Consultation: Building Code fire safety review

Fires can cause enormous devastation – as we’ve witnessed during the fires at Port Hills in Christchurch, the Loafer’s Lodge in Wellington, and the Grenfell Tower in London. As we build with higher density in Aotearoa New Zealand, improving fire safety is more important than ever.

We support the Government’s intention to review fire safety in the Building Code. We agree that it’s time for clearer, simpler and more cost-effective fire safety regulations for New Zealand buildings.

BRANZ has conducted research and provided evidence into building resilience, including fire safety, for several decades. Our science is focused on unpacking the issues, providing facts and data, and developing practical solutions to improve building practices.

Our independent testing and assurance teams also work with product manufacturers, importers and authorities to provide scientific evidence of whether new and existing materials will be safe and durable if used in New Zealand’s buildings and whether they meet the requirements of the Building Code.

Climate change is creating hotter and drier conditions, which is increasing the risk of wildfires. At the same time, our cities and towns are being transformed with higher-density housing. These changes reinforce the need of fire research, regulations and rigorous product testing.

In response to this need, in 2025, BRANZ will open a new fire lab, which will be the only facility in Australasia that can test buildings up to three storeys high. It means BRANZ can better support manufacturers, suppliers and researchers to:

• test the impacts of fire on multi-storey buildings
• simulate and measure fire spread
• analyse smoke density, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide
• ensure close-to-realistic testing conditions to replicate high-density housing

This work is crucial in supporting decision makers to help prevent future fire tragedies. We’re committed to providing independent research and testing expertise to ensure changes are guided by the latest evidence in building materials and practices.