Construction sector downturn has just about bottomed out, builders say

More young tradies like Levin plumber Liam Dewar are needed to avoid a shortage, sector warns. (Image: Horowhenua Chronicle)

Maria Slade

Wed, 16 Jul 2025

The construction sector downturn may have just about hit its lowest ebb, the latest annual EBOSS survey of builders indicates.The poll of 431 New Zealand builders shows their average workload has fallen to 64% capacity, down from 67% in 2024.But the rate of decline in demand has slowed, with net sentiment of -33, an improvement on last year’s score of -55, EBOSS managing director Matthew Duder said.“While the current situation is challenging, builders do seem to be predicting improvements in the future. It may be that we are at, or...

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