Question 1

What does a construction project manager do?

Accepted Answer

A construction project manager acts as the client's independent representative, overseeing planning, procurement, budget, contracts, and delivery from feasibility through to completion. Unlike a contractor or architect, a project manager works solely for the client's interests, coordinating the design team, contractors, and consultants to keep the project on programme, on budget, and contractually protected.

Question 2

What is client-side project management?

Accepted Answer

Client-side project management means the project manager is engaged directly by, and works exclusively for, the property or asset owner, rather than the contractor or developer. This independence removes conflicts of interest and ensures decisions around cost, risk, and programme are made in the client's best interests at every stage of the build.

Question 3

Do I need a project manager for my construction project?

Accepted Answer

If your project involves multiple contractors, a formal contract such as NZS 3910, a defined budget, or any complexity in design or consenting, a project manager reduces risk and protects your investment. Even smaller builds, like fit-outs, benefit from independent oversight to avoid disputes, cost overruns, and delays.

Question 4

What is NZS 3910 contract administration?

Accepted Answer

NZS 3910 is New Zealand's standard form construction contract, and contract administration under it involves managing variations, payment claims, extensions of time, and compliance obligations for both principal and contractor. BPM Ltd administers NZS 3910 contracts to reduce disputes and keep projects contractually sound.

Question 5

How much does a construction project manager cost in NZ?

Accepted Answer

Project management fees in New Zealand are typically charged as either a percentage of construction cost, commonly around 3 to 8 percent depending on project size and complexity, or a fixed or time-based fee for smaller or advisory engagements. BPM Ltd scopes fees per project, so contact us for a no-obligation quote based on your specific build.

Question 6

What areas does BPM Ltd cover in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

BPM Ltd operates from offices in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, with additional coverage in Nelson/Tasman and Queenstown, and delivers projects nationwide as well as across the Pacific Islands, including Fiji and Tonga.

Question 7

What's the difference between a project manager and a quantity surveyor?

Accepted Answer

A project manager oversees the entire delivery process, including programme, procurement, contracts, and risk, while a quantity surveyor focuses specifically on cost estimation, measurement, and financial control. BPM Ltd provides both disciplines in-house, so cost control is integrated directly into project delivery rather than managed separately.

Question 8

Does BPM Ltd manage seismic strengthening projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BPM Ltd has delivered seismic strengthening projects for clients including Victoria University of Wellington and commercial building owners, managing everything from staged consenting to contractor procurement and NZS 3910 administration.

Question 9

What types of construction projects does BPM Ltd manage?

Accepted Answer

BPM Ltd manages commercial developments, seismic strengthening, fit-outs, refurbishments, retail and hospitality builds including national roll-out programmes, council and education infrastructure, water infrastructure, flood remediation, and residential developments.

Question 10

How do I get started with BPM Ltd?

Accepted Answer

Contact BPM Ltd for a free, no-obligation conversation about your project's planning, risk, contract, and delivery strategy, even at an early or pre-feasibility stage. You can reach the team through the website contact form, by phone on 0508 276 583, or by email at info@bpm.org.nz.

Celebrating 10 Years of BPM Getting (Good) Sh*t Done

Miramar Links | How Wellington’s Premier Golf & Entertainment Hub Is Already Pulling It’s Weight As A Community Builder

Tenanted Properties, Complex Programmes & Procurement - Why Governance Is Half the Project

New Zealand's Water Infrastructure Crisis: What Councils, Schools & Communities Need to Know

All Is Not What It Seems: Why Engaging A Project Manager for Your Granny Flat Is A Smart Move

Sign up to our newsletter