The New Zealand Gib Shortage

by | Apr 6, 2022 | Central Auckland

Yet another supply shortage is plaguing the New Zealand building sector. Builders across the country are struggling to get their hands on Gib plasterboard, with some expecting to wait as much as 9 months for a shipment of plasterboard.

There are reports of a gib black marketing popping up with people reselling gib for upto five times the usual price. With one builder paying over $5,000 for 26 sheets of plasterboard on trademe.

First it is important to understand how this shortage started. Aproximatly 95% of plasterboard in New Zealand comes from just one supplier. “GIB” is the brand name this supplier uses for its plasterboard, which has since become synonymous with plasterboard.

During the first few covid 19 lockdowns, New Zealand’s sole provider was forced to shut down its factory, ceasing production of gib. This lack of supply caused companies to stockpile on gib causing a shortage for smaller builders without the facilities to store gib long term.

Even with production ramping up to 24/7, supply has been unable to meet demand. More people than ever are renovating and building new homes.

So, with one supply shortage after the other how can any NZ renovation be expected to take place? Well, unless your builder has a steady supply of gib you may be out of luck. The earliest one can expect gib to return to the market is July. Otherwise you might find your bathroom renovation may have to be put on hold.

So, what can you do right now?

If you were planning to start some renovations then this will surely throw a spanner in the works. What you can do right now is call your local renovations specialist and see where they stand amongst the gib shortage. If there are no supplies available to you don’t give up hope! Start planning your renovation, the build is only one part of the process, the sooner you plan and design your reno, the sooner materials can be ordered.

If you are thinking of renovating call the specialists at Maintain To Profit at 0508 2 73668 or contact us online.