RLB CRANE INDEX®

The number of long-term cranes across New Zealand’s main centres increased from 105 in Q1 2025 to 116 in Q3 2025, lifting the national RLB Crane Index® from 133 to 147 points, a 10.5% rise.

In short, cranes may be climbing, but they are doing so against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, cautious investment, rising unemployment, and declining migration. The long-term outlook remains positive, underpinned by a strong rural economy and the expectation of continued lower interest rates. For now, however, the recovery is uneven — and the skyline tells the story of a market showing tentative signs of revival.

Residential construction remains subdued but shows signs of stabilisation. National building activity fell 10.4% in Q1 2025 on an actual value basis, yet residential projects added a net three cranes. Dwelling consents increased 0.2% year-on-year in the first half of 2025. Developers remain cautious, especially in Auckland, where demand has softened, though the government’s Residential Development Underwrite scheme may help ease financing pressures. Residential cranes now total 29 across the main centres, making up 25% of the national total.

Non-residential activity continues under pressure, with a 10.2% year-on-year decline in Q1 2025. Consents decreased in Auckland and Canterbury but were partly offset by gains in Wellington. Amid this overall contraction, several subsectors grew. Net crane additions in data centres, industrial projects, aged care, and hotels highlight areas of long-term investment linked to infrastructure demand, demographic shifts, and tourism. The non-residential index increased from 139 to 153 points, supported by 87 cranes.

Regionally, Auckland remains the leader, with 59 cranes representing over half the national total. Christchurch also recorded gains, supported by Te Kaha Stadium, which remains the largest single site in the country with ten cranes in operation. Hamilton, Queenstown, and Tauranga all saw increases, while Wellington and Dunedin experienced declines.