The Building Research Levy Act 1969  authorises the levying of building contractors. This provides funding for practical research, tools and guidance that benefit the entire building sector and all New Zealanders.
What can the Levy be invested in?
Under the Building Research Levy Act, Levy funds can be used for:
- Research and scientific work related to the building and construction industry
- Grants to individuals or organisations for building and construction-related research
- Publishing and sharing information and expertise
- Establishing and maintaining a library
- Hosting lectures, seminars, exhibitions, and public meetings to share building research
- Providing advisory services
- Acquiring land and premises for BRANZ purposes
- Paying staff salaries and director honoraria
Governance: Investment guided by the sector
BRANZ uses a strong governance process to ensure Levy funding delivers real value for the sector and all New Zealanders.
Levy investment is determined by BRANZ’s sector priorities, which are guided by the Building Research Advisory Council, a cross-sector group.
Individual research proposals are then assessed by the Research Investment Advisory Group, an independent panel of sector experts representing science, industry, Iwi, Government and the Building Research Advisory Council.
The Research Investment Advisory Group’s role is simple but critical:
- Assess proposals against investment criteria
- Advise the BRANZ Inc. Board on where Levy investment will deliver the greatest impact
- Ensure research priorities reflect real world challenges and opportunities
This process ensures Levy funding is targeted, relevant, and impactful to deliver more affordable, quality, resilient, and sustainable buildings for Aotearoa New Zealand.
Updated: 2 October 2025