We have passed a number of significant milestones here in New Zealand – and most of them positive too.
Alongside our new government getting past its first 100 days and the first budget, the construction sector continues to power along and we are seeing a ‘shifting of the dial’ by the government towards public transport and integrated transport solutions. There has also been a lift in interest in the use of NEC contracts.
But firstly we congratulate one of ‘home grown’ projects – Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom in Foxton, New Zealand – for winning the 2018 NEC project of the year award at the annual seminar in London. It is a well-deserved accolade for a very interesting redevelopment project, with diverse stakeholders and great social outcomes (see Issue 80).
Engagement in NEC4
On a more day-to-day view we are seeing engagement in NEC4. For example, New Plymouth’s local authority is taking a more strategic approach to adopting NEC and – very pleasingly – an uptake and commitment from its supply chain. There is also interest in the development around the NEC4 Alliance Contract.
As work becomes more complex in New Zealand, clients are becoming shared responsibility groupings and funding sources are becoming broader. For these projects people are beginning to understand the value of NEC contracts with their rigour and need for collaboration and integration.
Looking forward there is interest in securing a community of NEC practice in New Zealand and also outline interest from Australia again. So all in all, a positive picture.