Nearly 12,000 people a year use the Waikato-Bay of Plenty Cancer Society’s services. Senior writer Mary Anne Gill finds out why the society needs support from businesses.
Paint Kirikiriroa, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and King Country yellow on August 30.
That was one of several challenges made to Waikato Chamber of Commerce members at their latest Business After Four event held at Waikato-Bay of Plenty Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge.
Cancer Society chief executive Helen Carter said the annual Daffodil Day appeal raised $750,000 every year and was its biggest fundraiser.
Last week a vintage tea party at Zealong Tea Estate raised funds for the society.
The society must find $6 million annually to keep its services going and relies in a large part on people who leave money to the society in their wills.
“It’s not a great business model,” said society chair Matt White.
The society is not directly government funded and is the largest private funder of cancer research in the country.
Volunteers are needed for Daffodil Day across the region – which takes in King Country, Waikato and Bay of Plenty – at 300 street collection sites.
Some of the money is used to run the Lions Lodge in Hamilton which opened
in 2011 and before that was the old Braemar Hospital site.
“It’s like a cruise ship. We do everything here except fight the cancer,” said Carter.
“It is a home away from home.”
People receiving cancer treatment at Waikato Hospital may be eligible for free accommodation at the lodge.
Carter appealed to chamber members to volunteer to pick daffodils, rattle buckets and put donation boxes on their counters.
Later this month, volunteers are needed to pick daffodils donated by Miller Daffodils in Pirongia.
The response was immediate with chamber members making donations on the spot.
“Let’s raise awareness,” she said. “Have the cancer conversation in the workplace.”
New Zealand is at the top end of cancer rates among Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries with a notable increase of people under 50.
More than 25,000 people are diagnosed every year with breast cancer the most common in women and prostate in men.
Waikato Chamber of Commerce members listen attentively as some of the cancer statistics are revealed.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
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Million dollar questions
By Mary Anne Gill
Three high-profile Waikato initiatives which require funding by ratepayers and taxpayers would fail to get much support from Chamber of Commerce members.
The Waikato chamber held a poll on its social media channels last month asking what one project members would spend $2.2 million in accumulated reserves on.
Forty three percent of the 248 voters opted for Do nothing, Reduce rates.
A quarter said put the money into Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari wildlife island reserve while 26 per cent wanted the Te Huia train to Auckland complete the last two years of its trial.
Only six per cent wanted the cash to reawaken Te Waka, Waikato’s regional economic development agency.
Chamber chief executive Don Good said the result surprised him.
“The lack of support for Te Waka will give Waikato Regional Council food for thought and ensure the debate over the council’s involvement in the old economic development model is robust,” he said.
The regional council is trying to find out what tangible economic development looks like.
With the closure of Te Waka, other Waikato councils have strengthened their own economic development staff levels saying the got no benefit from the agency.
“A lot of what people call economic development seems to be reports, working groups along with connections to political parties and Wellington bureaucracy, but does it result in a tangible return on the ratepayers investment?”
Yellow day ahead
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
About 9500 die with cancer each year, with the most deaths related to lung, colorectal, breast and prostate cancers.
In the 12 months to April, Waikato-Bay of Plenty Cancer Society had 11,525 client contacts and offered support to 2556 new community clients.
Heather Connolly, the society’s new Head of Philanthropy, said the numbers had grown by 154 per cent.
A total of 16,025 nights’ accommodation was provided at the lodge and 40,059 meals served. The menu is on a six-week roster.
Volunteers donated 9670 hours and drove 113,950 kilometres while the society donated $211,250 for local and national cancer research.
The free services also include getting patients from home to the hospital, caring for people in the community by offering
personalised support – such as translating medical jargon, counselling and advocacy – and holding group support coffee chats, walking groups or social connection.
“Cancer currently affects one in three New Zealanders and modelling shows that cancer rates will double by 2040,” said Connolly.
“There’s a lot of uncertainty and for some there is fear.
“Being able to lean on one of our nurses for guidance and support can help relieve some of that stress.
“By taking someone to their treatment or giving them the lodge to stay at in Hamilton, we can alleviate some of the financial burden, giving them time to focus on their healing,” said Connolly.
• See Out and About, pages 18-19
• More photos waikatobusinessnews.nz
Editor dies
Former Waikato Business News editor Mike Blake, 77, has died. He began his journalism career at the Waikato Times and moved through the ranks to edit newspapers and magazines in New Zealand and had stints on The Fiji Times and Fiji Sun.
On his return to Hamilton in the early 2000s he became editor of Waikato Business News.
He spent more than 10 years on the Waikato Chamber of Commerce board, about five of those as president of the organisation and was rewarded with life membership for his commitment when he retired.
Mike Blake
Don Good
Cancer Society chief executive Helen Carter calls on businesses to help on Daffodil Day. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
Lego show
Waikato lego enthusiasts will fill an exhibition hall at Claudelands Showgrounds in Hamilton this month. The show has been hosted by Hamilton Lego User Group since 2016 and this year’s August 9-10 event will be the biggest yet with 78 exhibitors coming from all over the North Island. It includes a Star Wars 25th Anniversary display, trains, architecture and My Own creations.
Dam upgrade
Mercury has commissioned the second of three new power generators at the Karāpiro Power Station. A new water intake gate was installed last month into the top of the dam involving three cranes and other heavy machinery to lift the 40 tonne gate into its guide rails and lower into the dam. Testing of the new generator should be completed this month and work on the third generator will start in October and be complete by August next year.
Speakers
Waikato-based Learning Matters is bringing literacy experts to New Zealand to share their knowledge about the elements and implementation of structured literacy in schools with teachers literacy specialists, researchers, Education ministry employees, politicians, and parents. Learning Matters founder Carla McNeil said structured literacy was an evidence-based method of teaching children to read. The symposia is being held in Wellington on August 20 and Auckland on August 22.
Charter school
A Waipā couple are hoping to set up one of 15 charter schools the coalition government approved in this year’s Budget. Ray and Maxine Nelson - founders and directors of Ignite Arts Academy in Cambridgeare working with education consultant and former principal Alwyn Poole on an application due August 9. If successful, the charter school would open in term one next year.
An intelligent move
By Chris Gardner
Artificial Intelligence services are helping Waikato businesses stay competitive while improving efficiency.
“My advice to all businesses, large and small, is to not wait,” said Houston Technology Group founder Alan Chew.
“The benefits of AI are immense and within reach. If you don’t act, your competitors will.”
Chew has run free generative AI workshops for not-for-profit groups in the region.
“The jaw dropping moments at such workshops are a wonder to watch.”
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Chew directed Houston Technology Group, based in Hamilton, to fasttrack the roll out of AI solutions to medical clients.
The company built IntelliMed EzyScan to scan clinical records, summarise them and file the docu ment in the appropriate place.
“In the four years that this technology has been deployed at clinics from Northland to Queenstown, it has managed to achieve accuracy of higher than 99 per cent and labour savings of a massive 63 per cent,” Chew said.
Chew’s company is also about to release VoiceSmart, an AI powered robot that answers the phone, makes appointments with GPs, orders repeat prescription and takes messages.
“VoiceSmart incorporates advanced security features to ensure caller identity verification,” Chew said.
Enlighten Designs chief executive Damon Kelly founded his design and technology company 25 years ago and has worked with AI since his University of Waikato days. He sees AI as both a threat and an
opportunity.
“It’s both, if you don’t adapt to it, it’s a threat for sure, if you adapt to it then it’s an opportunity,” Kelly said.
Kelly shared a long list of what he called cool AI projects.
“We’ve developed awesome voiceto-text and text-to-voice technologies using large language models,” he said.
Enlighten Designs’ Synthetic Voice is used by multiple media clients.
“Synthetic Voice is making virtual voices that sound like humans or clone human voices, machine vision is being able to have computers recognise photos and videos and being able to categories it,” he said.
Enlighten Designs also uses machine learning to turn qualitive survey results into quantitative reports.
“We’ve turned messy survey data into clear, actionable insights that help businesses make smarter decisions,” Kelly said.
Partnering with Microsoft, Enlighten Designs has built tools that allow journalists to dig through massive datasets and uncover compelling stories.
Overseas, Enlighten Designs tech is being used for real-time monitoring of police scanners to map out key events.
Cambridge based Rocketspark spent six years developing its AI-powered website builder Flint.
In 10 minutes, Flint can build a website home page based on the input business name, industry, location and vibe. Web designers can choose from 32 Rocketspark templates or build their own.
Rocketspark began its AI journey in 2018. Johnson said it had to invest in AI to stay relevant.
Boutique communication, public relations and marketing consultancy Belle in Cambridge recently added Microsoft Copilot AI to its toolbox.
Belle director Charlotte FitzPatrick, who started the company in 2021, has been using AI writing assistant Grammarly for years to improve productivity.
“We’ve been trying to embrace AI, recently adding Copilot to our mix of AI tools, and we’re excited about its potential to help improve our processes and workflow management. Many repeatable tasks and processes can be optimised with AI.”
FitzPatrick and her team use Copilot to take notes, summarise large documents, and check spelling, grammar and tone.
“Ultimately, these tools enable our team to focus on our clients, their needs and goals, and the strategies to enhance their businesses.”
But AI can only ever help FitzPatrick’s team of creatives. It could never replace them.
“From a public relations and communications perspective, AI can help us work faster, better and be more informed, but brands, businesses and organisations need to consider authenticity,” she said.
“We’re in the business of influence, credibility and trust, whether it’s to engage communities and stakeholders, educate customers, increase product sales,
shape reputation, impact policy, or manage a crisis, and audiences will call you out if they sense you’re not being authentic or truthful in your messaging.
"While AI is a useful tool, particularly to help write wellstructured sentences and paragraphs, great communication that is relevant, informative and resonates with the audience will always need a human touch.”
Fitzpatrick is also concerned with how AI could be misused for the spread of fake news such as manipulated images, videos, and audio.
“Ultimately, fake news directly affects trust, reputation and credibility. We’re already seeing our industry shifting toward using better listening and analytics tools to detect fake news so that we can counter it with factual information.”
Those who use AI tools can spot their misuse, usually by people who are not necessarily used to crafting written content for publication in print or delivery as a speech.
“You can’t beat a human touch,” Fitzpatrick concluded.
“We want to engage audiences with genuine, relatable stories, and that requires good old-fashioned conversations with real people.”
Alan Chew says the benefits of AI are immense.
Damon Kelly
Belle founder Charlotte FitzPatrick, right, and senior account manager Claire Hooton, use AI cautiously.
Cancer patient says “We’re all rowing this waka together”
Thomas Witana was not expecting a cancer diagnosis.
The security worker from Gisborne had been having regular checkups at his local medical centre when unusual blood pressure readings prompted his doctor to ask for more tests.
“They called us in and let us know we had prostate cancer. We were shellshocked,” says Thomas.
Thomas’ doctor advised that the best course of treatment would be hormonal injections to the stomach followed by weeks-long radiation at Waikato Hospital. With long travel times between Gisborne and Hamilton ahead, Thomas regrettably resigned from his job.
“We needed to focus on oneself. At the same time, my mate and kids were a bit upset.”
When it came time for radiation, Thomas, alongside his “mate” Jeneva, flew to Hamilton via Wellington and went straight to Waikato Hospital. They were advised to stay at the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge.
“I was a little mixed up in my head,” admits Jeneva, “just thinking – where are we going to get the money from?
Money came to my head because you know, you’ve got to pay for these things, things don’t come free … and I was worried for my mate.”
But stepping through the Lodge doors, Jeneva felt a weight lift from her shoulders.
“This place reflects to me like a peace lily. It’s calm, it’s peaceful. Everybody was just so at peace, no one was stressing. And when you see people in here, you think, oh, they’ve got cancer too. Normal people, just like us. We’re all rowing this waka together.”
Thomas and Jeneva say they would have struggled to access cancer treatment without having the Lodge to stay at in Hamilton. They, just like the hundreds of other patients who have passed through Lodge doors this year, were able to stay at the Lodge for free thanks to community support. The Lodge is not directly government-funded and relies on donations. You can help the Lodge continue providing essential accommodation for cancer patients by making a donation this Daffodil Day: www.daffodilday.org.nz
TOURISM Our big win
By NICOLA GREENWELL
Hamilton City Council’s decision to maintain its current funding for Waikato’s regional tourism organisation is a massive win for the businesses, workers and local communities who benefit from the visitor economy.
The council draft Long-Term Plan for 2024-34 originally budgeted a 50 per cent reduction to our funding, removing $357,945 from our budget.
A large number of submissions from many groups, businesses and individuals across Hamilton were made on behalf of Hamilton & Waikato Tourism, encouraging elected members to reconsider their decision.
We were pleased to see Hamilton City Council kept an open mind, listened to the submissions and saw the benefit a strong regional tourism organisation and the visitor sector brings to the region.
Tourism directly employs more than 12,000 people across Waikato and provides $1.9 billion to our region’s GDP through visitor spending – it’s a big part of our local economy.
The council’s ongoing funding means we can continue our mahi to increase the contribution leisure and business travel brings to our region and continue to build the capability of our local tourism industry.
We are also cautious: while we celebrate Hamilton City Council’s decision, we are concerned over the reduced funding levels
OUR ENVIRONMENT
from the rest of our partner councils.
Hamilton & Waikato Tourism is funded by a public/private partnership, with the bulk of our funding usually coming from six supporting Waikato councils – Hamilton City Council, Waikato District Council, Waipā District Council, Matamata-Piako District Council, Waitomo District Council and Ōtorohanga District Council.
The whole region benefits from tourism through the jobs it creates; the culture it enriches; and the vibrancy it brings through support for events, cafes, restaurants, hospitality venues and local stores.
We continue to explore the implications of funding reductions from the other councils we partner with. The overall impact of funding decisions by the other councils who partner with Hamilton & Waikato Tourism results in an 18 per cent reduction in funding.
As it stands Hamilton and Waikato Tourism ranks 28th out of 31 New Zealand tourism organisations when it comes to the amount of funding we receive per resident. What the team and our local industry achieves on a limited budget is exceptional, but money only stretches so far.
We will continue to explore new ways of working as a result of the change in funding levels.
• Nicola Greenwell is Chief Executive, Hamilton and Waikato Tourism
Building project advice
By PHIL MACKAY
As we begin to hear more noise about interest rate cuts, many people who have been considering a building project are preparing to start the process. If you are amongst this group, you may find these tips and advice useful.
Make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. A building project should enhance your lifestyle or enable business growth or productivity.
Something we hear a lot in the residential market in particular are preconceived ideas of what is important for resale value.
It’s very unlikely that you will realise the value of a new build or renovation project if you sell within five years.
Therefore, the project makes sense only if the goal is to enhance your lifestyle, with a view to enjoying the benefits yourself for 5-10 years or longer.
Hire experts - this should be obvious, but engaging registered professionals to work on your behalf will improve the experience and outcomes.
Have a clear brief and budget. The more clarity you have at the outset, the more likely you will achieve them. In particular, it’s important that all of the decision makers have had input to the brief.
Take time to understand the process. A good architect should explain this to you but the more you can educate yourself the better.
Meet prospective architects, ask lots of questions, and take advantage of free guides on architects’ websites (ours included).
Expect challenges. You’ve no doubt heard
stories from friends of projects that run over time and over budget. Once again, good architects and contractors can help, but don’t assume that yours will be the one mythical project in which everything goes perfectly.
Include a contingency in your budget, expect challenges, and plan for contingency. A good starting point could be 10 per cent of your budget, so if your target budget is $1 million, make sure that you can finance $1.1 million. Also consider obtaining a cost estimate at an early stage in the design process.
Be willing to compromise. Most projects require some degree of compromise, often between the brief and the budget, or between different decision makers.
Rather than being surprised, be prepared for this. Clarity on your brief and budget will help greatly, as well as giving some advance thought to your priorities.
For example, there may be some elements that are nice-to-have rather than essential, or the project could be staged as budget allows.
Try to enjoy it! For many people a building project is a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence, so don’t forget to have some fun along the way. Build strong relationships with your Architect and contractor. Listen to and trust the professionals you engage, it’s their job to lead you through the process in a way that creates the best outcome.
• Phil Mackay is Business Development Manager for Paua Architects
Jeneva and Thomas Witana
Rewi Alley’s legacy celebrated
By Mary Anne Gill
When Dunhua Lu heard there was to be an exhibition of Rewi Alley photos and sculptures in the Cambridge Town Hall, he got on the first plane out of China to come to it.
The invitation from Alley’s foster son - Chinese painter Deng Bangzhen - and his wife Lu Bo, a sculptor, was all he needed to honour the New Zealand writer who is revered in China.
Lu, who is general manager and chief engineer of PetroChina Chemical Cleaning Co, told members of the New Zealand China Friendship Society’s Hamilton branch at the exhibition’s opening that his father and Alley were great friends.
Attending the exhibition in Cambridge was an important way to acknowledge the relationship between New Zealand and China.
Earlier Waipā deputy mayor Liz Stolwyk opened the two-day exhibition which featured photos, paintings and sculptures chronicling Alley’s life in New Zealand and China.
Bangzhen, his sister and two brothers were orphans when in 1951 they became part of the Alley family in Beijing. He and his wife have gone on to become significant contributors of Chinese culture and art in New Zealand.
They created sculptures to commemorate Alley in Christchurch – where the political activist was born in 1897 – and in Auckland’s Albert Park.
They travel regularly between China and New Zealand to participate in exhibitions and friendly exchanges.
Some of their work was on display in the Town Hall at the exhibition. Guests included members of the New Zealand China Friendship Society and its national president Chris Lipscombe, the New Zealand Rewi Alley Friendship memorial committee and staff from the Chinese embassy and consulate.
Stolwyk said it was an honour to have Bangzhen and Bo in Cambridge.
“I am very moved by the love I can clearly see that you have for Rewi Alley, a remarkable New Zealander who could see a need in China and
played such a pivotal role.
“It is incredible that a man from the small town of Springfield in Canterbury played such a fundamental part at that time in China thousands of miles away from his hometown in New Zealand,” she said.
“The photographs on display here portray his work beautifully and I have learnt so much more about him.”
Alley played such an incredible role over his six decades in China to establish greater friendship, understanding and goodwill between the two countries, she said.
Rewi Alley was named after Rewi Manga Maniapoto, a Ngāti Maniapoto chief who led Kīngitanga forces during the New Zealand government invasion of Waikato during the New Zealand Wars.
For 60 years Alley dedicated himself to the cause of the Chinese Communist Party and weeks before his death in 1987 then Prime Minister David Lange eulogised about him. A copy of the speech was on display at the exhibition.
Copies of Bangzhen Deng’s book honouring his foster father were presented to exhibition attendees.
Rebecca Baldwin has been appointed Finance and Business executive lead at disability organisation Enrich Group. Baldwin graduated from Waikato University with a Bachelor of Management Studies in accounting and is a chartered accountant. Prior to joining Enrich – which provides services in Waikato, King Country and Bay of Plenty – Baldwin was on contract as finance manager for Northern Districts Cricket Association.
Top award
Narellan Pools’ Jacque Patterson, who has the company franchise from south Auckland to Taupō, has been named the company’s businesswoman of the year.
Cambridge Move
Waikato-King Country Idea Services – part of the IHC Group of Charities - has moved from Hamilton back to Cambridge after 20 years in the city. Idea Services supports adults of all ages with intellectual disabilities to live independently and be part of their local communities. This includes residential care, supported living and vocational support. They have four residential homes in Cambridge, two in Te Awamutu, three in Te Kūiti and Ōtorohanga and three in Taumarunui as well as a rural block in Ōhaupō for people with high and complex needs.
Two Golden Rules of Investing
Get ahead of the game
CWhantal Baxter and Stuart Anderson are Investment Advisers with Craigs Investment Partners. They share two golden investment rules and their view on the role of a good financial adviser.
hilst we live in an evolving world, there are some things that stand the test of time. This is true for sound investing principles and strategies. Regardless of market conditions, these approaches have served investors for generations.
1. Diversify, diversify, diversify:
Change is the only constant in life. As a result of changes in your personal situation and challenges faced, the needs and reliance on your money will evolve over time. Life doesn’t move in a straight line, so it pays to have sound financial objectives and a good financial adviser to help you move towards your end goal. When investing we believe there are two important rules to always keep in mind. Following these should set you up well to succeed.
1. Any good adviser will advise you to diversify.
This is one of the easiest things you can do, but the benefits can be significant. As Investment Adviser Chantal Baxter at Craigs Investment Partners explains, “no one knows for sure what will happen in the future and how markets will react to changes or announcements, so having a diversified portfolio, made up of different assets including shares from different sectors and geographic markets, lowers your overall risk and improves the likelihood you’ll be a successful investor. Plus, you’ll be able to sleep soundly at night knowing negative performance in one area of your portfolio can be balanced by positive performance in your other portfolio investments.”
2. Invest in quality:
A fundamental rule of investing is not putting all your eggs in one basket. It’s the simplest yet most effective way to insulate against risk and help investors weather any storms. This means looking at all your investment assets and your exposure to risk in each of them. Diversification could mean looking at a combination of cash, bonds, equities as well as listed and unlisted funds, to get the right blend of assets for each investor’s portfolio, says Craigs Investment Adviser Chantal Baxter.
Investing in quality companies has always been a core belief at Craigs Investment Partners. “By quality we mean companies that have unique products, valuable intellectual property and sustainable competitive advantages, and a history of producing returns for shareholders. These are the types of companies that we expect will still exist in 50 years’ time. The same principle of focusing on quality and
“It’s an individual decision and one that we work closely with our clients
longevity also applies when investing in other asset classes”, adds Chantal.
3. Shut out the noise:
Avoid fixating on short-term market fluctuations. Instead, focus on the long-term prospects of your investments. Despite short-term volatility, maintaining a long-term perspective can lead to higher returns.
to determine the right balance. New Zealanders are traditionally very exposed to the property market and as recent times have shown, any asset can experience fluctuations in value. It’s crucial to spread your risk and cover your bases, rather than being too concentrated in one particular asset”, says Chantal.
2. Have a good investment strategy and stick to it.
“The thing with financial markets is that the further ahead in the future you look, the more predictable things often become. That’s the opposite of just about everything else in life. Markets are very hard to predict over days, weeks, months or even years. But the likely returns become much easier to see as we look further ahead. The hard bit as an investor is keeping your cool and remembering that core investment philosophy” explains Chantal.
As Craigs Investment Adviser Stuart Anderson explains, this second rule might sound simple, but it can be much harder to follow in practice.
4. Don’t delay:
“Setting a strategy involves more than choosing a diversified portfolio of investments. It’s a plan of action tailored to the individual for the good times and hard times. It’s a consistent and disciplined approach which manages risk, focuses on the determined time horizon, ensures that investments are suitably diversified, and adapts to market changes over time.”
There really is no benefit to waiting when it comes to investing. That’s why Craigs Investment Adviser Stuart Anderson encourages investors to start as early as you can. “The more you delay, the more you could miss out on the benefits of investing. If your goal is to build up wealth gradually, time in the market maximises the effects of compounding returns and can really magnify your gains over time.”
“It’s a fairly common misconception, but the role of a good adviser is not to try and predict the path of financial markets. It’s about constructing your portfolio in a way that grows your wealth based on your goals, needs and risk appetite and is sturdy enough to withstand changing market conditions.
“As investment advisers we often act as gatekeepers to protect against
5. Have a plan and stick to it: Investing should never be ‘one size fits all’. Working with Craigs Investment Partners means building an investment plan and portfolio tailored to your life
stage, financial situation, goals and values. “We collaborate with each client to determine their capacity and appetite for risk depending on their situation” explains Stuart.
6. Get advice:
irrational ideas or trades resulting from short-term market fluctuations to help you stay on course and keep your investment portfolio aligned with your plan, regardless of what is going on around you. Some see us as their money coach, an educator or a business partner.”
Craigs Investment Partners is one of New Zealand’s largest investment advisory firms, with over 180 qualified Investment Advisers across 19 branches in New Zealand.
These rules are simple and yet the finer details of them are undoubtedly easier to understand and implement with the help of an expert. Craigs Investment Partners is one of New Zealand’s largest investment advisory firms, with over 180 qualified Investment Advisers across 19 branches in New Zealand.
Chantal Baxter and Stuart Anderson are Investment Advisers at Craigs Investment Partners Hamilton branch. Contact Chantal and Stuart for all your investment needs to help navigate current market conditions.
Chantal Baxter and Stuart Anderson are Investment Advisers at Craigs Investment Partners Hamilton branch. Contact Chantal or Stuart for all your investment needs to help navigate current market conditions.
Craigs Investment Advisers Chantal Baxter and Stuart Anderson
Craigs Investment Advisers Chantal Baxter and Stuart Anderson.
Chinese sculptor Lu Bo, left, and painter Deng Bangzhen have kept the legacy of Rewi Alley alive through their art and writings.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
Safeguards to build resilience
By Viv Posselt
Establishing sound structures and identifying a clear plan to navigate changes are fundamental to the success of any business.
Harkness Henry partner Chad Danswan said this in Cambridge last month when addressing the topic of Legal Resilience in a Changing
The meeting was run in conjunction with the Cambridge Business Chamber and attended by 47 businessmen and women. Danswan shared the floor with colleague and Harkness Henry senior associate Paul Gascoigne. Both operate in the 149-year-old law company’s Cambridge office.
In outlining his own career pathway, which has incorporated time spent running his own business before partnering with others, Danswan said there were times he lacked clarity, particularly around the way forward.
“I had no plan for change. What I have learned is that you need to plan for the worst scenario.
"You need to have clear structures in place in order to navigate changes that will inevitably come. That is fundamental to any business, and not just to maintain it, but to grow and develop it. If those are not in place, your business is at risk of failing.”
Gascoigne said businesses that are resilient have good structures in place and incorporate nonnegotiables – tools that give them an advantage in the marketplace and ensure longevity.
Those non-negotiables include the need to have a good product or services, a great team, good clients or customers, good relationships with staff, clients and advisors, and a supportive spouse or life partner.
Sound business structures must be in place – whether for a limited liability company, partnership, sole trader, or family trust, and attention must be paid to “dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s” in crafting all agreements.
Those with family trusts must be familiar with the detail and be prepared to make amendments in the event of a change in circumstances.
“Everything changes in business over time… markets, customers,
relationships.
"People pass on, and a good business will prepare for that,” said Gascoigne, emphasising the importance of planned delegation of responsibilities for when changes come, including insurance and banking requirements and access to information.
“It is also important to have a business Warrant of Fitness, an annual review that means when things change, everyone in the team knows the systems in place can manage that change.”
He said only about 34 per cent of New Zealanders had a will.
That presents further risk to any business, as well as to those working in it and to wider family members. He urged people to ensure they had adequate coverage for all eventualities.
“Get those key documents in place before changes happen,” he said.
Other resilience tips the men shared included the importance for business owners to maintain a connection with the community and give back to it, the value of keeping fit – sometimes alongside colleagues, the importance of continued learning and taking on challenges, and taking notice of what is happening around them.
New pensioner units
Ten new tenants have moved into new pensioner housing units at Leamington’s Vaile Court. Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan handed over the keys to Habitat for Humanity who will manage the tenants on the council’s behalf. The homes aim to enhance quality of life for the eligible seniors. They promise energy savings and a healthier living environment with improved warmth and dryness.
History book
A book revealing the history of 30 Te Awamutu commercial buildings has sold 210 copies pre-publication and is close to breaking even. A Bricks and Mortar Legacy – Stories of Commercial Buildings in Te Awamutu 1890-1997 tells the story of the economic history of Te Awamutu. A print date is expected to be announced soon.
Record entries
Waikato Chamber of Commerce Business Awards has received a record 88 entries across different categories – 11 more than last year. This year’s categories are business growth and strategy, service excellence, people and culture, CEO of the year, for purpose, innovation, sustainability, marketing, small business of the year, emerging leader of the year, community contribution and international trade. Finalists will be announced on September 18 at Ninja Valley, the winner of last year’s people and culture award.
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Cambridge Business Chamber chief executive Kelly Bouzaid, flanked by Harkness Henry speakers Paul Gascoigne, left, and Chad Danswan. Photo by Viv Posselt
Information centres: they are
A trip to the Channel Islands was on senior writer Mary Anne Gill’s bucket list but putting together an itinerary from New Zealand became something of a struggle until she emailed the Jersey Information Centre.
This might seem like a travel piece on the Channel Islands, but it is really about the economic importance of having locals who can answer tourist queries in person, by email, website or phone.
When I booked my return trip to Hong Kong and United Kingdom earlier this year, I mentioned to the travel agent how keen I was to visit the Channel Islands.
She looked at me blankly as if I was asking to fly to the moon, so I went online and within half an hour I had emailed the information centre in Jersey.
Overnight I had a response and by week’s end my seven-day trip was organised. It was impressive and three months later, when the van driver picked me up at Jersey Airport – memories of that British crime series Bergerac flooding my senses – the bucket list dream came true.
When I mentioned the speed of the response to Cambridge i-Site general manager Ruth Crampton, she was unsurprised and told me about the hundreds of queries she and the Destination Cambridge team field every month.
At the time she was negotiating with tourism operators and Waipā District Council to keep the i-Site open.
She argued, successfully, that tourists/ visitors to Cambridge relied on organisations like Destination Cambridge for reliable, local information.
My holiday in Channel Islands provided affirmation of that.
The information centre put me onto Premier Holidays in Jersey who arranged for a transfer on Tantivy Blue Coach Tours from the airport to my accommodation and my travel representative Linden was there to greet me. She lives locally and took me through the various day trip options available.
I opted on day one for a minibus tour around the island.
It is true what they say, wherever you go
in the world, Kiwis are always there. Melissa from Paraparaumu lives in the UK while she waits to sort a visa out and we ended up being the adventurous ones on the tour.
We left St Helier from Liberation Square outside the famous Pomme d’Or Hotel which was used as the Nazi naval headquarters during the Germans’ occupation of the Channel Islands in World War II.
It was here where King Charles and Queen Camilla were ushered into on the first day of their royal tour last month following a security concern.
Our driver Kevin Kerrigan came from Newcastle in the UK 42 years ago to work as an engraver and is now a travel guide who tailors the trips to his audience.
Hence, he was able to talk about Orpheus Beaumont nee Newman who was born in Jersey days after New Zealand’s worst maritime disaster when the HMS Orpheus – for whom she is named - sank at the entrance to Manukau Harbour on February 7, 1863.
Her family moved to Dunedin in 1870 and Orpheus was haunted as a child by
thoughts of drowning at sea. In 1912 her brother William drowned and months later the Titanic sank. A competition was held to invent a better life jacket and she won with her design made from a cotton-like material harvested from the kapok tree. She died in 1951, aged 88.
Kevin mentions he hears dairying is pretty big in New Zealand too, so we go in hunt of some jersey cows. But dairying is taking a hit there because land previously used for it is now taken up with cannabis which grows well in the Channel Islands and is legally
Soda assistance outlined Powering up
Businesses received almost $670,000 of “capability funding” from Soda, Business NZ’s Waikato regional business partner.
The government funding, outlined in Soda’s annual report, was used by 323 small to medium business owners to train and upskill themselves and decision makers in their businesses.
“In the current economic climate where many businesses are struggling, this support is more vital than ever before,” Soda general manager Anna Devich, said.
“Soda plays an important role supporting Waikato business owners and founders to
achieve their goals – during both prosperous and difficult times.”
In 2023 Soda supported an additional 298 business owners and entrepreneurs through its range of business growth and support programmes and events and workshops attracted a further 606 people.
Soda also created and delivered a science, technology, engineering and mathematics futures accelerator to teach tertiary students skills and provide tools to help advance their by work with technology-rich Waikato companies.
Businesses also accessed research and
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development and innovation funding and support through Soda’s partnership with Callaghan Innovation.
Soda has also run a Rise Up Power Lunch series, through a partnership with Startup Aotearoa. Tech startups can receive free oneto-one coaching and through drop-in clinics at the University of Waikato’s Hiko Hub.
The Soda team was boosted by three new team members in 2024 including the return of Kate Wightman as a business growth advisor, innovation specialist Fern KellyZander and business growth advisor Sue Loder.
An electrical safety campaign developed by electricity distributor The Lines Company is being shared nationwide.
The King Country company developed the public campaign in-house.
It has already been picked up and used by Scanpower in the northern Tararua district.
TLC chief executive Mike Fox said it made sense to share the safety campaign and save other distribution companies and their communities time and money.
The campaign addresses topics such including trimming trees safely near power lines, safe digging practices, and bring aware of overhead lines.
Peter Griffin of Guernsey bought this boat called Kaikoura, seen leaving Herm, seven years ago and now uses it to fish the seas around the Channel Islands.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
worth their weight in tourism
available.
He also tells me about Mary Ann who inspired the beer that made Jersey famous. We went to St Aubin’s Bay, St Brelade Bay, Mont Orgueil Castle, Corbière Lighthouse, St Ouen’s Bay, the northern coastline, Gorey Harbour and returned via the east coast. My three days in Jersey included a trip to the Maritime Museum and the Liberation Tapestry, the Jersey Museum, a ride on Le Petit Train along the harbour, a walking tour around the town and Hohlgangsanlage 8 Jersey War Tunnels – also known as the German Underground Hospital.
Guernsey is smaller than Jersey. I pop into the Guernsey Information Centre in St Peter Port where Jean Brown helps me out
and recommends a walking tour and several bus trips on Guernsey’s excellent public transport system.
I hear about plans to move the information centre from its seafront site and downsize it into town which the Guernsey Press newspaper has since been reporting. Waikato is not the only region in the world facing tough decisions about information centres.
I also had day trips to two other Channel Islands - Sark and Herm, where I met Peter Griffin on his boat called Kaikoura - and commemorated Anzac Day at Fort George in Guernsey with fellow New Zealandersincluding Jonathan Bates who organised the service - Australians, the Dean of Guernsey,
lieutenant governor Richard Cripwell, baliff Richard McMahon and Royal British Legion president Bob Place. None of this trip would have been possible
without the expertise of the Channel Islanders at information centres, travel agencies, bus drivers and retailers. It was a win-win for everyone.
If
The Isle of Sark dairy where tourists can see cows milked, buy milk shakes and ice creams and fresh milk.
Kiwis Mary Anne Gill, bottom left, and Melissa Ashford, bottom right, joined up with a bus trip around Jersey and visited Mont Orgueil Castle in the background.
Protesters force panel discussion
Mary Anne Gill tours Waikato Settlement Centre in Hamilton, once home to the Marist Rugby Club.
It is the day before the “official” opening of the $4.3 million extension to the Waikato Settlement Centre and Ellie Wilkinson has a hundred things on her mind.
The Hamilton Multicultural Services (HMS) Trust Community Development partner added project manager to her CV while the building’s footprint doubled in a year to 1100 square metres.
Outside workers are putting up the last of the panels designed by artists on the front of the building. It is this art – showcasing migrants and refugees’ journeys and backgrounds –which hours later forced the opening’s cancellation.
A pro-Palestine group argued that one of the artworks representing Israel symbolised the “deeply painful and ongoing colonisation” of Palestinian land.
Wilkinson and executive chair Claire van der Most give no hint of the upcoming controversy when they took The News on a tour of the building starting at the new entrance where a pathway stands for the building’s awa.
It was to be quite a celebration. Hamilton Multicultural Services was formed 25 years ago out of concern for the gaps in services for people from diverse cultural, ethnic and linguistic backgrounds.
Ethnic communities minister Melissa Lee and Hamilton mayor Paula Southgate were among special guests due at the opening and birthday party.
In a statement van der Most said the ethnic panels wrap the building like a cloak and are a symbol
of diversity, inclusion and shared humanity. But the controversial panel is no longer on the building. Both the Israeli and Palestinian contributions were taken down.
Until 2004, the building in Claudelands Park was the Marist Rugby Club rooms. As our tour takes us from the new to the old part, the smell of muddy rugby boots or liniment is well gone but Wilkinson jokes it was only when they removed the old urinal that any remnants of its past rugby life was gone. It was back in 2018 the trust started consulting with the community about expanding the space and had its first conversations with an architect.
Hamilton City Council agreed to transfer ownership of the building to the trust and grant a 20-year lease on the land.
The work was expected to be finished in late 2022 but Covid put paid to that and last year – with funding secured from the trust’s reserves and the rest from Trust Waikato, Wel Energy Trust and Lottery Grants Board, Sky City Hamilton Community Trust and private donations – there was a ground breaking ceremony and construction began.
Ten months later the exterior was finished, and the trust moved in last month.
Wilkinson, who has been with the trust for 15 years, managed the project navigating her way through the process.
“I’ve learned about submissions, architecture, project management, anything construction, making quick decisions,
making good decisions, making slow decisions… who to talk to and when you need to talk to them, what can you manage yourself and what do you actually need to refer to other people. Where your level of responsibility sits, where you can own something and where you need to bring other people in,” she said.
“Never at any time did I think we couldn’t do this. I never doubted this would happen. You just have to navigate your way through all the things that come up. It’s like running a hurdle race, sometimes you can jump the hurdles because they’re a bit lower and sometimes the hurdles get a bit higher but I’m still going to jump them. I’m pretty organised.”
That is an understatement, jokes van der Most, who joined the trust three years ago.
The trust has a contract with the government to take 120-130 refugees every year. Most in recent years have come from Colombia, Afghanistan, the Congo and mainly Syria now.
Latest CBD Retail Occupancy Rates –Where Are ey Heading ?
Talking to businesses, it’s certainly not easy out there and while the pain appears most obvious within retail and hospitality, its not all doom and gloom.
The recently released CBD retail vacancy rate increased over the first half of 2024, moving from 8.9% in December 2023 to 9.3% in June 2024.
• The total amount of vacant space has increased from 7,145 sqm to 7,407 sqm, with a decrease in secondary grade, and increases in prime and tertiary grades.
• There are currently 27 occupancies that are under refurbishment or fitout and have temporarily been removed from the survey.
• The total NLA of the underrefurbishment retail stock has decreased to 3,758 sqm.
15-year low record of 5.5% vacancy in June 2022. The negative impact from rising interest rates over the course of 2023 has contributed to a difficult trading environment in 2024. Some of the recent departures were excessively large occupiers of prime space, which provides the opportunity for potential future repositioning to better suit demand. JB Hi-Fi’s 2H 2023 departure of 1,434sqm at Barton Street is an example of this.
As of June 2024, Prime retail space accounts for 38% or 30,343 sqm of the total CBD retail stock. Secondary stock is 24,883 sqm (31%), similar to Tertiary at 24,785 sqm (31%).
Prime grade experienced an increase in vacancy, moving from 13.7% in December 2023 to 14.8% in June 2024. The largest new vacancy is 570 sqm at 282 Barton Street, previously occupied by Torpedo 7. While this had a big impact, there were also additional new vacancies. Former JB Hi-Fi space at 308 Barton Street also remains empty.
Secondary grade experienced a reduction in vacancy over the last six months, moving from 3.5% to 2.9%.
Four occupants have taken previously vacant space in the first half of this year. They are; Tea Ceylandia at 3 Garden Place, Royal Hookah and Poly Barbers, both into the Market Place at 18 Hood Street, and AWF at 99 Victoria Street.
In Tertiary grade, vacancy also experienced an increase over the last six months, moving from 8.6% in December 2023 to 8.9% in the middle of this year. Two large new vacancies have occurred in this grade with Curtain Studio departing 483 sqm at 856 Victoria Street, and Chubb vacating 200 sqm at 903 Victoria Street. Despite the occupation by Re Circle (Scandinavian Re:Use Markets) at 313 Victoria Street, a long standing vacancy, this was not enough to fully offset the new vacancies.
Vacancy rates in the Hamilton CBD retail market have increased over the first half of 2024, continuing the upward trajectory trend that has been occurring since the
Recent timely data from the Westpac McDermott Miller consumer confidence index shows that while most New Zealand regions recorded a decrease in consumer confidence, Waikato was among a small group that recorded an improvement of consumer confidence between the first and second quarters of 2024, moving from 88.1 in Q1 to 88.7 in Q2 2024 (Auckland’s index decreased to markedly over the same period to 81.0, Canterbury’s decreased to 82.8 and Wellington’s decreased to 79.3). Despite the Reserve Bank’s indication that the OCR has peaked, along with the housing market being generally stable, a deepening downturn in the jobs market coinciding with cost-ofliving pressures have kept consumer confidence subdued over winter.
What does this all suggest?
The most recent survey of the Hamilton CBD retail market has been unremarkable and shows a central city in stasis. While there has been a recent drift toward increasing vacancy, we do not see this as a permanent reversal of Hamilton CBD’s trend toward becoming a niche retail destination, but more reflective of some space hungry occupiers consolidating or departing for suburban big box retail centres and leaving redevelopment opportunities in their wake, that will start to emerge with a strengthening national economy. Longer term drivers are positive and still in play, with ongoing office and residential development within the CBD expected to bring a new demand base into the central area over time.
To receive a copy of the latest CBD Retail Occupancy Survey, email: hamilton@naiharcourts.co.nz
Mike Neale, Managing Director, NAI Harcourts Hamilton
Clare van der Most
The roadblocks to attracting overseas investors to New Zealand
The Prime Minister was quoted, prior to last years’ election, as saying “The world is awash with savings, yet New Zealand does not provide a gateway that makes it easy for that capital to enter the country” –how true this is!
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) provides one of the most obvious opportunities available to New Zealand to inject the muchneeded capital, and economic stimulus, to turn our struggling economy around and to provide a catalyst for future growth. And yet New Zealand is in the bottom third of OECD economies based on inward FDI as a % of GDP and is currently rated as having the most restrictive FDI policies in the OECD FDI Regulatory Restrictiveness Index.
A recent report from the NZIER, titled “The place where talent does not want to live” highlights how New Zealand’s international tax regime significantly disadvantages foreign investors and, at the same time, actively discourages successful Kiwis from returning home. The Foreign Investment Fund (FIF) regime was introduced almost 40 years ago and, in a nutshell, is a tax on unrealised assets. Many successful entrepreneurs will have acquired, or have been rewarded with, equity in the ventures they have built or contributed to, while many tech workers would also have stock options as part of their remuneration package - and it is these assets which are caught by the FIF regime. There is a transitionary period of 4 years, following a persons’ move to New Zealand, before the FIF rules take effect. Most OECD countries, including Australia, do not have this same tax regime.
As well as a disadvantageous tax regime New Zealand also has a ban on most foreigners buying homes in New Zealand. It is understandable that high net
worth individuals contemplating a significant investment in New Zealand would be “put-off” by the fact they cannot buy a home to live in while they are here.
Recently I was in San Francisco as part of the New Zealand Trade & Industry delegation, which included New Zealand banks, lawyers, tax advisers, immigration professionals, wealth and venture capital fund managers. The event, staged in conjunction with the Sail GP finals, focussed on reconnecting with existing USAbased New Zealand business people and investor clients, and on promoting New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus (AIP) resident visa category to prospective migrant investors. The AIP is another significant hurdle which overseas investors must overcome if they wish to migrate to New Zealand. The AIP category requires an investment of between $5m and $11.25m which is progressively invested over a 4 year term. It is a complex and administratively challenging category with highly restrictive, directed and potentially risky investment requirements. The fact that only around 20 AIP resident visas have been issued, in the almost 2 years since the category opened, confirms that the category settings are yet another obstruction to attracting investors to New Zealand.
It has been reported that almost 130,000 high net worth individuals throughout the world will be seeking alternative countries for residence or citizenship in the next year. New Zealand desperately needs to attract its share of this international investment, and of this global talent pool, to stimulate our economy, and to realise the potential of our homegrown talent. This will simply not happen while we have the current regulatory roadblocks in place –something the Prime Minister is now in a position to fix…
Protesters force panel discussion
But since 1991 it has been Somalians who came to Hamilton, and it is their second and third generations who now give back to the community.
Hamilton has been described as the perfect city for refugees. It is easier to get around and to mix and mingle and “we do an exception job of supporting settlement,” said Wilkinson.
“The migrant journey is a little bit different. We do have migrants who come here for support. Migrants generally come here with a visa status of some sort. They come here for more intentional reasons,” said Wilkinson.
About 600-800 people annually come into the centre and register with the services.
“They can register and engage with a lot of services, there are a lot of touch points,” said van der Most rattling off health, driving, employment, housing and language.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11
The trust’s Decypher interpreting service is the most popular. Each month there are about 1200 interactions at hospitals and health facilities, police stations and court.
Its values – trust, integrity, inclusivity and quality of service – guide what they do although Wilkinson admits it is the last she looks at all the time.
“When you’re getting funders’ money, and you are saying give that to me and I am going to do a good thing with it. The quality of what you deliver is really important,” she said.
“You’re only as good as the last job you did, right?” said van der Most.
The trust employs 40 people – with more than 15 different ethnicities and 20 different languages - and has about 30 volunteers who help set up houses, support the refugees to learn such things as how to ride the bus, they help in the very popular ethnic football festival and are driving mentors.
COUNCIL COMMEMT
The centre is now the first purpose-built ethnic hub in New Zealand with a large multi-use space, five community rooms and three smaller waiting rooms, dedicated health, technology and prayer rooms and a community kitchen.
Toilet facilities have been improved and staff now have their own toilets and kitchen/staff room something Wilkinson and van der Most say is way overdue.
“We’re dealing with intensive stuff and some people have some complex problems which we deal with,” said Wilkinson so having a quiet staff space was critical.
The building would provide equitable access to information and essential services, said van der Most.
“It is our aim that this redevelopment will bring lasting positive change to our community for generations to come.”
Banging the drum
By MIKE KEIR
Time flies, I am coming up to two years as a first term councillor and it has been an interesting and enlightening experience.
On one hand I have been very impressed by the many volunteers who give their time through community committees, hall committees and other organisations that selflessly work hard to aid and benefit their communities. Also many council staff are there for the right reasons and try to provide a quality community service.
On the other hand is a system that is highly bureaucratic, regulated and constrained by planning processes, many mandated by central government. It does not have to be this way. Tokyo, a highly functioning city of over 37 million is not overly constrained by restrictive planning regulations.
greedy exploiters! So we will regulate these buildings to the point where they are unaffordable.
Local government often complains of being treated poorly by central government. Why? An interesting example of central government frustration is their current initiative to provide some cheaper housing options through the “granny flat” proposal. This would allow landowners to install a self-contained building of up to 60 square metres on properties with minimal consenting requirements.
It is a good initiative. We need to do something to stem the flow of our young people disappearing over the horizon as the opportunity of owning their own home in this country does the same (unless they have wealthy parents).
However, instead of seeing this as an opportunity, local government sees it as a problem. People cannot be trusted to build a self-contained building that has a kitchen and bathroom. The result will be new slums of substandard housing with all manner of problems. Landowners are
Yes, there will be some who will build rubbish, but most will try to build something decent, and any house is better than living in a car, and if you take the shackles off it allows people to innovate, be creative and that is where the magic happens. Young people often have great ideas, give them the opportunity to try some out and even if they don’t work, they will have learnt something. Councils do not have to be responsible for everything. If people want to put an unconsented building on their property let them, but also ensure they take responsibility for that building. Make sure it is put on the LIM or PIM so that any future prospective buyer is aware. End of story.
We try to cover all risks and all we end up doing is make everything incredibly expensive and a nightmare to oversee and certify. Traffic management in this country is a case in point.
New Zealand used to be a nation of can do, self-reliant, strong people. We are slowly turning into a nation of risk averse, insecure, second raters.
Risk is everywhere, risk is fun. If you want to manage risk the best tool is a team of well trained, well resourced, highly motivated people. Given that and we can take on any challenge and win most of time and if we don’t win, we learn.
If you were guaranteed a win every time it would be boring. Let’s take the shackles off, take some risks, let people innovate and experiment and get some fun back.
• Mike Keir is the Tamahere-Woodlands Ward representative on the Waikato District Council
Lions support spring clean
A conservation project centred around a natural spring at Cambridge Resthaven is a step closer to completion thanks to a $40,000 donation by Cambridge Lions.
Cambridge Resthaven representatives and eleven Cambridge Lions members recently visited the Te Puna Marama (Moon Spring) to view the new bridge, stairs and track that have been funded by Cambridge Lions.
The Cambridge Lions Club members remarked on the “stunning” 15–20-minute walk and
how much had been achieved.
Lions Club member Heidi Wehrle said, “Once signage is up and the community can participate, the location and native trees will draw people from Te Awa river walk as well as Cambridge itself to view the Te Puna Marama Spring, an important place in Cambridge’s history. Wonderful that Lions have been part of this journey.”
The spring is on the southern slope of Cambridge Resthaven in Vogel Street. It was discovered when Cambridge Resthaven purchased the land in 2013 and
came across the spring and stream in the overgrown hillside.
Cambridge Resthaven undertook a restoration project that has spanned nearly a decade, helped by volunteers and the financial support of community groups and Waipā District Council.
The project has included clearing the area of weeds, planting native plants, constructing paths, retaining walls, bridges, and drainage, and providing ongoing weed and predator control. What was once an overgrown expanse, has now been restored with native plantings that
are home to flourishing birdlife.
David Hall, Cambridge Resthaven CEO, acknowledged Cambridge Lions for their donation which had enabled the completion of the final stage of the construction work.
“We are looking forward to welcoming the public soon to enjoy this area.”
With the completion of the bridge, stairs and track, Cambridge Resthaven’s goal is to hold an official opening in Spring to acknowledge the many supporters of the project, then the area will be open to the public.
Science to the next level
The second half of a redevelopment of Exscite, Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato’s interactive centre for discovery, has been unveiled.
“From prehistoric fossils and pest control to atoms and astronomy, Exscite is a whole new way of looking at science,” said Liz Cotton, director of Museum and Arts.
“This is the culmination of months of planning, dreaming, and making by the Waikato Museum team and our partners.’’
In recent months the upper floor of the children’s science gallery has been refurbished and named Exscite: Taiao, in continuation of the 2023 renewal of the downstairs space, known as Exscite: Home.
Exscite: Taiao focuses on the country’s interconnected natural environment while Exscite: Home showcases the way science is an integral part of everyday life.
Exscite opened at Waikato Museum in 1996 as the region’s first science centre for children.
The facility will remain open while the rest of Waikato Museum is closed to December for renovations.
Personalised service every time WAIKATO AUTOMOTIVE DIRECTORY
In an era where large corporations often overshadow small businesses, Hamilton Windscreens stands as a testament to the enduring value of locally owned and operated enterprises.
For more than 35 years, this local gem has been providing top-quality windscreen repair and replacement services, cultivating a reputation built on trust, integrity, and exceptional craftsmanship. What sets Hamilton Windscreens apart is not just their technical expertise but also their genuine care for customers.
Their hands-on approach ensures that each client
receives personalized service, reflecting the business’s core values. Whether it’s a minor chip or a full replacement, the skilled team treats every job with the same level of dedication and attention to detail.
In a world increasingly dominated by faceless transactions, Hamilton Windscreens offers a refreshing alternative—a place where customers are treated like family.
This commitment to old-fashioned values, combined with modern techniques, makes Hamilton Windscreens not just a business but a landmark in Te Rapa. Here’s to many more years of keeping our views clear and our roads safe.
From Left to Right. Regan, Tina, Scott, John O, John P, Marcus, Jamie, Tyler, Ty, Anthony. Front: Nela A.k.a workshop dog.
Lions on the bridge – from left, Tina Chan, Paul Wong, Brent Montgomerie (front), Ian Crabb (back), Bill Cairns (front), Warren Beard (back), Tony and Judy Costello,
Heidi Wehrle, Murray and Monique Candy, and Elbe Moreland.
Photo: Michael Jeans
Top talent for the small business Recruiters a key role in top spots
Using a recruitment agency to fill key roles within an organisation is in today’s times of easy global communication, a crucial strategy especially when it comes to key roles.
These specialised agencies have a vital role in connecting companies with top talent and ensuring a smooth and efficient hiring process.
A good recruitment agency bases its operations on networks. They possess a deep understanding of the job market and specific industries, often having agents that specialise in specific sectors. They have expertise in identifying and attracting top-tier candidates who possess the skills and qualifications required for key roles. By partnering with a recruitment agency, organisations can leverage this specialised knowledge to secure the best talent available in the market.
Employment can be time-consuming and expensive for any organisations especially when it comes to filling key roles that require a high level of expertise. Recruitment agencies streamline the hiring process by conducting initial screenings, interviews, and assessments. This efficiency is particularly critical for key roles where time-to-fill is a key factor in ensuring business continuity and success. Perhaps more than any other thing, recruitment agencies have access to a vast network of candidates, including passive job seekers who may not be actively looking for new opportunities. This expanded talent pool allows agencies to source candidates with the right skill set and experience for
key roles, even if they are not actively applying to job postings. By tapping into this network, companies seeking key personnel can ensure that they are considering the best candidates available in the market.
And that is an important aspect. When filling key roles within an organisation, confidentiality on both sides is often paramount. Recruitment agencies rely on a high level of discretion throughout the hiring process, protecting the identity of both the hiring organisation and the candidates being considered. This level of confidentiality is essential for preserving the reputation and integrity of the organisation, especially when sensitive or executive-level positions are involved. It also protects the interests of the employee whose career often works to a complex strategy.
Then there is their value as experienced mediators during the negotiation and offer management stages of the hiring process. They can help facilitate discussions between the hiring organisation and the candidate, ensuring that both parties are satisfied with the terms of employment. This expert guidance can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts, leading to smoother onboarding processes and higher retention rates for key roles.
As agencies become familiar with the organisation's culture, values, and hiring needs, they can provide ongoing support and guidance for future recruitment efforts. This continuity can lead to greater success in filling key roles over time and building a strong talent pipeline for the organisation.
One of the hardest jobs a small business owner has to do is finding an employee who is the right fit for their business.
Someone who has the skills to help grow the business, who can do the jobs the owner may not have the time or experience to do.
And yet choosing the right employee can be a minefield of pitfalls, especially for someone who has never hired anyone before and has no knowledge of how to go through the process of understanding who will be a good staff member, and who may not.
So utilising a recruitment agency provides a range of advantages for small business owners looking to efficiently fill key roles towards building a talented team.
Agencies offer the resources and experience to navigate the complexities of the recruitment process effectively. They bring a wealth of expertise in sourcing, screening, and selecting candidates for various roles.
By leveraging the industry knowledge and hiring best practices of recruitment agencies, small business owners can ensure they are making informed hiring decisions and selecting candidates who are the best fit for their organisation.
There is also the fact traditional hiring methods can be costly for small businesses, especially when considering advertising expenses, screening tools, and time spent on interviewing candidates.
Recruitment agencies offer costeffective solutions by managing the endto-end recruitment process efficiently by having access to a diverse talent pool
“Small businesses often face fluctuating hiring needs based on their growth trajectory and changing market conditions.”
that includes candidates with varying skill sets, experiences, and backgrounds.. But it’s not just the hiring of full time or parttime staff.
Small businesses often face fluctuating hiring needs based on their growth trajectory and changing market conditions. Recruitment agencies offer flexibility and scalability in meeting these evolving hiring demands. Whether small businesses require temporary staff for a short-term project or permanent employees for long-term roles, recruitment agencies can adapt to their specific requirements and provide tailored recruitment solutions.
Because time is often of the essence for a small business owner, an agency will streamline the recruitment process by handling tasks such as job postings, candidate screenings, interviews, and reference checks on behalf of small businesses.
Small businesses often face challenges in finding qualified candidates quickly to meet their staffing needs. Recruitment agencies can expedite the hiring process, reducing time-to-fill for key roles and ensuring that vacancies are filled promptly. Additionally, agencies focus on finding candidates who not only meet the job requirements but also align with the company culture and values, leading to improved quality of hire for small businesses.
Attracting the right candidates: The art of a good position description
It’s not always easy finding the right candidate for a position (although here at Asset Recruitment, we aim to make it as easy as possible!). With numerous roles on the market at any one time, and many suitable candidates already gainfully employed, the process of attracting a new team member can be a test in patience for any employer.
But there is a way to kick start that process and it’s all about first impressions – the position description. Make a great first impression
Consider this… the most suitable candidate for the role might never have heard of your company, but the position description they come across on the job seeking platform they’re scrolling through is enough to stop them in their tracks. That’s the art of a great job description and it starts with a few opening words. Amy Sutton, Permanent Recruitment Specialist at Asset Recruitment, says the best position descriptions prioritise clarity over cleverness to communicate the role on offer. “There are certainly similar roles in every organisation but when we’re recruiting, it can often be tempting to refer to that role as something a little different. If candidates have to stop and try and understand what the role is you’re advertising, it’s already in the too hard basket.”
Tip #1: Use terminology that clearly states what role you’re advertising and populate it with keywords to ensure your job description appears in search engines. Create a sense of the new
There’s an excitement associated with job hunting. When candidates are looking for a new role, there’s a sense of a new
start, new opportunities, something that’s a little bit different and a change to the norm. The art of a good position description is capturing that excitement.
“Create a sense of what life is like in your organisation, the team culture, the benefits,” says Amy. “Some of this can be stated within the job description, but you can also give potential candidates a feel for your workplace by the language you use.”
Tip #2: Use an active voice in your position descriptions to convey a sense of the new.
Clearly state the why Candidates want to know their employment is worthwhile and that the role they’re applying for brings value to an organisation. Make sure it’s clear why this job exists, what the responsibilities are, and what contribution it will make to the business, wider team culture, clients and customers, and society in general.
“More and more candidates are seeking roles that have a purpose,” explains Amy. “Of course, that purpose will be different for each candidate and each organisation, but when there is an alignment of values, that’s when great hires are made.”
Tip #3: State the WHY of the job and clearly identify what contribution the successful candidate has the opportunity of making to their wider community. Summarise roles and responsibilities There’s a similar format among most position descriptions: summary of the role, background to the company, tasks and responsibilities, skills and experiences. These are all important sections to include, but how you include them can help give potential candidates a
sense of your organisation.
“Any job seeker wants to know what they’ll be doing in a role, whether that’s daily tasks or long-term projects,” says Amy. “Outline what these are but try and summarise them, rather than including long bullet point lists of requirements.”
Tip #4: Summarise what the roles and responsibilities of the job are while giving a sense of variety that will come with the position.
Deliver on your description
Any position description must be an accurate reflection of the work you’re
outset.
“A job description is an integral part of an employment contract,” says Amy. “It outlines what’s required in a role and the work that must be undertaken and delivered to meet those expectations. This forms part of the employment agreement which is signed by both parties.”
Tip #5: An accurate position description outlines the expectations of the role and what is required of the candidate from the outset.
Positioning excellence
Now’s the time to book
With less than 20 weeks until Christmas, now is the right time to be thinking about booking that venue for your Christmas function.
Especially in areas where venues are at a premium every Christmas, availability is the primary reason you want yours booked no matter what the occasion, whether it be a work function, wedding, significant birthday or a special event.
Popular venues often get booked out months in advance, sometimes even a year prior. This month is one of the last of the year where you still have a wide array of options to choose from, ensuring you get a venue that aligns with your preferences and requirements.
Waiting until later can severely limit your choices, potentially forcing you to settle for less ideal locations.
Booking your venue early can also be more cost-effective. Many venues offer early bird discounts for clients who book well in advance. As the holiday season approaches, prices tend to increase due to higher demand. Securing a venue by mid-year allows you to take advantage of lower rates and avoid last-minute price surges. Additionally, early booking gives you the opportunity to budget more effectively, spreading out the costs over several months rather than facing a substantial financial burden all at once.
Making the most of a small venue
We are all used to the office boardroom, squeezing the staff in for the think tanks we have every now and again.
But sometimes, it’s a great idea to get away and provide a small, intimate conference setting that is known to produce some really good results.
Intimate conference venues, characterised by their smaller, more personal settings, offer a range of benefits that can enhance the overall effectiveness and experience of a conference, yet on a much smaller budget.
These venues foster a sense of closeness and engagement that larger venues often struggle to achieve.
One of the most significant advantages of small venues is the increased opportunity for engagement and interaction. Smaller spaces naturally encourage participants to communicate more freely and build stronger connections.
In a closer setting, participants are more likely to interact on a personal level, leading to meaningful conversations and stronger networking opportunities.
It is known smaller groups facilitate greater participation in discussions
and activities, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
It also leads to higher levels of focus and productivity. With fewer distractions and a more concentrated group, participants can dedicate more attention to the conference’s goals and objectives.
Smaller settings allow for more targeted and tailored content delivery, which can be more relevant and impactful for the attendees, often less overwhelming than large venues, creating by virtue of its smaller size a more relaxed and manageable environment.
Intimate venues foster a sense of community and belonging among participants. This sense of community can be vital for teambuilding and collaborative efforts.
The close-knit environment of an intimate venue means that participants share more of their experiences together, building a collective memory of the event.
Intimate venues often provide greater flexibility for customisation and personalisation, allowing the event to be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the attendees.
Small spaces mean organisers can design the conference layout, activities, and content to closely
“In a closer setting, participants are more likely to interact on a personal level, leading to meaningful conversations and stronger networking opportunities.”
match the interests and needs of the participants and with fewer attendees, it’s easier to include special touches such as personalised materials, bespoke menus, or unique décor that enhance the overall experience.
Obviously, they can be more cost-effective compared to larger ones, allowing for a better allocation of resources which can free up budget for other essential elements such as high-quality catering, guest speakers, or engaging activities.
Many intimate venues are located in unique or exclusive settings, which can add a special charm to the event.
Often, small venues are boutique hotels and retreats. These venues often offer a distinct ambiance and personalised service that can lift the conference experience, especially if held in a historic or culturally significant venue.
Our purpose built catamaran is designed for celebrations! Cruise Raglan Harbour’s calm waters with up to 70 people, listening to great music and catching an end of year sunset aboard the Wahinemoe. Or just kick back and relax with a daytime cruise.
orough start to teamwork events
Team building is a big part of getting the very best from not only staff but from those who work closely with your business or company.
So in choosing a conference centre that has that philosophy as its core business, you need to look at what their conference centre offers because its crucial to ensuring the success of the event.
The right environment can foster collaboration, creativity, and camaraderie among team members.
The location of the venue is your first consideration. It should be convenient for all attendees, minimising travel time and expenses. Consider venues that are easily accessible by major transportation routes and offer ample parking. Proximity to airports or public transportation can be an added advantage, especially for out-of-town participants.
One that is central to where most participants live or work will ensure maximum attendance.
However, a change of scenery can invigorate participants, particularly in scenic locations such as coastal resorts, countryside retreats, or even urban centres with a vibrant atmosphere can provide a refreshing change.
The venue must comfortably accommodate your entire team. Ensure the space is neither too small nor excessively large.
Confirm that the venue has adequate and appropriately sized meeting rooms.
Consider breakout rooms for smaller group activities.
Look for venues with ergonomic seating and climate control to ensure participants’ comfort throughout the event. Too cold, or too hot and the concentration or enjoyment levels are gone.
You’ll need technology, including high-speed internet, projectors, sound systems, and video conferencing capabilities.
Quality food and beverages can significantly enhance the overall experience, so look for venues that offer a variety of catering options to suit different dietary requirements.
If your event spans multiple days, consider venues that offer on-site or nearby accommodations. This convenience can enhance networking and team bonding outside of structured activities.
At Camarosa, we make your function unforgettable. From birthdays and weddings to corporate events and memorials, we offer upmarket dining and hospitality for groups of 10-200. Enjoy our full AV equipment and let us create a memorable experience for your special occasion.
now at info@camarosa.co.nz.
Importantly, team building is not just about meetings and workshops; recreational activities play a crucial role in fostering team spirit, so choosing a venue that offers a variety of teambuilding activities such as ropes courses, sports facilities, or group workshops is ideal.
Consider locations near outdoor adventure opportunities, cultural attractions, or other activities that can be incorporated into your team-building program.
Every team-building event has unique requirements. The venue should be able to accommodate these needs.
It does help too if the venue provides dedicated event coordinators who can assist with planning and execution, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Budget is always a critical consideration. The goal is to find
a venue that offers the best value without compromising on essential features.
You need to be sure the venue provides clear pricing with no hidden costs. Ask about packages that might include meals, accommodations, and activities.
Some venues offer additional services like team-building facilitators, AV technicians, or shuttle services that can add value and reduce logistical challenges.
Research the venue’s reputation by reading reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Positive feedback can provide reassurance of the venue’s quality and service.
Whenever possible, conduct a site visit to get a firsthand impression of the venue’s facilities, staff, and overall ambiance.
Do the thorough groundwork and research first will make sure that your event gets off to a flying – and usually successful start.
“Look for venues with ergonomic seating and climate control to ensure participants’ comfort throughout the event. Too cold, or too hot and the concentration or enjoyment levels are gone.” A spectacular lakeside venue with stunning views! – Located just minutes from Cambridge!
Sir Don Rowlands Centre – Lake Karapiro
Hamilton Multicultural Services Trust executive chair Claire van der Most, left, and Community Development partner Ellie Wilkinson at the entrance to the expanded Waikato Settlement Centre in Hamilton.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
First in the industrial class of the Waikato section of the national electricians apprenticeship challenge at Mystery Creek was Damian Dawson, of the Hennessey Group last month. He was pictured with Master Electricians Waikato branch president Ben Thornton.
Seen at Harkness Henry’s presentation in Cambridge on Legal Resilience in a Changing Business World were Dawn Harpur of Octopus for a Preemie NZ Charitable Trust, left, and the Cambridge Business Chamber’s membership and events manager Aroha Croft. Photo: Viv Posselt
Leyla Scutts, Olivia Turner, Felix Rowe and Tayla Marie Cassells are part of the cast in Hamilton Operatic Society’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Clarence Street Theatre until August 10. Photo: Mark Hamilton.
In the greenhouse at Idea Services rural property near Ōhaupō were from left, Ali Kadham, Kawaljeet Singh, Raymond Tepea, Harry Singh and Ricky Robson. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
Betty Young of Cambridge and Justine James of Hamilton are Lodge hosts at the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
The Ruakura service won the Enrich+ Team of the Year award at the Waikato disability organisation’s Staff Celebration Day held at Zenders Café and Venue in Newstead, Hamilton. Pictured were, Back from left, Ruute Silao, Joe Cole, Karl Bentley, Denise Shine-Peters, Jodi Chapman, Angela Gray, Lorraine Hitchcock. Front, Tea Matatia, Chanelle Potter, Shosannah Gleeson. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
The Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty hosted a Waikato Chamber of Commerce BA4 last month. Staff on hand, were from left: Henny Swinkels, chief executive Helen Carter, chair Matt White, Heather Connolly, Charlie Poihipi and Saffron Mitchell. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
Out and about…
Enrich Group Human Resources administrator Denise Huia, right, with executive lead Janet Steffert, won the Excellence in Customer Service award at the Enrich+ Staff Celebration Day at Zenders Café and Venue in Newstead, Hamilton last month.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
MenzShed national chairman David Broadhead took time out during a health expo organised by Te Awamutu MenzShed to discuss the Sheddies book with Richard Cato.
Waikato leaders came together at the Smarter Futures leadership summit at Waikato University last month to build stronger communities around schools to assist with student attendance. Pictured from left were Donovan Clarke (Angelsea Clinic Group CEO), Julian Williams (Te Huia Natural Resources, executive director) and son Anthony, Mary Jensen (Smart Waikato, CEO), Jeremy Lardelli (Sealed Air) and Maddie Walker (Smart Waikato).
A July presentation by Harkness Henry supported by the Cambridge Business Chamber, discussed Legal Resilience in a Changing Business World. Among about 45 attendees were, from left, Harkness Henry solicitor Sharnae Aben, Michelle Kergozou of Arizto Real Estate, and Momentum NZ chief executive Simon Wickham, who is a former chief executive of Harkness Henry.
Photo: Viv Posselt
At the opening ceremony of the Rewi Alley photo exhibition in Cambridge Town Hall last month – in partnership with the New Zealand China Friendship Society of Hamilton – were from left Shansong, Sunhui, You Shan and Dunhua Lu. Dunhua Lu, general manager and chief engineer of PetroChina Chemical Cleaning Company, had flown out from China the day before to attend. The exhibition showcased photographs and artifacts from the life of Rewi Alley, courtesy of his foster son and renowned artist, Deng Bangzhen and his wife artist Lu Bo, who created the exhibition’s statues. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
Fairfield College principal Richard Crawford, right and Education Waikato director Marcus Freke (Ministry of Education, Director of Education Waikato) chat at the Smarter Futures leadership summit at Waikato University last month attended by 115 industry sector leads, secondary school principals, board chairs and community leaders.
The second half of an extensive redevelopment of Exscite, Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato’s interactive centre for discovery was revealed last month and at the opening were, from left, Hamilton mayor Paula Southgate, Museum and Arts director Liz Cotton, museum curator Jon Primmer and pou aarahi Sonny Karena. Photo: Supplied.
Hill Labs is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year – and managing director Jonno Hill, right, credits its success to the cultural values instilled by his parents Roger (left) and Anne when they founded the Hamilton company. Photo: Supplied.
Celebrating 10 years with Toitū.
Achieving such a milestone requires ongoing diligence, innovation, and teamwork, and it is truly heartening to see our hard work pay off.
In 2024, Foster Construction Group Ltd (Fosters) celebrates 10 years of enviromark diamond status.
It means that Fosters successfully completed the annual audit requirements for Toitū enviromark diamond certification for the tenth year in a row. No corrective actions have been noted for the last two years.
Fosters CEO Nigel Sun said the 10-year achievement was “a reflection of the effort put in across the entire business.
“Achieving such a milestone requires ongoing diligence, innovation, and teamwork, and it is truly heartening to see our hard work pay off.
“From building more sustainably to finding new ways to recycle waste, it’s fantastic to see how every person on the Fosters team has some understanding of what we’re trying to achieve and does their bit to help us
reduce our impact on the environment.
“And, whilst this is a celebration of our past performance, it clearly demonstrates Fosters’ commitment to the future.”
There are 17 key elements and achievements for Toitū enviromark diamond certification, including document control processes, internal audits of Fosters’ environmental management system (EMS), management reviews of the EMS, providing resources, and demonstrating leadership and commitment in allocating appropriate personnel and resources to EMS.
Fosters are the only commercial construction company in New Zealand to hold both Toitū enviromark diamond and carbon zero certification.
Fosters’ Hamilton office team, representing only a portion of the 200+ people behind the 10-year Toitū accreditation.
