Hiring Skilled Filipino Construction Workers in New Zealand
As the fifth largest industry in New Zealand, construction plays a pivotal role in the country’s economy. Residential buildings alone accounted for approximately NZD$23.7 billion as of September 2023, underlining its substantial contribution.
To address this demand, consider hiring Filipino workers. Known for their strong work ethic and adaptability, they can seamlessly integrate into New Zealand’s construction projects and help your company contribute to the country’s overall economic state.
This blog aims to explore the benefits of hiring Filipino construction workers and how partnering with a recruitment agency for New Zealand can simplify the process.
The Demand for Filipino Construction Workers
New Zealand’s construction industry faces several challenges that impede its growth and efficiency. For one, 72% of civil construction workers see that a shortage of skilled labor hampers project completion and overall industry expansion.
Economic uncertainties, regulatory changes, and technological disruptions—such as advancements in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and drones, reshape the industry.
Filipino workers can help with these challenges by filling important roles in construction projects across New Zealand. Known for their strong work ethic and adaptability, they can ease the skilled labor shortage. They’re also quick to learn new technologies, helping New Zealand construction companies stay competitive and efficient.
5 Benefits of Hiring Filipino Construction Workers
There are many reasons why many countries actively seek Filipino workers. Here are traits that make them valuable workers in any industry, including construction.
1. Hardworking
Filipino construction workers are renowned for their strong work ethic and dedication to their craft. They often exhibit resilience and determination, willing to put in long hours to ensure project success.
For instance, during the Christchurch earthquake rebuild in New Zealand, Filipino workers worked tirelessly to finish tasks well and on time.
2. Analytical
Filipinos possess a keen analytical mindset, enabling them to assess situations critically and find innovative solutions to complex problems. This analytical approach is invaluable in construction projects where challenges often arise unexpectedly.
3. Versatile
Filipino construction workers demonstrate versatility in their skill set, often proficient in various aspects of construction, from carpentry to electrical work. This versatility allows them to adapt seamlessly to different tasks and roles within a project, contributing to its overall efficiency.
4. Multilingual
Filipino workers can speak different languages, like English, which helps them communicate well on construction sites with diverse teams. This makes working together easier and reduces confusion, making projects run more smoothly.
In New Zealand’s multicultural setting, Filipino workers’ ability to speak multiple languages creates a united and efficient work environment, improving project results.
5. Trainable
Filipinos exhibit a strong willingness to learn and adapt, making them highly trainable assets for construction companies. They readily embrace new technologies, techniques, and safety protocols, enhancing their effectiveness on the job.
Qualifications and Skills Required for New Zealand Construction Jobs
• Overseas qualifications recognition
If using overseas qualifications to support job applications, ensure they are recognized by the sector. They should match those listed on the Construction & Infrastructure Skill Shortage List (CISSL).
Sometimes, overseas qualifications must be assessed by the Qualifications Recognition Services (QRS) at the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to fit with the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF).
• Restricted Building Work (RBW) and Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs)
Some building or design work relating to residential buildings is classified as ‘restricted building work’ (RBW). To perform or supervise such work, Filipino workers must be Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) in the appropriate class. Experience in New Zealand may be required before applying for LBP status.
• Internationally registered professionals
Migrant construction workers in certain roles—such as architects, cadastral surveyors, electricians, plumbers, and gasfitters—must register with a professional body upon arrival in New Zealand.
• Chartered Professional Engineers (CPEng)
Engineers seeking to use titles like ‘Chartered Professional Engineer’ or ‘Registered Engineer’ must be listed on the Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) register that Engineering New Zealand administers. Building consent authorities often require CPEngs to certify engineering design work.
Valuable skills
Technical skills
• Carpentry – involves the construction, installation, and repair of wooden structures and fixtures.
• Bricklaying – entails the precise placement and mortar bonding of bricks and other masonry units to construct walls, arches, and other structures.
• Welding – involves the fusion of metal components using heat and pressure to create strong and durable joints.
• Heavy machinery operation – encompasses the safe and efficient operation of equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, cranes, and loaders on construction sites.
• Project and site management – involves overseeing all aspects of construction projects, from planning and budgeting to execution and completion.
• Estimation – requires accurately calculating the materials, labor, and costs required for construction projects.
• Quantity surveying – involves measuring, valuing, and procuring construction materials and services.
Soft skills
• Willingness to learn
Construction workers who demonstrate an eagerness to acquire new skills, adapt to evolving technologies, and improve their craft contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and innovation on construction sites.
• Teamwork
Effective teamwork is crucial for finishing New Zealand construction projects. Workers who collaborate well, communicate openly, share tasks, and support each other create a positive atmosphere, boosting project efficiency and morale.
• Critical thinking
Given the intricate nature of construction, where precision and accuracy are paramount, workers benefit from strong mathematical aptitude and attention to detail. These qualities enable them to execute tasks accurately, minimize errors, and ensure the structural integrity of completed projects.
• Safety-conscious
Construction sites often involve heavy machinery, elevated work areas, and exposure to various materials and elements, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Hence, it’s important for construction workers to prioritize safety to protect themselves and their colleagues from potential harm.
• Communication
Effective communication skills are essential for clear and concise exchange of information among construction team members, clients, and stakeholders in New Zealand.
Workers who can communicate confidently, listen actively, and convey ideas accurately facilitate collaboration, minimize misunderstandings, and promote project success.
Recruit Filipino Construction Workers with the Right Partner
Employing Filipino construction workers is a smart move for overcoming labor shortages in New Zealand.
If you find recruitment daunting, you can alternatively partner with agencies like Staffhouse International Resources. We can handle the entire recruitment process—from candidate screening to visa assistance—so you can focus on growth opportunities. Together, we can help you contribute to New Zealand’s economy and construction industry.
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