Surviving the Slowdown: Straightforward Advice for NZ Builders in 2025  

Surviving the Slowdown: Straightforward Advice for NZ Builders in 2025  

The construction market’s taken a turn. After the chaos of the boom, things have quietened right down — fewer enquiries, tighter cashflow, and more competition for every job. If you’re a small-to-medium builder, you’re not imagining it — this is a tricky patch.

But it's not the first time the industry has been through this. And it won’t be the last. Here are some practical ways to stay steady and keep moving forward.

1. You’ve Got to Go After the Work Now

Work’s not just landing in the inbox like it used to — builders need to be more visible.

  • Google Business Profile: Make sure yours is filled out properly. Good photos, updated contact info, recent jobs, reviews – all of it matters.

  • A Basic Website: You don’t need flash. Just clear info on what you do, where you work, and how to get in touch.

  • Be Present on Socials: Share job progress, before-and-afters, or even just updates. Doesn’t have to be fancy – just consistent.

2. Renovations Are Holding Up Better Than New Builds

A lot of people are holding off big projects, but they’re still keen to make improvements.

  • Kitchens and bathrooms are always in demand.

  • Energy efficiency upgrades – insulation, double glazing, better heating – are becoming a priority.

  • Smaller extensions or layout tweaks for WFH setups or growing families are still getting greenlit.

3. Think About Where Else You Could Add Value

Now’s a good time to stretch into other types of work.

  • Eco-friendly builds – there's interest, especially with rising energy costs.

  • Accessibility mods – ramps, bathrooms, handrails. Aging population = steady demand.

  • Light commercial jobs – fit-outs, maintenance, and repairs.

  • Small dwellings – think granny flats or cabins, especially if councils ease up on red tape.

4. Don’t Undersell Yourself

You’re probably seeing tighter quotes coming in. Don’t race to the bottom.

  • Quote properly. Know your numbers and include a margin that keeps the lights on.

  • Proposals should be tidy, clear, and highlight what you do well – good comms, reliable timelines, proper workmanship.

5. Stay in Touch With Every Client

Even if they’re not ready now, they might be soon.

  • Keep them updated during builds.

  • Be upfront when issues pop up.

  • After the job, ask for a review or a referral – a simple “if you know anyone looking, feel free to pass on my details” goes a long way.

6. Put the Time to Good Use

If things are slower, it’s a chance to work on the business.

  • Knock off your LBP learning requirements.

  • Get familiar with quoting tools, project management software, or marketing basics.

  • Talk with your team – maybe upskill someone or cross-train if needed.

7. Watch the Cash

It’s obvious, but crucial.

  • Invoice on time – don’t delay.

  • Keep an eye on your overheads. What can go?

  • If things look tight, talk to suppliers early. Same goes for the bank or IRD – they’ll work with you if you’re upfront.

The Wrap-Up

This slow patch won’t last forever. Builders who stay sharp, show up in the right places, and stay flexible are the ones who’ll come out of this stronger.

You don’t need to do everything at once — just take a few steps in the right direction.

Posted 8 days ago by Nick Hubbard