Making it easier for consumers to understand what work their plumber, gasfitter or drainlayer can do

The Board have announced the outcome of the registration class names review. The Board began reviewing our registration class names in 2023. One of the big drivers behind the name change is the existing names did not make it clear to consumers what work practitioners are allowed to do, and under what level of supervision.

Feedback from the consultation process showed strong support for the proposed name change. While we understand that not everyone felt a change was necessary, many shared that now is the right time to take this step. We heard it was a good opportunity to move to gender inclusive names for registration, which reflects a modern workforce.

After considering the feedback from consultation, the Board wrote to the Minister for Building and Construction recommending the names be changed. The Minister gave his approval and now the Board are pleased to announce the following registration class name changes:

• Journeyman Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers will become Restricted Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers

• Tradesman Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers will become Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers.

There is no change for Certifying Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers.

The changes will be published in time for the new licensing year starting 1 April 2025.

The Board would like to thank those that took the time to respond to the consultation, a summary of which can be read here.

The Board has informed key stakeholders which includes tertiary providers and building consent authorities. We will update the section for consumers on our website and advertise these changes more widely in the lead up to 1 April 2025.

If you have any questions or concerns about the registration name class changes, please contact registration@pgdb.co.nz.