FYI November 2011

FYI

Updating and informing the North Harbour Business Community

ISSUE 14 • NOVEMBER 2011

Making public transport easy Inside Issue 14 NOVEMBER 2011 2-3 Information From the Chair, new board members and new BID policy 4-5 Information Business Plan 2012/2013 and new associate members 6-7 Celebrating success Telecom, North Harbour Travel, Wine Club 8-9 Transport Transport resource pack, parking hotspots, satisfaction survey 10-11 Events Rob Fyfe Business Breakfast, Kristin School 12-13 Events Dr Lester Levy Business Breakfast, Flo2Cash, Golf Tournament 14-15 Crime Prevention Tool Kit launch, crime alert, vehicle crime 16 Sponsors Trade Colour Print, North Shore Golf Club

Saveer p $147 se ca NHBA Wine Club David Prescott from Wine and More has put together a mixed case of stunning wines just for NHBA members.

See page 6

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sing public transport effectively relies on being able to plan your journey using the most appropriate transport options regardless of which private company runs them.

Which is what MAXX was created to do.

Effectively a brand for public transport in Auckland, MAXX provides members of the public with an integrated portal for timetable information, service updates, events, advice and journey planning tools.

It does so through its website, call centre and now smartphone applications.

MAXX’s Pierre Houzet says the website gets about 600,000 visits a month, while the free iPhone app was downloaded 6000 times in the first 10 days after its release. The Android version is due for release later in November. “Our call centre staff are really highly trained in public transport solutions, they’re not just reading from scripts,” Pierre says.

Members of the public can use the smartphone app and the “light site” for mobile viewing in order to not only plan their journey but also to see exactly how close their bus is to their bus stop. All by punching in the bus stop number – you’ll never need to spend excess time at the bus stop wondering if you’ve missed your bus, or if it’s just running late.

Pierre says the advent of the supercity and the creation of Auckland Transport hasn’t changed MAXX’s brand values, in fact it’s made it stronger. The new organisation has enabled closer interaction with colleagues, which helps get information out to the public much quicker, for example during huge road closures for the Triathlon World Cup event held on November 20.

“We’ve been able to have notices up on all the bus stops telling people what’s happening and where to go for some time, to help them plan ahead.”

A quick check with MAXX could save a lot of stress that can come with using public transport, and also save you time.

The NHBA worked closely with MAXX in developing the Transport Resource Pack (see page 8-9) in order to help employers and businesses make the most of the public transport options on offer. www.maxx.co.nz 366 6400 or 0800 10 30 80

Save the date NHBA Golf Tournament

A great day to enjoy the lifestyle and business opportunities North Harbour has to offer. Join the other competitors for fun, sport and goodnatured competition with the added bonus of networking with other local businesses.

Thursday December 8, registration opens 11am, shotgun start at 12pm North Shore Golf Club, Appleby Road, Albany $165.00 plus GST per person or $140 plus GST per person for a team of four. Any profits from this fee will be donated to a local charity announced on the day. The entry fee covers the course fee, barbecue brunch, drinks and food, as well as lots of prizes.

Email admin@nhba.org.nz to get an entry form. Make sure you register quickly to avoid disappointment as places for this event are strictly limited.

After 5 End of Year Business After 5 Join NHBA’s Executive Committee and staff at our final function for 2011. It will be a great chance to celebrate the key milestones reached during the year and to look ahead at the opportunities 2012 brings. We will also take this opportunity to thank our Gold Sponsors for 2011 and announce the Gold Sponsors for 2012.

Thursday December 8, 5pm-7.30pm North Shore Golf Club, Appleby Road Free to NHBA members and associate members (one complimentary ticket per business, additional guests $15 each) Email admin@nhba.org.nz to register See www.nhba.org.nz for more details

The Business Luncheon with Auckland Mayor Len Brown

He doesn’t really need any introduction as the first mayor of Auckland Supercity.

Len will give us an update on achievements and challenges to date and major developments for the City going forward.

Friday February 10, 1pm-2.30pm North Shore Golf Club, Appleby Road Free to NHBA members and associate members (one complimentary ticket per business, additional guests $25 each) Email admin@nhba.org.nz to register

Official publication of the North Harbour Business Association INC www.nhba.org.nz

organisational structure

From the chair Welcome to the last FYI magazine for the year. Having just had our Annual General Meeting, it was a great pleasure to present our Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2011 and our Business Plan for the years ending 30 June 2012 and 2013.

T

he past financial year has been a busy one that saw the restructuring of our activities and the induction of a new executive team led by General Manager Janine Brinsdon. We also maintained operations within the budgeted guidelines, expanded services and our funding base, and focused on improving communications with members in all media.

We are now starting to reap the dividends of these efforts, especially through very good communications with Auckland Council and other government agencies.

As we work through the establishment of a new policy framework for Business Improvement Districts, we continue to receive valuable guidance and support from Auckland Council (previously North Shore City Council), Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development and the Upper Harbour Local Board.

We see North Harbour and Albany as a northern gateway for commercial, education, tourism and sporting activities, and as such we have taken an active part in the review of the new Upper Harbour Local Board’s Annual Plan.

Our own plan now stretches over the next two financial years as we believe this assists us with our long-term planning as well as provide us with an opportunity to seek longer-term funding. It also aligns us with the Auckland Council’s annual planning process.

You can download the full Annual Report and Annual Plan documents on our website www.nhba.org.nz In the New Year we will be holding a poll of all our members seeking your support for the ongoing operations of the NHBA. If we are to retain our core targeted rate to fund our base resources, we need a strong positive vote.

I would encourage you to become involved in the process and volunteer any feedback on how we can be of further service to you.

And finally, the AGM also saw the retirement of three of our Executive Committee members: Robin Siraj, Penny Gordon and Pamela Peryman.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for their effort and time over the years, as well as welcome our three new faces (see opposite page).

Make the most of the final weeks of 2011 and I look forward to seeing many of you at our end of year function on Thursday December 8.

Warren Kitchin

Yours sincerely

advocacy and representation

Draft BID policy Auckland Council sees Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) as key local components for creating a productive and high value economy, as well as helping to ensure that Auckland is New Zealand’s economic powerhouse.

As such, they have put together a draft policy that the Auckland’s BIDs – including the North Harbour Business Association – would have to operate under.

The overall aim of the new policy is to encourage the establishment of more BIDs around the city and ensure that they are achieving what they set out to do.

The new policy aims to confirm the Council’s support for BID partnerships, clear up funding inconsistencies across Auckland, set up equitable targeted rate mechanism for an integrated rates policy and remove uncertainty for business association partners.

NHBA has worked actively and closely with the Auckland Council in the development of the draft policy, which substantially follows the basis of our current operational guidelines. We have made a generally supportive submission to Council that includes a number of suggestions for improvement and raised points for clarification to assist in finalising the policy in the near term.

The feedback period on the draft BID policy has ended and final changes are being made before the final policy is presented to Council before Christmas.

If the policy is confirmed then it will be in place in time for the 2012/2013 financial year.

The NHBA website will carry updates on the progress of this policy document and how it will affect you as members. www.nhba.org.nz

Get in contact If you have comments on anything in here, or would like to see your business profiled, give us a call.

Editor of FYI: Ellie van Baaren, 021 774 831 General Manager: Janine Brinsdon, 09 968 2222, 021 212 4942

Warren Kitchin CA Dip NZIM Chairman NHBA

2 • FYI november 2011 • www.nhba.org.nz

© All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the North Harbour Business Association.

Organisational Strucure

New board members

At the recent Annual General Meeting, three new local business people were appointed to the North Harbour Business Association Executive Committee. Here’s an introduction to these newcomers.

Les Probert

Brenden Rolston

Jenny Watson

An independent marketing consultant via his business ePromotionz Ltd, for the past 10 years Les has been specialising in online and digital marketing for small to medium businesses. Within that, a key area of focus is social media and helping businesses with lead generation. He also operates two internet sites – the eBook library site www.101besttips.com and www.mytraca. com, the innovative tag product reuniting owners with lost items.

He has had a long career in management primarily in the travel and tourism sector, including 14 years in senior roles with Thomas Cook Travel, the role of global CEO of talpacific holidays (a niche Pacific wholesaler) and TRIPS, the loyalty and incentive company. Les has also worked in FMCG as a sales manager of Biro Bic and in the building industry.

Les has previously been a board member of TAANZ (Travel Agents Association of New Zealand), chairman of the tour operators group OTOC and a trustee of Enterprise North Shore. This is his second stint on the NHBA Executive Committee.

As a long time local businessman and dedicated “shoreite” Les looks forward to assisting NHBA’S ongoing success and growth.

Email: les@epromotionz.co.nz Phone: 021 283 3773 Website: www.epromotionz.co.nz

As managing director of Actionmail Brenden is in charge of a high energy, highly innovative company that specialises in big impact, creative direct marketing services. Based at 11 Saturn Place in the North Harbour Industrial Estate, the 15-yearold company now also has offices in NSW Australia, meaning they can provide a competitive edge to local businesses with interests or aspirations across the Tasman.

Brenden also manages Actionmail’s sister company, Access Records Management, a business specialising in billing services, document scanning, archiving and office administration automation.

He is passionate about business excellence and high value, database driven marketing, which made Actionmail’s sponsorship of the 2011 ATEED (Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development) Westpac Business Excellence in Marketing Award a perfect fit.

Brenden and his wife Toni have two children – Texon (5) and Charlize (2 and a half) – and he says he enjoys showjumping and polo, as well as island holidays.

Email: brenden.rolston@actionmail.co.nz Phone: 415 4508 Website: www.actionmail.co.nz Find Actionmail on Twitter and Facebook, and connect with Brenden on LinkedIn.

Born raised on the North Shore and in Rodney, Jenny Watson always knew she wanted to establish a law career back on the Shore.

She achieved her BA LLB (Hons) at the University of Auckland and spent her next five years gaining experience at the large CBD law firm Brookfields, during which time she was admitted to the bar. Then it was time to move back to the Shore, where she has practiced for the past eight years, six of them with Davenports Harbour Law in Rosedale Road.

Jenny is a commercial law specialist, however, she has a broad legal background that includes commercial property, trust law, banking and finance, company and commercial law, general practice and conveyancing. Her role takes in a wide range of commercial and property work, including assisting clients with company matters, such as joint venture arrangements, company structuring and tailored shareholders’ agreements. She particularly enjoys creating one-off commercial contracts and can assist clients with leases, subdivisions and commercial property acquisitions and sales.

Jenny currently lives in Gulf Harbour with her husband and their two children.

Email: jenny.watson@davenportsharbour. co.nz Phone (09) 915 4380 Website: www.davenportsharbour.co.nz

Owner ePromotionz Ltd

Managing Director Actionmail Ltd

Senior Solicitor Davenports Harbour Law

www.nhba.org.nz • FYI november 2011 • 3

AGM

Business Plan: NHBA moves forward

At the recent Annual General Meeting, the North Harbour Business Association put forward their plan for 2012 and 2013. Here is a summary. voice that provides the NHBA with leverage to influence key decision makers at local and central government level.

Effective advocacy

by NHBA on behalf of our members will ensure North Harbour’s local needs are not only understood, but also given appropriate attention.

Vision: To develop North Harbour as Auckland’s location of choice for investment, businesses, customers, employees, visitors and our local residents.

We will expand our membership base and increase the depth of services we provide, especially in the areas of economic development and advocacy.

Purpose: Our member programmes and services empower economic prosperity and growth, connect local commercial activity and encourage employment through attracting, retaining and developing organisations in our sectors of advantage (ie IT/communications, education, niche manufacturing, import/ distribution, elite/professional sports, tourism, export, services and retail).

Mission: To represent members effectively and deliver quality

services that add value to their organisations and the wider community in a focused, professional, cost-effective and sustainable manner.

Advocacy and Representation Auckland’s new single council

A big thank you

structure is designed to create benefits through economies of scale, however, the increased scope also brings a diverse range of priorities which require local government management.

The NHBA represents around 1500 businesses and commercially zoned property owners, creating a collective

the right direction. Every one of them is committed to making the local area, and the businesses within it, a success.

The end of this year sees the retirement of three Executive Committee members and the NHBA would like to recognise the work they have done over the years and thank them for their efforts.

T

he NHBA would not be able to provide these services and represent the business community effectively without time, effort, support and funding of our Executive Committee members, sponsors and key stakeholders such as Auckland Council and the Police.

The Executive Committee members volunteer their time and energy to keep the association running and heading in

4 • FYI november 2011 • www.nhba.org.nz

Penny Robin Siraj Gordon Midas Car Care Albany Unichem Rosedale Pharmacy

Pamela Peryman Kristin School

Economic Development The next 24 months will see an increase in the depth of our economic development programmes to support our members’ plans for growth.

We will facilitate access to governance, improved infrastructure and special interest group resources with partners such as Auckland Council and Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED).

We will represent businesses’

We’d also like to take this opportunity to thank our Gold Sponsors for 2010/2011 for their support and commitment to the NHBA. • BNZ Partners • ILG Insurance • Vision Accounting Solutions Ltd • Trade Colour Print (see page 16) • Coverstaff Recruitment • North Shore Golf Club (see page 16) • Speedy Signs If you’d like to be a Gold Sponsor for the 2012 year or beyond, contact General Manager Janine Brinsdon on gm@nhba. org.nz or 968 2222. www.nhba.org.nz

AGM

Associate members

NHBA General Manager Janine Brinsdon.

© Championship Digital

While NHBA membership is open to all businesses in our catchment area, there is also the opportunity for businesses in the surrounding parts of Albany – such as Triton Drive, Constellation Drive and Apollo Drive – to join as Associate Members and take advantage of the benefits on offer. We have had several recent additions to this list including:

needs to educators at institutions such as Massey University and Unitec in order to facilitate more student internships and project placements, generating “work-ready” candidates for our local employment market.

We will identify our members’ needs and develop appropriate opportunities through specialist business capability providers such as ICEHOUSE, UKTI and NZ Trade and Enterprise.

Networking During the 2010/2011 year more than 1000 members attended NHBA events.

NHBA After Five: This event continues to be an important aspect of NHBA’s networking and business development function. Five are planned for each calendar year.

NHBA Business Breakfast: This event is aimed at key leaders and influencers but now also reaches second level management. Sponsors have effectively used the event as a platform to announce innovations and new products and services, or to reiterate their ongoing commitment to the North Harbour business area. A minimum of five sponsored Business Breakfast events will be held in each financial year.

NHBA Annual Golf Tournament: December 2011 sees the initiation of this golf tournament at the North Shore Golf Club. It will provide a competitive yet social backdrop for business development and networking.

The format provides sponsorship opportunities for businesses looking to raise their profile within and beyond the BID area. Any surplus monies raised from the entry price will be donated to a local charity.

NHBA Gold Sponsorship: The financial

contributions from our Gold Sponsors has a significant impact on the quality of programmes we can offer. Each Gold Sponsor receives profile and branding at all business development events and through NHBA’s media. They also provide exclusive value-add offers and discounts to all members, details of which are displayed at www.nhba.org. nz. The number of Gold Sponsors is limited and provides exclusivity within business sectors.

Transport Management There are four goals in this area: • provide efficient transport management • promote the use of diversified travel options • increase awareness and interaction • provide an effective organisational team to deliver and grow the TMA (Transport Management Area) For more information on how the NHBA plans to do this, see pages 8 and 9.

Crime Prevention Programme The Association’s proactive approach will continue during the next 24 months. The Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design surveys, Tool Kit initiative and business seminars will support the established security patrol and NZ Police relationships. NHBA continues to develop additional Crime Prevention products and services to assist members.

For more information on the NHBA’s plans for the Crime Prevention Programme, see pages 14 and 15.

Download the full business plan and annual report documents at www.nhba.org.nz

TelstraClear New Zealand’s second largest telecommunications company has around 400,000 customers nationwide. It had its beginnings at Telstra New Zealand in 1996, and is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Telstra Corporation (Australia).

Realising that customers in New Zealand have a choice, TelstraClear focuses on giving them a reason to change networks – innovative and integrated communications solutions for businesses and consumers. It has the best IP network in New Zealand and offers the market’s best trans-Tasman services. TelstraClear’s headquarters are in Smales Farm. www.telstraclear.co.nz Localist A new way for consumers and businesses to find products and services in the local area, as well as champion their community. Launched earlier in 2011, printed guides have been distributed in five regions, as well as the website and a mobile application.

All businesses can register online and there are a range of cost-effective and locally-targeted advertising options in print, online and on mobile. It works because it’s tapping into a genuine customer to support local businesses and strengthen their community. www.localist.co.nz Quest Albany Quest Albany is a brand new property located in Albany which offers a range of executive self-contained apartments. Quest Albany provides a value for money experience with its modern and secure 4 star plus facilities which are ideal for corporate, educational and leisure travellers alike. Jim Park takes great pride in offering you a personalised service, quality accommodation and making sure you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. www.questapartments.co.nz

www.nhba.org.nz • FYI november 2011 • 5

Business and Pleasure

newcomer

NHBA WINECLUB

Save $147 per case Wine and More has put together a fantastic deal for a case of great New Zealand wines – just in time for Christmas gifts, whether they’re corporate or personal.

Local in every sense

Telecom Business Hub North Shore shifted into their new premises in August, moving even closer to their SME customers.

W

hen Telecom talked to their business customers and asked them what they wanted, it became clear that the personal touch was paramount.

They didn’t want to talk to an anonymous person on the other end of the phone, they wanted to be able to meet someone face to face and talk about what they need.

So they listened and created the Business Hub model. It’s an entirely new concept for Telecom and one that allows each “hub” much more flexibility to meet the specific needs of their local business community.

Business Manager Andy Brown says the response has been absolutely amazing.

“Almost every customer – and some of them are very small business owners that work from home – is just thrilled that someone is coming out to talk to them. And we’re not trying to do the hard sell, we really want to see what would work best for them.”

Telecom Business Hub North Shore covers customers from the Harbour Bridge up to Warkworth, so the North Harbour area was nice and central for the very mobile team of eight account managers.

The hub has its own in-house support team to answer the phones plus they do their own phone connections and provide the hardware.

Now that Telecom is also selling the iPhone 4S, Andy says they’ve had a lot of customers ringing up to get their hands on one. “It’s a big thing for us because it’s the first time we’ve been able to offer it.”

Andy says the North Shore hub is also looking to give something back to the local community, sponsoring local groups. The most recent beneficiaries are the Rosedale Pony Club and North Harbour Hockey. “We are local and we want to make a difference.”

If you want a free telecommunications health check, or to find out what Telecom can do for your business, call 0800 482 746, or email info@hubnorthshore.co.nz www.telecombusinesshub.co.nz

6 • FYI november 2011 • www.nhba.org.nz

Make sure you get your order in quickly, it’s such a good deal that they may just run out.

Your case of wine would include three of each of these varietals – saving you a total of $147 per case.

Pick & Shovel Central Otago Pinot Noir 2010 A vanilla and spicy black currant wine with wild herbs and red fruit aromatics. The palate has a silky elegant flowing mouthfeel with soft intensity and a lifted lingering finish.

RRP $30.00 NHBA Wine Club Price $20.00 Redmetal Erinview Hawkes Bay Merlot/Caberenet Franc 2007 A deeply coloured and super-ripe wine, with dark plum and liquorice characters followed by dark chocolate tannins on the finish.

Concentrated and mouth-filling with luxurious, fine-grained tannins providing structure, this will mature gracefully over 8 to 10 years RRP $40.00 NHBA Wine Club Price $33.00 Escarpment Martinborough Chardonnay 2009 These flavours are reminiscent of white stone fruit with delightful soft texture ensuring a long commanding finish.

RRP $45.00 NHBA Wine Club Price $20.00 Balancing Act Waipara Valley Pinot Gris 2010 The bouquet is delicate, with aromas of fresh pears, baked apple and quince. These flavours dominate on the palate, which has an oily texture so typical of quality Pinot Gris, soft acidity, generous body and lingering hints of tropical fruits.

RRP $22.00 NHBA Wine Club Price $15.00 Free delivery to NHBA members.

Find out more about these deals at www.nhba.org.nz/wineclub Phone Wine and More on 415 3568 or visit them at 3/49 William Pickering Drive, Albany to purchase your case. Offers are available to all NHBA members and associate members as well as their employees.

Celebrating Success

The word is out

Personalised travel services

The recession has been tough on the travel business, but North Harbour Travel worked through the pain of 2008 and are having their best year so far.

S

ometimes we all need some time out and the chance to do something completely different. For Richard Towbridge that time came after the company he was working for had been bought and sold three times during the 10 years he worked for them.

So he left and went to work with Highway Stabilisers for a couple of months instead. The phone calls started and the seed of starting his own business took root.

It was a short germination period. Driving into the Shore one day in 2006 he saw a good building, set up a business and marketing plan and two weeks later North Harbour Corporate Travel was born.

In the beginning it was just Richard and one employee, but within two years there were 12 working for the fledgling company.

“We started in the loyalty and incentive Richard Towbridge space, because that was what I knew,” Richard says. “But there was also a real opportunity for a corporate agency on to ensure the business is attracting clients the Shore.” from a variety of different areas.

Then 2008 hit. Finance companies were It was for this reason they dropped the starting to fall over, and after a holiday in word “corporate” from the company name New Caledonia, Richard took a look at the about a year ago. “We felt we were getting books and everything had just stopped. “It was really tough in 2008,” Richard says. “But in 2009 We really wanted to bring travel we had leaned out the whole business and had agents together on one site and gone through our pain, it’s been really successful.

2010 was good and now we’re having one of our best pigeon-holed too much and there was a years ever.

“It’s been tough for a lot of people, you’ve perception that we were too expensive for leisure travel,” Richard explains. The got to be different to survive. If you’re on company’s shop at Auckland Airport also a high street location and rely on walk-ins takes them into a different market. from consumers, it’s really tough.”

This year they launched iTours and Travel He says the travel agency industry has (itours.co.nz), a website that allows any been hit hard by the recession, with many travel agent to load up a tour in order to small agencies closing their doors. But it reach a wider pool of potential clients. has also led to a shift towards brokers, with “There are little agencies down the experienced agents starting to work from country who can only sell their tours within home instead. their local region because it’s too expensive Despite the fact there is less competition to get more exposure,” Richard says. “We in the area than when he started the really wanted to bring travel agents together business, Richard has continued to diversify

on one site and it’s been really successful.”

The point of difference for North Harbour Travel is their personalised service. Richard says they hire only experienced travel agents, their employees at the moment have all been in the industry for 20 years or more. “While price matters, it’s very much of a muchness in all businesses really. But having staff who know what they’re talking about makes a big difference.”

As for being based in North Harbour, Richard has always been on the Shore, in fact he remembers shooting rabbits down there when he was a child. “It was all farmland,” he says. “So it’s been weird watching it change. Seeing the infrastructure going in and what the NHBA are doing with the cameras and bringing the community together, it’s great.”

27 William Pickering Drive, Albany Ph: 448 2053 www.nhct.co.nz

www.nhba.org.nz • FYI november 2011 • 7

Transport management

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MAXX Mobile Services Mobile Site MAXX website can A mobile friendly version of the entering be accessed via your mobile by browser http://m.maxx.co.nz/ in your mobile

iPhone App free app for the MAXX Transport has released a on the Apple iPhone iPhone, which is now available App Store.

MAXX journey The app includes a version of the bus stop locator and planner, Live Departure Board, your journey. interactive maps to help you plan

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n her role as Transport Project Manager for the North Harbour Business Association, Sue Kohn-Taylor talks to many business owners in the area about transport options.

“I realised that most people were not well informed about the options available,” she says. “Nor did they have knowledge of what was happening in North Harbour with regards to transport improvements.”

Sue then initiated and developed the

concept of a Transport Resource Pack. Working in partnership with Auckland Transport, Sue has spent the past two months sourcing products and putting together resources that she believes people who own businesses, work or study in the North Harbour area will be able to use in their daily commute.

“North Harbour Business Association recognises the importance of effective and efficient transport options for our 15,000 daily commuters,” Sue says.

“We provide commuters with a voice to encourage feedback and improvements, which over time will see the increase in public transport usage, as well as a reduction in congestion.”

The key part of the new resource pack is the North Harbour Transport Guide. This

comprehensive pack and poster highlights public transport travel information, carpooling, traffic cameras, safe walking and cycling tracks, and other commuting options. It also comes in a “grab and go” transport resource wallet.

The Transport Resource Pack is free as part of your NHBA membership, contact Sue if you have yet to receive one.

Satisfaction survey In May and June of this year, NHBA members were asked to take part in a “satisfaction survey” to gain an understanding of the awareness and value of transport services in North Harbour and what the NHBA provides.

What came out of the survey was confirmation that the two key areas of concern for businesses in the North Harbour area are reducing congestion and improving access to the area.

Some of the other results are: • 69% of respondents rate the Look Before you Leave traffic cameras as valuable to highly valuable.

• 56% of respondents rate the CarpoolNow programme as valuable to highly valuable.

• 55% consider the Free Public Transport

trial to be of value. Comments were also made that more information on bus routes and timetables would be required for this to work well.

• 37% of respondents were aware of and or had used the NHBA Transport Project Manager’s services regarding transport issues.

• 17% of residents had used our Look Before You Leave traffic cameras.

• 37% had been made aware of the cameras through internal staff promotions.

Thank you to everyone who took part in this survey. NHBA is now using the results of the survey to shape and improve ongoing transport initiatives and the direction of their advocacy in key areas.

How would you like us to communicate with you?

T

he E-shot (electronic newsletter) that the North Harbour Business Association sent out about the Rugby World Cup shuttle was a huge success – over 60 phone calls were received from people asking further questions about the Transport Management plan for the event. These plans were well received and traffic around the stadium for the two weekday matches worked extremely well. In fact, it appeared that many businesses in the area managed their staff work times and traffic flowed well during the peak time.

We want to know:

Is using the E-shot the best way to communicate with you as a business owner about the Albany highway upgrade when it starts?

Email transport@nhba.org.nz with your comments and suggestions.

8 • FYI november 2011 • www.nhba.org.nz

Give yourself priority The T2 and T3 lanes and priority lanes are a great opportunity to shave some time off your commute while also helping general congestion and the planet.

To clear up any confusion, T2 and T3 lanes are specifically for vehicles carrying two or more people (T2) or three or more people (T3), including the driver.

The T stands for transit and the North Shore transit lanes operate from 6.30am-9am, and 4pm-6pm.

The priority lanes heading towards the motorway on-ramps give vehicles carrying two or more people the opportunity to bypass the ramp signals and get onto the motorway quicker.

If you don’t usually travel to work with anyone else from your family, joining CarpoolNow is a great way to recruit people who live in your neighbourhood and are going your way to fill up your car. www.CarpoolNow.co.nz

transport Management

Transport Management for 2012/2013

Look before you leave

I

n the Business Plan presented at the Annual General Meeting in early November, the North Harbour Business Association laid out four primary goals.

1. Efficient Transport Management • Provide leadership and advocacy in planning for ongoing efficiency improvements to transport infrastructure and services • Improve the day-to-day efficiency of local transport through real-time operations management such as Look Before You Leave cameras 2. Promote the use of diversified travel options • Use the Smart Transport Solution (STS) Resource Pack to communicate efficient travel information directly with commuters • Provide employers with guidance and tools so they can be partners in improving the use of diversified options for travelling to and from work. This will be done via the STS Resource Pack and one-to-one presentations • Ensure travel plans are in place at all educational institutions and partner with schools to maximise the success of these programmes 3. Increase awareness and interaction • Maintain regular communications with commuters and BID/TMA (Transport Management Area) stakeholders • Feature the services offered and TMA achievements in internal and external communications 4. Provide an effective organisational team to deliver and grow the TMA programme • Transport Committee: Comprises BID members who assist with driving operational governance on behalf of their fellow NHBA members and NHBA Executive Committee • Project management staff • Secure ongoing grants and R&D funding CarpoolNow The promotion of this scheme has increased the overall awareness of carpooling as a transport option, with many larger employers in the BID area noting that informal carpool activities have been starting since March 2011. NHBA aims to convert some of these users to the CarpoolNow scheme so they can take advantage of the NHBA’s Guaranteed Ride Home. We intend to do this through promotion and education.

You can download the full Business Plan and the Annual Report at www.nhba.org.nz

W

e’d all like to be able to look into the future and see what the road’s going to be like before we get into the car – after all, there’s nothing better than beating peak hour traffic.

That can be particularly important for entering and leaving the North Harbour Industrial Estate as there are a limited number of entry and exit points.

In recognition of the congestion this can cause, the North Harbour Business Association invested a significant amount of money in installing traffic

cameras at the six key entry and exit points, so that commuters can check real-time footage of what’s happening on the road, before they leave the house or the office.

This feature will be particularly important with the beginning of the Albany Highway upgrade in 2012.

Creating a habit of checking the road before you leave will save you time on your commute, as well as ease congestion at key points. www.nhba.org.nz www.LookBeforeYouLeave.co.nz

Parking hotspots Over the past few months a few businesses have approached the NHBA to talk about parking issues caused by larger new businesses moving into the area and the resultant extra people creating an over-demand for parking spots.

The lack of spaces then leads to “creative parking” by visitors, using methods that are often illegal and/or create problems for the businesses such as: trucks not being able to gain access for pickups or deliveries, dangerous blocking so drivers cannot get a clear view exiting driveways.

Auckland Transport is also aware that removing parking spaces from the side streets off Albany Highway while next year’s upgrade is taking place will create new parking issues in other areas.

The NHBA is working closely with local businesses and Auckland Transport to identify problem areas and mitigate the difficulties.

This is just one example of how NHBA’s local knowledge and relationships with key agencies can help institute changes that can have a real effect on the ease of doing business.

So if you have noticed any changes, have any feedback or ideas, please contact Transport Project Manager Sue Kohn-Taylor on transport@nhba.org.nz

If you want more information or you’d like our Transport Project Manager - Sue Kohn Taylor to brief you or your staff about any of these initiatives, please contact us on 968 2222, 021-950524 or email transport@nhba.org.nz

www.nhba.org.nz • FYI november 2011 • 9

Networking

The Business Breakfast with Rob Fyfe NHBA members gathered at North Harbour Stadium to hear from Air New Zealand CEO Rob Fyfe in November.

A

lbert Einstein once said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. So when you’re brought into a business at a time when morale is through the floor and it is facing challenges that have the potential to sink it, you’ve got to shake things up.

Air New Zealand CEO Rob Fyfe did just that when he joined one of New Zealand’s most recognisable brands in 2003.

It was the culture that he and his team strived to create, and continue to refine, that he shared with the NHBA members gathered at the final Business Breakfast for 2011.

He started by quoting an array of numbers far beyond anything most of the people in his audience ever have to deal with: 11,500 employees; operating costs of just over $90 million a week; a fuel bill of $1.3 billion a year; the $1 million cost of taking a 747 from Auckland to London and back, which therefore requires an average fare of $3000 to make a profit.

“We wondered how we could work these numbers differently to everyone else,”

10 • FYI november 2011 • www.nhba.org.nz

Rob explained. “But we found that we couldn’t, and even if we could have, it was unlikely to create a competitive advantage.”

Instead they started looking at what made Air New Zealand unique and found that they knew New Zealand better than any other airline flying here.

“So we decided that we wanted to serve New Zealand better than any other airline flying to, from and within New Zealand,” he said. “We wanted to bring the New Zealand personality to life within our business, be a real model for New Zealanders and New Zealand businesses.”

He admitted that creating and living such a recognisable personality as a business can be risky – as seen in Air New Zealand’s recent marketing campaigns – but said the key is having a decent exit strategy that can kick in if things go awry.

Whatever the size or the numbers, however, he emphasised a successful business is based on its people, which is why he spends 70 per cent of his day talking to employees and customers.

There’s the message he sends to all employees once a week, usually sharing stories – good and bad – that “help us know who we are”; the fact he answers the 100odd emails he gets a day, many through his Facebook page; that he personally greets and introduces every new employee (in groups) to the business; and the day he spends each month working within a specific area of the business, whether it’s as a baggage handler or a flight attendant.

The advantage is threefold – he gets to know the people who work within the business, he gets a better understanding of its different working parts and it promotes collective solutions to issues, rather than the lack of communication that seems to be characterising relations at a certain airline across the Tasman.

There’s no doubt Air New Zealand is not the company it was in 2003. It was named Air Transport World Global’s Airline of the

business breakfast Year in 2010, voted New Zealand’s most respected company in 2010 and Skytrax’s World’s Best Premium Economy Airline in 2011.

And that’s all during 18 months of extraordinary challenges. Rob estimates the Christchurch earthquakes have shaved between $35 and $50 million dollars off the bottom line, plus a similar amount due to the Japan earthquake and tsunami.

When Air New Zealand decided to continue flying under and around the ash cloud in June, it cost them $2 million extra in fuel, but also netted them an extra $12 million in revenue. Rob pointed out that it was an example of the advantage a smaller, nimbler company can enjoy when competing with the “big boys”.

When asked what he thought about the National Party’s plan to sell off part of its most valuable state assets, Rob wasn’t worried. He pointed out that National was still proposing the government keep a majority share and that being partly private has ensured Air New Zealand has operated with transparency.

“The government has a 73.8 per cent stake in Air New Zealand,” he said. “I’ve never seen a minister from the crown in our building since I started as CEO. They’re almost the ideal cornerstone shareholder.

But it’s the same whether they’re 73.8% or 51%.”

Oh, and just a tip: If you happen to be sharing a delayed flight with him and email asking him to sort out some beers, don’t be surprised if he not only does just that, but also delivers them to your seat. True story.

One of many. www.airnewzealand.co.nz

Networking

A whole school environment Kristin School was started by a small group of North Shore parents in 1973. Nondenominational and co-educational from the start, the vision was to provide students with a superior all-round education, to prepare them to be responsible world citizens, to think creatively, reason critically, communicate effectively and learn enthusiastically throughout their lives.

It’s a vision that remains firmly in place today, almost 40 years later.

Kristin is structured as three schools – junior, middle and senior – all located on the same campus.

While each school follows the Kristin philosophy, they each create

their own distinctive character relative to the age group of the students.

The differences between how each school functions have a positive impact on the students – as a child moves through the schools, they encounter different ways of working, allowing them to consider the world, themselves and their peers in a variety of ways.

This encourages the students to be inquisitive, show initiative and cope well with change.

The school’s motto is “Progress with vision, integrity and love”. www.kristin.school.nz Kristin School sponsored the Business Breakfast with Rob Fyfe.

A message from the principal I am considering offering a reward for the return of my childhood. It’s been more than three decades since I carelessly discarded it because I had more pressing things to attend to, but now I want it back. And let’s be clear – it’s my childhood I want back, not somebody else’s. I know all that stuff about youth being wasted on the young, but frankly, today’s children aren’t getting much of a chance to waste their youth. Little by little, it’s being taken from them. Eroded before they are finished with it.

What I want back is the childhood that I took for granted. I want to roll in the long grass, not mow it. I want to eat spoonfuls of Milo straight from the packet, not wince as I sip the bitter benefits of green tea. I want to stretch in the morning because my muscles are calling out for the joy of it, not because they now cry out if I don’t. I want to buy two-for-a-cent lollies again, rather than broccoli and $5 tomatoes. I want my old priorities back.

“Come home when it gets dark,” was my Mother’s most punctual command. When we were kids, time was unconstrained in a way I can barely

imagine now. Days seemed elastic, boundless, no more of a finite commodity than air or water. Now, we spend them pondering the history of emails. As a kid, I was a master at stalling the onset of going to bed. Nowadays, I scheme about how to get into it sooner. It all seems irretrievable now. I can’t even moan enviously about today’s children squandering their childhood – they seem as busy as we do.

Jane Goodall meets Kristin School students.

2011 Graduation Walk.

Does anyone build tree huts anymore?

Or aimlessly roam the neighbourhood on their bikes? Are we role-modelling busyness as a norm? As parents, we are encouraged to give our children “quality time”. But these days, it seems that any scrap of uncommitted time has high quality. It has become a scarce and precious resource.

When did we get so busy? No doubt there’s more on offer for our children than there was for us. Do we therefore feel an urgency to cram more into each of their days in order to make the most of those opportunities?

It’s not that I dislike my own busyness.

I love my job and wouldn’t swap it for anything. And it is certainly true that working with young people helps keep you young. I don’t really want to be a less-busy adult or a child again. But I do wish that I had savoured more being young and unencumbered. At the time, childhood seemed endless and I was in a hurry to escape it. How I wish that I had realised then how bountiful free time was. It leaves me all the more determined to tell our young people that, sometimes, doing nothing is the most important task they face in a day.

Peter Clague Executive Principal Kristin School

www.nhba.org.nz • FYI november 2011 • 11

Networking

The Business Breakfast with Dr Lester Levy

To achieve a successful event you need two things – a speaker who is charismatic and who knows what they’re talking about. Dr Lester Levy ticked both those boxes.

T

he divide between “manager” and Roger Yibo Wang, Dr Lester Levy, and Warren Kitchin “leader” has long been a source of debate, with the majority of importance placed on leader over manager.

Not so, according to Dr Lester Levy.

“You can’t be a leader without management capabilities,” he says. “You need to have both of them – the mind of a manager, but the soul of a leader. The difference is that management is a jacket you take off at the end of the day, while leadership is a skin.”

And just like management skills, he says leadership is not necessarily an innate quality. Instead it requires four state-like qualities – integrity, confidence, optimism and resilience – all of which can be learned.

And leadership skills are nothing without authenticity.

“It requires you to know what you believe in and what your values are,” he says. “It requires a consistent and transparent link between what you say your values are and what they actually are.”

Zealanders had these qualities, while six out For instance, he points out that integrity of 10 had incredibly low levels of them. comes from the word “integer”, which, The difference is that when a manager if you delve back into your high school has those state-like qualities then they maths, is also a whole number. “Integrity inspire high levels in the people around is knowing the difference between right them. People who and wrong and acting work under someone on what is right, who displays low irrespective of the risk You need to have the levels of these to yourself. If you lose mind of a manager but characteristics have a little bit of integrity, similarly low levels you lose the lot.” the soul of a leader. themselves.

According to a So how do you study Dr Levy did on really know whether you’re part of the 1000 New Zealanders, we tend to think four out of 10 who do, or the six out of 10 we’re a lot better at it than we are. “It’s who don’t? The best place to start is with important to match your perception of your peers. “The softest person on yourself yourself with other people’s perceptions of you.” The study showed that four in 10 New is you,” Dr Levy said. “The next softest is

business breakfast

Assembled guests at the Business Breakfast.

12 • FYI november 2011 • www.nhba.org.nz

your direct manager. The least soft are your peers. Start with the feather and work up to the bricks.”

And while you’re at it, make sure you’re part of a dialogue rather than a monologue.

“Communication is the oxygen of leadership,” Dr Levy explains. “Ninety-five per cent of what we do is monologue, rather than dialogue. It’s up to the person who has the authority to bring others into the conversation. For active listening you need respect, empathy and a voice.”

Dr Lester Levy is the Chief Executive of Excelerator at the University of Auckland Business School and a fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Management. He is frequently invited to speak on the subject of leadership in New Zealand and overseas.

Networking

Keeping the cash flowing

With technology changing so fast, it now offers businesses more ways than ever to take payments quickly, securely and efficiently, thereby keeping costs down and improving their customer services.

Flo2Cash is leading the charge.

C

ashflow is the lifeblood of every business. And while you can’t control your customer’s bank balance, you can make sure it’s easy for them to pay you so you get your money faster. The fact that more than half of New Zealand businesses are delinquent in their payments shows just how important managing the payments side of the business is.

This is where Flo2Cash comes in. They are a leading provider of payment processing services and solutions, enabling businesses of all sizes to streamline and customise their payment processes, as well as incorporate the latest technologies.

Established in 2003, Flo2Cash is 100 per cent New Zealand owned and is the only payment processing provider in New Zealand able to offer both credit card and bank account (direct debit) processing solutions, meaning they can mix and match to suit each business’ needs.

Their system is built on the Paymark platform

ensuring it provides the highest levels of reliability and availability in New Zealand. Plus the fact they utilise Saas (software as a service) and cloud computing means they can reduce a business’ capital and operating expenditure while providing a high level of support and availability. Everything you need to know about your account is accessible via the internet securely, immediately and from anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Flo2Cash’s services allow customers to pay securely and easily via the web and the phone, and now users can also turn their phone into a type of mobile eftpos machine through their iPhone and Android application.

The service allows you to accept real-time payments on the spot, via your phone for less than the cost of a mobile eftpos terminal. GPS tracking can supply you with the locations of all payments taken, an email receipt can be automatically sent

Golf day sponsorship opportunities

to the customer and an automatic daily fund settlement goes into your designated bank account.

In the eight years since the business started, Flo2Cash has developed an enviable client list, working with some of the biggest institutions and companies in New Zealand. In fact, if you were unlucky enough to have to pay a parking fine online lately, you’ll have noticed your receipt was provided by Flo2Cash.

The company and all of its products comply with level one PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard).

This means that they meet the most stringent security standards and are kept up to date at all times.

Flo2Cash sponsored the September Business Breakfast with Dr Lester Levy.

NHBA’s inaugural golf day is the perfect chance to celebrate the end of 2011 – and the approaching 2012 – at the same time as you build new business connections.

There are two levels of sponsorship available and places are limited.

C2, 27-29 William Pickering Drive, Albany 0800 356 222 www.flo2cash.co.nz

Contact event organisers Brent MackwayJones on 415 6800 or Janine Brinsdon on 968 2222 for more information.

Or visit www.nhba.org.nz/golfday

Gold – only two spots available • Put up to three pull up banners inside the North Shore Golf Club, plus provide brochures and samples that will be displayed throughout the day, at the Golf Day Prizegiving and during NHBA’s end of year function, taking place from 5pm.

• Cost: $1200 + GST This includes the entry fee for four players.

Additional players will be charged at $140 + GST each.

Silver – limited availability • Tee sponsorship allows you to provide one tee sign (around 45cm2). Tee-side banners are also permitted, however, please bear in mind that these will have to be anchored due to wind. Banners must not obstruct access to the tee.

• Cost option one: $480 + GST This includes entry fee for two players.

• Cost option two: $710 + GST This includes entry fee for four players.

• In addition all sponsors receive promotion on the www.nhba.org.nz/ golfday page throughout December, recognition in the e-book version of FYI magazine in December and recognition in the physical version of FYI magazine distributed at the end of January 2012

www.nhba.org.nz • FYI november 2011 • 13

crime prevention

Crime Prevention Programme for the future I

n the recently presented Business Plan for the 2012/2013 years, the North Harbour Business Association put forward their plans for their Crime Prevention Programme.

The Association will continue their proactive approach, focusing on education via the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Surveys, the Tool Kit initiative and business seminars in support of existing relationships.

NHBA continues to develop additional Crime Prevention products and services that educate and assist members in addressing personnel safety, strengthening visible Crime Prevention signage, and improving the process around criminal activity reporting.

The Crime Prevention Tool Kit A core component of the “Crime is not OK” programme, the Crime Prevention Tool Kit was launched earlier this year in front of about 60 NHBA members, Auckland Council members, dignitaries, media and representatives of the New Zealand Police.

Auckland Mayor Len Brown and Waitemata District Commander Superintendant Bill Searle praised the move to provide members with a tangible resource. It contains key messages from the NZ Police and Ministry of Justice in support of practical tools such as a DNA Forensic Property Marking kit, and products to improve staff safety, target hardening and business crime prevention systems.

The Crime Prevention Tool Kit will be delivered free to all commercially zoned properties in the BID area before the end of Quarter 4, 2011.

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To organise a free security audit, a Crime Prevention Tool Kit or for advice about crime prevention, call 968 2222 or email crimeprevention@nhba.org.nz

14 • FYI november 2011 • www.nhba.org.nz

Len Brown and Warren Kitchin

A selection of Crime Prevention Tool Kit products.

Warren Kitchin, Brent Mackway-Jones, Len Brown, Superintendant Bill Searle, Inspector Les Paterson, David Wright

crime prevention

CRIME ALERT All NHBA members are advised that Police have notified the NHBA Crime Prevention Specialist that criminals are actively stealing Toyota Hi Ace vans throughout the North Shore area. Criminals are even moving other vehicles out of the way to get to them.

These vehicles are either subsequently used to commit further crime or are shipped overseas.

All businesses are advised to take appropriate steps to secure such vehicles and report any suspicious activity direct to Police on 111 or for non urgent matters to Police on 09 477 5000.

All follow up enquiries please to NHBA on 09 968 2222.

Keep an eye out for NHBA email alerts about reported incidents.

Praise for NHBA Crime Prevention programme

The North Harbour Business Association Business Improvement District enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in the country, which is a result of effective crime prevention. All members can benefit from the services offered under the NHBA’s Crime Prevention programme, which is co-funded by the Ministry of Justice. In fact, many already have, and they have given us some great feedback.

While David Wright has moved on from the team, he presided over the recent launch of the Crime Prevention Tool Kit which continues to be distributed to businesses in the area. Here is just a taste of the positive feedback NHBA has so far received.

Hi, Thank you for your visit on Friday.

The kit you have is amazing and a really good product for all business owners. Please pass on our thanks to all those concerned.

Also thank you for delivering.

Cheers Sandra Sweetman (Easiyo) Hi, Can I just say how very much impressed both me and my staff were with your Crime Prevention tool kit.

It is great to see how you have put so much thought and effort into producing such a relevant and useful product which will undoubtedly benefit all members of the organisation both at work and home.

Brenden Rolston (Actionmail) Hello, Thanks for calling in today and for the resource tool kit – we are now registered and truly appreciate your time and advice.

Have a great week Kind regards Sue & Stuart (Essential Brands Group NZ Ltd)

Hi, Congratulations on launching the Crime Prevention Tool kits to so many local businesses. Your effort and ongoing support of the local community is a huge credit to you.

I trust you can now relax just a little bit and enjoy some of the world cup festivities over the next few weeks before you launch into your next project.

Again, thanks for allowing us to be involved and I wish you all the very best.

Kind regards Erin Adkins (Printing.com) Get your own Crime Prevention Tool Kit This invaluable resource is a direct benefit of your NHBA membership. It includes a tailored collection of crime prevention information, advice and resources, as well as a DNA forensic property marking kit.

The first step is to organise a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design survey by contacting NHBA on 968 2222 or at crimeprevention@nhba.org.nz

Positive action: Vehicle Crime in NHBA area.

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arly in September there was an incident in the NHBA area where three motor vehicles were literally broken into in broad daylight at midday in a busy trading area in full view of members of the public.

Witnesses took positive action by calling the Police on 111. They were able to give good descriptions of the offenders, details of the offending vehicle including the registrations and details of the vehicles attacked as well as providing Police with commentary that included the direction of travel. All of this information resulted in Police stopping the offending vehicle and apprehending all three occupants, who were subsequently charged with theft.

Follow-up actions by Police and NHBA secured further evidence and ensured property stolen was returned to the victims.

This is a good example of a community taking positive action sending a clear and unequivocal message to criminals that we a proactive and alert community in terms of crime prevention.

REMEMBER the incident reporting process • Always report any emergency or suspicious persons or vehicles to the New Zealand Police on 111 • For non emergency Police calls: (09) 477 5000 (24-hour) • Please also contact the NHBA’s Crime Prevention Specialist either by phone (968 2222), crimeprevention@nhba. org.nz or via the website to let us know what happened. We’ll acknowledge all communications and report to the relevant agencies.

• Please tell us: • Your name, company name and contact details • Description and timing of the incident you want reported • Description of the people/vehicles involved

www.nhba.org.nz • FYI november 2011 • 15

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Quality and service

More than a round of golf Today it’s a 27-hole golf course on the fringes of the Waitemata Harbour, but 80 years ago it was a very different story.

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he North Shore Golf Club was established in 1931 by its founding members on what was farmland in what is now known as the Thomas Park Municipal Course in Takapuna.

When the Auckland Harbour Bridge opened in 1959 and land development on the North Shore began to explode, the Government sought land for a new Northern Motorway and a Civic Centre. The North Shore Golf Club sat right in the middle of their plans and when the motorway went ahead, the club was faced with an uncertain future.

Members then took the bold decision to develop a new course at Albany. Since then the courses have been part of an ongoing programme of development and enhancement that has resulted in an excellent layout of 27 holes.

While it’s not long by international standards, the course requires clever shotmaking and an appreciation for the subtleties of accurate golf.

Comprehensive drainage means wet winters don’t cause problems, while the fairway watering system has extended the ideal playing conditions beyond the traditional spring and autumn periods.

Catering is an integral part of the service and facilities provided by the North Shore Golf Club – whether it’s for members, casual users of the facilities or those looking for an event venue. Many North Harbour Business Association members have already experienced the quality of the clubhouse and its catering at one of several Business Breakfast events in 2011.

The homemade steak and wine pies are favourites with golfers, as is the wide range of cakes and slices.

North Shore Golf Club 51 Appleby Road Phone 415 9924 www.nsgc.co.nz

It was a case of twobecome-one for Trade Colour Print’s two directors when they combined their businesses to create a stronger company based around their extensive industry experience.

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ohn Mahoney is looking forward to getting some sun this summer – in the company’s new space. The company moved into 8 Piermark Drive a couple of months ago and now that they’re on the opposite side of the road, they get a bit of sun in the building.

TCP are technically off-set printers but also do digital. No job is too small – they take on anything from brochure to catalogues and business cards – but they specialise in sign printing.

John and business partner Kevin Brown started the company about four years ago, combining their two businesses. Each has almost 25 years in the printing industry and he says it’s handy having two people running the business – when one is off site, there is someone else who knows the business just as well.

The pair both live on the Shore already, so setting up in North Harbour was a simple choice. “It’s central for both of us and Albany has a lot going for it,” John says. “There’s been a lot of growth around Apollo Drive area and you wouldn’t really want to go into town every day.”

He says that the company is holding its own in the tough economic times. “Some months are better than others, but we’ve got a couple of things on the boil.”

They’re looking at hiring a second fulltime sales rep and considering merging with another business.

“Our level of service and the high quality of our work are our main points of difference,” John points out.

Trade Colour Print Ltd Unit H, 8 Piermark Drive, Albany NEW PHONE NUMBER 448 5820 tradecolour@orcon.net.nz

trade colour print

Contact us PO Box 303 126, North Harbour 0751 I Mobile: 021 212 4942 I Phone: (09) 968 2222 Email: gm@nhba.org.nz I Web: www.nhba.org.nz