Vocational education: certainty needed after years of change

Today’s announcement of further consultation around work-based vocational education was met with cautious enthusiasm by the civil construction industry, which will need to ramp up training and qualifications to deliver on the government’s infrastructure work programme.

Explainer - moving to an integrated delivery model

Unsure what an Integrated Delivery Model for NZ’s state highway road maintenance network might look like? Check out the latest explainer from CCNZ Technical Manager Michelle Farrell

TTM resource library online

Civil Contractors New Zealand has produced a new TTM resource library to support contractors, including resources, systems, news, guides and more.

Whangārei excavator operator crowned ‘King of the North’

Whangārei man Steven George showcased his steely skills to clinch victory over 12 of Northland’s top digger operators at the Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice Northland Regional Excavator Operator Competition on Saturday.

Best of Hawke's Bay and East Coast civil construction celebrated

A critical wastewater project in Hastings, a new floodgate on Mahunga Stream and a female excavator operator dubbed one of New Zealand’s best were among the projects and people honoured at the Civil Contractors New Zealand Hawke’s Bay East Coast Awards.

Blenheim woman wins ‘rumble in Richmond’ to claim local digger operator title

Blenheim’s Lydia Hill overcame a bumper field of 17 expert excavator operators to win the Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice Nelson Marlborough Regional Excavator Operator Competition on Saturday. The competition was held at the Richmond Park Showgrounds during the Nelson A&P show.

Stratford man crowned Taranaki’s smoothest digger operator

Using a 13-tonne excavator to dunk a basketball, paint a picture and traverse a stack of logs would be a herculean task for the average mortal. Not so for Stratford’s Jarrod See, who dug deep on Saturday to claim top spot in the Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice Taranaki Regional Excavator Operator Competition.

Top people and projects recognised at Canterbury Westland civil awards

Outstanding Canterbury Westland civil construction projects and high achievers were recognised at the 2024 Civil Contractors New Zealand Canterbury Westland Hynds and Liebherr Contractor of the Year Awards, held at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre.

National Excavator Operator Competition agreement signed at parliament

Civil Contractors New Zealand and CablePrice signed an agreement confirming Platinum Sponsorship and naming rights of the CCNZ CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition until 2027 at Parliament’s Grand Hall in Wellington last week.

CCNZ members save more than $6.4m with n3

CCNZ's trade discount partner n3 has saved members more than $6.4m in the past year through on account and trade card discounts. That's three times the amount of the annual membership subscription fees we collect from members!

Bay of Plenty’s civil construction stars shine at industry awards

The best of the Bay of Plenty’s civil construction projects and exceptional industry professionals were recognised at the 2024 Civil Contractors New Zealand Bay of Plenty Hynds Construction Awards, held at Classic Flyers Aviation Museum in Mt Maunganui.

Hawke’s Bay and East Coast operators compete for digger operators' hole-y grail

The three best digger operators in Hawke’s Bay and East Coast have been found after an intense day of competition at the Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice Hawke’s Bay East Coast Regional Excavator Operator Competition on Saturday.

Christchurch woman named Canterbury Westland’s best excavator operator

Christchurch local Georgia Lyford has been crowned the queen of Canterbury Westland digger operators after winning the region’s annual excavator operator competition at the Road Metals Quarry in Rolleston on Saturday.

Perpetual pavements, sustainable surfacings centre stage at The Black Art

New Zealand's technical experts on bitumen, asphalt and pavement construction took to the stage in Auckland on 11 September to share the latest techniques and knowledge at The Black Art 2024.

Introducing Track'r: a tool for measuring emissions

Civil Contractors New Zealand has developed a new app to support civil contractors in measuring and reporting on emissions consistently. Named Track’r, the new tool enables contractors across the supply chain to measure and report on emissions across a range of fleet in a consistent manner.

TTM Roadshows conclude for 2024

CCNZ and the Temporary Traffic Management Industry Steering Group joined forces throughout the year to bring clients, contractors, designers, road controlling authorities and suppliers together to discuss what the move to a risk-based approach to temporary traffic management means for the industry. More than 1,000 people attended the 13 roadshows.

CCNZ representatives for 3916 and 3917 contract review accepted

CCNZ's two nominations for the standards development committee for the revision of NZS 3916:2013 and NZS 3917:2013 have been accepted, with Paul Buetow of Dentons and Simon La Monica appointed to represent feedback from the civil construction industry.

Highlights from The Civil Contractors Conference 2024

We hope you enjoyed The Civil Contractors Conference 2024 in Invercargill. For those of you who made it along and want to re-live the highlights, we’ve got you covered! And for those who couldn’t make it along and want to see what it was all about, we have put together a handy recap.

Industry Insights with Alan Pollard - discussions with decision makers - 22 August 2024

In this latest video column, CCNZ Chief Executive Alan Pollard talks about the conversations CCNZ is having with political decision makers around what contractors need to see from the government to resolve the current market downturn.

Amazing infrastructure projects celebrated at national awards

Winning infrastructure construction companies celebrated long into the weekend following the presentation of the 45th Civil Contractors New Zealand Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards, with projects including high-voltage cables, scenic bridges, emergency transport maintenance and major motorways taking home awards.

Awards honour high-flyers and outstanding training in civil construction

Exceptional young leaders and employers demonstrating a deep dedication to staff development were recognised at the Z People Awards and Connexis Civil Training and Development Awards in Invercargill this morning.

Civil construction industry confronts economic headwinds

The Construction Industry Survey 2024 reveals declining confidence in the industry resulting from lack of projects in the market, and the expanding role of technology and diversity in improving project efficiency.

Local water construction needs urgent action

Civil Contractors New Zealand Chief Executive Alan Pollard has welcomed the Government’s long-awaited Local Water Done Well policies announced yesterday, but warns water contractors are suffering from an immediate lack of work and the country risks losing exceptional businesses.

Top projects and people feature at Waikato awards

Projects responding to summer storms and cyclone repairs, improving public safety and accessibility, upgrading facilities, and installing underground services featured amongst the year's winning projects, with awards also presented to outstanding individuals working across the region at the 2024 CCNZ Waikato Branch Hynds Construction Awards.

Outstanding Wellington contractors recognised at 2024 awards

Outstanding civil construction projects large and small were recognised at the Civil Contractors New Zealand Wellington Wairarapa Branch Awards, which were held at Wellington's Harbourside Events Centre on 3 August.

Webinar recording: Artificial intelligence in construction

CCNZ hosted a webinar on artificial intelligence in construction on 16 July. In the webinar, CCNZ Technical Manager Michelle Farrell presented a panel of local experts for an introduction to this technology , providing advice on how to get started, and an open Q+A session.

Road cone obsession distracts from better safety outcomes

Civil Contractors New Zealand Chief Executive Alan Pollard said a growing national obsession with road cones was an unhealthy distraction from the need to keep workers and road users safe on and around road work sites.

CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards - 2024 finalists announced

The finalists for the 2024 Civil Contractors New Zealand Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards have been announced, with awards to be presented on the big stage during the Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards Dinner at Southland's Bill Richardson Transport Museum on 16 August as part of CCNZ National Conference.

Z People Awards 2024 - Finalists announced

Finalists have been announced for the 2024 CCNZ Z People Awards, which recognise emerging leaders in the civil construction industry as well as those who have shown outstanding commitment to personal development.

Industry Insights with Alan Pollard - on 'taking a moment' - 11 July 2024

In this latest video column, CCNZ Chief Executive Alan Pollard talks about the need to take a moment for ourselves when the going gets tough, with callouts for the construction-specific support offered by MATES in Construction NZ and the financial support offered to CCNZ members by BNZ.

Notice of CCNZ Annual General Meeting 2024

The CCNZ 2024 Annual General Meeting will be held as part of the CCNZ Conference at the ILT Stadium (Legends Lounge), Surrey Park Road, Glengarry, Invercargill on Friday 16 August 2024 from 3.30pm to 5.00pm. CCNZ contractor members can make nominations for CCNZ Executive Council up to 19 July 2024.

Knights in shining excavators: companies join forces to create new home for Nelson’s only capuchins

A troop of cheeky capuchin monkeys is set to enjoy a larger, more natural environment at Nelson’s Natureland Zoo after local civil construction companies banded together to donate their time, machinery and materials to build them a new enclosure.

Industry Insights with Alan Pollard - immigration - 10 June 2024

In his latest video column, CCNZ Chief Executive Alan Pollard discusses the current immigration situation, including changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa and Green List.

Budget clarity welcome, infrastructure construction needs urgency

Civil Contractors New Zealand welcomes the clarity of the government’s future infrastructure investment plans provided by Budget 2024 but warns projects and work programmes may be too far in the future, and immediate stimulus is needed to sustain the industry.

Otago contractors pack out Dunedin Town hall for awards

Contractors and industry supporters packed out the Dunedin Town Hall for the CCNZ Otago Branch Hynds Construction Awards 2024, with more than 350 people attending the event to witness awards for the region's top people and projects.

Construction Industry Survey open for entries

The Construction Industry Survey 2024 is open! Complete the survey and let us know your perspective, so we can share it with decision makers and the world!

Introducing the CCNZ Business Support Programme - 27 May 2024

CCNZ Chief Executive Alan Pollard explains CCNZ's newest offering, the business support programme.

Industry insights with Alan Pollard - 2 May 2024

CCNZ Chief Executive Alan Pollard covers off his insights on New Zealand's ongoing education reforms, what they mean for the civil construction industry, and what CCNZ would like to see from the new Government in that space.

Industry Insights with Alan Pollard - 17 April 2024

CCNZ Chief Executive Alan Pollard speaks about the current state of the industry, and also what CCNZ is working on for the benefit of members, in his new video blog series - Industry Insights.

Media release: Changes to civil construction immigration short-sighted

Recently announced immigration changes are short-sighted, risk undermining the New Zealand’s ability to deliver on its infrastructure work programme and will inevitably increase the cost of delivering transport and water infrastructure.

Fourth title makes history for Otago legend at national excavator competition

Otago’s Troy Calteaux has emerged as New Zealand’s ultimate digger driver at the Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition, demonstrating his expertise to defend his title against 12 of the country’s top operators.

Big dig energy coming to Feilding as excavator operators vie for national title

New Zealand’s top excavator operators will be bringing big dig energy to Feilding at the end of this week when they roll their 13-tonne machines onto Manfeild Park for the Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition. This year’s event marks the 30th anniversary of the heavy metal showdown.

Land transport policy needs long-term stability

Civil Contractors New Zealand welcomes an increased focus on maintenance and renewals in the draft Government Policy Statement on Land Transport 2024-34, but warns against the long-term dangers of an increasingly politicised work programme.

Meet our excavator champions

Twelve regional champions will compete in the CCNZ CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition from 15-16 March at Central Districts Field Days in Feilding. Meet our contenders for the national title.

Big win for Bronson Jones as he takes Wellington excavator operator title

Bronson Jones of Bryce O'Sullivan Contracting took home the CCNZ CablePrice Wellington Regional Excavator Operator Competition title, also winning the 24th Tudor Distributors Barrel Filling Competition alongside his teammates Jono Smaha and Ryan Clarke.

Looking back at Cyclone Gabrielle, one year on

CCNZ Central Regional Manager Grant Radovanovich shares his personal reflections, one year on from Cyclone Gabrielle.

Pssst – what do they mean by a risk based approach for temporary traffic management?

CCNZ Technical Manager Michelle Farrell covers off the change in approach, following an informal 'risk inspection' on a recent visit to a live TTM site.

NZ’s civil contractors welcome incoming government

New Zealand’s civil contractors welcome the formation of New Zealand’s next government and congratulate the incoming Ministers across the three coalition partners.

Bridging the way to excellence: Connecting communities leads to Hynds Supreme Award win at the CCNZ Auckland Hynds Construction Awards

It was an evening filled with storytelling and celebration across the Auckland civil construction industry, especially for McConnell Dowell Constructors who secured the win for the CCNZ Auckland Hynds Construction Supreme Award at the CCNZ Auckland Hynds Construction Awards 2023 Gala Dinner.

Walking the talk as a Certified Civil Tradesperson

There’s an element of walking the talk to Jane Mana’s Civil Trades certification journey. After feeling like she didn't make good use of her time at school, she's found a passion for civil construction and skills development. With her grandson's words of encouragement ringing in her ears, Jane has upskilled to become a certified Civil Tradesperson.

Bay of Plenty Contractors fly high at awards

The CCNZ Bay of Plenty Branch Hynds Construction Awards took place amongst jets, torpedoes and vintage flying machines at Classic Flyers in Tauranga on 6 October, with awards presented to the region's top people and projects. This was the second awards hosted by the branch, attracting around 220 people from across the local industry and clients.

Getting used to the NZ Guide to Temporary Traffic Management

CCNZ Technical Manager Michelle Farrell explores how the New Zealand Guide to Temporary Traffic Management is bedding in.

Retentions changes come into force today

A new amendment to the Construction Contracts Act comes into force today, providing further protection to contractor retention money.

Introducing our new Executive Councillors: Greg Lumsden

Greg Lumsden has had a varied career as a trainer, contractor, industry supplier and small business owner. He has also served on the CCNZ Manawatu Branch Executive, chairing the branch since 2017, running the CCNZ CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition, and seeing the branch through its transition to become CCNZ Manawatu Whanganui.

Introducing our new Executive Councillors: Kerry Watkins

Kerry Watkins was raised on a Waikato dairy farm and enjoyed the lifestyle but wanted a mix of practical hands-on work and professional life. That led him to civil construction, which he says has been ‘seriously rewarding’.

Tales from The Civil Contractors Conference

Civil Contractors New Zealand’s conference – now known as ‘The Civil Contractors Conference’, was held at venues across Auckland from 30 August to 1 September 2023. Here's our event report, looking back on civil construction's event of the year!

Bitumen sustainability and resilience in focus at The Black Art

Alternative materials, technical specialties and sustainability initiatives were in focus at The Black Art 2023 - a full-day technical event for practitioners of the black arts of bitumen construction, held at the Due Drop Events Centre in Manukau on 30 August.

Top infrastructure projects show their class at national awards

A path through a Significant Ecological Area, a port completed seven months ahead of time, disaster recovery efforts and time-sensitive transport projects were amongst the winners in the 44th Civil Contractors New Zealand Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards. The awards celebrated the best of NZ’s civil infrastructure construction industry.

Exceptional training programmes honoured at Connexis Civil Training Awards

Employers with a relentless dedication to staff development were recognised at the 2023 Connexis Civil Training Awards in Auckland this afternoon. Held at the Due Drop Events Centre during The Civil Contractors Conference, the awards celebrated civil industry employers who demonstrate outstanding dedication to developing staff through training.

Exceptional young leaders honoured at Z People Awards

Gifted young leaders and civil construction workers with outstanding dedication to personal development were recognised at the Z People Awards in Auckland this afternoon. Held at the Due Drop Events Centre in Auckland during The Civil Contractors Conference, the awards celebrated the stars of NZ’s civil infrastructure construction industry.

Resilience and sustainability reign at civil construction conference

The state of New Zealand’s civil construction industry, workforce and sustainability are among the many topics that will be discussed at the Civil Contractors New Zealand’s national conference and expo in Auckland tomorrow and on Friday 1 September.

Confidence in infrastructure resilience going underwater

New Zealand’s infrastructure is not able to cope with increased severe weather events. That’s one of the key findings from the annual Construction Industry Survey, a partnership between Teletrac Navman and Civil Contractors New Zealand.

Civil contractors raise more than $40k for Hawke’s Bay recovery

Civil Contractors New Zealand Manawatū Whanganui Branch has got behind the Hawke’s Bay East Coast recovery, with the organisation raising more than $40,000 for the Bay View Community Charitable Trust to continue to support local business and homeowners with rebuild and recovery, including engaging civil contractor support.

Waikato awards recognise outstanding people and projects

A 2.7km tunnel to bring water to a power station, an upgrade for a local domain, a major ring road, works to enable a new retirement village and the new entrance for Hamilton Zoo featured amongst the year's winning projects at the CCNZ Waikato Branch Hynds Construction Awards on Friday 11 August.

Government transport policy gets back on the rails

New Zealand’s civil contractors welcome the focus on consistency, resilience and maintenance in today's Draft Government Policy Statement on Land Transport 2024/25-2033/34 - but caution there is a long road ahead to resolve historic underfunding and build resilience into the country’s transport network.

Business of the 79th Annual General Meeting of Civil Contractors New Zealand

The 79th Annual General Meeting of Civil Contractors New Zealand will be held as part of the CCNZ 2023 Conference, from 3.00pm to 4.00pm on Friday 1 September 2023. The meeting will be held in the Panasonic Room, Due Drop Events Centre, 770 Great South Road, Wiri, Manukau 2104.

Submission: Lifting the resilience of New Zealand’s critical infrastructure consultation

CCNZ made a submission on the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet's stage one consultation on Lifting the resilience of New Zealand’s critical infrastructure.

Finalists announced for CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards 2023

The finalists for the Civil Contractors New Zealand Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards have been announced, with awards to be presented on the big stage during the Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards Dinner at CCNZ National Conference in Christchurch on 1 September. Tickets are available at the The Civil Contractors Conference website.

Finalists named for CCNZ Z People Awards

Finalists have been announced for the CCNZ Z People Awards, which recognise emerging leaders in the civil construction industry as well as those who have shown outstanding commitment to personal development.

Joint letter to Minister of Transport on policy delays

CCNZ wrote a joint letter to Minister of Transport David Parker alongside Infrastructure NZ about ongoing policy delays in the transport portfolio, calling for the Government to clarify its intentions regarding the Government Policy Statement for Land Transport and the review of road user charges.

Unpacking the buzzword – 'sustainability'

It seems right now, the more the word ‘sustainability’ is used, the less it means. Is there some universal knowledge we can apply to unpack the buzzword? CCNZ Technical Manager Michelle Farrell takes on the challenge.

Pothole repair plans sensible, but underlying funding issues need clarity

The National Party’s proposal to establish a ‘Pothole Repair Fund’ is a useful clarification of priorities and funding to replace pavements degraded by underinvestment, but it does not provide a silver bullet or set funding in place for long-term transport network maintenance.

Destination NZ - A new international construction and infrastructure recruitment campaign

A new construction and infrastructure recruitment storyteller toolkit has launched, and can be used by CCNZ members to support international recruitment.

Notice of 2023 AGM, call for motions and nominations

The CCNZ 2023 Annual General Meeting will be held as part of CCNZ National Conference - The Civil Contractors Conference at the Due Drop Events Centre (Panasonic Room), 770 Great South Road, Wiri, Manukau, Auckland on Friday 1 September 2023 from 3.00pm to 4.00pm. CCNZ is calling for Executive Council nominations and AGM motions from members.

Temporary traffic management changes – keep calm and carry on

By now we all know that the brand-new New Zealand Guide to Temporary Traffic Management (NZGTTM) has been released by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and the intention is for it to replace CoPTTM by around 2025. But we're all now asking: ‘so, what does this mean’? CCNZ Technical Manager Michelle Farrell has the answers.

Construction Industry Survey 2023 - help set the direction for NZ's civil construction industry

The 2023 Construction Industry Survey is open for entries. Take the survey, let us know about the challenges and opportunities you see, and help set the direction for NZ's civil construction industry.

$71b infrastructure investment needs certainty to go with spend

The government’s announcement of an increased infrastructure investment to $71b over five years has potential to deliver results, but Civil Contractors New Zealand says the investment must come with more certainty around the work programme ahead and focus on the work at hand.

CablePrice continues strong support for National Excavator Operator Competition

Civil Contractors New Zealand National Excavator Operator Competition naming rights sponsor CablePrice will continue its longstanding support for the event, extending its support for a further two years. CablePrice has been the competition’s premier sponsor since 2009, supplying powerful Hitachi excavators for the competition.

New guide signals a new era for temporary traffic management

A new era of how road work sites are managed has arrived with the release of the New Zealand Guide to Temporary Traffic Management, which sets out how road work sites should be managed, replacing the Code of Practice for Temporary Traffic Management.

Otago awards recognise region's pinnacle achievements

The 2023 CCNZ Otago Hynds Construction Awards took place on Friday 31 March at the Skyline Queenstown Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar, with the pinnacle achievements of the region's contractors celebrated in an amazing scenic location.

Temporary Traffic Management Steering Group appointees named

The Road Worker Safety Governance Group process to form a new industry steering group for road worker safety has concluded and representatives have been chosen from those that applied through a formal expression of interest process.

King of heavy metal crowned at national excavator competition

Otago’s Troy Calteaux has emerged as ‘top dug’ at the 2023 Civil Contractors NZ CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition, showing the weight of his mettle to defend his national title against a formidable field of 12 regional finalists.

Heavy metal mettle to be tested at National Excavator Operator Competition finals

The elite ‘SAS’ of New Zealand’s excavator operators will be put through their paces in Feilding at the end of this week as they vie for title of New Zealand’s best at the CCNZ CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition. Manfeild Park will host the heavy metal showdown, taking place on 17-18 March during the Central Districts Field Days.

Road Works Industry Steering Committee seeks expressions of interest

The Road Worker Safety Governance Group is seeking expressions of interest from expert practitioners, to join an industry steering group for road worker safety.

Smooth operating secures success at Manawatū-Whanganui excavator skills showdown

Jim Beamsley, of ARC Asbestos Removal and Demolition Ltd, notched up his third regional win at the CCNZ CablePrice Manawatū-Whanganui Excavator Operator Competition on Sunday. Beamsley’s smooth operating allowed him to best 13 other local operators at the National Driver Training Centre on 5 March, where the pressure was heightened by the heat.

Featherston operator takes regional excavator title

Featherston’s Corey Olson of E Carson & Sons claimed his first Civil Contractors New Zealand Wellington Wairarapa CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition Region championship title, finishing victorious over a field of 14 at Brewtown in Upper Hutt on 25 February.

New cyclone visa category provides relief from ‘crisis mode’

A new fast-tracked visa category to help with recovery efforts following Cyclone Gabrielle will enable the country’s civil construction companies to ramp up their efforts in the response and recovery following the massive impact of Cyclone Gabrielle across the North Island.

Responding to the catastrophic flooding events of 2023

A message to members from CCNZ Chief Executive Alan Pollard, following the catastrophic flooding events of 2023 and the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.

NZ’s top infrastructure construction awards open for entries

Entries are open for the annual Civil Contractors New Zealand Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards, which have recognised outstanding projects and maintenance initiatives from New Zealand’s civil construction industry since 1978.

Veteran eyes third shot at national competition after Southland victory

Brendon Ferguson of Fulton Hogan demonstrated his mettle amongst a tough field of competitors to win the Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice Southland Excavator Operator Competition for the second time.

Young talent treads familiar tracks to triumph at Otago competition

Kaleb Hollands of Hollands Excavation took out first place in the CCNZ New Zealand CablePrice Otago Excavator Operator Competition, matching his father Andrew and uncle Carl’s wins of years gone by.

Final call - expressions of interest for Infrastructure Reference Group

CCNZ Chief Executive Alan Pollard is calling for interested members to join an industry reference group to frame up the industry's priorities, identify barriers to achieving goals, act as a sounding board for ideas and initiatives, and provide meaningful input to initiatives such as the Construction Sector Accord.

Recognition, qualifications on the way for NZ road workers

The skilled people responsible for road work sites will have more recognition to look forward to, thanks to a new industry group established to align temporary traffic control training with formal qualifications through the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF).

Steven George named Northland’s champion excavator operator

Steven George was named the winner of this year’s CCNZ CablePrice Northland Regional Excavator Operator Competition, taking out the regional title at the Whangarei A&P Show on 3 December.

Waikato, Bay of Plenty excavator champions primed for nationals

The CCNZ CablePrice Waikato Bay of Plenty Regional Excavator Operator Competition was a highlight of National Fieldays at Mystery Creek once again, with talented operators from across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions battling it out for the regional title, and their opportunity to represent their regions and complete for the national title.

Immigration changes show NZ ‘open for business’ once again

After several years of closed borders, government moves to incorporate skilled civil construction trade roles into the Immigration New Zealand Green List can’t come soon enough, say New Zealand’s infrastructure construction contractors.

CCNZ doubles down on tee-offs for charity

Two charity golf tournaments hosted by Civil Contractors New Zealand have helped to raise tens of thousands of dollars for life saving causes.

Hawke's Bay East Coast awards recognise region's top people, companies and projects

The 28th annual CCNZ Hawke's Bay East Coast Branch Awards were held on Friday 25 November at Toitoi events centre in Hastings. With over 170 members, associates and sponsors attending, it was a great night for all who attended.

Call for expressions of Interest – Infrastructure Reference Group

CCNZ is seeking nominees for an industry reference group to represent the industry to the Construction Sector Accord

Awards presented to Southland's champions of civil construction

CCNZ Southland's champions of civil construction were recognised at the 7th CCNZ Southland Branch Construction Awards on Friday 14 October 2022 at The Ascot Park Hotel in Invercargill.

CCNZ Manawatū and Whanganui Branches to amalgamate

Following extensive consultation, branch members of the CCNZ Manawatū and Whanganui Branches have voted to proceed to merge the two branches. A recommendation to proceed was approved by the Executive Council at its meeting on 29 September 2022.

Industry guidance: Unconfined Compressive Strength for Cement-Bound Aggregates

The National Pavement Technical Group, Civil Engineering Testing Association of New Zealand and CCNZ have jointly developed a test methodology guidance document for use in New Zealand to reduce confusion and enable consistency in compressive testing for cement bound aggregates.

Farewell to a Taranaki 'contracting legend'

CCNZ Taranaki Branch Life Member Graham ‘Harrie’ Harris passed away on 13 October at 80 years of age.

Daniel Pule wins CCNZ CablePrice Canterbury Westland Regional Excavator Operator Competition

Saturday 1 October 2022 saw more than 30 of the regions best multi-skilled excavator operators battle it out for the regional title. It was a thrilling day with lots of supporters cheering on their favourite operator.

Outstanding Individual forges path to first Hynds Construction Supreme Award in Construction Awards history

The CCNZ Auckland Branch Hynds Construction Awards showcase excellence in the civil construction industry and reward the accomplishments of companies and project teams that have achieved regional acclaim.

Government’s Infrastructure Strategy response a positive start

The Government’s response to the national 30-year Infrastructure Strategy released by the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission Te Waihanga is a welcome starting point, but illustrates there is a lot of work to go to resolve the country’s infrastructure challenges.

CCNZ Industry Statement on Quantification and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions

CCNZ's Sustainability Working Group has produced an industry statement on the Quantification and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Practitioners of The Black Art pave the way forward

More than 230 practitioners of the 'black arts' of bitumen and asphalt construction flocked to Vodafone Events Centre in Auckland for a full-day bitumen event, focused on sustainable road pavements and surfacings.

MATES in Construction wins CCNZ Major Associate Award

MATES in Construction was awarded the 2022 CCNZ Major Associate Award for its work supporting the construction industry through suicide awareness and mental health support programmes.

CCNZ elects first female president

Civil Contractors New Zealand has elected the first female president in its 78-year history. Napier business consultant and former Gair Contracting Managing Director Bailey Gair was elected unopposed at the 78th AGM on Thursday 4 August, replacing outgoing president Tony Pike of Downer at the helm of the association.

From bridges to underground rail: civil construction celebrated at national awards

New Zealand’s most mind-blowing infrastructure projects and maintenance initiatives of the past year were honoured on Friday night at the Civil Contractors New Zealand Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards.

Leadership, dedication and civil construction training celebrated in Christchurch

Young leaders, workers with a thirst for knowledge and outstanding employers behind some of Aotearoa’s top civil construction industry training were celebrated in Christchurch this afternoon at the Z Energy People Awards and Connexis Civil Industry Training Awards.

Industry battles resource shortages and escalating costs to meet heavy demand for infrastructure

New Zealand’s civil construction industry is battling skills and worker shortages, cost escalations, and increasingly complex contract terms to deliver on the country’s vital infrastructure works programme.

CCNZ Awards celebrated the best of Waikato's civil industry

Winners of this year's CCNZ Waikato Awards were revealed during a spectacular Gala Dinner held on the 1st of July at the Claudelands Event Centre in Hamilton. A record 270 people attended the function, including Hynds Director Aaron Hynds and Hamilton Mayor, Paula Southgate.

Finalists announced for CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards 2022

The finalists for the CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards have been announced, with the awards to be presented on 5 August at CCNZ-HIANZ National Conference.

Temporary traffic management – what you need to know

Temporary traffic management in New Zealand is in the middle of a significant change – from a proscriptive compliance-based approach to a risk-based approach. This article provides a summary of important information that civil construction businesses should be aware of, as of July 2022.

Notice of 2022 AGM, call for Executive Council nominations

The CCNZ 2021 Annual General Meeting will be held as part of CCNZ-HIANZ Conference in the Rivers Room at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, 188 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch on Thursday 4 August 2022 from 8.30am to 9.30am. Nominations for Executive Council are open, and there is a call for business and AGM motions.

Have your say - CCNZ Teletrac Navman Construction Industry Survey open

Complete the CCNZ Teletrac Navman Construction Industry Survey to have your say on the civil construction industry's needs and be in to win!

Budget 2022: Good start, but more infrastructure investment needed

CCNZ has welcomed investment in trades training programmes, increased funding for rail and rural broadband infrastructure, and support for Construction Sector Accord Transformation Plan initiatives included in Budget 2022. However, it cautions far more will be required to solve the infrastructure challenges New Zealand is facing.

Strategy ‘a new beginning’ for Kiwi infrastructure

New Zealand’s civil contractors have welcomed a new 30-year Infrastructure Strategy as ‘a new beginning’ and look forward to working to address the country’s massive infrastructure deficit with increased support, better planning, and targeted investment from government.

New report sets a path to resolve civil infrastructure workforce challenges

The new Developing a Skilled Civil Construction Workforce report from the Civil Contractors New Zealand Civil Workforce Forum has been published. The report explores how people can successfully enter and build a career in the civil trades.

Bringing young people into civil construction: a contractor's perspective

Matt Bradbury of Troy Wheeler Contracting shares his experience of reaching out to a local school to support young people in joining the civil construction industry.

Temporary traffic management guide an opportunity to focus on what’s important

Waka Kotahi released its draft New Zealand Guide to Temporary Traffic Management (NZGTTM) on 8 March. This document was produced in consultation with the wider industry, including Civil Contractors New Zealand, and provides one part of a proposed framework to how temporary traffic management can be delivered.

CCNZ nominations for 3910 review accepted

CCNZ's two nominations for the standards development committee for the revision of NZS 3910:2013 project have been accepted, with Paul Buetow of Dentons Kensington Swan and Jim Juno of Juno Civil appointed to represent feedback from the civil construction industry.

Farewelling John Dawson, Founding Director of BCA

Founding Director of the Bitumen Contractors Association John Dawson passed away on 11 December 2021, aged 91 years of age.

Who foots the bill if COVID-19 impacts your project?

We may have moved away from major national or regional COVID-19 lockdowns, but that doesn’t mean we are home free when it comes to avoiding the pandemic’s impact on civil construction projects. There's still potential for COVID-19 cases to force mandatory site shutdowns and we still face challenges when key team members are required to isolate.

CCNZ members grant Executive Council decision-making powers on Margan House

CCNZ members resolved to grant the Executive Council decision-making powers on the national office premises, Margan House.

Q&A: The Government’s new Vaccination Assessment Tool and what it means for deciding on COVID-19 vaccination requirements for staff

The Government is passing legislation under urgency this week that will - among other things - enable the creation of a new Government tool for businesses known as the Vaccination Assessment Tool. To support members in understanding the new tool, we have developed this Q&A drawing on what we understand so far and updates provided by Business NZ.

Best of Hawke’s Bay East Coast civil construction celebrated

Black ties, big personalities and community-changing projects were in the spotlight at Friday night’s Civil Contractors New Zealand Hawke’s Bay East Coast Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards.

Infrastructure Skills Centre launches first Manawatū course

The Infrastructure Skills Centre is coming to Manawatū in November to give local people from across the region the skills they need to start a successful career in infrastructure construction - and a job when they finish their training.

CCNZ backs review of standard conditions of contract used in infrastructure

Civil Contractors New Zealand has taken a lead role in launching a project to Review “NZS 3910 Conditions of contract for building and civil engineering construction”, committing $65,000 over two years to fund the civil construction industry’s share of the review costs.

CCNZ submission: Managing our Wetlands discussion paper

CCNZ put forward a submission on the Ministry for the Environment Managing our Wetlands discussion paper, supporting the proposals to change the definition of a 'natural wetland', better enable wetland maintenance and restoration and establish new consenting pathways for quarrying, landfill, cleanfill, managed fill, mining and urban development.

Civil Contractors: Work on NZ’s water networks must continue

New Zealand’s national association for civil contractors has called for physical work on New Zealand’s water networks to continue smoothly and not be undermined by the creation of four new water entities to manage the country’s freshwater, stormwater and wastewater.

Taranaki local digs deep for competition win

Taranaki’s champion excavator operator was crowned at a dramatic regional contest on Sunday, as Shaun Curtis from I&D George Contracting saw off stiff opposition to take first place at the CCNZ CablePrice Taranaki Excavator Operator Competition.

Gareth Butcher crowned top Canterbury Westland excavator operator

It was second time lucky for the winner of the 2021 CCNZ CablePrice Canterbury Westland Excavator Operator Competition. Gareth Butcher – a Christchurch local – took top honour at this year’s regional championships.

National Infrastructure Strategy ‘long overdue’

Civil Contractors New Zealand Chief Executive Peter Silcock welcomed the Draft New Zealand Infrastructure Strategy, saying it provided vital vision and direction for the country’s infrastructure networks, framing challenges and solutions in a way that was ‘long overdue’.

EPIC Photo Competition - People's Choice Awards open

Contractors have sent in hundreds of amazing photos. Vote now for your favourite and be in to win great prizes, including a RYZE Tello drone, a Z Energy gift card and die-cast models from TransDiesel

Q&A: vaccine availability for essential workers, vaccine information requirements for employers

Maintenance and investment key for National Land Transport Programme

New Zealand’s civil contractors have welcomed record central and local Government investment in transport but say it will not be enough to catch up with the effects of years of deferred road maintenance.

Alert Level 4 construction contract advice

A number of members have sought guidance on how to address the present Alert Level 4 lockdown under their contracts. CCNZ has checked with Dentons Kensington Swan and set out some guidelines.

CCNZ awards life membership to Brian Warren

CCNZ awarded life membership to Past President Brian Warren at the CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards on 30 July 2021, recognising an outstanding career of more than 40 years, and an incredible determination for improving the industry.

Nelson and Marlborough’s best in civil construction revealed

A cycle track built in extreme conditions, a land reclamation project with exceptional environmental controls, and a talented young operations manager were among the outstanding civil construction projects celebrated at the Civil Contractors NZ Nelson Marlborough Awards Dinner on Friday.

Immigration changes needed for vital infrastructure projects

The construction sector is urging the Government to ease immigration criteria so struggling companies can recruit overseas workers for key vacancies to complete vital New Zealand infrastructure projects.

Initial Civil Workforce Forum workshop explores entry points to industry

CCNZ held its first Civil Workforce Forum workshop on 28 July at the Basin Reserve. The event was attended by 50 people, who explored the entry points to the civil and infrastructure construction workforce and shared information on upcoming initiatives and changes in infrastructure workforce development.

New appointments bring experience and expertise to Executive Council

Andrew Spittal, Jeremy Dixon and Orla Gallagher have been appointed to the CCNZ Executive Council following the AGM on 29 July, replacing James Craw, Colin Calteaux and Stephen Delaney. Gary Richardson was re-elected.

Survey highlights immigration’s role in construction skills shortage

Ninety per cent of construction firms are having difficulty recruiting in New Zealand, a new survey of CCNZ and other key industry body members has found. The primary reasons identified by respondents are skill shortages, recruitment challenges and immigration policies that don’t meet industry needs.

Massive rebound in civil construction business confidence may be undermined by skills shortage

Teletrac Navman and Civil Contractors New Zealand announce 2021 Construction Industry Survey results on the state of civil construction in New Zealand

National awards celebrate civil construction excellence

The rescue of a Wellington icon, an infrastructure emergency response that moved mountains, and a project with an outstanding safety culture were amongst the winners of the 42nd Civil Contractors New Zealand Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards. The awards were presented in front of a sell-out crowd at The Contractors’ Conference in Wellington.

Young leaders and top training initiatives shine at civil construction awards

Courageous young leaders and top training initiatives have been recognised at the Z Energy People Awards and Connexis Civil Industry Training Awards, held on Friday 30 July in Wellington. Hundreds of people from across the civil construction industry attended the prestigious awards, presented during the The Contractors Conference at Te Papa.

Infrastructure workforce and sustainability in focus at The Contractors Conference

Media Release: Workforce, technology, sustainability and the state of New Zealand’s infrastructure construction industry will be in the spotlight at The Contractors Conference – NZ’s civil construction industry conference in Wellington from 29-30 July.

Submission on Infrastructure for a Better Future

The New Zealand Infrastructure Commission recently called for submissions on its 30-year Infrastructure Strategy for Aotearoa New Zealand. Civil Contractors NZ made a submission on 2 July as part of this consultation process.

Best of Waikato’s civil construction industry revealed

The best civil construction projects in Waikato were celebrated recently at the 2021 CCNZ Waikato Hynds Construction Awards. A record 230 people attended the ceremony on 25 June at The Atrium on the Wintec campus in Hamilton, including Hynds Director Adrian Hynds and Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate.

Northland Awards celebrate region's top civil contractors

The Northland Branch of Civil Contractors New Zealand held its annual Construction Awards at Semenoff Stadium on 25 June, with a record attendance of 250 people at the event. The awards celebrated the last two years of projects due to the interruption caused by COVID-19 leading to the cancellation of the 2020 awards.

“Work experience for a lifetime”: Infrastructure Skills Centre launched

The civil construction and infrastructure industry has teamed up with government, industry bodies and employers to help meet New Zealand’s infrastructural skills challenge.

Waka Kotahi announces move to safer bitumen technology

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency has issued a technical advice note indicating its intention to move from hot cutback bitumen to bitumen emulsion products. Civil Contractors NZ Technical Manager Stacy Goldsworthy said the change was positive and demonstrated Waka Kotahi's leadership to deliver better outcomes for workers handling and using bitume

Welcome changes to the Retention Regime under the Construction Contracts Act 2002?

Read our guest article about the changes proposed in the Construction Contracts (Retention Money) Amendment Bill. Kindly provided by Stuart Robertson (Partner) and James France (Solicitor) in Dentons Kensington Swan’s Construction and Major Projects team.

Contractors celebrated at CCNZ Auckland Excellence Awards

Winners of this year’s CCNZ Auckland Excellence Awards have been announced. Revealed during a spectacular Gala Dinner on Saturday 19 June at the Cordis Hotel in Auckland, recipients were recognised for their regionally-acclaimed projects, highlighting the best of Auckland’s civil infrastructure industry.

Waikato and Bay of Plenty Excavator operators dig deep for regional titles

Travis Rameka and Craig Crowley have been crowned winners of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty CCNZ CablePrice Regional Excavator Operator Competition. They were the best of 29 competitors across 14 companies at the contest, held earlier this month in front of big crowds at the Fieldays in Mystery Creek, near Hamilton.

Water projects clean up at Wellington Wairarapa Awards

The CCNZ Wellington Wairarapa Branch Awards were held at Te Marae in Te Papa Tongarewa - the Museum of New Zealand on Saturday 29 May. The awards were attended by more than 200 people from across the region's civil construction industry, to celebrate success and enjoy the entertainment and presentations.

Broken water systems need an urgent fix

Civil Contractors New Zealand Chief Executive Peter Silcock said bold action was needed to implement detailed solutions mapped out by recent studies under Three Waters Reform Programme to tackle the massive scale of the systemic issues facing its water networks.

2021 CCNZ Otago Hynds Construction Awards

The award winners from the Civil Contractors New Zealand Otago Branch Hynds Construction Awards 2021 were named on Friday 21 May.

Notice of 2021 AGM, call for Executive Council nominations

The CCNZ 2021 Annual General Meeting will be held as part of The Contractors Conference in the Amokura Gallery at the Te Papa, 55 Cable Street, Wellington on Thursday 29 July 2021 from 11 am to 12pm. CCNZ is calling for motions and nominations for four positions on the Executive Council.

Tōtika makes pre-qualification of H&S capabilities easier

Tōtika is now live, streamlining the pre-qualification process for buyers and suppliers in New Zealand's construction and civil infrastructure industries. The new scheme, launched by Construction Health & Safety New Zealand (CHASNZ), provides a uniform and easy-to-use framework for pre-qualification of suppliers’ health and safety capabilities

2021 Construction Industry Survey now open

Now is your chance to help set the civil construction industry’s direction for the next year and have your voice heard in the civil construction industry’s annual survey. The 2021 Construction Industry Survey will run from 12 May to 1 June 2021 for main contractors, subcontractors, and civil construction industry suppliers to complete.

Registrations open for premier civil contracting event

Registrations for New Zealand’s civil contracting event of the year opened this week, and conference hosts Civil Contractors NZ are promising an exciting programme packed full of expert speakers, masterclasses and networking opportunities. More than 600 people are expected at The Contractors Conference 2021 in Wellington on 29-30 July.

Conditions of contract standard needs repair work

A scoping report commissioned by the NZ Construction Industry Council (NZCIC) has recommended a revision of Standards NZ Conditions of contract for building and civil engineering construction (NZS 3910:2013) to ensure it is fit for purpose and widely accepted. CCNZ is a member of NZCIC and will play a key role in the review process.

New data standard an asset for civil infrastructure managers

Asset managers, service providers and other organisations in the land transport sector will soon be speaking the same language thanks to the Asset Management Data Standard (AMDS) project. Civil Contractors NZ is supportive of a common standard and is collaborating with Waka Kotahi to connect them with industry.

What do Privacy Act changes mean for company policy?

Recent changes to privacy legislation have implications for contractors, who often collect and store people’s personal information through a variety of avenues, including on site sign-in registers. We did some digging into what the updated Act means for civil construction businesses.

New housing infrastructure fund requires long-term thinking

New Zealand’s national civil construction industry association has welcomed the Government’s $3.8b Housing Acceleration Fund, but called for long-term thinking so infrastructure constructed through the fund can be well maintained in addition to well constructed.

Champion operator wins second national title

Troy Calteaux of Otago was named the winner of the 2021 Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition at an awards dinner on Saturday night, following two days of intense competition against 11 regional champion excavator operators.

NZ’s top digger drivers prepare for heavy metal showdown in Feilding

Have you ever seen heavy machinery used to crack open a beer, pour a cup of tea or slam dunk a basketball? Many of these crowd-pleasing challenges will be on show in Feilding later this week when New Zealand’s best excavator operators compete for the national title...

Environmental Guide an important tool for civil construction industry

The Civil Contractors New Zealand Environmental Guide is now available for download and pre-order. Designed to clearly outline the environmental requirements behind civil construction work under New Zealand law, the guide is an at-a-glance resource with practical information to help contractors meet their environmental responsibilities.

Industry legend recognised in top award for young leaders

An industry legend’s legacy will be memorialised in the civil construction industry’s peak award for emerging talent, with the 'Dr Dave Memorial Trophy' created to recognise the work of Dr David Hutchison, Chief Engineer for Downer for many years.

Champion Otago excavator operator wins third title

Troy Calteaux of Andrew Haulage 2011 Ltd faced off against some of the Otago region’s top excavator operators to take his third regional title in the CCNZ CablePrice Otago Regional Excavator Operator Competition on 23 January at the Taieri A&P Show in Mosgiel.

Draft submission on creation of the CIWDC

The Waihanga Ara Rau Construction and Infrastructure Workforce Development Council will be created by an Order in Council. Submissions on the draft Order are currently open, and CCNZ has written a draft submission commenting that without major amendments the Order will not create an organisation that is fit for purpose.

CCNZ Life Member Brian Harris passes on

CCNZ Life Member Brian Harris passed away in Auckland on 8 January at 90 years of age. A long-time supporter of CCNZ’s predecessor the Contractors’ Federation, Brian Harris held the role of Auckland Branch Secretary for 33 years from 1964-1997, also attending 30 national conferences in a row.

CCNZ Life Member Valerie Davidson passes on

CCNZ Life Member Valerie Davidson passed away in Invercargill at 84 years of age.

CCNZ supports review of NZS 3910

The construction sector has taken the first formal steps towards a comprehensive review of the standard contract, NZS 3910:2013 Conditions of Contract for Building and Civil Engineering Construction (NZS 3910) which is the underlying model contract for at least 75 per cent of non-residential construction contracts in New Zealand.

Veteran operator wins Nelson Marlborough excavator competition

Veteran excavator operator Leslie Smith ('Smithy') of Nelson’s Edridge Contracting won the Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice Nelson Marlborough Regional Excavator Operator Competition on 21 November and will represent the region at nationals in March.

Crowley Excavators take out the 2020 CCNZ BOP CablePrice Excavator Competition

Congratulations Craig Crowley on being the BOP Regional Champ

2020 CCNZ Southland Branch award winners named

CCNZ congratulates the winners of the CCNZ Southland Branch 5th Annual Construction Awards held on Friday 30 October 2020 at Bill Richardson Museum in Invercargill, which were attended by more than 230 people.

Enter the Auckland Branch CCNZ Excellence Awards

Auckland Branch CCNZ Excellence Awards showcase the best of the best of the civil construction industry in the Auckland Region. The 2020 and 2021 awards have been combined into one event with entries open NOW, closing Friday 14th May 2021. The awards will be presented at a Gala dinner on Saturday 19 June 2021.

Top infrastructure projects up for 2021 awards

Entries are open for the annual Civil Contractors New Zealand Hirepool Construction Excellence Awards, which have been presented for outstanding contributions to New Zealand’s civil construction industry since 1978.

Construction contracts after COVID-19

Contractors should be aware that contracts signed since February 2020 are likely to be interpreted differently than those signed before that time. In particular, clause 10.3.1(f) (of a standard NZS 3910 contract) in terms of unforeseeable events may not be able to be relied on, as it could be argued that further lockdowns are now foreseeable.

Increased road maintenance investment welcome

New Zealand’s civil contractors welcome increased investment in transport funding, announced in today’s Government Policy Statement on Land Transport (GPS) 2021. CCNZ Chief Executive Peter Silcock said the GPS rebalanced priorities so the country’s roads could be kept safer and better maintained, as well as investing in new improvements.

Shovel-ready delays, but stability ahead for civil construction in NZ

Civil Contractors New Zealand and Teletrac Navman announce results of 2020 Construction Industry Survey

Updates: Regional return to COVID-19 Alert Level 2 and 3

New Zealand is moving to COVID-19 Alert from 12pm on 12 August. The Auckland region will move to Alert Level 3. It will remain at Alert Level 3 for at least 3 days. The Auckland region is everything in the Auckland Council boundary — from Wellsford in the north to Pukekohe in the south. The rest of New Zealand is moving to Alert Level 2.

Paul Bisset joins CCNZ Executive Council

Paul Bisset of Whitestone Contracting will bring his experience in civil construction businesses large and small to the CCNZ Executive Council after being elected on 30 July, following a nomination from the CCNZ Otago Branch.

Otago Award winners named for 2020

The award winners from the Civil Contractors New Zealand Otago Branch Hynds Construction Awards 2020 were named on Friday 17 July at a function for the award finalists held at Village Green in Sunnyvale.

Shovels at the ready, but where’s the work?

Construction and infrastructure industry leaders are calling for urgency around the release of the government’s full list of ‘shovel-ready projects’ as increasing numbers of workers face redundancy and business confidence amongst construction and infrastructure companies nose-dives.

Notice of the 76th CCNZ Annual General Meeting

As a result of COVID-19 and the cancellation of CCNZ's 2020 Conference we will be holding the Civil Contractors New Zealand Annual General Meeting as an electronic meeting. Members are invited to register for the AGM.

Water investment must not be drip-fed

The government’s latest announcement around water infrastructure investment provides welcome support for New Zealand’s ailing water networks. But to support COVID-recovery, fix systemic problems and provide employment, work should start quickly rather than being drip-fed.

Project timing critical for infrastructure workforce

A new package of infrastructure investments has the potential to help kick-start the post-COVID rebuild, but projects need to get started soon to ensure the construction industry can retain its skilled workforce.

Shovels ready... but no projects?

CCNZ has been working with industry partners Infrastructure New Zealand and the Association of Consulting and Engineering New Zealand to request urgent action, ensuring funds Government has committed to support construction jobs and economic activity are quickly mobilised.

Notice of 2020 Annual General Meeting, call for motions and nominations

As a result of COVID-19 and the cancellation of our 2020 Conference the Civil Contractors New Zealand Annual General Meeting will be held as an electronic meeting on Thursday 30 July 2020 from 9.00 am to 10.30 am.

First trickle of shovel-ready projects emerges

CCNZ Chief Executive Peter Silcock comments on news of more than 800 ‘shovel-ready’ projects – out of a total 1924 submissions – which are currently under consideration by the Government’s Infrastructure Reference Group.

Infrastructure investment will benefit everyday Kiwis

New Zealand’s national association for civil contractors has welcomed increased investment in infrastructure announced in today’s budget, and the opportunity for the civil construction industry to create jobs and take a lead role in New Zealand economic recovery.

Webinar provides advice on standard contracts

CCNZ ran a webinar with Core Associate Dentons Kensington Swan on the impacts of COVID-19 on construction contracts, in particular standard contracts.

CCNZ webinars explore new COVID-19 protocols

CCNZ hosted two webinars on Monday 20 April, exploring new national protocols for the construction industry to return to work under COVID-19 Alert Level 3. The webinars were presented by CCNZ Technical Manager Stacy Goldsworthy Construction Health and Safety New Zealand Chief Executive Chris Alderson, and Worksafe Engagement Lead Suzanne Watt.

Construction gears up for return to work

The construction industry is tooling up to get back to work as soon as possible, drafting a health and safety framework which will help keep workers, and the public, safe from COVID-19.

Civil Talk #122 - 16 April

Edition #122 of CCNZ Civil Talk focuses on new protocols allowing the industry to return to work under COVID-19 Alert Level 3. It also includes industry contract guidance, CCNZ membership survey results, information for contractors and more.

Rapid construction restart key to economic recovery

Government guidance on handling construction contracts will give many construction companies the confidence to continue to employ their people and take a lead role in the economic recovery following the lockdown, say New Zealand’s civil contractors.

CCNZ Civil Talk #121 - 2 April

Edition #121 of CCNZ Civil Talk focuses on iindustry response to COVID-19 Coronavirus lockdown, including industry briefings, surveys, information for contractors and more. It also features information an EPIC story from Keith Matheson of SouthRoads about his career in civil construction, online civil construction training courses and more.

CCNZ COVID-19 briefing paper

Civil Contractors New Zealand has presented a civil construction industry briefing paper on COVID-19 to Government and the Construction Accord Steering Group.

Key contract advice for civil contractors on COVID-19

CCNZ Core Associate Dentons Kensington Swan has provided key contract advice for civil contractors.

Construction industry advisory on Covid-19

This update is from the Construction Industry Council and Construction Health and Safety New Zealand. It covers the impact of Covid-19 and what a level four lockdown means for businesses in construction and building.

Statement from NZTA on essential State Highway services

A statement from the New Zealand Transport agency on which State Highway services can continue under level four Covid-19 control measures, as of 1:24pm, Tuesday 24 March.

CCNZ Covid-19 information for civil contractors

This post provides CCNZ updates about Covid-19, including advice for contractors and useful links. Last updated: 27 March, 9:38am.

CCNZ Civil Talk #120 - 19 March 2020

Edition #120 of CCNZ Civil Talk focuses on information around COVID-19 Coronavirus, the new CCNZ web platform, stories of success and community, and more.

CCNZ members help City Mission gardens grow

From small seeds grow mighty trees. That’s been the story at Christchurch City Mission where members of Civil Contractors New Zealand’s Christchurch Westland branch have pitched in to kickstart a community gardening programme for people staying at the Mission’s shelters and engaged in its day programmes.

National excavator operator competition cancelled

The 2020 Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition has been cancelled due to concerns about the COVID-19 Coronavirus variant.

Meet this year’s champion excavator operators

This year’s CCNZ CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition will see an incredible level of competition, with two previous national champions returning to compete for the 2020 title.

Downer’s Neil Tau wins Manawatu Regional Excavator Operator Competition

Downer’s Neil Tau emerged victorious in this year’s CCNZ CablePrice Manawatu Regional Excavator Operator Competition.

CablePrice secures naming rights for NZ’s national excavator competition

Heavy machinery supplier CablePrice has secured the naming rights for Civil Contractors New Zealand’s highly competitive national and regional excavator operator competitions.

Action man Ben Jones is Wellington’s new excavator champion

Upper Hutt’s Ben Jones was named the Wellington and Wairarapa region’s champion excavator operator following a battle of earth, steel and wits at the Civil Contractors New Zealand CablePrice Regional Excavator Operator Competition on Saturday 29 February.

Video series shows the road to a new career in 2020

A new video series featuring the young infrastructure workers who build New Zealand’s roading, water and internet networks will be released over the next month to demonstrate the inspiring careers people can find in civil construction and infrastructure.

Contractors keen to get started on NZ Upgrade Programme

New Zealand’s civil contractors welcome today’s coalition government announcement of a range of infrastructure projects funded under the New Zealand Upgrade Programme.

Details needed on $12b infrastructure investment

A Government announcement to invest $12 billion in new infrastructure projects has the potential to fill a major gap in the transport infrastructure work pipeline and start to overcome NZ’s infrastructure deficit – now details are needed for civil contractors to get to work.

Tarmageddon successfully prevented for another year

More than 120 of New Zealand’s foremost bitumen specialists and technical experts flocked to Villa Maria Estate in Auckland with the goal of averting ‘Tarmageddon’- a national crisis of aging roading networks impacted by increasing wear and tear, climate change and increasing amounts of traffic.

Guidelines signal new hope for construction industry

The contracting relationship between government and the construction industry is set to be redefined, with new construction-specific guidelines created to accompany new government procurement rules coming into force tomorrow.

Exclusive private healthcare plan available for CCNZ members

In an exciting new offering exclusive to all Civil Contractors New Zealand members, their staff and immediate families, a special private health insurance plan is now available to all CCNZ member businesses.

CCNZ members save more than $3m with n3

Civil Contractors New Zealand members saved more than $3 million in the last year alone through CCNZ’s partnership with n3’s trade discounts and on-account purchasing power. By using n3, members are continuing to cut business costs year after year, with a 49 per cent increase in savings on the previous year.

Civil construction’s top training initiatives named

Civil construction companies from Christchurch and Wellington were the big winners in the national Civil Contractors New Zealand Connexis Company Training and Development Awards, presented on 2 August to recognise commitment of businesses to ongoing professional development for staff.

Clearer work programme critical for NZ infrastructure

The civil construction industry is eagerly awaiting ‘record spending’ on three waters, public transport and road safety improvements to bring financial certainty and stability so it can work towards overcoming New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit.

Doug the Digger receives national Service Award

Northland’s Doug the Digger (aka Alistair McIntyre) received a national Service Award for his role in helping young people learn the skills to operate excavators and start careers in civil construction. The award was presented at a dinner attended by more than 450 industry leaders and business owners on 2 August at the Civil Contractors New Zealand

Passion for civil construction inspires young leaders

An Otago site supervisor, a Christchurch foreman and a Wellington Environmental Advisor received awards for industry leadership on 2 August at the Z People Awards, held at Rotorua’s Blue Baths during the Civil Contractors New Zealand ‘Navigating the Future’ Conference.

Winners named in peak civil construction awards

A record-breaking pipeline in Auckland, a Napier roading upgrade to make a busy intersection safe, an Auckland wastewater station and a stormwater restoration in Wellington were amongst the winners of the 41st CCNZ Hirepool Construction Excellence awards in Rotorua on 2 August.

Conference to explore future of NZ civil construction

The state of New Zealand’s civil construction industry, workforce and technology will be discussed at a panel discussion featuring senior industry leaders at the Civil Contractors New Zealand’s Navigating the Future conference and expo in Rotorua on Friday 2 August.

Five CCNZ positions up for election

Our CCNZ Executive Council rotation means we have five positions up for election in 2019. The term of office of Colin Calteaux, James Craw and Stephen Delaney expire at the 2019 AGM and they have all advised that they intend to seek re-election. There is also a vacancy created by Tommy Parker’s resignation earlier this year.

Competition finds Waikato and Bay of Plenty’s top excavator operators

Strong final day performances helped Waikato’s Mike Bowe and Bay of Plenty’s Brandon Crowley scoop their respective regional titles at the Waikato and Bay of Plenty Regional Excavator Operator Competition.

CCNZ contributes to local government workshops

Improving procurement processes can make councils a “client of choice” and benefit their staff, the communities they serve, and the contractors they work with. That’s the message CCNZ Chief Executive Peter Silcock gave in a video interview that will be screened at a series of local government workshops being run by the Road Efficiency Group.

New Commission key to healthy infrastructure industry

The draft New Zealand Infrastructure Commission/Te Waihanga Bill is a positive step towards better and more efficient infrastructure planning and investment on a national scale but needs fine-tuning to be successful in its objectives, say New Zealand’s civil contractors.

Better infrastructure planning welcome

The release of a prototype Infrastructure Pipeline to forecast major projects being delivered by Central Government agencies has been welcomed by New Zealand’s civil construction sector as a move towards better infrastructure planning.

Construction Sector Accord a long-term commitment

A New Zealand Construction Sector Accord was announced on Sunday by five ministers, including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, signalling long-term commitment between government and industry to collaborate on key work areas for a healthy construction sector.

Vocational education needs change

The civil construction industry says the Government’s proposed Reform of Vocational Education has potential to fix longstanding issues with vocational training and education, despite needing careful management and more recognition of on-job training.

VIDEO: Highlights from the 25th National Excavator Operator Competition

See the action from the 25th National Excavator Operator Competition, held at Manfeild Park in Feilding from 15-16 March 2019.

Riki Lum wins 25th national excavator competition

Riki Lum was named the winner of the National Excavator Operator Competition at an awards dinner on Saturday night following two days of intense competition against the country’s regional champion excavator operators at Central Districts Field Days in Feilding.

Manawatu digger driver to take on NZ’s best

Palmerston North man Jim Beamsley will don his hard hat and climb into the cab of a 12-tonne digger next week when he represents Manawatu at the National Excavator Operator Competition in Feilding.

Meet our National Excavator Operator Competition finalists

New Zealand’s ten champion regional excavator operators will board their excavators and battle it out at the 25th annual National Excavator Operator Competition, held at Central Districts Field Days in Feilding from 14-16 March 2019.

2019 Construction Industry Survey – speak up for your sector

This annual survey is commissioned by Civil Contractors New Zealand and Teletrac Navman, and gauges the big issues for New Zealand’s civil construction companies. Make your voice heard before 25 May 2019 and automatically go in the draw for one of five $100 Prezzy cards!

Arrow’s downfall reflects high risk of construction

The voluntary administration of Arrow International (NZ) announced today will impact not just on the employees of the company and its clients, but the wider network of contractors and subcontractors who supported its construction projects.

CCNZ issues new traffic control publications

Civil Contractors New Zealand has issued new publications, the Manual Traffic Controllers’ Handbook and the Speed Management Handbook.

Infrastructure Commission welcome

Civil Contractors New Zealand welcomes a Government proposal to create Te Waihanga – The New Zealand Infrastructure Commission as the new Autonomous Crown Entity to deliver long term strategy and coordination of infrastructure planning.

Government yet to fill gap in infrastructure pipeline

Short-term gaps in the infrastructure pipeline are causing long-term headaches for the country’s civil infrastructure contractors, who have criticised a vague forward work programme that sees roading projects down nearly three billion dollars in the next two years.

Government yet to fill gap in infrastructure pipeline

Short-term gaps in the infrastructure pipeline are causing long-term headaches for the country’s civil infrastructure contractors, who have criticised a vague forward work programme that sees roading projects down nearly three billion dollars in the next two years.

Water review needs coherent leadership

Recognising a need for change in New Zealand’s water industry is a small step closer to addressing issues with decaying water infrastructure, but coherent leadership from central government will be needed to make a change, say New Zealand’s contractors.

Water review needs coherent leadership

Recognising a need for change in New Zealand’s water industry is a small step closer to addressing issues with decaying water infrastructure, but coherent leadership from central government will be needed to make a change, say New Zealand’s contractors.

Toomer-Reti takes second Auckland REOC title

Jason Toomer-Reti of ICB Retaining & Construction was named the Auckland region’s best excavator operator last night after an intense three-day competition against more than thirty of Auckland’s top excavator operators.

New and improved Taranaki REOC a hit

The Taranaki CCNZ Branch delivered its first Regional Excavator Operator Competition in seven years on 11 November.

CCNZ farewells Life Member June Margan

Civil Contractors New Zealand farewells Life Member June Margan, who passed away on 25 October at age 94.

Contractors look to technology to overcome workforce woes

New information released from NZ’s civil construction industry shows civil contractors are increasingly looking to adopt new technologies, with 77 per cent looking to technology to help them increase labour productivity.

CCNZ farewells Past President Jim Hardie

Civil Contractors New Zealand farewells past President Jim Hardie, who passed away on 12 September 2018.

Land Transport Programme on the road to change

Civil Contractors New Zealand says the release of the New Zealand Transport Agency’s 2018-21 National Land Transport Programme on 31 August has confirmed what has been known for some time – the Government intends to increase its investment in infrastructure, and is committed to a large-scale shift in priorities.

Civil Contractors welcomes new infrastructure entity

Civil Contractors New Zealand welcomed today’s announcement from Minister for Infrastructure Hon. Shane Jones that a new independent infrastructure entity would be established to improve government oversight into the infrastructure and civil construction industry.

CCNZ President and Executive Council welcomed

Civil Contractors New Zealand welcomed new President Tim Ford on the big stage following his election at the Annual General Meeting.

CCNZ’s top 10 highlights from Smarter Together 2018

Smarter Together 2018 ran from 1-4 August at Claudelands Event Centre in Hamilton. This joint Civil Contractors New Zealand and Association of Consulting Engineers of New Zealand conference had many highlights, but we have put together a top 10 list of CCNZ staff members’ favourite conference moments for you.

Awards for emerging leaders, stars in training

A Christchurch construction manager responsible for two company divisions, an Auckland roading foreman heading multiple teams at 23, and contractors from the Bay of Plenty, Canterbury and the Waikato received leadership and development awards today at the Z People Awards and Connexis Training Development Awards, held at the CCNZ Conference.

Water treatment plant takes contractors’ top award

A major upgrade to Auckland’s main water treatment plant in Mangere took top honours at the Civil Contractors New Zealand’s (CCNZ) national awards in Hamilton last night. Other awards went to projects across the country ranging from the Chatham Islands to the banks of the Waikato River.

Focus on lowest cost undermining major infrastructure projects

The construction industry is under strain to build a record amount of infrastructure on thin margins, but issues in the procurement phase could destabilise the construction industry and set these large-scale projects up to fail.

Forecast shows national infrastructure pipeline needs work

Kiwi civil contractors warn that while a recent construction forecast looks to steady the ship, the current course risks an underwhelming response to major challenges and losing talent to a booming overseas infrastructure markets.

Minister to introduce EPIC infrastructure careers campaign

More gamers, trampers and sportspeople may soon be building and maintaining New Zealand’s vital water, roading and energy networks, thanks to a careers promotion platform designed to inspire career seekers and bring diversity to the infrastructure workforce.

Record attendance at Otago awards

A record 320 guests attended the 69th Civil Contractors New Zealand Otago Branch Annual General Meeting and Dinner in Dunedin on Friday 29 June. The event was held at the Commerce Building in Dunedin, and included the 2018 Hynds Otago Construction Awards.

Civil contractors warn of construction gap in Government transport policy

New Zealand’s civil contractors have welcomed a record level of investment in transport, but expressed concern at a medium-term construction gap in the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport which risks losing Kiwi civil construction capability and capacity to overseas markets.

2017 – The Year of Building Infrastructure Resilience

There are many lessons to be learned from the Kaikoura earthquakes. But the main one is the need for the public and private sectors to work together to build greater resilience into New Zealand’s infrastructure network.