Canterbury Today Magazine Issue #112

Issue 112 | April/May 2012

The lay of the land One year after landing the toughest role around, CERA head Roger Sutton surveys the state of play Making your team tick Tips and tricks to get your crew ticking like clockwork

A shaky reminder Casting an eye over events of the last year

Working from home The pros and cons of walking away from an office

Quick questions for…

Manufacturer Annie Giles casts an eye over the economic horizon • Options for the Christchurch City Council

• Strategic management for the modern company News | Initiatives | Interviews | Personalities | Information | Success | Profiles | Finance | Property | Sustainability | Export | Transport | Retail | Solutions | ISSN 1174-9520

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contents

Issue 112 April/May 2012

In this issue…

Viewpoints

Features

Business

6 Editorial

11 Making your team tick

32 Initiatives

The reputation game

Blunders to avoid, things to remember and local team building spots

Ideal Electrical helps create brighter futures, Brokenshire Engineering’s design delivery and how Alpha Equipment makes tools for any task

6 Governance Canterbury Today

Options for the Christchurch City Council

14 Cover story

7 Finance

One year after landing the toughest role around, CERA head Roger Sutton surveys the lay of the land

Issue 112

14,014 ABC circulation as at 30/06/10

The cost of ignoring revenue recognition changes

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

MANAGING DIRECTOR Gary Collins

Casting an eye over events of the last year

7 Management Strategic management for the modern company

8 Human resources Getting ready for performance reviews

GENERAL MANAGER Rebecca Harris

OPERATIONS MANAGER Di Barclay

ADMINISTRATION Kylie Moore ADMIN MANAGER Kelly Clarke Kimberley Wells Judy Slater Tayla Brown

8 Human resources

9 Public face

Making emotional health your priority

Ian Knott PRODUCTION MANAGER Carolynne Brown PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR Sarah Betman DESIGNERS Kirsty Opie Jarred Shakespeare Janelle Pike Phone:

03 940 4732

Fax: Email:

0800 555 054 production@academy.net.nz

24 Working from home The pros and cons of walking away from an office

10 Technology Should you blog on your company website?

25 Local hot spots Addington’s new lease of life

10 Events diary Courses, events and seminars near you

25

27 Destinations

A little slice of LA life, some far-out furniture, the ultimate accessory, gear for those on the go, a great gadget and top drop

63 In review

64

Designer items from Westende Jewellers and the perfect setting for that special day at the Valley of Peace

43 Goods & Services Hepburn Joinery shows how little things can make a big difference, getting into the right Headspace and sorting your heating needs before winter arrives with South Island Refrigeration and Heatpumps

47 Property & Construction Barrington Shopping Centre’s multi-million dollar revamp, HQ Construction’s mission to make smart homes, Viridian Glass looks at busy times, Habitat for Humanity creates places for all people, eyes in the sky with Hawkeye UAV and how Groundwork makes the most of concrete

64 Hospitality Let Festive NZ create your next distinctive display, high country luxury at Dome Hills, serving food with fun at Sevantis and making the most of your big day with some Interior Flair

70 Agribusiness How Irrigation NZ plan to keep it green, and clean

Ambling around Amsterdam

28 Lifestyles

03 961 5050 0800 555 054 editor@academy.net.nz

PRODUCTION

19 Quick questions for Annie Giles

EnaSolar’s mission to ensure all 2,200 new homes at Highfield have solar panels

9 Working life

Jonathon Taylor EDITOR Bridget Gourlay CHIEF REPORTER Marie Sherry Kayte John Phone: Fax: Email:

Why it might be decades before Christchurch life returns to normal

21 Let the sun shine in

A fate worse than death

NEWSROOM

17 In it for the long haul

The founder of fruit bar manufacturer Annies talks about the economic outlook for local businesses

Keeping young workers on point

SALES & ADVERTISING Steve Dando SALES EXECUTIVES Rob Cochrane George Ziegler Miranda Telfer Melissa Sinclair Kent Caddick Janet Campbell Melissa Kala Mogens Petersen Grant Williams Verne Williams

15 A shaky reminder

40 Focus

76 Transport & Motoring Tracking movements to aid productivity with GPS from Pauls Audio, Wheeler Motor Co’s history of keeping Cantabrians on the move and top tanks from Lowes Industrial

86 Been Seen

John Spence’s book, Awesomely Simple, examines the key to business success

55

14

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 2011 by A-Mark Publishing (NZ) Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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Quake inspires new venture and shift to Hamilton Business—friendly Hamilton is the new home of a former Christchurch couple whose house was badly damaged in February’s earthquake.

“We’ve made good contacts in a very short time with all types of people. Opportunity Hamilton, and everybody, has been very welcoming,” Stefan said.

Stefan Doll and Dr Adrienna Ember moved to Hamilton with their three children recently to escape the shaky city and to start their new business.

Starting afresh is nothing new for the couple, who previously lived in Adrienna’s native Hungary and Stefan’s homeland Germany before immigrating to New Zealand.

Stefan resigned from his job as a Christchurch City Council human resource manager to make the move after deciding Hamilton offered what his family wanted for a fresh start.

Waikato’s ranking as the second fastest growing economy in New Zealand, its size and proximity to Auckland and Tauranga were factors in their choice, but the region’s geological stability was the ultimate decider.

“Hamilton is growing fast, which is important. But first we looked at safety. Hamilton is the safest place in New Zealand when it comes to natural disasters,” Adrienna said.

Adrienna was set to launch a life coaching business when the February quake struck, ultimately inspiring the couple’s shift north to establish their business, the New Zealand Institute for Diversity and Wellbeing.

The pair contacted economic development agency Opportunity Hamilton, who used networking links to connect them with the Waikato business community.

“We would like to use the skills and knowledge that we’ve gained in our many years working in human resources, research, education and life-coaching to help business people and society. The topic of diversity is so important for businesses,” Stefan said.

They spent the last five months in Europe holidaying and researching diversity in the workplace before embarking on their latest venture.

“We want to show people here how they can work in a diverse workspace more efficiently and reap the many benefits of cultural and ethnic differences. This is the way things are heading in Europe and we can show New Zealand how to benefit too,” Stefan said.

Maximising the benefits of cultural diversity can improve access to new markets, staff relations and can enhance communication with different customer groups, they said.

“If businesses can find a way to extract the benefits of diversity the results are often astoundingly positive.

However, ignoring the challenges of diversity can be disastrous.”

The pair also hopes to attract international researchers to study New Zealand as an example of cultural diversity.

“We see New Zealand as a great example because of its unique history as a small, culturally diverse nation.

We hope to see New Zealand on the international research landscape,” Stefan said.

The pair will initially operate the business from their Hillcrest home and can be contacted at nzdiversity@ xtra.co.nz.

For further information on support available to Christchurch businesses wanting to move to Hamilton please contact: Opportunity Hamilton chief executive Rob Pritchard at rob@opportunityhamilton.co.nz.

April, 2012 Dear Christchurch business owner, The Hamilton business community is eagerly anticipating a fast and efficient recovery for you as you endure on-going aftershocks.

After the initial larger quakes in September and February Hamilton business owners pledged their support via the website www.hamiltonchristchurch.co.nz with offers of rent-free office space, donated equipment, fulfilling contracts on your behalf and temporarily employing staff while you recover.

Moving into 2012 it has become apparent that for some Christchurch businesses recovery will be difficult or impossible.

Therefore Hamilton is reaching out again, pledging support to any Christchurch business wanting to relocate to Hamilton.

After all, Waikato is a better choice than Australia!

Located in New Zealand’s growth triangle, Waikato is the fastest growing region in the country behind Auckland.

Hamilton is centrally located and is a great place to live, work and play. It is also geologically stable.

So if you are ready to make the move, we are right beside you.

Please feel free to contact me personally rob@opportunityhamilton.co.nz.

We look forward to welcoming and supporting you.

Kind regards,

Rob Pritchard Rob Pritchard Chief Executive Opportunity Hamilton Economic Development Agency for the City

www.opportunityhamilton.co.nz www.hamiltonchristchurch.co.nz www.investwaikato.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 5

Viewpoint | Society/Management

The reputation game

Reorganisation options for Christchurch City Council Michael Garbett is a specialist local government partner at the law firm Anderson Lloyd

Jonathon Taylor is the Editor of Canterbury Today Magazine

A romantic will tell you that to truly know something is to come to love it, whereas a pessimist will say familiarity breeds contempt. When it comes to cricket I find myself with a foot in each camp.

Cairns’ case was that the allegation was ‘’wholly untrue’’ and a libel which would destroy what he had achieved in a 20 year career if uncorrected.

I love the game, but not what accompanies it behind closed doors. However I suspect this to be more indicative of the times, rather than the game itself.

Now you can’t blame a man for defending his reputation, especially if he’s convinced he’s been wronged, but if the defence does more damage to your reputation than the initial insult, then you have to ask if it’s the wisest course of action.

Cricket is to ball sports that which chess is to board games - the tactical grand daddy of them all. What unbelievers don’t realise, is that, arguably, cricket’s most sublime and bewitching beauty is its unrelenting paradox; the game may amble along at a stately pace, yet the action occurs in the blink of an eye.

The infidel would have you believe you sit for hours on end and nothing happens, the believer knows that if you remove your eyes for the merest instant, you’ll miss a crucial moment.

Of course nobody in their right mind would dream of sitting through an entire match – that’s just crazy talk. Cricket’s time frames are from another age altogether and bear little relevance to the pace of life today.

Despite this, the onset of summer brings with it an eternal optimism for the fate of the Black Caps I simply can’t shake. It’s like a disease you see and is almost as fevered and deluded as a Welsh rugby supporter’s annual yearning for a sign, any sign, of the Dragon’s new dawn.

So I followed the career of Chris Cairns with interest. A bowling all-rounder, Cairns offered game changing counter-strike ability in the middle order and, ball in hand, extracted bounce, swing and seam to test any batsman.

When he called time on his international career, I doubt anyone questioned that, when on the park, he’d done anything other than give his all. So when I heard his name associated with match fixing I damn near fell off me chair!

It was a report on the libel action Cairns took against Indian Premier League founder Lalit Modi in the High Court in London for a 2010 Twitter comment suggesting Cairns fixed matches in the ICL Twenty20 competition.

Without exception, everyone I’ve spoken to about this trial had no idea in the world Cairns had been accused of match fixing; until he began formally defending himself.

The general consensus on defamation cases is that there are simply no winners; both sides end up with slurred reputations due to the nature of the trial being one big slagging match.

But if you throw enough mud, eventually some will stick and in the finest traditions of ‘where there’s smoke, there’s fire’ this trial has brought to light a Pandora’s Box of goodies.

Former Indian Cricket League anti-corruption officer Howard Beer said he had “no doubts” Cairns was involved in match-fixing on the strength of team-mate TP Singh’s statement, as well as “other allegations”. Four former team mates were rolled out to give testimony to Cairns’ guilt, and then there’s the issue of the $100,000 paid into a Dubai bank account in 2008 for work with a rough-diamond trader’s business for which Cairns could produce no documentation.

The public airing of these accusations and insinuations do illustrate one thing very clearly - if you want to protect your good name, there’s probably no worse way to do so than with a libel suit.

If things go well, you win the case and get given some money for the damages incurred.

But this doesn’t even come close to repairing the damage your reputation has taken, ironically, during the case taken to protect that reputation.

In his attempt to defend his name, Cairns has damaged himself to a far greater extent than Modi ever did.

Calls for an overhaul of the Christchurch City Council raise far reaching constitutional issues.

What are the options available to the Government and how might these work?

Existing local body legislation arms the Local Government Minister, with a range of legal options to intervene in Local government if necessary. Most of these options have checks and balances to ensure elected councillors are fairly dealt with before any move to intervene.

Under the Local Government Act, the minister could appoint a review authority to look at the performance of any council.

There are limits on this power and to do so they must decide: • If there has been a significant or persistent failure by the local authority to meet its statutory obligations or…

• If there has been significant and identifiable mismanagement of the local authority’s resources or…

• If there is a significant and identifiable deficiency in the local authority’s management or decision-making processes.

Following any such review, the minister could require the council to implement any recommendations. But if the local authority fails to adopt those recommendations, he could appoint a person, or people, to take over the functions of the council and act in its place.

The minister could also call an early election for the council. Such a process is likely to take many months for a review and requires ministerial action. This process also gives the council a chance to comply with recommendations of the Minister before ministerial intervention.

Commissioner Under present law, the Minister of Local Government can alternatively appoint a commissioner to run a council or to hold a new election if the local authority cannot meet certain criteria, requests the appointment of a Commissioner or is refusing to perform its duties. If the local

authority does not request a Commissioner, then the minister can only act if the local authority is unable or refuses to carry out its duties. This is an extreme situation and one that is rarely used.

Local Government Commission There are also powers under the Local Government Act for the public to request “reorganisation” of councils. A reorganisation can be commenced by a council request, the Minister of Local Government or a petition from 10 percent of electors.

Special Legislation Special legislation is a tool that enables the Government to tailor a structure and timeframes for a council that it wishes to achieve. Potentially this can happen very quickly, as was the case for ECan. Chief Executive Neither the Minister of Local Government, nor the Government, have any specific powers under existing legislation to affect the employment of chief executive Tony Marryatt, or for that matter, the chief executive of any council. It is only the council that has any power to manage the employment of a chief executive. New legislation would be required to effect any changes of this nature.

Conclusion The structure and election of local councils is seen as a fundamental part of our democracy.

Where there are existing statutory procedures enabling those structures to change, normally there is public consultation and opportunities for councils to remedy problems that arise.

Outside the existing structures, Parliament has the power to create any special arrangements or changes it sees as appropriate by new legislation.

Critical decisions need to be made on who leads Christchurch through the rebuild and beyond. The city will benefit from cohesive leadership at this time. Regardless of how the current debate plays out, it is also important that the people of Canterbury have the opportunity to have their say on the makeup of the city council, either through normal elections, existing statutory procedures or any special intervention that the Government may make.

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Viewpoints | Finance/Management

Revenue recognition changes are being ignored

Strategic management for the modern company

Mark Hucklesby is the national technical director at Grant Thornton New Zealand

New Zealand businesses have led the world in their lack of awareness of the proposed changes to the way revenue is recognised in financial statements.

International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) and US General Accepted Accounting Principles (US GAAP) for revenue (and some related costs) from contracts with customers.

The proposed changes improve current IFRSs and US GAAP by:

Research from a Grant Thornton International business report, which surveyed 2,800 businesses globally, found that 86 percent of New Zealand business owners were not aware of revenue recognition changes being proposed by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

• removing inconsistencies from existing requirements;

Of the 40 countries surveyed only Poland (96 percent), France (92 percent) and Finland (90 percent), showed greater ignorance of the proposed changes. The global average was 58 percent. The United States had the best knowledge of what was happening with only 40 percent of businesses being unaware of the proposed changes.

• simplifying the preparation of financial statements by streamlining the volume of accounting guidance.

The US awareness rate was not surprising given the focus the US places on earnings per share, but the real concern was that with less than a month remaining for public comment, the figures for New Zealand were surprisingly low.

Given the significance of the proposed changes, particularly for smaller businesses that provide turn key product and service solutions, it is disappointing to see this complacency How revenue is accounted for is extremely important. It is almost always the largest dollar amount reported in any set of financial statements and for many listed companies it is the first number that gets reported by the media. Auditors, as one might expect, spend a lot of time checking the revenue figures.

What has been overlooked by many is that later this year a global, accounting standard for accounting revenue will be introduced.

The aim of the changes proposed by the IASB and the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) was to improve and converge the financial reporting requirements of

• providing a more robust framework for addressing revenue recognition issues;

• improving comparability across companies, industries and capital markets; • providing more useful information to users of financial statements through improved disclosure requirements; and

The core principle of this proposed standard is that an entity recognises revenue from contracts with customers when it transfers promised goods or services to the customer.

The amount of revenue recognised would be the amount of consideration promised by the customer in exchange for the transferred goods or services.

I am staggered by the figures for New Zealand, as business owners in this country are usually pretty savvy about these matters, but our global survey clearly indicates these proposed changes have not received the attention they deserve.

While the closing date for submissions to the IASB and the FASB on revenue recognition were on March 13, 2012, New Zealand companies were asked by the newly created External Reporting Board (XRB) to have submissions ready by 20 February 20.

Given the importance of revenue to almost every business in New Zealand, this failure to comment may result in companies having to pay tax on earnings earlier than they previously have, given the Inland Revenue’s policy decision to use IFRS as the platform for revenue recognition for almost every large company in New Zealand.

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

Strategic planning and management has moved from highly analytical operations to that of using a more inclusive, creative, thinking process that actively engages all stakeholders and individuals within the company.

This move recognises that people who are actively involved in the business and care about their organisation, can and do make valuable contributions to planning the company’s future.

The essential principle of strategic planning remains the same – it is about making choices – between cost and or quality. Its whole purpose is to equip companies with a process to better make those choices.

The objectives are to find, develop and leverage competitive advantages that will enhance and sustain a company’s position and long term viability.

In their book ‘Exploring Corporate Strategy’ Johnson and Scholes say that strategic decisions are concerned with: • The scope of organisations activities • The matching of organisations activities to its environment • The matching of its activities to its resource capability • The allocation and or reallocation of major resources in an organisation

Don’t just plan – think The traditional methods of developing strategy have been usually led from the top i.e. CEO down and fewer considerations were made to those people below line management positions.

The CEO has overall responsible for strategy formulation and must be able to see the big picture and take a longer range, broader business perspective.

My advice to CEO’s is; step back from the day-to-day tactical details of the business and focus on the “why”, not just the “what” and “how”.

CEO’s should encourage information flow and strategic conversations. This can be done through regular briefing meetings, staff training and development, encouraging communication and creating an organisational culture that embraces teamwork and cooperation.

Always start with a clear statement of the organisation’s objectives so that provides the necessary focus to direct efforts and resist distractions or unnecessary digressions.

Strategies must be developed from insights, foresight, considering scenarios of what is and what might be… trends, fresh ideas, creativity, and intuitive hunches.

Organisations that actively involve their people in the process of strategic planning will create a team with a greater ability and agility to change and adapt.

An immediate benefit will be in achieving a unified acceptance of the action plans.

• The values, expectations and goals of those Secondly your colleagues will know you value influencing strategy their opinions and ideas.

• The direction the organisation will move in There is a link – good ideas, planning and the long term prompt implementations do lead to increased profitability. The ability to predict and control • Implications for change throughout the your business future is a prize worth chasing. organisation – they are therefore likely to be complex in nature Strategic planning is actually deciding on which strategy is best for the organisation to adopt, planning how that strategy can be put in to effect.

Strategic management is the doing – actually making the plan happen.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 7

Viewpoints | HR

Performance reviews

Keeping young workers

Paul Robinson is the director of Randstad New Zealand, a Fortune 500 Company and the world’s second largest recruitment and HR services provider

It’s that time of year when many employers conduct their annual performance reviews.

While employees often dread the ritual of sitting down with their manager to evaluate their performance, you can avoid the sweaty palms and nerves by being in control and making the most of the opportunity.

you would like to get involved with in the coming year. Set goals, objectives and targets.

Don’t be defensive: Constructive criticism from your manager should be expected.

When confronted with a legitimate critique, take a solution focussed approach and identify how you plan to correct and show appreciation for the fact they’ve highlighted it to help you improve. If the criticism is not justifiable, it’s best to stay calm, question it, ask for example or proof and take it on board. Apologise if necessary and then if you feel the need to respond, do so, after the review once you’ve had time to reflect and get advice on the issue.

A performance review should be used as an opportunity to reassess career paths and clarify expectations from both perspectives.

The overall goal is to build trust and manage expectations. As an employee, it’s important to be honest about what you want from your manager and those who take responsibility for defining their goals for the coming year will always fair better than those who treat the review purely for salary adjustments and promotions.

Performance reviews should not bring any surprises, rather confirm the themes, issues and achievements addressed throughout the year.

If you feel you are due for promotion: be prepared to show how you have been effective or you have excelled expectations.

Come up with a list of all accomplishments achieved over the year. Be as factual as possible in expressing targets met or exceeded, deadlines met ahead of time, new skills acquired, products/processes or procedures introduced. Demonstrate your commitment to ongoing learning, leadership and leadership development as this will help make you stand-out for the promotion.

It’s important to set aside some time to prepare well for the periodic review. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your next performance review: Understand the criteria: Try to determine your company’s main focus, the important decision-makers and their criteria for measuring success. Then determine the criteria for your area/division of the business and how they connect.

Do your homework: Take some quiet time to think about what have been the highlights and low points of the year for you. Be honest with yourself — what has stretched you? What have you found too easy? Where are you struggling? Write down facts and examples. Even better, throughout the year, keep a record of significant behaviours, challenges, critical incidents or anything else noteworthy as they happen.

In addition to providing tangible information and proof of your achievements, think about whether your role has expanded with more duties and responsibilities. Can you demonstrate a greater rate of efficiency or an increase in revenue generation and/or performance? All of this will help with your request.

With the start of the year, many companies would have acquired a number of younger employees.

The bad news is they will only keep getting younger as they come into your industry. The good news is that this generation can be one of the easiest to deal with… when you know how to.

The fact they are younger means they can be quicker at doing tasks, because of one key element: their energy.

Keep the discipline intact, but allow leeway

Many employers I’ve talked to credit quality and pace of work of younger employees to the energy, they have to keep going. The question is: how can you find this potential energy, and gear it towards meeting your workplace’s goals and work load?

Don’t give staff the special treatment all day just because you ‘understand’ they’re busy with their social/family lives/commitments.

Work is work, so make sure you’re sticking to the rules (or a Code of Conduct you might have in your office) that everyone is aware of.

Here are a few thoughts around how Like a common parenting principle, if you you can keep the company’s younger don’t stick to the rule you set once, your kids employees’ productivity intact over the year. are more likely to keep bending the rules because they think they can get away with it.

Set targets Many times, I consult with companies where their younger people are under-utilised because they can sometimes perform and adapt new skills faster than other employees. In the past, perhaps you’ve noticed some of them ‘slacking off’ while they claim all their work is ‘finished’, or they’re ‘on track’.

At your next team meeting, present the targets and results you want to achieve before your yearly quarter, or before a given number of months is up, and get everyone’s buy-in to get it done as individuals and as a team.

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Having said that, if you can allow for some extra leeway during the year, give these as rewards for target achievement, or recognition. An example could be, to give them an extra 10 or 15 minutes lunch break. It might sound simple, but they will appreciate the ‘gift’.

Have a look to see they in fact have enough work. Boredom can set in easily for young people and they won’t be the ones to come to you to ask for more tasks. Young people of today think in achievement milestones, rather than time. So, instead of sticking to the ‘you need to be working X hours on this project’, give them milestones they can achieve.

LOOKING FOR STAFF? •

Young people’s competitiveness may set in to do jobs faster and as long as it’s friendly, you will be amazed at how much productivity can go up. It’s a culture you can put in throughout the year, and it’s a win-win because it gives young people not only motivation to work towards goals, but a chance for them to belong to a team, meaning less chances of them dropping the ball – because they want to get the year over and done with! Turn the working year into a time-frame to pump out the most work.

Get them on-board

Think about what’s next for you: Identify your own development needs and what

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Viewpoints | Public face/Working life

A fate worse than death

Karen Degen is the owner of Set Free with EFT, a company that focuses on changing mindsets to create business success

A study of people’s worst fears placed death at number seven. It seems we find at least six things to be far worse than death, with the most feared of all being speaking to a group.

Countless surveys and studies over the years have placed the fears in different order, but the number one fear never changes – fear of public speaking. The vast majority of professional roles involve some level of public speaking, from participating in meetings to giving presentations to clients.

It’s rare for a professional to divulge this fear to their employers so it goes undetected and untreated, with the result being ongoing inferior performance in this area, or complete avoidance of the situation. It is quite common for someone to call in sick on the day of a presentation.

One size does not fit all when it comes to treating this problem. It’s essential to look beneath the fear and find the contributing factors. One common contributor is the loathing many sufferers have of being looked at or being the focus of attention.

Underneath this will be yet another contributing factor, often the fear of being judged or falling short of the task.

Underpinning this will be the core issue, which will be unique to the individual, as we all have different life experiences. Often the only way to find it is to seek professional help.

If you prefer to self diagnose, one of the best ways is to ask yourself “why” five times. For instance: Why am I feeling this way about speaking to this group?

Answer: I don’t like being the focus of attention.

Why don’t I like being the focus of attention?

Answer: Because I feel scrutinized. Like they are thinking I’m not good enough.

Why will they be thinking I’m not good enough?

Answer: Because I’m not good enough and I know they see that.

Why do I believe I’m not good enough?

Answer: Because I got sent away to boarding school when I was nine.

Why do I think that means I’m not good enough?

Answer: Because they didn’t send my sister and brother, only me. I’m the only one they didn’t keep so I can’t have been wanted. I can’t have been good enough.

Of course this is a very simplistic way of looking at it and the human psyche is rarely simplistic. Often there are multiple core issues. Sometimes the core issue is a time we have failed in front of other people in the past, often in childhood.

A memory from childhood can seem unimportant in adulthood and often carries no obvious emotion when it’s brought to mind, but the complex human brain can make connections at a subconscious level.

The thought of speaking to a group can subconsciously trigger emotions connected with that event, impacting on the ability to speak effectively, or at all.

For many it is not something as obvious as having given a poor speech in childhood. Far more common with sufferers is a situation in the past when they got something wrong and everyone looked at them. The feelings of embarrassment and humiliation remain in the subconscious mind waiting to be triggered by the next time they are looked at by a group of people. That ‘group of people’ may be any situation where more than one person is present.

If more than 40 percent of people rank their worst fear as speaking to a group, it’s likely that someone in your workforce is hampered by it, and if they are hampered by it so is your business.

In a professional environment people are generally unwilling to admit to this fear.

According to Mark Twain however “There are two types of speakers: those that are nervous and those that are liars.”

Emotional-health goals must be your priority Dr Mary Casey is the founder and CEO of the Casey Centre, a leading integrated health and education service

A healthier diet and regular exercise are arguably the most common personal aspirations, but improving your emotional and mental health shouldn’t be ignored, because exercise, diet and other tangible goals are then easier to meet.

The reason we make resolutions in the first place is to be happier, more creative, more aware of our direction in life and improve our sense of wellbeing. Arguably the largest obstacles to these are negative emotional states.

Negative emotions are hugely toxic to our health. It’s now commonly accepted that holding onto stress, resentment, anger and fear for years at a time can lead to myriad of health problems, including high blood pressure, thyroid diseases, hair loss and heart disease. In fact, it has become accepted by health professionals that most diseases in some way have a stress-related component. It’s surprising, then, that more of us don’t focus on improving our state of mind.

My top seven resolutions for 2012: 1. Prioritise your happiness and health.

It’s important to decide for your health and happiness as number one. As simple as it sounds, if you don’t have these, you are not in a position to contribute to others or yourself. Everything stems from here.

2. Spend more time with the right people. Rather than resolving to spend more time with everyone – which can be exhausting – spend time with people who are naturally positive and uplifting, and who are going in the direction you want to go in.

You’ll find these people have an energising effect on you.

altogether from particularly toxic people. Your health will thank you for it.

4. Reassess your happiness at work. This is must for those in negative work culture that’s leaving them feeling overworked, uncertain of their future, anxious or stressed. It’s important to know that as an employee you can address the issue with your manager. If you know you can’t, it may be time to look for a healthier work environment.

5. Review your daily routine. It takes courage to admit there are decisions we ourselves make that deflate us emotionally – from accepting a job with a long work commute, to running around too much, to not giving ourselves enough ‘down’ time every day, to spending too much and putting ourselves in financial stress. By resolving to develop a strategy to solve them, you can be in an entirely different place by the end of 2012. And you’ll be glad for it.

6. Don’t let any negative emotions control you. Negative emotions – however small – can overwhelm anything positive. Resolve to develop awareness of when you’re feeling upset or frustrated before it spoils your day.

Examine what can you do personally to make yourself feel better? Each time you begin to feel down, take a walk in the park or go out in the sun to help centre you. Nature and movement nurture positive emotions.

7. Strengthen your relationships. Deep and meaningful relationships, not just with your life partner, but with all those close to you, are important for a fulfilling life. Make a list of all the factors you need for a meaningful relationship, identify what you do not want, and stick to your guns.

3. Deal with toxic relationships. You can identify relationships by the way they make you feel. Stand your ground, set your boundaries and make it clear to them what behaviour you won’t accept – even with family. You may need to disengage

INTELLIGENT FLEET LEASING AND MANAGEMENT Call 0800 743 5338 or visit www.sgfleet.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 9

Viewpoints | Tech

News | Events Diary

Should I have a blog on my website?

Suzanne Carter is the business development manager for Limelight Online Ltd, a website design and development company

This is a common conundrum so the aim of this column is to put forward the case as to why having a blog on your website is important to your business.

A blog provides you and your business with an opportunity to share your expertise and knowledge of your industry and your product/ service. It is a good way to gain and enhance your trustworthiness and credibility to existing and potential customers.

product or service online. This will help with allowing your blog to show in search results for relevant search queries.

Another tip is to try not to include too much jargon or industry terminology, particularly if your target audience is not likely to understand what you are talking about.

Writing for your audience is very important.

If you include reference to your products or services, then you should include a link to the relevant section of your website so readers can find out more.

It can also be used as a way of providing news If you do decide to have a blog on your site and follow the above tips the results will about your company or general news about speak for themselves. your industry.

Blogging really is a great way to interact and engage with your customers and potential customers online. If you send out newsletters a good idea is to add some introduction text to your blog topic and then link to your website so that it can be read in full.

Allow for the ability for people to add comments to your blog as this just increases customer engagement.

The other reason why it is important to have a blog on your site is because it helps with the visibility of your website in search engines such as Google. Basically, search engines love fresh content on a site and monitor the frequency of content updates. This means having a blog is a great way to have regular, new content showing on your site.

Having quality and informative blog entries also means that you increase your likelihood of building backlinks to the blog itself. And this, from a search engine optimisation perspective, is an all important part of helping to make your site more visible to search engines.

If you do have a blog, or decide to integrate one into your website, it is important to blog regularly – once a month at a minimum. Of course this can raise time issues for busy business people, so, rather than take on the task yourself, why not ask other staff members to contribute to the blog as well.

When writing a blog try and remember to include keywords - these are the words that people are likely to use when looking for your

Is social media worth the effort?

Thousands of companies have jumped aboard the social media movement, as it allows you to reach out and engage with a wider audience than you perhaps could with offline forms of marketing. This in turn can help with driving more business. Think of it as the modern day version of ‘word-of-mouth’.

Friends or followers are easily able to give feedback on products or services and feedback is valuable to a business. If it’s bad feedback you can work to fix the problem, if it’s good you can thank people accordingly.

There are so many people in New Zealand and across the world that you might not normally have the opportunity to reach out to. Social media allows businesses to do this relatively easily through a few simple Facebook posts or Tweets.

Great customer service is key to creating a great company. If someone expresses a problem with a product or service via social media platforms, you can engage with them in real time to try and resolve the issue, before too much bad ‘word of mouth’ gets out.

Events diary

What’s happening on the business and entertainment front

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4

wineries to gold medal olive oil makers are some of the delicacies on offer to tempt the tastebuds.

Let’s Learn Environmental Lessons From China – Jonathan Watts – Riccarton Park function centre China faces major environmental challenges with fossil fuel pollution, water shortages and deforestation tied to its extraordinary economic growth. Jonathan Watts, Guardian Asia correspondent and author of When a Billion Chinese Jump, is visiting New Zealand for a national speaking tour. He will talk about the dramatic impact of people and industry on China’s environment and the lessons – and opportunities – for New Zealand. For more information visit www.service-is-paramount.co.nz THURSDAY, APRIL 12 Shoestring Marketing – Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce The ‘no cash, still flash’ approach to getting your message out. Just because you have little or no marketing budget doesn’t mean you can’t get your message out there effectively. All you need is a bit of knowledge and insight into leveraging the free, low cost tools and techniques available. To register visit www.cecc.org.nz WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11-15 The New Zealand International Jazz and Blues Festival – North Hagley Park Events Village The New Zealand International Jazz and Blues Festival has a stellar line up of local, national and international jazz and blues talent including world renowned jazz trumpet maestro James Morrison, with Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, a collaboration celebrating the life and work of Duke Ellington.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18 Strategic Business Development Vincent Nugent & Associates A one day workshop focused on enhancing the sales person’s ability to identify opportunities, set long-range goals, develop strategies, and execute action plans for major accounts. To register visit www.vincentnugent.co.nz

Businesses need to be aware of what is happening in their industry and what their competitors are doing - social media allows you to track the competition.

SATURDAY, APRIL 21

Getting started on social media may be quite daunting at first but it can soon become fun and develop into an integral part of your marketing plan.

Celebrating the wonderful food and wine of Banks Peninsula, The Akaroa Harvest Festival showcases the region’s most spectacular offerings. Award winning

Akaroa Harvest Festival – Akaroa Recreational Ground

www.facebook.com/YouthtownChristchurch

Check out Youthtown’s holiday and term programmes

10 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

TUESDAY, APRIL 24 Introduction to Business Seminar – IRD Starting a business? Go to the IRD’s free seminars to learn about Working smarter with our online services, Business structures income tax. For more information visit www.ird.govt.nz TUESDAY, MAY 1 Managing Your Debt Recovery - Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce Most businesses struggle with slow paying customers. Implementing good systems helps avoid accruing too many bad debts and acting as a bank for your customers. At what point however do you decide what your options are when payment isn’t forthcoming? This workshop will cover what the alternatives are to insolvency, and what insolvency involves.

To register visit www.cecc.org.nz THURSDAY, MAY 3 Business Ethics – New Zealand Institute of Management Southern Participants on this course will gain the appropriate skills and confidence to understand what ethics is, appreciate their own personal ethics and understand and use the tools available that support ethical behaviour in the workplace. To register visit www.nzimsouthern.co.nz TUESDAY, MAY 22 Organisational Planning and Financial Performance – New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants By attending this course you will gain an understanding of how corporate policy setting, the business planning process and the development of financial budgets, drives the operations of a business to improved financial performance. You will also gain an improved ability to relate business plans to financial budgets for your clients or businesses. To register visit http://events.nzica.com SUNDAY, JUNE 3 Christchurch Airport Marathon – Christchurch International Airport Inspired by the 1974 Commonwealth Games Marathon, the Christchurch Airport Marathon event is renowned as one of the fastest courses in the world. But it is also one of the most scenic and supportive. For more information visit www.christchurchmarathon.co.nz

News | Teamwork

Making your team tick Teamwork is defined as, “co-operative or co-ordinated effort on the part of a group of persons acting together as a team and work done by several associates with each doing a part, but all subordinating personal prominence to the efficiency of the whole”.

In simple words, teamwork is a set of activities, performed by team members, to fulfill a common goal that is decided by the organisation.

This leads directly to the benefits of building teams and, of course, team building exercises.

Team building exercises can be used by any business, large or small, to promote teamwork in the workplace, and as most business owners and managers know, great teamwork is one of the key factors associated with a company’s success.

By Kayte John

Common teamwork blunders Communication If you have a problem with someone in your group, talk to him/her about it. Letting bad feelings brew will only make you bitter and want to isolate yourself from the group. Not only does it feel good to get it out, it will be better for the team in the long run.

The blame game

There are many different reasons why companies use team building exercises, these can include: improving communication, boosting morale, motivation, ice breakers, learning effective strategies, improving productivity, learning about one’s strengths and weaknesses.

Teamwork can be rewarding, but at times it can be difficult and downright frustrating. If there are poor communicators on your team, you may often feel confused, let down or misunderstood. Here are six common blunders to avoid in the workplace in order to create a successful team.

People in your group will lose respect for you if you’re constantly blaming others for work that’s not getting done. You’re not fooling anyone; people know who isn’t pulling their weight in a group. Pointing the finger will only make you look cowardly. Be open and honest - it will earn you a lot more respect.

Support ideas If a teammate suggests something, always consider it – even if it’s not the best idea you’ve ever heard. Considering the group’s input shows you’re interested in other people’s ideas, not just your own.

Boasting It’s one thing to rejoice in your successes with the group, but don’t act like a hero. Doing this will make others regret your personal successes and may create tension within the group. You don’t have to boast to let people know you’ve done a good job - have faith that people will recognise when good work is being done.

Listen Look at the person who’s speaking to you and make eye contact. If you’re unclear about something that’s been said, ask for more information to clear up any confusion before moving on. Effective communication is a vital part of any team, so the value of good listening skills shouldn’t be underestimated.

Get involved Share suggestions, ideas, solutions and proposals with your team members. Take the time to help your fellow teammates, no matter what the request. You can guarantee there will be a time in the future when you’ll need some help or advice. And if you’ve helped them in past, they’ll be more than happy to lend a helping hand.

Communication is key

By Corazon Miller

Humanity in the virtual world

Imagine the freedom – gone are the four walls holding you in, no chains attaching you to your desk, your hours are yours to do as you please – no it’s not unemployment – but the reality for many people working in a “virtual team.”

“Caring, talk, personal conversations and story telling are forms of discourse which can establish a mood of support and encourage self-disclosure and the sharing of feelings,” Holton says.

“As social beings, face-to-face interaction will continue to play a very important role in our relationships regardless of how virtual our environment may become. A wise virtual team leader will also seek to build Such a team doesn’t conform to the traditional opportunities for face-to-face meetings into office structure; rather they are spread across virtual team work whenever possible as a the globe, communicating virtually by phone, means of enhancing team understanding and email, Skype, text – saving both money accelerating intra-group bonding.” and time.

So how should we do it – as a starting point The bonuses aside – there are challenges to we have provided three quick keys – to unlock creating a sense of team work within a the door to virtual success. virtual team.

Globalisation, technological advances and tightening budgets have pushed a boom in the numbers of virtual teams.

3 keys to managing a virtual team

Facing the challenges

Innovative leadership

Strategies need to be put in place to deal such challenges. Virtual teams, like any other, need the same things all teams need – a clear mission, an explicit statement of roles and responsibilities, effective communication pathways and learning opportunities.

A virtual team needs a manager who provides clearly defined direction. Team leaders need to formalise roles and responsibilities.

Judith Holton an executive consultant for the Holland College on Prince Edward Island in Canada says a virtual team needs a solid base of trust and collaboration to work effectively.

Having a virtual team means a vastly different culture of decision making. Try out different ways.

She says techniques can be borrowed from the face-to-face environment and adapted to virtual work, in order to enhance trust – but there is no quick fix. “By focussing attention and time on virtual team building it is possible a team will experience enhanced collaboration and cohesiveness.”

A stagnant image peering out of the computer screens lacks authority, body language can help you develop interpersonal skills which cross the virtual medium, and can help you develop influence.

Creative decision making

Communication – use your body

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 11

News | Teamwork

Teambuilding destinations

Leading your team

Teambuilding events are a great way to get out of the office and get to know your fellow colleagues more. Days out or weekends away boost morale and can create a better working team.

Managers need to inspire their staff to ensure top-performing people remain with them so that their business flourishes as the economy improves.

Seagars – Oxford

Dome Hills Lodge – Oamaru For an authentic high country experience visit Dome Hills. The sheep and cattle station lies a 45 minute drive northwest of Oamaru, near Danseys Pass. The lodge and working farm is perfect for a small team wanting to spend the weekend horse riding, trekking, hunting and fishing or to simply relax in the rural surroundings.

Team building at Seagars offers hands-on action around the kitchen. The programme offers a learning experience that will keep colleagues entertained. The group creates their own lunch and retires to a private dining room to enjoy it with local wines. www.joseagar.com

www.domehills.co.nz

Terrace Downs – Darfield

Adrenalin Forest is a mental and physical challenge that allows people and teams to push themselves to their limit. It can cater up to 120 people for team-building events. Many options are available including catering, flag races, night openings and combos.

Terrace Downs features a wide selection of resort-owned and operated activities. Onsite team activities range from clay pigeon shooting, archery, jet boating and golf to spa and beauty treatments. Within the immediate area there are numerous walking tracks, authentic high-country stations providing farm tours and terrain ideal for hunting, fishing, scenic helicopter flights or four wheel drive tours.

www.adrenalin-forest.co.nz

www.terracedowns.co.nz

Adrenaline forest –Christchurch

There are many non-financial incentives employers can put in place to inspire people and ensure their company is a great place to work. What is clear, is that motivating staff is more important now that employees are feeling more confident about their career prospects and may be searching for other opportunities.

One of the most effective means of motivating your staff is to recognise their achievements. One-on-one coaching is another effective method of firing up your staff and scheduling refresher training sessions with all staff. So here are some great ways to keep staff on point, motivated and enthused.

• Be able to easily communicate the organisation’s vision, missions, and values to others • Be adaptable and flexible and not bound by a plan. A leader can easily move from one set of circumstances to the next • Be decisive. A leader must be able to wade through information, understand what’s relevant and make a well considered decision, taking action based on that decision

• Staff morale in many organisations may be in the doldrums in the aftermath of the downturn as employees have struggled with heavier workloads, and possibly longer hours, with no additional pay or other compensation.

Managers should take steps to turn any pessimism around before it hurts productivity • Make your employees part of the solution.

Employees need to be involved in decision making, because their buy-in is critical for motivation and performance • Offering non-monetary benefits is another great way to inspire staff. Offering new training programmes, career development, cross training, even flexible work schedules are great alternatives when your organisation can’t afford to pay salary increases • Make sure employees can measure their own performance against Key Performance Indicators. This is a key element of employee motivation, because if a worker cannot measure their progress, it’s unlikely their progress will improve • Finding a way to reward your people will inspire staff. It’s especially important that employees feel a sense of accomplishment in their work. Set up proper recognition and rewards, so they can feel a sense of teamwork and can be acknowledged for their efforts during difficult times.

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12 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Call Andrew Brydon P: 03 982 5282 | M: 021 327 587 E: office@brydon.co.nz

Stronger offer from United Steel Builders and construction engineers have a greater choice than ever from United Steel. The company brings together the manufactured steel building products from long-time industry stalwarts WirePlus as well as the product range offered by distributors SteelPlus.

Bigger range

“Having all our steel building products from nails to wire mesh to steel reinforcing under one roof makes it easier for people in the building industries to get more of what they need by dealing with just one person,” says Matthew Sutherland, manager of United Steel in Christchurch.

“And although we have united under a new name, we have served the New Zealand construction industry as sister companies for over 20 years.”

New testing equipment

As part of United Steel’s ongoing efforts to supply New Zealand builders and construction engineers with quality building products, the company has made a significant investment in its own manufacturing and testing equipment.

The testing equipment allows United Steel to exhaustively test every batch of steel mesh to ensure that it meets or exceeds industry standards. Randomly selected samples from every batch are tested for tensile strength, yield strength, uniform elongation and weld strength.

The new equipment is currently being used in conjunction with independent third-party testing until the necessary certification of the equipment is obtained.

Heavier construction mesh

Following the development of the seismically robust Ductile Plus 500E wire mesh (SE62 and SE73DE) for residential requirements last year, United Steel has now expanded the range to meet the requirements of heavier construction with the introduction of Ductile Plus SE72, SE82, SE92 and SE93.

“These new ductile construction meshes are ideal for heavier concrete slabs,” says Matthew.

“Naturally, they meet the latest building standards for seismic resistance.”

Local business for Canterbury

www.unitedsteel.co.nz

“The new products we develop and the care we take with the testing are all aimed at ensuring United Steel can supply our colleagues in the building industry with quality locally made products that can withstand the rigours of our environment,” says Matthew, “especially in Canterbury with its recent history of seismic activity.”

TM

Cover Story | Roger Sutton

Roger Sutton As we head into autumn, it’s amazing to think about what Christchurch looked like this time a year ago.

Only several weeks after the earthquake to most of us, in April 2011, the city centre was simply out of bounds; it lay derelict and crumpled. Homes were abandoned, but no one knew what their fate would be. Pummelled by aftershocks, we were taking stock of our lives and trying to come to terms with what nature had dealt us.

“

Today the CBD and some suburbs are almost a blank canvas; most of what is going to go has gone. Empty lots lie vacant, but in architecture offices around the city (and around the country) plans are being made to rebuild on these sites.

I am immensely proud of the people of Canterbury – their resilience and strength and the way that we have come together with hope and a determination to rebuild our city and our communities.

This time a year ago, the then Orion CEO, Roger Sutton was being head-hunted to be our ‘earthquake czar’ – to lead the newly created Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority as we collectively stared into years of extensive rebuilding.

He took the job and has begun our long journey to recovery.

Canterbury Today caught up with Roger Sutton to find out where he thinks we are at.

Nearly a year on from taking the CERA job, are we where you wanted us to be?

Since my appointment to the role of chief executive of CERA, I have strived to do everything I can to fulfil the role of leading the team at the forefront of Canterbury’s earthquake recovery.

While we are working hard to restore the buildings, the infrastructure, the economy and the land – it is the people that are at the heart of everything we do. I am immensely proud of the people of Canterbury – their resilience and strength and the way that we have come together with hope and a determination to rebuild our city and our communities.

Over the past few months we’ve made some really good progress.

• CERA has released the draft Recovery Strategy – it’s the overarching document that a number of other plans feed into.

”

There’s about $2.5 billion worth of infrastructure work to be done. It will take about five years to fix, but will be done at a rate about ten times faster than has been achieved in the city before. About a thousand workers are out there every day.

I know there are people out there though that are still waiting for a decision on their land. It’s been a long wait.

• We are able to give a growing number of people certainty about their land – for a number that means being able to go ahead with rebuilding or repairs.

My message to them though is that these last decisions are the hardest and the most complex. We’re working as fast as we can to make the right decisions that will deliver the very best outcomes we can for them.

• Progress is being made identifying other areas and land that can be used for building new homes.

Every day people are facing challenges. We can all have moments when things feel like they are getting on top of us.

sustainable, comprehensive and completely robust recovery.

What do you do in your downtime?

For me, my weekends are precious. When I’m not out for a run or riding my bike, I am dedicated to spending quality time with my family.

At work, I have the support of a great team that I know I can trust and rely on. I think all of us at CERA can honestly say that we feel a great sense of pride in playing our small part in helping Christchurch get back on its feet. It is that sense of purpose that helps us stay positive.

I think that is a real testament to the strength of the Canterbury character. Don’t get me • A number of businesses and commercial Of course there can be days where it is hard to wrong, I know there are people out there still property owners have certainty about their stay positive but it’s important that we all find doing it tough. Really tough. But what I am buildings and have been able to make sure about is that there is always someone our own way to deal with the challenges we there to help if needed. plans. Work on rebuilding the first multi-storey may face. building in the CBD has commenced.

There won’t always be a quick fix but What gives you the most hope for a problem shared is often a problem • We ran our Central City Survey to get a better the future? halved. Sometimes the best way to cope picture of how property owners, tenants and We achieved a lot over the past few months, with the pressures in our own lives is to help consumers want to see their CBD rebuilt. but some of the stand outs for me include lighten the load in someone else’s. seeing the recovery start to happen so These are testing times and ultimately it is up early – sometimes in small ways, such as a to each of us to guide how we feel about the business restarting, through to the restoration events surrounding the Canterbury quakes in of utilities and the resilience of the overall the years to come. economy.

Each of us will draw on our own experiences A great amount of effort went into looking and reflect on how it has shaped us. For the after people’s welfare – more than ten city, there will definitely be a sense of before thousand winter heat installations were and after. There are unique pieces of our city’s carried out and the health system handled a culture and heritage that have been huge challenge very well. lost forever.

Cordons in the central city have reduced However, each of us now has the rare significantly and in spite of the June and opportunity to shape a bright future for a city December aftershocks we are still on target we are all proud to call home. for the CBD Red Zone to be completely gone around April this year.

It has been a tough year and there is a lot more hard work ahead. But it is work that we People, communities and businesses have shown incredible resilience and determination are committed to. I know that in years from over the past year. We’re all working towards now we will be able look at what we have achieved with pride. a recovery strategy that will underpin a

14 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

A

shaky

reminder

News | A shaky reminder

As a former UK-Europe Bureau Chief NZPA media correspondent, Kip Brook is no stranger to putting his thoughts into words following a crisis. From Christchurch, Brook gives his take a year after the events of 22.2.11 Like its iconic cathedral, much of Christchurch is slowly rocking itself to pieces. It is yesterday’s city with shipping containers protecting people and motorists from quakes.

Other containers are prized open like sardine cans used for safe shopping precincts. This is a city like no other.

We’ve now had 40 earthquakes between magnitude 5 and 6 here in Christchurch since September 4, 2010. We’ve had over 10,000 quakes in total and nearly 600 quakes have been five kilometres or less in depth. As a result tens of thousands of homes and buildings are destroyed and being pulled down or have collapsed.

The swanky new Park Terrace twin tower blocks overlooking leafy Hagley Park are coming down. The Copthorne on Durham St – gone; the Crowne Plaza – coming down; the Grand Chancellor, coming down; Manchester Street – pretty much empty; it goes on and on.

A Papanui House after June 13 earthquakes.

The pace of deconstruction is phenomenal, as much of Christchurch is slowly being

flattened. It’s now a year since the fatal quake of February 22 that claimed 185 lives and this is a time for those families so greatly affected by it.

But big shakes on June 13 and December 23 last year cannot be under-estimated in terms of structural damage and mental anguish. The two big jolts just before Christmas sent many people packing. Others have felt the anger and despair.

Physical scars and empty lots of a battered city are plain to see, while mental anguish remains high following predictions from GNS Science that Christchurch has an 82 percent chance of a 5.0 to 5.4 aftershock, a 39 percent probability of a 5.5 to 5.9 earthquake and a 13 percent probability of a 6.0 to 6.4 shake in the next 12 months. The jolting is relentless.

The face of Christchurch has already changed forever. We here have all changed; some with emotional scars; but most of us feel privileged to be alive. We can’t see inside our central city. Our office blocks, cafes, restaurants, bars, hotels and city shops that have survived are still cordoned off. From the barriers, it looks a terrible brooding mess in there.

Auckland psychologist Sara Chatwin of Mindworks says there is an impact on people who remain here.

“Notwithstanding that they see their city and their lives changed dramatically and they have to deal with daily stresses, the quakes have also meant that people are forced to think about their future. The quakes have meant that people have had to re-think everything and come up with alternative life and living plans, in a very short space of time.

Continued on page 16 >

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 15

News | A shaky reminder Continued from page 15 >

“`Certainly, the people of Christchurch will have experienced many emotions and emotional states. If left unchecked and unsupported people may go on to develop anxieties and concerns, even behavioural patterns that are maladaptive. “While the rest of the country has been horrified by these events and have tried to help, no-one except those in Christchurch can realise the enormity of the situation,’’ Chatwin says.

New Zealand’s worst natural disaster keeps on causing chaos; even in everyday life. My suburb once had three or four churches– they are gone. The corner dairy, deli, florist, women’s clothing shop, cafe: gone. The local supermarket is no longer operating. The potholed patch roads have suffered damage on damage.

The mood and atmosphere around the streets and suburbs of Christchurch is one of seeking to make life better-somehow.

The hesitant rebuild has started, including shipping container shopping precincts. Global earthquake experts say it will take more than 20 years for life here to return to normal.

Most people that remain here are resilient and positive and keen to move forward; to fight, not flight. Communities and people are stronger for it all.

Christchurch will never be the same again but what it will become is not in the hands of designers or planners but in the spirit of the proud people that have survived and stood strong through it all.

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And so it is, into the third successive year of earthquakes, more are expected, for years to come.

The most English of New Zealand cities is now pretty much wrecked.

Christchurch will never be the same again but what it will become is not in the hands of designers or planners but in the spirit of the proud people that have survived and stood strong through it all.

A St Albans house and car after September 4, 2010;

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The soul of Christchurchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage has been buried by the series of shuddering quakes.

Babies born into Christchurch will grow up not knowing any different than their strange twisted city. seventeen months on since the September 4, 2010, earthquake Christchurch is still the only city in the world with its central city area closed to the public.

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News | Patience game

In it for the long haul

Opinion | Rebecca’s rant

Rebecca’s rant

In what might not come as a massive surprise to locals, an earthquake expert says it could be decades before life in Christchurch returns to normal.

Compared to other similar global quake disasters, long-term recovery for Christchurch is a 15-20 year horizon, says Mary Comerio, professor of architecture at the University of California in Berkeley.

Comerio led the US Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI) team to Christchurch after the September 4, 2010 earthquake and co-led the team after the February 22 event last year. EERI members have been working with many scientists and engineers in NZ in trying to understand the impacts associated with those events.

Comerio says it will take up to two years to demolish all the unsafe, severely damaged buildings. “And it takes anywhere from two to 10 years for investment funding, construction and long term finance, professional design and of course, on top of it all, for the city to get organised about what kinds of development will or will not be allowed, and for developers to be confident about investing.

“None of these things happen quickly at the best of times and in a post-disaster situation there is a great deal of waiting to see who will go first. Ultimately, redevelopment is about large-scale real estate investment, and in a weak economy that will be slow.

“In addition, land has to be cleared, not just from debris but for clear title, and that takes some time, given that owners of demolished buildings have to settle debts with banks, decide if they will reinvest or sell, etc. It all takes time.’’

She was interested to hear about the Peterborough village precinct in the Christchurch CBD, as they are looking for alternative new designs for buildings to sit lightly on soft land. They are staging a workshop inviting local and international designers and engineers.

“We have lots of soft soil in San Francisco, known as bay mud, along the water’s edge, but we did not have the extensive liquefaction that you had in Christchurch. As such, we have pretty traditional approaches to foundation design for buildings - usually deep piers, which are expensive. Of course, new technologies do get proposed, and there is typically a detailed engineering review before the city accepts these on a case-bycase basis.’’

The central CBD is still closed off to the public as it has been for more than a year. Many blocks will lose all the high-rise buildings.

Some blocks will be without any buildings.

However, the good news is a geotechnical report by engineering consultants Tonkin & Taylor reveals all land within Christchurch’s

central city can be rebuilt on. The executive summary of the Geological Interpretative Report, part of the final draft Central City Plan, says; “no areas within the CBD or adjacent commercial areas were identified as having ground conditions that would preclude rebuilding on those sites”.

But the report does say that: “more robust foundation design and/or ground improvement may be required”.

Miyamoto Cardno director Michael King says, from a structural standpoint, soils can be dealt with by different means to properly support different types of buildings.

“There is a large difference between the foundational requirements for a high-rise structure and a low-rise one. There may be recommended building types for different soil conditions based upon the effectiveness of foundation design and also the cost,’’ King says.

“Buildings can stand up to ongoing earthquakes on soft soils. The buildings, if designed or built properly, will be resilient and can take many shakes and keep going.

“You can definitely build on soft land near the river; there are several methods for foundation designs that are suitable for these sort of soil conditions. Rebuilding in the red zone and CBD is absolutely possible.”

King says the biggest challenge to rebuild in the red zone/CBD was getting investors to commit to the area. He says everyone was scared – and understandably so. But proper designs and installations would transcend the uncertainty that was preventing people from moving forward.

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

To be honest, this rant is about myself; I’m angry at myself about how fed up I am with traffic and roads around our city these days. I should not be wound up, I should not be agitated… I just need to deal with it.

In reality there is far worse that we have been through and in many cases still going through, and I should not be moaning about it – but I am.

A trip to get to work in the central city (from North of the Waimak), that used to take me 20 minutes, now takes a good hour to an hour and 20mins on some days. The route is around the back of the city on Johns Road, by the airport and down to Birmingham Drive. It’s crawling traffic in the mornings.

I spoke with a colleague this morning who was coming from another direction, a seven minute journey via Brougham Street, which now takes 20 minutes and sometimes more.

The fact that we even have the discussion about the inconvenience is frustrating. I should have moved on by now and accepted that this is just the way it is now, until we are all patched up.

I moan when we are damaged, broken and inconvenienced. I moan and groan when we’re being fixed and inconvenienced, so when will there be an opportunity to not moan and groan and feel sorry for myself because I’m so inconvenienced by slow and disrupted traffic.

I have come to the realisation that I just need to get over it, get up even earlier than I do and try to get ahead of the traffic, but here’s another moan... groan… rant, whatever you want to call it… it’ll soon be winter, darker in the morning and I’ll be getting up even earlier… someone bring me some happy pills!

I need to get over myself, and my poor, inconvenienced life and just accept it. Oh please… how pathetic, it could be much, much worse!

And going from one city office to the other and back again, taking 20mins each way, in the middle of the day means that’s close to an hour down the tube when it really should be six minutes - considering the distance is only 5.4km.

What makes my frustration (at myself) worse (apart from the fact I even find this important enough to rant about), is that the majority of the delays are due to contractors upgrading, widening or fixing our roads.

If they didn’t do this I’d be moaning as well.

I’ve moaned for a good number of months now about the state of our roads, now finally the fix us underway, but I’m still not happy.

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“Once people understand that risks to earthquakes is a manageable thing – the need to use engineering to design buildings to withstand larger forces than what was previously thought appropriate for Christchurch, and this can be done in an economically feasible way.

“Buildings can stand up to ongoing earthquakes on soft soils. The buildings, if designed or built properly, will be resilient and can take many shakes and keep going.

He says there are many obstacles in the way before Christchurch becomes a bustling city again in 15-20 years time. It would require a focussed effort across all parties working together (investors, developers, insurance, local government, etc) in order to make this happen.

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Quick Questions | Annie Giles

Quick questions for

What does the year 2012 hold for your business?

Annie Giles

“Building on the growth we experienced in New Zealand and Australia last year and investing in better and new products and developing new export markets. To do all of this we will be investing in more people.”

Canterbury Today asks local business owners about issues facing their industry. Annie Giles, founder and operator of fruit bar manufacturer Annies, talks about the economic outlook for 2012.

With the ongoing problems in Europe, the economic situation which we’ve been buffered from via our Asia/Australia exports could really hit home. What do you think it holds for New Zealand?

“It will be tough, but New Zealand is in the food and high-tech businesses that the world wants and needs. We are an incredibly small part of the world economy and this provides us with opportunities to prosper even when economic activity is suppressed. The high exchange rates will continue to adversely affect export revenue but we have to believe this is cyclical.”

What will the Government need to do to handle this?

Buying Annies products It’s really easy to buy from the Annies website, particularly if you want to purchase in bulk. In New Zealand you can also buy from most Foodtown, Countdown and Woolworths supermarkets and some New World and Pak N Save stores. A number of dedicated health food and organics stores also stock the products.

“Just like successful companies, the nation should be doing everything to improve revenues, so the Government should be doing everything it can to encourage export businesses to be successful.”

On a brighter note, what are you most excited about for our future?

“That we can utilise technology to neutralise our distance from the world disadvantage and use it to grow businesses based here that will attract and hold out talented people here.”

Fleet expansion opens doors to business growth The addition of more than 500 new wagons to In the first six months of this financial year bulk freight revenue increased by almost 10 the KiwiRail train fleet has enabled solid and percent due to the highly productive dairy on-going growth in the rail freight business. season and continued demand for forestry The new wagons have quickly taken their products. place as the workhorse on the rail network, Hill says KiwiRail, like others in the domestic says KiwiRail Freight general manager Iain freight business, were experiencing the Hill. impacts of a subdued economy and reduced “There is no question the expanded wagon demand from Christchurch. fleet combined with our new intermodal “However we expect this business to increase containers, the 20 new locomotives and the once the Christchurch rebuild gathers extended Aratere is providing a significant momentum and we have the capacity to operational upside for our customer and we meet that growth. have seen growth as a result of this.

“Not only has the new rolling stock delivered extra capacity particularly during critical timegates, but we are now in a much stronger position to respond to short notice requests by customers for additional volumes.”

KiwiRail last year oversaw the first phase of a major fleet replacement programme with the arrival of 535 new container flat deck wagons, each with a tare weight of 56-tonne, 20 new locomotives and 258 curtain-sided containers.

Aimed specifically at the domestic freight market. The Aratere ferry last year received a 30 metre long mid body extension allowing for an additional eight rail wagons per sailing.

KiwiRail’s half year results show that its core business of rail freight has experienced an 11 percent increase in revenue to over $220 million. Bulk, domestic and import-export freight, carried on the rail network and across Cook Strait represents more than 60 percent of KiwiRail’s revenue.

The stand-out performer for freight was the Import Export (IMEX) division which recorded an increase in volume of 16 percent and a revenue increase of over 12 percent to more than $61 million.

“The combination of new locomotives, wagons and longer ferry means we now have the capacity of an extra train service a day available during the most critical time slots to allow a two-day delivery between Auckland and Christchurch.”

Two versions of the container a 48-foot and a 25 foot are in use and present a similar set up to that used by the trucking industry and already familiar to shippers. The all-important capacity boost these containers give has been quickly absorbed by customer demand.

The 25 foot version to be known as ZXTs, are available for general inter-island siding traffic between Auckland and Invercargill. These will supplement the old ZH fleet and allow the retirement of older curtain sided wagons.

The larger containers, known in their combination with flat decked wagons as XF, are dedicated to existing freight forwarding customers that have a pallet footprint of 26 pallets, rather than the 20 or 24 in the older wagons.

The introduction of the new locomotives in the North Island, has allowed a dozen locomotives to be reallocated to the South Island. This, together with the new wagons being used on truk routes between Auckland and Invercargill, has allowed for a substantial expansion of the South Island rolling stock pool to meet the growing demand for rail services.

Big, red and out there They are big, red and out there, providing user-friendly additional capacity for freight forwarders keen to use rail as their line haul provider.

The new curtain sided containers now being deployed onto the rail network to supplement older wagons are getting positive response from customers pleased with the arrival of new rail equipment. www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 19

Quick Questions | EnaSolar

Quick Questions for

Alan Booth of EnaSolar

Since the February 2011 earthquake, there’s been lots of talk about how Christchurch can rebuild in a green sustainable way. Our city’s newest subdivision will be doing just that – all 2200 homes at Highfield (near Belfast) will have solar panels.

Bridget Gourlay went to EnaSolar, the Christchurch company that designs and manufactures these devices, to find out more. She talks to the company’s business development manager Alan Booth.

Why solar – why is it such a good solution?

“Other than in city centres nearly everyone has a roof, the sun shines most days and it is an unlimited and free natural resource. It’s a proven technology. Materials and installation costs are falling as the technology develops, there are no moving parts, and it’s quiet and efficient.”

How much can people actually save?

“Usually between a third to a half of their power consumption. The biggest issue is people don’t believe it works without bright sun. Actually, solar works on nearly every country on the planet…even in Scotland! You should put as much solar on your roof as you can afford to. A good consumer size should produce at least half of what you use and sometimes up to 75 to 100 percent. Some homes get paid back by the power company because they generate more than what their house consumes.”

What about when we don’t get enough sun?

“In Christchurch for example we can capture about 400-700 w/m2 most days. There are very few days when we do not have enough sun to run a solar inverter. Solar systems do not need bright cloudless direct sun all the time. They can generate power even on cloudy and rainy days; it will just be less efficient on those days.”

Isn’t it super expensive?

“The average price for a 3kw installation in Christchurch is about $12,000. Not a lot when you consider what it can save you over time when you know that power is only going to increase in price, year on year.”

Who buys solar panels from your company – is it local businesses and homes, or do you sell to people overseas?

“We export the majority of our products to distributors and installers in the UK, Western Europe and Australia. Globally, when we get our products in against the big global competitors we start to replace them. We aren’t cheaper – we don’t compete on price but on quality.

“New Zealand is however becoming much more aware of the benefits of a home solar installation and we have seen sharp increases in interest over the last 12 months for both domestic and commercial installations. We employ 200 people at this factory. We were in the red zone on Tuam Street and when it all fell we had to come here and had to rebuild, regrow, put it all back together.”

“

New Zealand is ideally placed to be a leader in renewable energy. Most families live in their own home and every home has a roof that is in all likelihood suitable for solar installation.

“There is a massive and long term export opportunity available to those willing to engage. This has recently been brought home and made highly visible with the rebuild of Christchurch. We are already working with private builders and developers around designing green buildings for the rebuild right from the planning stage. Solar is not being left to the end as a retro fit.

”

“The world will be watching what we do with Christchurch and we have an opportunity here that could potentially deliver massive foreign trade to those companies willing to get involved in the renewables sector and at the same time make New Zealand one of the lowest carbon contributors with the highest uptake of renewable energy sources. This can only be a good thing for all.”

How do you recruit staff? Is this a specialist field or can any engineer/industrial designer be hired and trained up?

“Designing and developing an inverter is a highly complex undertaking and most of our staff are recruited locally as we all know New Zealanders are recognised globally as being innovative and technically astute. With regard to installing, most competent electricians with some specialist training from a manufacturer such as ourselves would be capable of the most complex installation.”

Do you see this field, of innovation around energy use, as being something New Zealand can really play a part in?

“New Zealand is ideally placed to be a leader in renewable energy. Most families live in their own home and every home has a roof that is in all likelihood suitable for solar installation.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 21

News | Business Tip

Getting things done It’s time to review your high level strategy again

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

“If you don’t have a competitive advantage, don’t compete.” - Jack Welch

The pace of change is such that many industries are being transformed seemingly overnight and in many cases, entire new industries are being created. According to science-fiction writer William Gibson, “The future is here. It’s just not evenly distributed yet.”

Albert Einstein once said; “If I had an hour to solve a problem and my life depended upon the solution, I would spend the first 55 minutes determining the proper question to ask. Once I knew the proper question, I could solve the problem in less than five minutes.”

your industry as well as identify the key strategic moves you must make in order to survive and thrive in the future. Some of the key factors to be considered include:

conducting business on a larger scale - with greater cost efficiencies than competitors. E.g.

McDonalds with their move to healthy food choices and espresso coffee “Need Seekers” (Customer Intimacy): These companies continually research their target market customers to ask them what they want, and develop new products and services based on the customer needs they identify. E.g. Penske (truck rentals) expects every manager at every level, including the CEO, to call at least 10 customers every week.

“Technology Drivers” (Product Leadership): Most customers cannot imagine the future According to IBM; for your business model to beyond their existing experiences. These be of value in the future it must have three companies seek to lead their customers into core elements: the future via new technology. E.g. Apple with their track record of being first to market with 1. A unique strategic position that defines who new product innovations. you are The business model

2. A strong grasp of future market trends and the strategic moves you need to make to navigate them 3. A high level of profitability - either a lower cost base than competitor firms - or a highly differentiated offering that cannot be easily copied.

Failing to ask the ‘proper questions’, on a regular basis leads to many firms being caught on the back foot with obsolete business models. The signs of emerging future Business model innovation trends are all around us, but sadly, too many Booz & Co. describe three types of business firms fail to lift their heads out of their day to day operations to address them, unaware that model innovation: they may be walking down a blind alley.

“Market Readers” (Operational Excellence): These companies focus on incremental change It is vital to conduct a disciplined strategic by keeping pace with proven market trends analysis (at least once a year) to understand the trends and their future implications for and are able to maintain superior profits by

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The five competitive forces that shape industries An excellent framework for strategic analysis can be found in Michael Porter’s five forces model.

strategic moves to maintain a competitive advantage. Amazon, firstly with their online store, then the move into e-readers, then into tablet computers to provide a portal for their “prime” customers to directly access all of the content on their platform - is a good example of a company that seems to understand how these forces play out.

Macro forces - P.E.S.T. It is also important to look at the broad macro-level forces and how changes in these factors can impact your firm: • Political factors (e.g. laws and regulations, actions by Governments) • Economic factors (e.g. growth rates, interest rates, customer purchasing power) • Social factors (e.g. demographic trends, changes in people’s behaviors, attitudes, preferences) • Technology factors (the pace of technology change is accelerating – do you REALLY understand the implications of the word “accelerate”?)

1. Rivalry between existing competitors 2. The threat of new entrants 3. The threat of substitution 4. The bargaining power of suppliers 5. The bargaining power of buyers Companies must regularly evaluate their strategic position relative to trends in each of these five forces and choose the appropriate

Based on all the factors outlined above, how sure are you that you have a winning strategy for the future?

Article kindly supplied by business execution experts RESULTS.com. For more information visit www.results.com

News | Top Tips

Top Tip:

CVs and cover letters

By Bridget Gourlay

So you’ve spotted your dream job. Even better than being a chocolate taste-tester or an underwear model scout, this is the sort of work you actually fantasise about doing.

There it is, the company you’ve always admired is actually looking for someone and you meet all the criteria! But how do you get noticed, or at least get an interview so you can wow them in person?

Here are some Top Tips on the fine art of CV and cover letter writing, sourced from employment experts Tom and Gaynor O’Neil’s book ‘Selling Yourself to Employers’ and from Rachel Rose of seek.co.nz.

DO - Make it snappy For both your cover letter and your CV, don’t send in volumes of information. Your cover letter should be only a page long and your CV only a few pages. This means you have to select and highlight the most important information about yourself and your ability to do the job required.

DON’T - Be a secret squirrel “Your resume is your brochure – it must ‘sell you’ to employers just as a travel brochure sells travel to an exciting location,” the O’Neils write. Not only does it need to show your best qualities, but it should be well-presented.

Spelling mistakes, oddly structured sentences and grammatical errors make you look sloppy and possibly uneducated. Get a friend to read over it carefully and get them to give you honest feedback about if you’re selling yourself well.

DO - Show you are well-rounded The O’Neils say you should include your voluntary work and interests because they say a lot about you – “for example, team sports indicate a team player in the

DO - Keep it relevant

workplace.” Rose agrees, saying you could list things such as your professional affiliations and memberships, knowledge of foreign languages and special accomplishments such as awards.

“If you’ve been in the workforce for some period of time, simply list the position, company and dates of your earlier or least relevant jobs,” Rose writes. “You are not obliged to list every job you’ve ever had, but you should highlight relevant experience whenever it occurred. A tactic for older job seekers is to only list jobs since, say, 2000.”

When it comes to education, begin with the highest level of educational achievement and leave out details about high school if you have a higher degree or qualification.

Remember its experience, not qualifications that matter. So make the education section follow the employment details in your CV unless you are a new grad or you are pursuing an academic position where your educational achievements are more relevant.

DON’T - Include details you don’t have to Rose says it is no longer usual to include details under headings such as gender, age, marital status, religion, ethnicity or health.

“Some experts strongly counsel against including these details. It can make your resume look dated and this personal information is not relevant to your ability to do the job. If any of the factors are relevant and an employer has an exemption to discriminate on these grounds, mention the appropriate information in your cover letter.”

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News | Working from home

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Working from home

By Vivienne Hussey

You may think working from home is an easier and more flexible option than the hassle of commuting into work each day, power dressing, sharing your workspace with colleagues you don’t particularly like, and having to navigate your way around the minefield of workplace politics. While technology has made it easier than ever to work from home, you can get just as stressed as you can at work.

Trying to achieve the perfect work-life balance can also be especially difficult.

Not having a manager or supervisor constantly dictating your working day when you work at home does give you a certain freedom and feeling that you are more in control of how you manage your day, but you have to be disciplined.

A lot of your working day can be wasted by allowing the slightest distraction around the home to take you away from those boring, mundane jobs that need completing. Or you can end up having your work take over your home life, going without breaks, ignoring your family, working weekends and burning the midnight oil long after you should be in bed.

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Not having any working colleagues to interact with during the day can be too isolating for some. Or the frustrations of having to interact with your business associates and working colleagues by phone, email and fax can be too inconvenient and not give instant results.

Plus you have no colleagues on hand for help, advice and support, no one to bounce ideas around with, or provide back-up.

Guilt can also creep in when you work at home. A series of trivial, but time consuming tasks, such as the laundry or dishes can eat into your working day. You can also feel guilty that you take time out to have morning tea, or lunch, when there is work waiting to be completed. It is very difficult to separate home time from work time - the boundaries can become blurred.

Dress down days end up being every day, as you don’t have to worry about following a dress code. Some days you can find that you end up being chained to your desk before you have had time to change out of your pyjamas. You wake up, the phone goes, you get distracted by work and before you know it its midday.

24 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Of course that is the time when you get an unexpected visitor, and you know they are looking at you quizzically, thinking that you have spent the morning lazing around in bed.

Also because you are no longer a nine to five employee, with an office, an impressive title and position description, your work can be met with a lack of interest and not taken seriously by friends and family. They think that you just do a little bit of work when you feel like it, and spend your day having endless tea breaks whilst flicking through magazines and catching up on day time television. So they are always surprised when you can’t drop everything at a moment’s notice when you are home all day.

It can be frustrating constantly reminding people that you work from home, and you don’t suffer from agoraphobia, especially when your friends and family look at you with pity, and tell you that you need to get out more.

Working at home, maybe in your own business, can bring with it administration headaches and if you are not that way inclined, it can be an extra burden to your working day.

Having a good accountant or admin support is a necessity if you don’t want to spend hours on your own business paperwork. Luckily there are lots of web based accounting, payroll and admin support systems that are easy to use and can be accessed from your home computer - working remotely has never been easier.

One of the plus sides of working at home is you can claim against your taxes for the areas you use in your home, as long as it is used principally for business, such as an office, work or storage area. You can claim a portion of the household expenses, such as the rates, insurance, power, cleaning, mortgage interest and depreciation (if you own the house).

Another advantage of working at home is, with no meetings, constantly ringing phones and other office distractions, your productivity can go up. You are more likely to complete work you are given to do and less likely to miss deadlines, all the while having the advantages of working flexible hours to suit you in your own home.

Working from home also cuts down fuel costs, less commuting time means you get to miss out on the road rage that can occur along with the traffic congestion everyday at 5pm.

Like anything, working from home has its advantages and disadvantages, but with a healthy dose of discipline, it can prove to be a prosperous alternative.

Hot Spot | Addington The mill before Sept 4th Earthquake

Awesome “Definitely spend a few days in the city,” wrote the Lonely Planet of Christchurch. And nope, they weren’t talking about those lazy, hazy days of yesteryear where we still had things like smooth roads and brick buildings this was at the end of last year.

Travel writer Brett Atkinson was so impressed with our container-filled Garden City when he updated Lonely Planet’s guide recently, that he told readers “there’s still plenty to do, and you’ll be supporting the new businesses inspiring Christchurch’s renaissance.”

What he singled out was SoMo – the area south of Moorhouse Ave where many of our most loved inner city bars and restaurants have relocated.

Bridget Gourlay went to Addington to see what’s on offer and to find out why locals think it holds such an appeal.

Dickens Memorial

The Addington Store, inside the Addington Coffee Co-op

Addington

By Bridget Gourlay

In the 19th century, Addington was an IrishCatholic working class suburb. The railway line was ringed by factories. Cottages framed the suburban streets. Today, much of that heritage has been retained and the Irish feel is still present - there are Catholic schools, churches and even a monastery.

music. It looks like the mill will add to that experience.”

Possibly the best spot in the suburb is the Addington Coffee Co-op, a brick former tool shed that five years ago was turned into a funky café. Owner Anthony Watt says the industrial building was abandoned when he and other locals turned it into a café in 2008.

But while the Irish may have been the first immigrants, many more came after. There’s His business has recently expanded. It now Thai, Chinese and Indian restaurants of course, has a small shop inside, selling locally crafted but also an Afghan one, a Moroccan deli and a or fair trade goods. While the café had always small shop selling goods from the Philippines. considered adding a shop, the earthquake Addington suffered its share of casualties after gave them the platform to do so as it got rid February; many buildings were pulled down. of many speciality retailers in the city centre.

But many beautiful ones still remain such as the 19th century jail, constructed in 1874 by one of Christchurch’s most loved architects, Walking Benjamin Mountfort. He’s the genius behind A walk around the winding streets of gems like the Arts Centre and the Provincial Addington is as fun as it is eclectic. There’s Council Chambers. a drinking fountain dedicated to Charles Addington prison closed in 1999 and lay Dickens, and his work to protect the poor. empty until early 2006 when the building was There’s also a memorial to, oddly enough, bought by a local couple, Grant Parrett and sewers and to how they greatly lifted the Kirsty Henderson, who renovated the building standard of living as they got rid of disease. and reopened it as a funky backpackers’ In a grassy square there’s a beautiful century hostel. Parrett says it was the prison that held Addington back. When it was shut down old church framed by trees; and in the nearby cemetery lies the remains of many in 1999 and the land zoning changed, more of the suburb’s first settlers. Among the students and families moved to the area, cracked graves there’s one name of especial which kicked off its renaissance. importance; Katherine Lovell-Smith, known to “Prior to the earthquake there was already a us as Kate Sheppard. move, changing for the better and becoming But more than what Addington is or was, it’s vibe-y,” Parrett says. “Since the earthquake what it’s become. Take two of Christchurch’s the speed has been tenfold. We were adding greatest hotspots; the Dux de Lux and the one cool groovy business a year and now Court Theatre. The funky vegetarian bar and there’s five to ten interesting things on the professional theatre were located within the go.” the Arts Centre complex, but have both Like the Mill Development, where the relocated to Addington. abandoned but architecturally significant Dux de Lux, in true post earthquake spirit, is Woods Mill will be fixed and turned into a entertainment complex similar to what Poplar operating from a revived industrial building called Dux Live and the Court has moved into Lane and Sol Square were like. Parrett says a converted warehouse around the corner. when it opens next year, his nature-fatigued It sounds makeshift and dreary but, much guests will love it. like the Pop Up Mall in Cashel Street, it’s not; “We’ve seen the artist’s impressions and splashes of paint, lively colours and a vibe of we’re very excited. That’s what our visitors enthusiasm makes them come alive. want, New Zealand is largely a national park, With the huge diaspora of CBD workers and so sometimes you want a break from the businesses, Addington has certainly changed. trees so therefore what our travellers want is Coffee co-op owner Anthony Watt fears the good coffee a good place to have a beer, live eccentric character of Addington may change too as the place becomes more mainstream.

Dickens Memorial & Jail

“Post-earthquake, the concern is some of the guys who can’t afford a lot of rent will get moved out for franchises and chain stores to move in. And that would be a shame, so we want to protect the character of Addington. It is a wee village. It is our neighbourhood not a business district – we live here. That’s the big thing, is that going to change too much?”

Addington hot spots Dux Live – The Dux de Lux’s new home.

Live music, vegetarian food, good beer – it’s the Dux we all know and love.

Simo’s Moroccan Deli and Takeaway – A taste of the Mediterranean in Lincoln Road. Truly delicious, and singled out in Lonely Planet.

The Court Theatre – Back with a vengeance in a converted warehouse, the Court has a fabulous line-up for 2012.

Addington Coffee Co-op – Arguably the home of the best coffee in Christchurch.

New York Deli – Another CBD icon that’s settled in on Lincoln Road.

The Painted Room – The most eclectic of shops, once found on now-destroyed Colombo Street, is back with a great collection.

Cargo Bar – Lime Bar, like any selfrespecting post-2011 drinking spot, operates from a container. It’s near the Hagley Park end of Lincoln Road.

Addington Books – Any secondhand bookshop aficionado knows the more dire the shop looks, the better the selection. Addington Books is testament to that fact. It may promote its amazing sci-fi section but its overall collection is just as good.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 25

Creating a happy

Workplace

By Darlene Mathieson

The idea of having a professional massage in the comfort of your own office does sound rather appealing, but what are the actual benefits, and frankly, is it worth it?

We spoke to Judith Parkes, office manager at Harmans Lawyers in Christchurch, to find out.

What made you decide to introduce on-site massage to your workplace?

The convenience of having massages at work is great, as people are generally too busy to go outside of work hours to get a massage. It is also an easy way to deal with releasing stiff and strained shoulder muscles from working in front of computers all day.

Why did you choose EnergizeNZ? Brent Selwyn, a partner of the firm, met Maria Gold from EnergizeNZ at a networking event. After learning the potential benefits for the company, the office decided to trial the service. Two and a half years later, we’re still happily having massages.

What is the atmosphere like in the office on massage day?

There is anticipation and enthusiasm as the staff look forward to their massages.

We enjoy catching up with Jane - our regular massage therapist.

Afterwards everyone shows how relaxed their muscles feel, and the general enjoyment of the massage experience.

You hear comments like ”Oh that was so great... I feel so much better”. It is a happy workplace.

What benefits are experienced after the massage?

The immediate benefit is a release of stiff muscles and feeling of stress.. We are more relaxed, and more in the flow of work for the rest of the day. You need to drink lots of water following the massage.

What benefits are experienced in the week or two after a massage?

The neck and shoulder muscles are more relaxed, with better posture and movement of the neck and shoulders.

We have also noticed the sustained ability to concentrate better.

Would you recommend on-site massage to other organisations?

“We have a therapist from EnergizeNZ attend our Papanui offices every four to six weeks. Myself and my staff always feel relaxed afterwards. Happy staff are productive staff. I highly recommend EnergizeNZ to any business owner,” says Brent Selwyn, Partner at Harmans Lawyers in Christchurch.

We then got into a bit more detail with Maria Gold, one of the directors of EnergizeNZ. What other long-term benefits have your therapists noticed?

Jane, one of our therapists who has been working with me for three years, has also told me that over those years, working with the same clients, she has noticed definite changes in peoples muscles and posture, even when only having a monthly massage. Massage has also been proven to: • help reduce anxiety levels • increase workplace productivity • reduce stress, & promote mental health • improve mental clarity & concentration What kind of massage programmes are companies using?

Companies use our services in many ways, including one-off rewards or treats through to regular wellness programmes.

We offer personalised service, and tailor programmes to meet the specific needs of individual companies.

What payment options are there for companies wanting your service?

Most companies always think that they have to pay for the entire massage. This isn’t always practical, so we have introduced three easy options: • company paid • staff paid • company and staff split payments We also have online booking and credit card facilities to make life easier.

What other services do you offer?

We work with businesses on Health and Wellness Days to promote healthy and happy workplaces, and we also provide event massage, where a quick and easy chair massage can leave a lasting impression on your potential clients.

And there we have it. A simple and effective way to have healthy, happy staff.

To find out more about their services or to book online, visit www.energizenz.com or call Maria or Toni on 0800 454 838

News | Destinations

Ambling around

Amsterdam

By Bridget Gourlay

I know what you’re thinking. Amsterdam is almost a homonym for vice; when tourists visit they think sex, drugs and…well, more sex and drugs. But it’s totally unfair to put Holland’s beautiful capital into that box.

The lively city is easily one of the prettiest in Europe with far more on offer than its reputation suggests.

As a Kiwi wandering the streets, there are a number of things that are startling. Firstly, the well-known licentiousness of Amsterdam is done, by and large, by tourists. They’re the ones tripping on acid (now illegal) or smoking pot (cracked down on) and comprise the majority who indulge in the, uh, services of the girls in the red light district.

Just as puzzlingly funny is the church smackbang in the middle of the red-light district, where historically sailors would arrive and buy, in advance, absolutions for the sins they would commit that night.

Why in advance? Well, there wasn’t always time to confess about a lustful night the next morning with a hangover before the ship left port, so the sailors would get the soulcleansing stuff out of the way first. I suppose it’s the thought that counts.

Another quirky part of Amsterdam’s architectural charm are the rows of houses built on a slight tilt with a pole sticking out at the top. It makes sense. If you’re moving into your nice new canal house, getting heavy furniture into the home and up several flights of narrow stairs would be nearly impossible, so people use the pole to levy up their furniture.

One of Amsterdam’s most famous residents was Anne Frank, the young Jewish girl who hid with her family above her father’s work during the Nazi occupation of Holland. I read her diary several times as a teenager and visiting the cramped annex where the Franks and Van Dams lived is chilling.

The museum dedicated to her shows several photos taken of the family, characters that are so alive and brassy in your head it’s funny to see pictures of the real life people - but worse to know that everyone except for Otto was killed. Anne’s photos are the most poignant.

Her bright brown eyes are cheeky and brilliantly alive; and she is so beautiful in the way that all young teenagers are, just on the cusp of adulthood.

For the people of Amsterdam, these are just the activities that go on around them - although they’re fighting to keep them legal and available with a more conservative government in power.

We had to check out the red light district and I must say, don’t go there during the day.

Maybe it’s because the women look more alluring at night, or maybe it’s what the tour guide assured us - the more attractive, thus more expensive, girls work nights. But day-time the red light girls were a shock in a different way than what I expected; overweight and grumpy, their preening in the glass mirrors was half-hearted to say the least. As soon as they saw we were tourists and not customers, they quickly went back to their texting or reading.

Museums The other famous museum is dedicated to Dutch painter Vincent Van Gough, which holds the biggest collection of his paintings in the world. If museums are your thing, then Amsterdam is the right place. I think marketing itself as the bizarre museum city is the way it can break out of its ‘sex and drugs’ reputation.

There’s the tulip museum, the torture museum, the sex museum (not to be confused with the nearby erotica museum) and finally the hash, marijuana, and hemp museum. Glasses-wearers may enjoy the spectacles museum, smokers the pipe museum and chess fanatics can visit the – you guessed it - chess museum. The morbid will enjoy the death museum or perhaps the Vrolik collection where abnormal biology (we’re talking deformed body parts and foetuses) are on display. Seriously, I couldn’t make this stuff up. It just has to be seen to be believed.

Business advice

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Rijsk Museum

Just as puzzlingly funny is the church smackbang in the middle of the red-light district, where historically sailors would arrive and buy, in advance, absolutions for the sins they would commit that night.

Amsterdam is known for being a city of canals, but really it’s a city of bikes. In New Zealand you only really see school children and lycra-clad nutbars cycling, but in Holland it’s a different story. Uni students, office commuters, the elderly; everyone’s got one.

In one day I saw a man biking while carrying dry cleaning, two young people cycling next to each other and sharing the headphones of an iPod and a guy pulling a suitcase on a bike as he headed to the train station.

”

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), the Netherlands is the second largest European investor into New Zealand, reflecting its strong agricultural traditions. In kind, “the Netherlands’ strategic location within Europe, a population with strong language and entrepreneurial skills, quality infrastructure, and an open and outward looking economy combine to make it an attractive ‘Gateway to Europe ‘for New Zealand companies”.

MFAT says our main exports are sheep meat, apples, aluminium and seeds and our main imports are machinery, plastics, pharmaceuticals and foodstuffs.

Most precarious of all was seeing families biking. There’d often be Mum on the bike The other crazy part is the width of the with a baby strapped in a car seat on the front houses. A few centuries ago, homes facing and a toddler on the back. Or a parent pulling the canal were taxed on the width of the a little trolley behind them on a bike with structure so there was great incentive to make three children jammed inside. No one wears homes very thin. This can still be seen today at a number of homes which are barely wider a helmet. To accommodate all these cyclists are massive bike racks – the size of carparking than their front doors but go up buildings, several storeys high. several stories. www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 27

News | Lifestyles

Santa Monica

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A little slice of Los Angeles life

Santa Monica’s story began when a Franciscan monk, inspired by the region’s natural springs, named the area after Saint Monica. The rest, as they say, is history – and it’s a rich history at that. Santa Monica has 5.6 km of well-maintained golden California beach and enjoys, on average, 340 days of sunshine a year. Both a seaside town and bustling city, Santa Monica has activities for young and old, from beach games and bike paths to art galleries and nightclubs, from shopping and fitness to theatere and concerts.

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Skins gym gear If you want performance when on the move, then Skins is a brand to take notice of. The company produces compression sportswear and has launched a stylish new range of designs to improve performance and aid muscle recovery. The A200 range is aimed at men and women passionate about being active – whether it’s running, cycling, playing team sports, aerobics or hitting the gym. By wrapping the muscles in a second ‘skin’ and applying the correct levels of pressure, Skins A200 accelerate blood flow and increase oxygen delivery to working muscles, improving power, stamina and aiding recovery. In short - the everyday sportsman/woman can enjoy optimum performance and limit muscle pain during and after activity.

There’s the Santa Monica Pier, Muscle Beach and of course Disneyland and Hollywood… the list is almost endless. The Third Street Promenade is world-famous for its alfresco shopping, tasty restaurants and cafés all in the heart of the city. Santa Monica hotels range from luxury to boutique, and beachfront to motels. Stay in the thick of it all and check out the Viceroy Santa Monica hotel or Casa Del Mar hotel. www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com www.hotelcasadelmar.com

Huntaway Reserve - Pinot Gris 2011

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Top drop

Huntaway wines, known for their distinctive characteristics, include both mainstream and specialty varietals from Marlborough, Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay. Since Huntaway Reserve was launched in late 1996, the range has been awarded no less than six gold medals and three trophies, reflecting the outstanding quality of these wines. This wine represents a blend of pinot gris from some of its finest vineyards in Gisborne. In the glass, this wine is straw in colour with green tinges. A lifted bouquet of pear and melon with hints of spice is evident. There is a rich, oily-textured palate, layered with pear and spice flavours and an underlying savoury complexity leads to a lingering off-dry finish.

On the go

RRP: A200 Skins leggings - $169 Available from: stockists on the Skins website www.skins.co.nz

Go-go gadget PS Vita

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RRP: $23.99 Available from: wine outlets nationwide

Immerse yourself in a world of uncompromised play with PlayStation’s Vita (PS Vita), the revolution in portable gaming from Sony Computer Entertainment. The Vita delivers a state-of-the-art portable gaming experience and introduces innovative ways to play and interact. Its unique, intuitive and varied control inputs allow for rich and immersive gaming experiences, while full integration with PlayStation Network allows you to stay constantly connected to a social network of gamers.

There is a choice of connectivity options, including 3G network support which makes its first appearance in a PlayStation device. The Vita features a touchscreen similar to those found on advanced smartphones, you can access Facebook and Twitter, Skype, and the built-in GPS with Google Maps should also prove popular when out and about.

RRP: $549.95 Available from: electronic stores nationwide

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Ultimate accessory Kikki.K leather shoulder bag

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Furnish yourself UFO red tub chair

Cuddle up, stretch out or relax with the whole family on this inviting circular shaped sofa. It’s ideal for a family room, bach or the centre piece to your living room. The UFO is imported

by Danske Møbler and will be ideal for the upcoming winter months to snuggle into. Danske Møbler is an award winning furniture store with a wide selection of leading designers and the UFO is just one of a wide range of interesting furniture concepts and designs.

RRP: $1,899 Available from: www.danske.co.nz 28 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Arrive in style with a shoulder bag that combines the function of a laptop bag with the form and quality of Swedish design.

Handmade from premium Italian leather, woven cotton lining and leather trimming on all internal pockets, it’s the perfect accessory. This spacious little number can hold a 17 inch laptop, has a padded sleeve perfect for your i –Pad and phone, business card slots, pen loops and internal pockets, plus generous external zip pockets for everyday bits and pieces.

Available in any colour you like, so long as its black or brown.

RRP: $620.00 Available from: Kikki.K stores and www.kikki-k.com

The transformation of rail

Greener.

Our new locomotives can haul loads of up to 2,000 tonnes. That is the equivalent of about 80 trucks off our roads.

We thought you would be happy about that.

We’re on the move. We’re forging ahead in a new direction for rail freight in this country.

That means casting off the shadows of the past and emerging with new technology.

New, more powerful locomotives. Wagons that carry bigger payloads. Software that manages and controls the efficient timing of trains. We’re building stronger relationships with our customers to create more efficient transport networks.

We’re investing in rolling-stock and equipment to create a sustainable rail network for future generations. To find out how our new direction can benefit you, text ‘rail’ to 226.

To find out more visit the freight hub at

KIR 9905

www.kiwirailfreight.co.nz

KIR 9905 Cenral & Cnt Press 355 x 250_ƒ.indd 1

8/03/12 5:13 PM

Smarter, greener alternative to septic tanks New Zealand’s local councils are quickly catching on to a vastly superior alternative to old traditional septic tanks and, surprisingly, it’s a concept that has been around, and internationally proven, since the 1960’s

“Standard centrifugal type pumps wouldn’t handle the fluctuations in pressure like these pumps,” explains Karl Sentch. “ These pumps simply lift out and are extremely easy to maintain.”

The shortcomings of septic tank systems have been well documented over the years. These somewhat primitive sewerage treatments are renowned for their odour problems, concrete lining degradation, leaching and overflows which often result in pollution of the local environment and health risks.

The EOne installation also comes complete with an IP65 weather-proof alarm panel which protects the pump from the low voltage, running dry and over pressure situations. The alarms are backed up by Ecoflow’s 24-hour service line (Ecoflow’s turn-key service extends from initial design phase, through to installation, commissioning and full back-up support). Sentch and McGettigan say pressurised sewer systems are well suited to New Zealand’s terrain and they firmly believe that they will become the “new norm” in a world that is becoming increasingly conscious of the need to maintain clean environments.

Most local councils are cracking down on effluent quality and in many regions and towns septic tanks have now been banned. The alternative is the EOne pressurised wastewater collection (PWC) system, based on quiet, reliable grinder pumps. It’s a technology invented around 40 years ago in the US, since proven and refined, and introduced to the New Zealand market four years ago by the sole local distributor Ecoflow Ltd - based on Auckland’s North Shore.

Pressure switches in the pump head for starting and stopping the pump are similar to washing machine controls and eliminate the need for float switches what are known to fail.

An integral check valve protects against system back pressure and an anti-siphon valve facilitates downhill pumping applications. The pump also features hardened stainless steel cutter bars and teeth. These create a shearing action and, coupled with the high torque pump, eliminate blockages.

Ecoflow project managers Karl Sentch and Jon McGettigan have many years combined experience in wastewater engineering, as well as a wealth of local success stories for the EOne sewer systems. They have already installed over 5000 units throughout the country in applications like the substantial lakeside community projects in Rotorua. With two large systems operating in the South Island, and the increasing demand in the Canterbury region, Ecoflow South Island will be operating from Christchurch as of May 2012. Ecoflow will also begin moulding E/One tanks in Christchurch.

So how do these PWC sewer systems work? And what are their unique benefits? Their simplicity surprises most people. Buried unobtrusively just below the ground surface in a New Zealandmade, heavy duty polyethylene chamber, the units are based around a 0.75kW GP 2000i submersible, positive displacement grinder pump, with progressing cavity to deliver an almost constant flow to the council’s central treatment plant.

30 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Running costs are not an issue either - the estimated annual power consumption $15 - $20. The EOne system comes with a standard two-year warranty, but extended warranties and different levels of service contract are available.

As a replacement for ageing septic tanks, the EOne PWC system from Ecoflow appears to be out on its own.

Advantages to home owners include a safer, cleaner environment and increased property values. Developers enjoy the freedom to sewer anywhere in any kind of terrain, as well as the low installation costs. Engineers and contractors love the fact that they can be easily retrofitted, and every aspect of their installation keeps costs to a minimum.

If your still struggling to cope with a tired old septic tank - hopefully and Ecoflow system will be coming to your neck of the woods soon.

Phone: (09) 447 1793 Fax: (09) 447 3901 Email: info@ecoflow.co.nz Web: www.ecoflow.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nzâ&#x20AC;&#x192;â&#x20AC;&#x192; April/May 2012 | 31

Initiatives | Ideal Electrical

Creating a bright future Ideal Electrical Suppliers and Rexel Electrical Supplies joined forces in 2011, opening up some great new opportunities for their customers in the electrical industry.

Leading the way is Ideal Electrical’s quality product range, customer offers, promotions and chances to win big prizes, which have also been stepped up and delivered to customers in a new format mailer, Livewire, which is published every two months.

best connection for tapping into product specials, new product releases, value-add promotions and great prize giveaways.

and staff.

Look out for Livewire next time you are in an Ideal Electrical branch, or ask to be put on the mailing list.

Installation tips, product advice, and prize draws are all included, with chances to win big. Recent prizes included a $14,000 ‘man Ideal Electrical branches are also getting made cave’ and a trip for 10 to Phuket, Thailand. over with redesigned interiors and improved Easy to navigate, with dedicated sections signage, making it easier for customers, whether residential, commercial or industrial. for residential, commercial and industrial products, you can also find pertinent Ideal Electrical chief executive Colin Daly regulatory and other information useful for says the changes have been greeted electricians. enthusiastically by Ideal and Rexel customers “We are proud to be New Zealand’s leading electrical supplies company and our customers deserve product and service excellence. We can now offer the best of Ideal and Rexel, with access to all products, brands and agencies, including the Rexel Lighting range, under one roof.”

Ideal way to keep connected Keeping up to speed with new product releases, specials and in-store promotions is now as easy as checking your mailbox, with Ideal Electrical Suppliers’ new bi-monthly product mailer Livewire.

Mailed directly to your home or office and available in Ideal’s branches, Livewire is your

A company with vision and global reach Ideal Electrical Suppliers is a market leader with annual sales of more than $150 million.

A nationwide branch network supported by industry-specific hubs it services the needs of the electrical trade for residential, commercial and industrial sectors.

The company was founded in 1991 by an experienced team of industry professionals with a vision to set a benchmark for outstanding customer service in the electrical wholesale sector.

POWER SYSTEMS LIMITED THE ANSWER IN POWER PROTECTION

PSL

UPS

Power Systems Limited is proud to be the preferred supplier for UPS and other Power Protection Equipment to Ideal Electrical Suppliers (A Rexel Group Company) Contact: Power Systems Ltd Free Phone: 0800-UPS 359 (877359) www.powersystems.co.nz Unit 9, 135 Cryers Road, East Tamaki, Auckland 2013 32 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Initiatives | Ideal Electrical

“

For large projects, or where site access is difficult or restricted, Ideal offers alternative supply solutions, including containerised stock delivery to the site and maintained agreed stock levels for the duration of the project.

”

Fast forward more than 20 years and customer service remains Ideal’s focus.

hard-to-find items and custom-engineered installation solutions.

and minimise loss through unscheduled downtime.

Effective business relationships and proactive account management give customers complete confidence their needs are being professionally managed by leaders in their field.

Specialist service divisions provide industry support to utilities, power networks and the data and communications sectors and Ideal’s qualified specialists are on hand to assist with project design, product specification and installation, from simple home automation to complete fibre optic network solutions.

Ideal has supply arrangements with more than 1700 suppliers representing some 130,000 line items. Size and purchasing strength results in client savings, improved inventory control and reduced nonrecoverable administration costs through supplier consolidation.

Advanced eCommerce technologies, quality products and innovative supply solutions all serve to strengthen its customers’ competitive edge in local and national markets.

South Island businesses have access to Ideal’s highly skilled teams of estimators, contract analysts and project managers, whose sole As part of the Rexel International Group of function is to interpret project requirements companies - the world’s largest distributor of electrical equipment and engineered solutions and ensure customers get the right products for the job - first time, every time.

- Ideal Electrical Suppliers offers unmatched global purchasing power and supply and Ideal’s service commitment extends to project distribution alliances that bring the world to and site visits to assist with the preparation of your door. supply assessments and project evaluations.

The industry’s expert Ideal Electrical Suppliers carries the most comprehensive and diverse range of electrical equipment and solutions across every industry sector and sub-sector of residential, light commercial, large multi-site industrial and manufacturing plants and facilities.

With access to the vast technical resource and supply channels of its global partners, Ideal Electrical is industry’s first port of call for sourcing non-standard, discontinued or

Turnkey solutions For large projects, or where site access is difficult or restricted, Ideal offers alternative supply solutions, including containerised stock delivery to the site and maintained agreed stock levels for the duration of the project.

Commitment to this charter flows onto clients through measures such as providing outlets for the recycling of mercury-containing lamps and other hazardous waste items.

A qualified and skilled team

Ideal Electrical Suppliers employs people with advanced technical trade skills and product knowledge to ensure customers receive the Thanks to advanced eCommerce technologies, best possible service. customers enjoy electronic and paperless communication which means rapid turnaround, lower costs and smarter trading Superior industry expertise relationships.

No fewer than 30 percent of Ideal staff have formal electrical qualifications and enjoy Focus on sustainability the dedicated support of an industry-backed More than a buzz word, Ideal staff encourage Supplier Technical Support Group drawn from a group of leading electrical manufacturers sustainability through product stewardship and suppliers. and the promotion of effective, energysaving, lamp alternatives.

At branch level, Ideal ‘product champions’ have superior product and application Ideal follows the Rexel Group’s Charter for knowledge across many key lines to ensure Sustainable Development, a document held customers can make informed decisions and in high regard by environmental agencies get the best product or solution for the job. around the world.

This can include maintenance spares at industrial plants and manufacturing facilities, where 24-hour on-site access to electrical equipment is critical to maintain productivity

Right fan for the job because Air Matters

Pleased to be associated with Ideal Electrical Suppliers Rebranding & 20th Anniversay 0800 106 266 or www.fantechplus.com

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 33

Initiatives | Ideal Electrical

Product Fact file:

As a specialist distributor of local and wide area network communication products for voice and data office networks, Page Data offers an extensive range of products from the leading brands in information transport systems.

Ideal Electrical Suppliers services the electrical supply needs of the residential, commercial and industrial sectors. Its product areas include: Cable and Installation

Industrial Products -

A wide variety of cable products

Automation

Extensive installation products

Motor control

Domestic circuit breakers and switchboards

Motors and actuators

Cable accessories

Sensing and measurement

Hardware and batteries Data and Communications (networking products) Active equipment such as hubs and switches

Enclosures and accessories Specialised cables

Page Data’s product range includes:

Distribution switchgear

Structured cabling for Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6A

Industrial plugs and sockets

Fibre optics, blown fibre

Safety and hazardous equipment

Copper system components Fibre optic components Over voltage protection Cabinets and enclosures Data and Communications (cable) LAN Fibre optic Telephone Instrumentation

Lighting Commercial Domestic Industrial Outdoor lighting Flood lighting Roadways Air movement (HVAC) Domestic

Coaxial

Office

Security

Commercial

TV and antenna systems

Heating domestic

Test equipment and tools

Commercial

34 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

These products range from simple passive products to convert and connect, cabinets to house and manage services and workstations, cabling systems to patch and connect; testing equipment to verify and test; through to active products.

Power networks

RF communication

More than half of Ideal Electrical Suppliers’ 46 branches have the capability to transact power network products.

MATV (TV aerial)

Key power network branches are located in Nelson, New Plymouth, Masterton, Mt Wellington, Gisborne, Pukekohe, Lower Hutt and Napier.

Security, cable, alarms, sensors, access Network products: switches, UPS.

From project inception through to construction and commissioning, Page Data has the The Ideal power network primarily supplies HV expertise and the experience to provide complete logistics support for installers, and LV products and services to support the consultants, and IT professionals. Staff assist provisioning, construction and maintenance of power utility infrastructure in New Zealand. customers with quotes and tenders, working together to minimise any logistics challenges.

This includes project management and logistics management on behalf of clients.

Data and communication Page Data @ Ideal are the data and communication experts within the Ideal Electrical Suppliers network.

Ideal Electrical Suppliers Support Office 4 Henderson Place Penrose Auckland — Advertising Feature www.ideal.co.nz

News | What works 2012

Making the most of Facebook It’s 2012 and for the vast majority of businesses, an internet presence is as important as having a phone number. We know about paying for ad words, we’ve all tried to figure out Twitter.

But the giant social network that dominates all is Facebook. Only eight years on from its creation and it has 800 million users, many of whom check their account several times a day. Facebook is the giant among social networking. The good news; having a business page is completely free. That means every business - no matter how much money they have - can create an amazing page.

Bridget Gourlay gives the low-down on what should and should not be on your Facebook page.

DO give people newsworthy updates.

Business Facebook pages were a godsend after a year of earthquakes. Whenever there was a decent aftershock, my gym, favourite cafés and shops would immediately let us know if they were closed or not, and give updates when they reopened.

As a business owner, you can tell your fans anything new about your business.

For example, when there’s a sale or a new product, my favourite shop will let me know.

When a band is playing a gig, my favourite bar will let me know. You can also throw out questions like – what’s your favourite coffee?

What band would you love to see perform live here?

DON’T spam people. The biggest sin is frequently updating the same thing over and over – i.e. “Only a week until our launch party!” “Only six days until our launch party!”

“Who’s excited about our launch party?”

People will lose interest and stop reading them, or ‘unlike’ your page – which means they will stop getting any of your updates at all.

DO let people know your page exists. Put it on your business card, link it to your website or mention it in other pertinent places like the tags on your clothes, your menus or your fliers and posters. To kick it off, try running a promotion. My favourite café gave its first 100 Facebook friends a free coffee.

I’m not interested in hearing what’s going on in Auckland, so having a club-specific page makes sense. Also, a website should be about the basics of your company and what it does – a Facebook page gives running updates.

DO look at what your Facebook friends (customers) are saying. The best thing about social networking is that it’s easy to find out what customers think about you – meaning DON’T think because you have a website you issues are quickly identified. don’t need a Facebook page. Facebook pages If 10 customers complain about a product are great because they can be more specific that broke quickly, you can address that issue ASAP, hopefully combating any negative than websites. For example, Les Mills has a website for all its gyms but because I ‘like’ the word-of-mouth publicity. Or, you can see what has created a buzz – if a photo of a new Christchurch Les Mills Facebook page, it gives product got 100 likes and several comments, me specific information about my you will know there’s interest out there. personal gym.

Looking after your staff in a tight economy

By Bridget Gourlay

With a messy economic situation in the EU, Kiwi businesses are tightening their belts as the prospect of another recession looms. All this means pay rises are not something many companies feel they can afford right now.

You might think for staff it’s all about the money, but studies have continually shown that staff members often rate a fair salary as just one of the ingredients in workplace happiness. In fact, its job satisfaction and a feeling of harmony and happiness in the workplace that employees are after. Here are some tips on how to look after your staff when the money is tight.

Keep the social club going. Quiz nights, fun runs, guess the baby picture contests, regular Friday drinks – they are all ways of helping people relax and connect.

Offer “duvet days” for hard work. If you can’t reward your staff with money, try giving them some R&R time. For example, a staff member landing a new account could be given a day off of their choice. Studies have shown that a day of relaxing recharges the batteries beautifully, making your staff even better employees when they return.

Offer more training. This shows staff you are willing to invest in them and gives them the chance to expand their potential. They feel challenged and supported at work and that’s something money can’t buy.

Praise and recognition. Honestly thanking a staff member for going above and beyond, for meeting all their deadlines, etc can mean the world to them. It doesn’t take you very long to say it, but it would be the highlight of their day.

Lead from the top. If everyone’s on a pay freeze because of the recession, don’t turn up in your new flash car. This will make your employees feel worthless and then morale and productivity will suffer.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 35

Initiatives | Brokenshire Engineering

“

It’s all about providing the best service we can.

Designs to get

carried away with

”

Henry Brokenshire

Brokenshire Engineering Limited is doing its bit for Christchurch through the design and construction of two of the biggest trailers in New Zealand.

The company designed and built the first large trailer for an American demolition company that came to Christchurch to be involved in earthquake demolition work.

New hard-wearing product

“It’s a three-axle tipping trailer and is 11 metres long, while a typical trailer is about seven metres. It can take 38.7 cubic metres of rubble and is being used in the CBD.”

“I saw this steel in Brisbane about five years ago at a truck show” he says.

Brokenshire Engineering is developing its expertise and knowledge of using high-grade Swedish Hardox steel. The new 450-grade steel is considerably harder than steel Owner Henry Brokenshire says the American typically used for transport engineering in company owned similar sized trailers in the United States, and wanted one in Christchurch. New Zealand, and is new to the country.

“It had to be as big as possible,” Henry Brokenshire says the Hardox steel was Brokenshire says. imported by a Wellington company.

The first 11-metre trailer went on the road just after Christmas, while a second identical trailer for the same customer is in the final stages of completion now.

The trailers are made of a new Swedish steel called Hardox, which is a 450-grade steel.

“The other interesting thing about the trailers is that most trailers of this size tip on the back axle, so the other axles go up with it,” says Brokenshire.

Hunt Engineering Sand Blasting & Dip Stripping Truck Chassis • Rust Repairs Machinery • Car & Motocycle parts Hoist for Compliance Blasting Stripping alloy & Steel parts Ooh! That Tickles!

Proud to support Brokenshire Engineering.

85A Branston St, Hornby Ph. 344 1115 Fax. 344 1159 hunteng@baremetal.co.nz

36 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Proud to support Parks Garage

Law is not just a process, but a framework tailored by us to best suit the individual needs of every client.

• BUSINESS SOLUTIONS • PROPERTY TRUST • LITIGATION & RELATIONSHIPS Website | www.wwl.co.nz P.O Box 13 339, Christchurch 8141 Ph +64 (3) 379 1740 | Fax +64 (3) 379 1789

“In Melbourne there are companies that can cut nine metres in length, but nobody in New Zealand could do it. Now there’s someone in Hamilton that can cut, roll and form it.”

Brokenshire says the product is extremely hard wearing. “It can be used for gears or buckets. Being something new it took us a while to build the first trailer, but the second one went pretty well and I’m sure a third would go even better,” he says.

“We used to make the floor of a tip deck to 6mm. But with Hardox we can make them out of 4mm steel, which makes a big difference “But with these trailers, the back axles stay on with weight.” the ground and we were able to get the pivot The team at Brokenshire Engineering is keen as low as possible for better stability.” to work with any customer interested in owning a large trailer for big jobs.

Initiatives | Brokenshire Engineering

“

I tell the boys that they need to treat each truck as if it’s their own truck – they need to take care of them.

”

Henry Brokenshire

Design and build Brokenshire Engineering can design and build virtually anything that goes on a truck or trailer. The Christchurch company was formed

by Henry Brokenshire in 1989 and is today a specialist transport engineering business.

Originally located in the old freezing works building on Waterloo Road, Brokenshire Engineering today operates from a large workshop and yard in Branston Street, Hornby.

The company has grown a lot since its early days, but it is still focused on providing a core engineering service to the transport industry, including maintenance and repairs, certified welding and certification.

repair work, if you ring up at 9am we can have your job in here by 10am.”

The company also undertakes a smaller amount of general engineering work.

Fact file:

Brokenshire Engineering is focused on providing the best possible service to the highest standard possible. “I tell the boys that they need to treat each truck as if it’s their own truck – they need to take care of them,” Brokenshire says.

Brokenshire Engineering was established

by Henry Brokenshire in 1989.

The company is located at 116 Branston Street and employs four staff.

While last year was a difficult time for the entire transport industry, Brokenshire says this year is looking a lot more positive.

“We build flat decks, curtainside bodies, trailers, tables, guards – anything that goes on the back of a truck,” Brokenshire says.

However, he has no plans to grow his business beyond its current level of four staff, believing you can lose control of your quality if it gets too big.

“About 70 percent of our work is repairs, with the other 30 percent being new work. With

“It’s all about providing the best service we can.”

It is a specialist transport engineering company, designing and building curtainsiders, flat decks, trailers and truck components.

A large percentage of the company’s work involves maintenance and repairs.

Brokenshire Engineering is open from Monday to Friday from 7am to 6pm, and on Saturdays from 7am to 12pm.

The company has recently built two of the largest trailers ever built in New Zealand.

While most customers are based in Christchurch, Brokenshire Engineering regularly services stock trucks from the North Island.

Brokenshire Engineering Limited 116 Branston Street Hornby Christchurch 8004 T (03) 349 2345 F (03) 349 6132 brokeng@xtra.co.nz — Advertising Feature

is proud to be associated with Brokenshire Engineering

For all your steel plate processing requirements Supplier to Brokenshire Engineering

for more information please refer to our website: www.unitedsteel.co.nz or call us on 0800 800 649

“When the quality of your cutting counts”

Uniting both

STEEL + WIRE

• Driveways • Tennis Courts • Car Parks • Subdivisions

Phone: 03-307 6633 Fax: 03-307 6632 www.precisioncutting.co.nz

Pleased to be associated with Brokenshire Engineering

Call 0800 JCL NOW (0800 525 669) Office: 03 981 0496 | Mobile: 021 999 457 | Fax: 03 981 3327 | Email: james@jclasphalt.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 37

Initiatives | Alpha Equipment

The right tools for any task

“

We offer a great service; we’re obliging and we get back to our customers. If you ring us we’ll find out what you need.

We’ll ask the right questions and find the right equipment to suit your needs.

”

- Owner James Murray

Alpha Equipment Limited has the machine to help you do any job, right across the South Island.

The Christchurch company hires out almost every type of earth-moving machine imaginable - and can source anything else.

The company is recently renamed Alpha Equipment owned by James Murray and was separated from its parent company, MTC Tractor Co, which deals in the sale of new and used tractors and combine harvesters.

Wide range of hire machinery Alpha Equipment hires out a wide range of earth-moving machinery. Murray says 12-tonne and 20-tonne excavators make up a significant part of Alpha’s fleet, as well as rollers, compaction equipment, dozers and graders.

“The gear is maintained to the highest of standard and it’s all late-model popular brands of equipment,” says Murray.

“Our service is second to none. We have a great field service crew, should there be any issues, and we’ll be there to fix the machine.”

“We have 30-plus vehicles in our fleet and we’re growing that number steadily,” Murray says.

“Our machinery goes around the South Island.”

While some of Alpha’s machinery has already been involved in repairs and rebuilds in Christchurch, Murray expects that work to steadily continue over the next few years.

“Some of our vehicles have been involved in the demolition work, but we’re mainly wanting to be involved in the repair of the city,” he says.

Alpha Equipment runs a fulltime transport operation for moving machinery and prides itself on its prompt deliveries and collections.

The company’s yard in Halswell Junction Rd is also extremely accessible for customers wishing to collect or drop off machinery themselves.

We are proud to be associated with the team at Alpha Equipment Ltd as their accounting and business advisors…

We are specialists in… … Business Consulting … Business Advisory Services … Taxation Planning … Risk Management … Succession Planning

For enquiries please contact: Graeme, Paul, Andrew, Richard or Belinda chch@markhams.co.nz Ph: 379 6710 Fax: 379 6754 PO Box 13 104 www.markhams.co.nz Christchurch 8141

Moving forward with AlphaHire.

Excavators Dozers Dumpers Rollers Telehandlers

Corner Edmonton & Halswell Junction Rds Hornby | PO Box 16776 | Christchurch | Freephone: 0800 50 10 10

38 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Alpha Equipment’s range of hire equipment includes: • Excavators • Loaders • Dozers • Dumpers • Rollers • Telehandlers • Graders

Initiatives | Alpha Equipment Focus on great service

A family business

Alpha Equipment Limited puts “You First” every time. “We’re building our business on thinking of the customers’ requirements,” Murray says. Alpha Equipment will tailor each hire deal to meet every customer’s unique requirements.

The company employs a close team of enthusiastic staff, including James’ three children. Sons Dougal and Brock look after the hire operations and sales and service divisions respectively, while daughter Georgia works in administration and reception.

“We’re in a competitive industry, but it’s an industry where there’s not a lot of service,” he says.

“We’re a family company; we value our customers; and we go the extra mile to provide for their needs. We don’t just have a branch of employees who’re there to collect their pay cheques. We think about the growth of the company and our customers.”

“We offer a great service; we’re obliging and we get back to our customers. If you ring us we’ll find out what you need. We’ll ask the right questions and find the right equipment to suit your needs.”

The team at Alpha Equipment will go out of its way to source any machine that’s required, even if it’s not in the company’s fleet.

“We’re specialists. We inquire about what our customers are doing and what they need and we will find a machine that fits those needs. It’s not just about getting them into a machine that we have sitting in our yard.”

Alpha Equipment provides 24/7 service support for every machine it hires out, whether it’s to supplement a large fleet or a specialised machine for a one-off job.

“

New Alpha company History of Alpha Equipment:

Alpha Equipment Limited was recently rebranded in order to continue to grow as a specialist machinery hire company. “We used to be MTC Rental,” Murray says.

Murray Implement Company was formed in 1975 by James Murray’s father, Peter Murray.

“We’re still located next door to MTC Tractor Co “We rebranded the hire side of the business on Halswell Junction Rd, but we’re a separate with the aim of being seen as a specialist in company now. We did that because we have hire machinery,” Murray says. two different customer bases.”

In addition to machinery hire Alpha Equipment also sells construction equipment, and the new Hino trucks imported from the Northern Hemisphere.

“We’ve diversified our side of the business into construction equipment in order to capitalise on the demand for machinery in the repair and rebuild of earthquake damage.”

We’re a family company; we value our customers; and we go the extra mile to provide for their needs.

- Owner James Murray

”

Peter Murray worked as dairy hand in Hawera and later gained a diesel mechanic apprenticeship.

The company was originally based in Innes Road, Christchurch, before moving to Ohoka, where it was located for 11 years.

Murray Implement Co originally sold Duncan drills, Fiat tractors and Taarup mowers, as well as a range of used equipment.

Peter’s three sons, Anthony, James and Grant began working for the business and later took over the operations of the three main divisions.

In 1987 the company opened a premises in Edmonton Road, Hornby, and expanded into Kuhn, Fiat and Giltrap machinery.

Murray Implement Co gained the Valtra and Same/Deutz Fahr agencies.

It separated into two specialised companies in 2004, MTC Tractor Co supplying tractors, and Murray Implement Co supplying implements.

MTC Tractors was named the top Valtra dealership in 2004.

In 2011 the hire division was separated from MTC Tractors and renamed Alpha Equipment Limited.

Alpha Equipment Limited Corner Edmonton and Halswell Junction Roads Hornby Christchurch Freephone 0800 50 10 10 T (03) 349 4451 F (03) 982 2988 www.alphequipment.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Car Restoration • Fleet Work Insurance • Motorhome Repairs Private and Commercial Repairs Camper Vans • Truck Fleet Work Truck Repairs • WOF Repairs

(03) 349 5495 619 Halswell Junction Road, Hornby, Christchurch

WHERE QUALITY COMES FIRST Bob Howden Engineering offers a "one stop shop" approach with design fabrication, machining and hydraulic work of an extremely wide variety.

Pleased to be associated with Alpha Equipment Ltd 24 Yukon Place, Hornby, Chch

Telephone: 03 349 4325

Manufacturing • Repair • Alterations

FOR ALL OF YOUR HYDRAULIC SERVICES • Sales & Design team • In-house machinging and welding facility • Mobile hose repair service • Service & repair facility • Large, well equipped drive in service facility PROUD TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH

ALPHA EQUIPMENT LTD 10 Braeburn Drive, Christchurch Ph: 03 344-0307 | Fax: 03 344-0308 www.martinhydraulics.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 39

Focus | Westende Jewellers

Upheavals no barrier to business Since 1965 Westende Jewellers has been offering customers the finest in traditional, vintage and designer jewellery while providing the best in service, quality and craftsmanship. However, like many other Christchurch businesses, the last 18 months have taken its toll on the family owned store.

The September 4 earthquake damaged the long established business on the corner of Manchester and Worcester Streets. Westende Jewellers became one of the iconic images of the quake. The severely damaged building was used by international media as the main background for news reports.

Getting back to business

Despite the damage and with the help of USAR, the Kelso family, staff and their friends managed to access the building to recover property before demolition.

Christmas trading went well and recovery was looking promising for 2011. Then the February 22 earthquake hit, closing down the CBD.

Manager Andrew Kelso said they had just over half an hour to do this. Within this time they managed to save irreplaceable vintage antique jewellery, specialised equipment and important records.

“We walked in with lights strapped to our heads; there was no power, which made it difficult to retrieve the paperwork out from the back room. We managed to get the majority of our jewellery out, especially our vintage antique items, which are irreplaceable,” he says.

Determined to get back to business as quickly as possible, Westende Jewellers set up a temporary site within Bells Antiques’ shop on Gloucester Street for several weeks, and then in November moved into vacant premises a few doors down near New Regent Street.

With two stores lost to the quakes, owner Roger Kelso and his son Andrew made the tough decision to relocate outside of the CBD after temporarily running the store from Andrew’s garage at home. Despite these obstacles the father and son duo were determined to find a new location.

Today Westende Jewellers now operates in Sydenham at 421 Colombo Street.

Although Sydenham was hard hit in the September and February quakes, Andrew feels that moving the business there has been a good choice. “The area is showing

Photos by Paul Terry

strong signs of revival with many other CBD businesses taking leases here too.”

Experience counts The family business offers more than 60 years of combined experience and expertise in the industry. Roger Kelso, brought the business in 1965 after having a long friendship with the previous owners.

Andrew recalls being in the store as a young boy and in later years he says he used to do the engraving between classes at university.

“After graduating I travelled overseas for several years before returning and helping out over Christmas. It led to a fulltime job and now I manage the store.”

Westende Jewellers offers a comprehensive range of jewellery and associated services such as repairs and valuations- its consultations and quotes are offered free of charge.

LAYBURN HODGINS BARRISTERS

&

SOLICITORS

Ross Skinner

Ford Baker Realty

DESIGN LIMITED Specialist manufacturers of quality shopfitting, displays, total shopfiters Commercial and Domestic interiors, fitments. Our skilled craftsmen would be pleased to create your requirements

Creating Better Interiors DEORR FURNITURE LTD 04 389 9036 CHRISTCHURCH Email deorrfurniture@xtra.co.nz

40 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

ARCHITECTURAL + INTERIOR D E S I G N C O N S U LTA N T

Proud to be associated with Westende Jewellers 1st Floor 104 Salisbury St PO Box 36-047 Merivale Christchurch 8146 NZ Ph: 03 366 4767 | Fax: 03 365 6533 Mobile: 027 229 3500 Email: ross.skinner@xtra.co.nz

We have recently relocated to the Sydenham area and are committed to providing expert legal advice to our local community.

LAYBURN HODGINS ARE PROUD TO HAVE BEEN PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE TO WESTENDE JEWELLERS FOR OVER 30 YEARS Directors: •Trevor Quirk •John Abbott •Duncan Macintyre 03 366 2332 | layburn@layburn.co.nz | www.layburn.co.nz

Level 1, 47 Montreal Street, Sydenham, Christchurch

Commercial Industrial Business Division

We wish Westende Jewellery every success for the future and we were delighted to be able to assist with their relocation.

Ph: 03 379 7830 | www.fordbaker.co.nz Call Diane Peterson on 0274 337 509 or email at diane@fordbaker.co.nz

Focus | Westende Jewellers

“

We offer a personal touch with our small and friendly team - we go that extra mile to ensure you are happy with your purchase. Our jewellery is made to New Zealand standards so that our customers can wear it all the time and not just as a fashion piece.

- Andrew Kelso

Its stock includes vintage, antique jewellery, diamond rings, modern jewellery, and watches along with two new designer ranges – Karen Walker and Kagi. From engagement rings to wedding bands, to birthdays, anniversaries and graduations, Westende Jewellers has a wide range of beautiful jewellery for all occasions.

However, Andrew explains that Westende Jewellers is not restricted to what’s in store.

“If someone has something in mind that we don’t have then we will do everything we can to get it for them, from our local and international suppliers, or our jeweller can make it. Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean you can’t have it.

“We offer a personal touch with our small and friendly team - we go that extra mile to ensure you are happy with your purchase. Our jewellery is made to New Zealand standards so that our customers can wear it all the time and not just as a fashion piece.”

Saying ‘I do’ Westende Jewellers has a large selection of engagement rings on offer. From modern to antique, Andrew and his team can help you find or create the perfect ring.

“Over the years engagement rings have changed in regards to what design people want. The shape and style has certainly changed from the more traditional classic round brilliant cut diamond on a gold band,

The Westende Jewellers Team

”

to more modern diamond cuts like the square princess cut on platinum or palladium.

Westende Jewellers’ services Jewellery repairs – From simple soldering jobs to complete rebuilds, it can provide all the repairs and maintenance required to keep your precious jewellery secure and looking great Remakes/Remodelling – Whether it’s a piece you no longer wear or is too worn to be economically repaired; Westende Jewellers can modernise your old jewellery into a contemporary style to suit your current lifestyle, tastes and budget

“We have also found that the majority of our customers seem to what something different or more unique and that’s where our vintage antique rings are also popular.”

Watch repairs – From battery replacement to a complete stripping down and service of your watch, it can take care of all your watch repair requirements

When asking Andrew’s advice on purchasing an engagement ring he says questions such as style and taste are important. “Firstly what colour jewellery do you wear, and what are your tastes. If it’s down to the guy buying the ring we know how stressful this can be for them.

Valuations – It offers insurance replacement valuations along with other types of valuations. It specialises in vintage antique jewellery and all valuations are completed by onsite valuers

“If he is concerned for any reason that he has picked the wrong ring then we offer a 30 day exchange/refund policy. This applies to all purchases not just engagement rings.”

“We don’t want to restrict our customers and by offering this policy we can give them the chance to exchange the ring to something their partner wants and likes. This takes the pressure off their purchase, but to be fair, we don’t see many engagement rings return – so the guys doing something right!”

As the city rebuilds Westende Jewellers may relocate back to the city centre, but for now Andrew says that’s not even a consideration.

“The last year and a bit has shown us that nothing’s a given and not to take anything for granted. We were a CBD business but events have moved us to the suburbs. We have made our home here in Sydenham and would like to thank our loyal customers, family, and friends for their on-going support.”

After loss valuations – From preparing an estimate after loss assessment for you to present to your insurance company, right through to replacing your jewellery, it can assist you through the entire process Engraving – It can engrave your cups, trophies and medals as well as supplying an extensive range of trophies and cups for most sports Selling on behalf – Depending on the client’s requirements Westende Jewellers can offer to sell an item on your behalf Gold buyers – If you have unwanted, broken or worn out jewellery then Westende Jewellers buy gold.

Westende Jewellers 421 Colombo Street Sydenham Christchurch 8023 T (03) 366 5475 E westendejewellers@xtra.co.nz www.westendejewellers.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Suttons

Security Doors COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC Roller Grille Specialists

accounting limited mobile qualified accountants Accountants specialising in Quickbooks & MYOB • Setting up accounting software to suit your business • Hands-on training • GST, PAYE and end of year financial statements • Companies, Partnerships • Sole traders, Rental properties • Free initial consultation up to one hour

High quality roller grilles & shutters Choice of curtain systems Custom built to your requirements Shopfront bar & bollards Xpanda & multiguard retractable security grilles

Ph: Ch 381 3116 | Fax: 381 3117 0-274-364 241 www.suttonsco.co.nz

Show Room, 17 A Te Rama Place, Wainoni 100% Canterbury Owned & Operated

Proud to be associated with Westende Jewellers Phone: 03 384 7923 | Email: office@smaccounting.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 41

Focus | Valley of Peace Quick questions

Providing the Nestled into the port hills, on a 14-acre farm 10 minutes from Christchurch city is a unique and rustic wedding venue with a difference – the Valley of Peace. Tussock covered hillside, deer and sheep, farms on both sides and a view that is simply breath taking surround this venue.

perfect setting

Q. Can we have our ceremony at Valley of Peace?

A . Yes, you are welcome to have your wedding ceremony here along with pictures.

Q. What time does the Valley of Peace venue close?

A . Events end by 11pm - at this point all services are ended and doors shut at 11:45pm.

Q. What does the venue include?

A . When you hire the Valley of Peace you get the exclusive use of the venue and facilities, the day prior for set up, on the day of your event and the day after, for tidy up.

Tables, chairs, lights on dance floor, mood lighting, sound system, bar area, lounge, outside floodlighting; tree lighting, heating, toilets and car parking is all included.

“The event was run by White Tie Catering - we got great feedback from the catering company and the wedding guests. The option to host weddings literally fell into our lap!”

The impressive red barn is the centerpiece of the venue that is made up of four areas which can be easily personalised. These areas The Valley of Peace is a family business include a bar, dance floor, lounge area and established by Greg and Rachael Graham in large reception area. Greg says the rooms link 1997. The investment started when the couple to a large corridor creating an open feel. “The decided to create an award winning Alpaca bar area also links to a large grass area which stud farm that went on to become one of is great for entertaining.”

New Zealand’s most successful.

The Valley of Peace offers a truly idyllic and Ten years ago the farm added a large barn so wonderfully wedding venue with that special that Greg and Rachael could use it as a stud difference. “Our goal is to provide a truly style show-piece. However, as visitors came memorable venue for you. The area has a by questions were always asked about using gentle rural character that’s fun and lasts in the barn as a wedding venue. Greg says he your memory. The valley also has its own decided to allow a wedding to take place for a micro climate, with no direct winds and no one off event. horrible easterlies, it’s pretty warm,” Greg says.

The venue is able to offer the unique option of an indoor, outdoor or marquee style setting, or if you wish a combination of all three.

Rachel says the venue has a very private and discreet setting. “The barn also provides you with a clean cut and fresh take, allowing you to personalise the place easily. It’s the ultimate rustic experience and best of all you don’t need to travel all day to get here.”

Q. How many people can Valley of Peace seat?

A . It can seat up to 100 people in the main area.

Q. Does the venue have a sound system?

Greg and Rachael highly recommend a visit if you are just starting out as there is nothing like seeing this venue in ‘the flesh’ to truly appreciate how special and unique it is. “We let the venue do the talking. Everyone has a nice venue - you just have to find the one that suits you,” Rachael says.

“We offer a relaxed and fun take of the typical wedding - there’s no booking in for an eight hour slot. It truly is a stress free, low pressure environment so you can concentrate solely on your occasion and not the conditions of the venue itself.

“When you come to Valley of Peace you get just that – peace,” Greg says.

DELIVERING STUNNING EVENTS AT THE VALLEY OF PEACE ALPACA STUD www.whitetiecatering.co.nz

Country Feasts Catering there just for you Phone number 3443044 | e:info@countryfeasts.co.nz | web: www.countryfeasts.co.nz

A . Yes, it has a fully professional sound system that will provide music to all the rooms. This system runs a total 12 speakers throughout the venue. It can be used with CDs, i-pods, MP3s and 4s, DJs and duke boxes.

Q. Do you allow bands?

A . The venue does not allow live bands however, DJ’s are welcome when plugged into the in-house sound system. Making sure that your live music stays within Christchurch City Council limits is of paramount importance.

Q. Do you have caterers or alcohol?

A . The Valley of Peace is a BYO venue for both food and alcohol (wine and beer).

Please ask Greg and Rachael for a list of preferred caterers. These include: White Tie Catering, Moveable Feasts, Country Feasts and Kiwi Cuisine.

Valley of peace 80 Hoon Hay Valley Rd, Cashmere, Christchurch T (03) 3225 130 F (03) 322 4031 E g.s.graham@xtra.co.nz www.alpacavalley.co.nz — Advertising Feature

kiwicuisine com From 5 star plated dinners to gourmet spit-roasts, Kiwi Cuisine is able to cater for all events Kiwi Cuisine is proud to be a preferred Caterer of Valley of Peace Ph. (03) 386 3082 | Fax. (03) 386 2563 | Mobile. 0274 316 373 www.kiwicuisine.co.nz | 269 Hills Road, Christchurch 42 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

MOVEABLE FEASTS & STU’S SMOKIN’ BARBEQUE Location Caterers and Wedding Specialists

www.moveablefeasts.co.nz | 03 389 8617 | www.stus-smokinbbq.co.nz

Goods & Services | Hepburn Joinery 50 year Jubilee

Joinery solutions for any size or scale Hepburn Joinery 1972 Ltd is a long-standing, reliable and friendly company with a history of supplying high quality joinery fittings to the local and international market. It is a true Kiwi business that is locally owned and operated and firmly believes in a no-nonsense approach to every job, no matter how big or small.

Its joinery services cater from large scale supermarkets to residential kitchens and cupboards. It can find a joinery solution to fit your budget, your wants and your needs.

With all aspects of joinery available Hepburn Joinery has a professional and dedicated joinery team with the experience to turn difficult problems into simple solutions.

From design through to installation it can help transform your vision from a concept to the finished result including nationwide, hasslefree delivery.

Owner Mike Bensemann says the business has a joinery solution for everyone. “With many years in the shopfitting business we know that flexibility is the key in getting and keeping your business up and running. We fit around your requirements, because that’s what we do - we work for you.”

Hepburn Joinery was started by Peter Hepburn in 1962; it was then brought by Bruce Coombes who was Peter’s apprentice.

Mike Bensemann then became Bruce’s employee and second in command. Thirty years later Bruce departed and Mike went on to take over the business. “This has kept the company’s values and standards as the years have progressed. The repeat client base and staff retention rate are a testament to this winning formula,” Mike says.

Hepburn Joinery currently employs seven staff members, most of which have been with the company for 10-15 years.

As a locally-owned business Mike and his team have a strong desire to see the city get back on its feet. “We want to be part of the re-build. The city has provided many years of work for Hepburn Joinery and subsequently its employees.

“

With many years in the shopfitting business we know that flexibility is the key in getting and keeping your business up and running. We fit around your requirements, because that’s what we do - we work for you.

Mike Bensemann

“We also want to continue to provide apprenticeships and training opportunities for new employees in the aim of building and retaining quality tradesman in New Zealand,” he explains.

“After 50 years in business Hepburn Joinery has been able to establish long-lasting relationships with the finest suppliers who we can stand behind 100 percent. The best joinery items are only as good as the materials supplied,” Mike explains.

When away from work Mike enjoys fishing and hunting. His wife Lyn also helps out with the paperwork and the large amount of pets they seem to have accumulated over the years. These include two dogs, two cats and 200 birds that Lyn breeds.

Hepburn Joinery is your best choice for professional, efficient and cost-effective joinery work. For a free quote and to discuss your project contact Hepburn Joinery today.

Why choose Hepburn Joinery Experience - Hepburn Joinery offers professional and comprehensive custommade joinery services - from design through to delivery and installation. It has a large nationwide client base and has been producing shopfitting, custom displays and retail fit-outs since 1962.

Design - It has the experience where it counts and can turn difficult problems into simple solutions.

Construction - It has a long-serving team of dedicated professional joiners and cabinet-makers. The business also has a specialist painter and in-house paint shop producing cost-effective quality finishes.

Delivery - A nationwide hassle-free and economical delivery service.

Install - Its flexible and friendly team will fit around your schedule and what works for you to install your new units or fit out at your convenience.

Joinery services

”

Card display stands Crate produce units Office desks and counters Draws and cabinets Shelving display units Filing units Display and bar islands Kitchens Home cabinetry Shop fit-outs Shop fronts Shop display units/counters Supermarket counters/shelving displays Crate storage units Slat walls Perspex display stands/units Custom vehicle fit-outs.

Hepburn Joinery 64 Waterloo Road Christchurch 8042 T (03) 349 9853 F (03) 349 9719 www.hepburnjoinery.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

• Maf/Bonded Storage • Metro Delivery Service • Furniture Removables • Office Relocating • Crane Trucks Pleased to be associated with the Hepburn Joinery’s 50th year Jubilee

Phone: 03-3430002 Fax: 03-3430016 E: pftransp@xtra.co.nz 160 Waterloo Road, Hornby, Christchurch

Congratulations to Hepburn Joinery on their 50th Anniversary

Staybrite Stainless Fabricators (2003) Limited manufactures stainless steel products that are long-lasting & individual.

We specialise in providing the hospitality industry with bench tops & equipment that is hygienic, durable & practical.

Treffers Road, Sockburn Christchurch Ph: 03 348 0733 | E: staybrite@xtra.co.nz

Chartered Accountants with a difference

Supporting Hepburn Joinery and looking forward to working with them for another 50 years Justin LeSueur t 03 366 7154 | f 03 365 4098 | m 021 885 232 e justin.lesueur@ashtonwheelans.co.nz | www.ashtonwheelans.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 43

Goods & Services | Headspace Hair

Getting in the right

headspace

c o m b i n e d

SALON supplies limited PLEASED TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH HEADSPACE HAIR bringing our customers the most innovative, extensive and up-to-date selection of hairdressing and beauty products available in new zealand

Janet Berrett - janetb@cssltd.co.nz PHONE 03 379 9998 | FAX 03 377 2227 TOLL FREE 0508 379 999 364 CASHEL STREET, CHCH 8011

After losing his salon to the CBD red zone and sharing a temporary premise in the suburbs, hair stylist Niq James has returned to the city with a brand new name - ‘Headspace’.

Formally known as Niq James Hairdressing, Headspace is a long-established, contemporary salon, offering a full range of professional services within a stylish and sophisticated environment. The new salon is located at 7/245 St Asaph Street, behind the Buddle Findlay building.

Back in 2002 Niq James opened his first salon based in Hereford Street. After the February earthquake hit Niq and his team worked alongside ‘The Look’ hair salon in Cashmere.

He says the business faced many challenges but knew it was not alone.

“We focused on what we had instead of what we didn’t have. I am truly grateful to Nichola and her team for letting us work out of the salon for those seven months.”

The new salon is urban chic accessorised with plush furnishings and exposed stacked block creating a modern, industrial look.

Clients can enjoy a comfortable atmosphere, with well-appointed décor and Italian shiatsu massage basin units to spoil them. “Every effort is made to make clients feel relaxed as possible, resulting in a wonderful experience while still remaining very affordable,” Niq says.

Headspace is a Wella dedicated salon. Wella is an award-winning range of products designed to care for your hair. It also stocks GHD hair strengtheners – a favourite ‘must have’ hair item. Headspace uses its expertise to create hair and make-up for special occasions such as weddings. “We also have a lot of clients booking their grooms-men in for a hot shave on their big day,” Niq adds.

“In New Zealand you do not need to hold a qualification to open a salon or to employ staff and perform hairdressing. Headspace

“

Every effort is made to make clients feel relaxed as possible, resulting in a wonderful experience while still remaining very affordable.

Niq James

”

prides itself on knowing that everyone in our salon either holds a national qualification or is working towards becoming qualified,” he explains.

The team is enjoying the new premises along with the space it provides. “My team has international qualifications, teaching accreditations and make-up certificates. They are always attending courses and learning new skills and trends.”

Niq and his team want to help support Canterbury and the CBD with the re-build.

“We would like to thank all our clients that have stuck by us over the years and to the numerous amounts of people that helped us fit-out the new salon. I would also like to thank my team for being strong and sticking by me throughout everything that has happened over the last year.”

Custom made cabinetry & joinery to fit your lifestyle!

Lifestyle Joinery offers the very best in design and fabrication of kitchens, vanities, furniture and cabinetry. With over 15 years experience, working with a range of residential and commercial clients.

Proudly Supporting Headspace Hair Design

223 Barnes Road, Christchurch Tel. 03 338 8845 • Mob. 027 481 9200 Email darren@lifestylejoinery.co.nz

PROUD TO SUPPORT HEADSPACE HAIR

(03) 338 8927 105 Wrights Rd Addington, Christchurch jcarchitecture@xtra.co.nz 44 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

For Residential, Red Zone, Unit Title and Rural Conveyancing, Trusts, Wills, Estate Planning and Business Advice

Phone Denise Booth on 03 3793 720 E: denise.booth@laneneave.co.nz

www.laneneave.co.nz

“The weather isn’t always calm, but we provide the necessities to get you home.”

- Graeme Marriott • Full Accounting Service • Accounting Software-Training & Support • Audit and Assurance Services • Business Consulting

We are pleased to be associated with Niq and his team at Headspace Hair.

Christine Johnston, Principal 2nd Floor, 137 Victoria Street T. 03 379 0829 E. christine@marriotts.co.nz W. www.marriotts.co.nz

Goods & Services | Headspace Hair

Meet the team Niq James – owner Former brand ambassador for Wella SP re-launch in New Zealand, platform artist and industry assessor for the Hairdressing Industry Training Organisation (HITO), Niq James is passionate about delivering education. He is precise, insightful and enjoyable for those that attend education workshops with him. Niq is a national competition judge with NZARH and is currently WorldSkills New Zealand Skill Expert for hairdressing.

He has judged international competitions in Australia, Switzerland and London and this year was the winner of HITO New Zealand Hairdressing Trainer of the Year.

Opening hours Closed Sunday and Monday Tuesday 10-8 Wednesday 10-7 Thursday 10-8 Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-4

Headspace 7/245 St Asaph Street Christchurch T (03) 366 1896 E salon@headspacehair.co.nz www.headspacehair.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Lisa – manager Lisa has been working in the hairdressing industry for 21 years and still has the same passion that she did when she started.

Lisa’s goal this year is to put Headspace forward as a leading edge salon with professional, motivated staff that are committed to their clients old and new. She feels that moving back into the CBD is a big step towards reaching this goal.

Pleased to be associated with

Headspace Hair

Melissa Melissa is in the final stage of her qualification. She has a huge passion for hair after working with Niq for over two years.

Melissa is always attending training courses to build a wide variety of skills and experience to be the best she can be. She prides herself for great customer service as she holds a NZ recognised KiaOraMai (customer service) certificate. In 2010 Melissa won first place in the Canterbury Westland competitions for “urban day style”.

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0800 121 413 | aoraki@nzballooning.com PHOTOS COURTESY OF GLOW STUDIO

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 45

Get your heating needs sorted before winter arrives Getting your heat pump cleaned out before winter can significantly decrease your heating bill, says South Island Refrigeration and Heat Pumps director Zane Wilson Young.

His company is offering a $60 domestic heat pump clean to Canterbury Today readers in Christchurch, down from the usual rate of $120.

Winter heat pump cleaning “Leading into winter, this is the time to get your heat pump cleaned,” Wilson Young says.

“Your heat pump can use twice as much power when they’re dirty, as they do when they’re clean. It’s like putting a blanket over the radiator in your car.”

South Island Refrigeration and Heat Pumps considers itself to be the home of heating and cooling in Canterbury. It offers a fast, friendly service and will get out to the customer as soon as possible.

“We believe we’re the cheapest around for heat pump cleaning. Offering a $60 cleaning service was something I wanted to do for people after the earthquake,” says Wilson Young.

“We can’t do it for free but $60 is not a lot to make sure that you’re going to be warm for winter. We will also thoroughly check your heat pump to make sure it’s running properly.”

South Island Refrigeration and Heat Pumps can service any brand of heat pump and specialises in supplying new Panasonic, Mitsubishi, LG and Toshiba units.

Wilson Young says there are now a lot more heat pumps in Christchurch than there were before the earthquakes.

The company is also currently doing a deal on heat pump installations. Customers can buy a Panasonic 6.4 kW heat pump, installed back-to-back for $2700 including GST. South Island Refrigeration and Heat Pumps offers a 24/7 breakdown and repair service for commercial refrigeration units.

Owner Zane Wilson Young, who formed the business four years ago, is a refrigeration and airconditioning engineer with a huge knowledge of the industry.

Today the company’s work is split fairly evenly between domestic and commercial heat pumps, and commercial refrigeration.

Refrigeration usually involves supplying, installing and maintaining refrigeration units in bars, restaurants, coffee shops, breweries and liquor stores.

“Our main refrigeration products come from Skope and we do all of their warranty work. So instead of a customer dealing with Skope, we can deal with the warranty for them through Skope. It doesn’t matter who has installed the product,” Wilson Young says. “We also sell new and second-hand refrigeration cabinets and we lease second-hand cabinets.”

The best possible service Wilson Young says his company prides itself on its customer service and offers a lifetime guarantee on workmanship. “If we can’t get it right the first time, then you definitely shouldn’t be paying us to do it again,” he says.

South Island Refrigeration and Heat Pumps will travel to any customer throughout Canterbury and help them work out exactly what products they need.

“We give them our technical advice on what we believe is best for them. There are so many variations, particularly when you go to do a heat pump installation.

It’s not just as simple as putting it up on the wall. We help people find a solution. Our fast friendly service is big and we try to get to the customer as soon as we can,” says Wilson Young.

“With refrigeration you can’t leave it for too long, so we have a 24-hour callout service for refrigeration.”

Special Offer South Island Refrigeration and Heat Pumps is offering $60 heat pump cleans to Canterbury Today readers.

Fact file: • South Island Refrigeration and Heat Pumps can find you the ideal heat pump for your home.

• The company is currently offering half-price domestic heat pump cleaning to Canterbury Today readers.

• Owner Zane Wilson Young is an experienced refrigeration and airconditioning engineer.

• South Island Refrigeration and Heat Pumps specialises in commercial refrigeration for customers in the food and beverage industry.

• The company supplies only leading brand heat pumps and refrigeration units.

• Qualified staff will travel straight to the customer to help solve their heating and cooling needs.

South Island Refrigeration and Heat Pumps Limited PO Box 80081 Riccarton Christchurch 8041 Freephone (0800) 123 125 M (027) 266 5464 E zane@027cooling.co.nz

Property & Construction | Barrington Shopping Centre

A welcome boost for

Barrington At the foot of the Port Hills, surrounded by peaceful suburbs, schools and a local park sits Barrington Shopping Centre. For 35 years it’s been part of the community in one form or another.

On a typical day there’ll be people hunting for presents at one of the many specialist shops, getting a bargain at the Warehouse or buying books, shoes and clothing.

You’ll see people getting their groceries or visiting the bank and stopping at the bakery because the smell of warm fresh bread is just too intoxicating.

“

We hope the redevelopment will bring new shoppers to the Centre as well as our much loved local regulars. I hope people will see we’re more than an easy place to go for basic needs, but rather now a real shopping destination.

- Barrington Shopping Centre manager Angela Booth

”

But Barrington isn’t resting on its laurels. The suburban centre has recently undergone a multi-million dollar development, meaning the suburban hub now provides an even better range of shops to the public.

The exciting and substantial project, which mostly opened in February, has transformed the shopping centre into a bigger and brighter place to be.

Yesterday and today Parts of Barrington Shopping Centre first began 35 years ago, but the main complex with the well-known rotunda didn’t open until 16 years ago. A much loved local shopping centre, for years locals have visited it for its range of shops, supermarket or to enjoy some delicious food and have coffee with a friend.

Many of the new stores in the redevelopment had their fit outs done and opened on

February 21, 2012. Other stores will take longer to complete their fitouts and they will open in the weeks following. There will be a grand opening for the complex just after Easter.

Among the centres’ new stores there are some fantastic tenants to welcome to the Barrington community – ASB and Westpac will both have bright new branches opening at the front of Barrington’s entrance, in the new extension off Athelstan Street. New clothing retailers have opened including Postie and Pagani. Food retailers Maki Mono, Muffin Break and Wendy’s Supa Sundaes will add to the already varied food offering in the centre.

And those needing a makeover can now visit Simply Beauty, which offers an extensive range of beauty services.

In addition to these new retailers, some existing Barrington Shopping Centre retailers have relocated. Unichem Pharmacy and On Time have both moved into brand new stores in the new extension. Subway will relocate from its current location to a new store next to Barrington’s impressive rotunda entrance.

Moda Bella will also complete a new store fit out in their current location.

• • • • •

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We're proud to stand 100 per cent behind what we sell.

Pleased to be associated with the Barrington Mall Redevelopment www.dorma.co.nz | 0800 4 36762 Door Control / Architectural Hardware • Operable Walls / Room Dividing Systems

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consulting engineers heating + ventilation mechanical • structural hydraulic • electrical acoustic • civil • fire

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• Automatic Sliding, Revolving and Swing Door Operators • Glass Fittings & Systems

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 47

Property & Construction | Barrington Shopping Centre

“

Going forward with the extension we’ve tried to target a broader mix of tenant so we’ve got more variety.

”

- Barrington Shopping Centre manager Angela Booth

“Going forward with the extension we’ve tried to target a broader mix of tenant so we’ve got more variety,” centre manager Angela Booth explains.

We hope the redevelopment will bring new shoppers to the Centre as well as our much loved local regulars. I hope people will see we’re more than an easy place to go for basic needs, but rather now a real shopping destination.

After the February 22nd earthquake in 2011, the centre was fortunate to not suffer any structural damage and opened a few days later.

Due to the closure of so many other places, Barrington Shopping Centre stepped up and serviced the needs of people outside of the local community. This showed management that the centre could extend its demographic and cater effectively to people from across the city.

“We’ve got lots of families in the area and a large number of schools. We’ve got so much on offer – we’ve got new banks opening, exciting new fashion shops and a variety of food offerings.”

The redevelopment building process

Consultants & Contractors

Commercial Tiling, Floor Preparation & Waterproofing High-rise apartments | Office complexes Hospitals | Shopping malls Public and private swimming pools Hotels | Universities | Retirement villages Resorts | City Council projects

Proud to be associated with the Redevelopment of Barrington Mall 15 Michelangelo Drive, Rolleston Ph. 027 4962 772 | www.ahtiling.co.nz Email. info@ahtiling.co.nz

“For the last 15 years Mainzeal has been the preferred contractor for the owner of the mall. We have been very successfully working together on several projects. The project team, including Forme Construction Services, The Buchan Group, Powell Fenwick Consultants as well as our suppliers and subcontractors formed an outstanding team and delivered on time under extraordinary circumstances,”Kaestner explains.

“We have a well-established communication platform which enabled the seamless delivery of a numerous stages. The centre management, tenants and their staff were always involved in the process. All tenants were always considerate and incredibly supportive.”

Earthquakes, aftershocks and snow Kaestner says the redevelopment was a challenging undertaking – it seemed Mother Nature had conspired against them. Not only were there serious aftershocks (including February 22nd) but two serious snowfalls.

Mainzeal Property and Construction Ltd, one of New Zealand’s largest and most experienced commercial construction companies, was chosen to manage this redevelopment project.

“All those events slowed us down, with critical contractors doing emergency work after the big quakes. It was quite a challenge after each event, but we completed the main stage on the original completion date - Tuesday 21st February – thanks to the commitment of our dedicated subcontractors and suppliers.

Mainzeal’s Project Manager Thomas Kaestner says Mainzeal was selected because of its previous experience and proven delivery.

“It’s been a long and enjoyable journey. The commitment shown by the entire team to get this done has been fantastic.”

A new Barrington branch.

A new way to experience ASB. We’re moving into the Barrington Mall at the end of April and we look forward to showing off our great new branch.

See you soon.

ASB Barrington branch Barrington Mall, Spreydon Christchurch.

Branch Hours: Monday - Saturday 9am to 4:30pm Secure Lobby: Open 7 days ASB Bank Limited PPU37774

TAGGART EARTHMOVING LTD

Proud to be associated with Mainzeal Construction Ltd on the Barrington Mall Redevelopment Project Call us for all your earthworks needs - we have equipment to tackle any size job including our own fleet of trucks.

Phone: 03 323 7085 Paul Taggart: 0274 337 873 48 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Property & Construction | Barrington Shopping Centre

“

It’s been a long and enjoyable journey. The commitment shown by the entire team to get this done has been fantastic Thomas Kaestner, Mainzeal

”

Barrington Shopping Centre manager Angela Booth says she is really pleased with the contractors and Mainzeal’s handling of the project.

Together, Mainzeal and PBS are working on projects such as the Airforce Museum upgrade in Wigram and work for the Canterbury District Health Board.

“I’m involved with the day to day work of what Mainzeal has been doing. They are really great to work with – communication is the key and they’ve certainly got a handle on that. It’s been an exciting experience really.”

PBS branch manager Barry Smith says the entire project was an enjoyable one.

The future On Tuesday 21st February, the redevelopment was opened. More than 100 people were in attendance, including the contractors, shop managers and staff. Thomas Kaestner says it was fantastic to see one of the major stages completed.

“There was a fantastic opening function that was facilitated by Colliers International.

The client, architect, consultants, centre management, shop owners and staff, some invited guests and Mainzeal attended– it was great to be together and see it all finished.”

Looking several months ahead to Christmas 2012, the busiest season of the shopping year, Booth has many hopes for the centre’s future.

“Firstly, the remaining stages will be completed, with new tenants in the shops that are opening in June. I hope by Christmas we’ll have new shoppers who have never been here before. Barrington will continue to be a community shopping spot that people really enjoy visiting.”

Professional Building Services (PBS) was in charge of creating the heating, ventilation and air conditioning services for Barrington Shopping Centre. PBS was chosen as a subcontractor by Mainzeal based on its previous experience with the construction company.

“In this project access was good, it was a staged contract so it was a well-planned process and all the trades worked well together. We really enjoyed the opportunity to work with Mainzeal again and will continue to do so.”

About Mainzeal Mainzeal is one of New Zealand’s largest and most experienced commercial construction companies, involved in delivering $7.5 billion of projects across New Zealand.

With more than 40 years of construction experience under its belt, Mainzeal certainly understands the business of constructing sound buildings of every shape and size. Mainzeal’s breadth of experience enables it to tackle a wide array of projects with skill, focus and enthusiasm.

To facilitate this it is building relationships both up and down the supply chain and using an integrated service model to deliver its projects.

By providing ‘Building Certainty’ for its clients and ensuring the project metrics of cost, time, quality and function are achieved, Mainzeal’s clients’ business case metrics are also achieved.

This in turn helps Mainzeal to continuously improve its competitive advantage and secure a diversified portfolio of projects across the country.

• Design • Review • Installation • Commissioning • Maintenance • Inspection • Certification Professional Building Services (PBS) provides a range of Mechanical Services for the Air Conditioning industry.

Pleased to be associated with Mainzeal Construction on the Barrington Mall Redevelopment Proud To Be Associated with Mainzeal and the Barrington Mall Redevelopment

9 Paradyne Place Sockburn | E: pbs@pbs.net.nz | Ph: 03 348 0873 | Fax: 03 348 3628.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 49

Property & Construction | Barrington Shopping Centre

Barrington at a Glance Inside the design

• 47 shops as well as Fresh Choice supermarket and The Warehouse

Mainzeal worked with plans drawn up by Buchan Group Architects who were brought into the process in 2007 when the owners decided the centre needed renovating.

• Several large banks • Two travel agencies • Barrington Shopping Centre is 14,500m2

The architectural firm already had a relationship with the shopping centre having previously completed work prior to this upgrade. For Buchan Group associate architect Raylene McEwan the brief from the owners was significant.

• There are over 550 free carparks • 65,000 people live within a five km radius of the centre, this figure is increasing.

“It was a small neighbourhood centre and the owners wanted to upscale it significantly.”

After about 10 drafts, the light and spacious design you see when you walk into the centre today was decided upon, and the building work began with Mainzeal in charge of the construction contract.

The architects stayed involved throughout the building process. Fortnightly meetings were held with the main contractors including Buchan Group project architect Eric Buhrs and Mainzeal to ensure the building process ran as smoothly as possible. Eric also visited the site weekly.

Communication was the key to ensuring the project was completed with the least inconvenience to both the public who came to shop and retailers within the centre. Mainzeal arranged the logistical process of timetabling part closures of the centre, to ensure efficient building and safety for all those who used the retail space, especially as the seismic activity continued.

The Buchan Group Architects The Buchan Group is one of the largest architectural groups in Australasia, with a staff of almost 350 professionals. The Group is recognised for its design excellence and depth of experience in: • Mixed use developments • Retail What has been most satisfying for both Raylene and Eric is to see their design as an active, living space. “From my prospective seeing people and the tenants using the space is what’s special about it,” Raylene says.

• Entertainment & lifestyle • Hotels • Residential • Commercial offices

Eric agrees, adding that “Seeing the height on • Civic the plans, people didn’t really appreciate what it would be like. Now they can see all the light • Education and space when they use the building.”

• Health.

50 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

It operates across seven locations in Australia and New Zealand including Christchurch, and also has offices in London, Shanghai and Dubai. The Buchan Group worked in conjunction with the Christchurch Restart Group to design the portable modular container village to create a vibrate retail precinct in the central business district after the earthquakes.

Property & Construction | Barrington Shopping Centre

Barrington’s opening hours Monday to Wednesday: 9am - 6pm | Thursday: 9am - 7pm | Friday and Saturday: 9am - 6pm | Sunday: 10am - 5pm | Public Holidays: 10am - 5pm

BUILDING CERTAINTY Mainzeal Property and Construction Ltd is the Main Contractor for the Barrington Mall refurbishment and extension work. Construction began in July 2010 and is due for completion in May 2012.

Mainzeal Property and Construction Ltd is a proud supporter of Barrington Mall.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 51

Property & Construction | Barrington Shopping Centre

Muffin Break Muffin Break is proud to announce its latest store opening in the newly renovated extension of Barrington Shopping Centre!

With locations at Bush Inn, Eastgate, Hornby, Northlands, Riccarton, South City, and The Palms, this latest Muffin Break store opening in Barrington Shopping Centre places this great concept in even more convenient locations across Christchurch.

With 12 years experience with the Muffin Break brand, owner Scott Manderson is proud to open his fourth Muffin Break store and to share in the city’s growth.

“This is my fourth store opening and I’m looking forward to the opportunity. Barrington Shopping Centre is such an exciting location that has experienced so much growth lately, going from strength to strength. More and more people are coming to this side of the city and it’s just great to see how Christchurch is moving forward,” Manderson says.

Manderson’s long history with the Muffin Break brand reinforces his belief in the concept’s strength and success.

“I’ve enjoyed being part of the great Muffin Break system and always enjoy the challenge of opening a new store. I’m proud to represent this great brand,” he says.

Manderson, who prides himself on producing great coffee and delivering fantastic customer service, is excited that his latest Muffin Break store is now open and ready for business.

For nearly 20 years, Muffin Break has been a part of the New Zealand landscape building a strong reputation for delivering fresh baked goodness every day for its thousands of happy and loyal customers.

Muffin Break offers their customers a unique bakery café experience, with great food, fabulous, award-winning coffee, convenient locations and outstanding customer service.

Baked fresh in store every day, Muffin Break muffins run the gambit with a traditional range of muffin favourites such as blueberry and apple cinnamon, to the rich, decadent double choc and more recently a gluten-free range to cater to everyone’s specific appetites!

While famous for their fantastic muffins, Muffin Break also has a wide selection of sweet and savoury menu items including a range of traditional, vegetarian and lite wraps, freshly prepared sandwiches, a variety of savoury and vegetarian gourmet rolls and pastries, traditional quiche favourites, and seasonal soups and salads, as well as freshly baked cakes, loaves and slices.

Every Muffin Break menu item is baked and prepared fresh in store every day by Muffin Break’s team of bakers and complemented with a gourmet espresso coffee menu and extended beverage range. In addition, the Muffin Break espresso blend was recently awarded a Gold and Bronze Medal in the 2011 CSR Golden Bean Coffee Awards.

Gift vouchers Barrington Shopping Centre 256 Barrington Street Christchurch T (03) 332 4221 E manager@barringtonshopping.co.nz www.barringtonshopping.co.nz

Professional Building Services 9 Paradyne Place Sockburn PO Box 8601 Christchurch T (03) 348 0873 F (03) 348 3628 E pbs@pbs.net.nz http://hastiegroup.com.au

Make gift buying easy with Barrington Shopping Centre Gift Vouchers. Available at the management office or Paper Plus Barrington.

Mainzeal Level 1, 57 Princess Street Addington Christchurch T (03) 341 2191 E mzchch@mainzeal.com www.mainzeal.co.nz

Proud to be selected by Mainzeal Construction as the preferred painting contractor for the Barrington Mall extension project

Contact us

for all your commercial painting contracts

Ph: 03 366 3913

Fax: 03 366 4713 | Mob: 0274 761039 Email: jeremy@spencergroup.co.nz

www.spencerpaint.co.nz

Site clearance | Tree Removal Planting | Mulching | Irrigation | Paving Path formation | Lawn sowing/turf laying Decking/stairs/timber structures Small civil construction works Garden Maintenance Pleased to be associated with Barrington Mall redevelopment PH: 03 359 2458 | Fax: 03 3592468 steve@waioralandscapes.co.nz www.waioralandscapes.co.nz

52 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“Principal supplier of building materials to Mainzeal Construction for the Barrington Mall Redevelopment”

RICCARTON BRANCH Ph: 03 348 2039 | www.placemakers.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 53

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Property & Construction | HQ Construction

Your Construction HQ

The desire to make a house into a home is a practice which has been around since cavemen painted cave walls. While our dwellings may have evolved, the desire to personalise our surroundings has not abated. Like the caves of our forebears, the modern home offers more than mere shelter; it offers a vehicle for personal expression.

Today’s houses are designed to deliver structures which are both beautiful and unique expressions of those they shelter; a manifestation of our hopes and dreams. But translating the hopes and dreams of people into a reality is a task few can master.

HQ Construction has long upheld the tradition of establishing homes which are a hybrid of practical living solutions, while realising the hopes and dreams of those they’re building for.

From its beginnings in 2003, HQ Construction has forged an unrivalled reputation for building the highest quality residential and commercial projects, extensive renovations and remodelling. No matter what the project, the common denominator is the dedication to quality work HQ Construction delivers on all jobs.

Spectacular Scarborough

designed with natural cedar cladding to blend seamlessly with the landscape around it, the Scarborough Hill residence epitomises elegance.

Designed for entertaining, outdoor areas connect seamlessly with the inside. Thermal mass, passive ventilation and high insulation values have been implemented to promote efficient energy use, while elegantly long pitched roof lines allow for large north facing areas to capture solar energy.

The property has been cleverly designed to take full advantage of the stunning views present in almost every room and spectacular sweep from mountains to sea, with most of the house positioned on the second level with the garaging underneath.

Working to a detailed brief, Amy Hendry from Four Walls Architecture managed to encapsulate the specific needs of the client with careful consideration of the commanding view and steep sloping site. She produced detailed working drawings and construction documents and worked closely with HQ Construction during the build process.

If you were to take a ride up Scarborough Hill, you might get a glimpse of the level of quality that makes HQ Construction a favourite with architects and clients alike. Positioned to While the finished product proved a striking take advantage of the miraculous view and example of the quality workmanship HQ

T i m b e r

After more than 25 years in business, BBS Timbers has earned a solid reputation as a leading importer of high quality timbers and specialist supplier of imported and local timbers.

www.cedarcorp.co.nz (A Division of BBS Timbers Ltd)

The contract was signed in December 2010 and work commenced just weeks before the February earthquake. Despite the city-wide disarray and the challenges posed by the hillside location, the company was able to finish the build on time and within the agreed budget. “The earthquake never proved to be a physical challenge for us, it was more psychological for our team; the smallest things became huge logistical challenges, but we were able to pull through,” explains HQ Construction founder and director Huntley Quinn.

Huntley had previously renovated and extended another property of the Scarborough Hill owners and with results exceeding their expectations, they decided they didn’t want anyone else building their new home. It’s how the company gets a lot of its work, that and word of mouth.

While he continues to manage HQ Construction, Huntley still maintains a close working relationship with his clients, contractors and team. “Our clients are looking for a combination of innovative design, precision construction and attention to detail; we believe they want a higher level of customer service, clear lines of communication and personal involvement.

My team and I are dedicated to ensuring these needs are met.”

CADDICK

L t d

BBS Timbers is a New Zealand based, family-owned business, established in 1981.

Construction has become renowned for, what was most striking about the build was how it was completed on time and within budget.

Whether you are modernising or building a new house or office, we have the skills and experience to create your dream.

374 Ferry Road, Christchurch p. 03 3892986 | f. 03 3892017

e: tony@timbertru.co.nz

www.timbertru.co.nz

Reinforcing Steel, Round Steel, Deformed Steel High Tensile Steel, Seismic Ductile Mesh Christchurch Owned Free Quote & Measure Free pick up & drop off of plans Houses, Warehouses, Commercial Buildings

BRICK & BLOCK LAYERS LTD Pleased to be associated with

HQ Construction

Bernard

76 Magdala Pl, PO Box 9101, Tower Junction, Christchurch

Ph: 354 6490 | Fax: 354 6492 Cell: 027 229 4308 Email: bcaddick@xtra.co.nz

fenwickreinforcing@paradise.net.nz P. 03 338 3797 | F. 03 338 3793

NZ REGISTERED STRUCTURAL MASON & BRICKLAYERS www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 55

Property & Construction | HQ Construction

Project perfection HQ Construction recently built a master bedroom and en suite for Simon and Amanda Thomas and they were extremely pleased with the outcome, not hesitating to recommend the company.

“He (Huntley Quinn) visited us to discuss our plans and spent time answering all of our questions. We have been very pleased with all of the work, which was completed on time and within budget. We have had many positive comments on the quality of the addition.

“We found Huntley and his team very good to work with. They were professional, friendly and also completed a number of additional tasks for us.”

Huntley’s father had been a builder before him, so perhaps there’s something in the blood. Huntley joined the industry in 1991 before establishing HQ in 2003.

The company specialises in one-off designs, as well as extensions of existing homes and light commercial. HQ Construction has been involved with numerous high profile retail and hospitality fitouts, including No. 4 Bar in Merivale, Burgers and Beers now on Colombo Street, and the Fox and Ferret franchise.

The company was involved with the construction of the Duncan Cotterill premises on Sir William Pickering Drive, the relocation of Marion McKellow jewellery shop in Merivale and the significant renovations of the Cashmere Club.

The brief for the Cashmere Club renovations was all about transforming the premises from a working men’s club into a diverse contemporary establishment. The project involved building three new bars, a new server, new gaming room and new dining area. The transformation has been impressive, going from a dated recreational hall into a stylish and modern function centre.

“A big criterion for the client was to stay fully operational during the renovation process,” Huntley explains. “During the nine months we were working there, it stayed fully operational and the patronage actually increased during that time.”

The company is also involved with earthquake rebuild projects city-wide and is looking forward to supporting Canterbury throughout the rebuild process. The team understands what a frustrating time it is for many trying to understand the processes of EQC/Fletchers/ insurance companies and is available to help.

Accredited with Fletchers and all insurance companies, HQ Construction can take care of the repair process, on your behalf.

Producers and marketers of quality steel and building products STRUCTURAL & GENERAL STEEL FABRICATION

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Proud to be associated with H Q Construction

Telephone: 03 377 3603 Mobile: 0274-323 646 56 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Ph: 03 384 1760 Bromley Steel, 7 Expo Place, Bromley, Chch Fax: 03 384 1765 | Mob: 021 376 635

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Proud to be associated with HQ Construction 55 Hands Road, Middleton, Christchurch ph. 338 9063 | Fax. 338 2829

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Property & Construction | HQ Construction

Who are HQ? For nine years, HQ Construction has been serving Canterbury’s construction needs with high quality building solutions. It’s one of those rare gems in a competitive marketplace where clients come before profits. “We have a really good team environment here and that feeds through to our clients as well.”

More often than not those who start as clients end up as friends, because for Huntley the job isn’t about doing a job. “It’s not really about building houses, it’s about building relationships.

“The house is just a by-product of the relationship.”

Offering the latest technologies, building techniques and materials, HQ Construction has the infrastructure in place to consistently deliver on time to exacting standards, whether through a fixed price or open book contract. Flexibility is another distinctive quality which sets the company apart in a competitive industry.

While some require the complete package, from direction in the early design stages right to being presented with the keys on completion, others may already have designs created and clear ideas of their own.

process. “As much as it is about providing a product, the service we provide is equally important. HQ Construction manages the entire experience from start to finish because it’s about the journey as well as the destination.”

As well as obtaining a tailored new home/ project that is the pinnacle of quality and detail, HQ Construction clients also enjoy what is equally important – a pleasurable building experience and the journey starts from the moment a client makes contact.

From the talented project managers and building supervisors through to our exceptional team of tradespeople, the company’s commitment to personal service together with their expertise, knowledge and reputation, will enable you to relax and enjoy the process.

A Master Builder and LBP, Huntley oversees all trades to ensure your project is delivered to HQ Construction’s exacting standards, managing the hand-selected team of tradespeople and co-ordinating any external trades needed. He’s professional, yet approachable and intuitively works with you to ensure your dream goes to plan.

HQ Construction takes the needs of its clients into account through continual discussion and interaction at all stages of construction, with finished projects reflecting quality workmanship and expert finishing covered by a Master Builders Guarantee, carried out by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP).

HQ Construction we are driven to provide you with excellence throughout the entire building

HQ Construction 118b Wordsworth Street Sydenham T (03) 940 7177 E enquires@hqconstruction.co.nz www.hqconstruction.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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HQ Construction

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 57

Property & Construction | Viridian Glass

There’s more to glass than meets the eye It was an accidental discovery in an ancient kiln in the Mediterranean region almost 4000 years ago, but today glass maintains its position as a major feature of the modern day building.

Ollie Hazan

It took another 2000 years before it was made into thin sheets, strong enough to be used as windows, but the move marked the beginning Today the Viridian Glass range of residential of a very productive relationship between and commercial glass includes double glazed construction and glass. windows, laminated, energy-efficient, safety, security and tinted glasses. Other specialist The Canterbury earthquakes have proved another drawcard for the popular construction products include bushfire resistant, storm material, according to Viridian Glass southern resistant and low reflectivity glass. regional manager Ollie Hazan. “As a building medium, glass has performed well throughout the city and as far as we know, no fatalities were sustained from glass. As a product it is strong, versatile and comes in all shapes and forms. Glass will play an important role in the rebuild of Canterbury.”

Most of Viridian’s glass comes from the company’s flagship manufacturing plants in Australia. But the New Zealand operations are also significant with three main distribution centres in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland, as well as smaller centres supplying the smaller regions.

Home of the Glass Specialists

Bevelled Mirrors | Custom made mirrors All glass products | Full glazing service Glass table tops, cabinets and shelves

No job is too small.

&

Commercial

Mirror Glass Ph. (03) 366 1915 | Fax. (03) 366 1798 | info@mirrorandglass.co.nz 42 Mowbray Street |PO Box 10332, Phillipstown

www.mirrorandglass.co.nz 58 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“

We are continuously working on strategies with builders and architects so we can ensure our products are used to best utilise their efficiency, We have glass for all applications; insulated glass, laminated and toughened glass for safety.” -Ollie Hazan

”

We can provide an excellent level of service for all your Mirror and Glass needs. Working Direct from the factory, we can deal with Trade or the Public.

Our machines polish edges, Bevel edges and drill holes, all shapes and sizes.

“Euroglass supplies a retail range of products; showers, balustrades and internal glass fittings. Together we cover the entire spectrum of glass products.”

Man About Glass

ELECTRONICS LTD • PLC Installation & Servicing • Industrial, Electrical & Electronic Servicing • CNC Servicing • Control Systems

Pleased to be associated with Viridian Glass Telephone: 03 365 5301 Email: diatronics@clear.net.nz 156 Hazeldean Road, Christchurch

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Welcome to Man About Glass Ltd, we are the company to call for all your General, Insurance and Earthquake work.

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Property & Construction | Viridian Glass Energy efficient buildings of the future

Fast facts

These may include low E, or low emissivity products which keep living and work spaces warm in winter and cool in summer with their improved thermal efficiency. Energy and green building issues have impacted the glass industry as a whole and will continue to do so as the green building trend continues to gain momentum,” he explains.

• Established 2007 when CSR purchased Pilkington Australia and renamed it Viridian • Strengthened its already impressive range of building and construction products

The most significant impact has been the demand for glass products, including higher performing architectural windows, framing and curtainwall systems in support of the glass infills.

From the perspective of the glass industry, the biggest impact of green building design has probably been the increased awareness of the energy performance capabilities of today’s insulating glass units with low E coatings, spectrally selective substrates, and lowconductance spacers. Planitherm (a St Gobain product) is the latest addition to Viridian’s low E range.

Planitherm is a very high quality, low E product. These products represent where the glass industry is heading in terms of energy efficiency and the environment.”

Designers and consumers are becoming more educated about the virtues of glass, and the greater awareness has led to continual product development. The newly formed Viridian Glass will continue to focus on technology and innovations that reduce environmental impact of its manufacturing, as well as an overriding focus on developing products that have lower energy consumption and provide additional comfort in the world’s buildings and other applications where glass is used.

“With the use of low E coated glasses, we save heating and cooling energy (natural gas, oil, electricity for heating, and electrical energy for cooling). This results in significantly less energy usage by consumers. Those sorts of savings really make a big difference to the environment,” he states.

Glass itself is one of the greenest products available today. By letting in the good rays and keeping out the bad ones, glass saves on energy costs, providing natural daylight and it harmonises a structure with its environment.

These are just some of the reasons architects and designers have found it fits quite nicely into today’s green building environment.

“We are continuously working on strategies with builders and architects so we can ensure our products are used to best utilise their efficiency,” Hazan explains. “We have glass for all applications; insulated glass, laminated and toughened glass for safety.”

If scale is any measure of success, Viridian Glass certainly is one, making this one space to watch.

• Has a proud history of new and innovative ideas

• Employs more than 400 people nationwide

• Has plants in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington as well as other small towns

Viridian Glass 25 Pilkington Way Wigram Christchurch T (03) 341 5007 E Ohazan@csr.com.au www.viridianglass.co.nz — Advertising Feature

• Supplies residential and commercial grade products • Headed by CEO Brett Cruickshank • Has now joined with Euroglass to

provide an even stronger product range • Now supplies double glazed windows, laminated, energy-efficient, safety, security and tinted glasses • Viridian’s goal is to help the building industry to use glass in extraordinary ways • Is working with architects and

designers to ensure its products are used efficiently • Viridian will have one of the most

comprehensive ranges of products and services combined with great national coverage.

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• Automotive • Aviation • Medical • Engineering • Refrigeration • Meat Works • Electronics • Hydraulics • Marine • Consumer Appliances • Dairy Companies • Industrial Products • Guillotine & Die Cutting 81B Magdala Place, Middleton, Christchurch 8024, NZ P.O. Box 19767, Christchurch, New Zealand Phone: 03 338 6338 | Fax: 03 338 6541 www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 59

Property & Construction | Habitat for Humanity

A place for all people There are many adages which can be used to describe the work of Habitat for Humanity. While ‘a hand up rather than a hand out’ is the most apt summation of the organisation, it fails to completely capture the essence of the charity, which is about eliminating poverty housing worldwide.

While Habitat for Humanity has built more than half a million houses globally, housing some two million people, Christchurch manager Peter Taylor explains that little is known about the organisation’s work on a local level.

“Somewhere like Kathmandu, Nepal we can build a new house for $1200; while it is somewhat more expensive in New Zealand.

We have built 400 houses here since 1993 and we are really gearing up to be a big part of the rebuild of Christchurch.”

Habitat for Humanity is a Christian organisation that was established in the United States in 1976. Habitat welcomes all participants regardless of religious faith. It came to New Zealand shores in 1993 with the sole purpose to eliminate sub-standard housing by building, renovating and selling simple, decent houses on an affordable basis.

<

Volunteers at work on Habitat’s construction project at the University of Canterbury.

The house was later relocated to Kaiapoi.

THE PUMPHOUSE DEMOLITION YARD

But it wouldn’t be possible without strong support from local businesses and community.

Habitat for Humanity relies on donated materials, volunteer labour and interest free finance to secure land and build secure housing for low income families. With generous assistance from the Canterbury Community Trust and an interest free loan from Housing New Zealand, the Christchurch affiliate is in the process of building several houses in Kaiapoi.

Dulux New Zealand has also been a sponsorship partner of Habitat for Humanity since 1997, providing the paint for the houses the organisation builds in New Zealand. In Christchurch, Dulux New Zealand supplied paint for two houses in Breezes Road last year, which were renovated by Habitat for Humanity for their volunteers to use when visiting Christchurch to assist with postearthquake rebuild projects.

& CITY SALVAGE CONTRACTORS - DEMOLITION SPECIALISTS

Pleased to support HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Contact us for a competitive quote for building and house demolitions.

03 389 6638

Since these two houses have been renovated, Dulux New Zealand has continued to work with Habitat for Humanity and Red Cross to help people who have been hardest hit by the earthquakes, to bring their houses up to a liveable state again. Dulux is working with both organisations on about 50 such projects.

544 Tuam Street

PO Box 32139, Christchurch 8147 Email: thepumphouse@xtra.co.nz or citysalvage@xtra.co.nz

< Hoisting a house on to a property in Breezes Rd

Dulux South Island trade manager Kevin Riddle says the company is pleased to be able to participate in the rebuild of Christchurch and also to help so many deserving people to get back into their own houses.

It is a very practical philosophy behind Habitat for Humanity, Taylor explains. “Every family that partners with Habitat for Humanity has to put in 500 hours in sweat equity, working on building the house they will live in. Once they have rented the premises for a period of time, we move them up to a purchase agreement.

“Essentially we are moving people up the economic ladder and within 10 years they will own their own home.”

While Habitat for Humanity gets generous assistance from local organisations, including donated materials and interest free loans, there is still a significant cost attached to the process.

“We welcome donations because, while we get volunteer labour and materials and have sometimes received money to buy the land, there are still significant costs that we have to pay. We are very grateful for the individual donors who make this possible.”

Volunteering is the most common way for people to support Habitat for Humanity.

Christchurch volunteers assist with local builds, but can also travel overseas to build houses in places as diverse as Sri Lanka, Mongolia and Cambodia.

“You don’t have to be a skilled builder to help out,” Taylor explained. “While we welcome tradespeople, by far the majority of volunteers are people who are learning new skills on the job.”

A popular way of helping out is corporate volunteering and Habitat for Humanity offers a practical hands-on approach to giving something back to the community. “We currently have three Christchurch businesses who are committing volunteer hours and we are certainly keen to attract more of that; it’s great seeing the community buy-in.

“Participating businesses are proud to be involved in creating a future for a family.

The volunteers have a practical, fun learning experience and at the end of it all, can point to something that they built. ” This year volunteers will have the opportunity to join Habitat builds throughout Asia.

“We have 300 people going to Sri Lanka in August,” said Taylor. “We are excited at the prospect of building 20 houses in just six days.

It will be a huge buzz.”

The building project is designed to assist in the reconciliation of the Tamil and Sinhalese people who are recovering from a 26 year civil war. People interested in joining this expedition to “The Pearl of the Indian Ocean” should contact Peter Taylor at the Christchurch office.

Habitat for Humanity (Christchurch) Ltd Unit 10-14 Broad St Woolston Christchurch T (03) 420 4342 E office@habitatchch.org.nz www.habitat.org.nz — Advertising Feature

Proudly Supplying

Habitat For Humanity

with all their building needs New Residential to Full Commercial “We’ll see you right”

197 Ohoka Road, Kaipoi Phone 03 327 8829 Fax 03 327 8895 Email:sales@kaiapoiitm.co.nz Web:www.itm.co.nz/sutherland 60 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Property & Construction | Hawkeye UAV

Getting a bird’s eye view When you think of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), the first things that probably come to mind are Predator Drones, circling like birds of prey over combat theatres such as Afghanistan.

But despite ‘military intelligence’ being an all-time great oxymoron, the khaki corps has got this one right, because, as a means of surveying your local surroundings, UAVs are highly effective and massively efficient.

So it should come as little surprise to find the commercial sector sitting up and taking notice. Today UAVs are finding increasing practical uses within the private sector and New Zealand company Hawkeye UAV, is leading the charge with its commercial system called AreoHawk.

It has been designed specifically to provide a cost effective and efficient data acquisition platform for high-end survey use.

Advanced features such as multiple GCS functionality, ArcGIS integration and full

Advantages of a using a UAV are:

simulation environments, sets Hawkeye UAV’s Technology apart from other systems.

• Ability to operate below cloud.

• Detailed and complex flight plans are stored for repeat use.

The AreoHawk is made in collaboration with the NZDF Defence Technology Agency (the autopilots), the Hamilton Aviation Cluster and AreoGraph, an image processing company in Dunedin.

• Low cost offering image change detection options.

• High resolution at low cost.

• Rapid and efficient acquisition

The bird is the product of two years of hard graft and development – one that when tied to the AreoGraph technology, produces world class aerial imaging products.

The advantages of using a UAV commercially are many. Ariel survey operations are limited by aviation law to 400 feet and below, which is nearly always below cloud cover. As cloud is not a factor for a UAV, this means the opportunities for acquisition of aerial imagery are greatly enhanced.

Which Industries can benefit from UAV imaging?

• Civil Government • Mapping • Security • Urban Planning • Mining Three tiers of products are available:

Another significant advantage is that acquiring • Standard GIS mapping grade ortho images imagery of smaller areas is becoming much • Survey grade ortho images including survey more economic and can be done on a more ground control regular basis.

• Survey grade dense digital surface models This means, with the amount of surveying work required in Christchurch and its surround including ground control regions in the coming months and years, the AreoHawk is ideally suited to the task.

Directors Rowland Harrison and David Pemberton attribute their recent success, both at home and in the export market, to the focus on quality and doing one thing extremely well.

• Survey Engineers • Exploration & Resources • Location Services • Agriculture • Internet Mapping • Transportation • Telecom and Utilities • Real Estate

Can a UAV replace Traditional Aerial Photography?

AreoHawk is optimised for high-resolution imaging of 3–30 Sq/km

Hawkeye UAV T (06) 358 1049 E info@hawkeyeuav.co.nz www.hawkeyeuav.com

— Advertising Feature

FREEMAN GROUP NEW ZEALAND STEEL

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 61

The smart choice when it comes to concrete Canterbury homeowners getting their driveways replaced or repaired need to ask more questions and look out for bad contractors, says Groundwork 2003 Limited director Rick Bolton.

While many contractors are doing earthquake repairs for insurance companies, homeowners are not aware they have choices.

Homeowners beware Bolton says homeowners need to be aware that they don’t have to accept the contractor their insurance company sends.

“People do have some say about who is doing their insurance work. They don’t have to use the contractor who is sent, but they don’t realise it,” he says.

“We want people to ask questions about who is coming. With concrete you only get one shot at it.”

However, homeowners also need to be aware that concrete cracks, even without earthquakes.

Groundwork 2003 has been flat out since the first earthquake and has worked hard to ensure it only employs high-quality staff as it continues to grow.

“We have established relationships and contracts with most major insurance companies and housing companies, ensuring our regulations and techniques are up to date,” Bolton says.

New yard showcases work Canterbury homeowners looking for a qualified company to do their driveways and hard landscaping can inspect Groundwork 2003 Limited’s range of products at the company’s new show yard in Shands Road.

The yard is a recent addition to the company and allows customers to see first-hand the high-quality of Groundwork’s concrete, exposed aggregate and asphalt work, as well as the wide range of aesthetic options available.

Director Rick Bolton is available for customers to make an appointment to discuss what product would best suit their needs.

Groundwork 2003 lays driveways, outdoor service areas, carparks, house floors and kerb and channel work to the highest possible standards. It can do any type of concrete finish available, including ground and polished concrete floors, borders and coloured concrete.

“We try to work around the clients and fit in with large contractors when necessary, so it’s more personal for the customer,” he says.

“We work in with all subcontractors, housing companies, landscapers and architects involved in your project, from simple repairs to full demolition and rebuild of your hard surfaces.”

Expertise in concrete Bolton has a comprehensive knowledge of the concrete and construction industries and employs only high-quality staff.

Building concrete driveways is the main part of Groundwork 2003’s work and is an area where the company’s expertise shines.

“We provide a comprehensive service to meet all your driveway and outdoor service needs. We’re top in our field in all aspects of concrete, exposed aggregate, asphalt, kerb and channel work and driveways,” Bolton says.

“I like to give customers advice and be honest about the job. We can give them full design advice right through to landscaping if they want, as well as advise them on practicality and looks.

“We get a lot of our work because we’re straight up. We tell them what can be done and what shouldn’t be done.”

Facts about concrete: • Well-designed and placed concrete offers exceptional durability and long-life in any structure.

• Concrete is available in a huge range of surface finishes.

• Concrete can be used inside and out, for residential and commercial buildings, and in modern and contemporary designs.

• Exposed aggregates offer a unique stony texture and appearance, with a selection of locally sourced stones available to choose from.

• Sealing exposed aggregate protects the surface from staining and marking and enhances the natural colour of the stone.

• All concrete will crack, but construction cuts are done within 48 hours of laying to reduce the chance of uncontrolled cracking.

• Stamping concrete adds colour, pattern and texture.

“Our aim is to help minimise the stress of at least this part of your repair/rebuild for you.”

- Groundwork 2003 Limited director Rick Bolton

For Inspiration visit our Website: www.groundwork.net.nz Groundwork Limited | 0800 UR DRIVE (87 37483) | F (03) 349 4308 | E groundwork@orcon.net.nz

in review Vivid vision Whether you lead two people or 2,000 it is critical that you have a clear, compelling and extremely well-communicated vision of where the organisation is headed and what it stands for. The mission (or purpose) is why the company exists, the values are the guidelines for behavior, and the vision provides a vivid description of where the company will be in the future.

The key to Mission, Values and Vision (M/V/V) is not just creating them, but they need to be communicated and applied throughout the organisation.

Title: Awesomely Simple Author: John Spence Publisher: Jossey-Bass

Ideas for bringing M/V/V alive include:

Awesomely Simple examines the key to business success and is based on the author’s work with thousands of organisations (including GE, Microsoft, IBM, and Abbot Labs). This success is tied to the disciplined application of the Six Principles of Business Success:

• Using M/V/V in the recruiting process by creating specific interview questions to identify alignment to them. Communicate repeatedly these elements in company newsletters, presentations, and signage.

Create fun posters, apparel and other items that reflect M/V/V.

1. Vivid Vision

• Audit how well the company is living its M/V/V through customer or employee surveys.

2. Best People 3. Robust Communication 4. Sense of Urgency 5. Disciplined Execution 6. Extreme Customer Focus Application of these principles may be simple, but not easy. It requires leaders with a passion about their business and its success, persistence, practice, and perspective to see patterns and trends that others do not.

• Rewarding employees for demonstrating the values.

Best people The success of your business is directly tied to the quality of the people you have on your team. Many companies say’, “Our people are our most important asset”, but very few have put in place a system to make talent management a key strategic advantage.

With the right people in the right culture, success and profitability will result.

Attracting talent is a strategic commitment that will take ongoing time and effort. Leaders should maintain a roster of great people for every position, whether the position is currently vacant or not (talk to people now who may fill a position five years from now) and spend time identifying and keeping in touch with these individuals.

Speed requires making decisions, often in an environment of imperfect information. To make good decisions:

The best talent is attracted to a strong culture, and an organisation with clear M/V/V.

• intended results or outcomes must be clear.

• information must flow easily within the organisation. There can be no ‘hoarding’ of information, knowledge or learning and it must move without friction

Talented people demonstrate the 5 ‘C’s – Competence, Character, Collaboration, Communication and Commitment.

With these components, all employees can make decisions about their priorities; deciding what to do and, more importantly, what NOT to do.

Hiring the best talent is not enough. Once hired, people need to be highly engaged in the organization. Engaged employees is the single greatest driver of customer satisfaction and loyalty and overall company success.

Bureaucracy can be the enemy – seek to eliminate hierarchy, bureaucracy, inefficiencies and any activities that do not add value, serve customers, or make employees more effective.

Robust communications

Disciplined execution

Communication breaks down in many organizations at two levels, interpersonally and organisationally.

Many companies have grand ambitions, but only about 10 percent of businesses can effectively execute on their strategic priorities in a disciplined and thorough manner. Urgency and discipline can exist together and must be balanced.

Strong interpersonal communication involves open dialog, building rapport, active listening, awareness of body language and a willingness to engage in constructive conflict. Constructive conflict is difficult and requires courage and honesty.

Leaders must model strong interpersonal communication skills, while being authentic and brutally honest in confronting reality and communicating the decisions and strategies moving forward.

Sense of urgency In business today, speed rules. If you cannot move quickly the competition will - not to mention that customers hate waiting and are becoming more and more conditioned to instant response.

Disciplined execution requires: • Systems and processes that align to strategic goals.

• Individual objectives that tie strongly to corporate objectives.

• Mechanisms for continuous improvement or innovation of processes.

• Give people the resources, tools and training to perform well in their roles.

Article kindly supplied by business execution experts RESULTS.com. For more information visit www.results.com

Life is tough – but some constructions are tougher “Christchurch has suffered significant liquefaction. Many areas now require special foundations and some areas are only suitable for light weight timber floors and driven piles.

Lightweight transportable homes can be releveled quite easily.

Out of the ruins and rubble of Canterbury a new city will rise.

Christchurch can be a showpiece for design, construction and Kiwi engineering expertise.

Laing Homes managing director Grant Laing sees the potential of quality transportable prefab homes as the answer to many affected property owners woes. Laing Homes has been part of a family operated relocation company since 1987.

“We have basically built a prototype high-end transportable prefab house. We decided to design that about 18 months ago. David Hill of Wilson Hill Architects has come up with a truly unique and innovative design using high quality materials made here in New Zealand including Metrapanel ceilings and walls,” Grant says.

“We’d already been working on an architecturally designed home for the last couple of years. Our resolve to push on with

“The other major attraction to Laing houses is they can be built off site allowing the damaged home to be removed and replaced quickly. We’ve created a truly unique transportable pre-fab home with a 2.7metre stud height. Doing that often means you have to compromise transportability, but we haven’t. a quality transportable prefab home was strengthened after the earthquakes.

“One of the fundamental points of difference of our design is you can grow the home. It comes as a primary model that showcases what you can achieve with a prefab property.

It is a growing concept meaning you can add to it. Whilst it won’t suit everyone’s price range we can adapt other designs to suit a budget. We have a whole range of homes in styles and pricing levels that utilise the strength and resilience of Metra Panel to speed up construction time.

“The Smart House on display at the Hive Innovation Park is a hybrid construction using Metra Panel walls and ceilings. We’ve tried to show what you can achieve with very good architecture and prefab techniques.

“Basically it is the speed and strength of Metra Panel that makes them the building product of choice for Falcon,” he says.

Metra Panels require little, if any, stopping and the strength of the Metra Panel/concrete wall system is ideal for Canterbury, especially with all the aftershocks.

“We re-visit all our buildings after major shocks and not one of them has required any remediation,” Mark says.

Falcon Construction was one of the principle sponsors of the giveaway Hayes family home built for a Canterbury family in need. At the opening ceremony Government ministers “David designed a very clever roof pitch. We were impressed by the quality of the CUBE avoided the temptation of a flat roof or monohome with a myriad of opportunity for pitch roof. And we avoided temptation to have government projects. internal gutters. A maximum ceiling height without compromising transportability allows “The beauty of Falcon’s Cube buildings is that for full length windows. A high stud offers an they are designed to be fully de-constructed so they can be moved quite easily if the desire illusion of space. arises to relocate,” Mark says.

“Using Kiwi made Metra Panel gives our “We recently built a 228m2 building for design additional strength and bracing Anstice Opticians in just 29 days.” without compromising quality. We’re going back to building systems that have been tried The Christchurch quakes took a devastating and tested for years and added to with very toll on our city, but along with this devastation good design.” comes opportunity; the opportunity to start from scratch building a modern safe city.

Falcon Construction commercial project manager, Mark Tutty says his company is “Where else do you have an opportunity to also using Metra Panel in its commercial and build an entire city? Why wouldn’t you use the residential buildings due to the speed of best products available?” construction pre-cut walls, panels and ceilings To view more about Metrapanel earthquake provide as well as the superior finish and resilience visit http://metrapanel.co.nz durability of the larger than average panels. www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 63

Hospitality | Festive NZ

“

I think what sets us apart from other companies is our design edge, the quality of service and our ability to customise as well as our loyalty to our dealer network.

displays

Distinctive Festive New Zealand Ltd, which this year marks its 15th year of business, was established in Christchurch in 1997 to design and manufacture food display cabinets, a market which was poorly served in the South Island.

During the past 15 years it has grown to be a nationwide market leader in designing and producing high quality food display cabinets for both hot and cold food.

“The industry which we service is a 24/7 industry and our customers demand reliability and immediate response should problems arise.

Festive designed cabinets incorporate innovative design and technology which sets them apart from other cabinets. With their stylish look, minimalist framing and uncluttered interiors, Festive cabinets both maximise display space and enhance the presentation of food.

“As the cabinets are manufactured in New Zealand the company can provide outstanding support and service to its many customers, backed up by a comprehensive network of sales agents, skilled trades-people and overnight spare parts delivery.”

Festive owner James Anderson says the cabinets are manufactured to the highest quality standard and they stand behind their products with unrivalled service and support.

Festive offers one of the most extensive ranges of food display cabinets on the market and the company’s ability to customise its products to a client’s specific needs is unrivalled and has led the Hornby-based company to take on some challenging and high profile projects. These include helping to outfit the café in the Auckland City Art Gallery and incorporating under shelf LED lights into a cabinet for Elske, an upmarket bakery in Newmarket, Auckland.

A wide variety of options in the production of the cabinets are available, including: colour powder coating and stainless steel finishes, curved and flat glass fronts, and serve-over and counter-top cabinets.

”

Festive is an industry leader with its innovative design and technology. All cabinets have been designed to minimise frame and maximise glass. “That ensures our client’s customers can view more of the product on display and that the food is shown off at its absolute best.”

Among Festive’s leading technical innovations are: The Conpak compact refrigeration system, developed to provide a unique counter-top cabinet which simply sits on the bench and requires no joinery cut-outs, pipe work and plumbing.

The SureVap technology that deals with condensate drainage as part of the refrigeration system, leaving no need to empty buckets or drain condensate to waste outlets.

The DuraCoat system, developed specifically for Festive refrigeration coils, provides a “We also offer joinery solutions that integrate protective coating over the evaporator coils to prevent food acid corrosion and ensure longwith our cabinets as well as a customisation capability which allows us to develop products life operation. that meet specific customer needs,” James Anderson says the company continues James says. to invest heavily in research and development “All cabinets are rigorously tested and subjected to robust quality control. We use high end European and Japanese refrigeration and heating componentry which ensure our products are both reliable and durable.”

to bring exciting new products to the market.

“I think what sets us apart from other companies is our design edge, the quality of service and our ability to customise as well as our loyalty to our dealer network.”

ADVANTAGE

CALL US BEFORE WE RUN OUT

Eurotec are Proud to be associated with Festive Limited Ph 09 579 1990 | sales@eurotec.co.nz | www.eurotec.co.nz

64 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Paul Ph: 03 349 9353 Mob: 027 448 2387 | E: paul@dcwelding.co.nz

Ready-To-Weld Packages Robust design Premium arc Built-in VRD Soft & Crisp mode Auto Adaptive Arc Force Built in “Hot Start” Long Cables Lift TIG Generator ready Portable

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Hospitality | Festive NZ When James Anderson was investigating investing in Christchurch food display cabinet manufacturer Festive NZ Ltd, some labeled him as either mad or courageous.

wife to Christchurch in 2003 working as a new product commercialisation consultant before looking to apply his management experience by investing in his own company.

However, the epithets weren’t related to the financial well being of his prospective investment, that was solid, but rather it was the ground underneath the company’s premises in Gerald Connolly Place in Hornby and across Christchurch in general that was in question.

“One of the things that attracted me to Festive was their investment and involvement in innovate design and technology,” James says.

However, James was undaunted and carried out his due diligence on the company. On July 1, just a short time after the June earthquake which again pounded Christchurch, he became the sole owner of Festive NZ Ltd. The former Hamiltonian, whose wife is from Christchurch, says his confidence in buying Festive reflects his commitment to the Garden City.

“While the factory received some minor damage in the September quake due to the Greendale fault there has been little subsequent damage. It indicated to me that to have sustained minimal damage through those events the building was of sound construction, so it made my decision easier.”

James says the support he received from the former owners was important in making it a smooth transition into the new ownership.

“One of the owners, Kevin Beck, stayed with us for seven months and we had a great working relationship which made for a very easy transition.”

James had been looking for some time to make an investment to enable him to utilise the business management skills and new product commercialisation consultation experience he had developed over the years.

Initially James had trained as a vet before moving on to become manager of InterAg, a veterinary device manufacturer. He gained his business management skills through completing an MBA at the City of London Business School in England. After spending some time in Australia he moved with his

“While I had no direct experience in the industry I was excited by the potential Festive had to offer. It also has a small export base and as well as developing new products for the New Zealand market I am looking to grow that export market.”

James acknowledges that his staff will play a huge role in maximizing that potential growth, with Festive currently employing 13.

“The staff is a huge part of our competitive advantage. I have a great team, who work extremely hard to make an exceptionally good product. They are all very capable and there’s a good vibe and culture in the company. Our factory manager has been here since day one and that is a huge amount of accumulative knowledge which adds to our competitive advantage.”

FACT FILE

James knows he has a challenge on his hands to grow the company but is confident the building blocks are in place.

free standing, counter top and drop-in

“Festive is a nationwide leader in the design and manufacture of custom cabinet solutions.

Our experience in this area allows us to produce cabinets which meet the specific needs of customers. Cabinet dimensions, cabinet colour, glass effects, doors shelving and lighting, even the addition of cabinet accessories, can all be customised by our team.

sushi decks

Who: Festive NZ Ltd

Up-market Auckland bakery Elske has benefitted from Festive’s ability to customise food display units to its clients needs.

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“I became aware of the opportunity which Festive presented just two weeks after the February 22 earthquake,” James says. “People told me that no one was looking to invest in Christchurch at that time and that I was either mad or courageous.”

The café in the Auckland City Art Gallery was one of Festive’s more challenging projects.

Where: 6 Gerald Connolly Place, Hornby, Christchurch What: Manufacturer of high quality food display cabinets Hot, cold and ambient

chill wells and bain maries

Clientele: cafés, bakeries, restaurants, catering companies

“In addition to that we have a proven range of stock cabinets with brands such as Tower, York, Regent, Lincoln, Devon, Norfolk and Somerset, all built by us to a high quality.”

Festive NZ Ltd 6 Gerald Connolly Place Hornby Christchurch T (03) 349 3880 E sales@festive.co.nz www.festive.co.nz — Advertising Feature

www.ashleyindustrial.co.nz

For Your Quality Timber Solutions Sawmill and Customised Timber Packaging Domestic and Export AsureQuality ISPM-15 Accredited

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Visitors to Auckland Zoo have a clear picture of the food on display thanks to Festive.

8 Mill Road, Oxford 7430 Ph: 03 312 3341 | Fax: 03 312 3346 Email: ashleyin@xtra.co.nz

A global leader in commercial refrigeration, building its vision of being first choice in refrigeration.

Refrigeration Equipment | Air Conditioning Equipment | Chillers Refrigerants Gases & Oils | Parts & Accessories

Pleased to be associated with Festive Ltd www.heatcraft.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 65

Hospitality | Dome Hills High Country Lodge

High country

Luxury Nestled among the tussock of New Zealand’s high country is Dome Hills Lodge, offering guests the chance to relax and immerse themselves in an authentic high country experience.

Dome Hills is a high country sheep and cattle station that lies a 45 minute drive northwest of Oamaru, near Danseys Pass. Take the road that climbs above all this, up into the foothills of the Kakanui Mountains and you come to the remote lodge. The high country property is based on farmland where a world of mustering by horseback still takes place.

accommodation. The 6500ha station is home to beef cattle and a ewe flock, with calves and lambs being finished on the property.

The previous owners (David’s parents) retired and moved to Christchurch leaving Cindy and David to carry on the family tradition.

From sky scraping mountains to stretched out beaches, the lodge accommodation at Dome Hills Station is close to a variety of local activities and attractions.

A unique experience

Today owners David and Cindy Douglas offer guests the ultimate getaway. The couple both own and run the farm along with the lodge

Home of Pasquale and Kurow Village Wines, made in the Waitaki Valley

Cellar Door - 10am to 4pm - Open Daily Cafe - 10am to 4pm - Wed to Sun October through to March

Pleased to be associated with Dome Hills High Country Lodge

WAITAKI VALLEY - OTAGO NEW ZEALAND

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24/7 Emergency Breakdown Service LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Ph: 03 436 0443 | E: cellardoor@pasquale.co.nz | www.pasquale.co.nz 66 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

03 434 6801 | tcstyres@xtra.co.nz www.advantagetyres.com

Cindy talks highly about her love of the country. Raised in the Canterbury high country, she moved to Dome Hills when she and David married in the early 1980s.

“When David’s parents retired, I decided to look after the homestead and use it as a lodge. Dome Hills has been in David’s family for around 90 years originally bought by his great-grandparents. We offer guests an authentic experience of our way of life and we want to preserve our heritage,” Cindy explains.

Four generations of the Douglas family have lived at Dome Hills where mustering is still done by horseback through the high tussock land. Although mustering continues all year, the cattle musters are mainly in autumn.

“Guests can head out with David and get a taste of rural life anytime of the year. You can horse trek on the farm, or hop into the truck to enjoy the roller coaster hills, before reaching the tops to truly take in the beautiful scenery,” Cindy says.

“If guests are here at the right time for the mustering, then I can take them to be involved or to watch, either on horseback or, if they can’t ride, then in the truck. They love it I hear it so often, ‘all my life I’ve wanted to go into the high country on a cattle muster’.”

Hospitality | Dome Hills High Country Lodge

“

A great destination

It’s the ideal base for trips around the South Island, including Mt Cook, the Waitaki Valley and Naseby. After a day of activities you can head back to the warm confines of the lodge where an open fire and well stocked pantry will greet you.

Cindy Douglas

Spanning across 32,000 Kilometres, the South Island’s Otago region holds something for everyone. Dome Hills is close to many activities in the Waitaki Valley. The Elephant Rocks, Tokarahi Golf Course and the Maerewhenua River are only 10 minutes away. Duntroon, Maori rock drawings and The Vanished World Trail are also worth visiting.

There you can visit the land that captured dolphins, sharks and whales, during an era when the now rural area was under water.

The trail shows how the landscape has changed over the past 26 million years when it was still part of the ocean floor.

”

Kurow has boutique wineries with the Vintners Drop featuring Ostler and other locally grown wine and the Kurow Winery is also a great place to stop by for lunch.

Further a field are the lakes and Benmore Hydro Dam. Down to the coast is Oamaru with its famous historic precinct and little blue penguin colony. Then further south is the Moeraki Boulders and Fleur’s restaurant that specialises in seafood.

The lodge is available on a sole occupancy basis, with special rates for longer stays. For all inquiries, or personalised packages contact Cindy and she will be happy to help.

Dome Hills High Country Lodge 763 McKenzie Road Livingstone Oamaru 9491 T (03) 431 2585 E escape@domehills.co.nz www.domehills.co.nz — Advertising Feature

High country accommodation Accommodation at Dome Hills offers guests a unique high country experience and holiday among magnificent scenery, with the opportunity to explore the rivers and hills on foot, mountain bike or horseback and be part of a working station.

The lodge built in Oamaru stone is perfect for retreats, honeymoons, family holidays and for guests to fish, hunt, play golf, cycle and hike.

“It’s the ideal base for trips around the South Island, including Mt Cook, the Waitaki Valley and Naseby. After a day of activities you can head back to the warm confines of the lodge where an open fire and well stocked pantry will greet you,” Cindy says.

The four bedroom lodge has a landscaped, private garden with two separate living areas, both of which offer expansive views of the surrounding alpine ranges.

It is a short walk to the wool shed, yards and Cindy and David’s homestead but far enough away to be private and secluded. With a private, outdoor barbecue area guests can relax and enjoy themselves. Cindy says that those seeking a private retreat can be left to their own devices.

“However, if you want a more pampered affair then you can be treated to breakfast, lunch or dinner cooked by myself. Some guests like to enjoy a cooked breakfast or take a picnic out on a long walk and that’s where I come in to help.”

Wine from the Waitaki Valley, award-winning Whitestone cheese and local beef and lamb are some of the delicacies on offer.

The interior of the lodge is decorated in a neutral palette, with variations of off white and dark wood. Furniture is large and comfortable, in cream and browns, with the kitchen and dining rooms featuring natural wood furniture. The kitchen is fully equipped for guests to self cater if they choose. Its amenities include a dishwasher, coffee machine, microwave, fridge, oven and stocked pantry cupboard. The living room has an open fire with stacked stone surround and firewood is supplied. A stereo, TV, DVD player, wireless internet and a selection of reading material is also available.

The three double bedrooms and one single room are all furnished with luxury linen and duvets, with Linden Leaves products in the bathrooms. “One of the drawcards about the lodge is the under-floor heating which is very cosy in the cold winter months,” Cindy says.

Waitaki Valley Wines of distinction

Liquorland Oamaru are proud suppliers to Dome Hills High Country Lodge Suppliers to Hotels, Bars, Restaurants, Sports Clubs & Cafes througout North Otago

Liquorland Oamaru, 261 Thames St, Oamaru Ph 03 434 9883...

Owned & operated by the Oamaru Licensing Trust for the community

7 vineyard-designate cool climate wines from 3 sites •Pinot Noir •Pinot Gris •Riesling - includes our renown •Caroline’s Pinot Noir •Audrey’s Pinot Gris •Lakeside Riesling

Available from Vintner’s Drop, (Old Kurow Post Office) 45 Bledisloe Street, Kurow, North Otago 9435 Or contact us: Ph: 03 436 0545 Fax: 03 436 0549 E: info@ostlerwine.co.nz

Pleased to be associated with Dome Hills High Country Lodge www.ostlerwine.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 67

Hospitality | Sevantis

Sample menu

Simply Sevantis Sevantis Restaurant and Cafe is well known for its fabulous food, relaxing decor, ambience and friendly service. It offers a delicious evening menu with an option for lighter cafe meals during the day.

Owners Wilf and Lynette Lock purchased the business in 2009 after selling their previous business, New Zealand cleaning franchise brand, ‘Busy Bees Cleaning and Services Group’. The couple wanted a new challenge and found it in a neighbourhood restaurant that needed a new lease of life.

The business has expanded with many locals and visitors calling in for their daily coffee fix or sitting down to enjoy lunch with friends. Wilf says when dining at Sevantis, you can expect great service with traditional style meals cooked and presented to a high standard. “We are confident that our steaks are the best around, with many other exclusive mouth-watering dishes to choose from to tempt your tastebuds.”

Professional service, fully-qualified chefs and a consistent quality of food, has been the continuing goal for Sevantis. Throughout its

menus it aims for fresh uncomplicated dishes that really support the taste and texture of New Zealand produce.

Sevantis caters to its customers from serving take-away coffee, brunch and lunch, through to an extensive a la carte dinner. The café can seat 50 people inside and a small outdoor courtyard offers a tranquil setting whilst soft background music plays. When the café has finished for the day it becomes a more formal but relaxed setting, turning into a restaurant.

Sevantis operates a fully licensed bar with an extensive selection of wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks. Coffee is sourced from the local and popular brand, Coffee Worx so coffee connoisseurs can be guaranteed that it is a destination for that consistent ‘great cup’. Since purchasing the business Wilf has become an expert ‘wine taster’ thanks to the many suppliers who try to get their products in the cooler at Sevantis.

Last year Sevantis Restaurant and Café was voted in the ‘Top 150 New Zealand Restaurants’ by Cuisine Magazine. Wilf and Lynette believe the secret of a successful restaurant is the ‘welcoming feel’. “A relaxed atmosphere and friendly, efficient service is important to us, plus being in the suburbs also means that parking is a breeze,” Wilf says.

“Feedback from our customers is excellent and many come back after having a great experience previously. We want to ensure customers have a great time all the time.”

Breakfast Eggs Benedict $19.50 Toasted ciabatta bread topped with poached eggs, hollandaise sauce and your choice of bacon, or smoked salmon.

“

Pancake Stack $16.50

We are confident that our steaks are the best around, with many other exclusive mouth-watering dishes to choose from to tempt your tastebuds.

”

Tuscan Delight $ 17.50 Grilled portabella mushroom topped with courgettes, tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplant and herbs - served with a gourmet salad.

BLAT $ 18.50 Deliciously grilled bacon, tomato, avocado and salad - drizzled with aioli and served between toasted ciabatta bread.

Grilled Scallops $21.00

Opening hours Closed Mondays Tuesday to Sunday 9.30am till close 9.30am - 2.30pm for brunch/lunch menu 5.30pm dinner menu Cafe menu available from 9.30am - 4.30pm.

Succulent grilled scallops served on pea puree accompanied with a petite salad Beef Fillet $ 38.50 Tender beef fillet cooked to your liking. served on a crispy potato rosti and topped with a medley of roast vegetables and red wine jus.

Herb Crusted Lamb Rack $ 36.00 Herb crusted lamb rack served on garlic rosemary mash with honey glazed carrots and jus.

A C C O U N T A N T S

Proud to be associated with Sevantis Restaurant and Cafe

Lunch

Dinner

Miller Gale & Winter C H A R T E R E D

Three delicious light pancakes served with cooked banana and berries. Topped with maple syrup and a side of cinnamon whipped cream.

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68 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Sevantis Restaurant and Café 70 Kendal Ave, Burnside, Christchurch T: (03) 3588810 E admin@sevantis.co.nz www.sevantis.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Hospitality | Interior Flair

A little Flair

for the big day

There’s something special about the Kiwi business that started from home; it begins with just an individual and an idea before it takes off – all in the name of passion.

It’s the story of Interior Flair, which started life some 15 years ago when Lynn McKinney began arranging artificial flowers from home.

“I was going to all the shows; Home and Garden, Women’s Lifestyle Expo and upmarket flower shows like Ellerslie.

There was no turning back and the wedding business was born. But it is far from just flowers.

Lynn began by selling wedding flowers and products online and before long had moved into wedding hire. “By that stage I needed a premises. Getting a premises was driven solely by need and since then the business has just continued to grow.”

“I was hiring space in Northlands Mall for Mothers’ Day and Christmas, doing artificial flowers, when a lady and her daughter from Tauranga asked if I would do wedding flowers. That premises was on Lincoln Road, until seismic activity forced the move to 393 Main The daughter was getting married in Fiji and South Road in the Branston Shopping Centre. they weren’t able to take fresh flowers.”

Keith Yardley & Associates Limited Chartered Accountants

Proud to be Advisers to Interior Flair For Professional, Personal Advice & Assistance On Annual and Periodic Financial Statements Tax Advice & Return Preparations Buisness Planning & Advice Business Appraisals

“We lost our shop in February, however, it has had a silver lining for us, as we are very happy with our new location. We are now placed between the clock tower and the traffic lights opposite Dress Mart.”

Today Interior Flair offers a diverse and varied range of wedding bouquets and accessories, both for purchase and for hire; from wishing wells and table runners, to candles and guest books. “We do pretty much dow everything for a wedding other than dress making,” she laughs. “We have aimed to make this a one stop shop.”

In fact, Interior Flair also supplies wedding gifts; well, any gifts. Virtually split into two, the shop contains giftware for just about everyone and every occasion, including women’s accessories, clothing, home wares, ornaments, wall art and fragrances. It looks stunning and smells even better, the atmosphere is warm and friendly and you can’t help but venture in as you attempt to walk past.

“I’ve always done flowers; it’s just something I’ve always been drawn to. With artificial flowers they can go New Zealand wide, you can get them prior to the wedding so there’s no stress on the wedding day, they photograph really well and last for ages.

While the wedding and gift industries are competitive, Lynn has found her own niche market. “No one does exactly what we do in terms of a one stop shop, with wedding supplies and gifts in the one location.

The company’s price point has a lot to do with its success, she suspects. “We are a one stop shop, so we save people a lot of running around for things. We are constantly changing products to keep things fresh. Presentation is also huge; we have a table set up so people can have a play around, put together table designs for ideas.

“But the real key is having great staff on board; we have warm staff members who

people are quite happy to talk to and bounce ideas off – that makes a huge difference. We are happy for people to come in as often as they need to, whether they change their designs or just want to talk things over; things don’t always pan out and we want our customers to know they can come in and change their minds as often as they want until they are completely satisfied with their designs.”

They all keep an eye on the latest trends in weddings to ensure they can keep their clients up to date. “There’s still a real variety in trends at the moment. Fish bowls are particularly popular at the moment, as is the five arm candelabra we stock. We source a wide range of different fabrics for chair sashes, but even the colour trends are wide and varied at the moment, although the classic black and white theme has been popular this year.

“We are continually sourcing new products and talking to suppliers. We have exceptional suppliers who will do their best to get specific products in for us, which is fantastic because in terms of numbers we are a small country and we are competing against companies in the States who are ordering thousands of things, yet our suppliers are still able to source what we want and need.”

Lynn is passionate about what she does and even though there’s the occasional ‘bridezilla’, she wouldn’t change it for the world. “I’m just so passionate about what we do here. You get the occasional bride who is under a lot of stress, but the final outcome makes it all worthwhile.”

Interior Flair 393 Main South Road Hornby Christchurch T (03) 349 4713 E interflair@slingshot.co.nz www.interiorflairgifts.co.nz — Advertising Feature

237 Warakei Road, Bryndwr, Christchurch Phone: 03 351 6963, Fax: 03 351 6942 Email: info@kya.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 69

Agribusiness | Irrigation NZ

Keeping it green, but also clean Water quality has been a topic of discussion from all sectors of society as we attempt to balance the needs of our lucrative primary sector with our desire to keep New Zealand clean and green.

The answer to this dilemma is quality irrigation. Working to promote excellence in efficient water management throughout the country, based on the principles of responsible and sustainable water management, is Irrigation New Zealand Inc. Formed in 1978, and now with more than 3600 members representing over half the country’s irrigated area, the organisation is constantly working to make irrigation more profitable whilst achieving future environmental performance targets.

wants, soon we’re going to see what kind of limit reflects the community’s desires.

Once you’ve got these limits, the biggest challenge is meeting them – the way forward, the industry is promoting is adopting ‘Good Management Practise’ – the standards we have developed around how to use water efficiency and hopefully that will be the way forward.

“We have got an understanding now around the conditions and environment that triggers what we don’t want to see happening in our water and early indications of our good management practise being implemented shows this will get us to where we need to get to.

Andrew Curtis, the industry group’s chief executive, says the introduction of fresh water standards by the Government last year means objectives can be set around what kind of water quality communities want to see. This is “The industry feels we really can actually achieve some of this water management a positive move, Curtis says, but a quality stuff, there is a whole heap of water complex one. available in New Zealand – I think everyone “Now it’s mandatory to set those fresh water agrees there is enough water available as objectives around what the community long as everyone uses it wisely.”

2012 INZ Conference One of the key vehicles used by Irrigation New Zealand Inc to bring together interest groups and irrigators to debate relevant industry issues is its biennial conference.

In 2012 the conference is being held from April 2-4, at the SBS Events Centre, Timaru and there will be lots of thinking to be done, new ideas to be explored and innovations to be seen.

A list of accomplished speakers will address the crowd on topics such as ‘Harnessing the Power of the Information Age’ and ‘Water Allocation – Options to Maximise Resource Use Efficiency’.

There will be a trade expo so attendees can see the best equipment on the market and there will be forum on topical issues.

Irrigation accelerated

Legislative changes

Helping farmers achieve the community’s strong demand for clean water is the Irrigation Acceleration Fund. This funding came from 2011’s post-earthquake “zero budget”, making it one of the few projects outside of health and education that received money.

In November, ECan will be implementing compulsory water metering. While Curtis says this will be a challenge logistically – as only 50 percent of water meters are currently on – but Irrigation NZ Inc is working closely with the regulator around making that happen.

The Irrigation Acceleration Fund provides $35 million over five years to support the development of proposals to the ‘investment ready’ prospectus stage. NZIER research suggests the fund could support 340,000ha of new irrigation, which could boost exports by $1.4 billion a year by 2018, rising to $4 billion a year by 2026.

It’s not just the irrigators who will be assessed this year, but the people and tools that measure the water quality. An accreditation programme called ‘Blue Chip’ assures farmers water measuring devices are of a high quality.

The fund will support regional scale rural water infrastructure proposals that address regional rural water infrastructure, community irrigation schemes and strategic water management studies.

The ‘Innovation in Irrigation’ award will be given, for the second time ever. Sponsored by Aqualinc, the award carries a cash first prize of $2500, as well as publicity, recognition and kudos, not only for the award winner but also those entrants selected as finalists.

The award recognises more than equipment or government funding, innovation is the true key to unlocking New Zealand’s primary sector potential.

David Goodman DDI: (03) 353 0721 Mob: 021 221 0721 E: david.goodman@gtrlaw.co.nz

Andrew Leete Direct Dial: (03) 963 7718 Mobile: 021 221 7718 Email: andrew.leete@gtrlaw.co.nz

www.gtrlaw.co.nz

Goodman Tavendale Reid is the leading legal specialist service provider to the Canterbury Irrigation sector and are proud supporters of the 2012 INZ conference.

15B Leslie Hills Drive, Riccarton, Christchurch. T 03 374 9999 F 03 374 6888 E info@gtrlaw.co.nz

70 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

The Government will contribute up to 50 percent through the fund to successful proposals. Applications will be assessed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), with input from a panel of independent experts. The final decision will be made by the director general of MAF. “This is a very welcome bit of money from government,” Curtis says.

“There are three things farmers must do to get funding for a scheme – the scheme must be socially acceptable, environmentally acceptable and economically viable. This funding will help push things forward.

“Because it is collaborative, it brings in outside stakeholders and gets these schemes to where we need to get to. At the early stages, these schemes are the hard ones to fund but there’s so much community benefit out of good irrigation it does make sense for the Government to invest in it.”

“This is paramount as we need high quality data coming in to feed into modelling processes. This is being put together to help farmers have assurance people doing these services are up to it. It’s a growing space,” Curtis says.

As the rebuild of Canterbury gets underway, it’s important to remember how large a part the primary sector plays in the urban economy.

“This is what is rebuilding Christchurch,” Curtis says.

“I think the urban community realises if we want to rebuild, if we want art centres and swimming centres and stadiums, you’ve got to have money coming from somewhere, and that knowledge has led to increased support for good irrigation.”

Irrigation New Zealand Inc 6 Sonter Road Wigram Christchurch T (03) 341 2225 F (03) 341 2205 E admin@irrigationnz.co.nz www.irrigationnz.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Manufacturers of: • Briggs Irrigators Suppliers of: • Zimmatic Centre Pivots • Zimmatic Laterals • Angus Layflat Hose • PVC Pipe • Stock Water Systems • Effluent Irrigator & Systems • Pumps • K Line Systems 10 Robinson Street, Ashburton Ph 03 307 9049 | Fax 03 307 9047 | www.rainer.co.nz

Irrigation Specialists

Agribusiness | Irrigation NZ

Smart system revs up farm efficiency Mid Canterbury farmer Eric Watson says, “You wouldn’t run your car without measuring how much petrol you have and how fast you are going.”

Chances are you would end up with a long walk on your hands, or a hefty speeding fine in your pocket.

there are energy saving benefits to consider too – now we only pump when we know we need to.

Eric and his wife Maxine can’t understand why “The information we are provided with also ensures we stay within our consent conditions anyone would try to run their farm without - there is no excuse for burying your head in gathering all the relevant information. the sand and exceeding water takes or pump “For us, knowing how much water we rates. are using is essential, because we have a “The information is also useful when we go to limited resource so every drop counts. This renew a consent or apply for more water – we concentrated our thoughts towards how know exactly what we use and how we use we could maximise the efficiency of water it,” he says. delivery so as not to compromise crops.

Prior to installing the measuring system the “The knowledge we gather from our telemetered water measuring system makes a farm was found to be pumping too much huge difference to how we manage the farm. water – mainly due to the fact their pumps were over-specified and pumping more than “It means we know when a pump isn’t they were designed to. running efficiently and we can take measures Eric Watson says this risk has been removed to remedy this. It also means if we are under due to the installation of telemetered water our pump limit we can put another irrigator measuring systems. on it to maximise the use of the resource,” he says.

During the past few years Eric and Maxine Eric and Maxine have been farming in Ashburton district since 1993. Eric’s family first farmed in the area in 1899 on a sheep and dryland crop farm. In 1992 Eric and Maxine moved to their Wakanui 490ha mixed cropping farm which produces seeds, wheat, rye and other crops, which are sent to local and international markets including Europe and Asia.

The farm is 98 percent irrigated by nine lateral irrigators which draw their water from three wells. The wells range from 40 to 90m deep and draw water at a rate of between 40 and 1000 litres per second.

In 2005 water measuring devices were installed on each of the wells and on two of the irrigators to meet consent-renewal requirements. Last year devices were added to two irrigators to gather data on the efficiency of our variable rate system.

More recently, Eric and Maxine upgraded the devices to provide real-time telemetered information. “Our first measuring systems were installed as part of our consent requirements but since then we have upgraded our measuring capabilities.

“The up-to-the-minute information we now get is vital to how we manage our farm and it also saves us a lot of time, cost and energy driving from pump station to pump station to record readings and adjust the pumps. And

have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to improve the irrigation systems to maximise their efficiency. The irrigation system deployed on the Wakanui farm now includes GPS receivers, computers with digital maps to control the speed of theirrigator and the nodes.

From the office, application rates can be set for each paddock and crop, which enables sprinklers to turn off automatically to avoid overlap areas.

Eric says despite his short-comings when it comes to understanding most technologies, the water measuring information is very easy to understand and manage.

“Our irrigation system is now state-of-theart and our measuring devices are a vital component. I haven’t had any problems when it comes to accessing, understanding and interpreting the information gathered by our water measuring systems.

“The information is instant and most importantly, it is useful. In hindsight, we would definitely install a system whether it was a resource requirement or not – the longterm benefits definitely outweigh the initial capital outlay,” he says.

This advertorial was supplied by Environment Canterbury. For more information visit www.ecan.govt.nz

“

For us, knowing how much water we are using is essential, because we have a limited resource so every drop counts.

This concentrated our thoughts towards how we could maximise the efficiency of water delivery so as not to compromise crops.

- Canterbury farmer Eric Watson

”

ECan Ellesmere Centre, 24 Edward Street, Lincoln PO Box 345 Christchurch 8140 T (03) 353-9007 E ecinfo@ecan.govt.nz www.ecan.govt.nz — Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 71

Irrigation scheme funding

Water management is an issue for all of New Zealand, so much so that in May 2011, the Government announced a water strategy to address a number of issues related to water supply and use.

From a farmer’s perspective, one of the most important aspects of the strategy focuses on developing irrigation schemes to ‘unlock economic growth and prosperity in our primary sector’.

Irrigation schemes are a costly exercise and the Government has set aside $35 million over five years for qualifying groups to get irrigation scheme proposals to an investment-ready stage. MAF, along with industry experts, has developed a set of best-practice guidelines, to assist schemes with their application. ANZ was invited by MAF to assist in the development of these guidelines.

Currently 620,000 hectares are irrigated throughout New Zealand, approximately four percent of arable land. Around 40 percent of the current irrigation water is extracted relatively easily from groundwater sources that’s naturally stored in aquifers.

The proposed irrigation schemes will be drawing on more complex water resources, requiring harvesting and involving storage and distribution networks that are larger and more costly than local scheme developments.

Farmers are the key beneficiaries of irrigation schemes which is why the Government wants funding to come from the private sector. So from a funding perspective, the challenge is sourcing the vast sums of cash needed to get both the off-farm and on-farm infrastructure built in a timely and cost effective manner that will enable farmers to reap the financial benefits that increased irrigation can provide.

With the wide-spread changes these schemes are likely to bring, many farmers need to start to consider lack of water as a risk that needs to be mitigated on a yearround basis, not just seasonally.

This is a complex issue and one that each farmer needs to assess based on their own particular land, region and type of farming.

However, in general, the following are the issues to address: 72 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

What are the schemes in my area?

Each of the 14 proposed major schemes have estimated the construction cost and the average cost per hectare. How these costs will be paid will depend on the funding option that is adopted by that scheme but it is fair to assume that all schemes will include some sort of ‘user-pay’ option that will result in a cost to participating farmers.

What are the benefits of joining a scheme?

Research from around the world, including New Zealand, shows that irrigation provides farmers not only with increased productivity on their existing farms but also provides options for conversion to more profitable forms of farming.

Furthermore, farmers need to consider the value to their farm of irrigating, particularly if they have a view to change of ownership in the foreseeable future.

As the broader water strategy becomes embedded, participation in an irrigation scheme could significantly affect farm values.

For a farmer, the choice of whether to irrigate will come down to whether the expected returns will cover the investment. In making this decision, farmers need to consider all of the options, not just the financial cost of irrigation, but also the possible cost of not irrigating. This is particularly important if their existing water source is likely to change as a result of broader water changes and the introduction of a water scheme in their region.

Bank support Through our ANZ National Bank Agri team, farmers have access to hands on practical knowledge to help evaluate alternative farm systems with water available. Our local team has developed years of experience through support of farmers in established scheme areas to optimise land use and production. We bring this knowledge to new irrigation areas to help build farmer confidence and to help with the decisions ahead.

Is our thirst a threat to Canterbury's prosperity?

The Crusader's incredible performance in 2011 was due to two factors: they acknowledged and accepted the devastation caused by the earthquakes, but at the same time kept focussing on the fundamentals of what makes a successful rugby team.

As a region we need to do the same, accept and focus on dealing with the rebuild as a key to our future economic prosperity, but not lose sight of the other fundamental contributors to being able to earn our keep in the national and global economy.

One of the most pressing of those 'other' factors is water. More than any other place in New Zealand, we must get smarter about managing our water resource.

Why DataCol? Well, if you are not involved in the utilities sector, you may not have heard of us. For the last 11 years, DataCol have been providing nationwide meter data collections services to all the major utility providers in New Zealand. We have over 200 staff and contractors working around the country. The company specialises in data collection and data management.

DataCol have leveraged their accumulated knowledge and experience to provide the solution for water compliance monitoring. We supply a data logger complete with telemetry and developed the www.managemywater.co.nz website which displays collected 15min consumption data in real time. This is monitored in real time against consent conditions to ensure water compliance.

Water as a key issue With the increased returns for primary commodities, farmers over the last twenty years, (especially with accelerated dairy growth in the last five years), have been cultivating the land, turning effort and inputs into commodity items sought after in our export markets. An essential ingredient for farmers in the dry Canterbury Plains is water. Not only are farmers requiring water, but Canterbury also supplies water for the majority of NZ's hydro-electric power generation.

Simply put, freshwater management (both ground and surface water) is the single most significant issue facing the Canterbury Region today after the earthquake rebuild.

So what does this mean for you?

We need to be smarter in using water, or we will be subject to government action. With many stakeholders sharing the water resources in Canterbury, we must ensure there is enough water for everyone to enjoy. At the same time, we also should realise that water use has huge implications for productivity of our farming hinterland, which helps drive the Canterbury economy. Therefore we have to strike a balance between the two sides.

The Government has created legislation which comes into force New th Zealand wide on the 10 November, 2012. In less than seven months, any consented water user that extracts 20 litres of water a second or more must be able to log that usage. This means a meter, data logger and in most cases telemetry to display the data on a website.

Rather than view the regulations as a nuisance, DataCol believe that there is considerable advantage for consent holders to embrace the change and develop smart system and processes around water and electricity consumption. Anecdotally, farmers have indicated that through the use of a soil moisture sensor and water consumption information, intelligent decisions can be made around when to irrigate which also saves electricity usages.

What is the solution?

Using the DataCol solution, farmers are able to, at a glance, view the key measures compared with their consent conditions in real time.

Farm Dairy Effluent Along with monitoring water consumption and supplying the consent compliance tools, DataCol also use the equipment to monitor Farm Dairy Effluent. This means that the equipment purchased for water monitoring can also be used for effluent monitoring with only modest additional costs.

Rather than purchase an entire new solution, in most cases, DataCol can attach sensors to the Collect box and commence reporting on pond levels, soil moisture levels and soil temperatures. These are becoming essential to monitor as there is greater awareness in the community around effluent runoff into waterways.

What we are offering farmers choosing the DataCol Collect Solution, is peace of mind compliance, as well as the added value of tools to enhance farm profitability. Do more with less effort and lower costs.

Summary Together, lets change the mind set from regulatory compliance to embracing technology and extend our reputation as New Zealand's and the world's smartest farmers. And do our best to back up the Canterbury rebuild.

10 Nov 2012

To assist consent holders in making the right decision, DataCol have developed the hardware and software solution to solve your water compliance needs.

DataCol - here to solve your compliance problems

www.managemywater.co.nz

0800 638-372

LEADING RESEARCH, LEADING CHANGE Aqualinc is New Zealand’s ground-breaking water management consultancy.

We provide visionary water management for our nation’s treasured aquifers, streams and rivers through research and consultancy services focussed on

strategic water management / water storage irrigation / groundwater / nutrient management Services we provide include...

New Zealand’s economic growth relies on a steady supply of high quality groundwater. Our team is one of New Zealand’s most experienced providers of specialist services in groundwater management, development and quality protection.

Aqualinc is a completely independent provider of irrigation design, design audit, tender management and irrigation evaluation services, as we do not supply irrigation hardware. Our independent research and experience is the basis of the Irrigation Design Code of Practice.

Whether it be a consent for a small take of groundwater, for a large take of surface water, for the nutrient management of a proposed farming operation or even a consent regarding the landbased treatment of effluent, Aqualinc has assisted clients with over 1,000 consent applications and can handle them all.

All types of land use have the potential to affect groundwater quality. With our extensive research base and clear understanding of groundwater characteristics, our team can help you manage your land use to minimise your impact on our treasured waterways.

From carrying out thorough investigations of proposed sites, monitoring nutrient balances and testing groundwater quality, the Aqualinc team has the knowledge and expertise to design the most effective land-based effluent treatment system for your land.

Groundwater systems and catchments have a wide range of stakeholders—meaning changes made to benefit one water user may often have a negative impact on another. At Aqualinc we use sophisticated technology to help our clients predict the impacts of proposed changes so they can manage water in their region more effectively.

If you need help or advice in any of these areas, please call

Aqualinc Research Ltd / Christchurch 03 964 6521 / Ashburton 03 307 6680 / Hamilton 07 858 4851

www.aqualinc.com

Transport & Motoring | Pauls Audio

How keeping track can aid productivity When employers start putting GPS tracking devices into company vehicles many staff begin to get suspicious that their bosses are spying on them.

“Most people think companies put GPS in their vehicles so they can track their workers during the day, but really they are there to improve productivity, as the person back at base can check who is nearest to the job,’ Chris says. “It can save a company thousands of dollars in lost productivity by improving efficiency.”

But that’s not the case according to Chris Vautier and Dale Nimmo of Pauls Audio on Fitzgerald Avenue in Christchurch, and they should know, having installed thousands of GPS tracking devices in cars, vans, trucks, boats and even road sweepers and graders during the years.

“We have attached GPS monitors to road sweepers and graders so when the sweeper brush or grader is engaged, they are able to accurately monitor the charging costs and the customer knows exactly what they are paying for.”

Dale adds that it can also help companies to ensure they are being charged correctly when it comes to contractors.

GPS systems also help improve a company’s fleet management system by enabling it to log how many hours a vehicle has been used, which is important information for servicing and safety.

By combining an alarm system with a GPS tracking device, a vehicle owner can be alerted by text the moment their car is stolen and the stolen vehicle can then be tracked and the information passed on to police.

Pauls Audio is NZSA approved so all their alarm installations are done to the highest standard and Chris and Dale know how to select the right system for a customer’s needs.

“The police seem to react quickly to this information as they know there is a high chance they will be able to catch the thieves,” he says.

Car alarms and GPS tracking devices are not all Pauls Audio does with a wide selection of car audio systems available, from the “mild to the wild” as Chris puts it.

“You can be in Auckland and your car in Christchurch and you will know when it has been stolen or broken into. A lot more trades people are getting alarm systems as thieves like to target vans with tools and other equipment in the back.

“We can do everything, from the basic radio to a high-end stereo system. Many people these days just go for a basic radio unit which they can plug their iPod or similar device into.”

“AVS provide sensors that can detect any movement in the back of a vehicle as well as glass breaking or doors being opened. Digital ‘tow-away’ sensors are also popular.”

Pauls Audio offers a full custom installation service for a vehicle for sound, alarm and GPS systems as well as hands-free cellphone kits and backing cameras.

Pauls Audio, which has been around the Christchurch landscape for over 30 years, are the contracted installers for GPS Tracking 4U systems. Dale and Chris, who combined have more than 35 years experience in the business, are proud to be associated with a Christchurch company like GPS Tracking 4U. “Other companies are buying their GPS systems and car alarms in from overseas; we are committed to sourcing these systems from within New Zealand whenever possible,” Chris says. “And we have seen a lot of growth over the last few years of GPS tracking systems in cars.”

By marrying the GPS technology with a quality security system Pauls Audio can provide vehicle owners with a genuine Kiwi crime buster. “AVS (Auto Vehicle Security) provides some of the best security systems in the country and we are proud to be to be an AVS preferred installer,” Dale says.

PAULS AUDIO OFFER TO CANTERBURY TODAY READERS Buy an audio system for your vehicle from Pauls Audio, be it mild or wild, and mention you read their article in Canterbury Today and your will receive your install free.

Offer does not include any additional parts required for the installation.

Pauls Audio 30 Fitzgerald Avenue Christchurch T (03) 372 1578 E info@paulsaudio.co.nz www.paulsaudio.co.nz — Advertising Feature

We are proud to be associated with the team at Pauls Audio as their accounting and business advisors…

We are specialists in… ··· Business Consulting ··· Business Advisory Services ··· Taxation Planning ··· Risk Management ··· Succession Planning

For enquiries please contact: Graeme, Paul, Andrew, Richard or Belinda chch@markhams.co.nz Ph: 379 6710 Fax: 379 6754 PO Box 13 104 Christchurch 8141

www.markhams.co.nz 76 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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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.

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.

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

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.

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

Transport & Motoring | Wheeler Motor Company

Keeping Cantabrians on the move

” For three generations the Wheeler family has been supplying the vehicle needs of Christchurch motorists. While the way business has been done those 70 odd years has changed, the thing that hasn’t changed is Wheeler Motor Company’s commitment to quality vehicles and customer service.

When Gordon Wheeler started the company in the 1940s he was one of the original importers of motor vehicles into New Zealand.

Back then the sourcing of quality cars was a timely business, involving a boat trip to the United Kingdom to view what was available to satisfy the needs of Gordon’s customers.

Photos by Paul Terry

When Gordon’s son Murray took up the business, as the Christchurch Sports Car Centre, the importing of cars from Japan had just begun and he was one of the first to jump on a plane to the land of the rising sun.

However, the process was often fraught with danger as Murray would take a bag of cash with him to buy the vehicles, receive a receipt and then hope the vehicles would arrive.

By the time Murray’s son Nick entered the family business, trading as the Wheeler Motor Company at 171 Moorhouse Avenue, the process had become a lot simpler and safer both for the car dealer and the customer, and he doesn’t have to carry a bag of cash with him!

While the new technology has helped, Nick Wheeler says after flying to Japan regularly he has been able to build up a great rapport and trust with his agents.

“You can never really tell what you are getting when buying over the internet. I believe to ensure you are getting a quality vehicle either I or one or my Japan-based staff has to actually be able to see and touch the vehicle,” Nick says.

www.agnewbros.co.nz Seat Repairs, Soft/Vinyl Tops, Squabs, Gym Gear, Headlinings, Door Panels, Utility Canopies & Lids, Tonnque Covers, Camper Vans/Holiday Homes, Boat Covers, Leather Interiors, GPS/Bluetooth and much more!!

If our customers arent happy, neither are we!

Ph/Fax (03) 379 2401 | 91 Montreal Street, Sydenham, Christchurch

Customs Brokers, Freight Forwarders & Import Management Consultants •Specialising 100% in Motor Vehicles • Customs Clearance • Packing/Stuffing • Documentation • Foreign Exchange • Vehicle Transport • Shipping Door to Door • Ex Japan, UK, USA, Australia “McCullough Limited would like to thank Wheeler Motor Company for their support over the years” 79c St Georges Bay Road, Parnell, Auckland, Ph: 09 303 0075 | Fax: 09 303 0072 E: info@mmnz.biz | www.mmnz.biz

78 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Central City Tyres/Tyre City Good guys, great deals Pleased to be associated with the Wheeler Motor Company

GIVE US A CALL

03 379 4367 OR 027 548 3132

Now operating alongside tyre City Entrance 361 Lincoln Rd or 26 Moorehouse Ave

BARKERS PANELBEATING & CAR PAINTING • All work guaranteed • We do all insurance & private work • Low bake oven • Free pick-up & delivery in Chch • Structured rust repairs to WOF standard • Prompt attention • Chassis straightening • Car-o-liner chassis machine • 3d Car-o-liner measuring System

Proud to be associated with

Wheeler Motor Company 97 Wrights Rd | Ph/Fax: 03 338 5508 E: nbarker@paradise.net.nz

Transport & Motoring | Wheeler Motor Company

“

Wheeler Motor Company is your one stop shop when it comes to both new and used vehicles. With all the services that we always have on offer, we are confident any inquiry can be accommodated.

Customer service • Free pre-sale service • Free band expander • Free finance quotes • Free on-road costs.

”

Nick Wheeler

Customer support • Full finance facility • Trade-ins welcome • Fully equipped service centre • Excellent after sales service • Complimentary courtesy cars.

“Also there are now a lot more safety and quality checks done before a car even arrives in New Zealand from Japan. Cars are rechecked after we buy them in Japan and they are also surveyed by both MAF and customs before they leave for New Zealand.

“When they get here all our cars go through a 200-point VINZ check and we then service and re-check the vehicles in our mechanical workshop, Complete Automotive at 154 Carlyle Street.

“With unlimited access to an excellent team of mechanics and auto electrician at Complete Automotive, our customers know they can have instant advice and help with all their motoring needs at any time. With loan cars available on request you will not be inconvenienced in anyway.”

The company specializes in providing quality family style vehicles in a price range from $10,000 to $20,000, with mileage between, 20,000km and 120,000km.

“Our cars appeal to families who are looking for a top quality first or second car, with both European and Japanese models available.

Our aim is to provide exceptional buying experience by offering the best advice with the objective of having a very satisfied and well informed customer that would be happy to buy from us again.”

The sales process is also simplified with finance packages available on site at Wheeler Motor Company’s modern premises at 171 Moorhouse Ave through it’s own finance company ‘Discount Finance’, which specialises in motor vehicle, marine, motorcycle and campervan financing, from $1000 to $100,000. More information on the finance company can be found at www.discountfinance.co.nz.

Nick Wheeler says what he wants to provide his buyers with is a solid experience in buying a motor vehicle, something many Christchurch residents are looking for in these shaky times.

The Wheeler Motor Company 171 Moorhouse Avenue Christchurch T (03) 3666 369 E nick@wheelermotors.co.nz www.wheelermotors.co.nz

“Wheeler Motor Company is your one stop shop when it comes to both new and used vehicles. With all the services that we always have on offer, we are confident any inquiry can be accommodated.

“With over 100 vehicles in stock and 50 new vehicles arriving monthly, we have one of Canterbury’s largest selections available.”

And it is not just Canterbury residents who are benefitting from the Wheeler family’s three generations of knowledge of the motor industry, with the Wheeler Motor Company providing free delivery to buyers anywhere in New Zealand.

— Advertising Feature

RICCARTON Auto Electric Centre Ltd Pleased to be associated with the

Wheeler Motor Company

panel and paint ltd

All aspects of Automotive Repair and Refinishing Private | Commercial | Insurance work completed Hi Tec Back Oven | Free Courtesy Cars Member of the New Zealand Collision Repair Association

Open Mon - Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm

Our business law team are pleased to be legal advisers to Wheeler Motor Company Partner - Clare O’Neill

Phone: 03 379 9940 | E: cavell@cavell.co.nz Ground Floor, 6 Hazeldean Road, Addington, Christchurch

Starter Motors | Alterations | Ignition Fuel Injection | Central Locking Electric Windows | Car Security Systems Machinery | Forklifts Jet Boats Trailers & Caravans.

5 Leslie Hills Drive, Riccarton | P.O. Box 8381 Phone: (03) 348-7736 | Fax: (03) 348-7178

Proud to be associated with the Wheeler Motor Company Straighten Up Panel and Paint Ltd 74 Parkhouse Rd, Sockburn, Christchurch p 03 348 6311 f 03 348 6312 e straightenup@xtra.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 79

Transport & Motoring | Lowes Industries

Top tank makers

ensure they move with the times

Lowes Industries Limited in Christchurch can provide a turn key solution to its heavy transport customers, designing and building tankers, trailers, semitrailers and B-trains for dangerous goods or general bulk liquid haulage.

The company is a long-established transport and general engineering business that supplies New Zealand’s transport industry with high-quality trucks and tankers. But its main business is building tankers, which are used primarily to transport dangerous goods such as petroleum, bitumen, LPG and cement.

Lowes Industries can build:

However, the company can build tankers to suit the requirements of any industry and is gaining an increasing amount of business from the dairy and chemical sectors.

• Truck tankers

Tankers are available in any axle configuration, with tank sizes to suit the customer’s requirement. Lowes has built tankers ranging from small 1000ltr mini tankers right up to a 50,000 litre B-train.

• B trains

The company’s specialty is its ability to provide a total package to meet the requirements of the oil industry. Lowes tankers have been continuously developed and rigorously refined over the years, resulting in a range of robust superior products.

• Quad semi LPG tankers

• Four-axle dog trailers • Tri-axle Jet or Avgas semis • Quad semi fuel tankers • Quad semi bitumen tankers • Quad semi dry powder cement tankers

Quality dosn’t cost, it pays.

• LPG bobtails • Stainless steel tankers • Chemical tankers • Wool claws

SCOTTS ENGINEERING CO LTD

So call the experts today!

510 Cranford Street, Christchurch Phone 03-352 9015 Fax 03-352 9012 Email: scottacc@ihug.co.nz

P. 03-323-8582 F. 03-323-7352 hwhendriks@xtra.co.nz www.hendriksblasting.com 80 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

BOILER & PRESSURE VESSEL MANUFACTURERS GENERAL ENGINEERS Pleased to be associated with Lowes Industries Ltd

Transport & Motoring | Lowes Industries

New semi trailers and B-trains John and Sue Metcalf have owned Lowes Industries for five years and during that time have grown the business significantly. The company employs two design engineers, including their son Stuart, a graduate of Canterbury University.

“Before we bought Lowes Industries, the company limited their product range in terms of the vehicles it built,” John Metcalf says.

“The previous owner built farm trade tankers and four-axle dog trailers. We’ve expanded Lowes’ products range vertically, to include three and four-axle semi-trailers and B-trains, as well as horizontally across different markets to include dairy and bulk wcement tankers.

“We’ve broadened the scope of the business and it’s a lot more technical now. Semi-trailers require a much higher level of engineering and design than the company’s previous trailer configurations. To facilitate this move, we’ve made a big investment in design and our design capabilities have grown as a result.”

To improve its manufacturing processes, Lowes Industries has recently developed and built some new in-house equipment, including a “rotisserie”, which rotates the tank for welding purposes, making welding much easier and quicker.

While Lowes Industries is primarily a transport engineering company, the business also undertakes general engineering and is a specialist in aluminium, stainless steel, mild steel and carbon steel fabrication.

Lowes knows tankers Lowes Industries’ engineering workshops contain: • 400T x 4m brake press • 3M x 6mm plate rollers • 6mm x 3m guillotine

The team at Lowes has been steadily perfecting its road tanker designs for 38 years and has done this by listening to its customers in order to determine the best way of building tankers, as well as what works for the operator and what doesn’t.

• 50T hydraulic press • 450 x 2m lathe • Milling machine • 450A Fronius MIG water-cooled welding machines • 400A Fronius TIG welding machines • Various MIG and TIG welding machines • Band saw • Cut-off saw • Degassing blower and test equipment • 5T, 3T, 2T and 1T hoists.

Lowes Industries has spent near on four decades listening to the people who drive its trucks ensuring the company has a clear understanding of what works and what doesn’t.

The company’s design engineers strive to create the right balance between strength and weight, making sure the layout is designed around the driver in order to make his job easier.

Managing director John Metcalf says that feedback from drivers all over the country indicates that given the choice, they prefer to drive a Lowes Industries tanker.

“Over the years we’ve been maintaining tanks of all makes and models. Typically our competitors don’t do that - they focus on manufacturing,” he says.

“We believe this has given us a real competitive advantage because we can see what works and what doesn’t. We get great feedback from the drivers who say they will always choose a Lowes tanker because they’re better laid out, have a higher standard of finish and are built to last.”

Leading the industry The innovation within Lowes Industries has put the Christchurch company at the front of the dangerous goods transport industry for many years.

Lowes Industries was the first tanker builder in New Zealand to build a four-axle tanker trailer, and was also the first to build a tankertrailer with an all-aluminium chassis. It is the only tanker builder in NZ to have successfully designed and built a fully aluminium bulk cement tanker.

Lowes also introduced New Zealand-made LPG tankers to the market more than 25 years ago.

Its design and construction of bulk bitumen tankers has been particularly successful, while the company has also established a reputation as a builder of specialist forklift attachments.

Dress your business When you dress your business with Apparelmaster, we take care of everything!

Overalls • Uniforms • Mats Drycleaning • Towels Washroom Services • Laundry

Phone 0800 808 820 www.apparelmaster.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 81

“

The new quad-axle semi-trailer bitumen tanker built by Lowes Industries for Ferguson Brothers Limited.

Ferguson Brothers needed a long-haul tanker capable of transporting hot cut back bitumen from Timaru to Greymouth.

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Transport & Motoring | Lowes Industries

Custom designs Lowes Industries recently built a new quadaxle semi-trailer bitumen tanker for Ferguson Brothers Limited.

Lowes Industries had previously built bitumen tanks for Ferguson Brothers and had developed a strong working relationship with the Greymouth company.

The tough working environment on the West Coast meant Ferguson Brothers needed a long-haul tanker capable of transporting hot cut back bitumen from Timaru to Greymouth.

The tank had to be able to retain the product temperature overnight without additional heating to within 15 deg of specification. In practice, an overnight product temperature drop of only 10 deg is being achieved.

Ferguson Brothers specified a diesel burner system capable of operating without attendance. For this demanding application, Lowes recommended a double burner configuration using Weishaupt burners running on diesel, drawn from an under-slung tank with an on-board generator set.

Ferguson Brothers reports the burner system more than met expectations, both in terms of low noise levels and low fuel consumption.

Another satisfied customer of Lowes Industries is BP Oil, New Zealand. Lowes has worked closely with BP Oil on the design, manufacture and repair of dangerous goods tankwagons, for its fleet for the past 15 years.

Lowes acts as a true one-stop shop for its customers, offering scheduled and preventative maintenance programmes, and expert servicing of specialist equipment to the oil and gas industry. The company has a well-equipped workshop carrying more than $150,000 worth of specialist parts.

Ken Russell, BP Oil New Zealand Limited

Lowes is now in the process of completing the manufacture of its first two B trains for two of its main customers.

One of the B trains was built to cart bitumen for Fulton Hogan, for whom Lowes have been building tankers for over 20 years. The other B-Train is a bulk fuel tanker built for Nelson Petroleum Ltd. Both are designed around high productivity permits and are sized to maximise the permissible load capacity within the HPMV constraints.

The Importance of reliability Lowes Industries chooses its suppliers carefully, only dealing with companies that have stood the test of time through their proven high-quality products.

In selecting its suppliers, Lowes Industries managing director John Metcalf says it’s all about longevity and going the distance.

“One of the big differences between our tanks and some of our competitor’s tanks, is that they are typically designed for a seven

Lowes Industries are professional in their service, innovative in their tanker designs and solutions and are committed to building tankwagons to the highest industry quality and finish.

or eight-year service life. A Lowes tank is designed for 15 to 20 years and regularly achieve 20 years plus,” he says.

“What we look for in a supplier is someone with a solid reputation - a strong company that will go the distance. We’re looking for a high-quality product that will meet the demands of a very rigorous industry. Farm trade tankers get a really good hammering travelling daily along rough shingle and farm roads and every component we fit, must be able to withstand that environment.”

Metcalf says one of the key points of difference with a Lowes tanker is the quality, strength and durability of the product.

“We focus very much on build quality,” he says.

“We have a reputation within the market in New Zealand of building the highest quality tankers. Our price reflects this of course, but we are a proven supplier and our customers know that they can rely on a Lowes tanker to go the distance and more than make up that little bit extra in the purchase price.”

“

-- Testimonials --

”

Ferguson Brothers Limited engaged Lowes Industries to design and construct a quad axle semi 30,000-litre bitumen tanker. Cutting edge design, exceptionally built, exceeding expectations.

Mackley Ferguson, Ferguson Brothers Limited

SPECIALIST AUTO ELECTRIC

”

COMMERCIAL SPECIALISTS www.specialistauto.co.nz phone: 03 348 0996 fax: 03 341 5891 39D SONTER RD SOCKBURN CHRISTCHURCH

Importers & Distributors • Component Supply System Design • Service Proud to be able to design & supply Hydraulic Systems for Lowes Industries.

38 Parkhouse Road | email: enquiries@hsac.co.nz | Ph: 03 348 1653 | Fax: 03 348 1675

PMC

PUMP&

MACHINERYCo Ltd • Blackmer Pumps • Liquid Controls Meters • Selectronic Registers

Ph: (04) 568 3029 sales.w@pumpmachinery.co.nz www.pumpmachinery.co.nz Proud suppliers of Pumps & Meters to Lowes Industries 82 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

108a Hayton Road, Sockburn, Christchurch | Ph (03) 343 2001

A large part of Lowes Industries’ service involves helping customers negotiate their way through the hefty regulations and requirements concerning the transport of dangerous goods.

Lowes managing director John Metcalf says there are extremely tight regulations surrounding the transport industry, particularly within the dangerous goods sector.

“These days operators have to manage within very tight margins and to do so successfully they need to understand these regulations very closely. This is an aspect of our business in which we believe we can assist our clients,” he says.

Metcalf says these changes in the regulations make it difficult for fleet operators and truck and trailer manufacturers, such as Lowes Industries, to stay abreast and invest in the appropriate vehicle combination.

“Part of my main role is making sure we keep on top of what these changes are and what they’re likely to be. We are a member of the New Zealand Truck-Trailer Manufacturer’s Federation. Through that membership we

Lowes Industries’ tankers are mainly used for transporting dangerous goods.

Lowes Industries’ main business is building tankers.

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The knowledge acquired through working in an industry

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Tankers are available in any axle configuration, with tank sizes to suit the customer’s requirement.

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Transport & Motoring | Lowes Industries

participate in and learn up front what’s happening in terms of potential changes to legislation. We participate actively in helping to shape that legislation wherever we can,” he says.

Metcalf helps Lowes Industries’ customers identify the best path through the regulations and legislation in achieving the best vehicle combinations.

“We do quite a lot of HPMV (high productivity motor vehicle) permits for our customers, which make it easier for them. We have a good understanding of how it works and can do the application for them on their behalf or assist them with it if they prefer,” he says.

“We will build the vehicle to make sure it complies with the permit requirements. It’s about keeping abreast with what the optimal configuration is on the road for that particular product and making sure we design a vehicle to fit that.”

Safety comes first Lowes Industries Ltd in Christchurch is helping to keep New Zealand roads safer with its tankers and semi-trailers, which exceed minimum safety requirements.

Managing director John Metcalf says vehicles built by the Christchurch company have a higher static roll threshold (SRT) than is legally required. SRT of a vehicle is a measure of the potential for a vehicle to roll over. The higher the SRT the better in terms of stability.

“When we commence a design we focus on achieving the highest SRT that we possibly can. We’ve consistently achieved higher SRT ratings than our competitors for similar vehicle configurations and this has been a big focus for us.”

The people behind the company

software company. Prior to this he practised as an engineer in Africa for over 30 years.

The Metcalfs purchased Lowes Industries five years ago.

The family-owned business employs John as managing director, Sue as the administration manager and their son Stuart as one of their design engineers.

The company doubled its business in its first year under the Metcalfs ownership, but was hit hard by the following economic recession and earthquakes.

Business has now turned the corner and Lowes Industries is continuing on its growth plan and is looking forward to a bright future, currently employing a total of 21 staff.

Lowes Industries is owned by John and Sue Metcalf, who immigrated from Southern Africa Lowes Industries Limited 59 Garlands Road 10 years ago.

Woolston John Metcalf is a professional engineer who Christchurch 8022 is registered with the engineering council of T (03) 982 2547 South Africa.

F (03) 982 2550 E tankers@lowes.co.nz.

In NZ John was previously CEO of DataCol www.lowes.co.nz NZ Limited, a successful meter reading and — Advertising Feature

The first priority for Lowes Industries when it is designing and building its tankers and trailers is safety.

You need it, we listen - then we design and deliver it.

For 36 years Lowes have gained an enviable reputation for building the best tankers available – a reputation we defend and work hard to maintain.

We specialise in Aluminium, Stainless Steel, Mild Steel and Carbon Steel

Proud to supply Hose and Fittings to Lowes Industries Ltd Call us today - we’ll engineer a solution for you!

Tel: (03) 982-2547 | Fax: (03) 982-2550 E: tankers@lowes.co.nz | www.lowes.co.nz 59 Garlands Road, P.O. Box 19-585, Woolston, Christchurch

Christchurch Telephone: 03 358 8309 Freephone: 0800 659 888 | www.homershams.co.nz

Homersham Ltd are proud to supply Lowes Industries Ltd www.canterburytoday.co.nz April/May 2012 | 83

Do you have a fussy dog?

All theNatural Goodness your pet deserves

in the palm of your hand Add to Dry Food for a Wholesome Meal Experience!

Imagine having dry, meat-flavoured cookies for dinner every day. While our pets may never have complained, it is only logical to think that having too much of the same thing ruins the joy a meal should bring.

FAQs 1.

Won’t feeding a Topper with normal food cause my pet to put on weight since he is eating more than his usual?

Canino Toppers help provide a more satisfying meal for your dog, and encourages your dog to finish up the kibble. Canino Toppers is an all-natural topper made only with fresh, wholesome ingredients. It provides nutrients in the best form available, with high digestibility. If you have been feeding your pet a dry diet exclusively, we encourage you to transition your pet by decreasing the amount of kibble slowly. Canino Toppers should make up an approximate 10% of the entire meal.

2.

If I’m feeding lamb and rice kibble, can I still mix it with Beef and Potato topper?

Canino Toppers is all about providing a healthy variety to nutrition.

Containing only fresh, whole ingredients of the best quality, our products strive to turn each mealtime into an event worth looking forward to. With bite-sized morsels of human grade real meat and vegetables, Canino Toppers can be mixed into your dog’s kibbles for a different texture and taste whenever you think your furry best friend deserves a better meal.

Believing that the best way to ensure our dogs gets the best nutrients is from consuming an assortment of proteins, Canino Toppers can be fed by rotating between the meat, poultry and fish varieties. This means your dogs receive everything they need for a pleasurable and healthy meal experience.

I cook my dog’s meals myself at home, why should I still feed Canino Toppers?

We think it’s really wonderful that you are able to be your dog’s veryown chef, but unfortunately, not every one can afford the time. What’s great about Canino Toppers is that we use the same natural and fresh ingredients, cooked perfectly, and served straight from the can. It is hassle-free, and can provide an extra source of protein on top of the original diet. It is convenient, economical, and adds variety to life!

There can never be too much of a good thing; treat your best friend to a hearty serving of prized Mackerel and Lobster. Turn that boring meal into a fancy occasion with DEEP SEA TREASURES, because every day should be a special day.

The connoisseurs love Canino’s freshly caught Tuna from the ocean, which is why they prefer eating it on its own. Simmered in simple gravy, BIG COAST TUNA is a wonderful addition to an everyday meal.

It’s difficult not to love a healthy and tasty meal of Tuna and Chicken, especially when they are freshly farmed and quaranteed of good quality. FISH AND FOWL is low-fat and nutritious perfect as a daily topper for your dog’s dry diet.

Give your dog something to howl about - a deeply satisfying TUNA AND BEEF JUMBO. The firmness of the choice cuts add extra bite to a simple dish. Mixed with kibble, this topper is a hot favorite.

should I switch to using a 4. Why topper instead of feeding an occasional canned food?

Unless your dog is allergic to a certain type of protein, Canino Toppers complement all dry diets. Providing your dog with different types of proteins in a single meal ensures that your dog receives nutrients in different forms, which is a good thing. Apart from being extremely convenient, Canino Toppers are created to give you and your dog more variety in life so each mealtime is worth looking forward to.

3.

For the delicate palate, this all-vegetable topper is light and chock-full of vitamins. With the colourful salad steamed and then simmered in gravy, GARDEN FIESTA can be used on its own or served with your dog’s usual dry or wet diet.

Most canned foods are designed to be complete meals, with added vitamins and minerals. In our efforts to keep nutrition simple and natural, you’ll find that “what you see is what you get” with Canino Toppers, which means there are no by-products or unnecessary vitamins. Our raw ingredients come in fresh every day, with no preliminary processing.

That’s because we believe in feeding our pets the best, naturally.

5.

Puppies have different nutrient needs from the adults; can I feed them Canino?

Unlike complete meals, Canino Toppers act as a topping to make your dog’s meals more satisfying.

Imagine the usual dry diet as a plain pizza and Canino Toppers as your ‘pepperoni’. A good quality kibble will properly nourish your puppy for its life stage, while Canino Toppers provides the fresh proteins that will make your dog a happy healthy one.

Perfect for staving off that meat craving, HOMESTYLE GOULASH is deliciously flavourful. Quality cuts of Beef combined with bite-sized Sweet Potatoes ensure your dog has a growlingly good time at dinner.

Ditch the “Chicken or Beef” dilemma and have them both! Pair the versatile Chicken chunks with the robust taste of gently cooked Beef for a delightful combo.

ROOS AND MOOS always hits the spot.

Sometimes, a Shrimp cocktail just isn’t enough. Pile the succulent OCEAN ENSEMBLE on top of his usual dry food and watch your doggie smacks his lips with appreciation. Bon Appetite!

Nothing beats the wholesome taste of tender Chicken, accompanied with soft-stewed Carrots and a thick, delicious gravy. CHICKEN STEW POT PIE is like a doggie cuddle on a cold day - heartwarming and comforting.

$39.95 + free delivery incl gst | Box of 24 Servings For more detailed information call on 0800 101 729 47b Birmingham Drive, Middleton, PO Box 1879, Christchurch. Fax 03 961 5112 - Email: info@canidae.co.nz - Web: www.canidae.co.nz

IF YOU’D SIGNED THIS PETITION 6 MONTHS AGO, I MIGHT STILL BE ALIVE. Christie Marceau, 18, died on 7th November 2011 in her mother’s arms.

The person charged with her murder was a 19 year old male.

We can only refer to him as ‘the accused’. The accused was granted interim aname suppression until 18th April 2012.

He was on bail at the time and was facing charges for kidnapping Christie just a couple of months before her death.

The judge gave the accused bail after what he had done, despite strong police opposition. It is said that the police showed the judge a Google map to illustrate he was placing the accused just 350m from Christie’s home.

Christie was terrified for her life.

It is alleged that when he turned up to Christie’s home early that morning, the accused brutally stabbed her. Christie bled to death in her mother’s arms.

The shock of Christie’s murder has resulted in an unprecedented public response and community action.

Since her death, Christie’s devastated parents, Tracey and Brian Marceau have been working with friends and the Sensible Sentencing Trust to launch the petition.

Christie’s Law petition was launched earlier this week on Monday, outside the High Court in Auckland. Over 1,000 people gathered to show their support.

Unfortunately, we can’t turn the clock back, but imagine if this petition had been around 6 months ago and we had got 500,000 signatures. The politicians and judges would have sat up and listened to the voice of the people.

Imagine if there was a public outcry because our bail laws have failed so many, like Augustine Borelle and Aalyagh Morrissey who was just a toddler. They too were murdered by violent offenders who were granted bail.

Let us not forget Vanessa Pickering.

The man who killed Vanessa was not long out of prison when he raped a woman only to be granted bail.

And now, there’s Christie.

Christie’s alleged killer has been charged with her murder, however Garth McVicar believes the judge’s decision placed the accused right back into our community and subsequently cost Christie her life. The judge has never been held responsible for his actions.

Our petition aims to change that and make judges accountable for their actions.

Judges are not above the law.

We believe New Zealanders have the right to be safe. The vulnerable have the right to be protected.

Did you know that 5,082 people were convicted for failing to answer Court bail orders in 2007? These are the latest figures supplied by the Minister of Justice after an Official Information Request. 1,313 of those people committed another crime while on bail. Christie is the latest victim.

If you believe something needs to be done about our failed bail laws, here is your chance, for Christie’s sake.

So what can you do to help?

MAKING CHANGES TO BAIL We are asking that police be given the power to appeal a judge’s decision to grant bail. This would automatically move the application to a higher court.

We want you to support making the following amendments to the Bail Act: • No bail for defendants with a criminal history for an offence involving violence, which attracts a sentence of two years or more linked to; • No bail for any person accused of an offence involving serious violence as defined in the three strikes legislation.

We also want you to support the reintroduction of meaningful bail bonds (not the current NO bond system that’s costing the tax payer over $300m per year): • NO bond, NO bail.

• An automatic and immediate inquiry after every serious bail breach, similar to a police inquiry after a police shooting.

• The views of the victims of any violent offence are given paramount consideration.

MAKING CHANGES TO JUDICIARY At present, judges are a law unto themselves.

There is no monitoring of them and they are not accountable for their decisions.

This petition calls for an annual, publicly available performance review of judges, with the right of public recall on those proven to be consistently below par or found guilty of exposing the public to undue risk.

5 ways to help Christie’s Law mean something 1. Sign the Christie’s Law Petition in the coupon.

2. Talk to your friends, business colleagues and talk to your children and family about Christie’s Law. 3. Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/christieslaw 4. Please visit the site and download the petition and ask your staff to sign it.

Lead the way by signing it yourself.

5. Donate to Christie’s Law (see box below).

Please donate $20 to Christie’s Law. Simply call 0900 72 33 69 and your $20 donation will be made automatically – Thank you for your support and effecting change.

HSE 2350 Christie FP Today Mags.indd 1

CHRISTIE’S LAW Petition Help us change the Bail Act

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY By signing this petition we call on the House of Representatives to enact the following: Name: 1. Immediately amend bail legislation Signature: to help prevent similar tragedies from ever occurring again and Address: ensure public safety is of paramount consideration at all times.

2. Instigate an annual performance Email: review of judges with the right of public recall for those who expose Name: the public to undue risk.

Make your signature count 1. Fill out all sections on the petition.

2. Photocopy petition or download it online at www.christieslaw.co.nz if you need more.

3. Free post completed petitions to

Dr. Jackie Blue Member of Parliament FREE POST Parliament Buildings WELLINGTON

Signature: Address:

Email: Name: Signature: Address:

Email:

This advertisement has been authorised by Garth McVicar of the Sensible Sentencing Trust.

P.O. Box 701 Napier 4140.

5/03/12 1:50 PM

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

been seen

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 A night of Fabulous Fashion ,champagne and dancing was held at the reopening of Deval in the new container shopping precinct in Merivale Lane.

1. Alan & Maz ,Craig & Maureen.

2. Chris Tillson, Debbe Lawson.

3. Emma Wilcock, Gina Piper, Alisha Draper 1

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4. Michelle Crouch, Nettles Lamont.

5. Claire & Simon.

6. Ayesha & Justin Thorley (Merivale Boutique).

7. Alex & Belinda Archibald.

8 Louise Eder, Jo James , Debbie Lawson ( Deval) , Natalie McLaughlin.

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A number of VIP’s enjoyed a night at Gin Wigmore and the Muttonbirds at the Mudhouse Winery with the best of wine and continuous food all evening.

9. Jane Andrews, Nettles Lamont, Linda Coleman 10. Gary Collins, Karen Carson (SunGard), Charles Kelly (ECL Group) 11. Peter & Jac Dickie 12. Rita Gatenby (Holly Lea Village), Tina Ellen (Birthday Princess)

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13. May Al Sayyad ,Chris Uren (Espresso Tools) 14 Chris & Kelly Morrison (Nood) 15. Duncan & Georgia McMeeking 16. Annette Besley , Peter McLelland (Landor Homes)

Ellerslie international Flower show featured more flowers, more colour and plenty of inspiration for Christchurch residents to get back into their rebuild.

17. Dave Pullen, Patrick Scott, Justin Wright (Vortex Spas) 18. Brendon & Lynne Wellington (Hometech Canterbury)

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19. Robbi Shearer, Michelle Sharpe (Kilmarnock Toys) 20. Hel Ramsay (Bruns.co.nz) 21. Emily Cook (Sensational Selwyn) 22. Jacques Lourens, Tim Andrews (Metro Glass Tech) 23. Marilyn Sayers (Telford)

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24. Barbara Meyer ,Murray Knowles, Luchana Lovridge.

Opening night at the new Court theatre with Anne Whittle and the Calendar Girls was such a fantastic success with invited guests of the Radio Network.

25. Andrew & Shellie Britt, Mr & Mrs Britt.

26. Steve Brooker (Court Theatre), Megan Mitchell (TRN) 27. John Lee (John Lee Ltd) , Bryan Doull,Darren Wilson (TRN) 28 Tracey and Glen Kyne (The Radio Network).

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29. Annie Whittle 30. Andrew Britt (TRN), Philip Aldridge (Ceo Court Theatre)

31. Di & Pip Sutton (Simes Real Estate) 32. Kelly,Georgie,Tori & Sarah (TRN)

86 | April/May 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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