Auckland Today 96

Issue 96 | September/October 2012

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

Wish upon a star Starship Foundation CEO Brad Clark faces a daily battle to fundraise when instant brand recognition doesn’t automatically translate into dollars

Can house prices be controlled? | Little things that make a big difference The hidden price of hiring | Personal branding for busy leaders The big financial mistakes people make | Tackling time management Reader rewards in this issue…

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Save $50 on your next run of business cards with Colourama - page 2 | Get five percent off any Kiwi Canvas product - page 33 Get your website audited for free by Zeald - page 41 | Grab a half case of wine from myjobspace.co.nz - page 54

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Issue 96 September/October 2012

Contents

Auckland Today

Issue 96

28,926

Viewpoints

Features

In Business

6 Business development Developing products to deliver value

12 Can house prices be controlled?

34 Business development

6 Management

Olly Newland on how to slow down rapidly rising rent and property prices

Why it pays to keep a close eye on the competition

13 Recruitment vs retention The hidden price of hiring

7 Human resources Getting your head in the game; the cost of being at work in body, but not in mind

ABC circulation as at 30/06/12

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz HEAD OFFICE Academy House 47B Birmingham Drive Middleton PO Box 1879 Christchurch

MANAGING DIRECTOR

7 Politics Labour Party leader David Shearer talks about the need to be hiring, not firing

8 Finance Big mistakes people aged 55 to 65 make

Gary Collins

8 Legalities

GENERAL MANAGER

Trademark attorney Angela Searle explains the Madrid Protocol’s influence on international trademarks and what this means for you

Rebecca Harris

OPERATIONS MANAGER Di Barclay

ADMINISTRATION Kylie Moore ADMIN MANAGER Kelly Clarke Lucy Neill Judy Slater Stacey Coy Rachel Cooper

SALES & ADVERTISING Miranda Telfer SALES EXECUTIVES Grant Williams Melissa Sinclair Mogens Petersen Anthony Patrickson Evaon Watkins Melissa Kala Annie Scott-Williams Stuart Gunn Abhishek Jain Clive Greenwood George Ziegler Kent Caddick

14 Business tips What your company can learn from the military and making meetings matter

15 Small steps Little things that make a big difference

16 An environmental ultimatum The Kiwi teenager who challenged the global community to step up and protect the planet

Website design manager Suzanne Carter says selling online is all about communicating

9 Productivity Why your business won’t grow until you learn to delegate

10 Technology Our gadget guru Ian Knott reviews the Xperia P, Sony’s latest smartphone

10 Events diary This is where you find out what’s on near you

38 Focus Have a smashing good time at the Royal Oak Racquets Club and Pukekohe Park races ahead

42 Property and construction Getting the right cover with Kiwi Roofing

46 Agribusiness Inventor and scientist Dr John Baker has dedicated more than 30 years to the development of Cross Slot No-Tillage Systems, a revolutionary way of sowing seeds. Discover why no-tillage is a no-brainer

17 Tackling time management How to manage your most precious resource – your time

18 Greening the silver screen

9 Online

Kagi Jewellery’s precious gems, Vanilla Homewares and Clothing’s house of beautiful things and how Scullys’ nature care range captures the sweet scent of success

Peace activist, poet, playwright and environmental film director Kathleen Gallagher tells it like it is

19 Personal branding for busy business leaders Although your online personal brand is becoming increasingly important, it has also become harder to control

20 Cover story Brad Clark, CEO of the Starship Foundation, faces a daily battle to fundraise in an increasingly tough marketplace

48 Initiatives Top tips for a fabulous Christmas function, the place to scale new heights is Extreme Edge, perfect for personal development or team building missions

50 Goods and services Econergy’s cheap way to heat home water and Highway Electrical’s complete capabilities

55 Hospitality It’s tough to beat a good curry and India Gate in Epsom, the Curry Leaf in Onehunga and Indian Pepper in Panmure have menus to make the mouth water. And we find find deli delights and market fare at Pukeko’s Food store

NEWSROOM Jonathon Taylor EDITOR Corazon Miller JOURNALISTS Karen Pasco Marie Sherry Phone: Fax: Email:

24 WOWing the world

18

03 940 4734 0800 555 054 editor@academy.net.nz

26 Zero tolerance When it comes to climate change and the environment, ‘keep calm and carry on’ just doesn’t cut it

PRODUCTION Ian Knott PRODUCTION MANAGER Carolynne Brown PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR Sarah Betman DESIGNERS Janelle Pike Jarred Shakespeare Jenna Day Phone: Fax: Email:

The World of Wearable Arts is spinning onto the global stage

28 Lifestyles

55

Bling for your fingers, bags for the hand, a PC packing some punch, a Spanish abyss, island life and wine, retro lamps, espresso machines and more

03 940 4732 0800 555 054 production@academy.net.nz

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Cover photograph by Michelle Carlson Photography: www.mcphoto.co.nz Disclaimer: This publication is provided on the basis that A-Mark Publishing is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services.

A-Mark Publishing expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2012 by A-Mark Publishing (NZ) Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

ISSN 1173-1508 (Print) | ISSN 2230-6188 (Online)

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4 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Viewpoint | Business Development/Management

Developing products to deliver value

Keeping an eye on the competition Kevin Vincent is a director of business improvement consultants Vincent and Nugent Limited www.vincentnugent.co.nz

Jonathan Prince is the managing director of Motovated Design and Analysis. For further information visit www.motovated.co.nz

The design process is a tough thing to get right. Many companies would like to develop a new product but few really understand what it takes to develop a successful product, the right way to go about it or the real costs in behind it.

The result is often a project that, if you’re lucky, gets to market simply well over budget.

If you’re not lucky, gets to market very late. Or if you’re particularly unlucky - gets to market over budget, late and, low and behold, it doesn’t actually meet the customer’s need!

Sound familiar?

Interestingly enough, the scenario that gets targeted the most is the cost overruns as this is the easiest to measure and the most tangible. It is however, the least of a company’s worries in terms of return on investment.

It’s a tough market out there and your competitors are working just as hard to get their product to market and no doubt they see the same opportunities you do too. All products have a finite life in the market and in this day and age, that life span is only getting shorter.

If a product is late to market, it doesn’t extend the life of the product; it simply reduces the ability of that product to generate a return. And this impacts it in the most profitable years. Product adoption speed doesn’t necessarily change and neither does the product’s twilight. It’s the number of profitable years that get impacted.

When developing product, companies really need to focus on utilising a robust development process that: • Identifies the core product requirements early • Ensures the product targets the ‘latent’ or underlying need of the customer • Gets that product to market as quickly as possible.

This brings me to my next point of really understanding the latent, or unmet, customer need and developing your product to target that need to set it apart from the competition.

Many companies are notorious for just jumping right into designing a product without the upfront market research and analysis that’s required to ensure their product will hit the mark.

We’ve all been there... someone high up in the company, rightly or wrongly, perceives a need.

Without any real market research, the ‘urgent’ project gets thrust in front of the engineering team. Everyone else puts their five cents in and the project morphs into an uncontrollable beast.

Budgets go out the window, estimated timeframes are long since passed, the engineers have their heads buried in their hands and management says ‘what a waste of money that was’.

If companies are to survive and prosper I’m a firm believer we must innovate to create ‘value added’ product that commands a premium and sets itself apart from the competition.

However, to do this without incurring unsustainable costs requires a well thought out and well executed process. Too often companies cut these simple corners only to find that it bears a huge cost.

If you’ve been struggling with your product development costs or are looking to start developing product and not sure how to take the first step, you can save yourself a lot of unnecessary heartache by setting up a robust development process before you go any further.

About the author: Jonathan has an impressive track-record in product design. His experience stems from working for some of the leading design companies in NZ, including Tait Radio Communications, Formway, Intercad and InFact. Jonathan is passionate about NZ innovation and has a strong focus on business development, process, and sustainable design.

The next Successful Product Development seminar Jonathan is running is with two other companies and in conjunction with New Zealand Trade and Exchange on September 13 in the NZ Trade and Enterprise boardroom at 139 Quay Street, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. To register visit: seminars@motovated.co.nz

Can you sell?

If so, we want you !

Increased competition is a reality and driven by many factors, including the emergence of a global marketplace, the increased number of companies and new technology that makes it easier for them to enter new markets.

Competition is great. It drives you to continually improve. It drives the quest for and the development of establishing a sustainable competitive advantage which is achieved through differentiation and unique selling propositions.

You can ignore your competition and lose, copy them and be a follower, or lead them and become a winner. Winners are always more successful. Take an offensive position not a defensive one and devote time to continual improvement.

The process should start with a general assessment of its product positioning, how it compares with yours on price and quality and its relative market share. Secondly ascertain its strengths and weaknesses and likely next moves.

Areas of strength Capabilities?

Competitive advantages?

USP’s (unique selling points)?

Resources, assets, people?

Experience, knowledge, data?

Financial reserves, likely returns?

Innovative aspects?

Price, value, quality?

Accreditations etc?

Management?

Areas of Weakness Lack of competitive strength?

Reputation, presence and reach?

Own known vulnerabilities?

Timescales, deadlines and pressures?

Cashflow, start-up cash-drain?

Continuity, supply chain robustness?

Morale, commitment, leadership?

Accreditations, etc?

Management?

Areas for opportunity

The next step is to counter these initiatives or deficiencies with your own strategy.

Market developments?

Competitor analysis will assist you to understand your competitive advantages and disadvantages relative to competitors.

It will give you a greater understanding of competitors’ past, present, and most importantly, future strategies. It will assist strategies to achieve competitive advantage in the future and it will help forecast the returns that may be made from future investments.

Industry or lifestyle trends?

The following questions should be considered: • Who are your competitors?

• What threats do they pose?

• What are the objectives of your competitors?

• What strategies are your competitors pursuing and how successful are these?

• What are the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors?

• How are your competitors likely to respond to any changes to the way you do business?

Competitors’ vulnerabilities?

Technology development and innovation?

Global influences?

New/niche markets?

Tactics: eg, surprise, major contracts?

Business and product development?

Partnerships, agencies, distribution?

Potential threats Political effects?

Legislative effects?

Environmental effects?

Competitor intentions - various?

Market demand?

New technologies, services, ideas?

Vital contracts and partners?

Loss of key staff?

Sustainable financial backing?

Economy - home, abroad?

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6 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Viewpoint | HR/Politics

Getting your head in the game 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

Presenteeism is the act of being at work but not really ‘there’. When employees are physically present but mentally absent the loss of productivity costs New Zealand businesses a minimum of $4 billion each year.

Mercola, states “I have long maintained that your emotional state plays a role in nearly every physical disease, from heart disease, to depression, to arthritis and cancer. If your thoughts and emotions play such a significant role in modifying your biology and your health (and I believe they do) then treating your emotions becomes an essential part of optimal health.”

New Zealand Treasury assesses the costs associated with absenteeism, presenteeism, working less and not working at all due topoor physical and emotional health. In its November 2010 paper it estimated the cost of lost hours at somewhere between $4 billion and $11.5 billion. Absenteeism accounted for just three percent of that figure, compared to 55 percent for presenteeism!

If emotional (leading to physical) ill health is costing New Zealand businesses between $4 billion and $11.5 billion per annum, it makes sense for companies to address this issue. Unfortunately taking a day off for physical ill health is still met with annoyance by many employers, let alone taking a mental health day.

Of the remainder, not working accounted for 23 percent and working less making up 19 percent of the estimated cost. This research shows that presenteeism is vastly more detrimental than staff being absent.

According to a Ministry of Health survey, New Zealand has one of the highest prevalences of anxiety, mood and substance abuse disorders in the world. Studies have found that emotional health issues diminish productivity far more than physical health issues. The two however, may be inextricably linked.

Many medical professionals are convinced that unresolved emotional issues are a major contributor to many illnesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), stress related illness accounts for approximately 85 percent of all illness and disease. Dr Bruce Lipton, a cellular biologist and former professor of anatomy is convinced that figure is over 95 percent.

Stress is a complicated cascade of physical and biochemical responses to emotional stimuli. “As we think our thoughts and feel our feelings, our bodies respond with a complex array of shifts. Each thought or feeling unleashes a particular cascade of biochemicals in our organs. Each experience triggers genetic changes in our cells. Thoughts and feelings turn sets of genes on and off in complex relationships,” says Dr Dawson Church in his book The Genie in Your Genes.

New York Times best selling author and world leader in disease prevention, Dr Joseph

Even in the mental health industry this is not an acceptable reason for being absent.

A psychiatric nurse who has worked within the Canterbury District Health Board for over 20 years stated in an interview “If I said I was taking a ‘mental health day’ they would see me as weak and a slacker”.

Such is the culture within our own mental health system that she was reluctanct to speak publicly on this subject and wished to remain un-named.

Taking emotional health days may not be the answer however, addressing emotional health certainly is. Many employers allow staff to visit a doctor during work hours.

Visiting an emotional health professional is not looked upon as favourably and may attract derogatory comments.

One step businesses could take towards addressing this problem is looking at the workplace culture in terms of attitude towards health, in particular emotional health. Many businesses still have the culture that staff should keep their stress or emotional issues to themselves, be strong and not let the team down. Unless the workplace culture changes, no progress can be made to lessen the impact of presenteeism.

Despite the appalling statistics, most employers don’t need studies to tell them that psychologically healthy people make better decisions and have better interpersonal behaviour. Basically, for colleagues and for customers, they are nicer people to be around.

We need to be hiring, not firing David Shearer is the MP for Mt Albert and leader of the Labour Party

In 1881, a group of South Island farmers and businessmen established Summit Wool Spinners in Oamaru. For more than a century it forged a proud heritage of local skills and expertise in blending, spinning, yarn-making and exporting.

It grew into a high-tech international business; one of North Otago’s biggest employers. But in June this year, 50 jobs were lost at Summit Wool Spinners’ Oamaru plant.

That’s 50 households down an income.

This is happening too often. Seventy jobs were lost at Onehunga’s Norman Ellison Carpets in June. Seventy-one at Wiri engineering firm Flotech the same month.

Fifty-five were lost at Wellington’s Gould’s Fine Foods in July. Some of those staff had been loyal employees for more than 20 years.

There are lots of reasons why businesses falter or fail. But these weren’t fragile startups, or badly run. They were once very productive businesses.

The Government blames it on Europe. But our major trading partners, Australia and China, haven’t been in recession at all. In the last three years New Zealand’s GDP has grown just 0.4 per cent a year. The other non-European OECD countries have grown twice as fast as that. And in the same period Australia’s GDP grew 2.8 percent per year.

We’re falling behind.

Meanwhile we’re losing 50,000 good people a year to Australia because our wages are so low.

I listened to a speech recently by Professor Göran Roos, a world leader in innovation and intellectual capital. His research shows that each job in manufacturing generates between two to five jobs in the rest of the economy.

Flip that on its head and – given the right conditions – a few clusters of vibrant startups could help turn the tide in New Zealand. That’s what Labour wants to facilitate, and we have a plan for how to achieve it.

His research also revealed the countries that have recovered best from the global financial crisis are all focused on high valueadded export-oriented manufacturing. By manufacturing, I mean ultra-modern, clean, green, high-tech, precise: biotech, nanotech, cognitive science and ICT. What this all adds up to is the need for change. We need to modernise our economy and get some dynamism back into our productive business and export sectors. We need more of our own capital: this means a universal savings scheme.

We need to fix the tax system so we promote growth in exports instead of penalising it: this means a capital gains tax, and investing in science and innovation R&D. Our private sector spend on R&D is one third of the OECD average. Growing this will mean new products and ideas to take to the rest of the world.

We need to take the hard decisions and steadily raise the retirement age to 67. It’s essential that we provide for older New Zealanders and are fair to younger New Zealanders.

The Government also blames it on the earthquakes. They were devastating, but economically the rebuild of Canterbury now presents a source of growth.

Labour is thrifty. We ran budget surpluses for nine years, leaving the incoming National government with among the lowest government debt in the world.

We have tried to shield ourselves from declining living standards by borrowing money and selling assets. Consequently, our overseas liabilities from personal borrowing are among the highest in the world.

A modern economy like this will put a higher value on innovation, talent, skills, education and training, because these will enable New Zealanders to take advantage of the job opportunities of a 21st century economy. So we’ll invest in skills and education all the way through from early childhood to post-doctoral.

The IMF says our currency is persistently overvalued – currently by about 15 percent.

Labour is totally committed to Reserve Bank independence, and to a low inflation target.

Then we’ll see innovative exporters like Summit Wool Spinners hiring, not firing.

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Viewpoint | Finance/Legalities

The big mistakes people aged 55 to 65 make

Protecting your identity

Angela Searle is a trademark attorney for Trade Mark Intelligence who works with both SMEs and global corporations. She can be reached at angela@tmintelligence.co.nz

Alan Clarke is an authorised financial adviser with 24 years’ experience in the finance sector and can be reached at alan@acfs.co.nz

Retiring too soon This is a common problem, too many people think they have to stop at age 65, before finding out just what cash flow they will have/need in retirement. If it is just too little, they would be better working a little longer.

Just by working say two years longer means you can save for two more years, probably enough for an extra two years in retirement.

Spending too much This is pretty obvious, do your homework and budgeting. However you may plan to gradually spend your money and “die broke” (easier said than done). Be smart and find independent advice to help you monitor how fast you are spending your money. Then if you “live too long” hopefully you won’t have to live out your golden years in poverty.

Spending too much on housing It is not much good owning a $500,000 house and having only $50,000 in the bank to supplement your (rather lean) govt super of $26,000 pa. Don’t get to retirement living in a castle with too little cash to supplement your super.

Worrying too much The news media will drag you into the mire.

Turn the news off and get out and about.

thousands. An independent adviser might help you see the wood from the trees.

Failing to understand what diversification really means You can’t pick the hot investments, no one can. Rather diversify properly and you will make good money in good times, and survive the bad times pretty well too.

Moving house too often while looking for utopia Utopia does not exist yet. I have seen people move up to seven times in five years looking for it. Imagine the moving costs, real estate agents fees, cost of new carpet, or curtains, or kitchen etc. It’s money down the drain!

Not living and spending too little You can’t take it with you. Get advice and find out how much you can safely spend if you are worried.

Not realising how much you can do in NZ on less than you might think There are dozens and dozens of free things you can do in NZ with an ordinary car and an inexpensive caravan. Be adventurous, go on the road and enjoy it all, we have a beautiful country.

Not taking sabbaticals while still working

Getting burn out, then quitting work (retiring too soon) because you are exhausted, is not smart. It will be cheaper in the long run to Knowledge is power. Learn about investments take breaks as you go along, so that you can as you save for retirement, and probably avoid have more quality of life and if necessary the disaster some people incurre when they extend your working life. A lot of people like put all their money into one or two finance working; but don’t get burned out and then companies. quit for the wrong reasons.

Not learning enough about investment before retirement

Helping children too much and leaving themselves short

Believing that you can pick the hot investments

Love them or not, they may have 25 to 40 years of working life in front of them, you don’t. Be careful, keep most of your money back for yourself.

No one can, rather buy quality and diversify widely. Beware of some apparently wonderful companies; the costs can be too high. After all someone has to pay for their big buildings and glossy brochures - and it will be you.

Not getting on-going financial & planning advice leading up to retirement If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Get advice – if it costs say $150 to $200 pa that is peanuts compared to what it might do for you. It might get you organised. It might save you thousands. It might even save you tens of

Your trademark is potentially one of your most valuable business assets. Your ability to use it, unimpeded, is something many of us take for granted. Come December, the Madrid Protocol is anticipated to come into effect in New Zealand and while this provides a simple, economic and flexible means to register your trademark overseas, it also means your mark is under more potential threat than ever before.

This could, for example, mean that you are unable to expand your business into geographical areas in which you are not currently trading.

While the system will make it easier to file in multiple countries, it also makes it more accessible for overseas entities to file here – thus increasing the risk of someone else registering your mark (if you have not done so), meaning that there may be competing rights to your mark.

raised during the registration process – and objections are commonplace.

It is expected that trademark applications and objections by foreign companies are likely to increase, so before this comes into effect, it is important to consider the importance to your business of having adequate protection of your trademarks.

If you do business overseas or have goods manufactured offshore, protecting your right to use your name on the international playing field has never been more important.

If you have not registered your trademark – your brand name, then you leave yourself wide open for someone else to swipe it from While working in Australia, I became familiar underneath you. with the operation of the Madrid Protocol, so here are some insights on what it means for I can register a trademark myself – why would I use an attorney?

New Zealand businesses.

Do you file your own tax returns? Would you What is the Madrid Protocol? write your own will? Registering a mark is the same. Yes you can do it, but it’s a case of you It is an international system, which allows don’t know what you don’t know. If you get businesses to file a single international it wrong, you might not know until someone trademark application and designate challenges you or tries to steal your mark out multiple countries in one application. This from under you… they might even succeed! makes the process more streamlined and saves time and money. There are currently The Protocol, while simplifying the process, 87 countries which are party to the Protocol, brings added complexity to getting the right which include some of New Zealand’s protection in the right countries. Effective major trading partners such as Australia, US, searches become even more important, and for someone not used to doing them, they can Europe, China and Japan. be difficult.

The Madrid Protocol also simplifies the subsequent management of the mark, since Many self-filers also go wrong by defining their goods/services too narrowly, therefore a simple, single procedural step serves not allowing them scope to expand the breath to renew the registration and to record of their goods or services being provided subsequent changes in ownership, or in the under their existing mark – or by filing an name or address of the holder rather than application to register a logo, whereas they recording each change for each would obtain much stronger protection if just individual registration. the word mark was registered.

Why it is important that I ensure my An attorney will also have more success trademark is protected? at overturning any objections that are

Registering your mark is like insurance – it protects your good name. The name you have worked hard to establish. A professional puts you in the strongest possible position, now and into the future.

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$450 for training of all your team + promotion of your website Reserve your place now info@childconnection.org.nz Visit our website and complete our contact form www.childconnection.og.nz

During 3 hours workshop we will teach you: 1) Games that children play between themselves 2) Massage skills that relax children 3) Homework for parents

8 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Viewpoint | Online/Productivity

Don’t sell - communicate

Suzanne Carter is the business development manager for website design and development company Limelight Online Ltd. To find out more visit www.limelightonline.co.nz

As every business owner knows, an effective marketing strategy is key to promoting your services/ products in order to grow your customer base and your revenue.

Traditionally, marketing has taken the form of print and radio advertising, seminars, emails to mailing lists and tele-marketing.

This is called outbound marketing as you are pushing your products and services out to your target market.

Inbound marketing focuses on driving relevant traffic to your website, converting that traffic to leads and finally, turning those leads into sales. Relevant traffic is driven to your website through an effective content marketing strategy, social media and effective search engine optimisation techniques.

This form of marketing is built on the belief that if companies provide valuable content and information to buyers on a regular basis, buyers will ultimately reward those companies with their business and loyalty.

Inbound marketing strategies provide a stronger impact by using online channels and in most cases, for significantly less spend. One of the main inbound marketing strategies is content marketing.

Content marketing is the art of communicating with prospective and existing customers without selling. Instead of pitching or attempting to persuade someone to buy your product or hire your services, you’re delivering information that educates buyers and makes them more intelligent.

Instead of developing ads designed to interrupt customers, you’re looking to create targeted, useful and relevant content for your audience using a variety of mediums including (but by no means limited to): Blogs. Write an informative blog that addresses a particular hot topic. Guest blogging is also a good idea to get your business name and brand known. It also builds your brand trust and credibility.

Videos. Produce a short video explaining how to use one of your products or provide an answer to a problem consumers in your industry might be having.

Podcasts. A podcast is like a radio show but instead of being broadcast live it is recorded then distributed online e.g. via your website.

E-newsletters. Put together a mailing list of your customers and potential customers and send them monthly short but informative newsletters.

White papers. Publish a white paper on a particular topic that is impacting your industry.

Webinars. Webinars are essentially web based seminars, so either arrange one with guest speakers or be a guest speaker yourself.

It is recommended that you do your research first to find out which channels your target market is most actively engaged with.

Any content you produce must be of a high quality and relevant to your business services or products and to your customers’ needs. You may need to hire the services of a professional copywriter to help you with getting the quality, relevance and tone right.

Once produced, your great content needs to be distributed and shared. This is where social media comes in. Get people engaging you - talking about your content, sharing it with their friends and followers, commenting on it.

It also must not be understated that content marketing is a very effective way of generating traffic, links and referrals to your site. All this will help your website perform well in the search engines which again increase your chances of being found by people looking for what your business offers.

Inbound marketing can build brands, drive engagements and, ultimately, lead to vital conversions. For these reasons, no company — no matter how big or small — can afford to ignore its benefits.

However, it doesn’t happen overnight! As with any marketing strategy patience is most definitely a virtue.

So focus on building connections and relationships via social media, produce amazing content and make sure that you communicate it and distribute it effectively.

Share the burden

Robyn Pearce is a time management expert, helping people turn time challenges into high productivity. Visit www.gettingagrip.com

If you’ve got the desire to build a big business, if you see yourself as a budding entrepreneur, and you’ve never read ‘The E-myth’ by Michael Gerber, rush out and get it immediately.

One of the key points Gerber makes is that being self-employed is not the same as being a business owner. If you’re good at what you do and decide, based on that skill, to go into your own business, all you’ve done is buy yourself a job.

A business owner, on the other hand, isn’t wedded to the service or product that’s provided. They see themselves as separate from what the company does and if they’ve done their job well, the company can not only operate quite well without them, but is also an entity that can be sold.

Not sure what you can delegate? Don’t know if you can afford it? Try writing down a list of all the regular tasks you do in a week and estimate the amount of time spent on each activity.

Now, pretend you’re paying someone a wage appropriate to each task and put a dollar value beside each item, based on the ‘guestimated’ hours spent. For example, bookkeeping might be worth $35 per hour. If you’ve spent two hours this week doing the books you’d put $70 beside that one. If, on the other hand, you’ve done data entry, that may be worth $15 per hour. You’ve taken 30 minutes, so $7.50 goes in the column.

Now, ask yourself: “What is my hourly rate when I’m engaged in income-generating work? If I were able to free up some of these other tasks, would I be able to do more of my work, and if so, what income could I generate?”

If it’s higher than the value of the miscellany of tasks you’ve spent your days ploughing through, you’re doing the wrong work and you’re underpaying yourself. Find a parttimer or contractor until you can afford to pay more wages and keep your focus on your work.

Or if someone else could do the work far more efficiently than you, leaving you free

to focus on the work you’re best at – find them.

Every start-up business goes through this soul-searching. The need almost always comes before we have the money to pay for help, but if we don’t take that step we’ll never have the money to pay anyone, including ourselves!

Taking time As I talk to business people in all industries and at all levels it seems that interruptions are the single biggest issue.

We’ve come out of the dark ages where managers never communicated anything to their underlings, through the development of open communication and empowerment, to the point where many people feel they have to be available all day.

Open plan layouts compound the problem.

It’s easy to communicate with your team, problems can be shared rapidly, expensive floor space is saved and internal partitioning is relatively inexpensive. But they create another whole raft of problems, headed by interruptions. Open and free communication is great – but not that great! However, there are ways to minimise the down side.

How much more work would you get done if you had one uninterrupted hour a day? Does this sound good?

It’s easy to achieve. Create a company culture of Red Time. Translated, this means that everyone gets an hour a day when no one is allowed to interrupt. Colleagues take your calls, no interruptions are allowed from either internal or external sources, and you can concentrate on the ‘real’ work, or the ‘thinking’ work, impossible to do when fifty thousand people keep interrupting you.

As more and more people in a company adopt the idea it becomes easier to implement, for others start to experience the benefits.

A basic rule for Red Time is you must be meticulous about quickly returning calls and attending to people’s problems when you’re done.

If you have a lot of concentration work, try two blocks – one in the morning and one in the afternoon. And look for a time that impacts as little as possible on other people.

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 9

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Viewpoints | Technology

News | Events Diary

Sony’s super smart Xperia P

Events diary

What’s happening on the business and entertainment front

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 18 Ian Knott has been commentating on various forms of technology for the past 16 years. He’s had columns on gadgets, gaming, computing and digital entertainment in many newspapers, magazines and websites in New Zealand and overseas.

Since paying out Ericsson in a divorce settlement, Sony is travelling alone in the smartphone stakes. Its first solo effort is the Xperia NXT series – a range of three phones from the high-end Xperia S, which sits proudly side by side with the iPhone 4S and the Samsung Galaxy SIII, the mid-range Xperia P and the more affordable sibling – the Xperia U. I got to take the Xperia P for a test drive and despite having an ever-present bad taste in my mouth from reviewing way too many Sony Ericsson Symbian-powered phones in the past, I found the Xperia P an absolute joy to use.

Google’s Gingerbread Android 2.3 operating system runs beautifully on the Xperia P, but the unit is fully upgradable to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. The price point and size of the handset places it head to head with Nokia’s Lumia 800 Windows phone. But there are several redeeming features hiding within the Xperia P that boost the model above its immediate rivals.

At 120g, the phone is no lightweight and at 10.5mm thick the sensation in the hand is a solid one. There’s no flexing or creaking when the phone is put under reasonable pressures, unlike the Samsung Galaxy range which feel like they could snap at any moment.

The scratch resistant screen holds up to the rigors of daily use very well, but the plastic framing around the Xperia P will soon start to show the knocks and scratches. There is also a small gap/groove separating the screen from the casing - which is probably the most disappointing design flaw.

If you’re like me and keep your mobile in your pocket for much of the day, then this groove will soon become a collector of fluff, lint and dust, further tarnishing the otherwise slick aesthetics.

Speaking of slick aesthetics, the crystal clear strip that encompasses the standard three home, back and menu buttons is a stunning

Communication; Why are they like that? – Auckland Chamber of Commerce In this course you learn how to; create a better understanding of behavioural styles and how one style can impact on another, know how different styles contribute towards building balanced teams, value and support diversity for optimum performance, reduce conflict and manage difficult conversations more effectively and strengthen your assertiveness, empathy, listening and rapport building skills. For more information go to www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

tools to create the plan, cascade long term strategies with short and mid-term tactics and how to review, monitor and adapt strategic plans. For more information go to www.auckland.chamber.co.nz

THURSDAY OCTOBER 4 Kickstart your business In the dynamic world of online media, launching a business today is vastly different.

Business owners, entrepreneurs and leaders who want to succeed, survive and stand out from the crowd don’t just need a vision and a little cash, they need a solid, bottom-to-top plan for thriving.

Discover exactly how to plot a course to success for your business at this year’s Kickstart Your Business conference. Listen to a Marketing Mastery – Auckland Chamber range of industry experts share their secrets of Commerce to success. For more information go to www.

Why do 90percent of market efforts fail? Find kicstartyourbusiness.co.nz out what it takes to successfully build your brand and market your business successfully.

At this conference you will discover the TUESDAY OCTOBER 9 vital elements of successful marketing, including campaign strategies to ensure your Future proof: The visual city - simulation and Visualisation of the urban marketing efforts are successful, whatever medium you use. For more information go to environment – University of Auckland’s School of Architecture and Planning www.aucklandchamber.co.nz

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 19

inclusion. Even for an old cynical tech-head like myself, this pressure sensitive strip had me grinning in appreciation.

The more you use the Xperia P, the more the built-in handy features begin to integrate themselves into your everyday life.

Clever NFC capabilities allow your phone to be used with the latest tap-compliant technology where just a touch of your phone will pay for services or acquire information from a vendor - something that will become increasingly more common in times to come.

The Xperia P also comes with four SmartTags - which can be programmed to do almost anything. Keep one beside the bed, one in the car, one at the office and simply touching them with your phone will activate preset commands. Starting up GPS navigation in the car and activating Bluetooth, or turning on WiFi when you get into the office and opening emails or reminders. They’re a clever innovation that can save a lot of time if your average day is dominated by digital devices.

The 8MP rear camera is as good as the industry topping high-end devices, but the inferior front camera is nothing to be proud of. The inclusion of a mini HDMI port next to the standard mini USB is a great touch, allowing the full 1080p video taken on your phone to be easily transferred to your TV. The Xperia P displays features that many more expensive phones would be envious of - and at just $649 (exclusive to Vodafone) will no doubt prove to be the mid-priced smartphone of choice to future-proof your mobile phone usage.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 24 Motivation and leadership for managers – Manukau Institute of Technology Motivating and leading your staff can be intimidating prospects for new and experienced managers alike. MIT Business Course Motivation and Leadership for Managers will teach you the theory and practice of leadership and motivation, equipping you with a vital skill-set. You’ll be taught by an experienced industry expert to learn what type of leader you are, how to use psychometric testing, leadership and motivation techniques and how to foster an environment that enables staff to lead. For more information go to: www.manukau.ac.nz

MONDAY OCTOBER 1 Strategic planning for success – Auckland Chamber of Commerce This course provides you with the opportunity and skills to plot your business’ path to success. Learn how to effectively plan your business strategy, as well as training yourself to identify business opportunities. This course is suitable for business owners and managers, will show you how to, identify or embrace your business vision, set effective goals and objectives use SWOT and PESTLE analysis

Attend this lecture given by architecture graduate Simon Ferneyhough who has turned his attention to emerging technologies that support management and improvement of the built environment. He will share his insights into the “Visual City” a concept of the New Zealand innovation catalyst Nextspace, which enables complex virtual city models to be developed and presented.

This technology offers wide-ranging potential benefits to many fields including urban design, infrastructure planning, emergency management and policy and resource management. For more information go to www.auckland.ac.nz

TUESDAY OCTOBER 16 Future Proof: Greening infrastructure University of Auckland’s School of architecture and planning Associate Professor Carol Boyle has been undertaking research in sustainability and its application to engineering for the past 15 years. Her recent focus on urban infrastructure and the built environment aims to assist in shifting cities to become more liveable and healthier environments. This presentation will discuss some of the research around how the greening of infrastructure and built environment may provide one of the major opportunites to achieve sustainability for the urban requirement. For more information go to www.auckland.ac.nz

www.facebook.com/YouthtownNewZealand

Check out Youthtown’s holiday and term programmes

North Shore: 09 444 8355 | Central: 09 379 5430 | Panmure: 09 527 2461| Papakura: 09 297 7386 10 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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31/08/12 1:18 PM

News | Property

Can house prices be controlled?

By Olly Newland

It’s clear that house prices and rents are rising. The media run stories of astounding prices being achieved for what are sometimes old houses in less than mediocre condition.

Various talking heads have been asked “what should be done?” but have had no real solution other than saying more land should be made available. I’m sorry to tell you this, but they are all dreaming.

Let me tell you that more land may be the long term solution, but it will take many years for any benefits to be felt. What are needed are more dramatic moves that will get results without distorting the market.

For starters, a suggested capital gains tax, as some are clamouring for, will have the totally wrong effect. It would drive prices up even further. If such a tax were to be introduced it would result in a mass withdrawal of property off the market.

Think about it. If you have a property that you are considering selling, would you rush it onto the market if you were going to be slugged with tax? Of course not. After all, if you don’t sell you don’t pay tax. It’s a no-brainer.

Worse still, those pushing a capital gains tax want to exempt private homes. Well, that’s even sillier, because private home sales make up the vast majority of the market.

Under that system we will end up with mums and dads flogging off their houses for tax-free gain… leaving house prices to continue to rise.

Look overseas if you want proof positive.

Some of the countries that have capital gains taxes have suffered the worst property crashes. Such a tax does nothing to stop price rises.

Twelve months ago I predicted the coming current rise in property prices and told everyone the reasons why. That some sort of ‘mini bubble’ was forming has become obvious.

“

Twelve months ago I predicted the coming current rise in property prices and told everyone the reasons why. That some sort of ‘mini bubble’ was forming has become obvious.

”

The reasons for the current situation are: 1. The extortionate costs of council charges when building or subdividing 2. Escalating costs of raw materials 3. The loss of tens of thousands of houses because of the leaky homes scandal 4. The loss of thousands of houses from the Christchurch earthquake disaster

5. Slow but steady immigration and increase in population 6. The removal of tax breaks (small as they were) in the 2011 budget was a colossal blunder and I said so at the time. It wasn’t so much the money, it was the message.

The authorities openly stated that they wanted to discourage investment in

Olly Newland

Property Consultant Impartial, expert guidance

For an obligation-free session with Olly, call: 0800 66 22 80

property. Well, they succeeded didn’t they? It discouraged many buyers from going into the market to provide rental accommodation.

7. We have GST on every new house or renovation. Think about it: A newly built $500,000 house carries a GST content of $75,000! So why build? Next door could be a second hand house for sale, GST-free and often loaded with extras 8. The ongoing effect of historically low interest rates cannot be overstated. So long as these low rates exist they have the effect of providing a hefty wage rise to the mortgage home owners as well as allowing borrowers to borrow even more. These low rates are likely to fall even further which will add more fuel to the fire. The worry that interest rates will rise sharply has so far proven to be an empty threat.

scandalously too expensive and make up a disproportionate part of building costs 4. Give first home buyers a grant towards any low cost home. This would only apply to newly built homes and that, along with the GST rebate would give a big boost to builders to provide low cost homes. There’s the nub of the problem: Builders cannot make a profit on cheap houses. Radical thinking is required to solve that conundrum

5. Give encouragement to investors to provide more affordable rental accommodation.

For those who provide long term accommodation, remove some of the more onerous restrictions of the Residential Tenancy Act. The emphasis is on long term.

If tenants could rent for years, free from the threat of eviction, able to call their house or flat a “home”, a lot of pressure Well, some might say it’s easy to criticise, but would come off the rental market. In what can be done? other countries you can lease a home for years if not decades. Think about it: If you Here are a few ideas: could rent back your own home (the one you live in) for, say, 30 years and use the 1. First home buyers should be given a GST money for business or similar would that rebate on new built houses of up to (say) not be attractive? Such a move would take $500,000. First time buyers only and not a lot of pressure off people who currently repeatable. That would be a good start for think they need to buy or face eviction at those who are trying to get on the property relatively short notice. ladder. Australia has something similar and stamp duty is rebated for first home With more than 45 years in the buyers. It’s the same general idea and property game, Olly Newland provides it works a consulting and mentoring service for 2. Reinstate the building depreciation people committed to making serious deduction allowances — thereby send out progress with property investments.

Whether it be buying, selling, holding or the message that being a property owner troubleshooting. If you’re interested in is no longer a sin knowing more, visit Olly’s webpage at 3. Shake up the costs involved through www.ollynewland.co.nz council and water charges. They are

Get skilled advice on residential and commercial property investment from Olly Newland, reknowned property expert, author & Authorised Financial Advisor.

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www.ollynewland.co.nz

12 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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News | Human resources

Recruitment vs retention ...the hidden price of hiring

By Kent Caddick

Surprisingly there are company managers out there who take delight in a high staff turnover.

Every year they can march into their managing director’s office and point to how they have managed not to have to increase the company’s salary or wage bill and some may even be able to claim financial incentives for doing so.

The managing director will often be pleased his senior manager has been able to do this, given the often high percentage of the budget being taken by staff costs. They would feel it was a pointer toward a healthy bottom line.

But is it?

Even those managers and companies who accept that employee turnover hurts their organisation’s bottom line, often fail to fully grasp the total extent to which it affects their business.

There are clearly a number of turnover costs that can be easily quantifiable in relation to staff turnover, but these costs are just the tip of the iceberg.

Human resources website HR.com has estimated that it costs two to three times more to replace a worker than to keep an existing employee - even when you’re replacing an unproductive employee with one who is more efficient. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) estimates that replacing a single employee costs roughly one and half times that employee’s annual salary.

Under the SHRM model, a junior employee on $30,000 per annum, who will only stay for a short time, say two years, will cost the company for their replacement $45,000, or an additional $22,500 in lost profits per year over those two years. If the same employee was encouraged to stay longer, say five years, it would only cost the company $8,000 a year.

There are numerous turnover costs which will never appear on any balance sheet or income statement which can have a serious impact on a firm’s bottom line. Some of the costs associated with employee turnover are unavoidable and must be expected to occur in the normal course of business.

The cost of recruiting new employees takes time and money; from advertising the open position to sifting through resumes, interviewing candidates and training; employee recruiting can be tedious and expensive.

reference checks, drug testing, cost of overtime pay, temporary help and much more.

And once a hiring decision is made, the costs of turnover don’t stop, but rather continue.

Sign on bonuses, relocation costs, and any increases in salary level necessary to attract new talent all add up quickly. The time spent

by HR managers to get onboard and train the new employee can also be costly and unnecessary. These are all tangible costs that could be avoided with a better employee retention strategy.

Consider the effects on productivity that are caused by turnover. It takes on average eight weeks to recruit and hire a new employee.

During this time production can seriously falter. Other employees have to pick up the slack in production, often taking on tasks and responsibilities they are unfamiliar with or untrained in. The negative effect on production caused by turnover doesn’t stop when a new employee is hired.

There is always a learning curve associated with any job; for some it can be short and insignificant, while for many others it can be a considerable period of time. During this time it takes a new employee to “get up to speed” with the rest of the team, production will never be as good as it could be.

in a machine. Many company managers are uncomfortable sharing important business and financial information however, truthfully presenting the facts can prevent panic.

Considering the years of layoffs and business closures, employees who are left in the dark tend to fear for their futures. Silence could send them job hunting.

There can also be a significant loss in business due to employee turnover. Many employees enjoy a loyal following of customers with whom they share a real connection. When these employees leave, particularly if they depart to a similar business, many of those loyal customers go too.

Another serious cost to companies when they lose employees is the loss of organisational knowledge. Many employees are able to become experts in the field they work in and when they leave, so does that knowledge.

These employees are no longer available to share this knowledge and mentor junior members in the company. Once again these costs are near impossible to quantify, but there is sure to be an effect on the bottom line.

How can a company retain staff and prevent that bottom line drain?

It could be something as simple and tangible as remuneration, or it may be something more intangible like job satisfaction.

Hard costs, such as recruiting, interviewing, and training are easy to quantify. However, there are other soft costs which are more difficult to quantify, but can have a huge impact on an organisation’s bottom line.

So if that junior employee was offered a slightly higher salary, say $40,000, the chances of that employee staying longer are much higher. If they were to stay five years, the loss of profit to the company would only be $12,000 annually, as compared to the annual cost of $22,500 if they left after two years on $30,000. It could also mean a more experienced or productive person could be employed.

Each time an employee is lost the hiring and selection cycle must start again. These costs can be significant: advertising costs, cost of recruitment agencies, background checks,

A fair and equitable wage and benefits package is the foundation for any successful employee retention programme, but the basic rule is ‘do not take employees for granted’.

The recent recession has caused many employees to step up and take on more work for the same, or in some cases, less money.

Many of them might have been happy to still have a job, but that feeling will not last forever.

If there is no work-life balance and no extra pay to compensate for the added hours, it is just a matter of time before employees simply burnout or become bitter. Fear of losing a job will not motivate people indefinitely, particularly when they may be able to find better pay or a less demanding work environment.

Those in leadership often assume high performing employees are happy and subsequently do not take the time to communicate with them. Communication is the key to every successful relationship and employment relationships are no different.

Problem employees demand attention, but high performers need attention as well.

Acknowledge and reward them for their hard work and loyalty. If you do not then a competitor might!

Listen carefully to the ideas of employees and treat them like individuals instead of cogs

Valuing employees will increase employee retention. Invest in employees by training them and providing them with opportunities for advancement. No one wants to do the same thing forever. Companies would do well to try to advance from within whenever possible, and challenge employees to try new and innovative ideas. They might come up with some cost saving devices of their own.

A Harvard University study reported that 80 percent of employee turnover can be attributed to mistakes made during the hiring process. The implications of this are huge.

The problem lies in the employee selection process. Simply put, the wrong people are being hired for the wrong jobs.

Think outside the box; while that junior employee who will work for $30,000 and will stay for just a couple of years looks good on the balance sheet, maybe a more senior employee who is looking for a longer term position, even though they may cost slightly more, is better for business in the long run.

There is no arguing with the fact that retaining current employees is more cost effective than recruiting new ones. Taking the time to invest in employees and make them feel appreciated may not seem like a dire business decision, but over time the money saved will outweigh the time spent.

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 13

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News | Business Tips

Meeting the mark

By Stephen Lynch

I read a survey recently where participants were asked “What frustrates you most about meetings at work?”

You want everyone being able to say “We hit our targets, and we nailed our project milestones,” rather than having a whole lot of projects still up in the air, with staff still grinding away day after day, never feeling the thrill of victory. You want the team to be able to pop the cork and celebrate their achievements at the end of every quarter, not feel like failures.

The top reported frustrations about meetings were:

Everyone has a huge ‘to do’ list of things they could be doing – but what is the one thing - the one tangible bite-sized action they can complete this week that will move each project forward?

• No clear purpose or objective for the meeting • Meeting doesn’t start on time, stay on track, or finish on time • Repeating information for late arrivals • Too long • Not organised. No agenda • No specific action items or tasks assigned

If they can just get that ‘one thing’ done – that is the secret to strategic execution. Anything else they may accomplish during the week is a bonus — but everyone must know what their one thing is relating to each project. In many cases this also means being able to say “no” to anything else that comes up, and protecting your people from distractions.

• Allowing attendees to ramble

“

Meetings are crucial to drive effective business execution. Whether it is a weekly team meeting, a project meeting, or weekly one-on-one meetings with your direct reports - it is vital that leaders learn how to run effective meetings.

”

Business execution is not about working hard, • Weak presenter (unprepared, not inspiring or or being busy. It is about everyone taking the right action - each and every week – and motivating). nailing that one thing.

Some writers say there should be fewer Leaders must follow up at every meeting and meetings. What nonsense! The number of hold each of their people firmly accountable meetings is not the issue – the problem is for commitments made. most companies do not know how to create and run great meetings.

Meetings are crucial to drive effective business execution. Whether it is a weekly team meeting, a project meeting, or weekly one-on-one meetings with your direct reports - it is vital leaders learn how to run effective meetings.

As a leader, your aim is for everyone in your team to finish each quarter with a sense of satisfaction and achievement.

Fortunately, business execution software makes the leader’s job easier. You can create specific meeting agendas, and then use the software to drive the meeting and keep things on track. You can track everyone’s progress, and assign new tasks. It makes the job of holding people accountable so much easier.

Running effective meetings is one of the key skills business leaders must master.

What your company can learn from the military

By Stephen Lynch

Many modern management books write dismissively of the so-called “command and control” style of leadership (except of course when Steve Jobs was doing the commanding), and infer that this so-called military style of leadership does not apply in the modern business environment.

I wonder how familiar the authors are with how much the modern military has evolved – and how effectively they have overcome many of the challenges business leaders are only just learning how to master. Here is our take, derived from a blog in Three Star Leadership.

As we move from an industrial-based society to a knowledge-based society, it has become clearer individual employees on the front lines require the autonomy to make their own decisions in order to achieve high performance and feel fully engaged.

In order for employees to make the good decisions however, the organisation needs to have a clear strategy to begin with – a strategy that is well communicated throughout the company, a coherent strategy which all staff are aligned to in terms of their individual strategic priorities.

Only when you have a well communicated, coherent strategy will employees have a clear context for their decision making and know

the “right actions” to take, how to behave, what to say yes to and what to say no to.

There are far too many variables which occur on a day to day basis for “orders” to apply to every situation. This applies to warfare as well as business. Top military organisations use what they call a “mission order” to drive strategic execution.

equipment, training, mentoring and support the results are increased productivity, morale, innovation and agility.

• Do you provide clear strategic objectives for your people?

• Do you provide the appropriate equipment, training, mentoring and support?

A mission order could be compared to a strategic priority a business leader chooses for the quarter. It defines clearly the strategic objective that needs to be implemented without specifying “how” it should be accomplished.

• Do you let staff make decisions about “how” to accomplish the objectives?

The US Marines describe it like this: “We leave the manner of accomplishing the mission to the subordinate, allowing them the freedom to take whatever steps deemed necessary based on the situation. The senior prescribes the method of execution only to the degree that is essential for coordination.”

Elite military units seem to do a far better job than most businesses at getting this right.

The military has learned when clear strategic direction is given – along with appropriate

• Do you measure progress every step of the way and hold them firmly accountable for results?

Stephen Lynch is the chief operating officer of Global Operations at RESULTS.com and the information on this page was kindly provided by RESULTS.com: www.results.com

14 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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News | Small Steps

Small Steps to a more productive and efficient business

By Karen Pasco

Sometimes it is the little things that can make a huge difference to productivity and cost savings. Each may seem like just a little adjustment, but on mass can turn your whole business around and create a working environment that is more productive and efficient.

Overheads Eliminate unnecessary lighting – install motion detectors to control lighting in frequently unoccupied areas, such as restrooms and copy rooms.

Keep a close watch on energy consumption – set your thermostats to a lower temperature, turn off all appliances when they’re not in use and encourage staff to shut down their computers when they’re out of the office.

Look at paper usage – implement paperreducing strategies such as double-sided printing and reusing paper. You’ll save some trees, too!

Font and font size – is the font you’re using embellished? For instance, Century Gothic doesn’t use as much ink as Arial when printing. If you also reduce your font size from 12 to 10 or 11, then you will reduce the ink you use therefore reducing costs.

Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate – suppliers definitely don’t want to lose business so you have a real power to pull them down to the lowest possible cost. As long as service and quality are not compromised, then you can make some big savings.

Communication and marketing Communicate on online forums and message boards - you’ll interact with potential clients and customers — for free.

Be responsive – if you are going to use social media as a marketing tool, make sure you follow up any feedback you receive — watch for and respond to comments, questions and especially complaints. And when you are contacted as a result of offline marketing activities, respond quickly and professionally.

Start a blog – you can advertise, review your offerings and give free tips as often as you’d like without worrying about running up your budget.

Use Skype – instead of running up a hefty travel bill make the most of this free service.

Speak, pause, listen - when you have several topics to tackle, rushing through them to get all of your ideas out may be tempting.

But this causes confusion and makes staff feel their input is not important. Slow down, and remember communication is a two-way street. Establish a give-and-take that allows both parties to have their say.

Ask for feedback - one way to maintain long-term relationships with your clients is by keeping open lines of communication.

This means asking them for their input on how things are going and how they feel about the service you’re providing. This can

be accomplished by inquiring at the end of a project, during day-to-day conversations or through formal surveys.

Staff productivity Get more organised – individuals and businesses can get through a multitude of work with careful planning and organisation.

List your tasks, prioritise them and track the progress. You’ll find you get through more with a less haphazard approach.

Cost vs task - are you paying someone an unsightly amount per hour to do menial tasks.

Look at the tasks of each of your employees and yourself. Think about getting in a student or part-time worker to complete these tasks so you and your staff can be more cost effective.

Create some competitiveness – set goals and targets for your team members. This may provide a little healthy competition which will increase productivity. Ensure you have short term and long term goals and make sure everyone knows their contribution towards reaching them.

Do we need to do this? – look at all tasks performed within your business. Are you completing some processes just because they are historical or are they essential? Are some processes being duplicated by different people? Can the process be pared down or done when completing another task to save time? Check with staff who complete the jobs – often they have great solutions to

how things can be done more effectively and efficiently.

Be a positive person - present an attitude of positivity and approachability. Show staff you are available and willing to help them. Walk around with a smile, and make eye contact with those you pass in the hallways. Be friendly, pleasant and nice. Talk with kindness, encouragement, civility, and respect. Ask questions before making assumptions. Listen to others with interest.

Environment Look at the space – does your office reflect the needs of your staff? Do people’s jobs require them to interact with other staff members yet everyone is tucked away in their own office?

Are some people’s job sensitive or require privacy and yet they are in an open-plan environment. To get the most out of your staff and provide a productive workplace, match the space to the jobs.

Mobility When you lay your office out you can choose to have straight paths throughout your floor plan. However, it may be worth investigating paths that wind and curve around different work areas to offer a bit of variety to the work day. Worker morale is important to productivity, and if winding paths to get from one department to another help to break the feeling of structure and a rigid workplace, then it is something worth looking into.

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News | Rio+20

An environmental

ultimatum

By Corazon Miller

This side of the millennium has seen its fair share of green placard waving, so much so that many have become immune to the call of the environment.

But even here in New Zealand, with our vast expanse of green pastures and huge spreads of marine environment, there are problems left over from generations of slow action.

One New Zealand teenager has taken matters into her own hands; challenging the global community to step up and protect the planet from further environmental and economic decay. At this year’s United Nations conference on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro, Wellingtonian Brittany Trilford gave an impassioned speech for change in front of some 140 delegates.

The 17-year-old told the leaders to think why they were there; “Why are you here and what can you do here? I would like you to ask yourselves: are you here to save face? Or are you here to save us?”

As Brittany concluded her speech she delivered an ultimatum to those listening; “You have 72 hours to decide the fate of your children – my children’s children and I start the clock now.”

The conference commonly called Rio+20 was held over three days from June 20 – 22, the meeting where governments, international institutions and NGOs hoped to generate change; form measures to reduce poverty, promote decent jobs, clean energy and a fairer use of resources.

Broken promises Brittany kicked off the conference by criticising the 140 leaders present for failing to live up to promises made at the first conference held in Rio 20 years ago.

“They made great promises; promises that when I read them still leave me felling hopeful. These promises are left not broken, but empty. How can that be? When all around us is the knowledge that offers us solutions, nature as a design tool offers insight into systems that are whole, complete, that give life, create value, allow progress, transformation, change.”

The UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon himself acknowledged the world has made little progress on environmental issues since that first meeting two decades ago. “Twenty years ago, the Earth Summit put sustainable development on the global agenda. Yet let me be frank: our efforts have not lived up to the measure of the challenge,” he told delegates.

“Far too long we have behaved as though we could indefinitely, burn and consume our way to prosperity. Today we recognise that we can no longer do so.

“The old model for economic development and social advancement is broken. It is time for all of us to think globally and long term, beginning here now in Rio.”

New Zealand at Rio New Zealand, while traditionally having a reputation for being clean and green, has problems of its own. Many regard our green paddocks and blue waters as part of the status quo – but if critics are right, change may soon be afoot, and action is needed now.

World Wildlife Fund New Zealand executive director, Chris Howe says his organisation’s recent Beyond Rio report highlighted New Zealand’s poor environmental performance since the original Rio Earth Summit 20 years ago.

“While the New Zealand government has little to be proud of, we urge the New Zealand delegation at Rio+20 to be a constructive part of the negotiations and to put true environmental protection at the heart of decision-making.”

However, Environment Minister Amy Adams at her opening address at Rio says New Zealand is committed to safeguarding the future environment.

“New Zealand has come to Rio with a hope – that in reaffirming and renewing the world’s commitment to sustainable development we will address the future of the planet and aspirations of future generations,” she says.

As proof by the closing of Rio+20 New Zealand had solidified its commitment to the global ocean partnership and gave support to an indigenous network which was also launched at the conference.

In Adam’s speech she highlighted the range of other commitments New Zealand brought to Rio+20: • Phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies: These are said to be in the range of US $400 – $600 billion a year. Money spent on fossil fuels is money that could be spent on other sustainable development priorities, health and education.

• Protecting the oceans: Sustainable management, conservation and protection of our oceans are areas that New Zealand feels deserve a more ambitious collective action. The oceans provide jobs, resources, food and impact on the global climate.

The problems

“

The old model for economic development and social advancement is broken. It is time for all of us to think globally and long term, beginning here now in Rio. - UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon

is rampant, famines are starving nations, droughts prevail and islands in the Pacific and the Caribbean are literally drowning.

Director general of WWF International Jim Leape says nations needed to set a new direction and mindset at this year’s conference. “Over the past few years we have seen how reckless mismanagement of the world’s financial capital can wreak havoc in society and yet we are treating the Earth’s finite natural capital in a similarly dangerous way,” he says.

“Rio+20 needs to set a new course for the global economy… in order to meet the food, water and energy needs of the future.”

Director of the French humanitarian organisation Charles Leopold Mayer Foundation (CLF), Pierre Calame, echoes Jim’s sentiments, saying it has taken some time for humanity to begin to understand we are sharing a planet that has a finite supply of natural resources.

”

for the better must happen. “It is a historical opportunity not to be missed.”

Small steps As the three days of discussing, debating and formulating plans came to a close, there were no miracles but there were promising signs of change.

An outcome document, titled “The Future We Want”, formed the foundation of the global leaders’ renewed promises to change.

Countries renewed their political commitment to sustainable development, agreed to establish a set of sustainable development goals and established a high-level political forum on the issue.

“By the time of the first Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, the global community had begun to realise humanity had the potential to destroy the planet – not by war – but simply through our way of life.

It called for action including; detailing how the green economy can be used as a tool to achieve sustainable development, to strengthen the UN’s Environment Programme, as well as promoting corporate sustainability, steps to assess the well-being of a country outside of the normal GDP rating strategies for financing sustainable development, a focus on gender equity and the need to engage civil society and integrate science into policy.

“The first decade of the 21st century has witnessed repeated failures of international negotiations.” Part of the problem Pierre says is that the big powers are often reluctant to change.

However critics, environmentalists and anti-poverty campaigners have blasted the document as lacking both detail and ambition, saying more definitive action is needed – now.

Pierre points out the former United States president George W. Bush once said, “The US way of life is not negotiable”. But Pierre says it should be negotiable, the big-shots need to be challenged to create radical change.

He adds Rio+20 is the place where change

As young New Zealander Brittany Trilford put so succinctly without change “our future here is questionable… time is ticking”.

“We, the next generation, demand change.

We demand action so that we have a future and have it guaranteed.”

At times it is certainly easier to sit in the comfort of our first world homes without a thought as to who will be left to tidy up our mess. We can quite easily pretend the third world does not exist, poverty is a choice, climate change is a myth and rising sealevels are fiction.

But the signs are there; our actions, or lack thereof, have consequences. Marine life is suffering, the water is being sullied, poverty

16 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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News | Top Tips

Tackling time management

By Stephen Lynch

You sit down and begin to work on your most important priority for the day. Then the phone rings, someone knocks on your door, a new message alert flashes on your screen.

Unfortunately, studies show that we get interrupted, (or allow ourselves to be distracted), every eight minutes on average.

That’s 73 times a day!

As the late American writer and management guru Peter Drucker said, “If you cannot manage yourself for effectiveness, you cannot expect to manage others”. In essence, if you want to be an effective manager you need to learn how to manage your most precious resource – your time.

A typical interruption time of five minutes – equates to about four hours - or 50 percent of your productive day being wasted by interruptions. Even worse, it prevents us from getting into that highly productive state called “flow”. After every interruption,

it can take 20 minutes to get back to the level of concentration you were at prior to the disruption.

It is easy to see why business execution is still the number one challenge for business leaders. Here are some key time management tips to improve your business execution effectiveness: Close the door • An “open door policy” can severely reduce your productivity if you do not set some boundaries • Close your door, or use a “do-not-disturb” sign for at least two hours per day • Let people know what times of the day you are available for them to drop in • Ask people for a brief overview of what they want to discuss. If it is going to take more than five minutes, book it in your calendar.

Booking time in your calendar lets your people know that while you are busy right now, you view their issue as important.

(Bonus: chances are, they will learn to solve the issue themselves in the meantime) • Beware of “reverse delegation”. Train your people to use the GROW method. If they have a problem, they must come to you presenting the options, along with their recommended solution

Reduce phone call and email interruptions • Stop living your life in reactive mode.

Plan your day. Turn off email alerts - and schedule specific times to read and reply to email. Turn off your phone for two hours per day while you complete your number one priority for the day • Ask for your phone calls to be held (with exceptions only for family or key customers). Then check phone messages and return your calls at a specific time every day • If you must answer a phone call when you are in the middle of a task, let the caller know that you are busy, and schedule a return call later that day.

• Only invite those who absolutely need to attend • Create an agenda and a meeting timeframe that ensures you make the best use of everyone’s valuable time • Send the agenda out to attendees with sufficient time for them to come prepared to discuss the topics on the agenda.

Consider using business execution software to run more effective meetings. It keeps everyone focused on the key issues that are being discussed, and you can “add tasks” in real time to make sure that action items committed to during the meeting actually get carried out.

Run more effective meetings

Stephen Lynch, chief operating officer of Global Operations at RESULTS.com

• Ask yourself; do you really need this meeting at all? What is the purpose?

Information kindly provided by RESULTS.com: www.results.com

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 17

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Society | Behind the lens

silver screen

Greening the

By Corazon Miller

Situated in an ideal setting, under a small alcove beneath her house, surrounded by the untamed shrubbery and a shining sun – it’s the perfect image of someone living the story she tells.

It is clearly evident this successful documentary maker immerses herself in nature, in reality, just as much as she does in the films she makes.

Kathleen who is Christchurch born and bred began her rise to prominence as a film maker in the early 2000s. In recent years her films have taken on a strong environmental focus that challenges the norms we have come to accept in modern living.

The first in her series of environmental films began with a unique, poignant look at 10 New Zealand cancer survivors. He Oranga He Oranga; Healing Journeys, which received a commended accolade at the Lucknow Film Festival in India, shares these survivors’ stories and looks at how they drew strength from their natural environment.

“

New Zealand is fantastically poised to be green and sustainable compared to others as we have a small, educated population.

Walking into the front yard of a house on the side of Christchurch’s Cashmere hills, I find Kathleen Gallagher, peace activist, poet, playwright and environmental film director lying stretched out across her sofa. scientists, ecologists, celestial navigators, writers and astronomers, from a Canterbury academic and mechanical engineer, Susan Krumdieck, to the Nobel Prize Winning scientist, David Whitehead and the more controversial “Moon Man”, Ken Ring; who all give their view on the environment.

”

The film challenges us to look at the impact we’re having on the planet and urges us to make real changes to how we live and reconnect with the environment.

It is a mixture of science and what some would label as astrological mysticism – it may not be everyone’s cup of tea – but it is undeniable that there is plenty of food for thought in this environmental tale.

I talk to Kathleen about her inspiration, the challenges and the rewards of the job.

What inspired you to look into environmental documentaries?

“Over the years the environmental theme has grown and is more implicit in my work now. I am digging deeper with it, trying to Her subsequent films, Earth Whisperers: Papatuanuku and Water Whisperers: Tangaroa, understand how to get to where we need delved deeper into this environmental theme to. We are facing too big a shift to get to the point where we are no longer poisoning the collecting their own share of accolades. water and the air – What do we need to do to shift?

Kathleen’s latest film Sky Whisperers: Ranganui, released earlier this year, follows “New Zealand is fantastically poised to be along in the same vein. Filmed in New green and sustainable compared to others as Zealand’s beautiful natural setting, Kathleen we have a small educated population. and her team use simple filming techniques “I think the government needs to try and that create an on-screen beauty; a breath of fresh air in an industry that is full of grandiose reduce the fossil fuel consumption by 10 percent; all Governments and cities should special effects and animations. commit to this. We can make changes by Sky Whisperer’s starts with a haunting designing wind and solar forms of energy at combination of music and swooping imagery an adequate price. that carries you on a journey through the “We have got all the technology we need. earth, sky and stars. As the film continues It is not hard, yet we still keep building the Kathleen introduces us to a mixture of

motorways. We all know that with traffic when we build more roads we get more traffic; why don’t we build more cycle ways in order to get more cyclists on the road?”

What is it that we, as individuals, can do?

“I think at the moment we have to interact more with the environment. People do live in different ways, but most of us can see the sky; it gives us a sense of wonder that things are bigger than us. Beauty can be found in the unexpected. How we can interact and protect the beauty of the environment.

“Try not to use petrol, bike to get where you are going, on the way you will be able to see a lot that you don’t see from the car. Wander through the forest and the mountains, watch the clouds.

“Pick something to grow, grow what you like to eat, learn how to grow pumpkin.

“We are often inside cars, houses, staring at screens. We don’t walk into the environment as we should, we don’t watch for changes in our environment. We rush around relating to people but we have lost touch with the earth, even when it comes to simple things such as the basic gardening.

“I think it is difficult to change, unless we change our paradigm – that is what these films I make try to do – show us how we can change.

“I wanted to find people who watched [the environment] and I did; I found them.”

What messages are told in Sky Whisperers?

“Sky Whisperers begins with a relationship with air, with people who discovered the ozone hole, with those who are working to stem climate change. The first part of the movie dealt with the problem of air pollution and what others are doing in regards to it.

“The second part is about the relationship that we do have on the land and the effect it has on our air and how we treat our forest.

“We are the last kids on the block so to speak, so we should respect what came before us [nature].

“The third part of the film looks at astronomers and celestial navigators. Celestial navigators are those who make their way across the sky by reading stars in the sky; currently there are nine celestial navigators in the Pacific. When they start on this journey they have to learn 260 stars; they go out every night to learn to read the sky.”

What were some of the challenges and rewards you faced in making the film?

“It was a challenge working while dealing with all the earthquakes because we were all dealing with it in different ways while making the film.

“But it was most satisfying to bring together scientists, businesses and people. There was such a diverse range of people – listening to them and filming them has been a privilege.”

18 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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News | Your Brand

Personal branding for busy business leaders Social media’s impact on our business and personal lives is only going to intensify. Your colleagues, staff, boss, clients, suppliers, investors, potential business partners, recruiters and business connections are already judging you based on what they find about you online. Like it or not, you are a brand.

But while your online personal brand is becoming increasingly important, it has also become harder to control. Some call it the age of “radical transparency.” Thomas Jefferson’s advice that: “Whenever you do a thing, act as if all the world were watching” now truly applies.

Be strategic So how do you protect and build your online reputation? Above all, you must be proactive.

You must first define what is great and unique about you and clearly position how you want to be perceived – rather than allow others to define you. Doing so may determine whether you get the top job, win the support of investors, or gain the trust of potential business partners.

To position and market your personal brand strategically just as you do with your company brand, the following questions will help: • Who is your target audience – the people you want to appeal to the most?

• Completely fill out your LinkedIn profile: list all your past companies (not just your current company), education, affiliations, activities, and include a professional photo • In the summary section, market yourself by inserting the key personal brand messages you developed earlier. Don’t think of it as just a resume. Most profiles are just a boring list of facts. Here is where you can stand out from the crowd by effectively branding yourself • A rule of thumb I follow is to only connect with people I have had meaningful interactions with and where I am willing to personally vouch for them • Tell the truth – it is easy for people to contact your connections to verify information about you. Recruiters these days don’t just perform reference checks on the names you supply on a traditional paper resume. Now they search and make direct contact with anyone you’ve ever worked with or done business with

• What key benefits do you offer?

• Ask for recommendations from your connections. Don’t be shy. If you have done good work in the past this is where you provide proof and enhance your credibility

• What proof can you provide to back your claims?

• Recommendations from managers highlight your strengths

Using this framework, create two or three short statements that communicate who you are and what you want to be known for. Don’t make the mistake of passing yourself off Jack or Jackie of all trades.

• Recommendations from employees highlight your leadership qualities

• What makes you meaningfully different and special?

Rather than try to be all things to all people your personal brand will be far more powerful if you get very clear and focused about what you do. This advice applies equally to company brands and personal brands.

Less noise / more substance Invest time to cultivate an effective presence within all the key social media platforms.

Building a personal brand is not a one-off event. You need to be like a gardener and tend your plot regularly and not let the weeds take over.

Realise that social media platforms are just a means - they are not an end unto themselves.

It’s a common mistake for companies and people to make lots of noise online without having a clear brand strategy in place.

Linkedin As a busy business leader, if you use only one social media platform, use LinkedIn. The average user is in their early 40’s, well educated, earns a six-figure income, and more than 50 percent claim to be key decision makers in their company. Here’s how busy business leaders can get the most out of it:

• Recommendations from customers and suppliers show that you do great work and can be trusted.

Don’t just sit there!

Time commitment to maintain an effective LinkedIn presence: 10 minutes per week.

Who are you really?

Many people mistakenly believe that they can separate their online personas into LinkedIn for business use and Facebook, Google+, and Twitter for personal posts. For sure, the style of content you post on each platform may differ, but always remember that everything you do online is searchable, so try to keep your brand identity consistent across all social media.

However, sharing elements of your personal life on all platforms makes you more interesting, and provides talking points that can deepen both your online and offline relationships.

So in summary - get clear and focused on who you are, and how you want to be perceived.

Then “live your brand” consistently. If you manage your personal brand wisely, it will serve you well for a lifetime.

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

BURNELL & SON TRANSPORT LTD FOR SUPERIOR BULK SERVICE THROUGHOUT NEW ZEALAND

• Use the status update function once per week to keep your network informed about projects you are working on, or to ask for help (e.g. let people know if you are looking to hire a new employee, or find a new supplier etc). This is a simple and effective way to draw on resources, and keep in touch with a lot of people simultaneously • Demonstrate industry leadership by sharing blog posts that you (or others in your company) have written that you think may benefit others in your network. This promotes both you and your company at the same time and keeps your name visible • Check your profile home page at least weekly. You will quickly see what everyone in your network is up to, and where you may be able to offer assistance.

• Build your network before you need it.

These are the people you want to be able to call on for support in the future. Make introductions and offer to help others where you can • Time to set up an effective LinkedIn profile and get recommendations: 2 to 3 hours.

Contact Wayne Burnell Cell: 021 281 5549 Email: burnelltsp@xtra.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 19

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Cover Story | Brad Clark

Wish

upon a star

There’s nothing quite like a sick child to shatter your illusion about life being fair, a reality that close to 120,000 New Zealand children live in each year.

This is the world the Starship Foundation faces daily, as it battles to fundraise within the framework of an increasingly tough marketplace, where instant brand recognition doesn’t automatically translate into dollars.

“

My contact with patients is not as often as I like, but this is the aspect of the job that I do enjoy. It is what grounds me and helps me to go the extra mile. They face such big challenges yet the manner in which they face them are inspiring. It’s inspiring to see how resilient they are. Sure it is emotional but you can direct that back to driving success.

- Brad Clark, Starship Foundation CEO

”

Corazon Miller talks to Brad Clark, the CEO of the Starship Foundation, who since 2010 has been working with dedicated staff to ensure that not only do our children get the healthcare they deserve, but they receive the “gold standard of care” that is among the best in the world.

Each year this social-profit organisation works hard to raise funds for New Zealand’s national children’s hospital, Starship Children’s Health, a dedicated paediatric healthcare service and major teaching centre that provides care to children and young people throughout the country and the South Pacific.

Annually, the Auckland-based hospital treats close to 120,000 children for a range of ailments; from something simple like a broken leg to the more life-threatening illnesses faced by the young oncology patients. The cost borne by the foundation to ensure, in the face of some very trying times, these children and their families receive world-class health-care, is between $6 – 10 million annually – a cost that is over and above what the Government provides.

These valuable dollars go towards a variety of initiatives such as building refurbishments, new technology, vital research, better family support, preventative programmes and staff training. In addition $1.5million of this is given to the Starship National Air Ambulance Service which ensures children in need of emergency care can be brought in from all around the country.

Brad and Sarah Morrell, a very unique little girl who has touched the heart of all the Starship staff.

It’s no easy feat to keep a business running in today’s tough economic climate; even more so when you are relying on people to simply give. Brad shares just how he keeps the wheels of the social-profit organisation turning, giving insights into the rewards and the challenges that having such a tough job entails.

A reason to give Brad’s constant reminder of just how important his job is lies in a little toddler close to his heart - his only child. “Today she is a two year old that melts my heart daily.”

When Brad took the role at Starship, little Kaitlin was only six-weeks old, but he says she had already given him reason to see just how important the work of the Foundation was. “As a relatively new dad at the time, this gave me another reason to help. I saw this new role as a way that I could help.”

Armed with his extensive management experience with a variety of large corporates such as Sovereign and American Express, Brad was well equipped for the challenge.

His role immediately prior, general manager of marketing and fundraising for CanTeen, the cancer support group for young people, had him well prepped for the realities of the fundraising discipline.

Brad admits it’s challenging but knowing that you are making a difference in people’s lives made it well worth the while. “It [CanTeen] was my first full-time role within this sector.

It felt good, it felt like the right place for me to be able to connect with those people on a day to day basis. It was special to be able to help them.”

Joining the team at Starship was therefore quite a natural progression for Brad. “It was a brilliant role to come to,” he says, paying homage to his predecessor and the staff who had laid down all the ground work before him. “They created a brand and a reputation and a presence in the country as being here for kids. It is a world class Foundation, with a great board of trustees. These are the people that I relished the opportunity to work with.”

Driving the brand However, while creating a brand is integral to any business Brad says having such a wellestablished brand had pitfalls of its own. “The challenge is that we are a well-known brand, which can lead to the assumption that we are well-funded.

“But we continually need to reinforce in the public eye that though we are well branded our needs are not always met. Just because you know who we are does not mean that we are well-funded,” he says.

“It is a big challenge to get people talking about the need to underline Starship as a national body for children’s health. We need a centre of excellence and that is what Starship is for, but if it is not supported we will slip behind world standards in regards to the care of the children.”

20 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Cover Story | Brad Clark Captain Starship takes centre stage during a > Starship Christmas party for the kids.

The cost of gold What Starship Children’s Health would be like without the help of the Foundation is what Brad describes as the year’s $8.5 million dollar (the target they have set for this year) question.

Every year the Foundation needs to raise between $6 – 10 million dollars, to ensure that every child receives the “gold standard of care”.

Without the Foundation, Brad says the hospital would not be what it is today.

“We wouldn’t have the hospital we have.

We wouldn’t have the equipment or the adequate nursing training. We would probably lose the air ambulance; the cost of this would fall back on DHBs around the country or on the consumer.

“I doubt others would be able to pick up that cost. The Government does do a lot; I believe they do the best they can for healthcare. But we need more than what the Government can provide to achieve a gold standard in healthcare. We deserve the best for our kids.”

Strategic diversity Brad says the key to achieving such a big financial goal is through diversifying its strategies. The Starship Foundation runs a range of initiatives to bring the dollar in; from a range of regular giving programmes, to marketing initiatives, corporate partnerships and a range of community functions.

Of course the foundation was not immune to the effects of the recession. Brad says there was definitely a spin-off effect for the organisation, but this year has already shown positive signs of recovery. “We are seeing

improvements in meeting our modest budget this year.”

However he says there is no point in looking back, rather it is important to keep driving forward and looking for new strategies that will work within the current climate. “What the global financial crisis has meant is that there is a new reality, there is no point in wishing we can go back – that is a waste of time. We need to be realigning ourselves with this new reality.”

Tough choices Within this new reality there are, as always, tough choices that still need to be made.

“There are no lack of areas that need our help,” Brad says. “What we get is not always enough.”

As a result Brad and his team are often faced with making an “or” rather than an “and” decision. Something is left off the list that could have had the potential to make a child’s life better.

“

The Government does do a lot; I believe they do the best they can for healthcare. But we need more than what the Government can provide to achieve a gold standard in healthcare. We deserve the best for our kids.

It is a tough call to make, but Brad says the Foundation goes through a robust process to ensure that what money there is, is directed to the places that need it the most. “It is a robust process; it is a huge responsibility so we try to make sure we get it right, I don’t want to lead the donors astray.

- Brad Clark, Starship Foundation CEO

”

“We have a strong partnership with Starship Children’s Health. We put the word out to the clinicians and ask the service managers to identify projects, equipment, training and new areas. We work with them to align their health priorities with the national and global priorities to make sure that we know we are making the right choices.”

STA0051A\TBWA

Prime minister John Key is accompanied by > Steve Williams for the new Oncology Ward’s official opening after the rebuild of Level 7, which the Foundation raised $6m for.

Hold a garage sale or Trade Me auction to support Starship.

It’s Starship Spring Clean time again and it’s time to clean out your old treasures to support the kids at Starship. To register your garage sale visit starship.org.nz/garagesale and download a garage sale tool-kit to get started. Or to sell your items in a Trade Me auction simply visit trademe.co.nz/starship to get going. Trade Me will even refund your success fee*. And, if you don’t have the chance to hold either, you can always call 0800 STARSHIP (0800 782 7747) to make a donation of your choice.

For Trade Me auctions: trademe.co.nz/starship

For garage sales: starship.org.nz/garagesale * Minimum donation applies

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Cover Story | Brad Clark

It is no news that the health sector is facing an increasing strain on its services and its budgets. Hospitals are often full to the brim, surgical waiting lists are long and medical professionals are often tackling increased workloads.

“It is no secret that Starship is currently working near to capacity all year around at the moment,” Brad says. “Historically the reality was that it was busy during the winter and there was down time during the summer.

But now we are finding that Starship is at, or near capacity, for most of the year.”

Brad says while the responsibility and the long-term solution to the problem lies in the hands of the Government and the local District Health Boards, the Foundation does play its part in helping to provide solutions and “continues to be a part of the conversation”.

One example is the nearly completed $5million project which was aimed at redeveloping the 6th floor of Starship, the Neuroservices and Medical Specialities wards.

The redesign will enable better provision of services, within a more family centric area and a better environment for staff to work in.

The new ward will host mainly single rooms with parent beds, playrooms for the children and family rooms.

“We see ourselves playing a bigger and better role in the future, finding reasons, cures and treatments. We would like to see us working in collaboration with others around the world, sharing resources for research and education in order to find solutions.

“Our role is as an enabler.”

Community spirit It is certainly exciting and fulfilling work; in any given day Brad says he might receive a message of thanks from a grateful parent or child who has received care from Starship, a corporate partnership might be formed or a

large unplanned donation might fall on his desk.

Brad says it is particularly heart warming when the community gives back. With so many other good causes around he says it is certainly a privilege to be remembered. “It is a sign of the strength of connection that the Foundation has with families, who even after their children have left Starship continue to remember all that the Foundation has done.

“It is a privilege to be a part of their thoughts.

We are lucky that the community thinks of us.

They can help anyone but we are fortunate to be chosen by them.”

One young girl who is paying it back is 14-year-old Aucklander, Ruby Seeto. Her story with the hospital began when she was only nine years old. Two weeks after she returned from a family holiday, she felt unwell and her mother found a lump in her side which turned out to be a rare type of cancer.

During the space of a year she spent a lot of time in Starship and while it was certainly tough for Ruby, all the staff’s work and the top-class facilities, helped to make things just that little bit easier.

“

>

Strained healthcare system

A baby in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit.

It is a big challenge to get people talking about the need to underline Starship as a national body for children’s health. We need a centre of excellence and that is what Starship is for, but if it is not supported we will slip behind world standards in regards to the care of the children.

- Brad Clark, Starship Foundation CEO

Five years later Ruby is happy and healthy, giving back to the place that helped her to battle through the tough times, by designing and selling tea-towels and donating all the proceeds to the Foundation.

”

Bittersweet Brad says dealing with sick children and their needs on a daily basis is, of course, very emotional - but it is also inspirational. “My contact with patients is not as often as I like, but this is the aspect of the job that I do enjoy.

It is what grounds me and helps me to go the extra mile,” he says. “They face such big challenges yet the manner in which they face them are inspiring. It’s inspiring to see how resilient they are.

“Sure it is emotional but you can direct that back to driving success.” >

STA0051A\TBWA

Starship patient Ethan Graham.

Hold a garage sale or Trade Me auction to support Starship.

Give up the treasures from your home that you don’t need because they’ll be extra precious to the kids at Starship. To register your garage sale visit starship.org.nz/garagesale and download a garage sale tool-kit to get started. Or to sell your items in a Trade Me auction simply visit trademe.co.nz/starship to get going. Trade Me will even refund your success fee*. And, if you don’t have the chance to hold either, you can always call 0800 STARSHIP (0800 782 7747) to make a donation of your choice.

For Trade Me auctions: trademe.co.nz/starship

For garage sales: starship.org.nz/garagesale * Minimum donation applies

- 10x8_Auckland Today.indd 1 22STA0051A September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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News | In brief

Export strategy a good start Export NZ executive director Catherine Beard says the Government should be congratulated on pulling together all its plans for the export sector into one document, and for setting the country a stretch goal of increasing exports to 40 percent of GDP by 2025.

“We get a lot of feedback from exporters saying they would like to know what the plan is and how we are going to get there. This document is a good summary of all the work that is going on to support the export sector.

“The question will be whether there are enough new ideas that are over and above ‘business as usual’ to help exporters reach that target,” she says.

“The high New Zealand dollar is a challenge for exporters. We hope the Government’s new investment in R&D assistance for industry in the form of the Advanced Technology Institute will help exporters move faster up the value and innovation ladder. This will insulate them from having to compete on price against lower cost countries.

“Other ideas we think are worth exploring are the development of cluster policies, which are common in Europe and around the world, to better leverage the business

Cloud technology and remote access a new security problem Many New Zealand companies may be exposed to serious IT breaches because they fail to update their remote access systems after employees leave.

ecosystem where comparative advantages exist. We are keen on policies that can help our small to medium-sized companies get better leverage in big markets, such as collaborating onshore to compete offshore.

“The development of our mineral sector could make a big difference to our exports, as could adding water in areas of high agricultural potential.

“Exporters also tell us they would like more in-market assistance which could be an area of increased investment in future budget rounds. This could spread the good work that NZTE does to a larger pool of exporters.

“Another area of potential we need to tap into in a smarter way is using our Government procurement spend with local companies to develop new technologies that have export potential around the world.

Managing director of IT and telecommunications managed service integration company Lume, Richard Cheeseman says independent audits by his company have revealed a worrying frequency in the number of companies with this vulnerability.

“We find that many ex-employees and suppliers can still access the networks of companies – either via virtual private networks (VPN) or through the “cloud” – long after their association has ended.

“Most New Zealand companies, being relatively small, don’t have dedicated IT governance or a policy and procedures manual that is kept up to date, with fundamental changes in the business environment.

“It’s not just technology. The way we are working is changing too, with more and more employees requiring secure remote

access to a company’s network, whether its because they’re working from home or are on the road a lot.

Mr Cheeseman says updating remote access security protocols should be a part of business policies and procedures manual and somebody within the company should be given direct responsibility for ensuring it happens.

“It is also likely, particularly with employees, that their mobile phones, tablet computers and even home PCs have automatic exchange access to company email. That access should be removed when they leave.

“In the past we had physical security. Now the ‘heart’ of a company’s operations are virtual, which brings with it a whole new way of having to think and act about these things.

“If we can’t see it or touch it, we tend to neglect it and this can be extremely dangerous.

“For example, what’s to prevent a disgruntled employee or supplier sending defamatory or nasty emails to all your customers? What’s to prevent them ordering supplies if you have a credit account ?”

Kiwi companies fare well in optimism stakes New Zealand is ahead of the global curve for business buoyancy, according to Entrepreneurs’ Organisation (EO) research Results from the organisation’s latest Global Entrepreneur Indicator, a biannual survey of business owners from around the world, show Kiwi companies are taking a glass half-full approach.

The survey focuses in part on performance-related metrics, such as jobs, profits and debt loads and partly on business climate, including access to capital and predictions about the economy.

NZ EO member and founder of Just Water International Ltd, Tony Falkenstein says “New Zealand entrepreneurs are far more positive about the future than their overseas colleagues. They are seeing increased revenues and profitability going forward, and increased hiring of staff.

“I believe that New Zealand is outperforming other countries in the world due to the Euro problems, the global financial crisis and the droughts in the USA. New Zealand entrepreneurs are seeing the ‘food need’ being as good for New Zealand as the ‘mining’ boom has been for Australia.”

A snapshot of the survey findings includes: Jobs Entrepreneurs are hiring at a much faster pace than they were a couple of years ago • Sixty three percent of NZ entrepreneurs predict an increase in the number of contract or part-time employees during the coming six months, compared to only 49 percent globally • Fifty one percent of NZ entrepreneurs reported net increases to their number of full-time employees during the six months preceding the survey • Fifty seven percent of NZ business owners expect to increase their number of full-time employees in the coming six months Business environment NZ entrepreneurs are much more positive about the current business environment than entrepreneurs in other parts of the world • In the current survey 46 percent of NZ business owners expect economic improvement, compared to 33 percent globally

• Less than a quarter, 14 percent in NZ and 23 percent globally, of entrepreneurs expect economic conditions to worsen in the coming six months

• Eighty nine percent of NZ business owners surveyed said they predicted a increase in the net profit during the next six months, compared to 76 percent globally

• Ninety four percent of NZ respondents said access to capital either improved or held steady during the previous six months, with nearly a third (28 percent) reporting it became easier.

• Sixty eight percent of NZ entrepreneurs reported an increase in net profits in the six months prior to the June 2012 survey, compared to 68 percent globally

Revenue and profit Though still trending upward, marked regional differences exist, with Europe, the Middle East and South Asia decreasing the global average. NZ is performing ahead of the global curve with future predictions for growth looking strong

• Seventy percent of NZ business owners reported increasing revenues during the previous six months and 78 percent expect increases in the coming six months.

Learn more about the EO Global Entrepreneur Indicator and to read the full reports, visit www.entrepreneurindicator.com

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Profile | World of Wearable Arts

ing the world When art and fashion are woven around the human form it can entice, inspire and enrich. Spinning, twisting and twirling, this magical yarn has drawn audiences into an intricate sphere of artistic ingenuity.

The Brancott Estate World of Wearable Arts (WOW) has found a formula which has not only brought art to the everyday New Zealander, but is now spinning it onto the global stage.

Each spring, this magical extravaganza is held in Wellington to audiences of 50,000 people over a 12 show season. The preparations for this year’s show, which is set to be from September 27 to October 7, are already well underway.

Corazon Miller gains a glimpse into its workings and the new woman at its helm, CEO Meg Matthews.

More than just a dream Meg is a newcomer on WOW’s stage this year, coming onboard less than 100 days before the show. A once awestruck member of the audience at three WOW shows, Meg says as a viewer she found the show unforgettable. “I completely loved the dichotomy of how it really is hard to describe or define, yet so impossible to forget.”

Now, stepping into the shoes as CEO, the woman in charge of the overall management of the company, its strategic direction and fiscal performance, has left Meg feeling understandably privileged and excited to be given her dream job. “I felt very honoured to be offered a position. WOW is now in its 25th year and has a very impressive track record, so I was very excited by the opportunity to work with a talented team of committed people.

“I respect every aspect of the organisation; WOW is inspiring and really encapsulates what it means to have a vision. Working in such a creative environment is a dream.

I could get lost for hours looking at the historic collection of garments that WOW has procured over the years.”

It is therefore no surprise to learn that Meg found it very easy to say “yes” and take on the job.

“

I respect every aspect of the organisation; WOW is inspiring and really encapsulates what it means to have a vision.

- WOW CEO Meg Matthews

event on the international design, fashion and costume calendar. With its beginnings back in 1987, in the small town of Nelson, it has truly become a global phenomenon with entries from as far afield as the USA, UK, Australia, India, Thailand, Israel, Fiji, Canada, Japan, China, Korea and of course New Zealand.

The creative factor aside, Meg says the biggest difference she has found to any previous positions is that as WOW CEO she is fortunate to be able to work directly alongside the shareholders, Dame Suzie Moncrieff and Heather Palmer. “It is inspiring to have two enthusiastic entrepreneurs as my mentors providing the wealth of knowledge that can only be gained through working in the organisation over the years.”

This year WOW was even shipped out to perform, for the first time, at an overseas festival in Hong Kong. The show, which was part of the Hong Kong Arts Festivals 40th anniversary, was a success with all the tickets selling out.

WOW wows

However, despite her obvious love for the creative, Meg does not hail from an artistic background herself and as a result is the first to admit there is a steep learning curve.

Meg says WOW is already an “incredible brand” for New Zealand and as part of her new role she is looking forward to working with Dame Suzie Montcrieff and the rest of the team to identify and implement new strategies to build upon the brand’s success.

But her passion combined with her more than adequate track record in management

WOW, which is now in its third decade, is considered by many to be the most creative

Wealth of knowledge

”

has her in good stead for dealing with whatever challenges running an artistic organisation may bring. As the former head of marketing, Australasia, for Air New Zealand, Meg has experience in the key disciplines of finance, human resource management, strategic planning and marketing.

Meg says it is her wish to continue to develop this brand turning it into an everyday language and genre – around the world. “The high-energy show has an incredibly wide appeal and the broadest of audiences one can possible encounter...it has no language barriers.

“This provides many opportunities to develop the international status of the event.

The success of WOW’s debut public show in the Hong Kong Arts Festival has given us great confidence in our international growth strategy.”

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Profile | World of Wearable Arts

WOW Since 1987 • 4,500 WOW garments seen on the stage • 6,800 WOW garments created • $1 million handed out in prize money • 23 countries have entered the show • 340,230 people have seen the show • 8,862 cast & crew have worked on it • 36,376 total WOW Star package supper bags • 11,490 total WOW VIP Table dinners.

Local boost Meg says the last economic impact survey done by WOW emphasises just how relevant and vital the event has become to the local culture and community. Aside from adding to Wellington’s already vibrant reputation as one of New Zealand’s great artistic cities, it has, according to the survey, also injected $1 million per day into the local economy. Sixty percent of WOW’s audience come into Wellington just to see the cultural extravaganza.

Home sweet home Despite Wellington hosting the show, for the past eight years, Meg says Nelson remains, and always will be, WOW’s home. “Having the Nelson office has never hindered the show and it allows Dame Suzie to remain connected with all the influences that have made her show scripting ideas so creative and ground-breaking.

“The company’s owners reside in Nelson, the WOW art and the Classic Car Museum is in Nelson and the historic garment collection is kept in Nelson.”

Being based in Nelson has simply meant that the team behind WOW has learnt to run an efficient, “well-oiled” system. Meg says complexity is something that is inevitable

with any stage show of this size and magnitude - regardless of where it is run.

It’s certainly a huge show, with around 180 designer garments, $150,000 in prize money, more than 100 models, dancers and children - all of which takes a 12-18 month “labour of love” to get from conception to stage.

“The show relies on an extremely talented production, creative and administration team to ensure that around 200 garments and 400 cast and crew are in the right place at the right time.

“On average we pack and transport seven, twenty-foot containers between Nelson and Wellington for the show season. We have up to 15 Nelson staff move to Wellington for nearly six weeks depending on their role.

Fast WOW facts • First shown in 1987 as a promotion for a rural art gallery in Nelson • Dame Suzie Moncrieff’s original vision was to exhibit art in the form of a live theatrical show • It has since grown to international acclaim • Major contributor to NZ’s reputation as a creative and design led country • Every year the WOW judges select over 150 garments from designers from all over NZ and around the world to compete for around $150,000 in prize money • The garments are showcased in a two-hour theatrical extravaganza, that twists convention perceptions of both art and fashion and weaves them into a performance that has been described as Mardi Gras meets Haute Couture at a Peter Gabriel concert directed by Salvador Dali.

“Along with the obvious staging that is stored in Wellington we also store a lot of ‘support’ type equipment that we only use for the show…everything from the 400 pieces of front of house signage, to AV screens and TV’s to simple things like a coffee urn.

“Modern technology and good flights by our partner Air New Zealand between Nelson and Wellington mean our teams are very nimble. We like to think we have the best of both worlds, getting to live in beautiful rural Nelson and spend part of the year in the urban creative melting pot of Wellington.”

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Interview | carboNZero

Zero tolerance It’s difficult to find a hotter topic right now than climate change and the extent of our impact upon it. Considering what’s at stake, the old stiff-upper-lip approach of ‘keep calm and carry on’ doesn’t really cut it, and this is where carboNZero comes in.

The carboNZero programme was established in 2001 by Landcare Research New Zealand Limited. The programme is based on more than a decade of research on climate change, greenhouse gas measurement and carbon monitoring.

Its goal is to provide robust tools for individuals, organisations and events to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions or carbon footprint with the highest level of credibility and integrity.

Karen Pasco talks to carboNZero acting chief executive Dr Ann Smith about the programme, her role in it and what they’re trying to achieve.

What is the carboNZero programme?

“The carboNZero programme is a scheme that provides the rules and guidance for individuals, companies’ products and services to be certified as carbon neutral.”

Why was it introduced?

“Initially, the carboNZero programme was introduced for individuals and companies wanting to take action to reduce their climate change impacts. Individuals were concerned about the impacts of their air travel. Companies were concerned about the impacts of energy use and freight to overseas markets. In the mid-1990s there was an overseas campaign that targeted the ‘food miles’ associated with New Zealand exports.”

What research prompted its introduction?

“In the early 1990s, Landcare Research had a number of research programmes that focused on measuring greenhouse gas emissions and carbon monitoring. This research linked the concept of rewarding landowners for restoring native forest on land where production was marginally profitable with companies wishing to reduce the impacts of their carbon footprint. Through this research, Landcare Research created the first carbon credits in New Zealand and facilitated the first examples of companies becoming carbon neutral. The carboNZero programme resulted from this research.”

How does it work?

“You (individuals and companies) measure your carbon footprint, put in place a plan to reduce your carbon emissions and offset your remaining unavoidable emissions by purchasing carbon credits. The carboNZero programme then audits your carbon footprint and emissions reduction plan and certifies that you have met the requirements or rules of the programme. Companies that measure and reduce their carbon footprint can choose to be CEMARS certified (Certified Emissions Measurement and Reduction Scheme).”

What impact has its introduction had?

“The carboNZero programme has influenced the development of the voluntary carbon market in New Zealand and what actions are required to become carbon neutral. Over 700 organisations and many products across five countries have been certified through the programme. Over the past five years, the carboNZero programme has certified carbon footprints that add up to more than New Zealand’s annual national footprint, which is around 70 million tonnes of greenhouse gases. These companies are actively working to reduce their emissions.

“NOTE: the greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide (from burning fossil fuels), methane (mainly from agriculture and landfills), nitrous (mainly used in electricity transformers); these gases have different impacts or global warming potential in the atmosphere; they are collectively measured as tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents where carbon dioxide has an impact of one.”

What businesses are being certified?

“CEMARS and carboNZero certified companies can be found in almost every sector including food and beverage, utilities, transport, airports, construction, finance and banking, higher education, health, tourism and accommodation.”

What businesses are eligible to join the carboNZero programme?

“Any business can register to become certified through CEMARS or the carboNZero programme. Any company required to report their carbon footprint or actively working to reduce their carbon footprint will find the framework and rigour provided by the carboNZero programme helpful.”

How are businesses reacting to it?

“The feedback that we get from CEMARS and carboNZero certified companies is great. You need a good measurement to identify where the hot spots are in your carbon footprint.

Generally, reducing your carbon emissions requires you to put in place electricity and fuel efficiency, water conservation, waste minimisation and green travel plans. These are all part of a company’s sustainability journey. Success in reducing emissions becomes part of a company’s story and great marketing material.”

What are some of its success stories?

“As a programme we have had many successes such as: becoming the world’s first internationally accredited greenhouse gas certification scheme under an international standard called ISO 14065, being recognised

“

Antipodes Water, carboNZero certified product

These leading initiatives are great to see. Not just seeing results from clients when they reduce their carbon footprint, but also when they reduce their costs as a result and New Zealand and overseas businesses become leaner and meaner. Those success stories really motivate the team.

- carboNZero acting chief executive Dr Ann Smith

”

by the Carbon Disclosure Project, being recognised by the UK Government, and now we have measured and verified over 75 million tonnes of CO²e.

day activities cause emissions and take action to manage and reduce the largest sources of these emissions (you can use our free calculators on our website to do this).

“To put that in perspective it means we have measured and verified footprints that collectively are more than New Zealand’s entire annual carbon footprint.

“Where emissions cannot be further reduced or are unavoidable, some organisations and people choose to invest in projects elsewhere that reduce emissions. This is most often done by purchasing and cancelling offsets from trusted carbon credit projects overseen by governmental or international agencies with the authority to issue tradable units or carbon credits created by these projects.”

"However, the success we really cherish and enjoy is the success and achievements of our clients. Clients that achieve world firsts, like the New Zealand Wine Company with the first carboNZero certified wine, Bridgestone and the first carboNZero certified tyre.

“These leading initiatives are great to see.

Not just seeing results from clients when they reduce their carbon footprint, but also when they reduce their costs as a result and New Zealand and overseas businesses become leaner and meaner. Those success stories really motivate the team.”

What are the major steps New Zealanders need to take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

“Burning fossil fuels for activities such as transport and electricity generation are generally where most New Zealanders emissions come from. But the most important contribution that individuals, communities, organisations and businesses can make, is to understand how their day-to-

What are some easy ways businesses/ farmers could reduce their greenhouse gas emissions?

“Farms are businesses and like most businesses, farms can look at energy and fuel being used in various parts of their farm. If you can reduce your usage, you are reducing emissions. And, by the way, you will reduce your costs, which can really help farmers. Just need to be smart about using resources.

“A large proportion of agricultural emissions come from livestock and fertiliser use.

Although it seems there is not a lot that can be done about this, there is some great research being done by Landcare Research and the other Crown Research Institutes – have a look at the greenhouse gas projects reported on their public web pages.”

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Bridgestone NZ’s Ecopia tyre, carboNZero certified product

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carboNZero acting chief executive Dr Ann Smith

J.Friend and Co, carboNZero certified product

VnC Cocktails, CEMARS certified product

What considerations do people need to make in various sectors?

“They need to first consider the fundamentals of the business e.g. what is necessary? Then look at all other operations, what could be done better, smarter and more efficiently.

Generally most industries will have a necessary function which emits emissions, but that function is imperative to use to remain competitive in that industry.

“For instance, a courier company needs to use cars and fuel to run their business. But what they can do is look to use more fuel efficient vehicles, look at ways of streamlining delivery runs, provide drivers training and incentives to operate their vehicles more efficiently etc. The courier company could also look at the energy use in their offices, waste to landfill and try to reduce the amount used. There are many things that can be done.”

What is your role at the carboNZero programme and your main objectives?

“I manage technical strategy for our programme and lead a team of dedicated environmental experts and auditors who are passionate about reducing greenhouse gas emissions. I am also responsible for the technical development and quality of the programme and related research.

I also participate in the development of international standards for greenhouse gas accounting and reporting to ensure that the certification of our clients is based on international best practice.”

What prompted you to take up this role?

“I was using the science and stories from the carboNZero programme as examples in my teaching in the UK before I came to live in New Zealand. I was running a masters programme in environmental management for business and all my

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”

Interview | carboNZero

“

What tertiary education have you completed and degrees/doctorates/ professorships do you hold?

We need our planet to be safe and healthy in the widest possible sense.

Every little bit helps no matter where you are. Through the carboNZero programme I can help make a difference.

- carboNZero acting chief executive Dr Ann Smith

students were middle and senior managers from business and industry. Later, I joined Landcare Research and I was delighted when I was asked to be programme leader for the carboNZero programme. I felt that the research programme had the potential to be a successful business.

“There is a real opportunity to take our expertise to the world and make a real, tangible difference in reducing emissions. I want to leave the world a safe and healthy place for my grandchildren to grow up in. I can’t do that alone.

“We only have the one planet to live on. No company would set out to trash the planet in its business plan. So the converse implies that the majority of businesses want a safe and healthy planet. If we needed to find another suitable planet to live on, we should have set out to find it 50,000 years ago.

“We need our planet to be safe and healthy in the widest possible sense. Every little bit helps no matter where you are. Through the carboNZero programme I can help make a difference.”

“I have a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in botany and psychology from the University of Adelaide, a doctorate in marine biology from the University of London, and a professorship in environmental management for business from the University of Hertfordshire.”

”

What previous roles had you been working in prior to this one and where were they?

“I have significant expertise and experience in environmental management and sustainable development strategies.

Previous roles include designing and running the masters programme that I mentioned above, sustainability coordinator for a large UK University and project manager for collaborative projects designed to help businesses improve their environmental performance.”

How do these contribute to your present role?

“Having a background in environmental management and real hands on experience in trying to reduce environmental impacts for large entities, have helped me to understand the problems our customers face and to tackle these with wider sustainability objectives in mind. This experience enables me to shape the vision for our programme to be effective for our clients and to make a difference for the environment.”

Where do you want the carboNZero programme to be in the next five years?

“I would like the programme to be world leading through its credibility and integrity.

I would like our programme tools and guidance to be easily accessible, practical to use and able to be integrated with existing business systems. I would like our brands to become symbols associated with clients and consumers who have made the environmentally responsible decision to reduce their footprints. I would like our programme to be making a difference for organisations and the environment on a world wide scale.”

How do you intend to get it there?

“By being science-based, robust and practical, ensuring that we continue to lead the world with our certification rules, tools and guidance. If participation in our programme helps our clients to reduce their emissions and costs and helps them meet stakeholder demands for sustainability action then it makes good business sense to do this. We are also working on some big projects, which will get attention. But in general, with commitment to our programme principles and hard work, we believe we can be the next New Zealand success story.”

If you would like to know how carboNZero certification could help your business call 0800 CNZERO or visit www.carboNZero.co.nz

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News | Lifestyles

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Mirabelle rings

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Premium computing

Ring ‘blingin’ fashion These gorgeous rings are part of the Mirabelle collection of rings and earrings designed exclusively for Kate Sylvester, inspired by the cult film and soundtrack Reality Bites; think Gen Y, first love, first heartbreak.

Each piece is hand-made in New Zealand and available in gold or silver. When it is not shining on a finger, keep this ring safe in its cute, red leather, love heart pouch.

HP all-in-one PC It’s the best of the tablet and smartphone realm rolled into one bigger and better package on the HP TouchSmart. HP promises that its latest touch screen computer will deliver some of the best touch technology that you will ever experience on a PC, on its biggest screen yet. Its cutting-edge touch technology with a sleek all-in-one design has resulted in a revolutionary PC experience. With its Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium system and tilting monitors, it is designed to be both comfortable and high functioning. An added bonus is the integrated apps and games that keep you entertained, informed and in touch.

RRP: $238 Available from: shop.katesylvester.com or Kate Sylvester shops nationwide

RRP: $2499 - $2899 More information go to: www.hp.com

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Island wine Obsidian Viognier 2011

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Tech savvy bottle opener

This boutique wine made on New Zealand’s own Waiheke Island is a must-have. With its pale straw colouring, this wine has floral aromas of honey suckle and citrus blossom with a subtle apricot and vanilla undertone. It has a refined but focused palate with sweet fruit and subtle oak giving it a unique complexity. Quite simply, it is the perfect partner to an evening meal.

iPhone bottle opener

Go to: www.obsidian.co.nz

The iPhone claims to do just about anything, from waking you up in the morning to recording your heart-rate. But there is one thing it hasn’t been able to do – until now; open a beer bottle.

The solution is simple; use this funky case turned bottle opener.

RRP: $39.95 Available from: www.notsocks.co.nz

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Sustainably fashionable Chica Rosa Clutch Bag in Silver

It’s the perfect clutch for any girl interested in protecting the environment. This beautifully designed bag has been hand-made in Brazil from recycled aluminium pull tabs. Made as part of an initiative to create work locally in Brazil, each bag is signed by the person who made it and you can also go online and read all about their lives.

This makes for a great clutch purse with a difference, one that is the perfect size for a phone, lippy and credit card.

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“Green” tea Eco Cup – tea lovers edition An Eco cup for tea lovers, this cute version of reusable coffee cups are made of stylish porcelain, which provides an alternative to the disposable coffee or tea cups. Take it to your local café, use it at home or show off your stylish earth-loving ways at the office.

RRP: $19.90 Available from: www.funkygifts.co.nz

RRP: $89.99 Available from www.boltofcloth.com

28 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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News | Lifestyles

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Indonesia’s Island Collective Gili T Islands Just a short two hour, exciting (or terrifying – depending on how much of a thrill-seeker you are) fast-boat trip away from the Bali shores, are a set of picturesque atolls which promise a tranquil island holiday.

Bugatti diva espresso machine

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Coffee art

Crossing the Wallace line from the Oriental region over to the northernmost tip of the Australasian region, you will find the West Nusa Tenggara province and three of its most attractive gems – the Gili Islands of Gili Meno, Gili Air and Gili Trawangan.

Gili Meno is the smallest of the three islands, and with its castaway feel is perfect for honeymooners or those simply wanting an escape from civilisation. Gili Air is probably the least developed of the three and provides a real Indonesian island community experience for those who fear the tourist masses. Gili Trawangan is the most popular of the three atolls and as a result is commonly called the party island, with its spattering of bars and restaurants.

The Case Bugatti Diva espresso machine is the queen of all fine Italian design. Available in striking red or stunning chrome, this product features a 12-bar pump, 16-bar steam pressure, thermo block heating element, one litre water tank, a steam nozzle for frothing and heating milk and can be used with both coffee pods or ground coffee for 1-2 people. An innovative drop system stops any coffee escaping. With a quick warming time of two minutes this is truly an investment for your morning fix.

However unique characteristics aside, all three idyllic atolls are home to the powdery white sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters, which provide an idyllic time away from the rowdy shores of Bali. With its clear turquoise blue waters and stretches of white beach, the land and island marine life, it’s a holiday that is both relaxing and exciting. Go diving or snorkelling, watch the marine life dart by, see the pretty corals in their glorious colour and watch the turtles laze in the warm tropical sun.

RRP: $2,099 Available from: www.whare.net.nz

Vespa table lamp

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Lighting up

However cat-haters must beware, being trapped on the island these feline creatures have bred and now rule the roost basking on the beach or in a café chair – just look before you sit.

Being car free may seem like another problem to city slickers, but these islands are so small going for a walk around doesn’t take long at all; and if you do get tired, on your way back there is always one of the horse-drawn taxi carriages.

This Vespa Table Lamp is a very special and elegant object - its inspiration comes from the headlight of the 1946 hub cover of a GS vespa. It is a must-have for scooter enthusiasts or for anyone who appreciates classic Italian design and style. This very practical and functional unit featuring some of the historical themes from over the years of Vespa production.

For those staying the night there is a range of accommodation suited to all budgets; from the five-star villas with all the perks, to a small beach-side bungalow.

For more information go to: www.gili-paradise.com

RRP: $595 Available from: www.iconic.co.nz

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Swiss Time Zuric Partime

Bolt of Cloth cushions

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Chic cushion wear

Choose from one of the many unique designs (linen or cotton) Bolt of Cloth has wrapped around its nice comfy cushions; from the New Zealand-inspired Tui in Red cushion cover, to the more exotic Las Senoritas. If these don’t fit your style – call Bolt of Cloth and it can, more often than not, custom-make a design to suit your needs.

This Swiss-made timepiece is a geometric version of the hourglass, which shows both the elapsed time and the proportion remaining. It is a work of art that is uncomparable; no ticking, no trickling, and no blinking digits.

A right angle within the circle shows the hours horizontally and the minutes vertically. The elapsed time is shown in white and the blue represents the hours left in the day. For those wanting a more traditional timepiece, never fear, a push of a button reverts the hourglass into a digital display of time.

RRP: $ 981.55 Available from: www.partime.ch

RRP: From $39.99 - $89.99 Available from: www.boltofcloth.com www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 29

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31/08/12 1:19 PM

News | Hot Spots

Springing into the CBD Hidden amongst the corporate grey maze of our big-little-city CBD are little splashes of entertaining colour and boutique businesses that promise to enchant.

Auckland is often given a tough rap from New Zealanders around the country, who unable to see past the city mayhem, write it off as an unfriendly, uninteresting ,cold part of the country.

But, for those willing to be surprised, the city of sails has more than its share of fun. All you need is a little map dotted with X’s to mark the perfect go-to spots.

Start with brunch at the Contemporary French Café; L’Assiette.

With its range of freshly baked pastries and tarts, daily specials and a full sit-down menu served on a sunny outdoor terrace; L’Assiette is the ideal place to start off a day in Auckland’s CBD. Set in the idyllic spot just a stone throw away from the viaduct harbour and steps away from Britomart’s array of boutique shops, this little French café is a vision covered in a chic, homey and urban colour.

Its menu has a healthy spattering of traditional French favourites, like the delicate sweet crepes or the classic croque

monsieur, as well as a variety of other French-European-Kiwi infused cuisine.

Top it all off with friendly service from waiters and waitresses who hail from the shores of France itself, L’Assiette promises a decadent French affair to put a spring into your step. So take a seat in the spring sun and enjoy a slice of French within Auckland’s CBD – you won’t be disappointed.

For more information call (09) 309 0961 or visit: www.lassiette.co.nz

Go shopping in Auckland’s newest shopping district: Britomart Precinct.

Once upon a time Britomart was underwater, but after the district was levelled out it was used as a main business area in the 1880s. It fell into a state of disrepair in the early 1990s but has since been injected with a new zest for life.

Today as you wander through the area, you will be privy to modern artworks in its large square plazas, and the overarching elegant history of the surrounding buildings – 18 of which date back from the 1880s to the 1920s.

These elegant heritage buildings are now home to many New Zealand and international quirky, designer clothing boutiques. While the brand-new shopping gallery Atrium on Takutai is home to flagship stores from several international fashion and beauty brands. Pick-up seasonal goodies at the City Farmers’ Market, shop around the precinct’s treasure trove of fashion, shoes, home-ware and specialty stores.

Men, who shudder at the thought of an endless array of shops, need not fear as there are plenty of male-orientated goodies to be found. And if that doesn’t work there is also no shortage of cafes with a good mag or a bar of “pick-me-ups” to sit in while you wait.

You can round it all up with dinner and a drink or three at one of the local bars.

Agents and Merchants: Nestled in a secluded lane in the heart of Britomart, this cute yet classy restaurant offers tapas to dine for, combined with an elaborately exciting wine-list featuring wines from New Zealand and all around the world.

To find out more call (09) 309 5854 or visit: www.agentsandmerchants.co.nz

Housebar; Hotel DeBrett: Sit back and relax and enjoy the ambiance of this little house-bar that is away from the hustle and bustle of Auckland’s evening streets. Enjoy a classic cocktail, sip a boutique beer or indulge in a glass of wine from a carefully selected list of NZ vineyards.

To find out more call (09) 925 9000 or visit: www.hoteldebrett.com

Stay the night at Hotel DeBrett: A unique luxury boutique hotel experience in the heart of the city of sails. Hotel DeBrett’s iconic building has been stylishly rejuvenated into a 25-room luxury boutique hotel.

Every room is individually designed and complemented with eclectic furniture, New Zealand art and photography. A private drawing room has been created for exclusive use by hotel guests - while

a glass roofed atrium and courtyard form the central focal point for guests, diners at Kitchen Restaurant, a finalist in the Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year Awards 2012.

All in all Hotel DeBrett promises an idyllic stay for business and pleasure travellers alike.

To find out more call (09) 925 9000 or visit: www.hoteldebrett.com

Northern Steamship Co: The Steamship is a big beautiful public house with very smooth surrounds to wind away the hours. With its gorgeous 130 year old headquarters of the Northern Steamship Company to draw you in; it’s the ideal place to come in sit down and enjoy a hearty meal and classic Mac’s beer while admiring a piece of history transformed.

To find out more call (09) 3743952

30 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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The natural way to look good Couleur Caramel organic makeup offers a range of beauty and health benefits and is now available at the Wise Cicada health store in Newmarket High quality organic makeup

It is renowned for its delicious, organic plant-based menu and wide range of natural healthcare products.

Couleur Caramel is ideal for women seeking quality, values, authenticity and choice. More than just a product, Couleur Caramel offers an accessible and alternative consumer choice that will protect our future.

Along with a great variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes, there is an array of environmentally friendly and healthy products and you can browse the book store after you eat.

Couleur Caramel provides an innovative and exclusive range of paraben-free natural make-up that combines natural ingredients and up-to-date technology.

The range consists of more than 200 products that are easy to apply, enabling you to achieve fantastic results every time. It includes foundation creams and liquids, lipsticks, blush powder, eye shadows, eye and lip liners, mascara, nail polish and sun bronzing powders.

The most exciting aspect of the range is that it’s all organic. The products provide a healthier alternative to mainstream cosmetics, containing the purest vegetal and mineral ingredients that treat the skin and provide it with therapeutic benefits.

It is an oasis of healthy options for the mind and body sitting right in the middle of Newmarket and a great place to purchase Couleur Caramel

Couleur Caramel hydracoton foundation The hero product in the Couleur Caramel range is its leading hydracoton foundation, which contains pheohydrane, a marine active ingredient that instantly hydrates the skin. Its original molecular structure has a natural affinity with the skin and protects it from drying out.

Hydracoton foundation contains a unique combination of organic ingredients, including organic shea butter and organic cameline oil, which is highly concentrated in essential fatty acids. It also includes phytosterols and tocopherols.

Essential fatty acids and phytosterols are renowned for their moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties. Tocopherols are natural antioxidants that protect the skin from ageing and the harmful effects of the sun.

The ingredients have been carefully chosen to help moisturise, regenerate, smooth, protect, nourish and revitalise the skin.

They are rich in essential fatty acids, multi-vitamins, and powerful antioxidants to help combat the visible signs of ageing.

Couleur Caramel is today the only full makeup range in New Zealand able to provide organic makeup certified by Ecocert, the European organic certification authority.

TJ Clark NZ Limited distributes the Couleur Caramel range in New Zealand.

Director Doug Kinnon says there is a real hole in the market for organic foundations. “Couleur Caramel has really set the bar high with its organic foundation,” he says.

About Couleur Caramel Couleur Caramel foundation ingredients include: • Organic jojoba oil, which is non-greasy to the touch and restructures, smoothes and tones harsh skins.

• Phytosqualane, which prevents dehydration and restores skin suppleness.

• Organic sweet almond oil, which contains 24 percent linoleic acid.

“It’s a liquid foundation that dries to a powder finish. It’s very hard wearing and resilient and its organic credentials are as high as possible through Ecocert.”

• Kalahari’s melon oil, which offers moisturising, regenerative and restructuring properties.

Couleur Caramel was developed in France in 2003 by the Nature.cos company, which aimed to establish sustainable developments in natural cosmetics.

• Biophytosebum olive extract, an emollient with a non-greasy effect.

Couleur Caramel products are not tested on animals, but instead are tested on volunteers in an independent laboratory.

• Babassu oil, which provides great fluidity and penetrates more than coconut or palm oil.

• Organic field horsetail, which is rich in organic silica and offers many benefits to the skin.

Now available at Wise Cicada Doug Kinnon says Couleur Caramel makeup is available in about 50 health stores and pharmacies throughout New Zealand, as well as through the Couleur Caramel and TJ Clark websites.

However, Couleur Caramel makeup has recently become available at Wise Cicada, a large and popular health store and cafe in Newmarket.

Wise Cicada has gained a well-deserved reputation as a destination for people who make conscious and informed spending decisions, and has everything you need to live a sustainable lifestyle under one roof.

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Wise Cicada

Couleur Caramel Natural Makeup

23 Crowhurst Street Newmarket Auckland T (09) 529 9529 info@wisecicada.co.nz www.wisecicada.co.nz

P O Box 998 Kerikeri 0230 T (09) 407 5962 F (09) 407 5963 www.couleur-caramel.co.nz www.tjclark.co.nz

31/08/12 2:45 PM

New dawn for rental vehicles Environmentally aware and sustainability conscious government departments, public corporations, non-governmental organisations and Auckland businesses can now consider hybrid vehicles when renting or including it in their corporate policy for renting vehicles.

Currently, hybrid vehicles offered for rent are expensive and are only offered by few rental companies. These vehicles are generally sold after three years to avoid the high cost of repair and particularly expensive high-voltage battery replacements.

Hybrid vehicles a pleasure to drive A breakthrough in hybrid battery reconditioning and fuel efficient technology for hybrid vehicles by the people at The Battery Clinic have now made hybrid vehicles available to hire at the same price as standard petrol vehicles.

They start as low as $25 a day for a budget vehicle and range up to $115 a day for a people mover, with discounts available for longer hire periods and loyalty customers.

People having their first experience driving a hybrid vehicle will be surprised at just how quick and responsive these vehicles are.

This is because the electric drive develops full torque immediately, unlike petrol vehicles that need to reach the prescribed RPM to achieve full torque. When more power is required the petrol engine kicks in for smooth and powerful acceleration.

Sitting in the vehicle at traffic lights takes a bit of getting use to, as the engine stops and the whole vehicle becomes silent. This is a great fuel saving feature, especially when waiting for someone while the ignition is still on and in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Braking is a whole new experience as well. Unless hard braking is required in an emergency, energy from braking is recovered through regenerative braking to charge the high-voltage battery. As a result, braking is smooth and responsive with little risk of the wheels locking.

Hybrids now affordable to rent Vehicles available for rent cover the whole range of hybrid vehicles and are categorised as budget, economy, executive and people movers. There is even a fully equipped executive limo for hire complete with a fabulous entertainment system, fridge and bar.

Long-term rentals are also available for companies that need to provide their employees and sales force with comfortable and reliable transport. As there are no limits to kilometres travelled on all hybrid vehicles offered for rent, fuel savings by themselves can often cover the cost of hire.

Hybrids offer exceptional fuel savings. The Prius ZVW30 runs at 23kms/litre; the Alphard hybrid runs at 14kms/litre; the Estima hybrid at 14kms/litre; and the Prius NHW20 at 22kms/litre.

Hybrids available for rent Green Cars Limited was set up to service, equip and supply hybrid vehicles to participating agents throughout the country.

Participating agents in the Auckland region are Scotties Rental in Auckland city, Matthew Rentals in Onehunga, Able Rentals in Mangere and Green Rental in Otahuhu. Northland is serviced by Green Rentals Keri Keri.

This is a new and exciting direction for the rental car industry and is a win-win situation for all. The rental customer gets an affordable vehicle to rent within their respective budget and saves more than half the fuel cost.

The operator gets fully service and maintained vehicles, thereby reducing the cost of ownership on their rental stock to zero.

The general public benefits from less pollution, better air quality and a huge reduction in our carbon footprint.

The Battery Clinic 33 Great South Road Otahuhu, Auckland (0800) 228 333

Scotties Rental 27 New North Road Eden Terrace, Auckland (09) 3033912

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Able Rentals 75 Masssey Road Mangere, Auckland (09) 2757570

Green Rental Otahuhu 33 Great South Road Otahuhu, Auckland 0800 968749

Green Rental Keri Keri Keri Keri Airport (021) 402401

Matthews Rental 47 Neilson Street Onehunga Auckland (09) 6221593

31/08/12 1:19 PM

o v c er l o o C The Kiwi Canvas Company has the perfect shade sail for summer or protective screen for winter, as well as a wide range of other high-quality canvas products. Plus the company can custom manufacture any canvas product you require, including waterproof shade sails, retractable shade sails, awnings and outdoor furniture.

polyethylene and come in a range of 12 different colours.

Discount for Auckland Today readers

screens can completely enclose an area, protecting it from the weather.

The Kiwi Canvas Co can design and build any structural shade sail for permanent shade. Its pagodas offer a customdesigned shade sail that looks great and is reliable.

The Kiwi Canvas Company is offering Auckland Today readers a five percent discount on all products.

Ziptrak screens come in either clear or shaded fabric and do not put the fabric under any tension due to the design of the drop screens, resulting in longer product life.

Another commercial sun protection option is a canopy, which is ideal for shop and restaurant fronts and is made from an aluminium frame designed to your specific size and shape, as well as retractable awnings, which can be wound in when not required.

All shade products are manufactured to the highest standards and come with guarantees: 10 years for shade sails; seven years for canvas; up to five years for PVC; and 15 years for stitching.

The Kiwi Canvas Co guarantees its workmanship for the life of the product.

Custom canvas covers

The Kiwi Canvas Company can supply the perfect canvas cover for any application, whether it’s to protect the tools and materials in your ute, cover a sandpit, protect your barbecue or to All products are made in New Zealand to cover your boat. high manufacturing standards, utilising only the best materials available Marine and boat covers are designed worldwide. The business was purchased to perfectly fit your boat and are made in 2010 by Mark Brookes, who has from a light-weight, waterproof material worked hard since then to grow the in a wide range of colour options. company and the move to a large, new Brookes says while customers tend manufacturing premises in Kelston has to buy shade products in the summer allowed Brookes to continue to expand and weather-protection products in the the company’s product range. winter, The Kiwi Canvas Co can design the perfect solution to every problem, Shade and weather sails all-year round.

Shade sails are always in big demand coming into summer months and can be custom built to suit any requirement and environment, whether it is to keep customers comfortable outdoors or to offer pupils reliable sun protection in the playground.

Ideal for schools, kindergartens, cafes, commercial and residential areas, Kiwi Canvas Co’s shade sails offer more than 95 percent UV block-out, depending on the colour. They are made from high-quality 330GSM high-density

AT 96 Pages.indd 33

Mark and his partner, Loretta Riley, have been fortunate to employ experienced and professional staff to help run The Kiwi Canvas Co. “We’ve also been blessed with establishing a relationship with a fabric importer who has searched the world for the best fabric,” Mark says.

“Right from the outset we’ve only used the best materials that money can buy. Our shade cloth comes from South Africa; our canvas comes from Spain; and our PVC comes from Korea.”

Simply tell staff that you saw this editorial in Auckland Today to receive your discount.

Exciting new beanbag range The Kiwi Canvas Company has relaunched its popular outdoor beanbags in a bright new range of colours. Owner Mark Brookes says while the beanbags have always been popular, the previous colour range was not all that exciting.

“We’ve now brought in a new type of material that’s available in 16 vibrant colours, plus camouflage,” he says.

“There are bright blues, lime greens and they’re proving really popular.”

The outdoor beanbags are an ideal solution for extra seating on your deck or in the garden, providing a comfortable option for all ages.

Vital business relationship The Kiwi Canvas Company has developed a beneficial relationship with QCD Limited, a leading importer of fabric and hardware products for sail making, canvas fabrication and shade manufacturing.

“It’s a really important relationship we have with those guys,” Mark Brookes says.

“It has enabled us to produce a very high-quality product. We’re not the cheapest in the market but we back everything with a lifetime workmanship guarantee.”

The Kiwi Canvas Co has always made PVC and mesh window screens to enclose patios and decks or to create an additional outdoor room.

All drop screens feature powder-coated frames in any colour required.

The Ziptrak screens were developed in Adelaide and are ideal for use during summer and winter.

The Kiwi Canvas Co only uses PVC that is .75 commercial grade clear PVC and is fire retardant on its drop screens.

Kiwi Canvas Co product range The Kiwi Canvas Co is capable of manufacturing the exact piece you need, to your exact standards and specifications. It specialises in: • • • • • • •

Shade sails Shade screens Covers (for boats, utes etc) Outdoor furniture Pagodas Blinds and interior And more.

The Kiwi Canvas Company Unit E, 14-16 Westech Place, Kelston Auckland 0600 T (0800) 400 689 M (021) 400 489 E mark@kiwicanvas.co.nz www.kiwicanvas.co.nz

New drop screen product The Kiwi Canvas Co has recently launched its new Ziptrak drop screen, which is spring loaded for ease of use.

Owner Mark Brookes says the Ziptrak

31/08/12 1:19 PM

Business Development | Vanilla Homewares

The home of

beautiful things Seeing a niche market, as well as an opportunity to fit in business with family life, has seen Lesley Burgess not only establish Vanilla Homewares and Clothing Ltd, but expand it.

Tired of having to drive some distance when it came to buying gifts for people, Lesley decided there was an opportunity to create a business in her hometown of Waiuku.

Knowing that she would be able to balance children with the business was also a big plus.

“I found there was a spot here, I knew what I wanted and where it was going – I just went for it.”

And so it was that Vanilla Homewares and Clothing was born.

Since opening in 2007, Lesley has sourced a variety of beautiful items for people to admire and select, either to treat themselves or others. She is dedicated to ensuring that she does not overstock items saying. “I usually only buy one or two of each item so that what you purchase is original. You’re not going to find everyone else with it.”

Gorgeous delights The range includes some sumptuous and well-known brands. With Citta luggage, glassware and robes, watches from Oozoo, Linden Leaves body care products, a range of jewellery, Avanti fondue sets and Roc sunglasses among other things.

There are impeccable art works and sculptures, handbags and scarves, blankets, as well as a full range of baby items.

Where possible, Lesley tries to buy New Zealand made products to support the many talented creators in this country. Vanilla also has selected items on its online store – meaning you don’t even have to leave the

house to find the perfect gift or indulgence for yourself.

Creating luxury gift baskets for special occasions is a favourite of Lesley. She is able to put together not only a visually beautiful, but tempting array of goodies that will impress even the most particular recipient.

Lesley also offers a free gift wrapping service and is able to ship your requests to anywhere in New Zealand.

“

Creating luxury gift baskets for special occasions is a favourite of Lesley. She is able to put together not only a visually beautiful, but tempting array of goodies that will impress even the most particular recipient.

”

Sensational new clothing range

In September, Lesley and her friend Antoinette, are launching their new clothing range which will be sold exclusively through Vanilla.

The Brown Ant label, which will cater from sizes 8 to 24, includes a range of beautiful pieces, which you can select as individual items or collect to create a co-ordinated and cohesive wardrobe that you can wear any way you choose.

The summer range to be released in December promises to be striking with its more tailored items which will take you from work to evening – perfect for the Christmas party season.

The idea for the range came when Lesley couldn’t find the type of clothing she wanted to display in her store. As a result, Brown Ant will be specifically tailored and designed for the New Zealand woman and will be totally New Zealand made.

Vanilla is open six days a week, MondayFriday 9-5pm and Saturday 9-1pm.

SOMETHING for

EVERYONE

at Vanilla Homewares

34 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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www.livewires.co.nz Ph: 04 576 0055

Vanilla Homewares and Clothing Ltd 2 Kitchener Rd Waiuku T (09)235-0300 T 0800-110-003 F (09)235-0301 info@vanillahomewares.co.nz www.vanillahomewares.co.nz — Advertising Feature

31/08/12 1:19 PM

Business Development | Kagi Jewellery

Jewellery

with a difference

One young New Zealand designer has catapulted her jewellery brand to the top of the fashion ladder in a mere six years, earning the accolade as one of the fastest growing companies in the country.

Kagi, a distinctive designer jewellery brand, created by entrepreneur Kat Gee, was named in the 2011 Deloittes’ Top 50 for its exceptional growth during the past two years.

The award has left the 30-year-old feeling proud of all the work she and her team have achieved. “This rewards my team for the massive effort they have put into Kagi over the last few years.”

Creative marketing Her success is partly due to her ability to create a unique market niche in an industry long dominated by the more expensive, traditional gold and diamond market. “The jewellery category was very set in its ways; dominated by old thinking and gold and diamonds ruling the roost.

“One key strategic move was the move from fashion and gift stores into jewellery stores, but without losing the aspects of the fashion model that works so well, particularly branding and seasonal collection.”

Kat had to work to win both retailers and customers over with her innovation, costeffectiveness, new materials and approach to jewellery. And she delivered with her brand Kagi, which offers a range of uniquely bold but simple accessories, made from individually selected gemstones and pearls.

Some Jewellers were initially resistant to Kagi’s affordable price points and were fearful of this cannibalising their other stock. But Kat, and her passionate team, eventually won them over with her clear logic, one by one. “Why pay silver’s ridiculously high prices when stainless steel looks like silver, is more resistant and durable and under half the price?

Customers want the effect of silver but half the price.”

Only the finest value Today Kagi can be found in a range of stores nationwide. The range’s versatility, and stunning signature style, adorned with a vast array of fine gemstones and pearls – all at an affordable price – has made this chain an allround winner for women of all ages.

“Kagi hand-selects only the finest gemstones and pearls for our designs,” Kat says. “Each and every gem is unique and as such, has a natural variation that we feel simply adds to its beauty.

“Along with their natural appeal, gemstones have long been believed to possess special healing powers. These additional benefits make Kagi gifts more memorable and meaningful for that special someone.”

Precious gems Agate: Many of Kagi’s pendants are made from hand-cut Brazilian Agate. This is the perfect stone for balancing mind and body and finding your inner strength South Sea Red Coral: If you wish to attract love then Red Coral is the gem for you.

Obsidian: Kagi’s smooth black necklaces and bracelets are made from Obsidian. Known as the stone of truth, Obsidian was used in the Stone Age to make weapons.

Quartz: Quartz is a powerful healing and energy amplifier.

Cat’s Eye: Kagi’s Lady Grey necklaces and bracelets use Cat’s Eye (Chrysoberyl). This is a stone of good fortune and good luck.

It helped that Kat was already on top of the game, recognising some years ago there was a shift away from the market of expensive, precious jewellery, to a more branded and affordable luxury. “Kagi performed and before long became many stores top performing brand,” she says.

Shiny metals

Kagi care guide

Kagi uses a combination of high quality metals in our designs.

• Avoid direct contact with perfume and make-up

Valued pearls Long cherished as symbols of purity, perfection, elegance and affluence, pearls have held the hearts of women across the ages. With Kagi pearl necklaces and bracelets it’s easy to see why.

Freshwater pearls: Every Kagi pearl is unique and as such has a story to tell. Nothing beats a classic strand of pearls to brighten your complexion and make an understated style statement.

Shell pearls: Sometimes Kagi may use perfectly round pearls in its designs. Where you see these perfectly circular pearls these are shell pearls that formed from genuine deep-sea clam shell beads coated with crushed pearl nacre.

• Do not wear jewellery while sleeping, showering, washing dishes or doing physical activities • Clean jewellery regularly with a soft damp cloth, and don’t use soaps • Store pieces separately in your Kagi satin pouch to prevent scratching • Kagi offers a product warranty of six months from date of purchase for all Kagi designs.

Kagi Jewellery 0800 GO KAGI (465244) T (09) 529 9272 E customercare@kagijewellery.com www.kagijewellery.com

— Advertising Feature

‘We love working with Cat and her Future Focused team.

They are always willing to help and smart advice is only ever a phone call or email away. Cat really works closely beside you and is a truly member of your team who always has the businesses bottom line in mind. We haven’t looked back since working with Future Focused Accountants and can’t recommend them highly enough!'

Kat Gee – Designer/Director, Kagi Limited

Focused on preparing you for the future.

We are passionate about helping business owners improve results, along with providing you with the tools you can use to self manage business performance. As experienced professionals, we can offer high level advice at an affordable cost.

Future Focused Accountants Ltd P.

(09) 570 1801

M.

(021) 562 563

E.

catriona@futurefocused.co.nz

As one of New Zealand’s leading logistics Providers to our growing international On-Line Retailers, First Global Logistics is very proud to be associated with such a fantastic and expanding brand as Kagi Jewellery.

We trust our unique services to them have assisted their growth in on-line and retail sales into the Australian market.

If you are interested to discuss a solution for your International On-Line Logistics please contact us on 09 255 5015 or visit our website www.firstgloballogistics.co.nz

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 35

AT 96 Pages.indd 35

31/08/12 1:19 PM

Business Development | Scullys NZ Naturally

Purple passion There is certainly something calming about looking out over a lush field full of fresh lavenders; breathing in the calming scent on a warm summer’s day.

But if a lavender field is not quite within your reach, Scullys’ nature care range has made a business out of capturing this natural dreamy scent in a bottle. Its founders Judy and Gerry Scully were inspired by the gorgeous spread of lavender fields across the ditch and decided to transform this passion into a lucrative business.

“In 1990 we went to Australia and visited the Yuulong Lavender Farm; we thought it was quite nice. We did a bit of research to see if we could grow it on our own land and found we could.”

Flourishing fields of purple soon filled the landscape of their rural property, five kilometres from Bulls, on the west coast of New Zealand. The first five acres of lavender was planted in 1991 and the business followed shortly after in 1992 quickly becoming a blooming success.

Cultivating success Judy and Gerry began by harvesting the lavenders and using its natural oils to produce a range of unique, bath, body and home products, whilst having an on-site café and gift shop to draw people in. “We converted the old wood shed on-site and had Devonshire Teas, lavender meringues and many other treats among the clean and fresh aroma of lavender which surrounded the area.”

As business simply grew bigger and bigger, Judy says they made the decision to stop growing their own lavender fields and focus on developing the Scullys’ range of bath, body and home products themselves.

Judy says setting off on the adventure of starting a business from scratch was certainly a challenge. “My husband was the salesman; he was great, travelling the country sourcing where we wanted to go.” In the early stages Scullys concentrated on lavender products from the farm directly to stores; a pharmacist friend expressed doubt on a new label surviving more than a few years. “This year Scullys is celebrating 20 years.”

The answer to success most probably lies in both Judy and Gerry’s ability to identify target markets and sell. The product range began small, but with some gentle nurturing it grew; from the original gift shop based at

their farm to a global supplier of top-quality beauty products. Today its products are sold to stockists throughout New Zealand, Japan, England, America and Australia.

Mixing scents The range has grown to match Scullys’ growing markets, with new products made annually. In addition to the original lavender, a wider variety of scents have been brought into the product range to diversify and grow the Scullys’ scope of products; from rose to green tea, citrus, coconut and blackcurrant.

Judy says all the oils are top quality to ensure the products retain their superiority. “They are expensive oils, but it gives richness to the product.” All have been designed to be nourishing, moisturising and enhancing.

While Scullys has obviously been a success, Judy says it’s not always as simple as it looks.

As the creative genius behind the product range Judy admits to meeting the occasional creative wall. “It is a challenge having to constantly think of new ideas,” she says.

But this creative block is often short-lived.

“Sometimes I don’t get to sleep thinking about it and then I get a brainwave at night.

“I enjoy the challenge of staying in the market, I have always been in the beauty industry, even as a young girl I loved perfumes, I loved experimenting and mixing

scents.” It gives Judy a “buzz” when she knows she’s hit the spot with her range of products; when she gets emailed or receives calls from people who tell her they loved the product.

Judy’s latest release is a 100 percent natural moisture balm that is packaged in a box. It is a simple mix of shea butter, cocoa butter, beeswax and olive oil.

Judy says at present the markets are following an organic trend which Scullys does endeavour to provide for. But Judy adds that they don’t claim to be an organic company.

“We don’t claim to be organic but we do produce beautiful body products which are made from 100 percent natural ingredients and certified organic oils.”

Keeping it pure She says both her and Gerry have always tried to incorporate integrity and a responsibility for nature and the environment into their work.

“We use recyclable packaging and no products are tested on animals. We are proud to have sourced many New Zealand ingredients that are used in the making of our range of bath, body and home products.”

However within this extensive range of products the original lavender hand-cream has always retained a loyal following. Judy says what has branded Scullys is its handcream. With its non-greasy and fast absorbing cream it is perfect for all skin types and leaves hands feeling soft, smooth and delicately scented.

In addition to simply being a lovely scent the lavender has a range of benefits; it’s calming and relaxing and has both healing and antibacterial properties.

Scullys 104 Bridge Street Bulls New Zealand T (06) 322 0953 www.scullys.net.nz

SCULLYS SINCE 1992 MADE IN NEW ZEALAND

www.scullys.net.nz

— Advertising Feature

BATH - BODY - HOME Indulge in head-to-toe luxury with our nourishing and soothing products everyday or give as a beautiful gift.

Made using natural oils, waxes and butters containing vitamins and anti-oxidants which are highly beneficial to your skin..

Enjoy. Naturally for your pleasure

36 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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COME AND VISIT US AT THE AUCKLAND HOME SHOW Hall 5, Stand #519

Power savings Lighting up a home or business is often an expensive business; from the power bill to constantly replacing the bulbs. Not to mention the impact it has on the environment. According to Consumer NZ approximately 20 percent of the world’s energy consumption is in artificial lighting.

But there is a lighter option for the environment – light emitting diodes (LED).

This more energy efficient form of light can replace up to 70 percent of the more traditional light sources.

Despite being around since the 1960s LED lights were not always seen as the better option; but their continuous development has made them better, brighter and cheaper.

Liberio Riosa, founder of LED lighting specialist LZ New Zealand, points out that 95 percent of the energy consumed in running an LED is transformed into light, as opposed to the 10 percent of energy that the standard incandescent lamp uses to make light – the remaining 90 percent produces heat.

In addition Liberio points out LZ New Zealand has a replacement LED light that only uses nine watts to produce the same amount of light as a standard 50 watt halogen light bulb; that’s a huge 82 percent savings in your energy bill.

Creating Light Liberio founded his company on this premise of saving energy and the environment. “I had a strong interest in energy savings and the environment. After working in the corporate world I wanted a change.” And so LZ New Zealand was born.

Today it holds pride in its place as a leading New Zealand manufacturer and supplier

of LED lighting solutions for residential, commercial and industrial markets. “We believe in providing a quality product that we can guarantee.”

While the company is New Zealand-based, in the years since its conception, it has expanded and now caters for New Zealand, Australia, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Philippines and for countries around the Pacific.

Light bonus The reasons for going LED are numerous; it’s environmentally friendly, robust and longer-lived, dimmable and cost effective.

Environmentally friendly LEDs reduce the impact on the environment even once they have stopped working, thanks to the luminaire which is made from 85 percent recyclable materials.

Robust LEDs are physically robust; where incandescent bulbs contain a fragile filament and a compact fluorescent lamp has easily broken glass-tubes, LEDs are made from semi-conductor material often encapsulated in clear plastic.

Longer lived The lifespan of an LED light is 50,000 hours (20 – 30 years) versus, the 2,000 – 6,000 hours of a typical incandescent light bulb.

An LED’s long life makes it a practical option for areas where it is difficult to

LZ New Zealand service at a glance

replace bulbs – such as stairways or in houses with high ceilings.

LED Fittings / Strip Lighting Module lighting Strip lighting Round recessed down lights Square recessed down lights

Dimmable There is no need to be blinded by the light, LED lights can, with a compatible dimmer fitting, be turned up or down as much as you please.

LED Flood Lights 10 watt – 100 watt 120 watt – 320 watt Highbay Lighting

Instant on LEDs provide full light instantly, without the warm-up time other forms of lighting need.

LED Retrofit Options: T8 Linear Tubes GU10/MR16/G24 Par30/Par38 Edison Screw / Bayonet

Cost effective LEDs are cost-effective because of their low running costs and long life.

A 7W LED bulb costs $35 and uses $40 worth of power in its 25,000 hour life – a total cost of $75. The running costs for the equivalent 40W incandescent bulbs are much higher; you will need 25 incandescent bulbs at a dollar each, which in turn will consume $230 of power over 25,000 hours – a total of $255.

Other Energy Saving T8/T5 Adapters Fluoresave New Products Arriving Large-scale LED display screens LEC Exit Signs

Flick the switch Doing a changeover to LED lighting can be easy with LZ New Zealand, who provide a range of products for anyone wanting to save the planet and their wallet from feeling the pinch.

LZ New Zealand, LZ International (Asia Pacific) C/o PO Box 303474, North Harbour, Auckland 0751, New Zealand LZ New Zealand, Unit C, 238 Bush Road Albany, Auckland, Free Phone 0800 FOR LED, Phone (09) 950 6371 Fax (09) 950 6372, Email info@lzled.co.nz

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Focus | Royal Oaks Racquets Club

A smashing good time In need of a jolt of newfound energy, a place to fully thrash out your frustration safely and increase your overall wellbeing? There’s no better place than on a squash or tennis court.

For Aucklanders this place is close at hand with the Royal Oak Racquets Club - a wellestablished establishment with top-of-therange facilities to hit that ball to your heart’s content.

Hidden in the suburban jungle of Auckland’s Royal Oak, this racquet club offers people a place to play tennis, squash and socialise with other club members. Having both squash and tennis gives members a choice of sport from January right through to December; with tennis during the summer and squash all-year-round.

The most recent “claim to fame” is the New Zealand men’s number one, Rubin Statham, who is a member of the club and trained by Royal Oak Racquets Club coach Gary Swinkels.

But despite the obvious calibre of some of its players, club manager John Fletcher says the club has its door open to anyone, from the seasonal tennis or squash player to absolute beginners. He says the club prides itself on providing excellent service for its 700 plus members, whether they are junior or senior, new to the club or long-standing members.

From simple beginnings Back in the early days the club was simply a tennis club, but in order to meet the demands of a changing world, it made the move to incorporate squash into its grounds in 1964.

Today the club prides itself on being one of the oldest and most successful racquet clubs in Auckland.

John took over the reins in May 2011 and has aimed to bring a fresh approach to the club.

His vision is to attract new members while retaining the current one.

Claim to fame

With a background in accountancy and owner of a finance degree, John was well-equipped to take on the challenge of managing the club. His combination of experience, including having-been the owner and operator of a local mini-golf course as well as playing at various squash clubs for the last 15 years – meant the opportunity to be the driver behind the wheel was too good to pass up.

Whilst members are often at the club just to enjoy a good racquet game, the Royal Oak Racquets Club has also proven it can provide a more than adequate training ground for some of New Zealand’s greats.

Since taking over, a new squash club coach has been hired, monthly squash leagues set up for members, and the introduction of a Women’s only club night on Wednesday evenings.

Established in 1904 the Royal Oak Racquets Club has been a long-time member of the neighbourhood and has built its reputation throughout the years as being a great, fun place to train, play and socialise.

Meet the team Tony Dye: New squash coach Tony has been coaching squash at all levels around the world for 17 years and is proud to be associated with the Royal Oak Racquets Club as its resident squash professional. He also contracts to Squash Auckland.

His roles include: coach instructor for the National Coaching Framework, coach mentor, Auckland Junior Squads and is involved in introducing squash to schools.

Tony was previously the Auckland/Northland Regional coach and resident pro at the National Squash Centre and at Herne Bay Ponsonby Tennis and Squash Club, before travelling to America and adding racquetball to his tennis and squash coaching qualifications.

Tony has a passion for leading, encouraging and supporting players to achieve their full potential and get the most out of life through their sport. He is available for one on one coaching and group coaching at all levels and ages.

Gary Swinkels: Gary has been a top Auckland tennis player during the past 25 years and has a wealth of knowledge and experience. He has coached players of all levels and has an excellent rapport with both junior and senior players.

Gary has worked with a number of top level juniors who have accumulated 22 New Zealand National titles under his tutelage and is currently working with NZ’s number one male senior tennis player, Rubin Statham.

Angela Swinkels: Angela has been a top Auckland and New Zealand player with a highest national senior ranking of number 11. She has been coaching for more than 20 years and enjoys working with people of all levels and abilities. Angela is contracted to Tennis NZ as a touring professional coach for NZ’s elite young players. In 2002, Angela was awarded one of the inaugural Prime Minister’s coaching scholarships.

For Pro Shop or Tennis Coaching enquiries, contact Angela 027 513 8536, Gary 027 222 7009, or email rorc2@xtra.co.nz

38 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Focus | Royal Oaks Racquets Club The place to be With its extensive range of facilities the Royal Oak Racquets Club is both a fun place to smash a ball around and a place to have a great time. “We have facilities for both squash and tennis featuring five courts for each discipline and a variety of teams for all ages and experience levels,” John says.

The club also features a wide range of other quality facilities including the recently refurbished gym, swimming pool, bar and kitchen, Sky TV, with its projected big screen and a pool table. It is also home to an excellent pro-shop that sells top-quality sporting equipment at special club prices.

The gym, which was refurbished in December 2008, proudly hosts a range of new cardio equipment, free weights, benches and cable cross-over. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the gym is perfect for those with erratic or “out-of-the-ordinary” schedules. At a cost of $270 per year it is certainly a bargain.

During the summer months the club has its pool open until 9pm providing the perfect setting for people to dive into after a hard day’s work and training.

The club also runs a whole host of social events which are open to members and nonmembers. The bar is also available for private bookings, parties, discos and other functions.

Why hit a ball?

Tennis Playing tennis regularly is proven good for both mental and physical health. Tennis is not only a good way of thrashing out your frustration, but it is also good for your overall wellbeing. Those who play tennis score higher in vigour, optimism and selfesteem while scoring lower in depression, anger, confusion, anxiety and tension than other athletes or non-athletes.

Tennis also requires alertness and tactical thinking, which is said to help generate new connections between nerves in the brain and thus promote a lifetime of continuing development of the brain.

Squash Squash, which is played within four walls, is an exhilarating sport, which can give players quite a buzz from the resulting adrenaline of a good game. Being within an enclosed court means the game is fast with barely a chance for a break.

Playing squash will ensure you have a good level of fitness, including improved aerobic fitness with more oxygen circulating around the body, greater ability to burn off calories, improved flexibility and sprint speed, as well as improved hand-eye coordination and muscle strength and power.

John points out that Forbes Magazine called squash ‘the healthiest sport in the world’ when it compared the health benefits of squash against other sports.

Facilities in brief • 5 Squash Courts • 5 Tennis Courts – floodlit • Gym • Pool Table • Family BBQ Area • Licensed Bar • Meals available Monday – Friday • Swimming Pool • Lounge • Sports Shop • 2 Tennis Coaches • 5 Squash Coaches

Royal Oak Racquets Club 116 Symonds Street Royal Oak Auckland T (09) 625 7191 E office@royaloakracquets.co.nz www.royaloakracquets.co.nz — Advertising Feature

If you are contemplating selling your property, pick a winning team - Barfoot & Thompson - Royal Oak. Consistently striving to, and achieving top results for their clients.

Proud to be sponsors of the Royal Oaks Racquets Club for over 20 years.

Residential | Rural | Rentals | Commercial

For more information phone 09 625 6099 or visit our website www.barfoot.co.nz

www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 39

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Focus | Counties Cup

Pukekohe races ahead With the birth of the Auckland Super City, the vibrant country town of Pukekohe has now become an outer suburb of the greater metropolis.

However, the town known best for motorsport and its potatoes and onions has lost none of its character and continues to thrive just 45 minutes south of downtown Auckland.

Pukekohe has a good feel about it; it’s pretty and relaxed, with good shopping, bustling little businesses, its own café culture and a great community spirit.

Pukekohe Park, the home of the Counties Racing Club and its training centre, the motorsport race track, the Auckland District Apprentice Jockey School and the Counties Function Centre, are situated on the edge of town and proud to be part of that community.

One of the benefits of being part of the Super City is that next year, after an absence of four years, Pukekohe Park will once again be the venue for the International V8 Supercars in April.

In a deal brokered among the Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development Ltd, the Ministry of Economic Development, the Counties Racing Club and the International V8 Supercars - the event will once again return to Pukekohe.

The motor racing circuit at Pukekohe Park is a proven and well liked track among motor racing enthusiasts and it continues to play a vital part in that sport in the North Island.

Throughout the year the track plays host to large events such as New Zealand V8’s and New Zealand Classic bikes and is regularly booked out with driver training schools, numerous car clubs, private hires and various local charity events that Pukekohe Park proudly support.

So too is the horse racing track – boasting one of the longest straights in New Zealand it races without a bias which creates spectacular and exciting racing 14 times a year.

259 Parnell Road, Parnell Auckland

Ph: 09 3031912

Fax: 09 3001915 E: gthomson@akc.quik.co.nz www.antiquejewels.co.nz

Proud to be associated with the Counties Racing Club

The horse racing equivalent of the Supercars, the DHL Counties Cup meeting will be staged on Saturday November 24, and this race day gives you a chance to experience country racing at its best. With $450,000 worth of stakes on offer the Counties Racing Club will host its biggest day of the season with a large dose of local community support.

Specialists in race daywear and outstanding handmade headpieces for all social occasions.

58 King Street PUKEKOHE Phone. 09 239 1355 www.catwalkclothing.co.nz

The day features 10 fantastic races, including the $100,000 DHL Counties Cup and the $100,000 NRM Auckland Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes and there will something on course to suit even the most discerning racing enthusiast.

Comprising more than 200 acres, Pukekohe Park is one of the most attractive and well appointed race courses in the country, surrounded by magnificent old trees. It has numerous grassy banks providing great viewing areas to watch the horses’ parade and race on the track in true country style. It’s an ideal course to bring the kids and pack a picnic, or if you want something a little more upmarket, the facilities in the members stand can cater for your needs.

And what would a Cup Day be without a Fashion in the Field contest. This event, sponsored once again this year by New Zealand Woman’s Weekly, ensures that an element of glamour and colour is added to the occasion. The contest is held in the popular marquee village which features a variety of themed and catered marquees.

Catered by the team at the Counties Function Centre these marquees feature something for everyone including the popular Brancott Estate Ladies Marquee, the Colts and Fillies marquee for the young at heart, and a “trackside street” of smaller mini-marquees for groups of 10-30 people.

The Counties Function Centre is not just for ‘race day’ and utilises the numerous rooms available in the members stand at Pukekohe Park on non race days. It is a popular venue for weddings (as are the park-like grounds), 21st birthday parties and conferences. It also caters for the various motor sport events on the course and has a fine reputation for outside catering of weddings and various functions.

Counties Racing T (09) 238 8049 E karen@countiesracing.co.nz www.countiesracing.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Let us be the venue for your unforgettable event.

Tailored to suit your individual needs, style or occasion with facilities to suit large or small groups.

For a no obligation free quote contact: Fleur Johnston: 09 239 2080 email: fleur@countiesracing.co.nz For a visit: Pukekohe Park, 222 – 250 Manukau Rd, Pukekohe

www.countiesfunctioncentre.co.nz 40 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Property & Construction | Kiwi Roofing

Roofing made easy

The story began a decade and a half ago with eight employees all committed to a job well done. Today, in a heartening tale of home-grown success, Kiwi Roofing Ltd has grown employ more than 80 staff from its site in Highbrook industrial park.

Founder, managing director and business development manger, Paul Connell began the business by simply doing labour-only contracting. However, he found he was frequently being asked to price roofing work directly and so he pushed the boundaries of his business and developed the supply and installation side of it in 2001.

In 2002 Lito Banal came on board as a director and senior estimator. He brought with him expertise and knowledge, supported by degrees in civil engineering and quantity surveying from his homeland of the Philippines and 22 years of subsequent experience.

Paul, Lito and shareholder Fabian Hurihanganui, who acts as commercial contracts manager, together manage and ensure that Kiwi Roofing delivers service of the utmost quality to its clients.

Service at a glance • Free consultancy and quotation services • Competitive pricing and cost saving options • Fully supervised contracts

“

We have a reputation for doing what we say we’re going to do. Reputation is everything, because you are always judged on your last job.

- Business development manager, Paul Connell

• Efficient documentation services • In-house quality assurance systems • Full materials and workmanship guarantees • Specific health & safety manager • Site Safe Members

It has also been involved with the roofing and cladding on a glassworks plant in Penrose which had 40 staff working at heights of up to 38m.

Paul says Kiwi Roofing has shown it will deliver what it promises. “We have a reputation for doing what we say we’re going to do. Reputation is everything, because you are always judged on your last job.”

• Full backup services.

Building a foundation Kiwi Roofing specialises in metal roofing and re-roofing for commercial and industrial contracts throughout the North Island. The company doubled annual turnover in the first three years following its 2002 restructure.

Significant contracts have included the Sylvia Park and Takanini retail centres, various Mitre 10 MEGA stores and “Red Sheds” all around the North Island and a number of projects at Auckland Airport.

”

the design and preliminary costings stage that occur early in any project, right through to the end.

“By doing this we have generated opportunities for bigger projects down the track,” he says.

Paul adds that partnering with key suppliers has never been more important for Kiwi Roofing given the current market. “The recession reminds us of the importance of maintaining strong relationships with our suppliers.”

One of Kiwi Roofing’s main contractors gives its own testimonial; “Kiwi Roofing Ltd are the benchmark for all our sub-trades. If all our contractors had the same business organisation and work ethics it would make our life a lot simpler.”

Supersize brewery

Paul says this partnership and relationship building with its contractors has been part of a deliberate tactic, deployed in order to generate better co-operation with contractors and involvement in projects at the start; from

Few jobs match the scale and complexity of Lion Nathan’s brewery in East Tamaki.

Comprising seven buildings it included an integrated brewery, distillery, winery, bottling plant, warehouse and distribution centre.

We are pleased to be trading partners with Kiwi Roofing in the Waterproofing/Roofing market and would like to take this opportunity to wish them well in the future.

Ardex NZ Ltd

Ardex New Zealand Ltd are proud suppliers of Waterproofing Membranes to Kiwi Roofing.

Contact Kiwi or Ardex for your next waterproofing project.

Ardex NZ Ltd Auckland Phone 09 5800005 or call in to 12 Fairfax Ave Penrose.

42 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Property & Construction | Kiwi Roofing NZ

Work on the 16.7 hectare site work started in January 2008 and Kiwi Roofing came onboard a year later, bringing to the floor its expertise with roofing and cladding, applying it to the brewery’s packaging and warehouse areas.

There were tight deadlines in place as the Lion Nathan Brewery needed a smooth transition from its Newmarket site to the new premises; which opened in stages from 2008 – 2010.

Materials, labour and time management for the 65,000 sqm of roofing and cladding were three critical elements that needed to be met while navigating this contract with Mainzeal.

The new brewery was a super-sized complex with huge roof trusses, large pre-cast concrete elements and expansive roofing and cladding in the warehouse and distribution areas. Lion Nathan required the packaging area not to have too many columns, so there are just two rows in the working area beneath the roof.

Kiwi Roofing also worked with Aquatech Australia to install a siphonic drainage system – an acknowledged cost saving solution on large roof areas. It works on the principle that the height of the building is utilised by converting that height into potential energy, driving the water flow from the roof and therefore using fewer downpipes and outlets.

Paul says despite the challenges, good planning ensured its success. “The main roof areas were quite straight forward, but the over-riding challenges were the sheer scale of the project, the sheet lengths and the demand on labour resources. It required very good planning especially around the coil ordering programme and the loading to the roof of the 29m sheets.”

In total Kiwi Roofing was on site for 12 months working alongside sometimes up to 150 workers – all being individually managed by their own firms – and together they completed the project in March 2010.

Quality assurance Paul says time constraints are a common feature on commercial construction sites, and it is important to meet the expectations of clients who have a low tolerance when it comes to delays.

As part of Kiwi Roofing Ltd’s internal company processes, the company has its own Quality Assurance programme which systematically monitors and evaluates various aspects of a job. The company works to ensure the

Supplier of

“

Testimonial

Kiwi Roofing is focused on relationships. They are technically savvy, and this benefits their customers through their proactive value engineering and their critiquing of design details. More important is their reliability – if they say that they are going to turn up they do.

Phil Brosnan Regional Manager Naylor Love Construction Ltd

”

principles of “fit for purpose” and “right first time”, holds centre court in its daily workings.

The programme is a cost effective part of Kiwi Roofing Ltd’s internal sign-off giving management the assurance that everything has been completed to the highest standard within the time frame.

Health and safety a priority Kiwi Roofing decided six years ago that a specialist was required to manage the health and safety side of the business and so it employed its own H&S manager, Claude Christians.

With its own dedicated process in place, overseen by Claude, the health and safety of all employees is taken very seriously. The company has a “three strikes and you’re out” policy, for any infringements to the company’s Health & Safety policy.

Key Suppliers Metal Roofing: Suppliers of quality profiled roof/cladding sheeting and associated product. Suppliers of on-site roll forming equipment for clip fixed roofing solutions.

Skylight Roofing: Suppliers of clear light profiled roof/cladding sheeting including twin skin design solutions.

Suppliers of Industrial Turbine Ventilation systems.

Roofing Underlay: Suppliers of roofing underlay foils, building papers and BIB insulation products Roof Fixings: Supplier of high quality roof screw fixings, washers, anchors and sealants Wire Netting: Supplier of approved safety netting and other netting products Rubber Roofing: supplier of butynol membrane roofing products.

The company runs Site Safe and Vertical Horizons training and qualifications and all its supervisors are also first aiders. “Health and safety is an overall awareness of where we are, what we’re doing and what’s going on around us,” Paul says.

“We run a daily task analysis for each team to ensure everyone is involved in staying safe while working on sites. We are serious about this, so we have an infringement book to record anyone who doesn’t toe the line. We recently had a roofer sitting on the edge of a parapet with no harness who had to go under the three strikes policy.”

PIR Insulated Panels

• Roofing Panels • Architectural Wall Panels • Controlled Environment Panels

Proud to be associated with Kiwi Roofing Ltd

PH 0800 12 12 80

www.kingspanpanels.co.nz www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 43

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Property & Construction | Kiwi Roofing NZ

Success stories in brief Takanini Retail Centre

Auckland Airport

Main Contractor: Cunningham Construction Size: 18,000 s/m Duration: 2004-2005 Resources: Up to 15 staff

Domestic carpark building, international terminal extension and aircraft simulator building.

Sylvia Park Retail Centre Mt Wellington, Auckland Main Contractor: Multiplex Size: 42,000 s/m Duration: 2005-2008 Resources: Up to 35 staff

The Warehouse Whangarei, Snells Beach, Te Rapa, Kerikeri, Sylvia Park, Silverdale, Pah Rd, Pukekohe Main Contractor: Naylor Love Construction Kiwi Roofing Ltd has completed many contracts to date for the Warehouse throughout the upper North Island. Stores are designed to maximise natural lighting and insulation which requires attention to detail on every contract.

Mitre 10 Glenfield, Lunn Ave, Botany, Takanini, Napier, Hastings, Whanganui, Palmerston North Main Contractor: Euroclass Construction Having completed stores throughout the North Island Kiwi Roofing Ltd has built a strong working relationship with Euroclass and Mitre-10. This relationship has been built on its ability to complete cost effective contracts on time to a very high standard.

Main Contractor: Various Health and Safety is a key issue when working with the Airport Authority and our relationship has been build strongly on our proactive attitude and attention to detail.

Other Key contracts in the North Island • Ravensdown, Whangarei 2012 • Apex retail, Auckland 2011 • Seymour Distribution, Wellington 2011 • Plytech, Auckland 2011 • Q Theatre, Auckland 2011 • Air NZ Hanger 3, Auckland 2011 • Promax Engineering, Keri Keri 2011 • Placemakers, Albany 2010 • Bunnings Mt Wellington 2010 • Cadburys Warehouse, Mangere 2009-2010 • Waipara Centre, Keri Keri 2007 • Mainfrieght Whangarei 2008 • Godfrey Hirst Re-roof, Wiri 2009-2010 • Argyle Distributors, Harwera 2009 • Hooker Transport, Palmerston North 2007 • Croxley Stationary, Wiri 2007 • Whangarei Police Station 2008 • Snell Beach Primary 2008-2009 • Blackwoods Paykel 2009 • Crown Movers Albany 2006 • United Carriers, Whangarei 2006 • Crown Movers Albany 2006 • United Carriers, Whangarei 2006 • IMP, Palmerston North 2006.

“ Team effort Integral to Kiwi Roofing Ltd is its team of staff, who are guided by the company’s foremen.

“We put high demands on our foremen - they are role models to other staff and are the eyes and ears of the company. We are judged by their performance. Given the importance of this role we employ a couple of more senior foremen to provide support for others,” Paul says.

Testimonial

Completing fast track projects on time and within budget require the energies of competent contractors. Over the last five years Kiwi Roofing has been involved in a number of such projects. In all cases their professionalism has shown out from both a pricing perspective and their attitude to work within a team environment to achieve the desired result.

John Duffin Director Aspec Construction Ltd

”

In addition Kiwi Roofing Ltd also trains those wanting to work in the industry under its apprenticeship scheme. “We currently have six apprentices through the Apprenticeship Training Trust. We give them our time and training on the job to ensure they are learning to an acceptable standard which is not always easy when there are time constraints on big jobs.

“We are committed to further working in this market having invested in logistics and access equipment required for this type of work. Supported by Kingspan we aim to be specialist in large scale projects,” Paul says.

“Like every other aspect of the company’s operation, we want to do the training properly so these apprentices have the best introduction to careers in roofing and we provide better quality employees for the management team to run.”

So, what next? Kiwi Roofing Ltd promises to continue to maintain its market share while expanding its range of services to support key clients. “Bring on the next 15 years.”

Constantly evolving Kiwi Roofing Ltd is constantly looking for bigger and better ways of doing things.

So it has recently taken the step into the insulated panel market having completed two Countdown stores using Kingspan products.

The future

Kiwi Roofing Ltd Unit B, 6 Cryers Rd East Tamaki Auckland T (09) 263 9988 www.kiwiroofing.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Dimond is New Zealand’s largest manufacturer of steel roofing, and proudly supports Kiwi Roofing New Zealand.

www.dimond.co.nz 44 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Agribusiness | Baker No-Tillage Ltd

No-tillage… no-brainer A pioneering New Zealand scientist committed to providing sustainable food production, which is less invasive and produces higher yields, is taking the limelight on the world stage.

Inventor and scientist Dr John Baker has dedicated more than 30 years to the development of Cross Slot No-Tillage Systems, a revolutionary way of sowing seeds. His systems use no-tillage drills which penetrate through crop residue or vegetation on top of the ground and sow seed and fertiliser in different bands at the same time.

Dr Baker, who has a MAgrSc in soil science and a PhD in agricultural engineering, says it’s imperative that carbon remains in the soil and is not lost into the atmosphere through ploughing. He says studies show that 15-20 percent of CO² in the atmosphere comes from annual ploughing throughout the world.

“Carbon is a vital ingredient of soil. Plants that we eat all contain carbon. When they die they decompose and earthworms and other microbes take the products of decomposition, which are rich in carbon, into the soil and keep them there.

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This year Dr Baker was nominated for the World Food Prize, announced recently at the State Department in Washington. His nomination now carries over to 2013. He was also recognised for his achievement in the 2006 New Zealand honours when he was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to agriculture. The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) ranks Cross Slot systems as

its number one conservation agriculture technology and in 2006 commissioned Dr Baker to write a book on the science that underpins it.

“When the soil is ploughed it releases much of the carbon back into the atmosphere. The long term result is a reduction in soil’s organic matter, which in turn leads to soil erosion, dust storms and ultimately famine,” Dr Baker says.

“Ploughing takes away the food sources of microbes that hold the soil together. Organic matter also stores water and the loss of both decreases the crop yields.”

He points out it is incredibly important for the soil to gain and trap carbon “if we’re to feed the 50 percent extra population of the world by the year 2050”.

“Only four percent of the world’s surface has arable soil and we have to learn to farm it sustainably, which we simply haven’t been doing. That means no-tillage must replace ploughing as the mainstream food production technique.”

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An 18 m (60 foot) wide Cross Slot tool bar (bound for Australia) under construction at Baker No-Tillage Ltd’s assembly plant in Feilding.

The Cross Slot process causes minimal or low disturbance to the soil, traps the humidity, preserves the micro-organisms and soil life and largely prevents carbon from escaping into the atmosphere. Further, by leaving the stubble and straw from the previous crop to decompose on the surface of the ground, it helps sequester new carbon into the soil.

No-tillage is the equivalent of keyhole surgery as opposed to ploughing, which is invasive surgery and contributes to global warming.

The result of no-tillage is increased yields and

A New Zealand-sized Cross Slot no-tillage drill.

the near elimination of crop failure and soil erosion. The end result is sustainable food production which can feed millions of families.

Dr Baker says no-tillage saves up to 80 percent of a farmer’s fuel costs in establishing crops and pastures. Farmers typically use 50 to 90 litres of diesel per hectare during the multiple times required to establish a crop.

By comparison no-tillage uses 10-20 litres per hectare.

New Zealand farmers sow about one million hectares of new seeds each year. “Recent Massey University research suggests that if low-disturbance no-tillage was used universally to sow these seeds, it would result in about 1.5 million tonnes less CO2 discharged into the atmosphere annually.”

“With agriculture held up as being New Zealand’s single biggest cause of emissions into the atmosphere, such a saving would go a long way to meeting our conservation requirements under the Kyoto protocols,” he comments.

“No-tillage as an agricultural practice has the capacity to be one of the single biggest mitigators of carbon emissions. Any sensible person who has a concern for retaining carbon in the soil would support the widest possible use of low disturbance no-tillage on New Zealand farms.”

“It’s a classic no brainer.”

46 September/October 2012 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz

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Agribusiness | Baker No-Tillage Ltd

Dr John Baker, ONZM (PhD, MAgrSc, BAgrSc)

Q&A with Dr John Baker, chief executive and inventor of Cross Slot no-tillage technology

Dr Baker holds a PhD in agricultural engineering, a Masters degree in soil science and a Bachelors degree in agricultural science.

What are the long term goals for Cross Slot?

He initiated the project in 1967 and has led it ever since. He has published 80 international scientific papers on the science of no-tillage machinery and its interactions with soil, supervised some 26 graduate students on the topic, written countless popular press articles and made numerous television and radio appearances.

He continues to be the key-note speaker at international no-tillage conferences and addressed the US Senate on the topic in 1989. He is an acknowledged international authority in this area, which was recognised by the Royal Society of New Zealand with the award of a Science and Technology Medal in 1997.

From 1989-91 he was president of a USA no-tillage company and was director of the Massey University Agricultural Machinery Research Centre for 10 years before resigning to found Baker No-Tillage Ltd as chairman and chief executive.

He is a chartered engineer and fellow of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (England) as well as a member of the NZ Institute of Agricultural Science, the American Society of Agricultural

Dr Baker making his case at the World Technology Awards in New York.

Cross Slot no-tillage machines have won numerous technology awards at field days in New Zealand and Australia. Owners of Cross Slot machines have won numerous crops yield competitions and environment awards in NZ, England, USA and Germany.

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He created the initial vision, led the science and has played a leading role in all Cross Slot® design and business matters, as well as co-authoring four books on the subject.

An early opener design became known as the “Baker Boot”.

Baker No-Tillage Ltd recognises that it cannot make its Cross Slot no-tillage technology available to the world without partnering with the international marketing infrastructure of a larger multinational competitor. We expect in due course to partner with one or more such competitors to achieve this aim, but in the meantime we aim to hurt them in the marketplace.

Ritchie to present guest addresses to their annual or state conferences in Australia, USA, Brazil, Argentina, Ukraine, and Germany.

Engineering and the International Soil and Tillage Research Organisation.

The New Zealand Government recognised his achievements in the 2006 New Year’s Honours by making John an officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for “services to agriculture”.

In 2012 he was nominated for a World Food Prize Award which is awarded to outstanding individuals who’ve made vital contributions to improving the quality, quantity or availability of food throughout the world.

Nominations for this prestigious award, nick-named the “Nobel Prize for Food”, are selected by an international committee of scientists. The World Food Prize recognises contributions in any field involved in the world food supply. The nomination adds to the growing recognition of the contribution that Dr Baker and the Cross Slot no-tillage technology is making to the sustainability of world food production.

What potential growth do you foresee?

What investment opportunity does Cross Slot provide for Auckland business men and women?

To become part of the team that brings about the above long term goals.

It is almost unlimited. The available world market for such machines is measured in the hundreds of billions of dollars. And ours is technologically the best machine in this market.

The only limit is our ability to capture a share of this market and our limit to doing How would intending investors go about this is dictated by available capital. We getting more information about investing already know that our marketing model in the company? works (we’ve gone from zero to 20 percent of the NZ no-tillage market since 1998) We have a detailed information so there are very few unknowns in our memorandum that we would be happy to marketing strategies. share with genuinely interested parties.

What is your annual turnover?

What interest in the product have you had globally?

NZ $4-5 million.

We have been in talks with several multinational competitors who all tell us “hurt us in the marketplace and we will make you an offer you cannot refuse”.

We know they are all watching us and monitoring the uptake of the technology in the field. It is not a matter of if one of them eventually makes a move - it is a matter of when. You cannot have the best technology in the world without it making ripples within the industry. Every year that goes by our price increases.

Cross Slot No-Tillage Systems T (06) 329 2784 W www.crossslot.com E baker@crossslot.com

— Advertising Feature

Who endorses this product?

The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) ranks it as their number one conservation agriculture technology and commissioned us to write a 2006 book on the science that underpins it.

The US Department of Agriculture’s Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation 2 (RUSLE2) has already ranked the technology above every other conservation agriculture tool with which it has been compared in the USA.

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A 14 m (45 foot) wide Cross Slot tool bar with tow-behind air-seed and fertiliser cart in North Dakota, USA.

• The US Senate judged it to be of such significance that it asked the author to present the technology to a special session of the US Senate. National No-Tillage Associations have asked Dr Baker and Mr

NZ Profiles Proudly Support Baker No-Tillage -Cross Slot

P. 07 928 8888

sales@nzprofiles.co.nz

Masport support innovation and effective technology... and are proud to be a partner of “Baker No-Tillage” with provision of high integrity castings › Design Assistance › Pattern making › Toolmaking › Heat Treatment Masport Foundries Ltd 1-37 Mt Wellington Highway, Auckland Tel: 09 571 5867 | Fax: 09 571 5865

› Prototyping › Metallurgical Service

Merging Quality, Innovation and Technology Ph: (03) 344 2700 | Fax: (03) 344 2701

info@victor.co.nz | www.victor.co.nz

Proud to support Baker No-Tillage Ltd www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 47

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Initiatives | Christmas Functions

The formula for fun If you want your year’s end Christmas function to fully function, then the golden ingredient is fun. And arguably the key to this is location; if you hold your event at the right place then the fun factor takes care of itself.

So if it’s fun you’re after the Rainbow’s End is about as good a place as it gets.

It really is the perfect place for functions and every year many businesses and groups bring their teams and families for their end of year break up, or as a fun way to welcome in the start of another working year.

Catering for small or large businesses, Rainbow’s End is able to organise your complete function and you don’t have to worry about the detail involved with event management.

Businesses are assigned their own function coordinator who will handle everything so the company can just come along and enjoy the evening. Full catering and entertainment options including bands and acts can all be arranged.

Companies can have exclusive access to the park for a night function, or can book one of the private areas in the park for a day function; it is a very versatile venue with lots of different options. There are businesses that bring their teams in every year as they have such a great time!

Also brand new and exciting for this year is the addition of three new rides for the

younger kids. These rides will be open by Christmas and represent the first stage of a brand new $3.5m development currently underway at Rainbow’s End. The all-weather attraction is due for completion by Easter 2013 and will comprise of an outdoor covered area with some fascinating new rides and a fully enclosed area featuring separate birthday rooms, state of the art interactive games and a modern café.

These new developments will add to the already wonderful experience that companies, their staff and families have during their functions. So contact Rainbow’s End today to discuss your next fun filled event!

Visit www.rainbowsend.co.nz or email info@rainbowsend.co.nz

At A Glance | Extreme Edge

Scaling new heights We’ve all seen the images of rock Family fun Ready, steady, climb climbers clinging on with their “Families can benefit in big ways from climbing All you need is some comfortable clothing together – through being able to literally hold (suitable for easy movement) and everything fingernails to the underside of a each others well being in their hands – this else, including harnesses, carabiners and horizontal face jutting out from a creates real and lasting bonds,” Dean says. ropes are supplied. Both facilities cater for all sheer rock wall in what looks to be abilities and staff are able to teach you the “But also the shared joy of watching your an exhilarating, challenging and a rest. toddlers, young children or teens achieving sometimes unbelievable escapade. Extreme Edge Panmure manager Dean Garner the top of a climb/wall they may have initially Rock climbing requires physical, mental and emotional endurance. It can be a rewarding and exhilarating pastime where you challenge yourself against what can sometimes appears to be the unachievable and learn to place your trust in your fellow climbers.

knows exactly the thrills rock climbing can bring. His initial passion for rock climbing grew from mountaineering. “Rock climbing was much easier to get to. I got the basics, before heading off on a two year outdoor leadership course.”

All staff have climbing experience and are So what if you’re a beginner and want to learn further trained on Extreme Edge’s procedures. the sport? The best place to start is at your They go through a period of supervision local indoor rock climbing facility. before they’re allowed to take lessons on their Extreme Edge at Panmure and Glen Eden offer own. Safety is paramount at Extreme Edge. It an opportunity to learn and refine the craft of has a thorough risk management system in rock climbing indoors under the specialist eye place – with prevention rather than cure the main focus for all staff. of their fully trained staff.

been terrified of is very special. And vice versa - seeing Mum or Dad scale a wall to the top might mean little Timmy sees them as a bit heroic, rather than just Mum and Dad.”

Team time There is also the opportunity for businesses to take part in team building exercises, creating an environment to encourage, trust and support, as well as sharing in an amazing experience and building confidence.

Dean is quick to point out rock climbing is a sport for everyone. “Anyone who wants to try something that pushes them outside their usual level of comfort, and have a load of fun “The excitement of getting yourself up to 14m and a great work out at the same time, should above the ground while clinging to a wall with try it. your friends helping you get back down safely, is a huge buzz.”

Extreme Edge Panmure 40C Morrin Road Panmure Two great locations Auckland T (09) 574 5677 The Panmure building is a converted aircraft F (09) 574 5678 hanger - the best possible building for a E info@extremeedge.co.nz climbing centre. There’s a kid’s climbing club and more than 200 routes so you will never Extreme Edge Glen Eden get bored.

5 Waikaukau Road The Glen Eden facility offers more than 150 routes with climbs ranging from 10m to 12m.

There are also 31 Climb Zone areas for children meaning there is plenty to keep them occupied.

Glen Eden Auckland T (09) 818 3038 E west@extremeedge.co.nz www.extremeedge.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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Initiatives | Christmas Functions

Ten tips on planning a Christmas function The festive season is also called the silly season for good reason; with loads on it can sometimes be a crazy time. Planning the annual staff Christmas party should be fun, but it can also be stressful.

John McKenzie, chief enthusiast from events and entertainment company Enthuse has a look at some planning tips to make sure your staff Christmas party is a huge success this year and doesn’t add to your stress.

The best idea is to get a professional event company to help you out, making it the best possible celebration at Christmas for staff, and you take all the credit, but there are also some things to consider to ensure success.

1. Decide on a theme Just because it’s Christmas doesn’t mean it has to be a Christmas theme. Themed parties are loads of fun, help build excitement and anticipation.

You can build in elements of your own industry or business into the theme and it gives you another reason to hand out fun awards.

It’s important to be really clear on why you’re having the party. Is it just a party, is it to show appreciation to staff for their efforts, or is it an incentive for an extra drive to launch into next year? This will help with planning all the next steps.

2. Decide on where you want to have it as early as you can This means whether it’s held in-house in your building or in an appropriate venue that can be themed well or at an entertainment venue. So don’t limit your search to just urban areas - just plan to provide adequate transport.

3. Work out a budget early Your budget should cover catering, including beverages, theme, entertainment, invites and any additional activities and gifts. Divide your budget by the number of staff coming so you have an idea of cost per head. It’s important to remember this is actually an investment in staff, so just how much per head it costs should equal how much value you put on your staff’s wellbeing. Also, are

partners invited? If you need help deciding this, go back to the first point - the reason for the function.

4. The invite sets the scene early, so make sure it’s good The invite sets the early standard for the function, so make it good and memorable.

It’s far too easy just to send out an email.

Use email for follow up teasers and use staff notice boards!

5. Get good entertainment Mix it up a bit, do something a bit different and book entertainment. It doesn’t have to be for the whole function, it can just be an entertaining and memorable ‘character’ that adds a fun, surprise element, or it could be Bad Santa and his crew that become the Christmas themed party band. Good entertainment can really add something fun and unique and when worked in with a theme makes it even more memorable. Just remember, entertainment doesn’t have to be confined to a stage!

6. Book good catering This will ensure everyone is happy and make sure you cover special dietary needs. It also means you are being a responsible host.

Make sure there is enough food for everyone and serve it sooner rather than later.

7. Consider transport options Consider how staff will get home after the function. Purchasing taxi vouchers to hand out as required is a good option to make sure staff get home safely.

8. Provide non-alcoholic beverages Make sure you have drinks such as coffee, soft drinks and punch available for those who don’t drink alcohol.

Two time NZ entertainment company of the year, enthuse, has an award winning track record of adding an enthusiastic creative spark to conferences and events all over NZ. Enthuse provides leading entertainment, themed band, theming, team building and MC services and can help develop and manage your event if required www.enthuse.co.nz

9. Presents Either set a dollar value and have each staff member buy a secret Santa gift, or if the business can, purchase gifts for everyone.

Make sure you have a few extra just in case someone is missed.

10. Take photos and celebrate Make sure you take lots of good photos – maybe even show some during the evening – to use ‘if appropriate’ for staff newsletters and sharing afterwards. It’s important to celebrate the year, maybe even handing out some ‘fun’ awards for particular ‘things’ done throughout the year.

FAIRWAY LODGE FUNCTION & CONFERENCE CENTRE

Also consider: • Get feedback afterwards – to make next year’s even better again • Don’t skip staff Christmas functions, it’s a bad look • It always comes up and you should really take notice; keep a lid on alcohol intake, especially if you are keen on a career in your business • Mingle, take the opportunity to mix with staff you don’t have much to do with.

Book your party at one of our event rooms before the end of October and we will welcome your guests with a traditional Italian aperitif on house.

Overlooking the Takapuna Golf Course with its stately trees and picturesque water features, it must be one of the Shore’s best kept secrets.

“A Presto”

Weddings | Cocktail Parties | Functions Conferences

09 302 2665

Ph: 09 443 1770 | Fax: 09 443 1770 E: fairwaylodge@clear.net.nz

www.totorestaurant.co.nz

17A Silverfield, Takapuna, Auckland

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Goods & Services | Econergy The Econergy water heater is an efficient heat pump that heats your water cylinder instead of heating your home.

The cheap way to heat home water Imagine a water heater that uses a quarter of the energy of a standard one, heats twice as fast and connects to your existing cylinder. It might sound like a big stretch, but it’s not. Econergy Limited in Onehunga manufactures a range of heat pump water heaters that do exactly that.

How does an Econergy® water heater work?

bottom end of the income range it gobbles up 15 percent of the total household income.

Designed and developed in New Zealand for New Zealand conditions, the Econergy water heater is an efficient heat pump that heats your water cylinder instead of heating your home.

Many households have taken the wise step of insulating floors and ceilings recently, which according to Otago University saves 19 percent on the household power bill on average.

Like a normal heat pump, it is moving the energy to heat the water, not creating the heat with an electric element.

The water is removed from the bottom of the hot water cylinder by a circulating pump in the unit, and circulated through a condenser heat exchanger where it’s raised to 60degC. The heated water is dropped into the top of the hot water cylinder where it can be drawn off straight away for use in the house.

That sounds very cool, but why should I install one?

Electricity has risen to seven percent above the rate of inflation in the last decade. While that’s helped the power companies’ bottom line it hasn’t helped families – in fact at the

Since hot water makes up about 40 percent of a family’s power bill, installing an Econergy can save a whopping 28 percent on the power bill.

Will I need a new hot water cylinder – or can I use my existing?

The Econergy will connect to any standard electric hot water cylinder, saving you money compared with installing a heat pump hot water cylinder. If your cylinder is old or it’s a new build, Econergy can provide a heat pump hot water cylinder that has extra fittings and is designed to give you the best possible performance from your Econergy heat pump water heater. Econergy cylinders are manufactured in New Zealand from corrosionresistant Duplex stainless steel.

Econergy savings Heating the Econergy way is proven to save 66-75 percent per year off the usual running costs of heating an electric hot water cylinder, making it the cheapest primary heating source available on the energy market today.

And yes, it is considerably cheaper than heating your water using natural gas, and much more consistent than solar water heating.

The Econergy® HP4000LT has been rated

by Consumer as the most efficient heat pump water heater in their test. Check out the free online test by visiting www. consumer.org.nz/reports/heat-pumpwater-heaters The team at Econergy is often asked what the catch is with Econergy water heating. But the good news is that there isn’t one. The small amount of noise emitted from the heat pump won’t be an issue if the unit is located correctly.

Econergy saves money • Heating with Econergy can save up to 75 percent on your water heating bill • The Econergy water heater is an efficient heat pump that heats your water cylinder instead of heating your home • The Econergy water heater was designed and developed in New Zealand for New Zealand conditions • The Econergy will connect to any standard electric hot water cylinder, saving you money compared with installing a heat pump hot water cylinder • The Econergy® HP4000LT has been rated by Consumer as the most efficient heat pump water heater in their test.

All systems are installed with a comprehensive three-year onsite parts and labour warranty, which is backed up from Econergy’s Auckland manufacturing facility. All spares are on the shelf.

An Econergy water heater can save up

Manufacturers of Stainless Steel Mains Pressure, Copper, Low and Medium Pressure, Solar, Wetback, Boiler and Heat Pump Hot Water Cylinders.

New Zealand Made

to 75 percent on your water

Proudly supporting ECONERGY Heat Pump Water Heaters

heating bill.

P. 03 389 9500 | E. info@superheat.co.nz | www.superheat.co.nz

The future of water heating has arrived The exciting Econergy HP4000LT water heater uses the latest in heat pump technology to provide the most cost-efficient primary water heating source. Using warmth in the air as the primary heat source makes the Econergy more economical to run than conventional electric or gas water heaters. Providing fast top-down heating, the Econergy is poised to become the preferred mainstream water heating technology.

• 66-75% annual savings on electric power bills • Fast-Top down heating • Adds to the re-sale value of the home • Guaranteed performance Call Free 0800 326 637 | www.econergy.co.nz

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Goods & Services | Econergy Martin Holly and his family are extremely happy Econergy customers.

“

Testimonial

We have loads more hot water than when we were on an element. We have three showers in a row and we never run out of hot water. In fact we have to be careful because it is ripping hot. This is all nice because it also knocks a big chunk out of our usual powerbill!

Eric Pettyjohn West Harbour

Martin had an old 180L low-pressure copper hot-water cylinder that was still working fine, but it had to be biffed for the simple reason it wouldn’t supply the new mains pressure shower heads.

Martin discovered Econergy at the Auckland Home Show where he signed up for an obligation-free appraisal. He selected an HP4000LT and Econergy EC280L stainless steel duplex heat pump-ready hot water cylinder.

The heat pump was installed in October last year. Martin had dutifully kept all his old power bills so it was easy to see how much the Econergy was saving over his old lowpressure system.

Calculations show that the savings for the 10 months to date are a whopping 3158 kWh, compared with a standard mains pressure hot-water cylinder. At 22 cents per kWh saved, Martin’s on track to save $840 for the year, or $70 per month. These savings will grow as power continues to get more expensive.

When we remodelled the house we ended up living in a room right next to where the heat pump is located, but it doesn’t bother us at all. We are rapt with the savings, which are exactly what the manufacturer claimed.

- Happy customer Martin Holly

Get your free Econergy appraisal Econergy offers Auckland-wide free appraisals to assess your current hot water system’s energy efficiency.

The company will provide a quotation for installing an Econergy heat pump water system.

Don’t tolerate another inflated power bill – call us now 0800 326 637 to take the first step to economical hot water.

”

Yes that is correct. In my last 5 accounts the usage appears to be only 60 percent of the comparative month last year. What more can I say other than thank you.

After a comparison with Solar Panels, it appears to be by far the least expensive option for installation as well. With Solar Panels one needs to install a device that waits for the sun to rise, otherwise if you are like my family and have morning showers, the electricity starts heating the water and the panels only operate when least needed.

My wife and I are very satisfied with the end result and would have no hesitation in recommending the Econergy Heat Pump to anyone.

Prior to installing the Econergy they would occasionally run out of hot water when it was being used all at once. “Now we don’t run out,” he says.

Sincerely, B Gidley, Papatoetoe

Heat pumps have had some bad press regarding noise levels; however the close location to their bedroom has not been a problem. “When we remodelled the house we ended up living in a room right next to where the heat pump is located, but it doesn’t bother us at all. We are rapt with the savings, which are exactly what the manufacturer claimed.”

However the most important thing is that “Michelle loves it”.

“

”

It is with a great deal of pleasure that I write this recommendation for the Econergy Heat Pump water heating system. Looking at my bills from Mercury energy which shows my electricity usage on the reverse indicates to me that since installation it has been cut by 40 percent.

The outside unit of the Econergy water heater.

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Martin is effusive in his comments toward the Econergy heat pump system. He says the hot water delivery is “fantastic”, with the hot-water pressure “higher than the cold water pressure”.

“

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Greenhithe resident Martin Holly has been slowly upgrading the family home since moving in several years ago. Part of the renovations involved adding a second bathroom and doing up the existing bathroom with all new mains pressure fittings.

Econergy HP Series.

Testimonial

Econergy PO Box 12-645 Penrose Auckland 1642 T 0800 ECONERGY (326 637) www.econergy.co.nz

”

The future of water heating has arrived The exciting Econergy HP4000LT water heater uses the latest in heat pump technology to provide the most cost-efficient primary water heating source. Using warmth in the air as the primary heat source makes the Econergy more economical to run than conventional electric or gas water heaters. Providing fast top-down heating, the Econergy is poised to become the preferred mainstream water heating technology.

• 66-75% annual savings on electric power bills • Fast-Top down heating • Adds to the re-sale value of the home • Guaranteed performance Call Free 0800 326 637 | www.econergy.co.nz

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Goods & Services | Highway Electrical

Complete electrical capabilities Highway Electrical Limited has the skills and experience to undertake any large turnkey industrial design-build electrical project. The company was founded in 1972 and is today owned

by Kevin Ball and Robert Vukich, who employ a team of 10.

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The East Tamaki-based company formed a separate company, Highway Electrical Contracting Limited, to undertake turnkey design and installation projects. Ball and Vukich have a third partner in the business, Kevin McGarvey, who project manages most of Highway Electrical Contracting’s work.

Highway Electrical employs skilled and experienced specialist staff.

“We formed this company six years ago to make it easier to manage the bigger jobs,” company director Kevin Ball says. “We didn’t really have the capacity to do those bigger jobs before. We use the same staff in both companies and take on extra people when necessary.”

Design-build projects Highway Electrical Contracting has completed many significant design-build projects since its formation, including three large concrete plants for Allied Concrete in Auckland, Silverdale and Christchurch. These jobs involved the electrical design, build and installation.

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Highway Electrical can complete large turnkey industrial design-build electrical projects.

The company also designed, built and installed the electrical control system for the Winyard Quarter bridge, a high-profile infrastructure job completed for the Rugby

World Cup. Highway Electrical Contracting was subcontracted to Fletchers Construction for that job.

Kevin McGarvey says most turnkey projects have been green field jobs involving highly specialised work. “We’ve also done work for Pacific Coil Coaters, which is a paint plant that’s been upgraded over three years,” he says. “We’re having to work around the customer’s production. It’s a design-and-build job that shows we’re able to do that sort of work while still maintaining production.”

Other major turnkey projects include the electrical system for a new D&H Steel Construction plant and a new timber treatment plant in Australia, which is due to begin within the next few weeks and is the company’s first major project offshore.

“

Testimonial

Highway Electrical is Vulcan Steel’s total electrical service provider and has been for the past 16 years, with work ranging from light fittings to heavy processing machinery with intricate PLC systems. I have known and dealt with Highway Electrical for over 25 years. During this time they have done a few major projects for me on both sides of the Tasman, from decommissioning to new installations of heavy plant equipment. Some of the things that really worked for us were their professionalism, quality of work, on-time completion, their open book policy and cost comparative, which is all one can ask for from a quality service provider.

Salend Nath, Vulcan Steel

”

Attwood Electronics Ltd Industrial Electronic Design & Service

www.attwoodelectronics.co.nz

ATTWOOD ELECTRONICS works closely with Industrial Electricians and Engineers across Auckland to provide full service on all industrial electronic equipment.

• Specialists in AC/DC Motor Drives and Stepper Drive Controllers

With 30+ years of experience in the industrial arena, ATTWOOD ELECTRONICS is in a position to assist you with your industrial electronic equipment.

• Circuit Board repairs

• Programmable Automatic Machinery e.g. CNC Machinery • Assistance in troubleshooting machine problems

51E Allens Rd, East Tamaki, Manukau 2013, Auckland | Ph/Fax: 09 271 0280 | E: attwood-electronics@xtra.co.nz

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Goods & Services | Highway Electrical

• Highway Electrical is an electrical contracting company involved in three main areas: • Electrical installation in small-tomedium sized commercial buildings • General jobbing and maintenance work in the manufacturing sector including planned maintenance • Turn key solutions for process applications in the manufacturing and processing areas.

Services available from Highway Electrical • Lead and tool checks on a regular basis as required by government regulations • Planned maintenance for plants, including Christmas and shutdown maintenance for terminal checks, heat checks, visual checks, filter changes, DC motors and drives • Free quotes for installation and maintenance work

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Highway Electrical designed, built and installed the electrical control system for the Winyard Quarter bridge.

Broad range of electrical experience

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It’s a whole different skill base with a mechanical understanding. We have that level of experience. There are five of us on staff who have the ability to troubleshoot and work our way through problems.

- Director, Kevin Ball

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Highway Electrical Limited offers a depth of experience in industrial and commercial electrical work that is hard to beat. The company is a specialist in electrical installations, general jobbing and maintenance work in the manufacturing sector, as well as in turnkey solutions for process applications.

Director Kevin Ball says Highway Electrical undertakes a wide variety of industrial work, as well as some small-to-medium commercial installations. “A lot of the industrial work we’ve done is for clients who we’ve had for a long time, and we’ve picked new clients up along the way as well,” he says.

“For those clients we do a lot of jobbing work, breakdowns, maintenance and looking after their buildings.” Ball says being an industrial electrician is quite different to being a commercial or residential electrician.

“That’s very important. When there’s a breakdown people lose a lot more money by having a machine down than the cost of the repair.”

Growing Highway Electrical Ball and his business partners are working hard to grow Highway Electrical and its subsidiary, Highway Electrical Contracting Limited.

“At the moment we’re in the process of talking about where we’re heading next. One of the things we want to look at is in energy savings and hazardous area work,” he says.

While the past few years have been patchy, due to the recession, Highway Electrical has continued to grow and increase its turnover, which is now almost $2 million.

• Callout service available by request and consultation • Writing and programming of PLC for turnkey solutions to manufacturing tasks • Installation of intelligent building controls • Commercial and industrial maintenance • Commercial and industrial installations • Small jobbing work • Turnkey solutions for manufacturing processes • PLC installations and programming • Industrial electronic repair and service work by arrangement.

“We’re looking for more growth but it’s got to be managed,” Ball says.

“It’s a whole different skill base with a mechanical understanding. We have that level of experience. There are five of us on staff who have the ability to troubleshoot and work our way through problems.”

Highway Electrical offers customers advise on power conservation and can provide a 24-hour, seven-day call-back service by arrangement. “We try and offer very good response times to breakdowns,” Ball says.

Hire Towers Limited are proud to support Highway Electrical

FREEPHONE: 0800 806 341

113 Captain Springs Rd, Onehunga Ph: 09 634 1481 Fax: 09 622 2150

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Goods & Services | Highway Electrical

LOOKING FOR STAFF?

Highway Electrical has done significant work for D&H Steel Construction.

Highway Electrical Limited has developed strong industry relationships that have proved beneficial to all parties involved.

An example of Highway Electrical working with its customers and ensuring problems are minimised is as follows: Electropar PLP, a leading provider of electrical engineering solutions for the Australasian electrical transmission and distribution, defence and industrial sectors, is a customer of Highway Electrical.

“As their building was rebuilt we got their machinery out and repaired it and worked with them. It was a very successful partnership.”

Stuart Smith, manufacturing manager Pacific Coil Coaters

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Kevin Ball says soon after moving into a new factory in East Tamaki, Electropar suffered a major fire during the night that gutted the building. “We worked with them over the weekend and by Monday we had their office up and running so they could still take calls and work with customers,” he says.

Pacific Coil Coaters in Penrose (a subsidiary of the Fletcher Building Group) have used Highway Electrical for a number of years as its sole electrical supplier for responding to equipment breakdowns and to maintain the overall electrical equipment on site.

We have always found their service to be of the highest standard. We have a very good relationship with their management and staff and we have a high degree of confidence in their ability to continue to meet our ongoing needs.

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Highway Electrical Limited PO Box 230274 Botany Auckland T (09) 273 9505 F (09) 273 4466 E k.ball@highwayelectrical.co.nz www.highwayelectrical.co.nz

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It enjoys a close partnership with the Electrical Training Company, which is New Zealand’s main provider of electrical apprenticeships and training. Highway Electrical continually employs apprentices and currently has two on its books.

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Hospitality | Pukeko’s Food Store

Market fare daily Enjoying the captivating smells and tastes of markets around the world has spurred one Aucklander to set up her own local market store in Mairangi Bay. Pukeko’s Food store owner Michele Mabon loved discovering new flavours of different nationalities when she lived in Europe for seven years. She’d spend hours walking around stalls meeting the people who made the produce and enjoying the love and attention they had put in to whatever they made.

When she returned home to New Zealand she quickly reignited her love of market exploring, regularly making the one hour trip to the Matakana Market to seek out exciting and flavoursome New Zealand products to taste.

She was keen to sell his wares in her flagship store and approached him to see if he would be interested. “I found out that he bakes all After a while she realised it would be fantastic the bread out of a bakery in Constellation Drive – just minutes away.” to have a store where you could buy the exquisite flavours of authentic New Zealand Jason the Pukeko baker supplies Pukeko’s with market fare every day of the week – and a selection of enticing and delectable treats so it was the idea for Pukeko’s Food Store that are delivered daily at 7am, including was conceived. his specialty kumara bread, blueberry, apricot and apple crumble Danishes, savoury and chocolate croissants, his scrumptious Fresh baked goods chocolate brownie as well as the infamous One range of products which she had enjoyed schiacciata bread. many times at the Matakana Market was Schiacciata bread is foccacia-stlye flat bread Jason the Pukeko Baker’s baked goods – a that comes with a variety of toppings. selection of delicious, freshly baked, mouthJason’s specialities, sold at Pukeko’s Food watering items.

Store, are mushroom and mozzarella, olive and rosemary, and sausage and mozzarella – amongst others. “They’re are absolutely beautiful and like a meal,” Michele says.

“They are very popular.”

Deli delights As well as the baked goods, Michele also has every item imaginable to ensure your pantry and fridge are stocked with the most delectable items.

Stewart Island salmon, J. Friend & Co. artisan honey, a range of beautiful and carefully crafted New Zealand hummus and cheeses, and a selection of organic and preserve free meats. The popular Top Shelf aioli can be slathered on your poached asparagus, or simply used as a dipping sauce for some crunchy French fries.

FRESH HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS Matiatia Grove Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Lemon Olive Oil Michele also stocks goods from the range of Matiatia Grove olive oil. The oil is a blend of Koroneiki and Frantoio olives along with a very small percentage of Moraiolo and Pendolino varieties.

Each year since 2002, the oil has been awarded a gold medal in the New Zealand National Extra Virgin Olive Oil Awards, as well as frequent best in class and best in show.

It is delicious, fruity, all-purpose oil, perfect for drizzling over meats, chicken and fish, for salads and pasta. Try it too as a dipping oil.

Omaha Organic Berries, a certified organic blueberry orchard in Omaha, also supplies its wares to Michele’s store. It produces the decadent OOB ice creams including traditional berry ice creams, along with other tempting flavours including liquorice.

Michele is mindful of the selection of goods she chooses to carry in the store. Where possible she selects organic and sustainable products from producers who think of the bigger picture when producing their goods.

“These are often the products which give the best and most flavour – so it’s even better that they have been grown or produced in a considered way.”

Consistently New Zealand’s best extra virgin olive oil

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Pukeko’s Food Store

Pukeko’s Food Store opening hours Monday to Friday 7.30pm to 4.30pm Saturday and Sunday 7.30pm to 3.30pm Pukeko’s Food Store 376 Beach Road Mairangi Bay Auckland T 09 478 6984 E manager@pukekosfoodstore.co.nz www.facebook.com/PukekosFoodStore

09 377 2239

Email. info@matiatiagrove.co.nz

www.matiatiagrove.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

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Hospitality | Taste of India

India on a plate Simply delicious are the words that should come into your mind when you think about food from the Indian Pepper restaurant in Panmure.

Whether it is the famous butter chicken or the chef’s special chicken pepper, all the dishes are made with fresh ingredients sourced on the day. Lamb, chicken, beef or vegetables; all are prepared on a daily basis and cooked after receiving the orders from the customers – ensuring a plateful of fresh Indian goodness on a plate.

Head chef Sanjeev ensures all meals are prepared to the highest standard. “No dish should come back to the kitchen half eaten unless of course the customers are full - and even then they can take it home with them and have it the next day.” Sanjeev says.

“HK” is the sous chef, who ensures all the dishes are cooked and prepared according to the strict instructions of the head chef and says there are no shortcuts in cooking. “You have to do the whole nine yards. Only after doing those whole nine yards are you able to achieve the ultimate taste.”

Curry in a hurry It is important to the team at Indian Pepper that customers are not only served with delicious food, but also with customer service that is just as good as the food. Whether it is a romantic dinner for two or a luncheon for 10, Parneet the maître d’ensures that each customer is received and served with the best professional service.

It is a love affair for the team at Indian Pepper. It begins with sourcing fresh ingredients locally and spices from India that reflect the true taste of Indian food. The chefs cook recipes that are close to their hearts and the staff provide the best possible service to their customers.

And to keep the love alive, the whole process begins again the next day.

Indian Pepper 48 Queens Road Panmure T 0508 473 7737 www.indianpepper.co.nz

A peek at the menu From the tandoor Chicken tikka $10.00

Curries

Specially marinated boneless chicken cooked in a traditional oven

Butter chicken $12.00

Lamb seekh kabab $10.00 Specially marinated lamb mince with fresh ingredients cooked in a traditional oven.

From the wok Chicken chilli $15.00 Blend of Indian & Chinese ingredients cooked with fried chicken in a special recipe and served with naan bread plus poppadum Chicken pepper $15.00

— Advertising Feature

Do not forget about the lunch special which includes any curry from the main menu, rice, naan bread and poppadom along with a non-alcoholic drink for $10 (per person, conditions apply). The restaurant is BYO and fully licensed.

Chicken schnitzel fried with our special batter and served with garlic and aioli sauce along with fries plus salad

Famous Indian chicken dish cooked in our own in-house special recipe, served with rice.

Chicken tikka masala $15.00 Chicken tikka from our tandoor cooked in special recipe, served with rice.

Kadai chicken $15.00 Famous North Indian chicken dish with a blend of our own recipe and served with rice.

Lamb madras $15.00 Lamb cooked in enriched coconut cream and our special recipe, served with rice.

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Hospitality | Taste of India

A taste of Delhi Right in the heart of the Onehunga Township sits a traditional Indian restaurant, well-known for being the place to go if you want a taste of authentic north Indian cuisine.

The Curry Leaf Indian Restaurant has become a popular evening destination for locals, thanks to its range of simply scrumptious dishes and friendly casual ambiance, that makes guests fell right at home.

It is a traditional restaurant that serves a great variety of all the traditional curries as well as delicious tandoori cuisine and authentic vegetarian choices. Its owner Sarabjeet Singh says the range of cuisine is reflective of the typical north Indian Punjabi food “exactly as you would find it on the streets of Delhi”.

Home away from home Sarabjeet has always had a love of cooking and food, thanks to his father who is a very good cook. “I loved the food he cooked.

Coming to New Zealand we missed that sort of real Indian food that we could find in Delhi.

“Here we found the food was often too creamy; we wanted to create a restaurant in the real Delhi style, with authentic food that is not so creamy and sweet.”

And so when the opportunity came up Sarabjeet took over Curry Leaf and turned it into a family-run business that provides authentic cuisine for both Indians and Kiwis alike.

For all tastes In the kitchen are trained and experienced chefs, Kishan and Aman Singh, who use their culinary skills to ensure each and every mouthful of food is a culinary delight for guests – whatever their taste.

Curry spelled out Defining exactly what a curry is can be difficult, but the team from Curry Leaf tells us just makes this dish what it is.

“If you look at all the different products on supermarket shelves all over the world with ‘curry’ in their name you’d probably be forgiven for thinking curry was just something that contained spices. Indeed many people would define curry as a ‘spicy dish from India’.

“Yet the word curry is not used as such in any of the scores of languages from the Indian sub continent. The term curry itself isn’t really used in India, except as a term appropriated by the British to generically categorise a large set of different soup or stew preparations that are common in India.

These preparations which all contained ginger, garlic, onion, turmeric, chilli and oil, and all appeared yellow or red, oily, spicy They understand that not all guests will like dishes the “ethnic” way so certain dishes, like the butter chicken, are also offered the “kiwi” way. The ethnic way is made with the less creamy tomato base, fresh aroma and nice mix of spices; in contrary to the creamier version that many in New Zealand associate with the popular Indian dish.

“We are very popular with the locals,” Sarabjeet says, attributing the popularity to the great food, the modern contemporary ambiance of the restaurant and the smart yet casual dress code, which has been designed to make the locals feel right at home.

and aromatic must have seemed all the same to the British.

“Curry Leaf’s definition of a restaurant curry is - a dish made with dried and fresh spices cooked in oil with sauce made from pureed onion, garlic and ginger. The variety of spices used can be extensive but the commonest are chilli, cumin, coriander and turmeric.

“In keeping with the tradition of curries as illustrated above, we serve a great variety of Punjabi food, delicious Tandoor cuisine, authentic vegetarian choices coupled with some Indian-Chinese fusion.

“Mild, medium or hot, you order it; Curry Leaf prepares it, in an unpretentious, casual ambience, with friendly staff, prompt service, and lip smacking Delhi style curries at a truly affordable price. And to go with your meal you can also enjoy Indian beer on tap.

“Enjoy – Curry is the spice of life.”

“We provide friendly and prompt service and a casual ambience. We trust that you will enjoy a truly unique and memorable dining experience whilst indulging yourself in the real taste of fine Indian cuisine.”

Curry Leaf Onehunga 237, Onehunga Mall Road Onehunga Auckland 1006 T (09) 636 9666 or (09) 636 9669 www.curryleaf.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Serving a great variety of all the traditional curries as well as delicious tandoori cuisine and authentic vegetarian choices.

We provide friendly and prompt service and a casual ambience. We trust that you will enjoy a truly unique and memorable dining experience whilst indulging yourself in the real taste on fine Indian cuisine.

Curry Leaf Onehunga, 237, Onehunga Mall Road, Auckland 1006. Phone: 09 636 9666 www.aucklandtoday.net.nz September/October 2012 57

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Hospitality | Taste of India

A gateway to authentic Indian cuisine INDIA GATE – located in Auckland’s suburb of Epsom, is a gateway into the world of Indian tradition, culture, art and food.

Though it is yet to reach its second birthday, India Gate Restaurant has established itself in the neighbourhood as the place to go, to get as close to India as you can get without actually hopping on a plane.

The restaurant is all about fine-dining meeting authentic, ethnic chic, with its wellpresented dining area. It promises to provide India on a plate, just like you’d find it on the Indian sub-continent.

Shivani Arora, executive chef and “spirit and soul of India Gate”, felt most Indian restaurants in New Zealand had tamed Indian cuisine and were not serving real Indian food as eaten in India. This inspired her to start her own restaurant, that serves

authentic cuisine with the “real Indian taste and hospitality”.

Shivani, who is well-known in the Auckland Indian community for her ability to cook for 2,000 to 3,000 people at charity fundraising events, started cooking at the age of 12, in her home town of Chandigarh, India.

Cooking is her passion now, and that is one of the reasons India Gate has become so popular in such a short period among Indian people all over Auckland, as well as among Kiwis and other communities in the neighbourhood.

She buys her own spices, mixes them to the right proportions, roasts and grinds them to create that mouth watering, unforgettable taste and flavour that is so important for authentic Indian cuisine. “At India Gate we control the mild, medium and hot flavours of curries by the mix of spices, not by adding lots of cream or sugar.”

Quality at India Gate starts with using the best fresh meats and vegetables cooked in small lots - only as much as is required.

Her love and passion for cooking is reflected in the sublime flavours found in each and every dish sent out to customers – it promises to truly be a feast fit for kings and queens.

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Party hall at India Gate.

A peek at the menu Starters Golden prawns: Jumbo prawns seasoned with garlic and golden fried Fish amritsari: Battered fish fillets marinated with herbs and spices India Gate tikka platter: Combination of Chicken Tikka, Murga Malai Tikka, Kali Mirch Chicken Tikka, Haryali Chicken Tikka and Fish Tikka

Indo Chinese mains Chilly chicken: Battered fried boneless chicken cubes tossed in wok with diced onions, capsicum and spring onions Chicken Manchurian: Chicken mince dumplings tossed in wok with diced onion, capsicum and soy sauce Manchurian style.

India Gate is proud to support Real Taste of India

Indian mains

Delight your taste buds with delicious Indian cuisine!

Call us today!

Chicken Karahi: Boneless pieces of tender chicken partially cooked in tandoor and finished in thick onion gravy with abundance of fresh coriander and capsicum

09 631 0047

380 Manukau Road, Epsom

Butter Chicken: Tender morsels of boneless chicken marinated overnight partially cooked in tandoor and finished in mild creamy tomato based gravy with a tint of dry fenugreek leaves

Punjabi Chicken Curry: Fresh chicken pieces with or without bone cooked in onions, tomatoes ginger and fresh coriander - Punjabi style.

Serving you • Fine Indian dining in our elegant restaurant - A La Carte Menu • Weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, mid-winter Christmas parties in our tastefully decorated party hall • Office meetings, seminars and presentations and private dining in VIP room • Tourist groups from overseas • Free Indian food delivery in Auckland within 3km for orders above $30. Free delivery to other areas for large orders also available • Takeaway menu • Outdoor catering • Maharajah Buffet Lunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 2.30pm.

India Gate Level 1, 380 Manukau Rd Epsom Auckland, 1023 T (09) 631 0047 indiagateepsom@gmail.com www.indiagaterestaurant.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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