Issue 94 | May/June 2012
www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
The
champion’ s
champion
On the eve of his final Olympic mission, Dave Currie talks about the state of the Games and those who play them The leaky building epidemic Systemic failure on a shameful scale Putting in the groundwork Why commercial property investment is a better bet than residential The perfect storm Debt, austerity, low growth and high unemployment make for a gloomy forecast Making your team tick Tips and tricks to get your crew ticking like clockwork
News | Initiatives | Interviews | Personalities | Information | Success | Profiles | Finance | Property | Sustainability | Export | Transport | Retail | Solutions | ISSN 1173-1508
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Issue 94 | May/June 2012
Contents
Issue 94 May/June 2012
In this issue…
The
champion’s
champion
Viewpoints
Features
Business
6 Editorial
11 Putting in the ground work
20 Leaky building special
On the eve of his final Olympic mission, Dave Currie talks about the state of the Games and those who play them The leaky building epidemic Systemic failure on a shameful scale Putting in the groundwork Why commercial property investment is a better bet than residential
The reputation game
The perfect storm Debt, austerity, low growth and high unemployment make for a gloomy forecast Making your team tick Tips and tricks to get your crew ticking like clockwork
6 Management
News | Initiatives | Interviews | Personalities | Information | Success | Profiles | Finance | Property | Sustainability | Export | Transport | Retail | Solutions | ISSN 1173-1508
Auckland Today
Issue 94
22,487 ABC circulation as at 30/06/11
www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
Strategic management for the modern company
7 Finance
12 Cover story
Savers and investors still getting it wrong
New Zealand Olympic Games Chef de Mission Dave Currie on his final Olympic mission, the state of the Games and those who play them
7 Intellectual property
HEAD OFFICE Academy House 47B Birmingham Drive Middleton PO Box 1879 Christchurch
Dispelling urban myths around trademarks
14 The perfect storm
8 Human resources Keeping young workers on point
MANAGING DIRECTOR Gary Collins
8 Working life
GENERAL MANAGER Rebecca Harris
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Kylie Moore ADMIN MANAGER Kelly Clarke Kimberley Wells Judy Slater Tayla Brown
SALES & ADVERTISING Grant Williams Melissa Sinclair Rob Cochrane Steve Dando Mogens Petersen George Ziegler Janet Campbell Gavin McQueen Verne Williams
SALES EXECUTIVES
Jonathon Taylor Corazon Miller Karen Pasco Marie Sherry Phone: Fax: Email:
30 Business development New Zealand has a proud history of ingenuity, but behind these inventers there needs to be genuine skill to help turn ideas into reality – and that’s exactly where ES Plastics steps in
32 Initiatives Glendene-based Rubbish Direct is on a mission to revolutionise the way Aucklanders take out the trash
16 Making your team tick
35 Goods and Services
9 Business online
Tips and tricks to get your crew ticking like clockwork
How Libra Woodworks’ recession busting blueprint sees the company sitting pretty
17 What really works
36 Hospitality
Eight management practices directly correlated with superior performance
Getting a taste of West Brook Winery, how Barworks is looking to create social networks the old fashion way, how the Professional Bar and Restaurant School serves up success on a platter and saying it with Cupcake
Should you blog on your company website?
9 Technology Sweet sounds from the Philips Fidelio
17 Working from home
10 Public face
The pros and cons of walking away from an office
A fate worse than death
10 Events diary Courses, events and seminars near you
NEWSROOM
The turbulent waters may have calmed and optimism is in the air, but with the Eurozone crisis refusing to abate, experts warn the worst may not be over
With up to 110,000 homes affected with a repair bill running to the tune of $30 billion, we look at the state of Auckland’s leaky building epidemic
Making emotional health your priority
Di Barclay
ADMINISTRATION
Olly Newland explains why commercial property investment is a better bet than residential
18 Local hot spots A user’s guide to Elliot Stables
EDITOR
19 Lifestyles A little slice of LA life, some far-out furniture, the ultimate accessory, gear for those on the go, a great gadget and top drop
03 940 4737 0800 555 054 editor@academy.net.nz
42 Property and Construction Putting a little love into your home with the New Zealand Renovation Company, how two industry visionaries created Total Infrastructure and Victoria Park Market’s new lease of life
PRODUCTION
36
Ian Knott PRODUCTION MANAGER Carolynne Brown PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR Jenna Day DESIGNERS Jarred Shakespeare Sarah Pritchard Janelle Pike Phone: Fax: Email:
03 940 4732 0800 555 054 production@academy.net.nz
Disclaimer: This publication is provided on the basis that A-Mark Publishing is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. A-Mark Publishing expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2012 by A-Mark Publishing (NZ) Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.
ISSN 1173-1508 (Print) | ISSN 2230-6188 (Online)
www.magazinestoday.co.nz 4 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
18 Competition guidelines Conditions of entry: One entry only per person and must be sent on the official entry form or as otherwise stated. Entry is free and open to all residents of New Zealand. All entrants must be over the age of 18, proof of identity and date of birth may be requested. Employees and their immediate families of Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication are ineligible to enter. Winner(s) will be notified by email/phone. The judges’ decision is final, no correspondence will be entered into. No responsibility is accepted for late, lost or misdirected mail. Prizes are not transferable or redeemable for cash. Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever suffered (including but not limited to direct or consequential loss) or personal injury suffered or sustained, during the course of prize winning travel or in connection with any other prizes won. Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication accept no responsibility for health, luggage, insurances, travel, personal expenses and transfers other than specified. Entries remain the property of Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication and cannot be returned. Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication reserves the right to photograph and publish winners. Entries may be used for further marketing purposes by Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication but are not made available to any third party.
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IF YOU’D SIGNED THIS PETITION 6 MONTHS AGO, I MIGHT STILL BE ALIVE. Christie Marceau, 18, died on 7th November 2011 in her mother’s arms. The person charged with her murder was a 19 year old male. We can only refer to him as ‘the accused’. The accused was granted interim aname suppression until 18th April 2012. He was on bail at the time and was facing charges for kidnapping Christie just a couple of months before her death. The judge gave the accused bail after what he had done, despite strong police opposition. It is said that the police showed the judge a Google map to illustrate he was placing the accused just 350m from Christie’s home. Christie was terrified for her life. It is alleged that when he turned up to Christie’s home early that morning, the accused brutally stabbed her. Christie bled to death in her mother’s arms. The shock of Christie’s murder has resulted in an unprecedented public response and community action. Since her death, Christie’s devastated parents, Tracey and Brian Marceau have been working with friends and the Sensible Sentencing Trust to launch the petition. Christie’s Law petition was launched earlier this week on Monday, outside the High Court in Auckland. Over 1,000 people gathered to show their support. Unfortunately, we can’t turn the clock back, but imagine if this petition had been around 6 months ago and we had got 500,000 signatures. The politicians and judges would have sat up and listened to the voice of the people. Imagine if there was a public outcry because our bail laws have failed so many, like Augustine Borelle and Aalyagh Morrissey who was just a toddler. They too were murdered by violent offenders who were granted bail. Let us not forget Vanessa Pickering. The man who killed Vanessa was not long out of prison when he raped a woman only to be granted bail. And now, there’s Christie. Christie’s alleged killer has been charged with her murder, however Garth McVicar believes the judge’s decision placed the accused right back into our community and subsequently cost Christie her life. The judge has never been held responsible for his actions. Our petition aims to change that and make judges accountable for their actions. Judges are not above the law. We believe New Zealanders have the right to be safe. The vulnerable have the right to be protected. Did you know that 5,082 people were convicted for failing to answer Court bail orders in 2007? These are the latest figures supplied by the Minister of Justice after an Official Information Request. 1,313 of those people committed another crime while on bail. Christie is the latest victim. If you believe something needs to be done about our failed bail laws, here is your chance, for Christie’s sake.
So what can you do to help? MAKING CHANGES TO BAIL We are asking that police be given the power to appeal a judge’s decision to grant bail. This would automatically move the application to a higher court. We want you to support making the following amendments to the Bail Act: • No bail for defendants with a criminal history for an offence involving violence, which attracts a sentence of two years or more linked to; • No bail for any person accused of an offence involving serious violence as defined in the three strikes legislation. We also want you to support the reintroduction of meaningful bail bonds (not the current NO bond system that’s costing the tax payer over $300m per year): • NO bond, NO bail. • An automatic and immediate inquiry after every serious bail breach, similar to a police inquiry after a police shooting. • The views of the victims of any violent offence are given paramount consideration. MAKING CHANGES TO JUDICIARY At present, judges are a law unto themselves. There is no monitoring of them and they are not accountable for their decisions. This petition calls for an annual, publicly available performance review of judges, with the right of public recall on those proven to be consistently below par or found guilty of exposing the public to undue risk.
5 ways to help Christie’s Law mean something 1. Sign the Christie’s Law Petition in the coupon. 2. Talk to your friends, business colleagues and talk to your children and family about Christie’s Law. 3. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/christieslaw 4. Please visit the site and download the petition and ask your staff to sign it. Lead the way by signing it yourself. 5. Donate to Christie’s Law (see box below).
Please donate $20 to Christie’s Law. Simply call 0900 72 33 69 and your $20 donation will be made automatically – Thank you for your support and effecting change. HSE 2350 Christie FP Today Mags.indd 1
CHRISTIE’S LAW Petition Help us change the Bail Act
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY By signing this petition we call on the House of Representatives to enact the following: Name: 1. Immediately amend bail legislation Signature: to help prevent similar tragedies from ever occurring again and Address: ensure public safety is of paramount consideration at all times. 2. Instigate an annual performance Email: review of judges with the right of public recall for those who expose Name: the public to undue risk.
Make your signature count 1. Fill out all sections on the petition. 2. Photocopy petition or download it online at www.christieslaw.co.nz if you need more. 3. Free post completed petitions to
Dr. Jackie Blue Member of Parliament FREE POST Parliament Buildings WELLINGTON
Signature: Address:
Email: Name: Signature: Address:
Email:
This advertisement has been authorised by Garth McVicar of the Sensible Sentencing Trust. P.O. Box 701 Napier 4140. 5/03/12 1:50 PM
www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 5
Viewpoints | Editorial/Management
The reputation game By Jonathon Taylor
By Jonathon Taylor, editor for Magazines Today
As a bit of cricketing tragic, I followed the career of Chris Cairns with interest. When he called time on his international career, I doubt anyone questioned that, when on the park, he’d done anything other than give his all. So when I heard his name associated with match fixing I damn near fell off me chair!
The public airing of these accusations and insinuations did illustrate one thing very clearly - if you want to protect your good name, there’s probably no worse way to do so than with a libel suit.
It was a radio report on the libel action Cairns took, and won, against Indian Premier League founder Lalit Modi for a 2010 Twitter comment suggesting Cairns fixed matches in the ICL Twenty20 competition. Cairns’ case was that the allegation was ‘’wholly untrue’’ and a libel which would destroy what he had achieved in a 20 year career if uncorrected.
In his attempt to defend his name, Cairns damaged himself to a far greater extent than Modi ever did.
Without exception, everyone I’ve spoken to about this trial had no idea in the world Cairns had been accused of match fixing - until he began formally defending himself. Now you can’t blame a man for defending his reputation, especially if he’s convinced he’s been wronged, but if the defence does more damage to your reputation than the initial insult then you have to ask if it’s the wisest course of action. The general consensus on defamation cases is that there are simply no winners; both sides end up with slurred reputations due to the nature of the trial being one big slagging match. But if you throw enough mud, eventually some will stick and in the finest traditions of ‘where there’s smoke, there’s fire’ Cairns’ defamation suit brought to light a Pandora’s Box of goodies.
If all things go well, as they did for Cairns, you win the case and get given some money for the damages incurred. But this doesn’t even come close to repairing the damage your reputation has taken, ironically, during the case taken to protect that reputation.
The other aspect is just how easy it is to overstep the mark. The online world may have given a voice to any and all, but it pays to think before you tweet, because once your words are out there, there’s no taking them back. If someone’s really managed to tear your nightie, then the temptation to take an online swipe at them is near on irresistible, as it offers an instant retort to a perceived wrong. But before you start gleefully hurling globs of invective, take a deep breath, step away from the keyboard and consider that you may well be held accountable for your comments. Also these kinds of comments generally reveal more about you than they do of your subject. So either way, you’re more than likely to come out second best when you play the reputation game.
Kevin Vincent is a director of business improvement consultants Vincent and Nugent Limited - www.vincentnugent.co.nz
Strategic planning and management has moved from highly analytical operations to that of using a more inclusive, creative, thinking process that actively engages all stakeholders and individuals within the company.
Don’t just plan – think
This move recognises that people who are actively involved in the business and care about their organisation, can and do make valuable contributions to planning the company’s future.
My advice to CEO’s is; step back from the day-to-day tactical details of the business and focus on the “why”, not just the “what” and “how”.
The essential principle of strategic planning remains the same – it is about making choices – between cost and or quality. Its whole purpose is to equip companies with a process to better make those choices. The objectives are to find, develop and leverage competitive advantages that will enhance and sustain a company’s position and long term viability. In their book ‘Exploring Corporate Strategy’ Johnson and Scholes say that strategic decisions are concerned with: • The scope of organisation’s activities
The traditional methods of developing strategy have been usually led from the top i.e. CEO down and fewer considerations were made to those people below line management positions. The CEO has overall responsible for strategy formulation and must be able to see the big picture and take a longer range, broader business perspective.
CEO’s should encourage information flow and strategic conversations. This can be done through regular briefing meetings, staff training and development, encouraging communication and creating an organisational culture that embraces teamwork and co-operation. Always start with a clear statement of the organisation’s objectives so that provides the necessary focus to direct efforts and resist distractions or unnecessary digressions. Strategies must be developed from insights, foresight, considering scenarios of what is and what might be… trends, fresh ideas, creativity, and intuitive hunches.
• The matching of organisation’s activities to Organisations that actively involve their its environment people in the process of strategic planning • The matching of its activities to its will create a team with a greater ability and resource capability agility to change and adapt. • The allocation and or reallocation of major An immediate benefit will be in achieving resources in an organisation a unified acceptance of the action plans. • The values, expectations and goals of those influencing strategy
Secondly your colleagues will know you value their opinions and ideas.
• The direction the organisation will move in There is a link – good ideas, planning and prompt implementations do lead to increased the long term profitability. The ability to predict and control • Implications for change throughout the your business future is a prize worth chasing. organisation – they are therefore likely to be complex in nature
From former Indian Cricket League anticorruption officer Howard Beer saying he had “no doubts” Cairns was involved in match-fixing, to four former team mates who testified to Cairns’ guilt, and the $100,000 paid into a Dubai bank account in 2008 for work with a rough-diamond trader’s business for which Cairns could produce no documentation.
Strategic planning is actually deciding on which strategy is best for the organisation to adopt, planning how that strategy can be put in to effect. Strategic management is the doing – actually making the plan happen.
Can you sell? If so, we want you ! 6 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
Strategic management for the modern company
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Viewpoints | Finance/IP
Savers and investors still getting it wrong
Dispelling urban myths around trademarks
Alan Clarke is an authorised financial adviser with 24 years experience in the finance sector
It is well known, or should be, that successful savers and investors “buy in gloom and sell in boom”. Yet right now fear abounds, with too many Kiwisavers in cash funds, and investors are scurrying to their banks, or sticking their money under the bedcovers. The question is maybe - why you would invest outside cash or banks? The answer is probably “needs must”. A conservative to balanced portfolio over time is likely to make two percent more per year than a deposit at a bank. So $100,000 at two percent pa more than cash/bank equals $2,000 pa.
What about $2,000 pa over 20 years equals $40,000 more than cash in a bank! Most people, especially when retired, need this extra return. Some people prefer do-it-yourself, but research shows that DIY investors in the US from 1998 to 2008 made 3.9 percent pa, whereas holding the top 500 shares (the S& P 500) made nine percent pa (Dalbar Research). That’s right, by just holding the market, some investors made double what the active DIY investor made. Research indicates that no one can consistently forecast markets, exchange rates, economic events, or pick shares/stocks. There are plenty of people around who infer that they can, with glossy brochures and sometimes lots of (not so easy to see) fees. 2012 forecasts and reality The general view expressed by the media in December and January was “buckle up, 2012 promises scant comfort for investors”. Yet markets in 2012 have opened strongly.
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institutions and lenders think things are getting better. In the US data shows signs of a turnaround with an improvement in employment, manufacturing orders and a climb in consumer confidence. In addition US companies and many others around the world reacted to the global credit crunch by cutting every cost they could. It is of course Europe that is scaring everyone. Will Europe solve its problems? The general consensus seems to be that Europe will muddle through. Just as it would be wrong to assume all is now fine in the global economy, investors would have been just as wrong to listen to the media in December and January, and miss out on the good opening returns in 2012. However a prudent person might say “I want to feel my way rather than jumping in” - fair comment.
Not much?
Why such a good start? Europe can hardly be described as being out of the woods, but various creditor agreements over Greece has eased nerves. Recently Spain and Italy have been able to borrow at lower interest rates than in late 2011, a sign that the big
Angela Searle is a trademark attorney for Trade Mark Intelligence who works with both SMEs and global corporations
There is a simple strategy that every investor can use - “dollar cost averaging”. Invest progressively at say $200, $500, $5,000 per month, or $1,000, $5,000, $10,000 every three months. There are lots of variations of this strategy can be used. Every investor should, at the outset, establish his or her risk profile and then use an asset allocation (the proportions of bonds to shares) and stick to it. A conservative to balanced investor might be 60 percent in bonds and 40 percent in shares. Summary • Most of us need a higher return from our money, and much more diversification too • Don’t wait for good times, and pay dearly. Be prudent and “average in” • Properly structured savings and investments can also double as emergency funds • Beware of advice driven by commissions • Long term Kiwisaver members should look at moving to a growth or balanced portfolio.
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Your trademark is potentially one of your most valuable business assets – the ability to use it, unimpeded, is something many of us take for granted. Yet, if you have not registered your trade mark – your brand name, then you leave yourself wide open for someone else to swipe it from underneath you. In this article I will shed light on some of the myths and misconceptions that exist around trademarks. I have heard that you get rights to a trade mark through use – so why should I go to the effort of registering a trademark? Yes, you do get rights to a trademark through use, if you can demonstrate that you have built a reputation under that name or mark. The question is – what is a reputation? How far does it extend? And how can you prove it? It’s a subjective argument and one that will cost you a huge amount of money to fight if someone else comes in and uses or registers a mark the same or similar. For example, you could be a Christchurch company trading for many years, servicing the local community - if a Dunedin company started to use or registered the same trademark, they probably can, as your reputation probably is not a strong one in other parts of South Island. If you have registered your name, then you have a certificate proving your nationwide exclusivity to that mark. Does a trademark registration allow me to stop someone using a similar trademark – or just the identical mark? The answer is based around whether a consumer would be deceived or confused by the same/similar mark. Similarity comes in two guises – in simple terms, the first is around the marks’ visual, phonetic and conceptual similarity. The other is around
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If another trader used a phonetically similar mark, then you probably would be able to stop them. I own a successful bakery in a small community. I am the only one in town and I trade under the name ‘The Bakery’. Can I trademark that name? Every trademark must distinguish a service or product from those provided by other traders. Because the word bakery is a descriptive and generic term, so you cannot register it and prevent others using it. You also cannot register as a trademark a geographical location, common surnames or superlatives, such as beautiful, best or greatest. For example, you could not register Whangarei Bakery, Smiths’ Bakery or The Freshest Bakery. To uniquely distinguish your product or service from others, invented words can be used or standard words that have no relationship to the goods/services. So in the example of the bakery, by adding an invented word into the title – let’s say Breagal Bakery, or ordinary words such as Blue Skies Bakery, you would then have a distinctive mark to register. I can register a trademark myself – why would I use a lawyer? Do you file your own tax returns? Would you write your own will? Registering a mark is the same. Yes you can do it, but it’s a case of you don’t know what you don’t know. If you get it wrong, you might not know until someone challenges you or tries to steal your mark out from under you…they might even succeed! Many self-filers also go wrong by defining their goods/services too narrowly therefore not allowing them scope to expand the breath of their goods or services being provided under their existing mark – or by filing an application to register a logo, whereas they would obtain much stronger protection if just the word mark was registered. Registering your mark is like insurance – it protects your good name. The name you have worked hard to establish. A professional puts you in the strongest possible position, now and into the future.
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OR PHONE 0800 4 TODAY (0800 486 329) www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 7
Viewpoints | HR/Working Life
Keeping young workers on point Eva-Maria is an author and certified coach who specialises in the relationships between adults and teenagers
With the start of the year, many companies would have acquired a number of younger employees. The bad news is they will only keep getting younger as they come into your industry. The good news is that this generation can be one of the easiest to deal with… when you know how to. The fact they are younger means they can be quicker at doing tasks, because of one key element: their energy. Many employers I’ve talked to credit quality and pace of work of younger employees to the energy, they have to keep going. The question is: how can you find this potential energy, and gear it towards meeting your workplace’s goals and work load? Here are a few thoughts around how you can keep the company’s younger employees’ productivity intact over the year. Set targets Many times, I consult with companies where their younger people are under-utilised because they can sometimes perform and adapt new skills faster than other employees. In the past, perhaps you’ve noticed some of them ‘slacking off’ while they claim all their work is ‘finished’, or they’re ‘on track’.
can go up. It’s a culture you can put in throughout the year, and it’s a win-win because it gives young people not only motivation to work towards goals, but a chance for them to belong to a team, meaning less chances of them dropping the ball – because they want to get the year over and done with! Turn the working year into a time-frame to pump out the most work. Keep the discipline intact, but allow leeway Don’t give staff the special treatment all day just because you ‘understand’ they’re busy with their social/family lives/commitments. Work is work, so make sure you’re sticking to the rules (or a Code of Conduct you might have in your office) that everyone is aware of. Like a common parenting principle, if you don’t stick to the rule you set once, your kids are more likely to keep bending the rules because they think they can get away with it. Having said that, if you can allow for some extra leeway during the year, give these as rewards for target achievement, or recognition. An example could be, to give them an extra 10 or 15 minutes lunch break. It might sound simple, but they will appreciate the ‘gift’.
Have a look to see they in fact have enough work. Boredom can set in easily for young people and they won’t be the ones to come to you to ask for more tasks. Young people of today think in achievement milestones, rather than time. So, instead of sticking to the ‘you need to be working X hours on this project’, give them milestones they can achieve. Get them on-board At your next team meeting, present the targets and results you want to achieve before your yearly quarter, or before a given number of months is up, and get everyone’s buy-in to get it done as individuals and as a team. Young people’s competitiveness may set in to do jobs faster and as long as it’s friendly, you will be amazed at how much productivity
Emotional-health goals must be your priority Dr Mary Casey is the founder and CEO of the Casey Centre, a leading integrated health and education service
A healthier diet and regular exercise are arguably the most common personal aspirations, but improving your emotional and mental health shouldn’t be ignored, because exercise, diet and other tangible goals are then easier to meet. The reason we make resolutions in the first place is to be happier, more creative, more aware of our direction in life and improve our sense of wellbeing. Arguably the largest obstacles to these are negative emotional states. Negative emotions are hugely toxic to our health. It’s now commonly accepted that holding onto stress, resentment, anger and fear for years at a time can lead to a myriad of health problems, including high blood pressure, thyroid diseases, hair loss and heart disease. In fact, it has become accepted by health professionals that most diseases in some way have a stress-related component. It’s surprising, then, that more of us don’t focus on improving our state of mind. My top seven resolutions for 2012 1. Prioritise your happiness and health. It’s important to decide for your health and happiness as number one. As simple as it sounds, if you don’t have these, you are not in a position to contribute to others or yourself. Everything stems from here. 2. Spend more time with the right people. Rather than resolving to spend more time with everyone – which can be exhausting – spend time with people who are naturally positive and uplifting, and who are going in the direction you want to go in. You’ll find these people have an energising effect on you.
with family. You may need to disengage altogether from particularly toxic people. Your health will thank you for it. 4. Reassess your happiness at work. This is must for those in negative work culture that’s leaving them feeling overworked, uncertain of their future, anxious or stressed. It’s important to know that as an employee you can address the issue with your manager. If you know you can’t, it may be time to look for a healthier work environment. 5. Review your daily routine. It takes courage to admit there are decisions we ourselves make that deflate us emotionally – from accepting a job with a long work commute, to running around too much, to not giving ourselves enough ‘down’ time every day, to spending too much and putting ourselves in financial stress. By resolving to develop a strategy to solve them, you can be in an entirely different place by the end of 2012. And you’ll be glad for it. 6. Don’t let any negative emotions control you. Negative emotions – however small – can overwhelm anything positive. Resolve to develop awareness of when you’re feeling upset or frustrated before it spoils your day. Examine what can you do personally to make yourself feel better? Each time you begin to feel down, take a walk in the park or go out in the sun to help centre you. Nature and movement nurture positive emotions. 7. Strengthen your relationships. Deep and meaningful relationships, not just with your life partner, but with all those close to you, are important for a fulfilling life. Make a list of all the factors you need for a meaningful relationship, identify what you do not want, and stick to your guns.
3. Deal with toxic relationships. You can identify relationships by the way they make you feel. Stand your ground, set your boundaries and make it clear to them what behaviour you won’t accept – even
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Viewpoints | Business Online/Technology
Should I have a blog on my website?
Philips Fidelio DS9000
Ian Knott has been commentating on various forms of technology for the last 16 years. He’s had columns on gadgets, gaming, computing and digital entertainment in many newspapers, magazines and websites in New Zealand and overseas.
Suzanne Carter is the business development manager for Limelight Online Ltd, a website design and development company, visit www.limelightonline.co.nz
This is a common conundrum so the aim of this column is to put forward the case as to why having a blog on your website is important to your business. A blog provides you and your business with an opportunity to share your expertise and knowledge of your industry and your product/service. It is a good way to gain and enhance your trustworthiness and credibility to existing and potential customers.
your product or service online. This will help with allowing your blog to show in search results for relevant search queries. Another tip is to try not to include too much jargon or industry terminology, particularly if your target audience is not likely to understand what you are talking about. Writing for your audience is very important. If you include reference to your products or services, then you should include a link to the relevant section of your website so readers can find out more.
It can also be used as a way of providing news about your company or general news about your industry.
If you do decide to have a blog on your site and follow the above tips the results will speak for themselves.
Blogging really is a great way to interact and engage with your customers and potential customers online. If you send out newsletters a good idea is to add some introduction text to your blog topic and then link to your website so that it can be read in full.
Is social media worth the effort?
Allow the ability for people to add comments to your blog as this just increases customer engagement. The other reason why it is important to have a blog on your site is because it helps with the visibility of your website in search engines such as Google. Basically, search engines love fresh content on a site and monitor the frequency of content updates. This means having a blog is a great way to have regular, new content showing on your site. Having quality and informative blog entries also means that you increase your likelihood of building backlinks to the blog itself. And this, from a search engine optimisation perspective, is an all important part of helping to make your site more visible to search engines. If you do have a blog, or decide to integrate one into your website, it is important to blog regularly – once a month at a minimum. Of course this can raise time issues for busy business people, so, rather than take on the task yourself, why not ask other staff members to contribute to the blog as well. When writing a blog try and remember to include keywords - these are the words that people are likely to use when looking for
Thousands of companies have jumped aboard the social media movement, as it allows you to reach out and engage with a wider audience than you perhaps could with offline forms of marketing. This in turn can help with driving more business. Think of it as the modern day version of ‘word-ofmouth’. Friends or followers are easily able to give feedback on products or services and feedback is valuable to a business. If it’s bad feedback you can work to fix the problem, if it’s good you can thank people accordingly. There are so many people in New Zealand and across the world that you might not normally have the opportunity to reach out to. Social media allows businesses to do this relatively easily through a few simple Facebook posts or Tweets. Great customer service is key to creating a great company. If someone expresses a problem with a product or service via social media platforms, you can engage with them in real time to try and resolve the issue, before too much bad ‘word of mouth’ gets out. Businesses need to be aware of what is happening in their industry and what competitors are doing - social media allows you to track the competition. Getting started on social media may be quite daunting at first but it can soon become fun and develop into an integral part of your marketing plan.
The iPod speaker dock market is a saturated one to say the least. A glance in any garden-variety electronics store will see a bevy of low-end speakers designed for teenager’s bedrooms and glorified alarm clock-radios for the bedsides of the more technologically savvy grown-ups among us.’ But what about the higher-end of the market? I stop short of mentioning ‘audiophiles’ at this point, because a true ‘audiophile’ would shiver in their turtleneck sweater while hiding behind their purposebuilt rack system at the thought of listening to an MP3, let alone a speaker dock. No, I’m talking about decent quality and stylish hardware that caters for those of us who love the convenience and portability of our digital music collection and want to utilise the content of our iDevice around home, for parties and chilling out on hazy Sunday mornings. Philips might not be a brand that one might automatically gravitate to when it comes to audio equipment, but from a personal standpoint I can’t honestly say that I’ve ever had a Philips product break down on me or fail to live up to promises or expectations. Philips has a new range of eye-catching (or should that be iCatching) speaker docks. The big kahuna of the Philips Fidelio range is the DS9000 – and an impressive looking, and performing piece of kit it is too. The DS9000 meant to be on display in your lounge – it’s a conversation starter, yet effortlessly blends in with any décor. The smooth, wooden rear is made using a process called ‘veneer lamination’ which forms multiple layers of lacquered plywood together to produce a stiff and weighty structure, reducing any internal vibration. The rounded shape also eliminates any internal sound reflection. Precisely tuned bass pipes at the rear deliver tight bass performance at any volume level.
feed Matchbox cars and half-eaten biscuits. It reduces interference between the left and right speakers, which in turn are covered by a standard black mesh. The front of the unit has proximity sensitive volume buttons that light up blue when a hand comes close to them and a spring-loaded, standard iPod connection. IPods or iPhones slot straight on to the connector, even with cases or bumpers attached and will charge while playing your music. The DS9000 also accommodates iPads, and they look quite impressive, but attaching them isn’t an easy feat due to the curvature of the iPad’s edge where the charging port is. It takes a bit of patience to hold the springloaded connector forward while you slot the iPad onto it. While you don’t need it, there is a free downloadable app, DockStudio, which acts as an interface while your iDevice is attached. You can control your music and it will also display a clock and the local weather. The DS9000 can envelop a room with balanced and detailed sound with impressive ease. The high-grade passive crossovers between its dual 25mm tweeters and 100mm mid/bass-drivers eliminate any distortion, even at organ-liquefying volume levels. Strangely enough, the DS9000 does not support Bluetooth audio streaming like the other models in the Fidelio range, which seems out of place with the common ethos that the top-end product should include every possible feature. It’s not a deal-breaker though. The unit comes with a nicely crafted remote control that allows full control of any feature, but iPod Touches, iPhones and iPads will require the DockStudio app for this to work. At $699.95, the DS9000 is up there in terms of luxury items, but as an alternative to an expensive component system and for pure convenience without sacrificing too much quality, this, along with the whole Fidelio range is hard not to recommend.
The central gap also has a specific purpose apart from somewhere for your toddler to
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Viewpoints | Fronting Up
News | Events Diary
A fate worse than death
Events diary FRIDAY MAY 11
Karen Degen is the owner of Set Free with EFT, a company that focuses on changing mindsets to create business success
A study of peoples’ worst fears placed death at number seven. It seems we find at least six things to be far worse than death, with the most feared of all being speaking to a group. Countless surveys and studies over the years have placed the fears in different order, but the number one fear never changes – fear of public speaking. The vast majority of professional roles involve some level of public speaking, from participating in meetings to giving presentations to clients. It’s rare for a professional to divulge this fear to their employers so it goes undetected and untreated, with the result being ongoing inferior performance in this area, or complete avoidance of the situation. It is quite common for someone to call in sick on the day of a presentation. One size does not fit all when it comes to treating this problem. It’s essential to look beneath the fear and find the contributing factors. One common contributor is the loathing many sufferers have of being looked at or being the focus of attention. Underneath this will be yet another contributing factor, often the fear of being judged or falling short of the task. Underpinning this will be the core issue, which will be unique to the individual, as we all have different life experiences. Often the only way to find it is to seek professional help. If you prefer to self diagnose, one of the best ways is to ask yourself “why” five times. For instance: Why am I feeling this way about speaking to this group? Answer: I don’t like being the focus of attention. Why don’t I like being the focus of attention? Answer: Because I feel scrutinized. Like they are thinking I’m not good enough. Why will they be thinking I’m not good enough? Answer: Because I’m not good enough and I know they see that.
Microsoft Excel II Workshop – Auckland Chamber of Commerce This course introduces Excel features that save you time. It is designed for those who spend many hours formatting and updating spreadsheets. The workshop is aimed at a person already proficient in the fundamentals of using Excel. To register go to www.aucklandchamber.co.nz
Why do I believe I’m not good enough?
FRIDAY MAY 11
Answer: Because I got sent away to boarding school when I was nine.
An hour with Witi Ihimaera – Auckland Writers and Readers Festival Ihimaera talks to friend and colleague Dame Fiona Kidman, who wrote the introduction to the recent 40th anniversary edition of Ihimaera’s very first book, Pounamu. For more information www.writersfestival.co.nz
Why do I think that means I’m not good enough? Answer: Because they didn’t send my sister and brother, only me. I’m the only one they didn’t keep so I can’t have been wanted. I can’t have been good enough. Of course this is a very simplistic way of looking at it and the human psyche is rarely simplistic. Often there are multiple core issues. Sometimes the core issue is a time we have failed in front of other people in the past, often in childhood. A memory from childhood can seem unimportant in adulthood and often carries no obvious emotion when it’s brought to mind, but the complex human brain can make connections at a subconscious level. The thought of speaking to a group can subconsciously trigger emotions connected with that event, impacting on the ability to speak effectively, or at all. For many it is not something as obvious as having given a poor speech in childhood. Far more common with sufferers is a situation in the past when they got something wrong and everyone looked at them. The feelings of embarrassment and humiliation remain in the subconscious mind waiting to be triggered by the next time they are looked at by a group of people. That ‘group of people’ may be any situation where more than one person is present. If more than 40 percent of people rank their worst fear as speaking to a group, it’s likely that someone in your workforce is hampered by it, and if they are hampered by it so is your business. In a professional environment people are generally unwilling to admit to this fear. According to Mark Twain however; “There are two types of speakers: those that are nervous and those that are liars.”
THURSDAY MAY 17 - 24 Managing People to Give their Best Auckland Chamber of Commerce Learn tips, skills and approaches to creating effective team dynamics that markedly improve the productivity of your team. Gain insight into staff behaviour and learn how to better manage the complexities of people. To register go to www.aucklandchamber.co.nz
MONDAY MAY 21 Product Marketing Tips – Manukau Institute of Technology From marketing planning and marketing research, to branding and public relations, product marketing must constantly adapt to highly competitive and constantly changing
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WEDNESDAY MAY 23 Overcoming Stress – Auckland Chamber of Commerce Take a refreshing look at the everyday pressures everyone faces and discover practical strategies for moving ahead with ease and effectiveness. To register go to www.aucklandchamber.co.nz
THURSDAY MAY 24 –26
The Primary Sector Conference – New Zealand Institute of Chartered Acountants A compelling programme has been organised The Afghan War – Auckland Writers and including presentations by the Minister for Readers Festival Primary Industries, the Hon David Carter as Rolling Stone journalist Michael Hastings’s well as leading commentators and business piece on the US troops in Afghanistan leaders. There are many challenges ahead resulted in the removal of General Stanley McChrystal, the head of command of the US for the primary sector including a high and international forces by President Obama. exchange rate, environmental concerns, tax and legislative changes and a growing public Hastings has since written a concern for foreign land ownership. Help your book. The Operators which reveals clients or your own organisation navigate more about the story of the American war through the coming years by attending this in Afghanistan. two and a half day conference. To register go He is joined by the author of Other People’s to www.nzica.com Wars (2011), Nicky Hagar for a discussion st with Stephen Hoadley on this 21 century war and the involvement of both the TUESDAY JUNE 19 United States and New Zealand. For more information go to New and Aspiring Directors lunch – www.writersfestival.co.nz Institute of Directors
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business contexts. In Product Marketing tips, a practical one day course, you will learn how to keep your products at the cutting edge. Learn new marketing and sales planning techniques, gain insights into consumer behaviour trends and review how to best research and reach your customers. Go to www.manukau.ac.nz to register.
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What’s happening on the business and entertainment front
For members who aspire to directorships but are unsure on how to promote and equip themselves for the position. Learn the governance basics via the principles of best practice for New Zealand. To register go to www.iod.org.nz
WEDNESDAY JUNE 20 & 27 Successful Negotiation Skills – Auckland Chamber of Commerce A skilled negotiator has an edge over the competition. Conducting a successful negotiation is by no means a simple task, but by knowing successful ways to open, conduct and close a negotiation you are much more likely to secure a beneficial outcome for your business. To register go to www.aucklandchamber.co.nz
News | Property
Putting in the groundwork Commercial property, the alternative to residential
I have always been surprised by how some people react when I suggest they should investigate commercial property investment because it provides a very a good alternative to residential investment. It’s “too complicated”, they say. Or “too hard to understand” is another common response, as well as fear of vacancies with a consequent loss of income.
Or how about Greece, where matters are just as bad? They too have a capital gains tax, but it will likely only create tax credits for years to come. The call for a capital gains tax in this country is supposedly to encourage investors to put their spare funds into “more productive investments”. But again, I am still waiting to hear what, exactly, these more productive assets are.
We all know the advantages of residential property and they are persuasive, that has to be said, but let me give you some of the disadvantages — just for the sake of the argument.
Another problem with residential property as a landlord is the bothersome control over the market by bureaucracy and the well meaning but cumbersome Tenancy Tribunal. I would be the first to agree that tenants need some form of protection, and we probably do need some form of third party control by way of a tribunal, but the system should allow tenants and landlords to agree to opt out of the system if both parties so choose.
The main problem with residential is that it’s ‘political’ in every sense of the word. From one day to the next there is a steady drum beat criticising those who own or invest in residential property. The media run one story after another on overcrowding, shortage of rentals, rising rents, unfair profits and lately pressure to introduce a capital gains tax or reduce so-called ‘tax rorts’.
Why should expensive homes, for instance, be subject to government control in regard to bonds or rents? Parties to high-end properties hardly need a government watchdog to breathe down their necks. And what law applies in the case where a property is rented out fully-furnished as many are? The current bond limitation is totally inadequate to cover damage in this instance.
It’s no wonder that there is a growing rental crisis and increasing homelessness, all aided and abetted by the recent tax disadvantages which have, as expected, had the exact opposite effect from what was intended.
There’s no doubt that, if done correctly, and with due diligence and forethought, residential investment can be very profitable mainly because it’s (supposedly) understandable, easy to finance with the aid of mortgages and is happily used by banks as security when advancing other loans - especially for further residential investments or business use. But there are great advantages for those who make the effort to understand commercial property.
Yes, I agree, residential property is the more “liquid” of the two forms of investment, but successful residential investment is, in my view, the hardest subject to master by a country mile.
All this was predicted by me for over a year or more. And let me quietly tell you something else, in the strictest confidence. Draw close, I don’t want to shout. As the rental crisis grows, especially with the approach of winter, be prepared for more headlines and yet more controls on residential rents. You have been warned. On the subject of capital gains tax, I have yet to see a skerrick of evidence showing what a capital gains tax would achieve. Yes, it does exist in other countries but such taxes did absolutely nothing to stop runaway property booms (and busts) in the USA, Europe or Australia … just to name a few. In the news at present time, we learn about the troubles in Spain and Greece where the foreclosures (mortgagee sales in our parlance) are staggering and getting worse by the minute. Spain already has a capital gains tax. To call it complex is a gross understatement.
The upsides Commercial property has become far more popular in recent years and rightly so for the following reasons: (a) There are no controls from any outside body so long as parties act reasonably. (b) You can charge whatever rent and whatever terms you and your tenant mutually agree upon. (c ) You can ask for any bond you like — again as may be mutually agreed upon. (d) You can evict bad tenants rapidly under the terms of the lease with little or no outside interference. (e) The only control that exists is the lease that is agreed between you and the tenant and that can be varied as when it suits.
Olly Newland
Property Consultant Impartial, expert guidance
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By Olly Newland
(f) Depreciation allowances are often higher than on residential especially for fittings and fixtures. Even more importantly, depending on the lease, your commercial tenant pays for all the out-goings as well, such as rates, water and insurance. Commonly these are spelt out in the lease (i.e. a net lease) but if not then these costs are built into the rent (i.e. a gross lease). Either way, the tenant pays, which makes your returns that much better. A few years ago the traditional return on the average commercial property (whether retail, office or industrial) was around 10 percent. For example a property valued at $500,000 would pay a net rental of $50,000 per annum after payment of all outgoings. Over the past few years this return has fallen dramatically, to as low as five percent plus. I suspect it will go even lower for prime properties in the future. In other words, lower and lower yields mean that investors are paying more and more to buy a certain income stream. In the example above, where the net income is $50,000, investors could now well be prepared to pay almost twice as much as before, especially if the property was good. At a 5.5 percent yield the same property would be worth over $900,000. Not a bad return if you play your cards right - and a darn sight easier than slogging away with a bunch of slum properties filled with druggies and misfits. The trick is to find commercial property which can genuinely be “improved” so that is goes up in value - no matter what inflation or deflation are doing. A little study and perseverance can find these deals and often such value increases can be achieved in short order with little more than a stroke of a pen. My team and I recently assisted a client buying a run-down block of shops. With a little expense, and our constant advice we pushed the value up from $1.4 million (being the purchase price) to an estimated value if $2 million - all done within six months from date of purchase and while collecting the rent at the same time. And just to prove the point that it wasn’t just wishful thinking on our part, this particular block was on-sold at auction for $1.95 million which was just a whisker under its estimated value. These sales are further compelling evidence that prices have moved strongly upwards as compared with the more traditional values of a few years ago. They are a harbinger of things to come.
To me and others who follow the commercial market these results are truly astounding, but interestingly, so far there hasn’t been a peep about this in the media. If residential sales results showed similar rises in values in today’s financial climate the headlines would be screaming and the calls would be coming in thick and fast to introduce new taxes and other “disincentives” (i.e. punishments) for investors who dare make such gains. Interestingly, the prices obtained are not that far away from those achieved for the average mum, dad and the three kids, residential properties in the Auckland region (slum-boxes excepted), but as the subject is commercial, it has no sex appeal and it’s therefore not a headline grabber. “Commercial Property Prices Rise Dramatically” will never be found on page three of any newspaper. That’s fine for us in the business, thank you very much. We prefer it that way actually. There are more such deals out there just waiting to be found as many commercial property owners are still asleep at the wheel. Before long investors will wake up to what is happening — so now is the time to start learning all about the subject. If you are tired of the stress that residential tenants can give — not to mention poor returns, mounting repairs or vexatious complaints — then the commercial property market is just the right place for you. You could become a part of this very fascinating multi-billion dollar investment niche — an area where big profits can be quietly made providing you know what you are looking for and obtain a good working knowledge in conjunction with impartial advice. With more than 45 years in the property game, Olly Newland provides a consulting and mentoring service for people committed to make serious progress with property investments. Whether it be buying, selling, holding or troubleshooting. If you’re interested in knowing more, visit Olly’s webpage at www.ollynewland.co.nz
Get skilled advice on residential and commercial property investment from Olly Newland, reknowned property expert, author & Authorised Financial Advisor. Purchasing, selling & managing property.
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Cover Story | Dave Currie
’s champion champion The
On the eve of his final Olympic mission, Dave Currie talks to Karen Pasco about the state of the Games and those who play them.
He is a former national wrestler and Black Cap team manager, granddad, mountain biker, cancer survivor and describes himself as having a “misplaced degree of optimism”. New Zealand Olympic games chef de mission Dave Currie is enthralled with life. It was September 2, 1960. On this particular early spring day, a momentous occasion was about to take place. Schoolboy Dave Currie was sitting at his desk along with the others in his class, tuned in to the radio which was transmitting the happenings in Rome. This was the day New Zealand Olympic athletes Peter Snell (800m) and Murray Halberg (5000m) would win gold medals at the Rome Olympics within half an hour of each other – a momentous occasion in New Zealand’s sporting history. It is a day that is etched into the memory of Dave, now head of the New Zealand Olympic team in his role as chef de mission. He describes it as his Olympic serendipity. “It really had an impact on me. I remember going to the pictures and seeing it all.” What he didn’t realise then is that 40 years later, when in his role with the Murray Halberg Trust, he would accompany those two athletes to Rome when they returned to recount their memories of that very day.
The job Although many know what Currie’s present job title is, there are not many who understand what the role entails. “I remember when I got the job my granddaughter asked me what I was going to cook for everybody,” he jokes. The English translation is head of mission, how he describes it is general manager of the team, the “leader of the delegation”. 12 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
His role means he wears many hats; negotiator, diplomat, project manager, leader, decision maker, co-ordinator, team builder, communicator, motivator and liaison. His job is to ensure each athlete has the best possible environment to reach their goals and to bring the sporting codes together as a team. “What we’ve got is 17 sports. All of them come with their own culture and have distinct ways they operate. What we’ve got to do is wrap that all into a strong and secure New Zealand team.” Currie had always wanted to attend an Olympic Games – as a competitor. It was as a marathon runner he thought he had the best chance, but not starting until he was about 40 and unable to crack the 2hr 20 minute mark, meant it was not achievable. He arrived at the chef de mission position through a history of sporting roles. From 1987 to 1997 he was the race director of Ironman, for 17 years the executive director for the Murray Halberg Trust and latterly the Black Caps’ team manager. In 1988 he was asked to run as a guide for a blind marathon runner at the Seoul Olympics. Through this he became involved in sports for the disabled and got the job as president of New Zealand Paralympics and was asked to take the team to Sydney in 2000. He had seen the chef de mission job advertised but didn’t apply. Aware that previous chef de missions Les Mills and Dave Gerrard had both been Olympians, he thought he would not meet the hiring criteria. Then someone strongly recommended to him that it might be worth his while. “I was pretty pragmatic they didn’t really have too many applicants so I got it.”
The lows So for the past decade Currie has worked on developing a culture within the team, as well as carrying out a tremendous amount of behind-the-scenes work to ensure each campaign has run as smoothly as possible. His biggest challenge, without a doubt, was the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India. The uncertainty of whether venues or accommodation would be ready in time was frustrating and caused much anxiety in the lead up. “It was incredibly close to the wire that we just weren’t going to bring athletes and we were just going to pull out. I was on conference calls for an hour a day with the New Zealand diplomat in India in the leadup,” he says. “What is funny though is when the athletes arrived they kept saying ‘what was all the fuss about’.” Currie believes that the Commonwealth Games need to return to the games of old and stop trying to replicate the Olympics, which is putting countries in huge debt. “There used to be 2000 athletes go to the Commonwealth’s, now there are between 6000 and 7000. We need to get it back to a manageable size. Very few countries can afford to hold them now because they’ve just become too huge and big and costly.”
Cover Story | Dave Currie
The highs The highlights of previous Olympic and Commonwealth Games is certainly seeing the medal-winning performances of athletes. Currie has huge respect for athletes who have devoted 10, 15 or even 20 years to reach the point where they are on the world platform. “I’ve been privileged of being at every medal performance of New Zealanders since the Sydney Paralympics. To be there and be with groups of New Zealanders when athletes perform is just extraordinary.” He scrolls off the names of some of those athletes who provided the magic - Sarah Ulmer, Hamish Carter, Valerie Villi and the Evers-Swindell twins – those who showed the determination to dedicate their lives to their sport and also the courage to pit themselves against the world’s best with millions around the world watching – and still come first. He vividly remembers Valerie Villi at Beijing, her strength and her absolute focus. “She walked into the stadium and stared down her competitors. She walked out almost knowing that she’d won. She had the appearance that it was her domain and her space and she really kicked butt. It was probably the most determined performance I’ve ever seen.”
The team There are 200 athletes and 100 support staff (including managers and coaches) in the New Zealand Olympic team travelling to London for this year’s Games. Currie has travelled to Old Blighty four times in the past two years to ensure the relationship between the organising committee and the New Zealand team is strong, to see the progress of the living and sport environments and understand what it will be like for athletes and staff when they arrive. He then conveys that information back to the athletes and staff. “Athletes will put up with anything as long as they know what to expect.” One of this year’s challenges is having the New Zealanders split up around the United Kingdom. The Olympic Village is, for the first time, right next door to the Olympic Park in Stratford, East London, but the rowers will be based at Eton Dorney, the sailors
at Weymouth and the men’s and women’s football teams will be playing at different venues dotted around the UK. In order to make sure team unity is maintained Currie says it is important to make all athletes feel included. “It’s not easy but we will go to all the outlying venues and welcome them into the team separately. We’ll also use newsletters, Facebook and Skype and texting. When they finish competition, they will come up to the main village anyway. Every member in the team wants to come and share and be part of that group.”
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I remember when I got the job my granddaughter asked me what I was going to cook for everybody
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country which has been forged by the arrival of different immigrants during the past 800 years. We’ve all been brought together in a special way to create a united society with strong respect for each other.”
the team. “New Zealanders are unique we get out in the world and demand to do well. Peter Jackson, our scientists there’s so many people - we just want to carry on that strong tradition.”
This year New Zealand has managed to secure its very own nine storey apartment block that will house just the Kiwis. Integral to the teambuilding, including the “One Team, One Spirit” ideal of the team, is the distinct decoration of the apartment block. In previous years the New Zealand athletes’ home away from home has been the envy of other nations. In Beijing it was banners of ferns and photos of previous New Zealand Olympic greats that adorned the walls and provided inspiration.
It is just not the nation which has changed since 1948 - the athletes also have a far different experience. As an example he tells the story of New Zealand backstroker Ngaire Galloway, who qualified for the 1948 London Games.
The website also allows supporters to get a chance to mingle in the thoughts of competitors. Blogs are posted by athletes, and even Currie’s messages to the team are there for all to see – providing a window into a world normally closed off – a sharp marketing ploy to rouse the masses and engage them on what Currie and every New Zealander hopes will be a successful month of competition
Currie remains tight-lipped about how Aotearoa will be reflected in the New Zealand camp. He does admit that in the 40ft container which is shipping sports equipment, supplements and special athlete requirements to the Games, there are also beanbags, coffee makers and “other” decorations.
After organising her chaperone, they arrived at the ship in Auckland only to find there was no swimming pool on board. She had the builder create a paddling pool she could use during the six-week journey to at least give her legs a kick-out. Ngaire overcame the odds and although she didn’t win a medal, Currie says her story of determination is one that is used to motivate the team.
The village
Although it is important to foster the team spirit, Currie says it’s a careful balance between that and getting the athletes hyped up. “What they want when they get there is to train, eat, rest, train, sleep. We don’t want people fired up. They’re in a supportive environment, we want them to focus and do the job they’re there to do. We can celebrate when it’s all over.”
The past He believes the evolution of New Zealand since the last London Games in 1948 is incredible. “In 1948 we were still pretty much an economy of Britain – we’re no longer like that. We’re a strong, united people, a
About a week before she was due to leave she was told she would need a female chaperone, which would have to fund themselves, to accompany her to the Games – otherwise she couldn’t go.
The campaign The 2012 New Zealand Olympic team is focussing its public campaign on the parochial conviction “Making us Proud”. To highlight this, the nz2012.com website invites ordinary and extraordinary people to tell their stories about how they are inspired by someone or something from their country; “When you were most proud to be a New Zealander”. Some of the postings relate to sport others don’t, but it is the patriotism that Currie believes will get Joe Public stirred to support
The future He has come a long way from the boy who sat in that classroom and listened to the live broadcast of his sporting heroes. In a roundabout way he reached his goal of making it to the Olympics – but now he knows it is time for change. The London Olympics will be his last hoorah as chef de mission after three Olympics, one Paralympics and three Commonwealth Games, Currie is calling time – although he cheekily adds he may do a “David Lange”. “It’s an appropriate time. Most people only do one Olympics and Commonwealth Games. You can go forever but it just seems like the right time. It’s been an extraordinary privilege really, a delight to do it. It’s just been fantastic.” He is unsure yet of what the future holds but is confident that whatever he does, it will matter. ‘I’m keen to stay involved in sport. Certainly carrying on and doing something that makes a difference afterwards. If you can’t make a difference in something there’s no point really.” www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 13
Issue News || Automatic Export Trends Earth2012
perfect storm The
By Corazon Miller
The turbulent waters of the 2008 recession seem to be calming, there is optimism in the air that maybe, just maybe, things are getting back to normal. Yet as the Eurozone crisis continues to breach the otherwise calming surface, experts warn the worst may not be over. Weather Weather warning warning She She describes describes herself herself as as aa roving roving gypsy, gypsy, travelling travelling the the globe globe –– giving giving the the unaware unaware aa heads up about the economic, environmental and energy “perfect storm” coming our way. The Canadian “gypsy” and economic analyst, Nicole Foss, on a recent visit to New Zealand, labelled the financial crisis as a perfect storm, with its complex financial fronts that have converged into today’s present crisis. The European Union (EU) is at risk of being engulfed by the storm, as factors including international trade imbalances, high public and private debt, big real-estate bubbles, slow economic growth, growth, governmental governmental monetary monetary economic policies and and the the early early 2000’s 2000’s easy easy credit credit policies conditions, encouraged high-risk lending. conditions, encouraged high-risk lending. Media across across the the globe globe have have quoted quoted experts experts Media saying the crisis is at a boiling point and saying the crisis is at a boiling point and once it it overflows overflows the the implications implications will will be be felt felt once globally – the governments of Greece, Italy, globally – the governments of Greece, Italy, Ireland, Portugal Portugal and and Spain Spain with with their their huge huge Ireland, debt to GDP ratio and huge budgetary deficits debt to GDP ratio and huge budgetary deficits are struggling to repay debts and may be are struggling to repay debts and may be left in the dust by the richer nations such as left in the dust by the richer nations such as France and Germany. France and Germany.
A sign of things to come
Nicole and her travelling partner Raul “Ilargi” Meijer, first began their campaign to raise the Nicole takes it one-step further saying awareness of the economic, environmental Europe is just the sign of worse things on and energy storm through their website, the horizon. It’s the tip of the iceberg and which began in 2008, called The Automatic the globe is perched precariously on the edge, Earth. Two years later Nicole and Raul decided about to fall into a deep dark depression that to take their work onto the road. will be worse and longer lasting than that of “There is no substitute about being there in the 1930s. person to motivate people to change, face to Though recent reports from International face enables us to find more opportunities,” Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Christine she says. When challenged about the Lagarde reported a positive outlook for the environmental cost of riding on so many economy, Nicole claims such optimism will planes, she laughs saying “you can’t tell me be short-lived. any one of those planes wouldn’t have taken On her recent visit to New Zealand, she stated off without me”. it is a question of when, not if, the Euro In fact the cost of making and distributing a falls. Greece will be the first of the Eurozone DVD would cost just as much – if not more – dominos to fall and default, followed by and would most likely be less effective. Portugal, Ireland, Spain and Italy with the “We are able to tailor our presentations potential for the rest of the Eurozone to follow. to match the local circumstances and help people identify to our message.” She says when the Euro falls, the face of international relations as we see it will change forever. Nicole claims we are heading into an era of de-globalization; as the economy fails The naked emperor things will no longer work on a large level, “I prefer to warn people,” Nicole says. but on a small community level. “Our focus is not academics, rather we are interpreting complexity so anyone can understand it.”
Not crazy talk
Though Nicole a.k.a Stoneleigh resembles somewhat the gypsy part she plays, with her stark blond windswept bob, flowing skirts and warm capes, this down to earth woman’s claims are not just wildly plucked out of the dark recesses of her mind. Rather, they originate from an impressive list of qualifications; a degree in biology, focusing on neuroscience and psychology, a postgraduate diploma in air and water pollution control and a Masters in International Law development – there appears to be a reasonably broad knowledge base behind her speculative suspicions. Other experts have also backed up her not-sowild claims. The BBC’s Russel Hotten reported in 2011 that experts have long predicted the Euro’s demise. He quoted the British Labour Party MP Jack Straw who warned the United Kingdom to prepare for the Euro’s slow death.
She says at present it’s like the story of the emperor with no clothes. Everyone knows it, but no-one is willing to acknowledge it until the little boy points it out. “We are that little boy,” she says. “Not just to tell people there’s a problem, but to get people prepared.”
Economic denial Nicole says the governments have been papering over the cracks in the economic system for sometime now. “They are using public dollars to fill the gap between the buyer and the supplier, increasing the monetary value [for example the Greek government bonds] but in reality it is all fiction.” She highlights how Greece is now worth so much less than all the public dollars that have gone into saving it, “But people aren’t being made aware.” Travelling partner Raul chips in saying there was one point when Greece’s interest rates were up to 400 percent. Nicole says this compounds the problem, as rising interest rates increase the risk of default, the very thing the Eurozone is battling against. This risk of default in turn raises interest rates, which in turn increases the risk of default. “It is all a spiral of fear, which is quickly spiralling contagion throughout all of Europe.”
14 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
The first domino - Greece Greece is the predominant face of the crisis. Many experts are saying despite its two bailouts – a combined €240bn from the EU and IMF – it may still default. The weight of its debt may simply make it impossible for the country to grow economically, causing Greece to default from the Euro, sending the financial markets into turmoil as they try to cope with the new unchartered territory – no-one has left the Euro before. It is certainly a terrifying situation. Nicole points out if Greece does default it will shut itself out from the world with a worthless currency, unable to trade in or out of the country. The exact value of the Drachma will be unknown. “Its currency won’t be able to buy a single unit,” she says “You can’t do business outside of the country if your currency is not worth anything. It will end up in a civil war, there will be no jobs and there will be no money.” And once Greece defaults, the other dominos - Portugal, Ireland, Spain and Italy won’t be far behind. The BBC’s Hutton backs Nicole’s claims saying the financial markets would take a dim view on the default and refuse to lend to Athens for years. It’s a precarious situation, one which Greece and the EU are understandably trying their best to avoid. However, economist Mark Weisbrot says despite everyone’s dire predictions, there could be some good that could come out of a default. He says people should look to Argentina. The nation defaulted from the dollar in the early 2000s and has economically blossomed in the years since – thanks to being free from monetary policies stifling its growth – Greece could yet do the same.
Issue | Automatic Earth The domino effect
On our shores
Nicole says despite Greece taking up most of centre stage, Portugal and Ireland are not far behind – they are kept alive only by the EU and its banks who are desperately trying to save face.
Nicole, who is Canadian-born, says she admires the strength of character New Zealand has a nation and as people. She says we appear to have an understanding that bad things can happen to good people.
Despite the second bailout, market confidence in the struggling Eurozone remains fragile, long term prospects appear weaker, influenced by an ageing population and economic restrictions. A virtual economic standstill is predicted, with weakened banks, high unemployment and low growth – not just for Europe but all across the globe.
In less than two years we were hit by the Pike River Mine disaster and shaken by the Christchurch earthquakes – yet we as a nation show resilience and tackle things as they come.
“The Euro as a common currency is dying, we are likely to see countries defaulting, the collapse of a single currency within the year is a likelihood. When it does fall the impact will be monumental, it is not clear how quickly the dominoes will fall – but one thing is certain shockwaves will be felt throughout the world.”
The shockwaves The Euro is one of the currencies which dominate trading relationships, once that is gone, Nicole says no-one will have any idea of what their currency is worth or how to do business with it. “Once the Euro dies, so too will numerous trade relations, the economy will freeze, trade-relationships break down as the level of trust disappears, trade wars will occur, credit ratings will go down – or even worse won’t exist.”
Our overall picture, though not on the edge of the cliff like Greece, is still not flash. Auckland is the sixth least affordable place in the world for the housing market compared with income. There is a huge housing bubble waiting to burst. People are in debt – thanks to the relatively low interest rates which have trapped people into big mortgages, remortgages and loans. Nicole prophesises when the economic depression really hits the breakdown in trade relationships will hurt New Zealand. “As a nation you rely heavily on trade. New Zealand imports 97 percent of its oil, it is virtually totally dependant on the outside for oil.” In addition, New Zealand has a “huge moat” cutting it off from the rest of the world. “Isolation creates an exaggerated period of boom and bust,” Nicole says. New Zealand may suffer more but recover quicker.
She says there is no room for complacency – the shockwaves will come and when they do they will be huge.
Another big problem is many of our banks are foreign-owned, so when the internationall banking system breaks up, we will be exposed to the risks associated with Europe and Australia, adding risks to our already local risk.
Globalistion is at its peak, few corners of the world are unreachable, but it all comes at a cost as already people are feeling the crunch of the Eurozone crisis.
“New Zealand’s banking system can expect some disruption – so be prepared and do what you can to fix it.”
People have watched in bated breath for Greece to be saved, not for altruistic reasons, but out of fear. John Baylis in his 2011 edition of World Politics: An introduction to Globalisation, summarises it in one succinct sentence; “The pace of economic transformation is so great a new world politics has been created, states are no longer closed, the world is more interdependent with trade and finances ever expanding”.
But on the plus side, New Zealand also has a more robust power system, and covers a land mass that is not overpopulated. It has good soil and good rain, all that we need to do now is learn how to live with the resources that we do have.
If Greece had defaulted, this interdependency would have meant all would have felt the cost of the default – not just Greece – as financial markets and governments tighten their hold on their wallets in response.
It’s never too early to prepare. If you don’t, Nicole says, “it’s like the rug will have been pulled out from under your feet”.
As the financial crisis hits its peak it is the essentials which will become the least affordable, as they are in high demand. Affordability is what is important, Nicole says. “It can cost $10,000 for a cup of coffee, but if everyone is a billionaire it doesn’t matter. It can cost five cents for a cup of coffee but if no-one has five cents it doesn’t work.” She points out even countries that currently appear well-off such as the Netherlands and Germany will not be safe. She illustrates the case of the Netherlands. Its bank holds 150 percent of the GDP, when the bank goes it will be too big for anyone to bail out.
Action plan Nicole says there are three key things that can carry you over the financial hurdle. 1. Get out of debt Burgeoning debt is compounding the financial crisis. How can we do this? Firstly try not to get into huge debt in the first place Nicole says. But if you’re already in debt – get rid of it. One idealistic, perhaps not realistic, idea is to use the wealth and pool it across the generations. “The older generation has a significant amount of savings sitting in the grip of the system, they could come together as a family and decide to wipe off everyone’s debt. 2. Hold liquid cash Because the banks are at risk of a systemic failure, it is important to have cash on hand. Not thousands, otherwise you may become a target for brigands when the world does go under, but hold enough for a few months worth.
“When the bank closes its doors people will go hungry – the money will go. Having a certain percentage of something is better than 100 percent of nothing.”
3. Gain control over you own existence It seems to be a monumental ask, considering many of us are unsure of what we are doing next week. But Nicole says it’s simple. “Grow your own food, have supplies of water, be dependant on yourself as much as possible and look to the local community.” It’s simple (if not entirely practical for all city dwellers) advice – not just for the potential economic wobbles, but for any disaster, be they earthquakes, floods or storms. In the next issue of Auckland Today we take on peak oil.
Never too early
Though no-one can predict exactly when the system will go belly–up it is still important to prepare, because as the near-complete financial crash in 2008 showed, it can happen in one night. “The Euro will die,” Nicole says, “In a year or two at the most. Credit will get tighter, we won’t be able to get the same credit for homes, it will become harder to borrow dollars – it could happen this year or the next - we simply don’t know. What is known, is there is a general risk out there – but once it does happen it will take some time to get out of it.
In addition it has a huge housing bubble; no-one is paying off mortgages, real-estate debt is blowing out of control. Once this pops people will lose the value of their property, and since no-one has money, no-one will be able to buy homes at the value they are worth. www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 15
News | Teamwork
Making your team tick Teamwork is defined as, “co-operative or co-ordinated effort on the part of a group of persons acting together as a team and work done by several associates with each doing a part, but all subordinating personal prominence to the efficiency of the whole”. In simple words, teamwork is a set of activities, performed by team members, to fulfill a common goal that is decided by the organisation. This leads directly to the benefits of building teams and, of course, team building exercises. Team building exercises can be used by any business, large or small, to promote teamwork in the workplace and as most business owners and managers know, great teamwork is one of the key factors associated with a company’s success.
Common teamwork blunders Communication If you have a problem with someone in your group, talk to him,her about it. Letting bad feelings brew will only make you bitter and want to isolate yourself from the group. Not only does it feel good to get it out, it will be better for the team in the long run.
The blame game There are many different reasons why companies use team building exercises, these can include: improving communication, boosting morale, motivation, ice breakers, learning effective strategies, improving productivity, learning about one’s strengths and weaknesses. Teamwork can be rewarding, but at times it can be difficult and downright frustrating. If there are poor communicators on your team, you may often feel confused, let down or misunderstood. Here are six common blunders to avoid in the workplace in order to create a successful team.
Communication is key By Corazon Miller Imagine the freedom – gone are the four walls holding you in, no chains attaching you to your desk, your hours are yours to do as you please – no it’s not unemployment – but the reality for many people working in a “virtual team.”
Humanity in the virtual world
“Caring, talk, personal conversations and story telling are forms of discourse which can establish a mood of support and encourage self-disclosure and the sharing of feelings,” Holton says. “As social beings, face-to-face interaction Globalisation, technological advances and will continue to play a very important role tightening budgets have pushed a boom in in our relationships regardless of how virtual the numbers of virtual teams. our environment may become. A wise Such a team doesn’t conform to the traditional virtual team leader will also seek to build office structure; rather they are spread across opportunities for face-to-face meetings into the globe, communicating virtually by phone, virtual team work whenever possible as a email, Skype, text – saving both money means of enhancing team understanding and and time. accelerating intra-group bonding.” The bonuses aside – there are challenges to creating a sense of team work within a virtual team.
Facing the challenges Strategies need to be put in place to deal such challenges. Virtual teams, like any other, need the same things all teams need – a clear mission, an explicit statement of roles and responsibilities, effective communication pathways and learning opportunities. Judith Holton an executive consultant for the Holland College on Prince Edward Island in Canada says a virtual team needs a solid base of trust and collaboration to work effectively. She says techniques can be borrowed from the face-to-face environment and adapted to virtual work, in order to enhance trust – but there is no quick fix. “By focussing attention and time on virtual team building it is possible a team will experience enhanced collaboration and cohesiveness.” 16 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
By Kayte John
So how should we do it – as a starting point we have provided three quick keys – to unlock the door to virtual success. 3 keys to managing a virtual team Innovative leadership A virtual team needs a manager who provides clearly defined direction. Team leaders need to formalise roles and responsibilities. Creative decision making Having a virtual team means a vastly different culture of decision making. Try out different ways. Communication – use your body A stagnant image peering out of the computer screens lacks authority, body language can help you develop interpersonal skills which cross the virtual medium, and can help you develop influence.
People in your group will lose respect for you if you’re constantly blaming others for work that’s not getting done. You’re not fooling anyone; people know who isn’t pulling their weight in a group. Pointing the finger will only make you look cowardly. Be open and honest - it will earn you a lot more respect.
Support ideas If a teammate suggests something, always consider it – even if it’s not the best idea you’ve ever heard. Considering the group’s input shows you’re interested in other people’s ideas, not just your own.
Boasting It’s one thing to rejoice in your successes with the group, but don’t act like a hero. Doing this will make others regret your personal successes and may create tension within the group. You don’t have to boast to let people know you’ve done a good job - have faith that people will recognise when good work is being done.
Listen Look at the person who’s speaking to you and make eye contact. If you’re unclear about something that’s been said, ask for more information to clear up any confusion before moving on. Effective communication is a vital part of any team, so the value of good listening skills shouldn’t be underestimated.
Get involved Share suggestions, ideas, solutions and proposals with your team members. Take the time to help your fellow teammates, no matter what the request. You can guarantee there will be a time in the future when you’ll need some help or advice. And if you’ve helped them in past, they’ll be more than happy to lend a helping hand.
Leading your team Managers need to inspire their staff to ensure top-performing people remain with them so that their business flourishes as the economy improves. There are many non-financial incentives employers can put in place to inspire people and ensure their company is a great place to work. What is clear, is that motivating staff is more important now that employees are feeling more confident about their career prospects and may be searching for other opportunities. One of the most effective means of motivating your staff is to recognise their achievements. One-on-one coaching is another effective method of firing up your staff and scheduling refresher training sessions with all staff. So here are some great ways to keep staff on point, motivated and enthused. • Be able to easily communicate the organisation’s vision, missions, and values to others • Be adaptable and flexible and not bound by a plan. A leader can easily move from one set of circumstances to the next • Be decisive. A leader must be able to wade through information, understand what’s relevant and make a well considered decision, taking action based on that decision
• Staff morale in many organisations may be in the doldrums in the aftermath of the downturn as employees have struggled with heavier workloads, and possibly longer hours, with no additional pay or other compensation. Managers should take steps to turn any pessimism around before it hurts productivity • Make your employees part of the solution. Employees need to be involved in decision making, because their buy-in is critical for motivation and performance • Offering non-monetary benefits is another great way to inspire staff. Offering new training programmes, career development, cross training, even flexible work schedules are great alternatives when your organisation can’t afford to pay salary increases • Make sure employees can measure their own performance against Key Performance Indicators. This is a key element of employee motivation, because if a worker cannot measure their progress, it’s unlikely their progress will improve • Finding a way to reward your people will inspire staff. It’s especially important that employees feel a sense of accomplishment in their work. Set up proper recognition and rewards, so they can feel a sense of teamwork and can be acknowledged for their efforts during difficult times.
News | Business Tips
What really works Working from home By Vivienne Hussey
Successful companies don’t just grow simply through good luck or fortune. There are many similarities between those who have succeeded in expanding their businesses. The Evergreen Project researched 160 companies in equivalent industries during a 10-year period and found there are eight management practices directly correlated with superior performance.
•
The research not only looked at successful companies and unsuccessful companies, it looked at companies whose performance changed for better or worse and identified the cause and effect of these changes – thus identifying which management practices really work.
• Anticipate rather than react to industry changes
Here’s what really works: The four primary practices: (excellence in all four is required for superior performance) 1. Strategy - make your strategy clear and narrowly focused 2. Execution - flawless execution 3. Culture - build a performance-based culture 4. Structure - make your organization fast & flat. The four secondary practices: (excellence in 2 out of 4 is required) i. Talent: Make talent stick around and develop it • Senior managers must be personally involved in finding and retaining talent • Preference for developing talent from within the company (hired guns are less loyal)
• The board must not rubber stamp CEO decisions - they must play an active strategic role.
iii. Innovation: Make industry-transforming innovations • Introduce disruptive technologies and business models (not just focus on continuous improvement)
• Continually create new products to make your existing products redundant (launch a new model, open another branch etc).
iv. Mergers and partnerships: Make growth happen with mergers and partnerships • Merge for growth and synergy, not for diversification • Buy a business for its customer base, or one that complements your strengths • Partner with companies to create synergies for both parties • Make small regular strategic deals rather than occasional mega-mergers • Have a planned process for spotting and processing deals, not ad-hock spur of the moment acquisitions.
What doesn’t work: The project found no correlation between the following and total shareholder returns: • Investment in information technology • Corporate change programs • Supply chain management programs
• • Provide top education and training for staff • at all levels • Retain talent with work that is meaningful • and challenging for them • Always have replacements for each role groomed from within the organisation.
ii. Leadership: Make your leaders are committed to your business • The leader’s style or personal characteristics do not matter – but the leader must be fully committed to the business
Board of Directors must have a substantial financial stake in the business, thoroughly understand the business, and be passionately committed to its long- term success
Learning organisations Team-based management Total Quality Management (TQM) or outsourcing execution
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Customer Relationship Management (CRM) • Whether business is structured geographically, or by product • Whether business units have profit and loss responsibility or not • The quality of HR staff or fast track development programs
• The CEO accounts for 15% of a company’s performance (good or bad)
• Formal mentoring programs or 360 degree performance appraisals
•
• CEO’s personal characteristics or attracting high quality outside directors.
On average 50% of executive pay was linked to performance in winning companies. Miss your target – miss your bonus
• Leaders need to communicate their vision convincingly so others will adopt it • Leaders need integrity in their words and actions so people trust them • Future focused – leaders need to see opportunities and spot problems early • Leaders and managers need to build strong relationships with their people
Which two out of the four secondary practices is your company truly excellent in? Article kindly supplied by business execution experts RESULTS.com. For more information visit www.results.com
You may think working from home is an easier and more flexible option than the hassle of commuting into work each day, power dressing, sharing your workspace with colleagues you don’t particularly like, and having to navigate your way around the minefield of workplace politics. While technology has made it easier than ever to work from home, you can get just as stressed as you can at work. Trying to achieve the perfect work-life balance can also be especially difficult. Not having a manager or supervisor constantly dictating your working day when you work at home does give you a certain freedom and feeling that you are more in control of how you manage your day, but you have to be disciplined. A lot of your working day can be wasted by allowing the slightest distraction around the home to take you away from those boring, mundane jobs that need completing. Or you can end up having your work take over your home life, going without breaks, ignoring your family, working weekends and burning the midnight oil long after you should be in bed. Not having any working colleagues to interact with during the day can be too isolating for some. Or the frustrations of having to interact with your business associates and working colleagues by phone, email and fax can be too inconvenient and not give instant results. Plus you have no colleagues on hand for help, advice and support, no one to bounce ideas around with, or provide back-up. Guilt can also creep in when you work at home. A series of trivial, but time consuming tasks, such as the laundry or dishes can eat into your working day. You can also feel guilty that you take time out to have morning tea, or lunch, when there is work waiting to be completed. It is very difficult to separate home time from work time - the boundaries can become blurred. Dress down days end up being every day, as you don’t have to worry about following a dress code. Some days you can find that you end up being chained to your desk before you have had time to change out of your pyjamas. You wake up, the phone goes, you get distracted by work and before you know it its midday.
Of course that is the time when you get an unexpected visitor, and you know they are looking at you quizzically, thinking that you have spent the morning lazing around in bed. Also because you are no longer a nine to five employee, with an office, an impressive title and position description, your work can be met with a lack of interest and not taken seriously by friends and family. They think that you just do a little bit of work when you feel like it, and spend your day having endless tea breaks whilst flicking through magazines and catching up on day time television. So they are always surprised when you can’t drop everything at a moment’s notice when you are home all day. It can be frustrating constantly reminding people that you work from home, and you don’t suffer from agoraphobia, especially when your friends and family look at you with pity, and tell you that you need to get out more. Working at home, maybe in your own business, can bring with it administration headaches and if you are not that way inclined, it can be an extra burden to your working day. Having a good accountant or admin support is a necessity if you don’t want to spend hours on your own business paperwork. Luckily there are lots of web based accounting, payroll and admin support systems that are easy to use and can be accessed from your home computer - working remotely has never been easier. One of the plus sides of working at home is you can claim against your taxes for the areas you use in your home, as long as it is used principally for business, such as an office, work or storage area. You can claim a portion of the household expenses, such as the rates, insurance, power, cleaning, mortgage interest and depreciation (if you own the house). Another advantage of working at home is, with no meetings, constantly ringing phones and other office distractions, your productivity can go up. You are more likely to complete work you are given to do and less likely to miss deadlines, all the while having the advantages of working flexible hours to suit you in your own home. Working from home also cuts down fuel costs, less commuting time means you get to miss out on the road rage that can occur along with the traffic congestion everyday at 5pm. Like anything, working from home has its advantages and disadvantages, but with a healthy dose of discipline, it can prove to be a prosperous alternative. www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 17
News | Lifestyles
Santa Monica
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A little slice of Los Angeles life
Santa Monica’s story began when a Franciscan monk, inspired by the region’s natural springs, named the area after Saint Monica. The rest, as they say, is history – and it’s a rich history at that. Santa Monica has 5.6 km of well-maintained golden California beach and enjoys, on average, 340 days of sunshine a year. Both a seaside town and bustling city, Santa Monica has activities for young and old, from beach games and bike paths to art galleries and nightclubs, from shopping and fitness to theatere and concerts.
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www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com www.hotelcasadelmar.com
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Huntaway Reserve - Pinot Gris 2011
Huntaway wines, known for their distinctive characteristics, include both mainstream and specialty varietals from Marlborough, Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay. Since Huntaway Reserve was launched in late 1996, the range has been awarded no less than six gold medals and three trophies, reflecting the outstanding quality of these wines. This wine represents a blend of pinot gris from some of its finest vineyards in Gisborne. In the glass, this wine is straw in colour with green tinges. A lifted bouquet of pear and melon with hints of spice is evident. There is a rich, oily-textured palate, layered with pear and spice flavours and an underlying savoury complexity leads to a lingering off-dry finish.
Skins gym gear
If you want performance when on the move, then Skins is a brand to take notice of. The company produces compression sportswear and has launched a stylish new range of designs to improve performance and aid muscle recovery. The A200 range is aimed at men and women passionate about being active – whether it’s running, cycling, playing team sports, aerobics or hitting the gym. By wrapping the muscles in a second ‘skin’ and applying the correct levels of pressure, Skins A200 accelerate blood flow and increase oxygen delivery to working muscles, improving power, stamina and aiding recovery. In short - the everyday sportsman/woman can enjoy optimum performance and limit muscle pain during and after activity.
There’s the Santa Monica Pier, Muscle Beach and of course Disneyland and Hollywood… the list is almost endless. The Third Street Promenade is world-famous for its alfresco shopping, tasty restaurants and cafés all in the heart of the city. Santa Monica hotels range from luxury to boutique, and beachfront to motels. Stay in the thick of it all and check out the Viceroy Santa Monica hotel or Casa Del Mar hotel.
Top drop
On the go
RRP: A200 Skins leggings - $169 Available from: stockists on the Skins website www.skins.co.nz
Go-go gadget PS Vita
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RRP: $23.99 Available from: wine outlets nationwide
Immerse yourself in a world of uncompromised play with PlayStation’s Vita (PS Vita), the revolution in portable gaming from Sony Computer Entertainment. The Vita delivers a state-of-the-art portable gaming experience and introduces innovative ways to play and interact. Its unique, intuitive and varied control inputs allow for rich and immersive gaming experiences, while full integration with PlayStation Network allows you to stay constantly connected to a social network of gamers. There is a choice of connectivity options, including 3G network support which makes its first appearance in a PlayStation device. The Vita features a touchscreen similar to those found on advanced smartphones, you can access Facebook and Twitter, Skype, and the built-in GPS with Google Maps should also prove popular when out and about. RRP: $549.95 Available from: electronic stores nationwide
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Furnish yourself UFO red tub chair
Cuddle up, stretch out or relax with the whole family on this inviting circular shaped sofa. It’s ideal for a family room, bach or the centre piece to your living room. The UFO is imported by Danske Møbler and will be ideal for the upcoming winter months to snuggle into. Danske Møbler is an award winning furniture store with a wide selection of leading designers and the UFO is just one of a wide range of interesting furniture concepts and designs. RRP: $1,899 Available from: www.danske.co.nz 18 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
Ultimate accessory Kikki.K leather shoulder bag
Arrive in style with a shoulder bag that combines the function of a laptop bag with the form and quality of Swedish design. Handmade from premium Italian leather, woven cotton lining and leather trimming on all internal pockets, it’s the perfect accessory. This spacious little number can hold a 17 inch laptop, has a padded sleeve perfect for your i –Pad and phone, business card slots, pen loops and internal pockets, plus generous external zip pockets for everyday bits and pieces. Available in any colour you like, so long as its black or brown. RRP: $620.00 Available from: Kikki.K stores and www.kikki-k.com
www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 19
Issue | Leaky Building Special
The leaky
epidemic
Property tycoons, designers and gung-ho builders of the 1990s and early 2000s have left a lasting blot on the New Zealand building landscape – the aftermath of which is still being rectified. The haphazard approach to building and design, combined with a less than adequate consent and sign-off process, led to the leaky building epidemic which has caused many homeowners heartbreak and financial collapse.
What’s been done?
In 2002 the Building Industry Authority appointed a weather-tightness Overview Group to investigate the leaky building Home Owners and Buyers Association NZ situation in New Zealand. The group visited a (HOBANZ) chief executive Roger Levie says the combination of a change of legislation and number of affected buildings and met with many representatives from different sectors deregulation, along with the building boom of the building industry. In its final report, meant consumers’ protection was taken away. known as the Hunn Report, it outlined the “New building materials got introduced which main causes of leaky buildings and made hadn’t been tested in New Zealand conditions. many recommendations on how to remedy the situation. Builders started using a lot more plaster and fibre cement board as well as untreated The same year the Weathertight Homes timber. The combination of those things Resolution Services Act was introduced along with a decline in skills and loosening of which was later replaced by the 2006 Act regulations, led to a systematic failure.” in force today. This Act intended to provide It is estimated that up to 110,000 homes may procedures for assessment and resolution of claims relating to leaky buildings, as opposed be affected by weather-tightness issues and to using privately-engaged building surveyors the cost of remediation will come in at the and the Courts. tune of about $30 billion. In April 2009 the National Government What is a leaky building? engaged Price Waterhouse Coopers to A leaky building is where the cladding system produce a report on the size and cost of has falied due to poor design and inadequate New Zealand’s leaky building problem. The report was released in December 2009 with construction, allowing the building to “leak”, investigations finding the likely number of causing extensive damage to the structure homes affected was in a range from 22,000 of the house. The use of untreated kiln-dried to 110,000. timber during construction has only added The economic cost to repair the problem was to the problem as it provides no defence to reported at an estimated repair cost of up to moisture and simply rots when wet. $30 billion. As a response the Building and Unfortunately, building regulations and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson requirements and administration of the announced the Financial Assistance Package New Zealand Building Code, by councils and (FAP) for leaky home owners in May 2010. building certifiers at the time, failed to pick Under the package an owner who meets the up on buildings’ shortcomings. The easing of criteria will get a contribution of either 25 building controls in 1998 that allowed the use percent or 50 percent of the “agreed repair of untreated timber simply made the matter cost” if they can prove their ability to fund worse, resulting in even quicker deterioration. the balance. 20 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
Tell-tale signs of a leaky building Exterior Cracks in plaster Blistering or flaking paint work Stains on cladding Faulty or leaking windows and doors Inadequate ground clearances Faulty decks and/or roof.
Interior Skirting and architraves swelling and cracking Leaking windows and doors Mould build up on the window liners Mould on the inside of drapes Carpet and floor coverings showing signs of water damage Flooring that has swelled Pull up the carpet near the joinery and look for rust marks on the carpet fixings Swelling, cracking and popping of wall linings (All are indicators that moisture maybe getting into your home.)
www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 21
Issue | Leaky Building Special The reality of a leaky home HOBANZ chief executive Roger Levie went through the process himself so knows the absolute emotion that comes with the realisation of having a leaky home. “The first thing people feel is disbelief. Understandably a lot of people bury their head in the sand and don’t want to accept they have a major problem. What often happens is that the situation just spirals – they find a small problem and when they start investigating it spirals into a much larger problem.” Often homeowners find themselves not only in unhealthy and unsafe homes but also looking down the barrel of financial loss. The value of their property drops and they may not have the money to remediate it. “In New Zealand we are brought up that our home is our retirement savings. For a lot of people all their money is sunk into their home,” Roger says. “The prospect that the investment they have made is significantly devalued can create stress and anxiety.” If the home is less than 10 years old there is financial support available if the homeowner is eligible for the Financial Assistance Package. But the reality is many people are finding out about the problems past the 10-year threshold and therefore are ineligible for assistance and can no longer take legal action to recover their losses. For those who own a unit in an apartment in a block the situation can be even worse. “If you’re in a body corporate everybody needs to agree on the way forward and you’re totally reliant on your neighbours being able to come up with their share of the repair costs before the building can be fixed.”
www.formereclad.co.nz “ I would have no hesitation in recommending the Forme boys to anyone with the misfortune of a leaky home.” - KEVIN HAWKES
- Reclad Specialists Over the past five years Forme has repaired and reclad over 120 homes, apartment complexes, and townhouses. Unit 11, 386 Richmond Road Grey Lynn, PO Box 47, 122 Ponsonby Ph: 09 360 1002 | Fax: 09 357 0058
22 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
The right resolution An Auckland couple approached HOBANZ with their leaky building dilemma. At the time they were planning to have their home repaired first before trying to recover the cost of doing so from the council and the original builder of their home. The cost of repair work would have meant the couple would have to borrow $300,000, a considerable sum given their personal situation with a young child.
Another home is torn down as a result of leaky building damage.
“It would have been a big impact on them especially if they did not get back what they had hoped for afterwards,” Roger says. “It would have put them in a much weaker position and they would have had huge amounts of money going out in interest payments every month.” When HOBANZ became involved the couple were able to discuss the options available and in partnership, devise a strategy to proceed with litigation first. “At first the bank was not going to lend the couple the money for litigation although it would for repair work. We met with the owners and their bank and after explaining the reasons why claiming first was the best strategy for the family, the bank agreed to lend the money.”
A home before being reclad after being diagnosed as a leaky building.
The claim was settled privately out of court, so the final amount cannot be disclosed, however the couple were then able to carry out remediation work accordingly knowing how much they knew they had available and without the burden of a huge loan they would have otherwise had to service. “Every situation is different but in this case, the strategy they followed diminished their stress and their financial exposure and allowed them to get out of the problem without too much financial and emotional impact.”
The same home after recladding.
“Even after they’ve been repaired, many formerly leaky homes still struggle to sell.”
Make sure you’re covered After undergoing significant remedial work on your leaky home, the last thing you want to be faced with is further heartache and cost because the build was not up to scratch or the underlying problems were not properly fixed. In 2011 Joan Henderson decided to sell her 15-year-old North Shore house. However after five months on the market, she was getting little interest and only low offers. Many prospective buyers simply drove away when they saw that it was a plaster-clad house with a flat roof – two typical hallmarks of a leaky building. A weather-tightness expert was engaged to assess her home, and they found that remediation work was required. Joan appointed a WaterTight Approved Builder to undertake the works and was given a WaterTight Warranty. With the work completed and a warranty in place she was able to sell the property within eight weeks and for over $100,000 dollars more than the offers they were getting before the work. A WaterTight Warranty covers repair work to leaky homes – protecting homeowners and providing reassurance if these fail and the original builder is unwilling or unable to fix them. The warranty, which is the first of its kind in New Zealand, is underwritten by CBL Insurance
Limited and administered by Builtin New Zealand Ltd, both of whom have extensive experience in the provision of guarantees to homeowners in this country.
•
building envelope – guaranteed for five years and up to $500,000 Non-structural defects – guaranteed for two years Loss of deposit and noncompletion of the repairs Helps sell homes faster and for more – the warranty can be transferred to new owners Builders who offer the warranty have met stringent requirements Underwritten by CBL Insurance Ltd – a Standard and Poor’s rated company with nearly 40 years experience worldwide.
They have jointly provided the HomeFirst Builders’ Guarantee, for both new houses and alterations, for the past 10 years. Not only does the WaterTight Warranty give peace of mind to the homeowner, it can also be a valuable selling tool, giving reassurance to the purchaser that any repair work was carried out by an accredited professional builder and is covered within the warranty’s timeframes.
•
Only your builder can apply for a warranty on your behalf. If they already have the WaterTight Seal of Approval they can apply straight away, otherwise they will need to apply to qualify and will only be granted approval if they meet Builtin’s strict criteria.
What makes the WaterTight Warranty unique?
Key features of the WaterTight Warranty include:
•
• •
• It’s the first of its kind in New Zealand • It only uses highly skilled builders who must be approved by Builtin and who can then carry the WaterTight Seal of Approval. Homeowners can visit www. watertightwarranty.co.nz to find
a WaterTight approved builder in their area.
How can a WaterTight Warranty help me resell my home? Right now, selling a leaky home is difficult and means competing with newly built homes that have guarantees in place, and with other homes where no repairs were necessary. Having a WaterTight Warranty will go a long way in providing confidence to potential purchasers of your home. It reassures them that the repair work was carried out by an accredited professional builder and they know that if anything were to go wrong in the future the warranty is there to help.
• Structural defects – guaranteed for 10 years • Weather-tightness of the
Level 2, Farming House, 104 Spring Street, Tauranga 3140 T (07) 579 6259 | E guarantee@builtin.co.nz | www.watertightwarranty.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 23
Issue | Leaky Building Special Was your home built between 1999 and 2005?
homeowners find themselves needing to complete remediation work because of design and building flaws. With the arrival of new products and the push to build cheaper, comes the realisation that there is always a risk when building.
Arrow Remediate managing director Dennis Dowling believes New Zealanders, both consumers and those in the building industry, must have a complete change of mind to ensure another situation like this does not occur again. Dennis is hoping to bring together industry stakeholders to create industry best practices. “This would put the focus on the right skill set.”
“Even if your home isn’t leaking if it was built during the high risk period that materials are now known to fail regularly, it will be hard to sell the property for its full value.”
“Homes are still being built with major defects,” Roger says. “People need to be aware that they aren’t protected just because they’re buying a reasonably newer property. They still need to do their own due diligence to make sure the building is sound and there are people around to repair it if things go wrong. Sadly these days we can’t just rely on the system to protect us.”
For those homeowners, steps can be taken to restore its worth. Recladding the home and installing double-glazing may be pricey but will be investments worth making.
The whole industry and consumers need to shift their thinking to quality rather than price. “Consumers need to take some interest in what’s being specified for their home.”
“For these people they are lucky in a way because they don’t have to do the work straight away, they can plan and save up over a period of time and reclad the home at a later date – recognising that if they put a plan in place now they can restore the value,” Roger says.
Roger says proposed Building Act changes will go some way to protect the consumer however it could be years before they are introduced. “The proposed changes deal with disclosure - what a builder needs to tell a prospective client about themselves and their history - and contracts, what needs to be covered in a contract to cover the construction of a home. This is all going to take some time to put in place and I’m concerned that it could easily become watered down by the influence of the industry,” he says.
It is not only those who may have to carry out remediation work on their home that will find themselves getting less than they hoped for in the market place. Roger says any homeowner who owns a building constructed between 1999 and 2005 may also find their property is devalued simply because of when it was built.
The worst may be over, but… Although the leaky building situation will hopefully never reach the scale seen in the past 10 years, there are still occasions where
Those who introduce new products on to the market place also need to ensure the right education was being communicated through to the people installing them. Banks also had a part to play in ensuring standards rise, he said. With the banks having a financial interest in buildings, it was also necessary for them to demand higher standards. “People (builders and consumers) are always concerned about minimum standard, lowest cost. Until that mentality shifts, there’s going to be inherent problems within the industry.”
Home Owners and Builders Association NZ (HOBANZ) HOBANZ is an independent organisation set up to represent homeowners and support them through building projects, providing assistance when things go wrong. It provides expertise from professionals and from the
knowledge that comes as a result of helping 1000s of homeowners with building projects and dealing with their leaky and defective homes. It works alongside builders, architects, banks, lawyers, insurance companies and other service providers to give assistance to homeowners who find themselves in what can sometimes seem impossible situations. Through HOBANZ, homeowners can receive valuable advice to help them work through options available whether it be funding remediation work or selling of a property. HOBANZ has been set up not only to assist those who find themselves with a leaky home but also to assist those building new homes or renovating. The organisation’s Project Assist service gives practical advice and knowledge gained from extensive experience. By using the service, homeowners can ensure builders and service providers are trustworthy, and contracts are in the homeowner’s best interests. If something does go wrong, it can be dealt with straight away without too many delays or disruptions. The hope is that if careful planning is put in at the start of the process it will prevent a situation similar to the leaky building epidemic from happening again.
Two simple steps to get help STEP 1 – Visit www.hobanz.org.nz and read the HOBANZ general guidelines under Leaky Home Claim Categories. STEP 2 - Contact HOBANZ 09 360 8083 or email consult@HOBANZ.org.nz. They can offer you some initial direction, alert you to anything you need to do right now and work out how to best keep your claim moving forward.
Internal rot of a leaky home
Another home reclad after being diagnosed as a leaky building
A professional building and property consultancy offering a wide range of specialist services for both residential and commercial property owners and occupiers.
Weathertightness Investigations • Expert Witness • Remedial Re-cladding Design and Project Management (Including FAP) • Long-term Maintenance Planning Maynard Marks Limited, PO Box 1299, Shortland Street, Auckland, 1140 | Ph: 09 912 2550 | Fax: 09 912 2551
We are licenced building practitioners specializing in high end residential construction and leaky building remedial work.
Ph: (09) 444 8048 | Fax: (09) 444 8049 Ash Hare - Mobile: 021 979 367 E: ash@shorebuild.co.nz
24 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
www.maynardmarks.co.nz
Expert assistance you can rely on! In the whole vexed area of leaky homes, what you don’t know certainly CAN hurt you! More and more unsuspecting homeowners are realising the devastating truth that their home is part of the leaky home crisis in New Zealand, especially if the home was built before 2003. Often a severely leaky home has no obvious signs of a problem, especially to an untrained eye. Sometimes the signs can be as small as a slightly damp corner in one area of the house or a musty smell, particularly after heavy rain. Sometimes there are simply no warning signs at all.
•
The Imaging Specialists are part of Reliant Group and provide a thorough inspection of the whole home from top to bottom assessing the structural integrity of the building and include the use of a specialised Infrared camera which can see areas of excess moisture, moisture ingress or dampness within the walls, which allows you to “see” what the naked eye simply can not see. This clearly shows if there are any issues with your cladding system.
Moisture tracks and spreads over time and as it does the damage increases. The moisture starts soaking into the structural timber framing of the house, and eventually that timber starts to rot; even treated timber will rot when regularly exposed to moisture. The sooner a home is repaired, the less it will cost, especially in timber replacement costs. Reliant have been helping leaky home owners in Auckland for many years. Not only by physically repairing and recladding homes but by guiding clients through the whole process from providing invaluable cost free advice on all the options available, arranging architects, engineers, consultants right through to guiding them through each step of a claim process. So here are three points to remember, which could save you considerable heartache: •
Firstly, if you own a leaky home, there is financial assistance available if your house is 10 years old or younger. Owners of leaky homes can be compensated by the Government and councils after Parliament passed a Financial Assistance Package Bill in July last year. This package offers an additional option to the existing Weathertight Homes Resolution Service. Under the new $1 billion package, qualifying homeowners will receive a 25 percent contribution from the Government and may receive up to 25 percent from their local council. Contributions will be based on actual repair costs.
Secondly, if you are buying a new home, please don’t waste your money on any old inspection; get your home checked by an expert so you really know what’s going on inside and out.
This technology therefore helps assess the weather tightness of the home and also detects any plumbing leaks within the home. After an inspection a full written report is completed which includes digital and infrared photographs with written explanations, moisture readings and detailed descriptions of any findings or areas of concern found during the inspections so you know exactly what is going on with your home – inside and out. •
So, thirdly, get some expert help on your side. Reliant Group has over 23 years experience in the construction industry and have been specialising in the repair and recladding of leaky homes for well over eight years. Reliant really are the experts in this truly specialised field and the team at Reliant will provide you with completely cost and obligation free advice; explain all the options available to you and guide you through each step. Craig Shorrock, director of Reliant, was selected from more than 9,000 applicants to be awarded New Zealand’s very first Building Practitioners Licence, so you know you’re dealing with an expert.
Concerned about your leaky home? Call Craig or Clare! Phone: 09 537 1018 Freephone: 0800 349 532 To book an inspection with the Imaging Specialists, Call Michael Phone: 09 537 1018 Cellphone: 0212 83 83 63 For more information go to
www.reliantgroup.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 25
Issue | Leaky Building Special
Working together to solve the problem What has become apparent through the whole process is that in order for leaky buildings to be remediated, trusted and experienced service providers must be used. Often this means service providers work in partnership to provide customers with the best solution within budget constraints. For a recent recladding project in Orakei, Allied Exteriors Ltd found itself with the challenge of having to finish the project quickly within a tight budget. Financial constraints did not allow for full weather protection of the dwelling using normal shrink wrapping methods. Allied Exteriors were aware that U-Shrink had brought innovative solutions to other weather protection projects and contacted them to help solve the dilemma. In short, U-Shrink was able to craft a perfect solution for Allied Exteriors and the homeowner. U-Shrink owner Matt Trayes, who is a qualified New Zealand builder and ex super yacht captain, has worked with shrink wrapping products for many years. For the Orakei project, he looked closely at what Allied Exteriors were doing from a building and construction perspective and noted there were minimal changes to the roof. From that he was able to create a cost-effective weather protection structure. Instead of having a massive scaffold structure built over the whole dwelling, U-Shrink proposed a level of weather protection that saw its plastic film product shrink-wrapped directly onto the existing roof –
a methodology that U-Shrink has pioneered in the Christchurch rebuild. This innovation required scaffolding need only be built up to spouting height on the house allowing for considerable cost savings associated with scaffold construction and longterm hire. This method of weather protection is also far quicker to erect and to disassemble at the end. Head of the Allied Exteriors project Steve Jameson was delighted with U-Shrink’s response to its problem in terms of innovation, service delivery and cost benefits. Steve plans to use U-Shrink for another pending recladding project saying; “we never had a single down day on the Orakei job when working under U-Shrink’s weather protection”. The benefits realised on the Orakei project can be especially applied to leaky building remediation work. Homeowners undergoing significant leaky home repairs can ask their builders about involving U-Shrink at the beginning of the project, to ensure it can develop design solutions that are operationally effective for the builders and cost effective for the home owners.
U-Shrink PO Box 303 175 North Harbour Auckland T 0508 333 777 www.ushrink.co.nz Allied Exteriors 19A Triton Drive Albany Auckland T 09 479 8901 www.alliedexteriors.co.nz — Advertising Feature
Allied Exteriors and U-Shrink had a very complimentary partnership on the Orakei project. Trayes says; “The powerful combination of our building knowledge working in partnership with the home owner’s builder has resulted in a weather protection system that the parties did not think possible at the start”. Allied Exteriors are specialists in recladding, exterior plastering and painting.
HOBANZ in association with Leap were able to get Colleen Dick back into her new house in Hobsonville after her house was condemned as a result of leaky building syndrome.
Photo in Page 7 pics file: Caption: The weather doesn’t affect these builders working under U-Shrink weather protection.
Leaky Home Repair Specialists Professional Advice – Professional Service
Recladding Leaky Homes | Exterior Plaster Systems | Exterior & Interior Painting | Building Maintenance Programmes
“Thank you for the wonderful job you have done on our house. It looks great. We found your team to be very friendly and helpful and we are very pleased with the result. Thanks again.” - Rochelle Carson Auckland Wide, 19A Triton Drive, Albany Phone: 09 479 8901 or go to www.alliedexteriors.co.nz 26 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
Auckland home owners and builders wanting to weather-proof their leaky houses need look no further than U-SHRINK wrapping products and services. U-SHRINK offers an exciting product that literally shrink wraps homes, buildings and building products to protect them from the weather and environment. Strong shrink wrap product As well as shrink wrapping homes, U-SHRINK is the national supplier of shrink wrap weather containment products and accessories to the shrink wrap industry, building trade and DIY sector. The wrap forms a tough, skin-tight, seamless cover and can cover any building or structure, regardless of shape. It is ideal for construction, re-cladding, marine, storage and shipping. U-SHRINK owner Matt Trayes says the wrap is perfect for repairing leaky homes. The water-tight plastic membrane can be stretched over a roof or around scaffolding. A heat shrink gun is then used to heat shrink the film, causing it to shrink by up to 30 percent and mould itself tightly around the structure. U-SHRINK was formed in response to a need from the construction industry to remain productive in all weather conditions and to enable leaky homes to be rapidly repaired without compromise to quality. This now means the home owner can return to their home quicker than they ever thought possible. In some instances, home owners can even live in their home during the remedial phase. “It’s not like a tarpaulin, which flaps around. It’s light and transparent so it still lets natural light in,” Trayes says. Trayes is a qualified builder who has worked with shrink wrap materials for many years. He knows the importance of being able to build despite the weather and ensuring what may be already damaged is not damaged further by the natural elements.
Having a qualified builder liaising with your builder is a very powerful and effective combination when planning the most practical and cost effective weather containment project for any leaky home situation. The shrink wrapping process can vary significantly from job to job with lack of knowledge being a trap for many homeowners. Homeowners do need to be aware of the pitfalls of some shrink wrapping suppliers – who use materials with significant variances in quality and thickness of shrink wrapping film. Some are using inferior grade film which does not bond correctly at the seams and some film being used is too thin for Auckland’s inclement weather conditions. As a result, some leaky home projects have failed in their weather protection, resulting in significant water damage and complexity around insurance. Matt strongly advises homeowners and builders that the product being used should be of 230 micron thickness, which is the only product suitable for Auckland weather conditions.
Some facts about shrink wrapping:
• Shrink wrapping is an extension of the building process. There are health and safety and fire risk issues as well as potential for severe damage to the dwelling if the project is not contained properly. Several shrink wrap projects have blown over with significant damage in inclement weather. Having a New Zealand qualified builder project
managing the weather containment of your property in conjunction with your builder will mitigate the risk result and provide the most cost effective solution for your house. • Only partial weather containment of a house is necessary in most circumstances rather than the complete enveloping of a house. • Some weather containment projects have been inappropriately engineered and the resulting costs have been quite significant. For example, you will only need total weather containment of the whole house if the roof is being removed. If not, don’t do it.
• Shrink wrap film comes in many grades of quality and thickness. Home owners must ensure the right film has been recommended for Auckland conditions. Our high winds, heavy rain and intense UV environment requires the right choice of product. Trayes is regarded as an industry expert and is happy to advise homeowners on what works and what doesn’t. U-SHRINK staff can talk to your builder and answer any queries associated with the most effective way to weather-contain a leaky home. By engaging U-SHRINK during the preliminary stages you can ensure the design will be done right from the start.
PO Box 303 175, North Harbour, Auckland 0751 | T (0508) 333 777 | www.ushrink.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 27
28 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
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www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 29
Business Development | ES Plastics
Your plastics team New Zealand has had a long history of ingenuity, but behind these innovative inventers there needs to be companies with the abilities and knowledge to help turn an idea into reality. That’s exactly where Hamilton-based ES Plastics steps in.
“Our focus is on product development,” explains operations manager Heather Allen. “If anyone has an idea, if you’re a bright inventor thinking ‘how can I get this made in New Zealand?’ then we’re here to help. “But equally we’re also there for companies who want something different. It might be someone who already makes something like a brass knob for a BBQ, or a wooden product and they want to try it in plastic.”
Business flexibility Being situated in New Zealand means ES Plastics can be more flexible than its competitors, who are largely based offshore. “We can do what people need and there’s no waiting for months on end. We can also do a trial, or a small run. We can customise. “We give people a range of options. We will work with small runs and if a small business wants their own colour shape etc, a lot of bigger companies won’t deal with them, but we will.” To emphasise this fact, the business has rebranded and now calls itself ‘your plastics team’. Because, as Heather says, “We know everything about plastics and our clients know everything about their business, so we work together”.
Durable and delightful Plastic has a reputation for being cheap and flimsy, but ES Plastics’ range shows that doesn’t have to be true. “Nowadays you can buy plastic that can last for 10 years or is as strong as steel and glass,” Heather points out. “Plastic is a good alternative to other
Allied Color & Additives NZ Ltd (ACANZ) is proud to support ES Plastics and their ‘buy Kiwi-made’ philosophy! ACANZ is an independent local manufacturer and supplier of quality coloured masterbatch and additives to the plastics industry. ACANZ is also the NZ distributor of Hubron Black masterbatch.
p. (09) 265 1050 f. (09) 265 1052 salesnz@alliedcolor.com
www.alliedcolor.com 30 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
materials, we can make our clients’ production quicker and cheaper. If you make a product that needs three pieces of wood nailed together we can probably make it with one single piece of plastic - often cheaper and just as strong.” ES Plastics’ in-house design service utilises state-of-the-art CAD CAM software which enables it to effectively stress analyse new products, to ensure their structural integrity. But more than just being safe and strong, the best plastic products must also look good. ES Plastics is passionate about design, something that is reflected in its successes. “We win lots of awards for design at the National Plastics Design Award ceremonies held every two years,” Heather says. “Our design team is great, it can come up with a creative approach to all sorts of things because more than awards we think ‘how can we make other people’s manufacturing better’?”
Mighty machinery ES Plastics invests in its machinery so it can consistently deliver the best. Its new blowmoulding machinery is an example of this. When installing this machinery the team at ES Plastics utilised its advanced industrial design and engineering skills to make it more intelligent and efficient to run. Included in the up-grade was a new computerised control system which replaced the original electronic relay control, and the refurbishment of all the machine’s hydraulics and moving components. Managing director Jeff Sharp says the new machinery up-grades required a fair amount
COPACK
of resource from the company, but they had the in-house expertise to do it. “ES Plastics’ largest blow moulding machine is capable of part weights of up to 26kg and is easily the biggest of this type of machine in Australasia.” According to Jeff, the addition of the new machine within the ES Plastics plant has made the already comprehensive service offered by ES Plastics even more extensive. “The significance of the new moulding machinery is that Waikato businesses can now achieve both the design and development of large plastic products locally, without having to outwork the manufacturing elsewhere. Having a local manufacturer able to produce large components close at hand has the potential to reduce their freight costs quite considerably.”
Innovative partnerships The future is bright for ES Plastics, which aspires to keep doing what it has been doing – helping Kiwi inventors turn their ideas into well-designed and well-crafted products. “Our current goal is to establish ourselves in blow moulding, and generally in the future be designing and making more great products,” Heather says. “For customers who need their own shaped container, we can make the mould and product, which works very nicely to make a ‘family’ of products in a range of sizes. Our designers can make the shape suit your label or your current look, and the colour choice is as wide as your imagination.”
ES Plastics offers a range of jerry cans and drums, from 4L up to 200L. There are a number of different shapes, and colours, so they can offer customers what they need. The 20L jerrycan and 200L drum also come in a dangerous goods (DG) rated option, with vented or non-vented bungs and caps, and can take a tap fitting. In addition light weight versions are available, along with an ‘Enviro’ range made from recycled plastic. These containers are in stock at it’s Hamilton depot, and also at ES Plastic’s partner company Copack, in Pukekohe, so supply can be arranged to suit. Heather says, Ash Glenn Copack International Ltd is the company’s manufacturing agent and assists with packaging solutions to suit their product range. “Ash has a depth of industry experience, so can advise customers on complete package requirements for the safe use of our containers for their products or chemicals.”
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Case Study: Pallenz Plastics Innovation is where ES Plastics excel, so when Pallenz Plastics wanted a faster method of plastic pallet manufacture, they consulted with ES Plastics to build a home grown range of blow moulded plastic pallets. This was a big ask for Jeff Sharp and his ES Plastics team. With his input, the range of pallets has grown during the years and now includes a 1165 x 1165 standard pallet and 200 litre drum pallet, as well as the original range of 1200 x 1000 pallets and collapsible bins. The 1165 X 1165 pallets have proven very popular since their inclusion in the range due to them being available in different weight ranges depending on the customer’s weight carrying requirements, as well as their base footprint, which allows for more efficient use of export containers. With the recent earthquakes in Christchurch, ES Plastics and Pallenz realised it was important to design some extra security into their pallets which sit on racking systems, so they integrated a Positive Positioning System (PPS) into both the 1165 x 1165 and the racking 1200 x 1000 pallet. The PPS aligns and supports the pallet securing it and more importantly,
ES Plastics 7 McKee Drive Pukete Hamilton 3200 T (07) 846 0617 www.esplastics.co.nz
it’s loaded product to the rack in the event of an accident. Pallenz Plastics range of pallets are blow moulded, so with a smooth finish, rounded edges and no cavities, the pallets are easily cleaned. With our thoughts turning to the environment there is often the concern about plastic waste. However, Heather points out that “Plastic blow moulded pallets have a long life, but when their useful life is complete, they are fully recyclable in many cases and can be recycled into other products.” The argument to use plastic pallets is strong. Pallenz Plastic spokesman Graeme Allen points out that a plastic blow moulded pallet is more efficient. “They reduce energy requirements in cool stores because they do not absorb water, they weigh less than wooden pallets and the reduction in maintenance costs over wooden provides them with a life time financial benefit over wooden pallets.
Case Study: Form Holdings Form Holdings takes safety seriously, so when the company embarked on designing and building a safety fence, they knew it must stand up to the strict requirements laid out by the NZTA . Knowing the standards is one thing but designing and building it is another, so Form Holdings sought out the experience and design knowledge of Jeff at ES Plastics. The result of this collaboration was the plastic safety fence now known as ‘dFence’. A safety compliant fence that looks and acts the part – fluorescent orange, it looks and acts like a gate, with no way for a person to climb over. Most safety fences are imported, but dFence is New Zealand made. It was designed and manufactured to comply not only with the NZTA standard, but also for the NZ climate – with a UV stabiliser.
Being blow moulded, dFence is also durable and strong. It will not break if hit or run over. It can be picked up and continue to do its job. Form Holdings managing director Chris Lucas says ES Plastics worked collaboratively as part of their team to come up with dFence and he is extremely happy with the way the project moved forward and with the final result. He is currently working with Jeff and ES Plastics on a range of additions to compliment dFence. DFence is currently being used with confidence by hire companies such as RSEA, Scott Thrust and CSP Pacific. With the broadband layout on our footpaths now in full swing we will all see more and more work happening under our footpaths and dFence will be there.
Graeme Allen from Form Holdings says this dFence wins over many imported brands that are not designed to cope with NZ’s harsh sun.
Pallenz Plastics range of collapsible bins and pallets are now used with confidence by the NZ Army and the United Nations as well as a large range of well known New Zealand companies.
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Your Plastics Team www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 31
Initiatives | Rubbish Direct
A new approach
waste disposal to
Rubbish Direct Limited is revolutionising the way Aucklanders deal with their rubbish.
The Glendene-based company is a market leader in the removal of rubbish and recycling materials from offices, hospitality businesses and apartment blocks. Owned by Rodger Howie and Mark Smith, Rubbish Direct offers a full waste removal and recycling service that involves a unique range of innovative products at competitive prices. The company provides recycling bins, skip bins, document destruction and rubbish bins, as well as a range of larger recycling and rubbish bins for use in the hospitality industry, residential complexes and large offices. Howie says his company’s services are perfect for anyone experiencing frustrations with their current waste disposal provider. Rubbish Direct will design a rubbish and recycling collection programme to suit the needs of any sized business, whether it be a once-a-week collection or 365 days of the year. Howie says Auckland’s hospitality market makes up a large percentage of Rubbish Direct’s work. “We cover restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels and special events, with an emphasis on recycling,” he says. The company also services the commercial and industrial market, including businesses of all sizes.
Rubbish Direct began servicing inner-city Auckland apartments about six years ago and today carries out a rubbish/recycling service to more than 18,000 apartments, or about 70 percent of the market in the Auckland CBD. “We do the inner-city high-density residential apartment buildings, but we’re also now doing multi-tenanted buildings around greater Auckland.”
Service is the key “Our point of difference has always been around excellence in service delivery and putting the customers’ requirements first,” Howie says. “The industry, historically, has been dominated by large companies where the customers have had to meet the requirements of the collection company, rather than the other way around. We’ve tried to go into the market place to ascertain what the customer would like and then put a service programme around that. “We had continual feedback from customers asking us to get into recycling because they were so frustrated by having poor recycling services. When we first started recycling 10 years ago there was only one company in Auckland offering recycling.”
Professional certification Rubbish Direct’s staff and customers benefit from the company’s high standards of professionalism.
the categories of ‘Employer of Choice’ and ‘Service Provider of Choice’.
Client Testimonials
“Rubbish Direct are setting the benchmark for their industry, they are a proficient and professional company to deal with having a high emphasis on sustainability and customer Rubbish Direct Limited is registered for the environmental aspects and impacts associated requirements!” with waste management services, including David Baker, facilities manager, CB waste collection, waste disposal and Richard Ellis Ltd recycling services. It was awarded the ISO 14001 in December last year and is believed to be only one of two businesses in the waste collection industry to have achieved this certification.
The ACC Workplace Safety Management practices certification was awarded to Rubbish Direct Limited in July last year. Rubbish Direct general manager Barry Samu says the ACC certification is in keeping with the company’s commitment to workplace safety by providing a safe and healthy environment for all employees, visitors, contractors and others in our workplace. “Our focus is on sustainable, continuous improvement in health and safety performance through making safety a part of everything we do,” he says.
“Since switching to Rubbish Direct from our previous waste collection company, we have had nothing short of excellent service, more regular collection and our waste collection area has never been cleaner. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a waste collection company.” Graham Hill, manager, Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland City
Last year Rubbish Direct was also a finalist in the West Auckland Business Awards in
Reliable Removal of Rubbish & Recyclables Food Waste | Glass | Paper | Cardboard | Plastic PO Box 69-145, Glendene, Auckland 0645 Phone 0800 - 36 77 35 | Fax 09 - 818 0979 | E: info@rubbishdirect.co.nz
32 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
www.rubbishdirect.co.nz
Initiatives | Rubbish Direct
Rubbish Direct operates its own hand-sorting recycling plant and has a strong environmental philosophy and focus. “Ten years ago we decided we wanted to become a recycling business as well,” Howie says. “We’ve now got our own in-house recycling processing plant and we employ people fulltime to sort the recycling.” All recycling is brought back to Rubbish Direct’s large plant in Glendene, where it is hand sorted.
The future is in recycling The past 10 years have seen a huge shift towards recycling across both the commercial and residential markets. “We believe in the future, the direction will be for waste collection companies to be recycling,” says Howie. “We have a strong belief in wanting to do things environmentally correctly. Down the track our goal is not to put rubbish in landfills - our goal is to find ways for the clients to recover as much of what they’re throwing away as they can and recycle it.” The team at Rubbish Direct works hard to determine what each customer is doing and what they want to achieve. “We’re not into doing everything for the cheapest price. Service comes with a price.” New recycling innovations for Rubbish Direct include disposable coffee cups and cooking oil, which is collected in a new 90-litre oil bin imported from Germany.
Innovative food recycling Auckland hospitality businesses can now recycle all types of food waste, including raw meats, shells and bones.
This unique food recycling service being offered by Rubbish Direct was developed in conjunction with Bio Cosmo Technologies.
“
“Our meat recycling service is quite unique in the marketplace at the moment. We can process meat, seafood, dairy products and the rest of any business’s food waste,” Howie says. “Previously food waste recycling was all about organic waste like vegetable matter and you can’t put meat and seafood in that. But we can recycle those products, which is quite revolutionary.” Bio Cosmo Technologies has developed a revolutionary technique where food waste is decomposed by specific strains of bacteria (isolated from the soil) within closely controlled conditions inside special vessels. The process is very rapid, taking only a few days from start to finish. The finished product is dry and stable, with high levels of nutrients and is in an ideal state to be returned to the soil as a fertiliser. This high grade fertiliser is available through Rubbish Direct and can be provided back to clients at a subsidised rate.
We have a strong belief in wanting to do things environmentally correctly.
The recycling process
1 One bin for mixed recycling makes it easier to use.
2 Collection of rubbish and recycling from within the rubbish area improves the appearance of your building.
3 Quiet removal of recycling bins that are exchanged with cleaned and deodorised bins. Not compacting the recycling minimises glass breakage, which maximises recovery rates
”
and achieves the highest grade of recyclable product.
4 Rubbish Direct cleans and deodorises every bin at its recycling processing plant.
5 Sorting the recycling by hand, a wide range of items are able to be processed, including food waste, glass, paper, cardboard, plastic and plastic wrapping/film.
6 The sorted recycling is then supplied to
organisations in New Zealand and overseas that reprocess it into a finished product.
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www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 33
Initiatives | Rubbish Direct Glass Packaging Forum The Glass Packaging Forum is proud to support its member Rubbish Direct. The Forum is an industry product stewardship organisation whose principal objective is to ensure the diversion of glass packaging from landfill and its recycling into new containers and where this is not possible other high value or appropriate alternative uses.
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Rubbish Direct does not lose customers end of story. Director Rodger Howie says it’s the strong relationships developed with its customers that have been the key to his company’s growth and success.
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“The waste industry has a strategy of signing customers up in long-term contracts for three years or more. The prices are then cranked up continually and the contracts are very difficult to exit. They’re not designed for the customer; they’re designed for the collection company,” he says. “We’re not interested in locking our customers into contractual arrangements they don’t want to be in. We don’t want customers who feel they will be threatened with legal action if they don’t want to do business with us.”
$395 +gst
Give Rubbish Direct a call today to find out what it can do for you and your business.
John Webber, General Manager, Glass Packaging Forum Inc. |Cel. 021 949 215 E. john@glassforum.org.nz | To find out more visit www.glassforum.org.nz.
34 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
or phone 0800 4 ToDAY (0800 486 329)
*
apply now
Kiwi Owned
The Forum was established to ensure that where possible no recovered waste glass goes to landfill. While it supports the remanufacture of glass into new containers it also works to ensure that alternative uses are or selling glass containers and has available for that glass not suitable taken a direct role in recycling for the furnace. beverage containers and other packaging from public places The Forum is the first packaging through its management of the organisation to receive LoveNZ Programme. accreditation for its Product Stewardship Scheme in support The Forum funds the development of all enterprises involved in the of infrastructure and research into manufacturing, importing, filling alternative uses.
NZ s largest Kiwi owned job site
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Rubbish Direct Limited PO Box 69-145 Glendene Auckland 0645 T (09) 818 0949 F (09) 818 0979 www.rubbishdirect.co.nz
The Glass Packaging Forum acknowledges that Rubbish Direct’s operation provides very high quality glass back to the manufacturer, OI New Zealand for the production of new bottle and jars. The Rubbish Direct recycling facility ensures a minimum of cross contamination of the different products and provides facilities to ensure that the residents of over 17,000 apartments have the opportunity to recycle their packaging and glass containers approptiately. For more information about Glass Packaging Forum, visit www.glassforum.org.nz or to contact the general manager, John Webber, call 021 949 215 or email john@glassforum.org.nz
LooKInG For STAFF?
Goods & Services | Libra Woodwork
Sitting
pretty
As important as it is to have a swish-red-chair or a sleek leather sofa to match your newly renovated lounge; what is holding it together is just as important. Without a solid interior frame or a sofa’s comfy roundness a chair’s clever design will not hold for long.
Wedging into the market This is where Auckland-based Libra Woodworks wedges into the upholstery market. It’s a company which prides itself on its specialist work in plywood and veneer moulders and quality frames for commercial and domestic furniture components. It makes anything from the moulded plywood for office chairs and stool seats, to the frames of lounge chairs, sofas and ottomans. Its 34-year-history means it’s no newcomer into the market – Libra Woodworks knows how to get it done and does it well. Since it’s creation in 1978 by Norman Newbold and four business partners, John Byles, Neil Matheson, Winifred Spencer and Don Whitley, Libra has been moulded into a well-rounded business.
The name Libra – for those wondering where it came from – is the zodiac sign of the scales. Uncannily the majority of all five founders were born under the zodiac sign of Libra. In a short five years it grew so much it had to expand its home-site in Onehunga, renting the building next door as well as another one nearby to house its growing stack of products. In 1992 Norman retired and the buildings amalgamated into one big 10,000 square feet site. It’s a point of pride for the company that even in the midst of the recession it had room to grow – employing three young men. Today the business is still going strong under the management of owners, Neville and Cheryl Witana who oversee the 8-member team. It’s a small but nevertheless dedicated team who have shown how capable they are of weathering it through the good and the bad.
As suppliers of high-quality timber and timber products, we source and supply timber products for a wide variety of uses.
What do you want in a chair? Do you judge a chair by its cover? Many, myself included, shallowly look only at the exterior of a chair – without a second thought for what is inside. At least not until you jump onto a poorly made sofa, and your bottom painfully hits the interior skeleton.
No job too big or small
Commitment to the craft
Making up the framework of a chair is not as easy as 1, 2, 3. Everything at Libra is made by hand en masse. The process is an intricate one involving careful pattern making, cutting and piecing things together just right, before shipping it off to customers in one piece.
Libra Woodworks, as a family business that cares, takes pride in being able to gain a competitive market advantage by keeping up to date with market trends and changes.
As much as possible the work is tailored to its customer’s specifications. Its clientele includes, furniture supplier, Interior Resources Ltd, family business, Bournville Furniture Group who deal with NZ Universities and Government buildings, Gregory Commercial Furniture who provide for District Health Boards and the New Zealand Defence Force, McDonald’s through furniture supplier, Cintesi, and the Hawkes Bay Opera House and Invercargill Civic Theatre thanks to Metalon Ltd. The scale of projects that Libra Woodworks takes on ranges, but some are certainly worth raving about, its work for the Invercargill Civic Theatre was part of a $15.8 million upgrade in 2004 – 2005.
“We are committed to providing quality craftmanship in all our work.”
The Process 1 – Timber is moulded – ready to be cut
2- Pattern for cutting is developed
3- Frame measured and ready for production
4 – Put together the puzzle
5 – Finished product ready for shipping
Being part of such a huge project is a cause for pride, especially when it has made a theatre, in a city so close to the bottom of the world, a much-applauded performing arts and Libra Woodwork events facility that seats 1015 people. 6 Selwyn Street Onehunga In addition, keeping to its home-grown kiwi family spirit, the company has also donated to Auckland the Westpac Helicopter Trust for half a decade, T (09) 636 5257 as well as to the Child Cancer Foundation and F (09) 634 0051 E info@librawoodwork.co.nz many others.
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Pleased to be associated with Libra Woodwork Woodform Design has pioneered research into technology to develop systems for the bending and shaping of solid timber and MDF. Woodform Design Limited 58 The Concourse, Henderson, Auckland Phone: 64 9 835 4107 | Fax: 64 9 835 4180 Email: dave@woodbenders.co.nz
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www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 35
Hospitality | West Brook Wines
Wine’s
essential passion
Out of the clay soil of Waimauku emerges an elegant wine, wearing an eau de parfum of ripe summer stone fruits, lemon blossom, brioche and toasted almonds. Hints of nutmeg and tamarind sustained by a citrus finish, top off the wine - thrusting it into the spotlight as a well-deserved award winner.
According to West Brook Winery’s cellar door manager, Susan Ivicevich, its iconic Chardonnays have won more than 400 awards in the last 12 years. Its success is thanks to the work of a team who know the essential ingredient of wine – passion. The winery has certainly earned its reputation, but it isn’t too big for its boots. It continues to run a business that is successful, yet maintains a family feel - making it a place where people want to go and linger.
A glimpse of paradise It helps the winery is set in the middle of lush countryside – just 30 minutes out of Auckland suburbia. The idyllic 20-acre plot of land is in the midst of the Waikoukou Valley in Waimauku, Auckland. Its cellar door provides the entrance to the world of West Brook wines. Its view overlooks a tranquil duck pond, a terraced picnic area and 13 acres of flourishing grape vines.
Getting a taste Susan says the cellar door is the ideal place for people to come and see how delightful the West Brook Winery is and get a taste of the award-winning wines that are the foundation of its reputation. “You can try all and see all at the cellar door,” she says. Thanks to the friendly and knowledgeable staff, visitors will come away with a fun learning experience. Susan says visitors can gain a finer appreciation of a good wine’s qualities, as wine selection is discussed and the craft behind the art is illustrated.
“
though there is truth in the white wine with fish, red wine with meat mantra, things are changing
list, but also adds at the end of the day, though there is truth in the white wine with Wine tastings are free – for groups of less than fish, red wine with meat mantra, things are changing. In the world of contemporary eight. Tour operators and larger groups are cuisine there is room for a bit of “mix n offered a more formal wine tasting in West Brook’s upstairs tasting room. At a small cost, match”. “Be adventurous and experiment,” these tastings include a selection of six wines, she says. “Wine and food is a great stimulator of discussion.” crackers and antipasto platters. When asked about general advice on what to drink with what, Susan paints an extensive
On the cellar door shelves there is certainly a choice of wines to play “mix n match” with
”
– to buy or just taste. All current wines are available for purchase along with a selection of older boutique wines that are not available for purchase anywhere else. The cellar door is open seven days a week for people to peruse through at their leisure. And once you have had your fix of the cellar door, Susan says guests are more than welcome to stay and revel in the winery’s surrounds.
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Hospitality | West Brook Wines Susan says James works tirelessly throughout each vintage – nurturing the grapes and juice so that it becomes a wine that reaches its full potential. “The boys [James, Anthony, Linton, Mike and Michael] always rise to the occasion,” Susan says. After all running a winery is not without its challenges. “You get one chance a year to make the wine – you must give it your best. Winemaking and vineyard operations are a very costly exercise and a lot of time and energy is required. We hope that people do come here, enjoy the surroundings and the cellar door and appreciate the effort it takes to make the outstanding wines they enjoy”.
Growing the grapes As much as passion is key to good wine – the grapes are the base – without grapes there would be no wine. So West Brook ensures it maintains a good supply of grapes for its range of wines. Harvest 1952 vineyard, how you treat and care for the vines, that makes the difference between Part of what makes it so perfect is that West good and outstanding wine,” he says. Linton Brook is a family tradition that has been cared adds a balance is needed between tradition for and passed through four generations, and innovation, “There seems little point in starting with Susan’s grandfather-in-law Mick continuing in a family business if one does Ivicevich back in 1935. not learn from the past whilst constantly seeking to improve the future.” The winery was first built in the valley’s of Henderson, but as the landscape changed and Wine lovers the winery grew they moved to the current site in Waimauku. This boutique family-owned winery is run by a team of wine-lovers, not the alcoholic type, ‘It’s a lot bigger now,” says Susan. But West but people who simply love the process of Brook is still a boutique winery, combining winemaking and understand what it takes to traditional winemaking methods with make a great, successful wine. new and upcoming modern winemaking technology. “Passion is the essential ingredient for wine,” Susan says. And it is this passion which fuels The current wine wizards are Anthony the team at West Brook. Ivicevich – Susan’s husband and James Rowan. Anthony, a third generation wine-maker, has She adds they are a family-run winery not grown up with the business and now works as just in the traditional family sense, but in the the managing director. His experience in the wider community sense. “We do everything industry has been a combination of hands-on together,” she says. “When we succeed, it’s experience and industry related courses. His not ‘I’ that has been successful, rather that life-time in wine has given him an instinct ‘we’ have succeeded as a team.” and the know-how to produce not just good – This is evident in the day to day dynamics but great wine. at the winery, as well as in the success of His son, Linton Ivicevich, has been close its products. “The focus has always been on his heels from an early age. The fourth on high-quality wine,” Susan says. “But generation of this family to be in the business, being passionate is the key to wine-making. Linton has a love for the vines and working You have got to be fussy, no short-cuts are around the winery. With his heart rooted allowed – you have got to be pedantic.” firmly in the land – he is more likely to be Thanks to wine-maker James Rowan – all the found toiling in the vineyard than parked vision behind the wine is made a reality. He behind a desk in the office. is the man of magic behind the glass of vino Today Linton works with the winemaking many a kiwi loves to drink. team constantly looking for ways to improve the quality of the grapes they produce on their vineyard. “The climate and soils only go so far, so it is also what you do in the
Like father – like son
Picnicking in style Susan says West Brook’s setting is a beautiful place to just take some time-out. With a tranquil picnic area by the pond, it’s an ideal place to enjoy lunch with friends and family in that true old-fashioned kiwi-style, with barbeques available for use. For those not armed with a picnic basket – never fear. The cellar door is well prepared for those who aren’t; with a fridge full of cheese, salami, crackers, mussels – and of course – a bottle of West Brook wine. While picnicking people can also enjoy the mental stimulation of a game of giant chess, or try their hand at a game of Petanque on its international-sized court. Make a whole day of it, Susan encourages. As aside from the winery, around the area there is plenty to see and do; hang out at Muriwai Beach by the gannet colony on the way home from the winery or go on a horse trek, then off to Parakai for a dip at the geothermal heated hot pools. It’s the perfect hideaway from the big smoke.
Some of the fruit, chardonnay, pinot gris, malbec and pinot noir, are grown at it’s Auckland vineyard. Auckland, as one of New Zealand’s oldest wine growing regions, has a growing reputation for chardonnay and pinot gris and West Brook has a microclimate that typically is five degrees celsius different from other parts of the Auckland region, giving the fruit more complexity. The remaining balance of fruit, savvignon blanc, riesling, gewürztraminer, chardonnay and pinot noir, are sourced from the rapidly growing and internationally recognised viticulture region of Marlborough, thanks to a partnership from Wairau Valley’s Wiffen Estate.
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Proud to be associated with West Brook Wines 12 Bancroft Crescent, Glendene, Waitakere 0602 Ph: +64 9 818 7802 Fax: +64 9 818 2108 Email: rgharrisltd@ihug.co.nz Web: www.rgharrisltd.co.nz
www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 37
Hospitality | West Brook Wines Testimonials Sustainable wines With such large amounts of vineyards in New Zealand – there is no denying there is some impact on the environment. In today’s growing awareness around sustainability West Brook has made the effort to minimise the cost to the environment. It is a member of Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand, which ensures every aspect of West Brook’s viticulture, including winery wastes, are monitored. There is a form of modern record keeping and management system for every block within a vineyard; making sure what is taken from the land is returned to the land. Spray usage is minimised and soil management is monitored. West Brook’s vision is to work closely with the environment and to encourage the natural predators to maintain and control pests and disease in and around the vineyard and to maintain New Zealand’s clean, green environment.
Consumer satisfaction West Brook prides itself on being a haven for the community and it’s not all talk as customer reviews are nothing short of raving. Reviews on the TripAdvisor website have given it a brand spanking five star rating – showing guests have found nothing amiss at the winery with its great service and even better wine.
“Very friendly staff and excellent venue for a picnic – with wine from the vineyard.” Monty
“It was great to find a winery which produced such high quality wines grown, fermented and bottled on site, no imported rubbish. Highly recommend to the discerning traveller wanting a true Kiwi experience. Very friendly knowledgeable owners. Beautiful location and outlook, great spot for a summer picnic lunch.” Zippy
“We visited twice during our most recent trip to New Zealand – we enjoyed chatting with the folks here and both times picked up a few bottle of wine – we enjoyed the Gewurztraminer and Chardonnays in particular – on our second visit, we bought a bottle and spent an hour or so on the grounds – even played a game of chess on the large board outside – a great way to spend an afternoon.” Megan and Thom from New York.
Susan’s wines to dine With Thai food Gewurztraminer 2011, Waimauku Pinot Gris 2011, Marlborough Pinot Gris 2011 With fish Riesling 2011, Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010 With risottos and pastas Waimauku Estate Chardonnay 2011, Riesling 2009 & 2010, Waimauku Pinot Gris 2011 With beef Any red or chardonnay With venison Malbec, Waimauku Pinot Noir 2010, Marlborough Pinot Noir 2009 With Indian Marlborough Pinot Noir 2010, Waimauku Pinot Gris 2011 For dessert Late Harvest Riesling, Sparkling Rosé, Méthode Traditionelle Rouge
Gold Awards
Star players
West Brook Estate Chardonnay 2008 New Zealand International Wine Show 2010 Air New Zealand Wine Awards 2010 Royal Easter Show Wine Awards 2010
Champion wines “Have been to Westbrook on a few occasions and am always happy to take friends who visit as part of a little wine tour. The vineyard is a little off the beaten track, but well worth finding. The wines are great, served in their tasting room by knowledgeable staff (including the owner) and the bonus is the grounds they have which provide such a great spot for a picnic.” Timbo
West Brook Barrique Fermented Chardonnay 2009
West Brook Barrique Fermented New Zealand International Wine Show
Liquorland International Wine Competition 2010 Royal Easter Show Wine Awards 2011
Chardonnay 2007
West Brook Marlborough Gewurztraminer 2009
Champion Wine of the Show
Air New Zealand Wine Awards 2010
Champion Chardonnay Champion Commercial White Wine West Brook Marlborough International Aromatic Wine Competition Gewurztraminer 2010
West Brook Estate Chardonnay 2008 Royal Easter Wine Awards 2010 West Brook Riesling 2009 New Zealand International Wine Show 2010
Champion Gewurztraminer
West Brook Riesling 2010
Supreme Champion Wine in Show
New Zealand International Wine Show 2011
Directions From Auckland go to the end of the North Western Motorway, at the roundabout continue straight through onto SH16 then turn right at Old North Road – opposite Soljans Winery. Drive for about 7 kilometres through the forestry and turn right into Ararimu Valley Rd. West Brook is 2km on the left. West Brook Winery 215 Ararimu Valley Road Waimauku R.D.2 Auckland Anthony (09) 411 9924 or 021 64 55 74 Susan (09) 411 9924 or 021 300 320 E enquiries@westbrook.co.nz www.westbrook.co.nz — Advertising Feature Untitled-1 1
38 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
26/04/12 12:31 PM
Hospitality | Barworks
Social networks
There’s something about walking into a bustling pub that makes you feel connected. It doesn’t matter if you don’t know anyone in the crowd, after a tough day at work being around like-minded people in a friendly environment can be all it takes to restore a sense of balance.
Barworks’ bars near you
Need a place to party?
Auckland
In need of somewhere to hold that special function? Any of these bars can help you. With daily delegate packages, function room hire that includes AV equipment, a range of tailored menus and fully equipped bars to relax in; Barworks Functions and Events has an option that suits. Function rooms hold between 40 – 100 people.
Humans are social creatures; a pack society that craves the company of others. But as we become increasingly attached to our tech-toys it can be harder to maintain basic social ties. It’s this sense of community that is the mantra of the Barworks Hospitality Group.
The Flying Moa, Mt Wellington
could be done differently in the industry and the union was made. The resulting partnership is known as Barworks and has allowed the company to grow from seven outlets to 17 nationwide.
This theme of partnership has filtered from head office to the pub floor. Rather than Catalysing connections taking over entirely, Barworks shakes hands Barworks managing director John Hellebrekers with local owners. “We give support to the is trying to re-ignite communities. “It’s owner, but he or she is the “mayor of the something that’s dear to our heart,” he says. village,” says John. It is the “mayor” who is “We saw a sense of community was missing the hands-on face of the bar dealing with the and we wanted to bring this back into the local community. suburbs. People have told me they don’t get a chance to talk to their neighbours on the The advantage is each pub maintains its own street – but they’ve become mates with them unique identity that fits right into its own in their local bar.” location. “Each bar is a stand-a-lone place,” he says. Clubbing may not always be the best place to meet new people, but a good local pub A gastro-delight is often the groundwork for making new friendships or refreshing old ones. Barworks has dubbed their offerings ‘gastropubs’. Gastronomical is the order of the day, Which is why all but one of the Barworks offerings, Degree in the Auckland Viaduct, are with an equal emphasis on beverages and strategically situated in shopping centres or in food, reinforced with great service. Each bar is designed to be comfy for both the young and the suburbs. seasoned pub-goers. “The whole idea is that “We work hard at becoming part of the if you and I go to one of the pubs, we will be community,” John says. “We sponsor local able to find something that suits each of our sports teams, we fundraise, we offer our tastes,” John says. venues as meetings for local P.T.As. Our goal You’re certainly spoilt for choice. The large is to become the local of each suburb we represent.” bistro-style menus offer everything from grilled food to salads, pizzas and burgers. The A brew of partners beer is, of course; 100 percent supplied by DB Breweries. From craft brews like Monteith’s to Barworks was born out of a partnership with international premium brands like Heineken JAG Hospitality and DB Breweries. The two and Tiger. companies brainstormed over how things
Pleased to be associated with Barworks • Fresh chicken products • Frozen duck • Frozen turkey • Frozen poussins • Frozen quail Ph: (09) 815 0800 | Mob: (021) 860 730 E: poultrydist@xtra.co.nz
Basalt, Howick Celsius, Botany Junction Degree, The Viaduct The Dominion, Mt Eden The Elephant Wrestler, Takapuna Fibber McPhees, East Tamaki Garrison Public House, Sylvia Park
Simply contact Xanthe Smythe on (09) 573 0078 or email xanthe@functionandevents.co.nz
Ginger Minx, Mt Eden Goode Brothers Botany, Botany Town Centre Mama Loco, Albany The Merchant Bar & Kitchen, Albany Moreton’s, St Heliers Villager, Remuera The Zookeeper’s Son, Royal Oak Christchurch The Running Bull, Addington, Christchurch.
Barworks Hospitality Group Level 1 The Zookeeper’s Son 715 Mt Albert Rd Royal Oak, Auckland T (09) 573 0218 E info@barworks.co.nz www.barworks.co.nz
— Advertising Feature
Proudly associated with Barworks Jet Cleaning Services is proud to support Barworks in delivering the best in New Zealand hospitality for over 12 years. Together, Jet Cleaning and Barworks set the standard for impeccable presentation and hygiene in the hospitality industry. YOUR ONE STOP SERVICE FOR CLEANING, CONSUMABLES, WASHROOM, PEST MANAGEMENT, CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY SHAMPOOING, WATER BLASTING AND FLOOR CARE
Tel. 09 302 1536 Fax. 09 302 1539 Email. enquiries@jetcleaning.co.nz Web. www.jetcleaning.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 39
Hospitality | Cocktails and Cake
Success on a
platter
Devon Webb dreams of being an “awesome bartender” and travelling the world. Helping him on his path to success is Aucklandbased Professional Bar and Restaurant School (PBRS). “A real highlight for me is that one of my tutors is also the eighth best bartender in the world,” he says. “Learning the art of mixing drinks and cocktails from him is an amazing experience and I just know that if I learn from the best then I am also going to be the best.” PBRS company director Scott Ramsay says the presence of highly skilled industry professionals teaching within his school is a unique point of difference from others. “We are run by hospitality professionals, not educators who have decided to take on hospitality.” The PBRS offers a mix of short-term and long-term hospitality courses, with anything
from a two-week bar-tending course to a one year National Certificate in Hospitality (Level 4) or a two year Diploma in Hospitality (Level 5). Students are not restricted to being “just waiters or bartenders”, with a wide range of career options available to them. Scott says it’s all up to the students what they want to do. “It’s up to them whatever their aspirations are. If they just want to waiter, that’s great, but if they want to be top management of a huge hospitality chain, they can do that too.” Professional Bar and Restaurant School 144-148 Hobson Street Auckland Central T (09) 920 3934 — Advertising Feature E info@pbrs.co.nz
Special Corporate Rates*
$105 + GST
cake
Say it with a
Arguably the greatest thing about cakes is whenever you think about them; it puts a smile on your face. For an Auckland-based cake decorating business smiles are a-plenty, with cupcakes, wedding cakes, birthday cakes and even naughty cakes for sale, in a delightfully decorated, full packages of yummy goodness. Edible art
Baking up business
Despite simply being called Cupcake the business is a whole lot more than the minicakes. Owner Rachel Ibrahim says its cakes are edible pieces of art. “Whether it is fun, funky, elegant, dramatic or contemporary, let us create something unique to suit your occasion and bring your ideas to life.”
Cupcake is a story of true kiwi-ingenuity. Rachel, a mother-of-two, began decorating cupcakes for her two girls, Sabrina and Nazera. Self-taught, but passionate about her work, Rachel had a natural flair at the art of cake-decorating.
Rachel says cupcakes are no longer confined to the days of high-teas with Granny, they are the rage all over again. “Cupcakes are perfect for any occasion,” she says. “Our handcrafted edible toppings are created with lots of love and attention to detail.” And the packaging is just as divine, with gorgeous boxes and personalised cards to dress them up for delivery throughout Auckland.
• Free Wifi up to 200mb pd • In-house Restaurant • Discount self parking* • Discount airport transfer* • Convenient Location, short walk to Sky Tower, Queen St, Viaduct, Aotea Square & Civic Theatre *Subject to availability www.achhobson.co.nz
The beauty inside There are a lot of delicious cake flavours to choose from, all baked fresh in Rachel’s “A Grade” kitchen, with quality ingredients. “We also do dairy free, eggless and glutenfree options by request.” From the all-time favourite chocolate cake, to tropical passion, banana spice and tangy lemon, all promise a melt-in-your mouth experience.
Friends and family recognised her skill, and through word of mouth the demand for her service grew. Now almost a decade later the business has just continued to slowly rise. “We were working from home at the start and using a YMCA kitchen,” she says. “But it was getting too busy and so we decided to take the leap.” So in September last year, Rachel opened up a shop in Grey Lynn, Auckland. On any given week, she ships out over 10 decorated cakes and fills even more orders for cupcakes. As well as the baked goods, Rachel hires out baking equipment and sells cake-decorating products. For those who are unable to tell one end of an icing-piper from another; cake decorating classes are also on offer. It’s a welcome change from her former work in an office, Rachel says. “Cake decorating is a lot better than that.” And as her business is certainly on an upward climb, there appears to be no need for her to run back to her previous day job anytime soon.
Cupcake specialties Cupcake Towers 21st Birthday Cakes Birthday Cakes Corporate Cakes Wedding Cakes Christmas Cakes Novelty Cakes Naughty Cakes Baby Shower Cakes
Shop hours
For reservation, +64 9 925 0777 or res@achhobson.co.nz For corporate rate, +64 9 925 0704 or bdm@achhobson.co.nz
Providing professional and friendly advice to both domestic and commercial clients in search of all forms of Fire and General Insurance and Life, Health and Income Insurance.
Pleased to support Cupcake Ph. 09 3732532 Fax. 09 3734346 Level 7, The General Building, Shortland Street Auckland
www.barnesjenkins.co.nz 40 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 2pm
Cupcake 4 Newton Road Grey Lynn Auckland T (09) 378 9448 E rachel@cupcake.co.nz www.cupcake.co.nz — Advertising Feature
Hotspots | Elliott Stables
A decadent taste of
European elegance Ladies heels battle the cobblestone paths, alleyways are set aglow by the warm lamp-lights. A mellow, melodious atmosphere fills the air. Each doorway shows a glimpse of another country. It’s a scene reminiscent of the era of European elegance and the horse-drawn carriage. To relive the nostalgia of 19 century Europe, one no longer needs a time-machine. Nor does one need to spend 24 hours cramped into a plane-seat crossing the globe – when hidden in the heart of Auckland city’s concrete suburbia is Elliott Stables. th
Set in the original Archibald Clarke and Sons warehouse of the 1800s the stables are a piece of stylish Auckland heritage, housing not horses but “Auckland’s favourite marketplace” on Elliott Street. Around the large village-like commons distinct market-style artisans sell their wares, from organic meats and cheeses, to wines, cakes, liqueurs and whisky. All this is infused with gourmet eateries ranging from Spanish tapas, French creperies, Italian bruschetterias and German sausage makers. The beauty of the setting is it’s easy for members of a large party to eat and drink what they like. No longer do you need to worry whether Granny likes Italian, or if second cousin Vinny is a vegan. There are choices aplenty.
Authentic French
Romantic Italian
Walking into Torchon Creperie you are greeted To make your own episode of Disney’s “Lady by an array of red-chequered table-cloths. and the Tramp” – sharing a delicious plate of French staff call-out a cheery, “Bonjour!” spaghetti with your significant other, only to tangle yourselves into a kiss – look no further In true French style be seated and enjoy a than De Niro Ristorante. traditional sweet crepe or savoury galette for breakfast. The crepes are exactly as they From a classic spag bol to a more decadent should be – thin, warm and soft in the mouth. risotto or even just a light chicken salad, De Sweet or savoury – both offer a culinary Niro’s serves it all up in its cute, tastefully dream, infused with a taste of France. decorated setting, surrounded by the gentle hubbub of Elliott stables. It’s Italy on a plate. Though crepes are Torchon’s specialty, it also offers a full menu of French flavours, escargot De Niro T (09) 365 1166 for the adventurous to decadent desserts. Hours: Weekdays & Saturday 10am – 10pm And of course a glass of le vin français. From breakfast to dinner Torchon promises an Giving dessert is just desserts authentic French meal. It’s an artistic sweet-lover’s dream – Torchon French Creperie Delectable Desserts. In a unique charming T (09) 368 7917 place those in search of an escape from Hours: reality are greeted by a pool of decadence. Weekdays 8:30 am – 10 pm. This restaurant mixes art and dessert with Saturday 9am – 10pm stylish panache. A real chocolate soup to Sunday 9am – 3pm make a chocolate lover swoon, the meltHappy Hour 5pm – 6pm in-your-mouth traditional kiwi pavlova and Weekdays: 25 percent off all drinks the twisted lemon meringue pie – there is a dessert for everyone.
A bite of Spain The place to go for an eclectic lunch date or a romantic dinner is El Faro Spanish Restaurant and Tapas Bar. With its scrumptious green lipped mussel pots, delicious organic meats and vegetarian dishes – the best way to enjoy the Spanish experience – is by mixing it up with a range of tapa dishes. Owner Mark Ansley and partner Sarah, have had a love of Spain, its food and its people since their extended European sojourn some years ago. Mark who has been a chef for over half his life, has a passion for “getting back to the basics with food”. He has a strong belief in sustainability and sourcing local produce – all of which is reflected in the selection of tapas he dishes out. One bite is all it takes to fall in love with Spain. On-site, El Faro also has a private air-conditioned dining room that can be used rent free with a set menu from $25/pp. El Faro T (09) 365 1111 Hours: Monday –Thursday open for lunch and dinner Open all day Friday and Saturday
Regular art exhibitions, opening nights all combined with dessert tasting and discussions around art – brings a new meaning to the term creative dining. Delectable Desserts T (09) 377 0946 E delectabledesserts@mail.ru Hours: Mon-Sat 12pm till late
Tantalising tastes Besos Latinos Caribbean, South American, Mexican cuisine Basilicum Vegan whole foods Bruschetteria Italian bruschetta De Niro Italian cuisine Delectable Desserts For a sweet fix of art El Faro Spanish restaurant and tapas bar Frankies Wurstbude European sausage house with all the trimmings Big Little Grill Charcoal grilled, wholesome food Reslau Café and wine bar Samurai Sushi Japanese cuisine Torchon French Creperie Traditional French crepes and galettes
An easy buy Artisan fine wine suppliers A range of boutique wines, sourced specially and brought in from niche areas around the world – it’s a wine connoisseurs dream Suri Florist
Party at the Stables Besos Latinos is the place to party in style – with a live “romantic” Tango show every Thursday at 7:30pm and live Latin music every Friday from 7:30pm. Heating up the heart of Auckland CBD with its innovative menu from Argentina, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Mexico, Brazil and Cuba it’s all a buzz. Bring out your dancing shoes and find a partner to fight it out on the dance floor. With room to seat up to 75 people – it’s an ideal place to hold a dinner party in Latin style. Besos Latinos T (09) 303 0217 E besoslatinos@gmail.com Hours: Open weekdays 12pm – 2:30pm & 5:30pm – late Saturday 5:30pm – late
Forgotten to buy the birthday girl a gift – Suri’s Florist has a range of bouquets to show you care The Whisky Shop Auckland’s original whisky shop for a bottle of drink to take home and savour Elliott Stables is open Monday to Sunday from breakfast until late. Elliott Stables 39 Elliott Street Auckland City www.elliottstables.co.nz Places to park: Wilson car park on Elliott Street Civic car park Aotea Square Sky City Casino car park www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 41
Property & Construction | NZ Renovation
love
Put a little into your
home
For a home renovation of any size or budget, the New Zealand Renovation Company is the answer. Whether you need your home renovated to cater for the growing family or need the bathroom remodelled with modern fittings, it can help you through the building process. NZ Renovation Company is owned by Darrel Assink, a qualified builder and carpenter with a passion for exploring new building techniques and using new building materials.
Darrel and his team are also completing a full renovation, including new kitchen, bathrooms and wall linings, on a mid-’70s house in Tuakua.
While his business does undertake new home builds, it is renovations that Darrel feels most strongly about.
In addition, NZ Renovation Company does commercial renovation projects, including kindergartens, schools, medical centres and commercial fitouts.
“I like the contact with the existing clients and I like the renovation process,” he says. “You’re generally working in the house when the owner is living there. You have to be clean and tidy and keep all the services on. There’s a lot of involvement directly with the client. You do what you claimed to do at the start, and they are still my friend and will shake my hand at the end.” NZ Renovation Company can offer a complete service from design right through to project management, but is also happy to work in a more specified role if the client prefers
Covering all the bases NZ Renovation Company is based in Franklin but undertakes projects throughout the greater Auckland region. Many of its project houses were built in the 1960s and early ‘70s. Renovation jobs can range from kitchen and bathroom upgrades through to full renovations, new roofs, building a new deck, relining walls and installing insulation or building extensions. The company is currently building a large 45 square metre lounge extension onto a house in Western Springs, which will give the owners great indoor-outdoor flow and an extended living area.
42 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
“We do a lot of bathrooms and kitchens so the services side has to be really well timed to ensure minimal disruption to the client. These companies are really good at being available when we need them, often at short notice.” The company’s main supplier is Bunnings.
“We work with you to achieve the best results, whether it be your ideal lifestyle, meeting your budget or working with a particular site,” says Darrel.
New Zealand Renovation Company’s services include:
“You can expect high quality building construction with our builder and project management services.”
Design and draughting.
Working relationships
Project management.
Forming strong working relationships have been key to the success of the New Zealand Renovation Company. Managing director Darrel Assink makes a point of using only the best suppliers and subcontractors to work with. “My subcontractors are all hand picked. They’ve been whittled down over the years by natural selection. If they haven’t performed or looked after my clients to the same degree we do, then they don’t last,” he says. “It all comes down to service, quality “and reliability.” New Zealand Renovation Company works particularly closely with Collett Electrical in Tuakau and Coppertop Plumbing and Drainage.
Advice and planning.
Building, construction and engineering.
Customers can expect: Personal service with professional advice. High-quality results, on time and on budget. Guaranteed workmanship by qualified contractors. Communication from concept to completion.
Client testimonial “We would highly recommend the NZ Renovation Company. Darrel and his team were prompt, professional, understanding and friendly. They fitted in with what we wanted and also made great suggestions for our renovations, giving different options within our budget. The workmanship was faultless and when other tradespeople were needed, this was dealt with effortlessly with no hassle for us at all. As we have two small children, the work carried out in our living space was done quickly and they even tidied up! All this and still done on budget – very impressive.” Robyn Wilkinson, Pukekawa
Property & Construction | NZ Renovation
An Auckland home before its extensive renovation by the New Zealand Renovation Company.
After the renovation: this home’s owners are thrilled with the final result.
A focus on courtesy and care
A great renovation offer
Almost all of New Zealand Renovation Company’s work comes from client referrals and recommendations - a testament to the high quality of workmanship the company consistently achieves.
New Zealand Renovation Company offers Auckland Today customers free quotes done within a few days, as well as renovation services and products at great prices.
“Our business model is to treat everybody the same, whether it’s a $400,000 renovation or a $4000 renovation,” says managing director Darrel Assink.
“I try to have quotes done within two days, although it does depend on the scale of the quote,” Assink says.
“All of our vehicles carry vacuums, we have floor protectors, and everybody has the same level of courtesy and care taken into every property. Nobody wants to be letting down the squad.” Choosing the NZ Renovation Company for your home renovation project means choosing to take the stress out of your project. “The general consensus that we get from people is that we do what we say we’re going to do,” Assink says. “We turn up on time; we do a neat, efficient, clean job that they know is reliable; and we back up everything we do. We try and handle the job right through the process of going through a council consent to when they turn the key and take possession of the building again. We handle every stage of the job. In today’s climate there are a lot of people who are busy and they don’t want the stress of dealing with subcontractors, plus it’s easier for us to project manage the entire job.”
“But I can tell the person how long it will take and we have a pretty good turn around. I’m normally available pretty much any time. I will see someone at 6.30am or 6.30pm. All quotes are free and there’s no obligation.”
The New Zealand Renovation Company can undertake any sized project.
Client testimonials
Fact file New Zealand Renovation Company can undertake:
“Right from the first phone call, I found Darrel
New bathrooms and kitchens
finished the project in quick time to a very
Relining of interior and exterior walls New roofs and repairs New decks
One such relationship is with SAYR home ventilation systems, which offers NZ Renovation Company sharp deals on its ventilation systems.
and his team a pleasure to work with. They high standard and definitely exceeded my expectations. They were pleasant throughout, nothing I asked for was a hassle and they kept the house spotless at the end of each
Home extensions
working day.”
Commercial fitouts and alterations
Greg Goldfinch, Papakura
Renovation of old villas New playgrounds for preschools “Darrel was a very reliable, approachable,
NZ Renovation Company quotes are fully itemised so the client can see all the costing breakdowns. The company’s prices are competitive, with customers benefiting from many of the strong supplier relationships Assink has developed.
A kitchen newly renovated by the New Zealand Renovation Company.
efficient project manager, ensuring that the other tradesmen were on site when required, for the smooth completion of our renovation, New Zealand Renovation Company PO Box 1154 Pukekohe, Auckland T (09) 239 0440 M (0274)539 449 E inquiry@nzreno.co.nz www.nzreno.co.nz — Advertising Feature
and on target. So for a great job, we highly recommend Darrel and the team for your house renovations.” Pauline and George Exton - 1970 full renovation, Birkenhead, Northshore
“We then off load those deals at a reduced price to our customers.”
• Residential • Commercial • Marine • Transport • Food and Hygiene • Solar Panels • Glass Renovation
Suppliers of building materials and hardware.
Proud to be associated with NZ Renovations Company Ltd Ph: (09) 237 0520 | mbuckenham@placemakers.co.nz | www.placemakers.co.nz Clean Glass Technology For more information visit www.clearshieldauckland.co.nz or phone us on 0800 257 7453
Always easier to clean | Stays cleaner for longer | Resists staining and discolouration
Counties Scaffolding
Counties Concrete Contractors
• Temporary Roof System and Temporary Floors • Commercial and Residential/Leaky Buildings • Mobile Towers • Layher Scaffold Systems • Free Quotes • Shrink Wrap
Pleased to be associated with
NZ Renovations Feature
Proud to be associated with New Zealand Renovations Phone: 0272 735 779 PO Box 1344, Pukekohe, 2120 Email: countiesconcretecontractors@rocketmail.com
PO Box 18 Tuakau Ph: 09 2368693 Fax: 09 2368647 Mobile: 0274 968 800 Email: d.j.collett@xtra.co.nz
Need Scaffold for Safe Access? Call Free 0800 924 807 or 09 Fax 09 238 6165 Email evan.allround@xtra.co.nz
238 6155
www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 43
Property & Construction | Total Infrastructure
Building on a joint
vision
The inception of Total Infrastructure Limited (TIL) in 1999 saw the amalgamation of two industry visionaries. Utilising the combined and complementary skills in civil and building construction, has ensured this highly successful venture as a market leader within the wider Auckland region. A vastly experienced senior management team guarantees a wide range of skills and expertise to suit any project.
This Auckland-based company adds longterm value to all its projects through attention to detail and versatility.
TIL has undertaken a vast range of projects in the civil construction industry. Its skills have been nurtured and further refined through the careful guidance of the directors and management team.
With high competency levels, the team at TIL provides a 24/7 responsive maintenance service, and will carry out urgent or nonurgent maintenance repairs, after careful risk analysis and evaluation of the situation by its team of dedicated project managers and engineers.
Utilising all its resources to achieve successful outcomes is a fundamental element, which has enabled the company to continue to grow, establishing its current position in the market. It also has a specialist planning team enabling it to move quickly, efficiently Civil and infrastructure services and proactively developing cost-effective schedules of preventative maintenance, Over the last 13 years Total Infrastructure which is easily tailored to suit the individual has successfully undertaken and completed requirements of any client. several significant civil projects across Auckland. The projects are primarily focused This company’s primary focus is to ensure the on the upgrading and modernisation of client’s assets and structures are maintained local environments for the bettering of our to the highest standard to ensure a costcommunities. effective beneficial life cycle is achieved The successful completion of projects cover a for all. diverse list of attributes ranging from roading The hard work of TIL can be viewed in the and footpaths, to bridges, walkways and beautification of various urban and residential boardwalks. sites scattered around greater Auckland’s The company has recently ventured into the landscape, which have also been made integration of Ultra Fast Broadband, which safer through the dedication to detail when has highlighted its ability in being innovative undertaking upgrades and improvements. when tasked with difficult situations. Developing ways to minimise cost while increasing quality when faced with operational challenges like horizontal drilling, ducting and laying of cable, has proven TIL’s team to be a highly capable group.
The team at TIL ensures safety is of paramount concern and continually maintained throughout the construction process, ensuring high levels of pedestrian safety and traffic management are followed.
Proud to support Total Infrastructure Limited
Thorough understanding of the Industry Total Infrastructure has won a number of significant high-profile long-term contracts, due to its drive for continual improvement and review of its integrated quality management systems. This constant awareness to deliver the best them achieve the highest standards of work when in relation to health and safety, as well as environmental management and all other areas of business. The entire team believes it is imperative to identify from the outset what their key deliverables are in relation to each individual client. In the words of one of the founding directors, Ashok Kapadia: “The TIL team has put in significant effort over the years and are well-versed in the non-negotiable requirements of council contracts. We are very confident about our ability to meet our client’s needs now, and in the future.”
Total Infrastructure’s vision and values • Health and safety compliance • The environment • Quality – TIL consistently delivers quality workmanship in everything it does • Stakeholders and staff
»builder’s mix »sealing chip
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For Trade enquiries phone 09-525 9307 or find us online: www.winstoneaggregates.co.nz 44 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz
Total Infrastructure Limited has worked hard to form strong business relationships with clients and gain certification in areas that have and continue to help it grow. The company has formed progressive working relationship with a range of companies including Downer, ARMA (Auckland Road Maintenance Alliance), Fulton Hogan, Blacktop Construction Limited, Auckland City Council, and the private sector. Working closely with central and local government is also a critical element of Total Infrastructure’s operation. The company is a nominated supplier to the Auckland Transport, the Ministry of Education, the Department of Conservation and Auckland Airport. TIL certifications: ISO9001, TQS1, ISO14001, AS/NZS 4801, ACC WSMP and is Site Safe accredited. TIL Membership: RNZ, NCF, EMA
• Keeping its promises – the company is committed to delivering exactly what it says it will, on time and within budget.
IT CONSUL TANT S SIMPLIFIED T ECHNOLOGY
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Winstone Aggregates is New Zealand’s largest manufacturer and distributor of aggregates and sands including:
Important business relationships
Get peace of mind that comes with knowing your technology needs are taken care of by the proffesionals. At PowerNet we provide superior technology solutions that add value to our client’s businesses by placing them at the centre of everything we do.
320 Ti Rakau Drive, Burswood, Manukau 2013, Auckland Mob. 021 66 66 70 | Tel. 09 272 8603 E. info@power-net.co.nz Web. www.power-net.com
Pleased to be associated with Total Infrastructure Ltd • Wheel Alignments • Wheel Balancing • Puncture Repairs • Tyre Vulcanising • Tyre Retreading • Suspension • Shocks • Lowering kits • Oil Changes & Services • Mag Wheel Repairs • Brakes • W.O.F Repairs Ph. 09-570-9380 | 524 Ellerslie Panmure H’way, Panmure, Auckland www.haslipstyres.co.nz
Property & Construction | Total Infrastructure
TIL is currently in the process of completing a large shoulder and road widening project in the Clevedon-Papakura area over a total distance of about 3km.
Total Infrastructure has completed a wide range of civil infrastructure projects, including the Clevedon Reserve Bridge. This bridge was constructed at the Clevedon scenic reserve which is one of the premier parks in the Manukau region. The design was developed after giving careful consideration to many aspects, including paying homage to its predecessor. Apart from being the sole constructor of the bridge, TIL was closely involved in the design process utilising its expertise in building bridge structures in the past.
Footpath, channel and kerbs TIL undertakes and completes about 120,000 square metres of concrete footpath and associated works in the wider Auckland area on an annual basis, as part of its various contracts with Auckland Transport and Auckland Council. In most footpath projects, TIL undertakes to complete kerb and channel works as well.
there was no damage to the eco-system and wildlife in the area. The client was very happy with the high standard of work. TIL is currently in the process of completing a large shoulder and road widening project in the Clevedon Papakura area over a total distance of approximately 3km. This also includes additional work such as gabion walls, drainage and kerb and channel works.
What Total Infrastructure can do for you: • Civil excavation works • Parks and reserves • Structures - paths, bridges, boardwalks • Civil structures
TIL’s experienced traffic management personnel ensured that traffic management was executed effectively and safely, given that operations were in a high speed area in both cases.
• Drainage works – investigation, construction, upgrades, cesspits, manholes
Ultra-fast broadband
• Asphalt works – carparks, driveways, carriageways etc
TIL is one of the few subcontractors selected to carry out all aspects of a given package as part of the new Ultra-Fast Broadband (UFB) project being subcontracted by Vision Stream.
The works include horizontal drilling, open cut trenches, testing existing ducts, hauling, cabinet installation and reinstating footpaths and driveways to match existing, or as With good traffic and pedestrian management required by the client. procedures in place TIL was able to start and TIL has worked on packages across Auckland complete the work in a short amount of time, ranging from Albany to Avondale and East with little and almost no disruption to nearby Tamaki, and is currently working on packages businesses. in Remuera. The client and residents have been very pleased with the standard and Road widening projects quality of work completed by TIL. The road widening project in Laingholm Drive in rural West Auckland was recently completed successfully and included additional works in footpath, kerb and channel, drainage, retaining and key stone walls. TIL recently completed works in high-profile Auckland CBD areas which have a high volume of foot traffic on a daily basis.
Being situated close to a natural creek, TIL ensured all sufficient environmental protective measures were put in place to make sure
• Concrete works – carparks, driveways, paths, specialised surfaces
• Safety barriers – guardrails, security fencing, handrails, specialised fencing • Retaining walls – timber, rock walls, keystones, crib walls • Handrails – timber, steel and bridge rails • Cyclic inspections and maintenance reporting • Minor safety works – school travel plans etc • Bridge maintenance – expansion joints, strengthening, specialised concrete repairs • Footpath upgrades • Kerb and channel – upgrades and renewals
An assurance of quality Total Infrastructure has a long history of delivering safe, high-quality civil construction services. The company is continually evaluating its own performance and applying lessons learned to future work, such as improving quality (management systems) and implementing more extensive and mandatory training for management and field staff. All staff have undergone training for health and safety, while selected staff have attained STMS level 1, 2 and 3. The management team are all qualified professional engineers in their respective fields. TIL prides itself on being highly respectful of the environment and assuming a common sense approach, at all times. Total Infrastructure Limited PO Box 16092 Sandringham Auckland 1351 T (09) 629 5467 F (09) 629 5468 info@tilavd.co.nz www.totalinfrastructure.co.nz — Advertising Feature
• Utilities – Ultrafast broadband and underground services
Suppliers of quality Kraft Concrete tools and accessories
Proud to be assocociated with Total Infrastructure Ltd 8 McDonald St Morningside Auckland Ph: 09 8158 993 Fax: 09 8158 034 Mob: 021 532 843 www.troweltrades.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2012 | 45
Property & Construction | Victoria Park Market
Victoria Park Market’s
new lease of life
Whiling away the hours at your favourite market-place is a sure way of creating a relaxing and exquisite kind of day.
Strolling among boutique shops, delighting in some delectable dining and enjoying the quality entertainment, is a sure-fire recipe to indulge the soul and this is what the revamped Victoria Park Market delivers – in truck loads. The new $20 million renovation of the market has been a cathartic process, not ridding itself of the old – but instead embracing the more aged, energising it and melding it alongside a more contemporary style. As a result the Victoria Park Market now has a new lease of life, with the tired stalls of the past gone and new and exciting shops, restaurants and cafes all now entrenched at the historic site. The origins of this newly reinvigorated site are far from the remarkable development of today. In early years, it was a refuse station for the city, with the imposing 38m chimney, which towers over the area, blowing out the smoke of the rubbish as it burned.
Although the chimney is more landmark than smokestack these days, the importance of retaining the heritage of the site was pivotal in the redevelopment. Working alongside the Historic Places Trust and the Auckland City Council the developers were able to ensure the brick structures of the old were restored to their former glory. Paramount in ensuring this took place was CMP Construction; the project managers and builders hired to undergo the mammoth task of renovating the market. The company has been in the construction business since 1999, and has vast knowledge and experience in commercial and industrial builds – so were the perfect candidates to charge the refurbishment work. For CMP construction managing director, Mike van Luyt, the project has provided his company with an opportunity to ensure a piece of Auckland’s history is not only restored but will now continue to be a landmark on the
city’s landscape for many years to come. “This is an area many Aucklanders have enjoyed visiting for years. Our work here has shown that exacting project management and construction, can result in a wonderful nod to both the past and the future. We have been able to create a fantastic finish while making sure all the unseen work like strengthening and technical issues were also addressed.”
taking what could have been an ordinary marketplace into the extraordinary. The central area will allow a focal point, where different events and festivities can be located, giving the space an added vibrancy.
Enhancing the old, while integrating it with the modern and contemporary, will mean the Victoria Park Market will continue to be a pivotal shopping destination and showcase The work that has been completed has thrilled of exquisite architecture and construction for not only those who have come to partake in many years to come. the delights of the market but also industry experts. CMP construction was awarded a highly commended in the innovation section of the New Zealand Institute of Victoria Park Market Builders Awards for its work on the chimney 80 new shops, cafes and restaurants restoration and strengthening. The refurbishment has seen the introduction of 80 new shops, cafes and restaurants, an interior courtyard, ambient lighting, the creation of an entertainment stage and a large screen television – all of which will enhance visitors’ experiences, while
$20 million spent on upgrade New entertainment courtyard Purpose-designed shops
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Ph: 09 414 7581 | www.eziform.co.nz
CONTRACTING SERVICES LTD
Ph: 0274 735 642 Email: panddcontracting@yahoo.com PO Box 508 Silverdale 0944
Tyrone Hay | Tel: 09 828 3960 | Mob: 021 994 357 | Email: tyrone@synergyelectrics.co.nz Ricky Earley | Tel: 09 828 3960 | Mob: 021 966 222 | Email: ricky@synergyelectrics.co.nz Synergy Electrics Ltd. 608c Rosebank Road, Avondale - P.O Box 41-514, St Lukes, Auckland 1346
“Your Trusted Electrical Contractors” 46 May/June 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz