More than 500 Kiwi construction professionals came together to connect and learn at this year’s Constructive 2025 and left with many reasons for optimism.
Over two days, more than 500 people from across the building and construction sector came together in Auckland for Constructive 2025. The energy at the event was proof of the strength, resilience, and ambition of the industry.
As in previous years, Constructive was where Master Builders launched its State of the Sector survey, which provides a unique snapshot of where our industry stands. This year’s results revealed on 11-12 September were encouraging:
- Cautious optimism is returning: 64% of builders report strong or steady pipelines.
- Homeowners are positive: the majority of builds are completed on or under budget.
- Consenting remains a roadblock: consistency and reform are urgently needed.
- Communication is king: 93% of homeowners said good communication was critical to a successful build.
This year’s survey revealed a clear sense of cautious optimism, and that same sentiment was echoed by New Zealand’s policymakers. The findings framed much of the discussion at Constructive 2025, highlighting the opportunities ahead and reinforcing why forums like this matter.
Hon Chris Bishop (Minister for Housing and Infrastructure) pledged to tackle shortages head-on, accelerating infrastructure delivery, and ensuring consenting is a gateway rather than a roadblock. Hon Chris Penk (Minister for Building and Construction) reinforced that drive, committing to greater productivity and innovation, and promising regulation that supports rather than stifles.
From the Opposition benches, Rt Hon Chris Hipkins and Arena Williams underlined the urgency of backing the workforce and rebuilding momentum. Hipkins delivered the message that Labour would back builders, invest in key infrastructure projects, and deliver warm, dry, and affordable homes - turning the trend around and getting people back into construction jobs.
That call for stability and long-term planning was sharpened by Sir John Key. He said,
If there was one defining theme this year, it was innovation and the role of AI in unlocking productivity. From practical case studies on using AI on site, to PwC’s launch of new AI tools for Master Builder members, to Glenn Johnstone’s closing keynote on what’s coming next, it was clear that technology is no longer just a buzzword - it's the lever that can deliver smarter decisions, greater efficiency, and more resilient businesses.
There were also 15 breakout sessions - more than ever before - specifically tailored to deliver practical insights, and implementable takeaways for residential and commercial builders. These sessions touched on:
- Consenting reform and efficiency - We explored practical ways to cut delays, from using digital consenting tools and adopting risk-based approaches, to pushing for greater consistency across BCAs. See the resources here
- Contracts and pricing - Takeaways focused on protecting margins and relationships, providing realistic pricing up front, having transparent conversations about escalation clauses, and risk allocation
- Safety and talent - Session delivered practical ideas for lifting health and safety outcomes on site, and for building pathways to attract and retain skilled people. See the resources here
- Sustainability and innovation - Sustainability doesn’t need to be expensive. We shared practical tips for making sustainability achievable and affordable on everyday projects. See the resources here
The role of AI in building productivity
Practical demonstrations showed how AI can already reduce admin burdens, improve quality assurance, and assist decision-making. See the resources here
Other highlights from the main stage included Ralene Castle, who inspired us with her perspective on leadership and change. She told the audience, “Sometimes you’re the person that creates the change, but not necessarily the person who gets to see it through.
And Brian Dillon, Chief Executive, Construction Growth Foundation, said, “The conversations at Constructive around productivity, innovation, and sustainability are vital for our sector’s future. At the Construction Growth Foundation, we’re focused on growing the skills and capability of our workforce, so it was inspiring to see such strong commitment to upskilling and collaboration across the industry. We’re proud to partner with Master Builders to support a stronger, more sustainable future for construction.”
For more information see:
The State of the Sector results
Constructive Resources
