Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee and New Zealand Prime Minister John Key attended the announcement ceremony of a joint venture between two Christchurch-based companies to build and operate New Zealand’s first major panelized building factory. Building manufacturer Spanbild and the country’s largest privately owned group home builder, Mike Greer Homes, will form NZ Panelized, to manufacture pre-constructed walls, floors and roof panels that will significantly increase the productivity and efficiency of buildings. As scoop.co.nz reports, Mr. Brownlee says half of the construction demand in the country is for housing. He notes, “It makes sense for the construction sector to start looking more closely at alternative building methods to manage demand without compromising on quality. I’m supportive of any enhancements that can build homes faster, cheaper and on time.” As MHProNews.com reported Aug. 21, 2012, a housing void resulting from the 10,000 homes destroyed in the Feb. 2011 Christchurch earthquake continues. ##

(Photo credit: Wikipedia–earthquake damage in Christchurch, New Zealand)