Elevate Bay Of Plenty Issue #1

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Western Bay of Plenty District Council looks ahead

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The Building and Construction Training Fund’s impact

Green Building Council on the future of sustainability

Maintaining geothermal for the next generations

Innovative outdoor heating solutions

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CONTENTS

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BAY OF PLENTY EDITION: 1 | 2025 | REF CODE #V25BP

8 Western Bay of

Plenty District Council looks ahead The new Long Term Plan forecasting the next decade

12 Celebrating

sector-wide success The Building and Construction Training Fund’s impact

20 Building green in 2025

Green Building Council on the future of sustainability

24 Ensuring sustainable

resource management Maintaining geothermal for the next generations

30 Should you build

with steel?

The pros and cons of steel frame homes

34 Is re-cladding always the right choice?

Refreshing your property’s exterior, the right way

38 Quake-prone builds get remediation extension Another pushback for the nation’s 5000+ subpar homes

42 Year-round warmth

Innovative outdoor heating solutions

12 20

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Welcome...

This issue of Elevate leads off looking at the Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s long-term plan for the coming decade.

In the first full year of implementing its strategy, we look at the Building and Construction Training Fund (BCTF), which has awarded over 55 scholarships to tradespeople who have completed advanced trade-related studies and provided governance training for over 100 directors from its member constituency.

We discuss the Building and Construction Training Fund’s impact, talk to the Green Building Council about the future of sustainability, and also delve into maintaining geothermal for future generations.

You’ll find articles discussing the pros and cons of steel-framed homes, how to refresh your property’s exterior the right way, innovative outdoor heating solutions and tips on how to work smarter, not just harder.

Enjoy.

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Western Bay of Plenty District Council looks ahead The Western Bay of Plenty District Council has adopted its 2024-2034 Long Term Plan, settling on an average rates increase of 13.47% for the 2024/25 year.

The plan focuses on striking a careful balance between delivering critical infrastructure, like clean

drinking water and safe roads, and the things that make the Western Bay a place where people can enjoy healthy communities, such as libraries, swimming pools and playgrounds, says Mayor James Denyer.

“Difficult economic conditions and rising costs meant we had to make some tough decisions,” Denyer says.

“Finding ways to cut costs without compromising services is always a challenge.

Repairing damage from severe

weather, upgrading roads, adhering to higher legislated standards for water assets and providing quality facilities all come at a significant cost.”

Despite this, the Council remains committed to completing significant, necessary and long-awaited infrastructure projects, including the permanent replacement of the No. 4 Road bridge in Te Puke, the new library and community hub in Waihī Beach, upgrades to the Dave Hume Pool in Katikati to make it better for users and extend its life, and prioritised major stormwater upgrades in Waihī Beach, he says.

However, unavoidable cost increases in areas like providing and maintaining roading, water supply and wastewater infrastructure meant the Council had to make reductions in other areas.

These included cuts to the cycleway budget, halting the Town Centre Development Fund, and looking at operational efficiencies.

During the consultation period, the Council received almost 600 submissions from individuals, organisations and businesses, which helped shape the plan and led to some changes, including increasing the roading rate differential, keeping Te Puna Station Road closed to vehicles, pushing out the proposed Community

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Facilities Fund and stopping the Pukehina Development Fund.

“Community feedback gave comfort to us, as decisionmakers, that we were on the right track with our key proposals, but we also acknowledge the differing views expressed.

“Thank you to everyone who took the time to share your views and contribute to shaping our future. As we move forward, we encourage you to stay connected with the Council and continue engaging with us.

“Going forward, we remain committed to careful budgeting and planning, as we navigate shifting government policies and evolving expectations, such as reforms in water management, resource management, climate change, and the future of local government – which could have significant implications for the size and shape of Council.”

And, while the plan sets out the Council’s goals for the next decade, it is not set in stone, he adds.

“We’ll be reviewing it in three years when the economic climate could be different – and hopefully more positive.

“There is always more mahi to do, but we are confident in our commitment and capability to achieve great things through this plan.”

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Celebrating success across the sector In the first full year of implementing its strategy, the Building and Construction Training Fund (BCTF) has awarded over 55 scholarships to tradespeople completing advanced trade-related study and provided governance training for over 100 directors from its member constituency.

BCTF is an umbrella association that represents 18 building and construction trade association members, which is focused on building capability across the industry by playing a lead role in advocacy around trade training as well as supporting access to ongoing development opportunities.

Chief executive Grant Florence says that as an organisation focused on capability-building beyond initial trade training, BCTF helps bridge an existing gap

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in the sector especially given the uncertainties from further reform of vocational education.

“Supporting tradies and other professionals in the construction sector to do advanced study not only helps lift standards across the sector but is also one of the ways that we can retain valuable experience in the industry, by helping them develop and potentially progress into new roles.

“Similarly, the governance training that we’ve been providing helps to build leadership skills in-house, ensuring that boards have the ability to think strategically about the future of the industry,” he says.

In 2024, BCTF has invested over $300,000 in its members’ governance training and scholarships for individuals undertaking NZQA Level 4 or above qualifications in specialist construction in a range of areas, such as Building Information Modelling, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Kitchen Design and Construction Law. BCTF has also supported initiatives to share best

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practices, such as developing best practice guidelines, and commenced a longer-term project to identify and map construction career pathways as an input to developing solutions to retain skilled tradespeople in the industry.

In 2024, BCTF:

“We’re doing what we can as an industry, but it’s also critical that the Government gets the latest round of vocational education and training reform right. We provided our feedback on the Government’s proposal for reform earlier in the year, sharing our view that the reform proposed does not go far enough to ensure that vocational education is truly industry-led to drive improved outcomes.

• Provided not-for-profit governance training to over 100 of the board members from BCTF’s members to support capability building in the wider construction and building sector

“This latest round of reform presents an opportunity to get things right, so BCTF is committed to ongoing engagement with Government to ensure the voice of industry, and ultimately learners in our sector, is heard.

In this context, BCTF would welcome further opportunities to engage with the Government on proposed VET reform prior to any decisions being made.

• Awarded over 55 scholarships to individual learners to undertake study related to their trade, through $160,000+ in scholarships

• Supported the development of best practice guidelines for the ceilings and cladding sector, and the tiling sector in New Zealand • Supported education and training activities at association members’ annual conferences and symposiums • Confirmed its support of ongoing health and safety practices and procedures for association members • Provided an industrywide response to the proposal for Vocational Education and Training reform.

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Building and Construction Training Fund appoints new CEO and board members

The Building and Construction Training Fund (BCTF) has appointed Brian Dillon as its new CEO, alongside two new Board members, Rob Gaimster and Brett Francis.

BCTF board chairperson Kieren Mallon says that the appointment of Mr Dillon, coupled with the appointment of two new board members representing specialist trade industries, reinforces BCTF’s commitment to capability building across the construction sector and is an important milestone for the organisation as it enters its second year of implementing its strategy.

“Brian brings extensive experience in the building and construction industry, as well as in-depth knowledge of vocational education in New Zealand.

“His skillset, along with strong industry relationships, will enable BCTF to continue shaping the future of the New Zealand construction industry through advocating for a vocational education system that meets industry

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needs, sharing best practice and supporting ongoing skills development.

“We would also like to acknowledge and sincerely thank Grant Florence for his tenure as interim chief executive of BCTF and his ongoing commitment to the industry which is reflected in the fact that he will remain on the Board going forward as a co-opted director of BCTF. Grant has been instrumental in developing and implementing BCTF’s strategy to date,” Kieren says.

Brian Dillon has over 25 years of experience in vocational education and construction-related roles, including most recently as National Ako Network Director (Construction & Infrastructure) at Te Pūkenga, and as the Faculty Dean at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology. He holds an MBA from the University of Waikato.

Additions to the Board include Rob Gaimster, and Brett Francis. Both Mr Gaimster and Mr Francis represent specialist trades within the construction industry.

Mr Gaimster is currently Chief Executive of Concrete New Zealand, and previously sat on the BCITO Board and BCTF Board during the time of its initial formation.

Mr Francis is the Chief Executive of the Window and Glass Association of New Zealand.

“With these new appointments, BCTF is poised to continue playing a lead role in advocacy around capability building in the trades, and we look forward to continuing to support initiatives to lift standards in the industry,” Kieren says.

All four, Brian Dillon, Rob Gaimster, Brett Francis and Grant Florence, will take up their new positions in February.

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Building green in 2025

By Ben O’Connell and NZGBC

The built environment is responsible for around 20% of New Zealand’s emissions, and the building sector works hard to reduce this figure.

Yet there’s always room for improvement. Going green can reduce development costs and improve sales and rental returns.

It has quite a big impact.

One report says that by enhancing building standards, phasing out gas, and increasing energy use transparency, New Zealand could reduce emissions by 93 million tonnes by 2050.

That’s equivalent to taking half of New Zealand’s petrol cars off the road and could save New Zealand almost $40 billion.

That report comes from the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC), which has a vision for all homes and buildings to be green and sustainable for happier, healthier New Zealanders.

Chief Executive Andrew Eagles is encouraged by the broader range of interest from a wider range of NZGBC clients in 2024. He says it’s not just office buildings after Green Star certifications but also build-to-rent properties, warehouses, retirement villages, and commercial properties generally.

Green Star has been used to certify thousands of

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buildings across Australasia.

Green Star sets minimum standards for a raft of things, such as low-carbon materials, energy and water efficiency, indoor air quality, adequate light, acoustic comfort and exposure to toxins. By establishing a clear, welldefined entry point for best practice, new heights in

and a 23% longer weighted average lease expiration, so reduced lease throughput.

For instance, sale prices for buildings certified to Green Star command a 5.8 to 9.8% premium, as research by JLL sets out. This research controlled for age, location and other factors.

Rental income and occupancy rates also improve with ratings.

term, which by 2050 should be home to six million people. New Zealand’s weather is changing. We are seeing more very hot days and heavier rainfall events.

The tools guide the industry in dealing with our changing weather. Temperatures are expected to rise to 1.2°C warmer by 2030 and 2.1°C warmer by 2050, with more hot days (over 25˚C), fewer windy days, and more irregular and intense rainfall patterns.

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The NZGBC tools don’t only deliver better energy bills. They help adapt to our changing weather. The Green Star tool helps to address decade-defining issues and looks to futureproof New Zealand’s built environment in the long

Green Star and Homestar help builders adapt to these conditions by designing in ways that reduce overheating and improve surface water run-off, reducing the impact of extreme weather events.

Our built environment must also withstand natural disasters, most of which were built before extreme weather was a major concern.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says that severe weather events are exacerbated by climate change and are the new normal. About 675,000 (or one in seven) people across Aotearoa live in floodprone areas, which amounts to over $100 billion worth of residential buildings.

Over 72,000 people live in areas at risk of storm surges, and like all of these statistics, the number of people exposed to these hazards is increasing. This is something the construction sector wants to get right, and perhaps NZGBC’s tools can assist the sector in doing so.

Cost is often seen as a major challenge to building green and improving existing builds. It can be a barrier to wider adoption and holds the general public back from truly embracing green building, but Andrew Eagles says it doesn’t need to be. “Smart design, lowcarbon materials, and higher performing systems don’t need to cost more and can be a better investment in the long term.” In the long term, green buildings have myriad cost savings. Greener, healthier buildings and homes save businesses and Kiwi families up to 40%.

A roadmap to improve existing homes Unfortunately, much of our nation’s ageing housing stock is unhealthy to live in.

One in six homes are mouldy, and one in five are damp.

The NZGBC just released its first-ever roadmap with recommendations to address poor housing, which is a key contributor to respiratory disease, affecting around one million Kiwis and costing the country $8.7 billion annually, money that could have been spent on healthier homes.

The roadmap includes a deep retrofit programme starting in 2025 with a pilot of 300 homes, expanding to 200,000 of the worstperforming homes. Whether the Government will heed the NZGBC’s roadmap is another question. Past government measures like Healthy Homes Standards and the Warmer Kiwi Homes Programme have helped in some ways but generally fall short of what’s needed to drive transformative change.

In fact, the NZGBC says the Government’s latest Emissions Reduction

Plan fails to empower the construction and property sectors to deliver any of the emissions savings that they are able to deliver. “While other sectors grapple for new technology and hope for future solutions, buildings and construction can do the work now,” Andrew says.

He adds that the Government has failed to take up some basic, affordable policy options in this latest plan, options that could deliver significantly toward hitting our emissions

green buildings come to the fore. In a relatively recent development, the big four banks and Kiwibank are now providing lower-interest development finance for those that are building to lower carbon standards.

Developers who choose to build to green-certified standards such as Homestar or Green Star can now save hundreds of thousands of dollars on finance costs. This is one of the reasons behind the sudden growth in the uptake of greener buildings.

The roadmap includes a deep retrofit programme starting in 2025 with a pilot of 300 homes, expanding to 200,000 of the worst-performing homes. Whether the Government will heed the NZGBC’s roadmap is another question. reduction targets, such as making energy use transparent, improving minimum building standards, reducing waste and phasing out fossil fuels. “Additionally, these policies would reduce energy bills for Kiwi families and businesses, create comfortable, healthier homes, reduce peak load on the electricity grid and reduce the need for expensive generation, and ultimately reduce the carbon offset burden which Treasury estimates could be as high as $23bn if we don’t meet our emission reduction commitments.”

From the recession and downturn in new builds to the national skilled labour shortage of about 50,000 workers, there are many challenges for the construction sector.

As material costs remain high and interest rates strain development budgets, developers are keen to find ways to save. This is where

Traction in green building Over 20,000 homes are being built to the Homestar standard. With the right policies and focus, New Zealand can lead the way in sustainable building.

In our post-pandemic, climate-changing world, the public demands healthier, greener homes and a built environment that benefits everyone.

Mandatory climate-related disclosures per the 2021 Act see over 200 New Zealand entities provide consistent information on what climate change might mean for them.

The NZGBC is proposing improvements to the Building Code so homes and buildings cost less to run and deliver for people. Improved energy efficiency thanks to better ventilation, heating, and lighting systems and water provision mark other recent steps towards this.

If the NZGBC gets their way, sustainable certifications

like the Green Star system won’t be needed: zerocarbon buildings and homes will be normal business.

For now, regulations won’t intensify further, with Building Minister Chris Penk ignoring MBIE officials’ advice to proceed with planned Building Code changes that would reduce waste, measure buildings’ carbon emissions, and give buildings energy efficiency ratings similar to what appliances have now. Penk instead opted for a voluntary approach, which NZGBC’s Andrew Eagles said paid climate change commitments “lip service” and put New Zealand behind the OECD for quality and sustainability.

Whether it’s low-carbon concrete, sustainable timber, or recyclable materials, the industry continues to outpace the Beehive in adopting green building practices. Beyond the increased use of these materials, Andrew notes an uptick in decarbonisation efforts like passive design principles, renewable energy, and circular economy practices in 2024.

Looking ahead, the NZGBC’s Green Property Summit 2025 and Housing Summit 2025 will continue to answer industry questions.

What are the newest green technologies and materials?

How does the industry adapt to evolving regulations?

How do we ensure green buildings are accessible to lower-income communities?

What makes a home truly green isn’t just about energy but also a complex mix of resource management, lifecycle emissions, health and societal outcomes, and the long-term impact felt by future generations.

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Ensuring sustainable resource management

Ensuring geothermal in the Bay of Plenty continues to be managed sustainably for current and future generations is at the heart of Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s proposed changes to the Regional Natural Resources Plan (RNRP).

Under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA), Regional Councils must review their Regional Natural Resources Plan every 10 years, to ensure it is fit for

management approach when it comes to geothermal.

“Geothermal is a critical part of our region’s economy, culture and heritage. Careful management is essential to ensuring the sustainable use of our region’s unique geothermal systems.

purpose and addresses current management challenges.

This review of the geothermal section of the Plan (Plan Change 11) will look at how this natural resource is being used and managed.

Namouta Poutasi, Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council General Manager of Strategy and Planning, says the release of the draft Plan Change 11 document clearly signals to the community the Regional Council’s preferred

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“The release of the draft document today enables communities across the region to provide feedback on our management approach before the formal notification of the Plan Change next year.”

As a part of Plan Change 11, the Regional Council is proposing changes that will help

balance the need to preserve the region’s geothermal features (such as geysers), with the sustainable use and development of geothermal across the rohe (region).

Proposed changes include a new policy for the protection of significant geothermal features, allocation limits for Ngā Wai Ariki o Rotorua – the Rotorua Geothermal System, and enabling use in Development Systems such as Kawerau.

The review also includes aligning several different plans that are used to manage geothermal, for example combining the geothermal objectives, policies and rules that are currently in the Regional Natural Resources Plan and the Rotorua Geothermal Regional Plan (RGRP) into a single geothermal

Proposed changes include a new policy for the protection of significant geothermal features, allocation limits for Ngā Wai Ariki o Rotorua – the Rotorua Geothermal System, and enabling use in Development Systems such as Kawerau.

As well as Plan Change 11, the Regional Council has also released a draft Tauranga Geothermal System Management Plan for feedback.

Western Bay of Plenty Districts (draft SMP under development).

The Tauranga Geothermal System Management Plan is an operational document that outlines how the Regional Council intends to manage this system.

System Management Plans (SMP) are required for systems of high use. In the Bay of Plenty, this includes Ngā Wai Ariki o Rotorua in central Rotorua (SMP adopted April 2024), the Kawerau Geothermal System (SMP under review), and the Tauranga Geothermal System which covers Tauranga and the

It will be used to inform the regional plan changes for both the geothermal and freshwater chapters of the Regional Resource Management Plan next year. This is because the Tauranga Geothermal System is a low-temperature system and is the warm part of the groundwater resource.

chapter in the Regional Natural Resources Plan.

This means the use of one resource affects the other and therefore, the two resources must be managed in an integrated way.

Ms Poutasi encourages anyone who wants to give feedback on both Plan Change 11 and the draft Tauranga Geothermal System Management Plan to make a submission.

“Managing our geothermal resource is going to take us all working together. We need to know what the community values, and balance this with the technical information we have, to ensure the sustainable use of this resource for current and future generations.”

Submissions closed Friday 31 January 2025.

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Should you build with steel?

Exploring the pros and cons of steel frame homes As housing trends shift towards more sustainable and durable approaches, steel frame homes are becoming an attractive alternative to traditional timber construction.

Steel’s resilience and versatility offer homeowners notable benefits, but as with any building material, it comes with its own set of challenges.

Whether you’re building from scratch or considering a steel-framed home, understanding both the pros and cons is important.

level of safety in areas that experience high temperatures.

The benefits of steel frame homes One of the top advantages of steel framing is its durability.

Unlike timber, steel doesn’t warp, rot, crack, or attract pests like termites and borers.

For areas more likely to experience high humidity or extreme weather, this durability

makes steel an attractive choice. Steel offers resistance to earthquakes, strong winds, and heavy snowfall, making it a reliable option for homes in New Zealand’s more challenging environments.

Another key benefit is fire resistance. Steel doesn’t combust, providing a higher

From an environmental perspective, steel is a sustainable choice. It’s 100% recyclable, and many steel frames are made from recycled materials, reducing their environmental footprint. During construction, steel frames produce less waste than timber, making them a cleaner, greener building option.

When it comes to design, steel offers flexibility and precision.

Prefabricated steel components are engineered to exact specifications, ensuring efficient construction with little room for error. Steel’s strength-to-weight

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ratio also allows for larger open-plan spaces and unique architectural features, such as floor-to-ceiling windows or curved walls, without sacrificing structural integrity.

Steel’s lightweight nature makes transportation and handling easier. This feature reduces construction time, especially when prefabricated elements are used, and it’s beneficial when building on challenging terrains or in remote areas.

The challenges of steel frame homes While steel frames offer durability and precision, the higher upfront cost can be a disadvantage. Steel is generally more expensive than timber, and its installation requires specialised skills and tools, which can drive up labour costs. For budgetconscious homeowners, this

initial investment may be discouraging, even if long-term savings on maintenance make up for it.

Another major challenge is thermal conductivity. Steel conducts heat and cold far more efficiently than timber, which can result in poor energy efficiency if the home isn’t adequately insulated. Without proper insulation, steel-framed homes can become too hot in summer and cold in winter, leading to increased heating and cooling costs.

In coastal or humid areas, steel can be vulnerable to rust and corrosion if not properly treated or maintained.

Modern steel frames include protective coatings to avoid this, but regular inspections are often needed to make sure the structure remains in good condition.

Steel frames can also pose issues with noise. Their stiffness can amplify sound vibrations, meaning rain, wind, or movement within the home may create more noise than in timber-framed structures.

Soundproofing solutions, like acoustic insulation, may needed to help with this.

Availability can be a limiting factor. In areas where timber is the dominant construction material, sourcing steel or finding contractors experienced in steel framing may be difficult, leading to project delays or higher costs. Retrofitting or modifying steel frames is also complex, as changes require specialised tools and expertise.

Steel frame homes offer benefits without a doubt: they are durable, fire-resistant, sustainable, and allow for flexible designs. However, these advantages must be

Steel’s resilience and versatility offer homeowners notable benefits, but as with any building material, it comes with its own set of challenges.

weighed against challenges like higher costs, energy efficiency concerns, and potential maintenance issues in certain climates. For homeowners seeking a long-lasting, lowmaintenance home – especially in areas prone to extreme weather – steel framing is a forward-thinking choice.

But, for those on tighterbudgets or planning future modifications, timber may remain the more practical option.

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33

Is re-cladding always the right choice?

Re-cladding is a popular solution for addressing issues like ageing exteriors or water damage, offering a fresh look and improved performance for residential properties.

However, while re-cladding has its benefits, it’s not

always the most practical or cost-effective option for every client or situation.

Knowing when and why to recommend—or advise against—re-cladding can make all the difference in delivering value and meeting client expectations.

The biggest appeal of re-cladding is its ability to refresh a property’s

appearance while resolving potential weather-tightness issues. For homes with ageing or damaged cladding, a full replacement provides a chance to modernise the exterior, boost curb appeal, and increase market value.

This is especially relevant here in New Zealand, where the leaky homes crisis highlighted the importance of durable,

well-installed cladding systems.

From a technical point of view, re-cladding can also uncover and address hidden issues, such as rotten framing, poor insulation, or inadequate moisture barriers. These issues, if left unchecked, can compromise the structural integrity of the building.

Re-cladding with modern materials can improve weather resistance and also provide an

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opportunity to install better insulation, meeting today’s building standards.

However, re-cladding isn’t without its challenges.

One of the most significant considerations is cost. For many clients, the expense of re-cladding can be a sticking point, especially if their budget is already stretched.

Material costs, labour, and the potential for unexpected complications, like hidden damage, can quickly push the project beyond its initial estimate. As a professional, it’s important to provide clients with a clear breakdown of costs and manage their expectations regarding possible contingencies.

Another factor to consider is the return on investment for the client. While re-cladding can boost the value of a

home, this isn’t guaranteed in every market. In some cases, particularly in lowervalue areas, the cost of the project might not translate into a worthwhile increase in property value. For construction professionals, this means guiding clients to carefully assess their goals—whether aesthetic, functional, or financial— before committing to such a large-scale project.

Re-cladding can also be more complex for heritage or architecturally significant properties. Maintaining the character of a home while upgrading its exterior requires specialised skills and materials, often resulting in higher costs and longer project durations. Navigating council regulations and ensuring compliance with local building codes can further

The biggest appeal of re-cladding is its ability to refresh a property’s appearance while resolving potential weather-tightness issues.

For homes with ageing or damaged cladding, a full replacement provides a chance to modernise the exterior, boost curb appeal, and increase market value. complicate the process.

In some cases, re-cladding may not address the underlying issues a home faces. For example, poor site drainage, design flaws, or inadequate ventilation might require more extensive work to resolve.

As the contractor, it’s your responsibility to assess the entire building and recommend the most effective solution, even if that means suggesting alternatives to re-cladding.

Ultimately, re-cladding is only one tool in a construction professional’s arsenal, but it’s not a universal fix. It’s essential to approach each project with a thorough understanding of the property’s condition, the client’s goals, and the potential challenges.

By balancing these factors and offering clear, expert guidance, you can ensure that re-cladding, when chosen, delivers the results your clients expect and deserve.

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37

Quake-prone builds get remediation extension

By Ben O’Connelll

To give time for a review into better managing the risks of quake-prone buildings, new legislation has changed the timeframes building owners have to complete strengthening work.

The Building (Earthquakeprone Building Deadlines and Other Matters) Amendment Act came into effect on 26

November 2024 and includes an extension of four years on remediation deadlines for earthquake-prone buildings, strengthening of the building warrant of fitness scheme and other minor technical changes.

This applies to buildings whose deadlines hadn’t lapsed before 2 April 2024.

“The earthquake-prone building system attempts to manage risk by requiring earthquake-prone buildings to be remediated before set timeframes. However, the

system is not working as well as it could, and the reality is many buildings are not getting remediated,” says Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk.

“Many building owners are unable to meet deadlines due to high remediation costs and an excessive layering of regulations.

“The current system lacks clarity, and some owners are stuck in impossible situations, where they can’t move

forward with the remediation but equally struggle to sell and move on with their lives.

“This is why we have acted with urgency to bring forward the review to provide certainty and ensure we get a good balance between protecting lives and real-world costs.”

Yet another pushback Penk says there are over five thousand quake-prone buildings nationwide, many not remediated because complying with the

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regulations is too complicated and expensive.

The extensive review will be reported before July 2025 with a focus on the cost of mitigating quake risk and improving building resilience, incentives that would help building owners better manage seismic risk, and housing and economic growth aligning with broader Government objectives.

“The terms of reference published today demonstrate the Government’s commitment to ensuring we get the balance right between public safety and costs to building owners,” Chris Penk says.

“The Government is focused on reinvigorating our cities and regions to support economic growth. Buildings sitting empty and abandoned

for months, or, in many cases, years, are bad for everyone.

Empty, derelict buildings can be dangerous, but they are also a handbrake on growth and development and can suck the life out of a town or city.”

A building is considered earthquake-prone if an engineering analysis shows it is 33% or less of the new building standard. In essence, this means the building has a seismic capacity of less than one-third of the level required for a new building.

Our earthquake potential New Zealand’s position along the boundary of the Indo-Australian and Pacific tectonic plates results in significant seismic activity.

Each year, the country experiences over 20,000 earthquakes, with 150 to 200 of these being strong enough to be felt.

The National Seismic Hazard Model (NSHM) provides detailed estimates of the likelihood and strength

The Building (Earthquake-prone Building Deadlines and Other Matters) Amendment Act came into effect on 26 November 2024 and includes an extension of four years on remediation deadlines for earthquake-prone buildings, strengthening of the building warrant of fitness scheme and other minor technical changes.

of earthquake shaking across New Zealand. The 2022 revision of the NSHM indicates an increased seismic hazard throughout most of the country, with some areas experiencing more than double the previously estimated hazard levels.

A notable concern is the Alpine Fault, which runs along the western edge of the South Island. Studies estimate a 75% probability of a significant earthquake occurring on this fault before 2068.

The government is committed to enhancing public safety while supporting economic growth and urban development. By addressing the challenges associated with earthquake-prone buildings, the goal is to create resilient communities prepared for future seismic events.

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Year-round warmth

Innovative outdoor heating solutions As outdoor living spaces become more and more popular, finding ways to stay warm outdoors is important.

From patios and decks to event spaces, innovative outdoor heating solutions are transforming how we enjoy the open air, even during the colder months. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or event planner, these modern heating options offer style, efficiency and sustainability.

1. Infrared heaters Infrared heating technology is a game-changer for outdoor spaces. Unlike traditional heaters that warm the surrounding air, infrared heaters release radiant heat that directly warms objects and people within its range. This makes them energy-efficient, as no heat is wasted on empty air. Infrared heaters provide immediate warmth without waiting for the air to heat up and allow for directional control, making them perfect for patios or dining spaces. They consume less energy, reducing

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carbon emissions and providing an eco-friendly option. Infrared heaters are available as wallmounted, ceiling-mounted, or freestanding units, offering flexibility to suit various outdoor settings.

2. Eco-friendly

bioethanol fire pits

Bioethanol fire pits have emerged as a sustainable alternative to traditional gas or wood-burning fire features.

They burn clean bioethanol fuel, producing no smoke, soot, or ash, making them ideal for residential and commercial

use. These fire pits are clean and smoke-free, creating the impression of a real flame without air pollution. Low maintenance and easy to install, bioethanol fire pits require no gas lines or chimneys, making them a convenient and responsible way to create a cosy vibe.

3. Electric radiant

ceiling panels

For a discreet heating solution, electric radiant ceiling panels are gaining traction in outdoor areas. These slim panels are mounted overhead and use

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radiant heat to warm people and objects below. They are commonly used in pergolas, covered patios, and outdoor dining areas. Radiant ceiling panels keep the floor and wall space clear, operate at a lower energy cost compared to conventional heaters, and are built to withstand outdoor conditions. Their durability and space-saving design make them a great option for modern outdoor spaces.

outdoors. These heaters use solar panels to harness energy from the sun, providing clean, renewable heat. Solar-powered heaters are cost-effective, reducing energy bills with free solar power while also being environmentally conscious with zero emissions. Modern designs make these heaters compact and suitable for a number of different spaces. Although solar heaters require sunlight, they are a fantastic long-term investment for sustainable outdoor heating.

4. Smart heated

furniture

Heated furniture is an innovative concept that integrates warmth directly into seating and tables. Powered by electricity or rechargeable batteries, these smart designs provide targeted heat, ensuring comfort without the need for large heaters. Heated

furniture has customisable heat settings, allowing users to control the level of warmth.

Battery-powered options make them portable and versatile, catering to both residential and commercial settings.

Smart heated furniture, such as benches, chairs, and

tables, is particularly useful for restaurants, hotels, and outdoor events.

5. Solar-powered

outdoor heaters

Solar-powered heaters are an eco-friendly way to stay warm

Innovative outdoor heating solutions are changing how we use and how often we can enjoy outdoor spaces. From energyefficient infrared heaters to stylish bioethanol fire pits and smart heated furniture, there is a solution to suit every need and aesthetic.

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Hammering out smart business tips

Running your own trade business isn’t just about being good at the tools— it’s about working smarter to get the most out of every job.

Watch your finances

Keeping an eye on your finances is key. Use accounting software like Xero to track what’s coming in and going out. Set aside money for taxes, insurance, and unexpected expenses so you’re not caught out.

Find your niche

Whether you’re a builder, plumber, sparky, or carpenter, here are some practical tips to help you keep things running smoothly, find more clients, and grow your business.

Sometimes, focusing on a specific area can set you apart. Whether it’s high-end renovations, sustainable building, or specialty finishes, becoming known as the go-to tradie for something unique can boost your reputation and bring in steady work.

Get online and get noticed These days, people look online before picking up the phone. A simple website that shows off your work has your contact details and includes a few reviews from happy clients can make a big difference. Social media is also handy—platforms like Facebook or Instagram let you share project photos and connect with potential customers.

Prioritise safety

There are heaps of apps out there to help tradies.

Tools like Tradify or Fergus can handle scheduling, invoicing, and tracking jobs. It’s all about working smarter, not harder, so you can focus on the job instead of paperwork.

Be upfront about costs Clients appreciate clear pricing. Break down your quotes so people know exactly what they’re paying for—materials, labour, and any extras. It saves you headaches later and builds trust.

Use tech to stay organised There are heaps of apps out there to help tradies.

Tools like Tradify or Fergus can handle scheduling, invoicing, and tracking jobs. It’s all about working smarter, not harder, so you can focus on the job instead of paperwork.

46

Treat your clients well Good customer service goes a long way. Show up when you say you will, keep them in the loop about the job and check in after it’s done.

A happy client is more likely to recommend you to others, which is the best kind of advertising.

Spread the word Word-of-mouth is powerful, but don’t rely on it alone.

Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews online.

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You could also run local ads or highlight any specialities— like eco-friendly building options or custom work— to stand out.

Keep learning The industry is always changing, with new materials, tools, and rules to keep up with. Take time to learn about the latest trends or attend training sessions.

Staying ahead of the curve helps you offer better solutions to your clients.

Safety isn’t just for show—it’s essential. Make sure you and your team follow all the proper regulations and have the right gear. Keeping everyone safe builds trust and ensures your jobs run smoothly.

Network with tradies Partnering with other tradies can be a game-changer. If you’re a builder, teaming up with a plumber or sparky can help you take on bigger jobs.

Building good relationships with suppliers is also worth it—they might offer you better deals or priority service.

Let your work speak for itself At the end of the day, people remember great workmanship and reliability. If you’re consistent, professional, and easy to work with, word will spread. And when it does, more opportunities will come your way.

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