Building Innovations Spring 2015

SPRING 2015

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Contents

Building Innovations NZ | Spring

MANAGING DIRECTOR James Lynch james@waterfordpress.co.nz

GENERAL MANAGER Rex Lynch rex@waterfordpress.co.nz

EDITOR Nick Gormack nickg@waterfordpress.co.nz

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Journalists Jo Bailey, Karen Phelps, Kelly Deeks, Sue Russell, Kim Newth

SALES ROOM Helena Watson, Debbie Bennett helena@waterfordpress.co.nz

Skifield base a real winner

PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT

Making a statement in Tauranga

The new $23 million base building at the Remarkables The new Harcourts building in central Tauranga has Ski Area has been a hit with visitors and staff. a striking appearance.

Graphic Artists Samantha Stuart, Michael Parker, Liki Udam, Anton Gray, Jessica Ann, Michael Perry art@waterfordpress.co.nz Customer Services Ann-Marie Frentz Sarah McQuilkin annmarie@waterfordpress.co.nz Distribution Wendy McLarin wendy@waterfordpress.co.nz

ADMINISTRATION Manager Helen Bourne accounts@waterfordpress.co.nz

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Subscriptions Jill Holland subs@waterfordpress.co.nz

Printed by

New warehouse breaks the mould

Building’s design elements include an energy-efficient inclined glass curtain wall.

Waterford Press Limited

Timber holding its own

Timber’s natural qualities have kept it at the forefront of the New Zealand building industry.

112 Wrights Road, Addington, Christchurch Phone 03-983 5500 P O Box 37 346 www.waterfordpress.co.nz These conditions are prescribed for the sake of understanding between the Company and its clients. Advertising is charged for on the basis of space taken up using a standard tabloid page. Actual space may be reduced during the printing process but this will effect all advertisers equally so no credit will be given for any reduction in size due to processing. The Company reserves the right to alter, change or omit entirely any advertisement or article that it considers to be objectionable or which may contravene any law. In the event of a failure on the part of the Company to insert advertising as instructed the Company may publish the advertisement at the first available subsequent reasonable date unless the advertisement features date sensitive material. Every care shall be taken to publish the advertisement in accordance with the advertisers instructions as to page and position but the Company reserves the right for whatever reason to place advertising in a different position and in doing so shall incur no liability whatsoever. Advertisers must advise the Company immediately of any error or omission in advertisements and shall work constructively to remedy the situation which in the first instance shall be a rerun of the corrected advertisement in the next available issue. Where advertisement proofs have been faxed or mailed to the client 48 hours prior to the nominated printing cutoff time acquiesce shall be taken as confirmation and acceptance. Corrections made by telephone shall be accepted but the Company reserves the right to decide whether a further proof should be faxed or mailed to the client. Accounts for advertising are due for payment within seven days of publication of the newspaper. Accounts not paid within this time may incur a penalty of 3% per month until the account is paid. Any debt collection costs incurred by the Company will be added to the account of the debtor. Views and opinions expressed in Building Innovations NZ are not necessarily those of the editors, Waterford Press Ltd or publisher. Building Innovations NZ welcomes contributions from freelance writers & journalists. All articles published at editors discretion. Building Innovations NZ accepts no responsibilty for loss of photos or manuscripts.

ISSN 2324-1195

32 Seafront dream becomes reality

This stunning coastal home near Wanganui makes the most of its dramatic location.

38 Cottage restoration rewarding

The historic Scheib Cottage at Arrow Junction has undergone extensive renovations and additions.

Benefits At A Glance…

No Power in treatment processes Natures Ac ve ‘Bio-system’ Odourless, quiet opera on Cost effec ve from Day 1

Extremely low Maintenance needs Modular with low site impact Free Onsite Assessments Council consent documenta on

News

Leasing activity gathers pace in Chch CBD Chris Hutching Meridian Energy is leasing half the office space in the five level Awly building in Christchurch that should be complete by next April.

Meridian has signed a 10-year lease for 4100sqm to accommodate its 370 Christchurch staff in the Warren and Mahoney-designed building owned by Awly Investments The lease of the building at 287-293 Durham St is the latest commercial property deal as numerous new buildings in the post-earthquake rebuild phase approach completion.

Durham St is the new central business district while areas of the old CBD around Cathedral Square remain unoccupied.

New building is also under way in Cashel and Hereford streets.

Meridian looked at several sites over about a year before deciding on the Awly site.

Awly is the first building in Christchurch, post earthquake, to achieve a 5 Green Star Design rating. Among the many sustainable features are a high-performance façade with solar-control glazing and tailored external shading, base isolated structure for greater seismic resilience, and a highly efficient air conditioning system.

Meridian also selected Awly because of its potential energy efficiencies.

The building has been designed to target a 4-Star Plus NABERSNZ rating – an energy performance measurement for office buildings that can help reduce costs for tenants and enhance building value for owners. NABERSNZ measures and rates energy performance on a scale of one to six stars.

Noel Gilchrist and Helen Weideman of Colliers negotiated the lease and hope to announce further tenants for the Awly building soon.

The Terrace development is well underway in central Christchurch.

A new building in Victoria St is scheduled for completion and marketers are seeking tenants in an increasingly competitive leasing environment.

The property at 167 Victoria St is due for completion in late August.

It is owned by Ashburton-based John Acland and Blair Gallagher who received

The Awly Building on Durham Street should be complete by next April.

an insurance payout for the former building which was written off and demolished after the 2011 earthquakes.

The building provides new space in the central city at the same time that several other new office buildings are also coming out of the ground.

Incentives to tenants are becoming a feature of the market as the office vacancy level rises above 11% with all the new offerings.

Commercial sales and leasing brokers, Jesse Paenga and Chris Harding of JLL are marketing the office spaces at asking rents of about $350sqm with operating expenses on top.

Victoria St became the heart of postquake development with more than 25,000sqm of new office and entertainment space.

Many law firms and professional services have relocated there including Duncan Cotterill, Murray & Co, and Craigs Investment Partners, as well as numerous cafes.

The building will comprise three storeys of office space, and a mezzanine office on the top floor, plus 141sqm of ground floor retail space.

AUCKLAND

0800 89 49 29

H A M I LTO N

0800 72 58 55

WELLINGTON

0800 24 47 31

More law firms are beating a path back to the city centre.

Midgley Partners Chartered Accountants has acquired a unit in a new unit-titled development at 71 Gloucester St. It is the fourth office to be sold in the three-level block of 12 units.

Amherst Properties is constructing the units between Montreal St and Cambridge Tce near the new Deloitte building.

Before the 2011 earthquakes the firm was based in Victoria Square before being forced to find new premises in a suburban location, Blenheim Rd. Meanwhile for many smaller businesses it may be a better financial decision to purchase their offices rather than lease, especially in today’s low interest rate environment, according to Savills agent Ben Cameron formerly with Bayleys until recently.

His team also comprises five ex-Colliers staff who defected recently.

Ryan Geddes of Savills says they are working with Match Realty on central city retail leasing and almost all the flagship ground floor retail units in new developments are now under negotiation for opening by late 2016.

www.rapidrentafence.co.nz

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL TEMPORARY FENCE HIRE SPECIALISTS Building Innovations NZ 5

News

Helping Kaiapoi heritage to stand strong With building demolition a common sight in Christchurch over the past few years, it’s refreshing to see one being given the chance to stand strong for years to come, particularly so when the building is a 130-year old, Category One Heritage New Zealand listing.

Suffering significant damage from the region’s 2010/2011 earthquakes, the old Bank of New Zealand building in the Canterbury township of Kaiapoi, has undergone the first stage of its restoration, with level correction successfully completed by Mainmark Ground Engineering.

Kaiapoi was hit hard by the earthquakes, thousands of buildings and homes severely damaged, and many consequently demolished.

The old bank building was one of the few remaining local heritage buildings still standing. Purpose-built for BNZ in 1883, the building is a well-known local landmark, perched on the corner of the town’s main street.

The building’s owner, Kaiapoi businessman John Shivas, was amongst many who were keen to completely restore the old bank. He worked closely with the supportive local council, driving the project to ensure it went ahead. Grants (totalling $238,000), received from the Canterbury Earthquake Heritage Building Fund and Heritage New Zealand’s national incentive fund, helped make the work possible.

Before internal and external work could begin, the iconic building had to be re-levelled.

Already with obvious damage, there was significant concern the structure would suffer further damage during level correction.

Keeping that to an absolute minimum was key to ensuring reparation costs could stay within reach.

The old Bank of New Zealand building in the Canterbury township of Kaiapoi, has undergone the first stage of its restoration.

The 250-tonne building had subsided across the entire footprint, towards the North East corner by more than 200mm.

Throughout the project, Mainmark ensured the entire structure was uniformly and continually supported, and then raised back to level, without any new stresses being introduced or effecting the structural integrity of the building.

Industry specialists, Mainmark use noninvasive ground engineering techniques

that have little, if any, negative impact on a structure and the land around it. The JOG method, a computer-controlled grout injection system, which injects specialised cement grout at pre-determined locations, was selected as the best solution to this challenge.

Linked to a computer, JOG ‘androids’ are positioned at multiple injection locations beneath the building, to control the sequence of injection and quantity of material delivered, ensuring the lift is gentle and uniform.

Mainmark has corrected hundreds of buildings within Christchurch and thousands around the world, notably the JOG method was used to re-level the Christchurch Art Gallery last year. The company’s General Manager, Russell Deller says JOG is effective on any size building. “It’s had great success since it was created in Japan more than 20 years ago. We’ve used it on residential and non-residential buildings with excellent results.”

Simple screening test MedNZ Ltd specialises in suppyling products for screening for the presence of drugs whether for substance, surface detection or for workplace drug testing.

MedNZ director Jo Kirk says four years ago the company took on sole agency for a narcotics screening process manufactured by global industry leader MMC International, based in Holland, which simply and effectively detects whether a property or a surface has been in contact with Methamphetamine.

She says since this time demand for the product has gathered momentum due to the ease and the cost-effectiveness of administering the tests.

“Our instant presumptive test eliminates the need to send samples away for laboratory analysis at the screening stage.”

“The ‘Check4Meth’ screening kits are proving increasingly popular with potential home-owners and landlords who want the assurance a property is free of the drug.”

The testing kits are simple to use and detect amounts over the NZ Guideline for Methamphetamine.

“It only takes around a minute to get results and the steps are really simple,” she says.

“We have clients who use CHECK4METH because their children are moving into a rental property, especially university students.

“It’s also ideal for landlords who want to do a before and after screening test when tenants are coming and going from the property.

6 Building Innovations NZ

“Even stolen cars that have been found have been screened for Methamphetamine afterwards.

“Purchasing a property is a stressful time, but with a screening test that can give an instant result for Methamphetamine present higher than the NZ Guidelines is a big help initially when you don’t have the time to wait for laboratory results.”

Kirk recommends detailed testing should be undertaken once an offer goes on a property for purchase. This can also be arranged through MedNZ Ltd. At a retail cost of $150 for 10 CHECK4METH screening tests, consumers are spared not only the time it takes to await results that are analysed by laboratories but save money in the process. Each CHECK4METH screening kit comes complete with everything needed to conduct 10 tests.

“I think that key to the growing demand for CHECK4METH is its portability, simplicity of use, accuracy and speed at which results are obtained.

Its applications are also virtually limitless, from real-estate, vehicles, boats, to commercial and industrial sites.”

Recognition of her enthusiasm, drive and commitment to the product has recently come in the form of being awarded a finalist in the Best Product or Service category of this year’s NZ Mumtrepreneur contest.

“This was a great honour and one that will be displayed with pride in the office.”

Instant and easy screening kit for

METHAMPHETAMINE

ELECTRICAL CHECK PLUMBING CHECK BUILDING CHECK CHECK 4 METH Ideal for properties, rentals, apartments, vehicles, boats and trucks

JO KIRK - Managing Director

Commercial Building

Stranges sets the standard for inner city Jo Bailey Stranges Lane is setting the standard for new commercial developments in the Christchurch inner city.

The eye-catching hospitality and office complex has won several awards, with the latest being a Canterbury Architecture Award for architects, Sheppard and Rout.

The firm had already picked up NZIA and Property Council awards for the project, with the developers Shaun Stockman, and brothers Dean and Grant Marshall of KPI Rothschild also winning Christchurch Civic Trust and Christchurch Heritage Trust awards. With its laneways, courtyards and triangular multi-coloured glass facade, the design has a “mini Melbourne” feel, which was exactly what architect Jasper van der Lingen wanted to achieve with the project.

“The special character of the laneways found in Melbourne and some European cities was at the forefront of our thinking for this project.”

“We were fortunate the adjacent Bonningtons brick building from 1882 survived the earthquakes really well, as this gave us something old and a bit grungy to play against.”

The new three-storey 1500sqm Stranges Building, and adjoining 600sqm Glendenning Hill Building were constructed on the site of the original Stranges Building (on the corner of Lichfield, Manchester and High Streets) which was destroyed in the earthquakes.

Van der Lingen says the developers, KPI Rothschild are among the “real heroes

The three-storey 1500sqm Stranges Building and adjoining 600sqm Glendenning Hill Building were constructed on the site of the original Stranges Building (on the corner of Lichfield, Manchester and High Streets) which was destroyed in the earthquakes.

of the rebuild” as they were the first to complete a commercial development back in the city centre; and had the desire to create something special on the tricky, triangular site.

“We didn’t have a big area of land to

work with and it would have been far easier and more economic for the developers to build a full three-level building across the whole site and not incorporate the laneways at all.

“However, being the first project back in

the inner city they wanted to do something unique that could set the scene for what the future Christchurch could look like.”

A raw, industrial theme is evident throughout the building’s interior in keeping with the edgy, laneway feel.

New micro rig offers greater applications Spiral Drillers now offers a micro piling rig in New Zealand that can drill in smaller and tighter spaces than ever before.

Being only 1.4m wide by 2.4m tall and able to drill diameters of up to 900mm and down to depths of 15 metres, this is greater than anything before seen in New Zealand says company business development manager Ben Faber.

He says the new TC7 micro piling rig is ideally suited to seismic strengthening and upgrading work in existing buildings to bring them up to the new standards.

He says that a recent project, which the company completed, is a good example of the capabilities of the machine.

Spiral Drillers was called in to drill some additional 750mm piles down to 14m in the basement of a two storey building that is being upgraded and an additional two levels added onto it.

The company completed the job with a low head height of just 3.2m with the micro piling rigs compact size and weight of just seven tonnes making the job possible.

When confronted with out of the ordinary on-site obstacles, Ben says that the company typically responds by designing and constructing its own specialised equipment.

A recent project is a good example, which saw the company required to construct a 600mm diameter pile down 5.3m for a power pole situation in the middle of the bush. Spiral Drillers fabricated its own portable rig to complete the job.

Experts in Residential & Commercial Piling

The rig was dismantled, flown to the inaccessible site in sections by helicopter, and then reassembled before drilling could commence.

Once the drilling was completed, reinforcing steel and concrete was flown in to create the pile and then the machine was disassembled and flown back out again.

Spiral Drillers was started in 1971 by Brian Hannah and is today a well-established and respected company in the pile drilling, pile driving and civil construction industry.

w w w. s p i r a l d r i l l e r s . c o . n z • 0 8 0 0 7 7 4 7 2 5

With the growth of the company now under Brian’s son Andrew and Jon Faber’s ownership, the emphasis is on difficult, large or specialised drilling and piling applications.

• Reinforced Concrete Piles • Access Shafts • Micro Piling • Pile Driving • Plant Hire • Retaining Walls • Screw Piles • Sheet Piling • Underpinning

Spiral Drillers employs about 35 people and undertakes contract work all over the North Island.

Services include reinforced concrete piles, access shafts, micro piling, pile driving, plant hire, retaining walls, screw piles, sheet piling and underpinning.

WE SERVICE THE ENTIRE NORTH ISLAND

Building Innovations NZ 7

Commercial Building

Pandect MAXIS surface fixed through floor lift launched Ian Bougen Vestner NZ Ltd Managing Director said “....after several years of research and development, we are very pleased to introduce the new Pandect MAXIS surface fixed through floor lift to the NZ market”

Platform Lifts, Elevators & Stair Lifts

Vestner NZ Ltd recently purchased the Pandect brand, New Zealand's leading designer, manufacturer, installer and exporter of platform lifts with many years experience in this field. Specialising in open platform lifts and now single story enclosed through floor lifts, the Pandect lift range is suitable for environments such as schools, public buildings, offices, retail, commercial and residential premises.

The introduction of the MAXIS lift suitable for both commercial and private dwelling situations has been very well received by our first clients.

Of most interest to architects, designers and builders is the fact that the lift is surface fixed (no pit or bore required), does not require load bearing walls, comes complete with lift shaft and simply connects into a standard power supply. All of which offer significant savings in regard build costs.

New Zealand Made

(03) 338 5188 or 0800 358 383 • info@vestner.co.nz

The MAXIS is modular and can be used where the rise between floors is from 1 metre up to 4 metres.

Pandect lifts are fully compliant with NZS 4334:2012 Platform lifts and low-speed lifts; NZS 4121:2001 Design for Access & Mobility – Buildings & Associated Facilities; NZBC Clause D2 – Mechanical Installations for Access and the NZ Building Code.

Pandect lifts are manufactured to meet a range of environments and settings. Where standard production models are not suitable or where a customised design is required, the opportunity to be able to design and manufacture to suit is often available. Please contact Vestner to discuss your requirements.

www.pandect.co.nz

Formsteel...

has it covered Formsteel products have been used in literally thousands of constructions from Cape Reinga to Bluff and around the Pacific and the unique connecting system has proven to be tough and durable in a wide variety of conditions.

“All products Formsteel uses are the highest tensile grades available resulting in a strong and efficient structure that will withstand extreme weather conditions such as cyclonic wind and snow loads,” says Lawson Suckling from Formsteel.

The strength of the product is also a key aspect of the system that enables

extreme versatility. Formsteel's high strength steel system utilises unique butting connections making Formsteel products strong as well as quick to build.

Formsteel is unique in that it is a modular system – giving significant cost saving benefits – yet also allows for a great deal of flexibility in terms of how the system is put together to provide customers with many options to achieve virtually any design, size and shape.

The strength of the product also means that Formsteel customers can have complete control over the height, width and bay sizes.

Formsteel has designed buildings up to 16m high and over 50m clear span. This means less internal support posts can be incorporated into the design

creating more flexible and spacious interiors in a building. Because every component is made from fully hot dipped galvanised steel and coatings of up to 450 grams of zinc per square metre are applied at the mill to Formsteel products, they are incredibly durable and will perform for many years with minimal maintenance.

tailoring solutions to match client needs. Because Formsteel manufactures all the components it needs from its one site, getting orders designed, completed and delivered on time is streamlined and stress free.

Other benefits of the system include reduced labour time and quicker delivery of the final product and well as cost savings.

“When companies need the strongest steel structures Formsteel has it covered. Our products, technology and approach are all geared towards helping clients to build on Formsteel’s strength.”

Formsteel is a proudly New Zealand owned and operated company that has been in business for over 40 years.

Formsteel manufactures a number of different product lines and can take on any project from the smallest carport all the way up to major industrial buildings,

The company can undertake full design of buildings including taking care of things like foundations.

For more information on superior strength, please call Formsteel on 0800 800 003 or visit www.formsteel.co.nz

Formsteel, manufacturers of high strength building systems, break the Clear Span barrier and can now Clear Span 50m IND U S T R I A L TECHNOLOGIES

8 Building Innovations NZ

COMMERCIAL

H A N GA R S

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www.formsteel.co.nz

Commercial Building

Reinforcing made easy Fletcher Reinforcing supplies the reinforcing steel and reinforcing mesh that provides greater strength to concrete foundations and structures.

has been developed specifically to meet the new residential building standards requirements that came into effect in February 2012.

The company manufactures mesh from its facility in Auckland, with additional processing plants located in all major cities.

Distribution is through the PlaceMakers network to builders throughout New Zealand.

Development of the product has involved an unwavering focus on research, in collaboration with Pacific Steel, as well as independent testing at the Pacific Steel test house.

Fletcher Reinforcing carries stock of steel reinforcing material, cuts and bends rebar and produces cutting and bending schedules from construction drawings.

Reinforcing bar is the core of Fletcher Reinforcing’s business. The company offers a complete range of both grade 300E and 500E plain, deformed and threaded reinforcing steel.

Each grade has a variety of diameters available and the smaller sizes are available ex stock.

All the steel supplied by Fletcher Reinforcing is produced in New Zealand by Pacific Steel.

Seismic® reinforcing bar, made by Pacific Steel, is made specifically to meet New Zealand’s unique seismic conditions and is found in commercial, industrial, infrastructure and residential buildings.

Super Ductile™ is the Fletcher Reinforcing’s market leading 500E grade of reinforcing mesh designed to withstand the forces of seismic activity to provide stronger reinforcement to concrete foundations. It

Fletcher Reinforcing is proud to congratulate PlaceMakers Taupo on the relocation of the store to brand new purpose built premises in the heart of the city.

Fletcher Reinforcing is PlaceMakers’ preferred supplier of steel reinforcing mesh and bar materials to the residential and commercial market.

The company’s customer base supplied through PlaceMakers includes construction contractors, medium and small sized building contractors, a handyman wanting to pour a slab for a garden shed or even an artist wanting to make items from reinforcing steel.

PlaceMakers Taupo branch operator Kerry Hudson says that the new 7401 square metre premises at 66 Crown Road mean that the range and quantity of products, such as those supplied by Fletcher Reinforcing, has been able to be increased.

Located in Taupo’s busy industrial sector PlaceMakers Taupo is situated on one of the city’s key arterial routes about four kilometres from the city centre making it the ideal location for suppliers, trade customers and the general public to easily access.

Building Innovations NZ 9

Commercial >> Arrow International - Remarkables Ski Area Base Building

Remarkables base living up to its name Jo Bailey The construction team and client NZSki worked around the clock to have the new $23 million Remarkables Ski Area base building ready for the start of the ski season.

Despite this huge effort some “diabolical” blizzard-like conditions towards the end of the project delayed the official opening by a week, says Nick Hamlin, regional director of main contractors Arrow International.

“A few weeks out we were pretty confident of hitting the target.

“But the wind and weather made it just too dangerous to install the massive 100 kg windows into the large peak corner of the building.

“It was frustrating but we couldn’t leave it open to the elements.”

The striking 10-metre glass frontage is a focal point of the 6000sqm building, designed by local firm Michael Wyatt Architects.

Around 1300sqm of outdoor decking wraps around the building on the upper level, where there are upmarket restaurant, café and bar facilities inside.

These areas have been split into zones, to provide different spaces where guests can relax or enjoy food and refreshments.

New ground floor facilities include improved ticketing, rentals, retail services and access to the skifield.

The base building is part of a substantial $45 million investment at the ski area, which includes the new Curvey Basin chairlift, road re-alignment and sealing, trail developments, expansion of the snow making system and extended car parking.

“It is an amazing site and building that we are proud to have been involved with,” says Nick.

The striking 10-metre glass frontage is a focal point of the 6000sqm building, designed by Queenstown firm Michael Wyatt Architects.

“This project had an outstanding, letsget-it-done culture, with everyone, from the Arrow team, to subcontractors and labourers giving it their-all - some of them working nearly 30 days in a row.”

He says the client NZSki was also heavily involved as the project drew to a close, with

Proud to be involved with the Remarkables Skifield Base Building

Commercial and Domestic Construction.

Insulated Panel Supply and Installation.

several of its staff involved in snow clearing, carting materials, and wiping down areas.

“It was a massive team effort to get it over the line.”

Incredibly there was only one injury during the project, when a contractor slipped in the carpark.

“To get all the way through the job with no construction related injury was outstanding.”

Nick says these sorts of projects don’t come along too often in a lifetime, with the snowy conditions on the mountain, winds reaching up to 120kmh, risk of avalanche,

“It was a hugely challenging job for everyone involved, and we really appreciate all the effort that was put in, especially by Arrow and the contractors who worked so hard and had to contend with more than 30 weatheraffected days during the project.”

www.archerconstruction.co.nz kerry@archerconstruction.co.nz 0272338089

Pleased to have been involved from start to finish with Arrow International and the Remarkables skifield Base build.

PO Box 93 Queenstown, 9348, New Zealand Phone +64 21 669 293 tony@multiline.co.nz

Proud to be involved in The Remarkables Ski Field Base Building 95 Fryatt Street, Dunedin 9016 P: 03 477 1643 E: info@action.net.nz

www.action.net.nz 10 Building Innovations NZ

• • • •

Innovative construction Specialized in complex foundations and set out DWG file management Surveying

Commercial >> Arrow International - Remarkables Ski Area Base Building and the keas that would appear at night to vandalise the trucks making it a unique work site.

“A couple of days before we were meant to hand over the building, we had to leave the site in convoy behind a snow plough because of avalanche warnings.”

Around 120 contractors joined the Arrow team and NZSki staff for a contractors’ shout in August, and although all agreed it was a tough project, with tough conditions, they enjoyed it and were proud of everyone’s efforts.

Members of the Arrow International team have also taken their wives and families to the skifield to show them the results of their hard work.

“We’ve spent a lot of time away from our families on this project so it was great to be able to show them what we achieved.”

Arrow International has now moved on to some slightly more sedate projects, with new $10 million rest homes under construction in Invercargill and Wanaka, and tenders in the pipeline for some significant projects at the University of Otago.

The Remarkables Ski Area opened on June 27 in near perfect conditions, with blue sky and plenty of snow.

NZ Ski chief executive Paul Anderson says it was one the “biggest days ever” on the mountain.

“The building performed really and the guest feedback has been unanimously positive.

“They particularly enjoy the upstairs hospitality facilities with great vistas up the mountain or back down the valley.

“Our modern new menus have also been a hit with guests.”

Careful planning and collaboration between NZSki, Trojan Holdings (major shareholder of the ski area), Arrow

The new Remarkables Ski Area base building has been a hit withNZSki staff and visitors to the mountain.

International and various consultants have been a hallmark of the project, he says.

“It was a hugely challenging job for everyone involved, and we really appreciate all the effort that was put in, especially by Arrow and the contractors who worked so

hard and had to contend with more than 30 weather-affected days during the project.”

He says NZSki is continually exploring ways to improve its product, with the current development translating to an increase in guest numbers.

“The responses show how attractive the new facilities are to our customer base, and we’ll continue to fine tune them over the summer months, making any tweaks necessary to ensure we provide our guests with the best possible experience.”

Metal specialist digs in It’s not every day the team at Otago Sheetmetal & Engineering work in minusseven degree conditions, but this was one of the challenges of the Remarkables Ski Area base building project.

“The freezing conditions did present some challenges. However our team’s passion for the project always over-rode the temptation to stay in bed with the electric blanket on,” says general manager Darren Jennings.

Otago Sheetmetal & Engineering supplied the stainless steel handrails, steel frame seating, stainless steel downpipes and all of the galvanised grating for the project as a subcontractor to Arrow International.

Darren says as specialists supplying the metalwork components of all-sized projects, the firm has gained a reputation for completing delivery within the construction programme, no matter how trying the conditions. “We understand the on-site process, liaise well with the main contractor, and work seamlessly with others trades to ensure everyone has the same goal – a happy client.”

The Dunedin-based firm has operated for over 20 years, and is happy to work anywhere in the South Island south of Christchurch, particularly in the Queenstown and Wanaka regions.

With one of the best-equipped workshops in the South Island the firm’s skilled staff are able to utilise water-jet or plasma cutting technology to produce something out of the ordinary. This could be anything from a unique design in ceramic tiles, to a rusted steel sign.

“We are always happy to chat with clients and discuss what can be done.”

Darren couldn’t speak more highly of his team. “From the first contact to installation our customers know they are in good hands.

The strong culture and commitment to a job well done shines through.”

Contracts Manager Francis McBreen has extensive project experience and guides clients through the pricing and planning process. “We know our team’s strengths and how to achieve cost savings when customer’s budgets are under pressure. If our technology can cut some labour costs, this all comes off the base price.”

A Mandrel pipe bender has given Otago Sheetmetal & Engineering a big advantage when it comes to delivering the current trend towards low maintenance stainless steel handrails in commercial buildings and schools.

“The pipe bender can run continuous six metre length, reducing the amount of welding and providing products with a superior, timeless finish that become a feature of entranceways and accessways.”

These products have been showcased in high profile projects such as Wall Street Mall in Dunedin and the multi-million dollar refurbishment at Otago Polytechnic.

Darren says the company can also custommake stainless steel balustrade posts in a range of designs to complement glass panels.

“These products can’t be supplied off the rack, and give architects the confidence to create a unique look.”

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darren@otagosheetmetal.co.nz Building Innovations NZ 11

Commercial >> Quail Ridge Country Club

Unique life-style village taking shape Sue Russell Development of a unique luxury life-style village, Quail Ridge Country Club, designed for the 55-plus age group is well underway a stone’s throw from the historic Northland town of Kerikeri.

Project Manager David Penberthy says physical work on the nearly 17 hectare site began 18 months ago, the culmination of seven years of preparation and planning by the land owners Don and Jill Cottle respected residents of Kerikeri for 35 years and their enthusiastic team.

“I am very pleased with how much has been achieved in the past year and a half, with the infrastructure for Stage 1 nearly complete, two homes currently being built for incoming residents and a one-off architecturally designed 270 square metre ‘high-end’ show-home due for completion in early November,” David says.

He says that the interest in and demand for homes at Quail Ridge Country Club has been very positive, with 22 deposits and a further 10 prospective purchases under negotiation.

For David, this level of interest is not surprising, given the beautiful surroundings that residents will ultimately enjoy.

The site is close to famous Rainbow Falls and 80% of the boundary is bordered by reserve with well-marked walking tracks close by.

Every home will have a private landscaped garden, with extensive tree plantings affording privacy for all residents.

Eight house plans have been developed, with some having a nod to the rich heritage of the buildings of historic Kerikeri.

“All plans can be individualised and every bespoke kitchen is purpose-built to meet the needs of the owners,” David explains.

“We have used 75 mm Hebel cladding from CSR throughout because it provides additional insulation, acoustic and fire resistant properties.”

David says that Hebel provides a warmer, safer and quiet home for our residents.

“CSR being one of Australasia’s oldest businesses they provide us with warranties of substance.”

The Quail Ridge Country Club site is bordered by reserves with well-marked walking tracks close by.

“Heat pumps and double-glazing come standard and the entire house is insulated, including the garage door.”

Stage 1 of Quail Ridge Country Club will eventually be home to 35 residences settled near The Mandarin Grove, a landscaped open area bursting with fruit trees.

Stage 2 focuses on community facilities, with a clubhouse including restaurant/ café, a swimming pool and day-spa and a gymnasium, tennis court, bowling green and petanque court.

This stage will also see a further 15 homes

THE NEIGHBOURS ARE WAITING TO MEET YOU!

built along with a future care facility.

“In Stage 3 we are building a really stunning lakes, stream, rapids, bridge and waterfall space for all residents to enjoy.

“The flow allows for a natural purification process to continually regenerate and keep the water clear. Any nutrients that form are absorbed to grow the vegetation bordering the lakes. The lake has been lined and is expected to be completed in the next couple of months.”

A new pedestrian bridge over the Kerikeri River will link Quail Ridge Country Club

Replenishing Earth’s Water

to the adjacent Bay of Islands Golf Course, making access for owners to the stunning golf course just an easy stroll.

A further 40 homes will complete Stage 3, which is guarded by a stand of Totara trees on the properties western boundary.

When prospective purchasers come enquiring about owning a home at Quail Ridge Country Club, David says there are some essential early conversations that take place.

• to page 14

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12 Building Innovations NZ

Commercial >> Quail Ridge Country Club

The unique luxury life-style village, Quail Ridge Country Club, is designed for the 55-plus age group.

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Commercial >> Quail Ridge Country Club

Life-style village takes shape in the far North • From page 12 “Privacy is a key concern,” says David Penberthy.

“Many retirement villages are designed in such a way that the moment you step out of your house you are in full view,” s“At Quail Ridge Country Club each house has a landscaped private garden.

“There is no fencing, instead mature trees and substantial size shrubs are being planted on all sections.”

Security is another concern and to answer this every house has a 24-hour emergency call system.

Complimentary transport between Kerikeri settlement and Quail Ridge Country Club is available for residents on a daily basis.

The system of ownership is also unique from standard retirement villages as David explains.

“We share the capital gain with the residents 50:50. We offer this of right, rather than the standard agreement that applies to retirement villages throughout New Zealand.”

Prices for homes range from $425,000 to $749,000 and every house is constructed to the LifeMark standard.

David is proud of the fact that Quail Ridge Country Club is a LifeMark accredited partner.

“There is no fencing, instead mature trees and substantial size shrubs are being planted on all sections.”

Homes are designed and built to futureproof residents should their physical circumstances change, allowing for disability and the necessary space for walking frames and wheelchairs with absolutely flat transition from indoors to the outdoors.

“We have our own interior and kitchen designers as well as a landscape architect who all work complimentary for residents to absolutely create their own unique mark on their property.

“It is exciting to see how much residents enjoy personalising their homes this way.”

For David the greatest satisfaction comes from dealing with the incoming residents and from being involved in the project right from its conception.

With so many people drawn to the beautiful surrounds and the ‘winterless north’, David can see the day, in the not too distant future, when Quail Ridge Country Club is a settled and thriving part of the Kerikeri community.

The Quail Ridge Country Club is adjacent Bay of Islands Golf Course.

Proud to be associated with Quail Ridge Country Club PH 09 430 0151 47 Norfolk St, Whangarei Mobile: 021 057 0707 Email: office@main4.co.nz PO Box 300, Whangarei B

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0800 433 748

Commercial >> Watts and Hughes - Bowden Road Office and Bulk Store

Constructed over two levels, the Bowden Road buildings are made from precast concrete panels, structural steel and concrete slab.

Company delivers under time pressure Karen Phelps Watts & Hughes Construction has just completed a 3000sqm warehouse with a 400sqmoffice in Bowden Road, Auckland, which Watts & Hughes contracts manager Steve Gutteridge says tested the company’s ability to deliver a project ahead of schedule at short notice.

The project was initially due for completion mid January 2015, but when the new tenant, distribution company Parker, had to move from existing premises earlier than anticipated the completion date was brought forward to mid-November 2014. S Steve Gutteridge says it was a matter of scheduling everything earlier and putting in the extra hours to get the job done on time and ensure a smooth transition for the tenant.

“It shows our flexibility and ability to respond quickly to the client’s changing needs and deadlines and then reprogramme and reschedule to achieve the end result,” Steve says.

Constructed over two levels, the buildings are made from precast concrete panels, structural steel and concrete slab.

It is the third project Watts & Hughes has recently completed in Bowden Road for the same client, Peter and Jean Lewis Trust.

Watts & Hughes has also just completed a 1000qsm extension to an existing warehouse and also installed new structural steel and gantry cranes in a warehouse in the same road, which Parker had previously tenanted.

“The owners were taking over this warehouse, when Parker moved out, for their glass company and had 42 containers of materials arriving from China therefore it was essential to get this project completed on time.

“Watts and Hughes site manager Glenn Spenser and all our staff and subbies really went the extra mile to ensure we hit the deadlines.”

Watts and Hughes director Robert Murphy says the company is extremely busy with government, local body and private projects.

As an example it has completed a major new addition and refurbishment to the Manukau District Court demonstrating the company’s ability to work on projects requiring sophisticated project management, says Murphy.

“All personnel working on site had to be police vetted and approved and carry photo identification,” says Rob. “Our processes had to be very robust so staff could move around the site securely and without causing any disruption to the daily business of the court,” he says.

The project comprised a new four-level building adjacent to the existing court as well as significant refurbishment and upgrading to the existing building.

It included a basement level underground car park for 24 vehicles, plant rooms and custodial areas.

Watts & Hughes is presently constructing a secure area where prisoners are held before they are taken to the court, which will be completed by December 2015.

Watts & Hughes Construction Limited is part of Watts Group. Based in Auckland the company was formed in 1984. Watts & Hughes offers a full range of construction management services from offices in Auckland as well as Christchurch, Mt Maunganui, Hamilton and Wellington.

Rob Murphy says Watts & Hughes Construction can provide a total service to clients, covering every aspect of construction at any level required including design and build, refurbishment, project management, site contract management, pricing and estimating, subcontract and material evaluation, leasing and building services.

Services are offered across a road spectrum of construction sectors including civil, industrial, recreational, retail, commercial,

institutional, residential, educational, marinas, government infrastructure, medical/health care and sub-divisions.

While Watts & Hughes can start its involvement in a project at any stage Murphy says that by engaging the company from the initial concept and design it can assist with matters such as budget control, offer a broad range of construction techniques for consideration, set efficient time-lines and help to overcome or offset potential construction period difficulties.

“Another key benefit for our clients is that all the Watts & Hughes directors are approachable and available for clients to talk to. As the owners and operators of the company we can make decisions quickly and with confidence.”

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SunBuild Contracting Joint Sealants & Waterproofing are proud to be associated with Cementitious & Epoxy Grouting Watts & Hughes Fire Rating to Structural Steel Commercial & Industrial Spray Coatings 48 Walls Road, Penrose P.O. Box 112-148, Auckland 1642 Tel: 09 580 4036 Fax: 09 580 4037

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Building Innovations NZ 15

Commercial >> Brunel Construction - 3rd Avenue Tauranga

New Harcourts building makes a statement Sue Russell In May this year Tauranga-based construction company Brunel Construction formally handed over the keys to a substantial and iconic new commercial property bordering the very edge of the city’s CBD. Commercial Manager Peter Haywood describes the new home for real-estate company Harcourts, which wraps around the corner of Devonport Road and 3rd Avenue as “very striking” in appearance.

“The owner wanted a statement building.

It’s positioned right at the point along Cameron Devonport Road where the city changes from residential to commercial so there is a strong sense of its presence at the gate-way,” Peter says.

Designed by leading Mt Maunganui architects First Principles Architects, the two storey building services not only the day to day operation of the busy city real-estate company but is also home to its auction rooms and head office.

Work on the approximately $2.5 million project began in May 2014 with Brunel Construction demolishing the existing buildings on the large corner site.

“The building was designed to have a light feel to it, show-cased by the expansive glass canopy linking 3rd and Devonport.

“To achieve this the concrete structure entry level is balanced with steel work above with lighter members.”

Peter says that as a structural material concrete has remained the same as it always has but where the difference is, and what this building demonstrates in such a stylised way is the application of the material to create striking architectural form.

“There has been a real evolution in concrete form work, using precast forms which are lifted up.

“In the case of the Harcourts Building unusually we did all the pre-cast work on site.

Working with concrete and its applications in modern building construction is something Haywood describes as a strength of the company.

“Some of our guys have huge expertise in concrete structures. We like concrete.”

This is not the first building Brunel Construction has completed for Harcourts.

That relationship began a few years ago with the Papamoa branch building which

The Harcourts building was “designed to have a light feel to it, show-cased by the expansive glass canopy”.

Brunel secured through an open market competitive tendering process. As often happens in the construction industry, the success of that project meant the owners were keen to see Brunel involved again.

“With the new Head Office building the project was continually re-priced through the design period. This wasn’t ever going to be a standard building and in this situation it’s easy for the cost to escalate.

“As the design developed we would refine our pricing, and in doing so ensured that the building remained within our client’s budget.”

Brunel Construction started life in 2007, founded by Haywood and construction manager Paul Anning, servicing the commercial, retail, education and health sectors in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato.

Peter Haywood says the somewhat cautious

property market has recently opened up into a more speculative space.

“There’s a definite shift these days toward committing projects without security of tenure, though the backbone of commercial growth in the area remains existing businesses expanding.”

The company took its name from Isambard Kingdom Brunel, an engineer at the fore-front of Victorian Britain renowned for his ability to problem solve and push the boundaries of his profession.

Early on the company’s evolution the founders decided to keep the business at a manageable size, resisting the temptation to further expand the company as their reputation grew. This was done because both Peter and Paul have a very hands-on approach.

“We would rather be involved in all projects to some degree.”

Other key staff include contracts manager David Woods who has been with the company since 2008, along with Margie O’Carroll the administration manager.

Five site foremen are at the coal-face of the physical building process overseeing the work of the 20 carpenters employed along with contract builders.

Nearly a decade on from founding Brunel Construction Ltd, Peter says he still enjoys coming to work every day.

“Paul and I said right from the outset that we didn’t want to start a company that would become all encompassing. We just want to do a good job, one we can step back from and be proud of. The Harcourts building is a great example of that standard.”

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Commercial >> Brunel Construction - 3rd Avenue Tauranga

Designed by leading Mt Maunganui architects First Principles Architects, the two storey Harcourts building services the day-to-day operation of the company but is also home to its auction rooms and head office.

Building’s timeless design When asked whether his well established architectural practice located in the Mount specialises in specific building modalities, Graham Price, founder of First Principles Architects has a simple answer.

“We pretty much go where our clients take us, with experience in the design for commercial, hospitality, residential, mixedresidential projects along with bespoke urban design.

“We are very much architects in the purest sense of the word as echoed in the name of our practice,” Graham says.

“The ‘First Principles’ in architecture means designing from first principles, with no preconceived ideas,” he says.

“It refers to the discipline of creating buildings and places by designing to the client’s brief and needs in relation to the site, to the environment and to the principles of sound spatial design.”

“This also takes into consideration the construction methodology, the budget, cultural intepretation and function.”

All elements of a building relate to each other and uphold these principles, so that the resulting design becomes the best holistic solution.

Graham and Kate, his wife and business partner, lead a very passionate and skilled team. Lizzie Cassidy who is an architectural graduate, worked closely with Graham as the mentor on the Harcourts design and is submitting the project as a case study toward her registration this year.

When discussions first began about its design, he says the owners came with an open-mind as to architectural appearance.

“The first part of their brief was they wanted a head office that would be expressed through a timeless architecture.”

“What was very important to them was to support local business and industry and give

something back to the community, in the form of an iconic building that would not date or be connected with a specific period of design.”

He says it was a privilege to work with an owner holding such altruistic ideals, who saw their head office building as a way they could give back in the form of fine architecture, something of great value to their own community.

The second part of their brief was about the function and spatial requirements of the building over two levels with on-site customer and staff car-parking.

Open plan spaces are easily accessible for clients and agents from the core office area for agents who frequently come and go during their working day.

On entering the foyer visitors view a bespoke sculptural timber panel, which also has acoustic absorption properties.

This use of timber is also reflected in the design of the open stairs and reception desk. The ground floor is a client area and leading directly from the auction room are five private customer rooms, so business can be conducted in confidence.

The whole upper floor is dedicated for Harcourt’s agents and staff, as well as management and Director’s offices and meeting rooms.

“It is a very sculptural building, with solid elements acting as book ends with angled raised seam cladding containing the glass canopy which is etched with a Pohutakawa design, supported by an elegant diagonal steel lattice structure.”

“There was a high level of trust in the team with an inspirational vision and the owners invested their heart and soul into their new building, which over time will be recognised as a truly iconic Tauranga commercial building.”

The Design Team of First Principles Architects are very proud to have worked closely with the Directors of Harcourts and Brunel Construction to create this visionary building in the city.

unit 1/17 banks avenue, mount maunganui

+64 7 574 6728

Building Innovations NZ 17

Commercial >> Freear Philp - Les Mills Lambton Quay

Firm gets in step with client on gym fitout Jo Bailey The Freaar Philip team overcame numerous challenges on the fit-out of the new Les Mills multi-million dollar, architecturally designed gymnasium on Lambton Quay in time for the move from its previous facilities.

“The project was completed in an incredibly tight timeframe of just over three months,” says Freear Philip director, Dan O’Hagan. “There was no wriggle room on the completion date, as the lease was running out at the old site on The Terrace, and the thousands of Les Mills members were expecting to make a seamless transition.”

The Wellington firm was the main contractor on the project, and Dan says its success was due to “careful programming and good forward planning”.

“Early in the project we identified critical lead time items that had to be carefully sequenced to enable the works to flow.

“Progress was closely monitored on a daily basis to see where the project was at against the projected programme, so any issues that came up were quickly addressed.”

The vibrant, upmarket studio-style club opened last October, after Les Mills took the opportunity to develop a bigger and better facility.

Three floors of an existing multi-storey building on Lambton Quay were competely gutted back to the building shell before works began to incorporate large gym spaces, studio rooms for group fitness classes, sizeable changing and bathroom facilities, and a striking reception and administration area.

Dan says Freear Philip did its best to minimise disruption to the building’s other tenants during the works, which included Television New Zealand.

“We worked quite closely with TVNZ around noise control, and often had to stop concrete drilling for an hour or so while they recorded the 6pm or late news.”

The project also had a “complex services component” in addition to the full spectrum of regular building services, he says.

Les Mills’ new multi-million dollar, architecturally designed gymnasium on Lambton Quay.

“Coordinating the installation of state-ofthe-art television and audio visual systems throughout the facility was a unique and challenging aspect of the fitout.

“The new gym had a much higher level of complexity than a standard build.”

Sustainable practices were employed

throughout the fitout works, with waste minimisation a big focus.

The Freear Philip took the brief a step further by recycling what had been a solid tawa squash court uplifted from another project, into a striking feature wall outside the changing rooms.

“The wall had been specified as bamboo by the architect.

“However Les Mills really liked the idea of repurposing the squash court that we machined down for wall panelling.”

• to page 20

Three floors of an existing multi-storey building were competely gutted back to the building shell before works began to incorporate large gym spaces, studio rooms for group fitness classes, sizeable changing and bathroom facilities.

Your project is in good hands

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18 Building Innovations NZ

Main contractor - Les Mills Lambton Quay Proud to deliver another quality project for Les Mills

www.freearphilip.co.nz

Commercial >> Freear Philp - Les Mills Lambton Quay

The vibrant, upmarket studio-style club opened last October, after Les Mills took the opportunity to develop a bigger and better facility.

Building Innovations NZ 19

Commercial >> Freear Philp - Les Mills Lambton Quay

The Les Mills Lambton Quay gym has a striking reception and administration area.

In step with client on fitout • from page 18 Dan O’Hagan says feedback for the new gym has been “great”, both from its users and the client Les Mills, for whom Freear Philip has completed all its projects in Wellington over the last 10 to 12 years.

“Les Mills invests a lot of money in the best materials to put together a top quality finish in its gymnasiums.

“They knew they could rely on us to go the extra mile to deliver this latest project to a high standard in a tight time-frame.”

Freear Philip will celebrate 50 years in business in 2016.

The company has been owned by the O’Hagan family for around 30 years, with Dan O’Hagan and his father Danny O’Hagan its current directors.

In addition to construction, the firm also provides painting and decorating; joinery

manufacture; relocations; and maintenance services.

“Having these divisions under one roof often gives us a competitive advantane as we can provide a range of services in-house to projects such as the new gymnasium, without relying on outside contractors.”

Freear Philip is currently doing a significant amount of educational work, with a new gymnasium under construction at Bishop Viard College; and a new classroom block being built at St Bernard’s College.

“We have a long history of delivering successful projects for corporations, government agencies, and city councils, and continue to enjoy a diverse portfolio of projects which also includes quite a lot of earthquake strengthening work.” says the firm’s next exciting challenge is to construct a new, modern ambulance base in Kapii for Wellington Free Ambulance.

Magdrive lets you in...

Congratulations to Les Mills on the opening of their Lambton Quay gym, where all visitors will enter the stylish main reception area through premium pedestrian barriers, designed and built by Auckland firm, Magdrive Technology Ltd.

automation systems, security access products and accessories such as PLC and inverter drives, keypads and remotes, detectors , CCTV, intercoms etc. which are sourced from the world’s leading manufacturers.

The PLC-SM barriers provide the gym franchise with seamless control of the movement of people into the facility, along with heightened security, and an aesthetic appeal in line with the gym’s upmarket, high-tech surroundings.

The range of swing and sliding gates are proudly New Zealand made in their Auckland factory from the highest quality, locally sourced materials. These gates have to be robust and reliable to meet strict security requirements, and stand up to a heavy workload.

Magdrive Technology has a longstanding relationship with the Les Mills franchise, putting in the first pedestrian barrier at Victoria Street, Auckland in the early 2000’s.

Since then the firm has fitted all the new Les Mills gyms throughout New Zealand, and other sites as they have been upgraded.

The technology that goes into the barriers including motors, drive units, and safety beams have improved since Magdrive Technology installed the first barrier for Les Mills. The original unit, which proved extremely robust and reliable over a decade of use, has recently received a control upgrade, which we expect to extend its life well into the future.

The company, established in 1978, has developed a number of unique product designs, the majority of which relate to the control of vehicles and pedestrians.

These include automated swing and sliding gates; traffic barriers; tripod and retractable barriers; pedestrian turnstiles; and car stackers.

It is also a distributor of premium gate

20 Building Innovations NZ

A good example are the gates manufactured for Fisher & Paykel which operate non-stop, and can rack up an estimated 20 kilometres in one day just moving backwards and forwards.

Many other large industrial, commercial and corporate organisations utilise Magdrive Technology’s automated gates to provide security for their operations.

The firm has completed high security work for the likes of Invercargill Prison, Ports of Auckland, Marsden Point Oil Refinery, and petroleum plants throughout New Zealand, and has a long client list of other major companies. It has also designed and built gates, including predator gates, for all of Auckland City Council’s regional parks.

One of Magdrive Technology’s strengths is its ability to design and manufacture high quality products to suit the customer’s specific requirements.

The company stands by its workmanship and the quality of its products, which are aimed at the high end of the market.

Feedback for the new gym has been “great”, both from its users and the client Les Mills, for whom Freear Philip has completed all its projects in Wellington over the last 12 years.

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Our Aim Since the founding of our company in 1978 we have not only gathered deep experience regarding traffic barriers, automatic gates and related products but we have continually refined and upgraded our products, keeping up to date with overseas developments at all times.

19-21 Greenpark Road, Penrose 1061, Auckland P.O. Box 112-337, Penrose 1642, Auckland Telephone +64-9-5257300 Fax +64-9-625 6731 Email sales@magdrive.co.nz

Commercial >> Macrennie Commercial Construction - Hellmann Logistics

Warehouse development breaks the mould Karen Phelps Macrennie Commercial Construction has just completed a large warehouse development for client Auckland International Airport, which Macrennie chief executive Steve Fowler says is “not your average warehouse”.

Located in the Landings Precinct of the airport on a prominent corner site the distinctively designed warehouse, which will be occupied by tenant Hellmann Logistics, features interesting design elements including an energy-efficient inclined glass curtain wall.

The concept architect for the project was RTA Studio with Eclipse Architects providing consulting services to achieve the final design.

Macrennie Commercial Construction started construction of the project in October last year and Steve Fowler says it was a relatively tight time frame for the large complex build, which involves several buildings: a 7500 square metre warehouse, 3500sqm metre coolstore and 1500sqm of offices.

Including the canopies and breezeways the total building area is 15,000 square metres.

Constructed from structural steel and Colorsteel, Macrennie Commercial Construction also completed the interior fitout delivering a turnkey project to the client.

The project also includes post-tension slab, laid after the roof was installed to ensure a joint-less finish with reduced risk of cracking

and shrinkage due to interference from the weather, says Steve.

Macrennie Commercial Construction also completed the earthworks for the project, something that Fowler says the company prefers to undertake if possible.

“It creates a seamless approach and means we are not waiting around for other contractors. It gives us much greater control over project timing and delivery.

“That was important in this project as we were constructing several different buildings, all at different stages of completion, simultaneously.”

At peak Macrennie Commercial Construction was managing 150 staff and subcontractors on site.

Steve Fowler says the project demonstrates the company’s ability to coordinate projects effectively and efficiently.

Macrennie Commercial Construction was established in 1980 and has built up a reputation as a major player in the construction of warehouses.

The company is owned by Fowler, construction manager Tim O’Leary and projects manager Bryce Caldwell and provides construction services in the Auckland region, typically assuming the role of head contractor.

Macrennie Commercial Construction employ construction industry professional managers, technicians, tradespeople and labourers.

• to page 22

SunBuild Contracting Joint Sealants & Waterproofing are proud to be associated with Cementitious & Epoxy Grouting Hellmann Developments Fire Rating to Structural Steel Commercial & Industrial Spray Coatings 48 Walls Road, Penrose P.O. Box 112-148, Auckland 1642 Tel: 09 580 4036 Fax: 09 580 4037

Neville Kennerley Mobile: 027 253 7035 Email: neville@sunbuild.co.nz

Building Innovations NZ 21

Commercial >> Macrennie Commercial Construction - Hellmann Logistics

Warehouse development breaks the mould • From page 21 This allows the company to provide in-house project management, quantity surveying, civil engineering, programming, accountancy, carpentry, site management and concreting.

Many projects the company undertakes are for repeat clients and early contractor engagement is the norm as opposed to the traditional tendering process, says Steve.

Long term clients include Goodman Ltd, Auckland Airport, Location Group, James Kirkpatrick Ltd and Southpark Corp Ltd. Steve Fowler says a key point of difference is that all of the company’s directors are ‘hands on’ and involved heavily in the day to day running of the business.

“One of the company directors is involved in each project. We also employ our own tradespeople on staff as well as 13 site managers over ten of whom have been with the company for over 15 years.”

He says that this gives the company greater control over project delivery and quality levels as well as resulting in increased staff ‘buy in’, which has a direct effect on the company’s performance.

“Everyone has a vested interest in a positive outcome for the client.

“If a staff member has been with the company a long time then they know how we operate and our approach to construction and project delivery.

“A lot of our clients have built up a relationship with our site managers and they request a particular person to manage their project so this brings continuity benefits for our clients.

“Being on site the directors can make critical decisions quickly. It provides a more seamless approach.”

Steve says that Macrennie Commercial Construction recognises the importance of employing skilled staff and so the company places great emphasis on training apprentices.

The company generally employs around five or six apprentices and takes on two to three new apprentices each year.

Including the canopies and breezeways the total building area is 15,000 square metres.

“Apprentices generally stay with us after they finish their training.

“Some of our site managers started with the company as apprentices. This brings stability to our workforce, as we know we have new resource coming through.

“It’s about succession planning to meet future demand.”

The company is presently constructing 12 projects including Quad 7, a major office

Electrical Consulting Services Ltd and Thurston Consulting Ltd are proud to be associated with the electrical and mechanical building ervices design for AIAL Hellmann project.

22 Building Innovations NZ

development, for Auckland International Airport and an office/warehouse for Fuji located at the airport.

Steve says that while the commercial market is slowing slightly the apartment market is picking up.

He says that Macrennie Commercial Construction is careful to achieve a balance between completing commercial and industrial projects and apartments in order

to future-proof the company.

For Macrennie Commercial Construction the focus remains on servicing loyal clients.

“We didn’t head down to Christchurch like a lot of other construction firms because our major thrust is always to firstly look after the clients that have been loyal to us over the years.

“We aim to continue to service this client base and service it well.”

Constructa Built Ltd Professional Building Contractors and Commercial Subcontractors

John Nelson www.ecservices.co.nz

Ph. 021 739 689 E. constructabuilt@xtra.co.nz P.O. Box 139 Beachlands

Commercial >> Macrennie Commercial Construction - Hellmann Logistics

The distinctively designed warehouse, which will be occupied by tenant Hellmann Logistics, features interesting design elements including an energy-efficient inclined glass curtain.

Proud to be associated with Hellmann Development

Ward Chandler Electrical has been serving the construction industry for over 50 years and has a vast array of expertise to draw upon to the provide a solution for the toughest of challenges.

We are proud have worked successfully with Mcrennie to construct the new Hellmann Worldwide Logistics Centre

188 Station Road, Penrose

simon@kiwiroofing.co.nz

09 579 0104

www.wardchandler.co.nz

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Building on trust With an emphasis on excellence, quality and teamwork. Macrennie is proud to be the main construction contractor for Hellmann Logistics.

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Building Innovations NZ 23

Commercial >> Colin O’Neill Builders - High St Rangiora

New building reflects town’s heritage Jo Bailey Rangiora builder Colin O’Neill and his team are putting their craftsmanship skills to good use on a new commercial building in the North Canterbury town.

“The building has been designed in a traditional style to match the character and charm of the heritage buildings on High Street,” says Colin.

“It has features such as arched windows, decorative work on the front and lacework on the canopy. We’ve had a lot of positive comments about it,” he says.

The 1377sqm building is on a high profile site in the heart of the town’s main thoroughfare, and replaces a building that was demolished after the earthquakes.

It has two retail spaces downstairs, and office space upstairs that can be configured into various sizes.

Colin O’Neill Builders started on site last October, and was expecting to hand over the project this month.

Apart from the decorative features, O’Neill says it has been a standard commercial build, with tilt slab walls, which have been strapped, lined and insulated on the inside.

With the project nearing completion, it is almost ready for tenants to fit the spaces out to their own specifications and move in, with one retail tenant already secured.

Commercial fit-out work is another specialist service offered by Colin O’Neill Builders, which has completed projects for clients as diverse as ANZ Bank (fitting out branches in both Rangiora and Christchurch), Rangiora Veterinary Centre, and Church Corner Medical Centre.

“With our fit-out and finishing capabilities we are able to project manage commercial builds right through to completion,” he says.

At this stage, O’Neill is unsure if the company will provide fit-out services for its current project.

“It really depends on the tenants, as some of the larger companies work with their own preferred contractors.”

Commercial fit-out work is another specialist service offered by Colin O’Neill Builders.

This is the third project the firm has completed for local developers Rangiora Holdings, following construction of the new Noel Leemings store at the eastern end of Rangiora, and fit-out works for the adjacent Asian warehouse and sushi store.

“They are always a pleasure to work for.”

O’Neill has been building in North Canterbury since the early 1970s.

He became self-employed in 1981, and started Colin O’Neill Builders in 1997, with wife Jackie as co-director.

Today the Licensed Building Practitioners and Master Builders employ six staff and specialise in architectural and commercial work.

“We seem to have runs in particular types of work.

“We’ve been doing a lot of commercial work lately, but the residential side is busy again and we’re about to start a large house at Springbank.”

Other large commercial buildings constructed and project managed by the firm in Rangiora include the Carters building, Riverstone Motels, and new premises for Rangiora Mazda, which are all in Southbrook on the southern outskirts of the town.

On the residential side, Colin O’Neill Builders works with several architects,

Colin O’Neill

P: 03 313 7202 | E: colin@oneillbuilders.co.nz | M: 0274 340 306 24 Building Innovations NZ

“We take a lot of pride in our work and are proud of the reputation we have earned for quality workmanship and reliability.”

Specialist in commercial and residential design work throughout the North Canterbury area.

Builders Ltd

Colin O’Neill | 201B West Belt | Rangiora

completing numerous projects for Sheppard & Rout and Courtney Architects Designers.

“Versatility is important in a small town like Rangiora.

“Whatever the project we take a lot of pride in our work and are proud of the reputation we have earned for quality workmanship and reliability.”

Proudly supporting Colin O’Neil Builders

Phone. 03 312 2502 Mobile. 027 478 7690 Email. archdesignco@clear.net.nz

Commercial >> Colin O’Neill Builders - High St Rangiora

The new High Street building has been designed in a traditional style to match the character and charm of the street’s heritage buildings.

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Proud suppliers of Aluminium Joinery to Colin O’Neill Builders

Ph 366 5637 31 Disraeli Street PO Box 9083 Christchurch Email: raylight@xtra.co.nz Building Innovations NZ 25

Timber and Wood Products - NZ Timber Industry Federation

Timber holding its own in building sector Jo Bailey Since pre-European settlement, New Zealanders have used timber to create sustainable, comfortable living environments, with this traditional building material still as popular as ever.

Kevin Hing, director of the New Zealand Timber Industry Federation (NZTIF) says timber’s natural qualities such as strength, durability, warmth, beauty, and seismic strength have kept it at the forefront of the industry.

“Timber is also the kindest construction material to the environment.

“It comes from a plentiful, renewable source and is incredibly cost-effective.”

He says other factors, such as thermal and electrical insulation, and reduced condensation issues make timber a superior product; with “innovative” new engineered wood products like LVL (laminated veneer lumber); glue-laminated timber; and crosslaminated timber, proving “exciting” for the industry.

“These products have been developed with superior strength and seismic resistance, attributes that are particularly well suited to the Christchurch rebuild.”

Studies by the University of Canterbury have demonstrated that buildings with timber framing and timber piled foundations came through the Canterbury earthquakes “very well”, ahead of other construction materials and methods.

Hing says although there has been a marked shift away from traditional timber foundations to concrete slab construction over the last 20 or 30 years, timber floor systems are coming back into vogue.

“Building on raised timber floors allows a house to breathe, and when used in conjunction with modern insulation materials, delivers a warm, healthier home, with good seismic resistance.”

Timber piled floor systems also provide ease of access for the installation, maintenance or repair of services such as electrical wiring, plumbing, and IT cabling under the house.

“A timber floor system also readily copes

Timber’s natural qualities such as strength, durability, warmth, beauty, and seismic strength have kept it at the forefront of the industry. with the rolling and often hilly typography found in this country, without builders having to do the vast amount of earthworks required for a concrete foundation.”

Hing says New Zealand has “ample supply” of quality stress-graded product that is fit for purpose and meets the Building Code requirements for durability.

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26 Building Innovations NZ

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Timber and Wood Products

Azotek enhances LVL The durability and efficacy of NelsonPine LVL (laminated veneer lumber) has been enhanced by an innovative glue line treatment, called Azotek.

Developed by Zelam in conjunction with Nelson Pine Industries Ltd, this new generation of timber treatments is more environmentally friendly than traditional treatments, with no smell, colour, or heavy metals which could pollute the environment or corrode metal fasteners.

Andy Van Houtte, Nelson Pine Industries’ Australasian sales engineer says another of the unique things about Azotek is that it is incorporated into the manufacturing process rather than being applied to the LVL product post manufacture.

“This provides full penetration protection, gives the product far greater stability, and produces a tighter tolerance, which is very important in frame and truss fabrication processes.”

Timber treatments have had a bad rap in the past, but this one “ticks all the boxes”, particularly given it is a more natural product, that is benign to humans, he says.

Since it was released to the market two years ago there has been a “very good uptake” of Azotek treated NelsonPine LVL which is manufactured from timber sourced in 100 percent renewable plantations.

“The strength and durability of the product has made it particularly popular in the South Island where there issues with snow loads and seismic activity.”

Andy says the straighter frames produced in LVL make it a high performance alternative to solid timber, increasing flexibility for architects and designers of residential homes.

“LVL produces very straight walls that assist with the construction process and provide an opportunity for architects to include special features or high-spec finishes in the homes.”

Another advantage of the product is that it can be manufactured in long continuous lengths, which also increases productivity through the fabrication process.

“This product has many advantages and is a great option for residential projects of any size and scale,” says Van Houtte.

Nelson Pine has also manufactured LVL for a number of high profile commercial projects, such as the new Kaikoura District Council offices.

“This is one of the first buildings to feature a unique combination of differnet timber technologies, including LVL post and beam, Potius floor and roof panels, and cross laminated timber/LVL shear walls.”

Among the many other commercial projects using NelsonPine LVL are Tait Communication’s head office in Christchurch which is one of the largest timber buildings in the Southern Hemisphere; the Waitomo Caves visitor entrance area; College of Creative Arts in Wellington, Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology building in Nelson; and New South Wales Netball Centre in Australia which hosted the recent Netball World Championships.

Nelson Pine commissioned its LVL plant in 2002, and has manufactured GoldenEdge MDF since 1986.

“We believe the addition of the Azotek glue line treatment will further enhance the reputation of NelsonPine LVL as a leading construction material for New Zealand building conditions.”

Northland pine excels Radiata pine trees grown in Northland are scientifically proven to produce the strongest, stiffest and densest pine timber in New Zealand - characteristics being harnessed by Northpine Ltd. The award-winning Waipu sawmill processes radiata pine sourced from sustainablymanaged Northland forests to produce top quality structural timber components for house framing; while from its distribution yard in Silverdale, Northpine produces its specialist Northbeam range of structural beams and posts, including large-dimension beams and long-length and H5 treated timber.

These aesthetically pleasing, high-value products are generally preferred for use in exposed areas where the natural warmth and beauty of solid wood provides visual impact and unique character to a structure.

With Northbeam products, framing can be turned into a truly distinctive feature with exposed timber beams and joists.

The range also provides flexibility and the opportunity to create eye-catching designs for outdoor features such as decks, gazebos or pergolas. Strength is another key characteristic of the Northbeam range, which is processed from kiln-dried timber carefully selected to ensure it is structurally strong and dimensionally stable.

The result is high quality timber with structural performance that is competitive with steel or engineered wood products.

In addition to the large dimension or unusual sized products regularly processed under its Northbeam range, Northpine will

also consider making one-off production runs for clients at its Waipu sawmill.

The complete range of standard structural components for house framing is also manufactured at the Waipu sawmill.

These components, all made from Northland pine, provide the basis of what has become a growing, locally-based value added industry. The quality of all Northpine products is rigorously tested, with structural timber graded in process and samples placed under stress to ensure each batch of timber meets New Zealand Standard requirements.

This testing regime is also independently verified by a third party accreditor Graderight.

Northpine products are sold throughout Auckland and Northland via independent building merchants, with a limited product range sold in Australia via wholesalers.

Northpine Ltd takes its environmental responsibilities seriously and works hard to minimise any adverse impact of its operations on the environment. It is also an enthusiastic supporter of its local community through a range of sponsorships and initiatives. The firm is constantly looking to identify new products and systems that meet the needs of its customers and provide them with high-value solutions.

With a steady stream of maturing, structurally superior pine logs available in Northland for the foreseeable future, Northpine’s vision of being a sustainable, specialist sawmill is coming to fruition.

Building Innovations NZ 27

Timber and Wood Products - NZ Timber Industry Federation

Timber at industry forefront • from page 26 For almost a century, the NZTIF has been a “global champion” for New Zealand timber, and has supported the domestic sawmilling industry, having an influential role in shaping the industry and building a sound platform for its growth.

One of the Federation’s latest initiatives is a Timber Quality Scheme, which it has developed in partnership with the Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association in conjunction with MBIE. “This quality assurance programme for timbers used in construction focuses on two properties. The first is durability, which is enhanced by timber treatment, and the second is the physical properties of the timber.”

Independent auditors will visit production sites to ensure the required specifications for timber treatment and physical properties are being met, and comply with the recognised standards.

“This is a good thing for consumers, who can be reassured the timber used in their home or building project meets the highest standards.”

Renewable forestry plantations make up around six percent of the land area in New Zealand, with the main species being Radiata Pine and Douglas Fir. “Almost all the timber used in New Zealand construction is sourced from these sustainably managed plantation forests and not from our indigenous forests.”

Annually New Zealand sawmills produce around 4 million cubic metres of timber, cutting about 7.2 million cubic metres of logs in the process.

Hing says more than 50 percent of this sawn timber production is exported, with most ending up in the three main markets of Australia, China and the United States, and smaller amounts going to Asia, the Middle East, Europe and the Pacific.

“The industry has experienced tough times in recent years. Our mature market in the US was hit hard by the GFC, although we are seeing improvements again now. There has been strong growth into China over the last 10 years but recent news makes future growth there more uncertain.”

Australia is a long term, traditional market, which uses New Zealand timber mainly for construction and outdoor uses, such as decking. Domestically, the Canterbury rebuild is having a positive impact on the local timber market although Hing says a boost to the number of homes being built in Auckland to address the housing shortage would also help.

He says New Zealand’s unbroken tradition of timber use in housing has served the country well and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

“We have a reputation as one of the best timber producers in the world and are fortunate to have a plentiful, sustainable supply of high quality timber that will more than meet the future needs of the New Zealand market.”

“Timber is also the kindest construction material to the environment. It comes from a plentiful, renewable source and is incredibly cost-effective.”

New Zealand sawmills produce around 4 million cubic metres of timber each year.

Log homes gain traction A construction methodology dating back hundreds of years in Europe and North America is now gaining traction in New Zealand, with today’s new home builders finding the warmth, strength, natural beauty, and sustainability they are looking for in handcrafted log homes.

Owner and manager of Natural Log Homes Graeme Mould has been building handcrafted log homes for more than 25 years, crafting a business out of his passion for log construction. He says log construction in New Zealand is still reasonably new, and Natural Log Homes is now building for a younger generation which wants different and interesting things.

He and his team are now building three homes at a time with another three more ready to start construction. As such, the company has recently invested in a tower crane, the greatest piece of equipment it has had thus far, installed in its Geraldine yard and enabling the production of more homes at a time, more efficiently.

“There are different reasons why people like log homes,” Graeme says.

“Some people like the wood, others like to be able to see the logs fitted together to make a wall with joins so tight you can’t get a piece of paper between them.

“Some people like the strength of construction, the handcrafted and natural beauty, or the eco-friendliness of minimally processed, natural materials.”

He says Natural Log Homes is currently using some of the Southern Hemisphere’s best Douglas Fir trees, coming into the yard from the Blakely Pacific Forest 10 minutes up the road.

“These trees are grown to be used as timber,” he says.

28 Building Innovations NZ

“They are about 45 years old, have a dense cell structure and make a naturally beautiful looking timber.”

Natural Log Homes is also often able to purchase and build from some of the finest cypress and cedar logs in the world, well known for their exceptional resistance to weather and decay.

Logs arrive in the yard with their bark on, a convenient protective wrapper protecting them during transportation.

Each log is measured and inventoried, and its unique characteristics noted. The bark is then carefully removed with sharp drawknives.

The log home shell is then handcrafted at the company’s Geraldine site, then disassembled and shipped by container to the customer’s prepared site.

Natural Log Homes then arrives on site to reassemble the home, a process which usually takes about three or four days.

“All our customers engage a local, conventional builder to prepare their site, build their foundation and floor, and once we have assembled the home, install the roof, doors, and windows, bathrooms and kitchens, and small internal walls.’

Natural Log Homes has completed large and small log projects from cabins, to family homes and large guest houses, all across New Zealand, Australia, US, and Japan.

Graeme has started a consultancy role since the Christchurch earthquakes, becoming the go-to expert on log construction for various EQC assessments.

He is also the current president of the Log Builders Association of New Zealand (LBANZ), and has been the hands-on tutor for its log building courses for nearly 20 years.

Leading the way in creating healthy homes A new movement called Health Based Building™ is leading the way in the construction of chemical-free environments that are healthier, warmer and drier.

This environmentally-beneficial construction philosophy is being promoted by New Zealand Sustainable Forest Products (NZSFP) in partnership with its exclusive Nationwide distributors Hardie & Thomson, says NZSFP chief executive, Robin Curtis.

“We hope to have our educational and demonstration area ready within the next four months where architects, builders, design students or anyone interested in chemical free construction can visit to gain a better understanding of these products.”

"Within the next few months our partnership will be launching a new online shop called healthbasedbuilding.com, which will sell a range of value-added, health based construction materials and products for the home."

“We are committed to the removal of harmful chemicals and high moisture levels from our built environments via breathable materials and a move away from airtight building envelopes.

Robin says the ma jority of harmful chemicals in traditional built environments remain untested, and a “chemical cocktail effect” is created when the chemicals encapsulated in interior products, decorative coatings and high moisture levels are trapped within an airtight shell.

The native New Zealand red and sil ver beech we harvest and process are true hardwoods, which provide unique durability, appearance and strength.

“Indoor air quality has been estimated by EPA and WHO to be an average of five to 10 times unhealthier than outside air. This is something we are determined to address.”

NZSFP harvests the bulk of New Zealand’s beech and rimu, producing a range of kiln-dried solid timber at its Reefton sawmill, which is sold through Hardie & Thomson.

“The native New Zealand red and silver beech we harvest and process are true hardwoods, which provide unique durability, appearance and strength.”

“We are producing our own range of Foreverbeech products to be sold on the site, everything from furniture, to breadboards, cleaning products and babies’ bassinets.”

“We are working with furniture manufacturers to develop the Foreverbeech furniture brand, and have partnered with a Motueka firm Natural House Company to harness plant-based chemistry in the production of the Foreverbreathe oil coatings.”

Together the companies have developed and gathered an exclusive product range under the Health Based Building™ banner, which includes a high-performance breathable wall system called Foreverbreathe; Magnum Board Rigid Air Barrier and Weatherboards; Biopin natural paints; and the Foreverbeech range of chemical-free timber flooring, paneling, decking, cladding and veneers, for which NZSFP already has a strong market niche.

The full product range is also available from Hardie & Thomson’s Whangarei branch, where demand for its health based products has increased significantly.

Robin says houses constructed using a combination of these harmful chemical-free products are warmer, drier, free of mould, and don’t require mechanical air transfer systems.

Robin Curtis says the Health Based Building™ initiative has taken nearly five years of intensive development, and both NZSFP and Hardie & Thomson continue to evolve and create new products in partnership with other firms.

A new education and sales facility is being constructed at Hardie & Thomson’s Christchurch site (located between Colombo and Sherborne Streets), which is currently undergoing a complete redevelopment, using chemical-free materials.

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“We hope to build a space where companies with similar ethics and sustainable values can sell their products, and where consumers can be assured of a level of standards and accountability.”

“Through these products we have established an affordable way for people to establish healthy built environments and support the true meaning of sustainability in house sized chunks."

Timber and Wood Products >> TimberLab Solutions

Merger brings innovation and efficiencies Jo Bailey The 2012 merger of two New Zealand companies at the forefront of engineered timber services and products, has led to innovations in the sector under the new brand TimberLab Solutions.

Sales and marketing director Owen Griffiths says since McIntosh Timber Laminates (pioneers of Glulam for over 50 years), and TimberBond Industries (which specialised in the residential market), joined forces, they have built greater momentum and can supply the industry more effectively.

“I see a real future for Glulam and engineered timber, particularly in commercial applications, where we can save clients considerable time and costs.”

Auckland-based TimberLab specialises in the design, manufacture, supply and installation supervision of packaged timber structures for projects around the world.

It is a manufacturer of Glulam building systems, complete midfloor packages, Glulam projects with arches, portals, bridges, reverse curved shapes, spiral twists and long span beams; as well as multi-storey fabricated LVL structures.

Owen says the introduction of a large, fiveaxis CNC processing machine has created a “step change” in the company’s capability.

“We introduced the new machine around 12 months ago.

“It is the first of its type in Australasia and has positioned us to meet the future capability of engineered timber designed structures in New Zealand and abroad.”

He says the CNC machine allows the firm to produce a significant amount of fine detail work in shaping, cutting and profiling to exact dimensions, which opens up new possibilities for the way designers, architects and engineers look at engineered timber structures.

“We can achieve incredibly accurate and repeatable detailing, with the capability to develop fine detail in joints and more efficient connections of timber. This is a major benefit.”

With the timber components “slotted, drilled and rebated” before they leave the factory, the on-site cutting and processing is largely eliminated, he says.

Factory prefabrication of 3 storey post tension seismic resistant portal frame – the first of its kind in New Zealand.

“Ease and speed of construction are some of the major benefits to the end user,” says Owen.

“There is also less wastage, which meets today’s requirements for environmental sustainability.”

Owen says the firm’s “area of greatest expertise” is the development of project work, offering complete structural solutions to clients using engineered timber.

“We can provide assistance on design, and will carry out complete pre-fabrication of all the structural elements of a building including connections.”

Around 65 percent of TimberLab’s production is destined for international projects, with the firm supplying laminated timber structures to more than 30 countries.

Its diverse range of commercial, residential and community projects have included sports stadiums, swimming pools, university and school buildings, church halls, bridges, factories, hotels and resorts.

One of its most spectacular projects was providing precisely dimensioned Glulam blocks for the stunning and highly complex Frank Gehry designed, Dr Chau Chak Wing Building Oval Room for the University of Technology in Sydney.

“This was an outstanding project for our team.”

TimberLab’s projects in New Zealand

include providing the timber backbone for the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, and structural components for Te Uru Taumatua, the official headquarters for Tuhoe iwi, which was the first Living Building Project in New Zealand.

“Over the last few years we’ve had a particular focus on multi-storied timber post tensioned structures that have been developed for seismic resistance.

“We have also have been part of a resource consortium looking at damage resistance in earthquake areas.”

TimberLab carried out the complex manufacture of the multi-storied post tension solution to the Trimble Building in Christchurch that was a winner at the recent Timber Design Awards.

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The new CNC 5-axis machine is capable of detailed machining and profiling.

“Our aim is to be the best provider of innovative, cost-effective and customised engineered timber solutions throughout New Zealand and to offshore markets.” www.timberlab.co.nz

30 Building Innovations NZ

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Christchurch Rebuild >> New Haven Rebuild

New Haven has rebuild needs covered Kelly Deeks Christchurch opt-out decorating and construction company New Haven Rebuild is now working with home owners who are considering cash settlement offers from their insurance companies, advising them not to accept any offer unless they are sure it will be enough to cover the cost of the repair or rebuild of their home.

New Haven Rebuild is offering a free, full consultation package for residential EQC optout projects.

This includes construction advice, property assessments, repair and rebuild costings, and project management solutions.

Managing director Peter Lucas project manages repairs, rebuilds, and renovations from the foundations to the roof with a full team of professional painters and decorators on staff, and a specialist team of industry trade contractors he has been working with for more than 12 years.

Peter started his business with his wife Donna in 2003, having followed his passion for painting since age 17 and completing his advanced trade certificate at Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology.

“I subcontracted to other painters and builders, learning how they ran their businesses, why their clients chose them, and finding what I liked about painting,” he says.

“I found I prefer working directly with clients, and I spent about nine years talking with people, hearing their stories and finding out why they are choosing to do what they’re doing.”

When demand for painting and decorating services skyrocketed following the Christchurch earthquakes, Peter rebranded and built up New Haven Rebuild from his one man band to a staff of 25, including licensed builder Kevin Lynch completing building and renovation work.

The company gained extensive knowledge

New Haven Rebuild has gained extensive knowledge of contractor’s responsibilities to meet EQC documentation requirements. during this time of contractor’s responsibilities to meet EQC documentation requirements.

It also maintained its clean health and safety record while providing a range of interior and exterior painting and decorating services for all substrates and surfaces, and gib stopping and plastering to a level five finish.

After a couple of years and becoming disillusioned with the nature of working in

“Now I can look after my clients’ entire projects from the roof to the foundations, whether it is only an earthquake repair or they want to have additional renovations done at the same time.” the rebuild market, Peter realised what he really wanted was to be able to spend more time with his clients, and work with them personally to achieve their requirements.

“That’s where opt out came in,” he says.

“Now I can look after my clients’ entire projects from the roof to the foundations, whether it is only an earthquake repair or they want to have additional renovations done at the same time.

“I do each job personally and make sure they’re satisfied with their repair or renovation.

“I have a great team of subcontractors which I have been working with for several years, and still look after my decorating business with five full time staff.”

Today’s earthquake rebuild market is based a lot around people being paid out for their repairs and rebuilds with a cash settlement

from their insurance companies.

“We just want to make sure that before people are accepting their pay outs, that they have checked the amount they have been offered is going to cover the repairs,” he says.

“With our free consultation package, we go back through their house and check that everything has been covered, and provide the right advice and the right price to repair or rebuild their home.”

Peter is available seven days a week for appointments, and with an emphasis on personalised service, there is only one person for clients to contact with any questions.

“I’m the one that’s on the end of the phone and I’m available 24/7,” he says.

The opt out form can be downloaded from the New Haven Rebuild website, and more information and guides to opting out can also be found there.

Wallpapering • Painting • Plastering Full Decorating • Interior • Exterior

EQC Opt out Painters & Decorators Christchurch based owned and operated 724 Old West Coast Road, West Melton, Christchurch • 021 913-171 • newhavenrebuild.co.nz Building Innovations NZ 31

Residential >> Masterbuilt - Seafield Road

Masterbuilt makes dream become reality Karen Phelps A home constructed by Wanganui-based company Masterbuilt reflects the culmination of nearly 40 years of building experience and innovation, says company director Paddy O’Donnell.

Located on the cliff top of Seafield Road, O’Donnell says the client approached Masterbuilt with a dream in their head, which Masterbuilt then sought to realise.

“We work with clients that want distinctive homes, something out of the ordinary, and this client was seeking a high quality build with a difference,” he says.

New Homes | Property Development | Light Commercial Building

PO Box 705, Wanganui | Phone 06 347 415 | Mobile 021 979 160 Email paddy@masterbuild.co.nz | www.masterbuilt.co.nz

The resulting 420sqm home, which is located 30 metres up a bank with sea views making for a challenging build, appears to “float” along the top of the bank, says Paddy.

“The site had to be filled ten metres deep in order to even start building.”

The home comprises three bedrooms, study/music room, bathroom, ensuite and two-car garage and incorporates a distinctive 13m x 7m lounge/dining room.

Features such as honed concrete blocks used at the entrance, cedar rain shields used at the entranceway and under windows and copper flashings contrast with the Rockcote Integra exterior cladding system.

The build also includes a number of hidden features such as a Thermoplastic roof membrane on 90mm urethane foam insulation to provide insulation under the surface of the roof where it would normally sit on the ceiling lining, explains Paddy.

“This means that there is no cold area above the ceiling but underneath the roof making for a warmer home,” he says.

The home also includes double glazed

argon filled low-e glass with thermally broken aluminium frames for added warmth.

Another innovative feature is a posttensioned polished concrete floor.

Due to the process used the floor has no saw cuts making for a seamless finish.

The home is an example of the highly detailed projects, which the company thrives on.

The company, which had its beginnings in 1990 and rebranded to Masterbuilt three years ago, was started by Paddy, a Licensed Building Practitioner, who now offers nearly 40 years of experience to his clients.

Paddy says he felt compelled to start Masterbuilt after working for franchise builders and realising their limitations.

“We want to focus more on quality than quantity,” he says. “For us it’s about the process of dealing one on one with clients from start to finish.

“I have a huge amount of knowledge from previously working in franchised systems and after building 200 homes I believe I can offer clients the best of both worlds – all the

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Residential >> Masterbuilt - Seafield Road

The house has a post-tensioned polished concrete floor. The process means the floor has no saw cuts making for a seamless finish.

Photos: Lewis Gardner Photography

benefits of a franchise builder but without any of the limitations.”

Masterbuilt doesn’t offer any set plans and only takes on design and build projects to ensure each client’s house is truly unique.

Clients can either come with their own plans or Masterbuilt can manage the process for them from design to finish.

Masterbuilt also offers house and land packages. It is presently offering packages in the company’s own subdivision in Poynter Place as well as Purnell Street and Gilligan Close – all in Wanganui.

In Poynter Place the company is offering houses from 140-240 square metres on 600 square metre sections.

While the company has plans designed to

suit each site customers can also come with their own plans if they prefer. The Poynter Place showhome is open by appointment.

Masterbuilt, which is a member of Registered Master Builders and HazardCo, also takes on light commercial projects and earthquake strengthening work and recently completed a project for Pita Pit in Victoria Avenue, Wanganui, strengthening the façade of the building.

With son James - who has a degree in business management and property valuation - recently joining the family business, Paddy O’Donnell says the company will utilise his expertise and continue to develop land as well as offering high quality one off homes to clients.

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Residential >> Roger Ramsey Building

Waikato company looks for more diversity Jo Bailey Waikato builder Roger Ramsey may have been in the building trade for more than 30 years, but he is far from complacent.

In the last 18 months, he and wife Justine have extended the focus of their company Roger Ramsey Building, in order to provide more diversity, and a buffer against the fluctuations of the rural market.

The construction of farm sheds, workshops, new farm homes, and renovations and alterations to farmers’ homes and workers’ cottages used to make up the bulk of the firm’s portfolio.

But with rural work growing increasingly seasonal, the Ramsey’s decided to extend the company’s focus to include more urban residential and commercial work, and have since developed a strong niche in the renovation and alternations market throughout Waikato.

“This has become a key market for us,” says Roger.

The firm offers full project management “from day one” for renovations and alterations projects, matching clients with the most appropriate draughts-people and architects to carry out their designs, then guiding them through the costings, consents and construction process.

“We are happy to work with a customer’s existing subcontractors if they have them, or can bring in people we use and recommend.

It’s a complete package.”

The Ramseys have put a lot of effort into actively marketing the firm and raising its profile, particularly through its new website, company branding, signage and joining the

Roger Ramsey Building has extended its focus to include more urban residential and commercial work.

Registered Master Builders Association of NZ which have all helped it to break into new markets.

The growth has also led to the addition of

new staff, with four qualified tradesmen now working alongside Roger on the building team, and an administrator helping Justine, who looks after the marketing and accounts.

“We set the bar pretty high with our staff and only employ the best guys we can find.

With top quality tradesmen on the team we can handle jobs a little bit outside what the average builder might take on.”

Roger says the company’s “biggest point of difference” is that it doesn’t start a job until it can give clients 100 percent of its time.

“Once we start a job we don’t leave until it’s completed. We have a minimum of two guys on site every day.”

Respect on the job site is particularly important when it comes to renovation and alterations work, he says.

“We are often walking into clients’ homes in the morning as they are walking out to go to work.

“It is critical they feel their homes and

possessions are being well looked after and respected.”

With the rural and urban markets well covered, he says the firm gets to work in some unique locations.

“We’re currently working on the major refurbishment of a beach house right on the waterfront at Aotea, which includes gutting the whole building, replacing asbestos cladding with cedar cladding, adding a new roof, and a detached master bedroom.”

Despite its significant focus on the renovations and alternations market, the firm still has a strong affinity with rural projects and also works on new homes and light commercial builds, he says.

“The rural market is what we built the business on and is definitely still important to us.

“Justine and I grew up on farms and we live on a small farm, so always enjoy relating to farmers and completing projects for them.”

“We are happy to work with a customer’s existing subcontractors if they have them, or can bring in people we use and recommend. It’s a complete package.”

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Residential >> Barrett Homes

Newcomer setting the pace in the Bay Sue Russell Mt Maunganui home building company Barrett Homes has established a strong presence in the local market since its founding two years ago.

The company, led by Mike Bryant and Grant Eynon, employs a team of six core staff and has up to 40 contractors it engages to construct its homes.

Mike says Barrett Homes is one of the fastest growing residential building companies operating in the Bay of Plenty, something he puts down to a combination of good timing, entering the market as the squeeze of the global financial crisis was ending.

“At the moment we have 50-70 projects on the go at various stages but we very much started with the idea to do 10 homes really really well and see what evolved from there.”

Key to its success he says is focusing “110%” on the customer and consistently surpassing their expectations.

“But it’s not necessarily they are always right you know. It is about guiding the customer along and introducing new ways of thinking based on our experiences.”

While describing the company as a group house building business, Mike says there are significant differences in approach with respect to design and material standards.

“When visitors come to our show-room they are often really surprised at what our homes offer as standard. Things like chrome showers, polished concrete and fibre optics.”

When asked how the company can successfully manage so many projects on their books at the same time Mike says it comes down to doing everything in-house from day one, working with great systems and accessing the services of earth-work/drainage company Aluvian Contracting which he owns along with Vision Design which he has an interest in.

“Everything is done on square metre rates and though we have grown substantially in a relatively short space of time our systems are solid. We certainly never wanted to lose the personal touch. I like to be around the traps and I’m definitely not a back-seat driver.”

Barrett Homes is one of the fastest growing residential building companies operating in the Bay of Plenty.

The company has a show-home at Welcome Bay and an office and show-home at its Excelsa Villas subdivision in Papamoa, 200 metres away from the beach.

Eventually the estate will be home to 10 houses, on sections ranging in size from 384 to 505 square metres.

Mike has noticed a demand by clients for homes with higher studs and he says they have made a point of really listening to what customers want based on what their life-styles are.

“They don’t want ugly, they want visually beautiful. The sun is also a big factor.”

While the Bay of Plenty is noted as a growth region with high demand for new houses, Mike senses that the next 18 months or so will be steady.

The company is also engaged in the community in other ways, sponsoring a

basketball academy in Tauranga.

“It is good to give back to the community we work and live in.

“This region has a bright future and is going to continue to grow, driven in part from demand from Aucklanders and we see ourselves very much as contributing to what makes this area special.”

“Everything is done on square metre rates and though we have grown substantially in a relatively short space of time our systems are solid.”

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Proud to be supporting Barrett Homes Ltd Building Innovations NZ 35

Residential >> PG Builders

Firm branches out from rebuild business Jo Bailey Rebuild projects have provided the bulk of PG Builders’ workload since the firm moved to Christchurch from Invercargill in 2011.

However a growing number of design/ build projects now make up its portfolio, with the latest, an upmarket home at Longhurst, in Halswell, currently up for sale.

“It’s good to be back doing more new home projects, which was the main focus of my business when I started as a sole trader back in Southland in 2001, and established PG Builders in 2007,” says Patrick Grace.

The 205 square metre, three-to-four bedroom, two-bathroom home at Longhurst is on a private, secure, section, and has been crafted to “maximise space” without compromise.

It has a lot of appealing features, such as external cedar highlights, a private patio off the master bedroom, plenty of storage, a galley-style kitchen with Bosch applicances, and a second living space, which could be easiliy reconfigured as a fourth bedroom, formal living area, media room, study or playroom.

The home is one of several design/build projects PG Builders is currently working on with a home at Broken Run in Halswell, and two townhouses in the central city under construction.

Earthquake repair and rebuild projects are also keeping the small- to medium-sized enterprise busy, with Patrick able to provide a unique offering to Canterbury clients.

Following the move north, he spent a few months working as an EQC assessor before taking up a position as a Contract Supervisor, overseeing several contractors and their repair work for Fletcher EQR’s Rolleston Hub. Towards the end of 2012 he was ready to get back on the tools and become an accredited contractor himself.

Since then PG Builders has worked on numerous repair projects, from small jobs to those valued over $200,000.

“We are also doing a lot of insurance work under Fletchers and as main contractors can

PG Builders has wide experience of repairs and rebuilds as well as new build projects. scope, manage and direct client’s earthquake repair projects from the start to sign off.”

Patrick says his indepth knowledge of the system after working on both sides of it is an advantage for clients.

“Earthquake repairs can be complex and challenging but we have a lot of experience with quake damaged homes, and work hard to take the stress out of the process for our clients.

“We also offer an obligation free strategy assessment, going through their scopes and if it isn’t right, we help to get it working for them.”

Clients are able to deal directly with Patrick throughout the project works, whatever the project, which offers a lot of reassurance, he says.

“Our clients are not treated like a number.

We are transparent and keep them well informed throughout the process.”

Grace also has significant experience in the commercial market. He did his apprenticeship with Amalgamated Builders Ltd, and worked on commercial builds for the Sydney

Olympics in 2000 and in Wellington prior to going out on his own.

Patrick’s wife Kelly is also involved with the business, handling its administration and helping to implement the firm’s Zero Harm health and safety policies.

“We take health and safety very seriously and have regular toolbox talk with our own team and sub-contractors.”

Patrick says quality is at the heart of all the firm’s projects.

“It is our aim to deliver exceptional quality,”he says.

“No project will be signed off or handed over unless I’m 100 percent happy with it.”

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Residential >> Peter Blay Builders

Peter looking forward to a change in pace Jo Bailey After 47 years in the industry, Rangiora builder Peter Blay has decided to wind down towards retirement following a drop-off in work in the local market.

“Rather than compete with the housing companies and commercial guys that have come out to North Canterbury, I’ve decided to downscale, and carry on as a sole trader until I retire sometime over the next few months.”

Peter Blay Builders has traded through many ups and downs over the years, but Peter says the current downturn has been the sharpest he has experienced in a long time.

“Development in Rangiora and Kaiapoi has slowed up, with spec builds taking a lot longer to sell. The problems with commuting into Christchurch may be having some impact, but with so many developments and sections available back in the city, people have a lot more choice these days.”

He says he is not the only business to be affected by the slowing of the market.

“I’m getting a lot of calls from tradesmen looking for work, and also from subcontractors, who 18 months ago didn’t want to know me, but who are now ringing up to ask if I’ve got any work for them.”

Peter has let go of his own three staff, including an apprentice.

“My foreman has gone out on his own and is a really good builder.

“Hopefully I can employ him on contract when I need him.”

Peter is still doing work for clients as it comes in, and is currently finishing off a smart-looking, 400sqm commercial premises he has designed and built in Newnham Street, Rangiora that he is going to lease out.

The north-facing, fully fire-rated building gets plenty of sun and would be suitable for a range of applications, given its large workshop space, office, two toilets, kitchen area, and plenty of off street parking.

“A building like this is quite hard to come by in Rangiora, and there is already quite a bit of interest in it.”

Peter has operated in Rangiora since 1990 after moving out from Christchurch.

His firm has developed a good name in

Peter Blay is finishing off a smart-looking, 400sqm commercial premises he has designed and built in Newnham Street, Rangiora.

the market for producing quality work at affordable rates, and has worked on a wide range of projects “across the board” from alterations and renovations work, to new residential homes and light commercial buildings.

A 520 sqm, multi-million dollar home with expansive upstairs living areas overlooking a private, man-make lake in Northbrook Waters, Rangiora, is one of the firm’s most high profile jobs, as well as his own executive style house in the same sub-division.

“Both of these are stunning houses and were great projects for the team.”

Last year Peter Blay Builders constructed four commercial factories side-by-side in an

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“A building like this is quite hard to come by in Rangiora, and there is already quite a bit of interest in it.” industrial estate on Lineside Road, on the southern outskirts of Rangiora.

Peter expects to “keep ticking over” with clients’ projects over coming months, and would still take on a new home build if it came up.

But as he eases towards retirement after almost 50 years in the trade, he is looking

forward to a change of pace.

“I bought a nice boat around five years ago that I haven’t had much chance to use.

It will be great to get out on the water a bit more often.”

Peter says that he would like to thank all his suppliers and sub-trades for their support in the past and in the foreseeable future.

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Building Innovations NZ 37

Residential >> RAW Building

Queenstown firm enjoys the challenges JoBailey “A fantastic mix of old and new.” That’s how Richard Coudret of RAW Building describes the extensive renovations and additions being carried out at historic Scheib Cottage at Arrow Junction.

“A new wing has been attached to this stunning old stone cottage, which is also being completely refurbished in keeping with its original heritage. It is not a straightforward project, but it’s great to take something old and give it new life.”

The Queenstown firm has worked on the project, designed by architect Maarten Hofmans, since Christmas last year.

The works have included a complete refit of the stone cottage, including new weatherboards and windows, a new, re-pitched roof, and totara posts and verandah.

Inside the works include new pointed stonework, recycled rimu joinery, and the

restoration of the existing rimu flooring.

“It has been a great project for our team and our sub-contractors such as Quality Woods and Concrete, who have all worked hard to achieve such an amazing result on this project,” .”

With the cottage nearing completion, RAW Building is looking ahead to another sizeable addition and renovation project, says Richard.

“We have done quite a lot of restoration and renovation work in the past and are always happy to take on more.”

He says the large stock of older homes in Queenstown means there is always activity in this market.

“Many first home buyers buy older houses down here and do them up.”

Richard has been building for over 16 years, and started RAW Building around seven years ago.

He has always been based in the Central Lakes District, completing his apprenticeship in Cromwell.

• to page 40

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38 Building Innovations NZ

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QWCF offer high quality & professional services in both concrete and wood. We specialise in concrete ground flooring, bench tops, hearths and wood flooring. Let's get started.

Many of the premium quality floor and surface finishes in new homes built by RAW Building have been produced by Quality Wood and Concrete Finishes (QWCF).

“I’ve known Richie Coudner for a long time, and we enjoy working together on projects when we can,” says QWCF director, Oliver James.

The Queenstown firm recently sub-contracted to RAW Building on renovation and addition works to the historic Scheib Cottage at Arrow Junction.

“We applied a full stone polished finish to a concrete floor, and rejuvenated a recycled timber floor, maintaining a rustic finish in line with the era of the cottage. Both came up really well,” Oliver says.

The firm produces three different concrete finishes - a polish, which provides a natural effect to an existing existing floor; a light grind “salt and pepper” finish, which exposes very small stones in the concrete floor; and the deep grind, which exposes full stone.

“The deep grind was the most popular finish a couple of years ago, but people are tending more towards the salt and pepper finish at the moment.”

QWCF uses the premium Lesa system, which uses lithium-based products, the most “tried on the market,” he says.

“Lesa is among the most expensive systems, but there is a reason, because you can’t beat the finish.”

Concrete benchtops are another area of speciality for the firm.

“We often do the concrete work to produce the benchtops as well as the finishing work, as they are too heavy to lift into place.”

The firm boxes up the benchtop area, pours the concrete in situ, and once the benchtop has cured, strips away the boxing and finishes the surfaces.

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“We are just starting some massive new concrete benchtops with legs for another project with RAW. One benchtop is four metres long by 500 mm wide with a waterfall effect down the side, and the other is four metres long and 700 mm wide, with spaces cut in for appliances, services and storage.”

QWCF also finishes new timber floors, and revunates existing timber floors, using high quality Osmo products.

Oliver started the company around three-and-a-half years ago .

Some of its high-end projects have already featured in Urbis magazine and on television show Kiwi Living.

“We’ve built up enough plant and equipment to complete jobs from five square metres up to thousands of square metres, including two generators and a 650 remote control grinder which is a pretty big and awesome machine.”

He says the company focuses mainly on the high-end residential market, but is also pricing commercial jobs.

“The Lesa system is an ideal fit for this market too, as the penetrating sealers have no odour and no penetrating densifiers.

If recoats are required later due to heavy foot traffic, they can be applied at night time with the shop or business able to open again the next day.”

QWCF employs two full time staff and is looking for a third.

“My staff are just as passionate as me about what we do and no floor or surface is sealed without my eye running over it. It’s all about quality, quality, quality.”

Oliver says all QWCF work is backed by a 10-year guarantee, providing clients with even greater assurance about the finishes in their home.

“With a good base to work from we can provide clients with an amazing, long-lasting, hard-wearing, stain-free surface, that if it is looked after, really will last forever.”

Residential >> RAW Building

Queenstown firm enjoys the challenges • from page 38 The firm currently has five skilled staff, who work on a wide range of projects, from new builds and renovations, to maintenance and repairs, alterations and light commercial projects.

Alongside the Scheib Cottage project, RAW Building has been working on another architecturally designed project – a contemporary home in the exclusive Dalefield area which has expansive views of Coronet Peak and the surrounding mountains.

“As Licensed Building Practitioners and Master Builders we have the expertise to take on these sorts of high end projects, but are happy to do work across the board,” says Richard.

RAW Building also acts as a contracted builder to some of the group housing companies in the region.

“We do a few A1 homes, and have just started a couple of new builds for Stonewood Homes. They are excellent projects for our apprentices, as the repetition provides them with good training.”

On the commercial side, the firm has completed a restaurant fitout and has worked on other light commercial projects as a subcontractor. Richard says establishing strong relationships with various sub-contractors, quantity surveyors, architects, contract qualified building staff and his suppliers is also a key to the success of the firm’s projects.

“We are focused on producing high quality work, so it’s critical our sub-contractors are on the same page. Our major supplier Mitre 10 has been great as well.”

Overall, Richard is happy at the growth of the company over the last seven years and the position it has established in the market.

“Things are booming in Queenstown at the moment, both on the residential and commercial side of things.

“The big commercial projects soak up a lot of builders, which generally means more work for those concentrating on the residential sector. It’s good news for everyone.”

He says his company philosophy is do things right the first time.

“Having a happy client at the end of every project is my main aim.”

“As Licensed Building Practitioners and Master Builders we have the expertise to take on high-end projects, but are happy to do work across the board.”

The works on the historic Scheib Cottage at Arrow Junction have included a complete refit of the stone cottage, including new weatherboards and windows, a new, re-pitched roof, and totara posts and verandah.

Mega Queenstown on the way

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RAW Building is one of many trade customers that will benefit when the brand new, $20 million Mitre 10 MEGA store opens in Queenstown later this year, says general manager, Paul Reeve.

“Local DIY and home improvement enthusiasts can look forward to an enhanced shopping experience that includes an instore Colombus Café, children’s playground and an expansive garden centre.

This new store will be the latest store in the H&J Smith group, which has operated community-focused businesses in the local area since the early 1970’s.

“Our customers will have more choice instore with our product range that will increase significantly to around 30,000 individual product lines.”

At approximately 8000sqm, the new MEGA will more than triple the footprint of the existing Mitre 10 store.

Reeve is excited to continue the growth of Mitre 10 in the Wakatipu.

In fact, the new trade drive-through and yard being constructed for MEGA will be bigger than the entire current store at Remarkables Park.

Reeve says nationally, Mitre 10 has invested heavily in its supply and service model to trade customers over the last few years, and he is looking forward to providing greater rewards and an enhanced service to the local trade network.

“We launched the new trade service and supply model here in Queenstown approximately four years ago, understanding we had limitations with our current footprint.

Mitre 10 Remarkables Park 0800 4 mitre10 www.mitre10.co.nz 40 Building Innovations NZ

“We’ve been quite cautious and strategic about our growth in this market to date, as we didn’t want to overpromise or under deliver. However, once our big new store is up and running we will be, without a doubt, the ultimate trade partner.”

But it’s not only local tradespeople that will benefit when Mitre 10 MEGA opens its doors, he says.

“From small beginnings we have worked hard to steadily build our business. Whilst we outgrew our premises some time ago we have continued to gain good momentum.

Over recent years we have been successfully supplying timber and building supplies to residential and commercials projects across the region including the iconic Five Mile development, the largest construction project underway in Queenstown.”

Reeve says the new Mitre 10 MEGA store is an “exciting development” for Queenstown that will employ around 80 team members, more than double the current team at Remarkables Park.

The new store has opened career opportunities for the existing team and new employment options for locals.

“We’ve been trying to get this project through council for over 10 years, so to finally have consent and see it built is great for the community. It’s something everyone has been waiting for.”

Residential >> Federation Homes

Architectural input makes the difference Karen Phelps Federation Homes aims to offer clients the advantages of a group home builder combined with the design point of difference an architect brings, says Michael Carswell, Federation Homes senior licensed building practitioner.

“Group home building certainly has its advantages as you get a fixed build cost but if you want something different or to make changes to the plan then the price can go up significantly, “ says Michael.

“Alternatively while dealing with an architect gives you free reign over your design you pay top dollar for this service and don’t get a fixed price so the budget often runs away unexpectedly,” he says.

“Federation Homes aims to offer the best of both worlds combining great architecture with the low prices and a guaranteed fixed build cost traditionally only provided by group home building.”

Federation Homes was started seven years ago by Rob Bellerby and Christine Cousineau.

Michael says that the company offers complete design flexibility to create a unique home for each client.

Federation Homes has a wide range of floor plans, which clients are welcome to use, or they can mix and match.

The company’s inhouse team of architectural designers can also work with the client’s budget and ideas to create an original one-off design.

“Our clients can actually talk to experts in the construction field that can advise the most practical, out of the box solutions for simple and complex sites alike.

“They know the building industry inside and out and have hammered nails, built trusses and designed everything from school halls, commercial buildings and both small and spacious homes.

“Their decades of hands on experience give them a valuable design edge – knowing all the legal and practical implications of design decisions and how to avoid any issues. They also specialise in disabled access, energy efficiency, environmentally sustainable materials and off-the-grid homes.”

Federation Homes also offers in house project managers. Michael says this is important to ensure projects run as smoothly as possible. Exclusive Federation Homes smartphone and computer application link clients directly with their project manager.

“We’ve learned that having one, efficient, ‘go-to’ person takes the stress out of building.

Our in-house project managers make sure clients get exactly what you want. They help through the entire process including choosing colours, fittings and fixtures, liaising with all subcontractors while keeping clients fully informed of the progress.”

Federation Homes builds houses and commercial buildings of all sizes from 30 square metre units through to high-end executive homes.

Federation Homes is Master Builders and all homes come with a transferable 10 Year Master Build guarantee. Federation Homes also offers house and land packages.

Michael says the company’s strong relationships with some of the main agents and developers in the Bay of Plenty enables Federation Homes to broker competitive deals that benefit clients.

Clients still choose the design and style of their home with house and land packages and the popularity of the packages means that they often sell out before even reaching the company website.

“Our staff and contractors have decades of experience in the building industry and work closely with our clients on design and build and house and land packages to deliver the very best result.”

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www.plumberman.co.nz Building Innovations NZ 41

Residential >> Sayers Construction / Renovo Group

Sayers Construction works on a variety of builds including high-end architectural homes.

Renovo Group has completed more than 500 residential repairs in Christchurch.

High quality key to success

Renovo Group widens focus

Karen Phelps With clients mostly residing out of town, Paul Sayers, owner of Coromandel-based building company Sayers Construction, says good communication with clients is paramount.

“It’s about constantly updating the client regarding progress by email, sending photos and phoning. We place a big focus on this to ensure our customers are kept informed and happy at every stage of the build,” he says.

Based in Kuaotunu, 15 minutes north of Whitianga, Sayers Construction has been operating in the Coromandel for the past 15 years.

Owned and managed by Paul, a Licensed Building Practitioner and New Zealand Certified Builder with over 30 years industry experience, the company specialises in a wide variety of builds including highend architectural homes as well as semicommercial constructions.

Sayers Construction also offers house plans, undertakes alterations and additions and offers project management services.

Due to its location the company builds a lot of holiday homes for clients based in Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga.

“Searching for the right builder is no easy task as different variables and factors may influence a customer in their selection process.

“Here at Sayers Construction we try and

make it easy by catering to all building needs whether it may be unique designs or project management. I am always available to take customer queries and it gives our customers peace of mind at peace that we have been in the building industry for more than 15 years and have not only the expertise but the certification to back us up,” he says.

Paul says the crew he works with are a big factor in the company’s focus on producing high quality builds. Some of the carpenters and subcontractors have been working for Sayers Construction for a decade.

“We all have high expectations and I have selected the crew I work with for this very thing. It ensures that we are all on the same page striving for very high levels of quality throughout the build for the client.”

Paul says the team thrives on a challenge: “We strive to be the best in the industry so if people have designs they think may be too difficult to construct, they should talk to us before throwing that plan away.

“We have built in rural areas, residential and even light commercial areas, so no job is too complex for us.”

The company is complemented by Paul’s other company, Concrete Worx, which offers a range of services including grinding/sealing and polishing, block honing and sealing, concrete core drilling, concrete cutting and laying and floor levelling.

Paul says this helps to control quality levels on a build and speeds up time lines.

Jo Bailey Renovo Group is changing its focus from earthquake repairs to new builds, and has also introduced a range of building survey services to help Christchurch residents receive what they are entitled to, says quantity surveyor, Alan Kelly.

“Many people in Christchurch are having issues with their rebuild and repair strategy and are in danger of getting a low payout that will not cover the work that needs to be done. We can have a look at their existing scope and if necessary, provide them with a full earthquake survey and re-scope of repair works for their property, including floor levels and roof internal structure.”

The firm is also offering pre-purchase surveys for property buyers, to give them confidence about the condition of a prospective home, and ensure it is compliant with current regulations and is safe for use before an offer is made.

“A pre-purchase survey is becoming a stipulation of mortgage and insurance companies to ensure there are no hidden issues.”

Alan says it is important people use a registered chartered surveyor rather than a builder to prepare any of these crucial reports.

“A chartered surveyor must have years of experience before they can become registered.

“Their reports hold a lot more weight than a builder’s if an issue goes to court.”

Renovo Group’s Christchurch manager, John I’Anson is a Registered Chartered Surveyor (RICS) and is leading the firm’s surveying works.

“John has worked within the commercial and residential building surveying market in Christchurch has a full understanding of the current Building Code requirements, NZ Building Standards and MBIE guidelines for earthquake repairs.”

Renovo Group started in Auckland in 2008, and then set up its Christchurch operation in 2012.

“The company did a lot of work in Auckland for Fletchers, who asked one of our directors Shaun O’Mara to come down and get involved with earthquake repairs,” says Alan.

More than 500 residential repairs have been completed by Renovo in Christchurch over the past three years, which has provided its team with an “excellent” understanding of current repair guidelines and how the earthquakes have impacted on properties, he says.

The firm employs an additional three staff including a licensed building practitioner, and has engaged a “great team of subcontractors who we trust and know,” says Alan.

In Auckland Renovo Group has separate divisions working on maintenance and repair; and construction projects, and in Christchurch is moving into architectural residential builds, as well as building surveying work.

R.M.Solutions

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Demolition Driveways Foundations Land Clearing CERA Accredited

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Certified Gasfitter & Plumber Gas, Plumbing, Drainage and Central Heating Exceptional Service and Workmanship SOLAR & UNDERFLOOR HEATING • BIOCYCLE SEWERAGE SYSTEMS Telephone/Fax 07 866 4305 Mobile 027 276 7522 Email whitianga.plumbing@xtra.co.nz

42 Building Innovations NZ

Phone 021 132 8929 mike_cairns@ymail.com

Interiors

Quality products, workmanship essential There is no substitute for quality and therefore the best advice we can give consumers, in respect to interior decorating is always purchase the best product you can afford for your project. Why is this important?

The New Zealand market is blessed with some of the best products available anywhere in the world.

An immense amount of research goes into modern decorating products, with a constant focus on longer lasting, more durable and environmentally friendly products.

These modern products should far out perform the cheaper options and will therefore give you a better result for longer, ensuring you can focus on other activities rather than addressing wear and tear in your home environment.

Make sure you understand the information provided from the manufacturers website fully and if in any doubt seek advice to ensure that what you are selecting is actually fit for purpose.

If using a painting contractor have them explain exactly what products they are using and why?

They all have preferred ranges, but this doesn’t mean that this is the best solution

for your specific situation. If you have a preferred product brand state this clearly in writing with your contractor.

In particular the choices you make in respect to sheen level (gloss) also have a significant impact on the look of your finished project.

The colour you choose can look entirely different in a low sheen finish, when compared to a higher level of gloss.

It surprises most people the degree on variation that results from this aspect of the colours used.

A good contractor will be aware of this and should discuss this with you prior to application.

If choosing wall coverings ask for references in respect to recent applications.

These products provide a wonderful range of design and textural elements and it is important that they have a very good understanding of the specifics of the product you wish to have used.

Master Painters New Zealand members have access to a useful consumer information booklet titled “Important Information about your Painting Project”, which they should be able to provide for you as part of their workmanship proposition.

“In particular the choices you make in respect to sheen level (gloss) also have a significant impact on the look of your finished project.”

This document outlines the process and what you need to be aware of so that the project can be completed to a high standard and safely.

If choosing a contractor, investigate the claims they make and ensure they are legitimate. If, for example, they claim they are a member of a professional body, check this out on the appropriate website or call the contact number listed below.

It has been our experience that too often consumers take these claims on face value,

only to find that the facts don’t match the claims made.

Asking to see their membership card should be the bare minimum check you carry out.

Article supplied by Master Painters New Zealand. For more information and consumer advice from Master Painters New Zealand Association Inc go to www. masterpainters.co.nz and click on the yellow factsheets tab

HALSWELL TIMBER Your Timber Solution • Radiata H4 • Radiata H5 • Beech • Cedar • Kwila • Macro • Radiata CI • Rimu • Machining • Panelling • Weatherboards • Decking • Mouldings • Flooring • Skirting / Architrave 193 Halswell Rd Christchurch Ph: 03 338 9199 Fax: 03 338 9231 Email: sales@halswelltimber.co.nz www.halswelltimber.co.nz

Brown & Syme on a roll Relationships with construction companies developed over decades has made Brown & Syme Holdings Limited the go-to company for interior and exterior painting and decorating during the Christchurch rebuild.

In fact Brown & Syme has now doubled in size since the earthquakes.

Brown & Syme undertakes residential, commercial and public projects. It offers a complete range of painting services and has been building its reputation since 1936.

The company started in Christchurch as Alfred Brown & Co (Painters) and in 1949; R M Syme Ltd (Painters) was established. In 1989, a son and grandson of the original owners Colin Brown and Steve Syme, merged the two companies and Brown & Syme Holdings.

Peter Mason joined Brown & Syme as a director in 1993. He had been apprenticed to Alfred Brown & Co as a painter in 1973 and after serving his time, was promoted to supervisor and contracts manager. Mason became a shareholder in Brown & Syme with the retirement of Steve Syme, and eventually he took over the Brown & Syme business. In 2005, he was joined by Bruce Hodges, an employee for many years, who had worked his way through the ranks from an apprentice to a supervisor, and now a business partner.

Brown & Syme expanded to Nelson in the late 1990s, and in 2003, Richard Haynes became a business partner looking after the Nelson Tasman region. Haynes has extensive experience in the paint industry

having worked as the branch manager and sales representative for Resene for 10 years.

Today Brown & Syme employs close to 40 staff in Christchurch and another 15 in Nelson.

Immediately following the Christchurch earthquakes, Brown & Syme was quick to double its staff in order to assist with the huge amount of repairs and relocations needed to get businesses back up and running.

With the rebuild now in full swing the company has been busy undertaking a number of contracts in the CBD and private homes. Recent major projects include the temporary police station and the new Orion building.

These projects were successfully completed on time, despite the tight time frames, something Brown & Syme specialises in.

High quality workmanship, professionalism, reliability and completing work on time and on budget are just some of the factors responsible for the company’s sound reputation.

The long-standing South Island painting and decorating company is predicting further growth as the rebuild speeds up.

Brown & Syme Holdings, Telephone Christchurch (03) 381 8423, email brown-syme@xtra.co.nz; Nelson (03) 546 5145, email brown-symenelson@ xtra.co.nz, www.brown-syme.co.nz

Holdings Limited

PA I N T I N G C O N T R A C T O R S Canterbury Owned and Operated Since 1936

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Ph 03 381 8423 Fax 03 381 7212 PO Box 15010, Christchurch 8643 Email: info@brown-syme.co.nz Building Innovations NZ 23 43

Renewable Energy >> Project Solar

Different systems for different needs Karen Phelps New Zealand has an ideal climate for heat pump water heaters and the technology is increasingly being installed throughout the country according to Adrian Kerr, director of Project Solar Ltd. Although heat pump air heaters have been more common and something that consumers are more familiar with he says that the technology is essentially the same for both with heat transferred into either water or air.

Kerr, who has tested most of the solar heat pump water heaters available on the New Zealand market, says that there are essentially three types of heat pump water heaters: the integrated, tank and heat pump system; the split multi-pass system and the split single pass system.

He says that which type is selected will depend on the needs of the user. Integrated systems usually have the heat pump on top of the tank and Kerr advises that these are the most cost effective systems when a new tank is required.

“They are reliable, easy to install and offer good performance,” he says.

“They often have an integrated electric element, although the best ones only use the element as a backup in case the heat pump was to require servicing.

“The systems with stainless steel tanks are most likely to be more durable. In colder climates the ducted models provide the best flexibility in installation and allow the cold air to be exhausted outside. They are also much quieter.’

The multi-pass systems heat from the bottom of the tank and cannot generally be retrofitted to existing tanks, as the flow rate

New Zealand has an ideal climate for heat pump water heaters and the technology is increasingly being installed throughout the country. between the heat pump and the tank is too high.

“Even if the flow rate requirements were to be met, the velocity of the water entering the tank mixes water layers in the tank and this greatly reduces the efficiency of the system,” says Kerr.

He advises that multi-pass systems are a good choice for heating pools or for underfloor heating systems and can give acceptable performance where a new tank is

installed with the system with dedicated inlet ports for the heat pump connections.

Kerr says that the single pass systems are the best suited for hot water heating.

These systems heat water from the bottom of the tank to 60 degrees Celsius in a single pass and return the water to the top of the tank giving top down heating. Kerr says that the much lower flow rate prevents mixing within the tank and they also extend the capacity of the tank.

“In effect a 180-litre tank functions like a 250 litre tank as the water heated by the heat pump is available for use as it is being heated,” he explains.

There are several integrated systems on the market, which Kerr says claim to provide both underfloor and water heating in the same unit but he advises that in practice this doesn’t work that well:.

“Firstly an underfloor system requires several times the energy demand as the hot water system and it is only used during the colder months.

“This approach results in either an oversized water heating system or an undersized underfloor system. In addition, systems integrating the underfloor system in the same tank as the hot water also have poor performance due to the inherent inefficiency of heating the water to a higher temperature than required for the underfloor system,” he says.

Kerr advises the best approach is to use the correct technology for the application and that in most residential households a quality integrated or single pass system should be used for hot water heating, a dedicated multipass system should be used for underfloor heating or pool heating.

Twin condenser systems combining pool and underfloor heating also work well as they complement each other. The pool is mainly heated during the warmer months, and the floor is mainly heated during the cooler months.

When the right system is selected for the correct application and used appropriately Kerr says energy savings of 65 – 80% can easily be achieved making investment in a hot water heat pump a good decision for home and business owners.

Exploring power options If the idea of generating your own electricity and being in charge of your own power bill is appealing, it’s time to give Renewable Solutions a call.

This Canterbury based business offers full design, installation and maintenance of reliable, high performance, renewable energy systems including wind turbines, solar PV, hydro, biomass boilers and other sustainable energy technologies that help their clients save money.

Director and registered industrial electrician, Stuart MacWilliam, says the business works on large and small projects, and can offer numerous benefits to commercial, corporate and industrial clients, offering protection against the ever-increasing costs of power, lessening their impact on the environment, and showing their customers they are committed to corporate responsibility.

“We combine the latest international technologies with Kiwi knowledge and experience to give our clients the best solution to suit their specific needs in the most economical way.

“We utilise technologies directly from the world’s leading manufacturers with 35 years’ experience within in their respective industries in over 90 countries around the world.”

Renewable Solutions carry out a full site assessment and feasibility study, as well as analysing existing power usage to determine the most appropriate energy solutions for the specific site.

“Assuming the site is suitable, we then tailor a design, take care of any planning and building consent formalities through to full installation with continuing support through the lifespan of the system.”

Some of the diverse projects already completed by the company include

44 Building Innovations NZ

comprehensive energy auditing and solar system installation for the NZ Defence Forces; installation of Photovoltaic systems on Aotea Electric’s new office and warehouse building in Christchurch; Kidsfirst Kindergarten in Diamond Harbour, and the installation of an underfloor heating system at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa utilizing waste heat.

Renewable Solutions can also provide residential solutions for homeowners, in particular those with larger power bills.

The company is currently installing New Zealand’s first UGE VisionAIR3 Vertical Axis Wind Turbine in North Canterbury, to suit a residential application.

“The majority of wind turbines are designed to produce energy across a wide range of wind speeds and wind conditions.

“However vertical axis wind turbines go one step further, harnessing winds from all directions simultaneously. They are available in various sizes, are extremely quiet, very durable and pleasing to the eye. They can even be sign written and painted to enhance company branding.”

Two 5Kw vertical axis turbines were recently installed on the Eiffel Tower to produce over 10,000kWh of electricity a year.

“We believe in making the most of New Zealand’s sun and wind resources, reducing our energy consumption, saving our customers money on their power bills and providing a more sustainable future for all New Zealanders.

“Our team has an average of over 30 years’ experience within the electrical and construction industries and we are happy to provide an obligation free consultation to assess whether solar, wind technology or other forms of renewable energy are viable options for a home or business.”

Interested in reducing you power bill? w w w.renewablesolutions.co.nz

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Quantum Leap for Home Water Heating We all want to save the planet but it is often the upfront cost of environmentally friendly energy systems that prove prohibitive.

Dana Darwin, founder of Energy Alternative NZ, says that there has been a quantum leap in terms of value for consumers.

“For the same price as a thermal solar water heating system a few years ago we can now combine heat pump water heaters with solar PV technology (which converts solar energy into electricity) to be used to power other items in the home," says Dana.

"Now that more cost-effective technology is readily available in the market place we advise people to take the first step on the energy efficiency pathway and then, when they can afford to or as the price of technology decreases, they can take the next step towards greater energy resilience,” he says, suggesting that people consider home energy efficiency as a pathway rather than an "all or nothing" scenario.

The first step on the pathway he advises people to consider is an all-in-one heat pump water heater.

Hot water heating comprises 30% of the energy footprint in the average Kiwi home according to BRANZ data. Energy Alternative has designed the Aquarian range of heat pump water heaters which can provide a marginalized pay back in as little as three years when used to provide hot water for four or more people in a home.

Dana says that Aquarians lower electricity bills from day one saving at least 65% on water heating when compared to a traditional electric water heater and families of four or more persons.

“Aquarians are efficient in average daily temperatures as low as 6°C and can produce hot water in all weather conditions, even at night.'

"Aquarian heat pump water heaters create nearly three times as much energy for water heating as they use and as a result produce lower levels of greenhouse gas emissions than other electricity-based water heating such as hot water cylinders."

The next steps on the energy pathway for people to consider are solar power to offset daytime energy use, while looking at how they heat their home, the next biggest factor in energy consumption.

Dana recommends using solar photovoltaic (PV) technology alongside an Aquarian.

“Photovoltaic solar panels generate clean electricity by converting sunlight to electricity.

As every customer’s needs are different this could be anything from a simple grid tied PV system to an integrated energy efficiency solution including solar energy, heat pump water heating, efficient lighting and energy storage (batteries)."

* When compared to a traditional electric water heater and families of 4 or more.

He says a further step on the pathway is to manage energy use in a way that most efficiently uses the sun’s energy.

This might be as simple as putting a load of washing on during the day when the sun is shining rather than at night. Or it could mean taking full advantage of the features the technology offers.

“For example Aquarians have real-time controls so the unit can be set to operate during the day, taking advantage of the higher air temperature and solar energy generation. They also have automatic controls, which ensure they operate in the most efficient mode to meet the hot water demands of the home or business.”

Dana says there are exciting new developments in the area of hybrid battery storage, which will enable energy generated by the sun to be stored and used as required. The cost is still prohibitive for most people but he expects this to change and looking into the near future predicts that this will be the next step on the energy pathway.

Energy Alternative helps customers ensure the Energy efficiency systems they put in place now are compatable with other new technologies which are rapidly becoming an affordable option on the pathway to energy resilience

For more information visit www.energyalternatives.co.nz and www.aquarian.co.nz

AQ170L

AQ250L

AQ275LE

2-5 person

4-8 person

4-9 person

Renewable Energy >> YHI

Smart technologies enhance solar products Since adding solar power technologies to its list of products marketed locally YHI (New Zealand) Ltd has seen significant growth in interest from the local market.

YHI distributes an extensive range of solar power products including inverters, microinverters, controllers, modules, monitoring systems and mounting components, from top tier manufacturers.

Solar product manager Brian Crum says he isn’t surprised at how well the solar energy products have been taken up given the quality and exceptional ability of the smart technologies available from key supplier Enphase.

“Though our company diversified into power products back in 2001, it was four years ago that we began to market solar power technologies and then most significantly since 2014 we started distributing world-renown Enphase solar products,” Brian says.

With more and more interest and support from consumers, both residential and commercial to seriously look at solar power as a key energy source, Brian says it’s the perfect time for building companies to offer solar installations as a mainstream option.

“The benefits that flow from fitting solar energy systems when the home or commercial building is first being constructed are significant,” he says.

“With products such as Enphase’s sophisticated, highly adaptable and easily installed microinverter systems, proving their worth I think there is a real opportunity for building companies to add value to the building process for their customers and for themselves.”

YHI is so committed to the future of solar

46 Building Innovations NZ

“Every range of solar product produced has gone through a rigorous testing before we feel satisfied it can be released....”

Enphase microinverters can be mounted to a building’s roof on a variety of angles.

power that it has installed its own 52kW system on the roof of its Auckland offices and a 10kW system at its Christchurch branch.

Enphase Strategic Account Manager Chris McArthur based in Auckland says the company’s products have taken a massive hold in the New Zealand market since forming the relationship with YHI. “New Zealand will grow to become a very strong market and already we have approximately 30% market share.

“This is due to our global reputation, leading-edge technologies and the adaptability of our systems,” he says.

Ben Bishop, Enphase’s Asia-Pacific Distribution Account Manager based in Melbourne says the parent-company had been looking for the right distribution partners to deliver their product to the New Zealand market.

“We were looking for a business that matched what we were about and we found that in YHI (NZ) Ltd. Since partnering with YHI we have seen a dramatic rise in demand for our products in region.”

He says the relationship brings a lot of benefits to the New Zealand consumer. As a global leader Enphase has developed quality assurance processes second to none.

“Every range of solar product produced has gone through a rigorous testing before we feel satisfied it can be released on the market.”

The domestic market is not the only one responding with significant interest in solar derived energy supply.

“One of our real successes is the Auckland War Memorial Museum,” says Ben. “They have a strong focus on their environmental foot print and by using our products they were able to install the entire system without putting holes in their roof, complying with heritage property laws.”

There is also a lot going on in the rural space Chris says, with the company seeing a significant spike in installations of its highyield and extra low voltage solar technology across dairy farms in New Zealand.

“Farming and the rural sector generally are really beginning to see the substantial gains that can be made by using solar.”

YHI has six warehouses nationwide, with specialist sales staff at each location and a network of installers.

“We focus on local relationships; it’s a key ethic for us,” says Brian.

“Our credibility and corporate culture is based around our commitment to fostering positive and long-lasting relationships with our customers.”

Renewable Energy >> Solarcity

Time to harness the benefits of solar power The price of solar technology has decreased dramatically in recent years and Andrew Booth, chief executive officer of Solarcity, predicts electric car technology will follow a similar path.

Both technologies, he advises, are the way of the future and homeowners should ensure a new home build is correctly pre-wired for both, especially as the cost is low.

“To make that easy we’re making our solarAdvantage wiring plans available for free from our website.

“Pre-wiring during the build means these technologies can be added to the home at anytime and by any provider,” he says.

“A house is built to last 100 years, or more, so we have a responsibility to build homes that are energy efficient and have a low carbon foot print.”

Andrew Booth says that Solarcity has a big aim – to change the power industry in New Zealand for the better by delivering a fresh take on solar that’s greener and more affordable.

“Until recently many New Zealanders were put off making the change to solar because of the equipment costs,” he says.

“That’s why we have come up with SolarZero, a solution so that homeowners can enjoy solar power without the upfront expense.”

While the company does offer traditional installs, where the customer pays for and owns the solar panels, its SolarZero plan gives homeowners the option to buy solar power without having to buy the solar panels.

Solarcity pays for and installs the panels on your roof and you simply pay for solar at a low, fixed monthly fee that is less than the average rate for grid power. Solarcity’s fixed fee is also guaranteed for the next 20 years.

“The changes to the technology have been very rapid and the costs have dropped a lot in the past few years.”

Solarcity’s SolarZero plan gives homeowners the option to buy solar power without having to buy the solar panels.

“As power prices have increased by a staggering 153% in the last two decades solarZero could have saved Kiwi’s thousands of dollars.”

SolarZero includes insurance, maintenance (excluding panel cleaning) and 24/7 technical support as well as online monitoring so homeowners can track their energy use and carbon savings.

The modular design also allows for upgrades to larger systems and future technology updates.

SolarZero has been so popular that the

company is installing a system on a home somewhere in New Zealand every four hours, says Booth.

While today’s solar systems can provide a home’s daytime energy needs, Booth says that developing technologies, such as batteries, will extend the benefits as they become affordable.

He says that if every home in New Zealand converted to solar the savings on power would equate to $1-2b. If Kiwis powered their vehicles by electricity the country could save about $4b each year in fuel imports.

Booth says a friend on Auckland’s North Shore, who has already embraced electric car technology, drives to Auckland city from his home each day and back for a cost of just 10-12 cents.

Founded in 1974, Solarcity is 100% New Zealand owned and operated and financially backed by Sir Stephen Tindall’s K1W1 investment fund and by the nation’s oldest private equity fund, Pencarrow PE. Andrew Booth says that Solarcity has put solar on more homes and businesses than any other company in New Zealand.

It is one of the five fastest growing green companies in New Zealand and a part of the government’s Focus 500 group of companies that make a significant contribution to the New Zealand economy. It was also the first solar company in the world to gain carboNZero accreditation.

Booth says that the future is here and builders and homeowners, alike, need to take advantage of the benefits solar brings.

“The changes to the technology have been very rapid and the costs have dropped a lot in the past few years. I don’t think New Zealanders have quite realised the magnitude of the changes yet.

“They think solar is something which will happen in the future, but it’s happening right now.”

Building Innovations NZ 47

CELEBRATING NEW ZEALAND’S TOP-PERFORMING APPRENTICES Winter may bring chilly and wet weather, but a big highlight for BCITO is that it’s also a season of celebration for many of BCITO's trade sectors and apprentices.

BCITO staff have recently rubbed shoulders with the best of the best in many industry sectors. A huge congratulations and well-done to these high achievers.

NZ Painting & Decorating Apprentice of the Year Awards - held in conjunction with the Master Painters New Zealand conference in Wellington in June, regional award winners were: Northern - Mailefihi Pasakala, J R Webb, Auckland Central - Hona Spratt, Braddock Decorators, Wellington Southern - Imche Cole, Brown & Syme Holdings, Christchurch The top performer and overall winner of the title ‘NZ Painting & Decorating Apprentice of the Year’ was awarded to Hona Spratt.

Hona says, "My painting apprenticeship has changed my life so much for the better. I'm passionate about what I do and see a great future in this business for me.”

Hona has worked his way up through the ranks at Braddock Decorators. He began his career during the school holidays working for pocket money. Now he's a project manager with the company, is in charge of 8 painters and is responsible for delivering jobs on time and to a high standard.

BCITO values the opportunity to share in celebrating all high achieving apprentices who aspire to be industries' leaders of the future. This event was a spectacular showcase of the importance the Association places on celebrating excellence.

Glass & Glazing Association and Window Association of NZ’s Awards - held in June in Auckland. Anthony Bergman of Metro Performance Glass, Christchurch is this year's recipient of the Most Promising Glass & Glazing Apprentice award. Also presented at this event was the award for the Most Promising Architectural Aluminium Joinery Apprentice. Ashley Hooker of Frankton Aluminium Ltd was the proud recipient.

National Kitchen & Bathroom Association Conference - held in Napier in early August.

Gillian Flynn of Kitchen Inspirations in Pukekohe was presented with the Judy Bark Cup and awarded the title of New Zealand's Most Promising Design Student 2015.

These events are a wonderful opportunity to catch up with employers and stakeholders around the country. BCITO will be celebrating more high achievers’ skills and talents at the RMB Carters' Apprentice of the Year competition for carpentry in early October.

BCITO Flooring Apprentice of the Year Awards - held in Christchurch on 16 July.

Coromandel flooring apprentice Stafford Moody of Fagans’ NZ Ltd from Whitianga won the Supreme Flooring Apprentice of the Year Award as well as being named BCITO Stage Three Flooring Apprentice of the Year.

Stafford, who is now fully qualified, is employed by Fagans’ NZ Limited. The award was based on his performance at the Allied Trades Institute while undertaking off-job training. Principal Tutor, Jeff Henry, says “Stafford worked tirelessly to hone his finishing skills and always showed good logic with his decisions.”

Stafford was “stoked” when he was named the Stage Three Flooring Apprentice of the Year. “It was a bit unexpected. There were two other classes and so you never know who is there and how good they are, but I’m very happy.”

(Left to right) Paul Williams, Ben Meister, Ruma Karaitiana, Chief Executive, BCITO, Stafford Moody, Nathan Weston, Richard Blomfield.

Other award winners presented at the event were: BCITO Stage One Flooring Apprentice of the Year – Nathan Weston of Hays Carpet Laying, Hawkes Bay. BCITO Stage Two Flooring Apprentice of the Year – Richard Blomfield of Van Dyk Installations, Putaruru.

BCITO Flooring Planning and Design Trainee of the Year – Paul Williams of The Flooring Centre, Riccarton, Christchurch.

Villars Trophy - a special recognition award for outstanding commitment and dedication - Benjamin Meister of James Henry Joinery & Flooring, Upper Hutt.

Master Joiners Apprentice Awards – held in Wellington on 27 June. David Irvine of Barrett Joiners Ltd, Timaru is this year's recipient of BCITO's Ernie Jelinek Cup for the Most Promising Joinery Apprentice.

BCITO was also proud to sponsor the following awards at the event: People’s Choice 0-4,000 hours - Ashley Hollamby, Lee Brothers Joinery, Rotorua People’s Choice 4,001 – 8,000 hours - Michael Good, Peter Howley Joinery, Invercargill

(Left to right) Hona Spratt receiving the Martin Beveridge Memorial Trophy for Painting & Decorating Apprentice of the Year, John Gerondis, National Sales Manager, Resene and Moana Beveridge.

Education and Upskilling

Opportunity knocks for qualified supervisors New Zealand’s construction industry is facing an extreme shortage of qualified, experienced supervisors. Those with a nationally recognised supervision qualification will be well-placed to take advantage of this.

Most employers in the construction industry believe that their staff need to keep training and most feel that professional development is essential in order to progress further in the industry.

BCITO Chief Executive, Ruma Karaitiana, says there’s an increasing awareness in the industry of the importance of higher-level qualifications and how they fit into career progression. “We know that consumers want the industry to be more professional and what better way to do this than having qualified supervisors managing your teams?”

If you’re already working in your trade as a supervisor, BCITO has two higher-level qualifications that will set you up as one of New Zealand’s formally qualified construction industry supervisors.

National Certificate in Construction Trades (Supervisor) (Level 4) This qualification is for carpenters and other allied tradespeople and is designed for you if you are already working as a supervisor.

You’ll need to have existing knowledge and skills in the trade that you’re supervising and you should have already gained a qualification your trade at level 3 or 4 or be able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills.

The progamme is delivered electronically and is a ‘self-paced’ learning package. You’ll learn about key supervisory skills including decision-making, planning and programming, tendering for new work, managing people and job sites, safety planning, resolving conflict, understanding work and administration procedures, as well as being able to monitor

New Zealand’s construction industry is facing an extreme shortage of qualified, experienced supervisors. and manage other trades you have working with you.

This qualification will help you be an effective supervisor as you provide guidance and motivation to the people you work with.

Kick start or progress your career in 2016 with SIT and the Zero Fees Scheme. The Zero Fees Scheme means students pay no tuition fees just the material and administration fee for the programme. With the flexibility of study to fit around your schedule this provides a great opportunity to build your future!

Project Management Project Management is a growth sector applicable across many disciplines and employment sectors. SIT's Project Management courses offer the chance for students to understand the project life-cycle, how to plan and implement projects, and management of all aspects of a project from proposal to completion.

After you’ve successfully qualified in this programme, you’ll then be eligible to enrol in BCITO’s highest level qualification National Certificate in Construction Trades (Main Contract Supervision) (Level 5) and

take a further step in your career. BCITO’s supervisor qualifications typically take 10-12 months to complete.

To find out more contact BCITO on 0800 422 486.

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National Certificate in Project Management, National Diploma in Project Management, Diploma in Project Management. These programmes will be delivered via blended mixed mode so students have concentrated block courses as well as through distance learning.

Delivered through SIT2LRN distance learning faculty, this course teaches students occupational health and safety systems, practices and programmes covering management of hazards and systems in the workplace, the development of safety programmes, monitoring, auditing and assessment.

What are you waiting for?! Enrol now www.sit.ac.nz or email info@sit.ac.nz for more information.

50 Building Innovations NZ

Health and Safety / Weathertightness

INTAKS system a winner Joel Warren and Lew Cleveland operate Tauranga based INTAKS NZ Ltd, a company that designs and markets a revolutionary, highly flexible and efficient scaffolding and edge protection system The journey began 15 years ago when Lew started designing an access system that would have a minimal impact onsite and deliver efficiencies to the construction of the build and the labour to install the scaffold or edge protection. It proved to have immediate benefits for the industry.

He approached the design of how the system would fit together, including the aluminium planks from a totally different perspective. INTAKS planks interlock together end on end as well as side by side, giving an amazing amount of design flexibility, and creating a uniform platform which can achieve spans up to 4.8m.

“Our design for attaching components together makes it very efficient time-wise and our patented spring clip design means that handrails can be installed toolless and ten times quicker,” Warren says.

Sitting behind the design’s thinking was the desire to substantially reduce the labourinput it takes to erect and dismantle the scaffolding by making it as user-friendly, light-weight and as flexible as possible while maintaining essential safety integrity.

Another advantage of the INTAKS system is in the way it attaches itself to the building, allowing builders to continue to install windows and soffits while the roof is being installed without interruption. This has proved to be an important factor for many group building companies as it allows for the house to become closed in within a quicker timeframe and securing that all important progress payment.

INTAKS can be hung from structures such as eaves, parapets and tilt slabs, having a minimal impact on site, allowing for work to continue underneath and progress to continue. These same fixtures can then stay within the building to allow for the future proofing of maintenance work in the years to come.

Given that the construction industry is experiencing a boom all over New Zealand especially in key areas such as Auckland Warren says there can be delays for builders and contractors in accessing scaffolding.

“While we have many scaffolders supplying our product nationwide there is still a lot more demand than supply. This is something we are constantly working on.”

Rather than resting on its laurels, time and energy continue to be put into adding value to the systems componentry.

A few months ago a new Apex Post evolved, affording a safe work method and better protection for scaffolders to install edge protection to gables.

With the INTAKS system proving its worth, focus by the company has also evolved toward acting in a consultative capacity to the construction industry to resolve access solutions.

While the residential building sector has been looking for solutions to speed up their construction while putting safety measures in place, the commercial industry is also looking for other options to provide safety for working at height.

Joel says INTAKS offers real solutions.

“We are great at problem-solving and have been developing solutions specific to commercial construction. It’s just a case of getting in touch with us and letting us know the scope of works to be completed.”

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Helping homeowners to repair leaky homes The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) runs the Financial Assistance Package (FAP) under the Weathertight Homes Resolution Services Act (WHRS Act).

FAP provides financial assistance from the Crown, and sometimes from the council, towards repairing leaky homes.

In order to receive assistance, leaky homeowners must first be eligible for the WHRS – meaning they must lodge a claim within 10 years of their home being completed (often the date of completion is when the Code Compliance Certificate was issued), and they must have at least one leak that has caused damage.

Other criteria must also be met, such as not naming the council in any dispute resolution proceedings, getting a detailed assessor’s report from MBIE, agreeing a repair plan, and showing that the homeowner can fund their share of costs.

MBIE has a team dedicated to helping homeowners understand their options, including FAP. MBIE’s national manager weathertight services, Phillippa Fox says owning a leaking home is a “challenging and complex situation”.

“Our staff are familiar with the issues that face homeowners and can provide clear, step-by-step guidance about how they can resolve their problems and move on,” she says.

52 Building Innovations NZ

“Our staff are familiar with the issues that face homeowners and can provide clear, step-bystep guidance....”

“One of the most difficult challenges for homeowners is knowing how to start fixing their problem, and we can help them by identifying options and most importantly, understanding their situation.”

The most obvious signs of leaks are water dripping or pooling inside when it’s raining. However, most leaky homes have less obvious signs including: sagging of ceiling linings, corrosion of fixings (i.e. screws, nails, etc), uneven floor surfaces - lifting of vinyl, mould or fungi formation on surfaces (although this is often due to poor ventilation), musty smells, swollen materials e.g. skirtings/architraves, staining or discolouration of materials or finishes, stained or rotting carpet or rusting of carpet fixings. It is also important to note that in many cases signs of leaking may not be very obvious.

Homeowners who think their home leaks, and may be eligible, should contact MBIE on 0800 11 69 26.

The MBIE website also contains information about Weathertight Services, www.leakyhomes.govt.nz

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Trade - Auckland

Housing and land supply starting to ramp up

Housing New Zealand is also a major residential developer in Auckland.

Housing New Zealand (HNZ) is also a major residential developer in Auckland.

Many HNZ sites having gained SHA status to take advantage of the PAUP density allowances.

The HPO has been consenting social housing on those sites with a focus on good urban design outcomes.

A number of developments have commenced in the last few months in New Windsor, Mount Roskill and Meadowbank, with many more consented and ready to commence.

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U N IT

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MM

Less than 12 months ago, this site was zoned Future Urban under the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan (PAUP) and undevelopable as an urban neighbourhood under the operative district plan.

Since then, comprehensive plan change and development consents have been approved under the Housing Accords and Special Housing Areas Act. Works have progressed quickly to give effect to the first stage of the subdivision of 163 lots and QD consents for house building are currently being processed.

Auckland’s housing challenges won’t be solved through greenfield subdivision and infill development alone.

Apartment and terraced housing development is envisaged in the PAUP to make the most efficient use of land.

Three apartment buildings are now under construction following their HPO consent approvals.

‘The Dylan’ in Grey Lynn has 24 apartments, including three affordable units across six storeys with ground floor commercial space.

The ‘Hypatia’ apartments on Khyber Pass Road will offer up to 60 apartments of which six will be affordable.

‘North’ apartments on Great North Road, Grey Lynn will yield 43 apartments and townhouses with four affordable units, and two commercial ground floor units for office or retail activities.

Other apartment projects have been consented, with more currently under consideration.

“North” apartments on Great North Road, Grey Lynn will provide a mix of apartment and townhouse options as well as ground floor retail/office space While development has ramped up where works have already been consented, the HPO is currently assessing a number of plan variations (with combined QD housing developments) in a variety of locations which will add substantially to Auckland’s development programme this summer.

It is exciting to see development proceeding quickly, so that real inroads can be made into Auckland’s housing shortage to meet population growth and demand.

CO

Even with the wet winter weather Auckland Council’s Housing Project Office (HPO) is seeing a marked acceleration of development works within Auckland’s 86 Special Housing Areas (SHAs).

The HPO consents the full ambit of residential development including vacant lots, stand-alone homes, terraced housing and apartment buildings as well as a wide range of associated infrastructure.

“Activity so far has been centred on earthworks, infrastructure construction and subdivision, but we are starting to see house building ramp up as the development pipeline kicks in,” said Ree Anderson, Auckland Council’s Project Director Housing.

“Part of the HPO’s success has been combined plan variation and consent applications being fast tracked together in a comprehensive manner by the HPO masterplanning and consenting teams.”

The HPO has approved 83 Qualifying Development (QD) consent applications since it was established in 2013.

More than 40 further applications for QDs are currently being assessed with more expected. Overall, the yield from consents in progress or approved will be almost 4,000 new homes or sites once complete.

The HPO has an additional 4,000 homes/ sites in consent pre-application stage, as well as another 7,500 dwellings/sites in preapplication stage for future plan variations.

“That’s a significant pipeline of supply that has been created under the Auckland Housing Accord.”

An example of the combined QD and plan variation fast-track process is the Whenuapai Village development in North-west Auckland.

PO Box 74416, Greenlane, Auckland 1546 | 3 Prescott Road, Penrose, Auckland 1061 Telephone (09) 579 3369 | Fax (09) 579 3367 Email: secretary@nzpdg.org.nz | Website: www.nzpdg.org.nz

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Building Innovations NZ 53

Trade - Christchurch

Construction set to start on Christchurch Central Library Ground work for Christchurch’s New Central Library is underway and construction of the South Island’s largest public library will begin next year.

Some 2400 ideas gathered from residents during the Your Library, Your Voice campaign helped shape the design of the new building on the Gloucester Street corner of Cathedral Square.

Along with general and specialist collections, the library will also feature exhibition and performance spaces, meeting and activity rooms, and a 200-seat community area.

New Zealand company Architectus and Danish library design experts schmidt hammer lassen (all lower case) worked in partnership on the design.

The facade was inspired by the golden colours and folds of the Port Hills, and the triangular shape of harakeke flax that once grew near the site.

Outdoor terraces are positioned to face culturally important points such as Aoraki / Mt Cook, Banks Peninsula and Mt Grey, and the ground floor with act as an extension of the public space in Cathedral Square.

The new library is due to open in mid-2018 and contractors have shown strong interest

The facade was inspired by the golden colours and folds of the Port Hills, and the shape of harakeke flax that once grew near the site.

in the $85 million project.

Seven building companies registered an interest in tendering and the three preferred tenderers selected are Leighs Construction, Southbase and Fletcher Construction.

Christchurch City Council unit manager anchor projects, Liam Nolan, says he is delighted with the response.

“It indicates the high level of interest in this key Anchor Project which has the

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potential to revitalise Cathedral Square when it opens in 2018.

“Work on the Town Hall has begun and these two major rebuilds will help instil a real sense of confidence in the Central City.”

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54 Building Innovations NZ

U N IT

CO

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▶ To Protect the Health of our Community NG ▶ To Develop & Improve the Profile of NZ R TH OU E HE Plumbers, Drainlayers & Gasfitters A LT H O F ▶ To Represent & Support our Members & Associates ▶ To be Recognised as the Leading Voice in the Industry

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Index

Company Index Arrow International Dunedin 03 477 5830

Macrennie Commercial Auckland 09 525 3330

Renovo Group Christchurch 03 349 4166

Barrett Homes Mt Maunganui 07 929 7841

Natural Log Homes Geraldine 03 693 7468

Roger Ramsey Building Te Awamutu 0274 944 905

BCITO Wellington 04 381 6581

New Haven Rebuild Christchurch 021 913 171

Sayers Construction Kuaotunu 07 866 4233

Brunel Construction Tauranga 07 578 5018

NZ Timber Industry Federation Wellington 04 473 5200

Timberlab Solutions Auckland 09 273 2888

Colin O’Neill Builders Rangiora 0274 340 306

PG Builders Christchurch 03 432 1632

Watts & Hughes Commercial Construction Auckland 09 573 5750

Federation Homes Tauranga 07 552 4002

Peter Blay Building Rangiora 03 313 2691

Forever Beech Reefton 03 732 8414

Quail Ridge Country Club Auckland 09 401 6579

Freear Philp Wellington 04 473 5966

RAW Building Queenstown 021 844 413

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Building Innovations NZ 55