Builders & Contractors Magazine, Issue #130

Issue #130 - 2021

REFRAMING BUILDING REQUIREMENTS Frame and truss suppliers struggle to keep up with demand

Getting things moving

Supply chain transformation offers huge opportunities

THE REAL COST OF LEAKY HOMES

Waste-to-landfill What's best practice in New Zealand today?

Future-proofing the industry

How digital-based technologies are changing construction

REVVING UP TRANSPORT EMISSION REDUCTIONS

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Issue #130 - B&C | 3

Contents, Issue #130 - 2021 Page: 32

Page: 98

Page: 110

Contents 8:

Welcome

- publisher's note This issue of Builders & Contractors marks 30 years the magazine’s been in print, so we’d like to start by thanking all those involved in construction throughout the nation for their hard work, dedication and what they have, and hopefully will, achieve.

Like all our magazines have during the past three decades, this issue covers a broad spectrum of topics relevant to the sector, including frame and truss suppliers struggling to keep up with demand, the opportunities presented with a reset of the supply chain, the ongoing impact of digitalbased technology, the real price paid by the leaky homes fiasco, and a look at transport emissions, plus much more.

9:

Understanding and navigating ‘variations’

42: HERA’s role as a catalyst for innovation

Is technology the answer to construction industry challenges?

47: Perry Metal Protection’s

12: Machine learning and the future

of construction

14: Supply chain transformation

– the biggest productivity opportunity for the industry

in the steel industry innovative ways

strings to its bow

50: Managing health, safety and security

with visitor management systems

18: Are kiwi companies really ready to

52: The 2021 Concrete Industry Apprentice

19: Kiwi businesses ‘can do better’ when

64: Counties Ready Mix redevelop to keep

21: Builders celebrate emerging talent

66: Frame and truss suppliers are hard

go cashless?

it comes to workplace wellbeing

and discuss critical industry issues

of The Year

up with the demand.

pressed keeping up with demand

23: Tools Down aims to halve tradie suicides 70: The real cost of leaky homes 75: Revving up transport 26: Downtown Ferry Landing’s biggest

upgrade in over a century

32: CMP Construction’s $38 million

Neo Apartments project

emission reductions

Enjoy!

Builders and Contractors, a national

trade newspaper targeted directly at New Zealand's building and construction industry.

For some time we were aware that, although the building and related trades were generally covered individually by some trade journals, there was no amalgamated news link for trades as a whole, especially on a nationwide basis.

leaders and decision makers: government & trade organisations, site safe members, business owners and professionals in the industry.

This void has been successfully filled by Builders & Contractors. Distribution is by way of various outlets: PlaceMakers, Mitre 10, Builders Hardware, I.T.M., Carters, Site Safe Members, Home Ideas Centre, timber companies, hire companies, together with our database direct mail drop to architects, draughting professionals, consulting engineers, building consultants, designers and local Councils. By these means we aim to reach one of the most powerful buying groups in the industry.

Nationwide Distribution: Mailed directly

Disclaimer

to a carefully maintained list of decision makers and subscribers for 25 years.

FREE distribution maximises readership 4 | B&C - Issue #130

Scaffolding solutions to suit anyone

95:

Future-proofing the industry – technology and heavy construction equipment

Maintaining safe scaffold practices Apex Roof N Clad – Northland’s go-to roofing company

102: Waste-to-landfill - what’s best

practice in New Zealand today?

110: BOP Plumbing & Gas wins

top award

116: Making homeownership in Queenstown affordable

Page: 21

Editor

Readers: Construction/building industry

88: 90: 92:

Page: 52

JonathonTaylor

Published Quarterly/Nationwide Distribution

Best practice guidelines for mobile elevating work platforms

Paton Roofing Services – investing in people and equipment

120: Clubs NZ – a hub of the community

Crane Awards

As always, we thank all our columnists for their expertise, along with the views, opinions and predictions of all those who contributed, to help you manage the risks your face each and every day.

84:

76: Superior standard for 2021

A higher standard of roofing

48: Culham Engineering has added many

78: 81:

Does your company have any exciting projects or products you would like to feature in an upcoming edition of Builders & Contractors?

Please contact us to discuss: Editorial:

Jonathon Taylor Phone: (03) 961 5098 editor@academygroup.co.nz PO Box 1879, Christchurch, 8041

Production:

Jarred Shakespeare Phone: (03) 961 5088 jarred@academygroup.co.nz

Sales Manager:

Monice Kruger Phone: (03) 961 5083 sales@academygroup.co.nz

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This publication is provided on the basis that AMark Publishing NZ Ltd is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. AMark Publishing NZ Ltd expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2017 by AMark Publishing NZ Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 5

Viewpoints

What happens when your building company goes down the slippery slope?

By Geoff Hardy, an Auckland commercial lawyer.

If you’re doing anything more complex than home handyman jobs, then construction is a risky business.

If you have to commit to a fixed price on bigger new builds, renovations, or infrastructure projects, then you run the risk of having under-priced the job. If you are doing it on a cost reimbursement basis then you run the risk of major budget blowouts.

The Mainzeal litigation The Mainzeal case was a little different from Debut Homes, in that the company could have been salvaged if the directors had acted decisively.

Either of these can result in tensions with your client and ultimately unpaid invoices and expensive disputes. Sometimes these make such a big hole in your cash flow that you can’t pay your bills as they fall due. And when you get to that stage, technically you are insolvent.

When you become insolvent, several things typically happen.

Your subbies withdraw their labour, your suppliers put you on stop credit, and both of them hound you for payment. Your bank and landlord get twitchy. You can’t progress the build as promptly as you need to, which causes your client to stop paying. You use deposits and progress payments from newer projects to pay the suppliers and subcontractors on the problematic ones.

And your more aggressive creditors serve statutory demands on you.

What is a Statutory Demand? It is a form that your creditors can give you under the Companies Act that gives you 15 working days to pay their debt, otherwise your company is deemed to be insolvent.

Failure to pay in time enables the creditor to apply to the court to put your company into liquidation. That takes a few months to achieve, and there are various defences you can raise, but the application to liquidate your company becomes public knowledge at a very early stage.

You can take comfort in the fact that statutory demands can only be used for undisputed debts, so unless you have conceded that the debt is payable, then you can always dispute it. But in the meantime, if you want to stop the word getting out then you only get 10 working days to apply to the court to shut the whole thing down, and that costs a lot.

What else can happen to you when you become insolvent?

When your bank learns of your difficulties it can put your company in receivership. That means that all your company’s income is syphoned off until the bank’s debt is paid, and usually liquidation follows after that.

Your bank, your landlord and some suppliers will hold personal guarantees from you, and they will call those up if your company 6 | B&C - Issue #130

The Court of Appeal acknowledged that directors could allow their company to continue trading while technically insolvent for a limited time, but they had to take meaningful and realistic steps to turn it around. defaults in payment. You might be comforted by the fact that you have your personal assets in trust, but they can still bankrupt you, in which case you lose a lot of freedom and most of your non-trust assets.

The consequences of liquidation What are the consequences of the liquidation of your company? Well for a start, you lose control of it. The bank and any other secured creditors take most of the assets, and the liquidators convert the rest into cash. The liquidators distribute the cash to the preferential creditors (themselves, the employees, the IRD, etc.) and any surplus to the unsecured creditors. The company then ceases to exist.

What else can the liquidators do? They can terminate any unprofitable contracts, and they can bring to an end any claim against the company and prevent anyone from suing it.

In certain circumstances they can group all your companies together and combine their assets. They can call up your shareholder loan account, and if you have looked after yourself or any particular creditors at the expense of the other creditors, they can reverse those transactions and claw back any payments made in the six months prior to liquidation while the company was insolvent.

What’s more, they can take action against you if you have breached any of your director’s duties under the Companies Act. That is exactly what happened in two construction company collapses in New Zealand, one of which was massive (Mainzeal Property and Construction Ltd) and the other relatively minor (Debut Homes Ltd). They illustrate that directors can be held to account no matter how large or small the company is. The Debut Homes case went all the way up to our Supreme Court,

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

and Mainzeal was the subject of a recent judgment from our Court of Appeal. This is what we can learn from them.

They could take some time to explore all realistic alternative courses of action to try to avoid an insolvent liquidation.

Debut Homes v Cooper

If they were actively engaged in seeking advice and attempting to address the company’s problems, they could not be criticised and would not be exposed to liability. But the time to throw in the towel was when all reasonable options had been exhausted and it was obvious that there was no reasonable prospect of the company pulling through.

Debut Homes was a residential developer, and Mr. Cooper was a shareholder and the sole director. By October 2012 he knew it was in trouble, and the shortfall to the IRD was likely to be $300,000.

Notwithstanding this he elected to complete all current projects that the company was engaged in. To be fair to him, he tried very hard to salvage the company, but it was all to no avail. 17 months later the IRD got the company placed into liquidation, and by that time it was owed $450,000 in GST. Debut had completed and sold various homes, but Mr. Cooper decided where the proceeds went. He favoured the secured creditors who were holding personal guarantees from him, as well as his family trust, at the expense of the IRD. As a result, and because he had breached three of the directors’ duties under the Companies Act, he was ordered to pay $280,000 into the company, and $280,000 of the secured debt owed to the family trustees became unsecured instead. This was on top of the court costs and legal fees he had already incurred.

The Court said that once he knew Debut had no hope of returning to solvency and there would inevitably be a shortfall to one or more creditors, Mr. Cooper should not have decided to continue to complete the developments.

He could have put the company into liquidation. He could have invited the BNZ to put it into receivership. Or he could have gone for a creditors’ compromise, a scheme of arrangement, or a voluntary administration.

I expect both of these cases will serve as a wake-up call to directors of large building companies, particularly professional directors who don’t have a fortune tied up in the company and who have plenty of opportunities to earn a good living elsewhere.

Those directors are likely to pull the pin earlier than smaller owner/operators. But for the smaller owner/operators, I can’t help thinking that these are unrealistic expectations of human beings who are desperate to salvage their only source of income and ever-optimistic that their fortunes will change given enough time.

I suspect that they are more likely to take the risk regardless, and simply pay the penalty if it all comes unstuck.

Geoff Hardy has 46 years’ experience as a commercial lawyer and is a partner in the Auckland firm Martelli McKegg. He guarantees personal attention to new clients at competitive rates. His phone number is (09) 379 0700, fax (09) 309 4112, and e-mail geoff@martellimckegg.co.nz.

This article is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 7

Viewpoints

Variations

By Marcus Beveridge and Tina Hwang

The word “variation” will often trigger deep concern and red flags for those actively engaged in the construction sector. Stakeholders do not like the uncertainty it brings.

Lawyers and consultants are often walking on eggshells in these circumstances.

Contractors fear variations may not be approved or paid, and principal owners fear that the price of the contract will increase.

Lenders want assurance that the project will be finished under budget.

We recall one owner who naively and persistently misused the term “variation” to refer to general amendments to a working draft construction contract, making the lawyers and consultants nervous.

He was told to never use that word again in fear of jinxing the project. We are unsure whether he ever understood the humour.

The word forever has a negative connotation in the industry with parties wanting to avoid this wherever possible.

However, there are some contractors who will intentionally pitch a low price to win the contract and immediately issue copious variation orders.

What is a variation?

The term variation is not expressly defined in the Building Act 2004 (the BA) or the Construction Contracts Act 2002 (the CCA).

However, the BA defines “minor variations” under section 7 as “a minor modification, addition, or variation to a building consent that is permitted by regulations made

under section 402(1)(kd)” which then takes you to section 45A “minor variations to building consents”.

This section sets out compliance obligations on minor variations and is not particularly helpful to determine a variation.

The commonly used NZS 3910:2013 terms states variations are “a Variation to the Contract Works pursuant to 9.1 and any other matter which is stated to be a Variation or to be treated as a Variation by the Contract” which again makes the term quite circular.

Variations in the construction industry are generally regarded as an amendment to the agreed scope of works.

This is unfortunately a common occurrence throughout a construction project and therefore a contentious area.

What can be claimed as a variation?

Clause 9.1 of the NZS 3910:2013 permits the following variations to the scope of the Contract: • Increase or decrease the quantity of any work • Omit any work • Change the character or quality of any material or work • Require additional work to be done • Change the level, line, position, or dimensions of any part of the contract works.

However, many construction contracts are laced with pages of special conditions to try to define, limit, control and manage variations throughout the project.

Each contract will dictate what can and cannot be treated as a variation.

Further controversy arises when determining whether a variation is a “principal-drivenvariation” which typically includes principal requests to amend the plans/specifications after the contract, amendments to drawings, and regulatory obligations by the local council or the building code.

The former is relatively straightforward.

Where a principal elects a betterment (for instance choosing the Bosch or Miele appliances over a standard supply), this results from a conscious decision and the value of the variation is visible as the superior items are installed.

However, where a material is unable to be obtained due to no fault or choice by the principal, a dispute could arise, so it is important to clarify from the beginning who is entitled to make the decision to alter the plans/specifications, and who bears the risks of the associated costs.

For some lucky parties, this type of variation could result in a cost saving.

The latter examples of drawing amendments or regulatory changes complicates matters however, particularly for residential owners who do not understand why they need to pay extra when no express variation was authorised and there is no betterment as a result.

Cost escalations, delays (particularly caused by the owner’s subcontractors or works) and unforeseen costs/delays due to soil or asbestos issues are further areas requiring careful consideration.

How can you avoid variations?

Variations are ultimately another form of risk allocation.

When things do not go according to plan, who bears the risks? This only highlights the importance of clear and well drafted construction documentation.

"

Further controversy arises when determining whether a variation is a “principal-drivenvariation” which typically includes principal requests to amend the plans/specifications after the contract, amendments to drawings, and regulatory obligations by the local council or the building code.

"

All parties must clearly understand the risk allocations before a project commences to avoid unnecessary disputes about who should bear the extra costs of a variation.

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

Professional advice should be always be sought before any decision or action is taken.

WITH MORE THAN 50 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR WE ARE WELL AWARE OF THE NEEDS OF THE INDUSTRY.

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www.securescaffold.co.nz | 0800 66 00 22 8 | B&C - Issue #130

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Viewpoints

Is technology the answer to construction industry challenges Tony Simonsen, Chief Operating Officer of Payapps.

In the wake of COVID-19 the construction industry is experiencing huge changes in how employees and businesses operate.

More than ever organisations must look to invest in technology solutions if they expect to sustain a robust workforce and survive boom and bust cycles.

New Zealand has long been prone to these cycles, with volatility coming down to external and internal system factors.

The New Zealand Centre for Advanced Engineering (CAENZ) states the construction industry fails mostly due to internal issues, including poor communication within the supply chain, lack of visibility of future orders, inability to plan around resources and skilled workers, and delays in approval and procurement systems.

Leaders are embracing digital solutions to resolve these issues, and the coming five years will mark a new wave of innovation in the construction industry.

With an estimated $10 trillion being spent on construction related goods and services each year, these changes will have a farreaching impact on the global economy.

A new generation of leaders look for innovative solutions According to a recent whitepaper by Frost & Sullivan conducted for Payapps titled Connecting the Construction Workplace of the Future Digital Transformation & Collaboration in the Construction Industry, 90 percent of general contractors are either privately or family-owned businesses.

The whitepaper finds that in the past five years millennials have been taking over their family-owned construction businesses.

Increasingly, these new and younger leaders are re-evaluating their company’s IT priorities, driving technology updates, and implementing construction management solutions to drive efficiency and productivity.

especially as real-time insights become a greater priority.

Under new leadership, one trend taking hold across the industry is greater investment into bring your own device (BYOD) initiatives, as employees rely more heavily on mobile tools including smartphones, tablets and other personal devices.

To combat challenges more companies are adopting digital tools, with 73 percent of respondents stating they are leveraging cloud computing software and services.

Overall, Frost & Sullivan finds that the millennial workforce of construction companies are looking for tools that enable teams to work together in a collaborative, mobile, secure, reliable and seamless way.

As a result, project environments are utilising multiple solutions and software across design, ideation, pre-construction, contract management, supply chain management, payment solutions and resource planning.

Digital transformation driven by challenges The tipping point for the adoption of new solutions is occurring against a backdrop of growing challenges.

Frost & Sullivan finds that the top challenge for the Australia and New Zealand market is project delays, with 56 percent of survey respondents citing this as number one.

This was followed by supply chain disruptions (48 percent), rising input costs (47 percent), labour shortages (45 percent), workforce productivity challenges (42 percent) and work practice challenges (39 percent).

Overall, the analysts find that many construction companies are struggling with legacy and manual systems, for instance pen and paper or spreadsheets.

The sheer volume of data being collected at job sites makes these systems unsustainable,

Technology solutions used to resolve issues

Enterprise resource planning (ERP), big data and analytics, and supply chain management solutions are being more readily adopted to achieve management of bulk data and information sharing, better analysis and decision making, greater standardisation, and resiliency to threats and interruptions.

Automated payment systems using cloud-based tools are helping the construction industry to handle payments from a single interface.

This results in a number of benefits, including improving credibility for paying vendors on time and helping to attract high quality contractors, enabling project and accounts teams to have a clear and accurate trail of reports, enabling team members to approve claims onsite, and helping to meet regulatory requirements.

Parkview Constructions, an Australian construction firm that manages projects across the property market value chain, implemented the Payapps cloud collaboration tool to assess and approve progress claims submitted by their subcontractors.

This proved to reduce operational cost for the company as stakeholders could assess claims on any device and minimise the risk of receiving late claims from their supply chain.

The adoption of Payapps has also increased operational reliability due to the consistency, transparency, flexibility and user-friendly features of the platform.

Another example is with Fabcon Structural, an Australia-based subcontracting firm.

The company used to prepare progress claims in MS Word, record financials in Xero once approved values were confirmed, and maintain separate spreadsheets to track outstanding payments.

Fabcon Structural found Payapps simplified progress claims as well as financial and payments reporting, and provided benefits for both the builders and subcontractors.

The construction industry to 2030 According to Ravi Krishnaswamy, Senior VP at Frost & Sullivan, we will continue to see digital transformation initially driven by virtual platforms that enable collaboration and streamlining of processes for business leaders, contractors and subcontractors.

From here, we will see the industry more readily adopting other advanced technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality, internet of things wireless monitoring and connected equipment, autonomous machinery, 3D scanning and photogrammetry, 3D printing and additive manufacturing, prefabrication and modular construction, drones and artificial intelligence (AI).

In fact, forward thinking organisations are already utilising drones for surveillance and mapping, AI for more effective trend analysis and decision making, and automation to reduce the amount of manual and repetitive tasks for employees.

We hear fears that robots will replace construction roles. However, we think these fears are unfounded.

As time goes on, we expect machines and men to work alongside one another, with main and subcontractors putting more focus on project management, strategy and business development to empower the industry as a whole.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 9

Workdek

Reaching new heights of productivity Builders have always faced huge workloads and tight deadlines. The building industry is under more pressure now than ever and this doesn’t look set to change anytime soon.

Other inferior, competitive systems either don’t focus on preventing accidents on-site and/or are limited in their features to help builders to work more efficiently. Thanks to Workdek, the industry now has the ultimate tool to improve productivity, agility, efficiency and safety.

With this increased and consistent pressure on construction, employers and teams are looking for solutions to enhance efficiency while ensuring safety remains paramount.

Workdek is a platform system that allows builders to work quickly, efficiently and safely, at any height. The decking system is so sturdy, it’s like working on stable ground. A simple but strong and robust platform system, Workdek was created for builders by builders. Its strength is in its solid, modular construction system that can be easily configured to work on any building site.

Rugged and reliable, and easy to install

Counterproductive nets and safety hazards can now be a thing of the past. With Workdek, this stable, modular platform allows builders to work twice as fast at whatever height is needed. With the capacity to hold 250 kilograms on each deck, Workdek lets workers to take their tools and machinery with them as they go, contributing to increased productivity.

With Workdek, this stable, modular platform allows builders to work twice as fast at whatever height is needed.

With the capacity to hold 250 kilograms on each deck, Workdek lets workers to take their tools and machinery with them as they go, contributing to increased productivity.

Build better, faster and safer Workdek supplies modular, stable work platforms to builders who need to work effectively without hindrance at any height.

Preventing the fall is better than capturing the fall. Working on the Workdek platform is as stable and fast as working on the ground. The added benefit is significantly reduced stresses on the body and a happier work crew.

Twice as fast, at any height With Workdek, builders can work twice as fast as builders on sites that have inferior, competing products. Teams can build with a sense of urgency without fear of falling.

Doubling building speed without doubling staff results in enhanced productivity, which leads to increased profitability.

10 | B&C - Issue #130

Workdek’s modular platforms are made from injection moulded panels that snap together creating a stable work platform at any building height. The decks are supported by a complete system that’s as easy to put together as playing with Lego.

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

Work anywhere, anytime, safely Because builders are on solid ground at any height with Workdek, they can find their footing without thinking about it. This means that work can be completed at speed without hassle, because the crew can walk anywhere and take their tools and machinery with them.

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

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

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

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Other inferior, competitive systems either don’t focus on preventing accidents onsite and/or are limited in their features to help builders to work more efficiently.

Thanks to Workdek, the industry now has the ultimate tool to improve productivity, agility, efficiency and safety.

Workdek lets builders build more properties because their productivity increases by at least 50%. This becomes a huge asset in the environment of the Covid-19 construction boom.

Common feedback from builders who have used Workdek on their builds include: • “This is an absolute game changer!”

• “With Workdek, we’re now working twice as fast.”

• “We’re now more efficient and my team is guaranteed not to fall.”

It’s clear that adding Workdek to a builder’s toolkit really is a smart solution.

Get Workdek working for you By working more efficiently and literally adding more builds to their schedule, builders can safely make more money with Workdek. Workdek is now being hired and sold to scaffolding companies, builders and large construction companies who quickly see what a powerful tool Workdek is for their teams.

Get your hands on it then get your feet on it There is a better way to build on all building site levels, quickly, safely and more profitably. Workdek allows builders to work faster and safer. It really is a no brainer. To learn more and get started with Workdek, visit www.workdek.com

Workdek

workdek.com

Installation is as easy as playing with Lego

Faster.

Safer.

No brainer.

Workdek is a platform system that allows you to work quickly, efficiently and safely, at any height. So stable it feels like working on solid ground, you can confidently walk about with your tools and machinery on hand. Elevate your productivity, improve the performance of your crew and eliminate the risk of falls. It really is a no brainer.

Get your hands on it. Then get your feet on it.

Call: 0800 3255 7233

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 11

Technology

Machine learning and the future of construction Machine learning (ML) in the construction industry has come a long way in terms of understanding what can be achieved using data science.

We’ve seen increases in its capabilities to process big data through distributed computing, as well as the emergence of Machine Learning as a Service (MLaaS), from leading cloud providers including Oracle, to democratise artificial intelligence (AI).

We are only beginning to scratch the surface of ML-driven possibilities in the construction industry.

But are industry professionals and project managers ready to embrace it?

Data is the key Data is the lifeblood for any AI and ML strategy to work, and while many construction businesses have data available to them, not many realise its full potential.

This data, traced from previous projects and activities, and collected over several years, can become the source of data that ML models require for training.

Models can use this existing data repository to train on, and then compare against, a validation test before it is used for real world prediction scenarios.

Model accuracy can improve with not just more of the same data but also greater amounts of different data.

Often called feature selection, the vast amount of data from different systems allows identification “markers” of project success and delays, contributing to building ML models with greater accuracy than was possible before.

Machine learning in construction The industry boasts many emerging use-cases of ML, in particular ideas that will positively impact important industry-specific metrics – schedule, budget, quality, safety and risk.

Data and ML is being used to change the status-quo across all these key dimensions.

Computer vision is being used to solve problems such as identifying progress on site, tracking delivery of materials, understanding movement of labour and material on-site, as well as ensuring compliance of physical distancing rules on construction sites.

The application of ML techniques to unstructured data derived from videos and photos is becoming increasingly pervasive in solving several use-cases that were often tricky to solve previously.

Use of natural-language processing (NLP) is also now being deployed for use-cases that should reduce manual error, improve productivity, and mitigate risks.

For example, NLP is being used to track submittals required for different jobs, identify non-standard terms in a contract, highlight a potential HSE issue, or escalate the risk of an upcoming change request.

These allow contractors and owners to better plan and respond to situations.

The use of ML for predicting schedule delays and costblowouts is another area where it really helps, particularly as there is a lot of prior data on schedule and budget performance which can be used as training data to make predictions.

Karthik Venkatasubramanian; Vice president of data and analytics at Oracle Construction and Engineering.

Schedules and budgets are becoming smart by incorporating ML-driven recommendations, supply chain selection is becoming smart by using data across disparate systems and comparing performance, also risk planning is getting smart by using ML to identify and quantify risks from the past that might have a bearing on the present.

The future As smartification drives datafication, AI driven transformation will naturally happen as companies begin to question how to leverage all the data that they have.

The cost of ML is already decreasing with infrastructure that leverages pay-as-you-go models in the cloud.

New tools are democratising ML to the non-data scientists by way of drag-drop modelling, visualising predictions and simplifying the creation of easy to consume insights.

As ML is made more available across the industry, the next five years will see a significant uptake in this technology being adopted as part of ongoing digital transformation efforts.

Retention instrument solution for construction contractors A leading New Zealand insurance broker, Aon, has launched a new service that enables construction contractors to free up funds that would normally be retained in trust during commercial projects.

Traditionally, retention money withheld under commercial construction contracts must be held on trust in the form of cash, or other liquid assets readily converted into cash, unless a complying instrument is purchased.

Aon’s Retention Instrument is the first fully compliant service available in New Zealand which provides an alternative to holding subcontractor’s retentions on trust, enabling those acting as head contractors to legitimately use these funds within their business.

The Retention Instrument complies with the Construction Contracts Act (CCA) and works by securing a specific dollar amount of retentions so that it is not necessary to hold the cash or liquid asset on trust for the benefit of subcontractors.

Retention regime review The release of the Retention Instrument is timely following a recent MBIE review of the retention money regime within the CCA. The Construction Contracts (Retention Money) Amendment Bill was introduced into Parliament for consideration and passed its first reading on June 8, 2021. The Bill is intended to address some of the shortcomings of the current retention money regime.

Some proposed changes being introduced by the Bill include: • The contractor must hold retentions in a separate bank account, if not utilising a complying instrument. This

means contractors cannot use this cash in their business as additional cashflow • The contractor must advise their subcontractors quarterly as to how the retentions are being secured (as opposed to currently, where the subcontractor is able to ask at any time) • There will be offences and penalties if the contractor fails to hold a retention: on trust, in a separate bank account; or through a complying financial instrument.

The proposed maximum fine is up to $200,000 for entities and up to $50,000 for individuals.

Advantages of a retention instrument • Administered by an independent licensed insurer • Compiles with the proposed changes introduced to the CCA under the Construction Contracts (Retention Money) Amendment Bill • Frees up cash. Retention cash does not have to be held • Provides independent evidence to the subcontractor, by way of a certificate issued by the insurer in compliance with the CCA • Subcontractors can have confidence that their retentions are safe when they are secured by a Retention Instrument

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Issue #130 - B&C | 13

News

Getting things moving Supply chain transformation cited as the biggest productivity opportunity for the construction industry post Covid

A survey of Australian and New Zealand construction companies by industry analysts Frost & Sullivan has identified supply chain transformation and overcoming roadblocks as key future shifts for the billion-dollar sector, as it builds stronger foundations post COVID-19.

Frost & Sullivan released its survey findings in a whitepaperentitled Connecting the Construction Workplace of the Future: Digital Transformation & Collaboration in the Construction Industry.

The report details insights into challenges and opportunities facing the construction sector, a critical indicator of New Zealand’s economic health given its significant contribution to GDP. The findings were based on a survey of project and operation directors, engineering managers, IT managers, CTOs and CIOs across New Zealand as well as Australia and the UK. Frost & Sullivan identified five future shifts likely to impact the construction workplace of the future in the NZ (and Australian) markets.

The top five shifts were: 1. Supply chain transformation and overcoming roadblocks (55 percent) 2. New materials (52percent) 3. Off-site construction (42percent) 4. Needs and requirements of employees (42percent) 5. Sustainability-driven changes (41percent).

Frost & Sullivan found that construction firms continue to face significant challenges, including operating with a heavy dependence 14 | B&C - Issue #130

on manual labour, mechanical and outdated technology, and rigid operating and business models resulting in low productivity.

Those able to adapt faster and reduce their cost base are more likely to experience greater productivity.

Inherent factors to productivity stagnation include inadequate planning and scheduling leading to delays and backlogs; idle time spent waiting for materials and equipment; and lack of collaboration and communication between stakeholders leading to job fragmentation, inefficient contract approaches and disputes over claims.

Along with the aim of reducing operating costs, increasing competitiveness and reliability of operations, and income growth, 47 percent of organisations are looking to improve contractor relationships and outcomes through digital transformation.

This, in turn, is leading to greater digital transformation in the industry with those leaning on technology are removing pain-points.

As one example, the analysts found mature construction companies are increasingly investing in the automation of back-office processes and generating a more positive return on investment by innovating what are traditionally complex, cumbersome, and manual tasks - such as the management of progress claims across the supply chain.

For instance, 73 percent of the survey respondents for the Frost & Sullivan whitepaper are leveraging cloud computing software and services in 2021 for operational support.

Digital tools remain under-utilised, with around 30 percent of surveyed respondents using spreadsheets and similar applications for payment data management systems, but cloud and software-as-a-service solutions that provide payment options on a flexible basis, are becoming increasingly popular.

Speaking to the survey findings, Ravi Krishnaswamy, Senior VP at Frost & Sullivan says, “Digitisation will play a big role in the transformation of the construction

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sector with many companies still operating inefficient manual processes.

“There are a lot of strategies and plans, and one of the concepts that has gained a lot of ground in recent years is lean construction.

“This is the general concept of co-locating project participants, general contractor, designer, sub-contractors, in one single room - aka virtual platforms. This is clearly the way forward and is an obvious way to create value for the end user and customer.”

"

As we move forward, we’ll continue to see significant changes taking place, even with the next two to three years dictating how key stakeholders will utilise the likes of AI to advance operations.

"

Ravi also highlights technology tools impacting the industry at large. “The industry is taking steps towards full autonomy as the likes of AR and IoT, autonomous machinery, prefab and 3D solutions, become mainstream.

“Drones are already being extensively used for monitoring - specifically for security and maintenance purposes.

“As we move forward, we’ll continue to see significant changes taking place, even with the next two to three years dictating how key stakeholders will utilise the likes of AI to advance operations.

“The inherently competitive nature of the construction industry and technological

advancements in adjacent industries are expected to push the industry toward automated solutions by 2030. Although the path to machine and man coexisting requires work from both the company and technology side.”

Payapps chief operating officer, Tony Simonsen, says the findings demonstrate the construction sector is undergoing significant change to build stronger foundations for the future.

“In the NZ market, the survey found the major influencing factors driving digital transformation in construction are the need to reduce operational costs, increase competitiveness and ensure their operations are reliable.

“Like all businesses, construction firms are seeking to achieve income growth, but for those awarded contracts, improving contractor relationships and outcomes is vital as they move out of a COVID-19 environment and towards a more sustainable future.

“In construction, time is money, and solutions that allow for connectivity or a platform that promotes interoperability is a more cost-effective way forward.

“Easy integration of data that allows for data analytics is crucial to reduce the arduous nature of the process and performance management functions,” Tony says.

The whitepaper also details that the introduction of cloud-based automated payment systems using cloud-based tools is helping construction industry players handle progress payments from a single interface.

Tony concludes, “Paying vendors on time is key to attracting top-notch sub-contractors to bid for projects and enabling project and accounts teams to streamline the management of payment claims, onsite, saving considerable time and money and freeing up staff to focus on higher value tasks.”

BCITO

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 15

MegaForm Building Systems

MegaForm building systems MegaForm ICF is quickly becoming the most innovative building product that offers homeowners high performance, energy efficient and affordable quality homes with architectural advantages.

Philip Blair is the director & designer of MegaForm ICF. With over 35 years of experience in the construction industry working alongside architects, building architectural homes and commercial buildings, Philip has the knowledge in building and an appetite for innovation.

MegaForm ICF use the next generation of insulated ICF systems (Insulate Construction Formwork). The large 1200 x 400 MegaForm block has 65mm fire retardant polystyrene blocks available in a wide variety of sizes for residential and commercial buildings.

The blocks lock together with both vertical and horizontal reinforced steel running through the centre of the blocks. Once the right wall height is constructed, concrete is poured in providing a solid reinforced concrete wall. The concrete & steel provides the structural integrity, high acoustic and

fire ratings while the polystyrene provides a consistent R4 insulation throughout your home. Studies have found that ICF walls preformed better than cavity walls even when continuous insulation is used. As the building industry continues to search for more energy efficient building materials it should be noted that MegaForm ICF walls demonstrate a strong historical track record. They perform better than cavity walls, maintain their R Value over time, and consistently resist temperature fluctuation because of the stored energy.

MegaForm ICF structures require less overall energy to heat and cool, and the longer time required to reach steady state “ flattens the temperature curve” delivering safety, comfort and less cost to the end user.

Studies have found that ICF walls preformed better than cavity walls even when continuous insulation is used.

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Turners Group Ltd Turners Trucks & Machinery is the largest buyer and seller of trucks & machinery in New Zealand.

A key division of the Turners Auto Retail Group which sold more than $540M in assets to over 25,000 customers in 2020.

Turners Trucks & Machinery has a dedicated team of more than 40 staff spread across 10 branches from Whangarei to Invercargill.

Fifty years is a long time to be in business.

Many other businesses have come and gone, technology has moved ahead in leaps and bounds and the way people buy and sell has become more sophisticated. But for all the change, much has stayed the same.

Good people, good service and satisfied customers are still the mainstays of a successful business.

The team at Turners is focused on getting the best outcomes for both sellers and buyers.

Using the best sales channel for the asset – be it auction, online auction, tender or retail, the team aims to put sellers and buyers together. The mantra of the team is to ‘make it easy’ for customers - because customers remain the focus and always will be.

With a huge database of the industry to call upon and a website that gets more

than 6,000 unique visitors every week to the commercial pages – if you need your gear turned into cash or are looking for to buy good quality assets for your next job – you can’t go past the team at Turners Trucks and Machinery.

The mantra of the team is to ‘make it easy’ for customers – because customers remain the focus and always will be.

NZ’s largest buyer & seller of trucks & machinery We have hundreds of assets for sale at turnerstrucks.co.nz

If you’re after value from a team you can trust, visit any one of our 10 branches nationwide, talk to our team on 0800 GET TRUCKS, or journey through our website turnerstrucks.co.nz to find what you’re looking for.

There’s several auctions every week and a range of gear available with a buy now price on it.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 17

News

Are Kiwi companies really ready to g cashless?

When the World Health Organisation recommended that people should use cashless transactions to reduce the risk of COVID transmission, many companies listened.

But even before the pandemic, there was no question that cash was on the decline.

The digital world we live in today has changed the way we function – almost everything is online and easily accessible.

People expect a quick turnaround and more businesses are changing their model to suit the consumer.

Auckland Ika Bowl managing director, Ra Beazley is just one of many who made the move to go cashless after he could see that the majority of his customers were happier paying with their card.

Offering fast, in and out service suited the company’s business model so it was an easy decision for him to go cash free.

“The difference between normal places and us is we predominantly serve a corporate clientele, so our whole trade was pretty much around them.

18 | B&C - Issue #130

“We want people in and out and that’s the same thing that they expect from us, they want something quick – in and out, no mucking around, a card is super easy for them so that’s what we did.”

While the company had a few people complain here and there when they first went cashless, Ra says they haven’t had any pushback since.

Their Auckland Fish Market location was the same – while they offered cash payments during COVID, it didn’t take long for Ra to realise it wasn’t worth it after only having a few cash sales.

“There was no point, we were getting like $10 sales of cash a day or $20 sales and you have to pull that out every morning and you have to make sure that you’re managing it properly and you have to go to the bank, there’s a whole bunch of stresses with that so we got rid of it.

“Especially because tourism wasn’t around then and tourists are predominantly the ones that spend with cash.”

For Addington Coffee Co-op in Christchurch, due to their customer demographic it wasn’t a change they were looking at implementing in the near future, front of house manager Naomi Hugill says.

“We have a lot of beautiful regulars throughout the week who do prefer using

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cash and we have such a variety at the moment in our café of all different ages and business people and all that kind of stuff that it just means that we want to cater to all those different people,” Naomi says.

“If we became a bit more niche or it was a certain group of people that came in then we would tailor it to them.”

Naomi says at a guess about 10-15 percent of customers would currently pay with cash.

While they weren’t looking at going cashless anytime soon, it was something that was on their radar.

“It’s a maybe but not a definite.”

Something that Addington Coffee Co-op however has changed to make the service process easier for their customers is offering payWave.

where most of their outlets on campus are now cashless.

The Dunedin campus shops and cafes trialed going cashless in July 2020 post-lockdown to offer a more hygienic, efficient and faster service and reduce the risk of contamination associated with cash.

The trial was so successful the university decided to keep it, with only a few of their outlets still offering card payments.

Otago University student Arnie Johnson says it hadn’t really affected her because she always used her card to pay anyway.

“I like things being cashless as I almost always pay for things using my card. I haven’t really noticed a shift as from my memory I’ve always been able to use my card on campus which is really practical for me.”

The company originally didn’t have payWave before COVID because of the costs associated with it.

She believed a lot of the younger generation didn’t use cash as payment, as cash payments were not as common as they used to be.

Since COVID other businesses have stopped accepting cash including Otago University

“Especially being able to use your card on your phone as well.”

News

Kiwi business 'can do better' when it comes to work- place wellbeing Construction workplaces rate 55 out of 100 in New Zealand’s first Work Wellbeing Index Offer all the fruit bowls you like but it’s going to take more than that to lift employee wellbeing.

This is the message from Skills Consulting Group general manager of wellbeing, Jane Kennelly.

Jane is fronting a new Work Wellbeing Index, the first of its kind for New Zealand, which reveals fruit bowls and yoga classes are perceived by staff as evidence of an insincere ‘box-ticking’ mentality – and that Kiwi businesses have plenty of room for improvement when it comes to wellbeing in the workplace.

According to the Skills Consulting Group Work Wellbeing Index, which surveyed nearly 1,500 Kiwi workers, New Zealand has an overall work wellbeing score of 62 out of 100, with construction coming in at 55.

The Index measures what’s really important to Kiwi workers in the workplace; what contributes to their workplace wellbeing; and if they feel their current organisation has a wellbeing culture.

It measures existing wellbeing initiatives in Kiwi workplaces, providing a path to improvement.

“We know that work wellbeing is important – that’s a no-brainer,” Jane says. “The Work Wellbeing Index takes that discussion to a new level and quantifies exactly where we are at in New Zealand workplaces and sets a benchmark for improvement.”

Demonstrating ‘genuine care’ has the biggest positive impact on workplace culture, the data exposed a significant gap that exists between what employees expect and what employers offer in this area.

“Organisations that show genuine care for their managers and colleagues, as opposed to the tick-box approach, are clearly identified as coming out on top.

“Sixty three percent of employees said a positive wellbeing culture is number one when looking for a role, yet employers are falling short, with workers saying only 40% of their employers actually meet their needs.

“Workers are saying bosses talk about wellbeing because they have to so they put communal fruit bowls on the table -

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but what employers are not seeing, are people ducking from the bananas that are thrown around the office.”

Jane says the study found employee satisfaction levels can increase by as much as 11 percent if an organisation has a proactive wellbeing culture.

“And the best news, that all employers want to hear, is that as satisfaction increases so too does productivity.”

The Work Wellbeing Index also looks outside of the workplace and into people’s personal lives –showing a clear link between the way people feel at work and their personal life.

“Intriguingly, we see that as satisfaction in the workplace increases, so does employee’s overall satisfaction with life, jumping from 36 percent to 85 percent.

“We know there’s a blurring between peoples’ work and personal lives, and this research is showing us that cultivating a work wellbeing culture can play a vital part in impacting a person’s life,” she says.

Skills Consulting Group general manager of wellbeing, Jane Kennelly.

Demographically the results were similar, however the Work Wellbeing Index did see differences across sectors, with employees in education and healthcare scoring below the national score of 62.

Construction fared the lowest with a score of 55, however manufacturing scored highest with 70.

Skills Consulting Group Work Wellbeing Index - by sector (New Zealand) National wellbeing score Construction/trades Retail Education Healthcare Hospitality Manufacturing Professional Services Government

62 55 61 59 59 61 70 64 68

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Issue #130 - B&C | 19

Bluebeam

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20 | B&C - Issue #130

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News

Builders celebrate emerging talent and discuss critical industry issues More than 800 builders and industry stakeholders attended this year’s New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) Annual Conference and Expo in Wellington.

New Zealand’s top carpentry apprentice was named at the event, a celebration of emerging talent at a time when the sector faces a skills shortage among a number of other pressures.

South Canterbury’s Marc Palmer, aged 21, won the coveted title in the national final of the NZCB Apprentice Challenge, sponsored

by ITM, after competing against 18 other regional finalists from across the country.

Lucile Richardson (21) from Waikato placed second, and Ryan Whitburn (27) from Otago placed third, among a diverse line-up of finalists that represented the changing face of New Zealand’s trades, with a record number of women competing and a number of older apprentices who have started their carpentry career later in life.

The event was part of a three-day conference which presented an opportunity for attendees to look at the sector’s most pressing issues under the lens of sustainability – for the environment, their businesses and the trade itself.

NZCB chief executive Grant Florence says the future-focussed event examined changes to the regulatory environment, pressures and trends in the residential housing market, innovations in the ‘green’ building space and the skills pipeline into the trade.

Cancer Society chief executive Lucy Elwood with NZCB Apprentice Challenge manager Nick Matthews.

“This is a challenging time for the sector, with pressures mounting in terms of building supplies and skills shortages, changing legislation, and concerns about climate change.

“Given the current policy focus on sustainability, that is something absolutely top of mind for building and construction industry stakeholders across the board and will be for the foreseeable future.

“Sessions about zero-carbon building, passive housing and building waste minimisation were extremely well-attended.

“Consumer demand for these kinds of sustainable solutions is growing so it has been hugely encouraging to see NZCB member builders take a keen interest in them.

“In coming years they will be crucial for meeting client expectations by delivering high-quality builds using innovative green building techniques,” Grant says.

Given the large proportion of SMEs in NZCB’s membership base, there was a particular focus on the sustainability of individual

NZCB Apprentice Challenge top three: third placed Ryan Whitburn [left], winner Marc Palmer and second placed Lucile Richardson [right].

businesses and keeping existing trade professionals in the sector.

wellbeing of members of our industry is well looked after.”

“This is an extremely busy time for the sector, and there are multiple pressures on builders and their clients alike.

Key insights were delivered from new research by NZCB, Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ) and Registered Master Builders (RMB) that analyses the tension points for builderclient relationships and the mental health impacts of these.

“This is compounded by shortages of skilled tradespeople and supplies, so it is crucial for us to analyse and deeply understand these stresses to ensure the health and

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Issue #130 - B&C | 21

News

Easy, scalable entry point for smart home technology PDL is offering electricians, builders and other tradespeople the opportunity to differentiate their business and provide cutting-edge smart home technology to their customers with the launch of the globally awardwinning PDL Wiser™.

Its development is a response to the increased demand for smart home products since the launch of Bluetooth technology, with Kiwis showing more and more interest in home automation and tradespeople upskilling to meet the demand.

“The field trials and feedback on PDL Wiser from electricians and homeowners has been very positive.” Vanessa says.

“PDL by Schneider Electric works closely with electrical and building businesses and is offering PDL Wiser not just as a solution but with a strong backbone of support for the installer.

The new smart home technology gives electricians and builders the ability to simply and easily make every home a smart home – from one room to an entire home.

It offers an entry point to a more advanced application of technology in the home, as homeowners can start with standard PDL switches and Bluetooth smart home technology and scale up to Zigbee and remote access at the speed they prefer, with the support and guidance of trained, registered Wiser Smart Home installers.

Schneider Electric NZ product manager, Vanessa Willats, says “PDL Wiser™ is innovative technology that puts electricians and builders at the forefront of the latest smart home solutions and gives them a commercial advantage in their sectors.

“People want more from their homes, to help them to maximise the space and their expectations around control and comfort.

“The feedback we had was that homeowners are also looking for a smart home solution that doesn’t lock them in, and that can be tailored to their lifestyle.”

PDL is at the cutting-edge of smart home technology. The Iconic 2AX Connected Module, a new product within the Iconic range that works with PDL Wiser, is a winner of the prestigious Red Dot Award.

“Tradespeople need to go through a training programme to become a registered installer, and that triggers a wraparound support system, a business development tool and an attractive add-on to these businesses.

French Electrical, which was established in 1974 and works in residential, commercial and industrial, has Schneider Electric as a preferred supplier and has been using its products for home automation for two decades.

Chris French says, “The new offerings of Wiser, Bluetooth and wireless have definitely made the market a lot stronger.

This award showcases the ‘best in the world’ innovation being achieved by the Pacific Design Lab team. The Iconic 2AX Connected Switch module is unique with its modular design and small form factor.

“Wiser, I believe, will close the gap between a fully automated home and a retrofit home. The benefits I see of using Wiser is there are so many options within the suite. The opportunities are endless, and it’s still growing. I see massive benefits for our clients.”

“A Wiser smart home solution can be upgraded with modular components as customers’ needs change allowing their smart home system, to grow with them.

In Bluetooth mode it can be used as on/off or a time delay, but the device really comes into play when in Zigbee mode where it can be integrated to be used with other Wiser compatible devices to trigger automation, such as “all off” or for multi-way switching.

A PDL Wiser smart home has been designed as a good long-term investment that will evolve with the residents’ needs, creating a home that is highly functional and efficient and – if resale value is a factor – adds value to the property.

“The home has become a more important space than ever before for Kiwis. Homes are now multifunctional spaces – a home, an office and a sanctuary.

As an established global brand, PDL Wiser is offered in New Zealand on the Wiser Asia platform that has been built specifically for the Pacific market.

The benefits of PDL Wiser include:

“The product combines local know-how with Schneider Electric’s unrivalled global R&D, extensive smart home expertise, and support as a trusted partner to tradespeople.

“The technology is incredibly powerful, yet straightforward for a skilled electrician to install.

Easy integration with Iconic switches and sockets enables almost any home to easily become a smart home

• Modular components – build up from one room to an entire smart home • Connects via Bluetooth Low Energy or Zigbee 3.0 technology • Differentiate your business by offering global award-winning smart home products • PDL Wiser can help improve the security of a house by having lights come on and off (at varying times) while the homeowner is away and improve safety by ensuring electrical devices do not remain on for prolonged periods. Also, many Kiwis have a bach so home automation means people can use the motion/door/window sensors for additional peace of mind • Provides connectivity of switches or timers from a smartphone. People can dim their lights from their phone or schedule their towel rail to go on and off for a few hours a day • Easy to use. Homeowners are able to customized their smart home from the app, adding new Automations and Moments as they go • PDL Wiser allows users to install an app on their phone and control thei from anywhere you have internet access – when used with the Wiser Hub • Lighting – adjust lights, change the ambience, and control lights at home when residents are away, a good security benefit • Blind control – open and close blinds from a smartphone without getting out of bed; or synchronise blinds with daily habits or with sunrise and sunset • Heating control – schedule the house to warm up as people wake up and to save on energy while residents are away • Wiser is currently available across Europe, the United Kingdom, Asiaand is now available for Kiwis.

Electricians can find out more here: www.pdl.co.nz/wiser/electrician.

Builders can find out more here: www.pdl.co.nz/wiser/builder.

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News

Tools Down aims to halve tradie suicides A new mental health awareness platform has launched to raise awareness of mental health and the suicide rate among Kiwi tradies.

need for valuable resources to coach them through times of stress. This is exactly what Tools Down is for and we’re glad people are using it.”

Tools Down was launched with an online social media and radio campaign, achieving more than 180,000 impressions online. It is an introductory source for those who reach out via the platform, offering partnerships with specialist organisations across the country best placed to support those who seek help.

Tools Down was started by Mike Taylor and Ryan Edwards, thanks to an $50,000 AIA Vitality Business and Community Grant, to shed a light on the little talked about topic in the industry.

Ryan and Mike founded Tools Down with support from AIA Vitality’s $50,000 Business and Community Grant programme.

Ryan Edwards, managing director at The Adviser Platform and Tools Down co-founder, has seen many tradies struggling with mental ill health, and has worked with many to help alleviate financial and work pressures.

“The last decade has seen more than 300 tradies take their own life. Not only is this a devastating number, but it has a knockon effect to roughly 1.5m Kiwis who are affected by these tragic deaths or serious harm incidents,” Ryan says.

“That’s why we’ve made it our mission to halve the number of suicides and serious injuries and harm experienced by tradies each year, by 2025.”

Mike Taylor, managing partner at BBT Digital and Tools Down co-founder, recognises this is a hefty goal but is determined to achieve it.

“I’m a big believer in setting big, aggressive goals. By aiming to make a considerable impact, even if you fall slightly short, we’re still closer than if we set a smaller target.

“Without the support of AIA Vitality, we wouldn’t have been able to get this platform off the ground. Like us, AIA Vitality is committed to helping Kiwis live healthier, longer, better, lives with wellbeing at the heart of what they do, so it was a wonderful partnership for us full of shared values,” says Ryan.

“Our hope is that by educating people about the help and support available out there, it can encourage people to take control of their wellbeing. With good education comes good prevention, this is where we’re hoping to encourage the conversation,” notes Mike.

Ryan says that there are specific struggles a tradie faces which can take an overwhelming toll on mental health.

“We know this situation is not unique to the trade sector. People all across the country struggle with mental ill health every day.

However, many tradies don’t go into the

profession to run their own businesses and can find it difficult to handle and talk about the challenges they face.

“You may wake up one morning and find your Ute broken into and all your tools stolen or suffer a work injury that takes you off the tools. How do you deal with those lost assets and time on top of everything else? It can be the tipping point for some tradies.

“Through Tools Down, people have approached us to discuss their hardships and

“We are eager to extend our support to the community to provide the best available advice to those who’d like it and are actively seeking similar partners to join us on this journey.

“If you are struggling, reaching out is totally okay, and there are good Kiwi organisations ready and willing to offer help.”

For advice, support, or to offer your services to the tradie community, you can touch base with the Tools Down team at: www.toolsdown.co.nz.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 23

Open Polytechnic

More Kiwis are choosing a career in construction.

The Government’s Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF), increased investment in residential and commercial construction, a housing and skills shortage and COVID-19 are key factors contributing to the increase in kiwis choosing a career in construction.

Norman Mailer, Programme Delivery Manager at Open Polytechnic, New Zealand’s specialist provider of online and distance learning, says they are currently experiencing record enrolments in their construction programmes.

“Open Polytechnic had a regular five to ten percent increase in the number of enrolments in construction programmes every year; however, this year our building construction management enrolments are up by 150 percent on the same period in 2020 in the entry level courses.”

Learners are aware of the potential opportunities within the construction industry and see it as a viable long-term career option “Subsequent investment in the construction sector and new government initiatives like TTAF and campaigns promoting vocational education and training, are boosting kiwis’ interest in the sector,” says Norman.

“Learners are aware of the potential opportunities within the construction industry and see it as a viable long-term career option.

The New Zealand Diploma in Construction The New Zealand Diploma in Construction, with strands in Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, will give learners the skills and knowledge needed to work as a construction manager, consultant or contract quantity surveyor.

The qualification was originally developed by the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO). It has been kept updated over several years with inclusions to new legislation or regulatory and compliance measures.

“It is recognised by employers, industry, academic and professional bodies – so when learners graduate from our Diploma they will be highly competent and industry ready, “ says Norman.

“We offer the opportunity for learners to study the Quantity Surveying strand if they are interested in budgeting and cost planning for construction projects. Also, if they are looking at extending their career within the construction industry and would like to progress ‘beyond the tools’ and move into a management role, then we offer the Construction Management strand.

This gives our graduates a unique edge in the market.”

Norman, says the Open Polytechnic learners typically take up to 3-4 years to complete the qualification and have gone on to work in a variety of roles in the Construction Industry. “This is dependent on their availability to study however and the qualifications can be completed in or around two years full-time.

“Our graduates have gone on to make an impact in an industry which has a consistent flow of work. At the moment there’s a compelling case for people to join the building and construction industry knowing that it’s a career for life.”

Returning to study For many students, the prospect of returning to study after a break from learning, in some cases for many years, is a challenging and tense prospect and despite the motivation to move into the Construction Industry, this can present a barrier to progression, says Norman. “It is not uncommon for a number of our learners to mention the last time they studied was at school.”

Often, the last experience of learning in an educational setting for students on the Construction Programmes, brings many challenging reminders of a student’s past learning experiences. “It is important to remember learning is a skill that can be ‘learned’, and for some who struggled with previous learning experiences, taking that first step to learn a new topic is the biggest hurdle. “We have many support networks to assist learners through different stages,”

“The TTAF has allowed people to pursue their study goals through fees free training where before, further study would not have been possible,” says Norman.

Dr Iman Khajehzadeh, Construction Programme Leader at Open Polytechnic, says he was interested to see more diverse learners than ever enrolling in construction.

“The ongoing effects of COVID-19 on employment situations may or may not be the reason, but among our new construction learners, we have teachers, building consent officers, recent high school graduates, mothers of young children and airline and supermarket staff looking for a change in career,” says Iman.

“Learners predominantly select the Open Polytechnic to study construction for the flexibility it provides and the reach we have nationally. Learners can access our course content almost anywhere, study at a pace that suits their life and work commitments and can do so without relocating or committing to classes at predetermined times,” says Iman.

24 | B&C - Issue #130

says Norman. “With academic staff trained in working with adult learners and the educational content written in an accessible format.

“The flexibility to study at a pace that suits learners’ circumstance is an important factor for many students already juggling part or full-time work, family or extended whānau commitments, community, sport or social commitments. We can help identify what a learner’s need is and can make suggestions on balancing study load with other life commitments.”

The flexibility to study at a pace that suits learners’ circumstance is an important factor for many students already juggling part or full-time work, family or extended whanau commitments, community, sport or social commitments.

For those thinking about a career in construction, Norman says, “Make sure you understand your motivation to enter the industry. There is work and subsequent reward for those willing to make a difference for themselves and their families. Speak to people in the industry and get an inside appreciation of what is involved; you won’t be disappointed.”

Norman Mailer, Programme Delivery Manager at Open Polytechnic.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Open Polytechnic enrols more than 30,000 distance learners each year in certificate, diploma and degree programmes. Most are adult learners combining work and study. For more information about Open Polytechnic’s construction programme visit our website or call us on 0508 650 200.

Open Polytechnic

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 25

Isthmus Group | Te Ngau o Horotiu Downtown Ferry Landing

A hint of Auckland’s tomorrow Downtown Ferry Landing’s biggest upgrade in over a century complete In the biggest upgrade to Auckland’s ferry infrastructure in over 100 years, Te Ngau o Horotiu Downtown Ferry Landing has finally been completed.

stretching along the western edge of Queens Wharf.

Combined with Te Wānanga, the Downtown Public Space, these projects are key components of the Downtown Infrastructure Development Programme – an ambitious programme to regenerate infrastructure and public amenity where Auckland’s CBD meets the Waitamatā.

For the Ferry Landing project Isthmus Group was commissioned to provide architectural and urban design services.

The Downtown Ferry Landing is located on Auckland’s busiest stretch of the city’s waterfront, set along Queens Wharf.

The area is part of the Britomart public transport hub and is projected to see a significant increase in users over the next 10 years, with the number of people travelling via the ferry terminal expected to increase up to 50 percent from six million people a year that currently travel through it.

The new facility provides a step change for ferry services in Auckland, with better infrastructure and improved customer experience and amenity.

The existing piers 3 & 4 along Quay Street have been replaced by six new berths

People can now arrive and depart with ease via three spacious 6m wide gangways, which are sheltered from the weather by a cantilevered glazed canopy structure.

The gangways connect to six near identical floating pontoons that move with the tide.

The group is well known for delivering integrated design services across Aotearoa, including award winning projects like Hobsonville Point, Kumutoto Pavilion and Freyberg Square.

Their 90-person team bring extensive experience and expertise in architecture, landscape architecture, graphic design, and urban design to every project, from studios in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

From the beginning, the project and wider programme had set an aspirational deadline for completion, that was further impacted by various COVID-19 lockdowns.

This required new levels of cooperation and integration across the project team and often meant managing multiple parallel work streams.

Continued on pg 28 >

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26 | B&C - Issue #130

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Isthmus Group | Te Ngau o Horotiu Downtown Ferry Landing

Auckland ferry terminal redevelopment Burgess Matting & Surfacing Ltd were approached with a challenge – design, manufacture and install a locally made, recycled flooring product that could withstand the toughest outdoor conditions the New Zealand environment can throw at it while still providing a durable, comfortable and nonslip surface that can handle high volume foot traffic and be easy to maintain.

Made in New Zealand using environmentally friendly, compression moulded recycled rubber was within the companies capabilities to deliver in full, on time, in spec. Burgess Matting & Surfacing Ltd are turning 70 years old this year and we were well placed to take on what would be the largest single contract we had ever taken on and to meet all the requirements for Auckland Transport.

As the tiles are manufactured in Wanganui the logistics of supply and install was demanding on the business and it’s people.

The contract stretched all resources by 30-40% while in addition to “life as usual” regarding the rest of our traditional markets – agriculture, education, commercial and domestic product supply which had to be managed as well.

Design specification

Challenges

Custom manufacture

We worked closely with the architects, main contractors and terminal designers to create a suitable surface that would meet stringent slip resistant compliance, extended life span durability and easy maintenance requirements while being able to retain it’s attractive looks in a salt / wet marine environment that is exposed to all weather conditions. The products were designed to meet these high standards while still being able to be manufactured in the large quantities to cover six pontoons and 3 access gangways, approximately 3,000 square meters area required, within the timeframe specified.

Installation was an incredible challenge for our team, each tile weighed 30kg and had to be shaped/cut to fit onsite in outdoor conditions while floating on a pontoon in the sea. Product and staff travelled to Auckland and the matting was installed in stages after being craned onto the pontoons.

All significant issues that needed careful planning and consideration to complete a successful install. Then along came Covid-19!

Another potential “spanner in the works” that had to be coped with.

The accumulated 3 generations of knowledge and 70 years of experience was put to the test in the design of the two custom products. The Herringbone Tile for the walkway which has an attractive patterned surface and the colour flecked Rebond 1524 Tile for the pontoons. These products were chosen for their durability and custom made to the size required for the specific areas.

Quantity To accommodate the substantial amount of raw product, approximately 40 tonne of recycled rubber, had to be processed to produce the Herringbone and Grey Fleck Tiles.

The end result is we are very proud to have been selected to provide a locally sourced product that has achieved the tremendous result. It is an aesthetically pleasing product and totally functional providing the properties that the designers were after and the client agreed met all their requirements.

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Contact us to discuss your project on 0800 80 85 70 Find out more at www.burgessmatting.co.nz Email us at sales@burgessmatting.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 27

Isthmus Group | Te Ngau o Horotiu Downtown Ferry Landing Resource consent was a key milestone which required extensive consultation with and management of a wide range of stakeholders.

Also key to achieving the deadline an effective Early Contractor Involvement process. The design and consenting team working closely with the Downtown Joint Venture, a construction consortium led by Downers to build the project.

Overcoming health & safety challenges One of the biggest concerns identified early in the project was the health and safety of the construction team.

Isthmus Group principal, Andrew Mirams says, “From the beginning, we all understood there was going to be a real issue around health and safety because of the nature of the site itself.

“As a project team we knew the construction team was going to be working intensively over water and this presented a massive risk that effected not only health and safety, but also cost, programme and quality.”

The site for Te Ngau o Horotiu stretches along the western side of Queen’s Wharf.

Squeezed between the wharf edge and The Cloud, the site’s hardstand area was only 10m wide.

“Once the construction team got into planning the there was no space for actual construction on that slither of wharf.

be lifted and moved and put in place.”

It quickly became obvious to all the project partners that using prefabrication and modular construction techniques would provide advantages in enabling on time delivery, quality control and cost certainty whilst minimising the construction team’s time working in high-risk areas.

Working collaboratively with project leadership, engineering and construction partners, Isthmus’s design team integrated this off-site manufacturing thinking into the design process and across the detail of the project.

“Through both the design and detail phases, we leveraged the unprecedented access to Early Contractor Involvement to understand construction methodology and build that knowledge into the design.

“We held regular discussions with the Downtown Joint Venture construction team to understand how we could modularise or prefabricate large parts of the project offsite, so the only things that have actually been constructed onsite have been the foundations and columns.”

The roofs, glazing systems, gangways and the berthing pontoons were all constructed away from the site, transported via road and water to the site and then lifted into place.

It was a mammoth task, especially as the scale of these prefabricated components was often unprecedented.

“The gangways themselves are big truss-like structures, which pivot up and down with

“That space was going to be all about providing infrastructure to enable things to

Continued on pg 30 >

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Isthmus Group | Te Ngau o Horotiu Downtown Ferry Landing

Tonkin + Taylor The dream was aspirational - to create a generous and welcoming destination along the water’s edge that was recognisably Tāmaki Makaurau. A place where land, sea, Maori culture, marine and terrestrial ecology, maritime history and people would come together.

Tonkin + Taylor (T+T) is proud to have helped lead the realisation of that dream, helping to deliver the six projects that combine to form Auckland’s transformational Downtown Infrastructure Development Programme.

Our work on downtown demonstrates T+T’s capacity and ability to work across a wide range of stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and constructors, to achieve an accelerated start, while raising the bar in partnering with mana whenua. It also speaks to T+T’s high levels of innovation in addressing the challenges imposed by sea level rise and the more frequent, extreme weather events caused by climate change.

T+T provided the core team of project delivery specialists to direct and control the design and planning work across the entire

programme. Working at pace, we went from project initiation to securing multiple resource consents in just 14 months.

Balancing the interests of multiple stakeholders including AT Metro, Ferry Operators, Ports of Auckland, the cruise industry, Panuku, Auckland Council, MBIE, developers Cooper and Co and Precinct Properties Ltd, landowners Ferry Building Ltd, and contractors, was essential to the project’s success.

From the very start, the T+T engineering, planning and ecology teams worked alongside AT to clearly define the scope of works and develop initial packaging of the different project elements. These included the seismic strengthening of Quay St, Te Wānanga (the new downtown public space), upgraded Downtown Ferry Facilities, the enhancement of Quay Street and the Lower Albert Street Bus Interchange, resulting in seamless connections between public transport facilities.

and long-term strategy. A significant scope optimisation and affordability management exercise driven by our project delivery team saw costs reduced by $30 million.

Notably, T+T were also part of the team that set a new benchmark for AT’s engagement with iwi. The approach was praised by mana whenua as next-level “making the relationship a true partnership”. The resulting working group was intimately involved in all aspects of Te Wānanga’s design, which so proudly proclaims their place in Tāmaki Makaurau’s past, present and future.

T+T Project Delivery specialist, Mark Foster, described the Downtown Infrastructure Project as “a highlight of my career”.

“It was a project with many moving parts.

I’m proud of T+T and the wider project team – including our partners and stakeholders who worked so hard to ensure an integrated, efficient delivery.

“To see people out there every day, enjoying the transformation whether they’re walking, cycling, or in wheelchairs, is pretty special.”

Our people developed and implemented a highly innovative, first of its kind design approach to the seismic strengthening of the historic Quay Street seawall.

T+T also led marine side masterplanning for the next 20 years of the Downtown Ferry Basin development. This required accommodation of ferry and cruise industry requirements and consideration of public transport growth

Enjoy, Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau!

Tonkin + Taylor is thrilled to have played a part in Te Wānanga, as part of delivering the city’s transformational Downtown Infrastructure Development Programme.

A special thanks too, to our client, partners and stakeholders in the project whose vision brought our proud culture and heritage to the fore.

It’s been a challenge, a joy, a labour of love.

Now we can all enjoy this world-class metropolitan environment – a resilient, vibrant, welcoming and accessible space where people, land, sea, ecology, history and culture connect.

Get out and explore. See you there!

www.tonkintaylor.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 29

Isthmus Group | Te Ngau o Horotiu Downtown Ferry Landing the tide and are housed inside the glazed shelters,” Andrew says.

Created by Manson Engineering, the gangways are the biggest in New Zealand and were 35 metres long by six metres wide, all in aluminium. They were constructed in West Auckland, then barged onto the site.

Similarly, the roofs were constructed by New Zealand Force in Hobsonville Point.

Each roof was constructed as one element before being split into three pieces at optimal points for transportation to site.

Installing these elements onsite was a feat of precision and coordination from the DJV’s construction team.

Often the lifts used multiple cranes, sometimes one on Queens Wharf and another located on a jack-up barge on the water in the ferry basin. The whole process was dependent on weather and an available window to get in and out of the ferry basin water space before ferry operations started for the day.

“Using offsite manufacturing processes made it much safer for the workers onsite.”

Andrew further explained “It also allowed us to have multiple work streams happening at the same time, but the team not be working over each other. It required a huge level of coordination and commitment by all the team members to ensure millimetre accuracy.”

There were also a number of elements that have been added into the design to ensure that the Health and Safety thinking was extended into the operational life of the building, enabling the safe cleaning and maintenance of the structures themselves.

Virtual technology & design The Downtown Ferry Landing project was one of the biggest projects Isthmus Group had ever used virtual reality as a design and sharing tool.

“The ability to leverage our models and share them was not only useful for assisting in the actual design, but also to share that design not just our client but also with the

contractors and the other consultants,” Andrew says.

These tools enabled the team to understand the design and test it in various ways, including running several simulations for ferry operations and manoeuvring.

Early on in the process, the wider team could instantly visualise the space in a way that drawings simply could not.

Andrew says “you could put the goggles on and go into the space you’re designing to show the structural team the different structural elements, as well as how they overlap with services and the like.”

It’s been a powerful tool for Isthmus on this job and one that the company will definitely be using on future projects.

“We feel we have only really just scratched the surface of the use of this technology. In particular we see a real future in the use of virtual reality with builder partners to assist in planning the construction process.”

“The new facility has the capacity to expand in the long term, so as the patronage grows, Auckland Transport can bring on bigger vessels, which are up to three times larger in terms of passenger load than some of the typical services that work off the passage we’ve built.”

The project team has also future-proofed the facility for the arrival the electric ferries, which are coming over the horizon pretty quickly.”

Te Ngau o Horotiu Downtown Ferry Landing knits the wider vision of Auckland together to combine a people friendly environment with a sustainable future, engaging not only its stakeholders but with people for years to come.

The Downtown Ferry Terminal represents a complete revitalisation of Auckland city centre’s land and water interface – fitting into the wider vision of the city to transform the waterfront into a peoplefriendly environment.

Future-proofing One of the main aims of the project is to future proof ferry services for years to come – not only to make it more pedestrian friendly, but to also address sustainability and sea level rise.

The design uses passive design techniques to enable natural processes to ensure good ventilation, weather protection and accommodate tidal movement.

Isthmus Group

43 Sale Street Freemans Bay PO Box 90 366 Victoria Street West Auckland (09) 309 9442 www.isthmus.co.nz

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Our vision is to make safety an instinctive culture. An instinctive culture that takes care of our partners, our people, our company, and our environment.

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Evaluating what type of work at height is to be done, maintenance requirements, the level of risk, frequency of use, construction materials, CAPEX vs OPEX expectations, plus the likely level of user competency are important factors in determining a suitable design and product selection that will meet the requirements of health & safety at work legislation.

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Dowman Contracting

Dowman Contracting Operating since 2008, Dowman Contracting is your go-to earth moving specialist in Whanganui.

Specialising in both rural and residential roading and earthworks, the team at Dowmans has also moved into commercial earthworks over the past two or so years.

One thing the company is passionate about is using the best possible machinery to get the job done for it's customers. This year, Dowman Contracting bought the Bobcat T650.

Dowman Contracting director, Scott Dowman says, “For the past few years this has been on the to do list, and finally we have bit the bullet and done it! A new tracked bobcat T650 with a sharpgrade 2D laser leveling box blade. This will revolutionise the way we do sub grade preparation. House floors and commercial slabs prepped in record time without the labour on a laser staff.”

Since purchasing the new T650 with the 2.2 metre sharp grade laser leveler, Dowman Contracting has been able to increase production exponentially. In the month of May, the team was flat out with work, with more than 10 house and garage sites over that month.

“This is the only machine this capable and advanced for this specialized work in the Whanganui region!

The opportunities are endless,” Scott says.

With the new dual grade laser, Dowman Contracting can prep and shape:

• Concrete slabs • Horse arenas • Sports fields • Driveways and carparks • Dual falls up to 10 percent.

In a recently completed job with the machine, Dowman Contracting finished 1500m2 of floor prep for a client's new storage sheds about to go up in Rakau Road. 4000m2 ground prep, 1500m2 floor slab prep, 1200m3 of sand imported, spread, compacted and trimmed to +- 5mm in five days.

“Without our new Bobcat T650 fitted with our Sharpgrade box blade this would take 3 times as long. Efficient and accurate!”

Dowman Contracting also has other various machinery, including 1.8 tonne, 3.5 tonne, and 15 tonne diggers, as well as two Bobcats.

That means the company is fully equipped to help service all of your earthwork needs – from residential to commercial site prep,

from section clearing to land clearing, the team at Dowman Contracting has you covered. On top of that, Dowman Contracting can also perform tasks such as trenching and post hole augering, as well as farm shed site prep and pole holes.

From residential to commercial site prep, from section clearing to land clearing, the team at Dowman Contracting has you covered.

Beyond the contracting side of the business, included is also Dowman Landscape Supplies, offering products such as topsoil, shellrock, gravel and stone.

Whether it’s for earthworks or for landscaping supplies, get in contact with Dowman Contracting today.

Scott Dowman Dowman Contracting 176 Ridgeway Street Wanganui

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 31

CMP Construction | Neo Apartments Project

Modern living meets pragmatic construction CMP Construction delivers luxury $38 million Neo Apartments project six months early Neo Apartments, situated a short walk away from the Auckland CBD and Newmarket, is the best of modern living in one neat package.

Sitting on an elevated north-facing site on Grafton Ridge, Neo Apartments contains 99 high-quality freehold apartments with spectacular views of the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf.

The perfect urban location, with easy access to public transport and motorways, had its architecture and interiors designed by apartment specialists Leuschke Group.

Even though it truly is central living, it doesn’t come with the claustrophobic qualities often associated with being in the city – with high ceilings inside the living areas of 2.65 metres and 2.55 metres in the kitchen, it provides a more spacious feel.

Pair that with timber flooring through open plan living and engineered stone benches in kitchens, these apartments have already had 80 percent of its residents move in.

The developer of the luxury apartments, Risland Developments, is an international

real estate development company headquartered in Hong Kong – as this was their first development in New Zealand, the stakes were high.

CMP Construction was more than up to the challenge, with a vast range of experience not only on multi-level apartment complexes, but with projects from retirement villages to office towers.

The first stage of the largest apartment complex in New Zealand, Rose Gardens, which will have 800 apartments when completed, was also constructed by CMP Construction.

The Neo Apartments project was compelling, uncharted territory for the company – this was CMP’s first multi-story high-rise ‘design and build’ apartment project.

CMP Construction commercial manager, Andrew Moore says, “Having the consultants working for us directly was a novelty that came with a number of nuances we hadn’t recently encountered, especially when it came to billing.

“Having such a tight budget and being CMP’s first multi-story high-rise design and build project, this was seen as CMP’s highest risk project at the time.

Continued on pg 36 >

PDC GROUP LTD FORMALLY KNOWN AS P and D Contracting Services Painting • Gib Fixing • Gib Stopping P and D Contracting Services Ltd is proud to be involved in another Quality Project with Ron Macrae and the CMP team as we have been now for approx 20 years including projects as far as field as Fiji (Hilton), Queenstown (NZ), Taupo (NZ Hilton) and numerous Quality Retirement Villages, Apartment Buildings, Warehouse/Factory and Office Fitouts.

P: 0274 735 642 | E: bruce@pdcgroup.co.nz 32 | B&C - Issue #130

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

PDC Group Ltd P and D Contracting Services Ltd is now known as PDC Group Ltd. PDC Group, the new name moving forward into the 21st century, has been in business for approximately 25 years.

The company now decided it was time to upgrade the name to cover the services it provides to the building industry.

Its main services over the last 25 years include gib stopping, painting – both internal and external – and intumescent painting to any structure.

PDC Group can now also carry out steel ceiling grid installation and gib fixing.

As PDC Group’s gib stopping and paint services have been carried out for about 25 years, being one of the first in Auckland, the company feels by linking all these services together, it mitigates a lot of the issues quite often found between these trades.

Even though the company has changed its operating name, that is all that changes.

PDC Group still have the same core staff that long term clients such as CMP Construction have come to know and trust over long term relationships.

P and D Contracting Services Ltd is now known as PDC Group Ltd. PDC Group, the new name moving forward into the 21st century, has been in business for approximately 25 years.

CMP Construction | Neo Apartments Project

Colonial Builders Servicing Auckland and the Bay of Plenty, Colonial Builders is your go-to construction company, specialising in concrete construction.

Colonial Builders does large-scale construction best, creating warehouses, offices and showrooms. On top of that, the company does other expansive projects such as apartment buildings and infrastructure projects.

The team at Colonial Builders are masters at creating in-situ walls, beams and stairs.

In-situ concrete is the traditional form of concrete construction, which was the main method used until the early 1900s.

Besides the fact that in-situ concrete is a universally available material, it is endlessly customisable in a way that pre-cast and modular systems are not – it’s not beholden to modular restrictions of other systems, so its incredibly flexible in both size and shape. Pair this with its ability to have a variety of surface textures and colours, it’s easy to see why those who love more traditional construction methods keep turning back to in situ concrete.

If you would like a quicker turn around time with less customisation, Colonial Builders also works well with precast install and onsite manufacture. The team also does slab and flat work to give you the extra strength of concrete.

Whatever your concrete needs, Colonial Builders are here to get the job done.

With the advent of precast systems in New Zealand, there are less and less builders who specialise in that here, even though it is widely used in many other countries.

Colonial Builders services Specialising in concrete construction, Colonial Builders are the experts in the following services: • Site set up • In-situ walls, beams and stairs • Precast install and onsite manufacture • Slab and flat work • Warehouses/offices/show rooms • Infrastructure • Apartments.

In-situ concrete is well regarded for its structural qualities, giving designers a chance to construct gorgeous monolithic building elements – from beams to stairs and beyond – with intricate details.

colonialbuildersltd@yahoo.co.nz (021) 027 20963

It’s also a robust material that doesn’t require a lot of maintenance or upkeep.

COLONIAL BUILDERS LTD SPECIALIZING IN CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION AUCKLAND • BAY OF PLENTY • • • • • • •

Site set up Insitue walls; beams and stairs Precast install and onsite manufacture Slab and flat work Warehouses / Offices/ Show rooms Infrastructure Apartments

colonialbuildersltd@yahoo.co.nz | 021 0272 0963 www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 33

CMP Construction | Neo Apartments Project subcontractors, uniting them in a common goal and direction.

Andrew says James was chosen for this project specifically due to his strengths in understanding design, construction planning and risk mitigation, especially on complex projects.

In the construction industry for over 15 years, where he originally started his career as a structural design engineer before switching to construction, James has a fully comprehensive understanding of both design and construction.

“As the project was not initially set up as a design and build and the programme time had already started, James also took up the role as the design manager.

Other parties involved on Neo Apartments project Client – Sunny Grafton Apartments Project manager – Rene Lin, Kingston Project Management Quantity Surveyor – Esther Wong, RLB Architect – Rob Knight, Leuschke Architects Engineer – Brendan Greer, DHC Engineers Façade engineer – Shawn McIsaac, Oculus Architectural Engineering Specialist trade – EI Build: Seismic design and steel stud and ceilings, AFS: Logic Walls Services – HSC: Hydraulics, Thurstons: Mechanical, ECS: Electrical

It was therefore vital that the subcontractors and consultants were very carefully managed as there was no room for cost escalation or design creep.

“The subcontractors were contractually locked into detailed scopes of work as there were not variations in the contract CMP couldn’t afford any scope gaps or variations from subbies.”

James Sutherland, the Neo Apartments project manager, was the perfect man for the job. James focused on getting back to the basics with the project.

His target areas included things such as the build sequence, logistics, design efficiency, risks and completion of design in order to plan and commence the build.

This enabled the team to easily mitigate site issues, reduce un-needed costs and create a productive team culture to bridge the gap between consultants and

“This meant that urgent meetings needed to be had with the consultants so that the basement design could be updated to include the additional basement level as well as refining the design for potential buildability issues and internal cost savings.

“Our goal now wasn’t to try and justify and on-claim additional costs but to eliminate extra costs from arising, and where possible to minimise costs – this was a totally new mind-set for us.

“Although initially daunting, this was something that James and his whole team took in their stride and ended up thoroughly enjoying.”

Challenges and triumphs In order to ensure the health and safety of the team and the other workers onsite, extra safety precautions during excavation and strict procedures were put in place when piling through asbestos.

In addition to asbestos hazards, additional hazards existed due to the fact that manufacturing and the use of toxic paints and oils over the years. The site was deemed contaminated.

Some of the key Quality Assurance procedures onsite include: • High risk elements such as the façade and fire engineering were fully documented and QA’d by CMP personnel • Subcontractors produced their QA on a weekly basis • Regular site meetings were held to ensure the consultants and subcontractor both understood the complexity.

Since the asbestos were in the ground at low levels, James formulated detailed and complex contamination management plans around asbestos removal concurrently with piling, excavation and dewatering.

“James created a positive safety culture that was based on everyone having a say on what safe practices looked like and encouraged people to discuss unsafe practices so they could be remedied.

"Neo Apartments was chosen as one of the CMP sites to be audited when they went for their ISO accreditation which included health and safety, environmental and quality,” Andrew says.

“After the audit had been completed the comment from the auditor was that the Neo site had scored the highest score he had ever given in 20 years on an initial ISO audit and was very impressed with the systems and culture the team had created.”

Continued on pg 38>

Fairview North Shore

Fairview North Shore are specialists in quality aluminium joinery.

Passionate about delivering the best quality products and exceptional service, the team have a wealth of knowledge across all aspects of the market and pride themselves on offering their customers expert advice throughout the entire process.

During their 10 years of operation, the Fairview North Shore team have acquired an exceptional repertoire within their local markets having worked on a variety of high-profile projects ranging from high rise buildings, residential homes, and replacement aluminium joinery.

Delivering a comprehensive range of contemporary residential, architectural and commercial aluminium joinery systems, Fairview North Shore understand that every project is unique and requires a personal touch.

34 | B&C - Issue #130

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Fairview North Shore understand that every project is unique and requires a personal touch.

With a range of joinery suites, configurations, colour finishes, and glass options to choose from, Fairview North Shore ensure customers receive joinery suited to their personal requirements, style, and budget.

As one of Fairview’s leading joinery suppliers in New Zealand’s Northern region, this team provide some of the best insulated, most energy efficient window and door solutions in the market.

To enquire about your project today and a no-obligation free quote, call 09 444 4286 or email at quotes@fvaluminium.co.nz.

CMP Construction | Neo Apartments Project

Foster Signs Ltd Foster Signs is an Auckland based company catering for the wide and varying needs associated with corporate branded signage design, manufacture, supply and installation from the smallest requirement to major commercial contracts.

Some of the company’s big name customers include Carters, Auckland Transport, the Ministry of Health and beyond.

The bulk of what Foster Signs does falls into four categories: design, print, manufacture and install. Signage services range from outdoor signs to indoor signs – whatever your situation, Foster Signs is your go-to for all of what you need with signs.

Love, passion & over 50 years’ experience Built on 50 years’ experience Foster Signs can offer an array of signage solutions. The team designs and installs custom commercial signs on business storefronts, facades, receptions, corporate vehicles, and more.

Foster Signs is your go-to for all of what you need with signs.

Outdoor signs

Indoor signs

Outdoor signage launches your business into the public eye – not only does it tell people where you are, it tells them what you do. If you want to grow your customer base, and increase your revenue at the same time, professional and eye-catching outdoor signs will do just that.

Don’t let your indoor signs negatively impact your customer’s experience.

Brighten up your office space with some eye-catching wall graphics, 3D reception signs or router cut letters right down to the simplest of wayfinding signs that give your customer the confidence in your products and capabilities, to do so with clear, consistent and professionally branded signs.

Generally seen from a distance, what you do is just as important as your company logo. Working with you Foster Signs will ensure your message will have the maximum impact and attract the right customers for you.

Foster Signs has the facilities and know how to safeguard all signage requirements built to last, with experienced installers you can count on to have the job done right.

In today’s visual world first impressions can make a difference on whether they use you and your services or keep on driving.

Foster’s outdoor sign options include:

Creativity and innovation Foster Signs works with you to produce creative professional works for your organisation through the production of eye-catching signs and graphics by creating a professional image for your company. The company’s experts help you stand out and promote your business as the number one choice for you customers.

• Banners • Billboards • Plynth & pylon signs • Building signage • Ground floor graphics • Footpath signage & flags • Window graphics.

Foster’s indoor sign options include: • Wall graphics • Glass graphics • Reception signs.

Quality and satisfaction Committed to high quality manufacturing and installation on your property, premises or vehicles, Foster Signs provides a large range of services for both internal and external signage. Quality materials, combined with a consistent high standard of workmanship, ensures you the best possible result every time. From nationwide brands right through to the simplest of signs, Foster Signs can do it for you.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 35

CMP Construction | Neo Apartments Project Neo Apartments: fast facts • Project location – 5-7 Madeira Lane • Original contract value – $35 million • Final contract value – $35 million • Contract completion date – 22 July 2021 • Actual project completion date – 10 February 2021 (6 months early).

Value management of the entire building was a constant daily task, often requiring reconsenting, which helped CMP Construction secure another project with Risland Developers worth $60 million.

CMP had the consenting, in-ground, asbestos and design related risks at hand already sorted, Andrew says, so with time already ticking James quickly came up with a revised plan of attack on how to re-jig the entire building to suit the new design and build contract, including redesigning and reconsenting of the structure.

“One of the first, and certainly highest risk, items to be addressed was the car stacker system that had originally been designed into the building.

“After carrying out a risk matrix and cost review the option of adding an additional basement level using the stacker pits was carried out, on top of the design changes that had to be carried out along with peer reviews in an extraordinary quick time frame as construction onsite had already commenced.

“This required frequent design sessions and reviews with the required consultants to formulate and deliver updated drawings and report and then use the relationships within

NEO Apartment – beyond the Matrix When Surveygroup was chosen by CMP to decode the NEO Apartment, of course we looked to the Matrix as inspiration to translate the outer world vision of designers into a solid grid representation on the ground to ensure what-goes-where is set out right and set up right for a successful build.

With the foresight of an oracle, we kept pace with the construction programme and their agents, ah… site managers, anticipating the rigorous schedule that was set to complete the project on time and on budget.

Surveygroup, as always, is up for the challenge, as we fulfil our small but

36 | B&C - Issue #130

substantive place in the universe providing accurate and timely matrix data when and where required.

that sits at the top of the Grafton ridgeline, with views out towards the city and harbour beyond – a real pleasure.

Our large team has the capacity and drive to survey and monitor all projects from high rise to commercial, from state highways to rail, from marine to land developments, with state of the art surveying and digital engineering to give quick data flow when and where it’s needed.

The completed project is testament to another quality residential apartment, for which CMP Construction is widely renowned.

Unlike the Matrix with its dystopian view and morbid outlook, the NEO Apartments were designed to make living on an elevated site

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

We congratulate CMP and the NEO team on yet another successful project to add to their extensive construction portfolio, and we look forward to continuing to provide our large team of engineering surveyors to deliver exacting services and results.

Find out more at www.surveygroup.co.nz

the team to get it approved by the council in a quick period.”

Not only that, but CMP jumped at the opportunity to erect a second tower crane to accelerate the project and avoid any cost overruns.

Even with COVID-19, industry-wide shipping delays, late decisions on finishes, and late council consenting procurement becoming a risk, everything was procured early.

“This is even with excavation and piling being undertaken on the wettest August on record,” Andrew says.

Taking the proactive approach around weathertightness, CMP upgraded the roofing specification and applied a much higher quality and better warrantable product.

It’s no wonder the Neo Apartments and James Sutherland are 2021 finalists for the NZ Building Industry Awards in the Carters: Projects $35 million to $50 million category.

With views of the Sky Tower, Rangitoto Island and the Waitemata Harbour, as well as a quality, no-nonsense approach to construction methods and materials used, the mix of studio, one and two bedroom freehold apartments were standout contenders.

CMP Construction PO Box 90805 Victoria Street West Auckland (09) 368 5215 info@cmp.net.nz www.cmp.net.nz

Unlike the Matrix with its dystopian view and morbid outlook, the NEO Apartments were designed to make living on an elevated site that sits at the top of the Grafton ridgeline, with views out towards the city and harbour beyond – a real pleasure.”

CMP Construction | Neo Apartments Project

Louvretec Sliding Louvre Panels - integral to the design of Neo

We’re always proud to be a part of a CMP Construction project.

Louvretec systems are unique and distinguished by aesthetic, functional design, high quality and durability which is the perfect fit for the stunning Neo apartment building.

Louvretec’s Coastal 120 Top hung sliders with 90mm Airfoil fixed blades as the infill were specifically selected by CMP for each balcony. The louvre sliders create flow to the balconies with stunning views out over the heart of Auckland city. Being able to open up to the outdoors provides occupants with more room to relax, entertain or just take in the moment.

Congratulations CMP Construction on the stunning Neo Apartments Building.

The louvre shutters on Neo are the perfect accompaniment to the bold face of this modern new building. Each louvre panel is Electro Burnished Copper in colour with the slider track system a stylish Matt Black in colour. Edgy yet timeless.

Louvretec is available nationwide. Contact us today to discuss your next project.

Each louvre panel lets the occupant open and close the louvres, effectively controlling their privacy and weather protection needs.

Louvretec has been fortunate to work with CMP before on the equally impressive France Street building. Working on a CMP project is always a pleasure, their 30 plus years’ in the Auckland construction industry specialising in large commercial and industrial developments is evident the moment our team starts work with them.

Louvretec shutter systems are adaptable to any building style, providing comfort and design in one.

www.louvretec.co.nz

Best Doors Limited New Zealand’s leading manufacturer of Commercial, Residential & Fire Rated doors We produce premium quality Residential, Commercial and Fire rated doors to order for any building project and to meet any application. Our team is focused on delivering high quality products with a full range of architectural, premium and custom grade pre-hung doors. With our professional advice on materials choice and design, we strive to make your doors the best.

Crafted with 40+ years experience

Quality doors Our 40+ year heritage bears testimony to the product quality and service we’ve consistently provided to our many clients around New Zealand. With this heritage comes responsibility to uphold the very values that our business has been built upon. We stand by our products and the satisfaction of our clients is paramount.

Best service Our manufacturing flexibility, superior standards and custom finishing means we can build doors to the most critical aesthetic and engineering requirements.

The Best Doors website also has a comprehensive number of installation details to assist our customers with their requirements. Our commitment at Best Doors is to provide easy communication, prompt responses and efficient problem solving that will make your job run smoothly.

FIRE

SMOKE

ACOUSTIC

COMMERCIAL

RESIDENTIAL

Installed in over 75% of buildings in Auckland CBD

Top of the industry As the industry-leading manufacturer of doors in New Zealand over the last 40 years, our doors can be found in most Commercial Buildings, Fitouts and Residential developments across the country. If we took a map of Auckland and put a pin on every building where Best Doors are or have been installed, there’s good chance there wouldn’t be many suburbs without a pin.

Phone: 09 633 0046 | Email: sales@bestdoors.co.nz 80 Hastie Ave, Mangere Bridge, Auckland www.bestdoors.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 37

CMP Construction Neo Apartments project

Beth M Construction BMC specialises in passive fire stopping and precast concrete grouting.

PROVIDING EXCELLENT CONSTRUCTION SERVICES & SOLUTIONS

Neo Apartments

Satori Apartments

Our experienced and highly skilled site team ensures that our work is completed on time to the highest standard and to the best price.

There's no job too big or too small and we do ensure that our works are fully compliant while keeping up with the demanding construction schedules. We have a team of highly qualified off site professionals to ensure that the works we carried out are compliant and to maximise the benefits and satisfaction of the building owners and/or end users.

Planning is key, and we work together with our clients to achieve the best possible outcomes right from the start. We are proud and very grateful to have worked together with CMP's great teams on many of their projects including Neo Apartments. Give us a a call and we'll be very happy to help with your next project.

Alexandra Park Alexandra Park

Ph 027 276 5412 E info@bethmltd.com www.bethmltd.com

PBI Height Safety - your trusted height safety partners We absolutely love what we do.

We love partnering with Architects, Contractors and Building Owners & Managers to design, supply, install and certify bespoke height safety solutions that keep people protected in challenging environments.

GLOBAL INNOVATION & EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE FOR SPECIALIST HEIGHT SAFETY SOLUTIONS.

• Fall Arrest • Safe Access • Abseil & Façade Access • Maintenance Platforms & Units design@pbiheightsafety.com pbiheightsafety.com Auckland | New Plymouth | Wellington | Christchurch 38 | B&C - Issue #130

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Our vision is to make safety an instinctive culture. An instinctive culture that takes care of our partners, our people, our company, and our environment.

Our vision is to make safety an instinctive culture. An instinctive culture that takes care of our partners, our people, our company, and our environment. We are one team. A team with the integrity to perform and deliver. We passionately believe in protecting people, and it is

this passion which drives us to take charge to be innovative and progressive in our solutions.

Working throughout New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific, our national team of expert Project Consultants, Project Mangers, Installers and Height Safety Inspectors have completed over 6,000+ projects across the last 21+ years.

Taking a consultative approach, we engage with architects, specifiers, property managers, building owners and operations teams to analyse the requirements for work and maintenance on any structure.

Evaluating what type of work at height is to be done, maintenance requirements, the level of risk, frequency of use, construction materials, CAPEX vs OPEX expectations, plus the likely level of user competency are important factors in determining a suitable design and product selection that will meet the requirements of Health & Safety at Work legislation.

Whether you're working on a project or new to the height safety industry and have some questions, we would love to help.

Lets chat height safety!

CMP Construction Neo Apartments project

Panelab. Aluminium facade technicians Specialising in aluminium facade weather tight systems and rain screen systems, Panelab was started by father and son duo Wayne and Sean Sullivan in 2017.

With 300 plus jobs completed since then Panelab has been off to a good start. The Neo apartments being one of them.

Panelab looks forward to working with CMP Construction and Leuschke Architects again in the near future.

Panelab does everything in house, from client relationships and estimation. To draughting and project management.

To fabrication and installation.

"Dear Sean, I just wanted to say thank you for the work on the Madeira Neo project. The entry looks exceptionally good as well as the rest of the building, job well done" - Lead Architect, Leuschke Architects

Coordinating with CMP Construction and Leuschke Architects early on, the dark grey anodised solid aluminium sheet was ordered and shipped from France. The feature entrance panels and decorative screen was sourced locally in mill finish aluminium and powder coated electro burnish copper.

After shop drawings and details were finalised and signed off, Panelab was ready to get to work. Measuring and fabricating 750 plus panels and delivering safely for installation Panelab came in on time and on budget.

Developing a close working relationship to CMP Construction was key, and something Panelab prides itself on with all projects and all contractors.

Minor details and aesthetics are always critical and hands-on site involvement from Panelab’s owners in every single project ensure everything looks perfect.

Panelab brings over a quarter century of technical expertise and experience to your project. We have work lined up thru to 2023 from major projects to minor ones. We pride ourselves on workmanship and detailing.

Attitude and culture. We have an amazing team and we look forward to working for YOU in the future Get in touch today.

Panelab does everything in house, from client relationships and estimation. To draughting and project management.

To fabrication and installation.

COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • MAINTENANCE

DIRECTORS Proud to be working with CMP Construction

SEAN SULLIVAN s.sullivan@panelab.co.nz 021 178 1887 WAYNE SULLIVAN w.sullivan@panelab.co.nz 021 981 814

panelab.co.nz

155 Sunnybrae Road, Wairau Valley, Auckland

Neo Apartments www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 39

CMP Construction Neo Apartments project

Parks Flooring In 2001, Parks Flooring was created and has since specialised in the importing, supplying and providing of quality flooring solutions.

Starting out as a 50 square metre office with only 12 employees, Parks Flooring is now proud to say that it is one of the industry leaders for quality flooring in New Zealand.

Offering a wide range of products and a professional installation service, it’s not hard to see why Parks Flooring really does have something for everyone.

Choosing only quality European suppliers and products in accordance with its values, Parks Flooring shows its commitment to the environment and its main supplier, KronoSwiss Floor (the original Swiss flooring specialist), are a true testament to this.

Today, Parks Flooring is proud to offer high quality products that have been installed in hundreds of houses all over the Auckland region. Its Compressed Bamboo Floor in particular is a big seller due to its sustainable benefits, physical characteristics and aesthetic appeal – some of the major reasons for the ever increasing popularity of the material.

Eco-conscious elegance is what Parks Flooring strives to provide for its customers and creating something that suits their needs and lifestyle has become the company’s number one priority.

Whether you’re after oak, bamboo or even something a bit different, Parks Flooring is more than happy to help you choose what’s best for you and your home or place of business.

Offering multifunctional floor underlays, Parks will install for you a PE underlay with an integrated moisture barrier and circulation grooves to help support the circulation of air under your floors – ultimately preventing the formation of mould.

itself in exceptional customer service and offering only the finest in imported quality products. As far as Parks’ customers are concerned, the company ticks all the boxes: • • • • • •

Unrivalled experience Exceptional customer service Commercial and residential solutions After sales services 15-to-35-year Limited Residential Warranty Only the highest quality products from Germany and Switzerland.

At Parks Flooring the team prides itself on not only the quality of our products but also the meticulous nature of its flooring and installation services. The Swiss Krono factory performs a thorough formaldehyde test and confirm all our products meet the European standard of E1 HDF. After Parks’ imports arrive from either Switzerland or Germany, all of its products receive a thorough inspection on arrival for damages, termites and more.

Not only does Parks Flooring offer the finest in flooring solutions, but when dealing with them but we also have after sale services to help you in anyway we can. Whether its a simple inquiry or a complicated installation query, our after sale services are designed to help.

We offer options of flooring accessories to make sure what is best suit your home.

Why clients choose Parks Flooring At Parks Flooring, not only does the company have an invaluable wealth of experience in the field of flooring but the team also prides

Parks Flooring has specialised and choosing only quality European suppliers and products in accord with our values and shows its commitment to the environment.

We look forward to hearing from you as we are sure your experience with us will be a pleasant one!

Proud to support CMP Construction on their success!!

SOLE DISTRIBUTOR OF:

Phone : 09 - 276 7773 E-mail : sales@parksnz.co.nz Address: 138F Harris Road, East Tamaki, Auckland

SUPPLIERS:

40 | B&C - Issue #130

MEMBER OF:

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

The Flooring People

The Flooring People From our Whangaparaoa store we supply the wider Auckland area with carpet, vinyl, timber, laminate, garage carpet, designer rugs, boat carpet and more.

Owners and operators Alan and Melissa Maher from Red Beach have more than 35 years’ expertise in the flooring industry between them.

Alan is a certified carpet layer and salesperson, while Melissa has worked in commercial and residential flooring for the last 18 years.

There is not much they don’t know about the range of carpets, vinyls and wood flooring they sell and over the years have seen changes in the kind of materials people like to put on their floor.

Melissa and Alan hope that locals will tap into their considerable experience.

They have a big focus on establishing The Flooring People as ‘your local flooring store’.

“Being locals, we feel strongly about keeping jobs local.”

In Their Words

At The Flooring People we believe in buying local and supporting local. We endeavour to support local community groups every year. In 2021, we have chosen Red Beach Surf Club, Orewa Surf Club, Hibiscus Coast Boating Club, Manly Tennis Club, HDF Hockey Club and North Harbour Hockey. Without our community supporting local businesses this would not have been possible.

"We found Melissa’s advice on carpet choice to be knowledgeable and practical. Our property manager also commented on the professionalism of Al and team when installation took place. A competent and trustworthy local business, thanks for your great service"

"Al and Mel helped out immensely with my first ever carpet purchase and I couldn't be happier with the result! Such great service – especially with COVID-19 throwing a bit of a spanner in the works – and such great quality! My apartment is like a new home all over again! Thanks guys! "

-Renee, Stanmore Bay

-Tracy, Mt Wellington

"The Flooring People were absolutely amazing and I would totally recommend them 100% for their efficiency, friendly, and very helpful advice that they gave us. Choosing new carpet was a big decision for us and happily Mel and Al were there to help every step of the way from assisting with colour, texture, type of carpet to organising the uplifting and disposal of the old carpet, laying of the new and even popped in to make sure both of us were happy. We were more than happy, we were ecstatic!

Huge thank you Mel and Al for a very smooth and organised operation."

"The team at The Flooring People has been completing work for me for a number of years for various companies I have worked for. They are professional, friendly and prompt in all aspects of their work. I have been nothing but happy with the service and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a great flooring team. "

Contact us by calling (09) 428 3168, or email: sales@theflooringpeople.co.nz.

- Kim, Property manager

-Janine, Red Beach

669 Whangaparaoa Road | Phone 428 3168 | www.theflooringpeople.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 41

Steel Construction

A ticket to steel reuse HERA (Heavy Engineering Research Association) doesn’t see itself as the spokesgroup for steel manufacturers but rather a catalyst for innovation in the steel industry.

As evidenced by its efforts to develop a material passport for structural steel, HERA believes that structural steel is ideal for reuse and points to existing reuse projects as examples.

One case study includes the Mason Brothers Building in Auckland.

According to the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC), the warehouse conversion was the first building to earn the highest possible rating for environmental impact from the organisation.

HERA’s research often revolves around sustainability within the steel industry and finding pathways to becoming more sustainable - like steel reuse.

HERA’s main focus is research and development for the steel industry, especially research with the purpose of improving the sustainability and performance of steel.

NZGBC lists a number of the building’s sustainable features but one of the most striking is the fact that over 70 percent of the construction waste by weight was recycled so that it could be diverted from landfill.

Recently, they commissioned thinkstepanz to conduct HERA Report R5-89 Steel Recycling which revealed that 72 percent of steel scrap in New Zealand is recycled.

Some key recommendations from the report include upholding designs which make material separation and disassembly a priority so that recycling steel is an easy process and continuing to improve waste management and recycling infrastructure.

“To be able to reuse it, you’ll need to send the element to a laboratory, but this process is very expensive and intrusive.

It means that they need to cut a piece of sample from the element and test it to tell you the mechanical properties so.

Although the report provides insight on how much steel is recycled in New Zealand, it does not address the amount of steel that is reused and how steel is reused in New Zealand.

“To address this, we need a data platform to facilitate this data collection. If we have the required data for an element when can check it, and send that element to the right place for reuse.”

Both are important matters to explore to increase steel’s sustainability possibilities, which is why the materials passport for structural steel reuse research project has come about.

Another barrier for structural steel reuse is the material’s previous use and history. Providing another example, Kawa says, “Let’s say you have a building in Christchurch and it’s suffered from an earthquake and some of the structural element have signs of yielding.

HERA often partners with likeminded organisations in its pursuit of making a more sustainable future for the steel industry.

Recently, thinkstep-anz conducted the HERA Report R5-89 Steel Recycling revealing that 72 percent of steel scrap in New Zealand.

In the report, some key recommendations include upholding designs which make material separation and disassembly a priority so that recycling steel is an easy process and continuing to improve the waste management and recycling infrastructure.

Such outcomes give HERA hope for the association’s other endeavours like the development of a material passport for structural steel reuse. The more opportunities available to divert steel from landfill the less likely it will end up in a landfill.

Material passport for structural steel reuse Words like reduce, reuse and recycle are often grouped together and not considered individually. For that reason, it makes sense why some might confuse ‘reuse’ and ‘recycle’ with each other.

To clarify, HERA manager of structural systems Dr Kaveh “Kawa” Andisheh says that when recycling you remove the element to be recycled from its original setting, process it, then produce new materials.

42 | B&C - Issue #130

However, reuse simply means finding a different purpose for a given material without any further processing, whether that’s in another project or in the same project.

all have an intrinsic value – the more we understand this, the more likely those materials will be maintained and kept in use instead of being dumped prematurely, before the material’s end-of-life.

“So sometimes you may need a little bit of operation, but in some cases the element can be used directly without any further action.”

“But you know, the problem is there are many barriers that first need to be identified and then addressed before steel reuse will become a common practice in New Zealand,” Kawa says.

The reuse of steel shares the same benefit of recycling by diverting steel from landfills, but reuse differs from recycling in that reuse generally requires less processing and, therefore, less energy to implement.

For that reason, HERA found that it was important to research the barriers preventing the reuse of structural steel and to develop a material passport for structural steel reuse.

Kawa says, “It is one of the best sustainability strategies which can actually improve industry sustainability significantly. This research is going to develop a framework to facilitate steel reuse in Aotearoa New Zealand.”

Broadly speaking, a material passport lists the characteristics and details of the materials used in a particular project, especially those in construction.

Material passports are often associated with the application of a circular economy.

A circular economy is built on the understanding that the materials we use

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Barriers to structural steel reuse In HERA’s research so far, the barriers they’ve found range from the economic, political, sociological, and technological. Nevertheless, of all of the barriers, the most obvious one is probably cost – but not for the reasons you might think.

“This means that you cannot reuse the element in another structural project, because some degradation has happened.

In other words, because the residual capacity has been reduced, it needs further investigation.”

To overcome these types of barriers, the development of a material passport framework using previously collected and relevant data will be a game changer.

This is because, by developing a centralised platform, users will be able to access the material passport framework to determine whether the structural steel in question is reusable.

The materials passport project demonstrates HERA is future-proofing the metals industry by supporting members in furthering technical excellence and knowledge to improve sustainability.

In the context of structural steel reuse, cost is associated with determining whether a structural steel element is suitable for reuse.

Giving an example, Kawa says, “If you have a building in a location that you know the history of, then you know that there was no fire or no earthquake - but you have no data. You don’t know where that element came from.

“For example, you don’t know the mechanical properties of the element or the coating system information – therefore the capacity of this element. So that’s why you cannot reuse it.

CMP Construction PO Box 90805 Victoria Street West Auckland (09) 368 5215 info@cmp.net.nz www.cmp.net.nz

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Issue #130 - B&C | 43

Steel Construction

Compliance Made Easy Pre-qualification of ACRS steel makes compliance with AS/NZS Standards easy The significant growth in major infrastructure and construction projects which has occurred over the past 18 months – together with the associated growth in demand for construction materials – have also resulted in an increased chance of inferior products and materials finding their way onto construction sites in place of materials which conform with the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards. As such, matters relating to product conformity and certification of construction materials such as structural and reinforcing steels to Australian and New Zealand Standards is perhaps now more important than ever before.

Ensuring that the construction steels being used throughout all stages of construction or fabrication conform with all relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards and Building Codes - irrespective of their country of origin - is of paramount importance. After all, these Standards have been considered and developed to ensure that buildings and other structures are not only ‘fit for purpose’, but are also capable of meeting their design life requirements.

Unfortunately, in this day and age, it’s simply not enough to think that just because steel has been ordered to an Australian or New Zealand Standard that the delivered product will automatically conform with that Standard and be fit for purpose. Increasingly, this is not the case. In fact, there are some instances where even though the materials

have been specified and ordered to an Australian Standard, the materials that arrive are non-conforming. The product may meet the Standard; it may be supplied with documents for “an equivalent Standard” (but which Standard and is it really equivalent?) or it may not meet any Standard at all.

Importantly, whether this non-conformance is an intentional act of deception or 'counterfeiting' on behalf of the materials supplier, the builder or the contractor; or simply a matter of non-conformance through lack of correct process or an innocent misunderstanding of what constitutes conformance with Australian Standards, is effectively a moot point. Using nonconforming building materials carries a high risk of 'built-in' failure - and the results can be disastrous.

Independent, expert, third-party certification The only way to be truly sure that the materials being used conform fully with the appropriate Australian and New Zealand Standards and are fit for purpose, is through independent, expert third party certification with ongoing validation. ACRS provides a fully independent, expert assessment and certification to AS/ NZS Standards for both Australian and internationally sourced construction steels, including reinforcing steels, structural steels and prestressing steels.

ACRS steel is pre-qualified. The manufacturers and processors have already demonstrated compliance with the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards. By using ACRS certified construction steels, builders and contractors can be confident that they are getting the AS/ NZS compliant materials that they ordered, and engineers and building certifiers can be confident that the steel meets the requirements of the Building Codes and associated Standards and is fully traceable from the point of manufacture to the point of delivery.

All ACRS certification personnel are fullyqualified metallurgists and engineers with many years of direct experience in manufacture, processing, or design and construction of the steel materials it certifies. In addition to factory production control audits and independent testing, the ACRS scheme provides regular review and analysis of all products manufactured and supplied by the certified supplier. All testing is observed and verified by independent NATA test laboratories, and all processes, including the use of traceability tags, are audited.

The ACRS scheme operates as a verificationbased system modelled on international bestpractice standards. Where some certification systems might accept the suppliers’ own quality management systems certification and test reporting without further checking, ACRS doesn’t. ACRS assessors independently select the samples for testing during the audit to prevent any chance of “cherry picking” by the supplier.

It then manages the subsequent verification process though independent qualified laboratories selected by ACRS, not the supplier.

The process is further bolstered by ACRS conformity checking on the suppliers’ raw production data, which is undertaken every three months.

44 | B&C - Issue #130

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Steel Construction

ACRS makes it easy Perhaps most importantly, ACRS certification makes checking for compliance with the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards easy. It demonstrates INDEPENDENTLY and EXPERTLY that the supplier consistently meets the Standards stated on the certificate.

Beyond checking the supplier’s ACRS certificate, product markings and tags, there’s no need for you to make any further checks on ACRS certified materials.

That means: • No more checking materials properties against technical specifications; • No more checking batch numbers against the test certificates.

This makes matching material to conformity documentation simple and effective for the customer and for any verifier.

The ACRS website (www.steelcertification. com) also forms an integral part of the process of verification of supply claims and helps to protect against fraudulent certification claims. Visitors to the website are able to search for all current ACRS certified suppliers by location (globally) and/or product category.

How do I specify ACRS certified steels?

Suggested wording for steel reinforcing materials

The easiest way to manage and minimise the risk of non-conforming construction steels, is to specify ACRS certified steels.

“Steel reinforcing and steel prestressing materials for concrete shall comply with AS/ NZS 4671 or AS/NZS 4672, respectively.

Suggested wording for structural steels “Structural steels shall comply with AS 1074, AS 1442, AS 1579, AS/NZS 1163, AS/NZS 1594, AS/NZS 3678, AS/NZS 3679.1, or AS/ NZS 3679.2, as appropriate. Structural bolts shall comply with AS/NZS 1252.

Where applicable, materials shall be fabricated in accordance with the “Fabrication” requirements in Section 14 of AS 4100 or Appendix G of AS 5100.6, or AS/ NZS 2327, or NZS 3404, and the requirements of AS/NZS 5131.

Where applicable, materials shall be cut and bent in accordance with the requirements of the "Material and Structural Requirements for Reinforcing Steel" clauses in AS 3600 or AS 5100.5, or the “Reinforcement” clauses of NZS 3109.

Reinforcing couplers shall comply with RMS specification RMS SF2013/184115 Approval of Mechanical Reinforcing Bar Splices, or NZTA SP/M/022 Bridge Manual (technical approval sections), as specified.

Acceptable manufacturers of structural steels, structural bolts, and the fabricators of structural welded sections must hold a valid certificate of approval issued by the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd (ACRS), or to such other accredited product certification system as shall be demonstrated by the supplier to be directly equivalent in scope and technical rigour to ACRS and approved as such in writing by the specifier.

Acceptable manufacturers and processors of steel prestressing and steel reinforcing materials, including both manufacture and application of reinforcing couplers, must hold a valid certificate of approval issued by the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd (ACRS), or to such other accredited product certification system as shall be demonstrated by the supplier to be directly equivalent in scope and technical rigour to ACRS and approved as such in writing by the specifier.

Evidence of the supplier’s compliance with this clause must be obtained when contract bids are received.”

Evidence of the supplier’s compliance with this clause must be obtained when contract bids are received.”

Search results include a full listing of all certified suppliers for the selected criteria, detailing: company name; location, certification status and certificate number.

The certificate number also provides a ‘link’ to a pdf version of the current certificate. Most entries also contain additional ‘links’ which provide visual details of product markings, together with a scanned example of an actual product tag from the supplier.

The bottom line... with ACRS it’s easy for your suppliers, easy for your customers and easy for you!

For further information please email ACRS at: info@steelcertification.com or visit the website: www.steelcertification.com

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 45

ACRS_The ACRS Difference_260x350_INTL.pdf 1 25/05/2020 3:53:41 PM

Steel Construction

THE ACRS DIFFERENCE

Independent

ACRS is a steel certification scheme for steel users, and independent of product suppliers. So you know ACRS is working for you;

Expert

All ACRS auditors and technical staff are qualified and experienced in the manufacture of the materials ACRS certifies. So with ACRS you know certified materials have been audited and approved by people who understand them;

Comprehensive

ACRS certifies all steel products, from all manufacturing locations to all scheme standards. So with ACRS you know all listed products are covered, not just some;

M

Rigorous

M

Y

Y

ACRS audits every major site at least once every year. So with ACRS you know certificates are up to date;

MY

Verified

During every audit, ACRS takes samples at random from standard production and checks production data every three-months. So with ACRS you know supplied materials are assessed regularly;

Continuous

ACRS uses only selected laboratories to ensure accurate results independent of the supplier, and matches these with the supplier’s production data to monitor the supplier’s consistency.

www.steelcertification.com

Ph: +61 2 9965 7216 | E: info@steelcertification.com ABN: 40 096 692 545

ACRS - Independent, Expert Third Party Certification & Verification of Reinforcing, Prestressing and Structural Steels for Compliance with Australian and New Zealand Standards 46 | B&C - Issue #130

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Perry Metal Protection

The ultimate protectors How Perry Metal Protection invented the hot dip galvanizing game in New Zealand

Perry Metal Protection has been hot dip galvanizing in New Zealand since 1974.

During the 1970s Brian Perry was looking at other business opportunities to expand the Perry Group thus the formation of Perry Metal Protection (Hot Dip Galvanizing), who are now one of New Zealand’s largest and only ISO 9001 certified hot dip galvanizer.

Perry Metal Protection [PMP] has a broad footprint over New Zealand with galvanizing plants in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch with a depot in Tauranga.

PMP offers quality services and consider themselves to be the premium supplier in the galvanising market.

General manager Steve Halse says PMP pride themselves on turning out a high-quality product and a turnaround that meets the customer’s needs. He says often during the fabrication and construction projects, there’s not a lot of time left for galvanising, so they need to be able to work with customers to turn work around quickly.

“People come to us because we strive to deliver what our customers need,” he says.

Steve explains the galvanising process as “essentially we take uncoated/black steel, chemically clean it and then put it through

a zinc kettle. The zinc then adheres to the steel, a chemical reaction occurs creating galvanised steel.”

PMP has recently finished work for the Waikeria Prison extension and are currently working on sections of the Auckland Rail Project. They’re also involved with supplying galvanizing for the Wellington Metro Project.

Steve says they recently purchased Waikato Sandblasting Services and are looking to integrate abrasive blasting and painting into their current operations in Hamilton.

They also provide industrial grating solutions through Perry Grating situated in Tauranga for a variety of industrial uses across New Zealand.

A family company, its strength is in its people, Steve says. PMP has an incredibly loyal and long serving workforce.

The average term of employment is approximately 12 to 15 years, though Steve says there’s a few of the team who’ve been with them for more than 40 years.

of me alone and how I do things, we all work together as one,” Steve says. “I want everyone to feel as though they’re a part of our business, not just a tiny cog in a big machine.”

around and that we have to chase everyone else and be solutions orientated,” Steve explains. “We’re constantly looking for ways to improve how we galvanise and provide our customers with solutions.”

Steve says his role as general manager is to create an environment where everyone has a voice and an opportunity to flourish and work to their potential.

He says it’s important for staff to feel like they’re part of the team and company. He says everyone is often part of key decisionmaking processes, especially around Health and Safety, people, culture and wellbeing initiatives.

Continuous improvement and operational excellence, Steve says that in order to stay in front, they have to look to constantly evolve and become more efficient at what they do. He says they will never sit back and take for granted their market share. They will continue to develop and grow while maintaining great relationships with our current loyal customers.

“I will never sit here and think that Perry Metal Protection will be successful because

“My constant drive is maintaining a behaviour that we’re not the best galvanizer

Perry Metal Protection

14 Manchester Place Te Rapa Hamilton (07) 850 0120 pmp@perry.co.nz www.perrymetalprotection.co.nz

We’ve got you covered Your complete service provider for all your Hot Dip Galvanizing, Sandblasting, and painting and Industrial Grating requirements.

Hot Dip Galvanizing gives you the reassurance of protection both inside & out.

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

Perry Metal Protection can now also offer a comprehensive Sandblasting and Painting service with the recent purchase of Waikato Sandblasting Service Ltd. Perry Grating can provide you with a great range of Industrial Grating solutions.

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

These dimensions enable steel items up to 9.3m in length to be single dipped or up to 18.1m in length to be double end-dipped 14 Manchester Place, Te Rapa, Hamilton 3241 | Ph: 07 850 0120 Fx: 07 850 0129 | E: pmp@perry.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 47

Culham Engineering

Sixty years, 700 apprentices Over 60 years as a major engineering firm has seen Culham Engineering add many strings to its bow.

Diversity and agility are the key to its ongoing success, both in the scope of services it provides, and in the breadth and depth of its business practices.

There is much more to the company than structural steel, although recently it manufactured the largest bridge girders ever made in New Zealand.

In those six decades of its existence, the Whangarei-based company has weathered many challenges and come out stronger on the other side, including the past year that brought a pandemic out of the blue.

Culham managing director, Rob Kirwan says that fortunately they have a very good business continuity plan in place, anticipating many adverse scenarios.

“We had considered every eventuality.

We had earthquakes, we had tsunamis – everything, apart from a pandemic,” Rob says.

Culham’s motto is “Plan, Produce, Deliver” and the team got right onto doing what they had to do in the new COVID-19 business environment. They are technically very versatile with an excellent IT department, so working remotely wasn’t an issue, according to Rob, with the transition occurring seamlessly.

Diversity is the company’s strength and despite practically all of Culham’s projects being disrupted during 2020, it has continued working throughout the pandemic.

The company’s range of projects and services include structural steel, pressure vessels and piping, tank construction, marine fabrication, petrochemical industries, industrial maintenance and shutdowns, bridges and more.

Being an essential service, Culham continued its maintenance work at Refinery NZ and for pulp and paper company, Oji Fibre Solutions. This kept around 100 staff in work as usual, but all their people were the company’s number one priority during the lockdown period.

“We answered any questions they had, we made sure their families were okay, that they had sufficient funds, and our HR department kept in touch with them on a daily basis. Everyone worked really hard And I must say we were incredibly grateful for the government’s wage subsidy.”

Like many in the manufacturing sector there are various Covid-related challenges for Culham Engineering – restraints around shipping, materials and issues with supply are all a concern. Rob Kirwan again goes back to the company’s business backbone.

Key projects for Culham Engineering • Ngāwhā Geothermal Power Station (Top Energy) • 30 Madden St Wynyard Quarter (LT McGuinness) • New Zealand International Convention Centre (Fletcher Construction) • Commercial Bay Development (Fletcher Construction) • Camera Obscura Sculpture Whangarei • Westfield Newmarket 277 Shopping Centre (Sentre Group) • Eden Park Façade (Fletcher Construction)

• Tirohanga Whanui (Spencer Road) Bridge (Fulton Hogan).

It’s doing the piers in weathering steel for the Peacocke’s Road bridge over the Waikato River for HEB Construction in Hamilton, which Rob describes as “cool”.

Rob says it was a challenging project, but this demonstrated that there is capacity in New Zealand to build structures of this size.

Companies should not be looking offshore, just because things can seemingly be done cheaper. Culham Engineering has always had the quality and the smarts and now because of projects like AMETI, it has the capacity.

Being involved in offshore fabrication, Rob understands the benefit of international knowledge for mega projects.

Having gained this experience, he is a champion of New Zealand manufacturing, saying that anything that needs to be built here, can be made here – starting with building capability and capacity.

It’s a chicken-and-egg scenario – you have to have the work and you have to have the workers you can’t have one without the other. Inevitably, they spend their money locally which keeps the money-goround going.

There are big engineering companies who want to do good for New Zealand; Rob

We wish Culham Engineering Ltd success for the future and we can support them with top Kemppi product and service.

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The company has a lot on the go and a couple of major infrastructure projects worth mentioning.

Culham has also just finished the (AMETI) Panmure Bridge in Tamaki for Fulton Hogan, which saw Culham Engineering make the biggest girders ever fabricated in New Zealand.

• Project Defender-RNZN and RAN Frigates (Tenix)

NZ Welder Repair Services Ltd

48 | B&C - Issue #130

“We’re mitigating all that with good planning.

We’re talking to our clients, who are very aware of the climate and are getting on board. They’re getting in early with their planning too, after all they’re in the same boat as us.”

|

Culham Engineering

names the likes of LT McGuinness, OJI Fibre Solutions, Fletcher Construction, Fulton Hogan, HEB,CMP, Icon and Naylor Love.

juices to flow, like bringing to life and installing sculptures for local artists from time-to-time.

“They’re companies with real credibility and are here to stay. Sure, they want to make a buck, and they should, we all have to. But even after what has happened with Covid, there are still people who look at sending work offshore, but what is the true cost of that? By the time the cost of handling and transport comes into it, it’s probably no cheaper than doing it all in New Zealand and it builds capacity. Right now, it has to be all about New Zealand – it can’t be about anybody else.”

“We’ve got two guys working on a project at the moment. That will take them a couple of weeks; it has some quite challenging fabrication in it,” Rob says.

Although the company has large-scale projects and big clients, the team at Culham also enjoys opportunities to work on smaller projects and ones that allow their artistic

“I get quite excited about the work we do.

It’s great being involved in big projects like Commercial Bay, Westfield and Sky City, but there are other jobs that are equally challenging and interesting.”

Culham is also happy to support other engineering companies and will pass-on smaller jobs which it knows are better suited to a smaller company. Believing that if everybody is busy, that’s a good thing for the industry in general.

NDT Services & Advanced NDT Inspection for Structural Steel Stork Technical Services New Zealand has a proven track record in the field of conventional non-destructive testing (NDT) and advanced NDT inspection. We aim to provide safe, prompt and accurate NDT inspection and reporting services. Our team of certified and competent NDT specialists use their knowledge and skills to optimise our client’s manufacturing and maintenance processes, while being compliant with IANZ, together with ISO 9001, ISO 45001 and ISO 14001. We are able to provide various NDT inspections for structural steel including visual, dye penetrant, magnetic particle, conventional and digital radiography, and ultrasonic testing and material verification.

NEW ZEALAND HEAD OFFICE | T 06 753 6169 | E admin.nz@stork.com

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Issue #130 - B&C | 49

Culham Engineering

Health & Safety

It then “morphed before you know it”. This is a feature of Culham’s management team – the majority started on the shop floor, giving true depth to their understanding of the business and its clients.

“Our business is about the people. It is not about the robots, it’s not about a truck, it’s not about a crane. It is about our people and what they deliver for our clients. Our people are our lifeblood.”

Fred Walker & Dave Culham

This overarching view of the industry is reflected in Culham Engineering’s apprenticeship programme aimed at keeping up the supply of trained staff which also benefits the whole industry.

Then there is the satisfaction of seeing what those people deliver. Rob Kirwan says it is very rewarding to drive around the country and see jobs that were done by Culham Engineering founder Dave Culham 60 years ago, those that have stood the test of time and those that have happened during his time at the company, which are a source of pride.

The 700 apprentices who have been trained by the company get exposed to a wide variety of projects and skills and Culham is the only engineering firm in New Zealand that is NZQA certified to deliver apprenticeship training in-house, which is a bit of an evolution since Rob Kirwan did his time with the company in the ‘80s.

Culham Engineering (09) 438 7145 sales@culham.co.nz www.culham.co.nz

Back then, it wasn’t Rob’s life-plan to become managing director however, he accumulated skills and knowledge, and took on more responsibility.

Proud to be a key partner supporting Culham Engineering.

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Keeping track Managing health, safety, and security with visitor management systems The workplace is evolving, and organisations across different industries accelerated their digital adoption and transformation in response to the pandemic, integrating new technology solutions and ways of working.

For many companies, flexible working in particular, has provided many benefits to a distributed workforce, letting teams continue to operate and collaborate productively despite geographical distance.

This trend is likely to continue postpandemic, with up to 85 percent of professionals wanting flexible working arrangements to continue post-pandemic, according to recent research.

This shift has also created additional challenges in terms of workforce management as people to return to the office environment, whether in full-time, distributed, or hybrid capacities.

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www.weldingengineers.co.nz | Phone 09 634 1949 50 | B&C - Issue #130

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With the number of workers and visitors onsite constantly changing, having a clear understanding of the people onsite at any given time will be crucial for the security, health and safety of staff, contractors, and other visitors.

Investing in digital visitor management systems is essential to manage this process effectively, according to Pitney Bowes.

Stephen Darracott, vice president and country manager, Pitney Bowes Japan, Australia and New Zealand, says “The coronavirus pandemic highlighted the need for visibility and traceability so companies could keep their workers, contractors, and visitors safe while complying with government guidelines and regulations.

“However, digital visitor management systems can be used for much more than just tracing visitors to office locations.

“Visitor management solutions play a key role in security by helping to manage and record onsite visitors, even when the face of the workforce changes every day.

“Visitor management systems can also incorporate safety inductions for all visitors, which is essential in many workplaces and can be the difference when it comes to executing emergency procedures if an incident occurs.

“Knowing that all visitors have had their safety induction quickly and efficiently is crucial when it comes to compliance and duty of care.

“For hybrid workers, this can ensure that they are regularly refreshed on emergency procedures even if they usually work remotely.”

In terms of site security, digital visitor management systems are also an essential barrier of protection for staff, contractors and visitors, especially in light of the pandemic.

Some of the most up to date digital systems incorporate infrared temperature scanning features.

This lets companies quickly check visitors’ temperatures, notifying relevant staff if an elevated temperature is detected and preventing the person further entry and contact with others on the premises.

This feature has been critical to the COVID-19 response for many companies and will assist in keeping workforces healthy in future.

“For many organisations, it’s essential to understand who is on the premises at all times, letting businesses account for everyone in case of an emergency, assess potential health risks, or to manage security risks posed by unauthorised visitors.

“Investing in visitor management systems that capture and store relevant information to a secure database in real time can greatly enhance existing security processes.” Stephen says.

Carters Building Supplies

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You’ll need a CARTERS Trade Account & Trade Portal access to sign in on the App. Find out more at: www.carters.co.nz/tradeapp

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Issue #130 - B&C | 51

Cement & Concrete

2021 Concrete Industry Apprentice of The Year Concrete apprentices from around New Zealand are encouraged to showcase their talent and commitment by entering the 2021 Concrete Industry Apprentice of the Year award.

Entries are now open, and apprentices can be in to win a share of around $10,000 in prizes, as well as the sought-after title of 2021 Concrete Industry Apprentice of the Year.

Concrete New Zealand (NZ) chief executive, Rob Gaimster believes the reasons for establishing the award in 2017 remain – primarily the need for skilled concrete workers, as well as making sure those considering a career in construction are aware of the opportunities that the concrete industry offers.

“Within the construction sector, our industry has generally found it difficult to attract and retain qualified workers. Over recent years this has become accentuated by a buoyant market and therefore plenty of options for prospective workers.

“Having said that, however, apprentice numbers in BCITO concrete qualifications have doubled over the past few years, so our message must be gaining traction.

“The Apprentice of the Year award is an established brand, respected for recognising

excellent young people in trade training. So, to continue to offer a concrete version as encouragement for those looking to work with concrete, is an important part of our skills development strategy,” Rob says.

“The award is also an ideal way to recognise distinction and give impetus to an apprentice’s career – it’s a chance to demonstrate aptitude and set targets, as well as network with other concrete professionals,” Rob adds.

“Completing the entry process along with your employer and training advisor sends a clear signal of dedication. At the same time, the chance of being acknowledged with the top honour and right to call yourself the 2021 Concrete Industry Apprentice of the Year, is an opportunity not to be missed.”

The award is open to all those enrolled in, or who have completed one of the following BCITO concrete based apprenticeships after October 2019: National Certificate • Precast Concrete (Level 3) • Concrete Production (Level 3) • Product Manufacture: Pipe (Level 3) • Product Manufacture: Masonry Product (Level 3) • Construction: Sawing & Drilling (Level 3) • Construction: Placing & Finishing (Level 3)

Zen Tahana of Bartlett Concrete Placing Ltd, seen here with David Fabish (BCITO) and Dene Cook (Concrete NZ), took home the 2019 Concrete Industry Apprentice of the Year award.

• Concrete Construction (Level 4).

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Cement & Concrete

"

Those in trade training should be recognised as aspiring professionals, and choosing a career the concrete industry offers a range of exciting opportunities for those interested in construction

"

• New provisions have been introduced for the evaluation of compressive strength results for concrete plants that can demonstrate excellent control of their concrete production

• Technical control of concrete production has been tightened by introducing mandatory requirements for seven-day strength testing and daily moisture content measurement of fine aggregate Previous winners of the Concrete Industry Apprentice of the Year award.

New Zealand Certificate • Concrete Construction Skills (Level 3) • Concrete Construction: Commercial and Civil (Level 4) • Concrete Specialist (Level 4) • Concrete Production (Level 4).

“The Concrete Industry Apprentice of the Year award is centred around the principle that perseverance and hard-work are rewarded by success.

“Those in trade training should be recognised as aspiring professionals, and choosing a

career the concrete industry offers a range of exciting opportunities for those interested in construction,” Rob concludes.

The Concrete Industry Apprentice of the Year Award is made possible thanks to the BCITO and Concrete NZ, and will be presented at the Concrete NZ Conference formal dinner on 15 October 2021 in Rotorua.

Concrete Production Standard Revised Standards New Zealand is pleased to announce the publication of NZS 3104:2021 Specification for Concrete Production.

Entries close Monday, 16 August 2021.

Commissioned and developed under a new ‘partnership agreement’ by Concrete NZ, the Standard prescribes the minimum requirements for the production of fresh concrete, and supersedes the 2003 revision of the original 1983 standard.

Entry details can be found on the Concrete NZ website – www.concretenz.org.nz

The principal changes incorporated into the revision are:

Concrete apprentices, their employers and assessors must all complete an entry form.

• Yield testing has been increased for plants producing more than 9000 m3 per year • Content has been updated to acknowledge the influence of new materials, technologies, and practices such as supplementary cementitious materials, recycled materials, and other standards and technical guidelines.

“The revision has been designed to meet an identified industry need,” says Concrete NZ chief executive, Rob Gaimster.

“It also allows users to follow up-to-date and recognised good practice methods, and provides a modern compliance document to enable nationally consistent concrete production.”

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Cement & Concrete

Quality systems for ready mixed concrete plants The recent revision of NZS 3104 Specification for Concrete Production will flow-on into the Concrete NZ Plant Audit Scheme, which provides a rigorous and objective audit of the quality systems in place at a ready mixed concrete plant.

“The Concrete NZ Plant Audit Scheme, formerly the New Zealand Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NZRMCA) Plant Audit Scheme, has existed for nearly 60 years,” says Concrete NZ technical director, Dave McGuigan.

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“The protocols for a concrete quality control scheme, which included a monitoring requirement to see if plants were adhering to the Scheme, were developed in 1963.

“With the consolidation of the New Zealand concrete industry associations in 2017 the former NZRMCA Plant Audit Scheme transitioned to become the Concrete NZ Plant Audit Scheme.”

The Scheme provides an independent and rigorous audit of the quality systems in place at a ready mixed concrete plant which in turn offers suppliers, designers and clients confidence that participating plants, which hold a Certificate of Audit, are supplying concrete in accordance with NZS 3104.

Further to complying with NZS 3104 each batching plant must have:

Or too small.

• A Plant Engineer who is either a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng), a Chartered Member of Engineering New Zealand

(CMEngNZ) or a Registered Engineering Associate (REA), • An appropriately qualified employee who carries out concrete testing; and • Properly maintained records of concrete productions and testing.

“Experienced and qualified auditing engineers, appointed by the Plant Audit Committee, perform the audits of the participating plants,” Dave adds.

“The Committee is comprised of Professional Engineers and Registered Engineering Associates who have experience in concrete production.

“The auditing engineers review the submitted test records and undertake site visits of the plants on a two-year cycle.”

All plants participating in the Scheme report performance and testing data to the Committee annually. Among the criteria audited and reported on are: • Mean concrete strengths and coefficients of variation • Aggregate quality by testing and monitoring • Weigh scale calibration and accuracy • Mixer efficiency tests.

“In addition to the above criteria, the frequency of testing within each quarter year must be submitted to the Committee,” Dave notes.

Concrete NZ Plant Audit Scheme is: Independent & rigorous The Scheme provides a rigorous and objective audit of the quality systems in place at a ready mixed concrete plant to ensure that the concrete produced complies with the requirements of NZS 3104, the main standard used to specify structural concrete.

Preferred choice The vast majority of ready mixed concrete producers in New Zealand choose to be members of the Concrete NZ Readymix Sector Group and use the Scheme to demonstrate that the concrete they produce meets the required industry Standards.

Consumer confidence Purchasers can be confident that ready mixed concrete from a producer audited through the Scheme meets the requirements of NZS 3104. This provides assurance that the concrete will achieve its strength and durability requirements in its application. A list of audited plants is available on the Scheme’s website: www.rmcplantaudit.org.nz.

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Visit our website to get our Tray-dec floor design software 54 | B&C - Issue #130

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Cement & Concrete

Spare Parts

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Issue #130 - B&C | 55

Cement & Concrete

“Failure to maintain testing requirements can result in the withdrawal of an Audit Certificate.”

“All participating plants will also have an onsite audit every second year to verify that the information reported regularly by the Plant Engineer accurately represents the plant’s performance.

Concrete NZ issues production and delamination guides

be reassessed to determine if a 12-month certificate will be issued.

Concrete NZ has produced two new technical guides in response to feedback from industry.

“It is not mandatory for a plant to hold a Certificate of Audit from the Scheme,” Dave says.

“The committee meet quarterly to assess the audit reports for one of the Scheme’s four zones. They will then determine if the plants are acceptable for issuing a 12-month Certificate of Audit or if they need to respond to non-conformances.

“It is therefore important to be aware that when concrete, specified to meet the requirements of NZS 3104, is supplied from an un-audited plant, the purchaser and/or the designer is responsible for the implementation of the audit process and/ or project testing to ensure the concrete complies with New Zealand Building Code.”

“Plants assessed for the first time, after receipt of a plant report, will be subject to a site inspection. If requirements are met a three-month interim Certificate of Audit is issued, during which time it will

The management of the Concrete NZ Plant Audit Scheme is certified to ISO 9001 and undergoes an external audit by BVQI (Bureau Veritas Quality International) on an annual basis to maintain its ISO 9001 certification.

Concrete Production Guide for New Zealand

Guide to Minimising the Risk of Delamination in Concrete

All aspects of production from plant and equipment, concrete science and batching, through to equipment calibration, ordering and dispatch and control/special testing are covered.

This illustrated guide is written to provide the necessary awareness of risks and mitigation strategies for delamination of concrete, with specific focus on finished floor slabs.

Concrete NZ

Both the Concrete Production Guide for New Zealand and Guide to Minimising the Risk of Delamination in Concrete can be downloaded from the Concrete NZ website: www.concretenz.org.nz.

• Driveways • Earthquake Repairs

Phone: 09 275 9906 Email: sales@concretec.co.nz www.concretec.co.nz

Manufacturer of a comprehensive and diverse range of Precast Concrete products.

Specialising in Architectural Finishes and offsite finishing capabilities.

• New Home Specialists • Patios & Paths Tel: 0508 873 7483 Email: sales@affordableconcrete.co.nz www.affordableconcrete.co.nz

Concrete Industry Engineers Mixer Manufactures Service and Refurbishments

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Level 4/70 The Terrace Wellington admin@concretenz.org.nz www.concretenz.org.nz

Cement & Concrete

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TM

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

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

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

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

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Cement & Concrete

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Issue #130 - B&C | 59

Cement & Concrete

Concrete hydrodemolition specialists Founded by Kiwi owners in 1996, Aquamax has built a reputation based around ultra-high pressure (40,000 psi) water jetting. The company became a forerunner in using water jetting for road line removal, paint and corrosion stripping, aircraft paint stripping and descaling of geothermal turbines.

Over the past five years, Aquamax has embarked on a programme of expansion and investment in newer, high-powered equipment.

Seven pumps from the well-known German manufacturer, WOMA, have been purchased to fill out the range delivering heavy-duty hydrodemolition work right down to precise blasting on oil and gas pipework.

This ensures a good, roughened surface for new concrete to key into.

The current construction boom has driven the need for further concrete-related services.

Concrete related services: • Hydrodemolition such as rebar exposure • Hydro–scabbling such as for Type B construction joints • Paint stripping of concrete and blockwork • Creating specialist finishes such as stencilled images.

Hydrodemolition is being increasingly specified as it allows concrete to be removed without damaging the immediate structure or rebar.

This is usually required when new structure is being tied into old. Other examples are

60 | B&C - Issue #130

Stripe Hog creates an excellent scabbled surface.

cleaning up pile caps, cutting holes and slots when there is a lot of steel in the structure.

Recent successes have been the Devonport Training Jetty, Moorhouse and Durham Overbridges, and some significant seismic repair work on a prominent Wellington tower block. We are currently engaged on the America’s Cup wharf at Wynyard – a major remediation project.

Hydro-scabbling is a very fast and effective method for creating a Type-B construction joint with, for example, a 10 mm peak-totrough roughness in the concrete surface.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Our new Stripe Hog can deliver up to 300 sqm per day of scabbled surface. Pictured removing waterproof membrane and creating scabble.

The appearance of bare concrete can be significantly enhanced with etched decorative designs.

Ultra-high pressure water-jetting cuts through the concrete laitance to expose the aggregate and create a much darker, textured surface. By using a stencil, very accurate and crisp designs can be applied.

The process can be conducted in-situ on standard panels and utilises low-flow rate equipment, and is dust-free and creates minimal mess which is easily contained and vacuumed away.

Recently, Aquamax has invested in an automated manipulator called a Jetframe (pictured). This tool delivers scabbling and rebar exposure with an automated machine rather than an operator holding onto a lance.

The health and safety benefits are clear along with increased productivity. It is also possible to use higher power pumps as the machine does not tire when loaded up with high back thrust.

Aquamax looks to have a bright future as it continues to develop its reputation as New Zealand’s leading specialist water jetting company.

Aquamax operates nationwide with depots in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

For more information please contact Hamish Coop on 021 316 844 or refer to Aquamax.co.nz.

Cement & Concrete

Your building could be put to the ultimate test.

So we do the same to our steel.

At Pacific Steel, we put all our products through a rigorous testing regime. Our dedicated laboratory has full IANZ certification and we’re the only local manufacturer of reinforcing steel to have third party ACRS certification. So when we say our SEISMIC® reinforcing steel is tested to meet the AS/NZS 4671 standard, you can be sure it’s been put to the ultimate test.

A steel bar about to be tested in one of five testing machines at our laboratory in Otahuhu.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 61

Cement & Concrete The big picture

About Concrete NZ

CONCRETE BENEFITS Concrete is a sustainable choice for the future and is a key link in the circular economy because of its recycling potential compared to other materials.

• Major benefits of concrete: • Durability • Thermal efficiency • Acoustic performance • Fire resistance • Roading • Stormwater management applications

Concrete NZ aims to be a highly respected and valued association, supporting industry to position concrete as the resilient construction material of choice for a modern New Zealand.

(PCNZ) and the New Zealand Concrete Society (NZCS).

This will be achieved through a consolidated voice that brings confidence, knowledge and leadership to members, industry and regulators.

VISION & MISSION

Founding member organisations of Concrete NZ are the Cement & Concrete Association of New Zealand (CCANZ), the New Zealand Concrete Masonry Association (NZCMA), the New Zealand Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NZRMCA), Precast New Zealand

Concrete NZ’s focus in the broader construction environment is to work towards optimising a resilient built environment that benefits all New Zealanders.

There is much government can do, in partnership with industry, to ensure New Zealand has quality infrastructure and housing, which is central to ensuring economic success and the welfare of New Zealanders.

Concrete NZ is available to help on any concrete matter, whether it is material, design or structurally related; and looks forward to discussing with Ministers the challenges and opportunities covered in this briefing.

VALUES

Through a pan-industry work programme Concrete NZ will strive to improve perceptions, raise standards and promote quality through its consolidated voice.

Areas of activity will include regulatory advocacy, knowledge transfer and Standards development.

If you want to be a member or if you want to be a partner, this is how Concrete NZ operates in its own words.

Unified We will work hard to come together and stay unified, integrative and inclusive.

Flexible We will remain agile, reshaping with the changing needs of industry.

Concrete NZ seeks to become, “A highly respected and valued association, supporting industry to position concrete as the resilient construction material of choice for a modern New Zealand”.

And be perceived as, “The concrete industry’s consolidated voice, bringing confidence, knowledge and leadership to members, industry and regulators”.

Tenacious We advocate for our customers – we ask ourselves the hard questions.

Professional We take a factual and professional approach.

Concrete NZ

Level 4/70 The Terrace Wellington admin@concretenz.org.nz www.concretenz.org.nz

Quality based Focused on standards and committed to quality excellence.

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11 Bristol Place, Te Rapa, Hamilton, New Zealand | frankf@jpmarshall.co.nz | jpmarshall.co.nz 62 | B&C - Issue #130

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Cement & Concrete

Mainmark Overcomes Site Challenges with Innovative Raft Slabs project timeline. While traditional compacted gravel rafts would take a minimum of seven days each in favourable conditions, Mainmark was able to place four Terefil rafts in just five days.

Summary When Offset Developments, a residential building company began construction on a four-unit complex in Christchurch, it encountered a significant challenge when it came to laying the foundations.

According to George Nicol, Director, Offset Developments, “This is the first time that Terefil has been used for raft slabs. Given the predicament we were in, we were very happy to trial this solution as the alternatives were extremely expensive.”

After receiving a geotechnical report, the company was advised to place a raft under the foundation slab to protect the site from possible subsidence, soil liquefaction and other issues that may arise due to the weakness of the ground. The project was designed with a 2m deep gravel raft.

However, as the water table was only 1.2m below the surface, the ground was too soft for gravel to be compacted.

“As it turns out, we couldn’t have been happier with the outcome. Not only is it a fantastic result, but we’ve discovered a new solution to address a common problem when it comes to improving the weak swampy soil that is prevalent in many areas of Christchurch.”

Mainmark developed a unique solution using Terefil®, a proprietary, advanced, structural lightweight cementitious-based filler that is commonly used for void filling.

Objectives

Solution

Mainmark was required to develop an alternative raft solution that could accommodate the shallow water table which was contributing to the site’s very soft ground conditions. Additionally, the solution needed to deliver ground improvement and liquefaction mitigation benefits for the proposed residential complex.

Mainmark worked in consultation with KGA Geotechnical Group Ltd, specialists in geotechnical engineering, to design a 900mm deep Terefil raft to be placed underneath the foundation slab. As the top of the raft was 200mm below the ground, the total excavation depth was 1100mm.

“Mainmark was also a pleasure to deal with and we’ll definitely be using Mainmark again in the future.”

Terefil creates a non-liquefiable cementitious layer with a uniform mat that provides structural support. It requires no compaction, causes minimal site disruption during application and is self-levelling, lightweight and extremely cost effective. This fast and easy to place solution also has no detrimental effects on the environment.

The speed at which Mainmark was able to place the rafts, following excavation of the site, resulted in a considerably reduced

1a. Mainmark team preparing the Offset Developments site for placement of Terefil® raft; 1b. Terefil solution being placed; 1c. Ground beam formwork placed during the raft installation, making construction of the concrete slab faster and easier; 2a. 1 of the 4 Terefil rafts placed; 2b. Another Terefil raft placed, with frame ready for waffle raft slab 3. Large 6,000m3 Terefil raft at a different site, showing stage 2 of 3 in progress - on the left builders constructing footings on the Stage 1 slab completed the week prior.

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Counties Ready Mix

Always striving to be better Counties Ready Mix are in the middle of redeveloping their site as they continue to keep up with the demand.

Since establishing over 22 years ago the company has grown significantly, but sales manager Paul Taupola says the last few months particularly, had been one of their busiest periods yet.

“I can’t remember a winter being this busy.

Normally winter is a bit of a slow time but we just haven’t seen any let up at the moment, so it’s just a sign of the times and shows how things are at the moment out there, in our industry anyway.”

Because of the continuous development, especially over the last three to four years, the company is currently in the final stages of redevelopment of their yard.

“At the moment we are extending our site which we are in the later stages at the moment, so it allows us to increase our volume but also to increase the room that we have on the premises.

“We are also instructing a new staff laboratory batching office, so this basically just allows us to accommodate any increasing demand for Ready Mix Concrete.”

When it comes to the growth and success of the business, Paul contributes it to their customers.

“We are very lucky - we have a very loyal base with customers who are honest, patient and very upfront when we get things wrong, so for me they're probably our most important key, we wouldn’t be where we are at the moment without them.”

However even with a strong client base, the company is always striving to be better.

“We are always trying to improve. I mean with technology we’ve got a new batching

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Concrete Industry Engineers Mixer Manufactures Service and Refurbishments

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programme in place, we had one previously, but we’ve found this new one which will help us produce quicker concrete and keep us in the loop a little bit more, so we’ve brought that on board in the last six weeks.

“We are also not afraid to use technology, if it’s beneficial to us or we can see any way we can improve the company, we’ll try them out, and if they don’t work but we think we can use it then we will definitely give it a go.”

We are proud to be associated with the team at COUNTIES READY MIX

Contact Us Today!

09 296 6394

Counties Ready Mix

Products and services Ready Mixed Concrete Counties Ready Mix main function is the production and supply of ready mixed concrete to the South Auckland and Franklin districts.

As well as more efficient processes, environmental awareness has also always been paramount to the companys’ values.

“We have always been aware of our impact in the industry; I mean the concrete industry in general hasn’t had a great record in the past regarding environmental procedures, but since I’ve been here in the 12 years we’re always striving, as I imagine quite a few of the other companies are, so we are very environmentally aware.

“We try and use a lot of our recycled water when we can.

We manufacture a lot of concrete blocks and we also have a precast plant where we will make the concrete blocks so it doesn’t get dumped into landfill.

“We are always looking to improve our environmental impact; I mean if we can use recycled products, we look into that as well, we are always looking to try and improve how we do things.”

Counties Ready Mix 14 Bremner Road Drury Auckland (09) 2946 222 info@crml.co.nz www.crml.co.nz

“We pride ourselves on quality products and exceptional service which are both frequently touted attributes but seldom regularly delivered on in our industry.

We are always looking to improve our environmental impact; I mean if we can use recycled products, we look into that as well, we are always looking to try and improve how we do things.

- Counties Ready Mix sales manager Paul Taupola

“This approach has developed strong relationships with customers who have faith in the solutions we provide.

All standard grades from 17.5 to 50MPa are supplied along with specialist concretes such as high strength concrete, self-compacting, permeable, decorative fibre reinforced concretes and high durability concretes.

Technical Services Counties Ready Mix operates an onsite lab for testing (both on site and off) and customer reporting.

Customers may also require IANZ testing which can be accommodated also.

Supporting Products Counties Ready Mix supplies supporting products as required by the industry to ensure projects run smoothly such as curing compounds, release agents, finishing aids, waterproofers, concrete sealers additives, and admixtures.

Other Products Counties Ready Mix also supply reinforcing steel, mesh, polythene, polystyrene pods for raft floors and hand tools.

OPTIMISING CONCRETE SLABS AND PAVEMENT DESIGNS DESIGN SPECIFICATION ONSITE SUPPORT 0800 436 672 www.inforceglobal.com

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Frame & Truss

Reframing building requirements The FTMA consists of small and big businesses throughout New Zealand and has a long history of lobbying Government on behalf of its members.

Those in the frame and truss industry find comfort in knowing they are represented by the Frame & Truss Manufacturers’ Association (FTMA).

As a collective the FTMA can put forward concerns and issues on behalf of the industry to the benefit of members and New Zealanders alike.

In the current market conditions, frame and truss suppliers are hard pressed keeping up with demand and are experiencing materials, labour and skill shortages. Very few, if any, have time to focus on anything else but trying to keep customers and staff as happy as possible.

Also, with the implementation of MBIE’s Building for Climate Change (BfCC) programme and other proposed changes to the building code, those in the frame and truss industry find comfort in knowing they are represented by the Frame & Truss Manufacturers’ Association (FTMA).

In late 2020, MBIE asked the public and industry for their perspectives on different aspects of the BfCC programme.

Effective outreach requires relationship and partnership. A critical relationship that the FTMA values is with the BCITO. Through the BCITO, the FTMA hopes to engage with young people who are leaving school or people who want to consider careers in building and construction.

There are currently generous incentives for BCITO apprenticeships in frame and truss industry as well as many other building industry trades and the FTMA is actively promoting these to the membership.

A research study conducted by Thinkstep estimated that the building and construction sector contribute approximately 20 percent of New Zealand greenhouse gas emissions.

The BfCC programme introduced the Whole-of-Life-Embodied Carbon Emissions Framework which aims to reduce carbon emissions throughout the life cycle of buildings.

Here, FTMA member services manager Peter Carruthers says that wood-based buildings can have an advantage considering wood embodies carbon dioxide sequestered from the atmosphere, it is a moderately good insulator, and uses less energy in production when compared to many other building materials.

However, the complexities in estimating the embodied carbon value of different building materials and systems may make the system difficult to implement and apply fairly. FTMA is seeking to make any such system as simple as possible.

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Another area MBIE identified is the thermal efficiency and insulation performance of residential buildings in New Zealand which comes short compared to other countries.

Although timber has certain advantages over other materials regarding sustainability, and is a moderately good insulator in its own right, standard wall frame construction may struggle to meet the new insulation performance levels proposed.

Peter says, “This could have a significant impact in terms of the way which standard houses, townhouse, and units are constructed. It is likely to mean the need to make exterior facing walls thicker just so you can compose them with more insulation value.

“With the common sort of New Zealand building practice, which is basically a 90 mm wide stud wall for the outer facing, you don’t have that much there to work with, and it’s actually quite difficult to achieve these thermal performance targets that they are looking for.

“FTMA would prefer not to use 140 mm or wider timber for framing as that would severely impact on costs and productivity.

“However, there are numerous overseas examples of standard size framing used with an additional outer or inner insulation layer and achieving good insulation values. There’s quite a lot of thought and investigation going into what we can do to improve this.”

FTMA also has concerns regarding MBIE’s potential reclassification of frames and trusses as prefabricated modular building components.

As many in the construction industry are already aware, the frame and truss industry has been building off-site for decades and the frames and trusses receive sign off on code compliance by the building inspector at the building site.

By and large this approach has worked well as the open frames and trusses are easy to inspect on site.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Peter says that MBIE’s initiative to potentially reclassify frames and trusses as modular components could impose additional costs and time delays for frame and truss manufacturers and builders alike by moving the inspection process from the building site back to the factory.

“Generally, we have a good working relationship with MBIE and other government departments. However, we also need to push back in cases where proposed changes may impose more costs and complications than is justified.”

Voicing its members’ concerns, the FTMA has already made submissions to MBIE to address the potential consequences a number of the new requirements and initiatives might incur.

2021 Sharpen Your Vision conference Originally planned for 2020, the longawaited national frame and truss conference, 2021 Sharpen Your Vision, will take place 7-9 September in Wellington at Te Papa Tongarewa.

The conference is intended to inspire FTMA members and industry partners in related professions by increasing an understanding and awareness of current issues in the frame and truss industry.

To do this, the conference is made up of key sessions which focus on industry reforms, building regulations, the latest in frame and truss technology and much more.

In addition to the sessions, conference attendees will enjoy events like a technical workshop for frame and truss detailers, the Pryda icebreaker function, Red Stag Cocktails function, the Mitek Gala Dinner, and a technology expo showcase.

Building materials and component suppliers, equipment suppliers, frame & truss fabricators, builders, building designers, architects, building inspectors and building certifiers should consider attending.

Those in the frame and truss industry find comfort in knowing they are represented by the Frame & Truss Manufacturers’ Association (FTMA).

Registration can be completed on the FTMA website: www.ftma.co.nz.

FTMA

PO Box 5745 Victoria Street West Auckland 021 912 977 member.services@ftma.co.nz www.ftma.co.nz

Frame & Truss

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 67

Frame & Truss

No regrets!

Regret – a negative cognitive or emotional state that involves blaming ourselves for a bad outcome, feeling a sense of loss or sorrow at what might have been, or wishing we had made a different decision in the past.

Ross Wallace at The Truss Joint commented: “Vekta support is pretty quick! Yeah a couple of times I put the ticket in, normally within half an hour someone’s onto it. It’s good and sometimes I haven’t got all the info ready.

“You know it’s the same as anywhere else - you have turnover of staff and you are bringing new people in and training them, but I think from a training point of view when we are talking with people they are not going ‘I don’t know I will have to find out’ they are generally well trained and versed in what we want and being able to fix or get someone to fix it for us quickly.

Regret originates in a comparison between outcomes of a chosen option and the non-chosen alternatives in which the latter outperforms the former.

Regret sits on a scale from the simple everyday regret – ‘I should have stuck to the speed limit’ or ‘I should have brought the washing in before the rain’. Then there are the regrets that keep you awake at night– loved ones, family, friends, the person who got away or the words you didn’t say.

No matter what causes the regret or where it sits on the scale, the emotional response is the same–sadness, remorse or disappointment.

At Vekta, it is interesting how many times we hear about regret from our customers.

“The only regret I have is that I didn’t buy it a couple of years sooner.” - Bruce Wallace, The Truss Joint.

“Just hurry up and do it, I wish I’d done it 4 years ago!” - Dean Kidd, Kidd Truss.

“I reflect on what we had to put up with over all the years before the purchase of our Vekta Razer S5. We wonder how we got this far without it.” - Alan Donagal, Timber Walls and Trusses.

So, what is it exactly that creates the regrets for Vekta customers? Why would not purchasing a Vekta Razer sooner create a regret? To better understand this- it’s only right to hear directly from the customers!

Expectation Regrets often revolve around expectations.

The reality does not live up to the expectations created in your mind – consider TV-shows, movies, restaurants on-line shopping experiences. For the Truss Joint, the expectations for their Razer Saw were exceeded.

“It’s meeting all our expectations, I am sure there are others that use it differently, but generally we get timber in, timber out and it’s labelled and cut exactly how we want it.

It’s the best piece of machinery that I’ve put in. I mean the other saw that I had when it went in… was the best bits of machinery you could buy at the time, you wouldn’t go back to one of them, that’s our recut machine and it probably will because with the Razer, it’s going, it’s flying along!”

For Richard Schoof at Rainbow Frame and Truss in Albany, WA it was the speed of the saw that exceeded expectations.

“The speed of operation compared to the Mango saw immediately improved, what we used to cut in a day, the Razer will do in a couple of hours. Also our use of timber has improved. We used to carry a lot more stock and different lengths. You’d have to work it all out in your brain, now the saw does it all 68 | B&C - Issue #130

for you. We’ve really been able to reduce the amount of stock held.”

For Dean Kidd at Kidd Truss there were a few surprise elements that exceeded expectations.

“There are two features that have really stood out for me. The ability to run ‘Razer View’ on my computer. I can sit in the office and oversee what is happening in production, review statistics and if the guys get stuck I’m instantly notified and able to help. The ‘onthe-fly’ cutting (optimising random lengths of timber) is also fantastic. I’m able to put re-used timbers on the live deck and the Razer automatically works out what can be cut using them.”

Andrew Sternberg from Dahlsens commented: “The operators especially love the printer (Vekta P3 Printer). The ability to print the plate location on the truss chords provides a huge advantage when putting the trusses together. For management, the feedback loop is fantastic. The ability to see what timbers are going through the saw, and the down and uptime allows us to review internal processes and make the improvements necessary. I also appreciate the ability to make changes on the fly and test them before going live.”

Alan Donagal from Timber Walls and Trusses: “A few years in and the benefits have exceeded our expectations. Not only from a financial point of view in a number of areas, but we have also ‘deskilled’ our plant as far as requirements for employing workers to cut truss components. Also, the safety aspects in the use of cutting equipment is now not an issue.”

Future considerations Regret often happens when a decision is made then something in the future (controlled or not) changes resulting in the earlier decision being regrettable.

Booking that European summer getaway for July 2020 – regrettable decision. In relation to automated machinery for the Frame and Truss industry – capacity is not something you want to regret.

“We’ve grown over 50 percent in the last 2 years, the saw has had a big part to play in that, from a cutting point of view, knowing

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we could do that and having heaps of capacity up our sleeve, we know that’s not an issue for us.

“We are still only running at 60-70 percent capacity – at 60-70 percent speed – when we are cutting at that high end of what we need to produce. So we’ve still got a lot of capacity left in that saw and from where I sit, I don’t have to worry about sawing capacity for some time now, which is really good and I know when I was at another company and there was a lot of growth, we grew quite rapidly over a period of time.

“Sawing you know, we’d fix something and we’d be back at the saw for our bottleneck, so you are always upgrading your saw.

Knowing there is so much more capacity left on that saw is very comforting.

- Bruce Wallace, The Truss Joint.

“In Ballarat we’ve been able to reduce our wastage by 60 percent thanks to the Razer Saw. We also get an extra 30 percent efficiency in cutting in the same period of time than from other equipment.” - Andrew Sternberg, Dahlsens.

“I was interested in the Vekta Razer as my prior history with the Razers had been good.

I wanted something that was proven in the market and could be trusted – if something breaks down, I need it fixed and I felt that Vekta and the Razer gave me that assurance.

The footprint was also important- it needed to fit into my factory space… One of the main benefits was dealing with an Australian supplier and support team.” - Dean Kidd, Kidd Truss.

When it comes to automated machinery, the support you receive is definitely not something you want to be kicking yourself over! So, what do Vekta customers say?

“Vekta service is something we can’t fault at all. We’ve probably only had the saw out for a day maximum, maybe two. I remember in the early days, Ed would be in America and he would jump on his phone and log in and correct any issue.

“Being located in a remote area the support was a big concern. It’s different for the big companies with two or three saws. If one goes down they can still keep operating but when you’ve only got the one support is more critical. If it breaks down we need it up and running quick and smart. I really can’t fault the Vekta service and support at all.”

- Richard Schoof, Rainbow Frame and Truss.

“I put a ticket in early one morning, we wanted to put our logo on and be able to print it on the bottom chords so it could be seen. The guy from New Zealand rang in no time, I went out and logged him on and bang, bang, bang, next thing you know it was on there.”

Nathan Salama, Sydney Frame and Truss: “When issues tend to arise, the new system allows us to quickly alert the team to have things resolved rapidly. This form of interaction is especially useful as it creates less down time. After a brief phone call, a technician remotely logs into the machine to rectify the issue. This process has been great, the technicians have been extremely helpful in answering questions on product knowledge and resolving our issues in a timely manner.”

Dean Kidd, Kidd Truss: “My operators have all had experience with different linear saws. They really love the Razer and how easy it is to use.

They’re enjoying having no overtime. The installation was perfect, completed over two days and training started on the third.

The whole Vekta team has been fantastic!

David was awesome, he was helpful with the guys and took his time with helping them learn.”

Andrew Sternberg, Dahlsens: “The support and service is second to none.

With Vekta we can get constant support.

We can call any time of the day and do not need to worry about time zones. We can ask the stupidest questions and get a response within 24 hours. It has been a struggle to get information from other countries. We can also get spares and consumables delivered within 24 to 48 hours.”

As emotional people we are always going to have regrets. The emotion of wishing we had made a different decision in the past will always creep up on us. Living a life with ‘no regrets’ is just a catchphrase.

If you can learn from the mistakes others in the industry have made, it is this – contact Vekta and find out more about our automated equipment for your Frame and Truss plant.

From Razer Linear saws, PackFeeders, Truss Transfers, Smart Conveyor Lines and StakPros to name a few. You won’t regret it! info@vekta.com.au.

Frame & Truss

DELIVERING PRECISION The Vekta Razer V5 is the ultimate linear saw, designed to have maximum safety, flexibility and capability. The Razer can be customised to suit• Your budget: Fully installed systems starting at $220,000 AUD, with upgrade options as your budget and needs change over time.

• Your workflow: Left-to-right or right-to-left timber flow, as well as in from the front or back and out to the front or back.

• Your Space: Fully customisable to fit into even the smallest plants. Everything is built to order, so Vekta can customise virtually any aspect of your machine.

• Your Processes: Highly configurable software that easily lets you choose where and how optimising is done, what you want printed on each different member type, cut orders, options to go paperless and so much more.

Don’t just look at the outputs. You need to consider the entire package. The support, being a local supplier and not international, the servicing requirements and costs, optimisation, absolutely everything.

Vekta and the Razer ticks all the boxes.

Andrew Sternberg, Dahlsens

info@vekta.com.au I vekta.com.au

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 69

Cladding & Facades

The real cost of leaky homes Most of us would agree that a good building envelope should separate the inside from the outside, provide a healthy and comfortable internal environment that keeps the weather out, is energy efficient and manages internal condensation.

However, it is contentious whether most building envelopes do this.

Like stumbling on a landmine from the wars of yesteryear, discovering you’re sitting on a leaky home can feel as explosive and disruptive to your wellbeing and day-today life. In both scenarios, you’d expect the problems of the past to stay in the past, but their consequences are felt even today.

Some of the most notorious leaky homes were built in the mid-1990s. Often due to faulty cladding, these leaky homes failed to keep the weather out and trapped moisture within the façade assembly.

In combination with poor internal condensation management and cold conditions, these homes frequently cost homeowners their money and health as a result of the home hosting moulds, fungus and rot.

In the Growing Up in New Zealand study, it was reported that about 60 percent of children lived in homes which did not maintain healthy temperature and humidity levels.

Healthy ranges from 18-24°C with a relative humidity of 40-60 percent. Although the study did not attribute poor indoor conditions to leaky homes, they should be considered one of the various contributing factors.

A functional building envelope is pivotal in creating an ideal indoor environment. If anyone should know, it’s the team at Oculus Architectural Engineering Limited. Their goal is to engineer the entire building envelopes for optimum building efficiency.

Oculus director and co-owner James Powers says, “There’s a holistic view, fundamentally simplified down to ‘build tight, ventilate right’.

If you have a good building envelope it provides a good separation between the inside and outside, and it’s easier to manage the internal environment.

“Any internal environment would require heating and ventilation. It’s just that it’s a high-performance building envelope requires far less heating and cooling than what is commonly encountered in New Zealand.”

Getting it right from the start All the same, many New Zealanders still hold onto old ways of doing things, even if they prove to be less effective in ventilating and managing condensation like opening and closing windows according to the weather.

According to MBIE’s website, Building Performance, there are particular areas of the home which are more susceptible to leaking and can compromise a home’s overall weathertightness. A home’s overall weathertightness can be compromised right from the start if these areas of the home aren’t considered in the design process: • Flat roofs • Wall junctions

What is the single biggest thing that we could do to improve building envelope performance?

My answer to that would be windows and window detailing.

- Oculus director and co-owner James Powers.

• Pergola and handrail fixings • Outdoor balconies • Clearance levels at the bottom of cladding • If the outdoor ground level is higher than the indoor floor level.

According to MBIE’s website, Building Performance, there are particular areas of the home which are more susceptible to leaking and can compromise a home’s overall weathertightness.

Those areas include: • Flat roofs • Wall junctions

Using this method means a home’s overall thermal performance will vary as much as New Zealand’s weather.

A lot of these issues come down to design.

To explain, James says, “If you’ve got a façade engineer who is only focusing on the vertical elements of the walls and windows, for example, then you’re missing out on a lot of complexity of how walls interact with other elements, such as roofs, decks, balconies, basements, et cetra.

And the junctions are obviously the most complicated element to resolve.

“If you’re only concentrating on the vertical face, all of those complex areas are missed.”

70 | B&C - Issue #130

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

• Pergola and handrail fixings • Outdoor balconies • Clearance levels at the bottom of cladding • If the outdoor ground level is higher than the indoor floor level.

A home’s overall weathertightness can be compromised before the foundations are even laid when these areas of the home are overlooked in the design process.

As James says, the whole assembly of a roof or façade needs to be considered with a focus on these more complex areas for the best outcomes.

Cladding & Facades

oculus Building warm and dry homes can seem impossible and unaffordable here in NZ, but if we don’t get it right we’ll be stuck paying for leakers for decades.

While it can seem hard, we’re here to make it easy.

With a bit of science, a few smart details, and some care during installation we can construct desirable warm, dry, comfortable and affordable buildings that protect us all from future risks of poor performance.

Why work with Oculus?

We simplify details during design so they’re easy and straightforward to install.

We help during construction because we pick up our phones and come to site to sort out tricky details.

We create solutions. We don’t just highlight the issues; we work with you to find the best outcome.

We know the code and we explain how things work to Council so that you can get your consent and get to work.

Services Building Envelope Design Engineering Judgement Airtightness Testing Energy Modelling Passive House Design + Certification Hygrothermal Analysis Waterproofing + Basement Tanking Design Façade Testing Facilities Weathertightness + Condensation Investigations

oculus Oculus Architectural Engineering Ltd Auckland | Wellington | Queenstown 09 820 0364

www.oculusltd.co.nz info@oculusltd.co.nz pink.moose Oculus Architectural Engineering

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 71

Cladding & Facades

Windows, eyes to the home As mentioned previously, there are many elements to be aware of when preserving the integrity of the building envelope like the standard window detail.

According to James, the standard window detail sits outside the optimum position because of misunderstandings around how water is kept out of buildings and how windows should be detailed.

“What is the single biggest thing that we could do to improve building envelope performance? My answer to that would be windows and window detailing,” says James.

“Windows in New Zealand have aluminium joinery. Aluminium is one of the best conductors of heat known to science, so it is very efficient in conducting heat out of your building on a cold day and very efficient at conducting heat into your building on a hot day.

More than just a minor inconvenience, repeated condensation can damage the surrounding area, promoting mould and rot in the affected area.

James says, “I think our fundamental concern at the moment is around condensation management. There’s something called a dew point.

This is the point at which warm moist air condenses into water and what we want to do is ensure that that dew point occurs outside of the thermal envelope so it doesn’t occur within walls and roofs in the form of interstitial condensation.

“I think that’s a fairly new consideration for New Zealand, because a lot of the concerns we’ve had until recently have been about keeping water out of buildings and keeping the weather out of buildings.

“It’s been difficult to assess whether something from weather damage or condensation damage.”

“The position of the window within the building envelope or within the wall is very critical to how thermal efficiency is achieved. Ideally a window would be in line with the insulation.

Like James, many of those within the construction industry know the downsides to aluminium joinery. Yet, in spite of its low thermal performance, aluminium joinery is still one of the most popular choices in New Zealand because of its low upfront cost.

“As that’s not the case in New Zealand, the window by far has the biggest impact on the thermal performance of the building. By changing that we will have a massive impact on how our buildings perform.”

Some would say that cost and building performance have their tradeoffs and sometimes you have to choose between quality materials or sticking to the budget.

In addition to the heat loss resulting from aluminium’s low specific heat and high thermal conductivity, aluminium joinery also contributes to the ‘weeping windows’ problem.

Oculus

515 Rosebank Road Avondale Auckland (09) 820 0364 info@oculusltd.co.nz www.oculusltd.co.nz

Much like depending on the weather to ventilate a home, New Zealanders continue to compromise thermal performance just to save on upfront costs – only to pay later in poor health outcomes, heating bills and home repairs.

Let’s talk about leaks NZ has spent $50B tax dollars (and counting) fixing leaks, and they’re a roofer’s worst nightmare.

We all do our best to build dry buildings, but what happens when you get a call from your client 5 years later complaining about a leak?

Scenario: You just built a 2-storey apartment building. Block walls, concrete slabs, timber upper floor. Stucco on the block, weatherboard on the timber, steel roof, double glazing, and insulation on the walls and ceilings. Simple enough, but right before construction, Council asks for inset patios on the second floor. Seriously? A last-minute pain in the neck, but you roll with the punches, get it done, and hand the keys to your happy client.

Five years later you get a call asking why four ground floor rooms reek of damp with stained ceilings. Shit. The patios. You checked everything, but maybe something tore? To fix it, you tear out the ceiling to find wet insulation and soaked concrete. Plug the drains, flood the roof with dye and wait for drips, but no leaks. Hmmm… Now what?

72 | B&C - Issue #130

Maybe it’s condensation.

Condensation happens when moist air touches a cold (i.e. below the dew point temp.) surface. Air at a certain temperature and relative humidity (0% means no water, and 100% means clouds) has a related dew point. Air at 20 degrees and 60%RH has a dew point of 12 degrees. So, any surfaces below 12 degrees, will be wet like a cold glass of beer. Following me so far?

Back to our example: Concrete slab with membrane above and ceiling insulation below. Code asks for roof insulation so it’s good, right? Well, if you’re putting the insulation UNDER your concrete, it keeps the people inside warm, but by doing that, it’s keeping the concrete above it much colder. When the outdoor temperature goes below 12 degrees, so will the concrete and water will form on the underside of the slab.

There’s enough airflow through penetrations in the ceiling to carry moisture (heat rises), but not enough to dry it out. After 5 winters, the water started seeping through the ceiling.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

So if you can’t plug the leak, how do you fix it?

You control the moisture and/or the temperature. The best fix is a passive one, so instead of wasting energy with a dehumidifier, just keep the concrete above that dew point temperature.

The easiest way? Put the insulation above the concrete (i.e. warm roof) and minimize the ceiling insulation. This uses interior heat to keep the concrete warm so even without vapour control, it’s above the dew point and will stay dry. Easy as.

If you have a leak you just can’t fix, maybe it’s condensation. We’ll sort it.

-Peter Raimondo, Senior Building Enclosure Engineer at Oculus Architectural Engineering Ltd

If you have a leak you just can’t fix, maybe it’s condensation. We’ll sort it.

If you just wing each interview, the direction, tone and outcome of each conversation can vary wildly, making it more difficult to compare candidates to each other. The outcome of this can be that, despite spending all that time interviewing people, to a certain extent, you’re still none the wiser.

Then, the chances are, when it comes to deciding who to hire, you’re going to go with your gut, as you won’t reliably be able to compare one answer to another because you didn’t ask each candidate a few standard questions you can compare them by.

So, a little planning can go a long way towards helping you make an informed and considered choice of who to hire, as opposed to just sitting down with each individuals, having a completely random chat, and then hoping you get it right.

Mistake 2

- Overvaluing experience

It is risky to bet too heavily on how much experience a person has, when there are so many factors that determine whether someone will be successful in the role and a good fit for your organisation.

An applicant’s skills, knowledge, aptitude and personality all factor into the equation.

Because experience is a tangible and measurable component, it is very easy to overvalue it above less easily measurable factors such as intelligence, drive, and other components of raw talent.

Experience accumulates with time in the role and skills can be learned and acquired.

Hiring new employees is not an easy process.

You’ve got to wade through a mountain of applications, weed out the few you’re interested in and then interview all the candidates – all while still running your company.

But if you want your company to grow, you need to hire the right people.

You need people that are not only right for the now but can also help you move the business towards bigger and better things in the future.

This is especially so for smaller businesses and startups because they have fewer employees and a limited income with which to work.

Your next great employee might be someone with limited experience, but who has fantastic aptitude and flexibility.

Placing too much stock on a heavy list of qualifications in your job description, or only considering applicants with x amount of experience and not considering other factors, means you might be turning a blindeye to someone better suited to the role and your company’s culture.

However, this is a double-edged sword and there is a flip side.

If you’re looking to hire someone without any experience in the hope of finding someone cheaper – you might be buying into a false economy.

Ignoring a candidate with what you consider to be necessary experience in the hope of saving a few thousand dollars a year by hiring an unproven person, might not actually save you anything, due to the amount of on-the-job training and potentially decreased productivity the less experienced employee will deliver.

So, as with all aspects of running your business, you need to find a balance.

For these companies every single dollar they spend on finding and hiring an employee can affect their longer term success, meaning it’s vital that they avoid making major mistakes while hiring.

But it definitely pays to consider more than just the experience a candidate comes with.

You want someone with the potential to grow into the perfect for your company.

But the trouble is that running a small business is hard work and there often simply isn’t the time to commit to a thorough hiring process; and as result, corners get cut.

Mistake 3

The good news is that your competitors are probably making these mistakes whilst hiring as well. This means there’s an opportunity for you to seize; to waste less time and money by hiring right so you can get back to running your company.

This is a common mistake many small business owners make.

Mistake 1

- Not having an interview plan

The single biggest hiring mistake small business owners make is winging it or not having an interview plan. At best they’ll have a few questions written down on a piece of paper, but little else.

You need to treat an interview like a deductive science. You’ve sorted through all the resumes and selected the best individuals to be interviewed – but now you need a better way of evaluating their suitability for the role than just having a chat and going with your gut.

You achieve this by having an interview plan.

- Assuming the hiring process ends once they’re hired

An employee’s productivity is comprised of 50 percent ability [the reasons you hired them], and 50 percent of what happens once they’re in the workplace.

So conducting a good interview, offering that promising person the job and them saying ‘yes’ is only half the task.

Employees need to be properly induced and introduced to your company, well trained and supported.

It doesn’t matter how impressed you are with someone’s potential – poor training, insufficient access to resources, and little feedback will add up to poor job satisfaction and this will impact their performance.

So recruitment doesn’t stop at the ‘welcome aboard’ handshake – you need to make sure they are introduced, trained and supported every step of the way.

First – decide what questions are the most important, and ask them to each candidate.

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This doesn’t have to be an iron-clad, exactly repeatable process – but it does need to have some consistency to it so you can accurately assess candidates’ answers in relation to each other.

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Second – know what answers you’re looking for. Then you can assess each answer objectively and place candidates in pecking order.

CY PAC

If you would like to talk to one of our consultants about your recruitment needs, please contact us on

0800 88 00 18 | info@nzrecruit.co.nz

www.nzrecruit.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 73

Finishing Solutions

Bespoke finishing It’s the finer details that complete the look and functionality of a space and Handrail Fittings is proud to supply all of New Zealand with bespoke brackets and a wide variety of handrail and foot rail fittings for the industrial, residential, commercial, hospitality, art and entertainment industries.

One hundred percent locally owned, Handrail Fittings was established by husband and wife duo Rob and Sue Best on the back of decades of experience in the handrail and foot rail industry, and the want for a consistent supply of the best products at the best prices available.

Rob’s knowledge in design and manufacture, which extends back to 1989, has seen the company become a market leader known for providing the most efficient delivery of consistently high quality, easy to install and easy to use handrail and foot rail fittings and accessories.

As suppliers to hundreds of clients throughout New Zealand they also boast the biggest product range in New Zealand, keeping product stocked in large quantities so their customers don’t have to.

Customer service is a leading priority and this is not only reinforced by the quality and delivery of product but also by after sales support and a complete knowledge of their products.

Rob’s experience is a huge advantage to their customers, if a client, architect, builder etc isn’t quite sure how to best approach a job, or if the product they require doesn’t exist, Rob can often advise customers of potential solutions. It’s all about customer service.

“We pride ourselves on having a great quality of product, the most efficient delivery, being simple and easy to deal with, and accountable and hard working to keep our customers satisfied,” Sue says.

The entire product range can be viewed online at: www.handrailfittings.co.nz.

Here lies a huge competitive advantage, they can generally provide next-day delivery where it could take other suppliers weeks to deliver the same amount of product.

The vast product range particularly includes handrail brackets, from cost-effective for bulk use in schools, offices, apartment blocks and the like, to bespoke designs for architectural builds, finished in brass, satin, mirror and/or galvanized steel, rated up to commercial grade SAE 304 and marine grade SAE 316L.

Among their most popular products are their knock-in end caps, so that instead of having to cut and weld steel onto the end of tubes you can simply insert an end cap, for an equally nice look without the hassle.

All products are designed and manufactured specifically for the New Zealand market.

Throughout every stage, Rob and Sue work closely with their off-shore manufacturers of seven years to ensure the quality is consistent and are continually impressed with the results in comparison with other manufacturers.

Handrail Fittings Ltd

PO Box 382 Feilding Manawatu (06) 328 9619 info@handrailfittings.co.nz www.handrailfittings.co.nz

Handrail Fittings ● Handrail Brackets ● Mild Steel ● Foot Rails ● End Caps ● Brass Fittings ● Joiner Sleeves ● Stanchions ● Accessories

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Transport

Revving up transport emission reductions The Government is calling for feedback on a range of potential policies to eliminate emissions in the transport sector.

Transport Minister Michael Wood has released ‘Hīkina te Kohupara – Kia mauri ora ai te iwi - Transport Emissions: Pathways to Net Zero by 2050’, a Ministry of Transport report outlining potential policies and pathways to a net zero emission transport sector.

“Reducing emissions across the transport sector is an enormous undertaking, but it is achievable and will help support our economic recovery,” Michael says.

“The transport sector currently produces 47 per cent of New Zealand’s CO2 emissions and between 1990 and 2018, domestic transport emissions increased by 90 percent.

“We’ve already taken steps to reduce emissions but Hīkina te Kohupara shows we have to go much further.

“The pathways laid out in the report show it’s possible to meet our emission reduction targets, but big changes will be needed in

the coming decades. There will be some hard choices to make, but it’s obvious we can’t continue with business as usual.”

Michael says reaching New Zealand’s goal of net zero carbon by 2050 would unclog our cities, clean up our air, support the creation of new businesses in low carbon industries, and create sustainable jobs across the country.

“While the pathways outlined in Hīkina te Kohupara are not Government policy, we want to have a national conversation about the changes we all need to make.

“We want to hear from the public over the coming weeks, and we will then consider the suggestions in Hīkina te Kohupara. Our Emissions Reduction Plan will be released by the end of the year.”

Minister of Climate Change, James Shaw welcomed the release of Hīkina te Kohupara and says it was a great opportunity to people to share their vision for the future of low carbon transport in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“The window of opportunity to address the climate crisis is closing fast, so I am pleased to see the Minister of Transport starting work early on the sorts of policies that could be included in our Government’s forthcoming Emissions Reduction Plan.

Reducing emissions across the transport sector is an enormous undertaking, but it is achievable and will help support our economic recovery “Whether it’s travelling to and from work, or visiting friends and family at the weekend, I think most people want to be to make these trips while also helping the planet.

“When it comes to addressing the climate crisis, cutting emissions from transport will be vital. But if we make smart decisions now then we can create a low carbon future for transport and put our communities on the

path to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” James Shaw said.

Consultation is open for six weeks until 25 June 2021.

More information can be found at: www.transport.govt.nz/area-of-interest/ environment-and-climate-change/ climate-change.

Auckland-Wide Transport Specialists Swanson Transport has been delivering freight for over 75 years.

Continuous innovation and transformation have been the theme throughout their history from a single truck beginnings to the present day of being a leading specialist transport provider in the Auckland region.

From general freight deliveries in curtain-sider trucks with their distinctive orange curtains, to hiab truck deliveries to residential building and construction sites, Swanson Transport has a wide range of equipment to service their customers.

Their main specialist service is their long reach hiab units which over the years have lifted into place various items from construction materials to small buildings and even a helicopter. The pride of the fleet is STL200, a Scania mounted

with the largest Palfinger crane manufactured.

This unit has the advantages of knuckleboom operation with a flyjib and winch to lift into those hard to reach places. With the multifunction adaptor attached it extends the total reach to over 50 metres. For customers needing to do remedial work at significant heights, a workman basket which fully complies as an elevated work platform attaches to the fly-jib which goes up or out over 45 metres.

Swanson Transport’s drivers and operators are very much the face of the company with a strong focus on providing a consistent and reliable service with health and safety always being top of mind. Swanson Transport comply with an extensive range of health and safety systems and processes that are required by the major New Zealand Building Supplies, Construction and Utilities companies – meaning that they are ready and able to carry work that comes their way.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 75

Crane Association of New Zealand

Superior standard for 2021 Crane Awards Two Project of the Year finalists were told their entries were so outstanding, that they could have competed on the world stage, at this year’s Crane Association of New Zealand awards.

Celebrated just recently in July, judges Todd Ross Todd Ltd director, Robert Carden, and Juno Civil Limited founder, Jim Juno, were so impressed by both submissions, that they struggled to choose who should come out on top.

While there was a lot of thought and planning for both projects, HEB Construction, Downer, Auckland Cranes and Smith Crane & Construction took out the award.

Crane Association of New Zealand executive officer Sarah Toase said the added complexity of the barge involvement and managing the tides is what tipped it in favour of the eventual winners.

The winning entry was a $350 million dollar investment to revitalise the waterfront

and a key project in Auckland Transport’s Downtown Infrastructure Development Programme.

As stated in the project entry, The Ferry Basin Redevelopment scope included the installation of six new ferry berths, three gangways and three roof canopies.

The four companies joined forces to install the new roof canopies, which involved a complex lift, with the transport and placement of nine individual canopy sections from Hobsonville, to the constrained Queens Wharf site.

Each section was transported to the Hobsonville Point barge basin via platform trailer, one kilometre from the fabrication site, where a GMK7450 mobile crane loaded the section onto a waiting transport barge.

The transport barge was then towed down the Waitematā Harbour to Queens Wharf on the Auckland waterfront.

A LR1280 crawler on a jack up barge located adjacent to the new Queens Wharf berths received the transport barge on its seaward side. The LR1280 then picked up the roof section and slewed through 180 degrees.

While an impressive project, the team collaboratively faced some big challenges.

The operational positions of the two wharfbased cranes were extremely restricted due to the confined site.

The cranes were limited to certain positions where the curvature of The Cloud building would allow the tail swing of the crane to fit without contact during slewing, the second winch needed to be removed and the Liebherr Vario Ballast system was used to gain critical clear distance.

The Queens Wharf structure is also over 100 years old and in a severely deteriorated state which reduced the allowable ground

pressure and lifting capacity of the wharfbased cranes.

To maximise the allowable loading, mobile cranes were also positioned over bridging beams to share outrigger load between wharf piles.

This increased allowable capacity, but capacity was still restricted to a point where it was not possible to conduct this operation as a single lift with a wharf-based crane only.

The runners up for Project of the Year and only just missing out on the top award were Fletcher Construction for their Hobson Street Airbridge installation.

As stated in the project entry, The Hobson Street Airbridge preparation for the installation of the Airbridge began with the construction of the Horizon Hotel airbridge support frame as part of the hotel build in 2018.

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In January 2019 at the SKYCITY Hotel end of the Bridge pile caps around the columns that would eventually support the bridge were enlarged and strengthened at the underground P6 parking level.

It was decided that the best location, if the floor could take the load and if disruption to the site could be kept a minimum, was Level three of the Convention Centre.

Design checks on the capacity of the slab to take the completed Airbridge plus trailer weights were carried out by Blueprint Consulting Engineers and peer reviewed

by Beca.

Truck access from Hobson Street to Level Three was a feature of the finished building so work on the entry was accelerated. A position on the floor for the Airbridge to be stored was chosen based on capacity of the slab and ease of access in and out of the building.

The other award winners were: • Trainee of the Year: Winner: Brent Ericksen • Trainer of the Year: Stuart Hindley, Major Oak Safety Training • Training Company of the Year: Major Oak Safety Training

Column connections were strengthened with steel collars at road level and a portal frame was installed at an existing viewing deck to act as the main bridge support.

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There was no benefit to installing the bare frame over Hobson Street and attempting to fit out the bridge in place.

Once the Airbridge arrived in Auckland the outside envelope had to be fitted. The work was always intended to be done off site and the Airbridge driven to the lift point, but no suitable locations could be found.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 77

Roofing Association of New Zealand

A higher standard of roofing The Roofing Association of New Zealand is bringing a new level of professionalism to the roofing game Roofing is a rapidly growing industry and the Roofing Association of New Zealand is racing along with it.

Since its inception in 1994, it’s been working to create future pathways for the industry.

The annual RANZ conference took place last month, drawing more than 350 people – its second highest attendance on record.

With a huge range of speakers from the Minister for Building, Construction and (Public) Housing, Poto Williams to Lance Burdett and Sir Ian Taylor, a large range of issues within the industry were discussed.

With the roofing industry incredibly busy and contractors under the pump, presenters spoke about mental health, managing worker shortages and ways of keeping safe on building sites.

Roofing Association of New Zealand CEO, Graham Moor says the main point of the conference was to network and recognise the challenges they face.

Graham says the conference was a roaring success. It was a chance to connect and talk among one another in ways members usually can’t.

“The whole room was full... people were just talking roofing into the evening.”

They increased efficiency around asking questions and interacting with speakers with an app where people could type out their questions.

People could then read those questions and vote up the questions they wanted answered most. Graham says it really opened up the floor more than handing around a microphone.

There were groups about centering yourself, and Graham says at one point he walked into the main room to find dead silence as everyone went through a guided breathing exercise. It was all about trying to find ways to relieve the pressure of an ever-growing industry.

Worker shortages are something they’re continuing to discuss, Graham says.

Immigration is something being touted as a cure-all for the issue. but Graham says it’s only part of the solution.

Graham explains that you need to train your way out of the problem. Further training of current workers and enabling them to complete their work to a higher standard is a large part of this.

RANZ is working to support its roofing business members to nurture highly skilled roofing teams and enhance their business professionalism, to be held in high regard and be trusted in the industry.

It’s not just about bringing in new people, it’s about retaining the ones that are already there and making sure they’re equipped to manage the work.

A huge problem facing the roofing industry that RANZ is working to reduce is licensing issues.

“There’s way too many cowboys in the construction industry,” says Graham.

Currently, to roof a new building, you need to be a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) or hire one. However, you don’t need to be qualified in this way to re-roof a home.

Even with a licence, Graham says the bar is too low. He says you don’t need a qualification of any kind and there’s just not enough rigour in the industry.

He compares it to plumbing where a plumber depends on their licence. A roofer doesn’t necessarily need to, Graham says.

He’s been on Fair Go about the issue twice, and presented it to the government multiple times, however the government has yet to take action on this.

Graham says it’s not just the customers who are impacted by these rogue roofers.

While customers are often left to pick up the pieces of a bad job and their wallets are incredibly unhappy, it also has a negative impact on the “good” roofers of the industry. Not to mention, many accredited RANZ member roofers spend their time cleaning up after these “cowboy roofers”.

Graham says RANZ members have the expectation on them that they know what they’re doing and own up to things that aren’t right, compared to the licenced building practitioner scheme, which is known to not be holding practitioners to account in the same respect.

A large part of what RANZ does is provide vital information to companies and contractors to better prepare them for working in the construction sector.

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From online resources that members can access to printed books, RANZ are working to make that information readily available.

Graham says this information and teaching will bring people into the industry and retain them.

They’re not just “teaching roofing” either.

Graham explains they’re looking at things like budgeting and contracts as well so there are excellent “all rounders” in the industry.

Graham says teaching people how to navigate the contracts they’re in or about to sign is very important.

Fixed contracts have been causing grief in the industry and can be notoriously tricky to understand. RANZ wants to provide the best advice to members so they can make their contracts work for them, rather than against them.

Graham says the association is engaged in the review with vocational education.

The government is currently working on making changes to learning and education in the industry. However, the government is keeping their cards close to their chest.

Graham says they haven’t seen much around how this is going to work or what kind of difference it will make directly for the industry, but he just wants to see good learner outcomes.

He wants to see a range of both soft and hard skills being taught so that students come out with a better knowledge of the industry and what’s required of them.

RANZ is working to bring a higher level of professionalism to the industry as well as education.

Roofing Association of New Zealand 396 Rosedale Road Rosedale Auckland (09) 415 0278 info@ranz.co.nz www.ranz.co.nz

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Issue #130 - B&C | 79

Roofing Association of New Zealand

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Paton Roofing Services

Investing in people and equipment Paton Roofing Services has been run by the Gilmore family since 1978, when Phil Gilmore took over – what was then – Good Brothers Construction.

Today it’s his son Grant Gilmore who holds the reins as general manager. Although Phil, who turned 80 this year, still keeps a hand in.

Paton Roofing Services general manager, Grant Gilmore says, “He’s working for me now!”

Paton Roofing Services are specialists in commercial roofing, which includes all types of commercial, industrial and construction projects.

The roofing business has become more technical, with an increasing range of materials and a variety of different flashings now being used. Grant says their years of experience and working with various

materials means they have the know-how to take the right approach with each project.

This is incredibly important in not only getting the job right but it could save clients thousands of dollars and avoid a lot of stress.

“We recently fixed a roof that had been done using the wrong profile. It was only a year old and was leaking. We fixed it for a quarter of what it would have cost to replace.”

Those four decades in the commercial roofing industry also means that Paton Roofing Services have built up their assets and equipment, making them highly competitive.

An EWP (Elevated Work Platform) is a cornerstone piece of equipment for a roofer. Grant says owning one gives you an immediate competitive advantage and works out costing a quarter of what it would cost to rent over time. This is a cost that isn’t then passed on to the client.

“And we’re always investing back into the business,” Grant says. “Buying more safety and access equipment. It definitely makes you more competitive.”

Investing in staff is another area that’s important to the company, which is made up of new and old blood. Their teams are carefully chosen to ensure qualified staff, senior tradesmen and trainees are appropriately mixed.

What Paton Roofing can offer: • Years of experience in the commercial/ industrial roofing industry • Sound advice on products available • Technical and practical advice • Competitive pricing • Job specific methodology • Job specific re-roof plan • Health & safety peace of mind • Five-year workmanship warranty.

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“We put our apprentices through their NZQA qualifications and you actually find, they really want to learn on the job from their older colleagues.”

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This foresight in investing in people and equipment is clearly paying off for Paton’s and their clients, with the company still embracing the values that Phil Gilmore put in place over 40 years ago.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 81

Harkin Roofing

A history of Harkin Roofing For 40 years, Harkin Roofing has been putting quality roofs on commercial buildings.

Started in 1979, the company began with a car, a ladder and an opportunity.

Back in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, roofing wasn’t really a trade on its own. The job was usually done by plumbers.

Rex Harkin was a sheetmetal worker and during this time, met businessman Bob Eaton and his daughter, Sue. Bob told Rex that if he wanted to be wealthy, he needed to find something that’d make a profit.

Rex saw a gap in the construction industry and despite negative feedback from Bob, pursued roofing. For a few years, Rex just found work where he could and things were going okay. He trundled around in his car with his ladder to find as much work as he could.

He and his new partner Sue vanished overseas for a while, to live and work and have adventures. Once they got back, Rex got things off the ground and the company was formed.

For a while, Rex would work long hours during the day and then come home to do all the paperwork that came with a company.

In the early 80’s, Rex told Sue that teaching (Sue’s profession) was a bit of a waste of time and wouldn’t make them any money.

He suggested they become a real team and work the company together. So, she did.

Once Sue joined Rex, the business really got off the ground and they became quite the dynamic duo.

Sue proceeded to become very successful in her own right and helped form the Roofing Association of New Zealandto become its first president.

Harkin Roofing director Deborah Harkin says the roofing industry wouldn’t be where it is today without Sue, her mother.

Now, sibling duo Brad and Deborah Harkin run the show and have done so since 2015.

Brad is the first port of call when it comes to large construction projects, having worked his way up from various roofing projects, to a foreman, then to a project manager and now a director.

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Deborah handles pricing, health and safety practices and is also a director. Deborah says her dad was always trying to win the bigger job - something the company does regularly these days.

Back in the early days, Deborah says Rex fought for Harkin Roofing to win the Te Puke packhouse job. Despite it being well outside of his current scope, he won the job and figured out a way to do it.

The company recently held a 40th anniversary celebration and a retirement party for Rex. Deborah says the business has continued to flourish, following all those years of success.

Each year they’ve had a big anchor project and have been able to continue growing thanks to a stable workload. Deborah says there’s plenty of work to go around for all trades.

For example, they worked on shed 16 of Port Tauranga, then moved to a massive job with APL in Cambridge.

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This was the largest Kingspan panel job in Australasia where Harkin Roofing installed 50,000 square metres of product.

They’ve also done work for Comvita, providing 3,500 square metres of product for the purpose-built warehouse in Paengaroa.

They’re not limited to massive commercial buildings either and have worked on a reroofing project for a historic village.

is a new plasterboard facility for Gibs Winstone Wallboards.

It’s relocating from Auckland to Tauranga.

This move is driven by issues around expansion in the current location so moving to Tauranga will allow the company to grow.

The plan is to more than double the size of the old facility which will help meet the growing demands for Gib plasterboard.

It also looks set to focus on sustainability with the focus on reducing carbon emissions and increasing recycling capabilities.

Deborah says it’s a very high-profile project and they’re excited to be part of it. According to Gib, it’s scheduled to open for business in 2023.

Despite this success, Deborah says it’s a tricky industry.

“We might put out 20 major tenders a month and you don’t know how many you’ll win,” she explains.

However, as the construction industry is currently in a boom, there is plenty of work to go around.

They have currently won their fair share so they just have to figure out a way to make it work in the same way Rex Harkin made the Te Puke packhouse job work.

Harkin Roofing looks set to keep getting given the big jobs. “We’re booked up for the year,” Deborah says.

It’s not a problem unique to roofing either – Deborah says most trades are struggling to get staff at the moment. Deborah says people often aren’t even showing up for interviews let alone getting to the point of hiring.

Deborah says Harkin Roofing is taking on a massive job involving Fletcher Building.

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Deborah says she often sets up 20 or so interviews at a time and only three or four will actually follow through.

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Harkin Roofing

With the construction industry so busy and Harkin Roofing having their fair share of work, we look forward to the year ahead.

While they can increase costs of materials to reflect the global market, Deborah says they can’t really raise their rates.

They’ve tried it in the past and it hasn’t really worked. Work stops coming in when clients are quoted a higher price for work. While wages for staff and work in general keep increasing, the price clients are willing to pay for skilled work isn’t.

Some, she says, say they’ve “just woken up” or have “forgotten” and others don’t show up at all. “It’s a funny problem and it’s quite hard at the moment...there’s not really an answer for it either.”

Deborah says there’s so many jobs in construction out there - you just have to be willing to work. She says labouring work is physical and you need to be prepared for that. You’re outside and it’s wet and it’s cold and you’re expected to turn up on time every day.

Although Harkin Roofing is struggling to find labourers at the moment, they managed to retain all their staff during Covid.

They experienced a slight dip post lock down but were soon back on their feet.

Deborah says they had to carry a few of their staff for a little while but not for long.

They managed to pay all of their staff, in full, during lockdown.

But Deborah says they’re very lucky compared to other industries. “It’s a great time to be in construction – we’re in a boom.”

Harkin Roofing has recently moved into a new premise to accommodate their constant growth and success.

They imported some state-of-the-art new machinery for the flashing department and where they used to fold iron flashings, they now sport a slitter, folder and guillotine.

Looking ahead, Deborah says they do one or two jobs out of town each year but generally stay in the Bay of Plenty region.

“With the construction industry so busy and Harkin Roofing having their fair share of work, we look forward to the year ahead.”

However, with Covid continuing to impact the rest of the world, the costs of running a business keep rising. “We need to keep paying staff well and offering good benefits,” Deborah says.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 83

Elevating Work Platforms

Best practice guidelines for mobile elevating work platforms Mobile Elevating Work Platforms are a great device to access areas in a work place that are of height or inaccessible.

However, if the process isn’t planned out properly, it can be very dangerous.

So, what are some of the hazards and what should the worker do if they come across a hazard?

Assess the hazard Decide if the identified hazards are significant.

How likely is it that someone could be harmed and, if they are harmed, how seriously could they be hurt?

If someone could be seriously harmed, then it’s a significant hazard. All significant hazards need to be controlled to stop anyone being seriously hurt. While significant hazards are a top priority, all hazards should have effective controls.

Hazard controls First try and eliminate the hazard but if that’s not possible, then isolate it, and as a last resort try to reduce the harm that could be caused by a hazard, by minimising it.

Confined overhead working Operators should > Be briefed on the risks of working in and around structures where they could be trapped or pinned between the platform and the structure, be aware of their working environment at all times, wear hardhats with a chin strap.

Ground conditions Use the MEWP on firm and level ground where possible.

Make sure the MEWP is rated for any slopes it may face. Problems like trenches, manholes and soft ground conditions, – can cause a MEWP to overturn.

Do not use a MEWP on a slope beyond the limits of the inclinometer or manufacturer’s specifications.

A combination of controls may need to be used. Develop ways to control the hazards that use ‘group controls’ (such as edge protection) that protect more than one worker from a hazard.

Make sure any temporary covers used to block holes are strong enough to take the whole weight of the MEWP, including the maximum rated capacity – that is the weight of the MEWP fully loaded with people, tools and equipment.

Group controls are better than ‘individual controls’, which protect only one person (such as a fall restraint).

Be careful when reaching out from the platform, going too far can affect stability, especially when working on slopes.

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Elevating Work Platforms Bad weather and storms can also damage a MEWP. After severe weather, inspect the MEWP before using it again.

Have a rescue plan in place and take into account the extra hazards working near water can create.

Do not park or store the MEWP with the platform elevated.

Nearby hazards

Handling materials If the MEWP is being used to install materials, check the weight, dimensions and distribution of the materials so it does not exceed the rated capacity of the MEWP. • Do not use handrails to support loads.

• Make sure workers can handle any materials safely.

Use extra lifting equipment to move materials to the work position, if needed.

Set the outriggers correctly before using the MEWP. Use the manufacturer’s instructions to set the outriggers before raising the platform.

Use spreader plates when needed because of the ground conditions. They should be made of a material that gives good grip to both the spreader foot and ground.

When setting up a MEWP on-ramps using outriggers, extreme caution is required to prevent slipping down the ramp. Do not set up the outriggers’ footplates on a slope.

Preventing falls Make sure the work platform has effective guard rails and toe boards, if it is not fully enclosed.

Use an appropriate harness system if someone could fall from the MEWP. Secure the harness to a certified anchor point within the MEWP.

Travelling between work areas The operator must face the direction the MEWP is travelling in.

• Lower the MEWP when travelling between work areas.

• Lower any boom and point it in line with the direction of travel.

Working near others

Working near or over water

Outriggers

Check the area for nearby hazards, such as overhead power lines, traffic or dangerous machinery.

When working over or near water, assess the hazards and risks to decide what personal protective equipment should be worn and what control measures should be in place.

Personal protective equipment includes life jackets and harness systems.

Use barriers to keep pedestrians and traffic separated from where MEWPs are working.

Information sourced from: www.worksafe. govt.nz/topic-and-industry/working-atheight/mobile-elevating-work-platforms/ mobile-elevating-work-platforms.

Falling objects Isolate the area around the MEWP so that falling tools or objects do not strike people below.

Anyone working nearby should wear a hard hat.

Weather Poor weather can make affect a platform’s stability and make it unsafe to use.

Only use a MEWP within the manufacturer’s specified wind rating. The wind rating should be on the manufacturer’s serial plate.

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P 0800 72 33 848 E info@verticalhorizonz.co.nz W www.verticalhorizonz.co.nz

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Issue #130 - B&C | 85

Elevating Work Platforms

Safety while working at height Under the Primary Duty of Care in the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, preventing falls from height is a requirement for all PCBU’s and they must ensure that work at height is actively managed so that people are not harmed.

A PCBU who manages or controls a workplace must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the workplace, the means of entering and exiting the workplace, and anything arising from the workplace are without risks to the health and safety of any person.

The key principles for managing risks on the worksite are: (a) To eliminate risks to health and safety, so far as is reasonably practicable; and (b) If it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate risks to health and safety, to minimise those risks so far as is reasonably practicable.

Investigations by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment into falls while working at height show that more than 50 percent of falls are from less than three metres and approximately 70 percent of falls are from ladders and roofs.

Factors contributing to injuries sustained from A risk assessment shall be carried out for all working at height include: work at height. It is essential that the hazards are identified before the work starts and • Lack of or inadequate planning and hazard that the necessary equipment, appropriate assessment precautions and systems of work are • Inadequate supervision provided and implemented.

• Insufficient training for the task being If there is a potential for a person at work carried out to fall from any height, all steps so far as • Incorrect protection or equipment choices are reasonably practicable must be taken to • Incorrect use or set-up of equipment prevent harm from occurring. including personal protective equipment Falls from height are most often caused by • Unwillingness to change the way a task is a failure to plan and organise work properly carried out when a safer alternative so we should always start by planning a safe is identified work method before starting work.

• Suitable equipment being unavailable.

The elimination of potential for falls from More injuries happen on residential building height should be considered early in sites than any other workplace in the the project development. Consider construction sector. elimination through: Where there is potential for a fall from height • Safer design (locating plant at ground then we should ask: level; installing walkways with handrails; Can we eliminate the risk of working at height? (This may be engineered into the job design at the planning stage, i.e. doing more of the work at ground level.)

Minimisation:

permanent guardrails or other forms of edge protection) • Using different work methods (prefabricating wall frames horizontally before standing them up; using precast tilt-up concrete construction instead of concrete walls constructed in situ; prefabricating structures on the ground or before installation and lifting them into position; pre-painting fixtures/roofs before installation)

If elimination is not practicable then steps should be taken to minimise the hazard so far as is reasonably practicable. This can be achieved using safe working platforms, guardrail systems, edge protection, scaffolding, elevated work platforms, mobile • Using specific tools and equipment (using scaffolds, barriers to restrict access, safety long-handled tools eliminating the need to harnesses, industrial rope access systems, soft landing systems etc. work from a ladder).

Where elimination is not possible then we need to look at minimising the risk by use of one or more of the following methods: Using safe working platforms, • Guardrail systems, • Edge protection, • Scaffolding, • Elevated work platforms, • Mobile scaffolds, • Barriers to restrict access, • Safety harnesses, • Industrial rope access systems, • Soft landing systems etc.

When we are making the decision about which method fall protection should be used in any given situation, we need to consider the duration and frequency of use that is to be undertaken.

Long duration, higher frequency work justifies a higher standard of fall protection, e.g. a tower scaffold rather than a ladder.

However, a ladder may be justified for short duration low-risk repetitive work.

We also need to take into account the need for rescue in the case of a fall. If rescue from a deployed fall arrest system is going to be difficult then we must choose another type of fall protection to use e.g. an Elevating Work Platform.

Article provided by the NZ Safety Council.

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86 | B&C - Issue #130

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Hysp e South cs Island Only

Supporting the Access Equipment and EWP industry for over 45 years.

With more than 50 years’ experience in the construction sector we are well aware of the needs of the industry. This means we realise how important the safety of your best asset – your staff – is to you and your company’s future.

So, as a national company servicing New Zealanders in the construction industry, we are committed to the safety of your staff.

“

“

Ask your builder if they are using Securescaffold – it will save you money.

And when you deal with us you’re dealing with the owner, which means you receive a superior and speedy service – every time.

Our extensive construction knowledge ensures we understand local compliance issues and we realise how critical your deadlines are and we guarantee to be on time – check out our Secureguarantee.

Secureguarantee • We guarantee to beat any written quote by 10% • We guarantee to return all quotes within 48 hours otherwise you will receive the first week rental FREE of charge!

Securescaffold covers all NEW WorkSafe working height requirements providing fall protection for builders, painters, home handyman and roofers on new and existing home constructions.

www.securescaffold.co.nz |

0800 66 00 22

Head Office - 38 Lowe Street, Addington, Christchurch 8011 Christchurch Yard - 72 Shortland Street, Wainoni, Christchurch 8061

* Terms and conditions apply to the Secureguarantee

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JAMIE@CBCIVIL.CO.NZ | 021 0290 1724

www.cbcivil.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 87

Height Safety

Scaffolding solutions to suit anyone Founded in 2010, Summit Scaffolding has rapidly expanded to service the Auckland, Hamilton and Waikato regions, in large part due to its well-deserved reputation of a comprehensive response to any job, no matter how big or small.

Summit covers all aspects of scaffolding – from civil and commercial to industrial and residential – but is well-known for its extensive work in the commercial sector, as well as its sizeable residential division.

Summit Scaffolding company directors, John Scott and Bruce Pickerill say, “Our key business achievement is keeping all of our clients happy.

“That’s no matter what size they are – the biggest construction company in the country or Mr and Mrs Smith doing up their house in the suburbs. To us, what matters is their satisfaction.

“Our target customer base is everyone who requires safe scaffolding. We don’t cherry pick. Anybody that requires a safe scaffold solution is our target customer base.”

Summit Scaffolding uses a hands-on approach to get a feel for your project so the team can easily customise and accommodate you for whatever your project needs.

• Commercial scaffolding • Industrial scaffolding • Residential scaffolding

come from a scaffolding background.

Our managers have worked all over the world, and our basic knowledge would be unsurpassed in New Zealand,” John says.

The management of Summit Scaffolding has an average of 28 years’ experience. John started off in the scaffolding industry at 16, studying civil engineering at college in the United Kingdom.

Bruce started his scaffolding career in Sydney before moving back to New Zealand, taking up management and franchisee roles with Pacific Scaffolding in Auckland. They both moved onto Summit Scaffolding in 2010, organising and pushing Summit Scaffolding where it is today.

On top of scaffolding services across all sectors, Summit Scaffolding also has equipment available for hire and for sale through Kwikserv, an internationally renowned supplier of top-quality scaffold.

It also provides propping and shore loading services.

This starts with visiting the site to assess your project, which then goes forward with plan A culture of safety and and design solutions, offering time frames and upward mobility costs that will get the job done correctly and One main reason for Summit Scaffolding’s safely. From there, the team gets to work. rise in the construction sphere is because it “We go over and above practice guidelines of has incorporated intensive and ongoing staff the industry. And also, all of our management training regimes to stay ahead of the times.

88 | B&C - Issue #130

Summit Scaffolding’s services include:

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

• Propping & shore loading • Equipment hire & sales. to a company culture of ongoing training, development and safety practices.

Summit Scaffolding company directors John Scott, left, and Bruce Pickerill, right.

Summit Scaffolding is a business taking the lead in this regard, going above and beyond standard certifications.

As the bare minimum, every single one of Summit’s installers holds an up-to-date Site Safe card. On top of that, all supervisors hold Site Safe Gold Cards – this, combined with other international qualifications and experience, ensures your site and workers are the safest they can possibly be.

Summit operates within the SARNZ (Scaffolding, Access and Rigging New Zealand) framework. It goes without saying the company adheres strictly to all good scaffolding practices, health & safety and employment regulations required by the Government.

A key to Summit maintaining, as the website puts it, a “professional, polite and loyal” workforce, is in no small part due

“We pride ourselves on building up a good skill base with a diverse group of employees.

Being able to employ people and give them the career path, give them something to aim for. That can all be achieved within Summit.”

While looking ahead towards the future, the answer was simple for John and Bruce – Summit Scaffolding would continue carrying on expansion and upholding the rigorous safety practices that made the company a frontrunner in the industry.

Summit Scaffolding

38 Birmingham Road East Tamaki Auckland 0508 SUMMIT info@scaffolding.org.nz www.summitscaffolding.co.nz

Safety Nets NZ

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

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

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

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

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

As an industry leader the company has been instrumental in developing and improving industry standards.

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

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

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

By using the systems developed by Safety Nets NZ, which have been independently

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Our nationwide network of local installers are dedicated to providing exceptional, customer focussed fall arrest solutions.

North Island 0800 NETSNZ (638 769) • South Island 0800 NETS4U (638 748) • WWW.SAFETYNETSNZ.CO.NZ

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 89

Height Safety

Maintaining safe scaffold practices Many risks associated with erecting a scaffold also apply to people using and working on it. Regular inspections of the scaffold are essential.

People using the completed scaffold should follow any special requirements outlined on the handover certificate or scaffold tag.

Pre-start checks and regular inspections Pre-start checks before a scaffold is first used for the day should identify any risks.

Pre-start checks on suspended scaffold must be done by a competent person and include a visual check and load test.

Details of the inspection must be recorded and signed by the person who carried out the inspection. They can just be a checklist of main findings and comments.

The inspection record or register must be kept on site, and for convenience can be included on or combined with the scaffolding tag.

Damaged or non-compliant scaffold If the scaffold cannot be repaired, it should have the stair or ladder access removed if possible, and/or tags attached to all access points (where the means of access cannot be removed) or on visible locations on the scaffold, stating the status of the scaffold.

The scaffold should be dismantled and disposed of.

Scaffolding that does not satisfactorily meet inspection requirements, or has been damaged, must be taken out of service immediately and may not be used until repairs have been done. A scaffolding tag should be hung on the scaffold at access points to advise other people of the status of the scaffold. Physical means to prevent access should also be considered.

Repairs must only be done by someone qualified to do so. Bent tube must not be straightened for reuse – it must be cut out and/or discarded.

Common risks when working on the scaffold include: There are many hazards to consider when working with scaffolding which is why safety should be a priority.

Repairs and alterations to the scaffold

Dismantling the scaffold

Repairs and alterations must only be done by a competent person. Before carrying out repairs or alterations isolate the area and ensure scaffolding tags on all access points display the correct status of the scaffold.

When carrying out alterations or repairs ensure: • the scaffold is stable • the status of the scaffold is displayed clearly

A risk assessment should be done before dismantling the scaffold. Risks when dismantling scaffolding may be different to risks when erecting scaffolding and should be considered separately.

Before dismantling the scaffold, exclusion zones should be set up with warning notices for other workers and public protection as required.

If the scaffold was used for removal of asbestos or work with hazardous material, obtain a clearance certificate from the user before dismantling.

• repairs comply with the manufacturer and/or supplier’s information

In addition, ensure the scaffold is free of loose material and debris. Inspect the scaffold for stability and plan for dismantling.

• the scaffold is not used until repairs have been completed and the scaffold has been inspected by a competent person.

Also, ensure all debris and rubbish has been removed from the scaffold before beginning to dismantle it.

• slips and trips on slippery surfaces, decking with trip hazards or obstructed working and access platforms • falling through gaps in poorly constructed platforms or through unprotected openings • using tools incorrectly, or defective or badly maintained tools • carrying or transporting tools and materials • hazardous substances such as asbestos and silica dust contaminating the scaffolding • falling from the scaffold (e.g., due to inadequate edge protection or climbing the outside of the scaffold) • failure of scaffold components • scaffold collapses (e.g., due to overloading, unauthorised alterations, incorrect construction or design).

Whatever the project, let us do the heavy lifting With over 20 years’ experience within the industry and an excellent safety record the specialist team at JD Rigging provides premium quality services and products ranging from: Crane and Hoist Hire and Sales General rigging and heavy lifting solutions including machinery shifts Servicing and Parts

Temporary Load Platforms Industry Related Training including inductions and refreshers Blokcam Safety Systems

So no matter how complex the lift, give the team a call today on 04 232 0930 or email admin@jdrigging.co.nz 90 | B&C - Issue #130

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Height Safety

When dismantling scaffolding:

Standard requirements for work on a scaffold include: • A safety helmet and appropriate safety footwear should be worn

• Dismantle by reversing the procedures required to erect the scaffold • Remove ties, braces, ledgers, transoms, planks and guardrails, followed by standards as joint positions are reached

• Clear access of at least 450 mm should be maintained on all access and working platforms

• If a building or structure is being demolished, dismantle the scaffold so that no more than four metres of scaffold is left above the last vertical tie point at any time Steel and aluminium scaffolding has taken its timber predecessor’s place in the industry.

• The scaffold should be kept clear of rubbish and excess material. Harmful substances such as silica dust should be prevented from collecting on the scaffold

• If a scaffold is being partially dismantled, make sure that the remaining section is stable • Lower materials down. Do not drop or throw them • Do not overload lower lifts with dismantled component (some components may be temporarily placed on lower lifts but must not be allowed to build up) • Install temporary raking tubes or ties to stabilise the scaffold if necessary • Remove all scaffolding materials. Do not leave components on roofs or projecting cornices, etc.

Content kindly provided by and under the copyright of WorkSafe New Zealand.

More information can be found at www.worksafe.govt.nz.

• Inspections of the scaffold and associated equipment should be carried out regularly to ensure the scaffold is safe to use. Records of inspections should be kept • Tools and equipment should be in good working condition • Repairs and alterations should be carried out by a competent person.

All scaffolds that have been repaired or altered should be inspected • Scaffolding that is no longer safe to use should be taken out of service immediately until repairs have been done. It should be tagged to warn people and access points should be closed off.

WorkSafe suggests that all recently repaired or altered scaffolds should be inspected.

With more than 50 years’ experience in the construction sector we are well aware of the needs of the industry. This means we realise how important the safety of your best asset – your staff – is to you and your company’s future.

So, as a national company servicing New Zealanders in the construction industry, we are committed to the safety of your staff.

“

“

Ask your builder if they are using Securescaffold – it will save you money.

And when you deal with us you’re dealing with the owner, which means you receive a superior and speedy service – every time.

Our extensive construction knowledge ensures we understand local compliance issues and we realise how critical your deadlines are and we guarantee to be on time – check out our Secureguarantee.

Secureguarantee • We guarantee to beat any written quote by 10% • We guarantee to return all quotes within 48 hours otherwise you will receive the first week rental FREE of charge!

Securescaffold covers all NEW WorkSafe working height requirements providing fall protection for builders, painters, home handyman and roofers on new and existing home constructions.

www.securescaffold.co.nz | * Terms and conditions apply to the Secureguarantee

0800 66 00 22

Head Office - 38 Lowe Street, Addington, Christchurch 8011 Christchurch Yard - 72 Shortland Street, Wainoni, Christchurch 8061

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 91

Apex Roof N Clad

Northland’s go-to roofing company The team at Apex Roof N Clad does everything it can to achieve the highest quality outcomes for all of its client’s roofing needs.

Established in 2011, Apex Roof N Clad is becoming Northland’s go-to roofing company. Many of the larger buildings in the area have been cladded by Apex, including the Dairy House, Whangarei ITM, and the new Northland Rugby facility.

Apex Roof N Clad managing director, Jake Tomason says, “The reason that we’re so successful is that we build a relationship with customers and then we maintain that by offering services, advice and workmanship that others can’t.”

Clients keep coming back to Apex because the company offers the whole package in regards to roofing services inclusive of pressed metal tiles, longrun roofing, wall cladding and continuous fascia and gutter services.

Since the effects of COVID-19, Apex Roof N Clad has seen a massive increase in business across the board of around 40 percent.

To deal with this increase, Apex has taken on an additional 15 plus staff, including a new chief operating officer, Tony Hunt, who has six plus years in the roofing sector with Steel and Tube Roofing. He oversees all operations, implementing more structure into the business.

“Due to such high demand on product, we are finding we need as much lead time in

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Lux pre-painted steel is a revolutionary product, characterised by its strength, versatility and durability combined with the visual appearance of other materials like wood and corten.

The team at Apex works alongside the majority of Whangarei’s group housing companies, architectural builders and commercial builders.

A huge amount of people are moving north and a record numbers of houses are being built. The flow-on effect of this also results in commercial and infrastructure developments.

With specialists in industrial and residential roofing, as well as cladding both commercial and domestic, it’s no surprise here that Apex Roof N Clad is Northland’s preferred roofing providers.

Through PVDF paint technology, the Lux range will withstand even the toughest of marine and industrial environments.

Custom stainless steel and aluminium flashings • Bimini frames Balustrades • Hand rails • Stainless steel bench tops Internal stainless steel gutters • Commercial rangehoods

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Apex Roof N Clad

order to book in jobs and materials ahead of time to ensure jobs run smoothly with minimal delays,” Jake says.

112 Port Road Port Whangarei (09) 438 2496 info@apexroof.co.nz www.apexroof.co.nz

Apex Roof N Clad is also pushing apprentices and staff through courses to upskill and help fulfil the shortage of roofers in Northland. The company is constantly advertising and searching for more roofers to come into the area.

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WE’VE GOT IT COVERED Steel & Tube offers a comprehensive range of roofing products, services and solutions for residential and commercial builds. From nuts and bolts through to roofing, reinforcing and floor decking, we’ve got it covered.

Talk to one of our specialists today to find out how we can help with your project.

A one-stop-shop for all your roofing and steel requirements.

0800 427 663 steelandtube.co.nz 92 | B&C - Issue #130

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Edge Pro Safety

Edge Pro Safety The team at Edge Pro Safety is all about installing New Zealand made edge-protection systems for residential and commercial projects.

At Edge Pro Safety, the company uses an innovative New Zealand Edge Protection System for the building and trades industries. The system is an alternative to traditional scaffolding to meet demand for versatile yet cost effective edge protection systems.

Edge Pro Safety owner and operator, Kevin Melville leads a highly trained and experienced team and endeavours to complete all jobs to a high standard of workmanship.

This edge protection system is the costeffective solution for: • Builders • Roofers • Solar installers • Painters.

With an emphasis on client satisfaction, Edge Pro ensures that your property is left looking great and your needs fully met.

Whether you’re contracted for a new build or a re-roofing job, the Edge Pro Safety installation undertaken by a professional is the way to go.

New Zealand made

The Edge Pro protections system is cost effective and installed quickly onsite and meets all NZ safety standards – it is also New Zealand made, cost effective way to provide edge and the most protection to the workplace.

This edge-protection system is quick to install and its non-intrusive construction enables work to maximise on the work-site.

The working at heights campaign initiated by the labour group (now Worksafe) made edge protection/scaffolding mandatory for all construction projects and work conducted at height. It soon became apparent that there was demand for a more a specialist guardrail system and that the construction industry was in need of a new way of thinking.

Traditional scaffolding was expensive to hire, deadlines for installation were often not met due to demand and the tube and clip arrangement built up from the ground was an impediment to progress around the building site on residential housing and often only required for a very short time on smaller projects.

Regulations at a glance

Services

Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016 Persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) have duties to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the workplace is without risks to the health and safety of any person.

This is where Edge Pro Safety comes in – the team at Edge Pro provides services to ensure that you and your workers are safe at work to go back home to your families.

With an emphasis on client satisfaction, Edge Pro ensures that your property is left looking great and your needs fully met

Edge Pro Safety’s services provide supply and installation of the edge protection systems. The company provides a number of different compliant edge protection systems – for single and multi-storey buildings.

These edge protection bracket systems are manufactured in New Zealand to AS/NZ standards.

• New build installation • Re-roofing • Commercial • Garage & sheds.

All of Edge Pro’s equipment follows the new NZ health & safety regulations under the Worksafe NZ criteria.

Contact Edge Pro Safety’s specialist team of installers today on 021 998 434.

We install NZ made edge-protection systems for single, multi-storey and commercial projects. All our equipment follows the new NZ health & Safety regulations.

New Build Installation • Re-roofing Commercial • Garage & Sheds

Phone Kevin on 021 998 434 or email: edgeprosafety@gmail.com

www.edgeprosafety.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 93

Canterbury Kerb & Concrete

Kerbing and Concrete Specialists Alan Judd is owner of Canterbury Kerb and Concrete Limited (CKC) – a thriving Christchurch company operating in commercial kerbing and concrete placement.

Kerbing is in Alan’s blood – as a secondgeneration business established by his father in 1965, with over 60 collective years of experience in the current team, all areas of concrete construction are covered.

Canterbury Kerb and Concrete primarily works for corporate clients on commercial sites, roading projects or subdivisions. Last year, CKC poured in excess of 20,000m2 of concrete and laid over 40,000m of kerbing.

Currently employing 18 staff, CKC has the capacity to lay more and operates over the entire South Island.

The company is well equipped, with specialised trucks, trailers, and machinery.

CKC operates 12 kerb machines, and 24 profiles to South Island council specifications ensuring they can work wherever required.

CKC have been well travelled in the past year. Subdivision projects include Meadowlands and Quarry Park in Halswell, Prestons Park in Mairehau, Ravenswood Stages II and III A, B, C, and D in Woodend, Faringdon in Rolleston, Verdeco and Flemington in Lincoln, Belfast and Springrove in Belfast, and Prévelles in Prebbleton.

Other commercial projects have had CKC undertake the Flaxton Road upgrade with the Rooney Group while the concrete and kerbing teams have been in action at the Ravenswood McDonalds restaurant, BP and New World.

The company has also been busy at the Northlink Retail Hub, Burlington Retirement Village, Christchurch Mens’ Prison, Waimak Business Park and Project Sukura – a large industrial cardboard facility in Hornby.

The large variety of concrete services provided, enables the company to offer complete concrete packages to all clients, and the company’s quality workmanship produces functional areas that are also extremely eye-catching.

The large variety of concrete services provided, enables the company to offer complete concrete packages to all clients, and the company’s quality workmanship produces functional areas that are also extremely eye-catching. The preparation and placement of all concrete finishes including infill using colour and stencilling is offered, as well as full excavation, paving, kerbing and hardscaping services. Rural work is also a speciality.

The continuing success of the company starts at the top with Alan as the Managing Director relying on a well-oiled and experienced team of Operations Managers and Team Leaders.

Canterbury Kerb and Concrete enjoys an 8-year relationship with Kainga Ora and currently holds two Canterbury maintenance contracts with a total of over 8,000 homes driveways and paths being maintained.

Kerbing Operations Manager Josh Johnstone, whose 7 years’ experience with the company and knowledge, maintains the kerbing team runs at full efficiency producing top quality work.

Concrete Operations Manager, Matt Cole, with 10 years’ experience and great civil practise knowledge, ensures multiple customers’ requests and contract deadlines are met with quality maintained.

Clients of CKC can’t stop singing their praises.

The testimonial page on the companies’ website, www.ckc.nz/testimonials is full of comments from happy customers.

The South Island’s Trusted Civil Concrete Contractors With over 60 years combined experience, CKC are your trusted partner for all your complete concrete construction packages.

Based in Christchurch, but covering the South Island, no job is too big, or too complicated for our quality teams.

MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS

SUBDIVISIONS

COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

• All conrete types

• Paving

• Driveways - Patios - Paths

• Kerbing

• Rural Driveways

• Full Excavation Services

Phone: 0800 024 220 | Web: ckc.nz | Email: info@ckc.nz 94 | B&C - Issue #130

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Heavy Construction Equipment

Future-proofing the industry

By Rosie Duff

Recent data released by The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), reveals that the number of new homes consented in the year ended May 2021, reached a record peak of 43,466; a 17 percent increase from 2020.

Fuelled by the ongoing industrial and urban boom, construction demand is certainly returning with a fever following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Supply, however? Now that’s an issue worth noting. Indeed, challenges posed by skill shortages and other additional logistical setbacks have resulted in some areas of the trade suffering.

Be that as it may, issues concerning economic cycles can often act as a catalyst for change.

And in the case of an ever-evolving market it’s imperative that the industry set their sights to the future when searching for a streamlined solution.

Fortunately, innovative and advanced technologies make it fairly painless for the sector to embrace new systems and processes which assist in creating and adding value for the customer.

Although, those that adapt sooner, rather than later, are more likely to reap the benefits of improved productivity.

Either way, from automated machinery to cloud-based software, it’s clear that digitalisation will play a significant role in transforming the traditional construction business model.

Cloud-based software Touted as the cornerstone for technological transformation in the industry, building information modelling (BIM) is a holistic approach to the design-build process.

Centred around digitally generated and managed information, this all-encompassing model draws on cloud software to generate a digital depiction of an asset across its lifespan.

However, the true allure of BIM, is that it invites stakeholders to be involved right the way through.

has a chance to touch down onsite, is truly ground-breaking.

reliability which is especially important given the industry’s current skill shortage.

From a project’s conception through to its completion; BIM is the future of New Zealand’s billion-dollar construction industry.

Also reducing operational costs and safety hazards, smart machines are a robust addition to any worksite.

Automated machinery

Another up-and-coming alternative to traditional construction methods, 3-D printing is a process by which tangible objects and structures are generated based on a digital model.

Time is money and money is time.

Fortunately, automated solutions used in conjunction with digital design workflows such as BIM, saves on both.

This state-of-the-art technology vastly improves product control and minimises the safety risks caused by human intervention.

Think of it like this; instead of a traditionally linear supply-chain you have a digitalised and collaborative feedback-loop.

Although a future consisting of self-driving heavy machinery may initially sound slightly threatening to some and an on-site accident waiting-to-happen to others, the autonomy of such machinery needn’t be cause for alarm.

Through allowing contributors open access to a project’s digital blueprint, BIM processes not only promote more productive construction methods, but also reduce safety hazards and catch any errors before they’re made.

Fitted with technology to recognise potential obstacles and prevent machinery from straying off track, automated solutions hold the potential to completely transform the landscape of construction in more ways than one.

Once challenges concerning mass production and regulation are overcome, the sky is both literally and figuratively the limit.

Having the means to accurately forecast all of the critical elements of a construction venture before any heavy machinery even

And whilst remote-controlled machines may not yet match the pace of human operators, automation provides consistency and

At the tip of this technological iceberg lies concrete-printed structures and 3-D cut cladding.

By enabling industry professionals to cut corners on time, cost and resources, 3-D printing may very well be the sustainable solution that helps answer the current demands of New Zealand’s construction market.

So, whilst these technologies are still relatively new, they’ve certainly solidified their spot as industry frontrunners when it comes to improving and streamlining traditional systems and processes.

But, if you’re still not sold, just remember; adopting new technologies will help increase levels of production and profitability significantly, which results in a larger and more affordable housing supply.

Indeed, with customer-value in mind, the future return on investing in new technology and equipment for your company now, will be priceless.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 95

Heavy Construction Equipment

How Fulton Hogan applied innovative technology to stabilise hazardous rock face When New Zealand contractor Fulton Hogan was awarded a contract to remediate a steep unstable rock face overlooking the Port of Otago, it was faced with a number of challenges to deliver the project safely, within a tight budget, and in a highly visible location.

The project, known as the Flagstaff Hill Earthworks, was to stabilise a steep hazardous rock face next to the Port.

Also known as Observation Point, reclamation of areas of the port during the 1990s had resulted in an unstable rock face, with several slips, as well as rocks and boulders falling to the road below.

For the past 20 years, half the roadway at the foot of the face has been battered off with safety fencing to protect public roads and walkways.

The area is one of outstanding beauty, with views to Otago Harbour’s historic Quarantine and Goat Islands, and across to the Otago Peninsula.

A KiwiRail line for freight and daily passenger services during the cruise ship season runs adjacent to the site, while both locals and tourists use the road and tracks below for recreation.

Over the years, slips have caused closure of the road, while frequent rock falls and boulders have come down the slope.

In about 2000, to minimise risks, Port Otago installed a shipping container wall across half of the road, along with additional safety catch fencing to protect the public. At the same time, an adjacent log yard storage and handling area was reduced, to allow the public road to use part of the Port’s land for access.

The unstable nature of the face meant daily inspections of the road had to be carried out since the 1990s works. Slips, boulders and rock falls had to be removed on an all-tooregular basis.

Consulting engineers WSP Opus were awarded a design contract to assess the underlying geology and develop a design for a cut slope with benches to remove the risk of further slips and rock falls in the area. The result of the design was the planned removal of 47,735m3 of material.

Fulton Hogan successfully tendered for the works, which commenced in the winter of 2019, completing the project in the four months to October 2019.

According to Grant Sime, Fulton Hogan’s senior project delivery manager in Dunedin, the contract scope was to work at height on an unstable rock face and strip off over 47,000m3 of clay and rock, and safely remove all the material from site.

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“Before we would work out where and how to start the physical work, the entire site needed to be accurately surveyed,” says Sime.

final design, making use of an excavator fitted with precision GPS-based machine control was the solution to this challenge.

“With existing gradients of 70% and greater, combined with the instability of the ground, putting people on the slope face would have been extremely dangerous.

Fulton Hogan purchased a Komatsu PC210LCi-10 intelligent Machine Control (iMC) excavator specifically for this project.

Based around Topcon’s precision machine control capabilities, fully factory integrated within the machines, iMC allows earthworks to be carried out to millimetre-level accuracy.

“Using our own in-house surveying team, and external subcontractor Jared Reeves of Overview Surveying, we carried out a point cloud survey using a drone to understand what we were up against.”

The pre-start drone survey was mapped against the required finished batter of 35%, along with three, five-metre wide benches at the top of the slope, so that the exact quantities of material to be excavated were known.

Given the safety and operational challenges of excavating on such a steep, unstable slope, Fulton Hogan sought input from excavator operators Ray Ta Huna and Kevin Patrick on how best to proceed.

“Having integrated Machine Control on this excavator was magic,” says Sime.

“Not having to set out pegs using manual survey methods improved efficiency tenfold.

And because we didn’t have to have a surveyor on the ground, it was much safer.

“In that type of environment, we had no option but to start at the top and work down, and there was no going back.

Sime describes Ray and Kevin as two of the best operators in the region.

“And the end result was without a doubt the best batter slope I ever been associated with,” he says. “It wasn’t just a simple slope either; it was benched at the top, then battered and curved around to follow the line of the point.”

“It’s simple,” says Ray. “When you are loading out from a digger, you sit on top of the material and load out while your mound comes down gradually.”

The designs for the batter were provided to Fulton Hogan electronically, then downloaded to the iMC excavator, so at all times it was working to the client’s designs.

Sime says this response gave Fulton Hogan the basis for how to proceed, knowing the company had full engagement of its expert operators.

“In addition, the client accepted the as-builts coming out of the machine,” sasys Sime.

“Together we developed a plan.”

With the drone survey having provided a highly accurate 3D overview of the existing site, and WSP Opus providing a 3D model of the required

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“Then, when we completed the 47,000 m3 material removal, we were between 80 to 100 m3 out, compared with the original design. It was so close, the client was just blown away. We are very proud of how close we got; in terms of that volume of material, it was nothing,” says Sime.

Why Fulton Hogan opted for Komatsu’s intelligent Machine Control When Fulton Hogan was considering which excavator machine control system to use on the project, Senior Project Delivery Manager Grant Sime says the company looked at a number of different makes.

“With the Komatsu system, what really impressed me was the simplicity of the cab layout for the operator. In terms of the operator interface, it’s spot on. I think it offers by far the best operator layout,” he says.

The operator’s view Operator Ray Te Huna, who’s been an earthmoving equipment operator for nearly 20 years, with the last 10 years almost exclusively on excavators, says the Komatsu iMC excavator made his job “a hell of a lot easier”.

“It also takes a lot more people off the ground, so it’s much safer and easier not having to work around them,” he says.

“Certainly, it’s heaps faster. I’m probably 50-60% quicker doing my work, because I don’t need people to check it all the time.

Now we just need the surveyors to come in and check the calibration a couple of times a week, if that.”

Since the Port Chalmers project, Te Huna’s been operating the iMC excavator on a range of projects, including a logging yard extension, building pads for a large carpark, drainage works, and on an arterial road project.

“Using designs imported into the machine is big time easier,” he says. “I think I’d probably find it hard going back to a conventional machine after this.”

Heavy Construction Equipment

Get your free hitch in time for the construction season!

Purchase a Komatsu excavator^ and get:

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0800 556 2878 | komatsu.co.nz *Terms and conditions apply visit: https://komatsuweb.link/nz-excavatoroffer-june21. Image is for illustration purposes only. ^Applies to Komatsu PC18MR-3, PC30MR-5, PC35MR-5, PC45MR-5, PC55MR-5, PC88MR-10, PC130-8, PC138US-8, PC138US-11, PC138USLC-11, PC170LC-11,PC200LC-8MO, PC210LC-11, PC210LCi-11, PC228USLC-8, PC228USLC-11, PC240LC-11, PC290LC-11, PC290LCi-11, PC300LC-8MO, PC360LC-11 & PC360LCi_11 only.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 97

Small Excavators

Cat’s 310 mini excavator maximises power and performance According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global mini excavators’ market is expected to garner $11,873.9 million by 2027.

WORKSAFE’S KEY EXCAVATION SAFETY POINTS: • Avoid underground services and make sure not to undermine nearby structures – use safe digging practice and dig away from them • Check the excavation each day before starting work and after any event that may affect its stability • Provide safe access to get in and out • Prevent collapse – shore, bench, or batter back. Do not assume ground will stand unsupported • Prevent people and materials falling in – with barriers strong enough not to collapse if someone falls against them.

It’s important to note that Cat designed their newest model with sustainability in mind.

This can be seen through the addition of auto-idle and auto-engine shutdown features which help to maximise fuel economy and minimise emissions.

Indeed, innovative technologies are pathing the way for smaller machines to yield more power. Many industry professionals are turning to smaller and more efficient machinery to get the job done.

Typically, small excavators are restricted by their dig depth and a reduced operating capacity.

However, Cat’s 310 mini excavator reportedly yields up to 25% more horsepower than

comparable models and boasts a broad range of applications.

The Cat 310 mini excavator also enjoys a host of upgraded health and safety features.

Compact by design, the Cat 310’s miniature size meets the demands of New Zealand’s current property market.

The most notable of these additions include an updated monitor system in the pressurised, ROPS- and TOPS-tested cab and a reversing camera, which allows the operator a clear-view of any obstacles behind the machine at all times. Courtesy work lights, a retractable seat belt and an improved protection kit, also improve the overall safety of the machine.

With developers closing in, small excavators make it easier to manoeuvre around tighter work-sites, which is potentially the largest gap left by the Cat 310’s full size predecessors.

An improved hydraulics system aided by a variable displacement pump also reduces operating costs and promotes overall efficiency.

From cutting down on fuel expenditure and reducing overall emissions, Cat cleverly position the 310-mini excavator as a sustainable solution to traditional heavy machinery equipment.

For more information on Cat 310 Mini Excavators, visit terracat.co.nz, or phone 0800 93 39 39.

Packing a Punch – Next Generation Cat 313 and 315 Excavators The Next Generation Cat 313 and 315 excavators with integrated 2D or 3D system have made a big impact on the local building and construction scene since their introduction by Terra Cat. Designed to punch way above their weight, the 13-tonne and 15-tonne Cat excavators come with a massive amount of advanced technology packed into their design. It’s both cutting-edge and cost-saving in a multitude of ways.

Terra Cat manager for general construction industries Tim O’Meara explains: “The Cat 313 and 315 are the first next generation excavators in the 13-to 15-tonne size class with this level of factory installed on-board technology to be released in New Zealand” Equally impressive is the manufacturer’s claim that Cat 3D Grade technologies and efficiencies can equate to up to 20% savings in maintenance costs and up to 45% improvement in productivity.

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“A fully integrated 3D machine in this size class gives operators something they can work with whether it’s for small excavation works or larger projects that are required to work on complex survey designs. The 13- to 15-tonne machine size is the most popular model sold in New Zealand and makes up to 40% of total excavator sales in the 13- to 50-tonne range.

“It’s a massive and vital part of the excavator industry. More contractors are adopting 3D technology because it’s a real advantage for them to be efficient over a range of different jobs. It’s also essential for us to provide them with a very cost-effective solution that’s fully supported” says Tim. “Terra Cat and SITECH will partner together to cover your machine with on and off board site infrastructure to ensure you have seamless support for your Cat grade technology for the EPP warranty period of 3 years.”

The Cat 313 is versatile and designed to work easily and efficiently on a wide variety of sites. “It can move around easily with limited transport restrictions, so fits the bill, particularly in the areas of smaller construction and residential development. This size class is also

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used a lot in roading and road maintenance, and the compact radius version 315 fits well in a single lane of traffic and can swing in a tight area. Whether its roading, land clearing, or agricultural and farm work, it’s a perfect size machine. It has lots of power for heavy work but is nimble and not too cumbersome to carry out the smaller, detailed operations,” says Tim.

has been one of the key developments and represents a massive investment by Cat over the past 15 years.

An exciting advance with the 3D system is the ability to problem solve remotely. “We can support the operation remotely, send files to the machine, or update software. This additional connectivity enables us to support any on-site challenges that arise.”

“Engine, hydraulic, and other oil capacities are greatly reduced by between 17 to 40% across the range of next gen machines. We’re also burning less fuel by between 15 and 25%. Most equipment engines used to operate at around 1800 to 2000rpm; now we’re between 1400 and 1600rpm. The engine speed is right down with a greater level of hydraulic performance.

We’ve also applied greater parts commonality on all maintenance parts further reducing cost and waste.”

Both the 313 and 315 are powered by the Cat C3.6 engine, which meets strict global emission standards, and according to Tim, this

For more information on Cat Next Generation Excavators, visit terracat.co.nz, or phone 0800 93 39 39

Small Excavators

NEXT GENERATION EXCAVATORS Discover the all new Cat® 313 and 315 excavators. Experience the next generation.

Cat® 313 and 315 Next Generation Excavators give you new ways to get the most work done at the lowest cost – leaving you with more money in your pocket.

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Contact TerraCat to find out more.

+ 1.99% Finance available* + 2000 hour parts and labour CVA

terracat.co.nz 0800 93 39 39

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Issue #130 - B&C | 99

Design Engineering

Calibration, certification and compliance Design Engineering are calibration, certification, compliance and consulting engineering specialists delivering dependable solutions throughout the Pacific.

and all staff remain competent in their respective duties.

It has grown organically from humble beginnings to having in excess of 35 staff operating from five branches nationally – in Timaru (Head Office), Dunedin, Christchurch, Nelson, and Te Rapa, Hamilton – as well as an overseas office, in Suva, Fiji.

“Our mobile vehicles enable all your equipment that requires calibration, testing and inspection is completed on or off site with minimal disruption to you, enabling a fast and efficient turn around to get your equipment back into service quickly.”

“Holding IANZ accreditation to ISO 17020 Design Verification, Equipment Inspections and Non Destructive Testing ensures our work is recognised worldwide and our highly trained staff are suitably qualified to international requirements and experience to undertake their respective duties.”

This service extends to its test lab facilities, where you can courier or drop off equipment and get it x-rayed, calibrated, etc and returned within a short period of time.

Design Engineering’s team of consulting engineers can undertake a wide range of structural design and consent process (PS1) including industrial; residential and commercial buildings; foundations and retaining walls; seismic assessment and strengthening of existing buildings (IEP & DEE); construction monitoring (PS4); and peer reviews (PS2).

Regular annual internal and external audits are carried out to ensure the design engineering quality management system is maintained and functioning correctly,

It is a statutory requirement in New Zealand under PECPR regulations to have pressure equipment, cranes and passenger ropeways inspected annually.

You can view Design Engineering’s scope of accreditation anytime by visiting the IANZ web site (www.ianz.govt.nz).

Design Engineering’s chartered professional engineers, managed by Dean Van Buuren and Joe Calleja, offer you a professional, efficient service in New Zealand and throughout the Pacific. This includes but is no limited to: • Civil engineering • Statutory and industrial equipment inspections • Non-destructive testing and welding • Structural engineering • Steel detailing and draughting • Calibration of electrical equipment • Mechanical engineering and design verification of cranes.

The team uses a multi-disciplinary approach to solve complex problems in a timely fashion.

“Through our experience, commitment and service, we are confident that we can take on any problem you have.

“We have the know-how and drive to develop practical solutions through skill, knowledge and good old-fashioned hard work that comes from more than 17 years in the problem-solving business and a combined 250 years of engineering experience.

“We are market leaders in our areas of expertise, providing design, calibration and testing, certification, management, and nondestructive testing for our clients.

Design Engineering

12 Izone Drive Rolleston (03) 348 6713 adminchch@detim.co.nz www.designengineering.co.nz

“Our passion is to provide you with a service that is professional and courteous, combined with a dedication to accuracy, reliability, service, value, safety and quality assurance, which is what sets us apart from others in the industry.”

Comprehensive engineering solutions Design Engineering was established in 1991 when Managing Director Mr Dean Van Buuren was working in the tertiary sector and was being requested on a regular basis to assist with large projects for drawings, structural steel inspection and welding qualification testing.

Realising a need in the industry, Design Engineering was launched and has quickly grown over the past 30 years to be a highlyrespected industry leader.

In 2021 a major restructure was implemented due to Covid-19, a few bumps and the huge growth experienced over 29 years so the DE Group was formed, this includes three separate limited liability companies trading as the following entities: • DE Consulting Engineers & Inspection • DE Calibration & Compliance • Survey NZ.

There are in excess of 35 staff across four branches within the three new entities located in Christchurch, Timaru (Head Office), Te Rapa Hamilton, Nelson and Dunedin.

The four main areas that DE Group specialise in are calibration, certification, compliance and consulting.

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www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Our team has worked on an array of high profile medium and large structural steel projects, including: • Sky Stadium Wellington • Indoor Stadium Christchurch • Remarkables Base Amenities Building Queenstown • ASB Don Street, Invercargill • 5 Mile Development Queenstown • St Albans School Christchurch • Holcim Timaru & Holcim Auckland new cement facilities and loadouts.

We pride ourselves on the results achieved for these and many other projects.

If you would like to find out more about our services, or you have an opportunity for Design Engineering to assist with your engineering service requirements on any given project, and/or require a free quotation, please contact us.

Recycling & Waste

Tonkin + Taylor Let’s be honest, the waste generated during construction makes up only a fraction of the cost of typical project.

But now more than ever it makes sense to find ways to recycle and reuse, while reducing the amount of building waste going to landfill. You’ll save on hefty disposal costs and be helping to create a legacy of sustainability, both now and for the future.

What’s more, your clients will love you for it.

If you’re looking for help with waste reduction opportunities on a specific project or a broader strategy for your business to meet client requirements and realise opportunities presented by changes in policy and costs, Tonkin + Taylor (T+T) is happy to help. We know the construction and land development sectors. We have worked with multiple clients on construction waste at project and strategy levels and we have great knowledge of how things really work across New Zealand.

New Government policies will lift the cost of disposal by around $100 per tonne over the next few years. That means those framing ends or plasterboard off cuts are costing you twice – to buy, and then to have carted away.

With disposal costs going up quickly, waste companies are offering sorting and recovery services to manage the cost to clients.

If you are building for government, councils or corporates you’ve probably been asked about how you manage your waste. Options will vary by location and by project. You might be able to reuse materials onsite, send materials for storing or processing elsewhere at established operations or have to hunt out some good options yourself. You’ll also probably want to report on how you have managed waste for contract compliance – data that’s also useful for future tenders and general promotions.

Planning how you will deal with waste early in a project will save time and cost – this just good project management.

If you’re looking for help with waste reduction opportunities on a specific project or a broader strategy for your business to meet client requirements and realise opportunities presented by changes in policy and costs, Tonkin + Taylor (T+T) is happy to help.

Finally, it is all very well to send your waste for recycling, but the system doesn’t work if there is no market for the material.

In a construction project there will be opportunities to specify or use recovered materials. Recycled crushed concrete is a standard product in parts of New Zealand where aggregate is expensive.

Recycled plastic is an option for edging or boxing and recycled fibreglass insulation is well established.

All in all, it is important to capture information efficiently. To talk to T+T about construction waste including app-based support for easy reporting, just scan the below QR code to fill in the form.

Some things you might consider: • Predict your waste and look for cost effective ways to reuse materials or send them for recycling • Don’t forget to think about when different materials will be generated - Rubble during demolition or site preparation - Timber, pipe and strapping off cuts during framing and lining - Plasterboard during interior lining - Cardboard and other packaging during fit out.

Let your team dream up and try out a few ideas. Most people are very happy to find ways to reduce and reuse project waste.

Need help to develop your waste reduction strategy? Tonkin + Taylor’s specialist team and our app-based support make reporting easy, make your clients happy and save you money on rising disposal costs.

Best of all, you’ll be shining the light on a sustainable future.

To get in touch, just fill in the form here or give us a call.

Chris Purchas Sector Director - Waste E: cpurchas@tonkintaylor.co.nz T: +64 4 806 4935 Anna Ainsworth Environmental Consultant E: aaninsworth@tonkintaylor.co.nz T: +64 4 806 4938

www.tonkintaylor.co.nz

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 101

Recycling & Waste

Waste-to-landfill

What’s best practice in New Zealand today?

Just over a year ago, a new ecolabel was launched and it was one with big ambitions – to help tackle construction and demolition waste in New Zealand.

Why an ecolabel? Its creator, Environmental Choice New Zealand (ECNZ), sets the highest standards for environmental preferability in New Zealand.

If you see a product, such as a cleaning product – or even toilet paper – with the ECNZ logo, you can be assured the manufacturer has done everything it could do to create better environmental outcomes, from material sourcing through to end-of-life solutions.

“Having external validation gives businesses an advantage, especially in a sector that is increasingly under the microscope by government, councils and the public,” says Francesca.

The resulting specification, Construction & Demolition Waste Services (EC-59 C&D Waste), outlines in detail how to effectively and efficiently deal with construction and demolition waste.

For example, it requires separating waste onsite and achieving at least 70 percent diversion from landfill.

It means looking for ways to eliminate, reuse or recycle materials like concrete, steel, polystyrene, and plastic componentry.

It also means making sure employees understand what effective waste management is.

ECNZ decided it was time we collectively understood what best practice means when it comes to dealing with construction and demolition waste.

The great news for architects, builders, and developers is that the ECNZ ecolabel for construction and demolition waste supports Green Star accreditation.

Over a period of 12 months, ECNZ consulted with experts in the field and developed a thorough specification that is available online for free public viewing.

Buildings applying for a Green Star rating need to demonstrate that they comply with a number of credits.

ECNZ general manager, Francesca Lipscombe says the ecolabel is right for organisations that care about sustainability, want to do it well, and want to be recognised for their efforts – especially by their customers.

“If you are working on a building project where the waste contractor or waste generator has an ECNZ licence, Green Star’s mandatory minimum reporting requirement for construction and demolition waste is automatically met. In addition, projects using

ECNZ licensed waste contractors also qualify for one point under Green Star’s 70 percent diversion from landfill credit.”

The ecolabel in action A pioneering, demolition, Christchurch company, Taggart, used the ecolabel to gain more business and divert thousands of tonnes of waste from landfill by relocating, recycling, reusing, or repurposing materials from demolitions.

In the first year, Taggart completed 14 ECNZ licenced projects, achieving best practice in waste diversion – including for the demolition of Lancaster Stadium’s Tui Stand, for which it diverted close to 100 percent of all waste.

Taggart CEO, Paul Taggart says because the ecolabel sets the toughest standards for construction and demolition waste removal in New Zealand, it was a high benchmark for the team to set themselves against.

“We sought the Environmental Choice New Zealand ecolabel to set the company apart from competitors and provide verification of our waste-reduction processes,” says Paul.

“It shows we are different from those that knock buildings down and take things straight to the dump.

“Having the ecolabel helps us win tenders, especially in the public sector. It sets a standard and inspires us all to think creatively about how we can divert, reuse or recycle waste.”

Francesca Lipscombe, ECNZ general manager.

Paul says a real driver for Taggart is that the cost of dumping is very expensive and “it was big bonus if we could find smarter ways of dealing with materials that bring an environmental saving as well.

“We found being reuse-focused didn’t add more time, and because we won more work as a result, we were able to invest funds into new equipment.”

Francesca Lipscombe says Taggart’s achievements show companies do not need to sacrifice time or cost to achieve results that are environmentally best practice.

“Paul and his team are leading by example.

Taggart has shown that reducing waste is not only good for the country, but it’s good for business, too.”

To find out more about the EC-59 C&D Waste licence, visit the Environmental Choice New Zealand website, https:// environmentalchoice.org.nz/.

Komptech CEA – your waste solutions partner Since commencing the distribution of Komptech equipment last year, Komptech CEA has evolved into a one stop shop for the supply of machinery and systems for the mechanical and mechanical-biological treatment of solid waste and for the treatment of biomass as a renewable energy source.

As the New Zealand distributor of Komptech waste recycling equipment, Komptech CEA is well equipped to provide customers with everything from machines, to parts, and service support all in the one location.

While Komptech is well known for its extensive range of high-quality products, the brand also continues to enhance the range of products ensuring they are not only fit for purpose but perform exceptionally well in the harshest of conditions.

Komptech provides machinery solutions for composting, fermentation, biomass treatment, mechanical and mechanicalbiological waste treatment, waste wood treatment and special applications for shredding and separation. As the waste and recycling industry continues to grow and evolve, new business opportunities 102 | B&C - Issue #130

constantly present themselves and require the support of an agile machinery supplier with the ability to adapt with them. The rapid change requires a high level of flexibility and fast reaction times. With Komptech, customers have a dynamic partner that not only develops machinery but customises it to meet the needs of today and tomorrow.

At Komptech it’s not just about machines and systems, it’s about providing customerbased solutions.

Komptech’s innovative products have firmly cemented the brands position as a world leader in waste treatment and biomass processing. Meeting the challenge of quickly understanding the trends in the market and addressing them without delay has been a critical component of the brands success. Collaborating with well-known research institutes and monitoring the

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market together with key industry bodies have resulted in new developments and refinements that are leading edge. With Komptech’s extensive experience in all facets of waste treatment, the brand has an comprehensive understanding from which customers benefit through consultation with Komptech specialists. Komptech’s expertise is based on a large pool of data, covering all parameters from screen analysis to throughput to energy consumption.

While the Komptech range delivers on performance, it also offers exceptional value for money. With over 30 different types of machines covering all key process steps in modern waste handling, including shredding,

screening, separating and biological treatment. The team at Komptech CEA has a machine to suit all your requirements.

For Komptech CEA, the focus is always on innovative technology and solutions that ensure maximum customer benefit.

When it comes to screening and separating equipment, Komptech CEA can provide customers with both mobile and stationary products and a solution to all your waste treatment and biomass processing needs.

To find our more contact – Komptech CEA P: 0800 435 269 W: http://www.komptechcea.com.au/

Recycling & Waste

DELIVERING A GREENER FUTURE Komptech CEA is a leading supplier of machinery and systems for the treatment of solid waste through mechanical and mechanical biological treatments, as well as the treatment of biomass as a renewable energy source. Komptech CEA is proud to provide innovative solutions for handling waste and biomass.

Komptech CEA’s extensive range of products cover all key processing steps in modern waste handling. At Komptech CEA the focus is always on innovative technology and solutions ensuring maximum benefit to the customer. Like to know more? why not speak to one of our team today?

SHREDDERS

TROMMEL SCREENS

TERMINATOR Where Function Meets Technology A slow-running, single-shaft shredder suited to all types of waste.

STAR SCREENS

WINDROW TURNERS

MULTI STAR Screening with a Star Makes waste wood and biomass processing highly efficient

CRAMBO

NEMUS

Less Fuel, More Power

Robust and Reliable

Ideal for shredding all types of wood and green cuttings.

Combining the practice-proven virtues of its predecessors with new solutions for even greater performance

TOPTURN X

AXTOR

The Ideal Combination of Performance and Design

Shredding and Chipping Made Easy

With a sturdy frame, powerful hydraulics and large drum, the Topturn X is ready to handle any work situation.

One of the most versatile machines around for processing wood and green cuttings.

0800 435 269 komptechcea.com.au www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 103

Recycling & Waste

Waste not, want not The construction and demolition sector can make up about 50 percent of New Zealand’s waste according to BRANZ. It’s no wonder why the Government would expand the waste disposal levy to include construction and demolition fill.

Originally, the waste disposal levy was introduced via the Waste Minimisation Act 2008 in order to raise revenue towards efforts to minimise waste. However, the levy only applied to municipal landfills. Even still, the revenue raised from the levy was able to fund Green Gorilla’s commercial and industrial waste line.

In 2020 the Auckland-based waste service provider received $3.1 million from the Waste Minimisation Fund for its project because of the provider’s intentionality in diverting waste from landfill. According to Green Gorilla, it pulls about five tonnes of nails and metal from construction waste every day.

Since then, the Government has increased and expanded the waste disposal levy to include construction and demolition fill and managed or controlled fill facilities. The levy at municipal landfills went from $10 to $20 a tonne on 1 July 2021 while the levy for construction and demolition fills will only be introduced in 2022 at $20 per tonne.

WasteMINZ CEO, Janine Brinsdon says, “The increased cost of disposal will eventually have an economic impact. It will also

generate $276m per annum by 2024 – a significant increase from $30 million per annum in 2020. This revenue will be reinvested into waste minimisation projects, including investment in C&D waste projects.

“However, it could also have unintended consequences. We could see an increase in waste being dumped in non-controlled locations, to avoid the levy.”

Although a possibility, considering waste disposal should be budgeted in construction projects. Hopefully those within the industry can jump on board with the efforts being made to divert and minimise waste as the benefits are hard to pass up.

Janine points out that retaining the value of construction materials through diversion and reuse will support local economies, reduce the need for imports while also saving on the cost of waste disposal.

“If the sector doesn’t embrace reduction in the levels of waste being sent for disposal, rather than reused or repurposed, then the financial impact to the sector will be at a level where it will add additional pressure on margins and costs. Increased focus on

Waste can be diverted by extracting and reusing materials like metals.

waste minimisation at design and more effective material separation management, either onsite or aggregated, will help mitigate this risk.”

Furthermore, BRANZ suggests that much of what is considered ‘construction waste’ could easily be diverted from landfills simply by sorting the waste. Other economic costs BRANZ highlights includes the operation and maintenance of landfills and the cost of transporting waste to landfills.

Looking ahead In order to effectively minimise waste from the construction and demolition industry, Janine says a change of mindset is required so that we recognise most materials used in construction has an intrinsic value. With that in mind, WasteMINZ is positioning itself in two ways to address the waste generated by the construction and demolition industry.

To explain, Janine says, “In May this year, the Ministry for the Environment called for organisations to pitch for a share of the $10 million Waste Minimisation Fund, including projects that would have a positive impact on C&D waste and organic material. WasteMINZ has applied for some of this funding.

“We’ve also set up a new Recycling & Resource Recovery sector group within WasteMINZ that will include a focus on the C&D industry. We’re currently looking for members to help set up this group and would welcome any new members who are interested in this area.”

For those interested in teaming up with WasteMINZ and joining its new Recycling & Resource Recovery group, more information on membership can be found at www. wasteminz.org.

How can EXPOL help you in your eco building projects?

With demand from ecominded homeowners increasing, building sites are going green. But how do you responsibly deal with the waste that building produces?

When you’re dealing with polystyrene products, that is where EXPOL comes in. This month we are showcasing the work that EXPOL is doing to lessen the impact of its products on the planet – and your building site. EXPOL has made a commitment to the environment and its seven zero waste factories recycle an amazing 400 tons of polystyrene a year.

Construction and Building Site Recycling Programme EXPOL has a Construction and Building Site Recycling Programme for builders who have polystyrene waste on their building site.

If the products is from EXPOL, they will collect it from site and recycle it.

How it works: • Using the bags provided, bag up your polystyrene waste • Request a collection via email, phone or through EXPOL’s Recycling App • An EXPOL truck will collect it from your site.

So how can EXPOL help you?

How to handle polystyrene responsibly on site

EXPOL has made a commitment to the environment and its seven zero waste factories recycle an amazing 400 tons of polystyrene a year.

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When handling polystyrene on site, EXPOL has put together some recommendations to ensure that the local environment is not impacted.

Firstly, ensure that polystyrene is stored properly. Have a flat, accessible storage area to stack product and ensure that it is weighted down, especially in windy conditions.

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Next, ensure you keep the site clean when cutting polystyrene. Use a fine tooth saw or a cutting device that reduces dust – a chainsaw is not recommended. Cut your product in a confined area to reduce the spread of dust.

Bag up offcuts as soon as possible to prevent them being blown around or trampled into the soil.

Finally, book a collection from EXPOL to have your polystyrene waste collected and recycled.

Make the sustainable product purchase A big part of sustainable building is choosing the right materials from the outset. EXPOL’s expanded polystyrene offers exceptional eco-credentials and is ideally suited to new generation, eco-friendly building projects.

A massive 75 percent (by volume) of the products that EXPOL manufactures use recycled content. These products are built tough and will last for the life of your build.

However, when their use has come to an end, they can be recycled again and again to make new EXPOL products. The ability to continually reuse and recycle these materials in the manufacturing process makes it a truly sustainable product.

EXPOL Earth Resource Centre We are proud to responsibly manufacture products that help Kiwis live in dryer, warmer and more energy efficient homes.

If you would like to learn more about the sustainable practices at EXPOL and our commitment to the environment visit our resource centre at www.expolearth.co.nz or call us on 0800 86 33 73.

Recycling & Waste

Our Philosophy At EXPOL we’ve made a commitment to the environment and take responsible environmental manufacturing seriously.

With our focus on a true closed-loop manufacturing process we’ve introduced EXPOL Earth - a resource centre which provides information on our recycling initiatives.

All EXPOL polystyrene products are recyclable. 75% of the polystyrene products (by volume) we manufacture contain recycled content ranging from 10% to 100%.

EXPOL’s range of recycled content products include: EXPOL Tuff Pods, EXPOL StyroDrain, EXPOL QuickDrain, EXPOL ThermaSlab, EXPOL UnderFloor.

Our Construction and Building Site Recycling Programme.

This initiative is specifically designed for the construction and building industry who purchase EXPOL product.

Any polystyrene construction waste is collected from the building site and we close the loop by recycling it into other EXPOL product.

Collection of polystyrene waste is easy with EXPOL. At EXPOL the delivery of your polystyrene construction products is not where it ends.

We provide a polystyrene waste collection service via our Recycling App, phone or email.

Contact us now on 0800 86 33 73 and see how we can make it easy for you to responsibly dispose of your waste polystyrene and keep your site clean.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 105

Demolition & Asbestos Removal

What to consider before committing to demolition work Some relevant info for people considering demolition work is: any properties built before the year 2000 will now need to have a demolition asbestos survey done by a competent person, preferably a licenced asbestos assessor.

It is a legal requirement that any asbestos in a property is identified before demolition work takes place so it can be removed safely.

City Salvage Contractors

There is also a chance that other asbestos will be found as work progresses e.g. as packers in the house foundations or under concrete pads. If this is the case work will need to stop until it has been professionally removed.

Asbestos removal falls in to two categories: Class A (friable asbestos) and Class B (nonfriable asbestos). All Class A and more than 10 sqm of Class B asbestos need to be removed by an appropriately licensed asbestos remover.

Regarding trees and garden areas on the property – it is important that the client discusses with the demo contractor if they want to retain particular trees or garden areas. Some may not be able to be saved if they are too close to the house.

544 Tuam St Christchurch (03) 260 4682 contracts@citysalvage.co.nz

Also please allow time for power removal, as the relevant power company must be asked to remove power for demolition – it’s not enough just to sign out of a property.

Sometimes it can take a few weeks for power to be removed and demolition work cannot start until this has been done.

Another hidden cost is traffic management.

If the property is on a main road there may be the additional cost of a council approved traffic management plan.

We should also mention managing waste – Salvage is another problem area; if a client demo contractors sort waste as much as they wants to retain any house materials, they should discuss this during the pricing process. can to minimize the amount going to landfill.

DEMOLITION & ASBESTOS REMOVAL

Salvage materials are removed for resale as much as possible. Scrap metal, concrete, shingle and green waste are dumped separately.

We operate the Pumphouse Demolition Yard where we recycle bricks, aluminum joinery, flooring, corrugated iron, doors, windows, bathroom/kitchen fittings and other materials.

The cost of landfill dumping affects demolition costing and there has been a significant increase in landfill cost already this year and a likelihood of more price increases as time goes on.

It is a legal requirement that any asbestos in a property is identified before demolition work takes place so it can be removed safely.

“Put our experience to work on your project” Commerical and residential demolition Asbestos removal - classes A & B Site clearances Large or small projects Contact us for a no obligation quote

CITY SALVAGE CONTRACTORS W: www.citysalvage.co.nz E: info@citysalvage.co.nz 544 Tuam Street, Christchurch, PO Box 32139 Christchurch 106 | B&C - Issue #130

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CONTACT: 0274 324 878 OFFICE PHONE: 03 389 9650

Jones Contracting Queenstown

Adaptability — the crucial ingredient for Jones Contracting Based in Arrowtown, Jones Contracting Queenstown Ltd covers the whole Wakatipu Basin specialising in house pad dig-outs, driveways, general landscaping work, and so on.

As Queenstown is becoming increasingly builtup and access for large trucks and transporter trailers is getting limited, Jones Contracting has purchased specialised equipment.

Two Posi-Track Skid-Steer loaders with rubber tracks- these all-terrain vehicles are perfect for landscaping, irrigation trenching and lawn preparation. Arriving on the back of a 4x2 tipper truck, there is no access problems and no blocking the road. Also the small truck can cart away fill and rubbish and return with topsoil, sand or gravel.

The very versatile Posi-Tracks have several attachments including the lawnleveller for preparing topsoil and removing stones so you can throw away your rake and save your back.

You can also get rid of your shovel and get the Posi-Track with trencher attachment to dig irrigation trenches. In addition, there is a post hole auger, so no need to manually dig holes.

Two rubber-wheeled excavators can be driven directly to your site, ready to work.

These diggers are excellent for excavating house pads, garage pads, driveways or spreading gravel. Great for moving from siteto-site with no waiting.

Staying with the two-of-a-kind theme, Jones Contracting is well-known for its award winning Western Star Trucks. These trucks demand attention with masses of shiny chrome and lights galore.

This impressive American-style truck can cart in small or large quantities of topsoil, gravel and sand, and then cart away unwanted fill.

With excavators ranging in size from 3.5 to 22 tonne, there is an excavator for any job, from commercial building dig-outs to house pads or landscaping.

Topsoil, bark chip and a range of gravels are available either from their yard or delivered to your property. The staff at Jones Contracting are long-term locals with a good grounding in Queenstown’s unique terrain and can easily deal with special requirements.

Machines made to work hard Earthworks and Excavation

Heavy Haulage

Residential and Commercial

Transporting

Heavy Vehicle Recovery

Landscaping

Gravel and Topsoil Supplies Sound Advice

Free quotes

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Issue #130 - B&C | 107

Master Plumbers

Green gas plan required before banning new gas connections Master Plumbers is urging the Government to not race into a ban on new gas connections, with even the Climate Change Commission pointing to the need for more investment in green gas alternatives.

In its final advice to the Government, the Climate Change Commission continues to assume there will be no further fossil gas connections to homes and businesses after 2025.

However, it also recognises the role green gas alternatives can play in reducing New Zealand’s emissions, and the need for more investment to understand its potential.

Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers NZ CEO, Greg Wallace says the industry is 100 percent supportive of the move to carbon neutrality by 2050, but there needs to be a realistic plan to get there.

“Getting rid of new gas connections in four years before fully developing green gas alternatives is short-sighted, and runs a real risk of hamstringing the development of new energy sources.

“What is needed is investment in green gas development, and urgent investment in the training and facilities for gasfitters to upskill in these alternative fuel technologies,” he says.

A gasfitting apprenticeship is five years, and new green gases will require new training and certification. In addition, there is potential for the green hydrogen industry to need mechanical, engineering and gasfitting skillsets, depending on what it is being used to power, he says.

“There’s a real opportunity for New Zealand to benefit from green gas technology and achieve its carbon neutral goals.

“But we need to plan how to get there, invest and train our people to be ready to hit the ground running once the new technology is ready to roll out.”

Hydrogen, biogas and bioLPG are set to play a significant role in helping New Zealand reach its carbon neutrality target by 2050. A huge amount of research and development is already underway to ensure a smooth transition from natural gas and LPG over the coming years.

“We can expect to see green hydrogen blended with natural gas in our gas networks within the next 10 years, and it has the potential to completely replace natural gas for cooking, heating and hot water in our homes,” Greg says.

Hydrogen fuel cell technology is also being developed as an alternative way to generate electricity to power homes and businesses.

“This has the added advantage of electricity storage, providing vital back-up as New 108 | B&C - Issue #130

Zealand’s electricity demand increases due to the massive growth in electric vehicles.

leading membership and advocacy organisation for the plumbing industry.

“Australia has already jumped on the opportunity, investing AU$20m in a new hydrogen training centre,” Greg says.

“A skilled workforce is the key to success in transitioning to zero-emission green hydrogen.

They own Masterlink – the country’s only national apprenticeship group training programme specialising in the plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying trades.

“By ensuring gasfitters have the skills to work with hydrogen and biofuels, New Zealand will be able to maximise the economic and environmental opportunities presented by these exciting new technologies.”

The call for permanent apprenticeship boost Master Plumbers is joining the call for the Government to make the Apprenticeship Boost scheme permanent.

The scheme, which provides financial support to employers of apprentices during the first two years of an apprenticeship, is currently scheduled to end in August 2022.

“We believe the Apprenticeship Boost could make a permanent difference to the number of trainees in the system, and we support the initiative 100 per cent,” Master Plumbers and Masterlink CEO, Greg Wallace says.

“Education Minister Chris Hipkins recently announced a 17 percent increase in people starting apprenticeships. This shows the significant impact that the Apprenticeship Boost is having in assisting employers to train New Zealand’s future skilled workforce.

“This is the best thing the government can do to address the skills shortage.”

Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ Inc. (Master Plumbers) is New Zealand’s

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General manager, Steve Strawbridge confirms that Masterlink has not only seen an increase in businesses taking on apprentices, but is continuing to see increased numbers of female, Māori, Pasifika and more mature New Zealanders, including career switchers, applying to become apprentices.

“Government funding is definitely supporting employers to retain their existing apprentices and take on new ones – and free trades training (TTAF) is encouraging a more diverse range of applicants to consider a career in our trades,” Steve says.

“We have more female apprentices in training than ever before. Our youngest apprentice is 16 years old, our oldest is in their forties and the average age of an apprentice is rising.

“Our applicants reflect the ethnic diversity of our population. We believe that making the funding permanent would be the best outcome for our industry and for our country.”

About Master Plumbers Master Plumbers is a national membership organisation representing registered plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers in New Zealand. It provides support to member businesses including exclusive resources, deals and discounts.

Greg Wallace, Master Plumbers chief executive.

It also provides training courses open to non-members and advocates on matters t hat impact the plumbing industry.

Current advocacy projects include a drive to prevent substandard plumbing products from being imported into the New Zealand market, a push for self-certification for plumbers and drainlayers to help speed up construction processes and involvement in the government’s review of vocational education.

Master Plumbers

PO Box 6606 Marion Square Wellington 6141 (04) 384 4184 info@masterplumbers.org.nz www.masterplumbers.org.nz

Master Plumbers

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 109

BOP Plumbing & Gas

BOP Plumbing & Gas wins top award In 2016 Sarah and Aaron Jamieson’s plumbing and gasfitting business merged with Aaron’s dad Graham’s to create BOP Plumbing & Gas. They haven’t looked back since.

With over 30 years’ experience, a solid reputation and foundation of trust in the Bay of Plenty, the past five years has seen their staff grow from five to 28 and they now have two branches – in Kawerau and Rotorua.

This growth had a strong business plan at its core and has culminated in their winning the 2021 Master Plumber of the Year award.

When asked what’s behind their success in capturing the premier award, BOP Plumbing & Gas co-owner and commercial manager, Sarah Jamieson jokes, “Probably because we put an entry in. So that might have helped.”

Seriously though, she puts it down to a fiveyear period of steady growth, taking on a business coach, having a marketing plan, and overhauling the company’s systems and processes.

Graham Jamieson, Sarah Jamieson and Aaron Jamieson (with kids and team).

They upgraded their fleet of vehicles, rebranded, put the staff in uniforms and provided them with business cards – all aimed at displaying a professional image.

BOP Plumbing & Gas believes that tradespeople are professionals.

It takes five years to get qualified, and this level of knowledge and skill is what they want to solidify in customers’ minds.

The business coach helped them determine what kind of structure the company needed to move forward.

“I’m an accountant, so we didn’t need help with the financials. It was more about how do we build the team and what kind of management structure? This was when we realised that we needed an operations manager. And we got Rhys Curtis onboard in March this year.”

This also means managing director Aaron Jamieson is free to take on a more supervisory role where he is mentoring

We’ve got over 50 years’ experience supporting local businesses like BOP Plumbing & Gas. Congratulations to BOP Plumbing & Gas who won the 2021 New Zealand Master Plumber of the Year Award at the 2021 New Zealand Plumbing Awards!

Proudly 100% Kiwi owned Branches Nationwide plumbingworld.co.nz

You spend a lot of your life at work, so it has to be enjoyable. We like to show our staff they are valued.

When we won the award, we took the whole team out to celebrate, as our success takes the work of every one of them.

- BOP Plumbing & Gas co-owner and commercial manager, Sarah Jamieson

younger and less experienced staff on the job. This gives customers a great impression and sense of confidence in the level of workmanship.

Training and retaining staff is high up on the couple’s list of priorities. Sarah and Aaron aim to take on apprentices every six months in Rotorua and every 12 months in Kawerau.

“The industry has trouble finding good tradespeople and we hope to help people into good, stable jobs while training good staff for our industry.”

Sarah says that they regard their staff as extended family and they demonstrate this by strengthening relationships with regular team get-togethers and an annual team building event.

The Jamiesons also believe that creating a great environment for their staff pays off in their workmanship. It’s not all about the money but the other things BOP Plumbing & Gas offers their staff, like time off for family events. They also pay their staff’s health insurance.

“You spend a lot of your life at work, so it has to be enjoyable. We like to show our staff they are valued. When we won the award, we took the whole team out to celebrate, as our success takes the work of every one of them.”

Keeping it in the family doesn’t always work when it comes to running a business, but in the case of BOP Plumbing & Gas, it does.

Sarah puts this down to having clear lines of demarcation.

“We were quite clear and defined in our roles from the outset,” says Sarah. “Personally, I was adamant that I didn’t want to be the person in the office. I am an accountant

110 | B&C - Issue #130

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Sarah and Aaron Jamieson.

and I prefer working with numbers in the background. That is where my passion is.”

Sarah gave birth to her first child not long after the companies’ merger in 2016 and just a few months after that discovered she was pregnant with the couple’s second child. It’s been a full-on few years, to say the least.

All the hard work and progressive thinking has paid off, with the business expansion that’s been topped off by official recognition.

Although, Sarah says they weren’t really expecting to win the top award at the 2021 New Zealand Plumbing Awards.

“I’m not very good at speaking in front of people and the fact I’d had a fair few drinks wasn’t going to help the situation. Aaron spoke and put it all down to me. It isn’t, of course, it’s a team thing. Our business isn’t the business it is without the team we’ve got.”

With this kind of philosophy, it’s clear why BOP Plumbing & Gas are a success with their customers and why they won the top gong.

BOP Plumbing & Gas

07 347 8655 (Rotorua) rotorua@bopplumbingandgas.co.nz 07 323 9252 (Kawerau) kawerau@bopplumbingandgas.co.nz 00800 247 LEAK (Emergency) www.bopplumbingandgas.co.nz

Chemwash Cleaning

Your ultimate home exterior maintenance programme Chemwash Cleaning was formed in 1981, with the goal to utilise low pressure and environmentally-friendly detergents in the exterior house cleaning industry.

Local house wash and exterior clean experts Chemwash saw the benefits of offering customers a subscription-based maintenance programme. So, the team came up with a scheduled maintenance concept where customers can 'set and forget' and outsource their exterior cleaning tasks.

Regularly cleaning a property's exterior prevents nature from taking over and deteriorating the structure. Mildew and mould, once it gets hold, can damage paint.

A professional building wash can also rid its exterior of spider webs, eggs and the mess they leave behind.

Safely clean your home with a Chemwash house wash, letting your home shine.

Don’t damage expensive surfaces around your home with potentially abrasive water blasting. The revolutionary Chemwash system uses specially-formulated products to ease away dirt, grime, build-up, grease and soot – without risk of damage.

Payment options include a subscriptionbased monthly or quarterly payment or pay up front and receive a discount!

No more worrying about those manky windows or mouldy exterior walls while you’re trying to relax outside. Having friends or family over for a barbeque? You don’t have to spend your whole weekend making the house look presentable.

Instead, choose your programme of exterior home services, or let Chemwash customise a plan for you. Its friendly team will visit every three months and it offers roof treatments, pest control, house washing, window cleaning and more.

Let Chemwash protect and prolong the life of your most valuable asset, your home – leaving you to enjoy your precious time off. quotes@chemwashcleaning.co.nz 0508 CHEMWASH

Local house wash and exterior clean experts Chemwash saw the benefits of offering customers a subscription -based maintenance programme. So, the team came up with a scheduled maintenance concept where customers can 'set and forget' and outsource their exterior cleaning tasks.

Its unique detergents were developed by a leading industrial chemist to be effective and safe for use in the environment as well as around the house, pets and people.

Chemwash continues to grow and develop, improving its detergents and processes as time goes on.

For instance, whether you are finding it difficult to maintain your property due to ageing, or you just don’t have time to spend your weekends up a ladder, a scheduled home maintenance programme could be just the thing.

Before.

After.

BUILDING WASHING AND EXTERIOR COMMERCIAL CLEANING First impressions count, no matter what industry you’re in.

Whether your business occupies one small storefront or multiple large buildings, Chemwash can help keep your premises looking sharp. Get in touch with New Zealand’s building washing experts, we can provide a personalised quote to suit your needs and budget.

WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES & COMPETITIVE CONTRACTS

Contact us now for your free, no-obligation quote.

PHONE 0508 243 692

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EMAIL quotes@chemwashcleaning.co.nz

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www.chemwashcleaning.co.nz www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 111

Health & Safety Training

Scholarships supporting tomorrow’s health and safety leaders

Workers must be competent or directly supervised when operating cranes

Each year, Site Safe supports the construction health and safety leaders of tomorrow by awarding scholarships to complete their Health and Safety in Construction programme.

WorkSafe New Zealand is warning businesses that it is unacceptable to allow staff to operate cranes and other machinery without direct supervision or appropriate training.

Upon completion, students receive a New Zealand Certificate in Workplace Health and Safety (Level 3), with guidance provided by a mentor for the duration of their journey.

The Health and Safety in Construction programme provides students with essential health and safety training required to make a difference in the workplace. The path taken by students is flexible, with only two mandatory courses comprising approximately one third of the total programme requirements.

The scholarship programme has been running since 2016 and has seen many successful students progress to become health and safety leaders within the construction industry.

With five categories open for entrants, Site Safe’s aim is to encourage active participation in health and safety in construction across a broad demographic. The categories are: Under 25 Years Old; Maori; Pasifika; Women in Construction; and Open.

The numbers of scholarships awarded each year varies, with a record 62 scholarships

ROGMAR LOGISTICS LTD.

distributed in 2020 across the five categories.

The significant increase on prior years was a demonstration of the ongoing commitment Site Safe has to the sector throughout a challenging period.

All potential applicants are encouraged to submit an application, as Site Safe looks to continue their support of the next crop of health and safety leaders in construction.

To further add prestige and appeal to the scholarships, recipients are invited to Site Safe’s Evening of Celebration when they graduate. Forming a key part of the annual gala event, the graduation ceremony is a chance for scholarship recipients to gain recognition and accolades from their peers and the wider construction industry.

All potential applicants are encouraged to submit an application, as Site Safe looks to continue their support of the next crop of health and safety leaders in construction.

Applications for scholarships are currently open, and close at 5pm, 31st August 2021.

RML is a New Zealand recognised and registered Training and Assessment Company based in Welligton. Operating since 2002 RML has been working with industry throughout New Zealand to provide flexible training and assessment services to Companies using cranes and lifting equipment. Our knowledge and expertise lays in providing training and assessment services in the safe use of the following:

• Wheels, Tracks & Rollers (US 16701, 16702, 16703) • Lifting, placing loads with mobile plant (US 20875) • Stevedoring Operations • Truck Mounted Cranes • Mobile Cranes / Non Slewing Articulated Cranes • Lattice Boom Crawler Cranes / Hydraulic Boom Crawler Cranes • Mini Crawler Cranes • Tower Cranes • Telehandlers • Remote Controlled Overhead Cranes / Cab Controlled Overhead Cranes • Slinging and Lifting of Regular Loads / Complex Loads • Elevated Work Platforms • Manual Handling Courses

For more information, Contact Roger Sullivan Mobile: 021 610 939 | Email: roger@rml.training

Proud Member of the Crane Association of New Zealand

The warning comes after a fatal incident in Christchurch in January 2020.

An employee at Glaziers Choice Limited, trading as Stake Glass, was crushed by a pack lifter crane implement which was attached to a 2.5 tonne pack of glass.

The overhead gantry crane was controlled by a handheld remote control, and the employee had climbed up the pack lifter to hook the crane hook onto it.

WorkSafe’s investigation found that the victim, who was training to use the crane, used it at times without direct supervision and at the time of the incident was completely unsupervised.

The business also had a generic and incomplete health and safety system and its risk register was inadequate.

The investigation also found that crane implements should not be left attached to a load.

WorkSafe Area Investigation Manager, Steve Kelly says that this situation could have been completely avoided if the

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

“This is a situation that reinforces the need for proper health and safety systems to be in place. Employees that are not competent in operating machinery must be effectively supervised.”

WorkSafe reminds businesses and employees that unsafe use of crane equipment presents significant risk potential for people and property. WorkSafe provide a number of resources for businesses using cranes, including an approved code of practice – Cranes | WorkSafe.

The company was sentenced on Thursday 1 July at the Christchurch District Court.

A fine of $270,000 was imposed.

Reparation of $110,000 was ordered to be paid to the victim’s family.

RML Ltd Based in Wellington, RML Ltd offers training and assessment services for New Zealand’s crane industry. Specialising in training at the operational level, RML is the leading expert in all things regarding not only cranes but also construction, warehousing, ports and stevedoring industries.

RML was founded in 2002, but its expertise has been built up over 40 years of its staff working in and with these industries at both operational and management levels.

• Manual handling courses • Elevated work platform assessments.

Practical onsite training and assessment packages include:

RML guarantees competitive pricing and a safety-first approach on all courses and is an accredited assessor with MITO, Skills ITO and Connexis ITO.

• Wheels, tracks, rollers unit standard accreditation

RML Ltd is a proud member of the Crane Association of New Zealand.

• U.S 31245 – Plan for and lift and place loads using mobile plant

ROGER SULLIVAN 19 Argentine Avenue Miramar, Wellington 6022 Mobile: 021 610 939 Email: roger@rml.training and/or rogmarlog@gmail.com

• U.S 23637 – Operate a telehandler • All unit standards covering cranes/dogman courses to level 4 certification

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employee had been properly supervised while he was being trained and if the pack lifter was stored without a load attached.

Education & Upskilling

Government initiatives contribute to fall in benefit numbers As the economy continues to recover post Covid, the New Zealand Government has announced its initiatives are working, following a growing increase in the number of people coming off the benefit and going into employment.

This comes as a welcomed result after the New Zealand Herald reported in September 2020 that showed young job seekers ages 18-24 were hit hardest by COVID 19.

In September 2020 the NZ Herald reported that data from the Ministry of Social Development showed the number of 18-19-year-olds on the Job Seeker Work Ready allowance went from 5970 in August 2019 to 11,105 in August 2020, which was an increase of 5135 young people on the benefit – or a rise of 86 percent.

“This Government’s plan to increase work focused support for Jobseekers is paying off,” Minister for Social Development, Carmel Sepuloni says.

“All up, benefit numbers fell 11,193 over the June quarter, there are now 354,744 people receiving a Main Benefit, with 110,790 people receiving a Job Seeker Work Ready Benefit.

“Most of this fall comes on the back of another big month for people moving off a benefit and into employment.

Changes to main benefit rates On the first of July 2021, the main benefit rate increased by $20 (after tax), per adult, per week as part of the 2021 Budget.

A second increase will occur on April 1 next year that will see main benefits lifted in line with a key WEAG recommendation. Families and whānau with children will also receive a further $15 per adult per week.

In total, weekly main benefit rates will increase by between $32 and $55 per adult by 1 April 2022.

“While we have been successful in getting those, who have recently lost their jobs back into work, what is pleasing with today’s statistics is that nearly 10,000 people who have been receiving a benefit for over a year found work in the June quarter,” Carmel says.

“Our recovery is creating jobs and getting New Zealanders back to work but we are also partnering with industry to ensure businesses are getting the skills they need.

“Some of the most successful programmes include Flexi-Wage which has seen 4,782 people placed into employment since it was expanded in February, and Apprenticeship Boost which now has supported 30,031 people into a trade.

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What is the main benefit?

Jobseeker Support is for people who can usually look for or prepare for work. It also includes people who can only work part-time or cannot look for work at the moment (e.g. they have a health condition, injury, or disability).

Main benefits for those of working age (aged 18–64 years) include: Jobseeker Support (JS), Sole Parent Support (SPS), Supported Living Payment (SLP), Youth Payment and Young Parent Payment (YP/YPP), Emergency Benefit (EB), Emergency Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Jobseeker Support Student Hardship (JSSH), Widow’s Benefit Overseas (WBO), and Sole Parent Support Overseas (SPSO).

“Around 31,240 people left a benefit last quarter for a job, the second highest number of people finding work since records began.

“The statistics released today buck the seasonal trend which usually sees a rise in benefit numbers over the June Quarter.

The size of the fall over the June quarter is a significant milestone in our recovery from COVID-19.

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possible into work. Over previous Budgets we have invested heavily in work focused case management; initiatives include: • 263 new frontline staff in Budget 2019 to help people into work • Invested $150m in Budget 2020 to help people into work • Invested a further $99m in work focused case management and services in Budget 2021 • Invested $86m to sustain the additional frontline work focused staff we employed through COVID-19.

“I encourage all businesses who are looking for workers to contact MSD. There are subsidies available to help you with the cost of training employees,” Carmel says.

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“I’ve been particularly impressed by the results from the Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs with 1,326 sustainable full-time jobs created across regional New Zealand.

“We know that there are jobs available in the market right now, and we remain focused on supporting as many New Zealanders as www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 113

Education & Upskilling

Training opportunities abound in construction - enrol now for 2022 There’s never been a better time to retrain or upskill in preparation to enter the construction and building sector, according to Doug Rodgers, Head of Faculty – Trades and Technology, at Southern Institute of Technology (SIT).

“With the Government’s investment and focus on infrastructure in response to COVID-19, there are many opportunities for retraining and getting into a high-paying career in the construction and building sector,” he said.

To support New Zealand’s recovery from the impacts of COVID-19, the Government announced a free training initiative last year, through the Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF). The fund is available across a range of subjects, specifically focusing on sectors with possible skill shortages, and where employers are looking to utilise graduates to meet the demand in those industries.

Some of SIT’s most popular programmes are available to study now under TTAF:

Invercargill Campus

SIT’s close collaborations with industry result in producing qualifications that are clearly focused on graduates achieving employment outcomes at the completion of their study.

SIT’s Faculty of Trades and Technology offers a variety of qualifications in Construction and Building, with the TTAF selection of programmes covering all apprenticeships and levels 3 - 6 sub-degree programmes. This completely free training is available until 31st December 2022.

As an added benefit, students enrolling for full-time training under TTAF or Fees Free at SIT Invercargill, are also eligible for up to 40 weeks of accommodation bursaries with FREE SIT accommodation, OR $100 per week paid out to students towards accommodation expenses. Check it out today to discover an even more affordable way to achieve a qualification, without incurring a large student loan!

114 | B&C - Issue #130

• New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology • New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Quantity Surveying) (Level 6) • New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Civil Engineering major) • New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering major) • National Certificate in Carpentry (Level 4) • New Zealand Certificate in Commercial Road Transport (Heavy Vehicle Operator) • New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Level 3) - Carpentry • New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Level 3) - Joinery • New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory • New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering.

Christchurch Campus • New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Level 3) - Carpentry • New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory • New Zealand Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (Trade Assistant).

Queenstown Campus • New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Level 3) - Carpentry.

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Aside from saving thousands of dollars, there’s a raft of other great reasons to choose SIT for your study: Programmes are designed with employment in mind - SIT’s close collaborations with industry result in producing qualifications that are clearly focused on graduates achieving employment outcomes at the completion of their study. Flexible and responsive to the needs of the community, SIT creates learning opportunities to meet the requirements of a changing workforce.

“All of SIT’s programmes are designed in consultation with industry to meet the huge demand in the construction industry.

Industry told us what they needed from graduates, and we designed our certificate, diploma and degree programmes around those needs.” said Mr Rodgers.

Supportive learning environment - SIT graduates frequently comment on how well they were supported during their time studying. This comes in the form of great facilities, easy access to tutors, student nurse, counsellors, student leisure areas, and more. Everything has been set in place to help you succeed with your study goals.

The best gear anywhere - SIT students train with cutting-edge technology, producing graduates well-equipped with

current and desirable skills to enter the workforce. The continued priority to invest in technology ensures SIT students receive one of the most contemporary education experiences currently available anywhere in NZ. Choose SIT, you know you want to! - At SIT we believe it’s all about the people.

Enrol now for 2022 and discover southern hospitality in the caring, supportive learning environment of our campuses.

Choose the future you want for yourself.

Here’s some remarks from those who chose SIT (and couldn’t be happier!).

“Since completing the pre-trade joinery course, I am pleased to say I have started my apprenticeship at Pooles Joinery. I highly recommend this course, not only did I gain skills and knowledge, but I also gained the confidence that has led to a new career path.”

- Nicola, Joinery graduate “Studying at SIT gives me real-world, practical work knowledge, it’s been much better than other studies where I did 99% theory and haven’t used it even once.”

– Yogesh, Carpentry graduate Phone 0800 4 0 FEES (0800 40 3337), or look out for the TTAF logo on more programmes on the SIT website: www. sit.ac.nz/Fees-Enrolments/TTAF-No-Fees

Education & Upskilling

RETRAIN, UPSKILL OR START AFRESH! STUDY SUB-DEGREE COURSES AT NO COST

Take advantage of the government’s Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF) and study sub-degree courses at no cost.

SIT also offers Accommodation Bursaries for those training in Invercargill under the TTAF.

SIT offers a wide range of Diplomas and Certificates in: ↘ Architectural Technology

↘ Joinery

↘ Carpentry

↘ Mechanical Engineering

↘ Civil Engineering

↘ Quantity Surveying

↘ Electrical Engineering

ENROL NOW FOR 2022 www.sit.ac.nz I 0800 4 0 FEES

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Issue #130 - B&C | 115

Building Down South

Making homeownership in Queenstown affordable Homeownership in Queenstown has never been more affordable thanks to the Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust’s [QLCHT] ground-breaking assisted ownership model, Secure Home.

Three years after signing a contract for 50 of the 78 units in the Toru development at Remarkables Park, Frankton, the project has been completed and QLCHT took possession of its units earlier this year.

The QLCHT is allocating Secure Home units to 25 households from its waiting list, with prices starting from just $200,000 for onebedroom units.

QLCHT executive officer, Julie Scott says average one-bed units are selling for $220,000 and two-bedroom unit prices average $320,000.

“Team these sale prices up with a deposit requirement of just five percent, for those who qualify for the Government’s First Home Loan, and it makes these units the most affordable method of home ownership in Queenstown at present,” she says.

Households also pay a ground rent of one percent on the “land” value component of the property which averages about $40-$50 per week.

A typical one-bedroom apartment purchaser will end up paying a total of about $200 per week for mortgage repayments, ground rent and body corporate fees, Julie says.

“Two-hundred dollars per week to own your own home is a no-brainer compared to the same amount to rent a room in a flatting situation.”

the Government last year, as part of its bid to increase alternative forms of home ownership around the country.

On top of this, other outgoings such as electricity and heating are expected to be very low due to the highly insulated design of the building.

A further 15 units are going into public housing, while a handful are being sold on the open market and the balance are being retained as affordable rentals or rent-to-buy units with the Trust.

The Secure Home units at Toru attracted an interest-free loan of $6.35 million from

The first of its kind in New Zealand, Secure Home is a programme where people

purchase the properties through a 100-year land lease arrangement, with the Trust retaining ownership of the land in perpetuity.

Established to manage and deliver affordable housing solutions to residents who cannot afford it, QLCHT has several programmes in place to help low-moderate income households including public housing, assisted rental, rent-to-buy, and assisted ownership.

Ladies Mile masterplan faces public concerns The over 500 submissions received on the draft Te Pūtahi Ladies Mile Masterplan and associated planning rules have now been published on the Queenstown Lakes District Council website.

The feedback indicates that 86 percent of respondents do not support or have concerns regarding the draft Masterplan and Planning rules that have been presented in the recent round of community engagement.

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) general manager of planning and development, Tony Avery says the project team would be carefully analysing the feedback in full before presenting final Masterplan and Planning rules to the Council for consideration.

“The feedback has clearly shown that many people responding have concerns about what has been proposed.

PH 03 471 9537 EMAIL glass@glasscity.co.nz WEBSITE glasscity.co.nz

116 | B&C - Issue #130

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“The project team now needs to reflect on that and ensure these concerns are balanced alongside the original goals and aspirations in undertaking this process.

“Acknowledging that private development may not deliver the best outcomes for a growing community, the project aimed to deliver highly efficient land use, a quality

street network, and promote sustainable living, local facilities and sense of place.”

Some of the key themes raised through the feedback include: • Concerns about traffic congestion (including bridge capacity/upgrades, queuing times, and alternative routes west) • Support for improved public and active transport opportunities however this was paired with scepticism as to whether this would improve traffic issues in this area • Opposition to proposed high density housing and proposed building heights, while also supporting the need for more housing choice and affordable options • Whether development was appropriate in this location • Support for additional facilities such as schools, community facilities, green open space and commercial services • General support for utilising existing zones with amendments to the rules as required • General concerns regarding lack of flexibility in a number of key planning rules and the impact that these may have on development outcomes.

“Every piece of feedback received through this process will be carefully considered and be reported to the councillors, alongside all other contributory factors, as they consider what the next steps will be for this proposal and its impact on our community and the future of development in the Wakatipu Basin.”

Building Down South

Queenstown roading project approved An expert consenting panel has approved the Queenstown Arterials Project, which will significantly improve transport links and reduce congestion for locals and visitors in the tourism hotspot.

Environment Minister David Parker welcomed the approval for the project that will construct, operate and maintain a new urban road around Queenstown’s town centre.

“Traffic congestion has been a long-standing problem for Queenstown, and needs to be addressed as the city continues to grow and tourism recovers post-COVID-19.

“This project will help future-proof the city and contribute to a much safer, more climate-friendly transport network,” he says.

It will include cycling and walking connections, which will reduce reliance on private vehicles and encourage more lowemissions modes of transport.

Project consultants expect the project to provide 477 direct full time equivalent job and 702 indirect job opportunities during the construction period.

“Through the construction phase this project will create jobs and support the local economy, which has been hard-hit by the impact of the pandemic on international travel,” David says.

“This project meets the requirements under the fast-track consenting process – getting people into jobs, supporting the transition to low emissions and boosting local economies,” David Parker said.

The COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track Consenting) Act 2020 is one of the Government’s levers to boost jobs, speed up infrastructure development and improve environmental outcomes in response to the economic impacts of COVID-19.

The decision took 67 working days from the time the application was lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

That is significantly faster than the time it takes for a similar consent under the Resource Management Act 1991 consenting process.

The approval was granted by an expert consenting panel chaired by barrister Heather Ash.

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Issue #130 - B&C | 117

Physical and Mental Health

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

The course will equip attendees with the skills and knowledge to support their own mental health and assist others to do the same

After commissioning a 2019 report on suicided in construction with BRANZ, Site Safe began looking at ways to understand and offer practical assistance to those in the industry dealing with mental health issues.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Has your business demonstrated innovation and leadership in health, safety, and wellbeing?

Don’t be an unsung hero of health and safety – shout it from the rooftop!

Applications for our 2021 Construction Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Awards are now open. With five categories available to enter, these awards are a great opportunity to get recognition for the positive steps you are taking towards a safer and healthier industry.

Get recognised! Enter now! Entries close 2 September 2021. Visit sitesafe.org.nz for more info.

118 | B&C - Issue #130

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Physical and Mental Health

Few builders are spared from pain on the job CHASNZ Ergonomics Team surveyed 100 builders at the 2021 NZ Certified Builders Conference and asked them, “Do you have any current discomfort, pain or injury?.

• Poor fitness/Core strength (17).

Builders were asked to indicate where on their body they experienced the problem by placing a dot on the body part effected.

• Lack of breaks (5).

The findings

• Using manual handling devices (eg Gib lifter) – 5

Psychosocial factors: • Stress of business (4) • Management support and care (3).

Work Organisation: • Lack of teamwork/working alone (5)

Practical preventative measures used:

A staggering 97 percent of builders reported that they had current discomfort, pain or injury.

More than 50 percent of these reports were for lower back problems which was the site of most concern, regardless of age, indicating that this problem may be occurring earlier on in a builder's career and many are managing the condition while still working.

Other pain sites included:

• Keeping fit (eg regular Yoga) – 15 • Use of shoulder supports for tool belts – 9 • Change work boots every six months – 4 • Use of knee pads – 3 “Many Builders reported more than one site of pain effecting them on a regular basis with most people having developed long-term management strategies to continue working.

“Sadly, to some degree pain was viewed as a foregone conclusion to a career in building.”

• Knees - 24 reports • Shoulders - 17 reports • Wrists - 11 reports • Neck - 10 reports • Elbows - 9 reports • Ankles - 4 reports.

Chris Polaczuk from CHASNZ was surprised at the high incidence of pain amongst builders of all ages and stages of their career.

Contributing factors

• Regular treatments (eg Chiropractic) – 4

When asked what they thought was contributing to their problems, several common themes emerged:

• Warming up in the morning – 5

Physical factors:

CHASNZ is working with NZ Certified Builders to address strains and sprains in the industry.

On a positive note, many builders viewed these problems as being preventable.

• Weight and design of tools (8 mentions)

Rachel Brooke from CHASNZ says, “One thing I heard mentioned several times by older builders was saying ‘if I knew then what I know now about building, I would have far less pain problems’ which gives us hope that we can pass on these learnings onto our apprentices.”

• Heavy manual handling and lack of equipment (6)

• Weight of tool belts (12)

• Footwear (4).

Individual factors: • Previous sports injury (4)

• Choice of tools – 3.

“We are looking for builders to participate in our current research project looking to identify what’s currently being done by builders to prevent these problems.”

If you would like to contribute to this research, please contact Chris Polaczuk by emailing chrisp@chasnz.org, or text your details to 022 097 3144.

Commerical & Residential Construction

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Issue #130 - B&C | 119

Clubs NZ

A hub of the community Local clubs, such as RSAs, can be a home away from home for its members – a place of community, of support and of comradeship for members in the area.

They provide a warm and welcoming venue for the local community. You can pop on down and enjoy the restaurant, bar, live entertainment, sports and social groups, or just meet up with friends and family in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Regular live entertainment, happy hours, dances, gaming machines, sports groups, big screen sports and much more make local clubs a fantastic destination for people of all ages.

Clubs New Zealand Clubs New Zealand is the leading association for clubs in New Zealand, with more than 280,000 people belonging to its member clubs.

The Mission of Clubs New Zealand is to promote and safeguard the interests, rights and privileges of member clubs and

supports member clubs through guidance and education to help generate benefits and services to assist them in becoming successful commercial businesses.

It has a responsibility to all those who served their country, irrespective of whether or not they are members of the RSA. The RSA was formed on the 28th April in 1916 to care for the needs of soldiers returning from WW1, to assist the families of those soldiers who lost their lives.

For more information, visit: www.clubsnz.org.nz.

About the RNZRSA The Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association is a service organisation.

It is one of the largest voluntary welfare organisations in New Zealand and one of the longest established ex-service organisations in the world.

The current membership of the RSA is more than 103,000. The organisation offers friendship, goodwill and fellowship where members and guests can socialise and enjoy one another’s company in a safe environment.

For more information, visit: www.rsa.org.nz

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable social club with live music and great food

308 Victoria Street, Hastings | E: info@clubshastings.co.nz | P: 06 878 8808 120 | B&C - Issue #130

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www.clubshastings.co.nz

Clubs NZ

Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club The Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club is your local community Club where you will always get a friendly welcome.

The Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club is a warm, welcoming club in the heart of the Papatoetoe Community. If you are looking for a friendly place to catch up with friends to celebrate good times and have a great meal, then the Papatoetoe Cossie Club is the place to be. This cossie club welcomes new members, all current members and their guests, and visitors from affiliated clubs. Become a member today and don’t miss out on any of the opportunities the club has to offer.

Facilities Catering and hospitality are an integral part of the service available at the Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club facilities. If you need a venue with a bit of everything, the club can tailor its services to meet your needs.

•

Restaurant: The restaurant is a relaxing private area for birthdays, weddings, engagements, anniversaries and much more. It comfortably holds up to 250 people and can be decorated to your specifications. A wide range of onsite food options are available, and a small band can entertain in the corner.

•

Bar: The bar is open from 12pm until close throughout the year for members, affiliated members and guests. We have all major sporting games playing on the big screen, membership draws, raffles and much more.

• TAB: For all your betting requirements we provide a full TAB service area, TAB Pod and five screens •

Gaming: Do not miss out on playing your favourite game of chance on one of the Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club’s 16 gaming machines

•

Lounge: Dance the night away on the “best dance floor in Auckland”. Enjoy professional entertainment, top bar facilities and excellent meals and snacks in our large entertainment lounge. Seating up to 200 people, it is the venue where your dream wedding can become a reality, or you can relax whilst the cossie club ensures your corporate event, or birthday celebration runs smoothly. The club’s wide selection of menus and onsite catering offers you affordable packages to suit each budget. Whatever your function, the club’s aim is to provide exceptional service to ensure your day is a huge success

•

Facilities/training: The cossie club offers a tailored service to businesses looking to support their community through training, or hosting meetings. The club offers a private boardroom, projector, screen, whiteboards – whatever you need.

The lounge is very popular with large corporate events during the day

•

Bistro: A full range of meals and snacks all prepared by the club’s amazing chef Vinesh and his fantastic team. Do not forget to check out the weekly specials on the Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club Facebook page.

The Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club is more than you’re your local cossie club – the team is in the business of creating unforgettable functions and making your celebratory experiences more special.

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

Issue #130 - B&C | 121

Clubs NZ

• • • •

Indoor Bowls Fishing 8 Ball Snooker

• • • •

Golf Darts Big Screen TVs TAB

Membership starting at $30 a year

OPEN 7 DAYS 18 Gaming Machines Housie Thursday afternoon / Restaurant Tuesday - Sunday Buffet: Friday evenings & Sunday lunch / Piranis Restaurant Free delivery on meals, Tuesday through to Saturday

22 Linton St, Palmerston North

Affiliated members, guests & visitors welcome

Timaru Town & Country Club A chartered club that houses the only golf course in the city, the Highfield golf course. We pride ourselves in having modern and hi-tech facilities that make the stay of our visitors more fun and memorable.

www.timaruclubs.co.nz

Phone 06 357 6022

P: 03 688 0025 E: admin@timaruclubs.co.nz

E: admin@pncossieclub.co.nz W: www.pncossieclub.co.nz

99 Douglas Street, Highfield, Timaru

www.facebook.com/PNCossieclub

Situated in the heart of Kaiapoi, offering a great range of dining, social, entertainment, facilities and groups.

• Two Large Open Area Bars (Featuring regular entertainment) • Bottle Store (Members Only) • TAB (Full Service) • Sky Television • Pool & Snooker Tables • 18 Gaming Machines • Bistro & Restaurant • Function & Meeting Rooms

113 Raven St, Kaiapoi Ph: 03 327 7884 E: info@kaiapoiclub.co.nz

We offers a wide range of events and entertainment, along with excellent bar, restaurant, and function facilities to members and guests.

Our members belong to a variety of Sections and enjoy sporting and community activities together.

bout Find out a a becoming e G f or member o try oun Town & C y.

Club toda

2 Bury Street, Gore CLUB 03 208 4623 • RESTAURANT 03 208 9039

www.kaiapoiclub.co.nz 122 | B&C - Issue #130

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www.goretcclub.co.nz

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“MJS15”

MYJOBSPACE.CO.NZ

You can either buy 1 ad (for 1 month) for $137+gst or unlimited ads for 12 months for $997+gst 100% money back guarantee if you don’t think it’s the best money you’ve spent all year, plus we’ll give you another 12 months FREE FREE access to search CVs – other companies charge thousands for this You can include your company profile so applicants can see why they want to work for you – once again, other companies charge for this.

PROUD

To be a finalist ONCE AGAIN in the last NetGuide Best Employment site category!

Connecting job hunters and employers since 2006 MYJOBSPACE.CO.NZ | 0800 486 329 | 38 LOWE ST, ADDINGTON, CHRISTCHURCH 8011, NEW ZEALAND

www.buildersandcontractors.co.nz

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