The Government is urging builders in Canterbury to get licensed so rebuilding after the 4 September earthquake can be speeded up.
It held a workshop at Christchurch Boys' High School on Saturday in an effort to increase the number of licenced builders.
Minister of Building and Construction Maurice Williamson says the Canterbury earthquake has highlighted the need for reliable and skilled builders.
Mr Williamson says builders who have a licence will be able to fast-track a long consenting process and make the rebuilding faster so people can get back in their homes sooner.
He says the licence process for builders has been streamlined.
The Government hopes to see 1600 licences issued by the end of November.
