Strengthening the Future: Concrete NZ’s Reinforcing Processors Sector Group

Concrete NZ is pleased to announce that its Reinforcing Processor’s Stakeholder Group has achieved Sector Group status, significantly strengthening its ability to advocate for members, share technical knowledge, advance sustainability, and champion industry training.

This transition reflects the growing importance of reinforcing processors in New Zealand’s concrete and construction industries. By formally recognising their role, Concrete NZ ensures reinforcing steel processors have a unified voice in shaping industry standards, sustainability initiatives, and workforce development.

WHAT IS THE REINFORCING SECTOR GROUP?
The Reinforcing Sector Group represents companies that specialise in processing reinforcing steel for concrete structures. The reinforcing processors act as the main link between major steel reinforcing manufacturers and the end-user of reinforcing materials. They provide the market with a one-stop processing shop for fabrication of steel reinforcement in accordance with relevant Standards.

Objectives: Supporting Members and the Industry - the Reinforcing Sector Group is committed to:

• Advocating for the industry - Promoting, developing, and protecting the interests of New Zealand’s steel reinforcing processors.
• Industry coordination and representation - Acting as a unified voice on sector matters, engaging with government in conjunction with Concrete NZ, regulators, and industry bodies.
• Standards and guidance - Supporting the development of technical standards and best industry practice.
• Knowledge sharing - Disseminating technical and market information.
• Workforce training and development - Strengthening skills and qualifications through trade training programmes.

With a focus on collaboration, technical leadership, and sustainable growth, the Group will play a pivotal role in the future of New Zealand’s construction industry.

SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING: REINFORCING STEEL’S LOW CARBON FUTURE
The latest Concrete NZ Sustainability Report marks an important step forward by incorporating data from the reinforcing steel processing sector. As a critical component in precast and cast-in-place structures, reinforcing steel contributes to the strength and resilience of New Zealand’s built environment.

Building on the 2021–2022 baseline, the 2023 Sustainability Report provides updates on emission reductions, sustainability initiatives, and industry strategies for achieving net-zero carbon goals.

Including reinforcing steel processors in industry-wide health and safety reporting demonstrates the sector’s commitment to transparency and sustainability. This expanded dataset strengthens the industry’s ability to track progress and benchmark improvements.

Reinforcing Steel: A Swiftly Reducing Carbon Footprint - Like concrete, reinforcing steel in New Zealand is rapidly decarbonising due to technological advancements and increased use of recycled materials.

New Zealand is making a major leap forward with a $300 million co-investment between New Zealand Steel and the government to install an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) at Glenbrook. This hybrid approach will:

• Increase recycled scrap steel use, reducing reliance on raw materials.
• Leverage New Zealand’s largely renewable electricity grid to cut emissions.
• Halve the embodied carbon of locally produced reinforcing steel.

This shift will reduce the embodied carbon of reinforced concrete by over 25%, all else being equal. Some New Zealand processors already offer imported rebar made from 100% recycled steel, providing further options for low-carbon construction.

With these advancements, New Zealand’s reinforcing sector is playing a key role in reducing construction emissions, reinforcing concrete’s position as a sustainable, resilient, and future-ready material.

CURRENT AREAS OF FOCUS
Enhancing Training for Reinforcing Fixing Qualification - The Reinforcing Processors Sector Group is strengthening industry training by developing a reinforcing fixing qualification. The development of the qualification was led by Waihanga Ara Rau. Vertical Horizonz (VHNZ) is now developing training resources, with their staff recently visiting a construction site to appreciate real-world practices, and in turn refine the training material.

Best Practice Guidelines for Rigging and Handling Reinforcement Cages - Safety remains a top priority, with the Group’s Health & Safety Forum developing best practice guidelines for lifting and rigging reinforcement cages at their manufacturing facility to provide practical support for workers.

CONCLUSION: STRENGTHENING ADVOCACY AND GROWTH
The Reinforcing Processors Sector Group’s elevation within Concrete NZ marks a significant step forward, reinforcing its role in shaping technical standards, sustainability efforts, and workforce development. By tackling key challenges - such as improving training resources and enhancing health and safety practices - the Group ensures reinforcing processors remain at the forefront of industry best practice.

Looking ahead, the Group will leverage its seat on the Concrete NZ Board, amplifying its influence in industry discussions. Additionally, growing its membership will be a priority, ensuring more reinforcing processors benefit from collective advocacy, knowledge sharing, and access to essential resources.

With a clear mandate and commitment to collaboration, sustainability, and continuous improvement, the Reinforcing Processors Sector Group is set to play a pivotal role in New Zealand’s concrete and construction industries.