Labour shortage fight

Skills and labour shortages have been rated the construction sector’s biggest issue, according to a survey of construction industry players.

Spearheaded by Civil Contractors New Zealand (CCNZ), the survey found labour and skills shortages was a major issue for 69 per cent of respondents, and for 84 per cent of those in management roles.

Almost two-thirds of the survey anticipated needing more staff in the coming year, but finding appropriate challenging.

The biggest issue by far was finding skilled workers (86 per cent) but 64 per cent of respondents cited a lack of motivated workers, and a third said people being unable to pass drug tests was an issue.

CCNZ chief executive Peter Silcock said the industry was being held back by capacity but also compliance and sluggish contract turnaround times.

‘‘We want a strong, successful and productive industry, but need change. Focus should be on staff was reducing approval and turnaround times for projects, and improving collaboration between the public and private sectors,’’ he said.

‘‘We can’t do it alone. We need local councils and central government to work with us to complete projects efficiently and to a high standard.’’

Other questions centred on productivity, training, staff, safety and the use of technology.

Despite the challenges, respondents felt positively about industry growth.

-Catherine Harris