The Best Trade Associations for NZ Tradies

Trade associations are often underrated tools that many tradies don’t add to their toolboxes. They can connect you to people in your industry, boost your marketing efforts, and help grow your skillset. So, which are the best trade associations for Kiwi tradies to join? 

Get everything you need to improve your skills and your business and the Behind the Tools Resource Centre!

Short on time? Skip ahead!

• 1. Why join a trade association?
• 2. The best trade associations in NZ
• 3. Join an NZ trade association today

1. Why join a trade association? 

Keep up with compliance changes 

Trade associations keep you informed of the latest industry changes, so you can be sure you’re doing things by the book. 

Meet likeminded tradies 

A trade association membership lets you exchange ideas with other experts and boost your industry knowledge.

Tap into networking opportunities

Networking is a huge part of growing your trade business. Trade associations open doors to expand your network and give you a wider reach.

Advance your skillset 

Trade associations notify you of learning and development opportunities so you always stay at the top of your profession.  

2. The best trade associations in NZ

Best building & construction association: Registered Master Builders Association (RMBA)

RMBA represents over 3000 of the country’s top builders and construction companies. A membership gives you access to mentorship, business training, dispute guidance and discounts on vehicles and insurance products. 

See here for our full list of building & construction associations!

Best HVAC association: Institute of Refrigeration, Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers (IRHACE)

The IRHACE has memberships to suit all HVAC technicians, from apprentice to veteran. As a member, you’ll enjoy networking opportunities at industry workshops, conferences and social events. There’s also the possibility of connecting with government representatives to discuss HVAC laws and regulations.  

See here for our full list of HVAC associations!

Best plumbing association: Master Plumbers of New Zealand (MPNZ)

With a range of training and support, the MPNZ helps Kiwi tradies become fully qualified plumbers. A renowned company in New Zealand and Australia, the MPNZ will set you apart from the competition by offering training and networking opportunities that’ll help secure more work. 

See here for our full list of plumbing associations!

Best electrical association: Master Electricians NZ (MENZ)

MENZ is the only association that supports electrical contractors in NZ. Membership will let you have your say in the industry, access legal advice and health and safety support, and save money through exclusive member-only offers.

Best gas association: Gas Association of New Zealand (GasNZ)

GasNZ is paving the way for a cleaner future for NZ and wants Kiwi gas engineers on board. Committed to achieving a net zero carbon future, its membership offers the opportunity for sustainability-conscious tradies to connect with the NZ government on the future of gas. 

See here for our full list of gas associations! 

3. Join an NZ trade association today

In a competitive market, joining a trade association can be good for your career and the growth of your trade business. They offer up-to-date industry news, training and development opportunities, and the chance to connect with thousands of like-minded tradies. On top of that, an efficient job management system like Tradify lets you automate manual admin processes so you can focus on more important tasks, like customer service and growing your team. 

Want to experience the benefits of an organised business? Sign up for a 14-day free trial with Tradify. No credit card is required. No commitment. Or visit one of our live demo webinars to see Tradify in action.