Canterbury Today Magazine Issue 161 by Academy Group

MORALITY & MONEY Sam Stubbs on how ethical investing is making New Zealanders richer

Home truths

Fixing housing by changing how we live

Diagnosing the DHB The Government’s treatment plan for New Zealand healthcare

FPAs and the modern workplace

Is another layer of red tape really required?

The

biggest small business challenges

Coupland’s 50 years on

How a Timaru pie shop became a Kiwi success story

The all-natural way

The process of becoming certified organic

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Viewpoints

Management

In Business

Pages 8-24

Pages 25-86

Pages 6-7

Contents MAGAZINES TODAY OVERVIEW Academy Group has grown to be one of New Zealand’s largest privately owned publishing houses, with carefully targeted publications offering in-depth analysis of current issues, exciting profiles, interesting people, and details of the latest projects and products making news.

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6: FPAs and the modern workplace Is another layer of red tape really required? 6:

Social media and George Orwell’s warning The online world really is stranger than fiction

The 5 biggest small business challenges The most common challenges to operating an SME

Why buying a business can be a great investment Reasons to consider investing in a business rather than property

Technology 25: How to be cyber safe

74: Cohesive Construction

26: Streamlining workforce management

76: Murray Hewitt Joinery

Trust is the key to a successful project control solution It’s all a matter of focusing on the things that make a difference

Business Development 28: Building your personal brand

77: The Concrete NZ Conference 2021

Health & Wellbeing 32: The process of becoming certified organic in New Zealand

79: Robbie Dunbar Upholsterers

Destinations 36: Tauranga treasures

Manufacturing 82: MHM Automation – Stainless Division

38: Turn up the heat with a ‘winterless north’ experience

Transport

44: Mid-Canterbury - a must for any South Island trip

84: Global Bus Ventures’ hydrogen fuel cell bus

8: The danger of running a red Why Kiwis keep risking it all

Phone: (03) 961 5050 Email: admin@academygroup.co.nz

9: Lifestyles Items of desire

MAGAZINES TODAY MANAGEMENT

10: Let the question become the answer How to use coaching to build accountability and drive performance

Gary Collins MANAGING DIRECTOR Kylie Palermo GENERAL MANAGER OF OPERATIONS Monice Kruger CHRISTCHURCH SALES MANAGER Jonathon Taylor EDITOR Jarred Shakespeare ART DIRECTOR

ADMINISTRATION Louise Keates Phillipa Cottman

Jo Pritchard Taylar Whight

SALES & ADVERTISING Allan Buzan Connor Phillips Keith Laidlaw Clive Greenwood

Melissa Sinclair Tracy Fickling John Hammond Leigh-Anne Carrol

NEWSROOM Claire Wright Georgina Oldfield

Polly Nichols

PRODUCTION Carolynne Brown

Jessica Ann

PRINTER

ISSN 0113-8340 (Print) | ISSN 2230-6331 (Online)

WWW.CANTERBURYTODAY.CO.NZ

19: Home truths 64: South Canterbury Ara Business Excellence Awards Fixing housing by changing our perspective on how we live 66: Things to see and do in Cromwell 20: No change Construction Are Kiwi companies really ready to go cashless? 67: The Queenstown subdivision preaching affordability 22: Coupland’s 50 years on How a Timaru pie shop became a Kiwi 70: Are our insulation requirements sufficient? success story 72: Weathering the winter

12: Morality & money Simplicity KiwiSaver co-founder Sam Stubbs’ mission to make Kiwis wealthier 16: Monetising Facebook groups Profiting from small businesses 17: Zoom in Does the Cook Islands travel bubble cost Christchurch valuable tourism dollars? 18: Diagnosing the DHB The Government’s treatment plan for New Zealand healthcare

75: LOC Construction

78: The coming changes to the Residential Tenancies Act 80: Making your home a haven

83: Nelson Marlborough Traffic Management

86: Waltham Mechanical auto repairs

Tourism 48: Hotel Ashburton 50: Lake Dunstan’s new cycle trail 52: Eliza’s Manor Boutique Hotel Focus On 56: North Canterbury’s festive delights 58: Rolleston & Selwyn

60: Timaru district road upgrades

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Management | Viewpoints

Leeann Watson

John Shingleton

Martz Witty

Chief executive of the CECC www.cecc.org.nz

Managing director of First Law www.firstlaw.co.nz

Chief strategist at Shi Martz Chartered Accountants www.shiandmartz.co.nz

FPAs and the modern workplace The Government recently made an announcement detailing the introduction of Fair Pay Agreements (FPAs). FPAs are documents that set the terms of employment and conditions of work for all workers in a specific sector, industry or occupation. The Agreements are nationwide and compulsory and are set to be introduced next year. But I don’t believe there is a role – or need – for FPAs in the modern workplace, adding yet another layer of complexity and legislative ‘red tape’ for businesses to navigate.

Social media and George Orwell’s warning In his book Nineteen Eighty-Four, George Orwell introduced us to a made-up language called Newspeak. In the fictional state of Oceania, Newspeak was constructed by the socialist rulers as a simplistic language designed to hide the true ideological intentions of the regime and exercise thought control over the people. For instance, “crimethink” was defined as thoughts and concepts that go against Ingsoc (The English Socialist Party).

That’s why this is an issue that we at The Chamber continue to advocate strongly against.

Such thoughts could include liberty, equality and privacy; in other words, freedom of thought or expression was forbidden.

The introduction of FPAs really goes against the country’s progressive employment environment, effectively taking away the rights of employers to set their own wages, which will be hugely significant for the business community and particularly small businesses who will be the most impacted.

A “thoughtcrime” was the act of having such forbidden thoughts.

We are a country of small businesses. FPAs would force payment of higher wages within sectors which could force some newer, smaller firms out of business, reducing competition, productivity and growth. It would also destroy contracting, as it would cover all contractors in a sector.

Before being found guilty, you could end up at the “Miniluv”, the Ministry of Love where you would be interrogated, tortured and re-educated.

Employee expectations have also changed dramatically from when financial remuneration was the only benefit. While small businesses may not be able to compete with big business wages, they can compete in providing an attractive employment package through the ability to engage in meaningful work, flexible work environments and so on. The worrying aspect of the introduction of FPAs next year is that even if there are only one or two FPAs in the first year, the potential impact goes well beyond that. With the introduction of FPAs, there could be a wage-price spiral, which we have seen in the past, when compulsory collective bargaining led to wage inflation and higher prices, and FPA settlements impacted other sectors, causing wage relativity pressures and increased prices. There is also the possibility of FPA claims spreading rapidly once enabling legislation is passed. Not to mention that we believe FPAs are against international law, which says collective agreements should always be negotiated voluntarily. Standardising conditions across industries and occupations, makes them less flexible, less resilient and ultimately less productive – which is not what our economy needs and especially not now given many businesses continue to face the challenges of a COVID-19 environment as well. This really goes against everything we are trying to do for employment in this country, which is to create a progressive, enabling, supportive environment where businesses – and therefore our communities – are able to thrive.

A “joycamp” was a Labour camp! The “thinkpol”, the secret thought police, were tasked with catching and charging persons suspected of such forbidden thoughts.

If found guilty you could become an “unperson”, meaning you are executed and erased from history and memory. In other words, cancelled. Now, to oversee things, the “Minitrue”, the Ministry of Truth, is tasked with making sure the population believes only the Ingsoc truths, not the actual truth. To do so, history is rewritten to fit the aims of the Ingsoc. “Blackwhite” is defined as to accept whatever one is told, regardless of the facts. If the party tells you something is black, even if it is actually white, it is black… or else. And of course, we have “Big Brother”, with its telescreens which cannot be switched off and records every conversation we have and monitors our every movement. So – does this sound familiar? Well it does to me… and it frightens me. Every day in Oceania, people would participate in a ritual called the Two Minute hate. A different person would be identified as to be hated and everyone could and would let lose. What are we seeing today? Nasty Twitter campaigns against people and their businesses designed to cause the maximum hurt and humiliation. Facebook campaigns against individuals who might have a different political opinion – or just an opinion. Governments and some media outlets promoting concepts such as “our truth”, as opposed to the truth.

The 5 biggest small business challenges As a biz consultant and regular owner of small business, here’s a snapshot of what I have seen as the most common challenges to operating a small business. 1. Getting more customers The challenge here is to attract customers of the type you want to have, not just anyone with a pulse! It’s not enough to place and advert or do a flyer and wait for the customers to roll in. It’s a regular fundamental part of each and every business day.

2. Lead generation Yes, a subset of #1 above, but done correctly this keeps your sales funnel alive with live leads which when correctly dealt with can convert to customers and then clients, even to raving fans. The quick fix on this is to have a system and then work the system. Record touchpoints and then follow up. The success is in the follow up and raising awareness of what you can do to help them.

3. Hiring the right people People and staff are your biggest asset. They can make or break your business. Short term solutions include flicking out a job description, interview and appoint. Why settle for an employee that is “okay” when you can have a great one for just a little longer wait and working an onboarding system? Make sure the applicants fit or even add to your business culture.

4. Managing workflow If you are really good at #1 and #2, then chances are you’re going to experience times where there’s more work than capacity. Fixing this is partly solved in #3. above but it needs to go further. No good having great team if they are feeling pressured and stressed. You need a constant, honest and non-judgemental feedback loop. Most times the staff will have the answers – stop and ask them!

5. Cashflow Frequently a challenge in all sizes of businesses. What is your system to manage debtors’ payments and creditors bills? Are you too soft and let people owe you money outside of your terms of trade? There’s a wonderful calculation you can do that compares the cost of non-paying customers and how many debtor days it takes before you have lost all your profit margin on the sale. It’s quite frightening really and not always a long time (depending on your margins). Are there any miracle cures for these challenges? Not really. Mostly it comes to common sense and operating within a system The secret is to be rigorous and definitive to everyone who falls into the system. Communication is paramount, with your management, staff, customer and suppliers.

The big tech companies using algorithms to ensure we all receive in our feeds the latest “outrage”, so we can all have our two minutes of hate. I better go, something has popped up in my feed.

Helping you make the right choices in business. Level 1, Unit 3 46 Acheron Drive, Christchurch 8040

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Management | Viewpoints

Richard O’Brien

Oliver Greenwood

Manager of nzbizbuysell www.nzbizbuysell.co.nz

Vice president, global sales consulting for Oracle Construction and Engineering www.oracle.com

Why buying a business can be a great investment

Trust is the key to a successful project control solution

There are some great reasons why you should look at investing your money in a business rather than property.

For effective construction project collaboration, teams across the delivery chain must be able to focus their attention on successfully executing work, rather than re-gathering data across multiple systems and groups.

There is the potential to make a much higher return on your money and to spread your financial risk. You also get to become involved in something you're passionate about, and to be part of growing our economy. With current low interest rates at just over two percent, it has made it cheap to borrow money. This coupled with residential property demand out-stripping supply, has created an overly-active property market providing high short-term returns. This activity is unlikely to be sustainable. New Zealanders have always had an active interest in property ownership and renovation, investment and trading. This, unfortunately, has done very little for our economy, and has added to the fire and made home ownership less affordable for many. Our housing has now become a national issue, and the NZ government has taken steps to slow this down, implementing tools to tax this activity (recently NZ has removed tax deductibility on interest costs and an extended bright-line test). With bank returns so low, investors are seeking other options and investing in shares is one of them. More recently we have seen a shift in accessing shares, with digital platforms such as “Sharesies” reducing barriers and making share investment easier and more mainstream. Another option for investing your money is to buy a business. This can be a great option and the returns can be several times that of owning an investment property. Of course, with greater returns comes greater risk. Returns from owning a business can easily outweigh investments in residential property – however there are additional risks that must be managed.

The benefits of owning a business are many Personal fulfilment and financial gain are among the very attractive benefits of owning a business. And when you sell there is no tax on the intangible asset component. Owning (and potentially running) a business will take some skill and serious effort. It can also be hugely rewarding if it’s something you really believe in and are passionate about. In a business, you will need to be involved. If you have a business manager it’s likely to be a more costly business acquisition and will still need to have some input. With smaller investments you are likely to be working in the business, and will be busy with operations, sales and marketing, and staff. This then becomes a “job” plus an “investment”. As with any investment, it is imperative that you do your homework and purchase a business that will work well for you.

As projects grow and supply chains expand, it can fuel greater inefficiency as project teams are burdened with outdated systems that do not support the requirements for true collaboration – devaluing the “single source of truth.”

Improved construction management Construction organisations are facing increased financial risk as they run into challenges that can drive up costs and delay schedules. These challenges, such as inefficient internal and external communication and poor visibility into essential project information, are the shortcomings of organisations continuing to rely on inadequate legacy systems or homegrown applications. A key issue is that such systems are not conducive to enabling user permissions for a seamless collaborative approach with internal and external stakeholders. Most of the time, it is the implementing organisation who configures the system permissions and, ultimately, owns and governs the data and process integrity. This can be a risky approach for the internal team, as they may become inadvertently liable because, given their level of visibility, they cannot claim they did not know something about the project. This approach also puts risk on every other organisation across the project who can be shut out of the project control system at any point, losing access to their data. The result is a lack of trust between project teams, which can then hinder adoption and limit collaboration potential across the project. This inefficiency creates an administrative burden for the controlling organisation, slowing the whole process down.

A better way The alternative approach is a project control system that reflects the base requirements of trust and adoption. That means there is no super-user who can see all information – regardless of access rights – and that the ability to access (and own) information is transparent to the publisher of the data. A project control system should support broad project management and communication needs and provide appropriate levels of security against external threats. It needs to be operated by all parties, not controlled by one firm. It should offer fair and equal treatment of all participants while protecting information rights of each firm. In such a system, information transmissions cannot be amended after the fact, by anyone. It also provides a basis for all organisations to privately communicate and assures participating organisations that access cannot be cut off without due notice.

So, what should you look out for in a modern project control solution?

A property investment is a more passive option that generally requires less skill and risk, and provides a lesser return.

Only project-centric solutions – enabling disparate groups to work together as one – can act as a unifying force to bring teams together. This enables better processes that deliver repeatable, successful outcomes over multiple projects.

A well-run business has more potential - it better supports the economy, provides employment opportunities – and can provide investors with pre-tax returns up to several times higher than property investment.

Businesses can rapidly deploy new projects, adapt to unique and changing business requirements, and improve flexibility – with teams using data rather than collecting it.

If you were looking to invest $750,000, a small business costing $750,000 might well return $200,000 to $250,000 pa before tax. A similar residential property could return around $37,500 pa (after expenses and before tax). A business may also be scalable and can grow, adding further to the value of your investment. If you are after higher returns and a more diverse investment portfolio, buying a business can be a great investment when compared to investing in property. Make sure you do your homework, understand the numbers, and enjoy exploring the possibilities.

The principles of ideal project controls technology work very much like a flywheel. It includes the key tenets of transformation and continuous improvement, data, adoption, trust and good experience. It can start at any point on the wheel with one piece feeding into the next in a continuous flow. The construction industry is rapidly embracing the value of data, but some project teams and organisations remain fragmented, burdened with the ongoing task of interpreting and reporting on data in outdated systems. As a result, the key focus should be leveraging technology to instil more efficient project controls, providing trust and greater collaboration.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 7

Management | Society

The danger of running a RED By Georgina Oldfield

One of the leading causes

Everyday someone dies on New Zealand roads and another seven are seriously injured according to the New Zealand Transport Agency.

of death and serious road injuries are drivers running red lights, yet some people continue to ignore the rules, sometimes not realising the

It’s a figure the New Zealand Government is wanting to eliminate with its Road to Zero strategy – a target to reduce deaths and serious injuries on New Zealand’s roads, streets, cycleways and footpaths by 40 percent over the next 10 years.

devastating consequences it can have until it’s too late.

One of the leading causes of death and serious road injuries are drivers running red lights, yet some people continue to ignore the rules, sometimes not realising the devastating consequences it can have until it’s too late.

the intersection of Gasson St, Madras St and Moorhouse Ave.

When it comes to the reasons why people choose not to stop, Brake New Zealand director Caroline Perry says it can vary from drivers not paying attention to the road and missing the light altogether, to ignoring the rules because the driver doesn’t think they are at risk of anything going wrong.

From this data there were 59 deaths/serious injuries where running a red light was a significant contributor to the crash.

Data from NZTA showed that there were 49 crashes between the years of 2016 to 2021 in Christchurch city where ‘not stopping at a steady or flashing red light’ was a factor contributing to the crash*.

A Christchurch City Council spokesman reported by Stuff said two more red light cameras would be installed in the city this year: Stuff reported in April that red light cameras would be installed later this year and fines would one at the intersection of Manchester St, Pilgrim be issued by New Zealand Police for ignoring the Place and Moorhouse Ave, and the other at

• • • • • • •

Christchurch is the next city to take action as the number of red-light runners continues to rise.

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rules, after a survey of 15 city intersections over one 24-hour period in 2018 found red lights were ignored an average of 340 times every hour.

Currently, if a driver fails to stop at a red light, they can be issued with a $150 infringement notice by the police in New Zealand. Caroline says she believes the red-light cameras will have a positive effect on changing drivers’ behaviour. “The evidence is that they do act as a deterrent, even if it is a road that’s usually quiet, you never know what hazards are around the corner.” *There are provisos/caveats over the 2020/21 data.

Local Owner/Operator covering Queenstown and the Southern Lakes region.

Lifestyles | Items of Desire

Lifestyles By Claire Wright

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(Cellar Release)

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2. Thomas Sabo Gold Flower Ring Bring a piece of spring with you as the Southern Hemisphere heads into winter by wearing this subtle statement piece on your finger. From Thomas Sabo’s spring collection for the Northern Hemisphere, this gold-plated sterling silver ring will be sure to attract second glances.

RRP: $450 www.ballantynes.co.nz

3. Tresna Leather Sofa The new Tresna sofa by Satara brings you an elegantly understated design for any minimalist’s dreams. In this version, the tan leather is the cornerstone piece for any living space that will outlive any trend for years to come. RRP: $6,177 www.satara.com.au

4. Focal Celestee Headphones Launched in January 2021 by the French audio brand Focal, the Celestee headphones provide premium sound with a luxury look. Soft, navy blue leather houses memory foam, with an accent colour of soft copper. Soundproof comfort with sound to sink your teeth into.

RRP: $1,500 www.focal.com

5. Boxer Figurine Décor This handmade, ceramic figurine from Portugal is an artistic take on the beloved family pet. Dotted with depictions of Cupid, the Roman god of love, the boxer figurine is a funky and elegant way to spice up your home. RRP: $2,480 www.achcollection.com

DISCLAIMER: Please note prices listed here are recommended retail pricing. Prices are subject to change at the discretion of the seller. The information on this page is for information purposes only. AMark Publishing NZ Ltd assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 9

Management | Strategies

Let the question become the answer

How to use coaching to build accountability and drive performance I often talk about the importance of developing a culture of coaching within organisations.

4. Create space for celebration of achievements, especially when these are linked to key results. For instance, if you and your team have goals you are trying to reach, make sure that when you reach them, you celebrate in some way.

Use a model to help people take ownership and responsibility

I do so because when leaders take a more ‘coach-like’ approach, it results in individuals, teams and organisations that can become self-improving. By encouraging self-improvement across the board, they create a workplace that is not only fulfilling, challenging and more satisfying to be in but is also more likely to be a high performing environment. And who wouldn’t want that? In this article I want to focus on one of the most important aspects of the coach’s role, which is to develop accountability in individuals and teams throughout the organisation.

Recognising progress is a foundation to being accountable When people feel they are making progress and moving forward towards a goal, it is exciting and energising. As one of the foundations for a strong culture, forward momentum and recognising progress

There are many great models available that encourage individuals and teams to take responsibility for their work. One that I heard recently is OARBED, which stands for:

gives you, your managers or team leaders, specific issues or areas you can coach to support the development of an accountable team.

Try these strategies to create organisation-wide accountability: 1. Ensure that expected results are clear. This is a basic need for any employee: to know what is expected of them at work. A good way to check whether you have made this clear is to ask your team ‘what are the three to four most important responsibilities or tasks you are expected to do to achieve in your role?’

2. Create simple protocols or routines that reinforce moving forward. A good example of this is to always have actions on meeting minutes that include who is responsible for the action, and by when the action should be complete. 3. Make sure you and your leaders always follow through. This is really important If your team sees their leader as someone who follows through, they will be more likely to do the same. If you fail to do so, then your team is likely to follow your lead and also fail to follow through.

• Ownership • Accountability • Responsibility • Blame • Excuses • Denial. The first three are known as ‘above the line’ behaviours, whereas the bottom three are ‘below the line’. People who focus on above the line behaviours tend to move forward more confidently and take pride in achieving their goals, whereas those below the line will generally need more support to help them move forward. Using a framework such as this can help your team understand and moderate how they are

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Management | Strategies holding themselves accountable for their results, all the while making it easier for team members to ask themselves, or one another the question ‘are you above or below the line?’

Let the question become the answer Once the foundations are in place, it is time to find ways to nudge and support your team to achieve the results they need to meet both their individual and overall goals. This is where coaching skills really come into play. Generally, I would say the most important tool in a coach's arsenal is the quality of their question – in a way, ‘the question becomes the answer’. Being considered in how you use questions will drive people toward their own solutions, empower them to take action, and reinforce ownership.

Rob Clarke CEO of Learning Architects www.learningarchitects.com

quick connect to touch base, asking how people are will go a long way to knowing your people and showing them you care.

A slightly longer conversation to explore solutions to a current issue someone is facing helps identify development needs and solve immediate problems. Lastly, a longer more 1. Schedule regular meetings with team focussed conversation designed to dig deeper members and focus on what they are working on, the challenges they face, and how you might into an area of practice and support support them. This creates a kind of ‘cadence of personal growth. support’ so they know you will be inquiring into If you implement practices such as these, and their progress regularly. make sure that you and your team leaders 2. Inquire into the results from team members consistently follow through with them, you will see accountability improve. informally. Rather than asking ‘How are you Here are some tips for using questioning in different ways to help create accountability:

going with xyz?’, which tends to elicit answers like ‘good’ or ‘fine’, try using phrases such as ‘show me what you’re working on’ or ‘I’d love to see that’ and encourage sharing in a gentle, non-confrontational way. 3. Include different types of coaching conversations into your week. For example, a

It can be immediate, and sometimes it will take a little bit longer, but you will gain the advantage of forward momentum. So, looking at your current situation, what can you do to be more coach-like and stimulate personal responsibility and create a culture of accountability in your organisation? CT

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Cover Story | Sam Stubbs

Morality & money How ethical investing is making New Zealanders richer By Claire Wright

12 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Cover Story | Sam Stubbs

Investor-turnedentrepreneur Sam Stubbs, the managing director and co-founder of Simplicity KiwiSaver fund, is on a mission to give more agency to everyday New Zealanders. Born and raised in West Auckland, the son of two school teachers was bought up with a clear understanding of right and wrong. His working-class upbringing, combined with an insatiable desire to give back, has led him to grow one of New Zealand’s biggest and most proactive ethical KiwiSaver funds in the country. It’s working, with the Government recently making Simplicity a KiwiSaver default provider.. How do savings in our pockets translate to a more productive and ethical economy? Sam Stubbs looks towards New Zealand’s future as a more capital rich country. With the advent of KiwiSaver, New Zealanders are now saving more money than ever. KiwiSaver net assets are at an all-time high. At the moment, KiwiSaver’s pool of money is $82 billion, and it’s expected to be $200 billion by 2030. This is by far the widest-held voluntary savings pool in New Zealand. “New Zealanders have never had so much saved,” Simplicity managing director, Sam says. “It’s increasing at over two percent of GDP per annum.” Despite these gains in savings and to the economy, many people live paycheck to paycheck, trapped in a working poverty that can make it difficult to advance in life. According to Stats NZ, the average weekly income for New Zealanders (accounting for a full-time work week) in the March 2021 quarter is $1,328 – equating to $69,078 a year.

While this may seem like an improvement, housing and rent costs have soared. Median prices for residential property across New Zealand increased by 24.3 percent from $665,000 in March 2020 to $826,300 in March 2021, according to REINZ data – New Zealand rents saw the largest year-on-year increase in two and a half years in March, growing by six percent to $540 per week, according to the latest Trade Me Rental Price Index. That’s where Simplicity comes in. Sam describes Simplicity as a dignity company, working to give average New Zealanders dignity in retirement, and the dignity of home ownership. How does one do that? The answer is quite simple. “A dignified life is one with choices. If you can't choose where you live, what you eat, when and where you go on holiday, it’s hard to have a life with dignity,” Sam says. “So how do you get choices in life? It’s simple, by having more money. Money gives you choices, and choices give you dignity. “So the whole purpose of what we're doing is just to make ordinary New Zealanders more money, more choices and more dignity.”

Ethical investing – the breakdown Around five years ago, people started focusing on where their savings were invested. Much of this stemmed from the revelation that many KiwiSaver funds were invested in companies making nuclear weapons. For many New Zealanders, KiwiSaver was their start in ethical investing. But what is ethical investing? “It’s hard to describe,” Sam says, “because there are many different views of what is ethical. “For us, it starts with not investing in those industries where a majority of members would not want their money invested. So actually, you're not making the decisions, you're just listening to your members about what matters to them.

“

We've never saved enough money to actually build the - Simplicity KiwiSaver managing director, Sam Stubbs

It’s a complex issue with multiple facets. Sam uses the example that some people might not want to invest in fossil fuels, but excluding the plastic industry as a whole creates a whole realm of other problems.

”

government will handle the rest – a result of romanticisation of a bygone era, the 50s and 60s. It’s not the reality nowadays, though. “The modern reality of New Zealand now is that we save too much in housing, and ironically, it's built too many substandard houses. “We haven't saved enough in the productive economy, which means we don't have businesses big enough, employing enough people, and paying high salaries.”

“It’s easy to eliminate single use plastic bags, Places like Germany and Switzerland, or even but what about heart valves, cochlear ear England and the United States, are better off in implants or heart valves, all of which use plastic. terms of higher income and savings. It’s “When you talk about investing ethically, you why New Zealand experiences the ‘brain have to make tough decisions. It's not easy. drain’, or skilled workers looking for higher The ethics of one person are not the ethics of salaries overseas. the next.” Some 600,000 Kiwis live across the ditch in In the ethical investing industry, Sam says New Australia, where the average income is $1,711 Zealand is unquestionably a world leader. AUD a week, or approximately $1,836 NZD, “If you look at the percentage of our KiwiSaver according to the latest data from the Australian funds invested with some sort of ethical Bureau of Statistics. That’s $500 more a guidelines, it’s well over 70 percent. That is way week than the average weekly earnings in higher than any other developed nation, and a New Zealand. wonderful thing.” “But we're beginning to address it – as we save “New Zealanders have a very, very strong more money, the money will find its way into fairness gene that runs through their businesses, and they will employ more people. personal lives, and where they want their savings invested.”

This can be seen with New Zealand’s strong stance in the anti-nuclear movement, as well as being the first nation in the world that gave women the right to vote.

An economic renaissance

We've had a national savings crisis for over a century. New Zealand we might want to live in.

“So, for example, most New Zealanders, maybe all New Zealanders, would not want their money invested in nuclear weapons, or cluster munitions, or automatic rifles, and all those sorts of things. By listening to members, you get a sense of their ethics.”

New Zealanders are often praised for their ingenuity and resourcefulness, part of the ‘number 8 wire’ mentality, born from being accustomed to its status as a poor nation, with insufficient local savings. Examples of lack of money nationally include the poor-quality housing stock and the ageing infrastructure, like with Wellington’s sewers. “We've had a national savings crisis for over a century. We've never saved enough money to actually build the New Zealand we might want to live in,” Sam says. “A classic example is a lack of safe housing.” In this regard, Simplicity is putting its money where its mouth is. In March, it committed $20 million in social housing through the Community Finance scheme, which seeks to raise $100 million to build new affordable and social housing.

“I think we're about to enter an economic renaissance in New Zealand. We’re going to have some of the best decades we've had since the 1950s, and maybe even further back than that. “Why? Because we're about to become capital richer, and all with our own savings. KiwiSaver will be responsible for much of this, just as superannuation has been in Australia.” Ethical investing is not just a trend – it’s a movement that’s been compounding as we become more uncertain about the future of our planet and the effects of issues like climate change, unsafe housing and social unrest. “It’s no longer an on the margin, airy-fairy thing. It’s now central to how we think about consuming, investing and living. It will be a defining theme for the rest of our lives. “We should be constantly testing whether our members ethics line up with how we invest money. We will always be challenging accepted wisdom and mores.

“The finance industry plays an important role in the future of society, because where it invests, “The average New Zealander for the longest time many billions of dollars in the future will change has saved by buying a house and paying off the the way we live. It’s a debate that should never mortgage. The problem for the economy though go away. is that while the house is a wonderful place to live in, and gets high financial returns for the “But it’s a very bright future with much more owner, it doesn't add to the productivity of saved, much more invested in the productive the economy. economy, with more of an ethical lens. It’s the best way to give our children better lives, in a “And there’s been the view in New Zealand that if you buy a house and pay your taxes, the healthier planet.” CT www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 13

been seen

Images taken and supplied by Lynne Puddy-Greenwood If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Canterbury Today events editor on: sales@academygroup.co.nz

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

After the disappointment of the early cancellation in the year, large crowds turned out to get plenty of ideas and inspiration at the Christchurch Home Show at the Christchurch Arena. The thousands of visitors got to experience hundreds of quality brands and experts ready to help them plan their next home renovation or new home build. A large number of quality exhibitors displayed the latest products, services and trends in renovations, building, furnishing, home improvements and outdoor living, all under one roof!

1. Scott Marshall, Tony Sands

& Brent Wingham (DVS Ventilation) 2. Lindy Hayes-Thompson

& Tom Peters (Classic Builders) 3. Abby Bradley

& Matt Petheram (Readylawn CHCH) 4. Andrew Kitsow, Wayne Purvis & Nigel Waites (Solarcorp) 5. Bradley & Amanda Kiwa (NZ Tint) 6. Craig Thomas, Mila Adams

& Toni Lippert (Greenscapes)

7. Joseph Beuker & Sarah Young

(Hagley Windows & Doors)

8. Georgia, Scott Harris (My Build Sorted)

& Vincent Sanders.

The opening night to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Court Theatre’s founding saw a large crowd enjoy the New Zealand’s most commercially successful play ”Ladies Night“. The majority of theatre ticket purchases were women who enjoyed the entertaining play and enjoy a lovely supper and wine with the chance to meet the artists.

1. Giles Tanner (light designer)

& Sam Snedden (director)

2. Phoe Hurst & Steven Chudley 3. Roy (Actor), Eva, Isayah Snow

& Keetley Rate

4. Shadon Meredith, Nic Kyle, Kathleen

Burns & Hayden Tew (Ladies Night cast) 5. Lonetto Tate & Barbara Young 6. Shadon Meredith &

7. Clive Greenwood (Media Sales Group),

Hayden Tee (cast members Ladies Night)

Allanah James (Court Theatre) & Oksana Nykytenko

8. Alister Kelso & Barbara Allen.

1. Jo Clifford (CEO)

& Jim Davis (Regional Manager)

Canterbury top real-estate management and sales team, Harcouts Group got together for a night of glamour to celebrate the 2021 awards winners at the Wigram Air Force Museum.

2. Jan-Louise Chesmar

& Jill Allison (Harcourts Grenadier) 3. Nathan Gilbert & Steve Golding, 4. Mary Turnbull, Stephanie Perry

& Annabel Young,

5. Greg Roberts (Four Seasons)

& Tony Jenkins (Holmwood) 6. Paul Wright (Harcourts International)

& Steve Caradoc-Davies

7. Duncan McGregor

& Leanne Kiesanowski 8. Glenys French & Tony Edwards.

PLANNING AN EVENT? HOSTING SOMETHING SPECIAL? CELEBRATING A MILESTONE?

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

14 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Lynne Canterbury Today events editor on: sales@academygroup.co.nz

been seen

Eliza’s Manor - images /names taken and supplied by Chris Sharpe Photography If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Canterbury Today events editor on: sales@academygroup.co.nz

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

1. Mayor Lianne Daziel, Charlotte

Eliza’s Manor, celebrating its 160th year, was relaunched in style on the 16th April, following an extensive renovation of both the interior and exterior of the building. Located at 82 Bealey Avenue, esteemed guests, including Hon. Mayor Lianne Dalziel and local MPs, were treated to French styled canapes and champagne to toast this historic and iconic building brought back to life.

2. Aniko Chahine, Mayor Lianne

Guest speakers spoke of the Manor’s unique historical account and future aspirations while thanking the owners for bringing back such a beautiful and significant building to the city. Now open for functions, boutique weddings and conferences, high teas, luxury accommodation and exquisite meals, Eliza’s Manor is like always, like never before.

Hickling, Fred Rahme, Jack McLellan-Dowling & Sam Zhang

Daziel, Darel Hall & Sam Zhang

3. Sam Zhang (owner)

& Scott Taylor (Devcorp)

4. Fred Rahme, Mayor Lianne Daziel

& Jack McLellan-Dowling

5. Sonya Rowell, Aniko Chahine

& Sam Zhang

6. Tina Ban 7. Sonya Rowell, Mayor Lianne

Daziel & Kathryn

8. Bronwyn Sheehan & Kim Chan 9. Fred Rahme (left) 10. Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon

& Charlotte Hickling

11. Sonya Rowell, Dr Duncan Webb 12. Melissa Sinclair, Patsy

& Keith Wardell

13. Jamie Todd (CHCH NZ) 14. Scott Taylor, Leanne Newsome &

Brett Anderson (CHCH Casino)

15. Christopher Stent

& Aniko Chahine

16. Sam Zhang, & Aniko Chahine 17. Scott Taylor 18. Mayor Lianne Daziel 19. Dr Duncan Webb 20. Fred Rahme 21. Dr Duncan Webb 22. Shirley van Waveran,

Susan Franklin, Hannah Pearce & Holly Andrews.

Aniko Chahine General Manager/Director 82 Bealey Avenue, Christchurch 8013 Ph: 03 366 8584 info@elizas.co.nz www.elizas.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 15

Management | Online

Monetising Facebook groups Profiting from small businesses By Polly Nichols

The global financial crisis prodded many of us to consider other sources of income often referred to as ‘side hustles’. Since then, we’ve seen the ebb and flow of the gig economy and many hobbies turn into hustles and then small businesses. But what if your business is hustling the hustlers?

When creating any group, the group administrator can create a list of questions users must answer before being accepted into the group. Using the example of groups promoting small New Zealand businesses, the questionnaire can be used to sort the sellers from the customers. Dividing users into sellers and customers isn’t the problem because the intent of the group is shared before users even become group members.

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Yet what many Facebook users don’t realise is that these groups can be monetised, even after users join a group. According to Facebook’s Pages, Groups and Events Policies, groups can’t promote products,

The issue arises later, when groups grow to thousands of members. At the start of a group, sellers are often able to promote themselves and their goods for free. However, when groups reach a level of membership that group administrators deem profitable, the dynamics of the group change.

At the onset of the pandemic, many looked for ways to support local businesses and artisans. You could see this as different Facebook groups cropped up and gathered small, New Zealand owned and operated businesses selling New Zealand made goods – something any Kiwi can get behind.

Facebook group turned e-commerce website

services, schemes or offers using deceptive business practices – especially those meant to scam people out of money or personal information.

Previously, sellers might have been able to post freely but at the flick of a switch sellers can be required to pay for posting on the page, pay a commission for any sales resulting from promoting on the group page, or sign up and pay for a service outside Facebook like an e-commerce website.

Although not all monetised groups can be classified as schemes attempting to scam people out of money, some of their practices have been misleading.

Again, these actions don’t necessarily go against Facebook’s Pages, Groups and Events Policies, but these sort of changes in rules and dynamics can be off-putting to sellers and customers alike.

Still, not everyone abandons these groups. In CPA Australia’s most recent Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey it states that more small businesses have gone digital and integrated technology into their day-to-day operations as a result of the pandemic. Some monetised Facebook groups appeal to small businesses because they function as an intermediary between the business and customers. For some small businesses, keeping up an online presence is just something else to juggle. Depending on the direction a monetised group goes and the sort of e-commerce website it becomes, small businesses might welcome the change in group dynamics.

Many of us are familiar with the contests that take place which usually involves sharing promotional material on your own profile or friend’s profiles. But did you know that according to Facebook’s Pages, Groups and Events Policies, this is not permitted? Nevertheless, social media is the worldwide web’s wild, wild west. There are rules in place but it’s a whole other matter whether they are actually followed, enforced or understood. CT

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16 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Management | Travel & Tourism

ZOOM IN

Does Christchurch lose valuable tourism dollars with the Cook Islands travel bubble?

By Claire Wright

COVID-19 has dealt a blow to New Zealand’s tourism sector, there’s no doubt about that. Pre-Covid, tourism in New Zealand was a $114.8 million per day industry. But one of the silver linings around it has been the boom in domestic tourism, especially in regions that were accustomed to only serving international tourists.

total decrease of 10 percent in Q4 in 2020 for Christchurch visitor spending compared to Q4 in 2019, domestic visitor spending in Christchurch is up a whopping 26 percent. ChristchurchNZ states, “Indicators suggest that economic activity across the city and region is performing near pre-COVID-19 levels. Pent up demand, government support, a resilient domestic economy and a well performing domestic visitor market has underpinned this rebound in economic activity.

While there was a lot of excitement and build up around the Trans-Tasman bubble, tourism operators are worried money that could be spent here domestically could be lost on a Cook Islands holiday.

“The exceptional post lockdown surge in retail spending in both Q3 and Q4 [2020] provides evidence to this statement.

Canterbury, and Christchurch specifically, has been a winner in the domestic tourism sector.

doesn’t lose out due to those itching for better weather overseas. CT

“Nonetheless, this rebound in activity has been unevenly felt with industries more reliant on international visitors continuing to be the most According to data from the Cook Islands’ disrupted by COVID-19 restrictions despite Ministry of Finance and Economic Management, receiving some support for domestic visitation.” Kiwis made up 67 percent of visitor arrivals on With the cold winter months drawing ever average from 2016-2019*. Not only that, but closer, people will be looking towards balmier in 2020, the year of COVID-19, New Zealand weather to warm their tired bones. visitors to the Cook Islands took up 56 percent of visitor arrivals. Let’s hope our local Christchurch economy

Tourism Industry Aotearoa states, “The pandemic has changed where Kiwis visit, with a decline in travel to Auckland and more trips to Canterbury, Queenstown and Palmerston North/Manawatu.” This has been a big plus for Christchurch. Christchurch’s economy as a whole has been much more resilient than other local economies that are dependent on international tourists, such as Queenstown. According to data from ChristchurchNZ – the city’s sustainable economic development and city profile agency – while there’s been a

*This number is based on numbers in “Visitor Arrivals by Country of Usual Residence” by data released by Cook Islands’ Ministry of Finance and Economic Management. Read more at http://www.mfem.gov.ck/ images/documents/Statistics_Docs/4. Tourism/2021/Mig_Statistics_ Report_202104.pdf

This has been a big plus for Christchurch. Christchurch’s economy as a whole has been much more resilient than other local economies that are dependent on international tourists, such as Queenstown.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 17

Management | Health and Wellbeing

Diagnosing the DHB

The Government’s treatment plan for New Zealand healthcare By Polly Nichols

Limited access to specialist services, overstretched hospitals and staff, lack of resources – these symptoms and others have prompted the Government to propose major reforms to get New Zealand’s healthcare system back in shape.

To address this issue, the Government has included a new Maori ¯ Health Authority in the reform. The Maori ¯ Health Authority will have joint-decision making with ¯ are better Health New Zealand so Maori represented and cared for.

In the same factsheet it says that most people should expect to have the same relationship with their community health provider except that their provider will be “better supported to provide connected and integrated care”. Still, as for the CDHB specifically, there is little clarity to what the future holds. When asked about their opinions about the implementation of the new health system, some healthcare workers really don’t have much to say.

Still in the early stages, it’s hard to tell if the proposed reforms will have any real impact on healthcare outcomes. Pains and strains can be felt throughout New Zealand’s healthcare system and are evidenced in many ways such as stifling bureaucratic processes and unequal access to services. For example, in his speech from 24 March, Minister of Health Andrew Little stated people are twice as likely to die from potentially preventable conditions in some DHBs than in others, suggesting there’s a sort of “postcode lottery” for healthcare. Over the span of three years, the Government implemented and completed the Health and Disability System Review (HDSR).

Primary and community care services, such as aged care providers, will be reorganised to relieve pressure on hospitals and specialist services.

There are a few reasons for this. One of them being how the current CDHB is structured.

However, if the reforms are to take place, the DHBs that service plans and the commissioning of health services drives improvement.” will be consolidated into four regional divisions to create Health New Zealand. On 20 May, the Government revealed that $98.1 million was allocated for the establishment of the Health New Zealand will be in charge of ¯ Health Authority in Budget 2021 – one of the Maori transitioning the DHBs into their corresponding first steps in making the healthcare reform regional divisions, running hospitals, and a reality. organising ‘localities’ or primary and community services.

Still in the equation, the Ministry of Health will shift its focus to policy strategy and regulation. This The findings then framed the proposals for reform change in structure is often compared to Britain’s the Government would make to address equity and National Health Service because Health New Zealand will function as a single, national body. sustainability issues in the presen healthcare system. ¯ Alongside Health New Zealand, the new Maori Health Authority will further address equity in What will healthcare reform ¯ healthcare. Associate Health Minister (Maori look like? Results from the HDSR prompted the Government Health) Peeni Henare says, “We will legislate ¯ Health for a new independent voice – the Maori to address equity and sustainability in the ¯ Authority – to drive hauora Maori and lead the healthcare system. system to make real change. Currently there are 20 district health boards “It will have joint decision-making rights to agree throughout New Zealand. The disjointed nature of national strategies, policies and plans that affect the DHBs is a result of overlaps in some services Maori ¯ at all levels of the system and it will work and gaps in others, adding to the issue of the in partnership with Health New Zealand to ensure postcode lottery.

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What does reform mean for the CDHB?

In one of the factsheets released by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet covering the topic of primary and community care, it states, “Communities, alongside Iwi¯ Partnership Boards, will be involved in the Maori development of locality plans that set priorities for local health services.”

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On the outside looking in, your typical Canterburian utilising health services in the CDHB might assume that primary carers like GPs, nurses, aged care workers and the like are informed on what is yet to come. Nonetheless, primary care providers are at the bottom of the Canterbury organisational and system governance system with the Minister of Health on top and many others in between.

Directly beneath the minister are the DHB boards, The suggested changes are years in the making so including the CDHB. In between are committees, we shouldn’t expect to see the CDHB replaced with executives, advisors, general managers and a Health New Zealand regional division other groups. and localities. If healthcare workers were to be notified of It’s said that the focus of the new health anything – even something as large as a system will shift to prevention which includes health system overhaul – it’d be from public strengthening local health services to relieve announcements made straight from the top or stresses felt in hospital and specialist services. sifted through the bureaucratic filter.

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One of the main aims of the healthcare reform is to address equity in the healthcare system. As a result of the “postcode lottery” and other contributing factors, certain groups receive inadequate care such as Maori. ¯

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The other reason is that information provided by government organisations and officials is vague, using quantifiers like ‘more’ and phrases such as ‘quality care’ without giving hard numbers. It’s difficult to say whether it’s too early to put a number to anything or if the lack of clarity is indicative of a restructure instead of reform. CT

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News | Housing

Fixing housing by changing our perspective on how we live At its core, Aotearoa New Zealand’s housing crisis is not about houses, but about the way we think about wealth, community, ourselves and our neighbours, the economy, education system, and much more. The only solutions to this problem involve everyone. How We Live - Creating Housing That Puts People and the Planet First is a report led by the MOTIF Agency and commissioned by the PIF Foundation, representing a co-created response to concern for Aotearoa’s housing ecosystem after the Covid crisis. How We Live co-author, Ben Preston says, “This is a problem fraught with complexities and one that we’d have solved by now if existing approaches and understanding were sufficient. “Our report provides a starting point for accelerating the ‘Collective Housing’ sector in New Zealand and we want to create a platform for ongoing dialogue through our website www. howwelive.co.nz,” Ben says. Building on the Counterfutures 2020 issue on housing, How We Live researchers have adopted the term ‘Collective Housing’ to capture the overarching intent to move away from ‘built houses’, towards a holistic model that enables communities to actively participate in the cocreation of homes that regenerate their spirit and their environment. The vision of How We Live is that in 2030, all New Zealanders live in communities they feel connected to, in deep connection with the land and natural environment they are supported by.

takitahi, engari he toa takitini! ‘My strength is not that of a single warrior but that of many’. “While the influential leadership of our Prime Minister was key, it was the unified power of New Zealand’s ‘team of five million’ that defeated the pandemic. We did it then and we can do it again and defeat the curse of homelessness among our people. Kia kaha, kia maia, kia manawanui." The research paves the way for sustainable solutions that can be discovered and rediscovered as circumstances evolve over time. More so than that, How We Live aims to catalyse a cross-sectional approach to honestly identifying the complex, interconnected factors behind Aotearoa’s housing crisis, acknowledging these are linked to affordability issues, rapid population growth, legislative and regulatory challenges and damaging impacts on the environment. The How We Live report will be followed by a practical guide - the How We Live Workbook. The guide allows those who want to take a different path to share their journey and learn from those who are already on the pathway. Essentially, it is a blueprint for actualising a Collective Housing project, complemented by step-by-step guidance and a knowledgesharing library.

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The How We Live report is attracting intense interest from a wide range of stakeholders, including policy makers like the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), the Ministry for Housing ¯ and Urban Development and Kainga Ora. Grassroots organisations like The Housing Innovation Society, Community Housing Aotearoa, the Society for Cooperative Housing NZ, and Wellington City Mission have contributed and agree with the findings and conclusions. CT

Helmut Modlik, CEO of Ngati Toa, says “New Zealanders were reminded in 2020 of the truth of the Maori ¯ ¯ Ehara taku toa i te toa ¯ whakatauaki

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 19

Management | Money

Are Kiwi companies really ready By Georgina Oldfield

When the World Health Organisation recommended that people should use cashless transactions to reduce the risk of COVID transmission, many companies listened. But even before the pandemic, there was no question that cash was on the decline. The digital world we live in today has changed the way we function – almost everything is online and easily accessible. People expect a quick turnaround and more businesses are changing their model to suit the consumer. Auckland Ika Bowl managing director Ra Beazley is just one of many who made the move to go cashless after he could see that the majority of his customers were happier paying with their card. Offering fast, in and out service suited the company’s business model so it was an easy decision for him to go cash free.

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Management | Money

to g cashless? change they were looking at implementing in the near future, front of house manager Naomi Hugill says.

There was no point, we were getting like $10 sales of cash

“We want people in and out and that’s the same thing that they expect from us, they want something quick – in and out, no mucking around, a card is super easy for them so that’s what we did.”

“We have a lot of beautiful regulars throughout the week who do prefer using cash and we have such a variety at the moment in our café of all different ages and business people and all that kind of stuff that it just means that we want to cater to all those different people,” Naomi says.

morning and you have to make sure that you’re managing

While the company had a few people complain here and there when they first went cashless, Ra says they haven’t had any pushback since.

“If we became a bit more niche or it was a certain group of people that came in then we would tailor it to them.”

Their Auckland Fish Market location was the same – while they offered cash payments during COVID, it didn’t take long for Ra to realise it wasn’t worth it after only having a few cash sales.

Naomi says at a guess about 10-15 percent of customers would currently pay with cash.

“The difference between normal places and us is we predominantly serve a corporate clientele, so our whole trade was pretty much around them.

“There was no point, we were getting like $10 sales of cash a day or $20 sales and you have to pull that out every morning and you have to make sure that you’re managing it properly and you have to go to the bank, there’s a whole bunch of stresses with that so we got rid of it.

While they weren’t looking at going cashless anytime soon, it was something that was on their radar. “It’s a maybe but not a definite.” Something that Addington Coffee Co-op however has changed to make the service process easier for their customers is offering payWave.

“Especially because tourism wasn’t around then and tourists are predominantly the ones that spend with cash.”

The company originally didn’t have payWave before Covid because of the costs associated with it.

For Addington Coffee Co-op in Christchurch, due to their customer demographic it wasn’t a

Since Covid other businesses have stopped accepting cash including Otago University

a day or $20 sales and you have to pull that out every it properly and you have to go to the bank, there’s a whole bunch of stresses with that so we got rid of it.

where most of their outlets on campus are now cashless.

always been able to use my card on campus which is really practical for me.”

The Dunedin campus shops and cafes trialed going cashless in July 2020 post-lockdown to offer a more hygienic, efficient and faster service and reduce the risk of contamination associated with cash.

She believed a lot of the younger generation didn’t use cash as payment, as cash payments were not as common as they used to be. “Especially being able to use your card on your phone as well.” CT

The trial was so successful the university decided to keep it, with only a few of their outlets still offering card payments. Otago University student Arnie Johnson says it hadn’t really affected her because she always used her card to pay anyway. “I like things being cashless as I almost always pay for things using my card. I haven’t really noticed a shift as from my memory as I’ve

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Milestones | Coupland’s Bakeries

Coupland’s 50 years on How a Timaru pie shop became a Kiwi success story A Canterbury institution and a New Zealand staple, Coupland’s is the quintessential example of Kiwi perseverance and determination.

transporting us to a different time with family and friends. This is no exception for Coupland’s – the family-owned business uses quite a large number of recipes from Lance’s grandmother. “Our shortbread recipe, for instance, is an old favourite that’s been in the business for years. What makes that special is it actually has icing sugar in it instead of standard sugar, so it makes it a lot smoother to eat,” Lance says.

Back in 1971, founder Ray Coupland first started baking his world-class pies out the back of his dairy in Timaru, selling them over the counter to nearby businesses.

“The gingernut recipe we have is from my cousins down in Timaru. I was there duck shooting, and they had these gingernuts, and I thought, ‘These gingernuts are exceptional – I need the recipe.’

Since then, it has expanded to so much more – from baking fresh bread and delectable pies, to opening 25 stores and employing over 450 staff, it’s easy to see why Coupland’s is a household name.

“I extracted the recipe from my cousin. It’s been very successful for us. Our gingernuts are a different take on the standard gingernut. These ones are a lot richer and a lot tastier. They’re definitely a customer favourite.”

Canterbury Today chats with Coupland’s managing director, Lance Coupland, about the evolution of Coupland’s and what it means to be a family-owned business gone nationwide in New Zealand.

Since food is the family business, it was important for Lance to become fully entrenched in how it operated from the beginning if he wanted to take over one day.

As human beings, we have a unique emotional connection with food. Food makes us nostalgic,

From a young age, Lance was learning about the business from the bottom. Some of his first memories involve pushing a broom around the Grey Road shop – when he was 12 years old, he used to ride his bike every Saturday at 3 am to work in the bakery. He wanted a strong foundation to suit him before he went back to work at Coupland’s. He spent eight years outside of the business, working in the agriculture sector in New Zealand and at various bakeries around Australia. When he took over, one of his main goals was to ensure that Coupland’s has stayed relevant and will thrive in years to come. New product development has been key in this – for example, Coupland’s moved into plantbased products as well, and they’re seeing results. The award-winning vegan pie is a testament to this.

22 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

One of the main influences I've had from my father would be a strong emphasis on determination, and that's served me well in my role. We've certainly hit our ups and downs as a business, and I've experienced the downside. You’ve got to have resilience.

Milestones | Coupland’s Bakeries

Congratulations Coupland's Bakeries for an amazing 50 years. Here's to another 50. Lance and Ray Coupland at the grand opening of Coupland’s Rolleston store.

While plant-based products are a new and exciting evolution for the business, they’ve also expanded to what they’re widely-known for – good ol’ fashion pies with a modern twist. These include tantalising flavours such as the Chicken Thai Green Curry and the Peppered Steak & Jalapeno Cheese. They’re becoming fast customer favourites as well Initiatives such as these excite both new and existing customers. Lance says that the business needs to constantly evolve. “You’ve got to keep moving because it never stops. The world is shifting, and you’ve got to shift with it.”

crackers with packaging made from 100 percent recycled paper pulp. Where it can make those changes, sustainability and food safety are the number one priority, with ongoing changes still being made.

Grit and determination There are things that only become clear in hindsight, and the complicated realities of being a business owner didn’t crystalise until Lance became one. “One of the main influences I've had from my father would be a strong emphasis on determination, and that's served me well in my role. We've certainly hit our ups and downs as a business, and I've experienced the downside. You’ve got to have resilience,” Lance says.

Coupland’s Christmas Cake, which was developed in house, might even launch overseas soon. With online sales, it would be able to ship “In business, you need to have the resolve to see from right here in New Zealand. those phases through. That’s the biggest thing. Life is complicated, and it’s a lot more complicated In order to leave less of an eco-footprint, than when we started doing business in 1971. Coupland’s has also been investing and developing more sustainable packaging. This “You’ve got to be determined in what you do; year, the company launched a new range of otherwise, you’re never going to get there. There

Design Team congratulate Couplands and thank them for their support through the years.

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Building a strong relationship for future growth At BDO, the more we get to know our clients and their business the more passionate we get about them. BDO partner, David Ward, has been working with Coupland’s Bakeries by supporting the growth aspirations of the successful business it is today.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 23

Milestones | Coupland’s Bakeries

Everyone in Canterbury has a fond memory of Coupland’s at one time or another, whether it’s donuts for the annual family road trip or biting into fresh bread.

Frucor Suntory Congratulates Couplands on 50 years of Trading www.frucorsuntory.com

are lots of hurdles that keep popping up, and you just got to keep knocking them over.

through when they're building a business. It's tough in that respect.

donuts for the annual family road trip or biting into fresh bread.

“It was tough. I remember dad saying back in the day the hardest thing was actually getting enough capital together to start a business. He said banks were very reluctant to loan money back in those days. They were looking at 18 percent interest rates.

“With that experience, looking back I saw that determination was always in my father.”

This family-owned business that’s so beloved by locals was built on grit, determination and a desire to see things through. Cheers to 50 years, and cheers to 50 more. CT

“I remember we didn't get an easy ride with getting the business going. I can remember as a kid, we shifted house at this particular time in the business' evolution. The reason was because our business plan hadn't gone so well, and we lost the house. That's one of the challenges that people, and businesses, go

Despite those hardships, that determination was the catalyst for many more successes. Expanding to a purpose-built bakery in Timaru from the dairy; purchasing a hot bread shop in Christchurch in 1979, then purchasing Stevenson’s Pies in the 1981; and then, finally, building the main Hornby factory and headquarters in 1971, where Coupland’s is still based today. Everyone in Canterbury has a fond memory of Coupland’s at one time or another, whether it’s

Coupland’s Bakeries Cnr Carmen & Buchanans Rds Hornby Christchurch 0800 366 887 (03) 982 8526 www.couplands.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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Technology | Security

How to be cyber safe

different for each system. It will also make it easier to manage shared passwords such as your business’ social media accounts

Nadia Yousef Incident Response Manager at CERT NZ, the government agency which supports organisations and individuals affected by cyber security incidents, offers advice on how to be cyber safe.

• Back up business and customer data so if it’s lost or stolen you can recover it quickly. You can set up automatic backups. How often do you this depends on how important the data is and how regularly you receive it

Cyber security attacks are becoming more common and sophisticated as attackers look for new opportunities to steal from or disrupt businesses for their own financial gain. Attacks can have serious repercussions, including loss of revenue due to a business’ website being down, or the time and money it takes to recover from an incident. All of this can greatly impact customer trust. Regardless of the size of your business, it’s important you’re doing everything you can to keep it safe. Here’s some simple steps to get started:

• Regularly install updates on software and devices to prevent attackers from exploiting vulnerabilities which they could use to get into your organisation’s systems. You could opt to set up automatic updates • Implement two-factor authentication (2FA): this is usually a code that’s sent to your phone or an authentication app to verify your identity, in addition to using a password. It adds another layer of security to your logins. It can be used to protect both internal and customer-facing systems • Use a password manager to make it easy for your staff to create strong passwords that are

WE’RE HERE, BECAUSE THEY’RE OUT THERE.

Nadia Yousef

• Only collect data that you need and be clear about why you need it. Also, think about how you store that information and if it’s fit for purpose • Set up logs to record when particular actions are taken on your website and other systems, and who’s done them. You will then be notified if any unusual or unexpected activity occurs • Have an incident response plan No matter how well you prepare, things something go wrong. Having a step-by-step plan will help you take control of the situation if the worst were to happen and will help reduce the impact on your business.

Incident Response Manager at CERT NZ www.cert.govt.nz Your IT team or provider can help with most of this, leaving you to focus on running your business with the assurance that you have robust cyber defences in place. More advice is available on CERT NZ’s website: www.cert.govt.nz/ business, plus guidance on where to invest time and money in building your business’s cyber security: www.cert.govt.nz/it-specialists/ critical-controls/10-critical-controls. If your business experiences a cyber security issue, report it to CERT NZ at www.cert.govt.nz/report, or 0800 237869.

Hackers never sleep, and with two thirds of all employees working remotely, plus a third of all sensitive or proprietary data currently moving between cloud apps unprotected, cyber security is essential. Cyber Research have developed a range of innovative, best of breed solutions to help protect NZ businesses, allowing safe and simple access to apps and data anywhere, anytime, from any device. We assist with staff cybersecurity education, support business agility, eliminate complexity, dispel uncertainty, and most importantly reduce cyber risk.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 25

Technology | Your People Complete with features that cater to the needs of shift-based workforces, the new MYOB workforce management offering has been available in New Zealand from early April. Capabilities offered through the new solution will see businesses in industries like retail, hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing and construction, create and automate rosters based on employee skills, onboard new starters quickly and easily, streamline timesheet approvals, and seamlessly manage workforces across multiple locations.

Streamlining workforce management New cloud workforce management solution for shift-based businesses to launch in New Zealand Following on from last year’s announcement of its investment in workforce management (WFM) platform Roubler, MYOB has launched a new solution to market that will help simplify and streamline workforce management for shiftbased businesses.

As well as being available as an attachment to the new MYOB Advanced People, PayGlobal customers managing larger workforces will also be able to take advantage of the new workforce management solution which can be easily added to their existing software.

The upcoming release of the new workforce management attachment will mark a new milestone for MYOB’s Enterprise division, which will now provide mid-market businesses with the opportunity to combine their ERP, PS and WFM software under a single, seamless integrated cloud platform – MYOB Advanced.

MYOB is a leading provider of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP and Payroll Software (PS) in New Zealand and Australia. MYOB Enterprise head of product, Frank Feustel, explains that in order to fulfill their business’ growth potential and remain

Digital dilemmas How to tell it’s time to move your project management toolbox to the cloud Utilising the right technology and software to run a construction business is just as important to your success as having the right hardware tools to complete a job.

for construction enterprises can save you time and give you confidence by providing businesscritical information and flexibility to optimise performance and success.

Although continuing to use traditional systems and manual processes – like spreadsheets or paper-based timesheets – might seem easier and quicker because they’re familiar, as a business grows there often comes a point where the processes that once helped with business management, become too time-heavy.

So how do you know if it’s time for a change when it comes to the management tools you use for your business? Here are five signs that you should consider making the move to a cloud-based platform:

competitive, it’s more important than ever for employers to ensure they’re equipped with the right tools to successfully manage their everchanging workforces.

*MBIE National Survey of Employment Intentions, December 2020.

“We’ve seen from the results of MBIE’s National Survey of Employment Intentions that there is a clear drive amongst mid-market businesses to grow their employee numbers in 2021. “What’s more, 22 percent of businesses with 20+ employees are also expecting to increase the number of part-time staff*. “While it’s heartening to see such positivity around hiring ambitions, the benefits of bringing new talent into a business can only really be maximised when the whole process is managed well,” he says. “There’s a kaleidoscope of moving parts for businesses to manage when it comes to hiring, onboarding and paying new employees and our solutions have been designed with both business performance and local compliance requirements in mind.”

Frank Feustel MYOB Enterprise head of product www.myob.com

This can often result in extra expenses and operation and project management information delays that eat into both your project profitability which is regularly updated in one integrated and productivity. platform. With everyone on the same page, it When you have access to real-time job tracking will lead to a positive, functional workplace for all. through the cloud, you’ll have insight that sees you better prepared to forecast potential 4. More time is spent on paperwork obstacles, plan accordingly and ensure that your than productive tasks team has everything they need to finish the job Relying on spreadsheets or a range of individual, to schedule, without added pressure and cost. disconnected systems, often equates to wasting 2. Your project estimates tend to be valuable time on manual processes – putting inaccurate burdens on your team and limiting the time they Collating and analysing information from spend on productive tasks. multiple systems, is not just time consuming This can also mean that site managers need – it also leaves room for human error. to make trips to the office to catch up on If building costs are regularly exceeding paperwork, because they don’t have mobile or estimates, it’s likely that they’ve been based onsite access to office systems. on out-of-date or inaccurate reporting – a sure A cloud-based management platform for sign that you need to upgrade to an alternative construction projects doesn’t just eliminate business management solution. double data entry, it can also automate repetitive If your project data is stored in a cloud platform tasks while giving your staff oversight of key – like the MYOB Advanced Construction Edition project components from any device, anywhere – you can generate accurate and timely reports – increasing productivity and streamlining at the click of a button, making it simpler to everyday processes. provide correct quotes and better manage client expectations.

3. Your teams are working in silos If your teams are experiencing a divide between onsite and office workers, it’s almost always because they’re using different or disconnected systems.

This means they see information at different times and in different formats, and neither 1. You’re currently unable to predict group has a full understanding of how their Ultimately, this can lead to reduced productivity potential issues within your business work affects the other. Even in companies with and reduced capacity to scale. a strong team culture, the impracticalities of Project oversight is key to staying on time and disparate systems can hold you back. budget. Without real-time visibility, there is a As workflows increase and business operation requirements become more complex, switching risk of catching issues too late and struggling to A cloud platform for construction solves all to a cloud-based solution designed specifically give clients timely updates. these issues, with full visibility of business 26 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

5. You never get a complete, up-todate view of project details If you are always left guessing or relying on manually assembled reports that are generally out of date by the time you receive them, it’s time to integrate a cloud project management platform into your business.

A cloud platform creates a single source of truth – instantly accessible, all information flows into the same system so you can generate those up-to-date reports needed to guide internal discussions or influence project decisions, and have real-time visibility to update clients quickly and keep projects on track and on budget.

Simplifying HR: Today, many of the online services we use operate through the cloud. What was once a mysterious, abstract concept has slowly become part of our everyday lives. Netflix, Spotify, Microsoft 365, and Google Drive are just a few examples of popular cloud models that we as consumers use on a daily basis. Organisations, too, are increasingly shifting their operations to the cloud. The last few years have

seen modern businesses migrate to this model en masse to reinvent how they deliver their products and services and undertake business in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Cloud computing brings increased flexibility, functionality, and security – all without the high cost of hardware. COVID-19 reinforced the importance of the cloud as organisations quickly pivoted to remote set-ups and the ability to access data anywhere, anytime became critical to business survival. During the pandemic, ‘Zoom’ entered the daily lexicon of many workers across the globe, becoming a lifeline for distributed workforces. Not only are cloud services allowing us to work in more dynamic ways than ever before,

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The benefits of cloud-based technology

they are also changing business models and enabling smaller players to disrupt markets with greater ease than was previously possible. One area that greatly benefits from transitioning to the cloud is HR. The HR department deals with vast amounts of employee and financial data – all of which must be accurate, secure, and compliant. Just as organisations use data to be agile and thrive from a customer perspective, data can also be used to gain valuable people insights – to attract, recruit and develop talent – and to meet peoplerelated compliance obligations. HR’s workload is often laden with time consuming, manual, and documentheavy processes. The need to access data from anywhere, at any time, is crucial. HR’s handling of sensitive employee

records makes security in this department critical. As the pandemic demonstrated, future-proofing business operations is critical in a VUCA (volatile, unpredictable, complex, ambiguous) world. However, with all HR data stored and backed up in the cloud, the risk of failure and data loss due to a natural disaster, power failure or other crisis is mitigated, allowing organisations to conduct business as usual and minimise any downtime and loss of productivity. In this whitepaper, we outline the benefits of moving to the cloud – with a particular focus on cloud-based HR platforms, and how this can help streamline time consuming processes and enable HR to get back to what really matters: creating an unforgettable employee experience.

Simplifying HR:

The benefits of cloud-based technology The whitepaper will look at: 3 The rise of cloud computing 3 The benefits of cloud-based HR 3 Cloud versus on-premise HR 3 Key questions leaders should ask about cloud-based HR

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elmosoftware.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 27

Business Development | Danny de Hek

Building your personal brand How serial entrepreneur Danny de Hek reinvents himself time and time again No matter what industry you’re in, there’s nothing more powerful than your personal brand. For Danny de Hek, this has been the key to his success no matter what new venture the entrepreneur wanted to delve into next. From website development during the dot com boom to starting his own podcast, Danny de Hek is always on the lookout for a fresh take on how to do business in an ever-evolving digital world. He was responsible for the first internet café in Christchurch – The Email Centre – in 1995; before Google, Danny travelled New Zealand as the country’s leading internet consultant.

“I want them to embrace technology, and I want them to use the world where it's going. At the moment there's a lot of resistance, which is really unusual.” That’s why Danny started introducing courses for people to take website development for their business into their own hands.

“A typical course may be as simple as trying to find a good domain name for your business. This includes how to register it, where to These days, he runs ELITE : SIX business register it and what not to do. Like some people networking, as well as looking after a few loyal might go to GoDaddy, go through the whole website clients. process and then they've got a bill for He also runs a few drop shipping websites. If it’s $200 here. anything internet and technology related, Danny “They don't even know what they're paying for is sure to be one of the first people to know it. They've got web hosting that they don't need about it in New Zealand. or isn't going to suit their needs. Danny says the future of communication “People need to be cautious of big SEO and business is online, and Covid has only companies. A lot of them will just take a whole accelerated this trend. pile of money from you. “I used to have [business networking groups] all “Then, people will be bitterly disappointed. A lot around Christchurch. When Covid happened, I of people hate the SEO industry. My workshops had to move everyone onto Zoom. are really focused on teaching people to get their “Most people just started to go glary eyed and head around it and do it themselves.” didn't like it, so I lost about half my members at that time. Over the last six months, I've been trying Honesty and relatability to get it back – I don't want to go back to how it was. One of the qualities that draws people to Danny

the most is how sincere and open he is about his past struggles. Although Danny has a gift with words, he has lived with dyslexia all of his life. Through voice recognition technology, Danny was even able to write his own eBook. Although he’s had to jump over additional hurdles because of it, dyslexia contributed to Danny’s empathetic nature that makes him extremely relatable.

While it is an aspect of his personality, he has been able to wield his relatability as part of his brand. Since he is so open about himself and his past struggles – like the fact that he dropped out of school at 14 and yet has been a successful businessman – he’s been able to network with people all around the world. “I’m focused on building personal relationships,” Danny says.

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Business Development | Danny de Hek

Part and parcel to Danny’s success as a serial entrepreneur has been his authenticity and the constant need to reinvent the wheel – to outpace his previous successes, so he can create something newer, bigger, better.

Lately, he’s been spending time on Clubhouse, the exclusive social networking app used by high profile figures such as Elon Musk. It’s an audio chat-based social networking app that thrives on authenticity, where users can talk about topics that interest them such as business, books and tech. “I live on that [Clubhouse], and we hang out in the podcasting communities. Everyone is on that is really great. It's about your profile image and about how you portray yourself when you speak.”

“What defines me, what drives me, is being a successful businessman that people would come to and ask for advice. I'd like to share my experience, knowledge and skills. I use that line all the time, but I really mean it,” Danny says.

Danny, who is constantly looking to reinvent himself, is part of a public speaking group that he participates in with his partner Helen. Beyond “I think a lot of people don't realise what they can do. They're more focused on what they his natural talent at words, this group has really cannot do. I really like to drive into people that solidified his public speaking persona. say, ‘Oh, I could never do that.’ And I go, ‘why?’ “People have gotten deep down and personal. “Whatever is holding you back, it doesn’t It's a real privilege to be part of a group like that, matter – let's get started. Let's do something but it's taken probably three or four months about it.” CT to build that up. It's a new way of networking, which people are missing out on over.” Before, the Clubhouse app was available just on iPhone. It was recently released for Android as well. Part and parcel to Danny’s success as a serial entrepreneur has been his authenticity and the constant need to reinvent the wheel – to outpace his previous successes, so he can create something newer, bigger, better.

Danny de Hek (021) 961 652 danny@dehek.com www.dehek.com

Stephen Fitzgerald

Danny de Hek’s personal branding courses Some of the courses available right now include: • Personal Branding 101+ • WordPress 101+ • Domain Names 101+ • Google 101+. Another course coming up soon called SEO 101+ covers the fundamentals of optimising content to be found in search engines.

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PB Employment Law PB Employment Law is known for giving employers ‘peace of mind’ by resolving their employment law problems, quickly, efficiently and cost effectively.

“I like getting to know my clients and building longterm relationships. Experience has taught me the only way to gain trust is to earn trust.”

knowledge or experience. The great thing about our society is no one has to be an expert in everything – if you have your own business, then you have your own passion and strengths that suit you.

Paul Brown | PB Employment Law

When most people think of employment law, they often think about unfair dismissals and personal grievances. PB Employment Law does a lot of work in this area, but they also work in the following areas:

Legal advice for employers is so important for a number of reasons, one of the main factors being most business owners don’t have a huge base of legal

In order to make sure you’re operating in a fair and legal manner, it’s essential to understand how employment law might impact hiring, termination, or human resources decisions.

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• Redundancies and restructuring • Employee entitlements • Poor work performances • Health and safety advice • Employment agreements • Drug testing Business advice

1. A free initial call. At the early stages it is always best to get some advice before making any decisions, and PB Employment Law welcome calls from any business owner looking for some guidance and direction. You will be speaking directly to Paul who will do what he can to help you. There is no charge for these calls, and it is only once you agree to become a client that you will be charged for advice and representation.

PB Employment Law offers advice on management issues, strategic direction, future planning – these are all common issues for SMEs. As a fellow small business, PB Employment Law thrives on helping small 2. Fair rates. Too many employers have got business make sound legal themselves into trouble in decisions. Clients can pick the belief that it will cost up the phone and give PB too much to get good Employment Law a call when advice. But prevention they need to – Paul prefers is far cheaper than giving the personal touch, cure when it comes to encouraging clients to call or employment law, so good email him directly. sensible employment law advice at a fair rate can save you a lot of money.

“A common issue for small employers is not having someone to talk to as a business mentor or advisor – I’m increasingly called upon to offer an opinion on a wide variety of ideas,” Paul Brown | PB Employment Law

Paul, having a blue-collar background himself, understands industries such as farming, forestry, construction and factory work. With this insight, he is able to see both the employee and employer perspective; this enables him to give clients sensible and pragmatic advice. Here’s what you can expect from PB Employment Law:

3. A friendly, down-toearth approach. Most people find lawyers a bit intimidating, impacting the working relationship and the eventual outcome. With PB Employment Law, you will work directly with its owner—Paul Brown, an employment advocate with a reputation for his friendly, downto-earth approach to learning about clients and offering advice. One area of employment law that employers often struggle with are the more serious disciplinary meetings where termination of employment has been considered. Some of the reasons for this is a lack of knowledge and a fear of saying the wrong thing, which may end up in a personal grievance, and that may end up costing thousands to resolve. Another reason is simply a lack of confidence – the employer will generally have a personal relationship with the employee, and sometimes it can be hard to

“

I have used Paul for the last 5 years or so; easy to deal with; very reasonable costs, and great to have him on call, as and when needed. Gives me peace of mind to leave employment law to Paul Alex Cowdell Canterbury Bulk Freight owner

terminate the employment of someone you have known well. These are all good reasons to get an independent expert to come in and represent the company. It can save stress, time, and money. Paul graduated with a law degree in 1999, from the University of Canterbury. After briefly working as a commercial solicitor, he began specialising in employment law for both employers and employees. From 2005 to 2011 Paul worked as a referee for the Disputes Tribunal, which was a part-time position for the Ministry of Justice. Paul’s no-nonsense approach and particularly concise written decisions meant that the losing party knew exactly why their arguments were not accepted – which is the essence of good justice.

with regular appearances in the Employment Relations Authority, and The Employment Court. He has even taken a case to the Court of Appeal about the 90-day trial period. Employment law is everchanging, so it’s important to always receive up to date legal advice. New laws are passed all the time, with different challenges and obligations changing the workplace as we know it. The biggest example of our lifetime would be COVID-19, which brought in a raft of new changes – from the impending increase of mandatory sick leave to how to legally claim a wage subsidy if your business was hit by Covid lockdowns.

In these uncertain times, it is important to receive legal advice backed by people who know what they’re talking about. PB Paul has 20 years’ experience Employment Law has been helping employers with their advocates for employers for two decades, helping them employment law problems. This includes hundreds upon negotiate the ever-changing business landscape. hundreds of mediations, www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 31

Health & Nutrition | Organics

The all-natural way The process of becoming certified organic in New Zealand Besides having peace of mind knowing you’re not ingesting harmful pesticides or hormones, organic farming and products have huge environmental benefits.

New Zealand-made products. This also applies to overseas companies importing organic products into the country, too.

Organic farming is an agricultural system that works in harmony with nature – by carefully using water resources and crop rotation, these more sustainable practices make sure the soil is fertile for years to come.

What are farmers’ obligations around being organic?

The MPI stresses that it’s important to note that organic certification standards are not food safety standards. Organic products must meet the same food safety standards that apply to all food for sale in New Zealand – if you see organically produced products, that means the retailer, handlers and processors followed voluntary standards to produce the products organically.

The biggest thing to understand is the MPI currently doesn’t administer any organic standards for products sold in New Zealand. Instead, the agency ensures companies are following New Zealand laws, including:

Originally, ‘organic’ meant all things living that are carbon based. The meaning of ‘organic’ has shifted to a catch all for products produced • Animal Products Act 1999 naturally – this could mean excluding the use of synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, as well • Wine Act 2003 as antibiotics and growth promotants. • Food Act 2014 Consider that organic dairy and animal farming • Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary also treats their animals more ethically. For Medicines Act 1997. example, studies invited by the Animal Board in the United States found that chickens grown Essentially, if your product is organic, you via organic farming methods tend to be can say this on the label. You can’t use it as a less stressed. clever marketing ploy, though. Here in New Zealand, selling something organic is not so simple as slapping a sticker on it and calling it a day. The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) has requirements for all companies producing, selling and exporting

Using the term ‘organic’ on food labels is actually controlled through the Fair Trading Act 1986, which isn’t even governed by MPI. It’s overseen by the Commerce Commission. There’s currently no law that centres around

32 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

organics specifically, although that may change soon. At the moment, the MPI states: • representations about food must be truthful and accurate, and they must not mislead a consumer • you must be able to demonstrate that products labelled as 'organic' are produced organically • if you claim that your products are 'certified organic', you must be able to back this claim up with a certificate. While the MPI regulates the organic industry in some capacity, it doesn’t have a certification process in house. Instead, it promotes third party agencies, also known as recognised agencies (RAs) that function as organic certification parties. Currently, there are only two recognised agencies that provide verification services under Organic Export Requirements: Recognised Agencies and Persons (OER: RAP): AsureQuality and BioGro New Zealand. From there, they have recognised persons that businesses can become certified from. There are other agencies that offer certification, but AsureQuality and BioGro are the only ones endorsed by the MPI. These organisations have various responsibilities, but they mainly verify that organic products exported under the — Continued on Page #34

Canterbury Today Magazine – Organics giveaway! Can’t wait to get your hands on some of New Zealand’s best organic products? Head to our Facebook page for a chance to win one of two sets of prizes! To gear up for the winter months, we’re partnering with Little Bird Organics and Antipodes to give away these prizes, for the best treats for your body, inside and out. Our contest will be held on our Facebook page from June 15th to June 29th, each lasting one week. Head on over to our Facebook page on www.facebook.com/ CanterburyTodayNZ/. Winners will be contacted over Facebook and sent from our offices.

FULL GIVEAWAY INFORMATION PAGE #34

Willowmere Organic Farms Mention the word organic and each of us has a different view point. But what does organic mean? How do we know that the food that we eat is truly organic? What standards qualify foods as organic and what are the organic logos? Organic is more than just a way of farming. It’s a way of life, an alternative eating style. Organic farming and food production avoids the use of synthetic pest control and soluble fertilisers. As well as being spray and residue free, the farming approach is to take care of the soil and its fertility, as well as the environment. Crop rotation forms the basis of organic farming. It takes skill, attention to detail and a huge commitment to farm this way. New Zealand is an unregulated organic market meaning there is no legislation to protect the word organic. Anyone can say they grow organically. The only way of knowing that you are buying truly organic anything is by looking at the packaging and looking for a certification logo such as BioGro or Asure Quality. With this mark the product is fully certified organic. Having this certification protects the consumer and assists them in being able to identify genuine organic products.

Willowmere Organic Farms is a fully certified operational organic farm situated at Hororata in Canterbury, near Mount Hutt. It is owned and operated by Kelvin Hicks. The Hicks Family have always had an interest and passion for organic farming. In the early 1970-80s they were in Australia farming an organic goat dairy herd. A move back to Canterbury saw them looking for suitable land to continue farming. A search that took nearly a year. Eventually they settled on a property in Hororata that was originally a 150 Ha sheep farm.

and onions. Arable crops also form part of the Willowmere’s farming enterprise. Wheat, Oats, and Ryecorn are grains grown with the end user being flour millers. While technically not a grain, buckwheat is also grown and on sold to various flour millers. The green leaf barley is harvested as the name suggests when it is green leaf and eventually forms part of the green leaf barley powder used in various health powders and smoothie mixes.

safe to eat and of an acceptable quality and produced in a sustainable manner. Having this certification allows us to have our products sold in supermarkets and gives the consumer confidence in what they are buying.

Livestock also graze the property and form a useful component in the organic system.

To be a market leader in organic production.

Whilst essentially still a family farm, Willowmere has been quick to employ new technology in order to maintain quality and efficiency in growing and harvesting. Irrigation now allows the fability bonus by ensuring crops can grow nearly all year round.

To give the consumer ready access to organic produce all year round and to have that produce marketed, displayed and sold at a realistic price.

As well as being Biogro Certified, Willowmere Organic Farms is also NZ GAP accredited. This stands for Good Agricultural Practice. We have to demonstrate that our products are

Willowmere’s vision for the future is To remain totally committed to organics and the health of the environment by using regenerative farming practices and by being environmentally sustainable.

Look for Willowmere’s own branding in various New Zealand wide Supermarkets and our loose product in some specialty outlets such as Liberty Market in Christchurch. A healthy soil produces healthy plants and animals and healthy people.

By 1995 the farm was fully certified organic under BioGro New Zealand with a vision to provide natural healthy produce to consumers, while maintaining environmentally sustainable farming practices The early focus was on carrots and potatoes, however demand for good quality, naturally grown produce resulted in rapid expansion to other vegetable types. Production now includes beetroot

A fully Biogro certified farm in Hororata, Canterbury, New Zealand. We grow carrots, potatoes, beetroot, grains and Green Leaf Wheat and Green Leaf Barley Willowmere Organic Farms Ltd ( Certified Bio-Gro since 1995 - GAP Credited). Willowmere Organic Farms Ltd is committed to the growing of quality organic produce. This will be achieved by: • Continual monitoring of products from planting to harvest. • The assurance that our suppliers provide products and services conforming to our requirements. • Understanding the markets needs. • A commitment to and the understanding of organic processes by management and staff.

Phone. 027 228 9680 Email. willowmereorganics@xtra.co.nz 18 Duncans Rd Hororata, New Zealand 7544 www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 33

Health & Nutrition | Organics

Official Organic Assurance Programme (OOAP) are produced and processed to certain requirements.

Antipodes

Little Bird Organics giveaway

This is a very thorough and stringent process, which includes ensuring organic operators are complying with relevant OOAP requirements. The RAs’ main goal is to verify and evaluate whether organic operators are corresponding to these rules. This all may change in 2021 – currently, the Organic Products Bill is going through Parliament. If accepted, it will help with developing new standards for organic products. It would officially set requirements for most, if not all, businesses involved, from production to sale. CT

If passed, the Organic Products Bill will serve a threefold purpose:

Little Bird

Enter for a chance to win a selection of their favourite products, including: • 2 x grawnolas (macadamia and berries, cacao and superfoods)

Antipodes

• 2 x good macaroons (passionfruit and macadamia, cacao and raspberry) • 3 x good cookies (double chocolate, hazelnut chocolate and apple cinnamon hemp breakfast cookie)

1. increase consumer confidence in buying organic. 2. increase certainty for businesses who grow organic. 3. facilitate international trade of New Zealand organic products.

We’re teaming up with Little Bird Organics to give a lucky winner a chance to win $100 gift box of raw organic goodies!

Little Bird

Information sourced from the Ministry of Primary Industries. Find out more at: www.mpi.govt.nz.

• 3 x good nuts (cheesey chipotle cashews, banana bread walnuts, salty seaweed almonds) • 1 x almond sea salt & crackers. This selection of activated and sprouted, plant based, organic, wholefoods treats are refined cane sugar free and wheat free.

Antipodes skincare giveaway To kick off winter, we’re collaborating with Antipodes, the scientific green beauty company that brings you cult beauty products made right here in New Zealand! Enter for a chance to win products from Antipodes’ bestsellers range, including: • Grace Gentle Cream Cleanser & Makeup Remover • Ananda Antioxidant-Rich Gentle Toner • Hosanna H20 Intensive Skin-Plumping Serum • Divine Face Oil Rosehip & Avocado Oil • Rejoice Light Facial Day Cream. All of these products are certified organic and vegan, giving you the best of its award-winning skincare products.

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The next intake of the Certificate in Organic Primary Production starts on the 26th July at the Biological Husbandry Unit (BHU), Lincoln University. The 17-week full time programme covers a range of sustainable principles and practices with a focus on the skills required for students to go on to run their own small-scale business. The BHU Organics Trust, established in 2001, brought together likeminded specialists from Lincoln University and the NZ Organic Movement. BHU manager Bill Martin says people are taking an active interest in the food supply chain and as a result there is increased interest in smaller scale organic production to supply farmers’ markets, home delivery, cafes and restaurants. This will be the thirteenth year of hands-on training in organics at the BHU. Graduates go on to embed their knowledge in a range of occupations, everything from growing produce to education and hospitality. “There are also numerous social enterprises popping up across the country that 34 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

are involved in food production, particularly involving urban food production” says Martin. Graduates also have the option of going on to the BHU Stepping Stone programme, where they can lease BHU land and facilities to grow and sell their own certified produce under the mentorship of BHU staff. The zero fees programme is eligible for student loans and allowances. BHU students tend to be a bit older, so classes are condensed into three day per week (Mon-Wed) to work in with their other commitments.

The BHU is located on campus at Lincoln University, it includes a 10ha farm which has been certified organic since 1976, making one of the oldest organic farms in Australasia.

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Destinations | Hidden Gems of New Zealand

Tauranga treasures Canterburians often feel the need to get away from the winter chill that’s characteristic to the region this time of year. It’s nice to be able to escape even for a little while without having to reach for your passport. As you migrate north for the winter, be sure to check out Tauranga and Mount Maunganui.

Mount Hot Pools takes pride in its reputation as the only hot ocean hot water complex in the world.

Counterintuitive for many South Islanders, you’ll see more people out and about during winter in Tauranga.

“Drift Trikes were also invented here. They are three-wheeled trikes powered by an electric front wheel with custom-built drifting rear wheels.

The balmy winter days are warm enough for outdoors enthusiasts but crisp enough to indulge in the cosy joys of winter.

“They are a fun alternative to go-karts that have universal appeal as they provide more control and a smooth ride.”

Bay Venues Ltd marketing manager Samantha Wilkie says, “We also have some unique attractions. The Mount Hot Pools are the only hot ocean water pools in the world and at BayStation you’ll find two quite unique activities; Drift Trikes and Blokarts.

As the saying goes: when in Rome, do as the Romans do. When visiting Tauranga and Mount Maunganui, you’ll find there’s a lot of crossover between local and tourist activities.

“Blokarts are a Tauranga-made invention that combine the very best of go karts and sail boats to give you the ultimate land-sailing experience.

Samantha says that locals and tourists alike consider walking up and around Mount Maunganui a must-do. Along with relaxing at the Mount Hot Pools, many can’t resist grabbing a coffee at Sidetrack

café or a Copenhagen Cone – but why resist? Winter is all about giving into simple pleasures.

atmosphere and as a place to gather friends close.

“We are a friendly bunch here, so I’d recommend asking a local for their favourite place to visit when you get here.

Speaking of good food, if you need another reason to visit Tauranga, Samantha suggests coming up for the Seriously Good Food Show taking place on the 26 and 27 June at Trustpower Baypark Arena. As you might expect, the Seriously Good Food Show will exhibit a wide range of foods and wines which visitors can sample and enjoy. CT

“That’s how you’ll stumble across hidden gems like Hide and local institutions like The General,” says Samantha. The General is a popular café which bases its menu on seasonal and locally sourced foods – a great way to start your day. To bookend your day with good food and drinks, mosey on over to Hide, New Zealand’s first Moa bar. In addition to its curated wine list, locals often appreciate the bar for its distinctive

For more information on upcoming events this winter and beyond, check out www.bayofplentynz.com.

Unwind at the only hot ocean water pool in the world Nestled under the majesty of Mauao (Mount Maunganui) is the Mount Hot Pools – one of the few hot ocean water pools in the world

s e i t i v i t c a 4 n o i t a c o L 1

81 Truman Lane, Mount Maunganui 07 577 8599 | www.baystation.co.nz 36 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

The heated salt water is known as the perfect anecdote to a busy day of sightseeing around Mount Maunganui. The natural salts are packed full of potassium, sodium, and magnesium to replenish the skin, support immunity, and relieve stress. With pools ranging from 32 to 40 degrees, no matter the weather outside, you can bask in the warmth of the hot ocean water. In this iconic oasis you’ll find two large outdoor pools, a dedicated children’s pool with slide and two adult-only spas. There are also private pools and massage therapy onsite that can be booked in advanced via the website. The Mount Hot Pools are steeped in history, connected to the four sacred

springs of Mauao which were used in ancient times for their healing properties. However, the facility was only established in the 1960s following a local water diviner’s re-discovery of the thermal spring. After years of continual enhancements, the Mount Hot Pools is now a must-do activity for travelers and locals alike. The Mount Hot Pools recently underwent a rejuvenation project that includes improved flooring, new outdoor furniture, and a revitalization of the external façade; aligning the external appearance of this iconic facility with its reputation as a top Mount Maunganui destination. The Mount Hot Pools was inducted into the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame in 2019 following seven years of excellence. Again in 2020 the facility was recognised for its exceptional service and quality by TripAdvisor who ranked them in the top 10 percent of attractions worldwide. Make sure you include a stop at this one of a kind hot pools in your itinerary. Keep an eye on the website, www.mounthotpools. co.nz, for entry deals (including gold card discount) and upcoming events.

EVERY DAY IS A PIE DAY! Our pies are unique to Halswell Bakery, hand crafted by us, for you. We’re proud to be one of a handful of bakeries in Christchurch who make our own pies. From the soft flaky pastry, to the tender pieces of slow cooked beef, the creamy chicken, or the roast vege & feta, you just can’t beat a pie that’s been made a few meters away from the counter it’s being sold from. With over 13 varieties there is something for every pie lover, and they’re available to purchase hot from the pie warmer, or cold to take home and heat later. While you’re instore check out our range of bread, filled rolls, sandwiches, donuts, and other sweet treats, all lovingly made on site. We also offer catering for events, and custom-made cakes for any occasion. Catering can be ordered on our website, or you can email or call the shop to discuss your requirements with one of the team.

HALSWELL BAKERY & CAFÉ - Open 7 days 346 Halswell Rd • P: 322-4600 • E: shop@halswellbakery.co.nz • www.halswellbakery.co.nz

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WWW.SCAR-LTD.COM www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 37

Destinations | The Winterless North

Turn up the heat With a ‘winterless north’ experience! Julia Crane is the manager of Visitor Information Services for the Far North District Council. You’ll find her at the Bay of Islands i-SITE in Paihia most days, where she’s singing the praises of the Far North with her ‘top hits’ of what to see and do.

Friendly motel accommodation in Paihia Quality self-contained, air conditioned accommodation nestled between Paihia & Waitangi on lovely Te Tii Bay. Communal BBQ deck, free WIFI, on site parking & secure mountain bike storage. Walking distance to Waitangi Treaty Grounds & central Paihia. Short drive to Waitangi Golf Course, Waitangi Mountain Bike Park, Bayly’s Farm Wedding Venue & all the adventures the Bay of Islands has to offer. BOOK DIRECT & SAVE

You’ll be staying in a prime position to take advantage of everything Paihia has to offer. With rooms to suit single travellers right through to larger families, your hosts — Phil and Maureen — can help you find the most economical accommodation to suit you.

P. 0800 724 444 E. info@swisschalet.co.nz www.swisschalet.co.nz 38 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

09 402 8660 | 2 Puketona Road, Paihia | www.gatewaymotel.co.nz

Destinations | The Winterless North

But it’s Julia’s local tips, collected over 20 years, that could give your Northland adventure that extra authentic edge. If you travel to the ‘Winterless North’ between June and September, you’ll be rewarded with all sorts of off-season perks. The temperature’s an obvious one. It can still reach 17 degrees here in winter months. Off-peak peacefulness is another – not just on the beaches, but in shorter queues for the kind of action-packed activities that get your own temperature rising. Which leads to the best bonus of all, more time and space to explore those secret travel gems that can get overlooked in the summer rush. Tapping into this insider knowledge is what our i-SITEs do best. For example: Which cultural experience will deliver your best bang for buck? Will the revamped thermal pool open in time for your visit? And where exactly does that guy anchor up to sell fish hooked fresh out of the harbour? It’s straight-up local advice a Google search just can’t compete with. So here, I’m giving you the best of both worlds. Top hits to tick off those famous attractions, and local down-to-earth gems to keep it real.

You can pick and choose to create a Winterless North experience that warms your heart for many winters to come. So, throw off your Canterbury woolies and let’s go.

The Bay of Islands and Eastern Bays Paihia and action!

Kerikeri Basin

Wonderful waterfalls

A number of must-see attractions sit within a stone’s throw of the Kerikeri River Basin.

There are five waterfalls in Kerikeri. As well as Wharepuke Falls and Rainbow Falls, you can hunt out Te Wairere Waterfall, the Secret Waterfall, and Charlie’s Rock. Haruru Falls near Paihia is also definitely worth a stop. There are walking tracks to all, and some you can drive up to.

New Zealand’s oldest stone building (The Stone Store) and oldest wooden building (Mission House) sit near a river walk to Wharepuke Falls and Rainbow Falls, and the newly opened Te Ahurea cultural centre. Or if you just want to chill out, nearby watering holes offer locally sourced wine, beer and refreshments.

Cruises, sailing, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, fishing (snapper and kingfish), parasailing, tandem skydiving, horse trekking, golf tours and scenic flights can all be booked from operators around Paihia wharf or our i-SITE.

Visit: www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/ places-to-go/norhtland/places/kerikeriarea/?tab-id=50578.

Tours can take you up close to Cape Brett cliffs, hopping around 144 islands or to our famous Hole in the Rock.

Beaches and small towns

Visit: www.fndc.govt.nz/Visiting-the-FarNorth/Visitor-Information-Centres/Bay-ofIslands-i-SITE-Visitor-Information-Centre.

Waitangi The award-winning Te Kongahu Museum of Waitangi includes immersive audiovisual experiences that bring to life stories surrounding the Treaty. You can even book a real voyage in a 40-foot waka, up the Waitangi River to Haruru Falls, with a Ngapuhi storyteller revealing the history along the way. Visit: www.waitangi.org.nz.

Local tips

Visit: www.kerikeridirectory.co.nz/waterfall-walks.

Waitangi Mountain Bike Park Offering beginner trails, cross country, jump trails and downhill riding, you’ll find 30 trails weaving through the Waitangi Endowment Forest. It’s free entry, but donations are appreciated, and bike hire is available. Visit: www.ridewaitangi.nz.

Golden coastlines, clear blue waters and idyllic bays rivalling the Pacific Islands will blow away winter cobwebs. Matauri Bay, Mahinepua, Taupo Bay, and Hihi are just some of our tourism jewels. For an authentic taste of the Far North, take a road trip to discover towns with the historic charm of Russell, handmade crafts at Manganui or local characters at the Whangaroa Sports Fishing Club.

Opua

Visit: www.whangaroasportsfishingclub.co.nz.

Visit: www.bayofislandsvintagerailway.org.nz.

A short drive from Paihia, Opua is where you catch the vehicle ferry to Russell. Opua is also the east coast end of the Twin Coast Cycle trail (more on that later). The trail includes a stop at an historic vintage railway station (Taumarere). Time it right and you can catch the train service to Kawakawa - Saturday to Tuesday in winter.

The temperature’s an obvious one. It can still reach 17 degrees here in winter months.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 39

Destinations | The Winterless North

Hokianga, Kaikohe and the west Twin Coast Cycle trail - Pou Herenga Tai This 87 km cycle trail links the Hokianga Harbour to the Bay of Islands. Ride alongside picturesque waterways, across swing bridges and follow disused rail corridors. The trail is split into four sections that can be tackled individually, or all together, and in either direction. Most riders spread the journey across two days, staying overnight at one of the numerous B&Bs or boutique accommodation options. Bike hire and shuttles are available. Visit: www.twincoastcycletrail.kiwi.nz

Manea: Footprints of Kupe This new cultural centre in Opononi invites you into the world of Kupe, the discoverer of Aotearoa. It uses film, performance, and digital interaction to immerse you in Kupe’s voyage and discoveries through guide storytelling. Visit: www.hokianga.com/manea.

Koutu boulders These ball formations are a short walk up the beach at low tide. They’re less well-known but much bigger than the Moeraki boulders. The Wairere Boulders are also worth a visit. Hundreds of fluted basalt block clusters stretch for 1.8 km. They’re part of a private nature reserve that includes walking trails, kayak hire, camping and a café. Visit: www.hokianga.com/destinations/southhokianga/koutu, or www.wairereboulders.co.nz

You can pick and choose to create a Winterless North experience that warms your heart for many winters to come. So, throw off your Canterbury woolies and let’s go.

Ngāwha Springs Te Waiariki Ngawha Springs is a set of natural geothermal hot pools just five minutes from Kaikohe. These mineral baths are undergoing a major revamp and new facilities are due to open by April 2021. In the meantime, smaller springs The Temp (or Ginns), sit behind the redevelopment and offer eight pools of different temperatures. These are available for private group bookings and public sessions. Visit: www.ngawha.nz.

Local tips Hokianga Express This locally owned and operated service can ferry you from Opononi to the dunes across the harbour for sandboarding fun and to explore the beach and sandstone formations. Tickets are available from the Hokianga i-SITE at Opononi. Visit: www.hokianga.com/activities/ adventure/hokianga-express-charters.

Fresh fish straight off the boat Some secrets are better shared in person. Visit the local i-SITE if you want to know where, when and who sells fish fresh straight from the sea. Visit: www.fndc.govt.nz/Visiting-the-FarNorth/Visitor-Information-Centres/Hokiangai-SITE-Visitor-Information-Centre.

Mangonui Motel Coming from the South we know how much you will enjoy your time in the far north. The temperature alone will make you feel great.

Chester & Debbie Scott Phone: 09 406 0346 Mobile: 027 225 1156 Email: info@mangonuimotel.co.nz

www.mangonuimotel.co.nz 40 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Staying in Mangonui will position you well to take advantage of exciting day trips. Being within 2 hours of Cape Reinga and the Hokianga makes it the perfect hub to base yourself for a few days. You will be able to fill your days exploring beautiful beaches, learning some local history and experiencing some scenic walks. In the evening you can take advantage of wandering down to enjoy our great fish & chip

shops, cafes and restaurants. Maybe you would just like to have a cold drink and catch up with the friendly locals. For the keen fishing people, you can throw your line in from the shore or jump on one of our fantastic Charter boats. Come and stay at Mangonui Motels and if we are full there are other great places to stay.

Book Direct

www.mangonuimotel.co.nz 027 225 1156 09 4060346 Mangonui Motel on Google Facebook Instagram

Destinations | The Winterless North

Twin Coast Discovery Highway Like the name suggests, this highway makes it possible to enjoy both Northland coasts without doubling back, so as the locals say it’s “discovery all the way”.

Te Hiku including Cape Reinga, Kaitaia and the Northern Bays Karikari Peninsula Wedged between Doubtless Bay and Rangaunu Bay, you’re spoiled for choice for unspoilt beaches on Karikari Peninsula. Maitai Bay, Rangiputa Beach or Puheke Beach are just a few idyllic spots for swimming, paddling, snorkelling or fishing.

Visit: www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/ places-to-go/northland/places/karikaripeninsula/things-to-do/maitai-bay-campsite.

Ahipara Surfing

Walking the entire trail is a substantial undertaking, so tackling it in small sections might appeal more. Or a short walk to the iconic lighthouse, to see where the Tasman Sea meets spectacularly with the Pacific Ocean, might be more your speed.

I would be breaking the surf code if I told you about all the surf spots around the Far North, so I’ll let this website do the talking starting with Ahipara. Te Paki also gets a mention and is famous for its sandboarding too.

Visit: www.teararoa.org.nz.

Visit: www.surfseeker.nz/surf breaks/ northland/ahipara-beach.

Farmers markets, craft markets, produce stalls and honesty boxes punctuate Far North life from Kaikohe to Kerikeri, and Mangōnui to Towai. The regular Kaitaia Saturday market bustles in the town centre with craft bargains, food and fresh produce.

Cape Reinga The Te Araroa Trail is a 3,000 km walking track that starts at Cape Reinga and traverses the length of the country.

Local tips

Bookings Cape Reinga trips and other activities (Ninety Mile Beach/Te-Oneroa-a-Tohe) are usually cheaper from Kaitaia and quicker (it’s only 1.5 hours to Cape Reinga). The i-SITE at Te Ahu can book these and scenic flights, horse treks, fishing charters and winery trips in the area. Ask about the night time nature tours to see the glow worms too. Visit: www.kaitaianz.co.nz.

Kaitaia Markets

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 41

Focus On | Waimakariri

Improving Waimakariri’s biodiversity The Waimakariri Water Zone Committee Biodiversity Working Group is seeking trustees for an independent community-based Biodiversity Trust that will work collaboratively to improve the local environment. Biodiversity Working Group member, Dr Judith Roper-Lindsay, says they are seeking people from a variety of age groups and backgrounds to reflect the diverse range of people living in Waimakariri who are interested in the protection, restoration, and development of native biodiversity.

“We’re aiming for a collaborative approach and want to create a cohesive Waimakariri Biodiversity Trust where everyone works together to restore and enhance biodiversity so that we can protect and develop our local sustainable indigenous ecosystems. “It’s an inclusive approach which brings together different ways of looking at our biodiversity including Matauranga Maori. “I am really keen to see younger people getting involved, along with people who are living in our towns, lifestyle blocks and farms so that we can really reflect who we are as a community and learn from each other.”

plans and provide guidance on weed and pest management, along with the monitoring and maintenance of these areas.” The Trust aims to employ a coordinator who will help landowners to restore areas of indigenous biodiversity on public and private land by sourcing plants, organising fencing, and planting, and providing access to specialists with expert skills in environmental fields.

If you are interested in applying to become a trustee of the Waimakariri Biodiversity Trust, please email Judith at: judith@roperlindsay.com to receive an application pack or to find out more information. CT

Facilitating waterway and riparian enhancement projects, especially those located along the plains and coast is another important aspect of the group’s planned work.

Judith says the Trust will take a district-wide approach to indigenous biodiversity protection and restoration with a strong focus on practical actions which will achieve measurable outcomes.

Funding will be sought from a range of sources including local and national government. Working in tandem with other organisations with similar aims while engaging with schools and community groups is key to ensuring the success of the Trust, says Judith.

“We know there are many people in Waimakariri who want to enhance biodiversity areas in their backyard or in the wider community, but it is difficult to get clear advice on what to plant so we will help locals prepare planting

“Raising awareness of the importance of protecting Waimakariri’s biodiversity is vital. We want to work together with other groups and organisations to provide the best outcome for the future of our natural ecosystems.”

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Raising awareness of the importance of protecting Waimakariri’s biodiversity is vital. We want to work together with other groups and organisations to provide the best outcome for the future of our natural ecosystems. - Biodiversity Working Group member, Dr Judith Roper-Lindsay

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info@portablespas.co.nz portablespas.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 43

Destinations | Mid-Canterbury

Mid-Canterbury – a must for any South Island trip Your South Island experience begins within just an hour’s drive from Christchurch International Airport, whether you’re driving north, south, east or west, MidCanterbury is the perfect stop. Getting there couldn’t be easier. Stay as long as you can to explore MidCanterbury to the fullest. With stunning snow-capped mountains as its backdrop and boarded by impressive braided rivers and crystal-clear lakes, the scenery is so magnificent it will take your breath away. Experience Mid-Canterbury’s dining options from relaxed cafes and bars to romantic dining. Our diverse region has something to satisfy all tastes and budgets. Mid-Canterbury is one of the great secrets of New Zealand, with an inspiring range of both energetic and relaxing activities. Join us for a journey of exploration and exhilaration.

Top 10 Key Experiences 1. Adventure Ballooning

4. Hakatere Conservation Park

Take a scenic balloon flight over the Canterbury Plains, including a champagne breakfast on landing.

Venture into the high country and explore our outdoor recreational paradise be it biking or walking and home of Mt Sunday a Lord of the Rings film location.

2. Mt Hutt Ski Area Take to the slopes at the world-renowned Mt Hutt Ski Area, with its great natural snow and one of the longest ski seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. The #1 New Zealand Ski Field for six years running: 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.

3. Ashburton Aviation Museum Do not miss a visit to the Ashburton Aviation Museum, one of New Zealand’s finest. Exhibiting the only Harrier Jump-Jet in the Southern Hemisphere.

5. Discovery Jet Jet boating in the stunning Rakaia Gorge, learning about the geography whilst doing 360-degree spins.

6. Dirt Bandits Cam Am Trails Experience the awesome adrenalin rush with Dirt Bandits, New Zealand’s Premier UTV motorsport experience.

7. Golf Mid-Canterbury is your gateway to playing on six of the finest golf courses.

Snowman Shuttles Daily Ski Transport from Christchurch and Methven to Mt Hutt. Sightseeing and Learn to Ski Packages Available Phone. 0800 SNOWMAN or 03 337 5750 Email. info@snowmanshuttles.co.nz Website. snowmanshuttles.co.nz 44 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

With door-to-door services from Christchurch and Methven it has never been easier to get to Mt Hutt than with Snowman Shuttles. No problems with car parking or chain fitting as your driver will deliver you directly to the ticket office and is an expert at fitting snow chains. There is plenty of room in the bus to bring your own equipment or you can choose to hire on the mountain.

8. Erewhom Station and Mt Sunday Experience Erewhom Station is picturesque 3,500-acre farm nestled in the Southern Alps, providing a magnificent backdrop for the Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers movie. Edoras the capital of Rohan is located on Mt Sunday. The station offers a one-hour wagon ride with Clydesdale horses.

9. Ashburton Domain Thirty-seven hectares of beautiful open space, lawns, gardens. It is the jewel in the Ashburton crown.

10. Trotts Community Garden A recognised Garden of International Significance having been awarded six stars by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.

Services are not limited to skiers and snowboarders. Sightseeing guests can also come up with Snowman Shuttles and ride the chairlift to get magnificent views of the Southern Alps and the Canterbury Plains. Your driver is always happy to point out some of the features in the landscape as well. Snowman Shuttles has been providing services to Mt Hutt since 2006 and has traversed the Mt Hutt access road 1000’s of times. Their high standards of service have resulted in 5 star rankings from reviews on Facebook, Google, and Trip Advisor. In 2020, they achieved the Travellers’ Choice award on trip advisor.

For more information about services and for online bookings see their website:

www.snowmanshuttles.co.nz

Destinations | Mid-Canterbury

Key Events Wheels Week – Ashburton

Peak to Pub – Mt Hutt

1st – 16th May 2021

18th September 2021

An iconic event focused on all things with wheels.

Mt Hutt’s Peak to Pub is not just for the hard core, this race is achievable for anyone who is interested in challenging themselves physically and mentally. From New Zealand’s top multi sporters to enthusiastic amateurs seeking fun and personal triumph everyone is sure to have a blast.

Mt Hutt Ski Area 2021 Opening 11th June 2021 This is your moment to shred, put your feet into a pair of boots and clip-in. Mt Hutt has extensive facilities and packages that cater to all skiers and snowboarders.

Boulevard Day – Ashburton 27th September 2021 Ashburton Boulevard Day is in it 45th year encouraging visitors to Ashburton to try local style and cuisine.

National Pickleball Tournament – Ashburton 16th – 18th July 2021 Pickleball is a paddleball sport, that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. Pickleball attracts people from all walks of life. This is a three-day annual event.

Whiteout 2021 – Methven

The Salmon Run – Rakaia 16th October 2021 The Salmon Run is a multi-sport event, a bike, kayak, run completion, short and long duathlons, half marathon or a mountain.

7th August 2021 Whiteout’s purpose is to bring a worldclass Winter Festival to Methven / Mt Hutt. Whiteout is a mixture of entertainment + music in a single one-day format.

Mid-Canterbury a must, for any South Island trip. Located in the South Island (Te Wai Pounamu) of New Zealand 1 hours drive from Ōtautahi Christchurch. Mid Canterbury is home to a huge number of activities and attractions in Ashburton (Hakatere), Methven (Piwakawaka), Rakaia, Mt Somers (Te Kiekie), Staveley, Hinds, and Mt Hutt.

www.midcanterburynz.com #midcanterburynz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 45

Destinations | Mid-Canterbury

1. Relax and Rejuvenate

2. Ski & Snowboard

Revive on Oakview

Opuke Thermal Pools

Methven Heliski

Big Al's

Take a break from your everyday worries and retreat to a hidden piece of paradise. Enjoy the day spa and the fabulous relaxing beauty treatments on offer, you are guaranteed some time in our tranquil hidden oasis will leave you feeling rested and revitialised.

Sourced from the mountains, Powered by the Sun, Opuke Pools is a premium-quality and sustainable hot pools and spa facility in the heart of Mid Canterbury. Located in Methven, the facility will attract visitors from all corners of NZ and the rest of the world. The Opuke Thermal pools and Spa creates a unique point of difference in the NZ hot pools and wellness market.

An opportunity of a life-time to heliski one of NZ's mighty glaciated mountain ranges – The Arrowsmiths. Methven Heliski's ski and snowboarding packages include Multi day trips and private charter helisking. A standard package features s incredible runs in NZ Southern Alps.

Big Al's has been forever recognised as a leading store on snow equipment and boot fitting. Big Al's team go out of their way to make their store a hassle-free, convenient and personal.

Mid-Canterbury offers a wide range of outdoor experiences, walking, cycling, skiing. So, it's no wonder that we have a strong presence of spa and relaxation products across the region.

www.reviveonoakview.co.nz

Bellissimo Oat Spa

Mt Hutt and the surrounding mountains offer the ultimate New Zealand ski and snowboarding experience. Longest runs in NZ, longest season in NZ and the best opportunity to learn to ski or snowboard in NZ.

www.methvenheli.co.nz

www.opuke.nz

Indulge all your senses, let go of all your worries and escape to Bellissimo Day Spa, Bellissimo provide superior highly professional service and a memorable experiemce in a relaxing welcoming atmosphere.

The Salt House

www.bellissimodayspa.co.nz

www.thesalthouse.co.nz

Salt House is a Complementary Therapies Clinic located in the alpine village of Methven. Providing drug free and non-invasive techique that assist the bodv to restore balance naturally.

Adventure Balloons NZ

SPECTACULAR SCENERY From the Southern Alps of New Zealand across the Canterbury Plains and beyond…

Methven Travel offer modern and comfortable shuttles servicing Methven, Mt Hutt and the surrounding areas. Operating a fleet of modern vans and touring coaches, during the winter months Methven Travel operate up to three return services per day up to the Mt Hutt Base car park

www.methventravel.co.nz

www.mthutt.co.nz

THE FLIGHT About Your Experience

Flight Information

Flights take place early morning, when the weather conditions are calm and stable,and so suitable for balloon flights.

Flights take place early mornings, when the weather conditions are stable.

You will be able to get involved and help our crew with setting the balloon up ready for flight and packing away afterwards.

www.adventureballoonsnz.com 46 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Mt Hutt Ski Area Skiing and snowboarding on a mountain covered in fresh snow with beautiful views over the Canterbury Plains, makes for a spectacular experience you'll never forget. Mt Hutt – voted NZ's best ski resort for the past six years – offers superb customer experiences, including the kids 4 free deal. In the 2021 season, Mt Hutt will launch its new 8-seater chairlift called the NorWest Express. One of its kind in NZ.

Methven Travel

We meet in Methven Town Centre before you travel a short distance with us to one of our launch sites, which will be chosen to give you the very best flight experience depending on the weather conditions on the day. Transport can also be arranged to and from Christchurch if required, please let us know when booking your flight.

Phone. 03 302 8172 Email. info@adventureballoonsnz.com

www.bigals.co.nz

The actual flight will last for around an hour, when you’ll enjoy the unique and very special experience of a hot air balloon flight flying at up to 6000ft, with superb long distance views across Canterbury Plains and the dramatic Southern Alps including Mount Cook and beyond, as well as the Rakaia Gorge, and its glacial river as it flows out towards the coast. After we’ve landed we’ll enjoy a celebratory drink before transporting you back to Methven.

We will transport you from the meeting point in Methven to the launch site, and also back after your flight. We can also arrange transport to and from Christchurch if required, please let us know when booking your flight. Allow up to 4 hours for the whole experience. Find out more about where to stay, eat, drink and other things to do in and around Methven and the Canterbury Plains. Your Safety As with any air operator, we are regulated by the CAA, including our pilots and equipment which are all required to undergo annual tests. You will receive full safety briefing from your pilot before your flight. We will only fly if the weather conditions are suitable to ensure a safe flight, and if not suitable the flight will be cancelled. If this happens then you will have the opportunity to then reschedule your flight.

Destinations | Mid-Canterbury

3. Adventure

Venture into high country wilderness on foot, by mountain bike, on horse-back or by 4WD. Experience jet boating through the stunning Rakaia Gorge or hold tight on a grades whitewater raft or choose from one of many airborne adventures on offer.

Discovery Jet From and ancient volcanic gorge to the towering Southern Alps you will be in awe of the scenery and what is around every twist and turn on this magificant tour. An adrenalin-pumping experience you'll never forget, jump onboard Discovery Jet and blast along the ever-changing Rakaia River.

www.discoveryjet.co.nz

Dirt Bandits Get ready for the experience of a lifetime. NZ's premier UTV Motorsport Experience. Utilsing a purpose built UTV circuit on the banks of the Rakaia River, the Dirt Bandits experience is raw, dirty and adrenalin fuelled. Extensive driver experience, so safety is at the forefront of the experience.

www.dirtbandits.co.nz

Newzengland Clay Shooting & Archery Newzengland offer a range of outdoor activities for individuals, groups of friends and corporate team building. Located jj15 minutes from Methven.

www.newzengland.co.nz

4. Food and Hospitailty

Mix, sip and dance your way around Mid-Canterbury; quirky bars and chic urban hangouts sum up the nightlife scene that is Mid-Canterbury. Breathe in our clean fresh air, enjoy stunning natural scenery. Enjoy true Kiwi hospitality at its best.

Blue Pub Methven

Stronechrubie Restaurant

Right in middle of Mt Hutt village you'll find the Blue Pub Methven, and you can't miss it because it's, well... blue! Perfectly located a short drive from no less than six ski fields and the famous Mt Hutt. Inside you'll find a warm welcome, cold beer, excellent wine, delicious food and a relaxing environment.

Stronechrubie offers an award-winning a la Carte restaurant with a fine dining or a family bistro style option. Set in the majestic town of Mt Somers.

Adventure Balloons (NZ) Limited

www.thebluepub.com

There can be few finer places to take a balloon flight than across the Canterbury Plains. Take off close to the foothills of Mt Hutt, where the mountains provide shelter from the winds.

Formosa Ashburton

Unlimited airspace restrictions up to 9,500 feet, gives you fantastic views across the southern alps to Mt Cook and beyond. After landing enjoy a celebration drink and a light snack, before travelling back to Methven.

Formosa takes inspiration from traditional Taiwanese and mixes the diverse Asian cultural style, fresh flavours and chic setting. 2017 NZ International Chef Challenge Gold Medal winner. We invite you to experience Formosa – where food and wine come together passionately.

www.adventureballoonsnz.com

www.formosainash.com

www.stronechrubie.co.nz

The Dubliner Irish Bar & Restaurant Award-winning Irish bar & restaurant The Dubliner is no#l in Trip Advisor, finalists in the hospitality NZ awards for excellence in the best neighorhood bar & eatery, finalists in the Champion Canterbury awards, and winners of the David award & 2018 NZ Beef & Lamb award. What more can we say! The team work hard to provide a warm, cozy atmosphere, complemented by great food, music and a pint of stout.

www.dubliner.co.nz

Nawab Eatery

Taste of India A graceful ambience and good food bring people together and make lifetime memories with friends and family.

121 main Street, Methven, 7730 P: 33029025 E: info@nawabeatery.co.nz

nawabeatery.co.nz

Welcome to the world of Nawab Eatery which is famous for delicious food and blissful ambience. We provide the perfect place for family & friends to celebrate together in Nawab style and eat best Indian Cuisines. Our chefs offer the best food from fresh ingredients which has resulted in thousands of happy customers.

Our mouthwatering recipes have helped us become the first choice for Asian food in Methven and a popular destination for visitors after a day on the slopes of Mt. Hutt.

Dine In & Take Away Open 7 Days Lunch - 11:30 am to 2:00 pm Dinner - 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm

www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 47

Tourism | Hotel Ashburton

Arrive in Ashburton

The staff at Hotel Ashburton takes great pride in providing guests with warm, sincere, South Island hospitality. Hotel Ashburton boasts a variety of excellent facilities including: • 54 rooms in 3 room types (Standard, Superior & Deluxe) • 250 free off-street car parks • Eight recently renovated conference rooms • Free WiFi facilities for guests • Clearwater Restaurant • Turf Bar • Over four hectares of gardens for relaxing, wedding ceremonies, photo shoots and more.

Hotel Ashburton Front: Bearing the name of the town, Hotel Ashburton owner Johny Singh likes to think of the hotel as a part of the local community.

For many, winter is the time to retreat to the great indoors. However, considering those prone to cabin fever, Hotel Ashburton offers easy access to outdoor activities, places of interest and all the cosy comforts winter. Ashburton caters to a variety of interests. For instance, if you’re eager to hit the slopes during your stay then you’re in luck because Ashburton is just an hour’s drive from the Mt Hutt ski field. Other outdoor activities include Mt Somers Walkway and Track which offers the choice of day hiking or a more challenging circuit for experienced trampers. The track and huts are administered by DOC so be sure to get your hut tickets if you plan to tramp overnight. However, for those looking to stay warm and close to their accommodation, guests at Hotel Ashburton will enjoy a cruisy stroll to Ashford Craft Village. At the village are the Ashford spinning wheels, used to spin yarn. Also at the village is a café where crafters can enjoy a coffee while discussing their next projects.

Times are tough for everyone you know. It’s now, at this time that we should stand by each other and try to help locals. - Hotel Ashburton owner Johny Singh

For events, the hotel can cater from a group of five to a group of 1000 people. Hotel Ashburton owner Johny Singh says that anyone can make an enquiry and Hotel Ashburton will do its best to cater to any needs that might arise.

Johny says, “Guests at Hotel Ashburton will enjoy the warm atmosphere, good food and great coffee. We can cater for anything they require.”

Staying local Those who delight in all that takes flight will want to zoom over to the Ashburton Aviation Museum while train enthusiasts will appreciate the Plains Village Railway and Historical Museum located in the Tinwald Domain. The village is a historical recreation consisting of vintage steam and diesel locomotives, tractors and buildings reminiscent of pioneering times. At the Ashburton Raceway you’ll find the Harness Racing Museum which is open on trotting club race days. Of course, you’ll also find harness racing and thoroughbred racing regularly held at the raceway. Conveniently, the racetrack is just across the road from Hotel Ashburton.

Your next visit Bearing the name of the town, Hotel Ashburton owner Johny Singh likes to think of the hotel as a part of the local community.

One of the 54 rooms available at Hotel Ashburton. © Copyright Emmily Harmer.

48 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

In May, the hotel facilitated Ashburton College’s reunion, gathering students and staff from the school’s first ten years of existence. Johny says it was amazing to see some people reunited after being apart for 50 years. Keen to play a part in the many special moments of Ashburton residents’ lives, Johny is happy to have 54 hotel rooms and eight conference rooms available to cater to such events. Johny says, “We can cater from a group of five to a group of 1000 people. Anyone can give me a call and we can cater to financial needs or commercial needs.” In addition, Hotel Ashburton has 250 offstreet car parks, free WiFi facilities for guests, Clearwater Restaurant, Turf Bar, and over four hectares of gardens for relaxing, wedding ceremonies, photo shoots and more.

A few years ago, Johny and his family moved to Ashburton. With his daughter attending school in town, he feels that his family and the hotel are a part of Ashburton’s social fabric. Reflecting on the toll Covid took on the hospitality industry in New Zealand and the world, Johny says, “Times are tough for everyone you know. It’s now, at this time that we should stand by each other and try to help locals.” Taking a similar stance as Tourism New Zealand, Johny believes the best way forward is for Kiwis to enjoy all that New Zealand has CT to offer. Hotel Ashburton 11/35 Racecourse Road Allenton Ashburton 0800 330 880 info@hotelash.co.nz www.hotelash.co.nz

One of the 54 rooms available at Hotel Ashburton. © Copyright Emmily Harmer.

— Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 49

Tourism | Cycle Tours

Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail opens A ceremony held at Carrick Winery celebrated the opening of Central Otago’s newest cycle trail, the Lake Dunstan Cycle and Walking Trail. A blessing of the trail followed by Minster of Tourism, Hon. Stuart Nash alongside Central Otago Queenstown Trails Trust (COQTNT) patron, Sir Eion Edgar saw the cutting of the ribbon across the trail to mark the official opening. Linking trails from Clyde to Cromwell, the 59-kilometre trail passes New Zealand’s third largest hydroelectric dam – the Clyde Dam – then travels along the Cromwell Gorge towards picturesque Cornish Point and links in the nearby renowned wine growing area of Bannockburn. It continues along Lake Dunstan, through Cromwell towards an area just north of Pisa Moorings, towards Wanaka.

of the Otago Central Rail Trail and the newer Roxburgh Gorge Trail, both of which are part of Nga Haerenga – The New Zealand Cycle Trail. “Today is a day to celebrate linkages between communities and pay tribute to the foresight of those who pushed to make this happen,” Mr Nash said. “The earliest trails that linked Cromwell, Clyde, Bannockburn and further afield were by foot and packhorse before wagons, motor cars and railroads. They enabled a boom in economic fortunes for these towns and made day to day life easier for families. The humble bicycle and the Lake Dunstan Trail is the next historic moment for the area. “Cycle tourism has great potential to attract both domestic and international visitors. It is the next chapter in the economic development of the Cromwell Gorge after 160 years of goldmining, sheepfarming, orchards, hydo electricity and wine.”

The Lake Dunstan Trail project has been driven by the Central Otago Queenstown Trail Network Trust and is the first of five projects the Trust is focused on.

wonderfully engineered structures. Today is about celebrating our progress, enjoying the achievement and acknowledging the vast contribution from all parties involved.”

Construction commenced on the first part of the trail on 31 May 2019, with the portion along Lake Dunstan beyond Pisa Moorings opening for the summer of 2019.

Central Lakes Trust Chair, Linda Robertson says she is proud of the significant achievement to date in formulating these initial stages of the network construction. “This is a huge initiative for our region. It will create a world-class and accessible trail network traversing some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes.”

Trust Chairman, Stephen Jeffery says, “The final push through to Clyde saw some delays. But it has been well worth the additional time to ensure the result is in keeping with the high standard of work on our trails to date. “There has been significant interest in the trail, for a project that started in the planning stages in 2014, and a build that has spanned almost two years, we have come a long way. We have a quality asset we can be proud of, showcasing our stunning Central Otago region. The trail takes you through amazing scenery, which would otherwise be inaccessible, past some fascinating historic sites and onto

Otago Community Trust Chair, Diccon Sim said he was excited to hear that the much anticipated first of the five trail projects being developed by the Central Otago Queenstown Trail Network Trust is complete. COQTNT are simultaneously working on the link through to Queenstown with a 3km trail along Felton Road due for completion at the end of May and the remaining Kawarau Gorge in consenting stages, and then, will develop the trail through to Luggate, near Wanaka. CT

The Lake Dunstan Trail extends, and complements, the well-established Great Rides

ON YOUR BIKE HIRE • Mountain Bike Tracks • Bike Hires: Adults, Children’s, Bikes with child seats, Trailers also available including a Tandem Trailer • Charlis Hub: Great Coffee/Cold drinks/Snacks/Ice creams It’s all about Charli at Charli’s Hub. “Charli comes to work with me every weekend. Our customers love her and are really disappointed if she happens to miss a day. We tend to think of her as the boss around here and I think Charli loves that.”

MAKE A DAY OF FAMILY FUN, LOTS OF PICNIC AREAS Contact Di 021 208 2532 for any queries | P. 03 348 1738 | E. onyourbikehire@gmail.com 810 McLeans Road, opposite Orana Park | www.onyourbikehire.co.nz 50 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Tourism | Industry News

Star gazing heats up at Tekapo Springs The weather’s cooling down but things are heating up for Australian visitors looking to head to New Zealand this winter. Tekapo Springs, in the South Island’s legendary Mackenzie region, is inviting Aussie friends to experience the ultimate winter wonderland – ice skating, snow tubing and hot pools by day, and New Zealand’s only guided hot pools and star gazing tour by night.

Tekapo Springs started out with an Olympic-sized outdoor ice rink then developed the hot pools, day spa and café. Regular ice hockey games are a huge crowd pleaser as is a thrilling 150m snow tube park. Tekapo Star Gazing is now entering its fourth year, introducing guests to the wonder of the dazzling Southern night skies. The tour is a unique blend of astronomy and storytelling, transporting guests to the limits of outer space followed by an exclusive hot pool experience that leaves them feeling like they’re soaking in the stars! Tekapo Springs Sales and Marketing manager, Andy Murray, says the township is in the heart of the largest dark sky reserve in the Southern Hemisphere and winter is the ideal time to view the galactic core of the Milky Way.

For New Zealanders who haven’t done any of the above, the challenge is on to ‘do something new’.

The business has been running for 14 years and usually welcomes around 135,000 visitors annually, but like other tourism operators, has been “The clarity is sensational, especially in July which affected by Covid. sees the gas giants of Jupiter and Saturn come out They’re counting on the winning combination of to play earlier in the evening,” he says. hot pools, snow and epic stargazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve to be a “It’s an out-of-this-world experience and a ‘mustunique drawcard which will bring visitors back. do’ on any New Zealand holiday.” Soaking in the stars at Tekapo Springs.

New Zealanders are taking longer domestic holidays New Zealanders are spending more time on holiday in their own country and are really enjoying their experiences, new research shows. TIA’s latest Domestic Visitor Satisfaction survey, carried out by Angus & Associates, has found that three in four Kiwis took an overnight domestic leisure trip in the year to March 2021. Holidaymakers are staying away for longer periods, reflecting the fact that New Zealand’s borders closed in March 2020. The number of trips lasting seven days or more

increased by two points to 19 percent, compared to the previous year, while the proportion of twonight short breaks dropped three points to 24 percent.

The pandemic has changed where Kiwis visit, with a decline in travel to Auckland and more trips to Canterbury, Queenstown and Palmerston North/Manawatu.

One respondent said, “I forgot how much fun it is to visit our own country.

One in two New Zealanders had their expectations exceeded on their most recent domestic overnight leisure trip. Only two percent said their experience was worse than expected. The overall satisfaction rated at 8.7 out of 10, consistent with the year to March 2020.

“We used to travel around New Zealand about 10 years ago and took short trips but then Australia and the Pacific Islands and other places looked more interesting. We only took day trips or overnight trips in New Zealand and now since the border closed our country has never looked better.” COVID-19 restrictions changed people’s travel habits in other ways, with travel for events falling to 13 percent down from 18 percent. Visiting family and friends remained stable at 36 percent.

Chris Roberts TIA chief executive www.tia.orgo.nz

Almost three in four New Zealanders would actively “Even for the most well-travelled Kiwis, there are still plenty of new experiences for them to discover recommend Aotearoa as a holiday destination to and enjoy in their own backyard.” friends and family. TIA chief executive Chris Roberts says, “Even though our Australian manuhiri are starting to return, New Zealanders can still be assured of a warm welcome from tourism operators around the country.

The TIA/Angus & Associates survey questions New Zealanders on their perceptions of regional travel. It complements other domestic market research carried out by Tourism New Zealand.

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Tourism | Eliza’s Manor Boutique Hotel

A host of history

We take on different roles throughout our lifetimes. Celebrating its 160th birthday, Eliza’s Manor is no exception. The facility has had many different functions throughout Christchurch’s history but currently it stands Photos © Copyright Chris Sharpe. as a boutique hotel.

On 16 April of this year, Eliza’s Manor marked the establishment’s birthday with a grand relaunch which also celebrated the renovations that took place previously. Eliza’s Manor general manager Aniko Chahine says, “The total refurbishment of the inside and outside of the building is very obvious from the moment you step in or drive into the carpark and step through the front door. “This manor is 160 years old this year, so we thought it would be a perfect time to bring it back to life and give it back to Christchurch.” It’s safe to say that the launch was a major success and the team at Eliza’s Manor is proud of what it has achieved. Event attendees were amazed and appreciated what the owners of Eliza’s Manor had done with the place.

The hotel’s most recent transformation

“We're fortunate enough to have great staff on hand. We can deliver great service and great food. I think that's the most important thing. “It’s when people walk in, they feel straight away the warmth, the welcoming atmosphere – the ambience of the place is still relaxing. “People can just happily sit around for hours over high tea, take it all in and enjoy the nice relaxing music, the warmth the fireplace on a cold day. “I remember when I came in 2019 and it never felt so comfortable and cosy like it is today.” One aspect of the manor that underwent the most change includes the lounge. Previously, it was used as part of the restaurant or breakfast room for the house guests. Aniko and her team transformed the space into a comfortable lounge that joins the bar. The lounge is now somewhere guests can sit down and have a glass of wine, listen to music, play chess, or wait to be seated at the restaurant.

Since 1861, Eliza’s Manor has taken on many roles, first as a private residence, then a hospital, boarding house, hotel, function centre and now a boutique hotel. If the walls could talk, If you’ve ever visited Eliza’s Manor over the they’d have plenty of stories to tell. years, you’ll notice other updates like a change Instead, the carefully chosen décor and service of carpet and wallpaper in the guest rooms and the choice of paint and table settings in speak for themselves. Commenting on the changes you’ll see at the manor, Aniko says, the restaurant.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 53

Tourism | Eliza’s Manor Boutique Hotel

All the renovations are a result of Aniko’s vision for the place. Something you’ll notice on the hotel’s website is the repeated saying ‘the only thing we overlook is Bealey Ave’. Much like How Aniko considered everything while renovating the hotel, the staff at Eliza’s Manor consider every detail in order to offer five-star service.

At a Glance | Bleeker Cartage

tradespeople who made Aniko’s vision come to life and the staff who kept the hotel going during renovations. Aniko says that there were many tradespeople that carried out all of the necessary renovations. Everyone she dealt with was flexible, easily contactable and willing to go out of their way to make the renovation happen.

“So, a huge thank you for every single person and company that worked on Eliza’s Manor – Aniko says, “We don't overlook any detail. When on behalf of the entire team and the owner, it comes to either hotel guests or restaurant of course.” guests, we pay attention to every detail of our service. Considering the hectic nature of working under everchanging conditions, Aniko “When any function is booked, we personalise understands that it wasn’t easy for staff to it. We don't have a package deal that we apply to work through renovations. every single function. It's all individual. Nevertheless, she claims that the staff’s “We cater for anything. This manor is such a expertise and professionalism meant the hotel unique place and people come here for unique could continue to run without a hitch; staff and very special occasions. Therefore, it's made their work look effortless. “They did an important for us to make it exactly what the amazing job to keep the place going.” guests would like to achieve. The reason why Eliza’s Manor is still standing “We pay attention to every detail, from the after 160 years is because of the people moment they walk in, and we understand what behind it all. As long as the hotel receives the they would like to achieve, how they would like same care and attention it has, we’re sure to to run their event, how to treat their own guests see it stand for many years to come. CT and we just take it to another level.”

Acknowledgements Along with hosting special events, other services Eliza’s Manor offers includes accommodation, high tea, breakfast, lunch, and canapes. Of course, the services available at Eliza’s Manor are only made possible by the

Eliza’s Manor 82 Bealey Ave Christchurch Central Christchurch (03) 366 8584 info@elizas.co.nz www.elizas.co.nz

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Getting the job done How South Canterbury’s rural transport country became one of the South Island’s most dependable cartage services

The beginnings of Bleeker Cartage were born from a straightforward idea – cartage and transport services for South Canterbury’s farmers.

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“Or the fertiliser needs to get on the paddock on time. It [having a farming background] definitely helps a lot.” The biggest difference between urban and rural transport is that nothing is ever quite the same. With urban transport, the schedule is usually the same every weekend. With rural transport, it is dictated by the needs of the agricultural sector because of its vital role in feeding the country. “For example, one week I can be carting grain to Southland, say bailage or fertiliser back up.

What started with one truck has now turned into eight, with owner-operator George Bleeker leading the charge.

“The next week I could have the stock crate carting cows away to the works or to the farms for the winter. No two weeks are ever the same.”

Son of a farmer himself, George understands the needs of farmers first hand – it’s why the company has been so successful expanding despite only being in business for seven years.

Bleeker Cartage reckons it has one of the most modern cartage fleets in the country – that translates into dependable, reliable trucks, backed by driving professionals that know how CT to get the job done.

“Our clients are mainly farmers. If it’s not farmers, it’s something related to farmers, like fertiliser from store-to-store or a back load. Everything is to do with farming,” George says. “We know the stock needs to be fed. You know when there's an order comes through for stockfeed, it needs to get there on time.

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Sip, soak and relax - a Hurunui roadie There is something truly exciting about packing up the car and heading off for a road trip with loved ones. With the prospect of a roadie comes memories of slower days, spent navigating Canterbury roads on family holidays. And of times gone by, when you begged for ice cream from the dairy that gave the biggest scoops. Or when you got a little lost on rural roads and had to ask the friendly farmer for directions. Whether you’re going for a weekend escape or a longer vacation, the 90 minute drive from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs provides that perfect roadie. It’s a chance to unwind, go at your own pace and relive days gone, while making new memories along the way. Once the life-size game of Tetris you have to play in packing the boot is complete, enjoy the boutique feel of the Hurunui, alongside the excitement of a city escape. The North Canterbury township of Amberley makes a great first pit stop. Grab a coffee from any one of the local hotspots, like the Little Vintage Espresso

or Nor’ Wester, or pop into the family-owned Brew Moon for one of their famous pizzas and exotic brews. This is a family who are passionate about serving up and creating the very best of local food and beverages in innovative ways but you’ll find this is the trend in the Hurunui…

The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa has 22 pools and four aquatic slides, including New Zealand’s largest aquatic slide, Conical Thrill. The complex’s five new Cascade Pools, situated among native bush, are a must do activity for anyone wanting to truly relax.

Greystone Winery are doing exciting things in the organic space, this year named the Sustainable Winery of the Year in the NZ Organic Wine Awards.

For the ultimate girl’s weekend away or romantic escape, add a specialised treatment at The Spa to your itinerary. This luxury day spa, located within the pools’ complex offers numerous specialised treatments, to complement a soak in the thermal pools and leave you feeling revitalised.

Situated on the slopes of the Teviotdale Hills in the Waipara Valley, Greystone is one of 90 vineyards in the North Canterbury Wine Region. Spanning nearly 200km along the eastern coastline, the region is dotted with family-owned vineyards, best known for their Pinot Noir and aromatics. Terrace Edge, Pegasus Bay, Fiddler’s Green Vineyard and Bistro, Waipara Hills, Waipara Springs and Black Estate all offer dining and sipping experiences – perfect for romantic dinners or lavish lunches. Head inland and you’ll reach the alpine village of Hanmer Springs, world-renowned for its thermal pools.

Plan your roadie through the Hurunui today – for the ultimate escape right on your doorstep.

There’s a unique atmosphere in Hanmer Springs; a laid-back, relaxed vibe that makes visitors feel like a weight has been lifted from their shoulders. Just 90 minutes from Christchurch but a world away from the hustle and bustle, this special part of the country is home to some of New Zealand’s most breath-taking scenery. Get amongst nature and fill your lungs with fresh air, enjoy lazy days in some of the region’s world-class boutique accommodation spots, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating trip to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa. visithanmersprings.co.nz

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 55

Focus On | North Canterbury

Festive delights

Next year Matariki will be marked with a public holiday, but we don’t have to wait until then to make the most of the holiday period. There are some guiding principles behind Matariki we can apply when enjoying all that North Canterbury has to offer. The rising and setting of the constellation Matariki, also known as the Pleiades, signals Maori New Year. Because the time of celebration takes place during the coldest part of the year, Te Papa suggests that Kiwis can celebrate in simple ways like joining loved ones over good food and getting outside – all of which North Canterbury can offer.

Food Matariki celebrations often incorporate food because the holiday arrives after harvest and when people would rely on stored and preserved foods to get through the winter.

After spending the morning hunting at Kings Truffles, participants will be gathered at Black Estate to enjoy a five-course lunch and wine pairings. Tickets can be purchased on Black Estate’s website, blackestate.co.nz.

Fun Of course, Hanmer Springs is always good for its relaxing pools whether it’s just a day trip or a weekend getaway at the many nearby baches. In addition to the comforts we’ve come to expect and overlapping with Matariki, Hanmer Springs will be hosting its first winter festival from July 1 to July 31, 2021. The Hanmer Springs Alpine Festival is expected to be a month of merriment consisting of activities such as ice skating, a masquerade ball, and a little Christmas in July with a Christmas lights competition. A list of events can be found at: www.visithurunui.co.nz.

Although some foods we enjoy are dependent on season, we still have access to a wide variety Also, stargazing is a great way to incorporate the outdoors into your Matariki festivities. of foods and indulgences our predecessors could only imagine. There are a couple of famous stargazing spots in New Zealand like Tekapo or Mt Cook, but An example of our comfortable place in history is the Truffle Day Out organised by Black Estate. sometimes you only have to go a little further than the reach of the city lights to get a good Unlike the chocolates many of us are familiar look at the stars. with, the truffles you’ll find while taking part in this annual event are a sort of fungus – a With loved ones close and a few hot drinks in hand you’ll be sure to beat the chill and enjoy the view. delicacy used in fine cuisine.

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Focus On | North Canterbury

Health & Safety | Drugs at the Workplace

Saliva drug testing by Canterbury Health Laboratories a New Zealand first

Among friends, family, food and drink, Matariki also revolves around the stars. Getting its name from the cluster of stars referred to as Matariki in Te Reo Maori.

If you happen to be in Christchurch during this time of light, consider taking the family to T rama Mai, a series of illuminated artworks, projections and light installations located in New Brighton and Central City starting June 25 and ending on July 10 with a firework display. CT

The event T rama Mai is produced by the Christchurch City Council and more information can be found at: www.ccc.govt.nz. — Advertising Feature

An easier and more efficient drug testing alternative to urine samples is now available for the first time in New Zealand through Canterbury Health Laboratories. A saliva drug test, also known as an oral fluid or a mouth swab drug test, can replace traditional urine tests to detect recent drug use. Many workplaces use urine tests to detect drug use as part of their health and safety efforts. Typically, these are done at specific testing locations to make sure the sample is correctly gathered and not tampered with.

Canterbury Health Laboratories head of Toxicology, Grant Moore, says the saliva test offers significant benefits for employers and is more convenient for those being tested. “Employers can have their own swab kits and do it themselves on site rather than using an external testing agency. They can also directly observe the test.

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“For those being tested it means they aren’t having to travel for their test and it is less invasive to collect a mouth swab than a urine sample,” Grant says. Use of amphetamine-type substances, opiates, cannabis and cocaine within a

preceding 24-hour period can be detected by the saliva test, depending on the substance. “The advantage of testing saliva is that urine testing picks up drugs that have passed through the body whereas saliva registers drugs that may have just been taken but have not yet been fully processed internally. “This means that, depending on an organisation’s employment policies, it could be used straight away if impairment was suspected or a workplace accident has occurred, and the test is sent away for testing with results within four to five days,” Grant says. The screening test will indicate if a substance is detected. However, just as with urine testing, if a screening test result doesn’t come back as negative, it needs to be confirmed by an accredited laboratory. Saliva drug tests are more common overseas, but Canterbury Health Laboratories is the first laboratory in New Zealand offering confirmatory testing for saliva/oral fluid tests. They also supply the swab collection kits for taking the samples. “People want their loved ones coming home safely from work. “By making drug screening easier and more convenient we hope we can help make workplaces safer for more Kiwis,” he says.

For further information on the saliva drug test kits and confirmatory testing by Canterbury Health Laboratories, contact: info@ workplacedrugtest.co.nz. — Advertising Feature

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Focus On | Selwyn & Rolleston

McKay Moore Drainage Originally Tom McKay Drainage, Mark bought the business in April 2012 and renamed it McKay Moore Drainage Ltd. The company is Selwyn-based at 900 Springs Road, Lincoln. Started with Mark Moore and Dane Willis, it now employs 23 people today. McKay Moore Drainage are Christchurch City Council-approved drainlayers. Dane Willis manages the residential division, which specialises in new housing, alterations, septic tanks, sand trenches, drip fields and disposal fields. Paddy Spencer manages the commercial division, which specialises in large commercial drainage, stormwater and sewer road openings, sewer renewals and Christchurch City Council cycleways. McKay Moore has put 16 young men through apprenticeships with Skills NZ. The company has a great team of guys, and they stand by their workmanship, striving to meet deadlines for their clients.

One thing the company is especially proud of is it kept all of its employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. Though the business has been through its ups and downs, the team is looking forward to the challenging year ahead. McKay Moore Drainage is committed to quality work, providing and maintaining safe and healthy workplaces and protecting the environment. The company makes quality, safety and health management fundamental to its business and recognises that continuous improvement is integral to its business success.

Commercial Portfolio Some of the projects McKay Moore has been involved in include Ferry Road New World, Ferry Road Fire Station, Wigram New World, the Waimak Cycleway and the PWC building in Cashel Street. The company has also been involved in various rest home projects, including Avonhead Summerset, Casebrook Summerset, and various Bupa rest homes. Housing companies McKay Moore has had the pleasure of working with are Generation Homes, Que Homes, BT Builders, Ethos Homes, Character Builders, DS Construction, and Hillview Construction, Septic Tanks & Install. CT — Advertising Feature

Awards return to celebrate Selwyn The Selwyn Awards are back in 2021 to showcase all that is great about the district. The Council-run Awards recognise the outstanding work and achievements of businesses, not-for-profit organisations and individuals who live or work within the Selwyn district.

“It’s great to be able to celebrate again, to thank those people and highlight some of the examples of how they continue to make Selwyn such a good place to live.” The awards have been given a fresh feel this year, with changes to encourage participation, highlight some of the areas of particular excellence and enhance the gala evening. The categories have been updated and the criteria adjusted.

This year the awards are presented by Iport and the Council gratefully acknowledges all of our sponsors without whom the awards would not be possible.

Awards will now be based on a points system which will allow for multiple gold, silver and bronze winners in each category along with an overall category winner.

Nominations for the 2021 awards are open till Friday 11 June.

Businesses and groups will be able to enter themselves for awards as well rather than needing to be nominated by someone else.

The awards, which were delayed last year due to COVID-19, are a celebration of excellence and inspirational accomplishments, presented during a gala evening at the Lincoln Event Centre, featuring awards presentations, dinner and live entertainment. Mayor Sam Broughton says it’s great to see the awards back to give another opportunity to celebrate the success of people who contribute so much to our district. “Selwyn is great mix of diverse people and organisations involved in building our community through the jobs they create, the businesses they operate, their voluntary contribution and beyond.

The awards dinner in July also includes further enhancements to recognize excellence, and put on a celebration to take the awards to a whole new level, Council Group Manager Community Services Denise Kidd says. “The Selwyn Awards is a fantastic way to recognise the great work of so many people in Selwyn and it’s become an important night on people’s calendars. We want to make sure that we’re continuing to provide a fitting celebration of this community and we’re looking forward to a really good night at this year’s awards.” CT — Advertising Feature

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STAINLESS STEEL EXPERTS Mechanical / Light fabrication and installation contractor Marshall Stainless is made up of stainless craftsmen who have the passion to deliver excellence with a competitive high end quality service, that will bring your ideas to reality. With over 10 years of welding and mechanical knowledge, Marshall Stainless is a onsite/mobile service in your area.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 59

Focus On | Timaru

$40 million, five-year road contract awarded The $40million, five-year contract to maintain all of Timaru District’s roads has been awarded to incumbent contractor Fulton Hogan. The council awarded its road network operations and maintenance contract for 20212026 to Fulton Hogan, which scored highest on the quality attributes were the lowest tender price. The contract includes maintenance and operation of the 1,723km long Timaru District road network, footpath maintenance and renewals, pavement rehabilitation and minor capital improvement works. Land Transport manager Susannah Ratahi says the Council was looking for a supplier who could help it deliver more than business as usual. “Innovating and continually developing our approach to road maintenance is key to ensuring we best meet the needs of our community, meet the increasing demands on our road network, and deliver our ratepayers better value for money.” “The calibre of all the tenders received for the contract were of an incredibly high standard. “Fulton Hogan’s local track record and commitment to innovation and development — Continued on Page #62

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Peter Hayes Golf. GOLF & Peter Hayes - the name and the man seem to go hand and hand in South Canterbury. Peter's love of golf started in his early teens. From his first official handicap he was hooked and has had an illustrious amateur career with over 170 provincial games for South Canterbury / Aorangi, & 20 club championships. Serving on the New Zealand Golf Council and then a New Zealand Golf selector.

At 50 Peter decided to change his amateur status went to Senior Australia PGA Q School where he finished third and got his PGA ranking. From there Peter retained his pro touring card with the Legends’ tour and has won eight first place titles. In June 2019 Peter Hayes Golf was established with the re-opening of a

Pro-shop to now a Driving Practice Range new Pro-Shop and small café within the all weather complex. Peter Hayes Golf. & Glen-iti Golf Course (36 Oakwood Road, Hadlow, Timaru) is becoming the destination for all things Golf in Timaru. Peter Hayes Golf. 0274362919

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Whether it’s to improve your game, give golf a go or have some fun, our new purpose built driving range is the place for you. Visiting Peter Hayes Golf driving range is a great idea for social gatherings, work groups and events, families, friends, churches, schools, holiday programmes, special needs groups, sports teams and youth groups.

Gleniti Golf Club 36 Oakwood Road, Timaru 7974 P 03 686 0305 M 027 436 2919 E info@peterhayesgolf.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 61

Focus On | Timaru in areas such as road safety and performance management were seen as particular strengths by the tender evaluation panel.”

The calibre of all the tenders received for the contract were of an incredibly high standard.

Breadth and depth of local knowledge, high levels of technical capability and robust resourcing were also highlighted as strengths.

"The announcement is great news for our team. Being part of a collaborative contract allows greater flexibility to bring smart and innovative ideas to the table, and this ultimately drives value for money and improved levels of service. This is only possible when teams work together.

“With more than 90 staff servicing the Timaru Brett King, executive divisional manager, Central District we are committed to being part of the South Island – West Coast, says the Fulton Hogan community for the next five years and beyond, and are looking forward to the next stage of team had closely worked with Council for more than 12 years to implement a number of innovation a fully collaborative partnership with Timaru District Council." ideas, develop a great contract team and support road maintenance systems and operations.

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Are you looking for a different kind of automotive workshop - one that is focused on helping you, rather than increasing the size of your bill from the moment you walk in the front door? Well, The Muffler & Auto Shop in Timaru is that automotive workshop, we are a small business that offers its quality workmanship at reasonable prices.

The contract was developed in collaboration with Waimate District Council, meaning that a similar framework will be applied to the maintenance and supervision of the road maintenance contracts in both Districts. The new contract will take effect on July 1, 2021 and will run for five years. CT For more information about road maintenance and an overview of all current projects, visit: timaru.govt.nz/forwardworks. Information sourced from: www.timaru.govt.nz. — Advertising Feature

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Bleeker Cartage Starting with one truck from his Makikihi farmer father, George Bleeker started Bleeker Cartage seven years ago. Now, it employs seven people full time, as well as himself, with eight state-of-theart cartage vehicles. With the most modern fleet in the country, Bleeker Cartage specifically caters to the needs of the farming and the rural community. George grew up as ‘a bit of a farm kid’, as he describes it, as his father was a cropping

farmer, so the team at Bleeker Cartage intimately understands what is required from a rural transport company.

It’s bittersweet, really. It’s turned out so well. When I started, I always thought I would go back to farming, but I don’t think I will now, George Bleeker Owner-operator | Bleeker Cartage

The South Canterbury company can be seen carting livestock,

bailage and more up and down the South Island. Beyond that, Bleeker Cartage is there for all your bulk, spreading, blowing and general cartage requirements. If your trip requires it, Bleeker Cartage is more than willing to travel to the North Island to get what you need there when you need it. Dependable crew and reliable trucks – what more can you want from your Canterbury born and bred transport company?

BLEEKER CARTAGE FOR ALL YOUR BULK, SPREADING AND BLOWING, LIVESTOCK AND GENERAL CARTAGE REQUIREMENTS

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PH. 027 306 1809 / E. BLEEKERCARTAGE@XTRA.CO.NZ 44 Makikihi Beach Road Makikihi, New Zealand 7978 www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 63

Focus On | South Canterbury

Great entries received for Ara Business Excellence Awards The South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce has received 75 entries for the Ara Business Excellence Awards, “in a real demonstration of confidence and capability,” chief executive Wendy Smith says. The entries are of an extremely high standard and the judges will be challenged to select three to five finalists in each area and then to choose the overall winners. After the need to postpone the Business Excellence Awards in 2020 due to Covid-19, there was a level of uncertainty re businesses' appetite to enter the well-recognised Ara Business Excellence Awards with a new date and format in 2021.

The usual categories are now supplemented with a Global Exporter Category supported by PrimePort and the Special Awards featuring key themes for businesses including workplace safety, innovation and the application of technology, sustainability and environmental practices, support and leadership, and a new RSM Supporting Local Award. The entries are diverse and display the passion and innovation that has ensured South Canterbury has continued to punch above its weight. Wendy says “It has been humbling to see the work that our businesses have completed and the pride in the extra efforts from their teams”.

In addition to the benefits for businesses, the awards play an important part in lifting the overall profile of South Canterbury, raising awareness of our business sectors for the economic benefit of all South Cantabrians. The judging process is currently underway, and finalists will be announced on the 14th May with the Gala Event night being held on the 18th June. “Every entry and every business that has entered the awards deserves recognition, this has been a tough year for everyone, and the Ara BEA entries are of an extremely high standard,” Wendy says.

“This event would not be possible without our generous family of sponsors and everyone has stayed with us on this journey. Recognising the importance of the awards and the need to celebrate so many successes and achievements throughout the year.” Look out for the Ara Business Excellence Awards tabloid that is distributed in the Timaru Herald and always provides an excellent overview of our finalists and be prepared to vote in the People’s Choice Award ensuring our businesses and our teams receive recognition. CT Information sourced from: www.scchamber.org.nz.

— Advertising Feature

The Ara Business Excellence Awards recognise and celebrate business excellence, playing an important role in promoting and strengthening economic development in the region.

Entering these prestigious awards provides businesses with a rare opportunity to take a However, business owners, managers and team step back from day-to-day operations and leaders have engaged enthusiastically, attending review the operations from a fresh perspective. the workshops across the three districts in Past winners have found the entry process not record numbers. only highly rewarding and motivating, but also of immense strategic value in positioning their In the same way that our business community and not for profit sector has battled through the business for long-term, sustainable growth. Covid-19 environment, many business teams Entrants benefit from significant local media now wish to engage and showcase coverage, with category and supreme winners their achievements. able to leverage their success in on-going advertising and communications activity well The entries are well spread across all the categories and the special awards. past the immediate event period.

About South Canterbury South Canterbury is made up of three districts, Timaru, Mackenzie and Waimate, with the other towns in South Canterbury - Temuka, Geraldine, Pleasant Point,

64 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Fairlie, Twizel, Glenavy and Saint Andrews. Exploring South Canterbury is a must do for so many reasons - from its nature walks to its star gazing, cafes and galleries – there is something for everyone.

Industrial Controls is a solution provider for industry. Specialising in industrial electrical automation systems, they are key suppliers to the dairy industry, food & beverage processors and manufacturers, wool industry, cold storage, timber industry, meat industry, water, waste water, and local body infrastructure.

Industrial Controls was

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industry with fast paced technological A move to larger premises in Timaru with development of the former change the learning continues with Timaru Herald Building into a full suite many of the team going on to gain of offices and workshop has provided further qualifications and skills in opportunity to expand the team, Instrumentation, Functional Safety which comes with it the ability to and Hazardous Areas. provide greater support to a growing client base. The breadth and depth of The team work closely with the industry in Timaru is also a drawcard client to turn concepts into reality, for those at the top of their field in supporting the differing needs of this industry or for those graduates clients no matter the size of their looking for roles that allow them to operations. The ability of the team to add local expertise and apply cutting gain experience across a wide range of industry. edge technology to run operations

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 65

Focus On | Cromwell

Spoilt for choice

If you’re looking for something a bit more central, Wooing Tree Vineyard is also a good option, located in the heart of Cromwell and opposite the town’s famous fruit sculpture, it’s a spot that’s hard to miss.

You could be forgiven for getting lost in all that Cromwell has to offer – from wineries to action packed adventures, it has all you need for a lakeside hotspot. Plus, with everything tourist spots Wanaka and Queenstown have in common - just without the masses, it’s no wonder the town is gaining in popularity. Known for its gold mining history which stems right back to the 1800s – many now come to explore some of the best wineries, cellar doors and vineyards New Zealand has on offer. With Cromwell’s neighbour Bannockburn just, a stone’s throw away and ten wineries to enjoy

between the two - you are sure to be spoilt for choice.

Mt Difficulty also produces some of the best wine in New Zealand with their famous Mt Difficulty and Roaring Meg brands a crowd favourite.

We are a small family business based in Cromwell. Courtney McDowell

PH. 027 716 9212 A/H. 03 445 4207 66 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

If you have more of a taste for adventure you can even experience it all from the air.

Known for its Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, the vineyard offers stunning views out to a glacial mountain valley.

Heliview Flights offer a range of scenic helicopter flights form their base at Cromwell Aerodrome where you can take in the stunning views of the Southern Alps.

If wine isn’t your thing, Cromwell also has many scenic walking and cycling routes.

Whatever you are interested in, one thing is for sure – you are spoilt for choice in Cromwell.

A great way to explore the area is by checking out the Dunstan Lakeside walks to get a feel of the town’s gold mining history.

Mt Difficulty Wines is one of the more popular wineries, located in Bannockburn between the Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago, with the picturesque views only half the reason to visit.

Clutha River has already proven popular with 500 people enjoying the trail on opening day.

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Now’s the time to make the trip, as the Lake Dunstan cycle and walking trail between Clyde and Cromwell has just recently opened up to the public.

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The roofing services we provide range from maintenance, repairs and replacements to the building and installation of brand-new roofs. Our hardworking team completes all jobs to a high standard and within the timeframe given, no matter how big or small the job. While also working on site with the team, Courtney, the director, keeps very detailed records of each job and always knows where things are at. With quotes issued before commencement of the work, progress invoicing throughout the jobs and a high level of communication, our clients are constantly in the loop and do not get any unpleasant surprises. Courtney himself lives in Cromwell with his two boys and is well established in the roofing industry.

Construction | Queenstown and the Southern Lakes

Red hot

The subdivision preaching affordability in the sizzling Queenstown property market By Claire Wright

Housing prices are hitting an all-time high up and down the country, according to recent data released by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ).

in income for local economies, according to Tourism Minister Stuart Nash – the housing market is red hot with no look of cooling down.

Median prices for residential property across New Zealand increased by 24.3 percent from $665,000 in March 2020 to $826,300 in March 2021 – this is another record high for the country.

REINZ states that 34.8 percent of houses sold in New Zealand of March this year have been sold for over a million dollars.

On top of that, 12 out of 16 regions reached record median prices, as well as 32 districts.

Otago as a whole has seen housing prices increase by 30.8 percent from $535,000 in March 2020 to $700,000 in March 2021. The Queenstown-Lakes District housing market specifically has reached record highs, breaking market trends around New Zealand, with a median house price of $1,185,000.

CoreLogic senior property economist, Kelvin Davidson said in a February market the physical supply shortage could be the strongest reason the market rebounded so quickly.

Despite Otago being one of the hardest hit The rebound in values around Queenstown regions by the COVID-19 pandemic – with centered on suburbs like Arthurs Point, Fernhill Queenstown taking a hit of 50 percent reduction and Kelvin Heights.

• • • • • • •

Site preparation Landscaping Drive ways Rock walls Section clearing Bulk cartage Drainage

The Queenstown-Lakes District housing market specifically has reached record highs, breaking market trends around New Zealand, with a median house price of $1,185,000.

Builders on board – Hanley’s Farm subdivision • Golden Homes • David Reid Homes • GJ Gardner Homes • Signature Homes

• Mike Greer Homes • Trident Homes • Jennian Homes • RNP Homes.

Local Owner/Operator covering Queenstown and the Southern Lakes region.

027 715 2228 Email max@clearcontracting.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 67

Construction | Queenstown and the Southern Lakes

That’s why the two major subdivisions, Jack’s Point and Hanley’s Farm, in Queenstown – positioned between Jack’s Point and Frankton – are getting scooped up so quickly.

It’s close to the Remarkables Primary School, Kingsview School and other childcare facilities. It’s within easy reach of Remarkables Park and the Five Mile shopping precinct.

One of the subdivisions, Hanley’s Farm, is located on a three-kilometre stretch of land that sits between Lake Wakatipu, Deer Park Heights and the Remarkables.

Bayleys Queenstown real estate agent, Jimmy Allen says RCL has not wavered from trying to provide affordable sections to people starting off in Queenstown. It’s something in the location. It's nice and sunny and warm.

Farm’s backyard, such as the breathtaking alpine

Some of Queenstown’s best views make up Hanley’s Farm’s backyard, such as the breathtaking alpine peaks of The Remarkables mountain range. Kelvin Heights to the north

between Hanley’s Farm and Frankton.

Over the past three to four years, the developers of Hanley’s Farm, RCL has been marketing the sections towards first and second homebuyers – mainly young couples looking to start a family, or who already have a family of their own.

Some of Queenstown’s best views make up Hanley’s peaks of The Remarkables mountain range. Kelvin Heights to the north provides a ‘gentle barrier’

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Construction | Queenstown and the Southern Lakes

provides a ‘gentle barrier’ between Hanley’s Farm and Frankton.

It shows what they're providing is what the market needs and why.”

When the soon-to-be-completed school at Hanley’s Farm, Te Kura Whakatipu o Kawarau, and Jack’s Point Village commercial development are finished, the area would become an almost self-sufficient township.

Jimmy says Bayleys Queenstown has sold around 750-800 properties so far for RCL and that 300 of those sales have been since late August.

This would mean that the community is looking to put down tight-knit roots, where everyone is looking out for their neighbours. “The demand is out there, obviously, for a product that's been well designed by RCL.

Approximately 400 houses in the Hanley’s Farm subdivision have been either completed or under construction.

Renters United, a renter’s advocacy group fighting for fairer rental control laws, states that over a third of New Zealanders are renting. Other subdivisions in the area under construction include the proposed 272-section Woolshed Road subdivision, which would be the fourth in the area, the proposed Coneburn special housing area (632 sections) and Jacks Point. Hanley’s Farm is projected at 1,750 sections once completed. CT

This subdivision, providing affordable sections in an almost too-hot-to-touch marketplace, comes at a time when homeownership in New Zealand is at its lowest point in 70 years.

Approximately 400 houses in the Hanley’s Farm subdivision have been either completed or under construction.

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Construction | News

Are our insulation requirements sufficient? The MBIE has sought for feedback on whether New Zealanders think the Building Code should be updated to require more insulation in new homes and buildings. MBIE’s proposals also suggest adopting new climate zones to better reflect the New Zealand environment. The request for feedback is part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE)’s annual consultation on the Building Code. Building Performance and Engineering manager, Dave Robson, says “In previous consultation

processes, we received strong feedback that changes should be made to the Building Code to ensure New Zealand’s homes and buildings are warmer, drier, healthier and more energy efficient. “We’ve listened, and we want to make changes to the Building Code that work for New Zealanders,” he says.

We are considering options for New Zealanders to bring our insulation requirements in line with other parts of the world.

“We are considering options for New Zealanders Other proposed changes include a new to bring our insulation requirements in line with verification method to ensure heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems other parts of the world. in commercial buildings are designed and “Before we make any changes, we want to installed to reduce the load on the national grid, hear what people think of the proposals – if and minor changes to weathertightness testing New Zealanders think insulation requirements methods for cladding on mid-rise buildings, and should change, and if so, how fast the changes geotechnical requirements. should be made, how far the changes should “In addition to the Building Code consultation, go, and how we might progressively phase in we’re also consulting on a new approach to any changes. how we ensure the set of standards that are referenced in the Building Code system remain “We’re also looking into additional climate up-to-date and fit-for-purpose. zones in the Building Code to better reflect the New Zealand environment, so insulation “These are important changes, so I encourage requirements would vary based on where a everyone interested to take the time to read building is located – for example, Queenstown through the proposals and let us know what you will no longer be in the same climate zone as think,” Dave says. Nelson, as clearly the weather these areas To find out more about the proposed experience is very different. changes or to submit feedback, “We’re also proposing changes that support the visit: www.mbie.govt.nz/have-your-say/ building-code-update-2021. CT increasing demand for higher density housing. This includes new requirements that will ensure people living in apartments and high-rise buildings have enough natural light,” Dave says.

STACK-iT SCAN TO SEE PRODUCT RANGE

STACK-iT is a growing business located in Rangiora just north of Christchurch. We have a history going back 10 years in shelving and storage and pride ourselves on delivering common sense storage solutions that are tailored to suit your needs and budget. From maximizing garage space to delivering full warehouse fitouts to completing ‘turn-key’ dry stores we endeavour to be New Zealand’s preferred ‘storage solutions provider’.

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Over the years the team at STACKiT have developed a great range of modular shelving and racking systems that can be configured to make the most of your space. A recent addition to the STACK-iT range is our innovative iRS dry store system. iRS cleverly integrates the racking system into the steel structure of a store. Traditionally people build a store using a steel structure clad with corrugated iron and then go to a racking supplier to come up with a plan for the racking layout. However, we are now offering a more efficient system, by utilizing the iRS system, businesses gain serious space advantages while making very

considerable savings on the project cost and time. STACK-iT carries a large stock holding of our standard products enabling delivery within a few days of order. Larger projects with longer lead times are often delivered straight from the port with the STACK-iT install team being on-site, on time, anywhere in the country. We regard New Zealand as one marketplace thereby dispelling any perceived location disadvantages for businesses in regional areas. Our team offers a free site visit, consultation and layout drawings to businesses looking to improve the storage layout of their factory or store. We have found that often our customers know what they want to achieve but are unaware of the products or system that can easily be tailored to fit the bill.

WE ARE DEDICATED TO THE SAFETY OF YOUR STAFF, CONTRACTORS AND THE PUBLIC. With more than 50 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.

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Construction | Roof Over Your Head

Weathering the winter Winter is here with Jack Frost ready to nip at our noses. In many ways hostility is associated with winter, especially by those who find it difficult to escape the bitter cold. The home should be a refuge, but leaky roofs put a damper on the cosy comforts of winter.

roof and deteriorate the affected parts of the roof prematurely.

Out of sight, out of mind – that goes for many parts of the home including the roof. Sometimes we don’t realise something’s wrong with the roof until winter has arrived and the damage is already done.

Many avoid engaging such professionals because they fear for the worse – in this case, roof replacement.

Roof repair and maintenance Regular roof cleaning is important to ensure your roof achieves its full lifespan. Roofing professionals can often draw up a quote which outlines all that needs to be done to get your roof to tip top shape. When conducting inspections, roofing professionals frequently find mould, rust, flaking paint and the like which can all lead to compounding issues. For example, neglecting to clean out gutters and spouting can cause rainwater to pool on your

For now, Canterburians should expect to install roof insulation with an R-value of 3.3 or higher in timber-framed homes.

Still, it’s better to know than not to know. Although roof replacement is a possibility, your roof might just need something as simple a quick clean to get back on track.

Ceiling insulation

In order for insulation to be most effective, you should check to be sure that there is no mould, moisture or gaps between batts of insulation. If you’re in the process of building a new home, perhaps consider using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs).

According to Building Performance, more heat is lost through the ceiling and roof in an uninsulated house than any other part of the structure.

SIPs are made up of two structural panels with insulating material between them. The combination provides structural framing and insulation all in one hit and can be applied to the roof and other areas of the home.

Currently, Canterbury is in climate zone three, the coldest of the climate zones; however, depending on the results of the consultation for the 2021 Building Code Update, this can change.

There are many ways to keep warm this winter, but be sure that you don’t overlook what’s overhead. Taking the right steps when maintaining an existing home or building a new one can ensure many warm winters to come.

SO MUCH MORE THAN ROOFING...

• • • •

On 28 May 2021 the consultation for the 2021 Building Code Update closed. There were a number of different topics on the table, one of them being redefining the climate zones. Currently, the entire South Island is included in climate zone three. Some argue that the three climate zones group regions together that shouldn’t be. One example given in one of the proposals is that Queenstown and Nelson are included in the same climate zone. With that in mind, climate zones can be further defined to better reflect regions’ distinct climates.

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Construction | Roof Over Your Head

Crazy for copper From the Statue of Liberty to your own home, copper makes a statement wherever it’s applied. Copper has a unique aesthetic appeal that we can appreciate on a large scale and in smaller doses like in gutters and spouting. The copper house in Cass Bay is participating in Open Christchurch 2021. It’s no wonder the home was featured on Grand Designs NZ, copper clads the entire home which ties the warmth of the home’s interior to its exterior.

home’s overall value – because of its natural chemical defence, which makes it extremely corrosion resistant. When installed and maintained properly, copper gutters can last the lifetime of a building.

However, if you are in the process of designing your dream home or revamping your current abode, you don’t have to cover your entire home in copper.

Durability

Something as simple as copper guttering can still draw the eye and bring a warmth that other materials can’t match.

The green coating that copper develops over time when exposed to the elements is called patina. Patina is a natural protective layer which makes copper extremely durable and resistant to corrosion damage and weathering. It also acts as a fungicide keeping moss and lichen growth at bay.

Not only will it make a strong design statement, but it is also guaranteed to stay functional and fashionable for years to come.

Benefits of copper gutters Value While the initial cost of copper gutters is higher than other options on the market, the longevity of the product is easily one of its most cost competitive qualities. The precious commodity is an investment that holds its value – and can even increase your

Unlike most other metal guttering systems, copper gutters will not require any painting or cleaning and other than the removal of debris.

If you’re not a fan of the look of patina, special coatings can be applied to interrupt and prevent the process. Eco-friendly The pure, natural material is another option to consider when ensuring that the stormwater run-off from your home is clean and safe for wildlife and local ecosystems.

Copper has been the material of choice for statement pieces throughout history and now Canterbury just might have one of its own. Previously featured on Grand Designs NZ, the copper house in Cass Bay was also featured in Open Christchurch’s 2021 programme.

Tickets to view the home sold out and it’s easy to see why. The exterior of the home glows as it’s entirely cladded in copper. Homeowners inspired by this multimillion-dollar build can incorporate copper accents to get the same desirable warmth in their own homes. CT

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Construction | Cohesive Construction

New era for Cohesive Construction Cohesive Construction has been going through a period of change with many new and exciting projects on the horizon. Cohesive Group are the South Island’s and the greater Waikato regions’ sole supplier of Wide Span Sheds, as well as specialising in steel framed construction. Cohesive Construction’s managing director Paul Lynch says the name change allows the company to better represent themselves as both suppliers of Wide Span’s range of preengineered buildings as well as designers and builders of custom commercial, industrial and residential projects. “Many of our clients come to us with an idea, and we pride ourselves on having the right local knowledge and connections to ensure our clients needs are met. From finding the right land, to designing, pricing and constructing custom fit for purpose building, we have the in-house capabilities to do it all.” Since the company’s name change, Cohesive Construction have also joined up with Wide Span Hamilton to service the South Auckland

and Waikato region, as well as design and build custom buildings throughout the North Island. The company provides pre-construction services from project feasibility reports and bulk and location studies through to fully quoted construction quotations and consented drawings. They utilise a full contingency of technical staff who ensure specifications and designs are fit for purpose, through to consent managers who ensure consent is issued expediently, so the headaches that can crop up along the way are managed.

“We can design and build anything and are not limited by being just concrete and steel builders, we also work with all materials and all building methods. This allows us to meet the needs of our clients and maximise efficiency” “The other key to the company’s success is our people,” Paul says. “We have a large in-house workforce of over 120 full-time, permanent staff from Bluff to

When it comes to the company’s success, Paul says adaptability and a great team are integral to the business. “We have built our reputation among our clients for completing complex and challenging projects in both a timely and economic manner, while allowing for flexibility with our clients changing needs.”

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Waikato, who are all committed to the ethos that quality means having your own people on the job. We employ our own designers, carpenters, project managers, quantity surveyors who all work cohesively to ensure all projects are managed in a professional manner.” Cohesive Construction’s more recent Greywacke Rd project is an example of the care and quality that goes into every design.

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Construction | Cohesive Construction

Construction | LOC Construction

Award winning craftsmanship LOC Construction have been in business for over 30 years and for good reason.

established are still just as relevant now as they were more than three decades ago. “We have built more than once for many of our clients and we believe this is testament to our quality workmanship and excellent collaboration with clients during their projects.”

Providing the highest quality of workmanship within required timeframes and specified Tom joined the business in 2011 and is now budgets are only some of what owners Les and running the sales and marketing while Les oversees operations and quality control. Tom O’Connell and their team are proud of.

The project was created with a vision of creating long-term investment for the site located close to the Christchurch International Airport. Cohesive Construction worked with the client on a number of building designs and feasibility options before settling on the current design. “It was important to maximise site coveragewhile allowing for the efficient use of the site. There was the potential for the building to be split into multiple tenancies and the aim in the design was to build units that could easily be customised for future tenants.” The warehouse portions of the tenancies were constructed using tilt panels allowing walls to be hard up against the boundary thus maximising rental income and carparking space. The warehouse was constructed using UB structural portals with each warehouse having an adjoining steel framed office with amenities.

A pedestrian canopy was added to the entranceways as well as a large, cantilevered canopy to the warehouses giving the building a point of difference to the other steel structures in the area. Cantilevering the canopies allows for freedom of movement beneath while providing shelter for trucks and vehicles moving in and out of the warehouses. Another recent local success story is the new Kaiapoi Self-Service Auto Wash building. The structure has a tunnel wash and 5 self serve bays that are 6m wide with a 4.45m clear entrance that allows both cars and trucks to use the auto wash. CT

For Les, it is hugely satisfying looking back over the many projects the company has been involved in and the relationships they have built with clients, suppliers and contractors.

“It is hugely important to have the right team and we do. We like to grow our team members through from apprenticeships, to qualified carpenter to foremen.

LOC Construction are proud to say they have been recognised with awards every year they have entered the Master Builders House of the Year.

“Over the years we have also built solid relationships with our quality sub-contractors and suppliers and this is hugely beneficial to our clients in terms of pricing and reliability of timing during a project.” CT

A particular standout project completed in 2019 was an architectural home in Sumner built on a challenging site with complex access. LOC Construction “The demolition had to be undertaken by hand 14 Waller Terrace with all materials carried up steep steps to the Christchurch 0800 562 266 roadside and all new materials manhandled info@locconstruction.co.nz down with larger items being helicoptered in.” www.locconstruction.co.nz The principles “work hard, work fair” the — Advertising Feature company started with when it was first

Over the years we have also built solid relationships with our quality sub-contractors and suppliers and this

Cohesive Group 836 Colombo Street, Christchurch 0800 264 374 www.cohesive-group.co.nz

is hugely beneficial to our clients in terms of pricing and reliability of timing during a project.

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Aluminium Joinery Solutions for Commercial, Architectural & Residential Projects. We are proud to be a supplier to their projects.

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• • • • •

Handrails – Steel and Stainless Balustrades Stairs & Landings Custom Steelwork Structural Steel – Light Industrial & Residential • Truck Decks – New Design & Upgrades

Proud to support Wide Span Sheds 03 347 8516 | info@lyndonengineering.co.nz | lyndonengineering.co.nz Canterbury & Westcoast

We’re electricians in Christchurch offering a range of services such as electrical upgrades, lighting upgrades, general maintenance, repairs and much more! 022 531 6325 | info@ncelectrical.co.nz | www.ncelectrical.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 75

Construction | Murray Hewitt Joinery

Superb joinery solutions Murray Hewitt has always had a passion for solid timber so it made sense for him to set up his own joinery shop.

“We have a small team here and it works quite well.” A proud achievement for the team was just recently being recognised with two awards at the Master Joiners Awards for Best Stairsand Best Kitchen $20,000 – 40,000.

Now more than 20 years later, the company has The judging criteria was based on use of steadily been growing, continuing to develop an material, workmanship and skill, complexity of excellent reputation within the industry. project and visual appeal along with use of materials From residential to commercial, kitchens and bathrooms to staircases and more, Murray specialises in joinery for the entire home, describing the company as a “one-stop-shop” for his clients.

The company’s joinery services include entry doors, exterior doors and windows, interior doors, stairs and hand rails, wardrobes and shelving, bathroom vanities, kitchens, laundries, lounge entertainment units and commercial and shopfitting.

“It’s great to see – it shows that the boys have got the passion to turn out good quality work and it is quite rewarding too.” The company prides themselves on providing a personal service, experience, quality workman ship and a skilled team of experienced craftsmen that take pride in what they do and ensure a quality product every time.

“Our high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail produces bespoke furniture which add values to your home. All pieces are created in our workshop in Christchurch. We use traditional joinery techniques to produce cabinetry which will last a lifetime. “We have an extensive joinery portfolio where solid timber plays an important part in our product range and is something we are passionate about.

“It’s having good guys that you can trust – we’ve got all joinery and cabinet makers here. It’s that eye for detail and quality.”

With a wealth of experience dealing with the public, the team at Murray Hewitt Joinery are happy to help find the best solution for any project. Bespoke Furniture It’s not about being the biggest for Murray – quality over quantity is what’s important.

“We work with a broad range of products so there will always be a wide range to choose from – there is quite simply no need to go anywhere else. CT Murray Hewitt Joinery PO Box 12023 Beckenham Christchurch (03) 343 0360 info@mhj.co.nz www.mhj.co.nz — Advertising Feature

It’s not about being the biggest for Murray – quality over quantity is what’s important.

Murray Hewitt Joinery create made-to-measure, hand-crafted furniture to the highest standard.

HAMPTONS Trusted suppliers to Murray Hewitt Joinery We’ll See You Right 151 Ferry Road, Linwood, Christchurch | Phone 03 374 3333 Email admin@hamptons.co.nz | hamptons.co.nz

Topping off your kitchen T

here is no doubt that kitchens are considered the heart of the home, which is why it’s important to talk to the experts before selecting your kitchen benchtop or bathroom vanity top surface. We understand that choosing the right benchtop is key to the overall look of your home. Whether you are a home owner or a trade

www.benchtopconcepts.co.nz 76 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

customer, we will provide a handcrafted surface for your renovation, new build, shop fit out, or large commercial jobs such as reception or counter tops, shelving, school or laboratory desks. We have an extensive range of benchtop surface solutions, including acrylic, engineered stone, and laminate. Whats more, our skilled staff will guide you through the process from material selection, quotation, manufacture and installation.

03 342 9218

398 Halswell Junction Road

Construction | Cement & Concrete

Concrete NZ Conference 2021 It is with great pleasure that Concrete NZ will host Conference 2021 in Rotorua, a city well-known for its geothermal wonders and Maori culture. Learned Society members (and non-members) are invited to attend the event across 14-16 October at the Energy Event Centre. The conference was last held in Rotorua in 2015 – and many industry players hold fond memories of the event! Rotorua is widely considered to be one of New Zealand’s top tourist destination – the city boasts a remarkable range of attractions and activities catering to diverse interests. This reputation is bolstered by its convenient central North Island location, offering easy transport links to visitors from around the country. Positioned at the edge of Lake Rotorua, the Energy Events Centre is located within the picturesque Government Gardens, offering extensive car parking, and being within easy walking distance of the shops, cafes and restaurants, hotels and spa facilities. The Events Centre is a versatile, multi-purpose venue that incorporates 10 separate spaces,

making it ideal for the conference format – particularly as it has extensive exhibitor space designed for around 300 stands (3m x 2.4m). There is also plenty of room for heavy vehicle displays and live demonstrations – all designed to maximise networking opportunities for exhibitors and delegates. As always, morning/afternoon teas, lunches and pre-dinner drinks will be held in the trade exhibitor areas ensuring exhibitors receive maximum exposure to delegates. Anyone interested in exhibiting should contact the Conference Secretary on 09 536 5410 or concrete@bluepacificevents.com. The conference retains the same format as previous years: beginning midday on Thursday 14 October, with a party night/welcome dinner that evening. The technical programme runs into Friday morning, followed by a range of social activities on Friday afternoon. The formal conference dinner and awards take place on Friday evening. The remainder of the technical programme is scheduled for the Saturday morning, with proceedings concluding at around 1:00pm.

Keynote speaker – Santiago Pujol Concrete NZ is extremely pleased to have secured a high-profile keynote speaker to head Conference 2021’s technical programme.

Santiago Pujol is professor of civil engineering at the University of Canterbury. Prior to moving to New Zealand, he was professor of civil engineering at the Lyles School of Civil Engineering, Purdue University. Professor Pujol’s experience includes earthquake engineering, evaluation and strengthening of existing structures, response of reinforced concrete to impulsive loads and earthquake demands, instrumentation and testing of structures, as well as failure investigations.

Santiago Pujol Professor of civil engineering at the University of Canterbury www.canterbury.ac.nz

He is a fellow of the American Concrete Institute (ACI) and a member of ACI committees 445 (Torsion and Shear), 314 (Simplified Design), 133 (Disaster Reconnaissance), and 318R (High Strength Reinforcement).

Image copyright University of Canterbury.

He is also a member of the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI), associate editor of Earthquake Spectra, as well as the founder of www.datacenterhub.org – a website funded by the US National Science Foundation and dedicated to the systematic collection of research data.

Concrete NZ Conference 2021 (09) 536 5410 concrete@bluepacificevents.com www.theconcreteconference.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Professor Pujol received the Chester Paul Siess Award for Excellence in Structural Research from ACI, the Educational Award from the Architectural Institute of Japan, and the Walter L. Huber Civil Engineering Research Prize from American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). CT

• Driveways • Earthquake Repairs • New Home Specialists • Patios & Paths tel: 0508 873 7483 email: sales@affordableconcrete.co.nz www.affordableconcrete.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 77

Real Estate | Property Management

What you need to know about changes to the Residential Tenancies Act RTA Changes On 11 February 2021, the second phase of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020 came into effect, reflecting the fact that more people are renting than ever before. The final changes, regarding ending a tenancy due to family violence or physical assault, will take effect by 11 August 2021 at the latest.

Some of the key changes include: 90-day notice Landlords and property managers can no longer give a no-cause 90-day notice to terminate a tenancy. To end a tenancy based on anti-social behaviour, the tenant must have been issued three written notices for anti-social behaviour within a 90-day period and an application must be made to the Tenancy Tribunal with evidence of this behaviour. There are a number of other valid reasons for terminating a periodic tenancy after 11 February 2021, which include but are not limited to: the tenant has been at least five working days late with their rent payments on three separate occasions within a 90-day period; the property is going on the market or has been sold with vacant possession; or extensive alterations, refurbishments, repairs or redevelopment of the premises are to be carried

out; or the landlord requires the premises as a principal place of residence for themselves or a family member. A tenant can still terminate a periodic tenancy by giving at least 28 days’ notice (up from the previous 21 days). Additionally, all requests to assign a tenancy (or pass on the lease to another tenant) must be considered, and the landlord cannot unreasonably decline. If the tenancy agreement was entered into prior to 11 February 2021 and prohibits assigning another tenant, this agreement will still stand.

Fixed-term to Periodic Tenancies Fixed-term tenancy agreements now convert to periodic tenancies unless a landlord gives notice using the reasons listed above or in the RTA guidelines for periodic tenancies; a tenant gives notice for any reason at least 28 days before the end of the tenancy; or both parties agree to extend, renew, or end the fixed term tenancy.

protect against earthquake risk or to make a property child safe.

Minor changes to the property

These minor changes must be remediated to substantially the same condition when a tenant leaves the premises at the end of a tenancy.

If the landlord consents to the changes, they can impose reasonable conditions, for example moving the shelf slightly to avoid wiring behind the wall. Landlords must respond to requests in writing within 21 days.

Tenants now also have more freedom in making minor changes to the premises, as landlords must not unreasonably withhold consent for any Other changes minor renovations or alterations. Other changes that came into effect on Minor changes could include; shelving, baby 11 February 2021 were fibre broadband gates, picture hooks, curtains or window installation, ending rental bidding, annual coverings, securing furniture or appliances to rental increases, privacy and access to

Northwood’s Real Estate Specialist. Monty is consistently performing to the highest standard and consistently striving for success which allows him to develop a great understanding of all things real estate throughout Christchurch City and the wider areas.

Call Monty Parti 021 223 6999 0800 4 MONTY monty@mikepero.com

northwood.mikepero.com 78 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

justice, assignment of a tenancy, landlord records, enforcement of the RTA and changes in the Tenancy Tribunal’s jurisdiction and administrative powers. CT For a full summary of changes, check out the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and Tenancy Services Summary of Changes Factsheet: www.tenancy.govt.nz/assets/ Uploads/files/residential-tenancies-amendmentact-2020-factsheet.pdf. The next deadline for the Healthy Homes Standards is 1 July 2021 – for more information on these changes, visit: www.tenancy.govt.nz/about-tenancy-services/ news/deadline-extended-for-healthy-homesstandards-compliance-statement.

— Advertising Feature

Real Estate | Property Management

At A Glance | Robbie Dunbar Upholsterers

What to look for in a real estate agent

Why bin your furniture?

Selling your home can be a daunting process, so our advice is to start by talking to family, friends and people from your local community groups as to whether they have used an agent locally and had a positive experience and found someone they can recommend.

Originally from Scotland, Ronnie of Robbie Dunbar Upholsterers (RDU) personally boasts more than 40 years of upholstery experience, with a highly qualified team alongside him in their workshop in Burnside, Christchurch.

An agent’s reputation is one of the key ways they get referrals and repeat business. It’s good to look for agents who can demonstrate knowledge of your local area and community, as this will help them with the marketing and explaining the benefits of your home, such as the location, to potential purchasers. Local agents also tend to have a network of potential buyers that they have been working with, or that they have access to through colleagues – ensuring your property is best positioned and marketed to potential buyers. Things to look for when choosing an agent:

Communicates in person first A great agent will pick up the phone and call someone rather than emailing or texting first.

They want to connect and keep a rapport going. They are also good listeners. They aim to minimise any misinterpretations that can arise via text or email (when tone can come across wrong, spell check does something random etc). While technology can help, being good at the fundamentals is essential.

Is an effective communicator They get back to people when they say they will. Vendors are usually extremely worried about selling their house so when an open home is held they expect the salesperson to get back to them straight away with how many people came, feedback, next steps, etc. Look for someone who goes the extra mile with communications to all parties.

Displays local knowledge They can demonstrate knowledge of the local area and community, ideally with a network of potential buyers. This can help ensure your property is best positioned and marketed to potential buyers.

Experience and ambition A great agent can talk to you about similar properties they’ve worked with, or situations they’ve faced and how they’ve fixed any issues that have arisen. Look for someone who talks in facts and specifics instead of generic sentences. Whilst lengthy experience can be advantageous, it is important not to discount someone new to the industry as their ambition to succeed could prove even more beneficial.

Reuse, recycle, reupholster!

RDU handles a wide variety of work from up and down the country – from smaller, individual jobs such as headboards of any shape and size, automotive/marine furnishings, sofas, dining chairs, arm chairs and eclectic pieces of furniture that need a facelift, to large size commercial jobs such as hotels, restaurants and property developments. Projects include: • • • • • • • • •

Matakauri Lodge, Queenstown Blanket Bay, Glenorchy Millbrook Resort, Arrowtown 180 Couches for The Rees Hotel, Queenstown 360 Chairs for Lakeside, Wanaka TSS Earnslaw on Lake Wakatipu Various Bars, Restuarants in Queenstown, Wanaka etc 200+ Chairs for Dementia Care NZ Work for interior designers in Qt and CHC.

Between them, Ronnie and the team have a wide variety of skills and there is very little that they can’t do!

Ronnie has over 30 years’ experience in the trade, starting as an apprentice upholsterer and learning the traditional skills of his craft from the beginning. RDU is concerned with all aspects of upholstery and have an excellent reputation amongst their loyal customer base; you can find examples of RDU’s upholstery around the world. Many multi-national businesses and traditional, well-established country estates used RDU exclusively over the years to meet their demanding upholstery requirements. The excellent reputation of RDU is dependent on a high level of customer satisfaction, attention to detail and reliability. The company is expert in all types of upholstery work from antique and traditional to contemporary furnishings in both commercial and domestic settings. Choose from a wide variety of fabrics and materials, and benefit from a collection and delivery service. Are you an individual or business owner in Canterbury with furniture that needs some love? Know someone that does? Then give RDU a call on 021 069 1011 to arrange a quotation today – the cost may surprise you. CT Robbie Dunbar Upholsterers 11a Sheffield Crescent Burnside Christchurch 8053 (03) 441 1339 rdu315@xtra.co.nz www.rdu-upholsterers.com — Advertising Feature

RDU has expertise across a diverse range of products but our specialties lie in: • Upholstered furniture • Re-upholstering and re-covering • Antique upholstery • Bespoke upholstery • Upholstered headboards.

Classical style armchair. Image taken by Nuttaphong Kanchanachaya.

Positive testimonials

Harcourts City Christchurch

James Dwyer Licensed Sales Consultant Licensed REAA 2008

Mobile: 021 047 1023 Email: james.dwyer@harcourts.co.nz 98 Moorhouse Ave, Christchurch www.harcourts.co.nz

There is nothing more telling than hearing directly from someone who has worked with this agent before, whether that is someone you know personally that has worked with them, or if the agent will let you ring “Mr & Mrs Smith from 123 Green Street” and talk to you about their experience of dealing with that agent. We often recommend meeting a few agents before you choose who to work with.

SEATON’s French Polishing SPECIALISTS IN ANTIQUE & MODERN FURNITURE

Quality Craftsmanship for over 25 years

We also recommend visiting open homes they are hosting to understand how they present their vendor’s home.

Stripping

Domestic & Commercial

Lacquering

Insurance

This will help you get more of a feel for how they work to get the best for your property.

Hand Polishing

Free Quotes

You can also look online and see how agents are using social media or digital marketing to increase coverage for the properties they are selling, and therefore see what you could expect for your property. CT ArticleS by Wendy Alexander, acting chief executive at the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ). — Advertising Feature

Also Repair & Upholstery Services Available Phone 348 3334

Mobile 027 558 1477 Mike

7 Pope Street Riccarton (Behind Horncastle Homes)

www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 79

At Home | Design

Making your home a haven

It has been over a year since the onset of the pandemic. Even with travel bubbles popping up, many of us are fatigued with the long-term effects of the pandemic and we’re reminded of the importance of the design and space of the home.

Ideally, the home is a haven – yet how many of us came out of lockdown last year with a serious case of cabin fever, just itching to get out? COVID-19 and recent world events are bucking previously predicted trends in interior design. These times leave us wanting a remedy for our anxiety.

windows can provide natural light, warmth and great views all in the comfort of your home. In addition to windows, incorporating natureinspired prints and colour palettes into your living space is an easy way to bring nature in. Popular colours include soft blues and earth tones, accented with jewel tones, bright colours and metallics. Another way to bring the outside in is using natural materials such as unfinished woods, cane and dried flowers. These materials add texture and interest to a space and can be applied in countless ways; anywhere from exposed, timber beams to rattan cane accessories. Texture is important when creating a mindful living space because it involves the sense of touch, an important sense that keeps us present and in the moment.

Empowering local economies and consumers

These times leave us wanting a remedy for our anxiety.

With the uneasiness this time brings, many rely on nature as a natural remedy for anxiety. Bringing elements of nature into the home creates a relaxing living environment.

Reasonably, anxiety ensued when COVID-19 disrupted our day-to-day lives. To regain that feeling of control, consumers are considering the effects of their purchases on their local communities.

Putting Kiwi ingenuity to practice, some New Zealanders who lost their jobs due to Covid are making the most of circumstances. Dusting off old skills and talents, Kiwis are producing artisanal home décor like pet portraits, sculptures and more.

If you’re in the position to renovate or build, windows are an effective way of bringing the outside in. When positioned correctly, large

With world travel still well restricted, now is the time to appreciate all that New Zealand has to offer in regards to home goods.

Some of the added benefits to buying local and opting for handmade goods is that you often end up with something unique and one of a kind.

Bringing the outside in

Also, you can often collaborate with the artisan directly to create something that coordinates with your existing space and reflects your personality. Although some of these trends were popular before the pandemic, they now have an even greater foothold in the industry. CT

RENAISSANCE DECORATORS LTD For a free quote on all your • • • • •

Interior Painting Exterior Painting Plastering Papering Specialized paint effect requirements

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 81

Manufacturing | MHM Automation – Stainless Division

Small team, big results Originally established as the Mercer company in 1884, Christchurch, the company has expanded and evolved in ways which are reflected in its various names over the years including its current name, MHM Automation. ‘MHM’ stands for its three operating entities: Mercer Stainless, H&C and Milmeq. You’ll see Mercer Stainless products throughout New Zealand ranging from plant equipment used in the food processing sector to custom benching utilised in commercial and residential buildings. To demonstrate the company’s unity amongst its many branches, Mercer Stainless Custom Benching is now MHM. Its name might have changed but the people behind the name are just as eager to get high-end architectural benching out to their clients. Often working alongside joiners, designers, and architects, MHM Benching sales and production co-ordinator Diane Burton says that even with homes and benchtops increasing in size and complexity, there’s no end to what the team of eight can do.

includes one project MHM completed with Ashburton Joinery/Mastercraft Kitchens Ashburton. Diane says, “That benchtop we made was quite an engineering feat because it had to be unsupported at one end. “We had lots of hidden reinforcing inside the benchtop so that it could be unsupported. It was beautiful, it looked amazing in the finished kitchen.” MHM has plenty of experience and benchtops to fit all sorts of spaces and needs. Along with its construction and configuration, the team can further customise your benchtop with different finishes and polishing specifications. In addition to benchtops, MHM also manufactures rangehood flues, drawer fronts, kick plates, bathroom equipment and custommade sink bowls. Custom sink bowls can be top mounted, under mounted or fully welded into the bench. While stainless steel benching and fabrication are what people predominately know about Mercer Stainless, the rebranding to MHM Automation better reflects the company. MHM Automation is a worldwide exporter of automated equipment such as carton erecting, vacuum packaging, de-boxing, robotic solutions, and automating large scale chilling and freezing. CT

“We’ve only got a small team of people here in Christchurch doing all the benchtops. They do a really good job and any job that comes their way, they make it to a really high standard.

MHM Automation – Stainless Division 53 Lunns Road, Middleton Christchurch 0800 BENCHING (0800 236 244) “They take a lot of pride in their work. It could be benching@mercers.co.nz going into a shed and they still make it like it's www.mercerstainless.com/category/customgoing into a million-dollar house.” benching Although the team pours itself into every job, one project that sticks out to Diane in particular

Ashburton Joinery - Smith Job High Res: Kitchen designed and manufactured by Mastercraft Kitchens Ashburton.

Suppliers of top quality kitchens, stairs and household joinery to Christchurch builders, developers and home owners.

mks.co.nz | 03 365 3988

— Advertising Feature

They take a lot of pride in their work. It could be going into a shed and they still make it like it's going into a million-dollar house. - MHM Benching sales and production co-ordinator Diane Burton.

Showroom and Factory: 345 Brougham Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023

Manufacturers of premium designed kitchens, timber windows, doors & joinery

Design Service • Bathrooms & Vanities • Staircases • Timber Windows & Doors Wall Units, Wardrobes & Entertainment Centres • Commercial Joinery

Phone. 03 3 888 111 | Email. quotes@batesjoinery.co.nz | www.batesjoinery.co.nz 82 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 82

Transport | Nelson Marlborough Traffic Management

A proven history of hard work It’s said that ‘necessity is the mother of invention’, and to a large extent, that’s how Nelson Marlborough Traffic Management (NM Traffic) began. While exploring career and business options, Richmond resident Lorraine Klenner was chatting to a family member about the need for ready, reliable traffic management tailored specifically for forestry crews working close to the public roads, cycleways and other public spaces. In 2013, Lorraine started STMS Forestry Services with a small casual crew and two or three ‘bread and butter’ jobs, usually in remote logging areas. Right from the start, Lorraine was wholeheartedly dedicated to working with excellence and integrity while delivering cost effective and competitive traffic management solutions to local businesses in Nelson and Marlborough. It wasn’t long before all-important word of mouth referrals inspired by happy customers and self-promotion saw the demand for safe and compliant traffic management grow and, in 2017, a decision was made to change the company name to Nelson Marlborough Traffic Management.

This better reflected the extensive range of services now on offer to an ever-expanding client base including local councils, arborists, civil works contractors, farmers, forestry crews and anyone else who has work to do on or near a street, road or highway. NM Traffic is proudly involved in each project from conception to completion ranging from designing and obtaining approval for sitespecific Temporary Management Plans (TMPs) to physically setting up and controlling the worksite until the client’s job is successfully completed and they no longer require traffic management. Along with an excellent (green) health and safety rating through SiteWise New Zealand, comprehensive hazard reporting and risk assessments, NM Traffic employs a qualified, in-house trainer to ensure all staff trained to the highest standard. NM Traffic also regularly runs training courses for external companies seeking to upskill their employees with new qualifications or refresher training as well. NM Traffic are proud be locals serving locals and have grown into a company that has the ability to safely manage multiple jobs throughout the Nelson-Marlborough regions simultaneously. They believe their motto “we love doing our job really well, which makes your job safer for both your workers and the public” speaks volumes to who they are and what they believe.

Lorraine Klenner, NM Traffic

As the saying goes, “If a job’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well”. Try us and see – we’ll prove that it’s right. Nelson Marlborough Traffic Management PO Box 3111 Richmond admin@nmtraffic.nz www.nmtraffic.nz

NM Traffic also regularly runs training courses for external companies seeking to upskill their employees

— Advertising Feature

Traffic Management Specialists

Providing council approved traffic management for a wide range of clients including civil work contractors, forestry operations and local trades work and events near any street, road or highway across Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough.

TMP Corridor Access Request | Sign & Equipment Hire | Event Management | NZTA TC & L1STMS Training | Mentoring

P: 03 928 0475 M: 027 3190 956 E: admin@nmtraffic.nz www.nmtraffic.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 83

Transport | Global Bus Ventures

A blazing success

NZ’s first hydrogen fuel cell bus made by NZ’s last complete vehicle manufacturer

THE FIBREGLASS PRODUCT SPECIALISTS DESIGN MANUFACTURE REPAIR

Global Bus Ventures, New Zealand’s last complete vehicle manufacturer, has developed New Zealand’s first hydrogen fuel cell bus in partnership with Auckland Transport (AT). The first of its kind is a huge step towards Auckland Transport’s goal is to be emissions free by 2030. This three-axle bus will be used to trial operating costs compared to diesel and electric buses. The two-year trial route will travel from Botany to Britomart via Panmure. It fits 43 seated adults and 31 standing adults AT commissioned the hydrogen fuel cell bus for $1.175 million. "The technology has only really become available in the last two years,” Global Bus Ventures CEO, Tim Duncan says. “Prior to that, it wasn't really an option. It was a game changer because the electric vehicles carry a huge amount of weight. Before, electric vehicles took a long time to be charged and even had to be parked in a specific position and location to be charged.

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“With the hydrogen, it operates like a conventional vehicle. You just take it to the refueling station. You can refuel it in about 10 minutes, and then carry on with your bus circuit to do whatever you need to do. It can also be parked in the depot in any position.

At that time, a battery supplier approached them and significantly dropped their price. This allowed Global Bus Ventures’ electric vehicle to be commercially viable again.

In the past, the New Zealand government and council were keen on supporting New Zealandmade manufacturing, especially as buying local creates huge gains for our communities.

This is when Global Bus Ventures caught wind that their main competitor lowered their prices by $100,000 to further compete.

Unfortunately, it seems the deciding factor now is the capital cost of the product, even if it’s a better product that will last for years to come.

The Chinese company CRRC is Global Bus Venture’s main competitor – Auckland Transport currently uses 12 of the CRRC’s electric buses for CityLink despite allegations of the company utilising slave labour.

Global Bus Ventures goes beyond just manufacturing and building its buses, though. The company also does the electrical design, the management software and more in house, employing around 100 people in Christchurch. CEO Tim Duncan reckons it indirectly creates The Greater Wellington Regional Council is currently investigating whether or not 98 electric 300 jobs through the local supply chain. buses it is about to lease were made using Mike says, “It makes us a complete system slave labour. supplier, so the operators are buying everything Global Bus Ventures declined to comment on its competitor’s labour practices, stating that its business model focused on the high quality of its own vehicles and the standard of its own work.

“Hydrogen has a very fast refueling time and provides more flexibility. You can travel a much greater distance without refueling as well, which is significant for bigger buses and longer trips in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington.”

Global Bus Ventures executive vice president, Mike Parker says, “We produce a product that is designed for New Zealand conditions, specifically around the weights of the vehicles.

When the hydrogen fuel cell bus was threequarters built, Covid hit New Zealand and the country was plunged into Level 4 Lockdown. Global Bus Ventures was considered a nonessential service, so the factory had to shut down completely.

“The ones we’re building in our factory now will be the first ones in New Zealand that will be legally on the road weight-wise without exemptions. It means they’re compliant with New Zealand’s laws and provides better efficiency, and range, than our competitors.”

from us. Therefore, we can stand behind it and adapt it to New Zealand conditions, which will help them long term. “We don’t buy a chassis from overseas and put a body on it. We do it all ourselves, so we can stand behind the whole product. “It upskills the industry substantially to adapt to the vehicles on the road. “We've got technicians in house. With the hydrogen [fuel cell bus], we had to use gasfitters and all sorts of technology in the bus. It's helping to grow the industry strength and knowledge base around the new technologies as well. “We see that as a model to support the market long term.”

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0800 77 77 44 altus.co.nz

As the capital costs for electric and diesel has gotten closer and closer, the sustainable vehicle manufacturing industry has become more of a viable business model. The downsides of fossil fuels are becoming higher and higher, and we can’t afford to wait any longer. Statistics NZ states that emissions from transport were up 2.3 percent from 2017 and up 89.7 percent from 1990. With a highly skilled complete manufacturer focused on sustainability and jobs for people in New Zealand, Global Bus Ventures has no plans of going anywhere anytime soon. Currently, they are working on an electric vehicle fleet of four for a contract in Christchurch. CT

Global Bus Ventures (NZ) Ltd PO Box 104 Rolleston 7643 New Zealand (03) 347 2167 info@globalbusventures.co.nz www.globalbusventures.co.nz — Advertising Feature

84 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Transport | Premium Tyres & Auto

Transport | Global Bus Ventures

Premium care for your car

Hydrogen has a very fast refueling time and provides more flexibility. You can travel a much greater distance without refueling as well, which is significant for bigger buses and longer trips in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. - Global Bus Ventures CEO, Tim Duncan

Premium Tyres & Auto offer a convenient, one-stop-shop, which director Don Fearon says is appreciated by their customers.

He says another aspect of the service appreciated by their clients is they offer quality products at competitive prices with no hidden costs.

Premium Tyres & Autos services include:

With two Christchurch branches, in Linwood and Bromley, they are conveniently located for ease of access. “People can drive in, leave their car, get their warrant done, any repairs and servicing, then drive away. It’s very convenient to have it all at one place, and people really appreciate that, especially the tradies. “It means that people don’t have to waste time going elsewhere for repairs, and then spend even more time returning for a recheck,” Don says.

Congratulations to Global Bus for NZ’s first hydrogen fuel cell bus

The team at Premium Tyres & Auto provide a full service for all makes and models of cars, four-wheel drives, vans and light trucks.

Suppliers of thermoformed parts

They also carry an extensive range of new and used tyres for cars, vans, light trucks and four-wheel drives and provide a free fitting and balancing service on all the tyres they sell. Head Office; 7 William Lewis Drive, Sockburn, 8042, Christchurch 0800 426 292 | www.awardplastics.co.nz

Don says their extensive range means they can fit most vehicles but if they don’t have it in stock they’ll quickly source it.

• WOF and WOF repairs • Full vehicle servicing • Full range of new and used tyres • Wheel balancing and alignment • Fitting mag wheels • Brakes • CV joints • Shock absorbers and suspension repairs • Batteries. Premium Tyres & Auto has all the latest vehicle diagnostic technology in their fully-equipped workshop, and fully trained and qualified staff. Don says along with having everything you would expect in a modern, well-equipped auto servicing shop, what makes Premium Tyres & Autos stand out is the effort they make to do their best for their customers. CT Premium Tyres & Autos 222 Linwood Avenue Linwood (03) 3805020 027 766 7354 office.premiumtyres@xtra.co.nz www.premiumtyres.co.nz — Advertising Feature

O NS W T TIO CA O L 2 LOCATIONS: 245 DYERS ROAD, BROMLEY, CHRISTCHURCH

Premium Tyres & Auto

(Corner of Dyers Road & Wickham Street, Christchurch)

Manufacturer & Stockist of • • • • • • • • • •

Aluminium Extrusions Free Machining Rod Aluminium Sheet Tooling Plate Scaffolding Security Screens & Hardware Fasteners & Hardware Construction Fasteners Aluminium Castings Sealants & Adhesives

• • • • • • • • • •

Ladders Window louvres Aluminium Pallets Aluminium Ultra Clad Fences & Gates Coloured Sign Panel Aluminium Weld Wire Balustrades Private Dies Hand Tools & Equipment

Proud Suppliers to Global Bus Ventures, Ullrich Aluminium wish them all the very best for the future. 03 366 7939 | 9 William Lewis Drive, Sockburn, Christchurch | www.ullrich-aluminium.co.nz

and 222 LINWOOD AVE CHRISTCHURCH

WOFS • BRAKES • SERVICING • REPAIRS • WHEEL ALIGNMENTS New & secondhand tyres at great prices

10% DISCOUNT off retail price when you mention this ad Call Don – Phone (03) 380 5020 or (03) 384 2080 Mobile: 027 7667 354 • Email: premiumtyres@xtra.co.nz

www.facebook.com/PremiumTyresAuto | www.premiumtyres.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz June/July 2021 | 85

Transport | Waltham Mechanical

Auto repair experts Choosing the right mechanic is a tough decision every vehicle owner has to make at one point or another, whether it’s for regular maintenance or major work. Sometimes the deciding factor includes the people behind the counter and in the garage working on your vehicle.

been a massive learning curve and an evolving process. We’re always looking to improve, always looking to change as motor vehicles do.”

The personnel at Waltham Mechanical make the difference. They do their best to make customers feel comfortable enough to bring their vehicles in for quotes and repairs by prioritising transparency.

Hayden likes to point out the importance of regularly servicing your vehicle. Unlike the average vehicle owner, mechanics often have the vantage point since they are able to put vehicles on hoists.

Batteries, for example, could let you down with the change of seasons. Going from warm weather to the cold weather may create a greater demand of the battery and if the battery is ageing or weak this may lead to a failure to start the vehicle. - Waltham Mechanical owner Hayden Spatcher

The team makes sure that customers are aware With that in mind, regular servicing allows of everything that is happening with their vehicle Waltham Mechanical’s team to forecast issues and why. before they come up to ensure that your vehicle Another one of Waltham Mechanical’s strengths is running as efficiently as possible. is that the team has a vast range of knowledge. The shop regularly services a variety of different vehicles and does not specialise in any one brand.

Change of season tips As we head into winter, Hayden and his team want to make sure drivers are as safe as possible when on the road.

The age of a vehicle makes no difference to the team as they are accustomed to working on old and new vehicles including hybrid and fully electric vehicles.

Differences in temperature wear on various parts of vehicles so some things to check with change of seasons include tyres, wiper blades, brakes, and batteries.

Waltham Mechanical owner Hayden Spatcher says, “We do a lot of jobs that a lot of workshops nowadays do not do. We do big and little jobs and everything in between.

“Batteries, for example, could let you down with the change of seasons. Going from warm weather to the cold weather may create a greater demand of the battery and if the battery is ageing or weak this may lead to a failure to start the vehicle.

“Waltham Mechanical has been around for a long time. I’ve owned it since 2004 and it’s

“Our routine service schedule here at Waltham Mechanical includes a battery test and print out,” says Hayden. Of course, the team at Waltham Mechanical can tell you what you need to prepare for autumn the next time you bring your vehicle in to be serviced or repaired. CT Waltham Mechanical 102 Coleridge Street Sydenham, Christchurch (03) 365 5169 walmech@xtra.co.nz www.walthammechanical.co.nz

Waltham Mechanical services and repairs a wide range of vehicles. Services you’ll find at the repair shop include: • WOF inspections and repairs • Full automotive servicing • Warranty service and repairs • Computer scanning and diagnostics • Engine overhauls • Courtesy vehicles available by request.

— Advertising Feature

WALTHAM MECHANICAL’S TEAM OF FULLY QUALIFIED MECHANICS FOLLOW A PRECISE VEHICLE SERVICING CHECKLIST TO ENSURE EACH SERVICE IS AS THOROUGH AS THE LAST. Waltham Mechanical has over 15 years’ experience servicing the vehicles of Christchurch. The dedicated mechanics at Waltham are passionate about cars and they love their work, which means you will always get qualified service, realistic quotes and accurate advice along with excellent customer service.

Phone: 03 365 5169 / Fax: 03 365 5169 Cellphone: Hayden - 021 319 113 www.walthammechanical.co.nz 86 | June/July 2021 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Parkhouse Truck Wash We are situated in a great location near Mainfreight, Daily Freight & Owens in Sockburn, Christchurch. As a business that specialises in truck and trailer washing, we know that the industry has some very good options to choose from in Christchurch. That’s why we are primarily focused on what we can do for you – the customer. Our goal is to see you happy when you drive away in your truck! We also offer a FREE Wash after 10 Washes per Vehicle as a Loyalty Programme. Your business is appreciated and we recognise that you should be rewarded for choosing to use us. OUR PRODUCTS We changed to Nerta Soap

during March. Dave (Wash Pad Foreman) has been in his role for six years and he just couldn’t believe the difference with the new soap! We know that our Iteco Washing Systems machine, working together with the Nerta Soap, creates an exceptional wash and finish. Nerta has been life changing in our daily work here and we are very proud to now be the Christchurch Distributor for Nerta working closely with Powerwash Ltd. ABOUT US Lee Young purchased and rebranded the truck wash last December.

Lee worked for the Kotzikas Family at United Fisheries for the last 32 years and says his time there taught him about how to treat customers and staff. Although Lee is new in business, he says he is learning as he goes. “But I have strong beliefs that guide how I do business. “Do a great job, charge an honest price, treat customers with respect and build a good relationship with them. For the seven months since starting this has been my strength.” Parkhouse Truck Wash doesn’t only wash trucks: “If you drive it, we can wash it”.

And we can wash tip trucks and trailers. Booking is essential as we wash a lot of large truck and trailers, and we don’t have room on the street for parking – so we work with a booking system – you only need to call Lee two or three hours ahead to plan a wash. Please don’t hesitate to call for a price depending on what it is you need washed. OUR SERVICES Wash Services We wash trucks and trailers, vans, buses, boats and more. Detailing Services

Large vans, camper vans, buses are things we often wash.

We provide new truck predelivery and used truck detailing services.

We can also wash small excavators (on trailers) and Scissor Lifts, boats etc. can also be washed on trailers.

De Tar Services De tar services are also available – call us for a quote.

ATL GROUP: NATIONWIDE EXPERTS Asbestos Management, Demolition and Remediation LEADERS IN THE FIELD ATL Group has been a leading expert in asbestos remediation since it was established in 1982. From humble beginnings, ATL group has become the undisputed market leader in asbestos management and consulting services. Our business has challenged the status quo and continues to thrive for excellence in who we are and how we can serve our customers, colleagues and other stakeholders. At ATL, our teams know that their job is vital to keeping your family, community and country safe. Our professional approach is built on a culture of industry best practice and compliance

ASBESTOS SPECIALISTS

and our strategic partnerships allow us the ability to provide full end-to-end solutions, which is why we are known as the experts. ATL management staff and teams come from asbestos, construction and engineering backgrounds that allow us to develop solutions for our customers that consider their wider needs.

REMEDIATION SPECIALISTS

The Dunedin City Council required ATL to perform a thorough decontamination of the attic in the iconic Dunedin railway station. The station remained fully operational as a major public building so our team worked nights above sensitive areas. Every inch of the attic has been thoroughly cleaned under A Class conditions, the insulation replaced and the area handed back to the council without any issues.

OTAGO PORT FRYATT STREET SHEDS Our workers dismantled the asbestos-ridden Fryatt Street sheds as part of a $3 million Port Otago development operation. ATL was responsible for all of the ‘Super 6’ asbestos removal (6000m2 total), demolition and scaffolding, as well as site protection, access and traffic management.

We specialise in managing complex, high risk projects, redefining what “BEST PRACTICE” means in our industry so you can be rest assured that we’ve got you covered for your next project, big or small.

DEMOLITION SPECIALISTS

A-CLASS DECONTAMINATION WORKS AT THE ICONIC DUNEDIN RAILWAY STATION

With the seaward side of the structure eroded away, ATL was required to design a site specific demolition methodology to minimise slab loading.

At ATL Group our responsive and professional team are focused on keeping you, your team and the public safe.

With over 36 years in the business of Asbestos Removal and Demolition, we are the industry experts with a focus on keeping New Zealanders safe where they LIVE, LEARN, WORK and PLAY. CHOOSE THE NZDAA ‘CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR’ FOR YOUR NEXT PROJECT.

We can keep your organisation 100% operational while we carry out asbestos remediation works.

With our head office located in Auckland and with branches all over New Zealand, we’ve got you covered!

GET IN TOUCH WITH THE EXPERTS TODAY!

ATL GROUP IS PROUDLY NEW ZEALAND OWNED AND OPERATED.