Strong PlaceMakers presence at NZCB conference

Sponsorships and prizes provide greater support for attendees

More than 700 builders came together at the NZ Certified Builders (NZCB) annual conference in May to celebrate the association’s 20th anniversary and canvass opinion on key issues at a time when the sector remains under pressure from growing demand.

The conference programme included a wide range of technical and business focused sessions designed to support NZCB member builders in navigating the ever-increasing complexities of the industry.

Educational activity

PlaceMakers sponsored a stand with Accent Tools to demonstrate its range of Nilfisk dust extraction vacuum cleaners, which helps builders comply with onsite health and safety regulations.

The stand attracted a large crowd thanks to its innovative golfing activity! Visitors were invited to have a go at getting a golf ball into a hole using the ‘push’ function on the vacuum cleaner to guide the ball past obstacles to its destination. The person with the quickest time (3.90 seconds) won a $250 PlaceMakers gift card and everyone who participated could enter into the main prize draw – two spots on a trip to Port Douglas.

Expanding apprentice support

For the first time, PlaceMakers also sponsored the NZCB/ITAB Apprentice Challenge, which is designed to recognise emerging building talent from across New Zealand. Now in its seventh year, entries have tripled since the inaugural event with carpentry apprentices from 19 regions competing for the title. This year, PlaceMakers provided the winner’s prize pack, valued at $5,000, as well as smaller prize packs for the 19 regional finalists.

Doug Manu, ex-branch operator from PlaceMakers Whakatane, was thrilled to present the first prize to PlaceMakers Apprentice Crew member Matt Hatchard.

A third-year apprentice with FoxBuild in Northland, Matt’s drive to succeed has been apparent from the beginning. He said he became a carpentry apprentice in order “to better myself, and become trade-qualified at a high standard”. At 36 years old, Matt enjoys “learning and applying new skills and constantly pushing myself to discover better ways to achieve the results I want.”

This drive was evident throughout the competition, where finalists are put through their paces. Each apprentice must submit a CV, cover letter and work portfolio showcasing their building experience to date before being interviewed by the judging panel of industry experts. Finalists have to give a professional presentation, which includes public speaking to 500 conference delegates, to be named the winner.