In New Zealand’s Canterbury region alone they are looking for 30,000 construction workers to help with the rebuild programme after the earthquake.

In Australia, there is also booming demand for skilled construction workers from engineers and electricians to plumbers.

Paul Arthur, director of migration advisors The Emigration Group said: “There is a huge shortage of skilled trade’s people down under.

“As a result there is major migration drive underway, offering a great opportunity for Brits looking to move down under.”

Major civils contractor Baulderstone, which was recently bought by Lend Lease, is also searching the UK for skilled engineers.

The company has been advertising in the UK and is offering financial assistance to relocate to Australia.

Sean Shepherd, National Human Resources Manager at Baulderstone, said: “We have been recruiting engineers from the UK for a number of years – we find the calibre of candidates to be exceptional and always a great cultural fit.

“We have recently secured a number of major projects and, as a result, a number of vacancies in our engineering businesses have opened up.

“It has been a great advantage to gain access to top talent with the assistance of Lend Lease.”

The Emigration Group has teamed up with SkilledMigrantJobs.com and The UK Joint Industry Board to provide a series of trade specific events for UK and Irish trades people who are looking to emigrate.

The events are designed to offer the opportunity to meet key industry bodies and companies that can offer work opportunities and placements in Australia and New Zealand.

Events

London, Twickenham Stadium on the 21- 22 April

Birmingham, Aston Villa FC stadium on the 28-29 April.