Response to Government announcement on Building Product Specifications

27 July 2025

Master Builders welcomes the Government’s announcement to expand access to overseas building product specifications through a new streamlined approval process.

Master Builders CEO, Ankit Sharma, said this is a timely and practical reform that will play a part in reducing the cost of building and increase product availability across the sector.

“Builders across New Zealand have faced increasing cost pressures, and one of the biggest challenges has been delays or shortages in key building materials. By allowing overseas products that meet standards to be used more readily, we can improve supply chain resilience, reduce delays, and ultimately deliver more homes, faster and more affordably,” Sharma said.

The initiative reflects feedback from Master Builders’ members, who have consistently identified access to building products as a constraint on housing delivery.

“The building sector has been calling for a more responsive system. Today’s announcement is a big step forward, and we support the Government’s commitment to unlocking more affordable housing through better regulation,” Sharma said.

He added that successful implementation will require strong collaboration between Government, councils, and industry.

“Allowing more approved options into the market gives builders more flexibility, reduces reliance on single suppliers, and ultimately helps drive better outcomes for homeowners. Master Builders looks forward to contributing to the successful rollout and ensuring this change benefits the entire building and construction sector,” Sharma said.