Major event! New Zealand’s Building and Construction Minister meets the Chinese community: how will the Government tackle building material shortages and reduce construction costs? A rare opportunity, with limited places!
Do you have questions about the flurry of unexpected action plans and reforms?
New Zealand’s construction industry faces a range of challenges, including building material shortages and rising construction costs. However, the Government has recently announced a series of action plans aimed at addressing these challenges and creating more opportunities for the industry.


New Zealand’s Building and Construction Minister, Hon Chris Penk

Experts have recently warned that New Zealand construction companies are being liquidated at an accelerating rate, with tougher conditions ahead. Professor John Tookey of AUT’s School of Future Environments said the greatest difficulties are being felt by the many small businesses on the brink of collapse. These construction companies often start with little working capital and lack strategic depth in business establishment, operations and finance, quickly exhausting their cash flow.
The Government has also recognised the construction industry’s difficulties. The National Party recently announced that it would advance a series of major housing policy reforms before June this year. The policies attracting the most attention from the property and construction sectors are those addressing building material shortages and reducing construction costs. The Government’s action plan focuses on tackling shortages, including measures to improve the stability and reliability of building material supplies.
The Government also plans to reduce construction costs by removing unnecessary industry rules and controls to promote a more efficient building process.

Building and Construction Minister Hon Chris Penk announced a new plan last week. By opening up the building materials market, the Government hopes to make it easier and cheaper for builders to use overseas building products. These reforms include:

Penk said the coalition Government hopes to pass legislation to implement this change before the end of 2024.

There is no denying that New Zealand’s construction industry currently faces a complex and challenging situation. Construction businesses seeking to survive and grow in adverse conditions must proceed carefully and develop strategies to ensure their profitability and long-term viability.
As a major participant in New Zealand’s construction industry, the New Zealand Chinese Building Industry Association (NZCBIA) has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. As part of its ongoing commitment to addressing these issues, NZCBIA will hold an important event, “Meeting with the Building and Construction Minister”, at 6 pm on 3 May, to explore solutions to building material shortages and high construction costs.

By attending this event, you will gain:


New Zealand’s construction industry is at a critical stage of transformation and development. The Government’s action plans have brought fresh energy to the industry, providing important support and guidance as we tackle challenges and seize opportunities. The organisers warmly invite you to attend and join industry leaders in discussing the future direction of construction. Places are limited, so register now!
Time: 3 May, 5:30pm–9:00pm
Venue: Building 730 - ParkCity, 261 Morrin Road, St Johns, Auckland
Registration link: 2024 NZCBIA Industry - Meeting with the Minister - Auckland - Eventfinda