NZ Plumber February-March 2021

F E B R U A R Y/ M A R C H 2 0 2 1

O F F I C I A L M AGA Z I N E O F

BUSINESS GROWTH “Social media has been huge for us” – PAGE 52 ROB TEINA

BUILDING FOR CLIMATE CHANGE

New programme & industry implications – PAGE 16

PIPE SYSTEMS IN FOCUS This edition’s technical theme – PAGE 28

INSPIRING THE FUTURE How you can be a plumber role model – PAGE 80

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A few words EDITOR

Volume 73, Number 1 MAGAZINE TEAM CEO Greg Wallace EDITOR Beverly Sellers 03 543 2008 bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz PRINT Blue Star 81 The Esplanade, Petone Wellington 6141 DESIGN ICG Designer – Julian Pettitt ICG Senior Account Director – LauraGrace McFarland www.icg.co.nz SUBSCRIPTIONS 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 To order an annual subscription, go to www.masterplumbers.org.nz MAILING LIST For enquiries, or to update your details: bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz Non-Master Plumbers’ members with address detail changes should notify the PGD Board direct, giving their registration number here: registration@pgdb.co.nz TO ADVERTISE Contact Alton Anamani advertising@masterplumbers.org.nz

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letters and other material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled ‘Not for Publication’.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.

The 3 Cs Covid, climate change and the construction pipeline—all are presenting BIG issues for our industry.

As we were preparing this edition, there was a lot of media about product supply shortages for the construction industry, resulting largely from the global Covid-19 pandemic. It’s likely to stay this way for some time, causing project delays for NZ construction businesses who are experiencing longer than usual wait times for imported materials or having to substitute products and make changes to consented plans.

Meanwhile, the latest National Construction Pipeline report from MBIE predicts a downturn in residential construction activity due to Covid-19, with the first shoots of recovery in 2023 (see page 24 for a summary of the report)— although high new home consent figures and big rises in the number of jobs in the construction industry would seem to belie the forecasts.

As we all know, the construction pipeline is also being squeezed by a shortage of skilled tradespeople and it’s good to see more PGD businesses around New Zealand taking on apprentices to fill the gap—plus a new government marketing campaign to raise awareness of vocational careers (see page 14).

A recent survey of young Kiwi school kids showed that over half aspired to one of just nine career options, which has also prompted the government’s Inspiring the Future initiative, with ‘role models’ going

into schools and letting pupils guess what job they do in a fun Q&A format. Plumber and gasfitter Nikita Porthouse took part in a pilot event late last year (see page 80) and more role models are being sought— could it be you?

Climate change and construction…

Well, that’s such a big and urgent topic that it’s hard to know where to start.

Our main feature this edition (starting on page 16) is an attempt to cover some of the main issues for the industry and what’s being done through the new Building for Climate Change programme.

It includes the Master Plumbers’ response to the Climate Change Commission’s proposal that no new gas heating systems be installed in buildings after 2025.

Lastly, a big thanks to Supreme Plumbing owner Rob Teina for letting us into his business to take our cover photograph. Rob is a real ‘people person’ and uses social media to great effect in his company. Have a read of his profile on page 52 to get some ideas for your own!

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

Over to you Got feedback? A query? Or something you’d like to read about in a future edition? We welcome your emails. And remember there’s a $50 letter prize for the best we receive each edition. Email the Ed: bsellers@masterplumbers.org.nz

This publication uses vegetable based inks and environmentally responsible paper produced from Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified, Mixed Source pulp from Responsible Sources.

Paper produced using Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) and manufactured under the strict ISO14001 Environmental Management System.

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F E B R U A R Y/ M A R C H 2 0 2 1

TECHNICAL THEME:

PIPE SYSTEMS

28

Preventing pipe failures

How-to advice from Iplex

30

Is it worth the risk?

32

Cheap materials may not mean overall savings, says Dux

Buteline sees red first

16 9

16

WHAT’S UP

9

Time to uplift your licence

Do it digitally in 2021

10 12

FEATURES

16

Building for climate change

Climate change impacts & actions for the construction industry—including proposals for phasing out household gas connections

Calendar

Training & events in 2021

Updates

This edition’s industry news round-up

15

We Fundraising plumbers in the spotlight

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24

Future forecasts National Construction Pipeline predictions for the next 6 years

ON THE TOOLS

26

World-first red PB pipe from Buteline

34

Stainless reputation

26 37

Learning your ABC

Hydroflow on the different types of PEX pipe and their applications

Toolbox tips Quick workplace H&S tips for the team

Aqualine on the applications of a new stainless press system

38

Products New products & services to market

MASTER PLUMBERS

41 42 46

41

Member benefit

New Know Your Benefits video series

Bulletin All the news from Master Plumbers

Member profile NZ Plumber catches up with Colleen Upton ONZM

48

Branches & Associations

Out and about in the regions

50

Platinum Partner profile

New joint initiative from simPRO & Plumbing World

52

ON THE COVER Member profile

How Rob Teina uses social media to help business growth

56

Masterlink messages

61

New upskilling initiatives for Masterlink apprentices

Life Member profile

“Involve yourself,” says Barry Watkins

BUSINESS SMARTS

62

62

Cartels will be criminal

Law changes you should know about

64

Time to expand your team?

66

What to consider before taking on more staff

CAREER STARTERS

74

Southern legends

Meet the Southland & Otago Mac McKenzie Trust Award winners

76

Rising to the challenge

67

Why recent changes make this scheme even more useful

Currency in certainty

How a good bookkeeper can be priceless in uncertain times

AND FINALLY...

82 84

82

10 minutes with…

Rugby enthusiast Calum McNab

Dodgy plumbing This edition’s dodgy disasters

Talking to the winner of the Master Plumbers Apprentice Outward Bound Scholarship

Business loan scheme extended

74

80

Inspiring the future

Want to inspire primary pupils to be a plumber? Here’s your chance!

68

Steering the bus Is your bus filled with the right people?

69

Choices, choices With so many job options, why choose plumbing?

70

Here for your HR needs

71

Employment & wellbeing resources for Master Plumbers

Caring for the carers

Making life easier for employees who are carers

73

5 strings to safety

The strings you need on your ‘insurance parachute’

COVER STORY Supreme Plumbing owner Rob Teina uses social media to great effect to showcase his team’s work and to help with business growth. He’s also a real ‘people person’ and has been awarded for his focus on community support. Turn to page 52 to read more about Rob and why he loves everything about plumbing.

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Report CEO

CEO’S REPORT

Happy New Year and I hope you enjoyed the holiday break. I’m sure we all hope that 2021 will be a lot more normal than last year. However, as the community outbreaks in January and February show, we still need to be cautious and prepared for potential changes to Covid-19 Alert Levels at any time. This includes making sure that your business has the necessary PPE and that you continue with stringent hygiene measures and contact tracing for you and your staff.

All these things help us maintain ‘business as usual’ as far as possible—and, as we have seen recently, New Zealand businesses and the general public have also benefited from good use of the NZ Covid Tracer app with its Bluetooth functionality.

As usual, Master Plumbers have had a busy start to the year—particularly on the advocacy front. In its first draft advice report, the Climate Change Commission recommends no new gas connections for homes after 2025. We see this as incredibly short-sighted, as it precludes consumers from benefiting from hydrogen and other low carbon gases being introduced into the natural gas and LPG systems when these become available.

The media has reported on this topic as if it were a foregone conclusion but the report is just a discussion document and Master Plumbers will advocate strongly for alternative solutions.

We are also making our voice heard with regards to the lead contamination of drinking water in the two towns of Karitane and Waikouaiti. Early testing results indicate this may have come from old cast iron water supply pipes with lead joints, which would point to a concerning lack of preventative maintenance.

Master Plumbers is very clear that New Zealand needs tougher regulations to ensure our drinking water is safe for everyone, no matter where we live. Whether it’s pipe failures in Wellington city, the earlier Havelock North campylobacteria outbreak or Christchurch chlorination issues, New Zealand is not delivering what we believe to be minimum standards.

We are already engaging with the Ministry of Health and MBIE and there finally seems to be some urgency on addressing these matters.

The beginning of this year has also included a meeting with new Building and Construction Minister Poto Williams, at which we discussed our critical advocacy programme. We are aware that, whilst it is fine to inform

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the Minister of the issues, we also want to provide solutions that will benefit members, consumers and the wider industry.

There has been a lot of media concerning housing affordability in New Zealand, which stems in part from the cost of construction. We have a system of consenting and inspections that is inefficient, expensive and not suited to current market conditions. Some of our members have reported wait times of over 20 days to get a very basic pre-line inspection. If we are to reduce construction times and be more efficient, we need to address this issue, along with the shortage of overall numbers of registered tradespeople in the plumbing, gas and drainage sector.

Master Plumbers will also be engaging with the Minister and MBIE around the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act review and we are determined to see this completed in 2021.

I’m very pleased to report that the upcoming 2021 New Zealand Plumbing Conference in Blenheim is sold out.

After having to cancel last year’s conference, we are really looking forward to meeting all our members, Business Partners and associates in person at this year’s event.

I’m sure we will be able to deliver a great, interactive conference that all will benefit from.

I am also extremely proud to see another one of our members recognised in the annual New Year Honours List and would personally like to congratulate Colleen Upton of Hutt Gas and Plumbing for her ONZM appointment in 2021. Colleen has been a long-term supporter of Master Plumbers, Masterlink and NZ Plumber and it’s hard to list all the contributions she has made by being a passionate advocate for the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying industry. Turn to page 46 for a comprehensive profile on Colleen and her achievements.

Finally, despite predictions in MBIE’s latest construction pipeline report (see page 24), Master Plumbers believe we are in for a very strong year. Data from the first quarter would suggest a robust future work forecast right through 2021. The renovation market in particular is setting records and obviously much of that sector is not included in the report, as the majority of renovation work does not require a consent.

Greg Wallace, CEO Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ

Partnering with you to solve NZ’s wastewater challenges WHY AQUATEC

• At Aquatec, we have over 30 years of experience in developing and building innovative water and wastewater solutions.

• We collaborate closely with consulting engineers, plumbing contractors and drainlayers to gain a thorough understanding of your needs, and strive for 100% perfection on every project.

OUR PRODUCTS

• Aquatec Pressure Sewer Systems have been installed at thousands of homes and industrial sites across New Zealand, purpose-built to suit each specific application.

• The Enduraplex system is approved by local councils and features a lightweight, easy to install polyethylene chamber, saving you valuable time and installation costs on site.

• Our world class patented Omni Grind Turbine (OGT) pump technology out-performs traditional progressive cavity pumps, with a market leading 20 year maintenance-free design life.

• Aquatec’s NZ-based sales, design and service team offers full on-site commissioning and stocks the complete range of pressure sewer products.

DELIVERING SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES

• Christchurch City Council approved supplier, providing pressure sewer systems for subdivisions in the Canterbury region • Beach Rd sewer project, servicing 130 lots to support Kaikoura District Council’s earthquake recovery with FRP pump chambers custom-engineered to withstand seismic conditions • Quadplex pressure sewer system complete with emergency storage vessel designed and installed for an aged care village in Napier • Blenheim North West Sewerage Upgrade, incorporating four fibreglass pump stations up to 6.6 metres deep.

T 0800 756 543 E info@aquatecenviro.com > aquatecenviro.com Head Office - 52 Orbell Street, Christchurch, NZ 8023

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What’s up

You can use the PGDB app to show clients your ‘virtual’ card—no more physical card needed.

TIME TO UPLIFT YOUR VIRTUAL LICENCE RENEWED YOUR 2021-2022 LICENCE YET? NOW’S THE TIME TO GET IT DONE.

When you uplift your practising licence for the 2021-2022 licensing year, you will no longer need to experience the time delays and postal issues associated with the current approach of carrying a plastic card with you.

For the new licensing year, which starts 1 April, the PGDB will provide you with a ‘virtual card’, viewable to clients and inspectors on the PGDB licensing app. If you haven’t got the app, make sure you download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

When you require copies of your licence for compliance-related systems and processes, you will also have the ability to

download a time-stamped PDF. This can be done from the licensing app, or at the tradelogin on the Board’s website.

Get in touch with the PGDB licensing team at licensing@pgdb.co.nz if you have any questions.

Note: Having a traditional physical card is still an option but will now carry an additional cost ($4.50+GST ) for printing and postage of the card at relicensing time.

Find details of how to download the PGDB app at www.pgdb.co.nz/trade/licensing/licensing-app

10 CALENDAR 12 UPDATES 15 WE nzplumber

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What's up CALENDAR

Training & Events Dates to mark on your industry calendar for 2021.

10-11 MAR

‘Debt Collection with Rapid Results’ Training Course ONLINE (2 HALF DAYS) masterplumbers.org.nz/training

Photograph: Messe Frankfurt GmbH / Pietro Sutera

22-26 MAR

24-26 MAR

ISH digital ONLINE ish.messefrankfurt.com

2021 New Zealand Plumbing Conference BLENHEIM

29-30 MAR

Downstream 2021 LOWER HUTT nzdownstream.co.nz

plumbingconference.org.nz

Image courtesy of Hydroflow

03 MAY

ETCO Associated Tradesperson Course* HAMILTON

02 AUG

portal.etco.co.nz/courses-list

1-3 SEPT

ETCO Associated Tradesperson Course* TAURANGA

5&6 AUG

portal.etco.co.nz/courses-list

HASANZ Conference 2021 WELLINGTON www.hasanz.org.nz/page-conference

20 SEPT

ETCO Associated Tradesperson Course* HAMILTON

2021 Water NZ Backflow Conference LOWER HUTT waternz.org.nz/BackflowConference

3-4 NOV

BuildNZ AUCKLAND buildnz.com

portal.etco.co.nz/courses-list

*20% DISCOUNT FOR MEMBERS OF MASTER PLUMBERS

For all Master Plumbers 2021 course dates and venues, go to www.masterplumbers.org.nz/training

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CONNECTING KIWI MATES WITH KIWI MADE.

As we all return to business as usual, buying Kiwi-made will continue to be a vital part of the recovery.

We are proud to make our Aqualine traps, flanges and trays right here in NZ, so you can be sure that choosing the best is doing a world of good.

THIS EDITION’S NEWS ROUND-UP FOR OUR INDUSTRY.

Covid-19 affecting construction product supply Interviewed on Radio New Zealand’s Morning Report in February about the impact the global Covid-19 pandemic was having on building supplies, Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace said a perfect storm had been created by a unique set of circumstances. These included some suppliers reducing forward orders when Covid-19 hit, with a downturn predicted; time delays in plumbing products coming in from overseas; congestion at the Ports of Auckland; and an unexpected spike in home renovations. Wallace told reporter Nicholas Pointon that the renovation market had grown an estimated 40%, with people deciding to spend money on doing up their kitchens and bathrooms rather than move house in a high property market.

Product delays and substitutions could slow down project timelines, causing headaches for

plumbers and gasfitters, he said, and the worst may not yet be over.

According to NZPM CEO Rob Kidd, Plumbing World have been focused over the past six months on minimising the disturbance in their supply chain as a result of container shortages and shipping delays from around the world. “We are working with all our suppliers to try and minimise any disruption, but there are likely to be more short-term delays over the coming months,” he said in early February.

“This is very much a New Zealand Inc and global problem and, while it’s affecting other sectors in NZ more than plumbing, we unfortunately are not immune from it. It’s very important that you plan and order ahead as much as possible to help reduce the impact on your own businesses.”

NZ HOUSING STATS­– QUICK FACTS Since 1981, the NZ population increased by almost 2 million, to reach a usually resident population of just over 5 million, as at 30 June 2020.

The number of private occupied dwellings increased by an average 1.3% per year between 2013 and 2018, compared with an annual average of 0.9% for the seven years from 2006 to 2013.

However, population growth between 2013 and 2018 outstripped growth in the number of private occupied dwellings.

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At the 2018 Census, there were over 1.8 million dwellings. Of these, just under 1.7 million were privately occupied, housing around 4.3 million people.

Around one third of NZ homes have been built in the last 20 years.

A third of houses now have four or more bedrooms compared with onefifth in 1991.

Around 40% of all new dwellings consented since mid-2019 were multi-unit.

House prices have been rising at a faster rate than wages over the past five years. The Auckland median house sales price in mid-2020 was about 11.5 times the median household income.

1 in 3 NZ houses have tap water that is too hot in their bathrooms.

NZ’s largely inadequate housing stock contributes to greater energy inputs for heating and cooling.

These stats are taken from Housing in Aotearoa 2020, published in December by Stats NZ.

What’s up INDUSTRY NEWS

POST-COVID CONSTRUCTION WORKFORCE FORECASTING From mid-2021, the construction industry can expect to see the first of 15 new regional workforce demand forecasts, identifying major construction projects earmarked for regions around NZ, and their resulting labour requirements.

The workforce forecasts will be available on a new Construction and Infrastructure Workforce Information Platform, being developed by the Building and Construction ITO (BCITO). They will forecast workforce

demand over the next 15 years and will cover the entire construction sector, including infrastructure, residential and commercial construction.

“We’ll be looking at all aspects of the construction workforce, and the skills required from the drawing board to the building site, including architects, environmental consultants, planners, engineers and surveyors,” said BCITO Interim Chief Executive Greg Durkin

Photograph courtesy of Stuff.

GASFITTER SENTENCED FOR CHRISTCHURCH EXPLOSION WorkSafe reminded all gasfitters to do things by the book following the sentencing of Certifying Gasfitter Greg Smith in December.

Smith was sentenced to 325 hours’ community service and he and his company Gas Unlimited were fined $82,500 and ordered to pay $134,300 in reparation to the victims of the gas explosion that occurred at a Christchurch property in July 2019, seriously injuring the occupants and rendering several other properties uninhabitable.

Smith had been repairing a fireplace at the home and, as part of the repairs, had removed a gas valve, used to control the flow of gas.

He advised he would return the next day to

on announcing the project. BCITO has existing experience in this area, having completed construction workforce forecasting for Otago, which identified more than 120 planned construction projects, with the new Dunedin Hospital build alone having the potential to require around 1,000 workers at its peak.

“On the back of the good work and lessons from this project, we are now able to do this analysis for all of New Zealand,” said Durkin.

Greg Smith had also pleaded guilty to a charge of carrying out negligent gasfitting at a Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) disciplinary hearing in late October. Whilst the PGDB considered Smith’s conduct to be very serious, it recognised “significant mitigation factors”, including the fact that he had immediately accepted responsibility, pleaded guilty, cooperated with the investigation, was deeply remorseful and had no previous disciplinary history.

The PGDB cancelled his gasfitting registration and licence and ordered that he could not apply to be re-registered and relicensed for 18 months. It also ordered that he pay $12,900 towards costs.

“The consequences of inattention to detail and simple mistakes can be horrific and can, apart from the terrible effects of any catastrophic explosion, have a significant impact on the ability of that practitioner to continue to operate in the trade,” said PGDB Chief Executive Martin Sawyers in December.

complete the repairs but did not disconnect the gas supply to the heater by capping the open pipe before leaving and did not tell the residents not to turn the gas supply back on.

He didn’t place any warning or notices on the gas mains advising not to turn it on and didn’t take any preventative measures, such as putting a lock on the gas mains, to ensure it could not be turned back on.

Lead in “Later that evening the gas supply was turned on to make dinner, which allowed Otago water gas to flow freely through the open supply pipe into the house,” said WorkSafe’s As NZ Plumber went to press, Manager Energy Safety Mark Wogan. investigations were underway into the “The following morning a thermostat source of lead contamination in the water in the hot water cylinder cycled, supplying the Otago towns of Waikouaiti generating a spark, igniting the gas and Karitane, with old lead pipework and creating the explosion.” joints being suggested as a potential Wogan said gasfitting is a profession cause. We will bring more in which customers have a lot of reliance on this topic in the and trust. “That trust needs to be honoured next edition. through the activities undertaken, and the processes in place to keep people safe.” nzplumber

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Promoting vocational education and training (VET) The advantages of apprenticeships and vocational training are being promoted in a new long-running campaign, which includes TV and social media advertising. The adverts feature people who’ve chosen the vocational route and are now doing productive work.

The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) is behind the campaign. “Our research shows that most people have heard of VET but many think of it as a lesser or limiting choice for them on their family,” said TEC Chief Executive Tim Fowler in December.

“They don’t understand the wealth of options available for both learners and employers. The campaign shows that vocational education and training gives you skills that can lead to an exciting new career direction, and many people start earning while learning.”

Uptake for vocational education and training is already on the increase, with free training for a wide range of vocations available through the Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund—and a number of New Zealanders looking to retrain towards a new career as a result of Covid-19 economic impacts.

View the accompanying website at www.vocationnation.govt.nz

Plumber and gasfitter Nikita Porthouse (and her dad!) feature in the government’s new marketing campaign.

GASFITTER AND HIS COMPANY SENTENCED FOLLOWING BOY’S DEATH Certifying Gasfitter Michael Cartwright and his company Central Plumbing Ltd were charged under the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act in January in relation to the death of a 12-year-old boy. Jesse Samuel died in 2018 as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning when using the shower at his family’s Haast holiday home. Gas had built up from a gas water heater installed in the small, unventilated bathroom unit.

His family had engaged Central Plumbing to install a gas water heater in the transportable bathroom unit in 2016.

Despite the heater clearly stating it could not be installed in a bathroom, it was installed and certified, and the need for adequate ventilation not discussed with the family.

The original heater was damaged in the winter of 2017 when the surrounding pipework froze and in 2018 a family member replaced it with a new one of the same model and in the same place. A WorkSafe investigation found the replacement water heater was not faulty and the installation of the replacement unit did not materially alter the danger.

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“Simply put, the water heater could not be safely installed inside the bathroom unit.

So it never should have been installed,” said WorkSafe’s Head of High Hazards, Energy and Public Safety, Darren Handforth.

“To make matters worse, Mr Cartwright certified the 2016 installation although he had not been on that part of the site during installation and did not inspect it or perform any tests. He did not enquire into the specifics of the work that the gasfitter had done and did not ask sufficient questions about what testing (if any) had been carried out.”

Darren Handforth said that members of the community who engage professional tradespeople to carry out gasfitting should be able to trust the work will be done properly and will be safe. “Tragically in this case the trust was broken and a family now has to mourn the loss of a loved one for the rest of their lives.”

Michael Cartwright and Central Plumbing Ltd were fined a total of $123,750 and ordered to pay reparations of $70,000 to the family.

GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR SCHOOL UPGRADES Schools around the country will be able to carry out maintenance work, such as upgrades to their stormwater drainage systems or roof and guttering replacements, with new government funding, announced in December.

“The investment is great for local tradespeople,” said PM Jacinda Ardern. “We want schools to engage local builders, plumbers, carpenters, roofers, landscapers.”

Each eligible school will receive $693 per student, up to a maximum of $400,000 and money must be spent within 24 months.

What’s up INDUSTRY NEWS

UPDATE ON EECA HOT WATER CYLINDER EFFICIENCY TESTING To help installers identify electric storage water heater models that comply with NZ Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS), EECA has now published a publicly available list of compliant models, grouped by brand, on its website at www.eeca.govt.nz (type electric storage water heaters in the Search bar).

As we reported in the last edition of NZ Plumber, EECA has expressed concern about the number of electric hot water cylinders failing energy efficiency testing and not meeting manufacturers’ claims. It is working to ensure manufacturers and importers understand and comply with regulations.

We Some things that have made us smile in the last little while.

This portrait of Gerard Barron, owner of the Common Room bar in Hastings, is among the photographs in Lee Pritchard’s fundraising book.

The Plumber Dan Duck Race, now in its fifth year, raised a record amount in 2020. Costing $10 each, 1,950 ducks were released into the Whanganui River in November, with funds raised going to family support organisation Jigsaw Whanganui.

Napier plumber Lee Pritchard is donating all profits from a book he has published to the Cranford Hospice in Hawkes Bay. The hardback book, called A Couch Series, contains 20 photographic portraits by Pritchard of local creative men—sculptors, designers, potters, musicians and the like (many of whom are clients of his and also NZ renowned artists)—sitting on their couches.

This is Lee’s second self-published book, the first being on The Cabana in Napier, NZ’s longest-running rock hotel. He’s had a passion for photography as an amateur for nearly 30 years now, and considered the portraits taken for A Couch Series to be worth sharing and presenting in his book, along with a brief bio on each creative. Lee now has plans for a 2021 book showing 21 inspirational women. A Couch Series costs $65 and is available from couchseries2020@gmail.com nzplumber

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BUILDING FOR

CLIMATE CHANGE

The building and construction sector has a major role to play in helping New Zealand reach its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050—and a new Building for Climate Change programme has been set up to provide the pathway. NZ Plumber looks at some of the key issues, what’s being done and potential implications for the plumbing and gasfitting industry.

Feature CLIMATE CHANGE

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1. Whole of life

Emissions associated with the construction materials and products across the lifecycle of a building are known as its ‘embodied carbon’.

This includes emissions from producing, transporting, constructing, replacing and disposing of materials and products.

DI d

You Kno w?

B

uildings produce greenhouse gas emissions from the moment construction begins to the time they end their useful life.

To help the building and construction sector meet New Zealand’s overall 2050 goal of net zero carbon emissions, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has set up the Building for Climate Change programme.

The first two programme frameworks were open for public feedback between August and October. The first looks at reducing carbon emissions across a building’s whole lifecycle—from production of construction materials through to end of life. The second looks at carbon emissions relating to a building’s operation, such as heating, cooling, lighting and ventilation.

A full summary of feedback received is due any day and MBIE says it received 360 responses, over half of them on behalf of organisations. Of these responses, 92% agreed that the building and construction sector needs to take action to reduce emissions, with 79% saying there are barriers that currently prevent them, or their business, from doing so.

Together, building and construction are responsible for 39% of all carbon emissions in the world, according to the World Green Building Council. Of this, operational emissions (energy to heat, cool and light buildings) account for 28%. The remaining 11% comes from ‘upfront’ carbon associated with materials and construction processes throughout the whole building lifecycle.

The construction sector in New Zealand is a dominant contributor to this country’s consumption-based greenhouse gas emissions (which takes into account greenhouse gas emissions from imported products and services), representing 16% of total emissions in 2018, according to Housing in Aotearoa 2020, published in December 2020 by Stats NZ. The trend towards larger houses in NZ increases the carbon footprint of dwellings. According to the same study as above, some standalone houses currently being designed and built in NZ can exceed their allowable carbon budget by seven to ten times. Larger houses can use more emissions due to

the amount of materials used, the type of construction, replacement and the number of people living in them.

Water New Zealand’s newly relaunched Water Efficiency and Conservation Network (WE CAN) Special Interest Group is looking for members, including plumbers. The Association’s Special Interest Groups (SIGs) give an opportunity to share knowledge, discuss issues and distribute information. Find out more at waternz.org.nz/wecan or contact katrina.guy@waternz.org.nz

Climate change is here to stay, but the window to create the best possible future for our young people, and their children’s children is closing.

VICKY ROBERTSON Chief Executive, Ministry for the Environment

ENVIRONMENT WORKSTREAM FOR CONSTRUCTION SECTOR ACCORD BRANZ Chief Executive Chelydra Percy is to head up the new environment workstream for the Construction Sector Accord (CSA)’s Construction Sector Transformation Plan.

“The workstream presents a significant opportunity to leverage great work already happening across industry and government and to identify the collective actions we can progress in this important and urgent area,” she said on her appointment in September.

Chelydra Percy will lead this workstream as part of the CSA’s Transformation Delivery Group. Other new members for this group are:

Kevin Lavery, General Manager, Sector Consulting – Society of Local Government Managers John Sneyd, General Manager, Building System Performance – MBIE Peter Murray, General Manager Major Projects and Advisory – New Zealand Infrastructure Commission Duncan Kenderdine, Executive General Manager Strategy and Development –Downer NZ. The Transformation Delivery Group is responsible for the design and delivery of the Transformation Plan’s workstreams and seeking wider support for sector change.

Find more about the Construction Sector Accord’s goals at constructionaccord.nz

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Chelydra Percy, BRANZ Chief Executive, has been appointed to lead the environment workstream for the Construction Sector Transformation Plan.

Feature CLIMATE CHANGE

The amount of embodied carbon in a new building depends on its size, along with the amount and type of materials and products used and their associated emissions.

Some factors to be considered when looking to reduce embodied carbon emissions are: Using our existing building stock efficiently and effectively

Constructing buildings to be resilient and flexible to changing user needs, avoiding emissions from future rebuilds

Ensuring performance requirements are realistic to avoid over-engineered buildings

Reducing construction waste Increasing longevity of buildings and construction materials and products

Increasing use of low-carbon construction materials and products.

What’s proposed?

MBIE is proposing to regulate the embodied carbon of buildings.

This would initially be done through mandatory reporting for building projects. The data collected would be stored in a national repository.

Once a sufficient level of sector understanding is in place, the first set of embodied carbon caps for buildings would come into force.

These caps would tighten over time, to a given schedule.

2. Day-to-day operations MBIE has set out three main objectives to increasing a building’s operational efficiency: 1. Reduce operational carbon emissions 2. Reduce water use; and 3. Improve the health and wellbeing of occupants by improving buildings’ indoor environmental qualities (IEQ).

It says these objectives can be met by:

Reducing the need for electricity, fossil fuels by: • Improving building thermal performance requirements so very little heating and cooling is needed.

• Improving building services efficiency requirements so very little energy is used for lighting, hot water, ventilation and other systems.

WHAT CAN I DO

RIGHT NOW? The Building for Climate Change programme has released the following tips to help the construction industry get ahead of the curve:

Increase your carbon literacy Develop your technical skills in these areas Start exploring and understanding the energy efficiency and carbon footprint of the buildings you help construct.

Replacing fossil fuel use with electricity or other lower-carbon energy sources

Improving the efficiency requirements of potable water systems

Setting clear requirements for the IEQ of buildings (eg, air temperature, humidity, ventilation, surface temperature, and daylight).

Alert clients to the MBIE Building for Climate Change Programme Start exploring and making use of energy and carbon modelling tools and techniques.

Consider designing out construction waste Start separating and reducing construction waste—look for opportunities for construction waste to get reused or recycled.

Have an independent assessment of the energy efficiency and/or embodied carbon in a building system’s design Consider voluntary reporting/ disclosure of the energy efficiency and carbon footprint of your projects.

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What’s proposed?

NZ CLIMATE ALREADY WARMING:

NEW REPORT

A 2020 report from the Ministry of Environment and Stats NZ confirms our climate is already warming. Results from 30 monitored sites around NZ show increasing average winter temperatures in each site. Extreme rainfall, heatwave days and dry spell days are also starting to increase and frost days to decrease in some places.

“This report points to profound changes to New Zealand’s climate, and greater impacts on our wellbeing in the future, unless there is both local and global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Ministry for the Environment

Chief Executive Vicky Robertson and Government Statistician Mark Sowden on the release of the report in October.

“Covid reminded us that large-scale disruption to our lives can be abrupt, unwanted and unforeseen, and that some people, places and sectors are likely to be disproportionately affected,” says Vicky Robertson.

“Climate change is here to stay, but the window to create the best possible future for our young people, and their children’s children is closing.”

New Zealand’s net emissions have increased by 57% from 1990 to 2018.

Read Our Atmosphere and Climate 2020 at www.mfe.govt.nz/publications/ environmental-reporting/our-atmosphere-and-climate-2020

MBIE proposes to regulate operational efficiency through the following set of requirements at the building consenting stage: An operational emissions cap per square metre per annum for buildings, which would include a: • thermal performance requirement • building services efficiency requirement • potable water use requirement • limit on the use of fossil fuels A set of measurable requirements for indoor environmental quality.

The operational emissions cap and performance requirements would be reviewed and tightened at regular intervals to reach a final cap by 2035.

Operational emissions reporting, ongoing commissioning requirements and post occupancy evaluation for completed buildings is also being considered.

The framework will apply to new buildings, including housing, communal residential, communal nonresidential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

What about existing building stock?

Buildings that currently exist are predicted to make up 65% of New Zealand’s building stock in 2050 and a similar proportion of emissions. It is proposed that changes to existing buildings will be addressed in future work by the Building for Climate Change programme.

Proposed ban on new household gas connections “short sighted”, says Master Plumbers

2021 Draft Advice for Consultation

The first official draft advice report from the independent Climate Change Commission, released in February, proposes a ban on new residential gas connections by 2025 and the phasing out of existing gas in homes by 2050.

Master Plumbers says the proposal is short-sighted, given that work is underway in Australia and New Zealand to see how carbon-free green hydrogen can be incorporated with the current gas network and appliances.

CEO Greg Wallace says the fact that existing infrastructure could be used to move to hydrogen is very appealing, but its introduction is likely to be beyond the timeframe proposed in the report.

“The Government would be advised to be patient to ensure the gas network is maintained and still available when green hydrogen is ready to hit the

market,” said Wallace in February. “If it sticks to the proposed timeframe, we run the real risk of throwing the baby out with the bathwater.”

He noted that current residential gas use accounts for just 3% of New Zealand’s total gas use and the proposed changes would also have cost implications for both current and new homeowners, with very little benefit.

“Homeowners want instant, reliable hot water and like the space and energy savings of gas continuous flow systems, which mean they don’t have to store large amounts of water in cylinders.

“Surely the right order of doing this would be providing a renewable energy source that offers these same benefits, rather than saying you can’t use gas but we don’t really have an alternative that offers the same benefits,” he said.

The draft advice report is open for feedback until 14 March at https://haveyoursay.climatecommission.govt.nz

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Feature CLIMATE CHANGE

THE CITY’S BREAKING AND EVERYBODY’S SHAKING

This article on how climate change may affect the construction industry is adapted from an award-winning essay by Hesketh Henry solicitor Lydia Sharpe.

C

limate change may be the biggest existential threat the human race has faced. While climate change will affect a wide range of entities, it will have a particular impact on the construction industry. This article analyses how climate change may affect the construction industry and considers how to avoid the worst of its potential impacts.

It is well-known that climate change will have significant, long-lasting effects

on global weather patterns. Some of these effects may be irreversible. Scientists have predicted that the global average temperature will increase by 2.9 to 3.4°C by 2100, compared to the pre-industrial period. Summers are predicted to heat up by 3-4°C; regions which currently tend to be dry or arid will likely experience a higher risk of drought, while more humid regions will have a higher risk of heavy rain and floods.

Climate change also exacerbates the intensity of severe weather such as cyclones and hurricanes, largely because of the increase in global temperatures.

Warmer temperatures mean more moisture in the air, which causes increased rainfall during hurricanes.

Although the severity of individual storms cannot be directly linked to climate change, it is clear that, overall, global warming is affecting our weather.

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Feature CLIMATE CHANGE

In addition to its impact on the weather, climate change is causing a rise in global sea-levels, which will lead to an increase in floods. Globally, the consequences of sea-level rise are significant, and it is our neighbours in the Pacific who will feel the greatest effects. This may lead to thousands of displaced people seeking refuge as their low-lying islands become inundated.

Impacts on buildings Climate change will also likely affect physical infrastructure. As heatwaves become more frequent and last longer, buildings which are not built to a standard that can adequately regulate indoor temperature may adversely affect occupants’ health. Heatwaves, like the one that caused Auckland’s drought earlier this year, can lead to soil shrinkage and subsidence, more rapid deterioration in concrete, and internal overheating of some buildings such as traditionally-constructed high-rise apartments.

Those who are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness and death include the elderly and individuals with underlying health conditions. Buildings not built to cope with increasingly extreme weather conditions—whether increased heat or increased rainfall—may offer inadequate protection to vulnerable inhabitants.

Finally, where construction crews are expected to work in increasingly hot conditions, work may need to progress slower than was once normal to avoid workers experiencing heat stroke and dehydration. This may cause delays to the construction timetables and attendant increase in costs.

Likewise, more severe and frequent cyclones or hurricanes will affect construction work. Buildings hit by these severe, more frequent storms are likely to be more damaged and more often than by previous storms. This could lead to increased costs to repair and enhanced performance requirements to resist multiple severe storms. Further, the increased frequency of floods will have a deleterious effect on buildings constructed on low-lying ground.

To mitigate these effects, future buildings may need to be constructed to withstand different types of weather conditions than those for which they are currently constructed, such as higher wind strength, higher average temperatures and increased rainfall or floods. This will affect the types of materials and building methods used.

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Implications for contracts and insurance Climate change will also affect risk and liability under construction contracts and related insurance products. Bad weather, whether extreme winds, floods or rainfall, can cause delays to construction projects if the weather is such that it is unsafe to continue work and the project cannot be reprogrammed to mitigate.

Delays, particularly if they affect critical path items, can lead to increased expenses, particularly for contractors. To mitigate their loss and avoid the imposition of liquidated damages, contractors often submit claims for extensions of time. But, although weather is specified as a ground for an extension of time under a number of NZ contracts (such as NZS 3910, 3915 and 3916), it is not clear whether delays caused by weather exacerbated by climate change can be the subject of a claim for an extension of time.

Climate change will affect risk and liability under construction contracts and related insurance products.

It is unclear to what extent insurance providers in New Zealand are considering the likely effect of climate change. But it is accepted overseas that, by mid-century, climate change will be a major driver of increased risks and losses for the insurance industry. Analysts are currently trying to recalculate their insurance models to capture the effects of climate change. But current models use data derived from previous weather events to model future weather events: because climate change is having a continued and often unpredictable effect on previous weather norms, historical data does not accurately represent future weather.

As risks related to climate change become more certain, insurance companies may respond by increasing premiums on, for example, property and contract works insurance. Alternatively, they may exclude cover for certain risks exacerbated by climate change such as severe weather or floods, or decline cover altogether in regions particularly at risk. This may make it harder for home owners, developers and contractors to obtain and/or afford insurances. This in turn may impact developers’/home owners’ ability to obtain finance for construction/renovation; from the contractor’s perspective, increases in premiums may disproportionately affect smaller construction companies.

Looking to the future Looking forward, climate change will likely require significant developments in the construction space. Although it is currently difficult to tell precisely what these developments will be, the following are some possibilities.

Consumers will almost certainly raise demands for more eco-friendly products.

One example of this is concrete, the production method of which releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Overseas, companies are seeing a gap in the market for less-carbonintensive options, including pozzolans and other natural concrete alternatives.

These products are often inexpensive and environmentally friendly, and the production process for pozzolans avoids the release of greenhouse gases commonly emitted during cement production. In response to customer demand, a likely growing area for the construction industry lies in developing more eco-friendly building products and methods.

As new, environmentally-friendly building products and methods are developed, the regulatory and legal regime will also need to develop with them. It is likely that MBIE will, over time, make significant changes to the Building Code to address these new building products and methods. Although this might be done through the biannual Building Code update programme, it is likely that more extensive legislative reform will be needed. MBIE’s latest consultation programme, Building for Climate Change, is worth watching.

On a larger scale, it is imperative that governments continue to pursue sciencebased adaptation and mitigation efforts to tackle climate change more broadly, and this should include consultation with the construction industry as a key stakeholder.

Realistically, it is too early to forecast with any certainty what the long-term future might hold for the construction industry in dealing with the impacts of climate change. The construction industry will need to be highly responsive to events as they arise, but today we still have a chance to avert the worst effects of climate change. The industry should seize this as an opportunity for real innovation.

About the author: Lydia Sharpe is a Solicitor in the litigation team at Hesketh Henry. She has a BA/LLB(Hons) and Diploma of Languages from the University of Auckland. This article is adapted from her essay originally published by the New Zealand Society of Construction Law in respect of the Society’s Essay Prize.

INTERNAL PUSHFIT COUPLINGS Icon ‘internal’ Pushfit Couplings provide a hassle free connection solution when pipes are encased in concrete or sheared off at a wall or floor.

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Step 1 Clean the internal surface of the pipe from slurry and debris.

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Rubber sleeve with ribbed design for a watertight seal

Plastic support presses against the rubber to create a seal

The latest National Construction Pipeline report predicts a potential 31% drop in national construction value through to 2023 due to Covid-19 impacts—though there’s little sign of it right now.

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Feature CONSTRUCTION PIPELINE

T

he National Construction Pipeline report released by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) in late December forecasts a decline in construction activity as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, before starting to recover in 2023.

The report acknowledges that Covid-19 is an unprecedented event and there is still significant uncertainty around the forecasts. Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace would agree, saying it is questionable whether it’s possible to use existing data to apply in such unusual times. “The report also doesn’t reflect the thriving renovation market, as the data used is from consents,” he says.

The report predicts the biggest hit for residential construction, with the value of activity falling 43% from $23.7b in 2019 to $13.4b in 2023 as a result of an anticipated decrease in new dwelling consents—from the high of more than 37,000 in 2019, to an average of 26,800 per year for the next six years.

“Despite the forecast, demand for residential housing remains strong at the moment,” says John Sneyd, General Manager Building System Performance

at MBIE. Recent data from Stats NZ show new home consents are currently at a 46-year high.

Construction Sector Accord Transformation Director Dean Kimpton says the industry should focus on the promising signs for the future, despite current uncertainty. “Covid-19 is unlike anything we have ever experienced and we need to continue to adapt to these changing times to the best of our ability,” he says. “We have done this superbly so far by proving our resilience during the Covid-19 lockdowns.

“Residential building makes up the bulk of construction activity and is typically the hardest hit by changing economic conditions. The sector has come out of Covid-19 in a better position than expected, but this report serves as a reminder that we need to continue to plan and prepare for whatever comes our way.

“Great people innovate, create, deliver excellent services, and help drive our businesses forward.

Companies that take the time now to grow their people will be the ones that thrive in this new environment.”

STRONG GROWTH IN CONSTRUCTION: STATS NZ A temporary decline in construction activity may be around the corner but there are no signs of slowing down just yet.

Labour market statistics from the December 2020 quarter show high rises in construction jobs, with an increase of 13,200 people employed in construction services, including plumbing, over 2020, according to the household labour force survey (HLFS).

“Delays in building projects due to lockdown restrictions along with more building consents issued after the lockdown may have increased demand for workers to meet higher construction demand,” said Stats NZ labour market manager Andrew Neal in February.

The increased number of jobs in the construction industry in 2020 offset losses in other industries, such as media and tourism, resulting in overall employment similar to the previous year. This showed how jobs in New Zealand had changed in response to Covid-19 restrictions, said Neal.

ABOUT THE REPORT The National Construction Pipeline Report provides a projection of national building and construction activity for the next six years, through to 31 December 2025, based on current settings.

Commissioned by the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE), it includes national and regional breakdowns of actual and forecast residential building, non-residential building and infrastructure activity.

The Report is based on building and construction forecasting by the Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ), and Pacifecon NZ data.

Read the report in full at mbie.govt.nz

The National Construction Pipeline Report 2020 forecasts a drop in total construction value from $43.2b in 2019 to $29.7b in 2023. Residential construction value (the largest contributor to total construction), is predicted to fall from $23.7b in 2019 to $13.4b in 2023 before starting to recover.

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On the tools

TOOLBOX TIPS Brief health & safety messages for you and the team.

Hot work safety 26 TOOLBOX TIPS 28 TECHNICAL THEME: PIPE SYSTEMS

38 PRODUCTS 026

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A reminder that specific safety measures must be taken when doing hot work in domestic or commercial situations, which include keeping the area cleaned of combustible materials and keeping a hose reel or fire extinguisher within immediate reach. If any of these required measures are not taken, your insurance will not cover you in the event of personal injury or property damage that results from the hot work. Make sure you understand and follow the hot work endorsement in your insurance policy.

On the tools HEALTH & SAFETY

PLAY IT SAFE AT HEIGHTS…

Watch out for noncompliant dust masks A warning if you use P2 disposable respirators (‘dust masks’) at work to manage risks around breathing chemicals and dusts, like silica and asbestos. Covid-19 has increased demand for masks and some non-certified and inadequate RPE has entered the market. RPE that doesn’t meet approved standards may leave you unprotected and give you a false impression that you are.

Disposable respirators that cover the nose and mouth should be compliant with AS/NZS 1716:2012, and clearly labelled with the manufacturer’s name, trade name, or mark, and the filter classification ‘P1’ or ‘P2’. Equivalent international standards are: N95 masks rated compliant by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) European ‘FFP2’ masks compliant under EN149:2001 Chinese ‘KN95’ masks compliant under GB2626:2006 (2019).

A worker who was left paralysed after falling 4m from a ladder at work has been awarded more than $400,000 by his employer, rope access firm Strings Attached Ltd. The man was repairing a leaking roof at a commercial building and had to install a ladder and access hatch. The hatch was installed incorrectly and not inspected before use. In another incident, a worker at Champion Flour Milling Ltd in Christchurch was paralysed from the waist down when she fell 3.7m from an unsafe fixed platform and unsecured ladder. The platform had no guard rails or permanent access and the harness she was wearing had no rated anchor points. The company was fined $310,000 and ordered to pay reparations of $100,000.

…AND WITH GUARD RAILS

In another WorkSafe update, a worker seven weeks into his first job was left unable to return to work after losing three fingers and part of his palm while trying to clear a jam in unguarded machinery. Taranaki Sawmills Ltd was fined $231,000 and ordered to pay reparations of $43,292.

You Can Sense It: You Can Stop It

NEED HEALTH & SAFETY ADVICE?

Small to medium businesses in residential construction may be eligible for a workplace injury prevention subsidy to help pay for health and safety advice from a HASANZ-registered advisor. In this collaboration between ACC and HASANZ, ACC will contribute towards the cost of the advice, with the amount depending on the size of your business.

Find out more at www.acc.co.nz/for-business/workplacehealth-safety/residential-construction-health-and-safetyadvisory-services-subsidy

NEW HAZARD CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM

GHS 7 will become New Zealand’s official hazard classification system for chemicals from 30 April. Created by the United Nations, this international system communicates hazards on labels and safety data sheets, including the safe way to store, use and dispose of chemicals. From 30 April, the existing Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act (HSNO) hazard classification system will no longer be used. GH 7 has been adopted by more than 50 countries including all of NZ’s major trading partners.

Listen to your inner-meerkats and take action. worksafe.govt.nz/meerkats

In its new safety campaign, WorkSafe is encouraging workplaces to listen to their inner meerkat: if you sense danger, trust your instincts and take action. Free poster downloads are available at meerkats.worksafe.govt.nz

CASH BACK ON SELECTED SUPERVISOR H&S TRAINING COURSES

ACC is offering up to 50% off the Leadsafe Supervisor or Site Safe Supervisor training courses for site leaders, which start from $435. Log in or register for MyACC for Business at business.acc.co.nz/login to see the cash back amount you are eligible for.

For more information on the ACC cash back offer and participating training providers, go to www.acc.co.nz/forbusiness/workplace-health-safety/cash-back-offer-onconstruction-health-and-safety-training

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On the tools PIPE SYSTEMS

TECHNICAL THEME

PREVENTING PIPE FAILURES Save time and money by installing it right first time. Iplex has some pointers for preventing pipe and fitting failures.

THE PROBLEM: pipe/fitting failures The Iplex team sometimes gets called out to help identify and understand what may have led to a pipe/fitting failure. If the cause can’t be identified on site, the pipe and fittings are sent to the Iplex lab in Palmerston North, where the engineering team assess the components.

Often, the findings show a re-occurring theme of poor preparation and installation.

This article sets out some basic steps to help you get it right the first time— ultimately saving you time and money.

Chamfering tool.

THE SOLUTION: good preparation & installation 1. Learn It is strongly recommended that the people doing the work familiarise themselves with the instructions of the specified fittings before use. Different types of fittings will often have different assembly instructions.

2. Prepare All types of pipe/fitting connections require good preparation.

Cut the ends square if the pipe requires cutting to reduce the length. Consequence of not doing this? The end of the pipe may not fully insert or seal into the fitting.

Remove all plastic burrs and chamfer as needed using a file, rasp or a chamfering tool. Consequence of not doing this? The sharp plastic burrs may damage the seal rings when the pipe is being inserted into the fitting.

Clean the pipe ends thoroughly of any contaminants like sand, mud, stones and pipe shavings. Consequence of not doing this? These contaminants can prevent the fittings from sealing properly against the pipe.

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Filing a chamfer.

Inserting the clean pipe.

3. Installation PVC solvent cement joints: A primer like Novakey Cleaner Primer must always be used prior to applying Iplex Solvent Cement. The primer cleaner will condition the PVC to ensure the cement bond on the pipe is strong. Ensure you use the correct Novakey PVC Solvent Cement for pressure or non-pressure applications.

Rubber ring joints: It is strongly recommended that a jointing lubricant like Novalube™ (for non-potable water) or Medlube™ (for potable water) be used with rubber ring joints. This allows the pipe end to be more easily inserted into the socket or bell end containing the rubber ring.

Mains Pressure Vitreous Enamel

Compression fittings: For compression fittings it is also strongly recommended that jointing lubricants be used in the same way as explained above for rubber ring joints.

Lasting the course As pipes and fittings are typically in the ground or behind the wall for a very long time, it is important that they function well after everyone has left the job. Well installed pipe and fitting systems can cope reliably with system variations for many years—such as pressure swings between low and high use times of the day, or the occasional pressure spikes during property or street maintenance.

These situations can expose poorly prepared and installed pipe fittings to fail prematurely. The cost of rectifying the resulting damage inside a finished building or underneath a structure will far outweigh the cost of a little bit of preparation and careful installation at the outset, as detailed above.

Designed and manufactured to meet New Zealand’s Minimum Energy Performance Standards (NZMEPS).

Rheem Vitreous Enamel lined hot water cylinders provide the best resistance to a wide range of water conditions and are suitable for unequal pressure and low pressure uses. This range continues to be the most popular in the hot water storage market.

Product detail label

Inner cylinder VE

Anode Solstice zd blown insulation

Element & Thermostat Cover

Technical support Iplex have a range of easy-to-read how-to guides available online. These include: How I Install PE Pipes How I Field Test Polyethene Pressure Pipelines How I Install PVC Pipes How I Solvent Cement Joint PVC Pipes How I Field Test PVC Pipelines For technical enquiries that are a little more in depth, a friendly team of experienced territory managers and engineers are available to help.

For more information visit iplex.co.nz

Dual inlets^

TPR Valve

Inlet Plug*

TPR Insulator Kit** Includes TPR insulator, cable tie, instruction sheet & zip lock bag

*Not applicable to all models **The TPR Insulator kit is only available to models manufactured after 2 November 2020. It may also be purchased separately as a spare part, product code 319139. ^Only models with a single element have dual inlets. Models with twin elements feature a single inlet.

Visit rheem.co.nz or call 0800 657 336 nzplumber

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On the tools PIPE SYSTEMS

TECHNICAL THEME

Is it worth the risk?

Making piping system purchasing decisions on cost alone is a risky strategy. A true cost comparison should include factors such as installation time, jointing options and life span, as Dux explains.

S

pecifiers make decisions regarding products installed behind the walls of our houses every day, based on a number of factors—but increasingly cost is becoming the sole criteria. With a mad rush to get the lowest dollar per metre and/or fitting cost possible, what is the risk to our industry?

We need to look at our piping systems holistically rather than by cost alone, as the installation speed, long-term reliability and supplier reputation can outweigh the short-term cost savings, especially when the unexpected occurs. According to the PBPSA* a true cost comparison between piping systems should include installation time, jointing options, life span and Standard Dimension Ratio (SDR) rating.

Specifier considerations If we ignore cost for now, what should we look for in a system?

The answer is a technically sound material that has proven reliability, is easily installed and is backed up by a robust warranty process that actually means something. Always investigate manufacturer warranties thoroughly, and in particular the conditions on which a warranty could be deemed null and void.

Advantages of PB-1 Polybutene (PB-1) ticks all the boxes above, and with continued development has proven to be tough, flexible and able to withstand the rigours of our modern plumbing system installations and the demands placed on them. Technically, PB-1 has a number of advantages over more rigid materials.

1. Reduced water hammer and system noise – Water hammer is caused by the mass and velocity of pressurised water coming to an abrupt stop when a valve or tap is closed. This can shock the system, reverberating throughout a house and causing damage, which can result in damaged appliances if left unchecked, whilst also resulting in system noise. The

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Flexural Elasticity Modulus (MPa) Method ISO 178 PB-1

PE-X

PE-RT

PP-R

PVC-C

450

600

550-650

800

3500

Sound velocity of materials Density (g/cm3)

Elastic Modulus (MPa)

Sound Velocity (m/s)

Soft Rubber

0.90

90

320

PB-1

0.93

450

620

PE-X

0.95

600

800

CPVC

1.56

3,500

2,350

Copper

7.2

110,000

3,900

Above: As these tables show, the lower elasticity modulus and reduced wall thickness of PB-1 result in more muffled system noise than other pipework materials as water heats and cools.

lower elasticity modulus and reduced wall thickness of PB-1 results in better performance and muffled system noise than other pipework materials during both heating and cooling periods.

2. Energy efficiency – Polybutene has a high thermal insulation value compared with other materials, being 0.22W/(m.K) (Watts per metre-kelvin. This means that, during times of low use, the ambient temperature in the line will remain for a longer period.

3. Standard Dimension Ratio (SDR) – Specifiers should consider the SDR of a piping system as another measure of technical performance. SDR is a method of rating a pipe’s durability against pressure.

The SDR describes the correlation between the pipe dimension and the thickness of the pipe wall. The thinner wall SDR of PB-1 is important for the following reasons: Less material for the same pressure capability Less weight per metre of pipe Lower outside pipe diameter for the same performance Larger inside area for the same outside diameter providing: • higher flow rate at the same pressure • lower pressure loss, requiring less energy to run a system or pumps with lower capacity.

Save time, save money Specifiers should consider other technical performance measures, such as pressure loss, the risk of use of O rings and recyclability, as well as ease of installation, quality control measures and warranty processes, before selecting a system with the lowest overall risk to install—as well as being competitive from a cost-ofinstallation perspective.

In terms of ease of installation, installation time, stock availability (both supplier in-stock and availability in plumbing merchants), training and quality are just a few of the major considerations.

Installation time should consider not just the speed, but also the ease and speed with which an installer can check that the fitting has engaged with the pipe, and the ease of using the required tools. As labour is generally the highest component of a plumbing company’s expense for residential projects, saving time generally results in saving money in wages, which could be a far greater saving than material cost savings.

Whilst the cost of a system might be a factor, it is important to consider all these other elements, as the overall cost to a project or reputation could end up being much higher than any short-term savings— is it worth the risk?

DUX SECURAGOLD™ PB-1 PIPING SYSTEM Dux has been distributing SecuraGold™, a PB-1 crimp system that uses DZR brass fittings, for over 30 years.

Independent testing by Weltec proved that PB-1 was the fastest material to install, when compared with PEX and PPR. SecuraGold™ is available in four sizes. The 12mm size provides flow rates equivalent to 15mm PEX**, with the additional flexibility resulting in faster installation, fewer fittings required, along with better energy efficiency and less lag, resulting in lower water consumption.

Available at all major plumbing merchants and supported by a dedicated procurement team—who are focused on ensuring stock is always available on the shelf—the product can be easily sourced by installers when and where they need it. Established contingency plans have been tried and tested with the continuing Covid-19 impact on product availability.

The system is quick and easy to use, with a seeing eyelet to visually confirm fitting engagement, coloured end caps to quickly identify size, and crimp tools designed for use in tight spaces—with battery tools also available. The use of removable and replaceable copper crimp rings means that fittings are perpetual, whilst the end caps and crimp rings are recyclable.

When specifying a system, nobody wants to think about what happens if something goes wrong, but it does need to be a major consideration. Making the wrong choice could have a large impact on your reputation. SecuraGold™ fittings are backed by a 25-year performance warranty and QC tested in two separate locations, with 15 dimensional or physical checks performed against specification.

Manufacturing faults account for 2 in every 1,000,000 SecuraGold™ fittings produced. Every reported non-conformance is thoroughly investigated, with a comprehensive report identifying the cause of failure provided to all parties on completion of the investigation.

Installers are able to provide homeowners with a Producer Statement: a written guarantee that the product installed behind the wall is NZ Building Code compliant and has been installed by an authorised plumber.

VANTAGE The new Vantage range from Greens is suitable for all pressures and features the patented FloBOOST® and RainBoost® shower technologies to ensure a shower as perfect as a good nights sleep down to 10kPa. A donation from every sale of Greens Vantage products goes towards plumbing apprenticeship scholarships .

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

The Dux SecuraGold™ PB-1 crimp system is available in four sizes.

* Polybutene Piping Systems Association ** 12mm provides suitable flow rates for all main fixtures in a house except bath and rainhead shower.

www.greenstapware.com

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On the tools PIPE SYSTEMS

TECHNICAL THEME

BUTELINE SEES RED FIRST In a world first, Buteline have introduced EasyID™ red PB pipe to provide easy identification of hot water lines.

B

uteline have been working on an exclusive customised formulation of polybutene (PB) to introduce a EasyIDTM red version of Buteline PB pipe that helps reduce cross connection issues and allows quick and easy visual identification of hot water lines for future maintenance and renovations.

Buteline have achieved this in-house and bring the red PB pipe to market as a world first, manufacturing it in New Zealand from their Auckland facility.

Traditionally only PEX and PPR piping systems have been able to offer red pipe lines, due to the contributing factor of master batches being readily available and the plumbing standard accepting coloured pipes. This was not the case for PB, but the standard has now been reviewed and red PB accepted.

Buteline have worked hard to chemically correct and refine their custom blend, with a mix of internal and external testing and

Manufactured at the Buteline factory in Auckland, EasyID™ red PB pipe is available in 12mm, 18mm and 22mm in a variety formats: straight lengths, lay flat coils and coils.

Before release to the market, Buteline red PB pipe was fully tested in accordance with AS/NZS 2642.2 to ensure it was fit for purpose.

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correct manufacturing. Prior to release to the market, Buteline red PB pipe was fully tested in accordance with AS/NZS 2642.2 to ensure it was fit for purpose. The red PB pipe retains all the original properties and advantages of the original and widely accepted grey PB pipe.

The testing included short-term and long-term pressure testing, along with extensive thermo-cyclic testing to ensure the pipe was both compliant with the requirements of the standard and compatible with the extensive range of existing Buteline fittings.

This new red PB pipe is available in 12mm, 18mm and 22mm in a variety formats: straight lengths, lay flat coils and coils—exclusively from Buteline.

For more information, please refer to www.buteline.com/nz/buteline/pbpipe or contact 0800 BUTELINE. Ask for Buteline red PB pipe at your local quality plumbing merchant!

For Kiwi plumbers who like a clean and organised pipe out, this new red PB pipe concludes a tidy install.

On the tools PIPE SYSTEMS

TECHNICAL THEME

Typical applications for the FORZA Stainless V Press system include fluids, gases, electrical conduits, and chemical, industrial and solar installations.

Aqualine Products have recently introduced the FORZA Stainless V Press system in New Zealand. Here, they outline its features and applications.

A

qualine and FORZA Global teamed up in late 2018 with the introduction of the FORZA Pex Pipe systems and have recently expanded the range.

The FORZA Stainless V Press system is available in sizes DN15 through to DN168, with extensive applications due to a range of O-rings capable of use within heavy industry, chemical, high temperature, water or gas, in either 304L or 316L grade depending on system parameters.

There are several key features and benefits: Quick and easy to install.

No hot works permits required Extensive range WaterMark Approval AS 3688:2016, AS/ NZS 4020:2018 and AS 5200.053-2008 Long service life.

FORZA Stainless tube has a WaterMark licence/certificate and is compliant to AS

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5200.053-2008 Plumbing and drainage products – Stainless steel pipes and tubes for pressure applications and AS/NZS 4020:2018 Testing of products for use in contact with drinking water. Low carbon with a minimum molybdenum content provides improved corrosion resistance.

FORZA Stainless tubes are bright annealed, and solution heat-treated, resulting in a hygienic and durable product.

All FORZA fittings are optimally designed to ensure the most effective and consistent joint formation, achieving or exceeding

the hydraulic and structural requirements of standards. FORZA Stainless fittings up to and including 54mm have a leading lip, whereas the 76.1mm, 108mm and the 168mm oppress fittings do not.

FORZA Stainless Press fittings are available in three separate O-ring types, each designed for varying applications: EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) black O-rings, FKM-R (fluorocarbon) red O-rings and HNBR (hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber) yellow O rings.

To ensure the correct use of Forza Stainless Press tube and fittings, please confirm with FORZA Global that the tube and proposed O-ring seal materials are suitable for the application. Just some of the typical applications are listed below: Fluids (cold and hot water systems, fire and sprinkler systems, fuel, and oil) Gases (including natural gas, inert gas, fuel gas, technical gases, compressed air) Chemical installations Industrial installations (such as pump lines, brine lines, vacuum piping, oils, industrial mixtures) Solar installations Electrical conduits.

About the author: Aqualine offer an extensive range of piping solutions under one brand in New Zealand. Aqualine have an experienced team and a significant level of knowledge and support from the FORZA Global team, and will work with you to achieve the best outcomes for you and your client.

The Aqualine team will soon be embarking on a Product Showcase roadshow where FORZA Stainless V Press will be one of the products featured. For more information on FORZA Stainless V Press system, as well other piping solutions, please contact Aqualine at sales@aqualine.co.nz or 0800 889 914.

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THE ALL NEW RINNAI INFINITY® EF26 CONDENSING WATER HEATER. Saves 11% more energy* and weighs 30%** less too. *when compared to the Rinnai INFINITY A26 **when compared to the Rinnai INFINITY EF24

GULLY

BOSS NZ

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When space is an issue.

The original BossGully made by Allproof for over 10 years

LAUNDRY OUTLET BOX

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Designed to keep pipework tidy and compact.

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On the tools PIPE SYSTEMS

What is PEX pipe and the difference between A, B and C? Michael Reed of Hydroflow explains.

P

EX pipe is made from high density polyethylene (HDPE). PEX is the term for the cross-linking process that improves the chemical and temperature performance of the polymer and provides flexibility and additional strength.

PEX pipes are divided into three types: A, B and C. These letters identify the manufacturing process. They are not grades of PEX and have nothing to do with quality or performance ratings.

All PEX pipe manufactured by reputable manufacturers meets the same pressure and temperature ratings, minimum bend radius, pipe wall thickness and ID/OD dimensions.

Whether it is A, B or C, all PEX pipe must meet and be certified to the same standard.

PEX A pipe is made using peroxide called the Engel method after the inventor Tomas Engel. During the process, free radicals are created when the HDPE polymer is melted and cross-links between molecules occur at temperatures that exceed the decomposition temperature of the polymer.

Which PEX tubing to choose?

PEX-A is the most flexible of all PEX pipe types. It has little or no coil memory and gives installers the ability to repair kinks with a heat gun. PEX-A has been in use for over 50 years—longer than the other types. The lower bending radius is helpful in PEX-A (six times the OD vs eight times for PEX-B & C).

“I’ve used Tectite PEX A on a few jobs now and to be honest I wanted to hate it but I actually really like it. I will never climb under a house with a pair of crimpers again.”

ALUN THOMAS Synergy Plumbing, Auckland

TECHNICAL THEME

PEX-B has been in use for over 40 years due to its higher burst pressure and a similar or better resistance to oxidation.

However, PEX-B does have a stiffness and coil memory. Whilst there is little difference in smaller sizes such as 1/2”, larger pipe diameters, especially 1”, can be noticeably harder to bend. Any kinks made during the installation can only be repaired by installing a coupling and cannot be repaired with a heat gun as with PEX-A. PEX-A has a requirement for the degree of cross-linking to be greater than 70% and for PEX-B the requirement is greater than 65%. The chemical structure of PEX-A has a lower crystallinity due to the manufacturing method and has a lower density and strength. Hence PEX-A needs to have a higher degree of cross-linking.

PEX-A is more flexible than PEX B, but both types must be manufactured to a minimum bending radius. Both PEX-A and PEX-B must meet the same minimum performance requirements.

PEX-C is the hardest to evaluate, given the lack of testing data and publicly available information. In late 2013, a leading US manufacturer of PEX-C pipe became the subject of a class-action settlement, which indicated that its PEX tubing is prone to development of cracks in the pipe because of early oxidation. Whilst PEX-C may be suitable for hydronic and radiant heating use, it offers little practical advantage over the other two types for hot and cold water plumbing.

PEX B pipe is made using Silane or moisture cure method of cross-linking. The links between the molecules of the HDPE form after the extrusion process, using a catalyst and exposing the PEX pipe to hot water.

PEX C pipe is made using an electronic irradiation process to cross-link, known as ‘cold cross-linking’. The cross-linking of the molecules is done after the process of extrusion by exposing the pipe to electron radiation. The radiation emitted breaks the existing links between the molecules of the polymer and initiates cross-linking.

PEX-AL-PEX pipe is not pure PEX, as it has a thin layer of aluminium sandwiched by layers of PEX. This creates an oxygen barrier and helps retain its shape when bent. This type is used mainly in underfloor heating and radiator systems or gas piping.

The Tectite PEX A fittings system from Hydroflow pushes together in seconds to create a perfect joint.

About the author: Michael Reed is Technical/Export Manager at Hydroflow. A former plumber, he has been Hydroflow’s technical representative for the past 14 years. Established in 1985, Hydroflow has grown into a leading distributor in NZ, Australia and the Pacific, with key distribution hubs in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Melbourne. In addition to working with domestic and commercial plumbers, Hydroflow offers technical design, onsite product commissioning and expert plumbing system advice. Contact Hydroflow on 09 415 6151; www.hydroflow.co.nz

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On the tools PRODUCTS & SERVICES

NEW TO MARKET FOR OUR INDUSTRY. NZ’s Most Durable Polymer Test Plug Buteline’s new reusable Pro Plug (PP1520) means less waste onsite, as the plug can be used multiple times and not discarded after a single use. The plug is able to be used as part of the Buteline Plumbing System or Pexline Plumbing System. Each plug has a 1/2” BSP end and a 3/4” BSP end. Each pack contains 2 plugs with red and blue caps for easy identification of hot and cold lines.

Extended length for use in thicker wall cavities and drains outside wall.

Each plug is dual sized for testing on 15mm or 20mm wingbacks— simply reverse it!

Manufactured from strong, hightensile chemical resistant polymer.

100% NZ designed and manufactured.

Enquire at your local plumbing merchant! www.buteline.co.nz

Sealproof from Allproof The Allproof Sealproof is a 100mm drainage pipe seal ideal for water tanks and sumps. The Sealproof has been UV stabilised and can fit wall section depths up to 10mm. Made from thermoplastic rubber it provides a durable and flexible pipe seal for penetrations into water catchment services. The elasticity in the material provides a tight seal on 100mm PVC DWV pipe with a push fit and ensures water tightness against the hole in the tank or sump.

Easy to install with a Ø121mm hole saw, simply fit into place in the tank/sump then push fit pipe through the opening. www.allproof.co.nz

New to Hirepool: Stihl Terrasaw Hirepool welcomes new Terrasaw units to their hire fleet. With Hirepool’s commitment to equipment versatility and usability, equipping Kiwis with the right tool for the job starts with investing in the best new innovations. Winner of multiple National Fieldays Invention Awards, the Terrasaw is a dedicated portable power mini trencher that provides quick, easy and versatile trench digging in your backyard or worksite. The Terrasaw is suitable for a number of applications and industries, from plumbers and sparkies—to the weekend DIYer. The units are able to be transported in one hand and are perfectly suited to use in areas with limited access. The Terrasaw rapidly digs a trench 40mm wide, and up to 500mm deep, with little turf or ground disturbance, which allows for rapid back-filling and quick site clean-up. You can book Hirepool’s newest range of Terrasaw units online now, or by calling your local Hirepool rep or branch. Please note, limited quantities are available.

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NEW: Red Bute PB Pipe Buteline have introduced red PB EasyID™ pipe for quick and easy visual identification of hot water lines. PB pipe flexibility has the potential to reduce the number of fittings used and mitigates water hammer noise. Designed and manufactured by Buteline at their Auckland factory, EasyID™ red PB pipe is available in the following sizes in coils, layflat coils and lengths: BCH12: 12mm x 25m coil BCH12100: 12mm x 100m coil BCH18: 18mm x 50m coil BCH22: 22mm x 50m coil BSCH12: 5 x 12mm x 10m lengths (as layflat coil) BSCH18: 5 x 18mm x 10m lengths (as layflat coil) BSCH22: 5 x 22m x 10m lengths (as layflat coil) BLH12: 12mm x 5m lengths BLH18: 18mm x 5m lengths BLH22: 22mm x 5m lengths.

Enquire at your local plumbing merchant! www.buteline.co.nz

SOLUTIONS • BATHROOM • HEATING & COOLING • PLUMBING

ecoTEC Plus

NEW from Saniflo

Sanifast SWH190 commercial greywater pump Saniflo’s new Sanifast SWH 190 is a compact, easy-to-service commercial greywater pump designed for medium-heavy commercial use. The unit is designed to pump away wastewater from a washing machine, dishwasher and kitchen sink—and is ideal for busy commercial office kitchens.

Why choose the Sanifast SWH190 greywater pump: 10m head pressure Easy to service with clip on lid Built in high level alarm Plug & Play connectivity to optional Sani Interlock Alarm System Integrated carbon filter and anti-flood valve Can handle temperatures of up to 90 degrees Large tank capacity.

A WORLD LEADING GAS BOILER THAT STEPS UP, WHEN THE TEMPERATURES GO DOWN For over 135 years, Vaillant has been leading the way in the development and the manufacturing of heating and hot water technology.

Every home is different. But the ecoTEC plus, with its range of heating outputs from 18kW to 120kW, is so flexible it can meet the demands of a whole range of homes and different lifestyles.

That’s why it’s our flagship boiler.

Vaillants goal is outstanding performance: low energy consumption for RADIATOR hot water and SOLUTIONS central heating – and lower fuel bills for you. The ecoTEC plus is smart: when it knows you don’t need as much heating power, it can drop to using 16% of its maximum power saving on fuel and money.

Sanialarm Interlock The new Saniflo Sanialarm Interlock has 3 functions: setting off an audible alarm in the event of a high-level issue whilst simultaneously shutting off incoming water supply to prevent flooding and cutting the power supply to the dishwasher or washing machine.

Why choose the Sanialarm Interlock Alarm System: Protects against flooding Audible and visual alarm Power interlock for dishwasher or washing machine Easy, quick plug and play connectivity, no electrician required Suitable for new and existing Saniflo installations Comes with magnetic float switch & low voltage solenoid with pre wired plugs.

Its straightforward backlit display, its stainless-steel heat exchanger, its premium components, and its Quiet Mark accreditation all mean that with the ecoTEC plus ticks all the boxes.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS: • High performance, control and efficiency • Precision heating to reduce your fuel bills • Hand-built in our award-winning Derbyshire manufacturing plant

View or download product sheets and instruction files from the Saniflo Plumber Portal: www.saniflo.co.nz/cms/56/plumberportal

For further information, please feel free to call us on 0800 WATERWARE or email us at info@waterware.co.nz and we would be happy to discuss your requirements.

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Our Partners

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

GOLD PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNERS

A Group SFA Company

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KNOW YOUR BENEFITS Discover how to get the most from Master Plumbers member benefits on the website with a new video series.

Six new Know Your Benefits videos are here to help members take full advantage of the following Master Plumbers benefits: Master Plumbers logo and brand Vehicle designs and merchandise Master Plumbers Guarantee Employment agreements and HR helpline Workplace policies and HR guidance Master Plumbers health & safety app.

Master Plumbers

MEMBER BENEFIT

View all the Know your Benefits videos in the member dashboard at www.masterplumbers.org.nz and on the Master Plumbers You Tube channel at bit.ly/MPKnowYourBenefits

41 MEMBER BENEFIT 42 BULLETIN 46 MEMBER PROFILE 48 BRANCHES & ASSOCIATIONS

50 PLATINUM

PARTNER PROFILE

52 MEMBER PROFILE 56 MASTERLINK MESSAGES

Above: There are heaps of useful business resources in the member log-in area of the Master Plumbers website. Watch the six new videos to see how to use them to their full potential.

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LIFE MEMBER PROFILE nzplumber

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BRINGING YOU THIS EDITION’S UPDATES FROM MASTER PLUMBERS, INCLUDING A 2021 CALENDAR OF BRANCH & ASSOCIATION EVENTS.

Lobbying for safe drinking water As investigations were underway into the source of lead contamination of drinking water in the Otago towns of Karitane and Waikouaiti, Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace spoke on TV’s Newshub and radio’s Newstalk ZB, urging the government to prioritise safe drinking water for all New Zealanders.

The potential for the contamination to have been caused by ageing lead infrastructure pipework is particularly concerning, he said, as it would point to a lack of preventative maintenance by the local authority.

The World Health Organization deems that no level of lead exposure is safe and young children are particularly vulnerable to its toxic effects, which can lead to permanent adverse health outcomes.

Master Plumbers has been lobbying for several years now for a mandatory third-party verification scheme like Australia’s WaterMark to make sure that tapware and pipes coming into New Zealand do not leach unacceptable levels of lead into drinking water.

In New Zealand, this threshold is 10 μg/L, compared with 5 μg/L in countries such as Sweden, Denmark and Canada—and just 0.25 μg/L in the United States.

“We want the New Zealand drinking water product standard AS/NZS 4020 to be made mandatory and brought in line with the rest of the world,” says Greg Wallace, noting that Master Plumbers is currently engaging with the Ministry of Health and MBIE on this issue. We’ll bring more on this topic in the next edition.

IPLEX: DELIVERING PIPELINES TO NEW ZEALAND You may not have heard of Iplex Pipelines but, if you’ve been in the industry for a while, you’re sure to have come across Iplex products.

One of New Zealand’s best unknown brands, much of what Iplex manufactures and supplies gets covered up either below ground or behind walls. But, thanks to over 80 years of plastics innovation, industry service and technical experience, Iplex is regarded as a leading manufacturer of plastic pipeline systems.

What Iplex does This Master Plumbers Gold Business Partner develops plastic pipeline solutions for the plumbing and gas, civil, rural, energy and communications sectors at production facilities in Palmerston North, Christchurch and Ashburton. These centres are the manufacturing and distribution hubs for a wide range of PE and PVC systems for pressure and non-pressure pipelines.

Commitment to the plumbing and gas sector From reticulation of potable and non-potable water to sanitary plumbing, wastewater drainage and gas, Iplex pipes and fitting systems are used to carry vital services throughout the places we work and live.

Not only do they have a nationwide team of experienced salespeople to support merchants and their customers, but they also have friendly engineers on hand to help with those more complex technical enquiries.

Find out more at iplex.co.nz

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Master Plumbers

UPDATES

Mark your calendar now for some exciting social activities planned by nationwide Master Plumbers Branches and Associations in 2021.

Want more info about these events? Go to masterplumbers.org.nz/events

MARCH Auckland: America’s Cup Event Nelson: Lawn Bowls Tournament

JUNE

APRIL

MAY

South Canterbury: Claybird Shoot Manawatu: Go-Karting Volcanic Plateau: Golf Day

JULY

Nelson: Quiz Night South Canterbury: DB Brewery Tour Southland: Race Day Taranaki: Grand Masters Tri-Challenge

AUGUST

Waikato: Race Night

SEPTEMBER Southland: Hydrology Study Taranaki: Family Fun Day Waikato: Awards Dinner

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

Volcanic Plateau: Awards Dinner Waikato: Mental Health Evening

Auckland: Melbourne Cup Event Hawkes Bay: Christmas Function

Want to promote your regional Master Plumbers event?

Contact marketing@masterplumbers.org.nz

Meet the team...

Get to know the Master Plumbers team with our quick Q&As. 1. What does your day-to-day role entail?

A bit of everything—onboarding new members, NZ Plumber advertising and setting up training courses.

2. What’s your work background?

I held a variety of roles at ANZ bank.

3. Can you tell us a bit about you?

I was born and raised in Porirua. I’m half Samoan (Dad) and half Kiwi (Mum).

I have one sister and 17 first cousins on my Samoan side. We were all raised together and call each other siblings.

I also have an amazing 2-year-old son.

NAME: Alton

Anamani

ROLE: Professional

Development Advisor

4. What music do you like?

It depends on the mood and varies between country, R&B/hip hop, gospel, a lot of old school and the occasional podcast.

5. Do you have a favourite book or movie?

The audiobook Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins and the movie The Pianist.

6. Where’s your favourite holiday spot?

Samoa.

7. What’s your favourite food?

I have too many, but if there’s one food I could eat for any meal of the day it is oka, which is raw fish in coconut milk with diced cucumbers and tomatoes and a touch of freshly squeezed lemon juice.

8. Who particularly inspires you?

David Goggins, Muhammad Ali and Jesus.

9. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time and why?

I enjoy filling my cup by spending time with my family, boxing/gym, cooking and going for walks, but my favourite of all (other than being with my son) is diving and spearfishing. Being under the water is very therapeutic for me. It’s the only place in the world where time stops and there’s no worries whatsoever.

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FIRE COLLAR TESTING IN ACTION Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace was invited by Allproof Industries to a recent floor waste and plumbing stack passive fire testing setup in Wellington. These photographs show the rigorous testing process to ensure Allproof’s passive fire protection products do the job of restricting the spread of fire and smoke within a building in the event of a fire.

1

2 Floor waste gullies and pipes with Allproof low profile Fire Collars and Cast-in Fire Collars installed around the penetrations on the underside of the floor slab test setup.

Adam Jackson of Allproof Industries shows Greg Wallace scenarios with passive fire products on the underside (exposed side) of the slab and thermal sensor pads on the unexposed side to record thermal insulation.

3 4

Adam explains the amount of pipe required on the exposed and unexposed sides of the wall during the test.

The wall test setup and furnace are in the background.

Reviewing the thermocouple schedule for the install scenario.

6

5 Smoke escaping from uncapped pipe in the test scenario.

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Reviewing the test data on the live feed from the thermocouple pads and furnace temperatures.

Master Plumbers

UPDATES

BEST IN BRAND WINNER Congrats to the Plumb 1 team in Wellington for winning the latest $200 Best in Brand PrezzyCard prize! We love the way you’ve incorporated the Master Plumbers logo on your van.

Send us your photos!

For your chance to win, just send us a photo of how you’re using the Master Plumbers brand in your business. Email it to Cat Marshall by 19 March 2021: cmarshall@ masterplumbers.org.nz

DEBTORINFO MEMBER SAVINGS As a member of Master Plumbers, you get unlimited access to the Debtorinfo website access for $20 a month, including GST—representing a saving of over 50% on the full price.

A Master Plumbers Silver Business Partner, Debtorinfo provides a wide range of services help your business get your cashflow and compliance sorted.

Services include documentation to help with getting paid on time, debt collection, terms of trade, credit ratings, Privacy Act compliance, and health and safety.

Let’s say you need a new set of credit application forms because cheques are no longer going to be accepted. With Debtorinfo, you can get all the forms you need, personalised in your company name, specific to your trade, available 24/7.

A recent aquatherm PPR project for the Novotel Christchurch Airport.

For a free trial, get in touch with Debtorinfo at www.debtorinfo.com/#/contact

SILVER PARTNERSHIP FOR AQUATHERM NZ owned and operated for over 20 years, aquatherm New Zealand supply and support the NZ market across the plumbing, HVAC and mechanical industries, using their local industry knowledge and a can-do approach.

With aquatherm Green PPR for plumbing and Blue PPR for HVAC, Mayer stainless steel press and Cofix pipe clamps, aquatherm offer to the market a unique solution for most applications from large bore pipework down to the wingback fit out. aquatherm’s experienced technical team supports nationally comprehensive on-site installation support, installer training and registration. With a young and experienced team mix, the company

strives towards excellence in quality and service, ensuring the right product for the right application. Now, as a Master Plumbers Silver Partner, aquatherm look forward to supporting all members in 2021, offering advice and imparting knowledge when needed.

Find out more at www.aquatherm.co.nz

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, HR & technical support, plus training and member discounts—and we advocate for our members as a collective industry voice. Get in touch to discuss our two-year membership deal!

Contact 0800 502 102 membership@masterplumbers.org.nz

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Colleen Upton of Master Plumbers member company Hutt Gas and Plumbing was awarded in the 2021 New Year’s Honours List for her services to the plumbing and gasfitting industry and women.

Colleen is pictured here with her 2020 Jackson Women in Plumbing Award.

COLLEEN UPTON ONZM Colleen Upton, General Manager at Hutt Gas and Plumbing, was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2021 New Year’s Honours List for her services to the plumbing and gasfitting industry and women. NZ Plumber talks to Colleen about her 29-year career and thoughts on receiving the award.

C

olleen Upton got into the plumbing and gasfitting industry by chance when working with her electrician husband doing the accounts and bookings in their business. A job for one of the owners at Hutt Gas and Plumbing led to them asking her if she would type up their quotes, and so it began.

She did quotes, then wages, then invoicing and looked after the accounts— all on a contract basis—literally swapping buckets of paperwork. “I kid you not,” says Colleen. “I had a bucket at home and they had a bucket in the workshop. All the paperwork went into the workshop bucket, which I would pick up and then drop off the empty bucket.”

At this stage, she was working from home with three kids under four. As the hours increased she said she wanted to buy into the business and she did, becoming a Director 29 years ago.

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“I didn’t have a burning desire at that stage to work in the plumbing and gasfitting industry but I knew that I liked to work with tradespeople,” she says. “They have an earthy honesty about them, and of course it didn’t take me long to fall in love with this industry and the people that work in it.”

Colleen went on to hold a broad range of roles in the industry. These include being a Hutt Valley/Wairarapa Master Plumbers Executive Committee Member, past President and current Secretary, and a former member of the national Master Plumbers Board. She has also served on the Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers Board and helped formulate New Zealand’s new plumbing qualifications as part of the Leadership and Governance Group and Qualifications Working Group for The Skills Organisation. In 2020, she was reappointed to the Weltec Advisory Board for Plumbing, Gasfitting & Drainlaying following a previous 10-year stint.

Championing diversity Colleen is also a champion for women in the industry, saying there have been two motivating factors. “I have a granddaughter and I want her to grow up in a world where she can do and be whatever she wants, from a plumber to a prime minister, without having to take her gender into account.

I want this for my granddaughter and for everyone else’s granddaughters, daughters, sisters and mothers. For that matter, I also want our sons to have the same choices and for gender not to be an issue for them either when deciding what they want to do.”

Several years ago, Colleen was approached by a young woman who had completed a pre-trade and had been to over 25 plumbing businesses seeking an apprenticeship. “Not one of them would even agree to meet with her,” she recalls. “She was devastated. I met with her and found out how passionate she was about the industry, how well she had

Master Plumbers

MEMBER PROFILE

At a NAWIC event at Plumbing World Lower Hutt with Hutt Gas & Plumbing staff Nikita, Olivia and Amber.

Colleen with fellow Hutt Gas and Plumbing Director Scott Adin (left) and Contracts Manager Grant Jefferson with the company’s 2018 New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year trophy.

performed on block courses and that she had a dad who was a plumbing inspector.

She deserved a chance and ended up being our first female apprentice. She worked out fabulously and stayed with us for eight years until she married and started a family.

“I figured that the young women who wanted to come into our industry were just not getting the opportunities they deserved and so Hutt Gas and Plumbing became a lot more open minded when looking for the best person for the job, and realising that they might easily be female! As of this January, we have three female tradespeople and one apprentice.”

There is still a way to go, however.

“Women belong in construction—but are not always made to feel like they do. A basic thing, like toilets on site for women tradespeople would be a start—or even nongender-specific toilets. At the moment, any women working on sites generally have to go and ask for a key at the site office to use a toilet. Construction clothing is another area that needs to change, although I realise that it is an economy-of-scale problem.

Women are shaped differently to men and men’s trade pants and tops are not always comfortable for women.

“We need to become open minded to gender, to ethnicity and change. I don’t think we will ever have 50% of our workforce on the tools being women, and I’m not advocating that. I’m simply saying lets be a bit more open minded about taking more women on the tools—diversity of thought and behaviour is a strength for any business.”

Passionate about apprenticeships The big game changer is attitude, says Colleen. “I am seeing more and more

interest from my male colleagues and female colleagues about taking on female apprentices. To be fair, I’m excited about anyone wanting to take on apprentices full stop. This area of the industry is a real passion of mine: the opportunity to see young (and not so young) people start in the industry and grow in confidence and knowledge to become fully fledged tradespeople is just the most satisfying thing.”

Colleen says she is glad New Zealand has a Minister of Education who realises how smart and clever people are who make or repair things with their hands. “My hope

“We need to become open minded to gender, to ethnicity and change.”

COLLEEN UPTON General Manager, Hutt Gas and Plumbing

A champion of women in the industry, Colleen was awarded the supreme Helen Tippett Award by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) in 2019. She is currently a NAWIC Wellington chapter committee member.

for the future is that we have an education system that recognises this and that can measure it, so we see generations of potential tradespeople believe in their worth. The next year or two are going to be challenging for our apprentices and the apprenticeship system. RoVE is a moving feast and we need to make sure that we fight for a system that works for us and our industry.”

Award “a team effort” Colleen describes receiving the news of the award as a bit of an imposter syndrome moment! “In the end, awards like this reflect on a team effort,” she says. “I couldn’t belong to the committees I do without the support of my business partners at Hutt Gas and Plumbing, and my husband who spends many evenings on his own! My colleagues at Hutt Valley/Wairarapa Master Plumbers and the wider Master Plumbers family have all helped me by sharing knowledge and encouragement. I think it’s always important to remember that none of us get to where we are by ourselves.

“I absolutely thrive on the passion in this industry—the willingness to share knowledge and help each other. My parents brought our family up with the ethos of ‘service to others—put back what you take out’ and I think this has served me well in this industry.

Master Plumbers is also a great example of people putting back in to help others.

“I would love to take this opportunity to thank all those who have helped me in the industry and for the many lovely messages I received from the plumbing industry all around New Zealand on the announcement.”

Colleen will collect her ONZM Award at Government House in Wellington in May.

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Out & about in the regions With Master Plumbers branch and association social activities lining up for the year ahead, here’s a quick look back at some events to mark the end of 2020.

A new Master Plumbers Branch and Association engagement drive has resulted in each region coming up with a programme of social activities for this year (see page 43)— a great way for members to meet up, share news and enjoy good times together.

To find out what’s coming your way, go to the online calendar at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/events/calendar/

nual rs held their andining be m u Pl r te as ts nM ues The Wellingto ber, with members and g rant & Bar. em u ov ta N es R in de er n si k n di le at the Doc waterfront-sty

allace O Greg Wishap) E C s r e b et m lum Master P hes after a crickpex Valves tc A u f r o c s n n (o ly Seller ff Dawso with Geo lumber Ed Beverhristmas P C and NZ usiness Partner December.

B e in d at th Aucklan event in

Jeremy White of Apex Valves, left, with (from left) Milan Kumar from simPRO, Sam Dav Ricky Sevta from simPRO at the ies from Allproof and Business Partner event.

Rain didn’t stop play at the Volcanic Plateau President’s Dinner, held in October at the Arikikapakapa Golf Club in Rotorua, with national Master Plumbers President Jon Lewis in attendance.

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Master Plumbers

BRANCHES & ASSOCIATIONS

Canterbury Maste r Plumbers Secre Plumbers HR Man tary (and Master ag er) Lisa Du Gardner, left and Kareena Olsen atston, centre, with Sal th Plumbers end of year function, hee Canterbury Master ld in November.

tewart and Kate S ion. er iv D a n la ct A rbury fun at the Cante

tchurch ent Building) in Chris The OGB (Old Governm the Canterbury event, with the for Square was the venue n room packed to capacity. private functio

Gisborne plumbers and their partners enjoyed a dinner at The Vines in November, organised

by Plumbing World.

Master Plumbers and Masterlink team members Luke Pirie and Bob McCoy also attended. nzplumber

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Master Plumbers

PLATINUM PARTNER PROFILE

P L AT I N U M P A R T N E R S H I P

Connect materials to your jobs with simPRO and Plumbing World.

J

ob management software solution simPRO and New Zealand owned and operated plumbing supplier Plumbing World have joined forces. This new partnership will allow simPRO users to automatically sync their Plumbing World invoices and catalogues into their job management system, saving time, admin and resources. simPRO’s inventory management functionality provides plumbing businesses with greater visibility over the materials they currently have in stock and also where they are located. This means staff can easily assign items to jobs, run a stocktake, manage storage locations and generate stock reports.

“We have been using Plumbing World and simPRO for many years. This new integration will save us time and money, and in turn, help us improve our bottom line.”

NGAIRE MANSFIELD Straight Flush Plumbing

With up-to-date inventory management, businesses are able to save valuable time by avoiding last minute trips to Plumbing World through pre-allocating stock ahead of time. Staff in the field can easily add materials while on site from the simPRO Mobile app or after a job is complete to keep costing and stock levels accurate.

Enabling the Plumbing World automatic catalogue sync within simPRO keeps pricing up-to-date for accurate quotes and estimates. Catalogue items can also be grouped together according to their product line or functional type, and then assigned to a job or project with the click of a button.

Time consuming data entry can also be avoided with automatic synchronisation of Plumbing World invoices and supplier credits into simPRO. Automatically syncing Price Books and invoices from Plumbing World streamlines purchasing and inventory management, saves time and reduces user errors when ordering parts.

To learn more about the simPRO and Plumbing World integration, head to www.simprogroup.com/ nz/partners/integration-partners/plumbing-world

Field staff can easily add Plumbing World materials while on site from the simPRO Mobile app.

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We’ve got your future apprentice Need more hands?

From Northland to Southland, our pre-screened candidates are eager to join your business and start training

Upskill your people Let’s get YOUR keen labourer or office person on the tools

Masterlink can help you grow your own plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers Talk to your Regional Manager today Call us on 0800 502 102 Visit masterlink.co.nz

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Master Plumbers

MEMBER PROFILE

Rob Teina loves plumbing and meeting new people— and has married these two passions by embracing the power of social media to help grow his business.

AUTHOR: MATTHEW LOWE

R

ob Teina has become a hit on Instagram and Facebook while lifting the profile of the West Auckland-based business he started from scratch in 2015. Since then, Supreme Plumbing has grown to employ 15 people and Rob has plans for further expansion.

The 34-year-old describes himself as a “people’s person” and enjoys being able to connect with the public through social media—Supreme Plumbing has more than 5,000 followers on Instagram alone.

“I believe in doing good work, am pretty active on social media and build good relationships,” he explains. “I’m good with talking and like being front of the crowd. Social media has been huge for us. It’s a good way to showcase the good and the bad. It’s cool to put the boys on as well and showcase some of their work. Embracing social media definitely helps and has improved our business.”

Supporting the local community Rob has been asked to feature in Australian podcasts after presenters there picked up on his efforts through the internet.

He is also keen for other businesses to boost their online followings and during the peak of the Covid-19 crisis in New Zealand ran a $1,000 giveaway.

In March and April last year, Supreme Plumbing handed out $200 every day for a week to assist those who were likely to struggle during the lockdown.

“I woke up at 1.30 in the morning on the day the lockdown was about to begin with an idea that we had to give away some money to help businesses,” he says.

“We’re not millionaires but probably have more than a lot of people and I could see businesses in our community were going to be hurting because of Covid.

“People were tagging local businesses, helping build their profile and that’s what I wanted. I was in a position to do something to help and give back to people who would have struggled.”

The company ran another giveaway in the week before Christmas and handed out $1,000 every day for five days to businesses or families in need that had been nominated by members of the public.

Supreme Plumbing’s strong links to the community, volunteer work and sponsorship of local sports groups and kindergartens led to Rob winning the Pacific Enterprise Award at the SunPix Pacific Peoples Awards held in Auckland in November.

“I was very proud and humbled to win that,” he says. “I come from a giving family and we were often sponsoring things and if we had the opportunity would support charities or groups that needed it.”

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Master Plumbers

MEMBER PROFILE

The Cook Islander is married to Violet and they have two children, Remy, four, and Ivy, two—and he says “family is huge” for him.

“I have photos of them in my office above my desk and if I do not feel like going to work or am struggling, I only have to look at those pictures and it makes things easier.”

Enjoying business growth Rob began his career in plumbing after leaving school aged 17 and he started his apprenticeship when he was 20.

After more than 10 years with the same company he decided to strike out on his own and established Supreme Plumbing.

“My wife and I had just got back from Europe and I wanted to start my own thing up. We had a couple of grand in the bank, picked up a van and that was it.

“I had one job, a commercial renovation that was about a month long, and things started flowing from there.”

The company offers residential and commercial plumbing, along with drainage, gas and roofing work. Rob notes it has just enjoyed its busiest year and took on three extra plumbers in 2020.

“We were able to carry on with some work as essential workers, but we effectively lost two months because of the Covid lockdowns. However, we definitely made up for it afterwards.

“We’re seeing huge home renovations going on and it doesn’t look like business is going to be slowing down. We’ve got work booked up for the first quarter of 2021 with big developments and townhouses.”

Rob’s kids joining a toolbox meeting at Supreme Plumbing.

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Rob’s wife Violet with their children Remy and Ivy.

Developing tomorrow’s plumbers Rob also enjoys nurturing the next generation of plumbers and there are currently five apprentices at the company.

“We don’t really want the A-grade student,” he explains. “We’re quite familyorientated and we want the kid we can help out a bit more.

“The guys we want to keep around do three months to a year with us before we sign them up for an apprenticeship to make sure they’re keen and really want to do the job. We’re big on developing better people who can do quality work.”

Rob says Supreme Plumbing will continue to grow and he hopes eventually to have 20-plus staff. He has also started

up a few sister companies and is looking at other business opportunities.

“You have got to have dreams and aspirations and have something to work towards,” he says. “I set myself goals every year and believe in positive affirmation.

Loving all aspects of the job “I love the culture of the plumbing industry. I’m a people’s person and you meet so many different people—it’s amazing that I get to do this through my job. Plus, there’s the satisfaction you get from providing a service.

“I love everything about being a plumber: the business side, the physical side. It’s an amazing job and I’m very lucky.”

BE A MASTER PLUMBER

Be the best you can be - for your customers, your staff and your business.

Branding – logo and vehicle decals Fuel discounts with Mobilcard Business Partner deals exclusive to members Master Plumbers health & safety app Health & Safety resources and support Technical support from PGD experts Job leads from our Find a Plumber search tool 12 month consumer guarantee HR resources, guidelines and support Advocating for member and industry interests Networking opportunities Professional development training Latest industry news

Find out more at masterplumbers.org.nz or call 0800 502 102

MEET MASTERLINK’S NEW TRAINING MANAGER AND DISCOVER MORE ABOUT THE NEW TRAINING INITIATIVE FOR MASTERLINK APPRENTICES.

Introducing Training Manager Jason Goei Jason Goei joined Masterlink in December in the newly created role of Training Manager. Jason will be overseeing the creation, development and coordination of training resources to aid Masterlink apprentices and take them to the next level.

“My goal is to understand the learning needs of our apprentices and host businesses, so we can better prepare the future leaders of our industry through appropriate, flexible and applicable training resources,” he says.

Jason’s background is in international business, logistics and education management. Previous to his current role, he managed the Training Academy at the Building Officials Institute of New Zealand (BOINZ). In his spare time, he loves making things—whether it be fixing and rebuilding motorbikes in his garage (riding them too!) or trying out new recipes in the kitchen.

Jason is driving the development of new training resources for Masterlink apprentices.

Please get in touch with Jason if you have course topic ideas you think would benefit Masterlink apprentices, or if you’re an experienced plumber, gasfitter or drainlayer and would like to add value to the future of our industry through training: jason.goei@masterlink.co.nz 04 801 2019

MASTERLINK SPONSORING YOUNG PLUMBER OF THE YEAR 2021 After a year off due to Covid-19, it’s great to see Plumbing World’s Young Plumber of the Year competition back on the calendar in 2021! Master Plumbers and Masterlink are once again among the sponsors of this flagship event, and we encourage all our eligible apprentices to get involved (you just have to be aged 31 or under by 31 December 2021 to enter)!

This year’s competition has the biggest prize pool yet, with over $50,000 worth of prizes and priceless experiences up for grabs. Branch events kick off in June, with the National Final set for 6 October in Hamilton.

Enter now at www.youngplumbersclub.co.nz

Enter now for the 2021 Young Plumber of the Year competition, in association with Plumbing World.

CONGRATULATIONS COLLEEN! We’re so proud of Colleen Upton, GM at Masterlink host company Hutt Gas and Plumbing, for her New Year’s Honours ONZM award for services to our industry and to women—an amazing achievement and very well deserved!

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Master Plumbers

TAKING APPRENTICES TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Find out the ways Masterlink is working to give our apprentices the skills they need to be this industry’s future leaders.

Masterlink Training Days Thanks to government funding to assist employers, Masterlink Training Days will enable Masterlink apprentices to spend time learning valuable new skills free of charge.

When you hire a first-year apprentice with us, who works at least 40 hours a week, Masterlink will credit your business with eight hours to be used for training.

With this credit, you can choose to enrol your apprentice free of charge on one of our face-to-face or online courses, or upskill them internally. They can use this time to enjoy our Qualification Support courses, which will prepare them for block courses and supplement their learning goals, or talk to us about additional training such as an Elevated Work Platform course—we may be able to assist with costs for eligible apprentices.

Masterlink Trades Ready Programme Masterlink works to support the wider building and construction sector by giving our apprentices the opportunity to learn transferrable skills. Through our introductory block course, new apprentices gain skills in areas such as: First Aid Level 2 Confined Spaces & Gas Testing Hazard & Risk Management Hazardous Substances in the Workplace Asbestos Awareness Communications & Ethics.

Qualification Support & Essential Skills Courses Masterlink is currently developing a combination of online, blended and in-class learning resources to support our apprentices. The primary delivery focus is online eLearning solutions, due to the current environment of the Covid-19 pandemic. Courses include:

Technical Courses

Essential Skills

Gas Cold Water Hot Water Foul Water Drainage Regulatory Framework

Communications Ethics Invoicing Budgeting Financial Literacy Wellbeing

MASTERLINK

DON’T GET DISTRACTED! Mobile device distraction is the focus for the first quarter Masterlink apprentice appraisals. We all need to be mindful of the risks associated with using mobile devices on the worksite— particularly when operating or working in the vicinity of vehicles and equipment. If you’re on your mobile, you won’t be giving your full attention to the task at hand or any hazards around you. Check with your host company to see what policies they have around mobile use in the workplace.

Get to know our Regional Managers BOB MCCOY LOWER NORTH ISLAND REGIONAL MANAGER Based in Hawkes Bay, Bob McCoy has been Lower North Island RM for Masterlink for the past six years.

“During this time, I have had the pleasure of employing, mentoring and watching the numerous apprentices I have managed grow into successful tradespeople,” says Bob. “It is always a highlight to present them with their qualification certificates on completion of their apprenticeships.”

Bob was particularly thrilled when the first apprentice he recruited for Masterlink won the 2019 James Douglas Medallion, which is presented each year to a newly qualified plumber, gasfitter or drainlayer in recognition of excellence in their trade. “In 2020 one of my more mature apprentices was the overall top Plumbing finalist for the same award, which was an outstanding effort,” he says.

Originally from Northern Ireland, Bob completed an electronic/ mechanical apprenticeship before

Presenting Masterlink apprentices with their qualification certificates as they complete their apprenticeships is always a highlight for Bob McCoy.

becoming a police officer for 20 years, both in the UK and New Zealand, and later working in the insurance industry.

Bob is passionate about his role at Masterlink and believes that being open, honest and doing what you say you’re going to do within the agreed timeframes is key to growing strong and sustainable relationships with hosts and apprentices.

“When a business uses Masterlink as their apprentice employer provider of choice, I strive to understand their business needs to help them select apprentices most suited to our company values,” he says. nzplumber

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MASTERLINK

Masterlink milestones WELCOME

A warm welcome to new Masterlink apprentices: ■■ Henry Cooper – Titirangi Plumbing & Drainlaying, Auckland ■■ Mohammed Saheb – Progress Plumbing, Auckland ■■ Dylan Ford – Illingworth Plumbing, Auckland ■■ Keegan Eldrett – Born 2 Plumb, Auckland ■■ Eddie Magennis – Liquid Lines Plumbing, Auckland ■■ Liam Butler Quinn – Morrinsville Plumbing & Gas, Waikato ■■ Raiden Keeble-Gardiner – Morrinsville Plumbing & Gas, Waikato

■■ Nathan Smith – Laser Hamilton West, Hamilton ■■ Reid Morgan – C F Reese Ltd, Hamilton ■■ Devante Cassin – Tech Mechanical, Napier ■■ Cooper Russell-Hall – E G Glennie & Co, Wellington ■■ Jack O’Neill – Williamson Drainage Contractors, Christchurch ■■ Nick Cartwright – Advantage Plumbing Queenstown ■■ Matt Dale – Advantage Plumbing Queenstown ■■ Daniel Muir – HiFlo Plumbing & Gas, Oamaru ■■ Matt Leishman – University of Otago, Dunedin

Not one but three Masterlink apprentices at host company Heron Plumbing have recently completed National Certificates! Director Dale Lovell is shown here with, from left, Ben Ryan, Patrick Sweeney and Tahir Nin.

QUALIFIED!

Congratulations to all newly qualified Masterlink apprentices and a big thanks to their host businesses!

PLUMBING & GASFITTING ■■ James Ball ■■ Joshua Coleman ■■ Cameron Isaacs ■■ George Morgan ■■ Tyler Richardson ■■ Thomas Scurr ■■ Alan Wharton ■■ Cameron Wilson

PLUMBING ■■ Harrison Clark ■■ Ezra Edwards ■■ Darren Mills ■■ Tahir Nin ■■ Matthew Neale ■■ Aaron Parry ■■ Ben Ryan ■■ Patrick Sweeney

Aaron Parry of Illingworth Plumbing receiving his Plumbing National Certificate from Masterlink RM Colin Kilpatrick.

James Ball at Brierly Plumbing & Gas Services with his Plumbing and Gasfitting National Certificates.

GET IN TOUCH Need an apprentice in your business? Masterlink Regional Managers are here to help.

Tania Forsyth Auckland & Northland 027 558 5441

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Russell Walsh Central North Island 027 600 9929

Sam Timlin Upper South Island 021 433 615

Colin Kilpatrick Auckland 021 773 296

Bob McCoy Lower North Island 027 479 0075

Brendan Parker Lower South Island 021 644 560

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Master Plumbers

LIFE MEMBER PROFILE

“Involve yourself” Master Plumbers Life Member Barry Watkins says he’d recommend the plumbing trade to anyone—and the more you put in, the more you get out. NZ Plumber talks to Barry about his career and the changes he’s seen over the years.

AUTHOR: KERRIE MORGAN

H

aving arrived in New Zealand by ship with his parents in 1953, from Harrogate, England, Barry was just 16 when he started his plumbing apprenticeship with JB King and Sons.

Based in a very different Auckland to the one we know now, Barry earned £1,16 shillings and threepence a week for his first two years on the tools.

“An apprenticeship was 12,000 hours—or six years—back then,” he says. “If you sat your exams each year and passed them, you were allowed to sit your registration at 9,000 hours. I was fortunate enough to do this, and that made me a registered plumber.”

Barry’s career with JB King continued for a further 12 months, before he moved on to T Osbourne, also in Auckland. From there, he moved to Hoffman Plumbers and, finally, Barnes and Follas in Avondale.

He was about to move on again when the owner, Dave Follas, made him an offer he couldn’t refuse.

“Dave called me into the office the day after I told him I was leaving and asked if I would like to take a partnership in the company,” recalls Barry. “I was very fortunate. That was where my whole working life continued and finished.”

Over a working life that spanned fourplus decades, he saw huge changes in just about every facet of the plumbing industry. “First of all, there was no plastic piping in my day; it was all copper or wrought iron pipes. As part of your exams, you had to prove your skills at using lead— there’s no such thing now!”

Barry Watkins (left) at the 2016 plumbing conference with fellow Life Member, the late Graeme Mander (right) and Auckland Master Plumbers Life Member Bryan Heron.

Another huge change has been the emergence of more women in the trade.

“In my day, if it was suggested a girl wanted to become a plumber…. whoa!” laughs Barry. “Nowadays there are more and more joining the trade—and why not?!”

Barry always found it easy to stay motivated, and says being successful at something he enjoyed doing was just the icing on the cake. At 60, he resigned from the company and he and Dave Follas sold the building they owned together.

Although he’d officially stopped work, he remained heavily involved with Master Plumbers for a number of years—and while serving as National President was lucky enough to travel around the country, collecting friends all over Aotearoa. He and his wife have also taken no fewer than 14 trips to different parts of the world as a shareholder of NZPM. “I’ve done and seen so much because of my career and I would recommend it to anyone,” he says. “My advice would be: involve yourself. Get out there and become a part of it all—if you want to, of course!

I think plumbing is one of the best trades anybody could get into. I wouldn’t change what I’ve done for the world.”

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Business smarts 62 CARTELS WILL BE CRIMINAL

64 TIME TO EXPAND YOUR TEAM?

66 BUSINESS LOAN

SCHEME EXTENDED

67 CURRENCY IN CERTAINTY

68 STEERING THE BUS 69 CHOICES, CHOICES 70 HERE FOR YOUR HR NEEDS

71

CARING FOR THE CARERS

73 5 STRINGS

TO SAFETY

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CARTELS WILL BE CRIMINAL Individuals could face up to seven years in prison for entering into cartels under changes to cartel law that come into effect on 8 April.

W

hat is changing?

Cartel conduct is currently dealt with as a civil offence under the Commerce Act. Penalties can be imposed on a business or an individual: up to $500,000 on an individual and up to $10 million, three times commercial gain or 10% of turnover per year per breach for a business.

The new criminal offence, which comes into effect on 8 April, allows criminal penalties to be imposed. The new criminal penalties are up to seven years’ imprisonment for individuals and/ or a fine of up to $500,000. The fines for businesses are the same under the civil and criminal regime.

Any cartel agreement entered into after 8 April will be subject to the new law. If a cartel agreement was entered into before 8 April, conduct after that date will be subject to the criminal legislation.

Leniency policy If an individual or business thinks they are in a cartel, they need to act fast.

The Commerce Commission can grant leniency to the first member of a cartel to approach them, provided they meet the requirements for leniency. The individual or their company won’t be subject to court action if they full cooperate with the investigation and proceedings.

The process is given in the Commerce Commission’s Cartel Leniency Policy, which is being updated to reflect the criminalisation of cartels.

The Commission also has an anonymous ‘whistleblower tool’. Confidential reports can be submitted at https://report. whistleb.com/en/comcom

Find out more and watch a webinar recording on the changes at www.comcom.govt.nz/cartels

Business smarts CARTEL LAW

WHAT IS A CARTEL?

Cartels deprive consumers and other businesses of a fair deal.

A cartel is where two or more businesses agree not to compete with each other. This can include: Price fixing Market allocation Bid rigging Restricting output of goods and services.

Example: Market allocation & price fixing Three businesses compete to sell farm machinery.

They agree to allocate the areas they can sell to—one only in the North Island and the other two only in the South Island.

They also agree 6-monthly price increases and a ‘scoresheet’ to ensure they all stick to the agreement.

Example: Bid rigging A group of fire alarm and sprinkler installation companies meet regularly to discuss tenders. They call it a ‘coffee club’. Every tender, participants decide who will win the tender and submit prices just above the agreed winner.

This makes the tender process look legitimate while ensuring bidders supply at higher prices.

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Is it time to

EXPAND YOUR TEAM? Business coach Daniel Fitzpatrick walks you through what to consider before you take on more staff.

AUTHOR: DANIEL FITZPATRICK, NEXT LEVEL TRADIE

Business smarts BUSINESS COACH

Y

ou’re busy as. You don’t have the manpower to handle the current workload. Lead time is stretching out. And the work keeps coming.

Many tradies find it hard to say ‘No’ to customers. Or feel they can’t knock back jobs as it will impact growth. So end up working longer and longer hours.

Is the answer to expand and try to do more? Or stick it out and do as much as you can with the team you’ve got?

You may have been down this road before. Taken on extra staff, or seen others do it and be worse off. You don’t want to repeat those mistakes.

And isn’t there a downturn coming?! It’s hard to predict.

That’s why I’d recommend building your war chest while things are good. Create a cash cushion and increase efficiency now. So you can easily adapt—whatever happens next.

If you’re getting geared up to take as much work as you can, great. Nothing worse than feeling like you’re missing out on opportunities.

Want to know how you can tell if it’s likely to work out well? It depends on your own situation.

A rough guide: If you pay your new tradie on the tools $65,000 per year ($1,250 per week), then billable hours (not including materials) for them needs to be around 2-3 times that (ie $2,500 - $3,750 per week).

To get a more exact picture we’d also look at overhead costs and gross margins.* Generally, if you get this right, you can aim to make $40,000-$80,000 off each of your employees on the tools. If you can’t afford to put on another full-timer, it’s likely your rates are too low, especially if you have minimal overheads.*

Ask yourself these questions:

What if you get a bad apple?

How many months confirmed work do I have right now?

Are clients prepared to wait or am I losing jobs through long wait times?

How much money could I make off increased capacity? Is the work profitable or is it work that has low margin?

Being busy doesn’t mean you’re profitable.

You might make more money picking and choosing the best jobs, and turning the others away. When taking on more work and a bigger crew, ensure there’s margins in the jobs. Otherwise it’s just endless stress and bad cashflow. Also assess whether the work best suits you or if it’s slowing you up.

If jobs are taking longer than they should, that’s affecting your margin too.

Do you see where I’m going with this?

Let me say it straight: The real answer is in your numbers, not in your workload.

You’re in business to make money. So business decisions should (mostly) be based on the numbers. Numbers make things very black and white. So you can make smarter decisions.

Can you make money off another worker?

Consider how much it would cost you, and what you would need to get back.

Does cashflow support it?

There’ll be an initial dip in your bank account for at least a month or two, while you get them up to speed plus pay their wages (before you can bill for the work they’re putting out and get that money back). Look for any subsidies to help with initial costs.

The trick is to do a simple cashflow forecast to see what’s going to be in your bank account over the next few months. Then you can make sure cashflow won’t be stretched too far.

Warning: Many tradies have lost the ability to pay their staff when customers didn’t pay. Ensure you have robust systems for minimising late/bad payers.

This can happen. It will cost you money. It’s a risk. What can you do? You gotta bite the bullet. Invest in finding the right person.

Play at 100%. Advertise the job right.

Do due diligence. Interview well. Check references properly.

Get the right help, not just ‘help’.

Make sure you include a 90-day trial in their employment contract (if you have less than 20 staff). During this time, you want to watch them closely on the job, check in regularly. Test and push them a bit, to see how they respond, if they’ll be a good longterm employee.

Remember that quality staff requires a quality leader. Train your crew properly.

Give them structure. Build team culture.

Grow the business this way and it will pay huge dividends down the track.

In the meantime you’ll find things for them to do: Use your downtime to train them. Get them in the office quoting, clean the van, fill it up, go get this or that.

Know your worst case scenario numbers.

How long could you go with no work for them? With a 90-day trial, you can always let them go if you don’t have the work. Not ideal, but keep in mind.

More things to check: How will the new hire fit into the current team? Don’t want to upset the apple cart.

Can you speed up the office? A bookkeeper or office manager may be far more efficient than you.

Someone with experience costs more and gets more done. Someone who needs training costs less. Both can work. Return takes longer if less skilled. Taking on an apprentice is a great option right now.

Would a foreman to manage the team be a better option than an extra pair of hands on the tools?

Does anyone need to get off the bus first? An existing crew member with a bad attitude creates ripples seen and unseen. That’s something you need to take care of right away.

What if you just can’t find good qualified people? Well, what kind of ad are you putting out? Are you helping them see why they should choose you? Good people are out there. They want to work for someone like you. But it won’t happen if you don’t make your company look like an appealing option. More on that another time.

If you’re busy, more workers will help.

After all, there’s a limit to how much work your current team can get out, even if you improve your productivity.

Conversely, more staff and more work won’t make your life easier unless the numbers stack up. Employees should make you money. If increasing your team makes sense—then go for it.

What happens if work dries up?

Finding a steady supply of the most profitable work takes effort.

Hiring will free you up to hunt for more work. Put the time in and you’ll find it. You can’t grow a business with a scarcity mindset.

Overwhelmed with work only some of the time? Make a decision to grow or stay small. You can’t have it both ways.

Sure—you don’t want to pay someone to do nothing. But in this environment, you’ll only be slow if you allow yourself to be.

*If you need help—or just want someone to talk strategy with—hit me up for a free 45-minute coaching session here: https://nextleveltradie.co.nz/nextstep/

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Business smarts TAX & FINANCE

BUSINESS LOAN SCHEME EXTENDED Recent changes have made the Small Business Cashflow (Loan) Scheme even more useful than before, as Brett Crombie explains.

Early last year the government announced the Small Business Cashflow (Loan) Scheme (SBCS) in response to the expected business downturn caused by Covid-19. The scheme is administered by Inland Revenue and provides small and medium businesses with loans of up to $10,000 plus $1,800 per full time employee. Interest is not charged on the loan, provided it is fully repaid within two years. By December 2020, over 100,000 businesses had made use of the SBCS to access around $1.6 billion of loans. Most had gone to businesses in the building and construction sector.

Extension and expanded eligibility The government appears eager to build on the early success of the SBCS and in

December 2020 announced these changes: Applications can now be submitted up to 31 December 2023 New businesses established after 1 April 2020, which have existed for six months, will now be eligible Businesses need only demonstrate a drop in revenue of 30% over any 14-day period compared to the same period a year ago The loan can be used for investment in new equipment or digital infrastructure, and not just for core operating expenses Businesses can draw down a second loan, provided they have repaid the original loan.

Like the original scheme, to access the SBCS a business must be viable, which may require a cashflow forecast or accountant’s assessment.

Recommended actions With the expanded eligibility criteria in effect from February 2021, it’s worth taking a second look at the SBCS to see if your business could benefit. Now is a good time to set out your business goals and projections for the next 12 months; and the availability of interest-free business funding could be a key factor to help achieve them.

About the author: Brett Crombie is a Chartered Accountant, qualified lawyer and former Inland Revenue tax investigator. He is the owner of Straightedge Accounting, which provides tax, accounting and business advisory services. Contact Brett on 021 301 022 or email brett.crombie@straightedge.nz

Disclaimer: This is general information only and not intended to be treated as professional advice. It is recommended you seek professional advice before acting.

Feeling under Pressure?

Don’t let your jobs get backed up.

Take on an apprentice and secure the future of your business.

Call Skills on 0508 SKILLS (754 557) to find out more.

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Business smarts BOOKKEEPING

CURRENCY IN CERTAINTY In uncertain times, a good bookkeeper is worth their weight in gold, as the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers explains.

Ask any small to medium business owner what the biggest, scariest thing about the Covid-19 national lockdown was and they are likely to respond: having to ‘shut down’ the business within 24 hours. This meant having to convert their business into an agile working environment at haste, and mobilise a team who were also coming to terms with the abrupt change.

Benjamin Franklin is famously quoted as saying there are only two things certain in life: death and taxes. But we would like to add a third certainty: currency.

How does this relate to bookkeeping?

Where there is currency, there is a value chain analysis around that currency—and this is what a really good bookkeeper offers.

As Lisa Martin, Certified Bookkeeper and Executive Director at GoFi8ure in Wellington, puts it: “The value bookkeepers add is knowing what you don’t know and providing certainty in the data and accounts, which business owners need right now in these uncertain times.”

Bookkeepers provide a range of services, which varies depending on what each individual business requires, but they all provide the same fundamental assistance: Certainty: accurate data takes the guesswork out of business A good bookkeeper: Reviews your data daily, weekly, monthly or even bi-monthly to ensure your financial records are up to date Carries out regular reconciliations based on bank statements to ensure accounts are up to date and that you are paying the right invoices to keep your contracts intact Makes sure that when you invoice a customer, it gets to the right person and the payments are made Ensures you are claiming the right GST each time because you know your data is correct Provides a clarity and financial analysis to support your decision making.

Currency: accurate data helps your business be financially successful A good bookkeeper: Ensures your business is meeting legislative requirements in terms of your employee obligations, thus reducing the risk of error and penalties

Want to engage a

BOOKKEEPER? If you have read this article and found a new reason to justify engaging a bookkeeper in your business, search the ICNZB directory for a Certified Bookkeeper near you. It’s a good idea to interview potential candidates to determine whether they will be a good fit. Your bookkeeper is going to be an integral member of your team! Mutual trust and respect are important. https://www.icbnzbai.org.nz/Find-a-Bookkeeper

Ensures your creditors are up to date, which means your suppliers and customers will remain happy with your services— increasing your businesses reputation Ensures you keep on the right side of the ledger, helping your business thrive.

How do bookkeepers know right from wrong?

Bookkeepers who are members of ICNZB have many resources available to them to ensure your business is operating legally and compliantly. They are exposed to educational opportunities throughout the year to keep them up to date on legislative changes and requirements.

ICNZB Certified Bookkeepers also abide by a Code of Ethics, which protects the integrity of the Association, the profession, and the recipients of bookkeeping services.

Millars Plumbing & Drainlaying Otautau Ltd Are looking for a Gasfitter and or Plumber with a current Practicing Licence. The successful applicant will have to have good communication skills and excellent knowledge of products and plumbing practices. Be able to work unsupervised, have the ability to problem solve, be honest & trustworthy. We service a large country area, involved in maintenance and new work, servicing commercial and domestic clients. We are a family plumbing business operating in Southland for over 32 years. We are located at the bottom of the South Island and are two hours’ drive from Queenstown—the adventure capital of NZ—an hour and a half from beautiful Fiordland and Te Anau, and twenty minutes from the beach at Riverton.

If this sounds like you, check our business out on Facebook and apply today in writing with attached CV to millars.plumbing@xtra.co.nz Graeme 0274340705

The cost to place a classified advertisement is $60+GST for Master Plumbers members; $100+GST for non-members.

Email advertising@masterplumbers.org.nz nzplumber

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Business smarts EMPLOYER PERSPECTIVES

To get a better understanding of who needs to be on our bus, I put together a ‘maturity plan’. In other words, a picture of what our business would look like when it reached its success point. What profit would we be making, what would our annual sales need to be to make that profit, how many and what type of jobs would we need to be doing to reach those sales, and what resources would we need to achieve all that.

Filling the key seats

STEERING THE BUS

Is your bus filled with all the right people and going in the right direction? Sam Tyson shares her view from the driving seat.

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t Climate & Plumbing, our No.1 goal is to maintain our company culture and values. We want to be around for 100+ years and how we do that is by being a valuesdriven organisation. Our people and our values will always come first over profit.

Our No.2 goal is to make a damn good profit. We use all our skills, experience and care to make a damn good profit; enabling us to take good care of our people and our community. However, we will never go for profit at the expense of our people and/or our values. We will always leave a dollar on the table before we sacrifice either of these.

We have a rule that sits alongside these goals—our 51:49 rule. As an organisation, our decisions and actions are based 51% on our people and values, and 49% on profit.

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Journey to success With our people being the foundation of our business, my role as the leader must be making sure I have the right people sitting on the bus in the right seats, and that we are all going in the right direction. Once I have that right, and when I take good care of our people, they will take good care of our customers, who in turn, return and tell others, taking good care of our business.

If the person sitting in that seat was not doing a good enough job, would it cause damage to the business?

SAM TYSON Managing Director, Climate & Plumbing

This led me to creating a team structure and looking at the key roles the business needs going forward. You can determine the key roles by asking, “If the person sitting in that seat was not doing a good enough job, would it cause damage to the business?” A typical key role for a plumbing business such as ours is an operations manager. If that person were not doing a good enough job, we would soon be losing customers and staff, and our profit would take a dive.

Once you have established your key roles and you have people sitting in them, your constant number one metric needs to be: what percentage of key seats on the bus are filled with the right people for those seats? Is it 50%, 80% or 100%?

If your bus is not at 100% because you don’t have people in the right seats, you need to determine whether you can develop them or do you replace them. Questions to ask yourself when faced with the ‘develop or replace’ dilemma: Are you beginning to lose people by keeping this person?

Is it a values problem, a willingness problem or a skills problem?

Has your confidence in that person gone up or down in the last six months?

Are they on the wrong bus, or simply in the wrong seat?

How would you feel if that person quit?

Our bus is not at 100% because, from my maturity plan, we have some empty seats.

I am looking forward to finding the right people to come on board.

About the author: Sam Tyson has been Managing Director of Climate & Plumbing since 2010. She is an active member in the industry and, with a background in strategic business development, shares the knowledge and experience gained from her award-winning business to help others obtain better results in their businesses.

Business smarts EMPLOYER PERSPECTIVES

Choices, choices For young people considering their career options, the longevity of the plumbing industry provides a measure of security, as Tracy Pleasants of Foleys explains.

We live in a world where there is a lot of choice and this choice extends to career options, both for school leavers and adults. For one of the directors of our company, becoming a plumber was pretty much a given from birth. His father was a plumber, as well as his grandfather, and the natural assumption was that he would follow in their footsteps—and he did.

For our other director, also with a plumber father, after being unsuccessful with landing an electrical apprenticeship and not wanting to be a builder, he fell into plumbing as he wanted to get a trade behind him. With a combined experience of over 70 years, and although no longer ‘on the tools’, their careers have progressed from being young Foleys’ apprentices to owners, directors and managers within Foleys.

As a company, nearly a quarter of our employees are completing apprenticeships

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(in plumbing, drainlaying, gasfitting, electrical and mechanical services).

Because the company extends across 11 locations, we can offer them flexibility and career progression, which for many people coming into trades is an attractive bonus.

All this aside, we are competing for good-quality apprentices, not only alongside other trade companies but across a multitude of different career

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About the author: Tracy Pleasants is the Marketing Manager for Foleys based in Dunedin. Foleys is a plumbing, drainlaying, gasfitting, electrical and mechanical company with 11 branches across the South Island and Palmerston North.

Foleys employ over 220 staff, of which nearly a quarter are completing apprenticeships.

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options. When our two directors joined Foleys in the 1980s, there were no IT job options; people weren’t making a career out of compliance or health and safety, or building websites, to name but a few.

It is estimated that 85% of jobs that will exist in 2030 haven’t even been invented yet!

Luckily, when we are selling the plumbing career dream to prospective apprentices, we’ve got longevity going back to Roman times to provide some degree of security.

COPPER C23 M57 Y85 K7

S U P E R I O R S P O U T I N G E V E R Y D AY

AUCKLAND & WELLINGTON 0800 365 365 I three65spouting.nz LICHEN C50 M45 Y57 K14

COPPER C23 M57 Y85 K7

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Business smarts HR ADVICE

Here for your HR needs

With all that’s been going on in her role of HR Manager at Master Plumbers over the last couple of years, Lisa Duston says it’s a good time to remind members of what’s on offer!

As you’ll know, every employee—whether casual, part-time or business owner—must have a written employment agreement. You can find every type of agreement in the member log-in area of the Master Plumbers website, under ‘HR Support’.

In this section, you will also find some workplace policies that you can make your own to ensure everyone knows what’s required of them when employed in your business.

During my time with Master Plumbers, I have assisted many members with employment situations, so I decided to document the most common issues to develop helpful resources for members to use in house when dealing with these situations.

The range of easy-to-read guides in the HR Support section include: Recruitment and Selection Guide: guidance on the recruitment process plus a pre-employment checklist, interview guide and questions, and a reference check form template.

Employment Agreements & Policies Guide: helping you determine what types of agreements and policies you may need in your business.

Employee Performance Guide: guidance on managing performance issues and the benefits of regular performance ‘check-ins’ with your employees. We also have some great checkin templates to get you started.

Disciplinary Process and Suspension Guide: your go-to when it comes to employment issues, including a handy checklist if you have to speak to a staff member about an employment situation.

Business Restructuring Guide: developed during the Covid-19 pandemic for businesses needing to downsize, this document gives guidance on ensuring the process is managed correctly.

Selling Your Business Guide: things to consider when planning to retire or move out of your business, plus a succession plan checklist.

There are also a number of useful factsheets to help you understand some of the legal requirements around managing staff, such as trial periods, hours of work and rest and meal breaks.

The Master Plumbers HR support service is here to assist members with any employment issues. Feel free to contact me if you want to have a chat.

About the author: Lisa Duston is HR Manager at Master Plumbers. Lisa offers HR advice to Master Plumbers’ members at competitive rates. Contact Lisa on 021 245 1704 or email lduston@masterplumbers.org.nz

“IT’S OK TO REACH OUT FOR HELP”

Meet Kereama Carmody—mental health and wellbeing coach available to Master Plumbers members and their staff.

Master Plumbers have recently established an 0800 helpline to support members and their staff who may be experiencing mental health concerns, and anyone needing to talk through challenges they’re facing. Calls to the helpline will be answered by Kereama Carmody of Kereama Consulting, a registered social worker with extensive experience in the treatment of mental health and alcohol and drug issues. Before moving into private practice, Kereama was with Odyssey House in Christchurch overseeing all youth contracts within the senior leadership team.

“The 0800 helpline is confidential and a safe space to ask for advice or talk through any issues that may be having an effect on your day-to-day living,” says Kereama. “While it may seem hard to do, it’s OK to reach out for help. If you’re concerned about your own mental health or drug and alcohol use—or someone else’s— don’t hesitate to get in touch.”

The 0800 service is available to Master Plumbers members 9am-5pm from Monday to Friday. Please note, in a crisis or emergency please call 111 or contact your GP.

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Kereama Carmody will be sharing wellbeing tips in NZ Plumber, so keep an eye out for these in 2021.

Business smarts HEALTH & WELLBEING

CASE STUDY: caring for a parent with dementia

Did you know that 1 in 8 employees are carers for friends or family members? As an employer, you can make it easier for them to stay in work by becoming a Carewise carer-friendly workplace.

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t’s quite likely that someone in your workplace is a carer for a friend or family member who is unwell, frail or has a chronic condition or disability. It can be tough for them, juggling their commitments to work and to the person they support.

By becoming a Carewise Workplace, you can access free employer tools to help you retain a valuable staff member, who may be feeling they have to leave their job or reduce their hours to cope with their additional responsibilities.

CareWise is part of Carers NZ, a national not-for-profit organisation. When you commit to being a carer-friendly employer, you receive a welcome pack and are guided through the CareWise Self-Review, giving you recommendations to follow based on five key aspects. Along with employer resources, CareWise also provides support for the employee who is the carer.

When you commit to being a CareWise workplace, you receive a CareWise badge to display in your workplace, along with employer tools and support for staff who are caring for someone.

Andy says it’s hard to put into words what it’s been like caring for his elderly mother for the last seven years.

She has dementia but remains fiercely independent, refusing outside help. Andy is her sole carer.

“What it comes down to is all I’m doing is giving back.

Mum cared for me since I was a baby, so it’s the least I can do. I’m just someone who’s trying to do the best they can.”

Andy juggles his caring role with his technician’s job in South Auckland. He has worked for the company for more than 30 years. Andy says his team is fantastic, and a great example of how workplaces can support carers like him, so they can keep working and earning.

“I’m lucky to have flexibility of hours. My workmates ask about my situation and whether there’s anything they can do. I’ve been granted the yearly 10 days of domestic leave, which is usually allocated for parents with kids, and it makes such a difference.”

“If I ask for a couple of hours off to take Mum to a medical appointment or whatever, it’s granted immediately. I do a really good job as well so I do believe it’s a two-way street.”

Andy works full-time, sticking to normal business hours where possible. In the evenings he prepares a meal which he shares with his Mum, who lives in her own home nearby.

“Before I leave I’ll check everything is secure then go home to do my own chores, waking up at 5.30am for work.”

It can be a lonely life with little time for personal activities.

“One thing I am very grateful for is a solid group of friends who keep an eye on me and support wherever they can.”

Despite the challenges, Andy is glad to be there for his Mum. “I see it as a gift.”

Find out more at www.carewise.org.nz

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LOOK OUT FOR THE TICK OF APPROVAL

We put each and every Master Plumbers Recommends plumbing product to the test, assessing all aspects, such as ensuring replacement parts are readily accessible, they’re easy to install and they look great. Of course it goes without saying that they also come with a solid manufacturer’s guarantee. Once it ticks all those boxes, it gets our tick of approval.

To find out more call 0800 502 102 or visit tickofapproval.co.nz

Business smarts INSURANCE ADVICE

5 STRINGS TO SAFETY

How many strings do you have on your ‘insurance parachute’? Crombie Lockwood explains how each contributes to your business safety.

Business insurance is a funny old* thing.

You pay your premium every year, hoping you never have to use what it is you are buying. And that is actually the secret.

Just like the strings between you and the parachute—you hope you don’t have to use them but when you do, you really need them to work. In the case of Master Plumbers Insurance there are five strings to your ‘insurance parachute’, each one contributing to your business safety.

1 Your property and assets (the physical things your business needs) are covered by the Material Damage policy. This is the most basic and important of your business insurances.

2 Obviously you need to cover your van or other business vehicles, which will be included in the Commercial Motor cover. In this case the word ‘commercial’ is important.

Your own private vehicle won’t be covered if it is being used for ‘business purposes’.

3 Having Public Liability insurance is compulsory for Master Plumber members.

It protects you (and our collective trade reputation) if you are found to be legally liable for damage to another party’s property or person—for example the 2019 gas explosion in Christchurch.

4 Statutory Liability as the name implies, provides cover for inadvertent breaches of many regulations and Acts, brought against

you by a regulatory authority. The most important among the many Acts covered are Resource Management Act, Health & Safety at Work Act (fines not included) and Fair Trading Act. 5 The fifth, and increasingly important insurance thread, is Professional Indemnity.

Known as PI, this liability cover defends you against claims of professional negligence and the costs suffered by an affected third party. For example if you recommend and fit a particular valve that later fails and causes flooding of your client’s premises. * When we say old, we mean it; insurance was ‘invented’ at Lloyd’s Coffee House, London, in the late 1690s.

In the next issue Crombie Lockwood will take you through some tips and tricks to make sure you always have the right cover for your individual business. Meantime, if you need advice or just help with understanding your current insurances, email vaughan.bridges@crombielockwood.co.nz

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Career starters

SOUTHERN

LEGENDS Covid-19 disruptions may have put a halt to the Southland and Otago Master Plumbers awards function planned for late 2020, but it didn’t stop the latest Mac McKenzie Trust Award winners being given due recognition for their achievements.

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tu McIvor of McIvor Plumbers & Gasfitters Wanaka went ahead and hosted a function at his workshop last November to ensure his employee Brent Ewing could properly celebrate winning the Mac McKenzie Trust Award for the Overall Top Performing Apprentice in Otago/Southland.

The award is given each year to the top performing, completing apprentice in the previous year, in recognition of excellence in all aspects of training during their apprenticeship. It was an amazing achievement for Brent, who was 38 when he started his Masterlink apprenticeship at Stu’s firm, having switched to plumbing

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THE FUTURE

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Brent Ewing, Otago and Overall 2020 Mac McKenzie Trust Award winner (centre) with, from left, Stu McIvor (McIvor Plumbers & Gasfitters Wanaka), Roger Herd (Mac McKenzie Trust Chairman) and Brent’s sons, future aspiring apprentices Tommy, Nico and Koby.

Career starters OTAGO & SOUTHLAND WINNERS

Mac McKenzie Top Performing Apprentice Southland award winner Bevan Treymane with his wife Latoya at the Southland Master Plumbers Association Christmas Dinner event.

Craig Foley and Karyn Finlayson of Foleys Dunedin with Karyn’s Otago Mac McKenzie Apprentice Award.

and gasfitting from being a snowboard instructor and hospitality worker. The award topped off a very big year for Brent, who was also the recipient of the James Douglas Medallion at the 2020 NZ Plumbing Awards.

Mac McKenzie Trust Awards have been presented since 1996, with no fewer than five to be given out each year as of 2020. Brent also won the Top Performing Apprentice Otago, with Bevan Treymane of Karl Boniface Plumbing in Invercargill collecting his Top Performing Apprentice Southland award at the Southland Master Plumbers Association Christmas Dinner, held at Invercargill’s Motorcycle Mecca in late November.

Current apprentices in each region were also recognised for outstanding performance or overcoming adversity

through two new Apprentice Awards. Levi Wairau, a Masterlink apprentice at Barnes Plumbing in Te Anau, was the Apprentice Award winner in Southland and was also at the Christmas function to collect his award.

Levi played a key part in the business when some of the regular tradesmen left, taking on roles that pushed his abilities to the limit at times. He has made huge strides in overall performance both on the work site and at block courses, according to his Masterlink Regional Manager Brendan Parker.

Karyn Finlayson of Foleys in Dunedin was the Apprentice Award winner in Otago and was presented with her certificate at the company’s Christmas break-up day in December 2020. Karyn commenced her apprenticeship with Foleys in May 2018 and has worked on service as well as spending time on large contracts.

Levi Wairau, a Masterlink apprentice at Barnes Plumbing in Te Anau, received the Mac McKenzie Apprentice Award for Southland. He’s shown here at the Southland Christmas function with his mum Kate.

About the Mac McKenzie Award The Mac McKenzie award is named for Mervyn, aka Mac, McKenzie, who was a highly respected head plumbing tutor in Dunedin from 1952 until his untimely death, at 54, in 1975. The first Mac McKenzie award to a top achieving apprentice was presented in 1976 and a trust was set up in his name in 1996, with awards being given annually ever since.

The Mac McKenzie Trust is endorsed by the Otago, Southland and Queenstown Lakes Master Plumbers.

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Master Plumbers Apprentice Outward Bound Scholarship winner Quintin Trott took part in kayaking, hiking and high rope challenges during the 16-day course in the Marlborough Sounds.

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Career starters APPRENTICE PROFILE

RISING TO THE

CHALLENGE Quintin Trott has returned from his Master Plumbers Apprentice Outward Bound Scholarship experience with greater confidence and a real sense of achievement. NZ Plumber spoke to Quintin about the 16-day challenge.

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Career starters APPRENTICE PROFILE

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hen Masterlink plumbing and gasfitting apprentice Quintin Trott saw the advertisement for the 2020 Outward Bound Scholarship, which is open to apprentice members of Master Plumbers, he jumped at the chance to apply.

A keen outdoors type, who likes to go fishing, swimming, hiking and hunting, Quintin saw the 16-day course as a good opportunity for confidence building—so he was stoked to hear that he’d been picked to attend.

Covid-19 put a temporary halt to the action, but in November Quintin finally got to travel from his Hamilton home town to Anakiwa in the Marlborough Sounds to join 13 other young tradespeople on the course, as part of Batten 671.

“We did a lot of hiking, kayaking and high ropes but one of the biggest challenges was spending two days solo up a hill, sleeping under a tarp,” recalls Quintin.

“You were totally by yourself and stuck in your head, so there was a lot of time for reflection. At home, you’re always busy and around things but for those two days there was nothing going on, so you had to relax, rest and switch off.”

Those two days aside, the group did everything together so there were plenty of

Outward Bound Watches carry out community service activities as part of the course, with Quintin’s Watch building this rain shelter at the Anakiwa site.

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Outward Bound participants stay together in a Watch House during their time on the course. Quintin was part of the Batten 671 Watch, a group of 14 young tradespeople.

moments for talking, sharing and opening up to people he had only recently met. “As part of our community service, we also built a rainproof shelter as a permanent structure for future groups,” he says.

For Quintin, the most rewarding aspect of the course was the chance to get away from everything in everyday life and to get to know himself better. It was also the toughest part, as it meant being away from his wife, two young stepsons and sevenmonth-old daughter. “That was massive for me and it felt good to be back,” he says.

Now in the third year of his apprenticeship, Quintin went on the course with the full support of his Masterlink host business, Plumbing and Gas Works in Hamilton.

Asked if he’d recommend the course to others, Quintin comes back in a flash: “100%—without a doubt.”

Entries for the 2021 Master Plumbers Outward Bound Scholarship open soon. Find more information and an application form at www.masterplumbers.org.nz/about/ apprenticeships/outward-bound-scholarship/

“I can see exactly how much each job costs me and how much profit I am making per job. I like the fact I can quickly look through previous jobs and customers and see how much work I have done for them.”

To increase flow on Unequal Pressure systems, install the shower mixer range with Technology.

Andrew, Watersmith Plumbing

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FRANCHISES AVAILABLE DrainPro has franchise opportunities available around the country.

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Contact Nathan to register your interest nathan@drainpro.co.nz

www.drainpro.co.nz

Career starters CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Inspiring the Future events provide a fun way for young school students to learn about different jobs and why people love doing them.

INSPIRING THE FUTURE

Young school children around New Zealand are set to get a better idea of the huge variety of job options available to them through a new Inspiring the Future initiative—and you could be their role model!

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2019 Drawing the Future survey of Kiwi school kids, aged seven to 13, showed that over half (53%) aspired to one of just nine career options—with sportsperson way out at the top of the list, followed by vet, police officer and teacher.

The jobs they knew about were very generic and didn’t reflect the current workforce. Their career aspirations also showed unconscious bias, with boys nine times more likely than girls to want to work in a trade, and four times more likely to aspire to be an engineer.

In this age group, children are yet to choose their secondary school subjects, so it’s really important to plant the seeds of opportunity—broadening young people’s career horizons and challenging stereotypes that can limit their potential.

Inspiring the Future A new initiative, led by the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), aims to do just this in a fun and interactive way. Called

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Inspiring the Future, it sees volunteer role models from all walks of life turning up at schools for a three-part event that includes a game of 20 questions to guess what job each role model does.

“Anyone can become a role model, no matter what your role or the journey you took to get there.”

“Do you wear a uniform?” “Do you work with children?” “Do you use a computer?” are typical questions the young audiences might ask.

Plumbing and gasfitting apprentice Nikita Porthouse was among the six role models at a pilot event in Porirua last October, where students figured she was a doctor, police officer or banker. Jaws literally dropped when she returned on

stage for the big reveal wearing plumbing overalls and with wrench in hand!

The real gold happens after the Q&A session, with each role model talking to the students about their job—what a typical day looks like, how they got started and what they love about it—and answering any questions.

To date, these two- to three-hour events have been held at schools in Dunedin, Gisborne and Auckland, with plans to roll them out to schools around New Zealand in term two this year. Online events are also in the pipeline for the more remote schools, where volunteer numbers could be limited.

“People in the local community signing on as role models is key to Inspiring the Future, because students want to hear real stories about real jobs from local people they can relate to,” says TEC Chief Executive Tim Fowler. “Anyone can become a role model, no matter what your role or the journey you took to get there.”

Pupils get to guess what the volunteer role models do for a living and are often taken by complete surprise when they find out. This participant, astrobiologist Haritina Mogosanu, told students how important it is to wake up in the morning and look forward to going to your job.

WANT TO GET INVOLVED? If you are willing to volunteer as a role model for an event at a school in your local community, the Inspiring the Future team want to hear from you.

Sign up to be a role model at inspiringthefuture.org.nz/en_nz/ sign-up/role-models Find out more and watch event videos at inspiringthefuture.org.nz For any questions, email inspiringthefuture@tec.govt.nz By taking part, you’ll be raising the profile of your business in your local community as well as showcasing the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying industry as a great career pathway.

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And finally...

10 MINUTES WITH...

Calum McNab We talk rugby and plumbing with 21-year-old apprentice Calum McNab of Laser Plumbing Matamata.

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here do you live and work?

I was born and raised in Auckland, where I did all of my schooling, and moved to the Waikato at the end of 2017 to be part of the Waikato Rugby Academy. I applied for a job with Laser Plumbing Matamata and started work there at the beginning of 2018. Most of the work is in Cambridge, so I travel there in the morning and mainly work on the plumbing, gasfitting and drainage aspects of new houses, so I can be on the same job for a couple days in a row. My partner and I have just bought a section in town where we will start building our first home early this year.

Can you tell us about your rugby career to date?

I played rugby all through school, right from the early age of four. When I was a part of the Waikato Rugby Academy we would train up to four times a week, twice a day. I would be at the gym at 5am, then go to work at 7am and then do an on-field training after work. When I was still at high school, I received the Blues Rugby Scholarship, which helped to boost my personal growth and allowed me to develop both on and off field skills.

I was fortunate enough to rub shoulders with some pretty well known people from the game.

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DODGY PLUMBING

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10 MINUTES WITH…

How do you manage playing the sport around work?

Team trainings are generally twice a week for club rugby, so nothing too serious. In season I try and get to the gym a few times a week as well but that

really revolves around what time I get away from work. I had a year off from footy last year with a lower back injury, so I didn’t get any game time but I’m looking forward to putting the boots back on this year. Now that I’m living in Matamata I’m looking to play for a more local club, as the commute to Hamilton is a bit much. It should be a lot easier to fit on-field trainings around work.

Are there other ways you like to get involved with your community?

I enjoy helping our local people where I can, and have taken part in a few different community-based events, such as the recent Clean Up Matamata.

I have also joined the Rotary Young Leaders Programme, an intensive young leadership programme that grows emerging leaders. Taking part in the programme involves a range of experiences, including attending seminars and group activities designed to develop self-leadership and other skills, such as leadership of others.

Sounds like you have a full on and interesting schedule—so who inspires you?

My parents. They’ve always supported me through my endeavours and pushed me to be the best I can be. Dad has always been right into sports and the outdoors and given me that same upbringing.

What are your plans for the future?

My first big plan is getting our house built!

I want to become qualified in plumbing, gasfitting and drainage as soon as I can and then do my Certifying in all three.

And finally... ON THE SIDE

Calum McNab was the 2020 winner of the Personal Growth Award at the 2020 Waikato Master Plumbers Awards.

The judges noted his organisational, leadership and time management skills and his ability to motivate others as a strong team player.

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And finally... DODGY PLUMBING

Stopping the flow

Split personality

“Was wondering why rods wouldn’t clear the blockage,” says Bill Fitness of this photo.

And another one from Bill of stormwater going into a waste pipe…

Why authorised plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers are priceless…

Waste not, want not Russell Simson spotted this trap scenario when helping his brother-in-law shift his vanity earlier this year after he had bought a new house. “I guess the installer had found a ‘2 for 1’ deal when purchasing the traps, and didn’t want to ‘waste’ anything,” he says.

Sent in a photo and haven’t seen it yet? Please bear with us as we work our way through all the entries!

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DIY gas shower “Found this beauty in a house while replacing a gas cooker,” says Alan Dallas. “The owners had bought this to boost their shower pressure. Piped up with food grade hose and hose clips for gas pipe, leaking gas into the room. Not to mention the CO when running. After having a chat with them they agreed for me to disconnect it. And price up for an Infinity unit.”

For high-volume hot water

You beauties Thanks to Andrew Perano of Perano Plumbing and Gas for sending in these two. “Had been called to a job to extend a vent pipe and came across this beauty,” he says of the first.

And as for the second: “I opened up a shower wall for a reno and found this stunner. Both hoses were kinked and had been in for years. Just when you think you’ve seen it all.”

Check out the most extensive truly commercial range of energy-efficient hot water systems available in New Zealand.

Contact Paul Watson on 021 437 611 nzplumber

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And finally... DODGY PLUMBING

Too close!

Thanks to Scott Maden of Gas Works & Plumbing for sending in this photo.

“When the ORG is too close to the gas bottle. Don’t do this!!!!!”

Balancing act Thanks to Malcolm Hall for sending in this photo of a rather precarious gas bottle arrangement.

Not a lot of hot water “Client called to say he was running out of hot water, after renovation to laundry,” says Lance Crosland of this photo. “I wonder why?”

Grubby Craig Huston sent in these photos of a recent job he attended to change the toilet suite. “Owner asked, ‘Is the drain blocked?’

Politely I said, ‘No’. Then he said, ‘I can’t get the stain off the bowl.’ I wanted to say, ‘Put some *#$@! elbow grease into it.’”

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

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