House of the year

Judges have started their journey seeking New Zealand’s top quality builds in this year’s Registered Master Builders 2017 House of the Year competition.

This year’s competition has some exciting new additions, with judges assessing builds within three new categories that reflect the changing building and construction sector – two for Volume and Group House builders, and one for multi units, such as apartments.

More than 370 homes will be assessed as the judges travel around New Zealand, with regional award-winners announced at 10 regional events during July and August.

Registered Master Builders Association chief executive David Kelly says this year’s competition has evolved to reflect the changing market and the types of homes.

‘‘Demand for building in this country is calling for new ways of operating and new types of building. Multi-unit dwellings are expected to account for 40 per cent of residential builds by the end of 2021,‘‘ he says.

‘‘House of the Year showcases what is possible by introducing new trends, materials and approaches.

‘‘The focus on sustainable building over the past few years is a key example.’’

Kelly says the competition plays a leading role in ensuring a better built New Zealand.