Canterbury Today Issue 103

Issue 103 | August/September 2010

www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Thou shalt not…

Business commandments you dare not break

Jumping the green belt Bridging the rural-urban divide

The running men

Ready, steady, robe… the race for the mayoralty

Fifteen percent

What more GST means for you

New

horizons

FTA or not, Jenny Shipley says we ignore the Chinese economic juggernaut at our peril

wastiicntravel

Fant

priznepa!ge 4

o News | Initiatives | Interviews | Personalities | Information | Success | Profiles | Finance | Property | Sustainability | Export | Transport | Retail | DSolutions | ISSN 0113-8340 etails

WE’RE ONLINE! View what’s happening in all our magazines online today!

Visit www.canterburytoday.co.nz to read the Editor’s selection of interviews, business tools, feature profiles, lifestyle and motoring reviews, plus heaps more.

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Don’t forget to enquire about your own FREE feature profile or contact us with your news, views and opinions.

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Issue 103 | August/September 2010

www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Thou shalt not…

Business commandments you dare not break

Jumping the green belt Bridging the rural-urban divide

The running men

Ready, steady, robe… the race for the mayoralty

Fifteen percent

What more GST means for you

New

horizons

FTA or not, Jenny Shipley says we ignore the Chinese economic juggernaut at our peril

wintravel

Fantastic

prize!

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News | Initiatives | Interviews | Personalities | Information | Success | Profiles | Finance | Property | Sustainability | Export | Transport | Retail | Detail Solutions s on page | ISSN 0113-8340

Canterbury Today

Issue 103

16,980 ABC circulation as at 31/12/09

www.canterburytoday.co.nz Head office Academy House 818 Colombo Street PO Box 1879 Christchurch

Staying competitive in business calls for a special game plan to get the best from all team players

General manager Rebecca Harris

admin manager

sales & advertising Robert Cochrane sales executives Jane Watson Grant Williams Mike Burke Miranda Hearn Nicole Saunders Colin Morais Doug Walker Janet Campbell newsroom Jonathon Taylor Marie Sherry Melinda Collins Kate Pierson Bridget Gourlay

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Arrested development

managing director Gary Collins

administration Kylie Moore Shontelle Alexander Kelly Clarke Kimberley Wells Hellie Hadfield

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editor

Phone: 03 961 5050 Fax: 0800 555 054 Email: editor@academy.net.nz

production Fleur Hall manager Carolynne Brown assistants Hannah Walters Samara Thomson Camilla Josephs Melanie Stanbury designers CJ McKay Hayley Brocket Ryan Carter Ian Knott Kirsty Opie Phone: 03 961 5050 Fax: 0800 555 054 Email: production@academy.net.nz

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Fifteen percent

Cover story

Thou shalt not…

There’s no point running from the impending GST rise; all you can do is approach the transition well prepared

Jenny Shipley, New Zealand’s first woman Prime Minister, says business needs to capitalise on the Chinese FTA, as there’s no ignoring the Chinese economic juggernaut

Behold, hellfire and damnation awaits those who break these business commandments.

Thou hast been warned!

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Motoring

Jumping the green belt

Nissan’s new Navara ST-X talks the torque while the Kia Cerato Koup reminds you to never underestimate the power of the unexpected

Bridging the rural-urban divide is an economic imperative

News

Thou Shalt Not…

Business features

6 Been seen see who’s been out and about

The 10 Commandments of building business success

30 Transport & Motoring Cockram Motors

8 Passing the buck GST, ETS, the Fair Trading Act, price hikes and you 10 The running men the incumbent and the contenders lining up for the Christchurch mayoralty stakes 12 The secret seven what to look for when buying a business 18 Making our cup runneth over local RWC manager focuses on off-field success 20 Products 4U perfect for packing it in

26 People management sometimes parting the Red Sea seems easier than creating an environment where staff work hard, well and happily 27 Finance bow down before the balance sheet you heathens, lest you anger the finance gods, whose wrath spells certain doom 28 Communication not quite cast in stone, these are the rules for mastering the art of concise communication

21 Lifestyles Polaroid goes back to the future, a fine Rotorua retreat, another top drop, funky furniture and bamboo techware

Viewpoints

22 Events diary find out what’s on near you

14 Service and sales have we forgotten what good service is already?

39 Agribusiness news bridging the rural-urban economic link

22 Management become the local expert for your industry

Winning ways…

Knowledge for growing business since 1985

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 2010 by A-Mark Publishing (NZ) Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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 Win a Gold Coast family holiday for four, plus spending money, as part of Cartridge World’s 10-year celebrations. See PAGE 13 for further details

44 Focus Earth and Sky, Nelson Tasman region, NMIT, Nelson Airport redevelopment and Langs Natural Stone 60 Master Joiner Awards Modernage Kitchens & Joinery, Busch Joinery 62 NZIA Awards Dalman Architecture, Joseph & Associates and Wilkie + Bruce 70 Export Canterbury Export Awards 71 Business development Donnithorne Simms, Drexels Breakfast Restaurant and the Cashmere Club

win

* CONDITIONS OF ENTRY: One entry only per person and must be sent on the official entry form or as otherwise stated. Entry is free and open to all residents of New Zealand. All entrants must be over the age of 18, proof of identity and date of birth may be requested. Employees and their immediate families of Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication are ineligible to enter. Winner(s) will be notified by e-mail/phone.

The judges’ decision is final, no correspondence will be entered into. No responsibility is accepted for late, lost or misdirected mail. Prizes are not transferable or redeemable for cash. Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever suffered (including but not limited to direct or consequential loss) or personal injury suffered or sustained, during the course of prize winning travel or in connection with any other prizes won. Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication accept no responsibility for health, luggage, insurances, travel, personal expenses and transfers other than specified. Entries remain the property of Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication and cannot be returned. Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication reserves the right to photograph and publish winners. Entries may be used for further marketing purposes by Academy Publishing, the promoter and agencies associated with any promotion in this publication but are not made available to any third party.

4 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

39 Agribusiness McCain Foods

76 Initiatives McNeill Pumping and Cooper Webley 80 Property & Construction Steel Grating, Upright Scaffolding and Independent Doors

And the winner is…

Canterbury Today congratulates Julia Osselton on winning a marketing and communications manual from Living Words.

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Gain new business through ‘Word of Mouse’ referrals

By Sharon Waters Word of mouth referrals have long been recognised as the most powerful and credible way a business can market its goods and services. So it is not surprising to find that the most common form of marketing used by the majority of New Zealand business owners is via ‘word of mouth’ referrals. But what does ‘word of mouth’ mean in today’s electronic society?

By definition, ‘word of mouth’ means exactly that – customers speaking to one another about a business or a service they would highly recommend. However, with the growing dominance of the Internet and the easier accessibility to new technologies, the traditional ‘word of mouth’ referral is progressively morphing into what’s now being coined as a ‘word of mouse’ phenomenon.

Today, technology is evolving rapidly and so is the way in which we use technology for business marketing. Viral marketing has gone into overdrive, fuelled mostly by advances in mobile technology that means anyone, anywhere, anytime can recommend or refer a business via the Internet. Nowadays, we simply “Like” or “Tweet” something we recommend and we can do this without limitation, giving us instant connectivity to hundreds and possibly thousands of people.

The emergence of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube have permanently changed the way we interact with each other. This does not mean you have to rush out and set up a Facebook or a Twitter account today, but with the recent introduction of Anti-Spam laws in New Zealand protecting against unwanted email marketing, business owners need to look for other creative ways to market their business via the Internet.

Consider this. When you receive a word of mouth referral, what do you do? It is now common practice for most people to jump online and find out more about the referred business. In doing so, they inevitably form a first impression or an opinion about that business, which is based purely on the look

and feel of the business’ website or worse the lack thereof. Potential customers will almost instantly decide whether or not they want to engage with the referred business (often regardless of who referred it to them!).

As Internet users become more and more adept at surfing the net, research is showing they are also becoming fussier about the websites they spend time on. Having an effective online presence for your business is now more important than ever as without it, the goodwill built through word of mouth referrals can quickly wash away by having a poor online image. Slow page loading times, old-fashioned fonts, hard to follow layouts, unappealing colours, spelling mistakes, or a blatant sales pitch are all factors which will influence a potential customer’s decision to engage with your business.

There is no denying that the Internet is changing how word of mouth referrals are being spread but the reason why people spread word of mouth referrals remains unchanged; people will continue to rave about something that they feel passionate about. The key question now is - how will your business capitalise on ‘word of mouse’ referrals?

Sharon Waters is the Sales & Marketing Manager for Christchurch-based IT specialists Indigo Technologies.

Having recently celebrated 10 years in business, Indigo is highly skilled in developing successful websites, mobile applications, social media campaigns and other online marketing strategies (including search engine optimisation). For a limited time, Indigo are offering FREE website appraisals to help identify areas for improvement – contact Sharon today on 0508 INDIGO to book your free website appraisal or visit www.indigotech.co.nz.

6 HELPFUL HINTS TO INCREASE YOUR ‘WORD OF MOUSE’ REFERRALS • Use e-mail to ask for referrals Communicating with your current customers through a regular e-mail newsletter is an effective way to remain ‘top of mind’ to your customers. Don’t be afraid to ask your customers if you could help their friends or associates in the same way as you have helped them.

• Create an e-mail footer promotion The space at the bottom of your e-mail is prime real estate for displaying and promoting a word-of-mouth campaign. Be creative and make it meaningful so that your customers are enticed to spread the word and forward it on.

• Use online customer surveys Customer feedback can often determine why some people may not be referring your business. Use an online survey to ask your customers to evaluate your service offering and provide valuable feedback on how you currently measure up.

• Make your blog or website a resource for your customers A content-rich blog packed full of free information or advice on commonly faced issues goes a long way towards building credibility and establishing yourself as an expert in your field.

Offering advice for free is certainly talked about!

• Build a customer community using Facebook or Twitter Add value to your customers by promoting an online customer community that your customers can join and instantly be connected to other local businesses as well. Use this medium to promote your specials or provide updates or advice about your industry, goods or services. It’s an easy way to generate interest in your business and an easy way for your customers to simply click and refer your business to their friends.

• Develop a website that people talk about Stand out from the crowd and find ways to make your website unique. People tend to buy based on experience, so make sure your website gives your visitors a memorable and positive experience that they’ll tell others about.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 5

View these photos and more online at www.canterburytoday.co.nz

beenseen

Images taken and supplied by Lynne Puddy-Greenwood, Events Editor. If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Lynne at lynne.p@academy.net.nz

The Export Awards Everyone enjoyed the amazing ambience at this year’s Export Awards at AMI Stadium. Expertise in energy efficient light bulbs, high performance camshafts and servicing of aero jet engines saw three companies scoop their categories in the 2010 Air New Zealand Cargo Canterbury Export Awards.

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1. Mike Townsend (Imerys), Rose Townsend, Pam Salthouse (guest), Peter Townsend, Heather Townsend (Chamber of Commerce) 2. Tony Nowell (Export NZ), Gareth Richards (Tait) 3. Rob Jeffrey and Craig Ellison (Export NZ) 4. Chris Paulsen (Cameron Air & Sea Freight), Andrew Thorne (NZ Customs Service) 5. Kevin Ban, Melody Leveridge, Tania Curtin (Kelford Cams Small to Medium Exporters of the Year), Leigh Paulden (Advancing Businesses), Robyn Galloway (Innovative Travel).

6. Rick Nelson and Greg Edmonds (Air New Zealand Cargo) 7. Nicky Wagner (National MP), Billy Wagner 8. Mike Yardley (Radio Network/ CTV), Nicole Saunders (Academy Publishing) 9. Ross Riordan, Mike Aller, Steve Robinson, Carol Allan, Caroline Brown, Sarah Forrester, Jayne O’Connor (Engine Med - Medium to Large Exporter of the Year) 10. Ian Thomas, Anne Jamieson (Chamber of Commerce) 11. Anthony Berry (ANZ), Ian Kennedy and Neville Bamford (Price Waterhouse), Paul Saunders (ANZ).

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Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce Trade Expo

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The Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce recently held a Trade Expo evening for members at the Grand Chancellor. Members had a chance to network, enjoyed the showcased products and services, gain insight into presenters’ business operations while making business contacts for themselves.

12 Sally McFarlane, Jo Columbus (Seal), Janice McNab, Jane Hutchings (Tradestaff) 13 Graeme Marriott (Marriotts Ltd), Mike Pero (Safe Kiwi NZ Ltd) 14 Nicholas Myers, Premilla Sharma (Grenadier Real Estate) 15 Pete Nolan (Vincent Nugent Nolan), David Hackstow (Marriotts Ltd) 16 Stephen Overton (Avon City Ford), Stephen Woodside (CECC) 17 Guy Leary (Pure Financial Services), Mike Burke (Canterbury Today Magazine).

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Vegetarian FOOD AND LIFESTYLE EXPO For vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike tStalls (vegetarian community, vegetarian businesses, items of interest to vegetarians, not for profit groups with vegetarian principles) tFood – hot, cold, meals and snacks, free tasters tCookery Demos - free tasters and recipe sheets tWorkshops – topics including health, animal rights, the environment tCafé – fair trade

6 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

tFilms – about or by vegetarians tKids activities – bouncy castle, face painting, craft, balloon animals tVege Sausage Sizzle – NZ’s biggest tVegan ice cream stand tMusic – DJ’s and a string quartet

View these photos and more online at www.canterburytoday.co.nz Her Business Network evening Her Business Network held a successful evening at the Grand Chancellor with entrepreneur and author Robyn Simpson.

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29 Robyn Simpson (author, speaker, entrepreneur), Karen Scott (Jabasco Café & Bar owner) 30 Melissa Habberfield (Her Business Network), Jaine Petrie and Karen Hansen (24/Seven Hair Salon), Jody Worsfield (Romantic Gestures) 31 Joan Berry (Vital Link), Brenda Ogilvie, Amanda Storrier (World Travellers Christchurch) 32 Katie Leroux (Admit Admin), Rachel Pero (Pacific Resort, Cook Island) 33 Kate Tarrant (Physio), Juliana Trolove (Vital Design) 34 Andrea Haberfield, Karlie Alexander, Caroline Johnson (Dress for Success) 35 Sonia McManus (Dreamwear Life Coaching), Sue Shuker (Gathering Colour) 36 Kathy Nicol (Cohens Lifestyle Clinic), Vicki O’Fee (V for Hair) 37 Linzi Ebbage-Thomas (HR Consulting) 38 Melinda Ernst (Chubby Chops), Julie McCloy (Christchurch Womens Refuge).

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The Totally Organised function Wendy Davie (author and speaker) of Totally Organised gave great advice at an evening at the popular Jabasco Bar & Café in Christchurch recently.

18 Anna Koster (Herbalife), Elizabeth Biddick 19 Lana Pope, Jules Croft (Harcourts Holmwood), Karen Scott (Jabasco) 20 Sue Swift (Enjo), Wendy Davie (Totally Organised) 21 Michelle Lagatule and Rose Spijkerman (Info Systems Social Media Training) 22 Simon Gillian (Deli Down Under), Hal October (October Protection).

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Aphrodite Boutique Accommodation and USparkle Therapy Centre grand opening

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Fun had by all at the Wine and Cheese opening of Aphrodite Boutique Accomodation and the USparkle Therapy Centre. Lyn Hogben (owner) was thrilled with the turnout. It was also a great chance to support Rosy Hogben, representing NZ in Australia in the long runs and relays, so we all wish her well.

23 Corina and Colin Tindall (Red Clothing Alteration) 24 Donna Jones (St. Andrews), Joy Cummings (Njoy Pickles and Chutneys) 25 Leta Martin (Elite IPL Therapist), Lorraine Thompson (The Key Beauty Therapy Clinic), Jude Smith (Therapist) 26 Anne Davis (Sirens Wines), Rosy Hogben, Louise Wedlare (Sirens Wines), Lyn Hogben (Aphrodite Boutique Accommodation and USparkle Therapy Centre) 27 Jude and Ross (Delmarine Ltd) 28 Colin Bartlett and Linda Bartlett (Harcourts Gold).

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Where? - Horticultural Centre, Riccarton Ave, Christchurch When? - Sunday September 26th 10-4.30pm All welcome. $2.50 entry. Children free Bus Numbers 84, 3, 5, 19 and 83 stop outside the Public Hospital which is across the road from the Horticultural Centre

Check out the event at www.vegetarianexpo.org.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 7

News

Passing the buck

By Kate Pierson

The phrase ‘price hike’ has a tendency to offend. So, it’s no surprise talk of the financial impact on New Zealand businesses due to the effective Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and impending GST hike has many hot under the collar.

And, as if almost reading the minds of concerned business owners, the Commerce Commission is already reminding commercial entities about their obligations under the Fair Trading Act not to mislead customers about any potential price increases and refrain from passing the buck in light of these legislative changes.

Wellington Commerce Commission enforcement manager Greg Allan explains, “Businesses are not required by law to give reasons when they raise prices.

“However, when a business does try to justify a price increase to its customers, the reasons they give must be accurate and not misleading. For example, businesses will run the risk of breaching the Fair Trading Act if they explain price increases as being caused by the increase in GST, where the price exceeds the extra GST.”

Understanding the ETS Effective as of July 1, 2010 the ETS is a key part of the Government’s response to global climate change and will ensure New Zealand meets its obligations under international agreements like the Kyoto Protocol.

Under the New Zealand ETS, some businesses will have a legal obligation to surrender emission units to cover direct greenhouse gas emissions they are responsible for, or any emissions associated with their products.

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On measuring the relationship between commercial price increases and the ETS, Allan says, “The impact of the ETS on each electricity or petrol company will vary and consumers are not best placed to understand the technicalities of this, so must rely on the information provided by these businesses.

“It is important that businesses are accurate and not misleading about the reason for the increase and do not overstate the cost of the ETS, or they might breach the Fair Trading Act.” Contact Energy has already spoken out in defence of its estimated 3.2 percent residential electricity price increase.

The company said its pricing structure was calculated in relation to the ETS and its average price increase would be aligned with the Government’s estimate of ETS adding five percent to the cost of electricity.

“We have been absolutely clear in our communications with customers about price increases. Part of that clarity has been to ensure that we differentiate between a price increase as a result of ETS, and other price moves we may be making as part of normal operations,” Contact Energy managing director David Baldwin says.

Implication rejection “It is important that people do not confuse general price moves as a result of normal retail operations, with the ETS price increase, even if in some instances both price movements may be occurring at the same time. We reject any implication that we are using the ETS as a cover for inflating prices. We are not.”

While the ETS does not directly involve a high proportion of New Zealand’s small to medium businesses, which means they are not required to report on their emissions or to trade

New Zealand Units (NZUs), emissions intensive and trade exposed smaller business will be faced with higher fuel and electrical prices and waste disposal costs.

However, businesses in this category may also be eligible to receive allocation of NZUs if they are carrying out activities that generate a significant amount of emissions and/or use large amounts of energy relative to revenue from output (this is equivalent to at least 800 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per $1 million revenue).

Businesses can refer to the consultation document on industrial allocation under the New Zealand ETS (www.climatechange.govt.nz) to determine if they are eligible.

Penalties under the fair trading act The courts can fine a company $200,000 and an individual up to $60,000 for breaches of the Fair Trading Act. For more information on the ETS scheme visit the Ministry for the Environment website www.mfe.govt.nz

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News

Arrested development

By Kate Pierson

In life we are taught that winning is not everything and that in the face of competition, mustering up a ‘do my best’ attitude and playing with this spirit, irrespective of the outcome, is what really counts.

Whether its emulous characteristics befriend your own aspirational nature, or have you seeking security in the sanctuary of the sideline, the concept of competition is ingrained in human existence.

Cemented in tradition, competitiveness has been crystallised in local, national and international events and practices. And while the nature of competition has meant that it has always been an attention seeker, it is a hot topic in New Zealand at present for all the wrong reasons as everyone is asking, ‘Have New Zealanders lost their edge?’

The IMD Swiss Business School’s annual World Competitiveness Yearbook certainly seems to think so. A leading trio of Singapore, Hong Kong and the United States have secured spots at one, two and three in this survey of businesspeople and policymakers in 58 developed or emerging economies.

As a widely watched indicator for the quality of a country’s governance and investment environment, the survey measured countries

against 327 different criteria. In New Zealand, the survey was conducted for IMD by the NZ Institute of Management.

 Economic growth

The overall survey results indicated that despite its cataclysmic losses throughout the past two years, the US has stayed on top due to the sheer size of its economy, strong business leadership and unrivalled supremacy in technological innovation. Given the Singaporean economy grew by more than 13 percent in the first quarter of 2010, it’s no real surprise it takes top spot.

 Trade and investment flows

It seems Taiwan at number eight and Malaysia at 10, are also benefiting from strong demand in Asia, in addition to the implementation of highly efficient policies. Switzerland, at four, has been characterised by strong economic fundamentals such as low deficit, debt, inflation and unemployment.

New Zealand on the other hand has dropped to 20th place as the Middle Eastern Emirate of Qatar has replaced us at number 15 and our Australasian counterpart has left us far behind after being introduced to spot number five. The big island from ‘Down Under’ was deemed the most competitive venue of commercial activity by the survey.

Despite these startling figures, recipients of the competitiveness survey have also been advised that results were impacted by unusual volatility caused by:

He also maintains that we we need to look to countries like Singapore who are extraordinarily pro-growth and that look and feel like us and we need to read into, and understand them so we can learn from them.

 Exchange rates  Financial assets  Employment figures.

BusinessNZ chief executive Phill O’Reilly agrees a part of New Zealand’s decline on the competition scale comes down to the volatility of the world economy. “These results also relate to high government debt and people out of work, which impacts productivity, weak capital markets and export performance,” he explains.

Rationalisations aside however, what do we do to regain our dwindling economic dynamism? “It comes down to the ease attached to starting a business, ease of developing that business and of course the government infrastructure spend,” O’Reilly says.

“Efficient government spending means not driving money into wasteful welfare schemes — not to say that all welfare scheme are wasteful, but New Zealand needs to be investing in productivity enhancing assets such as ports and motorways.

“That means it really comes down to how the government operates and the nexus and linkage between that and how our businesses operate.”

O’Reilly believes we have issues around our productivity capacity in New Zealand, as we have a low capital intensity compared to others.

“We face a dual problem where we are the most isolated developed economy in the world,” O’Reilly says. “In Switzerland, businesses can drive for an hour to export and Singapore and Hong Kong are so close to big export markets they are almost back to their growth trend again. In New Zealand, our businesses need to starting thinking international not domestic.”

O’Reilly’s advice for staying competitive in our business landscape:  Try to get as capital intensive as possible whilst ensuring this is consistent with the nature of your business, ie the acquisition of modern machinery  Upskill staff and management — ensure your business has better skills than your competitors  Think of exporting from day one — think of your business as an exporter and what it would take to be one.

For more information on the IMD and its annual surveys, visit www.imd.ch Key word search using ‘IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook’.

120 High Street, Southbridge, Canterbury, New Zealand Ph: 03 324 2571 www.drilling.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 9

News

the running men

By Bridget Gourlay

In October, the mayoral seat is up for grabs when the people of Christchurch decide who gets the job of running the city for the next three years. We take a little look at who’s offering what.

The incumbent — Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker, and the contenders for the city’s leadership — Jim Anderton, Nathan Ryan and Peter Wakeman

Bob Parker The current mayor is seeking a second term.

Parker swapped broadcasting for local body politics in the early 1990s when he became a member of the Banks Peninsula community board, then the district’s mayor (2001-2006).

After leading the amalgamation of the Banks Peninsula District Council and the Christchurch City Council he became a city councillor in 2006, then was elected Christchurch mayor in 2007.

Parker has brought the Ellerslie Flower Show to Christchurch with the council claiming it has injected $15 million into the local economy.

He also drove the adoption of an anti-cruising bylaw, cracking down on boy racers with fines of up to $1000 for excessive noise or travelling repeatedly in convoys over the same section of a multi-lane road.

The council has also moved to an environmentally sustainable building and rolled out a new rubbish collection system that makes recycling easier.

Jim Anderton What would you do to make Christchurch a better place to do business?

“As Mayor, I have kept rate increases low (less than 4 percent per annum) and kept a focus on core infrastructure — the roading, transport, water, wastewater, sea and airport structures the business community rely upon. They must be easily accessible, well-run and not add significant cost to business structures.

“Broadband connectivity is another council initiative — over 160km has been laid and this is growing daily. The council has almost finished a major overhaul of the processing of building and resource consents. Minor consents are at 100 percent within statutory timeframes, and more complex ones are at over 90 percent. Full transition to online and paperless consenting is almost complete. This will result in 100 percent statutory compliance for more complex consents.

Also, a stable workforce relies on a family friendly city. We have world leading library, education, recreational and social support structures.”

Jim Anderton is a leftie from way back. His first foray into politics was in 1965 when he won a seat on the Manukau City Council.

He went on to join the Labour Party and after a shift south in 1984 won the Sydenham seat (now Wigram), which he has held ever since. Anderton left Labour in the 80s because he refused to support Rogernomics and formed his own party which has evolved into the Progressives.

In 1999 he was Deputy Prime Minister in a coalition deal and he has also held ministerial posts such as Minister of Agriculture and Associate Minister of Health.

Anderton wants to achieve World Heritage Status for the Arts Centre, which he thinks has been neglected by the council with the failed proposal to build a music school next to the Dux de Lux and the removal of the stallholders from Market Square.

What would you do to make Christchurch a better place to do business?

“I have a blueprint to create a great future for Christchurch business. I want to revitalise the inner city and make a dynamic cultural heart in the CBD. I want to make affordable inner-city housing a reality.

“If elected, I will have sound financial control.

This means stopping unsustainable debt increases and keeping rates down. The protection of Christchurch’s high quality water supply for present and future generations is paramount.

“We need a high quality, convenient, accessible and affordable public transport system and well-paid jobs so that we keep our best and brightest young people in Canterbury.

“I will operate openly and transparently, not secretly behind closed doors. To make the council more open and democratic in the decision making process I will create a People’s Forum, inviting participation from the business and voluntary organisation sectors of the city.”

Nathan Ryan

Of the 62,524 peOple whO read Canterbury tOday...

Nathan Ryan comes from a background of retail, hospitality and sales. If elected mayor, Ryan would review all the plans for implementing bus lanes around the city, and possibly put on hold the existing projects.

He says less than five percent of Christchurch citizens regularly use buses, and he doesn’t think a better and more efficient system would change that. “People want to go where they want to go, when they want to go and to arrive on time. Buses don’t offer that. That’s why they’re so unattractive to people.”

More than 60% like to read about business and industry, and more than 60% have visited a website as a result of reading Canterbury Today.

Ryan says the council needs to focus on core services — roads, sewage and rubbish. “It’s ridiculous that you can’t drive though an intersection without hitting a pothole.”

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Water is also important to him. Ryan believes Canterbury has the best water quality in the country, and he says he won’t authorise anything that will change that.

Peter Wakeman Pete Wakeman is a former pilot who has worked in London and Singapore, but now lives in Merivale working for a medical equipment manufacturer.

An environmentalist, he wants bus exchanges built at city malls and outside areas to give people better shelter and encourage them to use public transport more often.

His greatest concern is water — he believes the city council needs to ensure the quality of water for drinking and farming by limiting subdivision and specifying land used for farming as they do in Europe.

Figures are based on the readership survey published in the magazine in May/June 2010

10 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

What would you do to make Christchurch a better place for business?

“I believe that we need to return to core council services and begin addressing the overspending on things that aren’t necessary for our city.

“We need a cohesive team working together rather than a group of individuals — a transparent council whose meetings are accessible to the public.

“Our inner city needs to be made more attractive to our citizens and tourists. I will encourage local businesses to extend business hours by introducing 24hr parking in the CBD, enforcing the littering fines and installing more CCTV cameras for safety.”

What would you do to make Christchurch a better place to do business?

“I will lobby the government to change the tax system because people in Canterbury are paying an extra five percent on power bills to keep warm. The government needs to make reserve bank credit available to fund infrastructure New Zealand wide, rather than burdening the tax payer and the ratepayer.

“City assets need to be used for the ratepayer though, I did ask the council annual plan process to reduce line charges by ten dollars per month.

With the GST increase and the ETS and the debt burdening the taxpayers are taking on, the amount of money going out of circulation has increased dramatically.”

Local Government elections are held every three years. People must be over 18 years old, a New Zealand citizen or a permanent resident and enrolled on the parliamentary electoral roll to stand for election and to vote. Voting in the Christchurch City Council election will be by post with the official election day on Saturday, October 9. Voting papers will be sent out from September 17 and should preferably be returned in the provided freepost envelope by Thursday October 7.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 11

News

The secret seven

By Kate Pierson

So you want to buy a business and, naturally, you want to get a bargain. You feel it’s time to become an exclusive member of the company owners club and exercise your organisational prowess.

When searching for your commercial soulmate, it’s about finding a business that reflects you, because buying a business in unfamiliar territory can cause professional disorientation.

It’s a bit like adopting responsibility in the form of a furry little friend; you need to treat your business like a living, breathing organism that requires your full attention and sustenance to survive. Nutrition in the form of a a healthy cashflow, loyal customers and productivity enhancing assets and structures.

For more information on buying a business bargain and business for sale opportunities visit www.nzbizbuysell.co.nz

And while experimenting with the idea of buying a business is one thing, actually doing it and successfully so, is quite the journey. It’s all about planning a professional process, nzbizbuysell director Richard O’Brien says. “Decide what you want, what your objectives are and know your strengths and weaknesses. Look around, do the homework and determine what’s needed to make this sector work, then take the plunge — there are many opportunities out there for buying well and gaining an excellent return on your investment, with a lifestyle to suit.”

Connecting business buyers and sellers through his interactive online organisation at www.nzbizbuysell.co.nz, O’Brien has offered his expertise on how to buy a business bargain.

“Owning a business can be very rewarding.

The quality of your choices and your pursuit of valid information will play a large part in determining your success — so here are seven keys for buying a business:

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12 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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The business is in an industry you have or can gain experience in.

This is about ensuring you buy a business you have a vision for and can add value to while living and supporting the lifestyle you want.

What can you bring to this business to make it great — improved systems, tapping into new markets, and injection of cash to improve outputs? Be clear on what will build this into a great business. Check with industry experts to make sure your thinking is right.

2

Whether there is a sound market now and tomorrow for the product or services this business provides, have an informed understanding of how competitive and sustainable this market is.

It’s important to do your homework here — a key aspect to any business is its future. The brighter the future the better, as this will help with growth, cashflow and the potential sale of your business. If it’s an overly competitive market how will you stand out and not get pulled into competing on price?

3

Know who the key customers are, what they represent sales wise, how they feel about this business and if they are friends or related to the current owner.

A healthy mix of customers is best. Find out whether there are contracts in place with key existing clients and how loyal customers are likely to be when the business changes hands.

4

Why the business is for sale, how profitable it is and has been over the last three years; what are the trends?

“Apart from the potential to amass wealth, you get to decide when and how long you work, who you work with and the manner in which you produce the product or service,” he says.

“But make sure it’s something that you really want to do, something you are passionate about, have a vision for and have the skills to add value to. In buying any business, always do your homework and consult with professionals.”

In buying an existing business you are getting:  An existing customer base — These are the people or businesses that already do business with you. This means cashflow from day one  Accepted products and/or services — They have already been developed and accepted into the marketplace  Existing employees — Experienced and skilled staff who understand the nature of the business and its target demographic  Operating Systems — These are key in any business. Knowing and understanding how the business operates, what keeps customers coming and the cash flowing is critical to productivity. The pre-existing business formula developed by the previous owners may be ideal or require a major overhaul  History — The previous owner has operated this business and will be able to show you its financial records, cash flow, sales and expenses. Being privy to this information from day dot lessens the risk to you and your bankers as the fundamental facts and figures illustrate the company’s performance and provide you with a platform to build on.

If profitability has taken a hit, it’s on a downward slope and the owner is desperate to sell, this could be your opportunity to negotiate a great deal. Have your accountant check out your logic and help recast the accounts to confirm the business still has potential.

5

Be sure leases, contracts, employment matters and/or intellectual property is legally sound — seek the assistance of a legal mind to assess this.

Also, find out what the relationships, terms and contractual arrangements are with suppliers.

Tighter sales timeframes usually open opportunities for better deals on leases, buying commercial property, equipment, and supplies — leaving you, the owner, with more and better choices. Evaluate your options here as there may be opportunities to achieve savings.

6

Is all the plant and equipment required in good order and listed?

Has the stock been accounted for and valued appropriately?

Make sure that any goodwill is appropriate to the strength and earnings of the business.

Perhaps the entire plant is not required by you, or some stock is out of date and unlikely to sell — get it down to only the things you need to run the business. Goodwill is often subjective and it’s in your interest to negotiate this.

7

Determine what legal structure you will utilise to operate the business, how you will fund and service the money borrowed for the business and how you will contribute to its success.

Will you set up a trust to own the business, is the vendor willing to remain invested in the operation, or allow for staged payments or concessions to help get you going? Your account or lawyer will help you get this right.

Home to the right refill Just over 10 years ago, in July of the year 2000, the first Cartridge World shop in New Zealand opened. This was in Riccarton and was followed a week later with the store in the CBD of Christchurch.

Well a lot has changed since then. There are now Cartridge Worlds in Linwood, Hornby and Papanui; these five shops make up the Christchurch portion of the 37 shops nationwide.

Cartridge World specialises in refilling and refurbishing printer cartridges. The industry of printer cartridge refilling was developed to combat the high prices being charged by the original manufacturers for such easily reusable items. Seeing as most cartridges, whether they are inkjet or laser, photocopier or fax, can be refilled, an Australian man, Bryan Stokes saw an opportunity and created the franchise of Cartridge World. New Zealand was the first country out of Australia to adopt the franchise, and from here it spread to the world – there are now over 1,650 stores in 51 countries.

To guarantee the quality of the end product, Cartridge World imports more than 100 top-quality inks from Germany ensuring that the appropriate ink matches individual printer performance requirements.

Additionally, toners and components for laser printers are sourced from around the world and tested to ensure quality and yield similar to the original manufacturers’ cartridges.

Comprehensive testing is carried out on every cartridge processed by Cartridge World. Therefore, the company offers a 100 percent guarantee. In conjunction to this, the team at any Cartridge World is happy to offer advice on the best printers to meet a customers’ requirements.

Many people do query the quality and safety in using refilled cartridges. But as Deslee Southon of the Riccarton branch points out, “Refilled cartridges do not damage the printers in any way or void the warranty.

Cartridges are refilled to the same capacity with quality inks and produce the same print standard and page yield as genuine manufacturers’ cartridges.”

The main product used in the construction any printer cartridge is oil, with up to four litres required in the shell of most laser cartridges. Unfortunately, worldwide there is up to 87 million printer cartridges discarded into landfill annually. However, many of these cartridges could have been refilled or refurbished many times before the end of their useful life. Once cartridges can not be reused, they are sent away for shredding and the by product is used in the manufacture of park benches and planks for wharfs.

Terry Helm of the CBD branch says in the last 10 years other printer cartridge refillers have opened and closed.

So why has Cartridge World been successful?

“We have the support of an international franchise behind us and also as a small team we see service as paramount as repeat customers and positive word of mouth about our stores is crucial.”

To celebrate their first 10 years in New Zealand, during the month of September, Cartridge World is giving away four holidays for a family of four to the Gold Coast Australia with $1000 spending money. All you have to do to qualify for the draw is make a purchase at any of the five stores in Christchurch.

Simply put - refilling does work! So save money and visit your nearest Cartridge World store next time you’re out of ink or toner.

City

Riccarton

Linwood

Papanui

Hornby

198 St Asaph Street (03) 365-7739

96 Riccarton Road (03) 348-1045

228 Linwood Ave (03) 389-7737

18 Main North Road (03) 352 6419

391 Main South Road (03) 349-8899

Rangiora Swifttype (Agency) 172 High Street (03) 313 5937

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 13

News

Have we forgotten already?

I’ve been toying with the idea of writing a column in our publications for a while, the decision was finally made after a trying morning recently cold calling companies to purchase products. The experience was frustrating to say the least and finally pushed me to write about the things that irk me and the frustrations faced trying to manage a company in an unaccommodating climate. If you agree or disagree with my comments, or need to vent, write to me; put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard.

I’m confident everyone will agree, at some stage over the last year or two we did one or all of the following: • Put one’s nose to the grindstone and worked our arses off • Thought outside the square • Returned to basics • Asked “how high?” when clients asked us to jump!

• Wrote and re-wrote the standard sales pitch.

The list goes on…

With an event looming I needed to purchase branded products — what a struggle. All I was faced with was excuses: • We only do quantities up to 500 • We only do quantities over 5000 • Orange isn’t a standard colour • You don’t want to air freight • You’ve left it too late • The lady who deals with that is away.

Consequently not a single product was bought.

Has everyone forgotten how precious every single sale is? I was a cold, unsolicited incoming call. It’s clear from my experience this particular day we’ve slipped back into our old hum-drum ways of not working hard to make a sale.

Not one iota of passion, enthusiasm or even helpfulness was experienced.

My day ended with a trip to a mall to return a watch for repair, three months into the warranty of a well known brand. The counter sales person said to me “I’m not sure the warranty will cover it, they only cover the watch, not the strap.”

You have got to be kidding me, this lady got the death stare — I think she knew how I felt!

This was followed by a visit to a jewellery kiosk. I asked to try on a costume ring, would you believe it, the sales person took it out and popped it on the counter, promptly turned and walked back to where she was standing in the middle of the kiosk to do… nothing… just stand there. No one else was at the kiosk!

At the end of a very frustrating day, I realised the hard work our nation has put into customer service and sales over the last year or two has been forgotten. The lesson here is, it doesn’t matter in tough times or in good times, we still need to be at the top of our game. There needs to be a continuous strive to go above and beyond, or the tough times will get tougher and the good times will never eventuate!

Rebecca Harris is the General Manager of the Academy Group of Companies.

All correspondence regarding this column to: Email. rebecca@academy.net.nz Post. ’Rebecca’s Rant’, PO Box 1879

Christchurch 8140

By Kate Pierson

In New Zealand, Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the figure 12.5 percent have long gone hand in hand — but that’s all about to change.

The 2010 Budget announcement that GST will rise to 15 percent effective from October 1, confirmed the speculatory whispers preceding this legislative adjustment.

And, going by the influx of public protests and the flash of political claws in the democratic arena, this decision spells controversy. But the more pressing question on everyone’s lips is, will the GST rise affect small to medium businesses?

What’s the verdict?

If you are one of the approximately 450,000 small to medium enterprises (affectionately known as SMEs), that make up more than 97 percent of all business in New Zealand, the media spotlight is on you in the wake of this announcement. And, chances are, you’ll be wondering what the GST hike means for your business’ margins, revenue and livelihood.

It’s hard to gauge a definitive verdict on the pros and cons of the GST hike if you’re drawing your conclusions from the noisy media landscape.

The resounding ‘woes, nos and what ifs?’ currently being voiced are contradicted, in turn, by strong verbal support of this decision.

Financial specialists, such as NZ Institute of Chartered Accountants tax director Craig Macalister, support this new financial equation, maintaining that personal tax cuts,

14 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

plus a GST hike, equals an improved tax system for New Zealand.

sector when making such a major decision as hiking up GST.

Yet a poll conducted by the Newmarket Business Association in May 2010, which was undertaken to gauge the opinions of key Auckland retailers on the GST rise, revealed 82 percent of the 400 respondents believed the timing of the government’s GST increase was “bad”.

“What we need is a smart economy with smart taxes that ensures a fair go for everyone.

Bumping up GST without hard analysis of the implications will only enlarge the divide between rich and poor. If the Government had spoken to business owners they would have realised how much disruption a decision like this can create for the industry.”

And while the survey revealed retailers were not overly-anxious about the rise, given personal tax cuts will be occurring simultaneously, it also showed that 53 percent of retailers believe the GST increase will have a negative impact on their own customers’ spending and a subsequent impact on their business turnover.

Newmarket Business Association chief executive Cameron Brewer says, “Given the very challenging retail environment of the past two years, the timing of the GST increase is viewed by most retailers as poor. Retailers have been knocked around for many months and they view this as just another obstacle.”

Brewer adds that despite personal tax cuts offering financial compensation to consumers, 73 percent of businesses surveyed also believed the GST increase will cost their business money to comply, due to the necessary acquisition of computer systems and repricing and retagging merchandise.

According to Brewer, the causal inspired commercial domino affect will also rear its ugly head across New Zealand, as meeting the cost of these demands will see businesses buckle under the financial pressure.

“There’s been a theory circulating that retailers won’t put up their prices come October for fear of scaring off price-sensitive shoppers,” he states. “However, the reality is there is not much room left in most retailers’ margins to absorb the rise. Eighty-seven percent of retails told us they intend to put up their prices to reflect the GST increase.”

Green Party small business spokesperson, David Clendon agrees with this argument, as he engages his own business experiences in consideration of the potential impact. “I’ve owned a small business myself and am shocked that so little consideration has been given to the

Clendon also believes the GST rise will have immediate and on-going implications for SMEs in the wake of the economic recession. “To cope with the GST rise, small businesses will need to prepare for inevitable fluctuations to demand and cash flow, major changes to their accounting system, a disjointed tax return and possibly an overhaul of all their products’ prices, which combined, is no small task.”

Brace for the impact Employers and Manufacturers Association chief executive Alasdair Thompson says there is no point running from the inevitable and impending GST rise; therefore it is imperative for businesses to go through this transition well prepared.

“SMEs will be aware of the rise being implemented on October 1, 2010 and most will not be able to just absorb the impact of this. Therefore, businesses will have to consider what increases they may need to implement on existing stock, as well as what their policy will be for new goods that come in after this rise.”

Thompson also acknowledges that pressures placed on SMEs by retailers to reduce costs on goods they are supplying to them, will find some businesses losing margin if they fulfil these demands. “It does put them in a quandary because if they don’t reduce prices on request, they risk losing that retail contract to their competitors.”

Thompson says in the lead up to the October 1, legislation changes, businesses should consider three things in particular; position, best pricing and margin.

“It is very important for businesses to maintain their margins, because if they don’t, they might find themselves on the road to ruin.”

Is your securIty sorted?

Access Lock Specialists Limited is celebrating three years of being at the forefront of security technology, with the company heavily focused on commercial security including stand-alone access control locks, electronic keypad safes and high-security master key systems.

Access Lock Specialists was formed in 2007 by owners Roger Barriball and Richard Nind. It grew out of a mobile locksmith business that Richard had previously operated.

The company has expanded significantly since 2007 and today specialises in the installation and repair of digital locks, electronic locks and safes for the home and business, automotive keys and transponder keys, while offering a complete locksmith service through its shop, service vans and website.

From its modern showroom and workshop at 170 Waterloo Road, Hornby, Access Lock Specialists offers quality branded products for all applications and full workshop services. It is an authorised dealer for several leading brands, including Chubb, Secureline and Yale Safes, and its products include padlocks, heavy duty chain and cable, hasp and staples, window locks, ranch-slider locks, mortice locks, deadbolts, residential and commercial locksets, keys and key accessories.

Focus on automotive Richard says Access Lock Specialists is working hard to grow its range of services and is now focusing heavily on the automotive locksmith market.“We have a full container-height roller door into our workshop and we can take any sized vehicle, from buses to trucks and cars,” he says.

“We’ve expanded into the back of our workshop and now have plenty of vehicle workshop space and secure storage.”

While the company has always done automotive keys, it is currently increasing its workload with electronic transponder keys, which are computer chipped in the key head.

“We can programme them and make new ones.

There have always been a lot of grey areas around transponder keys, but there have been a lot of

advances in technology to counter that. It’s a very interesting aspect of our business and we’re moving rapidly from mechanical to electronic.”

Home security automation Access Lock Specialists can provide a wide range of electronic locks for homes and businesses. The team is getting prepared for the launch later this year of a new wireless home automation system.

“The new system means you’ll be able to lock and unlock your door from your iphone or computer,” Roger says.

“There’s been home automation for a long time but this is wireless - this is an add on. There are issues with frequency that still have to be dealt with but we will be able to install that system.

They’re looking at releasing it as a package where you get a lock and hub and you can install that and then you can grow it from there if you want to.”

We do both commercial and residential lock services and installations. We do free security key services and quotes for residential and commercial customers,” he says.

“We want to keep moving forward. Customers come to us because we’re a small company, we’re focused very much on the service we provide and much of it is same-day service. We get onto the job and get the work done.”

Access Lock Specialists is a member of the Master Locksmiths’ Association of Australasia and the New Zealand Locksmiths’ Association, while Richard Nind is a trade tester with the MLAA and is a registered apprentice tester.

Access Lock Specialists Limited 170 Waterloo Road, Hornby, Christchurch T (03) 344 5959 F (03) 344 5969 sales@accesslocks.co.nz www.accesslocks.co.nz

Roger says locking technology is advancing rapidly. “We’re keeping ourselves at the forefront of it, particularly with automotive technology.

We’re becoming the go-to company for that sort of product.”

Access Lock Specialists offers high-security key systems for businesses, which involve master keys and restricted systems to control the issue of keys.

The company is an authorised supplier of Kaba experT, a quality Swiss engineering security key system which uses a unique reversible key.

Company growth Access Lock Specialists currently has two service vehicles on the road but is hoping to grow its staffing levels and fleet within the next few months. The company is building a modern waiting room on site, to allow customers to wait comfortably while their vehicle locks are being serviced. There is also plenty of off-street parking.

The Access Lock team from left: Roger Barriball, Richard Nind, Mark Ellis and Dayle Broadmoree

Roger says there are many reasons why people choose to deal with Access Lock Specialists, including the company’s commitment to great service. “We’ve got 20-plus years’ experience each and we can put our hand to most things. We can deal with all aspects of locks and locksmithing.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 15

News Profile | Jenny Shipley

timeline 1952 — Born in Gore, Southland. Jenny’s father was a Presbyterian minister and she has three sisters 1971 — Qualifies as a teacher 1973 — Marries Burton Shipley 1975 — Joins the National Party 1987 — Successfully wins the Ashburton seat. At 35, Shipley was one of Parliament’s youngest-ever MPs 1990 — National wins the election. Shipley becomes the Minister of Social Welfare and the Minister of Women’s Affairs 1993 — National wins another election. Shipley becomes Minister of Health 1996 — National wins a third election. Shipley appointed Minister of Transport and Minister of State-Owned Enterprises 1997 — Becomes New Zealand’s first female Prime Minister after ousting Jim Bolger in a coup 1998 — National’s coalition with New Zealand First breaks down and Shipley ejects Winston Peters from caucus.

National retain the government benches with support from ACT and former New Zealand First MPs 1999 — Chairs the APEC summit in July, the first woman to do so — Loses the general election in November and becomes Leader of the Opposition 2000 — Suffers a heart attack 2001 — Bill English replaces her as Leader of the Opposition 2002 — Shipley leaves politics after 15 years in Parliament 2004 — Becomes the chairperson of the board of Mainzeal 2007 — Shipley becomes a director of the China Construction Bank, China’s third largest bank 2009 — Shipley is knighted and becomes Dame Jenny

16 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

New

By Bridget Gourlay

July, 1971. A young Jenny Shipley is in her final year of teacher’s college in Christchurch. Halfway across the world in Beijing, Henry Kissenger, on behalf of the President of the United States, has feigned food poisoning while on a trip to Pakistan and is secretly meeting with the Chinese Premier.

Until then, China had been closed off since the early 1950s due to decades of Western colonisation and exploitation.

After Kissenger’s meeting, relations thawed. The country that few Kiwis had ever visited, the people that few Kiwis had ever met, opened up. Tourism, immigration and whopping economic growth followed.

Political scientists are calling China the world’s next superpower. Certainly, they’re already a super economy.

Forty years on from Kissenger’s famous visit, Jenny Shipley, our first woman Prime Minister and committed Sinofile says some New Zealand businesses have failed to capitalise on the FTA, ignoring the rise of China at their expense.

horizons Understanding Asia

has been growing between eight and 12 percent per annum.

Shipley says the emerging middle classes in China, and other growing Asian economies like Taiwan and South Korea, provide the opportunity for serious money to be made by New Zealand, and companies should be tapping into them.

However, Shipley thinks many Kiwi businesses have failed to capitalise on the opportunities the FTA has opened up. She says the best thing businesses could do is use the FTA to access the emerging Chinese middle class market, to ensure the next two or three decades of business success are diversified.

There’s no doubt it’s a shift — a shift away from our older trading partners the UK, the US and Australia, and a shift away from the language and culture we’re used to working in.

“Chinese people come to everything from a different point of view, their Confucian values to them are what Christian and Westminster values are to us. For New Zealand businesses doing business in China, they need to understand what’s in the minds of the people. It’s not that they are duplicitous, it’s just how they think.

“Confucius values have a huge respect for authority and have a great link to family ties, so lots of businesses in China are very much connected in terms of family and often New Zealand businesses misinterpret that.”

Because Confucianism values authority, attending trade delegations with either mayors, ministers or prime ministers is an enormously valuable entry point into Asia, because it stamps the approval of authority and often Chinese businesses look to that connection.

“It doesn’t make your business safe, but it’s a very important element to show that you have the approval of the authorities in terms of the way you do business. Again I think a lot of New Zealand businesses don’t recognise the value, perhaps the opportunity, to go on trade delegations with the mayor for example or the minister. It’s something I hope over time New Zealand companies will become comfortable with.”

Confucian Institutes have been popping up around the country as the Government seeks to invest in its China knowledge. Shipley, who visits China several times year and is on the board of the China Construction Bank (the country’s third largest bank) strongly advises businesses to make the most of these.

“Both the language and the culture are important, just as they are with Maori.

Understanding the form and interpretation behind what you are seeing happening will improve your business acumen in a complex market.”

She says businesses should either send their senior executives on Confucian Institute programmes or “invest their next generation of smart young things on whom they are relying to help them execute their business strategy”.

Make the most of the FTA In 2008, New Zealand made history as being the first western nation China signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with. Not the USA, not the EU, but New Zealand was given that honour. China’s economy, even with the worldwide recession,

“At the moment some companies are getting their minds around that strategy very well, while others are still quite nervous and reluctant to turn their minds to Asia. Those who do will be very successful in the next two or three decades and those who don’t will continue to try and do business with what are flat economies in terms of their growth potential.”

Opportunity for Canterbury Shipley sees Canterbury as ripe to do especially well off the emerging middle classes in China — who are demanding our dairy products.

She says Canterbury businesses must develop well-researched brand strategies, “so we’re not just sending bags of milk powder, rather looking at what types of products the Chinese supermarket is looking for.

“Whether it’s the Fonterras, or the Open Countries, or the Synlaits, all of these businesses have enormous opportunity to find business partners in emerging markets like China… (there is) definitely a huge opportunity for Canterbury to double its value add in the next decade. I know you’ve got some great leaders down there who are trying to do just that.”

Future prospects Shipley is positive in how she sees New Zealand’s economy and how well we’ve weathered the recession. Asia and its strong demand for our products again is key. But so are the choices she made in the 1990s.

She says we, and Australia, took out our subsidiaries to industry and got our foreign debt down at that time, meaning we weren’t as badly hit as Europe is today.

“Also, when New Zealand has historically gone into a strong and sustained growth cycle, it has been driven by exports, not by consumption.

“So the shift we’ve seen in the last 18 months, where consumption is reduced and the export led recovery has started to emerge, is a very important sign and gives me a lot of confidence that as long as Europe doesn’t hit another unforeseen bump over and above what we are seeing now, I think New Zealand can be cautiously optimistic that we are coming through this recent difficulty.”

She says Europe and the US have to face up to a harsh reality; they are spending more than they have and that at some stage this trend has

to change. “My sense is that the political will is starting to emerge to do that. There may well be a staggered recovery as opposed to a smooth recovery and we’re not going to see the rapid return growth that we experienced in the late 90s and early to mid part of this decade. Having said that I am confident that New Zealand is well positioned compared with many others.”

News Profile | Jenny Shipley

Jenny Shipley attending a fundraiser for the Heart Foundation

Looking back Born and bred in small town Gore, Shipley trailblazed her way up the National Party. From first winning her Ashburton electorate, in 1987, it was only 10 years later when she climbed the ranks to become New Zealand’s first woman prime minister.

Shipley doesn’t reflect too much on her political career. She says she’s proud she led New Zealand through the Asian financial crisis in the 1990s with four and a half percent growth, but says history will judge her successes and failures for her.

“There are many things probably in a different time you might have done things differently…

I’m having much too much fun chairing four companies and being involved in the Asian markets and the China Construction Bank. These things exercise my mind and fill my time and my curiosity.”

Part of the fun she’s been having is being the vice president of Club Madrid, a group of former democratic leaders, which includes the likes of Bill Clinton, who give advice or do conflict resolution with politicians all around the world.

She’s also on the Women World Leaders Council, sharing her experience and mentoring young aspiring women.

Further afield Shipley has returned to Namibia this year.

She first visited the country in 2008 and was inspired to set up a family trust for a group of schools with her husband and two friends.

“These are fine young people. I hope that they in some way will shape the future of Namibia and the future of Africa.

“I hold the view that it’s the next big thing after Asia, Africa is getting its act together and New Zealand will, in due course, need to think about some very large populations in Africa and the opportunity it offers us and the opportunity we can offer them.”

Jenny Shipley in Africa

“I’m a New Zealander in everything I do, whether it’s the companies I chair or the companies I advise or the speeches I make.

Certainly a great part of my heart lies in Canterbury, but it’s New Zealand I seek to promote.”

Despite all her travels and passion for other countries, Shipley says she is first and foremost a Kiwi.

“I’m a New Zealander in everything I do, whether it’s the companies I chair or the companies I advise or the speeches I make.

Certainly a great part of my heart lies in Canterbury, but it’s New Zealand I seek to promote.

“We’ve all got to try and do that, and I definitely try to do that at every opportunity I’ve got.” www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 17

News

Making our cup runneth over

By Melinda Collins

Christchurch is hoping for a successful run in the Rugby World Cup (RWC) for 2011 — and not just inside the stadium.

Gearing up to host thousands of rugby-mad fans, the city is experiencing a superficial facelift in preparation for hosting seven RWC matches. But the results of the event are expected to be far beyond superficial.

With more than 60,000 visitors expected in September and October 2011, it will be the largest sporting event ever held in New Zealand, eclipsing the 1987 Rugby World Cup, 1990 Commonwealth Games, 1992 Cricket World Cup, 2003 America’s Cup and 2005 British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand.

But with a $310 million price tag, many are wondering if the event will prove to be the economic elixir the region is hoping for.

Managing potential The Canterbury Development Corporation is aiming to make the most out of the event, so far as to appoint a Rugby World Cup manager to ensure the economic potential is realised.

Anne Hindson has been appointed to coordinate and develop the many business opportunities which will result from Christchurch hosting the event.

“RWC 2011 is huge for our city and much of my role is ensuring that we maximise all the opportunities it offers and that there are long term benefits from the connections made at this major event,” she says.

“We want to make sure that the huge investment that we’ll be making as a country and province during the two to three weeks of the event has an ongoing economic benefit.”

Ann Hindson, Rugby World Cup manager for the Canterbury Development Corporation

With a vast range of experience under her corporate belt, Hindson will co-ordinate with the agencies involved in hosting the RWC 2011 including Christchurch City Council,

18 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Canterbury Rugby Union, VBase, Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism and the Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and work closely with RNZ 2011, NZ 2011 and New Zealand Trade and Industry.

“RWC 2011 is not all about rugby. Christchurch is totally committed to holding a host of festivities and cultural events so that there’s something for everyone during what’s going to be a very exciting time in our city.”

“RWC 2011 is a perfect opportunity for us to showcase Canterbury business to the world. A large number of overseas business leaders will come to Christchurch for the event and hopefully we will be able to use the opportunity to introduce them to local business,” she says.

Despite dominating the world rankings, 1987 remains the All Blacks’ only World Cup success.

New Zealand also co-hosted the inaugural World Cup in 1987.

Hindson says Christchurch is hosting countries with enormous potential for business, sporting, cultural and educational links such as Australia, England, Argentina, Georgia and Russia.

Another part of her role will be engaging Christchurch residents with the event.

Along with the trophy, the country as a whole won international praise for successfully staging the event. Here’s hoping history will repeat itself for RWC 2011.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 19

Living | Today

By Kate Pierson

packing it in

products

Who said material indulgence isn’t practical? Because we’ve well and truly disproved that theory with our good looking and user-friendly products for you. We went on a style scouting mission to find bag solutions that fit into the functional luxury category and we exceeded our own expectations when the commercial heavens opened and delivered to us, seven fine formed models with looks, personality and purpose.

men

Overnight/weekend Konev Zip Top Overnight Bag When you want to live in the moment, having a carry-on whose features complement an impulsive excursion (think plentiful space, lightweight and easy to store) to accompany you is key. Handcrafted in New Zealand and made from cow hide, the Konev Overnight Bag has been made with your spontaneous streak in mind. Featuring a zip top for ease of content accessibility, this practical pleasure is available in black and chocolate cowhide, black and red calf and avocado or tamarillo antique nappa.

Rodd and Gunn Large Weekender Bag Don’t do metrosexuality when it comes to a ‘manbag’?

You don’t have to, because Rodd and Gunn’s Large Weekender Bag defines traditional masculinity.

Handcrafted in New Zealand, this 100 percent Italian leather luggage is a hybrid of practicality and presence.

It’s rare to find a bag that makes a statement without ‘look at me’ bells and whistles, but the Large Weekender Bag has done just that.

Better still, it promises long life and style longevity with its 100 percent cotton Rodd and Gunn plaid lining and durable exterior.

Dimensions: 25cm H x 65cm W x 29cm D Available: www.shopnewzealand.co.nz RRP: $528

Dimensions: 32cm H x 56cm W x 26.5cm D Available: www.roddandgunn.co.nz RRP: $1199

Holiday Louis Vuitton Monogram Pegase 55 The signature LV iconography may stand for Louis Vuitton, but it also represents Luxury Vacation. It’s a range in which you can get lost in the possibilities, yet the cabin sized Louis Vuitton Monogram Pegase 55 is still a stand-out. Integrating the iconic Louis Vuitton monogram skin, with a large volumetric capacity that defies its cabin case body, the Pegase 55 is portability meets aesthetic perfection.

Dressed in a natural cowhide trim with polyamide lining, this ultra-portable model features leather handles with a self locking expandable handle and an easy-to-attach protective sleeve with windows for the handles and wheels.

And while the Pegase’s iconic facade may command attention for

Office Rare Edition Designs Large Folio Bag Classic and contemporary have found each other thanks to Rare Edition Designs. RED’s Vintage Bling (sepia on natural colour) Folio Bag in genuine black leather is an amalgamation of traditional style and noveau chic. Featuring an internal pocket and dedicated mobile phone holder, there is a zip closure at the mouth of the bag for added security, adjustable straps for convenience and its full shape and length can accommodate A4 folders and files, making the Folio Bag an essential office accessory.

Made in New Zealand using hand screen printed, limited edition textiles by designer Sarah Martin, the Folio has a split style personality — in a good way. Its facade may connote a sense of whimsical, but it has a fiery nature with deep red fabric lining.

Available: Vintage Bling and Wild Wisteria at www.rareeditiondesigns.co.nz RRP: $499

women 20 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

its strong affiliation with style, it has a very quiet demeanour with noiseless wheels.

Its protective instinct will ensure your most precious personals will be well accommodated by an inside zipped pocket and two clothing protection flaps with additional zipped pockets

Pierre Cardin

Featuring a secure sealed golden brass closure and natural cowhide reinforcements on a wood structure, this classically chic addition to your family of luggage sports an adjustable leather strap for convenience, a removable leather ID holder and protective golden brass feet.

Pierre Cardin luggage is built to last the test of time. Constructed from a featherlight but resilient polycarbonate, these cases, ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 kilograms have a tough personality and can withstand the rough and tumble of a boys trip. With an internal organiser integrated into the fully lined interior, plus a triple combination lock, zipper protection and lock down zipper pulls, the Pierre Cardin polycarbonate luggage will keep things in order when exchanging your playful for practical side.

Dimensions: 40cm x 18cm Available: Louis Vuitton locally and internationally RRP: $3950

Dimensions: Small 55cm, medium 65cm, large 79cm Available: Ballantynes RRP: $265

Dimensions: 50cm H x 40cm W by 20cm D Available: Louis Vuitton locally and internationally RRP: $4000

Louis Vuitton Monogram Hat Box Whether it’s wrapping itself around your latest fashion fixation, fascinator or fedora, it’s classic Hollywood meets contemporary sophistication with the Louis Vuitton Monogram Hat Box.

3 Wise Men Leather Satchel Word is out there has been a discovery of the fourth gift offered by the 3 Wise Men — not to be confused with those that delivered the gold, frankincense and myrrh of course.

The three wise men we have on our style radar have offered New Zealand’s most style conscious the gift of shirts, belts and cotton boxers that have been joined by a leather satchel searching for a home in your office. Crafted with 100 percent soft cowhide leather, this chocolate brown satchel is utilitarian by look and by nature. With an internal zip pocket, cellphone holder and long shoulder strap for comfortability, the 3 Wise Men brand has revolutionised office apparel for your convenience.

Available: In store at 3 Wise Men or online www.3wisemen.co.nz RRP: $350

Living | Today

Gadget Polaroid Two We all remember with nostalgia the instant magic that was the Polaroid camera, just as we love the latest digital technology. Well the clever chaps at ZINK Imaging Inc. have thrown the two together to create Polaroid Two. The Polaroid Two is a new instant digital camera with a built in instant printer which utilises ZINK Zero Ink Printing technology. The Polaroid Two can snap a 5MP image and print it instantly, making it the ideal camera to take with you anywhere to snap, print and share your memories. The Polaroid Two combines the innovation of instant printing photography with all the functions of a digital camera.

touches of style

lifestyles

Available: From electronics stores nationwide RRP: $379

Sustainable tech Real Wood Computer Keyboard and Mouse The world has gone bonkers for sustainability — you know it, we know it, and certainly the inventors of random contraptions know it. The latest craze to hit is bamboo.

With its self-replenishing characteristics, bamboo has become the eco-darling of sustainability.

Individually hand-crafted from environmentally friendly bamboo, the look is warm, natural and upmarket, perfect for an executive office or den.

If you care about your decor, the Real Wood Computer Keyboard and Mouse allows your technology to blend with your surroundings, that is if your surroundings are the jungle.

Available: www.latestbuy.com.au RRP: $124.94

Destination Rotorua TripAdvisor travellers have just voted a Rotorua spa resort as one of the best places to relax in the South Pacific — and what better time of the year to take a spa break than winter.

Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort contains all which the best accommodation facilities do; restaurant, bar and other well appointed facilites (although uniquely decorated in Maori art), but what sets this destination aside is the award winning Wai Ora Day Spa. ‘Wai Ora’ means healing waters and it is an apt name for the resort featuring relaxing massage options such as volcanic stone massages based on traditional Maori healing and wellbeing techniques. Rotorua is a special place with its unique cultural and geothermal heritage. Now you can experience it all at Wai Ora Spa Resort, the lakeside resort with stunning sunsets over the backdrop of the Rotorua volcanic caldera.

Availability: Contact Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort Rotorua 0800 345 318, www.waioraresort.co.nz RRP: Rates from $199

Funky furniture

Top drop

Bed Bug

Sacred Hill pinot noir 2009

Italy is branded as the world’s centre of fashion excellence and people are fascinated with Italy’s extraordinary sense of style. So it’s little wonder we also gain decor trends from this fashion capital. Created by renowned designer Paola Navone and showcased in Milan just this year, the Bed Bug is already making waves around the world. ‘Characterised by stylistic creativity and technology, though preserving the canons of elegance and design,’ the website states. But you only have to look at the photos to recognise the simple elegance the Bed Bug represents.

When it comes to wine, cheap does not always equate to nasty. The 2009 Scared Hill pinot noir has been voted WineNZ’s ‘Outstanding and Best Value Under $30’ in its recent pinot noir tasting. Judged by three internationally experienced judges, the closing comments show why we have selected this pinot noir as our top drop.

“Sacred Hill has a deserved reputation for the quality and value for money of their wines. Here we see a good example of why. Along with lush fruit-pastille aromas on the nose we found a dense, fruity palate that is ripe but not overly sweet and that shows plenty of concentration and depth of flavour.”

Available: Studio Italia (09) 523 2105, info@ studioitalia.co.nz, www.studioitalia.co.nz RRP: From $9980

Available: From wine outlets nationwide RRP: $20.90

Go-fast toy Blokart Feel the wind rush past your face as you zoom around a park or beach, your body barely 10 centimetres above the ground, in your very own Blokart.

Don’t be fooled by its impressive looks, this fine piece of Kiwi ingenuity is the perfect point to start for those with no sailing experience. Anyone can do it regardless of age or physical ability.

The wind-powered, hair-raising toy, more commonly known as a land yacht, has soared in popularity since its inception, now being sold in Europe, Britain, the Middle East, South Africa, the US, Australia and its New Zealand birthplace. Hire one in your area or buy one for yourself.

Available: Blokart International and registered distributors nationwide 0800 4 BLOKART, email info@blokart.com or visit www.blokart.com RRP: Prices from $3990

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 21

Events | Diary Grow your business

Viewpoint | Promotional Expertise

|

events

Tuesday, August 17

Power Pitching Workshop — New Zealand Trade and Enterprise

Getting your pitch right is the secret to luring investors and should also open the gateway to attracting talented staff and profitable customers. From 1pm-5pm. To register contact (03) 353 0035 or email training@cdc.org.nz

Tuesday, August 17

The Essential Guide to Raising Capital — Canterbury Development Corporation

If you are looking at raising external funding for your business in the next two years, this is the workshop for you. Designed for business owners who want to know more about seeking and securing external investment. From 9am-noon. To register phone (03) 353 0035 or email training@cdc.org.nz

Wednesday, August 18

Network After 5 — Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce

A simple and effective way to interact with other members that will give you the chance to talk about your products and services to other business people and learn what other members have to offer you. From 5.30-7.30pm. For more information contact (03) 366 5096 or visit www.cecc.org.nz

Thursday, August 26

Exporter After 5 — Export New Zealand

If you believe New Zealand exporters face unique opportunities and challenges, these Exporter After 5s are ideal to network with other business leaders. For more information contact Kellee Berry (03) 353 4163 or email canterbury@exportnewzealand.org.nz

Friday, August 27

Popcorn — The Loons Theatre Lyttelton

We all need to get our of the office now and then and what better way than to take in a play; especially one written by Ben Elton, co-writer of the Blackadder series. The play opens August 27. For other dates and information contact The Loons (03) 328 8230

Thursday, September 2

Planning for Growth — Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce

If you’re looking for a new challenge, have had enough of being labelled a small business and want to take your business to the next level, this is the workshop for you. From 9am-noon. To register contact Angela Rolton (03) 366 5096 or email angelar@cecc.org.nz

Tuesday, September 7

Spontaneous Collaboration — The Knowledge Gym

Look at the features of a collaborative workplace and examine how leaders and staff alike can leverage the wisdom of crowds to gain a real competitive advantage. To register visit www.theknowledgegym.com

Friday, September 10 to Sunday, September 12

Company Chairmen’s Workshop — Institute of Directors

The 2010 Company Chairmen’s Workshop will be held at Millbrook Resort, Queenstown.

Speakers will provide integrated yet broad perspectives on economic, political and technological change as drivers in the boardroom. To register visit www.iod.org.nz

Tuesday, September 14

The How To of Practice Management — New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants

Find out more about how to manage your practice. To get more information on how this workshop will benefit you and your practice at www.nzica.com

Wednesday, September 15

Corporate Accountants Special Interest Group — New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants To find out about this event and how it will benefit you, visit www.nzica.com

Tuesday, September 21

Know your Business — Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce

This is a low-key session for members to run through a checklist covering key areas of your business to identify where you may need the chamber’s help. From 4pm-6pm. To register contact Angela Rolton (03) 366 5096 or email angelar@cecc.org.nz

Friday, October 1

Mid-South Canterbury Golf Challenge — New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants

This event will be held at the Timaru Golf Club, 87 Lynch Road. To find out more about how to enter and who can enter visit www.nzica.com

Tuesday, October 12

Claim Your Pitch — The Knowlege Gym

We all sell something for a living, whether it’s a brand, a vision, an education or a service.

So how authentic are you when you sell? Does your natural energy come across and is your audience drawn to you? From 8.30am-noon. To register visit www.theknowledgegym.com

Tuesday, October 19

Incite — Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce

A one-day business event designed to educate, inspire and motivate in an entertaining manner. It will challenge the traditional way of doing business. From 9.30am-5pm.

To register contact Maree McEnaney (03) 366 5096 or email mareem@cecc.org.nz

Wednesday, October 20 to Thursday, October 21 Chairing the Board — Institute of Directors

This course is invaluable in preparing directors for the challenges or chairmanship and is designed to fine-tune the effectiveness of current chairmen using realistic simulated company situations and interactive discussion from the floor. To register visit www.iod.org.nz

If you have events you would like featured in the Events Diary, email newsroom@academy.net.nz at least two months before the date of the event.

Or, if you have held an event and would like to supply photos for the Been Seen section (along with 100 words about the event and a caption for each image), send to newsroom@academy.net.nz 22 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Become the

‘local expert’ for your industry

By Pete Burdon

One of the best ways to promote your business is by becoming the local industry expert in the eyes of your clients and prospects. This may sound like a difficult task, but it is not as challenging as it may seem. You can become that person through your local media.

All you need to do is to make comment on issues affecting your industry when they become prominent.

For example, when real estate figures are released for different regions, a real estate agent should comment on whether the trend has been followed in his or her patch. This then becomes a local story and of interest to local media.

Currently national associations are the only ones who comment on such things. This means local media will either not cover the story, or use comments made by national associations in Wellington. They would far rather use local comments, but don’t have the time to find them. That’s why you need to approach them.

Real estate is a good example of the opportunities available but they exist in all industries. For example, when tourism figures are released, a tourism business could comment on how the figures relate to that particular company or region. Or after the Government increased the tax on tobacco recently, pharmacists could comment on what that policy has done to the demand for smoking cessation products. I could go on.

The reasons local companies fail to get this coverage is because they are not proactive

with the media. This is despite the many benefits of becoming the local industry expert.

By preparing simple press releases as soon as issues arise and sending them to local media, you can become this expert. Press releases are similar to the stories you see in the newspaper, but they are sent to journalists to encourage them to write stories on the topics covered.

When writing your press releases, remember to keep them short and sharp and avoid promoting your business. This is purely about you offering the local media information that will interest their readers. Anything that looks like a company advertisement dressed up as a news story will be rejected.

A good site to find press release examples is infonews.co.nz.

Any issue that can affect your industry or business is fair game to comment on. If you are in the news commenting on things related to your industry, you gain instant status among potential customers or clients as an expert. This does wonders for your credibility, reputation and leads to more business.

But this can only be achieved if you take advantage of the opportunities that arise.

This requires you to include media publicity as an important part of your overall marketing strategy.

Pete Burdon is director of Seeking Publicity, a company offering media relations consulting and training services. Email info@seekingpublicity.co.nz or check out the website www.seekingpublicity.co.nz

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 23

Clearing the air It’s not called the land of the long white cloud for nothing. A combination of New Zealand’s damp climate, and the moisture you create in your home every day from cleaning, cooking, and washing is working against you achieving a healthy home. It can be sorted simply with HRV Ventilation.

HRV deliver positive pressure ventilation systems which take the naturally drier air from the roof space, filters it and distributes it evenly throughout the home. This environment creates a drier, less humid and warmer environment that flushes dust particles, pollens and indoor air contaminants from the home and reduces mould, fungi and dust mite populations.

Huge growth HRV CEO Bruce Gordon says the business has gone from a relatively small New Zealand start-up operation to a market leader with around 500 employees in a few short years, winning several prestigious awards including the Deloitte Fast 50 award in 2006.

The company currently installs hundreds of new systems every month. Due to its benefits and negligible running costs, its goal is to put a ventilation system into every home in the country. The franchises are all 100 percent locally owned and operated with dedicated employees working in sales, administration, customer service, installation and the trades.

“We are all passionate about our product – we thrive on helping Kiwi homeowners make their homes healthier and more comfortable,” Gordon says.

Asthma Foundation statistics show one in four Kiwi kids are estimated to have asthma. It’s the most common cause of hospital admission among New Zealand children.

“There is nothing better than receiving a letter in HRV from a parent saying they are experiencing far fewer health issues with their children, especially for pollens and dust-mites triggering asthma related problems.”

HRV is also the sponsor of the HRV Cup – a successful Men’s Twenty20 cricket competition which has brought droves of people back to our summer game.

Independent certification HRV’s environmental and health credentials have been independently certified. HRV has been approved by the National Asthma Council Australia and the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation of New Zealand as part of the Sensitive Choice programme.

This programme approves products that may be helpful for people with asthma and allergies. From June 2009 the

24 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Free quote To asses your specific home’s needs, an HRV ventilation specialist will visit your home.

Temperature readings will be taken around the home and in the roof cavity space. The HRV specialist will then discuss, select and design the

system for you and provide a free, no obligation quote on the most suitable system for your home.

HRV also has a range of supporting technologies including a heat recovery ventilation system (or heat exchanger); solar ventilation (the HRV Solamate) and LHZ Electric Stone-store radiators.

HRV brand has featured the Sensitive Choice symbol, a butterfly, so customers know how good the HRV system is for those prone to repository illness.

HRV in Canterbury

In April 2009 HRV was awarded the Good Environmental Choices Australia Certification. This certification is for products that are both innovative and have direct benefits to the environment - in HRV’s case it was the ability to harness free solar energy to aid heating and therefore reduce the reliance on power and water hungry traditional heating and cooling systems.

“Through the HRV Cup, we were happy to give a little back to the community and really enjoyed the familyfriendly atmosphere at the games,” says Shalene Gray, director of Sustainable Home Solutions (trading as HRV Canterbury South).

Starting with a rigorous process examining not only the product, but also manufacturing and company practices, certification is then awarded after close scrutiny of efficacy and performance claims against actual research and end user information.

“Don’t just take our word for it – being awarded both environmental and health certification from independent not for profit associations shows that our ventilating systems truly do what we say they do,” says Gordon.

HRV don’t just see itself as a business, but as part of the Canterbury community.

“So we’re extremely excited going another step further by supporting grass-roots junior cricket around the region – be on the lookout for lots of fun activities at the parks this summer.”

The two Canterbury franchises service the area from Kaikoura to Timaru and employ about 50 local people.

HRV Ventilation 70 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch T (03) 365 7638 • F (03) 365 8142 www.hrv.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 25

News | Business Commandments

people management

Thou shalt have a flexible HR or people plan

By Bridget Gourlay

Be it restructuring a company, hiring to open a new branch or wrestling with the tricky issues of redundancies, dealing with humans can be a nightmare that makes you yearn for the simpleness of an entry level job where watering the cubicle’s pot plant once a week was your greatest management responsibility. Sometimes parting the Red Sea seems easier than creating an environment where staff work hard and well, yet happily.

Elephant Training and HR Limited general manager, Angela Atkins uses her 14 years’ experience to ordain these ten commandments of human resources for both management and HR staff themselves, so everyone can stress less about the wonderful, but slightly daunting world of dealing with people.

Atkins says every business should know what the three to five key people issues will be for the next year, and have some strategies in place on how they are going to deal with those.

This might be retention of key people, recruiting for growth, developing key skills or upskilling managers. “But your plan should be flexible because people issues often change! To help the business achieve strategic goals through people, you should realise people issues can change quite quickly. Don’t be so set in a plan that it can’t be re-arranged,” Atkins says.

We plan, God laughs. From the 2IC starting up on his own, to the team leader being head-hunted, to the accountant getting pregnant and going on maternity leave, Atkins stresses the importance of flexibility.

Thou shalt ask thy executive team challenging questions about their people “Often you’ve got a management team from specific areas — an IT person or the financial controller. If no one’s actually asking questions about the people side then you’re in trouble. That’s where HR adds value and challenges thinking,” Atkins says. “All the senior management team should be thinking about how plans for the company will impact on the people.”

Thou shalt not use jargon “You don’t need to use big words to make HR sound more credible,” Atkins advises. People understand simple language and waffling on about “talent pipeline” and “bench-strength” is confusing and isolating. Speak English.

Thou shalt hire an HR team that makes the HR process effective and simple No one wants a convoluted system to stress out about.

A good HR team will have quick and easy processes for hiring new employees, induction, developing skills, setting goals, reviewing performance, dealing with performance issues or misconduct and termination when employees leave.

Thou shalt hire an HR team who make managers lives easier by simplifying processes, not complicating them

That’s what they’re paid for.

26 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Thou shalt not sit in thy office all day Both the HR team and management team should be approachable for employees to come and discuss issues with, Atkins says. “Get out into the business — go to morning tea, the after work drinks. Be a friendly face.” The entire point of being in HR or management is that you are supposed to be a people person. Creating an open and pleasant atmosphere is part of your job.

Thou shalt keep thy HR knowledge up to date Like any other industry, human resource management is constantly developing and being off the eight ball can be a disaster. Atkins advises attending meetings and reading the research the Human Resources Institute of New Zealand (HRINZ) offers. “It’s so important to keep up with legislation changes, knowing what’s going on the industry you are in and with HR practises in general.”

Thou shalt hire HR staff with business acumen Hire HR people with business acumen so they know where you’re coming from. A good HR person shouldn’t just know about HR — they must also understand business so they can help the business grow in all facets.

Thou shalt drive the culture in conjunction with the HR team “It’s the culture of the company that people relate to, that’s what makes a difference and that’s why people want to stay,” Atkins says. Everyone knows that employees who enjoy their jobs work harder and stay with the company longer, building knowledge and experience bases. Hiring new staff all the time requires extra training and all the expense and time that goes with that. “This culture needs to come from every manager in the business and not just HR,” Atkins advises. Employees need to feel their managers care.

Thou shalt help others to help themselves Empowering people to take responsibility for themselves goes down so much better than acting like the HR police, Atkins says. Discussing with managers what support they need but in the end making them responsible for managing their teams is far more productive than HR trying to do this themselves.

News | Business Commandments

finance

By Melinda Collins

Money can be a modern day paradox — the more you try and acquire it, the more elusive it can become. It has been the global currency of barter since the emergence of ancient cities and empires and is the currency by which business success or failure is measured on. In short, financial competency is simply essential. Yet, despite its cardinal nature, it seems few know how to manage it.

Financial literacy, or lack thereof, is one of the most common and visible links between success and failure within the business landscape.

The well-being of our businesses is linked inextricably to the well being of our finances. In recognition of this correlation, we have enlisted the knowledge and expertise of E3 Business Accountants managing director Jamie Tulloch to put together the 10 commandments of finance to survive and thrive in business.

With more than 25 years of experience in the finance industry, Tulloch is qualified for his commentary.

Thou shalt study the basics of accountancy Understand what is debit, what is credit and what accrual accounting actually means. Accounting should be the preceeding framework of any business, Tulloch says. When you’re going to play the business game, you need to know how to keep score. “If you don’t understand the very basics, stop now or get training.”

Thou shalt know what goes into a profit and loss report and why The profit and loss report indicates how your revenue is transformed into the net income, or your revenue after expenses have been taken off. Quite simply, it tells if your business is profitable or not. “It should be called a profit or loss report as it is either one or the other when it comes to the numbers at the bottom.”

Thou shalt understand how cashflow projection works, as opposed to profit and loss A cashflow projection predicts your cash balances into the future. Profit does not equate to cash, giving the cashflow projection greater insight into the liquidity of the business.

“You might have a great looking profit in your profit and loss report, but no money in the bank,” Tulloch says. “Your cashflow report will tell you where all the cash has gone.”

Thou shalt be able to read and understand a balance sheet and what it is actually telling you A balance sheet is a summary of the financial balances of a business. Assets, liabilities and ownership equity are listed as of a specific date. In short, the balance sheet is a snapshot of a company’s financial condition. “The balance sheet lists all your assets and liabilities so you know the net wealth of your business.”

Thou shalt know the profit drivers in your business Profit drivers are business factors that impact very significantly on your bottom line. In a retail environment, a key profit driver may be add-on sales. Focusing on these add-on purchases, while not increasing the amount of customers, can increase profit. “Profit drivers are not always understood and often the profit is not proportionate to sales. Ironically increasing sales can reduce your profits if the profit drivers are out of alignment.”

Thou shalt understand what comprises your gross profit and gross profit percentage Gross profit is the difference between revenue and the cost of making the product or providing the service which earned it, not including operating expenses. The percentage represents the proportion of the dollar the company banks as gross profit. A gross profit of 35 percent means the company is making 35 cents in every dollar, before operating expenses are taken out. If the month by month figure is increasing, business is good and vice versa.

“The gross profit is the engine room of your business,” Tulloch says. “If the gross profit is down (either dollar or percentage wise), then the rest of your business will quickly fall into bad shape.”

Thou shalt have the discipline to produce accurate monthly financial reports that tell the whole story

Failing to plan is planning to fail. Monthly financial reports allow you to know exactly where your business is at any given point.

They allow you to make educated business decisions and can illustrate trends between years or quieter times of the year, to allow you to more accurately project future income. “If you treat this exercise as less than ‘mission critical’ then you will lose financial control of your business.”

Thou shalt stay close to your bank and accountant Spend good money with professional advisors but only if they know about business. Ensure from the offset you choose the right accountant and bank to suit your needs. Check credentials and areas of specialising before taking on an accountant.

Overall determine your accountacy needs and seek someone you feel suits.

“Your bank has what you need to run your business — cash,” Tulloch says. “Use the bank’s cash with the aim of doubling it within three years.

“Check the credentials of your accountant — does he or she really know about the hard school of business, or is he or she just a nice, pleasant bean counter.”

Thou shalt understand the relationship between your gross profit and net profit Net profit is your gross profit minus your overheads and tax. Generally referred to as the bottom line, it is the total amount of profit a company has made after all other expenses have been taken into consideration. “If your gross profit is strong, your net profit should follow, provided you keep tight control on expenses.”

Thou shalt benchmark your business against similar businesses Know where your business is weak and where it is strong.

Just as you would investigate prices elsewhere for goods you are selling, you should investigate the performance of similar businesses. Tracking your own business can assist you in deciding what areas you need to work on. “Why not aim to be one of the top performers in your business category or sector? The financial performance figures of your competitors are available (albeit not by name), so use them to track your own performance.”

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 27

News | Business Commandments

communication

By Kate Pierson

Communication is translated verbally, visually and through various channels of interaction.

Subject to revolutionary changes, communication has been dressed up in hyperboles, dressed down with colloquials and dramatically revolutionised through the proliferation of technology and social networking.

Mastering the art of concise communication is about delivering a message that will reach and be consumed by the recipient in the way it which was intended. In business, communication relates to internal and external relationships and is a critical tool for business growth, efficiency and stability.

These 10 commandments on professional communication have been inspired by the expertise, advice and experiences of Erin Jamieson, co-founder and partner of Convergence Communications, which positions itself as the South Island’s leading strategic communications company.

Working with a range of leading brands and clients, Jamieson has more than 17 years experience in the field of strategic planning and communications. In this time, Jamieson has taught others how to speak the language of effective communication.

Thou shalt always tell the truth In business, an unwavering commitment to professional integrity that guides and governs your internal and external relationships, will serve you in good stead.

The ubiquitous presence of multi-dimensional technology has brought the world to consumer fingertips and the desire for instant gratification has been born. Gone are the days when information was subjected to limitations imposed by time or distance — ‘breaking news’ is now just that. This means telling the truth in the moment is imperative, particularly when confronting a crisis.

You can be sure that following the development of a ‘newsworthy story’ in which you and your business are playing the protagonist, a representation of the facts will also follow suit. And, needless to say, the truth and nothing but the truth should come from you. Because if an alternate version of events is delivered to the public or your customer base through a long line of Chinese whispers, it’s likely the tale being told will became a tall one and in the process your reputation may be assaulted by any misguided conclusions that are drawn.

Thou shalt keep thy staff and stakeholders fully formed Unless you are staying mum to respect commercial sensitivities, ensuring the lines of communication remain open between staff, stakeholders and business associates, is the key to creating a united front in the face of adversity. “This means that in a crisis, you need to be ready to go as soon as you can,” Jamieson says.

It’s not just the materialisation of a potential crisis that calls for effective communication though; offering the core constituents of your business an open door policy in the workplace nurtures an interactive and more productive organisation. Leading by example on the communication front sets a precedent and provides an exemplar on which staff can model themselves.

Thou shalt return journalists’ calls As a mouthpiece for messages, journalists have a duty to deliver. Be it a crisis or a celebration, if an event or an occasion has the X factor, journalists will always pick up the story’s scent. They can work with you, or against you, in these instances and the former should always be your preference, particularly when a situation spells controversy.

Remember, a public interest story will always be picked up by the media radar and it will be represented through your own dictation of the facts or a third party narration. “It’s okay to say you have nothing to tell them at that particular time, but do call them back,” Jamieson advises.

Treat your professional property, ie, the brand iconography, aesthetics and image you utilise to represent and define you and your company, with the same protective instinct you would your home or other material possessions. “Maintain, update and look after it because impressions count — this is what you may be measured on by your customer,” Jamieson says.

Thou shalt seek advice from experts If your communications skills are sound but you would like to revisit the fundamentals or integrate new skills into the mix, consult an external expert who can help you grow and enhance your communication vocabulary.

Thou shalt be bold It is comfortable to function within the parameters of what is familiar, but exercising your creative streak when it comes to communicating with your clients will command their attention.

Seek advice and creative sustenance along the way from organisations like the Canterbury Development Corporation and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise. “Don’t be afraid to take risks,” Jamieson says.

Thou shalt not be afraid to employ people smarter than you The expression “two heads are better than one” is apt here.

It’s about recognising that a collaborative communication effort can breathe new life into vintage practises. Truth is, when the same structures and strategies are employed, the tendency to do more of the same can see your customers visiting your competitors for some variety. When the time calls for a revitalisation of the old, introducing compatible personalities into the mix means you can preserve the professional formula that has worked well for you, but colour your communication canvass with more modern messages

Thou shalt learn from others’ trends Observing your external surroundings is not about plagiarising or poaching ideas from others, it is aligned with surveying, understanding and absorbing information you can apply to your communication campaigns with your own sense of style. Move beyond the mainstream media and go in pursuit of those with autonomy and liberation in their freedom of expression. They may be harvesting and experimenting with ideas that have strong magnetism when it comes to attracting attention, but are yet to be introduced into your commercial sphere.

Thou shalt communicate with ethics in mind Thou shalt not ignore social media Its presence may have been dubbed a fleeting fad, but interactive platforms like MySpace, Bebo and Twitter are firmly cemented on the social scene and show no sign of vacating the online premises. In fact, Facebook has a family of half a billion fans. Like it or not, social media has become a cost-effective strategic tool for businesses to connect with their commercial culture. So, to keep up with the professional play, why not jump on the Bebo bandwagon and learn to talk the Twitter talk? It’s likely the lingo adopted by these communities will benefit the relationships you have with your demographic culture.

28 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Thou shalt ensure consistency in thy marketing collateral and brand presence

Whatever business path you pursue, be sure to take the moral high ground on the way. When you are communicating in a competitive market saturated with comparable commodities, you may feel territorial over the sales space you are trying to inhabit, but let your conscience be your guide. Acting with integrity during promotional periods and campaigns and avoiding defamatory accusations will preserve your reputation, demonstrate a sense of professional accountability and ensure public perception of your business is favourable.

“Take an ethical view on what you do and an ethical approach to everything you do,” Jamieson says. Consult the Public Relations Institute of New Zealand website at www.prinz.org.nz for guidance in this area.

Proud to be associated with Running Bull

A good The Running Bull Bar and Grill House in Riccarton is receiving a great response following its rebranding and new menu launch. Located at the start of Riccarton Road, near the Hagley Park roundabout, The Running Bull claims to have the best steaks in Christchurch, with great prices, specials and heaps of fun for the whole family.

destination with our food and we offer great value for money with our portion sizes. If you can’t find something on the menu that you like then you’re too fussy,” he laughs.

The bar and grill is owned by Barworks Limited, which operates 14 bars throughout New Zealand. Previously named the Soho Bar and Restaurant, it was rebranded this year to reflect the new concept and direction of The Running Bull’s menu, general manager Layton Hoare says. “We didn’t really feel the Soho fitted in with the community and what we wanted to go forward with. We wanted to go with a different brand value,” he says.

Function venue

“We wanted something that was true to our food, which is a grill offering ribs and steaks.”

The Running Bull can cater for groups from 10 people to 300 and is the ideal venue for business meetings, birthdays, engagement parties, sports team dinners and family events.

Functions held until the end of August receive a free magnum of sparkling wine and a $100 food voucher.

The new menu places a big emphasis on steaks, including aged Wakanui blue beef rump, Angus Pure sirloin, ribeye on the bone, lamb and eye fillet. Meats are grilled to your liking and served with a delicious accompanying sauce, including mushroom and garlic, red wine jus, creamy green pepper, garlic butter and mint.

“Our food has changed and we’ve gone for a family friendly western grill theme but with a local flavour,” Hoare says. “We want to be a famous

The Running Bull’s menu also features a range of impressive carving boards to share, sandwiches and burgers, pizzas, quesadillas and a range of mouth-watering desserts.

“The food is outstanding and we keep getting told that our ribs are the best in town.”

The Running Bull Bar and Grill House is the ideal venue for any function.

Three function rooms offer 42-inch wall-mounted plasma TV screens with laptop plug-in capabilities, whiteboards, an on-site functions co-ordinator, heated outdoor area, fireplace and a great range of catering options available, from working lunches and buffets to set menus and cocktail canapés.

“We have something for everyone — you ‘re right at home here, no matter who you are.”

We offer a complete sign service: all sizes, all shapes, every purpose

The Running Bull Bar and Grill House 1 Riccarton Road Christchurch T (03) 348 1490 F (03) 348 1491 E admin@runningbull.co.nz www.runningbull.co.nz

Westmeat is a dynamic, quality focused meat wholesaler/retailer.

It operates throughout the South Island drawing on the processing strength of its parent company ANZCO Foods which is more commonly associated with its lamb and beef processing plants, namely Canterbury Meat Packers and Riverlands, and its cattle feedlot Five Star Beef.

The Running Bull Bar and Grill House has undertaken a number of fun events to promote its name change and rebranding. Hoare says public response has been amazing. “People have loved it and our locals feel really comfortable here.

“We’re a great destination. We’ve got 11 TVs and a drop-down big screen so we’re a great place to watch the big games with a nice cold beer.”

The Running Bull offers a range of specials, including $10 fish and chips, Wednesday quiz nights and $12 steak nights on Thursdays.

“We do fundraising for charity and sporting teams and we have bands and drinks specials on Thursday and Friday nights,” he says.

100 Carmen Road Christchurch | Ph 03 349 5078 | www.westmeat.co.nz Check out our website for an email subscription

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 29

Transport and Motoring | Test Drive: Nissan Navara ST-X

Talking the torque

By Jonathon Taylor

A wise man once said, “It’s not your brain that’s the problem — it’s the fact you listen to it which causes all the confusion”. The point (among others) he was trying to make is that entrenchment in one belief will, sooner or later, inhibit you.

Now this is the kind of statement you might understand perfectly at the time, but whose meaning isn’t revealed until you see it in yourself.

Usually these revelations take the form of seminal moments where the clouds part and a ray of sunlight springs forth, illuminating you to the, quite frankly, depressing extent of your ignorance.

Well this exact thing happened to me recently while going slowly backwards up a hill.

You see I had always been a horsepower kind of a bloke, interested only in kilowatt whammy and power to weight ratios as the true measure of any vehicle’s muscle.

A weekend in Nissan’s 2010 Navara ST-X had something to say about that and the moment of my awakening came on a devilishly dark and damp evening backing up a steep, slippery slope.

Even while casually selecting 4WD low ratio in the perfectly temperature controlled cab, there was no real belief the ST-X, commonly called the 450, would actually make it up this slope. ‘Torque shmorke’ I thought.

Then the most curious thing occurred — we started moving. Not the kind of moving where you floor it, wheels spin and without any practical traction to speak of, the laws of physics displace you. The ST-X just idled along and proceeded to make mince meat of the mountain. It didn’t slip or stall — it just ambled up backwards without batting an eyelid.

Where once I teetered precariously on the edge of ignorance’s abyss, I now see the light. I have been converted and torque is my new mantra.

This however, was where the problems began.

Because you see there is only one proper, mature and manly response to this situation —– spending the rest of the weekend looking for places to get stuck in, up to and beyond the gunwales.

And that’s easier said than done with this thing because it just happens to be the most powerful and efficient Navara ever made.

This isn’t one of those vehicles people immediately

see as perfect for pulling the boat

they don’t have to the lake they never go to. It’s a genuine workhorse that’s now, thanks to a few 2010 tweaks, more capable, finessed and refined than previous incarnations.

Truth be told, saying its been ‘tweaked’ might be a slight understatement — it’s been redesigned inside and out, has a range of added safety features and added power. So, pretty much, the only thing that’s remained the same is its name, which, well… isn’t actually the same, as its badge says 450.

In this context it’s not a number to be scoffed at, referring to the ST-Xs 450 Newton metres of torque.

The turbo charged 2.5 litre diesel delivers 140 kW and returns the Navara to the top of its class for power and torque.

If this is good, then what’s great are improvements in fuel economy (up to 15 percent over the previous model) and reduced emission levels — all with a 3000kg towing capacity.

Inside the twin cab it’s really just a big car that’s comfy, has plenty of kit and is tough. The buttons and knobs are big enough to handle wearing gloves and that’s just good thinking for a working vehicle like this.

Once inside, the first thing to do is program the bluetooth hands-free application to identify your mobile phone. In no time at all, calls to your mobile come through the sound system you can operate from the steering wheel.

Next thing to do is set the dual climate control which isolates the temperature setting for each side of the cab. Perfect if your partner’s giving you the cold shoulder — just crank up the heating on their side and inform them this is to thaw their icy heart — should work a treat.

New safety items include front, side, and curtain airbags, along with rear three-point seatbelts and child seat anchor points as standard. The ST-X also features Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) which together deliver massive traction control.

Now while modern computers, being about as smart as the average earthworm, don’t think much, what thinking they do is done quickly — and this quickness is what makes ESP and ALBS systems work so well.

For convenience, above and beyond having enough pulling power to turn the tide, you can lift the rear seat bases for extra in-cabin luggage space and set the headlights to shine for up to three minutes after exiting car. Unfortunately I never got to try this out, as I didn’t have to exit the car because I couldn’t get the damn thing stuck! What I do know is from now on, when it comes to capability, I will be talking torque.

2010 Nissan Navara ST-X Diesel Manual...................................... $59,450 Diesel Automatic ................................ $61,450 Petrol Automatic ................................. $59,950 Specs Body Style ............................ Double Cab Wellside Engine ....................... 2.5L Intercooled Turbo Diesel ........................ 4.0L Petrol V6 Power ............................ 4WD Diesel 140kW@4000 ........................... 4WD Petrol 198kW@5600 Torque ........................... 4WD Diesel 450Nm@2000 .......................... 4WD Petrol 385Nm@4000 Transmission ............ 6-Speed Manual (Diesel only) ....... 5-Speed Automatic with manual mode Fuel Economy .... 4WD Diesel Manual 8.5 L/100km .... 4WD Diesel Automatic 9.0 L/100km .... 4WD Petrol Automatic 14.0 L/100km Tow Capacity ............... 3000kg Braked Tow rating

30 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

1,6 B)3B&DQWHUEXU\ 7RGD\ LQGG

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 31 30

Transport and Motoring | Cockram Motors

Without any shadow of a doubt the shape of modern society has been moulded around the car. Our way of life is inextricably linked to the motor vehicle. For some they’re no more than a tool, for other’s they’re a hobby and for a few, they’re a passion. But no matter how you view the car, the role it has, does and will play in individual lives is undeniable.

Abundant resources, cheap oil and accelerating technologies have propelled the industry into a golden age that delivered mobility independence for all. Now while the golden era of motoring isn’t about to come to a grinding halt due to the impeding oil crunch or environmental concerns, it will have to adapt.

This transition is already under way as smart motor companies are adapting to suit the changing landscape. This means making models that suit the needs of locals — be it urban or rural. Those who ignore this changing landscape risk learning an evolutionary imperative the hard way; adapt or perish.

While there is no paradigm shift taking place, there is a distinct and specific direction that motor manufacturers ignore at their peril; the onus is now on safe, efficient vehicles. And it is a maxim Alistair Hazeldine, the charismatic dealer principal of Cockram Nissan, is well aware of. “Today’s vehicle buyer is harder to please than ever before. They are extremely safety conscious; while they never want to experience six air bags going off at once, they demand that feature, along with stability control, ABS brakes and much more.

“Failing to incorporate these features is failing to meet market demand and failing to meet market demand is failing to meet your customers needs and expectations, which is never good business acumen.”

And it’s an opinion that can be trusted because Cockram Nissan is an established resident in

Moving

Christchurch’s commercial family; it is one of the most recognisable dealerships in the city and has been at its current site more than 27 years. This kind of longevity doesn’t happen by itself, it needs to be forged and the primary tools that forge it are honesty and reliability.

Broadening market appeal

with the times

It is these very traits which have allowed the dealership to broaden its market. Cockram Nissan has recently been appointed the Kia Motors representative for vehicle sales, service and parts for Canterbury, which will synergistically operate with the Nissan dealership under the banner of Cockram Motors. “After many successful years representing the Nissan brand in Canterbury it became apparent that to ensure longevity in the market, it was prudent to broaden that market,” Hazeldine says.

Work is well under way on the brand new, purpose-built Kia showroom next to the Nissan showroom on Moorhouse Avenue and the successful framework of Cockram Nissan will allow the new dealership to be extremely cost effective. “The systems and procedures which have already proven a success with Nissan will allow us to duplicate that success with Kia, very cost effectively.

“Although Kia will have its own premises, we are able to utilise our existing parts, servicing and administration departments and upskill our existing staff.”

32 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Transport and Motoring | Cockram Motors

Be it Nissan or Kia, Cockram Motors on the corner of Manchester Street and Moorhouse Avenue has got you covered. The range includes economical sedans and hatchbacks, larger family cars, sports utility vehicles, sports cars and light commercial vehicles in both 2WD and 4WD. The privately owned dealership is well known for its range of vehicles, services and after sale support. The dealership is well regarded as the top Nissan provider in the South Island, if not New Zealand, and Hazeldine says it’s because they are a trusted name within this country.

The formula for success is simple; people want a company they can trust — one that delivers exceptional service and products at the right price. “Our team goes the extra mile every time to ensure expectations are exceeded.”

Ensuring these expectations are exceeded is not always easy, but the basic philosophy is relatively simple. Sound business principles with the consumer in mind are what works and he says with the changing economic landscape, you have to change your business practices to ensure your business continues to thrive.

Despite the economic turmoil of the past couple of years, the previous financial year was the best yet for the dealership and Hazeldine is looking ahead as optimistically as ever. The key, he says, is ensuring you have the right people and effective business practices in place. And, with the inclusion of Cockram Kia, the future of this expanding company is looking bright.

But no matter how effective a business’ systems might be, Hazeldine says attitude and culture are the glue that success often rests on, binding all the elements together. “Trust, courage, belief and passion,” are the four things he attributes his success to and he believes all good businesses and business people should possess these traits.

No matter how organised, motivated and inspired a company’s management might be,

Hazeldine believes firmly that success or failure is in no small way determined by those on the front line. He says, with more than a hint of conviction, that the staff at Cockram Motors are the most important aspect of the company and Cockram Motors goes the extra mile to ensure its staff are happy. He says although it’s not always simple, looking after your staff is a primary role and basic, good business.

This is where belief comes in, he says. “You have to have belief in yourself when it comes to ensuring you put good business practices into place and believe that you will succeed.”

Being well organised and maintaining a positive outlook, while at the same time being realistic about the future is vital, he says, no matter what external influences are prevalent. And ensuring every member of the team knows their role,

and delivers it with passion, is at the heart of Cockram Nissan’s success.

“Every person at Cockram Motors is passionate about what they do and delivering the best in automotive knowledge, products and services.

Cockram Motors is not a building,” he states.

“We are people who have passion, courage and are loyal. The ‘people’ are Cockram Motors.”

Feature continues on next page >>

Arguably one measure of how a company looks after its staff, but also of the competency of the company, is staff longevity. There’s no substitute for experience and many of Cockram Nissan’s crew have been involved with the dealership for a number of years. Not only has Hazeldine been there 30 years, the sales manager has 21 years experience, service manager 27 years and administration manager 19 years.

The parts manager, who has been with the dealership for four years, has travelled the world working for some big names including Porsche and Mercedes Benz running parts departments. “These people know their stuff and are willing to find the perfect solution for you,” Hazeldine says.

Although the recent economic wobbles have impacted a range of companies across various sectors, Hazeldine says blaming business failure on the economy alone is a cop-out, as success or failure is determined by a number of factors.

“Today, when people fail in business they are labelling it under the ‘global recession’. But it’s got nothing to do with the recession. It’s all about misdirection of management.”

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 33

Transport and Motoring | Cockram Motors New boys on the lot It’s not often five new vehicles are released in the same year, but that is exactly what Nissan did less than a year ago. While not likely to ever happen again, for any vehicle manufacturer, it has been a sign of bigger, better things to come.

For 2010, the product offering is even more exciting, dealer principal Alistair Hazeldine says, and what better way to heat up a cold winter than introducing smokin’ hot new designs which will get car lovers’ blood pumping? “We are now enjoying the enhancement of the Qashqai range with the addition of the Qashqai+2,” he says.

The Qashqai was designed to cater to those buyers who want a more dynamic design, but are not attracted to the large, aggressive nature of a sport utility vehicle.

The Qashqai+2 is a European built, seven-seater which sits on an extended chassis of the ST and Ti models. The facelift model went on sale in March this year with a completely restyled front end and LED tail lights.

“Most seven seaters in the New Zealand market are large, four wheel drive, diesel powered vehicles,” Hazeldine says.

“To have a smaller vehicle which retails for less is very refreshing, particularly at just $39,990.”

Later this year, Cockram Motors is expecting the release of a newer model of the Micra, to replace the existing model which has been in the New Zealand market for seven years.

Hazeldine says it is expected to be available in a five door hatchback and four door sedan. “We look forward to its arrival.”

Finding the perfect fit Whether you are after a sports utility vehicle, zippy sports car or a trusty family car, Cockram Motors has the perfect solution for you.

For the boys Hazeldine says guys like to get out and be active, so the perfect vehicle for the lads would have to be a Nissan Navara Double-Cab. There is enough room to chuck the boys in the back seat, the dogs and the snowboards in the deck and head out on an adventure. It comes in a number grunty turbo-diesel options but either way it is economical, trendy, robust and can take the hard knocks from the lads!

For the girls When it comes to choosing something for the ladies Hazeldine recommends something well known, reliable, convenient and trust worthy. A Nissan Tiida Hatchback is the perfect example of a slick, funky car which is perfect for town or long country drives. If you are looking for that perfect car to run around town in for a girls’ day of shopping, or taking the kids (and all their gear) to school in, the Nissan Tiida is for you.

For the family What can fit the whole family, in style and luxury and also be capable of towing the boat, caravan or trailer? The Nissan Maxima V6, the perfect family car for around town or going on a family holiday. This reliable, efficient, trustworthy vehicle is powerful enough to tow the boat, but easy enough to handle, which means both mums and dads can drive it. Plus it’s a car the kids want to be seen in!

Want to improve your Vehicle’s Suspension Performance and Road Handling?

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Proud to be associated with Cockram Nissan George Stock and Company Ltd 103 Gasson St, Sydenham, Christchurch Ph 03 366 2500 chparts@georgestock.co.nz www.georgestock.co.nz

Pleased to be associated with Cockram Nissan

PH 379 7525 8-14 Wilmer Street, Christchurch nisbits@inspire.net.nz

The leading distributor for New Zealand’s motor vehicle industry.

We Care For Your Car. 59 Newtown Street, Bromley, Christchurch P.O. Box 19 524, Woolston 8241 Tel: 03 384 2671 Fax: 03 384 4356 www.thecdg.co.nz

34 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Incorporating Car Haulaways Ltd Auckland Vehicle Deliveries Ltd Nationwide Transport Ltd

Transport and Motoring | Cockram Motors Cockram’s Korean connection Kia — it’s a name becoming ever more familiar to Kiwis. Since the brand’s arrival in New Zealand in 1996, New Zealanders have been embracing it. In fact, Kia is one of New Zealand’s fastest growing vehicle brands.

The reason for this is, like many things in life, pretty simple; Kia makes good vehicles that are available at great prices. It’s not rocket science — a bargain is a bargain.

Cockram Motors dealer principal Alistair Hazeldine, who has just acquired the Kia dealership for Canterbury, says Kia represents more than just another brand. “Kia uses the byline ‘The Power to Surprise’ and that illustrates what is happening with the rising brand.”

Kia’s strong association with Hyundai also proved a draw card. “Kia is 38 percent owned

by Hyundai and Hyundai has been in the New Zealand market for 10 years longer than the Kia, which gives us a larger base to work from. Also the brands are able to share technology and Kia’s technology is some of the very latest around.

“When we joined with Kia, we decided while we wanted to sell the vehicles, the first objective was servicing existing Kia owners.

Vehicles which are under the five year warranty must have repairs undertaken at an authorised dealership. Meeting the needs of those customers is of the utmost importance to us.”

For the Kia brand, 2005 was the turning point, Hazeldine says. “This was the year Kia introduced the global Kia Sorento, designed by the chief designer involved in the manufacture of the VW Beetle and the Audi TT.

“We are the first dealership to get this new colour scheme and host the Australasian dealerships — if we wanted something to motivate staff, what could be better than that?”

The opening of the new dealership is expected to coincide with the New Zealand release of the Sportage SUV later this year. “This is very much a long term opportunity for us and this is illustrated by how heavily we have invested in the new dealership.

“Kia is an up and coming brand globally, with excellent vehicles at affordable prices, the world is Kia’s oyster.”

Feature continues on next page >>

“With the Sorento, he incorporated the German flair with the Korean build process and the combination has created a product which is suited to the world.”

Since then the Korean brand has added the Rio and Cerato in both the sedan and Koup models. “Combined with the Sportage model, these three are as modern as anything else on the market.”

It’s a brand which has been able to maintain cost effectiveness, Hazeldine adds. “Kia is still able to produce vehicles cost effectively which is reflected in the retail price — the Koup sells at $27,990; that’s brand new, ready to drive away with a five year warranty.

BEFORE YOUR HEAD GOES ON THE BLOCK INSIST ON

“Kia is going places. While it’s still in its “infancy” in New Zealand, you only have to look at the product offering to know just how much the future holds for the brand.”

Colours showcase The new Kia dealership, which is under construction next door to the Cockram Nissan site, will be the first in the world, outside Korea, to showcase the new global dealership colours for the brand. As part of this, the new Cockram Motors dealership will host all the Australasian dealers to view the new visual scheme.

“While it’s not like we’re hosting anything the scale of the Commonwealth Games or the America’s Cup, no other dealership outside Korea can lay claim to this,” Hazeldine says.

AVAILABLE FROM

COCKRAM NISSAN 18 MANCHESTER STREET CHRISTCHURCH

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 35

Transport and Motoring | Cockram Motors

Kia’s commitment to the community An understanding of consumer needs, wants and tastes never hurt any business, but ignoring them has caused more than the odd company to crumble.

It’s a premise not lost on Kia who has adopted the philosophy that community involvement is a natural extension of corporate social responsibility as an active member of the community. “In our view, the community must be healthy in order for sustainable development to be successful,” the company says.

So in 2005, Kia Motors started a community initiative it calls ‘Moving Together with the World’. In practical terms, here in New Zealand,

this means Kia operates the Road and Traffic Education Centre (RTEC), which caters for driver safety education, driver training and community road safety initiatives.

It also supports Cure Kids, the face of the Child Health Research Foundation — an organisation established more than 30 years ago to address the lack of research into life-threatening childhood illnesses in New Zealand.

Through these and other programmes, Kia employees have volunteered their time and energy to reach out and serve the community.

It is not just a noble act, but smart thinking, because measuring success by the dollar alone is not what today’s consumer is looking for.

Environmentally friendly vehicles What today’s consumer does want from all industry sectors, is environmental awareness.

Kia’s current range of diesel powered vehicles meet the stringent Euro 4 emission standards.

This standard originated in Europe test’s vehicles on the level of emissions that they produce and rates them accordingly.

It is no easy feat to meet these standards but Kia’s significant investment in diesel technology has allowed the brand to meet these requirements. Additionally all Kia two litre diesel engines in New Zealand have particle matter filters fitted as standard.

Kia has committed a significant amount of time, money and resources into developing vehicles that will reduce their impact on the environment. Its first step was to establish four R&D directives for the Environmental Technology Research Center to head its research and eco-friendly efforts:  To develop alternative fuel vehicles and expand eco-friendly technology  To develop efficient engines, exhaust systems and transmissions that reduce gas emissions  To improve fuel economy through the application of new technology and lightweight bodies

36 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

 To increase recycling based on LCA (Life Cycle Assessment).

Improvements in fuel economy reduce climate change by saving energy and utilising energy effectively. The industrial development boom brought increased fossil fuel usage while diminishing fossil fuel reserves.

It also led to fossil fuel prices increasing and reportedly accelerated global warming. This has led to Kia’s focus on efficiently utilising limited energy.

In the effort to create an alternative fuel vehicle, Kia is currently designing mass-produced hybrid electric vehicles, which combine electric and fossil fuel powered engines. As a mid-long term strategy, Kia will focus on developing fuel cell vehicles with zero greenhouse gas emissions to replace current fossil fuel vehicles.

Of course, a vital element of any environmentally friendly programme is recycling, and Kia is actively endeavoring to develop technologies that utilise alternative resources and recycle whenever possible.

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Transport and Motoring | Test Drive: Kia Cerato Koup

Koup d’surprise

By Jonathon Taylor

The great thing about life is it just keeps coming right at you. For the most part, with experience, guile and a number of little lessons commonly called ‘the school of hard knocks’ you learn how to read life’s warning signs.

So, with deft swerves of mind, mouth and body, you can avoid taking too many shots smack on the schnoz.

However, occasionally — no matter how prepared you might think you are — the odd curve ball does connect. These tend to make an impression (usually on the forehead) and leave you picking yourself up, dusting off any residual impact debris and asking, “What the hell was that?”

What makes all this so much fun is these little lessons are just as likely to be good experiences as they are bad.

Either way, they remind you to never underestimate the power of the unexpected and that’s pretty much exactly how I felt after driving my first Kia. You see I figured I had Kias pegged based on nothing more than second hand comment. Now that was a mistake — the exact kind curve balls thrive on!

For a start the Kia Cerato Koup doesn’t look like my mind told me it should. With a hint of Holden up front and shades of Alfa Romeo GT out back, it punches above its weight beauty wise. Minimal overhang front and rear alludes to a compact and aggressive ride. And this is exactly what you get, as the handling has been tweaked to mirror its style.

The Koup is a nimble little number perfectly matched to our windy roads. What is nice is a balance has been achieved here, as it’s in no way overly firm or uncomfortable.

The power doesn’t completely blow your hair back but it was never designed to produce mind-meld type performance — this is a completely useable car designed for the realities of contemporary motoring.

Perhaps the harshest of these realities is the price of petrol, so at 7.7L per 100km (manual) the Koup’s consumption rate is utterly tolerable.

On the practicality note, there’s plenty of room all round, particularly in the boot and for a two door coupe this kind of convenience makes a difference.

The Koup comes in manual and auto, while the four door sedan is available in auto only. Both come in LX and higher spec SX versions and feature the same power unit — a two litre DOHC CVVT petrol engine.

All feature ABS brakes, electronic stability programme, duel front airbags and radio/CD/MP3 players with iPod and USB inputs. The SX deliver a higher trim spec, such as leather seats, 17” alloy wheels opposed to the LX’s 16”, power sunroof, six CD stacker and trip computer. Colour options, although a tad limited, are cool — a racing red, lime twist, ebony black and titanium silver.

What it is, is inexpensive. The LX is $27,990 and the SX $33,990. With this comes a five year/100,000km (whichever comes first) warranty programme with 24-hour roadside assistance, 12 months registration, WOF, a 1500km first service and full tank of fuel.

Simple fact is the Cerato, in either incarnation, is one cost competitive entity.

Apart from leaps in looks, handling, reliability and great gadget action, perhaps the most compelling reason for buying new and late model cars is because they are just so much safer than those old steel boxes capable of converting any human into ‘spam in a can’ at a moment’s notice.

Ceratos have front active headrests which move forwards and upwards within milliseconds of the moment of an impact to cushion the head and prevent whiplash. There are six air bags and an electronic stability program (ESP). Fact is, you’d be mad to buy a new car without an ESP system — they’re just magic and arguably the single best safety feature since the seat belt, as ESP equipped vehicles have 30 percent less fatal single vehicle crashes than those without it. Add to this anti-lock braking system, seatbelt pretensioners and reverse warning sensors and the Cerato safety credentials more than meet the mark.

But as with many things, it’s the attention to detail that make the difference — like the rear view mirror dimmer for when your getting monstered by some midnight manic who won’t dim their lights.

Basically the Koup is an honest car, delivering exactly what it ascribes to be, and maybe a little bit more. It’s a handsome, compact yet roomy sports coupe that isn’t pretending to be something it’s not.

It’s got all the equipment new cars need, is light on its feet and very cost competitive.

If you take one for a spin, just be careful, or you’ll end up dusting yourself off and asking, “what the hell was that?”

Specs

Engine type ............0L DOHC CVVT petrol Displacement (cc) .......................... 1998cc Compression ratio ............................ 10:5 Maximum power ..... 115 kW @ 6200 rpm Maximum torque ... 194 Nm @ 4300 rpm Fuel economy ...... 7.7L/100km (manual)

.... 7.9L/100km (automatic)

Co2 emissions (g/km) 183 (m), 186 (auto) Gear box ......................... 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic with sportshift Braking system ....... ventilated front discs .................................solid rear discs Overall length ........................... 4480mm Overall width ............................. 1765mm Overall height ............................ 1400mm Wheelbase .................................. 2650mm Minimum ground clearance ..... 155mm Kerb weight min/max ............... 1308kg Luggage capacity ..................... 336 litres Fuel tank capacity ...................... 52 litres www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 37

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38 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Agribusiness | News

the green belt

By Bridget Gourlay

Townies: Suits who wouldn’t know one end of a

cow from another, but are happy to complain about water issues while getting rich off the taxes from dairy exports.

Farmers: Country bumpkins who would call

a place like Timaru ‘The Big Smoke’ and constantly whinge about conditions while getting all kinds of subsidies from the Government.

There’s all kinds of stereotypes to make about rural and urban New Zealanders, but the fact is they depend on one another.

It’s true agriculture is our primary industry and has been since New Zealand was colonised. But it’s also true urban areas provide processing facilities, ports and transport infrastructure that allow the rural sector to prosper.

Since neither can operate without the other, the real question is whether there is a rural-urban divide?

Yes, says Federated Farmers vice president Donald Aubery.

And the best example of it can be illustrated with broadband — or the lack of it in rural areas.

He says FarmSafe, an information website, has the option for people to fill out a form online.

However, in the rural area, 70 percent have indicated they still require information by post.

“The reason they’re doing that is because of their inability to remain online long enough to fill out a form. FarmSafe assures us the system is as simple as possible, but even those with access to internet are struggling with the simplest of forms. They can’t book air plane tickets, or hotels, or undertake lengthy research online because of poor service.”

Access to better healthcare — like midwifery services, and better schooling, is another demand often heard from rural folk. But some would say that a decile one school in a city’s poorest suburb is ten times worse than any little country school. Or that the health services in those urban areas are equally as lacking compared to need.

Ministry of Agriculture and Fishery (MAF) research shows that in the 1880s, 60 percent of the population lived in rural areas. By the time of the 1916 census, the country’s urban population was greater than the rural one. This trend has continued, and today just 14 percent of New Zealanders live in rural areas.

Te Ara Encyclopaedia writes that a rift between townies and rural folk goes back a hundred years. In 1913, when the Wellington wharfies went on strike, the conservative government enlisted ‘special constables’, mainly farmers, to reopen the wharves. This resulted in a number of bloody street clashes. The strike highlighted a geo-political split between the city and country — when the Labour Party was founded in 1916, most of its backing was from city voters.

And until the 1960s, the conservative parties attracted more country support.

This divide escalated again during the 1981 Springbok tour. Statistically, support for the tour was strongest in country districts and opposition centred in cities.

The growth of lifestyle blocks during the 1980s created more tensions. Lifestylers complained about country noises and smells to the bemusement and irritation of local farmers.

So how to bridge this historic gap?

Donald Aubery says townies could take opportunities to visit farms. “One of the things Federated Farmers has done has been to organise an annual event called farm day — one of the best attended of the two dozen or so was at Lincoln. It was a great opportunity for people to interact directly with farming. Most people are amazed at the level of technology used on farms these days. The way in which we manage nutrients has improved markedly, initiatives for example involving Fonterra and Dairy NZ are having a big impact.”

In 2008, MAF commissioned research aimed at understanding the changing nature of rural and urban New Zealanders’ beliefs and values.

It showed that it’s actually country people who don’t understand townies.

The majority (64 percent) of urban respondents either strongly agreed or agreed that, if the rural sector was doing well, everyone living in the urban sector would be better off. Only 15 percent disagreed. In contrast, 25 percent of rural respondents agreed that, if the urban sector was doing well, people in the rural sector would be better off, while 43 percent disagreed.

MAF says there is a lack of clarity in rural places about the role of urban New Zealand. Of course, not everything done in New Zealand is strictly rural or urban.

There’s tourism and manufacturing. Huge manufacturing areas are often on city outskirts and employ a range of people who live in the city or the country. Many use country grown materials, like wood, processed and exported in city zones with city infrastructure.

Tourists are drawn to New Zealand equally for the city and the country — to walk though the woods or climb the Sky Tower, to bungy jump over rivers but to stay in a Queenstown hotel.

When all’s said and done, the fact remains our key industries could not exist without both rural and urban enterprise. Once everyone realises that, city and country folk can work together for the betterment of New Zealand.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 39

Agribusiness | McCain Foods

Leading the way McCain Foods’ Timaru plant is a state-of-the-art operation producing 10 tonnes of potato products an hour — 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

McCain Foods is arguably the most famous Canadian brand name in the world, with the company operating more than 50 food processing facilities worldwide, employing more than 20,000 people and realising annual sales in excess of $6 billion.

McCain products are sold widely into the food service and retail sectors, including restaurants, fast-food chains and supermarkets.

McCain Foods operates two plants in New Zealand. The Timaru plant manufactures potato products while the smaller Hastings plant processes vegetables and frozen dinner meals.

McCain Foods’ Timaru plant (above and facing page) is regarded as a state-of-the-art operation and an important part of the company’s Australasia portfolio. There has been significant growth in the plant since it was purchased by McCain Foods a decade ago

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As the world’s largest privately owned frozen food manufacturer, McCain’s core product is the potato. In addition to its famous French fries and potato specialties, the company also manufactures a wide range of additional frozen food products including appetizers, pizzas, desserts, juices entreés and oven meals, plus prepared and frozen vegetables.

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Agribusiness | McCain Foods

with potatoes “We’re the market leader in supplying French fries to our QSR (quick service restaurant) customers — we have more than 60 percent market share.”

Timaru operation McCain Foods Australia-New Zealand managing director Steve Yung says the Timaru plant is a state-of-the-art operation and an important part of the Australasia portfolio.

The Timaru plant has grown significantly since it was purchased by McCain Foods in 1990. Formerly operating as a small vegetable processing plant called Alpine Foods, McCain introduced a large purpose-built potato processing plant on an adjacent site in 1994, which allowed it to begin marketing potato products. A distribution warehouse was built in Timaru in 2002.

“We closed the vegetable plant a year ago and moved insert production to Hastings and now just market potato products from Timaru. We sell them domestically in New Zealand, as well as in Australia and into Asia.”

Steve Yung

McCain Foods Australia-New Zealand managing director

The largest part of the Timaru factory’s market is the food service and quick service restaurant sectors, which includes McDonald’s, Burger King and KFC. The food service market involves other restaurants, pubs, clubs and fish-and-chip outlets.

“We’re the market leader in supplying French fries to our QSR customers — we have more than 60 percent market share, which has grown steadily over the years,” Yung says.

In addition, McCain Foods’ products are sold throughout leading supermarket chains.

State-of-the-art processing plant Yung says the company’s Timaru plant is a high-tech facility. Its most recent upgrade involved improvements to its packing area, including the installation of a fully automated packing and palletising system.

“It’s a strategic plant and it’s very important to us. It’s export competitive,” he says. “New Zealand’s domestic market is fairly small. Not only do we service that but the plant was built to service the export market as well.”

McCain Foods’ Timaru plant produces 10 tonnes of finished French fries per hour. About a third are sent to Asia, with the remaining two thirds sold in New Zealand and Australia.

About 170 people are employed in Timaru, which is a 24/7 processing operation. The plant is fully certified under the American Institute of Baking, with quality control and quality

assurance personnel employed to ensure only the best quality products are manufactured.

Successful site

“The market in Australia is quite different in terms of the economic circumstances. Australia didn’t go into a recession, but has been quite adversely affected by drought.”

also houses the company’s head office), and French fry plants in Penola, South Australia, and Smithton, Tasmania.

Yung says despite New Zealand’s recent economic recession, McCain Foods’ Timaru plant has performed well in terms of its cost and quality standards. “There have been challenges, but we’ve held our own in the New Zealand operation quite well,” he says.

McCain Foods employs about 1600 people across its Australia and New Zealand operations, which includes the Timaru plant, the Hastings vegetable and frozen dinner plant, a French fry, frozen dinner and pizza plant in Ballarat (which

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Focus | Earth and Sky

Pinholes in the

curtain of night

Star light, star bright, The first star I see tonight, I wish I may, I wish I might, Have the wish I wish tonight

The child in all of us will often be reminded of this age-old poem when our eyes meet a night blanketed in luminous stars. Because while the celestial science surrounding these organic night lamps has long intrigued and fascinated the mind, stars represent more than just a ball of plasma held together by gravity.

Aside from being the engine room of creation, stars have been important to civilisations throughout the world; credited for facilitating celestial navigation and orientation, while also providing information for calendars devised to regulate agricultural practices throughout the earth’s seasons.

As an inspiration for mythological tales, it has been said the concept of a starry constellation existed as early as Babylonian times. These pattern based formations have since become the inspiration for astrology and, circa 1600, were utilised to name stars in corresponding regions of the sky.

It seems stars mean something to everyone; whether this meaning is fictional or fact. They shine light into darkness and in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand, they are the focus of Earth and Sky Limited, which, as its name suggests, has bridged a connection between the two.

Researching the stars Located in the MacKenzie Basin at the base of the Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo is star central. Home to a permanent population of less than 400 people — Lake Tekapo has a modest and quaint identity that is on the cusp of change.

Mount John, in Lake Tekapo, is a ‘Roche mouton nee’ — an asymmetrical rock shaped by the movement of ancient glaciers. It is home to the University of Canterbury’s astronomy research facility and the domes of this facility can be seen from the Tekapo township. The site was chosen for its air stability, transparency of the upper atmosphere and the uniquely dark skies in the Mackenzie Basin.

The facility was officially opened on July 10, 1965 as a joint venture between Canterbury University and the University of 44 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Pennsylvania. The four primary telescopes on the mountain are used by research astronomers and physicists from New Zealand and throughout the world.

The historic Cook Astrograph, built by JW Fecker in 1936 was the first instrument to be permanently installed at Mount John and it was commissioned to complete an all-sky photographic survey undertaken by the University of Pennsylvania.

Mount John’s large mass of bedrock attains an altitude of 1031 metres above sea level, rising approximately 300 metres above Lake Tekapo. The highest recorded New Zealand gust of wind occurred here on April 18, 1970, reaching 250 kilometres per hour or 135 knots.

Astro-tourism Earth and Sky was established in 2004 by two Lake Tekapo locals — Graeme Murray and Hide Ozawa — who wished to promote and provide astro-tourism. The company targets a broad base from young to old as well as off-shore adventurers to school and social groups who want the opportunity to explore the vast southern night sky.

“Visitors to Mount John Observatory can now have an appreciation of our own galaxy, the Milky Way and more distant galaxies beyond by using powerful telescopes.

Visitors are educated on the history of early astonomers who laid claim to discovering what we now see today from Mount John,” general manager Margaret Munro explains.

“Deep-seated in everyones’ psyches are questions about what is beyond us — it is something everyone wonders about. To have the ability to see planets, stars and other galaxies certainly satisfies this curiosity and even people who haven’t thought about this, maybe since childhood, find their curiosity rekindled after participating on a stargazing tour.”

In recognition of the importance of protecting the MacKenzie night sky, Earth and Sky is petitioning for the area to become a starlight reserve. “We find people from overseas are often awestruck at how many stars they can see and the clarity of them from Mount John. We regularly hear our visitors from the northern hemisphere telling us they can no longer see stars where they reside, which is a shame.

Focus | Earth and Sky

During summer months, Earth and Sky operates a more condensed tour at Cowan’s Hill.

“Our little glass café on top of the hill is also a big hit for the region,” Munro adds. “Visitors are really blown-away with the spectacular views from the top. On a busy day in summer we can have as many as 500-plus people on top of the mountain as well as the foot traffic from the Mount John walkways.”

The rate of expansion for Earth and Sky has been rapid. “It’s a good place to be. The interest is unstoppable and with having such a niche business it makes it easy to attract attention from travellers seeking a new experience.

“Once you have lost the night sky, you can never get it back again. This has happened to many places around the world but with Lake Tekapo this will never happen as the Mackenzie District Council has lighting ordinances in place to protect the Mount John Research Facility.”

and night tours. Next year the company will also have its first inbound tour operator out of Australia bring a specific astronomy-based tour to the region. Visitors on this excursion will spend two evenings at Mount John and also be present for a dawn tour to see a lunar eclipse.

The Earth and Sky application for a starlight reserve is before the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) with a formal working party leading the cause.

Images of the night

“In addition, we are working towards developing a Level One and Two Astronomy Course specialised to meet the curriculum requirements with the intention that schools can come to Mount John and cover the subject with a ‘handson’ approach for the students,” Munro says.

Astro-photography is now offered as an additional activity at Earth and Sky’s twilight

“By day, visitors can participate in a tour where they are taken into the Mount John research

facility and can view New Zealand’s largest research telescopes called the Microlensing Observations in Astrophysics. We explain the history of James Mackenzie and the interesting geology of Mackenzie Basin,” Munro adds.

Earth and Sky twilight and night-time stargazing tours all offer the use of telescopes and a free format tour where visitors can roam between the telescopes manned with astronomy guides.

“The company is fortunate to have a team of highly trained international guides and support staff because we can offer tours in Japanese and Mandarin languages for our guests. We have a brilliant vision for the future and it is worth watching this space.”

Earth and Sky Limited PO Box 112 Lake Tekapo 7945 T (03) 680 6960 F (03) 680 6950 E marg@earthandsky.co.nz www.newzealandsky.com — Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 45

Focus | Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce

Regional Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce looks to drive local business There’s quite the story behind Nelson Tasman, Whakatu, or ‘top of the South’ as it is often referred to. The Nelson region received its name in honour of the Admiral Horatio Nelson who defeated both the French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

In honour of this history, many of the roads and public areas in Nelson city centre are named after people and ships associated with that battle. As New Zealand’s second oldest city, Nelson was settled in 1841 and is home to the oldest secondary school in the country, Nelson College, which was established in 1856.

One of the few New Zealand cities to have its own flag, Nelson is a close neighbour to Brightwater, the birthplace of Nobel prize-winning physicist Lord Rutherford, the first to successfully split the atom.

Nelson Tasman combines a rich heritage, world class scenery, food, wine, arts and a year-round favourable climate

Judging by the region’s flourishing industries, it seems the innovative nature demonstrated

by Rutherford remains a defining characteristic in Nelson Tasman today — present in business minds and regional mentality.

It’s likely the survival of this trait comes down to the intergenerational families in this region, who share these qualities and are committed to helping Nelson Tasman fulfil its potential. At the head of this campaign is an organisation that has been a driving force behind Nelson Tasman’s evolution and productivity — the Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce.

Gateway to great outdoors

Two takes on the Nelson waterfront which services a multiude of needs including those of industry (top) as an export and import centre, and as a tourism destination and source of family fun

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As the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, Kahurangi National Park, and Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa in the Nelson Lakes National Park, Nelson lies on the shore of Tasman Bay and is New Zealand’s 10th most populous city.

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forces With 2600 air seats in and out of Nelson every week-day, this city is the location where New Zealanders first played rugby. As the founder of the World of Wearable Arts, Nelson is also home to the oldest yacht club in New Zealand, a centre of excellence — the Cawthron Research Institute, and 22 wineries which flourish in the mild, Mediterranean-like climate.

Nelson Tasman’s attractive characteristics are best summarised by the Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce chief executive Dot Kettle who says it is the “combination of rich heritage, world class scenery, food, wine and arts and a year-round favourable climate,” that draws people in to sample these surroundings.

“Nelson Tasman is a significant exporter, a food bowl for our country and hosts a growing number of innovative entrepreneurs and artists. Our contribution is economic as well as knowledge based and cultural,” she adds.

With an annual GDP of $3.2 billion, the four major drivers of Nelson’s economy are farming (horticultural and pastoral), seafood, forestry and tourism. Thirty percent of Nelson’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is fed by these industries, which in turn are fed by the region’s complementary climate.

Nelson’s latitudinal location means the region regularly tops the national statistics for sunshine hours, with the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research recording an annual average total of more than 2400 sunshine hours.

It is these factors that have made Nelson and the wider Tasman district so resilient throughout the economic turmoil of the past two years.

“Nelson Tasman has come through the last couple of challenging years very well compared to some other cities here and around the world,” Kettle confirms. “We have strong diversity, which means our economy is not reliant on any one

Focus | Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce

sector. If one sector is not achieving, another sector will support our economic vitality.

“People who have been in business for a long time are proud about, and protective of, Nelson Tasman and work to preserve its strong environmental reputation. They are committed to investing in the region and riding out the peaks and troughs,” Kettle says.

Significant input Co-ordinating seminars, forums, workshops, networking functions and offering expert advice through its free Biz Info Service, the Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce has also played a significant role in the region’s growth and development. Membership is non-exclusive and available to companies from every sector including agricultural, hospitality, communications, retail, government and construction. “The chamber plays a key role in maintaining business vitality. We offer a strong and positive voice for businesses and work with the local and central government to help Nelson Tasman be the best it can be,” Kettle says.

“We work with members so they can achieve their goals and adapt to new, emerging and changing markets. The chamber plays a pivotal role in promoting and celebrating success.”

In its 2009 annual review, the chamber reported membership had grown from 430 members to 490, with 42 chamber members sole traders or two-person businesses.

“Our regular networking functions provide members with the opportunity to build business connections and share experience and expertise.

The Nelson Tasman Chamber also works closely with other key stakeholders to make the Nelson Tasman region the best possible place to do business,” Kettle says.

Feature continues on next page >>

Nelson’s rich heritage makes it an attractive choice for locals and tourists alike

Wind riders assemble near Split Apple Rock, an iconic spot in Abel Tasman National Park

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 47

Focus | Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce

12 top tips for business success The Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce endorses top 12 tips for business success, in recognition of the ideas of Doctor Ian Brooks — the keynote speaker at the 2009 Nelson Mail Top Shop Awards.

 Understand customers are your business Your profit and the money to run your business and pay your staff comes from your customers.

Without them you have nothing.  Become a farmer, not a hunter Your best customer is the one you’ve already got. Understand their lifetime value and aim to get all that business.  Focus on creating superior customer value Make sure the benefits your customers get from you are greater than the costs they pay.  Be fast and easy to do business with Time and effort are bigger costs to customers than the price.  Aim to create an inspirational experience Make sure your customers are so impressed they want to tell others how great you are.  Walk in your customers’ shoes Ask yourself, ‘if I was the customer what would I like to hear or see happen?’

 Show you care Companies and people not caring is the biggest cause of bad customer experiences.  Have a can-do, will-do attitude Think of what you can do for your customers, not what you cannot do. Then do it.  Treat customers politely and with respect Customers want to be greeted, hear please and thank you and to be spoken to with respect.  Solve your customers problems Customers want solutions, not explanations or excuses — just results.  Go the extra mile Delight your customers by looking for problems they would like you to solve but cannot reasonably expect you will be able to — and then solve them.  Learn from your customers They will tell you everything you need to know.

Listen to what their compliments, complaints, questions and suggestions say about your business.

Events organised by the chamber in association with Port Nelson and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise have included the Exporters Breakfast Series, which Kettle says has helped businesses build trade relationships and share experience and expertise in developing export markets.

Nelson will be hosting Italy during the Rugby World Cup (RWC) 2011. “It’s not just about the hype during the tournament, it’s about the legacy of the event, promoting Nelson domestically and on the world stage. Businesses can utilise this opportunity to connect with others chambers throughout the world,” Kettle says.

“The chamber strongly supports council investment in the development of a convention centre. Having a convention centre will bring economic benefits to the region and it is a vital piece of infrastructure that needs completion as a priority if, as a region, we are to attract and retain an adequate share of the profitable conference market,” Kettle says.

In honour of hosting status, The Long Lunch in August 2009 was arranged to mark two years until the arrival of the RWC. A sell-out event, the al fresco Italian themed dining experience was spearheaded by the chamber in conjunction with associate businesses. Held in Trafalgar Square, tables decorated in Italian colours were set up in the middle of the street from Selwyn Place to Bridge Street.

“Conference delegates are the highest per day spenders of all visitors, spending an average of $400 a day and usually in the off season.

Nelson is ideally placed to secure a share of that conference market due to our excellent winter weather, fantastic airport and great attractions for delegates’ partners. The lack of a purposebuilt convention centre means our region is missing out on that potential.”

In November 2009, in keeping with its commitment to recognising business achievement, the chamber voiced its support of the Nelson Centre of Service Excellence Staff Recognition Programme.

With strong initiatives on the horizon and a committed team of business minds and chamber leaders ready to pursue and achieve these goals, Nelson Tasman will undoubtedly continue to embody the same innovative and ambitious nature it is renowned for.

“The Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce believes that many businesses are delivering exceptional service every time and that is why we are backing this programme. The chamber will be actively involved in recognising those businesses and calls on all businesses to accept this challenge,” Kettle said at the time.

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The chamber has also lent its support to another business recognition initiative, which launched in June 2009 — The Nelson Mail Top Shop Challenge. The chamber itself has been running Top Shop for more than 20 years.

The Top Shop organising committee is made up of representatives from the Nelson Mail, Radio Network, Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce, Nelson Centre for Service Excellence, Uniquely Nelson, Richmond Unlimited and Our Town Motueka.

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Moving forward, the chamber is offering support to the Nelson City Council’s proposal for the establishment of a purpose built convention centre, which will be an investment in Nelson businesses and the region’s future.

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Focus | Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology

work of art in wood

Intellectual curiosity is a defining characteristic of the human condition. It drives our pursuit for knowledge and motivates our interaction with the world around us.

To satisfy their own intellectual curiosity, the forefathers of Nelson Marlborough sought out an environment in which educational and vocational training was available for their people. New to the land of the long white cloud, these pioneers laid the educational foundations for what is today Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT).

A long-standing institution of creative and academic learning, NMIT is securing a future for the creative and inquisitive minds of local and international cultures through a multi-million dollar revitalisation of its arts and media facility.

The new facility, which emerged from a sustainable and environmentally sensitive concept, is being brought to life with design services and resources that have been sourced

50 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

within 100 kilometre radius of Nelson city. As the largest ever single investment in arts in the top of the South Island, the building will be a first in commercial multi-storey wood construction, featuring a new generation of earthquake resistance engineering technology and unique laminated veneer lumber (LVL).

Developing the concept The NMIT arts and media building project was the response to a long-standing need for a new facility. In 1989, a building proposal and plans were prepared for the establishment of a new building adjacent to Albion Square, which would incorporate and preserve elements of the 1906 historic building. In 2000, another plan for an arts facility off Alton Street was under consideration, but in both cases, these plans never came to fruition.

In 2006, a repeated call for action was the catalyst for a new arts and media building.

A review conducted at the time highlighted the need for a significant improvement of the existing facilities, revealing the multi-location arts and media departments were impacting the quality of the curriculum and limiting the

technological and creative requirements of arts and media students.

The vision was to create a cohesive building that would be an amalgamation of the arts and media subjects. In 2007, the board of NMIT approved the capital expenditure requirement to develop this purpose built arts and media establishment that was to be built alongside the new tourism and hospitality building.

“We are extremely keen to make sure this development provides access to, and experience of, the wide variety of genre that exist at NMIT, in the region’s schools and in the workshops and galleries in the region,” NMIT chief executive Tony Gray said at the time. “It would be our intention that over the next few years the school becomes synonymous with quality education and performances and exhibitions that show off the immense talent in our region.”

In July 2008, the government announced NMIT would receive a capital injection of $8.1 million for this development. Speaking at NMIT’s campus, former Prime Minister Helen Clark said the new building would accommodate new programmes in arts and media.

Focus | Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology

Images for this feature supplied courtesy of David James of NMIT and Arrow International

plan manage build Arrow International Your Project Delivery Partner

• Strategic Planning • Development Planning a design concept that would reflect the needs of the arts and media provision and delivery.

“These programmes extend the range of study options in visual arts and media and will include Toi Maori, design, music, digital media, audio engineering, creative writing and most recently aspects of drama and performance,” Clark said.

“This project is part of NMIT’s long term vision to modernise its Nelson campus. Although this new block is primarily for arts and media, the focus is on providing flexible-use buildings which can be used for a range of different activities and programmes. It will also provide an entrance to NMIT.” A principal sponsor for the finished building was later announced as the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ). Senior partner for BNZ partners, Stephen Paul commented that this commitment represented the first time BNZ had invested in the arts or arts-education in the Nelson Marlborough region.

“The BNZ NMIT arts and media building is a much needed facility for Nelson. This cuttingedge facility will help put NMIT and Nelson on the map and will celebrate and showcase our region’s arts and create a sense of pride in our region,” Paul says. “BNZ is committed to helping New Zealanders and students succeed. Our involvement as principal sponsor of the NMIT arts and media building supports NMIT to provide a state-of-the-art facility to help this happen.”

Gray acknowledged the BNZ’s involvement, commenting, “We’re very appreciative of BNZ’s support as it shows that they, like NMIT, believe this building has the potential to be not only a catalyst for student learning, but it will also be of significant importance and benefit to the diverse arts and media community and the general public in the top of the south.”

In 2008, discussions were held between NMIT senior managers and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF). The objective was to devise

In partnership, MAF and NMIT offered a national design competition to engage the creative intellect and skills of external parties. The competition stipulation was that the building must be sustainable, local and substantially made of wood. MAF committed $1 million towards construction costs as the prize and was eager to support this establishment, as it aligned with its initiatives on climate change mitigation and creating a sustainable resource for commercial building construction that benefits the climate and New Zealand’s wider economy.

MAF research has tested and proven that wood buildings store carbon emissions and timber is a sustainable, renewable and locally available resource that requires less energy to manufacture than other building materials such as concrete and steel.

At present, there are few wooden commercial buildings in New Zealand. This project was therefore considered a teaching tool, not only in its end use but also for its construction. It offers the opportunity for engineers, architects, builders and associated training providers to observe and assess construction processes.

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Irving Smith Jack Architects Limited and a multidisciplinary engineering firm, Aurecon won the design competition amidst strong competition.

Feature continues on next page >>

NMIT arts and media facility Fact File

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 Irving Smith Jack Architects Limited and multi-disciplinary engineering firm Aurecon won the design competition for the new NMIT arts and media building  BNZ is the major sponsor of the new facility  This development is the largest ever single investment in the arts in the top of the South Island  Design services and resources utilised have been sourced within 100 kilometres of Nelson  The building will be a first in commercial multi-storey wood construction, featuring a new generation of earthquake resistance engineering technology and unique laminated veneer lumber (LVL)  Completion is due December 2010 and ready for occupation by NMIT staff and students by February 2011.

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Focus | Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology Judges commented the solution presented by this collective met the specific needs of NMIT as a creative learning institution. The intent to utilise state-of-the-art structural timber technology in conjunction with local produced materials including Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) and a design that embodied all the internal structural components, secured the contract for Aurecon and Irving Smith Jack Architects.

Building a future The objective was to build a facility that could accommodate all the arts and media disciplines in one building, where they have previously been scattered across the campus. It was agreed the new development needed to house the diverse and sometimes conflicting requirements of the different arts activities.

NMIT historical timeline  1904 — Nelson Technical Institute established as part of Wellington Technical College (established 1891)  1930 — Merged with Nelson College  1964 — Technical College opened and operated by Nelson College Council of Governors  1971 — Nelson Polytechnic established as a separate entity  1993 — Marlborough Campus opened  1995— Richmond Campus opened  2000 — Review and change to Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology.

The space needed to provide quiet places as well as places where lots of noise can be made.

Dust-free and dust friendly spaces were also required, as well as environments which provide both spacial restrictions and complete autonomy for movement and interaction.

Natural light and ventilation have been confirmed as a must have for the building, as well as contemporary digital equipment necessary for the arts and media practises including music editing and relevant software.

The completed music and arts building will also host workshops with a range of technical equipment and specific facilities for handling unique processes, materials and substances.

In 2009 the project partner and supplies were confirmed for the development, with a large local presence in this collective. Trees were then sourced within a 100 kilometre radius for the project and manufactured into LVL at Nelson Pine Industries Ltd in Richmond. Nelson Pine LVL sales manager Andrew van Houtte explains, “LVL is an effective material because you can get it in long lengths and large section sizes. It is made from radiata pine and when laminated it increases the strength of the material making it ideal for structures. It has a higher strength to weight ratio than steel and a low mass.”

collaborative approach to our project and construction management, which is vital to ensure the client’s objectives are realised. This has been critical in regard to this particular project, given the prototype nature of the design and build.

“We have led a dedicated and skilful team of consultants who have strived with us at every turn to achieve these client objectives. It is also exciting to see the international attention, from as far afield as Australia, Japan and Chile, as this is a clear signal the project is at the leading edge of this technology,” Kelso adds. has been designed so that upon completion, timber components will remain visible to showcase the innovative design approach, allowing the building to act as an exemplar for both the design and building industries.

Aurecon structural engineers have completed a world first timber seismic design for this project.

Using pairs of rocking timber walls joined with energy dissipators, the structure is able to absorb seismic energy and reduce building damage during an earthquake. This is a new generation of seismic engineering known as damage avoidance design.

Leading architect Andrew Irving says the idea behind the competition entry was that the building should become an industry leading example. “We wanted certain components to remain visible so the technology can be used and repeated again. Although the structure looks simple, it belies how much work and development has actually gone into the design.”

Irving Smith Jack Architects have designed the building to highlight its timber construction. It

In keeping with the sustainable approach to construction, a series of design innovations

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For more information on the NMIT arts and media building visit www.nmit.ac.nz/schools/ artsmedia/artsandmediabuilding Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology PO Box 19 Nelson 7042 T (03) 546 9175 F (03) 546 2440 E martin.vanner@nmit.ac.nz www.nmit.ac.nz — Advertising Feature

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In keeping with the creative energy of the building, space has been allocated for 12 panels of art works on the safety fence facing Nile Street. The artworks will stay up for the duration of the project. The opportunity to contribute designs was extended to schools, community groups, arts and media staff and students.

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Focus | Air Nelson

Fleet forward expansion The multi-million dollar redevelopment of Nelson Airport is set to allow Air Nelson to better accommodate its fleet of new aircraft.

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Focus | Air Nelson Air Nelson is a wholly owned subsidiary of Air New Zealand, operating under the Air New Zealand brand. As a turboprop aircraft operation linking New Zealand’s regional ports to main centres, Air Nelson and its sister link airlines, Mount Cook Airline and Eagle Airways, carry more than 50 percent of Air New Zealand’s total domestic customer load.

Air Nelson technical manager Rob Burdekin says plans for the redevelopment of Nelson Airport began more than two years ago, following the growth in the airline’s fleet in 2005. “The initial planning started in February 2008, with construction work beginning nine months ago.”

The development has been done in conjunction with Nelson Airport Limited, with Air Nelson funding a multi-million dollar construction of a new hangar. “It’s all about our growth as an airline. Five years ago we started introducing our new fleet of 23 Bombardier Q300 aircraft,” Burdekin says.

“We upgraded our fleet from a fleet of 17 Saab 340As, which were a 33-seat aircraft. We replaced them with the Bombardier Q300s, which are 50 seaters. As they are bigger aircraft they take up more space and our current hangar was struggling to handle the capacity.”

While the existing hangar at Nelson Airport is owned by Nelson Airport Ltd, the new hangar is owned exclusively by Air Nelson.

“This is about the extension and the ability to handle our current fleet, but also to look at what our future needs might be and how we can grow the business.”

The new hangar is 60m by 80m and will be able to hold five of the Q300 aircraft. Air Nelson is also renovating the existing hangar to include additional workshops.

“Some of the office space in the existing hangar is being removed to make more hangar space,” Burdekin says.

The Nelson Airport redevelopment is nearing completion in time for the expansion of its heavy maintenance contracts.

“We currently look after an aircraft from Rarotonga… we’ve already had some additional interest from offshore airlines for heavy maintenance work… we’re trying to grow our business and bring more work to the Nelson region.”

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“Our airline operations centre is located in the western wing of the existing hangar and that’s going to be completely refurbished. We’re building a new store on the side of the hangar to handle all our spare parts. The Nelson Airport company is also building a new office block, which will be located between the two hangars.

Previously all our office staff were in various locations across the existing hangar, but we’ve decided to bring them all together.”

Air Nelson technical manager

The airport company built the new office block and is leasing it back to Air Nelson, which has done the fit-out.

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Focus | Air Nelson

Air Nelson’s first Bombardier Q300 arrived on July 28, 2005 and went into service on August 15.

On average a new Bombardier joined the fleet every six weeks, completing the process within two years.

Project completion “It’s a multi-stage project and the design and build of the new hangar is our part of the project,” Burdekin says. “Stage one and two will open on August 14, with works on the new hangar and office block completed in early July. The third stage, being the renovation of the old hangar and offices, will run through until February 2011 and involves the hangar refurbishment. That hasn’t started yet and will be going out to tender soon.”

Mainzeal Construction built the new hangar.

Heavy maintenance contracts The redevelopment of Nelson Airport is nearing completion in time for the expansion of its heavy maintenance contracts.

Nelson Airport Ltd chief executive Kaye McNabb says a large part of the business that takes place at the airport involves aircraft engineering and maintenance work. “Because we’re a regional airport we’re fortunate to have Air Nelson based here and they’ve been carrying out their engineering work here for some years.”

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Nelson Airport is one of New Zealand’s main centres for aviation maintenance, with a particular focus being the Nelson Aviation Cluster (NAC). The cluster is the single biggest cluster of aviation services in Australasia, with everything from aircraft maintenance and specialist welding to interior design and fit-out all available in Nelson.

“We currently look after an aircraft from Rarotonga, which is down here at the moment.

We’ve already had some additional interest from offshore airlines for heavy maintenance work. One of the things we’ve kept in mind is that we’re trying to grow our business and bring more work to the Nelson region.”

The NAC has a proven record in all aviation services, both fixed-wing and rotor, for private, corporate and commercial fleets.

NAC members include Air Nelson, HNZ, National Aircraft Interiors, Repaircraft, Helicare Ltd and Specialist Welding Service, which provide services of an international standard to aviation customers throughout the world.

McNabb agrees that the ATR contract has come about as a direct result of the improved facilities at Nelson Airport. “We also have Helicopters NZ’s international headquarters based here, along with a large maintenance facility. We have some significantly skilled aircraft maintenance operators who do everything from upholstery and windscreens to major engineering overhauls and repaints,” McNabb says.

McNabb says Nelson Airport Ltd is continuing to look for opportunities to grow its maintenance sector. “We’ve recently extended one of our airside roads to provide eight more airside sites, and three of those have been taken up already.

Two of the new facilities have been completed and one is nearly completed,” she says.

“Our maintenance work has grown significantly.

This expansion is very good for the airport and the region and having Air Nelson and its engineering facilities based here is an important foundation stone in that.”

“They involve medium-sized hangars. We’re looking to continually develop in that area.”

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Tetrad Design Group congratulate Air Nelson and Mainzeal on the construction of the new Hangar and support facilities at Nelson Airport

Nelson Aviation Cluster

Cook ATR fleet, which begins in January. “This work is coming out of Christchurch and is going to Nelson. Having the redeveloped facility and the new Air Nelson hangar has helped us successfully bid for this work. The new facility gives us the opportunity to bring more aircraft in from around the country and offshore,” he says.

•

Planks

Phone (03) 548 5254

Falsework •

Fax (03) 548 6360

Pr o u d t o b e a s s o c i a t e d w i t h t h e A i r N e l s o n A i r p o r t U p g r a d e

TELTRAC C O M M U N I C A T I O N S

D A T A ,

teltrac.co.nz

V O I C E

&

S E C U R I T Y

03 348 8641

sales@teltrac.co.nz

S Y S T E M S

Focus | Air Nelson

Air Nelson’s new hangar is part of a huge redevelopment of Nelson Airport Air Nelson history Air Nelson grew out of a flying school formed in 1976 to become New Zealand’s largest domestic airline today.

The flying school was started in 1976 by Robert Inglis and Nicki Smith, who later developed charter operations.

Scheduled services followed, with the first scheduled service in 1984 using a Piper Aztec aircraft between Motueka and Wellington. Over the next couple of years the network grew to include Nelson, Wellington and Palmerston North routes using additional Piper Chieftains under the name of Motueka Air. The name Air Nelson was adopted in 1988.

There were significant changes to the industry at this time with aviation deregulation creating an over supply of operators. This led to a commercial contract between Eagle Airways and Air Nelson, which rationalised and fed each other’s routes under a joint reservations system and interline agreement, creating a true regional operation.

In October 1988 Air New Zealand purchased 50 percent of Air Nelson to secure a regional feed into its domestic operation.

The first of the Metroliners was purchased to replace the Friendship aircraft and provide an increased frequency of service on the South Island routes operated by Air New Zealand.

After the total withdrawal of all Air New Zealand Friendship operations in 1990, Air Nelson grew rapidly. Further Metros and four Saab 340s were introduced to cover provincial routes and as a link to main centres.

The Air New Zealand “Link” brand name was introduced to compliment the Air New Zealand “National” brand as a domestic operation.

Other regional operators, Eagle Airways and Mount Cook Airline, were also brought in under the brand. In 1995 Air New Zealand purchased Air Nelson outright and made it a wholly owned subsidiary of the company.

Air Nelson, Eagle Airways, Mount Cook and Air New Zealand National were all brought together under the umbrella of Domestic Airline Group to provide a seamless service to its customers.

During this period the decision was made that each of the Link carriers would specialise in a specific aircraft niche based on size, and Air Nelson was identified as the option for the operation of 30-seat aircraft.

Customer work with Air Rarotonga started in 1997. At this time Air Nelson focused on gaining external work in flight training and engineering for Saab operators offshore, including Air Rarotonga, with whom it continues to have a good working relationship today.

Restructuring and growth By the end of 2003 Air Nelson had a fleet of 17 Saab aircraft and expanded the utilisation of its fleet by 20 percent, to be the world leader in Saab utilisation. As a result of these and other efficiencies, the business improvement targets were realised and a business case lodged in mid-2004 to propose a replacement option.

In October 2004, Air New Zealand’s board approved a fleet replacement deal for Air Nelson valued at $350 million, with the signing of an agreement with Bombardier Aerospace to acquire 17 new Bombardier Q300 turbo-prop aircraft (with 50-seat capacity) replacing the current fleet of 17 Saab 340A aircraft (with 30-seat capacity).

The delivery of the first new Bombardier Q300 aircraft to Air Nelson arrived in Nelson on July 28, 2005 and went into service on August 15.

On average a new Bombardier joined the fleet every six weeks, completing the process within two years.

In August 2006 the major regional competitor ceased operations. This allowed the opportunity for further growth as it allowed the company to look at opening up new markets.

These days Nelson Airport averages 90 aircraft movements every day, with a plane taking off

The new hangar can hold up to five of Air Nelson’s new Bombardier Q300 aircraft or landing every 4.5 minutes during scheduled hours. About 1.2 million people use the Nelson Airport terminal every year, with almost 50 percent of travellers passing through the airport being business people.

The airport is home to 17 aeronautical and support industries and contributes to the economic wellbeing of the regions it serves.

Nelson Airport has restricted International Airport status. This was obtained in 2006 in particular to facilitate small private jets.

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Qualified Master Painter (over 25 years experience) • Industrial & Protective Coatings • Residential/Commercial & Industrial painters • Swimming pool re-painting specialists • Airless spraying • Decorative finishes We would like to wish Air Nelson • Wall papering every success with their new hanger.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 57

Focus | Langs Natural Stone

A reputation built in

Since then the company has developed a prestigious reputation for producing stonework of a consistently high standard for use in a wide range of settings.

No job is too big, too small or too challenging for this highly skilled team, capable of handling anything from interesting feature walls, outstanding stone fireplaces, specialised stone landscaping and retaining walls, to commercial and retail outlets, subdivisions, parks and other public areas.

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THE CATERING BOX – made to order including a choice of • Club Sandwiches • Mini Quiche • Bacon & Egg Slices • Mini Croissants • Mini Muffins • Asparagus Rolls • Lamingtons & Slices We also cater for your home, work or event.

Large or small-made to order • Work Shouts • Corporate • Parties • Outings

Pleased to be associated with Langs Natural Stone

Order by phone or visit Halswell Halswell Shopping Centre Phone 322 4600 Lincoln The Lincoln Vale 19 Gerald Street Phone 325 3495 Cashmere 8 Colombo Street Phone 337 0403

Rothbury Insurance Brokers are proud to support Langs Natural Stone

“Quality is a big thing for us and our reputation reflects that,” Mr Lang says.

“My team have been with me for a long time and they are all reliable and dedicated to their craft.”

As with all businesses in today’s world, effective communication, both internally and externally, is a key to success and Mr Lang attributes the excellent working relationship, both with clients and within the team, as a crucial component in the success of the business.

Versatility is another key element and again all the bases are covered.

The Langs Natural Stone team has the expertise and confidence in working with the many varieties of stone available, including volcanic stone, schist, harradine, Timaru blue stone and riverstone, all of which can be laid in many different styles to achieve their own unique look.

timaru

schist volcanic

“We pride ourselves on always ensuring only the very best quality materials are used, sourcing its stone from a select number of quarries throughout the South Island. Every riverstone is hand selected, depending on the type of job we’re going to do.”

Although this can be a difficult and timeconsuming task, it is an essential ingredient in achieving the correct final affect. “Our focus is in always on providing our clients with a professional service and always achieving the desired results.”

Materials supply is another aspect that needs to run smoothly and the friendly, long-term involvement with suppliers means materials are readily available — even when certain stone types may be difficult to obtain.

harradine

Langs Natural Stone was formed in 2000 by owner Martin Lang, who saw an opening in the market for a specialist stonemason service.

blue stone

riverstone

One of the inevitable outcomes from running a company professionally and hence, successfully, is that it grows. And this is exactly what has occurred to Langs Natural Stone since its formation 10 years ago. “We’ve grown considerably and I am passionate about what I do and in doing the very best job possible for each and every client.”

While the company is Christchurch based, the team has completed jobs across the east coast of Australia and throughout New Zealand — a compliment to its reputation both nationally and internationally.

We are proud to be associated with the team at Langs Natural Stone as their accounting and business advisors...

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INSURANCE BROKERS SINCE 1950

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PHONE. 03 384 1928 | FAX. 03 384 3969 | MOBILE. 027 431 3038

Focus | Langs Natural Stone

As you’d imagine, a professional attitude and attention to every detail will reap rewards — one being that Langs Natural Stone gains a lot of work through repeat business and referrals.

“When we started things were very different and people only thought of stone in terms of complete houses. Then architects started introducing stonework into their designs more and more by way of a feature wall or feature entranceway and it opened up the market considerably. Trends tend to shift between different types of stone, with split riverstone proving particularly popular at the moment.”

The reason for this popularity is stonemasonry is gaining wider recognition for being the art that it is. And its popularity continues to grow as today’s architecture complements it beautifully.

Landscapers, homeowners and designers are including it in many varied, exciting and new ways. It is here where Martin Lang can again come to the aid of any client. With his knowledge of and flair for stone design, he is happy to pass suggestions and ideas onto clients should they be unsure of exactly what look they want to achieve.

“I’m very hands-on and spend a lot of time trying to understand what the owners want.

I take it very personally. One of the things I always say to them is ‘take your time and have a look’. I give them all the options.”

Huge range of projects Langs Natural Stone (NZ) Limited has undertaken many projects that are substantial in size and have become identifiable stone focal points around the country.

A few of these significant projects include the Speight’s Ale Houses in Bealey Avenue and Ferrymead, Hanmer’s Monteith’s Bar and the entrance way to various subdivisions such as the Styx Mill Country Club. Retail projects include a large number of Rodd and Gunn and Hush Puppies stores throughout New Zealand and the Australian east coast.

“We’ve just finished a big house in Fendalton, which involved laying schist and we’ve done some major volcanic stone and riverstone work up Dyers Pass Road,” Mr Lang says.

Another job that has brought a great deal of praise and recognition was a large and prestigious project up Whitewash Heads Road in Sumner.

“A client whose home we are presently working on informed us that her Auckland-based interior designer drew particular attention to our stonework and said it was the best he had seen!

It’s always nice to hear these things… and it keeps you on your toes too!”

Like many companies, Langs took a few financial knocks during the recent tough economic times, but the company survived and this, Mr Lang says, is in no small way due to the reputation formed during the previous 10 years. “I believe, this is mainly due to our honesty and the dependable reputation we have acquired over the years through our approach to the industry and our clients.”

Langs Natural Stone works closely with architects, builders, designers, landscapers and homeowners, acknowledging the importance

of maintaining constant communication on all projects. “If there are budget limitations, I will discuss ways in which this can be reduced, maybe by just changing the type of stone we use. There isn’t much that isn’t achievable one way or another,” he says. Langs Natural Stone also offers free confidential quotes to help customers achieve their individual requirements within their budget.

Martin believes his company offers the highest quality stonemasonry service available in Christchurch. “I would like to think we are an honourable company that is offering reliable good service, quality workmanship and the very best value for money. A truly professional team.”

Langs Natural Stone (NZ) Limited PO Box 21012 Christchurch T (027) 499 9623 E langsnaturalstone@xtra.co.nz www.langsnaturalstone.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Brian Dixon Building Registered

Looking down the track, the company recently confirmed work on a large, new subdivision construction in Kaiapoi.

Master

Builder

Housing & Renovations of Distinction We have enjoyed working with Martin & his team.

Their workmanship has always enhanced our projects

New Housing | Renovations | Alterations & Additions | Award Winning Quality

Suppliers and exporters of quality natural stone for building and paving Proud to be associated with Lang’s Natural Stone

Pleased to be associated with Langs Natural Stone 5 Parkham Drive, Christchurch | P. 357 2134 | F. 357 2184 M. 027 4310 395 | E. bddixon@inet.nz

23 Brighton Road, Green Island, Dunedin P: (03) 488 3499 • F: (03) 488 2137

Ground & Wall Sawing | Soff Cutting | Decorative Cutting | Core Drilling Grinding & Polishing | Breaking & Removal | Excavation

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 59

Master Joiner Awards | Modernage Kitchens & Joinery

Fabricating dreams

Master JoineritAchwean’

rd s

- 2009 ‘Be st K a w a rd

th e - 2009 ‘Be st inry Re gion’ Ca n te rbu e’ Aw a rd - 2010 ‘Su p re m

www.hafele.com Hafele are pleased to be associated with Modernage Kitchens & Joinery Ltd

[5 Wigram Close • Sockburn • Christchurch • 03 343 8200] [16 Accent Drive • East Tamaki • Auckland • 09 274 2040] [20 Beaumont Street • St Mary’s Bay • Auckland • 09 274 2530] [The Wool Store • Level 1 • 262 Thorndon Quay • Wellington • 04 472 0294]

Searells - helping you maximise your results

FINDING SOLUTIONS

Granite l Marble l Quartz

What does Modernage Joinery do?

“Modernage Joinery is a one-stop shop.

We tell our customers we will take your dream designs and fabricate it into reality. We are a well-established supplier of joinery to architects, designers, businesses and individuals.

“Our CNC machining ability enables us to provide decorative panelling for both residential and commercial projects. Our team is flexible and we listen to our customers’ requirements. That’s how we provide quality service and products.

Searells and Modernage Kitchens & Joinery Ltd have worked together for more than 20 years and we congratulate our valued client on their successes in the 2010 Master Joiner Awards.

Searells are experts in • Growth solutions • Business Valuations • Tax Management and Compliance • Restructuring and Succession Planning • All business and personal accounting needs

Modernage Kitchens and Joinery was started 22 years ago by Grant Woodham in his home garage. Today the company has won numerous awards and has grown enough to employ six staff members. Woodham looks back on the success over the years.

Level 1 148 Victoria Street Christchurch 8013 Ph 366 7502 | Fax 379 3636 www.searells.co.nz Initial enquiries • Sharon Wedlock • Richard Sissons • Peter Curnow

“We work closely with designers to create joinery solutions and are always working with new products and new designs. Although Modern Age Joinery specialises in designer joinery, we cater competitively for all budgets.

“If you are curious to look at some of our work come out to our office in Sydenham.

Our display room has just been completed, and it showcases brilliantly a lot of the features and products we use. Otherwise please visit our website, it’s like having a showroom in your living room, there are numerous quality photographs. Just click on ‘Gallery’.”

Which areas do you service?

“Our client base covers the South Island — anywhere from Nelson to the Bluff. We’ve done work on the West Coast and in Twizel.”

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Benchtops l Vanities l Hearths Congratulations to Grant, Graham and the team at Modernage Kitchens & Joinery Ltd on their success.

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info@artisanstone.co.nz www.artisanstone.co.nz

60 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Unit 1 / 26 Parkhouse Road PO Box 16252, Christchurch Ph (03) 343 1044 Fax (03) 343 1045 Member info@graphicglass.biz www.graphicglass.biz

Pleased to be associated with Modernage Kitchens & Joinery Ltd 2/35 SHANDS ROAD, HORNBY PHONE 349 3362, FAX 349 3315 EMAIL ppchch@primepanels.co.nz

www.primepanels.co.nz

Master Joiner Awards | Modernage Kitchens & Joinery The Modernage team excels at:  Wardrobes  Reception counters

Fa c t Fislea hobby in a garage

 Library joinery  Entertainment units  Display cabinets  Timber windows and doors  High-end exclusive kitchens  CNC routing and egde-banding work

- Sta rte d a a s six e m p loye e s in 1988. Now h in Syd e n h a m m o ro w o sh w e -N oto ga ll e ry - Exc e ll e n t p h on w e bsi te ‘Mod e rn a ge to g in d n ra -b e -R Join e ry Ltd’ & s n e h c it K

Master Joiner Awards | Busch Joinery

Accolades for expertise

Nathan Busch is an expert in the kitchen and he has the accolades to prove it. While he can’t cook to save himself, it’s his kitchen designs which are turning heads in the cooking arena.

He is one of the best master joiners in the country, with his company Busch Joinery taking out the national Master Joiners Award for a kitchen under $15,000 earlier this year with a modern and practical kitchen for a new Christchurch house.

While Busch himself designed the kitchen using skills from a kitchen design course, his skills are certainly not confined

Has Modernage Joinery changed much over time?

“Phenomenally. It started in 1988 in my garage as a one-man band. The first building I purchased was 24 Hawdon Street, Sydenham.

As neighbouring buildings became available we purchased them and expanded but have always maintained number 24 as the base. With the recent purchase of our fourth building, we have turned the office space into display room for hardware, benchtops, drawers and accessories.

“My son Graham started work as an apprentice in 1997 and has continued working with me and has assisted with building the company to its present point. In 2005 Graham pushed me into the new era of kitchen manufacturing. We purchased CNC operated machines and the SCM Edgebander. Having these precision machines has enabled us to produce economical and precise high quality products.”

What are your plans for the future?

“Our most important plan is ensuring we are always keeping up with the ever-changing face of designer joinery, which can be quite a challenge in today’s market.

“We wish to continue in the market as a wellknown reputable business. So far the majority of our business has been by referral because of the service we provide and the quality jobs

Master Joiner Aw a rds

ch e n - 2010 ‘Be st Kit ,000’ 15 u n d e r $ a w a rd

“For the next five years, and many more to come, we will continue to grow and keep producing high quality joinery.”

that we do. We are now actively promoting our company to get a larger amount of customers.

It’s also time to re-brand, so we’re changing our name to Modernage Kitchens & Joinery Ltd.”

Busch Joinery 1737 Boundary Road RD3 Ashburton T 027 563 4537 E buschjoinery@xtra.co.nz www.buschjoinery.co.nz

What awards have you won?

“We belong to the Master Joiners Association.

Each year they judge nationwide joinery businesses on a variety of skills. These include workmanship, skill, complexity of the project, visual appeal and use of material.

“In 2009 we won Best Kitchen and were judged the best business in the Canterbury region.

“In 2010 we again won both of these awards, and the Supreme Award for the best business nationwide. This was a great achievement.

“Modernage Joinery is currently re-branding to Modernage Kitchens & Joinery Ltd, which explains why the website has a different title to what you might imagine.”

Modernage Kitchens & Joinery Ltd 24 Hawdon Street Sydenham Christchurch 8023 T (03) 365 1675 F (03) 365 1695 info@modernagekitchens.conz www.modernagekitchens.co.nz — Advertising Feature

“During the past five years I haven’t needed to advertise, my work speaks for itself and word-of-mouth is extremely powerful marketing when you’re producing this level of workmanship.

— Advertising Feature

to the kitchen. “We predominantly install kitchens but we work within the commercial and domestic sectors and do everything from laundries and vanities to walk in wardrobes, throughout Canterbury.”

He was also runner up in the small business section of the Ashburton Business Association Awards in 2009 and again this year.

Q.C.C. QUAID CONSTRUCTION CO. LTD

But it’s been a long time coming. Working as a joiner for 16 years and doing his apprenticeship in Invercargill before making the northern move, Busch always had his sights set on going into business. Now he’s well and truly there with demand for his skills urging him to take on another joiner earlier this year.

Busch Joinery can make anything from entertainment units, office furniture to laundries, and everything in between, including his famed kitchens.

Justin Quaid

QUALIFIED BUILDER

It’s one of those fantastic one-stop shop stories; the ones which in the days of niche markets and specialising, seem few and far between. But Busch Joinery can design, manufacture and install your chosen feature.

• New Houses • Alterations • Farm Buildings • Renovations

P 03 308 3702 M 0275 016 511 E justinquaid@hotmail.com

Proud to be associated with Busch Joinery

Kitchens, Bathrooms, Wardrobes, Offices and Counters Outstanding Customised Joinery Ph. 027 563 4537 | Fax. 03 303 7109 Email. buschjoinery@xtra.co.nz | www.buschjoinery.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 61

NZIA Awards | Dalman Architecture — Te Waonui Forest Retreat Hotel

Conceptual masterpiece

The five-star Scenic Circle Te Waonui Forest Retreat Hotel is a stunning accommodation concept designed around its native bush environment

by Dalman Architecture.

Te Waunui Forest Retreat Hotel 

2009 Canterbury Award for Commercial Architecture

Nestled among native West Coast rain forest at Franz Josef, Te Waonui Forest Retreat Hotel has been designed with the utmost care of this precious environment. Every aspect of the hotel has been crafted to an impeccable standard.

Opened at the beginning of September 2009, Te Waonui Forest Retreat is at one with nature — the ultimate combination of luxury escape and environmental awareness.

Managing director Richard Dalman says the brief was to construct a new 100-room five-star hotel in Franz Josef township, minimising the impact on the forest environment.

Dalman Architecture undertook the total architectural and interior design on this project, with the design concept involving four wings

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that join together to enclose an area of native rainforest which has been carefully preserved.

“There’s a lot that makes this project stand out from others. It’s a five-star hotel built right in the middle of the bush in a remote location,” Dalman says.

All the guest room balconies look out into the rainforest, which contains mature trees up to 20m high. It is so dense that guests cannot see across to the opposite wing, giving a sense of seclusion and privacy to the rooms.

NZIA Awards | Dalman Architecture — Te Waonui Forest Retreat Hotel

At one with the environment A feature of the Scenic Hotels Te Waonui Forest Retreat Hotel is sustainability — not just in the construction methods used, but in the way the hotel sits holistically into the surrounding natural environment.

Dalman Architecture took great care to ensure this exceptional forest retreat steps lightly upon

The two-storey wings are linked by an internal corridor and external covered walkways. The bush will be left to regenerate and grow right up to the walkways and balconies, allowing guests to experience it from the comfort of the hotel.

At one with the bush The building’s exterior is designed to blend into the bush and fit with the West Coast aesthetic.

It is clad in stained rough-sawn cedar and plywood. Elements such as galvanised steel handrails and paving made with aggregate from a local riverbed give the building a natural look which complements its wild environment.

Dalman Architecture designed all the interiors and fit-out. “We shared our client’s desire to make this a hotel that spoke of its location. We used New Zealand products wherever possible, including custom-made wool carpets, New Zealand-made rugs and furniture and locally made possum fur cushions,” Dalman says.

the earth, from the organic cotton bedspreads to its recycled local building materials.

Environmental sustainability has been considered in every step of the development, from the initial site planning, to the detailed design and selection of materials, through to the construction process.

Feature continues on next page >>

“The hotel entrance has a relaxed resort feel. The light, double-height space of the foyer represents a clearing in the forest, while the ground-floor bar is deliberately darker, giving the feeling of being on the forest floor. The wall leading to the bar is the ‘coal face’.” The bar is carved out of the wall and the servery represents a cave, complete with glow worm lighting.

The first-floor restaurant where guests dine among the tree tops is lighter and brighter.

The theme of filtered light occurs many times, in the dappled pattern in the carpets, the coloured glazing to the bar windows and the forest screen behind the reception. The interior colour scheme draws inspiration from the rain forest, which at first glance is green. On closer inspection the forest reveals rich textures and colourful surprises.

NZIA judges described the complex as a “luxury rain forest haven” that has “raised the standard of tourist accommodation on the West Coast.”

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www.arrowinternational.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 63

NZIA Awards | Dalman Architecture — Te Waonui Forest Retreat Hotel From the outset, design decisions have been made to maximise the amount of existing native bush on the site. Building locations were adjusted to preserve as many important specimen trees as possible.

The Rain Forest Courtyard is a key feature of the development, with all rooms having an aspect into preserved native bush.

Where bush has been removed, new landscaped areas use locall native plantings to re-establish the environment. Some buildings ‘hover’ above ground level, allowing the ground cover and ferns typical of the West Coast to integrate the buildings back into the surroundings.

The buildings are designed with a soft timbered feel and adopt a colour scheme sitting comfortably with the tones of the native bush on site. Large overhanging roofs shelter the buildings from the intense rain typical of this location, but also serve to shade the interior spaces, keeping them cool throughout the humid summer.

Dalman Architecture was also careful to ensure all building processes and materials were as environmentally sustainable as possible. Guest room buildings have double insulated roofs and high-level wall insulation, as well as doubleglazed windows. The foyer, bar and restaurant, as well as service areas, are naturally ventilated.

New Zealand-made materials were chosen wherever possible, while the use of high energy content materials such as steel are minimised, with a real emphasis on fully renewable materials such as timber.

Concrete aggregates and hard fill are sourced from the Waiho River, reducing transportation energy and utilising an abundant resource.

Natural lighting is used extensively throughout, while artificial lighting is deployed in an energy efficient manner. The foyer, bar and restaurant are heated using a hot water radiator and underfloor hybrid system. In guest rooms heat pumps are used for heating and cooling when required.

Wide range of abilities Dalman Architecture specialises in designing high-quality hospitality and aged-care projects, but has a wide portfolio of work that crosses all areas of architectural design.

Dalman Architecture has completed an impressive array of work in its 13 years of operation, gaining numerous awards for its innovative and thought-provoking designs.

As a qualified architectural company, Dalman Architecture undertakes both building design and interior design and is able to integrate all aspects of design to ensure the perfect result for every client.

In addition to the Te Waonui Forest Retreat Hotel and Glacier Hot Pools projects, Dalman Architecture has completed a large number of significant hospitality projects, including the interior design of the Novotel Christchurch, the $12 million overhaul of the Crowne Plaza Queenstown, the refurbishment and extensions to the Novotel Gardens Queenstown, the major refurbishment of the public areas of the George Hotel in Christchurch, including its Pescatore Restaurant, and the Lakefront Cottage Suites in Queenstown.

Dalman Architectures’ aged-care and community projects include the new $80 million Russley Village in Christchurch, interior design of the Springlands Lifestyle Village in Blenheim a new 50-bed care unit and 29 new apartments and studios at the Lansdowne Lifestyle Village in Masterton and the Rimu Retirement Village in Christchurch.

“We are very experienced in those two areas,” Dalman says.

“We know how those types of buildings work and how they operate. We can design all of the architectural and interior aspects.”

Dalman Architecture’s portfolio of commercial projects include its own offices in Durham

Street, Christchurch, the KPMG office fit-out in conjunction with Geyer, the $28 million Tranzrail freight depot in Christchurch and the conversion of an old run-down meatworks in Blenheim into the large, international-quality Indevin Winery.

The company is currently working on the new Salvation Army building in Christchurch (pictured).

Dalman Architecture offers a full range of professional architectural and interior design services including feasibility studies, brief development, urban design guidelines, concept design, liaison with local authorities, preliminary and developed design, building consent documentation, contract documentation, contract observation and quality control, contract administration and project management.

Focus on quality and service The team recognises the importance of enjoying the design process, with the company’s work being the perfect partnership between its own expertise and every client’s desires.

“We’re very much focussed on quality in terms of design, documentation and relationships,” Dalman says. “We pitch ourselves at the top of the market, rather than doing everything that comes along.”

A recent marketing survey undertaken by the company revealed that clients differentiated Dalman Architecture from other companies by the fact they felt heard and listened to by Dalman staff.

“Our clients have told us that this sets us apart from our competitors — we really focus on our clients’ requirements,” Dalman says.

“At Dalman Architecture you know you are listened to and your needs are correctly identified and met, both in our designs and in the process of the project.”

Sustainability of all types is important to the Dalman team, which works well together and fosters relationships as much as it fosters the profession of architecture. “We have some of the best architects in the city working with us and they’ve been here a long time,” he says.

One of the key words the team at Dalman Architecture uses is appropriateness.

“Our designs are appropriate to the situation, the site, the clients, the budget and everything else that forms part of the brief.

Our buildings generally look quite different to one another — we don’t have one style that we impose on all projects,” Dalman says.

“Our buildings look different because they grow from the site context and the client. All our clients are different and require different things in terms of function, style and budget.”

Dalman Architecture Limited PO Box 717 Christchurch 8140 T (03) 366 5445 F (03) 366 5443 www.dalman.co.nz — Advertising Feature

The Laminex Group is taking a leading role in ecologically sustainable design (ESD) solutions through the Greenfirst range of environmentally preferable products. Greenfirst is The Laminex Group’s response to the growing awareness in the market of the impact that building materials have on the environment. Greenfirst products are backed by independent certification and support the rating tools of the New Zealand Green Building Council and the Green Building Council of Australia | www.thelaminexgroup.co.nz

64 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Inside design To understand a client’s wishes and needs and then translate these ideas into a tangible solution requires ingenuity, ability and creativity.

To nurture a property development or construction project from concept to completion, while realising the desired architectural, structural and functional vision, demands the application of foresight, specialist skills and organisational flexibility.

Joseph & Associates Services:

Project management firm Joseph & Associates defines these characteristics. This is a business that provides creative, efficient and affordable solutions when it comes to planning, managing and delivering successful projects.

“We crystallise our client’s ideas,” director Tony Joseph says. “We take a snapshot of where our clients are now, where they have been and where they want to go in order to come up with some clear direction for their concept.

“Every project is very different and often people can spend a lot of money being taken down the wrong track. Our team is made up of individual professionals so there are no high overheads and our clients are able to deal directly with each of us. When a client meets one of our team, they know they will be dealing with them through the whole process. Client relationships are very important to us because we are building relationships to last.”

•

Project Strategy from concept to completion

•

Design — full service

•

Project Management

•

Client representation — providing critical strategic advice

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Project viability — marrying concept and construction cost with the business model

In attendance at the Glacier Hot Pools opening were (Joseph & Associates team members names in bold) —Front: Greg Simons, Daniel Rivers ,Tony Joseph. Back: Maarten Hofmans, Shane Bermister, Max Allfrey, Terry McBride, Wayne Jones, Martin Charles

Clients know they’re getting: •

A team passionate about innovation and excellence that has a real desire to deliver the best possible practical solutions

•

•

Excellent communication, synergy and teamwork

A personable and professional network that listens to and understands client objectives

•

Value that far exceeds the costs incurred.

Joseph & Associates 47 Main Road , Redcliffs, Christchurch 8081 T (03) 384 4707 E josephandassociates@xtra.co.nz www.josephandassociates.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Feature Projects With extensive experience in all aspects of building and development — taking in the commercial, tourism and residential sectors — Joseph & Associates prides itself on being an innovative, inventive and environmentally conscious firm.

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Punakaiki Rocks Hotel — (Stage 2 and 3 villas), 24 hotel units, construction of 12 eco hotel units

•

Glacier Hot Pools — “The brief was to touch the land lightly”

The team

Glacier Hot Pools

The Joseph & Associates team is a collective of separate, like-minded professionals who have completed many successful projects together.

The company works according to the mantra that there is no such word as ‘can’t’ — the motto is always, ‘how can we?’

The Glacier Hot Pool project is a significant achievement on Joseph & Associates’ professional portfolio. Tony Joseph spearheaded his associate team for this assignment, providing leadership and a single point of accountability for project delivery through the integration of strong feasibility, design and construction practises.

The development was finished on time and within budget.

Tony Joseph

Project Manager/Project Strategist — Joseph & Associates

John Joseph

Project Manager — Joseph & Associates

Martin Charles

Quantity Surveyor — Martin Charles Consultancy

Maarten Hofmans Daniel Rivers Greg Simons

Senior Architect — Hofmans Architects Landscape Architect — Land Arch Composite Engineer — Reflex Industrial

formed the answers and the final product looked up to 400mm, which impacted standard construction and operation processes. “Despite exactly as was originally anticipated with the these challenges our solution to the rainfall was buildings nestled into the bush. to embrace it,” Joseph says.

Maarten Hofmans and Dan Rivers ensured the Large roof gutters were designed as catchments form followed the forest with Hofmans winning the NZIA (Canterbury) Award for the Glacier Hot to let the water spout off as cascading water Pools in conjunction with Dalman Architecture. features. In order to minimise impact on the environment, much of the build was “At Joseph & Associates, we always keep it constructed off-site and transported in. simple, listen and work together to come up with solutions to challenges. Turning Opened in November 2008 by leading challenges into solutions makes the company’s New Zealand tourism company, Ngai Tahu Tourism, Joseph and Associates team overcame developments beautifully unique and The challenges involved with this project were many; from difficulties associated with challenges through the application of effective there is a great deal of satisfaction in solutions. “Like our other projects, our company that for us.” Joseph says. the remote supply of materials and trades, developed ideas as a team,” Joseph says. to ensuring minimal environmental impact Have a look at video footage on our website... as well as meeting these types of challenges Land Arch’s brief prepared for Urban Evolution www.josephandassociates.co.nz within the specified budget. (landscapers) was to ensure the site was left as if the forest had never been touched and while Franz Josef has a mean annual rainfall of the design was complex, the site and trees approximately 5500mm and daily falls of

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 65

NZIA Awards | Dalman Architecture — Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools

Sumptuous seclusion

The trees take precedence at the Glacier Hot Pools at Franz Josef, which were designed to sit lightly among the beautiful native bush that not only surrounds the complex, but is part of it.

The Glacier Hot Pools were designed by Christchurch-based company Dalman Architecture, which last year won a local (Canterbury) award for commercial architecture in the New Zealand Institute of Architects awards for the project.

Emphasis on the environment The Glacier Hot Pools is located in an ancient alpine rain forest on the edge of Franz Josef township, at the foot of the Franz Josef Glacier.

The three main pools and three private pools are fed with pure glacial water and surrounded by dense native forest close enough to touch.

Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools 

2009 Canterbury Award for Commercial Architecture

66 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Dalman Architecture’s brief was to create a commercial pool operation set intimately within the rain forest environment. Built by Joseph Developments and Ngai Tahu, the hot pools were required to sit in context with the dense natural bush and unique nature of the site.

Managing director Richard Dalman says there was a strong emphasis placed on minimising the environmental impact and ensuring the project “touched the ground lightly”, leaving as much of the environment as possible as it was.

However, a functional layout for the pools and facilities was also important, with the need to accommodate anticipated future growth.

“Our first site impression was highlighted by the dense and cocooning feel of the foliage and trees,” Dalman says. “Walking through the site there were times we would climb between two trees and drop down into an incredible space — a haven beautifully lit through the canopy above that made us want to pause and contemplate.

Ideally all we would want is some form of shelter from the imminent rain. A giant leaf to hold over your head would do.”

Natural haven It was clear to project architect Maarten Hofmans and the Dalman Architecture team that they needed to impact the environment as little as possible — to carefully insert shelter without damaging or altering the trees and foliage.

“Our first step was to have all trees surveyed, reported on and catalogued by an arborist. Then we carefully inserted and intertwined the built forms within these,” Dalman says.

NZIA Awards | Dalman Architecture — Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools

The charcoal grey tiled ‘moraine walls’ appear as bathers walk from the main entrance either into the changing rooms, or emerge directly into the pool area. These create a solid rock-like backdrop to the pools. Embedded into these three-dimensional walls are carved-out curved recesses for showering — both inside and out.

The reception counter display unit is a fragment of the moraine walls that appears to have been eroded from it. The three main rectilinear building forms are shaped and punctured by the glacial and moraine walls.

Water droplets and their catchment becomes a critical experiential part of the journey. This is celebrated at the point of exit from the building out to the pools in the form of a woven water lantern catching and showing off the vast amount of water run-off from the main roof.

The cabanas are simple timber pavilions that form a three-dimensional wall between the walkway and private pools.

“The trees and many fallen logs were marked by GPS on the plans, and we built the hot pools and buildings among the existing trees and fallen logs.” The result of the client team’s vision is a breathtaking facility nestled in a heavily wooded rain forest, beneath mature 30-metre tall trees.

The Glacier Hot Pools is a haven of natural tranquillity and the perfect way for visitors to unwind and experience a blissful state of pure relaxation after travelling along the West Coast or enjoying one of its many attractions. Opened on November 1, 2008, the multi-million dollar complex is the only commercial hot pools on the rugged West Coast.

Complex building design Dalman Architecture designed the unique Glacier Hot Pools buildings to not only complement their surrounding environment, but to reflect and enhance the majesty of the bush.

Dalman Architecture managing director Richard Dalman says the buildings were nestled in the forest in a way that makes the visitor discover them through the trees.

“The landscape is the most important thing on the site. The building bows its head to the bush and meanders around and between the trees,” he says.

“We have found the building difficult to photograph, and on reflection, we are very pleased about this as it means the building is truly integrated into the forest. We wanted the buildings to disappear into the bush.”

“The buildings and the bush merge. When moving in and around the buildings there is an easy relationship with the surrounding environment,” Dalman says. “The materials we’ve used inside and out enhance that experience, rather than impose on it.”

the gaps.” The roof floats over the back-lit ‘glacial wall’.

This sinew of ‘ice’ radiates light as a dramatic beacon to bathers in the evenings and draws them in to the facility. It can also be glimpsed from the road, through the trees, as a mysterious glowing light source looking to the main entrance.

The pools and private pool cabanas were made off-site due to remoteness, labour costs, accommodation costs, rainfall and the sensitivity of the site. At the site, the elements were positioned carefully between trees and the overhead canopy.

Dalman Architecture Limited PO Box 717 Christchurch 8140 T (03) 366 5445 F (03) 366 5443 www.dalman.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Congratulations and thanks to Dalman Architecture and Joseph Consulting on a superb project concept, expertly executed.

Recognition richly deserved.

“We have responded to the poetics of floating leaves on the forest floor by providing large ‘leaf’ forms as roofs over the two changing areas. Also, the ‘leaf 7’ canopy over the main entry appears as fallen leaves propped up by sticks,” Dalman says. “We felt it important to lift the roof away from the building below to create a sense of lightness and drama. Imagine an insect under a leaf in the rain, looking through

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NZIA Awards | Wilkie + Bruce Registered Architects

Shape makers Wilkie + Bruce Architects’ experience and skill in restoring heritage buildings is clearly evident in its work on The Canterbury Club in Christchurch.

Established 28 years ago the design company has built its reputation as one of the South Island’s leading practices, with a large portfolio of projects throughout New Zealand for significant corporate, education, local authority and private sector clients.

Its completed work extends over a wide range of types including educational planning, commercial buildings, office fitouts and residential buildings. The ability of the practice to deliver quality design outcomes is reflected in the numerous design awards received from the New Zealand Institute of Architects and the Christchurch Civic Trust.

The Canterbury Club Wilkie + Bruce director Alun Wilkie says one area of specialty for the company is heritage building restorations. “We’ve done a lot of heritage adaptation work. We really enjoy the challenge

The Canterbury Club 

2009 Canterbury Award for Heritage project

Wilkie + Bruce specialises in heritage building restorations such as The Canterbury Club

of making contemporary but sympathetic changes within heritage buildings and we’ve completed more than 25 such projects,” he says.

Wilkie + Bruce’s portfolio of heritage projects includes the Armson Woolstore furniture showroom and offices behind the Harvey Norman Centre on Moorhouse Avenue, restoration of Te Koraha at Rangi Ruru Girls School, the School House and Jacob’s House at Christ’s College and The Canterbury Club.

The client brief for the Cambridge Terrace icon was to restore the club and replace the rear outbuildings with a modern major addition that would have an iconic presence.

“They wanted to do a major change to the building to make new facilities and fully update it and bring it up to the modern environment, to make it more attractive to younger members and women members. The old gentlemen’s club needed updating,” Wilkie says.

“The Canterbury Club is one of the few institutional buildings in the city that still has its original use on the site since 1874. Therefore, the social and cultural continuity is a significant heritage issue, as well as the building itself.”

The project involved selling the carpark at the back of the property to fund the redevelopment.

With the buildings listed as protected heritage,

Alun Wilkie and his team worked closely with the Christchurch City Council.

The project involved moving and restoring the old caretaker’s cottage, as well as restoring the original clubhouse at the front of the property.

The two old buildings now “book end” the new building in between. Wilkie + Bruce’s interpretation of the “iconic” was to develop an interstitial form that was contemporary but also achieved a balance between restoration of the traditional aspects of the club.

Today, The Canterbury Club contains a host of new facilities, including a main dining room extension, a courtyard Café, a members’ bar and a large fitness centre. The Cambridge room has been restored, which is ideally suited to cocktail parties, work presentations and dinners. Other facilities include a boardroom, business centre, billiard room and card room.

The new two-storey additions are in a prominent city position facing Worcester Street Boulevard and the exterior utilises stainless steel mesh screens layered in front of the new upper level guest bedrooms between a classical elevational composition of precast concrete and copper-clad base columns. Two new bedrooms with ensuites are upstairs in the new building, while four bedrooms in the original clubhouse have been restored, with ensuites added.

Members of The Canterbury Club were pleased with the finished restoration and extension.

The project won a New Zealand Institute of Architects design award last year, as well as a Christchurch Civic Trust award.

Mainzeal congratulate Wilkie + Bruce Architects on the Mount Pleasant School project.

68 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

NZIA Awards | Wilkie + Bruce Registered Architects

Mount Pleasant School in Christchurch

Interactive school design Wilkie + Bruce Architects Limited designed the redevelopment of Mount Pleasant School in Christchurch with flexibility in mind — an environment that encourages independent learning among students.

The brief was to provide accommodation for nine classrooms, a school library and administration/staff facilities,as well as ancillary and specialist teaching spaces.

Company director and principal designer on the $2.5 million project, Tony Hoare, says the main feature of the design is the open flexible plan that encourages independent learning on the part of the students and interaction between classes. “Another notable aspect of the project was the strong team spirit that developed amongst contractor, consultants and client that enabled a tight programme to be successfully achieved,” he says.

Mount Pleasant School is on a north facing hill site overlooking Christchurch and the Avon-Heathcote Estuary, with magnificent views

of the Southern Alps. A number of the existing weatherboard and Summerhill stone buildings were in need of major refurbishment so funding was secured to replace them.

From the outset measures were taken to ensure extra value was squeezed out of the funding.

The staging of the new works was orchestrated to avoid the need to hire portable classrooms, and the new north block re-uses 70 percent of the floor slab of the building it replaced.

Large areas of glazing between classrooms and shared/flexible areas allow the teacher to visually supervise each.

The classroom cross section follows sound environmental design principles with broad eaves to shade the summer sun and high level clerestory windows for good cross ventilation.

A varied and rich palette of colours and textures has been used to create an ordered yet

cheerful collection of buildings in which the whole school delights.

Wilkie + Bruce Registered Architects Limited 307 Durham Street Christchurch T (03) 379 7739 F (03) 379 5478 www.wilkieandbruce.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

The planning developed from the school’s leadership in exploring new directions in primary education design and pedagogy, including the promotion of flexible, open, permeable learning spaces in order to better adapt to differing teaching needs and techniques, and to encourage independence in the students.

To meet these requirements all classrooms are organised with access to both open-plan shared spaces, to which groups of students can peel off from the main class activity, and smaller selfcontained teaching spaces for specialist one-onone and small group work.

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Opening

Export | Air New Zealand Cargo Canterbury Export Awards

offshore doors

New Zealand is valued as a foodbowl for the world, a nation committed to sustainable living and a culture that breeds innovation. And while it is yet to realise its full exporting potential, New Zealand is beginning to broaden its horizons as businesses recognise the value in connecting with international markets.

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In July three Canterbury-based businesses were honoured at the Air New Zealand Cargo Canterbury Export Awards for their significant export progress. Each recognised for their revolutionary technology, substantial achievements and commitment to a product or service sector, these businesses represent three of the 13,000 companies in New Zealand currently exporting to international markets.

Exporting equals growth The platform for the annual Export New Zealand Canterbury Awards have been built upon the understanding that exporting is a crucial aspect of New Zealand’s growth and development.

Canterbury Chamber of Commerce chief executive Peter Townsend believes exporting has never been more important to New Zealand.

 Export New Zealand Canterbury Emerging Exporter of the Year Energy Mad Limited Energy Mad designs, manufactures and markets energy efficient Ecobulb light bulbs and provides energy efficiency improvements for homes. The company’s passion and drive to make lives better by saving electricity made it the fastest growing business in New Zealand in 2006 and 2007. Energy Mad is extending its vision through growing exports to Australia, Asia, Europe and the United States.

 Export New Zealand Canterbury Small to Medium Exporter of the Year Kelford Cams Kelford Cams has specialised in the design and manufacture of custom camshafts for high performance cars since 1968.

Through continual design, innovation and investment in technology and equipment, the business stays ahead of the competition, experiencing consistent growth in the last three years. Main export markets are the United States, Australia, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates and Russia.

 Export New Zealand Canterbury Large Exporter of the Year

“There are three key reasons for this,” Export NZ Canterbury Regional Committee chairman Kent France says in response to Townsend’s statement. “The first reason is down to basic math. In New Zealand we import all sorts of things and therefore we have to export to pay for that. We don’t generate enough to pay for our imports within our domestic economy, so if we don’t export we can’t sustain imports. Exporting is a necessity that underpins everything.”

France says exporting is also critical if we are to keep pace with the rapidly evolving technological market. “We need to export or we will become isolated and out of touch. If we lose touch with international economies, we lose touch with what is possible technologically and our range of opportunities will become limited.

“Thirdly, exporting allows New Zealand to create opportunities for kids growing up here to participate in sophisticated businesses operating globally from New Zealand. This is a real alternative to moving overseas,” France explains.

Christchurch Engine Centre The Christchurch Engine Centre is a partnership between Pratt and Whitney and Air New Zealand Limited, providing aircraft jet engine repair and overhauls. The business

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Export | Air New Zealand Cargo Canterbury Export Awards

Business Development | Donnithorne Simms

Street / smart / style Celebrating export excellence Recognising the award recipients as leaders in manufacturing, the Canterbury Export Awards identified three organisations who demonstrated a smart application of technology and key business characteristics. Ngai Tahu Holdings was also acknowledged for its contribution to exporting through activities in the seafood and tourism industries.

“To export, businesses need three things — attitude, organisation and strategy and each of the winners had these things,” France says of the selected candidates.

SME export potential France says any New Zealand business producing goods and services can look at exporting, but potential exporters need to understand that developing a product is only a small part of the equation. To prepare for entry into the export market, France says, “Businesses need to identify and validate a market for their product and organise contacts, sales and distribution. It is important they understand the market they are targeting and the total cost of doing all these things.”

The increase in SME entries in the 2010 export awards also indicated businesses in this category are gravitating towards international markets. France says New Zealand’s business environment needs to facilitate the entrance of SMEs to the global market with compliance requirements which take into account the resources of SMEs and supportive infrastructure.

Challenges and solutions While France acknowledges there are three major limitations many businesses have to face when exporting, he says these challenges can certainly be overcome. He cites some of the challenges and possible actions or solutions as:  Challenge —scale, relating to population and economy size in New Zealand Action — our small scale population and economy means an increased willingness is required; for businesses to co-operate and

Kent France, Export NZ Canterbury regional committee chairman

for professional clusters to work together to complement each other. France says overcoming our small scale requires the collaboration of similar businesses for New Zealand exporting to be bigger and better.  Challenge — distance to international markets Action — overcoming the tyranny of distance requires businesses to make smart choices about entering markets where we have a competitive advantage and choosing markets that fit our production capacity. France says this is about finding relevant markets that will buy the type and volume of products businesses are producing.  Challenge — access to capital with limited capital available domestically Action — to overcome the limited capital available within the domestic market in New Zealand, greater education about investing in national businesses is required. France says that while the global crisis has dented confidence, a willingness for New Zealanders to invest in homegrown businesses is essential. Because if financial support cannot be sourced domestically, capital will be sought overseas and this is not always a palatable choice.

For more information on Export New Zealand or the Export New Zealand Canterbury Awards, visit www.exportnz.org.nz Export New Zealand Canterbury PO Box 359 Christchurch T (03) 366 5096 F (03) 379 5454 E canterbury@exportnewzealand.org.net www.exportnz.org.nz — Advertising Feature

The all new Mitsubishi ASX, a street smart and super comfortable car, has just arrived at Donnithorne Simms.

A modern car for a modern world, the ASX has plenty of options. Features include a choice between 2.0 litre MIVEC petrol or 1.8 litre MIVEC intercooled turbo diesel engines and a choice between 2WD or 4WD. The ASX also has electronic break force distribution, hill start assist, cruise control, 17” alloy wheels, and a 60:40 split folding rear seat.

“The all new ASX is brimming with features that open up the new realms of urban adventure,” Donnithorne Simms manager Gareth Evans says.

Hands-free bluetooth allows you to make calls while driving and a leather steering wheel and heated front seats will keep you comfortable and warm even on frosty winter mornings.

Important safety features such as active stability control, ABS braking and airbags for the driver (including the knees), passenger and side and curtain will give you peace of mind when you drive your family and friends about.

Evans says the all new Mitsubishi ASX retails from $35,490 plus on road costs.

“To see how we managed to pack so many features into one car, get down to Donnithorne Simms’ caryard on the corner of St Asaph and Montreal streets for a test drive.”

Donnithorne Simms PO Box 140 Christchurch T (03) 379 0588 F (03) 371 4701 E gevans@simms.co.nz www.donnithornesimms.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 71

Business Development | Drexels Breakfast Restaurant

Breakfast While it may not be dressed in the same neon formica or feature traditional jukeboxes and waitresses on rollerblades, the Drexels breakfast restaurants in Christchurch have the same energetic American essence as the diners you’d have discovered exploring the USA in the 1960s.

Having forged a unique identity of their own in metropolitan Christchurch, the Drexels breakfast restaurants integrate classic American character with quintessential Kiwi innovation. For 24 years, Drexels has been serving up a slice of America within a Kiwi culture.

Established by Norm and Vee Drexel, the originators of the Drexels breakfast experience, Drexels, with its diner themed décor and short order cuisine, has been successfully feeding hungry Kiwis thick Iowa pancakes and eggs Benedict since its inception.

After Vee, a London trained chef, and Norm, a regular fixture on the diner scene, opened the Drexels doors in 1986, the breakfast restaurant and its menu became the talk of the town.

Drexels had maintained a strong relationship with its Christchurch customers for 15 years when the current managing director Emma Godfrey was introduced to the Drexels experience in 2001. Godfrey was looking for a business opportunity with personality.

With accumulated franchising experience at her disposal, Godfrey wanted to find a venture that she could drive her aquired skills into. Upon her surveyance of the Christchurch market, Godfrey heard about a “one of a kind” opportunity; a business with an American accent and authentic character that was compatible with her future goals and past experience.

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with a

champion

Admittedly, Godfrey says her own systematic approach to franchising was forefront in her mind when buying the Drexels business, but she concedes Norm and Vee’s original Drexels formula for success was irreplaceable.

“They really did take a big punt when they originally opened in the Shades Arcades because Kiwis were more likely to get up and have their Marmite on toast than go out for breakfast. And while they did things very differently to how I would have done them, I could see their formula worked and so it stayed the same,” Godfrey says.

In 2006, to accommodate its growing customer base, Drexels relocated to a new location on Hereford Street and has since opened a restaurant in Riccarton. Featuring American style booths and a counter service breakfast bar, the restaurant can accommodate up to 90 hungry appetites, althought its iconic status has made bookings essential on most days and imperative on weekends.

Celebrating consistency “The one word I hear from people when they are describing Drexels is consistency and from a management point of view and in regard to the mantra I offer my staff, this is exactly what we are wanting to achieve,” Godfrey says.

“When people walk in the door at Drexels, we offer friendly service straight away — we are hot on that.

From homemade hash browns, bacon bagels, chicken enchiladas and breakfast burritos to classic pancakes, peach and orange French toast, waffles and sundaes, the Drexels dining experience can also cater for childrens’ appetites and dietary constraints.

Built on the foundations of fresh food and good value for money, Godfrey says the restaurants aim to build expectations and then meet them every time a customer returns.

“A lot of training has gone into the service and we have had one staff member working with us for fifteen years. I also work on the floor at least 18 hours a week — that is my management style and I like to be a strong leader.

“I’m really passionate about my business and providing really good service. At Drexels we know we are in hospitality to be hospitable and we aim to get it right. It’s about owning what you do,” she adds.

Open 6.30am to 2pm Monday to Friday and 7am to 2pm weekends, Drexels has served more than 10 million breakfasts to its customers to date.

Drexels Breakfast Restaurant PO Box 4623 Christchurch 8140 E info@drexels.co.nz www.drexels.co.nz

“We ensure customers are seated and are served their drinks and offer them hot toast and whipped butter while their food is being cooked to order.”

City Restaurant 96 Hereford St T (03) 379 8089

Serving both savoury and sweet treats, Drexels menu has been inspired by the American short order grill cooking style, meaning meals come direct to the table via a waiter.

Riccarton Restaurant Rotherham St T (03) 3433403

Shop and office fitouts using our extensive knowledge and experience Trade qualified, high quality workmanship Full Inhouse Design service Highest quality - guaranteed

“Whyte Construction made many great suggestions in which we could save money and still achieve the look we wanted without cutting corners. We are very happy with the service and end result.”

Emma Godfrey, Drexel’s Restaurants CALL David on 03 377 0173 95 Fitzgerald Ave, Christchurch. e. info@whyteconstruction.co.nz www.whyteconstruction.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

“When people walk in the door at Drexels, we offer friendly service straight away — we are hot on that.”

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PROUD TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH DREXELS BREAKFAST RESTAURANT

PH. 03 366 7288 PO Box 4259 | 63 Disraeli Street Fax. 03 366 7688

www.christchurchcleaningsupplies.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 73

Business Development | Cashmere Club

Alterations boost club spirit

Like most chartered clubs, the Cashmere Club is a great place to go for a meal, a beer and to watch the game. It was started in the 1970s and many of the founding members are still part of the club. For 30 years teams have held prizegivings and meetings there, and locals have spent their leisure time watching sports and playing games of pool.

Manager Don Whyte put a focus on food last year. Recent menu changes mean the club now offers delicious, yet inexpensive food such as Mount Cook salmon, flintstone steak, pork belly and flounder fillets. This move has brought in more patronage and the 1970s building is bursting at the seams.

“We’re a female-friendly and family-friendly club — it’s not just about boys and beer. While you can get a drink and some pub food here, you’ll also find food just as good as anything in the city for club prices.”

Whyte commissioned builders to re-do the kitchen earlier this year. It’s been made bigger and more modern — and to the delight of his staff has been done to a very high standard.

“The chefs and wait staff are really impressed.

It hadn’t had an upgrade since we opened in the 1970s. They’re very pleased to have such a fantastic area to work in.”

The next step is creating an outdoor dining area so patrons can eat outside in the summer months. Builders are hard at work creating this space as well as extending the bar and gaming room and upgrading the restaurant. The project is due to be completed by mid-September.

commercial & domestic

COMMERCIAL

It’s also a popular place for conferences, reunions and wedding receptions — in the past it’s had functions with more than 300 guests.

Whyte hopes the alterations to the kitchen and the addition of an outside dining area will make the club even more attractive to event holders.

“There’s nothing better then seeing people enjoy themselves at the Cashmere Club, whether it’s at a wedding, a competition or just some friends meeting up for a drink. We know that once the alterations are done, even more people will have this opportunity.”

Cashmere Club PO Box 12048 Beckenham Christchurch 8242 T (03) 332 0092 E cashmere@cashmereclub.co.nz www.cashmereclub.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

JOHN JACKSON

FREE QUOTES DOMESTIC

As hard as it is to imagine in August, customers will be enjoying long evenings outside having cold drinks, delicious meals and chatting until late this summer. With a beer garden and a playground on site, Whyte expects even more patronage from families looking for a relaxing and fun evening for adults and children.

The Cashmere Club often hosts big events, having recently hosted the South Island darts champs and the national eight ball competition.

INDUSTRIAL

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Proud to be associated with The Cashmere Club Ph 021 886 963 | Fax 338 8736 inlineplumbing@xtra.co.nz | www.inlineplumbing.co.nz 74 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

H New and Existing H Wallpapering H Quality Assured H Free Quotes

Pleased to be associated with The Cashmere Club Phone John 322 1497 or 0274 993 810

Ironclad Safety

Empowering a safety culture inside your business Injuries at work weaken our economy, weaken a business and drag its profits down!

Safety that’s Ironclad Nobody in this country should be killed or maimed at work! The physical, emotional and economic cost of workplace injuries to individuals, their families, friends, workplaces and the economy as a whole is tragic. But what makes each and every injury more disastrous than it already is that many of them might have been easily avoided.

This is where Ironclad Safety can help. Ironclad specialise in working in partnership with executive management and with all staff, right down to the coal face, to provide positive and enduring outcomes to those vexing questions. Their objective is simple – to empower management and staff to create a positive culture of health and safety. Ironclad’s director Peter Newsome explains how and why his company can help you.

Why would an employer want to pay for your services?

Ironclad will reduce workplace injuries, and increase profitability in any industry.

How? By: • Adding value • Empowering operational performance • Defining and empowering safe behaviours • Empowering managers to deliver a real safety culture.

So what?

So nobody in this country should be killed or maimed at work! Injuries slice profit off the bottom line. Ironclad adds value, empowers operational performance and unlocks productivity. That transfers directly to the profitability, and in these times, the sustainability of any business or organisation.

That’s fairly bold given that most employers have health and safety systems or safety management already. What makes Ironclad any different?

Ironclad’s director Peter Newsome has a proven track record of reducing the frequency and severity of workplace injuries by up to 35 percent within six months! That’s fairly dramatic!

What type of workplaces were involved?

The client base is diverse and growing. We are developing systems for companies at a national level and local firms as well as not for profit organisation.

Commercial and civil construction, log saw milling, engineering, plastering, roofing, flooring, deep sea fishing, landscape gardening, plasma cutting and sheet metal engineering, agricultural implement

And what about safety systems and training - can you also provide those?

Of course; simple, straight forward and geared to achieve up to 20 percent discount on ACC Levies on an annual basis!

So what difference does Ironclad make to all this?

By: • Adding value.

• Empowering operational performance.

• Defining and empowering safe behaviours.

• Empowering managers to deliver a real safety culture.

Wrestling with Safety?

Ironclad Safety helps you beat the beast!

Safety isn’t about not wrestling with the beast.

It’s about being able to do it safely and come back tomorrow and do it again.

manufacturing and repair, retail, road transport, marine engineering, residential health care and so on.

And how are such significant results obtained?

Peter takes a personal and no nonsense approach.

He works out why people are being injured, what it is that’s hurting them where, how and when.

How? By working in partnerships. It’s about speaking to the people in the workplace; understanding their work and tasks and their thoughts on safety. It’s about doing the same with managers and line supervisors and then looking at the workplace physically as an environment.

About getting a flavour for the culture. It’s also important to check out the existing safety systems and how they are being used. Are they effective? Are they relevant?

Are they understood?

You used the word culture there - what’s that about?

It’s not about paintings and sculpture, or drama and opera. Culture is the single most important factor in any workplace. It boils down to a simple statement. It’s the way we do things here.

How so?

Well, if a supervisor walks past an employee using an angle grinder without safety glasses and ignores it, then that’s as good as saying it’s accepted. And it’s the same for a co-worker. Two guys working two levels up on a roof. One is harnessed up properly, the other isn’t. In a real safety culture the conversation would run something like this.

“Hey mate, you need to be harnessed up, let me help!”

In a poor culture that never happens and the guy falls, suffers a brain injury and spends the rest of his days watching TV and having his nappies changed, not understanding any of it!

The key difference we make is by understanding behaviour and systems, because behaviour never occurs in a vacuum, there is always a reason for it.

We achieve this by defining safe behaviours and linking people into safety systems that work for them - all written in plain, simple terms. Also by delivering training aimed at the needs of the target audience and supporting that with simple resources that reach everyone. And by giving managers the skills to take leadership and ownership of safety.

In short, by supplying the foundations and tools for a real safety culture.

Ironclad will mentor and coach safety in partnership with its clients; a partnership with Ironclad is not an open and shut relationship. It’s enduring and continually improving for the benefit of the business.

Peter’s experience Peter has: • Designed and implemented award winning injury prevention strategies for the construction industry.

• Project managed and developed a national level ACC injury prevention program.

• Provided legal compliance and safety advice on the handling distribution and storage of explosives to the Warehouse Ltd. • Reduced injury rates in engineering and construction companies by up to 35%.

• Delivered health and safety training to various industry groups.

• Delivered key a note session on safety investigations at national health and safety conferences.

• Master Class conference on safety investigations.

• Designed leadership and behavioural safety model for the South Island’s largest health care provider.

• Successfully investigated serious crime and serial criminal offending.

• Awarded commendation for investigative and analytical excellence while investigating a homicide.

• Supplied operational intelligence support and analysis to high level investigations.

That happens?

Unfortunately it does and far too often. Check the ACC stats – lives are being ruined!

It’s that real then, isn’t it?

Yes, it is that real. Add the cost of injuries, rehabilitation, prosecution, recruitment, hiring and training temps, or working short-handed, and it comes into focus sharply.

Ironclad safety director Peter Newsome, takes a no nonsense approach.

Hey mate, you look cut up. Was that machine guarded?

Systems + Behaviours = Culture = Safety = Productivity Contact: 021 154 9317

www.ironcladsafety.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 75

Initiatives | McNeill Pumping

Primed for success

Above: McNeill Pumping’s modern Christchurch branch in Waterloo Road Below: A large-scale booster set being installed for Delta at the North Otago Irrigation Scheme site

McNeill Pumping is now able to offer its South Island customers a complete pumping, electrical and automation service.

McNeill’s was formed in Southland more than 90 years ago as a privately owned drilling, piling and pumping company. The company today operates branches in Christchurch, Dunedin and Alexandra, plus its head office in Invercargill.

McNeill’s has traditionally offered a range of pumping services across its branches, including scheme design, pump sales and hire, filtration systems, service and installations, pipes, fittings, tanks and quality mechanical seals.

Today the company is the agent for a range of leading international brands, including Grundfos pumping equipment, Chemilizer water-driven chemical dosing pumps, Graco air-operated diaphragm pumps, Baleen micro filters and Airwell pumps.

McNeill’s has always aimed at the high end of the market and sells the best quality products.

General manager Rodger Dawson believes Grundfos is a market leader in pumping technology in New Zealand, if not the world.

76 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

A year ago McNeill Pumping formed a joint venture with Nind Electrical in Invercargill, bringing together the electrical and pumping aspects of the two businesses in one package, under the name of McNeill Nind Limited.

“McNeill’s is a service company and this joint venture has given us a lot better coverage. Nind Electrical has been in Southland for 35 years and we’ve been here 90 years. It’s a good marriage of two long-standing companies,” Dawson says.

“We wanted to be able to offer a complete solution right from conception to specifying the right pump to the installation and wiring. We can now carry out the whole process, whereas in the past the electrical side was done by subcontractors. Now we have the ability to carry out the whole project.”

Automation acquisition A year ago in October McNeill Pumping purchased E-Link Automation, a Dunedin-based electrical automation engineering company specialising in industrial PLC and SCADA systems, interfacing plant control with information and management systems. This acquisition is an important link in providing a turn-key package for pumping solutions, particularly in automating sites and allowing offsite monitoring.

Initiatives | McNeill Pumping

Above: A two-pump Grundfos booster set, ready for commissioning at Canterbury Spinners.

Right: A McNeill employee installs a Grundfos pump at Lake Alta above the Remarkables skifield.

E-Link’s highly qualified staff possess a wide spectrum of skills and a wealth of experience to provide solutions for automation, design, software development, installation and commissioning of highly automated machinery.

“E-Link Automation also specialises in telemetry, which has added another specialty side to the electrical services and control solutions that we now offer,” Dawson says.

E-Link has been integrated into McNeill’s Dunedin office, with its full range of services available soon to customers throughout Canterbury and the lower South Island.

Company growth McNeill Pumping Limited is consolidating its business throughout the South Island following 12 months of significant expansion.

In addition to its new joint venture and business acquisitions, which incorporate electrical and automation services, McNeill Pumping is working hard to grow its Christchurch branch in Waterloo Road, under the leadership of branch manager Jason Marshall. The company has also recently moved into a large purposebuilt head office in Arena Street, Invercargill.

General manager Rodger Dawson says the new Invercargill location has brought the McNeill Nind joint venture onto the same site, which improves efficiencies and customer service.

“So far we’re going from strength to strength.

What it’s allowing us to do is offer the whole solution. Our company statement is ‘quality solutions delivered on time’ and that’s what we’re about,” he says.

McNeill Pumping Limited “We’re able to differentiate McNeill Pumping from our competitors in the market through our recent integration of the electrical and automation aspects of our business.

“A key part of our business going forward is design and build. We’re able to carry out that whole process — we can design and build, install, commission and carry out any required routine maintenance.”

“We can sell, design and specify it. We can service and repair pumps anywhere, any time, 24 hours a day. We have it all covered now and that’s what makes us different from everyone else.”

Dawson says the benefits for McNeill’s customers are huge and include only having to deal with one person and one company, receiving one invoice for the entire job.

Christchurch branch 151 Waterloo Road Christchurch T (03) 349 4443 F (03) 349 4449 www.mcneillnz.com — Advertising Feature

McNeill Pumping’s services cover water, sewerage and effluent systems. The company can design, sell and repair any pump from a small household domestic pump right through to town sewerage pumps.

Complete service While the recent recession has brought some difficult times to McNeill Pumping, the company is now smarter going forward.

“We have varying markets in each of our branches, which helps. The Invercargill market is very much rural based, the Dunedin market is more industrial, Alexandra is lifestyle and irrigation and the Christchurch market is a combination of them all,” Dawson says.

Head Office 34 Arena Street Invercargill T (03) 211 0318 F (03) 216 6010

McNeill Pumping is currently working to consolidate its new business ventures and the subsequent growth in its markets. “It’s been a pretty busy 12 months and we want to consolidate and move forward to promote that side of our business,” Dawson says. “Historically, we’ve been a sales company and we’ve moved away from being a sales company to providing a complete solution.”

PUMPS

TANKS

PIPES & FITTINGS

FILTRATION

SCHEME DESIGN

SERVICE & INSTALLATION

Agents for Airwell Pumps, Authorised Grundfos Dealer, Exclusive South Island Dealer and Service Agent for Chemilizer, Grundfos Pumps, Airwell Pumps, Graco Diaphragm Pumps, Chemilizer Dosing Pumos, Baleen Filtration Screens, NZ Made Mechanical Seals.

Well equipped since 1918

Invercargill 34 Arena Avenue 0800 626 400

www.mcneillnz.com

Dunedin 15 Donald Street 0800 786 798

Alexandra 49 Boundary Road 0800 879 879

Christchurch 151 Waterloo Road, Hornby 0800 786 726

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 77

Initiatives | Cooper Webley

Delivering function

Cooper Webley is one of Nelson’s leading joiners — a company that places a strong emphasis on servicing the region’s growing commercial market.

The business, which dates back to 1964, was purchased by Noel and Sharyn Tait in 2006.

The past four years have seen the Taits work hard to grow their business, building a strong reputation as a key player in residential and commercial joinery. Cooper Webley’s work is split between three areas — residential kitchen joinery, commercial joinery and machining work for other companies.

Commercial capabilities The Cooper Webley team can take the fuss and stress out of commercial building projects with expertise in shop fit-outs, restaurants and cafes, hotel and motel kitchen fit-outs, reception counters, French doors, pre-hung doors, staircases, wooden windows, timber routed signs, storage solutions and product machining.

Cooper Webley has undertaken a range of significant commercial jobs in recent years, including the Nelson City Council’s newly refurbished reception area, which won the Nelson Registered Master Builders’ Commercial Project of the Year award. The refurbishment was built by Scott Construction, with Cooper Webley completing the fit-out with curved counters and its own Hush acoustic panels.

Other significant commercial projects completed

by Cooper Webley include the Murchison Sports Recreation and Cultural Centre, which involved manufacturing internal doors, a kitchen and the solid timber curved staircase. Cooper Webley also manufactured the bar and the lift-up shutters surrounding it.

“We’ve just done the new Air New Zealand hangar at Nelson Airport, which involved a new

reception counter and kitchens,” Tait says. “Last year the Saxton Field Sports Complex built a big netball/table tennis pavilion and we did various kitchens and a reception counter and shop area.

in conjunction with the builder and other tradespeople who are working on the project.

“We are also doing all the cabinetry and internal doors at the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology Arts and Media building, and various school refurbishments and early childhood learning centres.”

Last year Cooper Webley launched its acoustic Hush panels — a high-quality acoustic panel or decorative panel that greatly improves the quality of living and workplace environment due to its ability to absorb noise.

The company works closely with various architects and project managers on many of its large commercial projects. However, Cooper Webley can project mange any job

The grooved acoustic panel replaces hardsurface walls and ceiling linings and has been constructed in sheet form for easy use as a lining, or in panel form for suspended ceiling

Hush panels

systems. Tested by Marshall Day Acoustics, the panels are receiving strong interest and have already been installed in many commercial settings, including the Nelson City Council reception area, Waimea College gymnasium and St Josephs School Hall.

“We saw an opportunity to make this product and it’s being used more and more extensively in construction work,” Tait says.

Cooper Webley offers a quick turn-around on the panels, which are manufactured in its Nelson factory and are available in any wood-based sheet material, with a selection of finishes.

The Laminex Group, a division of Fletcher Building Products Ltd, delivers innovative fashionable surfaces solutions and joinery products and are proud to supply Cooper Webley Ltd. Manufacturers and suppliers of:

Proud to supply Cooper Webley with quality laminate and solid surface benchtops.

www.whk.co.nz better advice for a better life

53 Beatty St, Tahunanui, Nelson 03 547 35647

We have the total solution for kitchens and many other applications

PH 0800 303 606 info@laminex.co.nz www.thelaminexgroup.co.nz

64 Beatty Street, Tahunanui , Nelson P 03 547 0010 F 03 547 0016 joinery@cooperwebley.co.nz www.cooperwebley.co.nz l www.hushpanels.co.nzanels.

Joinery Designed For You Kitchens • Doors & Stairs • 3D Design Service • Panel Cutting • Reception Counters • Shop Fitouts • Design & Build • Internal Renovation • Wardrobes • Kitchen Reface • Acoustic Panels • Routered Signs • Timber Windows

78 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

with form

Focus on flexibility The ‘can-do’ attitude of Cooper Webley means any type of joinery manufacturing is possible.

The Nelson-based company is well known for its high-quality commercial and residential joinery and likes to think it can provide a solution to any problems. “We’re solution-based, not problembased,” managing director Noel Tait says.

He attributes the success of his business to its flexibility and willingness to be adaptable. “We push the boundaries and are flexible — we don’t just stick to one thing. We’re accommodating.”

Residential capabilities The team at Cooper Webley produces creatively designed kitchens, recognising the kitchen is more than just a function centre — it is at the heart of the home, as acknowledged this year with its joinery taking the Laminex Heart of the Home Kitchen Award in the 2010 Registered Master Builders’ House of the Year competition.

Each kitchen is individually designed by one of the company’s two qualified designers to suit any requirements and accommodate the vitality of each family.

A range of top-quality products are used, including Corian, Formica, Laminex, Granite, engineered stone bench and counter tops, stainless steel and timber joinery.

“With our residential kitchens we believe it’s our attention to detail that makes us stand out.

We deliver what the customer is expecting, not what we want to make.”

Initiatives | Cooper Webley Below: Cooper Webley can make the perfect joinery for any environment... from robust, sturdy style for a childcare centre to fulfilling the requirements for an exquisite designer kitchen or shop fit-out Opposite PAGE: Nelson City Council’s award-winning refurbished reception area

Cooper Webley tenders for many of its upmarket kitchens and is in the process of building a new kitchen at its own showroom in Beatty Street, Tahunanui.

“We’re using the new reconstituted veneer the Laminex Group is marketing,” Tait says. “We’re using that extensively in the show kitchen, along with stainless steel and stone-based products.” The new showroom kitchen should be completed and installed onsite by September.

In addition to kitchen joinery, Cooper Webley also manufactures joinery for bathrooms and laundries, including shelving units, storage solutions, vanities, wardrobes, doors, stairs and unique features. This is all made possible through the combined experience and skills of the company’s highly skilled joiners, machinists, cabinet makers and modern machinery.

Leading joinery software Cooper Webley’s commitment to offering only the highest quality joinery products is backed up by its Cabinet Vision Software by Planit Software. “It’s called ‘from screen to machine’.

We draw the kitchen joinery items with the software and we can send it straight to the factory floor, where they will make every piece of joinery directly off the drawing. It optimises and does all the machining,” Tait says.

“We’ve had it for two years. Benefits include greater accuracy and better use of materials.

It’s also a great selling tool, as it allows the customer to see exactly what they’re going to get prior to manufacturing.

“We can draw every detail, including the right colours. Every single detail we put in will come through in the manufacturing.”

Tait says while the economic recession affected business last year, Cooper Webley’s business has picked up this year and things are looking great for the future. “There’s a little bit more positivity out there now and the smaller jobs are starting to roll along again.”

Cooper Webley Limited 64 Beatty Street Tahunanui Nelson T (03) 547 0010 F (03) 547 0016 joinery@cooperwebley.co.nz www.cooperwebley.co.nz www.hushpanels.co.nz — Advertising Feature

HALSWELL TIMBER Your Timber Solution

New Zealand’s elite Cabinet handle supplier Proud to be associated with Cooper Webley

Native, Exotic & Imported Timbers Custom Machining

Proud supplier to Cooper Webley Ltd 133-137 King St, Timaru • Phone 03 688 0031 Email info@stardoors.co.nz doors with a difference

Proud to be associated with Cooper Webley Ltd 107 Bolt Road, Nelson P. 03 547 3044 | F. 03 547 3944

www.halswelltimber.co.nz

www.elitehardware.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 79

Property and Construction | Steel Grating

‘great’ into gratings

Putting

Business based - People Focused

Export/Import Airfreight Forwarding > Export/Import Oceanfreight Forwarding > Customs Brokerage > Supply Chain Management > Project Management > International Courier Services >

Andrew Logan - Partner Level One, 47 Cathedral Square PO Box 13474 Christchurch

Proud to be associated with Steel Grating

41 Edmonton Road, Hornby, Christchurch 8042 P. 03 344 2281 | M. 027 407 0249 www.tnlintl.co.nz

Telephone: 377 2900 Facsimile: 377 2999 DX WP21036 Email: lawyers@mmlaw.co.nz

PERRY METAL PROTECTION IS PROUD TO SUPPLY STEEL GRATING LTD WITH HOT DIP GALVANIZING Services include: Trailers, Handrails, Structural, Agricultural and a great deal more Contact us PH 0800 4468 347 5 Chinook Place, Hornby Also in Auckland, Tauranga, Hamilton and Wellington Galvanizing steel since 1974

www.perrymetalprotection.co.nz

Richard Montagu bought Steel Grating in 1997 when the business was struggling.

Originally, he, his wife and children would put together 3mm load bar gratings in the weekends which Montagu would sell during the week. After a lot of hard work, the company now has six employees and sells important products to clients around the South Island.

The company manufactures and fits a variety of economical and practical products for commercial buildings, the automotive and assembly industries, factories, oil installations, generating plants and food processing. “Steel Grating’s products can be utilised anywhere that ease of movement and safety is required for staff and merchandise,” Montagu says.

It recently refurbished salmon farms in Marlborough and built and installed tread walkways for dairy applications in Dunsandel.

products…  Stairs

Steel Grating’s stair treads are most commonly done in forge bar grating but can also be made in twistlock, mild steel and aluminium. Treads can be manufactured to any length and width. The company also provides floor plate nosings on stair treads for definition and yellow abrasive nosings for high definition and extra grip. Nosings can be easily attached onto open grating, checker plates, wooden steps, concrete and any problem areas to give non-slip properties and high definition in low light.

 Anti-slip flooring Steel Grating’s anti-slip flooring comes in pre-engineered, pre-formed non-slip sheets designed to fit onto existing floor surfaces. Tough and long-lasting, it gives complete safety in virtually all conditions. Easy to install and clean, it can be cut to requirements or trimmed on-site for a fitted finish.

 Fibreglass grating Strong and lightweight, Steel Grating’s fibreglass grating is non-sparking and fire retardant, easy to install and provides a corrosion resistant, anti-slip walking surface.

 Stanchions Steel Grating manufactures a complete tubular handrail system that can be fitted to any stairway or walkway. All stanchions meet required safety regulations.

Montague says the company’s aluminium grating has also been put over air conditioners at the University of Canterbury. “Our products are used by a huge variety of companies in many different ways.”

For Montagu, the clients are one of the highlights of his job. “There some great people out there. In one day I could be talking to customers from Napier to Invercargill, helping them get what they need. I really enjoy it.”

Client base

Steel Grating Limited 3 Mountview Place Hornby Christchurch T (03) 344 5325 027 221 3168 F (03) 344 5326 E steelgrating@xtra.co.nz www.steelgrating.co.nz — Advertising Feature

In the last 13 years Montagu has built up a solid client base, attributing this to the excellent service Steel Grating provides. “We’ve got business relationships that go back to day one.

There’s plenty of opposition around with not much difference in pricing but our regulars know that we will come up with the goods and that’s what makes us stand apart.”

SUPPLIERS OF STEEL GRATING | ALUMINIUM GRATING | F.R.P GRATING | BALL STANCHIONS 3 Mountview Place | PO Box 16-941 | Christchurch | Ph. 03 344 5325 | M. 027 221 3168 | F. 03 344 5326 E. steelgrating@xtra.co.nz | www.steelgrating.co.nz 80 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Property and Construction | Upright Scaffolding

Gateway to new challenges Lyttelton is a gateway to the South Island, an entrance for more than 250,000 people who arrive on cruise ships every year.

But it is much more than a gateway for tourists, Upright Scaffolding director Warwick Pfahlert says. “Its importance as a major industrial area is often overlooked. Lyttelton is a bustling port town with substantial opportunities.”

It’s also the home of Upright Scaffolding’s largest project to date. In the industrial area of Lyttelton Harbour, oil is offloaded from ships to holding tanks, before being trucked away or sent over

‘We have gained a solid reputation… by focusing on customers’ needs and providing a fast, efficient and safe service, at an affordable price.’

Warren Pfahlert, director of Upright Scaffolding

the hill by pipeline.

When a major oil company decided to build a new tank, Christchurch company Hendriks Blasters was selected for the sandblasting and preparation for the job. Upright Scaffolding has a strong relationship with Hendriks which led to the scaffolding company being selected to erect and maintain scaffolding.

Upright Scaffolding 34 Lowe Street Riccarton Christchurch T (03) 348 7385 E info@uprightscaffolding.co.nz www.uprightscaffolding.co.nz — Advertising Feature

The fuel storage tank was about 20 metres high and 30 metres in diameter. The project involved feeding scaffold frames inside the new structure through a small opening near the base. The six-week task saw as many as eight scaffolders working on the tank at any one time.

Crews worked under confined space permits with harnesses to erect the scaffold system for the contractor to undertake the interior surface preparation and sandblasting before sealing.

Once the scaffolding was erected it was covered in containment cloth to prevent dust spreading around the area from the sandblasting.

It took a week to dismantle the mammoth scaffold structure which was then erected on the outside of the vessel, for preparation of the exterior. “The clients were very satisfied with our workmanship and the project came in on time, regardless of the adverse weather working against us. This pays testament to both the quality of our work and the ease at which we can mitigate circumstances such as tight timeframes and poor weather,” Pfahlert says.

Upright Scaffolding has been family owned and operated since 1981 and has occupied its current Lowe Street site next to the new Blenheim Road bridge since 1949. The management and daily operations of the business are performed by Pfahlert’s sons Chris and Nick.

Six decades of experience in scaffolding services in Canterbury has seen the company develop a strong reputation for health and safety compliance, professionalism and work quality.

A greater proportion of the company’s work is in industrial and commercial sectors, with a range of marine based and associated works in the Lyttelton Port area. Upright Scaffolding has scaffolded many new and existing homes in Lyttelton over the years and become accustomed to dealing with narrow streets and steep sections.

“Over the years we have gained a solid reputation for providing great service to our customers. We do this by focusing on our customers’ needs and providing a fast, efficient and safe service, at an affordable price.”

Quality doesn’t cost, it pays.

So call the experts today!

Satisfaction guaranteed with over 35 years experience We abrasive blast anything from steel, wood, glass, aluminium, concrete & swimming pools through to large industrial requirements.

Proud to be associated with Upright Scaffolding Ltd Link Road, Belfast, Christchurch |PO Box 88 Kaiapoi Ph. 03 323 8582 | Fax. 03 323 7352| www.hendriksblasting.com

TANK MAINTENANCE (1986) LTD

On site at Dry Dock Godley Quay, Lyttelton for the past 24 years Specialists in vessel refurbishment UHP Waterblasting and abrasive blasting Spray painting Marine Industrial Coatings We are proud to be associated with Upright Scaffolding

tankmaintenance@xtra.co.nz Phone: 03 328 7102 Fax: 03 328 7101 P O Box 162 Lyttelton 8841

C YRIL CHILDS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT LIMITED Do you want to know each month the whole financial picture? Phone Cyril on 03 337 0076 or visit www.childs.co.nz We are proud to be business advisors and accountants to UPRIGHT SCAFFOLDING LIMITED

UPRIGHT SCAFFOLDING LTD

SPECIALISTS IN SCAFFOLD INSTALLATION – HIRE 34 Lowe Street, P.O. Box 9112, Tower Junction, Christchurch 8149 Phone 03 348 7385, Fax 03 348 2536 Email info@uprightscaffolding.o.nz www.uprightscaffolding.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 81

Property and Construction | Independent Doors

Opening doors

on windows of opportunity ‘We’re the business behind doors’ It’s a simple slogan but one that sums up the Independent Doors ethos.

HALSWELL TIMBER Your Timber Solution Building Reputations • Native, Exotic & Timbers • Framing & Finishing • Decking & Fencing • Flooring & Cladding • Custom Machining For all your specialty timbers, see the timber specialists

Proud to support Independent Doors 193 Halswell Road, Halswell, Christchurch Ph 338 9199 | Fax. 338 9231 www.halswelltimber.co.nz

Independent Doors works on any project to do with doors and this, as you’d imagine, covers a lot.

From big commercial jobs to fixing a sticking door for a domestic client, Independent Doors ensures it delivers on quality and customer service.

The company was formed in Christchurch 16 years ago and has grown into a successful business with 30 employees and branches in Cromwell and Timaru. Widely recognised among architects, contractors, designers, builders and other professionals in the building industry, Independent Doors has earned a reputation for excellence in its field, taking pride in providing superior products at reasonable prices.

Independent Doors managing director Kim Lewis says superior customer service and an experienced, dedicated team gives the company an edge over its competitors.

“Communication is key. When we do a measuring quote we let customers know when

the job is going into production and when it is expected to be completed.

on staff for all of your installation, alteration and repair requirements.”

“We always deliver on time — you don’t want to be held up waiting for doors — but if for some reason beyond our control we can’t, we let our customers know immediately.

We also have a qualified joiner and carpenter

Lewis says while Independent Doors has shipped products to the North Island, their home is the mainland. “Our focus is the South Island.

We’re South Island people and we like the way the South Island does business.”

Suppliers of quality Door Jamb components: • • • • •

•

Interior Door Jambs – Radiata Solid Clears/Finger Jointed Exterior Door Jamb Components Cavity Slider Components Supply to order native and imported timbers Free quote for all specials

Proud supplier to Independent Doors

133-137 King Street, Timaru

Phone 03 688 0031

doors with a difference 82 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

info@stardoors.co.nz

Proud to supply Independent Doors Ltd

Property and Construction | Independent Doors

external doors

fittings

Independent Doors leads the way in supplying quality exterior aluminium, tempored hardboard and timber doors to prestigious developments and homes through out the South Island.

During the recession, Independent Doors didn’t make staff redundant to cope with financial trials. Instead, it diversified into making and installing competitively priced, quality and attractive wardrobe fittings.

internal doors

cavity sliders

Independent Doors refuses to supply inferior grooved three millimetre skins because it feels they aren’t appropriate for the New Zealand climate of hot summers and frosty winters. The company can supply to your exact specifications and its doors can be pre-machined for hinges and locks, ball catches and flush pulls.

A cavity slider door is an efficient alternative to a hinged door, enabling the door to slide inside the wall, leaving the floor and wall space on both sides clear and unmarked. Independent Doors can make over-height and over-width cavity sliders, along with other specialist designs, like frameless glass and automatic closing units.

wardrobes

ultimate doors

Independent Doors supply aluminium framed wardrobes with gib, mirror, rimu, or MDF infills and MDF grooved infills to match your internal doors. These are a cost effective alternative to the standard double hung door wardrobe. Sliding internal doors are another option available.

These attractive aluminium doors provide style and elegance to any room at an affordable price. Ultimate doors can come hinged or in a cavity slider application.

door hardware Independent Doors shows its commitment to quality once again by stocking the time proven Windsor range of door hardware.

Independent Doors prides itself on delivering:  Excellent communication  Superior customer service  Only using quality products  Expertise in big and small projects  An experienced team  A quality showroom in Wigram  A website with an excellent image gallery.

fact file

 Started 16 years ago in Christchurch

 Thirty employees, low staff turnover

 Expertise centred on manufacturing and installing internal and external doors

 Big commercial contracts to small jobs

 Branches in Timaru and Cromwell

 Diversified into wardrobe fittings during the recession

Independent Doors Ltd 20 Dakota Crescent Wigram Christchurch 8042 T (03) 384 1113 F (03) 384 2277 E info@iddoors.co.nz www.iddoors.co.nz — Advertising Feature

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 83

Attention pet lovers did you know?

What you feed your cat or dog directly affects how long they live and the quality of their life. Not all foods are created equal. There is only one way to establish what you’re really feeding your pet...read the ingredients!

If you would like to discuss anything we’ve mentioned or would like to get sent some info and testimonials please give us a call, or go to our website to see the dozens of raving testimonials available. In fact a large number of clients are breeders, which is testament in itself, as these people take feeding their pets (their business), very seriously. These people normally spend a lot of time researching all options available and we’re pleased to say, they’re massive fans of our product.

In today’s competitive pet food industry, it’s hard to believe what may go into your pet food. Many companies (owned by multi-national corporations) have extensive marketing budgets, that portray a healthy pet jumping around, all thanks to their fantastic pet food. However, they seldom talk about ingredients. And to be frank, that is the most important element, followed closely by taste.

Because let’s face it, if your pet doesn’t like the taste, they simply won’t eat it.

(Unless it’s a Labrador....)

Here’s the most important bit.

The ingredients I’m not going to tell you how happy your pet will be or how high they will jump by using our pet food.

I’m simply going to give you a quick lesson about ingredients and what to look for and what to avoid.

The way ingredients are listed on packaging is the order that they are according to the percentage of food, so the first ingredient listed is the primary ingredient and so on down the list.

Some list “by-products” as the first ingredient, usually chicken or beef. Now this doesn’t have to be a bad thing. One of the many problems with byproducts is what can go into the mix. So for cows this can mean bones, hooves, hides, hair, intestines, or with poultry by-products it can mean feet, beaks, feathers, bones, intestines, as well as the small trimmings that are left behind after they have been boned out for human consumption.

interesting fact!

By law, by-products don’t have to include any meat at all in order to be called chicken or beef by-products.

Products with by-products will of course look like any other pet food biscuit. The organic chemicals that make up the mush that remains will still register as amino acids and proteins etc, yet the fact is that a large percentage of it will be completely indigestible to your pet’s digestive system. This means your pet will be unable to harvest goodness for its body out of much of its food.

This results in two things. First, you will have to feed more of the product to your pet to satisfy its nutritional requirements. Second, there will be more “unharvested remains” left to be picked up off your lawns. One of the huge benefits of feeding your pet a food that uses high quality ingredients is that there is less stool volume, because the animal is able to digest more of it. Another notable benefit

Here are results from three independent studies: 1) The Confidential Dog Food Report analysed over 2,000 pet foods and came up with the best nine. Canidae was one of them. The following dog foods available in New Zealand weren’t on the list; Beneful, Eukanuba, Iams, Pedigree, Purina One, Purina Pro Plan, Purina Dog Chow and Science Diet.

2) Each year The Whole Dog Journal (arguably the best dog journal in the world), rates dog foods from around the world and creates an “approved list” which includes approximately 25 foods. For more than 5 years Canidae has featured. The following

84 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

is that your animal’s stools will smell a lot better when they are fed a high quality, natural, highly digestible food that doesn’t have rancid meats and fats in it.

Canidae lists chicken and turkey meal as their first ingredients. Chicken, turkey and lamb meals are dry and are less than 10% moisture and contain 50-65% meat proteins.

Canidae and Felidae contain 10 skin and coat conditioners with balanced Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty Acids: chicken fat, fish meal, flax seed, sunflower oil, lecithin, linoleic acid, rosemary, sage, vitamin E and biotin.

Please go to our website or give us a call for the full Declaration of Ingredients. Without a declaration of ingredients, how do you really know what’s going into your pet’s food?

Why haven’t you heard of us?

Simply because we’re relatively new into New Zealand.

We have hundreds of satisfied clients and this year we’ve doubled the number of clients from last year and this is literally growing daily. However, Canidae for dogs and Felidae for cats have been selling in America for many years and are consistently ranked in the top few by leading pet journals and publications including The Whole Dog Journal.

We also don’t have the marketing budget of the huge corporations. In fact we have relied heavily on word of mouth, which works well, but we are now starting to do print and radio.

dog foods available in New Zealand aren’t on the list; Beneful, Eukanuba, Iams, Pedigree, Purina One, Purina Pro Plan, Purina Dog Chow and Science Diet.

3) Petsumer Report also does an independent study and ranks pet food out of five, with five being the absolute best.

Here’s some of the results: Beneful 0 CANIDAE

4.2 Eukanuba 2.7 Iams 2.7 Pedigree 1 Purina One 1.9 Purina Pro Plan 2.1 Purina Dog Chow 1 Science Diet 1.5

Here is a quote that I recently read in The Whole Dog Journal, arguably the best independent dog journal in the world. “I’d like to quickly dismiss the idea that any of the giants – Iams and Eukanuba, Purina, Science Diet - could possibly make dry dog foods that are as good as the foods that have a regular presence on WDJ’s “approved foods” list, (such as Canidae). The fact is, though, of course they could; they have all the resources needed to do so. They could bury most of the competition in the “natural and holistic” niche...if they followed through and used only the same high-quality ingredients typically used by the smaller, boutique brands. But they generally stop short – perhaps because they are unaccustomed to paying a lot for their raw materials, or marketing the products at a correspondingly high sales price.” - Nancy Kerns Save you time and money As mentioned this is a premium product, and if we sold in pet stores or vets, it would command a huge price tag. However, as we don’t have a “middle man” we can sell it at a price comparable to other “premium” products. In addition to this, your pet will actually require less, as he/she will actually be able to digest and utilise more of the food, which also creates less stools. In addition to this we will take the hassle out of driving to your pet store, lugging the food into and out of your boot, as we will deliver to your door free of charge.

Your satisfaction is assured every time you deal with us through our Make You Happy Guarantee If we ever let you down, we’ll ask “what can we do to make you happy?” So far we’ve never refused a customer’s request. And of course there’s a full money back guarantee on the product if your pet doesn’t like it.

re

r anywhe P.s We delive in NZ free Gary Collins, Owner

Call for a FREE sample and more information or call now to place an order. If you place an order this month WE’LL TAKE 33% OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER when you mention this advert.

You’re probably wondering what’s the catch? Well we know that almost everyone who buys from us once, buys again, and again, and again!

Ph: 0800 101 729 www.canidae.co.nz

Give her a life, not a life sentence Molly is an innocent child, but she faces a cruel future. She is an orphan and lives with her grandmother in a Nairobi slum. Her grandmother is sick and dying. Soon Molly could be completely alone. She’ll have no home. No way to live. And no one to care for her.

Without help from someone like you, Molly will join the other street orphans who live in packs, scavenging for food in the rubbish. She’ll suffer from hunger, cold and exploitation. Or worse, she won’t survive at all.

You can help rescue an orphan like Molly from a life of struggle and despair for just $20 a month, just 66 cents a day. Your regular gift will help to provide the clean water, food and care these vulnerable children urgently need.

Children like Molly are all alone in the world, and they are waiting to be rescued.

Please don’t leave it until it’s too late.

Join ChildFund Africa Orphan Rescue today!

Call 0800 223 987 or visit www.childfund.org.nz Mail the coupon. Do it now!

YES, I will rescue a child today!

1. My monthly gift: $20 per month My Choice of ____________________ a month 2. My details: Title ________ Name _______________________________________ Address

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________ Phone

____________________________________________________

Email

_____________________________________________________

3. Payment Method (please debit my): Visa

MasterCard

Diners Club

AMEX

Amex ID |_|_|_|_|

Cardholder’s name _________________________________________ Signature

________________________________

Expires

____/____

Please send coupon to: ChildFund New Zealand Freepost 3260, P.O Box 105630, Auckland City, Auckland 1143 Registered Charity Number CC10081 F509

www.canterburytoday.co.nz August/September 2010 | 85

THE NEW VOICE OF TALK RADIO 86 | August/September 2010 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

FINDSPACE aims to solve your ‘ space problems When it comes to finding your perfect workspace: • Why can’t you easily review all available properties on one website?

• Why can’t you easily search for a property that meets all your needs (area, price, car parks, features, location etc)?

• Why can’t you search for a property with 4 car parks, is within Post Code 8011 with 100m2 of Office and 30m2 of Retail Space?

• Why can’t you qualify listings by seeing the address and price?

• Why can’t you easily view how listings relate to each other visually?

• Why do you need to spend $498 to list a property that is for sale and lease?

Findspace solves all of the above frustrations, plus: • SpaceFinder – the most comprehensive Search Tool out there • ClientSpace – the facility to push your listings back to your own website • GroupSpace – the ability to view multiple listings on one Google Map • RSS Feed – get a real-time feed of all new listings that meet your needs • 100% Focus on Commercial Real Estate – no shoes, no cars, no houses!

• TickleMe – lets you promote a property that is ‘Not for Sale’ • FREE to list until the end of 2010

WWW.FINDSPACE.CO.NZ