Auckland Today #99

Issue 99 | May/June 2013

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Chips off the

old block

The Block New Zealand winners Ben and Libby Crawford build a new business from the ground up Number seven’s stellar opportunity Richie McCaw turns his attention to the commercial world

Inside innovation The Kiwi entrepreneur who revolutionised the way the world watches sport

Why sales training works The value of upskilling salespeople can’t be overestimated

Cool advice Icehouse start-up director Ken Erskine talks SME success

Smart storage Is the cloud really right for you?

RR

nds Thousa worth rs of dolla r Rewards e of Readhis issue! in t tails for de age 4

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News | Initiatives | Interviews | Personalities | Success | Profiles | Finance | Property | Sustainability | Export | Transport | Retail | Solutions | ISSN 2230-6188

RR

Issue 99 May/June 2013

Issue 99 | May/June 2013

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Chips off the

old block

The Block New Zealand winners Ben and Libby Crawford build a new business from the ground up Number seven’s stellar opportunity Richie McCaw turns his attention to the commercial world

Inside innovation

Contents Viewpoints

Features

In Business

6 Management

9 Business tips

30 Focus

Business consultant Kevin Vincent on the merits of running better meetings

Can virtual teams outperform traditional teams?

How the royally endorsed Campaign for Wool benefits consumers and producers alike

6 Politics

11 Smart storage

34 Goods and Services

Labour Party leader David Shearer talks about the promise of prosperity

Is the cloud really right for you?

The Kiwi entrepreneur who revolutionised the way the world watches sport

Why sales training works The value of upskilling salespeople can’t be overestimated

Cool advice Icehouse start-up director Ken Erskine talks SME success

Smart storage Is the cloud really right for you?

RR

nds Thousa worth rs of dolla Rewards er of Read is issue! in th details ge 4 for

See pa

News | Initiatives | Interviews | Personalities | Success | Profiles | Finance | Property | Sustainability | Export | Transport | Retail | Solutions | ISSN 2230-6188

Auckland Today

Issue 99

34,172 ABC circulation as at 31/12/12

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MANAGING DIRECTOR Gary Collins

12 Talking the talk

7 Human resources Colin Clapp from Accountable Business Progress discusses how organisations grow when people grow

13 Why sales training works

7 Strategies

Why the value of upskilling salespeople can’t be overestimated

Project Plus CEO Iain Fraser discusses the upside of organisational agility

14 Inside innovation

8 Legal Malley & Co partner John Shingleton on how to manage a poor performing employee

We run a couple of questions past Ian Taylor - the New Zealand entrepreneur who revolutionised the way the world watches sport

16 Cover story

8 Sales

OPERATIONS MANAGER

The latest online trend that might be a keeper

Author, speaker and sales specialist Richard Gee on running a great sales meeting

The Block New Zealand winners Ben and Libby Crawford build a new business from the ground up

Kylie Moore ADMIN MANAGER Kelly Allen Jade Haylett Rhondda Brisbane Cindy Breward Penny Duns

10 Working life

18 Cool advice

Workplace advisor Karen Degan discusses how involved employers should get in the personal lives of staff

Icehouse start-up director Ken Erskine talks about the organisation’s motivation and SME success stories

SALES & ADVERTISING

10 Events diary

Di Barclay

ADMINISTRATION

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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 2013 by A-Mark Publishing (NZ) Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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4 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

This is where you find out what’s going on near you

RR Reader rewards in this issue…

The ways printing and packaging can help your business and the pressed metal specialists Kimberley Tool and Design

40 Business Development Deloitte’s top tips to keep on top of cash flow, inside Eco Stock’s mantra that a less wasteful future is a better future, enlightening experiences at Living Light Candles and the ins and outs of, and top spots for your next conference

50 Fishing Hunting and Boating Geoff Thomas calls it like it is, Hunting and Fishing New Zealand has all your outdoor kit, Electrics Afloat diversifies and Formula Cruisers can put you in the lap of luxury

62 Transport and Motoring Giving your wheels the once over at Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre

20 Digital networking

64 Hospitality

As the spotlight on social media starts to set, it’s time to take a tactical approach to online networking

A selection of culinary treats from Pickles Café, Aubergine Takapuna, The Luscious Food Store, The Viaduct Grill, the Molten Restaurant and Wine Bar and getting in the swing at the Howick Golf Club

22 Property Olly Newland says a capital gains tax simply isn’t the magic bullet some people hope for

24 Number seven’s stellar opportunity

•

Get seven Forex Trading training sessions for free on page 3

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Your chance to attend the Auckland Writers and Readers Festival for free is on page 10

•

You can get a bonus chair from Smooch Collection on page 19

26 Lifestyles

•

Be in to win a 2013 Suzuki Swift from Catalyst2 Properties on page 21

•

Get free email alerts from myjobspace.co.nz on page 36

The perfect pinot, something scoopy, a little illumination, superb sounds, the coolest camera around and one completely excessive indulgence

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Have your needs assessed for free

by Prepared Produce on page 64

Richie McCaw turns his attention to a commercial opportunity

72 Property and Construction Distinctive designs with the Leuschke Group, how Allan Wallace Builders make tough jobs look simple and Watts and Hughes Construction’s high quality ethos

72

28 Hot spots Three destinations – one close to home, another not too far away and the third well worth the trip

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Viewpoint | Management/Politics

Improving your facilitation of meetings Kevin Vincent is a director of business improvement consultants Vincent and Nugent Limited www.vincentnugent.co.nz

Facilitation - what does it mean, what are we trying to achieve and how do we do it?

Wikipedia describes facilitation as a “term broadly used to describe any activity which makes tasks for others easy, or tasks that are assisted”.

• Leads by example through attitudes, approach and actions • Periodically summarises using active listening skills clarification, paraphrasing, empathy and summarising, the group discussion to ensure consensus of understanding and the progress of the discussions

Effective facilitation in business meetings is to guide, without directing others to a point of learning or acceptance of change and is achieved through establishing wide participation, trust and engagement.

• Recognises progress with positive reinforcing statements.

The facilitator’s role is to draw out discussion, others ideas and viewpoints and to encourage a sharing, team based collaborative environment. If achieved, the group will be better able to clarify its objectives, processes and outcomes.

Groups that need to engage a facilitator often find that using a trained external facilitator makes the process more efficient and easier with everyone involved.

Facilitation is not like the traditional teacherstudent relationship; rather it is a sharing of information at all levels within a group for the purposes of increasing awareness, identifying issues, gaining collective understanding and an agreement to resolve.

• Apply a variety of participatory processes

A good facilitator will keep the meeting focused on its topic of discussion, steer the discussion on broader contexts, provide neutral perspectives and generally manage the process with appropriate time keeping.

• Create opportunities for participants to benefit from the diversity of the group

At the completion of the facilitation, or at stages of agreement throughout the process, the facilitator will encourage the group with summaries of the achievements.

A facilitator is someone who: • Does not evaluate the ideas expressed • Recognises the strengths and abilities of individual group members and helps them to feel comfortable about sharing their hopes, concerns and ideas • Helps the group focus its energies on the task • Supports the group, giving participants confidence in sharing without feeling threatened • Values diversity and is sensitive to the different needs and interests of group members • Makes sure everyone has the opportunity to participate

6 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

The facilitator must give control and responsibility to the group to make the process effective.

External appointed facilitators should: • Demonstrate effective verbal communication skills • Develop rapport with participants • Demonstrate ability to observe and provide feedback to participants

• Help individuals identify and review underlying assumptions • Recognise conflict and its role within group learning / maturity • Provide a safe environment for conflict to surface • Manage disruptive group behaviour • Support the group through resolution of conflict • Draw out participants of all learning/ thinking styles • Encourage creative thinking • Accept all ideas • Use approaches that best fit needs and abilities of the group.

The “win” is the bringing all members of the team to a point where a creative, collaborative, unified resolution has been achieved.

This is when facilitation is most effective, providing ownership and the greatest chance of success.

The promise of prosperity

David Shearer is the MP for Mt Albert and leader of the Labour Party

As the parliamentary inquiry into the future of manufacturing continues, we have been hearing the personal stories of many workers and business people who have lost jobs and income.

Some of those stories are heart-breaking; in four years, more than a thousand manufacturing companies have closed their doors with 40,000 jobs lost.

We’re seeing higher unemployment, lower export earnings, higher international debt and a slide towards a poorer New Zealand.

Jane and David Ellis from Earth Sea Sky are successful Canterbury based clothing manufacturers who made a submission to the manufacturing inquiry. They’re determined to keep manufacturing in New Zealand and should be applauded for that.

But Jane and David’s business is facing a double whammy. The high dollar means they can’t compete with overseas manufacturers when exporting, meanwhile here in New Zealand the Government’s procurement policies have seen them shut out of important local contracts that would have boosted their business.

Energetic businesspeople like Jane and David Ellis need to be met halfway by an active government that’s working for them.

I want to make it easier to do business in New Zealand. It’s imperative that we modernise our economy and turn this situation around.

First we need to create a deep pool of investment in New Zealand that businesses can draw on to expand and export to the world, upping our national income. A universal KiwiSaver will provide this.

If we implement a capital gains tax, people will be encouraged to invest in productive New Zealand businesses, rather than speculating on property (this capital gains tax will of course exclude the family home).

We want to give tax breaks to businesses that invest in research and development, encouraging innovative and new ideas and products that we can take to the rest of the world.

We’ll pay the equivalent of the dole to every tradesperson willing to train a young apprentice.

Our young people are central to our plans, and we must make sure they’re all in work, education or training. The New Zealand of the future will require an energetic, high skills workforce.

A procurement policy is a necessity. Kiwi businesses like David and Jane Ellis’ should always be at the front of the queue when the government is considering a big purchase.

Taxpayer money should never be spent on overseas products that could be made here by Kiwi businesses for a fair price.

Our provincial centres are neglected and struggling. Labour is developing a policy package to support businesses in the regions.

We will not stand by and let the high dollar strangle New Zealand businesses. We will overhaul the Reserve Bank Act to give proper weight to important economic considerations such as jobs and the exchange rate, not solely to inflation.

The National Government is racking up debt, selling assets and ignoring the high dollar while New Zealand businesses suffer and close.

Labour will fight for the survival of New Zealand businesses.

We’re a hardworking and smart nation.

Under my leadership we will develop an efficient, ideas-based economy that turns heads internationally, brings our expatriates home and leaves a legacy of prosperity for the next generation.

Viewpoint | HR/Strategies

Organisations grow when people grow

The upside of organisational agility Iain Fraser is CEO of business consultancy Project Plus Ltd. Contact iain.fraser@projectplusgroup.com or visit www.projectplusgroup.com

Colin Clapp is the Chief Thinking Officer at Accountable Business Progress. His team helps to turn good businesses into great companies.

Visit www.accountable.co.nz

We all know business is about people, but as a business leader, are you truly investing in your team? Without a productive and motivated team, reaching your financial goals will always be an uphill battle.

This will spill over into the workplace.

Corporate wellbeing is a phrase tossed around boardrooms with regularity, but for you, in your business, how can you make the total wellness of your team a reality?

Physical wellbeing

At Accountable Business Progress, we have professionals working with businesses in the following areas – each is interlinked and to be a “well business”, we believe you need to focus on each of these areas to reach your goals.

Here is an interesting list of questions from the book First Break all the Rules by Marcus Buckingham. These 12 factors have been identified as the main reasons why employees leave jobs.

For organisations that want to get ahead, recent research suggests those organisations that have high levels of agility are twice as likely to see increased success with their new initiatives, when compared to those with low agility.

• Do individual members of my team know what is expected of them at work?

So what is agility?

• Do individual members of my team have the materials and equipment they need to do their work right?

In essence it’s about an organisation’s ability to be flexible, or as I prefer, to be nimble, in its ability to conduct its business.

• At work do individual members of my team have the opportunity to do what they do best every day?

Forward thinking organisational leaders have recognised that post global financial crisis (GFC) there is a greater need for organisations to be way more receptive to delivery of value, that’s faster and for a cost that’s less than before.

Business clarity A business that has a clear plan, shared goals and a supportive environment to achieve its goals, is a business that will succeed. It’s the old adage, “If you fail to plan, then plan to fail”.

Provide your team with a clear picture of your expectations, vision and purpose.

Involve, empower and encourage them to step up and contribute. Be an effective and supportive leader.

Personal wellbeing and empowerment Limiting beliefs and emotional left-overs from people’s pasts can repress them. Help your team break through the glass ceiling – individually and collectively as a team.

By taking an active interest in increasing their emotional wellbeing and teaching them personal effectiveness and efficiency, the increase in their contribution to your business can be astonishing.

Personal responsibility and productivity While the business as a whole needs effective leadership and goals, each individual needs to take responsibility for their role in helping to make these happen.

Individuals need goals that align with the business and this in turn brings about a desire to be productive. Individuals also need personal vision and purpose in their own life.

The skill to manage and drive change Who is your inner champion? People who are left to their own devices to facilitate and implement change are likely to fall into the hands of cynics and sceptics.

Change has to be viewed as positive and contribute to the company’s goals.

Invest into the wellbeing of your people and you will grow.

• In the last seven days, have individual members of my team received recognition or praise for good work?

• Do individual members of my team feel that I, or someone at work, seem to care about them?

• Is there anyone at work who encourages my team’s individual development?

• At work, do the opinions of individual members on my team seem to count?

• Does the mission/purpose of my company make the individual members of my team feel like their work is important?

• Do the team feel like their co-workers are committed to doing quality work?

• Do individual members of my team have a best friend at work?

• In the last six months, have I talked with individual members of my team about their progress?

• At work, have individual members of my team had opportunities to grow?

With just a few exceptions, the world’s economies are still suffering from shifting global market priorities and slow growth.

These have created complex, risk-laden business environments that have many leaders looking for inspiration in order to find ways to balance the need to innovate and change (getting ahead), against the mindset of ‘let’s just clamp down and ride this out’ (staying in business).

Leaders that recognise the need for change, identify market shifts and wish to seize new opportunities, or maintain a fast pace, are beginning to adapt their approaches on three key areas: namely, execution of plans (portfolio management style), risk management and talent (resource) management.

A new business management model Becoming a more nimble organisation requires a strong understanding of and ‘line of sight’ on the organisation’s ability to execute against and benefit from, its goals and objectives.

A leaning towards stronger, matrix type structures and the empowerment of resources, together with portfolio management techniques, is gaining momentum around the world.

Why portfolio management?

Portfolio management use, together with its cousins programme and project management, allows any organisation to blend change driven initiatives with business as usual (BAU) in a matrix manner that has high levels of resource empowerment and leadership.

This requires the organisations to take risk; risk that is calculated and considered, accepted and communicated throughout the organisation, so that prioritisation, decision making and ultimately business benefits are better understood and easier to achieve.

Portfolio management is no longer just about finance investments, albeit there is a linkage in terms of organisations seeking to balance their internal investments (capital) into change driven activity, that directly contributes towards future business successes i.e. return on investment.

In summary portfolio management is all about the way we do business, from strategy planning through to benefits realisation.

The use of modern portfolio management techniques demonstrates that project management has come a long way – not just a construction/engineering oriented discipline anymore, but a recognised technique for balancing an organisation’s capacity and capability to better achieve goals and objectives faster and for lower cost.

To get ahead, organisations must adapt and become more nimble in today’s environment.

In taking no risk, one is unlikely to thrive or even survive however, taking too much risk can have the same effect.

Bottom line is, portfolio management together with a nimble and lean philosophy that’s change driven gives better performance that then allows any organisation to get ahead.

Business benefits that are real!

We care about the benefits our clients gain from our integrated solutions. We provide advice, review, specialist resource injection and professional development. Get in touch to realise your benefits.

www.projectplusgroup.co.nz

People, Passion and Projects

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 7

Viewpoints | Legal

Viewpoints | Sales

How to manage a poor performing employee

Running a great sales meeting

John Shingleton is a partner and general manager at Malley & Co Lawyers, specialising in management, human resources and employment law. Visit www.malley.co.nz

Managing poor performance by an employee can be fraught with difficulty and there is a considerable process employers need to follow. Ideally, all new employees should be properly employed under a 90-day trial period.

However, there are circumstances when an employer discovers they have hired a poor performer, but did not have the employee on a 90-day trial period. That employer might instead have hired the employee on a probationary period. These are usually for up to three months.

It is important not to confuse a probationary period with a 90-day trial period. They are two very different contractual arrangements.

Similarly, the employer might have a specific poor performance management clause in the employment agreement.

How to manage poor performance when there is no specific contractual clause • It is essential that the employee is clear as to what is expected of them at the outset of employment. Documenting clear and precise standards or Key Performance Indicators is a must • The employer must have evidence of the poor performance. Again, documentation is critical • If the employer is concerned about the poor performance, then the employer must treat the employee in good faith • Practically, the employer should outline the concerns in writing and first invite the employee to attend a meeting, with a support person or legal representative, to discuss the concerns. All the concerns and supporting evidence must be disclosed in the letter • The first meeting is to provide the employee with an opportunity to discuss the concerns and express their point of view on the matters that have been raised.

At the end of the meeting, the employer should review what has been said and decide whether to continue managing the perceived lack of performance

• It may be that the process need not progress any further. But, if the concerns are still alive, then the employer should put the employee on a performance management plan.

A performance management plan The proposed plan should be circulated to the employee for comment first before a second meeting is held.

The plan should outline specific tangible targets and periodic reviews. At those reviews it is important to give the employee documented feedback.

Ideally, the plan would include any assistance the employer considers reasonable for the employee to reach the required targets.

The letter also needs to outline the potential outcomes of the plan. If they do not reach the agreed outcomes within the specified timeframe, a first warning and an extension to the plan will be put in place.

If extending the plan, the employer should further notify the employee that if at the end of the extended period, the employee does not reach the required standard, a disciplinary meeting may be held which depending on the gravity of the poor performance may conclude with a final written warning or dismissal.

If the employer has reached the stage where a final written warning or dismissal is fairly warranted, then the employer is entering into the area of discipline. Section 103A of the Employment Relations Act 2000 imposes on the employer a duty to act fairly and reasonably. The good faith obligations still remain.

The Employment Relations Authority makes clear that employers must give employee all fair and reasonable opportunities to reach the required standard. It is also crucial that the standard that is required is also fair and reasonable. If it is found that the standard is unachievable, then that could give rise to a legitimate personal grievance against the employer.

To avoid getting into this, properly hire new employees under a 90-day trial period. If a new employee is a poor performer, then they can be let go quickly without fuss.

Richard Gee is an author, international speaker and trainer of sales people. His websites www.geewiz.co.nz, www.geewiztv.com and www.successful.co.nz contain examples and free strategies for sales marketing and business development

Too many sales meetings actually turn the sales reps off coming because of the agenda and communication style, which gives the reverse stimulation and destroys the leadership respect.

To make sure your sales meetings focus is right, there is a simple format you can follow.

Start with a welcome and the sharing of a recent successful sale by each sales rep.

This creates participation right at the beginning, encourages preparation for future meetings, boosts egos and will enthuse the group all in the first two minutes.

Review the objectives set last week by each rep and whether they were achieved, this gives participation and also shows who on your team is organised, focussed and made sure they got their customer objective, which also builds peer group pressure.

Don’t spend time going over old sales history numbers; the team can’t change the past but can show what they learnt from the numbers last month and detail to you what they are going to do different to catch up or do better.

One set of numbers to review is the number of face to face sales calls made by each rep since the last meeting. This number shows you how many times they got in front of customers to demonstrate their skills, which is what you employed them to do. It highlights lazy sales people, who needs training or help from you and it again motivates the group.

Then introduce any product news, company news and supplier news, with resource handouts or samples, to encourage immediate sales action. If you have admin issues, invite your admin manager to address the team about the issues, rather than you.

It is your chance to lead from the front and tell them when you will be out visiting clients with the reps.

Sometimes you may have a supplier presentation; this should be no longer than 10 to 20 minutes and make sure you see what they are presenting first and how they intend to present it - it is your sales team, so don’t be made to look a fool from poor supplier selling presentations.

Then finish your meeting with each sales rep setting an objective to achieve by the next meeting. Each rep writes this objective down and hands it to you for use in the next meeting. If it is not written down it never happens!

This makes sure you have a positive start and end to the meeting and your sales reps will want to attend and participate at future sales meetings.

Sales meetings should always focus on the future and the sales people attending should walk away understanding their contribution to the direction needed and be self motivated to do so.

Upcoming Auckland seminars: May 14 Sales Basics May 15 Advanced Serious Selling June 18 Sales Basics June 19 Leadership with Results July 16 Sales Basics July 17 Sales Management Aug 13 Sales Basics Aug 14 Advanced Serious Selling Sept 17 Sales Basics Sept 18 Leadership with Results Oct 15 Sales Basics Oct 16 Customer Service Basics Nov 12 Sales Basics Nov 13 Advanced Serious Selling

Discuss the focus for the next week, month or time frame where you set the vision for what you want the sales team to concentrate on.

Richard P Gee • Seminars • Coaching

• Conference speaking • Mentor

• Sales & Marketing Consulting

Business problem solver, Decision maker, Sales Motivator, International Guru!

30 years experience, Enthusiastic, Energetic, Exciting messages that change attitudes! www.geewiz.co.nz | www.geewiztv.com | Ph. 0800GEEWIZ Or M.0274 720 410 8 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

News | Business Tips

Can virtual teams outperform traditional teams?

By Stephen Lynch

With offices in the USA, Canada, and New Zealand, our company is organised by functional teams, comprising staff members who work together on a daily basis, across multiple time zones, mostly with colleagues they have never actually met face to face. And here’s the thing, they may never get to meet face to face!

Likewise in our work with clients; we have clients we have worked with virtually for several years now that we have never met face to face!

A few years ago, these types of working relationships would have seemed strange, but now, thanks to a combination of web conferencing technology and business execution software, this style of working feels very normal to us.

Key advantages of working face to face: • Frequent informal face to face communication helps to strengthen social bonds and build trust • Can directly observe and read our colleagues’ emotional states.

Increasingly, these types of working relationships are becoming the norm for our client firms too. More and more companies are Key advantages of virtual teams: forming virtual teams with staff (and external • Assemble people with the best expertise for contractors) who reside in different locations to the job, regardless of location collaborate on projects. Some of these teams last only for the duration of the project, while • Geographically dispersed teams tend to others are more permanent in nature. have divergent viewpoints – reducing “group think,” leading to higher quality problem The notion of staff being forced to all solving and decision making work out of the same office and to work the same business hours makes less and less • The research showed that virtual teams sense – and the future implications for office can indeed outperform local teams space requirements and working environments provided they are set up and managed in are profound. the right way. You can’t just assemble a dispersed team of talented people and hope In the past, it was thought that you need to for the best. work face to face in order to create highly productive teams – but is that still true?

I came across a study of 80 firms showing that virtual teams can be highly effective, even when individual members have never met in person - and they can even outperform traditional teams.

How to create highly productive virtual teams: • Shared commitment to group goals • Awareness and appreciation of cultural differences

• Global culture – create a sense of belonging to the virtual team, not just the local office • Disciplined meeting cadence with high quality communications • People encouraged to share personal communications as well – e.g. what’s going on in their lives • Solid business execution practices to make performance visible and drive progress • Each team member held firmly accountable for results.

Business execution software helps firms like us to create and manage highly productive teams.

You don’t need to have virtual teams to experience the benefits of using such tools either. Even your face to face teams will benefit from implementing a disciplined business execution system.

Stephen Lynch is the chief operating officer of Global Operations at Results.com. Information kindly provided by www.results.com

Stop Time Theft & Over-Payment Improve Workforce Productivity Minimise Payroll Admin Reduce Human Error

Phone: 64 9 889 0055 Fax: 64 9 479 9802 PO Box 300 866, Albany 0752, Auckland www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 9

RR Viewpoints | Working Life

News | Events Diary

Personal lives of staff - how involved should you get?

Karen Degen is the owner of Set Free with EFT, a company that changes mindsets to create business success. Email karen@setfree.co.nz or visit www.setfree.co.nz

The concept that employees should leave their personal lives at the door is becoming obsolete.

Many companies not only want to know about the personal lives of their staff, but are getting actively involved in helping them.

Although a company’s greatest asset is its staff, generally managers have only wanted to know the ‘at work’ part of that asset, keeping a comfortable arm’s length from involvement in their personal lives.

This attitude is finally changing with managers taking a holistic approach. The word ‘holistic’ means to emphasise the importance of the whole person and the interdependence of all the different parts. It is the understanding that all aspects of people’s needs, including the psychological, physical, social and spiritual, need to be taken into account and seen as a whole.

The ideal employee is someone who has grown to and is operating at their fullest potential. According to Abraham Maslow, the full realisation of one’s potential is only realised when all other needs are fulfilled.

this would impact on their staff’s ability to be focused and productive, smart companies stepped in to assist with meeting that need. One large multinational company for example offered five additional days paid leave so their staff could sort out any earthquake related issues.

They also offered to quickly send constructional engineers to evaluate the homes of their staff members. This went a long way towards creating peace of mind, or where there was serious damage, certainty and an ability to make decisions straight away.

Most people’s progress up the hierarchy of needs is hampered at the third and fourth levels. These levels are primarily emotional, including self esteem and confidence. Any assistance given to move employees through these levels will be well rewarded. There is a saying ‘energy flows where attention goes’. Unfortunately many people’s attention is focused on worry, fear or self doubt.

One way that managers can take the more holistic approach is to have regular holistic (whole person) meetings with each employee, using that time to find out what is happening in their lives, but more importantly how they feel about those situations.

His hierarchy of needs model proposed that one must satisfy lower level basic needs before progressing on to meet higher level In finding out how they feel about growth needs. Once these needs have been themselves and their lives, any barriers reasonably satisfied, one may be able to reach to achieving their fullest potential can be the highest level called self-actualisation. identified and assistance provided.

Maslow described self-actualised people as For many managers this is not the type of those who were fulfilled and doing all they discussion they feel comfortable having. were capable of. Every person is capable of These discussions also require a particular moving toward a level of self-actualisation, skill set many managers may not possess. It but unfortunately progress is often disrupted may be more prudent to provide access to by failure to meet lower level needs. It is at an expert in this field who can hold these these lower levels that astute managers are holistic meetings and provide any assistance offering assistance. needed to move through the various Companies who actively assist their personal challenges. employees up the hierarchy of needs are One thing managers can do to create a more likely to have self-actualised people on sense of safety and trust around this is to set their team - those who can perform at the an example. For instance, don’t hide your highest possible level. own personal or family issues from your Most people already have their basic employees. Allow them to see the ‘whole’ needs met however, after the Christchurch side of you, challenges and all. Those who earthquakes this was no longer the case. wall off their own personal life will find their Recognising that the worry associated with employees putting up similar walls.

EVENTS DIARY

TUESDAY, May 14

Integrated Marketing

Having an integrated marketing plan is essential to drive sales and run an effective MONDAY, APRIL 29 – MAY 17 business. This workshop will make sure OXY Break you create marketing plans that deliver an effective and integrated approach to your If you work in an office environment you probably have some of these symptoms: tired, business’ marketing. Using real business scenarios across a wide variety of sectors and run down, sore back, tight shoulders, neck company sizes, you will learn how to develop cramps? You need an OXY Break! and deliver an integrated marketing plan that Right now, you are probably only using 20 is aligned to your business goals and includes percent of your lung capacity when you the most current tactical options. breathe. Ten percent of the energy you use To register, go to: every day comes from food. The other 90 percent comes from oxygen. By learning some www.aucklandchamber.co.nz simple breathing exercises, you can increase your physical wellbeing five fold.

Visit: www.vision4lifepro.com

WEDNESDAY, May 1 – 2 An Evening with Jack Dee

After a six year absence from stand up comedy, Jack Dee is back, agonising over the slightest of annoyances and misdemeanours.

Why is he touring again? “I want to spend less time with my family” he says. Jack Dee is an actor, comedian and writer who has won worldwide acclaim for his stand up comedy routines. Having forged a highly successful comedic reputation during the 1990s based on the sardonic, deadpan style of his stand up routine, Jack Dee shot to even greater fame in 2001 after he won the very first series of Celebrity Big Brother.

For tickets, go to: www.eventfinder.co.nz

THURSDAY, MAY 9 - 10 Communication Strategies

Identify common communication problems and learn how to deal with them. Develop skills to ask questions that give you the information you need. Learn what your non-verbal messages are telling others.

Develop skills in listening actively and empathetically to others. Enhance your ability to handle difficult situations Deal with situations assertively.

For more information and to visit: www.minervalearning.co.nz

FRIDAY, May 10

Employment Law for Small Business Employment contracts can seem fraught with risks to your business. Explore employment law in detail and equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to minimise that risk by attending this Employment Law for Small Business course. You’ll examine recruitment, employment agreements, current legislation, bargaining, restructuring and resolution of disputes in a practical and interactive one day format.

For more information go to: www.businessatmanukau.co.nz

TUESDAY, MAY 14 Business Plan

If you’re like most people, chances are you’ve never put your thoughts down on paper or in fact structured your business around a set plan. It is something you can share with your team so you’re all working with the same aim. After working through the workshop you will have the knowledge and tools necessary to assist you with the completion of a basic business plan. The plan itself, once complete, will provide a sound basis for management and will enable you to share and celebrate your successes.

To register, go to: www.bizhub.anz.co.nz

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15 - 19 Writers and Readers festival

Taking place at Aotea Centre in Auckland, this event will see fiction, poetry, politics, food and wine, sport, conflict, science, music, travel, history, gardening, architecture and health featured in the programme. There will also be a free book valuing event, live playwriting, two days of sessions at the Auckland Art Gallery, a cricket lunch with Australian cricket writer Gideon Haigh and three free readings sessions each day bringing together New Zealand and international writers around themes.

For more information visit: www.writersfestival.co.nz

Be in to win Win an hour with James McNeish at the Auckland Writers and Readers Festival When: Saturday, May 18, from 4-5pm Where: Lower NZI Room, Aotea Centre James McNeish’s memoir Touchstones paints a self portrait of one of New Zealand’s most accomplished writers abroad and at home. James will expand on his witty and poignant tale in conversation with Finlay Macdonald.

Simply email competitions@academy. net.nz and mention James McNeish in the subject line and go in the draw to win.

(CMC) Children Massaging Children as HAUORA lesson at schools NZ Curriculum matching, award-winning & scientifically proven programme for education.

Students become calmer, happier and friendlier towards each other. CMC programme teaches Empathy and Peace in the purest form.

www.childconnection.org.nz 10 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

- CMC, Created by Eva Scherer

News | Technology

Smart storage

By Melinda Collins

It’s one of those things with a catch phrase that’s really caught on – cloud computing. But what does cloud computing really mean and how can it help you? Cloud computing, quite simply, is internet based computing storage.

Where we previously would have saved data on our own computers, the idea of cloud computing is that same data is stored off-site – so if your machine or network goes up in smoke, your data doesn’t go with it.

It is a solution which is growing in popularity, particularly within the SME sector.

So why are more SMEs moving to the cloud? Cloud computing increases efficiency, helps improve cash flow and offers many more benefits.

So what’s stopping the rest of us?

“Deciding whether to move to the cloud is a business decision that depends on a variety of factors,” Privacy Commissioner Marie Shroff says.

Shroff has just released guidance material for SMEs, to help them protect personal information when using cloud computing.

“Businesses don’t necessarily have time to put together a checklist for themselves. So we’ve developed some guidance, including a list that sets out the most important questions for SMEs to think about and ask prospective cloud providers about.”

The plan is to keep the guide up to date so it retains its usability. “We started by talking to some New Zealand businesses and government agencies to see how they were using the cloud and work out where the information gaps might be.

“We’ve also consulted those businesses and agencies in developing the guidance.

We welcome feedback to help us ensure that the guidance remains up to date

and useable throughout the business and government community,” she says.

“Businesses today are increasingly turning to cloud computing, but many are flying blind with the range of options, providers and risks.

Shifting to the cloud can often make really good sense. But responsible businesses will always want to be sure that their client and staff information will be safe. We saw a gap in the guidance that was available.”

Some questions to ask providers are: • What information will you be sending to the cloud? Some types of information are more sensitive or risky than other types of information • How will you keep the information secure, both while it’s crossing the internet and when it’s stored with your cloud provider?

• Will your cloud provider tell you if there’s a security breach, or if the information is accessed by anyone other than you?

• Where will the information be stored? Some countries may not protect the information as strongly as you would like • Can you get the information back – quickly – if you want it?

• Who else might see the information and why?

• Will the cloud provider delete the information if you decide to move service, or if you don’t need it any more?

The cloud guidance is available free from the Privacy Commissioner’s website www.privacy.org.nz/using-the-cloud/

Keeping it fresh on your website An internet software company is promising to make it easier to get fresh content and harness social media to add significant value to a company’s website.

Bingham says Shuttlerock was developed to tackle a number of current problems many

“Companies are challenged to get best use out of social media sites. Search engine optimisation can be complicated and is often expensive. Some content management systems can also be complicated and often only one person looks after it,” Hendriksen says.

“From our own experiences we know more and more customers are demanding up to date and interactive content from their web experience. The days of the static website content have come to an end.”

Hendriksen stresses it’s the first time that a company has created a means to reach a customer’s friends and receive recognition from search engines for content that is then created on their website.

“The Shuttlerock system creates lots of good relevant content meaning potential customers stay on a site longer, and that means they are more likely to take action.”

Shuttlerock also has the ability to gather email addresses of both customers and their friends – an extremely relevant group of potential customers.

Shuttlerock’s competition platform also entices customers to share their experience of a product or service to their friends online and Shuttlerock’s photo content boards are integrated with social

Content can be generated from a range of sources, and is not just limited to staff.

It’s then easily uploaded with images automatically sized, very much like social media site Facebook, reducing the need for complex content management systems.

media sites like Facebook to help drive traffic to a company’s website.

To find more information visit www.shuttlerock.com

Paul Bingham and Jonny Hendriksen are committed to going global with software company Shuttlerock, promising to make it easier to get fresh content and harness social media to add significant value to companies’ websites.

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Shuttlerock, being launched by New Zealanders Jonny Hendriksen and Paul Bingham, generates fresh content recognised by search engines. Social media has never been easier or more affordable, Bingham says. “Currently there is just not enough time to keep adding fresh content to a company website. There are also too many social channels to chase effectively and more are coming.”

companies experience with their online marketing efforts, problems both he and Hendriksen had encountered running their own businesses.

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 11

News | Trends

Talking the talk

By Melinda Collins

YouTube has come to define the era of online video; but while ‘Charlie bites his brother’s finger’, Justin Beiber wants to be your boyfriend and Lady Gaga has her cake and rolls around in it too, the web portal has in recent years become a showroom for the intellectual style of the digital age.

With names like ‘Fifty shades of gay’, ‘Could tissue engineering mean personalised medicine?’ and ‘The dance of the dung beetle’, the latest trend in online clips seem to go against all the standard rules for internet infamy. It is elite idea sharing gone mainstream.

TED Talks are a series of internet video lectures which have taken the world by storm, with more than one billion views worldwide. An acronym for technology, entertainment and design, TED Talks have developed from the conference of the same name.

The trend began as a simple attempt to share what happens at TED with the world.

Under the moniker “ideas worth spreading,” talks were released online, giving everyone on-demand access to the world’s most inspiring voices.

So we’ve made it even simpler for you to hear these voices by hunting out the top 10 TED Talks for business. Just tap them into YouTube and you have a front seat pass.

Rory Sutherland: Life lessons from an ad man Entrepreneurs can learn a lot by studying behavioural economics. Rory Sutherland, vice chairman of Ogilvy & Mather states that a change in perceived value can be just as satisfying as what we consider “real” value; a humorous and deeply insightful presentation that every entrepreneur, or at least every marketer, should watch.

Simon Sinek: How great leaders inspire action People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it. An author, motivational speaker, and strategic communications professor at Columbia University, Sinek has a simple but powerful model for inspirational leadership that starts with his famous “golden circle of motivation” and the question “Why?” Seth Godin: How to get your ideas to spread Everyone has heard the expression “The best thing since sliced bread” but did you know that for 15 years after sliced bread was invented it wasn’t popular? The success of sliced bread, like the success of anything, 12 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

was less about the product and more about whether or not you could get your idea to spread or not.

Marketing guru and author Godin spells out why, when it comes to getting our attention, bad or bizarre ideas are more successful than boring ones.

Cameron Herold: Let’s raise kids to be entrepreneurs Herold thinks weekly allowances teach kids the wrong habits – teaching kids to expect a regular paycheque, something to which entrepreneurs usually don’t get. Herold taught his two kids to walk around the yard looking for stuff that needs to get done, then they negotiate a price. He makes the case for a new type of parenting and education that helps would-be entrepreneurs flourish.

Jason Fried: Why work doesn’t happen at work The office isn’t a good place to work, meetings are toxic and ASAP is poison.

In Jason Fried’s TED Talk, he lays out the problems with “work” and offers three suggestions to fix a broken office.

Richard St. John: 8 secrets of success Why do people succeed? Is it because they are smart? Or are they just lucky? The answer is neither. Success analyst, speaker and author St. John asked more than 500 extraordinarily successful people what helped them succeed, analysed their answers and discovered eight traits successful people have in common.

Nigel Marsh: How to make work-life balance work Marsh, author of Overworked and Underlaid, speaks about the dangers of putting our lives in the hands of “abattoirs of the human soul” aka commercial corporations and how to enforce the boundaries we want in our life.

Steve Jobs: How to live before you die No list of inspiring talks would be complete without Steve Jobs’ 2005 commencement address at Stanford University. While not officially a TED Talk, the deeply touching and inspirational speech is included in TED’s “Best of the Web” list and is a must-watch even if you’ve already seen it before.

Shawn Achor: The happy secret to better work Psychologist Shawn Achor doubles as a comedian in this talk, during which he says the lens through which your brain views the world shapes your reality. “And if we can change the lens not only can we change your happiness, but we can change every single educational and business outcome at the same time,” he says in this highly entertaining video.

Julie Burstein: Four lessons in creativity In this inspiring talk, radio host and book author Julie Burstein gives voice to several interviews with remarkably talented people who found that creativity grows when you pay attention to the world around you, learn from challenges, push against the limits of what you can do as well as the hardest thing of all--embrace loss.

News | Trends

Why sales training

works

By Kevin Vincent

One of the biggest challenges businesses face today is positioning their products and services for maximum marketability. In most industries, all the players have access to basically the same technology and resources thus, the products they turn out are very similar in terms of features, benefits and pricing.

In such a climate, how do you get an edge?

Customer service

The best way to get ahead and stay “one up” on the competition is to become proficient at selling value instead of price. Any business that is willing to train its staff to the highest possible level will have the best chance of producing high income. Training is an important investment in your business.

In order for organisations to excel, they must differentiate themselves and their employees in significant ways that add value to the customer experience. They must provide service that is unique, faster, more reliable, more responsive and more caring than ever before.

The need for training and development is ongoing for any effective sales team.

The more frequent the training the more likely the team will deliver consistently improved results. Companies that choose not to provide training are hurting themselves, as they are not improving and investing in their people – the sales teams; the providers of their revenue.

Increased customer service can be a surprising by-product of teaching your staff better sales skills.

Any improvements, big or small in sales skills, such as prospecting, making better presentations, overcoming objections, value added negotiations, or closing can lead to significant increases in sales results.

I am often surprised by some business owners who seem to take a “hands off” approach to customer service in their business; they hire what they think are good people and just assume that they’ll do the right things – often without even bothering to do any customer service training.

There are many well researched and documented reasons that cover the real and tangible benefits of sales and service training and here are a selection of the more widely known.

Sales and profitability Well trained sales teams will most definitely deliver increased sales results, leading to greater profits. The more understanding the sales team has of the sales process, the easier it will be to convert customer enquiries into sales.

I have heard that it is not uncommon for up to 80 percent of the business to be generated by just 20 percent of the salespeople. If this is the case then it’s no wonder that most sales organisations may struggle.

If non-performers are being constantly replaced, then that staff turnover will be an enormous drain on budgets. Good customer relations will be difficult to secure, as you will be always introducing new sales people and any chance of retaining knowledge of your customers will remain elusive.

Many managers are surprised at the way customers respond to the increased interpersonal communication skills staff have when they learn better sales skills.

Happy customers are the best promoters of your business.

When you train your customer service teams you will show them how to effectively cultivate improved customer relations instead of risking them.

Connection between customer service and sales teams There is no doubt that sales and service are inextricably linked. Customer service is most often provided by telephone operators and sales generally by face to face contact.

Both roles require good understanding of the customer and the customer’s needs. Both roles require similar skill sets in so far as finding the right solution for the customer.

When the two roles are linked in a closer way, you will find the business benefits from happier customers and increased sales, as the teams work more cohesively as a part of the whole marketing environment.

Good customer service must apply equally to both internal and external customers with

Can you sell?

If so, we want you !

the resultant outcome being an improved internal culture, leading to an improved external culture, benefiting clients and ultimately the company performance.

Better understanding of what makes a customer buy Without understanding why people buy the product, it is almost impossible for the salesperson to close the deal.

Training will encourage your staff to consider the underlying reasons people make in any purchase.

The purchasing process for a customer generally follows a process of being receptive to buying, drawing some focus on specific needs, wants or desires, gaining knowledge of what is available to suit those requirements, evaluating the options and making a decision.

The sales process mirrors this by providing the information, product or service that meets those requirements. By being able to provide the solutions, sales teams create an environment where customers feel comfortable and confident in buying.

Sales and customer service teams must have comprehensive knowledge of the company capability and the benefits of the products and service you offer. In a former role I always ensured customer service teams had a product or two at their desks to study and learn about.

Up-selling to other products Another benefit of increasing the sales skills is that staff are far more likely to introduce the customer to other products in your portfolio. For example we think of up-selling as the typical “Do you want fries with that?”

Yes the age old up-sell is alive and well and it is very important.

A company can add extra line items to a customer enquiry by knowing what is available and appropriate. It is a great key performance indicator (KPI) to capture and measure up-selling and a company will be pleasantly surprised just how much that can contribute to results. One never buys a suit without a new shirt and tie – do they?

Great sales people will focus on all products and opportunities that benefit the customers and give better customer service.

Sales training simply works and will benefit a company’s sales force on so many different levels.

Sales is not just about getting clients and taking orders, there are call planning, relationship building, adding value, follow up skills, time management, prospecting skills and customer service skills involved as well.

Kevin Vincent is a director of business improvement consultants Vincent and Nugent Limited - www.vincentnugent.co.nz

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www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 13

News | Q&A

Inside innovation Not only is Ian Taylor the founder of one of New Zealand’s most innovative multimedia companies, but he just happened to revolutionise the way the world watches sport with the development of real time 3D graphics for the America’s Cup. But that’s not the only reason we wanted to talk innovation with him.

He shot to fame in the computing world when ARL provided revolutionary real time 3D sports graphics at the 1992 America’s Cup. The company has gone on to expand this technology into a range of global sports, including golf, cricket, tennis and Formula One.

Knowledge has always been at the core of successful economies. It was knowledge that created the first refrigerated shipping. We are just dealing with a new level of knowledge and a new way of delivering it. I have every confidence that if we don’t take full advantage of that, our kids will.

How big an issue is the lack of start-up funding in terms of turning bright ideas into a business reality in New Zealand?

That’s not really something I can comment on. I have always worried about taking other people’s money to chase my personal dreams.

Perhaps one day I will have an idea that is strong enough to warrant that investment from strangers.

Martin Johnson, the former England rugby captain, receives instruction from Paul McGinley and Scott Drummond during a session on the Taylormade MATTsystem during a golf lesson

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Martin Johnson, the former England rugby captain, looks at his swing on a monitor during a session on the Taylormade MATTsystem during a golf lesson

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Besides sports, the company has contributed computer animation to television shows both You’ve taken some big risks in business, within New Zealand and overseas including: Kiwi documentary series Human Potential, the how important is risk taking to success?

BBC’s Inventions That Changed the World, and That’s interesting because I don’t ever think National Geographic’s Mega Disasters. in terms of risk. I have never done a risk assessment on anything I have done. Equally, A lot of Kiwis think we are tucked away in I have never done anything that I didn’t feel the corner of the South Pacific, so we can’t excited and passionate about. Even when compete on an international stage, what things have turned bad, like our excursion into do you say to this?

Indian cricket, I had no regrets. We achieved everything we set out to achieve. We just We should look on it as a strength. Sir Ernest happened to get shafted on the way.

Rutherford is quoted as saying “We didn’t have the money – so we had to think.” That could just as easily be “We are tucked away in How much of an issue is tall poppy syndrome in this country? the corner of the South Pacific – so we have to think.” We can, and do, provide a I think it is overrated. Personally I find Kiwis special brand of thinking that is valued are genuinely proud of what we have done as around the world. a little company and it gives me great comfort to know that they care.

Why is technological innovation so important?

Your animation has been a huge hit in the I like the description of innovation as sporting world - where else do you see “doing something better today than we did its potential? it yesterday.” In that context it applies to We do sport because we love it. But we also everything we do – not just technology. We build air traffic control simulators, do city are wrong to think that technology is the only visualisation and planning, we work for one place that innovation takes place. of the largest mining companies in the world visualising natural catastrophe data, we built You’ve said in New Zealand people talk the the training simulator for one of the world’s talk about ingenuity and innovation, but leading F1 Race teams. There are lots of other nobody walks the walk, tell us about that? things we do – but again, the motivation is doing things we like.

The government has recently announced changes to its procurement process. That’s the talk. We will know that they are walking What do you see in the future for digital the walk when more small, innovative New technology?

Zealand companies start consistently winning It’s unlimited. I was brought up in a house government contracts. without electricity. I thought turning the light on with a flick of a switch was amazing. I So the notion of us becoming a knowledge have given up being surprised by the changes economy is really just a pipe dream? technology has brought to our lives. The big challenge is making sure that technology No, but I think we need to understand that the knowledge economy isn’t new. serves us, not the other way around.

14 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

In 1992, in a world first, America’s Cup boats were tracked in real time off the coast of San Diego using Taylor’s software and it has been an essential component of every America’s Cup since. In 2000 he developed another world first – real 3D graphics of a sporting event, delivered to the world online. Photo by Sergio Dionisio

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After 20 years with TVNZ, Ian went on to establish three successful technology businesses in Dunedin; multimedia company Taylormade Media, computer animation company Animation Research Ltd (ARL), and specialist online booking company BookIt.

Ian Taylor

News | Cover Story

Chips off the old block

By Melinda Collins

Ben and Libby Crawford get recognised all the time; there’s those awkward moments when someone actually thinks they know them, or the times someone says hello and they have just seconds to work out if they actually know them.

16 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

News | Cover Story

“

We’re a creative advertising agency and we create and evolve brands to communicate and engage with the customer no matter where that may be - Ben Crawford

”

However, it was the family ties which the pair believes secured them the winning spot on The Block New Zealand. “Being brother and sister, we didn’t have to deal with relationship crap,” Ben laughs.

“We went into this almost like a business transaction; we went in there with a plan and always looking to the end.”

“It’s the industry we’re in,” Libby explains.

“We’re used to setting objectives and working backwards to achieve them.”

That industry is advertising and unlike the clash of classic siblings, the pair’s personalities and skills have always melded together in a complementary manner.

Ben gained a first class honours degree in marketing at Otago University, before forging a career focused on the strategy, planning and development aspects of advertising. Libby also studied at Otago, completing a double degree in marketing and design, and in turn has focused more on the creative side of the industry, but with a marketing slant.

She has worked as a graphic designer within creative agencies for the last eight years, the most recent five as a senior designer in a Christchurch agency, while Ben most recently spent seven years working for Tourism New Zealand in various marketing management roles, both in New Zealand and offshore.

The Block offered much more than the opportunity to chase their dreams. It allowed them to build their dreams, from the ground up.

“We’ve talked about having our own advertising agency for two or three years and sat down a couple of Christmases ago to map out what we wanted to do,” Ben says. “Then The Block came around and we quickly realised there’d be no better opportunity to launch our business.”

“It’s what we’ve always wanted to do.”

Known simply as Libby & Ben, the company is a creative agency that “build brands through bloody good ideas, topnotch creative and clever marketing communications,” according to the website.

“We’re a creative advertising agency and we create and evolve brands to communicate and engage with the customer no matter where that may be,” Ben says.

This involves everything from strategy development, through to the brand creation and specific campaign development. “We do a lot of digital as part of that,” Ben says.

“It’s an area we’re extremely experienced in and passionate about. Our ideas and work involves everything from website design and build through to social integration and mobile initiatives,” he says.

“A lot of businesses know they should be in the digital and social environments, but often don’t really understand it or how to do it in a relevant way,” Libby finishes in a way I suspect is common for the pair who think so succinctly.

“It’s funny, a lot of people hear we are in business and think we’re doing up houses,” Libby says. “But it couldn’t be further from the truth!”

Born and bred in Southland and boarding in Christchurch for high school, the siblings operate the business from Ben’s Auckland base and Libby’s Canterbury home, enabling a nationwide presence.

It’s a modern way of working, Ben says.

“That mobile philosophy carries out through everything we do.”

“Because we’re mobile and can work remotely,” Libby says, “the ideas we’re getting to our clients also reflect that as well.”

The pair admit they couldn’t have had it easier when they decided to take the plunge and set out on their own, given the significant prize money they won and the national recognition that came with it.

“We had a massive advantage in the fact that we were on nationwide television and everybody now knows what we do, which blew through so many barriers people have around creating awareness of their new business,” Ben says.

“Plus we won a good chunk of money that we’ve put into starting the business and basically treated as our first year and a bit of fall-back salary. It gave us 12 months at least to give it a crack and the confidence to commit fully to the business.”

But they are confident they would have realised their dreams regardless. “I always say give it a crack, you never know unless you try and I’ve got a very strong belief in that,” Ben says.

“Obviously you shouldn’t be reckless and need to be sure what you’re planning on

doing is based on a sound rationale or proposition, but provided it stacks up, go out and give it a go. It’s going to be scary as hell.”

“Seek sound advice as well,” Libby adds, ever the pragmatist. “Get sound advice from people within the relevant industries, business mentors or people whose jobs are to go over ideas.

“There’s the balancing point between Ben and I; he’s all like ‘let’s do it’ and I’m all ‘hang on, let’s think about this’,” she laughs.

“Give it a shot, go for it, do it!” Ben states.

“Provided it’s a strong idea,” Libby finishes.

Don’t ever be afraid to say yes, Ben says.

“Imagine if we hadn’t said yes to this? It’s allowed us to do so many things we’ve always wanted to do.”

“Put yourself out there,” Libby says. “We pushed ourselves to the absolute breaking point of physical and mental ability and we kind of thrived under the pressure of it all.

“Now when I’m finding something tough in my every day world, I stop myself and think ‘hang on this is nothing compared to how far I managed to push myself on The Block’.

It’s a new point of reference for me. You realise how much you can actually achieve in a short amount of time and how hard you can push yourself.”

“If people said yes more often the world would be a better place,” Ben adds.

“Oh, look out!” Libby laughs. “I’m so inspired by you today!

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 17

News | Mentoring

Cool advice

the individual programmes and find out which one is the best fit. The next step is to complete an application form. For some of our programmes we invite business to a screening session for others we accept them directly based on the application form.

By Karen Pasco

Who do you partner with to achieve this?

The Icehouse touts itself as providing entrepreneurs and business owners with the knowledge, tools and contacts to grow whether they be start-up or established businesses. The Icehouse start-up and Ice Angels director Ken Erskine shares the purpose of the organisation, the motivation behind it and the success stories of SMEs who sought their assistance.

We have some amazing partners who support us in helping develop Kiwi businesses to improve the economy. We have a large group of mentors and coaches who work directly with our customers and deliver our programmes. We work very closely with our foundation partner The University of Auckland as well as government institutions like ATEED and NZTE. We have close partnerships with a number of NZ corporates including BNZ, HP, Gen-i, Telecom, Microsoft, JBWere, KPMG and AJ Park.

“

- Director, Ken Erskine

What is The Icehouse?

We are a hub for Kiwis in business. We support the entrepreneurs and business people who are likely to shape the future of New Zealand’s economy. We offer a range of business growth programmes for SMEs, a business incubator for start-ups, and access to New Zealand’s largest group of angel investors, the Ice Angels.

One of our biggest strengths is our network – if you need to get connected, we can find the right person locally or internationally with only a few conversations.

We’re taking three Kiwi companies to Silicon Valley to the USA Angel Capital Association’s International Angel Investment Showcase in April. This will be huge for these guys, not only do they get to present their ideas to a range of Angel backers, we’re going to work with them to organise one on one meetings and facilitate quality introductions. That’s just an example of how we leverage our network to help Kiwi businesses.

When did it start up, why did it start and who was it started by?

The Icehouse was founded in 2001 in recognition of the importance of SMEs to the New Zealand economy. The founders wanted to create a place to assist entrepreneurial companies to be successful, both domestically and overseas, with the goal of helping New Zealand’s economy grow.

The Icehouse was founded by David Irving, Bridget Liddell, Barry Spicer and Geoff Whitcher with the financial support and expertise of BNZ, HP, Microsoft, Telecom, Boston Consulting Group, Chapman Tripp, Carter Holt Harvey and Deloitte.

18 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

We offer them mentoring by experienced business people plus learning and development courses around strategy, leadership, market validation, business planning, financials, change management and technology adoption.

”

Who uses your services?

A wide range of NZ businesses and entrepreneurs come to The Icehouse. We work with early stage start-ups, developing new business ideas and later stage start-ups, looking at the next stages of growth and funding. For businesses that have been going for a while, we offer a range of development programmes for owners and senior leaders who want to grow their business and take it to the next level.

The people we work with say the real difference in our programmes is they’re tangible, actionable and link directly to results. It’s more like practical learning rather than ‘book’ learning and we work alongside them to get from A to B. The unique offering in many of our business programmes is the opportunity to be in the room learning with other owners who share the same challenges. The reality is we’re entrepreneurs working with entrepreneurs – our real focus is on delivering measurable programmes that benefit businesses. We’re all about growth, and that could be in people, capabilities or profit.

Who has been one of your top success stories?

How do businesses benefit from being involved with you?

We offer them mentoring by experienced business people plus learning and development courses around strategy, leadership, market validation, business planning, financials, change management and technology adoption.

Start-ups and SMEs also get access to our huge network of entrepreneurs, investors, advisors, corporates and government institutions locally and internationally. These connections offer advice and support and open doors for our companies.

What is the selection criteria when choosing startups and SMEs you will work with?

We are working with all SMEs and start-ups that want to take their business to the next level and that have the right mindset. By right mindset we mean they have to be coachable and open to advice.

When we work with start-ups, especially very early stage ones, we look at the idea and the size of the opportunity as well as the background and capability of the founder(s).

The great thing about The Icehouse is we are running a number of different programmes and have a large group of mentors and advisors. This enables us to match businesses with the right programme or mentor to make sure they get the most out of their time with us.

What do they have to do to join one of the programmes?

Visit our website (www.theicehouse.co.nz) and get in touch with us to learn more about

We had a number of great successes in the last 12 years. Looking at the start-up side some that stand out are eBUS, provider of expert software as a service for the TV broadcasting industry, who just recently got bought by UK firm IMD. Also wireless inductive technology provider PowerByProxi who is considered a world leader in its industry and has worked with around 30 large companies around the world in diverse areas including aerospace, security systems, sensor networks and hydraulic control. And BigLittleBang, a 3D virtual world for kids with over 125,000 users, and this number is growing 35 percent month on month.

Some of the well known SMEs we have worked with include ProLife Foods, a FMCG focused supplier of food products to NZ and Australia, Sutton Group, added value dairy manufacturer of infant formulas, JUCY rentals, Furnware, manufacturer of children’s school furniture, Farro Fresh and Future Products Group, a leader in FMCG retail fit-outs and refrigerated cabinetry.

Why do we need your organisation in this country?

Start-ups and SMEs are the backbone of the New Zealand economy. We have a lot of great SMEs and entrepreneurs in New Zealand and every day more people have great business ideas.

Kiwis are known for being innovative and NZ is considered one of the best places in the world to start a business. However, we often see Kiwis struggling to grow their businesses and turn them into successful companies with strong domestic and/or international markets that can help our economy long-term. We are helping entrepreneurs overcome these challenges and through that are helping the NZ economy.

RR

News | Life online

Digital networking

By Melinda Collins

We are constantly being bombarded with information on how to use social media for the benefit of our business. But according to a recent MYOB Business Monitor’s survey of more than 1,000 small to medium enterprises, only a fifth of those firms now use social media – almost a quarter less than in August 2011.

Perhaps we can pass this off as one of those times where less really is more. Here we have broken social media down to its key elements, to make it easier to get your head around and make a tactical choice as to which will work best for you.

Blogging The typical definition of a blog, according to a Pyra Labs Blogger is, “a web page made up of usually short, frequently updated posts that are arranged chronologically – like a ‘what’s new’ page or a journal”.

Business blogs offer an excellent corporate tool for communicating with customers to share your knowledge and expertise, all the while promoting your brand. So what does blogging offer small businesses?

Freedom is yours. With business blogging, you simply write your thoughts, link to resources and publish. There are even some great blog software companies out there offering tools and set up guides to get you started (www. websitesetupguide.com).

Quite simply, blogging is a web presence without the price tag. So when you haven’t the time to learn web html or the money to hire a developer, blogging enables you to get your name out there – really a great option for the SME owner.

Most importantly, you need to have goals for what you want your blog to accomplish - whether that is to build a brand, generate leads, generate direct sales, or generate advertising revenue. These goals will determine your content. Once you’re in action, make sure monitor your traffic and analyse your success so you can tailor your blogging accordingly.

Social networking We’ve all heard about social networking and how we should use sites such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, but how do we integrate these tools into real life marketing?

Social media enables a business to connect with customers on a very personal scale.

Businesses on social networks build pages where people can become their fans or friends. You have instant access to many of 20 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

your existing and potential customers at any given point and it couldn’t be easier to get hold of them than the click of a button.

Before you jump on the networking bandwagon, it’s important to consider what each site offers and how you can benefit from their resources. Without this plan your only success may prove to be in wasting time.

Ask yourself what you business needs are. Social networking is about more than messaging former high school buddies, so set about a plan for what you want out of your networking – do you need more staff, do you want to market new products, build a brand or try out a new idea on the market?

Next you need to know who your target market is because, with more than 300 million users on Facebook alone, you need to narrow your focus.

Answering some of these questions will suggest to you which sites you should start with and the sort of content you should be considering. Remember a poorly managed page is likely more harmful than none at all, so make sure you have the time to maintain the site or find someone who can.

Multimedia Multimedia video sharing over the web is another great resource for SMEs to make their mark.

Multimedia is essentially broadcasting a video or media file online, including video podcasts, vblogs, videocasting or webshows. Done correctly, it is a way for your customers to get behind the scenes of your business.

There are four essential ingredients to successful multimedia marketing; equipment, a theme, an online portal and marketing.

In terms of equipment, electronic gear is getting cheaper and cheaper, meaning many SMEs can gain access either short or long term, to the equipment required. If you have a higher budget however, you can hire a professional and many companies offer packages suitable for SMEs, such as www.ruffells.co.nz.

You could have the best equipment and coolest video, but it wouldn’t matter unless you are doing something interesting.

“

Before you jump on the networking bandwagon, it’s important to consider what each site offers and how you can benefit from their resources. Without this plan your only success may prove to be in time wasting.

”

And whatever you do, don’t sit in an office chair preaching about your business. Sell your business. Talk to customers, film the store, take viewers behind the scenes of how you make products – anything cool and unique will work a treat.

Once you’ve got the video sorted, upload it for free on YouTube where it can be viewed by anyone. Webcasts can be uploaded to free or paid hosting sites such as iTunes.

However, regular surveillance of such sites allows you to interact directly with customers, while you manage your company’s reputation.

In fact, by responding to criticism and posting answers to online queries in your industry can bring in new and repeat customers, if done properly. Even if your company is focused on quality customer service, sooner or later you are going to receive a less than favourable review on the web. It’s what you do next which is critical to your bottom line.

Chances are the negative reviewer isn’t rushing back to your business, so the purpose of a response is to mitigate the negative impact of potential new customers who are scoping you out online.

Firstly you need to be regularly keeping an eye out on what’s being said, so your response is timely. Some sites, such as TripAdvisor, provide a response gateway to enable you to respond. So once you have figured out if you can respond, you need to decide if you should respond.

Some comments are just too abstract to attempt a response, and attempting to would be counterproductive. When you find a complaint which is suitable for a response, check your ego at the door.

The time honoured approach of “feel, felt, found” is perfect for this.

Feel We understand how you feel about this; product / service / treatment / quality / price.

Felt Online review sites Surprisingly, using customer forums and review sites such as www.mytradesman.co.nz can generate sales and few of us are taking advantage of this great opportunity.

To many, the internet can seem like a vast forum where anyone can say anything and you can’t get your two cents in. Many businesses get caught up in the social media such as Twitter and Facebook, while neglecting review and answer sites.

If any other customers have felt this way, please contact us directly and immediately.

Found We looked into your complaint and here is what we found out about our business.

This approach has a strong psychological impact on potential clients and a great way to end is with “Thanks for bringing this to our attention; this is how we fixed it so that it never happens again.”

RR

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News | Property

Capital gains tax not the magic bullet some people hope for

By Olly Newland

No matter how often the argument against a capital gains tax is put forward, the subject is still popular among those who, it seems, fail to realise that implementing such a tax will solve nothing.

The suggestion comes up again and again, and it has almost become an article of faith for ‘the left’ some of whom seem to imbue a capital gains tax (CGT) with mythic powers to right all social wrongs.

When the Labour Government of the 1970s brought in a version of the tax to curb rampant property speculation, the result was a further rapid rise in property prices - on top of the 50 percent rise up until then. Sellers rather withdrew their properties from the market than pay the tax. It follows that less stock equals higher prices.

The ‘property speculation tax’ as it was then called, was abolished a few years later by the Muldoon Government and I am proud to say that I was partly instrumental for that.

“

A capital gains tax would only encourage people not to sell — thereby reducing supply and creating a greater shortage than ever. The laws of economics are crystal clear.

- Olly Newland

”

Perception versus reality There is no doubt that the idea of a capital gains tax becomes at times popular.

Ordinary folk who find themselves locked out of the market by rising prices feel angry.

They have a right to be angry. But if they believe the propaganda that a CGT will solve the problem, they’re wrong. It won’t. It would make it worse.

Here’s why: 1. The call for a CGT is a populist cry because it appeals to the masses and is promoted by those with a socialist leaning (e.g. Labour and the Greens and those further to the left).

Of course, sensible people know that these parties are using the issue as propaganda just to have a ‘point of difference’ with the ruling right wing National Government.

2. Profits made on the turnover of properties are already taxed. If someone buys and sells properties on a regular basis they are already liable for the maximum tax under the present legislation. End of story.

3. By far the biggest group of ‘speculators’ is the general public - buying and selling their own homes. If you live in your home then sell it for a huge profit it is almost certain you will pay no tax… even of you do so regularly.

To look at if from the other side for a moment, exempting the family home from capital gains tax would be a huge blunder if a CGT was ever introduced. It would mean that house price rises would continue unabated.

Any tax pushes price up

1. Enforce more rigorously taxes on people who buy and sell homes (including their own) as a business. It’s far too slack at present.

Which ever way you put it, any form of tax imposed feeds into prices. I challenge my readers to name one item that’s gone down in price because it has been taxed. There are no such examples as taxes always feed into higher prices.

2. On the sale of any property, if the total proceeds are reinvested into another home or investment property, then that would be tax free. Any surplus retained would be taxed. There would need to be exemptions for extenuating circumstances such as marriage split ups or entering retirement villages and the like.

3. Some countries use a sliding tax system which applies to both private and investment properties. Simply put, tax would be applied in full if a property is sold for a profit within 12 months, but the tax would slide downwards Since the majority, by far, of home sales are over the next 10 years to zero, encouraging made by home owners, any dampening effect long term holding. The paperwork and record would, I predict, go by totally unnoticed. keeping would be horrendous, but perhaps it’s an idea worth considering.

It is true that without a capital gains tax of any sort New Zealand is an outlier or oddball 4. There is some debate on whether Asian in the OECD. But rather than just mimic other buyers are ramping up the market, especially countries, we need to take a logical approach in Auckland, and suggestions that restrictions so that currently tax-free gains are taxed in should be placed on foreign purchasers. I have the case of deliberate profit seeking - but real difficulty seeing what this will achieve without causing major problems to the market other than scratch the xenophobic itch that as a whole. many people seem to display.

Olly Newland

Property Consultant Impartial, expert guidance

For an obligation-free session with Olly, call: 0800 66 22 80 22 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

What we need (if we need anything at all)

A capital gains tax would only encourage people not to sell — thereby reducing supply and creating a greater shortage than ever. The laws of economics are crystal clear: Supply more of any item and it becomes cheaper. Reduce the supply and it becomes dearer.

Once such a tax is introduced, it becomes the thin edge of the wedge and can be built up more and more as time goes by.

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.

‘No problems - only solutions.’

Personal, One-to-one, Confidential

www.ollynewland.co.nz

News | Interview

Number seven’s

stellar opportunity

By Karen Pasco | Cover photo by Kelly Shakespeare Photography

Anonymity is one thing Richie McCaw finds hard to come by. Being able to wander down a street without a barrage of fans keen to meet disputably New Zealand’s most famous resident is an unfamiliar novelty for the All Blacks' captain.

He is currently trying his hardest to be anonymous, travelling the world during his six month sabbatical. But travelling is not the only endeavour that will fill McCaw’s time during the break.

It’s no secret that McCaw is contemplating life after rugby. His remaining years of playing can most probably be counted on the fingers of one hand, so it comes as no surprise that he is looking into ventures outside of the sport.

When old primary school friend Robbie McIlrath tapped McCaw on the shoulder and offered a chance of investing in a Canterbury recruitment agency, McCaw was keen to investigate further.

“I grew up with Robbie. We went to primary school together and played rugby and all that sort of carry on. We went to different secondary schools but played against each other as we were both in Dunedin,” McCaw says.

The business is Stellar Recruitment, an agency that specialises in staffing companies in the mining, oil and gas, renewables, and building and civil infrastructure fields. The company was set up in 2006 by two former Otago University alumni, one of them Robbie, and is now operating in Australia, New Zealand, Asia Pacific, Africa and the Americas.

24 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

“He (Robbie) was thinking about setting up an office in Christchurch, we had a bit of a chat about it and then after the February one (earthquake) he thought now was a good time to do it and asked me if I wanted to be involved in opening the Christchurch office,” McCaw says.

There is no doubting that McCaw has a parochial nature. His allegiance to his country and dedication to lead the national team by example cannot be questioned. It is this parochial spirit that was one of the reasons he wanted to be involved in this business venture. “The business is going to be quite heavily involved with the rebuild of Christchurch – you know to be involved in that in a small way is pretty cool.”

There have been other investments for Richie. A quick glance at the Companies Office register exposes his investments in retirement homes. But as McCaw points out this time the financial input will be backed up with a bit of work on his behalf.

“The retirement homes are just an investment – I have no real input into how they are run or how the business is operated. This is going to be more hands on. Learning about how business operates.

“Well the first year or so is firstly to try and learn a bit about it. I want to get up to speed with how it all works. Obviously I don’t have a lot of time at the moment, but down the track when I’ve got more time I want to definitely be more involved.”

Stellar Recruitment New Zealand manager Ryan Mahalm believes McCaw’s leadership qualities are easily transferred into the business world.

“McCaw brings a unique contribution to our international leadership and executive structure. We have some very talented people leading our business, but to incorporate the views and experiences of such a respected leader of high performers to our strategy through Richie’s presence as a shareholder is absolutely invaluable.”

News | Interview

How the company conducted its operation was also of importance to McCaw. “During the early discussions the directors invited me to a session in Brisbane with the leadership team,” McCaw says. “The values they embrace as an organisation, along with their success, had some real appeal and alignment with my career in rugby. To find a company I can be a part of that has a similar sense of values and a culture of success is a great thing.”

Getting the right staff for any job but particularly those needed for the Canterbury rebuild efforts, is crucial for success. Mahalm says the emphasis is to not only attract and recruit the right talent, but to engage, develop and retain – to justify and maximise the human resource investment.

“Staff turnover is an added threat to employers in such a competitive market.

The recruitment challenges can be tackled creatively and effectively, but the top performing companies we work with create environments people aspire to be in. Not only do people stay, but prospective employee enquiries increase, often alongside increased company performance.”

The conditions observed through fluctuations in the global economy, varied rates of the global financial crisis recovery and trends in commodity prices in the resources sector as well as the direct effects of worker shortages and other challenges facing the Canterbury rebuild, has seen Stellar provide increased consultation on both recruitment and workforce strategy.

Its training workshops for the New Zealand Civil Contractors Federation had a key focus on the full employee life cycle. Maintaining employers should remain centred on strategic investment in the workforce, a commitment to developing robust processes around recruitment, engagement and retention, while also proactively maintaining and preserving a unique and respected company culture, Mahalm says.

“The investment employers make in the recruitment process is significant, especially when faced with critical candidate shortages, high work volumes, a need to recruit a high standard of employee and the increasing variety of avenues in which employers now attract prospective employees.”

You could draw many comparisons between McCaw and the situation in Christchurch at the moment. The uncertainty of what lies ahead, the need to reinvigorate and the determination to get it right. As McCaw continues his sabbatical, there is no doubt he

will be contemplating a multitude of options for his future on and off the field.

McCaw is a goal setter. In his book The Open Side, McCaw describes how even at a very young age, he went about setting targets and striving to achieve them.

When his parents dropped him off at boarding school in Dunedin before starting the 3rd form (the equivalent of year 9), they told him it was a big opportunity that their son had to make the most of.

“

To find a company I can be a part of that has a similar sense of values and a culture of success is a great thing.

- Richie McCaw

”

It wouldn’t be too presumptuous to say that any project McCaw commits to, he does with this philosophy in mind – whether it is on the rugby field or in the business world. So his commitment to Stellar Recruitment and the Canterbury Rebuild should not be taken lightly.

His determination and work ethic are two characteristics McCaw has bucket loads of.

He chose not to find out just exactly how bad his foot injury was during the Rugby World Cup in 2011. Instead to prevent everyone, especially the opposition and media, becoming aware that he could barely walk, he chose instead to hide away for the duration of the tournament, only making appearances when absolutely necessary and even playing down the pain he was in to his teammates.

Yet he continued to give 100 percent in those games, never once letting an injury, which later turned out to be effectively three breaks in his foot, stop him from achieving his goal.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder and no doubt McCaw is hoping this present break from the sport will reignite his passion for the game, spurring him on to maybe even take part in the All Blacks next World Cup campaign.

At this particular interview, he is dressed in a tee shirt and denim shorts. He is relaxed and has his usual open smile - he looks like a boy from Kurow who is about to set off on an adventure.

As he points out quite categorically during the interview, “rugby isn’t going to be around forever,” and so it is that he is happy to look towards the future at options that will allow him to develop further and learn different skills.

Regardless of how many more times he dons the black number seven jersey again, McCaw’s drive to be the best he can will no doubt spur him on to succeed. www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 25

News | Lifestyles

Lifestyles

1.

By Davina Richards

1.

Smart and simple

Puzzleboard How do I put this… it’s just genius. This item has simply captured a concept everyone can appreciate – a creative way of being able to enjoy food and wine, as well as being able to greet guests with a free hand when at a party. The Puzzleboard can be used as a cutting board or serving plate.

Slot more than one together and you can expand your space.

What tops off this design is that any wine glass can simply be fitted in to the blank spot of the board.

RRP: $44.95 Available from: www.notsocks.co.nz

2.

Red heaven

Gibbston Valley China Terrace Pinot Noir 2010

2.

Rated five stars for the second consecutive year in Cuisine Magazine, Gibbston Valley winery has produced yet another must have red. This medium toned pinot noir has a sweetly floral lift with a layering of red fruit, leather and five spices.

It is elegant with lovely clarity and consistency. A unique balanced taste and will keep for eight to 10 years.

RRP: $55 Available from: www.gibbstonvalleynz.com

3.

Audio art

Davone/Eames Grande speakers These distinctively designed Davone/Eames Grande speakers have certainly been created with style in mind, but they absolutely deliver in the quality stakes also. The laminated walnut colour and distinctively shaped body provides a modern retro elegance suitable for both traditional and modern homes. It’s a high end speaker delivering quality sound that also works as a stylish piece of furniture. Wherever you decide to place it, it will certainly maintain the gaze of many who walk in the room.

3.

RRP: $24,995 Available from: www.audioreference.co.nz

4.

Scoopy doo

1.5L Ice Cream maker No matter what time of year, you just can’t beat ice cream – especially if it’s your own special recipe. In just 20 minutes or less you can make your own ice cream, frozen yogurt, sherbet and sorbet. Mix your own flavours to make the ultimate dessert – there’s nothing like your own brand.

RRP: $169 Available from: www.thecookshop.co.nz

5.

Excessive indulgence

Gold plated staples This case of 14 carat gold plated staples has more function than you might expect. The first being, of course, simply using them in your average stapler, so you can pimp up your paperwork. Or, you could put some excitement into your clothing and get creative. The luxury staples were intended primarily as a form of jewellery and you can apply them wherever you like just by using your ordinary stapler - boom.

RRP: $91 Available from: www.oooms.nl

26 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

4.

5.

News | Lifestyles

Lifestyles

By Davina Richards

6.

6.

Ready, set, go pro

Go Pro HERO3 Whether it’s skydiving, skiing, base jumping, surfing, biking, diving or driving, the Go Pro will playback all your favourite moments. The latest edition, the HERO3, is a small, tough, waterproof HD camera. It has been redesigned to be compact, lighter and records with a 12 megapixel sensor which allows the shooting of larger images. It has inbuilt Wi-Fi with remote control, flat lens, optional touch screen, and uses micro SD cards.

RRP: $629.99 Available from: www.racetech.co.nz or www.gopro.com

7.

7.

Finishing touches

Boconcept cushions This contemporary striped design is the perfect accessory to enhance any contemporary furniture needing a stylish finish.

If you want to make any setting stand out, Boconcept has a superb range of products, as well as design tips to help you transform any room and is available in dark grey and in different sizes.

RRP: $79 Available from: www.boconcept.co.nz

8.

Floor to ceiling

Origami no.1 Floor Lamp Designed for a room with a standard ceiling height, this simple lampshade radiates natural lighting to help create or enhance mood. Made from Japanese laminated washi paper, its sharp and stylish folded design is instantly eye catching. Its structure includes fibreglass and has a dimmer switch, allowing you to lift or lower the amount of light to fit the tone of any room.

This unique floor lamp will turn any room in to a piece of art.

8.

RRP: $451 Available from: www.etsy.com Shop link: www.etsy.com/shop/narcislight

9.

Coffee lovers’ carry case

Objectify Tota Coffee Carrier Deluxe Forget coffee spits and drips as you try to stay balanced on the walk back to the office. Coffee lovers can now use the coffee carrier which is made from hard wearing 100 percent merino woollen felt. You can carry up to eight cups with two units in both hands, both large and small cups and includes the appropriate slots for sugar sachets and stirrers. It’s simple, stylish, hard wearing, rolls up for easy storage and serves great purpose for those coffee runs.

9.

RRP: $30 Available from: www.vanilladesignstore.com

10.

Because you’re worth it

All-In-One BB Cream

10.

Finding the right makeup which suits your skin tone can be problematic, but the new All-In-One BB Cream is the makeup you’ll ever want or need. Once applied the cream transforms from a white cream to a burst of colour which adapts to your skin tone, leaving a natural, even and barely there finish. It doesn’t clog your pores and hydrates your skin – it's makeup and skin care all in one.

RPP: $39 Available from: www.thebodyshop.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 27

News | Hot Spots

By Davina Richards

Close to home

Bay of Islands

Experience the culture and lifestyle of Paihia, Kerikeri and Russell, a gateway to both our country’s history and nature, including giant kauri trees, as well as vineyards, art galleries, crafts and New Zealand made products. For those looking to go diving, snorkelling or sailing, you’ll find many water sports and recreational activities here.

Resign yourself to one of the best hotels in the country, Eagles Nest which will inevitably

lead your eyes astray as you draw closer to its luxury villas. Eagles Nest is one of the most elegant and stylish hotels in New Zealand, exuding a magical aura with an instant attraction.

The hotel boasts five luxurious villas offering magnificent views of transcendent landscapes with glistening waters, clear blue skies, wildlife and nature. Its spectacular views are enhanced by the large yawning windows and the outdoor and interior space is joined effortlessly to maximise incredible landscape views.

If you do manage to peel yourself from the sun lounger at some point, you can enjoy the range of activities the hotel offers, including walks, tours, fishing, helicopter experience, skydiving, horse trekking, cycling and golf.

Image courtesy of Innovation Norway, taken by Terje Rakke - Nordic Life.

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For a breath of fresh air that’s close to home, why not explore the stunning coastal scenery and 144 islands at the Bay of Islands. A popular activity is to take a boat to visit the Hole in the Rock, off Cape Brett and swim with the local bottlenose dolphins.

For more information, visit www.northlandnz.com

Worth the trip

Not too far away

Tonga time

Norway's northern delights Home to glaciers, lakes, mountains, national parks, the northern lights and an Arctic ecosystem – Norway is simply a northern delight.

Oslo, the Norwegian capital, holds the lure of cultured city life combined with being a gateway to outdoor activities, such as skiing or hiking in the expansive forests close by.

Speaking of the great outdoors - with approximately 3,000 polar bears in Norway, Svalbard is the place to head for close encounters, or maybe catch some whale watching on the Nordland coast.

One of the many reasons to visit Tonga, the last Polynesian kingdom, is that it simply isn’t overrun by tourists.

Its stimulating and laid back ambience quickly allows you to melt in to the Tongan way of life.

There are as many as 170 islands which make up this fantastic country where the weather marginally changes throughout the year, so you can visit anytime and enjoy traditional Tongan fare, cultural shows and get in to the rhythm of Tongan festivals.

Head off and explore deserted white beaches, volcanic landscapes, dive to discover wrecks, chasms and caves, snorkel on the vibrant reef, go sea kayaking, fishing, sailing, surfing, whale watching or swimming with humpback whales, go on a kart safari or explore beautiful rainforests on the many islets.

Sink your teeth into the range of scrumptious food from cheese, fish and meat to Scandinavian home made breads, delicious waffles and wafer biscuits.

Tonga is a friendly nation where the locals value their national identity and everyday living is a blend of rich history and modern elements.

It’s not too far away and can be enjoyed at any time of the year. So whether you’re looking for an adventure packed holiday, an authentic Tongan experience, or want to laze around taking in the crystal blue views of the ocean from the comfort of a stunning beach, Tonga is at your service.

green and white light dancing across the dark winter sky, it’s a memory to last a lifetime. And why not try dog-sledding while you’re there?

One of the country’s iconic views is from Preikestolen, known as Pulpit Rock, in Rogaland, perched high above one of Norway’s famous fjords. Take a two hour hike to reach the cliff which is perched more than 600m above the water of Lysefjord. Just be careful not to stand too close to the edge, unless you’re Bear Grylls that is.

Norway is a truly remarkable place to visit and one which intends to permanently mark itself as a country that stays at the top of destination hotspots.

For more information, visit: www.visitnorway.com

What better way to view Norway’s impressive scenery than with a train trip on the Oslo-Bergen rail line, known as one of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys.

It links Norway’s two main cities, Oslo and Bergen and passes through forests, countryside and over Europe’s highest mountainous plateau, Hardangervidda. And it doesn’t matter if there’s falling snow or summer sunshine, any season will enhance your experience.

Head north to see the spectacular northern lights - a phenomenal view worthy of anyone’s ‘bucket list’. If you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the stunning display of

For more information, visit: www.thekingdomoftonga.com Northern Lights over Tromsø, Troms, Northern Norway Image courtesy of Innovation Norway, taken by Bård Løken.

28 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Focus | The Campaign for Wool

The wonder

of wool The Campaign for Wool is a global community of sheep farmers, retailers, designers, manufacturers and consumers united by one of the world’s most influential farmers – His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales.

As a farmer himself, Prince Charles was alarmed by news that it would often cost more for a farmer to shear a sheep than they would be paid for the wool.

Accompanied by the startling fact that sheep had been purposely bred not to require shearing, grotesquely called the ‘easy care’, he organised an urgent meeting with manufacturers, retailers and growers to ascertain the underlying issue.

The result was The Campaign for Wool.

Founded in 2010, it represents a global initiative to re-educate the consumer on the incomparable qualities of wool.

His Royal Highness addressed The Campaign for Wool launch in New Zealand saying, “We have been ignoring natural products in favour of cheaper, man made alternatives, yet it’s clear to see nature has the edge. For example, wool is naturally flame retardant to some 600 degrees - that’s something to consider when carpeting your home.”

Prince Charles' concerns resonated throughout the farming community and further afield as momentum for The Campaign for Wool continues to escalate. In its maiden year the campaign made headlines in Britain as sheep grazed on Saville Row in Mayfair, London and dyed yellow sheep were herded through high end retailer Selfridges & Co’s store (whose brand colours are vibrant yellow).

With the patronage of the Prince of Wales and the backing of a huge number of global manufacturers, retailers, designers, trade organisations and hopefully soon the lost consumer, wool will be resurrected as the super fibre it has been since the first discovery of the fleece in 5000 BC.

Why choose wool?

Every year sheep produce a new fleece making it a renewable and sustainable source direct from Mother Nature herself and as a fabric, it is extremely versatile. A natural elasticity makes it ideal for use in the fashion industry and its fire retardant qualities have been championed by the New Zealand Fire Services as being less hazardous in the home than artificial, man made alternatives.

The acclimatising qualities of the fabric mean it can adapt to any environment, keeping you cool in warm weather and warm in cooler temperatures. Perfect as an insulator and a sound proofer, the list of benefits greatly

WOOL GROWERS; MAXIMISE YOUR WOOL CHEQUE – SELL DIRECT to WSI, New Zealand’s largest Wool Exporter and first stage wool processor.

NZ Wool Services Int’l Ltd (WSI) purchases wool direct from farms, closely linking growers to manufacturers while minimising selling costs.

Contact: Malcolm Ching Phone: 03 3578711 Email: malcolm@woolserv.co.nz

www.woolserv.co.nz 30 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

outweighs those of imposter materials claiming to be superior to the fleece.

The Campaign for Wool’s New Zealand representative, Stephen Fookes says, “Consumers, at all levels, from high end fashion to interior textiles, to industrial filtration, to medical treatment, to cosmetics, to providing better and safer environment for all generations, are now getting the opportunity to be part of the global wool renaissance”.

While The Campaign for Wool promotes wool as a conscious, quality choice for the consumer, it also represents the support of a primary industry that has been historically integral to New Zealand’s economy and national identity.

Worldwide recognition of the natural prowess of wool is the aim of The Campaign for Wool and it may take time to re-educate a generation of consumers who have been bombarded with the unethical procedures of many manufacturers producing alternatives for a minimum, yet selling at a premium.

With low prices comes a chain of responsibility akin to the fast food market – quality is sacrificed, but produce is glorified through big budget advertising.

Quality is a premium and always will be and wool is that premium and worth the investment. For example, when using wool in the home consider its adaptability – with a unique cell structure, wool works in harmony with its environment, enabling it to breathe and absorb moisture, thus reducing humidity levels and acting as a hypoallergenic. The high nitrogen and water content make it an extremely hard fibre to ignite and its unique structure also repels soiling. While remaining strong and durable, wool is also incredibly tactile; naturally soft and plush to the touch.

The Campaign for Wool intends to reignite the world consumer’s love affair with wool via the influential medium of re-education. The pivotal word in the campaign seems to be ‘re-educate’ and many amazing facts will be covered in this section, but for further learning about the magic of fleece – visit The Campaign for Wool websites – www.campaignforwool. org or www.campaignforwool.co.nz Look out for the campaign logo and abide by the catchy slogan; ‘Give Fleece a Chance’.

After all, wool has to be pretty good – sheep have been wearing it for years!

Cavalier WoolsCourers proud suppor ters of The

Campaign For Wool

Cavalier Woolscourers is the first company anywhere in the world to be licensed under the Environmental Choice EC47 specification.

Cavalier Woolscourers Ltd has two main scouring sites located in the geographical heart of New Zealand’s wool growing regions. Hawkes Bay Woolscourers is located in Napier and Canterbury Woolscourers is located in Timaru.

Cavalier Woolscourers Ltd is the largest woolscouring company in the world by volume. They operate highly advanced woolscouring sites and are classed as world leaders in their field.

Each of the Cavalier sites has the capacity to wash in excess of one million kilograms of greasy wool each week which equates to annual wool clip from 365,000 sheep each week.

The company is a commission woolscourer and scours wool for 90 percent of New Zealand’s wool exporters.

Having an accreditation such as the EC47 licence has formalised and validated the continuous improvement development path that we were already on. While our local customers here in New Zealand know what we

are achieving, having an internationally recognizable accreditation will give our international customers the confidence that their wool is being washed to the best international standards,” says CEO Nigel Hales.

Cavalier Woolscourers offers specialty scouring services, with a one bale minimum lot size, they are regularly scouring Merino, Alpaca , Drysdale and Mohair fibre.

They also have processed the finest bale of Merino fleece grown in New Zealand.

Passionate about New Zealand Wool, The Cavalier Woolscourers team are ready to process your wool to your exacting requirements.

Visit their website at : www.cavalierwoolscourers.co.nz

Focus | The Campaign for Wool

Eco Insulation When it comes to choosing insulation it’s pretty plain to see the benefits of using eco-friendly wool products.

Eco Insulation is well renowned within the industry for utilising wool for its insulating, thermal qualities and the company’s inclusion as a brand partner for The Campaign for Wool further exemplifies the key ingredients of its product, Ecofleece, to the general public.

Eco Insulation director Debra Gillette says the reason it’s such a great material is due to its breathability. “It naturally absorbs and releases moisture to maintain temperature.

Also, the natural crimping in the fibre gives wool great acoustic or sound proofing qualities, meaning it does not transmit sound within a building or a home.”

Any home owner should consider the benefits of using Ecofleece as both a cost saving venture and a healthy choice. Other materials require masks to fit, due to the dangers of inhaling the fibres, whereas Ecofleece can be fitted without any respiration protection due to its natural qualities.

Pioneers in the field By using only New Zealand recycled wool, Eco Insulation is not only supporting the New Zealand primary industry of sheep farming, the company is honouring its eco-friendly name and reputation.

“Eco Insulation pioneered the use of wool insulation in New Zealand and we continue to develop and innovate with key applications for wool products in an evolving housing and commercial market,” she says.

condensation in the winter while creating a pleasant cooling effect on those warmer summer days.

Its absorption of toxins such as sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and formaldehyde (emitted from gas stoves, heaters and building materials), keeps our living air cleaner and free of undesirable pollutants.

Longevity is often associated with wool products. Wool is a protein fibre composed of approximately 20 amino acids meaning it is strong, elastic and durable while remaining soft to the human touch.

Energy efficient For 14 years and as a partner in the government’s Warm Up NZ Programme, Eco Insulation has insulated more than 50,000 Kiwi homes.

“

Eco Insulation pioneered the use of

Think of the benefits of having a roof lined with wool, it’s the home equivalent of a nice warm woollen hat! Remember that 40 percent of heat loss in a home is through the ceiling, so the energy savings alone make it worthwhile.

The sustainable reproduction of the wool Eco Insulation uses can be seen all around us; in New Zealand’s own fields. The natural aspects of insulating a home with wool are not only for personal gratification and comfort reasons - the use of wool on a large scale will help the farmers in our own country as they look to reignite consumers’ passion for the home grown, traceable product.

“We actively promote the benefits of wool over other products - it’s recyclable, sustainable and a renewable resource that The company’s recent nomination as one of will stimulate the New Zealand economy if we New Zealand’s top 50 green companies all use it.”

(New River Green 50) has cemented Eco Insulation’s reputation as an eco-conscious The natural humidifying qualities of wool further qualifies it as an ideal fibre to be used organisation with a focus on environmentally friendly products. for insulating homes. It retains moisture and

wool insulation in New Zealand and we continue to develop and innovate with

key applications for wool products in an evolving housing and commercial market.

”

Eco Insulation Ltd 7 Beatrice Tinsley Cres Wool, the key contributor towards Eco Rosedale, North Shore City Insulation’s success, is riding a wave of Auckland publicity fronted by The Campaign for Wool T 0800 400 326 and Eco Insulation supports the promotion of E enquiries@ecoinsulation.co.nz the Kiwi fleece and all its uses… but especially www.ecoinsulation.co.nz for insulation!

— Advertising Feature

insulation New Zealand leaders in Wool and other planet friendly insulation products.

0800 400 ECO

www.ecoinsulation.co.nz

32 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Natural, Insulation, No Harmful Substances, Non-irritant, Non-allergenic, Nontoxic and Odorless.

Award winning

innovators behind the use of natural wool in home insulation in New Zealand

Focus | The Campaign for Wool

Liz Mitchell Liz Mitchell is one of New Zealand’s finest fashion designers who specialises in bespoke tailoring and has been a champion of wool and its unique, enduring qualities.

Based in Auckland she has designed garments for many well known New Zealanders from film, opera, television and theatre, entertainment and business. Her work has graced the red carpet at the Oscars.

Karin Horen turned heads when she recently wore a Liz Mitchell Grecian gown to the premier of the final season of Spartacus. Liz Mitchell has also designed all of Sir Richard Taylor’s garments for his numerous Oscar acceptances.

With quality being the key ingredient of Liz Mitchell’s success during the years, it’s no surprise to learn Liz uses of wool in many of her finest garments.

“I’ve always loved natural materials throughout my career and have had strong ties with the New Zealand Wool Board. I love the beauty of the fibre. It is enduring, versatile and breathable. It helps creates classics for customers that value quality.”

“Even when we are in a recessionary phase, people will still pay for bespoke tailoring and quality fabrics with individual tailoring.”

Throughout her 20 year career, Liz has worked with the finest wools and produced classic elegant garments with the endurance only wool can provide for many of her customers who have become long term clients.

“There is a certain pressure to keep prices down and compromise quality,“ continues Liz, “but I prefer to encourage my clients to consider the quality and longevity of wool over other man-made fibres.”

Favouring the sustainable over the disposable, Liz Mitchell will continue to promote the use of wool, not only in her own work, but also to a generation of consumers who she would like to educate on the qualities of natural fibres.

“The craft of tailoring is all about quality and with wool, we know it’s a sustainable product and that’s why many years later my garments still look stunning and the consumer is happy with the longevity and durability, while maintaining the beauty and aesthetic.”

“

I’ve always loved natural materials throughout my career and have had strong ties with the New Zealand Wool Board. I love the beauty of the fibre. It is enduring, versatile and breathable. It helps create classics for customers that value quality.

”

With top end designers internationally and local design leaders like Liz Mitchell championing the use of wool, and being a proud brand partner of The Campaign for Wool, it is something the fashion industry as a whole needs to consider.

For Liz Mitchell wool presents a naturally pliable material that provides a striking look, a sustainable choice and an ideal option for her bespoke work.

“I describe my style as ‘slow fashion’.

Internationally we are seeing garments that look the same, produced with a fast turnover of seasonal styles. I like to take time to meet my customers’ needs and add an individual aspect to my work.”

Lifestyles have changed significantly during the past few years and society has embraced a fast throwaway mentality to fashion, whereas Liz Mitchell prefers to makes garments to stand the test of time and are beautiful pieces.

Liz Mitchell 196 Great North Road Grey Lynn Auckland T (09) 360 8025 www.lizmitchellretail.co.nz — Advertising Feature

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 33

Goods & Services | Printing & Packaging

Print Imagine a world without print. Print plays a huge role in our lives, helping us to learn, communicate and relax in our leisure time.

For businesses, print is an essential marketing tool. How would your business operate without business cards and stationery, signage, product packaging, promotional brochures and other print items?

Print helps a business to stand out, catch the customer’s attention and stay at the ‘front of mind’.

- helping your business to communicate

In 2010 the print industry launched a marketing campaign called Print: Part of Life.

The intention of this campaign is to promote print as an effective marketing tool and give hard facts about the substantial work the industry has done to reduce its impact on the environment.

Did you know that during the last 20 years, the print industry has reduced its carbon footprint by 97 percent? This is a huge achievement that is matched by very few other industries (source: Phillip W. Lawrence - Thesis: Barriers and Incentives to Ecological Modernisation).

Five steps to a fantastic print job 1. Allow enough time – for concept development, design, proofing, printing, print finishing (folding etc), distribution 2. Be clear about your requirements from the start – time frames, budget, any special embellishments etc 3. Ensure your print file is set up correctly – talk to your printer about the best way to do this 4. Check the printer’s proof thoroughly – any last typos or image quality issues?

5. Incorporate QR codes for a more interactive campaign and to track and measure audience participation.

Many printers use environmentally friendly FSC or PEFC certified paper – if you have questions in this area, just ask your printer.

The print industry uses the latest technology to provide top quality products that can include a wide range of special effects on a variety of print surfaces. From bankcards and magazines, to brochures and billboards, the quality is second to none.

The print industry employs skilled people to design, print and put the finishing touches on a huge range of print jobs. Many print businesses put staff through formal training including apprenticeships, ensuring their staff have the right skills and knowledge to produce your job.

Increasingly, businesses are developing multimedia marketing campaigns that include print and online communications. This double barrel approach enables you to get your message across even more effectively.

For example, businesses are incorporating QR codes into their print communications, enabling a consumer to scan the code with their smartphone to visit a website, register for more information or get details of a special offer. The potential for QR codes is endless.

34 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Ruth Cobb is the general manager of PrintNZ, the trade association for the print industry – for more information contact PrintNZ on 0800 654 455 or visit www.printnz.co.nz

For more information about the Print: Part of Life campaign scan the QR code, or visit www.partoflife.co.nz Make sure you use print as part of your next marketing campaign.

Guardian Print offers a total turnkey printing service and can print everything from daily newspapers through to glossy magazines and catalogues.

The Ashburton based company is one of only three printers in New Zealand to offer heatset printing on glossy paper, as well as traditional coldest printing onto newsprint.

Specialised heatset printing Guardian Print invested in a new heatset press five years ago to expand its place within the printing market and offer a complete printing service.

Financial controller Ross Mains says the heatset printer has been a big success. “It allows us to print glossy publications, such as magazines, tabloid newspapers, flyers, brochures and catalogues. It opens up new markets and means we’re now a one-stop shop.”

Heatset is a flexible and efficient printing process that results in high quality and cost effective formats and products.

In coldset printing, ink is absorbed into the newsprint and sets cold, but with heatset the printed pages go through a process that effectively sets the ink on top of the paper, then applies a coating of silicone, putting the moisture back into the paper and giving a superior feel and brightness. The ink is also applied more densely so colours are richer.

Guardian Print’s business has grown rapidly since it invested in the heatset press.

“We produce a number of large property publications and several magazines, as well as a large number of national catalogues,” Ross says. “We have gained a foothold in the marketplace and have experienced some significant growth.”

Increased printing options Guardian Print’s inline heatset printing provides easy mix and match options for publishers.

Printing can be done on a combination of both newsprint and gloss paper, with a variety of paginations and formats available.

single press pass (24 out of 32 broadsheet pages).

“We provide a lot of flexibility in what we offer,” Ross says.

“We’re 100 percent New Zealand owned and are a local business. We can produce large and small runs and we offer a great service.”

Guardian Print can produce up to 35,000 copies per hour and guarantees a fast turnaround.

A long history in print Guardian Print’s origins date back 120 years, with the company holding a vast knowledge of the printing industry.

Guardian Print can take care of all your printing needs and offers a range of services, including: • High quality heatset printing on glossy paper, including magazines, tabloid newspapers, brochures and catalogues • Traditional coldset printing onto newsprint • A combination of newsprint and glossy paper printing in a variety of paginations and formats • Using Kodak’s square dot thermal printing results in a higher quality end result • Auto registration ensures the finished result is picture perfect

The company is 50 percent owned by the Ashburton Guardian, which is one of only three independently owned daily newspapers left in New Zealand.

• A top of the line Muller Martini inserter and stitch-and-trim machinery provides a fast compiling, trimming and stapling service for magazine format items

Ross attributes its success in the competitive printing market to its professionalism and high level of service.

• Full labelling and distribution services, individual bagging or standard bundling

He says the company was firmly established as a leading South Island printing company within the coldset market before it moved into heatset printing five years ago. “We’ve never advertised our coldset services; we’ve grown by word of mouth in the newspaper market. We were printing most independent publications in the South Island with our coldset service,” he says.

• Overnight delivery to Wellington and 24 hours to Auckland.

“We then looked at where our future growth was going to come from and invested in heatset.”

Guardian Print has been led by general manager Steve Gallop for four years. Steve brought a huge amount experience into the company. “He has been in the printing industry for over 25 years,” Ross says.

“Steve uses that experience to assist our customers in maximising the impact of their printing investment.”

This is a level of flexibility available nowhere else in the country.

Guardian Print is the only New Zealand printer that can offer this combination of inline heatset and coldset mix options.

This superior quality and flexibility is due to the installation of its new DGM press, produced by the largest supplier of single-width presses to the US market.

This single width press is ideal for short and medium run quality printing, and allows for four-page tabloid (or two-page broadsheet) increments. Full colour printing is now an industry standard and is provided on 48 out of 64 tabloid pages on a

Guardian Print Limited PO Box 77 Ashburton T (03) 307 7930 F (03) 307 7931 E info@guardianprint.co.nz www.guardianprint.co.nz

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 35

RR Goods & Services | Printing & Packaging

Is your brand packaged properly Today’s business environment is extremely competitive.

Your packaging is becoming increasingly important and therefore it’s important to keep your brand looking fresh and inviting.

Traditional print uses embossing to add dimension and is still available today. The use of gloss and matt varnishes can promote

It is important to understand that what works across one print medium does not necessary transfer to another.

Getting your label printers involved at the conceptual stage to ensure your design works on all levels, is effective and innovative, but also takes into account your budget, launch date and efficient use of materials. This is a key component to a successful brand campaign.

Jenkins produces quality label products specialising in beverage, horticulture and working labels. Great people, industry knowledge, innovative products and the ability to provide exceptional service and solutions to the NZ label market are the corner stone of the Jenkins business.

Jenkins Group T (09) 270 2160 T 0800 jenkins (536546) www.jenkinsgroup.co.nz — Advertising Feature

WE HAVE THOUSANDS OF JOBS READY FOR YOU NOW! Register now and receive FREE email alerts.

To help you find that perfect job, you can create your own work wanted ad.

This is where you state exactly what job/career you want, what location you’d like to work in, how much money you want, when you want to start and what benefits would keep you happy.

This is your ideal chance to be headhunted! In today’s employment market you have the upper hand, so get employers looking for you. You can keep your identity hidden so your current employer doesn’t see it.

We also have some progressive companies with video profiles of their organisations and amenities, so you can really see what it’s like there before wasting your time.

Proud to be the only major Kiwi owned job site!

SEARCH ONLINE ON:

OR PHONE 0800 4 TODAY (0800 486 329) The launch site for every Kiwi career

36 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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This is your job space – provided by Kiwis for the benefit of all Kiwis.

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Alternatively, you can simply post your CV and see what opportunities knock on your door to the new future.

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Interactive packaging is also becoming increasingly appealing to the everyday consumer. Packaging design is not all about visual appearance; texture can add an alternative dimension and leave you with a lasting impression. Textured inks give definition, create an exciting feel and add an element of interest to the design.

What you’re printing onto also has an impact.

Different substrates not only alter the design appearance, but are vital in the consideration of the environment. UV light, heat, moisture and handling are all considerations at material selection stage.

CV Database

The modern consumer is more aware of alternatives and always keen to try new products. Products that stand out are products that sell. Adding interest to labels and packaging is a great way to engage the consumer and there are many “value add” ideas in labels and tags which complement advertising campaigns and assist promotions.

While the basic fundamentals of label printing have not changed dramatically during the last decade, new technologies with inks, foil and specialty varnishes are available which can dramatically alter the appearance of labels.

design and add layers along with interest to labels. The range of foils available is extensive including a pattern selection with holographic imagery.

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Goods & Services | Kimberley Tool & Design

The pressed metal

specialists

Kimberley Tool and Design (NZ) Limited has the solution for all your metal pressing and press tooling requirements.

a bulk of machine capacity to make them quickly and cost effectively. It also runs a modern and well-equipped tool room, which incorporates CAD and EDM processes alongside tooling, milling, drilling, grinding and turning equipment.

The Waihi based company is in the business of solving problems and working with customers across a wide range of industries, including construction, roofing, domestic appliance, automotive lighting, dairy and agriculture.

Kimberley Tool and Design has a new turret press that is opening up new opportunities for the company and its customers.

New capabilities with turret press

<

Operations manager Jon-Brian Parker says the turret press is an exciting addition for Kimberley Tool and Design (KTD) is an industry KTD, which will now be able to fast track its leader in making pressed metal components. prototype work. “It will help us design tools The company’s highly skilled staff can make for customers and will allow us to reduce the virtually any component, from a 3mm x capital outlay they’re having to front up,” 12mm item up to a 3m long component that he says. weighs 16kgs.

“In a small country, access to R&D capital KTD has considerable experience in tends to be hard. This will allow a quicker component design and is a specialist in response for prototyping and we can do it all prototypes and product development. in house.”

The company works on a wide range of The turret press is an amalgamation between ferrous and non-ferrous metals, stainless old school folding and forming technology, steel, aluminium and extrusions, and even and new technology that allows KTD to create silver. It can do runs of any size, from 100 flat blanks quickly and cost effectively. “It through to 100,000 or more. It can also take will allow the customer to take the product care of all finishing aspects of manufacturing, to market quicker, as we don’t have to worry including assembly, packaging and logistics. about making the big tools to do blanking,” he says.

KTD has one of the largest press shops in New Zealand, with a spread of machines “We can do faster prototype work and can from 2-150 tonnes, including coil-handling make small changes quickly if something facilities up to 900mm wide, a 3m x 6mm CNC needs to be tweaked. Our product guillotine and a 135 tonne press brake. development will improve and it will give other potential customers access to us as This allows the company to give all components the attention they deserve and a supplier.”

Kimberley Tool and Design has one of the largest press shops in New Zealand

“

components the attention they deserve.

KTD’s plant and capabilities includes:

• High-precision CNC guillotine with a capacity of 3050 x 6mm in steel, copper, brass and 5mm in stainless steel • Coil handling equipment to more than 900mm wide, coil straightening equipment up to 4mm thick • Press brake of 135tonnes capacity • 24 station turret press • Regularly handle all types of materials • CAD design facilities • CNC turning up to 2m long x 370 diameter, 830mm in the gap • 3D CNC CAD/CAM milling in house • Access to all varieties of metal finishing options • High-precision conventional milling, drilling, turning and grinding facilities • Press tool and product design and manufacture to customer brief.

accounting success

LTD

Proudly supporting Kimberley Tool & Design (NZ) Limited

Bhavesh Ranchhod CA

- Wealth of Experience - Excellent Quality Products - Comprehensive Stock Range

“ Proud to support ‘Kimberley

Director

Tool and Design’ after doing business for over 25 years

”

KIMBERLEY

DESIGN

38 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

14 Timothy Place

Avondale

The company works on a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, stainless steel, aluminium and extrusions, and even silver.

KTD has the skills to make virtually any component

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www.ambrometals.com Phone: 0800 484 111

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90 Seddon Street, Waihi 3641 PO Box 20, Waihi Phone 07 863 7125 Fax 07 863 6089 Mobile 0274 187 712 Email: bhavesh@accountingforsuccess.co.nz

TOOL

”

• Power presses from 1 to 150 tonnes stamping capacity

afs

FOR

This allows the company to give all

Kimberley Tool & Design (NZ) Limited

Toolmakers and Manufacturing Engineers 60 Ford Road P O Box 79 Waihi 3641, New Zealand

Ph +64 7 8638008 Fx +64 7 8638018 www.ktd.co.nz

NEW PLANT ADDITION ‘Muratec Wiedemann CNC Turret Punch Press’

Goods & Services | Kimberley Tool & Design

Huge benefits with Esi-Clean waste traps The Esi-Clean trap saves time, material and labour as it does away with troubles associated with digging up floors, or getting under floors to clear blockages of orthodox trap installations. No allowances are needed for inspection holes or latches to clear blockages below floor levels.

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If trap blocks, cleaning is gained by unscrewing top and removing obstruction, the lid is then simply screwed back on.

Versatile waste trap

The Esi-Clean traps are designed for use in showers, urinals, floors, patios and any situation that requires the overflow pipe to be trapped to prevent blockages and distasteful smells venting into the room.

KTD is an industry leader in making pressed metal components

KTD purchased the rights to manufacture and distribute Esi-Clean traps from Metalcraft Roofing late last year. As KTD has traditionally been a contract manufacturer, the waste traps are the company’s first branded product.

Esi-Clean waste traps are a patented design, manufactured with a removable top to make cleaning out the waste easy.

KTD operations manager Jon-Brian Parker says KTD has been manufacturing the waste traps for six months and production is going well.

“It’s a good product mix for us and ties in with what we do. As the building industry picks up, as it’s starting to do, there is a lot of potential there,” he says.

“Esi-Clean traps can go into industrial or residential settings. They are small enough for your shower at home or big enough to go in the middle of wash-off pads in freezing works.”

Esi-Clean traps were first produced in the 1950s and are a trusted and recognised brand.

“We’ll be doing some minor tweaks to improve the product for manufacturability,” he says.

“We can use what we know to make the product better and cheaper, but I’m not anticipating any major changes to it. The product design is so simple, it’s clever.”

Use a patented, tough, durable, stainless steel Esi-Clean waste trap and guarantee your installation.

• Bottom exit traps with flat tops for residential and light commercial floor use • Side exit traps for residential and light commercial floor use • Industrial-sized waste traps

This is the first branded product KTD has ever manufactured and Parker is keen to explore other possibilities in the future.

“Having our own products is something I’d like to look at moving more and more towards.

Some product lines that we’ve been working on are starting to come to fruition. But while we’re looking at developing some other products, our mainstay of business will remain as contract manufacturing.”

More than just a supplier KTD has Esi-Clean customers located from Kaitaia to Bluff and hopes to gain more contract manufacturing work from the South Island, particularly as the Christchurch rebuild gains momentum.

“We want to keep doing what we’ve always done and do it well, but we want to be available to new customers,” Parker says.

KTD operates a wide range of machinery in its Waihi workshop

<

Kimberley Tool and Design (NZ) Limited is now manufacturing Esi-Clean waste traps, which have been used widely throughout New Zealand for 60 odd years.

The range of Esi-Clean waste traps includes:

• Floor/roof waste where water needs to be trapped • Traps for vinyl and tile floors • Component part/weldable applications for shower trays and urinals • Component part/weldable applications for equipment.

Kimberley Tool and Design (NZ) Limited PO Box 79 Waihi T (07) 863 8008 E admin@ktd.co.nz www.ktd.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

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“We don’t want to just be another supplier; we want to be the supplier of choice. I want to get alongside the customer and sit down with them through the design stages and work with them to make a product that is smart and cost effective to produce, which in turn gives them excellent product and competitive pricing.”

ALSO SPECIALISING IN · Plant maintenance · Electrical · Air tools sales & service · Hire compressors available · Compressed air system · Design & build

FOR METAL THAT SHINES!

Bayteck Systems are proud to support Kimberley Tool & Design (NZ) Ltd

At Manukau Metal Polishers Ltd’s Auckland base, our metal polishing services are second to none and cover a variety of metals, such as:

Steel and stainless steel Brass and copper Silver - Aluminium - Bronze

Ph. 09 622 1116 | www.manukaumetalpolishers.co.nz

Distributors for HDPE, PE, PP-R pressure and drainage pipe & fittings.

BAY OF PLENTY: 31 AVIATION AVE, MOUNT MAUNGANUI PH: (07) 571-5410

WAIKATO:

1 KENT STREET, FRANKTON, HAMILTON PH: (07) 847-8059

Visit www.bayteck.co.nz to view our products and services www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 39

Business Development | Accounting Feature

Do you understand your numbers?

It may be a cliché but it is indisputable - cash flow is the lifeblood of any business. Here are Deloitte’s top tips to keep on top of cash flow.

Cash inflows • Invoice promptly – Don’t wait until the end of the month to send out invoices, invoice throughout the month • Communicate your credit terms – Clearly state the payment due date on your invoices and statements as well as your bank account to encourage customers to make electronic payments • Review your credit policy – Often payment is required on the 20th of the month following invoice. However, if you invoice customers regularly throughout the month and issue one customer an invoice on the first of the month, you will wait around 50 days before getting paid. By comparison, an invoice issued on the last day of a month will be paid within 20 days. Consider adopting a payment policy of 30 days after the date of invoice • Know your customer’s payment process – Many larger corporates have a streamlined month end financial reporting process which may mean they stop processing invoices for payment a day or two prior to month end and after that the invoices are processed the following month. It is worth knowing if this is the case for your major customers so you can ensure your invoices reach their accounts payable process in time for prompt payment • Prompt payment discount – Offering discount for prompt payment may seem like a self-imposed reduction in revenue however, consider the additional interest cost you are incurring to fund your customer’s late payment

• Accept payment by credit card – Encourage customers to pay immediately by credit card. The customer still gets some free credit from the credit card company and may also get other benefits such as air points by paying on their credit card. While you will incur credit card charges, these may be outweighed by saving in interest cost otherwise incurred, as well as the time spent following up on overdue amounts • Review customer credit history – If a customer has a history of slow payment, consider changing the credit terms by introducing a late payment finance charge, shortening their credit term or even eliminating credit entirely. You don’t have to offer the same terms of credit to all of your customers • Call customers prior to payment date – Consider calling your customer before the payment date to confirm the goods are all in order and that the invoice will be paid on time This can be particularly useful if the invoice is larger than normal or if the customer has a history of querying your invoices • Follow up late payments – The longer a debt remains unpaid, the more likely it is to turn into a bad debt so make immediate contact when payment does not arrive on time. Be assertive but polite. Document your conversation and follow up on any promises made. Use collection services when necessary but ensure the cost of doing so is reasonable for the amount you will recover.

Cash outflows

What is cash flow?

• Review and reduce costs – Review all elements of expenditure and ask whether the benefit to your business exceeds the cost

• Paying the bills • Paying wages

• Regularly compare prices – You will have seen advertisements for special prices to attract new customers, which can irk if you as a regular customer are expected to pay more! There is no harm in politely asking for the best price from your suppliers and using price comparisons where appropriate

• Buying fixed assets

• Consider alternative ways to achieve the same result – For example, in a seasonal business how can you restructure staffing levels to better mirror the timing of revenue? If you do need to maintain excess staff over the off-season, what other tasks can those people do that will add benefit to your business?

Cash inflows

• Meeting lease commitments • Paying interest • Paying taxes

• Collecting money from customers • Obtaining loans from the bank • Receiving funds from owners • Receiving interest The difference is net cash flow

• Maximise supplier credit terms – Many businesses require payment by the 20th of the month following invoice however some • Plan capital expenditure – Review work on payment terms of 30 days after your plant and equipment regularly and invoice. Don’t pay suppliers until you have anticipate when items will need to be to. Process two (or more) payment runs each upgraded and replaced. Maintain an asset month to take advantage of supplier replacement schedule and incorporate the credit terms cost into your cash flow forecast • Extend supplier credit terms – Some suppliers offer extended payment terms of sixty or even ninety days, allowing you to keep money in your cash flow pipeline for longer. Be careful however not to overspend and be unable to pay supplier accounts as they fall due, particularly if your business experiences seasonal fluctuations • Control your stock – Sell slow moving stock, fashion or seasonal items at a discount, if necessary, to convert the stock to cash and re-invest that cash in more saleable stock items or use it to repay debt. Having cash tied up in slow moving stock items not only increases your businesses finance costs but also increases the warehouse space required • Anticipate up-coming major costs – Some major costs are incurred annually such as insurance, ACC levies, annual licensing or subscriptions. In some cases these can be paid by monthly instalments however a small financing cost may be incurred. If you opt for an annual lump sum payment, make sure you know when the payment is due and how much it will be so you can include this in your cash flow forecasts for the year

40 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Cash outflows

• Lease assets – Funding the acquisition of major fixed assets may put added pressure on the business cash flow. Consider leasing assets rather than acquiring them outright to spread the cost over the life of the asset • Plan income tax payments – For most businesses, provisional tax is payable three times each year in August, January and May. In addition, if taxable income increases, you may not have paid sufficient provisional tax during the year and a ‘terminal’ tax may be payable to make up the shortfall.

Tax payments can be sizable and difficult to fund so ensure you’ve planned for these in your cash flow forecast. Get your year end financial statements and tax returns completed in a timely fashion so that you know, well ahead of time, what your income tax obligations are for the next year.

And, if the profitability of your business significantly changes, contact your accountant and have them estimate your provisional tax payments so you don’t pay too much, or too little, tax throughout the year.

Business Development | Eco Stock

A less wasteful and

better future

Letting waste “feed the future growth” of our nation is the innovative solution developed by an Auckland based company, in order to advance our economy, creating a better and truly sustainable New Zealand.

More than 126 of New Zealand’s leading companies now partner with Eco Stock to divert their waste away from landfill on a daily basis; in doing so these companies saved $3.6 million in costs.

Eco Stock takes packaged and unpackaged foods like breads, chips, biscuits, milk bottles, boxes of cereals and tinned products. All of which are then handled via an innovative, automated de-packing and sorting line.

Eco Stock general manager, Andrew Fisher says the company was created with the vision of reusing waste to generate further jobs and economic growth, while reducing the country’s dependency on landfills.

On a daily basis it sorts and coverts packaged and unpackaged commercial food waste, otherwise destined to be dumped in the landfills, into stock feed, while adhering to strict food safety standards set by the Ministry for Primary Industries.

The vision “We utilised the best available technologies to rescue what was waste and reuse it; advancing our economy by feeding growth via stock feed and composts. This in turn reduces New Zealand farmers’ dependency on imported stock feeds and imported inorganic fertilisers, thus more work in NZ and a real ‘100% Pure New Zealand’ product is produced,” Andrew says.

part of the problem, giving momentum to being ‘100% Pure’.”

He emphases it’s about changing the way people think and act. “Aucklanders dump over 1,000,000 tonnes of waste into landfills every year. This is not sustainable and it’s not the cheapest option either.

“This is not 100 percent pure and doesn’t fit with Auckland’s aim of being the best city to live in. It isn’t using new technology or creating economic growth; this is not leaving a better New Zealand for our children. By companies taking a moment to address their commercial food waste, they’ll save money and that makes them more competitive and sustainable.

By using technology and innovation in the right manner, Andrew says together with Eco Stock, businesses can go about creating a better New Zealand and save considerable waste costs in the process.

In the beginning

“Our vision is a relentless pursuit of technology Eco Stock started back in 1987, with just two and innovation, whilst adhering to strict food staff and two trucks, operating under its initial safety. We want to be part of the solution, not name Commercial Foodwaste Recyclers, then under the title Industrial Foodwaste Recyclers, Eco Stockfeeds and finally Eco Stock.

Andrew’s story with Eco Stock began after years of travel, which led to the realisation that while New Zealand was “the best little country in the world” in terms of its every day infrastructure, things remained fairly primitive.

Reclaim diverts recyclable products at source to ensure waste is recycled responsibly.

Using correct sorting procedures, we assure businesses that their recyclable waste is converted into new end-products.

Food waste is sourced from various cooked food waste (meats, veggies, dairy produce) and can be mixed with serviettes and paper towels. Reclaim ensures all this waste is turned into compost.

Holding this vision of advancing growth by applying innovative technology and best

industry practises, Andrew purchased the companyand took up the reins, bringing the systems and standards required to handle such a process.

Steadily growing From its humble beginnings, Eco Stock has grown at an average rate of 225 percent per annum to become the well developed nationwide company it is today.

Today Eco Stock has a team of 36 staff, with 14 trucks servicing 126 food manufacturers and retail businesses around the Auckland region. Seven days a week, 364 days of the year, Eco Stock processes around 3,000 cubic metres of product each week.

Its development of a high speed automated de-packing line means it can process an Olympic swimming pool of packaged food every day. This is then turned into stock feed which is then fed out with other supplementary feeds such as grass silage, barley and maize silage.

Eco Stock is the company any small, medium or big business in need of help reducing their commercial food waste should approach.

By doing so they will be reusing what was waste, helping to advance New Zealand’s economic growth and sustainability.

Eco Stock Sales and general enquiries T 0800 569 001 E andrew.fisher@ecostock.co.nz www.ecostock.co.nz

0800 RECLAIM | www.reclaim.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

That’s our zero food waste goal.

At Countdown our vegetable scraps are not discarded.

We give them to local farmers to feed farm animals.

Proud to support ECO Stock Supplies. www.sanitarium.co.nz

1

2

3

To find out more visit countdown.co.nz

Eco-Stock’s mission is to reuse food waste to generate further jobs and economic growth, not to dump it in a hole.

We offer collection services throughout Auckland. As our capacity has expanded we are looking for more products.

FEEDING GROWTH IN NEW ZEALAND

Easy as 1-2-3 42 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

0800 569 001 www.ecostock.co.nz

Business Development | Living Light

An

enlightening

experience

Candle light can be used for celebration, relaxation, spiritual or religious practices, or for creating a particular atmosphere.

The natural warmth that emanates from candle light is ambient and soothing and immediately gives reason for reflection.

Originating in Golden Bay, the company has expanded so much it is now exporting candles throughout the world, as well as selling through its own concept stores at Hurtsmere Rd in Takapuna, Dunedin, Nelson and its gallery on the site of its original factory at Golden Bay.

Living Light produces a wonderful variety of candles which are New Zealand made – and as managing director Cynthia Baur points out, handmade with love. The company is situated in Golden Bay which provides a backdrop both inspirational and beautiful – just the surrounds needed to create stunning candles.

“

Living Light chooses to use only sustainable and natural ingredients: its soy plant and bees waxes are sourced from sustainably grown crops in New Zealand, America and Malaysia and it also uses natural cotton wicks. The company formulate its own scents using premium fragrances blended with pure essential oils.

“We’re all about creating a beautiful candle that people appreciate and that people know.

Candles are romantic and indulgent, but it is an indulgence that is very inexpensive.

They’re so relaxing and can be used to create your own little world away from the hectic timetable of life.”

The work, attention and detail that goes into every single candle ensures a long burn and top quality performance. Waxes and wicks are rigorously checked for the cleanness of their burning. “We look for colour and scent last and trial extensively for longer burn times that use up as much of the candle as possible.” Every corner, edge and surface of the candle is polished and bevelled using heat guns, hot plates and carving blades, to create a velvety smooth finish.

“The stores give us the opportunity to show the beauty of the product in its entirety.

We can show the elegance of what we do through design and the fragrance.”

The stores also create an opportunity to allow customers to see the art of candle making, as well as educate them on the best way to store and burn the candles they purchase.

“People can immerse themselves in a candle experience.”

We’re all about creating a beautiful candle that people appreciate and that people know.

Candle care

”

In order to optimise how well your candle will burn and how to avoid smoke and spillage, please follow Living Light’s top candle care tips: 1. Remove any candle labels or cellophane before burning.

2. Protect surfaces with a candle plate to catch any leakage or make sure surfaces are heat and stain resistant.

3. Always keep wick trimmed to 5mm (trimming is best done before and during burning) and clear away wick debris each time.

4. Each candle has different burn time instructions, so please read labels carefully. Our Granite Pillar candles, for example, should burn for no more than three hours each time. This will prevent spillage and make the most efficient use of the wax.

5. In general, when burning a candle for the first time, burn it long enough to create a large hole. Depending on the type of candle, the time will vary between three to four hours. This will then set the ‘memory’ and will determine the way the candle will burn each time it is lit.

6. Store candles out of direct sunlight and at room temperature. Burn them in a well ventilated room.

Opening hours Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Sun 11am-4pm Living Light 60B Hurstmere Road Takapuna T (09) 445 2325 www.livinglight.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Our Stores Takapuna 60 B Hurstmere Road Nelson 2A/219 Trafalgar Street Dunedin 145 A Stuart Street www.livinglightcandles.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 43

Business Development | Conferences/Business Meetings

Words are great, action is greater There has been a lot of ‘noise’ around lately about proposed convention infrastructure development in New Zealand, specifically the proposed International Convention Centre to be built on the SkyCity precinct in Auckland, the proposed new Christchurch Convention Centre and a possible new Queenstown Convention Centre.

From a strategic fit, these three developments make perfect sense, especially in terms of the intended capacities and will complement very well the existing facilities throughout the rest of New Zealand, but what we need now is some very firm action to turn concepts and plans into reality.

It is worth walking through the three proposed developments just to get an idea of where they will end up and we start firstly with the International Convention Centre (ICC).

There has been a lot of community debate around the proposed funding model for the ICC which, in simple terms, involves SkyCity Entertainment Group, a public listed company which currently operates the SkyCity Casino, two hotels, plus associated businesses in the Sky Tower in the Auckland SkyCity precinct,

and other operations throughout New Zealand and Australia, including Darwin and Adelaide.

The idea is that in return for agreed gambling concessions, SkyCity will fund the capital costs of the development of approximately $350 million and also operate the convention centre.

Debate has raged throughout New Zealand centres around the social cost of increased problem gambling that could occur if the number of pokie machines within the casino is increased, and there is also political debate around the process which involved our Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, John Key. Currently, there is an investigation being run by the Office of the Auditor General following

Conferences | Team Building Shooting Activities | Promotional Events Weddings & Celebrations

ALL IN A SPECTACULAR SETTING www.themetcalfes.co.nz

027 4828 4890

44 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

a complaint by the NZ Green Party, but the process was very sound around the selection of SkyCity as the preferred operator and hopefully, once this investigation is out of the way, real process can begin.

The Christchurch situation is really more fluid in terms of the proposed convention centre that will be built in the Christchurch CBD and will accommodate up to 2,000 delegates.

The third development concerns a 750 capacity convention centre in Queenstown somewhere within the existing town centre.

The situation is that an initial feasibility study has been presented to the Queenstown Council, which is now considering where to take it in terms of design and how it will be funded. There is an expectation that central government funding will contribute to the development costs.

The Government recently announced a blueprint for the rebuild of the CBD which is very much anchored around a convention centre being built in the city, as well as a proposed new enclosed sporting facility for up to 35,000.

There is a high likelihood that all of these three proposed developments will proceed, which will really propel New Zealand to the next level in terms of its ability to cater for medium to large national and international conventions.

It is envisaged that a Public Private Sector (PPS) partnership model be used to fund the building of the convention centre and several hotel companies have now indicated that they will build new hotels adjacent to the convention centre now it has been decided that it will probably go ahead.

Let us all hope for the sake of the New Zealand industry that the current plans are turned into reality in the very near future, so that the necessary international marketing can begin to ensure the financial viability of the proposed developments.

Article provided by Conventions & Incentives New Zealand

Business Development | Conferences/Business Meetings

Bella Vista’s Auckland connection

Are you enthusiastic about your event?

The Bella Vista Express Hotel Auckland Airport is the latest addition to the Bella Vista Accommodation Nationwide Network and is located three minutes from Auckland International Airport.

A little investment in entertaining clients can go a long way to strengthening a company’s bottom line.

The airport express hotel is unique within the network and recognises that those who travel through this busy airport are in transit, starting or finishing their journey, or co-ordinating their business or leisure travel plans.

The ‘express hotel’ concept provides all of the services of a full service hotel without the trimmings. This means that services and facilities are limited.

Standard hotel facilities and services include, spacious guest accommodation options from studio’s to suites, 24 hour reception, outdoor summer swimming pool, outdoor hot tub,

meeting facilities, long term airport parking, complimentary airport transfers for up to two passengers per room, free WIFI in the lobby and free local phone calls.

The fully catered conference facility consists of three venues, two air conditioned, multipurpose training rooms, with natural light and direct access to the outside courtyards.

These rooms can cater for up to 70 people each in theatre style. The boardroom is located in a quiet area of the hotel on the ground floor and can cater for up to 10 people.

The boardroom is perfect for small meetings or interviews. Best of all is the ample free onsite parking.

For further information regarding the conference facilities please email reservations@bvexpress.co.nz or phone the hotel direct on (09) 275 4540 and ask for the reservations and conference manager and quote SLEEP MEET & EAT to take advantage of the winter special deal.

FLY

John McKenzie from media, events and entertainment company Enthuse says anyone can throw on a few drinks, ”But it’s making an event memorable and differentiating it from what everybody else is doing that is the key.

“The more motivated and inspired a company’s clients and staff is, the more likely they are to remain loyal. It costs more and is so much harder to attract new clients or even new staff than it is to look after existing ones, so it’s not rocket science that really looking after your existing clients and staff should be a priority and that’s where events can make a real difference if done well.

“At Enthuse we work hard to make sure our corporate events are targeted to suit our clients and their guests and that they demonstrate their commitment to looking after their clients and their own staff by providing memorable, different and fun creative events.

“Just hosting clients in a corporate box or at a golf tournament isn’t enough. Developing creative events with unique entertainment demonstrates a commitment that can have

•

• • • •

real benefits to a company’s bottom line. Staff and clients feel the love and in turn are more motivated to perform.

“I just love talking to clients and throwing ideas around to make their events truly special. We’ve done everything from transform venues into magical kingdoms, complete with mingling roving characters that morphed into the themed band in the evening, through to providing our popular Singing Waiters that really do make an evening fun and memorable.”

John says corporate events can all merge together and seem the same, but he takes real pride in providing entertainment that really makes a difference, ensuring the event is unique, memorable and stands out from others.

“Enthuse were flexible, friendly and easy to contact, whilst being highly professional,” one customer says. ”Our event went superbly well and we continued to have great feedback for weeks. Enthuse’s entertainment actually managed to get everyone livened up and dancing – no mean feat for a typically conservative bunch. It just wouldn’t have been the same without enthuse there. We would certainly recommend enthuse for any size function, informal or formal.”

For more information email events@enthuse.co.nz

Entertainment; including their popular Singing Waiters Professional mc & speaker Theming & improvisation Team building Event development & management

MEET “hilarious and as entertainment, they were fantastic” RICHARD HOSKIN, SPORT SOUTHLAND

“flexible, friendly and highly professional”

SLEEP

GRADE RYAN, SINCLAIR KNIGHT MERZ

“energy, enthusiasm, creativity and obvious passion to make a difference for us was impressive” LINCOLN BOOTH, COOKIE TIME

Phone: 03 337 4333 Email: info@enthuse.co.nz Two time New Zealand entertainment company of the year

www.enthuse.co.nz

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 45

Business Development | Conferences/Business Meetings

Conferences that connect Creating effective conferences involves a combination of content, creativity, co-ordination and collaboration. So here are two key element to help keep things simple and engaging for attendees.

Set objectives Design the conference based on the needs of participants and ensure the content is supportive of and aligned with the core message/s. People fear repetition, but don’t ignore the value of re-enforcement!

Set the scene before the event Engage the whole team when designing an event and a simple way to do this is to ask people what they want. This will help you formulate a clear picture of what needs to happen to help deliver a more effective event.

If you can - build excitement! It’s easy to forget that, for many people, the conference is not seen as a bonus – and for some it can be viewed as a major nuisance. So build association early; send out intriguing clues and get people talking. Where possible engage a broad number of people in the delivery of the conference. Intrigue them but don’t make it a mystery as people actually resent secrecy.

Engage the audience Keep the audience active, challenged and ensure that they have to take action. The structure of a conference is alien to the normal working pattern because, during the average working day, people move about, absorb and process information and take action.

At the average conference attendees are relatively static (tricking the brain into believing that they are relaxing), asked to

process one idea at a time and are also asked to simply absorb information without taking immediate action.

So ensure you take care to focus on the physical conditions (chairs, heat, cold, food etc.) to help prevent mental malaise creeping into your event.

And whatever you do, keep people as active as you can. The golden rule to keep people engaged is don’t force them to sit and endure death by PowerPoint presentation.

Welcome to The Normanby Nestled at the base of Mt Eden on the outskirts of Auckland’s CBD lies The Normanby Hotel, unashamedly modelled and stylised on one of New Zealand’s most recognisable icons, the Cardrona Hotel.

THE PERFECT PLACE FOR

Association Meetings | Club Meetings | Gatherings | Workshops

Also ideal for relaxed get togethers Great Food & Atmosphere.

Bar Facilities, 50 Inch Data TV 37 Normanby Rd, Mt Eden, Auckland P: 09 638 4560 | E:info@thenormanbyhotel.co.nz www.thenormanbyhotel.co.nz

True Kiwi hospitality begins here and it’s a great place to be for informal gatherings with family, work colleagues, and friends.

The Normanby Hotel is perfect for business meetings, seminars and team building events, so you can get on with business without the formality.

The 52 inch TV allows all your group to see presentations, the interior is beautifully finished in an older style consistent with a bygone era and is very welcoming, especially when the tantalising smell of their superb meals reaches your senses. The menu will definitely impress.

It’s a popular place for company events, club and association meetings, private parties, weddings and other special functions. Add your own unique touches to the décor or just turn up and enjoy the charming rustic décor the hotel has on offer.

The hotel’s hospitable staff pride themselves on delivering a refreshingly attentive and unpretentious service for all your guests.

Normanby Hotel is located just five minutes from Auckland’s CBD, has an abundance of car parking and combines indoor and outdoor areas depending on the size and type of event being planned.

The expansive deck area is highlighted by a large schist fire place, outdoor tables and bench seats perfect for groups, and bathed in all day sunshine. Inside two large and extremely cosy schist fire places, sit among displays of Mt Eden heritage, including historical artefacts and anecdotes from yesteryear.

If an interactive team activity is required there’s no shortage of options here also.

Owner Joseph O’Reilly, with five years teaching physical education and 10 years experience running corporate events and team development programmes, has plenty of fun suggestions to entertain your group.

Such activities are great as an add-on to a company seminar or meeting and Joseph, with the aid of his event coordinators, will professionally facilitate your team building or entertainment activities for you and your group.

The Normanby Hotel 37 Normanby Road, Mt Eden T (09) 638 4560 E info@thenormanbyhotel.co.nz www.thenormanbyhotel.co.nz — Advertising Feature

46 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Business Development | Conferences/Business Meetings

Professional speakers - a cost or an investment?

I’ve only got 350 words to get something off my chest so here goes.

If you want to improve your company’s performance through staff learning new skills, then have your business conference in the location which is the most cost effective.

In your boardroom is good. Don’t go to some exotic island and spend a fortune only to have no money left to invest in speakers.

A speaker is not a “cost” a speaker is an “investment”.

I get to work on approximately 200 to 250 conferences a year in New Zealand and as far away as Alaska. I’ve been doing this now since 1994 that’s more than 3,500 conferences.

Why do companies have conferences so far away from their core workforce? It’s OK if times are buoyant - maybe as a perk let’s go

The trend today worldwide is to bring in effective business speakers who can make a difference and not just because times are tough. This should be the criteria all the time.

Speakers like John Anderson, founder of Contiki, Murray Thom, New Zealand entrepreneur of the decade, or Michael Hill on building a global brand. Learn from the people who have done it.

And before you book a speaker or trainer, determine what you wish to correct or achieve. And please, please don’t leave it to the receptionist to “find a speaker”.

Michael Hill on building a global brand

John Anderson, founder of Contiki

<

Squandering money to impress clients just doesn’t work any more. They see you spending their money - and so do your staff.

A speaker is an investment! Let’s get that straight. If by having a speaker it will not improve your bottom line then why have one?

Spend the money on a bar tab.

<

If you can’t get a return on investment from the speaker then don’t have one. And if you’re trying to impress clients, then be aware that they need to get a return on their time.

to Hawaii or somewhere exotic - in which case why have a speaker at all. Let the location be the focus.

The speaker is the most important decision for any conference.

Article supplied by Speakers Direct, a New Zealand company who finds the most appropriate speaker for your requirements.

For more information call (09) 537 5375, or visit www.speakers.co.nz

<

Murray Thom, New Zealand entrepreneur

Why it’s important to use a conference organiser Finding and organising a conference that meets your specific requirements can be time consuming and frustrating.

• Listens to what you want. Each company and conference has different requirements.

• Incorporates all requirements. Activities, guest speakers, transport etc.

• Cares. Has a real desire to make your Getting the venue, accommodation and other conference a success. details right contributes so much to the overall success of your conference. Your conference represents a significant investment by your Corporate Venues does all this – and it’s a company and it is so vital to get everything FREE SERVICE (conditions apply). right for you.

Our company really want to make a A conference organiser saves you a lot of difference. Ring for a no obligation chat. time and stress by finding the perfect venue for you and assisting in getting all the details together for a great conference.

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing your conference organiser:

NO FEE

When we organise your conference* Specialises in conferences held in NZ, Australia and the Pacific

www.corporatevenues.co.nz

A fast, free, knowledgeable and friendly service Successfully organising for over 10 years.

Our objective is to provide you with an EFFICIENT and FREE service to assist you when you are organising your next conference, incentive, team building, sales meeting, roadshow workshop etc.

With our extensive expertise in conference organising we will find you the best deal that works for you Ph: 021 1650355 | Fax: +64-9-6306661 | E: meet@corporatevenues.co.nz

• Knowledge of venues. We all know we can’t rely on the internet to show us the details that are important to the running of a successful conference.

• Keeps up to date with venues. A change of ownership etc can change the standards of the venues.

• Negotiates good rates.

• Works within your budget. There is a venue for every budget.

• Honest appraisal. You need no surprises when you get there.

• Efficient and professional. Communication has to be efficient in order for you to meet your deadlines.

Corporate Venues 4 Golf Road Epsom Auckland 1023 M 021 165 0355 — Advertising Feature

*conditions apply

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 47

Business Development | Conferencing/Business Meetings

Island style An island of spectacular beauty, Waiheke is renowned for its award winning vineyards, unique art, stylish cafes, and stunning beaches.

The Waiheke Island Resort can accommodate up to 60 guests (on a twin share basis) and has two purpose built conference rooms on site. The property also has a tennis court, swimming pool and spa pool.

Waiheke Island Resort and Conference Centre is the island’s foremost accommodation venue. Only 35 minutes from Auckland, this unique resort is set in subtropical gardens overlooking Palm Beach with a beautiful ocean vista.

It also offers a large satellite property, The Bay at Matiatia, for larger groups of up to 120 holding gala dinners, conferences, weddings, Christmas parties and other events.

Our facilities, relaxing atmosphere, commitment to quality and outstanding customer service have made Waiheke Island Resort a popular retreat for both business, |and leisure.

The Waiheke Group offers two conference venues depending on your group’s requirements.

You can be rest assured your function will be a complete success.

Waiheke Island Resort 4 Bay Road, Palm Beach Waiheke Island T (09) 372 0011 E reservations@thewaihekegroup.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Devonport - 10 minutes and a world away Devonport’s history goes back a long way, yet it’s still Auckland’s best kept secret.

where morning teas and lunches can be left for those wanting to work through with only the shortest breaks. Larger teams still can be catered for in the main function room.

If you want a large venue, go downtown, but for conferences involving small groups tasked with strategic planning, team building, sales development and the like, Devonport is the right place.

Popular these days are team building exercises which can be structured, or simply an opportunity for the team to spend time together in an environment outside the office.

The historic Esplanade Hotel built in 1903 is a distinctive setting where delegates from Auckland feel they are out of town, yet do not have to waste time travelling somewhere else.

Arrive from downtown by ferry in 10 minutes to a refreshing and laid back environment, or by car, where Devonport boasts plenty of free parking - something Kiwis like. Out of towners can enjoy Devonport’s seaside village atmosphere and take the ferry to downtown if they want a taste of the big smoke.

Order your favourite coffee on arrival and make your way to the Blake Suite, named after Sir Peter Blake who grew up in Devonport, where small teams can sit in front of a fireplace in winter or take breaks on a large balcony overlooking the busy Waitemata harbour.

The Grandison Penthouse, named after the hotel’s builder, Scottish born Archibald Grandison, offers a more spacious setting for groups of up to 14, complete with a kitchen

You can take a brisk walk along the waterfront and have lunch at the Naval Museum café, or walk up North Head or Mount Victoria for stunning views and a picnic lunch. The Esplanade will pack the lunches and deliver them to the top.

Towards the end of the day when thinking slows down, The Esplanade offers a drink in the bar with nibbles for delegates as an alternative to afternoon tea at the same price - a popular option where business talk can carry on and wind down.

For more intensive sessions, overnight accommodation is available at special conference rates including a full breakfast.

Let the past inspire your future planning in Devonport at The Esplanade Hotel.

The Esplanade Hotel 1 Victoria Road Devonport T (09) 445 1291 E reservations@esplanadehotel.co.nz — Advertising Feature

www.esplanadehotel.co.nz

Largest accommodation and conference provider • Accommodation for up to 60 guests • 2 purpose-built conference rooms, Swimming Pool, Spa Pool and Tennis Court

Reservations Phone: 09 3720011 Email: reservations@thewaihekegroup.co.nz Web: www.waihekeresort.co.nz

Stunning views over Palm Beach – 5 min walk to the beach

THE ESPLANADE HOTEL FOR A BUSINESS MEETING TO REMEMBER Historic, Boutique, in Devonport village.

10 minutes by ferry to the city Ideal for seminars, meetings and small conferences.

C H A R AC T E R, C H A R M, AT M O S P H E R E. Great food & Personalised Service!

Excellent food, outstanding service

-R Knildson, USA

Fabulous hotel! Wonderful Location

- F&B Bryant, Ireland

Ph 09 445 1291 | E functions@esplanadehotel.co.nz | 1 Victoria Road, Devonport, Auckland

48 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Your Appliance World Appliance technology has evolved to suit consumer needs and the appliances we have today are intuitive, intelligent and innovative, and worlds away from the archaic practices of our ancestral counterparts.

We are light years ahead of old school chemical refrigeration techniques, clothing wringers or even cumbersome vacuum cleaners. The appliances that play an integral role in the day to day running of our households are smart and sleek.

Our fast paced households benefit from the best of the best when it comes to appliances and Appliance World is at the helm of technological revolutions in household necessities.

B&B Appliance World has a long and respected history in Auckland. Its current owners and operators, Bill Bush and Brian Barnett, bought the business eight years ago off the previous owners who were moving into retirement.

Between them, the two business partners have been able to inject more than 60 years of experience into taking the business to new heights.

“We are both born and bred Kiwis, Brian and I, and we have both been in the electrical appliance industry for a long time,” Bill says.

“This experience has enabled us to acquire a lot of knowledge and know how when it comes to the products and the day to day running of the business. We are participating in an incredibly competitive market, so this experience is critical,” he adds.

Today, there are three key staff in the Appliance World business – appliance amigos you could say, who are working closely with each other to make the business stand out from the competition in a frantically busy marketplace.

Stocking all of the major domestic brands including Fisher and Paykel, Parmco, Omega, Simpson and Panasonic, Appliance World offers new and second hand appliances including washing machines, dryers, cooktops, ovens, fridge freezers, vacuum cleaners and dryers, as well as spare parts for most of the leading brands.

Both divisions play an integral role in the business and keep not only the Auckland market, but also the rest of New Zealand, well stocked with quality appliances.

Customers come first Appliance World is always looking to expand its horizons and improve its offering. Consistent service and quality is the company’s professional forte.

Everything that the Appliance World business offers is housed under one roof. There is a showroom, which showcases both sides of the business’ offering. Half the space is dedicated to parts and half hosts its new and second hand appliances.

Good advice generally doesn’t come cheap or easy these days, but Appliance World has flipped that challenge on its head and is committed to providing comprehensive support and advice for parts or products.

The business is proud to offer spare parts that its competitors do not supply and has built its second hand appliance business on reliability, authenticity and trust. “We give all the second hand products we sell a full warranty.

“We know our industry inside out. If people aren’t confident about what they are doing if they are fixing something themselves, we are always happy to give advice. Our customer service is very strong and that is why we get a lot of repeat and referral business.

“This warranty is important because it helps give our customers confidence that what we are selling and what they are investing in, has been rebuilt properly and we have done it right from the start.”

“Our customers keep coming back and a lot of our regular customers recommend us to their family or friends.

Appliance World has had some of its customers for more than 25 years.”

Appliance World is one of the few businesses that has not let a busy trade compromise its excellence customer service. It is sensitive to how busy its customers are, so offers a phone-in or email service for parts and products. “It takes a lot of time for someone to get in their car and drive around Auckland to find what they are looking for.

“With that in mind we offer our customers the opportunity to email us in a picture of their appliance and we can work out what they need in the way of parts if that is what they are looking for. They can also give us a call to describe what they are looking for and we can help them that way too.

“We also deliver and install our appliances on the same day.

If a customer rings us up, we have a delivery person ready and able to deliver and install that day – he is able to cover all bases.”

Brands • FISHER & PAYKEL

• ELECTROLUX

• HOOVER

• SIMPSON

• HAIER

• CHAMPION

• WESTINGHOUSE

• ROBINHOOD

• SMEG

• SHACKLOCK

• ASKO

• CLASSIQUE

• KELVINATOR

• DISHLEX

• BAUMATIC.

Betta by far In keeping with their commitment to bettering the business, Bill and Brian have got Betta Electrical on board.

Betta Electrical not only has one of the catchiest jingles out, it’s got the goods to live up to an excellent and very high profile. It is a New Zealand owned and operated company stocking the best brands and now has a presence at Appliance World.

Like Appliance World, Betta Electrical upholds key values - honesty and integrity, exceptional customer service and comprehensive product knowledge.

The Appliance World – Betta Electrical alliance is the perfect professional pairing and one that Bush is particularly proud of.

“Part of having a Betta Electrical presence at Appliance World is about making our business even stronger. It is a fantastic brand, a well run, New Zealand owned and operated company, and we are very proud of this relationship.”

Products and services • Vacuum cleaner bags • Dishwashers • Oven and cooktops • Clothes dryers • Home appliances & parts • Refrigeration • Washing machines • Appliance repairs & appliance service • Secondhand appliances.

T (09) 528 5555 F (09) 528 5576 E bill@applianceworld.co.nz www.appliancespareparts.co.nz

Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Geoff Thomas

Calling it like it is

Geoff Thomas doesn’t suffer fools and tells it like it is.

He’s also got a great ‘bullshit’ detector and that’s a super likeable quality because he doesn’t blow smoke up anyone’s proverbial. His un-airbrushed view of the way things are makes for a great laugh about topics which, let’s just say, wouldn’t be the politically correct caucuses’ cup of tea.

Geoff has got quite the breath-of-freshair combination going on in a world over populated by unapologetic sycophants and unproductive busy bodies.

without even the slightest pause for contemplation, that his most important and favourite job, is parenting his kids Lisa, Sally, Jenny, Paul and Katie.

But don’t be thinking he is a grouch or a grinch. He’s just, well… good value and there’s no if, buts or maybes about it.

Given that he’s not the ‘baby kissing’ kind, it’s not hard to believe it when he says that’s the pure and honest truth.

Just call him Jack Geoff, aka Jack of all trades, is a world class fisherman, a great storyteller (he’s written columns for Africa – figuratively speaking) and he’s a damn good producer because of what he’s capable of and not because he’s constantly got his hand in the state broadcasting cookie jar.

But if you ask Geoff what his most important job’s been to date, he’ll tell you, immediately,

Whangaroa Harbour The Far North

Geoff’s wife, Victoria, passed away in 2005 and he’s open about how strong his relationship with his children is. It is feel good stuff; it really is.

“I lost Victoria eight years ago and truth is, I’m a housewife most of the time. Actually, I’d be quite happy to do that all of the time and do nothing else. Victoria and I had a, well, long ‘spawning season’ I guess you could say. We started young and finished late. Our oldest is 44 and our youngest is 20. They’re more important than anything else.”

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50 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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If you haven’t reached the conclusion already, we’ll help get you there - Geoff Thomas is a bloody legend through and through. And if you’re not convinced, we’ve made it our duty to convince you.

So, here are just some of the many reasons why we’re right He’s been challenged in perpetuity by, but successfully circumvented, the Sisyphean task of securing state broadcasting funds for his show Rheem Outdoors with Geoff. Admirably, he’s funded it all himself by securing some commercial heavy weights.

For you Geoff Thomas newbies, the show is a fishing phenomenon; it’s the one that has Kiwi blokes green with envy as they fantasise about quitting their nine to fives for just one day in Geoff’s shoes. You can catch it on TV3 on Saturday’s from 5.30pm.

He’s done what he’s done through that oftcoined but seldom practised endeavour of hard work. He’s shed the blood, sweat and tears, which are all a prerequisite if you want to make it, before you break it.

“We do 25 shows a year. We must have the smallest production company out – I’ve got no secretary, no phone – only a mobile. I put the shows together at night after filming. Without exaggeration, I could put together a whole series for the cost of one network show,” he says.

He’s a modern day hunter gatherer - the bloke-iest of blokes and we can never have enough of those. “Hunting and fishing is part of the greatest tradition in this country and how many of us out there grew up living and passing on that tradition? Most of us.”

He’s a realist. “You know, a lot of people think I’ve got the dream job and in many respects, I think I do. I stand by the fact that life isn’t ‘the rehearsal’, so you’ve gotta make every day a good one. On the other hand, if your till doesn’t ring, then you don’t eat.”

He lives on a staple diet of humble pie. “What I love most about my job is the people I meet – they make it interesting. When I disappear into the high country, the people I come across are fascinating. New Zealand is full of fascinating people.”

Takes one to know one is what we’d say to that.

“

We live in the best country in the world and it’s a crying shame so many kids are missing out on that. We’re going to teach them about the outdoors – get them catching and cooking their own meals.

”

He’s unreservedly honest. “You know, I can’t remember how and when I caught my first fish. Those who say this and that about their first experience – it’s all bullshit. What I do remember is living in Pakuranga when I was growing up and biking down to catch some fish… I hadn’t discovered girls at that stage.”

He’s a damn good guy. “Doors do open for you when you’ve pushed hard. The upside of that is that I’m starting an online tackle business – gttackle.co.nz - with my boy. We’re going to start it small and build it up. We’ve been working on it for over a year.

“I’m also in the process of establishing a trust – HARK Trust for kids at risk. It’s about getting them off the asphalt and into the outdoors.

We live in the best country in the world and it’s a crying shame so many kids are missing out on that.

“We’re going to teach them about the outdoors – get them catching and cooking their own meals.”

Enough said? Bet it is.

Geoff Thomas Fishing, writing, human extradordinare and all round good guy.

T 021 821 250 E rainbow@best.net.nz — Advertising Feature

Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Hunting & Fishing NZ

All the kit to get you into

the outdoors

Hunting and Fishing New Zealand has built itself a strong national presence, with 32 stores under its banner.

With two stores in Botany and Westgate, the company’s Auckland presence is equally as sure-footed. Catering to every possible outdoor requirement, from a family camping trip to serious fishing and hunting ventures, the two stores can meet your needs.

That’s because Hunting and Fishing’s philosophy is to provide its customers with the means to pursue their passion.

Comprehensive outdoor range The first Hunting and Fishing store was opened by Andy Tannock in Palmerston North in 1986, with 32 stores now located throughout New Zealand, including two in Auckland.

Hunting and Fishing offers a huge range of products to suit every outdoor pursuit, including hunting, fishing, camping and tramping, as well as its own range of highquality outdoor clothing designed in New Zealand to suit New Zealand conditions.

Each store is locally owned and operated, containing a well laid out selection of gear specific to the outdoor activities popular in each region.

Hunting and Fishing New Zealand in The Hub, Botany Downs, is the largest and most comprehensive Hunting and Fishing store in New Zealand, with 1400 square metres of floor space. The store has only been located at the site for two years and is stacked full of everything customers need for the outdoors.

The custom fit-out of the premises includes the use of rustic and recycled timbers to enhance the natural feel and make shopping a pleasure.

Westgate Hunting and Fishing New Zealand is located in Cabernet Crescent, Massey North, and is owned by Mike Shepherd. The store has been located at the site for 15 years and boasts a comprehensive range for all your outdoor needs. It is the only Hunting and Fishing shop serving the north and west areas of the Auckland region.

Botany store manager Ben Staessens says Hunting and Fishing has everything required for the outdoors. “We’re not just hunting and fishing; we’re also camping and tramping. In the summer we have a full family camping and tramping range and all the accessories.”

Auckland is a unique environment for a specialist Hunting and Fishing store, with a huge saltwater fishery on both the east or west coast within an hour’s drive for most people. Hunting big game is also accessible for those keen enough to try, while gamebird hunting is readily available and is a local tradition.

52 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Knowledgeable staff Hunting and Fishing New Zealand’s experienced owners and staff are all passionate about the outdoors and have a huge knowledge of the recreational outdoor industry.

Botany Hunting and Fishing’s co-owners, Russell Summers and Wayne Fairhurst, both have considerable experience within the fishing, camping and hunting industries, while Westgate store owner Mike Shepherd is a keen fisherman, camper and big and small game hunter.

Ben is also a keen hunter and fisherman and says all staff need to have first-hand experience of the industry. “There’s not one of us who doesn’t hunt or fish; we’re all passionate about our sport and it’s our industry,” he says.

Mike Shepherd’s team at Westgate Hunting and Fishing take every opportunity to get out there hunting or fishing to increase their local knowledge.

Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Hunting & Fishing NZ

The total fishing package

“

Fishing is a popular activity among Aucklanders, who are quick to make the most of the fantastic recreational facilities and products available to them.

The recreational lifestyle is huge in New Zealand when you’re talking about fishing alone.

Fishing is the most popular active sport in New Zealand, and it’s growing.

Hunting and Fishing New Zealand stocks a huge range of fishing equipment and accessories and is staffed by keen anglers, both freshwater and saltwater.

The company knows it stocks the best performing fishing equipment available, because staff get out and use the gear themselves. They attend international tackle shows to ensure they have the latest and best in stock, while they also use the buying power of Hunting and Fishing’s 32 stores nationwide to provide customers with the best value for money.

Hunting and Fishing’s stores in Westgate and Botany cover every fishing requirement and take pride in catering to their own unique customer bases.

Ben says saltwater fishing is a huge industry in Auckland. “The recreational lifestyle is huge in New Zealand when you’re talking about fishing alone. Fishing is the most popular active sport in New Zealand, and it’s growing.”

The Westgate and Botany Hunting and Fishing stores have a dedicated fly fishing section and a comprehensive range of saltwater fishing gear, covering everything from beach to the boat and from kids’ starter sets to game gear.

Growth in family camping New Zealanders are increasingly turning to outdoor pursuits and camping holidays as life becomes busier and more expensive.

Ben says in the past three years there has been a huge increase in families going camping. “People are getting more into the outdoor lifestyle. We find that with everyone having less time, they’re making their free available time more valuable to them.

They’re making the most of when they do have free time, especially with families going camping.

“Since the recession, not as many people are going overseas for a holiday for Christmas and New Year. The Kiwi camping trip has come back with a vengeance over the last three years. It’s transferring into the younger market as well. We all look forward to that family camping trip over the Christmas-New Year period.”

Hunting and Fishing New Zealand stocks only the leading camping and tramping brands and offers a wide range of camping and tramping products.

- Ben Staessens

Hunting Ben says hunting is also incredibly popular with the Botany and Westgate stores’ customer bases.

Hunting and Fishing stocks one of New Zealand’s most comprehensive ranges of hunting rifles, shotguns and air rifles, as well as all the accessories needed to succeed.

”

Hunting and Fishing offers a range of freshwater fishing products and accessories, including: • Trout trolling • Freshwater spin • Fly fishing • Salmon fishing • Vests and wading jackets • Waders and shoes • Fishing nets • Fly lines • Spin baits • Life jackets • Tackle boxes.

The Botany store offers an extensive hunting section and has a designated gun room, which stocks more than 200 firearms on display, including rifles, shotguns and air rifles, with a purpose built air rifle range where customers can test fire a rifle before making a purchase.

Several brands and models are exclusive to Hunting and Fishing and are factory direct imports. Hunting and Fishing also stocks a comprehensive used firearm inventory.

The Westgate store also has a dedicated gun room with an extensive range of new firearms on display, as well as a range of second-hand guns. Mike has completed his Remington armourer’s ticket in the United States and test fired this year’s Hunting and Fishing new release, the Remington Versmax Sportsman shot gun.

Hunting and Fishing’s saltwater fishing product range covers:

Ben says duck and deer shooting equipment is popular at this time of the year.

The company’s latest catalogue is due out in early March, with new items continually being released.

• Puka/deep water • Saltwater soft bait

6.5” NEMESIS

• Surfcasting • Saltwater kayak

‘BIG BAIT, BIG FISH’

• Mechanical jigging

PER PACKET 5 BAITS

• Saltwater general purpose • Saltwater boat combos

Camo

• Game fishing

Pink Shine

• Baitrunner combos

Pearl Watermelon

• Boating accessories • Baits, lines and lures.

THE MOST ACCURATE “AUTO PILOT” KONTIKI EVER The only one to go where you point it!

Blue Pepper Neon Nuclear Chicken

Designed and tested in NZ to catch our fish

“The Gun for New Zealand Conditions

Compact and accurate Howa Stainless-steel action with 20” Barrel threaded (for suppressor) fitted to a non-slip Hogue stock is a great all-rounder for whatever you hunt.

Proudly supporting Hunting and Fishing Phone: (07) 543 0266 sales@seahorse.net.nz www.seahorse.net.nz

$999.99 H&F price

As a bonus when you buy from Hunting and Fishing we’ll include bases/rings and a Nikko-Stirling Diamond 3-9x40 scope. Available in 223R, 243W, 7mm08, 308W and 270W (22” barrel)

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 53

Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Hunting & Fishing NZ Hunting and Fishing New Zealand stocks only top quality camping and tramping gear, including: • Tents and shelters • Bedding and sleeping bags • Camping furniture • GPS/Epirb/Radios • Packs and bags • Lighting • Cookware and coolers • Knives, compasses and multi-tools • Walking poles.

A complete catalogue Hunting and Fishing New Zealand customers can receive the company’s comprehensive catalogue free of charge if they register online to receive it.

The Hunting and Fishing catalogue comes out three times a year and is believed to be the most widely read outdoors and sporting publication in New Zealand.

Receiving the catalogue ensures customers are kept up to date with new techniques and the largest gear, as well as any hot deals that are going.

54 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

A great shopping experience Providing excellent customer service is a core focus of Hunting and Fishing New Zealand, which also offers online sales of its complete range.

Hunting and Fishing delivers a great experience due to the atmosphere in-store and the knowledge of its passionate staff and has been judged by the public (Roy Morgan Research) as providing the best customer service in the country in the Sports Store of the Year awards.

Pride and care is also taken in regards to merchandising, display fitout and the theme and presentation of each store.

“Our customer service is a big point of difference, as well as our huge range of stock,” Ben says.

The national Hunting and Fishing Group has recently launched its new website, www. huntingandfishing.co.nz, which offers almost every product for sale. “We do a lot of online sales and it’s a growing part of our business,” Ben says.

Hunting and Fishing’s customer base includes everyone from single women who enjoy recreational fishing and tramping through to families and serious hunters and fishers.

“We appeal to anyone who does any outdoor activities.”

Clothing and footwear Hunting and Fishing New Zealand in Botany and Westgate stock a wide range of outdoor clothing under its own Hunting and Fishing

label. “It’s our brand and it is designed in New Zealand to specifically cater to the New Zealand market,” Ben says.

Clothing is available for men, women and children and includes jackets, tops, pants and shorts, thermal wear and clothing packs.

The Hunting and Fishing New Zealand boot selection is a complementary range covering everything from basic hiking boots through to rugged alpine boots. All have passed a rigorous selection process to ensure they contain superior features and represent excellent value for their respective price points.

In addition, lifestyle, fishing and casual footwear is stocked over the appropriate seasons. A variety of waders are available at competitive prices.

Botany Hunting and Fishing New Zealand 5 Te Koha Road East Tamaki Manukau T (09) 271 4421 E botanyhuntfish@xtra.co.nz www.huntingandfishing.co.nz Westgate Hunting and Fishing New Zealand 7 Cabernet Crescent Westgate T (09) 833 3019 E mikeshuntfish@xtra.co.nz www.huntingandfishing.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Electrics Afloat

Wired for

work, rest and play

Located in the heart of Westhaven, Electrics Afloat specialises in all aspects of marine electrical installations, design, maintenance, refits, sales and service.

The company is recognised as a market leader in marine electrical work, servicing all sizes of marine vessels from the toys of the mega-rich, super yachts, to the vital commercial boats manning Auckland and Manukau harbour, down to trailer boats.

Electrics Afloat Limited was founded in 1986 by husband and wife team Warren and Jan Tait who continue to work in the business today.

Commercial boats Electrics Afloat carries out work on a wide variety of busy commercial boats that require a quick turn around to minimise down time and additionally the maintenance of these vessels is essential to reduce the risk of any ill timed faults occurring at sea.

100% KIWI OWNED & OPERATED

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– CCTV

• New installations • Sales and services • Maintenance and repairs

Expertise is an essential prerequisite for an Electrics Afloat employee as Warren Tait himself oversees the quality of workmanship that he has based his company on for more than 25 years.

• Electrical maintenance programme.

The company motto is a self explanatory indicator to the attitude Warren has instilled in his team.

• Refits

Connecting precision to perfection since 1986 Electrics Afloat assisted the water police in the design and electrical fit out of the Deodar II, after the Deodar I sunk in 1989 after being rammed by a boat while coming into port. The Deodar II was launched on November 2, 1992 with electrical designs executed professionally

by Electrics Afloat.

Although the company wasn’t involved in the design of the Deodar III, it still has the maintenance and repair contract in place for the vessel and other smaller craft.

Ph: 09 414 6022 E: peter@ksimpson.co.nz

PROUD SUPPORTERS OF ELECTRICS AFLOAT www.integratedmarinegroup.com

56 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

• Design and consultation

Warren Tait ensures the integrity of his electrical work as the company only employs the best marine electricians.

All Electrics Afloat technicians are qualified and skilled in their field to reassure the customer that only the best workmanship will be afforded to their project.

WHOLESALE ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES SINCE 1946

Services

Ports of Auckland has and always will be a pivotal maritime nucleus and according to www.police.govt.nz ‘A third of the region’s activity depends upon, or is facilitated through the ports - that’s approximately $10.6 billion’.

Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Electrics Afloat

In terms of craft, Auckland is home to about 100,000 vessels for work or recreation, which equates to almost half of the nation’s total vessels.

Electrics Afloat plays an integral role in the day to day running of the Ports of Auckland with technicians on hand to repair and maintain the heads (both Auckland and Manukau), and the buoys and beacons that play an important role in ensuring the safety of the boats that both inhabit or pass through our waters.

Unseen maintenance, such as replacing or maintaining solar panels and batteries on channel markers, can be the difference between a vessel docking safely or running aground. Channel markers are the marine equivalent to runway lights in the aviation world.

Even Bean Rock, the iconic Auckland lighthouse, is regularly maintained by Electrics Afloat as part of its ongoing service contract with the Ports of Auckland. This service contract encompasses the tug boats, pilot boats and survey boats operating within the busy Port.

Super yachts The super yacht industry is accountable for a large proportion of Electrics Afloat’s refit and repair work as the company services a number of foreign flagged vessels. Foreign flagged vessels, especially super yachts, are often registered abroad in areas such as the Seychelles, a common haunt for the floating wealthy. A super yatch is the ultimate ‘big boy’s toy’.

“A private jet is merely the mode of transport to get to these super yachts. They are the ultimate luxury item and a very prestigious one at that,” Warren says.

Although the commissioning of new builds within the super yacht fraternity has declined with the economic recession, Warren decided to diversify his business to focus mainly on refits, while those who were reliant on new builds found it hard to succeed in a suppressive economic downturn.

This adaptability has guided Electrics Afloat through the global financial crisis and better times appear to be on the horizon.

Another outside influence that captures the public interest on the water is the highly sought after America’s Cup. “Hopefully we win the America’s Cup again; that kind of success impacts on the nautical scene significantly.”

“The recent news of the largest super yacht in the world being launched, Azzam, has

After its successful 1995 campaign, in 2000 Team New Zealand became the first country

As Roman Abramovich, the Russian billionaire and famous owner of Chelsea football club has found out at his own expense, the super yacht industry is a fiercely competitive market. His previous boat, the Eclipse, was the largest on the planet until the 163.5m long Azzam was recently floated in Bremen, Germany, at an approximate cost of $850 million.

The cost of up-keeping these floating palaces is huge and as they are often on the move. It is companies such as Electrics Afloat that keep all electrical functionality running smoothly.

www.oramsmarineservices.co.nz

outside of the United States to successfully defend the cup.

This success forged a sterling reputation for New Zealand as a country for producing world class boat design and manufacture. The impact of such a reputation was felt within the marine industry as orders flooded in from intrigued boat owners (and prospective boat owners), who wanted the prestige of having a boat built in the America’s Cup winners’ back yard.

City Rewinds Limited www.cityrewinds.co.nz

Diesel Servicing

manufacturers of labels & signage

ENGINES & GENSETS

3a/85 Onehunga Mall, Onehunga, Auckland kentergraph.co.nz

(09) 625 4219

09 303 9999

renewed the vigour in our industry. News on this scale travels fast and we could be looking at a new wave of interest in the luxury marine industry.”

industrial

marine

commercial

architectural

Engineering WELDING & FABRICATION

Auckland’s Electric Motor Repair Specialists 30 year’s service to the marine and industrial industry

Congratulations to Electrics AFloat for over 26 years in business

Installation 156 Beaumont St Westhaven, Auckland

Ph: 09 358 2050 E: info@whitingpower.com

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www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 57

Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Electrics Afloat

A successful run in San Francisco this year could be just the economic/confidence injection the marine industry is so craving and with the AC72 boat looking efficient and impressive during trials, it’s safe to say the eyes of New Zealand and of the world will be watching the race closely with bated breath.

“In the late 90s and early 2000s the marine industry was booming. Electrics Afloat had grown to a team of 22 with sub contractors to cover the extremely busy periods, yet the decline seemed to be in direct correlation to the loss of the America’s Cup. It’s a global flag bearer for New Zealand boat-building,” Warren says.

Benefits of an electrical maintenance programme for marina and trailer boats • Increased safety • Peace of mind • More leisure time • Regular reporting of the vessels condition • Less maintenance for the owner • Extended life of expensive on board systems • Service history • Full back up of qualified technicians • Special buying powers through the showroom.

A solid team of 11 now operates on the ground for Electrics Afloat as the company still aims to attract some of the most luxurious boats to New Zealand, despite the high New Zealand dollar and inconvenient geographical location in terms of America and European boats.

“It is a long way to travel for some of these boats, but we have the quality in our ranks to make it worthwhile and there are still plenty of wealthy owners out there who want their boats serviced by the best.”

Commitment to excellence Warren Tait’s unwavering approach to high standards has filtered down to his staff.

The crew regularly attends seminars and training sessions on a wide range of electrical disciplines to maintain their status as industry leaders with their finger firmly on the pulse of modern technology.

With technicians skilled in a multitude of electrical areas, from fitters to military ship experience, generator engineering and

control, high voltage and power station control to automotive and electronics technicians, their skill set is certainly vast.

The 332sqm workshop facility is conveniently located in the heart of the New Zealand marine precinct, Westhaven. Included in the premises is a 140sqm purpose built workshop allowing for unparalleled capacity to build and service any type of equipment or plant.

The showroom is now divided between the marine portion of the business and the newly created residential arm of Tait’s company Electrics and Lighting. In another example of thinking on one’s feet, Tait is utilising the wide range of experience and service his company can provide to capture a segment of the high end residential market in Auckland.

While the showroom remains the visual aspect of the business, the industrial nucleus is certainly located in the workshop, which houses a high tech AutoCAD drawing facility enabling Electrics Afloat to design or modify electrical drawings, preliminary designs, schematics and build documentation for all internationally recognised marine classifications.

Electrics Afloat has completed more than 11 new build projects from world renowned naval architects as well as some 55 refits and modernisation programmes from well known boat yards.

The company’s impeccable reputation, combined with a dedication to providing quality and consistency for every customer, has led Electrics Afloat to become a diverse, flexible company with strong foundations and obvious scope to grow as the economic tides change.

09 379 7958 Fax: 379 9041 Email: eal@electricsafloat.co.nz 19 Halsey Street, Westhaven, Auckland

www.electricsafloat.co.nz

58 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Electrics Afloat

LAMP SPECIALISTS LTD

Luxury residential lighting The residential and commercial division of Electrics Afloat operates under the same quality banner as its father company, even abiding by a remarkably similar and comforting motto of ‘Harmonising Precision to Perfection’.

Low voltage marine & rv leds

Warren’s ability to adapt to the ever changing electrics market has thrust his company into the land based, luxury home sector ideal for Auckland’s high end, property conscious clientele.

With aesthetics and functionality at the forefront of all Electrics and Lighting’s work, it is only expected that it would use the best the market has to offer and Tait believes Vimar, an Italian designed and manufactured modular control system, is the best on offer.

A quick visit to the www.electricsandlighting. co.nz website offers a glimpse into the sleek world of class offered with a Vimar home control system. The online catalogue gives glimpses of the luxurious, fully integrated interiors often associated with upmarket hotels and five star establishments.

The realisation that such prestigious products are readily available from Electrics and Lighting, a company born of electrical design seen on the world’s most luxurious super yachts, is a reassuring thought for Aucklanders looking for an renovation upgrade or a new build installation.

LED lighting Warren is championing the use of LEDs as an efficient, versatile form of lighting for modern homes. He believes the residential arm of the company will alleviate pressure from the nautical side of Electrics Afloat’s operations.

“We’ve taken some of the eggs out of the marine basket and looked at an exciting new venture and by installing only the best quality products at a fair price we see our market share increasing as the word spreads.”

Lasting up to 20 times longer than halogen lamps and up 10 times longer than fluorescent lamps, the longevity of LEDs is almost as impressive as their incredibly low energy usage.

The Vimar systems can control up to 21 modules including switches, dimmers, smoke/gas detectors, push buttons, timers, clocks, coax outlets, phone outlets and many more options.

Their easy of control is unsurpassed, as is the aesthetic appeal. As the company website states, Vimar offers a look that is distinguished by its elegance and refinement.

And it seems whether on water or dry land, elegance, style, professionalism and quality are always high on the agenda for Warren and his dedicated team at Electrics Afloat and now at Electrics and Lighting.

Why not give Warren and the team a call; after all, they service the residential, the commercial and the nautical market so there’s not much they can’t tell you about electrics.

Why LEDs? • Attractive

• Reliable

• Colour choice

• Safe to touch

• Cool operation

• Small

• Efficient

• Solid state lighting

• Long life

• Versatile

• Low current

• IP67 rated.

• Low current draw

Electrics Afloat 19 Halsey Street Westhaven Auckland T (09) 379 7958 Marine: www.electricsafloat.co.nz Electrics and Lighting: www.electricsandlighting.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Wide range of retrofit LED for marine and motor homes Also Red-white switched Multi-voltage 10-30 volts Most base types available Warm white or cool white Night vision switched (white/red) Low voltage flood lights Available from Electrics Afloat and Lamp Specialists Ltd Contact : North Shore 57c Hillside Rd Glenfield, Auckland Ph: 09-444 2297 Penrose 35c Maurice Road Penrose, Auckland Ph: 09-636 0512

09 636 5836 www.robinsoninstruments.co.nz

www.lampspecialists.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 59

Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Formula Cruisers Capabilities

The formula for luxury

• A worldwide spare parts/service availability • A comprehensive 10 year warranty • The best personalised customer service where customer requirements are Formula Cruiser’s design instructions • Boats with advanced hull shape for great on the water performance • Boat with superbly detailed and finished interiors • Boats built by a company with both best practises and continuous improvement as core values • Member of Boating Industries Association of New Zealand, Boat Building Standards Group and Marex.

When you think luxury boats, you think decadence. And when you think luxury boats, you should also think Formula Cruisers. The name of this innovative company should get your style pulse racing fast, like the boats, which have made Formula Cruisers, or Formula, for short, synonymous with boating excellence.

Established more than 28 years ago, Formula is a privately owned New Zealand company specialising in the build of luxury motor yachts. It’s a company bringing to life intricately detailed concepts for motor yachts that are designed with their owners in mind.

Unbeatable experience Formula has an impressive history with impressive experience to boot. It made a significant transition in the eighties and early nineties – evolving from being New Zealand’s largest production launch builder (Formula 4000, 4500s) to producing larger, semi-custom boats.

Today, Formula has more than 250 years experience in its team and its range has diversified to include refit projects and builds of custom projects for external designers.

“Our range now includes a production power cat (Prowler 10.4), and our semi-custom ICON

provide inspiration and educated knowledge to ensure great builds, while providing opportunities for its clients to exercise their own artistic license.

range of fly bridge cruisers and sports fishers including the ICON 42, 54, 58 and larger,” general manager Troy Woods reveals.

Formula competes both locally and internationally with a number of established production builders as well as smaller custom builders.

The company has established a strong presence across the ditch with approximately 80 percent of its boats being exported offshore to Australia.

“Our goal is to build the best boats possible and exceed our customers’ expectations using a dedicated team of skilled people,” Woods confirms. “We aim for absolute customer satisfaction and work with our customers to achieve their goals for every boat we build.”

Formula is a company that takes its commitment to high standards and services, seriously. It likes to keep its finger on the pulse through its Boating Industries Association of New Zealand and Boat Building Standards Group memberships.

“We have an established agency network in key states in Australia who represent us in sales and service,” Woods explains. “We established this presence in 2007/08 and have These memberships highlight the business’ since sold a number of ICON 54s and Prowler innate sense of professional accountability 10.4s into Australia, with the first ICON 42 and drive to be the best it can be. being sold into Papua New Guinea.”

Formula recently launched the latest ICON 58 model, which contrary to recent sales trends, was built for a New Zealand boat owner.

Made to measure Attention to detail is the formula of Formula you could say. The company works hard to

“We combine the benefits of production building with the freedom for individual owners to customise their boat to suit their needs.

“It sounds like a cliché, but our staff know that each boat they build is being built for someone and is a culmination of their hard work and success. It is immensely satisfying to be a part of someone’s aspirational dream,” Woods says.

The company enjoys engaging with boat owners who appreciate the Formula difference of design, quality construction and finish.

“The bulk of our customer range is made up of experienced boat owners, particularly when it comes to our ICON range. More often than not the customers who work with you have specific ideas as to how they go boating and what they want in a luxury cruiser.

“This very experienced owner has owned numerous boats over the years and came to us with a specific set of requirements. It was a challenging build, but extremely rewarding working with an owner who trusted us to find solutions to his requests and we are all very proud of the results,” Woods says.

“It features a number of firsts for a New Zealand built boat, including a triple Cummins Zeus pod drive engine system and BEP AC / DC touch screen control system.”

These phrases boggle the mind for many of us, but what they mean in a boating context is certainly not lost on luxury cruiser aficionados and fishing hobbyists and this is exactly who

Technical Equipment Supplies marine, joinery and kitchen hardware specialists www.technicalequipment.co.nz

Specialising in quality hardware and technical expertise, Technical Equipment has been supplying to the boat building, joinery, cabinet making and marine industries for over 20 years.

60 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

the company is serving and satisfying with its extensive range.

“Formula has established a reputation for building semi-custom boats for individual clients that are made to the highest quality,” Woods says.

Glenfield, Auckland P: (09) 444 9914 (09) 444 7914 F: (09) 444 5799 sales@technicalequipment.co.nz 8.30am-5.30pm Mon-Fri

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Fishing, Hunting & Boating | Formula Cruisers “They typically want and expect more than a standard production vessel in terms of quality and ownership experience. Our boats range from $370,000 NZD to $3,000,000 plus.”

In addition to the boat building side, Formula also maintains a refit and service operation. Formula Marine Service (FMS) is an independent division of Formula Cruisers and it plays this critical role.

Specialising in all manner of refit, repairs, repowering and general maintenance work, FMS operates out of Formula’s 4000 square metre base at Hobsonville in Auckland and services include a purpose built, temperature controlled paint spray booth able to take boats up to 60 feet, as well as ample under cover storage.

The company has a complete range of qualified tradesmen in-house including naval architects, boat builders, engineers, electricians, cabinetmakers, plumbers, painters and CAD staff.

Cruising through challenges With no pun intended, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing for Formula; with extenuating factors challenging the organisation in the way they challenge any commercially competitive organisation.

The high New Zealand dollar wreaking havoc on exports, coupled with the expected challenges any business faces when it sets up off-shore, has proved challenging for the business.

But Formula’s strategic thinking has countered these challenges every step of the way. “We have reduced the number of build man hours while retaining our market leading standards of quality and customer service through the use of lean principles,” Woods says.

“It is has been of the utmost importance to us to retain key staff who know the business inside out.”

In addition to employing smart business principles to overcome these challenges, Formula also looks for opportunities to diversify its offering. The company expanded its operation with the acquisition of Australian game boat builder Eureka Game Boats in 2010 and brought into its fold, Eureka’s highly coveted, Eureka 42 model.

the versatility to suit whatever you choose to do on the water.

Two distinct twin cabin layouts provide accommodation for up to seven adults with the saloon and galley sized to match. Both layouts include a dinette and separate settee, cherry timber interior, separate fridge and freezer, microwave / convection oven and plenty of storage space. High specifications include generator, air conditioning, inverter and CZONE central DC monitoring and control system; the ICON 42 delivers more, for less.

ICON 58 Hull Length: 58’ Length overall: 62’ Beam 18’ 7” Draft (Full) 5’ Displacement (medium ship) 26,000 kg

Prowler 10.4 Power Cat

Fuel Capacity 4000 - 5000 litres

Length of hull 10.8 m 35’ 5”

Water Capacity 1000 litres

Beam 4.8 m 15’ 8”

Top Speed* 32 - 35 knots.

Draft 0.4 m 1’ 6”

A development of the successful ICON 54, the 58 is a highly customisable model with options galore. Whether it is hard-core sports fishing, family cruising or extended coastal voyaging, the ICON 58 has a layout and equipment specification to suit.

Displacement 4000 kg

• Cockpit extensions

Fuel 500 litres

• Teak deck repairs and installation

Water 400 litres

• Painting

Top Speed 20 knots.

• Engine services, repairs and replacement

Available with either shaft or pod drives; the layout can be either a three or four-cabin arrangement including the option of a full width master suite. Internal stairs deliver you to the enclosed fly bridge with either a forward or aft helm arrangement to suit.

Convert the settee to a double bed for an additional guest or skippers cabin, put the kids upstairs to watch a movie, or relax and watch the sunset - the choice is yours. The cockpit includes a raised al fresco dining area separate from the huge main cockpit - a magnificent performer both at sea and at anchor.

Formula Marine Services offers: • Boat building repairs and maintenance • Hard top additions

The Prowler NZ 10.4 redefines modern boating and provides a combination of exceptional performance, economy, volume and value.

• Electrical and electronics supply, design and servicing • Cabinet making.

The Prowler NZ 10.4’s standard layout offers two double staterooms, both with ensuites and the addition of an extra single berth in each cabin provides extra sleeping capacity or storage when needed. The U shaped galley includes a gas / electric under bench fridge / freezer, oven, four burner hob, sink, and ample bench space.

On top of that, the incredible comfort provided both at sea and anchor, means the Prowler NZ 10.4 is the perfect weekender, extended coastal cruiser or charter vessel.

The comfortable saloon is complimented by the alfresco cockpit seating area, complete with sink, insulated icebox and gas barbecue.

Carefully designed to provide maximum use of space, the result is a boat with an enormous amount of room when compared to a similar length monohull.

Formula Cruisers Hanger 3 Hudson Bay Road Hobsonville Air Base Hobsonville Auckland T (09) 416 4836 E troy@formulacruisers.com www.formulacruisers.com

Powered by twin 60 hp 4-stroke outboards, the Prowler NZ 10.4 provides exceptional fuel economy, with the slender hulls cutting through the waves and offering a ride so smooth it is hard to believe the ocean has waves.

Renamed the ICON 42, this model can be built as either a purpose designed game boat, or a comfortable family cruiser with layout and engine options to suit. It has been part of the Formula family since March 2010 when the first construction began at Formula’s Auckland factory.

— Advertising Feature

For Formula’s future Woods says the business is committed to further refining its build processes to reduce production hours and improve efficiencies. “We will also be working hard to expand our sales across the current range and increase sales of custom projects.”

Key models ICON 42 Hull Length: 42’ 12.86 m Length overall: 43’ 6” 13.3 m Beam 14’ 11” 4.55 m Draft (Full) 3’ 6” 1.1 m Displacement (medium ship) 14,000 kg Fuel Capacity 2500 litres Water Capacity 500 litres Top Speed* 32 knots.

The new Formula ICON 42 is big on features as well as performance, and being available in both shaft and pod drive configurations, has

Who do Formula turn to for quality marine plywoods, veneers and light weight substrates? . . .

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Proud to supply Upholstery and Covers to Formula Cruisers Specialising in all aspects of Marine Upholstery and Covers from concept to completion • New Work • Refurbishment • New Covers

• Repairs • Professional Advice • Quality Guaranteed

Call or visit us for a free consultation Unit 5/61 View Road, Wairau Valley North Shore E: totaltrim@clear.net.nz Phone: (09) 441 6159

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www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 61

Transport & Motoring | Manukau Auto & Tyre Centre

Let the guru

give your wheels a once over

Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre, established in 1986 by the mag wheel guru, Nigel Stickland is a market leader in the Auckland automotive industry. Nigel’s wealth of knowledge on his area of expertise has even resulted in a spot under television spotlights.

TV3’s Target sought the views of the Nigel, known as the mag wheel guru, to pass judgement and knowledge on second hand wheel buying. With many years in the industry, Nigel was presented with a series of probing questions surrounding the purchase of second hand wheels.

The company website www.magsandtyres. co.nz contains a link to the YouTube video of

the Auto and Tyre Centre’s moment of national coverage. Nigel warned in the interview that “one size does not fit all for mags and tyres on differing vehicles”.

Many second hand buyers often purchase cheaper, ill-fitting wheels in questionable states, under no consumer guarantee.

Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre offers a wide range of services to ensure the wheels of motion on your vehicle keep turning smoothly.

“We have a vast experience on our team, with guys in the 20s through to their 50s, so we have plenty of sound, knowledge-based advice to pass on to the customer. We have a wide variety of services on offer here and we work with wheels of all sizes, from Hummers to mobility scooters,” Nigel says.

Mags With more than 300 mag wheels on display, ranging from 13 inch to 26 inch, there is plenty to spin any enthusiast’s wheels.

Another perk, the highly qualified and experienced team at the Auto and Tyre Centre can fit the desired mags on the spot in the fully equipped workshop while the customer browses the extensive range of accessories in store.

As one of the longest serving members of the mag and wheel and tyre industry, Nigel has the advantage of experience on his side, hence why he is the man to speak to about repairing and restoring the mags on classic vehicles.

“We have a huge range of equipment and stock plus we also carry stock from many years ago. This can be a lifesaver for someone with a classic vehicle as we may have stock that may no longer be in production.”

MANUKAU TYRE AND AUTO USE THE VERY BEST QUALITY SUSPENSION BRANDS AVAILABLE IN NEW ZEALAND

Curbed a wheel?

No worries, the Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre can: • Repair and recondition alloys • Paint alloys any colour you want • Chemical strip alloys • Polish alloys • Repair cracked and buckled rims.

Repairing mags, old or new, can drastically reduce the cost of replacing an individual wheel (a difficult enough task considering most mags are sold in sets of four). Nigel and his team of experts are trade suppliers in the field of mag wheel repairs and offer an unparalleled service to all clients.

Tyres Mags are undoubtedly the crowning jewel in the all-important wheel, yet tyres play a significant role at the industrial, working end. Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre stocks new tyres for all manner of vehicle including passenger cars, classic models high performance vehicles and 4x4s.

Tyre services • Tyre sales - new and second hand • Tyre fitting • 4 wheel alignments • Puncture repairs • Wheel balancing

62 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

• Wheel nuts and accessories.

Transport & Motoring | Manukau Auto & Tyre Centre

“

Repairs and servicing • Car servicing

“Morning Nigel. Thought I would just drop you a line to say how impressed I am with the set of Toyo Tyres your Company put on my BMW. I had another high end brand of tyre on before and they needed replacing. One of your guys suggested I try Toyos, they are a lot cheaper and in my mind a better tyre. They are quieter and wear better and have excellent road holding.

Thanks for suggesting I go for these, I highly recommend them.”

• Exhaust and mufflers • Brakes • Automatic transmission servicing • Cambelt / timing belt • Clutch • WOF. Pick from a range of new and second hand tyres and rest assured the team will honestly advise on which option best suits your budget. Tyre condition is critical for performance, as well as safety, therefore the proper checks will be undertaken to ensure the recommended tyre brand suits the vehicle and the driver’s needs.

Essential checks will be performed on the tread and tyre pressure to ensure the wheels comply with road safety regulations. Not only is driver safety paramount, but the efficiency of the whole vehicle is reduced if the tyres are under inflated, as they will inevitably consume more fuel.

So next time you consider the visuals of a new set of mags, be sure to chat with an expert at the Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre who will pass on a wealth of important knowledge about the performance and the look of your desired new wheel set up.

Mag wheel repairs

Testimonial

- Kerry, Auckland

With 25 plus years of experience in the tyre and wheel business, it’s safe to say the team at Manukau Auto knows their industry and perform all repairs, replacements and refurbishments to the highest standard of workmanship.

Their efficient, on site setup reduces the number of hours your wheels are off the road and allows all work to be carried out quickly and effectively.

The customer can drive away from the Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre with complete satisfaction and know that their work is guaranteed as long as the wheels are cared for correctly, post-repair. The fully qualified mechanics work with a fully equipped work shop to produce a fully comprehensive tyre and wheel service.

We all know that gut wrenching realisation that we have pulled too close to the curb and our wheels have born the brunt of our terrible misjudgement. Not to fear, the team at the Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre specialise in reviving and refurbishing injured mags.

For more information on wheel servicing

by Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre, visit the company website (www.magsandtyres.co.nz) for an informative Q&A on the important aspects of tyre ownership and upkeep.

While a restoration can cost between $100250 per wheel depending on damage extent and material, it is certainly cheaper than a new set of all four, or even buying a new single unit.

Be sure to search and ‘like’ Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre on Facebook to see a range of their latest jobs and a varied gallery of wheel repairs… ranging from top end Range Rovers to a mobility scooter!

One of the major benefits of using the Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre for repairs to your wheels is the fact that the team conveniently supplies loan wheels to keep the customer on the move while their repair takes place.

Servicing and repairs

With one of the most comprehensive and up to date workshops in Manukau City, there is no better place to take your vehicle for a health check. The workshop is fitted with hoists to make the under-body inspections If there appears to be a visual blemish on your quicker, safer and cost effective for wheels, then it is certainly worth taking it in the customer. (either on the car or off) to get a no obligation Qualified technicians advise of the correct free quote. And even if your wheels appear maintenance to keep vehicles in tip top fine visually, it’s also worth checking out to shape to reduce the potential repairs of major see if there is any structural damage, such as components that often fail as a result of a crack or a dangerous buckle, all generally invisible to the untrained eye. irregular servicing.

”

Servicing No matter their age, type or purpose, all motor vehicles benefit from a regular servicing. The Manukau Auto and Tyre Centre offer a range of servicing options for both petrol and diesel vehicles, completed to warranty standard by the on-site technicians.

The range of servicing options are varied and only the professionals can tell you which is best suited to the vehicle based on previous service history, the age of your vehicle and other recommendations from the driver. If you are lucky enough to live with five kilometers of the workshop, the team will pick up and drop off the vehicle for you.

Elementary care such as an oil change can greatly affect the performance of an engine, regardless of how many kilometres the car has been driven, as oil can degrade an engine and needs to be flushed and replaced.

The Shock Shop The Manukau Tyre and Auto Centre is the proud franchise holder of The Shock Shop Manukau City. With more than 25 years experience, staff at The Shock Shop are experts in all types of suspension sytems for a wide range of makes and models of vehicle.

The free shock test is certainly worth having to attain the state of your shock absorbers.

The Tronic Shock Absorber Tester is the only machine of its kind currently in New Zealand and considering the importance of maintaining healthy shocks (tyres and suspensions wear out quicker and stopping distances increase), then it’s certainly worth doing. The one stop Shock Shop covers all your shock absorbing requirements.

Services in the Shock Shop • Wheel alignment • Vehicle lowering / enhancement • Suspension repairs • Electronic shock testing • Shock absorbers • Coil springs • Suspension bushes.

Manukau Auto & Tyre Centre 32 Lambie Drive Papatoetoe Auckland T (09) 261 1500 T 0800 MAG WHEELS E sales@magsandtyres.co.nz www.magsandtyres.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Aegis Oil combines a tradition of reliable customer service with an extensive range of premium quality virgin automotive and industrial lubricants.

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Ph: 07 867 5321 | www.aegisoil.co.nz

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 63

RR Hospitality | Portofino

Classic Italian fare

down at the Viaduct

Nestled comfortably by the water’s edge of Auckland’s viaduct in the heart of the CBD, Portofino Restaurant has been serving Italian food the traditional way for more than 30 years.

entertainment, romantic meals or just have fun with friends, Portofino Restaurant Viaduct offers the perfect meal and the perfect location for any occasion.

A family owned and operated dining establishment, Portofino now offers dining establishments nationwide, with the viaduct location complemented by restaurants in Mission Bay, Parnell, Takapuna and Meadowbank, with further restaurants in New Plymouth, Taupo and Wellington, plus a Hamilton branch opening soon.

At Portofino a beautifully styled interior, crisp, elegant service and authentic Italian cuisine are served up against the backdrop of the beautiful Auckland harbour.

The Portofino brand has been offering an authentic taste of Italy since 1980. Brothers Gino and Kiro Gurshin take their reputation seriously, continuing the rich tradition of exceptional quality and service the restaurant has become renowned for.

Whether you are looking to host lazy lunches, business meetings, evenings of

“Being a family owned European business, we are passionate about our food, our wine

Providing high quality consumables to the New Zealand hospitality industry including branded/unbranded napkins, serviettes, food packaging, paper towels, cleaning supplies and toilet paper.

ASSOCIATED WITH

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64 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

The company is focused on delighting every guest with a genuine Italian dining experience. It’s all about fresh, simple, delicious Italian food, complemented by a great glass of wine, served in a comfortable, home-like Italian setting where everyone is welcomed as family and friends.

“Our purpose is hospitality; our passion is for 100 percent guest delight.”

Kiro and Gino source most of their ingredients straight from the markets every day, with other ingredients coming either locally from within New Zealand or directly from Europe.

“We operate this way because we want that authentic Italian touch combined with the wonderful products and produce you can only

Contact us for a FREE assessment of your fresh produce needs so we can help you save time, money and waste with our tailored solutions

PROUD TO BE Pleased to be associated with Portofino Restaurants

and your experience,” Gino says. “We are committed to serving consistently good quality food and great service.”

We are New Zealand’s leading supplier of whole and prepared fruit and vegetables

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find in New Zealand. We are committed to serving consistently good quality food and service and a wonderful dining experience to all our customers.”

Portofino is an unassuming restaurant located on Customs Street West. The street view offers a sight of the beautiful patio, one of the most ideal spots for a touch of alfresco dining in town.

This patio spills into a delightful dining room with vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors and bright, energetic artwork. All this adds up to a comfortable and casual environment making Portofino Viaduct a real neighbourhood favourite.

The menu changes seasonally, but favourites always seem to remain. An Italian influence is of course ever present, particularly with traditional simple pastas, lasagne and pizzas.

Hospitality | Portofino

The reviews are in Just like any dining establishment, the proof is in the pudding - so here are some tantalising testimonials.

Nicole is already looking forward to her next visit to Portofinos after a family meal at the viaduct restaurant. “I am very happy; wonderful Italian food, best service. Waiter is very happy and friendly. Wonderful place.

Will be back soon.”

Diana Felton-Thorpe was also pleased with her experience on this side of the world.

“Wow, what a great dining experience of NZ. I love the way there are crabs in the mussels

– it gives a sense of connection to the food chain. The fettuccine is superb al dente and staff are aloof – not overly gushy or fake.”

was yummy. Thanks to all the friendly and professional staff.”

Sylvia has been visiting Portofino Viaduct for a number of years and describes it as a fantastic place to eat. “Great for celebrating couples’ anniversaries and team dinners… chicken fettuccine is my favourite meal and the atmosphere is very laid back yet stylish.”

Another reviewer going by the name of Cleopatra had a “lovely” experience. “I ordered the chicken Fettuccine which was exceptional and filled all the expectations of it that I had from friends telling me it is their favourite Portofino dish. The service was great and they waited on us hand and foot.

Krista also had an enjoyable evening. “Visited Portofino at viaduct last night… got a nice table looking over harbour, atmosphere was great… good selection of Italian wines, minestrone soup was perfect and fresh fish

“Overall Portofinos is fully recommended by me and with all the options on the menu, everyone will be able to find something exactly right for their taste, no matter what it is.”

Portofino Restaurant Viaduct 13a Custom St West Viaduct Basin Auckland City T (09) 356 7080 E admin@portofino.co.nz www.portofino.co.nz — Advertising Feature

JR Wholesale Meats will customise to your requirements, provide competitive pricing and outstanding service.

Call Paul or Alex on 09 634 0597, our City & Guilds Qualified Chefs.

Fax. 09 634 7982 E. sales@jrwholesale.co.nz PO Box 13559, Onehunga, Auckland www.jrwholesale.co.nz

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 65

Hospitality | Pickles Café

A great place

to stop

Whether you are popping in for a takeaway coffee, to get lunch from the cabinet, or sitting down for a meal on one of the large leather chairs, Pickles Café is a great place to stop.

Escape the outside world and relax in modern and spacious surroundings.

Owners Andy and Jenni Fincham have long been well known for their hospitality excellence on the ‘Shore’, having previously owned Sp’getti in Browns Bay for almost 10 years.

Andy and Jenni met via the hospitality industry some 15 years ago; travelling, working and discovering they both had a passion for hospitality. On returning to New Zealand they jumped into their first venture at Sp’getti Restaurant.

They worked hard to improve the already successful beachside restaurant, putting in their own touches and growing relationships

with regulars, locals and other businesses.

Now they are doing the same to Pickles, getting it back on the map so to speak, by changing menus, the décor and improving product quality and selection.

Roasters Yovin Coffee, also a family business, has created a special blend of beans just for Pickles with a strong and rich flavour. Harney and Sons has its large range of tea in their beautiful silk tea bags and everything is made onsite by passionate chefs. New to the menu are the wood fired pizzas.

Local business are frequent customers, some of them staying all day and using Pickles as the office away from home. There are areas that can be closed off for discreet meetings too, but booking is recommended.

yle ate st r o p r A co th private i cafe w ting & s mee ervice s g n i cater

Pickles is also a great location for functions; birthdays, wedding and even a fundraiser has been held at Pickles recently with plenty of adaptable space to accommodate your next gathering. Call the café or come in and talk it though with Andy and Jenni.

GOURMET FOOD & DRINKS GROUP BOOKINGS, PLATTERS CATERING AND FUNCTIONS FREE WI-FI INTERNET FULLY LICENSED

Pickles has an extensive catering menu that dishes are always being added to. The team can also do corporate breakfasts, lunches, meeting platters - whatever you need.

Corner of Apollo Dr & Antares Place - Mairangi Bay

Ph: 09 4795814 | Open 7 days 7am - 4pm www.picklescafe.co.nz

All Pickles’ staff are friendly and efficient, as it’s always nice to go a place where the people make you smile or share a joke or two. The kitchen always has amazing baking and cooking aromas wafting out that create a warm, homely and comfortable ambiance.

The weekends take on a more relaxed atmosphere as Pickles makes for the perfect spot to soak up the weekend paper and a great cup of coffee. What a great way to start your weekend I say.

Check out their website for more info. www.picklescafe.co.nz Or like them on Facebook too!

Pickles on Apollo 1 Antares Place Mairangi Bay T (09) 479 5814 www.picklescafe.co.nz

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Phone: 09 479 2516 66 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Hospitality | Aubergine Takapuna

Claim to fame Aubergine Takapuna was voted Best Restaurant in Takapuna by voters at the Takapuna Beach Business Association competition – helping the restaurant move one step closer to its goal of becoming the best Mediterranean restaurant in Auckland.

A taste of the

Mediterranean

For an experience reminiscent of the whitewashed houses of the Mediterranean, the long stretches of beach, the salty scent of the sea and the sweet taste of fresh olives, Auckland’s Aubergine Takapuna is the place to go.

and herbs jus, with basil pesto and served on a potato garlic mash.

The exotic menu offers diners a unique mix of old Kiwi favourites; infused with the sun kissed flavours of the Mediterranean and the classy sophistication of European cuisine.

- Dineout Reviewer January 12, 2013

Whether it is for brunch, lunch or a romantic dinner – Aubergine promises a dining experience not to be missed.

Quality and service Its management works under the philosophy of quality and service, ensuring that those who walk through its doors will have an experience that fulfils every expectation.

It offers speedy service, that doesn’t compromise excellence, with a friendly human touch to make you feel right at home from the second you walk through the door.

The rack of lamb is served with a blue cheese and walnut crust, grilled peppers, a potato garlic and herb mash with a rosemary jus.

The fish of the day is equally superb, pan fried in a chardonnay garlic butter sauce served with roasted new potatoes and some sautéed garden vegetables.

“

The reviews are in

“Great food (especially the duck confit) and atmosphere. Service was great. The price was also good, for 38 per person you can get a three course meal.”

“I hadn’t been to Aubergines for a number of years. This is a restaurant that understands its customers completely. A well balanced menu and a good wine list. The staff are welcoming and attentive. I had the fish which was superb. The desserts are a bit on the large size but are lovely.”

- Dineout Reviewer October 23, 2012

Book your function at Aubergine

”

Private functions, business functions and group bookings for any special event can be organised by the efficient team at Aubergine.

The passionate staff members at Aubergine Takapuna are driven by their desire to offer locals and visitors to the area an authentic Euro - Mediterranean experience; not unlike The restaurant has a seating capacity of up to the fine dining experiences to be found on the 140 people; an area large enough for most streets of Paris, Rome or Madrid. business or family events. It is also centrally located in Takapuna’s beach dining and entertainment area making it easy to find.

Star players Aubergine’s star player is its chef’s signature dish, Duck à l’orange – a crispy duck breast served with roast golden kumara, sautéed vegetables and an orange honey jus.

For those wanting something a little meatier, the aged eye fillet of beef is an equally tasty dish. Served with grilled field mushrooms, a potato garlic and herbs mash and creamed fresh spinach, all topped off with a Drambuie and herbs reduction jus.

Sweet delights To round up the delicious meal choose from one of Aubergine’s delectable desserts with an exquisitely brewed coffee on the side.

• Chocolate profiteroles with vanilla icecream $13.90 • Swiss ice-cream or sorbet on a French meringue $12.90

Opening hours Mon to Sun: midday – midnight Aubergine Takapuna 129 Hurstmere Road Takapuna T (09) 489 3104 E info@aubergine.co.nz www.aubergine.co.nz — Advertising Feature

• Cheesecake special served on a bed of forest-berry coulis $13.90

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• Chocolate fudge cake with crème anglais and hot chocolate sauce $14.50

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• Crème brulèe flavoured with vanilla pods and served with biscotti.

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There is also ample car parking nearby, bus stops and taxi stands.

To take advantage of the range of tasty food on offer, choose from one of Aubergine’s well priced set menus. Special menus can be provided and all special requirements can also be catered for, including vegetarian, gluten and dairy free options.

The three course dinner special offer comes in at $38. Enjoy a garlic bread or soup of the evening to start, followed by any one of the The other popular meaty dishes on offer are mains on the dinner menu and finish it all up the lamb shanks and the rack of lamb. The shanks are oven roasted in a thyme, rosemary with any one of the desserts on the menu.

Importers and distributors specialising in Turkish and Mediterranean foods.

Proudly associated with Aubergine Takapuna P: 0800 339 583 F: 09 443 0488 E: sinan@fezfood.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 67

Hospitality | The Luscious Food Store << Fact box >>

Luxurious serves The Luscious Catering company, with its already established reputation for providing quality food to some of the big names in New Zealand film, has successfully branched out into the café business – providing Auckland locals with easy access to its delicious cuisine.

The Luscious Food Store, since its opening three years ago, has proven to be just as great a success in the Auckland scene, making a name for itself as a place to relax, eat and enjoy some deliciously hearty fare.

This local café, with its enticing outdoor garden, offers city slickers a place to come and hide from the busy humdrum of urban life. Owner and chef, Jono Clarke says the passionate Luscious team is dedicated to serving great quality food in a relaxed, familyfriendly environment.

“We expect everything we serve and the service we provide will be delicious and have you coming back for more,” he says.

In the beginning Jono first established the catering side of his business back in 1998, creating a range of cuisine that quickly became synonymous with the terms sumptuous, fresh and innovative.

During the years Jono and his team of expert chefs regularly catered to some of the biggest film and television productions in Auckland, including the BBC’s Castaway, America’s Next Top Model and other local productions, including Outrageous Fortune and The Cult, as well as other events such as the Louis Vuitton Cup, the Netball World Cup and Taste.

Open to all Today Jono has opened the doors of his business to anyone in search of a great meal.

“We have all sorts coming here, mums in the mid-mornings, business people and locals, for lunch, a glass of wine and for tasting platters.”

Supporting the locals

The Luscious Food Store sources a lot of its produce locally, from suppliers such as the The Produce Company, Zeki’s wood fired Turkish breads and beer from the Hallertau brewery in Riverhead. <<end fact box >>

Jono points out, like any great business the key to success is providing good service and even better food, in a unique space that caters for a wide range of customers.

“We have been slowly developing what we offer, how we serve guests and how we market ourselves to fill up those times that haven’t been as fruitful.”

He says it is his vision to continue to establish The Luscious Food Store as an iconic brand that will be known around the region.

Simply yummy To ensure all the Luscious food tastes great and is of the best quality, Jono and his team of chefs make almost everything on site. To keep things exciting the menu also changes a little every season. However, for the café’s regulars certain favourites, like the snapper hash cakes served with spinach, poached eggs, tomato, cucumber and goats curd, stick around all year.

More than just great food While the great food is certainly one of this unique café’s major draw cards, the Luscious Food Store also offers guests the whole dining and entertainment package throughout the year, with events such as comedy quiz nights, wine and food evenings with winemakers, specialty food events, live music including the café’s afternoon Peninsula beats with DJs, kid’s face painting and the good old fashioned Kiwi BBQ.

Contact the Luscious Food team and let them organise your…

• Events

Luscious DIY Roasted Peaches with Ginger and Almond Butter

Method

Serves 10

Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Pre heat the oven to 200 degrees.

2 tsp fresh grated ginger

Hollow out the peaches a little, brush with butter and roast for 10 minutes,

200g almonds 125g caster sugar 200g unsalted butter

Soften the butter and mix with the ginger and sugar and almonds.

then stuff the center with a large dollop of the butter.

10 peaches halved and stoned.

Roast for another 10 minutes; serve with some vanilla ice cream.

Caponata

Method

A dish from southern Italy, eaten either as a warm vegetable side dish, or as a cold antipasto.

Salt eggplant, for one hour, in a strainer so the liquid drains.

Ingredients 2 eggplants in 2cm cubes 3 sticks celery in 2cm pieces

Sauté the celery and onion in one-third of the olive oil until they become soft and translucent, add the tomatoes roughly chopped so they breakdown.

3⁄4 cup olive oil

Simmer for five minutes.

1 onion diced

In another pan, fry the eggplant in the remaining olive oil, so it goes golden brown.

1 cup stoned green olives 1⁄2 cup of drained capers

• Weddings

4 ripe tomatoes

• Corporate functions

1⁄2 cup white wine vinegar

• Location and film catering

2 tablespoons sugar

Set aside. Add the rest of the ingredients to the tomato base and simmer for five more minutes, then add the eggplant and cook for 10 minutes more.

3⁄4 cup toasted almond slices.

Serve at room temp or chill and use later.

• Cocktail parties • Finger food and canapés • Formal seated dinners.

for your • party hire • jukeboxes • pa systems

• marquees • weddings • party lighting

Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday: 7.30am- 4pm Friday: 7.30 – 9.30pm Saturday: 7.30 – 4pm

Authentic Handmade Woodfired Turkish Pide

www.zekisbread.co.nz 68 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Carlton Party Hire Auckland West 18 Te Pai Place, Henderson P. (09) 836 7028 M. 027 290 4264 E. akwest@carltonpartyhire.co.nz

www.carltonpartyhire.co.nz

The Luscious Food Store 547 Te Atatu Road Te Atatu Peninsula T (09) 834 8499 E jono@lusciouscatering.co.nz www.lusciouscatering.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Hospitality | The Viaduct Grill

A waterfront

grilling

Grilling is an archaic practice with contemporary relevance.

Investigations suggest that our ancestral counterparts may have grilled food as far back as one million years ago.

But time certainly hasn’t eroded interest in this popular style of cooking and The Viaduct Grill, aka The V Grill in Auckland, has most definitely got this culinary strategy down to a fine art.

Creative cooking The V Grill is, as its name suggests, is at the heart of Auckland in the Viaduct Basin. In the thriving metropolitan hub it has been serving hungry patrons since 2004 and wowing their palates with fresh, grilled food.

Offering lunch and dinner, The V Grill has char grilled Angus, eye fillet, scotch, T-bone and sirloin. Its other specialties also include fresh New Zealand seafood including half shell oysters, green-lipped mussels and fresh fish like snapper, salmon and tuna. This is a restaurant that is marrying tradition with creativity.

The V Grill is about affordability, atmosphere and exceptional dishes. These dishes are also paired with an extensive wine offering

including a variety of drops with international accents.

“We have quickly earned a reputation amongst locals and visitors alike for serving some of the best New Zealand Angus beef, seafood, wine and cocktails in Auckland,” Viaduct Grill director Richard Liu says.

“We pride ourselves on offering customer service that is relaxed and friendly in an environment that offers expansive harbour views highlighting what the Auckland waterfront is all about.”

Do it in style If you’re looking for a venue to indulge you and your friends or family, during a wedding, anniversary or birthday celebration, The V Grill has you covered. It can host any event, large or small, offering a range of menu options from canapés right through to degustation menus.

“The V grill doesn’t just offer you a place to relax, it offers awesome food and an opportunity for you to drink special cocktails and wine,” Liu says.

“We are in a prime location and are just a short walking distance to bars and night clubs, making this the best place to go before a night out. No trip to the waterfront is complete without a visit to The V Grill because we are a unique waterside restaurant.”

An area of the restaurant can be designated as your party corner of the world, and where possible, deck areas can also be reserved so guests can soak up the ambience of the world class Viaduct Basin.

Teasers from the Viaduct Grill menu Open seven days for lunch and dinner

OR

Chicken Sandwich Deluxe

Lightly floured salt and pepper squid with mustard mayonnaise and petite salad

Grilled chicken, bacon, brie, avocado puree and aioli on Turkish bread with house salad and fries V Grill Seafood Platter Oysters, mussels, scallops, lightly battered tarakihi, salt and pepper squid and smoked salmon served with toast bread Pan Roasted Duck Roasted half duck served on a potato mash with pear, blue cheese and walnut salad and rich, creamy jus The Grill’s Famous Spice Crusted Sirloin A 250g sirloin streak with a peanut, honey and chili crust served with a potato mash, wilted spinach, crispy bacon and red wine jus

Main 250g char grilled aged Angus with thick cut fries with green salad and red wine jus OR Corn fed chicken breast stuffed with a mixture of sun dried tomato, feta, bacon, spinach and bread crumbs served on potato mash with bacon wrapped green beans and tomato coulis OR Pacific salmon fillet served with green salad, roasted potatoes and capers salsa Dessert Warm chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce

Entrée

OR

Six green-lipped mussels steamed in lemon grass and coconut broth

Baked crumble of the day with ice cream and crème anglaise The Viaduct (V) Grill 99 Customs Street West Viaduct Basin Auckland T (09) 307 0995 E info@thevgrill.co.nz www.thevgrill.co.nz — Advertising Feature

SCOTT

SEAFOOD We have a great selection of...

• Prawn Cutlets • Fresh Whole Fish • Oysters • Live Mussels •Crab Meat • Chicken & Finger Food JR Wholesale Meats will customise to your requirements, provide competitive pricing and outstanding service.

Call Paul or Alex on 09 634 0597, our City & Guilds Qualified Chefs.

Fax. 09 634 7982 E. sales@jrwholesale.co.nz PO Box 13559, Onehunga, Auckland www.jrwholesale.co.nz

Scott Seafood is proud suppliers of seafood and frozen products to The Viaduct Grill 127 Central Park Drive, Henderson.

Ph: 835 0927 Mon - Fri 9am - 5.30pm Sat 8.30am - 4.00pm www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 69

Hospitality | Molten Restaurant and Wine Bar

At a glance | Howick Golf Club

A collaboration of

It’s tee time

food and wine

A combination of beautiful wine teamed with stunning food is always the recipe for an exceptional occasion – and when all you have to do is walk in and choose from menus which have the finest of both, it ensures exceptional is just what will be delivered.

At Molten Restaurant and Wine Bar in Mt Eden the emphasis on providing exquisite wines is just as important as delivering remarkable food.

There is a team of three experienced sommeliers, all of whom have worked in top class restaurants around the world, who are tasked with the on-going development of the wine programme at Molten.

For far too long gourmet export lamb has been unavailable to New Zealanders.

At last you can now enjoy the best.

You deserve it. Come and experience the Leelands quality

Proudly supporting the Molten Restaurant & Wine Bar P.

(03) 215 8876

F.

The Howick Golf Club is located just 40 minutes away from the central city.

Idyllically perched on top of the peninsula it offers visitors a unique golfing experience, combined with the magnificent sweeping views of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf and the stunning islands that dot the otherwise royal blue expanse of water.

Lay of the land The golf course is more than just a pretty picture. Golfers will have their skills well tested at this charming, yet challenging course. While it’s not a long course, the tight fairways lined with lots of trees, rolling topography and smallish greens, offer a good test of accuracy.

Join now 12-month full membership: $995 – no joining fee

Green fees - 18 holes Weekends and public holidays $35 affiliated and non-affiliated before 12.40, or $25 after 12.40 Weekdays $25 Affiliated and non-affiliated

Green fees - 9 Holes 7 days a week (weekends after 2pm) $20 Affiliated and non-affiliated • Carts $35 • Club rental from $30 • Trundlers $5 Contact the Golf Shop for a booking on: (09) 535 1004 or go to www.golf.co.nz and “book a tee time” online.

Open door policy Open most days, with tee-times regularly available, visitors simply need to call the golf club to book a time to enjoy a sporting fun day out in one of Auckland’s most picturesque golfing locations.

“We believe that wine can play as big a role as the food in your night out, and a great wine-food match can greatly enhance a meal.

As a result, the menu is composed to be wine friendly, and the wine list designed to work in tandem with our cuisine,” says manager Sven.

Molten has endeavoured to author a wine list fundamentally based on value for money – whether a customer is ordering from the under $50 section, or drinking one of the world’s greatest wines at near retail prices.

“We’ve designed the document itself to be as user friendly and informative as possible, working in conjunction with on the spot advice and information from our front of house team – all of whom are dedicated wine and beer enthusiasts.”

Ideally located in Bucklands Beach is the Musick Point Peninsula and one of Auckland’s best kept secrets. Here is the perfect place to thrash out your frustrations with a golf club and ball, while taking in the picturesque calming views of the Hauraki Gulf and Tamaki Estuary.

Not to be outdone, the food definitely provides gastronomic pleasure as chef Robert Richardson creates dishes which are inspired from the finest bistros throughout Europe and the United States. “He has been at the helm of the kitchen for the past couple of years, after having worked with some of New Zealand’s most talented chefs,” Sven explains.

Molten provides a variety of areas for different customers. Housed within a heritage building dating back to the 1850s, the restaurant and wine bar can accommodate different guests in a variety of environs.

“Our guests can dine in our cosy and intimate 30 seat dining room, share a great glass of wine and some fantastic small plates in the wine bar, sit outside in the covered and heated garden and courtyard, or celebrate that special occasion in one of our private dining rooms.”

The dress code is relaxed; there is no need to turn up in pressed white linens. Neat and tidy clothes (no singlets) and a pair of approved golf shoes with soft spikes on your feet, means you are good to go.

Squeeze in some shopping For those golfers looking for new gloves or a lovely Howick Golf Club shirt, the golf shop sells a range of products, from golf balls to footwear. Those without golf clubs can hire.

Take a break After a tough game, the Howick Golf Club also provides a relaxing indoor-outdoor area for café food and a variety of refreshments.

On weekends you can enjoy a more

substantial breakfast or meal in the upstairs café and lounge. Visitors can take their time to sit, relax, drink, eat and take in the serene atmosphere and magnificent 180-degree harbour views.

This is also a popular wedding reception and party venue. Contact us for more details.

Howick Golf Club 32 Musick Point Road Bucklands Beach Auckland T (09) 535 1004 E reception@howickgolf.co.nz www.howickgolf.co.nz — Advertising Feature

There are two private function rooms that can seat up to 14 and 20 respectively, along with a courtyard that can be booked privately for groups of up to 70 for drinks and canapés.

The dining room is intimate and cosy.

Opened nine years ago by Michael and Belinda Van de Elzen, Molten is a neighbourhood restaurant, providing excellent food and smart service in a casual and relaxed setting - of course all accompanied by delectable fine wine.

Helping create a cleaner healthier environment

(03) 215 8874

billandsue@orcon.net.nz www.leelands.co.nz

Molten Restaurant and Wine Bar 422 Mt Eden Road Mt Eden Auckland T (09) 638 7236 www.molten.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

70 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Proud to support Howick Golf Club for over 6 years!

6 Nelson Street, Pukekohe | P: (09) 238 5414 | F: (09) 238 2424 E: layne@countiescleaning.co.nz | www.countiescleaning.co.nz

Invest in Christchurch 818 Colombo Street Section

SECURE YOUR NEW COMMERCIAL BUILDING in CENTRAL CITY MIXED USE ZONING

Land Owner

818 Colombo Street, Christchurch

Gary Collins

Consent approved to establish a mixed use (retail/hospitality and office) development.

Preliminary plans prepared proposing car parking on the eastern half of the site and a new five level building on the western side of the site adjacent to Colombo Street.

At present retail and/or food and beverage activities are proposed at ground floor level with office activity on the upper floor levels.

- UP TO 16 CARPARKS - Possible to build 4 levels, approx 2250m â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3 office and 1 retail - Total building floor area 2200m2 - On site rear car parking - Architectural concept plans available from well regarded M.A.P Architects - Owner will sell the land and insurance rebuild payout to a new owner - Land 1000m + $6.35mil insurance rebuild - Price on application

M 021 742 344

Project/Construction | Leuschke Group

Delivering

distinctive design

Architecture is not the result of a myriad of ideas spontaneously combusting. It is a considered and non-linear art and has the ability to transform a space, connote a feeling, fulfill a purpose, and convey an idea.

Architecture is the product of both the abstract and the tangible and it is the forté of Leuschke Group Limited Architects; a company that continues to seek out new challenges, push conservative boundaries and embrace revolutionary change in the global architectural industry.

“The key foundation for us, has been our client base – some of whom we still have today, more than a quarter of a century later,” Leuschke explains.

These were set in place by Colin and Lindy Leuschke - both registered architects. Their dynamic is an interesting one that has clearly shaped the company into what it is today.

The Leuschke Globetrotters

It is this robust and loyal client base that has inspired the company’s agility and versatility – qualities that make Leuschke Group the unique business it is. Today the company has Foundations are key residential and commercial portfolios that are Like the buildings Leuschke Group designs, the approached with unwavering commitment company itself has been built on the strongest and the highest level of accountability. of foundations.

Creative complementarity is hard to come by. It can’t be forced and it can’t be feigned.

It needs serendipity; a meeting of two minds that for all of their differences, meet somewhere in the middle.

The Leuschke’s found this in each other.

They married prior to attending the School of Architecture at the University of Auckland and upon graduating, went in pursuit of international inspiration as curious twentysomething’s thirsty for knowledge and experience.

ECS are proud to support Leuschke Group on their projects. www.ecservices.co.nz

72 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

“We were married at the time we went travelling and it was very good personal and commercial experience for us. We were exposed to larger economies, larger scale industries and different environments with different ways of doing things,” Colin Leuschke says.

On their return to New Zealand in 1980, the couple started the genesis of Leuschke Group.

Part of Leuschke Group’s flexibility owes to its openness to international and cultural influences. The company is mindful of the insularity and professional limitations that can creep in when working within a small, conservative environment like New Zealand.

“We are consistently upgrading our thinking processes and we do this by travelling outside of New Zealand.

“When businesses are competing in the same business environment on the same terms, they can start looking inward. When you travel, it’s healthy because you’re looking at the bigger picture and seeing the way the world is looking at things, which can be quite different to how your peers see it,” he adds.

Regular attendances at the American and Australian Institutes of Architects Conferences have opened Leuschke Group’s mind to different societies and architectural organisations and inspired the way the company approaches its work.

Project/Construction | Leuschke Group “In addition to being open to international inspiration, we are also committed to longevity in our business,” Leuschke says.

“We always try hard – always. We know this is an industry where you don’t sprint – it is a marathon and a relentless process where there is no pause in the pace.”

There’s an age-old saying rooted in professional truth that ‘you’re only as good as your last job’, but Leuschke says he believes you’re only as good as your next job.

“In your last job, you’ve proven yourself and you’ve secured those ties to your client, but in your next job you’ve still got everything ahead of you and you must prove yourself again.”

It’s not that the Leuschke Group is ungrateful for the multiple awards it has won for commercial, industrial and residential projects – quite the opposite in fact.

It’s just that Leuschke doesn’t place emphasis on the awards themselves – more the relationships that underpin them.

The awards won by the company have been numerous and impressive. Leuschke Group has received awards for commercial, industrial and residential projects from both the New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) and the Property Council of New Zealand.

Awards aside, for the Leuschke Group, success looks like people – the people the company works with. “We qualify our success through the relationships we establish with our clients,” Leuschke reveals.

“Significant money can be spent on marketing and if you don’t have to do this to attract or retain business because of client loyalty, you’ve found success and you don’t need to worry about where your next job is coming from.”

The jobs undertaken by the Leuschke Group vary in size, style and cost. “Our projects range from simple to complex and are very diverse. Some projects are utilitarian and commercially driven and are not necessarily beautiful in an aesthetic sense, while others are quite the opposite with a strong design ethic demanded,” Leuschke explains.

“We are fortunate enough to have completed a significant number of large projects that have demanded very high levels of skill - Princes Wharf was such a project. The scope and scale of these projects makes them challenging and very demanding, but they have given the company the skills and confidence to bring value and certainty to projects of any size.”

Cultural influences With the changing face of New Zealand through immigration, other challenges have emerged for the industry.

Expectations from different groups of citizens vary and Leuschke Group sees part of the role of an architect as recognising and reconciling these social issues in the built form.

The recently completed Queens Court retail center in Auckland’s Queen Street exhibits this.

The site sits adjacent to Auckland’s historic Town Hall and in a designated historic area.

That history is colonial, originating from Europe - particularly Great Britain. The user group however, is sourced from the huge number of tertiary and language school students in the area, mostly from Asia.

The design of the building reflects the latter while the execution of the building with its use of sand stone and basalt echoing the Town Hall refers to the former. The building reacts to its contemporary needs but its physical look, clad in sandstone and basalt like its Town Hall neighbor, sits comfortably in its historic context.

Similarly, the new Rotorua Police Station designed by Leuschke Group and presently under construction, houses a modern police force. However, the building has been executed in deference to the local Arawa people, referencing Maori traditions in a contemporary manner.

This modern building is clad in a decorative laser cut aluminum screen to reference a pattern designed by a well known Arawa artist. It enfolds the building like a Korowai or cloak. Its metaphor is the cloak protecting the building like the police protect the people of Rotorua.

premises until the completion of the planned Justice Precinct in Christchurch.

“Leuschke Group is proud to have assisted in a small way, the rebuilding of Christchurch back into the beautiful city it once was.”

A designer team Limitations can occur within even the most capable organisations, but Leuschke Group has what could be described as a ‘designer team’ – no pun intended. It’s made up of a group of people as diverse as the projects they deliver.

“Over the years we have followed our clients and their project endeavors and not particular building typologies.” Leuschke explains.

“We have worked with a wide range of building types and our team’s capabilities are broad enough to cater to these differences. We brought our unique staff together for that reason.”

Apart from design, Leuschke Group prides itself on its contract documentation and expert administration of contracts, taking designs from construction through to completion. The company has often completed buildings for absentee owners and respects the responsibility this entails.

“The opportunities to reconcile, through design, differing social needs from a diverse population are welcomed by Leuschke Group.

The results are forming part of the story of who New Zealanders are and what we are becoming,” Leuschke says.

“Cultural influences can also be driven by physical events. Leuschke Group, in association with Vincent Chrisp Architects from Melbourne, has just completed the design of the Christchurch Central Police Station.

“Lindy and my business partner and our third shareholder is Brian Cocker, a registered architect – he is our technical expert. Our oracle,” Leuschke says.

“He makes sure our buildings are property documented and detailed correctly, conforming to the highest industry standards.

He has been a part of the company since the mid-1980s.

“The rest of our staff of 15 offer a consistent level of expertise because of their wealth of experience. Alongside our more experienced staff, we also have younger, hopefully groovier designers who are able to develop very fresh and competitive designs.

“In an architectural business of course you need experienced designers, but it is important they are also open to suggestions from younger designers, otherwise a firm can lose its currency.”

Since inception, Leuschke Group has built up considerable experience and a strong reputation that precedes the designers.

Leuschke says, for the future, the group will be focused on maintaining its consistently high standards and facilitating any handover transitions when the time comes to ensure these standards prevail and stand the test of time. · One component, ready to use, flexible Waterproofing Membrane · Tiles can be installed after 4 hours over a porous substrate · Rain fast after just 3 hours · No reinforcement required · Rooms treated with Mapelastic AquaDefense are back in use after just one day!

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“This successful project is to house Christchurch Police in semi-temporary

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So what does success look like to the Leuschke Group? Unlike other organisations that measure themselves against this honour, it’s not awards and public acclaim, but the success of their clients’ projects on the clients’ terms.

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 73

Project/Construction | Leuschke Group

Projects

Residential...

From high-rise urban buildings to beautiful coastal residents, each project is valued and each design is unique reflecting its location and the owner’s dream and aspirations.

Herne Bay This home was the winner of the 2007 NZIA Local Award for Architecture.

Commercial...

Princess Wharf The iconic Princess Wharf in Auckland is over 100,000 square metres stretching a kilometer into the Waitemata Harbour. It is made up of 10,000 square metres of commercial space, the Overseas Passenger Terminal, Hilton Hotel and 400 apartments.

Designed and documented entirely by Leuschke Group, the development is designed to celebrate its nautical setting and reflect the cruise boats that berth alongside. The project received both a local and regional award from the NZIA and demonstrates the group’s design and technical capabilities.

It was also shortlisted for the 2008 NZIA National Award for Architecture and the 2008 NZIA House of the Year.

The award Citation states that “This house receives the Waitemata with the power that it is delivered. The long, steep waterfront site on the edge of a public reserve presented the architect with a sizeable challenge.

“The house is grounded and protected by cast in-situ concrete walls reminiscent of ramparts or even the embattlements that remain at the edges of the Waitemata harbor.

“Internally these walls provide for delightful courtyards that allow daylight and privacy to co-exist as quiet retreats from the vast views to the north. The exquisite attention to detail and thoughtful planning make for a wellexecuted coastal house with a welcome sense of permanence.”

Apartments...

Hilton Hotel

Heron Point

Princess Wharf attracted this world famous brand to New Zealand. Its stunning location, thrusting into the Waitemata Harbour is dramatic. Every room enjoys magnificent views and none more striking than the suites known nautically as bow suites.

Located at the seaward end of St Stephen’s Avenue, Parnell, this premier development is in one of New Zealand’s most highly valued suburbs and incorporates 19 luxury apartments in a variety of configurations.

It’s a breathtaking experience to stand on their decks high above the water and admire the incredible view.

The design, while contemporary, is substantial and made of permanent materials, commensurate with the high quality of this development’s surroundings.

The apartments enjoy outstanding harbour and city views and have been completed to the highest quality of workmanship and materials in an enviable location unrepeatable on Auckland’s waterfront.

Interior...

Bettjemans Spa This project was part of the Bettjemans Salon in Orakei, Auckland. The original fit-out dates back to 1998 and the 2008 addition features a separate hair spa with elements complementing the original design. A curtain of interlocking, raw steel plates separates the basin and seating areas.

Aluart Aluart is a world leader in the surface treatment of aluminum paneling. Leuschke Group was tasked with reflecting this expertise in the design of the Aluart offices in Parnell, Auckland. The exciting and innovative result reflects not only the company’s technical ability, but showcases its products and quality.

The design explores the potential of patterning and laser cutting of aluminum, which flows through to the extensive glass walls.

Under construction...

Under construction are 30 high end apartments in Balfour Road, Parnell.

As this story goes to print, the penthouse floor has been poured and the roof is being framed.

The project is for a private client whose repeat business is highly valued by the Leuschke Group. The apartments will be offered for sale later this year on completion. They enjoy a sensational and convenient location adjacent the city, the harbour, Parnell’s Rose gardens and Tamaki Drive.

The design is thoughtful and experienced, with a high level of detail and quality finishes.

On completion it will join a long list of successful projects designed by Leuschke Group.

Leuschke Group Architects Ltd 6 Eden Street Newmarket Auckland T (09) 522 5525 email@leuschke.co.nz www.leuschke.co.nz

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Master Builders | Allan Wallace Builders

Making difficult builds easy

Allan Wallace Builders Awards • 2000 Registered Master Builders (RMB) Auckland category winner new homes over $500,000 • 2004 RMB Auckland category winner new home $250,000 to $400,000 and Supreme Auckland winner • 2006 RMB Auckland category winner renovation over $250,000 • 2010 RMB Auckland gold reserve award renovation $250,000 to $500,000

Allan Wallace of Allan Wallace Builders Ltd likes a challenge, but in his 47 years in the business the multi-award winning builder had never come across a home with no windows - until he was presented with an eco home project that has seen him garner more awards for his home building craftsmanship.

The Kumeu based Allan Wallace Builders was approached by South Head couple Sarah Sutherland and Dougal Watt to build their ground breaking eco home on the coast west of Auckland.

Building Energy Efficiency Award at the 2012 Registered Master Builders Awards.

Allan is rightly proud of those awards and when added to the list of other awards his company has picked up during the years, it makes for impressive reading and goes a long way to ensuring potential clients know they are going to get a high quality finished home.

“We wouldn’t have been able to achieve such a result at South Head without our key contractors and suppliers who have helped us, including Helensville Glass, who supplied our bathroom glass, our door suppliers Nulook Kumeu, which included the specialised LowE glass and our gibstopper AMH Ltd,” Allan says.

Allan Wallace Builders is a family owned business with wife Dale supporting Allan with the running of the company and son Jonathon one of four registered builders on the staff of five, which includes one apprentice.

“

• 2010 RMB Auckland category winner new home $350,000 to $450,000

Testimonial

Alan Wallace is one of those rare builders, who combines great skill, experience, common sense, honesty, team building and customer focus.

Our house was extremely challenging to build and was mostly built using solar power. Not only did Alan Wallace Builders achieve an amazing result, but they have won multiple awards for it and are an outstanding example of environmentalism and professionalism in building.

• 2010 RMB National winner new home $350,000 to $450,000 • 2012 RMB Auckland new home $600,000 to $1 million gold reserve • 2012 RMB Auckland sustainable home $500,000 to $1 million gold reserve • 2012 RMB National winner sustainable home $500,000 to $1 million • 2012 RMB national winner Future Proof Building Energy Efficiency Award

Alan Wallace and his wife Dale, didn’t just build our fantastic house, but have become friends.

- Sarah Sutherland and Dougal Watt, South Head

”

Dale Wallace says one of the keys to the success of the company is that the team works well together.

“Some of them have been with us for over 20 years and they are a tight unit when working together,” Dale says.

“Allan really knows the industry. He is always up for a challenge and is never more happier The home, which is set on 175 hectares than when he is working with our clients with views to Muriwai beach and across the especially on a build which is out of Kaipara Harbour, has no windows. “It’s all glass doors, 24 of them, making up 93 percent the ordinary.” of the walls,” Allan Wallace says.

Allan Wallace Builders Allan says the trickiest part of the build, which 179 Old Railway Road Kumeu took seven months, was ensuring everything was perfectly straight as if it wasn’t, the doors T (09) 412 9611 E twal@xtra.co.nz would never have lined up.

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“A lot of the strength for the building comes with the aluminum joinery which is inlaid with steel.”

With so many doors the house, with its three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a massive living/kitchen area, can virtually be opened up to the elements from all sides.

The interior wall cladding for the home is recycled rimu which came from Blenheim.

“All the wood had to be hand sanded then covered with 15 coats of Dutch soap,” Alan says.

The house is self sufficient in power and water and not connected to the power grid.

In addition to solar power generation unit, which provided the power for the build as the nearest power pole was 3km away, the house has a wood fired boiler which provides both the hot water and under floor heating.

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“I believe since the build the owners have spent just on $100 for utilities,” Allan says.

The nearly $1 million South Head home won the BRANZ Sustainable Homes $500,000 to $1 million category and the Future Proof

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Project/Construction | Watts and Hughes Construction < One of the biggest challenges of the $12.6 million Countdown project was the tight construction timeframe.

High quality

construction

Focus on the client Client satisfaction is the foremost priority for Watts and Hughes Construction.

The company has ongoing commitment to providing exceptional quality of design and construction that exceeds its clients’ requirements.

Staff are committed to meeting every client’s requirements through regular communication.

Directors Craig Watts, Peter Wilkinson, Rob Murphy and Mark Gutry are fully involved in every aspect of their business and are always available to talk to clients and make decisions quickly.

Complete construction service

Watts and Hughes Construction offers a wide range of construction management services and builds only the highest quality projects across the North and South Islands.

By adopting and implementing robust company policies in the areas of project methodology, quality assurance, health and safety and environmental control, Watts and Hughes Construction is able to offer clients the confidence that their design build and construction projects will be professionally managed from start to finish.

Watts and Hughes was established in Auckland in 1984 and in Tauranga in 2004 and has since built a large number of highquality projects.

In the Auckland region Watts and Hughes offers a range of construction management services, while in the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne and Wellington regions the management services are augmented by a more hands-on approach that also includes the supply of some construction trades.

The company builds within a range of sectors, including industrial, recreational, retail, commercial, residential, educational, marine, government infrastructure and medical/health care.

Watts and Hughes Construction’s in-house quality control programmes ensure the highest standards of construction are maintained, while still keeping the project within timelines and budget controls.

The company’s achievements have resulted from careful planning and an awareness of the changing, complex nature of today’s construction projects and client needs.

• Assisting with budget control • Offering a broad range of construction techniques • Setting efficient timelines the company will adhere to • Overcoming or offsetting potential construction period difficulties.

Company overview

Watts and Hughes takes clients through every step of the project, from initial design to completed construction and recognises that client requirements are of extreme importance.

Control and management of all projects are overseen by the directors, who ensure key people possess the technical excellence,

The company ensures clients have regular communications concerning progress and if they need answers fast, they can contact a Watts and Hughes director.

Watts and Hughes Construction can help clients with all of their construction issues from the initial concept and design, including:

“

experience and construction industry knowledge to get the job completed on time and to a high standard.

Watts and Hughes Construction employs more than 80 people across its Auckland, Mt Maunganui and Christchurch operations.

The vast experience of its staff ensures each project is managed effectively.

The company chooses every subcontractor carefully, particularly for design and build work.

“We don’t always take the cheapest subcontractor,” contracts manager Jim Wylie says.

“We take the best for that particular job and always look for someone we know can perform on time and is good at that particular work.”

Testimonial

“Watts and Hughes Construction were appointed as main contractors to the New Clendon Library for the Manukau City Council. This appointment was on a collaborative basis, with the contractor assisting in both the design (buildability issues) and costing disciplines.

“We have found Watts and Hughes to be extremely easy to work alongside of, to be pro active and very keen to put the client’s interests to the forefront.

They proved to control the construction phase in a professional and firm manner achieving the end goal on time, within budget and high quality. The end result being a building the client is proud of.

“We have no hesitation in recommending Watts and Hughes Construction for a similar project.”

- Mike Hanson, RDT Pacific, Auckland

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www.trak.co.nz 76 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Phone (09) 525 5855

”

Project/Construction | Watts and Hughes Construction

The new retail development built by Watts and Hughes Construction at Pukekohe.

Countdown Watts and Hughes Construction built the large new modern Countdown supermarket at Mt Roskill, which is being hailed a huge success.

Watts and Hughes contracts manager Jim Wylie says the Countdown on Stoddard Road was a typical project for the company.

Strong working relationships The roof is a combination of Kingspan insulated metal panels and direct-stick rubber membrane with significant amounts of roof skylight.

The interior is typical Countdown configuration providing the full range of consumer products.

One of the biggest challenges of the $12.6 million project was the tight construction timeframe, with the client wanting to begin trading as soon as possible. The project took about a year to complete, with the Countdown opening for business in February.

Retail and office spaces are air conditioned, using package units that incorporate economiser cycles and heat reclaim as energy saving measures. An air curtain is provided at the main entry to minimise the ingress of hot air in summer and cold air in winter.

“There was contaminated soil on the site, so we had to deal with that, and the project involved a post-tension slab, which are starting to become more common,” Wylie says.

The underground car park is provided with ventilation and carbon monoxide monitors and controls.

Countdown project Work on the Countdown Mt Roskill project included the demolition of an existing office warehouse structure, and the erection of a new 4200sqm supermarket, 5000sqm underground carpark, plus an exterior carpark and landscaping.

Watts and Hughes Construction enjoyed a positive relationship with both the client and architect throughout the Mt Roskill Countdown project. “It was a positive job,” contract manager Jim Wylie says. “We had a particularly good relationship with BSM Architects and the client’s project manager, Ken Watters of WPH Consultants.”

Retail light fixtures will be dimmable as an energy saving feature to take advantage of natural illumination through roof light when appropriate.

All fit-out works were completed within the original Watts and Hughes contract period.

Construction involved strip and spread footings founded on rock or engineered fill with precast perimeter retaining walls. The underside of the slab on grade and retaining walls were waterproofed with Sika Bentonite to give a completely dry underground parking area.

The supermarket floor comprised a 200mm post-tensioned slab placed in four stages. The largest section required 425 cubic metres of concrete and was placed using three concrete pumps.

A mezzanine area was formed using riband-plank construction and provides space for mechanical plant, offices, IT, lunchrooms, staff areas and toilets.

Exterior cladding is made up of glazed shop front, composite aluminium panels, precast, titan board, glass reinforced concrete and aluminium louvres. The cladding is stepped in a number of locations, while overlapping canopies at differing levels give an element of interest and sophistication to the complex.

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www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 77

Project/Construction | Watts and Hughes Construction Major projects Watts and Hughes Construction has completed a number of other significant projects in recent months and is looking forward to a positive future.

Watts and Hughes recently completed a $20 million project that involved building a new Farmers store and retail shops in Pukekohe.

It was one of the company’s biggest projects last year.

“We have two design and build warehouse projects underway for Goodman Novak Properties. We do a number of school projects and are just finishing the Carmel College performing arts centre and library,” Wylie says.

Watts and Hughes completed the new Counties East Police headquarters at Flatbush in April last year. The high quality facility provides offices, muster rooms, locker rooms, interview suites and administration areas to service Police traffic operations, crime squad and CIB. The 2500sqm building is over three levels.

Servicing clients for the long term

With the economy beginning to improve, Watts and Hughes Construction’s project portfolio is continuing to grow.

Jim Wylie says business has picked up this year, after a difficult few years due to the economic recession.

“Things seem to be getting better and the developers are coming back. The design-andbuild work is coming back, which is work we haven’t seen for a while. We’re more positive this year than we’ve been for a while,” he says.

The bright modern interior of the new Countdown at Mt Roskill.

“We’ve passed through the harder times and are looking forward to the coming year.”

Major projects completed by Watts and Hughes in recent months include: • Countdown Stoddard Road, Mt Roskill, $12 million

He says Watts and Hughes’ association with each client does not end when the project is completed. “If there is a problem we go back, even if it’s out of warranty. If there’s a problem we will fix it. It’s that kind of responsibility to the building that we have and if there is a genuine problem, we will go and fix it.”

Watts and Hughes employs highly skilled staff who are committed to looking after their customers. “We’re a positive contractor and are keen to work with people who want

• Pukekohe office and retail development, $20 million

Farmers is the anchor retail tenant of the new development at Pukekohe, built by Watts and Hughes Construction.

<

Watts and Hughes Construction enjoys a lot of repeat business from clients, which Wylie attributes to the quality product the company delivers on time and to budget.

• STRUCTURAL

“We’d rather be involved and offer suggestions right the way through to get a better quality finish. You don’t need to spend more money if you know what needs to be done – we have that expertise.”

<

“We’ve done a lot of work for New Zealand Police and for schools over the last three or four years.”

to do quality developments. We like to be proactive and don’t want to just tender jobs,” says Wylie.

• Silverdale Medical Centre, $8.8 million • Shalom Court, St Johns, $2.25 million • Carmel College, North Shore, $6.2 million • Counties East Police headquarters, Flatbush, $6 million • Mid City Centre, Auckland city, $3 million • Rongomai Sports Centre, South Auckland, $1.8 million.

STEEL • METALWORK • CODED WELDING •

BALUSTRADING • FORM WORK <

Watts and Hughes Construction recently completed a $20 million project that involved building a new Farmers store and retail shops in Pukekohe.

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www.insulationservices.co.nz 78 May/June 2013 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Project/Construction | Set Point Technology

Set Point Technology is a North Shore based company specialising in all areas of domestic, commercial and industrial air conditioning, ventilation, heat pumps and refrigeration. It can also provide solutions for cold storage, heating and dust/humidity control for the commercial and industrial sectors.

With more than 25 years of combined trade experience in the industry, Set Point Technology offers cost effective engineered solutions and is an accredited installer for Mitsubishi, Temperzone, Hitachi, Toshiba and Daikin heat pumps among other brands and equipment.

“We install, supply and service a wide range of heat pumps and air conditioners to meet any heating or cooling needs,” owner Paul Hefer says.

Having access to the latest technology and with its expertise supported by specialist suppliers both locally and abroad, Set Point Technology is able to meet any client’s requirements. The company also has contractor associations to cover required specialist disciplines.

Set Point Technology is committed to providing its customers with the best in engineering, products, maintenance and management delivering the following benefits: 1. The customer is ensured of a constant level of professional service upheld with ethics, trustworthiness and reliability.

Clearing up the air - Projects are successfully completed on time, every time - Healthier and safer working and production environments.

HVAC Systems The main purposes of a heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system are to help maintain good indoor air quality through adequate ventilation with filtration and provide thermal comfort.

The choice and design of a HVAC system can also affect many other high performance goals, including water consumption (water cooled air conditioning equipment) and acoustics.

Most air conditioners also function as dehumidifiers. They take excess water from the air and use it to help cool the unit before getting rid of the water through a hose to the outside. Other units use the condensed moisture to improve efficiency by routing the cooled water back into the system to be reused.

Comfort applications aim to provide an indoor environment that remains relatively constant, in a range preferred by people, despite changes in external weather conditions or in internal heat loads.

Air conditioning makes deep plan buildings feasible, for otherwise they’d have to be built narrower or with light wells, so that inner spaces receive sufficient outdoor air Air conditioners help clean a home or business via natural ventilation. Air conditioning also premise’s air as well. Most indoor units have allows buildings to be taller, since wind filters that catch dust, pollen, mold spores speed increases significantly with altitude, and other allergens, as well as smoke and making natural ventilation impractical for everyday dirt found in the air. very tall buildings.

2. Same day back up service which is supported by a follow-up ‘customer call care facility’.

What Set Point Technology offers:

3. A highly motivated and dedicated company that backs its customers ensuring...

• Programmed maintenance, service and repairs • Refrigeration solutions

- Reduction in down time of equipment - Reduction of product/production loss due to equipment failure - More effective management and control of your work/production area and product quality

Set Point Technology Unit 3, 11 Arrenway Drive Rosedale North Shore Auckland T (09) 281 4565 M 021 288 2446 E paul@setpointtech.co.nz www.setpointtech.co.nz

• Installation of complex construction projects

• Attention to quality • 24/7 service to Auckland locations • IQP and PS3 Certified • CCCA Member.

Choosing Galco is choosing innovation & savings.

Providing quality, innovate products to the HVAC industry and very competitive prices.

P. 09 579 6769

www.galco.co.nz

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz May/June 2013 79

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been seen

Images taken and supplied by Annie Scott Williams

If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Annie at: annie@academy.net.nz

Ray White National Awards Evening Ray White City Apartments Staff | Thursday 14th March 2013 1.

Ray White City Apartments Team

2. Bain Duigan, Tracy Lynch, Josh Lowe 3. Carla Pedersen, Phil Horrobin 4. Michelle Yurak, Judi Yurak 5. Victor Liu, Damian Piggin, Josh Lowe, Mitch Agnew 6. Phil Horrobin & Brian White 7.

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11. Dominic Worthington, Victor Liu 12. Tracy Lynch, Phil Horrobin, Christine Piggin 13. Dipinti Biswas, Deepak Kumarrusha, Senthil Perumal, Phil Horrobin, Damian Piggin 14. Delanie Horrobin, Phil Horrobin, Diane Horrobin 15. Christine Piggin & Amanda Foniti 16. Senthil Perumal, Phil Horrobin, Damian Piggin 17. Amanda Foniti, Christine Piggin, Michelle Yurak 18. Kerry-Anne Hodgson, Kim Urquhart 19. Bain Duigan, Fay Roberts, Virgil Roberts, Damian Piggin, Christine Piggin, Amanda Foniti, Michelle Yurak, Judi Yurak, Jackson Bodle, Mitch Agnew 20. Phil Horrobin, Diane Horrobin 21. Phil Horrobin

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