NZ Plumber April-May 2024

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• ENGINEERED TEST PLUG FOR WATER AND AIR TESTING

• AS/NZ APPROVED WATERMARK STANDARD

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Volume 76, Number 2

MAGAZINE TEAM

CEO Greg Wallace

EDITOR Beverly Sellers 0272 923 923 bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz

PRINT Blue Star 33 Jackson Street, Petone, Wellington

DESIGN

SCG Senior Designer – Julian Pettitt

SCG Senior Account Director – LauraGrace McFarland scg.net.nz

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NZ Plumber is published six times a year by Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ. Members and Certifying tradespeople receive all six editions. If you wish to opt out, please email bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz

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MAILING LIST

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NZ Plumber is the official magazine of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ Inc. Contact details for the Master Plumbers board, staff, branches and associations are available at www.masterplumbers.org.nz

©NZ Plumber 2013. Registered as a Newspaper, GPO, Wellington, ISSN 0111-4379. NZ Plumber is subject to copyright in its entirety. The contents may not be reproduced in any form, either in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved in material accepted for publication, unless initially specified otherwise. All letters and other material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled ‘Not for Publication’. Views expressed in articles in NZ Plumber magazine are not necessarily those of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ Inc, or of the Editor. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information included in this publication, the publisher and the Editor take no responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences of reliance on this information. Publication of advertising material implies no endorsement of either a product or service.

In the picture

A word of thanks to our cover stars.

Featuring on this edition’s cover are Andrew and Kay Durrans of Auckland Plumbers Group, which won New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year at the 2024 New Zealand Plumbing Awards.

Andrew, Kay and other members of the APG team were among nearly 500 guests to attend the national awards night, held at Tākina in Wellington in mid-April at the end of another highly successful annual conference (turn to page 15 for full coverage).

After the event, they took time out of their work schedule for a photographer to come and take photos of them in the workplace for our front cover and the article on page 38, and they enjoyed borrowing the treasured pounamu trophy for the day of the shoot.

This is a great example of a business run by someone who isn’t a plumber by trade—Andrew spent many years in the print industry—but who recognises that any successful venture relies on great customer service and a focus on growing the team. People, in other words.

It’s for the same reason that we like to put people on the cover of the magazine. People who are helping this industry thrive, whether by running a business, working on the tools, or choosing to enter the plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting trades as an apprentice.

The other thing our cover stars have in common is Master Plumbers— either belonging to this membership organisation, working in a member business, or completing their apprenticeship through the Master Plumbers-owned Masterlink mentored training programme.

Last edition’s cover is a good example, featuring Blake Patrick of Limitless Plumbing & Gas, which won the 2023

Northland Master Plumber of the Year Award. We are grateful to Blake for taking part in the photo shoot and letting us tell his story in NZ Plumber

The photo chosen for the cover received feedback from some readers who took it to show pressure testing of an actual household installation and therefore non-compliant work.

As with any image, one picture doesn’t tell the whole story. This one was of Blake using a 4kg LPG cylinder and regulator for commissioning purposes only (operating and burner pressure setting), before installing a 9kg cylinder with an approved regulator and hose assembly for a gas hob inside the building.

Now, I’m not a plumber (or a gasfitter or drainlayer) but, like Andrew Durrans, I rely on good people who are. Technical articles in the magazine are fact checked and reviewed. Contributors get to see and sign off their content for accuracy. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all those people who help create a magazine for the New Zealand plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying industry—and to those people who agree to feature on the cover. We hope you enjoy reading their stories.

Beverly Sellers Editor, NZ Plumber, bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz

Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini Success is not the work of individuals, but the work of many

key stages to consider

business loan jargon

key changes in the construction contract standard

to maximise impact without breaking the bank

people

under 90-day trial period

having the right PPE is just the first step

apprentice voice for industry ARG holds its first meeting

This award-winning apprentice has achieved her childhood dream

Honest, reliable, professional, innovative. These are the core values at Auckland Plumbers Group (APG), winner of the 2024 New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year. Owner Andrew Durrans and his wife Kay are shown on our cover with the Taonga Paraihe o NZ Master Plumbers—the magnificent centennial trophy awarded to the supreme business winner each year since 2001. APG put their focus on great customer service and on training apprentices to grow their team and fill our industry’s workforce shortage. Read all about this award-winning company on page 38.

Although it seems a long time since we completed our 2024 conference, it is still fresh in our memory for the great success and engagement we had with the wider industry. I’m extremely proud to say it was our biggest conference ever and culminated in close to 500 attending the NZ Plumbing Awards Night.

The amazing Mico welcome night at Parliament, Marley fun night and Plumbing World awards night really emphasised the incredible people and industry that we have in New Zealand.

I’d like to congratulate all award winners, particularly Andrew and Kay Durrans and the team from Auckland Plumbers Group for winning the New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year Award 2024. This award is deserved recognition for someone who came into the industry just over a decade ago and has achieved outstanding results for his business, his apprentices, staff training and customer interaction.

Some of the stories we heard from our exceptional apprentices at the awards night were truly heartwarming and the way Maria Contreras Huerta and Phoebe Coers spoke made everyone in the room proud of our industry.

The night was also an opportunity for posthumous acknowledgement of Master Plumbers Life Member John deBernardo. It was incredibly humbling to have Michele deBernardo and her daughters there to receive the award John so merited for his services to Master Plumbers and the industry.

During the conference, we heard from Housing Minister Chris Bishop, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk and Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds. Their ministerial portfolios have a great deal to achieve to

CEO’S REPORT

ensure we have a thriving construction sector. After a few years of having no ministers turning up at conference, it was pleasing to see their interaction, hear some of their plans and to be able to demonstrate the progress Master Plumbers has made with our advocacy projects and action plans.

We received confirmation from Minister Penk that self certification for plumbers and drainlayers will proceed within months, which is an amazing achievement after almost four years of effort by Master Plumbers.

We are committed to ensuring there is an avenue for all apprentices to raise issues.

There’s no doubt that the apprentice training regime needs complete reform and, as Minister Simmonds highlighted, Te Pūkenga’s $80m deficit is not sustainable. At the conference, we heard from the wonderful group of apprentices in the newly formed Apprentice Representative Group (read more on page 83), and some of the stories they shared of their training regime were both enlightening and concerning.

We are committed to ensuring they have a strong voice through to the workforce development council and that there is an avenue for all apprentices to raise issues if apprentice training and logistics do not meet industry expectations. I’d like to thank Colleen Upton for her tireless support of apprentice training advocacy and agreeing to chair this important group.

I would also like to congratulate Ashley Carter as our first Master Plumbers Board Intern and Scot Pearce from Auckland for his appointment to the board. We are hugely grateful for the services that both Sarah Jamieson and Martin De Gouw have provided to the board. I’d also like to acknowledge Jon Lewis as our past president. Jon has a passion for training apprentices and he is a New Zealand expert in the field of backflow prevention. I know Grayson Allen from Hawke’s Bay will bring the same commitment and drive to his role as incoming president.

Finally, my thanks to Fleur Nicholas and the entire Master Plumbers and Masterlink team. It takes a massive effort to facilitate such a successful conference and I can’t thank the team enough for delivering a New Zealand-leading event such as this after six months of planning and sometimes stress.

To our members, hosts, apprentices and business partners, thank you for supporting the industry and choosing to be a part of the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying community. We are looking forward to hosting the executive branches from across New Zealand at the Leadership Forum from 22-23 August and already considering how we can improve the format for these two days.

We are also looking forward to another amazing conference next year. Mark your calendar now for Brisbane, 30 April to 2 May 2025.

Greg Wallace, CEO Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers

NZ

Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa

Let us keep close together, not wide apart

Masterlink Apprentice Workshops and Workplace Assessments

These game-changing Masterlink services are the only ones of their kind running the length and breadth of New Zealand.

MASTERLINK APPRENTICE WORKSHOPS ARE MORE THAN JUST STUDY GROUPS

Masterlink Apprentice Training Manager Pete Shields is qualified to result work and sign off unit standards during these day-long workshops.

In the past year, 1,000 unit standards have been signed off and Masterlink apprentice completions have grown by over 20%!

Pete and the team of Masterlink training experts are on hand to assist apprentices completing their outstanding online course work during the workshops.

Masterlink pays participating apprentices’ wages and provides catering during these assisted learning sessions.

MASTERLINK WORKPLACE ASSESSMENTS

This initiative helps Masterlink apprentices who have been waiting for their final block courses to be scheduled to complete their qualifications in a timely manner.

As a certified workplace assessor, Pete Shields visits apprentices on site to assess their on-job work.

If their work meets the assessment criteria of a scheduled block course, Pete can sign off the unit standard and the apprentice is no longer obliged to attend the course.

APPRENTICESHIP BOOST FUNDING

Employers – including Masterlink hosts – can access the government Apprenticeship Boost subsidy of $500 per month for each new apprentice, for up to 24 months, or until the initiative ends.

JOIN

MASTERLINK – THE ONLY NZ-OWNED NATIONAL GROUP TRAINING ORGANISATION FOR THE PLUMBING INDUSTRY

Call us on 0800 502 102 Talk to your Regional Manager

BOOKINGS OPEN FOR 2024 CPD SESSIONS

The first of the 2024 CPD roadshows from the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Board was held during the 2024 NZ Plumbing Conference in Wellington. The roadshows, sponsored by Mico, will run at 16 venues around the motu until 2 August. All sessions include something to eat and drink. If you are a registered person (Journeyman, Tradesman or Certifying), completing CPD is a mandatory condition to relicense each year.

Attending a roadshow will fulfil your CPD requirement for the 1 April 2025-31 March 2026 licensing year. An online CPD course will be available in October 2024 if you can’t make it to a roadshow. The cost for attending a roadshow or completing the online course is $35 inc GST.

Book your CPD roadshow session at https://pgdbcpd.arlo.co

Attendees at the first PGDB CPD training roadshow, held during the Master Plumbers annual conference in Wellington.

CATCH UP WITH NEWS AND INITIATIVES FOR OUR INDUSTRY.

Transitioning to lead-free plumbing products

The latest round of consultation on lead-free plumbing products closed in late April. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) have proposed extending the transition period end date for the lead and dezincification plumbing product provisions from 1 September 2025 to 1 May 2026. This would realign the ‘lead free’ transition period end date with Australia, which was extended last April to allow time for registration of a lead-free trademark under the WaterMark scheme.

“Where possible we strive to align with our major trading partners to ensure a healthy and competitive market in Aotearoa New Zealand,” said Dave Gittings, Building and Performance Manager at MBIE. “Feedback from the sector also highlighted the need to consider an extension to provide

plumbing product manufacturers and suppliers additional time to make the necessary changes.”

Master Plumbers chief executive Greg Wallace says the sooner New Zealand can move to lead-free plumbing products, the better. “Ultimately, we all want New Zealanders to have safe drinking water. Considering parts of North America went lead free in 2014, we seem slow to react. As far as Master Plumbers is concerned, the debate should be over. We took lead out of paint and petrol, so we should take it out of drinking water.

“Master Plumbers is also adamant that all suppliers of lead-free plumbing products must have a lead-free mark on their product or packaging. This would align us with Australia and make it easier for consumers and tradespeople to identify compliant product.”

COUNCILS TO SUBMIT REGULAR BUILDING CONSENT DATA

As of this April, Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) are required to submit timeframes for building consent and code compliance certificate applications. The data will be published on MBIE’s website every quarter.

“Applications for building consents and code compliance certificates must be completed within 20 working days, however feedback from the sector is that they often take a lot longer causing frustrating and costly delays for builders,” said building and construction minister Chris Penk on announcing the new requirement. “This added scrutiny will provide greater certainty for the sector, encourage best practice and drive innovation that will help reduce delays and let Kiwi builders get on with the job.

“Collecting this data is also an important early step that will help inform future changes in the Government’s ambitious plan to streamline the building consent system and make it easier to build.”

MASTER PLUMBERS RAISES CONCERNS AROUND BUILDING PRODUCT INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS

Under the new building product information requirements, which came into effect last December, details about designated products, including sanitary plumbing and drainage products, must be made freely and publicly available, including how they contribute to compliance with the Building Code and how they should be used and installed.

During the consultation process on the new requirements, Master Plumbers questioned the Ministry of Building, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)’s capability and resources to monitor the

new system and ensure compliance for online retailers.

“We continue to have strong concerns that MBIE’s ability to ensure compliance of online distributors is limited,” says Master Plumbers chief executive Greg Wallace.

“We have written to MBIE but have not yet received a satisfactory reply as to how they are proactively managing compliance.

“New Zealand based suppliers face quite a process and cost to ensure their compliance to this new regime and Master Plumbers wants to ensure a level playing field.”

SUPERVISION CHECK ADDED TO LICENCE RENEWAL PROCESS

The Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) has added a new supervision check to the licence renewal process. The licensing system will now automatically check the location of a nominated supervisor against the location of the person being supervised. If your nominated supervisor is in a different region from you, your licence will not go active until the PGDB can confirm your supervisor is providing adequate supervision.

The PGDB will get in touch with your supervisor within five working days of your application for your 2024/2025 licence. All supervisors have been informed of this change.

Renew your licence online at www.pgdb.co.nz via the Trade Login or App, click the Licensing tile and follow the process. If you have any questions, contact the PGDB registration and licensing team on 0800 743 262, ext 1 or email licensing@pgdb.co.nz

SIGNIFICANT

CHANGES INTRODUCED TO AEWV SCHEME AND GREEN LIST

AEWV

Immigration New Zealand has re-introduced using the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) requirements in its assessment of any Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) application. Employers need to correctly identify the ANZSCO code most closely matching any vacancy they are seeking to fill.

All employers must now take reasonable steps to check that a prospective migrant meets minimum skill requirements to be granted an AEWV, which is at least three years of relevant experience or a Level Four qualification. This may mean a migrant requiring an assessment of their qualification from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. AEWVs will be issued with a condition requiring employers to employ migrants for at least 30 hours per week.

Other changes impact employers recruiting overseas workers to fill roles at ANZSCO level 4 and 5. This includes roles such as Plumber’s Assistants, and Drainage, Sewerage and Stormwater Labourers. The announced changes are:

Any employer seeking to fill these lower skilled positions must now advertise the vacancy for 21 calendar days and also engage with Work and Income.

Applicants must provide evidence they meet minimum English language requirements.

AEWV holders working in these roles who are being paid at or above the median wage, but below 1.5 times the median wage in the Skilled Migrant Category (currently $47.41 per hour), will now only be able to stay a maximum of three years in New Zealand.

Residence visa pathways

Plumbers, Drainlayers and Gasfitters remain on Tier 2 of the Green List. Therefore, any AEWV holders working in these occupations who meet the specific registration requirements continue to have a pathway to residence.

Employer Accreditation Obligations

Accredited employers must notify INZ within 10 working days if an AEWV holder leaves their employment more than a month before their visa expires, or of any respective changes to their Key People. Any accredited employers being actively investigated for any breach of their accreditation may have their accreditation suspended.

Is this the end of the changes?

Unfortunately, not. There is likely to be further change to the AEWV scheme in the near future, as well as changes to other visa categories.

Author:

Nicky Robertson, Special Counsel, Duncan Cotterill: 021 635 629

EINVOICING ENABLING FASTER PAYMENTS TO REDUCE SUPPLY CHAIN DISRUPTIONS

As part of the construction sector supply chain, plumbing businesses all have cashflow pressures, and eInvoicing is one way to help improve things. eInvoicing is the secure digital exchange of invoice information directly between buyers’ and suppliers’ financial

The NZ and Australian governments have committed to a joint approach to eInvoicing, using a global standardised framework that enables businesses to exchange procurement documents electronically.

systems, even if these systems are different. Benefits include no more PDFs or email, reduced errors with no manual data entry, and quicker processing and payment times.

To be eInvoicing capable, you need to do two things:

1. Get set up

You’ll need software that can send and receive eInvoices—like Xero or MYOB Register to receive eInvoices. Follow your software provider instructions and have your NZ Business Number (NZBN) handy.

2. Exchange eInvoices with your trading partners

Provide your suppliers with your NZBN and ask them to send you eInvoices To start sending eInvoices you’ll need your buyers’ NZBNs. Add this to each customer record in your accounting or invoice system

Follow your software provider’s instructions to create and send eInvoices.

Want some good news stories? You’ve come to the right place.

Sarah Vining celebrates 25 years at Plumbing World in 2024, the past 18 of them as National Marketing Manager on the Senior Leadership Team. “I have a fantastic team split across the Marketing Team in Palmerston North, where I am based, and the Category Team in Auckland,” says Sarah.

Her career milestone is made all the more special by the fact that NZPM are also celebrating 60 years of being in business this year. “Being part of a co-operative is a great business model, and I like how my own personal values align heavily with the company’s values,” she says.

Sarah’s career highlights to date include moving the company colour to black and introducing Kieran Read (from the ‘other team in black’) as brand ambassador for six years, as well as being involved in the Plumbing World Young Plumber of the

Year initiative since 2017. “I’ve also had the privilege of travelling to amazing places around the world with some incredible shareholders through our Overseas Trips Programme, where we have experienced once-in-a-lifetime events.”

Over the past 25 years, Sarah has seen a lot of change within the industry, and it is rewarding to see improved equality, she says. “Having more women involved in this industry across all roles has meant there is better balance, more diverse decision making and creativity to make it an even greater industry to be involved in. It is fantastic to see conversations and initiatives involving mental health also taking such a more prominent place.

“I’ve also had the privilege of working with the Master Plumbers for all my 25 years and it is incredible to see how they’ve grown and

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, world champion rugby player and building apprentice, has joined Bunnings Trade as ambassador for the new Bunnings Trade Future Leader Awards for Women in Trades. The very first winners of the awards, which have been made in partnership with NAWIC NZ, will be notified in May, as this edition goes to print. The winners will receive prize packs valued at over $7,500, including $5,000-worth of Bunnings gift cards and 12-month NAWIC mentorship and membership. “As someone who has overcome numerous barriers as a female rugby player, I know first-hand how important meaningful support is to help women thrive in male dominated industries,” says Portia.

become such a strong industry advocate under Greg’s leadership. Long may it continue.”

Sarah loves the people she gets to work with every day and the fact that our industry is helping to improve people’s lives every day “by giving them safe drinking water, and allowing them to enjoy all our amazing, reviving bathroom products and more”.

She says she fully embraces this quote from the late Steve Jobs on how to enjoy a rewarding career: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.”

Plumbers Chris Dick, Clyde Andrews and Steve Millson raised a massive $15,000 for mental health charity MATES in Construction by competing in the two-day, three-person event at the 2024 Kathmandu Coast to Coast NZ. The three, who each run a Laser Plumbing branch, say the event was one of the toughest physical challenges they have faced… but not as tough as it is for some colleagues who struggle to make it to work due to mental health issues. Chris ran, Clyde cycled and Steve kayaked the iconic 243km annual race from the west coast to the east coast of the South Island. Big-ups, guys!

Send us your good news stories! Email the Ed: bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz

Sarah Vining celebrates 25 years at Plumbing World this year.

31 MAY – ONLINE

JUN – ONLINE masterplumbers.org.nz/events

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

Making a difference that matters.

As a co-operative we are passionate about sustainable development, we want to make a positive impact, for our customers, our staff, our suppliers and communities across Aotearoa, and continually seek ways to protect and preserve our planet for future generations.

We are passionate about treating people with respect and creating positive, healthy, and safe experiences and environments for all the people that engage with us.

Caring for our Community is important to us – we are proud to support these nationwide cancer charities: Bowel Cancer NZ, Breast Cancer Foundation, Prostate Cancer Foundation.

We are proud to support renewable energy in Aotearoa and have joined Meridian’s 100% Certified Renewable Energy programme, as well as donating annually to Trees That Count.

plumbingworld.co.nz/social-responsibility

BLOWN AWAY BY WELLINGTON!

Another hugely successful New Zealand Plumbing Conference saw over 400 participants from around the country come together in Pōneke Wellington this April.

Keynote speaker Sir Wayne Smith opened the 2024 New Zealand Plumbing Conference with some coaching tips that can be translated into business success. When it comes to handling pressure, trust the process and focus on systems, not on the outcome, he said. Work on yourself, believe in yourself, despite any setbacks, and always work as a team. It’s all about the ‘we’ rather than the ‘me’, with each person contributing their own particular skills to making the team better, he said.

His own approach to coaching changed dramatically when he switched from giving instructions to asking players for their own response to a situation. “Empower people so they’re responsible for your values, vision and how you want to operate,” he said. If each person is responsible for their own excellence, they will feel part of the organisation.

Smith, who has coached the All Blacks and the Black Ferns to Rugby World Cup Final wins, stressed the importance of leaders and mentors who have a dynamic goal of growth and development.

Other speakers on the opening day included disputes resolution expert Trevor Slater, who had advice on how to successfully handle complaints. “Complaints can have a devasting effect on your reputation, which is the most important asset in your business,” he said.

Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk discussed the importance of cutting “unjustifiable red tape” to help make it easier and quicker to build homes. Self-certification for plumbers and drainlayers was one such opportunity, he said, and could be expected “in months, not years”.

“We’ve been listening carefully to issues you’ve been raising and want to give effect to the solutions you propose and work with you to understand the significance of being able to self-certify” he said.

Keynote speaker Melissa Clark-Reynolds had the audience engaged on the second day with her presentation on how to predict the future with reasonable accuracy. “The present is messy and

contradictory and the future will be too,” she said. However, by watching trends and particularly looking for small signals of change, we can get an idea of where the world is heading. “Talk to young people in your organisation and stop yourself from saying, ‘We’ve always done it this way,” she said. “Stay curious.”

SAVE THE DATE!

Get ready for the 2025 New Zealand Plumbing Conference, to be held in Brisbane from 30 April to 2 May.

Keynote speaker Melissa Clark-Reynolds.

ACTION CENTRAL

Awesome social events during the conference included a VIP evening in parliament, a fun night at the museum and afternoon wall climbing and bowling options.

Mico Welcome Night

The Mico Welcome Night was

the

Afternoon leisure activities

On the Friday, participants headed to their chosen leisure activity options at Fergs, Zealandia and Holey

held in

Banquet Hall at Parliament, hosted by Housing Minister Chris Bishop, Leader of the House.

Moley.

Marley Fun Night Dinner

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand was the fabulous venue for the Night at the Museum Marley Fun Night Dinner.

Master Plumbers and Masterlink team members played cops and robbers.

Daytime sessions and speakers

Daytime sessions provided a mix of keynote speakers and interactive discussion panels on workforce development, the state of the sector, future gases, and diversity in plumbing, with keynote speaker Wayne Smith busy with book signings after his presentation.

“Hello possums!” Best dressed man prize went to Andrew Durrans of PlumbersAuckland Group.

Venus de Milo magic won Emma MacMillan the prize for best dressed woman.

Aviation through the ages proved a winning costume choice for the best-dressed couple.

YEAR IN REVIEW

Apprentice training delivery, government advocacy work, and new initiatives for the benefit of member businesses were all discussed at the 2024 Master Plumbers AGM.

In his report to the Master Plumbers annual general meeting, outgoing national president Jon Lewis reminded delegates of the role of president as conduit between the national board and the regional branches. He encouraged members to support their local branch by helping out or taking a leadership role, which he said was very rewarding. “You will also find it beneficial to your own business and personal growth.”

Good

time to train

Jon also urged members to continue training apprentices, noting that it can be easier to focus on training in times of quieter workload. “Every business has a value and you can grow that value by taking on apprentices,” he said.

In her report, Masterlink chair Sam Tyson acknowledged a challenging year in mixed market conditions, whilst noting that Masterlink apprentices numbers had held steady in 2023. Sam personally thanked all those in the room who were hosting apprentices through the Masterlink programme. “Masterlink apprenticeships are a great opportunity for developing your business,” she said.

Sam also highlighted the leadership role Masterlink was playing in the apprentice training delivery space—setting a new industry standard for workplace assessments through its apprentice workshops and on-job assessment programme.

Cyclone Gabrielle impacts

Chair Craig Foley and chief executive Greg Wallace both alluded to the hardship experienced by members in areas worst affected by Cyclone Gabrielle, with recovery work likely to continue for many months to come in the aftermath of the event.

“I do really want to acknowledge the tremendous efforts of our members, who supported their local communities during this stressful time, which served as another reminder of the critically important role our industry plays in protecting essential infrastructure,” said Greg.

Master Plumbers highlights in 2023 had included receiving a number of industry awards, including the 2023 Kalmar Construction Mental Health and Wellbeing Award at the SiteSafe awards, noted Greg. A new branch for Northland was also key for strong regional representation in this large geographical area, he said.

THANKING ALL CONFERENCE SPONSORS

The New Zealand Plumbing Conference is growing in popularity year on year. Master Plumbers would like to thank the sponsors who made this year’s event possible.

Plumbing World

New Zealand Plumbing

Awards Dinner

Mico

Welcome Night

Marley

Fun Night Dinner and Product Showcase

MM Brands

Keynote Speaker

Sir Wayne Smith

Iplex

Keynote Speaker Melissa

Clark-Reynolds ONZM Rheem

Women and Diversity in Plumbing Panel

Discussion

Waihanga Ara Rau

Workforce Development

Panel Discussion

Kohler

Conference Bag

Gallagher

Coffee lounge and coffee cart

Firstgas

Thursday morning tea

Aqualine

Thursday lunch

Rockgas

Thursday afternoon tea

Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Board

CPD catering

Masterlink

Friday morning tea and lunch and Holey Moley

leisure activity

Methven Caroma

Zealandia leisure activity

Allproof

Product Showcase

The 2024 AGM included a successful resolution to simplify the society rules and replace them with a new constitution.

Master Plumbers Board chair Craig Foley presented outgoing Board members Sarah Jamieson and Martin De Gouw with certificates of appreciation.

MASTER PLUMBERS BOARD 2024-2025

The Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ Board for the 2024-2025 term was announced at the AGM.

Martin De Gouw has retired after 11 years’ service on the Board and Martin was thanked sincerely for his tremendous contribution during this time. Scot Pearce of Water to Waste in Auckland was announced as a newly elected Board Member and Sarah Jamieson thanked for her commitment to the Board over the past year, particularly in driving the new People and Culture Committee.

Ash Carter, Manager at McIvor Plumbers & Gasfitters Wanaka, has been selected as the very first Board Intern in this new programme for the Master Plumbers Board. Ash is also president of the Master Plumbers Queenstown Lakes District Branch.

Jon Lewis is handing over the chains of office after six years as national president and Grayson Allen has been welcomed to the role. Craig Foley remains as chair with Felicity Caird as deputy chair, and Sam Tyson continues as Masterlink chair, with Dave Strong as deputy chair.

Action plan well-received

Master Plumbers was pleased to have seen positive outcomes for some its significant government advocacy projects during 2023, including changes to the Construction Contracts Act to better protect subcontractors. The Master Plumbers Action Plan document has been well received by ministers, said Greg, and will drive the advocacy strategy in 2024 regarding key issues and potential solutions.

Apprentice training delivery challenges were causing frustration among businesses and Greg acknowledged the huge contribution of members on the PGD strategic and technical reference groups in helping develop the new apprentice qualifications expected in 2025.

New member benefits

Initiatives introduced for the benefit of members during 2023 included a new legal service in partnership with Duncan Cotterill; a new health, safety and wellbeing advisor to support members, hosts and apprentices; and a new Business Benchmark Report service.

Master Plumbers delegates from around the regions, including Zane and Rachel Britton of the new Northland branch, attended the AGM in Wellington in April.

PERIMETER DRAIN

NEW AND IMPROVED GRATE CLIP SYSTEM

The new grate and clip system is 100% designed, developed and manufactured in New Zealand by Allproof using recycled materials and solar power.

The new innovative clip system improves the installation process and finished results utilising off-the-shelf components that are easy to customise on-site.

The 2024-25 Master Plumbers New Zealand Board, from left: Ash Carter (Board Intern), Nick Paris, Grayson Allen, Craig Foley, Dave Strong, Felicity Caird, Jon Lewis, Sam Tyson and Scot Pearce.

EXPO PAR EXCELLENCE

Innovation, new technologies, prizes and product excellence were all on offer at the 2024 Trade Show.

Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre provided worldclass exhibition and catering space for conference participants to enjoy this year’s trade show, with a record number of exhibitors showcasing products and services for the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying industry.

There were plenty of refreshments on offer, with coffee, morning and afternoon teas and lunches all available in the exhibition space during plenary session breaks.

Plus, with plenty of awesome prizes to be won, the trade show was humming over the three days of the conference.

EXHIBITOR A-Z

Master Plumbers would like to thank all exhibitors at the 2024 NZ Plumbing Conference: 43 South Advice Financial All Controls

Allproof APD

Apex Valves

Aqualine

Aquatherm

Brandt Equipment

Bunnings Trade Buteline Clarus

Drainquip Fergus Ford

Greens Tapware Groundplan

Halo Hydroflow

ICE Apprentice Training

Iplex

Kohler

Konnect Fastening

Makita

Marley

Master Plumbers and Masterlink

Methven Caroma Mico

Mitsubishi Electric

MM Brands

Mobilcard

PaySauce

Plumbing World

Rheem

Rinnai

RWC

SFA New Zealand

Simpro

St Michel

Stiebel Eltron

System Control

Terra Cat

Watersmart

Waterware

THE NEW APEX LEAD-FREE

In December 2023, Apex began the introduction of a new TV20 Tempering Valve, which has a replaceable cartridge The cartridge design enables quick and easy field ser vicing as the valve body can remain mounted in the pipework. The new TV20 has the same performance as the existing design and will retrofit existing installa tions so pipework remains unchanged

Transition to the new valve began in December 2023 for individual units, and the TV20 will be supplied in LEAD-FREE COMBI PACKS available early 2024

For more details, visit wattsnz.co.nz

STARS OF THE SHOW

Congratulations to the finalists and winners at the 2024 New Zealand Plumbing Awards, representing excellence in the industry. And the winners are...

New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year 2024

Auckland Plumbers Group

Master Plumbers Business Partner of the Year 2024 Marley

Andrew and Kay Durrans with the Taonga Paraihe o NZ Master Plumbers.

Scott Townsend, General Manager NZ Marketing (left) and Sean Waddell GM Sales celebrate Marley’s win.

Master of Ceremonies Jesse Mulligan at the 2024 New Zealand Plumbing Awards.

Graeme Victor Smith

Contribution to the Industry 2024

Martin De Gouw

Jackson Women in Plumbing Award 2024

Phoebe Coers

New Zealand Plumber, Gasfitter or Drainlayer Employee of the Year 2024

Andre Latell, Advanced Plumbing HB

James Douglas Medallion 2024

Gasfitting Finalist and Overall Winner – Dylan Roy, CJ Cant

Plumbing Finalist – Cameron Gray, Optiplumb

Drainlaying Finalist – Reece Weir, Fusion Plumbing and Solar

Outstanding Project Award 2024

Plumbing and Gas Works

NIWA Research Facility,

ACKNOWLEDGING MASTER PLUMBERS LIFE MEMBER JOHN DEBERNARDO

It was very special to have Michele deBernardo and her daughters at the 2024 New Zealand Plumbing Awards. The late John deBernardo MNZM was acknowledged on the night with posthumous Master Plumbers Life Membership for his massive contribution to Master Plumbers and the wider industry throughout his long career.

From left, Reece Weir, Dylan Roy and Cameron Gray.

Hamilton

Plumbing and Gas Works General Manager Mike Foote (left), Contract Manager Jacob Smith and Masterlink apprentice Kyan Avery.

Michele deBernardo with Master Plumbers Life Members Ray Galt (left) and Mark Whitehead (right).

Training Leader of the Year 2024

Product

Plumbing

MEMBERSHIP MILESTONE AWARDS

30

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Masterlink Apprentice Training Manager Pete Shields is New Zealand’s first certified Apprentice Training Assessor. He’s shown here assessing Masterlink apprentice Dylan Roy’s gasfitting work on Maui motorhomes leaving the production line in Hamilton. Dylan has now successfully completed his plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying qualifications.

In recent years, PGD apprentice training delivery has been disrupted by Covid lockdowns, tutor shortages and training provider changes—in some cases significantly delaying apprentice completions. The introduction of workplace assessments as part of an upcoming revision of apprentice qualifications is set to change all that, as NZ Plumber discovers.

AUTHOR: DAWN ADAMS MOTORHOME PHOTOGRAPHY: ROBIN HODGKINSON

Current plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting apprenticeships involve a combination of on-job experience with a business, online apprentice-led theory learning, and week-long block courses with a training provider for off-site training and assessment.

Covid lockdowns, tutor shortages and training provider takeovers have all impacted course scheduling in recent years. Delays have seen some apprentices—particularly in gasfitting— reach the expected duration of their qualification with practical assessments yet to complete. Understandably, these apprentices are keen to become registered and licensed, and to receive pay at a level that reflects their newly qualified status.

The businesses they work for also want their apprentices to become qualified and licensed in a timely manner, so they can be working productively out in the field.

Benefits of workplace assessment

The face of training delivery for new apprentices is set to change when workplace assessments are introduced within revised New Zealand Certificates in Plumbing and Drainlaying and in Gasfitting, due to be rolled out in 2025.

Employers will be able to opt for their apprentices to complete all their assessments at block courses or through a ‘hybrid’

model of on-job and off-site assessment. On-job assessments will reduce the number of weeks the apprentice needs to spend off-site and will formally recognise skills the apprentice is already commercially competent in. Another truly significant advantage of workplace assessments is that they provide a real-world scenario rather than a simulated environment.

Successful pilot project

Pete Shields, Apprentice Training Manager at Masterlink, has become New Zealand’s first, and currently only, certified Apprentice Training Assessor (ATA). A Certifying Plumber, Gasfitter and Drainlayer, Pete came to Masterlink from the Manukau Institute of Technology, where he ran the plumbing school as a qualified senior plumbing tutor.

His role in assessing gasfitting apprentices at their work sites began in 2023 as a trial for Ohu Ahumahi Workforce Development Councils. This assessment method is a huge time-saver for the apprentice and their employer but involves good preparation before the visit, says Pete. The more that can be prepared for him in advance, the quicker the process is for everyone.

During the assessment, he takes photos, collects relevant documents, such as gas certificates, and interviews the employer to get their verification that the work has been completed by the

apprentice. Pete will even speak with the end customer to support the assessment. “That’s because the end result is that the work has been completed for a client,” he explains.

In Pete’s opinion, workplace assessments will help ensure apprentices have an improved experience at training providers in future, with more scope to focus on training than assessment.

“In 2023, we’ve reported 1,000 unit standards for our Masterlink apprentices.”

PETE SHIELDS Apprentice Training Manager, Masterlink

Antony Russell, General Manager, Special Trades at vocational training provider Industry Connection for Excellence (ICE) in Auckland, also views the expanding options for assessment in the workplace as a positive move. “It has the ability to decrease time spent off work at block course and accelerate progress through the PGD apprenticeships,” he says.

“This is a big shift to what has traditionally been a ‘one-size-fitsall’ apprenticeship and will allow our team at ICE to work more closely with the apprentice and employer to create a pathway that works for their individual situation.”

Dylan Roy, who works with CJ Cant in Hamilton, qualified in plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting in December 2023 with the help of workplace assessments. He was at duration to complete his qualifications but, due to block course delays, had one outstanding gasfitting assessment.

“Covid pushed us back quite a bit,” he recalls. “And then when it changed from Skills to Te Pūkenga, we got pushed back again.”

Masterlink Apprentice Manager and workplace assessor Pete Shields was in touch by phone and email with Dylan, who trained through Masterlink, and carried out his final assessment on the job.

Pete remembers the day as being ‘seamless’. He arrived on site and everything was ready for him. “I was blown away by the standard and type of work that Dylan was involved with. And when I showed the workplace evidence collected for his gasfitter qualification to Te Pūkenga, they were stunned. The words from the head of the programme were, ‘This guy should be teaching.’”

“It’s a lot easier going to a job site and someone questioning me about what I did and why, versus going to a block course. It is faster too.”

DYLAN ROY

No surprises, then, that Dylan preferred his on-job assessment to the block course version. “It’s a lot easier going to a job site and someone questioning me about what I did and why,” he says.

“It is faster too. I think we covered the equivalent of a few block courses in less than half a day.”

He says it is also frustrating for apprentices to have to attend block courses that might be teaching them something they’ve already covered on site. “There’d be at least four or five block courses [on subjects] they’ve done before. Eliminating those excess weeks frees up more time for on-job learning.”

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Masterlink is also leading the way with apprentice training workshops—another new initiative in its assisted learning strategy to support trainees in completing their qualifications within expected timeframes.

At these full-day regional sessions, groups of apprentices are supported as they work on their online theory learning, which is marked on the spot and the results given on the same day. “If they are on a re-sit, say, and get stuck on a question, they can ask us for assistance,” explains Masterlink Apprentice Training Manager Pete Shields. “We’ll go through it, and then they’re able to complete the re-sit and pass the assessment accordingly.”

The earliest workshops were hosted around Pete’s dining room table, demonstrating his clear enthusiasm for supporting future plumbers. Their success led to workshops being rolled out countrywide—with 11 completed in 2023 and many more underway in 2024.

A recent Auckland workshop had over 25 attendees and Pete regularly gets asked when the next will be. Their popularity has meant hiring extra tutors to cope with all the marking.

Assisted learning workshops provide a way for apprentices who are behind to catch up and they also increase study confidence by helping with learning skills.

The existing training delivery method has required apprentices to pass the theory aspect of a topic before being allowed to attend block course. This has created a barrier for some who may struggle with theory learning and has led to apprentices falling behind.

Pete talks about the trouble some kinaesthetic learners have in trying to achieve the theory side of their qualification without

support. Many learn best when they are shown an idea rather than by reading a book, he says. “It can be a stressful process and there’s a huge responsibility on the apprentice to do the learning without assistance.”

Going forward, Masterlink apprentices will attend two workshops at the beginning of their studies, so they are better prepared for their theory learning ahead.

Workplace assessments and apprentice training workshops are both providing clear benefits for Masterlink apprentices. “In 2023, we’ve reported 1,000 unit standards for our apprentices,” says Pete. This figure includes 12 at-duration apprentices, who completed their gas training via workplace assessment due to block course unavailability.

From initial workshops around his kitchen table, Masterlink Apprentice Training Manager Pete Shields is now travelling around New Zealand to provide workshops for Masterlink apprentices, helping them complete their online theory learning.

Photograph:

Steve Meadows

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Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ thanks the following Partners for their support:

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Members

DISCOUNTED CAR & TRUCK RENTALS

Members of Master Plumbers can now book cars, SUVs, 4WDs and vans at specially reduced rates through Avis Rent a Car and Budget Rent a Car.

Master Plumbers members are entitled to special rates through Avis Rent a Car and Budget Rent a Car—both dedicated to providing quality late-model rental vehicles and the highest standards of customer service.

With over 40 convenient locations nationwide, Avis and Budget offer a wide range of current model passenger vehicles, including electric and hybrid vehicles, 4WDs, vans and trucks.

Master Plumbers member preferred rate benefits include:

Book a wide range of current model 4WDs, vans and trucks at special member rates through Budget Rent a Car.

Reduced rates

Reduced excess

Reduced airport and ferry terminal fees

No blackout periods.

How to book

Members can book online or over the phone using the member booking quotes available in the log-in area at masterplumbers.org.nz (under Member Deals>Vehicle Hire).

MINISTERIAL MEETINGS, AWARD WINNERS AND A NEW STRUCTURE FOR MASTER PLUMBERS AND MASTERLINK.

Advocacy update

In recent weeks, Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace has enjoyed the opportunity to meet with Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk, Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds, and Commerce and Consumer Affairs

Minister Andrew Bayly for positive discussions on some of the key industry advocacy issues outlined in the Master Plumbers Action Plan, including selfcertification for plumbers and drainlayers, and the WaterMark plumbing product certification scheme.

It was encouraging to hear the government’s announcement in early April that it plans to approve the use of building products that have been certified by reputable certification scheme overseas, such as the Australian WaterMark scheme, without the need for an additional approval pathway in New Zealand.

“Master Plumbers has long been an advocate for the adoption of WaterMark here in New Zealand,” says Greg Wallace. We are pleased to see the coalition government making progress on these matters.”

WaterMark is also going to require compulsory lead-free markings on relevant product and packaging, which Master Plumbers fully supports.

Minister Penk and Minister Penny Simmonds attended the 2024 New Zealand Plumbing Conference, giving members a chance to hear plans for our industry in the building and construction and vocational education space.

WORLD PLUMBING DAY PRIZE WINNERS

To celebrate World Plumbing Day on 11 March, Master Plumbers teamed up with Milwaukee to give away some awesome packout prizes. Congratulations to:

First prize – Large Milwaukee Packout Toolbox: Jared Wood of Bio Flow

Plumbing and Gas

Second prize – Milwaukee Packout Tool Tray: Gurmeet Grewal, Masterlink apprentice

Third prize – Milwaukee Packout Tumbler: Anthony Vartan, Masterlink apprentice

Plumbing plays a vital role in promoting health and sustainability around the world, and it’s great to have this annual opportunity to recognise all the hard-working people in the industry.

Minister Penk said the government remains committed to delivering self-certification to plumbers and drainlayers within “months not years”. He said the government is looking for “relatively quick, easy wins and self-certification represents one such opportunity.”

Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk speaking at the 2024 New Zealand Plumbing Conference in April. The government remains committed to delivering selfcertification to plumbers and drainlayers within “months not years”, the Minister said.

First prize winner Jared Wood with his Milwaukee Packout Toolbox!

GRAEME SMITH “A MASSIVE INSPIRATION”

Martin De Gouw of Clyne & Bennie Plumbing & Electrical received this year's Graeme Victor Smith Contribution to the Industry Award, which is presented annually in recognition of commitment to Master Plumbers, to the industry, to running a successful business and to developing young and future plumbers.

“This is certainly something that I would not have been able to do without the support of my wife Rhonda, staff and business partners at Clyne & Bennie,” said Martin. “The person who this award is named after, Graeme Smith, has been a massive inspiration and support for me. It is such an honour to be nominated and awarded this.”

Graeme, who has motor neurone disease, was unable to make this year’s NZ Plumbing Awards night to present the trophy, but Martin caught up with him after the event for a chat and to celebrate the win.

Master Plumbers has commented on proposed changes to the 2023 self-contained vehicle regulations.

MASTER PLUMBERS SAYS PROPOSED PLUMBING CODE FOR MOTORHOMES WOULD CAUSE CONFUSION

Master Plumbers has been asked for its views on proposed changes to the 2023 Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers (Self-contained Vehicles) Regulations, which aim to address sector concerns relating to the direct venting requirement for wastewater storage tanks and the levy refund process where a vehicle fails its self-containment inspection.

Master Plumbers’ preferred approach to the first issue is to maintain the status quo of the 2023 regulations that all wastewater storage tanks be directly ventilated to the exterior of the vehicle.

“We agree that cassette toilet venting may be impractical in small self-contained vehicles,” says Master Plumbers chief executive Greg Wallace. “However, we don't believe in creating a separate standard just for motor homes. A quasi-code outside of the PGD Act and plumbing standards wouldn't align with existing industry standards and would only create confusion.”

With regards to levy refunds, Master Plumbers feels refund powers should be delegated to self-containment certification authorities.

CONGRATULATIONS TO AUCKLAND PLUMBERS GROUP!

We are thrilled to announce that the 2024 New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year is Auckland Plumbers Group. Read all about this winning business on page 38.

NEW ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

Master Plumbers and Masterlink have been undergoing a reorganisation to create a unified and streamlined organisation. Under the new structure, Rhys Nimmo has been appointed to the role of General Manager for Master Plumbers and Masterlink. Rhys has been General Manager at Masterlink for the past 18 months, during which time he has made a tremendous impact.

Garry Ivill has also been appointed to the new role of National Sales Manager. Garry has worked in senior roles in the plumbing supply industry for 20 years, and the PGD vocational training industry for seven years. He was involved in the initial working group that set up the Industry Connection for Excellence (ICE), and was a director of the business for four years before being appointed as CEO of ICE and E-tec.

Melanie Hillier has been appointed as the new National Marketing and Communications Manager, with a new Auckland-based Business Development Manager also to be recruited. Master Plumbers and Masterlink look forward to continuing to provide great value to our members, hosts and apprentices under the new structure.

Rhys Nimmo has been appointed to the new role of General Manager for Master Plumbers and Masterlink.

New National Sales Manager Garry Ivill.

Groundplan

“a gamechanger”

Zane Britton’s plumbing business has become one of the largest in Northland within just six years.

Bay of Islands Plumbing & Gas (BOI) was poised for growth when the world was hit by Covid-19. Zane saw the lockdown as an opportunity to fortify BOI’s internal systems to be ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Leveraging tools like Simpro and Groundplan through Halo Trade Group, BOI found itself wellprepared to capitalise on the market’s potential. With major projects in the pipeline and robust systems in place, the company experienced an astonishing 40% year-on-year growth, prompting a move from an 80sqm shed to a 315sqm factory.

Adoption of technology is central to BOI’s success, with Zane emphasising the efficiency gained through the integration of Simpro and Groundplan. Pre-builds from Simpro appear as measurements in Groundplan. Once the takeoff is complete, the resulting BOQs and clearly marked plans generate much of the data and documentation required once the job is accepted.

Having transitioned from traditional methods to the streamlined processes afforded by Simpro and Groundplan, Zane urges others to make the leap for significant time savings and increased efficiency.

TOITŪ CARBONREDUCE CERTIFICATION RENEWED FOR

TWO YEARS

At Master Plumbers, we know the importance of operating in an environmentally sustainable way. So, we’re thrilled to announce that Toitū Envirocare has renewed our carbonreduce certification for another two years. This certification means we have measured and managed the operational emissions of our organisation, including business travel, electricity, vehicles and offices—and we are reducing our carbon footprint in line with international best practice.

NEW MEMBERS

A warm welcome to new Master Plumbers’ member businesses:

Allen Harriman Drainage – Auckland

Gravity Plumbing – Auckland

Water Wise Plumbing & Gasfitting – Waikato

Fair Trade Plumbing – Volcanic Plateau

Isaac’s Plumbing, Pumping & Electrical

– Hawke's Bay

Wairua Plumbing – Hawke’s Bay

Titan Plumbing and Gas – Manawatu

Mana Plumbing 2024 Ltd – Wellington

Leslie Drain Clearing – Hutt Valley/ Wairarapa

Tranquillity Plumbing & Gas – Nelson

HW Plumbing – Canterbury

Ken Toohey Plumbing – Canterbury

Simply Plumbing – Canterbury

Plumb FX – South Canterbury

JJ Plumbing & Gas – Queenstown Lakes District

WANT TO JOIN?

Master Plumbers is here to support all businesses in the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying industry. Members are Quality Assured and backed by the Master Plumbers Guarantee. We offer a wide range of business resources, health and safety, HR & technical support, plus training and member discounts— and we advocate for our members as a collective industry voice. Get in touch today!

Contact 0800 502 102

“A

TEMPLATE FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

A move from the printing to the plumbing industry in his fifties has proved a smart decision for Andrew Durrans of Auckland Plumbers Group, which was awarded 2024 New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year this April.

AUTHOR: LISA ONLAND PHOTOGRAPHY : ROBIN HODGKINSON

ou might be hard-pressed to think of the similarities between a printing and a plumbing business, but according to Andrew Durrans, owner of Auckland Plumbers Group, they’re more alike than you realise.

Y“Fundamentally, you’re dealing with staff and customers,” says Andrew. “Customers are the same in any industry: they want

a job done, whether it be five thousand letterheads for a mailout, or their hot water cylinder replaced.”

It’s no surprise then that these are two areas where APG has focused its efforts: growing its staff and offering great customer service.

Andrew got his career start as an accountant for a paper mill. After working his way up to marketing and managerial

positions, an opportunity arose in the print industry, and he decided to make the shift. He spent the next two decades in various management roles for printing businesses, responsible for hundreds of staff across multiple sites. As digital technology began to disrupt the sector, he found himself considering a career pivot at the age of fifty-three.

star team will always do better than a team of stars,” says Andrew Durrans of Auckland Plumbers Group, winner of the 2024 New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year top business award.

APG have sustainable options for disposal of cardboard, metals, soft plastic, concrete and porcelain.

Masterlink Regional Manager Steve Meadows catching up with Jack Smith, one of the Masterlink apprentices hosted by APG.

Andrew and wife Kay with the coveted Taonga Paraihe o NZ Master Plumbers, carved from a single block of pounamu in 2001 by artist Glen Surgenor.

Andrew knew he wanted to be in business, but he wanted to be part of an industry that was resilient, and able to weather changes in innovation and technical advancement. When the opportunity to purchase Auckland Plumbers Group came up in 2013, he and his business partner at the time, Certifying Plumber and Gasfitter John Hurcombe, jumped at the chance.

Growing from the ground up

His first question after taking on the business was where to find good trade professionals—discovering instead a glaring lack of people in the industry. “That’s where our apprenticeship programme started,” he recalls. “We said, ‘OK, we’ve got to grow from the floor.’”

Currently, they have a staff of 20 including seven apprentices. In the 10 and a half years Andrew’s been with APG, they’ve taken six people through to certification—four of them still with the company today. “At the end of the day, your people are your biggest asset,” he says. “Those people are worth their weight in gold; they’re the lifeblood of the business.”

Of course, there have been challenges along the way. In late 2019, after John moved on from the business, Andrew’s wife Kay, a registered nurse, decided she wanted to be more involved and joined the company’s advisory group.

Only months later, the world would be turned upside down due to Covid-19. He credits his wife’s medical knowledge and health and safety expertise as being invaluable during that time. “She was able to help lead us and guide us through quite a treacherous stretch of water. It was

a challenging time but also a good time because everybody grew together. Me and Kay in the trenches with the team.”

Andrew doesn’t see his lack of plumbing experience as a disadvantage; in fact he believes it has helped him be a better leader. “I’m working on the business not in the business, developing my team so that they can become better at the technical work that I can’t do.”

He looks for where employees stand out and encourages their individual passions. For one of his senior managers, Tom Berkley, this involved fostering his leadership in the training space. Tom, who won the New Zealand Training Leader of the Year Award in 2022, supervises the company’s unique apprentice training programme—dubbed APG Academy.

“We set aside an area of our workshop that’s got equipment in it to test and work on,” Andrew explains. “We’ve got continuous gas hot water systems on the wall, piping systems, a hot water cylinder, a sink, waste disposal unit; things for the apprentices to practise on in a safe environment.” Once a month Tom leads practical APG Academy sessions in the workshop followed by theoretical study where apprentices share experiences and learn from each other.

Making positive impressions

The company’s ethos involves four ‘core values’, which are displayed prominently on the office wall: honest, reliable, professional, and innovative. “We have a document entitled ‘Positive Impressions’, which sets out the ways to respond to members

of our team, our suppliers, our industry colleagues and our customers,” says Andrew. At fortnightly team meetings, one item is highlighted from the document as a reminder of the importance of these values while carrying out the work. This dedication shows up in online reviews and emails from customers about their experience, complimenting staff members by name. Speaking with Andrew, there are few topics that don’t lead back to people, who are clearly at the heart of APG’s success. When asked about his thoughts on taking home the Master Plumbers supreme business award for 2024, he is quick to point out that this is a team win. “A star team will always do better than a team of stars.”

SUSTAINABILITY PROGRESS

APG is working hard to embed sustainable practices and reduce the amount of waste to landfill. They have sustainable disposal options for metals, cardboard, soft plastic, porcelain, concrete and polystyrene. The next challenge is hard plastic recycling, and they’re working with Marley and WM New Zealand on a solution for their business in this space.

Andrew purchased APG in 2013 and has grown it to a current staff of 20 including seven apprentices.

Photograph: APG

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Devine Plumbing, Napier 2023 New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year

How to reduce distractions for your commercial drivers

The integration of in-vehicle camera systems in commercial vehicles is helping transform driver behaviours, as Teletrac Navman explains.

AUTHOR: CHRIS L’ECLUSE, SOLUTIONS SPECIALIST, TELETRAC NAVMAN

In the competitive trade landscape of New Zealand, operating your business efficiently is key to success. You need to be on top of your game to get business and keep your costs down, all while running a safety-conscious company that people will want to work for. Fortunately, several new developments in technology can help you do just that.

One such solution gaining momentum is the integration of in-vehicle camera systems in commercial vehicles—designed to reduce operating costs and enhance safety measures.

Improved driver safety

This comes at a time when driver distractions are at an all-time high. AA Insurance’s 2023 motor survey estimated that 267,000 Kiwis were in a car collision last year, with a third (34%) saying driver distraction was the cause.

In-vehicle cameras empower you to address safety concerns proactively. By capturing crucial event data such as distractions, cameras provide valuable insights for coaching and intervention. Automated coaching features personalised learning based on each individual driver’s behaviours, fostering continuous improvement and risk mitigation.

Verbal notifications alert drivers when events are triggered via metrics meeting thresholds—for example, cornering too hard, accelerating too fast—further enhancing safety on the road.

Business cost savings

Beyond safety benefits, in-vehicle camera systems yield tangible cost savings for trade businesses. By optimising driver behaviour and reducing the risk of collisions, businesses can lower insurance premiums and build a favourable claims history. Additionally, improved driving

AA Insurance’s 2023 motor survey estimated that 267,000 Kiwis were in a car collision last year, with a third (34%) saying driver distraction was the cause.

behaviour, vehicle maintenance, and fuel efficiency contribute to long-term cost reductions. By investing in video telematics systems, you’re positioning your business for long-term financial stability.

The availability of video footage can be a game-changer in an event involving a business vehicle. Rather than relying solely on testimonies, in-vehicle cameras provide irrefutable evidence of what transpired on the road. This protects drivers and vehicles from false accusations and mitigates the financial repercussions of fraudulent claims.

Enhanced safety culture

In-vehicle cameras also come with videosupported performance scorecards to create an engaging rewards programme that helps foster a culture of safety among your team. Using footage from in-vehicle cameras, you can objectively assess driver performance and incentivise safe driving practices. This proactive approach cultivates a workplace environment where safety is celebrated.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Teletrac Navman understands the unique needs of trade businesses in New Zealand. Its comprehensive range of video telematics systems is tailored to optimise efficiency, enhance safety, and drive business success. With a customer-centric approach, Teletrac Navman prioritise listening to your requirements and delivering tailored solutions that meet your specific needs.

In-vehicle camera systems represent a strategic investment for trade businesses looking to enhance efficiency, mitigate risks and foster a culture of safety. By leveraging actionable insights, you can confidently navigate the road ahead and unlock your operation’s full potential. www.teletracnavman.co.nz/fleet-managementsoftware/video-telematics

In-vehicle cameras capture event data, such as distractions, and provide personalised learning based on the individual driver’s behaviours.

“Beyond safety benefits, in-vehicle camera systems yield tangible cost savings for trade businesses.” Chris L’Ecluse, Solutions Specialist, Teletrac Navman

OUT & ABOUT

Fishing, a tunnel tour... and a first meeting for the new Master Plumbers Northland Branch.

Inaugural event for Northland Branch

The first meeting of the new Northland Branch took place on 1 March and was a great success. Members enjoyed food and drink, heard from new Branch President Zane Britton and Master Plumbers and Masterlink team members. The meeting also recognised the work of Barrie Purves, managing director of Master Plumbers’ member company Nero Developments, by making him the new branch’s first Associate Life Member.

Barrie Purves is the Northland Branch’s very first Associate Life Member.

Waikato, BOP and Auckland go fishing

Waikato, Bay of Plenty/Coromandel and Auckland members enjoyed a great fishing trip recently, once again put on by legends Warren Thompson, Dave Strong and David Whitfield!

“This year we were all mixed up to have everyone on different boats,” says Auckland Master Plumbers President Ben Mayne. “This encouraged plumbers to talk to other members they wouldn’t get a chance to talk to unless they came to conference.”

The competition was close right up to the last, but Auckland finally took away a win, with Jack Powell catching a 730mm long, 15-pound snapper.

“Big thanks to sponsors Iplex (taking out the Sponsor’s Trophy), Marley, Dux and Hirepool,” says Ben. At the prizegiving venue of the Coromandel Bowling Club, the winning team filleted the fish and cooked up the lunch feed. We all look forward to next year.”

Master Plumbers Auckland snuck into the lead thanks to Jack Powell’s prize catch!

Manawatu members tunnel under Massey!

Members of Manawatu Master Plumbers enjoyed a tour of some of the 2km of tunnels under Massey University in Palmerston North this March. “We are planning on repeating this, as this group got a lot from it and we can only take limited numbers through at a time,” says Manawatu Master Plumbers President Bill Dwyer.

Employment advice sessions

Members in Canterbury and Wellington were invited to HR sessions in April and May in partnership with Duncan Cotterill to discuss real-life employment matters in an open and supportive environment— gaining practical advice tailored to their specific needs.

The future of energy 100 years and

counting

For a century, we’ve perfected warming homes, not the planet. Our German engineered hot water solutions, pioneered by the first heat pump 50 years ago, deliver unmatched efficiency and sustainable hot water. Experience the future of home comfort, today. Make your next project a STIEBEL ELTRON project.

www.stiebel-eltron.co.nz

THERE’S PLENTY TO CELEBRATE AT MASTERLINK THIS EDITION, INCLUDING THE WINNERS OF 2024 PLUMBING WORLD SCHOLARSHIPS.

MUCH MORE THAN A NIGHT CLASS

Masterlink’s apprentice training workshops are more than study groups. Masterlink Apprentice Training Manager Pete Shields is a certified workplace assessor, qualified to sign off unit standards and provide results during the workshops. The workshops are aimed at apprentices needing a little help with the theory work they must complete before being able to attend block courses.

This game-changing Masterlink initiative is the only service of this type running the length and breadth of NZ. You can read more about these apprentice training workshops in the feature article on page 26.

Masterlink is scheduling 2024 assisted learning workshops around the country now. Register your interest through your Regional Manager.

Masterlink Apprentice Training Manager Pete Shields was on hand to help trainees and sign off unit standards at recent apprentice training workshops in Dunedin and Christchurch.

ARE YOU USING BWARE?

Masterlink apprentices have an amazing resource at their fingertips in the BWARE health and safety app. Apprentices can use the app to find forms, fact sheets and more—and it’s a super easy way to report workplace incidents.

Helpful information on BWARE includes health and safety focus topics—such as eye safety, hand protection, and managing fatigue— along with guidance and codes of practice from WorkSafe.

Apprentices can also use the information tab to access the Masterlink Wellbeing Check-In. This can be completed at any time an apprentice feels they could benefit from some wellbeing support.

Masterlink always welcomes suggestions from apprentices on useful topics and guidance that could be considered for inclusion on the app.

The BWARE Masterlink health & safety app includes helpful information and an incident reporting form.

WORLD PLUMBING DAY PRIZE WINNER

On 11 March every year, World Plumbing Day celebrates the trade and the people who work in it—on and off the tools.

Masterlink and Makita celebrated the day with an awesome prize draw for Masterlink apprentices, with the chance to win a powerful Makita Hammer Drill Kit valued around $1,000.

Draw entrants were asked to say what they love about plumbing in their entry. Lucky winner Mason Tombleson had this to say: “What I like about plumbing is I'm always doing something new and engaging while having fun at the same time.” Legend.

WINNING A CAREER KICKSTART

Huge congratulations to the three Masterlink apprentice winners of 2024 Plumbing World Scholarships:

Maria Contreras Huerta

Sam (Tui) Tuson

Jack Smith

Each wins a $1,000 credit to spend at their Plumbing World branch, giving them a great career kickstart. Special shout out to Maria for winning the overall scholarship award, which included free full registration to the 2024 New Zealand Plumbing Conference and Awards, including travel and accommodation.

ON THE WAY TO OUTWARD BOUND

Congratulations to the 10 Masterlink apprentices who have been awarded 2024 Masterlink Outward Bound Scholarships, thanks to the generosity of Methven Caroma. They are all set to join other construction industry apprentices in July for the adventure of a lifetime at the 2024 Building Leaders Course, which runs for 16 days at Outward Bound Anakiwa. Masterlink contributes to each apprentice’s travel costs and pays their wages for each working day spent on the course.

Ka rawe:

Paige Samuel

Shea Kitchin

Kai Gurton

Cooper Russell

Tyson Bennett

Rory von Vroonhoven

Aaren Markenstein

Gurmeet Grewal

Jonathan Kernohan

Clay Cooper.

We look forward to hearing all about your journey!

From left, 2024 Plumbing World Scholarship winners Jack Smith, Maria Contreras Huerta (overall winner) and Sam ‘Tui’ Tuson.

Masterlink milestones

WELCOME

Nau mai, haere mai to the newest Masterlink apprentices:

Tyler Midgley – Endurance Plumbing, Hawera

Hamish Leckie – Aotea Plumbing & Drainage, Christchurch

Liam Dredge – Flints Plumbing, Queenstown

Matthew Siebert – Moods Plumbing, Christchurch

James Harvey – Lakewide Plumbing, Taupo

Aaron Skipper – Greg Jones, Plumbing, Gasfitting & Drainlaying, Warkworth

Jack Wilkins – Tauranga Hardware & Plumbing

Byron Blane – Tauranga Hardware & Plumbing

Niko Sarich – EG Glennie & Co, Wellington

Duncan Otto – Laser Plumbing Whanganui

Logan Korving – Galbraith Plumbing and Drainage, Auckland

Francesco Tasi – David & Lu Plumbing, Auckland

Luke Pankhurst – Queenstown Plumbing & Gas

Aaron Cuff – FB Hall & Co, Hamilton

Alex Wilson – Cunningham Plumbing, Oamaru

Taine Smith – Hardy Plumbing and Gas, Wanaka

Conrad Awatere-Madden – Tech Mechanical, Napier

Innes Chapman – H&O, Napier

Harry Smith – JJ Plumbing & Gas, Queenstown

Kieran Chapman – Trent Dowd Plumbing, Hamilton

Oliver Bawden – Multi Civil Contractors, Wellington

Joel Potter – Morrinsville Plumbing and Gas Services

Paul Tansey – Paeroa Plumbing, Paeroa

QUALIFIED

Achieving Level 4 New Zealand Certificates is a major milestone. Congratulations to the most recent Masterlink apprentices to qualify:

Karl Quayle and Andrew Smith in Plumbing, Drainlaying and Gasfitting

Kahurangi Read and Jonathan Kuipers in Plumbing and Drainlaying

Ryan Staite, Jordan Lang, Tyler Ritchie, Daniel Hallam, Nathan Reynolds, Matenga Taihuka and Sam Bentham in Drainlaying

Isaiah Harding in Roofing

Kahu Read has successfully completed his plumbing apprenticeship through Masterlink. He’s shown here with supervisor George Leen of JLP, the company that has hosted Kahu for his on-job training since 2018. They are pictured on the site of the new Wellington Airport Fire Station, one of many commercial projects Kahu has worked on over the years.

Teigan Jopson marking the completion of her Masterlink apprenticeship. Teigan is thankful for the excellent on-job training and support that her host company, University of Otago Property Services Division, has given her during her apprenticeship. She’s shown here with Jeff Burrow, the university’s team leader of plumbing and gas.

The Team at Glennies Plumbing gathered to celebrate Andrew Smith gaining his New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing, which marks the completion of his plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting apprenticeship. Andrew is shown here wearing his Masterlink pounamu toki, presented along with his Masterlink Certificate of Completion.

Colin Kilpatrick

Steve Meadows

This photo was taken on the first day of Innes Chapman’s plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting apprenticeship with H&O Plumbing. Innes did 10 days’ work experience with the business late last year and impressed them so much they decided to take him on as an apprentice through Masterlink.

Trusted!

Comply to current & future standards

Hansen Easy Fit Compression Fittings

Hansen Easy Fit ID Compression Fittings

Hansen True Fit Threaded Fittings

Hansen True Fit Tank Fittings

Hansen Full Flow Ball Valves

Hansen Fastflo Valves

Hansen Easy Fit Poly Fittings

Helping you choose the right products

• Built to last

• Reputable suppliers

• Stylish and functional

• Manufacturer’s warranty

We put each and every Master Plumbers’ Recommends plumbing product to the test. When the product has met all the requirements, then it gets our tick of approval. Helping you to choose plumbing products that are right for your home.

Find out more about Master Plumbers’ Recommends by visiting tickofapproval.co.nz or phone 0800 502 105.

Master Plumbers 2021 Plumbing Product of the Year KOHLER MallecoTM Touchless Kitchen Mixer

LOOKING AFTER YOUR HEALTH & WELLBEING

If your business is a Site Safe member, you can now enjoy free access to digital wellbeing platform Ignite Aotearoa.

Burnout and fatigue are among the main impacts of work-related stress in the construction industry, according to a Site Safe and Massey University survey.

To help people working in the industry to prioritise their health and wellbeing, Site Safe is offering all its member businesses free access to Ignite Aotearoa—a digital wellbeing platform backed by independent mental health and social service organisation Emerge Aotearoa.

Over the next few months, 400 free one-on-one support sessions are also on offer for business owners and their staff to speak confidentially with a business or health professional. Counsellors, career coaches, psychologists, human resource specialists, financial advisors and dietitians are among the experts available through the platform.

“By sharing this offer with our members now, we’re encouraging them to ask themselves, “What do I need to get sorted, or learn how to manage, so it puts me in the best possible position when life gets busier later in the year?’” says Site Safe Chief Executive Brett Murray. “This could be as simple as speaking with a dietitian to help achieve your health and fitness goals; gathering information to better manage your finances; or talking to a counsellor about something that is troubling you.”

Find out more about Ignite Aotearoa at ignite.org.nz

SITE SAFE MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT

A quick reminder: Master Plumbers’ members are entitled to a 10% discount on Site Safe membership.

From humble beginnings in 1959 as a vinyl flooring manufacturer, Marley has become a household name in PVC and polyethylene pipe systems. We tour the company’s factory, exploring the business’s pipe production and discovering their sustainability ethos.

AUTHOR: JE T’AIME HAYR

In Manurewa, Auckland, Marley’s pipe and injection moulding production facility stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in New Zealand’s manufacturing landscape.

Marley is part of a group of companies called Aliaxis NZ, which employs 450 New Zealanders across the country—over half of them in the factories that make the piping products Marley is renowned for, along with fellow Aliaxis businesses Dynex and RX Plastics. What’s more, a remarkable 80 per cent of what Marley sells is made right here in New Zealand.

Quality pipe production

At the core of Marley’s production line lies a commitment to quality control and rigorous testing procedures. In the quality control room, hot and cold-water baths for pipe pressure testing ensure that all pipes are

resilient to extreme temperatures far beyond any they would encounter in their lifespan.

Marley’s OPTIM DWV pipe production involves innovative double or triple layer co-extrusion technology. This process merges multiple distinct layers, allowing for the creation of pipes with an aesthetically desirable virgin white plastic interior and exterior as well as a recycled content core. This enhances the structural integrity of the pipes but also addresses the challenge of including recycled materials in a high-quality product.

For Marley’s Drainflo corrugated drainage line, the use of recycled material is central to the production process. Up to 60 per cent recycled content is used in every coil of Drainflo, with sources such as milk bottles and janitorial bottles for the likes of shampoo and conditioner—diverting what would normally end up in landfill into a durable drainage product that will withstand the test of time.

Commitment to sustainability

A key goal for Marley is constant innovation towards products that do the same job more efficiently, improving performance and reducing waste to help plumbers to lower their carbon footprint. That philosophy is reflected in their own business too. They have invested in power and water monitoring equipment at all sites and across all machinery to enable investigation of energy spikes and easily rectify water leaks and inefficiencies. Beyond the factory floor, Marley’s commitment to sustainability is demonstrated in its ambitious recycling initiatives. Marley has been recycling its own products for the past 25 years, and now is also recycling from external sources. Although plastic manufacturing has changed a lot over the last 60 years, Marley can dose the right amount of recycled material into the new pipes.

Marley’s head office and main manufacturing site has been based at the Manurewa site since 1959 and today employs over 200 people in warehousing, distribution and manufacturing.

“Plastic’s durability makes it a low carbon option for use in building products because it doesn’t rust or break easily— some of our systems last up to 100 years,” explains Scott Townsend, General Manager – NZ Marketing. “The challenge is what we do with offcuts and leftovers and at end of product life. One of our big investments is in creating a recycling ecosystem to help products return to us at the end of life, along with offcuts and scraps that can be collected, sorted, washed, and shredded into granules to be reused.”

Another scrap product saved from landfill is waste generated during vinyl record production. Marley recycles this material thanks to a partnerships with Holiday Records and Stebbing’s.

In a significant investment in recycling infrastructure, Plastics Recycling New Zealand—a joint venture between Aliaxis and WM New Zealand (WMNZ)—acquired Comspec last year, a business that recycles milk bottles and janitorial waste. Thus far, hundreds of tonnes of products have been recycled instead of ending up in the landfill.

In the quality control room, hot and cold-water baths for pipe pressure testing ensure that all pipes are resilient to extreme temperatures.

Scott reveals that Marley received just over $4 million in funding from the government as part of the Ministry for Environment Plastics Innovation Fund to support this innovation, and Aliaxis alongside WMNZ will invest a further $8.5 million to create this system. “This will be a truly powerful way to reduce the virgin plastic we bring in from overseas and massively increase the proportion of recycled product in the next few years.”

Marley uses over 500,000 cartons per year shipping goods to customers around New Zealand and the world. Keep your eyes peeled in-store for the recently refreshed design!

The system has not been without its hurdles. “To help us overcome the logistical challenge of gathering old plastic to be recycled, we’ve partnered with community recycling centres to get old pipes back to WMNZ.”

Marley utilises two reduction mills at its Auckland factory to convert recyclable plastic into small granules and the company is awaiting the arrival of a new, more powerful mill, which will allow them to get usable recycled material at a much faster rate.

Vision for the future

With an impressive goal to reduce its carbon footprint by 75% globally by 2025, Marley is charting new territories in eco-

Marley’s commitment to sustainability is demonstrated in its ambitious recycling initiatives.

friendly manufacturing. By embracing renewable energy sources and waste reduction initiatives, along with energyefficient production methods and product designs aimed at minimising resource consumption, the brand’s whole ethos sings of sustainability.

Parent company Aliaxis is dedicated to innovation and invests heavily in tech

startups and collaborations that are also shaping the future of pipe production. From technologies like Aquarius Spectrum, which detects leaks in underground pipes with unparalleled accuracy, to solutions like Zypho, which harnesses heat from hot showers to conserve energy, Marley is shaping the future of water management and conservation.

As Scott reflects on Marley’s journey to date, he is optimistic about the future. “We aren’t greenwashing, we are taking great strides towards a circular economy. At the end of the day, when I go home to my sixyear-old son, I am proud to acknowledge that we are part of the solution.”

Marley has been recycling

At over 10 acres, the Manurewa facility covers an extrusions factory, a moulding factory, a crushing plant, framing area, warehousing and offices.

If your clients need any reassurance about the future of gas in New Zealand, here are some useful facts and figures to have at your fingertips.

AUTHOR:

CLARUS

Natural gas provides instant, powerful heat for over 290,000 homes, businesses and large industry in New Zealand. Its high energy content also gives it exceptional energy efficiency. Compared to coal and oil, natural gas is relatively clean burning. Gas emits around 50 percent less carbon dioxide than coal and around 30 percent less than oil.

New Zealand has been producing natural gas in Taranaki since 1959, when our largely rural nation had a population

of just 2.5 million. That figure has now doubled, industries have expanded, energy use has skyrocketed, and natural gas has remained a cornerstone of our energy supply.

How gas is used

According to the the Gas Industry Company: Around 30% goes toward electricity generation and co-generation, providing back-up electricity when renewable sources aren’t meeting peak demand Roughly 4% is used in homes for hot

water, heating and cooking for 290,000 residential customers

Gas supplies 11,000 small commercial businesses such as restaurants, where chefs use it for cooking

There are 5,000 large commercial customers, which include hotels, where gas provides hot showers for every guest, even at peak capacity

Finally, 300 large industrial gas customers use gas to power big operations, including the manufacture of steel, milk powder and fertiliser.

GREEN HYDROGEN PATH TO CLEAN ENERGY FOR AUSTRALIA

According to new research by the Australian Hydrogen Centre, green hydrogen can help deliver safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable renewable energy for Australia. The report forecasts a feasible path for scaled hydrogen distribution, with state-wide blending of 10% of green hydrogen into the gas networks by the 2030s. From 2035 onwards, it forecasts hydrogen projects ramping up section by section, reaching the point where 100% conversion to hydrogen is achieved.

If the industry could achieve the full 100% hydrogen in networks, local economies could benefit significantly, says the research report. Victoria and South Australia could add an estimated $1.53 billion in economic value each year during the construction of a full hydrogen supply network, including creating 12,509 new jobs. Once operational, the ongoing annual value to the local economies is estimated at $1.17 billion, including 6,625 new jobs. Renewable hydrogen is already successfully in use in Australia at the Hydrogen Park South Australia (HyPark SA) facility, where around 4,000

residential Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG) customers are using a gas supply comprising 10% green hydrogen blended into the natural gas. The project has won five international and Australian awards for innovation and more than

3,000 people have visited HyPark to see the technology in action.

Clarus has been working to further investigate and plan for New Zealand’s first hydrogen blend pilot using an existing natural gas network.

Renewable hydrogen is already being used by around 4,000 residential customers at the Hydrogen Park South Australia facility.

Photograph

Economic contributor

Natural gas makes ‘a significant contribution’ to our nation’s economy and energy mix, according to the International Energy Agency’s 2023 report. Overall, the oil and gas industry contributes more than $2.5 billion to the New Zealand economy each year, pays around $500 million in tax and employs 11,000 people.

Instant, precision heat

Natural gas is an excellent energy source for industrial processes that require high, precision heat. It is commonly used in the production of glass, ceramics, cement, textiles, food, and metals.

In our homes, there are also advantages to this type of heat. Gas is particularly popular as a cooking fuel, providing versatility and optimal temperature control. Plus, a gas califont provides instant hot water, with no need to worry about running out even if everyone in the family showers in the morning. Another advantage is that heating, cooking and showering with gas don’t rely on electricity. When there’s a power outage, people who live in homes with gas are still able to have hot water, warm homes and cooked meals—without relying on the grid.

Low-emissions future

Natural gas will be an essential part of the world’s transition to a net zero carbon future, because it can provide a lower emission stepping stone as industries move from oil and coal toward renewable fuels.

Security of supply

As we work towards an economy powered fully by renewable energy, natural gas can also provide a back-up energy source for times when wind and solar power can’t meet demand. It can be stored easily, delivered rapidly, and switched on and off at will, so it is an excellent interim solution to the problem of intermittent renewable electricity.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Clarus is one of the New Zealand energy companies investigating how to convert its gas pipeline to 100% renewable gas by 2050, helping Aotearoa New Zealand achieve its emissions targets. To learn more about how Clarus is supporting the transition to a net zero carbon New Zealand by 2050, visit www.clarus.co.nz/future-of-energy

The information provided here may contain references or data sourced from third-parties and we encourage readers to independently verify any critical information before making decisions based on it. For more details, please visit clarus.co.nz/content-hub

The energy, agricultural and waste sectors should collaborate to reduce New Zealand’s emissions by capturing biogas produced from organic waste, says an independent report commissioned by Clarus, Powerco, and Ecogas. By doing so, New Zealand would reduce its emissions and waste volume, and grow the percentage of renewable energy being used.

The Blunomy report formed part of a submission to MBIE on the 2023 Gas Transition Issues Paper. The report found that 4.9PJ of biogas is currently being produced in New Zealand annually, most of which is being flared as part of waste processing.

With a further 9.5PJ of untapped potential in the North Island and 9.1PJ in the South Island, up to 23.5PJ of biogas could be produced annually across New Zealand. Currently, the 290,000 homes connected to natural gas use 6.8PJ annually.

Source: GasNZ

Models available for Natural Gas or ULPG connections

Digital display for instant fault diagnosis

6-star energy rated with over heat and frost protection

Available in 16, 20, 26 and 27L capacities*

All gas Certificates of Compliance should refer to the cited version of AS/NZS 5601.1:2013 when selecting the standard that was complied with. Currently, this is the 2013 version.

WorkSafe New Zealand – Energy Safety answers gasfitter enquiries around which version of AS/NZS 5601.1 should be used for gas installations.

The correct version of AS/NZS 5601.1 to use is always the one cited in the Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations 2010 (GSMR). At present, the cited version is AS/NZS 5601.1: 2013 (unamended) Gas installations—Part 1: General installations.

The 2022 version of AS/NZS 5601.1, as amended, is not cited in the GSMR for use, meaning that gasfitters are not required to use it when undertaking gasfitting work.

All gas Certificates of Compliance should refer to the cited version of AS/NZS 5601.1:2013 when selecting the standard that was complied with. When the GSMR is next amended and a different version of AS/NZS 5601.1 is cited, whether in full or in part, Energy Safety will advise gasfitters of the changes, including working closely with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board.

This will include an email out to gasfitters registered on the Electricity and Gas High-Risk Database. WorkSafe plans to facilitate online webinars for gasfitters to outline the changes that gasfitters need to be aware of.

The GSMR can be found at www.legislation.govt.nz

ATTENTION PLUMBERS!

Flow Consulting ltd is pleased to offer BiM Modeling services to Commercial Plumbing Companies.

let us give your next project that professional edge, working as your virtual inhouse BiM modeling specialists!

Our team are all NZ qualifed, Waikato based Hydraulic services consultants and BIM modeling specialists, we undertake:

Production of As-builts in Revit or Auto Cad from your hand drawn mark ups

Shop drawings and services coordination, clash detection

We also offer coordinated full plumbing designs for your own design build projects, that require modelling in Revit with your company logo printed on plans

The insulation of the hot water distribution pipework and hot water recirculation ring mains is an extremely important component of a hot water system install and corresponding pipework, as hydraulic consultant Jordan Ross explains here.

AUTHOR: JORDAN ROSS, ENDEAVOUR CONSULTING

The hot water cylinder (HWC) outlet pipe is potentially the point of the hot water system’s greatest heat loss, as this pipe will contain the hottest water from the cylinder. Generally, the outlet is on top of the cylinder, though this is not always the case. NZBC G12/AS1 requires one metre of copper pipework between the cylinder outlet and the tempering valves. This requirement, along with the first pipe drop of 250mm creates a heat trap.

How do I meet Building Code requirements when the HWC set ups vary?

NZS 4305:1996 Energy efficiency – Domestic type hot water systems requires that hot water distribution pipes must be thermally insulated between the storage water heater and one or more of the following:

For horizontal pipe, to not less than 2m

To the end of the first continuous 2m of horizontal pipe, if the pipe has not followed a downward direction

To the first pipe drop of at least 250mm, ie, heat trap. The insulation shall extend at least 150mm past the top of the heat trap.

What does all this mean? If no heat trap is provided: for horizontal pipework, insulation is provided to not less than 2m, and to the end of the first continuous 2m of horizontal pipe if the pipe has not followed a downward direction.

My preferred option is the heat trap with insulation as I think it presents a tidier install, ease of maintenance, and prevents excessive heat losses.

What about hot water flow and return pipework on a recirculation ring main?

The hot water flow and return pipework also needs to be insulated to meet the requirements of NZS 4305.

With a hot water recirculation ring main, the hot water flow and return pipework will recirculate through the system, keeping the water hot and reducing the dead leg lengths of the hot water pipework to the fixture to ensure they are compliant with NZS 4305 and remain less than 2 litres.

Hot water flow and return pipework is more expensive to run than a conventional hot water system with dead leg pipework to the fixture. Some of the reasons for choosing a hot water recirculation ring main system might be:

The remote location of the hot water plant to the fixture locations to keep the pipework dead leg lengths short and compliant

Client expectations for hot water wait times to the fixture

Building use and space allocation for hot water plant within the building footprint—for example, a hotel.

What do heat losses within a recirculation ring main cost me?

The heat losses within the ring main can be calculated using the manufacturer’s tech data for the insulation, which will give the heat lost per metre to the corresponding pipe size and operating temperature. So, the cost of the ring main relative to the heat lost per year can be calculated by multiplying the total kilowatts lost by the cost of power.

There are some things that can be done to limit this cost: Increase the thickness of the insulation to reduce the heat lost per metre (this should be weighed up with the increase in capital cost) Put a time clock on the recirculation pump so it reduces the run time in a 24-hour- period to the times that hot water is going to be used.

Why are good installation techniques important for hot water pipework insulation?

It’s important to reduce the heat losses throughout the system, not only from a cost perspective but also so the return temperature is not such that the hot water plant is having to work too hard to maintain excessive losses from the heat lost within the recirculation ring main.

The biggest potential heat loss comes from poor installation practices. The most common areas to look out for are:

Bracketing: There are a couple of ways to tackle this. The best is to use a supporting block between the clip and the pipe. This is generally a proprietary item, and the insulation can butt up against the block and be wet sealed with glue. The second way is to have an oversized secondary layer of insulation around the clip, and the insulation on the pipe to prevent the heat escaping. I have often seen it done poorly, where the clip is taped to make it appear that the insulation carries through the clip consistently. This will lead to excessive heat loss.

Valving: Due to valving being an irregular shape to the pipe, the insulation may need to be made up of different cut pieces, and tube sizes cut specifically for the sized valve with adhesive applied to ensure the pipework and the valve are completely enveloped by the insulation.

Bends and tees: Installing insulation around bends and tees takes experience. The manufacturer gives good direction on the proper angle cuts required to make up segmented bends, tee pieces or oversized bends, tees and reducers.

Knives: A sharp knife must always be used and kept at a low angle when slitting the tube

Glue: It’s poor practice to rely on tape rather than glue. A thin layer of adhesive should be applied to the two cut edges using a short bristle brush along the entire tube length and allowed to touch dry.

KEY POINTERS

Understand the hot water system you are installing before you start – know where you will be installing the tempering valve and why, and where the insulation needs to be installed around the hot water distribution pipework. Keep the hot water distribution dead leg pipework short and compliant.

When installing a hot water ring main, install the pipework insulation to envelop the pipework completely to reduce excessive heat losses, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Bend with 45° angle

Segment Bend with 1 middle part (2 2.5°)

Segment Bend with 2 middle parts (15°)

This illustration, supplied by Allproof Industries, indicates where cuts are to be made (yellow lines) on ISO pipe.

LATEST

PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE PLUMBING, GASFITTING AND DRAINLAYING TRADES.

to simply ‘clip’ into place.

The new grate and clip system, which has been designed, developed and manufactured in-house by Allproof, uses post-consumer recycled material and is reinforced with glass fibres and UV protection, providing an environmentally conscious and highly durable solution to level threshold.

This significant update provides a premium finish through easy on-site modifications when using the GFP grate—removing delays and hold ups towards the end of a project. This improves the transition between trades and contributes to delivering the entire project on schedule.

Allproof are confident this innovative update marks a significant evolutionary step in NZ-made level threshold systems that will improve the installation process while providing a superior system.

Find out more at https://allproof.co.nz/product/ perimeter-drain

Fergus job software now integrated with Mitre 10 and Bunnings

Fergus job software for tradies now seamlessly integrates with Mitre 10 and Bunnings, alongside Fergus’ existing network of 100+ trade suppliers, including Mico, Plumbing World, Chesters and Reece.

With Fergus’ automatic supplier integrations, you can get supplier invoices and costs automatically imported into Fergus and matched to the right jobs without having to lift a finger. These supplier invoices— once confirmed by you—will also be automatically sent to your connected accounting software like Xero and MYOB to keep your accounts up to date. No manual entry needed.

With Fergus supplier integrations, you can rest easy knowing every material cost gets allocated to a job and nothing falls through the cracks. Want to see it in action? Sign up for a free 14-day trial at fergus.com/ signup or contact Fergus at hello@fergus.com

Merlin 1000V Panel from Oceania Gas Safety

The Merlin 1000V gas proving system is designed for use where gas pressure proving is required. This gas proving panel is to be used to carry out a gas proving pressure test to check for pipework integrity.

The Merlin 1000V is designed to give the user full control over the incoming gas supply with the lockable key-switch operation. In-built connectivity allows for connection to existing fire alarm and building management systems, and with its easy-touse system status panel and labelled PCB, it is easy to install and easy to operate.

The Merlin 1000V can work in conjunction with carbon dioxide, natural gas, carbon monoxide and LPG sensors. It also has a built-in ‘timeout’ facility, which will automatically shut off the gas solenoid valve at the end of a specific time period, which is adjustable.

Available from All Controls

Robertson introduces Elementi Rayne Low Pressure Hand Piece

Are you looking for a reliable and efficient hand piece suitable for low pressure applications? Check out the Rayne Low Pressure Hand Piece, a versatile and durable product that will upgrade your shower experience.

The Rayne Low Pressure Hand Piece is designed to work specifically with low pressure situations, making it suitable for homes that may not have the luxury of high water pressure.

A key feature is its reduced nozzle size, which enhances the water pressure and flow, giving you more control and precision. Another feature is its 15mm universal hose connection, allowing you to easily attach it to any standard hose—no need to worry about compatibility issues or adapters.

Buteline helping gasfitters be prepared for new regs

With the new gas regulations expected to come into effect later this year, Buteline’s RnD team has designed two new Gasline fittings to help you transition with ease from copper to Bute-Gasline, along with a califont valve fitting that makes transition from califonts to copper much easier and faster.

Key points:

1. Fast and easy connectors to connect Gasline to copper pipe

2. Quick, easy and reliable

3. Hot works permits not required

4. Perfect for retrofits

5. Compliant with new gas regulations when in force.

The GCR25 Bute-Adapt fitting is an excellent solution for gasfitters working on new builds. If a gasfitter needs to add to the existing gas system at some future point, this can be done with ease.

Makita 18V Brushless ½” Detent Pin Impact Wrench

Ideal for fittings, installation and fabrication trades, the Makita 18V Brushless ½” Detent Pin Impact Wrench (DTW1004Z) provides improved fastening control. The Impact Wrench combines extended run time and speed control for unmatched fastening performance and is powered by a Makita-built brushless motor for longer run time. 1,050Nm of fastening torque and 1,300Nm of nut busting torque.

The wrench features a 3-speed power selection switch (0-900 / 0-1,000 / 0-2,000 RPM & 0-1,800 / 0-2,000 / 0-2,400 IPM) for precise fastening control in a wide range of applications. It also features a flexible joint that isolates the battery from the grip to help reduce wear on the battery contacts.

Convenience features include twin LED job lights with preglow and afterglow functions, and a rubberised soft grip for increased comfort on the job. The wrench weighs only 3.4kg with 5.0Ah battery for reduced operator fatigue.

Greens Astro II pull-down sink mixer: now available lead-free

The Rayne Low Pressure Hand Piece is made of high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear, ensuring a long-lasting and reliable product. Now available at robertsontrade.co.nz

Established, owned and operated in New Zealand for over 135 years, Greens always endeavours to design and produce beautiful tapware that delivers quality and style to suit any customer need. The elegant, functional and stylish Astro II pull-down sink mixer has now been refreshed and renewed to be fully compliant with lead-free requirements. Astro II is fantastically versatile, designed to be suitable for every installation. Fine details, such as a smooth action ball joint in the spray head, provide excellent manoeuvrability and feel. A hard-wearing hose ensures long life and easy reach for any sized sink. With dual spray, swivel spout, and five beautiful finish options—brushed brass, chrome, matte black, brushed nickel and gun metal—Astro II is sure to be a centrepiece within any kitchen design.

Exciting new products from Rinnai

Rinnai ReadyFit Enamel Mains Pressure Indoor/ Outdoor Cylinders

Rinnai ReadyFit Enamel Mains Pressure Indoor/Outdoor Cylinders are designed with convenience, efficiency and reliability in mind.

These cylinders are pre-valved and ready to install, saving valuable time and effort during the installation process. This makes them especially suitable for high-volume specification projects, such as terraced houses and apartments, where multiple units need to be installed quickly and efficiently.

Before shipment, all cylinders undergo leak testing, providing plumbers with peace of mind during commissioning and ensuring optimal installation on-site.

Available in two capacities (135/180L) with two element options.

Find out more at rinnai.co.nz/commercial/ readyfit-cylinders

Introducing Enviroflo™ to Rinnai Hot Water Heat Pump range

The new Enviroflo™ Hot Water Heat Pump from Rinnai perfectly complements the Rinnai HydraHeat™ and provides consumers with the choice of an entry-level water heating system. This innovative system works to maximise hot water availability while using up to 70% less energy* compared to a standard electric storage tank.

The Rinnai Enviroflo™ Hot Water Heat Pump has just a 380g charge of highly efficient R290 refrigerant, which has a low GWP (Global Warming Potential) resulting in a minimal impact on the environment. In addition, the lighter weight aids quick and safe installation.

Find out more at rinnai.co.nz/water-heating/hot-water-heatpump/hot-water-heat-pump/enviroflo

*Please see technical specs for testing parameters on the Rinnai website at the link above

KemPress NZ

The new KemPress NZ Copper Press-fit connection system has been designed for New Zealand water and gas installations using NZS 3501 copper tube. Sizes DN15 to DN25 have been designed with a unique universal profile and have undergone a rigorous testing programme.

The press profile of KemPress NZ fittings means you can use press tools REMS, Rothenberger, Zupper, NovoPress, and KemPress with jaw profile VI, so your fitting warranty remains intact.

The increasing range has recently added the new swivel connectors, and more fittings have been earmarked for later this year. This includes gas connectors to transition KemPex and Rifeng MLP to copper to align with the changes to the gas installation standards AS/NZS 5601.1:2022 section 5.3.16.

When you need the highest quality press-fit connection system available in New Zealand, with a warranty of 25 years, and a design life of over 50 years, which offers you peace of mind and the simplicity that you want…

Use KemPress NZ.

www.mmbrands.co.nz

Stay one step ahead of water damage

Protect your home and the things you love from water damage with the Flo Smart Water Monitor. Leaks can happen anytime, anywhere. Reduce your risk and protect your peace of mind with this game-changing device. Installed on your home’s main water supply line, it provides unmatched leak detection for your whole home. This device constantly monitors the water flow in your home. The trademarked technology uses machine learning to better understand and analyse water usage patterns, and sends alerts if it detects any potential issues or leaks—even as small as a drop per minute. Additionally, it can automatically shut off the water to prevent minor leaks from turning into major problems.

DISCOVER A NEW WAY OF PLUMBING

Plumbing is an integral part of all new building and renovation projects. Yet, in certain applications, the installation of conventional plumbing is difficult or impractical.

Physical barriers to access and labour-intensive drilling into sub-floor or wall cavities during installation can pose a challenge and add significant time and money to a project— not to mention disruption.

Inaccessiblity of many plumbing services remain a problem throughout the life of a plumbing fixture, with pipes located behind walls or under floors making access for repairs and periodic maintenance difficult, if not impossible.

Conventional plumbing can also place constraints on design flexibility, restricting the locations in which bathrooms, kitchens, laundries and other wet areas may be installed.

Thanks to technological advances, innovative products now provide alternatives to conventional plumbing solutions. These include three products from Saniflo SFA:

1. Macerator pumps enable the installation of plumbed facilities in locations below or too far removed from the main drain line to facilitate adequate drainage. While normal toilets flush into a waste line, with the contents falling into the main drain line, toilets fitted with a macerator pump do not rely on gravity. Instead, waste is liquefied by rapidly rotating blades, then pumped through a small diameter pressure pipe connected to the main drain line.

Ideal for domestic and commercial toilets, particularly in childcare services, end-of-trip facilities, office toilets and accessible bathrooms.

2. Greywater pumps are suitable for residential or commerical renovation and extension projects where additional water fixtures are desired. Compact but high-powered pumps push wastewater through small diameter pressure pipes, enabling the installation of plumbing below, or far from, the main drain line.

Beneficial in commercial and hospitality environments with heavy water use, including laundries, cafes and restaurants.

3. Lifting stations provide a reliable, high performance means of discharging black and grey wastewater. When attached to fixtures that drain to a point below the sewer line, lifting stations elevate and evacuate wastewater to the nearest drainage point on the main drain line.

Suitable for residential and commercial environments, including apartments, offices, remote accommodation, and even offshore oilrigs.

Three Saniflo SFA products to benefit your next plumbing project.

Saniflo SFA’s Sanicubic Lifting Station is the perfect solution to issues caused by drainage points below the main drain line.

The Saniflo SFA Sanispeed Grey Water Pump is a small-bore grey water pump designed for commercial facilities.

The high-capacity Saniplus Macerator enables the installation of a full bathroom.

Aymroo manufactures an extensive range of both moulded and fabricated DWV fittings to suit all your specialised large diameter PVC plumbing needs. For more information, Call 0800 88 99 14 or email orders@aqualine.co.nz

BUSINESS TRAINING

HELPING YOUR BUSINESS THRIVE

A new online course from Master Plumbers is teaching plumbers the essentials to business success.

By setting aside just one hour a week over three weeks, plumbing business owners can gain a solid understanding of the elements that drive a successful business. These include having a credible business strategy and a workable business plan.

The new Essentials and Fundamentals of Business webinar series is presented by internationally regarded practitioner and trainer Professor Piet Beukman, who has 45 years’ experience in the field of engineering, engineering business management, technology management and industry training.

Piet has developed a unique training style that combines theory, practical examples and case studies in a relaxed and friendly learning environment.

This learning opportunity is part of a new Behind the Tools business training series from Master Plumbers.

Discover more and register your interest in the course at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/events

Course presenter Professor Piet Beukman.

Book your place on the new Essentials and Fundamentals of Business webinar series.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS Business exit planning:

There are four common stages to prioritise when planning for a successful exit from your business—and early preparation is vital.

AUTHOR: MICHAEL HUNT, CHIEF BUSINESS ADVISOR, HALO TRADE GROUP

There is no formula or magic metric that can define the ‘perfect time’ to begin planning to exit your business. Whether you woke up today and decided it’s time to sell your business or you’ve been considering it for a decade, you’ll have many decisions to make, and each decision opens the door to several others.

Selling your business is a significant transaction, yet founderowned businesses are often unprepared when considering exiting or are approached by buyers. Preparing to exit involves a series of choices and assessments, and it’s a process that benefits from ample time. Early preparation is crucial, as it’s the foundation for a successful sale process with many moving parts.

As you plan for the transition, there will be numerous decisions to make, and these decisions will lead to others. While every individual journey is unique, there are four common stages to prioritise when planning for a successful exit:

1. Get honest about your business.

To create a solid transition plan, you need a clear understanding of where your business stands now and what it’s worth.

How much is my business worth today?

How do I compare to my competitors?

Am I making the right investments in equipment and people?

To answer these questions, you must analyse your financial metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs), conduct a business valuation and benchmark performance with financial modelling.

This gives you the opportunity to see how you stack up in your industry now, and where you could be in the future.

2. Know your options for exit.

It’s a simple question with a not-so-simple answer: Who will buy your business? Traditional answers are family members or competitors, but there are other options you may have never considered.

Types of buyers:

Most buyers can be classified as either Strategic or Financial buyers. Strategic buyers typically buy 100% of your business and assume all responsibility.

Examples include:

Family members – There are companies with great stories about long-term family ownership.

Outside party – This could include competitors, suppliers and even customers.

Employees – Transitioning to employees is appealing to owners who want to take care of their people.

Financial buyers are groups such as:

Private equity groups – These are firms that raise funds, invest in companies and then exit.

Family offices – These entities operate similar to a private equity group but are unique in that they are established solely to manage a family’s wealth.

EMOTIONAL IMPACTS

While your experience will be unique to you alone, common feelings during the sale process include guilt, worry, fear, regret, and relief.

A high percentage of business owners who sold their businesses profoundly regretted selling within a year. Clarifying your intentions and expectations for the sale early on can help you make informed decisions and reduce the risk of unexpected emotional reactions.

3. Create a plan for selling your business.

Due diligence extends to both the buyer and seller in any transaction, and there are plenty of considerations, including quality of earnings, taxes and working capital. The selling process generally includes the following steps:

Non-disclosure agreement

Indication of interest

Letter of intent

Offer to purchase agreement.

4. Don’t forget about yourself and your future.

Once your sale is through and you’re on the other side, the final question is: What’s next?

Only you can decide on your next journey. However, I would suggest, before contemplating or planning an exit from your business, you engage a professional wealth planner to assist you in your future financial plan.

Financial planning can help you develop a clear picture of your financial situation in order to better focus on your goals. A good financial plan considers your current and future situation from a variety of perspectives, including:

Estate planning

Insurance planning

Cashflow planning

Investment portfolio.

“The best business you can have is the one you can sell tomorrow.”

MICHAEL HUNT Halo Trade Group

Successful exit strategies for business owners happen when they seek professional help that provides insight and expertise to guide them through the complex process of selling a business. Professional advisors can help you maximise the value of your business.

How and when you consider exiting your business will, in the end, depend on your own set of goals, circumstances and ambitions. Keep in mind that it’s only right that you walk away on your own terms.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Halo Trade Group works with business owners to simplify their businesses. Halo will provide knowledge, encourage and support you while putting in place the initiatives, methods and systems your business needs to propel it forward. halotradegroup.co.nz

GALIANO KONTACT

Make a statement in your kitchen with the new Galiano Kontact® Pull-Down Sink Mixer.

A user focused design for the busy modern kitchen space for all those times when you have your hands full. Kontact® sink mixers are elegant, effortless, and practical. Choose from one of the 6 stunning finishes available in the Galiano range.

Greens Tapware - designed and engineered in NZ since 1935 – fostering the plumbing industry today for a bright future tomorrow.

UNDERSTANDING BUSINESS LOAN TYPES

It’s important to be informed about your finance options. This article outlines five key loan types available to business owners.

AUTHOR: JEMMA ROSS, SPINACH

The financial aspect of owning a business comes with an array of jargon that takes time to get familiar with. In this article, we help you demystify some terms specific to business loans to help you get the best loan terms, get funded, and get ahead.

1. Working capital loan

A working capital is a lump sum of money that keeps your cashflow moving. The amount can fluctuate within the month to help you bridge the difference between your outbound and incoming payments. A loan for this purpose may be a line of credit or overdraft facility where you only pay interest on the amount you are using. Ideally, a loan for this purpose would be no more than 5% or 10% of your turnover. Otherwise, you will never fully repay it from cashflow, and it will be expensive.

2. Asset finance

Asset finance funds the assets of the business. This may mean vehicles, equipment, plant, machinery and more. In some cases, it may be for the vehicle and all the equipment you need to put another team member on the road. It may be upgrading equipment to fulfil a new contract.

If you are taking on an asset for your business, this is the most competitive type of business loan, and you should be able to achieve good loan terms and rates because it’s secured by the asset itself.

3. Secured vs unsecured business loan

All business loans require a personal guarantee from the owners of the company. However, they might be classified as secured or unsecured, and the difference is important to understand. With a secured loan, the lender takes a security interest over your property or business assets—ie, the loan is secured against those things

(like a mortgage is secured against a property). This means the lender can offer longer terms, lower interest rates, and possibly a larger amount.

An unsecured loan means you are only offering a personal guarantee; the lender can’t register their interest against any assets. Because of the increased risk to the lender, they will offer shorter loan terms, and higher interest rates—but you will have more flexibility to buy and sell assets as needed.

Be sure to run these types of loans past your accountant to determine the best option.

4. Bridging loan

A bridging loan is so named because it bridges a gap in your finances. This is often used in home purchases — maybe you found a property you want to buy and need to complete the sale before your other property sells.

In a business context, it could be that you need to take on an upgraded asset while you repair another one for sale, or you are buying a business and waiting for an asset to sell to pay for it. Whatever the case may be, a bridging loan can be the difference between completing a transaction or missing it entirely.

5. Term loan

Earlier, we discussed a revolving credit (working capital loan) where the full amount of funds is available to you to use

and repay as needed. The alternative to this is a term loan, where you borrow a sum up front and repay it incrementally over the life of the loan, the same way you do your mortgage or car loan. You would use this type of loan when, for example:

Consolidating multiple loans into one simple repayment

Buying an asset

Taking on working capital to get through a quiet period like Christmas, or between contracts

Buying a new business.

A term loan is a broad category that can be secured or unsecured depending on the situation. It just refers to borrowing a set amount and paying it back in regular agreed-upon installments.

As you can see, there are a lot of ways to approach the funding of your business goals—and this is far from a deep dive.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

The Spinach team are specialist business loan brokers who take the time to ask the questions that uncover what type of loan would solve your requirements and then get to work to try and make that happen. If you’d like to discuss what options might be available to your business,

NZS3910 CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT MAKEOVER

Following a two-year review of New Zealand’s most used standard form construction contract, NZS3910:2023 Conditions of contract for building and civil engineering construction was published at the end of 2023.

AUTHOR: JULIA FLATTERY, PARTNER – COMMERCIAL, DUNCAN COTTERILL

The new 2023 version of NZS3910 updates the 2013 version, with the changes having a key focus on cooperation, mutual agreement and the effective management of risks between the parties.

Ten key changes

1. Role of Contract Administrator and Independent Certifier: The dual role of the Engineer to Contract has been split into two roles: the Contract Administrator and an Independent Certifier.

The Contract Administrator acts on behalf of the Principal and gives instructions to the Contractor on a day-to-day basis.

The Independent Certifier must act fairly, impartially and independently in making decisions for the parties, including valuing work and variations and granting extensions of time. The Independent Certifier is also authorised to act as agent for the Principal in receiving payment claims, issuing payment schedules and making deductions to payment schedules as notified by the Principal.

This change attempts to address the long-standing concerns with impartiality of the Engineer. However, while the intention is for the roles to be performed separately, particularly for larger complex projects, both roles can performed by the same person.

2. Limitation of liability/ fault-based indemnity: Optional limitations of liability have been added, so the maximum aggregate liability of the Contractor to the Principal is limited to the amount recorded (or the level of any insurance policy if this is greater). Fault based indemnity has been introduced so the Contractor’s indemnity for Contract Works is limited to loss suffered by the Principal that arises out of any Contractor negligence or breach of the Contract by the Contractor.

3. New Standards: The Contractor shall carry out the Contract Works with due care and diligence, in a proper and workmanlike manner with sound workmanship and materials, safely, and in accordance with good industry practice.

Where the Contractor undertakes the design of any part of the Contract Works, including the parts stated in 5.2.1, the Contractor shall be responsible for carrying out such design with reasonable skill, care, and diligence.

These revised standards incorporate several existing legal requirements in one place.

4. New process for reviewing instructions and decisions: Any party may request the Independent Certifier to review instructions by

the Contract Administrator or decisions by the Independent Certifier. A party may request further review of the decision or request a final decision. A person dissatisfied with a final decision may refer the matter to the dispute resolution process under the Contract.

5. Target price: A new target mechanism cost allows the Principal and Contractor to agree a target cost for the project early on, and any cost savings or cost overruns are shared between the parties. The Contract Price is determined in the same manner as a cost reimbursement contract price. The intention is for parties to work together to minimise cost and incentivise savings. Variations or adjustments to the Contract Price will also adjust the Target Price unless the parties agree otherwise.

6. Variations and extension of time process: Parties are urged to agree, as far as possible to variations and extensions of time but, failing agreement, the Independent Certifier decides the variation value and the extension of time. The revised NZS 3910 also sets

Parties to the new NZS3910 will need to take time and care familiarising themselves with the new clauses and the effect on their operations and any impacts on their other contracts, such as subcontracts and supply agreements.

out the factors the Independent Certifier shall have regard to in deciding an extension of time, which include the extent of delay to the critical path of the works, the impact of the Contractor’s failure to give notice, and any steps taken to mitigate the delay.

7. Amended final payment process: To reflect current practice and seek agreement to the final payment early on, Interim Final Accounts and Final Accounts have been introduced and are to be submitted before a final payment claim. The Contractor can amend the Contract Price to incorporate claims for variations or instructions occurring after Practical Completion. The Final Account is to be agreed as far as possible between the parties, or failing that decided by the Independent Certifier, and the Contractor will then submit a final payment claim.

8. Dispute resolution: The dispute resolution ‘waterfall’ process has been simplified to remove prescriptive requirements, such as the order of dispute resolution processes and mandatory timing. Parties are encouraged to negotiate the dispute before resorting to any third-party dispute resolution such as mediation or arbitration.

9. Environmental protection and management plans: The Contractor must take steps to protect the environment while carrying out the Contract Works including taking all reasonably practicable steps to ensure no act or omission causes any adverse effect on the environment. The Contractor must also comply with any relevant resource consent, district and regional plan and the RMA. The Contractor must also provide Management Plans (on top of the usual quality plan and traffic management plan) including environmental management plans, sustainability management plans and any other plans specified.

10. New Priority of contract documents: The order of priority of contract documents has been revised, with documents higher up the order prevailing in the case of determining any conflict or ambiguity. Principal documents take priority over reservations in Contractor’s documents, so simply tagging items out in a tender response is unlikely to offer clarification or protection where the core contract documents differ.

Conclusion

Parties to the new 3910 will need to take time and care familiarising themselves with the new clauses and the effect on their operations and any impacts on their other contracts, such as subcontracts and supply agreements. Overall, there are a number of new obligations on the Contractor in relation to performance of the works (many of which they may have already been performing, such as providing monthly status reports). However, the Contractor now has a starting point by which to negotiate a liability cap.

We have seen good take up of the new 3910 version since its introduction. Many of the new terms are commonly inserted into the 2013 version of 3910 but time will tell whether the intended useability and reduction in special conditions will eventuate.

NZS3910:2023 is available at www.standards.govt.nz

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Julia Flattery is an experienced construction lawyer who brings significant largeproject build expertise. She regularly drafts project specific building contracts, subcontracts, consultant appointments, warranties, performance bonds and other ancillary contract documentation; and advises head contractors, subcontractors, consultants and funders in relation to contract packages. Contact Julia on 027 567 2094; julia.flattery@duncancotterill.com

Scan the QR code to see the full range of day to day valve or contact us on 0800 WATERWARE

MARKETING ON A SHOESTRING

With many businesses feeling the heat right now, we discuss how you can maximise your marketing impact

without breaking the bank.

AUTHOR: GEORGIA GIBBONS, SIDEKIT

There’s a lot of talk about business uncertainty and during these times of cutting costs and saving money, marketing is often one of the first things to go. While traditional, big-ticket marketing may seem out of reach, there are many effective ways to propel your brand to first choice—and they are often more accessible than you may think.

If making every dollar count while still bringing in consistent business is your priority, here is our go-to process for nailing your marketing and seeing results while on a shoestring budget.

#1 Know your target audience

Define the ideal people or businesses you intend your services for. Who are they? Consider demographics like age, income, what they need, what they expect, and where they are located. Zero in on this audience, so all messaging and communication is directed to them, rather than a wide, general audience. Next, decide your marketing channels based on where your target audience is likely to be looking to find their plumbers. Is it Google or web, local directories, social media, radio, email?

If you’re involved in large commercial projects, you might position yourself as an industry leader on LinkedIn, share case

studies through Archipro and your website, and focus on building relationships through industry organisations or events. If you’re a maintenance plumber, you might be looking at Google Ads and website optimisation to target the millions of people on Google each day—and engaging with your local community to be top of mind.

#2 Define your key goal

Putting out random or reactive content with no key goal will likely leave you with unsatisfactory results. The key to successful marketing is to set clear goals that direct your efforts to the right people, at the right time. For example; get X number of bookings for X servicing in June, have X number of vans by the end of 2024, or win X project. This goal should be front of mind when crafting your key messages that underlie all your marketing. By sticking to a key message in all the branding and content you put out, you will build consistency— and consistency is key in seeing results.

#3 Promote your key message

Now you have a clear target audience, goal and key message, it is time to promote these. Content marketing is an effective way to do this on a budget. Building up your content pool through website content, email, blog articles, social media posts and Google strengthens customer trust in your brand and credibility as a business.

Content marketing is not about selling your services directly. It’s about addressing your customers’ pain points by providing helpful, valuable information that shows how you can solve these for them. For example, if their pain point is that other plumbers have failed to show up, you can provide testimonials about how reliable you are. Or, if it’s customers not knowing what size hot water cylinder to go for, you can share an education post or blog articles on your recommendations.

#4 Convert customers into your brand advocates

We all know how important word-ofmouth is for small businesses. Brand advocates replicate this by creating greater awareness and showing your business in a positive light. People remember how they are treated, so putting your focus on providing a high-quality customer experience can have them singing from the rooftops. A happy customer is one who will advocate for you through online reviews or word-of-mouth.

This is especially important nowadays. Customers want to know about a service before investing, and often rely on reviews for guidance on a business’s credibility. Encourage your customers to leave you a review through your post-service follow up process—and provide a direction or link to make it easy for them. These reviews can be shared on your website and social media to build trust and credibility.

#5 Build a community of customers

With so many options to choose from, customers have great power in who they select—and they don’t want just to be sold

to. Connecting and engaging with your audience by building a community makes them feel recognised and appreciated, and with this deeper connection comes a bigger inclination to buy from you. Community building is a form of consistent marketing to retain your customers and reduce dependency on reactive marketing. One example is a referral programme, offering an incentive such as a discount on their next service or this month’s bill when they refer a new customer.

If you’re wanting to increase your visibility in your community, consider sponsorship—whether it’s through sponsoring a local event, sports team, business or charity, hosting a fundraiser for a deserving organisation, or donating your team’s time to the community. Remember to incorporate your logo, name and contact details in these materials. Community involvement helps increase brand awareness in your area of operation and keeps your business top of mind for customers when they need your services.

marketing. Look at your data, analytics and insights on social media, Google and your website and see what resonates with your audience measured as engagement, or reaching new potential customers measured as reach. See what content or strategies are achieving the goals you set and what needs to be altered. Use this information to guide your next marketing steps by focussing on the paths that will generate the best bang for your buck.

It can seem overwhelming trying to figure out what to do and where to do it

when you have a limited budget—but any business can reap the rewards of marketing when the base of a strategy has been successfully executed.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: If you need support to get these marketing basics right or are looking for more ideas to set your business ahead of the rest, SideKit can help. Talk to us today: marketing@sidekit.nz

With a complete range of RWC BEECO Valves including RPZD backflow preventers and double check valves, and RWC dual check valves and hose connection vacuum breakers. RWC valves are the premier choice for backflow in the New Zealand plumbing marketplace.

Dismissals under 90-day trial period

With 90-day trial periods now available to employers of all sizes, make sure you comply with the legal requirements if deciding to dismiss someone, says Lisa Duston.

Real-life case study: nail gun incident leads to dismissal

An apprentice builder employed by a construction company on 15 July 2022 was dismissed on 16 August 2022. The apprentice had responded to a job ad on social media and was offered an informal work trial of a couple of days. They began working for the employer under this informal arrangement. The apprentice was subsequently provided with an employment agreement, which specified a different start date from the date the apprentice had begun working informally.

One day, the apprentice was involved in a verbal altercation while attending a job with a supervisor. The apprentice said that, shortly

after starting work, the supervisor was yelling at them. Matters escalated and the apprentice alleged the supervisor approached them in an intimidating manner, at which point the apprentice made a threatening remark. The apprentice was holding a nail gun at the time.

The employer corresponded with the apprentice following the incident and notified them of their suspension. A final letter was later sent to the apprentice advising them of their dismissal under the 90-day trial period. The Employment Relations Authority (ERA) was required to determine if the apprentice was dismissed under a valid 90-day trial period. The ERA found that the apprentice was already employed and so not considered a ‘new employee’ for the purposes of the 90-

day trial period. The ERA also found that the employer had failed to give the correct notice when terminating the employment.

The ERA determined the apprentice was unjustly dismissed and the apprentice was awarded compensation for injury to feelings and lost wages.

Employer learnings

This case demonstrates the importance of ensuring compliance with legal requirements associated with employment agreements and trial periods. Employers must ensure they obtain a signed copy of an employment agreement before an employee starts work and must adhere to proper termination processes. Master Plumbers provides guidance on compliant termination processes in the member login area at www.masterplumbers.org.nz (under Employment).

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lisa Duston from the Master Plumbers People & Culture team is available to members to discuss any employee situation. Find Lisa’s contact details in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz

Personal protective equipment

When it comes to effective PPE, it’s not just what you wear, but how you wear it, says Rebecca Moss.

When Covid-19 arrived in New Zealand, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) went from something we used only in the workplace to a household necessity—with face masks safeguarding us against unseen threats. We’d don our masks and head off to the grocery store, but were we using our PPE correctly? And was it protecting us as well as it was designed to?

While household Covid threats may have shifted, the importance of PPE in the workplace remains as critical as ever. The use of PPE may be a last line of defence within the hierarchy of controls, but it remains the most utilised risk mitigation technique.

Employers have a legal obligation to supply workers with relevant PPE. However, simply supplying equipment is not enough. PPE that is ill fitting, incorrectly used and not maintained will not protect anyone well and is a wasteful use of business resources.

Effective PPE hinges on the proficiency of those required to use it. Comprehensive training is essential if you want to empower your employees to make informed decisions about their safety. Training should include how to correctly use equipment, how to ensure a proper fit, any pre-use checks, and an understanding of its limitations. Correct storage is crucial for longevity too. A clean, dry environment will prolong useable life and help prevent contamination—for example, storing respiratory protection equipment (RPE) in an airtight container, keeping safety glasses in a pouch, or washing overalls at the end of the day.

Maintenance and care of PPE will help ensure your equipment is working as intended. This includes things like regularly changing valves and filters, checking for wear and tear, or cleaning and sanitising an item before and after use.

Specialised equipment requires specialised training. Engage expert advice from industry and manufacturers to ensure training sessions are relevant and specific.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Rebecca Moss is Health, Safety and Wellbeing Advisor at Master Plumbers and Masterlink. Members, their teams, Masterlink hosts and apprentices can call Rebecca for health and safety advice. To be connected to wellbeing support, call Rebecca on the confidential 0800 Wellbeing number, available in the member log-in at www.masterplumbers.org.nz

For more information about employer obligations around PPE supply and training, check out www.worksafe.govt.nz

www.paysauce.com/tradies

From initial injury to slow recovery, NZ Plumber follows one plumber’s experience of ACC support following an accident.

AUTHOR: JE T’AIME HAYR

An ankle injury brought Certifying Plumber and Gasfitter Fraser Dayman’s world to a painful halt at the start of 2023. “I’d rolled my ankle many times before playing football, so it was prone to injury,” says Fraser, recalling the day of the accident. “I was running alongside my youngest son while he learned to ride a bike and I rolled my ankle again. This time it tore the ligaments, which was exceptionally painful.”

Unfortunately, there was a six-week wait to see an orthopaedic surgeon and, when he did, there was more bad news to come. Whilst many injuries heal after eight weeks’ rest, scans revealed Fraser’s ankle would require surgery and he would be up for a challenging journey towards full recovery.

Months off work

There was no other option than months off work. Although Fraser had income protection insurance, his pre-existing ankle injuries from football rendered it void. As a result, he is grateful for ACC’s support in this area.

“ACC promptly provided 80 percent of my salary, which was a huge help during

HOW ACC CAN HELP AFTER AN ACCIDENT

Recovering at work after an injury can help people get better sooner. Most people with non-complex injuries, such as a sprain or strain, can recover safely at work with some temporary adjustments. If you get injured in an accident and need medical treatment, you should first seek help from a health professional, such as a GP, after-hours clinic or hospital emergency department. They can lodge a claim with ACC on your behalf. This is normally done at an appointment and must be within 12 months of the injury occurring.

ACC cover is available regardless of whether the accident happened on the job or outside of work, what you were doing, or who was at fault.

ACC helps pay for the cost of an injured person’s recovery and rehabilitation. This could include treatment, help at home and work, and support with income.

If you are injured and can’t work or perform your usual work activities, ACC will pay up to 80% of your income while you recover. This can be set up by registering for ACC’s online service ‘MyACC’.

It’s important to contact your employer to let them know you’ve been injured. Your employer can then help you to develop a recovery at work plan and support you as you recover. Staying connected to the workplace and in regular communication with your employer will help you get back to work and life sooner.

Practical resources for injured people and employers are available on ACC’s website: www.acc.co.nz

ACC support helped plumber Fraser Dayman during his months off work while recovering from ankle surgery.

the months off work for the injury, surgery and long recovery,” he says. “To make up for the missing income, we made cuts by not paying off our mortgage as fast, and my wife picked up extra hours at her advertising agency job.”

ACC also provided Fraser with a shower stool and a knee scooter to help him get around, which their two kids enjoyed while they were riding their own scooters. However, not everything ran seamlessly, with a hiccup in the approval process resulting in treatment delays.

Surgery delay

“The surgery was booked three to five months out from the initial surgeon appointment but, unfortunately, it wasn’t approved in time, which meant it got pushed back another two months,” says Fraser.

The post-surgery period was no walk in the park either. “I couldn’t put any weight on my foot for eight weeks. Then further complications arose when the stitches became infected, which added another layer of difficulty.”

Fraser admits the injury took its toll physically and mentally. He missed precious moments of running round with

“ACC promptly provided 80 percent of my salary, which was a huge help during the months off work for the injury, surgery and long recovery.”

FRASER DAYMAN

Certifying Plumber and Gasfitter

his two young boys and found it difficult sleeping with a cast and moon boot. Off work and unable to move around much at home, the days of recovery were long, and he faced moments of melancholy.

“The mental impact was boredom, which got me down at times, as I am normally very active.” To keep his mind occupied, he planned future projects on his house and started looking for a new property for his family.

Business impacts

Fraser’s stepfather Chris Chapman, who owns Nelson-based Chapmanz, which Fraser contracts to, also had to keep going as a one-man-band. The business specialises in plumbing, heating and gas services, transforming cold houses into warm, comfortable homes.

“Luckily, we were coming into spring, so many of our customers were happy to wait for their heating to be installed,” says Fraser. “But obviously, my injury meant Chris was on the tools a lot more during my time off.” His ankle may be on the mend, but Fraser isn’t out of the woods just yet. “The surgeons want to look at my other foot at some point, as I rolled my right foot while my left was recovering. I think I have just rolled them too many times in the past. The ligament gets stretched over time, making it prone to injury.”

Advice to others

Fraser’s journey is a reminder that life sometimes throws us unexpected challenges. His advice to others facing a similar situation is to prioritise their wellbeing and seek help where needed.

“You must give your body time to heal before returning to work,” he says. “I see a lot of people who continue working with injuries and it’s probably not a good thing to have the ‘she’ll be right’ attitude that’s so common. These days, I’m a firm believer that if you don’t allow your body to heal completely, you only risk making things worse in the long term.”

APPRENTICE REPRESENTATIVE GROUP

NEW APPRENTICE VOICE FOR THE INDUSTRY

Training delivery challenges were the topic of the inaugural meeting of the new Apprentice Representative Group in April.

Six apprentices are among the new Apprentice Representative Group, set up in 2024 to be the voice of apprentices in the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying industry. Chaired by Colleen Upton, general manager of Hutt Gas and Plumbing, the group met for the first time in April, on the first day of the 2024 New Zealand Plumbing Conference.

The inaugural meeting set the scene for the group, with presentations from industry leaders providing an overview of key stakeholder roles. They included Greg Wallace, chief executive of Master Plumbers and Masterlink, Aleyna Hall, chief executive of the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board, Mike Grumball, GM Assurance at construction

and infrastructure workforce development council

Waihanga Ara Rau, and Kaarin Gaukrodger, executive director of Connexis and EarnLearn Specialist Trades.

The apprentice members were then asked to share their perspectives on the most pressing challenges in the current training delivery climate.

The group will meet four times a year, with the next meeting in June. Their feedback will be channeled to Waihanga Ara Rau via the PGD Strategic Reference Group, of which Greg Wallace is chair.

Over the next few issues, we’ll introduce you to the six apprentice members of the Apprentice Representative Group and share their experiences of industry training delivery.

The apprentice members of the new Apprentice Representative Group are, from left, Brooklin Toia, George McCallum-Clark, Emma de Salis, Zack Stalker, Jack Smith, and Maria Contreras Huerta. Also on the group are Master Plumbers and Masterlink

chief executive Greg Wallace, people and culture manager Lisa Duston, and Whitehead Plumbing & Gas managing director Paul Olsen, with Colleen Upton, general manager of Hutt Gas & Plumbing as chair.

Photograph: Steve Meadows

Final year Masterlink apprentice

Maria Contreras Huerta grabs opportunity with both hands—and she’s committed to helping represent the voice of trainees in our industry.

AUTHOR: LISA ONLAND

When it comes to setting goals, fifth year plumbing, drainlaying and gasfitting apprentice Maria Contreras Huerta doesn’t muck around. “I’m a person that likes to get things done. After I complete my apprenticeship, I want to have all my exams completed. I want to get my limited electrical licence and want to do a backflow IQP course.”

And further down the line? “Owning my very own plumbing company. With this company I would give job opportunities to anyone willing to work and learn. It wouldn’t matter who they are, whether they are struggling or less fortunate.”

Maria’s focus and strong work ethic has served her well during her Masterlink placement at Morrinsville Plumbing & Gas in the Waikato region. Managing Director Dave Strong, who oversees a staff of 20 plus six other apprentices, believes she has what it takes to succeed. “I employ apprentices that I think will make good plumbers. And when Maria showed up asking for an apprenticeship, I knew she was going to be a good plumber.”

Father an inspiration

The 22-year-old credits her father for getting her interested in a career in the trades. “I would always help him do jobs around the house and that’s how I learned to use tools. He made me realise I could do anything if I set my mind to it.” She had narrowed the choice down to either building or plumbing when a plumbing placement through the Gateway Programme at Morrinsville College tipped the scales in favour of the latter.

Maria enjoys the variety of the job and the satisfaction of work done well. The knowledge gained each day builds on the next and no two days are the same. She believes the trade requires resilience and problem-solving skills and, while challenging, can lead to a great sense of accomplishment.

“The first bathroom and kitchen renovation I ever did by myself is one I’m so proud of. Don’t get me wrong, there were times where I wanted to rip my hair out and tools were flying because something wasn’t working out or I had to figure out another way to do a certain thing.”

The job has pushed Maria to put herself forward for other challenges as well. In 2022, she was one of the recipients of the Masterlink Outward Bound Scholarship and went on to complete her course at Anakiwa in the Marlborough Sounds that winter. “I saw how strong I am as an individual, mentally and physically,” she says, reflecting on her experience. “It pushed me right out of my comfort zone. In the span of two weeks, I did so many new things that I probably would never have done in my lifetime.”

Industry involvement

Maria has taken her passion for plumbing out into the wider industry. In 2021, she participated in the Wintec Regional WorldSkills Competition in Hamilton, placing second. Earlier this year, she was one of six apprentices selected for the new Apprentice Representative Group (ARG) formed by Master Plumbers to give apprentices a stronger voice about industry training challenges and provide feedback on potential solutions.

When she was invited to speak as a plumbing industry representative at a Wintec Wāhine in Trades and Engineering event in 2023, Maria found herself inspired by the stories and experiences of her fellow attendees. The pride she felt standing alongside other women in the trades encouraged her to attend several NAWIC events and become more invested in female representation in the industry.

“If some girl out there is reading this article and isn’t sure if she should do plumbing as a trade—you will grow so much as a person mentally and physically,” says Maria. “You will grow confidence in who are and what you do. Cheesy as it sounds, just do it girl! You got this!”

Maria’s goals aren’t all work related. After she finishes up her apprenticeship, she’s hoping to do some travelling before getting stuck back in—taking her parents back to Chile, her home country until the family emigrated to New Zealand when she was six. “I would take them to all the places they couldn’t see because they were too busy working to support me and my brother.”

A road trip around Aotearoa is also on the cards—something to work towards as the home stretch nears.

Maria Contreras Huerta has always wanted to be in the trades and is living the dream.

“HOW DO I BECOME A PLUMBER?”

After winning the overall Plumbing World Scholarship winner at the 2024 NZ Plumbing Awards in April, Maria was invited onto RNZ Checkpoint to tell Lisa Owen how she got started in the career she had wanted so badly since she was just 14 years old.

As a Gateway student at high school, Maria attended a trade expo and asked a man who was giving out prizes how to become a plumber. “He told me to go and knock on the door of a business, take my CV, go by myself—don’t take my parents,” she said.

In her last year of high school, rather than waiting for an apprenticeship or doing a pre-trade, she followed his recommendation. She picked Morrinsville Plumbing and Gas, as they had done some work in her house, turned up at their door in her school uniform with CV in hand... and got the job.

Turns out, her boss, Dave Strong, was the very same man who had given Maria that golden piece of advice at the trade expo!

Maria with her fellow Masterlink Outward Bound Scholarship winners in 2022.

Maria was the overall 2024 Plumbing World Scholarship winner, receiving $1,000 credit at Plumbing World plus free registration, accommodation and travel to the NZ Plumbing Conference and Awards in Wellington this April.

WANTED PARTNER AND OWNER FOR OUR BUSINESS

Our business is a team of 20, with Sol (50% partner) who runs Roofing division and two original 25% partners who are retiring. 25% to 50% shareholding available at very good entry cost and financed by the company.

Who will you be:

a qualified plumber or drainlayer likely aged 25 to 35 looking to step up into owning your own business or you could be a 1-3 person team and want to be part of something bigger and have systems and admin team to support you.

You will have:

• good competency in the trade

• an ambition to be successful and great attitude that matches

• ability to give great customer service and working with a team get work done profitably

This is a golden opportunity for the right candidate to be successful in business.

Is this you, then email Sol at s.barnes@laserplumbing.co.nz or phone 027 499 9583

A whole lot of mess, in more ways than one!

Email your photos to the Ed: bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz

Hole in the wall

Roger Bacon at Watersmart sent in these photos after kitchen cabinetry had been removed in a property. “They had tapped into the copper pipe behind the timber and fed the filter pipe through a hole in the back of the cabinet,” he says. “Not sure what the cloth was for (probably in case it dripped). For such a regulated industry, there’s a lot of cowboy stuff going on that most of us don’t even mention. Can’t for the love of me figure out why they did it like that.”

Load of rubbish

We love this one sent in by Masterlink RM Russell Walsh on a visit to the UK. “A picture of a plumber’s Transit van in London, with rubbish stacked up to the window sill. Probably not the safest to drive.”

“Yikes!”

Thanks to Thomas Wilson of Go with the Flow for sending in this photo of a valve vented underbench cylinder with the drain tapped into a copper trap.

Rural gem

Helen Mitchell of Harrison Bloy sent in this photo provided by plumber Rob Hitchcock of a vent connection to a WC discharge pipe “with a bit of extra ventilation”. “Current tenants called him to tidy it up,” says Helen.

Some like it hot

“Did wonder if I would get a hot shower at my Queenstown hotel... Surprise, surprise,” says Jamie Hubbard of Laser Plumbing Blenheim of this photo.

“Makeshift bomb”

“Went to replace faulty pressure reducing valve and noticed the temp valve + exhaust setup,” says the sender of this photo of a dodgy and potentially explosive install.

Try that for size

Town and Country Plumbing sent in this gem. “Massive lip to catch waste on.”

Hidden treasure

Thanks to John Potts of Splash Plumbing Services for sending this one in. “Got called to a leaking shower and found this beauty behind the lining resulting in the source of the leak.”

Send your dodgy photos to the Ed: bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz. The bigger the file, the larger we can show it on the page.

Introducing

The newest addition to Marley’s OPTIM ® range, Converge® is a unique PVC aerator ideal for single stack system applications.

OPTIM® PVC Combination Expansion/ Inspection Opening

Converge® aerator

Save space in service risers with integrated vent tube allowing more usable floor area

Seamless integration with other OPTIM® PVC DWV piping solutions

Less pipework means less penetrations, less time, less cost

Design flexibility a single aerator fitting offers 6 branch connection options