Industry experts are expecting a shortfall of plumbers in New Zealand over the next five years as high demand from the Auckland housing boom and the Christchurch rebuild hoovers up available tradespeople.

In Auckland, where interest rates are low and a penchant for DIY borders on fetish, it is predicted that in the next two years there will be a plumber shortfall of 59 percent which means the region will be 601 plumbers short.

The Master Plumbers Association says the problem will flow on to the regions. Chief executive Greg Wallace said not enough people were entering the industry. "We are not training enough for the outcomes that we need," Wallace said.

The association's Taranaki president Sam Tyson said while it was a nation wide problem, it would result in people in the region paying more and waiting longer for a plumber. "We've got Auckland and Christchurch needing plumbers and the prediction over the next few years we are going to need 600 plumbers," Tyson said.

"The reality is for the consumers only one thing is going to happen - the rates for plumbers is going to have to go up because of the lack of certified or licensed tradesmen to do the job."

The average age for plumbers was 50 and it took four to six years to complete an apprenticeship.  Wallace said he would encourage school leavers to consider a career in the industry.

"Our industry has a good reputation, you can get licensed and you get a qualification that's recognised around the world."There is an absolute need for plumbers and there always will be."

Sources:

• stuff.co.nz
• Newshub