Pride of Wanganui

B BULLOCK & CO LTD, Est 1928

H & A PRINTERS & STATIONERS, Est 1923

EMMETT BROS LTD, Est 1950

WANGANUI EYECARE, Est 1964

Serving Our City For Over 25 Years

WANGANUI COLLEGIATE SCHOOL, Est 1854

McDONALD EQUIPMENT, Est 1990

WANGANUI CHRONICLE, Est 1856

WANGANUI GOLF CLUB, Est 1894

JACK RIDDET TRIPE, Est 1881

2

Pride of Wanganui In an age when businesses seem to disappear not long after they’ve arrived, longevity is often seen as something of a curiosity.

But in places like Whanganui, stickability is something many businesses can hang their hats on.

Some of them are large operations, employing significant numbers of people while others are much smaller businesses, often owner-operated with maybe one of two staff on the payroll.

But what they have in common is an ability to go the distance, weathering all sorts of economic storms along the way to survive.

The reasons for that are manifold but their recipe includes hard work, a determination to succeed and an attitude which makes their business stand out.

They are success stories we should recognise and cherish because they have been the backbone of our city’s economy for decades, at the same time providing employment for workers and their families along the way.

And they deliver their service in a way that makes customers and clients go back for more.

If success is measured in longevity, then the businesses we’re highlighting in this special feature all have a strong vein of it running through them.

HOME SINCE – 1843 Kai Iwi dairy farmer George Handley is enormously proud of Whanganui and has just cause – his ancestors played a major role in developing the city.

It all began with the arrival of George’s great great grandparents John and Martha Handley in 1842.

Six months earlier they had settled in Nelson after moving from England, but the climes of Whanganui and prospects for the building contractor obviously had far more attraction.

John Handley became the first ever chairman of the then Wanganui Town Board, the local authority that preceded the city or district councils that rule today.

John and Martha settled and lived for many years on their beautiful farm Southern Grove in Rapanui Rd they had bought in 1853.They purchased a large chunk of farmland in the Rapanui area to add to large blocks they also owned in the Nukumara/Maxwell district.

The pioneering couple had 10 children and when John

and Martha sold Southern Grove to the Peat family, the land was subdivided into smaller blocks.

In 1905 John Handley’s son Samuel George Handley bought 103 hectares of Southern Grove and leased it to his son George Henry Handley.

He was a real pioneer and in 1928, according to the Farmland Co-operativesponsored book of family stories Celebrating Generations on the Land, established a milk bottling plant, “The Model Dairy”.That was eventually onsold and moved to Anzac Pde in 1937, the same year a young Raymond George Handley bought the farm off his father George Henry and continued to milk cows for town supply.

He lived on the farm until the ripe old age of 95.

In 1981 Ray’s son George Alan Handley (today’s George) took over the reins increasing the 140 cow operation to 300 which it still peaks at today.

George and his son Cameron run the operation today and Cameron’s son Samuel

George Scott Handley is already showing signs he is eager to continue the family business even though he is only weeks away from his first day at school at nearby Westmere School

House and the chapel, Big School and Harvey House at Wanganui Collegiate School.

While all that was evolving, the original pioneer John Handley had already cemented the family name in the city as a builder. His son Samuel George had married Agatha Meuli, daughter of one of city’s most prolific builders, Nicholas Meuli.

“I am passionate about the city. It has so much to offer.

We have many really good assets from our climate to our sporting venues, the river and top class education facilities.”

Among his many credits as a builder are the Royal Opera

“I am extremely proud of that heritage and love Whanganui deeply,” George said.

Combining those many assets, he said, should be a major attraction for people and industry to move to the River City.

3

Pride of Wanganui WANGANUI CHRONICLE 1856 This year the Wanganui Chronicle will be celebrating 160 years and is the oldest newspaper in the country.

It was on the 18th September 1856 that Henry Stokes, a local resident, published the first edition of the Wanganui Chronicle on a makeshift printing press, constructed locally from maire wood and iron, from premises in Taupo Quay. From those humble beginnings The Wanganui Chronicle has grown and prospered to become one of the most awarded daily newspapers in Australasia.

The Wanganui Chronicle is the dominant news provider for

McCarthy Transport

1949

Double S Motordrome

1981

the Whanganui district with 43,000 readers over a typical week. Digital advertising revenue continues to grow as the Wanganui Chronicle has the most popular local website averaging 100,000 hits and 21,000 unique browsers visiting wanganuichronicle. co.nz each week.

Amdram Theatre

1874

Robert Wheeldon Engineering

1991

Elizabeth Palmer Skin Care

1985

Strong Electrical Ltd (SEL)

1982

Rutland Arms Inn

1840

Hill St Greens

1982

Holdaways

1945

Wanganui Girls College

1891

Media in Whanganui is in an exciting phase with NZME unique in its ability to offer clients integrated media solutions including print, radio, digital and Grabone. No other media organization can match our reach and penetration into the Whanganui district including the city

Wanganui High School

1958

Skelsey Plasterers

1947

Pacific Helmets

1982

Land Meat

1897

Armstrong Barton

1907

Joe Lett

1982

Wanganui Garden Centre

1947

Visique Wanganui Eyecare has over 50 years’ experience in Wanganui and is the largest eyecare and eyewear enterprise in the city.

In that time they have seen eyewear move from the purely practical to an essential fashion accessory and eyecare become an increasingly medically-sophisticated section of any retail operation.

The business began in 1964 with Michael Webber in Ridgway St. Ross Hardey joined him in 1977 and developed a purpose-built optometry practice on Wicksteed St.

OVER

Ten years later the practice was large enough for a third partner, John Mellsop, to join, eventually replacing Michael Webber who retired, the business was rebranded Wanganui Eyecare to encompass all aspects of the business.

In the early 2000s there was another major change with Wanganui Eyecare partnering with internal brand Visique. It gave the business greater buying power, greater efficiencies in services and the ability to compete against national branded franchises while retaining the practice’s independence.

Es

YE

tab

ARS

6 l i s h e d 19

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Two stores one vision

211 Wicksteed St Ph 06 345 4665

97A Victoria Ave Ph 06 347 6072

With a mantra of refusing to compromise on customer service which built a loyal customer base, Visique Wanganui Eyecare continued to prosper. In 2004 Kerry Bennett joined and two years later became a full partner.

At this time eyewear was changing radically and becoming much more than a practical means of improving eyesight. Eyewear was an essential – and often glamorous and fun – part of fashion. In 2008 the three partners opened a retail outlet in Victoria Avenue, offering a quality of brands never before seen in the city, including Maui Jim, Ray Ban, Pucci and LAE Eyeworks.

Visique Wanganui Eyecare’s clinical experience and reputation in Wanganui now had a catwalk companion Eyes on Victoria.

The two practices, servicing customers living locally and around the greater lower North Island, are committed to providing the highest standard of eye care available with the very latest technology.

The managing partners of Ross Hardey, John Mellsop and Kerry Bennett have created and developed a business that employs exceptional staff, offers trustworthy and superior service and gives clients the best choice available. Its vision – to be the first choice for both professional eyecare and contemporary eyewear in the region.

4

Pride of Wanganui KOWHAINUI: A WHANGANUI ICON - 1965 Kowhainui Home’s connection with the Whanganui community remains strong, more than 50 years after the rest home and hospital first opened its doors.

After originally being opened in 1965 by a committee of Whanganui locals, Kowhainui Home is now run by Enliven, part of the not-for-profit organisation Presbyterian Support Central.

Enliven general manager Nicola Turner explains the land was donated to Presbyterian Support Central (PSC) by the Collier family.The building was then funded by the community and the home was run by the committee with the help of PSC. “Many of Kowhainui Home’s wings are named after people

and families who have made significant contributions to Kowhainui in some way or another,” says Nicola.

Kowhainui Home has undergone extensive renovations since opening in 1965. Kowhainui Home originally had 30 rooms and now has 79 rooms, each with an en-suite.

The hospital was opened in 1978 and it was then moved and renovated again in 1986. Extensive renovations were made between 2000 and 2002 to seamlessly join the rest home and the hospital.

“The home has changed a lot over the years. Even though it’s 50 years old it’s a very modern facility,” says Nicola.

Kowhainui Home A rest home with spark

An elder-centred community Kowhainui Home is special; it’s more than just a rest home. As well as providing daily living support we ensure residents have choice and control in their lives. We take every opportunity to bring companionship, fun and meaningful activity into the lives of elders.

Family and friends Kowhainui Home is like one big family. Residents are encouraged to invite their loved ones to visit at any time; there’s no set visiting hours.

And, for the children - we have a fully stocked toy box to keep them entertained!

Pets welcome We believe pets can be both calming and energising. So, we welcome animals at our home. If you have a pet that’s part of your family, ask us about moving to Kowhainui Home with them.

The social life At Kowhainui Home we support residents to continue doing the things they love in a way that’s right for them. The busy social calendar and stimulating recreation programme certainly make for a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

Rest home | Hospital level care | Respite | Health recovery Visit www.enlivencentral.org.nz or phone 0508 36 54 83

“There’s a lot of history at Kowhainui Home, many of the staff and residents at both the home and neighbouring retirement village have a long standing connection with Kowhainui, whether they’ve been involved in the committee or fundraising or they have had family members who have lived or worked there.”

“There’s always something interesting going on here. I like getting to know people and what they have done in their lives.There’s a great atmosphere at Kowhainui.”

Kowhainui Home currently has 104 staff, 35 of which have worked at the home for more than 10 years, while 20 staff members have been there for between five and 10 years.

Kowhainui Home provides rest home and hospital care, as well as short-term respite, health recovery and an engaging day activity programme.The neighbouring Kowhainui Villages provide independent retirement living.

Kowhainui Home healthcare assistant Kate Burnett, who is one of four healthcare assistants who have worked at the home for more than 25 years, says Kowhainui is a great place to be.

For more information about Kowhainui Home and Enliven’s full range of positive ageing services inWhanganui, free call 0508 ENLIVEN (that’s 0508 36 54 83) or visit www. enlivencentral.org.nz.

5

Pride of Wanganui JAMIE O’LEARY BUILDER 1976

KITCHEN CONTOURS 1985 David Mackay started Kitchen contours in Ridgway Street in 1985. He had previously been working as a kitchen manufacturer in Palmerston North and decided to come back toWanganui to try it on his own.

With a little bit of financial help from his parents he borrowed the $350 he needed to get started.This helped to get the basic tools and machines needed at the time and he was then able to secure a lease on a property in Ridgway Street, which just happened to be where he had completed his apprenticeship previously when it was the busy cabinetmaking shop of Dickson Display Co.

He started from scratch and took on any jobs that came his way and would do whatever there was to be done.

Now days with the technology, machinery and well laid out factory inWicksteed Street, they have really streamlined their operation, producing 400 kitchens each year with a kitchen leaving the factory every four hours on average.

David credits a good business with having a good team and over the years he has built this team of designers, estimaters, cabinetmakers, machine operators and installers.

Since starting in the building industry in 1976, Jamie of Jamie O’Leary Builder Limited has maintained one strong philosophy. “Enjoy what you do, that’s the main thing.” Producing quality work, having satisfied clients and maintaining a reputation for high professional standards all stems from this philosophy.

Working on new housing, light commercial and renovation work inWanganui area, Jamie along with his staff believe in being open and honest in their communication with clients.

It is a family owned and operated business with sons Anthony, and Daniel now having key roles, eventually

they will be the next generation to continue on the building business.

Jamie O’Leary Builders has been building in theWanganui area for many years and are proud to be part of the community, and proud of the contribution our building company has made to Wanganui.

After 40 years of building, Jamie stills enjoys each days’ work, meeting new clients, solving problems and helping to make their building project as stress free as possible. Our overriding goal is to provide Clients with a result that works for them, suits their requirements, and to realise their dream home.

FAITH CITY CHURCH

Although there has been an Assemblies of God (A/G) affiliated church in Whanganui since the 1930s, the current church, that is Faith City Church can trace it’s beginning to 1972. At that time Richard Louwrens and a small team came up from the Lower Hutt A/G to start a church, called the Wanganui Revival Centre, with one of the earliest meeting places being the Davis Lecture theatre. The church grew rapidly at this time and in 1975 moved to the Concert Chamber in the War Memorial Hall. In late 1977 a piece of land was purchased at the end of Springvale Road and the current building was designed and built during 1978 through mainly volunteer labour from members of the church. The building was opened at the very end of 1978 and was in use as both a church and small private school in 1979.

The name was also changed during this time to Faith Community Church.

Richard Louwrens left in 1988 and the role of Senior Pastor was taken up

by Rick Sutcliffe who remained in the role until 1992. From that time the Senior Pastor has been Iliafi Esera who came to our city after a decade pastoring the A/G church in Mangaweka. In 1995 the school, renamed as Faith Academy, became a state integrated school and from there has grown to a school of around 150 students.

WELCOME TO

FAITH CITY CHURCH A PLACE FOR YOU

BUILDING ON CHRIST

The church was significantly renovated in 2004 and it was soon after this that the name changed slightly to become Faith City Church with the school becoming Faith City School a few years later.

BONDING IN HIS LOVE

Today, Faith City Church is a vibrant multigenerational, multicultural community that gathers to celebrate their faith in Jesus Christ for 3-4 services each Sunday, while engaging our city through mission, youth and children programmes and partnering with local businesses and schools to meet the needs facing the community.

BLESSING THE FUTURE GENERATIONS

In 2015, Cliff Life Church was planted in the Castlecliff community with a leadership team that was sent from Faith City.

Faith City Church supports the Zest for Mission (City Mission) work on Victoria Avenue and is key leadership component of the Youth Of The Nation Conference, which draws young people from across New Zealand annually.

You are warmly welcome to join us this Sunday at either of our morning services at 8:30AM or 10:30AM and from the Sunday the 13th March for our 6:30PM evening service. For information on Bible Study groups, Youth and Children’s programmes, Men’s or Women’s ministry or gatherings for those over 50 years of age, please contact our friendly staff at the church office during weekdays.

SERVICE DETAILS 127 SPRINGVALE ROAD 8.30AM - 10.30AM - 6.30PM

Web:

fcc.net.nz

Phone: (06) 345 0265 Email: office@fcc.net.nz

WANGANUI’S OLDEST FAMILY DEALERSHIP. PROUD TO BE SERVING THE WANGANUI REGION FOR 53 YEARS.

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USED VEHICLES DEPARTMENT FULL FINANCE OPTIONS

VEHICLE SERVICE DEPARTMENT

PH 06 349 0930

PARTS DEPARTMENT

PANEL AND PAINT SHOP DEPARTMENT

82 Ridgway Street | Wanganui www.wanganuimotors.co.nz

7

Pride of Wanganui ANDERSON MEMORIALS - 1914 If ever a business inWanganui can point to a tangible sign of its enterprise, then Anderson Memorials is one of them. From the historic Heads Rd cemetery to the currently expanding Aramoho cemetery, and in cemeteries in neighbouring districts, headstones made by the company are there in vast numbers.

In May 2014, Anderson Memorials celebrated its centennial. Richard Anderson, grandson of the company’s founder, Andrew Peter Anderson, and although retired was still involved in the business. Today Tony Anderson, the great grandson of the founder, runs the business and still from the same Aramoho site where it all began.

That the company is at the top end of Somme Pde and right across the road from the Aramoho cemetery is more a matter of luck rather than management. Andrew Peter Anderson worked for a monumental mason striking out on his own, but a year after he started the business [1914] the cemetery was created. Some of the headstones in the old Heads Rd cemetery are his work.

The business spans ďŹ ve generations. It started with AP Anderson, his son Les [Richard’s father], then Richard and now Tony and his son Daniel. The business has branches in Palmerston North and Feilding and that spread has been responsible for its growth.

INGESTRE HAIR DEZIGN KATHRYN PARK

1985-2016

W

anganui has provided my family with a good living through various businesses here since the 1860's. My Great Great Grandfather established Armstrong's Forge on the now Wanganui Motors sight in 1865.

In 1985 I established my hair salon business in the old Bank of New Zealand building in the bridge block, under the name New Image.

In March 1987 I moved to the newly remodelled former Harold Hall Building which was called Park Lane Arcade. After this I returned once more to the Bridge block. In 1994 I purchased a commercial property at 68 Ingestre Street. A three storied beautiful Victorian Villa which was built in 1902. After completing restoring the building and adding my trademark black and white colour scheme, I decided to have a name change and the business became "Ingestre Hair Dezign".

The building housed my residence upstairs, my hair salon and four other business tenancies downstairs. After selling the building I remained as a tenant until 2007 when I moved to my present location at 1 Springvale Road. The cottage underwent a complete renovation and once again my black and white colour scheme, I decided to retain the name "Ingestre Hair Dezign". Going to a suburban location was a different challenge, but has proved a very successful move. It gives my clients a lovely relaxing, and homely atmosphere with very accessible parking. I have recently been joined

by Beautician Renata Thomas and in the near future would like to add a massage therapist into the business.

My greatest thanks go to my very loyal clients whom have helped to make my business a success over the past thirty years.

8

Pride of Wanganui WHANGANUI CHAMBER COOKS GARDENS - 1896 Cooks Gardens began being In the winter months it is the OF COMMERCE - 1885 home ground for the Wanganui used as a sporting facility Since 1885, the Whanganui Chamber of Commerce has served the needs of the Whanganui business community through its public policy and advocacy initiatives along with its business development programmes and services.

No matter what your vision is for the future of your business, the Chamber is prepared to help you achieve your goals and take your business to the next level.

The Chamber’s wide range of programmes and services will help you attract new customers, expand your business base, reduce your costs of doing business and assist with networks and

referrals that will further your business goals.

The core focus of the chamber is to be a strong advocate for business in the city, to make a difference in Whanganui’s future and to help Chamber members’ businesses grow.

Businesses from all over the Whanganui region belong to the Chamber. They range in size from sole traders through to national and global businesses. Business has changed enormously in the last decade – Whanganui’s market now is truly global which now means that any Whanganui business has the potential to take on the world.

in 1896. Since then Cooks Gardens has been the venue of a number of the world’s historic sporting occasions. One of these occasions was on 27 January 1962 when tens of thousands of spectators crammed into Cooks Gardens to witness athlete Peter Snell break the world record for the mile.

1946

Whitlock Freight

1987

Eastown Timber

1987

Cohens Business Centre

1975

Philp Wrights Fabrics

1959

Liffiton Castle

1980

propelled their growth and the staff numbers rose accordingly.

TRADEZONE INDUSTRIAL GROUP gives them the ability to compete with the bigger corporate companies while still remaining as an independent owner operator. Avon says “TRADEZONE INDUSTRIAL GROUP is the best thing that has happened to MCDONALD EQUIPMENT LIMITED. It allows us to participate in bulk buying deals and offer competitive promotions that we would otherwise not be able to do.

Plus getting to know 36 other store owners doing very similar styles of business is really valuable for information and problem solving. It adds huge strengths to us in so many ways”.

EQUIPMENT LTD first opened their doors on May 1st 1990.

The company began its first 6 years working out of the old Benchmark building in Heads road.

The product range was very much focused on Fasteners and welding products coupled with general engineering requirements such as abrasives and tools etc. Since day one they have stocked the widest range of fasteners in town and to this day continue to have the widest range available locally.

1996 saw the current warehouse being built with the doors opening after Labour weekend that year.

Moving into the new shop saw immediate growth take place and the staff levels gradually started to grow. A sales representative had been employed since 1994 to service the Wanganui and surrounding districts but in 1998 another sales representative was added and they started exploring the greater Manawatu area. This proved to be a very successful move and to date they still have a very busy sales representative covering that area.

1998 also saw the company join the newly formed TRADEZONE INDUSTRIAL GROUP. MCDONALD EQUIPMENT was a founding member. This really

There are two covered stands that provide seating for 3,500 as well as seating on grass banks around the ground. The stadium also hosts numerous athletic events.

Meteor Print/Commercial

MCDONALD MCDONALD EQUIPMENT LIMITED

rugby team that competes in the Heartland Championship against provincial teams from around New Zealand.

Wanganui and have since day one invested locally.

MCDONALD EQUIPMENT LIMITED supports many sporting bodies and community events with sponsorship every year. This is something that they feel very strong about. Businesses should put back into the community they live in.

MCDONALD EQUIPMENT currently employs 11 staff. When you ask Avon what he attributes the company’s success to, his reply is very straight forward, “great staff, great customer support, quality products and quality service. Plus we are on a continuous self improvement path. Look around and see what we have in this town? It’s pretty amazing what industry there is and it’s quietly growing.

MCDONALD EQUIPMENT is extremely proud to be located in Wanganui. We would also like to thank all of our supporters for the past 25 years”.

MCDONALD EQUIPMENT has continued to grow and offers some of the best industrial brands to the market. Brands like, KING TONY, POWERBUILT, TOPTUL, FULLER PRO, to mention a few for hand tools. Then the WELDWELL and EXCEL-ARC welding.

Industrial transmission brands, SKF BEARINGS and OPTIBELT (vee belts). Plus of course the huge range of bolts and nuts, Hi-tensile, Stainless Steel, and Galvanised, and all sorts of screws and washers. Avon and Vicki have a great belief in

362 Heads Road, Wanganui Ph: 0800 2800 44 | Fax: 0800 661 600 Email: mcdonald.eq@xtra.co.nz www.mcdonaldequipment.co.nz

3 GENERATIONS OF CAR SELLING FOR

Victoria Avenue David Jones Motors is a bustling family business that’s a household name in Wanganui. But it’s not just about creating a vibrant business.

They support the community through local events, clubs and organisations.

The recent expansion of David Jones Motors signals another milestone in the evolution of what remains a staunchly family-based company.

Cnr St Hill & Dublin Sts David Jones followed his father Doug into the motor vehicle business and set up what was then Rivercity Motors in 1984, starting with just 20 cars in stock. The company imported Japanese used cars, and in the 1990s demand increased as the economy recovered after the sharemarket crash in 1987. In 1992 they purchased Regent Motors Daihatsu and over the next 10 years the business grew. He then later renamed the business David Jones Motors.

The Suzuki brand came to the Avenue yard in 2002 and since then has been joined by SsangYong and LDV vans. Late last year they also bought two more brands, Honda and Nissan which is situated on the corner of Dublin St and St Hill St.

Richard, Nick, Gareth & parents Robyn & David Jones

Rivercity Motors 1980’s

349 1122

300 St Hill St, Wanganui

David Jones Motors

www.davidjones.co.nz

345 5115

276 Victoria Ave, Wanganui

10

Pride of Wanganui PETERS FASHIONS - 1936 The shop originally opened in 1936 as Keith Street Sample Rooms.

As the world was tailing off from the great depression in 1936 it was deemed necessary to carry absolute minimum of stock hence the name Sample Rooms.The proprietor of that time could only afford enough stock to exhibit by sample only and in turn people who were very patient and minimalistic of those years would happily wait for a garment or any other general Manchester item to be made or procured.The business traded in this way through the war years up until 1946 when it was relocated to its present address of 103-105 Glasgow Street and as it had a new owner it was aptly named Everett Sample Rooms.

Mr Everett owned and operated the Sample Rooms for 10 years thereafter with which it was placed on sale in 1956. James and Linda Peters purchased the store and then renamed it to Peters’ Sample Rooms.A short while later Morris (their son) and his wife Peggy bought into the business and operated it jointly seeing James and Linda through to their retirement. On a similar progression Malcolm (their son) bought into the business in 1990 taking full control in 1992. Subsequently in recent years thereafter the business was appropriately named Peters’ Fashions.

Peters’ Fashions employs four staff who have initiative based on a mutual outlook towards fashion.We encourage

all of our team to have an input into the stock we carry and feel that everyone’s perspective is a worthwhile contribution. The philosophy of Peters Fashions today is the thing that has never changed and that is to bring uncompromised value to its clients in service and in

Wanganui City College

1892

St Georges School

1927

Bank of New Zealand

1862

Andersons for Men

1984

Graham Bull Plumbing

1975

YMCA

1912

Taylor Engineering

1978

Aranui School

1965

The Grand

Hotel

Styling the community for 60 years

product over a comprehensive selection of exclusive labels.

Malcolm is still the current owner/operator of the business and with the help of Janine and their wonderful staff Jenny and Karen it remains a thriving business today that will be celebrating its 60th Birthday this year.

The Grand Hotel, a prestigious Wanganui landmark, first opened in 1927. Rich in history and atmosphere. Affordable accommodation in the heart of the city. The Grand Hotel attracts families, sporting groups, business people and leisure travellers alike.

Conveniently located just off the main street in Wanganui, and adjacent to Cooks Gardens Sporting Complex, the Grand Hotel has all the facilities and expertise to make your stay both enjoyable and successful.

ACCOMMODATION

Bed & Continental Breakfast $79 single & $99 double All rooms with ensuite Karen, Jenny, Janine & Malcolm

Cnr St Hill & Guyton St, Wanganui The Grand Hotel

06 3450955

the-grand-hotel@xtra.co.nz • www.thegrandhotel.co.nz

Cnr Glasgow & Keith St. PHONE

348 8306

HOTEL FOR SALE

This business is for sale - lease or purchase options available.

Contact The Grand for further details. Financial assistance possible

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7 Purnell Street, Wanganui 4500 | Phone 06 345 3145 | www.haprint.com

Entertaining Wanganui for 116 Years Learn more about this remarkable and unique building in a new book “Royal Wanganui Opera House - A Record Reign” by Penny Robinson.

Only $25

Available from our website or at the Box Office. www.royaloperahouse.co.nz Booking Office Hours: Ph. 349 0511 • Fax 349 0514 Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 10am to 12 noon

In 1897, a Wanganui Borough Councillor suggested setting aside land for a public opera house to commemorate the record reign of Queen Victoria. Three years later the theatre opened. Since then, travelling shows, touring artists and Wanganui residents have performed in this historic building, one of the few remaining Victorian-style touring theatres still in existence. Famous actors and singers have played the boards, others have had their start in Wanganui, and young folk and old gained skills backstage. Strongly supported today

by Friends of the Opera House working together with the Royal Wanganui Opera House Board and Whanganui District Council, the theatre is regularly used by residents, national and international performers.

27 years Located at 449 Heads Road, in the Castlecliff Industrial Hub, is a Wanganui company which has been operating since 1988. It’s had a few different names, and moved premises twice, but its family-friendly, loyal-to-thelocal-community philosophy has remained constant.

Ali Arc Industries Ltd began life as Ali Arc Engineering in Pacific Place, owned and operated by Robert Bartley.

Ali Arc Engineering acquired Tom Russell Sheetmetal Division in 1989, the company changed its name to Ali Arc Sheetmetal and extended its range of products to include general sheetmetal work and stainless steel and aluminium fabrication. To better distinguish the diverse range of services and products Ali Arc provided, the company was renamed Ali Arc Industries Ltd. Since 2011, Ali Arc Industries’ primary focus has been on servicing the vehicle industry. Specializing in aluminium vehicle frontal protection systems, the name Ali Arc Industries is now synonymous with nudge bars, bullbars and truck replacement bumpers.

The company started out with five employees, primarily manufacturing vehicle protection bars for light commercial utilities, and later progressed into the trucking industry, developing a wide range of heavy duty truck bumpers, bullbars and cab guards, specifically for the logging industry.

for the ‘Local and Loving it’ philosophy. Ali Arc Industries is part of the Bartley Group of Companies, employing 100 people locally across the various businesses, while 60 people are employed in Ali Arc’s Winnipeg manufacturing facility.

Ali Arc Industries is proud to support the local community, with main beneficiaries being the Women’s Refuge and Wanganui Rugby.

Animal Cages and Forklift Work Platforms provide supplementary work and keep the company’s 33 full and part time employees busy. Several employees have been with Ali Arc for more than two decades. The company strongly believes in assisting employees to reach their full potential, and offers numeracy and literacy training to encourage and assist with higher learning.

Wanganui’s central location enables Ali Arc Industries to service the whole country with relative ease. Overheads are lower than larger centres, enabling the business to remain competitive in the New Zealand marketplace. After 27 years in business, Ali Arc Industries could well be the poster company

Ali Arc Industries Ltd | 0800 4 bullbars | www.aliarc.co.nz

Established in 1972, Wanganui Plumbing is locally owned and operated and has been involved in all aspects of the trade for over 40 years.

We can easily be found at 168 Somme Parade, Wanganui, right next to the Aramoho Railway Bridge.

We Specialise In • Sheet Metal Fabrication • Flashings Made to Order • Heating & Ventilating • Plumbing & Drainage • Stainless Steel & Aluminium Welding • Water Softeners Supplied & Installed • Wood Fire Installation & Repairs • Jayline Wood Fires • Harris FlameTechnology • Flue Supplies & Repairs • Stainless Steel & Aluminium Welding • Fire Rope

Phone: (06) 343 9763 www.wanganuiplumbing.co.nz wangplumbing@xtra.co.nz

Shopping Centre – Wanganui’s Pride

fficially opened on Monday, November 6, 1989, Trafalgar Square was a first for Wanganui with its big “anchor stores” – then K Mart and Foodtown – and a variety of specialty stores to cater for every taste of the community.

The big shopping centre drew customers from afar, bringing people from Palmerston North and New Plymouth to sample the selection of shops.

Built by Girvan Corporation using McMillian and Lockwood Ltd as the primary contractor, project manager David “Taffy” Lewis tried to keep to Wanganui tradesmen when selecting sub-contractors for on-site work.

Trafalgar Square Shopping Centre 100 Taupo Quay, Wanganui phone (06) 348 0314 www.trafalgarsquare.co.nz

Work on the prepared site began on January 4 with a proposed completion date of November 7.

The centre was opened by Mayor Chas Pynter, a day ahead of schedule, with more than 28,000 people visiting for the first day of trading.

Now, 25 years later centre houses a total of 22 retailers within it’s 13,000 footprint and offers free parking for 460 customers. Two of the original stores remain; Wendy’s Supa Sundaes and Trafalgar Lotto.

The anchor tenants have changed however, originally Foodtown and K Mart, now we have Countdown at one end of the centre and The Warehouse at the other.

Other notable changes include the creation of the annex building housing Carpet Court, on the former site of the Criterion Hotel, Number 1 Shoes has also grown over the years taking over space where smaller shops once stood.

More recently we have seen the centre transform again with a new logo, upgrades to the bathrooms, the foodcourt area, and to the shopping centre façade along Taupo Quay with further modernization works planned for 2016.

The centre is now in its 27th year of trading and is a proud part of the Wanganui community.

14

Pride of Wanganui GRANGE TRANSPORT - 1894 The man who pioneered the transport of livestock by motor truck in the Wanganui district was Mr Alfred Henry Smith, of a formerly, very active Wanganui carrying firm whose headquarters was a rather quaint looking old wooden building that was located on Taupo Quay right opposite the offices of the New Zealand Railways Road Services.

Alfred thought that his firm was also the first to use a stock truck on the Parapara Rd. Victoria Ave was a sand track when Mr Alfred Smith Snr came to Wanganui with teams of horses to play a part in transporting materials for those who were constructing the railway line from Wanganui to Kai Iwi, up over the Westmere embankment from Aramoho and beyond.

The firm saw the transition from horsedrawn traffic on the roads to the use of the motor truck and Alfred Smith who died in the early 70’s could vividly recall the first ever load of livestock to be transported in the Wanganui area.

The company was an integral part of the Wanganui transport scene.

In the early 1920s it pioneered the carting of livestock by motor truck in the district when two loads of lambs were taken from the Whangaehu Valley to the freezing works at

Castlecliff, cutting what had previously been a three-day droving job down to three hours. The 18-year-old Peter Molan joined the firm in 1960 when he gained his heavy transport licence and staying on when two years later his grandfather retired and sold out to another local firm, Wallace Transport.

By 1989 it was also apparent that the yard at Flemington Road was not able to accommodate the growing number of vehicles so the shift was made to Westmere, where the previous Waitotara Council works depot was up for sale. This remains the company’s base today.

However, after Wallace became absorbed by the Atlas Freighters group in the late 1960s, Peter decided to strike out on his own, buying the Bristol Meats business with his wife Gael. After a while as the work started building up, Peter employed his first driver, Johnny Mair and soon after, Ray Stewart who is still employed today with the company.

The job done by the Molans in servicing their rural clients - carting produce out and staples in - is exactly the same as the task great-grandfather Albert Smith took on in 1894.

In 2007, Peter Molan’s son Brendon and his wife Jenny took over the business and Brendon is now sole director.

FAMILY IN BUSINESS FOR 122 YEARS GRANGE TRANSPORT LTD

Brendon Molan ... P: 06 345 8661 | F: 06 345 8770 | M: 027 276 4127 E: grange.trans@xtra.co.nz | State Highway 3, Westmere, Wanganui

15

Pride of Wanganui HARRISONS HIREMASTER - 1975 It all began as a bit of a gamble back in 1975 — a gamble that has paid handsome dividends creating a business that spans three generations of the Harrison clan.

The Harrison family operated four Four Square stores in the city and Bruce and Ann Harrison ran the Aramoho one but, after 12 years, they wanted a change and sold out.

The family owned property in Gonville and when developers bought that site, Bruce and Ann moved the old family villa to a section in Castlecliff.

While renovating and requiring materials they didn’t own, Bruce saw that there was an opportunity to open a hire centre.

They were still living in Aramoho and had a double garage on the property.They borrowed to the limit from the bank and started buying the gear to hire out.When it started arriving and all they could do was store it in the garage.With so much gear arriving their thoughts were, “ what have we done - we are just grocers”.

Harrisons HireMaster grew, but after about 15 years, it took another turn with competition buying up a lot of the smaller operators in the group. However, they stuck it out and a few years on, son Grant took over the business and proved he could make it work well. It’s now probably one of the bigger privatelyowned hire companies in the country.

Morrie Gibbons Signs

1959

Tasman Tanning

1953

Display Associates

1970

Brittons Housemovers

1957

Allan Tong

1945

Treadwell Gordon

1869

Dave Hoskins Carriers

1979

J Williams & Co

1911

Just Looking

1971

Cosmopolitan Club

1893

Horsley Christie Lawyers

1911

Moase Plumbing

1949

JRT Lawyers

1881

G Bristol & Sons

1931

Cleveland Funeral Home

1907

A B Kidd

1944

Matthews Roses Growing gorgeous roses in Wanganui for NZ gardeners since 1947

Visit our rose garden, 10 mins south of Wanganui on SH3, open to the public over the summer months.

Buy our roses online at www.rosesnz.co.nz Or shop at one of our exclusive stockists Wanganui Garden Centre.

Agents for all of the world’s top rose breeders, we grow the best new varieties.

Creating beautiful roses for over 20 years with Bob Matthews hybridising programme.

We are looking forward to celebrating our 70th year in business in 2017 Thank you to all our loyal customers for your support throughout the years.

Cath and Bob Matthews

16

Pride of Wanganui ID LOADERS - 1954 The civil engineering and earthmoving contractors take pride in their longevity of service supporting local companies for over 60 years.

Third generation and general manager Hayden Loader says there are a lot of businesses and people they have been involved with, and he attributes their ongoing success to the values of the company.

Those values were instilled in the company by founding father Ian Loader in 1954. Mr Loader died in February 2013, but the same values still under pin the business today.

It was Mr Loader’s pioneering spirit which started the business when he saw an opening for earthmoving.

LOCAL LOYAL & RELIABLE

He purchased his first bulldozer, the machinery of the day – an Allis-Chalmers HD5 – approached the-then Wanganui County, and said he was going to be a road builder.

Inspired by his passion to make a difference, the selftaught Mr Loader went to local road developers to offer his services; history was in the making.

those he employed became part of the loyal family.

Testament to the Loader values, some of those employees have been with the company for 40, 30 and 20 years.

Two of Mr Loader’s sons, Ian and Allan, have been with the company for more than 40 years. Allan’s son, Justin, performs the contract management role.

Loaders believe in doing things right which benefits their clients; loyalty begets loyalty, and when you’ve been around as long as Loaders and have the local knowledge, there is no substitute.

Brother-in-law Allan Chapman prices the jobs and tender work. With 45 years working for the company, his expertise and local knowedge is sought after by many industry professionals.

Family was important to Mr Loader and that is how he ran the business; with family and

Allan’s wife Lindsey is the compliance manager in the office.

Grandson Matthew has been working for three years in Christchurch on the drainage rebuild with a mixed crew of eight from Wanganui and Christchurch.

Hayden returned from Wellington 10 years ago and took over the GM reigns six years ago. Hayden’s mother, Lorraine, also works in the office and Allan’s sonin-law David Benefield is operations manager.

The company also has ACC tertiary level accreditation ensuring health and safety for all staff.

Hayden says they lead on all fronts. “Our point of difference is quality, not just the cheapest, a fair job for a fair price.”

Specialising in: • Section Development • Site Work • Drainage • Road Building • Hydro Excavation • Digger Hire

LOADERS

172 Ridgway St, Wanganui. • Ph 348 9034

17

Pride of Wanganui WANGANUI RUGBY UNION - 1888

PALMERS PLUMBING & HEATING LTD - 1945

TheWanganui Rugby Football Union was formed on April 11th 1888, celebrating its 125th Jubilee on Queens Birthday weekend in 2012.

The business began as Palmer and Ryland in 1945 by Bob Palmer and his good friend Harry Ryland after their return from serving in the RNZAF where they repaired aircrafts. Palmer and Ryland started their business in the premises of a Blacksmith shop in Ridgway St and after a few years purchased their workshop opposite Merewether Motors.

The Union’s history contains a number of remarkable rugby successes including three Championship victories in the National Division 3 competition and four Meads Cup Championships in the Heartland competition – with the most recent being just last October 2015.Wanganui has competed in 27 Ranfurly Shield matches with one scheduled againstWaikato on the 6th of August 2016.

TheWanganui Union is one of the most wide-spread of any of the Provincial Unions in the NZR ranks, stretching fromWaiouru and Ohakune down to Marton and up to Waverley.Thirteen Clubs participate in the Premier & Club competition covering the Northern, Rangitikei & Metropolitan areas.

We continue to focus on Community and Club Rugby and strive to perform with excellence on and off the field.

It is an honour to be associated with such a passionate sport with such important history in our Community.

Year

2006

2007 2008 2009

2010

2011 2012

2013

2014

2015

Placing

2

2

2

1

7

5

1

1

1

2

In 1971, Harry Ryland decided he’d had enough and retired, the name was changed to R & N Palmer Ltd.A few years later Bob Palmer passed on and his son Nelson was left to run the business.Around this time Nelson became interested in selling plumbing fittings and fixtures and opened a

showroom in the Ridgway St premises.This another name change to Palmers Plumbing & Heating Ltd. A modern plumbing showroom, office and workshop was built in 1987 inVictoria Ave and this was home for 20 years where Malcolm and Neville, Nelson’s sons, moved into management roles after having served their apprenticeships.

Lifestyle, a new generation and family focus led Malcolm and Neville to shift from Victoria Ave to their present day premises at 27 Heads Rd. With 10 fulltime staff under the manager Neville, there is a wealth of experience to go along with the friendly staff.

CREATING

LEGENDS FOR OVER YEARS

HEATING Woodburners, Gas Heating PLUMBING Stormwater, Spouting, Flashings, Roof Repairs, Drainage, Digger work, Drain Machine, Pipe Shorts, Solar Hot Water

Proudly servicing the region for

www.wanganuirugby.co.nz

70 years..

27 Heads Road, Wanganui.

Ph 345 5891 - Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

18

Pride of Wanganui B BULLOCK - 1928 A HISTORY OF SUCCESS Bullocks is undoubtedly one of Wanganui’s most long-standing and well-known contracting companies.

The company was originally established as B.Bullock and Co Ltd in 1928 by the late Ben Bullock, who purchased the assets of Gordon Park Quarries Ltd. He was soon joined by two brothers, the late Charles and the late Jack Bullock, who became shareholders. Ben’s sister, the late Ellen Lockett, worked in the office during the company’s formative years and also invested in the fledging business.

While wood and coal sales were a major part of the business in the early days, todays Bullocks is highly

diversified and has interests in road construction (ISO 9001 certified), drainage, property development, timber processing, aggregate production, transport, Ready Mix concrete, fencing supplies and retailing.

MAJOR PROJECTS HELP GROWTH

Bullocks has been involved in countless construction projects over the past 88 years. Some of its larger contracts have included the metalling of the Rata Flats, a ballast crushing contract for NZ Railways at Taumarunui, major drainage works at Ohakea, plus many local roading contracts including the challenging Bruce Road upgrade on Mt Ruapehu and more recently the Putiki roundabout upgrade.

One call - One solution ... for 88 years!

B.BULLOCK (2009) LTD Taupo Quay Phone: 06 345 8569

Staff numbers reached a peak of 120 during the early 1970s, when Bullocks was involved in the construction of Waipipi Ironsands near Waverley.

Today the company employs about 35 staff and is still owned and operated by the Bullock family.

The company employs several working shareholders and boasts a loyal core of experienced and skilled contracting staff.

Bullocks has the ability to turn its hand to just about anything and is the first choice of

many customers in the region wanting quality materials and contracting services.

Extremely proud of its contribution to the development of Wanganui, Bullocks is looking forward to another 88 years of progress.

“The company is still family owned and diversity has been the key to its success,” contracts manager Glen Bullock says.

“Over the years we’ve done all sorts of things and we keep looking at all sorts of diversifications to make it work.”

19

Pride of Wanganui MEMORIAL HALL - 1960 On a cool, crisp ANZAC Day morning in 1960, the Wanganui War Memorial Hall was officially opened as a living memorial to the 375 men and women from Wanganui who lost their lives in the Second World War and thanks to the support of the local community, through fundraising campains and various donations, The Wanganui War Memorial Hall opened debt free.

Originally known as the Wanganui War Memorial Hall, they have recently rebranded to become the Wanganui War Memorial Centre (WWMC). The WWMC stands as a prominent figure in Queens Park and is considered to be

one of the finest examples of New Zealand modernist architecture, rating in the top 1,000 modernist buildings in the world and the top 50 in the southern hemisphere. The design resulted from a national competition, organised by the New Zealand Institute of Architects in liaison with the Council, which attracted 42 entrants. The winners were Newman, Smith and Greenhough, New Zealand graduate architects who were based in London at the time. In 1961 the building design was awarded a Gold Medal from the New Zealand Institute of Architects and received a 25 year award from the Institute in 1997. The

design, based on modernist concepts, has had a major influence on architectural development in New Zealand and is recognised

in architectural and conservation circles, being registered as a Category 1 Historic Building (registration number 7442).

Wanganui Veterinary Services

1947

Silvesters Bags

1950

Crombie Lockwood

1978

Collegiate Motor Inn

1972

Whiteout Maintenance

1990

Larsens Concrete & Drainage

1930

Wanganui Collegiate School

1852

Wanganui Racecourse Wanganui Jockey Club

1848

Silks Chartered Accountants

1904

Sewell & Wilson Chartered Accountants

1919

Strath Davis

1966

GDM Retail Systems

1978

100 Year’s Service to Wanganui & District

We are proud to be part of the local community and we appreciate the local community is a part of us!

Generations of shoppers have found us to be their store of choice for home furnishings.

Also, generations of employees have devoted their working lives to our company.

Consistently, the business has remained a locally owned and operated enterprise.

The company originated from a group of tradesmen combining to make and supply furniture directly to the public. It developed in scale to wholesaling and supplying commercial furniture throughout the southern half of the North Island.

Later popularization of wall to wall carpet became an opportunity for the company

Est. 1916

to become strongly involved.

Supply and making of curtains and blinds completed the total home furnishings package on offer.

So now, although not actually manufacturing furniture, we continue to specialize in customizing wall-to-wall floor coverings as well as made to measure curtains and blinds in our own in-house workrooms.

Furniture and beds are also more often than not made to customers own requirements.

Additionally we carry out repair, renovations and recovery of your own special pieces.

And so the story of Wanganui Furnishers continues….

Later this year, Wanganui Furnishers is officially celebrating 100 years in business.

33 Victoria Ave • Ph: 345 4554

Established by Theodore Jurgens in 1962, we are now one of New Zealand's longest serving demolition companies.

Based in Wanganui, Jurgens Demolition are a third generation family-run demolition company. We work all over New Zealand and have recently relocated some of our skilled team to Christchurch due to the high work volume.

Our long serving employees combine over 150 years’ experience between management and senior staff members.

All Jurgens staff are Site Safe Certified.

Scales House This large six story building was located on a main thoroughfare in the Christchurch CBD which had to remain open to the public at all times throughout the demolition. This required immense forward planning and constant management of our critical path.

We want to be sure that everyone knows what is required in order to keep our team and our clients safe from potential harm. The combined industry and family experience of the Jurgens team means you are in good hands at all stages of the demolition process.

We specialise in large industrial demolition and undertake projects of all sizes including internal and partial demolition projects.

A great diversity of equipment enables Jurgens to undertake all facets of demolition and deconstruction works

Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament The iconic Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, also known as the Basilica, was an extremely difficult, high profile project.

Jurgens Demolition worked closely with the principal contractor, Naylor Love Construction, to protect the historical and emotional significance of the site and its belongings.

www.jurgensdemolition.co.nz

103 Manuka Street, PO Box 281, Wanganui | Tel: (06) 344 7926 Fax: (06) 344 6048 | info@jurgensdemolition.co.nz David Jurgens 027 4437 000

Aaron Jurgens 021 744 108

Cameron Jurgens 021 711 635

using the most cost effective and efficient methods possible.

The past year, Jurgens Demolition relocated to Wellington and have been working on projects in conjunction with LT McGuinness Building Contractors.

These include two very high profile projects, Kirkcaldie and Stains revamp for the introduction of the David Jones Department Store to New Zealand and the high profile Cuba Dixon Project.

These are just some of their nationwide projects.

Makarewa Freezing Works Demolition for the Alliance Group of their Makerewa Beef Processing Plant in Invercargill. This consisted of multiple 4-6 storey structures and was undertaken while a fully operational venison plant continued it's daily operations.

OUR FAMILY LOOKING AFTER YOURS FOR OVER 40 YEARS Dempsey & Forrest was established by Bill Dempsey and Bill Rodgers back in the 1930’s in Victoria Avenue and was known as Dempsey & Son. The company was taken over by Alex and Jack Dempsey and moved to its present site in 1969.

In 1974 the Forrest family purchased the company.

Since then the site on the corner of Guyton and Hatrick Street has changed considerably.

1980 saw the sonstruction of the Forrest Lawn Chapel which features a cascading waterfall as a backdrop.

At the end of 1995 the company built a unique Lockwood catering lounge known as the Forrest Lounge and there is nothing quite like it in the country r to date.

Jim Forrest wanted the public to come out of the Chapel area and enter into a totally separate building and feel at ease with a lounge that was not connected to the workings of a funeral home.

Funeral serv r ices are an important occasion whether the serv r ice is religious or not, it should provide the opportunity for family and friends to share special memories as well as to acknowledge the life and accomplishments of the person.

As professional funeral directors, Jim, Paul, James, Julie, Fleur & Marty have many years of expertise, they can suggest and discuss ways in which to personalise and add special touches to the funeral serv r ice including Horse Drawn Carriages.

Our team of dedicated, experienced and compassionate professionals are here to help you through the toughest times in life.We take care of everything, leaving you free to celebrate the life of someone special and focus on what really matters. Call us any time, we’re here to help.

Phone 349 0202 • www.dempseyandforrest.co.nz

RIVERS IVERS SP PEED EED & SP PARES ARES L LTD TD

CELEBRATING 26 YEARS

A

passion i ffor making ki things go fast has been Grant River’s man ntra for years, ever since he was a small boy in factt. And tha at desire sees him rack up a quarter of a centuryy as owner of a Wanganui business that has earned resp pect and a name around the country for its mech hanical exxpertise.

But while Rivers Sp peed and Spares is recognised for this auto excellence, Grant ha as never given up on a loyal customer base who use his company fo or everyday car maintenance and repairs.

Closing in on 55, Grant servved his time in Wanganui before seeking out work in general engineering to broaden his scope. That was befo ore he made the decision to go into business on his own account in 1990.

He says he loves evverything about cars and that’s why Rivers Speed and Spares is stiill going strong at its Hatrick St workshop.

“I like the normal service work and meeting people. A lot of my customers have been with h me since the beginning. But my passion is going fastt and mak king things go fast,” he said.

Wanting to make things go o fast and being able to make that happen takes a partticular skill and few have it. Grant has got it by the truck-load. His work kshop is full of engines which find their way into cars for circuitt racing or hydroplanes for highspeed racing on watter.

He’s been involved in drag racing and his son and daughter Adrian and Nicole have follow wed in his footsteps. While no longer driving at the e drag strrips, he still keeps his hand in at th he wh heell off his Viva in ciircu uits around the country.

“The kids are doing the dra ag raciing wh hile I do the tuniing which I love. There’s nothing g better than seeing that dragster go down the track and set a national record.

22

Pride of Wanganui HISTORY OF MAINSTREET The concept of a Mainstreet organisation forWanganui was first discussed in the late 1980s.

To say thatWanganui’s City Centre back then was tired and moribund would be painting a rosy picture.Wanganui was about to get a new shopping mall adjacent to the main retail street.At the same time, there had been business creep from the main shopping district to newer and more advantageously rated areas of the city.With a static population the city centre was losing out.

The first step for Wanganui’s Mainstreet movement was to recognise that if something was not done, the Central Avenue district would decline and eventually die. Mainstreet Wanganui arose with support from the Retailers Association.

Council was to spend money to refurbish and upgrade the main shopping precinct and retailers wanted to be involved. The result was what was then and remains one of the best central city upgrades in the Country.

Mainstreet Wanganui may have begun as a lobby group but today it is a thriving organisation that, while continuing to lobby on behalf of retailers, has grown to encompass promotional activity, events, central city maintenance, gardens and ongoing beautification projects. All the while continuing to ensure that Wanganui’s central city remains one of the most admired in New Zealand.

STEELFORMERS 33 YEARS IN BUSINESS Steelformers is an independent roofing manufacturer and is 100% locally owned and operated by the Back Family. Steelformers is Taranaki and Whanganui’s largest manufacturer of roofing and wall cladding products.

The company was founded in Stratford in 1983

by Darrell Back, who had a 10 year background in rollforming with Popes of Stratford. Steelformers has continued to grow throughout the years, investing in new equipment to ensure customers only need one choice for roofing and rainwater products.

IN THE LONG RUN IT PAYS TO GO WITH THE LOCALS Wanganui Steelformers Wanganui’s only manufacturer supplying roofing to Wanganui people.

• • • • •

Colorsteel Zincalume Galvanise Longrun Flashings Roof Installation

Wanganui Steelformers 380 Heads Road | Ph (06) 344 5142 Freephone 0800 800 077 backyclan@xtra.co.nz

SERVICES

Mainstreet offers a range of services in the CBD that generate a moderate amount of revenue to help fund our annual costs. These include using our expertise to assist with delivery of public parades and marches, selling banner advertising sites across Victoria Avenue, putting up and taking down advertising flags around the city and managing use and bookings of Majestic Square.

COMMITTEES

Mainstreet Wanganui has 3 governing committees that ensure the ongoing success of the organisation. These committees are all made up of volunteers.

Design and Heritage Committee This committee is concerned with the longevity of our unique heritage assets and the application of good urban design in our CBD. The committee is made up of building owners

and developers, architects, engineers and historians.

Business Promotions Committee This committee is responsible for the creative direction of the annual promotions calendar and seizing ongoing marketing opportunities for our town centre.All members are welcome to attend these meetings which are notified in the Mainstreet newsletter.

Mainstreet Executive The executive is responsible for the stability of the organisation and the strategic strength and direction. The executive is mostly made up of individuals from the above two committees.

WANGANUI IN BLOOM In summer the CBD buildings, lamp posts and arches are adorned with hanging floral baskets.

These baskets are paid for via the CBD rateable levy with some additional monies from general rates.

23

Pride of Wanganui DIMOCKS - 1950 Maurice Dimock was born in Hawera in 1925 and as a kid experienced Depression times and the hardships they brought to a family.

In 1950 Maurice decided to have a crack on his own account, opening Dimocks Electrical with a small shop on the corner of High & Argyle streets in Hawera, an electrical contracting and repair business with a modest retail showroom.

In 1954, Maurice moved to premises in Union Street.

Taking on whiteware however meant that the Union Street shop was now far too small and a move was made to central High Street around 1956 with Norge washers and dryers, Miss Simplicity wringer washers and Husqvarna sewing machines added to the range with a service department “out the back”.

Dimocks Appliances would flourish on this site for the

next 20 years before a new purpose-built shop was opened further west along High Street in 1980.

TV allocations call for lateral thinking. Bonaire Industries had been established in late 1955 and by 1962 their freezers were well established, winning export awards and showroom space at Dimocks.

From being a “one man and a boy” band, Dimocks was now a eight-person enterprise and Maurice took great pride in his electrical apprentice programme, one which, over the years, would eventually see 20 newly qualified electricians in the field, including his two sons, Wayne and Royce Dimock.

With product lines expanding, much more space was required and Dimocks shifted to its 5th home, large premises also in High Street.

At this time, Royce Dimock and his wife Carol saw an opportunity in Stratford and

in 1989 opened a second Dimocks store, complete with a technical department providing service support and electrical contracting to the town.

after Wayne’s departure, as a sales and delivery person in Hawera, working and learning for a year or so before he and wife Megan purchased the Stratford Branch.

In 2002 Royce and Carol saw opportunities in Wanganui and co-opted Retravision’s CEO, Leighton Cox, to assist in evaluating premises. “We found a great building at 190 Victoria Ave Street but thought we could never fill it.

Leighton was adamant that this was where we needed to be for the future and urged us to sign up, so we took the plunge.

In 2011 Matthew became a registered heat pump installer and now does all installs for the group. Simultaneously he started training to pass his electrical registration.

“We invested heavily in stock in but found we still had plenty of space at the back which we utilised by adding furniture under the RTS brand of Furniture Court.

Now it’s really too small, such has been our development in Wanganui, but at present there’s nothing better available so we just bide our time.”

In 2006 Wayne and Anita Dimock sold the Hawera business to Royce and Carol.

Enter the third generation into the fold. Matthew Dimock, son of Royce and Carol, joined his parents soon

Meanwhile back in 20072008, the Hawera shop was simply too small for the expansion strategies being worked through, including furniture, and was tripled in size by the acquisition of a clothing shop next door.

Dimocks 100% Appliance, Beds R Us & Furniture are now part of the nationwide Beds R Us Group and LAZBOY Gallery Franchise and have now been part of the Taranaki and Wanganui landscape for well over 60 years. Royce and Carol are quick to acknowledge the importance of a good relationship with both customers and suppliers.

And as Royce Dimock says in closing, there are no plans to leave any time soon: “We’ve been here for over six decades – we’re here to stay!”

Beadles Panel Products

1907

B Pull & Son

1988

Suzuki NZ

1984

City Furniture Exchange

1914

Molten Metals

1986

Castlecliff Golf Club

1925

Wanganui Insurance

1983

Todd Upholstery

1979

Josephite Retreat

1949

DIMOCKS

& FURNITURE

We Stock

Sleepyhead Beds, La-Z-Boy Chairs, Bedroom, Dining & Lounge Furniture Fisher & Paykel • Westinghouse Electrolux • Panasonic • LG • Beko • Samsung Interest Free terms available. See instore for details www.dimocksfurniture.co.nz

DIMOCKS

190 VICTORIA AVE, WANGANUI PH 06 348 4877

32 NELSON ST, HAWERA PH 06 278 0216

& FURNITURE 62 REGENT ST, HAWERA PH 06 278 8080