FYI June July 2020

Responding to COVID-19 Working together to prosper and thrive

BNH Members’ News Local innovations and initiatives Pg 10

Business Insights and Resources Industry leaders share their advice Pg 14

Community

Crown’s partnership with The Salvation Army Pg 22

JUNE 2020 — MEMBER NEWS AND INFORMATION

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F RO M T H E C H A I R

From the Chair The unprecedented and challenging times that we are currently experiencing have served to illustrate that our organisational culture and structure are very strong, as the team seamlessly transitioned both into and out of COVID-19 Alert Levels 2, 3 and 4. The team agreed prior to the enforced work-fromhome period not to isolate in isolation, and maintained regular contact with each other via e-mail, team meetings and WhatsApp. Ironically, our two relationship co-ordinators both reported surprising levels of engagement when phoning businesses, most of whom were happy to receive their calls. Our staff all returned to the office on Monday, 18th May and have hit the ground running, picking up tasks as if they’d never been away.

We are introducing the option for staff to work from home one day per week, as the recent lockdown period illustrated their capability to do so very effectively, whilst also reducing our carbon footprint somewhat.

Business North Harbour will continue to support our members to get through the current situation by advocating to Council for financial relief/support as part of our submission to the Auckland Council Emergency Budget 2020/2021. We’ll also be continuing to update and share useful information, links and resources available relating to COVID-19 on our website and via our social media platforms. Additionally, we will research, develop and implement a number of new initiatives in response to the identified needs of our members – of which further information will be communicated in due course.

The board also wrote to Council cancelling the proposed 3.1 per cent increase in members’ fees for 2020/21 as we didn’t feel it appropriate in light of the current environment.

Kia kaha.

Peter Lamberton Chair, Business North Harbour

In this issue 4

In Brief

8

Advocacy

6 9

Events

Money Matters

10 BNH Members’ News 12 Transport

14 Cover Story

21 Crime Prevention

19 Professional Development: Maat Group

23 BNH News

18 Professional Development: Driveline Fleet

20 Professional Development: Giltrap North Shore

22 Community: Crown and The Salvation Army

29 Government

30 Property Matters 31 Silver Sponsor

32 Gold Sponsors

24 Sustainability

28 Asian Business

BUSINESS NORTH HARBOUR GOLD SPONSORS 2019-2020:

Business Hub North Shore

Women in Business Event Series Sponsor

BUSINESS NORTH HARBOUR SILVER SPONSOR 2019-2020:

Contact FYI Magazine Business North Harbour General Manager Kevin O’Leary kevin@businessnh.org.nz

Editor Lizzie Brandon lizzie@writesphere.co.nz

Advertising Peter Green comms@businessnh.org.nz

Design Lewis Hurst lewis@hurstmedia.nz

Printer PrintLounge printlounge.co.nz

Business North Harbour, 12 Parkway Drive, North Harbour, 0632. PO Box 303 126, North Harbour 0751 office 09 968 2222 web businessnh.org.nz The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers. The publishers do not endorse any person, company or organisation that advertises in this publication.

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IN BRIEF

Coping with “Zoom fatigue” The video conferencing technology helping us to stay audibly and visually connected has undoubtedly been a lifeline this year, but it is a new and unfamiliar communication method for many, and it can drain your energy.

Gianpiero Petriglieri, an associate professor at Insead, who explores sustainable learning and development in the workplace spoke to BBC Worklife. He explained video chats require us to work harder to process non-verbal cues like facial expressions, the tone and pitch of the voice, and body language. All of which demands a lot of energy. “Our minds are together when our bodies feel we’re not. That dissonance, which causes people to have conflicting feelings, is exhausting. You cannot relax into the conversation naturally,” he said.

Silence can also be tricky. “Silence creates a natural rhythm in a real-life conversation.

However, when it happens in a video call, you become anxious about the technology.” It can also make people feel awkward. Apparently delays of just 1.2 seconds can make people feel that others on the call are less friendly or unfocused.

Psychology Today makes several recommendations, including:

Consider covering the image of yourself on the screen We do not usually watch ourselves as we communicate with others. This means our brains are analysing how we are presenting ourselves while also trying to follow the conversation. A strategically placed post-it note could be helpful.

This can actually feel like a more authentic and personal connection. It also means you can close your eyes or gaze out of a window if that helps you concentrate. Plus, you can also take notes with pen and paper, which has been shown to aid focus and retention.

Give yourself a break Don’t schedule back-to-back meetings. At least give yourself a chance to walk around, get some fresh air, have a good stretch and grab a drink.

Pick up the phone

Keep “office” and “living” areas separate

You could go one step further and chat on the phone for some of your one-to-one meetings.

If you can, try to keep work and home apart.

Try to adopt habits that help you transition

Free online learning from Harvard University Harvard University offers dozens of free online courses through its own website and via the edX platform. The subjects span everything from Ancient Egyptian art and archaeology to the health effects of climate change to improving your business through a culture of health to web programming and game development.

Go to online-learning.harvard.edu or www.edx.org/school/harvardx to find out more.

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from one mindset to another. For example, you could change the radio station you listen to, or have a mug that you use only during worktime.

Further reading: bbc.com/worklife/article/ 20200421-why-zoom-video-chatsare-so-exhausting psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ deviced/202004/why-video-chatsare-wearing-us-out psychologytoday.com/us/blog/lifetimeconnections/202004/zoom-fatigue-dont-letvideo-meetings-zap-your-energy

NZTA scam alerts: rego renewal and overdue toll e-mails There are scam e-mails circulating asking the recipient to renew their rego through a fake website or use an attachment to pay for “past tolls”.

Genuine NZTA e-mails come only from @nzta.govt.nz.

Scam e-mail addresses may look similar (e.g., nzta.co.nz or nzta.qovt.nz) and the message may be missing specific details, such as your vehicle make, plate number and rego expiry date.

For more advice about how to spot and report a scam or phishing e-mail, go to nzta.govt.nz/online-services/ report-a-phishing-scam

IN BRIEF

Mentemia: helping Kiwis cope and thrive through COVID-19 “The things I learned all those years ago to get me well, now everyone needs for good quality of life.” - Mentemia co-founder Sir John Kirwan It is 25 years since Sir John Kirwan first got support for his mental health. Now he is an integral part of the team behind Mentemia, an app for New Zealand businesses and employees.

“Forward thinking workplaces are waking up to the fact that mental wellbeing is as important as physical wellbeing. Navigating this connected digital world with more balance can create happier, healthier, more resilient employees. Mentemia is one such platform that can help – think of us as a wellbeing coach in your pocket.”

The app has been developed for working age people, and to provide useful information and tools to help users build healthy habits that enhance their mental wellbeing and resilience. Usually the app would be paid for by the businesses that wish to share it with their employees but is now freely available to everyone at least until October 2020.

V Free for all: Google Meet challenges Zoom Over the past few months, Zoom has grown from 10 million daily users to more than 200 million. Concerns over security seem to have done little to diminish its popularity. But now the platform is now facing serious competition from Google, who announced in May that Google Meet, its premium video conferencing software, will be free for everyone.

Previously it was part of Google’s G Suite which requires a monthly subscription. Now it is available to anybody with a Google account.

Meetings will be restricted to 60 minutes (but only from 1st October) compared with 40 minutes on a free Zoom account.

To compare other features (e.g., participant numbers) between Zoom, Google Meet and MS Teams, check out: techrepublic.com/article/ zoom-vs-microsoft-teams-vs-googlemeet-how-do-they-compare

NZ trade marks are cheaper now If you have been inspired to innovate or branch out into a new business, product or service, you may be pleased to learn that the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) has reduced its fees for trade marks.

Application fees have dropped from $150 per class to $100.

The fee for an IPONZ Search and Preliminary Advice (S&PA) report, used to check if your trade mark is available, is now $50 per class. If you then file a trade mark application within three months of your S&PA report (and the trade mark matches your S&PA application) the $50 S&PA fee will be deducted from the cost of your trade mark application.

Every ten years, when you renew your trade mark, the fees will be less too: $200 per class instead of $350.

For more information, visit iponz.govt. nz/about-ip/trade-marks/fees Some fees for patents have increased however, with a new Excess Claims fee introduced for more complex applications with 30 or more claims during the examination process.

Learn more at iponz.govt.nz/about-ip/ patents/fees Do you know if your logo, brand or business name is unique?

Go to iponz.govt.nz, and use the free service: Trade Mark Check.

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E V E N TS

Rod Large, Smart-Train: Social Networking and Influencing Skills 16th March 2020 Business Capability Workshop For more than 30 years, Rod Large has been helping business leaders realise their potential through empowering “nuts and bolts” training programmes. This presentation was typically down-to-earth, packed with commonsense advice and practical exercises.

In order to forge successful relationships and build our network, it is important to understand how we and others prefer to communicate. Rod therefore walked his audience through the four “social styles” (red, yellow, green, and blue), sharing tips about appealing to each and, where possible, how to “be the rainbow”.

To overcome shyness, and to make the most of networking opportunities, Rod suggested asking a person that we do know to introduce us to someone we do not. That way, our inclusion in a conversation should be softer and smoother. He also encouraged the principle of “psychological reciprocity” or, to put it another way, to offer help before asking for something. That willingness to give before receiving will generally be matched by the other person, even if it begins with a simple request to “tell me more about what you do”.

Buy North Harbour is a new Facebook group specially to help BNH members and associate members connect, communicate and collaborate.

Join today, and:

• Promote your products and services.

• Pass on your experience and advice.

• Share your neighbours’ deals across your social media.

Together we can #supportlocal, #buylocal, #lovelocal.

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Wanting to join this group, but not a member of Business North Harbour?

Visit businessnh.org.nz/membership or call the BNH team on (09) 968 2222 to learn about the benefits of associate membership.

we believe we are better together

coworking provides the opportunity to share costs, intellectual smarts and collaborate

OFFICE SPACE DESK SPACE EVENT SPACE MEETING SPACE CARPARK SPACE

I would like to personally invite you to call in and view your potential new office space or meeting room, for your next important engagement.

Dean Payn

09 972 0626 | www.thecrate.co.nz | 28 Constellation Drive, Rosedale 0632

A DV O CACY

A request for submissions Advocacy, probably now more than ever, is a vitally important role for Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) as, both individually and collectively, we try to influence decisions which have an effect on the economic development and prosperity of our members. We are all far too aware of the detrimental effect of COVID-19 on the economy nationally, regionally and more importantly for Business North Harbour (BNH), locally. So we must now ensure more than ever that our voice is heard, as we support our members on their journey towards economic recovery.

Since the last edition of FYI in March, BNH has advocated and made submissions on the Auckland Council Annual Budget 2020/2021 and the review of Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs), both of which are available on the BNH website. The advocacy in relation to the Council Annual Budget also included a joint presentation with five other BIDs to the council’s finance and performance committee and the mayor, at which we highlighted the economic challenges being faced by our businesses and property owners. We also outlined the likely significant impacts of COVID-19 as we headed into the various lockdown levels. We asked Council to give particular consideration to the financial implications for businesses as they set business rates and differentials, and further asked for deferments, payment holidays or other methods of relief/ support to be considered.

BNH has already shared with members via our website and EDM that due to the current

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unprecedented circumstances, Aucklanders are being asked to have their say on Auckland Council’s proposed “emergency budget”, which is its response to the financial impacts of COVID-19. The new round of consultation opened on 29th May and submissions must be received by 19th June, with adoption by the council’s governing body in late July 2020. The emergency budget consultation is in addition to consultation carried out in March on the Annual Budget 2020/2021 noted above. Now,

...we must now ensure more than ever that our voice is heard, as we support our members on their journey towards economic recovery. as we did then, BNH would encourage all our members to provide their feedback individually to ensure that your views are submitted for consideration. Just another gentle reminder not to leave it to others, as apathy and influence do not go hand in glove.

Sustainability and the implications for businesses, particularly SMEs, has also seen BNH proactively advocating to Council regarding the need to support businesses to

better understand their role, what sustainability means for them and how they can become more sustainable. In relation to the same topic, BNH also contributed to the development of a Sustainable Business Network (SBN) climate report, aimed at providing some guidance and support for SMEs to accelerate climate action, which is available through SBN. Finally, a quick update on our Bridge to the Future (BTTF) strategy which looks at taking a collaborative approach with a range of key stakeholders to ensure that the development of the North Shore, not just our Business Improvement District, is shaped in a planned and integrated manner. The project continues to gain support, with our local boards and Infrastructure NZ taking a keen interest and, despite some delays due to the lockdown, we hope to be in a position to make an informed decision as to the ongoing feasibility of the initiative within the next few months.

BNH looks forward to some positive outcomes for our members as we continue to dedicate time and resource to influencing important issues.

External links to read more: businessnh.org.nz/formal-submissions/ Bridge to the Future: businessnh.org.nz/ agm-reports/

Kevin O’Leary General Manger, Business North Harbour

M O N E Y MAT T E R S

Debt management in the wake of COVID-19 Why respect and understanding are a two-way street.

The medium to long-term economic effects of COVID-19 are still unknown, but one thing’s for sure: the cashflow of most businesses has been impacted to some degree. Being a debtor or a creditor in these uncertain times can be extremely stressful, which is why it’s important to keep communication lines open with honest dialogue.

Whether you owe the money or you’re the person who is owed, that first phone call is probably the hardest. It may feel very uncomfortable to initiate contact, but it’s essential that you both establish a basis from which to work.

If you’re owed money, you need to find out if the debt is disputed. If it is, you may have to seek advice from your accountant and/ or lawyer.

If the debt is not in doubt, what would be a reasonable timeframe for it to be paid? Would full payment within seven days be feasible, or would a series of instalments be more

appropriate? This will depend on various factors, including perhaps your knowledge of the debtor and how long the debt has been outstanding. If the debt can’t be paid immediately, remember that some is better than none.

Ask: “What can you afford?” and be willing to work with your debtor, based on the evidence they have to support their proposal.

Unfortunately, every so often you may encounter a “professional debtor”. They repeatedly owe money with little or no intention of repayment. In these cases – which, I should stress, are the minority – it’s even more critical to stay engaged. Once somebody disappears off your radar it can be very challenging to recover the debt.

If dealing with debtors is feeling too overwhelming, you may decide you need help from a debt collection agency. Certainly, this does give the impression that you’re serious about recovering the monies, and just mentioning that you’re passing the case to an agency could prompt a swift settlement.

When you’re choosing an agency, make sure you select one that will protect your brand

and reflect its values. Phone calls and e-mails will go to and fro, and, if these are aggressive or heavy-handed, they may get you a quick “positive” result, but the backlash – via social media or word of mouth – could do lasting damage to your reputation. Ask the agency if they record their phone calls, and for the type of questions they’ll be asking the debtor.

These should be respectful, offering room for firm but fair payment negotiation.

Above all, directly or indirectly, keep talking.

Remember that we’re in this together, and collaboration will help us all come out stronger.

Zelda Nichols is the group sales manager at ICMS Credit Systems Ltd, based in William Pickering Drive.

Business North Harbour Associate Membership Business North Harbour Associate Membership is available for those who operate, own or rent a business or property outside the North Harbour Business Improvement District.

Associate Membership gives you opportunities to connect, communicate and collaborate with other businesses: Workshops / Advertising / FYI magazine Crime Prevention / Business Directory / Enews Membership is charged on a pro-rata basis to 30th June 2020 at $380 + GST per annum For more information contact Kate on 09 968 2222 or admin@businessnh.org.nz

M E M B E R S ’ N E WS

Zeald offers free e-commerce websites to New Zealand SMEs The company’s Get eCommerce Movement (GEM) “COVID-19 digital transformation fund for small and medium-sized businesses” has already provided 500 sites.

As businesses scramble to adapt to the effects and repercussions of COVID-19, one local website development company is providing a free digital lifeline.

In the first tranche of the project, Zeald, which has its head office in Tawa Drive, has been developing 500 fully functional e-commerce websites for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for free (excluding transaction fees).

Chairman David Kelly says that this is a major pivot and new mission David Kelly for Zeald, specifically to help SMEs survive by swiftly evolving the way they do business. “The COVID-19 emergency has seen a quick shift by thousands of New Zealanders to online purchasing. Some e-commerce sellers have been overwhelmed and had to prioritise customers.”

John Houma is one of Zeald’s digital growth specialists. He strongly encourages SMEs to consider their “pathway to purchase” and, in particular, what components will need to be adapted for contactless, e-commerce. “Even when the country is back to some sort of

“The COVID-19 emergency has seen a quick shift by thousands of New Zealanders to online purchasing.” normality, why would we all return to the old ways of shopping? This is an opportunity to improve or expand your business, but you need to identify the points along the sales process that need improvement. For example, how are you going to fulfil the picking and packing or the couriering of the goods?”

“Every business owner should be considering how they can diversify the products or services they offer,” he says.

The e-commerce sites are available to a number of industry sectors, including food and beverages, medical John Houma services sales, electronic goods, security products, and pet food and products.

Since the initial tranche of 500 websites has been fully allocated, Zeald has launched GEM 2.0, and pledged to offer 50 free e-commerce websites every week, ongoing.

More information, including T&Cs, additional charges and hosting plan fees, can be found at zeald.com/500-free-websites.html

Local businesses supporting each other

Willow Café (in Tawa Drive) was the first GEM website to go live.

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To read more about the free services and resources on offer go to the Business Initiatives page of businessnh.org.nz

M E M B E R S ’ N E WS

Foundation Coffee’s 12,000 free “Coffee for Carers” The Piermark Drive-based coffee specialists helped NZ’s frontline healthcare workers enjoy a well-deserved hot drink during lockdown.

The team at Foundation Coffee came up with the idea of Coffee for Carers when they heard that hospital canteens were closed for isolation purposes, leaving the emergency department health staff nowhere to go for their much-needed cups of coffee or hot chocolate.

CEO Jamie Galloway explains, “We could see how much pressure the frontline hospital workers were under [so] we rang a couple of hospitals and offered our services. It’s awesome to think that we provided more than 12,000 drinks.”

Foundation Coffee installed two of their machines at Waitakere and North Shore hospitals. The team also ensured that these were always stocked with the coffee, hot chocolate and milk needed to keep the hospital staff going 24/7.

Marja Peters, charge nurse manager in the Waitakere Hospital Emergency Department,

described it as “a wonderful gesture”.

Speaking when New Zealand was at Alert Level 4, she said, “The coffee machine has quickly become the staff’s new best friend,

especially with the Waitakere Hospital coffee shop closed until further notice. We have rarely received such a kind and timely gift.

This is so much appreciated by our team.”

Start selling online… Swiftly!

Almost 1,000 Kiwis participated in April’s Hack the Crisis NZ virtual hackathon. Swiftly is one of the 48-hour innovation challenge’s success stories.

Swiftly is one of BNH’s newest members, with its head office at The Crate on Constellation Drive. Matt Weston, Walter Lim and Will Seagar created the platform to help small businesses get online as quickly and easily as possible. In fact, they reckon business owners should be able to set up their own store and have it online in under 15 minutes! And, the service is free.

Matt explains, “Once you’re signed up, you can share your store link with your customers and let them order online for click and collect or delivery without worrying about any of the technical stuff to make it work.”

At the time of writing, Swiftly has almost 600 stores, and has seen more than $100,000 in transactions. Small businesses from a myriad of sectors are jumping onto the platform,

Matt Weston

Walter Lim

including bakeries, jewellers, garden centres, lawyers, massage therapists, and artists.

To learn more, go to swiftly.nz

Will Seagar

...business owners should be able to set up their own store and have it online in under 15 minutes!

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T RA N S P O RT

North Harbour route optimisation Sarah de Zwart is BNH’s transport and relationship manager. As part of her regular contact with Auckland Transport (AT), she provides details of traffic area hotspots and members’ concerns. What follows is a summary of Sarah’s recent report and AT’s responses.

East Coast Road and Constellation Drive intersection

Ramp Road and Sunset Road intersection

Left-turning vehicles from Constellation onto East Coast Road are unable to move left into the double lanes ahead due to the derelict section of T2 lane. This causes unnecessary queues behind rightturning traffic onto East Coast Road from Constellation.

Left-turning vehicles are held up in the build-up of vehicles turning right. Cars are resorting to turning left and performing U-turns.

Recommendation: Change the T2 section of Constellation from Apollo Drive to East Coast Road into a clearway.

Recommendation: Clearway on the eastern side from 3.00 pm (rather than 4.00 pm).

Review: Roundabout on the corner of Ramp, Sunset and Sycamore Roads.

AT’s response

AT’s response

• The guiding principle for Constellation Drive is people movement, which justifies the rationale for the Special Vehicle Lane (T2 in this case).

• There is high frequency of buses using this corridor, especially during peak periods.

• Reverting down to a clearway /general traffic lane would be going against the guiding principle. Notwithstanding this, we have passed your concerns on to ATOC (Auckland Transport Operations Centre) to investigate if any changes can be made with respect to signal phasing and timing.

• There is an existing proposal to signalise this intersection.

During investigation we came across some geotechnical issues that needed further investigation. We are waiting on the final outcome of the geotechnical investigation before we can make any improvements.

BNH’s comments to AT

BNH’s Response We have asked to re-review, reminding AT that the T2 does not continue onto East Coast Road, therefore from Apollo Drive it is rendered obsolete.

Bush Road, turning left onto Albany Expressway Left-turning vehicles are stuck behind the straight-ahead and rightturning vehicles.

BNH’s comments to AT Recommendation: Start the divide earlier for the left lane by utilising the spare land.

Review: The traffic signal lights for the intersection with right-turning and straight-ahead traffic.

AT’s response

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BNH’s comments to AT

Constellation Drive and Parkway Drive intersection (eastern end) Right-turning traffic is unable to move onto the busy arterial route as cars are either moving too fast to merge or ignore the keep clear road markings when the traffic is queueing.

BNH’s comments to AT Recommendation: Add cross-hatching road marking.

Review: The intersection.

AT’s response • Merit in progressing this further. Your request has been passed onto Traffic Engineering for further investigation.

T2 lane usage across the North Harbour district

• The topography of Bush Road is not conducive to utilising the adjacent spare land for additional carriageway, in this case the left-turn lane.

• In addition to retaining walls, service and light pole relocations, significant geotechnical testing will also need to be undertaken to confirm feasibility of this option.

• Hence, because of the associated costs and uncertainties, this would not be a typical “low cost, low risk” intervention funded by the Optimisation programme.

Increased driver knowledge of the T2 lanes. Drivers are unsure when they can use the lanes, which causes unnecessary erratic lane changing.

BNH’s Response

AT’s response

We have requested the recommended team within AT to review this hot spot.

• We will see how this can be internally reviewed by other teams as it involves media promotion.

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BNH’s comments to AT Recommendation: A dual targeted approach with:

• Driver education with temporary street signage to remind drivers they can use the lanes outside the recorded hours.

• Media promotion.

T RA N S P O RT

Apollo Drive, Omega Street, Corinthian Drive Due to the area being at full occupational capacity, combined with high congestion, BNH has safety concerns for our members exiting their premises. This is due to cars parking over driveways, thereby limiting visibility and access. In addition to the ongoing speeding concerns.

BNH’s comments to AT Recommendation: Implementation of speed reduction techniques (speed humps or similar).

Recommendation: Hockey stick road markings on the designated streets.

Good news!

We are pleased to announce from BNH’s2018 request for AT to review the Parkway Drive/Ramp Road intersection, that works will be completed between June and August 2020. These include increased berm and a pedestrian refuge for safer crossing.

Do you have a concern about a local traffic area hotspot?

Please contact sarah@businessnh.org.nz with details of other North Harbour locations you would like investigated.

AT’s response • Passed onto Traffic Engineering for further investigation.

Constellation Drive between Ascension Place and Apollo Drive The two streets are just over 100 metres apart. In peak times, members report that it is hard to pull out from Ascension into the single lane on Constellation and then move back again to turn left onto Apollo.

BNH’s comments to AT Recommendation: Removal of the T2 lane.

Alternatively, exempt ticketing for the vehicles pulling out of Ascension Place and indicating to turn left into Apollo.

AT’s response • This request is still to be reviewed by AT.

Rose Garden Apartments, Don McKinnon Drive Dual carriageway confusion with vehicles turning right onto a one-way road.

BNH’s comments to AT

Cyclists enjoy quieter roads During Alert Levels 4 and Level 3, many Kiwis took advantage of the reduced traffic to dig out their bicycles and pedal around the block for their daily dose of fresh air. Increased footpath and cycle lane width is likely to continue to be reviewed if working patterns change and cycling retains its current popularity as a mode of transport.

As well as sharing maps of Auckland’s cycleways, rides and shared paths, AT’s website also has some advice about choosing a bike, and various security and storage tips, including how to find and record your bike’s security number.

Visit at.govt.nz/cycling-walking/advice-support to learn more.

NZTA: Northern Corridor Improvement

Recommendation: Better signage.

AT’s response • Merit in progressing this further. Your request has been passed onto Traffic Engineering for further investigation.

Update: This has now been completed.

60-80 Paul Matthews Road Members have expressed safety concerns when crossing the busy road.

BNH’s comments to AT Recommendation: Pedestrian refuge or crossing (working in with the Northern Corridor Improvement developments).

AT’s response • Thanks for your feedback on this. We have added this to our list of projects for on-site observations once the lockdown has been lifted. Following on-site observations, a decision will be made regarding progressing this project further.

Work has started to extend Paul Matthews Road and shift it to join a new Caribbean Drive intersection. A shared walking and cycling path will also be constructed along the new section of the road.

Construction will take place in stages during the day and sometimes at night, and people will notice some changes to the Caribbean Drive intersection. The upgraded intersection and new Paul Matthews Road are on track to be mostly completed by the end of the year.

Then in early 2021, work will start on the westbound on-ramp and all eastbound traffic will move on to a new eastbound off-ramp.

The aim of this work is to provide better connections to SH1 and SH18 and help to improve journey times in the area.

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R E S P O N D I N G TO CO V I D -19

Responding to COVID-19 Working together to prosper and thrive

I’m focusing on what’s i my contro I’m feeling joy & hope I feel more connected to my loved ones I’m helping where I can

Before, during and after lockdown, BNH has done its utmost to share reliable advice and support with our members.

This issue of FYI is no exception, which is why our editor approached several key industry leaders to share their insights.

Amongst the abundance of practical information on BNH’s website’s dedicated COVID-19 section, are video interviews with local representatives from other sectors. These experts have provided updates here too.

To view the original videos, and for many more online resources, visit businessnh.org.nz

The view from the Manufacturing sector Catherine Beard is the executive director of ManufacturingNZ COVID-19 has been hugely disruptive to the manufacturing sector. Some manufacturers were deemed essential services (food and beverage manufacturing or those making essential service products or components) but the vast majority of manufacturers were in complete lockdown in the Alert Level 4 response. Even at Alert Level 3, productivity will have been well below normal with businesses having to operate in a COVID-safe way. Those that were exporting were worried

THE LOCAL VIEW Brownwen Newcombe, Director, Davenports Harbour Lawyers We at Davenports are happy to be back at our Albany premises and be able to meet clients face-to-face again. We operated during Alert Levels 4 and 3 remotely, thanks to our excellent technology set-up and our adaptable and flexible team and clients.

COVID-19 has had an enormous impact on New Zealanders. We have been involved

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about losing customers in overseas markets and being replaced by manufacturers in countries where more business was allowed to continue. In addition there was a lot of supply chain disruption to get imports in the country and exports out of the country, particularly when China was in full lockdown mode.

As we move past flattening the virus and towards recovery, there will be many lessons learned.

In the short term, the focus will be on cash flow and getting new orders – and that could involve different ways of working. Many businesses will be wanting a digital channel to customers they may not have previously needed.

Businesses will be looking at their supply chain resilience, from inventory levels to logistics to diversity of suppliers, etc.

Manufacturers may decide to on-shore

in helping employers understand their rights and obligations during the lockdown period, as well as helping business owners shape their business to ensure it can survive and then thrive in the “new world”.

Indeed, as an employment law specialist myself, at the moment much of my work is assisting employers navigate the pandemic crisis, deal promptly with employees who are underperforming, and right-sizing and rightshaping their businesses to be able to get through this crisis intact.

more of their activity and they will be looking for new income streams (selling services alongside product). They will be looking at all their processes and aiming to be more productive, speeding up prototyping and being more agile. Hopefully they will continue to invest in R&D, and that might be right across their organisation, including business processes.

Those that survive this pandemic will be more robust, nimble and innovative than they have ever been, and will probably be more collaborative with other businesses as well.

The BusinessNZ network and ExportNZ are running a wide range of webinars for members on how to rebuild business and exports, with expert speakers on a range of topics.

FInd out more at businessnz.org.nz

Our commercial team has been busy helping resolve landlord and tenant issues as well as those now looking to sell (or indeed buy) businesses. Our asset planning and trusts team has been able to help New Zealanders ensure that their assets are protected and that they have wills and enduring powers of attorney in place. We also have our residential conveyancing team which has worked hard to make settlements happen for people, despite the barriers that arose during lockdown.

I’m lim my so media & consum

I’m less stressed & sleeping better

R E S P O N D I N G TO CO V I D -19

THE LOCAL VIEW Dave Wilson, General Manager, iT360

The Three Stages of Pandemic Response

I have confidence in my resilience & strength

g in ol

GROWTH

I’m appreciating I’m looking ahead to how what I’m gaining I want to live after this from this time at home I’m savouring the little things

I feel calmer

I’m making a new routine

I’m living more in the present miting I’m valuing moment I’m learning to let go ocial my time & news of what I can’t control outdoors I can be mption patient & I’m getting kind with I’m glued to the to grips myself & news & social media with tech others I’m scared of I’m unproductive to see my loved ones the unknown & and lethargic online uncertainty

ACCEPTANCE

SURVIVAL I’m just trying to get through the day I feel powerless & sad

How good is it to be able to leave the house again, visit friends and family and enjoy our great local cafés and restaurants?

Many countries are starting to reopen and the path towards the “new normal” is becoming clearer for many of us. It’s also bringing a lot of questions and concerns about how we as businesses operate safely, how to interpret and apply new standards around workplace health and safety, and many more.

In talking with my two siblings and their families that live in the USA, it makes me extremely grateful and proud of the team of 5 million here who worked so hard to get us to this point relatively quickly in the scheme of things.

Lockdown has been full on for the team at iT360. When the COVID-19 pandemic started, we were fully focused on helping our customers transition to remote working models, ensuring that we were securing these environments, and providing education on

tools like Microsoft Teams and other remote working tools. Now, we are looking ahead at how to help businesses in this next phase.

For a lot of people, when it comes to technology, the next steps will be uncovering answers to the question of: how can we drive a competitive advantage in this modern economy? Can we continue to drive efficiency and gain productivity without compromising cyber security and adding risks?

As an example, we for one are planning to be 80 per cent remote for the foreseeable future. While we have a great office space like a lot of businesses, the remote working model has simply worked really well for us and increased our overall productivity, so we have no interest in going back to being 100 per cent office based. This comes with new challenges, such as remote working cyber security, data security, policies and procedures, applications, remote access and hardware solutions to maximise this for your teams.

With this in mind, we have created a free online assessment: iT360.co.nz/next-steps

I’m angry with other people

I’m worried about everything

m co or. an e r t e iell abr ©g

How to support your local independent businesses BUY A GIFT CARD/VOUCHER Buy a gift card or voucher from a shop or a restaurant to use at a later date

The view from the Retail sector

BE KIND Understand that processes may have to change. Try to be patient and tolerant.

Greg Harford is CEO of Retail NZ COVID-19 has caused devastation in the New Zealand retail sector. We started to see sales drop substantially in February, and then collapse in March as the lockdown kicked in.

Most retailers were unable to trade at all during the lockdown period, and revenues across the sector were down by about 80 per cent - tough going for an industry where the average net margin is just 3.6 per cent.

The recovery has started with the move to Alert Level 2, but it is going to be a long and slow recovery for the retail sector. Retail NZ expects consumer spending will be depressed for some time, and this will negatively impact retailers over the coming months and possibly years. We will likely see a number of retail firms cease trading, so retailers will need to be focused on playing the long game, delivering outstanding customer experiences, and be nimble enough to keep up with changing consumer demands.

Customers are wanting to #shoplocal and support local businesses. This creates a big opportunity for firms to build on their local credentials to expand their customer base both in-store and online.

The rise of online sales has been an ongoing trend for years, but we have seen a

SHOP ONLINE Purchase a product on the internet if a local business has an online shop FOLLOW, LIKE & SHARE Follow local businesses on social media, spread the love via social media with family & friends

#shoplocal #supportlocal

LEAVE A REVIEW Reviews not only boost credibility but also improve digital presence especially on Google

big jump towards more e-commerce during the lockdown, and it is likely that this will continue in the post-COVID world. Customers appreciate the convenience and ability of shopping anywhere 24/7 and having goods delivered for them. Retailers will be looking to improve their e-commerce and fulfilment offerings, as well as reviewing their in-store offerings to be differentiating themselves and making sure they are delivering great value for products and great service.

New Zealand is well-regarded internationally, and goods that are made in (or purchased

from) New Zealand often carry a special cachet for people abroad. E-commerce offers a great opportunity for local retailers to deliver great experiences and expand their customer base from the Shore right down to Dunedin, and internationally into Asia, the Americas and Europe.

Retail NZ has a number of resources on its website, including a series of free webinars.

Visit retail.kiwi for more info J U N E 2020 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

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R E S P O N D I N G TO CO V I D -19

THE LOCAL VIEW Gina Cook, Partner, Business Advisory Services, BDO

The view from the Hospitality sector Julie White is the chief executive of Hospitality New Zealand The hospitality industry has a vital place at the heart of New Zealand communities and economy. COVID-19 has taken an incredible toll and many hospitality businesses will not survive. But we are resilient and creative, and without a doubt, our industry will continue to reinvent itself.

COVID-19 has delivered the worst hit in living memory to hospitality — bars, cafés restaurants, casinos and accommodation businesses that bring vitality to our towns and cities, employ 170,000 people across New Zealand, and put billions of dollars into the economy.

Statistics New Zealand data shows the cold reality: hospitality spending in April was down 95 per cent ($814 million) compared with April 2019.

The Government has offered limited support. Its broad response to business recovery offers nothing targeted for the sector that has taken some of the most sustained

THE LOCAL VIEW Neil Craigen, Regional Manager, Auckland Business | Kiwibank As we move through Alert Level 2, we are starting to see early signs of strain, and, unfortunately, we expect to see this pain increase over the next few months as some small businesses struggle to make payments. So, right now, much of our time is spent providing facilities to help keep our clients’ cashflow positive and position them for the future.

We haven’t had huge numbers of clients taking up the business finance guarantee

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It’s good to be back out in public again and enjoying different scenery rather than the view of my neighbour’s fence from my home office. And, as much as I love my family, I am enjoying having other people to see!

While we have all had our own personal journeys during this time, coming out of lockdown has been (and will continue to be) a challenging time for all of our businesses as we get used to the new “normal” – whatever that is! For a while it will be business as unusual.

For most, lockdown was a time for crisis management – applying for wage subsidies, arrangements with banks, IRD, landlords, etc.

As we transition to a new normal, we need to adjust and pivot our businesses in new ways to ensure our recovery and survival.

We will continue to focus on how we can create special occasions, experiences and memories for our customers. and crippling impacts alongside our sistersector tourism.

But our sector matters. New Zealanders love to get out, be with friends and family and experience local venues — for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, Friday night drinks or watching the rugby on the weekend. And, so do visitors. Our venues are a critical part of a New Zealand holiday, and of major international events such as the Rugby World Cup. So, where to from here?

We will keep calling on the Government for greater support for the sector. And we will continue to look out for each other. In late May the Hospitality Industry Trust announced

loan scheme. They’re telling us that they don’t want to borrow more money and introduce debt unnecessarily into the business. Instead they’re adjusting their business structure – cutting staff, wages and expenses. When making these kinds of decision it’s important that you talk not just to your bank, but to your other trusted professionals – such as your accountant and lawyer – too. This “three-way” approach is crucial in order to truly understand a business’ viability and to make sure you have a solid structure and plan in place.

I’ve been impressed by the ingenuity and creativity of some clients. For example, a company that supplied the hospitality industry

So how do we do this?

What worked before is unlikely to work now. We need to reinvent and adapt, and do it quickly.

As businesses we need to scrutinise every area of our operations to identify risks, opportunities, re-imagine every part of our business and develop actions required to ensure our business can continue to be profitable, and generate the required cashflow to support our goals and dreams.

I say “we” because we are all in this boat together. At BDO we have been working tirelessly over the past two months to support our clients, and businesses in general. We are not immune and are working through this - just like you.

If your business needs help through this recovery phase, reach out to your trusted advisors, not least to your accountant.

Together, using this combined expertise, you can put the most appropriate plan in place for your business.

a $1.37 million package for key industry associations to keep helping our members to respond and adapt.

Our hospitality businesses will continue to dig deep and try new things. That could mean more venues that were traditionally dine-in offering takeaway and deliveries, and more use of technology — menu apps that enable customers to sit down, place their order, receive their meal and pay without being served might become commonplace. Buffets will be a distant memory. Sadly, the hard fact is that jobs may be lost along the way.

However we evolve, customer service remains front and centre. We will continue to focus on how we can create special occasions, experiences and memories for our customers.

And we are relying on New Zealanders to support us. New Zealanders who have explored the world but not yet visited their own backyard have an opportunity now to get out and explore their own towns, cities, regions, and country.

We want to continue to be here for our team of 5 million, and need our team to continue to be here for us.

partnered with an online retailer to sell produce online. He went from zero to $60,000 worth of transactions almost instantly! I think this kind of innovation, along with Kiwis’ “support local” mindset, is going to be critical. If you’re a leftbrain (logical, analytical) thinker get together with a right-brain (entrepreneurial, intuitive) thinker so that you can both leverage off each other’s capabilities and strengths.

And keep those communication channels open. We all move through the so-called “change curve” at different rates, but by talking and sharing, bouncing ideas around, not being afraid to ask for support, that’s how we can help and find opportunities for each other.

R E S P O N D I N G TO CO V I D -19

No longer just Eliminate, Isolate, Minimise Eliminate

The view from the Logistics sector Keith Robinson is the president of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport

Workplace traffic management Right now, businesses may well be reassessing their warehousing or goods in/out set up, and potentially seeking to downsize or collaborate in a shared space.

Despite the number of deaths and injuries in New Zealand and Australia that relate to “traffic management”, the WorkSafe NZ website still contains a factsheet that has not been updated since the Health and Safety At Work Act 2015 came into force. They are however, working on it – as they are working on enforcing it!

According to WorkSafe NZ, traffic management was a factor in 14 per cent of fatal work-related vehicle accidents between 2013 and 2017; predominately in relation to pedestrians entering into vehicle transit areas and the interaction of pedestrians and mobile plant.

We are all familiar with the “Hierarchy of Controls” as detailed in the Workplace Management Regulations 2016. The pyramid is inverted for a reason: we should look to eliminate hazards rather than substitute – and clearly isolation and engineering controls are much better than administrative or steelcapped shoes…

According to the HSWA 2015, “traffic” falls into the category of “mobile plant”. This means that we must have evidence that the equipment is safe to use and that users are currently competent to use the equipment (e.g., are suitably trained/supervised and are not overly fatigued).

Clearly the best time to practise good health and safety management is in design. In other words, if we can eliminate hazards at the outset, we won’t have to deal with them throughout the life of that system.

Substitute with a lesser risk PCBUs must identify hazards that could give rise to reasonably forseeable risks

If risk still remains after using the four controls, administrative and PPE controls can be used

Isolate

Engineering Controls

Administration

The control must be effective AND revised to ensure that it remains effective

Changes in the workplace or new hazards need to be managed in the same way

PPE

Clearly the best time to practise good health and safety management is in design.

In other words, if we can eliminate hazards at the outset, we won’t have to deal with them throughout the life of that system. Work area zones, pedestrian zones, site one-way systems and standardisation of processes can play a big part in the elimination of traffic issues.

The trouble is that most organisations focus on administrative and PPE controls.

Examples of the areas to consider are: • Vehicle/truck access to site • Truck loading zones

THE LOCAL VIEW Sian Jaquet, Executive Coach When there is fear for your very survival, your core beliefs and values are the fundamental tools to make sense of unprecedented times.

The past few months have been a challenging time for anyone in a leadership position.

I’m no exception; the past weeks were filled with unexpected learning opportunities and some dark hours of soul searching as I managed my own fear. I’m not a stranger to the concept of survival or fear. The coronavirus crisis wasn’t my first rodeo. I have pivoted many times before, both personally and professionally.

Five days before immigrating to New Zealand 20 years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer. My husband and children immigrated without me, whilst I underwent treatment. I

• Safe access for driver from vehicle to office • Safe zones for drivers when loading • Internal walkways • Pathways from emergency doors to evacuation points On 23rd June at 10.00am there is a free on-line tutorial on the subject of Traffic Management.

For an invitation to attend please email keith@dharmaadvisory.com

arrived in Auckland five months later, somewhat physically and emotionally tattered and torn.

I needed to build a new life and live in a different way. Understanding how my beliefs and values made up the sum of my parts was fundamental in reinventing my future and taking responsibility for my life.

When my values are in alignment with my purpose, regardless of my fears, I will survive and I will be safe.

When working with several companies during the crisis both here and overseas, it is my observation that the leaders who live and work in a values-led way are by far the most emotionally resilient. They are willing and able to focus on what’s needed for them, their families and the company they own or work for.

To survive this unprecedented time, ensure you have taken time to review who you are as a leader and if your values and your beliefs are serving you well.

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P RO F E SS I O N A L D E V E LO PM E N T : D R I V E L I N E F L E E T

The time to focus on cash is now!

Over the past few weeks, we have been contacting our existing clients as a direct response to the COVID-19 crisis. We have been working closely with them to put together, not only some relief packages to get them through the next three to six months, but also some great finance deals on new and, more interestingly, second-hand cars including ex-lease and ex-rentals.

“Cash is king” at the moment, with everyone’s main concerns being: how do we preserve, protect and manage cash flow better? There is no more appropriate time than now to review how we manage a fleet going forward.

A great example of this is the question around upgrading a vehicle with a “new vs second-hand option”. Enquiries on secondhand leasing are up over 400 per cent in the last few weeks. With more than 40,000 rental vehicles hitting the market soon, along with the normal run of ex-lease vehicles coming on line each month, second-hand vehicles present some excellent savings, not only with finance or lease costs but also fringe benefit tax (FBT) savings which are often overlooked.

Call the team at Driveline for some great ideas and initiatives that the team have been working on with our clients. Our amazing

Driveline directors, Lance Manins and Paul Tobin

“Cash is king” at the moment, with everyone’s main concerns being: how do we preserve, protect and manage cash flow better?

bunch of consultants will point you in the right direction.

Driveline offers New Zealanders smart, customised approaches to vehicle sourcing, leasing and finance. Covering everything you need, we were formed in 2001 to provide a complete vehicle supply and finance service for our customers – from establishing requirements to sourcing the perfect commercial or private vehicle, fleet, trucks, heavy equipment or capital equipment, whether new or used, and we can organise the accessories, fit-outs, sign-writing, warranties and financing.

Not affiliated with any car manufacturers, Driveline’s only obligation is to you, the customer.

This means that, unlike car dealerships or big financing companies, we are never locked in to one specific make, model or payment plan.

The client’s needs always dictate the final result. Now that’s refreshing!

With a focus on individual clients and the small-to-medium business market (one to 60 vehicle fleets), Driveline provides expertise to organisations and people who may not have the experience or in-house fleet management resources.

We give you complete confidence in financing your next vehicle, with independent and expert advice and flexible finance packages.

Our experienced consultants can help you figure out what’s the best vehicle for you. They go to market to negotiate the best deal for that vehicle and finally they work through the right finance option for you and your business.

0800 275 374 www.driveline.co.nz 18

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P RO F E SS I O N A L D E V E LO PM E N T : MA AT G RO U P

Maat Group Investing in a Changing Environment No one who has been through this catastrophic period in the world’s history will forget the effects of COVID-19.

In New Zealand, we have experienced the social and economic distress. However, we have averted the worst for now through our trust in the leadership of our country.

Adversity is the mother of enterprise.

Following these words, the New Zealand economy is poised to enter a new wave of invention and ingenuity.

No one who has been through this catastrophic period in the world’s history will forget the effects of COVID-19. In New Zealand, we have experienced the social and economic distress. However, we have averted the worst for now through our trust in the leadership of our country.

We in New Zealand are fortunate. We live in a small country with a small population and are geographically isolated from the rest of the world. We don’t have the big volatility swings in our economy like larger countries but we do thirst for the big stage through innovation, reliability, hard work and individual independence. This is a strength of our people. We are like chameleons, we adapt quickly to the environment we are in.

I have been fortunate (or unfortunate) to have witnessed enormous economic downturns in the world economies including the energy crisis of 1974 and the financial crises of 1987 and 2007/08. I also recall the more regional financial crises such as those of the UK in 1990/91; the Asian crisis in 1997 and the US economic downturn of the early 2000s. We were also brought up to have an understanding of the hardship and distress caused by the Great Depression in the early 1930s and the trying economic times during the War. We survived these downturns.

Many of the financial crises have been fuelled by personal greed and deception. In 1987 it was common for small syndicates to play the share market instead of reading the sports pages first! Every day we would see

the share price of prominent New Zealand companies rise in value. The strategies of such companies as Brierley Investments, Equiticorp, Chase Corporation, Goldcorp, Judge Corporation and Michael Fay’s Capital Markets were continually in the news. They collapsed through arrogance and greed. Goldcorp used to ring me on a Friday to entice me to purchase gold because it would go up in price by Monday. I never did buy. When the crash happened, there was no gold in the vault. Investors need to be wary of any company with “Corp” in its name.

The Global Financial Crisis (GFC) of 2007-2008 was the result of similar greed and deception. The collapse of 40 finance

Neil Tuffin

companies was distressing for many investors as they had trusted these companies with their funds, but those companies lent the money at a premium to borrowers who the investor didn’t know. It also taught me to be very wary of fund managers bundling properties together into funds, which proved to be more for their benefit than for the investors.

It was the impact of the GFC which caused us to establish Maat (the Egyptian Goddess of Truth, Justice and Balance) in late 2009.

Our goal is to offer investments in large, stand-alone commercial properties based on the principle of being quality properties, which have quality tenants and which provide investors’ with satisfactory returns plus, most importantly, provides investors with the knowledge and control of what they are investing in. We are currently in the process of raising capital for the purchase of a central Christchurch office property in multiples of $25,000 parcels. This offer presents an opportunity for investors to become aware of our way of presenting investing opportunities.

We have built up years of experience and we want to share that with everyone. Just contact either Jodi at our office on 09 414 6078, or myself, directly, on 021 481 441 to request our time to meet with you to discuss our investment opportunities.

Neil Tuffin, Director (021) 481 441 ntuffin@maat.co.nz Office (09) 414 6078 info@maat.co.nz www.maat.co.nz J U N E 2020 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

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P RO F E SS I O N A L D E V E LO PM E N T : G I LT RA P N O RT H S H O R E

Driving the North Shore

Grand openings and launch events are a regular occurrence at car dealerships. After all, “shiny and new” is at the heart of the automotive world. But opening the showroom doors at Giltrap North Shore after the lockdown felt better than any glittering occasion, I’ve ever been part of.

I guess Joni Mitchell summed it up best: “You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone.”

Our team all missed being part of the North Shore, and the “busyness of business” on Wairau Road. That said, our service team deserve a tremendous amount of credit for the work they did to keep essential service vehicles on the roads throughout the lockdown.

We are proud to be New Zealand owned, proud to represent Kia and Holden, and especially proud to be part of the North Shore. The North Shore is our community, and we are doing everything we can to provide a safe environment for anyone visiting our dealership. We are also offering contactless test drives, and our team can show customers around cars with video calls.

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What hasn’t changed is our dedication to keeping the North Shore moving. We are an award-winning dealership, specialising in Holden and Kia, with a complete range of new and used vehicles. We also provide genuine parts and an award-winning service department.

2020 had already delivered another new normal for us when Holden announced it

and servicing, they will also honour all existing warranties, guarantees and free scheduled service offers. In other words, Holden is standing by their cars, and so are we. There is another upside for customers, with Holden offering unprecedented discounts across a range that I genuinely believe is their best.

Vehicles like the new Colorado, Acadia, Trailblazer and Equinox are all impressive cars…

I don’t know a single person who hasn’t returned with a giant grin on their face after a drive in the Stinger (surely the coolest car badge around!) would cease production. As a passionate Holden dealership, it was tough news to take.

Still, at the same time, General Motors made an assurance that they would be supporting all Holden vehicles for at least 10 years.

Along with call centre support, spare parts

and right now they are impressively priced.

In my early days in the automotive industry, I wouldn’t have predicted Holden to have stopped producing cars in 2020. Embarrassingly, I will admit that I would not have picked Kia to have become such an automotive powerhouse. I don’t know a single person who hasn’t returned with a giant grin on their face after a drive in the Stinger (surely the coolest car badge around!) The same goes for the way those new to Kia are left wholly impressed with the value, quality and smart design of top sellers like the Seltos and Sorento. Along with the full range of new Kia models, we have a great selection of pre-owned cars.

Because we all live, work and play locally, we also know what drives the North Shore, and our friendly team are happy to help find the right car for you. If you are interested in looking at any vehicle or need more information for service or parts, we are always happy to help.

Phil Dixon General Manager Giltrap North Shore, 150 Wairau Road, Wairau Valley, Auckland 0627 Ph: (09) 444 8114 giltrapnorthshore.co.nz

CRIME PREVENTION

Tackling crime together A good news story!

Between January and March 2020, the North Harbour district was plagued by an offender who targeted primarily small businesses, cafés and the like. In late March, Waitemata East burglary team arrested a 36-year old male and charged him with 25 burglaries. He is currently before the courts.

There were a number of key elements that advanced our inquiries considerably. All of these are essential crime prevention activities that we discuss consistently: 1. Securing the premises and valuables 2. Alarm systems 3. CCTV capability 4. Advising the police promptly 5. Being aware of forensics

It is good practice for business owners to: • Make arrangements to either remove cash floats from premises overnight or have an appropriate way to secure the float on site. A safe is ideal.

• Install a monitored alarm system. This can be highly beneficial as the security company is a capable guardian in your absence. Ensuring it is monitored could provide our burglary team with good avenues of inquiry.

• Put in CCTV cameras on site. These were very important in our recent investigation, and not only captured the offender committing offences, but also linked him to other critical inquiries being made.

• Recognise the importance of forensics.

Examining each crime scene is imperative – indeed, it played a crucial part in this offender’s arrest. So, however tempted you are to clean up the mess left by a criminal, please don’t act until our scene of crimes officers’ have arrived and assessed the situation.

All of this should highlight how much damage just one offender can have on a community. But, if sound prevention activities are being implemented by everyone, these incidents can be reduced.

Ensuring that your premises is secure is critical, and so is understanding why other prevention activities work. The NZ Police website has a wealth of practical tips about how to protect your business. These cover such topics as: • Shop displays and layout for crime prevention • Position your cash register near the

entry and greet every customer as they come in.

• Use large mirrors to see every part of your store.

• Handling cash safely • Varying the banking time each day • Use adult staff to do the banking (preferably in pairs)

Make use of these resources!

Contacting Dave Loader at Business North Harbour to see how his initiatives can help you and your business, and getting to know your local community constable are also excellent steps in the right direction.

The strength in the Waitemata East community is the power in partnership, and acknowledging that we alone can’t make the community safer – it will be “Safer Communities Together”.

COVID-19 Alert Level 2 update With the move to Alert Level 2, all Waitemata East (North Shore) police stations are again open to the public. In common with other organisations, we have to follow correct social distancing protocols, which means that access to the buildings will be controlled. We ask you to please be patient.

We have all noticed the obvious increase in traffic and people out and about, and this also means a potential increase in people or vehicles seen acting suspiciously. Irrespective of what Alert Level we are in, NZ Police needs to hear from you. If you see something or someone acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, please contact us.

Senior Sergeant Scott Cunningham Area Youth & Communities Manager Waitemata East Area | Waitematā District 021 191 4421 scott.cunningham@police.govt.nz Waitemata East Area HQ, 52 Parkway Drive, Mairangi Bay, Auckland www.police.govt.nz J U N E 2020 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

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CO M M U N I T Y

The privilege of giving back to the community In 2011, as part of its commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), Crown Worldwide NZ asked employees to select a charity to support long-term. The Salvation Army was the overwhelming choice. “A lot of our people have connections to The Salvation Army. It has a strong sense of purpose and the Sallies know who they are,” comments Crown New Zealand’s country manager James Logan.

A lasting and meaningful partnership has been forged, to such an extent that Crown was awarded The Salvation Army’s prestigious “Valued Partner” accolade. There are currently fewer than 10 companies in New Zealand to have been recognised in this way. “This meant everything to us,” says James. “We feel so privileged to be involved in helping the community.”

He is a strong advocate for corporate citizenship, and says that “giving back” is in Crown’s DNA. “Giving back to the community is one of our founding principles, but it also makes great corporate sense because it gives people a sense of belonging – so there’s a real feel-good factor.”

Crown has approximately 60 staff at its base in Bush Road. Collaborating with other sites around the country, they have contributed to

James Logan

some extremely rewarding projects, including forming a “container army” to deliver more than $175,000 of products and services to the Cyclone Winston relief effort in Fiji, and creating A Big Sallies Surprise – an alliance with the New Zealand Breakers which raised more than 100,000 cans of food for the foodbanks. Crown was also the first Kiwi business to support the “Cherish a Child” sponsorship programme supporting children’s education in Fiji, Tonga and Samoa.

Moreover, since Crown is a relocation company, on moving day every customer receives a Salvation Army “Giving Back” carton. These can be filled with surplus non-perishable foods, books and DVDs. Crown’s operation crews seal these boxes in the home and deliver to the Sallies on the customer’s behalf. The company set a goal

of collecting 2,000 cartons per year and has actually exceeded this target every year since 2013. “We have discovered that The Salvation Army is held in very high esteem by many New Zealanders, and the generosity of our customers is amazing,” James affirms.

With sustainability being an increasingly important part of CSR, last year Crown and its furniture division FIL Furniture sponsored a complete office re-fit for The Salvation Army’s Northern Division offices, using only pre-loved, upcycled furniture. “What was really impressive was that the Sallies’ staff were thrilled with the upgrade not just because it was nice, but because they felt they could do better work for their people in the new environment,” James recalls. “I have tremendous respect for the work the Sallies do, and the caring attitude they have. We aspire to be that ourselves.”

Since 1883, The Salvation Army has fought poverty, and social and spiritual distress in New Zealand. The Sallies help more than 120,000 families and individuals in need each year, with budgeting advice, food and clothing assistance, life skills programmes and other comfort and support. Business partnerships are an important part of the organisation’s fundraising efforts. There are a number of ways that companies can support the Sallies’ work, including payroll giving, product donations, and sponsorship.

To find out more, visit salvationarmy.org.nz

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B N H N E WS

Welcome Nathan to the BNH team Lockdown aside, if you have phoned or visited BNH recently you may have noticed some extra youthful vitality around the place!

Nathan Murray is a Westlake Boys year 13 student who joined our team in February as part of the school’s Gateway programme. Gateway is a subject choice for year 13s (and, in special circumstances, year 12s may also be considered) to introduce students to the world of business with real placements.

While working alongside Peter Green, BNH’s marketing and events manager, Nathan has contributed a young person’s perspective and enthusiasm. He has competently completed the tasks assigned to him, learning the ins and outs of local business, and having to quickly adapt to the evolving COVID-19 situation.

“Nathan has been a pleasure to have in our office and it has been fantastic to involve him in some event planning meetings, copywriting, proofreading and general marketing tasks,” says Peter. “Having an extra set of hands in the office has definitely been appreciated by the entire team and we will continue to get Nathan more involved as his understanding of our business grows.”

Now that we are at Alert Level 2, we are delighted to have Nathan back with the team for one day a week.

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S U STA I N A B I L I T Y

Mushrooming popularity Polystyrene is having a calamitous effect on the environment. Made from petroleum, it is non-sustainable, non-renewable and not biodegradable. It can also be deadly when ingested by wildlife.

As part of its eco-efforts, Ikea has committed to using packaging made from fungi.

Mycelium is the fungi’s root structure which can bind with other organic materials, such as wood chips or agricultural waste like corn husks to form solid shapes. Consumers can toss the packaging onto their garden compost heap where it will break down within weeks.

Joanna Yarrow, head of sustainability for IKEA in the UK, says that “the great thing about mycelium is you can grow it into a mould that then fits exactly. You can create bespoke packaging.”

This form of mushroom packaging has been pioneered by Ecovative in New York.

Turning “the green menace” into plastic cups, plates and cutlery Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans describes the European green crab as “one of the 10 most unwanted species on the planet”. This invasive and resilient crustacean can wreak havoc on coastal environments, and females can release up to 185,000 eggs once or twice a year. They are voracious predators, devouring oysters, mussels, clams and juvenile crabs. The situation at one national park in Nova Scotia has become critical, and eradication is required to protect the delicate native eco-system.

Cutting food waste could help tackle climate change Finding smart ways to reduce food waste not only makes good financial sense, it could also help to tackle climate change. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that if food waste was a country it would be the third highest emitter of greenhouse gases after China and the USA. Growing, processing, packaging and transporting food all contributes to CO2 emissions.

And then after it has been thrown away, the food rots and releases more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

The average Kiwi family throws away three shopping trolleys of edible food every year.

Love Food Hate Waste NZ’s website is chockfull of practical ideas about how to reduce food waste, including how to shop seasonally, and recipes for leftovers like broccoli stems and citrus peels.

There is also a quiz to show in real terms how much money you could be wasting if food gets thrown in the bin.

To learn more, visit lovefoodhatewaste.co.nz or connect with the Facebook page @lovefoodhatewastenz 24

J U N E 2 02 0 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

Thanks to a chemist at McGill University in Montreal, this has become an opportunity to create an eco-friendly, biodegradable plastic – using the crabs’ shells. Parks Canada developed a precise technique to trap the crabs, allowing Associate Professor Audrey Moores and her team of scientists to harvest the crabs with the least disruption to the surrounding ecosystem.

The shells are then crushed and mixed with a special powder to extract a chemical called chitin. Previously, this has been extracted from shellfish and crab shells by using hydrochloric acid, and then adding other chemicals. Although the resulting plastic was biodegradable, chemically tinted wastewater was a by-product. Professor Moores’ new method is far less toxic.

“What we’re trying to think about is can we take this as a resource to make some material that a fishery can actually sell and value,” she says. “This project will not only develop a marine biodegradable plastic, but it will also enhance the recovery of deteriorated coastal ecosystems and provide a new industry to sustain coastal fishing communities.”

S U STA I N A B I L I T Y

EV luxury made of recycled bottles and reclaimed fishing nets Polestar has unveiled its aspirational Precept concept. The high-performance, technology-focused vehicle design company, which is partowned by Volvo, said that this car “previews future vehicles and shows how we will apply innovation to minimise our environmental impact.”

The Precept’s interior has been designed to “balance modern high-tech luxury with reduced environmental impact”. Bcomp’s flax-based composites for interior panels and seatbacks offer significant improvements over conventional materials, including an up to 50 per cent saving in weight and an up to 80 per cent reduction of plastic waste.

Seat surfaces are 3D-knitted from recycled PET bottles; bolsters and headrests are made from recycled cork vinyl; carpets are made from reclaimed fishing nets.

The Precept was due to be officially presented at the Geneva International Motor Show in March.

For now, it can be viewed online at polestar.com.

Harnessing the power of nature to absorb London’s pollution Earlier this year, three CityTrees with “the cleaning power of a small forest” were installed to help clean up the UK capital’s polluted air.

Two of the CityTrees are in Leytonstone in the borough of Waltham Forest where a climate emergency was declared in April 2019. “Waltham Forest Council has been tackling climate change for over a decade,” said Councillor Clyde Loakes. “The CityTrees are cutting-edge technology with biotech filters, using living plants and different types of mosses to capture toxins and remove pollutants from the surrounding environment to produce clean air. It’s the equivalent of planting 275 trees.”

Every CityTree has its own water tank, solar panels, batteries and built-in sensors so that they can operate in all weathers. The mosses can also store large amounts of water meaning that the surrounding air is kept cooler, which may be a welcome benefit for pedestrians in the summer heat.

J U N E 2020 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

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S U STA I N A B I L I T Y

Solar is the world’s fastest growing energy technology. In 2010, there were only 20 gigawatts of installed solar capacity in the world. By the end of 2019, this had increased to about 600 gigawatts. UK-based research company HIS Markit forecasts that, even with COVID-19 disruption, a further 105 gigawatts will be added this year.

On average, a commercial solar panel converts 17 to 19 per cent of the light energy that hits it into electricity, up from 12 per cent a decade ago. However, it is hoped that, combining six different materials – instead of only thin slices of silicon crystals – into a “multi-junction cell” could increase efficiency to as much as 47 per cent.

There is also a developing solar technology called “perovskites” (named for a 19th century Russian mineralogist, Count Lev Alekseevich von Perovski). Their crystal structure works

well at solar absorption even at lower lighting levels. Furthermore, only ultra-thin strips are required – just 300 nanometres (or 0.00003 cm) – so it can be easily applied as a coating to buildings, vehicles, phones or even clothing.

A Swiss start-up, Insolight, is taking a different approach, and embedding a grid of hexagonal lenses into a solar panel’s protective glass. The patented optical system concentrates light onto an array of tiny spacegrade multi-junction photovoltaic cells, and the pre-production module efficiency has been validated at 29 per cent. Furthermore, the cell array shifts a few millimetres horizontally during the day to track the sun.

“The architecture of these conventional concentrated photovoltaics is very costly.

What we’ve done is miniaturise the sun tracking mechanism and integrate it within the module,” says Insolight’s chief business

PEROVSKITE STRIP © SAULE TECHNOLOGIES

Are we on the cusp of a solar power efficiency breakthrough?

officer David Schuppisser. “We’ve done it in a cheaper way [that] you can deploy anywhere you can deploy a conventional solar panel,” he says. The company is now working on a module that is hoped to reach 32 per cent efficiency.

Packaging up sustainable fun and innovation Because cats can’t resist a box…

Some household items arrive in large amounts of cardboard and Samsung has come up with a nifty recycling idea. The packaging for its Lifestyle TVs can now be repurposed to make magazine racks,

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DVD bins, or cat houses. One side of the corrugated cardboard has a dot-matrix guide to help with cutting, folding and assembly. This is part of Samsung’s larger initiative to reduce its environmental footprint.

S U STA I N A B I L I T Y

Business North Harbour inorganics update

Advice and support from Sustainable Business Network

Unfortunately, the collections scheduled for 26th and 27th March could not be completed, due to the shutdown which came into effect on Wednesday 25th.

Abilities Group, BNH’s collection partner, acted quickly when Alert Level 4 was announced and e-mailed all the registered member companies on Tuesday 24th. The good news is that these collections can now go ahead in Alert Level 2.

Looking ahead, BNH plans to hold its second inorganics collection on 24th and 25th September. More details will follow nearer the time.

In her blog post Help grow a new regenerative economy, SBN’s CEO Rachel Brown observes of COVID-19 that: “New Zealand is faring well compared to many other nations, but the global impact is, and will continue to be, devastating. For very real reasons we have watched attention on climate, water and waste drop away. There is a danger of returning to the old habits of the ‘business as usual’ economy that was failing us before.

Environmental and social issues are still pressing for us all.

The financial impact is going to be deep, long and slow. The impact of job losses and reduction of wages is very real, as so much of our business community is simply not able to operate. The tourism and hospitality sectors have taken the biggest initial hit, but other parts of the economy are suffering too.

The negative social and economic impacts of ‘business as usual’ haven’t gone away. They were unsustainable then. They still are. So, as

we work our way through the Covid upheaval with short-term tactics we need to keep our eye on the long game.”

Right now, all of SBN’s resources are available for free download. These include insights on: • Smart office • Zero waste • Energy

• Transport

• Procurement A summary of these top tips is available as one PDF: Sustainable Business During the Recovery.

There is also a series of capability training workshops. Thus far, these have covered a wide range of topics such as behaviour change, packaging sustainability, and how to use your smartphone to create professional-looking video presentations.

For more information about these resources and events, visit sustainable.org.nz/ sustainable-business-and-covid-19

SERVICE STILL OPERATING AT ALL COVID-19 LEVELS

REDUCE LANDFILL & HELP SAVE THE PLANET

SIGN UP TO OUR FOOD WASTE SERVICE TODAY

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businessnh.org.nz/foodwastecollection

Contact Dave on 021 560 287 to find out more

AS I A N B U S I N E SS

As highlighted throughout this issue of FYI, businesses operating at Alert Level 2 need to follow strict health and safety protocols. Joy Yuan of Turner Hopkins has summarised the key points for North Harbour’s Chinese business community.

COVID 19 - 2级警报下的健康与安全措施 新西兰于5月13日11：59分将警戒等级下调 至2级。我们应该如何保障在安全的环境 下工作？特瑞律师事务所根据政府提供的 信息，为大家整理了2级警戒下，应该注意 的办公场所安全与健康操作准则：

二级下的7条黄金法则

1. 所有的企业都可以开始营业，仍鼓励采 用其他替代办公方式。

2. 与您的员工保持沟通，及时界定安全风 险。 3. 拒绝患有感冒或有类似症状的人到访。 4. 人与人之间保持一米的社交距离，零售 商店需要相距两米。

5. 保持密切联系人的到访记录（包括员工， 客户或任何第三方）。

6. 减少多人触碰同一物体表面，并定期对 物件进行消毒。 7. 洗手，洗手，还是洗手。

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工作场所执行准则 所有工作场所：

• 保留所有员工或外出员工的到访记录以 便追踪 • 尽量保证员工与员工间相距一米

• 如果是提供堂食的食品和饮品的店，则 必须遵循服务业板块的规则 零售商店：

• 零售商店必须确保客户保持两米间距， 但并且不要求保留客户来访记录。 • 如果业务本身必须要近距离接触，则必 须保持客户到访记录。 服务业

• 餐饮业可以在用餐时开放。

• 客人须被安排坐下，按组隔开一米并由 一个人服务。 • 每个客人都必须点餐并且每桌最多可接 纳10人。

• 店家必须书面保留到访员工和客人的联 系方式。

近距离服务（如美发师，美甲沙龙，按摩服 务，个人剪裁）

如果需要与客户进行身体接触以便提供服 务，则您必须： • 保留客户到访记录；以及

• 采取相应措施减少员工和客户的健康风 险。

我们同时也提醒各大业主，除了文中提到 安全措施外， 也需要和雇员保持良好的 沟通。任何的更改工作协议内容都需要得 到双方的同意以及用书面形式。 任何关于 雇佣问题，尤其涉及到重组以及解雇，都需 要有充分的理由，以及执行公证的程序。欢 迎和Turner Hopkins 律师行的华语律师Joy Yuan联系，取得专业的意见。

GOVERNMENT

Wage Subsidy Extension This is available to the same types of employers as the original scheme, including contractors, sole traders and self-employed workers, and applications open on 10th June 2020.

To be eligible, a business must have experienced a minimum 50 per cent decline in actual or predicted revenue over the 30-day period immediately prior to the date applying for the subsidy (versus the nearest comparable period last year). There are other calculations for organisations where this is not possible (e.g., new businesses).

Businesses should re-apply through Work and Income once their 12-week subsidy has ended. The weekly rates will be the same as under the initial Wage Subsidy, and will provide an eight-week payment per named employee as a lump sum. It must be used to pay employees’ wages, and receiving it does not change existing employment law obligations.

For more information, visit workandincome.govt.nz/ covid-19/wage-subsidy-extension/index.html

Budget 2020: support for SMEs $10 million has been allocated to provide grants and incentives to encourage e-commerce, train more digital advisors, and provide information and support for small businesses wishing to incorporate e-commerce into their business models.

This is supported by $12.5 million to progress the trans-Tasman e-invoicing scheme between New Zealand and Australia. This is designed to “make the business climate easier and fairer for small and medium enterprises during the recovery”.

Other support for small businesses from the the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund (CRRF) includes a $2.3 million investment to enable business.govt.nz to work with 200 partners to deliver tailored recovery guidance and advice to 600,000 small businesses. Resources will focus on how to: • Forecast and manage cash flow and adapt their businesses • Obtain finance to meet needs now and for future growth • Market their businesses here (especially tourism) and globally • Adopt new digital technology, including e-commerce and productivity enhancing tools • Deal with isolation and mental health issues

The 2020 Budget and the $50bn CRRF can be read in detail at beehive.govt.nz/feature/ budget-2020-rebuilding-together

Every effort has been made to ensure that information was correct at the time of publication. Please check business.govt.nz/covid-19 for the most up-to-date announcements.

Golden rules for business at Alert Level 2 Alert Level 2 is focused on “play it safe”. All businesses should follow seven basic rules: • Be open for business, if you can do so safely. Alternative ways of working are still encouraged where possible.

• Talk with your workers to identify risks and ways to manage them.

• Ask everyone – workers, contractors and customers – with cold or flu-like symptoms to stay away from your premises.

• Keep groups of customers at least one metre apart, or two metres for retail businesses.

• Keep contact-tracing records of anyone who will have close interaction (workers, contractors or customers). Retail businesses are not required to keep contact tracing records for customers.

• Reduce the number of shared surfaces, and regularly disinfect them.

• Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands.

There are also additional guidelines for the retail and hospitality sectors.

These can all be read in full at business.govt.nz/covid-19/ workplace-operations-covid-19-alert-levels

Food Safety Information Bylaw 2020

Whakapai Kai 2020 Following a public consultation, this replaces the Food Safety Bylaw 2013. It has been drawn up to better protect public health from food-borne illness by clarifying the existing rules for the display of food grades (food safety information certificates).

Most Auckland restaurants, cafés and takeaways must display a food grade, and the bylaw states the preferred locations for these at the food business’ premises. These guidelines came into effect on 23rd May. The second part of the bylaw has been deferred until 31st December (in recognition of the significant impact that COVID-19 has had on the hospitality sector). From this date, the food grade will also need to be displayed on any digital platforms that the business controls.

This would include the company’s: • Website • Social media accounts • Mobile app

The bylaw can be read and downloaded from aucklandcouncil.govt.nz J U N E 2020 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

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P RO P E RT Y M AT T E R S

Why the office is far from obsolete After what has been an extraordinary few months, many of us are now reflecting on what working from home has been like.

A research study from the University of Otago based on people working from home during the pandemic shows 73 per cent were at least as productive as when they were in the office, and 89 per cent responded that they would like to continue, at least some of the time. Interestingly, however, only 17 per cent responded that they had all the correct resources from their employer to undertake their work correctly.

There has certainly been a lot of media attention that employees would rather remain at home, thus removing daily commuting (and Auckland traffic). Of course, there are many positives and I am reminded of the GFC of 2007-2008 when there was much talk from business owners about working from home and saving costs. Yes, some businesses did take that course of action, but, a few years later, many came back to relocate to an office.

People need appreciation, recognition and gratitude to be motivated. In the office you can have fluid discussions, listen to feedback and share ideas.

Social interaction is one of our fundamental needs. According to Aristotle, “Man is by nature a social animal”; we naturally seek the companionship of others as part of our wellbeing. The gradual switch to open plan office areas encouraged interaction and “brain storming” with colleagues, sharing information, mentoring and collaboration. People need appreciation, recognition and gratitude to be motivated. In the office you can have fluid discussions, listen to feedback and share ideas. If you are feeling down there is always someone in the office to cheer you up, and sometimes these seemingly meaningless interactions are, in reality, really good for you and your team. They can boost creativity, morale and productivity.

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Many would say that there should be a delineation between work and home, however it is hard to switch off from work when your office is literally down the hallway from your bedroom. Without a doubt, home life will impinge on work life, particularly with children, pets and other potential disruptions.

If you spend eight hours a day inside with minimum or no human interaction, you will almost certainly begin feeling isolated. Even the most introverted among us can start feeling a little claustrophobic after a number of weeks at home, alone - it can get lonely and good discipline is required to set working hours and sticking to them.

Thanks to technologies like Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Skype we now have instant video

conferencing at our fingertips, and communication with clients and colleagues has never been easier. However, in an office, you can tap someone on the shoulder if you need to talk or prompt a discussion. It is not practical to call someone every time you have a question or idea. In the long term. it is difficult to solely rely on web video conferencing to improve team communication. Video conferencing has become overwhelming and exhausting.

Non-verbal cues are quite difficult to pick up and the stress of looking at a screen for long periods of time have resulted in a new form of exhaustion, the feeling of tiredness, anxiousness or worrying about yet another video call.

I for one miss the energy that is collectively generated in our office, and the face-to-face networking which is paramount in the property industry. It’s 1.00 pm and I’m off to take the team to lunch.

Janet Marshall Director | Commercial Colliers International North Shore M: 021 684 775 E: janet.marshall@colliers.com

S I LV E R S P O N SO R

BNH welcomes our first Silver Sponsor Established in 2011 by Gustav Wentzel, Stealth Media is a New Zealand owned and operated media company based in Silverdale.

Part of the Stealth Group, a group of five diverse businesses, Stealth Media specialises in providing clients with high quality custom solutions for their website and advertising requirements.

With all the challenges faced by New Zealand business in our fight against COVID19, Stealth Media has decided to change and adapt to the current market and economic climate by setting up permanent home-based offices for all its employees so that they can pass on the savings to our clients. We will still shout you and your team a coffee at your favourite café or at the Business North Harbour boardroom when we meet!

“We pride ourselves on operating as an honest, no nonsense business that helps New Zealand businesses take their brand to the world,” says company director Gustav Wentzel. “Our strategic approach helps businesses build their unique brand via online media (including web design, augmented reality, click and collect, website redesigning, E-commerce, web strategy and SEO) as well as outdoor and indoor media (such as

billboards, street furniture, bus, radio, TV, cinema, mall, rail and airport advertising).”

“Our philosophy is simple - we believe in a straightforward message, clearly communicated on the right media, at the right time, for a reasonable budget.”

As BNH’s first silver sponsor, Stealth Media’s sales manager Venessa Minkley comments, “We are excited to support BNH and their members, along with getting to meet many of the local businesses as we move out of Alert Level 2. This time in our lives will present many new opportunities and we want to be here to support businesses grow and succeed well into the future.”

Want to know more about developing a professional custom-built website or effective advertising options for your business and other online solutions to get noticed across the local North Harbour region and beyond?

Visit stealthmedialtd.co.nz or call for free on 0508 783 258. Be sure to mention that you saw this feature in FYI for some amazing discounts and interest free payment options.

Gustav Wentzel

BNH Sponsorship Packages for 2020/21 For the upcoming 2020/21 financial year, Business North Harbour has introduced new sponsorship options for member and associate member businesses wanting to increase their involvement and profile within

our business district. Along with our existing Gold Sponsor package, Platinum and Silver Sponsor packages have been created to ensure that any sized business can increase their print, digital, business development, and

networking visibility with our members. BNH is pleased to welcome associate member Stealth Media as our first Silver Sponsor, and we expect to see more names under this category shortly.

BNH is also expanding Event Category Sponsor opportunities, whereby member and associate member businesses can align with our various events, such as Business Capability Workshops, Business Lunch Series, North Shore Commercial Property Group and the new North Shore Asian Business Group.

This concept is based upon our successful Women in Business sponsorship relationship that we are delighted to maintain with Eclipse Recruitment.

Would you like to become part of our wonderful group of sponsors and promote your products and services to other businesses in North Harbour (and beyond)? Have a chat with Peter Green about sponsorship opportunities.

Phone (09) 968 2222 or e-mail comms@businessnh.org.nz

J U N E 2020 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

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G O L D S P O N SO R S

Disruption and uncertainty always create innovation and opportunity Recession. Depression.

Economic meltdown.

All such depressing words – but what if you are prepared to look past it to see Covid as an opportunity?

Humans are like the tide, with bad news the water recedes, faster and faster, we find out who is swimming naked, then the tide comes back in and we all lie back on our boogie boards, sip our margaritas and wait for the next wave to take us in.

Our media love the tide going out, they scream and shout, magnifying our fear levels, appearing like a dorsal fin beside us. Sadly, our media fail to question our leaders properly (what does the word eradication mean to you?) nor search out the truth, and forgo critical thinking to feed our negative emotions.

Having been submerged in a crisis situation, we may become oblivious to what we just went through. Events like the GFC, Y2K, SARS (NZ death toll 19) whilst remembered, the lessons may be forgotten.

Yet dissatisfaction, pressure and disruption

are at the ethos of success and growth on all levels, both professional and personal. You faced adversity in life, survived it and more than likely grew because of it.

The real issue with Covid is how you choose to react.

Many business owners, myself included, will have turned and examined their business, their costs structures, their clients, suppliers, bankers, staff – studying all aspects of their business and identified ways to adapt and improve.

Many others have discovered that they or staff can work from home, balancing the pleasures of family with work and discovering new ways of achieving success. Others will look forward to returning to work and appreciate those social connections in a new world.

Many parents will have connected with their children or partner on a new level, developing new ways of living as a family, walking as a family, and enjoying the increased exposure to nature.

Others will have to find new careers or adventures to fill in time, develop new skills.

Some will have experienced negative events

A 90-hectare haven just a stone’s throw from the office For corporate days, charity fundraisers, family celebrations and sports team prizegivings, North Shore Golf Club offers an exceptional venue in stunning surroundings.

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Seated dining for up to 200 in the Club Room Impressive views Wide range of catering options Well-stocked and staffed bar Professional DJ available Live bands – contemporary or “Rat Pack” Quality in-house AV Plentiful, hassle-free, off-road car parking

Our events team are at your service! Tell us your wish list and let us co-ordinate your perfect event.

(09) 415 9924 51 Appleby Road, Albany northshoregolfclub.co.nz 32

J U N E 2 02 0 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

as well, and perhaps Covid has exposed issues that we need to work on.

You may not control the environment, but with any situation, you have complete power of how you react.

Michael McCook is the managing director of AccountabilityNet www.accountabilitynet.co.nz

G O L D S P O N SO R S

An essential service at every COVID-19 Alert Level As with all businesses, the hotel has been severely impacted. However, it has been a privilege to help those affected who otherwise had nowhere to stay – overseas travellers who could not get home, local homeowners in the middle of renovations or selling/purchasing a house, and, of course, essential workers. We also took care of some Airbnb guests who were displaced on the day that lockdown came into effect.

The business needed to adjust to the new conditions. We responded to the daily updates from the Ministry of Health and Hospitality NZ regarding cleaning and hygiene protocols, and all the required PPE was purchased for our staff to help keep them and our guests safe and well.

Some of our staff had accommodation issues, so they stayed with us too. And, we helped our migrant workers with food and

other support, when needed.

During Alert Level 4, our guests became like family. We would phone them every morning with a cheery message, to see what they needed and assist with deliveries. Our accommodation is apartment-style with their own kitchen and laundry which meant staff did not need to enter the rooms.

To say thank you to other essential workers, Ramada NZ ran a Facebook competition with 30 prizes of two nights at any Ramada hotel in New Zealand. There was also some happy news during the lockdown with a baby born at one of our Queenstown hotels!

Moving forward in Alert Level 2 and beyond, the hotel now has all the latest cleaning protocols in place and contract tracing on arrival.

We look forward to welcoming our guests both in the hotel and conference room. Our high level of customer service continues, and we are moving ahead positively towards the rebuilding of New Zealand.

Contact: Jacqui Cheal, General Manager Ph: (09) 974 4568 E: albany.gm@ramada.nz ramadaalbany.co.nz

AMPM PROVIDE COMPLETE SOLUTIONS

FOR BETTER BUSINESS MARKETING

From a simple website to a complex custom integration, we’ve got you covered. AMPM provides you with the tools to connect with your audience and get results.

Visit ampmweb.co.nz Email web@ampm.co.nz Call (09) 300 5138

Imaginative promotional items, the latest apparel and attention grabbing merchandise will boost your brand to stand out in today’s marketplace.

Visit ampmpromo.co.nz Email promo@ampm.co.nz Call (09) 300 5132

J U N E 2020 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

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G O L D S P O N SO R S

Spark NZ’s North Shore Business Hub is the smart choice. We know what business is like where you live, because we live there too.

Sometimes in business it can feel like you need to do everything on your own. Wouldn’t it be great if someone offered a helping hand?

We offer products and services that are tailored for any business.

Our Business Hubs work where you work.

So, if you need us, we can come to you and talk things over in person, when it’s convenient for you. You will get a dedicated account manager with your service.

Every business is different. Our job is to find out what will work best for you and put together a business package that meets your budget.

We not only offer telco solutions (voice, internet & mobiles) but also simple and complex IT solutions for your business so that you can do more with technology.

More details on what’s on offer – can be found here: www.spark.co.nz/business/

NEXT ISSUE In the September issue of FYI, we’ll report back on what you told us in BNH’s annual member survey.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to respond. Your concerns, opinions and ideas help BNH to better understand what needs changing or improving in our Business Improvement District – so that you can do better business and prosper in these unprecedented times of uncertainty.

Is your business marking an important milestone?

Have you made a commitment to sustainability?

Are you celebrating a new venture or partnership in the wake of COVID-19?

Contact the editor at lizzie@writesphere.co.nz with your news.

Would you like to promote your products and services to other businesses in North Harbour (and beyond)? Have a chat with Peter Green about advertising opportunities. Phone (09) 968 2222 or e-mail comms@businessnh.org.nz.

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J U N E 2 02 0 F Y I B U S I N E SS N H .O R G . N Z

Contact us to find out how we can help you find your business edge.

Zac Morgan, Business Hub Manager Spark Business Hub North Shore Ph: 0800 482 746 E: zac.morgan@spark.co.nz Level 3, 15 Huron Street, Takapuna, Auckland 0622

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

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