CRAFTY BUSINESS RETAIL PROFILE:
going against the tide
CELEBRATING BUSINESS EXCELLENCE:
Naturally Organic Limited Turner’s Panelbeating and Carpainting Limited PROJECT SPOTLIGHT:
Goodman Group’s Orchard Park Development, Albany MASTERING THE ART OF:
Making an Impression Overseas FUTURE LEADERS:
Celebrating Our 2013 Head Prefects
CRAFTY BUSINESS Inside
10,450
Feature Interviews
with Local Business Leaders
10,450 copies posted and distributed to Businesses North of the Harbour Bridge.
March 2013 - Issue 10
Out & About on Business
on the Shore The Business Channel is published bi-monthly, 5 issues a year – March, May, July, September and November.
Published and printed by
Feature Columns
from Business Specialists With support from
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International Freight & Shipping With Oceanbridge
Dean O’Cass is CEO with Oceanbridge Shipping in Takapuna. Oceanbridge is one of NZ’s premier freight & shipping companies, privately owned for 30 years and based in Takapuna. Email: deano@oceanbridge.co.nz
Border Control Can be a Complex Business! All the effort and expense to freight goods internationally can quickly be eroded if customs and quarantine issues arise. Whatever the country of origin you are purchasing goods from or shipping to there is a need for the cargo to be approved by a Customs authority, cleared and finally allowed to be released to you or your customer overseas. It is basically the role of the New Zealand Customs Service to enforce or assist in the enforcement of a wide range of regulations on behalf of the government, its various departments and collection of revenue such as GST, duty and so on. If you are an exporter then each shipment must have a Customs Export Entry completed before the goods are approved to be exported and this must be done before the vessel or aircraft that the goods are travelling departs. Without this the cargo cannot be moved out of the country. Then once the goods land at the country of destination then that country’s rules and regulations will apply and these vary greatly. At the time of selling your goods to a company overseas then this is the stage that the ’shipping terms’ are agreed and who will be responsible for what part of the process. If you are paying for the goods to be Customs cleared and delivered to the door, then your customer can advise what may be needed or a freight company who has the experience and contacts in each country. (It would be wise to ask these questions before the goods leave NZ if you are a first time exporter or entering a new market) When it comes to importing goods into NZ then the Customs side is very important and there can be high sums of money involved that you will need to pay NZ Customs – certainly GST must be paid based on 15% of the value of the goods you are importing. In addition to the GST you may need to pay duty and other charges and what you will pay depends on numerous factors and these rules are constantly changing and being updated.
In brief the things that need to be considered when importing and what Customs Brokers handle and look for are: • Correct duty rate that needs to be paid • What classification your cargo needs to be declared under. • Are the goods for personal or commercial use? • Does a duty concession apply for the goods being cleared in full or part? • Do the goods fit into the various Free Trade Agreements that NZ has and also currently working through? • Any royalties’ payable of goods such as licensed products. • Are the NZ quarantine requirements being met? • Documentation is received in full and in accordance with the various NZ agencies. Customs brokerage is a profession that takes many years of training and experience to have the detailed knowledge involved in the Customs Tariffs and other complexities. Your ‘broker’ becomes involved in your business in detail and gets to know your products well and can act as a vital advisor for costing purposes, what you need to be aware of or indeed areas that may have benefit to you through a lowering or lifting of duty as an example. When freighting goods there is certainly the cost to sea or airfreight the cargo but the Customs Clearance & Brokerage fees paid based on the value of the cargo is very small considering the amounts involved if wrong duty rates etc. used and the cost to you or your customer – not to mention the experience that you have working for you.
Visit: www.oceanbridge.co.nz
Oceanbridge is your globally connected logistics partner empowering business growth.
Auckland | P: (09) 489 6070 | F: (09) 489 6071 E: calw@oceanbridge.co.nz | www.oceanbridge.co.nz
Issue 10 - March 2013
THE BUSINESS CHANNEL
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Out & About On Business On The Shore
Wine-Tasting at Jerry Clayton BMW TBBA invited family, business colleagues and friends to Jerry Clayton BMW on February 13 to sample a selection of Obsidian Wines, matched with delicious foods prepared by Ali Yildiz from Caffe Massimo. Guests were also introduced to Nina Englert GM of NZ BMW.
Dave Donaldson, Nina Englert (GM BMW), Steve Hilson, Peter White
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Our next issue MAY 2013 Published early May
Land Development Consultants -
Issue 10 - March 2013
Project Managers -
Advertising Booking Deadline is Friday April 5th
For more details contact:Aidan Bennett, Ph 021-500-997 Email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Out & About On Business On The Shore
North Harbour Club hosts PM John Key The North Harbour Club hosted Prime Minister John Key for his first State of the Nation address for 2013 in late January at North Harbour Stadium. This was also the first of the club’s popular Lexus of North Shore sponsored Charity Lunches for 2013. The big crowd was joined by a large sector of the media keen to hear the PM’s plans for 2013. Dave Donaldson, Rod Slater.
Chris Hollister, Roger Middleton, Chris Howell, Kevin Mclean, Lyndon Settle.
Peter Clague, Steve Jurkovic, Diana Patchett, Adam Heath, Brendan Kelly.
Roy Trimbel, Jim Huse, Alistair Davis, Mark Jago, Bob Jago, Peter Menzies.
Martin Lawes, Lynda Mann, Maurice Stack, Darrel Kinghan.
Ralph and Penny Roberts, Avril and John Ryan.
Dustin Bisschoff, Andy Jones, Dallas Bennett, Aidan Bennett, Ngaio Merrick, Graham Blackall.
Liz Capovilla, Beulah Thomson, Daniel Coulson, Sue & Trevor Stanaway.
Mark Horner, Max Burney, Tessa Hubbard.
Tarryn Belingham, Peter and Jayne White. David Brook, Carol Lepupa, John McLeod, Tony Fairfield.
Therese and Peter Russell.
Cindy Jeon and Jim Huse.
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Issue 10 - March 2013
THE BUSINESS CHANNEL
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In The Business Channel
Celebrating Local Business! Welcome to our first issue of The Business Channel for 2013. The first of five we will publish in 2013. The Business Channel is published with the support of ATEED North and is distributed via post to business people in the North Shore and North Harbour area. The aim of the magazine is to highlight the good things happening in the business world north of the Harbour Bridge. The months we publish are March, r I caught in mid January! How good is this 18 pounde May, July, September and November. From an advertising perspective, if you are looking to target business tricks, especially a 50 year old who has been people in our area then this is one of running the same business for almost 25 years! the best options. Feel free to contact me direct if This programme involves me joining with 24 you are interested. other business owners – from just about 25 We’ve got some great reading in this issue. I different industry sectors – in a three day loved putting together our cover story about Crafty business boot camp (once a month for five Knitwits. Retail is such a tough game these days, months) where we live together and interact so it is refreshing to discover a story of success. with the help of facilitators and business The internet and changing buying habits are specialists to gain skills to help us improve our making things harder for retailers, but those who respective enterprises and the way we manage are giving their customers the experience that they them. The Icehouse is an innovative business are looking for are doing well, and Crafty Knitwits is initiative that operates in conjunction with one excellent example. As you will read, Linda and Auckland University. In addition to the OMP they Kerry have created a destination store in suburban run Achieving Business Growth Workshops; Milford by giving customers exactly what they Leadership Development Programmes; Owner want. Operator Programmes; Business Coaching; Maori In this issue we also highlight two further local Business Programmes; as well as Hatchery, businesses who won categories in the Westpac Market Validation and Incubation Programmes Auckland North Business Awards presented late for Start-ups. Visit: www.theicehouse.co.nz. last year. These pieces done by Catherine Murray It’s fascinating. I plan to keep those interested on Turners Panelbeating and Naturally Organic are informed on my progress over the next few great reading. Two completely different businesses months through this magazine and Channel achieving great things. magazine, the local North Shore monthly I’ve been working on polishing my own skills to magazine we also publish. run a business recently. During February I started a five month course with The Icehouse Owner Enjoy your March issue of The Business Channel. Managers Programme (OMP). It has pushed me a little outside of my comfort zone and will continue - Aidan and the team at Benefitz to do so over the next few months. It is probably Email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz good to challenge yourself like this every now and Twitter: @AidanLBennett / @channelmag then. They say it is hard to teach an old dog new
Inside this is sue… 1 International Freight & Shipping With Oceanbridge 4 Out & About On Business On The Shore 8 ATEED News 9 Mastering The Art Of… Dealing With Difficult People 10 ATEED News 12 Feature Business Success Story: Crafty Knitwits 14 North Harbour Business Association 16 Westpac Auckland North Business Awards 2012: Winner Profile – Naturally Organic Limited, Eclipse Recruitment Excellence in Workforce Development Award 18 Channel Business Spotlight: Barfoot & Thompson Commercial North Shore 19 The Brand-building Column with Creative HotPot 20 The Legal Column With Schnauer & Co 20 Project Spotlight: Goodman Group’s Orchard Park Development, Albany Supplement: Colliers North Shore Commercial and Industrial Selection 35 Education: Peter Clague, Kristin School 35 Talking Trusts: Tammy Mcleod, Davenports 36 Westpac Auckland North Business Awards 2012: Winner Profile – Turner’s Panelbeating, Flintfox Excellence in Information Management Award 40 Building & Construction With Phil Brosnan 41 Intellectual Property Law: with with Ruth Skinner, Davenports 42 Feature: Our 2013 School Head Prefects 47 Accountancy 48 The Alternative Board: Successful business owners know who to talk to 50 Banking with BNZ 52 Wines With Liz Wheadon, Glengarry Wines 53 Corporate Apparel and Promo Items: Davis Doherty Corporate Apparel Superstore 54 Upcoming Events & Important Dates
COVER PHOTOGRAPH: Linda Geor of Crafty Knitwits, pictured in her Milford shop.
The BUSINESS CHANNEL is printed five times a year by Benefitz, PO Box 33-1630, Takapuna. Telephone 09 477 4700, www.benefitz.co.nz. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. For further details on the magazine please contact one of our team detailed below.
Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Ltd www.ens.org.nz / Ph (09) 354 0059. Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Ltd is an Auckland Council organisation, which incorporates the business of Enterprise North Shore and a number of other development agencies. For further information please go to www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Aidan Bennett Publisher/Advertising
Ulla Bennett Advertising/Photographer
Jared Trice Graphic Designer
DDI: 477 4701 Cell: 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz
Cell: 021 411 667 ulla@benefitz.co.nz
DDI: 477 4707 jared@benefitz.co.nz
Dustin Bisschoff Web Designer/Manager DDI: 477 4711 dustin@benefitz.co.nz
The entire content of this publication is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise – without the prior permission, in writing, of the copyright owner. Colour transparencies & manuscripts submitted are sent at the owner’s risk; neither the publisher nor its agents accept any responsibility for loss or damage. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may occur.
Issue 10 - March 2013
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ATEED News
Chris Lock.
A message from Chris... It’s been an outstanding summer of sunshine and outdoor activities around Auckland, so it’s understandable if there’s been very little time to focus on your business’ goals for the year. It’s never too late though and the team at ATEED is ready to support you in whatever direction you are heading. From our new office in Constellation Drive and a satellite office in Orewa, there are plenty of business support programmes offered by ATEED for Auckland companies, including local business awards, mentoring, research and development funding, networking events and funding for training. We are here to support all businesses no matter what size or stage of development. The 2013 Westpac Auckland North Business Awards launch this month at special events in Albany and Silverdale. Any business wanting to find out more about the awards is invited, and like the awards programme, attendance is free. We’ll have past entrants talking about the many and varied benefits they’ve received through entering, including increased publicity, valuable feedback from the judges, and even winning an award or two. It’s definitely worth coming along to find out more. Information on the awards, and all other ATEED business support programmes, can be found on our new website; www. BusinessAucklandNZ.com. Launched late last year, the website is a great introduction to what ATEED can do for your business, so I encourage you to check it out. Enjoy.
Chris Lock. Acting Manager Business Growth – North Email: chris.lock@aucklandnz.com
Kick start your new business The New Year is a popular time for people starting their own business, according to a local programme that assists start up ventures. Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED), which runs a monthly Starting off Right workshop, says at the start of every year it sees a rush of people signing up to its programme, and 2013 is no different. The free workshop helps new ventures to prepare for the realities and requirements of being their own boss. ATEED’s Acting Manager Business Growth – North, Chris Lock, says: “The programme is a great way to investigate if your business idea has merit, before you even open the doors. It covers the common pitfalls of running your own business, legal requirements and risks, and basically gives potential owners a solid grounding in starting up on their own.” “We’ve had strong registrations for our first few workshops again this year. We believe this is linked to people reassessing their future over the summer period, and a desire to work for themselves. Small businesses are the backbone of New Zealand’s economy, so it’s great to see new ventures getting off the ground,” says Chris Lock. The comprehensive four-hour workshop is run by an experienced facilitator and addresses basic business tools including financial obligations, sales and marketing, business planning and risk management. It is also provides an opportunity to network with other start up businesses. “We’re looking at introducing guest speakers to the programme this year, covering crucial business skills, like networking. This will add even more value to this essential programme,” says Chris Lock. Anyone considering starting, or who has recently started their own business can register for the Starting off Right programme. For more information visit: www.BusinessAucklandNZ.com.
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Issue 10 - March 2013
Mastering The Art Of…
Mastering the art of…
Making an Impression Overseas
For many businesses, the ultimate goal, or at least an important step, is to make the leap from success on home shores to taking on the world. Exporting opens the door to limitless global markets and is often talked about as the primary means for New Zealand’s economic success. So, when you are first dabbling in a new overseas market, how do you make the right first impression with potential business contacts? Are there tricks of the trade to kick start your business’ entry into a new country? Well, there is no one right answer, but we’ve pulled together some tips to get you started: 1. Know your market – While you know the lay of the land at home, expect that the new overseas market will be different. Make sure you have background information on the economic trends, government influences, and makeup of any new market that you are approaching with your business. 2. Know your customer – On a similar note, it’s important to know the characteristics of your typical customer base. That way you can market and promote your product to the right audience. Don’t assume your customers will be similar to those in New Zealand. 3. Speak the lingo – Being able to converse with new business contacts in their own language, even if it’s just basic greetings, will help to build rapport and smooth the way for negotiations. Never assume they speak fluent English and hire a translator if necessary. 4. Be polite – There’s a lot to be said for politeness, especially in the business world. Unfortunately, what we deem as polite in New Zealand does not always ring true for other cultures. Learn the common customs and politeness in your target country. 5. Be prepared to pitch – Once you know about your market and its culture, be ready to pitch your company with enthusiasm, passion and solid knowledge while being able to do so knowing the deal you want to make and what is in it for them. 6. Be an ambassador – New Zealand generally has a great reputation overseas. Be able to talk about New Zealand as a tourist destination as most clients are keen to visit. This will help build rapport, encourages visitors to our fine shores and leaves a good overall impression.
7. The Kiwi factor – Here’s a little known secret that can open the most unexpected doors, just because of our nationality. Because Kiwis are seen as friendly, even slightly cheeky, making a bold approach can sometimes pay off. For example contacting a high profile CEO directly, rather than going through the normal channels, can sometimes get you that elusive meeting you’ve been hunting; all because you played the ‘naïve Kiwi’ card. However, you can only pull this off once with each contact. At your meeting you’ll be expected to be professional, engaged and knowledgeable about your product, business and how they would benefit from working with you. 8. Research everything – Know trading relationships and logistics basics within your target country. 9. Wine and dine – Be prepared to entertain your contacts in the appropriate manner to their business culture. Whether it’s playing golf or dining at top end restaurants, allow sufficient funding to make this happen. 10. Use referrals – Always be able to produce referrals, case studies or references that could help them make better, faster decisions to buy your product. While not a complete list, these ideas should help you to hit the ground running overseas. Remember, you can’t make a first impression more than once, so make it count. For more information on exporting, or assistance with business growth, contact Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED). With a team of experienced growth specialists and free to low-cost programmes, ATEED is available to help all businesses. Visit: www.BusinessAucklandNZ.com Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development offers programmes and services designed to support the growth of your business. For more information visit: www.ens.org.nz or call (09) 354 0059.
Issue 10 - March 2013
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ATEED News
The 2012 Westpac Suprem e Bus Services Limited. The award iness Excellence Award went to Recreational was presented by Ian Bla Recreational Services Ma naging Director Brett Turner ir of Westpac (left) to (rig Recreational Services dire ctors Paul Broom, Keitha Tur ht). Also pictured are ner and Natalie Turner.
Business Awards:
Will You Accept the Challenge? All Auckland North companies are being set a challenge - enter the local business awards and see your business standout. With the official launch of the 2013 Westpac Auckland North Business Awards at two events in Albany and Silverdale this month, organiser Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) is encouraging local businesses to follow in the footsteps of previous entrants.
Each business has had its own unique story to tell and entering this competition is a great way to share it. “Hundreds of wonderful local businesses have thrown their hat in the ring over the past 16 years,” says Chris Lock, ATEED’s Acting Manager Business Growth – North. “Each business has had its own unique story to tell and entering this competition is a great way to share it. “It’s a win-win for businesses that enter as not only are they in line for awards, but they get an insight into their strengths and weaknesses by completing the entry process, and benefit from constructive feedback from the judges,” says Chris Lock. “There’s a multitude of reasons to enter, all businesses need to do is accept the challenge.” The Auckland North awards are open to all businesses that fall into the area stretching from the harbour bridge to Te Hana, and across to Kumeu. With past awards winners including EasiYo, Happy Pawes, AFT Pharmaceuticals, Naylor Love Construction, Federation Clothing, EcoPro Cleaning Co, Apollo Entertainment and Navman New Zealand, history shows that the awards attract a diverse mix of businesses, all with a desire to succeed and epitomise excellence. For more information about the awards, or to register to attend the free launch events this month, visit: www.BusinessAucklandNZ.com/awards
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Issue 10 - March 2013
Businesses are invited to free launch events to find out more about entering the awards. Albany Awards Launch Date: 14 March 2013 Time: 5pm – 7pm Venue: North Harbour Stadium, Stadium Drive, Albany Silverdale Awards Launch Date: 20 March 2013 Time: 5pm- 7pm Venue: Silverdale United Rugby Football Club, 6 Hibiscus Coast, Silverdale RSVP at BusinessAucklandNZ.com/awards or contact keri. hickmott@aucklandnz.com, phone (09) 354 0059
2013 Awards • • • • • • • • • • • •
Westpac Supreme Business Excellence Award Best Emerging Business Small Business of the Year Medium-Large Business of the Year Excellence in Leadership Excellence in Strategy and Planning Excellence in Customer Engagement Employer of Choice Excellence in Innovation Excellence in Social Responsibility and Sustainability Excellence in Exporting Excellence in Research and Development
ATEED News
UP COMING
Networking Events Business Owners’ Forum This bi-monthly session is popular amongst local business owners looking to network, hear interesting guest speakers and pick up new business contacts. The free evening sessions cover different topics each month aimed at boosting business prospects. The Business Owners’ Forum is designed specifically for growing small to medium businesses, so it is not suitable for one man operations or business consultants. This is an invitation only event. For your invitation visit: www.BusinessAucklandNZ.com Upcoming forums: • Thursday, 18 April 2013 • Thursday, 20 June 2013 • Thursday, 15 August 2013 • Thursday, 17 October 2013 • Thursday, 28 November 2013 Previous topics have included: • Why do businesses stop growing? • Managing risk • How to reward your team • Being a good employer • Conflict resolution • Effective communication • The role of advisory boards • Cashflow when times are tough
Business Excellence Network This popular breakfast event offers networking opportunities for medium or large businesses operating in Auckland North. Every second month, more than 170 local business owners and senior business managers gather for breakfast to network and listen to a prominent keynote speaker from the New Zealand business community. Upcoming events: • Wednesday, 8 May 2013 • Wednesday, 3 July 2013 • Wednesday, 4 September 2013 • Wednesday, 6 November 2013 Sponsored by ATEED, Westpac, BDO and Schnauer & Co, the breakfast events cost $67.50 per person or a discounted season pass is available. For more information or to buy tickets visit: www.BusinessAucklandNZ.com
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Issue 10 - March 2013
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Feature Business Success Story: Crafty Knitwits
SS E IN S U B Y T F CRA
going against the tide By Aidan Bennett Our customers range from knitters, quilters, crochet and stitch-craft people to people who just want to darn their socks or fix something on their boats. One day is never the same as the next. We get so many people visiting us from all over the world. You might think ‘ho hum’ a wool/quilting shop – not so – this is very diverse and interesting! And we really have been welcomed and supported in Milford. It’s nice to be part of such a wonderful community. AB: Where do you think you got the skills from to launch and grow a business like this so effectively? LG: Well, I have learned a lot from being in the corporate world and from managing significant projects and that has certainly helped with set up. Kerry and I both have very clear belief in customer service, consistency, listening to our customers and I think our Norwegian (Viking) genes kick in with hard work ethic and no fear of taking on challenges. The key is we are very passionate about what we are doing, and we have a belief if we can launch and grow the business in the current economic climate, then the hard work will pay off as the economy improves. We have taken risks to back ourselves. We are also constantly learning!
Linda Geor.
It is no secret that the retail game is becoming more challenging by the day due largely to the growing significance of the internet which is changing the buying habits of the masses. Throw in the soft economic times of the past four to five years and the retail picture is not a rosy one. There are those, however, who are proving that it is still possible to grow retail businesses. One such business is Crafty Knitwits, based in Milford. This business – that essentially sells wools, fabrics and related products – was launched by Linda Geor and her sister Kerry Bowles back in early 2010. Linda had been made redundant from her 20 year career in corporate insurance and was keen for a change. The two sisters were keen to go into business together, with their initial thoughts being a cafe. But determining the financial viability of cafes proved to be difficult due to the way financials were presented. One day Linda was walking through the Milford main street – the seaside village is just a short distance from her home base in Rothesay Bay – and spotted the prime site on the corner of Kitchener and Milford Roads. It had previously been the home of a real estate office, and for a short time a pop-up clothing and homewares store. Immediately Linda believed the site and location would be a perfect for a wool shop. That is how the idea for Craft Knitwits was conceived. Almost three years on the business continues to grow. 11% in the past 12 months. It is firmly going against the tide. I have watched with interest as Linda and Kerry have mixed what I would term good old fashioned business principles with modern methods to ensure more and more people keep coming through the door. On the face of it hard work, active marketing and promotion, engaging with the community and having a good online presence appears to be the key ingredients. They have created a destination store. I put some key questions to Linda Geor in late February, just as she was about to expand the business into the shop that had become vacant next door. AIDAN BENNETT: You really look like you are enjoying the retail business? LINDA GEOR: Yes we really do enjoy retail. I guess we just don’t view our day as purely retail. We obviously sell all day, but we also offer advice on products and techniques to use to get the best result and we meet so many interesting and talented people. So our day is filled with creativity and challenges.
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Issue 10 - March 2013
AB: Do you rely on any key business mentors or professionals to help you? LG: No one person in particular. We have friends who are successful in business so we listen to them. We have also found it extremely helpful belonging to the Milford Business Association. The networking, sound advice and support from this type of organisation is really valuable. AB: You appear to be strong on engaging with the community and are also prepared to spend money on marketing? LG: Interesting, I interpret marketing as meaning... spelling out out your promises and then delivering. So yes we do spend money on advertising and that is part of our marketing strategy. Delivery and customer satisfaction, repeat custom and positive word of mouth play an equally important part and with the type of business we have engaging with the community just comes so naturally as an integral part of who we are. We have our annual Knitathon which has turned out so much bigger than we originally thought it would. We have over 200 people involving themselves in a 48 hour nonstop knitathon, raising funds for Child Cancer. We Raised $13,000 last year and our target this year is $20,000. Amazing contributions from people including local Milford businesses who really put themselves out to be involved. We have formed a committee this year to help manage this initiative as it really has turned into a huge event. We have ladies ringing now asking for the date of the knitathon so that they don’t book their holidays to clash. Also a group from Howick are going to book a local motel so that they can quickly go and have catnaps between knitting sessions – quite amazing and yes this does create goodwill. Our sales for that weekend take a bit of a dive, so that is our contribution to a really worthwhile cause and we believe the community recognise, appreciate and support us as a result. AB: Purchasing must be an important part of your business. Do you have any special formula for this and are suppliers easy to work with? LG: Mmmm, well Kerry and I always joke about how incredibly good we are at buying – well spending money that is! We have learned some huge lessons on this journey, and in this regard we now always consider new suppliers but we have to
limit the number we deal with as it just becomes too hard to manage. We have a few unwritten rules...we only buy what we like, not what our suppliers like. We have found through some hard lessons that we sell product that we really like and believe in. We do get great support and advice from our suppliers. We now trust our own gut feel more and if in doubt when buying leave it out. AB: You have embraced technology with the use of a sophisticated looking Mac computer at the counter and you have a great looking website with online purchasing. Has this been easy to implement and is online becoming more important for you? LG: Anyone from my corporate past will know i just like to use technology to aid the process of delivery. The freedom of r. Kerry Bowles and Linda Geo being able to implement technology as an important part of our customer delivery outside the constraints of a corporate environment has been quite refreshing. In saying that I have a full appreciation of implementing carefully and while we have a wonderful relationships and highlight exciting products and creative ideas. Apple Mac and have implemented the ‘Lightspeed’ point of sale system, we We are open to learning and in this regard listen and take on have not yet fully implemented every facet – so much to do and so little time! board good advice, we still have so much to learn! But we have managed to implement Lightspeed to the point where we can The best advice we can give is: Identify your customer’s needs; Ensure you fully serve a customer anywhere in the shop without them having to come up to utilise the hours in the day to be open for retail – remember you are paying the counter using ipads and wireless eftpos systems. We think that is pretty rent 24 hours seven days; Be consistent with good service; Don’t just wait for good for our type of business! customers to walk in... invite them with ideas and action, consistent advertising Yes we do have a great website. However the goal is to web enable the point backed with excellent service; Introduce positive change regularly to keep of sale system so that it is fully integrated so when purchasing online, it is the customers interested; Enjoy what you are doing... it makes a difference. same experience as being in the store. I would say none of it is easy and there is a lot to do yet before we are fully utilising the systems that we have. AB: What are your plans for the future? The website is important though. We sell more knitting needles than yarn LG: We still have so much to do to reach our full potential. Our aim in the online. I think people like to touch yarn, pick it up and feel the texture. We plan immediate future is to see a full on destination shop achieved, be fully web to keep developing our website as it is a great marketing tool and we do sell enabled, fully staffed. Then Kerry and I only working three to four days a week quite a bit of yarn to people overseas. with buying trips to Europe. Yes we will enjoy reaching those goals! AB: What is the aspect of running your own retail business that challenges you the most? LG: Oh the accounting side is the most boring and tedious part. Kerry and I work in the business and on the business. We are managing and doing every facet of our business function. There are no departments, cleaners or accounting clerks. That is the most challenging thing – trying to do everything. But that will change as we reach our goals. But we love the creativity and we believe in what we are doing.
DID YOU KNOW?
Worldwide fraud costs 5% of revenue to business each year.
AB: You are currently expanding into the shop next door. What does this involve? LG: Our initial vision for this corner of the world was to provide a wonderful haven for people to come and be inspired. To relax and lose themselves a little in the colours and textures of yarn and fabric and in this regard people spend quite a bit of time in the store taking in the colours, exploring the textures and reading through the patterns that can help them create wonderful things. We want to add to this experience by providing a menu of High Teas for them to choose from and enjoy with their friends and relatives. So they can sit amongst the yarns. read the patterns and enjoy high tea at the same time. It all fits so well. So in the new space there will be product but also a wide choice of types of High Tea. High Tea with champagne through to retro High Tea, funky High Tea and of course coffee as well.
PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS Learn how to protect your business and your assets – prevent, identify, resolve internal fraud. NHBA is proud to be able to offer this opportunity in conjunction with Translegal Services NZ Ltd, experts in this field
AB: Do you enjoy being in business with Kerry, your sister? LG: Yes we are a good balance. Quite different in our approach to big picture and detail but most important we have the same beliefs and values and are very passionate about what we are doing. We work well together. AB: Do you have any advice for those who want to grow their retail business in a similar fashion? LG: We think we have progressed this far through clearly identifying what our customers want/need. This means looking at service delivery ethic, right products to meet or create demand. Creating good will is important in our business and we enhance delivery of our retail experience with classes and groups that help to form lasting customer
Guarding Against Internal Fraud Date: 27 March, 12.30–2pm Venue: BNZ Partners Centre, Level 3, Building 1, Candida Office Park 61 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland. RSVP: anna.crane@nhba.org.nz or 09 968 2222 Two people free for NHBA member companies ($25 per person for guests and non NHBA members). Numbers are limited, so reserve your place now.
Issue 10 - March 2013
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North Harbour Business Association
Helping Business
GROW
One Voice – opens doors One Voice – keeps your business moving One Voice – reduces crime One Voice – gets noticed North Harbour Business Association delivers programmes which support business and property owners within the red shaded area shown (on the map - opposite). Outside of this area, business cannot benefit from our ONE VOICE FOR LOCAL BUSINESS. We think this simply doesn’t make sense. We know that all local investors and business owners want: • Access to people who are making the decisions which affect their bottom line. • Access to those building the highways, motorways and public transport systems • Access to those who are responsible for keeping our environment safe, attractive and efficient. • A strong and consistent ‘crime is not ok’ message delivered – backed up by training and support to reduce risks. • Simple and cost effective access to more customers • Access to skilled staff If your business or property is within the green shaded area, you are being given the chance to gain ALL the benefits of your location and to enjoy the advantages, and access to the NHBA programmes, your neighbours have had since 2008.
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How can NHBA help? • We get heard by Auckland Council, Auckland Transport and national government. So make sure your opinions are included in our representations, and help shape the future of your business environment. • We deliver services that have real tangible value – we will help fix parking and deliver you practical tools to reduce crime. • We will work with your staff, suppliers and neighbouring businesses to keep business moving. If necessary, we bring the key partners together to improve access to your business. • We read the volumes of local government policy so that you don’t have to! We want you to be aware of changes which will affect your cost of business. Through one strong voice, we lobby to reduce costs – or to at least make sure they are fair. • We connect you with new customers through business breakfasts, luncheons and our annual Expo. • We provide access to personal and business development, to enable even more growth and success for your team. We work with the universities and training providers – to give access to skills and knowledge, relevant for businesses in North Harbour. If these services are important to you, simply act and give us a bigger voice, a louder voice for business. Vote YES when you receive your North Harbour Business Improvement District Expansion Ballot Paper, by post. The voting period is 8 April and 29 April 2013. Make your voice heard. To find out more, either give Janine Brinsdon – NHBA’s General Manager. Call 09 968 2222 or 021 212 4942 or look online: www.nhba.org.nz/togetherstronger
Together We Will Be Stronger The close working relationship between Auckland Transport and NHBA allows members to have direct contact and identify concerns with Auckland Transport, in the knowledge that a programme of transport solutions is being delivered over the next few years. The aim is to keep business moving. Matthew Rednall, Community Transport Manager, Auckland Transport.
This is the best expo we have attended in terms of quality leads and visitors. Well done. David Brash, Telstra Clear.
The frequent targeted crime prevention seminars, e-shots, burglary follow-ups and CPTED appraisals are just a few examples of how NHBA continues to provide real value and support to its members and also the NZ Police in the prevention of crime within the Albany community. Constable Tane Dyer, Albany Community Constable, NZ Police.
Associate membership has provided us with valuable networking opportunities with other local businesses. We also value the seminars that NHBA puts on for our team to attend. Help with improving parking is a key area for us. Having NHBA help with this is a main reason why we will vote yes in April. Lisa Hill, Eclipse Recruitment Ltd.
I had a problem with freight vehicles damaging my property and contacted NHBA. They visited me and have worked hard to find solutions.
Local businesses are increasingly interested in developing effective business connections and networks. Such connections become increasing important for the efficiency and growth of business districts and the larger the network, the more effective it will become. In this respect, business associations are important for their local knowledge, relationships and their understanding of the regional business environment from a local perspective. Asindependent bodies, business associations provide an essential role in being a single voice to represent the needs of local businesses through core Council strategies and plans such as The Auckland Plan and the Economic Development Strategy. In turn, advocating for benefits for local business and property owners. Mayor Len Brown, Mayor of Auckland.
We were having problems entering/exiting our premises due to poor visibility. NHBA responded very promptly, reviewed and submitted a compelling case to Auckland Transport to look at the issues and come up with a solution. Phillip Dowling, Nero Italia Ltd.
NHBA’s many initiatives are of tremendous value to our business. The Business Breakfasts, Business Expo afford us wonderful networking and business-building benefits, while the Crime Prevention Initiative is of huge value in ensuring our security. We are proud to be a Gold Sponsor of this excellent organisation and encourage all businesses to be active participants in their events. Chris Cooke, Speedy Signs Albany.
Richard Higham, Hi-Q Electronics Ltd.
Issue 10 - March 2013
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Westpac Auckland North Business Awards 2012:
Winner Profile – Naturally Organic Limited,
RGANIC GROWTH
Nurturing a Healthy
Nestled in central Albany is a store that has just celebrated a significant milestone – 10 years in business. Naturally Organic Limited prides itself on supplying organic produce and products, teamed with exceptional customer service. Owners Neil and Karen Thomas have grown the business from a simple warehouse operation to a thriving retail store and website, and were recently winners of the 2012 Westpac Business Awards for Work Force Development. Catherine Murray caught up with Neil at the Rosedale Plaza store to discuss how Naturally Organic is reaping the efforts sown over the past decade.
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It was a combination of the need for a lifestyle change and the seed of an idea planted in the mind of Neil Thomas some 14 years ago. Being in the wholesale produce industry at the time, Neil was quick to extensively research and develop the idea of supplying organic produce to the customer in a cost effective way. “Karen originally started the business in a warehouse at the end of Rosedale Road. We set it up with coolers and packing tables, and got our friends to start buying the organic produce from us. We were just sending the produce out; we weren’t set up as a retail store.” As the word-of-mouth travelled, people started to visit the warehouse, expecting a retail store experience. “To meet demand we opened up for selected days and times, but to be honest it wasn’t really working. An opportunity came up for our current building as it was being built, so we decided that we would sign up and purchase the building. Nine months later we opened the store in February 2003.” Naturally Organic started with 6-8 staff in those early days, and now the number of staff is 14, increasing to 18 in the busier times. The growth in the retail store is matched by the growth in their online store, which accounts for around 30% of the total turnover. Each week 3500 items are available to customers, and there is a team dedicated solely to processing Internet orders, 5 days a week. Naturally Organic’s foray into the world of online shopping began earlier than most businesses, thanks to a helpful family member. “We were thinking about how to speed up the ordering process without manning the phones all the time, faxing, and manually punching in the orders when the opportunity came up to develop an online store as a trial,” explains Neil. Fast-forward several years and it’s now time to update the website to meet
Eclipse Recruitment Excellence in Workforce Development Award
Business Naturally Organic Limited the demands of the ever-discerning customer. The soon-to-be-launched new website will provide online customers with the same product details that customers who visit the bricks and mortar store can see on the product packaging. “There are a lot of websites out there that are actually difficult to buy from,” says Neil. “The less clicks you need to make a purchase, the better. Customers need to be able to go to a website, log in and start buying straight away.”
We have noticed a change in the way customers are buying. They’re actually spending the same amount, but they are being very careful. Neil says that customers of Naturally Organic are educated in their own needs, and often do their research before purchasing. “Those customers that shop with us all the time understand and know the products – they have a fair idea of why they are shopping here. It’s all about getting the new customers onboard. It’s easy to lose customers when they are looking online for a product and there’s just not enough information available. Information is what people want from our type of product; knowledge is everything.” While the recent recessionary times have not gone unnoticed, Neil says it pays to stay aware of the purchasing behaviour of your customers. “We had a time where the business plateaued, and that’s quite dangerous because the bottom line costs do come up. We have noticed a change in the way customers are buying. They’re actually spending the same amount, but they are being very careful. As a result we are very particular with our grocery lines, managing them so they don’t get over a certain threshold unless we know they are going to move. We monitor our high price items, and anything new we are very dubious about.” The seasonal forces of nature provide another test of the business’ strength. “I’m a butcher by trade, then I went into produce as a broker, so I know all about the fresh parts of wholesale - how it all works, what to expect, and how to deal with it. We sell a lot of produce through our store, and people like that it is fresh and there is lots of variety. One of the biggest challenges is being able to get produce all year round. We haven’t had cauliflower for months! When you’re eating our produce, you’re actually eating in season - we’re not trying to manufacture or extend our produce.” Last October, Neil, Karen and their team were winners of the Westpac Business Awards for Work Force Development, and finalists in the Excellence in Customer Service category. Winning the Work Force Development category was a bit of a surprise, admits Neil. “I thought our application
Naturally Organic Ltd won the Eclipse Recruitment Exce llence in Workforce Develop Award. Neil Thomas of Natu ment rally Organic accepted the award.
included ideas that, to us, are just common sense. We work in a great environment, and everyone in the business gets on really well. I don’t think that there’s much we do that is out of the ordinary; then again, it’s great to be recognised and we obviously displayed the traits they were looking for.” As with all successful businesses, Naturally Organic has established several points-of-difference that set them apart from their counterparts. For example, providing customers with bulk packaging of products such as sugar and rolled oats. “This saves the customer from buying the smaller retailer packs from the supermarket, and it’s great to give customers a better offering when you can.” Naturally Organic is a balance, says Neil, between providing their customers with options when it comes to their health and lifestyle and running a successful and growing business. “Sometimes it’s about doing what the supermarkets don’t do, like having people answering the phones and talking with the customers about the products. Other times it is about being like a supermarket, where business is a bit more cut-and-dry. At the end of the day, we are a business, here to make a living.” Visit www.naturallyorganic.co.nz
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Channel Business Spotlight: Barfoot & Thompson Commercial North Shore David Mayhew (right) and agent Tim Bibby at the old bowling alley site that is being developed into a medical centre on Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna.
Success for Barfoot’s Commercial Team Barfoot and Thompson’s North Shore Commercial division has been getting some pretty impressive runs on the board in recent months. The office is now led by David Mayhew – a member of the well-known Shore rugby and medical family – who took over the role in 2012. The Business Channel’s Aidan Bennett caught up with David Mayhew in his Hurstmere Road office in mid-February. For a vertically challenged individual, interviewing David Mayhew is quite a daunting task. He’s a big lump of a lad, huge, a former rugby union lock who played five seasons for North Harbour, club Rugby for Northcote and played professionally for Blackheath in the UK. But the Rosmini old-boy is a super friendly and warm fellow who – after the big handshake – very quickly makes you feel right at home in his tidy and organised office. It will be 12 months ago next month that David Mayhew took over running the Barfoot and Thompson Commercial operation north of the Harbour Bridge. He has a strong commercial background. He worked in London and Sydney in corporate finance (with ABN AMRO, ING Barings and Credit Suisse First Boston), spent five years with Bayleys Commercial North Shore and a similar period with global property service company Jones Lang LaSalle before moving to this role at Barfoot and Thompson. “It was a thrill to be asked to take on this role in my home patch as I know the market pretty well,” explained David Mayhew. “It is a very comfortable fit given that Barfoot and Thompson have such a long history, celebrating 90 years this year. They are such a big part of the community. I am thrilled that as well as being the major sponsor of Auckland rugby that they are also supporting Harbour by being a jersey sponsor (David is a board member at Harbour Rugby). It is a great company to be associated with.” Shortly after taking the reins, David was joined at Barfoot and Thompson North Shore Commercial by office manager Kate Bilham, who had previously worked in a similar role for quite a few years at Colliers North Shore. “Like me, Kate has a great deal of experience in the local market and has proven to be an excellent addition to the team,” says Mayhew. There is a team of 18 at Barfoot and Thompson North Shore Commercial. An experienced and professional team of agents, with
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over 300 years of combined expertise covering all fields – including development, commercial, retail, industrial property sales and leasing, as well as investments and business sales. The team also includes two Asian agents as well as two recent property graduates from Massey University. The office has been operating exclusively as a commercial branch for 15 years. Some of the runs on the board alluded to at the start of this piece have come from Tim Bibby, one agent who is enjoying a great deal of success as part of the Barfoot and Thompson North Shore Commercial crew. It was Tim who put together the deal that has resulted in Smales Farm developing the well-known bowling alley building in Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna. As a result the building will soon be home to one of the Shore’s leading medical centres. “This project resulted from the amalgamation of several GP practices and the need to relocate them to one site,” explains Tim Bibby. “Their desire was to be with associated and complementary service providers such as pharmacy, radiography, physiotherapy etc. This results in a one stop integrated medical centre with easy access and parking, and transport access.” “The brief I was given was to locate a large site, preferably ground floor or with easy elevator access, and a high ratio of parking available and good public transport connections. There were also geographic limitations as to how far from their existing sites the practices could be relocated. Numerous possible sites were located and evaluated. The Fred Thomas Drive site was chosen and detailed negotiations ensued.” Tim worked with Daniel Henderson of Smales Farm – in this case Fred Thomas Drive Investments – to put together a deal that worked for all. “The result is the removal of the old bowling alley which creates the required parking and strips the building back to its original structure,” adds Tim. “A major upgrade of services, facilities and the building façade will result in a fantastically presented integrated healthcare facility. The businesses are due to relocate and commence practice on the site in quarter three of this year.” In late February, Barfoot and Thompson agent Elaine Tutty also completed the sale of the AMI Building at 529 Lake Road, Takapuna – further success for the office. Barfoot and Thompson, North Shore Commercial Branch, 87 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, Phone 09 489 3880 or email: d.mayhew@barfoot.co.nz or visit: www.barfoot.co.nz.
The Brand-building Column with Creative HotPot
Ron Davidson is a Brand Strategist and Ideas Person who has created, nurtured and/or reinvigorated many of New Zealand’s most successful and enduring brands. Ron is our Brand-building contributor to the Business Channel and can be found at www.creativehotpot.com or on (021) 674138.
How do I go about creating a strong and compelling brand for my business? Understand customer needs and wants. Leave your office, get out amongst them and listen carefully. Because often it’s not about what you say, but what you hear. To be really successful you have to offer a product or a service that people want to buy. Sounds simple – but it is a fact so often overlooked. Know The Competition. Understand how they position their businesses but don’t become obsessed with them, otherwise you could end up looking and sounding just like them. The trick is to attempt to create a unique position for your brand that makes your competition appear less relevant. Know what you stand for. Every business needs to stand for something, preferably something unique. What is it that makes you different? Identify what you do better than anybody else, the key quality or characteristic that makes you different than your competitors – but it must be based on ‘truth’, because “nothing kills a bad product (or service) faster than great advertising.” Develop a distinctive ‘personality’ for your brand. Just as every person you know is different (with their own distinct personalities), so too should be your brand. Imagine for a moment that your brand is a person, what would he or she be like, how would they look, act and speak? Work out how to express what you do best. Once you have clearly identified what you stand for and the ‘personality’ of your brand, you need to arrive at a people-friendly expression to communicate that to your customers. But keep it simple and single-minded, avoid trying to be everything to everyone. Give your brand life! Now you’ve established what your brand stands for, you next need to bring it to life with a unique and distinctive ‘look and feel’ determine how it should represent itself visually. But in doing so, make sure that you look very different to the next guy – because to help your brand be successful, it has to stand out.
Every business needs to stand for something, preferably something unique. A business is never too small (or too big) to focus on building a strong, healthy brand. And no matter how good we might feel things are, I’m a great believer that it’s never too late to makes something better. Now that I’ve explained why we need a brand and just how to go about creating one, in the next issue of the Business Channel I’ll share my advice on what to be mindful of in the process. NB: If you missed any of my ‘Brand-building Columns’ from previous issues, please email me (ron@creativehotpot.com) and I will forward you a FREE copy of my comprehensive Creative Brand-aid Health Check ‘10-point guide’.
“Just how healthy is your brand?”
To find out, take this simple 15-second “Creative Brand-aid” health check at www.creativehotpot.com.
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NZRPG Milford Centre: in the Community Project & Spotlight: Goodman Group’s Orchard Park Development, Albany
Business develops in the heart of Albany Goodman Group’s involvement a great boost for the North Shore Channel readers who are keen to see Albany (at long last) reach its full potential will be thrilled with the recent news that leading property group Goodman have purchased a large chunk of the yet to be developed land that is to be developed under the name Orchard Park. Goodman are known for doing quality developments, that traditionally they hold ownership of themselves. At Albany they plan to be very flexible, selling properties as well as leasing. Goodman has a vision for Orchard Park that recognises the unique heritage of the area and the key attributes that make this one of the most compelling real estate opportunities in Auckland. Albany is a location that offers retail, education and leisure attractions. “We are excited about the opportunity to create a new commercial focal point,” says Goodman’s Mike Prentice, the Project Director for the development. “It will help support the location community while facilitating regional business growth.” “With Orchard Park we are planning an integrated business estate with modern, efficient and sustainable facilities that incorporate a consistent design theme. Onsite amenities and coordinated landscaping will be integrated into a masterplan that represents the latest thinking in land use planning. Built to Goodman’s high quality standards, we are creating a commercial precinct that will attract complementary businesses and foster success. Orchard Park is the land just over the hill to the south of Westfield Albany and Albany Supa Centre. It is very visable from the motorway driving north and is very accessible, being bordered by the northern motorway and old Albany Highway this strategically located estate has significant scale encompassing 12 hectares. As well as being situated close to Westfield Shopping Centre and Albany Supa Centre, it is also very close to Massey University, North Harbour Stadium and provides ready access to key transport routes north, south and west. It is handily positioned within an established business community neighbouring the North Harbour industrial and commercial precincts. Orchard Park has a zoning that supports a variety of business uses from light commercial through to commercial office with some amenity based retail.
You can choose to own or lease at Orchard Park Lease – Goodman is offering design-build solutions for light commercial and office users who want quality facilities tailored to their operations. With a proven and capable development team, and access to the best consultants, Goodman will ensure your property solution is as efficient as possible. “We like to build lasting relationships with our customers and offer flexible lease structures with competitive market rentals,” adds Mike Prentice. If you’d prefer, we can also offer these design-build options on a turn-key purchase basis.” Buy and Own – For the ultimate flexibility, individually serviced sites are also being offered for sale by Goodman. Mike Prentice explains. “A simple freehold ownership structure provides land options for those who have their own vision and are happy to work within the design parameters and quality guidelines, which we have set, that will ensure the estate is the North Shore’s preferred business location.” “We are working with local commercial real estate companies to provide all the options to those interested in the opportunity to locate to a quality development like Orchard Park.” For further information contact you preferred local Commercial Real Estate specialist, or contact Mike Prentice, Goodman Group. Phone 09 966 3528 or 021 562 906 or email: Mike.Prentice@goodman.com Visit: www.goodman.com
About Goodman: Goodman refers to the ASX listed Goodman Group, a global property investor and fund manager with around $25 billion of assets under management. In New Zealand Goodman manages, and is the cornerstone investor in, Goodman Property Trust, one of the NZX’s largest listed entities with around $2 billion of property assets invested in Auckland and Christchurch. Goodman is developing Orchard Park directly, independently of Goodman Property Trust.
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Artist impression of Eastside Offices for lease or sale, available from November 2013
Orchard Park
ORCHARD PARK VIDEO
Proposed 12 hectares of high-quality masterplanned estate, integrating retail, light commercial and office.  P ositioned between the Northern Motorway and Albany Westfield, Orchard Park provides flexible options to own or lease. Construction of the Corinthian Retail Centre and Eastside Offices are already underway. To be part of the last remaining land parcels in the Albany Basin, please contact your preferred realestate agent for a tour.
www.orchardpark.co.nz
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The Legal Column With Schnauer & Co
Receiverships and Liquidations If you run a business then receivership and liquidation are two words you most probably don’t want to hear. Mainzeal shareholders and its creditors have recently learnt this. But they are a fact of business life and the legal issues linked to them need to be explored. A receivership is different than a liquidation. In a receivership, the assets of the company are sold or realised for the benefit of the secured creditor who asked the receiver to step in. Although it is common for the secured creditor to agree terms with its own receiver, receivers can be appointed by the Court. The purpose of receivership is to repay the secured debt, so a receiver’s obligations are primarily to that party alone. Receivers do not make distributions to unsecured creditors. If a receiver holds surplus funds, these are returned to the company or paid to a liquidator to distribute. Unsecured creditors in a receivership need to apply to the Court for a liquidator to be appointed. A liquidator cannot take control of secured assets until the secured party has been repaid under the receivership. In a liquidation the assets are realised for the benefit of all creditors, secured and unsecured, in order of priority: secured creditors, employees and IRD get their money first. A liquidation can be voluntary (i.e. through a shareholders’ resolution) or compulsory, where a statutory demand served on the company by a creditor is not met, and the court then appoints a liquidator. Although the liquidator has control of the assets, he/she holds them on trust for the creditors.
Nick Kearney is an Associate with Schnauer & Co. Limited in Milford. NKearney@schnauer.com www.schnauer.com The liquidator will prepare a statement of the company’s position and report to creditors. The liquidator will also decide whether or not to continue to trade. The liquidator will be personally liable for any debts incurred through trading whilst the company is in liquidation. A liquidator can call a meeting of creditors. But this is not necessary if the liquidator determines the assets of the company do not require it. A creditor can ask for a meeting, if the liquidator doesn’t call one. Once the liquidation is complete, the company is removed from the register. It is not unusual for a company in receivership, but not in liquidation, to keep trading once the secured debt is repaid. A liquidator has the power to require a director or shareholder to deliver documents of the company as the liquidator requires. A liquidator also has the power to demand such persons to provide the liquidator with information about the company. It is an offence to refuse to do this. A common issue in liquidations is voidable payments. If the liquidator considers that a payment by the company to a creditor has given them preference over other creditors, then the liquidator may ask for it to be repaid. To prevent a repayment, the creditor must be able to show that it acted in good faith; and could not reasonably have suspected that the company was or would become insolvent; and gave value for the property or altered its position in the reasonable belief that the transaction would not be set aside.
If you run a business then receivership and liquidation are two words you most probably don’t want to hear
Visit: www.schnauer.com
Think North Shore Lawyers Think Schnauer and Co is a boutique law firm dedicated to providing personal and specialist assistance. We aim to develop and promote quality professional legal advice on the Shore commensurate with this area’s growing status as a centre of business excellence. We live and work within the North Shore community. We understand the issues facing people and we can help to resolve them. 222 Kitchener Road, Milford Ph +64 9 486-0177 www.schnauer.com Relationship Property | Trusts, Asset Protection and Estate Planning | Property | Commercial
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Education: Peter Clague, Kristin School Kristin School’s Executive Principal, Peter Clague, offers a reward for the return of childhood.
Peter Clague, Executive Principal.
Bounty Hunter I am considering offering a reward for the return of my childhood. It’s been more than three decades since I carelessly discarded it because I had more pressing things to attend to, but now I want it back. And let’s be clear – it’s my childhood I want back, not somebody else’s. I know all that stuff about youth being wasted on the young, but frankly, today’s children aren’t getting much of a chance to waste their youth. Little by little, it’s being taken from them. Eroded before they are finished with it. What I want back is the childhood that I took for granted. I want to roll in the long grass, not mow it. I want to eat spoonfuls of Milo straight from the packet, not wince as I sip the bitter benefits of green tea. I want to stretch in the morning because my muscles are calling out for the joy of it, not because they now cry out if I don’t. I want to buy two-for-a-cent lollies again, rather than broccoli and $5 tomatoes. I want my old priorities back. Approaching my tenth birthday, I was anxiously waiting for my first watch. These days, I’m anxiously watching my weight. Not that I needed a watch. “Come home when it gets dark.” was my mother’s most punctual command. When we were kids, time was unconstrained in a way I can barely imagine now. Days seemed elastic, boundless, no more of a finite commodity than air or water. Back then, a boy could idle away hours pondering the mystery of females. Now, we spend them pondering the history of emails. As a kid, I was a master at stalling the onset of going to bed. Nowadays, I scheme about how to get into it sooner. On a strict ration of only one TV programme a day, evenings were magically longer, the back garden more intriguing and your siblings mysteriously less irritating. It all seems irretrievable now. I can’t even moan enviously about today’s children squandering their childhood – they seem as busy as we do. Does anyone build tree-huts anymore? Or aimlessly roam the neighbourhood on their bikes? Even modern leisure activities for children are frenetic. I had a Playstation too, when I was growing up, but it was called a sandpit. Are we role-modelling busyness as a norm? As parents, we are encouraged to give our children ‘quality time.’ But these days, it seems that any scrap of uncommitted time has high quality. It has become a scarce and precious resource. When did we get so busy? Is it just a function of an everimproving society? No doubt there’s more on offer for our children than there was for us. Do we therefore feel an urgency to cram more into each of their days in order to make the most of those opportunities? It’s not that I dislike my own busyness. I love my job and wouldn’t swap it for anything. And it is certainly true that working with young people helps keep you young. I don’t really want to be a less-busy adult, or a child again. But I do wish that I had savoured more being young and unencumbered. At the time, childhood seemed endless and I was in a hurry to escape it. How I wish that I had realised then how bountiful free time was. It leaves me all the more determined to tell our young people that, sometimes, doing nothing is the most important task they face in a day.
Talking Trusts: Tammy McLeod, Davenports This monthly column is provided by Tammy Mcleod (BA LLB), a partner at Davenports Harbour Lawyers. Tammy leads the Davenports Harbour Trust Team and enjoys providing clients with advice and assistance on a broad range of issues involving the establishment and structuring of asset plans, interpretation of trust deeds, duties of trustees and the management and administration of trust funds. A key part of Tammy’s practice is reviewing existing asset holding structures to ensure they achieve the needs and requirements they were established to meet. She is also experienced in Property (Relationships) Act issues and believes that the provisions of the Act are an important consideration in personal asset planning. Tammy is a past president of the Auckland Tammy McLeod. Women’s Lawyers’ Association and is a current coconvenor of the NZICA Trust Special Interest Group.
Mike the builder & Joanne Mike was a builder. He and his wife, Joanne, had taken their lawyer’s advice years ago to set up a trust to own their family home. The shares in their building company were also transferred to the trust a few years ago. This was mainly driven by their accountant, who advised that there may be tax benefits in having the shares in the company owned by the trust. Over the years, the building company had traded successfully. Mike and Joanne had built themselves a lovely home (owned by the trust) overlooking one of the East Coast Bays. They had their three children in private schools, and while their mortgage was larger than average, they felt that they were comfortably well off. As with most building companies, the company had trade accounts with most of the large suppliers. Mike had always signed the terms of trade without too much thought, thinking of course that the terms were standard and that even if the company wasn’t able to meet its payments, his and Joanne’s house was in trust, so protected. Unfortunately, with the GFC, the building industry in New Zealand took a hit. Mike was considered a top end builder and he found that the work didn’t flow as much as it used to. At first things weren’t so tough that Mike couldn’t get credit with his building suppliers, but sometimes the bill would be paid in 60 days, rather than the 20th. For a while the suppliers were ok with that. Then one day Mike’s company couldn’t pay one of the suppliers at all. Employees had to be paid first and Mike just didn’t have the money to pay the supplier. Unfortunately things were also tight for the supplier, who sent Mike a letter demanding payment immediately and also advising that the guarantee signed at the time of signing the terms of trade would be invoked. Guarantee? Mike wasn’t sure what they meant, so pulled the terms of trade out of the back of his filing cabinet. Reading through the document, Mike realised that he should have taken legal advice at the time of signing the terms of trade. The guarantee was not just a personal guarantee from Mike, but also a guarantee from the shareholders of his building company – this meant the trust. As the family home was owned by the same trust as the shares in the company, the family home, which Mike and Joanne thought was protected in the trust, was exposed to the supplier. Mike and Joanne learnt the hard way that commonplace documents should still be reviewed by their legal advisor and also that where there is a degree of business risk, a two trust structure (one to hold the family home and other lifestyle assets and one for the “business risk” assets) is the way to go. To ensure you don’t make a similar mistake, take advice. Contact: Tammy McLeod, Email: tammy.mcleod@davenportsharbour.co.nz or visit: www.davenportsharbour.co.nz
DAVENPORTS H A R B O U R
L A W Y E R S
331 Rosedale Road, Albany. Phone: 915 4380 Email: tammy.mcleod@davenportsharbour.co.nz www.davenportsharbour.co.nz
Issue 10 - March 2013
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Westpac Auckland North Business Awards 2012:
Winner Profile – Turner’s Panelbeating,
Driving Success Through
Tyler Schwalger, Director of Turner’s Panelbeating and Carpainting Limited.
Turner’s Panelbeating and Carpainting Limited is a business with a long history on the North Shore. Moving with the times, the Target Road premises have been revamped to provide both customers and staff with an environment that exceeds all expectations, both on the shop floor and behind the scenes. Winners of the Flintfox Excellence in Information Management Award in last October’s Westpac Auckland North Business Awards, Turner’s Panelbeating is a business built on quality, both in their work and their customer service.
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Tyler Schwalger is the Director of Turner’s Panelbeating and Carpainting Limited, a business established over 30 years ago by Glenn Turner. Situated on Target Road, the business has grown from a small shop at the back of the section to occupy expansive road-front premises. Tyler was originally employed as the foreman in 1986, acquiring a half-share in the business in 2004, and taking full ownership in 2007. The business is MTA assured and a member of the Collision Repair Association, which is effectively the ‘Master Builders’ of the auto repair industry. They have held the contract as North Shore Toyota’s nominated repairer since 1986, and they repair a full range of vehicles from luxury European cars through to all brands of the more modest family cars. Their point-ofdifference is that they not only recommend, but also encourage genuine new parts to ensure optimal quality and safety. It’s been a steep learning curve for Tyler, whose position has changed from one of employee to owner. “I was a great panel beater that had a new role to play,” he recalls. “I had to retrain, learn about KPIs, spreadsheets and SWOTS, and know how to plan and measure growth and budgets.” When Tyler took over the business many of the essential operations were still done manually. “Everything was on paper ledgers, quotes and invoices were hand written, and wages were handled by the office staff and physically put into pay packets,” Tyler recalls. “I could see the time that this was taking, so we looked for a better system.” SmartPay and QuotePlus were introduced, largely automating the process, and saving considerable effort and time. Next up was the challenge
Photo by Ethan Schwalger.
Turner’s Panelbeating and Carpainting Limited
Flintfox Excellence in Information Management Award
Quality Service of reducing, and in some cases eliminating, paper. Insurance companies were making the change to online documentation of estimates and photos, so Tyler invested in digital cameras for the staff to document repairs. As part of their extensive service, customers now receive a folder that fully documents each step of the repair process along with images to demonstrate the work done. Part of Turner’s Panelbeating’s success lies in the fact that all staff are expected to take ownership of their work and the role they play in the chain of events. “Basically my job is to promote the business, deal with any issues and oversee,” says Tyler. “When I bought the business I did not want to be the funnel. If all decisions need to go through me, it just bottles up. If we give everyone their own responsibilities then they need to check that the last person in the chain has done their job properly, because if you’ve accepted the work, then you’ve accepted it as fine.”
Turner’s Panelbeating’s success lies in the fact that all staff are expected to take ownership of their work and the role they play in the chain of events. Tyler said the team looked to the Toyota’s Kaizen Theory and implemented a new mindset of ‘forever improving’. “Every small step of a process was measured, and for this, each and every staff member had to take small steps to save on materials and time management,” says Tyler. “Then every step had to be checked by the next person and by accepting the previous person’s work, they acknowledged it was completed to the standard required.” To match the changes in information management and processes, the external appearance of the business was modified to present a professional image. “We removed all the parts that were hanging off the walls and ceilings and painted the building inside and out, including all the floors,” says Tyler. “We put up shadow boards to cut down on the time wasted looking for tools and materials, and painted squares on the floors so that every machine was stored in the right place. For the staff, overalls were replaced with shirts and pants.” Consideration for the environment is also an important element of the Turner’s Panelbeating operations, with new technology replacing outdated systems. “In 2008 we tore down the old hazardous paint mixing room and replaced it with a state-of-the-art mixing room, fully vented to expel any dangerous chemicals,” says Tyler. “In 2011 we changed our paint system to waterborne; this was where all the technology was moving, as well as being environmentally friendly and safer for our staff. We also built a new preparation bay that was fitted with extractor fans to expel dangerous chemicals.” Looking further afield, Tyler saw the necessity of extending the good work that Turner’s Panelbeating does past the front door. In 2010 Tyler
and the team raised funds for the Breast Cancer Research Trust through Fight for a Cure, privately raising $5270 of the $205 000 the event raised overall. “It was panelbeating shop owners versus IAG insurance assessors, and the plan was to raise funds and get to know the assessors better. My fight video, where the only knock out of the night was delivered, has been played at a US repair industry convention, alongside the Sigma car show in America, promoting what we have done in getting the panel shops and insurance companies together. It has played a big part in promoting Turner’s Panelbeating throughout New Zealand and abroad.” Turner’s Panelbeating are also a corporate sponsor of the Westpac Helicopter Trust. Building relationships within and outside the sector takes time and effort, but Tyler sees it as a way of supporting worthwhile causes while enhancing the profile and presence of Turner’s Panelbeating. Tyler is a member of the Auckland Committee of the New Zealand Collision Repair Association where the vision is to provide members with the best possible support, to liaise with inter-industry business for the continued growth and professionalism of the industry, and to promote consumer awareness, maintain quality assurance standards and industry credibility. The future of Turner’s Panelbeating has recently been boosted with the business now aligned with IAG and their repair network. “We will also continue with our staff training, as well as upgrading our equipment,” says Tyler. “Our strategic plan and goal is to deliver the best service and quality. For us it’s not about being the cheapest – quality is remembered long after price is forgotten.” Visit www.turnerspanelbeating.co.nz
Turners Panelbeating and Carpainting 2004 Ltd won the Flintfox Excellence in Information Management Award. Tyler Schwalger of Turners accepted the award from Mike Ridgway of Flintfox.
Issue 10 - March 2013
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New Zealand’s best place to work and do business Smales Farm is a family-owned and operated developer of commercial property based on Auckland’s North Shore. Properties include Smales Farm in Takapuna, the ANZ Business Centre in Albany, and two and four Fred Thomas Drive in Takapuna. The Smale family vision is to provide ‘the best place to work and do business.’ High tenancy rates and an impressive collection of architectural awards attest to the success of this vision. Each building is managed by Smales Farm Management, in keeping with Smales Farm’s philosophy of high quality and excellent service. Visit www.smalesfarm.co.nz to find out more, or call General Manager Daniel Henderson on (09) 488 2300.
“We like the location and the ease of access to motorways, but we also like the strong commitment to quality in terms of ongoing building maintenance and management. Building maintenance and ongoing management are very important for tenants. We looked at Smales Farm in Takapuna and knew the standards would be high.” Ian Lochhead, Regional Finance Manager of GN ReSound.
LEASING NOW: Fred Thomas Drive realises its true potential following revamp. A $6 million phoenix has risen from the rubble of the old ten pin bowling alley at 2 Fred Thomas Drive in Takapuna. The fully refurbished building now houses a brand new medical centre, with office space – including signage rights – available for lease. This site has more than 250 car parks. There’s easy access to the Northern motorway network, with motorway interchanges at Esmonde Road to the South and Northcote Road to the North. This is a great opportunity to lease A-grade office space, fully refurbished inside and out. High-profile signage rights and plenty of parking make this a must-see.
2 Fred Thomas Drive, Takapuna • Fully refurbished inside and out • Brand new medical centre onsite • Ample parking for staff and visitors • Signage rights
How much space is available?
TA
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Area
Top Floor, level 2
1300m2
Level 1
320m2
Level 1
500m2
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AU
Please contact Smales Farm General Manager Daniel Henderson on 09 488 2300 or contact your preferred agent.
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Building & Construction With Phil Brosnan
Phil Brosnan is the Managing Director of North Shore based company, Brosnan Construction. Since setting up Brosnan Construction in 2010, the company has built a strong team of qualified individuals who work collaboratively and are focussed on ‘making a positive difference’. The team at Brosnan Construction understand the importance of strong relationships, quality, and reliability within the industry and have been able to deliver consistent results through the application of these principles to all of areas of their work. Phil Brosnan
Cost of Collapse
Significant for Industry
It would be difficult for me to write an article about construction without making reference to the recent collapse of one of our national construction companies. I imagine that the announcement on the 6th February that Mainzeal, the country’s third largest construction company, was entering into receivership caught us all off-guard. Rumours often pervade the industry, but you tend to put it down to gossip and get on with business. I think the news also caught the media by surprise; I remember watching the news and being told that 400 staff would be affected. Knowing what I do about this industry, I knew then that thousands of people would be affected. The true effect of this failure on the industry - and in fact the wider business community - is still unknown, but I imagine it will be significant. While I cannot speak for similar failures in other business sectors, when a construction company falters, the effects travel far and wide. Construction companies tend to procure services from a significant number of organisations of varying sizes and ownership structures. Often these organisations are quite small and are headed by owner/managers who, depending on their exposure, could be put at risk of seeing their own businesses topple. These organisations are part of significant supply chain networks that rely on their continued trading, and of course their payments for the services they provide. The business owner in turn relies on income from the business, and may even have offered it as collateral against loans secured against property. Until the full effect of these compounding factors are understood, there is significant risk that many other organisations will follow suit; particularly subcontracting businesses, and even the main contractors that rely on them to complete their work. Many established construction-based
For many, this latest blow will be too much and they will falter despite the growing economic recovery. businesses have faced significant losses associated with leaky buildings and for the last half-decade have been operating in the worst economic conditions that I have experienced in my almost 30-year career. For many, this latest blow will be too much and they will falter despite the growing economic recovery. We too have to take great care to manage our exposure to the fallout associated with Manizeal’s demise. Strong financial management, robust forecasting, and cost analysis systems and procedures are paramount to the success of any organisation, especially in this industry, and since inception these have been a major focus for Brosnan Construction. I believe this focus is one of the main reasons we have been able to grow in such tough economic conditions, and I am confident that these fundamental principals will see the organisation continue to prosper. Contact: Phil Brosnan, Brosnan Construction, Phone: (09) 479 4347, Email: enquiries@brosnanconstruction.co.nz.
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Issue 10 - March 2013
Employment Law: with Bronwen Newcombe, Davenports
Bronwen Newcombe (BA, LLB) is an employment law and trust specialist at Davenports Harbour Lawyers. In her employment practice, Bronwen advises on all employment-related work including restructuring, redundancy, employee benefits, protecting intellectual property, employee v contractor issues, health and safety, performance management, restraints of trade, personal grievance claims and trial periods.
Bronwen Newcombe.
Ritchie, Mike (& Jasmine!) Ritchie and Mike are the successful owners of a lighting manufacturing, wholesaling and retailing business in Albany. They started their company from scratch 11 years ago and after a lot of blood, sweat and tears the business is now taking off. The turnover and profit is excellent and the business has recently won a business excellence award. The future is looking good! Ritchie and Mike have also spent significant time and energy creating a positive working environment for their staff. As business owners, they pride themselves on the fact that they are the “firm of choice” in their industry and that their team of staff are like a family. Everyone works very hard but there is a solid foundation of respect, commitment and loyalty between the owners and all staff. It’s a great place to work! Last Friday, one of the employee’s, Daniel, asked to see Mike in private. Daniel showed Mike what looked like photocopies of posts from Facebook. When Mike looked closer, he saw that the posts were uploaded the night before by one of their other employee’s, Jasmine. Mike’s face dropped as he read through what Jasmine had posted: “Working for Mike and Ritchie is awful! I’m sick of it! Been here too long and the bosses now think they don’t have to pay me what I’m worth! They have short hands and deep pockets! Found out that last month was their biggest profit month ever ($200,000!) and they don’t even say thanks.” Mike’s heart rate went through the roof. Jasmine had been with the company since it was first established and although she was still relatively young she had worked her way up to be the Operations Manager of the company. She was consulted regularly on the decisions of the company, and Mike and Ritchie saw her as an integral part of the team. As with all staff, they paid her well above market rates and Mike and Ritchie both really enjoyed working with her. Mike knows that employment law is a minefield and that before taking any action he should talk to his lawyer, but he feels justified in telling Jasmine to pack her bags immediately. However Mike knows enough to call his lawyer first. It was lucky that they did because their lawyer said that instantly dismissing Jasmine would highly likely result in Jasmine bringing a Personal Grievance claim against the company for unjustified dismissal. Mike had been involved with a Personal Grievance issue in his previous working life, and there was no way he wanted to go down that route. So what could/should they do? Their lawyer outlined the legal requirements for Mike and Ritchie to follow if they wanted to determine whether or not they could safely dismiss Jasmine. This involved a lengthy procedural process to investigate the Facebook posts. Thank goodness for having a process to follow, as this allowed Mike and Ritchie to minimise all risks to the company but achieve the outcome they were happy with. Posting disparaging remarks and/or confidential information on Facebook is a growing concern for employers and we recommend contacting an employer lawyer prior to taking any disciplinary action against an employee. Also, do your employment agreements cover your Social Media/Internet requirements? Or do you have a Social Media/ Internet policy in place to ensure all staff are aware of the company expectations in this regard?
Brad Visser Specialising in Industrial Sales and Leasing Committed to providing innovative and strategic property solutions Passionate and professional approach High standard of property service and integrity Committed to accelerating your success
Call Brad now for a complimentary value or rental analysis. MOB: 021 814 902 DDI: 09 488 4788 E: brad.visser@colliers.com
COLLIERS INTERNTAIONAL NORTH SHORE OFFICE Level 1 129 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, 0622 Auckland City TEL: 09 488 4777 www.colliers.co.nz
Please feel free to contact Bronwen Newcombe from Davenports to discuss. Telephone: +64 9 915 4380 or email: Bronwen.Newcombe@davenportsharbour.co.nz
DAVENPORTS H A R B O U R
L A W Y E R S
Accelerating success.
331 Rosedale Road, Albany. Phone: 915 4380 Email: tammy.mcleod@davenportsharbour.co.nz www.davenportsharbour.co.nz
Issue 10 - March 2013
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Feature: Our 2013 School Head Prefects
Celebrating our 2013 Head Prefects At Channel Magazine we love highlighting all that is good on the Shore. We make it our business to highlight the achievements of those in our community. For youngsters it doesn’t get much better than being selected by their Secondary School to be the Head Girl or Head Boy. It is a reward for the hard work and dedication of those students during the years they have attended the school and celebrates their leadership qualities. In this issue of Channel Magazine we thought our readers deserve to know a little bit more about those students chosen to lead their respective North Shore schools in 2013. Just as the school year got underway in February, Aidan Bennett put these questions to the 2013 Head Boys and Girls of Kristin, Rosmini, Takapuna Grammar, Westlake Boys, Westlake Girls and Pinehurst. Claudia Brick and Mark Horner.
Claudia Brick – Head Girl, Takapuna Grammar School
Mark Horner – Head Boy, Takapuna Grammar School
AB: Congratulations on becoming the head girl at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? CB: In my time at Takapuna Grammar School I have contributed to many co-curricular activities, as well as taking part in a wide range of extra-curricular sport, music, and service. I like to think that I am a positive role model for younger students and have demonstrated the dedication and commitment required to be head girl through leadership and a great work ethic.
AB: Congratulations on becoming the head boy at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? MH: That’s a really difficult question to answer! I feel that I was chosen for the role because I try to be involved in as many different different areas of the school as I can, such as World Vision, PSSP (Peer Sexuality Support Programme), sport, and music.
AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? CB: Managing to maintain my high academic standards and sport while fulfilling the role of head girl, which has a significant time commitment. AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? CB: Takapuna Grammar School has provided me with opportunities above and beyond any previous expectations. The school encourages and supports students to be involved in many aspects of school life while maintaining extra-curricular interests as well. Obviously my friends here have also played a big part in making school so special.
AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? MH: I’d have to say writing speeches. They’re something that I’ve always found challenging yet satisfying. I also think that trying to fit everything in that I want to achieve this year is going to be difficult. AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? MH: I love it here! There are so many opportunities for everybody so that no one is ever left out. Also we have a great mix of people and cultures within the school, creating a diverse and interesting atmosphere.
AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? CB: Universal access to healthcare. One billion people in the world today lack access to health care and more people are killed by preventable disease each year than conflict.
AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? MH: Ooh this is a hard one! I would have to say that other than the obvious (war and poverty) that I would like to change the way that profits are shared. Ideally I feel that all products should be fair trade.
AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? CB: Good question - that is as yet undecided! I have a wide variety of interests so it is a challenge to narrow it down to a specific career choice. I am looking forward to continuing learning and hopefully that will include the chance to travel and study overseas.
AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? MH: I’d really like to go into engineering either through Auckland or Christchurch. I haven’t decided what strand of engineering I will do yet; I’ll decide that in second year. Also, at some point, I would like to train as a commercial pilot.
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James Bishop – Head Boy, Kristin School AB: Congratulations on becoming the head boy at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? JB: Thank you, I think that I was chosen by my peers and teachers to lead the school because of my love for Kristin and my dedication during my time here. I have always said yes to any opportunity that has come my way, such as when my close friend Jocelyn Ho asked me to partake in Chinese Flag Dancing, when I was asked to MC a violin recital, and when I coached junior football. I think this involvement over many years put me forward as a candidate for head prefecture. I have always had the ability to build strong personal relationships with all sorts of individuals and when groups come together I find myself being looked up to as the one to make decisions and lead the group. I have always enjoyed being a leader ever since 2007 when my teacher Mrs Sarah Underdown made me Class Captain. AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? JB: I think the most challenging part of the role will be to manage the pressure of being a role model and leader for the entire student body. As a Head Boy at Kristin I will be heavily involved in the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools and this obviously takes a huge chunk of time in what is already a busy final year of school. It is hard to comprehend that the entire student body is looking to me for leadership and can be motivated by my actions, and although this is a difficult part of the role for me, I feel that it will be one of the most rewarding. I will try to manage the responsibility of leadership by involving myself in as many areas of the school as possible, and in particular through my extra-curricular activities where I am able to develop close friendships with individuals and groups. AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? JB: I truly believe that Kristin School is special because of the people involved in the school. Whether that is students, parents, teachers or administrative staff, each and every individual involved in Kristin goes above and beyond their required role in the school and that’s what makes it such an amazing place to be, day in and day out. Since the day I set foot inside the grounds back in 2004, I have felt that Kristin School is a family. The dedication and enthusiasm from all is why success is regularly achieved in all facets of school life. I have loved my ten years at the school and cannot describe to you the honour and pride I feel to be leading Kristin School in its 40th year alongside Phoebe. AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? JB: I think I would entirely get rid of negativity in the world. In the words of a young man named Justin Bieber “Never Say Never”. I believe that this speaks wonders for what I am trying to say. For me personally, this desired change is inspired by my Year 9 form teacher, Mr Dennis Brown; he always made an effort in every class to not say the word “don’t” and would consistently stay positive and motivate his students. This meant a lot to me and I feel that if this was achieved on a much larger scale then many of the world’s problems would be solved and the world would be a much happier place for all. A friend of mine, Kiran Patel, recently came back from a family trip to India and he spoke of the happiness that is evident in the slums in India where there are people with next to nothing living happy lives simply because they are positive about the situation that they are in. With this positivity spread worldwide, the world would be a more selfless place and people would work together to make the world a better place.
Phoebe Jasper and James Bishop.
AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? JB: When I leave school I hope to go to University in Melbourne. I am currently deciding on whether to head for Monash University in Melbourne to study Business and Property or to The University of Melbourne to study Business. With either of these degrees I hope to dabble in the financial sector, investing in projects and in some way giving back to society.
Phoebe Jasper – Head Girl, Kristin School AB: Congratulation on becoming head girl at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? PJ: I think, ultimately, my positivity and willingness to get involved gave me the extra edge. I am an extremely energetic person and I love supporting the people around me. I also find myself in lots of different friend groups, which I think helps me to be more approachable, so it means my peers can ask me anything and relate to me. AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? PJ: For me, the most challenging and enjoyable part of the role are bound to be the same. It will be a struggle to keep on top of everything but I hope in the future I can look back and say I really got stuck in and had a lot to do in my final year of school. Time management is always challenge for me, as it is for most teenagers. The leaders at Kristin have a lot to do with the whole school, but the student leadership structure also allows opportunities to talk to Deans and Principals about your struggles, so that will definitely help. AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? PJ: Kristin is an extremely special school, having been there since Kindergarten I have had the full experience. Growing up at this school has been more than I could ever ask for. Kristin has taught me values and habits that I will carry through my whole life, and I will always have somewhere to return to, wherever I end up. AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? PJ: Happiness. The world is so angry and there is so much hate in the world. If everyone can make one person happy a day then I think it would make the world a much better place. AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? PJ: When I leave school I hope to study musical theatre overseas, in England or Melbourne and then perform for the rest of my life. Being a singer and actor, music is extremely important to me, so as long as I can sing and have music then I will be happy. If that doesn’t work out in the next 5 or so years, I plan to be an early childhood educator.
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Feature: Our 2013 School Head Prefects
Jesse Medcalf – Head Boy, Westlake Boys High School AB: Congratulations on becoming the head boy at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? JM: I’m an extremely passionate member of the Westlake community, and I pride myself on reaching the potential that Westlake Boys’ encourages every student to achieve. I’ve become fully immersed in Westlake life, and over the last four years I’ve been fortunate to participate in a wide variety of sporting, academic and cultural activities. AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? JM: A big goal for me, and one with its fair share of challenges, is to ensure that every student fulfils their potential. Westlake Boys’ has a proud tradition of excellence, and are constantly improving pass rates across all levels, but it remains a challenge for all students to meet their potential. Our Peer Tutoring, free breakfast and tutoring schemes are making excellent headway in this regard, and I’m keen to see this progress even further this year. AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? JM: Westlake Boys’ has a unique sense of pride and dignity. Whether you’re walking into the magnificent auditorium during assembly, watching the house haka competition, or simply walking around the school grounds, the sense of school pride amongst the boys is pervasive. I think this comes from the way we celebrate excellence with such passion. AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? JM: Positive change comes from each individual’s desire to first reach his or her own potential and then to contribute more effectively to society. If this mind-set was adopted collectively we could all share a more bountiful community. AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? JM: I’m intending to apply to a range of US universities, including some of the ivies and a few others with strong business programs. I hope to study economics and politics, and eventually follow careers in both fields. I want to return to New Zealand for the politics as I think it would be the most effective way for me to improve the lives of all New Zealanders.
Jesse Medcalf.
Zoe Cronin – Head Girl, Westlake Girls High School AB: Congratulations on becoming the head girl at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? ZC: Thank you. Maybe some of the reasons I have been chosen as a head prefect of Westlake Girls High School are that I am a hard worker who strives for personal excellence in all that I do, I love to interact and meet new people, I enjoy taking on new opportunities and challenges, and have a positive attitude. AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? ZC: Time management will be a challenging factor this year. Finding a balance between my huge commitment with sport as well as finding time to study, write assignments, and be one of the main figures helping lead the school - it will be a challenge, but one I am looking forward to. I will come across many minor challenges throughout the year, however I have great staff behind me, and a supportive prefect team surrounding me, so any challenges faced will be able to be shared and overcome. AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? ZC: I believe my school is special as it provides a place for all students to grow and develop confidently into leaders. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Westlake; it has provided me with numerous opportunities with my studies as well as sport. I look forward to this year with a new house system helping generate even better school spirit, whilst providing a great support network for girls within the school allowing them to make lifelong friends. Westlake is a school that sets high standards, producing young ladies with qualifications, talents and core values that will help them be successful in life. AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? ZC: I realize this question only says one thing however as a leader I would love to change many things to make New Zealand as well as other countries all around the world a better place. Some things I would change are - prison penalties would become harsher, poverty and child abuse.
Zoe Cronin.
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AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? ZC: I am unsure whether I want to attend university or take a gap year next year. I like to focus on the present and make the most of each opportunity that comes my way rather than focusing on the future too much. Possible options at this stage include pursuing a sports scholarship overseas to continue my involvement in volleyball, studying communications at AUT, or working toward a career as a sports journalist, something that I would be very passionate and interested in.
Jack Timings – Head Boy, Rosmini College
Ben Curran – Head Boy, Rosmini College
AB: Congratulations on becoming the head boy at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? JT: I think I was chosen for the Head Boy role because of my involvement in all parts of the school. I am heavily involved in school music, mainly as a classical singer but also as a trombone player, I have been playing sport for the school since I first started in Year 7 in both soccer and tennis, and I have demonstrated good academic ability as well. In the words of our principal Mr Gerrard: “Rosmini College prides itself on producing well rounded young men.”
AB: Congratulations on becoming the head boy at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? BC: I try to always be driven and determined. During my 6 years at Rosmini, I have channelled my energy and dedication into many pursuits in the classroom and on the sports field and now I have been given the opportunity to apply my experience to the wider school community I now know so well.
AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? JT: It will be hard to continue the legacy of the outstanding Head Boys that the school has had every year, each making their mark on the school. I look forward to the challenge of helping make Rosmini College as great as I can in my own way.
AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? BC: Year 13 traditionally has an academic focus, and this has always been important to me. I hope to be able to balance my enthusiasm for my new role with my commitment to study and other personal endeavours. AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? BC: It has been incredible to absorb the spirit of Rosmini during all my years at the
AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? JT: Our school is special because of the Catholic values and teachings that permeate all parts of the school whether they are academic, sporting or cultural. The good values that the students here are taught to use and live by create a strong sense of brotherhood in the school, which I believe is the greatest part of the school. Age, size, ability, everyone is equal at Rosmini College and that is something we pride ourselves on. AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? JT: For most people, life in New Zealand is pretty fantastic. But some people, in both New Zealand and around the world, are not so fortunate. There are people living in poverty, with corruption, and without rights and freedoms. These global issues are not simply going to go away in one lifetime, nor are they problems a lone leader can defeat. The world needs massive changes and it is unrealistic to assume that we can make such a difference on our own. But if everyone plays their part, change can happen. More personally, a realistic change I would like to help progress is the treatment of Type 1 diabetes in the world today. As a diabetic myself I want to help those in my position live as normal a life as possible and to be able to have the best control over their condition that they can. I believe that with the progress that has been made already, we could see incredible results in the next 10-20 years. AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? JT: After the year is over, I would very much like to study Engineering and Music Performance, preferably at Auckland. After that, I’m not quite sure.
Ben Curran and Jack Timings.
school. Rosmini College has always prided itself on producing well-rounded men. The teachers, Old Boys and leadership bodies work to create a sense of family, and it is so satisfying to be one of the senior students now helping to create this culture for the younger boys. AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? BC: In a perfect world, everyone would have a basic standard of living, and have their natural rights recognised. Food, education and hygienic shelter are desirable for everyone. It is scary to think that this may never be achieved, but therein presents our generation’s challenge. AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? BC: At the moment I intend to study Commerce and Law, possibly at The University of Auckland or maybe further afield. I’ll see where this year takes me.
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Feature: Our 2013 School Head Prefects
Jake McGregor and Megan Woodhead.
Jake McGregor – Head Boy, Pinehurst School AB: Congratulations on becoming the head boy at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? JM: I have been attending Pinehurst for the past 6 years, and have always tried my hardest to be an integral part of the school community, assisting in organising various projects, taking part in events such as school plays, speech competitions and sports days, and serving on a variety of councils including academic, citizenship, and environmental. AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? JM: One of our aims as a prefect committee this year is to encourage greater participation in house events, and building a greater sense of school spirit. I feel that motivating the student body, and indeed the staff and parent community as well has the potential to be rather challenging initially, but I am confident that we will make headway throughout the year. AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? JM: It has provided a safe, friendly environment where I can be confident expressing myself whilst pursuing my own interests and learning in a fashion that suits me best – the small class sizes allow the teachers to focus more on the individual students. This is something that I have responded well to. AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? JM: I would change the basic principles of politics, whereby instead of being concerned with what benefits them, politicians would instead pursue policies that benefit the public and the country they serve. AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? JM: Although I intend to pursue my interests in performing arts, I will also be attending university, where I hope to follow a career in broadcasting, or else in history.
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Megan Woodhead – Head Girl, Pinehurst School AB: Congratulations on becoming the head girl at your school. Why do you think you were chosen for the role? MW: Though I have only been at the school for two years it has had such a great impact on me, and I’ve always felt I’ve needed to give back in some way. I became involved in as many school activities as possible; events, house activities, and competitions. I also worked hard to become a part of the Scholars Academy, joined the Citizenship Council, and attended the NZ Model United Nations. I suppose in showing an eagerness to get involved wherever possible and to contribute to the school, I also showed the qualities that deemed me fit for the role. It is such an honour to have been chosen. AB: What is going to be the most challenging part of the role for you? MW: I believe that trying to bring about change, however small; will always be met with some degree of confrontation. This is always challenging for both parties involved especially as there are so many ideas our prefect body would love to bring to fruition this year. AB: Why is your school so special, you have obviously enjoyed your time there? MW: Pinehurst has enabled me to grow in all aspects of my life and learning. It is such a supportive and friendly environment where all students are given the opportunity to excel, not only academically, but in all areas. AB: You are obviously a leader. If there was one thing you could change in the world what would that be? MW: Peoples’ inability to accept one another’s differences, whether this be race, religion, gender or sexual orientation. I believe acceptance of others is of utmost importance if we seek any degree of peace in the future. AB: What do you intend to do when you leave school? MW: I am currently interested in doing a degree in communications at AUT, possibly majoring in journalism. Hopefully I will be able to pursue my interests in photography as well. However I’m also interested in political science and fine art so nothing is definite.
Accountancy
A Breath of Fresh Air
to Accounting
The world of accounting has been characterised by numbing sameness, self-absorption, and shopping lists of identical benefits for some time. But a courageous and charismatic new firm has hit the refresh button. So what made Matthew Bellingham and Aaron Wallace, both successful Chartered Accountants, come together to create Bellingham Wallace? There was no one “Eureka” moment: ‘You don’t come into the office one day and the alarm goes off inside your head, it’s time to launch a new firm,” says Matthew. We just recognised that the path we were on wasn’t a true reflection of who we are and what we wanted to be. “Matt and I are both incredibly ambitious for our clients,” says Aaron. “It took us a while but we finally took our own advice and set plans in motion to make our own aspirations a reality and create a brand which largely is a reflection of us, but also, importantly a reflection of where we want to go to.” A quick online search revealed that most firms have a similar directory of services. A mistake that many businesses make is to position their product or service with values or promises that really should be implicit and that all their key competitors share – in this case a high calibre accounting firm saying ‘it’s about expert advice.’ So it should be! And so are your competitors. So why should I choose you over them again? So what is it that these two have that so many others don’t? The answer lies with their clients. It was Matthew’s reputation for innovation that appealed to aluminium joinery business Windowmakers. “We made a conscious decision to get a fresh approach and a new set of eyes on the way our business operates and that’s exactly what we got with Matthew,” says Director Heidi Johnston. Talking to Matthew and Aaron it became clear that they are quite an excitable pair. It’s this unique combination of fresh thinking and energy which appears to have fuelled their reputations.
head of Radiation, for advice. “The team and culture at Bellingham Wallace is incredibly positive. So we want the brand to capture this. When I met Matt and Aaron I immediately felt their energy. They are an ambitious, excitable pair who are unapologetic about their strong drive to be better for their clients,” says Jill. Bellingham Wallace has thrown down the gauntlet, with the message that they are not stepping out to be just another accounting firm. That’s not why they’re here, and there would certainly be no appeal in that for their clients. “We know that we don’t think or work like other firms. We know we build quite different relationships with the people and the organisations we work with. We are different in every way and we will build a reputation on that,” concludes Aaron. Bellingham Wallace’s website, www.bellinghamwallace.co.nz, launches on the 31st March 2013. The team are ready to help and can be contacted on 09 367 1623.
It’s this unique combination of fresh thinking and energy which appears to have fuelled their reputations. “Aaron has always shared our vision and helped us find the best way forward. They ‘get’ our brand and despite the risks and challenges in it, have kept us positively focused on the long term,” says Kokako’s Mike Murphy. According to Christine Sharma, Managing Director of New Zealand fashion label Ruby, it was Matthew’s intimate understanding of their business model and subsequent input that helped create the successful culture that is driving Ruby’s growth. “We love getting to know our clients as people, because they each have their own ambitions and challenges. This is why, for us, it’s about so much more than the numbers and about so much more than the advice. It’s about working at the cross section of both with confidence and generosity of spirit. This is what sets us apart,” says Matthew. “To be truly respected for what we do, we have to be far more than good accountants; we have to be good people first.” Bellingham Wallace recently approached branding specialist Jill Brinsdon,
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The Alternative Board: Successful business owners know who to talk to
The Alternative Board Expanding across Auckland Two more experienced facilitators have joined Stephen James to expand the services of The Alternative Board across Auckland. Gordon Stuart will serve The Alternative Board member companies in central Auckland and Richard Simmons will serve members in southern Auckland. It has taken less than a year for The Alternative Board to become established in Auckland. Stephen James, who negotiated to bring the franchise to New Zealand, with USA founders in Denver, USA, said the reputation of kiwis to quickly adopt new ideas has been noticed. “Our USA partners have been surprised at how quickly we have attracted members after less than a year’” said Stephen. “They both have extensive business experience and like me, they love working with business owners to improve performance and achieve goals.” Gordon and Richard have recently returned from intensive training in Denver and will apply this knowledge for the From left: Stephen James with new franchisees for The Alternative Board, Gordon Stuart and Richard Simmons. benefit of business owners in their regions.
Meet some of our members Philip seeking objective input Philip Dowling had never intended to work full time in the coffee industry, but approximately four years ago, unforeseen circumstances required that he take on direct management of his interest in Nero Italia. Nero Italia represents Caffe Moak (Pronounced: Mow-Ark), one of a new breed of innovative, award-winning Italian coffee roasters; the Company distributes Moak® coffee beans, associated accessories and coffee machines to the New Zealand and South Pacific hospitality market. “We represent a highly reputable Italian familyowned business and have built a solid base of customers but still have much work ahead to do justice to the Moak® brand in New Zealand,” said Philip. “My problem, like many small business owners, is that I’ve become ‘buried’ in day to day operations with Philip says a local board of directors can help him little time left for strategic take Moak’s reputation much further in New Zealand. thinking and planning.”
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Philip said he decided to join The Alternative Board after attending a sample Board meeting. “As a small family-owned company, we sometimes cannot see the ‘wood for the trees’, so a structured monthly meeting with Board members who are facing similar challenges will provide me with the discipline and positive environment to debate the challenges and options before us.”
Lee appoints strategic support Lee Crook has made what she describes as her first significant strategic decision since becoming a member of The Alternative Board in the winter of 2012. She has recently asked Scott Litherland to join the company as Manager, finance and operations. Classique supplies branded carry bags to many of Australasia’s biggest retail brands with impressive progress made under Lee’s 22 years of leadership. “Scott will make a lot of the decisions that have prevented me from thinking about how I can take the company further” said Lee. With 13 staff and offices on the North Shore and Melbourne, the company has more opportunities which Lee wants to pursue. “Scott has joined as a direct result of the disciplines The Alternative Board meetings have placed upon me,” said Lee. “The monthly meetings require me to bring up my most
Become a Franchisee of The Alternative Board There would be few people who can match Stephen James’ experience in growing the value of business owner equity. Stephen is currently expanding The Alternative Board through New Zealand by establishing a franchisee network. He has found that elsewhere in the world, business consultants, former senior business executives and people who have previously run their own companies, have the necessary experience for this type of franchise. As a franchise owner, you will nurture the growth of local businesses. The Alternative Board has a resource of information, training and proven tools which builds on the experience of each franchisee.
How it works
TheAlternativeBoard.co.nz P.O. Box 32-234, Devonport, Auckland 0624. Tel: 09 446 0963. Mobile: 021 606 934. Email: sjames@TheAlternativeBoard.co.nz
Call Stephen James to see how your business can benefit from The Alternative Board.
Monthly meetings: Non-competing business owners meet as a board of peers every month. The meetings, which are managed to a formal agenda, enable each business owner the opportunity to discuss a challenge or opportunity he or she is facing. Each meeting is confidential within the board members. Business coaching: one-to-one with a trained facilitator-who is not there to tell you how to run your business but act as a sounding board and to challenge and stimulate your thinking. Business Improvement tools: developed over the past 20 years and include business diagnostic and planning tools developed specifically for small businesses.
Scott Paterson: “New Zealand and Australia are very different markets.”
Delight with The Alternative Board’s input
Classique founder Lee Crook and Scott Litherland,Manager, finance and operations; they now have the personnel package for growth.
urgent issues and address them directly and openly. “You could say that I have gone through a process of knowing my strengths and what skills I need to take the business further,” she said. “Additional input to financial management is what we need now considering the level of demand we are enjoying.”
Bakers Delight is a global company with over $500 million in annual sales and more than 700 outlets world-wide. In New Zealand, there are 31 Bakers Delight bakeries and there is a plan for 50 more bakeries. Scott has the title of country manager but also owns two Bakers Delight stores. He joined The Alternative Board in the middle of 2012 so he could obtain “New Zealand input for New Zealand issues”. “New Zealand and Australia are different markets in many ways,” said Scott. “So, with the consent of my Australian directors, I joined The Alternative Board.” “The Alternative Board has given me the opportunity to tackle business challenges with input from fellow New Zealand board members.” “My fellow Alternative Board “directors” are all from different businesses but they have all faced challenges relevant to Bakers Delight. I have been very impressed with the advice I have received.” “Stephen James, my TAB facilitator, is a rare breed of corporate player who has had skin in the game. He understands business 101,” said Scott. Scott says Bakers Delight franchisees invest between $300,000 and $350,000 for a turnkey retail bakery. The chain has attracted people from all kinds of professions and trades.
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Banking with BNZ
Garry Monk.
Coaching, Connecting, Challenging... Gary Monk’s passionate about his Chairman’s role at BNZ Partner’s North Shore Coaching, connecting and challenging. That’s the important roles local businessman Gary Monk is playing as Chairman of BNZ Partners North Shore. He is one of 16 BNZ Partners chair persons throughout the country. North Shore was the first BNZ Partners Centre launched in New Zealand, and has been the blueprint for refining the Partners Centre proposition, and getting customer feedback, as the concept has been rolled out throughout New Zealand. If you haven’t been to take a look at this facility, you should do. It is impressive. It is on the third floor of one of the Candida Office Park buildings on Constellation Drive. There are now 31 centres throughout
Call us on 0800 955 455 Visit bnzpartners.co.nz
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the country. As well as being the home of a team of 30 plus people, with expertise across business banking, property finance, private banking, asset finance, trade finance and commercial insurance, BNZ Partners North Shore is also a facility that hosts many business networking events and is happily shared with BNZ Partners’ customers. Described as ‘an office away from the office’ with boardroom and office facilities available for all BNZ Partners’ customers. Being chairman of BNZ Partners North Shore is a role that Gary Monk is passionate about. He has been a customer of BNZ all through his life, becoming a business customer when he first set up his own business Intersea, 30 years ago, back in 1983. He was approached by foundation
BNZ Partners North Shore Managing Partner Richard Ede to take on the Chairman’s role shortly after the facility was set up three years ago. Gary Monk has lived on the North Shore for 40 years. As well as being heavily involved in the fishing industry – through his fish trading enterprise Intersea – Gary is also heavily involved in governance of a range of business and not-for-profit organisations. The organisations include New Zealand Light Leathers, Mathias International, Radio New Zealand and the North Harbour Club and Charitable Trust. In 2010 he was inducted into the North Shore Business Hall of Fame, a prestigious accolade that celebrates local business people whose exceptional individual efforts in business epitomises business excellence. “As chairman, my role is to mentor and coach the BNZ Partners North Shore team,” explains Gary Monk. “Helping to build the leadership
Part of what I do is challenging their thinking, being a sounding board for initiatives and strategies and ensuring they are thinking outside of the square. I think it is healthy having an alternative viewpoint from somebody who brings experience to the table and isn’t a banker. capability of Managing and Senior Partners while supporting personal growth and development. I get a real thrill out of working with all members of the team and watching them all put real runs on the board. Part of what I do is challenging their thinking, being a sounding board for initiatives and strategies and ensuring they are thinking outside of the square. I think it is healthy having an alternative viewpoint from somebody who brings experience to the table and isn’t a banker.” “The connecting part of the role is hugely important. I assist with
ensuring the bank is connecting with the business community, the wider community and with individuals. The uniqueness of the whole thing is using the chair’s in each area to reach out to the community to make sure the bank is remaining relevant to its specific location, which obviously differs throughout the country. My own belief is that the bank has a role to play across a wide spectrum in the community and I love being part of that process on the Shore. Recent BNZ initiatives I have been part of include connecting with young people through education and also working with the disability sector.” “There is also a need to ensure we are connecting the business operations of the bank with our local BNZ retail banking stores. These are fantastic facilities and remain a key part of ensuring we provide a seamless link of banking support within our community.” “A very important part of the chair’s role is using our experience to challenge what the team and individuals are doing. Bringing diversity of thought and an external perspective to the business, challenging traditional paradigms and ensuring there is a commercial edge to the overall thinking.” “Having been in business for the best part of four decades my experience can also add value to help the team understand clients strategies and financial objectives. This can lead to providing outcomes for customers that they wouldn’t normally associate with a traditional bank.” BNZ Partners Managing Partner Lyndon Settle works closely with Gary Monk and values his contribution. “Gary’s experience working in corporate and governance roles across New Zealand allows him to regularly challenge our traditional bankers mindset to think and behave more like a business owner. We are privileged to have such a business and community man leading and supporting our business on the North Shore” The 16 BNZ Partners Chairpersons throughout the country are:- Northland - Greg Gent; North Shore - Gary Monk; West Auckland - Bob Harvey; Auckland CBD - John Waller; South Auckland- John Bongard; Waikato - Mike Pohio; Bay of Plenty - Dame Susan Devoy; Central Plateau - Joe La Grouw; East Coast - John Newland; Taranaki/Manuwatu - Craig MacFarlane; Wellington - Kerry McDonald; Top of the South - John McCliskie; Canterbury - Philip Aldridge; South Canterbury - Trevor Croy; Otago/Southland - Lindsay Brown. For more information contact:- BNZ Partners, North Shore; Candida Office Park, Building 1, Level 3, 61 Constellation Drive, North Shore. Phone 0800 273 916 or Visit www.bnzpartners.co.nz
Lyndon Settle.
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Wines With Liz Wheadon, Glengarry Wines
Our monthly Channel Wine & Food columnist is Liz Wheadon, General Manager of Glengarry Wines. Liz is also a passionate foodie. Weekends are often spent first planning the event and then entertaining friends and family with magnificent food and wine experiences.
Celebrating Pinot Noir Late January just over 500 delegates from all corners of the globe descended on our favourite party city to explore this year’s celebration, with the catch cry – New Depths, New Characters, New Zealand. This was the fifth New Zealand Pinot Celebration, an event that has been cemented on the international wine calendar. Over four days delegates tasted their way through hundreds of Pinot Noir from the various New Zealand wine regions, discussed topical issues and debated each regions merits and direction at length. Glengarry is proud to be the retail partner for the event, we sent a team down to join in the festivities and report back on what they found. The New Zealand Pinot Noir selected for our March promotions represent some of the collective high points from the celebration and you can check out our thoughts on www.aboutwine.co.nz our new blog site. On the last day of the celebration there was an impressive Burgundy 2010 tasting. When exploring and reviewing your progress it never hurts to check in on the old world, Burgundy after all is the ancestral home of Pinot Noir. Our Burgundy 2010 Fine Wine Offer is now available (as are many of the wines) you can read the full offer on our web site www.glengarrywines.co.nz/ burgundy2010. One of my main take homes from the event was the marked regional and sub regional differences that we are more clearly than ever seeing in the wines. Producing 10% of New Zealand’s Pinot Noir, Martinborough is considered as one of our pioneering Pinot Noir regions and is home to Mr Pinot Noir himself, Larry McKenna. The heart of the region is a South facing valley; in recent years the region has changed considerably and one of the most noticeable was the distinction between the Martinborough Terrace wines and Te Muna. This is not in itself surprising when you consider the variation in soil types, Martinborough Terrace is an old river bed, with a lot more alluvial soils in Te Muna. As a general rule you’ll find the wines from Te Muna much more broad and brooding, with those from the terrace being earthy, savoury, textured and more ethereal. Nelson is another of our pioneers, there’s been great Pinot Noir produced in Nelson for many years; sitting at only 4% of the countries production of Pinot Noir, we don’t tend to see a lot of it around. It’s not known as sunny 667
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Nelson for nothing, this region is the warmest of the areas in New Zealand where Pinot Noir is produced. Whilst quite a small region, particularly in comparison to its neighbour, there are two distinct styles that seem to come from here and represent the wines grown on the plains vs. those in the hills. A maritime climate, Marlborough consists of various valleys and now spans quite a distance. More recently a larger portion of the Pinot Noir grown in Marlborough has been produced from fruit grown on the hill sides at the back of the valleys, Pinot Noir certainly likes it here. Waipara and North Canterbury are making huge leaps forward; in North Canterbury, where there are currently two vineyards, there is potentially some of the greatest future potential. The soil make up through this area is gravel, limestone and clay, the vineyards in the north having a higher percentage of limestone. You’d think with all the noise from Central Otago that more of the production comes from here – it is probably the loud shirts and personalities from the folk there that you are hearing. There’s 29% of Pinot Noir production coming out of Central Otago – including Waitaki. With its extremes in weather, Pinot Noir likes living here, loving the free draining soil and difficult terrain.
Corporate Apparel and Promo Items: Davis Doherty Corporate Apparel Superstore
It has undoubtedly been a record summer with beautiful hot weather that has allowed us to enjoy the holiday break with plenty of sunshine. The new year has been no different and we continue to experience warm temperatures which means we can still wear light comfortable clothing for a few more weeks yet!
Summer Sale Davis Doherty has again featured polo shirts on our back cover advertisement this month with a particular focus on the Sporte Leisure brand. Sporte Leisure is a premium upmarket polo for the discerning customer who is looking for that extra dimension in style, comfort and performance. Pricing is also competitive for a polo of this quality as comparable products in retail and golf shops sell for twice the price. There is an impressive range of styles and colours in our showroom and polo enthusiasts will not be disappointed. Polos are very versatile - they look smart , they feel great on, you can dress them up or down , the choices are endless, and they are affordable. And Davis Doherty has the biggest range of corporate and sports polos in New Zealand!
Road in Albany, please do call in. You don’t need an appointment, you will always receive a warm welcome and we are sure that the garment displays in our extensive showroom will inspire you with fresh ideas for your company. Visit Davis Doherty online at www.davisdoherty.co.nz (they have a great website) or drop in and say hello to Tony Oldham at their corporate apparel superstore: Davis Doherty, 237 Bush Road, Albany.
Davis Doherty has the biggest range of corporate and sports polos in New Zealand! Summer is also about sales (as well as sails), and here at Davis Doherty we are offering quality business shirts at specially marked down prices great buying for stocking up on your corporate wardrobe for the new year ahead. A sample of our range is featured here. Prices start as low as $20.00! With new styles and ranges coming in there will always be the traditional lines that are to be replaced, and so Davis Doherty has set up a new Clearance Shop at its offices in 237 Bush Road Albany. There is a very large range of polos, T-shirts, polar fleeces, jackets, vests, caps, beanies and even overnight and computer bags. This a great opportunity for customers to take advantage of end of line garments that have been heavily discounted to clear. So while they are choosing a new branded uniform for their company, customers can also find something for themselves at a great price! Finally, we have also been able to secure an end of line shipment of Jack Sole of Steel boots. These are rugged leather work boots with not only a steel cap but also a steel mid-sole for extra protection from sharp objects underfeet. We are offering these at $86.25 (normal retail is $200). For those of you who have not yet visited our showroom at 237 Bush
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Now you can easily target North Shore people & business!
Target Shore Business The Business Channel. Published Bi-monthly, 10,450 copies posted and distributed to businesses North Shore wide. NORTH SHORE’S BUSINESS MAGAZINE
THE ESS BUSIN
Channel Magazine. Published monthly, 24,260 copies distributed to homes and businesses in Devonport, Bayswater, Belmont, Takapuna, Milford, Forrest Hill, Westlake, Castor Bay, Campbells Bay, Mairangi Bay, Murrays Bay, Northcote Point, Birkenhead Point and to selected businesses outside these areas.
www.channelmag.co.nz For all enquiries contact: Aidan Bennett, aidan@benefitz.co.nz, 021-500-997 Proudly published and printed by
THE BUSINESS CHANNEL
Wednesday March 6th Business Excellence Network Breakfast Time: 7:30am - 9:00am Venue: Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna Speaker: Simon Challies Managing Director, Ryman Healthcare Group Price: $65 + GST Every second month more than 170 business owners and senior business managers gather for breakfast to network and enjoy a keynote speaker. Sponsored jointly by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, Westpac, BDO and Schnauer & Co, the breakfasts are a hugely successful meeting ground for business owners; introductions during the breakfast further increase networking benefits. Visit: www.businessaucklandnz.com Thursday March 14th Westpac Auckland North Business Awards - Launch (Albany) This two-hour event marks the start of the awards season. This cocktail style event is the official launch event, marking the start of the awards season. Join us at this free evening session to hear from past entrants, learn tips for entering this year and enjoy the company of other local business people. Cost: Free Venue: North Harbour Stadium, Albany Visit: www.businessaucklandnz.com Wednesday March 20th Westpac Auckland North Business Awards - Launch (Rodney) This two-hour event marks the start of the awards season. This cocktail style event is the official launch event, marking the start of the awards season. Join us at this free evening session to hear from past entrants, learn tips for entering this year and enjoy the company of other local business people. Cost: Free Venue: Silverdale United Rugby Football Club, Silverdale Visit: www.businessaucklandnz.com
Target Shore People
54
Upcoming Events & Important Dates
Issue 10 - March 2013
March 22nd - 24th North Shore Home & Garden Show 2013 Cost: Adult - $8.00 Under 16 Free Venue: North Shore Events Centre, 10:00am - 5:00pm Visit: www.businessaucklandnz.com Thursday April 4th Westpac Auckland North Business Awards - Workshop These essential sessions will show you how easy and fun writing your entry can be… or at least guide you through the process. Sign up for one of these workshops and learn tips and information on how to write an accurate, robust and compelling entry. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and share ideas with other entrants. 5pm-7pm Cost: Free Venue: To be confirmed Visit: www.businessaucklandnz.com Friday April 5th Starting Off Right Seminar (North) Starting Off Right is a seminar for local Auckland start-up businesses to empower, inform and help with networking. Many new businesses struggle due to a variety of challenges that could have been avoided or handled better. If additional time is taken - by following the Starting off Right programme - in
upskilling, planning and preparing for possible hurdles, success is more likely. This four hour workshop will provide information about the many concerns business owners have when starting a business. It also provides an opportunity to network with others who have similar queries and challenges. 9.15am to 1pm Cost: Free Venue: ATEED Offices, Candida Office Park, Constellation Drive, North Shore Wednesday May 8th Business Excellence Network Breakfast Every second month more than 170 business owners and senior business managers gather for breakfast to network and enjoy a keynote speaker. Sponsored jointly by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, Westpac, BDO and Schnauer & Co, the breakfasts are a hugely successful meeting ground for business owners; introductions during the breakfast further increase networking benefits. Time: 7:30am - 9:00am Venue: Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna Speaker: Jane Hastings, CEO, Radio Network New Zealand Cost: $65 + GST Visit: www.businessaucklandnz.com Thursday May 9th & Thursday June 6th Westpac Auckland North Business Awards - Workshop These essential sessions will show you how easy and fun writing your entry can be… or at least guide you through the process. Sign up for one of these workshops and learn tips and information on how to write an accurate, robust and compelling entry. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and share ideas with other entrants. 5pm-7pm Cost: Free Venue: To be confirmed Visit: www.businessaucklandnz.com Friday May 10th North Harbour Club Lexus of North Shore Charity ‘Foodie’ Lunch Another great fun event this time especially for the ladies, but not exclusively, of course the men are welcome. MC: Carly Flynn 12 noon Cost: $100 plus GST per ticket ($90 plus GST per ticket for table of 10) Venue: Spencer on Byron Hotel, Takapuna Visit: www.northharbourclub.co.nz Friday June 7th Starting Off Right Seminar (North) Starting Off Right is a seminar for local Auckland start-up businesses to empower, inform and help with networking. Many new businesses struggle due to a variety of challenges that could have been avoided or handled better. If additional time is taken - by following the Starting off Right programme - in upskilling, planning and preparing for possible hurdles, success is more likely. This four hour workshop will provide information about the many concerns business owners have when starting a business. It also provides an opportunity to network with others who have similar queries and challenges. 9.15am to 1pm Cost: Free Venue: ATEED Offices, Candida Office Park, Constellation Drive, North Shore
FRANCHISE
Bayleys North Shore Commercial
OF THE YEAR
Devereux Howe-Smith Realty Ltd.
WINNER 2011
BIG ON the North Shore
We’re big on marketing Commercial property on the North Shore Bayleys North Shore Commercial handles commercial, retail and
Commercial - For Sale or Lease
industrial property sales and leasing in the thriving business sector of
Industrial - For Sale or Lease
Auckland’s North Shore. We are full service real estate agents, and as
Retail - For Sale or Lease
one of the foremost property companies in New Zealand, we offer the
Investments
highest professional standard of service for your real estate needs. We welcome your interest in our company and look forward to serving your total property requirements. Bayleys North Shore Commercial has the North Shore market covered with 18 specialists who are qualified to meet your real estate needs.
www.bayleysnorthshore.co.nz
Devereux Howe-Smith Realty Limited Bayleys, Licensed under the REA Act 2008 16 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland 0622 PO Box 331 541, Takapuna, Auckland 0740 Tel: +64 9 489 0999 Fax: +64 9 489 0990 northshorecommercial@bayleys.co.nz
Open to the public. No minimum orders.
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