Hundreds of entries

This year the Registered Master Builders House of the Year regional competition attracted more than 347 entries across 11 regions.

The national awards later this month will recognise the Supreme House of the Year and Supreme Renovation of the Year, alongside 15 award categories, the Pink Batts Craftsmanship Award, two Feature Home Awards, and four Lifestyle Awards including the Outdoor Living Excellence Award, Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award, APL Sustainable Excellence Award, and Kitchen Excellence Award.

The judges say that this year there’s real diversity among the year Top 100 houses, which include 24 from the Canterbury region.

“There’s a home built out of on-site quarried schist in Queenstown, an ultra-modern box style home in Auckland, a lighthouse inspired bach in Timaru, and homes made out of the most high-tech and sustainable materials we have available.”

The judges also commented the impact Covid-19 has had on the homes they are judging, particularly with the more recent renovations.

“Since our first lockdown last year, we are seeing more people pay more attention to their homes and creating a space they can not only live in but enjoy. We are seeing the integration of more smart systems in the home, as well as homes offices or working spaces.

“Energy efficiency and sustainable homes is another trend that has been front of mind for homeowners and builders throughout the country.”

The awards also recognise the building and construction sectors’ contribution to the New Zealand economy.

Kelly says, “We play a vital role in New Zealand. Every $1 million spent on house building supports $2.6 million across the wider economy. But our greatest source of pride is that we are building the quality homes that Kiwis will live in for generations to come.”