Kia ora ,
Well, 2025 is certainly living up to its reputation - kicking off at speed and showing no signs of slowing down! From sector-wide conversations on digital transformation to major developments in policy and procurement, it’s been a dynamic start to the year.
A standout moment last month was
DigiCom 2025, where FM unexpectedly took a well-deserved spotlight. From digital twins to operational outcomes, the kōrero signalled a clear shift toward whole-of-life thinking - FMANZ was proud to be part of it. You can read more about our involvement
here.
We’re keeping a close eye on the
Government Procurement Rules consultation. It’s important our voice is heard, given the significant expenditure our sector represents. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to explore the consultation and consider making a
submission.
A quick note on individual membership fees: you’ll notice a small increase applied at your next renewal. This adjustment helps us keep pace with rising costs and continue investing in the services, events, and advocacy that support you and the wider FM community.
Meanwhile, a big thank you to everyone who submitted nominations for this year’s
Ngā Tohu a FMANZ Awards. Nominations are now closed and judging is underway, with finalists to be announced soon. We look forward to celebrating with you all at our dedicated awards night on 24 July in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. Keep an eye out for surrounding events designed to encourage you to join us from across the motu.
And don’t forget -
World FM Day is just around the corner! We’re celebrating with the return of our popular quiz events, bringing FM professionals together to mark the occasion across Aotearoa.
As always, thank you for the energy, ideas and commitment you bring to our community - whether that’s through events, learning, or simply showing up for each other in your everyday work.
Ngā mihi mahana
Nā Jo
Jo Duggan
CEO
FMANZ
Huge congratulations to our newly assessed members, who have recently been approved into their new membership categories.
Samantha Page, Stuart P.C Ltd, AFMANZ
Aryan Patel, Colliers, AFMANZ
Paul Amaral, Haumaru Housing, PFMANZ
Vicki-Lee McCreanor, Southern Property, AFMANZ
Greg Finch, Christchurch City Council, AFMANZ
Sam Ashworth, Christchurch City Council, AFMANZ
Kelly Anderson-Rowe, Hato Hone St John, AFMANZ
Deborah Charman, Health Alliance, AFMANZ
Damien Gartner, WellingtonNZ, PFMANZ
They can start using their post-nominals in their email signatures, CV and more to demonstrate their commitment to their career and to the FM industry. Feel like you're missing out? Show the world you're serious about your career development by applying for professional membership. You'll find all the information you need
here
AWARDS NEXT STEPS
Nominations officially closed for this year's
Ngā Tohu a FMANZ Awards last Friday. The Awards Committee is looking forward to carefully sifting through them all ahead of shortlisting for interviews, with finalists being announced in June. We can't wait to celebrate our finalists and winners at this year's dedicated Awards evening at the iconic Q Theatre in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland on Thursday, 24 July. We hope to see you there. More details to come...watch this space!
INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
As highlighted in our recent email to individual members, we're introducing a small increase to our individual membership fee. From 1 April 2025, the annual membership fee will increase by $25, bringing it to $375 + GST and will be implemented as your current membership renews for the year. This reflects a considered adjustment below the current inflation rate, and marks our first update in two years, despite absorbing rising operational costs over that period. If you have any concerns or questions, please contact
membership@fmanz.org. We look forward to supporting you in another successful year ahead.
IS THE GOLDEN PROMISE FINALLY BEING REALISED?
Jo Duggan, FMANZ CEO, reflects on
DigiComm 2025, exploring the evolving role of digital tools and long-term operational thinking in facilities management, while questioning whether the "Golden Promise" of the industry is finally being realised...
Starting with a Slice of Humble Pie
I began my day at DigiComm 2025 - hosted by the newly rebranded Building Institute Aotearoa, formerly known as the NZ Institute of Building - convinced I could count on one hand how many times “operations” would even be mentioned. With most of the 250+ attendees hailing from the design and construction world, it felt like a safe bet. But fast forward to the opening presentation, and there I was, mentally nibbling on humble pie. Read more
here.
PATHWAY TO EXCELLENCE
Last month's inaugural online Certified Membership Pathway Session saw an impressive turnout of aspiring Certified Members. The session brought together the operations team and several current Certified Members to offer practical advice and clear guidance on the certification process. This informal yet highly informative drop-in session also served as a valuable platform for attendees to connect with potential mentors and have their questions answered. Read more
here.
PREPARING FOR 3G SWITCH OFF
With NZ’s mobile network operators – One NZ, Spark, and 2degrees – shutting down their 3G networks by the end of this year, we've pulled together a valuable resource page to help you manage the transition. Check it out for useful tips and access to a recording of our recent 'Goodbye 3G' webinar. You can find it
here.
GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT PROPOSALS - YOUR THOUGHTS?
In response to the
government's proposals to reduce the number of rules guiding the tender process for their contracts, FMANZ plans to make a submission on behalf of members. The government says that streamlining the rules and focusing on economic growth will give businesses a welcome boost. Others however are concerned and say that scrapping requirements to pay contractors a living wage, purchase recyclable or low waste supplies and electric or hybrid vehicles, and build to a minimum of five Green Stars, are a backwards step. These proposals will affect many of us, so we'd love to hear from you to ensure we can support your views in our submission. Contact FMANZ CEO, Jo Duggan, via
jo@fmanz.org to arrange a time for a quick chat, ahead of the close of submission at 5pm tomorrow - Tuesday, 8 April.
NEW TO FMANZ?
If you're new to FMANZ, you'll benefit from our 'FMANZ Essentials for New Members' online sessions. These new bi-monthly online drop-in sessions are the perfect way to get the most out of your membership by learning more about our purpose, values, and how we support facilities professionals like you. Join us to meet the FMANZ operations team, connect with other new members from across the country, meet your local branch membership coordinator and learn how they can help you get to know your local branch. You'll also discover the events, professional development pathways, and networking opportunities available to you and get practical tips on using the member portal. We’ll wrap up each session with a Q&A and help connect you with others in your region or area of interest. Our first session is set for 12 - 12.45pm, Thursday, 8 May. Register
here. We look forward to meeting you and welcoming you into our vibrant community.
WORLD FM DAY ON THE HORIZON
World FM Day is on the horizon (Wednesday, 14 May) - a day to celebrate the important contributions and achievements of our FM community and reflect on the valuable work you do to keep our places and spaces healthy, safe and productive. This year's theme is 'Resilience in Action: Thriving in a World of Change', emphasising the proactive role of FM professionals in managing risks and driving innovation and sustainability to ensure their organisations can adapt and succeed in an ever-changing world.
We're marking the occasion with the return of our popular World FM Day quiz events, a chance to pit your general (and FM) knowledge against your peers and win some great prizes. Get a team together, or come solo, either way, we'll make sure you're included. Special thanks to Resene for once again supporting these fun quiz events. Register
here.
WHAT'S ON
MANAGING CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE: SECURITY & EVOLVING THREATS - AUCKLAND
It's not too late to register for Auckland's in-person workshop this
Wednesday, 9 April. Join security expert,
Jonathan Howe, and representatives from the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS), GCSB's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and NZ Police for our final full-day masterclass. This is a unique opportunity to flush out security and safety vulnerabilities and develop a tangible plan to ensure your own workplace is a safer place. Register
here.
AUT NORTH CAMPUS SITE TOUR - AUCKLAND
FMANZ Auckland invites you to an exclusive site tour of AUT's North Campus - a unique opportunity to explore the campus infrastructure, plant rooms, teaching spaces, and staff areas while gaining insight into how AUT operates and maintains its facilities. Join us this
Wednesday 9 April, 5-7pm. Register
here.
FUTURE-PROOF ASSET & MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT
Whether you’re new to Maintenance and Asset Management or an experienced pro, this webinar will provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the industry. Join presenter,
Jan Stoker, founder and owner of SSAMM (Sustainable Asset & Maintenance Management) on
Wednesday, 30 April, as he explores how organisations can achieve structured and effective maintenance management while preparing for future advancements. Register
here.
WORLD FM DAY QUIZ EVENTS
Join us to celebrate World FM Day on
Wednesday, 14 May at one of our popular World FM Day quiz events. This is your chance to pit your general (and FM) knowledge against your peers and win some great prizes. Get a team together, or come solo, either way, we'll make sure you're included. Special thanks to Resene for once again supporting these fun quiz events. Register
here.
FMANZ ESSENTIALS FOR NEW MEMBERS
If you're new a new member, join us for the lowdown on everything FMANZ at our first 'FMANZ Essentials for New Members' session on
Thursday, 8 May, 12 - 12.45pm. These new bi-monthly online drop-in sessions are the perfect way to get the most out of your membership by learning more about our purpose, values, and how we support facilities professionals like you. Register
here.
CERTIFIED MEMBERSHIP PATHWAY SESSION
Do you aspire to elevate your facilities management career? Join us for our next online Certified Membership Pathway Session on Thursday, 12 June. Held bi-monthly, these sessions are your gateway to professional recognition. Join these sessions to support your journey to Certified Membership. Registrations open soon.
FMANZ AWARDS 2025
Our
Ngā Tohu a FMANZ Awards evening promises to be a highlight of this year's events calendar. Join us as we celebrate the stars of FM at the iconic Q Theatre in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland on
Thursday, 24 July. Keep an eye out for further details.
BUILDING COMPLIANCE ONLINE WORKSHOPS
Back by popular demand! Building Networks'
Rosemary Killip returns once again to facilitate our Building Compliance online workshops.101 gives FM newcomers an introduction to building compliance and serves as a refresher for those already in the field. 201 is for experienced mid-management and senior FMs. Don’t miss these interactive sessions on
4 and 18 August. Register for 101 or 201 independently, or as a combo. Register
here.
FM SUMMIT 2025
FM Summit 2025 is locked in! We're heading to the capital for THE biggest and best Summit ever. Join us in Tākina, Wellington's premium conference space, on
Thursday 9 and Friday 10 October for two incredible days of inspiring presentations, thought-provoking discussions and endless networking. Ahead of Summit, join one of our exclusive building tours on
Wednesday, 8 October, followed by a special welcome function at the Parliament buildings. Block the dates out in your diary now!
EXPLORING EXCELLENCE - FM STUDY TOUR 2025
New dates have now been confirmed for our inaugural FM study tour. Join us
3–6 December for behind-the-scenes access to some of Melbourne's iconic sites. Our exciting itinerary features exclusive site tours, including the MCG and Crown Casino, opportunities to learn from key industry leaders, and attendance at the FM Industry Awards for Excellence. Contact
jo@fmanz.org to register your interest.
SNIPPETS
MATES LONG LAP
This April,
MATES in Construction are bringing people together to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention across the construction industry, while acknowledging the industry losing a worker to suicide every five days. Grab your mates and sign up to run, ride, swim or walk to raise funds for this worthy cause. Every kilometre you track contributes to the MATES goal of traversing New Zealand 5 times. Registrations now open
here.
WSNZ FINDINGS A STARK REMINDER
On the back of last month's National Series events focused on managing the H&S at Work Act and PCBU obligations to ensure safe and healthy work environments, Work Safe NZ have released their findings following the death of a contractor involved in a supply chain in the forestry sector. The findings are a stark reminder of the messages presented at our National Series events around PCBU obligations and overlapping duties. You can read the findings
here. FMANZ members can view the National Series presentation recording and slides on the Member Resources page of the web site.
RECOMMENDED
READ
Got an AI conundrum? Our friends at the New Zealand Construction Industry Council (NZCIC) have pulled together a useful guide featuring AI resources including suggested apps and platforms and useful websites. Download a copy of the guide
here.
A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR
Concerns about aging town water infrastructure and its impact on building sprinkler systems are growing nationwide, with Wellington City serving as a prominent example due to frequent pipe leaks and bursts; Argus is keen to raise awareness of potential issues. For buildings with sprinkler systems, reliable water supply is critical, as reduced pressure or leaks can compromise system performance and compliance. If the sprinkler system’s design flow demands are not met during testing, the system may be deemed non-compliant. Worst case scenario solutions may require storage tanks and pumps. Industry bodies are working on ways to address these challenges by collaborating with local water organisations and engaging nationally. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) is also reviewing its Code of Practice for Fire Fighting Water Supplies, with public consultation forthcoming. If you find yourself in this situation, ensure you are actively engaged with all relevant parties, including your fire systems service provider. They will be able to collaborate with the relevant industry experts if need be, to develop an acceptable solution.
WHAT IS IT?
Continuing with our celebration of this year's FM Summit theme - '
Performance | Art', this month's challenge is inspired by famous works of art. Be the tenth person to correctly guess the artist behind this famous painting from our multi-choice answers below, and you'll win a $50 Prezzy card. Congratulations to Braden Doyle from Precinct Properties, who was the tenth person to correctly name Whale Rider as our mystery NZ movie scene last edition. Email your best guess to
editor@fmanz.org.
A. The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dali
B. Slavery! Slavery! by Kara Walker
C. Nocturne in Black and Gold, the Falling Rocket by James McNeill
D. The Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh