For the first time in New Zealand a couple of weeks ago, the construction industry held a conference where the whole of the industry was represented — including builders, designers, those involved in land and finance, research, training and government.
The timing was no coincidence as New Zealand is facing arguably the biggest building boom we have known, with the housing shortage in Auckland, in particular, becoming the biggest single challenge for the industry.
The purpose of the Constructive forum was to look into how, as an industry, we can lift our game through much more effective collaboration across the whole of the supply chain.
The industry is one of the biggest sectors in the New Zealand economy and, to date, has been very fragmented in how it deals with issues.
It was great to have Deputy Prime Minister Bill English and Opposition spokesman Phil Twyford address the conference.
Mr English welcomed the initiative, and indicated that the Government is open to hearing from the industry what the key issues are, and to work with us on addressing them.
Resulting from the conference, areas we will be working on as an industry are addressing the key issues of skills shortage and capacity, new and emerging business models, and standardising approaches to health and safety.
The RMBA will certainly play its part in helping to take the industry forward at an important time for New Zealand.
David Fabish Life Membership
I want to take the opportunity to acknowledge the awarding of a Life Membership to Dave Fabish at our recent AGM in Christchurch.
Dave is a stalwart of Master Builders, having been a member of the Taranaki branch where he was branch president from 2006 to 2009.
He continues to serve on the National Board which he has been a member of since 2007, and was national president from 2012 to 2014. There are many other contributions too numerous to mention here.
Congratulations Dave, and well deserved!
