CGF Monthly News | Feb 2026

Supporting safer, more resilient construction communities

Kia ora Subscriber First Name

The past few weeks have been challenging for many communities across the upper North Island. Parts of Northland, Bay of Plenty and the Gisborne region have been impacted by severe weather, causing disruption, damage and, tragically, loss of life. Our thoughts are with those affected and with the teams supporting communities through the immediate response.

As recovery efforts begin, it’s clear the clean-up and rebuild will take time, particularly in more remote areas. This moment also highlights the importance of good planning, thoughtful design and the considered use of technology to help reduce risk in the future. The construction sector has an important role to play in supporting safer, more resilient communities as recovery moves forward.

NEW THIS MONTH

Safety training resources

CGF has supported the development of five new health and safety training videos, now available for CGF members.

These short, practical videos were commissioned by the Frame & Truss Manufacturers’ Association of New Zealand (FTMA) and produced by Shutterspeed Video as part of the FTMA Safe Operation Procedures Suite. While designed for factory-based frame and truss operations, the content is equally relevant for residential builders and sub-trades using hand-held power tools on site.

Available now:

1. Safe Battery Skills

2. Circular Saw Safety

3. Electric Planer Safety

4. Reciprocating (Sabre) Saw Safety

5. Impact & Drill Driver Safety

Each video runs for around five minutes and is well suited to:

• Onboarding new workers

• Toolbox talks

• Refresher training

• Site inductions

Why this matters:

In 2024, the construction sector recorded more than 31,000 ACC claims and 12 fatalities. Many injuries are preventable with consistent, accessible training. These resources provide a practical way to lift safety standards across the sector.

Members are welcome to view and use the videos within their own organisations. Associations interested in adopting or adapting the content can contact Shutterspeed directly.

Shutterspeed Video: stephen@shutterspeedvideo.com | 027 433 9616

Board update

The Construction Growth Foundation Board is pleased to confirm the following appointments:

1. Chair: Kieren Mallon (reappointed, one-year term)

2. Deputy Chair: Brigitte Knill (appointed three-year term)

3. Independent Director: Grant Florence (reappointed one-year term)

4. New Board Member: Katrina Bach, representing core construction interests (appointed three-year term)

CGF members only - Leadership Forum

A reminder to register for CGF’s first in-person Leadership Forum, taking place on:

• Wednesday 18 February 2026

• 9.00am – 5.00pm

• Rydges Wellington Airport, Wellington

CGF will cover venue, catering, and speakers. Reasonable travel costs will be covered for one attendee per association, with up to two representatives able to attend.

We have a strong line-up of keynote speakers and practical sessions planned, focused on leadership, governance, and sector-wide collaboration.

Scholarships - now open

CGF continues to invest directly in people across the construction sector, supporting learning that builds capability, leadership, and long-term career pathways.

Two scholarship opportunities are available:

1. CGF Impact Scholarships – now open

   Our flagship scholarship supporting research, innovation, and sector-improvement projects with clear industry benefit.

2. CGF General Scholarships – applications open 2 March

   Flexible funding for construction-aligned education or training beyond Level 4 NZQA.

Governance training for CGF members

In partnership with the Institute of Directors, CGF delivers targeted governance training designed specifically for building and construction industry associations.

Governance Essentials for Not-for-Profit Leaders is a one-day intensive programme for directors, trustees, and emerging leaders. It focuses on practical governance frameworks, strategic thinking, and confident leadership.

2026 course dates:

• Wednesday 29 April 2026

• Thursday 24 September 2026

• Location: Wellington

For more information login to the CGF member portal

Project Funding

The Construction Growth Foundation provides project funding to support initiatives that deliver real, sector-wide value across New Zealand’s construction industry. Funding is available for projects that align with one or more of CGF’s four strategic pillars: Building Intelligence, Strengthening Capability, Amplifying Influence, and Enhancing Sustainability.

Funding is focused on pan-sector outcomes, not organisational overheads or core vocational training. Projects must demonstrate benefits beyond a single organisation or sub-sector and are intended to support post-qualification capability development. We particularly welcome discussion on initiatives that respond to sector challenges or opportunities, and with innovative approaches.

If you have a project with strong industry value but are unsure whether it fits the criteria, we encourage you to get in touch for a discussion. You’re welcome to contact Chief Executive Brian Dillon directly via email or on 027 252 7001.