Business Channel

INSIDE

12,450

FEATURE INTERVIEWS

with the Award Winners.

12,450 copies posted and distributed to Businesses North Auckland wide.

NOVEMBER 2011 - ISSUE 4

OUT & ABOUT ON BUSINESS

on the Shore

The Business Channel is published bi-monthly, 5 issues a year – February, May, July, September and November.

FEATURE COLUMNS

from business specialists

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EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT with DAVID FORMAN

DELIVER ON YOUR PROMISES…

Olivia Blaylock is the Managing Director of David Forman and FranklinCovey, the leading independent, New Zealand-owned provider of sales, leadership and personal effectiveness training.

and more!

A few Sunday evenings ago, I headed to my local supermarket to buy a few bits and pieces for the schools lunches the next day. I love being a parent but making school lunches is part of it that I don’t enjoy. At all. I never seem to have the right stuff in the pantry and although I’d consider myself a pretty creative person, I’m buggered if I can come up with anything original to send the lad off to school with that’s both healthy and something that he’ll actually eat.

On this particular occasion, price wasn’t really important – it was all about convenience and getting it over and done with. Frustratingly, it wasn’t quite so straight forward, as although the supermarket didn’t shut for more than two hours, the deli was closed, some fruit and veges were packed away and most of the bread was sold!

Sure I could have been more organised and done my shopping earlier, but I honestly didn’t think there was any need – remember that it was 2 and half hours before the shop shut, not only a few moments!

I know there are bigger problems to worry about but my point, and it’s relevant for all of us in business, is make sure you can actually deliver to your customers (at the very least) what they’re expecting. The supermarket is open until 10pm – this was before 8pm. My expectation was I could get these products at this time.

Sadly, the experience I had isn’t unique and is comparable to many in all sectors of business within New Zealand. Stories shared with friends and colleagues tell of similar tales from other retailers, to telcos, to insurance companies. Companies that externally promise one thing but fail to deliver.

Large budgets spent on advertising campaigns could often be better spent (or at least backed up) by being channelled into making sure you have the team that can deliver the promise you communicate. Effective training to front-line sales and customer service staff that results in behaviours which improve the customers experience, pay for themselves in no time.

In this highly competitive world, understanding and meeting our customers’ needs is the bare minimum required. That get’s you the possibility of repeat business down the track – unless someone else has a better deal at the time! The real nirvana is when we can exceed our customers’ expectations – not only do they come back habitually (often overlooking better prices elsewhere), but they often go a step further. As it seems to be so rare for customers to have their expectations exceeded, they commonly tell others of this strange experience they’ve had! So, not only do we get a happy and loyal customer, they’re also doing part of our job by spreading the word on how good we are – heaven!!!

It’s not actually that hard to get it right. Convince the reluctant shopper in me that the experience isn’t actually all that bad, you’ve got what I need and it’s easy to do business with you. Make me want to come back the next Sunday night and the one after.

And this last weekend, after a stressful last 20 minutes waiting for the ABs to take out the World Cup, and too many celebratory drinks later, when all I wanted to do was watch repeats of Richie finally getting his hands on that cup, unsurprisingly I did my shopping elsewhere.

So, what about you? What are you promising your customers?

And more importantly, do you have the right team to deliver on and even exceed those promises?

PS. In New Zealand we’re quick to complain to our friends but not to the people concerned. This is an area where we love to work with businesses – there’s nothing more satisfying that turning complaints into compliments! How can they improve if they don’t know our thoughts? So I sent them an email about my experience. 6 weeks later I’d had no reply…

After 40 years, we’re showing cross training in a whole new light.

Just as it does in physical conditioning, cross training is key to developing well rounded business fitness.

At David Forman, we deliver a versatile range of tools and the inspiration to staff and leaders alike, that enable them to outperform their competitors and their own expectations.

Whether it’s in a modestly sized business or a multinational enterprise, David Forman’s real-world programmes improve

business fitness, leading step by step toward each individual’s personal best.

And as the New Zealand licencee for the world renowned FranklinCovey programmes including “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” and superb time management and leadership programmes, we offer a unique and proven path to outstanding personal and organisational success.

To discover how David Forman’s 40 years of cross training expertise can help you and your team to improve performance and results, call 09 912 9770, or visit davidforman.co.nz.

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

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OUT & ABOUT ON BUSINESS ON THE SHORE National Training Centre for High Performance Sport – Opening

Dr Jacques Rogge, President of the International Olympic Committee officially opened the National Training Centre for High Performance Sport at the AUT Millennium Campus in Mairangi Bay on Friday October 21st.

The guest list was a who’s who of New Zealand sport.

Barbara Kendell, Owen Glenn.

Michelle and Peter Wall.

Brian Hughes, John Fahey, Frank Van Hattum, David Howman, Grant McKavanagh.

Rebecca Dubber, Daniel Holt.

Dr Jacques Rogge.

Jame Schofield, Lyle Williams, Henry Duncan.

Viven Bridgewater, Penelope Barr Sellers, Chris Klaassen, Nigel Murphy, Aimee Driscoll.

Maria Clarke, Dave Currie, Richard Leggett.

Tom Cashen, Len Brown, Todd Morris.

George Wood, Roy Tiffin.

Rick Ellis , Peter Montgomorey.

Serena and Adam Storey, Tracey Lambrechs.

Jan Cameron, Rick Ellis, Michelle Wilson.

Sir Richard Branson LAUNCHES BUSINESS CHALLENGE ON

TAKAPUNA BEACH

Sir Richard Branson joined Andrew Thorburn (BNZ CEO) and Rob Fyfe (Air New Zealand CEO) on Friday October 21st to launch the BNZ Virgin Business Challenge on Takapuna Beach.

Sir Richard was welcomed with a Powhiri and by Mayor Len Brown, followed by a media conference before taking part in a Sealegs Amphibious Boat time trial competition with Thorburn and Fyfe.

Branson finished third, however later claimed the others had cheated.

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THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

OUT & ABOUT ON BUSINESS ON THE SHORE John Kirwan at the Millennium Institute of Sport and Health Local East Coast Bays MP and Cabinet Minister Murray McCully held a campaign luncheon at the Millennium Institute of Sport & Health in Mairangi Bay on Friday October 14th. Guest speaker was All Blacks legend and Japan coach John Kirwan who was a very impressive presenter.

Graham Hill, Don McKenzie, Malcolm Carr.

Trish Blackmore, Graham Rae, Shirley Williams.

Chris and Moray Todd.

Julia McKenzie, Stephanie McKenzie.

Bruce and Angela Spooner.

Natalie Robertson, Stephen Moore.

Ken Erskine, Robbie Paul, Brian Casey, Ron Clerke.

Peter Douglas, Mark Sorensen, Michelle Khan.

Bob Leveloff, Caroline Speedy, Charles Speedy.

Mo Khan, Graham Bruce, Jim Van Tilborg, John Borsboon.

David Jones, John Kirwan, Murray McCully.

Emerging Talent Awards 2011

The North Harbour Club AIMES Emerging Talent Awards for 2011 – sponsored by Hayes Knight – were presented at a function at The Spencer on Byron Hotel in Takapuna on Wednesday October 26th. These awards are the forerunner to the annual AIMES Awards which were held on Saturday October 29th. The Hayes Knight Emerging Talent Awards recognise the high levels of achievement of ‘emerging’ talented individuals from our region. Six young people each received the award and $5000 to go towards their careers – see full details later in this issue.

Seok Jun Bing (award recipient), Gi Myung Bing, Ijin Jeong.

Nola Real, Shelley-ann Brinkley, Barbara Wheadon.

Liam Kelly-Costello, Katherine Kelly, Margaret McNie, Aine Kelly-Costello (award recipient).

Boris Wilkitzki, Jana Korbasona, Donna Steven Perreau.

Sue Stanaway, Prudence Foster, Durham Foster.

Gary Simpson, Diane Simpson, Ken Paterson.

Elizabeth Ogle, Emmersen Foster, Alexandra Foster (award recipient), Richard Light.

Matthew Bellingham, Kris MacCauley, Derek Powell.

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

Peter Wall and Bob Jago.

THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

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OUT & ABOUT ON BUSINESS ON THE SHORE 2011 North Harbour Club AIMES Awards The annual North Harbour Club AIMES Awards Gala Dinner was held at the Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna on Saturday October 29th. The North Harbour Club rewards excellence achieved by the young people of the North Harbour region in the areas of the Arts; IT, Innovation & Science; Music; Education; Sport; Service to the Community.

This year $110,000 was awarded to 13 young people in the AIMES Awards and Emerging Talent Awards. The Business Channel camera was part of the action.

Judy and Trevor Cooling.

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Janine and Steven Jurkovich.

Ken and Sue Noble.

Bryan and Cherie Perron, Bex and Krista, David and Delwyn Argar.

Joan Finlayson, Catherine Jenkins, Flip and Arlo Calkoen.

Darrel Kingham, Robert and Christine Gratton.

Richard Ede, Aidan Bennett, Kerry McLeod.

Ulla Bennett, Michelle Bennett, Tammy McLeod.

Kerry and Linda Dines, David and Michelle Abercombie.

Christine Maud, Robyn Spooner, Mary Delamare, Wendy Stedman, Barbara Collie.

Lesleigh and Robert Johnson.

Sharon Davis and Dean Flyger.

Penina Felise-Mackay, Shane and Nicola Manoa, Moses Mackay.

Moses Mackay and Joseph Bergin.

Penny Roberts, Duncan Reid, Evelyn Johnson, Ralph Roberts.

Jayne and Peter White.

THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

IN THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

…

The Benefitz Business Channel team: (from left) Jared Trice, Lee Darby, Helen Boswell, Aidan Bennett, Ulla Bennett & Michael Campbell, Absent: Dustin Bisschoff & Mary Bukovac.

ANYBODY HAVE

the answer?

Welcome to our November 2011 issue of The Business Channel. Our final issue of the magazine for what has been a pretty challenging year for business.

In this editorial I thought I might pose a question that somebody out there might be able to provide me with an answer for. Something that has been bothering me for quite a while. The question is quite simple, and direct, and might not be expected from one involved in private enterprise. It is... At a time when business is so tough for most retailers and those selling goods in New Zealand, why do we continue to let people buy goods from offshore websites without imposing a duty that protects businesses and jobs of New Zealanders? I know this is a bit of a hot potato, but if we let the status quo remain then our New Zealand retail sector, the businesses and the jobs of thousands will slowly continue to dwindle. If we don’t do something our main streets and shopping malls in a decade will just be food outlets, beauty and hair salons. While the answer I am alluding to will be viewed as protectionism, I do believe it is just common sense. The bottom line is that people buying locally creates local jobs and local wealth. Buying from an offshore website does zilch for the local economy or our people. A simple minimum duty would surely mean that people would not buy the smaller items, sold traditionally by main street retailers, offshore.

Maybe I’m missing something?

On a positive note how fantastic was the Rugby World Cup for the country? All of those involved in organising the event should give themselves a big pat on the back.

It was superb – topped off by a great final result!.

Enjoy reading your November issue of The Business Channel which is full of businesses north of the Harbour Bridge doing great things. Life is pretty good now that we have the Webb Ellis Trophy locked away for the next four years!

Have a great festive season.

- Aidan and the team at Benefitz Email: aidan@benefitz.co.nz Twitter: @AidanLBennett / @channelmag

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.

Aidan Bennett Publisher/Advertising DDI: 477 4701 Cell: 021 500 997 aidan@benefitz.co.nz

Ulla Bennett Advertising/ Photographer Cell: 021 411 667 ulla@benefitz.co.nz

1 TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT with David Forman 2 OUT & ABOUT on Business on the Shore 5 In THE BUSINESS CHANNEL 6 ATEED News 7 Spotlight on Exporting 9 Mastering the Art of Leadership 10 FEATURE INTERVIEW Spice n Easy - Best Start Up Business Award Winner 2011 12 FEATURE INTERVIEW Ecoflow - Best Emerging Business Award Winner 2011 14 Millennium Institute of Sport & Health News 17 MOBILE MARKETING with imageTag 18 FEATURE INTERVIEW Apollo Marketing - Excellence in Technology Award Winner 2011 - Excellence in Innovation Award Winner 2011 20 Banking with Westpac 21 THE LEGAL COLUMN with Schnauer & Co 22 LION FOUNDATION YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCHEME 24 WINES with Glengarry Wines Supplement: Colliers North Shore Commercial and Industrial Selection 37 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT COACHING with Optimum People 38 Draft Auckland Plan Submission 40 UNITEC News 43 THE CREATIVE COLUMN with Plus1 Creative 44 NORTH HARBOUR CLUB AIMES Awards 2011 46 EDUCATION with Peter Clague, Kristin School 48 BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION with Phil brosnan 49 Ensuring Business Continuity

with PLAN-B 50 ACCOUNTANCY BEYOND THE NUMBERS with Hayes Knight 52 THE BURNING ISSUES - Local Business Associations 55 CORPORATE APPAREL & PROMO ITEMS

with DavisDoherty 56 SOCIAL MEDIA MENTIONS 57 FUNCTIONS & EVENTS with The Spencer on Byron Hotel, Takapuna 58 North Harbour Business Association Update 59 LEGAL BRIEF with Lynch & Co 60 Upcoming Events & Important Dates

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Ltd www.ens.org.nz / Ph (09) 414 1341.

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

Michael Campbell Journalist DDI: 477 4754 michael@benefitz.co.nz

Mary Bukovac Advertising/Content Coordinator DDI: 477 4706 mary@benefitz.co.nz

Jared Trice Graphic Designer 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 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

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A MESSAGE FROM NGAIO...

Can anyone believe it is November? We all know the years accelerate, but I’m sure this one has almost vaporised before our eyes! Here we are in the middle of spring, Christmas is fast approaching and 2012 is just around the corner.

Traditionally this is the ideal time to look back at the year, reassess our goals and look forward to the hope and potential of a New Year. This is a great chance to do the same for our businesses.

ATEED has a range of valuable tools to help you examine the state of your business right now, make a plan for the future and push your venture to its true potential.

In this issue we put the spotlight on exporting which is a fundamental avenue for business growth. Check it out, and if exporting is on your New Year wish list, give us a call. We’ll help plot a path to get your business on track for growth and further success.

Also check out the next generation of business leaders as we profile some of this year’s extraordinary young entrepreneurs in the Young Enterprise Scheme. This valuable programme moulds the business skills of secondary school kids by giving them real life experience running a business. Take a close look at the names of these bright young business people – we’re sure you will see them again in the future.

We’re delighted to bring you another edition of The Business Channel. We’ll see you early in 2012. Enjoy!

Happy reading.

Ngaio Ngaio Merrick is Business Development Manager for North Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Limited - North Office. Email: ngaio.merrick@ens.org.nz

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THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

SPOTLIGHT on EXPORTING In today’s economic landscape, there is a lot of talk about exporting and how it is the lynch pin for business success…

SPOTLIGHT ON EXPORTING It’s true that exporting can be a magnificent way to grow a business and open the doors to a much larger market than can be found in New Zealand. In fact there are approximately 7 billion people in the world waiting to discover your business. Is it worth the risk? And is it what you need to expand your business into a more successful venture or a global empire?

There is no easy answer, but it is widely recognised that increasing the number and quality of export companies in New Zealand will expedientially boost the national economy as well as the productivity of those individual companies. As a general rule, companies that export are more successful than nonexporters. So let’s look at some of the benefits and risks of venturing in to trade with the global market.

Benefits of exporting • Can increase product demand. This can increase profit and can trigger greater productivity in your business.

• Expands horizons. Opening the door to a bigger market is always going to create more opportunities for your business. The possibilities could be endless!

• Diversification. If you rely only on your domestic market, what happens when the market changes, you lose a major client or the economy spirals downhill? By increasing your markets overseas, it can offset individual problems in any one market and reduces dependency on the domestic market.

• Stimulates growth. I f you have more demand for your product and service, obviously the potential is there for an increase in profit, and a need for more staff, and resources in your business.

• Helps you avoid seasonal slumps. If your business sells more product in winter or summer, there is no need for ‘downtime’ if you target countries with varying climates and opposite seasons to New Zealand.

Risks of exporting These risks are not insurmountable, but proper research and advice should be sought to navigate and lessen their effects.

• Inadequate resources. Breaking in to a new market can be time consuming and labour intensive, which will only intensify once demand increases for your product or service.

This could put pressure on your raw materials, financial and staffing resources.

• Legalities. Each country has its own rules and regulations including quarantine compliances relating to exporting and importing. Make sure you seek legal advice from a legal expert in your chosen market. You will want to avoid facing legal action or fines if you inadvertently disregard the requirements overseas.

• Financial considerations. It’s important to be fully aware of any potential pitfalls like extending credit in a new market, and how fluctuations in foreign exchange can affect your profit margins.

• Cultural and language barriers. It is essential to completely understand any cultural and language nuances like correct business etiquette and social faux pas. To be accepted in a new environment (whether it’s you or your business) it is important to make an effort to conform to the way of the locals. This will make your introduction to the country much easier and will pave the way for your business to grow.

• IP issues. Don’t open yourself to the risk of your product or service being copied in your new market. Ensure you seek full advice on securing your intellectual property and protect your competitive advantage in all countries you are targeting.

This is only a brief list of pros and cons of throwing your exporting hat into the ring. To explore exporting and other areas of growth for your business, sign up to Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development’s (ATEED) complimentary Business Assistance Programme.

ATEED has teamed up with some big government players - New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE) and the Ministry of Science and Innovation (MSI) - to support business growth and innovation across the region through this new programme.

For more information and how it can help with your business plans visit: www.ens.org.nz/grow

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 We have 25 years of experience     We staff 18 offices throughout Australasia     We were appointed the official Olympic Bureau by the IOC       Best service/product in the industry (Mice.net magazine 2010) We treat you  as no. 1 and understand your requirements       We have the most dynamic list of exclusive speakers and entertainers You are in safe hands we help ensure that your event is successful

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Congratulations to the 2011 winners and finalists: Westpac Supreme Business Excellence Award Winner: AFT Pharmaceuticals 3M Excellence in Innovation Award Apollo Entertainment Limited WINNER EverEdgeIP Limited Spice n Easy Shrinkforce ACC Excellence in Workplace Safety Award Babcock Fitzroy Ltd WINNER Panacea Healthcare Limited North Star Actionmail Excellence in Marketing Award Windowmakers Ltd WINNER Edible Blooms New Zealand Cabins To Go Ltd Orewa United Travel Real TV Ltd Auckland Chamber of Commerce Best Emerging Business Award Ecoflow Limited WINNER Plan-b Limited Project Floors (NZ) Ltd Shrinkforce SnapComms Benefitz Best Startup Business Award Spice n Easy WINNER 100% Nutz Ltd Apollo Entertainment Limited Edible Blooms New Zealand Maintain to Profit Blackcat Consulting Employer of Choice Award Naylor Love Construction Limited WINNER Kelly Services NZ Ltd Warehouse Stationery Limited Web Drive Limited

EasiYo Excellence in Exporting Award Modtec Industries Ltd WINNER North Shore International Academy (NSIA) SnapComms Massey University Excellence in Sustainability Award MW Cleaning Services WINNER Enlightenz NZ Limited Naylor Love Construction Limited Solution Dynamics Limited Ministry of Science and Innovation Excellence in Design, Research & Development Award AFT Pharmaceuticals Ltd WINNER 100% Nutz Ltd Explorer Boats NZ Limited Mitre 10 Excellence in Service Delivery Award Lexel Systems Limited WINNER Kelly Services NZ Ltd Pakiri Beach Horse Rides Windowmakers Ltd Zero Down Limited North Shore Times Excellence in Not for Profit Award Bruce Mason Centre WINNER Age Concern Rodney Inc. Harbour Sport Spyglass Excellence in Technology Award Apollo Entertainment Limited WINNER Labyrinth Solutions Ltd Plan-b Limited Zero Down Limited

www.ens.org.nz/awards

MASTERING THE ART OF LEADERSHIP

Mastering the art of

LEADERSHIP Over the past few weeks 16 international rugby teams have entertained us with their talents, successes and challenges. The one thing they all have in common? Their performances were reliant on good leadership. Whether it’s the coach, management or team captain each team depended on solid direction from its leader to successfully perform on the field.

Your business is no different. Someone needs to lead by example, set the direction of the team, communicate the game plan and encourage everyone to work towards a common goal. It’s important to remember that there are many different types of leadership styles and no one way is correct. Different people will respond to different methods, the trick is to find what works for you. Done correctly, leadership can mould ordinary staff members into engaged and committed business allies.

Here are a couple of tips to mastering the art of leadership.

1. Communication – Not surprisingly, this is one of the most essential elements of any style of leadership. Being able to communicate effectively, efficiently and regularly is crucial. Keeping your team informed and up to date with everything from directives and policies to the new coffee machine in the lunchroom will keep them engaged, informed and most importantly, feeling like a valued member of the team. It’s not just about speaking; it’s also about listening to the team and their ideas, concerns and suggestions.

2. Personal integrity – It is great to talk about company values, because that is important for everyone to know, but unless you lead by example and show the personal character that you expect from your employees, don’ expect a good outcome.

3. Finish what you start – Don’t instigate new ideas if you are not prepared to see them through. This can signal a lack of commitment to the team and the business. If you walk the talk, your team are more likely to adopt the same approach.

4. Guide, don’t dictate. While sometimes it is important to lay down the law, leadership can be far more effective if you guide your team rather than dictating how it’s going to be. Most people will respond better to this inclusive approach.

5. Show appreciation – taking the time to acknowledge a job well done doesn’t cost anything but a few minutes of your time. Everyone likes to know they are appreciated. If the budget allows it, why not reward exceptional performances with a movie voucher or gift voucher.

Feeling appreciated (outside of a salary or wage) is great for retaining staff and keeping them engaged with the business. It’s also a great motivator for the team.

6. Be open to new ideas – Your staff may have opinions or ideas for new ways of doing things within the business. Listening to these suggestions and even implementing some will show that you are a leader that is open to trying new things. This will give your team

confidence that they play an important role in the business and may encourage new innovation that could transform your company.

7. Flexibility – if you can be flexible with staff start/finish times, lunch breaks, working from home etc your team are also more likely to return the favour by putting in extra hours when it is needed. While this is not always an option depending on your type of business, there are likely to be other ways you can be flexible. Your staff will love you for it!

Just like on a rugby field, how you lead your team will affect the individual’s and business’ performance. These tips are designed to get you thinking about your own leadership style and how to gain the optimum results from your team and ultimately your business.

Solid leadership is even more crucial if your business is growing quickly, preparing to export or simply exploring options to expand in new markets. Ensuring your leadership is sound and ready for all eventualities will smooth the road for future growth.

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development can assist growing and innovative businesses to improve management skills through its Business Assistance Programme.

Run in partnership with the Ministry of Science and Innovation and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, this programme is designed to grow businesses and increase capability.

A specialist business team can help assess each company’s future direction and establish an action plan to get there. They can direct to relevant courses, advisors, information, and other services or allocate funding (through a NZTE voucher system) to access services that build management skills.

For more information visit www.ens.org.nz/grow or call (09) 354 0059.

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2011 AIMES AWARD WINNER SPICE ‘N EASY - BEST START-UP BUSINESS 2011 AWARD

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WIN NER

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2011

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BUSINESS AWARDS

n i spic s u e of b

es

AUCKLAND NORTH

The Business Channel’s Aidan Bennett talks to Sanjay and Vibha Soni of award winning North Shore business, Spice n Easy.

Probably the most enjoyable aspect of profiling award-winning businesses is that the owners, or leaders, are always passionate.

Yes, being clever and doing the right things are very important. But my belief is that it’s the passion that sets them apart. They invariably love what they do.

That’s what makes the Spice n Easy story such a neat one. The husband and wife team behind the business are hugely passionate about their offering. For the purpose of this article, I spent an hour with them in their Mokaia Road, Birkenhead base and the two of them were bubbling with excitement about their business for the entire time. They recently won the Benefitz Best Start-Up Award at the 2011 Westpac Auckland North Business Awards.

Sanjay and Vibha Soni came to New Zealand a little over a decade ago, from their native India. The city of Mumbai to be precise. New Zealand offered a new life for the two of them and their young family son, Swayam and daughter Niyati. They settled on the North Shore, but struggled to find suitable jobs in the IT industry like they had in Mumbai.

Their frustration is what led to them starting Spice n Easy.

“One thing we noticed after we had been in New Zealand for a short time, was there was not many places actually selling good spices,” says Vibha Soni. “We saw this gap in the market, particularly around the Birkenhead area, so we decided to open a store. While we didn’t know that much about spices at the time, Sanjay did know about business, so we decided to give it a shot.”

The Sonis had no retail experience, but found a suitable store in Mokaia Road and opened for business in 2001. At first they stocked spices, herbs and cooking products from their native India, the

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Mediterranean, Sri Lanka and South Africa. Sanjay gave up his job to work full time in the store, while Vibha kept her full time job elsewhere and worked in the store after hours and on weekends. The popularity of the store grew and provided an excellent opportunity to find out what their customers wanted.

“For the first few years we sold the spices from bulk bins, with customers taking them loose in small plastic bags,” explains Sanjay Soni.

“Many of the customers showed real interest in learning more about cooking with the spices, so we came up with the idea of running cooking classes. Vibha ran them at the Highbury Community Centre and they became very popular. We had students, chefs, housewives – people from many walks of life – come along. Eventually the cooking classes grew to be three nights a week and involved over 100 people. So Vibha left her job and we realised that this really was an opportunity to establish a serious business.”

Sanjay and Vibha Soni are two pretty smart people. What they had established was a significant customer base that became their very own market research group. They would provide feedback on the products by using them both at home and in the Highbury cooking classes. This became the testing ground for Spice n Easy. They would provide all the ingredients and the classes were very hands-on. The eight-week courses involved cooking both main meals and side dishes.

“We eventually came up with the idea of packaging the spices in a step-by-step kit to make the cooking process very easy and convenient,” adds Sanjay. “Taking the guesswork out of making great Indian food. The emphasis was on taste, ease of recipe, time and it was important that it could be made from scratch with the freshest ingredients. Around this time

Spice n Easy owners Sanjay

enhead base.

and Vibha Soni at their Birk

Sanjay and Vibha Soni were presented with their Best Start-Up Business Award at the 2011 Westpac Auckland North Business Awards by Gareth Wheeler (left) of award sponsor Benefitz.

I went to India to source the product, which we packaged initially in tubs, like butter. We were continually testing these new products with our customers. While the spices proved to be very popular – the tubs were too bulky – so we found a sachet supplier in New Zealand, which was much better. This was a significant breakthrough in our overall product development.”

The most popular dishes in the cooking classes were made into packs and the Spice n Easy recipe kit concept was ready to be launched on a wider scale.

Sanjay and Vibha enthusiastically approached the supermarket chains to stock their exciting new product. But the big players at first said no. A knock back that would have put many off – but not the Sonis. They looked for other avenues and decided to approach outlets that sold the fresh ingredients that went hand-in-hand with Spice n Easy – Butchers and specialty shops. The breakthrough came when The Aussie Butcher chain said yes.

“The knockback from the supermarkets meant that we just had to take a different route,” says Vibha. “We were thrilled when The Aussie Butcher and a few others said yes, so we put all our efforts into supporting the product in their shops. We did tastings and cooking demonstrations, which was really important when educating customers about this completely new concept. It was very rewarding to see this product we had conceived, become so popular.

The customers loved it.”

A massive part of the Spice n Easy product is how healthy it is. The range contains no preservatives and is 90% gluten free and Sanjay says it has been developed based on a simple principle that they set from the start. – “What we put into our product is what we would feed our own family. There are so many products on sale that give no idea what the ingredients are. In our products it is up to you how much salt etc. you add, and there are no artificial colourings.”

There are now 37 different products in the Spice n Easy range. 40% are curries (meat, seafood, vegetarian), 20% marinades, 20% rice and lentil packs and 20% snacks and starters. A new Spice n Easy ‘Slow Cooker Range’ was also being launched as this magazine went to press.

It must be hugely satisfying for Sanjay and Vibha Soni that all the supermarkets are now firmly on board. In fact the product – which is still packaged from their Birkenhead base – is now available through 450 outlets throughout the country. Their sales growth in the past 12 months has been a staggering 340%. They are also on their way to exporting products to Australia and are keen to go into Canada and the United States as well. No similar products are available in these markets.

All the packaging design and marketing to date, has been done by Sanjay and Vibha. With his IT background, Sanjay is very proficient with computer graphics, so he is able to create virtually everything they need and Vibha has a flair for design, so she also has a significant input into the look and feel of the brand. For the past three years they have invested in National television

Vibha Soni during one of her cooking demonstrations of the Spice n Easy product.

advertising as well to support their growing brand.

They were advised early on to engage a third party for their sales and merchandising and have been thrilled with the company they teamed up with, Alliance Marketing.

“Alliance have an excellent online system which provides great reporting so we know what our sales, stock levels and trends are, on a daily basis,” says Vibha.

The product being available at an affordable price has also been a key ingredient in the Spice n Easy success story. They have kept it around the $3.00 to $4.00 mark, for a meal for up to three or four people.

So what key lessons have the Sonis learnt along the way?

“At times we have really struggled from a cash-flow point of view, due to our rapid growth and the tightness of the economy,” says Sanjay. “But we have had some great support from the National Bank. We started out with David Barrett at our local Birkenhead branch, who was also president of the local business association. As our needs have changed, he introduced us to Keith Lupton at Takapuna and they have really understood our vision. We can’t speak highly enough of them. We have learnt that having a good bank is very important, as is having a good accountant. Our accountant Vijay Talekar has provided us with great assistance.”

“We are also indebted to the local Birkenhead community who have embraced what we are doing. We have six outlets stocking our range in Birkenhead and the locals have really encouraged us. Being able to utilise the Highbury Community Centre for the cooking classes provided us with a great start.”

An early attendee at their cooking classes was lawyer Genevieve Gill, from GenLaw in Herne Bay. Genevieve has played a big role in helping them protect and trademark their brand and she was also instrumental in helping them overcome a legal issue, relating to someone else using the same name.

“We learnt the hard way that IP (intellectual property) is a pretty grey area and you need the experts working for you,” adds Sanjay. “Genevieve has done a great job for us and it helped considerably that she also loved cooking with our products.”

“We wouldn’t have got where we have without the support of Ngaio (Merrick) and her team at Enterprise North Shore, now ATEED. We initially went to them for a grant to assist us with exporting. While we didn’t get what we wanted, they loved our story and have provided us with massive encouragement and advice. We have had some excellent guidance from Laurie Conder and they encouraged us to enter the Westpac Auckland North Business Awards, which we are thrilled to have won in different categories, for the past two years. The whole process has been very rewarding and has played a part in our success.”

Ultimately though, it is their passion for what they do – providing an easy platform for people to make great Indian food – that has made Sanjay and Vibha Soni and their business Spice n Easy so successful. Passion – it’s the spice of business life.

Visit: www.spiceneasy.co.nz

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2011 AIMES AWARD WINNER ECO FLOW - BEST EMERGING BUSINESS AWARD 2011

AUCKLAND NORTH

BUSINESS AWARDS

2011

WIN NER

A business plan that first creates its own market, and then sustains that market through on-going sales and services that increase over time, is a plan that’s destined for success. Essentially, in its simplest form, this is the strategy that won Albany based Ecoflow Limited, the Best Emerging Business Award at this year’s Westpac Auckland North Business Awards.

Ecoflow is a small specialist wastewater solutions provider, established in July 2007 by wastewater engineers, Karl Sentch and Jon McGettigan, after they realised the need for a low cost solution to the increasing problem the councils face in removing old and failing septic tank systems.

The issue of old septic tanks breaking down and polluting waterways was a common issue, facing almost all of the councils and the consultants that the pair were working with at the time.

This gave them the inspiration to form Ecoflow and to introduce a specialised sewer and wastewater concept to the market.

The technology is a new type of sewer system called “Pressure Sewer” from Environment One Corporation (EOne). It utilises a grinder pump at each dwelling that pumps all the waste off site via a small bore flexible pipe network to a municipal pump station or treatment plant.

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Pressure sewer systems have distinct advantages over conventional gravity systems and eliminate all of their problems, at a lower cost.

Ecoflow is the sole New Zealand representative responsible for the supply and maintenance of the system, which they import directly from EOne in the USA. It was by introducing this system to New Zealand that Ecoflow essentially created a brand new market, as nothing like this had ever been used here before.

“We saw huge potential for this equipment in New Zealand,” says Sentch. “It was just a matter of selling it to the councils, and convincing them that this was a good idea.”

Initially that was not an easy sell.

“Bear in mind we’re dealing with older wastewater engineers who have been in the council for many many years, who are used to gravity

Jon McGettigan and Karl Sentch.

systems that have been around for 2000 years, and they weren’t too keen on this whole new concept of pressure sewering,” says Sentch. “They couldn’t see how it was a good idea.”

Fortunately Eone have been around for over 40 years and had a lot of data that Ecoflow could fall back on to prove the merits, so with a little bit of convincing, a couple of the councils eventually came on board and the company secured its first jobs.

“And an awful lot of interest from all the other councils, wanting to see how those first two systems came off, followed.”

Fortunately those two systems came off very well, and from there business has snowballed for Ecoflow, to the point where they’ve currently got over 4000 projects on at the moment and are taking future orders, as well as setting up a second office in Christchurch, where their systems have been granted approval to be used in the rebuild.

Once the councils came on board, Ecoflow were able to focus their attentions on the next level down – the developers – and have successfully won contracts for new development projects throughout the country including, of course, Christchurch.

Ecoflow now find themselves in the enviable position where the law – the Resources Management Act no less – states that an out-dated technology, such as septic tanks, needs to be replaced, and Ecoflow control the market for the replacement.

Virtually every seaside community in New Zealand was built with septic tanks in the 1950s, and they’re all going to need to be replaced – rural communities, new developments – the future for Ecoflow looks exciting and it’s not an exaggeration.

For a company that established itself in the middle of the world’s largest recession since the 1930s, Ecoflow has defied the trend and survived, prospered and exceeded all expectations.

“If this is business during a recession I can’t wait to see it when everything gets back to normal,” says Sentch.

In saying that, Sentch admits the recessionary environment probably helped in establishing Ecoflow’s success, as it gave the company time

to grow organically, taking orders at a pace that Sentch and McGettigan, who were doing everything between the two of them in those early days, could maintain.

“I think if we were inundated with these massive orders straight away, we would have been overwhelmed, but everything happened to just fall into place and it all came together perfectly.”

Eventually the company took on staff and bought their own premises in Albany, which they describe as two of the big milestones for the company.

“Taking on staff was a big milestone, finally realising that we could get someone to help so we didn’t have to do it all ourselves.”

“That, buying our premises and winning our first contract have all been huge.”

“Winning our first job was the greatest, it was only small but it was the start.”

They’ve won many more jobs since that first, and they’re still selfconfessed workaholics, but it’s because they’re hungry, they’re setting tasks all the time. The company has grown exponentially but that’s no reason to kick back, there is still a lot more to achieve.

For a small business consisting of only four full-time and two parttime staff, the company has done spectacularly well in a few short years, supplying councils and developers all over New Zealand, from the far North all the way down to Invercargill, and they are responsible now for approximately 95 percent of all pressure sewer systems in the country.

Simply put, Ecoflow are the Pressure Sewer market leaders in New Zealand and a success story for the North Auckland business community.

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MILLENNIUM INSTITUTE OF SPORT & HEALTH NEWS

Transformation Seeing the many mind, body and soul transformations that occur for their members is one of the highlights of the job for Millennium Gym staff. It’s here the fruition of their commitment to making our community healthier comes to light. Two such stories from members are shared below.

David Hill’s Unexpected Discovery Feeling under the weather attributed to what he thought was lack of activity and fitness, David Hill joined Millennium Gym about 14 months ago.

After undergoing the standard health and fitness assessments provided for all new members, it was discovered David had high blood pressure and so he was referred to his GP for clearance before commencing exercise.

This proved to be the right decision. David was diagnosed with Pheochromocytoma, a rare tumour of the adrenal gland that causes the release of high levels of certain hormones. The condition is very difficult to diagnose, but Millennium’s handling of David’s high blood pressure resulted in the tumour being discovered well before it may have been otherwise.

David has since had the tumour removed, his blood pressure has returned to normal, and he’s been a regular attendee of Millennium Gym ever since, coming in two to three times a week following his individualised workout program. David is full of praise for the Millennium Gym staff, “I’ve never been an athlete but I’ve been to a lot of gyms over the years and Millennium is a cut above. The staff are all so helpful and friendly; they make you feel good about exercising.” David has thoroughly enjoyed his time at the Millennium Gym so far and is excited about working out in the new facilities soon to be on offer.

Lee McKenzie is one of the most dedicated members of the Millennium Gym, working out five days a week, every week, for the last four years. She came to Millennium extremely unmotivated but soon underwent a rapid transformation, “I went from a couch potato to a gym nut.”

Lee attributes this turn around to the Millennium

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David Hill (left) with Ryton Horn, Group Fitness Coordinator @ Millennium Gym

Lee McKenzie’s Radical Attitude Transformation Gym staff who she describes as “very friendly and encouraging.” In particular Lee praises her personal trainer, Thomas Henderson, “He made a huge difference to my attitude. I didn’t really want to be there to start with, but he has motivated me and allowed me to realise the benefits of exercising regularly.” Lee loves the atmosphere and facilities at Millennium and is looking forward to the opening of the new and improved gym soon. She isn’t too sure whether she is going to utilise the new range of group classes on offer, including: TopRide®, Power®, FightDo®, MegaDanz® and X55®, but Millennium Gym staff are adamant she will love them and enjoy exercising even more as a result. Exciting new opportunities await one of Millennium Gym’s long-time members.

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

Lee McKenzie @ Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge

the music beat to t h g fi ry a in g ima e FIGhTdo® – an artial arts to giv m d n a g in x o b f est o t. combining the b ffective workou e ly h ig h , n fu a you

ngth g program of stre in g n e ll a ch a poweR® aining using an tr ce n ra u d n e d an arbell. interchanging b

n’t ng programs do ti lp u sc y d o b / g e X55® – tonin ! X55, an extrem is th n a th r e tt e come any b out.

55 minute work

Gym

o t N O O S G N I M O C m y g m u i nn e ll mi

rogram with each p d se a b ce n a d s it’s MeGadanz® – nce and fun plu a d , m th y rh g n r track representi e cardiovascula a highly effectiv fat. workout to burn

st indoor cyclingnge e b e th ® e Id R lle Top ecifically to cha p s d te a e cr m ra prog siasts. all cycling enthu

Be the best you can be.

17 Antares Place | Mairangi Bay | 09 477 2000 www.mish.org.nz

A true celebration During November and December we are celebrating 20 years of business at Albany Toyota.

The dealership was launched back in late November 1991. It is with a great deal of pride that we have built the business to be one of New Zealand’s leading motor vehicle dealers, while remaining a locally owned and operated business.

While it is true that we have been successful, it is the fact that we employ so many local people – across our five sites – that gives us the real pleasure. It is the people that make a business and we have a great team at Albany Toyota.

So during the months of November and December we are going to celebrate our two decades in style.

Lots of very special deals and promotions across all departments.

I look forward to seeing you at one of our Albany Toyota locations during November and December.

Happy Motoring

Andrew Mackenzie CEO - Albany Toyota

Andrew and Haydn Mackenzie

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NOVEMBER & DECEMBER CELEBRATION...

Right through our 20th Birthday period of November & December we are celebrating at Albany Toyota. Special offers and loads of giveaways on NEW TOYOTA CARS & COMMERCIALS, NEAR NEW TOYOTA DEMOS, TOYOTA SIGNATURE CLASS VEHICLES, USED VEHICLES, SERVICE, PARTS and ACCESSORIES.

Save & Win in our 20 Year Celebration!

New & Used Vehicle Sales | Corner Main Road & Gills Road , Albany | Phone 09-415 7890 or 0800 657 755 Signature Class Used Vehicle Sales | Oteha Valley Road extension , Albany (next to Shell Service Station) | Phone 09-414 4700 or 0800 103 030

MOBILE MARKETING with IMAGETAG

CHOCOLATAG

A tasty mobile marketing experience The September issue of Business Channel Magazine featured imageTag, a new mobile marketing service by North Shore business Images in Space. Another North Shore business Chocolate Graphics saw the article, called owner Barry Pyle and 10 days later their collaborative effort created a new marketing tool. ChocolaTag was born.

To promote the service, Images in Space offered existing customers a free ChocolaTag chocolate, an innovative example of how a QR code can be placed on almost anything - directly on to products, point of sale, outdoor displays, print advertising, catalogues, etc.

Once scanned, the QR code takes the user to a mobile web site, where they receive a reward or additional exclusive information. In the case of ChocolaTags, the chocolate provides an interesting delivery

vehicle for the QR code that captures the attention of the recipient and gives them an added treat.

We are entering the mobile age where more information, entertainment and business will be conducted on your mobile phone. The popularity of mobile marketing is increasing with major brands such as BNZ, Localist and Subway recently integrating QR codes into their marketing activities.

So if you are looking for a tasty way to influence, impress, acknowledge, say hello, or just say Merry Christmas, then an imageTag campaign is easy to implement, and ChocolaTag could be the way to deliver it. One thing is for sure, you will certainly be remembered.

For more information contact Images in Space, Telephone 4784491 or visit www.imagetag.co.nz

速

.co.nz mobile marketing campaigns

Free ChocolaTag Scan the QR code to receive a free ChocolaTag. (Limited to first 100 entries)

Download the free mobile app at http://imagetag.co.nz.

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

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2011 AIMES AWARD WINNER APOLLO ENTERTAINMENT - EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION/EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGY AWARDS 2011

AUCKLAND NORTH

BUSINESS AWARDS

2011

WIN NER

TECHNOLOGY innovation

& CUSTOMER SERVICE In just two short years, Whangaparaoa based Apollo Entertainment has established itself as a world leading supplier of recreational, mobile entertainment technology, and has been recognised with two awards at this year’s Auckland North Business Awards.

Setting records for the year, Apollo was the only company to take two awards - The Spyglass Excellence in Technology Award and the 3M Excellence in Innovation Award – and only just missed out on a third, the coveted Best Start Up Business Award.

The company, founded by Chris Hart and Duncan MacMillan, specialises in the design and build of 12 Volt entertainment systems for the global marine and RV industries.

Being recognised for its technology and innovation was perhaps inevitable, as innovation and technology form the very basis of what Apollo is founded upon – it holds the patents and exclusive rights for its own unique range of products, designed and built in-house through a joint venture with its Korean supplier.

“We started this company because we wanted to offer a better product to the market, than was currently available,” says MacMillan.

Between them the pair had the technical knowledge, the contacts and the experience – over 20 years in the industry – to make it work.

“There are two real key factors that have played into the success of the company: you have to be spot on with the customer service, especially in such a small industry, and you have to be innovative with the product.”

Innovation is the key to success and to be innovating you need to be bringing something new to the game, changing it and updating it.

One example is Apollo, who were the first company to introduce LED TVs into the industry. While they’ve been around for a while, no one had ever thought to adapt LED to 12 Volt format for mobile entertainment applications.

As simple as it sounds, it was an innovation as LED is a lot more efficient than anything used previously.

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“Before we came along it was a very stagnant industry, nothing new was happening,” says Hart. “They were still using technology that was seven to 11 years old, all we did was bring it up to date.”

And as a result Apollo have cornered a niche industry, which they effectively control across two markets – Australia/New Zealand and UK/ Germany – with plans for further expansion throughout the rest of Europe and the Middle East.

In New Zealand, Apollo fit out the majority of rental RVs in the country with after-market entertainment systems. This includes companies like Kea, Juicy or Auckland Motorhomes, who not only have a standing fleet of vehicles to be converted, they also bring in up to 70 additional new vehicles each year, which all need to be upgraded with Apollo systems.

It is difficult to emphasis the importance of innovation in a company such as this. Running the risk of resembling a catalogue, the list of products that Apollo has either created on its own, or where it has vastly improved on an established idea, comprises the entire company product range. Even something as mundane as an aerial has been upgraded to the 21st century to work beyond the traditional analogue or FM frequencies and now incorporates all digital, radio, UHF signals in one antenna, replacing the need for multiple aerials on one vehicle.

There is also a marine division, which is on the cusp of releasing a brand new satellite unit that is set to revolutionise the way these systems have traditionally been used – for lower cost than its predecessors and competitors.

The products are innovative, the technology exciting, but returning to Hart and MacMillan’s earlier theme, customer service is the other pillar upon which the company rests. Great customer service is what makes

You have to be spot on with the customer service, especially in such a small industry, and you have to be innovative with the product.

the sales and ensures a flawless reputation and continued growth.

“We have focused on building and maintaining good relationships with our customers and distributors,” says Hart. “Nothing is too much trouble and we’ll do everything we can to ensure our customers are happy, whether that means jumping on a plane and flying to the other side of the world for three days, or problem solving through an issue on a customer’s behalf.”

“That’s what we do, we really do look after the customer service and it is the main thing we have made sure of since the start,” adds MacMillan. “When we say this is what we’re prepared to do for our prospective customers, we make it happen.”

There has also been a conscious decision to retain quality over price reductions. Apollo is a product superior to anything else in the

Chris Hart and Duncan MacMillan.

market, and people are always willing to pay for quality. While there are cheaper options, Apollo technology, innovation and customer service have worked together to build a brand known and respected around the world as a world leader.

The numbers speak for themselves. On the day that Channel met with the pair, they had just taken an order for US$90,000 that morning from the UK, and are projecting the European market is worth about US$30 million.

That’s just one market – the Middle East for example is another promising contender for Apollo’s innovation and personalised customer service to tap into – there’s Asia, North America, and the marine applications haven’t even been fully exploited here in New Zealand yet.

Like its name sake, the future for Apollo is looking bright indeed.

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

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BANKING with WESTPAC

WE’RE HERE TO HELP At Westpac North Shore help is what we do – and we’re very proud to be a part of this fantastic community.

North Shore is an area that has experienced significant population growth and a changing demographic over recent years. And all indications are that this will continue.

We can help with all aspects of banking – from facilitating a simple credit card application to handling complex business solutions. We have an outstanding team of experienced bankers who are dedicated to providing the best in customer service.

One such team member is Senior Business Manager Peter Carrucan.

With 30 years’ banking experience, Peter has seen various economic cycles and brings a vast amount of skill and knowledge to the team.

His experience spans retail, business and commercial banking, and is underpinned by a Graduate Diploma in Business from Massey University.

A keen sportsman, Peter is currently involved in triathlon and had the honour of representing New Zealand at the 2009 and 2010 Age Group World Champs in Gold Coast, Australia and Budapest, Hungary respectively.

Peter is a North Shore local who is proud to help the local business community.

“My family and I live on the North Shore and I have worked in the area for many years,” says Peter. “I’m committed to working with local customers to understand what is important to them and provide financial solutions to meet their needs. I’m proud to support the local business community and am here to help it grow.”

This sentiment is echoed by Peter’s colleague, Andrew Thomson who is also a Senior Business Manager. Andrew manages a small portfolio of mid market clients, as well as leading a team of six business bankers.

Andrew brings around 25 years’ banking experience to the role – this experience covers different areas of the industry, including international

Brian Henderson is Area Manager, Business Banking Northern Westpac. brian_henderson@westpac.co.nz

trade finance, corporate, commercial, business and retail banking.

For Andrew, the best aspect of his role is working with different businesses, adding value and Peter Carrucan and Andrew Thomson. helping them to be more successful.

“We work with a diverse range of businesses on a daily basis. What I really enjoy is getting to understand my clients’ businesses and help them to be successful with the support of my business specialist partners.”

Another North Shore local, Andrew is married with three school aged children, is currently the Board Chair at Pinehill School, and coaches and plays hockey.

Beyond banking, Westpac North Shore supports the bank’s numerous sponsorship initiatives, such as fundraising for the annual Chopper Appeal, various community activities and beach clean ups, including recent clean ups at Long Bay, Takapuna and Devonport beaches.

We also assist with improving financial literacy throughout the North Shore in conjunction with local secondary schools.

With our strong community commitment, extensive local knowledge, and a focus on understanding our clients, Westpac North Shore is here to help.

Please feel free to call me directly or come by our offices in Corinthian Drive.

The content of this article is for information purposes only. While all opinions, statements and analysis are based on information current at the time of writing from sources believed to be authentic and reliable, Westpac recommends you seek your own independent professional advice. Westpac New Zealand Limited.

ho says the doors of commerce are closed?

They’re not. At Westpac, the doors are wide-open. And, we’re backing that up by lending to businesses in ways you might not expect. With up to 100% finance available for equipment or your own premises you’ll really help your business grow. So, there’s no reason your business can’t evolve into your own empire.

To grow your business now, talk to Brian Henderson, your local business banker on 09 488 0693.

Westpac’s current lending criteria apply. An establishment fee may apply. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply to Westpac products and services. For more details, visit your nearest branch or www.westpac.co.nz. Westpac New Zealand Limited.

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Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

THE LEGAL COLUMN with SCHNAUER & CO

LAW CHANGES

due to elections Space prevents us from commenting on every law change since November 2008 and those proposed this election. However, there are some notable changes that are not without controversy.

The first significant change after the 2008 election was the reduction in company and personal income tax rates to bring them more into line with each other to prevent the rorting that had occurred under the previous administration. Unlike the wind which changes direction daily, tax law changes about November every third year.

National has not indicated yet what its tax policy will be should it retain the Treasury benches after 26 November, and neither has its coalition partner, Act. However, Act has indicated its preference for changes to laws relating to government spending, which it says will enable much lower taxes.

Act is keen to implement its Spending Cap (People’s Veto) Bill which would cap government spending to the rate of inflation and population change, subject to natural emergencies such as the Christchurch earthquake, or where a majority under a referendum decides that greater spending is needed in a specific area. This is more a constitutional change to government framework, but in the long run should have a significant positive impact on businesses and households. The government cannot continue to keep spending money the way it has been and funding the difference between that and its revenue by borrowing from overseas. The current $18.4 billion deficit equates to approximately $67,000 for each family of four. This spending cap Bill targets that area.

In terms of law changes regarding savings, National has already moved to remove the tax-free status of employer contributions to Kiwisaver and its 2011 Budget made changes that worked towards reducing government subsidies in KiwiSaver, and replacing them with increased private contributions.

From 1 April 2012 the tax-free status of employer contributions is to

Nick Kearney is an Associate with Schnauer & Co. Limited in Milford.

NKearney@schnauer.com www.schnauer.com

end and beyond 30 June 2012, the Member Tax Credit Rate will be halved from $1 to 50c for every $1 contributed by members up to a maximum of $521 per annum, which is half the current maximum.

Going forward, National has announced that it would automatically enrol workers in KiwiSaver. There will be a one-off enrolment scheme but only once the Government’s accounts were back in surplus, which is expected to be in 2015. Labour is expected to announce its KiwiSaver package very shortly.

Expectations if change of Government If Phil Goff manages to end up as Prime Minister on 27 November it is expected the following initial changes to business structures will take place.

Labour has promised to introduce a broad 15% capital gains tax, with few exceptions.

Labour has also promised to change employment laws by increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour and by repealing the government’s 90-day trial period legislation. It will also amend the Holidays Act to ensure there are 11 public holidays each year regardless of them falling on a weekend.

In terms of accident compensation, as at the time of writing this article, Labour has not announced its ACC policy. However, it is expected to reverse the National/Act changes that opened up the ACC work account to competition. Labour has spoken strongly against this policy since it was first mooted.

The final area that may capture attention of law change is the Resource Management Act. The Act party wishes to undertake major reforms of the RMA to reduce regulation surrounding land usage. This doesn’t appear yet to be a priority of the National Party, nor the Labour Party and much will depend on the make-up of Parliament after the election as to whether these changes happen. National passed amendments to the RMA in 2009 so it may feel its work in this area is done.

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

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

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21

LION FOUNDATION YOUNG ENTERPRISE SCHEME The Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme (YES), a school-based business programme, runs internationally and in New Zealand secondary schools at years 12 and 13. It fosters tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, giving them the opportunity to form a company, create a business plan, and produce goods or services to sell. Students learn all aspects of running a business including budgeting, decision making, identifying and managing risk, market research, marketing, selling, and annual financial reporting. Companies are liquidated at the end of the YES year.

This is a ‘live’ business experience, involving real money, taxes, product and profit. These companies compete directly with each other and all New Zealand businesses for their market share.

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development provides a regional co-ordinator to bring together teams, secondary schools and the business community. YES event organisation, training workshops, a trade fair, mentor liaison, regional sponsorship management, communication & motivation are services provided by the co-ordinator, towards this first real experience of the economic community.

The programme runs over a school year and involves events that reflect business activities, in the region and at a national level, with a supreme business award being presented nationally.

In this issue of The Business Channel we highlight three leading entries from North Shore schools. Aim Plus (Takapuna Grammar), KEEP (Westlake Girls High School) and I3Dee (Westlake Boys High School).

Sophie Hayman, Hannah Brightley, Ashleigh Giles and Joyce Wang.

The Aims Plus team of Kun Qian, TeApatu McCrea, Sophie Hayman, Hannah Brightley, Craig Inger, Ashleigh Giles and Joyce Wang.

Aim Plus – Block-A-Web® software Aim Plus is made up of seven senior students at Takapuna Grammar School, each of whom directs one element of the company.

Led by Managing Director and Deputy Head Boy Kun Qian, the team comprises TeApatu McCrea, Sophie Hayman, Hannah Brightley, Craig Inger, Ashleigh Giles and Joyce Wang. We have made an incredible journey throughout 2011, building on our basic original concept, to create marketing and sales strategies, and finally to produce a fully-functioning computer software, which is being sold through many distribution channels; primarily from our website, www.aimplus.co.nz.

Over the course of this year we have participated in the Lion Foundation’s Young Enterprise Scheme, through which high school students are encouraged to build their own company, product and marketing strategies. As a team of seven senior students at Takapuna Grammar School, we have come up with an innovatively designed downloadable computer software programme, Block-A-Web®, specifically created to help our fellow students to control their use of the internet. This new application allows students to build a realistic and personalised timetable of the school week, with a balance between study time and free time, minimising the impact of one of the most distracting procrastination tools of the 21st century – the internet.

With exam periods rapidly approaching, the ongoing issue of student procrastination by way of internet sites such as Facebook and YouTube is becoming an ever-increasing problem. Block-A-Web incorporates a customisable timetabling system, through which the students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own study. Key concentration times can be selected as ‘study time’, during which their selection of harmful or distracting websites will be blocked, and other times can be

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selected as ‘free time’ during which identified sites are made available.

Block-A-Web also promotes a level of trust and communication between parent and student, as our double password feature ensures that both parties are agreed on the study and break time slots, as well as the restricted websites. At this crucial time of year, Block-A-Web can help students to build better study habits, allowing them to maximise their academic potential. We are currently promoting our product through Takapuna Grammar School and the local community, and Block-A-Web has proven itself to be a fantastic study tool.

This year has proven to be a significant learning curve for all seven of us, as we are each responsible for one aspect of the company, and have been given many incredible experiences to develop ourselves in the real business world. The support given to us by local businesses and the community has been incredible, and we have certainly developed confidence working outside of the protected confines of the school environment as a result. This ongoing support has permitted us to introduce some commercial applications for our product, which is currently being trialled by Simpson Western Law Firm, from whom Solicitor Patricia Parker gave the following comment about our product: “I have had the opportunity to review Block-a-Web. As well as a useful study tool, I believe that this program could have further reaching application into the workplace. Many commercial environments could benefit from restricting access to certain websites during work hours, while allowing staff access during breaks. I believe that this is a great product that could be successfully marketed to business of all sizes.”

– Sophie Hayman, Communications Director, Aim Plus, Takapuna Grammar School.

WINNERS AUCKLAND NORTH YES REGIONAL AWARDS Quadrant 2 Excellence in TechnologyAward Aim Plus, Takapuna Grammar – Software for controlling web access

I3Dee – 3D Clip-on’s for glasses wearers

Ricoh Excellence in Innovation Award I3Dee, Westlake Boys’ High School 3 – Dee clip on glasses for movies AMES IT Excellence in Personal Development Award Channel Flyger, Orewa College – KiwiKits Survivial Kit

Our Company name is I3Dee and our The I3Dee team: From left; Peter Chang (17), Wei Un product is 3D Clip-on’s for those who Shong (17), Yong Jun Park (18) wear glasses.

We first came across this problem two years ago when watching the 3D movie Avatar, the normal 3D glasses were uncomfortable to wear over the normal prescription glasses. They were heavy and kept falling off.

Our market research confirmed that many other wearers of glasses experienced this problem.

We designed some prototypes and then with the help of overseas suppliers we had them manufactured.

Our success includes winning the national award from The Edge FM, consisting of $5000 worth of free radio advertising, which is due to go on air in early November.

We also had the opportunity to meet and present our idea to the General Manager of Events Cinemas. Negotiations continue, but we have had to take a step back and check out the intellectual property (IP) situation.

We have previously sold our product at the Sunday Takapuna Market and through School and we have now moved to sell it through our Facebook page.

If Consumers want to purchase or enquire about our they can simply log onto onto Facebook and search for I3Dee. – Wei Un Shong, I3Dee.

Massey Engineering Excellence in Problem solving Award Spectra Glow Apparel, Westlake Boys’ High School – Glow strips & tops for cycling Linkplas Excellence in Production Award CreatioNZ, Youngs College – Beeswax Lanterns Bartercard Excellence in Communication Awards CreatioNZ, Youngs College – Beeswax Lanterns reBOUND, Westlake Girls High School – Book strap K.E.E.P (Kids Emergency Evacuation Plan), Westlake Girls High School – Kat & Jack Books - Disaster Strikes I3Dee, Westlake Boys High School – clip on 3 dee glasses Spectra Glow Apparel, Westlake Boys’ High School – Glow strips & tops for cycling Aim Plus, Takapuna Grammar – Software for controlling web access EmbroideMe Albany Excellence in Presentation Award K.E.E.P (Kids Emergency Evacuation Plan), Westlake Girls High School – Kat & Jack Books - Disaster Strikes RSM Prince Excellence in Financial Management Award Business As Usual, Kingsway College – Fush & Chups chocolates ATEED Teacher of the Year Award Keryn Wright, Westlake Boys’ High School ATEED Young Female Entrepreneur of the Year Award Shirley Ren, K.E.E.P (Kids Emergency Evacuation Plan), Westlake Girls High School ATEED Young Male Entrepreneur of the Year Award Ben Reynolds, Liquida, Westlake Boys’ High School Smales Farm Runner-up Company of the Year Spectra, Westlake Boys’ High School Smales Farm Company of the Year K.E.E.P (Kids Emergency Evacuation Plan), Westlake Girls High School

KEEP – Disaster guide for kids

The KEEP team selling their book at the Takapuna Sunday Market.

Six enterprising students from Westlake Girls High School developed a business they called KEEP. This name stands for Kid’s Emergency Evacuation Plan.

They developed a picture book ‘Kat and Jack: Disaster Strikes!’ which is aimed at five to 10 year old children. The picture book teaches children emergency procedures in the case of an earthquake or tsunami. A very relevant tool given the natural disasters that seem to have become much more frequent around the world – and very close to home.

The book has 32-pages, has colourful pictures and fun rhymes and repetition.

The story was written by KEEP with the Civil Defence checking and approving all the information in our book. The book was illustrated by Emma Conway. Emma Conway is a freelance illustrator based in New Zealand on Auckland’s North Shore. Originally from the UK she graduated from St Helens College of Art in 1990 and went on to do a degree in Contour Fashion at De Montfort University in Leicester, UK. (visit: www.emmaconway.com).

The ‘Kat and Jack: Disaster Strikes!’ books sell for $15 each with all the profits earned going to the Christchurch earthquake appeal.

Kids’ Emergency Evacuation Plan (KEEP), won first place at the Auckland North Oral Business Presentation Final. Judges praised KEEP for their approach and business acumen.

Natural disasters are very topical after the recent events in Christchurch and Japan,” said judge Steve Morrison from Linkplas. “It is fantastic to see students learning how to run a business, while also trying to make a difference in their community. What a great asset these students will be to the business community of the future.”

The KEEP team is Joy Wang, Alice Li, Annalise Lao, Shirley Ren, Joanne Lim, Jane Na and Soobin An.

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

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WINES with LIZ WHEADON, GLENGARRY WINES Our Wine 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.

SPARKLING WINE

Non-Vintage wines are best purchased for drinking, as a general rule they don’t age A wine labeled with a Vintage must contain wine from that particular vintage, vintage Sparkling wines differ in style from year to year as they reflect the particular vintage they are from. Like good wines, Vintage Champagne ages very well.

Here’s a few of my picks for this festive season; St Meyland Methode Traditional - Made from the traditional varieties of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this wine is made in France just outside the Champagne region, but is made in the same way. For under $20 it’s got to be one of the best value sparkling wines on the market.

Santa Margherita Prosecco DOCG - A dry style this is a great aperitif wine, made from the Prosecco grape variety using the charmat method.

Drappier Carte Blanche Non-Vintage Champagne - One of my favorites, it’s well priced – under $45 this Christmas, made by the Drappier family, this has one of the lowest amounts of sulphur of all the Champagnes on the market, this is due to Michel Drappiers allergy to sulphur, it’s also a lovely dry Champagne.

JULES TAYLOR

593

Sauvignon Blanc 2011 WAS $25.90

VEUVE CLICQUOT

Brut NV + Clicqu’Up Ice Bucket

WAS $ $120.00

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Beer Range 6-pack

WAS $18.90

SHOP WITH US – IN ST OR E AN D ON LI

NE – FOR ALL YOUR FE STIVE NE EDS .

WINE . BEER . SPIR ITS

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www.glengarry.co.nz 24

445 2989 486 1770

0800 733 505

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$19.90

Lively, fresh and zingy

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

$79.90 $79 90

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There are lots of new Sparkling wines appearing on shelves, here’s a 101 to how they are all made and a few of my top picks.

Sparkling wine is traditionally made the way they do in Champagne, the very basic version – the grapes are picked, and then pressed, the juice is fermented into wine. The wine is then put into bottles where a secondary fermentation occurs – as this occurs, the bubbles released during the process are trapped in the bottle. The bottles are then turned and slowly the dead yeast cells from the second fermentation collect in the neck of the bottle. The temporary closure that is used during the secondary fermentation is then removed, a little ‘dosage’ added (a liquor to top the bottle up that depending on the amount added affects the final sweetness of the wine) a cork closure is applied to hold the bubbles in the bottle. This process is referred to as Methode Traditional. Champagne is produced this way and can only be called Champagne as long as it’s from the Champagne Appellation (78,000 acres of vine in Champagne, France) bottle aged for 15 months minimum for NV. 3 years for vintage and made from permitted grape varieties. There are wines made the same way in other parts of the world, including Champagne, but unless they meet these requirements, they can’t be called Champagne, but they can be called Methode Traditional.

Another method of production is the Charmat method, invented in 1907 by a Frenchman Euguen Charmat. In this process the second fermentation happens in large tanks and is then pumped under pressure into bottles and sealed. Examples of sparkling wine through this process include Prosecco and Asti.

There’s also the transfer method, which follows the Methode process, but differs after the secondary fermentation, when the wine is transferred to another bottle, the pressure maintained and then the wine sealed.

So cutting out the process of turning the bottles and waiting for the sediment to settle.

When a wine is labeled Non-Vintage, it means that it is a blend of different base wines from a number of years. The blending occurs before the secondary fermentation. In Champagne, Non-Vintage champagne is considered the house style, it’s the wine that the house stands or falls on.

- the differences

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT COACHING with OPTIMUM PEOPLE

the urban reset Julie Hazelhurst Director of Optimum People www.optimumpeople.co.nz

HAVE YOU GOT THE KEY INTERNAL INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR BUSINESS? A successful business today is one who remains committed to running a lean operation focussed on delivering precise customer value as efficiently as possible. A competitive business today is one who utilises the full capability of the talent in their business by actively encouraging staff to contribute their ideas through a culture of positive workplace relationships and an engaged and empowered people.

How is your organisation tracking?

Know your customer and understand their needs – no matter how great an idea, product or service, if your customer does not see it as value add, they will not be prepared to pay for it. Build your unique value proposition to satisfy your target markets’ needs.

Define and standardise your key business processes – does your business come to a grinding halt when key members of staff go on annual leave?

Have a clear vision and overall business strategy supported by short, medium and long-term business plans.

Set realistic expectations for all your staff - never assume people know exactly what is expected of them.

Track and evaluate progress and provide ongoing feedback and support - building a high performance culture means giving timeous feedback with personal development goals attached.

Communicate with your staff – in a transparent and open manner, as often and in as many ways as possible.

Build a functional and aligned leadership team – work as a team, utilise your unique strengths, stay focussed on the goals and lead from the front.

Develop your talent – one of the greatest wastes in businesses today is under utilised people resources.

People change, customers change, the world changes… constantly monitor and assess the above factors and adapt accordingly.

Optimum People design and deliver caching interventions to deliver your unique business outcomes.

Contact julie@optimumpeople.co.nz or visit our website www.optimumpeople.co.nz for more information.

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• Internal conference • Off-site strategy day • Team building The urban reset team are passionate about pulling the key ingredients together to ensure you achieve your outcome for your targeted event, we will work with you to design and deliver your ultimate corporate retreat.

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FEATURE DRAFT AUCKLAND PLAN SUBMISSION As this issue of The Business Channel was being put together, submissions were closing (October 25th) for the draft Auckland Plan. The draft Auckland Plan is the strategy to make Auckland the world’s most liveable city by 2040. It will also plan for an additional one million people and the 400,000 dwellings needed by Auckland to accommodate them. It is accompanied by plans for the region’s economic development, the city centre and the waterfront and over time, the plans will have a major impact on Aucklanders lives, shaping where we will live and work and the transport services we will use.

Peter Menzies.

The draft Auckland Plan sets out a programme of transformational shifts to secure the region’s future as a globally competitive city that retains the qualities, the natural environmental and the diversity that we cherish. City leaders have isolated five areas as being critically important to the city’s success: dramatically accelerating the prospects of children and young people; committing to environmental action and green growth; outstanding public transport within one network; radically improving urban living and the built environment; substantially lifting living standards for all Aucklanders. To cope with the expected population increase, the Auckland Plan proposes a quality, compact city with most new housing created within the current urban limits through higher density living.

Long-time Takapuna resident and business leader Peter Menzies is leading a group of people from what he calls the “North Eastern” parts of Auckland, who have put together a comprehensive submission for the draft Auckland Plan.

This submission is titled “North East –A Jewel in Auckland’s Crown” and is available to download from the Channel Magazine website (www.channelmag.co.nz). The North East covers the five northern local board areas of Kaipatiki, Hibiscus and Bays, Upper Harbour, Devonport-Takapuna, and Rodney.

While the group applauds the courageous and bold approach reflected in the draft Plan, they also strongly feel changes are needed for the Auckland Plan to be truly visionary. They are advocating a much bolder approach than has been outlined. The Business Channel’s Aidan Bennett talked to Peter Menzies about his group’s submission in mid-October.

NORTH EAST – A JEWEL el “Jew ckland’s A

“

in Au

Crown

AIDAN BENNETT: In your opinion is the Draft Auckland Plan process a good one?

PETER MENZIES: Yes, I think the process is a good one and essential to setting the future direction for Auckland.

AB: There is a concern that the North East of Auckland may be one of the losers from the plan. Is that concern real?

PM: Yes it is. We have read the draft Auckland Plan very carefully and are very concerned that very little attention is given to the North East of Auckland. There is a significant focus in the draft Auckland Plan on the city centre and fringe, the south of Auckland and the north west of Auckland but there is no mention of the significant role that the north east has to play in the future success of Auckland.

AB: What are the good things that Auckland City is advocating in the Plan?

PM: There are a number of things in the draft plan that we feel are good. It is comprehensive in that it looks at the people, the environment, the economy, urban and rural Auckland, issues relating to housing and infrastructure etc.

Development of the waterfront and the city centre are important elements in building a strong and successful future for Auckland and we recognize the need for initiatives to strengthen the contribution that the south can make.

lition North theEast Coa Submission for Plan Auckland Council October 2011

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AB: You are advocating a “Bolder approach to growth” in your submission.

What does this mean?

PM: Our thinking about long term growth for Auckland is that it cannot be accommodated by the “compact city” approach taken by the draft Plan. The danger in that approach is that all the characteristics of successful cities, town centres and suburbs will be lost and it is those characteristics, which are very

evident in the North East, which create strong successful communities. Growth is good, it’s what every economy is seeking right now but many people fear it because it is seen as putting pressure on the quality and amenity of centres and suburbs. But if growth is catered for by way of town centres and satellite towns, it need not impact negatively on some of our greatest assets – a beautiful coastal environment with strong healthy successful and proud communities. Taking this approach will require at least a 50 year planning timeframe, removal of the Rural Urban Boundary (RUB) to the north, creation of a ‘spine of growth’ from Auckland to Whangarei and protecting important infrastructure corridors now.

AB: One area you highlight of concern is the approach to improving underperforming areas. What is this concern?

PM: We fully acknowledge the need for initiatives to tackle underperformance, particularly in the south of Auckland as identified in the draft Plan. Our concern is that the magnitude and scale of the problems which result in underperformance are so large that an Auckland Council initiative alone will not be enough to deal with them. They warrant national attention. That is why we advocate in our submission that the Auckland Council works constructively with central government right from the start to shape, scope and resource this initiative.

AB: As a Takapuna resident it must be heartwarming to see it getting priority ($440 million of capital expenditure) over next 20 years?

PM: Yes, it is very heartening. But our issue is that the north east receives no focus in the draft Plan. Maybe its omission is implicit recognition of the significant and important contribution that it makes to Auckland’s success. But, we are not reassured. Once the draft Plan is adopted, it will be the driver of all subsequent planning, prioritization and allocation of resources. The role of the north east

We have read the draft Auckland Plan very carefully and are very concerned that very little attention is given to the North East of Auckland. There is a significant focus in the draft Auckland Plan on the city centre and fringe, the south of Auckland and the north west of Auckland but there is no mention of the significant role that the north east has to play in the future success of Auckland. north east so that it can continue to grow and flourish. We want to see the north east showcased in the Auckland Plan as a successful model of good growth, a model that can be replicated in the future as Auckland accommodates the growth that it so clearly needs. Using the growth pattern that resulted in this successful north east requires a change to the ‘compact city’ model promoted by the draft plan. People need to have a range of housing types and lifestyles from which to choose and these choices need to be affordable. We are advocating for satellite towns along a ‘spine of growth’ from Auckland to Whangarei, towns that can be developed close to the sea and using the latest urban design approaches in harmony with the environment. Extending the planning timeframe from 30 to 50 years enables important infrastructure corridors along this spine to be protected

IN AUCKLAND’S CROWN needs to be spelt out now, given its rightful place in the big plans for Auckland so that it is ‘not behind the door’ when the Council’s Long Term Plan is being prepared.

AB: Why do you see the North East as a Jewel in Auckland’s Crown?

PM: I think that if you look at the evidence set out in our submission, the answer to that question is clear for all to see. In the brief space available here, the north east makes a very positive contribution to the success of Auckland. Some of the reasons why are: • Its people are skillful and well connected to each other and their neighbourhoods.

• They are healthy and live long productive lives.

• They are among the most highly qualified of Aucklanders.

• They feel safe and settled, within their own homes and many own their own business.

• The north east has many beautiful beaches which attract talented people who are ambitious and want to create successful futures for themselves, their families, their communities and for Auckland as a whole. The north east has been a magnet for immigrants to Auckland.

• Between 2000-2009 employment growth was higher in Rodney, Hibiscus and Bays and Upper Harbour than for Auckland as a whole.

• Median income is higher than for Auckland as whole.

AB: There has obviously been a great deal of effort gone into this very professional submission. Can you summarise its contents in one paragraph for our readers so they “get” what your group is advocating?

PM: We are advocating for strong investment by the Auckland Council in the

now. And we think that it is time for an inclusive approach to planning that would see Auckland Council draw on the breadth and depth of real world knowledge and experience held by those who live, do business, raise families and truly have their fingers on the pulse of Auckland.

This submission “North East – A Jewel in Auckland’s Crown” is available to download from the Channel Magazine website (www.channelmag.co.nz).

Peter Menzies - Profile Peter Menzies is a civil engineer by trade and has an eclectic list of achievements to his name: construction - everything from hydro dams, tunnels and bridges, to multi-storey buildings, shopping centres and industrial property; listing of public companies; past Chairman of numerous companies – from Mainzeal to Mercury Energy to Museum Trust Board - and Director of others – including Aotea Centre and Team New Zealand. Other past appointments include Director of NZ Trade and Enterprise, a Director of ECNZ, Trustee for Team New Zealand and a Trustee of the Tindall Foundation. He is patron of the North Harbour Club & Charitable Trust and is involved with a number of other community groups. Peter and his wife Jane Mary first came to the Shore in 1970. They have six children and 18 grandchildren. As well as being involved and interested in the future of Auckland, Peter spends his time taking care of his family business interests and he also owns thoroughbred horses in partnership, breeding and racing them.

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UNITEC News

Unitec’s newest campus poised to produce

NEXT GENERATION OF TRADE PROFESSIONALS Opened on August 1, Unitec’s Northern Campus on Rothwell Avenue, Albany is positioned to become a successful pilot of an innovative learning environment for excellent trade and construction training.

Casey Powell, 17, belongs to the initial intake of 420 students at the new campus and is studying the Certificate in Automotive and Mechanical Engineering.

“I’m very impressed with the new campus,” she says. “The tutors are really helpful and everybody works well together.”

Casey says that she has always had a passion to pursue a career in the automotive industry which is why she enrolled at Unitec. “To be honest, it’s not as hard as I thought it would be. It’s easy for me because I believe that to get anywhere, you just have to put your heart and mind to it because everything is possible.”

So far, Casey has completed one of her assignments in Industry Practice and even received an “A” for it. She is currently completing another assignment in Engineering Technology which involves building go-karts to test the student’s grasp of both practice and theory.

As the only female in the CAME class of about 25, Casey says that “women are just as capable as men are in this industry” and that she will definitely encourage other women to go into it because “it’s a fun and exciting career and it keeps you busy.”

Casey’s passion and excellence in her study have served her

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I’m very impressed with the new campus… the tutors are really helpful and everybody works well together. well. Recently, she was offered an apprenticeship by Ford New Zealand located on Wairau Road. At the moment though, Casey is doing work experience there for the duration of her programme.

She has done basic mechanical servicing like oil changes and filters, 20-point safety checks, and lower-arm suspension on Ford Territory’s, which she enjoyed.

“Work experience at Ford is a great opportunity to gain new industry skills and to feel what it’s like to work in my chosen industry. Hopefully, I would have a full-time apprenticeship at Ford,” Casey says.

Unitec’s Northern Campus in Albany welcomes future health care workers, electricians, automotive and mechanical engineers, builders, business entrepreneurs and a range of other students.

Unitec, New Zealand’s largest trade and construction training provider, plans to develop the range of programmes offered at the Northern Campus to accommodate over 1,000 students within the next couple of years. This October, additional Carpentry and Eletrotechnology programmes will be offered.

Information about courses to be offered in October 2011 and March 2012 is available online at www.unitec.ac.nz.

Let Northern campus change your life We have opened a brand new campus in Albany.

We offer the very best training to meet the huge demand for skilled workers in the growing areas of trade training, health care, business, communication and IT. We are also a leading provider of English language programmes for new arrivals in New Zealand, and foundation programmes to get you into further education or employment.

If you are ready for your life to change, talk to us now.

Txt ALBANY to 515 for more info or visit www.unitec.ac.nz

change starts here

Get your business growing.

Whether you’re just starting out in business or have big plans for expansion, the BNZ Partners Growth Programmes are here to help. We have a workshop that will suit your needs, from developing general business skills and capabilities to focusing on one particular aspect of your business. Keep growing with fresh knowledge, input and advice, no matter what stage you’re at.

0800 955 455 growth_programmes@bnz.co.nz growthprogrammes.co.nz building Business builds Community builds Family

THE CREATIVE COLUMN with PLUS 1 CREATIVE

Uwe Engbers Creative Director at Plus1, a North Shore creative outfit that specialises in doing great work for clients with ‘no budget’. plus-one@ihug.co.nz or 477-4716.

SILVER FERN TURNS CORN STAR

I wish I owned a corn business. Frozen corn, corn flour, cornish pasties... anything. That way I could force my agency to do the corniest silver fern ad ever! Cornier than all silver fern ads ever seen before...

The kiwi ad scene has always had this weird obsession with the silver fern, particularly when sponsors of sporting teams are involved.

And so, right on time with the world cup arriving, out came the ‘support the team ads’. And blow me away, by some conspiracy, they were all given the same brief: “Make it look like a silver fern on a black background!”

How is it possible that so many different brands and products all have the same looking ‘support the boys’ ads: people arranged like a silver fern, bottles and food arranged like a silver fern, vehicles and tools arranged like a silver fern, planes skywriting silver ferns and, to top it off, cruise ships making wakes like a silver fern?

It seems to me there is this firm belief that if you mimic

the jersey, to your show support and loyalty for the team, consumers will stop to read your expensive full page ad, have a big laugh and rush out, right there and then, to buy your product.

Or, maybe, they’ll forget the whole ad because it’s so far removed from the product proposition, that the only reaction is a faint “Ah yeah, ok, I get it?”

I mean, if I owned a cruising company, I’d prefer an ad that shows a cocktail waiting by the pool on the top deck at sunset, and a big (corny) headline saying: “Nice work boys - you’re allowed to cruise now.”

Anyway, maybe I’m just jealous that I don’t have a corn business or some kind of corn client. I’d come up with this awesome ad:

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NORTH HARBOUR CLUB AIMES AWARDS 2011

AWARDS

2011 AIMES Award Suprem e winner Richard Stebbin g (left) during the presentation with Nor th Harbour Club Patron Pet er Menzies (right) and President Peter Wall.

BIOMEDICAL ENGINEER

takes 2011 Supreme AIMES Award The annual North Harbour Club AIMES Awards were presented at a black tie gala dinner, attended by over 400 people, at the Bruce Mason Centre on Saturday October 29th. The AIMES Awards celebrate excellence achieved by young people in the North Harbour area in seven different fields. The Arts; Innovation, Science and Technology; Music; Education; Sport; Service to the Community. Since 1995 over $1.3 million has been provided in grants to AIMES Award winners by the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust.

The overall winner for 2011 was 22 year old former Northcote College student and Biomedical Engineer Richard Stebbing. Richard flew back from the UK, where he is studying, especially for the black tie awards evening. Richard has recently commenced his second year as a DPhil student at the University of Oxford in Biomedical Engineering. Richard is a former Head Boy and Dux of Northcote College and, upon leaving school, was awarded an NZQA Outstanding Scholar Award, an NZEST Scholarship, and a University of Auckland Scholarship.

Based on his high school results, he was given the opportunity to skip his first year of a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) programme at The University of Auckland, enabling him to complete the degree in three years while still fulfilling the same course and work experience requirements. He graduated top of his class. Based on his work at high school and university, he was awarded a 2010 Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford. His intention is to use his AIMES Award to help fund his attendance at training programmes and conferences available to him while pursuing postgraduate study, and to assist with the costs of attending an Oxford University course on high performance programming. Richard picked up the AIMES Innovation, Science and Technology Award (sponsored by Massey University) as well as the Supreme AIMES Award. Richard received $20,000 from the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust.

The AIMES Arts Award, sponsored by ASB, went to another former Northcote College student, actor Elliott Christensen-Yule (23). At Northcote he performed in school plays, theatre-sports teams, Stage Challenge productions, and Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Competitions. In 2006, he received both the Jan Fraser Award for Student-directed Ensemble Work and the Dymocks Award for Special Individual Performance at the National Sheilah Winn Festival in Wellington. He maintains his contact with his old school, tutoring current drama students. Elliott has gone on to build a respectable résumé on both the stage and screen. Elliott received $10,000 from the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust.

The AIMES Music Award, sponsored by Albany Toyota, went to singer and former Rosmini College pupil Moses McKay (21).

A former Rosmini pupil, Moses describes himself as ‘a young artist with big dreams’. He completed a Bachelor of Music majoring in Classical Performance at the University of Auckland, and has been selected to be one of the three 2011/2012 PWC Dame Malvina Major Emerging Artists. Making his operatic debut at 19, in NBR New Zealand Opera’s 2010 production of The Marriage of Figaro (Mozart), Moses has since appeared in the chorus of Xerxes (Handel) and Macbeth (Verdi) where he was cast in the role of Assassin/Servant. He was the soloist in Schumann’s Mass in C minor with Choir and Orchestra (Bach Musica) and has previously been a member of The University of Auckland Chamber Choir and the

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New Zealand Youth Choir. Moses has been selected to attend the NZ Opera School in Wanganui in January 2012 where he will gain further experience and training.

He is to start his honours at University in 2012 and then furthermore will look to study his Masters at both Manhattan School of Music or Juilliard School of Music.

Moses received $10,000 from the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust.

Scholar Blake Hansen (23) received the 2011 AIMES Education Award, fittingly sponsored by Kristin School, where he attended until 2005, when he was Head Boy. Blake was awarded Kristin School’s Senior Achievement Trophy for All-Round Achievement including Education; the school’s Senior Sciences Trophy for the top sciences marks; an ASB Bursary for educational achievement; a University of Auckland Scholarship; and, 41 out of a possible 45 points in the International Baccalaureate Diploma, placing him among the top 5 per cent of worldwide students taking the diploma. Shortly after starting a biomedical sciences degree at the University of Auckland, Blake was awarded the Girdlers’ Scholarship, a scholarship awarded for overall ability and given to one New Zealand student annually for full-time undergraduate study at Corpus Christi College, the University of Cambridge, England. During the first two years of his course, Blake carried out research projects in human immunology and on Cancer Research UK’s prestigious summer studentship scheme. Both his bachelor’s and master’s dissertations reflected an interest in infectious disease; researching fragment-based drug design in the creation of novel medicines targeting tuberculosis, and the effect of dimerisation defects in reverse transcription in HIV-2, respectively. Both dissertations were awarded a first class. Blake’s intention was to study natural sciences at the University of Cambridge, leading towards a career in infectious disease research (HIV/AIDS and TB primarily). Five years on and he has graduated from Cambridge with a First Class Masters in Biochemistry. Blake intends to use the support of an AIMES Award to continue improving his skills as a youth worker, with the ultimate goal of working toward providing just care for adolescent HIV patients in developing nations. Blake, who has previously received an AIMES Emerging Talent Award, received $10,000 from the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust.

The 2011 AIMES Sport Award, sponsored by AUT Millennium, was won by basketballer Tom Abercrombie (24). There is an interview with Tom in this issue of Channel. Tom received $10,000 from the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust.

The 2011 AIMES Service to the Community Award, sponsored by Auckland City, was presented to community worker Amanda Judd (25). Amanda, who attended Northcote College, is a very active young person in our community. As the first appointed director of emerging trust YouthworX, she shaped the direction and mission of this key North Shore community organisation and has been involved with many projects and initiatives in the trust’s first three years. As part of her role with YouthworX, she actively built a network of more than 150 organisations and 200 people who work with North Shore’s youth. In 2008, Amanda founded LOVEnotes as a concept, taking used paper, turning it over, making it into ‘new’ stationery, and delivering it back to whoever it was collected from to re-use and give a second life. With three others, Amanda initiated the New Zealand Youth Delegation project (NZYD), a platform for young people to have a voice

Amanda Judd

Blake Hansen

Elliott Christensen-Yule

in international climate change politics and join in with the global youth climate politics movement. NZYD has also launched a sister organisation – The 2050 Alliance – which will provide power, leverage and supporters which the NZYD can spring off each year to enhance their advocacy and lobbying work. In 2009, Amanda set up the application process and infrastructure to appoint our first ever youth delegation to the United Nations Climate Change Negotiations in Copenhagen. She co-lead the delegation. Amanda was a recipient of a North Shore Civic Award in 2009. Amanda received $10,000 from the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust.

At the 2011 AIMES Awards, a Judges Special Award was made to Alisha McLennan.

Alisha is a 23-year-old dancer, support dance tutor and mentor for Touch Compass Dance, New Zealand’s premier integrated dance company. She has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair during her performances. She grew up on the North Shore where she attended Wilson School, Belmont Intermediate and Takapuna Grammar School. Alisha first performed with Touch Compass at the company’s launch at the Auckland Art Gallery in 1999 going on to perform in the youth aerial performance My Room in 2000. As a 14-year-old, Alisha toured with Lusi’s Eden in 2002 to Taupo and Christchurch, and featured in Lighthouse later that year at the Aotea Centre. In 2003 she performed in Acquisitions 2003 and Nightswimmers with Splash Dance Company. In 2004, she performed in Flying Tales 2004, and later with Six and SLIP in 2010. Alisha has recently completed the Triple Bill tour to Hastings and Wellington. In 2009, Alisha undertook a teacher training workshop with Candoco, an internationally acclaimed UK based integrated dance company. At the beginning of 2010, Alisha began being mentored by Touch Compass. She volunteered in the office, worked as a dancer and support dance tutor along with being seconded to the trust board.

She is a member of the inaugural Be.Leadership Programme 2011, a one-year programme that strengthens and promotes a cohesive and significant disability leadership community.

She is also a passionate skier and won the Viv Martin Trophy in 2008 and 2009 for Most Outstanding Female Skier along with a number of gold medals in 2007, 2008 and 2009 at the New Zealand National Championships. Alisha intends to spend her AIMES Award funds to travel to the United Kingdom where there are opportunities to expand her knowledge of aerial performance with Wired Aerial Dance, as well as a diverse range of integrated dance companies, including Candoco. Alisha intends to pursue an international dance career and, in the longer term, wants to work with New Zealand’s disability and dance communities to ensure that dance is accessible for everyone.

Alisha received $10,000 from the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust.

At a special cocktail function held at the Spencer on Byron Hotel on Wednesday October 26th the following were awarded North Harbour Club AIMES Standing from left: Lydia Ko, Peter Menzies (Patron Emerging Talent ), Aine Kelly-Costello, Peter Wall (President), Alexandra Fos Awards, sponsored by ter, Estele Gerrett (mother of Adam, absent), Matthew Bellingham (CEO, Hayes Knight. Alexandra Hayes Knight), Seok Jun Bin g. In front, Rebecca Dubber.

Foster (20) Dancer/ Singer/Actress; Adam Gerrett (19) Actor/Musician; Seok Jun Bing (18) Scientist; Aine Kelly-Costello (16) Musician; Lydia Ko (14) Golfer; Rebecca Dubber (18) Swimmer. Each received their award and $5000 from the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust. ............................................................................................................................

For more information on the North Harbour Club Charitable Trust visit: www.northharbourclub.co.nz.

You know your numbers...

Moses MacKay

Alisha Mclennan

but do you know their meaning?

north

The North Harbour Club & Charitable Trust acknowledges the ongoing support of our fantastic sponsors…

Keeping your business future fit is about being better equipped to make bold and powerful financial decisions. At Hayes Knight, rather than just work the numbers, we interpret them. The result is a more empowered, knowledgeable client able to be proactive with the next steps of their business. To find out more, visit hayesknight.co.nz

North Harbour Club AIMES Awards Sponsors

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North Harbour Club “We’re Building North Harbour” Sponsors

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EDUCATION with PETER CLAGUE, EXECUTIVE PRINCIPAL, KRISTIN SCHOOL

THE

REGRETTABLE

Digital

FOOTPRINT

Peter Clague.

Kristin School’s Executive Principal, Peter Clague, offers a warning on the hidden implications of teenage social networking.

Once upon a time in the not too distant future… Your daughter rings from her flat in Sydney. It’s three days before her 24th birthday but she’s depressed. With a good university degree and having got the big OE out of her system, she is now settling down to the serious business of securing a job. Trouble is, despite her impressive academic credentials and worldly travel experience, she is repeatedly failing to even get an interview with any of the firms to which she has applied. Finally, today, the latest HR manager to reject her has taken pity on her pleas to know what’s going wrong.

Cryptically, he advises her to do a quick internet search on herself.

Google throws up a number of hits but no surprises: links to her recent travel blog, named photos on friends’ sites, a wiki entry on her thesis and a couple of historical media items on the gymnastics medals she won years ago. But the HR manager has also given her a more advanced search engine that is a standard reference tool in his business and when she types in her name, her heart sinks. There, in all its brazen teenage glory, is her profile page from a social networking site she subscribed to back in 2008.

She was 16 at the time and awash with the volatile cocktail of headstrong rebellion, egocentric swagger and conflicting insecurity which floods teenage life. Her profile page reflects that. It is an eclectic mix of how she saw herself and how she wished others to see her. Feeling safe behind the sense of anonymity that a website provides, her postings of material about herself, her thoughts, views and daily activities, were prolific and uncensored.

At first, your daughter is puzzled as to what this digital relic from her childhood might have to do with her current predicament. Certainly, she is surprised that it still exists and more than a little embarrassed to be reminded in such graphic detail of her teenage self. Favourite bands, celebrity gossip, opinions about teachers, parents and schoolmates, transcripts of long text chats about meaningless topics, photos from parties, a list of 258 “friends” (if visiting your profile page constitutes such a relationship?). Yet most of this flashback to her past is benign, if somewhat banal. Indeed, seeing her profile pages again after so long,

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she starts to recall how important social networking sites were in helping her establish an identity, testing out her new persona as she began the transition to independence and adulthood.

And then she sees it. In a box she and her friends had added to their customised pages entitled “Tell All”, is a record of truth & dare-style confessions they had each made. It reads as a list of increasingly extreme transgressions, each more lurid than the last, from Tracey’s binge drinking to Karen’s car crash to your daughter’s own claims about experimentation with alcohol, drugs and sex. She protests down the phone to you that the stories were mainly untrue, or at the very worst, wildly inflated; just boasts to try and gain status and acceptance. Worst of all she wails, she deleted them all years ago. So why are they still there, for prospective employers (or partners, landlords, parents-in-law etc) anywhere on the planet to access and deliberate with ease? What will you tell her?

Please don’t misread the message here – I’m not advocating that you race off and ban your child from MySpace, Facebook or any other social networking site. I am not anti-technology, far from it. In fact, I am extremely proud that Kristin is one of Australasia’s leading ICT schools. But our preeminence in this field is not just about the number of computers on campus or the speed of our internet link. Our leadership also lies in what we teach our young people about the digital world they inhabit. It includes addressing issues of ethics, implication and responsible use.

We often caution our students about the “regrettable digital footprint”; warning them that anything created and posted digitally has the potential to turn up in unintended places. Now, we must also teach that that footprint may be indelible. How many of our kids know that when they create a free profile on Facebook, for example, they sign over the right to anything and everything they will ever post there, regardless of whether they take it off their site at a later date? All that archived data is not for sale - yet.

When it is, some industry analysts believe that Facebook’s database of the preferences and predilections of millions of today’s young people will sell for billions of dollars. Whether your child’s personal details are part of that or any other sale in the not-too-distant future may well be determined by what we taught them at school today.

OneStop!

www.benefitz.co.nz

www.benefitz.co.nz Constellation Drive, North Shore. Ph 477-4700.

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION with PHIL BROSNAN

Phil Brosnan

Phil Brosnan is Managing Director of North Shore based company, Brosnan Construction.

He has over 25 years’ experience in the industry. He began his career with Naylor Love as an apprentice carpenter in Dunedin in 1985. Phil was later inducted into their management team to lead their small contracts and buildings maintenance workload, before proceeding into project management. In 2002 he was promoted to division manager in Dunedin, and in 2004 Phil was transferred to manage their Auckland business. He set up his own construction business, Brosnan Construction, in 2010. He is our regular “Building & Construction” contributor to The Business Channel.

LEAKY BUILDING SPOTTER Over the past few years I have developed a habit, one that possibly annoys those that are close to me. I spot buildings that are suffering from “Leaky Building Syndrome” or as it is now referred to as “Weather Tightness Issues” and provide a running commentary on their repair requirements.

I find the entire situation quite sad and wonder how on earth it has gotten to this point. It’s such a shame to see children being brought up in homes that are leaking, or taught in schools that are suffering from water ingress. It’s sad to see retirees who have planned well for their

It’s such a shame to see children being brought up in homes that are leaking, or taught in schools that are suffering from water ingress. retirement, watch their nest egg being whittled away or worse have to mortgage their properties to carry out repairs. It’s worst of all to walk the streets and identify all of the buildings that are rotting away, knowing that the owners probably know that they are sitting on a real problem but are either too scared to know or unable to deal with it. I’ve never personally been in this situation before so it’s a little hard for me to understand

completely but time is the enemy not the cure and ignoring the issue is costing NZ Inc. millions of dollars every year.

Repairing buildings with weather tightness issues has its challenges, particularly given that you are dealing with people who would quite frankly, prefer that you weren’t. Initially it’s hard for them to see the value we provide, after all it’s not like we’re creating a new asset but rather repairing it to a level that they would rightly have expected it to be in the first place. This is one of the reasons why I think our services in this area are in such high demand. Our willingness to really understand the issues and tailor our services around our customers together with our focus on relationships and quality makes us naturally suited to the sector.

We have considerable experience in repairing leaky buildings including homes, schools and commercial buildings. We’ve responded to the market’s demand and tailored our business around it; building a team specifically devoted to this sector of the market and we have several customer referrals that suggest we’re on the right track.

If you think you might be in the situation I’ve described here I urge you to seek help. There are plenty of resources available and the government has recently released their Financial Assistance Package where they will grant home owners up to 50% of the cost to repair, but like all things special conditions apply. Check out www.dbh.govt.nz/ weathertightness-index for more information or give me a call and I’ll do what I can to help.

Phil Brosnan is the Managing Director of Brosnan Construction.

(09) 479 4347, enquiries@brosnanconstruction.co.nz

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THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

ENSURING BUSINESS CONTINUITY with PLAN-B

Make sure you have a place to work

AND EASY ACCESS TO EQUIPMENT What would you do if a crisis happened and you couldn’t get in to your normal workplace?

Many businesses assume that if their office is unavailable their staff will be able to work from home (or another location), phones can be redirected and sufficient equipment can be cobbled together to keep the business running.

The reality is that replicating your normal work environment is never that straightforward. Plus a short outage may turn in to a long one and be totally outside your control.

Based on our customers’ experiences, a good business continuity plan needs to consider the following:

By Ian Forrester, Managing Director, Plan-b iforrester@plan-b.co.nz

rather than just whether you have a quality backup. If you need a complete business continuity solution, talk to Plan-b.

Contact Plan-b – Phone: 0800 CONTINUE (266 846) or by email: continue@plan-b.co.nz or visit: www.plan-b.co.nz.

1. Where will you work?

While you may be able to work from home it is not really conducive to a professional work environment when children and pets are interrupting, you can’t get the team together and everyone is trying to remotely connect phones and computers (using domestic broadband).

2. How will you work?

If you are not able to access your normal equipment, your staff may not be able to continue working. Laptops could have been left at the office and desktop computers may have been damaged or not be accessible.

3. How will you access your server infrastructure?

If your servers are in the same building as your office, you may not be able to access your critical business data. You need to have a plan to connect remotely and have a backup stored offsite that can be restored on to different equipment.

4. Who will manage your recovery?

In a business crisis there will be many things needing to be managed by your senior team. If you don’t have people you can dedicate to restoring your key systems and ensuring your team have a place to work, it’s useful to know you can have external resources on standby.

We have years of experience in getting people up and running when the unexpected happens.

Plan-b has more than 350 workspace seats throughout New Zealand, in Auckland (North Shore and Mt Wellington), Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch. Our standby facilities are on permanent standby and they provide everything you need to get up and running, including: • Computers, phones and other office equipment • Servers and infrastructure, and • Access to recovery expertise.

As a business, we focus on how you will actually work

Plan-b gets you up and running in a crisis.

Fully-managed, cost-effective business continuity that works.

Businesses need to expect the unexpected!

To ensure you are covered, you need to be confident that: • Your critical data is backed up and stored securely offsite • Your team will have a place and a way to work if you can’t access your normal office, and

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Albany, Auckland Hamilton

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• You have tested and proven you can recover within your required timeframes, and you do so at least once per year.

Hamilton

Wellington Tawa, Wellington

Plan-b offers end-to-end business continuity solutions that make it easy to protect your business from unplanned events.

Christchurch Christchurch

Plan-b office OfficeNOW facility

Contact Plan-b today on 0800 266 846 or continue@plan-b.co.nz to find out more about how we can get you back up and running in a crisis. www.plan-b.co.nz

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

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ACCOUNTANCY BEYOND THE NUMBERS with HAYES KNIGHT

ACTING AS A TRUSTEE;

a matter of trust or deepest pockets?

A number of family trusts in New Zealand include such people as independent cotrustees, which typically include professionals, such as the family lawyer or accountant.

On 19 October the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants (‘NZICA’) released a statement advising professional advisers against acting as trustees. Why the warning?

Well the Inland Revenue (IRD) is has begun a bit of a witch-hunt by actively pursuing trustees personally for any tax debts owed by a trust. Even trustees with no personal connection (or interest) to the income or assets of the trust are in the IRD’s crosshairs.

So is this fair? This approach can been likened to pursuing an independent company’s directors for the tax debt of the company simply because they are board members. By targeting “the deepest pockets” the IRD could be upsetting the governance foundations underpinning most trusts and discouraging many professional advisers from acting as a trustee. However the warning brings another cause for concern – will those professional advisers acting as trustees abandon their positions? If they do then this will create an impasse for all trusts as professional advisers may be less inclined to take-up trustee appointments on behalf of their clients; a loselose situation.

NZICA’s Tax Director Craig Macalister believes the IRD’s actions to be inappropriate. “When a trust is not in a position to meet its tax obligations, it would seem that Inland Revenue will pursue the trustee with the deepest pockets, which will

Matthew Bellingham CEO of innovative chartered accountancy practice Hayes Knight. www.hayesknight.co.nz

invariably be the professional trustee who has taken on the role as part of their engagement with the client. This is despite the fact that the trustee is clearly only acting in his/her professional capacity,” says Mr Macalister.

Having a professional adviser as a trustee, such as the family accountant or lawyer, not only bolsters the governance of a trust, it also ensures the other trustees have access to invaluable administrative services and advice pertaining to their accounting and legal obligations. As a result of the IRD’s actions, my prediction is that professional trustees will likely reconsider providing such services, or look for a way to appropriately indemnify themselves against any claim. The unfortunate spin-off effect of this will likely be an increase in the fees charged by professionals for taking on the risks associated with being a trustee.

Ensuring proper trust administration and that a level of independence exists between the trust and its trustees, provides some protection against bogus trust claims. Typically trustees enjoy a right of indemnity to be reimbursed by the trust for all costs and expenses reasonably incurred while undertaking their duties. However, this right can be lost if the trustees fail to meet their duties, which could see them being forced to sell their own assets to meet the loss. This is a very important consequence, one which shouldn’t be taken lightly and needs to be considered when either appointing or being asked to be a trustee.

The number of trusts in New Zealand is growing, and reportedly sits around 240,000 –

this is based on the number of trusts that file tax returns with the Inland Revenue. However, other estimations have picked this number to be closer to 400,000.

So if appointing a professional adviser as a trustee is off limits, who should you use in their place? Or more accurately put, who would you subject to the rigors of trusteeship? Your best mate, your mother-in-law, your parents, or your brother or sister? If you can convince one of them to step-up as a trustee, what risks would they be exposed to and would they have to sell some of their assets to fund a claim?

Alternatively, if you decide to keep it simple and don’t use an independent trustee, would the trust be considered an altered ego of you or a sham trust?

That is, to what extent are the assets of the trust (e.g. the family home) treated as if they were your own, and consequently have the trustees acted in the best interests of the beneficiaries? The concept of a sham trust essentially stems from the notion that it is something that isn’t genuine, a disguise or a façade.

So with IRD’s witch-hunt underway, what will this mean for trusts in the future? Ensuring the structure of a trust is strong will ultimately rest with the trustees of the trust, so chose wisely.

Matthew Bellingham is CEO of innovative chartered accountancy practice Hayes Knight www.hayesknight.co.nz

You know your numbers...

but do you know their meaning?

Keeping your business future fit is about being better equipped to make bold and powerful financial decisions. At Hayes Knight, rather than just work the numbers, we interpret them. The result is a more empowered, knowledgeable client able to be proactive with the next steps of their business. To find out more, visit hayesknight.co.nz

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Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

Spring into your own building 187-189 ARCHERS ROAD, WAIRAU VALLEY, AUCKLAND

BRING YOUR IMAGINATION AND MAKE THE NUMBERS WORK FOR YOU •

590m2 High Stud Warehouse/Meeting Space/ Performance Area.

•

520m2 Air Conditioned Office/Meeting Room/Break Out Space.

•

1,110m2 Total Floor Area.

•

1,850m2 Land Area (all areas are approximate).

•

7 Toilets.

•

1 Shower.

•

3 Kitchens.

•

2 Roller Doors.

•

4 Pedestrian Doors.

•

2 Power Meters.

•

1 Temporary Division Wall Through Warehouse.

This property started life as an ordinary office/warehouse but has been used for a number of different types of uses over the years, including: Warehousing, Cheerleading, Pool Hall, Offices.

Now it is ready for your use. What is it going to be?

Office/Warehouse, Church, Entertainment, Clubrooms, Manufacturing?

Call now for an appointment to view and to discuss the opportunity.

For sale by negotiation.

Trevor Duffin Ph: 09 489 0978 l Mob: 021 245 9731 l trevor.duffin@bayleys.co.nz Devereux Howe-Smith Realty Limited. Bayleys, Licensed Under The Rea Act 2008.

16 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland, 0622 l PO Box 331 541, Takapuna, Auckland, 0740 www.bayleys.co.nz

Q&A - THE BURNING ISSUES How has our business community fared through the trials and challenges of 2011 and how do the prospects for the next 12 months stack up? For our final Burning Issues of the year, the Business Channel’s Michael Campbell put these questions to six leaders of our local business associations.

BUSINESS ASSOCIATION LEADERS What has been the greatest accomplishment Takapuna for business in Beach Business your area over the Association last year?

Recognition by Auckland Council of the role that Takapuna Beach can play in helping to ensure that Auckland becomes the most liveable city in the world Takapuna Beach is named as one of the eight metropolitan centres in Auckland which will receive prioritised spending ($440 million has been earmarked in the Draft Long Term Plan to be spent over the next 20 years; $290 million in the next 10). This recognition will help to accelerate Takapuna’s redevelopment - for a long time it has under performed, however it is currently entering a renaissance period, with astute investors such as Bob Jones realising its potential and making substantial investment in the town centre.

PETER WHITE

Did the RWC have any affect – positive or negative – on North Shore businesses?

RWC has had a marvellous effect on the country, portraying New Zealand in a positive manner to the rest of the world. We have embraced the RWC; a carnival atmosphere has endured, providing a most memorable tournament and proving us very hospitable hosts. However few businesses have benefited by the RWC - most retail has suffered,

HEATHER BELL

Browns Bay Business Association

What has been the greatest accomplishment for business in your area over the last year?

Survival during tough times.

A new committee full of enthusiasm and good ideas to invigorate Browns Bay business.

Did the RWC have any affect – positive or negative – on North Shore businesses?

Negative - especially during matches - people either staying home to watch or going to city/fan zones.

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although some hospitality providers in Takapuna are doing extremely well. Both residents and tourists have prioritised the RWC, paying large amounts to attend games and partaking in social occasions.

Consequently there is little discretionary spend available, however the All Blacks won the final - there is a good chance that the purse strings will remain open and we will experience a strong Christmas trading period, on the back of the positive mood of the nation.

What challenges are businesses facing in the current economic climate?

Survival has been the biggest challenge during the times of the Global Financial Crisis. New Zealand has survived better than most, however the fragility of the European and American economies could result in further difficult times.

Is there opportunity for growth in 2012 or are businesses still focused on surviving?

We are most positive about Takapuna’s 2012 prospects. There is a great deal of positivity about its future and significant investment in the town centre.

Alan Wiltshire’s McKenzies Project (the first major retail redevelopment that will help turn Takapuna to face the sea) will be opened in March; The Hurstmere Green redevelopment will be completed by Christmas and work on both the National Ocean Water Sports Centre and the Merge should begin before the end of the year. Takapuna has the lowest retail vacancy rate amongst the major town centres in Auckland and there are a number of redevelopment plans for existing buildings. Auckland Council’s commitment to Takapuna has provided further impetus and the future looks extremely positive.

What challenges are businesses facing in the current economic climate?

Public uncertainty about the economy’s future and people’s reluctance to spend.

Is there opportunity for growth in 2012 or are businesses still focused on surviving?

For innovative businesses there’s always opportunity for growth. Businesses need to concentrate on outstanding customer service building a loyal customer base is the best way to ensure business health.

Businesses need to concentrate on outstanding customer service - building a loyal customer base…

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

What has been the greatest Mairangi accomplishment for business in Bay Business your area over Association and the last year?

Torbay Business Mairangi Bay: We Association are a relatively new BID and this last year we have really started to see many of the projects come to maturity. For the first time in many years, all the businesses are working together for the community and the common good, rather than just as individuals. Working with other community groups and the development of our Village News magazine has been really good.

Torbay: This year we marketed Torbay as a Centre of excellence for health and beauty, as half of our businesses fall under this umbrella. We have almost every aspect of health and beauty very well represented. We also rebranded ourselves with a more up to date image.

CAROLE MCMINN

Did the RWC have any affect – positive or negative – on North Shore businesses?

Mairangi Bay has been quieter than normal during the RWC. RWC passed Torbay by!

What challenges are businesses facing in the current economic climate?

Mairangi Bay: The challenges are huge. Spending nationally has reduced, so there are more businesses chasing a smaller pot. It’s also important to keep a good balance of businesses in the Village, to make it an attractive and interesting Centre to visit.

Torbay: Because of higher fuel costs, people prefer to shop locally - we just need to provide a high level of service.

Is there opportunity for growth in 2012 or are businesses still focused on surviving?

Mairangi Bay: 2012 will hopefully see an upturn in growth of sales. We are a fabulous Centre, with a diverse range of individual stores all giving good service. We are planning for an upturn.

Torbay: Due to the impending start to the development at Long Bay we are in a unique position to capture these new residents.

What has been the greatest accomplishment Milford Business for business in Association your area over the last year?

Getting the WOW factor back into the Milford community, by running innovative market days, promotions and especially getting the Village Square revamp completed including a Jeff Thompson sculpture and lighting.

MURRAY HILL

Getting the WOW factor back into the Milford community, by running innovative market days, promotions and especially getting the Village Square revamp completed…

What has been the greatest accomplishment President Devonport Business for business in your area over Association the past year?

There have been three significant positive developments in Devonport over the past year.

Firstly the Victoria Theatre and Picture Palace (The Vic) has firmly established itself as an iconic entertainment destination. John Davies and his team are doing a tremendous job in bring the Vic back to its former glory and beyond. The top end of Victoria Road is now dynamic and alive with new retail businesses together - with quality cafes and bars being established around the Vic. I personally remember, as a much younger man, my wife and I taking the train into the city, catching a ferry and walking up to the Vic to watch a movie and then have dinner at a local eatery. We lived in Papakura at the time so it was quite a trip. It is again worthwhile for anyone to take the trip, to visit the oldest cinema in New Zealand and enjoy the wonderful experience.

The second ‘accomplishment’ has been the very successful Navy Museum at Torpedo Bay. This magnificent enterprise is a real asset to Devonport, greater Auckland and the country as a whole.

The award winning building is ideally located at the base of North Head, which has a strong military history. Visiting the museum should be on

EDDIE DE HEER

Did the RWC have any affect – positive or negative – on North Shore businesses?

No significant effect – pretty much business as usual, although locals have been impressed by the

everyone’s ‘must do’ list.

The third positive accomplishment has been the significant re-development of the Devonport Wharf building. Council has recognised the significant importance of the wharf, as the key gateway to the North Shore, and has taken measures to address the outstanding maintenance and functional issues. The wharf is now set to deliver stage two of its redevelopment, which will see the function and use aligned with its role as a key transport hub, while taking full advantage of its truly amazing location.

Did the RWC have any affect – positive or negative – on Devonport businesses?

Both. Positive in so far as a lot of work has been done in and around Devonport to prepare it for the RWC visitors. The catalyst for the wharf upgrade was undoubtedly the RWC and it has brought the state of the wharf to the Council’s attention, which is a good thing. Devonport is looking fantastic with flowers, art and a general smarten up really enhancing the main business and shopping district.

On the other hand, I am unsure where the projected 95,000 visitors have gone, but it has not been to Devonport. There has been a lift in visitor numbers but this has not resulted in better retail sales. The bars and cafes were busier but the ones that did well were the ones who prepared themselves and marketed well ahead of time.

What challenges are businesses facing in the current economic climate?

Devonport is in good shape considering that the country is still firmly in the grips of the global economic down turn. Quality vacant retail

international flags the association put up along all the verandas and many stores did rugby-themed window displays, which has created a festive atmosphere in Milford.

What challenges are businesses facing in the current economic climate?

The tough economic conditions, almost weekly sales by major retailers and on-line shopping are challenges in Milford and we have to counter that with the uniqueness of many of our specialty businesses and by providing great customer service that is lacking in many major chains.

Is there opportunity for growth in 2012 or are businesses still focused on surviving?

There is definitely opportunity for growth. We are soon to launch our new website, courtesy of Benefitz (publisher of CHANNEL magazine), which will give many of our businesses a better on-line profile and we have got some unique promotions coming up in the next year that will have people noticing Milford more.

space in the Main Street is still very difficult to find with empty shops being quickly snapped up.

There remains a stable selection of New Zealand owned independent shops that offer unique quality products that one will not find in the large malls.

Devonport is the perfect mix of quality shops, set in historic Victorian and Edwardian buildings, and it is surrounded by some of the most magnificent natural beauty in New Zealand.

Commercial office space has taken a bit of a hit with historically high vacancy rates. There has been a reversal of late with most quality space now being taken.

Businesses are beginning to recognise that Devonport is in fact a wonderful place from which to establish their premises. Free parking, easy access to the CBD by way of a quick 10 minute ferry ride to or from the heart of the city, rents significantly below city prices and a wonderful work environment - make Devonport the ideal location for small to medium sized businesses.

There is currently a strong representation of creative and I.T. businesses within Devonport, together with professional services, whose client base includes those in the city centre. The Spanish Consulate is based in Devonport and it has found that it is the ideal location for them to represent the interests and people of Spain in Auckland.

Is there opportunity for growth in 2012 or are businesses still focused on surviving?

Growth is definitely on the horizon. The recently released Auckland Council - Draft City Centre Master Plan has identified Devonport as being one of the five key fringe villages around the city’s core. The other villages being Ponsonby, Newton, Newmarket, and Parnell. Devonport is now firmly

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

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Q&A - THE BURNING ISSUES

Continued from previous page…

on the agenda of Auckland Council and we can expect to see significant developments, with regard to infrastructure upgrades and waterfront development. Already $10 million is earmarked for the Marine Square and wharf building upgrade, with the action plan putting the works in the ‘Do Now’ category. Improved public transport, upgraded broadband infrastructure, and a progressive and supportive Local Board will enhance Devonport, as a preferred visitor as well as business destination. Devonport is currently Auckland’s 4th most visited destination. This will only increase in years to come.

Another very significant part of Devonport’s future success lies in its strong and dynamic arts culture. Long recognised for fostering a diverse representation in all the arts, from multimedia, to music, literature to creative expression, Devonport is poised to become the ‘Urban Arts Village’ of New Zealand.

Through the sterling work of Linda Blinko and her team at The Depot Art Space, the Urban Arts Village of Devonport is becoming a reality. Anyone in Devonport during Art Week would have been immersed in the wonderful world of the Arts and will have been captured by a magnificent sense that Devonport is the artistic heart of Auckland.

Devonport is poised to become the ‘Urban Arts Village’ of New Zealand.

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If you think your business qualifies contact Phil Hickling, Fund Manager, 09 302 5394 or philh@lifewise.org.nz or www.microfinance.org.nz

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THE BUSINESS CHANNEL

Land Development Consultants Project Managers -

Issue 4 - NOVEMBER 2011

What has been the greatest accomplishment for business in your area over the last North Harbour year?

Business The greatest accomplishment Association for many of our businesses in the last 12 months has been their ability to retain funding relationships, retain market share and where appropriate, manage the impact of international currency fluctuations.

Those facing increased competition within the domestic or international markets have been forced to look at improved business efficiency elements - streamlining of processes to increase productivity across the board.

JANINE BRINSDON

Did the RWC have any affect – positive or negative – on North Shore businesses?

IRB Rugby World Cup did increase the profile of the region.

However based on our research, most of the publicity and contacts made were not of an opportunistic nature – rather they were the output of established and well worked relationships – onshore and offshore. The RWC was the catalyst for a face-toface meeting.

What challenges are businesses facing in the current economic climate?

The challenges faced by businesses in the current economic climate reflect similar issues. The ability to maintain lines of credit supported by an effective foreign exchange strategy is critical effective hedging will provide that all important operating margin.

Attracting additional funds is not so much the issue as banks have money to lend, providing businesses can satisfy the lender regarding overall security and can demonstrate through a sound business plan a solid future income stream. Business Plan elements such established supplier base relationships, structured working partnerships with the businesses clients and control of the cost of operations are under increased scrutiny.

Is there opportunity for growth in 2012 or are businesses still focused on surviving?

For many of our North Harbour businesses, their focus throughout 2012 will be on survival and the retention of key relationships.

Export opportunities are key for many companies looking to grow, leveraging off the advantage against the even higher Australian dollar and maximising the opportunities made possible through the CER agreement.

The forthcoming election will be closely monitored by those looking for support – for example through reduction in bureaucracy, R&D or business capability funding, or to support increased human resources.

North Harbour Business Association will continue to drive economic development within our BID area by advocating for resources, which increase business efficiency to ensure the potential of this region is achieved.

For many of our North Harbour businesses, their focus throughout 2012 will be on survival and the retention of key relationships.

CORPORATE APPAREL AND PROMO ITEMS with DAVISDOHERTY

DAVISDOHERTY – YOUR ONE STOP SHOP Corporate apparel and promotional items In recent issues we have introduced the new DavisDoherty Corporate Apparel Showroom in Albany. In addition to their huge range of corporate apparel, DavisDoherty also offer ‘promotional Items’. As we weren’t entirely sure what was meant by ‘promotional items’ we thought the best person to enlighten our readers would be Paul Davis, the enthusiastic owner of DavisDoherty Ltd. “You are right to ask,” said Paul, “because many so-called ‘promotional items’ do little or nothing to help promote a business or service. It is so important to choose carefully. Having spent over 30 years in commercial photography and marketing in the UK before coming to New Zealand I am happy to be able to offer that experience to clients here when advising them on the best way to advertise their products or services to their own clients.”

Taking us through to the ‘Promotion’ part of the DavisDoherty showroom where there is an enormous range of products on display - everything from coffee mugs to beach towels to golf tees – Paul proceeds to explain the rationale behind a ‘good’ product.

“Basically we can supply you with anything you like that can be branded. But, especially in these difficult economic times, the important thing is to spend your marketing dollars wisely. Don’t waste your money on ‘cheap’ gimmicky items that will do little or nothing to win you extra business. Think carefully. Decide what you want to achieve. Have a clear idea of the kind of customer you want to appeal to. Try and choose an item that will not end up in the ‘round file’ (aka the waste basket!) within a very short space of time.”

Paul then picks up a smart but ordinary object. A ruler - the sort of everyday office product that is found on any desk anywhere. He then goes on to tell us that he has just such a ruler on his own desk, printed with the details of one of his former customers in the UK. “Can you believe it? I have had this ruler for over 30 years! It has been round the world with me – twice! It sits on my desk and I use it just about every day – as a page marker, a back scratcher and a fly swatter as well as for drawing the occasional straight line! But the point is, a ruler is a useful object and one which, as I myself have proved, is unlikely to be thrown away. As a branding tool for my UK customer it has paid for itself a hundred times over.”

“My advice to anyone wanting to brand a promotional item, either as an inexpensive give-away or, perhaps, as a corporate gift, is to choose the product carefully. With the vast array of promotional products available it is possible, also, to choose exactly the right product for your industry. We did a great campaign a while back for a cleaning company – they left each client with a duster printed with their name and contact details. Brilliant” The promotional item arm of the DavisDoherty business is, of course, very much an adjunct to their core business of Corporate Apparel. The synergy lies in the branding. Many objects can be screen printed or even embroidered with clients’ logos, so with artwork already set up for uniforms it indeed makes sense to use DavisDoherty as a one-stop shop for promotional needs as well. With Paul’s experience on hand to help you, you know that whatever you choose will work for you. Thanks, Paul!

Davis Doherty, 237 Bush Rd, Albany. Phone 09 414 4541 or visit their online showroom: www.davisdoherty.co.nz

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SOCIAL MEDIA MENTIONS

Tracking SOCIAL MEDIA The best practice in social media is to track everything that you do.

Why? So that you can learn what it is your audience likes and doesn’t like – and what will motivate your audience to take a desired action.

Simply put, tracking social media activity will improve your results.

In Facebook, there are quite a few ways to measure activity.

To begin, you can easily measure your content performance right on the Facebook wall. Creating a benchmark for the average number of Likes, Shares and Comments will establish the average fan reaction to your activity. This will begin to paint a picture of what your fans like.

Another way to measure your content is to include trackable links in your posts. By using link shortening websites such as bit.ly or goo.gl, not only does your link look better, but you will also be able to measure how many people click on your link – and when.

Once you have established your benchmarks, you can test and compare new content to determine whether it resonates with your fans. By establishing benchmarks and continuing to measure post activity, you can track what type of content is more popular, what time of day you should post and what type of content elicits more desired actions. This can all be done in an Excel spreadsheet or any basic reporting template, and each

Once you have established your benchmarks, you can test and compare new content to determine whether it resonates with your fans. month you will walk away with a little bit better understanding of what works and does not work for your specific social media personality.

For general activity trending, Facebook Insights is also a good tool. The tool tracks your Facebook page’s activity over time including New Likes, Unlikes, Active Users, Page Views, Photo Views and Video Views. Keeping an eye on these general trends will help you identify broader activity, such as the number of Facebook actions completed each week, that may either be helping or hindering your page’s overall performance.

In general, the goal is to not leave your Facebook content to guesswork.

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Taking the time to monitor your page, your content and their performance against set benchmarks will help you identify what does and does not work.

In Twitter, measurement is a bit more difficult as general reporting must be completed by outside resources. However, there are two key measurements that are found on the Tweets themselves: Replies and Retweets. A reply is a great engagement metric if you have used the Tweet to ask for comments or opinions while retweets on the other hand show a followers affinity for the post.

Again, benchmarking and tracking what topics and forms of engagement used in Twitter will help you better understand what resonates for your brand. However, keep in mind that Twitter is much more fast-paced than Facebook, so finding a tracking system that works and you actually use is key.

Free resources for over arching Twitter measurement include www.twittercounter.com and www.tweetreach.com.

Twitter Counter allows you to see basic Twitter activity over time – and in the past. The two big trends shown through this resource are new Followers per day and number of tweets per day.

Tweet Reach allows you to see how many people are exposed to a Tweet or set of Tweets by searching for keywords or Twitter handle activity from up to the last 48 hours to determine how many Tweets were sent, how many impressions (or possible users saw these Tweets because they follow the account) were created and the reach of those impressions (the number of unique users who saw the Tweet). Not only does this tool let you see the impact of the messaging in the search, but it also lets you see the actual Tweets and the major contributors to the Tweet’s distribution.

Often with limited budget and resources, social media just becomes something you quickly do each day or once a week to check it off the list.

But, with the use of simple tracking to truly learn what your fans like and what your fans respond to, your social media actions can be significantly more effective and produce better results. Thus, making the investment in time and money for social media worthwhile. Also, it provides a small pool from which to better understand your customer – and what they may or may not react well to in your business’ every day dealings.

Take the time, track and optimise what you post in social media to gain results.

Social media is not a stand alone product to keep separated from the rest of your marketing activity.

Especially here in New Zealand, where we are still jumping on this fast moving bandwagon, you need to be sure to communicate your social media activity through your traditional outlets. An easy way to start is to make sure that the social media icons are printed on key materials and to ensure that your staff know about the content and perks you offer via your social media.

FUNCTIONS & EVENTS with THE SPENCER ON BYRON HOTEL, TAKAPUNA

SIT BACK, RELAX… and let The Spencer take care of your Christmas this year!

The Spencer on Byron Hotel recently launched a new dining concept they call Thyme Restaurant. Thyme uses in season, fresh local produce to bring you a variety of innovative menu dishes. As we highlighted in the September issue the concept is very special and has been received well by visitors and locals. The Thyme Restaurant team have developed excellent special Christmas menus that are available through until Christmas and also special buffet menus just for Christmas Day. So you can sit back, relax and let Spencer take care of your Christmas.

Christmas Set Menu for 6 or more Available right through December until Christmas.

This is for groups of six or more and is priced at just $42.50 per person for two courses or $55.00 per person for three courses.

Menu includes – Entrée: Shrimp & Avocado Tartare or Pumpkin Soup or Caesar Salad. Main: Roast Turkey & Ham or Seared Salmon or Grilled Scotch Fillet. Dessert: Christmas Pudding or Mini Pavlova or Ice Cream Sundae.

Christmas Buffet Menu - Perfect for your work Christmas Function Available right through December until Christmas.

Tailored specifically for those who want the perfect Takapuna venue for that work Christmas function.

A buffet with over 20 items to choose from. Priced at just $62.50 per person (minimum of 30 people).

Christmas Day Family Buffet Lunch or Buffet Dinner Book now to have your Christmas Day Lunch or Dinner at Thyme Restaurant.

Lunch starts at 12 noon and runs through until 2.30pm. Dinner is from 7pm through until 9.30pm.

Adults $145, Children $35 (12 and under) $12.50 (Under 5 and under).

Thyme Restaurant provides an award winning dining experience blending fresh, innovative cuisine, an extensive menu and friendly staff, with elegant and welcoming surroundings. It’s no wonder The Spencer on Byron’s team of renowned chefs and its restaurant and bar staff have won so many medals for their culinary delights and hospitality. They’ve worked hard at it and are tops among Auckland restaurants. Go ahead, indulge. Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, allow us to transform your meal into an elegant and memorable dining experience.

To book phone 916-4982 now or visit www.spencerhotel.co.nz/thyme Thyme Restaurant, Level 1, Spencer on Byron Hotel, Byron Avenue, Takapuna. Email: thyme@spencerbyron.co.nz

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE, EXPERIENCE SPENCER Thyme Restaurant uses in season, fresh local produce to bring you a variety of innovative menu dishes including Grilled Angus Fillet Steak, Hawkes Bay Lamb Cutlet and Vodka and Dill smoked Malborough Salmon.

Live entertainment Monday to Saturday makes Thyme Restaurant the perfect place to celebrate!

To make a reservation call 09 916 4982 or visit www.spencerhotel.co.nz/thyme Level 1, 9-17 Byron Avenue - Takapuna Beach, Auckland

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NORTH HARBOUR BUSINESS ASSOCIATION UPDATE

CRIME PREVENTION

tool kit launched

Mayor Len Brown, Waitemata Police District Commander Bill Searle, DNA Forensic Property Marking and 1300 members .

What is the link? North Harbour Business Association’s Crime Prevention Tool Kit. The Mayor, Police District Commander and David Morrissey from SelectDNA all presented at the October launch of this new initiative – celebrating the first time in Australasia, and to our knowledge – the world, such a large scale distribution of forensic property marking product through a business network.

The Tool Kit forms the back bone of NHBA’s Crime Prevention Programme which aims to educate and empower our 1300 business and property owners to take steps to proactively manage crime.

The partners in this Tool Kit are all Albany based. The Tool Kit is available to all NHBA’s Full and Associate members – at no charge.

For more details, please contact crimeprevention@nhba.org.nz Business Directory will be popular Our other exciting news relates to our website – www.nhba.org.nz.

Recognising the importance of keeping business local, our Business Directory now offers business owners the opportunity to drive business and consumer deals through the NHBA network which collectively employs 13,000 people.

Janine Brinsdon General Manager, North Harbour Business Association.

(09) 968 2222. janine.brinsdon@nhba.org.nz

The potential for increased local sales or business service growth is exciting. Refer to www.nhba.org.nz/directory to see a list of local businesses.

Local business connecting Networking is another core element of the services we provide our members however we know that there are numerous opportunities for people to connect outside of the NHBA programme.

Changes to www.nhba.org.nz enable organisers to upload their own events – e.g. a training seminar, networking meeting – at no charge.

This facility will encourage even more local business interaction and development.

Please contact NHBA for your username and password so that you can upload your logo, images and promotional voucher to the directory, or your training/business development event to the calendar.

We look forward to hearing from you.

In each issue of the Business Channel, we will update you on the developments within our core projects and how they can benefit your business by providing effective and efficient business infrastructure for the North Harbour business estate. In between each issue, please refer to www.nhba.org.nz for the latest information.

The New Look nhba.org.nz It’s Simple.

Suppliers Go to your Business Directory listing and upload your special offer.

ly

On e l p m

Exa

Customers

Visit the Business Directory to enjoy offers from Businesses in the North Harbour area.

Ph 09 968 2222 Office F4, 27-29 William Pickering Drive, North Harbour, Auckland

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LEGAL BRIEF: with LYNCH & CO.

Sue Kohn-Taylor North Harbour Business Association Transport Project Manager www.transport@nhba.org.nz

REDUCE TRAVEL TIME

to North Harbour

Traffic congestion impacts on everyone working, living, visiting or studying within the North Harbour Business area. Reduction of congestion through the effective advocacy for improved public transport options, the provision of resources to ease access and the development of programmes to encourage multiple occupancy in vehicles are key elements of the North Harbour Business Association’s Smart Transport Solution programme.

These activities will enhance the travel options available to and from the business area.

“Look Before You Leave” programme For the 13,000 people who work or study in the North Harbour estate the twoway commute is an important part of their day. Two years ago a key initiative of the North Harbour Business Association (NHBA) transport management programme was to invest in the installation of 6 traffic cameras at key entry and exit points to the geographical area - which forms the NHBA Business Improvement District (BID).

These cameras operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week as NHBA recognises that their benefit extends beyond just the business commuters. The cameras are used by those who reside within the BID area, visit the numerous recreational facilities or make use of the cafes, restaurants, retail and educational facilities to plan their travel.

Through these cameras, commuters are aware of accidents or heavy traffic in particular areas and can then choose when to leave or which route to take. In general the ability to ‘Look Before Your Leave’ will also help with congestion at key roadway intersections during peak periods as more people will avoid areas where traffic is already heavy.

The six cameras have been placed at: • Cnr Bush Road and Rosedale Road • Cnr Bush Road and Albany Highway • Cnr Rosedale Road and Apollo Drive

• Cnr Rosedale Road and Tawa Drive • Cnr Rosedale Road and Albany Highway • Cnr Paul Mathews Road and Upper Harbour Highway

A major promotional campaign is due for launch September 2011, aimed at the 1300 businesses within the NHBA BID who will receive Transport Resource Packs which include flyers and practical reminders about the cameras. The campaign will encourage regular commuters to create a short cut on their desktop at home or the office, plus mobile phones. Business owners will be encouraged to include the following links on the business intranet to increase awareness. Schools have included live links to the cameras on their school electronic media to enable parents to plan the school run route more efficiently. NHBA is working with other key education providers in the area to ensure they follow the schools’ lead. For more information please refer to www.LookBeforeYouLeave.co.nz or www.nhba.org.nz

SELLING YOUR BUSINESS

Become “buyer ready” Sean Lynch, Director, Lync As a first step when selling your business, it is h & Co. important to place yourself “in the shoes” of an astute prospective buyer, and assume that person will also be receiving quality professional advice. You should set a “pre-sale action plan” with the goal of being ready to negotiate with such a buyer - to achieve your desired outcomes. By doing this, you will: • have considered and addressed the key issues which the “astute prospective buyer” would likely raise; • be more likely to maximise your sale price; and • ensure a smoother, quicker and more cost effective sale process.

You should start this process now, even if you are not thinking of selling right away.

It pays to be “buyer ready” at all times just in case the unexpected happens (e.g. a downturn in your health). It may be as simple as committing a few hours each month towards achieving the goal of being “buyer ready”.

So what does it take to become “buyer ready”? Below are some high level steps as a guide: 1. Consider your objectives Consider the following questions: when would be the ideal time to sell? Do you need to consider other shareholders or key people in the business – if so why and how?

Who might be interested in buying your business and why – what will they be looking for? What price do you think it is worth and why? What do you see yourself doing post sale? You may think of other questions.

2. Get good initial professional advice Invest in some initial assessment time with quality financial and legal professional advisers (i.e. both – not just either). Quality advisers will be able to objectively assess your thoughts, raise any further important issues that may need to be addressed, and assist with fleshing out and finalising your thoughts into an action plan.

3. Action your programme to become “buyer ready” This will involve undertaking a sort of “self due diligence”, and addressing issues such as: • Reviewing all material contracts to assess whether a buyer would be legally able (and if so, then willing) to take an assignment of those contracts for the price you are asking. Are some “contracts” merely based on a handshake and need to be formalised?

• Reviewing your contracts with key employees and any other key people such as agents or licensees. It may also involve reviewing issues relating to other shareholders and financiers to the business.

• Reviewing the legal status of the intellectual property rights you believe you own or otherwise have the right to use.

• Assessing what material risks, liabilities (actual or contingent), or other issues might exist or arise that an astute prospective buyer would likely query.

• What will be required in order to make the financial statements for your business “buyer ready”.

The end result should be that the “astute prospective buyer” is convinced that the business has been well run and that the profitability will continue post-purchase with minimal risk and without major re-work being required. For further information, please contact Sean on 09 948 8433 or sean@lynchandco.co.nz.

For further information, contact Sean on 09 948 8433 or sean@lynchandco.co.nz

If you would like details on other transport initiatives happening in the North Harbour area or you would like Sue Kohn-Taylor - NHBA’s Transport Project manager to make a brief presentation to staff about transport in North Harbour, please contact her on Ph 021 950 524 or email: transport@nhba.org.nz

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Now you can easily target North Shore people & business!

UPCOMING EVENTS & IMPORTANT DATES Friday 11 November 2011 – Getting more for less from your business Time: 8am - 10am Venue: Concourse Lounge, North Harbour Stadium, Albany Cost: $20 + GST Secure your spot now. Visit: www.ens.org.nz Tuesday 15 November 2011 – ecentre/Massey - Case Study Challenge Time: 12:45pm - 7:00pm. Venue: ecentre Limited, Massey University, Albany Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have your own business? Do you want to meet lots of like - minded people and expand your networks?

Limited spaces available. For more information: sabrina@ecentre.org.nz

TARGET SHORE BUSINESS

Wednesday 16 November 2011 Design for Success – Get a superior product to market faster Time: 7.30am – 11:30am. Venue: Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna Beach Cost: FREE – includes light breakfast Presenters: Mick Stracey Clitherow(MC Communications), Paul Adams (EveredgeIP), Brent O’Meagher (GPC Electronics), Paul Frater (Titanium Industry Development Association), Chris Lock (ATEED). Join us at an informative workshop where we put R& D under the microscope and explore how to design for success through all stages of the R&D process. Visit: www.ens.org.nz

The Business Channel. Published Bi-monthly, 12,450 copies posted and distributed to businesses North Shore wide.

Wednesday 16 November 2011 The Effective Network: How to avoid a Hiring Disaster Venue: Rotary Club of Orewa, 4 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Silverdale, Hibiscus Coast Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm. Cost: $29.99 + GST (purchase here) Presented by - Rob McKay (author of No More Square Pegs) Visit: www.ens.org.nz

NORTH SHORE’S BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Wednesday 16 November 2011 Design for Success - Get a superior product to market faster Time: 7.30am – 12pm. Venue: North Harbour Stadium, Albany Cost: COMPLIMENTARY! Includes a light breakfast Join us at an informative workshop where we put R&D under the microscope and explore how to design for success through all stages of the R&D process.

Visit: www.ens.org.nz

THE ESS BUSIN

Friday 18 November 2011 – Business Idea Workshop Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm Venue: ecentre Limited, Massey University, Gate 5, Oaklands Road, Albany Learn how to validate your business idea and create a successful business model and meet the experts in business start-ups and other ecentre entrepeneurs.

Limited spaces available. For more information: sabrina@ecentre.org.nz Thursday 24 November 2011 – Westpac Spring Business Series Featuring Davenports - How to get your brand out there?

Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm Venue: Windowmakers Design Centre, Silverdale Learn more from the award-winning Windowmakers on How to get your brand out there with Davenports teaching ou all about The Value of Intellectual Property and learn how to Manage Risk from Westpac. Drinks and canapês will be served upon arrival.This is a strictly limited offer to 30 people only at each seminar so secure your place today. R.S.V.P: Debbie at Windowmakers on 09 426 6901.

TARGET SHORE PEOPLE Channel Magazine. Published monthly, 22,250 copies distributed to homes and businesses in Devonport, Bayswater, Belmont, Takapuna, Milford, Forrest Hill, Westlake, Castor Bay, Campbells Bay, Mairangi Bay, Murrays Bay 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

Thursday 1 December 2011 Business Owners Forum - The Power of Branding for your Business Location: BNZ Partner’s Building, 61 Constellation Drive, Albany. Time: 5:30pm Cost: Complimentary (registration necessary for catering purposes) What does it take for your business to unleash the full potential of its brand? Our panel will discuss this question from three different angles at the final Business Owners Forum event for 2011. Bring along your questions, experience and/or ideas.

Visit: www.ens.org.nz or Email: team.north@aucklandnz.com Wed 8 Feb 2012 – Focus on Economic & Employment Development (FEED) Time: 10:00am – 11:30 am, Venue: Concourse Lounge, North Harbour Stadium, Cost: COMPLIMENTARY. The FEED group meets to network and learn of information relevant to the areas of the economy and employment. Membership is open to all businesses, community groups and professionals with an interest in employment and economic development on the North Shore.

Visit: www.ens.org.nz or Email: team.north@aucklandnz.com Friday 2 March 2012 – Starting off Right workshop Time: 9:30am-1:00pm. Cost: COMPLIMENTARY Venue: BNZ Partners Building, Constellation Drive, Mairangi Bay. This workshop is designed to address questions most people have when starting a new business. You will have the opportunity to discuss in groups general topics and those raised on the day with others who are commencing their own business.

This will also provide a great opportunity to network with others whereby you may provide and receive support. Visit: www.ens.org.nz Business Excellence Network Breakfasts 2012 Save these dates (speakers TBC):-

7 March; 9 May; 25 July; 5 September; 7 November 2012 Time: 7:30am - 9:00am. Venue: Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna Beach Price: $65 + GST Visit: www.ens.org.nz

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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 20 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

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