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This edition of Elevate opens with a hard-hitting look at one of the country’s most pressing environmental and infrastructure challenges — slash. As extreme weather events like Cyclone Gabrielle become more frequent, the cost of unmanaged forestry debris is being felt across communities, coastlines, and council budgets. Our lead story explores how regulation, innovation, and urgency are converging to reshape the future of slash management — and what’s at stake if we fail to act.

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Annual and monthly home consents up

By Ben O’Connell

In the year ended August 2025 34,078 homes were consented in New Zealand, according to the latest Stats NZ data.

This represents a 1.3% increaseon the previous year, indicating an uptick in construction activity that reflects the optimistic outlook of much of the sector.

“The number of homes consented has started to pick up in both monthly and annual terms, but is still down one-third from its peak in mid2022,” economic indicators

Analysts note that while the overall housing market faces challenges from higher interest rates, the continued growth in consents suggests developers are responding to ongoing demand, particularly in urban areas where housing shortages remain acute.

spokesperson Michelle Feyen said.

“The uptick in consented homes has been driven partly by multi-unit developments in Auckland and Otago.” Multi-unit homes include townhouses, apartments,

retirement village units, and flats.

Stand-alone houses consented rose 1.0% to 15,755 in the year ended August 2025, while multi-unit homes consented increased 1.6% to 18,323.

In monthly terms, 3,047 homes were consented in August 2025, up 2.3% from July, reflecting a seasonal bounce in building activity. Auckland recorded the highest number of consents in the month, followed by Canterbury and Waikato.

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Slashing slash

It feels like a ‘one-in100-year’ weather event now happens every year. Flooding and landslides in the NelsonTasman region are the latest reminder of how vulnerable New Zealand is to extreme weather, and how we must prepare accordingly.

One of the most destructive costs is forestry slash: the woody debris of branches, treetops, and even whole trees left behind after logging. The impact is stark. Slash alters waterways, blocks fish passage, and suffocates estuaries. It can smoulder for weeks and even combust spontaneously.

In 2023, the Government responded to Cyclone Gabrielle and other slash disasters by proposing tighter forestry rules. Councils now have greater say over where commercial forests can be planted, and a national minimum standard for largescale erosion-prone land has been introduced.

Yet local leaders argue these changes have been inconsistent, with stricter rules only arriving after the damage is done. Forestry groups warn that while regulation is necessary, increased compliance costs might impact profits. New solutions – such as converting slash into bioenergy – are in high demand.

The root cause

When a major storm hits, slash can be swept into rivers

By Ben O’Connell

The key to preventing this damage is to stop slash from moving off the land in the first place. Forestry operators are advised to keep streams and creeks as clear as possible, and to place debris where even a 20-year flood cannot reach.

and washed downstream, tearing through farmland and coastlines, snapping fences, damaging bridges and culverts, and piling up on beaches. Communities are left footing the bill for millions of dollars’ worth of clean-up and infrastructure repair.

their migration downstream, do help, but are like an ambulance at the bottom of the cliff.

Slash has to come from somewhere. Thousands of hectares of pine plantations were devastated in the Tasman floods, forcing the forestry industry to strategise. Heeg stated that landslides and a considerable amount of windthrow, trees toppled by the storm were responsible for much of the forestry damage, rather than slash.

Nevertheless, communities downstream still had to face the damage. A bigger

challenge emerges: whether forestry practices and landuse choices are well-suited to this era of extreme weather.

Floods more frequent

Flooding is the most frequent natural hazard in Aotearoa, with a major flood event occurring on average every eight months, says Environment Canterbury’s rivers manager, David Aires.

“Canterbury is home to many flood and hazard-prone areas and we’ve seen several significant flood events across the region in the last decade,” he says.

“With climate change effects, more intense and unpredictable weather events are likely to occur more often resulting in severe impacts on our communities. This highlights the need to invest in better flood resilience now to ensure essential lifeline infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, are safe in the future.”

Principal scientist of natural hazards for Earth Sciences New Zealand, Dr Emily Lane, adds that flooding is not only our nation’s most frequent hazard, but also one of our most costly.

“Treasury estimates that Cyclone Hale, the Auckland Anniversary Floods and Cyclone Gabrielle caused up to $14.5 billion of damage. While that was an exceptional year, on average, we could face around $200 million annually in damage to buildings alone. The recent events in the Nelson and Marlborough regions emphasise that flooding is a nationwide problem.”

Slash management is becoming not just an environmental issue but a life-saving necessity. “We need more investment in infrastructure to help reduce the impacts, like making sure we’re rebuilding with resilience in mind – stronger and in safer places when possible,” Dr Lauren Vinnell, Senior Lecturer of Emergency Management, Joint Centre for Disaster Research, Massey University, says.

The costs aren’t only financial. “Any experience of flooding can have harmful psychological impacts, but we know that it’s even worse when people go through multiple events, especially back-to-back, like we’re starting to see more often,” Vinnell says. “Unfortunately, it looks like repeated floods are only going to get more common, so we need to start preparing for this.”

The future of forestry

So, what can be done? The Government has committed more than $10 million to

research how woody biomass can be better used. Pilot projects are underway to test whether slash could replace coal in industrial boilers or feed into local bioenergy schemes. This aligns with the Forestry and Wood Processing Industry Transformation Plan, which aims to reduce waste, support biofuels, and extract more value from forestry by-products.

Bioenergy Association executive officer Brian Cox says we must not see slash as a headache, but as an energy solution. “While slash lies rotting in forests, it costs communities in terms of flood damage, but as fuel it could slice household electricity bills,” he says. With proper planning and pricing, biomass could provide up to 27% of New Zealand’s energy needs by 2050.

Energy from forest residue sells at about $16 a gigajoule (GJ), less than half the $36/ GJ cost of electricity. A single gigajoule can heat 25–50 homes for a year; the average

New Zealand household uses around 36 GJ annually. Cox says putting a price on slash would create incentives to clear debris before it becomes dangerous, turning a liability into a resource. The challenge in making bioenergy viable on a large scale lies in infrastructure.

In response to recent slash disasters, the Government is overhauling the forestry rules. Proposed updates to the National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry (NES-CF) include giving councils more say over where new forests can be planted, requiring large slash to be removed (especially in erosion-prone zones), and mandating a Slash Mobilisation Risk Assessment (SMRA) as part of all harvest plans.

Yet critics say progress has been uneven. Local leaders in Tairāwhiti and Wairoa (and in parts of Hawke’s Bay) argue enforcement remains under-resourced and patchy. Forestry groups warn that

while increased regulation is needed, it will bring higher costs and could drive some producers out of the industry, especially in regions with steep terrain or marginal land. Managing slash boils down to a tough balance between sustaining a major export industry while preventing social and environmental harm.

So, what can be done?

The Government has committed more than $10 million to research how woody biomass can be better used. Pilot projects are underway to test whether slash could replace coal in industrial boilers or feed into local bioenergy schemes.

Industry exhausted and sick, warns new MATES survey

By Ben O’Connell

Half of workers reported experiencing pain, illness or disability in the 2025 MATES in Construction Industry Well-being Survey, which is more than double the national adult rate.

Supported by ASB, MATES were recently joined by the Minister for Mental Health, Matt Doocey, to launch the results of the industry survey on World Suicide Prevention Day.

The report reveals that construction workers are enjoying their mahi, with many finding satisfaction and connection in their work—however, fatigue, high workload, stigma, and financial strain are prevalent.

Key stressors for industry workers included exhaustion (40%), high workload (23%), time pressures (17%) and fear of making mistakes (16%). These stressors not

It’s important that what they’ve told us about mental health experiences — challenges and successes alike — is heard. The data we’ve gathered and the stories they’ve shared will help us ignite hope and spark real change for our industry.

only affect how workers feel but also slow productivity, increase mistakes, and raise on-site safety risks.

“The Well-being Survey gives our mates in the industry a chance to speak up and tell us how they’re doing, and we’re grateful to everyone who shared their kōrero with us,” says MATES in Construction Chief Executive John Chapman.

“It’s important that what they’ve told us about mental health experiences — challenges and successes alike — is heard. The data we’ve gathered and the stories they’ve shared will help us ignite hope and spark real change for our industry.”

Money worries are a major pressure point for workers, with 29% citing financial stress as a key concern. The report serves as a reminder that pressures don’t stop at the site gate: pressures at home follow workers on to the site just as work stress follows them home.

MATES’ partner ASB is developing ‘Nail Your Finances’, a free workshop specifically designed for construction workers, which will be delivered across Aotearoa.

ASB General Manager of Commercial Banking Ben Speedy says the financial wellbeing workshop will cover practical tools to help build money confidence

and hopefully relieve some pressure around finances.

“The Nail Your Finances workshops will be run by ASB’s Community Bankers at local trade stores, giving workers useful information in a space that’s familiar to them.

“We share MATES’ ambition for healthy, strong worksites, and we’re pleased to be able to build on our support of the MATES mental health helpline with another targeted initiative off the back of this research.”

John Chapman added: “We’re extremely grateful to ASB for their continued support and their commitment to this kaupapa, and the opportunity to work alongside them to make positive change for our industry,”

The 2025 Well-being Survey builds on the real progress made since the first industrywide survey in 2023. That earlier data helped secure ASB funding for the free 24/7 MATES helpline, supported a $1 million national grant

to expand services into the regions, informed the government’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan refresh, and strengthened partnerships between industry and mental health organisations.

The survey has now grown into one of the largest community-based mental health studies in New Zealand, with over 3,300 workers from the construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors participating this year. The findings provide the clearest picture yet of how workers are really doing.

Coroner statistics remain stark: construction workers are nine times more likely to die by suicide than in a workplace accident, with

more than one worker lost to suicide every week. Yet, the survey also offers hope, confirming that mateship and connection matter. Only 2.6% of workers highly engaged with MATES reported suicidal tendencies, compared to 4.7% of those who had little or no MATES support.

“We’re really pleased to learn that engagement with MATES makes such a huge difference,” says Dr Lauren Donnan, MATES’ Research Lead.

“This survey clearly shows the urgent need for sustained investment, leadership commitment, and system-wide change — so that what workers say keeps them well is embedded in every workplace. Mental health needs to be given the

same importance as physical health and safety.”

The 2025 Well-being Survey makes one thing clear: stress and mental strain, alongside years of physical wear and tear, are driving both health and safety risks in the construction industry.

Workers know what supports their wellbeing, mateship, time with whānau, fair pay, and strong leadership, but too often productivity and deadlines take priority. Closing that gap is essential. By listening to workers and embedding what keeps them well into every workplace, the industry can build safer, healthier, and more productive workspaces for all.

This survey clearly shows the urgent need for sustained investment, leadership commitment, and system-wide change — so that what workers say keeps them well is embedded in every workplace. Mental health needs to be given the same importance as physical health and safety.

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Infrastructure champions celebrated at CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards

New Zealand’s civil construction sector took centre stage in Tauranga at the 2025 CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards, where the country’s most impactful infrastructure projects were recognised at the annual Civil Contractors Conference.

This year’s winning projects reflected the scope, scale, and technical excellence of the industry — from emergency bridge repairs and water network resilience to large-scale highways and international hydro developments.

Civil Contractors New Zealand chief executive Alan Pollard

said the calibre of entries demonstrated what the sector is capable of when contractors, clients, and communities align.

“These awards highlight the incredible results that are possible when we combine engineering expertise with collaboration and innovation. These projects don’t just build infrastructure — they strengthen communities, improve resilience, and support economic growth across New Zealand.”

Brian Perry Civil won in the $50M–$100M category for its work on the Kaitoke Flume Pipe Bridge — a critical piece of infrastructure that delivers 60% of Wellington’s water supply. Replacing the earthquake-prone structure required precision engineering and seamless execution, with the project delivered five months ahead of schedule and with no disruption to the water network.

Judges praised the “very complex” project’s innovative approach, robust

planning, and stakeholder engagement in a highly sensitive environment.

The Te Ahu a Turanga Alliance — comprising Waka Kotahi, Fulton Hogan, HEB Construction, Aurecon, WSP and five iwi partners — took out the top award in the Over $100M category for the Manawatū–Tararua Highway project.

Spanning 12 kilometres and featuring the Southern Hemisphere’s widest balanced cantilever bridge, the project included over 6.5 million cubic metres of earthworks and complex environmental and cultural integration.

The judges described the highway as “a benchmark in large-scale infrastructure delivery,” applauding the quality outcomes in a physically and socially challenging setting.

In the Under $2M category, HEB Construction was recognised for its emergency repair of KiwiRail Bridge 57 over the Rangitata River, damaged during severe flooding in April 2024.

Within two days, crews were on site. Freight traffic resumed within ten days, and full permanent works were completed in six weeks. The rapid response and technical execution in an unpredictable river environment were highlighted as an outstanding example of emergency civil works.

Isaac Construction won the $2M–$10M category for the Aldwins–Ensors–Ferry intersection upgrade in Christchurch — a $2.7M project completed during a tightly scheduled seven-day road closure.

The team upgraded one of the city’s busiest intersections, incorporating long-term resilience and safety improvements while avoiding major disruption. Judges noted the incident-free

delivery, clear execution, and lasting impact for road users.

In the $10M–$50M category, MAP Projects was awarded for its successful delivery of the Brenwe Small Hydro Power Plant in remote Vanuatu. The project faced significant logistical and environmental challenges, including five cyclones, COVID restrictions, and remote access.

Despite the difficulties, the four-year project delivered New Zealand-standard outcomes and employed and trained local workers. Judges commended the team’s ability to manage complex international delivery with strong community outcomes and sustainability measures.

The Auckland System Management Alliance — comprising Waka Kotahi, Fulton Hogan and HEB Construction — won the Maintenance and Asset Management category for its stewardship of Auckland and north Waikato’s state highway network, which supports 10%

“These awards highlight the incredible results that are possible when we combine engineering expertise with collaboration and innovation.

2025 winners

of the nation’s traffic. The alliance was recognised for community engagement, innovation, and ongoing performance improvement across a high-traffic urban network.

Downer received a Highly Commended award for its work managing the North Canterbury Network Outcomes Contract, noted for consistent KPI performance across a 948km roading network.

Pollard said the awards underscore the importance of early contractor involvement and the strength of collaboration between clients and contractors from day one.

“These outcomes are only possible when we have genuine partnership, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to delivering better outcomes — not just on time and budget, but for people and place.” 2025 winners

1: Projects under $2m Winner: HEB Construction Bridge 57 Pier wash-out Category 2: Projects $2m - $5m Winner: Isaac Construction Aldwins-Ensors-Ferry Intersection Upgrade

Category 3: Projects $5m - $20m

Winner: MAP Projects Brenwe Hydro Power Project

Category 4: Projects $20m - $100m

Winner: Brian Perry Civil Kaitoke Flume Pipe Bridge Replacement

Category 5: Projects over $100m

Winner: Te Ahu a Turanga Alliance Te Ahu a Turanga Manawatū Tararua Highway

Category 6: Maintenance and Management of Assets

Winner: ASM Alliance Auckland System Management

- The Tukemokihi Station 50m bridge project in Hawke’s Bay by Bridge It NZ was a Category 1 finalist.

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Hard hats, new hands: A workforce in transition

By Ben O’Connell

Tentative signs that the construction industry is recovering, such as residential consents levelling off, government infrastructure projects restarting, and falling interest rates, are to be celebrated, says the New Zealand Chinese Building Industry Association (NZCBIA).

However, the main focus of the report was on the workforce, with demographics changing and a growing need to invest in people to service the expected increase in construction activity.

The report found the workforce is younger and more diverse than ever before, especially in Auckland, where Chinese workers make up 12% of the sector. And though still male-dominated,

New Zealand has 81,000 active construction enterprises, a figure that has declined from 82,000 the year prior. The sector directly employs 281,000 people, and a further 247,000 are supported through supplier networks, accounting for 18% of jobs nationwide.

Almost 70% of the construction sector revenue goes to suppliers, showing the sector’s deep reliance on a broad range of industries. Many of these businesses are local and heavily impacted by fluctuations in construction activity.

the number of women in the sector grows each year.

revenue goes to suppliers, showing the sector’s deep reliance on a broad range of industries. Many of these businesses are local and heavily impacted by fluctuations in construction activity.

But the big issue is retention. Nearly 95% of hiring is to replace staff who are leaving their positions. Only 6% of workers remain in the same

job after five years. 37% of workers have been in their role for less than one year, as has been the case for a while.

High staff turnover drives up recruitment and training expenses, reduces productivity, and contributes to higher accident rates. At the same time, just a third of new entrants arrive with relevant qualifications or experience.

This shows how important structured training strategies are, particularly as the sector positions itself for future growth. Employees who undergo training are far more likely to see wage increases and deliver stronger business results.

BCITO welcomed the report. “The ability of our employers and industries to respond to growth opportunities relies heavily on sufficient levels of skilled professionals across all

The report’s economists are optimistic that the worst of the recession is behind us and that household spending and tourism will improve over the next three years, with strong growth expected in 2026 and 2027.

support economic recovery through effective staff training and development,” he says.

The NZCBIA 2025 Construction Sector Report painted a picture of hope, despite New Zealand’s construction sector generating $94 billion in revenue in 2025, from $99 billion the year prior.

The Government’s focus on encouraging investment in infrastructure and housing also instils optimism. Take the National Infrastructure Pipeline, which shows planned future projects totalling $207 billion across the central government, the local government, and the private sector.

There are 9,800 consented homes in Auckland awaiting development, and a backlog of delayed or postponed projects, which is likely to drive renewed activity when market conditions improve. And that’s only one region.

levels of construction,” says BCITO Director Greg Durkin.

“Industry and Government investment in training now is critical to ensure we have the right numbers of people, with the right skills, in the right trades, at the right time.

“BCITO is committed to working with industry to

Prepared by noted economist Shamubeel Eaqub, the sector report gives key insights into the economic drivers, the structural state, and the future direction of the construction sector.

“This year, the sector has continued to face real challenges,” says Frank Xu, NZCBIA President. “Activity has slowed, some businesses have stepped back, and uncertainty has tested our resilience. Yet these cycles are not new to us; they are part of the rhythm of construction. “Behind the numbers, there are real signs of momentum returning,” he says. “After some very difficult years, we are seeing the green shoots of much-needed recovery.

“We need to invest in people now, before the next wave of activity begins,” says Xu. “Training isn’t just a cost — it’s a competitive advantage. The smartest firms are planning ahead.

“As we look to the future, construction will be shaped by innovation, diversity, and sustainability.”

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Can infrastructure pay for itself?

NZ Infrastructure Commission explores the possibilities

New research from the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission is examining whether public infrastructure investments, such as roads, schools, hospitals, and water systems, can eventually generate enough revenue to cover their own costs.

Peter Nunns, General Manager of Strategy at the Commission, said that while the social and economic benefits of infrastructure are well understood, how these projects are paid for remains less clear. He noted that all infrastructure must be funded somehow, but the mechanisms for doing so are not always straightforward.

The challenge of funding new infrastructure

One common method of funding new infrastructure is through higher user charges or increased tax rates. However, according to a recent Ipsos

survey, although many New Zealanders support increased infrastructure investment, few are willing to pay more through taxes or charges to make it happen.

An alternative approach is to invest in infrastructure projects that indirectly generate revenue—by stimulating economic activity or increasing usage, for example—leading to higher returns from existing taxes, rates, or user fees. The Commission’s latest report, Paying it back: An examination of the fiscal returns of public infrastructure investment, explores when and how this model is viable.

When infrastructure pays for itself

According to the report, projects that are cost-effective and serve a large population are more likely to recover their costs through increased revenue. Prioritising high-value projects can enhance New Zealand’s ability to invest in future infrastructure needs. However, the threshold for a project to fully pay for itself is extremely high. Nunns explained that the government typically only captures a small portion of the economic value created through infrastructure investments.

For a transport project to break even fiscally, it must deliver social and economic benefits at least five to nine times greater than its cost to generate enough new tax revenue.

The report also highlights that incremental infrastructure expansion—adding to networks bit by bit as demand grows—tends to deliver better fiscal returns. In contrast, large-scale “big bang” developments often fail to produce enough revenue and must be subsidised from general taxation, potentially at the expense of other critical services like healthcare and education.

Insights from local councils

One of the report’s case studies looked at seven large or rapidly growing urban councils over 25 years. It assessed how much each spent on infrastructure to accommodate population growth, including both construction and maintenance costs.

The findings showed mixed outcomes. Some councils managed to recover their costs through increased rates revenue and development contributions from new buildings. Others, however, spent more than they gained.

Councils that scaled infrastructure growth in step with population increases were significantly more likely to break even or generate a surplus over the 25-year timeframe.

Beyond the bottom line

While revenue generation is an important consideration, Nunns stressed that the core purpose of public infrastructure is to improve community wellbeing, not necessarily to be profitable. However, with the dual pressures of an ageing population and slowing productivity growth straining public finances, fiscal sustainability will need to become a more prominent consideration in infrastructure planning.

Report highlights and case studies

The Paying it Back report includes three detailed case studies to illustrate how different types of infrastructure investments perform financially:

Local government infrastructure (2007–2031):

This case study analyses infrastructure investment across seven councils— Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, Christchurch, QueenstownLakes, and Dunedin—to assess long-term fiscal impacts of populationdriven growth.

Major transport projects:

The study evaluates the fiscal returns from four significant transport initiatives:

• Ōtaki to north of Levin (O2NL) motorway

• Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway

• Warkworth to Wellsford motorway

• Auckland’s City Rail Link (CRL)

Value capture scenarios:

A hypothetical analysis tests the effectiveness of a value capture levy—a tool that collects a portion of increased property values resulting from infrastructure improvements. Different project characteristics and population densities were modelled to assess the impact on revenue recovery.

Key takeaways

The report outlines four key lessons for boosting revenue from infrastructure investments:

• High-quality, costeffective projects serving more users tend to generate stronger fiscal returns

• The threshold for a project to fully pay for itself is high

• Incremental growth in infrastructure often yields better financial outcomes than large-scale projects

• Attaching dedicated revenue streams, such as levies or targeted rates, can significantly improve fiscal sustainability.

As New Zealand continues to grapple with infrastructure needs amid fiscal constraints, these findings provide valuable guidance for decisionmakers looking to balance public benefit with economic reality.

Preventing potholes

By Ben O’Connell

Nearly all potholes on New Zealand’s state highways are now being repaired within 24 hours, as the Transport Agency steps up preventative measures using new technology.

In Hawke’s Bay, where heavy rain, cyclones and road damage have made potholes a frequent hazard, those efforts are especially critical.

When it comes to road maintenance, one focus for the Government is preventing potholes. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) continues to deliver its annual state highway renewal programme, thanks to $2.07 billion in investment for pothole prevention, focusing on road and drainage maintenance and renewals. Over 21,000 newly rebuilt or resealed roads are promised, with almost 300 lane kilometres dedicated to delivering new roads and replacing old seals and pavements.

In Hawke’s Bay, that work is badly needed. Following Cyclone Gabrielle and periods of significant rainfall, many stretches of state highways in the region have deteriorated rapidly.

“Continuing our focus on rebuilding roads will reduce the number of potholes appearing on the state highway network during winter months, ensuring that New Zealanders experience stress-free travel year-round,”

Transport Minister Chris Bishop says. After tripling delivery to over 300 lane kilometres last summer, repeating that this summer keeps the foot on the accelerator as NZTA works to improve the condition of the network.

In Hawke’s Bay, that work is badly needed. Following Cyclone Gabrielle and periods of significant rainfall, many stretches of state highways in the region have deteriorated rapidly. Tūpore, a tyre repair shop based in Hastings, recently reported unusually high demand, repairing multiple tyre blowouts in a

single day as motorists battered by potholes sought help.

Meanwhile, compensation claims for pothole damage in Hawke’s Bay have soared from just two per year precoronavirus to over 180 annually. Hawke’s Bay now ranks as one of the worst regions for potholes, second only to the Bay of Plenty.

The Tīrau to Waiouru programme is also progressing, combining road rebuilding with asphalt surfacing at multiple sites. Bishop says road users are already noticing the improvements.

NZTA has introduced new risk-based traffic management guidance to improve safety and efficiency on the network, ensuring traffic controls (cones, signs, etc.) are tailored to each site’s actual risk level.

Minimising the “sea of cones” across roads has been a key focus this year to reduce disruption during works. NZTA is using data-driven technology to prevent potholes before they appear. Survey vehicles and sensors monitor road conditions across the state highway network, identifying areas at high risk of deterioration. This allows maintenance crews to proactively target repairs rather than wait for damage to occur.

According to NZTA figures, 98% of potholes on state highways nationwide have been repaired within 24 hours. Advanced monitoring and predictive tools are helping NZTA prevent potholes from forming, keeping traffic flowing more smoothly and reducing disruption for motorists and freight operators alike.

“Increasing productivity to help rebuild our economy is a key priority for the Government,” former Transport Minister Simeon Brown said in 2024.

“Boosting pothole repairs and prevention will deliver a safe and reliable network that will support growth.”

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m 0800 222 234

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K www.kahuscaffolding.co.nz

Professional Property Managers in Hawkes Bay

Covering the Napier and Hastings broader areas.

Why choose us?

At Robert’s Property Management our priority is to optimise your rental investment. This means more than just collecting rent. It means offering a complete, personal service that pays careful attention to important services like tenant selection, maintenance and regular inspections. We pride ourselves on very high occupancy rates, due to our dedication and our quick response to the market. We would love to assist you to improve the performance of your property or portfolio.

We offer:

A specialised, customised property management service

Comprehensive tenant selection, a zero rent arrears policy, excellent systems in place

Regular rent reviews

We offer a flat fee with no hidden costs and our fees are very competitive!

We are property investors too

We use the latest technology (cloud, which means you can access your info …)

Free Regular inspections

We encourage open communication. We are here to listen to you. You can choose how involved you would like to be in the management of your property.

About Us

Robert’s Property Management is a professional property management company based in Hawkes Bay. Situated on the sunny shores of Napier. Roberts Rentals provide their services across Napier and Hastings area.

Proactive, reliable and friendly, the team at Roberts Rentals are small but dedicated to ensuring their landlords and tenants alike receive an exemplary client experience. Understanding the key factors of a customer-centric business such as property management is vital.

Communication, industry and legislation knowledge, and empathy are not-negotiable. We pride ourselves on a very high occupancy rate achieved due to our dedication and speed of service we provide to the market.

Our promise to you.. “we will never put someone in your property that we wouldn’t put in one of ours”. This is a core difference between us and other property managers.

Established in 2011.

Carbon-storing construction materials

Researchers say new building materials could cut global CO₂ emissions in half

By Jonathan Taylor

A recent study by U.S. researchers suggests that replacing conventional building materials with carbonstoring alternatives could remove up to 6.6 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere annually—about half of the human-caused CO₂ emissions recorded in 2021.

These alternatives include concrete infused with carbon-capturing aggregates and bricks made from biobased materials.

Experts in New Zealand say the findings present a promising opportunity, especially considering the country’s natural resources and existing industries. Associate Professor David Dempsey from the University of Canterbury notes that carbon removal through construction materials could become a significant part of climate change mitigation strategies.

A major contributor would be concrete that incorporates CO 2 -absorbing minerals, such as dunite rock, which is abundant in regions like Nelson and Southland. However, he emphasises the need for high-purity CO 2 sources, such as emissions from biomass boilers, and for thorough testing to ensure the

durability and safety of these new materials.

Dempsey adds that New Zealand’s robust forestry sector gives it another edge, especially in substituting traditional materials with timber-based alternatives. But to capitalize on this, he says, regulatory support is essential.

Policies must acknowledge the carbon embodied in building materials, possibly by incorporating it into the Emissions Trading Scheme. He also cautions that storage is only as permanent as the building’s lifespan — CO2 stored in materials could eventually be released if not properly managed after demolition.

Professor Suzanne Wilkinson from Auckland University

of Technology echoes the potential but highlights significant industry barriers. The construction sector is cautious by nature and driven largely by cost, time, quality and safety.

She points out that even if carbon-storing materials are certified and effective, they may not be adopted if they are more expensive, require new training, or complicate supply chains.

Overcoming these obstacles, she suggests, would require educating clients, introducing supportive legislation, or adjusting taxes and trade policies to make new materials more viable.

Diego Elustondo of Scion adds another layer to the conversation, emphasising the

long-standing carbon benefits of wood-based materials. He cautions that the paper may overstate the benefits of experimental masonry materials, which are not yet commercially viable, while downplaying the proven performance and sustainability of timber.

He points to Scion’s timberbased building in Rotorua, which stores 418 tonnes of CO 2, as a real-world example of how forestry products can contribute to climate goals.

Together, these expert insights underscore that while material innovation offers real promise, practical, policy, and industry-level changes are critical to unlocking its full potential.

Easing access to crucial materials New legislation to open the NZ market to international building products

A reform in New Zealand’s building sector is set to transform the way building materials are sourced and approved, promising greater choice, reduced costs, and improved resilience to supply chain shocks.

Passed on 2 April 2025, the Building (Overseas Building Products, Standards, and Certification Schemes) Amendment Bill aims to streamline the use of internationally certified building products by integrating them more efficiently into the local regulatory framework.

By the end of July 2025, over 12,000 essential products — including plasterboard, cladding, and insulation — will become easier to use under the new system. These reforms represent a significant step in expanding access to a broader global building products market, while ensuring compliance with the New Zealand Building Code.

Building and Construction

Minister Chris Penk says, “Builders and designers will soon be able to count on highquality products from overseas being accepted by Building Consent Authorities (BCAs), eliminating unnecessary delays and reducing project costs.

The current system has long been criticised for limited competition, high

Builders and designers will soon be able to count on high-quality products from overseas being accepted by Building Consent Authorities (BCAs), eliminating unnecessary delays and reducing project costs.

- Chris Penk, Building and Construction Minister

material costs, and sluggish productivity. The 2022 plasterboard (GIB) shortage highlighted the sector’s vulnerability to disruptions in local supply chains.

With just a handful of dominant players, the building materials market in New Zealand has lacked the flexibility and competitive pricing seen in comparable economies.

Minister Penk highlighted the gravity of the issue.

“It is unacceptable that it

costs around 50% more to build a standalone home in New Zealand than it does in Australia. Since 2019, building costs have risen over 40%, and productivity levels have remained stagnant since 1985.”

By reducing regulatory red tape and introducing recognised international certification schemes, the Government aims to bring New Zealand in line with global best practices, making building faster, more efficient, and less costly.

Making certification and compliance easier

Under the new legislation, products certified through internationally recognised standards and schemes — vetted and endorsed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) — must be accepted by BCAs, provided they are used as intended. These changes will reduce the burden on BCAs, builders, and designers to prove compliance, creating a more streamlined consent process.

“The Bill targets every level of the product assurance system: standards, certification schemes, and compliance pathways,” explained Suzannah Toulmin, Manager of Consenting and Practitioners Policy at MBIE. “Our goal is to deliver the greatest benefit across the entire sector.”

Key features of the reform package include:

• Recognition of overseas standards and certification schemes: Reducing duplication in compliance processes

• Building Product Specifications: Simplifying how international standards can be cited and used alongside the Building Code

• Mandatory BCA acceptance: Requiring BCAs to accept overseas-certified products recognised by MBIE, ensuring consistency and reliability.

However, the oversight of BCAs remains crucial. BCAs will still assess proposed building work to confirm that products are being used appropriately and that the final outcome meets

This Bill aims to reduce the cost of building products, strengthen our resilience to supply shortages, and give more choice to the people designing and building homes. It’s about making the system work better for everyone involved.

Building Code requirements. The core principles of safety, durability, and health remain non-negotiable.

While the immediate focus is on improving access to foreign products, the Bill is also expected to benefit local manufacturers. By enabling local products to be tested against internationally accepted standards, New Zealand-made materials could become more competitive on the global stage.

“This is not just about imports,” Chris Penk says. “It’s also about empowering local producers to meet international benchmarks, opening the door to lucrative export opportunities.”

Part of a broader reform

The Bill is one component of a comprehensive reform programme aimed at modernising New Zealand’s building and construction sector. Other measures include:

• Simplifying the process for minor variations and customisation within building consents

• Removing the building levy on projects under $65,000

• Expanding digital tools and pathways for faster approval processes.

These collective reforms are designed to tackle longstanding barriers in the sector and bring about a more agile, competitive, and efficient building system.

“This Bill aims to reduce the cost of building products, strengthen our resilience to supply shortages, and give more choice to the people designing and building homes,” Toulmin says. “It’s about making the system work better for everyone involved.”

Looking forward

With implementation just weeks away, the industry is bracing for a shift that could redefine how building work is done in New Zealand. For professionals across the construction value chain, the changes represent both a challenge and an opportunity to adapt, innovate, and build a more competitive and sustainable future.

As Chris Penk put it: “Once these changes take effect, Kiwis will be able to tap into the global building product market — and finally pay a fair price for quality construction.”

The changes target each level of the building product system and will:

• Enable recognition of overseas standards and standards certification schemes, therefore removing the need for designers, builders or Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) to verify standards

• Streamline the citing of international standards with the new Building Product Specification, which can be used with Building Code documents to show compliance with the Building Code

• Require BCAs to accept building products certified overseas and recognised by the regulator, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

- Suzannah Toulmin

A1 BUILDING MOVERS

Based in the sunny Hawke’s Bay region, A1 Building Movers have over 45 years experience in the house moving trade.

The team at A1 Building Movers will help move anything from boats, garages, steel frames and batches, to cottages, houses of all shapes and sizes, as well as classrooms for schools.

4 House or Building Removal

4 Shed or Garage Relocation

4 House Transport

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4 Boat or Yacht Relocation

4 Class 1 piloting of “Over Dimensions” loads

4 House Lifting for a Basement

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4 Occasional Homes for Sale

0800 421 6683 | 027 571 0191 dave@a1buildingmovers.co.nz www.a1buildingmovers.co.nz

Premium Plumbing Leak Detection Solutions

• Homes & Apartments

• Commercial Facilities

• Insurance Industry

• Schools & Aged Care Facilities

• Subsistence Housing

• Water Utilities

• Rural & Agriculture

• Local Government

• Building Codes

AquaTrip is a permanently installed Leak Detection System with an integrated automatic Shutoff Valve.

It functions as a Water Trip Switch, constantly monitoring all the plumbing pipes, fittings and water using appliances on the property.

If it detects a leak, a tap left running or some other plumbing failure, it will shut off the water automatically, to minimise water damage, prevent excess water bills and save water.

You can easily turn the water back on when required.

AquaTrip is a permanently installed Leak Detection System with an integrated automatic Shutoff Valve. Shop in-store at one of our accredited retailers or shop online for NZ-wide shipping, including Auckland, Tauranga, and Wellington. We stock both commercial and residential water leak detection systems to protect your home or commercial property from accidental flood damage has never been easier.

HOW IT WORKS YOUR HOME. PROTECTED.

Premium Water Leak Detection Systems

Protect your home from costly water leaks, install an Aquatrip water safety trip.

Aquatrip water leak detection systems essentially functions as a Water Trip Switch, constantly monitoring all the plumbing pipes, fittings and water using appliances on the property.

If it detects a leak, a tap left running or some other plumbing failure, it will shut off the water automatically, to minimise water damage, prevent excess water bills and save water. You can easily turn the water back on when required.

It can detect the difference between your normal water use and a plumbing leak or tap left running by mistake, protecting your entire plumbing system.

It is easily programmable to suit your home and lifestyle.

¼07 5520322

¼0800552032

ºleo@aquatrip.co.nz

í5 Bristol Avenue, Brookfield, Tauranga

Ôwww.aquatrip.co.nz

Too hot to handle

By Jamie Quinn

Before we know it, summer will be back, and so will the heatwaves, restless nights, and soaring indoor temperatures.

For many New Zealanders, especially those living in modern townhouses, the warmer months don’t just bring beach days and barbecues. They bring heat, intense, sometimes overwhelming heat that turns living spaces into sweltering ovens.

Recent data from the Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ) backs up what many of us already feel: New Zealand homes can get seriously hot in summer. According to a survey conducted during the 2023/24 summer, a whopping 70% of people said their homes were warmer than they wanted at least some of the time. And interestingly, it wasn’t just in the country’s traditionally warmer regions. Wellingtonians reported higher rates of discomfort

According to a survey conducted during the 2023/24 summer, a whopping 70% of people said their homes were warmer than they wanted at least some of the time. And interestingly, it wasn’t just in the country’s traditionally warmer regions.

than Aucklanders, despite recorded temperatures in their homes being actually lower. That suggests that design, layout, and ventilation — rather than outdoor temperatures alone — play a major role in how hot a home feels.

That brings us to townhouses. Compact, efficient, and often more affordable than standalone homes, townhouses are an increasingly popular housing choice, especially in urban centres like Christchurch, which now has the highest concentration of townhouses in the country. According to a recent report, townhouses now make up around 24% of Christchurch’s

housing stock. But alongside their rapid rise in popularity has come a growing concern: they might just be too good at trapping heat.

In December, just as the heat started to ramp up, a Christchurch townhouse resident went public with concerns after recording bedroom temperatures that hit an unbelievable 50 degrees Celsius. While this might be an extreme case, it’s not an isolated experience. Across the country, townhouse dwellers are reporting indoor heat levels that are not just uncomfortable but potentially unsafe.

What’s causing the issue?

A lot of it comes down to design. Many townhouses are built with energy efficiency and affordability in mind, but this often means compromises are made, particularly in terms of airflow and insulation. High-density housing tends to have less exterior wall space, which can restrict cross-ventilation. That means fewer windows to open, and less opportunity for natural breezes to pass through. Add to that the growing trend of smaller outdoor areas, darker roofing materials, and tightly packed developments that reflect heat between walls, and it’s easy to see how things heat up quickly.

Then there’s glazing. Floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors might look sleek and modern, but they also act like magnifying glasses in the summer sun. Without adequate shading or tinting, they can turn a room into a greenhouse by mid-afternoon. And if a townhouse has a north or west-facing orientation, it’s

likely to soak up the worst of the afternoon sun.

There is also a growing reliance on heat pumps, not for heating, but for cooling. Traditionally, many Kiwi homes were focused on staying warm through the winter, with heat pumps installed for those chilly months. But in recent years, that’s flipped. One Auckland installer recently described the industry shift as moving from a winter heating business to a summer cooling business. Today, nearly half of all heat pump installations in summer are reportedly going into high-density housing like townhouses.

But not everyone has a heat pump. And not every heat pump is enough to counteract the poor design

decisions that trap heat in the first place.

So what can be done?

The good news is that conversations are beginning to shift. The government is reviewing ventilation rules, with a particular focus on the needs of residents in highdensity housing. As it stands, current building standards don’t always guarantee that new homes will stay cool in summer, particularly those with limited passive airflow or inadequate insulation against heat.

For homeowners and renters, there are also some practical changes that can help make a difference. Installing thermal curtains or blinds, adding exterior shading like awnings, and opting

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT

for lighter roofing materials during re-roofing can all help reduce indoor temperatures. In some cases, retrofitting ventilation systems or upgrading insulation can be a worthwhile investment.

But the larger solution lies in how we approach housing at a design level. If townhouses are going to be a long-term part of New Zealand’s housing future, as seems likely, then they need to be built to cope with New Zealand’s increasingly extreme weather patterns. That means smarter window placement, better cross-ventilation, higherperformance glazing, and materials that reflect heat rather than absorb it.

A well-designed townhouse should be comfortable all

Mandy Keesing

The good news is that conversations are beginning to shift. The government is reviewing ventilation rules, with a particular focus on the needs of residents in highdensity housing.

year round, not just in winter. As the climate continues to change, and our cities grow taller and denser, we must take heat seriously, not as an afterthought. Because a bedroom shouldn’t feel like a sauna before sunrise, clearly, something needs to change.

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