what we learned from christchurch taking the risk out ... - PlaceMakers

FOREWORDLessons to be learnedHistory doesn’t need to repeat itselfMajor tragedies often bring about change and, in the case of theCanterbury earthquakes, those changes are already under way.First and foremost, it has reminded everyone of New Zealand’sseismic activity and put the spotlight on earthquake strengtheningand our approach to building design. In this month’s editionof Under Construction, BRANZ focuses on how different buildingdesigns performed in and around Christchurch. While mostmodern buildings performed as designed – with the focus solely onpreserving life – many commercial building owners are now lookingto also ensure buildings can be repaired and reoccupied quickly.Building Code compliance document amendments that resultedfrom post-earthquake studies, such as eliminating the use ofunreinforced slab-on-ground floors, are already passed with otherchanges in the works. Design methods that stood up well in theearthquakes will no doubt become preferred practice elsewherein the country.This is why keeping up to date with what’s happening inChristchurch is important for the industry – not just becauseworking on the rebuild seems to be Plan B for every builder,but also because analysis of the damage has, and will, continueto result in changes to the Building Code and building designthroughout the country.John BeveridgeChief ExecutiveWhen Justin Macready started work at PlaceMakers in Christchurch in 1993, itwas only meant to be for a couple of years while he saved up for a trip to the UK.Twenty years later, he’s still with the company and more than happy where he is.“It just seemed that every time I got itchy feet, there was another opportunity oranother challenge to take on,” says the PlaceMakers Dunedin joint venture operator.“Before I knew it, I’d worked my way through the business and, in 2009, I wasgiven the chance to become JV in Dunedin.”Justin moved with his wife and two kids and he says the whole family love theirnew home and its close-knit community. When Justin’s not at work, he’s usuallyspending quality time with his family, tackling local tracks on his mountain bike,or cheering on the Highlanders, his favourite team.