswolds Way in Central England. Additionally, Sheryl’s

Your North Waikato Real Estate

With 17 years of industry experience working in the local market, you can trust Sheryl will guide you through buying or selling process with skill and professionalism.

“Sheryl’s honesty, ease of communication and her help with any queries made the buying process eas

selling journey today

Sheryl Hamilton

027 270 2202

sherylhamilton@ljh.nz

dedication to community service is evident in her over two decades of coaching netball, including roles with Hamilton representative teams. Despite her numerous personal and professional accomplishments, Sheryl considers raising her three children and enjoying he role as a grandmother her most cherished achievement.

Emphasising the critical role of communication in the real estate process, Sheryl commits to providing exemplary feedback and advice, ensuring that every client’s journey is both informed and seamless. For those in pursuit of unparalleled service and expertise in real estate, Sheryl Hamilton offers

a rare blend of professional intelligence and personal dedication. Her distinguished career at LJ Hooker Ngaruawahia is a testament to her unwavering commitment to achieving and surpassing the property goals of her clients.

To experience the best real estate service and embark on your property journey with Sheryl Hamilton at your side, contact her directly at 027 270 2202 or visit her webpage at agent.ljhooker.co.nz/sherylhamilton-9979191. With Sheryl, you’re not just making a real estate decision; you’re setting the foundation for your future.

LET US MAINTAIN YOUR HOME

Passion for high quality work

Glamacote 2021 Ltd is a well-established company and has been offering exterior plastering and painting services since 1984.

paint and coatings on the

Company Director Jason Bryant grew up in the exterior plastering world because of his father and shares the same passion for producing high quality work like his dad did. He is knowledgeable and passionate about maintaining homes and with his proactive team can help you with your textured cladding and coating systems or any paint and coatings on both the inside and outside of your building.

homes and existing homes. The experienced exterior team is well known for doing high class work in and around the Waikato area and with the purchase of this painting company Glamacote 2021 ltd plan to showcase what they can also do to Inside of homes

No job is too big or too small for the team! They can do various services like full inspection, water blasting, repair, repainting, full supply, and consultancy. The company believes they operate an exceptional system and always works hard to satisfy customers.

Mould and dirt will eat away at the exterior protective coatings and sealants. A small investment in regular maintenance programme could save you a great deal of heartache and expense in the future.

At the beginning of 2023 the company turned over a new leaf and purchased the services of a painting company and its staff. Glamacote 2021 ltd can now offer a full interior/ exterior painting and maintenance service for new

Glamacote 2021 Ltd is one of New Zealand’s largest STO plaster system applicators and services the entire Waikato region. The team shares over 50 years of experience as applicators, so you can be rest assured you’re in the right hands.

Aggregate landscape supplies

As a leading provider of high-quality aggregates, decorative stones, barks, mulches and compost, Aggregate Landscape Supplies offer an extensive range of landscaping and trade materials.

Aggregate Landscape Supplies source their products from the best suppliers all around the country, bringing it here to the Waikato to make it easy for you to get your job done.

A family-owned company ALS opened in 2020. Robbie – owner has spent his life working in the aggregate industry. Owning a fleet of large trucks working on civil construction, farm race-ways and roading.

Aggregate Landscape Supplies can supply and deliver

aggregates on any scale, from half a cubic meter to multiple truck and trailer unit loads.

ALS make their own blend of Builders Mix on site. It is a tried-and-true favourite by local Tradies who use it. In store they have cement, concrete, FastSet and a range of concreting products including the Koncrete Konnect range.

Stockist of multiple sizes of drainage metals, pit sand and concrete sand they have plumbers and drainlayers sorted too.

ALS are stockist of JakMat Dairy. Ideal for high pressure animal traffic areas JakMat stabilises race pressure points and creates a smooth transition zone from race to concrete. JakMat Dairy is great for preserving the lifetime of your raceways while reducing animal lameness.

Aggregate Landscape Supplies have a range of decorative metals, barks and mulch for landscaping jobs as well as a new range

of native plants. They cater to everyone from domestic gardeners to big council jobs and new subdivisions.

With courtesy trailers available you can tackle the small jobs with ease too.

To find out more about Aggregate Landscape Supplies or to discuss your upcoming job give the team a call on 07 210 0983 or email robbie@alsyard.co.nz

YOUR LOCAL SUPPLIERS OF ALL YOUR TRADE AND PERSONAL AGGREGATE AND LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS.

• DR AINAGE METALS • CRUSH ER DUST

• G AP 20 • G AP 40 • BUILD ERS MIX • PIT SAND • CONCRETE SAND

• SCREENED TOPSOIL • G ARDEN MIX • COMPOST

WHITE CHIP

• RIVERSTONES

• NU GGET BARKS

• BL ACK MULCH

• NATURAL COLOURED MULCH

• FOREST FLOOR MULCH

• CONCRETE & CEMENT

• G ARDENING TOOLS

• S EEDS & SEEDLINGS

• NATIVES

• WEED & PEST CONTROL PRODUCTS

Balancing acts

How technology enables and restricts employees

The New Zealand Productivity Commission (Te Kōmihana Whai Hua o Aotearoa) advises the Government on the best ways employees can be productive to support wellbeing and how technology benefits, but also disbenefits, the workplace.

The commission is an independent Crown Entity that started in 2011 after the New Zealand Productivity Commission Act was passed in 2010.

The commission conducts inquiries on topics the Government suggests, investigates how the topic can improve productivity over time, and lets the Government know the underlying issues involved.

The Government requested the commission to conduct an inquiry regarding technological change, disruption, and the future of work.

The commission wrote a final report with recommendations on how to improve productivity and support people’s wellbeing by understanding the benefits and disadvantages of technology in the workplace.

The benefits:

• Technology creates many jobs for people, rather than replaces jobs

• There isn’t much sign of an emerging technological disruption

• Aotearoa needs more advanced technology, as it benefits the economy and workplace productivity

• Aotearoa is well-placed for faster technology adoption in some areas - Aotearoa’s policy settings generally support

The Government requested the commission to conduct an inquiry regarding technological change, disruption, and the future of work.

openness to ideas, goods, services, investment and skills.

The disadvantages:

• Important skill levels in schools are decreasing

• Due to the housing crisis it’s hard for some workers to move to better jobs

• Businesses in general lack dynamism compared to other countries

• Aotearoa should build on its strengths and address its weaknesses:

• Policy changes could be created to prepare Kiwi individuals for the future of work, making training more flexible and accessible

• Improve and increase the amount of careers advice and employment support that’s available

• Address the school system performance

• Update employment law to make people more aware of how technology is changing some workplaces and make it easier for employers (like contractors) to gain benefits like insurance and training opportunities.

Read more about what the commission found when completing its inquiry here: www.productivity.govt.nz/ inquiries/technology-and-thefuture-of-work.

To conclude - technology matters for productivity and wellbeing, but also impacts the future of work.

Firstly, the country is flexible, very skilled, and has a lot of support for people who can provide goods, services, data, ideas, technologies, and investments.

However, Aotearoa also has its disadvantages that limit people’s ability to adopt technology in the future and/or make it harder for some people to adapt to the technological changes.

For instance, there’s a poorer socio-economic disadvantage for minorities such as Māori and Pasifika communities, and Aotearoa (by international standards) seems less enthusiastic about emerging technologies impacting Aotearoa’s social and economic aspects.

A link to the final report can be found here: www. productivity.govt.nz/assets/ Documents/223e187413/At-aglance_Technological-changeand-future-of-work.pdf

Moving the earth

Vision Complete Earthworks Ltd is dedicated to delivering exceptional services to the civil construction industry across the Waikato and its surrounding areas.

Our consistent growth stems from our unwavering commitment to delivering highquality work within set timelines and budgets, maintaining a superior standard throughout.

As a company, we have evolved to address various needs within the construction sector, including wastewater, stormwater management, civil construction services in NZ such as road construction, subdivision development, excavation, and earthmoving, among others.

Our enduring goal is to meet and exceed the dynamic demands of our clients in this challenging industry. We strive to achieve results that not only fulfill but surpass customer expectations, ensuring their utmost satisfaction.

At VCE, we firmly believe that our dedication to quality is the cornerstone of our success, benefiting both our company and our clients’ endeavors. Moreover, we are deeply committed to fostering strong relationships not only with our clients but also within the communities we serve. Through active involvement and support, including investments in local sports clubs, schools, and initiatives aiding individuals with special needs, we aim to contribute positively to the welfare of our community.

Minimising landslide slip-ups

New guidance and mapping measures improve resilience

In January, GNS Science released new land-use planning guidance to manage and reduce the risks of landslides.

Considering the dangers of land use early in the planning and decision-making processes avoids costly and potentially dangerous new developments that could pose risks to people, property, and the planet down the line.

Guidance co-author and GNS Engineering Geologist Dr Saskia de Vilder said that, on average,

By Ben O’Connell

landslides cost Aotearoa New Zealand $250 million yearly and have resulted in more fatalities than earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis combined.

Landslide Planning Guidance: Reducing Landslide Risk through Land-Use Planning has been developed to support a risk-based approach to landuse planning that considers changing weather patterns as well as current risk assessment, management and mitigation practices.

At a minimum, the Guidance recommends councils develop a landslide susceptibility map

Redcliffs 2011 earthquake damage.

to better inform important decisions that determine where and how we live.

The Landslide Planning Guidance updates previous guidance released more than 15 years ago. It emphasises the need to consider climatechange scenarios likely to exacerbate landslide hazards due to changing weather patterns.

Speaking of mapping, this new landslide guidance coincides with recent research on landslides from the University of Canterbury. Canterbury researchers and students mapped 140,000 landslides triggered by Cyclone Gabrielle to create models for future weather events.

New Zealand now boasts one of the largest single-event inventories of landslides globally. Senior Lecturer and lead researcher Dr Tom Robinson was surprised at the sheer number of landslides they found.

New Zealand now boasts one of the largest single-event inventories of landslides globally. Senior Lecturer and lead researcher Dr Tom Robinson was surprised at the sheer number of landslides they found, “in the Esk Valley alone, in just one 12km square area, you’ve got over 2000 landslides.”

Mapping and guidance measures both lead to improved future resilience. “Landslides

are difficult to forecast and predict; the only way you can do it is by looking at where they’ve occurred in the past,” Dr Robinson says.

“Mapping tells us the conditions that triggered them in the past: the type of slopes, what is on the land, has rainfall caused it and if so, how intense was the rainfall, was it an earthquake, how much shaking was there –all critical information telling us how landslides occur.

“So, when we have a future event, particularly rainfall, we could say this is where we think a landslide is most likely to occur, the predicted trajectory, what’s in its path, and therefore do we need to shut roads, do we need to evacuate people?” says Dr Robinson.

The team uses aerial imagery with up to 30cm high resolution, imagery so powerful you could spot a laptop on the ground for mapping.

“We’ve mapped over 140,000 landsides, the smallest roughly the size of a car, from 20 percent of the area affected by Cyclone Gabrielle. We can’t possibly map them all, but we believe there are about 750-850,000 in total.”

When it comes to excellence in precast concrete, Nauhria deliver world class quality and innovative product solutions right here in New Zealand.

As market leaders of the precast trade, Nauhria’s team of 350+ readily support the architectural design community together discovering and developing innovative and effective solutions to overcome tomorrows construction challenges.

With a strong and proven track record in servicing commercial projects, Nauhria’s professional team of 350+ leverage their wealth of knowledge and experience to benchmark industry best practice while testing new innovative solutions

for modern energy efficient homes and infrastructure projects where time is paramount in so many ways.

Nauhria’s governing purpose is to “help build a great and safe New Zealand”. this ethos is evidenced in part through their commitment to R&D which has contributed to the successful improvements in precast technology including safer handling and better scientific understandings of both concrete manufacturing and product performance.

If your project is important to you, seek to engage with a caring, professional and certified precast manufacturer, contact Nauhria and arrange a visit to their new manufacturing facility in Papakura, South Auckland, and remember that… Together concrete can be beautiful!

Marketing made simple

Callon Creative transforms your marketing from complicated to simple, ensuring your brand’s influence is felt far and wide.

Amy Callon, founder of Callon Creative, is passionate about transforming marketing confusion into clear, actionable plans.

Inspired to start her own business for the flexibility and personal fulfilment it brings, Amy thrives on problem-solving and making marketing simple, fun and personalised. She values the joy of seeing her work and her clients succeed in the real world, emphasising the importance of confidence and dedication in her journey.

From crafting a compelling website that captures your brand’s essence to managing your social media presence

with engaging content, Amy’s expertise lies in creating consistent and strong brand identities. Imagine having a partner who not only designs your logo and website but also takes charge of your entire online presence, leaving you free to focus on what you do best.

With glowing testimonials from satisfied clients, Callon Creatives personalised approach to marketing makes all the difference. Let Amy’s passion and creativity bring your business goals to life, offering you peace of mind and the joy of seeing your brand thrive in the digital world.

Our team can help your team

Because our clients don’t sell houses every day- we know it can be a stressful process. We understand the value of negotiation, sale documents and their implications. Let our knowledge and time help you get the best outcome.

While providing the right amount of professionalism and care. We pride ourselves on easing the process, being there for you from the first point of contact. It’s very important that our agency has the right culture of helping and supporting each other, so we can be best prepared to help and support you for a tailored real estate experience. We invest in our clients so you can focus on the next step.

Our values are:

• Respect and empathy

• Taking time to do it right

• Reducing the stress from the process

• Good old-fashioned honesty

• Providing the right Information, so you can make an informed decision.

Believing that by appreciating others’ efforts, acknowledging what they do and encouraging their input allows for ownership of projects and genuine buy-in. We employ a professional photographer to provide the best photos,

floor plan and lager pictorial signboard to showcase your property at its best; we widely advertise our listings over 7 websites and provide a feature package,1/4-page local paper advertising and social media. We know our strategy – listing with a price because we know the market, we get genuine enquiry and investing in our clients because we know the importance of getting the base of the project right. We understand that we are often entrusted with our client’s biggest asset and doing it right first time is key!

We have a strong community support focus which includes providing bach stays for local schools’ sports groups and charities, sponsoring Mathematics for a Lifetime Trust, Waikato Breast Cancer, St Johns and Te Awamutu Golf Club amongst others. We volunteer person power wherever we can in the community.

First National is a co-operative, all agencies are individually owned, with a common goal of helping our colleagues throughout Australasia. When you sign up with a First National agency you have access to all resources from the national and international network. If you have projects in different regions, we can help with that. Use our time and expertise to save you money and let you do what you do well.

Our team is ready to help you, let us join your team!

• DRILLING RIG MAINTENANCE AND SHIFTING • TINY HOME CARTING AND PLACEMENT • SITE MAINTENANCE • TRUCK AND BOAT SALVAGING • TREE REMOVAL • STRUCTURAL STEEL PLACEMENT • CONTAINER CARTING AND PLACING

• PRE-CAST PANEL CARTING AND ERECTION • SWIMMING POOL PLACEMENTS • CERTIFIED LOAD PILOTS • OVER-DIMENSIONAL TRANSPORT