Canterbury Today Magazine 128 by Academy Group

Issue 128 | September/October 2014

Wil McLellanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s epic ambitions How the EPIC Innovation Centre re-defines the start-up paradigm

Tick tock Get tech smart and save 60 minutes a day

All for one Getting people to buy into a good idea

What business wants from the elected Industry advocates deliver their Election 2014 wish list

Take a break Running your business on holiday while still having a holiday

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Issue 128 September/October 2014

In this issue... Viewpoints

Features

In Business

6 The PM’s Desk

13 The engine room of many small businesses

34 Property & Construction

With election day looming, John Key takes stock and looks ahead

6 Management Business consultant Kevin Vincent gives the good oil on time management

8 Politics David Shearer explains just how dumb smart meters really are Canterbury Today

Issue 128

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Martz Group boss Martz Witty on how unexpected and unplanned growth can suck the life out of you

Forty four local businesses have been announced as finalists for the Champion Canterbury Business Awards

10 Tactics

16 Bad writing – does it really matter?

17 Tough love

Business coach Dave Sewell explains how to streamline your cash conversion cycle

Employee engagement sometimes requires difficult conversations

11 Finance

20 What business wants from the elected

Martin Fraser-Allen’s mid-year market stock take

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12 Online Website specialist Suzanne Carter’s simple tips to improve your homepage

13 Events diary Find out what’s on near you

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Penny Homes, the Clean Sweep Awards, Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete, Takahe Construction, Element 17, A1 Homes and Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham

61 Focus Project Stainless, Watts & Hughes Construction, Adgraphix, Kidney Health New Zealand’s mission to increase awareness about our own health

68 Real Estate Iron Bridge Property Group and Mike Pero’s new Sockburn connection

72 Deconstruction

Industry advocates deliver their Election 2014 wish list

Dcon Demolition and Deconstruction

22 All for one

Ray Hawthorne Design’s building brilliance and the craftsmen behind Aridium Designs

Using crowdfunding to get people to buy into a good idea

28 Wil McLellan’s epic ambitions

76 Architecture

79 Decorating

How the EPIC Innovation Centre’s collaborative format revolutionises start-up standards

Clearwater Painting, Renovating and Decorating proves the popularity of girl power and T&R Interior Systems’ acoustically engineered spaces

30 Take a break

81 Furniture

How to ensure business doesn’t fall apart when you’re on holiday, but still have a holiday

Commercial furniture made to fit any space by Harrows Contract Furniture

31 Tick tock Smart and simple ways technology can give you 60 more minutes a day

How Signtalk and SB Signs are both delivering signs that stand out in today’s cluttered commercial space

32 Lifestyles

84 Hospitality

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14 Entanglements with employment law

8 Business growth

Colin Clapp from The Business Factory on why working on a business is not such a great idea

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Viewpoints | The PM’s Desk/Management

Taking stock, and looking ahead Time management - the good oil Kevin Vincent is a director of business improvement consultants Vincent and Nugent Limited. Visit www.vincentnugent.co.nz

By Rt Hon John Key, Prime Minister

It seems hard to believe but shortly the fourth anniversary of the first Canterbury earthquake will be here.

In August, Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee confirmed more than 5,100 Crown-owned properties have now been cleared from the flat-land residential red zones in greater Christchurch.

That earthquake on the morning of September This is just over 73 percent of the total number of properties involved 4, 2010, marked the start of a period of 7,030. Current projections are that clearance intense earthquake activity in the region. work will be close to being finished by the The most serious of the earthquakes that end of this year. followed was of course the deadly quake on Finally, I want to touch on the progress being February 22, 2011. made in the central city. As well as the initial emergency response to this hugely destructive event, the Government Commercial building projects are going ahead full steam across the central city, and anchor immediately recognised the people of projects are making progress as well with a Canterbury needed unequivocal support as number of milestones being reached. we moved beyond the initial response and into the rebuild. Construction of the $53 million bus As we near the fourth anniversary of that first interchange anchor project started in June. damaging earthquake, we can take stock on all that’s been achieved so far. The Government said at the time we will stand behind the people of Canterbury as the rebuild goes forward, and we mean that now still. The Government’s contribution to the rebuild is currently estimated at more than $15 billion. We set up a department to co-ordinate the rebuild, launched a plan to rebuild the central city through key anchor projects, and poured resources into rebuilding schools, hospitals, state houses, and other infrastructure. So far this year we’ve seen progress on many fronts. The regional economy is still growing strongly, and unemployment is very low. In July, Housing Minister Nick Smith welcomed the record new-house building rate in Christchurch. He noted that the 3,651 homes consented in the city in the year to June 2014 was over double the 1,730 built in the previous year to June. The rebuild of horizontal infrastructure has been proceeding well, with the SCIRT alliance recently reaching the half-way point of its programme on quake-damaged roads, freshwater, wastewater and storm water networks.

The Innovation Precinct anchor project took a major step forward that month as well with the release of the spatial framework and the announcement that Vodafone’s expanded main South Island office, would be established there. In July, the site was confirmed for the formal memorial for the February 2011 earthquake. Also in July, the Government confirmed the return of 1,100 government staff from 13 agencies to the Christchurch CBD by 2016, all of them housed in three new privatelyowned commercial buildings. This is a real vote of confidence in the future of the central city. In August, I joined Gerry Brownlee in announcing the selection of the preferred developers and operators of the new Convention Centre Precinct. The Crown will be putting $284 million into this project, and construction remains on track to start next year. The rebuild remains a top priority for the National-led Government and will remain so if we form the government again after September 20.

Wikipedia says “Time management is the act or process of planning and exercising conscious control over the amount of time spent on specific activities, especially to increase effectiveness, efficiency or productivity”. Time management for your business can be described metaphorically as the good oil of your business. Oil is the essential life blood that runs through the arteries of cars and mechanical operations and without which, these machines would undoubtedly soon come to a grinding halt and fail. Applied time management is the “good oil” that prevents the squeaking, creaking and tweaking that frequently arises during our often chaotic day to day existence. This squeaking, creaking and tweaking is the time we expend and waste each day and is often a result of a lack of planning, not focussing on what’s important , ineffective delegation, interruptions and procrastination. By applying time management skills you can optimise your effort to ensure that you concentrate as much of your time and energy as possible on the high payoff tasks. This ensures that you achieve the greatest benefit possible with the limited amount of time available to you. Here are some tips to assist you apply the “good oil” of time management. Set smart goals To start managing time effectively, you need to set goals. When you know where you’re going, you can then figure out what exactly needs to be done, in what order. Without proper goal setting, you’ll fritter your time away on a confusion of conflicting priorities. People tend to neglect goal setting because it requires time and effort. What they fail to consider is that a little time and effort put in now saves an enormous amount of time, effort and frustration in the future. A smart goal is a goal that is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time based. In other words, a goal that is very clear and easily understood.

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Plan your day Prioritising what needs to be done is especially important. Without it, you may work very hard, but you won’t be achieving the results you desire because what you are working on is not of strategic importance. To work efficiently you need to work on the most important, highest value tasks. People who over-eat are often described as having ‘eyes bigger than their stomachs’. The time management equivalent is the person who takes on more and more projects that look inviting and exciting, with a total disregard for existing work commitments. Delegate Delegation extends results from what you can do to what you can control. It frees time for more important tasks, allows you to plan more effectively, and helps relieve the pressure of too many jobs, too many deadlines, and too little time. Not only that, but it is one of the most effective ways of developing your staff. Improper delegation however, is worse than no delegation at all. Handle interruptions Some jobs need you to be available for people when they need help – interruption is a natural and necessary part of life. In these cases, do what you sensibly can to minimise it, but make sure you don’t scare people away from interrupting you when they should. Don’t procrastinate Procrastination - the art of convincing yourself that you can put off until tomorrow what you should be doing today. To deal with procrastination, focus on the result of the task, not on the process. In your mind, think on how good it will be to get it done and what that will mean to you. If you find yourself drifting back into negative feelings about it, stop, and again access how good it will be for you to get the result. Tackle the most unpleasant job at the beginning of your working day and break down large tasks or projects into manageable chunks. Schedule each phase with both a start time and a finish time, and tick chunks off on completion.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 7

Viewpoints | Politics/Business Growth

Kiwi smart meters: Plain dumb

Growth sucks

Martz Witty heads the Martz Group, aligning chartered accountancy with the creativity of business development. Visit www.martz.co.nz

David Shearer is the Labour Party spokesman for energy and foreign affairs

I’ve spent a lot of time during the past year listening to business, households and industry to find out what people want in a modern electricity market. Along the way I’ve discovered some rather shocking truths. Like, New Zealand businesses and households have been recently fitted with some of the dumbest “smart meters” in the world. In Australia, the US and many countries in Europe, smart meters are on track to delivering their people a smart grid. In those countries, smart meters send information to consumers about their consumption in real time. People can see and modify, second by second, their electricity usage on a computer, TV or smart phone. The meters also “talk” to smart appliances – dishwashers, fridges – enabling households and businesses to programme appliances to switch on at night to take advantage of offpeak electricity times and save money. Overseas research has shown electricity consumption drops 5-15 percent once people are on this system. The problem is New Zealand’s meters lack the essential chip that makes smart meters smart. More than half of Kiwis now have a brainless new meter in their homes that feeds back information every 30 minutes to power companies, but provides them with little or no benefit. Five years ago, Gerry Brownlee, then Energy Minister, boasted about the wonderful smart future that lay ahead for electricity consumers. At the time, the government was warned it must regulate to ensure our meters were smart. It chose to ignore that advice, it failed to set minimum standards for the meters, and -- unlike practically every other country in the rest of the world -- argued the market would take care of setting standards. They were wrong. The market didn’t deliver. As a result, more than one million Kiwi households lost the opportunity to have greater control over their electricity use.

And that’s simply because successive ministers including our current Minister of Energy Simon Bridges, didn’t set minimum standards. Proper smart meters are also eco-friendly. By managing electricity throughout the day, the evening electricity peaks can be ironed out. That means less need to switch on expensive gas fired ‘peaker’ plants that put out more carbon emissions in order to meet evening demand.

Business growth can be huge fun and very rewarding. It can also suck big time if you’re not ready for it. One thing is certain – a business in dedicated and planned growth will suck cash like never before. This is why we see so many businesses fail during periods of extreme growth.

And it also means lower power prices, because electricity make bigger profits when electricity peaker plants are turned on.

They are not ready for the cash flow demands that will befall them. Investment in infrastructure, systems, additional stock, raw materials, staffing, capital plant, extended credit from debtors, the list is endless.

So, the winners here are power companies, not the consumers. They don’t want Kiwi businesses and households to use power intelligently or save power, because they lose when Kiwis conserve and manage their electricity more efficiently.

Up front and planned growth begins with a dream which in turn blends to a vision once you set deadlines and measurable outcomes. Put in place the appropriate planning (critical success factors and known obstacles) and then you’re ready for the most important part.

Unfortunately, the government is on the side of the power companies.

In planning for growth we typically find the most important part has the least time spent on it. Namely - detailed and in-depth financial projections. We mean real projections – not just random numbers divided by 12 for the months, but instead factual arithmetically correct projections across three scenarios.

It’s a wasted opportunity for New Zealanders, and a wasted opportunity for the environment. Yes New Zealand’s dumb meters can be retrofitted with a computer chip to make them smart, but: • Some will need to be replaced entirely • Some will need a visit by an accredited electrician, costing a minimum of $150 • The majority will cost an electrician’s callout fee. Putting the chip in from the beginning would have cost $20. So our brand-new “smart meters” need retrofitting already. The government knew this all along and has done nothing. It’s backing the power companies who are making record profits.

These three are: • Break even • Likely • Big bold goal. Tied in with your projections you will need some capacity models; arithmetic examples that demonstrate the interlinked nature of aspects of your business.

New Zealanders deserve a better electricity market. Australia, UK and most of the OECD have set minimum standards for smart meters.

Calling in people to help has another huge benefit – a second set of eyes.

A Labour led Government will do the same so kiwi families and businesses benefit.

Sometimes inside a business a form of rose tinted spectacles appear. Outsiders have

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Having the three scenarios documented isn’t enough – each of them needs to be for three years! Now the most common thing we hear screeched here is, “But I don’t know what’s happening next week, let alone next year, and as for three years you must be crazy!” Well whilst it is true my crystal ball broke in the Canterbury earthquakes, the simple fact is that if you have the capacity models and financial inter-relationships built into projections correctly, you actually can plan for the future. So now we have ‘break even’, ‘likely’ and ‘big bold goal’ projections prepared for three years – no mean feat. But wait there’s more. For each of these years, for each scenario, you need to have cash flow projections, profit and loss projections, and balance sheet projections. It is here that 80 percent of business stall and don’t achieve. Why all three? Well, the cash flow is obvious and commonly prepared. Cash is the blood of an organisation, without cash flow you’re dead in the water. Profit and losses are often prepared and equally necessary. Cash flow and profit are cousins, they are not direct siblings. You can make great profit but cash flow can be terrible.

Another crucial aspect of preparing a profit and loss is to plan for taxation payments For example, there’s no point suggesting sales due (which flow straight back out of the cash flow projections). will increase by 100 percent with no increase in staffing (depending on your business) – so Balance sheets can demonstrate the financial it’s imperative to know what all the interstructure and stability of a business. They relationships are. quickly show how solvent a business is, how Many is the case we find a client doesn’t really know all the inter-relationships – that’s equally okay as they are (relatively) easy to extrapolate. Just call in the right people to help with the job.

DISCOVER

a tendency to see things for what they are – they look past unwritten rules and preconceptions. It’s very healthy for you and for your business!

geared (debt/equity) a business is (or needs to be) to achieve the planned growth. Balance sheets are a very interesting portal of insight into the financial infrastructure of your business. Equally it can let you know from whom you should borrow and for what term. Planned growth can be enormous fun and it doesn’t have to suck. Get the right people around you doing the right job.

If you are a March balance date then it’s almost another half year gone… … perhaps you’re preparing your half yearly management accounting reports so that you can adequately plan the rest of the year and project out into next year. Or perhaps your last year’s annuals are still not completed yet? The timeliness principle in accounting refers to the need for accounting information to be presented to the users in time to fulfill their decision making needs.

In a perfect world you can have your accountant explain your accounts from your own system – then you can review and assess the data much more frequently – daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly… however you wish to. It’s a much better scenario and VERY cost effective. Financial literacy and understanding the reports that are produced isn’t something that comes naturally. It’s a learned response and one that can take a little time. Each of the reports you have are related but their relationship isn’t always black and white.

Timeliness is important to protect the users of accounting information from basing their decisions on outdated information. Imagine the problem that could arise if a company was to issue its financial statements to the public some 12 months after the accounting period. The users of the financial statements, such as potential investors, would probably find it hard to assess whether the present financial circumstances of the company have changed drastically from those reflected in the financial statements.

For example a cash flow report shows the cash flowing in and out of a business across (usually) 12 months. This then becomes a profit and loss report which demonstrates the actual (usually taxable) income or profit the business has made. This is not the same as the cash flow report but they are related – more like cousins than siblings though and there’s loads of items in a cashflow report that do not appear in the profit and loss (e.g. capital loan repayments, asset sales and acquisitions, GST and so on). Understanding the relationships is where you glean real control over your business.

Just because you’re not a public company does not diminish the importance of accurate and timely information. On top of all that you then need to make sure the accounts are understandable and easy to read. If you’re not 100% conversant with your accounts then you need to tell your accountant to stop and explain them in better detail. Perhaps in pictures rather than rafts of numbers – it can be done very easily!

But wait there’s more… (yes of course there is), the Balance Sheet is a great tool for knowing how financially solvent the business is. It demonstrates gearing (debt to equity) and can be an excellent tool that needs to be assessed when doing forward projections. Sadly very few people actually prepare projected balance sheets and then wonder why they run out of cash or get on the wrong side of the bank during periods of growth.

Having your reports in a reader friendly manner and on time is important. There’s also another consideration to keep in mind because there’s a real potential for conflict between timeliness and reliability. There is no point having fast accounts if they’re unreliable.

If you want a second opinion on how to read your statements then give us a call, we are offering an hour free to new contacts. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Phone 0800 3890777 and we can make a time. We will even come to your place of business if that makes life easier for you.

With the myriad of new accounting packages available to businesses the age old argument of delays in getting your accounts are falling rather flat.

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Producing reliable and accurate information may take more time but the delay in provision of accounting information may make it less relevant to users. Therefore, it is necessary that an appropriate balance is achieved between the timeliness and reliability of accounting information.

your professional speaker business developer chartered accountant

PO Box 13-010 Armagh Christchurch 8141 New Zealand

P F E W

0800 389 0777 03 389 0771 info@martz.co.nz www.martz.co.nz

Viewpoints | Tactics/Cash flow

Why working on a business is not What's your cash conversion cycle? such a great idea Dave Sewell is one of only two Gazelles International certified business coaches in New Zealand. Visit www.davesewell.co.nz

Colin Clapp is an author, speaker and founding member of The Business Factory. Learn more at www.accountable.co.nz and www.thebusinessfactory.org.

Since the publication of Michael Gerber’s best-selling E-Myth back in the 1980s, small business owners around the world are nearly all encouraged to work on their business, and not in their business. Yet despite this much quoted cliche, the lifespan of most small businesses continues to be alarmingly short. In New Zealand, about one in 10 small businesses fail in their first year, and 70 percent capsize within the first five years (NZ Statistics 5/12). The rationale is that those who work in their business perform tasks that bring money in now, while those who spend time working on their business perform tasks that will lead to better and more sustainable revenues in the future. However, working on a business means owners are still attached to their businesses. Like the opposite of in is actually out, I suggest all business owners consider taking a step back and realise that unless they work out their business, working ‘in’ and ‘on’ it will both prove to be slow, ineffective and less rewarding journeys. Every successful business owner reaches a point where they must transition from ‘doing’ to ‘leading’ in order for their business to grow. It involves stepping back from the day to day operations and taking on more of a governance role. By implementing a number of what I call workOUT strategies, this will be an easy transition for business owners to make. Here are the three simple WorkOUT strategies all business owners should implement to allow their business to thrive: 1. WorkOUT an exit plan It doesn’t mean an owner has to use it, but unless they have a means of enabling the business to survive without them, then they don’t have a business - they just have a job. An exit strategy will force them to develop systems that ensure the business can survive and thrive in their absence. In turn, their business value increases substantially and will give them more choices when and if the time

comes that they need or want to sell, or personal circumstances mean they have no choice to workOUT of their business (e.g. ill-health). 2. WorkOUT a compelling client value proposition This means getting answers to the great sales questions; business owners need to understand what business they are really in and what problems do they solve?

Cash is the lifeblood of business and it’s important to know how long it takes from the minute you spend the first dollar on a job to when that job returns all money owning back to you. The cash conversion cycle (CCC) is a measure of the amount of time each dollar is tied up in the production and sales process before it is converted into cash through sales to customers.

Until they get to the heart of these questions, they haven’t really worked out what their business actually does and how it brings value The CCC looks at the amount of time needed to the marketplace. to sell your stock or service, the amount of The sooner they work out what their business time needed to collect receivables and the length of time the company takes to pay its really does, the sooner they will be in a bills without incurring penalties. position to exploit their compelling client value proposition. 3. WorkOUT efficient and effective systems This work OUT is about investing the required effort and energy to make any business grow. Just like a workout you or I might do at the gym to increase our health and wellbeing, all small businesses need to workOUT in order to build strength and create business wellbeing. Efficiencies and effectiveness comes as a result of relentlessly tweaking the resources and processes that make up the systems in all businesses and methodically implementing measures to track their progress. Test and measure everything; from capturing leads and training people, right through to collecting revenues. In turn owners can then work out better ways to run their business. Although working in and on a business plays a role in current and future success, I strongly recommend working out of a business provides a far better concept for most business owners to enjoy the real motivators behind their business investment; i.e. more meaning, more money and more freedom. To summarise, an exit plan, a compelling client value proposition and efficient and effective systems puts the power of any business into the owner’s hands – ensuring they can run their business, rather than the business running them. Ready for your workout?

There are three distinct areas (four if you sell or utilise stock) where you can work to shorten the time involved, therefore getting that cash into your business faster: • Sales • Delivery cycle

• Can I improve or change my business model? Do I need to reconsider my terms of trade to set expectations that require clients to pay faster, or can I ask for a larger upfront deposit or more frequent progress payments. Delivery Is there anything in your internal process you can do better to reduce the time it takes to deliver your product or service? • Inventory (if you sell or use product) • Ask yourself these questions: • When do we order our stock/supplies in relation to when we use them? Can you tighten this up? • Can you set up payment terms with your suppliers so we make payments based on the dates our customer is going to be paying us? • Can I ensure the deposit paid by the customer covers the entire cost of goods for that job?

• Inventory

Invoicing

• Invoicing.

The first thing here is to avoid mistakes in your accounts. Ensure you have good communication processes in place between your admin team and the people at the coalface doing the work. Also, ensure paperwork is feeding back to the office in a timely manner, allowing it to be turned into invoices as fast as possible.

Take some time to identify your most profitable customers, jobs or sales and then see if there is anything you could have done to reduce the time it took from the start to the finish of that sale. Sales From the first point of contact with a client, how long did it take you to secure and start the job? If you are a builder, for example, this timeframe could be weeks.

See if there is a way you can invoice more frequently - could you send an account at the end of each week, and the most important - what can you do to enforce the payment terms on your invoices. Prompt payment Also, consider how your clients find out about means you can close that job and complete you and identify your top sales leads - is it the CCC. The days taken then become an networking events, mass marketing, cold essential metric to use in your back costing. calling prospective clients? Focus your time and resources on the activity that brings you So, stand back, and look pragmatically the most qualified leads. at every area of your business and see where you can squeeze more time out of There are three things to ask yourself: the cash conversion cycle and put the hard-earned dollars into your back account • Can I shorten the time from first contact to as soon as possible. getting the job started? • Can I eliminate mistakes, from quoting and proposals to email contact, don’t miss anything and be accurate?

YOUR ADVERT HERE If you’re interested in advertising in one of our regional business magazines please contact the Advertising Manager, Di Barclay on Ph: (03) 961 5087 | di@academy.net.nz | www.magazinestoday.co.nz

10 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Viewpoints | Finance/Branding

A mid-year market stock take

Martin Fraser-Allen is an adviser at Craigs Investment Partners. Visit www.craigsip.com

At the beginning of the year, our expectation for 2014 was that a performance of the magnitude of last year was unlikely. However, we still saw a solid year of gains for shares, given that economic growth was accelerating in most regions and earnings growth was likely to be robust. The outlook for economic growth is positive during the coming years. In the next two years, expectations are for every major region to experience positive growth. As is the case with economic growth, corporate earnings growth is also expected to accelerate during the coming two years. Companies in the US, Europe and Australia are expected to see the strongest growth. New Zealand is expected to see more modest earnings growth, although we would argue that local companies are generally more insulated from the risks that could emerge across Europe or in the US. In most markets, dividend yields on shares continue to look attractive relative to alternative investments, such as short term deposits and government bonds. However, with interest rates rising in New Zealand and potentially in the US or UK in the coming 12 months, this yield premium could reduce. When considering how currency movements might impact investor returns, we note that most economists see some medium term NZ dollar weakness coming. Against the US dollar, Euro and British pound, the NZ dollar is expected to decline steadily during the coming three years. Against the Australian dollar, the currency is expected to be more stable as the Australian economy remains challenged. We may well have already seen the NZ dollar peak and the recent weakness could continue in line with our rate of economic growth tapering off. However, we are conscious that the currency has defied economist expectations for some time and has remained persistently high. We remain positive on global shares (including Australia) at current levels and see

potential for offshore markets to perform better than our own. The high NZ dollar also provides an opportunity to add to offshore holdings, particularly as we could see some weakness creep into the currency as the US Federal Reserve concludes its quantitative easing (QE) programme in late October, and as the pace of domestic economic growth passes its peak. The investment case for shares remains solid on a 12 month view and a total return basis. While the current environment exhibits a few concerning signs (high government debt levels, stubbornly high unemployment, artificial central bank support and high valuations) we expect every major region to experience positive economic growth and for corporate earnings growth to continue. It is difficult to see a significant market correction taking place when growth is gaining momentum and while earnings are growing steadily. However, in the short term we see potential for markets to remain volatile, largely on the back of full valuations, geopolitical risks, rising interest rates in the US and investor complacency. Within shares, we recommend investors apply a bit of caution from here and consider taking profits in higher risk positions, or reducing holdings that have become much larger than they were intended to be. For newer investors, we encourage being patient, selective and cautious in your investment approach in the short term. Given our positive medium term view, any market weakness may provide good opportunities for investors to selectively buy good companies that start to look interesting amidst a market sell-off.

For Investment Advice please contact Martin Fraser-Allen, Investment Adviser at Craigs Investment Partners Christchurch branch, by phoning 03 964 3246 or visit www.craigsip.com for more information. Mark Lister is Head of Private Wealth Research at Craigs Investment Partners. His disclosure statement is available free of charge under his profile on www.craigsip. com. This column is general in nature and should not be regarded as specific investment advice.

The logo design process - how the professionals do it Christopher Reid is the managing director of branding, design, advertising and promotion agency, Stimulus Creative. Visit www.stimuluscreative.co.nz

Your logo says a lot about your company – it’s the single most visible manifestation of your business.

Assess and research It is important to research your target market to assess any competition and determine your ideal positioning. The overall vision and plan begins to build from here.

For this reason, a well designed logo is an essential part of every company’s overall marketing strategy. So how do you get the logo that’s exactly right for you?

Formulating a brief A clear and solid brief provides direction and guides decisions throughout the design process. Reaching agreement on a brief means you can be confident you are on the same page with your designer before the work really begins.

It takes more than raw talent to deliver great logos time and time again Without exception, a great logo designer needs to have an abundance of creative talent. Take the time to browse potential designers’ portfolios – you should be inspired by what you see before you consider hiring them. Not every designer will be your greatest asset. Designing a logo is an organic, creative process and it is important to feel a sense of synergy and flow with your designer. It is very important to ask about the design process. This is essential to understanding and feeling confident in what you are signing up for. What does a professional design process look like? Designers who deliver consistently great design work from a proven and robust design process. This process should allow for both strategic and creative thinking. Clear communication is another important element. There needs to be room for you to be involved throughout the design process. Without this, you won’t feel connected to the final design. From the outset, your designer should outline each step along the way so you understand how the process will unfold. The process may differ from designer to designer, but here is a guide to follow: Getting acquainted This involves asking lots of questions, as well as listening to you and your story. Understanding your goals and dreams for your business is important. This begins a professional, fun and supportive working relationship and creates a foundation that makes magic possible!

Concept drawing and drafts Not all designers start with pencil and paper – some prefer to go straight to technology. But for many, starting on paper helps get their creativity flowing. Sketching can also allow multiple concepts to be explored quickly before deciding on the strongest one/s for further development. Develop Usually, one or two concepts are clear standouts that express the right look and feel, but just need more development. If the foundation has been set well, you shouldn’t need to waste time ‘trying out’ too many different concepts. The font, colours, logo mark and maybe a descriptor or tagline, all need to work as a cohesive whole. Your designer should be checking in with you; showing developments and asking how you feel about the design as it takes shape. Refine and finish A professional designer will pay special attention to the details; delivering fantastic results that are professionally drawn and ready for any kind of manufacture or implementation. Drawing out the essence of your brand At the end of the day, you need a designer that really ‘gets’ the essence of your brand. They can then draw on this to create something unique and powerful that will spark the right connection with your audience. Bringing this together into a creative vision that has the right strategy behind it will ensure your new logo has the energy and feeling to really give life to your brand image.

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Aluminium Air Tanks www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 11

Viewpoints | Working Life/Events Diary

Sitting down on the job? Then your chair matters

EVENTS DIARY

What’s happening on the business and entertainment front

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Jane Cowan-Harris heads WorkSpace IQ, a consultancy committed to intelligent workspace design. Visit www.workspaceiq.co.nz

Even if you use a sit-stand desk these days (and if you saw my article in the last issue, you’ll know I’m a fan) the reality is that if you work in an office, at some point you’ll have to spend time sitting down on the job.

Forget bells and whistles, look for levers and knobs

Without a chair that suits your body shape, you will very likely end up in pain - in your lower back, your shoulders, or in the neck and with this in mind, I want to emphasise the point that not all chairs are equal.

Seats which have a slide option offer even more versatility for people of differing heights

Form vs. function Search online for ‘office chairs’ and you will find a plethora of seating, from funky looking imported leather chairs to architectural chairs with rings; many of them seemingly very stylish. This is great if style is all you’re concerned with, but how many of these chairs would you actually want to sit in for 5-6 hours a day? This is the average time that office workers spend sitting each day, so unless you want people to start slowing down due to discomfort, or taking time off to visit the physio, the chiropractor or osteopath, it pays to buy a chair that fits both the type of work people do and their body shape. Like sit-stand desks, mesh chairs are also popular these days. However while they might look stylish and the mesh might be quite firm, check whether the people you are buying for need good low back support. These chairs generally lack lumbar support, which is bad news for anyone with low back pain. How to find the right chair Whether you’re looking for a chair for yourself or buying on behalf of your organisation, how do you find the right chair? Something that won’t cut off the circulation to your legs, cause back pain, or give you a numb bottom? Well, rather than leaving it solely in the hands of your suppliers, approach them armed with some helpful information. Give them an idea of what you (or your colleagues) do during the day. Let them know the size and shape of the people who will be using the chairs and whether or not different people will be using the same chair at different times.

On a positive note, there are many chairs offering more flexibility between users. Look for those with three levers that adjust seat height, seat angle and back angle. Even if it’s hard to spot at first, there should be some back height adjustment via a knob or a ratchet system set into the back stem.

Comfort is king If you want to be really comfortable, opt for a chair with a higher back. It gives more support and helps keep you sitting more upright (reducing the risk of back pain). Also, aim to find a chair with comfortable cushioning on the seat, not too firm. Although it’s important that people are encouraged to move, this ought to be because they realise the importance of moving regularly during the day rather than because their chair is so uncomfortable! If you have any older chairs in your office, be mindful that they will eventually wear out, becoming much thinner on the foam and resulting in a rather hard, uncomfortable seat. I remember one client who could feel the bolts in the bottom of their seat, and it was neither a comfortable nor productive experience! Looking for something different? If you really need something different, there are alternatives to the standard office chair. For example, there’s the Swopper seat (imagine a mushroom on a heavy duty spring), the Bambach saddle seat (great for people such as dentists, podiatrists, beauty therapists who have to lean over their clients) and occasionally the Swiss ball. However, after hearing about some people in the US whose Swiss balls burst, leaving them to fall straight onto their tail bones with some serious injuries, I would only recommend using them with caution and with no sharp objects in the vicinity! Ultimately, whichever type of chair you’re after, go armed with the knowledge that when it comes to sitting down on the job, no one size fits all; take your time, choose carefully and if in doubt, seek professional advice.

12 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Evening function with guest speaker Andy Borland Andy Borland, executive director of Scales Corporation Ltd, is sharing his business success story about publicly listing a business on the NZX for one night only at the George Hotel. Public listing is a goal for a number of businesses, but is unattainable for many. Andy’s story is designed to give you the knowledge and skills about listing on the NZX. To register, visit: www.iod.org.nz

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2 Canterbury Software Summit The Canterbury Software Summit is a day full of insightful talks, engaging exhibitors and abundant networking. The day features an impressive line up of speakers including Alex St John, Ralph Mason, Kris Nygren, Andy Prow, and Nicolás Erdödy. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a director, a manager, a developer, a tester, or someone aspiring to these roles there is something for you at the Software Summit. For more information, visit: www.softwaresummit.co.nz

MONDAY, OCTOBER 13 - 15 TCANZ Conference 2014: Communicating Change The Technical Communicators Association of New Zealand is presenting an exciting line-up of international and local speakers at its 2014 conference, with the focus on the theme of Communicating Change. This is a unique education and networking opportunity for technical writers, communication professionals, analysts and advisors in the field. To register, visit: www.tcanz.org.nz

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21 Constructive Time Management Every one has the same 24 hours in a day, but to make the most of it you need to know how to use those hours wisely. This workshop will help you reclaim your time while also getting more done, just with a few simple time management strategies. This one day course is best suited to owners and managers of businesses who are feeling overwhelmed and under pressure by the lack of hours in the day. To register, visit: www.theicehouse.co.nz

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 22 Grow your Business through Good Governance Smart governance structures can save your business time and money, and is

one of the easiest and most inexpensive improvements any business can make. This two day workshop is designed to teach best practice governance structures. It’ll help you recognise your own weaknesses and blind spots in your current structure and to identify opportunities that will improve the financial performance and future of your business. This workshop is designed for owners and managers of growing businesses but is particularly relevant for businesses with 20+ employees. To register, visit: www.theicehouse.co.nz

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23 Business Network Enjoy an evening of networking with fellow local businesses at the Business Network. The Business Network is run by the Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce and will help you to generate new business, meet new prospects and build on your current business contacts. For more information, visit: www.cecc.org.nz

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30 The Christmas Country Fete – Culverden Get your Christmas shopping under way at New Zealand’s biggest and most popular Fete in Culverden nestled amongst the spectacular park-like setting at the base of the Amuri ranges. The day features more than 200 stalls showcasing the latest trends as well as the classic favourites. Savour the local food and wine, while you enjoy the live entertainment and demonstrations. To purchase tickets, visit: www.thefete.co.nz

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 - 5 Women’s Lifestyle Expo This two day expo at the Horncastle Arena is for women of all ages. With more than 200 companies involved featuring everything from jewellery and beauty to business products and information, crafts, fitness, food and wine sampling. Horncastle Arena Visit: www.expos.co.nz/index_lifestyle

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 - 19 Canterbury Home Show If your own a home, then this is the show for you. It offers a unique opportunity to snap up the latest building products and furnishings, there will be seminar stage featuring the latest trends and DIY ideas, as well as host of other home-related concepts throughout the Horncastle Arena venue. Visit: www.canterburyhomeshow.co.nz

News | Local Moves

Tradies wives - the engine room of many small businesses Christchurch is full of talented tradespeople, but being good on the tools doesn’t necessarily make you a good business owner. And often in smaller businesses, it’s the tradesman’s wife or partner who is looking after the business end of the endeavour. Post quake, an increasing number of tradespeople have made the jump and gone it alone and accountants Findlay and Co see first hand the obstacles some are coming against as they venture out in business. “We know there are a huge number of women that are running a house, looking after children, they might have their own job and then at night they have inherited all their partner’s bookwork,” Findlay & Co’s business development manager, Sonya Hazlett says. “We felt it was important that we lend a helping hand so they can make the most of their businesses.” The blokes are out there working hard, but not reaping the rewards they thought they would... why? Sonya says most often it’s a lack of business knowledge, planning and effective office systems. Recognising the need for quick, basic, but factual information, Findlay and Co established two series of free workshops full of relevant information. The first aimed at the tradies themselves - the second, aimed at, and titled, Ladies/Wives and Partners of Tradies (who do the bookkeeping). Both are free seminars where a variety of professionals make themselves available to share information and discuss challenges. “This was a way that we knew we could add value to the rebuild. If businesses are performing well then we are all winners,” Sonya adds. Canterbury Today asks Sonya about some of the most common pitfalls, and

possible solutions, facing tradespeople going it alone in business. How do these workshops add value to tradies in business? “They are practical and relevant - we bring in a whole bunch of experts - from ACC, to employment relations specialists, business systems specialists that will help people set up terms of trade and credit management systems, to accountants, health and safety experts, tax specialists, banks and business risk insurance consultants. “We cover off so much from quoting and estimating, through to planning for tax, compliance issues and business structure and contracts. We keep it short but relevant, providing a basic overview of everything you need to be aware of to run a successful business. “When we the women in a room together, we are finding the exchange of information, tips and experiences is highly valuable. The women are gaining a tremendous amount of useful knowledge from the workshops.” What is the most common pitfall you see in businesses? “Without a doubt it’s tax management. Many people are terrified they will get it wrong, so they bury their head in the sand. To avoid clocking up huge tax bills you need to plan and put away money regularly, so that when your GST and tax dates roll around - you have the money available.” What other big issues do you see in small businesses? “Owners using business accounts for private expenditure. We recommend owners are paid wages either with PAYE deducted or a regular drawing with money put aside for tax.

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Good processes and the use of a couple of simple tools will make streamline your bookkeeping and be more profitable. Using a simple system like Xero means you can wave goodbye to tedious accounting – saving you time and money, getting tradies back to the tools of their trades.

“This way taxation is taken care of and budgeting is more effective. Many have good cashflow but little profit. “We also see poor quoting and estimating of jobs that are turning a profitable job into a loss. There are easy to use simple job management systems out there to give you more accurate costings and quoting – paying for good systems may cost you initially but you will reap the rewards in the long run.” When it comes to systems - what’s your most useful piece of advice? “Make use of technology. Get cloud based systems like Xero, then use your smart phone or other devices out in the field. “You can generate and email invoices or quotes on the job. Your office has just become mobile – throw away your pens and clipboards. “Having real time information at your fingertips allows you to make smart business decisions – you no longer have to be tied to your desk. “Good processes and the use of a couple of simple tools will make streamline your

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bookkeeping and be more profitable. Using a simple system like Xero means you can wave goodbye to tedious accounting – saving you time and money, getting tradies back to the tools of their trades. “We see a lot of people reluctant to change – even when they see the benefits, as they feel it is too big of a job – with today’s technology, conversions are easy and stress free, and there is full training that is offered to get you up to speed”.

Tradies Workshops Time: 10am – 12pm Dates: Aug 12, September 23, October 25, November 25 Venue: Lifetime Group Building, 192 Moorhouse Avenue To learn more about the free and ongoing Tradies workshops visit the “workshops and seminars” page at www.findco.co.nz/register-now

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 13

News | HR

Entanglements with employment law Drunk employee wins $8,500 Christine Summerville is a consultant for Chapman Employment Relations. Visit www.chapmaner.co.nz

Despite Turei Peters being too drunk to attend work following a Boxing Day drinking binge, his dismissal was deemed to be unjustified by the Employment Relations Authority (ERA). Mr Peters, a knifehand cutter, had texted his employer, Bay Packers (NZ) Ltd, saying “Apologies ray 2 crook to mke it in. Turei”. The next day he explained he had been drinking until 3am and was therefore too drunk to come to work for the start of his 5am shift. As a result Bay Packers sacked Mr Peters for serious misconduct. Contributing to their decision was a meeting that was held in November where it had been explained to all employees the importance of turning up to work during the busy season. They were told if they were absent without a reasonable excuse they could be dismissed.

Mr Peter’s admitted he recalled the meeting, but not clearly. He also had an Employment Agreement which stated that reporting to work under the influence of alcohol or unauthorised absence from work was serious misconduct and the employer may terminate employment without notice. Mr Peters raised a personal grievance claiming the dismissal was unjustified. The process the employer followed to dismiss Mr Peters was closely examined by the ERA. Unfortunately this is where Bay Packers came unstuck. Mr Peters was given only 30 minutes’ notice of the disciplinary meeting. This was deemed to be insufficient time for him to prepare his response or arrange for a representative, despite Mr Peter’s advising he did not require a representative, and therefore it was unfair. Mr Peter’s claimed that although he confirmed at the meeting he was too drunk to work, he was not provided with the

opportunity to explain why. At the ERA hearing he said he some personal issues with his partner which resulted in him feeling stressed, and when offered an alcoholic drink the consumption of this had the effect of lessening his stress. The ERA determined it was also unfair of the Bay Packers to take into account a similar incident of about 12 months previously, as it was too long ago and hadn’t resulted in any disciplinary warning. It was finally concluded the employer should have taken into account Mr Peters’ four years of service and disciplinary free record before deciding to dismiss. Bay Packers was ordered to reimburse Mr Peters $8,528 for three months loss of wages. However, there was no award of additional compensation because Mr Peters had contributed “100 %” to his dismissal. Costs of $1,571.56 have also been awarded against Bay Packers.

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Unfortunately it is more often the failure to follow a fair process, rather than the substance of the matter, that results in a ruling a dismissal was unjustified.

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The ERA didn’t say Bay Packers couldn’t have dismissed Mr Peters for the absence - the problem was the process they followed. Unfortunately it is more often the failure to follow a fair process, rather than the substance of the matter, that results in a ruling a dismissal was unjustified.

Creating a winning culture in your workplace Kevin Vincent is managing director of Vincent Consulting Limited: www.vincentconsulting.co.nz

Culture is the values, rules, practises, rituals and norms through which you conduct business. Culture covers values, ethics, behaviours, awareness and consequences. It takes all of these to create a winning culture. It is the character and personality of the organisation. It is the identity which makes every company unique and which is manifested in the effect it has on its staff, customers, suppliers, stakeholders and the community at large. It’s a way of doing things - how colleagues treat each other, how customers are communicated with and how they are treated. Creating a winning culture is a prerequisite for success in any businesses. A winning culture starts with the organisations leadership, vision, values and ethics. Pride, loyalty and commitment are cornerstones for teams to build a successful winning culture. Companies with strong

winning cultures have employees who effectively self manage because they know what is expected of them, how to achieve the expectation and know they are empowered and supported.

The implication of not having a winning culture is like swimming against a strong tide. A winning culture must be an integral part of every organisation –a part and parcel of every day and not an exception.

A winning culture isn’t just about securing more orders (although that obviously helps), its about having an exciting and stimulating workplace, having fun (if you want ideas to flourish the work environment must be fun), being caring, supportive, people centred, empathetic, forward thinking and proactive.

Teams who are steeped in “company culture” and who openly share and display those values with colleagues and stakeholders will “win”.

I am sure there is a high correlation between employee satisfaction and happy customers. Satisfied employees make better products, offer better services and make customers happy. Winning cultures include an understanding of current company issues and working together to overcome any negatives and leverage on the positives. Teams with winning cultures are goal oriented and visionary. A winning culture is an essential quality of excellent companies. The stronger the functional culture the better. Your colleagues will know what is required of them to meet the customer needs and wants.

14 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

uccess today requires intelligence and speed, operational excellence and financial efficiencies, but above all it must have a winning culture. Instilling a change in any culture is not easy and it will require changing how people think about the company and altering their habits. It will take time and energy. This is our challenge and these guidelines will assist, feed and reinforce your company culture. • Are we / am I performing to the highest possible measure of excellence • Are we / am I prepared to take risks and demonstrate initiative • Are we / am I able to adapt to change

• Are we / am I able to make decisions • Are we / am I working co-operatively to achieve a unified direction • Are we / am I open to new ideas and with sharing knowledge, information and dealing with issues • Are we / am I trusting and trustworthy • Are we / am I respectful to others • Are we / am I accountable for our / my actions • Are we / am I rewarding and being rewarded for results of performance. There are no guarantees, but the chances of success magnify greatly when you have your team on board, their support and understanding. Thomas Jefferson once said “Every generation needs a new revolution”. I believe our generation’s revolution should be to create a winning cultures in our companies. The payoff is significant.

News | Champion Canterbury Business Awards

Award finalists reflect healthy local economy Forty four local businesses have been announced as finalists for the Champion Canterbury Business Awards. The chosen 44 were selected from 130 entries covering a wide variety of industry sectors. Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce chief executive and chairman of Champion Canterbury Ltd, Peter Townsend says “The standard of business acumen clearly illustrated by the finalists in this year’s awards is outstanding. “We’re sensing a great deal of optimism in the business community as a whole, and you can see this coming through in the entries. Each of our finalists has a good story to tell and we can learn good lessons from them as adopters of best business practice. “Despite our preoccupation with the rebuild of our city we have a balanced economy with our interdependence on our rural sector, a strong manufacturing base, excellent service sector support, and software development and IT capability of which we should be very proud,” he says.

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“As in previous year’s, a strong customer service ethic still stands out across the category finalists, along with an ongoing commitment to Canterbury. “We expect the overall category and supreme winners will be businesses thinking ahead long term and strategically making decisions in the context of a changing, but positive economic environment.” Final judging takes place during August and early September with the winners announced at the official awards ceremony and dinner, which is now recognised as the largest of its kind in New Zealand, on Wednesday 17 September.

The finalists

5. CHAMPION TOURISM/HOSPITALITY

7. ACC WORKPLACE SAFETY AWARD

Recognising outstanding contributors to the region’s tourism, promotions, events, hospitality and lifestyle activities.

Recognising exemplary workplace safety systems and procedures, acknowledging a ‘safety first’ approach.

SMALL ENTERPRISE

FINALISTS

• Akaroa Dolphins

• Carlton Taylor Industries

• Christchurch Gondola

• Christchurch International Airport

• Haka Tours.

• Kilmarnock Enterprises.

MEDIUM/LARGE ENTERPRISE • Air Force Museum

8. CHARITY

• Canterbury Museum

Recognising excellence in performance by a Canterbury based charity.

• Earth & Sky.

1. CHAMPION PRODUCER/MANUFACTURER Recognising innovative primary production/ agribusiness, through to sophisticated, high end manufacturing. SMALL ENTERPRISE

SMALL ENTERPRISE 6. CHAMPION GLOBAL OPERATOR Recognising innovative importers or exporters of products or services who contribute to the region’s internationally oriented reputation.

• BioBrew Ltd

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“This year, the Champion Tourism/Hospitality and Champion Global Operator entry numbers have increased significantly. We’re also very pleased with the growing numbers in the CDC Innovation category.

• Ministry of Awesome • Pillars Incorporated.

SMALL ENTERPRISE

• Greystone Wines.

• Modlar

MEDIUM/LARGE ENTERPRISE

• Pacific Simulators

• Aviva

• Solar Bright.

• Kilmarnock Enterprises

• Rangiora Bakery

Champion Canterbury director, Leeann Watson says “12 years after their inception, the awards and what they stand for are more relevant than ever and go from strength to strength.

• Coastguard

• CRONZ (Carpets & Rugs of New Zealand)

MEDIUM/LARGE ENTERPRISE

As in previous year’s, a strong customer service ethic still stands out across the category finalists, along with an ongoing commitment to Canterbury.

• Christchurch Children’s Christmas Parade Trust

• SPCA Canterbury.

• Ravensdown

MEDIUM/LARGE ENTERPRISE

• Tumblar Products Ltd.

• ARANZ Geo • Enztec

2. CHAMPION INFRASTRUCTURE

9. CDC INNOVATION AWARD

• Synlait Milk.

Recognising a breakthrough idea or innovation with potential to transform the business and contribute towards the economic development of Canterbury.

Recognising smart service providers of infrastructure or utilities in helping the community to thrive and prosper. 4. CHAMPION RETAIL FINALISTS • Buildtech

Recognising dynamic retailers who provide a true customer experience.

• Concrete Connect

FINALISTS

• Leighs Construction.

• Bundle Boutique, formerly EGG • Snap

3. CHAMPION PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

• Traiteur of Merivale.

FINALISTS • Clever Medkits • Pegasus Health (Charitable) Ltd, Canterbury District Health Board, Orion Health • Ravensdown.

Recognising excellence in professional service support contributing towards creating a vibrant economy.

“These entries show businesses in a variety of sectors including, manufacturing, primary production, software and professional services focussing on innovation to maintain their competitive advantage in New Zealand and off shore,” she says.

SMALL ENTERPRISE

“A number of our entries have come from businesses growing rapidly, not just in the trades and construction sector, but also in retail, hospitality and professional services.

• Science Alive.

“Trends include businesses implementing innovative business practices, and using strategic partnerships and collaboration as a way of sustainably managing their rapid growth and winning new business.

• Davis Ogilvie & Partners Ltd

• Automation Assist • BVT Engineering Professional Services • Concentrate

74 Hawdon Street, Sydenham P: (03) 366 5070 www.eastmure.co.nz MEDIUM/LARGE ENTERPRISE

• Plato Creative • Warren and Mahoney.

Compliance Contracting Accounting Services Business Advisory Pleased to be providing accounting services and business development solutions to businesses throughout Canterbury. www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 15

News | Communication

Bad writing – does it really matter? By Lynda Harris

I needed to find a good real estate agent to sell my house, so I started talking to a few agents to check out their style and approach. One stood out as friendly, motivated, and customer focussed. He sounded perfect so I asked him to send me samples of his marketing material. When I got it, I was horrified. The material was badly worded, repetitive, full of mistakes, and dull — the complete opposite of the way the agent had come across in person. I started to have doubts. Was this the sort of person I wanted selling my house? Needless to say, I went with another agent. Even if you’re an excellent communicator in person, it’s all too easy for your writing to let you down. Like it or not, the way you write says a lot about you and your company. Claiming you’re reliable, professional, and client-

focussed in your promotions and on your website will be completely undercut by stodgy, badly written and hard-to-follow emails and letters. We know that good written communication can win friends and customers, and boost loyalty and profitability. Poor written communication will have the opposite effect. Mistakes alone carry a huge financial cost. Big mistakes, such as in a large mailout to clients, can result in confusion, cost serious money in staff time and reprints, and be a PR disaster. But even small mistakes can be costly. Misplaced apostrophes, spelling mistakes and bad grammar can send a signal that you are sloppy and have poor attention to detail. Have you ever binned a direct mail letter as soon as you opened it because your name was spelt wrong? Misunderstandings and frustration from unclear writing carry an even greater cost, because the impact is generally ignored or unrecognised. If you write to a customer who doesn’t understand what you are

asking for or telling them, your letter or email may be ignored - in which case your time has been wasted. Or your frustrated customer may call asking for clarification; there goes more of your time and perhaps your reputation. Most people simply don’t want to deal with a business that doesn’t clearly tell them what they want to know. They’ll move on and find one that does. Is it really all that bad, you ask? Why can’t people overlook an oddly worded sentence or a missing comma? The fact is that while spelling and grammar mistakes and typos can be a big turn-off, the greater problem is that your communication has failed. Businesses that fail to communicate well don’t usually survive in a competitive environment where connecting with, and retaining, customers, is the key to success. What to do? Start with a decision to take a critical look at the way you write. Doing an audit of 10 or 20 of your documents can be very revealing.

A good piece of business writing uses clear, concise language and has a logical, readerfriendly structure. Just as importantly, it will have a tone that’s appropriate for its readers and look professional. Making sure your writing is errorfree goes without saying. And the ultimate test? Ask your readers for honest feedback. Once you’ve done your audit, decide on an action plan. Make a commitment to clarity, create a style guide that captures ‘how we write around here’, and invest in some writing training. When you consider the huge cost of poor writing, it’s an investment you can’t afford to put off. Poor writing matters, because it affects your reputation, your credibility, and your profits.

Lynda is founder and director of Write Limited (www.write.co.nz), New Zealand’s leading plain English communications company.

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News | Business Tip

Employee engagement sometimes requires ‘difficult’ conversations By Stephen Lynch

One of our clients emailed me recently wanting to know, “How do you hold people accountable or punish bad results and unmet deadlines in a professional manner, especially in a small family business where employees I’m responsible for have more experience than me?” That’s a good question. As a leader, you get what you tolerate. People do not repeat behaviour unless it is rewarded. If you fail to hold people accountable you are by default rewarding them for poor performance with your silence. Often when you set the right expectations and people are clear on what is required you can improve employee engagement. As a manager, the key things you need to hold people firmly accountable for include: • Getting tasks done on time • Achieving the required performance standard in their role • Demonstrating your core values. Many years ago I read a book called Fierce Conversations which provided some good guidelines for having these “challenging” types of conversations. The book is based on the fundamental truth that most of the time we have polite conversations rather than real ones. We talk about things that are safe rather than the things that really need to be talked about.

Fierce conversations are not about being aggressive. Rather, they are about having moral courage, making clear requests and taking action. Here is my take on a framework you could use: Open the discussion with respect

We don’t want to wait to find out at the next meeting that someone didn’t honour their commitments.

While I think being asked why something hasn’t been done in front of one’s peers is punishment enough, I have observed some companies who meter out small “punishments” to people who do not get their tasks done on time.

Extending due dates should be the exception, not the rule. When you enter a due date for a task, think it through first. Give the team a Reinforce accountability Perhaps they have to wash the dishes that due date we can count on and that you are Let people know firmly that everyone is willing to be held accountable for, because we week, or maybe they have to put $5 into expected to honour their commitments to the social fund. Whatever it is, they make are counting on you to get it done. the team. For example, “When you enter a it fun but attach just enough pain to the Likewise when setting goals. Give a “green” due date for a task, think of it as being like a consequence so that people do not want to target level of KPI performance that the promise you are making to everyone in the make a weekly habit of missing deadlines or team can count on being delivered, by each team. In order to build a high performance not meeting their numbers. individual, nine times out of 10. culture, we need to be able to trust each other Who do you need to have a fierce to do what we say we are going to do. That You want everyone to finish each week with conversation with this week? includes everyone from the CEO to the newest their KPIs in the green and their tasks done on team member.” time. We all want to feel like winners every week and go home with our heads held high, No surprises policy knowing that we had a good week. Stephen Lynch, chief operating officer I appreciate that sometimes things come up Consequences of Global Operations at RESULTS.com that can cause delays, so if that happens, Information kindly provided by RESULTS.com: make sure you note the reason and inform the Accountability is meaningless www.results.com team as soon as possible. No surprises! without consequences. Let people know that you value them as a person and you value their contribution.

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‘YOU CAN LOOK AT A PICTURE FOR A WEEK AND NEVER THINK OF IT AGAIN YOU CAN LOOK AT A PICTURE FOR A SECOND AND THINK OF IT FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE.’ - JOAN MIRÓ

Look at the MIRÓ residences and you will remember them forever. At the forefront of architectural design and construction and with European interior design, these residences define superior luxury inner city living. With an emphasis on ecology and sustainability, the MIRÓ creates an inviting and idyllic environment to live, work and play. Creative layouts and sumptuous interior design push through the boundaries from ordinary to extraordinary. Designed by leading international design group Architectus, the MIRÓ Luxury Residences are situated at 818 Colombo Street, between Peterborough and Kilmore Streets, at the heart of a new developing precinct. The MIRÓ is comprised of 10 luxury single level residences with two penthouses, each fitted with unparalleled finishings including European kitchens, appliances and bathroom fixtures. The interior decor has been designed by Susie and Teassa Paynter – renowned for their exceptional style and creativity. With east and west facing aspects, each residence receives optimal morning and afternoon sun, perfect for outdoor entertaining well into the night. The expansive balconies are ideally situated, offering shelter from the prevailing easterly wind.

Each balcony ensures privacy and an aesthetically pleasing street frontage. Adjustable shades make them ideal for any environment. The MIRÓ Luxury Residences are designed to have expansive indoor and outdoor spaces that blend seamlessly together. Elegant, light-filled living areas provide ample room for entertaining or simply to just relax and unwind. Each residence has two car park spaces that are accessed via a secure car park with an automated entrance off Peterborough Street. The car parks also provide generous storagespace for the residences. The project combines the uniquely designed residences with modern office space, positioning them above more intimate street level hospitality spaces that will provide a social environment for the buildings occupants. With a range of entertainment, from theatres to over 60 cafés, bars, restaurants that are only a short stroll away the MIRÓ Luxury Residences is modern living at its best. The impressive, secure entrance to the grand inner courtyard with green walls, tranquil water feature and an abundance of natural light, the MIRÓ offers apartment living like no other.

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News | Election 2014

What the business sector wants from the elected With the countdown to this year’s General Election under way, the business sector’s leading advocacy groups have released their wish lists, citing what they want addressed and/or implemented from the nation’s political leaders. The BusinessNZ manifesto makes recommendations to all political parties on policies needed for growing enterprise. BusinessNZ chief executive Phil O’Reilly says “policies decided on at election time can have a big impact on the ability of business to provide plentiful jobs and high living standards for New Zealanders. “Business NZ would like to see policies that allow for this outcome.” Recommendations from key business groupings – small business, high value manufacturing and services, digital business and regional business – show a lot of commonality, he says.

innovation, and reducing the tax on Kiwisaver savings to 15 percent head the list. “Our businesses generate the employment and revenue that pay the taxes on which the government depends, and they deserve a positive policy environment,” EMA chief executive Kim Campbell says. “They should not be taken for granted.”

The six manifesto policy areas are 1. Education and skills. 2. Innovation, research and development. 3. Local government consenting.

“Policies for competitiveness are most needed.

4. Small business growth.

Education

6. Retaining certain current policies.

“Businesses want better outcomes from the education system. Many can’t find staff with the right skills. They want to see the education system focused more on in-demand skills like technology, IT and engineering.”

“Employers want schools to advise on the preparedness of school leavers for work by issuing them an Employment Readiness Certificate. They also want schools to help with a campaign that urges more students to take up a career in a trade,” Campbell says.

Taxation “Tax is another competitiveness issue. New Zealand companies pay the highest real rate of corporate tax in the developed world, largely because our tax system is so effectively broad-based with few exemptions. “Businesses would like to see the nominal rate of corporate tax set much lower than the current 28 percent.”

Regulation Better overall regulation, including more flexible employment law, was a key need expressed, particularly by small business. Businesses also sought specific policies to improve digital connectivity, resource management, seismic strengthening, water allocation and others, Mr O’Reilly says.

Employers and Manufacturers Association’s six point wish list The Employers and Manufacturers Association’s 2014 election manifesto has cited a six point election wish list it says is pragmatic and doable. An overhaul of local government consenting processes, employment readiness certificates for school leavers, automatic extensions of migrant work visas, soft loans to encourage

5. Superannuation and business investment.

“Business wants more investment in innovation and R&D by broadening and simplifying access to grants, accelerated depreciation, tax credits and by introducing soft loans as many other countries do. “They want local authorities to set standards for the time taken to issue resource and building consents, with unreasonable standards subject to judicial review.”

Other measures sought: • For experienced company directors to be appointed to small businesses with less liability than others • Encourage small business mergers • Raise the age of eligibility for superannuation to 67 by 2023 • Reduce tax on Kiwisaver to 15 percent • For government to underwrite a commercial annuity product.

Existing measures to be retained: • Comprehensive GST • Advance FTA negotiations • Retain trial employment periods and youth rates • Retain or reduce ACC levy rates.

20 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“

We are asking all political parties to adopt policies that will help exporting and manufacturing businesses grow their competitiveness and continue to contribute to a healthy economy and community. Successful and growing businesses in turn create more high value job.

”

- PENNY NELSON

Exporting and manufacturing wish list

government raising the floor contained its recommendations on:

ManufacturingNZ and ExportNZ have also released their manifestos, which make recommendations to all political parties on policies needed to support, funnily enough, companies involved in exporting and manufacturing.

• Growing exports while improving environmental quality

“The success of these companies is critically important for our economy and for the wellbeing of communities all over New Zealand,” ManufacturingNZ and ExportNZ executive director, Catherine Beard says.

• Schemes for product stewardship and waste diversion

“We are asking all political parties to adopt policies that will help exporting and manufacturing businesses grow their competitiveness and continue to contribute to a healthy economy and community. Successful and growing businesses in turn create more high value jobs,” she says.

Sustainable Business Council chair, Brett Tomkins says the recommendations came from SBC member businesses that make up about 28 percent of New Zealand’s private sector GDP.

“Exporters are looking for more free trade agreements and increased overseas market entry assistance, amongst other things, and manufacturers would welcome greater access to Government procurement projects and greater support for investment in R&D, innovation and design.”

Sustainable business wish list The Sustainable Business Council’s briefing entitled Business lifting the ceiling,

• Moving to a low carbon economy • Getting pricing that reflects the value of resources

• Sustainable freight and transport • More certainty on climate change policy.

“Many of New Zealand’s leading companies are engaged in SBC work because of their deep commitment to sustainability.” The council’s executive director, Penny Nelson says the recommendations are aimed at getting business and government working together on the big issues. “There are steps that business can take and others that Government can take, and we can also work together in moving towards a sustainable economy, environment and society.”

Pelvic organ prolapse (PLP), otherwise known as vaginal prolapse, affects up to 40 percent of women over the age of 50 although many younger women also suffer from this condition.

What sort of problems can prolapse present with?

Many of these women suffer in silence as they are simply too embarrassed to come forward and seek help for symptoms that often interfere with their sex life and their ability to engage in physical activities such as attending the gym or playing with children or grandchildren.

3. There may be some difficulty passing water, either the urinary stream may become weak and slow with a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder, having to return to the toilet several times to completely void or involuntary leakage of urine (urinary incontinence), which can prevent many women from leaving the home to socialise, i.e. attend social functions particularly when dancing is involved and a fear of straying too far from a lavatory.

Many feel uncomfortable on a day by day basis. The situation was even worse 20 years ago, but even though such health issues are now often discussed more candidly between friends and family, many women are still simply too shy and too proud to admit that they have a problem.

What causes prolapse? The main cause is childbearing. The passage of a baby through the birth canal can cause damage that becomes more evident with advancing age. The harder and more difficult the delivery, the more likely that prolapse can be the eventual outcome.

1. A woman may be aware of a bulge at the entrance to the vagina or a feeling of fullness within the vagina often likened to the sensation of a tampon falling out. 2. There may be a dragging sensation in the lower abdomen, particularly to each side along with discomfort in the lower back.

4. There can be difficulty emptying the bowel and the term for such is obstructed defaecation. This means that unlike constipation, stool makes it as far as the rectum but mechanically a woman can find it very difficult to empty the bowel. 5. There may be discomfort during intercourse but even if this is not a problem, sexual function may be compromised as many women simply do not feel ‘sexy’ when they are aware of a bulge near the entrance of the vagina.

Management / treatment 1. By the time a woman is aware of a bulge at the entrance of the vagina, pelvic floor exercises may no longer be able to fix the problem. Sometimes however, working hard at pelvic floor exercises can minimise symptoms such that they become less troublesome and may allow a woman to avoid surgery. A physiotherapist with a special interest in pelvic floor function is the best person to train a woman how to correctly and effectively perform pelvic floor exercises. 2. A vaginal ring pessary shaped like a donut can be inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs. If this works well for a woman she is usually unaware of its presence within the vagina and even normal sexual activity can take place. The ring often needs to be replaced every six months for a fresh clean device. 3. Surgery can be performed to reposition the prolapsed vaginal walls and many operations have been devised and surgical techniques have become more and more successful during recent years. There has been improvements made to the various suture materials that can be used and to the methods of performing surgery. For example a laparoscopic approach to placement of anchoring support sutures serves to give superior support, and the advent of vaginal mesh placed between the

layers of the vaginal walls has been yet another advance in recent years. One could be forgiven for thinking that mesh simply causes problems because of recent reports within the media. For the vast majority of women however, the surgical outcome is excellent and in many cases such a good surgical outcome could not be achieved with any other method. Some mesh products can also be placed at laparoscopic surgery. It is beyond the scope of this article to outline in detail how each surgery is performed or indeed, how one decides which operation would be best suited to the problem faced by any given patient. What I can say however, is that help is available and although the surgery does not amount to a trifling procedure, the outcomes tend to be life changing in a positive way. If you believe that you may be suffering from symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, then you should first consult with your family doctor who should be able to give you an opinion as to whether you indeed have a prolapse problem or not. Management of the problem however can only take place if you bravely face up to the issue, swallow your pride, conquer your embarrassment and confide in a health professional. Medical consultations are confidential so your privacy is protected. Michael East- Gynaecologist Oxford Women’s Health

More rare causes are chronic constipation and connective tissue disorders where the body’s tissues are more stretchy and elastic.

oxford women’s health ‘ at fortehealth

03 379 0555 Fax 03 379 5299 132 Peterborough Street PO Box 3932, Christchurch 8140 info@oxfordwomenshealth.co.nz www.oxfordwomenshealth.co.nz

News | Trends

All for one Do you have a great idea which could be the next big thing, but you don’t have the start-up costs to get it off the ground? Unfortunately a great idea and plenty of passion for it aren’t enough; turning your brainchild into a viable product needs cold hard cash because it won’t manifest out of pure brainpower alone. This is where crowdfunding comes in; asking friends, family and perfect strangers for money is the online fundraising realm people have got giddy about. In a nutshell, crowdfunding is a way of funding a project by raising funds online from individuals anywhere in the world who pledge or donate money. Its basically asking people to buy into a good idea. The process begins with a campaign, which could be non-profit, political, philanthropic, commercial or financial campaign. You market your idea through an online platform, such as KickStarter and the point is to create awareness to meet or exceed your funding target. If you’re lucky you could discover opportunities, including potential investors, expand your customer base and at the end of it turn your idea into reality. Whether you’re looking to market a cool gadget, raise funds for a school or a concert, crowdfunding projects are created by everyone from business owners, entrepreneurs, established companies, filmmakers, musicians and artists to designers, inventors and individuals.

By Davina Richards platform you decide to use legally funds Think of crowdfunding as being a bit like projects in New Zealand the TV show Dragons’ Den. You present your project or idea in front of an audience • There’s no such thing as too early. Get and enlighten them with a compelling working on your campaign before it even presentation. If you’re pitch is successful a goes live. Tell people about your upcoming dragon may offer their money, but if it doesn’t campaign - use social media, send out you don’t get a cent. emails, reach out to local media, key influencers and other organisations with Kickstarter and Indiegogo are two of the bigger networks. This way you have a world’s largest funding platforms. Kickstarter better chance of building funds and secure allows you to collect your funds only when a small community of supporters who may you reach 100 percent (they take a five be willing to donate or pledge as soon as percent fee if your campaign is successful), your campaign goes live whereas Indiegogo and New Zealand’s Givealittle let you collect the funds no matter • When launching your campaign, give how much you’ve raised. people the specifics. Explain what impact Crowdfunding requires organisation, discipline and a lot of hard work if you want to pull off a successful campaign, so proceed with caution. Statista.com states, as of February 2014, the success rate of fully funding a project on Kickstarter was just under 44 percent. There are no guarantees for campaigners or donators, but here are a few tips to give you a winning chance of success.

Crowdfunding check list

Research by IDC New Zealand indicates Kiwi businesses are being pragmatic and flexible regarding the cloud, mobile, social and big data. IDC’s recent Asia Pacific (excluding Japan) Cloud survey shows 100 percent of New Zealand organisations have a cloud budget forecast between now and 2016 and 79 percent believe that they are using two to five cloud services already.

– 2016 as a service and cloud-based business applications alike

• Barriers to the adoption of cloud are coming down. Security of information is still the number one concern to businesses (36 percent of businesses identify this as a top concern) followed by the technical constraints of legacy architecture (16 percent). IDC New Zealand research manager, Adam Dodds says the cloud is bringing the competitive landscape of Kiwi businesses closer than ever before. “All business sizes and industries are adopting to the opportunity of leveraging compute services provided from outside of their premises to create market and business operations opportunities.

The key differences between New Zealand and other countries is our neighbour’s alignment of people and processes to make the appropriate decisions regarding what cloud is best for what need.

“The challenge to all is how you untangle your legacy infrastructure and align your organisation (with people and processes) to adopt cloud appropriately.”

• Cloud adoption shows high levels of forecasted growth (+10 percent) across off-premises infrastructure between 2014

New Zealand has been making a name for itself when it comes to Kiwi innovation, so there’s no surprise Kiwis can support its own country’s businesses thanks to a new equity crowdfunding platform called Snowball Effect. Launched this April, Kiwi entrepreneurs and small to medium sized businesses can seek new capital, and access funding in exchange for equity. It provides them an opportunity to pitch their business ideas and growth plans to the public via a website portal, expanding the pool of potential investors while reducing the cost and complexity associated with raising funds. For more information, visit: www.snowballeffect.co.nz

• Rewards work. Although some people are happy to donate and expect nothing back, letting people know what rewards they will get for donating is a good incentive to attract contributions. Likewise, it encourages them to share your ideas with others. Rewards can be anything from a free gift, acknowledgement or concert tickets. You’re responsible for delivering rewards so remember to take into account delivery costs.

Popular crowdfunding websites: www.kickstarter.com www.indiegogo.com www.rockethub.com www.pledgeme.co.nz www.boosted.org.nz

Thinking of your approach to cloud do you actively manage the use of the cloud services by scaling up and scaling down your requirements to control costs

• The top two reasons for businesses going to the cloud are to reduce IT costs and to avoid investment in owning their own infrastructure

The 2014 cloud study covered 2,300 businesses reveals New Zealand to be in the top four countries in the APeJ region with regards to maturity of cloud adoption.

The survey’s key findings:

• Be sure to include your budget, your funding target and how long the campaign will run for. People contribute for different reasons: they have a connection to the person campaigning, they want to be a part of something, they’re seeking rewards or they want to support a worthwhile venture. Give people reasons why they should care: it’s almost all up to you to attract supporters and turn them into donations

• Ask yourself why you’re campaigning in the first place. You should have a good reason behind your idea, so think about why you’re asking for money and where the money will go. Plan how you want to present your story • Connect with your audience by producing a video – keep it short and to the point, in an exiting and rewarding way, and always and upload pictures. Tell a story and anticipate questions encourage people to sign up for email • Like when starting any kind of business, updates and to contribute research is crucial. Thousands of ideas • Care about your design. There’s nothing remain on crowdfunding platforms, so worse than clicking on a website to find there’s no excuse not to explore and get an that its design is ugly, impractical and idea of what else is already out there confusing. It’s the one thing that puts • Decide which platform is right for your people off instantly. Put your best design campaign; there are hundreds to choose forward and one which matches the from. Read the rules and make sure that the purpose of your campaign

Kiwi companies embrace the cloud New Zealand companies appear to be reacting well to the changing technological landscape.

your project could have, where the money goes, how people will benefit from it and what else they can do to help other than donate money

Crowdfunding Kiwi-style

The next step in cloud adoption IDC views the role of the CFO as critical in the next phase of cloud adoption. To move to a more optimised model, organisations need to be clear on the value of

22 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Not at all - we tend to use more

Sometimes - we review our usage and spend on an intermitant basis

its business information and as such where it should sit (e.g. in a local hosted environment or in a Public Cloud). Equally, CFOs must evolve a mechanism for the governance of the use of cloud. Some 53 percent of New Zealand businesses are not tracking their use of the cloud, they are just using more. “CFOs appear to be the last to the table in the new world of cloud services. Only 32 percent of businesses feel that their financial governance is set up to manage, optimise and track the flexible consumptions models of cloud.” Budgets for IT are also shifting across the business with 56 percent of Kiwi organisations surveyed showing that the IT budget is now shared. Another recent New Zealand study showed that marketing and

All the time - we actively look at our usage and costs and change to reflect our needs

the lines of business are now as a great, or if not a greater, influence in the decision making process around the adoption of technology than the CIO. “New Zealand has reacted well to the need to be more strategic in its adoption of technology as a business differentiator. “If I was looking for guidance regarding the adoption of cloud I would be seeking out a service provider that can demonstrate great success in taking customers to the cloud. Research has clearly shown that using a service provider has a higher opportunity to be successful than taking a DIY approach,” Dodds says. “Organisations don’t go to the cloud to be cheaper. They go to the cloud to become more responsive to the market and more agile”.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 23

been seen

Images taken and supplied by Lynne Puddy-Greenwood If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Lynne (Canterbury’s been seen representative) on: lynne.p@academy.net.nz

The people, their faces and all the right places - Canterbury

Eco Frame and Mirror held an opening in the brand new contemporary building at 394 Colombo Street. Graeme Patching, the owner, invited clients and friends to celebrate the opening.

3 7

1. Lisa Gane (Lumo Photography), Vanessa Puddy 2. Chris Tillson, Gene Warriner, Mathieu Renisio (John Warriner Construction) 3. Diana Browning, Raylene Palmer 4. John Stylianou (Adgraphixs), Robyn McIlroy, Graeme Patching (Eco Frame and Mirror) 5. Robyn McIlory, Rebecca Lee, Angelique Brown 6. Sam Leary, Wayne Woods, Pat Tuite (PHP Plumbing) 7. Ronald Mottram, Bryan Andrews 8. Francis & Katrina Fisher, Stephanie Oberg

Thermosash, one of the largest commercial window and curtainwall designer, manufacturer and contracting companies in New Zealand, opened their new state of the art factory in Christchurch. The event saw a large number of people involved in the rebuild of Christchurch attending. 9. Ruth Dyson, Dynise Valli 10. David Hayes (Thermosash), Jasper Van Derlingen (Sheppard & Rout), Neil Thwaites (Thermosash) 11. Chris, Charmian, David & Betty Hays 12. Doug Higgins (Custom Aluminium) Dennis Paget (Thermosash)

13. Dave Anderson (ChCh City Council), Nigel Wall (Works Glass, Auckland) 14. Jack Harris (Fletcher), Kent Nixon (Thermoash Auckland) 15. Jack Harris (Fletcher Construction), Peter Neven (Synergine) 16. Mark Vryenhoek, Jerad Tinnin (Jasmax)

Hummingbird Coffee hosted Court Theatre at Oddfellows café to present the Court Theatre with a further cheque from the sale of their re:Start coffee blend, lifting the total donated from this innovative initiative to in excess of $100,000 over the past 24 months. 17. Bruce Bascand, Mark McGuinness (Belgium Beer Bar), Wayne Ormandy, David Sidaway (Golden Home Rest home) 18. George & Sue Cowper (Hummingbird Coffee), Sue & Murray Jones (Dove Charitable Trust) 19. Colin McPhillamy (Plum), Michelle Walker, Tina Duncan, Laura Reeve, Katie Duncan

20. Murray Jones, Keren Oertly Ryan, Sue Jones, Steve Brooker 21. Grant Lovell, Kirsty Gillespie, Yani Johnanson, Simon Rennie (Court Theatre), Steven van der Pol (Arrow International) 22. Rachel Sears, Giles Tanner, Jacqui Rapley 23. Mandy Perry (Court Theatre), Jarrard Johnstone 24. Laura Hill, Simon Rennie

23 3

Modelled on the highly successful award winning Auckland buildnz | designex, the Canterbury event at the newly named Horncastle Arena . 145 key suppliers from across the design, construction and build sectors offer the latest products to the great turnout. 25. Josh Lynch (David Trubridge), Madeline Knight 26. Nathan & John Roper (Horizon), Grant Thomas (Dominion Constructors) 27. Richard Giddings, Lauren Prestney (Site Safe), Neil Walkinshaw (Environment Canterbury) 28. Alicia Josephs, Alistair Dickie (Hilti NZ) 29. Tania Miles (Vynco Industries), Chris Tyson (Forman Building System) 30. Kent Ramsay, Mark Fewellen (Resene Construction Systems) 31. Mark Ward (Sto Plaster Systems) 32. Luke Wallace, Stephen Dyer (Plumbline)

24 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Businesses stand up to solve youth social issues As New Zealand’s youth organisations face an unprecedented funding crisis, businesses nationwide are standing up with new social brand Y for YOUTH to solve our serious youth social issues. New Zealand has the highest youth suicide rate in the developed world, yet there are more than 6,000 charities dedicated to assisting our youth throughout the country. Y for YOUTH co-founder Alex Greig says “There are hundreds of very successful programmes out there already in the community. The problem is that they are competing with each other for a diminishing pool of government grants, public donations and gaming trust money, which is limiting their ability to scale and expand capacity and in some instances threatening their very survival.” Find Your Field of Dreams Foundation CEO, Craig Pollock says he and his organisation are fully aware of the impending youth sector funding crisis. “Even as one of the larger youth organisations, it is a major challenge finding alternative revenue streams just to fund our current programmes. I suspect a lot of smaller youth organisations may simply not survive the next few years.” Yet as traditional funding sources for the charity sector continue to decline, New Zealand’s alarming youth social statistics, such as bullying and suicide, continue to increase. Just last year there was a 40 percent increase in youth suicide for 15 – 19 year olds.

What can we do about our youth social issues and the youth sector funding crisis? “New Zealand’s youth social problems are not going to be solved with sausage sizzles and the old method of rattling the bucket outside shopping centres. Our serious social problems require serious resources and funding,” Greig says. Y for YOUTH is a turnkey corporate social responsibility platform that enables businesses to contribute to the youth sector in such a way that they benefit from positive publicity and increased sales. Businesses and brands contribute a percentage of their profits to the Y for YOUTH support network. In return companies display the Y for YOUTH trademark on their products and advertising, similar to Fairtrade or the Heart Foundation Tick branding models. Consumers are then encouraged to purchase from these companies. Consumers want to buy from companies that support our communities Greig says that today more than ever, consumers want to buy from companies that contribute to our communities. “We have developed a system that makes it easy for companies to donate to the youth sector, but in such a way that they

benefit from increased sales, positive publicity and an improved brand image. It’s a win-win.” Through the creation of a sustained funding platform for New Zealand’s youth sector, youth organisations’ fundraising burdens can be alleviated so they can focus on expanding their programmes and impacting as many youth as possible throughout New Zealand. Y for YOUTH co-founder Lara Jane says “We’re talking about transformation and positive social change for all of New Zealand. The more youth that are positively impacted, the more youth that grow up to be happy, healthy, contributing members in our communities.” 100 Founding Angels As Y for YOUTH works towards becoming financially sustainable, it has created an opportunity for 100 forward thinking businesses and community focused individuals who wish to be involved in a movement to reduce New Zealand’s youth social statistics, to become Founding Angels.

Founding Angels support the development of Y for YOUTH by making an initial $5,000 donation (or $500 per month x 10 months), then $100 per month for three years. Well known entrepreneur Michael Mayell, founder of Cookie Time, was one of the first to step up and claims that becoming a Founding Angel is a good way of practising corporate social responsibility. “This is just a great opportunity to give back, and it makes it very easy for businesses to do it.” Twenty eight companies and individuals have already come on board as Founding Angels to support the development and growth of Y for YOUTH including Blacksmith Ltd, Navman Wireless, Academy Publishing, Coca–Cola, Tiki Taane, Kim and Mona Dotcom and Sales Star. For further information and to get involved visit www.yforyouth.org

been seen

Images taken and supplied by Lynne Puddy-Greenwood If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Lynne (Canterbury’s been seen representative) on: lynne.p@academy.net.nz

The people, their faces and all the right places - Canterbury

An evening was held to celebrate the change of ownership of Zip Plumbing Plus in Moorhouse Ave. The guests and suppliers where treated to crayfish and lots of lovely food and drinks where the new owners thank the staff for their service to their clients and committed that this will continue under the new owners. 33. Simon Murphy (Peter Cocks), Nigel Knowles (Edward Gibbon), Richard Hurley (Rheem), Mike Mallia (Peter Cocks) 34. Jeanette Tod, Barbara Meyer (Edward Gibbon), Pam Hoskin 35. New Owners Leighton Johnston, Barbara Mayer, Murray Knowles

36. Richard Ilott (Richard Ilott Plumbing) Gilly & Andrew Southen (Southplum) 37. Keith, Jicinta, Jim 38. Richard Ilott (Richard Ilott Plumbing), Alan Calvert (Edward Gibbon), Steve Hill ( Steve hill Plumbing) 39. Mary Westwood, Alan Edwards (Edwards Plumbing), Kari Barr (Steve Hill Plumbing)

Pinewood homes held a function, attended by contractors and staff, to mark the opening of their new showhome at Winfield Drive in the Wigram Skies subdivision. 40. Sara Ashcroft (Bayleys), Ed Cook (Dept of Relaxation) 41. Mark & Toby Robertson (Pinewood Homes) 42. Adric Orlita (Hardie & Thomson), Gill Kane (Right House)

43. Finn Wray (Smart Clad), Stewart Campbell (Hardie & Thomson) 44. John Edgington, Paul Brady (Roofing Industries) 45. Jane Searle, Rod Hibberd (Blue Dog Events) 46. Saar Hellemans (Pinewood Homes), Rebecca Lewis 47. Sam Flintoff (Cook Brothers Construction) & Stacey Flintoff (DHB)

ECANZ Trade Show at the Silks in the Addington Events Centre saw the latest products presented to a large number of the trade. 48. Scott Kennedy, Fiona Anderson, Chris Bryne (Thorn Led Lighting) 49. Paul Warwick (Phoenix Contact), Michael Celliers (Rittal) 50. Reiss Hardy, Stephanie Martin, Kevin Down (Smiths Elements) 51. Hugh Mitchell, Nigel Currie (HPM Legrand)

52. Jackie, Maurits Roos (Jam Ware) 53. Craig Henderson, Dennis King (CSL Cuthbert Stewart Ltd) 54. Mark Booth, Kevin Beeby, Wayne Lewis, Martin Laws (Carrel Electrade) 55. Jacinda Williams, Phil Thackwell (Electrex Manufacturing)

TriEX had been expanding their team gradually over the past few years so they held a function in their new premises at 49 Carlyle Street to show off the increased space that will enable then to have the facilities to conduct their training courses on-site. 56. Alison Park, Fleur Truscott, Rachel Cumming 57. Rob Acutt (TriEx Dunedin), Adrian Brown, Nashid Khela (TriEx), Craig Radford

58. Lindsay Mantell, Sarah Jimmink (Director TriEx) 59. Cheryl McNickel, Jocelyn O’Connor (TrixEx) 60. Charlie Rattray, Tommy, Tracey, Tessa Watson 61. Majella Moloney, Mellissa McIntyre, Matt O’Connell 62. Steve,Belinda & Madison Hunter 63. Brenda Baynon, Tania Jarvis (ADT)

26 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

A1 Homes Function to celebrate the opening of the new showhome 42 Sherborne St, St Albans and winning the bronze award for our showhome at Silverstream from the Master Builders Association. 64. Nick Pettet, Sam Logan, Glen Hedges 65. Adam Edwards, Wayne Girdler, Layne Watson 66. Bruce Clayton, Gordon Kenning 67. Grant Mattais, Blair Oughton

BNZ Partners Canterbury celebrated 21 years as principal sponsor of The Court Theatre in Christchurch with its annual gala performance on 24 July. 68. Jemma Penelope, Lilia Tarawa 69. Ann Morrell, John Moody & his wife, Karleen Edwards (CCC), Sinead Horgan 70. Sue & Greg Cowles

71. Claire Vaudrey, Christine Renwick, Justin Vaudrey, Justine Dodds, Lawson & Andrea Scott

72. Warwick (Cera) & Kaye Isaacs, Philip Aldridge (BNZ) 73. Rodney Boon, David Abbott, Anna Abbott, Kim Parker, Mike Parker 74. Aline Souza, Caroline Midgley, Matt Holloway 75. Phillip Roth, Sinead Horgan, Tim Keenan

74 3

The Paint’n’Sip Studio where people could enjoy a creative experience and have a glass of wine with friends was opened recently. 76. Nicola Fraser (Taylor Shaw Lawyer) Amanda Anthony (Owner) 77. Wayne & Debbie McKay 78. Jude Hunter (CDHB), Rochelle Morrison (Ossis Ltd), Joelle Abraas (The Flooring Centre), Amanda Anthony 79. Sam Walker, Sam Clague

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 27

Cover Story | Wil McLellan

Wil McLellan’s epic ambitions By Laura Hall

Cantabrians need no reminding that nothing can change the fortunes of a people or the place they live in like Mother Nature. And such is the case with Wil McLellan. Wil was a SME business owner abruptly turned project manager on one of the first large scale commercial builds in the city centre after the February 2011 earthquake, co-founding the Enterprise Precinct and Innovation Campus (EPIC). Now he has been awarded the prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship in recognition of his innovative ideas and is preparing to fly to America for the seven week fellowship program, making him one of the few New Zealanders to ever do so. The EPIC Innovation Centre is an unassuming tin shed, or at least that was my opinion of the building before visiting it to meet Wil. But in typical Kiwi fashion this tin shed is achieving great things without a lot of fuss. As I stepped into the building Wil warmly greeted me and proudly gave me the grand tour through EPIC, home to more than 20 technology and innovation companies. He is very enthusiastic about the place and I quickly realise this is no ordinary office building. I first notice how incredibly awesome the workplace environment is as I spot a flash coffee machine, gifted to them by Google, standing desks with treadmills positioned under them, a lounge with an Xbox set up, electric massage chairs and even a massage room. But as Wil introduces me to some of the people who work in the building and explains the type of work they do, it registers that the EPIC centre is so much more than its flash material goods. At the heart of this temporary building is a community of unbelievably smart entrepreneurs running global businesses and closing big business deals with high profile international corporations; an impressive feat for a few Kiwi start-ups.

What is EPIC? The Epic Innovation Centre was co-founded and led by Christchurch-based technology business owners Wil McLellan and Colin Andersen. The small to medium sized tech businesses that call this building home specialise in 28 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

software development, website creation, SLI search engine, gaming development and marketing. The building is called The Sanctuary, it is stage one of an ambitious two stage project to create a world class centre for innovation-based companies in Canterbury. It opened in September 2012 and houses various businesses employing around 250 staff throughout the impressive building, which features private offices as well as shared spaces including a lounge, meeting area and kitchen. Wil is in discussions with the government about EPIC’s continued future in the city, saying “Everybody is very supportive about EPIC being apart of Canterbury’s future”.

“

When we started it was me and Colin with a white board. We had no money, no land, no property development experience, no credibility in the property industry... and our houses had been destroyed, but other than that everything was fine.

Ideas of epic proportions

”

Wil moved from the UK to Christchurch about 11 years ago with a career background based in corporate technology. He helped form several computer game companies with a few like minded friends in Christchurch about five years ago. But while Wil’s career history is firmly rooted in the tech sector, he makes it clear he is not tech savvy. “I work on the business side I’m not a techy; I couldn’t write a line of code if my life depended on it.” One of the gaming companies took flight and rapidly grew to employ about 40 game developers. The business was successfully trading globally and closing business deals with big entertainment companies.

Cover Story | Wil McLellan

weaknesses. “All of the businesses are learning from each other, we hold show and tell sessions to share project ideas and whenever there is an event on they are always networking.” “Plus two companies have expanded into America, moving people there while still retaining their base in Christchurch.”

Enterprise Precinct and Innovation Campus corner or Manchester and Tuam streets

Happy doesn’t even come close to how I felt, I was pretty stunned when they picked me. Now I’m excited about the upcoming trip and the chance to meet the other fellows and take this project to the next level.

But then the February 2011 earthquake hit devastating the flourishing business. “Our offices were destroyed and we were forced to squeeze into a warehouse which we shared with a number of other tech companies.” But out of adversity comes opportunity, and with a ‘half cup full’ mentality Wil was able to see the opportunities that the dire situation presented. “We saw a number of benefits from sharing office space. There were economic benefits from sharing rental costs, we learnt you don’t need to own toilets; you don’t need to own the boardroom or kitchen and when you pull your resources together you can end up with a space much nicer than on your own. “And we also discovered social benefits from sharing space with similar companies; we were able to collaborate on ideas and share advice. That was the inspiration for EPIC.” Excited by the idea of creating a collaborative, shared office space for innovative technology businesses and spurred on by the desperate need to move out of the cramped warehouse before the temporary lease expired, Wil and Colin got to work. Little did they know they had embarked on the toughest business challenge of their lives. “When we started it was me and Colin with a white board. We had no money, no land, no property development experience, no credibility in the property industry, no time because our companies needed this yesterday and a lot of stress, because we were very busy running our own businesses and our houses had been destroyed… but other than that everything was fine,” Wil jokes. Wil says it was a very difficult journey and they both quit at least once. “There were times when the stress of the whole situation just crushed us, we were exhausted and very depressed.”

Wil worked with the team at EPIC to refine his idea and created the 100 Heroes Innovation Bridge program. The program aims to link New Zealand world class innovators with US business networks and capital.

“We’ve had embassies through here, trade delegations, venture capitalists, banks and educational establishments we’ve created a genuine hub of activity.”

The programme would create a pool of 100 expert business mentors to help companies in both countries develop joint ventures and provide access to funding.

Eisenhower Fellowship

“EPIC shows that connecting entrepreneurs across New Zealand creates powerful business communities. The Innovation Bridge project is our chance to connect innovation hubs around the world and establish international communities which create opportunities for everyone,” Wil says.

the start and provided them with the land, 15 sponsorship companies including the Bank of New Zealand and the constant support from family and friends, Wil and Colin overcame the challenges.

Helping hand Google is renowned for its state of the art office spaces with inspiring physical environments. EPIC was lucky enough to have first hand input from the leaders at the search engine giant. “Google has been enormously supportive of both stage one and two. They’ve given us access to their property development teams, which helped us effectively design the environment to encourage collaboration.” Wil says Google’s valuable words of wisdom to achieve a top performing office weren’t as complicated as you might have thought. “They told us to have great coffee; coffee brings people together and encourages them to congregate in shared spaces and have unplanned meetings.” And thanks to a very generous donation from Google EPIC has a top of the line coffee machine.

Led by Thomas McCabe, a group of businessmen founded the private non-profit international leader exchange program, recognising President Eisenhower’s devotion to world peace. Its vision is to create a more peaceful, prosperous world by connecting people who work on issues of global interest. Sixty years on and the Eisenhower Fellowship has produced a high calibre of alumni, the list includes general Colin Powell, President George Bush Senior and Henry Kissinger. Now Wil is becoming one of the fellows of this prestigious award, steeped in a long rich history. The fellowships typically focus on education and world peace, but this year’s focus is innovation. Each Eisenhower applicant is required to devise an innovative project to develop while in America and pursue on return to their home country. Wil’s involvement with the Eisenhower Fellowship began completely unintentionally during a conversation with United States ambassador David Huebner over a glass of wine. He spoke to David about his experience with EPIC and his pipe dream to take the Epic model global. “From observing what was cool here and its successes I was beginning to see real value in this place. . . so we sat back and said why limit this to just Cantabrians, why not connect people across the world?”

The odds of Wil winning were very slight. In the 60 years the program has been running over 2,000 fellows have been created and only 19 of them had been from New Zealand. Wil was shocked when he found out he had been selected from the international pool of applicants. “Happy doesn’t even come close to how I felt, I was pretty stunned when they picked me. Now I’m excited about the upcoming trip and the chance to meet the other fellows and take this project to the next level.” The seven week Eisenhower Innovation Program, which begins late September, kicks off with activities and workshops facilitated by experts. The majority of the trip will be spent travelling around America meeting influential people. “The fellowship has asked me to create a list of people I want to meet to help my project come to fruition.” He says he looks forward to learning a lot while away; in particular he wants to “really understand the entrepreneur networks across America and start to solidify a way to create a sustainable network that can provide the resources that entrepreneurs need. “Then I’ve got to come back here and make it happen,” Wil says casually. But if it’s anything like his past project you can be guaranteed to see exciting things come out of the 100 Heroes Innovation Bridge.

Expediential success Wil and Colin originally set out to create a home for SME businesses, many of whom were severely affected by the quakes and encourage growth and life back into the city centre. But unintentionally the centre has created so much more resulting in wide spread growth and success. Many, if not all of the businesses based in the centre have experienced “real, tangible” improvements to their business. A lot of them have reported growth in their turnover with some even experiencing expediential growth of 100 percent since they moved in. Some businesses have also formed partnerships collaborating with each other, complimenting each other’s strengths and

EPIC, BNZ Lounge

But with the help from the Christchurch City Council, who got in behind the initiative from

”

“I already had a lot on my plate, but decided I might as well have a go.”

But it’s not just the tenants who are benefiting from EPIC, the public is too. The centre has held more than 200 public events and thousands of people have used the facility.

The Eisenhower Fellowship was created in 1953 in honour of President Dwight Eisenhower’s first birthday as the White House incumbent.

“

He says he thought nothing more about the conversation until he got an email from the embassy saying they really liked his idea and suggested he apply for the Eisenhower Fellowship. “I thought they had sent it to the wrong person,’ Wil says.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 29

News | Ideas

Guiding business to businesses “Instant gratification is not something business to business (B2B) marketers know much about,” says Sam Williams, partner at marketing consultancy Aamplify. So Sam’s launched the Streetwise Guide to Content Marketing website (www.streetwise. marketing) as a way of helping New Zealand B2B technology start-ups punch above their weight in the noisy world of online marketing. Williams uses the term ‘content marketing’ as shorthand to describe the full armoury of digital marketing tools businesses need to deploy to drive sales and lift brand visibility in an increasingly crowded market. Content marketing, he says, is essentially a cost effective way for start-ups to gain a voice in the online world. “There is a lot of buzz around content marketing in the consumer space, but if you are a tech start-up with a cloud-based product that needs to be marketed to the wider world, there is not a lot of guidance out there.” He says there is a fundamental difference between the business and consumer markets – one that has made it difficult for B2B businesses to take advantage of the new paradigm of online marketing.

“In the B2C (business to consumer) world the sales cycle can be very short. A vendor points a motivated buyer to their website and the process ends with a purchase.” As a result, he says, a lot of the marketing tools and advice that is out there, such as Adwords and search engine optimisation for example, which are geared towards achieving this type of instant gratification. “The main thing the B2C marketer has to do is ensure their brand cuts through the very cluttered world of online advertising. But it’s very different for B2B businesses.” Williams says the sales cycle for B2B business is typically months, not days, and as a result the type of information a business needs to communicate in order to convert a lead is more complex – and involved. He says B2B marketers don’t often have the advantage of pitching their products or services to motivated buyers. “Before you get to the point of trying to convert people’s intent into purchase, B2B marketers first have to do the hard yards of raising awareness and interest amongst their prospective buyers.” You can’t do the second before you do the first and that takes time. “You have to cultivate a relationship with your audience and help them scope the problem you are solving before you are able to rouse any purchasing intentions. “In some cases the audience may not know they even have a business problem that needs attention until you point it out.”

Take a break

Get Traction Fast is a five step guide available via the Streetwise Guide to Content Marketing website

It’s a long term game and Williams has created a ‘how to’ guide to help start-ups understand some of the fundamental steps they need to take to develop their brand, get market traction and generate momentum. The good news is content marketing is a cost effective approach, he says. “It can be over 50 percent cheaper for a start-up launching offshore than traditional above-theline marketing. “As a B2B start-up there is a lot to learn about content marketing and how to apply it to help achieve the best results. “Unfortunately, unlike some B2C companies, in the B2B space you can’t simply start a

While you are out of the office for your much needed break set an auto-responder message to your emails. This feature will send an automatic reply to all of your emails letting people know you’re on holiday until a specific date and when, if at all, you’ll be checking your emails. Tip – set your return date a few days later than your actual return so you have a couple of days to catch up.

Delegate and entrust

Are you worried to take a break from your business because you fear it will fall apart while you are gone? You may feel you’re critical to the daily operations of your business or you may just be too busy to take a break. There is never going to be the perfect time when there is absolutely nothing at all that needs your attention. So take advantage of the cooler months, when business typically slows down, to enjoy the break you need (and no doubt deserve) all while staying connected and in control of your business. A winter escape to a warm tropical island may be exactly what you need to reinvigorate and re-energise motivation for your business and taking the time off isn’t as hard as it may seem.

With a little organisation and planning to assist with the ‘need to be in two places at once’ quandary you should be able to go on holiday without a care in the world.

Email organisation Several weeks leading up to your holiday attach a note in your email signature notifying your customers and clients of your holiday dates so that they can make plans for your departure in advance. When you speak with these people remind them of your holiday plans so your absence doesn’t come as a shock to anyone.

30 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Facebook page and post videos of cute cats on your feed and expect that to create the type of connection you need with your key audience. “That said, one should never underestimate the marketing power of a cat.”

Breakfast seminar Aamplify is running a breakfast seminar on September 16 in Auckland called ‘Search Engine Marketing for B2B Leads and Sales’, which is basically all about content marketing and aligned to Streetwise Marketing. You can find out more information on the event landing page here: www.aamplify.co.nz/breakfast-seminar

But remember that you are actually on holiday, so limit interaction with your business to 1-2 pre-arranged meetings, so you can actually kick back and enjoy your break without rushing to check on work every five minutes.

Preparation is paramount

Write any newsletters, documents or blog content before you pack your bags. By preparing any written documents in advance you can ease a little stress off your shoulders. Most programs will automatically post or send electronic documents if you schedule the date in advance.

Handing over your business into the hands of your employees can be a tricky task for some business owners. But if you have trained your staff properly then your team should Set boundaries be well equipped to run things smoothly on Make it clear to your staff and most their own. importantly your clients what you will and will not be doing while you are away. This is Before you leave have a thorough preparation important for your clients so they know what meeting with your staff to discuss any extra services they can and can’t expect while you duties they may need to take on and to make are gone. it clear what you’re not comfortable with But it is just as important to have clear them handling. rules for yourself about what you will and Finally empower them to take charge; by won’t be doing on holiday. Self impose showing your employees you have confidence these boundaries to ensure you have a and trust in them they will have faith in relaxing break. themselves they can do a good job.

Keep in touch Unless you are going to a remote island untouched by the civilised world, then you should have the Internet even cruise ships have Internet access. Before you go on holiday organise a time with your staff to have a Skype meeting. The meeting will give you a chance to check in and talk over any questions or concerns your staff may have.

Step back

Letting go of your duties and handing over the reigns to someone else for a few days can be one of the hardest things for a SME business owner to do. But if you have taken a few of these measures or put some of your own tactics in place then your departure should be smooth sailing. Your business is not going to fall apart if you take a break so take a deep breathe, step back and let go.

News | Tactics

Tick tock Six quick and easy ways smart business owners use new technology to get an extra 60 minutes a day By Hamish Conway & Andy Carruthers

How often do you feel like you could do with more time in your day to get everything done? If you’re like most business owners we talk to, it’s everyday. You may or may not be keeping track of all the new great technology tools that can save you time. They form part of the picture. The real key is embracing new thinking with a willingness to change some old habits. Here’s six quick and easy ways to use technology to save at least 60 minutes of time a day.

1. Talk it. Don’t write it I don’t know many business owners who enjoy sitting down behind the computer and writing out meeting notes, or emailing people with updates. The reality is you can talk faster than you type. Using the Voice Memo on your smart phone is a great place to start. When you come out of a meeting, talk the key points from the meetings and the actions required. If you have an assistant, email or text the recording to them to schedule (and action) the next steps, file it, or type it up if you need it for later. If you have something you want to record that is a bit longer and it might be too big for an email or text, use the DropVox App. Once you hit the stop button it automatically uploads to the DropVox folder in Drop Box. From there you can access it or anyone invited to the folder. Try out recording notes after a meeting. It is liberating and you also ensure you don’t miss key points that get forgotten when you take a day, or three, to type up notes from a meeting. You can do the mind dump and then clear your head for what’s next.

2. Stop texting and listening to people’s voicemail messages How often do you spend more than a minute waiting for a phone to ring, then listening to the message before you can leave your message? Not only can it cost you money for the call, it costs you precious time. Instead, speed up your communication by using Voxer. Voxer is an app that allows you to do ‘Push to Talk’. Think a walkie talkie, but better. You basically open the app, find your contacts on Voxer (you can invite people – like your team members or suppliers), then you hit ‘hold and talk’. This is great for short voice messages or replying to a message you received. It’s faster than texting, but you can also text inside Voxer and send a photo with spoken comments.

3. Snap it and lock it in An underutilised app for business is the camera. You can use it as is, or use it with Evernote. Tag photos, add notes and comments, and share. It will be secured in the cloud forever, even if you lose your phone. Consider using your camera and Evernote for: Taking photos of whiteboards from meetings (again v’s writing/typing). Take photo of a business card and get it entered into your database by the team. Take photo of a receipt from lunch with a client. Photos of products, great advertisements, or great shots for a customer newsletter.

and others can do the same for you. No need to call in to check what’s happening or who’s where.

Photos of documents if you don’t have a scanner.

This one may appear basic. But ask yourself, are you really doing this part well? Get the Google Drive App on your phone, or the Microsoft Office Mobile App.

4. Have shorter meetings on your terms

6. Outsource for cents on the dollar

One of the biggest time sucks in a day can be meetings, particularly meetings in person. Use tools such as Skype (even on your phone) for group calls. This allows you to be working from a productive environment and save time travelling to meetings. Try this with your team if you are out and about. It saves time everyday for the whole team. You’ll also have a preferred work environment and time of day where you are super productive. For some, that might be at your home office in the morning through to 11am. Don’t mess that up by coming into the office for an 8.30 meeting. Have a 10 minute meeting from home on Skype and then get back to work. Also use screen sharing software for meetings where you want to see the same information on a computer. Look at Skype premium, join. me, or Go-To-Meeting as options.

5. Get organised and share on the fly If you and your team use Google Docs or Microsoft 365, then there are two big benefits: A) Sharing and searching for documents from anywhere. Get it set up right and it works a treat. No waiting till you get to the office to log on to the server, or digging into your emails to find an attachment. B) Sharing calendars. You can make appointments on the fly while you’re out

Here’s a summary of the tools and apps • Voice Memo (voice recording - should be on your phone) • DropVox (for voice recording - get from the apps tore) • DropBox (where voice recording goes. Get an account at dropbox.com) • Voxer (push to talk - short messages)

Consider outsourcing marketing work, IT, document creation etc. As you look at the list of everything you have to do, consider for a moment, who else apart from me could do this?

• Camera app

If you don’t have a team, or your team is already flat out, then look online to outsource projects overseas. Sure there’s things you won’t want to outsource, but you’ll be amazed at what you can do and at a fraction of the cost.

• Face Time (on your smart phone, or tablet)

Look on Odesk.com, Elance.com and Fiverr. com as a starting point. A couple of tips: cheapest isn’t always best; consider the skills required, English as a first language is often best. Look from a marketing point of view, IT, document creation, database compiling, getting your voice recordings and auctioning them, managing your email inbox and much more. It’s low risk and if it doesn’t work out then you can just cut them, but you do need to set them up to win. Once you get a good one make sure you look after them.

What now? Go through the six quick and easy ways to save yourself at least 60 minutes a day and commit to one thing you’ll do each day for the next seven days. Take 5-10 minutes to learn the app and use it. Once you get on the zone of learning new technology tools it becomes easier.

• Evernote (from app store, plus on your computer web browser) • Skype app on phone (from the app store)

• Skype Premium (screen sharing - upgrade paid version) • Join.me (screen sharing) • Go-to-Meeting (screen sharing and recording meetings - pricier, but rock solid) • Common Sense app (not really an app, but do use your common sense with keeping meetings to the point) • Google Docs (Gmail, calendar, Google drive) • Microsoft Office 365 • Elance.com • Odesk.com • Fiverr.com.

This guide is from Andy Carruthers at Crowe Horwath in Wellington. And, as an added bonus for Auckland Today business readers, they’ve put together three value-packed videos that help you put ‘New Time in your day, New Clients in your business and New Cash in your bank’. Visit www.neweconomy. co.nz/todaybis to get yours now.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 31

News | Lifestyles

Lifestyles By Davina Richards

Biting the dust

Vacuum cleaner If you’re anything like me, a good vacuum is a must in your household. The way it glides easily into corners and tight spaces, and how its powerful suction picks up dirt, dust and stuff you don’t even know what it is. Believe in the power of Dyson’s digital motor V6, the number one selling cordless vacuum in New Zealand. RRP: DC59 Multifloor $599 and DC59 Animal $649 Available from: www.dyson.co.nz

Smart little thing

Galaxy Tab S If you’re one of those people who leaves half a cup of coffee on the breakfast bench before shooting out the front door, notice a cheeky undone button on your shirt in a meeting, and carry a heavy briefcase vomiting paperwork, the new Galaxy Tab S is for you. For those constantly on the go, the Tab S is the package in the palm of your hands allowing you to access content on-demand wherever your feet rush you to. RRP: 8.5 inch 16GB $599. 10.5 inch 16GB $749. 10.5 inch 32GB $849 Available from: www.samsung.com/nz

Lookin’ good

Alba necklace When you walk past the ORE Jewellery flagship store in Christchurch your eyes immediately catch the sight of the eclectic range of stunning jewellery pieces. Sourced from around the world and stamped with an affordable price tag, ORE Jewellery is a magnet to those who love statement pieces and high quality handmade jewellery. Your outfit’s not complete without a dramatic necklace to tie it all together. RRP: $89.99 Available from: www.orejewellery.co.nz

‘Tis the season

Herb stand It’s not quite a pencil holder but it does have similarities. The Normann Copenhagen herb stand offers a home to organise your scissors and herbs in a neat and tidy fashion. Parts can be separated or used together to function as you please and the saucer ensures an even watering. Crisp white, clean lines and functional, it comes complete with a pair of stainless steel scissors so you can sprinkle fresh herbs on your meals like a Masterchef. RRP: $120 Available from: www.designdenmark.co.nz

32 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

News | Lifestyles

Lifestyles 5.

Sturdy and stylish

Hardwood bowls One of New Zealand’s newest online retail stores, Mister Mister has a beautiful range of luxury homewares and décor you couldn’t overlook even if you wanted to. One product that stands out is Nicole Porter’s range of stunning beech wood plates and bowls made from a single plank which is dried and transformed. Lovingly hand painted using acrylic paints and protected with a non-toxic film. Just looking at it makes you smile, which is why it makes the perfect wedding or housewarming gift for the stylish and eco-friendly home. RRP: $75 (diameter 7’’) Available from: www.mistermister.co.nz

Water safe

SteriPEN Ultra Ensuring you top up your water levels with clean and safe water is imperative when you’re hiking or travelling, so don’t let sickness strike you down while you’re having fun in the great outdoors. Using its UV light technology the SteriPEN purifies water in just 45 seconds, eliminating more than 99.9 percent of bacteria, viruses and protozoa which cause water-borne illness. RRP: $199.95 Available from: www.macpac.co.nz

Namaste

Mat strap Yogi’s who want to make that extra stretch by walking or cycling to yoga class may like to invest in a stylish mat strap. If you’re not carrying your yoga mat how about rolling up a picnic blanket or securing a camera tripod? Namaste. RRP: $70 Available from: www.etsy.com/uk/shop/DTBros

Rest easy

Tent Adventure can be demanding and exhausting, so when it comes to taking a break from the elements, this twoperson waterproof tent is the perfect retreat to rest up and restore your energy levels. It comes with multiple storage pockets, storage hammock and safety reflective details; built for outdoor people for life outdoors. RRP: $899.98 Available from: www.kathmandu.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 33

Property & Construction | Penny Homes

Homes made just the way you want Your home should reflect your individual and unique lifestyle, personality and needs. So why blend in with a cookie cutter home when you can stand out with a one-off Penny Home? Penny Homes traces its roots back to the heart of the North Island, in Taupo, where the company was established more than 16 years ago by John Penny, who was originally a structural engineer.

Eventually the land owner gave John exclusive rights to an over 500 section subdivision in Taupo, giving them a massive advantage.

The company grew rapidly, progressing from building three to four spec homes a John explains the company started by building year to, at its peak, more than 70 homes a spec homes in a reasonably tight market. “Our year in just Taupo alone. “The response was homes were unique and a little upbeat from overwhelming,” John says. what Taupo had seen historically. We found Penny Homes still calls Taupo home but has that they started to sell quite well so as they substantially developed since its early years. sold we purchased more land from a land After establishing itself as one of the leading owner in Taupo.” building companies in Taupo Penny Homes quickly spread throughout the country.

years, but what is the reason for its ongoing and continued success?

“In 1998 we started in Taupo and in 2006 we spread into Tauranga and then to Wellington where we have been for six years. Just after the February 2011 earthquake we moved to Christchurch and now we are establishing ourselves in Auckland too.”

John attributes his company’s growth to a number of factors including the 12 years they have spent as a Registered Master Builder and their numerous awards at the Registered Master Builders’ House of the Year Awards, both regionally and nationally, and their ability to deliver consistent quality time and time again.

John says a large factor for their growth can be attributed to their involvement with architectural designer James Thompson from JT Design. They began their relationship at the inception of the company, “We were both young at that stage and we have grown successfully together, we still use him today to do all our designs throughout the country.” Penny Homes has certainly captured a large portion of the market during the past 16

“Our designs are certainly different to anything else on the market. Out of all the homes we’ve built in Christchurch not one has been the same. “We are very good at identifying the strengths that a section has and getting the best out of it in regards to the orientation to the sun, what views it has to offer, indoor outdoor flow and the front facade in the sense of what the home looks like.”

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Our people, future-proofing the rebuild

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Property & Construction | Penny Homes

Quick to react Many businesses were hit hard by the global financial crisis, but Penny Homes took the initiative and acted quickly to avoid being affected. John explains they moved their target market from second home buyers to specialise in mid to high-end homes. “We found that in the recession the higher end of the market wasn’t affected as much as the first and second home buyers and our designs and business structure fitted well. “From a company perspective our skill set certainly improved because of the detail that was required to execute a high-spec home to a top level. We cover a range of the market today, but the middle to high-end market it still our strength.”

Christchurch debut After Christchurch’s devastating February 2011 earthquake, Penny Homes recognised the need for efficient housing companies in the region and were confident it could fit this bill. So without delay it made the move to Christchurch in June 2011, just five months after the major disaster. The move marked the opening of its first South Island branch and the start of a very productive time for the company, lending a much needed helping hand with the rebuild. John says it was important to him personally and the company as a whole to help out with the recovery. “As a family owned and operated housing company it was important for us to be able to offer our services and expertise to the people of Christchurch.” The company is now proudly supporting Canterbury with repair and rebuild work, and is excited to be part of the community rebuild.

The Canterbury building market is bursting with a huge number of building companies, so to help them stand out from the crowd Penny Homes have aligned themselves with some of the major insurance companies involved in the rebuild.

“

As a family owned and operated housing company it was important for us to be able to offer our services and expertise to the people of Christchurch.

”

- John Penny

“Initially we got involved with EQC as the new housing was slow to come on stream. Eventually we were made a Tier One builder with some of the major insurance companies, which was fantastic and the work has continued to flow in.” John says their new offerings to the market have been popular among customers throughout Christchurch. “Our versatile yet distinctive house designs have been popular throughout Christchurch, springing up all over town. “We understand that you want ‘to get on with it’ and appreciate the convenience of offering set house plans. At the same time we know that you don’t want to forgo individuality and flexibility. “Therefore, our team are always open to customisation when it comes to our set designs, or you can start to design your home from scratch using our design and build service.” Penny Homes understand Christchurch people have enough worries on their plate without the cost of their new build or rebuild adding to the stress of day to day life. That is why Penny Homes ensures all of its homes are competitively priced, so you can be secure in the knowledge you can comfortably afford the new home of your dreams. If you are looking for a building company that offers a unique fresh design, durable construction and competitive prices that are happy to take on repairs and new home rebuilds of any size, then Penny Homes is your go to Canterbury building company. >

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Property & Construction | Penny Homes

“

It has got a lot of lovely features that have been well thought out and delivered in a smart and effective way. - John Penny

New and improved city office Penny Homes have now moved on from its original Lichfield Street offices into brand new and improved premises on Fitzgerald Ave. The 400 square metre building is home to 17 staff ranging from administration, project management and also operations manager. John says half of the space has been fitted out with a showroom for customers to view standard products that Penny Homes offer with their homes. The displays include a full kitchen, all bathroom options, flooring, cladding and joinery, you name it they have it there. “Basically a whole range of products that you’d see in our homes so clients can see exactly what they are purchasing and what their new home is going to look like. “We want to offer our clients a one stop shop to make the process as easy as possible.”

Highly decorated As a proud member of Registered Master Builders they have entered the organisations House of the Year Awards many times. Their efforts have resulted in many awards both regionally and nationally that have built on their reputation as a quality building company. All homes entered into the Registered Master Builders House of the Year

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36 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Awards are assessed on a number of stringent criteria.

”

The awards are judged on workmanship, design, functionality, quality of finishing, attention to detail, structure, difficulty, energy efficiency, installation of materials, creation or retention of character and innovation of product use. This long list of judging criteria is certainly not an easy feat to stand up against, but Penny Homes have managed to wow the judges year on year winning a number of converted awards in the process. Awards • 2014 New Home Catergory $350,000 to $450,000 Gold Award • 2012 New Homes Category $250,000 to $350,000 Gold Award and National Finalist • 2012 New Homes Category $1 million to $2 million Silver Award • 2010 New Homes Category $6000,000 to $1 million Gold Award and National Finalist • 2010 New Homes Category $1 million to $2 million Gold Award and National Finalist • 2009 Showhome Category Gold Award and National Finalist • 2009 New Homes Category $250,000 to $350,000 National Award Winner.

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Property & Construction | Penny Homes

Building options Penny Homes understands that no two homes are the same. Every home they build is specifically designed and constructed with the client’s style, personality, functional requirements and specifications leading the design and build. With this in mind, Penny Homes offer a number of options to approach the building process. From custom designed homes, land and home packages and an endless choice of set designs, you can be guaranteed to find a building approach that suits your needs. John says his team of trusted project managers and builders pride themselves on offering building options to suit any style, budget and lifestyle need.

Land and home packages Penny Homes offer a turnkey land and home package that takes the stress, hassle and fear of the unknown out of the equation, because they have done all of the forward planning for you. Its variety of house and land packages offer distinctive style far from the traditional run of the mill packages which have been previously seen in subdivisions throughout the country. Land and home packages capture your lifestyle needs, but also respect the surroundings and theme of the subdivision, without compromising individuality style. John says it is Penny Homes’ priority to protect possible view shafts, optimise sun and courtyard spaces and complete a total landscape theme to make the most of your chosen location.

Fast facts • Penny Homes operate in the Central North Island, Wellington and Christchurch • Penny Homes have built more than 600 homes over its 16 year history • Their homes start at just $240,000 • Home and land packages start at $490,000 • Numerous accolades at the Registered Master Builders House Awards • Showroom and offices at Fitzgerald Ave, Christchurch.

or as little as you like and, provided they work with the section, you can personalise them to suit your specific requirements. Penny Homes’ set designs offer you the freedom to choose a style that is distinctive yet versatile, convenient yet practical.

Design and build Personally designing your new home, with the help and expertise of the Penny Homes team, gives you the ultimate freedom to create your dream home right down to every last little detail. From the standard family homes to architectural homes, they understand that your home will be a product of your personality, your needs and your budget. Architectural Design and Build homes are Penny Homes’ specialty and have won numerous awards acknowledging their expertise in this field.

Its land and home packages guarantee that you will maximise your investment so you can enjoy living in your beautiful home built to So you can rest assured when you select last a lifetime. to design and build with Penny Homes the skilled project managers will make the process easy. Set designs Penny Homes have done all of the hard work with its extensive range of set designs, now all you have to do is select your favourite.

You’ll be guided through the experience step by step while capturing the most important characteristics of your site, your ideas and your budget.

While its set designs make the building Penny Homes want to bring your ideas for process considerably quicker and easier, you your new home to life, giving you flexibility still have the freedom to customise your > preferred house design and floor plan as much and freedom of choice.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 37

Property & Construction | Penny Homes

On show Showhomes offer a glimpse of what your future home will look like and gives you confidence in the quality of work the building company produces. With this in mind the Penny Homes’ Canterbury showhome will leave you with absolute assured confidence that this is the building company for you. The housing company’s second Canterbury showhome, based on the showhome strip at Sovereign Palms at Sovereign Lakes Kaiapoi, was opened in March this year and has been a great success. Since opening to the public John says visitors have been blown away by the “gorgeous” 258 square metre home. “The public’s response has been amazing, really, really good, with lots of positive feedback. Our showhome is completely different to any of the other showhomes on the strip, and that is what Penny Homes deliver.” The showhome features unique design ideas to inspire and influence your future home.

Penny Homes Canterbury showhome, based at Sovereign Lakes Kaiapoi

“We like to use natural products to feature on our homes. On this showhome we have used black linea cladding while the stylish cedar surrounds, facings and garage door add real street appeal. The substantial amount of schist detailing both inside and outside the home really makes the home stand out.” One of the defining features of the home is the use of raking ceilings through the spine of the living areas. The ceiling height progresses from a three metre stud height up to 4.2 metres. By using contrasting stud heights throughout the home it creates different ambiences and moods. “It has got a lot of lovely features that have been well thought out and delivered in a smart and effective way.” Showhome details

Opening hours: Thursday’s: 12.00 – 4.00 pm Saturday and Sunday: 12:00pm - 4:00pm

• Land and home packages • Set design • Design and build.

Industry challenges John’s extensive history actively working in the building industry means he is up to date and involved with the major issues facing the ever changing industry. “Right now I am concerned about rising building costs. When you compare what a house is costing now to what people earn the difference is massive, also sections prices are going up.”

The Sovereign Lakes showhome kitchen

34 Bayliss Drive Sovereign Lakes Kaiapoi

Penny Homes offer a range of building approaches to suit any budget, style and lifestyle. Take you pick from the following options to approach the building process.

He says he is also thinking about the lack of sub-tradesmen available throughout the country.

because there may be a lack of sub-trades and tradies in the market to deliver the houses that will be in high demand.”

“Across the industry we haven’t been bringing on new apprentices. That’s a concern going forward over the next five to 10 years,

Finally he explains the Christchurch rebuild is an ongoing challenge for every building company in the region.

38 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“The building industry has gone from building 2,000 houses per year before the earthquakes to up to 6,000 houses this year. That increase has been a massive strain on everybody and created intense pressure in the labour market.”

Property & Construction | Penny Homes

“

A lot of customers are extremely smart and are doing their homework on building companies so when you get the green light from the client to say that they’ve chosen your company it is a very special moment.

”

- John Penny

Job satisfaction While John has been in charge of the company for more than 16 years, he says he still gets a buzz out of the job on a daily basis. In particular he enjoys meeting and greeting new clients and being invited to their site with a clean sheet of paper and endless possibilities and potential for their new home. “Your clients trust you it’s the biggest investment that they’ll ever make. “A lot of customers are extremely smart and are doing their homework on building companies, so when you get the green light from the client to say that they’ve chosen your company, it is a very special moment. “Building a home is an extremely rewarding process and I love delivering the keys at the end.”

Rapid growth seems to be in its blood because it shows no sign of stopping and as John explains his company’s upcoming goals for growth across the country. “Our next goal is getting cemented and set up in Auckland, we see Auckland as a huge opportunity in the sense of the amount of homes that are needed there. “Our model has always been based on securing land so right now my goal is to obtain land here in Auckland, which will allow us to offer land and home packages to our customers.” He says he understands all too well how competitive the Auckland market is, so they have to go above and beyond what other housing companies are offering.

Future moves

“We can’t just set up a showhome and expect to get customers when we are competing against every other building company. We need to supply a complete solution and land and home packages offer that solution.”

Penny Homes has a history of rapid company growth, something they have worked hard for and earned build by build.

While John is ready to tackle the Auckland market head-on, the company still has a solid base in its hometown Taupo.

He says their Taupo customers can be assured his team will continue to work hard to deliver quality homes and retain, if not grow, their market share. In Wellington, Penny Homes is about to open a 48 lot subdivision in Domett Street, which has already incurred a large amount of interest from its new Wellington customers. And of course in Christchurch Penny Homes is gearing up to build a substantial amount of homes during the coming years with a strong focus on delivering a quality, durable home in an efficient, timely manner.

“We are pretty excited about the next three to five years at Penny Homes for all areas of the company. “We want to make the most of this current building boom and position ourselves so when the market softens we are in good stead.”

Penny Homes 18 – 20 Fitzgerald Avenue Christchurch T (03) 366 5559 E enquiries@pennyhomes.co.nz www.pennyhomes.co.nz — Advertising Feature

The lounge in the Sovereign Lakes showhome

The Sovereign Lakes showhome bathroom

But he says just because they are one of the leading building companies in the region, it doesn’t mean they will begin to take a relaxed attitude.

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DEMOLITION - SITE WORKS - DRIVEWAYS www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 39

Property & Construction | Clean Sweep Awards - ToTal Property Services Canterbury

The ToTal cleaning solution Across the city, 365 days of the year, a team of unsung heroes clean, maintain and care for offices, hospitals, public buildings, classrooms and factories - allowing both industry and the public sector to occupy these spaces in comfort.

ToTal Christchurch made it to the finals with all six of its entries, in four categories and won two of them - the first for its cleaning of the Christchurch City Mission Offices, an office under 2,500 sqm and it took top honours in the Retail, Hospitality or Leisure Space under 15,000 sqm for Canterbury Museum. ToTal is the largest New Zealand owned cleaning company and Christchurch managing director, Paul Emery says his business winning two out of the four categories entered is testament to the Christchurch team punching well above its weight.

ToTal Christchurch made it to the finals with all six of its entries, in four categories, and won two of them - the first for its cleaning of the Christchurch City Mission Offices, an office under 2,500 sqm and it took top honours in the Retail, Hospitality or Leisure Space under 15,000 sqm for Canterbury Museum

This is vital work and the team at ToTal Property Services Canterbury (ToTal) take it very seriously - so seriously that they received the most finalists in the recent Clean Sweep Awards which celebrates excellence in the building services industry.

“Awards like these are a good chance to be measured against others in the industry not just for your cleaning services, but across your whole business. “They look at your entire business, from health and safety, best practice, risk management and innovation, through to staff attitude and appearance,” explains Emery. “We are the largest locally owned cleaning company working in Christchurch and we put our success down to our focus on effective supervision and quality control.” The company’s strongest competition comes from multi-nationals and Emery says the

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40 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

entire team is proud to have its dedication and hard work recognised nationally.

managers went to the building and emptied every vacuum bag to make sure it hadn’t been sucked up.”

Attention to detail

Emery says this level of service and attention to detail is common. “We really value our staff, pay above the award rate and ensure they are well trained, supervised and looking smart.”

Cleaning can be a thankless task, but it is essential to society and business. “It can be hard, because so much of what we do goes unseen. If you have 100 rubbish bins to empty in a building and one gets missed you will only hear about that one.” This said, the ToTal way goes above and beyond what you might expect of a cleaning company. Emery recounts a recent story of a women calling from a corporate office saying she had lost a necklace that was sentimentally valuable to her. She simply wanted the cleaners to be aware and on the lookout. “However, unasked, one of our team

The largest part of the company’s success is attributed to its quality auditing. “We take cleaning seriously - it’s a professional career for many of our staff. “Their skill and expertise, combined with our systems and quality standards, mean our clients are getting the best of the best.” Emery says this is reflected in the large number of contracts they have retained for many years - among then the Canterbury Museum, numerous schools, Spark and Air New Zealand.

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Property & Construction | Clean Sweep Awards - ToTal Property Services Canterbury

National advantage, local commitment Accurate and robust systems underpin all of ToTal’s activity. “The managing and monitoring of all our work is handled by our professional and friendly 24 hour call centre and our custom built customer relationship management (CRM) system. “This allows us and our clients to track any job, add notes and understand every step of every project,” Emery says. The reporting system is also designed to manage all service requests around quality, health and safety, environmental, training and risk. “Being part of the larger, national organisation means our clients get all the benefits of a national organisation, like our sophisticated and simple CRM and the bulk purchasing benefits, but they are dealing with the local owners and staff - the people who are at the coal face, understand the local environment and are committed to supporting Canterbury.” Emery talks about the regular and personal contacts his management team has with all clients. “We have monthly quality control meetings onsite and we are available at any time.”

The professionalism of the team also contributes to its success and every team member is always on the alert. Emery says everyone is committed to identifying potential problems before they actually do become an issue. “We don’t want our clients spending their time fighting fires, we want to eliminate problems and make our service as seamless and effective as possible for them.”

The total package in repair and maintenance ToTal’s move into property and grounds maintenance, trades and repair work, was a natural extension of the cleaning. “It just makes sense - if we are looking after the cleaning in a building, we are there and can re-hang a door, put up a whiteboard, fix a leaky tap, repaint a room, make electrical additions or maintain the exterior garden and lawn areas of the building.” Working across the South Island, ToTal’s tradesmen are busy on projects, both reactive

In addition to all commercial cleaning services, ToTal Property Services maintenance services include: • General cleaning • Window cleaning • Builders cleans

“

We take cleaning seriously - it’s a professional career for many of our staff. Their skill and expertise combined with our systems and quality standards mean our clients are getting the best of the best. - ToTal Property Services Canterbury, managing director, Paul Emery

”

• Rubbish removal • Specialised carpet cleaning • Waste recycling and waste audits • Specialist floor maintenance • Painting - interior and exterior • Day cleaner • Provision of hygienic supplies • Pest control • Building maintenance and repair • Grounds maintenance - mowing, gardening • Handyman services • All trades services - plumbing, electrical, roofing, etc • Caretaking services • Total washroom services • Supply of consumables • Graffiti removal.

Working across the South Island, ToTal’s tradesmen are busy on projects, both reactive and planned preventative maintenance, be it chimney sweeping to re-painting Ministry of Educations houses, fitting showers or roofing repairs

After each visit a quality audit report is completed and entered into the CRM. Over time this allows both ToTal’s management and the client to track trends and establish benchmarks.

Total property service - inside and out

and planned preventative maintenance, be it chimney sweeping, to re-painting Ministry of Educations houses, fitting showers or roofing repairs. “We have truly become a one stop shop for our clients. Anything at all they need done related to their property - we can make happen. “That removes the need for them to organise and manage multiple contractors. With one conversation or job request, we take care of all the detail,” Emery adds. The advent of the additional services was totally customer driven. “Being part of a larger organisation gives us access to many resources, but being locally owned means we can make decisions fast, implement them immediately and provide a very personalised service to every client.” >

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 41

Property & Construction | Clean Sweep Awards - ToTal Property Services Canterbury Professional relationships

Environmental management

ToTal Property Services Canterbury would like to thank the following companies for their support:

ToTal Property Services Canterbury is committed to superior environment management.

• Alsco • Fumacare • Christchurch Cleaning Supplies • Clark Boyce Lawyers • Enterprise Recruitment.

“It also means the cleaners in a business become part of the team, they can be more proactive through the communication which naturally occurs. “For example - if the boardroom is about to be host to an important meeting - the cleaner can pop in and ensure it is up to standard.” Technology now means there are ultra silent vacuums and there are cleaning agents that are not strong smelling or offensive in any way. For companies still utilising night time cleaning, Emery says the ToTal process is to team clean.

Commercial cleaning trends ToTal’s commitment to environmentally friendly practices, health and safety, staff welfare and robust services is not only reflected in its recent wins at the Building Services Contractors Clean Sweep Awards, but in its ACC Workplace Safety Management Practices Tertiary level accreditation. This is the highest commitment a company can show to the wellbeing of its staff, customers, suppliers and visitors. ToTal has been recognised as always adhering to best practice and a commitment to continuous improvement in workplace health and safety. Additionally, the in-house Total Quality Management processes are part of the standards and cultural approach of ToTal. Acceptable performance levels for every task the company performs are set out and staff are fully aware of the criteria required to uphold the high standards required of them.

“We empower our front line staff to take responsibility for their own actions. Management then approaches this in a supportive manner and we provide positive recognition for a job well done.”

Cleaning trends Like every industry, commercial cleaning has its trends and innovations, and ToTal is committed to being at the forefront of these. Across Europe, Emery says that more than 50 percent of corporate cleaning is now done predominately in the daytime - an emerging trend that Kiwi companies are slowly latching onto. The driving force behind this switch comes from building managers who are looking to reduce costs, in particular the money spent on utilities such as electricity. When lights are no longer left on at night for cleaning crews, Emery says organisations can save a significant amount of money.

“Instead of the team being spread across a building, they work as a team, one floor at a time, turning off lights and moving on, again saving on power and increasing security for our staff.” This vertical, space by space, approach has proved itself superior to the traditional multi floor approach to cleaning a building.

Good bacteria the science of cleaning Traditionally, cleaning effectiveness was measured by “if it looks and smells clean, it’s probably clean”. But with growing public awareness of airborne and invisible pathogens - or bad bacteria - cleaning companies are turning to science for superior solutions. ToTal offers its clients an alternative to harsh chemical disinfectants. Probiotics in Progress (PIP) products use micro-organisms to manage microbial environments. The use of these cleaning products introduces a stable and healthy microbial community to surfaces, lowering the risk of problems with pathogens, the bacteria that cause sickness and disease.

Environmental stewardship - with no environmental incidents and the highest level of appropriate safety certification, ToTal is committed to the highest level of green practices. Energy conservation - all process are shaped to ensure work is completed in the most energy efficient way possible. Waste minimisation and recycling - numerous proactive recycling and minimisation initiatives are used in the business and this service is also offered to clients, helping them to recycle and reduce waste in their own activities. Sustainability - best practices, carefully considered and selected product use and adherence to Environmental Choice New Zealand standards are used company wide. PIP food grade bacteria strains, combined with enzymes, produce particularly effective solutions to combat pathogenic bacteria. No longer is a totally sterile environment desirable using harsh chemically based disinfectants and biocides. The goal is a stable and healthy microbial community where a balance is maintained with the ever presence of “good bacteria” working against the pathogenic bacteria that cause harm. ToTal can provide a cleaning programme using all or some of the PIP products on your sites. "We can provide you with an environment where harmful bacteria struggle to survive," Emery adds. “This is quite a revolutionary and an alternative approach to traditional cleaning procedures and one that people find a bit difficult to wrap their head around, but globally it’s proving itself a very effective way to create the cleanest and healthiest environments.” ToTal Property Services Canterbury 11 Vulcan Place Christchurch T (03) 338 9056 E csc@totalcanterbury.co.nz www.totalcanterbury.co.nz — Advertising Feature

COMMERCIAL CLEANING & BUILDING MAINTENANCE SERVICES • • • • • • 42 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

General Commercial Cleaning Builders Cleans Building Maintenance & Repairs Carpet & Furniture Cleaning Window Cleaning Specialist Floor Maintenance

For competitive quotes call us on (03) 338 9056 or email csc@totalcanterbury.co.nz

www.totalcanterbury.co.nz ToTal Service

ToTal Commitment

Property & Construction | Clean Sweep Awards - ISS Facility Services

ISS cleans up Commercial cleaning is not a trivial matter - it’s an essential service and one that the team at ISS Facility Services are receiving formal NZQA recognition for. Christchurch branch manager, Rebecca Mason says by ensuring all staff have the opportunity to complete nationally recognised training in cleaning and caretaking, the level of service delivered to the client is far greater. “By investing back into our staff, we are recognising what they do has tremendous value, it’s a real skill that adds so much benefit to the businesses we clean for.” Founded in 1901, ISS Facility Services is one of the world’s largest facility services companies with annual sales in excess of $16 billion and more than 535,000 employees worldwide. ISS made its debut into New Zealand in 2005 and is now one of the largest facility service companies in the country. The organisation enjoys the advantages of being able to draw on its parent’s substantial international resources, expertise and experience. This places ISS at the leading edge of global methodologies, technology and systems – all of which translate directly into top quality service at international best practices. Mason says it is the close and proactive relationship her team forges with all its clients that allows it to add extra value into all its contracts. “We get to know people and their business and then ask the questions about what other services or areas we might be able to assist them with.” In the mix of services offered by ISS in Christchurch is building and grounds maintenance, window cleaning and car park cleaning services. Brining cleaning excellence and innovation into the business is a dedicated role for one team member. “We have someone continually looking for new ways to do things, the very best products and other innovations that help us maintain that extra edge ISS is known for.” With more than 1,600 staff in New Zealand, with around 130 of them in Christchurch, ISS takes its role and responsibility as a large employer seriously. “By embedding our values and principles into our entire operations, our people are empowered, engaged and have a sense of

purpose. Understanding the “bigger picture”, our staff do not see themselves as just cleaning a building, but providing a clean, safe and pleasurable space for Kiwis to work and play in,” adds Mason. ISS’ achievement in the 2014 Clean Sweep awards reflects the hard work and dedication of all ISS staff, says Caroline Jonker, Auckland divisional manager retail. “Winning this award for Sylvia Park, New Zealand’s largest shopping centre, provides further surety to our clients that ISS’ delivers on the promises we make and that the integral core values our business is guided upon are leading us well on our way to obtaining our global vision of becoming the world’s greatest service organisation,” Jonker adds. In addition to being named the No.1 Global Outsourcing Provider for the second year in a row, the growing success of ISS New Zealand has earned them the title of ‘New Zealand Facilities Management Company of the Year’ at the annual Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards 2014.

Clean Sweep Awards ISS Facility Services Auckland took the honours in the Retail, Hospitality or Leisure Space over 15,000 sqm category for Sylvia Park Shopping Centre in the recent Building Service Contractors Clean Sweep Awards. Jonathan Douglas, Sylvia Park manager, says he is delighted that ISS won this award for its services to the shopping centre. “It is a fitting reward to all the hard work and dedication the cleaning team put in to help make Sylvia Park a great place to shop. Fast ISS facts

• ISS is one of the world’s largest

facility service groups, founded in Denmark 1901

• ISS entered the New Zealand marketplace in 2005

• It is now one of the leading facility services providers in New Zealand with total national coverage

• ISS operates in 53 countries • Worldwide, ISS has more than 530,000 employees.

Why ISS?

The people

Expertise with accountability

Being a leader in service delivery, processes and technology is a big attraction to hiring and retaining the most talented people. ISS can often offer these experiences on a more consistent basis to their employees than most organisations.

ISS has single service expertise in cleaning, property and security services. The benefit of an integrated contract is that you gain this expertise, yet with just one single point of accountability. And if you prefer, just one centralised invoice and reporting. This can significantly reduce administration, yet still provide you with service excellence and the ability to increase efficiencies, which only comes from the experts.

Increased efficiency and better value By bundling services ISS is to reduce overheads and allocate resources more efficiently. The synergy comes from the ability to integrate services and optimise delivery systems. ISS teams can be multi-skilled to highlight required services and communicate effectively to pro-actively improve your facility. For example, ISS security officers can pick up litter and cleaners can highlight plumbing maintenance required - working as one team means a more effective solution for you.

For this reason, ISS has been able to attract a very skilled workforce; something difficult to reproduce in other organisations. As a company, ISS endeavours to realise each employees’ full potential which generally improves quality and productivity, as well as enhancing employee job satisfaction and loyalty. We engage with them, and explain your vision, so that they are given a sense of purpose and pride in order to deliver the best possible service.

ISS Facilities Services 413 St Asaph Street Linwood Christchurch T (03) 365 6858 www.nz.issworld.com — Advertising Feature

Facility Management Solutions within the Otago & Southland Regions Commercial Contract Cleaning Services In-House Security Guards Hostess and Custodial Personnel Property Maintenance and Car Park Management Complete Wash Room Supplies and Consumables

NZ owned and operated

House of Hygiene Services is proud to have a partnership with Facility Services for Otago and Southland. Congratulations to ISS on their over 15,000m2 for Sylvia Park shopping Centre AWARD.

0800 474 599 | www.houseofhygiene.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 43

Property Construction | Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete

Cutting edge process created for post-quake rebuild work Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete Limited exciting new Ready Raft pod flooring system is offering an innovative and stable solution for post-earthquake Christchurch. The system provides Cantabrians with the tools and resources to rebuild their homes with confidence, secure in the knowledge everything has been done to ensure their homes remain safe and secure for years to come.

New raft flooring system

Designed to meet the unique needs of the Canterbury market, the Ready Raft pod flooring system is a cutting edge process created for use on TC1 and TC2 land and on TC3 as part of an engineered solution. Developed in accordance with the latest specifications and regulatory requirements, it’s quicker and easier to install than

Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete business development and marketing manager, James Eckersley says the Ready Raft pod flooring system is new opportunity for the company and offers a high quality foundation floor at a competitive price. “We’ve been developing our Ready Raft system for a number of months now and have already completed a significant number of floors to date. Existing and new customers have come back and said it’s very cost-effective and simple system to use. And it’s pretty quick to produce,” he says.

Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete is an innovator in the concrete industry

Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete developed the new pod flooring system in response to the Canterbury earthquakes, which rendered many traditional foundations useless in many areas of Christchurch.

standard slabs and provides the most stable building platform possible.

“A reinforced slab is built on a gravel raft and I’m expecting good demand for it. It’s an extension of what we’re doing and we can use our contracting division to do all the ground work and excavation for it.”

One of Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete’s three large concrete processing plants in the city

A great tool to rebuild Canterbury • Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete Ltd’s Ready Raft pod flooring system product is an innovative, cost-effective TC1 and TC2 foundation solution that offers strength, durability and functionality

44 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

applied uniformly over the entire area of interconnected polystyrene pods, assisting uplift restraint to prevent concrete flowing under the pods

• Ready Raft may also be used as an integral part of a specifically engineered foundation solution in TC3

• The Ready Raft pod flooring system incorporates customised details to allow building services, including waste pipes, water, power and phone services, to be integrated into the slab construction

• Polystyrene pods are connected together to form a single unit within the perimeter boxing of the foundation. The weight of the reinforcing steel is

• Every Ready Raft foundation/floor is individually designed by engineers to suit onsite ground conditions and is of a fast, efficient and practical construction.

Property Construction | Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete

Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete’s operation includes: • Three concrete manufacturing plants two in Belfast and one in Hornby • A North Canterbury concrete division in Waipara • A fleet of 45 trucks and mini tankers, which have a production capacity of more than 200 cubic metres per hour • Three land-based quarries in Amberley, Woodend and Yaldhurst • Three sand and aggregate manufacturing plants at Belfast, Woodend and Amberley • Resource consents to extract from the Waipara, Ashley, Waimakariri and Selwyn rivers • A mobile crushing plant that increases the company’s crushing capacity and allows crushing closer to the delivery point • Trade yards at Hornby, Belfast and Woodend, which sell a variety of products. <

Part of Christchurch Ready Mix concrete’s impressive fleet

Servicing Canterbury’s concrete needs More than 50 years in the concrete industry has seen Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete develop into a leading provider to Canterbury’s building sector.

products, including ready mix concrete in any quantity carried in one of its 45 mixer trucks. With manufacturing plants in Belfast and Hornby, the company is well positioned to supply concrete to any building site or project in the city.

The company, which was formed in 1962, operates several divisions that work together to meet the diverse needs of its broad client base.

Three land-based quarries in Amberley, Woodend and Yaldhurst produce a large range of specialist sands, while the Yaldhurst quarry is also consented for a clean-fill operation.

Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete is an innovator in the concrete industry and was one of the first company’s in New Zealand to supply premixed concrete to building sites.

Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete runs a civil contracting team which undertakes small to medium sized projects such as subdivisions, car parks, driveways, building site preparation, horse arenas, retaining walls and earthquake repair works throughout Canterbury.

The company, which employs 168 staff, offers a range of concrete services and

Trade yards operate at Hornby, Belfast and Woodend, selling sand, cement, brick ties, additives, tooling and other associated products. Landscape and gardening supplies are also available at the Woodend site. Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete employs its own mechanics, technicians and engineers to service its fleet of more than 200 mobile and fixed plant items. The company also builds and fabricates new plant items when improvements or upgrades are required.

The history of ready mix concrete Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete was one of the first New Zealand businesses to supply ready mix concrete.

Roy Grant, the son of company founder RG Grant, first saw ready mix concrete being delivered in trucks during a visit to the United States in the early 1960s. Back in Canterbury he quickly developed the process and in November 1962, Ready Mix Concrete Limited was incorporated as a subsidiary of RG Grant’s company, Transport North Canterbury Limited. A few months later, the first loads of concrete were batched from the Empire Road, Belfast site, which is still the company’s main operating base today. The development of ready mix concrete delivered a valuable solution to the construction industry, which was quick to take up the new product. >

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 45

Property Construction | Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete

Civil contracting services Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete’s contracting and aggregate divisions are helping the company offer a comprehensive service to customers. The company provides a range of civil contracting services throughout the Canterbury region, including commercial site works, residential and lifestyle works and horse arenas. The contracting division has established a strong reputation for the quality of its work. Its services sit comfortably alongside the business’s core operations and have been in strong demand since the earthquakes. The civil contracting division also has a huge range of equipment available for hire.

Residential and lifestyle site works Civil contracting services for residential works include: • Lifestyle block developments • Residential subdivisions • Residential foundations • Roads • Footpaths • Asphalt and concrete driveways • Patios • Access ways. Horse arenas The civil contracting division specialise in producing high quality horse arenas, such as the Mclean’s Island Equestrian Centre.

Its services include:

Plant and equipment

Commercial site works

Plant and equipment is available to hire with an experienced operator: • Excavators for residential and commercial use (1.7 tonne – 20 tonne)

• General excavation

• Vibrating rollers

• Foundations

• Motor graders

• Compacting hard fill

• Water carts

• Kerbs, channels and hot mixing

• Transporters

• Car parks

• Tip trucks

• Landscaping.

• A licensed clean-fill dump.

• Wheel loaders

Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete has developed the new Ready Raft pod flooring system in response to the Canterbury earthquakes

Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete provides all aspects of civil contracting for commercial developments of any size, including:

Busy aggregates operation Canterbury Aggregates provides a large amount of sands and aggregates throughout Canterbury for a range of purposes. The business, which is a division of Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete, operates from three land-based quarries and various local rivers extracting raw materials for processing. The company undertakes extensive rehabilitation on sites during extraction, creating lakes and planting flora to attract native bird life species.

Customers can collect their sand or aggregate product from Canterbury Aggregates’ sites, or have it delivered by its transport fleet. The company also provide mobile onsite screening of soils and/or product requiring blending; crushing of aggregates for driveways, roading basecourse and chip. Canterbury Aggregates offers the service of specialised bulk material and equipment transport, including piloting of overdimensional loads.

A full range of specialty sands and aggregates are produced. Crushed aggregates are used for roading, driveways, house foundations, drainage, site works, pipe haunching and specific blends are made to specification as requested. Washed round aggregates are used for landscaping, decorative, septic tanks, soakpits, gabion baskets and concrete aggregate premix (builder’s mix). Canterbury Aggregates manufactures sand to specifications for a wide range of applications, including industry, building and recreation applications.

46 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Christchurch Ready Mix Concrete Limited 10 Empire Road Belfast Christchurch T (03) 323 8149 E info@chch-readymix.co.nz www.chch-readymix.co.nz — Advertising Feature

& WE ARE DEDICATED TO THE SAFETY OF YOUR STAFF, CONTRACTORS AND THE PUBLIC.

So, as a local company servicing Cantabrians in the re-build of Christchurch, we are committed to the safety of your staff. And when you deal with us you’re dealing with the owner, which means you receive a superior and speedy service – every time. Our extensive construction knowledge ensures we understand local compliance issues and we realise how critical your deadlines are and we guarantee to be on time – check out our Secureguarantee.

Secureguarantee • We guarantee to beat any written quote by 10% • We guarantee to return all quotes within 48 hours otherwise you will receive the first week rental FREE of charge! * Terms and conditions apply to the Secureguarantee

By using Securefence and Securescaffold you can rest assured that your objectives of safety, cost and meeting deadlines are of paramount importance. All our equipment is rigorously tested to the highest of standards. Securescaffold covers all NEW Labour Department working height requirements providing fall protection for builders, painters, home handyman and roofers on new and existing home constructions.

“

Ask your builder if he’s using Securefence & Securescaffold – it will save you money.

“

With more than 20 years’ experience in the construction sector we are well aware of the needs of the industry. This means we realise how important the safety of your best asset – your staff – is to you and your company’s future.

P: 0800 66 00 22 | F: 0800 55 50 54 www.securefence.co.nz | www.securescaffold.co.nz 47b Birmingham Drive, Middleton, PO Box 1879, Christchurch 8140, NZ

Property Construction | Takahe Construction

Building the best there is Large enough to handle any building project yet small enough to provide a personal touch Takahe Construction takes your plans all the way to the top when it comes to residential high-end architecture. Christchurch based Takahe Construction provides specialist building, renovation and construction services throughout the Canterbury region. If you’re seeking high quality craftsmanship backed up with vast industry knowledge and extreme attention to detail, Takahe Construction should be your first point of call. Owners Tim Forman and Calvin Cocks are best friends who have formed a solid relationship since they were five years old. They each completed their building apprenticeship through the same master builder, then went on to start their own successful building companies, and are now reunited at the helm of Takahe Construction.

“

We have worked extremely hard to nurture these relationships to provide the best possible results for our clients.

”

An Akaroa gem One of Takahe Construction’s projects was a luxury holiday home on the foreshore in Akaroa, completed in 2012 which picked up well-deserved gold and silver awards. “The home is an architectural masterpiece created by MAP (Modern Architectural Partners); the diversity of the location, extreme conditions, boundary to boundary excavations, constant dewatering of the site due to the proximity of the sea and with three levels of engineered insitu-concrete made this project one of a kind. The client expected the best, and that’s what we delivered,” Tim says. A high standard of work ethic is paramount and the team believes that quality and finish should not be compromised by money and timeline. “We work with clients that are realistic and expect the best and can appreciate that this is always foremost our work ethic.”

Tim says it wasn’t a hard decision when the opportunity arose to work together again and established Takahe Construction in April 2010. The rest as they say is history. “We respect each other’s abilities and feel we have the right blend to make our projects exciting and rewarding for all involved,” Tim says.

Because of this shared vision the company’s 25 staff go out of their way for their clients to produce gold medal award winning homes. “We have an energetic and passionate approach to developing the skills and experience of our staff and most recently one of our original apprentices constructed the 2014 House of the Year $1-2million category winning home with Takahe. We encourage our staff to strive for perfection and not relinquish on quality.”

“Our belief when incorporating Takahe four years ago was that we needed to have a point of difference in a market that is saturated with building companies. We set about this by building relationships with some of the best architects in Christchurch whom design homes for their high profile, professional clients.”

Tim says one of the biggest challenges they face is aligning themselves with likeminded subcontractors who deliver the same level of quality and work ethics. “We have worked extremely hard to nurture these relationships to provide the best possible results for our clients.”

- TIM FORMAN

Specialists in architectural houses and mid-sized commercial projects

Proud to support Takahe Construction 27a Birmingham Drive, Christchurch | 03 963 3950 | neil@thinksteel.co.nz

thinksteel.co.nz 48 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Property Construction | Takahe Construction

“

Our belief when incorporating Takahe four years ago was that we needed to have a point of difference in a market that is saturated with building companies. We set about this by building relationships with some the best architects in Christchurch whom design homes for their high profile, professional clients.

”

- TIM FORMAN

House of the Year 2014 The company has been recognised once again for its quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail, winning a gold award for its two-storey Fendalton home at the 2014 House of the Year competition in the $1-2million category. Situated on an 850sqm site, the home which includes an outdoor fireplace, expansive Vitex deck, swimming pool, in-ground spa pool and purpose built BBQ, blends the owner’s lifestyle with the property’s natural setting. The house has an indoor outdoor flow and boasts notable features including five different species of timber in various finishes including Smoked Oak cabinetry, varying textual finishes including French Oak, plush carpet and ceramic tiling, full height windows, Mongolian black flamed granite tiles, and a back to back Hansgrohe Raindance shower area, with the home receiving abundant sunshine in all areas throughout the day. The home celebrates thought-out, smart design while seamlessly incorporating privacy along with space to entertain, and a sense of tranquillity with the Wairarapa stream just metres away. Everything from its quality fittings and fixtures, to its superior interior and exterior design highlights why this home is worthy of a gold award.

More winning work on the way But just because Takahe’s claimed gold doesn’t mean they stop there. The company recently completed two more homes that will be entered into the 2015 House of the Year competition $1-2million category, and six projects are currently under construction each between $1-3million. The team’s ambition is to be the supreme award winner $1-2million 2015. Since Takahe Construction’s inception it has made a grand, lasting impression and reputable reputation that clients can trust. This is likely to have stemmed from the fact that the team listen to their clients to fully understand their requirements, as well as working closely with architects. Want the best out of your site? Look no further.

Takahe Construction would like to thank the following: “Placemakers Riccarton have supported Takahe extremely well. They have repeatedly shown the mutual respect we have for one another and continue to assist Takahe in delivering exceptional homes,” Tim says. “Clive Barrington has given Takahe the benchmark for success. We have always looked up to what Clive has achieved in the high-end architectural market and strive to follow in his footsteps. “All of our staff. They are part of the Takahe journey. They take pride and give passion to all that we ask and deliver results for our clients that we are extremely proud of. We are very excited at being able to provide an environment for our staff that pushes them to want to succeed.”

Awards: • 2012 Gold award for the $1-2million category House of the Year competition • 2012 Silver award for $1-2million sustainable homes category House of the Year competition • 2014 Gold award and category winner for $1-2million House of the Year competition

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 49

Property & Construction | Element 17

Delivering the wow factor When function and beauty meet to create spaces of perfect proportion, intrigue and interest, you have achieved great interior design. Taking inanimate café, restaurant, retail and commercial spaces and shaping them to meet the purposes of Christchurch businesses is more than just a business for Element 17 - it’s a passion. The interior design company, led by Christchurch born industrial designer, Steve Rosling is a team of five creative dynamos supported by an administrative team who are together transforming the internal spaces of old and new buildings into contemporary, ready to use premises that have the wow factor.

Rosling describes his services as not just being that of an interior designer. “We are not architecture and we are not just design. We are not a project management company or just a consultancy - but we do all of this… and more. “We work collaboratively with our clients in as much capacity as they require. But, for them (the client), the best value is always going to be when we work with them through the whole project, as a part of

In short, Rosling describes himself as a solution provider. “You have a space; we will find the right solution.” He uses phrases like ‘working diligently and honestly’ and ‘achieving the best possible outcomes’ and you can’t help but hear the passion and authenticity in his voice. “We can sit on your shoulder and work on your behalf to create stunning interior spaces.” This can include initial advice on a location and whether the space can be utilised to create the atmosphere required through the design, consenting, soft and hard furnishing selection, and finishes to the flow of space, lighting and heating. “If a client is a base tenant in a new build and looking at a long term lease, we can work with the building owner or construction manager to look at things like lighting. “If you install LEDs during the build, or add in daylight harvesting and make wise choices about ventilation and heating, or grey water recovery, you can save yourself a tremendous amount of money over the years of your lease.” With a burgeoning number of hospitality, retail and office space opening up around Christchurch, Rosling says smart business owners are taking the opportunity to create welcoming spaces; spaces where its employees want to be and of course, inviting areas for its customers or clients.

Coffee Culture Christchurch International Airport: The existing Coffee Culture at Christchurch International Airport needed areas for a variety of customers – groups, individual travellers, families and businessmen. A selection of wall finishes, fabrics and flooring was used to achieve this. Natural recycled Matai timber is a predominant and constant finish throughout. This is beautifully set against rich brown deep-buttoned banquettes, gold wallpaper bulkheads, decorative ottomans and mild steel shelves. The overall design exhibits a clever mix of styles and textures and shows a clear design progression of the Coffee Culture brand.

Be it a high-end law office, an individual retailer or the local coffee shop, Element 17 is not only giving each place a unique edge in a ever demanding market - they are saving people time, money and frustration in the process.

their team, to ensure they get the very best outcome from their space.”

“In a restaurant one third of the appeal is the décor, one third the food, and the final third, the service.” Rosling believes a dollar put into clever and careful design at the beginning should return many dollars back to the client.

understand the psychological ways consumers react to spaces, they know how and where to source quality products fit for the purpose.

Beautiful and functional design does not have to cost a lot. Not only does the team

They know all the local legislation and the most direct and straight forward way to meet

all consenting requirements. This can also be a large saving - not just in time but in real dollars… and in Christchurch, we all know anything to do with property equals stress Element 17 help you cut through all this.

“Excitement with Style” We provide complete, end to end services from advice to customers by our interior designers, to tile selection in our showroom, to installation by our own team of experienced tilers. Wonderful range of tile and timber brands from around the world Exclusive suppliers of RAK Ceramics, the world’s largest tile manufacturer Minimum 10 years guarantee on all tile products.

114 Montreal St, Christchurch 8023 (03) 379 9109 | www.metrofloor.co.nz

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50 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Congratulations To Element17 For 10 Years In Business Phone 03 365 6218 Email info@mwf.co.nz

Physical address: Unit 3, 11 March Place Belfast, Christchurch 8051

Property & Construction | Element 17

The Christchurch café culture The rebuild is providing an opportunity for Christchurch to reinvent itself, and Rosling believes a large part of this happens business by business. “As each business opens, or moves into permanent premises, it has a chance to express itself and who it is creatively, adding to the overall landscape of our new city.” As competition for clients becomes even fiercer, a space that invitingly screams ‘come in, spend time in this place’ will be the place that attracts the money. “Our culture has changed in Christchurch in the last four years and more than ever, I believe, people are seeking out spaces and environments that they can enjoy.

Rosling is excited to be part of this journey and finds it immensely rewarding helping people turn their dreams into reality. “The bar has been raised and your clients expect something special.” And, the options are endless - there has been plenty of ‘temporary chic’ dominating the city’s hospitality scene, but as more of our eating and drinking spaces reopen in permanent locations, the trend is moving from the very popular up-cycled eclectic look, to a more refined version of the best of yesteryear combined with today’s technology.

The old timbers, fabrics and the best of the past are popular, but they are integrated into

And their work is visible all over the city: Tequila Mockingbird, Winnie Bagoes in the city and Ferrymead, Copenhagen Bakery, Twisted Hop, Black Betty’s, Coffee Culture Christchurch Airport and numerous other locations, Café Lumes, Duo Restaurant, Tavern Harewood, Pub on Wharf Queesntown, to name a few. >

Inside hospitality design Here are Element 17’s top three tips for hospitality venues planning to open soon:

Tequila Mockingbird : The inspiration behind the colour selections was to create a Cuban / South American feel through the use of textures and colour. The aim was for patrons to walk into the space and feel like they were dining down the vibrant streets of Cuba.

Tip 1 - Use a professional with the correct knowledge and experience to help you get through the planning, design and consent stages required before you open your doors. Tip 2 - A designer will be able to show you finishes, objects and furniture you never know existed. Element 17 has international contacts that can save you money and deliver something completely different and totally functional. Tip 3 - By utilising Element 17 from start to finish, it can reduce the time, stress and financial impact of making bad decisions - if they are involved from the very beginning, they provide invaluable education, experience, contacts and product suggestions, from to installing post-mix machines, to sound systems or ensuring your space is future-proofed. It’s an investment that will pay for itself in many ways.

Procope Coffee House: The café, in a newly built group of shops, is spread over two levels with the kitchen and service area on the ground floor with customer seating, tables and leaners over both levels. Notable features in the design are the pressed tin panels on the servery counter, Victorian Ash timber benchtops and collections of naked light bulbs, test tubes and glass beacons hanging from gold flex. To complete the design striking wallpaper is used in the toilets and stairway.

“Before you might have screwed a floor lamp in the ceiling and called it up cycling, now people are looking for the materials of the past, but refining and re-creating them using the skills of a craftsman to create smarter, well considered design aesthetics.”

With many hospitality spaces under their belt, the team has a reputation for delivering flair, individuality and exceeding the client’s expectations.

“All over the world, cities are defined by the areas where we enjoy food and drink, meet friends, shop and hang out. Christchurch people have this never ending journey of discovery as businesses transform themselves into creative and well thought out spaces. “

design with some flair, with stunning lighting and careful consideration to the role each item plays in the overall look of the café or restaurant.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 51

Property & Construction | Element 17 Commercial design Every business exists to solve someone’s problem. And, as the old adage goes - you don’t know what you don’t know. So, this is where an interior designer comes into their own when you are setting up a new office. “We are complete problem solvers. We work collaboratively with you to make the process easy, fun and the final product will deliver exactly what your business and budget needs.”

working overseas, I chose to come back here. Whenever I can I like to support local businesses, but we also have to do the very best by each of our clients - and in this case, going overseas was the best option.” The team also has extensive experience on helping make informed decisions about how to utilise office space - open plan, separate offices, partner’s office? Where should the meeting room be? What’s the best lighting option? How do we future proof the space? All these questions and so much more are all part of the process for Element 17.

Rosling gives the example of a law firm that wanted walnut doors in the office the Element 17 team were able to source an adhesive coating that could be applied to hollow core doors that looked and felt absolutely authentic, “and cost around $300 per door, rather than the thousands they were going to spend on solid wood”. Spaces that flow and function, as well as look good, are beneficial in attracting and retaining staff and in a world where first impressions carry a lot of weight - what do you want to say to your client’s when they enter your office?

Aspiring Asset Management: The overall design for this 80sqm tenancy was based on an art deco backdrop. This was achieved using a combination of soft furnishings and wall treatments. Examples of this were the vinyl decal on the glazing being a replicated art deco window frame; the feature light in the boardroom was a hint at the glitz and glamour of that era. The main open plan workspace consisted of a pod of six workstations, landed by a free-formed carpet tile shape. The design captures a compact, quirky look.

Recently Rosling accompanied a client to China on a buying trip. “This was a cost effective way for us to source exactly what we wanted. The world is a global market and by bringing in flooring, lightshades and furniture directly we saved thousands.” While the trip exposed Rosling to many products and ideas, he spoke of the internal battle he went through. “I am born and breed in Canterbury and after many years

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We have well over a decade in the industry and pride ourselves on the quality of our work and the seamless manner in which we get it done. We make every effort to exceed our client’s expectations, both in the finished product and the relationship through the journey. We understand that to our clients “time is money” and do everything in our power to complete a high quality project as fast as possible.

We love the jobs that others baulk at, curved walls, funky angles or features. If your architect or designer has come up with a cutting edge design to give your space the “wow” factor, Burnetts are the team to make it happen.

Saunders and Co Lawyers city: This total building makeover followed by an impressive office design and fitout. With a change of office space came a change from individual offices to an open plan approach, with plenty of breakout space for both clients and staff members. Based on a single floor area of 850 sqm there are three meeting rooms, a boardroom, staff facilities. This informal area is duplicated for the company’s clients to enjoy a relaxing interlude.

We are happy to take on any task from office fit-out, retail outlet or hospitality build, small or large. We can provide full project management, site management or simply being the building crew, it’s your choice. We are very experienced in “live office” refurbishments and understand that these works need to be completed with minimal interruptions. As Licensed Building Practitioners you can be sure that the job will be done to the best building practices. Burnetts are also Members of SiteSafe and complete a full H & S plan for each and every job. JIMMY McGREGOR \ MANAGING DIRECTOR M: 021 738 735 \ E: jimmy@burnetts.co.nz STU CLARKE \ CONTRACTS DIRECTOR M: 021 325 687 \ E: stu@burnetts.co.nz

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Ashton Wheelans City: These accountants wanted the office to look modern, edgy and professional. Block colours have been used on feature walls while the reception area has been kept clean and crisp allowing as much natural light to reflect in the area as possible.

52 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Property & Construction | Element 17

Retail design What attracts you to a store?

Creativity finds a new home

Often it’s not simply the products on display, but the overall effect - the lighting, placement, colours, the atmosphere and attraction it gives off.

Element 17 themselves are on the move into new premises. “That’s because the new city blueprint puts us in the middle of a rugby field [the planned covered stadium].”

There is a tremendous amount of psychology behind a great retail atmosphere and its one Element 17 stays in tune with. Then there are two words that put fear into the retail market, ‘online shopping’. Competition is fierce, so even the smallest, individual retailer needs to pay attention and carefully plan the space from which they will sell their product.

The move next month into an upstairs space at 222 St Asaph Street will give them an opportunity to put their creativity into overdrive. “It will definitely be a fun cool space!”

“Many people opening businesses are pouring their life savings into it, so getting it right is important. “You don’t have to have a massive budget or be a multi-national to engage us. It’s all about making the process as fun as possible, trying new things and getting the right look and feel for your particular brand, and we can do that for you, not to mention removing many of the headaches and time you would spend making it happen. “I believe the majority of people embarking on a design project of any kind underestimate the time, the cost and the regulatory hoops you have to jump through to make it happen.” Education is a large part of Rosling’s game and the consultancy side of the business is booming.

Element 17 222 St Asaph Street Christchurch T (03) 366 5532 E Steve@element17.co.nz www.element17.co.nz

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 53

Property & Construction | A1homes Christchurch

A1 showhome reveals building at its best A1homes in Canterbury has just won its first Registered Master Builders’ House of the Year award for its beautiful new showhome in Kaiapoi.

The Christchurch based company has been building homes and supplying kitset houses throughout the Canterbury and West Coast regions for 11 years. It is part of a network of A1homes franchises throughout the country.

The winning showhome A1homes director Julie Clayton says the company has two showhomes, located at 42 Sherborne Street, St Albans, and a

larger new showhome at 23 Barnard Street, Silverstream, Kaiapoi. The Silverstream showhome opened in March and was A1homes Christchurch’s first entry into the Registered Master Builders’ House of the Year awards. It won a bronze award in the showhome category. Clayton says the whole Canterbury team is delighted with the award. “This is the very first time we’ve entered into the awards and we’re very happy with the results.”

A1homes Christchurch has had a fantastic year and is looking forward to a positive future. The company was formed in January 2003 by Bruce and Julie Clayton and today employs nine staff, along with a trusted group of quality subcontractors. “Business is going very well and we’re extremely busy at the moment,” Julie says. “As well as our own homes, we’re working in closely with Hawkins Construction with the Canterbury rebuild. “We’re looking forward to another successful 12 months. It’s just been amazing. We’ve been working with some fantastic people through the rebuild.

The beautiful interior of A1homes Christchurch’s new showhome in Kaiapoi

The exterior is clad in linear board and schist, with a schist fireplace and columns being features of the exterior.

High quality homes with A1homes A1homes’ two showhomes provide potential customers with a tactile guide to the quality of materials and finish they will get with an A1home. “It’s not a well-known fact, but the quality of materials we use are no different to the guy who’s much dearer up the road,” says Johnny Fyall, manager of A1homes Christchurch. “People demand quality, and for their money they get it with an A1 home.”

A1homes won a bronze award in the Registered Master Builders’ House of the Year awards for its new Kaiapoi showhome

“It’s great to see people happy when they move into their new homes; that’s the most rewarding part.”

The Silverstream showhome is a three bedroom house with a two-way bathroom accessed from the hallway and master bedroom. It features an open plan lounge, kitchen and dining area and has a large double garage.

A great year for A1homes

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54 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Property & Construction | A1homes Christchurch

Great quality homes

It’s all taken care of with an A1 built home

Customers of A1homes Christchurch can choose from more than 60 architect designed plans or modify them to suit their own needs. They can also provide their own unique plan.

With an A1 built home, the company will take care of the entire build from start to finish.

The Christchurch company offers a range of different options for homeowners, including kitset homes they can build themselves.

“We believe building a new home should be one of the most rewarding experiences of anyone’s life,” Christchurch manager Johnny Fyall says.

A1homes offers a huge range of fixed-price homes it can build anywhere from Karamea to Haast on the West Coast, through to the Waitaki River and north to Kaikoura.

“So when we are given charge of the build, we walk our customers through the journey, step by step, so they are aware of every part of their build, every part of the way."

Julie Clayton says the Christchurch franchise can build all of the homes on its website, or build the client’s own plans.

Once a customer finds a preferred building site, it is advisable they then visit the nearest A1homes showhome. >

“Quite often people use the designs on our website as a starting point,” she says. A1homes’ showhomes demonstrate the high quality of the company’s construction

A1homes’ built homes include a range of beach homes created for the easy coming together of friends and family in a comfortable and friendly environment. Informal and inviting open plan spaces are prioritised for daytime living, while the efficient use of the remainder of floor space caters to night time accommodation and service requirements. The company’s essential homes are designed for smaller sections or for those wanting big home comfort and practicality on a smaller scale.

The company’s two level homes are designed along similar lines to its lifestyle homes, but with one additional feature; the ability for parents to retreat upstairs, away from teenagers or visiting guests. The majority of these homes allow for those occupying the upstairs spaces to access their own individual ensuite on the same floor. A1homes’ range of value homes provide all the necessary basics required in a home for families of all sizes building on a budget.

These homes fit the description for pretty much every New Zealander who needs a home to grow up in, grow a family in, or grow These are the company’s most affordable homes and are particularly popular due to old in. They provide all the essentials and their efficiency of design and the ease with much more. which they allow inhabitants to live together A1homes’ lifestyle homes offer an abundance under one roof. of space for the biggest family or those who A1homes’ transportable homes are designed love having lots of friends over. as great value holiday homes, farm workers’ The emphasis in these homes is multiple homes or those wanting creature comforts and bedrooms and multiple living areas. honest-to-goodness practicality. They are built Linear board and schist feature on the exterior of A1homes’ award-winning showhome in on A1homes’ site and transported to your site. This design direction, which A1homes calls Silverstream, Kaiapoi harmonious living, allows big numbers of A1homes’ transportables arrive ready people to live together happily, while prepared for gib stopping and painting, offering plenty of space options for getting with the kitchen, plumbing and electrical away from it all. fittings completed.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 55

Property & Construction | A1homes Christchurch

A1 Kitsets

Cost-effective kitset homes

A1homes offers kitset homes from its standard A1 plans range, which have high wind and earthquake ratings. These kits include:

A1homes’ kitset homes are a great option for people building on a tight budget.

• Wall frames • Roof framing • Fascia • Roofing – corrugated or ribbed longrun iron, or upgrade to a metal tile roof • Soffits • Cladding – brick, weatherboard or axon panel • Guttering • Dougle glazed windows • Ceiling batten • Insulation • Interior linings • Scotia • Skirting • Interior doors • Door hardware • Kitchen – fully assembled • Appliances –wall oven, ceramic cook top, dishwasher, canopy rangehood • Laundry tub • Shower • Bath • Toilets • Tapware • Hotwater cylinder • Homefirst kit home guarantee.

A1homes recently took part in the Ag Fest festival in Hokitika in early July, which was attended by 20,000 people. Julie Clayton says

the company’s kitset homes were a huge draw-card for the crowds. “Kitset homes are popular on the West Coast because the homeowner is not paying a margin to a building company,” she says. “They can do some of the work themselves and a lot of people have friends who will do it for them.”

“There are some builders on the West Coast that just do our kitset homes,” she says. For those wanting to do as much as possible themselves, to run the job and perhaps do some of the building work, A1homes’ kitset homes are the ideal option and a wonderful way to save money. A1homes supplies all materials on a predetermined schedule and delivers them to your building site. You can either build yourself if you’ve got the qualifications or desire, or contract a builder and subcontractors to do the work for you. This option can be extremely rewarding for those equipped with good project management skills, and it can prove incredibly cost-effective. Johnny Fyall says kitset homes are an economic way to build a new house. Kits contain everything from the framing timber, roofing iron and cladding through to kitchen appliances, bathroom ware and laundry tubs.

A1homes Christchurch has been building homes and supplying kitset houses throughout Canterbury and the West Coast

• Vanities

Julie Clayton says the company’s large range of stylish kitset homes are particularly popular with customers on the West Coast, where the company has delivered more than 400 kits.

“We provide a wonderfully practical and comfortable alternative with our kit homes. Lots of our customers like to run the build themselves; that way they can save themselves thousands of dollars.”

“It’s a very cost-effective option to home building. Not everyone can afford to go out and spend half a million dollars on a house,” he says.

The two-way bathroom is accessed from both the master bedroom and hallway

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Property & Construction | A1homes Christchurch

A word from A1homes Christchurch manager, Johnny Fyall “I was born and bred in South Canterbury and after 12 years’ experience around the globe working in the building industry, I have been responsible for managing A1homes in this part of the world for the last six years. “We have an extensive network of experienced builders and tradespeople who work in partnership with us to provide quality building services. “We only work alongside local suppliers and contractors who have the same philosophy as ourselves - to ensure quality and pride in our work. “Flexibility, transparency and keeping the building process simple are key attributes that make working with our team an enjoyable experience.”

”

Eliminating budget overruns

The biggest worry most homeowners have when building a new house is potential budget blowouts, which can have a serious impact on their ability to finish their new home to the standard they wish to achieve.

But those choosing to build with A1homes can rest easy knowing they have the benefit of the company’s industry-leading initiative, the No Surprises Guarantee. All of A1homes’ plans, which are available on its website, come with a fixed-price guarantee, meaning homeowners will not face any surprise costs. Even if they alter the plans to suit their own needs, A1 will still lock the final price in for them before building starts. The price will only change if they make changes during construction. Once the A1 team has gone through all of the build specifications with the customer and everyone is aware of the costs, the company will guarantee there will be no costly surprises at the end of the job. “I don’t know anyone who is happy with unexpected overruns on a house build,” Johnny Fyall says. “So naturally we’re excited to offer the no-surprises guarantee with all of our homes; kit homes or A1 build homes.”

A cost-effective option The no surprises guarantee initiative, together with A1homes’ great prices, is one of the key reasons the company has been so successful. Because A1homes is one of New Zealand’s largest home builders, customers benefit from its huge buying power when building their new home. They can even rely on A1homes to get them a great price on home finishings and furnishings such as carpet, tiles, drapes and even flatscreen TVs.

A1homes’ showhome at 23 Barnard Street, Silverstream, Kaiapoi

“

The A1homes’ commitment A1homes Christchurch is committed to delivering the highest level quality and service. The company is proud of its reputation as one of New Zealand’s most trusted home building partners. Every home built comes from this solid foundation and commitment.

Even when customers choose to modify an A1 plan or use their own plan, they still benefit from A1homes’ buying power.

A1homes Christchurch 42 Sherborne Street St Albans Christchurch T (03) 377 9051 E johnny.fyall@a1homes.co.nz www.a1homes.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Proud supporters of A1 Homes

“Helping people into their dream homes, wherever the plan ideas have come from, is all part of the A1homes quality service,” Fyall says. The company has exceptional knowledge of what consumers expect. “Whoever says they can’t afford to build a warm and welcoming new home these days has never stepped foot into an A1home.”

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 57

Property & Construction | Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham

Renovation reveals history of landmark Beckenham buildings A local dairy, a TAB, a private residence and a hair salon – these are just a few of the previous incarnations of Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham’s unique collection of buildings in the heart of Christchurch’s southern suburbs. Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham is a true landmark on the corner of Tennyson and Colombo Streets, and the iconic buildings the team has called home for three decades have recently undergone an impressive renovation.

was part of Grocers’ United Stores Ltd, dating back to the early 1900s. We also uncovered some really old, hand painted wallpaper. It was an interesting process and the whole team got involved.”

This huge undertaking has shed light on the site’s long and colourful history. Fittingly, the Harcourts team that proudly occupies the buildings is equally as colourful.

Adding to the intrigue was the discovery that one of the villas on the site may be a lot older than the official title suggests.

One of Canterbury’s longest-serving real estate companies, Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham is also part of the largest franchise group in the country, Grenadier Real Estate. It has occupied the same corner site for 30 years, and owners Bill and Tekla Kridle are proud of the business’s deep roots in the local community. Kridle says “Being a landmark business in the southern suburbs is one of the things we value very much – offering support to our local community, extending our warmth and presence to every person who requires it. We feel it is like being a beacon – our community and clients know we are here for them, whenever we are needed.”

Shadows of the past revealed Like so many other Christchurch businesses, the Canterbury quakes took its toll on Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham’s collection of corner-site buildings and marked the start of a long road to recovery.

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We had a very long wait to obtain resource consent to rebuild our office reception and revitalise our damaged premises,” Kridle says. As part of the renovation, the historical green grocer shop, which was previously Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham’s reception, was demolished and rebuilt. A rib-raft foundation was put in place and an existing 1870s villa was moved to the street to serve as the new boardroom and training facility. “During the renovation of the surviving buildings, we discovered a logo behind a plaster wall that revealed one of the buildings

“The earliest date reflected on the title is 1899, but we believe the villa is much older than this, possibly going back to the 1870s or 1880s. The story has been passed down that it was initially owned by a spinster or a widow, but the first name on the title is ‘Amelia Bullen, wife of Henry Charles Bullen of Sydenham, Woodcarver’. “It was a private residence for many years, with a large backyard for kids, pets and hens. Prior to us buying it in 2003, it had been a rental and was in rough shape. “We refurbished it back then and obtained consent to use it for part of our real estate office. Over the years, we have had lots of visitors who claim to have lived in it at one time or another.” In keeping with tradition, prior to the renovation and rebuild, the Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham team planted a veggie garden behind the villa and installed a henhouse to provide fresh eggs for the team. Reinforcing the business’s role in the community, a large, double faced street clock was installed on the Colombo Street side as part of the renovation. The new reception features a floor to ceiling light wall that changes colour every few seconds throughout the day and night, and backlit window displays showcase current real estate listings. “Our newly refurbished premises is a real credit to us and our community. We are proud of our history here and we can’t wait to continue to help our clients any way we can. And now we will have more room to grow; we are always looking for good people to join us.”

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58 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Property & Construction | Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham

Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham uncovered

an immense depth of experience between us and a variety of complementary skills – we all work really well together.

With 20 sales consultants focussing solely on the residential market, the Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham team is as richly varied and vibrant as the historical buildings it occupies.

“I came from the IT industry, but have been in real estate for over 20 years now. Bill has over 30 years in the industry, including owning and running an office in Minnesota. He has seen and done it all and isn’t afraid of challenging “We have brand new agents right through to the norm – he’s introduced many new ideas to 50 year veterans, ageing from 22 to 72 years,” Harcourts from his experiences in the States. Kridle says. “Nick started out in real estate in England “We are mothers, fathers, sons, daughters and and after a successful selling career, he grandparents, and we come from all walks of moved into management. He has over life – interior design, travel industry, military, 28 years in the industry and has been a car sales, IT, teaching, public service, and sales manager, area manager, business more. We are a group of achievers, who have development manager and trainer.” a lot of fun while we are achieving.” Kridle credits her franchise’s success to the Led by joint owners Bill and Tekla Kridle, team as a whole and their respect for the and sales manager Nick Hallpike, Harcourts community and area they serve. Grenadier Beckenham has consistently won national awards for overall sales, productivity per sales consultant and client service.

“

There is such a wide range of properties and prices – from flats, units and townhouses, to lifestyle and executive homes, as well as many businesses. We think we have one of the most diverse and exciting franchise areas in the country.

”

many businesses. We think we have one of the most diverse and exciting franchise areas in the country.

“We are the gateway to the southern suburbs, hills and harbour basin – from the flat, to the river, up to the hills, and around the harbour. “There is such a wide range of properties and prices – from flats, units and townhouses, to lifestyle and executive homes, as well as

“The diversity of properties means there is something for everyone – first-home buyers, investors, lifestylers, families, singles, couples and retirees.” >

It was also ranked 30th in the world for the Harcourts Group at the end of the last financial year – a remarkable achievement given the overall Harcourts Group has 782 offices in seven different countries. The leadership trio also adds an international flavour to the team. The Kridles hail from the United States, while Hallpike used to call the United Kingdom home. “We are non-selling managers and our sole focus is to support our team, not compete with them,” Tekla Kridle explains. “We have

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Property & Construction | Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham

Lessons from the past Much of Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham’s franchise area suffered badly as a result of the earthquakes and Kridle says the widespread damage presented an enormous challenge to the Christchurch real estate industry. “We had to figure out how to sell damaged houses and how real estate would continue. In the immediate aftermath, the number of houses on the market shrunk, but the demand was still there – and became even stronger. “The earthquakes complicated real estate so much. It has been an incredible learning curve for us all and we have thrived on the learning. “I’m really proud of how quickly we reacted. We sought legal advice, engaged a leading real estate barrister and figured out how we could provide protection for our buyers and sellers. “At the end of the day, the earthquakes reminded us that real estate has been, and always will be, a people business. Although we use all the latest technology and our buyers are really tech savvy, ultimately, we are fulfilling people’s needs and aspirations. “We often work with people during the emotional highs and lows of their lives – marriage, death, divorce, relocation – and that’s a responsibility we take very seriously.”

Thinking about a career in real estate? Here are some words of advice from the experienced team at Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham.

Firstly, real estate isn’t part time – it is full time from the beginning. Some new agents hit the ground running and start earning straight away, others can take a little longer. You will need some backing financially to sustain you while you are getting started and working towards your first commission. There are no secrets in real estate, and one of the biggest mistakes new agents make is trying to reinvent the wheel.

The activities are simple – we knock on doors, we network, we make phone calls, we watch what successful agents do. The most important thing for new agents is to start generating their business on a frequent basis. We are negotiators, facilitators, coaches and counselors, and while technology gives us tools to support our business, real estate always has been, and will remain, a people business. You also need basic business acumen with good written communication skills, because you are always keeping your clients updated with written reports.

For more information, come and meet the team at a free introductory evening at Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham, corner Colombo and Tennyson Streets, October 8, 6pm. Or, feel free to call Bill, Tekla or Nick on 337 1316, or just pop in to meet the team!

Harcourts Grenadier Beckenham 130 Colombo Street Beckenham Christchurch T (03) 337 1316 E enquiries.beckenham@harcourts.co.nz

Hill Proud to have transformed the exterior of the Harcourts building

www.cjplaster.co.nz

Miles

A R C H I T E C T U R E

Grant Miles A challanging brief enjoyed harmonising the new build with preserving the Villa. All the best to Bill, Tekla and the team. 7 / 4 1 S i r W i l l i a m P i c k e r i n g D r i v e , Te c h n o l o g y P a r k , C h r i s t c h u r c h phone: 03 358 5191 fax: 03 358 5196 info@hillmiles.co.nz arc h i tec tu re

60 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

ar chitectur al

and

inter ior

designer s

Focus | Project Stainless

Taking shape Project Stainless Limited has done what every good company should – seen a gap in the market and filled it. The Christchurch company which has associate companies in Auckland, Wellington and Sydney, is a custom stainless steel fabricator providing a range of products to a variety of industries.

Stainless steel fabrication Project Stainless Ltd was formed in Christchurch in 2007 and is now considered one of the top manufacturers in the stainless steel industry.

“All four Project Stainless factories fabricate high quality stainless steel products for the hospitality industry. “In Christchurch we have also diversified into industrial work for food factories, as well as platforms and conveyors for industrial systems. We do stainless steel and aluminium work on big trucks and, at the other end of the spectrum, quality domestic stainless steel benches for new housing and renovations.”

years of experience in the industry. This is complemented by our team of skilled tradesmen, plus we have an apprentice training programme in place to create the tradesmen of tomorrow.”

“We are continually looking to improve our processes and service to give us points of difference with our traditional products, while looking outside the square for new products and techniques,” he says.

The company has drawn on this expertise to design and build refrigerated bottle coolers, food display cabinets, Bain Maries and chill wells.

“Attention to detail is a big thing, as well as providing a quality product on time. Because of the extensive quality control and time management systems we have developed and implemented, along with modern equipment and workshop facilities, our loyal customer base is continuing to grow.”

• PPS Industries • Steel and Tube

As well as offering a standard range of cabinets, the team at Project Stainless also makes bespoke cabinets for high profile customers throughout New Zealand and Australia.

Focus on quality

Specialty food and beverage cabinets

Project Stainless’ uncompromising working philosophy, which is shared by all staff, is that it manufactures only the highest quality products to customer specifications on time, every time.

Project Stainless Limited 115 Hayton Road Sockburn Christchurch T (03) 343 6140 Freephone 0800 525 852 E brian@projectstainless.co.nz E nnaylor@projectstainless.co.nz www.projectstainless.co.nz — Advertising Feature

WIREWORKS (2002) LTD Makers of Wire Products

Stevens says quality is essential when designing and manufacturing for the food industry.

Baskets, Nursery Guards, Sieves, Display Stands, Welded Mesh

Phone: (03) 366 0636 Fax: (03) 365 6293

Email: info@coulterwire.co.nz 63 Coleridge Street, Christchurch 8023

www.coulterwire.co.nz

www.steelandtube.co.nz

Proud to be a supplier of quality stainless steel to Project Stainless.

• Coulter Wire Works.

COULTER

“Most of our work is custom work, which is done by our highly skilled staff.”

Project Stainless’ range of professional services includes a full site-specific design service, custom stainless steel manufacturing and project management.

“Between production manager Nigel Naylor and myself, we have over 70

Food display cabinets are a specialty of Project Stainless in Christchurch

Project Stainless did the kitchen at the Novotel in Christchurch

“The company was born out of the need for high quality stainless steel fabrication, especially in the hospitality industry, where mid and high-end suppliers were struggling to find good manufacturers,” says manager Brian Stevens.

Project Stainless would like to thank the following companies for their support: <

It undertakes competitive design and fabrication of all types of stainless steel benches, sinks, extract hoods, spine walls, wall linings, shelves, handrails and all other stainless steel custom fabrication.

FOR ALL YOUR STEEL REQUIREMENTS Contact the experts 0800 478 335

MANUFACTURERS OF CUSTOM BUILT STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless Steel manufactured to suit the most demanding requirements

www.projectstainless.co.nz Phone. 03 343 6140

Fax. 03 343 2857

Email. brian@projectstainless.co.nz or nnaylor@projectstainless.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 61

Focus | Watts & Hughes Construction

Helping rebuild Christchurch Watts and Hughes Construction is proudly doing its bit to rebuild Christchurch. The company has been operating in the city for three and a half years and has repaired and rebuilt hundreds of homes in that time, as well as constructing and repairing many significant commercial buildings within the city. Site and project manager Jhan Carrothers says Watts and Hughes’ move into Christchurch has been a big success.

• The time and effort it dedicates to understanding customer needs and its proven ability to work professionally and efficiently. The company values its clients and goes the extra mile to ensure each and every customer is 100 percent satisfied • Staff are experienced and customer focused and get the job done right and on time • It has established relationships with a large subcontractor base across New Zealand • Regular, unannounced site safe visits checking on site safety

“We’re repairing 40 to 50 houses a month, which is the most challenging part of our work as it involves working with a lot of different home owners. But we have good systems in place,” Carrothers says.

• Watts and Hughes is also registered with AppCon (a contractor approval and appraisal management service) and recently received a 97 percent safety rating

“We do a lot of earthquake repairs to commercial buildings, which are on a larger scale. We also do new commercial work such as new supermarkets and fitouts.”

• The company is a member of the NZ Master Builders’ Association.

Successful Glassworks project Watts and Hughes Construction is nearing completion of the most recent stage of the Christchurch Glassworks Industry Park, on time and on budget. The huge project involved building three large buildings at a total cost of $25 million. “They’re tilt slab and structural steel and are essentially big iron warehouses with offices,” Carrothers says.

Project manager Michael Beagle says the large, complex project involved a weekly expenditure of more than $1 million towards the end. The Watts and Hughes team worked around the clock to keep to schedule.

“We had 29,500 square metres of concrete to pour into this building. The weather was not great and it was challenging,” he says. Beagle says due to the weather, the building was constructed first and the concrete slab poured inside to better protect it from the elements. While not the preferred method of construction, it provided the most timeeffective solution. “We had trucks and guys placing concrete from 4am to 10pm for quite awhile. We had to ensure there were no delays, so across the project, many tradespeople were working 24 hour shifts.” Twenty five contractors worked around the clock to fix the 33,000 square metres of roof and cladding to the buildings.

Watts and Hughes Construction is busy doing earthquake repairs in Christchurch homes

“Work started in February and we should be out of there within the next few weeks.”

Watts and Hughes Construction is repairing 40-50 Christchurch homes per month

Watts and Hughes is involved in several different earthquake repair programmes in Canterbury and is busy with an ongoing programme of residential repairs and rebuilds.

What distinguishes Watts and Hughes Construction from other construction companies?

Add in the 6,000 square metres of asphalt, the 12 out of 30 wet days in the month of July, the challenge of finding good staff in the Canterbury building sector, and it becomes clear that the challenges faced by the Watts and Hughes team were significant.

The park, owned by Goodman Property Trust since 2006, is on the site of the old Crown Crystal Glass factory between Halswell Junction and Shands roads. The three buildings have been built for logistics companies DHL and Move Logistics, and Bridgestone.

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62 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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www.b3construction.co.nz B3 Construction, formed in 2012 to assist with the massive rebuild works, competed multiple emergency demolition and make safe contracts before moving into the rebuild. With the very name B3 signifying we will be “Building Better Buildings”, the team of qualified carpenters are set to be part of the future of Canterbury. Residential Repairs

15 Klondyke Drive, Hornby, Christchurch Ph: 03 349 0200 | Fax: 03 349 0203 | www.c-e.co.nz

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Focus | Watts & Hughes Construction

Watts and Hughes recognises and thanks the following businesses for their continued support: • KC Fence Systems • BB Construction • MPM Projects • Chapman Engineering • Dominion Flooring • Graham Hill Roofing.

Rolleston Police Station

Employing great staff and subcontractors Watts and Hughes Construction has employed a strong workforce of Canterbury employees and established a network of quality subcontractors in Christchurch. Jhan Carrothers says most of the Canterbury division’s staff were from Tauranga when it first established a base in the city more than three years ago. However, more than half of the 24 staff now working in Christchurch are from the city. “We have a big local base now and have that local knowledge,” he says. Watts and Hughes has also established a strong network of high-quality subcontractors, which is a point of difference for the company. “We treat our subcontractors like our employees. There is a lot of knowledge in our office and with our subcontractors and that’s really important,” he says. “We have a broad range of site managers who have done a wide range of projects, from large scale jobs overseas to projects within New Zealand.”

company, which recognises that providing quality construction is a major part of every successful project. Watts and Hughes employs a range of quality initiation, assessment, monitoring, and completion processes, all to ISO standard, which are overseen by the construction project manager for each site. The construction project management team ensures all quality control procedures are followed and emphasis is also placed on the responsibility of all Watts and Hughes personnel associated with the project to consistently produce the best possible quality of work. Watts and Hughes takes clients through every step of the project, from initial design to completed construction, and recognises that client requirements are of extreme importance. Control and management of all projects are overseen by the directors, who ensure key people possess the technical excellence, experience and construction industry

knowledge to get the job completed on time and to a high standard. The company’s services have an ongoing commitment to providing exceptional quality of design and construction that exceeds its clients’ requirements. Staff are committed to meeting every client’s needs through regular communication. Directors Craig Watts, Peter Wilkinson, Rob Murphy and Mark Gutry are fully involved in every aspect of their business and are always available to talk to clients and make decisions quickly. The company ensures clients have regular communications concerning progress and if they need answers fast, they can contact a Watts and Hughes director.

Significant Christchurch projects Watts and Hughes Construction’s Christchurch workload is growing as the city continues to be rebuilt.

The company is in increasing demand as it completes a significant number of major projects. Site and project manager Jhan Carrothers says Watts and Hughes is starting a five storey office building for Opus in Moorhouse Avenue, and also has a number of tilt-slab commercial buildings going up in Gloucester Street. Watts and Hughes is also currently repairing 24 two-storey apartments in Gloucester Street. Other completed commercial projects include Fresh Choice Barrington, Rolleston Police Station and Countdown Ferrymead.

Watts and Hughes Construction Limited 71 Orbell Street Sydenham Christchurch T (03) 423 9305 E christchurch@whconstruction.co.nz www.whconstruction.co.nz — Advertising Feature

A large part of the company’s success can be attributed to the strong team culture, the dedication to continual training and the fact that many of the senior people in the company started back in the early days as juniors and have steadily moved their way up the ranks. Watts and Hughes is a highly regarded employer and its exceptional staff retention is testimony to that.

Ensuring successful projects Jhan Carrothers says a huge emphasis is put on quality right across the Watts and Hughes

Fresh Choice Barrington

Proudly supporting Watts & Hughes

Proud to support Watts & Hughes Construction Glassworks

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 63

Focus | Adgraphix

Printing that’s picture perfect Change is the only constant in business and Adgraphix not only thrives on change, it seeks it out. Change has been the biggest driver behind its solid reputation and continual 15 year growth. Adgraphix, a South Island, if not new Zealand leader in large format digital printing, has never stood still - its constantly looking to new technology, techniques and attitudes that will keep it at the forefront of the industry.

Illumination

Operations managing director of the Christchurch business, Scott Shore says anyone can change their machinery, or buy a large top of the line printer, but it’s how you run it that will make the difference. “Our emphasis is on the systems we use to run our gear, and we are always changing and improving these systems.” But behind the technology and dedication to quality, the team is highly creative. “We work with the most creative minds in New Zealand, which means every job, every challenge, every day is different. We’re always walking that fine line between art and marketing, between creativity and getting the most for your budget.” In life we are surrounded by print, it’s the morning newspaper, the road sign on the way to work, a school textbook, the box your cereal comes in, a treasured family photo. It’s all around us and the creation of this print material is a complicated and highly technical process; one we most likely never give a passing thought to.

Murals

“

We want to inspire you. To take your brand and hit people right between the eyes with it. To get every last ounce of repower out of your dollar. That’s what maximum impact means. - Scott Shore

”

“What we do everyday has an exceptionally high technical component and people generally don’t see that. And they don’t need to.”

Shore knows that his company’s leading position is due to the expertise, skill and attention to detail within the 21 strong team. “A good final product is not just about the operational aspect of the job and it’s not only about the machine its printed on, it’s about how the files are managed from the moment we receive them and how we manage the profiles for colour. “It’s about the environment and how each aspect of the process works with the others to ensure you get a technically perfect product every time.” This takes expertise and passion - something Adgraphix has in bucket loads.

Adgraphix have a reputation for high print quality and they achieve this with HP printing technology across many platforms. Their state of art facility includes the latest 3rd generation HP Latex industrial and commercial printers that have been proudly supplied by Jenrite.

Continual re-investment into every area of the company ensures it continues to deliver the highest quality. “We invested into custom built software for quoting, which means there is no inconsistency between what is promised and what is delivered.” Shore says it also means fast turnarounds of quotes. “We also use sophisticated software across all other areas of the business, meaning we always have the very latest version of any file we are supplied. “The latest changes for the business is a brand refresh - like everything we do, we strive for maximum impact and now was the time to make a change to ensure our brand was delivering that for us... and our team has a lot of fun being the photographic models for all our brand material.”

CHERRY PICKERS SCISSORLIFTS KNUCKLEBOOMS SILVERCARD TRAINING

HIRE AND BE IN TO WIN!! 0800 TO GET HIGH 64 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Focus | Adgraphix

Supersize printing

Two men, a machine and a dream

Always pushing the boundaries

Fifteen years ago, Shore and co-director, product manager Jeff Gibson, were working for the same screen printing company. Plans to move to digital were abandoned, but both men knew this was the way of the future and jumped ship together to forge it alone in the world of large format digital print.

The ownership team expanded in 2004 when business manager John Stylianou bought into the business. In 2011 he joined Shore and Gibson operationally - the trio has not looked back since.

“From the start we were pushing boundaries and investing heavily in new technology. There were challenging times, and sometimes there is that fine line you have to walk between cost and potential.” But the belief in their decisions and advancements in machinery, software and techniques has seen the company stay at the top of the game. “We have always been seen as leaders and we plan to hold onto that position through continually seeking the best way to do what we do.”

They were also one of the first to operate a flatbed printer in New Zealand. Following this, there was colour management - again Adgraphix was an early adopter to take full control of the colours being produced by the machines. Even today they’re one of the few printers in the country to produce high quality, colour controlled illuminated graphics for events, trade shows and displays. “From the beginning we have been renowned for being innovative and working with new technology.”

We work with the most creative minds in New Zealand, which means every job, every challenge, every day is different - and we love it! We’re always walking that fine line between art and marketing, between creativity and getting the most for your budget.

”

- Scott Shore

Shore talks extensively about there being no technological equivalent of old-fashioned service. “That’s just part of who we are and what we do. And fun, we believe in fun.” Shore says that throughout the entire process, its expert operators are available to clients. “From start to finish you can access our team and talk to them about the operational aspects of your job. We are very into finding solutions rather than just offering up an average job to the client.” From day one - it’s been this dedication to quality control that has seen them build an impressive portfolio of repeat clients. Part of this quality control has involved international trips to the source of the machines it has previously purchased. “To read about a machine is one thing, but to see it working on our files in the way we will use it in the print shop is entirely different. Rather than being given print samples produced in the very best of circumstances, we believe its important to see it in real world circumstances. This means we know exactly what we are getting.” >

Vehicle printing

They were the first in Christchurch to purchase and use a solvent printer. “Back then it was ground-breaking technology and was able to produce digitally printed, short run durable prints that were UV resistant.”

Pushing the boundaries of their capability is par for the course for the team. And, it’s not just about the technology. “We deliver a quality product, on time and it always exceeds the customers’ expectations.”

“

Get your insurance into Top Gear with a professional approach to your personal and business insurance. At Delray Group we specialise in protecting our client’s valuable lifestyle from the unexpected whether you need Medical cover, Life cover, Income Protection or Key Person cover. We provide solutions from 8 different insurers saving you both time and money. *A disclosure statement is available upon request & free of charge.

To make an enquiry please contact us on… Phone: 03 344 5966 or Email: office@delray.co.nz

www.delray.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 65

Focus | Adgraphix

Early adopters in greener print options Adgraphix strong relationships extend beyond its interactions with its clients and into beneficial dealings with its one of its major machinery and technology partner - HP. “This relationship goes far beyond the single dimension of support. It’s a dynamic dialogue. HP shares its expertise about where new technology is heading. In turn we can decide how to use that expertise to underpin our goals for consistency and innovation,” Shore adds.

Trade show displays

Event signage

This relationship led to a visit to Melbourne last year for a demonstration of HP’s latest latex printing technologies. This resulted in Adgraphix, again being the first Kiwi company, to install a 3.2 metre HP Latex 3000 printer.

Direct printing A chance to get creative by printing directly on to just about anything. Super sized Printing up to a massive roll width of 5m - New Zealands widest printing. White ink Forget muddy prints on dark substrates, white ink gives bright vivid colour no matter the background.

The solid working respect between the companies also meant HP sent, at no cost, technicians into Christchurch immediately after the quakes to get Adgraphix printers realigned and up and running - allowing the team to start churning out print material for the agencies that were moving into high-gear to cordon off and make our city safe.

Display systems

The change to the latex inks was an easy decision. It was a mature technology with no substrate limitations, meaning it was greener. Additionally it was able to help the team achieve higher quality output, increase its speed of operation, bring benefit to the cost of printing - all while being the environmentally better option.

Signage

“Printer speed is critical and we don’t see anything else on the market that delivers what this printer does. It’s easy to load, the setup is fast and user friendly, and our team has halved the time it takes to get it operational.” Another advantage is that prints made in this machine are completely cured inside the printer, resulting in a durable image that’s ready for lamination, finishing, shipment or display. “With solvent inks, we often had to wait 24 hours before the process could be finished,” Shore explains. This large machine means it can extend its maximum print width to 3.2 metres and print on a wider range of soft and stretchy fabrics. “This means we can exploit even better opportunities in trade show displays, airport signage and major retail locations which require large backdrops and illuminated features.” Going back to the advantages of latex inks, on an operational level, they have no odour

66 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Adgraphix are leaders in merging digital print and sign making expertise in its modern Christchurch facility using cutting edge software and machinery, as well as traditional techniques.

Innovative display systems custom built, do it yourself or portable for trade show and retail applications. Perfect colour In-house colour control for accurate, predictable and repeatable colour.

Full service sign shop providing high quality solutions for any signage requirement. Environmentally responsible Focussed commitment to our health and safety responsiblilities, and environmental management system.

so the printing systems need no special ventilation providing a better environment for our print operators. It also means you have a “clean” print which can be used indoors with no smell. “This means the final print can be used in schools, restaurants and hospital in large quantities. “It’s also quicker to install, so the client is getting a higher quality product with less disruption to its operations,” adds Shore. Adgraphix 16 Buchan Street Sydenham Christchurch T (03) 365 6770 www.apgraphix.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Focus | Kidney Health New Zealand

Increasing kidney health awareness Kidney Health New Zealand, originally The New Zealand Kidney Foundation, was formed in 1979 with the goals of funding kidney research, promoting transplantation as the most cost-effective treatment for kidney failure, and supporting people with kidney failure. In 2008 the organisation changed its name to more accurately reflect the breadth of its concern for kidney health. Kidney Health New Zealand recognised the need to widen its programme to address community education and to assist the early detection and prevention of kidney disease. The organisation engages with a much wider audience throughout the country to reach groups and individuals who are not currently affected by kidney disease, and who have little or no knowledge of kidney disease, its impacts, or steps to assist its detection and prevention. There is a greater emphasis on community education and screening of people at increased risk of chronic kidney disease. Support of people with serious kidney disease and research into kidney disease both remain a key focus. Kidney Health New Zealand is a registered charity and receives no government funding, relying on donations and requests to continue its work. There are four staff members who

all work part time and include Kelvin Lynn, medical director, who is retiring at the end of this year.

A recent project During this year’s annual Kidney Health week in March the organisation targeted those most at risk. Packs were available and included an envelope with a specially designed Warrant of Fitness label on the front distributed by the Mad Butcher stores in Auckland. In these packs was a urine testing kit, information about kidney disease, and a plastic card with advice on what to ask your GP to check the health of your kidneys.

Current projects A long awaited and much requested educational DVD, which is aimed at people with end stage kidney disease, has commenced production.

This is designed specifically to be a home grown New Zealand resource for kidney patients and their families. Initially it will The response was overwhelming with the be translated into Tongan and Samoan 3,000 packs available within two days. languages. It is designed to complement “A huge thank you to the Mad Butcher and his the popular resource book Living with team, who have offered to be involved in next Kidney Disease. year’s campaign, this time nationally,” Kidney “The best part about my role is being able Health New Zealand education manager to educate and support people and their Carmel Gregan-Ford says. families affected by kidney disease. I also speak to groups, students and members of the general public to raise awareness about kidney disease, in particular those at risk,” Carmel says. “We have a 24 hour free phone information line people can call and have their questions answered. I am a registered nurse with many years’ experience in the area of nephrology medicine”.

“

The best part about my role is being able to educate and support people and their families affected by kidney disease. I also speak to groups, students and members of the general public to raise awareness about kidney disease, in particular those at risk

- CARMEL GREGAN-FORD

”

For further information about Kidney Health NZ’s work, visit www.kidneys.co.nz or check out the Facebook page www.facebook.com/ pages/Kidney-Health-New-Zealand/

Kidney Health NZ Level 1, 230 Antigua Street Christchurch T 0800 Kidney / 0800 543639 E info@kidneys.co.nz www.kidneys.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 67

Real Estate | Iron Bridge Property Group

A step above the rest Buying or selling a house can be extremely stressful and one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. Thankfully Iron Bridge Property Group is different to other real estate companies and will help make the process as easy and stress free as possible. Iron Bridge Property Group was formed 10 years ago by Brent and Sue Smith, who saw a need for a more flexible real estate company in the market. It is now run by Brent, Sue, their son Adam and daughter Pam. “We were involved in investment sales when we created Iron Bridge. I wanted to form a real estate company that was different from the rest,” Brent Smith says. “We wanted to have some clear points of difference. Most people think that all real estate agents are the same; with Iron Bridge, we’re not.” Iron Bridge pays its sales team a salary and employs them as sales partners, offering them a profit share when sales targets are met. This creates motivation and a strong team spirit. Smith says Iron Bridge sales partners sell more houses each year than the national average for real estate agents in New Zealand. “Our sales partners are heavily trained and are very much seller oriented. They want to get the seller the best price, so we always put a price on our houses. Auctions are not for everyone and if you know your market well, you should be able to put a price on it.” All advertising and marketing services with Iron Bridge are free of charge. The company does not hold open homes, but will arrange viewings as needed. Prospective buyers are pre-qualified before they view your home, with honest feedback given after the viewing. Smith says having no open homes means only genuine qualified buyers will go through your house, with your possessions not susceptible to potential theft during open homes.

“

Client testimonial “I have already referred a friend to sell with you. “Thank you Eden for the work you have done in selling my house so quickly. You have been professional yet friendly and easy to talk to, with excellent communication at all times. “I loved your approach of only bringing through qualified buyers which meant no time was wasted. You managed to achieve my desired price within the first week of going to market. “I have already referred a friend to sell with you and would not hesitate to recommend Iron Bridge to other people.” - B McPhail, Christchurch

Iron Bridge director Brent Smith

”

Iron Bridge director Brent Smith, right, with another happy customer in his new home

68 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Real Estate | Iron Bridge Property Group

100 percent occupancy promise

tenants that it offers a two-year 100 percent occupancy promise for new clients.

Many landlords don’t have time to manage their rental properties properly and are choosing Iron Bridge Property Group to help make sure their tenants are happy and their rental properties are well looked after. Owning a rental property is a great way to invest in your financial future, but only if your rent is being paid. The Iron Bridge property management team is so confident it can find and retain quality

“

That means if your rental property is untenanted or if there are any arrears during the first two years, Iron Bridge will pay the rent. The company’s property management division takes care of the day-to-day hassles that landlords face. It offers free property appraisals to ensure your property is rented at competitive market rates. Iron Bridge managing director Brent Smith says the company has a clear fee structure for landlords. “We have eliminated all the little fees; it’s clear as to what our costs are,” he says. “Property owners know what they will be paying at the start of the year.”

“Paul and his team at Iron Bridge first approached us from when we had our property advertised privately and then consistently and politely kept in touch. “The Iron Bridge approach was refreshing and didn’t carry any risk as we didn’t have any up front costs and didn’t have to pay for our marketing. We also had a tenant in place and felt Paul’s recommendations around that would work best. “The sale was likely not one of Paul’s easiest. We had two good offers early on and after accepting one, it unfortunately fell over. Paul never gave up and kept going until he found another buyer and again negotiated a great price. A similar property to ours in the same complex sold days apart from us and Paul negotiated an extra $37,100 than the other agent.

Iron Bridge only manages high quality investment properties, which attract goodquality tenants.

“

“Selling a house can be a stressful event in anyone’s life, let alone trying to do it from 12,000 miles away. But Iron Bridge have set new standards in service and support that were nothing short of breath taking. “Not only did Desere robustly assist with an awkward property management situation, but she tirelessly supported both myself and my parents as we worked through resolving EQC related and insurance issues.

“We would have no hesitation in recommending Paul and the Iron Bridge team to anybody looking for a great real estate experience.”

“She carried out her work with unquestionable integrity and professionalism, her knowledge and dedication went far beyond the call of duty and she was always prompt and helpful in all communications. Best of all, she negotiated and achieved my asking price.”

- M and H Cross, Auckland

- S Miles, Christchurch

”

Iron Bridge Property Group is a family business, owned by Brent and Sue Smith, right, their daughter Pam Marshall and son Adam Smith

The Iron Bridge approach was refreshing and didn’t carry any risk

The team can help make things even easier for landlords by arranging to pay water and rates bills on their behalf, provide regular lawn mowing, arrange repairs, maintenance and minor improvements, and arrange rental insurance. Iron Bridge Property Group oversees a $550 million portfolio of residential investment properties in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, ranging from apartments to large family homes. Iron Bridge strives to offer a higher level of property management service than other real estate companies. In fact, it is so committed that it offers six weeks’ free property management if any of its promises aren’t met. >

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 69

At A Glance | Loving Tributes Pet Cremation

Real Estate | Iron Bridge Property Group

Fond farewells We spend a lot of our time bonding, caring and loving our cherished pets as much as we do with many human relationships. Loving Tributes Pet Cremation is dedicated to providing your pet with the dignity it deserves when the time finally comes to say goodbye.

Iron Bridge has met the need for a flexible real estate company that is different to the rest

Helping Kiwis grow their wealth

Iron Bridge can offer advice on:

The Iron Bridge team has been helping clients build wealth through investment property for more than 10 years.

• Design and features to incorporate when building

• Investment property location

• Ideal tenants The company focusses on quality subdivisions, • Protecting your property investment with an emphasis on new three or fourbedroom free-standing homes aimed • Ongoing management of your at the family rental market. investment property. Iron Bridge Property Investment helps New Zealanders find the right investment properties to secure their financial futures. Its approach is conservative, ethical and tailored to your needs. The company won’t rush you, and won’t recommend something you can’t afford. Staff make sure investors have all the information they need to make an informed decision. Choosing the right property investment can be daunting. There are many factors to consider, from location to tenant selection, affordability to tax benefits.

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Established in 2005, and situated on a peaceful two acre property close to Lincoln, Loving Tributes carries out a personal service of individual cremations – this means your pet is cremated on its own with no other pets in the cremation chamber. Loving Tributes is the only service of this kind in the South Island. The business runs its own engraving service which allows all urns to be engraved onsite. This means pet ashes can be returned to their owners quickly, and with a signed cremation certificate. A range of urns are available, with pet cremation pendants being a new addition.

Iron Bridge holds long-standing relationships with a range of trusted thirdparty advisors who can help with sound, impartial advice on: • Tax benefits relating to property investment • Finance for property investment

Owner Gaelynn Beswick makes a difference during this heartbreaking time; she understands the importance of saying goodbye to your beloved pet in whichever appropriate way you choose. “While most people prefer to bring their deceased pets to us directly, we do have a pickup service from home or vet if required. If picking up from a vet, it is essential that people ask for Loving Tributes if they require our service with the individual cremation,” Gaelynn says. Gaelynn, who cremates each pet herself, has experienced her own grief with family members, both human and pet. “With my background in counselling, I understand the depth of emotions when a loved animal dies. People speak with me on the phone and see me when they bring a pet in.” She adds that there is a possibility of a Pet Loss support group in the future. “What I do feels more of a vocation than work. I couldn’t think of anything else I would rather be doing. I believe animals are wonderful teachers with their unconditional love, loyalty, humour, living in the moment and honesty.

• Investment property insurance • Development and construction • Property valuations.

“Honouring their passing and the sacredness in doing so, may not be understood by everyone, but is by those who have a connection and relationship with their pet.”

Iron Bridge Property Group 1/130 Riccarton Road Christchurch T (03) 961 5333 E realestate@ironbridge.co.nz www.ironbridge.co.nz

Loving Tributes Pet Cremation River Road R.D. 2 Christchurch T (03) 339 2540 E lovingtributes@xtra.co.nz www.lovingtributes.co.nz

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Real Estate | Mike Pero Sockburn

Mike Pero’s new suburban connection Selling your home with Mike Pero Real Estate means you’ll not only be paying lower fees, but you’ll also benefit from the respected Mike Pero brand and its superior marketing. Mike Pero is a name that New Zealanders have associated with real estate since the early 1990s. The brand has helped more than 80,000 New Zealanders into their own homes.

New Sockburn office Mike Pero has recently opened a new office at the Sockburn roundabout in Main South Road, Christchurch. The franchise is owned by Paul Blackler, who has considerable experience selling both commercial and residential real estate. Blackler is thrilled to be selling real estate under the Mike Pero name, saying the company is an innovative industry leader. “I love the Mike Pero brand and the way they do their advertising; our marketing is considerably better than anybody else’s,” he says. “We offer free TV advertising, which is great for people who are not actually in the market and don’t read property magazines.” Mike Pero also charges just 2.95 percent in fees, which Blackler says is a fair and reasonable rate.

Selling and buying with Mike Pero Mike Pero Sockburn gives home owners an accurate and honest appraisal of what their home is worth in order to get a quick and positive sale. Blackler and his team are happy to give potential customers a free, no-obligation market appraisal of their home. “My catch phrase is ‘decide on results and call Paul Blackler’. I’m a relaxed individual and I don’t get too stressed, which customers usually like,” he says. The Christchurch property market is strong and Mike Pero Sockburn has enjoyed good sales since it opened in early July. “We provide a very professional service and we’ve got the best marketing around. Mike Pero is a long-standing, highly respected brand in the real estate funding industry, and the launch of Mike Pero Real Estate in 2011 has shaken up the real estate industry,” he says.

We provide a very professional service and we’ve got the best marketing around. Mike Pero is a long-standing, highly respected brand in the real estate funding industry, and the launch of Mike Pero Real Estate in 2011 has shaken up the real estate industry.

”

“Ownership of the Sockburn franchise is something I take pride in. I’m very keen to be your first port of call when it comes to real estate.” Blackler’s territory covers Sockburn, Upper Riccarton and Broomfield, although he can list properties anywhere in Canterbury.

Cheaper fees with Mike Pero Mike Pero launched his real estate company because he believed New Zealanders were paying too much in fees.

Mike Pero Real Estate’s new office in Sockburn

Today Mike Pero is recognised as one of the best options when it comes to buying or selling real estate. The company is acknowledged as a leader in marketing, with a commission/fee structure that comes in well below others.

“

The company charges just 2.95 percent plus GST for sales up to $390,000, and 1.95 percent after. These fees are one percent less than some other national Real Estate companies, which equates to a huge saving for the vendor.

The team at Mike Pero Property Management focuses on managing rental properties and the relationships between landlords and tenants. Their job is to help you enjoy maximum returns from your investment, and keep your investment property hassle free.

Managing your investment property Mike Pero Sockburn offers a property management service at great rates, for busy landlords who want their rental properties well managed and cared for, but don’t have the time to do it themselves. Landlords who choose Mike Pero Property Management are choosing a quality service. They receive expert advice and current market knowledge, which enables them to plan long term.

Mike Pero Sockburn 158 Main South Road Sockburn Christchurch Free 0800 SOCKBURN T (03) 390 8865 M 0275 288 865 E paul.blackler@mikepero.com www.mikpero.com — Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 71

Deconstruction | Dcon Demolition & Deconstruction

Stepping up to the mark How a company and its industry has arisen after finding itself front and centre when a city needed it most.

When Mother Nature aggressively awoke our city from its slumber at all hours on an otherwise inconspicuous morning on September 4, 2010, she caused the kind of upheaval which one only ever expects to experience through the safety of the media lens. And that was only the beginning. Evolutionary instinct kicked in, triggering a flight or fight response which has seen

the city pick itself up and shake itself off in an exceptional way and, like one of those proverbial lights at the end of a dark tunnel, we began the immeasurable task ahead of us – the rebuild. Mother Nature had great plans for the demolition industry and, when February 22, 2011 hit, the profession got the shakeup it needed. Not only did the entire demolition and deconstruction industries face a natural disaster of epic proportions, but it had to grapple with roadblocks – in both the literal and figurative sense. But true to form, our Kiwi pioneers prevailed, commandeering the bureaucratic and legislative changes in a ‘when the going gets tough, the tough get going’ kind of a way. It was survival of the fittest in its greatest form – and those who weren’t up for the challenge, are no longer. Christchurch would never be the same again. After February’s 6.3, cordons and checkpoints were quickly established within the Four Avenues and our southern central city, manned by the New Zealand Defence Force and the New Zealand Police. “Some of our guys were the first at the CTV site,” DCON Demolition and Deconstruction managing director Jeff Hingston explains. “It was demolition companies and local contractors who were working in the CBD as an important part of the search and rescue role, because it was these guys who had the machinery and equipment to do the job.

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72 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Then in 2008 the recession hit. Like with any economic downturn, construction – and therefore deconstruction – is one of the first and hardest hit. Even the big players were laying workers off and Jeff was just in his second year of business. “It was a steep learning curve, that’s for sure,” he says of the experience. But of course, the recession was a walk in the park compared to what was to come.

“

For the next 12 months our lives were inside that cordon.

”

- Jeff Hingston, managing director, DCON Demolition and Deconstruction

Demolition services at a glance • Commercial/industrial • Technical/advanced

“Initially after the earthquake we were all working under Civil Defence as contractors. There were companies who were traditionally commercial competition all working together, sharing knowledge and support and it was that camaraderie that got a lot of those guys through.

• Residential/rural and hill work

“For the next 12 months our lives were inside that cordon.”

• South Island wide service.

Jeff established DCON Demo in 2007 to provide commercial, industrial and residential demolition, excavation and cartage services to the Canterbury district.

We supply:

He’s spent his whole career in the demolition industry, including 10 years as foreman for one of the significant local players and, it was in 2007 when he decided it was time to ‘put up or shut up’. Thankfully, ‘put up’ won.

• Salvage • Asbestos removal • Concrete breaking • Onsite crushing

Prior to commencement of any demolition project DCON Demo will: • Organise the safe disconnection of all services to the building

Little did he know what Mother Nature had in store for the demolition profession in our southern city.

• Provide all necessary consents

“We started the business on a shoe string budget in 2007, with nothing but a clapped out truck we bought from Auckland on Trade Me,” Jeff laughs.

• Safely secure the entire site with security fencing and barricades

“It took two days to get it down here because of all the breakdowns.”

• Provide and implement an approved traffic management plan

• Provide a full work scope, methodology and site specific safety plan.

Deconstruction | Dcon Demolition & Deconstruction

“ Excavation services at a glance After many of DCON’s demolition projects the company has remained onsite to provide the excavation and site works for the new development. With its modern, well equipped earthmoving machinery the team can carry out any bulk excavation accurately and efficiently to meet your requirements. • Earthmoving • Land and site clearing • Tree, shelter belt and stump removal • Logging and portable milling • Quarry/river extraction • Overburden removal • Onsite screening and crushing • Rock breaking • Construction of building platforms – laser levelling • Access tracks/forestry roads • Shingle and soil supplies.

Line in the sand The earthquake drew a line in the sand, changing the demolition and deconstruction industries forever, Jeff says. Big players from throughout the country arrived on our doorstep and suddenly the industry that had been a law unto itself, up until that moment, was thrust into the limelight. “In the old school generation you would be onsite first with no builders or trades, your job was simply to clear that site,” Jeff says. “Today the demolition contractor is responsible for everything related to that building – service connections, plumbing, even liaising with the council over the footpath – you’re responsible for all these processes before you’ve even stepped onto the site.”

Staff training is more front of mind than ever before. “Demolition is so much more involved than I think anyone realises, but I think people are beginning to realise the intricacies involved. It’s not just about tearing down a building.

One of the positives to come out of the earthquake was that the spotlight was put on the health and safety aspects of demolition and the industry has stepped up to the play. - Jeff Hingston, managing director, DCON Demolition and Deconstruction

”

“When a multi-level building has been irreparably damaged and needs to come down, ensuring that building comes down safely is all down to the skills of the company behind it.” Working at heights using winches, harnesses, lifting and cutting gear, as well as the inherent risk associated with demolition work, including possibility of falls and unplanned building collapse, means demolition workers must be highly trained and follow New Zealand health and safety regulations and the codes of practice and relevant industry standards and guidelines. “One of the positives to come out of the earthquake was that the spotlight was put on the health and safety aspects of demolition and the industry has stepped up to the play.” Site Safe offers the construction industry a tiered accreditation programme which recognises the companies which are performing at a high level. The Construction Safety Charter Accreditation Programme ensures members are performing at a high level of site safety, in all facets of planning, communication, monitoring and accountability. DCON ensures its site foremen all hold a Site Safe Supervisor Gold Card. This ensures they are up to date with the very latest safety practices and must be updated at least every two years. “Our guys are some of the best and most experienced operators in the industry and have all completed advanced professional operator and driving training with National Qualification Certificates,” Jeff says. DCON is also an accredited CERA contractor, authorised to undertake both full and partial demolitions and create safe sites. All contractors who apply for accreditation are individually assessed by an independent panel.

Although it has increased organisational administration in a significant way, Jeff says it’s a positive step forward for the industry. “Keeping up with your risk and planning obligations and the high verification and accreditation processes has weeded out the cowboys,” he says.

DCON Demo is also a member of the New Zealand Demolition & Asbestos Association (NZDAA), a national body that represents both the demolition and asbestos industries, ensuring it is operating at best practice. “This is essentially like an industry watchdog led by contractors,” Jeff explains.

“That’s all the work behind the scenes, before you’ve even put the effort into securing the work.”

Importantly, the training organisations have had a hand in the increasing recognition of site safety, he adds. “The training

organisations have really stepped up as well and now we have staff coming through the system who are proactive about training and that can only be a positive for the industry.” The removal of asbestos is also becoming an area of increasing importance. Until the late 1980s, more than 3,000 products containing asbestos were used in housing construction. When renovating or demolishing older homes, there is a high probability of encountering asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that were commonly used in residential construction.

For all your traffic management requirements in Christchurch and throughout the Canterbury area.

Asbestos-containing materials must be removed and disposed of by trained and qualified workers before renovations or demolition begins. There’s always a member of DCON’s team carrying an unrestricted qualification to handle different types of asbestos. “There are hundreds of buildings which contain asbestos,” Jeff explains. “It’s important that samples are taken and analysed, then it’s about handling this the right way. We can’t afford to demolish a building and then say whoops.” >

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 73

Deconstruction | Dcon Demolition & Deconstruction

Salvaging the scrap DCON offers a broad range of services for any demolition project utilising modern equipment and techniques with specialist attachments to safely and efficiently demolish your structure. Before any building is demolished DCON prides itself on the skills and modern techniques of its highly experienced team to fully salvage and strip out the structure, which is not only good for the environment, but by reducing the amount of waste going to landfills it also provides for future reuse of building materials. DCON’s environmental concerns mean demolition projects should be managed with the aim of recycling as much of the building material as possible such as... • Roofing iron • Native timbers • Joinery (internal and external) • Structural steel and beams • Insulation • Electrical. DCON is committed to preserving the environment and our careful recycling and rejuvenation of certain materials makes many varieties of rare native and exotic timber available for the everexpanding restoration market which is precious in the rebuilding of our city.

Highly intensive field Much like construction techniques have evolved to create today’s modern and complex structures, so too has the deconstruction industry evolved so these buildings can be safely and efficiently demolished. The “ball and crane” method has made way for multi discipline, high expertise engineering methods involving man, machinery and explosives. One example of the highly intensive demolition field is the demolition of Rangiora’s Farmers department store – closed for more than two years after the Canterbury earthquakes – completed recently. Farmers and the property owners, Mandeville Properties, announced in June the planned redevelopment of the landmark department store was to go ahead and the site is being prepared for a 12 month construction period expected to commence in January 2015. The demolition was a long time coming Jeff says, but he describes the job as both satisfying and rewarding. “The Farmers department store had been the hub of the shopping district for Rangiora for many years, then it was completely shut down. So there was intense interest around the job and a high level of input from the community and the council. “I think because it sat there for so long out of use, it was like it was mentally preventing the township from moving forward, so it’s exciting to see the progress being made in its main street.”

AQARL

The company worked hard to cause the least amount of disruption to the neighbours during the project and Jeff says because of the significance of the building, it was important that the demolition was carried out in a respectful manner. A decent sized crowd gathered to watch the last and “most poignant moment” in the demolition – when the historic front façade came down. “This demolition represents a massive step forward for Rangiora.” But Jeff was too busy concentrating on the 1,000 tonnes of concrete bearing down on him to notice the crowd. “When there is 1,000 tonnes of concrete bearing down on you ... you're watching 10 things at once.” Eighty percent of the building’s materials were recycled, including a significant amount of native timbers, during the

demolition, something which is close to Jeff’s heart. Currently most demolition waste is sent to landfill and DCON Demo is working hard to mitigate this as much as possible. Technologies have been developed for timbers to be turned into wood chips and bricks and concrete are beginning to be crushed up for rural applications. “This represents just a very small portion of the waste from a demolition site. Further developing new and unique ways to recycle larger amounts of this waste is really important to us,” Jeff says. “The residual portion of waste disposal is an increasing issue as landfills only have a finite lifespan. As an industry, we need to start planning ahead and finding an end use for that product.”

ABSOLUTE QUALITY ASBESTOS REMOVALS LTD At AQARL we do all aspects of the Safe Management, handling and removal of asbestos. Commercial, Residential and Industrial, both in New Zealand and Australia. We are licensed for both countries and have $10,000,000 in Asbestos Liability Insurance. Our asbestos removal is safe and effective leaving you with peace of mind and a safe foundation for progress and development. You can be sure your asbestos removal requirements are safe in our hands. For more information contact Michael: 0223400524 or email: qualityasbestosremovals@gmail.com

74 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Deconstruction | Dcon Demolition & Deconstruction

What’s next for DCON?

Cartage services at a glance

It’s been four years since the city was hit by its first life changing earthquake and the bulk of the demolition is winding up. So where does that leave DCON?

DCON Demo’s late model hi-specification truck and trailer units with professional drivers are equipped to carry large volume, high capacity bulk products. This helps to improve efficiency and lower costs by reducing the number of trucking movements per job and particularly reduces carbon emissions. The company is focussed on continual expansion in the cartage industry and will continue to invest in the equipment needed to position itself as one of the best independent operators available.

“When the rebuild began, we didn’t go crazy buying new equipment we couldn’t afford. We increased staff, but we put our focus into working leaner and harder,” Jeff says. “Yes, the peak of the deconstruction phase is over, but there’s still opportunities out there for strong companies.” At its peak, an estimated 150 demolition companies vied for business in the city but as demolition is slowly replaced by construction, many are leaving or diversifying to pursue other projects, freeing up work for the remaining local firms.

• Truck hire • Truck and trailer hire • Transport of machinery • Bulk haulage – South Island wide.

And let’s face it, DCON got through the recession which began in just its second year of business. “We’re professional, we have a methodical way to deconstruct buildings and we’re saving materials from landfill,” Jeff explains. “We work hard ensuring we are keeping our worksites cleaner and safer, from dust and noise and our experience and quality of staff are second to none.” DCON also has a wide range of other areas of expertise to fall back on. The company is also involved in site preparation, foundation slabs, bulk earth moving, forestry and land clearing. “We’ve been involved in some pretty big commercial projects,” Jeff says. Suppliers are a key piece of the puzzle, Jeff says and it has only been by partnering with

like-minded contractors that the company has been such a success. “It’s one of those things, people see a company such as ours on a demolition site and don’t realise that our successful workload is only achieved through the hard work and dedication of a number of other like-minded Christchurch companies. “The ones we do use are hardworking and loyal and these are strong relationships we will continue to foster going forward.” DCON Holdings Ltd PO Box 21 338 Edgeware Christchurch T 0275 681 026 E jeff@dcon.co.nz www.dcon.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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www.faheyfencehire.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 75

Architecture | Ray Hawthorne Design

Building brilliance If you’re looking to hang a gold tag of approval on your new home, there’s no question Ray Hawthorne Design will deliver distinguished architectural homes with quality to match.

The name Ray Hawthorne Design Ltd came about in 2009, having evolved from the original Ray Hawthorne and Associates more than 40 years before. The company offers a creative, effective design solution for clients at a realistic price, whether you have plans to build an architectural home, or complete renovations and additions.

“

Steering the business is owner Ray Hawthorne who has been in the architectural design field, both in Australia and New Zealand, for more than 40 years. About 95 percent of the work carried out by Ray Hawthorne Design is residential, mostly larger family homes, but Ray says they cover everything from granny flats, alterations and additions, to multiple unit developments. The business was forced to move location following the February 2011 earthquakes which red zoned the company's building. A temporary site in Papanui was the company’s home for two years until it moved into a permanent location in Carlyle Street, Sydenham. “We enjoy the vibe of a city location and the central location for clients and consultants convenience,” Ray says. As one of the top talents in the industry, Ray says he is fortunate to have two loyal and competent staff to complete each and every project with the highest of standards. Together with Simon Gundry, who has been working with Ray for 14 years and Will

The main feedback that comes through from clients is that we really listen to what they say and do not push our ideas onto them. We have made our name designing more traditional and period style homes, although our portfolio consists of many modern designs.

”

Dickinson for eight years, the team works methodically to meet client objectives. This combined experience ensures exceptional standards of work from beginning to end, no matter how big or small the project may be. “We liaise with consultants and builders and produce all documentation necessary through to consent approval,” Ray says.

“The main feedback that comes through from clients is that we really listen to what they say and do not push our ideas onto them.

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www.frostandson.co.nz 76 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Architecture | Ray Hawthorne Design

At A Glance | Venture Southland

Harnessing southern stars We have made our name designing more traditional and period style homes, although our portfolio consists of many modern designs.”

Zealand). In 2002 the business won the Harvey (now Gerard) Roofing National Award and the first place prize of a trip to the International Building Show in Las Vegas.

Venture Southland is a regionally co-ordinated organisation giving Southland a unified voice in economic development.

The construction industry is constantly changing and Ray says “The design side needs to keep up. The building code has imposed many changes - particularly post-quake.

“Currently we have a range of work on the board, alterations and additions, townhouse developments and earthquake rebuilds, and private work from 90 sqm to more than 500 sqm.

It works to support economic development across the region to maintain and enhance quality of life and supports a partnership approach towards initiatives for business and community benefit.

“Town planning rules have also added challenges to the decision process. The ever increasing selection of materials and finishes available can be daunting to many clients.”

“We continue to look forward to meeting new clients and being able to offer them great service with imaginative, creative designs for their homes of which they, and us, are extremely proud.”

Venture Southland is a joint initiative of the Invercargill City, Southland District and Gore District Councils, and is the agency responsible for the region’s economic and community development initiatives.

It takes a dedicated, passionate and hard working team of designers, consultants and builders who are attuned to the evolving needs of clients to create your perfect home with your best interests at the heart of the project. Why settle for anything less?

Established in July 2001, its unique model is known throughout New Zealand as a positive example of regional co-ordination and co-operation. It promotes the benefits of an integrated approach and community organisations working together and leveraging support and resources.

One of the recent projects Ray is particularly proud of is the rebuild of a historic country homestead not far from the Greendale Fault. “This we believe was the first architectural rebuild after the September quake. The concept of an earthquake rebuild of this size was new to both us and the project management organisation co-ordinating the rebuild on behalf of the insurance company. “The fact that both the house and garden were historically listed meant very careful planning of the design and build. Having such delightful clients and a co-operative PMO (project management office) moved the project to the best result imaginable. “A lot of the magnificent timber work, stairs, beams, doors etc from the original building was reused in the new design.” The company has collected various prestigious awards during the years, including Master Builder awards and awards from ADNZ (Architectural Designers New

Clients approach Ray Hawthorne Design in the knowledge that their design will be personally crafted to their brief; with function, convenience and value for money our over riding consideration. Give Ray Hawthorne Design a call today.

Ray Hawthorne Design Unit 4, 106 Carlyle Street Sydenham Christchurch T (03) 365 1333 E info@rayhawthornedesign.com www.rayhawthornedesign.co.nz — Advertising Feature

“Our overall purpose is to promote Southland, facilitate economic and community development opportunities and add value to the region,” Venture Southland communications manager Phil McCarthy says. “Southland faces many opportunities and challenges relating to infrastructure, services and workforce, which we address at a regional level. The Venture Southland Business team works closely with industry sectors, training and educational bodies, and local and central government agencies.” Promoting Southland as a region in which to live, work, play, study and visit is another integral part of Venture Southland’s activity. Venture Southland offers significant regional projects such as the Topoclimate project and it also provides support to businesses through the Regional Business Partner Network, Business Mentors New Zealand and other business support programmes. “Canterbury South is an initiative developed by Venture Southland as a response to the

Southland business community who are interested in opportunities to contribute towards supply of quality products and services required by the Canterbury rebuild. “Canterbury South continues to forge high quality and sustainable business relationships with key organisations, including the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA), the Christchurch Central Development Unit and Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce.” Southland was chosen in July 2014 by the government to establish a Regional Renewable Heat Hub. This is a $1.5m project across three years (2014-2017) addressing supply and demand issues and overall viability of waste wood as a heat source. “Southland has several organisations considering wood as a more environmentally and financially sustainable source of energy. We have some innovative processors turning waste wood and other biomass into user friendly forms of fuel. We also have the engineering capability to design and install the technology needed to utilise this energy. “Venture Southland is focussed on several dairy sector projects and each project focusses on a different aspect of Southland’s largest industry - employment, workplace efficiency and environmental efficiency – in an effort to make real gains on the balance sheet, on the farm and in the minds of young people considering a career in agriculture.”

Venture Southland 143 Spey Street Invercargill T (03) 211 1400 E info@venturesouthland.co.nz www.venturesouthland.co.nz — Advertising Feature

If It’s Metal We Make It

32 Spey Street, Invercargill P. 03 214 4817 | F. 03 218 3354 E. info@crownsheetmetal.co.nz

NEW ZEALAND

www.crownsheetmetal.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 77

Architecture | Aridium Designs

Designers and craftsmen If you’re about to start up a small business or revamp your existing enterprise, Aridium Designs is your first stop.

Their goal is that each product embodies integrity, originality and a love of design that speaks to your customers.

Why not streamline your branding, along with your physical space, to speak to your customer?

These are available through the company website. With a wide range of sustainable materials and unique finishes, there will be something to suit a variety of pallets.

Aridium Designs is a full service design company specialising in hospitality, commercial and retail spaces.

The company was formed in 1999 by Troy Gutry, who sought to start a business with a foundation built on relationships formed with fellow makers and fabricators; real people who are accountable and passionate about their trade and most importantly, their clients.

This year has brought new and exciting products from the Aridium team, which now offers commercial and residential 3D fretwork partition screens.

Aridium Designs offers specialist concept to completion services. These include the architectural design, fit-outs, branding and signage.

Aridium can do signage for:

Aridium Designs can help transform your retail space

Based in Christchurch, Aridium offers a bespoke, bare-knuckled and straight forward approach to high end design, focussing on unique and highly customised interiors, furniture, product display, lighting, branding and signage.

New partition screens

• Restaurants • Bars • Cafes • Retails spacés • Receptions • Hotels and motels • Education spaces • Medical spaces. <

Screen designs by Aridium

119 Blenheim Road, P.O Box 8621, Riccarton, Christchurch Tel: 03 343 4448 E: kendons@accounting.co.nz www.accounting.co.nz

Pleased to be associated with Aridium Designs. Providing the right advice to continue Aridium Design’s growth and development.

A 3D fretwork partition screen by Aridium Designs

Aridium Designs 75 Palmers Road Christchurch T 0800 ARIDIUM (274 3486) M 021 332 380 www.aridiumdesigns.com — Advertising Feature

Christchurch East Yoga We are a small, friendly, purpose-built and fully equipped Iyengar yoga studio

Roydon Turner Builders Ltd, for all your residential building needs Proud to be associated with Troy Gutry and Aridium Designs

We invite you to share our yoga experience in a warm, modern studio offering a wide range of classes to suit students of all ages and capabilities. Colleen Adamson Mob: 0274-750-090 E: coladdie@clear.net.nz Anne-Marie Tweedie Ph: 03-388-9080 E: amtweedie@clear.net.nz Frances de Haas Ph: 03-313-6773 E: a_dickson@clear.net.nz Hollie Tang Wilkinson Ph: 027-341-4535 E: hollietang@gmail.com

027 440 0235 | roydon.louise@clear.net.nz 78 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

christchurch-iyengar-yoga.co.nz 38 Bowhill Road | North New Brighton

LIKES

www.aridiumdesigns.com

Decorating| Clearwater Painting, Renovating and Decorating

Girl power proves popular Not everyone is comfortable with a male tradesman entering their home, which is just one reason Clearwater Painting, Renovating and Decorating’s team, which includes a number of women painters, is in such big demand. Clearwater believes its team of women tradespeople is a big point of difference for the Christchurch company. Sometimes female homeowners or women on their own feel more comfortable with a woman coming into their home to do work, while others request females because they feel they have an eye for detail and finish. Clearwater Painting, Renovating and Decorating currently employs five women on the tools, as well as site co-ordinator Erin Robinson, who visits the teams on site each day, and Bernadette Kearney, who works as a customer liaison contact and in marketing. “There are not too many women in the painting industry. Our female staff are true professionals who have been in the industry a long time and we value their skills and techniques,” she says.

“

Now we do painting, decorating and all building work. We can do anything from repairing or building a new deck to painting a home’s interior, as well as renovating and construction of any size. - RAEWYN CLEARWATER

”

Large range of services Clearwater Painting, Renovating and Decorating is owned by Dave and Raewyn Clearwater, who employ a total of 20 staff. Kearney says while prior to the Canterbury earthquakes the company was focussed on roofing and internal and external painting, the earthquakes saw a shift in focus to repair work. “We started doing emergency repairs, semi-urgent repair work and then general repairs. More recently we’ve focused on opt-out work, supported by our painting and renovations,” she says. “Now we do painting, decorating and all building work. We can do anything from repairing or building a new deck to painting a home’s interior, as well as renovating and construction of any size.” Clearwater can take care of your residential or commercial job from start to finish and has built up close working relationships with a large range of qualified and skilled subcontractors. The company is closely aligned with Canterbury Cladding, which does all of its plastering and coating work and operates from the same premises.

Kearney says customers appreciate that the company is from Canterbury and employs many long-term staff. “We haven’t taken on many new staff since the earthquake; we’ve had people with us for up to 10 years. We’re well established.” Quality is a big focus for the Christchurch company. “Our motto is that we’d like every home to be finished as if it was our home,” Kearney says. “When we leave it we have to be satisfied that if we were walking into our home or business, we’d be happy.”

Clearwater Painting, Renovating and Decorating Limited T 0800 766 378 E clearwateroffice@xtra.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Kearney says if the scope of the job changes part way through and customers decide they’d like some extra work done, it’s no trouble. “We have the flexibility of staff and labour resources that we can do that.”

Locally owned and operated Being locally owned and operated is a big plus for Clearwater Painting, Renovating and Decorating’s customers.

Canterbury Claddings & Linings Ltd services include: - Interior Plasterers - All interior plaster linings supplied, fixed and stopped - Specialised installers of GIB® Healthy Homes & GIB® Interior Solutions - Certificated by Winstone Wallboards - Fibrous Plaster, Fibre Cement, Cornice & Stipple - New & Existing work and Repairs

03 366 3058 | www.clyne-bennie.co.nz

- Residential, Commercial & Industrial work - No Job too Big or Small - Over 25 years experience serving the Christchurch Market

For quality and service that will not be beaten call Peter Rodda today! Unit 8, 91 Waterloo Road Ph:03 3490655

www.caveman.co.nz

027 436 1272 • plastercom@maxnet.com www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 79

Decorating | T&R Interior Systems

Acoustically engineered interiors T&R Interior Systems understands the importance of interior spaces and strive to do the basics right, first time, thanks to its unwavering passionate workforce. Established 21 years ago in Wellington by Stephen Thwaite, who is still the owner and director today, T&R Interior Systems is a family owned business specialising in acoustic solutions and interior systems for commercial interiors and the fit-out industry.

Its product range includes suspended ceiling and interior wall systems, steel stud, Eclipse office partitioning suites, acoustic panels and thermal and acoustic insulation. With a strong emphasis on architectural specifications and being able to provide innovative design-based solutions, all of the staff share a deep understanding of the wider building industry and the people who work in it. “We work very closely with our customers to help them create quality interior spaces and strive to be a solutions-based supplier. We also regularly consult with some key customers when developing new products,” South Island account manager Scott Bennett says. Scott says being customer-focussed and solutions driven is the key to business success. “We consider ourselves very much a team who each bring various different strengths and perspectives to the table.

Since its inception the company has spread its wings to now have branches in Auckland and Christchurch with the head office in Wellington. Like many businesses in Christchurch, the company noticed huge growth following the earthquakes and concentrated closely on ensuring its systems and supply chain was robust enough to cope with this rapid growth.

Rangi Ruri Girls’ School

T&R has great support from its suppliers and customers, and very much value these relationships and work hard to maintain and grow them.

INEX Metals Ltd provide a range of aluminium products and services to the manufacturing and fabrication industries throughout the New Zealand and Pacific markets.

We specialise in • Manufacturing custom made extruded products/profiles. • Stocking a comprehensive range of standard extrusions, sheet, coil and plate.

Mashina Lounge, Christchurch

“We also work closely with key suppliers who share our ethics and sense of business to come up with the best solutions, on time, at the right price. We are all motivated by a job done well – the first time. And we have a lot of fun along the way!”

The company worked on the first stages of the Blue Sky Development at Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, offering its C Max Silence Cloud acoustic sound panels to be used as both ‘floating’ suspended ceiling panels and fixed directly to the upstairs raking ceilings in the science laboratories.

“Some very exciting new projects include supplying our new Eclipse aluminium internal partition suites into the new Knox Plaza development on Victoria Street, plus a suite of acoustic solutions chosen by Acoustic Engineering Services for the new music and drama department at Rangi Ruru Girls’ School.

These panels provide a much needed sound absorbing element in interactive teaching spaces, while maintaining a high level of design aesthetic and finish.

“We have recently formed a PPP (private public partnership) with the Engineering School at the University of Canterbury, where we have provided funding towards building a full sized testing facility to test acoustic ceilings.

“We had to come up with colour options that fitted with the overall design while maintaining the high performance acoustically. We also worked closely with the contractors to develop and refine all the fixing systems. “The job was delivered on time, the panels help create healthy learning environments by reducing the sound reverberation in the classrooms, and they look great,” Scott says.

114 Wigram Road, Sockburn, Christchurch Ph: 03 341 5402 F: 03 341 5404 E: ch.sales@inexmetals.co.nz

• Providing an indent service for non standard and hard to get aluminium products. www.inexmetals.co.nz

80 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Specialists in Aluminium

Customer satisfaction is paramount in business and Scott says that by maintaining good stock levels, running its own local delivery service for easy site deliveries within the city, as well as clear communication and co-ordination between the team, its customers and suppliers ensures satisfaction in conjunction with great results. One of T&R’s recent business developments include expanding its range of high performance acoustic solutions and rolling out a series of seminars and ebooks - “Acoustic Solution Series” on the science of acoustics.

“We are also working with PhD students on product testing and development of some exciting new products and systems which we are very excited about and look forward to bringing to market in the future.” Scott says being a part of the rebuild is extremely exciting and the team shares a love of architecture and design. “We are all proud to be a part of something positive, and truly believe this city will be even greater than it ever was.”

T&R Interior Systems 69 Disraeli Street Addington Christchurch T (03) 366 2507 www.tr-interiorsystems.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Furniture | Harrows Contract Furniture

Furniture that fits We don’t manufacture a lot in New Zealand, but what we do manufacture is quality and high quality at that. Let’s face it, we don’t do things by halves in our little corner of the South Pacific and, just two hours south of Christchurch, there is a company making big waves in our small ocean. Specialising in the design, manufacture and supply of quality commercial furniture for the hospitality, accommodation and civic sectors, the Harrows story is one of local talent, hard work and innovation, and the business has stamped its mark on a large number of commercial projects throughout the country. The family owned business has been manufacturing furniture from its Timaru manufacturing facility for more than 20 years and, with other business interests recently sold, the company is preparing for a new direction. “It’s a significant time of transition for us,” explains marketing manager Mark Suckling. “We’ve been gearing ourselves up for the past 12 months and now we are ready to take Harrows to the next level.” While the Harrows name has been mostly linked to fitting out bars and restaurants and for working alongside designers and property owners to find solutions for project fit outs, Mark says that Harrows current focus is on

developing the company’s own collection of unique New Zealand made furniture. “In the commercial market we’ve always been known to supply a range of conventional hospitality furniture, with the manufacturing capabilities to make customised products to suit on request.

Harrows works a lot with franchises, including the Speight’s Alehouses, Columbus Coffee, Five Stags bars and a number of the Lone Star restaurants and has a lot of experience in furnishing food courts around the country.

Auckland’s Sylvia Park, Mt Maunganui’s Bayfair shopping centre and Richmond Shopping Mall in Nelson, to name a few, “While none of this has changed, recent focus all have food courts completely fitted out by on product design and development has led the team at Harrows. to Harrows becoming known for our own collection of design furniture. “We’ve done a lot of hotel and accommodation work, bars and restaurants, “Harrows strengths are in solid timber and corporate tertiary work and food courts.” upholstery and we’re focusing on these strengths with our product development to ensure we are only bringing unique and Harrows Contract Furniture enduring designs to the market.” 18-22 Redruth Street Timaru All shapes and sizes T (03) 687 7577 With the ability to offer solutions for projects T 0800 142 233 of all shapes and sizes, Harrows Contract E sales@harrows.co.nz Furniture has been involved in a wide range www.harrows.co.nz — Advertising Feature of projects throughout the country.

Working portfolio Harrows has a working portfolio throughout the country: Town Tonic The new Lincoln Road café provides a hint of industrial chic and Scandinavian style. The customised booth seating had the upholstery customised to meet the style the designer was wanting to achieve along with built in LED lighting illuminating the wall behind. Harrows also provided custom made freestanding Scandinavian bench seats, two-tone Hoop Chairs, tables with customised table tops and a window bar table. The University of Canterbury The University of Canterbury hospitality sector underwent a significant refurbishment. Sylvia Park Auckland Harrows Contract Furniture supplied the food court furniture, installed outside of shopping hours by a Harrows team of experienced installers so as not to disrupt normal trading. TeWaonui Forest Retreat Harrows supplied a large proportion of the room and restaurant furniture and the outdoor furniture settings for this Franz Josef Hotel, with most of the products manufactured in-house.

I N D U S T R I A L PA I N T E R S A N D P O W D E R C O AT E R S *FOR A BUCHAN GOOD JOB - SEE INDUSTRIAL PAINTERS & POWDERCOATERS* 70 Buchan Street, Christchurch

03 366 3821 | www.powercoatandpaint.co.nz

For all your Packaging, Hospitality and Hygiene Requirements

Proud to support Harrows Contract Furniture For prompt same-day service: 301 Hillside Road, Dunedin Ph 03 455 5206 Fax 03 455 5250 www.otagopackaging.co.nz 100% locally owned and operated

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 81

Signage | Signtalk

Signs for the times Ross Kircher used to head down to watch local sign writer Morris Whitten as a young lad and, although one could presume that was the defining factor in his choice to follow Morris into the industry, the real reason was actually a little bit unique. “He told me I would never make a sign writer because I’m left handed,” Ross laughs. “But if someone says I can’t do something, I’m going to find a way.” Ross certainly made good on his word… and then some. After a 20 year career in the sign writing industry, Ross went out on his own, forming his own sign writing firm Signtalk and, 10 years later, the company is providing signage for some of the biggest, boldest and brightest new companies around.

And Ross still loves the job as much as he did on his first day. Like the name suggests, Signtalk does the talking for your business through a wide range of signage. Specialising in the design, manufacturing and installation of signage in just about any form, the company has proud displays of its workmanship dotted across the country, all created from its Christchurch base. Yes the striking green lighting display which marks the entrance to the country’s 17 Acquisitions stores are a Signtalk creation.

Then there was the new taste sensation that is SoYo – a frozen yoghurt haven and concept that is raging across Europe and finally made its way to the Land of the Long White Cloud – yes Signtalk was responsible for the striking pink and blue signage which beckons customers into its brightly lit ‘create your own’ frozen yoghurt dispensary. A preferred supplier for the Department of Conservation, Signtalk currently has a significant South Island job currently on the go for the environmental body and, as a preferred supplier for all Westfield malls, Ross’ physical portfolio is brimming with new and interesting projects. There’s not likely many jobs he won’t turn his talented hand to, whether it be building signage, banners or even vehicle sign writing, and the company can cater for small jobs through to extensive sign, display and print projects across many advertising mediums. “We do everything from vinyl cut and digitally printed graphics right through to illuminated sign cases and 3D fabricated illuminated lettering and logos,” Ross says. “Everything is manufactured onsite.” It’s a long way from where the industry was when Ross began his 30 year career. “I started handwritten sign writing through an apprenticeship,” he explains.

Hydrographics

‘The art of Water Transfer Printing’

“We would do the logo on paper and set it all out by hand in those days. Today the entire process is computerised.”

is now at

The traditional hand writing is now a dying art, with few being taught the skill and, although Signtalk has kept up with the latest in technology and equipment, the company maintains the competitive advantage which comes from the ability to hand write signage when needed.

Proud to be associated with Signtalk 435 St Asaph Street, Phillipstown, Christchurch P: 03 377 2070 | F: 03 379 1641 | E: info@powdertech.co.nz

“Nothing is a problem for us. We’re happy HRCHY-AD-Canty-Today-Mag-Sept-2014.pdf to work in with what the client wants.”

www.powdertech.co.nz

The company has progressed as new technology has come along, working hard to maintain a competitive edge in its design capabilities. The main piece of equipment is a large industrial CNC router, or computer controlled cutting machine. Everything is carried out in-house with Signtalk only subcontracting out specialised powder coating, ensuring everything has to meet Ross’ high standards. Quality and communication are the foundations of a good job, he says. “People have a deadline for a reason and people have specs for a reason. We’ve never missed a deadline yet. “There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing a project through to fruition, exceeding clients’ expectations and getting to witness how happy they are with the finished job. “I just love what I do.” Ross is happy to discuss specific requirements, answer any questions or provide a quote for your project, big or small.

Signtalk T (03) 327 5166 M 027 699 2261 E studio@signtalk.co.nz www.signtalk.co.nz 26/6/14 1:09:32 PM

Suppliers of aluminium, brass and copper. Any quantities large or small.

[w] www.littlemetals.co.nz [e] info@littlemetals.co.nz [p] 03 365 7731 [f] 03 365 7730

CMY

Proud to support Sign Talk 82 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

hierarchy.co.nz Call +64 (0)3 963 8031 39 Rossall Street, Merivale, Christchurch --ARCHITECTS / DESIGNERS / PROJECT DELIVERY

— Advertising Feature

Signage | SB Signs

Making messages Vision is the most important of the human senses with some psychologists estimating that we take in as much as 70 percent of our information via the visual medium. How things look, or appear to look, is key to forming a favourable first impression and signage and logo design are often the first thing any potential customer will scrutinise prior to engaging with a company.

Kerry continues that “Often we work late into the night or at weekends, outside of normal business or trading hours to minimise the business down time. But the visual impact of fresh, clean, striking graphics or new signage is phenomenal.” A great example of SB’s very recent work can be found just a few hundred metres from their new premises on Birmingham Drive. The distinctive neon yellow paint work and huge double storey height of hose graphics, plastered on the exterior walls of the

• Vehicle and building signage

- FAITH HARRISON

”

• 3D routed signage • Large format digital printing • Hand-painted signage and graphics

Originally a small family owned firm, SB Signs began trading in 2004. Director Faith Harrison is still very much ‘hands on’ in the business, although these days she has general manager Kerry McRoberts to run the business day to day.

“No matter if we use full digital print, traditional free hand sign writing, computer cut vinyl lettering or laser cut customised back lit lettering… our service and installation is second to none,” explains a proud Faith.

• Logo / brand development

Vehicle livery and building signage is some of the best self-promotional marketing a company can invest in.

• Graphic design

Having just relocated to new and more spacious premises in the busy but popular Birmingham Drive area, SB Signs is superbly placed to handle all signage, branding and corporate identity requirements.

Working under Kerry is a dedicated and passionate team of five signage technicians experienced professionals who translate the vision into physical signage or graphics, as well as completing the installation onto the building or vehicle.

“

S B Signs services:

• Promotion and display • Interior / directional signage • Installation.

Hydraulics building, can be seen from half a mile away. This building is set to become an iconic landmark and reference point for the entire area. Any colour scheme, graphic elements and corporate identity should be consistently applied across the building and fleet of company vehicles. Those vehicular ‘moving billboards’ traverse the city on a regular basis every day and carry on functioning as a 24/7, 365 day a year rolling advertisement for the company.

Flooring Centre managing director, Steve Musson was delighted with the finished results and the quick and efficient manner that the SB team applied themselves to the job in hand. So, in terms of signage design and execution the message could not be clearer from SB Signs.

SB Signs 27c Birmingham Drive Middleton Christchurch T (03) 377 0597 E reception@sbsigns.co.nz www.sbsigns.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

If the company signage and branding looks good, it is pretty certain to ‘feel’ good and if it feels good it will generate confidence and it will be good! In marketing, branding and communications we have all come to learn A reasonable vehicle execution and one which that perception is reality! will work consistently and can be amortised For companies who are happy to merely get over a couple or five years, represents excellent value for money. “Sometimes we do by with minimal corporate identity, poor brand image, low visibility and non descript whole fleets of vehicles in a weekend.” signage – the one stop shop and experienced The Flooring Centre is another prime customer team at SB Signs need to see you… and fast! of SB Signs, who were responsible for developing signage on three sides of its huge In fact you might say - the writing is most definitely on the wall! Blenheim Road store. “Vehicle livery and building signage is some of the best self-promotional marketing a company can invest in,” says Faith.

For Capital Raising, Commercial And Contractual Advice And Business Acquisitions And Sales Contact Claire Evans.

Proud to support SB Signs Limited CLAIRE EVANS, PARTNER T: 03 379 3720 DDI: 03 353 8012 M: 021 288 2298 claire.evans@laneneave.co.nz

www.laneneave.co.nz

The Flooring Centre are proud to support SB Signs

Rothbury Insurance Brokers are pleased to work with Faith & the team at SB Signs & congratulate them on their new premises. Best price guaranteed

Telephone: (03) 348-0639 or

0800 4 CARPET (0800 422 773)

147 Blenheim Road (Matipo Street cnr) New Zealand’s No.1 Flooring Showroom

www.theflooringcentre.co.nz

For specialised insurance advice and advocacy in the Canterbury region Call Don Tennant, Senior Broker 03 363 6335, 021 648 402 don.tennant@rothbury.co.nz

www.rothbury.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 83

Hospitality | The Coffee House/The Villas

The rebirth of an icon There is no question the Canterbury quakes were a game changer. They took from Christchurch an iconic identity, one it had been building for itself since the Canterbury Association settled the surrounding province of Canterbury and gave the city its name in 1848. With the brunt of Mother’s Nature’s force concentrated in our central business district, it was our city’s commercial heart which took a hiding. For some enterprises it marked a period of financial suffering. For some it marked the perpetual movement from physical building to physical building. And, for some, it marked the end.

Fight or flight But giving up is not in the commercial capacity of The Coffee House. Perhaps failure wasn’t written into the rules when this iconic business was established 20 years ago. Perhaps there’s just something unshakeable, something permanent built into the striking hundred year old villa, or perhaps it just comes down to attitude. Whatever the reason, instead of dwelling on the what-ifs, owners Dave McLoughlin and Ben Dunkin saw the earthquake and its resulting damage as an opportunity. It was all about survival of the fittest; a test of our innate fight or flight responses and, thankfully, for Ben and Dave, that response was to fight, in a commercial capacity that is.

Nestled comfortably on the central city’s Montreal Street, The Coffee House is no longer The Coffee House. Yes, not only has the restaurant doubled in size and features, The Coffee House has been rebranded as The Villas, in recognition of one of the company’s most striking features, the two historic villas in which the business has made its home. “We felt the need for a name change because with our increased range of offerings, The Coffee House didn’t fully reflect what we are all about,” Ben explains. “We’ve maintained the ‘Coffee House’ as a by-line as an ode to the roots of the business.” Established in 1994 at its current location, Dave and Ben took over in 2007. But it was following that earth shattering

experience a few years ago that the business began to evolve. “The earthquake had a significant and immediate effect on the hospitality industry,” Ben says. “As a café, we have always been a popular day time destination. After the earthquake more people found us and enjoyed us, so this provided an immediate opportunity to branch out and really step up. “Good food is and always has been our absolute key focus.” While The Coffee House has always delivered consistently high quality food, during the past few years the company has focussed on redefining and improving the dining experience for its guests. Now, not only is the new and improved business open for breakfast and lunch, but high quality dinner dining has become a huge draw card to the central location. It’s still a day time favourite with locals for its fine, unique blend of coffee, home baked cakes and superb New Zealand cuisine, but now The Villas offers so much more. “The Coffee House is very much a destination venue and with our iconic location close to the Arts Centre, we focus on the real service elements of making people feel welcome,” Dave says. “We realised pretty quickly that coffee and café food was one thing, but this was the opportunity to do something even better.”

84 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Main Menu Supreme of Chicken (GF) Harissa spiced with cumin roasted pumpkin, sunflower seeds, preserved lemon & sour cream Crispy Skinned Duck Confit (GF) With potato gratin, buttered greens & spiced plum compote Lamb Shoulder Red braised North Canterbury lamb, served with roasted kumara, wilted spinach, pumpkin puree & an aromatic jus Pork Belly Dashi stock, enoki and shiitake mushrooms, green beans and kaffir scented jasmine rice Market Fish Chef’s daily creation using fresh market fish Venison (GF) Smoked beetroot risotto, black pudding, morello cherries, goat’s mascarpone Homemade Pappardelle With chicken livers & porcini in a rich cream brandy sauce Grilled Haloumi (V, GF) On slow braised puy lentils with baby spinach & herb oil

Hospitality | The Coffee House/The Villas

Victorian charm The charming Victorian weatherboard villa, affectionately called ‘The Yellow Villa’, was where the business was founded 20 years ago. During earthquake repairs, the pair were able to secure the tenancy for ‘The Blue Villa’ at 292 Montreal Street, yes, right next door, which has also been repaired and renovated, with a beautiful sunny courtyard, situated opposite the Christchurch Arts Centre on Montreal Street. “We’ve been extremely fortunate to have been able to remain in our building and to have secured the vision and support of the building’s owner, without which the project would not have been nearly as exciting,” Dave says.

The upstairs space will be available for private functions with a dining space which can be split into three distinct sections for smaller groups, or opened up for larger

The Villas is cementing itself as the perfect location for an evening meal, without losing the comfortable café atmosphere during the day. With a menu like this, who wouldn’t make their way down to The Villas at 290-292 Montreal Street? events, allowing the business to cater for private functions from four to 44 people. “Securing the building next door gave us a real opportunity to build the business, open us up to new markets and really cement our place in the evening dining market, while still maintaining that warm, homely café experience downstairs,” Ben adds. “We can cater to everyone without the feeling of being in a big cavernous bar.” The historic buildings are filled with little nooks and crannies, intimate little dining areas which cater for different groups, including the bar area at the back of 290 affectionately known as “nook”.

The restaurant’s butcher hand picks and prepares only the finest locally grown Angus beef, with a steak menu which allows you to create your own perfect dish. Just choose your prime cut and a delicious partner dish. Adorn your steak with a sauce if you wish. Now the central city has opened back up, the tough times are gone and The Villas team is excited about the future. Plenty of parking is available and the 2014 Christmas Menu is now available on the website; $70 per person for three courses, available from November 17 for lunch and evening bookings, from 12 to 48 guests per group. To book your private function or evening meal, get in touch now. ‘Like’ them on Facebook or visit www.thecoffeehouse.co.nz to see the menus or head to 290 Montreal Street now. Opening hours are seven days a week, Monday to Friday 7.00am to 10.00pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am to 10pm.

The cuisine is an exciting fusion of locally sourced New Zealand cuisine and European influences, with a strong focus on preparing everything on site by hand. The menu changes twice a year and a new steak menu is available on the evening menu from 5pm, with Emerson’s beer on tap.

The redevelopment has opened up new function spaces in the extended premises.

Stepping up

Ph (03) 366 1718

OF COU

“The addition of 292 Montreal Street enabled us to significantly increase our operating space and install a brand new purpose built kitchen, something I know that ourselves and Jeremy, our head chef have been looking forward to for a while.”

The Villas 290-292 Montreal Street Christchurch city T (03) 365 6066 E info@thevillas.co.nz www.thevillas.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 85

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Hospitality | Amross Court Motor Lodge

Downtown delight Hospitality has long been regarded as a trait of the south, a welcoming and inviting quality which seems particularly prevalent in our little corner of the South Pacific. Yet it seems there is a little spot in our southern city which is going just that little bit further when it comes to superior service. Five New Zealand properties made the Expedia website’s 650-strong list of “Insider Select” hotels, which it refers to as a “celebration of hotels with superior service and notable value”. Just one was from Christchurch. Devised by a formula that accounted for expert opinion, overall value and nearly two million verified guest reviews, Amross Court Motor Lodge, nestled comfortably within the tree-lined confines of Bealey Avenue, was praised for its quaint exterior and reviewers were keen to commend its warmth amidst the destruction that surrounds it. Owners Bruce and Sue Richardson took on the closed down motel in November 2010, looking for a change of career and drawn to the appeal of the unique building. “Everyone who walks through our doors is just as important to us as the next person,” Sue explains.

Christchurch city for either business or recreational purposes.” The lodge has a strong corporate base, while making an equally popular destination for international travelers and families alike.

• Phone and broadband Internet – free wi-fi available in every room • Rollaway bed available in most units • Barbecue • Electric blankets and heating

Amross features 14 spacious units which have been recently fitted out with brand new luxurious beds and bedding.

• Hair dryer

There are a wide range of options, with one or two bedroom apartments, the convenience of studio apartments or the luxurious spa unit. There are also wheelchair access rooms available.

• Drycleaning service available

Even the rollaway beds are a step above the rest, with the full sized Sleepyhead beds available if needed. Sky TV and high speed wireless internet are also part and parcel with your stay at Amross. You’d be hard pressed to find anything but positive reviews online. Nate stayed with family in July and described Amross as “exceptional”.

While a prime central location is a key point of difference for Amross Court Motor Lodge, Sue explains that’s not all that sets this popular home away from home aside from its competitors.

“The attention to detail in the rooms was outstanding,” he says. “They put that extra bit of thought and care into everything and with 12 years of hotel experience, I found this to be top notch. The people were also very friendly and helpful and I would highly recommend this place to stay.”

“The way rooms are configured enables us to cater for a range of people and circumstances. Our self contained motel units are a comfortable and family friendly accommodation option for anyone visiting

• 42” plasma TV, 50+ Sky channels, and DVD player

Amross has just finished a complete redecoration.

“We provide clean, spacious rooms, with comfortable beds, large televisions and great showers, but in this industry nothing beats service.”

“We’re really centrally located, which puts us in a fantastic position whether you’re heading north or south. We’re conveniently located close to the city centre, the Christchurch Casino, Hagley Park and the developing commercial and restaurant hub of Victoria Street.

Amross Court Motor Lodge facilities include:

Kylie visited in March and described the service as “brilliant”. “The rooms are big and spacious and are nicely furnished. The gardens are beautifully kept and the whole place always looks appealing. But the best thing about my great stay at Amross Court has to be the wonderful Bruce and Sue who go out of their way to make everyone feel welcome and are always happy to help with any needs you may have.”

• Shower • Iron and ironing board • Guest laundry • Luggage storage • Secure off-street parking • Free daily newspaper on request • Cot, highchair and baby bath available • Babysitting on request • Wardrobes • Free tea and plunger coffee • Continental breakfast.

Amross Court Motor Lodge 61 Bealey Avenue Christchurch central T 03 377 1554 www.amross.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 87

Hospitality | Greystone Wines

Greystone’s global triumph Whether it’s the special combination of soil, climate and water, our innovative pioneering spirit, or our Kiwi commitment to quality, New Zealand wines have an uncanny ability to compete well on the global stage. Yet when it comes to Greystone Wines, the company doesn’t just compete well on the global stage, but rather kicks the competition to the curb. The Waipara vineyard has won the 2014 International Pinot Noir trophy awarded by Decanter magazine, for its Brothers Reserve Waipara Pinot Noir 2012. Decanter magazine is the most influential wine magazine in the world and Greystone faced tough competition from thousands of entries worldwide. Greystone was initially awarded the Decanter Regional Trophy for Best Pinot Noir from New Zealand (over £15). From there it went up against wines from Chile, USA, France and Germany in the international pinot noir final. The small family owned winery from Waipara New Zealand emerged victorious in what has been a great year for its pinot noir. The Greystone Pinot Noir 2012 had already won the 2013 Air New Zealand Trophy for Best Pinot Noir and also “Wines of Canterbury” Trophy for Best Pinot Noir. Dom Maxwell, Greystone’s winemaker, says the award winning 2012 vintage “provided fruit with intensity and vibrancy, accompanied by alluring poise and aromatic abundance”. The Brothers Reserve Pinot Noir comes from the highest block of vines on Greystone’s Omihi hill site with deep limestone soils. “We’re just now seeing the results of the

vines getting down into this limestone and are very excited to see the future for pinot noir from these hills,” Maxwell says. The team of international judges described the wine as having all the classic textural and fruit hallmarks you could ask for in great pinot. Their notes described it as “a delicious wine with real presence, this is generous, rich and fleshy, with lots of bright redcurrant and raspberry aromas and concentrated plum, dark cherry and violet flavours. With an earthy character, smoky oak notes and an interesting savoury element, it’s robust but with very supple tannins, a silky soft mouth feel and a finish full of Christmas pudding spices.” Winemaker Dom Maxwell has been in residence at Greystone since the winery was established in 2004, starting as a vineyard hand after completing his degree in Viticulture and Oneology, with prior experience including stints in Rheingau, Burgundy and Oregon. He went on to become Greystone’s winemaker and in 2011 New Zealand’s Winestate Winemaker of the Year. Passionate about making wines reflective of their terroir, Dom’s attention to detail provides Greystone with exceptional, yet perfectly restrained wines. Everything is handpicked and sorted, with the wines being neither fined nor filtered.

Greystone Brothers’ Reserve Pinot Noir 2012 has won the trophy for Best Pinot Noir in New Zealand (over £15) from there beating out France, Germany, Oregon, Slovenia and Chile in the final to win the International Trophy for Best Pinot Noir!

Southern Pallet Recycling (SPR) are delighted to supply export pallets to an award winning, world class company like Greystone and we congratulate them on their every success. We specialise in both New and Recycled pallets, moving over 120,000 pallets annually. We are a major supplier to the agriculture & horticulture industry and hold key accreditations with Asure-Quality, MPI, ENZA & Zespri. Supplying South Island Wide

Sam Donnithorne 021 114 3089 or enquiries@southernpallet.co.nz 88 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Hospitality | Greystone Wines

“

The low yield regime (crop per hectare of vineyard) keeps quality tight and strong, as much as the season allows. And Dom with his open manner and determination to do things right could not be a better conductor of about 25,000 cases under the two brands.

Behind the bottled brand After searching the world for the perfect place to grow cool-climate wines, the Thomas family established the Greystone Vineyard on the slopes of the Teviotdale hills in the Waipara Valley in 2004. They planted 39 hectares of the 153 hectare property of predominantly north-westerly facing land, concentrating on matching blocks with clones and varieties. The soil types present ranged from light clays through to those rich in limestone content. While pinot noir makes up more than 60 percent of the plantings, the Thomas’ could see the potential for other varieties in the region and planted blocks of riesling, pinot gris, gewurztraminer, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and even a small block of syrah. The Thomas family and friends merged the 40 hectare Greystone vineyard with neighbour Muddy Water’s 12 hectare vineyard and winery operation in 2010.

- Wine writer Peter Saunders

”

Dom Maxwell has had his first season running the dual wine making operation at the former Muddy Water winery. Both the Greystone and Muddy Water brands have been sustained and the wine styles of each have been maintained. In line with its pioneering Kiwi spirit, Greystone is all about doing things just a little bit differently. The winery uses wild yeasts to initiate its fermentations but, more intriguingly, it is also experimenting with more unusual practises, such as vineyard fermentations. This involves the fermenter being placed in the actual vineyard for the entire fermentation period – about 30 days. Greystone believes the native yeasts in the vineyard change from year to year, and as its

aim is to express each vintage in its purest form, that year’s vineyard yeasts are an inherent part of that character. It also leads to a much longer and colder maceration, which Greystone says noticeably improves the quality of the end product. Wine writer Peter Saunders said in the April 2012 issue of MG current affairs magazine, “The low yield regime (crop per hectare of vineyard) keeps quality tight and strong, as much as the season allows. And Dom with his open manner and determination to do things right could not be a better conductor of about 25,000 cases under the two brands.” The director of the boutique wine producer, Bruce Thomas, says “Greystone has often been described as ‘an up and coming winery’ and ‘Waipara’s most exciting new producer. While the awards reflect positively on the quality of our brand, an emphasis on strategic direction also supports our growth. “The objective of all of our team is to make the best wine possible from a phenomenal piece of land on the sunny north-west facing slopes of the Teviotdales in the Waipara Valley with its underlying limestone formation. “We are all passionate about producing wines which are an expression of this special site, none more so than Dom who is making brilliant, textural, aromatic whites and complex reds,” Thomas says. “Then we also apply technology, financial management and active marketing to succeed in a very competitive market and we are doing so in North America, Australia and other markets. “I believe we are showing we have a brand that can survive economic cycles and attract consumer attention; the awards we have just earned will contribute to that.” Greystone’s sales manager, Nik Mavromatis says the award is cementing the region’s reputation for wines on a global stage.

“This just reflects what the world is saying about North Canterbury pinot noir. We’re only a tiny area in terms of quantity but our quality is what is bringing all the recognition for the area.” Winning ways Waipara’sGreystone Wines is not unfamiliar to accolades, with the wine producer earning some of the country’s most prominent awards • Greystone Pinot Noir wins Trophy for Best Wine to drink with Lamb and Gold Medal at Wines of Canterbury award • Greystone Pinot Noir 2012 wins Air New Zealand Trophy for Best Pinot Noir • The Greystone Pinot Noir 2012 was just named one of New Zealand’s Top 12 Pinot Noir and 96 points in Gourmet Traveller • The Brothers Reserve’ 2012 Pinot Noir and Erin’s Chardonnay have just got 97 points each in Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine • Greystone Sand Dollar Pinot Gris was five stars from Winestate and finalist for their Pinot Gris of the year • Greystone Basket Star Riesling won the Air New Zealand Trophy for best Dessert Wine • Raymond Chan gave the Greystone Sauvignon Blanc 19/20. Greystone Wines 376 Omihi Road Waipara T (03) 314 6100 E info@greystonewines.co.nz Cellar Door Monday - Sunday 11.00am - 4pm — Advertising Feature

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 89

Aviation | RepairCraft Nelson

Supporting aviators from the ground up New Zealand has more helicopters and aeroplanes per capita than any other country in the world. We’re famed aviators, so obviously there is a need for a land-based company taking care of our airborne Kiwi’s. Although airborne Kiwi’s maybe be a slight oxymoron, due of course to the lack of ability our most treasured native bird to actually fly, the passion and from the aviation industry has certainly taken off during the years. One aviation business that has this passion in abundance is Repaircraft Nelson. The company was founded in 2007, but current manager Matt Ashton took the controls in 2013, around the same time he and wife were expecting their second daughter. Since his arrival at the helm the company has continued its sterling reputation for quality workmanship and broad knowledge across the aviation board. From helicopters to twin engine planes, the team at Repaircraft, which consists of nine employees mainly of aviation engineering discipline, can handle pretty much any flying machine presented to them… within reason.

“We have growth and expansion on the horizon here at Repaircraft. “The knowledge our engineers possess about the industry is pivotal to our ability to tackle almost any aircraft issue presented to us, many of them have well in excess of 15 years’ worth of experience,” he says. “From complex repairs to full repaints we have the people or the connections to make complete a quality job.”

Professional relationships Repaircraft Nelson would like to thank the support of the following companies: • Aviation Power Supply • Superior Air Parts • Aircraft Logistics • Simply Avionics • Aviation Performance Parts • Pattershall Oil.

Suppliers of Rotax engines, as well as all aircraft metals, hardware and accessories, and an extensive range of R22, R44 and B206 airframe parts. For advice on any Aircraft Logistics products, contact Steve Noad on 03 310 7290, e: stevenoad@xtra.co.nz or visit www.aircraftlogistics.co.nz

Ever since Richard Pearse took to the skies in 1903, we as a nation have followed suit. According to stats from Aviation NZ, we have more helicopters per capita than any other country in the world and there is one aircraft per 1,100 people. So there is undoubtedly a market for the maintenance and care of the aircraft flying above the rugged Kiwi landscape (one of the reasons flying is so popular, logistically the terrain affords flight as opposed to rail or road).

Aircraft Logistics Support Limited Aircraft Logistics Support was initially formed to meet the demand of homebuilders, then in 2008 Steve acquired the stock of Fliteline Services in Christchurch, relocating that to his base at Rangiora Airfield. Building upon this, Aircraft Logistics now has an extensive range of metals, hardware, and aircraft associated accessories. Significantly, they are also an authorised distributor of Rotax engines and spare parts. Steve has a very wide experience and understanding of the supply chain for aircraft parts both in commercial aircraft and GA. His worldwide contacts in aviation supplies his understanding of freight forwarding enables orders to be delivered seamlessly to customers with appropriate paperwork completed, all at competitive prices. Clients include maintenance organisations, airlines, aero clubs, private aircraft owners and home builders.

A history in the skies

Quality Aveo Lights & Strobes, Avionics & Instruments, Batteries, Bearings, Bungee Cords, Composite Supplies, Continental, Controls & Hardware, Decals, Ducting, Duralac, Electrical & Switches, Fabric Supplies, Filters & Fuel Systems, Hardware & Hose, Headsets, Lycoming, Metals & Mounts, Oils & Seals, Paint & Chemicals, Pilot Supplies, Pipe Fittings, Publications, Rotax, Tooling, Wheels & Brakes, Wood Products

Repaircraft is a company built on a solid reputation of handling a wide range of aircraft repairs, and quality is one aspect they will never compromise on.

“

Testimonial “Nelson Aviation College is a professional flying school and Repaircraft have been our preferred maintenance provider since 2007. “Our organisation requires all of our external service providers to deliver systems and support to our operation that meet our safety performance standards. “Our experience has been that the team at Repaircraft are responsive, innovative and keep us informed every step of the way. - Giles Witney, chief executive officer, Nelson Aviation College

”

Based at Nelson Airport the company maintains a fleet of more than 45 aircraft, but always welcome new enquiries. The company’s competitive rates and track record keep many customers making the Repaircraft team as their first port of call. “We have a friendly attitude and a focus on quality. If we can’t complete a job to a standard, we make sure we find a contractor who can help us.”

Other services Repaircraft Nelson provide service and support to a wide range of commercial and private customers. Working together with a variety of other local companies and sub-contractors it offers: • Avionics - inspections, repairs and refits • Interior and upholstery repairs/refits • Certified wielding for fabrication or repairs • Non-destructive testing (NDT) inspections.

Aircraft import and exports

Installations, testing, repairs and maintenance checks a specialty

Contact Lester Hope Avionics Systems Engineer 027 337 5961 lester@simplyavionics.co.nz

Working closely with the New Zealand Civil Aviation, Repaircraft Nelson can offer the ability to import or export aircraft. This could include: • Initial assembly of an aircraft • Raising New Zealand aircraft log books • Disassemble and packing of aircraft for shipping purposes

Supporting RepairCraft 90 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

• Ensure imported aircraft meet New Zealand aviation standards.

Aviation | RepairCraft Nelson

Down time No aircraft wants down time. They just weren’t designed to be down!

Repaircraft can certify maintenance on:

Repaircraft has a wide reaching breakdown, repair service and support, and can fly an engineer in to help whether an aircraft is on the West Coast or the Marlborough Sounds.

• Group 1 and Group 2 helicopters

With Nelson Bays being home to many aircraft owner and operators Repaircraft has a somewhat captive audience of aviation operators using small to medium sized commercial aircraft.

• Turbomecca Arriel series engines

• Group 1 and Group 2 aircraft

From fixed wing to helicopters, the team service almost all requirements and hold the licences to do so. The workshop facilities at the Nelson Airport base allow for structural repairs, refurbishments or modification services on all airframes. Repaircraft also has the capacity to offer painting services, from minor work and touch ups to full re-sprays. Working in-house and with a team of closely knit contractors, the works are often completed within a short time-frame to minimise any down time.

• Group 1 and Group 2 engines • Rolls Royce 250 series engines

• Walter M601 series engines • Piper PA46 series aircraft • Reviews of airworthiness and IA conformity inspections • Propeller dynamic balancing • Helicopter track and balance.

Repaircraft Nelson Ltd Hanger 13 Mclaren Drive Nelson Airport Nelson T (03) 547 5101 E enquiry@repaircraft.co.nz www.repaircraft.co.nz — Advertising Feature

AVIATION POWER SUPPLY Aircraft Engine Overhaul & Repairs Proud to support RepairCraft Nelson Ltd

PO Box 72 862, Papakura, Auckland Phone: 09 299 7800 Fax: 09 298 0880 Email: aviation.powersupply@xtra.co.nz

We are a New Zealand owned business run by an excellent team with several years of experience in the aviation industry. We are the primary provider of the leading aviation lubricant products across New Zealand. Pattershall Oil Ltd is dedicated to providing you with all your aviation oils, greases and fluids with friendly service, speedy delivery and competitive prices. We take all measures to deliver your aviation lubricants promptly and securely and we are confident that you will be satisfied with our services. CAA Part 19F Certified, S1 – Aircraft Parts, S3 – Fluids

A I R

PA R T S

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L T D

Pattershall Oil Ltd is a proud supporter of RepairCraft Nelson Limited

Proud suppliers to RepairCraft Nelson Ltd

www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 91

Community | Canterbury Men's Centre

Harden up? As Sir John Kirwan says in his depression infomercial “I was told by a mate to harden up” (he laughs, then vehemently stresses) hardening up is not the answer. Men generally have the ability to harden up. Countless numbers of men across Canterbury rebuilding our city have toughened up to long hours working in the cold this winter, but it is the opposite, softening up, that men can often use a little help doing. They often need help finding the relevant support services because it isn’t part of their experience and their friendship circles aren’t in a position to inform them. This is where the Canterbury Men’s Centre (CMC) can help. It is a community-focussed project aiming to allow men access to counselling, support and services to ensure their lives are on track. The CMC wants to bridge that gap. It plays a strong role in the male community by offering its services to help men figure out what they need and to make the necessary changes in their lives. Before the earthquakes there were a number of males seeking support, yet after the quakes there has been a sizeable jump in numbers due mainly in part to extra responsibility postearthquake. The number of Men’s Sheds rose from three to more than 20 and continues to grow steadily.

acceptance for many men, not to mention the women love them, as it gets the men out of the house!

Men’s Sheds

Counselling for men

Men’s Shed is available for men to visit and share practical skills whilst also making a few mates.

Counselling for men has grown rather rapidly in Canterbury with around 60 men being seen per week and more continuing to head through the doors.

Each shed has its own character reflective of the volunteer and the attendees. Community health workers and the male community alike recognise Men’s Sheds as a non-intrusive place of real support and social

www.cancernz.co.nz

At Men’s Sheds the focus is on constructive activities like woodcraft, carpentry skills and other practical skills.

CMC manager Donald Pettitt says “We have lots of different guys coming to see us. About half have never talked to a counsellor or social worker before and they seem to get a lot out of off-loading historic and existing situations in a safe environment.”

“

We have lots of different guys coming to see us. About half have never talked to a counsellor or social worker before and they seem to get a lot out of off-loading historic and existing situations in a safe environment.

information provided by the CMC including the man, the CMC encourages people to reach popular The Blokes Book. out and get in touch. The Blokes Book is a summary of relevant health and social services for men and has been roundly supported by community and health funders.

The goal of the CMC is to offer support through one to one or group sessions where men can feel comfortable and confident while they get their life on the right track.

Some 85,000 copies have been printed and distributed in Canterbury, plus an additional 7,000 Chinese copies. The CMC is all out of the recent print run, but you can find them in many surgeries, and community support settings.

This can be achieved by planning and talking to counsellors and also by referring to helpful

If you’re a man wanting to live life more gracefully or you’re worried about another

92 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

”

- DONALD PETTITT

Men’s Support Hub The CMC make it easy for men to find the right support by bringing professionals under one roof that have a focus on improving the lives of men. The Men’s Support Hub project started May 2013. “We invite men to come along and those that care about them to be nosy and see what we are doing here”. An easy way to do that is to call the Canterbury Men’s Centre and have a chat on (03) 365 9000.

At A Glance | Mental Health Advocacy and Peer Support

Community | Canterbury Men's Centre

Roads to recovery Guidance rather than advice The CMC doesn’t give advice, but it does help men frame their options and come up with the pathway they choose that leads them to health and happiness.

The road to recovery can be a long and arduous process during a time when change feels impossible, but with the right people around you as a pillar of support, recovery is easier when you get through it together.

The CMC supports men in Canterbury by: Doing one to one support, helping a man set his goals and pointing him in the right direction. Running projects for men. Men’s Sheds and men’s health events are examples of this. Helping the “systems” to help men. Examples include monthly e-news, subscribed to by 600+ local health/social professionals. The organisation also take calls from workers wanting to find options for male clients. Costs: Planning meeting is free, counselling fees according to capacity to pay.

Canterbury Men’s Centre 357 Gloucester Street Linwood Christchurch T (03) 365 9000 Text 022 302 4966 www.canmen.org.nz Menzshed New Zealand Incorporated T Ray Hall (03) 388 7277 www.menzshed.org.nz — Advertising Feature

Mental Health Advocacy and Peer Support (MHAPS) is a Canterburybased charitable trust. It offers accessible and effective peer services to people who experience mental distress, mental illness and/or substance addiction, empowering them on their recovery journey. MHAPS was established in July 2011 as a merger between three small but successful NGOs (non-government organisations) Anxiety Support Canterbury, Bipolar Support Canterbury and Psychiatric Consumers Trust and it currently supports 1,700 people. “On February 19, 2011, its respective boards and staff held a Visioning Day to look at future ways the three could work more closely together. Then came the February earthquake, and vision was realised more quickly than anticipated,” MHAPS general manager Sue Ricketts says. “Over the past three years, four service streams have been developed to provide easy access points depending on a person’s need and choice: Peer Support, Advocacy, Learning Exchange and a Drop-In centre.” Each of the 29 staff members has regular professional supervision and ongoing training and skill development to ensure its services are the best they can be. The team have had a personal or family experience of mental illness, mental distress or addictions so you can be assured of empathy, an accepting attitude, and openness.

us to pay fair remuneration to our staff and cover our overheads. This is becoming increasingly difficult at a time of rising rent and power prices, and a diminution of available funding sources.” Some 25 percent of its budget has to be raised by other means. “For example our Friends of MHAPS team have opened an art space called Metamorph, which holds twice yearly exhibitions.” She adds that if funding permits, MHAPS intends to initiate a youth-focussed peer support service in response to the enormous demand in Christchurch. “We are currently working on a specific programme for young men whose lives are affected by mental illness and/or substance use.” MHAPS provide a wide range of workshops and classes to assist people towards recovery. Wellbeing workshops rotating around breathing and relaxation, mindfulness, expressive arts and tai chi are offered monthly on Tuesday lunchtimes, and the first two as evening classes. “Next year, we will be reaching out to employers to offer onsite anxiety management workshops for their staff, many of whose underlying panic and anxiety may be impacting on their work performance."

Mental Health Advocacy and Peer Support 826 Colombo Street (corner Peterborough Street) Christchurch T (03) 365 9479 T 0800 437 324 (Rural) www.mhaps.org.nz — Advertising Feature

The common life experiences shared between staff and clients is on the foundation of trusting relationships and support, which nurtures a great deal of strength, motivation and hope. Sue says the main challenge for MHAPS has been attracting sufficient funding “to enable

CWA

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz September/October 2014 | 93

Community | Canterbury Youth Development Programme

Aiding positive change

The CYDP’s values Vision: To provide a youth training pathway that caters for individual development and growth within a structured environment which connects with family and community.

The Canterbury Youth Development Programme (CYPD) is a charitable organisation focussed solely on providing opportunities and support for young people and families. CYDP liaises with the business sector and the community plus local and national government agencies to achieve its vision and mission statements. CYDP is proof that a charitable organisation, if run like a business, can make the community a better place and even save it money. It all began with the Fresh Start Course in 2008 which was incepted to help young people with offending histories to work towards a positive change. International literature states that a course with 30 percent non-reoffending rates is considered world class; CYDP posted an impressive 60 percent rate. Inspiring young people to reject a life of crime and embrace change is the key to reducing the reoffending rate.

This was achieved to a remarkable level with the help of the army, the police, social workers, youth workers, government agencies and community agencies passing on their messages of positive change. In the first year alone, the reduction in crime amongst the target group saved the community in excess of $1 million. BDO analysed the Fresh Start Programme from inception to its finish (February 1, 2013) and conclusions estimates the organisation saved the community over $11.4 million.

New CYDP courses In 2010 the Mana Fresh Start programme was created as a more flexible approach to the Fresh Start programme. Following on from Mana Fresh Start, Te Taaepaepatanga o Te Rangi was developed

Great Accountants Great Results

Mission: To provide the life skills, motivation, opportunities, ongoing education, support and training that will allow young people to successfully take their place within and contribute to New Zealand society.

to address the high levels of offending and incarceration of young Maori. The Mahi Tahi Supported Employment Scheme was then introduced in January 2011 to support young men into employment. It was developed as a joint collaboration with Te Ora Hou Otautahi and provides high levels of support to young people facing significant barriers to employment. It operated successfully until late 2013, and is currently under redevelopment to meet the new demands of the Canterbury rebuild. Re-focus was launched following a pilot test, the result of which indicated there need for a focus on a younger age group rather than the original school Years 9 and 10. Now Re-focus encompasses a lower age range (ages 6-12) and involves the entire family in an attempt to reduce or eliminate offending. Re-focus aims to equip children with the skills and motivation to stay in mainstream education.

One of the main issues facing youth is the transition to independence, luckily CYDP have a programme to help make the transition easier. The Canterbury Community Trust helped to purchase a home for young people in the care of CYF and they also have Youth Justice status. Every effort is made to help the youth of Canterbury adapt and prosper during a tough time for the region and for the youth at a pivotal point in their life’s journey.

Canterbury Youth Development Programme PO Box 16541 Christchurch T (03) 344 0496 E mike.field@cydp.org.nz www.cydp.org.nz — Advertising Feature

Experienced main contractor with a strong track record in successful delivery of community, infrastructure, industry and commercial projects.

Great Support Great People

We offer clients the ‘full suite’ for construction management and physical building.

Great Opportunity to Support Canterbury

7 Vulcan Place, PO Box 1055, Christchurch Ph: +64 3 338-5194 Fax: +64 3 338-8428

Please call free 0800 002 055 www.goodkiwi.co.nz

www.hrsconstruction.co.nz

EARTHTECH LIMITED IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE YOUTH OF TODAY IN LEARNING NEW SKILLS, DOING HANDS ON WORK IN THE DRAINAGE, EXCAVATION AND CIVIL ENGINEERING ARENA IN THE CANTERBURY REGION.

EARTHTECH

18 Klondyke Drive | Hornby | Christchurch 8042 T 03 982 2513 | F 03 982 2519 www.earthtech.net.nz

ARE YOUR IT & COMMUNICATIONS IN LINE WITH YOUR BUSINESS MODEL? “This is the most common issue that business’s face with technology in today’s climate”

DO YOU WANT OR NEED TO WORK FROM ANYWHERE ON ANY DEVICE ALL WHILE REDUCING YOUR RISK AND YOUR BOTTOM LINE? “With over 18 years of experience SHAPEiT specialises in these fields. If your needs are immediate or you just feel that you could make improvements please call us. We can help”

www.shapeit.co.nz

03 377 3874

SHAPEiT Limited - Business ICT Partner

“time to get your IT into shape”

94 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Is your website costing you money or making you money? We specialise iN sites for companies with less that 20 staff.

Our websites start from $1997+gst for a standard business website or full e-commerce site, which means your business can sell products 24/7. Our parent company has been around since 1980. FatWeb, formally known as Treacy Advertising has been running for 15 years, so if you have any issues you can be sure we’ll be here, We have been making websites for more than 15 years - we know what we’re doing.

Did you know...

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If your site doesn’t appear in the first 2 pages when someone “Googles” your industry, you’re missing out on business.

on our Go Live

In fact some studies show that less than 1% of people even look past the second page of Google. We pride ourselves on providing unbelievable SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) which means endeavouring to get your business on the first couple of pages on Google.

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WeBSites...

If you’re not 100% satisfied, we’ll refund you in full, no questions asked.

4 WEEK TURNAROUND We will have your website ready within 4 weeks. All our websites are made in New Zealand. Some web companies get theirs made in Inida.

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no obligation audit of your current website or if you’d simply like to find out more please call us on

0800 444 090 or email our team on

in fo@ .n o c . fatweb

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For a

OUR DEFINing FEATURES One of our defining features is that our sites are extremely easy to manage so you can change your content or photos as often as you like. If you’re able to book an airline ticket online, you can change the content on our websites.

CHRISTCHURCH OFFICES 47B Birmingham Drive, Middleton, Christchurch 8024 112 Buchan Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023 85 Picton Ave, Riccarton, Christchurch 8011

AUCKLAND OFFICE Level 14, 57 Fort Street, Auckland, 1010

gary@fatweb.co.nz | 0800 444 090 |

www.fatweb.co.nz

Hospitality | Aroy Thai Restaurant

96 | September/October 2014 www.canterburytoday.co.nz