Job opportunities for joiners have decreased since mid-2008, largely due to a slump in the number of new houses and apartments being built in New Zealand.

Residential building slump means fewer job opportunities for joiners

Nationally, the number of residential buildings under construction has dropped markedly – down 28% in 2008 from the previous year – the lowest annual total since 1993.

Most joiners work in the residential building sector, so the slump has meant significantly fewer opportunities to pick up work. Competition for joinery jobs in the commercial building sector has also risen significantly as a result.

Housing shortage and renovations may see renewed demand for joiners

Industry sources suggest the current lull in new house building could result in a housing shortage as early as mid-2009. This could see a surge in house building in 2010 or 2011, and renewed demand for joiners.

While the number of new houses being built has fallen, industry sources note homeowners are focusing more on improving the appearance of their homes before selling or renting them out. This has meant a marked increase in small residential renovations and alterations.

Housing New Zealand has also started work on renovating 18,000 state houses, which it aims to have completed by July 2010.

Commercial construction jobs may also begin to slow

Though fewer joiners work in commercial (non-residential) building than residential building, the sector is an important source of income for some joinery businesses. The commercial construction sector remained strong in 2008 and continued to provide joiners with work.  

How well the commercial building sector performs in 2009 will largely depend on how the wider economy performs. Some industry commentators are predicting commercial construction will slow in 2009, further increasing competition for joinery jobs.

There are some large joinery businesses, but most joiners work for small firms who have between one and nine employees.

About 11% of joiners are self-employed.

Joiners work throughout New Zealand. However, most are employed in the main centres of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, where demand is greatest because of population.

Computerised machinery is playing a growing role in joinery work. This means joiners increasingly need technical skills to be able to use joinery equipment.