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CONSTRUCTIVE 2025:
OPTIMISM, MOMENTUM, AND INNOVATION

Over two incredible days on 11 - 12 September, more than 500 people from across the building and construction sector came together in Auckland for Constructive 2025.

The energy in the room was unmistakable, and proof of the strength, resilience, and ambition of our industry.

• 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 State of the Sector survey revealed a clear sense of cautious optimism, and that same sentiment was echoed from New Zealand’s policymakers. 

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: “Government and Council need to sit down and agree a plan for the next 20 years and stick to it. If they don’t, you guys, the builders, aren’t going to borrow the millions needed to build the housing we need.”

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 for 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 
  Sessions 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

Raelene Castle inspired us with her perspective on leadership and change:

“Sometimes you’re the person that creates the change, but not necessarily the person who gets to see it through.”

Nigel Collin challenged us to rethink how we innovate:

“The ideas you have are completely worthless unless they have a purpose… Be a gap hunter, not an idea hunter.”

Glenn Johnstone closed with a thought-provoking look at how AI can practically transform our work:

“Leading with AI means leading a cultural shift… the strong point is the people.”

Constructive would not be possible without the support of our sponsors.

We especially acknowledge our Platinum Sponsor, Mitre 10 New Zealand, and our Prestige Sponsor, Construction Growth Foundation:

"Congratulations to Master Builders for hosting such a valuable and thought-provoking industry conversation at Constructive last week.

The themes of productivity, innovation, and sustainability resonated strongly, and it was fantastic to connect with so many new and familiar faces at such a well-organised event.

We were proud to be a partner."

Mark Moffitt, Head of Trade, Mitre 10 New Zealand

“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.”

Brian Dillon, Chief Executive, Construction Growth Foundation

Constructive 2025 showed that we are moving out of the downturn with fresh momentum. The mood has shifted: customers are more positive, the Government is serious about cutting red tape, and the sector is ready to embrace innovation.

Thank you again to everyone who joined us for Constructive 2025. Your ideas, energy, and expertise made it a true success.