Dual Roles, Clearer Outcomes: Unpacking NZS3910:2023 — From Engineer and Their Dual Role to Contract Administrator & Independent Certifier

Note: This online event is held on Zoom. Registrations will close 4 PM the day prior and the access link will be delivered shortly after.

About this event:

The NZS3910 Conditions of Contract for Building and Civil Engineering Construction has been a cornerstone of New Zealand’s construction industry since 1987. The latest revision, NZS3910:2023, is its most significant update yet, aiming to reduce reliance on Special Conditions and improve consistency, clarity, and efficiency across the industry.

One of the most notable changes? The removal of the Engineer to the Contract and its dual role — replaced by two distinct roles: Contract Administrator and Independent Certifier.

Join Arthur Chung and Pieter Venter from Wynyard Wood as they guide us through:

🔹 A snapshot of the traditional dual role of the Engineer under NZS3910:2013 — and the legal and practical challenges that arose
🔹 An introduction to the Contract Administrator and Independent Certifier under NZS3910:2023
🔹 Key new definitions and process updates around administration and certification
🔹 Practical implications for Principals, Contractors, and Consultants — and how these changes might play out on real projects

This session is designed to be interactive — so bring your questions, challenges, and observations. While the new standard was published in November 2023, most of the industry is still working with NZS3910:2013 and layering on Special Conditions.

As legal advisors working closely with construction clients, Arthur and Pieter believe NZS3910:2023 moves the needle in the right direction — but they’re equally keen to hear from those stepping into the new roles of Contract Administrator and Independent Certifier.

About the presenters:

Arthur Chung – Director, Wynyard Wood
Arthur Chung is a seasoned property and construction law specialist with over 25 years of experience across New Zealand and Southeast Asia. He brings deep expertise in commercial leasing, property development, construction, infrastructure, and public works law.

Arthur regularly advises on construction and infrastructure projects, with a strong focus on preparing tender and contract documentation, consultancy agreements, and providing contract administration advice. His extensive experience also includes public works acquisitions and offer-back processes.

Throughout his career, Arthur has been a trusted legal advisor to local authorities, government agencies, infrastructure providers, institutional investors, developers, listed and private companies, and funders.

Prior to joining Wynyard Wood, Arthur was a partner at Meredith Connell and a senior associate at Chapman Tripp. From 2001 to 2006, he practised in Singapore — first with the Projects and Infrastructure Group at Rajah & Tann, then with the International Arbitration Team at Jones Day, handling complex regional and international construction disputes.


Pieter Venter – Special Counsel, Wynyard Wood
Pieter Venter is a highly experienced barrister and solicitor with over 20 years of practice in the legal field, currently serving as Special Counsel at Wynyard Wood.

Pieter’s expertise lies particularly in litigation, with a focus on building and insurance-related disputes. He has appeared in various courts and forums on matters involving general civil litigation. He frequently consults with and instructs experts, including engineers to compile engineering and geotechnical reports, and has represented clients in cases involving professional negligence within the building industry.

Before relocating to New Zealand, Pieter worked as a barrister sole in the High Court of South Africa. Prior to his barrister career, he served as a solicitor, conveyancer, and partner at a South African law firm. He was also admitted as a lawyer in New South Wales, adding a broad international perspective to his legal experience.

PDU's available:

• Power Skills (1 PDU)

Hosted by: PMINZ Women in Project Management