Concrete NZ cements industry associations

Six industry bodies representing workers in the concrete industry have come together to represent members with a single voice

Concrete New Zealand (NZ) was officially launched on 28 August at a parliamentary function hosted by then Building and Construction Minister, Dr Nick Smith.

Concrete NZ Chief Executive Rob Gaimster said that the idea had been popular in the industry for a while.

“The idea of a single, consolidated association for the concrete industry emerged several years ago,” said Gaimster. “As an industry, we want to be better placed to promote excellence in all things concrete, in an efficient and effective manner that provides better value for all. I am very pleased that we have been able to realise that vision.”

With the construction industry in full swing, Gaimster said that now was the perfect time to highlight the benefits of concrete and strengthen the industry in New Zealand.

“The recent earthquakes have demonstrated the benefits of appropriately designed and built concrete structures. Concrete is functional, resilient and sustainable. New Zealand’s cement production is worldclass, as are our ready-mixed concrete and pre-cast operators. The concrete industry is capable of meeting the expected rise in future demand,” he said.

Concrete NZ’s immediate focus over the next 12 months includes advocating around regulation matters, developing better standards, communicating the benefits of concrete to builders and the public, along with promoting health and safety and sustainable business practices.

Members encouraged to sign-up

Concrete NZ’s founding partners include the Cement & Concrete Association of New Zealand (CCANZ), New Zealand Concrete Masonry Association (NZCMA), New Zealand Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NZRMCA), Precast New Zealand (PCNZ) and New Zealand Concrete Society (NZCS).

Members of these associations did not automatically become members of Concrete NZ; they have been encouraged to do so, and it is expected that many will, as it was they who drove the consolidation process.

Those that elect to become members of Concrete NZ will retain their membership in their founding association until it is wound up. This is in line with the Incorporated Societies Act 1908.

Then Minister for Building and Construction Hon Dr Nick Smith flanked by Concrete NZ Chief Executive Rob Gaimster and Concrete NZ Chair Glenda Harvey