According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the construction industry accounts for 38% of total global energy-related CO2 emissions, and some estimates suggest that investing in a more resilient infrastructure could save humanity a …
In the construction industry, a quantity surveyor plays a central role in every new build project. They work out the quantities and costs of materials as well as the time and labour on tenders. They also negotiate contracts and work schedules, advise…
In late January 2023, Auckland experienced record rainfall and flooding. Two weeks later, Cyclone Gabrielle hit New Zealand and was cited as the worst storm to affect the country this century. The upper North Island, Gisborne and the Hawkes Bay areas…
On Tuesday, 14 February, and for only the third time in history, the New Zealand government announced a national state of emergency. The flooding and destruction that followed in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle left Northland, parts of Auckland and the…
More than one year ago, heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding in Westport, New Zealand. Swollen rivers burst their banks, and floodwaters cascaded right across the Buller District — damaging properties, roads and surrounding farmland. More …
On 15 January 2022, the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai submarine volcano erupted in the South Pacific. It produced one of the largest atmospheric explosions in recorded history, sending a plume of ash into the upper atmosphere. The eruption triggered a ts…
Forensic investigators are often presented with puzzling cases where the obvious evidence doesn’t naturally point to the cause, and further in-depth analysis is required to determine exactly what went wrong. While carrying out an on-site investigatio…
In response to an allegation, forensic investigators use a wide range of techniques to explain and prove the specific circumstances that led to an incident or a loss. Determining whether evidence is credible often requires an imaginative approach, bu…
For loss adjusters handling service and repairs claims, how relevant are terms and conditions (T&C) when enquiring with an insured? In NZ, loss adjusters involved in service and repair liability claims typically come from a mechanical or motor vehi…
Nearly one year ago, an Auckland-based manufacturer experienced a major fire that had a devastating impact. With the business, brand and the livelihoods of 50 employees at stake, the range of immediate concerns and challenges went beyond anything the…
While it may feel as though modern technology has ‘shrunk’ the world, the ocean is still a vast and isolated space. Ships can be thousands of kilometres from land in any direction, sometimes battling inhospitable conditions, so onboard facilities nee…
When it comes to construction projects, insurer clients want overall control without compromising efficiency or increasing spend. Previously, any major property damage claim could involve various external building consultants — with different m…
Across New Zealand, the winter weather conditions threaten to saturate the ground — potentially causing landslips and soil collapse and often, causing disruption to construction works. Increased rainfall during the winter months is expected, bu…
Between delays and temperature exposures, event cancelations and general uncertainties around COVID-19, the marine industry has had its fair share of challenges during the pandemic. As restrictions continue to develop, many importers and exporters ar…
Combustible cladding has been installed on numerous buildings where it has significantly increased the risk of fire spread, putting lives at great risk. The Lacrosse Building fire in Melbourne in 2014 and the Grenfell Tower fire in London in 2017 are…