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For all media enquires contact:

Irene Smith
Group Marketing Manager
+64 - 9976 8352
+64 - 9379 3358

Media Release: June 13, 2011
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Building and Design Show Takes Off

buildnz designex kicks off with a bang on 26 June at Auckland’s ASB Showgrounds. The building, design and construction sectors’ premier event will be in full swing for three days as thousands of industry professionals talk structural systems, hardware, tools, flooring, surface finishes, interiors, lighting, fine furnishings, textiles and much more.

“We’re really excited that the show’s looking so good,” says Rob Lavender of organiser XPO Exhibitions. “There are hundreds of exhibitors from the industry’s top companies, and buildnz designex is endorsed by Architectural Designers NZ, Certified Builders Association, NZ Institute of Architects, BRANZ, Designers Institute, Furniture Association and Lifemark as well as Registered Master Builders Federation, which is holding its annual conference in association with the event.”

Architectural Designers NZ (ADNZ) general manager Astrid Andersen says her team is really looking forward to being at buildnz designex for the first time.
“We have a large corner space and the stand reflects a lot about ADNZ, the organisation. Our stand will be set up like a kiwi bach: open, inviting and friendly. Our team be able to answer any questions about ADNZ and the benefits of being part of the organisation, and how your business can benefit by working closely with us. We will also be offering Design Licensing assistance for all architectural designers who want help.

“The stand will be a fun place to visit. Not only are we close to the bar, but the team will offer visitors a cup of tea and an ANZAC biscuit. Everyone’s welcome.”

One of the exhibitors is PSP, importers and suppliers of a wide range of innovative architectural and building products.

“Our range is used by New Zealand's leading architects and designers,” says PSP marketing coordinator Jessica Sit. “We deliver new and unique products into the market that enhance the appearance of almost any interior or exterior setting. Visitors to our stand will get a sneak preview of the new products we will be launching, exclusive to PSP in New Zealand.

“One of these is Sibu, a new range of textured, rollable, self-adhesive, flexible decorative surface coatings. Sibu will allow you to add surface effects that can be cut and fitted on site, used in furniture and point of sale. Techlam is the latest in ceramics sheet that will afford design possibilities in both new and renovated environments that have never been available before. Hi-Gloss has the elegant look of coloured glass, with the addition of décor patterns, at a fraction of the cost for the stylish setting everyone desires.

“We will also be presenting the winners of our 2011 PSP Design Challenge. We have received a huge number of entries from designers and architects incorporating our products in innovative ways. Find out who will win the ultimate trip to New York. This year we have also introduced a student edition to the Design Challenge and no doubt we will discover who the next great designer/architect could be. Come visit us for some inspiration and refreshments.”
Another company looking forward to buildnz designex is Winstone Wallboards, New Zealand's largest manufacturer and supplier of gypsum plasterboard, drywall systems, associated products and services.
“We have manufactured plasterboard systems under the GIB® brand since 1927,” says Mark Jury, Market Residential Manager. “This year visitors will be able to experience a simulated building site environment when visiting the GIB® stand. The aim is to demonstrate how GIB® products and systems contribute to quality interiors that will last, as well as highlight best practice installation to get the job done right first time. The support and service we offer is among the best in the industry and members of technical team will be at hand to answer any questions, from simple queries to highly complex technical specifications.”

Flexus will be showcasing a new ‘bendable’ concrete product.
“The Flexus product has become extremely popular with home owners and architects and the display will allow them to jump around and walk on the flooring system,” says Mason Pirie, Flexus Marketing Manager. “Flexus™ is an innovative new ‘bendable’ concrete from Reid Construction Systems NZ. Flexus™ requires no steel reinforcing which allows concrete products from only 10mm in thickness. Flexus™ is much stronger than concrete and has the ability to bend and flex under huge loads. Large cracking is a thing of the past. The Flexus™ Modular Flooring system has been developed to replace particleboard flooring in timber framed construction. Flooring modules are created to achieve greater thermal, acoustic and water proofing while increasing the speed and quality of construction. You can now have a concrete mid-floor in a timber framed house.”

Peter Smith of CAVIUS says the company’s products include the world’s smallest photoelectric smoke detector that boasts some big features. “As well as the latest technology, it has a piercing 85dB(A) at three metres, a 5-year long-life battery, 30 days low battery alert, pause option and is environmentally friendly. CAVIUS is a Danish-designed product offering all the safety and security you would expect from a smoke detector with the latest in photoelectric technology.
“We spent four years taking an otherwise boring and ugly product and making it very small, unobtrusive and sexy. CAVIUS is, to the best of our knowledge, the smallest smoke detector in the world and the best looking but has all the features of standard smoke detectors and more. This product is a talking point in any home. It’s value for money as well. If you get a standard cheap smoke detector from your local hardware store you are most likely getting a smoke detector that requires the battery to be changed once a year. The cost of these batteries are in the region of $10 to $12 dollars each, so once you have paid $12.90 for the cheapest smoke detector and then $60 for batteries you are financially worse off.

“Also these budget detectors are ionised smoke detectors which contain a small amount of radioactive material. So they’re not very environmentally friendly. Our CAVIUS alarm is only $69.90 with a 5 year battery and photoelectric technology. But best of all it is much sexier and less obtrusive than any smoke detector on the market, and you can forget it for 5 years.”

Visitors wanting bright ideas will be heading to the Lumenate stand at buildnz designex.

“At Lumenate we believe our clients shouldn’t have to compromise on brightness in order to reduce energy consumption so we only distribute lighting products that offer comparable brightness to the equivalent ‘traditional‘ lighting product,” says managing director Matthew Miners. “Furthermore, we only distribute lighting products of the highest quality – incorporating excellent thermal design and the latest LED or induction technology. Our stand will be entirely lit by our LED and induction lighting products so you can see for yourself how effective they are.
“We only supply LED products from manufacturers that are worldwide leaders in the area of thermal design – companies such as ELR and Aeon Lighting Technologies. These manufacturers design their products with effective heat dissipation as a primary focus. This ensures that their products will not only last a very long time but will also maintain high brightness throughout their operating life. For peace of mind, the vast majority of products we distribute carry a minimum two year manufacturer’s warranty.
“We have recently added an exciting new line of Induction lighting products to our product range. Induction lighting excels in high brightness applications such as high bay lighting, office lighting and street lighting where LED lighting is not as cost-effective to implement. And best of all, in addition to being energy-efficient, Induction lighting has an operating life of up to 100,000hrs returning our clients considerable savings on maintenance and lamp replacement costs.”

Kim Williams of Securimax says a must-see for visitors is the Smart-Vent home ventilation system.

“Research shows that 8 out of 10 electricians recommend installing a Smart-Vent home ventilation system. We’re in a strategic partnership with the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand, which promotes a commitment to excellence within the building industry. We offer both positive pressure and true heat recovery ventilation options.

“We have over 25 years’ experience in the ventilation industry and we strive to stay at the forefront of research and development in energy efficient ventilation technology. We take pride in being the clear market leaders in domestic ventilation in New Zealand. All Smart-Vent systems have the capability to be easily upgraded at any time with smart and affordable additional features. The state-of-the-art controller offers advanced touch screen technology with the built-in capability to accept all system upgrades, and there are many more advantages to both systems.”

XPO’s Rob Lavender says people working in the building, architecture and design sectors can register as a visitor. “Just go to buildnz.com and fill in the visitor registration form. It’s easy and free and you can print out your barcode for express entry to buildnz designex. It’s not all hard work and business either. Everyone who visits the Ford stand has the chance to win a $46,000 Ford Ranger XLT ute, thanks to show partners Ford and Radio Hauraki.

“And it’s a great place to meet up with old friends and make new ones. Networking and discussing common problems and finding solutions that work is also a valuable part of attending. However you look at it, buildnz designex is a must attend for anyone in building, design and construction.”

buildnz designex 2011 will be held 26 to 28 June at Auckland's ASB Showgrounds in Greenlane. The event is expected to attract more than 5,000 trade visitors.
ENDS
For more information contact:
Irene Smith – Group Marketing Manager
Phone: 09 976 8352
email:

Media Release: May 3, 2011
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Industry Event Heats up Winter

June’s buildnz designex 2011 is the hottest thing on the winter calendar for the building, design and construction sectors. From 26 to 28 June, Auckland’s ASB Showgrounds will be alive with thousands of industry professionals checking out the products and services for the building, design and construction sectors, including structural systems, hardware, tools, flooring, surface finishes, interiors, lighting, fine furnishings and textiles.

buildnz designex organiser, XPO Exhibitions, is delighted with how the event is shaping up, says Rob Lavender.

“It’s the premier event for the industry and has great support from all the key organisations, as is endorsed by the Certified Builders Association, NZ Institute of Architects, BRANZ, Designers Institute, Furniture Association and Lifemark as well as Registered Master Builders Federation, which is holding its annual conference in association with buildnz designex.”

With more than 150 exhibitors expected, many with products and services never seen before, it’s possible that this year’s event will see record visitor numbers. Those that do invest the time and attend will not be disappointed, especially as there are many of international exhibitors.

The New Zealand German Business Association (NZGBA) is organising a ‘Made in Germany’ pavilion with the topic ‘Leaders in building technology and energy efficiency’. About 10 German co-exhibiting companies will showcase their products and services on more than 110sqm.

“We are very excited to be at buildnz designex for the first time,” says NZGBA CEO Monique Surges. “It is a wonderful opportunity for German companies and subsidiaries to show their products to the New Zealand market. The trade fair, however, is not only for newcomers. Companies already established in New Zealand have the chance to emphasize their connection to Germany.”

Among the German companies interested in doing business in New Zealand are DEOS Australia, PORTAS Global Renovation Systems, and SCALOCAB. Other exhibitors at the ‘Made in Germany’ stand are aquatherm NZ Ltd, BSH Bosch and Siemens Home Appliances Ltd, Butzbach (Glideaway Door Systems), Knauf Plasterboard Australia and New Zealand, Lucht LHZ GmbH & Co. KG, Robert Bosch Ltd, and Technoform.

New Zealand companies, too, will have a lot that’s new and interesting for visitors to explore. Blue Building Solutions, will be showcasing some unique products, many of which have not been available in New Zealand until now, says James Johnston, “Our solutions can eradicate damp and mould from buildings by using free passive airflow while remaining affordable, easily installed for both renovations and new build properties, and require very low maintenance. Our stand will let people get hands on with Streamline Trickle Vents which provide passive ventilation to any building. They’ll also be able to have a look at Roll Rafter Trays, UPVC Ventilated Soffits and Over Fascia Ventilators, all of which provide continuous ventilation throughout the roof cavity or void.

“All of the unique ventilation products that BBS will be showcasing will provide a healthy living or working environment and will enhance the performance of buildings already fitted with mechanical ventilation systems. Another product we’ll be showing is UPVC Cladding & Fascias which has profiles in traditional styles, with complementary joints, trims and fixings. It’s an ideal and cost-effective substitute for timber or other traditional cladding: it will not discolour, retains its appearance, is virtually maintenance-free and is weather resistant. Lastly, BBS will be showcasing our UPVC Rain Water System which is designed with a unique clip system that reduces labour time and cost by up to 25%. It eradicates the use of pop rivets or adhesives that are currently used on products in New Zealand.”

Gamma Bracing Technologies has a New Zealand-developed solution that will provide a braced home from day one, reduces the risk of wall and ceiling lining cracking, and provides a rigid structural envelope with reduced stress points. It also produces a safer working environment, reduces site waste and contract administration costs, says Stephen Tully. “Temporary bracing is structurally very important. Reports from the Industry indicate increasing incidences of post-build problems which are attributable to structural framing movements due to inadequate temporary bracing. The Gamma bracing system is a light-weight, steel, structural truss bracing frame which fits inside timber frames between the top and bottom plates and adjacent studs. Gamma bracing frames can be fitted into the timber pre-nailed frames before erection or post-erection. There’s a significant reduction in temporary bracing, and faster lining, stopping and finishing is achieved due to an uninterrupted installation process. There’s no post line inspection and no special fixing requirements for plasterboard linings, and no brace boards or plywood bracing is required.”

David Noyer’s Quantum Eco Hot Water says the company has a new dual system for under-floor central heating and domestic hot water that can produce 600C water in every location of New Zealand at any time of the year energy efficiently. “In the heating season (heating plus hot water required), the water in the under-floor heating system is heated via the main heat pump (air to water system) and the water is maintained at 45oC exiting and 40oC inlet to the main heat pump. The main heat pump operates down as low as -25oC air temperature without the need for any electrical boosting. The domestic hot water is heated via a second heat exchanger (water to water system) which uses the energy from the returning under-floor hot water and uses that energy to heat the hot water to 600C in the cylinder.

“In the non-heating season (hot water required only), when the domestic water needs heating, the circulation pump for under-floor heating is activated, and if the return water in the under-floor heating system is below 180C, the main heat pump will be activated to heat the water to 250C and the energy is then used to heat the hot water to 600C in the cylinder. Furthermore, in summer months, our system can generate cold water so the home owner can have free cooling.”

While new and high-tech will feature strongly at buildnz designex, the natural tried and true is not left out. The American Hardwood Export Council is aiming to educate visitors to their stand regarding the sustainable credentials of American hardwood. American Hardwood Export Council’s (AHEC) Roderick Wiles says the preliminary findings of a new carbon emissions report gives New Zealand specifiers the green light of environmental approval on specifying American hardwoods without concern for carbon footprint. “AHEC would also like to let New Zealand specifiers know about the design merits of American hardwoods as alternatives to the familiar look, grains and textures found in New Zealand timber. Examples of local projects using American hardwood will feature on the stand, including use of American white oak at Craggy Range Vineyard in Hawke’s Bay.”

The Lifemark will also be at buildnz designex and General Manager Andrew Olsen says that visitors will be able to see the full range of design features behind New Zealand’s first quality assurance system for adaptable and accessible housing. “The Lifemark, a Government-supported independent seal of approval, ensures a home will cater for people’s changing needs over a lifetime, eliminating the need for costly future renovations. At a time when New Zealand’s population is ageing, mobility issues increasing and the cost of retrofitting homes escalating, the Lifemark is a tool for the building sector to lead the transition to building homes that cater for our future.

“A home awarded the Lifemark is designed around a number of core design principles – adaptability, accessibility, inclusivity and lifetime value. These translate into 33 design features covering key areas such as the entrance, kitchen, living area, bedroom, bathroom and multi-storey, all aimed at making the house accessible for everyone, easier to live in and easy to adapt as residents’ needs change over time. Ultimately, the construction approach is one of flexibility to change the home over time, according to the inhabitants’ needs.

“The Lifemark comes at almost no extra cost when incorporated into the design from the outset, adding as little as 0-1.5 per cent to the total build cost. Individuals and group house builders now recognise the need to ensure a home is designed to last a lifetime. Those builders that learn about the Lifemark and how it can help will be seen as leading their field.”

XPO’s Rob Lavender says the 2011 event will be even better than the highly successful 2009 one. “The industry is right behind buildnz designex, and suppliers are turning out in force and offering some great deals on top products and services. If you’re in the trade I’d encourage you to register as a visitor. Just go to buildnz.com and fill in the visitor registration form. It’s easy and free and you can print out your barcode for express entry to buildnz designex.”

It’s not all hard work and business though according to Rob. “People who visit the Ford stand have the chance to win a $46,000 Ford Ranger XLT ute, thanks to show partners Ford and Radio Hauraki. The event’s also a great opportunity to network and discuss common problems and find solutions that work. However you look at it, buildnz designex is a must attend for anyone in building, design and construction.”

Media Release: March 15, 2011
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Build and Design Event Showcases World Best

buildnz designex 2011 will be a huge showcase of the very best and latest on offer says XPO Exhibition’s Rob Lavender.

“Held every second year, this is the ultimate event for anyone and everyone involved with building, design and interiors. buildnz designex 2011 will feature the best and brightest products and services for the building, design and construction sectors, including structural systems, hardware, tools, flooring, surface finishes, interiors, lighting, fine furnishings and textiles. This is clearly the key event for the industry, as evidenced by the Registered Master Builders Federation annual conference being co-located with us this year.”

As in 2009 and earlier buildnz designex events, there are sector professional development opportunities and seminar presentations available to visitors. “These are very important and are supported by the main sector associations. In addition to Master Builders, buildnz designex is endorsed by the Certified Builders Association, NZ Institute of Architects, BRANZ, Designers Institute, Furniture Association and Lifemark.”

Master Builders CEO Warwick Quinn says, “We are thrilled to be bringing these two industry leading events together. Having been a supporter of buildnz in the past we’re well aware of the benefits to those involved in the industry who attend. We will be actively encouraging all RMBF members to be there.”

XPO’s Rob Lavender says, “Despite the tough times for some parts of the sector, industry suppliers are showing their commitment to this key part of New Zealand’s economy and are turning out in force. There are very few places left and businesses thinking of exhibiting need to get in now. What’s exciting too is the myriad of leading brands exhibiting at buildnz who have never been part of the show. Some have taken major sponsorship roles with the Master Builders conference, but are also taking advantage of prime exhibition space at the event.”

Those in the trade are encouraged to register as visitors. “Just go to buildnz.com and fill in the visitor registration form. It’s easy and free and you can print out your barcode for express entry to buildnz designex. People who visit the Ford stand have the chance to win a $46,000 Ford Ranger XLT ute, thanks to show partners Ford and Radio Hauraki. The chance to win a new Ford ute is one more great reason for visitors to attend the event,” says XPO’s Rob Lavender. “We are expecting a great deal of interest from the trade, all wanting to go in the draw!”

Sustainability and health are strong themes at buildnz designex 2011. Lifemark™ is a new government-backed initiative in the building and design industry to improve the quality of design of New Zealand’s housing stock. The Lifemark is awarded to homes which meet 33 design features including a level entry, widened doors and passageways, all aimed at making the house accessible for everyone and easy to adapt as residents’ needs change over time.

General Manager Andrew Olsen says ACC and the Ministry of Health spend more than $33 million a year to adapt existing houses for aging and infirm people. “That’s projected to rise to hundreds of millions per annum as New Zealand’s population ages. In addition over 250,000 people were injured in their own homes last year, with the social and ongoing costs in the billions. Lifemark™ is a sponsor of buildnz designex as well as having a stand, and we’ll be running seminars daily about the Lifemark™ and commercial and competitive advantage it offers those building companies and designers that recognise the value of the wealthy, aging demographic.”

Also among the more than 150 exhibitors is Blue Building Solutions. James Johnston says the company will be showcasing products that deliver healthy homes, sustainability, affordability and low maintenance and labour. “Visitors will be able to get hands on with our unique healthy home ventilation system, and will discover how we have created a breathable cavity around the entire building, whilst maintaining weather tightness. Condensation and mould can be eradicated from our homes, schools and other buildings making them much healthier. We’ll also have imported UPVC building products, some of which are not currently available in New Zealand, show videos that display the ease of building with our products and the ease of maintaining them, and will explain how using BBS products is affordable for the average New Zealand home owner, government department or commercial property owner.”

NALCO too is featuring innovative new product – some being launched at the show says Marketing Manager Mark Gilbert. “We’re a multi award-winning aluminium business that is driven to provide great new product that meets market and environmental demands. Many people will know our Nulook and Bradnams brands and visitors to the NALCO stand will get a first look at a new environmentally friendly residential joinery suite, and be able to check-out the release of the SovereignSeries™. We’ll also be showing the latest WeatherTight™ window joinery manufacturing techniques, and presenting new architectural resources including the latest in aluminium and its uses, from billet to bi-fold.

“We’re particularly excited about the new environmentally friendly residential joinery suite. It’s a first designed for standard residential homes and features patented jointing connections. It will be the first to be affordable to all residential segments of the market and is designed to reduce household heating and cooling costs, and improve home comfort and reduce condensation to a minimum. We will have technical experts on site to discuss the new break-through product line as well as all aspects of extrusion, rolled product, alloy properties, capabilities and supply, including die and system designs.”

Those wanting wood instead of metal will also find something to stimulate their thinking at buildnz designex.

American Hardwood Export Council’s (AHEC) Roderick Wiles says the wood could very well be the most environmentally friendly building material on the planet. “We believe American hardwood has an environmental profile that is hard to beat. In fact we’re so confident of this claim that the industry is subjecting its production and distribution chain to independent environmental assessment. It also wants its major buyers around the world to impose tough measures requiring the removal of environmentally risky materials from supply chains.

“The stats speak for themselves. Between 1953 and 2007 the volume of hardwood standing in U.S. forests more than doubled from 5 billion cubic metres to 11.4 billion. Hardwoods represent 43% of the nation’s forest growing stock. The U.S. contributes nearly one fifth of the world’s production of hardwood saw and veneer logs. Long term management of U.S. hardwood forests for sustainable timber production makes a significant contribution to carbon storage. Come visit the stand and talk to us. We’ll be showcasing the range of U.S. hardwood species and their end-use applications and distributing copies of our technical publications.”

High-tech also features strongly at buildnz designex 2011. HPM Legrand, a global electrical manufacturer with over 150,000 product lines and 33,000 employees, will be showcasing the latest in its switchgear and automation for both residential and commercial applications.

“The designs incorporate not only the latest technology for home automation, including lighting control and sound diffusion, but also a never before seen collection of finishes in switchgear to both tempt and impress designers and end users alike,” says National Sales Manager – Trade, Scott Boyd.

“We will be showcasing five different ranges of switchgear, home automation and lighting management, just to mention a tiny fraction of the HPM Legrand range. With an emphasis on quality and good value, the HPM Legrand stand will be well worth a stop.”

Technology and sustainability often go hand-in-hand these days and there will be a great deal on show at buildnz designex that will prove it. David Noyer of Quantum Eco Hot Water says, as Australia’s leading manufacturer of advanced renewable solar energy hot water, pool and building heating products, they’re looking forward to showing what can be done for buildings of any size. “We’re a leader in the field. With over 30 years of on-going product development and using a patented heat pump design, a Quantum heat pump water heater will significantly reduce energy costs compared with traditional methods. Heating hot water accounts for up to 30%-50% of a home’s energy bill, and businesses can spend a significant amount on water heating. Our products have delivered savings up to 75% in both home and business. As well as costing less, lower energy use lessens the impact on the environment through reduced electricity generation.”

Staying with the high-tech, Fodera will show what’s possible with quality architectural custom cladding and lining systems. “We have years of experience in the industrial and marine design and construction industries,” says Kieren Mallon. “We have developed a total system from design through to the final thermoforming all under one roof. This allows us to be very adaptable in meeting our clients’ needs. There are a huge range of textures and finishes available, and we can make your design come to life. We’ll be making the possibilities come to life on our stand.”

While building and construction tools might seem low-tech in comparison, the engineering and technology that goes into something the trade relies on all day every day is impressive. Terri Dey of Paslode says that its range of tools and fasteners meets the toughest demands of the industry. “People use the phrase ‘tools of the trade’ a lot and it has become a bit glib. In our case though, we live by it. We’ll have top-quality products, including the latest models from a range of manufacturers for visitors to check out. Anyone looking for framing, finishing, stapling, coil nailing or wall frame nailing tools and machinery should talk to us. We’ll be offering some attractive show-only deals as well.”

Hilti Corporation, a global leader in developing, manufacturing, and supplying value-added products and solutions for the construction industry will be at buildnz this year for the first time, says the company’s Falco Krutsch. “We’ll be showing Hilti's market leading breakers, including a world first: the TE 3000-AVR, an electrical breaker that matches air breakers in performance. Visitors to our stand will find demos and hands-on trials of a range of Hilti's latest breakthrough innovations, such as our brand new range of gas concrete cutters, and the latest cordless Li-Ion tool range.

Media Release: June 29, 2010
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RMBF aligns conference with leading NZ Building and Interiors Industries Trade Event

Two of the biggest brands in New Zealand building, the biennial BuildNZ Trade Exhibition and the Registered Master Builders Federation (RMBF) have joined forces to create the ultimate event for all those associated with the building, design and interiors industries in New Zealand.

The event now sees the Registered Master Builders Federation, whose membership is collectively responsible for two thirds of total value of all building work in New Zealand, bring its annual conference and educational activities alongside BuildNZ, creating a complete one-stop-shop for products, services, education and professional development.

The conference will be co-located at BuildNZ, alongside the designex exhibition at the ASB Showgrounds, Auckland June 26 - 28, 2011 - creating a combined audience expected to exceed 7,000 unique visitors, and what is expected to be more than 250 leading trade exhibitors. Conference seminars will be held onsite at BuildNZ with an extensive line-up of forums open to all exhibitors and trade visitors.

"Having the knowledge and professionalism of RMBF together with BuildNZ's proven trade exhibition format creates a must-see event happening at the ideal time for the industry," says Brent Spillane, Director of XPO Exhibitions; organisers of the event.
"Tony Alexander, Chief Economist for the BNZ, has recently referred to research suggesting New Zealand needs around 23,000 new houses built each year to keep up with expected population growth," says Spillane*.

"New housing consents are falling well short of that number at present, however it remains important for the building industry to prepare for growth sometime in the future. The (combined) BuildNZ seminars and exhibitions will help with that preparation," he said.

Spillane adds that this announcement coincides with a greater emphasis on industry professional standards for ongoing training and education. “It absolutely makes sense to combine the professional knowledge component (of the RMBF seminars) with the extensive industry products and services on offer at our BuildNZ event,” he said.
“We are also working with other leading building and interiors authorities and associations to bolster the education and key speaker platform even further.”
Warwick Quinn, CEO of the Registered Master Builders Federation is extremely enthusiastic about the partnership. “RMBF is thrilled to be bringing these industry leading events together. Having been a supporter of BuildNZ in the past we’re well aware of the benefits to those involved in the industry who attend. We will be actively encouraging all RMBF members to be there in 2011,” he said.

A schedule of seminars will be created closer to the date, but Quinn notes that the timing of the event coinciding with the introduction of builder licensing and new weather tightness legislation add to the importance that all builders attend. “It is also very likely that attendance will also qualify for professional development points that professional builders will require to be licensed in future,” he said.

BuildNZ also includes designex, which focuses on interior design and textiles, so trade visitors get to see end-to-end (product and service) solutions and trends for commercial and residential buildings. “This is a complete industry event,” said Spillane.
BuildNZ runs from 26-28 June 2011 at the ASB Showgrounds, Auckland, with the RMBF Conference running from 25-27 June, 2011.
The event is FREE to attend for relevant industry professionals.
Please visit the website: www.buildnz.com

(ends)

*source: NZ Herald June 8, 2010, page 7, “Property Report” Tony Alexander, Chief Economist, BNZ

For more information, contact:
Paul Blomfield, PR Consultant; (021) 970 871, or paul@paulblomfield.com
Brent Spillane, Director, XPO Exhibitions Limited: (021) 906 111, or brent@xpo.co.nz
Tracey Bree, Manager Membership and Marketing, Registered Master Builders Federation: (04) 385 5638, or tracey.bree@masterbuilder.org.nz

About The Registered Master Builders Federation (RMBF)
RMBF represents New Zealand's premier building and construction companies, who work to deliver the highest quality houses and buildings. Established in 1892 the Registered Master Builder brand is a recognised hallmark of quality working to ensure high standards are maintained with builders and tradesmen.

Membership criteria is very strict and once accepted the member companies and/or individuals proudly use the RMBF mark to validate the quality homes and buildings they build. RMBF member companies employ more than 15,000 staff and subcontractors, and complete two thirds of all construction work (by dollar value) in New Zealand. www.masterbuilder.org.nz

About BuildNZ
BuildNZ is a leading trade fair for the Building & Construction Industry with a solid reputation for bringing building professionals and construction industry innovators together to share ideas, showcase the latest products, and develop business relationships.

The event is designed to inform trade professionals about business solutions, information and new innovations in the building industry.

In 2009 BuildNZ exhibited alongside designex at the ASB Showgrounds in Auckland and will again feature in 2011.
www.buildnz.com

About designex
designex is the industry leading trade exhibition event for interior design and architecture industries. Creativity is the lifeblood of design. designex brings together professionals from a wide variety of trades to share knowledge, encourage creativity, to feed and nurture the creative process with inspirational sights, experiences, and ideas. designex celebrates and showcases design and innovation on many levels to all disciplines in a format that inspires and excites.

About XPO Exhibitions
XPO Exhibitions (XPO) are owners and organisers of the largest trade exhibitions in New Zealand having purchased the business from dmg World Media (NZ) in February 2010. XPO’s trade exhibition portfolio includes the NZ Gift & Homewares Fairs which occur three times annually, EMEX (Engineering, Machinery and Electronics), Foodtech Packtech (Food Technology and Packaging Technology), Printech (Print and Digital Technology), as well as BuildNZ Designex. Collectively these exhibitions attract more than 35,000 New Zealand and international trade visitors. Trade exhibitions remain an important sales platform for the many hundreds of successful New Zealand businesses who exhibit at XPO events.