Civil construction stories
Thousands of new workers will be needed to deliver planned infrastructure investment, putting pressure on contractors to widen the talent pool.
Civil firms fear a USD $2 billion lull in work could push skills and equipment overseas before rapid transit projects begin.
Savings are already mounting for Matamata contractor Stephen McPherson, whose new Komatsu iMC machines let his crew trim sites faster and more accurately.
Auckland commuters and freight operators are set to gain from a NZD $30 billion transport spend, though congestion relief is still in doubt.
Civil contractors face tougher bids as procurement shifts towards quality, sustainability and whole-of-life value for ratepayers.
Construction activity remains strong nationwide, with ready-mix concrete output topping 1 million cubic metres in the June quarter.
The win highlights growing recognition for complex infrastructure, with the Auckland project praised as New Zealand’s most difficult yet to deliver.
Dozens of projects from Whangarei to Southland are vying for national recognition at Civil Contractors New Zealand’s awards in Dunedin next week.
A looming shortage of 25,000 workers has prompted calls to widen recruitment, as women still make up less than 4 per cent of trainees.
The push could help fill 16,000 jobs over three years as an ageing civil workforce strains to meet New Zealand's infrastructure spend.
About 1,600 workers could be needed at peak on Auckland's City Rail Link, with hundreds of openings for people new to work or unemployed.
Auckland's underground rail link has moved closer to construction, with expressions of interest sought for tunnels, stations and rail systems.
