Christchurch, New Zealand — The scaffolding community across New Zealand is mourning the passing of David Spice, a founding member and Life Member of Scaffolding, Access & Rigging New Zealand Inc. (SARNZ), whose influence helped shape the very foundations of the country’s industry.
Described by colleagues as an “absolute industry legend,” Spice dedicated decades of his life to scaffolding—not for accolades, but out of a deep commitment to safety, standards, and mentorship.
As one of the original architects of SARNZ, he played a pivotal role in establishing a national framework that continues to support and elevate scaffolders across the country.
“David wasn’t just part of the scaffolding industry. He helped build it,” SARNZ said in a heartfelt tribute on LinkedIn.
“He gave decades of his life to this industry, not for recognition, but because he believed in doing things the right way, and lifting others up along the way.”
Throughout his career, Spice personally trained and supported hundreds of scaffolders, guiding them through their certifications and instilling in them the values of integrity and professionalism. His legacy is felt not only in the yards and on the sites, but in the confidence and competence of those he mentored.
“He was deeply respected, quietly humble, and fiercely committed to doing things the right way,” the statement continued. “He set a standard not just in scaffolding, but in leadership and integrity.”
The industry’s thoughts are with his children, Laurie, Vadim, Kirk, Vaughn, Clete, and Taryn—and the entire Spice family —as they prepare to farewell a man whose character and contributions will long be remembered.
A funeral service will be held on 25th July in Christchurch, with further details to be announced. A formal tribute is also planned at this year’s SARNZ Conference.
