Job opportunities for aluminium joiners have decreased since mid-2008, largely because of a slump in the residential building sector.
Job prospects have also been affected by new technology, which has taken over some tasks previously done by aluminium joiners. The number of aluminium joiners in New Zealand fell by about 13% between 2001 and 2006, despite a building boom during the period.
Number of aluminium joiners in New Zealand
(1996, 2001 and 2006)| Year | Number of aluminium joiners |
|---|
| 1996 | 1,227 |
| 2001 | 1,245 |
| 2006 | 1,077 |
| Source: Department of Labour, Jobs and Tertiary Education Indicator Tool. |
Residential building slump means fewer job opportunities for aluminium joiners
The number of residential buildings under construction nationwide has dropped markedly – down 28% in 2008 from the previous year – the lowest annual total since 1993.
Most aluminium joiners work in the residential building sector, so the slump has meant significantly fewer opportunities to pick up work. Competition for aluminium joinery jobs in the commercial sector has also risen as a result.
Housing shortage may see renewed demand for aluminium 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 2010-2011, and renewed demand for aluminium joiners.
Commercial construction still performing well
Though fewer aluminium joiners work in commercial (non-residential) building than residential building, the sector is an important source of income for some aluminium joinery businesses. The commercial construction sector remained strong in 2008 and into 2009, and continued to provide aluminium 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 aluminium joinery jobs in this sector.
Aluminium joinery businesses vary in size. They range from small businesses employing fewer than five staff, to medium-sized businesses employing five to 20 staff, and large businesses employing over 20 staff.
However, the industry has become increasingly dominated by larger businesses, and some smaller businesses have closed because they are unable to compete.
Aluminium joiners work throughout New Zealand. However, most aluminium joinery businesses are located in the larger cities, such as Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, where demand is greater due to population. Rural businesses tend to employ just a few staff.
