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Magazine Portfolio Lewis Hurst www.hcreative.co.nz lewis@hcreative.co.nz +64 21 14 66 404

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SP. Magazine Art Direction, Design, Illustration, Production

FIGHT CLUB FOR FAITH: THe InTeRvIew wITH DAve TOmLInsOn FLU FIGHTeRs TeAm AmeRICA: sUPeRPOweR

GUesT eD: sTePHen CHRIsTIAn, AnBeRLIn

Issue #34, MAY 2010

www.spmagazine.org

need to know & culture reviewer JoN E ClIST

date night or Mate night?

the a teaM (June 11) Clash of the titans (april 1) Starring: Sam Worthington, Ralph Fiennes, Liam Neeson.

It’s the ultimate struggle for power, pitting men against kings and kings against gods. But the war between the gods themselves could destroy the world. Born of a god but raised as a man, Perseus (Worthington) is helpless to save his family from Hades (Fiennes), vengeful god of the Underworld. With nothing left to lose, Perseus volunteers to lead a dangerous mission to defeat Hades before he can seize power from Zeus (Neeson) and unleash hell on earth.

For those of you who have taken classics in school and have an interest in the mythology of Greeks and Romans this could be a highly entertaining thrill ride.

Date niGht: If you’re into mythology. Mate niGht: If you’re into action.

ironMan 2 (april 29) Starring: Robert Downey Jnr., Mickey Rourke, Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle.

Okay, you should know that I loved “Iron Man”. The gadgets, the flying, the missiles and general coolness of Tony Stark. So I have split expectations for Iron Man 2. Often a sequel just isn’t as good, but you 8

Starrng: Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper, Jessica Biel.

Okay I might be showing my age here but this was one of my favourite TV shows of the 80’s. It was all about the exciting and daring exploits of Hannibal Smith and his colourful team of former Special Forces soldiers set up for a crime they did not commit. While trying to clear their own names, they help the underdogs they encounter with their own troubles. If the TV show was anything to go by it will be the A-team against heaps of bad guys with M-16 assault rifles who can’t hit the side of barn. lots of bullets flying but no one ever gets shot... I get the feeling with Liam Neeson and Bradley Cooper in this version it might be a little more realistic...

Mate niGht: Absolute 80s flashback all round.

can’t resist seeing characters you love coming back to the big screen.

Bonus for the second round - this time the villain is played by Mickey Rourke (one of the scariest looking dudes in Hollywood these days). In Iron Man 2, Tony Stark’s identity as the man behind the iron is public knowledge as he faces pressure to share his technology with the military. Not ready to let go of his inventions, Stark, with Pepper Potts (Paltrow) and Rhodey (now played by Don Cheadle) at his side, must forge new alliances – and confront strange plastic surgery man with electric whips (Rourke).

Date niGht: It has to be.

things

Starring: Gemma Arterton, Jake Gyllenhaal, Ben Kingsley.

Yes, another movie based on a video game. I remember playing this game on my 286 PC. (Most of you won’t have the foggiest what that was).

Prince of Persia is all about a rogue prince (Gyllenhaal) who reluctantly joins forces with a mysterious princess (Arterton) in order to race against dark forces to safeguard an ancient dagger capable of releasing the Sands of Time – a special device that can reverse time and allow its possessor to rule the world (a possible iPod application if ever there was one). daTe nIghT: Made by Disney and has a princess.

people

PrInce of PersIa (may 27)

Starring: Russell Crowe, Mark Strong, Max von Sydow, Cate Blanchett.

The story of how an archer in the service of King Richard the Lionheart came to be known as Robin Hood, the famous archer and outlaw of English folklore. Beginning after the death of King Richard at the Siege of Chalus Chabrol, the film follows Robin on his rise to infamy among the English barons and the newly crowned King John. Featuring historically accurate characters such as Sir William Marshall and grounded in reality (in a similar way to Gladiator), this is Robin Hood as you have never seen before. Like the merging of folklore, history with high end action and drama (a little bit of romance thrown in for good measure). daTe nIghT: It has Russell Crowe.

culture

robIn hood (may 13)

world

“Just right for a night in…”

The InformanT

TakIng of Pelham 123

Starring: John Cusack, Danny Glover, Amanda Peet, Thandie Newton, Oliver Platt.

Disaster movie master Roland Emmerich (Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow) has decided to add to the climate change fears that we all have with this apocalyptic sci-fi thriller following the ancient Mayan calendar, which predicts the world will come to an end on December 21, 2012.

When a global cataclysm thrusts the world into chaos, divorced writer and father Jackson Curtis (Cusack) joins the race to ensure that humankind is not completely wiped out.

Starring: Matt Damon, Scott Bakula and Kiwi Melanie Linskey.

A rising star at agri‐industry giant Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), Whitacre suddenly turns whistleblower. He exposes his company’s multi‐national price‐fixing conspiracy to the FBI. Unfortunately for the FBI, their lead witness hasn’t been quite so forthcoming about helping himself to the corporate coffers. This is based on a true story and I have to say, Matt Damon’s performance as a seriously reality-impaired whistleblower is completely priceless.

Starring: Denzel Washington & John Travolta Walter Garber (Washington) is a New York City subway dispatcher whose ordinary day is thrown into chaos by an audacious crime: the hijacking of a subway train. Ryder (Travolta), the criminal mastermind behind the hijacking and leader of a highly-armed gang of four, threatens to execute the train’s passengers unless a large ransom is paid within one hour.

Travolta on Washington means high action and intense thrills.

socom fIreTeam braVo braV ra raVo 3

alIens ens Vs Preda PredaTor PredaT or

danTe's Inferno

This game has been created with the support of the U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command, so you know it’s going to be great for its real-world situations and attention to detail.

This time you lead a special operation to track and interrogate former KGB agent, Alexander Gozorov who is believed to be withholding information on a forthcoming attack with weapons of mass destruction. I really enjoyed getting to utilize a wide range of skills, stealth and swift thinking. Of course one of the plus features was that I downloaded this game and played it off memory card instead of UMD, which lead to super fast loading times and very little down time. Only downside is it’s not a long game.

Aliens Vs Predator brings nyctophobia back into the gaming sphere with its atmospheric dark corridors and you playing the part of the lonely marine trying to escape the hungry aliens. But more than a tense and terrifying horror survival, Aliens Vs Predator throws in three distinctly different styles of play, allowing you to play not only the Marines, but also Aliens and Predators. Great presentation, diversity and a whole lot of fun make this a great combination.

Whilst not always sticking to its source material, this graphical and interactive retelling of classic Italian literature packs a lot of punch. Even though this hack n slash game is part of a very crowded genre, it stands out from its counterparts through its stunning art direction and sound design, bringing the circles of hell to life in an original, but very disturbing fashion, making the reality of hell something of a frightening idea. This is a game that you won’t forget in a hurry.

score:

score:

score:

In other gaming news, watch out on www.spmagazine.org for a more in-depth look at the introduction of PSPgo and why it could very well change the portable gaming world (if the price would just halve)

insight

2012

time to interact…

reVIewed on: PSP reVIewed by:

Jon E - www.gameguide.co.nz

reVIewed on: XBox

360 Famousfivenz - www.gameguide.co.nz

reVIewed on: XBox

reVIewed by:

reVIewed by:

360 Famousfivenz - www.gameguide.co.nz

9

TEAM AMERICA: SUPERPOWER? words FrAnk rITCHIe

illustration LewiS HUrSt

I

t was mid April at the Summit of the Americas. Two presidents met and shook hands. In that moment the world shifted significantly and a whole new mode of foreign policy from the U.S opened up.

President Obama’s hand grasping that of President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela for the world to see may not seem like much to the average on-looker, but it signalled a significant departure from the approach of previous U.S administrations to countries that were not in complete alignment with U.S desires.

We live in a country where many of us hold a cautious and somewhat fearful approach to nations traditionally seen as enemies of the U.S because our information sources are often driven by theirs. We look on with helplessness as we hear of more stories of terrorism and hostile states, often never being told what ferments the anger of people who would wish to resort to violence to make a point. In some instances we feel fear. Can we look forward to something better?

To find what propels that anger and in turn, 20

find why Obama’s overtures to various states or foe. Out of this address came the term such as Cuba, Venezuela, Iran and Syria are “The Axis of Evil” to refer to states considered so significant, one only needs to listen to the hostile to the aims of the U.S – Iran, Iraq and voices of many who are affected by American North Korea. foreign policy.

That address clearly outlaid a policy direction The BBC world service annual survey of of might, power and control that would form global views of U.S. foreign policy offers some America’s engagement with the world for revealing perspectives. In 2007 over two thirds the rest of Bush’s time as President. Gary said the US military presence in the Middle Schmidt reflected it in an article written for East provoked more conflict than it prevented. the Project for the New American Century in The poll also showed significant disapproval 2003 when he said “the unavoidable reality of the way the US is that the exercise of had handled many American power is key to People in desperate situations foreign policy maintaining what peace do desperate things. issues including and order there is in the Guantanamo Bay world today.” and Iran.

This view further cemented wounds already The polling gave worse results for the felt in some parts of the world and it led to U.S than previously already poor surveys sanctions and military actions that pushed conducted for 2005 and 2006 many into desperate situations. People in In his State of the Union Address of January desperate situations do desperate things.

2002, President Bush demonstrated his Prior to this, Afghanistan was a hot-bed of approach to the world, one that would divide what we now call terrorism after being left countries into simplistic categories of friend broken from the cold-war battle between

things people culture

world insight Russia and America during the late 70’s and 80’s. America backed the Mujahideen in their fight against the Russians. Many of those Arabic fighters would later form Al-Qaeda and fight against the very power that armed and trained them. Why? Iran was/is reeling from American support of the despotic Shah Reva Pahlavi after the CIA and MI6 (British) backed coup that ousted their democratically elected leader, Mossadeq, in 1953 when he was about to nationalize Iranian oil. Then there was the condemnation from America of the own populist Iranian revolution in the late 70’s. That condemnation paved the way for a regime of very conservative Islam.

Subsequently America went on to support and supply Saddam Hussein in his war against the Iranians in the 80’s – a war that saw chemical weapons used against Iranian soldiers in the thousands, only to then see America turn on Iraq due to Saddam’s invasion of Kuwait.

Lebanon, the Palestinians, Korea, Vietnam, Chile, Cuba, Venezuela and many other countries and people groups have been victims

“Finally, while there are instances and individuals who can be met only by force, the United States will be prepared to listen to and talk with our adversaries in order to advance our interests.”

- White House policy statement

of political interference that has subjugated them to the pursuit of American desires.

In some instances, discontent with this interference has led to rebellions that have been subsequently condemned by the U.S, alienating said peoples and pushing them into categories of “evil”. Sadly, the natural response has been to lash out in violence and often moves towards various forms of extremism.

Violence is the resort of the helpless – individuals and groups who can find no other means to achieve an end.

The world is now faced with a new direction and new guidelines for American foreign policy.

The foreign policy page on the Whitehouse website states this: “Finally, while there are instances and individuals who can be met only by force, the United States will be prepared to listen to and talk with our adversaries in order to advance

our interests.”

This is a departure from a policy that saw no room to give voice to “adversaries” and their grievances. It has seen the current administration make overtures to “hostile” states and led to that now famous handshake at the Summit of the Americas. This new direction allows for targets of American aggression and interference to move out of the corners they have been pushed into, to talk, to be heard and to be given value.

Did Bush get it all wrong? No. Will Obama get it all right? No, but the world is hopeful and at the same time, cautious. As the voice and ears of diplomacy are raised, may the present hope be realized and may we look towards a world where “terrorist” activity is no longer a nightly occurrence on our news. May it no longer be a norm in how we understand the machinations of humanity.

21

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Drinksbiz Magazine Art Direction, Design, Illustration, Production note. Cover Art Supplied

LNZ0305_FRONT

JUNE / JULY 2013 WWW.DRINKSBIZ.CO.NZ

SPIRITS & COCKTAILS

JAMESON LAUNCHES SPECIAL ST PATRICK’S DAY BOTTLE JAMESON IRISH Whiskey has launched a new bottle for St Patrick’s Day on 17 March 2013.

The new bottle, designed by traditional glass artist David Smith, marks one of Ireland’s most celebrated days and was inspired by the intricate glass etching and ornate gilding synonymous with the décor of great Dublin pubs where Jameson has been enjoyed for generations.

The special limited edition Jameson bottle is available in New Zealand from 1 March 2013.

Distributor: Pernod Ricard New Zealand, phone 0800 503 000.

Mojito spirit with Havana HAVANA CLUB Añejo 3 Años replaces Havana Club Añejo Blanco and is made by blending aged and aromatic sugar cane distillates.

These rum batches are rested for three years in white oak barrels before the master distiller chooses the best to blend the final Havana Club Añejo 3 Años. The result is a smooth premium rum, perfect for enjoying in cocktails such as the Mojito.

“Añejo 3 Años” literally means “aged 3 years”. Havana Club 3 Años is aged in white oak barrels for at least three years, which enables it to develop aromas of flower, sugar cane, herbs and citrus. This ageing process infuses the rum with powerful and complex flavours, and leaves the resulting spirit with a pale straw colour.

The mojito is an authentic Cuban cocktail, made at iconic Cuban bars such as La Bodeguita del Medio.

Distributor: Havana Club 3 Años, RRP $40.99 (700ml) and RRP $54.99 (1L), available from Pernod Ricard, phone 0800 503 000.

48

SPIRITS & COCKTAILS

Shackleton’s epic recreation Whyte & Mackay has launched a second edition of its famous ‘Shackleton’s Whisky’ to celebrate the infamous 1907 adventure WHISKY MAKER Whyte & Mackay has launched a second Mackinlay’s malt, also and affectionately known as ‘Shackleton’s Whisky’; the replica of the century old whisky found under Sir Ernest Shackleton’s hut in the Antarctic.

Following the huge success of its original recreation, the Glasgow based distiller has launched a second edition called Mackinlay’s The Journey.

The move was prompted by a request from the Antarctic Heritage Trust (AHT), the charity which found the whisky, to find ways to raise much needed funds for the conservation of the expedition bases on the Antarctic.

The first run of the replica Mackinlay’s quickly sold out - with its success raising close to UK£250,000 for the AHT. The funds will be used for conservation, research and a web based education programme about the great explorer.

The release of the new recreation is expected to raise a further UK£500,000 for the AHT to assist with their efforts to conserve and maintain Shackleton’s

Antarctic legacy for the benefit of current and future generations.

Mackinlay’s The Journey contains different malts from the original recreation – but it tastes like the original replica and the 100 year old whisky. The packaging has changed dramatically to signify that it is a different product and, instead of a wooden crate, the bottle comes wrapped in ‘straw’ – just like the original bottles found under Shackleton’s hut.

SHACKLETON’S WHISKY IN NZ FROM FEBRUARY… The aim is to sell 100,000 bottles around the world; it will be available in New Zealand from late February 2013 at Glengarry’s stores, Whisky Galore and selected liquor stores.

To read more about the product please visit: www. theshackletonwhisky.com Mackinlay’s ‘The Journey’ is distributed in New Zealand by Hancocks Wine, Spirit and Beer Merchants. www.hancocks.co.nz

THE STORY… In January 2011, three bottles from the original case of Shackleton whisky found in the Antarctic were flown by private plane from New Zealand to Whyte & Mackay’s Glasgow base by company owner Dr Vijay Mallya.

Arriving home in Scotland for the first time in over 100 years, the whisky was taken to Whyte & Mackay’s Invergordon Spirit Laboratory for detailed analysis.

This was the start of an inspirational adventure to faithfully recreate the whisky.

Following the scientific analysis and a successful recreation, the three original bottles of whisky flown to Scotland were returned intact to New Zealand in December last year. The bottles now have been returned to Shackleton’s hut in Antarctica, unlikely to ever leave the ice again.

FIND OUT MORE… For more details, contact Emma Lowe, assistant brand manager at Hancocks, Auckland, phone (09) 361 8400 , email: emmal@hancocks.co.nz or look online at: www.hancocks.co.nz

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2013 DRINKSBIZ 49

WHISKY CATEGORY REPORT

Glenfarclas 105

RRP $105

Chivas Regal 12 Year Old

Laphroaig 10 Years Old

RRP $109.99

RRP $67.99, 700ml

Production volumes of this 60% ABV whisky (105 proof) are extremely limited - and in high demand - says Michael F Fraser Milne of Whisky Galore, who says of Glenfarclas: “This is widely recognised as a stunning addition to the 105 range.”

Chivas Regal is a full bodied, fruity, rich malt whisky from the oldest operating distillery in the highlands. Its hallmark characteristic is its renowned smoothness and honeyed, fruity taste; both of which make it an easy whisky to savour and enjoy.

Bunnahabhain Islay Single Malt RRP $86.50

This is the top drop of Islay whisky producer, Bunnahabhain, and it’s a precious dribble too which has been allocated to this country; just two bottles of the new 41.7% ABV dram have winged their way to New Zealand shores; out of a grand total of just 750 bottles made in total. It’s intensely rich in style with a distinctive but restrained peat influence. Beauty from Scotland’s west coast.

Trade enquiries for Glenfarclas and Bunnahabhain: Whisky Galore, phone 0800 whisky (944759), email: info@whiskygalore.co.nz

Jameson Irish Whiskey RRP $63.99, 1 litre Jameson Irish Whiskey was established by John Jameson in 1780 and is a triple distilled dram, matured in bourbon and sherry casks for between five and seven years prior to release. It’s a mellow, pot still whiskey with toasted wood and vanilla undertones carrying its smooth texture and nutty aromas to a lingering sweet finish.

Trade enquiries for Glenlivet, Chivas and Jameson: Pernod Ricard New Zealand, phone 0800 503 000.

Canadian Club

RRP $44.99

Glenlivet Single Malt 12 Year Old RRP $79.99, 700ml

The Glenlivet comes from the heart of Scottish whisky country; made with barley steeped in crystal cold Highland water to convert the grain into fermentable starch; the result is a smooth, pale golden coloured dram with delicacy and dryness.

Canadian Club was founded by whisky lover Hiram Walker, who defined its style by ageing CC in white oak, which gives the spirit its characteristic aromas of vanilla and a medium intensity of oakderived spice on the nose. It’s a big name drink with a medium body, a long finish and flavours on the palate of dark caramel; delicious for winter.

Whisky Galore celebrates 20 years The owners of Christchurch store, Whisky Galore, celebrate 20 years in business this year and to mark the occasion, they are hosting tastings throughout New Zealand and Australia with the famous whisky writer and ‘nose’, Charles MacLean MQ, and the Hon Alex Bruce KQ of Adelphi Distillery Ltd. Another special way to mark two decades of their specialty whisky business includes a specialty bottling and further tastings throughout New Zealand with Allastair S Campbell and Michael F Fraser Milne KQ. 52 DRINKSBIZ APRIL / MAY 2013

Laphroaig is one of the world’s most distinctive whiskies, thanks to its intense and unmistakable peat and smoke flavours, derived from the use of Scottish peat during the kilning process. The smoky aromas permeating the grain are further enhanced thanks to the use of first-fill American oak casks for maturation and the result is a full bodied whisky with intensely earthy aromas and a tangy salty taste on the front palate; its sweet finish marries nicely with the down to earth taste of the whisky, adding depth and complexity to this multilayered favourite of whisky devotees.

Teacher’s Highland Cream

RRP $45.99

Teacher’s is a blended Scotch with over 45% malt whisky, a full bodied style, smooth malty richness and savoury aromas of earth, oak and smokiness coming through on the finish. Serve neat or with ice or water. It’s also a good all-round mixer.

Trade enquiries for Canadian Club, Laphroaig and Teacher’s: Beam Global NZ, phone (09) 915 8444.

Talisker 10 Year Old

RRP $111.99

By 1880, Talisker was known as ‘The king o’ drinks’ in its Scottish homeland, where this whisky house was founded 50 years prior, in 1830 by Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill. It’s an island whisky and is known for its smoky, peaty taste; that combined with a sweet finish makes this whisky a great partner with rich smoked seafoods such as smoked salmon, smoked cod roe and, for those living in the UK, kippers.

CATEGORY REPORT WHISKY

“Speak of the Devil and he will hear about it.”

– Ambrose Bierce

Lagavulin 16 Year Old

RRP $162.99

Monkey Shoulder Whisky

RRP $64.99

Bruichladdich - Laddie 10 Year Old RRP $101.50

Its name – Laggan Mhouillin - means ‘hollow where the mill is’ but there’s nothing hollow about this full bodied islay malt with its peaty smoke aromas and rich salty tangy taste. The house was founded in 1816

by John Johnston and has since forged a reputation as one of Scotland’s most highly regarded whiskies.

On looks alone, the exotically named Monkey Shoulder is an outstanding Scotch whisky; it’s also an interesting blend of three different single malts, including Glenfiddoch, Balvenie and Kininvie – each one adding sweet flavours, smooth texture and a combination of finesse and complexity.

Glen Moray Whisky 12 Year RRP $94.99

Cragganmore 12 Year Old

Scottish barley, American oak and the chilly outer isles of Scotland all combine to make this fresh, vibrant whisky the complex 10 year old dram it is. There are nuances of tangy lemon, salty air and oaky sweetness but the whole is better than the sum of its complex parts. Needless to say, this one is a special one for cool winter nights.

RRP $128.99

If you’ve heard of Cragganmore, you’re either a die-hard whisky fanatic or extremely well informed since this is one of Scotland’s smallest whisky distilleries and its spirits are relatively rare. Situated in Speyside, its house style is sweet vanilla, honey and light malty flavours; making it a good match with roast pork and all the trimmings.

Trade enquiries for Talisker, Lagavulin and Cragganmore: Lion, customer services phone: 0800 10 72 72.

Glen Moray distillery has had a new lease of life since it was founded in 1897 on the banks of the River Lossie, west of Elgin. It closed in 1910 and then reopened, only to close again but has operated continuously since 1920 and is now owned by Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy. Large though its ownership is, the whisky is a full bodied, top shelf handed crafted malt, available in both 12 and 16 year olds.

Tomatin Whisky 12, 15, 18 and 21 Year Olds RRP from $84.95 to $325

Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey RRP $52.99 Tullamore Dew was founded in 1829 in County Offaly, Ireland, and is characterised by its smooth, soft style. It’s triple distilled then blended and aged in charred oak, which helps adds its satiny mouth feel. It’s a great mixer for cocktails as well as a stand alone Irish dram.

Talk about a far north distillery – in more ways than one. Tomatin is in the Monadhliath Mountains; 315 metres above sea level situated just south of Inverness – capital of the Scottish highlands. It’s a rich highland styled malt; mellow sweet on the finish with full body and a range of complex styles to choose from.

Trade enquiries for Tullamore, Monkey Shoulder, Glen Moray and Tomatin: Federal Geo, Phone (09) 578 2615, Email: bho@federalgeo.co.nz www.federalgeo.co.nz

Isle of Jura Superstition

RRP $88

American oak adds a warm caramel hue, rich sweet aroma and deep colour to this island single malt; a multi vintage Scotch whisky which is characterised by its almond, honey and sweet caramel aromas, tempered by a long fresh finish.

Dalmore 18

RRP $185

Talk about a complex whisky; this one begins its maturation in American oak before being moved to sherry casks for an extra three years; the result is a complex layer of flavours ranging from spicy cinnamon, ripe apples and even chocolate to vanilla and coffee. It’s multilayered in aroma and taste and has a rich lingering finish.

Trade enquiries: Hancocks Wine, Spirit & Beer Merchants, phone 0800 699 463. www.hancocks.co.nz.

APRIL / MAY 2013 DRINKSBIZ 53

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FYI Magazine Art Direction, Design, Production

NORTH HARBOUR BUSINESS ASSOCIATION MEMBER NEWS AND INFORMATION

FEBRUARY 2013

Changing the lightbulbs Save energy and increase your profit

www.nhba.org.nz 12 Expansion poll Be ready to vote

18 Tea, toast

and the top six mistakes made by new exporters

20 Share market for dummies

22 The inside job Is your bank account bleeding from within?

BUSINESS REPORT

Raising capital: what do businesses need to do?

A

t ANZ it seems to us that most business owners have accepted that the current economic conditions are here to stay – the phrase ‘the new normal’ is used a lot for a reason.

There are no signs that consumers will return to their pre Global Financial Crisis (GFC) spending habits, so business owners are realising that they need to be smarter at what they do and have a unique proposition. New Zealand is a finite market and business owners are recognising that they can’t grow by selling more of the same stuff to the same customers. Either they need to offer something different to the local market, or they need to be looking at international markets.

A lot of this growth is either evolution of their existing products and services, or it’s about finding new markets for an existing product. For many, this means looking at international markets. But whether you’re internationally or domestically focused, understanding what’s happening in the global economy is important.

The European economy remains subject to uncertainty and while the US looks to be out of the worst, they are a long way off returning to their dominant economic position. Similarly, it is becoming apparent that Australia’s economy cannot run on resources alone.

Meanwhile Asia, particularly China, is managing exponential growth in an otherwise subdued global landscape.

16 NOVEMBER 2012 FYI WWW.NHBA.ORG.NZ

The global situation does have an upside for New Zealand. We have good assets to invest in, we came through the GFC relatively cleanly and our bank ratings are still relatively strong.

This makes us a good destination for investment capital.

On the downside, the GFC has put pressure on banks, because banks are now required to hold more capital and liquidity. It is important for banks to balance their funding between the local market and the offshore market.

“The global situation does have an upside for New Zealand. We have good assets to invest in, we came through the GFC relatively cleanly and our bank ratings are still relatively strong.”

This doesn’t mean that the banks don’t have money to lend, but it does mean there is pressure on banks to manage their portfolios sensibly.

Despite what many people think, lending criteria have not changed significantly from five years ago. We continue to support businesses that are well-managed, have a clearly defined goal and a tangible strategy to achieve that goal.

We continue to look at the fundamentals of the business including cash flow management, customer and supplier arrangements and the experience of the owners and management team.

For businesses looking to raise capital, the more information they can provide, the better.

Having a really good understanding of the opportunity allows you to identify the risks and put strategies in place to maximise the chance of success.

Lynda Mann, ANZ Auckland Regional Manager, explains. “Historical financials gives us a good sense of where you have been and demonstrates your ability to execute,” she says. “Forward information, however, like cash flow forecasting and budgets, gives a clearer view of where you want to go and how you are going to get there. A good understanding of your cash flow cycle, stock holdings and debtor payments provide a good picture of cash management needs. With any plans for growth that requires funding, it’s important that we see a process of due diligence having been followed and that you have a good governance structure in place. We also encourage businesses to engage with appropriate professionals to provide advice on these plans.

“The most important factor to remember is that banks make decisions based on the information they are given, so the more information you can provide, the better placed we are to make an informed decision.”

To discuss your funding requirements, contact Lynda Mann on 09 252 5006 or at Lynda.

Mann@anz.com. www.anz.co.nz ANZ lending criteria apply.

ANZ Bank New Zealand Limited

SUCCESS STORY

T

he recent inaugural Virtual Assistant Conference NZ in Wellington brought together virtual providers from all over the country to share ideas and technologies in this fast-growing industry.

The virtual industry was established some years ago, but has undergone enormous growth in New Zealand during the last couple of years. Covering a range of skills, from administration and accounts to social media and website design, virtual professionals, or VPs, work remotely and only charge for the services required by their clients. Outsourcing to a virtual assistant or VA, as they are also sometimes known, offers enormous time and cost savings, which particularly appeals to the SME market.

At the conference, which was sponsored

by Xero, BeMyVA.com and Private Box, NHBA member Lindsey Carroll of Outbox was awarded the ‘Virtual Provider of the Year Award 2102’.

Lindsey says she offers any service where she can use online (cloud) software, allowing SMEs to outsource the online tasks they don’t have time for, or would rather not do.

“VPs work virtually, often from home or a small office,” she says. “We are highly skilled in our chosen areas, and often have many years experience. Areas can include accountancy and book-keeping, transcription, website design, social media management, documen-

tation, copywriting, e-newsletter creation and sending, general administration, diary management, graphic design and telesales.”

VPs offer businesses a very affordable option in return for highly-skilled services. By using a VP service, a business doesn’t need to employ staff, pay overheads such as Kiwisaver, maternity or sick leave, or provide office space, contracts, equipment or training. VP services can be used as little or as often as needed, and provide a range of specialists to choose from, whereas to employ a marketing manager, secretary, webmaster, and so on would be too costly and impractical. Some companies even use VPs in different time zones to increase productivity.

Lindsey says the increase in online technologies has made it easier for businesses to share their work with VPs. “They can be set up with an email signature and appear to be part of a company,” she says. “The use of smart phones, tablets and mobile broadband has allowed for faster communication, and it’s now possible for a whole team to work together ‘virtually’. I know of some that have members in five different countries and rely on Skype,

“VPs offer businesses a very affordable option in return for highly-skilled services.”

Photo courtesy Gavin Brunton, Photos Inc, Ponsonby

Local business winner a VP VIP

email and mobile communications – their customers are none the wiser.”

The recent conference led to the establishment of the Virtual Professionals Organisation of NZ, which aims to register those working in the industry, share knowledge, and provide a directory for those wishing to use VP services.

A second conference is planned for next year.

VP is the way of the future, says Lindsey.

“The Christchurch earthquakes demonstrated how businesses using cloud technologies could move easily and continue to work uninterrupted. As office space and commuting becomes more expensive, roads more congested and demand for sustainability increases, it can only boost the VP industry.”

Lindsey adds that more and more business owners know they need to keep up with technology, but some areas may be outside of their traditional skill set. “For example, a butcher who created a business ten to fifteen years ago was best at being a butcher,” she says.

“But now they need to have a website, appear on social media, and send out e-newsletters as people turn to phones and computers to look for services. Customers demand online shopping, delivery and more information on products. They can now look at competition from the comfort of their own home, and business has to change to compete in that field.”

The arrival of ultra-fast broadband in the Albany area (see page 18) will make the use of offsite providers like Outbox even easier.

To contact Lindsey and find out more about the service that Outbox provides, phone 09 413 6555 or visit www.outbox.co.nz.

WWW.NHBA.ORG.NZ FYI NOVEMBER 2012 21

SECTOR FOCUS

Sustaining sustainability Sustainability applies to everything from turning off the light when you leave the room to designing a country’s export strategy based on clean, green values. It’s about protecting what we have, as individuals, as companies and as a country so that it will be available for future generations.

8 FEBRUARY 2013 FYI WWW.NHBA.ORG.NZ

SECTOR FOCUS

H

eather Stonyer, director – Campus Development, Unitec Institute of Technology, says there are several ways to approach sustainability, one of which is better business practice.

Unitec scored highly in this last year when it won the Trailblazer Not For Profit Award in the 2012 NZI National Sustainable Business Network Awards, reflecting its Environmental Sustainability Strategy across its campuses in Albany, Waitakere and Mt Albert in Auckland.

The programme involved more than 160 staff and student eco-reps and included planting native shrubs, using mini bins and double-sided printing, establishing a sustainable arboretum and using worm farms at the Waitakere and Albany campuses.

Last year Unitec became the first NZ tertiary institution to sign the UN Commitment to Sustainable Practices of Higher Education Institutions, developed an on-line Environmental Management System and initiated activities such as Bike Wise month and car-pooling services.

On a national scale, the Government’s Economic Growth Agenda (EGA) recognises green growth The Government in the creation of a more productive, is spending an export-oriented economy, and the need extra $2.5 million for New Zealand’s products to meet on encouraging our clean, green image. business energy The Government is spending an efficiency in extra $2.5 million on encouraging busi- 2012/13. ness energy efficiency in 2012/13.

Through EECA, the Government is implementing new standards and labelling for electrical appliances, providing information to businesses, and supporting importers and manufacturers in meeting product standards and promoting energy efficient products. EECA will also encourage businesses to reduce their use of fossil fuels and/or switch to more efficient fuels.

Commitment to these issues is reflected at council level, for example, strong visionary statements in the Auckland Plan which includes “the long-term aspirational goal of Zero Waste by 2040”.

However, New Zealand has substantial environmental issues, notably greenhouse gas emissions, degraded water quality in our lowland waterways and our standard practices in waste management.

On a global scale, there is a general shift towards greener growth and New Zealand is well positioned to perform well, thanks to its relatively low population density and less intensive industrialisation, along with extensive mountainous areas and generous rainfall and wind. One-third of the nation’s land area has conservation status and remains in native vegetation, protected high country which provides a large renewable source of freshwater.

New Zealand is in the top tier of OECD nations in the use of non-fossil energy for electricity generation. Approximately 70% of our generation is hydro, geothermal and wind power, with a goal to reach 90% by 2025. Of total energy usage, non-fossil fuel sources are approximately 39%.

These percentages reflect New Zealand’s renewable energy resources and our relatively low levels of population density, industrialisation and electricity demand.

Shedding light on energy efficiency How many company directors does it take to change a light bulb? One, as long as he or she is open to new technology.

M

ajor advances in energy efficient technology and improved lighting design are generating good news stories in sustainability in business.

That’s because most investments in lighting have a reasonably quick, visible payback. Even better, there may be funding available to ease the pain.

0800 Save Energy works with companies to improve energy efficiency in lighting, for new buildings, upgrades or buildings being taken over for a different purpose which have different lighting needs.

Martin Lynch, client advisor – Energy Management, says the first task is to focus on what the lighting design has to achieve; ie, its function and aesthetics that the person needs to operate appropriately. The second step is the energy efficiency – what savings are achievable while improving the lighting, including the control of the lighting, and fulfilling health and safety standards.

LED technology is a major development in energy efficiency, not only because it uses less power but because, as an electronic device, it has a wide range of control options as standard; Eg daylight harvesting, occupancy controls and dimming.

However Mr Lynch warns that LED is developing faster than the standards that support it. “There are lots of good standards in place for current lighting technology, but the standards for LED are still being developed so there is a lot of variable quality.”

He says most overhauls of lighting systems implemented by 0800 Save Energy achieve on average 60-80 per cent savings in lighting energy, with pay back of two to four years. “That’s not long given that most lighting systems last at least 10 years or more, plus you’re getting improved lighting quality and often better functionality.” The company recently won two Illumination Engineering Society awards,

one for a project at Auckand International Airport which included savings of 69% lighting usage and the second for a lighting upgrade of the University of Auckland Owen Gleen lecture theatre.

The airport project saved 500,000 kW hours over a year but to achieve such results, he says, customers have to accept the company motto: The first cut is the deepest.

“Let’s say you put in a solution which gives 30% savings but a few more controls would have achieved 55-60% savings. If you don’t get that right first time, you can’t go back and fix it because you’ve already spent your money on the fittings and you can’t justify going back to get your last 20%.

You’re stuck with that until that lighting comes up for renewal and that could be another 10 years.”

Martin says that over the life of the installation, the extra spend will be recovered several times from the extra savings achieved.

LED technology is a major development in energy efficiency, not only because it uses less power but because, as an electronic device, it has a wide range of control options as standard.

The Government is spending an extra $2.5 million on encouraging business energy efficiency in 2012/13. Through EECA the Government is focusing on developing and implementing new standards and labelling for electrical appliances; providing information to businesses; and supporting importers and manufacturers in meeting product standards and promoting energy efficient products. The increase in funding will also allow EECA to focus more resources on encouraging businesses to reduce their use of fossil fuels and/or switch to more efficient fuels.

WWW.NHBA.ORG.NZ FYI FEBRUARY 2013 9

Lewis Hurst Work History H Creative Limited

2010 – Present

role Director/Designer clients

DrinksBiz Magazine AFL New Zealand North Harbour Business Association Serco - Mt Eden Corrections Facility Pure Black Racing Appco - Paralympics and Wheel Blacks Reloaders Supplies Ltd. Lift Magazine - Windsor Park Baptist Church

Fairfax Media Contract Publishing

2006 – 2010

role

Art Director/Senior Designer responsibilities Skysport The Magazine AA Directions Host Magazine Art Direction and design. Conceptualising and directing photoshoots while working within budget constraints. achievements 2008 Magazine Publishing Association Awards: Finalist - Custom Publishing Designer of the Year, Skysport The Magazine Winner - Custom Publishing Best Use of Photography, Skysport The Magazine

Voyager Group – Leppin Sport/Media Unlimited

contact me m 021 14 66 404 lewis@hcreative.co.nz t 09 554 1023 w www.hcreative.co.nz e

43a Langton Road Stanmore Bay Whangaparaoa 0932 a

2003 – 2006

role Art

Director/Senior Designer Multisport Magazine Femme Magazine Art Direction and design.

Branding and advertising for Leppin Sport and PRO4 supplements and for various other small brands including The Goodstuff Party Pills and O2 Sunglasses.

Promotional design for various multisport events e.g. Race banners, ads, entry forms etc.

responsibilities

Natcol Design Technology

2001

role Administration responsibilities

Reception and PA for approximately four months prior to studying their Diploma in Computer Graphic Design in 2002.

Continued part time work while a student.

Education Natcol Design Technology

2002

Diploma of Computer Graphic Design

University of Auckland

1999 – 2001

Studied two and a half years towards a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering Degree.

Te Awamutu College A Bursary – Graphic Design, Art Sculpture, Physics, Calculus and Statistics.

Head Boy - 1998

1994 – 1998