Construction stories
Data security, risk management and outdated technologies are the top challenges facing construction businesses in Australia and New Zealand, according to IDC.
The wearable tech industry, which is set to reach $54 billion by 2023, offers a significant opportunity for the construction industry.
Homeowners could save NZD $18 million a year as councils drop consents for sheds, carports and other low-risk work from August.
New distancing and travel rules aim to help builders restart safely under Level 2, with updated protocols now available online.
Construction firms now have detailed COVID-19 rules to resume work under Alert Level 3, aiming to protect workers and avoid a return to lockdown.
Construction jobs and council investment could restart quickly, as Auckland submits 73 infrastructure projects for the Government’s stimulus list.
Lockdown has forced Invercargill Central to push back its planned opening, complicating talks with Farmers and bank financing for the project.
Cashflow support and clearer contract rules could help keep builders employed and speed New Zealand's economic recovery after the lockdown.
One-third of construction jobs are at risk as firms brace for insolvencies and shift training and services online to survive the lockdown.
Bond markets and prolonged virus disruption could strain weaker firms, with airlines, shipping and non-food retail facing the biggest risk.
Billions in COVID-19 spending could be used to unlock projects, create jobs and speed New Zealand’s economic recovery, Infrastructure NZ says.
Auckland's housing crisis could deepen if the Drury project fails to deliver affordable homes despite NZD $2.4 billion in transport spending.
Companies can face serious penalties if they hire untrained contractors, after a forestry worker suffered major chest injuries in Waitakere.
Contractors still need project-by-project details, with major transport work due to wind down within 18 months and risking industry capacity gaps.
Civil contractors say the Government must back already designed transport works quickly to protect jobs as big projects finish.
Wearlon sheaves can cut rope wear and maintenance, helping cranes, elevators and other plant stay safer for longer.
Greater transparency on future works could help New Zealand firms plan labour and capital as the pipeline tops USD $20 billion.
Mass timber is opening up faster, cheaper projects across Australia, with new code changes and local supply widening its use beyond niche builds.
New procurement rules could ease contract risk and cut legal costs, if agencies shift from lowest price to outcome-led construction deals.
The deal should improve certainty for contractors and could cut costs as Watercare pursues long-term savings and sustainability goals.