???1;The construction sector's feeling optimistic, despite weak demand

Latest research from NZIER shows architects are expecting a decline in the pipeline of work over the coming year, across housing, commercial and Government construction work.

Deputy Chief Executive Christina Leung says the slowdown's also reflected in the proportion of building firms reporting new orders and output.

She says confidence is still improving though, as firms expect things to pick up over the longer term.

Leung says beyond the coming year, architects are seeing a general improvement in the pipeline of housing and commercial construction work.