Canterbury Today Magazine Issue 163

Issue 163 | 2021

LIANNE'S LEGACY ways to get more sales

Lianne Dalziel reflects on three eventful and somewhat tumultuous terms

How to sell more in today’s business environment

Compulsory staff vaccinations The question of employers’ rights

Bouncing back How business sectors are faring during Delta

The power of immunisation The higher the vaccination rate, the faster our recovery

Creating a culture of performance

How working from home became a business mainstay

Practices that will change your workplace for the better

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Cover Story

Publisher's note

Viewpoints Pages 6-7

This issue of Canterbury Today features Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel who, in her final term in office, reflects on three eventful and somewhat tumultuous terms.

6 The power of immunisation The higher the vaccination rate, the faster our economic recovery will be

6

18 A new light on Paralympians

46 Wests Cordials

Destinations

We look at how business sectors are faring during Delta, the question of employers’ rights to make it compulsory for employees to be vaccinated, how to sell more in today’s business environment, plus practices that will change your workplace for the better and how working from home became a business mainstay.

Throughout the magazine, features provide insights into successful companies and organisations, and the people working in them, and as always, we thank all our columnists for their expertise, along with the views, opinions and predictions of all those who contributed, to help you manage the risks your face each and every day.

JonathonTaylor

Editor

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

4 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Compulsory staff vaccinations The question of employers’ rights to make it compulsory for all or some employees to be vaccinated

6 The rules of engagement are changing B2B sales and marketing is changing 7 Back to speed after lockdown You can’t control everything, but you can control how you react when a crisis strikes 7

How to attract and retain talent during tough times Why maintaining a strong employee brand matters

7 Events diary Find out what’s on near you

Management Pages 9-28 9 Life and style Items worthy of desire 10 Bouncing back How business sectors are faring during the Delta outbreak 11 The easy hack to optimise productivity How working from home became a business mainstay 12 Lianne’s legacy Lianne Dalziel reflects on three eventful and somewhat tumultuous terms 15 Green investing Considering environmental conditions in stock market portfolios 16 Your place, your space The Square’s grand old post office gets a second life

Manufacturing

17 Convention Centre opening postponed

41 Southern Engineering Solutions

Delta takes its toll on the local conference scene

44 Real Milk Timaru

With 19 medals, 11 of them gold, Sophie Pascoe’s place in our sporting hall of fame is assured

19 Five ways to get more sales

How to sell more in today’s business environment

48 Discovering the West Coast 63 Southern adventures Construction

21 Creating a culture of performance development

64 Tukanga Developments’ processes for success

66 Keeping nature at bay

Practices that will change your workplace for the better

Transport

22 Machine learning and the future of construction

Understanding what can be achieved using data science

68 Why sustainable transport matters Focus On

23 And the winner is…

72 Keeping everyone safe on-site

73 Nelson’s affordable housing solution

The 2021 Westpac Champion Business Awards finalists

28 A one-off residence pathway

74 Keeping North Canterbury roads safer

76 Selwyn Sounds pegged to be the biggest yet

Giving businesses and migrants more clarity to plan for the future

78 Barkers of Geraldine partners up with MetroEXP

In Business Pages 30-98

80 Injecting new life into Timaru’s arts district

Spotlight On 30 Silky Otter Cinemas offer more than just a big screen

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32 Find the perfect present at Barrington Gifts 33 Fern Law’s legal advice and support Property 34 Understanding the Residential Tenancies Act 37 Subdividing – a step by step guide 38 What to look for in a real estate agent

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Management | Viewpoints

Leeann Watson

John Shingleton

Assia Salikhova

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

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

Founder of Smarketing Lab www.smarketinglab.co.nz

The power of immunisation

Compulsory staff vaccinations

The rules of engagement are changing

Otautahi Christchurch really comes alive in spring and summer. With the warmer days come the promise of outdoor concerts, BBQs and catching up with friends and whanau, as well as the full calendar of local events such as the New Zealand Agricultural Show, and Addington and Riccarton Race Weeks.

I find it interesting how most commentators have sanitised the vaccination at work debate by referring to mandated vaccination, instead of compulsory vaccination, which is what this is really all about.

While change is “in the air”, it’s often challenging to quantify what exactly has changed.

Let’s take a closer look at just one area relevant to most people in business. The area of business engagement; how the first contact is made, what happens next, how relationships evolve at an early stage.

The question of employers’ rights to make it compulsory for all or some employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 is, despite Since we all know that first impressions count, getting this right the government’s recent announcements, is still unclear for those can have a long-lasting positive effect on any business.

So it was incredibly disappointing that the latter two highlights of employers for whom vaccine certification is not compulsory. the region’s spring calendar joined Sail GP and the South Island Traditionally we know that appearance matters and that’s why Moon Festival as the latest to be impacted by Covid restrictions. From what I have read, the government is favouring a risk shops look after their store fronts, businesses in commercial management approach. premises look after their street appearance, and having a goodAs well as impacting our ability to enjoy these events, the looking business card is considered a sign of professionalism.

Employers are thus expected to treat Covid as a health and economic ripples of cancelling, postponing or modifying these safety issue and manage the risk of infection posed to employees Just the other day, some companies asked us to re-design events to fit public health restrictions is significant. and customers. their business card, when they were asking for a rebrand.

In fact, ChristchurchNZ’s estimate of the visitor spend attributed That’s because the power of first impression for them is with a to the three events which traditionally make up New Zealand Cup In addition to the employment law requirements to always business card. treat employees fairly and reasonably and in good faith, the and Show Week (Riccarton Park, Addington Cup Week and the New Zealand Agricultural Show) is $4,379,405 and 22,275 visitor government is looking at introducing legislation that will facilitate Remember a time when a business card was the only place you the process of employers undertaking a health and safety nights (based upon those events being run assuming the whole could check the spelling of someone’s name? assessment of their workforce, should an employer wish to make country was at Level 1).

These times are long gone and many people no longer feel it compulsory for employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

The ongoing restrictions have also significantly impacted local the need for a business card, because everything can be The specific risk being managed is the risk of infection from businesses. That’s why we joined with other organisations in found online, on their own website, social media, and in their COVID-19.

Canterbury for the recent 90forCanterbury campaign, which is email signature. a vaccine initiative to reach 90 percent vaccination for eligible At the date of writing this, we do not know the detail of the Leaving aside the tactile pleasure and long-lasting impression Cantabrians by Labour Weekend, including targeted activity over proposed legislation, and the government is rightly consulting from receiving a business card, I would like to invite you to explore the country’s ‘Super Saturday’ day. with the Human Rights Commission and the Attorney General what is now commonly used instead. Especially in situations when on how such legislation may impact on human rights and the This was a great way to increase awareness and increase our we might not even be able to hand out a business card in person.

Bill of Rights. regional vaccination rate.

Here is a quick summary of how rules of engagement have My personal view is that the legislation should introduce a Canterbury had the highest vaccination rates in the country on changed and what can we do about it, so that we continue to Super Saturday which is something we should all be really proud process that allows all employers to categorise their employees portray our professional experience: as needing to be vaccinated against COVID-19 if the degree of of – but we need to make sure we keep the momentum going.

Business cards might be gone for good, yet your contact details risk of infection that arises from personal contact with other We need to be creative in the way that we continue to engage still need to be available. A modern way of providing your details people is high. The greater the risk of infection the greater the with communities to provide the information and support they with a company message is to have it all in your email signature. assessment that an employee must be vaccinated as a condition need to make vaccinations accessible for those areas that have Tip: when you have it as an image, some people might never see of employment. lower rates than others. this so make sure the key information is still in text format So, an employee who works at reception and meets and greets It is also positive to see businesses playing their part by Recommendations and word of mouth are no longer considered customers and other members of the public, would be identified encouraging their workers and creatively coming up with ways to enough because people expect they will be able to ‘learn more’ to be more at risk of infection than an employee working in a call support their workforce. about the company and people behind it online. The new trend centre with no personal contact with the public or work mates. in 2021 is to ‘check out’ a person on LinkedIn. Note, not on your We also saw businesses providing support on Super Saturday Overarching this of course is legal uncertainty and the risk of website, not on Facebook (which is considered more personal), through giveaways, kai and a festive environment to make it an litigation. So, as I write this article, we are in a legal limbo as the but on LinkedIn, because there is a perception of greater engaging community event. government has indicated it will not implement this legislation professionalism. until the so-called traffic light system kicks in.

It is now that we need to double our efforts and focus, to apply Tip: go visit your LinkedIn profile and look at it through the prism the same encouragement across the whole community and to I am of the view this is unsatisfactory. Employers should not have of a person who has never met you. Would they see you as the ensure each first dose is followed up by a second. to wait any longer. professional you are, or would it be a sad realisation that your profile is not saying enough about who you are and what can you We all have a role to play in getting vaccinated and supporting If it was up to me, I would introduce legislation under urgency do for them? others to do so too, so we can choose the freedom of social amending the Employment Relations Act 2000 by creating a interaction, gatherings, sports and cultural events, a buoyant protection against personal grievances if an employer, after Why are people interested in your LinkedIn profile? Same reason economy, international travel and a better quality of life – just in having conducted a fair and reasonable health and safety people love reading magazines, for the insight. time for summer. assessment of its workforce, decides to require all or some of its Nowadays people still want to buy from people they know and employees to be fully vaccinated at all times as a condition My challenge to all of you is to work together to ensure that trust. They explore your profile and your signature, with the of employment.

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Management | Viewpoints

Martz Witty

Katherine Swan

Witz Endz Limited martz@witzendz.com

Country director Ranstad www.randstad.co.nz

Back to speed after lockdown

How to attract and retain talent during tough times

The trick in getting back to speed after a lockdown is to keep momentum going during a lockdown.

While we are now moving beyond the days of being locked down, we still face slowdowns.

Yes, the doors might be closed allowing limited access to suppliers or customers, but it’s the perfect time to hone up goals, set in place plans, get that Business Continuity Plan (BCP) in order, rather than sitting on the couch watching TV and worrying.

Take back some control. BCPs aren’t just about coping in a pandemic or an earthquake, they cover off all manner of crisis that may happen in your business including unexpected key person death or permanent disability.

You can’t control everything but you can control how you react with crisis when they strike. And they do and they still will.

Coming out of lockdown there is a tendency to be a “bull at a gate”. Don’t. Take it gradually (just as you would resuming exercise after a prolonged absence).

Together with being gradual, also be regular. Build a little each day. Spend some time each day working “on” the business rather than just “in” it. It’s a great time to implement this and it will stand you in great stead going forward. Proper planning prevents poor performance.

After a prolonged closure or reduced activity things come to light that you may need to replace or even possibly remove altogether.

Check out the plant and equipment. It costs money to buy and money to keep. If it is superfluous to running the business then it’s time to let it go; convert it into cash for better use in the business.

Alternatively, maybe you’ve been alerted to a more efficient way of doing aspects of the business through automation. Time to do a detailed cost and benefit analysis and plan for change.

The title of this opinion piece is back to speed after lockdown. I want to suggest “speed” may not be exactly what you want. With speed comes an inability to always see things clearly that are going on in business. Speed can be exhilarating, but as per the road safety warnings – speed kills.

It’s great to be busy. That’s true. Are you absolutely sure that what you are doing are the right things?

There’s a common misconception in business that we need more activity. I categorically disagree except where you know that the activity is profitable. Activity is often glorified more than profitability.

We need to be doing the right things and then ensuring we are doing things right. Effectiveness first, then efficiency.

The best way to get back to normal after lockdown is to take time to do a top to bottom business shakeup review.

Review time, people, processes, systems, products, services, advisors; if they aren’t working for you then it’s time for change.

An ongoing issue for the construction sector, that has been amplified by COVID-19, is the shortage of skilled workers.

In July, Construction Strategy Group’s executive director, Julien Leys, said the building and construction sector needs 50,000 workers to meet the current pipeline of growth for projects across residential, commercial and infrastructure.

In fact, in a talent short job market, it’s more important than ever before for construction firms to put their best foot forward, if they want to find the good candidates.

Our Randstad 2021 Employer Brand Research investigated what employees find attractive when choosing a new role.

For the first time in 10 years, it seems Kiwis are no longer motivated by salary and benefits alone.

In 2021, work/life balance emerged as the most important driver when considering a new role, followed by salary and benefits, job security and a pleasant work environment.

In an industry where talent is in short supply, this shift in mindset is important to consider when looking at creating a competitive package that will attract candidates to your business.

In a competitive job market, a good salary and benefits will only take you so far. If businesses want to attract the right people to their business, they must understand what employees are looking for and ensure their employee brand is delivering on this.

Encouragingly, our employer brand research also found that employees are more loyal to their employer today than they were a year ago, likely due to the instability of 2020 and the empathy that many New Zealand businesses showed towards their employees during this time.

However, with borders remaining closed for the foreseeable future, the candidate market is becoming even more competitive due to the shortage of skilled workers across all industries.

To succeed in a talent squeezed market, managers need to be clear on what their ‘next normal’ looks like for their workers and this must include addressing work/life balance including flexible working needs for all employees.

As part of work/life balance, employers in the construction sector can also take the opportunity to consider how they are addressing mental health and wellbeing for workers, a critical issue for the sector.

Issues like flatlining productivity, unclear regulations, fragmented planning and uncertain pipelines of work are all detrimental to maintaining workplace wellbeing. It is helpful to be able to discuss some of these issues in the recruitment process, so that employees know how they will be supported through times of uncertainty.

Transparency, authenticity and having a clear message helps candidates to better understand how they could fit into the organisation and builds trust from the outset.

Events diary Saturday, November 27th

The vegan night Makete The Christchurch vegan society is putting on a night vegan market at the Philipstown community hub. This market will display the absolute best of local plant-based foods and goods as well as important information regarding awareness of environmental, animal welfare and health benefits of veganism.

Bring your friends and family from 5-8pm to experience all that this wonderful market has to offer.

For more information, go to: www.veganchristchurch.org.nz/events/vegan-night-makete.

Thursday, December 2nd

Lady Hawke - Blue Smoke Kiwi powerhouse Lady Hawke is back having dropped her fourth solo studio album, Time Flies on October 8th. Her new album incorporates personal subject matter alongside her infamous electronic catchy beat, The Blue Smoke at the tannery always sets the tone for a memorable night, do not miss out on this leg of her Time Flies tour!

For more information and to buy tickets, go to: www.ladyhawkemusic.com.

Monday, December 6th

All about gardening seminar An event for avid gardeners and horticulture followers. You will mingle at the Botanical Gardens with likeminded people while listening to a fascinating speaker selected by the gardening society, the event ending with an educational session. Tickets are $5 for members and students, $10 for the general public.

Door sales only.

For more information, go to: www.chsgardens.co.nz/all-about-gardening.

January 14th - January 30th 2022

World Buskers festival A staple in Christchurch’s summer event line-up, The Bread and Circus World Buskers Festival is back for 2022 and better than ever. The variety of exceptional shows continues to expand, filled with acts from all over the globe. Something for everyone, be sure to mark the dates in your calendar.

For more information and any relevant ticketing information, go to: www.breadandcircus.co.nz/christchurch.

February 12th- February 14th 2022

Halswell Pottery Group 50th anniversary exhibition The Halswell pottery group is celebrating their 50th anniversary and invites all pottery enthusiasts to come commemorate fifty years. The event spans over two days and will include pottery demonstrations, decorating your own piece of pottery and the opportunity to buy ceramics. All ages welcome and car parking is available.

For more information, go to: www.ccc.govt.nz/news-andevents/whats-on/event/halswell-pottery-group-50thanniversary-exhibition.

Helping you make the right choices in business.

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It’s all about using and respecting the whole animal, from top to toe. Beckenham butchery is so popular when it comes to nose-to-tail meat – whether it’s a succulent eye fillet steak or bones for broth, we have you covered.

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Like us on

Management | Lifestyles

Lifestyles

1.

By Natasha Parrant

2.

1. iPhone 13 Pro The iPhone 13 Pro has a smooth and super responsive display.

It has a massive camera, is more powerful, ultrafast, and has a longer-lasting battery life with up to 22 hours of video playback. The bigger the camera upgrade, the bigger the photo possibilities. The iPhone 13 Pro has three times optical zoom with a cinematic mode and exceptional graphics. Using this cinematic mode allows the user to shoot professionally, such as with a sharper focus or shallow depth of field.

RRP: $1,799 - $1,999 www.warehousestationery.co.nz

2. Grove Studio Arch Mirror The Grove Studio Arch Mirror is a nice glass mirror with a black metal frame that can go alongside anything in the house. It’s an extra-large full-length mirror custom-designed to Loft’s specifications. It’ll stand out and look aesthetic in any room.

The mirror can either be mounted on the wall or placed on the floor while leaning on the wall. The mirror is 170 cm tall and 65 cm wide.

RRP: $599 www.loftfurniture.co.nz

3.

3. Sutton three-seat sofa The Sutton three-seater is a funky green sofa that features a mid-century form and classic fabric upholstery. This material makes the sofa very comfortable to sit on. It also has foam cushions on springs and webbing on a lacquered rubberwood base, making it cosy and perfect for any environment. If green isn’t the right match, the sofa also comes in a sand colour.

RRP: $2,399 www.nood.co.nz

4. JBL T760 Wireless On-Ear Noise-Cancelling Headphones The black JBL T760 wireless, noise-canceling headphones suit someone who prefers having over-the-ear, comfortable, loud and lightweight headphones. It blocks out background noise and can connect with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.

The Tune 760NC has two hours of extra battery life after charging it for five minutes. Enjoy the pure bass sound, 35-hour battery life, hands-free calls, voice control, google fast pair, and a manufacturer warranty of 12 months.

4.

RRP: $199.95 www.noelleeming.co.nz

5. LG 75” NANO75 4K Smart TV The black Nano flat-screen smart TV offers a lot of variety for customers. The TV has high-quality pictures, bright colours, and amazing detail. Buying the LG NanoCell TV can only be ordered online. The stunning 4K display gives customers an excellent cinematic experience and a world of entertainment as it has Netflix, Apple TV, Disney +, Amazon Prime, Twitch, Game Optimiser, and Sports Alert. The TV also comes with Amazon Alexa, Apple Airplay 2, Apple HomeKit, Home Dashboard, and a Magic Remote.

RRP: $3,399 www.harveynorman.co.nz

5.

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 | 9

Management | Covid

Bouncing back New Zealand associations respond to the government’s plan to save struggling businesses

By Natasha Parrant

New Zealand’s tourism, retail and hospitality businesses are trying to move forward from yet another lockdown.

The question is how are New Zealand companies recovering from the Delta outbreak?

New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern set out a plan in August to reconnect New Zealanders to the world. The plan outlines: • Speeding up the vaccine rollout so everyone would be eligible to book by September 1 • Move to six weeks between doses to ensure more Kiwis are vaccinated (at least partly) • Gradually reopen the borders with a self-isolation pilot this year and set up new testing and vaccine checking systems at the border

Tourism

Retail

Hospitality

Tourism Industry Aotearoa [TIA] chief executive, Chris Roberts, says protecting the health of New Zealanders needs to be prioritised, but the latest lockdown has majorly affected tourism operators.

Retail NZ chief executive Greg Harford says it’s been difficult for hospitality and retail businesses since the second lockdown.

Hospitality New Zealand Canterbury branch president, Peter Morrison, says most businesses are doing their best to recover from another lockdown.

“Most businesses now accept our borders are unlikely to reopen this year and probably not until well into 2022. So many tourism operators are having to make hard decisions about their future, knowing that domestic travel over the summer holidays will not be enough to replace the lost international visitors.”

• Move to new individual risk-based border settings to establish low, medium, and high-risk pathways into New Zealand from the first quarter of 2022

Chris says many operators have had to downsize or put their business on hold. The COVID-19 Tourism Industry Survey conducted in August [www.tia.org.nz/resources-andtools/insight/covid-19-tourism-industrysurvey-results], shows almost five percent of respondents won’t be operating in six months.

• Continue to keep the borders closed for as long as required, wear masks, scan QR codes, contact tracing, and vaccinate to keep people safe and the economy open.

However, 60 percent of businesses believed they’ll be operating in five years. This result indicates many businesses may close temporarily rather than permanently, and this was before the second lockdown.

Jacinda’s plan was introduced before the Delta outbreak, which caused the country to move to level 4 at 11:59 PM on August 17.

TIA wants the government to extend the current wage subsidy, even when Auckland is at level 2, as many tourism businesses have been suffering a 40 percent decline in revenue during levels 4, 3 and 2.

Since the second lockdown, various associations speak out on behalf of affected businesses, responding to the different stages of levels, and reflect back on the government’s plan.

10 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

TIA suggests tourism operators get vaccinated and encourage colleagues, whanau, and the wider community to get vaccinated.

Level 3 has had almost as much of an impact on retail businesses as level 4 because “it takes time to recover”.

“Physical stores need to remain closed and online sales or click and collect don’t generate the same level of sales. At level 2, customers are still nervous about getting out and about.

There is a strong need for additional government support to help businesses survive the current situation.”

Greg says the best thing for retail right now is to get back to operating normally, make sure most of the nation is fully vaccinated, customers feel confident shopping again, and money is circulating.

A key issue for New Zealand is the borders remain closed. Greg says businesspeople can’t travel overseas to meet with suppliers, undertake quality assurance, order goods, and there’s a shortage of workers.

While public health is important it’s also important for the government to facilitate business travel. “This means a more liberal approach to the border and access to MIQ facilities for business travellers if required.”

He says during COVID-19, “We didn’t have a great summer because there were no overseas tourists.”

Since both lockdowns, many hospitality workers are in debt. “Some of them I don’t think will survive.”

Peter says hospitality workers need more government support because “this sector is the worst one affected”.

He says operators need the resurgence support payment weekly. After lockdown, some consumers want to shop more than anything.

“In hospitality, we’ve got restricted levels.”

Some employees can’t physically distance with dining tables in the way, despite the extended gathering.

Auckland is the country’s biggest market for hospitality, so businesses are majorly affected since Aucklanders are not allowed to travel freely yet.

Peter encourages the wider community to support hospitality businesses. He also says the government could have encouraged more people to get vaccinated sooner.

The general public started getting vaccinated in July but even in October, only 40 percent of people are fully vaccinated.

“As soon as that happens, we’ll be able to open up our borders I would think.” CT

Management | Working Life

The easy hack to optimise productivity

By Megan Dunn

Isn’t it funny that before the emergence of Covid in 2020, the concept of working from home wasn’t really widely practiced or wholeheartedly embraced.

Fast forward a little over a year and the phenomenon of working from home is extremely normal, extremely popular and gaining drastic momentum as perhaps ‘the better way’ to work - in all kinds of different aspects.

Initially, the concept of working from home seemed difficult and complicated with countless hoops to jump through. Although we were all kept inside, the old motto remained - business never sleeps.

So, as we all adjusted to the new normal, our working lives followed suit. Companies quickly began the transition of organising for their employees to work from home.

This entailed ensuring all technologies and software were downloaded, discussing any new policies and basically organizing and implementing any action to make this new situation accessible and feasible for both company and employee.

The notion has begun to dissolve the traditional idea of the 9-5 office set up that millions of people globally have become completely accustomed to.

Let’s not forget to thank Zoom for making meetings of any sort possible. It became the hottest, most used app during the pandemic, helping people stay virtually connected, whether that be for business or personal purposes.

Working from home offers a very comfortable alternative that the working population has certainly warmed to.

How productivity would be affected by this massive change was questioned early.

COVID-19 has transformed life as we know it in every conceivable way - and working life is no exception to this rule.

It was assumed that the home atmosphere would wreak havoc on perceived work ethic.

With the kitchen, couch and bed so close, slacking off seemed easier than ever before.

Back in 2020, when Covid first reared its ugly head, a major concern for many heading into lockdowns (with no date of when restrictions would be lifted) was, what the hell is going to happen with my job?

Can I still work? How would this be possible?

The questions were endless and vast, uncertainty seemed to be the only certain in these scary and foreign times.

Except the general trend of what actually took place was a happier, more content employee.

People were able to do things completely unachievable in the fixed office routine. They could wear their pajama bottoms whilst in a Zoom meeting with their boss and enhance their time management by walking their dog on lunchbreak.

What really resonated with people was it gave control back into the running of their daily lives, while still completing all work duties as required, all boxes being ticked.

respond appropriately to the growing desires of their employees.

Neovia Advisory Ltd, which specialises in financial services in Christchurch, is doing just that.

They give employees the option of working from home one day a week post pandemic.

The reason of which stemmed from their wellness initiative; if people wanted to work a day from home for their own personal reasons, then the company would indefinitely support this.

This initiative embodies the flexible culture the company has whilst trying to live by their family focus value.

The possibilities here seemed endless with personal management, and accountability taking precedence.

What really resonated with people was it gave control back into the running of their daily lives, while still completing all work duties as required, all boxes being ticked.

The results from a 2020 University of Otago study found that out of 2,595 New Zealanders working from home during lockdown, majority of people were evenly or more productive (73 percent), and that interestingly, a great deal of people would like to continue to work from home at least part of the time post lockdown (89 percent).

This study serves as a crystal-clear reflection of the evolving perspective on the work environment from the modern Kiwi professional and almost as a call to action for employers to

Neovia’ s Senior business advisor, Vera Richards, says of her restyled work structure, “I love it as there’s no travel time, the time I work during the day is flexible, there are no parking costs and I get a lot done as there are fewer interruptions.

“My work life balance has significantly improved.”

The pandemic was a learning curb on an entirely elevated level, it seems like absolute stupidity to leave insights discovered in that time behind.

Like all things, we should use crucial lessons from an experience to develop core initiatives to implement into our lives to improve it and fulfil any newly discovered preferences.

Working from home supports an enhanced view on work relations which increases productivity, meaning work from home definitely isn’t something to be slept on. CT www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 11

Cover Story | Lianne Dalziel

LIANNE’S LEGACY

By Rosie Duff

When Lianne Dalziel first entered the Civic Offices as Christchurch’s 46th Mayor in 2013, she initially intended to ‘fix things and leave’.

Having previously served 23 years in Parliament, and equipped with a Bachelor of Laws, there was no better suited candidate for the odyssey that lay ahead.

Sitting in her office some eight years later, Lianne reflects on her three eventful and somewhat tumultuous terms, and answers what changed.

12 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Cover Story | Lianne Dalziel Taking office in the midst of the rebuild, with the weight of the fractured city’s expectations resting upon her shoulders, Lianne certainly had her work cut out for her.

A decade later, and a colourful, accessible city with walking, cycling, and green spaces is evidently reflected in what’s being built today.

“

The earthquakes brought us together and recognised the significance of coming together to support ourselves.

– Lianne Dalziel

Yet, when I ask how she feels about shifting the city from response to recovery, the mayor claims it’s not something she takes credit for.

”

In regards to how she personally feels about her accomplishments, Lianne’s answer is a bit of a mixed bag.

“I take my hat off to them… they are the true heroes of the recovery because they were prepared to back the city’s future,” she explains.

“Have you ever heard of imposter syndrome?” she asks. I grew up in one of those eras where you’re never quite good enough to do what you do. So, the thing is, you never quite feel like you’ve done enough,” the Mayor admits.

Though, Lianne makes no mention of how these fantastic developments wouldn’t have been possible, had the council’s accreditation rights for new building consents not been restored under her leadership back in 2014.

However, the parting legacy Lianne says she – – would like to leave, is a future for the Otakaro Avon River corridor, which she envisions to be a sanctuary.

Perhaps one of the most “awesome” additions to the revitalised cityscape, Lianne says she does however, want to take a moment of glory – for Turanga, the Central City Library.

“I want it to model co-governance, which actually means mana whenua and the city, and its community coming together as equals in a co-governance arrangement.

“I remember going into libraries when I was a kid – I went to libraries all the time,” the mayor recalls.

– “The reason Turanga is awesome is because it was imagined by the people who were going to be using it,” she explains, while also proudly listing off the facility’s unique features.

When I ask her to elaborate on any texts that have influenced her leadership, she answers without a second’s hesitation. “‘If Mayors Ruled the Word: Dysfunctional Nations, Rising Cities’ – I always quote it in speeches. Whenever I put it up on a screen, everyone laughs.

“But I just wonder with the government talking about the future for local government, whether one of the things that they should be reflecting on is whether we’ve got the system right.

“Is central government doing too much that local government would be better at doing, in terms of building civic trust and local relationships?”

While Lianne puts forth a compelling argument, she jokingly clarifies that she will not be leading the metropolitan revolution any time soon.

“I just think it’s a really incredible conversation to have – it’s not because I want to rule the world, or think that New Zealand mayors do!”

Over her three terms overseeing the city, Lianne has played a significant role in pioneering new approaches for community development.

Among one of her proudest accomplishments lies the establishment of The Christchurch Foundation, she tells me.

For context, Lianne explains that when she was first made privy to the cost-sharing agreement that the previous council had signed with the then government, it included some “heroic assumptions” in regards to the amount of capital that would be raised by the private sector.

Although there were provisions in the agreement for philanthropy, the Canterbury Recovery Authority raised all but “zero”, Lianne explains.

Lianne points towards the ‘Christchurch Invitation’, an initiative by members of the local Muslim community where people are invited to spread peace, share kai, reconnect and reflect, as a step in the right direction.

“Just simple messages that have come from the roots of their faith, that they now want to share with the rest of the city and the world… it’s amazing.”

“The private sector – all of those developers, they could’ve spent their money anywhere, but they reinvested in the city.

“I always say to kids that reading is the best way to power your imagination which is the best way to become a creative and innovative thinker.

“One of the challenges that comes from that, is how do you address things like underlying racism and a history of white supremacy in the city?” she asks.

“So, when the government told us that they were handing it back to us to find this money we established a place-base foundation with a very broad framework.

“Since then, they’ve paid back, not just financially, but also in terms of building passion for different things.”

“The reason I say that, is because probably more than anything else that I’ve invested my time in over the past eight years has been building strong working relationships, which I hope survive my time as the mayor,” she explains.

“

There was just this overwhelming sense of disbelief that this could not

Lianne expresses she also hopes to see more of our natural and cultural assets being celebrated in the future.

Lianne makes special mention of the Tui Corridor project – a partnership between Meridian Energy and The Christchurch Foundation, which centres around attracting the Tui back to the city.

have happened here, and I

“It’s extending the boundaries of what philanthropic giving can mean for a city and I’m very proud of that,” she says.

community reacted… it was

Lianne explains that by tackling issues from a different angle, you can often attract more investment and yield better results.

sense of compassion that

Such is the case with the Otautahi community housing trust, which she explains was about creating a model where the housing was only one element of the wraparound support available for tenants.

vicious act of hatred.

“Having a work broker work directly with them is something that could be handled through a housing trust that could attract government funding in a way that the council couldn’t.”

point where I have never ever

When I ask if she’s ever considered throwing in the towel, the mayor responds with a roar of laughter.

felt prouder to be the mayor

“Every day!” Lianne chuckles.

of Christchurch.

“Every day since I’ve announced I’m not running again… no, you know I don’t want to not fulfil my commitment, so that’s just a joke,” she clarifies.

Lianne says that these projects, along with the council’s focus on developing community partnerships, are accomplishments she’s extremely proud of.

“The earthquakes brought us together and recognised the significance of coming together to support ourselves.

“I think that such partnerships – like the Aranui Community Trust, are the building blocks for the future… rather than the council doing projects for communities,” she explains.

held that for so long.

But the way the Muslim incredible; the incredible was the response to such a So, although it was a time of challenge, it was also a

– Lianne Dalziel

”

“There was just this overwhelming sense of disbelief that this could not have happened here, and I held that for so long.”

Lianne pauses for a second to compose herself, before continuing.

This September marks two and a half years since March 15, 2019, when a pair of Christchurch mosques were fatefully attacked in a violent act of terror.

“But the way the Muslim community reacted… it was incredible; the incredible sense of compassion that was the response to such a vicious act of hatred.

A source of immense tribulation for those affected and beyond, it’s something the mayor says she still struggles to forgive.

“So, although it was a time of challenge, it was also a point where I have never ever felt prouder to be the mayor of Christchurch.

“One of the most significant things that I’ve learned, is the significance of what was taken – from Ngai Tahu.

“The earthquakes changed the city forever, and I really would like to see a lot more understanding around what is now being put into our built environment.

“Some of the traditional stories that belong to this place – a long time before the Europeans came, are now found woven into our landscape, and I would like more people to know about that.

“This is a place where people can connect with the environment, and with each other – so that’s my hope for Christchurch,” she says.

“There have been things that have been particularly challenging, and I do get upset when I feel like my actions have been misinterpreted.

“But look, for every single negative thing that might’ve been said about me anywhere, I have somebody walking up to me in the street – an absolute stranger, who thanks me for serving the city.

“There is so much about the role that I love, that I’ve got no regrets about taking on the challenge.

“I’ve met some amazing people and I’ve made some really close personal friends.

“I’m incredibly grateful for all of that,” she concludes with a smile. CT www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 13

Focus On | Aden Motel

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A picturesque setting for sure, there’s an unmatched sense of calm in Te Anau that simply can’t be found in the hustle and bustle of the urban centres.

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Indeed, with a 12-unit, ground-floor complex consisting of seven studio units, three, one-bedroom units and two, two-bedroom units – Aden Motel offers a range of quality accommodation options with all the facilities a guest could possibly ask for.

The rooms are decorated with a Kiwiana theme, and are well-equipped with kitchen facilities, comfortable lounge areas and bathroom facilities, as well as free wireless internet in all rooms.

Plus, the Aden Motel also now offer a three-bedroom cottage, which sleeps up to eight people right next to the Motel called Heron’s Cottage.

Ample parking with off street boat parking, guest laundry, playground, car and luggage storage and a BBQ for those lovely summer nights is also available.

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horse trekking, jet-boating, and many more activities Te Anau offers.

Whether you have come to enjoy the spectacular Milford or Doubtful Sounds or to hike the Milford, Kepler, Routeburn or Hollyford tracks, Irene and David know you will leave with fond memories.

With easy access to the nearby Fiordland National Park, it provides a convenient base camp to those who wish to catch a glimpse of the glacier-carved fiord of Doubtful and Milford sounds, or explore the many other magnificent sights and sounds that the area has on offer.

With super friendly staff, superb services and great prices, Aden Motel ticks all the boxes for location, attractions and services and is the ideal place to stay while you’re experiencing this magical part of New Zealand.

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Management | Green Buisness

Green investing

By Rosie Duff

On December 12, 2015, 195 nations convened in Paris to sign a universal agreement to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions in the hopes of limiting the future impact of global warming.

According to the most recent annual report by the Responsible Investment Association Australasia, the responsible investment category grew by 28 percent to $142 million in 2020 – bumping its total market share up to 43 percent.

The New Zealand Government just released its emissions reduction plan discussion document, which contains a message signed by the Minister of Climate Change, Hon James Shaw, acknowledging that we all have a role to play in the reckoning against high-emissions in Aotearoa.

One important first step that individuals can take, is to assess the investments that their portfolios are made up of – whether that’s KiwiSaver or a group of other funds.

“While government policy will be crucial, so too are the plans and strategies you will develop to reduce emissions in your own organisations and communities,” the note reads.

Businesses and individuals are also turning to carbon offset schemes to counterbalance their carbon-heavy activities via investment in environmental projects around the world.

The financial sector in particular has a critical part to play in supporting Aotearoa’s climate goals.

For example, airlines will often present consumers with the option to offset their share of a flight’s carbon emissions when purchasing an airline ticket.

However, there has been criticism surrounding the use of ESG by fund managers, due to the heightened risk of companies greenwashing Four years later in 2019, New Zealand passed its zero-carbon amendment which set a national – a form of marketing spin which misleads the public about an organisation’s target to cut the lion’s share of our greenhouse environmental practices. gases – except for methane from agriculture and waste – to effectively reach net zero by the Screening companies for misleading claims and second half of the century. unsustainable practices can be tricky.

Investors are increasingly moving to consider environmental, social and governance (ESG) conditions into their stock market portfolios.

The Mindful Money NZ website provides users with the lists of individual stocks, and their sectors in many of those funds.

Though such initiatives can buy us time, environmentalists and activists have deemed

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this strategy as short-term mitigation, rather than long-term elimination in the race to reach net-zero.

The transition to a green economy will require joint action on multiple fronts – from policy makers and institutional investors, through to businesses and individual consumers.

Ultimately, we need to rapidly phase out fossil fuels – coal, oil and gas and transition to renewable energy sources.

Through shifting capital to low-carbon technologies – specifically renewable energy assets – investors can expect better returns, as well as a future void from extreme climate events along with rising sea levels.

While such commitments may prove to be challenging, it’s certainly well-within the realm of possibility.

Mindful Money New Zealand reports that KiwiSaver providers offering fossil fuelfree funds are: • Bank of New Zealand

• Pathfunder

• Booster

• Simplicity

• InvestNow

• SuperLife

• Medical Assurance Society • Westpac.

• NZ Funds Data released by Mindful Money NZ reveals that earlier this year, KiwiSaver funds’ sold out of $331 million of their fossil fuel company investments – dropping from $1.85 billion to $1.54 billion in the six months ended March 31.

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Management | Local Developments

Your place, your space

By Rosie Duff

That’s the tagline for ‘The Grand’, a hospitality and visitor hub that’s anticipated to open in Christchurch’s Cathedral Square early next year.

The vision is for a space that Canterbury locals are proud of – think a ‘must-see’ destination for individuals visiting from near and afar.

experience showcasing the South Island’s finest wine, cheese and meat.

At a grand old age of 140 years, the former Chief Post Office is the sole-survivor of the western end of the square, post-quakes.

The Grand’s full information memorandum details its plans to make use of alternative supply chains which will be localised as much as possible.

The building has sat untouched since then, and featured on the council’s “dirty 30” list of sites, branded as ‘barriers’ to the city’s rebuild.

Menu development for the hospitality venues will be based on local procurement, with less reliance on imported ingredients.

Fortunately, strengthening completed in the 1990s allowed the building to be preserved.

Christchurch entrepreneur and director Darin Rainbird, proposes that The Grand has the ability to fuse together the city’s latest and greatest spots.

The present restoration job is being completed with the financial aid of a $900,000 landmark heritage grant from the city council, and includes replacing the rooftop as well as the clock tower, along with the internal and external walls.

While The Grand Cathedral Square Limited will own and operate businesses occupying the Old Chief Post Office Building, they do not own the property itself – with the current lease locked in for 25-years.

As a significant piece of the city’s fabric, the building makes the ideal venue for the new development, which is set to house a French patisserie, gathering area, i-SITE visitor centre, plus a restaurant and bar venue.

The top floor will reportedly be host to a pastry school, art gallery and an unmatched tasting

“Cathedral Square has always been a focal point for Christchurch.

“There are some exciting developments that have brought more people back into the CBD, but there’s very little linkage between them.

“So being right in the centre, we feel that The Grand can bring together the likes of the new Regent Street Precinct, The Terrace, The Crossing, and the soon to be completed Cathedral and be that vibrant central space for the people.

“Given our location, our team and the developments that are planned around Cathedral Square, we believe we are well positioned to be part of and add to the revitalisation of our city,” Darin says.

A key driver of this project has been the enthusiastic support from the public, so accordingly, “we want it to be owned by this community,” the official website reads.

To fund the redevelopment, the team behind The Grand are raising a minimum of $800,000 and a maximum of $2 million through an equity crowdfunding campaign on PledgeMe. Darin explains that this provides locals with a chance to secure a piece of Christchurch’s history and future.

“The crowdfunding option allows us to give everyone the opportunity to participate if they want to.

“We had over 460 sign-ups to our investor pre-registration list, so we know there are a lot of people who may still want to be part of our journey.

“We’d love to see them get on board!”

Rainbird adds.

The campaign launched on September 23 and $406,213 dollars has been raised thus far and the offer will officially close on October 27.

The Grand’s full information memorandum addresses the potential challenges the development faces, which range from a delayed opening date due to construction and fit-out delays, through to loss of revenue as a consequence of COVID-19 related alert level changes.

Risks that are being mitigated through weekly meetings with the construction company’s project manager and the landlord, and a robust online purchasing presence their PledgeMe page reads.

To combat the current worker shortage a strong customer service programme and staff review system is also being implemented with quality being a key focus point.

All going to plan, Cantabrians should expect to see The Grand open to the public in February next year. CT

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Management | Local Developments

Convention Centre opening postponed

By Natasha Parrant

The new Christchurch Convention Centre has had to postpone its opening due to the Delta outbreak.

Delaying the opening of the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has affected many attendees and organisers who planned to go to the events held there.

Te Pae is Otautahi’s meaning Christchurch's gathering place. Originally The Christchurch Convention Centre was New Zealand’s only purpose-built convention centre, which opened in 1997, but was demolished after the 2011 earthquake.

Now renamed Te Pae, the centre has been redeveloped and intended to open in October.

However, there's been a further delay until December this year due to the Delta outbreak.

The government-owned company is beside the Otakaro, meaning Avon River, and was created to continue the growth and development of Christchurch, as well as help boost sociocultural and economic connections between the city and the world.

has a 1400-seat auditorium and 24 meetings room, which can have up to 1500 people.

opportunity to put New Zealand business events back on the world stage.”

• Te Pae was influenced by several phrases in te reo Maori such as:

Since the Delta outbreak, popular events such as The Smart Christchurch Innovation Expo have had to reschedule until later this year or next year. The expo was going to be one of the first events to occur in the new convention centre, where more than 100 interactive exhibits would be displayed. Roughly 10,000 attendees planned to come over the two days.

• Te Pae Maunga: Aotearoa’s mountain views • Te Pae Whenua: the vast grassland in New Zealand

• Te Pae Tangata: a place to gather, talk, host, Before the opening, about 70 domestic and entertain, and inform others.

Australasian events planned to take place. The venue can hold events, conferences, exhibitions, The Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre and marketing opportunities. general manager Ross Steele said in June, “As Te Pae also provides food and cultural services, the first of New Zealand’s new generation of live entertainment, AV, and technology. Te Pae convention centres to open we have a unique

“We have had around 20 events affected by the alert level 4 lockdown and the subsequent delay, as well as by the ongoing alert level uncertainty,” Ross says.

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“While the delay in opening is not ideal for us, we really feel for our clients who have been impacted and we have been working with them to find the best solution for their needs, whether that is moving dates or assisting them to find an alternative venue that will ensure these events are kept in our city.”

Staff will decide when to host again once they get a better idea of the level changes and how that'll impact the business events industry.

“All the teams involved in the delivery of Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre are committed to completing the building as soon as possible, and we continue to plan for an opening in December.” CT

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Management | Achievement

A new light on paralympians

By Megan Dunn

There is no doubt that Sophie Pascoe is New Zealand’s most successful Paralympian of all time however, it’s time to look at her through a new lens - as in fact, is does she deserve the title of being the greatest Kiwi athlete ever?

Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) chief executive, Fiona Allan acknowledges that, “There is more work to do to continue to raise the profile of Para sport and ensure that Paralympians are best supported and many more Paralympians become household names.

“Everyone has a role to play – to include organisations such as ourselves, National Sports Organisations, Government, media and broadcasters, sponsors and of course each of us as individuals.”

As of 2021 Pascoe’s medal count stands at an astounding 19: 11 gold, seven silver and one bronze medal. No other Kiwi athlete comes even close to this feat.

So why is Pascoe so tightly categorized with her Paralympian status?

Her achievements surpass the restriction of being bound to someone who is disabled; she is an athlete - an amazing one at that - the type of athlete New Zealand has never seen before.

considering her insane athletic capabilities and unmatched achievements.

Could this be due to an unconscious bias people maintain surrounding the credibility of the Paralympics and disabled people in general?

Paralympians assume the role of second-best athletes. The question needs to be posed: how would we treat a ‘typical’ athlete if they had won Today, the conversations surrounding prejudices seem more open and honest than ever before, 19 Olympic medals? but what is so intriguing is that even with this One’s premonition entails extensive media heightened level of consciousness and, on the coverage that would be frankly oversaturated. surface, ‘acceptance of all’ this does not fully They would be the face of any sporting related translate. The spread of bias continues. advertisement and marketed overseas as the Partially this is caused by subliminal ultimate Kiwi heroine. messages imbedded into us during early Pascoe is certainly overlooked compared to developmental years. her able-bodied counterparts, she doesn’t Depiction of minorities in the media (or lack get the credit nor visibility she should thereof) reinforce stereotypical ideas fortifying

In saying this, momentum is picking up year by year resulting in a positive chain reaction.

“

The continued growth of Paralympic sport is huge and the increased interest from New Zealanders to watch the Paralympics is fantastic.

”

the mentality that those in minority groups are ‘different’ or ‘less than’.

The 2013 New Zealand Disability Survey estimated that a total of 1.1 million (24 percent) New Zealanders were disabled.

“During the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, many New Zealanders were inspired by Paralympians from within NZ and also from across the world,” Fiona says.

“The continued growth of Paralympic sport is huge and the increased interest from New Zealanders to watch the Paralympics is fantastic.”

The Paralympics represents empowerment for all involved.

This feeling of empowerment needs to translate to wider society to enact a reposition of attitudes around the event and athletes who work so hard to push the boundaries. Let’s strive to celebrate Paralympians the way they truly deserve.

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Management | Sales

Five ways to get more sales Sales have dwindled over the past financial year for many businesses.

It’s not just the lockdown followed by the snap lockdowns and the declining economy - people are nervous about interacting with one another.

Raimond Volpe, CEO of Dynamo Selling, is an expert at sales and implementing systems that help individuals and businesses improve their sales figures.

Raimond has also overcome major mental health breakdowns and shares his best tips for making sales in the current state of the world, following the pandemic.

1. Pick up the phone It’s becoming a rare strategy, using the telephone to close deals.

The newer generation of workers is used to newer forms of contact, like email and instant messaging.

Telephone calls feel confrontational, but this remains the most effective way to seal a deal and close a sale.

During challenging economic times, like the global pandemic and its aftermath the following year, employing these old-fashioned strategies gives you a clear path forward with little or no competition.

So, go on, pick up the phone, don’t send an email. Make direct contact.

2. Have something of value to offer

efficiently and easily, you define your value which helps you to sell your service.

Value equals time and then money.

There’s something uniquely personal about an in-person meeting.

3. End the conversation with a concrete commitment

As the salesperson, it is easier to gauge the reaction of your lead when you talk about what you’re offering.

Don’t calculate that in monetary terms, the true commodity you are selling is time.

A subtle change in your phrasing can take a loose interest and turn it into a concrete sale without manipulating, twisting, or convincing the other person to do something they’re not particularly sold on.

Whether it is a product or service, you’re giving your buyers a solution that saves them time.

The trick lies in setting a concrete agreement, and getting a commitment from your lead.

The currency that sells is not money, but rather time. It’s hours or skills.

How do the top salespeople get a commitment?

Ask yourself a simple question: what is your value right now?

How do you save people’s time? By making it easier for people to achieve their goals fast,

4. Visit your leads in person

Instead of finishing a call with “Let’s touch base next week”, lock it in with a definite arrangement: “let’s meet on Tuesday at 9AM ‘’.

You can read the situation better and build a better connection with the other person.

Talk less and listen more.

People don’t want all the facts and the science, they simply want to know how you are going to make certain aspects of life easier, less time consuming, more enjoyable.

Allow the other person to vent, don’t try to sell by talking, sell by listening and using as few words as possible to offer a remedy for the problems you’re hearing about.

5. Keep your meetings brief and schedule them as sparsely as possible Engage in faster interactions that are more impactful.

With time being a major commodity, it is imperative to keep your meetings brief, to the point, otherwise, people get anxious.

We all have busy lives, lingering on a single topic or task for too long leaves people feeling restless and nervous.

The solution you’re offering is supposed to save people time and energy - don’t undo that with many meetings that are lengthy.

In fact, fewer meetings make people more likely to want to commit to you because time is a valuable commodity. CT

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Focus On | Animal Rescue

Help save the lives of animals Our animal shelters and rescues work day in, day out, without recognition, acknowledgement, or the government funding that they need and deserve.

If you believe that animal shelters deserve assistance from the government then please help them by signing and sharing this petition before it’s too late.

You can be the difference and help save lives - all you have to do is sign the petition.

“I call on government to provide financial funding by way of a special fund for our animal shelters across New Zealand to be These shelters are in desperate need of financial applied for food, shelter and medical bills, support to feed, shelter, rehabilitate and provide while the rescue animals are prepared for medical care to unloved, abandoned or abused re-homing and adoption.” animals, so they can have a second chance Sign the petition here: https://actionnetwork. at life. org/petitions/shelters-will-go-animals-willWithout this help, animals will likely die. die-act-now-2?source=direct_link&.

These shelters are stretched and at serious This message was brought to you by risk of closing down if they don’t receive financial support.

Action Network. CT

Retraction In the September-October edition of Canterbury Today [Issue 162], the article on Max Hoffman and Eastern Drycleaners [pages 12-13], contained unsubstantiated statements about the dry-cleaning agent PERC. The views expressed by Mr Hoffman pertaining to PERC are disputed and were not verified by Canterbury Today as being truthful.

Because information in that article was incorrect, we as publishers acknowledge that its inclusion may have misled or deceived the public.

Therefore, Canterbury Today apologises unreservedly for this oversight and for any inconvenience, embarrassment or harm the running of this article may have caused. CT

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Management | Your People

Creating a culture of performance development

Rob Clarke Rob Clarke, CEO of Learning Architects

Practices that will change your workplace for the better Having clarity when it comes to your organisational goals can be a business superpower.

When everyone is clear on the big picture and knows what is expected of them it means that a key piece of the high-performance puzzle is in place, and that’s great.

But it’s only part of the picture. How to go about realising your ambitions requires another key piece of the puzzle - and that is developing a culture of performance development.

Here are a few things to consider if you want to change up your current approach to improving performance in your organisation.

Assess your own mindset first As you consider the individual needs of your people and the collective needs of your organisation, what springs to mind?

Is your focus on what can’t be or isn’t done?

If so, change your mindset and instead start with identifying what each person does best, and see if you can position them in a role that takes advantage of this.

Being mindful of how you judge others before talking to them is important, and one thing to be aware of as you do this is the fundamental attribution error.

And regardless of whether you are a small-tomedium business, a large corporate enterprise or an independent operator - the same principles The fundamental attribution error is when all apply. The only difference is that how you too often, people blame the shortcomings of go about putting the pieces together may others on their character, while blaming their change slightly. own shortcomings on environmental factors.

Our traditional approaches are broken

How you go about supporting people to achieve can make a big difference.

Traditional performance management approaches typically focus on a person’s deficits - what they lack or where they fall short - rather than where they excel. And as can be expected from this approach, it creates a culture of fear and control rather than a climate of possibilities.

So how can we move from this traditional negative approach to one of performance development? To empowering people so that they know not only what to work on next, but how to go about it, and ideally, why it is important.

When you can put these pieces of the puzzle together, it enables them to take action and have a shared sense of ownership for driving the organisation forward.

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For instance, if someone fails to meet a deadline, you might think, “gosh, they are lazy,” whereas if you’ve missed a deadline, you might say, “I have had too many interruptions”.

Instead, focus on aspects that are unrelated to the person's character or personality, such as whether they have been given adequate training, resources or the tools to do the job.

Focus on each team member’s goal Do you know the goals of each member of your team?

It may sound obvious, but when you do, it puts you in a better position to provide ongoing support, resources and coaching to help them improve.

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Find a check-in frequency and an approach (or approaches) toward providing support that works for your organisation.

“

Resist telling people what they should be doing.

For instance, if you operate a small business with only one or two employees, then you might include an external coach as part of your support structure; they can help provide an outside perspective, challenge you and provide necessary guidance or resources if required.

Instead, I recommend

If you have a team, then you may look at developing a coaching approach in-house.

Regardless of the size of your team, it is important to regularly connect with people, so that you can support them.

a project.

Vary your approach Do you generally have a once or at best twiceyearly review meeting?

Gallup’s research indicates that the most effective managers have a variety of different conversations with their employees - and at least three of these are a form of coaching conversation. For example, a: • Weekly quick connect to help you both stay in touch with current work tasks and issues • Monthly or fortnightly check-in to help the you understand how things are going and to discuss short and long-term goals • Developmental coaching session focussed on a specific project or issue of importance to the individual • Twice-yearly progress review where you explore goals, performance targets, strengths and development options.

Ask results-focused questions Resist telling people what they should be doing.

Instead, I recommend that you ask questions that will help reveal their thinking about an issue or a project.

that you ask questions that will help reveal their thinking about an issue or

”

By doing this, you are effectively helping them come up with the answers to issues themselves, rather than solving their problems for them, and more likely engaging them in the process.

Monitor for improvement Keeping track of how each person is going is important. It helps develop accountability and ensures that everyone (and your organisation) continues to head in the right direction.

This monitoring can be as simple as keeping actions in your meeting notes. Whatever you do, make sure you spend time not only monitoring success, but also celebrating the wins as you go.

Celebrate the wins regularly How often do you recognise and celebrate a job well done?

Gallup’s research indicates that one important factor in increasing engagement at work is to ensure each person is given praise or recognised at least every seven days. I suggest you try to be specific and recognise your team in relation to key tasks or responsibilities they have. CT

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Management | Technology

Machine learning and the future of construction Machine learning (ML) in the construction industry has come a long way in terms of understanding what can be achieved using data science.

This data, traced from previous projects and activities, and collected over several years, can become the source of data that ML models require for training.

We’ve seen increases in its capabilities to process big data through distributed computing, as well as the emergence of Machine Learning as a Service (MLaaS), from leading cloud providers including Oracle, to democratise artificial intelligence (AI).

Model accuracy can improve with not just more of the same data but also greater amounts of different data.

We are only beginning to scratch the surface of ML-driven possibilities in the construction industry.

But are industry professionals and project managers ready to embrace it?

Data is the key Data is the lifeblood for any AI and ML strategy to work, and while many construction businesses have data available to them, not many realise its full potential.

Karthik Venkatasubramanian Vice president of data and analytics at Oracle Construction and Engineering

Models can use this existing data repository to train on, and then compare against, a validation test before it is used for real world prediction scenarios.

Often called feature selection, the vast amount of data from different systems allows identification “markers” of project success and delays, contributing to building ML models with greater accuracy than was possible before.

Machine learning in construction The industry boasts many emerging use-cases of ML, in particular ideas that will positively impact important industry-specific metrics – schedule, budget, quality, safety and risk.

Computer vision is being used to solve problems such as identifying progress on site, tracking delivery of materials, understanding movement of labour and material on-site, as well as ensuring compliance of physical distancing rules on construction sites.

The application of ML techniques to Data and ML is being used to change the status- unstructured data derived from videos and photos is becoming increasingly pervasive in quo across all these key dimensions. solving several use-cases that were often tricky to solve previously.

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Use of natural-language processing (NLP) is also now being deployed for use-cases that should reduce manual error, improve productivity, and mitigate risks.

For example, NLP is being used to track submittals required for different jobs, identify non-standard terms in a contract, highlight a potential HSE issue, or escalate the risk of an upcoming change request.

which can be used as training data to make predictions.

Schedules and budgets are becoming smart by incorporating ML-driven recommendations, supply chain selection is becoming smart by using data across disparate systems and comparing performance, also risk planning is getting smart by using ML to identify and quantify risks from the past that might have a bearing on the present.

The future As smartification drives datafication, AI driven transformation will naturally happen as companies begin to question how to leverage all the data that they have.

The cost of ML is already decreasing with infrastructure that leverages pay-as-you-go models in the cloud.

These allow contractors and owners to better plan and respond to situations.

New tools are democratising ML to the nondata scientists by way of drag-drop modelling, visualising predictions and simplifying the creation of easy to consume insights.

The use of ML for predicting schedule delays and cost-blowouts is another area where it really helps, particularly as there is a lot of prior data on schedule and budget performance

As ML is made more available across the industry, the next five years will see a significant uptake in this technology being adopted as part of ongoing digital transformation efforts. CT

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Managemennt | Awards

And the winner is…

Highly responsive, agile businesses announced as finalists in Canterbury business awards This year’s Westpac Champion Business Awards attracted a record number of entries, with the finalists demonstrating a strong focus on adapting to the ever-changing business environment as they continue to respond to Covid lockdowns, new delta alert level restrictions, along with their focus on staff wellbeing.

There are 14 Award categories, covering a range of business sizes, focus, and various stages of growth. The finalists in each of the categories represented a diverse range of sectors, including aerospace, agriculture, construction, healthcare, manufacturing, social enterprise, technology, and tourism.

Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce chief executive, Leeann Watson, says “We were pleased to see the significant number of entries in this year’s Awards.

“This shows that despite all of the challenges of operating in a COVID-19 environment, businesses have a real drive to share their story and celebrate their team’s success - in whatever form that may be - and reinforces the hugely important role that business has in our society.

2021 Westpac Champion Business Awards finalists

“This year, we again saw a real display of highly adaptive, responsive and innovative local organisations with an increasingly agile focus in their business operations - and aligned with that was a strong customer-centric approach; responding to the market trends, supporting customers and clients and changing tack to meet rapidly changing consumer behaviour amid a vastly different operating environment.

• Christchurch Casino Champion Customer Experience - Medium/Large Enterprise Catalyst Performance Agronomy, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, Mt Hutt Ski Area

“We have also continued to see businesses clearly seeking to focus on staff and societal wellbeing as a measurement of what success is. Over the last few years, this has become more and more a key defining characteristic of Canterbury business.”

Winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, November 24.

The Awards Ceremony will only take place in the current format at Alert Level 1 - if Canterbury is at Alert Level 2 or higher, this format will change. CT

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• Champion Customer Experience - Small Enterprise Akaroa Dolphins, Riverside Market, Shizoku Martial Arts

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Customers are provided with guidance and support throughout the buying or selling auction process ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish.

The team offer traditional onsite auctions as well as online

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Presentation is foremost to the team, as is their outstanding customer service, and a friendly, accommodating approach to business.

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If you just wing each interview, the direction, tone and outcome of each conversation can vary wildly, making it more difficult to compare candidates to each other. The outcome of this can be that, despite spending all that time interviewing people, to a certain extent, you’re still none the wiser.

Then, the chances are, when it comes to deciding who to hire, you’re going to go with your gut, as you won’t reliably be able to compare one answer to another because you didn’t ask each candidate a few standard questions you can compare them by.

So, a little planning can go a long way towards helping you make an informed and considered choice of who to hire, as opposed to just sitting down with each individuals, having a completely random chat, and then hoping you get it right.

Mistake 2

- Overvaluing experience

It is risky to bet too heavily on how much experience a person has, when there are so many factors that determine whether someone will be successful in the role and a good fit for your organisation.

An applicant’s skills, knowledge, aptitude and personality all factor into the equation.

Because experience is a tangible and measurable component, it is very easy to overvalue it above less easily measurable factors such as intelligence, drive, and other components of raw talent.

Experience accumulates with time in the role and skills can be learned and acquired.

Hiring new employees is not an easy process.

You’ve got to wade through a mountain of applications, weed out the few you’re interested in and then interview all the candidates – all while still running your company.

But if you want your company to grow, you need to hire the right people.

You need people that are not only right for the now but can also help you move the business towards bigger and better things in the future.

This is especially so for smaller businesses and startups because they have fewer employees and a limited income with which to work.

Your next great employee might be someone with limited experience, but who has fantastic aptitude and flexibility.

Placing too much stock on a heavy list of qualifications in your job description, or only considering applicants with x amount of experience and not considering other factors, means you might be turning a blindeye to someone better suited to the role and your company’s culture.

However, this is a double-edged sword and there is a flip side.

If you’re looking to hire someone without any experience in the hope of finding someone cheaper – you might be buying into a false economy.

Ignoring a candidate with what you consider to be necessary experience in the hope of saving a few thousand dollars a year by hiring an unproven person, might not actually save you anything, due to the amount of on-the-job training and potentially decreased productivity the less experienced employee will deliver.

So, as with all aspects of running your business, you need to find a balance.

For these companies every single dollar they spend on finding and hiring an employee can affect their longer term success, meaning it’s vital that they avoid making major mistakes while hiring.

But it definitely pays to consider more than just the experience a candidate comes with.

You want someone with the potential to grow into the perfect for your company.

But the trouble is that running a small business is hard work and there often simply isn’t the time to commit to a thorough hiring process; and as result, corners get cut.

Mistake 3

The good news is that your competitors are probably making these mistakes whilst hiring as well. This means there’s an opportunity for you to seize; to waste less time and money by hiring right so you can get back to running your company.

This is a common mistake many small business owners make.

Mistake 1

- Not having an interview plan

The single biggest hiring mistake small business owners make is winging it or not having an interview plan. At best they’ll have a few questions written down on a piece of paper, but little else.

You need to treat an interview like a deductive science. You’ve sorted through all the resumes and selected the best individuals to be interviewed – but now you need a better way of evaluating their suitability for the role than just having a chat and going with your gut.

You achieve this by having an interview plan.

- Assuming the hiring process ends once they’re hired

An employee’s productivity is comprised of 50 percent ability [the reasons you hired them], and 50 percent of what happens once they’re in the workplace.

So conducting a good interview, offering that promising person the job and them saying ‘yes’ is only half the task.

Employees need to be properly induced and introduced to your company, well trained and supported.

It doesn’t matter how impressed you are with someone’s potential – poor training, insufficient access to resources, and little feedback will add up to poor job satisfaction and this will impact their performance.

So recruitment doesn’t stop at the ‘welcome aboard’ handshake – you need to make sure they are introduced, trained and supported every step of the way.

First – decide what questions are the most important, and ask them to each candidate.

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If you would like to talk to one of our consultants about your recruitment needs, please contact us on

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This doesn’t have to be an iron-clad, exactly repeatable process – but it does need to have some consistency to it so you can accurately assess candidates’ answers in relation to each other.

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Second – know what answers you’re looking for. Then you can assess each answer objectively and place candidates in pecking order.

Management | Immigration

A one-off residence pathway The Minister of Immigration recently announced the 2021 Resident Visa is a simplified residence pathway for around 165,000 migrants in New Zealand.

The 2021 Resident Visa is a more simplified process for migrants as more businesses and migrants will have more clarity to plan for the future.

Benefits of the new visa include: • A one-off resident visa for up to 165,000 migrants provides certainty for New Zealand businesses to plan ahead • The visa creates a residence pathway for over 5,000 health and aged care workers around 9,000 primary industry workers and more than 800 teachers • This well-organised application process will require a health, police, and security check

The government understands there’s still uncertainty for migrants struggling in the country due to the borders being closed.

Kris says offering the new visa will ensure migrants feel supported, safe, and secure, as well as benefit employers who can hire migrants in their workplace again, which will help grow the economy.

Immigration New Zealand estimates eligible visa holders will also include around 15,000 construction and 12,000 manufacturing workers on relevant visa types, but only some might be eligible.

“These people have all played an important role in keeping our country moving over the last 18 months,” Kris says.

Most people with a work-related visa (including their immediate family) will be able to use the new resident visa, such as Essential Skills, Work to Residence, and Post Study Work visas.

• Hold occupational registration and work in the The new visa also applies to essential workers health or educational sector entering New Zealand through the critical worker border exceptions for roles six months or longer • Work in personal care or other critical health worker positions until July 31 next year.

• Work in a specified position in the primary Visa holders can also have their partners and industries (mining, agriculture or forestry). dependents listed in their applications.

• Most applications will be granted within a year of the category opening.

To be eligible to use this one-off residence pathway, the main applicant had to be in New The Minister of Immigration Kris Faafoi says, Zealand on September 29 this year, as well “we are providing a way forward for our migrant as hold or have already applied for (and are families who have been long disrupted by granted) one of the eligible work visas.

COVID-19, while ensuring businesses have the certainty they need to plan into the future and Visa holders must also meet at least one of the continue driving the economic recovery. following criteria to be eligible: “The changes give migrants certainty about their future here, allowing them to continue putting down roots, and will help reunite many families who were separated by the border restrictions that prevent COVID-19 entering the community.”

28 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Note: The 2021 Resident Visa isn’t eligible for those with short-term visas (visitors, students, working holidaymakers, and seasonal employees).

Applications will open in two phases; the first phase will be held on December 1 this year and the second phase will be on March 1 next year.

• Earn above the median wage ($27 per hour or more)

Immigration New Zealand will contact visa holders who are eligible to apply as of December 1, hopefully by the end of October with more information about the process.

• Work in a position that's written on the Long Term Skill Shortage List

Kris says “the government is committed to rebalancing the immigration system for those

• Lived in New Zealand for three years or more

who can come to work, study, and live in New Zealand once our borders re-open”.

The government’s message to industries and employers is to make sure the workplace is very flexible and accommodating.

Employers should make sure they still hire and train local workers, but also ensure they rely less on untrained migrant labour.

Immigration New Zealand has an eligibility checker used as more of a guide than a confirmation of eligibility.

Check the guide via: www.immigration.govt.nz/ new-zealand-visas/already-have-a-visa/one-offresidence-visa.

For more information go to: www.beehive.govt. nz/release/one-residence-pathway-providescertainty-migrants-and-business. CT

CRS exists to support people from refugee and migrant backgrounds living in Otautahi/Christchurch to settle successfully in Aotearoa/New Zealand by providing a range of professional services that build on strengths to promote wellbeing and resilience.

BILINGUAL COMMUNITY WORK Providing cultural, linguistic and communitybased support to clients from refugee backgrounds and staff across all areas of service delivery.

CULTURALLY AND LINGUISTICALLY DIVERSE (CALD) COUNSELLING Providing counselling for people from CALD backgrounds, either in their mother tongue, or through an interpreter.

HEALTH PROMOTION Improving social inclusion, wellbeing and positive health practices for people from refugee and migrant backgrounds.

SOCIAL WORK A social work response for resettlement and acculturation issues, mental health and family violence.

BILINGUAL TUTOR AND CHILDCARE SUPPORT AT LIVING WELL IN CHRISTCHURCH In partnership with English Language Partners, CRS provides a bilingual tutor and childcare support for the pre-school children of the learners attending the programme.

PSYCHOSOCIAL AND MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT For people affected by the 15 March mosque attacks.

Level 1, 283 Lincoln Road, Addington Christchurch 8024 Phone 03 335 0311 | Email admin@crs.org.nz | www.crs.org.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 29

Spotlight On | Silky Otter Cinemas

Redefining the cinematic experience A new age of cinema is fast approaching with Silky Otter Cinemas set to make waves across New Zealand

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Around four or five years ago, Neil Lambert, now Silky Otter Cinemas’ CEO, got to thinking about the future of cinema and what people want out of it.

As an absolute cinema geek, he decided he didn’t want it to be the same experience it had been for years with uncomfortable seats, sometimes cold popcorn and varying quality in sound and projection.

For example, they boast a full menu with starters, sides, mains and desserts - not to mention all your favourite cinema snacks. If you want a drink with that, they’ve got wines, beers and cocktails.

And, when you finally get to the auditorium, you don’t need to worry about it being jam packed. Each auditorium seats around 50 people. Neil says this means each customer can receive personalised service and it doesn’t feel cramped.

The cherry on top? Ticket prices are in line with other cinemas offering a premium experience - so you’re not paying an arm and a leg for a nice night out.

Neil grew up in Christchurch, visiting the Hoyts cinema on Moorhouse Ave and watching blockbusters like Jurassic Park.

Although this was a fantastic time back then, Neil says he wanted something new. He says he wanted a night out - not just a film. Thus, Silky Otter Cinemas was born.

But it’s not just the food, comfy seating and nice drinks that Neil wanted from his cinema brainchild. Neil explains that, behind a film, there’s so much hard work that goes on and sometimes, the magic is lost in poor projection and subpar sound.

These days, they’re a luxury cinema experience designed to make movie watching brand new again.

He says each auditorium has black interiors, laser projection technology and immersive surround sound.

“

I can make sure as hell the movies are put in the best possible light. I want to create the ultimate movie going experience and let the film speak for itself.

- Neil Lambert, CEO of Silky Otter Cinemas

“I can make sure as hell the movies are put in the best possible light,” Neil says.

“All that hard work is to make a film peak at cinema. I want to create the ultimate movie going experience and let the film speak for itself.”

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30 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

”

Neil says Christchurch and Auckland won’t be the only places to receive the Silky Otter treatment.

“It’s always been the plan to have cinemas around the country. We want to take the brand nationwide to play in regional parts to pick up the game around movie going,” he says.

Currently, there’s another site being built in Richmond, Nelson, one heading to Ponsonby, Auckland and another to Queenstown.

More than just movies Neil says they also show sporting events, TV shows, documentaries and more.

The auditoriums are also available for event hire. Neil says that the world of film is changing and people need to adapt with it.

He says Covid has only sped that change up.

“Covid has been tough for the cinema industry and people want it back,” Neil says.

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Spotlight On | Silky Otter Cinemas

“

It’s that need to be in a dark room with other people experiencing something emotional and full of escapism. In a world of Covid, you need to escape.

- Neil Lambert, CEO of Silky Otter Cinemas

”

Plus, as local indie films take off, New Zealand is a great place to be for movie going. CT Silky Otter Wigram 90 The Runway Wigram Christchurch (03) 740 2155 www.silkyotter.co.nz “It’s that need to be in a dark room with other people experiencing something emotional and full of escapism. In a world of Covid, you need to escape.”

Neil doesn’t want to see movies dying and says that if he can get the younger generation into going to the movies more, they’ll be able to create a new nostalgia.

From here, the goal is simply expansion and growing the brand. With the new locations soon to open, they’re looking at how the experience can be improved upon further.

For example, Neil says they’re introducing something new called Silencer.

It’s a container to deliver snacks in so the annoying rustling of chips packets and popcorn bags is a thing of the past.

“It’s a fine balance between the energy in a theatre and annoying sounds.”

He says they’re also working on being more sustainable so use reusable cups and are

— Advertising Feature

Ticket prices Adults tickets are $19, children’s tickets are $13, students tickets are $17 and senior tickets are $13.50.

On Mondays, for Silky Otter’s “I Love Mondays” all tickets are $15 which includes a bottomless popcorn.

You can find out more and book your next cinematic experience at www.silkyotter.co.nz. working on chilled cups that keep your beverage cool for up to two hours.

All of this is alongside a truly epic upcoming film season. With Phase Four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe quickly coming to our screens, we can expect films like Eternals and Spider-Man: No Way Home to draw audiences in. Matrix: Resurrections, Top Gun: Maverick and The Kings Man are all coming soon so all the more reason to get onto booking tickets before they sell out.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 31

Spotlight On | Barrington Gifts

The gift of giving Everyone loves that feeling of giving someone special the perfect gift, the satisfaction of seeing their face as they unwrap their present is second to none, but let’s be honest, finding the perfect gift is often easier said than done.

It can include a tiresome process of going to multiple different stores to find the gift your after with the low level of variety these stores offer.

Barrington Gifts is the answer to everyone’s gift woes. A gorgeous boutique gift store located conveniently in two great locations in Christchurch, Barrington and South City shopping centers.

Each location offering great accessibility with ample carparking. The gift store offers a lovely relaxed shopping experience with gifts for everyone, including a great range for hard to buy men.

Being a locally owned Kiwi business, they understand their market and are experts in stocking exactly what they know their customers need and love.

Owners, Melissa and Mark love having a chat with their customers to give any advice whilst also allowing them the freedom to browse at their own leisure.

Barrington Gifts goes above and beyond to set themselves apart from other stores, they

know it’s the little touches that make all the difference, such as offering free gift wrapping and having lots of different payment options to suit all, including Afterpay, ZipPay, Laybuy and Humm.

Their stock includes a great range for woman, men, children, gift baskets, gifts for birthdays and other special occasions, homeware, ecofriendly gifts and a fun selection of games.

The hand selected collection of goods from the best of both local and international sources is something not to be missed.

The busiest gift season of all is just around the corner, but this year, instead of all the unnecessary time and stress spent on what gifts to buy who, make sure to check out the selection at Barrington gifts first.

They have new stock arriving weekly as we now head into the Christmas season, but a reminder not to leave all your shopping to the last minute given the current climate!

This is made even easier as Barrington gifts has an extensive online website that you can purchase off and get shipped right to your door.

What really sets Barrington gifts aside from the rest is the true passion Melissa and Mark have for their stores and products.

They have an eye for the coolest new products and for those that are of the highest quality.

Providing the most exceptional level of customer service is very important to them and their goal is for every one of their customers to leave their store with the best gift possible. CT

Barrington Gifts (03) 337-2337 store@barringtongifts.co.nz www.barringtongifts.co.nz Barrington Shopping 256 Barrington Street Christchurch 8024 South City Centre 555 Colombo Street Christchurch 8011 — Advertising Feature

Barrington Gifts where the best gifts come from Barrington Shopping, 256 Barrington Street, Christchurch 8024 South City Centre, 555 Colombo Street, Christchurch 8011 Phone 03 337-2337 | www.barringtongifts.co.nz 32 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Spotlight On | Fern Law

High-quality legal advice and support The team at Fern Law is committed to providing specialist legal services in areas such as immigration, employment, commercial, property, wills, estates, family, surrogacy and adoption, and now criminal matters.

Collectively the team has many years of experience in legal services with the goal of providing high-quality advice and support.

Fern Law cares about its reputation, which is why the team wants the best for its clients. The ability to analyse a set of facts and provide a suitable legal framework to achieve the desired result is a key focus for the lawyers there.

Phil is particularly experienced with the District Court criminal process, having previously served for over 18 years in the New Zealand Police.

“

I always give my clients

There Phil was a qualified detective and thereafter he was a police prosecuting sergeant with the Canterbury Police Prosecution Service in the Christchurch District Court. Phil was admitted to the bar in 2015.

Phil brings into the Fern Law team previous private practice experience with one of Canterbury’s oldest firms where he practiced in criminal, family, and civil court jurisdictional matters.

Phil also has recent experience working as in-house counsel for a government regulatory organisation where he advised on enforcement and compliance matters.

Phil has expertise with all criminal and trafficrelated offence work and appears regularly at the District Court on behalf of clients before the Courts on driving-related offences.

Clients are provided with new ideas and interesting insights. The firm is all about informing and educating clients during what can sometimes be a stressful legal process.

These offences include drink driving, driving while disqualified or suspended, and dangerous or careless driving. Phil also appears for clients on limited licence applications and has successfully argued applications for clients on discharge without conviction matters.

Fern Law recently appointed senior associate Phil McDonnell an experienced Court advocate who regularly appears before the District Court, Family Court and has also appeared before the High Court and Court of Appeal.

With experience in advocating for clients in the Family Court jurisdiction, Phil has assisted numerous clients through their difficult parenting, family violence (Protection Order) applications, and relationship property matters.

the best possible representation with the aim to successfully resolve their matters in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

”

Phil has experience with contracting out agreements and has also appeared in the Family Court and successfully negotiated relationship property disputes.

“I always give my clients the best possible representation with the aim to successfully resolve their matters in a cost-effective and efficient manner,” Phil says. CT Fern Law Level 1 1 Musgrove Close Wigram Christchurch 03 365 1013 chris@fernlaw.co.nz www.fernlaw.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Fern Law senior associate Phil McDonnell.

Our style of legal representation is based on Integrity, Trust, and Results.

Practice Areas • • • • • • • •

Family Relationship Property Surrogacy & Adoption Wills & EPOA Immigration Property Employment Commercial

Phone: 03 365 1013 | Mobile: 021 274 4791 Email: chris@fernlaw.co.nz | www.fernlaw.co.nz

Unit 6/1 Musgrove Close, Wigram, Christchurch 8025 www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 33

Property | Property Management

Beginner’s guide to property management

Understanding 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.

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.

Minor changes to the property

For those new to property management, the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) last year launched a new Beginner’s Guide to Property Management.

Tenants now also have more freedom in making The guide provides new property managers with minor changes to the premises, as landlords the knowledge and credentials they need to get must not unreasonably withhold consent for any started and succeed in the profession. minor renovations or alterations.

The course is designed and written by experts and it sets out simply, the many aspects of Minor changes could include; shelving, baby the role in an easy-to-use guide, which new or gates, picture hooks, curtains or window existing property managers can study in their coverings, securing furniture or appliances to own time using a quiz at the end of each section protect against earthquake risk or to make a to test their expanded knowledge. property child safe.

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.

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

Other changes Other changes that came into effect on 11 February 2021 were fibre broadband installation, ending rental bidding, annual rental increases, privacy and access to justice, assignment of a tenancy, landlord records, enforcement of the RTA and changes in the Tenancy Tribunal’s jurisdiction and administrative powers.

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-tenanciesamendment-act-2020-factsheet.pdf.

The next deadline for the Healthy Homes Standards is 1 July 2021 – for more information Fixed-term to Periodic Tenancies on these changes, visit: www.tenancy.govt.

Fixed-term tenancy agreements now convert to nz/about-tenancy-services/news/deadlineperiodic tenancies unless a landlord gives notice extended-for-healthy-homes-standardsusing the reasons listed above or in the RTA compliance-statement. CT 34 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

It can also be used by managers as a great induction course for new starters to a team.

REINZ chief executive, Bindi Norwell, says property managers who take their role and learning seriously will find that the course will put them in good stead to add value to their customers.

It will also arm them with the knowledge they need to ensure their landlords don’t end up being fined for failing to follow and adhere to relevant legislation.

“It all comes down to good communication and that’s something we have stressed right throughout the five modules, which make up the course,” Bindi says.

“Recently there have been a number of legislative amendments and reforms to tenancy law including the Healthy Homes Standards and the new Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020.

“This has meant that landlords and property managers have had to continuously keep up with these changes, so to support the wider industry, we’ve put a lot of thought into ensuring these changes are covered in the course,” she continues.

Around 35 percent of New Zealanders currently live in rental properties, but the property management profession has had no regulation for the past 12 years, meaning that almost

anybody has been able to become a property manager with no training or qualifications.

However, as new rules and regulations are potentially going to be introduced at some point in the near future, the need for comprehensively training property managers to understand the current requirements and keep up with the recent changes has become apparent – as has the importance of promoting best practice.

“

We really want to assist people in the property management profession because we see that as a big part of our role, and we think it’s time for everybody to lift their standards before regulation comes into effect.

”

“We feel that a course like this will be well received, given that the roles and responsibility of property managers have expanded so much over the years, and we are confident that people working in the property management industry will see the REINZ name and feel assured that this is a comprehensive and highquality offering.

“It is also a perfect lead into the New Zealand Certificate in Residential Property Management Qualification (Level 4).

“We really want to assist people in the property management profession because we see that as a big part of our role, and we think it’s time for everybody to lift their standards before regulation comes into effect.

“Our aim is for this course to become an industry ‘ABC’, and it will be updated regularly to keep learners up-to-speed with future changes.” CT

Focus On | A1 Property Managers

A1 Property Managers Having a good property manager in your corner who is armed with information, knowledge and decades of experience can make a huge difference to your experience as a property investor. They can be a sounding board for your ideas and can help you maximise your returns and opportunities

Since the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020, more responsibilities and regulations have been added to the landlord’s list. Here a few reasons why more people are turning to professional property managers for help.

Rent and bond

From ensuring you get the maximum rent at the outset, to gradual rent increases over time to make sure you get the best return on your investment, enlisting a professional to manage your rental property means Advertising for and your investment works hard for you – not selecting tenants the other way around. If you are keen to From advertising, managing enquiries, hosting avoid direct negotiation with tenants and viewings, selecting and vetting tenants, a don’t want the hassle of collecting rent or professional property manager can help reduce lodging bonds, a property manager will have vacancies, ensure you maximise your rental a robust system to get things ticking over income and secure quality tenants. Property without any fuss and should something go managers meet with potential tenants every single day and having someone in your corner wrong they will have a system to deal with things promptly to ensure things don’t spiral who is experienced in what to look for in a out of control. good tenant can make a huge difference. A property manager will also take care of all the Tribunal representation paperwork to ensure your tenancy agreement is accurate, lawful and contains detailed terms and legal expertise and conditions to help protect you in the future. Despite all the hard work, sometimes disputes end up in court. Property managers Property inspections understand the law, have experience working and maintenance with the Tenancy Tribunal to resolve issues A good property manager will have a thorough and can help by defending a case in court – taking the stress off the property owner. process for ingoing and outgoing property inspections which is essential should there be a future disagreement. Routine inspections can If you’re currently trying to do it all on your own, or you’re with another property be awkward if you’re not used to conducting manager and don’t feel like you’re getting them, but for property managers they are everyday tasks. They can also arrange repairs the level of care or expertise you deserve, perhaps it’s time to make the switch to and maintenance and often have preferred relationships and discounted rates with quality A1 Property Managers. Transferring to us contractors which means you’re not left having is simple and won’t cause disruption to to organise quotes and secure tradespeople. existing tenants.

Why you should choose A1 to professionally manage your property Our Focus: To maximise the return on your investment, while minimising your risk.

Choosing a property manager to look after one of your largest assets is essentially to make things easier for you. Our focus is to maximise the return on your investment, while minimising your risk, ensuring you have correct advice and knowledge limiting any stress and added expenses.

Hamish Wilson P. 0212 211 002 E. hamish@a1prop.co.nz A. 200 Fendalton Rd Christchurch, NZ 8052

www.a1prop.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 35

Focus On | Maree Firth-Bayleys

A tale of two markets Targeted policy spanning tenancy reforms, tax changes and tightening credit conditions are aimed at property investors, but is it possible to segment such a hot housing market, and what does it mean for the rest of us?

Clear in its mandate to support more sustainable house price while curbing investor appetites, kiwis are starting to see the effects of new Government policy in action, with the residential market now moving at two speeds.

"Some investors simply can't be bothered anymore but we're seeing the ones that can hold onto their investments are engaging property managers to help them navigate the changing landscape."

Where property investors' market share has dipped from historic highs, record value growth is still being achieved with the Real Estate Institute's (REINZ) Housing Price Index (HPI) noting a new high in June of 29.8 percent year-on-year.

"Movers are finding it challenging too, and we're seeing some sell their homes to then be priced out of the next tier up, or they can even end up panic buying."

While the lower end of the market may pause to digest recent regulatory changes, top-tier properties continue to sell for sky-high prices, leading some to ask whether the response from policy-makers is disproportionately impacting our national property market?

Specialising in the sale of standalone homes across the Christchurch region, salesperson Urszula Bedggood has experienced the wild ride of market dynamics and says extreme conditions require salespeople to scale up their skillset.

"We are finding that both buyers and sellers of all classes are needing extra attention, and it's important to support them in getting their future plans in place before listing their home for sale."

Bedggood extols the importance of premium services as the market changes.

"Heavy competition for virtually every listing results in rising prices and a sense of urgency which prevails despite shifting goalposts," she says.

"The current conditions for sellers, while offering high sale prices are demanding attention to detail and focus on aftercare from salespeople," she explains.

"Investors are bound by numbers, where purchasers buying on emotion are the ones putting more money on the table," she says.

The effects of tightening credit conditions for "Land is scarce and people are moving to the regions while there aren't nearly enough homes investors was almost instantaneous, with realtime offers scaled back following to meet demand."

the announcement of higher loan-to-value ratios, extended bright-line test and interest deductibility reform.

"Bank funding matters and there are different assessments according to the risk profile of a property."

"We can't really test the market until we understand and fix the issues around supply, until then we keep using temporary measures to curb runaway value growth which comes off in the wash."

BAYLEYS ALL OVER

RENTAL PROPERTIES METHVEN Jacqueline Gilbert 027 886 0179 | midcanterburyrentals@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

36 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Property | Rural & Lifestyle Blocks

Subdividing – a step by step guide If you are thinking about subdividing a property, it’s useful to review the steps you’ll need to take.

The feasibility study enables Envivo to answer these difficult questions recognising that every site is unique.

Christchurch Council has a wealth of advice on their website with diagrams and tips on managing the subdivision process.

Whether you are thinking of carving off the back of a section to make two lots, or developing a lifestyle block or a site that could be a large multi-development subdivision, the process is similar - it’s just the scale that changes.

The Council requires regular monitoring is undertaken throughout the process to ensure that all works and services are carried out and installed to the Council’s Infrastructure Design Standard.

Checklist: • A feasibility study provides a thorough report on the subdivision options for the site as well as any restrictions, issues or considerations that should be known about before proceeding

Derek adds, “One of the key factors that should be considered is availability of consultants. Find out contractors’ availability as that will have a huge impact on the speed a development gets underway – and ultimately how much it will cost.

• A site investigation, including a geotechnical assessment • A topographical survey, is required in most instances for subdivison/engineering design • A Subdivision Scheme Plan is then prepared with input from a Licensed Cadastral Surveyor • Civil Engineering design for earthworks and site access, including roading, footpaths, driveways.

• Infrastructure design for the provision of sewage, water supply, stormwater drainage, power and telecommunication services • A subdivision consent, is required for all types of subdivision and will include an Assessment of Environmental Effects

• Site works are then undertaken to form access, building platforms and to install infrastructure • On completion of those works s.224c Certification is obtained from the Council • The Land Transfer Survey can then be completed and new titles sought.

Derek Wood, principal surveyor at Envivo Engineering, Surveying & Planning, says, “Christchurch Council has made allowance for more infill subdivisions, particularly if an

existing building has been condemned there’s more leeway to develop sites.

“There are some good opportunities to look at sites in new ways – to maximise the developments and ensure that we make the most of each property.”

For first time developers it can be daunting to review all the steps that need to be taken in order to subdivide. The most frequently asked question is ‘how long will it take me to subdivide?’ – followed swiftly by ‘how much will it cost?’

“Our teams are very responsive and can be on-site quickly, it’s our point of difference. Plus we offer comprehensive experience; over the last 18-years we have carried out over 1,000 subdivisions, and over 4,000 topographical surveys.

“We can help you assess whether you can subdivide your property, guide you through each step of the process and manage it smoothly for you.” CT Information provided courtesy of Envivo Ltd info@envivo.co.nz www.envivo.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

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INSTALLATION | RELOCATION | LOGISTICS Phone 021 828 373 | 984 Shands Rd, Prebbleton, Christchurch 7676 | wemovemachinery.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 37

Property | Real Estate

What to look for in a real estate agent 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.

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.

• Positive testimonials – 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.

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

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

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 Article by Wendy Alexander, acting chief executive at the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ).

Thinking of buying or selling? Call me today Clarence Monsanto Licensee Salesperson M. 027 868 8369 P. 0800 935 569 E. clarence.monsanto@raywhite.com A. 5/333 Harewood Rd, Bishopdale LICENSED REAA 2008

38 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Trusted and award winning service in Selwyn ‘Choose a job you love, and you never work a day in your life’ – Confucius.

importance of results, achieving the best in the shortest possible time and with the least amount of stress! The right agent will make all the difference to the result and the emotions felt following the transaction.

That’s precisely why many people in the Rolleston and Selwyn area choose Sarah as their preferred property consultant.

This is how Sarah Yeates feels about her career in the Real Estate industry that she chose back in 2014.

The 40-year-old has always had a strong passion for the field. She was interested in the market from a young age, stemming from her parents’ immense pride in their family homes and the residential and commercial investments they pursued. It was an inspiration to her, and as a young child, she was scouring the local property ads in the weekend paper on her dad’s knee with dreams of her own.

Growing up in Ashburton on a lifestyle block gave Sarah a great sense of the outdoors and a genuine grassroots upbringing. With tree hut and teepee building, trampolining over the sprinkler in the summer months, and making tunnels through the ‘Old man’s beard’ to the Ashburton River, life was always an adventure, the journey that you created and a great challenge!

Business ventures saw Sarah’s parents and siblings move to Christchurch. For her high school years, she attended Lincoln High, and so began her connection to the greater Selwyn area, personally involved in schooling and sports. Sarah settled in Rolleston with her own young family in 2007 and is actively involved in the sporting and schooling fraternities. Sarah loves Rolleston and the wider Selwyn area and is proud to be part of the framework that promotes it.

Sarah focuses on achieving the very best outcome for her clients’ property sales. She does that through an engaging and effective communication style that is just the right mix of personable and professional. Her strength in bringing people together centres on understanding and relating to clients’ needs, her ability to guide buyers and give them confidence, and an astute capacity to negotiate.

“It’s an absolute privilege to be an advocate of property in our incredible district.

Having grown up here and raised a family of my own, I know first-hand what a safe and supportive community spirit there is. The schools are fantastic, we have some amazing cultural and sporting facilities, and these are only getting better. Exciting times now and ahead of us!”

aren’t so much about the property as such; it’s about people.

With a strong background and previous experience in legal and the insurance fields, Sarah has an excellent understanding of the essential fundamentals of most property transactions.

Every client (vendor), and customer (buyer), that Sarah meets has their own story to tell, and Sarah loves to hear them!

From anxious first home buyers and sellers who need extra guidance, to those clients looking to downsize, who have lived in the same home for many years, raising their families and creating incredible memories in the only home they have owned; it’s an absolute pleasure and honour for Sarah to be invited into such a crucial part of their real estate journey.

But that’s where the ‘transactional’ aspect of her role ends. Real estate property sales

While Sarah thrives on the people aspect of Real Estate, she also acknowledges the

She has a genuine warmth about her that not only makes your home sale enjoyable and affirms she’s working hard for you but also the confidence that she will get the job done and have a great connection with buyers. Clients find Sarah’s 100% commitment to them and the sale of their property unwavering, and the results speak for themselves.

Sarah has achieved many accolades over her 7-year career, including her first award, the ‘Rising Star,’ and a coveted position in the South Island Top 10 between 2018 and 2020.

However, she is most proud of the Customer Service awards achieved by receiving the most consistent 10/10 feedback from clients and customers over the years – she must be doing something right!

Thinking of selling?

Call Sarah today Testimonials “Sarah was great. She helped us get the best result possible for the sale of our house. She walked us thru each step and was always available. Also willing to answer questions despite how many times they were asked and offered great advice. Would highly recommend Sarah for her professionalism, knowing she will go out of her way for her clients.”

– Brendan and Vicki Shah

“The whole process was such a breeze, Sarah was very down to earth, helpful and nothing was a problem. Would 100 percent recommend her and I would use her again.”

“Sarah Yeates provided fantastic service from day 1, her approach and tireless support ensured I made a fantastic purchase with ease. I would recommend her to anyone looking to buy or sell a house.”

– Luci & Wayne Jones

– Darrin Curtis

Sarah Yeates Residential Sales Consultant M 027 447 2719 | E sarahy@pb.co.nz

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Manufacturing | Southern Engineering Solutions

Engineering solutions from start to finish Since 2002, Southern Engineering Solutions have been manufacturing machinery for food processing, the meat industry and more.

Southern Engineering Solutions boasts a large array of equipment and services they can provide.

Managing director Warren Rice says they’ve got a unique standing in the industry where they can do the entire project, from the initial concept to the finished product.

This is due to their range of specialists within the company. From a full design team to stateof-the-art premises, Southern Engineering Solutions has worked on a large variety of projects. “This saves us a lot of money in the end,” Warren says.

Southern Engineering Solutions works with a lot of big brands in New Zealand.

From Fonteera to Silver Fern to Alliance and Kraft Heinz, Warren says they provide a lot of their machinery for processing and exporting goods.

The company is developing equipment to remove ACC related injuries like strains too.

Among these continuing projects are their chiller units. Warren says they’ve just completed six large chillers for a client and are in the process of making two more at the moment.

The company has developed specialist equipment including the SES Round Knife for cutting lamb carcasses, the SES Twin Tray Medical Gurney and a Stillage loading and unloading system for meat cartons.

Warren says they’ve got a lot of work in Australia at the moment.

“We were initially worried that Covid was going to hamper us but in saying that, we just got two big projects shipped off to Victoria.”

He says they’re starting to look more into robotics and one of their Australian projects has been a rotary table for pellet distribution.

It has a robot in the centre that reduces the need for having people in the factory. “It’s been very successful,” Warren says.

Another project involving robotics is a new store which will be entirely mechanised and have no need for people on the factory floor.

“It’s designed so there’s no carton damage, especially by human hands,” Warren says.

“It’ll also help improve getting the cartons where they need to go quickly and efficiently.” Warren says they’re hoping to get the first one going next year.

While Southern Engineering Solutions is a well-established company, Warren says they’re looking to expand in the future.

“We’ve done work in the UK before so that’s an avenue we can pursue.”

Warren says they’re also working on their digital market as it’s a bit of an untapped resource.

“We need to get out there and let people know what we do.”

INNOVATION ALL THE WAY FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION A long-time provider to New Zealand’s highly developed meat and food processing industries, Southern Engineering Solutions is an industry leader delivering innovative solutions to these critical industries.

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Southern Engineering Solutions head office, design office, and fabrication and testing workshop, are located at 496 Waterloo Rd, Islington, Christchurch. CT Southern Engineering Solutions 496 Waterloo Rd Islington Christchurch (03) 348 9744 www.sesltd.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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Agribusiness | Real Milk Timaru

A tale of two herds In the paddocks of Stu and Andrea Weir’s farm there is living heritage munching on the grass.

Some of their 220-strong herd of Holstein Fresian cows (aka the black and white ones) are the great-great-great-great-great-greatgreat-great granddaughters of the original herd established at the family farm, on the outskirts of Timaru, in the 1940s.

A smart operator knows when to embrace progress and what traditions to hold on to.

The Weirs have struck a balance in their milk production, at Glenwillow Farm, which caters for both the processed retail milk market and for a niche unpasteurised, non homogenised clientele.

Real Milk Timaru is now in its seventh year in business, which came about after the Weirs realised they needed to make their raw milk sales to the public more formal.

“All the good bacteria that helps with digestion.

It’s also the taste. I’ve just picked up a new customer this week who’s an ex-dairy farmer. He told me it was great to have proper milk again.”

“

Our customers are what keeps driving us. They’re so grateful for the opportunity to get this milk.

- Real Milk Timaru owner and operator, Stu Weir

”

Food safety

People of a certain age will know what whe means.

Real Milk Timaru sends milk samples once a week for testing at a lab in Christchurch.

Milk in glass bottles with a silver foil top, that when peeled off revealed an inch (yes, premetric) of solid cream in the neck.

They test for: plant hygiene (aerobic plate count), e.coli, salmonella, listeria, campylobacter, staphylococci, coliforms, and inhibitory substances.

“Because of our proximity to Timaru, people would come out for a drive to the country with a container to get milk from us, they’d leave cash in the mailbox. It grew to a point where we knew we had to tidy things up,” Stu says.

Theoretically, you were meant to shake the bottle to disperse the cream before opening.

This didn’t always happen when there were kids around who wanted to scoff the cream or dad wanted to put it on his porridge.

He puts this growth in demand down to people wanting to get back-to-basics with their food.

Stu says people understand the benefits of unpasteurised, non homogenised milk.

This nostalgia combined with the demand because of the growing consciousness of the health benefits of raw milk, led to the Weirs upping the ante. They came across

Takaka-based Village Milk and signed up with them as a franchisee.

In 2016, after two years of doing that, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) made regulatory changes. This meant the franchisees had to disband and register as individual producers.

Setting up from scratch, under the MPI regulations, is considered a huge and daunting task by many milk producers.

Fortunately for Stu and Andrea Weir, they had already set up through Village Milk, so they already had most of the MPI processes in place.

Stu says the transition to becoming independent was “pretty much seamless”.

Real Milk Timaru’s set-up costs were about $100, 000. This went towards buying Italianmade dispenser units and one-litre, screw-top glass bottles.

As the demand for the milk has grown, the company has invested further capital into building a new dairy shed with a retail shop attached.

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44 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Agribusiness | Real Milk Timaru

At a Glance | Contrax Central

Moving earth big or small

They have a driver who delivers 100 litres a day, four days a week. This covers the Timaru urban area, Waimate to Fairlie/Tekapo (West), Pleasant Point/Temuka/Geraldine (East).

Stu says there’s no set boundary, but they wouldn’t go over the Rangitata River as there’s another supplier in the area.

“Aside from that, if there’s enough customer interest, we’ll travel.”

Stu says the swap-a-bottle system is simple and works well for their shop customers and those who get deliveries. The customers buy their bottles, which they return to be sterilised at the plant and refilled.

The farmgate shop sells 100-120 litres a day and is self-serve 24/7.

The story of Glenwillow is a tale of two herds, those milked for Fonterra and those for the raw milk business, kept completely separate.

There are 15 cows dedicated to producing milk for the shop to ensure the consistency of the milk.

Andrea is in the milking shed with her assistants who carry out a strict hygiene regimen. The teats are hand washed and dried, then sprayed with iodine, inspected before the cups go on, then milked into a separate tank, which flows into the vending machine.

Once those cows are disconnected from the machine it’s the turn of the Fonterra herd.

Glenwillow was the first farm in the central South Island to provide raw milk and, according to Stu, is now one of the longestserving. The raw milk now accounts for 15 percent of the farm’s overall business.

How it works Step 1 Make sure you have your reusable glass bottles. These can be purchased for $4 each online or may be purchased at the vending machine at 22 Fariview Road.

Step 2 Place your online order for refills and select the day you’d like your milk delivered. Orders must be placed before 3pm for same day deliveries.

Step 3 Ensure you have your empty Real Milk glass bottles out ready for replacement between 5.30pm and 6pm on your chosen day.

Step 4 Enjoy your fresh milk and remember to put your empty bottles out for your next delivery.

“Our customers are what keeps driving us.

They’re so grateful for the opportunity to get this milk.”

Despite the success of Real Milk Timaru, Stu and Andrea have no plans to get into cheesemaking.

“When customers ask I tell them to buy the milk and make their own,” laughs Stu. CT Real Milk Timaru farmgate shop 22 Fairview Road RD 2 Timaru ​027 221 4552 info@realmilktimaru.co.nz www.realmilktimaru.co.nz

Contrax has been in central Otago for almost 20 years and are almost locals.

“The work sites around here are stunning and we get to go up there and help them.”

Based in Cromwell, John Marnane, his eldest son Johnny and wife Robyn provide a huge range of civil earth moving services.

“We’re adaptable, versatile and practical so we’re capable of taking on most earthworks projects,” she says.

Robyn says they’ve got everything from little diggers to massive bulldozers. They work on a wide range of projects.

Contrax also has their own mechanic on site.

Robyn says they feel pretty much like locals these days and although they’re a small company, they’ve got quite the reputation and name in Cromwell.

“We can undertake most earthmoving projects including, land development for things like vineyards and orchards, creating subdivisions, underpasses and water reservoirs. We often work alongside other contractors depending on the scope of the project.”

Some of their recent projects have been an underpass under the busy State Highway 6 between Cromwell and Wanaka, which involved a double lane diversion road, preparation for sealing Ballantyne Road near Wanaka and converting farm land for a large cherry orchard development about 15 minutes out of Cromwell.

Having the appropriate machinery to undertake such projects means clients have a “one stop shop” from start to finish for their projects as Contrax offers project management as well.

“Where we’re based, it’s such a condensed area,” Robyn says.

She says they’re a very diverse company in that they can generally complete many facets of a job.

Contrax’s main services include horticultural development, land conversion and development, site preparation and landscaping, subdivisions, roading, water reservoirs. The company is committed to the health and safety of their staff and has achieved site wise gold status. CT Contrax Central 240 Mt Pisa Road Cromwell 03 455 0455 contact@contraxcentral.co.nz www.contraxcentral.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

CROMWELL TYRES

“It’s amazing the variety and versatility of land use in this little valley, and the money this little valley can pump out is incredible for the district.”

Robyn reckons it’s a pretty fantastic place to work. It’s not just the views or the range of work either.

Robyn says they’ve got an excellent team of around 15 staff. “They’ve got their families who have made a life here.”

Robyn says they’ve got a lot of skills between them. John, the operating director, knows earthmoving inside out as he has had a lifetime of experience which in turn has rubbed off on to Johnny their eldest son. They make a great team.

Robyn says when they first moved to the area back in 2001 it was a very different landscape.

“We’ve been very lucky to be involved in the — Advertising Feature changes,” she says.

Call in today to experience our famous 5 Star Service.

Our aim is to provide the best value for your money without sacrificing safety or performance.

For 24/7 support, call us on

03 445 0746 Email: accounts@cromwelltyres.co.nz www.tyregeneral.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 45

Manufacturing | Wests Cordials

Bringing historic flavour to the modern day

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Wests Cordials is the oldest continuous manufacturer of cordials and soft drinks in New Zealand.

For 145 years, Wests Cordials has been the pioneers of soft drinks in New Zealand.

Formed in 1876 by the West family, it’s proven to be a hit. It began with Tom West brewing brightly coloured drinks in hand crafted bottles at his grocery store.

They oversaw many modern upgrades including making the shift from glass bottles to plastic.

Alf and Kay Loretan took over in 2007 and continued bringing Wests into the modern day.

Finally, in July of this year, Angela and Craig McFarlane bought Wests.

Dunedin-born Angela says she and her family had been living in Asia for eight years and decided they wanted to raise their three sons back home in New Zealand. They also wanted to be based in Dunedin as they had lots of family there.

After a while, as locals got a taste for the drinks, the company was able to expand and Tom’s sons built a factory in 1914.

“Wests was for sale and we saw it was a really solid business. It had gone through two world wars and was still going so it’s a really continuous business,” Angela says.

Located on the corner of Bay View Road and Moreau Street in Dunedin, this would be the beginning of a legacy of brewing. The business still operates out of this location today.

Her husband Craig had worked in a plastics factory overseas so that bit of background helped too. “We haven’t had any regrets in buying it either.”

In 1930, the business was handed over to three brothers - relatives of the West family - who expanded it to its current size.

Some staff have been with Wests for around forty years and Angela says this has been a huge help.

In 1966, the business left the West family and was renamed Wests Cordials Ltd. Mr & Mrs McKinstry in partnership with Mr Colin Colquhoun added a range of wines to the cordials in the shop.

“They hold all that valuable knowledge and history. You can’t learn it all in the four weeks of transition so you learn it in bits and pieces from the staff.”

In 1976, Wests was run by William Mosely who then sold it to Lance and Ray Pearson in 1987.

Angela says they feel like caretakers of the brand. “We need to look after it and progress it correctly.

for great flavours.

“People know and like the traditional flavours and they come back for those. We want to keep those flavours the same.”

Wests is still making their famed pineapple and pear drink - a flavour that no one else makes. Angela says they’re also making sure to retain traditions as well as flavours.

“People have childhood memories of coming to the shop and filling up flagons of drink to

While there’s not any big plans for the company yet, Angela says they’ve got some experimental ideas in the pipeline.

Angela is hinting at a new bottle design, possibly to be unveiled during the 150th celebrations. Currently the main idea is making sure Wests stays a cornerstone of local drinking habits.

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At a Glance | GJ Gardner Homes

Manufacturing | Wests Cordials

GJ Gardner Homes

- a solid name in housing

“

People know and like the traditional flavours and they come back for those. We want to keep those flavours the same.

”

- Wests Cordials co-owner Angela McFarlane

“We want to expand the product range and keep the brand going,” she says. “We’re still figuring things out though.”

The main idea is to take the Wests Cordials brand to the upper South Island and finally breach the North Island.

Of course Covid hasn’t been a good friend throughout the transition period of purchasing an entire company. Angela says they’re lucky though.

“We were seen as an essential service because we supply to major brands.”

Wests Cordials provides soft drinks, cordials, milkshape syrups, slushy syrups, soda syrups and postmixes. They also offer sugar free options.

You can purchase all these items from their website in quantities from a singular bottle up to 10 boxes containing 120 bottles.

All this and more can be found on their website: www.wests.co.nz.

GJ Gardner Homes isn’t exactly a new name in the housing business. With nearly 40 years of experience under their belt, they’re a well-established company.

“I think people realised after the first lockdown that they can work remotely so now they’re looking for a quiet life on the coast.”

She says that they’re normally looking at six to seven builds a year but currently, the number is closer to twenty that have signed up.

GJ Gardner Homes is able to get a home project done from start to finish. Holly says they work with the customer from the get go, figuring out the design for the house, the budget and But the West Coast operation is starting to make everything in between.

While they were affected a little bit due to the a name for itself. Last year, the company finally “Often the customer already has an idea of what general public being unable to contribute as joined the Master Builders’ Association and this they want but if they don’t, we can guide them in much and their supply to pubs being impacted, year entered a small home on the West Coast in the direction they’re hoping for,” Holly says.

Angela says they got off light in comparison to the House of the Year competition.

“Pretty much anything is possible so we can other companies in the country. CT While they didn’t take out the supreme award, often achieve what people are after.” they did win a gold medal which, according Pricing can differ between each franchise to Holly Oldham, is pretty much unheard of Wests Cordials but GJ Gardner offers express range pricing for a first entry. “We thought it was a good 135 Bay View Road nationwide. If you’re looking for a custom build opportunity to enter and we got gold!” she says.

Dunedin be prepared for things to get a bit more pricey.

(03) 455 4448 The house was a two-bedroom home that Holly Roof lines and cladding can change the price of sales@wests.co.nz a build substantially. CT says was designed to show you can still have www.wests.co.nz plenty of space to entertain in a small home.

GJ Gardner Homes — Advertising Feature “We’re getting a lot of retirees moving to the West Coast office coast who want to downsize from their four199 Hight Street bedroom homes. So this was a good way to Greymouth show the idea can work,” Holly says.

(03) 768 9990 westcoast@gjgardner.co.nz She says work in the West Coast is picking www.gjgardner.co.nz up dramatically, despite Covid. In fact, Holly reckons Covid may have helped the situation.

— Advertising Feature You can also contact the sales team at sales@west.co.nz, or via phone 0800 101 610

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Destinations | West Coast

West Coast uncovered: one coast, six ways to discover

By Shona Cobham

Tantalisingly close, but a world apart in other ways, the West Coast beckons as a holiday destination.

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.

One coastline extending from Buller to Haast over more than 500kms and sandwiched between mountains and sea, the West Coast covers almost nine percent of New Zealand’s total land area — a diverse region of wonders, landscapes, and experiences.

Not familiar with this naturally spectacular area? There’s no better time than now to discover what sets this place apart from the rest of New Zealand. Based on six significant natural icons, there are six different sides of the Coast people may not be aware of, and that’s before they factor in meeting the locals.

Oparara Arches: Off the beaten track There’s only one road into Karamea and there’s definitely a final frontier feel about this place.

Head North from Westport and as visitors approach the end of Highway 67, they’ll find a world that feels primeval both above and below ground.

epic backcountry adventure and an insight into the challenges faced by early pioneers.

A more family-friendly activity is the short but scenic Cape Foulwind Walkway. See the westerly swells pounding the rugged coastline and spot New Zealand fur seals all year round.

South of Westport, historic Charleston offers caving adventures of a different kind. A rainforest train drops visitors and their tubes at the entrance of a giant cave system, ready to float through glow-worm caves before tumbling down some gentle rapids on the Waitakere River.

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes: Blow those cobwebs away While Pancake Rocks and Blowholes is the West Coast’s most visited attraction, there are many unmissable highlights on this part of the

coast — from short walks to a Great Walk in a national park, to lonely beaches and little towns bubbling with history and amazing stories.

blowholes perform a mesmerising spectacle bursting up through the pancaked limestone formations.

Let’s start with the Great Coast Road proclaimed by Australia’s major travel guide Lonely Planet as one of the planet’s best scenic drives. Running between Westport and Greymouth, this 100km of spectacular ocean views takes about 90 minutes to drive without allowing for photo stops and visits along the way.

When people can tear themselves away, just across the road there’s the Paparoa National Park visitor centre.

About halfway along this route, there’s much more to Punakaiki than a quick stop at the rocks.

It’s the end of the Paparoa Track — our newest Great Walk — but visitors don’t have to do a multi-day hike to experience Paparoa. Wander in a rainforest of nikau palms or a short 30-minute forest walk (1.4km / 30 mins) to a stunning beach on the nearby Truman Track.

On the waterside, there’s more gentle exploring. Try kayaking on the Punakaiki lagoon, paddle boarding on the Pororari River, The bustling little tourism resort has a great collection of nice and quirky bed and breakfasts, or a nostalgic horse and wagon tour, following eco-stays, cabins, and holiday homes for hire, a in the footsteps of early pioneers across an unspoiled sandy beach. beautiful waterside hotel, and a campsite.

Staying over is recommended as it’s worth timing your visit for high tide when the

Continues on page 50 >

About a 45-minute drive from Karamea, the moss-covered, dense forest of the Kahurangi National Park gives way to the Oparara Basin and its 35 million-year-old cave system.

The largest and most iconic feature, the Oparara Arch, can be accessed via a short, well-formed track. But to see the sub-fossil remains of nine types of moa and giant hokioi (Haast’s eagle) visit the Honeycomb Hill Caves.

The now-extinct birds fell through holes in the limestone cave ceilings, creating the intact fossilised skeletons there today. To protect this special taonga, access is by a guided tour only (book at the Karamea Information Centre).

An alternative route into the area is via The Old Ghost Road, a long-forgotten gold miners’ road revived as an 85km mountain biking and tramping trail from Lyell to Seddonville. It’s an 48 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Oparara Arches.

Destinations | West Coast

Free Recruitment Services and Industry Training Support on The West Coast The West Coast’s regional employment and training scheme Upskill was launched in July 2020. Upskill was launched to support a robust and resilient economy that can respond to and recover from the economic impacts of COVID-19.

The Upskill project is managed through Development West Coast (DWC) and is funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's Provincial Development Unit. The team consists of project manager Tania Washer, employment and training consultant Hannah Bailey, and recruitment coordinator Alice Moynihan.

The team is experienced in recruitment, staff training, and people development.

The Upskill team works with employers, employees, and job seekers to create sustainable employment opportunities and develop current staff to keep people and businesses in the region. The team helps to attract new talent from other parts of New Zealand by providing free recruitment support and job advertising services. For people or businesses looking to move to the region, the support from the team can make the move a lot easier!

“Our team has been flat out working with all kinds of businesses across the West Coast from Karamea to Haast, but also with new businesses looking to set up in the region,” says project manager Tania Washer.

“Our list of job opportunities is diverse; from tradies to hospitality workers, to environmental specialists to a variety of apprenticeship and entry-level roles; our region needs workers at all skill levels, in all job types.

We support the industry training of new candidates with funding to cover direct training costs, which provides more opportunities for people to enter new job types. It has been good to build a strong relationship with the industry-training sector of Tai Poutini Polytechnic, as well as bringing in specialist industry trainers as required to the region..

Staff from Hokitika Dental

Key Stats:

DWC's economic development manager Jo Birnie says, "the Upskill team are making a great impact and assisting businesses to rethink their staffing development for the growth and retention of their business."

700+ Job seekers have registered with

Upskill West Coast

In central Hokitika, the long-awaited dental surgery has been open for almost a year.

The new purpose-built dental surgery is revolutionary as it offers services with the most updated equipment. The founder of Hoki Dental Angelo Ioanides worked with DWC's Upskill team to recruit new staff for the team.

220 + Candidates have been helped into

new jobs via Upskill since July 2020

to train and upskill our team, there’s no way we would have been able to employ a full complement of employees from the outset.”

Angelo says, “Upskill West Coast have been a God-send. Not only were the team instrumental in helping us find and recruit four full-time team members for our brand new dental surgery, without their subsequent funding

To get in touch with the Upskill team go to their website: www.dwc.org.nz/upskill or follow them on Facebook: https://westcoast.co.nz/business/businesssupport/upskill-west-coast/.

160+ West Coast businesses have

registered with Upskill West Coast

Supporting all Businesses and Job Seekers living in, or looking to move to The West Coast Region Our services are free, funded by The Provincial Growth Fund.

• Funding to Support Industry Recognized Training • Professional Recruitment & Selection Services

Call Project Manager Tania Washer: 027 468 7681 or Email: upskill@dwc.org.nz

www.westcoast.co.nz/business/business-support/upskill-west-coast www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 49

Destinations | West Coast Lake Brunner / Moana: All aboard Stay a day or stay a while, tranquil Lake Brunner and the tiny settlement of Moana are more than just a scenic stop on a spectacular East-West train journey.

Lake Brunner’s deep waters are home to so many wild brown trout, they’re said to die of old age. Fishing season is year-round with boats and guides available for hire. Photographers will love how the snow-capped Southern Alps are mirrored on the water’s inky surface.

In summer the lake is a great place to kayak, swim or just relax on sandy beaches sandwiched between pristine waters and ancient forests.

Otherwise, explore lakeside trails such as Bain Bay Track and the short but photogenic Carew Falls Track. On a clear day, the hike up Mount French is rewarded with views of Lake Brunner and the Southern Alps.

When visitors aren’t passing away the time on or by the water, there’s plenty to do in the surrounding area. Brunner Mine Memorial tells the significant story of what was once New Zealand’s largest coal mine and, sadly, the site of our worst mining disaster.

For a more light-hearted look into the Coast’s pioneering history, replica gold-rush village Shantytown offers a hands-on history lesson complete with steam train rides and goldpanning. For muddy quad-bike missions into the West Coast rainforest, try On Yer Bike Adventures in Greymouth.

Drive to Lake Brunner, but why not arrive on one of the world’s greatest train journeys instead. Sit back and enjoy the view as the TranzAlpine traverses’ plains, braided rivers, and mountain passes before arriving at Moana’s scenic station.

Lake Matheson, Fox Glacier.

Glacier Country: Outstanding adventures

stunning views from the glaciers and Aoraki Mount Cook to the Tasman Sea.

A region of superlatives New Zealand’s highest mountains, longest glaciers, and tallest forests.

The conservation continues in Franz Josef township, where visitors can see Rowi kiwi at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, and hear how they’re given a life-saving helping hand.

In Glacier Country, people can venture into some of New Zealand’s most untouched nature during the day and relax in luxury at night.

Out of more than 60 in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, twin glaciers Fox and Franz Josef are the most accessible.

Visitors can spot the creeping ice flows from local look-out points, but for a truly overwhelming experience, take a guided helihike on the luminous blue ice.

Lake Brunner.

Central Suites

Central Suites are a 5 min walk from the main CBD of Hokitika. We have some fantastic shops, bars and cafes.

Walking distance from the beach and Sunset Point.

2 GUESTS · 1 BEDROOM · 1 BED · 1 BATH

Donna Baird 027 567 7139 Scott Baird 027 441 1762 Email centralsuites75@gmail.com 50 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Been building up the courage to skydive, why not do it there? Carbon-zero and awarded for their community commitment, Skydive Franz Josef and Fox Glacier offer jumps with

They can be spotted in the wild near Okarito, where rare birds outnumber people. Take a kayak tour of the peaceful Okarito Lagoon and look out for the unique Kotuku (white heron).

If the weather isn’t the best for a scenic flight, there are lots of other ways to experience nature. The lush greens of the rainforest come alive in the mist, best experienced on one of the many short walks and day hikes in the area.

Another great rainy day (or any day) activity is a soothing soak under the forest canopy. Waiho offers rustic, wood-fired tubs, and guests at the Franz Josef Rainforest Retreat can enjoy spagazing from a private tree-lined deck.

Central Suites Units are very quiet with double glazing and Fully refurbished in July 2021 Our new insulation. You will enjoy a quiet ambience.

Secure parking. Located in Central Hokitika we these self contained studio are a 2min walk from the main CBD. units are not just modern but also spacious, warm and finished with the highest We had a lovely stay at quality of furnishings.

Central Suites with our The large kitchen space is fully equipped with everything you will need while staying with us. A free standing bath is a feature in the fully tiled bathroom with underfloor heating.

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Destinations | West Coast

Hokitika Gorge swingbridge.

Hokitika Gorge: Find your cool in Hokitika No two ways about it, Hokitika deserves the title of the Coast’s coolest little town.

There’s a distinct arty vibe to the Pounamu capital from the iconic driftwood artworks on the beach to the jade carving workshops in town.

There’s even a glassblowing studio, a lively food culture (unsurprisingly in the town of the Wildfoods Festival), and a range of accommodation.

Photographers love the Hokitika Gorge for its stunning turquoise blue waters contrasted against lush green bush and rocky white limestone banks.

Half an hour drive from town towards the hills, the short trail is a gentle, accessible walk with a spectacular pedestrian swing bridge across the gorge.

Languid lakes and wetlands are a constant feature of the landscape around Hokitika.

Serene Lake Kaniere is often referred to as the Coast’s most beautiful lake, eclipsing many other stunning lakes and waterways.

Surrounded on three sides by mountains, it’s popular for camping, boating, fishing, mountain biking, and several shorter walking trails.

Further South, Lake Mahinapua is a shallow inland lagoon, sacred to Maori, surrounded by forests, and part of a network of waterways through the wetlands.

For more active explorers, the West Coast Wilderness Trail (a 132km, four-day ride from Greymouth to Ross via Kumara and Hokitika) is an easy, mostly off-road cycle trail that follows a superb scenic route from the coast to the alps.

The trail is good for day rides, has great accommodation nearby and refueling stops along the way.

In pioneer days, these waterways provided access across the swampy landscape, but now people can explore them by boat, kayak, or climb up into the ancient rainforest canopy via a series of walkways.

West Coast Cycle & Tours Our bespoke bike hire and tour business also offers shuttles and luggage transfers.

West Coast Cycle & Tours can provide you with trail bikes, E bikes or bring your own bikes and we can shuttle you and your bikes.

Born and bred Coasters Scott and Donna are the “locals” in Hokitika, we know the West Coast Wilderness Trail like the back of our hands. From the weather patterns, to the history of the coast & the trail areas we can answer your questions. We will let you in on a few secrets as well!

You can be guaranteed exceptional customer service as well as high quality bikes and gear.

We offer 24 hour support when you book with us. If you need us to help whether it be on the trail or an emergency to get you off the trail or home quickly we will help.

Wow!! Donna & family were INCREDIBLE! They went above and beyond to help our group have the best time on the West Coast Wilderness Trail.

They provided us with great

West Coast Cycle & Tours Our Bespoke family business offers bike hire, trail info, tour planning, shuttles and luggage transfers.

We can provide you with bikes or bring your own for us to shuttle.

Logistical problems we will work it out. We take the guesswork out of “how will I get there & back” “who is going to drive” or “how are we going to organise that”.

Expect friendly and professional service. Our passion is delivering the best customer service on the WEST COAST and provide the most memorable, unique experiences from start to finish.

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Contact us today!

027 567 7139

75 Fitzherbert street, Hokitika 7810, New Zealand

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 51

Destinations | West Coast

“

Watch out for wandering rare Fiordland crested penguins and a nursery of tiny Hector’s dolphins in the waves.

Haast World Heritage Area: Into the wilderness A little town on the edge of wilderness, Haast is the western gateway into Te Wahipounamu South West New Zealand — the vast UNESCO World Heritage area, encompassing the four southern national parks, home to rare marine and alpine wildlife and recognised as one of the world’s most outstanding natural treasures.

”

An outdoor enthusiast’s playground, Haast is a hub for adventures from walking and tramping to wildlife encounters, photography, boating, fishing, and hunting, all immersed in unforgettable landscapes.

For visitors, a scenic heli-flight or a jet boat river journey from the coast into the mountains is the best way to learn about and appreciate the grandeur of this wilderness. CT

Certain parts of this wild coast are more accessible than others.

Travelling South from Fox Glacier, there are a series of tiny settlements and scenic spots where short walks reveal lakes and deserted beaches still shrouded with towering stands of native forest.

For the intrepid, there are longer trails and multi-day tramps (such as the Copland Track) into the mountains.

Beyond Haast, the coastal road continues South, a 32km scenic panorama of wild, rugged beaches, dunes, lakes, and wetlands, with the soaring backdrop of the Southern Alps.

Getting there

Jackson Bay, Haast.

Greymouth is three hours by road from Christchurch, under four hours from Nelson; from Greymouth, Hokitika is 30 mins (South), or 90 mins (North) to Westport; Hokitika to Franz Josef / Fox is 1 hour 45 mins; Fox to Haast is 1 hour 30 mins.

Alternatively, fly into Hokitika Airport or take the TranzAlpine scenic train from Christchurch to Greymouth.

The road ends at the little working fishing port of Jackson Bay where people can lunch on fresh To find out more visit: seafood at a quirky little caravan diner, right Destination Westland - Hokitika ISite beside a beautiful beach.

(03) 755 6166 Watch out for wandering rare Fiordland crested enquiries@hokitikainfo.co.nz penguins and a nursery of tiny Hector’s dolphins www.hokitikainfo.co.nz — Advertising Feature in the waves.

Westport

OPEN HOURS

MONDAY - SUNDAY 8.00AM - 8.30PM 244 PALMERSTON STREET, WESTPORT TEL: (03) 789 7669 FAX:(03) 789 7048 www.newworld.co.nz 52 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Fantail Falls.

FUEL & MOORE WARRANT OF FITNESS FULL WORKSHOP REPAIRS TYRE CHECK DIAGNOSTIC CHECKS VEHICLE BREAKDOWNS SMALL ENGINEERING WORK TRAILER HIRE KINDLING COAL 20kg bags

PH 03 732 8465 13 Sinnamon Street, Reefton

*Conditions apply. Visit: www.tpp.ac.nz/conditions

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 53

Destinations | West Coast

It’s Time You Made The Move There are two types of change. Small change and life changing change. If the last 18 months has taught us anything it’s about the latter...the need to be resilient, the need to adapt and the need to change for the better by working to live not living to work.

So here’s an idea....have you considered change involving an easier pace in life, wide open spaces, green hills, dense bush and more outdoor activities than you can poke a stick at.

Judging by the huge growth in the number of buyers pursuing real estate on the West Coast it seems more and more people are seeking an idyllic lifestyle change.

That lifestyle change also comes with more spare change as buyers snap up real estate where they are getting far more for far less, providing further opportunity for entire families to get ahead.

Let me give you an example - In September this year a 1932, three bedroom bungalow in mid – suburbia Christchurch on a 647m² section sold at auction by Harcourts for $1,300,000.00.

In the very same month on the opposite side of the Island in Hokitika, Harcourts West Coast sold not one but two beautiful homes on one title of 3127m². One of the homes was the four bedroom two bathroom family home, whilst the other was a modern fully furnished three bedroom home used as a BNB, both enjoying stunning elevated ocean and mountain views for the much bigger bang for your buck price of $910,000.00.

As the penny drops for a growing number of buyers so do the comments like “why didn’t we do this earlier”, “why didn’t we know what this region has to offer” and a personal favourite “sometimes you just have to embrace change - look what it can bring you” So, what can it bring you? A great place to raise a family where you can do so much more for less. A place where children can grow up surrounded by green grass and nature right on the doorstep rather than a concrete jungle.

54 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

To wake with the sound of the sea or birdsong rather than a cacophony of sirens, traffic and industrial noise and to end the day with the most phenomenal sunsets you will ever see.

Whether rural, semi-rural or based in one of the region’s progressive townships, Coasters enjoy a relaxed, low pressure lifestyle. A purpose-built sporting hub located in the heart of Greymouth is the newly opened Westland Recreation Centre offering indoor swimming pools, hydroslides, spa, sauna, gym, group fitness classes and basketball courts.

For the adventurous there are so many options with easy access to tramping, hunting,

kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, fishing adventures and watersports on our many Lakes, while the spectacular Southern Alps are just 50 kilometres away.

Speaking of distance, the Coast’s largest town, Greymouth, is only a half hour drive from Hokitika, and one and a half hours drive from Westport. You can reach the eastern side of the country in just three hours by car, but we also have daily flights from Hokitika to Christchurch and Westport to Wellington, providing easy access to other domestic and international connections.

Why would you really want to leave the Coast?

Tourists flock to our region for the glaciers, ‘Pancake Rocks’ and wild, unspoiled beauty.

As they travel our unique 600km Coastline they experience quintessential New Zealand with a vast forest area, home to an abundance of native birds, plants and wildlife. Maybe take a drive or bike ride on our seaside Coastal highways that many outsiders rate as some of the best in the world.

And don’t be fooled by those who saddle the West Coast with rain because the Coast can boast spectacular days and you will find it’s sunnier than Auckland, not as windy as Wellington, and milder than Christchurch during winter.

So what’s left to think about? Think debt reduction. Think mortgage free. Think future focussed education. Think about the family.

Think about your next adventure. Think change.

Think Harcourts West Coast.

Moving? - Make The Call Harcourts West Coast has three offices Greymouth, Hokitika and Westport with a dedicated team all known for their individual or team results. We pride ourselves on our clients experiencing the best real estate service possible by getting to know you and all your requirements. We have the professional team or specialist for any Residential, Lifestyle, Rural, Commercial, Business, Investment, Holiday Home purchase or Property Management requirement.

Destinations | West Coast

Hokitika Wildfoods Festival: a taste of the wild Just about anything and everything is on the table for the annual Wildfoods Festival, New Zealand’s premier opportunity to taste indigenous wild foods.

Hokitika’s headline-grabbing Wildfoods Festival will be back for its 33rd edition on Saturday, 12 March, 2022, promising a feast of fantastic Kiwi headline acts served up alongside some of the country’s most outrageous gastronomic delights.

Often featured in international media, the quirky annual festival is the West Coast’s biggest day out, attracting thousands of out-of-towners and locals to Hokitika’s Cass Square, where food is the excuse for a lighthearted celebration of Coasters and their regional culture.

Top line entertainment for 2022 will feature Kiwi music icons Sir Dave Dobbyn and rock band ZED headlining the main stage, with singer-songwriter Greg Johnson and his band, and up-and-coming Cassie Henderson also performing.

While the menu for the latest festival is still being cooked up, around 50 stall-holders will be on the job to keep everyone fed and watered with an eclectic range of delicacies.

Highlights from previous years have included everything from the classic huhu grubs harvested from rotten logs and served either ‘au naturel’ or cooked on a barbecue, to Westcargots (local garden snails), mountain oysters (sheep testicles), jellied fish eye shots, bovine colostrum milkshakes, wasp larvae ice cream and gorse flower wine — and that’s just a few.

As with all things on the Coast, there’s a welcome and something for everyone. So, good news for those whose culinary curiosity is not quite up for the ultimate challenge, there are other more traditional offerings that typically include whitebait patties, seafood and venison, sandwiches, burgers, chips, wine and beer to wash it down with.

And this once essentially “meaty experience” now even goes so far as to embrace plantbased eating by encouraging stall holders to cater for vegetarian and vegan diets.

They’re all invited to provide a foraging element in their offering to highlight sustainable ingredients found and gathered in the natural environment.

The festival programme includes cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs and creative competitions. The most highly contested is the signature ‘Feral Fashion’ design competition — a wearable arts style contest modelled on the racing circuit’s ‘fashion in the field’ best dressed concept, where creative contestants forage in their surroundings, and create a wild alter-ego to wear to the festival.

The Wildfoods Festival takes place on Saturday, 12 March, 2022. Gates open 11am and close at 7pm. For more event information: https://wildfoods.co.nz/ Tickets are available online or at Hokitika iSite: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2022/ wildfoods-festival-2022/hokitika

Travel Tips: Visiting Hokitika Hokitika undoubtedly deserves the title of the Coast’s coolest little town. There’s a distinct arty vibe to the ‘pounamu capital’ from the iconic driftwood artworks on the beach to the jade carving workshops in town. There’s even a glassblowing studio, a lively food culture, and a range of accommodation from backpackers to campgrounds and a 5-star beachfront hotel. Contact the Hokitika i-SITE and secure your beds.

Out of town, photographers love the Hokitika Gorge for its stunning turquoise blue waters contrasted against lush green bush and rocky white limestone banks. A 30-minute drive from town towards the hills, the short trail is a gentle, accessible walk with a spectacular pedestrian swing bridge across the gorge.

Languid lakes and wetlands are a constant feature of the landscape around Hokitika.

56 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Serene Lake Kaniere is often referred to as the Coast’s most beautiful lake, eclipsing many other stunning lakes and waterways.

Surrounded on three sides by mountains, it’s popular for camping, boating, fishing, mountain biking, and several shorter walking trails.

Further south, Lake Mahinapua is a shallow inland lagoon, sacred to Maori, surrounded by forests and part of a network of waterways through the wetlands. In pioneer days, these provided access across the swampy landscape but now you can explore them by boat or kayak, or climb up into the ancient rainforest canopy via a series of walkways.

For more active explorers, the West Coast Wilderness Trail (a 132km, four-day ride from Greymouth to Ross via Kumara and Hokitika) is a grade 2 (easy), mostly off-road cycle trail that follows a superb scenic route from the coast to alps. It’s good for day rides as well, and there are great accommodation and refueling stops along the way.

Construction | Immigration

TEN REASONS TO MOVE TO BULLER! 1

ENVIABLE CLIMATE

2

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

3

IT'S SIMPLY BETTER IN BULLER!

Photo: Richard Rossiter

4 5 6

The Buller District is a great place to visit, play, and live. With an enviable climate, laid-back lifestyle, and a close knit community.

With so much construction and development going on we need workers.

RELAXED PACE

You won't find big city hustle and bustle here we keep it chilled at a relaxed pace.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

You can still buy a comfortable home for $300,000. There's also loads of land if you'd rather build.

GETTING AROUND

We don't know what traffic jams are, we don't even have traffic lights or parking wardens.

THE PEOPLE

It's all about community, we're pretty proud about how we watch out for each other.

7

UNTAMED WILDERNESS

8

SUPPORT FOR START-UP BUSINESSES

9 10

The great outdoors is at your doorstep. Fishing, rowing, kayaking, surfing, boating, mountain biking, hiking, walking – all just minutes away from wherever you are.

Development West Coast is ready and waiting to deliver support to start-up businesses.

KID FRIENDLY

Just like it used to be, kids are free to ride, roam, and explore, and loads of clubs and activities for them to get involved with.

PET FRIENDLY

Loads of beaches and parks to walk your fur baby or ride your horse on the beach.

PUNAKAIKI

Nestled at the foot of the Paparoa National Park is the small coastal town of Punakaiki.

Midway between Westport and Greymouth (an easy 40 minute drive), Punakaiki is one of the most visited conservation areas in New Zealand.

Pictured: Punakaiki, Pancake Rocks

The great outdoors is at your doorstep Punakaiki offers the opportunity to enjoy craft shops, café, and some amazing beachside accommodation.

One of the most popular attractions is the Punakaiki pancake rocks and blowholes walk. A short 20-minute loop walk, it is one of the most accessible tracks available and is suitable for wheelchairs and prams. The blowholes are most spectacular when the sea is rough, but the dramatic views of the rock systems and the township of Punakaiki are worth a visit even on the calmest of days.

KARAMEA

An hour and a half drive north from Westport is Karamea. A popular tourist destination, Karamea boasts the spectacular Oparara basin with its limestone arches and caves and the Kahurangi National Park with the famous Heaphy track. The close community of around 650 people supports a growing horticulture, dairy farming, and tourism industry. The area is packed with opportunity to experience the wonder of the environment. Walking, tramping, mountain biking, caving, fishing – it doesn't matter if you are looking to fill an hour or a week, the small community of Karamea welcomes travellers seeking the road less ordinary.

The Heaphy Track. Photo by: Richard Rossiter

REEFTON

An hours drive from Westport, Reefton is located at the heart of the magnificent Victoria Forest Park. Founded in the 1860s with the discovery of the nearby goldfields, Reefton became the first town in the southern hemisphere to have a public supply of electricity in 1888. The population of over 1,500 cherish the town's historic past and the township features many heritage buildings.

Reefton offers a raft of walks, historic sites, and mountain biking opportunities. If you don't feel like venturing off the beaten track, check out the Miners Hut on the main street for a real mining experience!

To explore more go to: www.bullerdc.govt.nz

EXPERIENCE

Unique Untamed

WILDERNESS

Why not explore your own backyard?

Plan to visit the Northern West Coast of the South Island – a stunning part of New Zealand that many visitors regret they did not plan to stay in longer. By making Westport your home base a wide variety of unique, untamed, wilderness and adventures await you!

You can take great short walks into the untamed wilderness. Swim at beautiful beaches. There are many opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the wild West Coast by water, foot or vehicle.

When travelling New Zealand, don't miss out on “the best bit!” Plan to stay and experience the awe and thrill that adventure tourism on the Wild West Coast gives you!

To learn more visit: www.westport.nz

Heaphy Track

Oparara Arches

The Northern

KARAMEA

WEST COAST

Wangapeka Track

Old Ghost Road

SEDDONVILLE Charming Creek Walkway

GRANITY

DENNISTON

Historic Mining Area

WESTPORT CAPE FOULWIND

THE OLD GHOST ROAD

A forty-five minute drive through the stunningly beautiful lower Buller gorge and just past Inangahua, the site of the large 1968 earthquake, is your next Northern West Coast wilderness adventure. Going all the way from the site of the old gold mining town of Lyell through to Seddonville is the “Old Ghost Road” – a purpose-built mountain biking and tramping trail. In a class of its own. A variety of tours to cater for your needs and abilities are available.

Seal Colony Walkway

Buller Gorge

TAURANGA BAY

CHARLESTON

UNDERWORLD ADVENTURES

Twenty minutes south of Westport at historic Charleston, a usually inaccessible, wilderness adventure awaits you at “Underworld Adventures”. Underworld Adventures have four unique cave and karst adventures. Experience Underwater Rafting – floating below in an enormous, untouched cave system, enjoying the breathtaking beauty of magnificent stalagmites and stalactites and galaxies of glow-worms.

Truman Track

Pororari River Walkway

PUNAKAIKI

Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Destinations | West Coast

Visiting the wonderful West Coast

By Carol Hawes

Our beautiful Buller region has so much to offer, so we are not surprised when the majority of our visitors say to us, they will have to extend their stay when they return, to experience more of our unique, tranquil region.

One and a half hours north of Westport is Karamea, which is the gateway to the Kahurangi National Park. Here you will be in awe by the beautiful landscapes and in admiration of the distinctive Nikau palms scattered along the coastline.

Just a short distance north of Karamea is the Oparara Basin, which is world known for the magnificent limestone arches, including the Moria Gate Arch, perfect for those photo opportunities.

If you are seeking a further insight into this amazing history, then the three-hour Honeycomb cave tour, would be an ideal treat with its impressive features and a varied collection of subfossil bird bones.

Walks and exploring are plentiful in this region, including an hour’s walk up to Scotts beach, commencing at the suspension bridge at the beginning of the Heaphy track.

Need to rest those tired legs and fuel the body?

Look no further than the Last Resort, known for its outstanding hospitality. Gentle Annie and Mokihinui sit peacefully on each side of the Mokihinui river, each with their own quirky popular campgrounds.

The Cowshed Café based at Gentle Annie, is New Zealand’s only coffee shop situated in a once operating milking shed, now serving delicious homemade baking. Close by, is Seddonville, which is the entrance to the historical Charming Creek walkway, and the 85km hugely popular Old Ghost Road cycling and hiking track.

For refreshments or accommodation don’t go past the friendly Seddonville hotel, or the Rough and Tumble lodge, which has outstanding views of the Mokihinui river.

Hector and Granity are small towns nearby with some quirky and local crafty art shops. Hector is also home to the Country and Music Heritage Museum. This has an exclusive collection of Country Music memorabilia.

Greeting visitors into Westport.

Close by is Waimangaroa, the entrance way to Denniston. From here you can wind your way up the steep road to this historically rich, coalmining town, with once being described as the “8th Wonder of the World”. At 518 metres above sea-level you will be able to view the 1.5-kilometre incline, once used to transport coal between 1880-1967.

With walks, a small museum, historical relics, mountain biking tracks for the adventurous,

Municipal Clock Tower Chambers in Westport. and spectacular views over the ranges and Westport, this is a fantastic day out.

If you need to relax after this, call into the Scullery Cafe, famous for its pies and unique atmosphere. Relax amongst the local carvings, statues, and plants.

WESTPORT At BP2go Westport, we are your sort of store, with your sort of people and we are just down the road.

ph. 03 789 7379 tracey.gibby@xtra.co.nz bp2go.co.nz

Westport, a vibrant town, awaits you nearby, with its stunning sandy beaches and beautiful sunsets. Top quality restaurants will spoil you for choice.

Numerous walks and hikes are nearby, with great fishing and surfing spots at your doorstep. Why not take a tour on a Unimog up to the Stockton opencast mine, Denniston or Charleston and see New Zealand as it was 100 years ago and meet the characters of yesteryear with Outwest Tours?

A must do, is the Cape Foulwind walkway, showcasing incredible views along the Coastal peninsular, passing the entertaining seals on the way, then leading you on to the historic lighthouse.

Coaltown Museum right in the heart of Westport, will inform you with the stories of the pioneers who battled the rugged environment in search of a better life.

An hour inland is a quaint gold mining town, Reefton. A village surrounded by character and charm and being the first town to receive electric power. For the historian at heart, the Black Points Museum will not disappoint with an extensive collection of West Coast exhibits and memorabilia.

62 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

The new modern Reefton distillery is a unique West Coast experience with tours and tastings daily. Walks and hikes are plentiful, and gold panning is popular.

Charleston, 20 minutes South of Westport, originally a bustling gold mining village, is now a popular tourist spot, known for the beautiful Nile River.

Underworld Adventures operate a very successful underworld rafting and caving experience, which showcases galaxies of glowworms, including beautiful rock formations.

Just 20 minutes South of here, situated in the Paparoa National Park, is Punakaiki. Named as one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world and home of the famous Pancake rocks and blow holes, including outstanding scenery and a breath-taking coastline, makes this place an extremely popular spot for visitors.

There are beautiful walks for all levels including the new sought-after Paparoa Great Walk hiking and cycling track.

Kayaking down the Pororari River is impressive, with the lushness of the bush and the beautiful limestone formations.

There is plenty of accommodation here, so you can truly experience this out of this world wonderland. CT Westport I-SITE Visitor Information Centre (03) 789 6658 info@westportinfo.co.nz www.westport.nz — Advertising Feature

Destinations | Southern Circuit

Southern adventures With the Government announcing its tentative reopening plan and Kiwis itching to travel again, a Southern Circuit trip may be the ticket to rejuvenate your spirit and rest your weary bones before we can safely travel overseas once more.

Plus, it’s the ideal time to explore the lower South Island without as many tourists bumbling about.

Spring is just around the corner, and with it, why not take your once in a lifetime trip in one of the most beautiful regions in the world?

Lakes and Rivers Information: • Lake Wanaka – 311 m deep, 45.5 km long, 192 sq km, 4th largest lake in New Zealand • Lake Hawea – 393 m deep, 35 km long • Average water temperature 8.9°C – 20.0°C.

Wanaka

Information sourced from the Wanaka Tourism website. Visit www.lakewanaka.co.nz for more.

When people think about Wanaka, often their minds drift to the famous Wanaka tree or as a stop on the way to Queenstown.

Queenstown

The fact of the matter is Lake Wanaka in spring is really the best of both worlds. Not only can you explore in warmer weather and longer days, but you can also attend events in both the dirt and the snow.

What’s great about Wanaka is there are options for both people who want to tramp around outside and people who want to experience the finer things in life.

You want to test the limits of your physical prowess? Try the Roy’s Peak 24 Hours challenge. You want to get away from the hustle and bustle? Escape to Lake Hawea in its picturesque glacial lakes.

Have a taste of premium spirits at Cardrona Distillery just outside of the town, or walk along the lakefront at all the restaurants and café dotted alongside it.

One of New Zealand’s most internationally renowned cities, Queenstown is known for being the adventure capitol of the world.

From bungee jumping to skydiving, any adrenaline junkie can go get their fill, especially as the ski season draws to a close in October.

You can go skiing in the morning on the snowcapped Coronet Peak and then go for a walk in the afternoon to enjoy the blooming cherry blossoms and daffodils.

There’s something for everyone, though, not just those who want to be active. Eat your fill paired with some of the world’s best Pinot Noir from Central Otago while admiring the glittering Lake Wakatipu reflecting the sunlight on a fresh spring’s day.

Nugget Point Lighthouse – The Catlins, Southland.

Photo credit: Graeme Murray.

Fiordland National Park

There is also a thriving nightlife, where you’ll be able to pub crawl around town in Queenstown Central.

100,000 years in the making, fourteen fiords – a u-shaped glacier-carved valley which has been flooded by the sea – frame the southwest corner of the South Island.

In Maori, the fiords were created by a giant stonemason called Tute Rakiwhanoa, who hued out the steep sided valleys with his adzes.

Southland Despite simply being referred to as ‘Southland’, the area encompasses a glittering region full of different natural wonders.

Information sourced from the Southland NZ website. Visit www.SouthlandNZ.com for more.

The magnificent Milford Sounds in Fiordland, the rugged beauty of the Catlins, and Stewart Island below it all, there is much to be seen.

The biggest city in Southland is Invercargill, the gateway to all the wonderful scenery the region has on offer.

Go visit the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, Milford Sounds, with dramatic waterfalls, forest-clad cliffs, and mountain peaks brushing against the sky; the gateway to panoramic views of the Catlin coast from Nugget Point Lighthouse; or historic sites littered along the bottom of the South Island. It’s something no one will want to miss. CT — Advertising Feature

Fiordland, on New Zealand’s South Island, is home to the spectacular Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Stay in Te Anua or Manapouri to explore the breathtaking treasures of Fiordland by water, air or hiking.

With over 150 eateries in Queenstown and nearby Arrowtown, you are spoiled for choice.

Bluff, Southland waterfront. Photo credit: Miles Holden.

Boat in Glenorchy, Queenstown. Photo credit: Miles Holden

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Construction | Tukanga Developments

Trusting the process Alex Penney is a man with a plan. He also likes to be the man with other people’s plans.

“The company name is also meaningful to me.

Tukanga means process, and the saying ‘trust the process’ is a mantra for me.”

At 26 years-old, Alex already has two years under his tool belt as the owner of building company, Tukanga Developments.

There is a lot to be said for youth, aside from having a full head of hair, it can embody a fearlessness that can make just about anything possible.

His projects include architectural new builds and most recently, a major renovation of an 1880s Christchurch house on Papanui Rd, which is a work in progress.

He describes these projects as a microcosm of what he represents and wants to do.

Those who have collaborated with him share the assessment, that he’s a young guy who has vision and will find a way to say “yes” to his clients’ requests.

Alex brings this to his work, but don’t confuse that fearlessness with unnecessary risk taking.

“I’m very aware that I’m dealing with peoples’ livelihoods. What I do like to do, is take on the worry on behalf of the client.

“Try different things, gain experience in different “I make the experience as easy and as enjoyable areas and take on new challenges. for them as possible. Because I’ve seen people go through some not-so-fun experiences during the building process.”

Technical, creative, practical

Many builders have a one track mind. Creative clients often need a builder and project manager who can really hop aboard with their vision and speak their language.

Alex says, “I find myself extremely interested in design and I know that if you pick up on some little things in the planning stage, it will make a huge difference to the completed project.”

It’s about being bold and acting on the courage of your convictions.

Arrowtown Design, interior designer Juanita Doherty sings his praises. “Because he’s young and innovative, I could bounce ideas off him.

“He thinks like a designer. Generally, as a designer when you come up with ideas, builders won’t back you. Alex is the opposite.”

She’s talking about Alex coming onboard as a second builder for an architectural house in Bannockburn, in Queenstown.

Juanita says that he joined them to gain experience and soon became invaluable for the project.

“I think the reason why we got our design ideas across the line is because of Alex’s input. Arrowtown Design is about to launch at Archipro (portal for building industry professionals) and Alex played a big part in that.”

The man himself says this kind of boldly-goingattitude is something that is prevalent amongst his peers, maybe it’s a trait of post-quake Christchurch young people.

The Papanui house while work takes place.

One of the objectives of Tukanga Developments is to bring affordable, high-quality homes to the city that still needs them, after so many were lost in the earthquakes.

M: 0275 336 623 E: admin@aep.nz exteriorplasterers.co.nz

Alex Penney and his apprentice Noah

“My group of friends who are the same age as me, are not afraid to go for it. I’ve got two mates who run a building company, who have a lot of work on. I’ve two other close friends who have 50 or 60 townhouses on the go. We all came up doing our apprenticeships together.”

OK, Boomers, the young Turks are forging ahead.

And this is all good, according to Jaunita Doherty. “On the project management side of things, he was anticipating what was going to happen, letting me know what he needed from me well in advance. It made the Bannockburn project that much more enjoyable.”

The organisation side of things is one that Alex particularly relishes and he appears to be a natural but, becoming a builder wasn’t a fait accompli.

While at Christchurch Boys High School he kept his options open, doing Gateway training with a building company as an option if nothing else floated his boat.

Tukanga Developments at a glance Property development Creating a clear vision from the client’s idea.

Whether it be land of your own, or simply seeking advice about the financial viability of a future project.

Project management Whether it be a personal new build, spec home, a multi-unit complex, or renovating an existing property. Tukanga Developments aim to make sure day-to-day site operations run smoothly so the client can focus on the bigger picture.

Interior design Working with some of the best in the business, from colour schemes to feature components and lighting, every detail matters.

be ready to build as soon as he’d completed his What he did have a passion for, was forging his apprenticeship. (This was the McFadden’s Road own way; entrepreneurship always featured high townhouse project in Christchurch, the houses in his aspirations. sold earlier in 2021).

Prior to forming the company, Alex worked on his parents’ architectural house. Then, he and his brother Cam bought land in 2017, so he’d

Following his passion for business, Alex took a year off from his apprenticeship to do some business papers at university.

M: 0277 336 623 E: admin@erect.nz erectscaffolding.co.nz

Working together to provide our local Community with a Total Professional Package 64 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Construction | Tukanga Developments

The Bannockburn house lounge.

The Bannockburn house bathroom.

He knows he’s still learning, gaining experience and is wise enough to know when to use other people as a sounding board.

“I know I have back-up to call on, from people who can offer advice and to talk things over if I need it. Juanita is one of those.

“She was really helpful from a business perspective, having run her own business for a long time. And now, I know people doing apprenticeships and I can offer them some advice if they want it.”

Taking on a major renovation for an 1880s, twostory, timber house is a daunting task and one that even the owners question their sanity over.

Kate and Colin Sloss are the co-owners of two properties side-by-side on Papanui Rd. One is the aforementioned renovation, the other is a section where a new build will happen once the 1880s project is completed.

Upcoming Woolston project Tukanga has secured a development site in the up-and-coming Christchurch suburb of Woolston. They are in the process of developing plans for a four-unit complex.

These are architecturally conceptualised two-story townhouses, ranging from 2-3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, and will include an attached single garage.

Tukanga are hoping to have these completed and on the market by August 2022.

To register interest, go to: www. tukangadevelopments.co.nz/contact. is a beautiful old lady and there is definitely a market in Christchurch for character houses.”

The Sloss’s took Tukanga on for the renovation on the strength of their McFaddens’s Rd townhouses.

“I do wonder why we took on the renovation sometimes,” Kate laughs. “You never know “We went through and I thought they’d done what you’re going to get until you open up the walls. Fortunately, this one has good bones. She a far superior job to a lot of houses we’d

simple. honest. attractive. empathetic.

• • • • •

looked at. There was real attention to detail in the finishes.”

The vision for the Papanui Rd house was developed without an architect. It evolved from the first walk around, during engineering meetings and, according to Alex, just by “figuring out what we could and couldn’t do”.

The McFaddens Road house kitchen.

He says that many builders have a 12-month timeline pinned on their wall that they don’t even look at until they’re 10 months into the job, and find that they’re suddenly four months behind.

“I keep people in the loop with realistic expectations. There’s no point in saying that something is going to be done when it’s not.

I’ll update the timeline each time a major milestone is reached.”

Subsequently, the chimney has been taken out, a dining room turned into a grand loungeHe’ll then update the client, avoiding any sudden hall, existing windows have been removed and reinstated in different parts of the house, and old unexpected shocks. Apart from maybe the doors and handles reused as much as possible. shock of having a builder who’s on to it.

This article has turned into an In Praise of Alex Retaining the character is a top priority, during Penney piece, but in reality a company is only major renovations of the living areas. This has included ripping out the kitchen and laundry, and as good as its people, particularly those who run it. So, a look at the guy in charge reflects starting again from scratch. what to expect from the company. CT Kate says that they more-or-less leave Alex to it, including dealing with the EQC on re-piling the house. “He did a really good job with them. It Tukanga Developments was one less thing for us to worry about.”

021 2130 197 The importance of good communication and being honest about what is achievable, is something Alex is very aware of.

alex@tukangadevelopments.co.nz www.tukangadevelopments.co.nz

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Construction | Future Proofing - Weathertightness

Keeping nature at bay Many factors contributed to problems with weathertightness.

Poor design, poor project management and poor building practices played a role.

3. Joinery: Check for cracks along the joinery seals which can allow water ingress.

4. Penetrations: Check all penetrations in the cladding, for example around pipes, vents and meter boxes, for gaps and lack of sealant. Also check to ensure meter boxes are flashed correctly - the lack of flashing or reliance on sealant may allow water to penetrate.

The exposure of New Zealanders to international design trends and materials has led to a wider range of housing styles, but some house designs and materials are unsuitable to specific site conditions.

Some house styles and features designed for dry climate locations have been used in areas of high wind and rainfall. Features such as parapets, decks and pergolas that penetrate a dwelling’s cladding contribute to weathertightness risks, as does monolithic cladding, low-slope roofs, membrane roofs, a lack of eaves and complex junctions, especially when these are used in wet and windy conditions.

5. Pergolas: Pergola frame penetrating the cladding or direct fixed through the cladding may result in water ingress.

6. Windows: Check window flashings to ensure they are correctly installed. Round, shaped or corner windows are difficult to flash, increasing the risk of water ingress. Check for staining below the window.

flashings) intercept water at a building’s exterior and deflect it away from critical junctions.

House claddings do leak. That becomes an Wall assemblies need to be designed and built issue when the water is not dealt with effectively with protected cavities to incorporate drainage and affects the integrity of the house. to allow any water that may have penetrated the The Canadians developed the 4Ds philosophy of exterior cladding to drain down the back of the weathertightness – deflection, drainage, drying wall cladding and out. and durability. In New Zealand we have adopted The amount of drying that occurs depends on those principles, but we now also consider the cladding type and the way it is installed and airtightness, ventilation and insulation. all components of a cladding and wall assembly must meet the durability requirements of the The ideal is to achieve all 4 Ds. Deflection devises (such as cladding and window head Building Code.

Leaky building basics Features of a leaky building 1. Ground clearance: Inadequate cladding clearance to ground, paving or decks or insufficient fall away from building perimeter. Clearance to solid ground (concrete, asphalt, paving, decking timber) should be 150mm; clearance to soil 225mm.

2. Cracking: Look for hairline cracks in the cladding, typically found close to windows and doors or discolouration of cladding around these areas.

7. Enclosed balcony / cantilever deck: Enclosed balconies and cantilever decks can result in a multitude of risks. (a) A lack of fall on the balustrade, (b) Handrailings attached through the plaster cladding, (c) Poorly applied waterproof membrane, (d) Insufficient drainage holes allowing water to pool after rain, (e) Lack of clearance between the cladding and the balcony floor - all are signs that water may be penetrating the building’s exterior.

8. Interior signs: These can include swollen or cracked skirting boards or architraves; mould on the inside of curtains and window liners; floor coverings showing signs of water damage; and swelling, cracking and popping of wall liners. CT

Resilient buildings What could make a building more resilient to climate change and environmental challenges during its lifetime? There is more to this than making a structure earthquake-strong and weather-tight.

and be placed outside the thermal mass of the floor or sunlit walls, for it to work. Placing carpets on insulated concrete floors does not work: floors need to have attractive surfaces such as tiles, to let the energy flow in and out.

Rain on the Plains

Photo-voltaic panels are most useful on building where most of the energy use is 9am to 5pm, such as schools, factories and offices; although fast developing battery technology may soon make 24 hour power storage cost effective for households. Decentralised power production increases resilience by reducing reliance on large and distant generators, linked by the national grid.

A warming climate brings greater water-carrying capacity in the atmosphere: we can expect heavier winter snow on higher ground and more frequent rain or hail than experienced last century. Drains could be overloaded as ‘fifty year flood frequency’ becomes perhaps ‘ten year frequency’ and detaining flood water will be needed to help roadside swales cope.

In the east of NZ, climate change may mean the year’s rain falling in uneven bursts between periods of drought: rain water storage may become a part of resilience for buildings as well as farmers. Garden watering and toilet flushing are good uses for stored rainwater, reserving piped supplies fore essential uses. Water storage is also really useful in civil emergency, such as after quakes.

What’s the buzz?

Warmer temperatures and dwindling frost nights may allow mosquitoes to spread their habitat southwards, boosting demand for insect screens on windows. Longer growing seasons may favour home food production, coupled with fashionable edible decorative gardens. The resilient home needs space for raised garden beds and healthy soil left on site after construction: free from lead paint scrapings or construction debris.

Warming to the idea Sunshine is the free heat that a resilient design incorporates by increasing north-facing glazing and reducing on the south, provided the structure has internal thermal mass to absorb heat by day and release it overnight, achieving temperature stability. External shading from mid-summer heat is important too. Insulation needs to be extensive,

66 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Future Living Skills A more resource-efficient, less polluting future will call on a new life skills from building users as well as designers and constructors. We may need to know something about local food production, low-carbon transport, waste and water minimisation and community resilience. These topics feature alongside energy and eco-design in a community education programme which is freely available in Christchurch and Waimakariri.

For details see www.sustainableliving.org.nz.

On this website, under ‘Learn’ you will find occasional tutor-led courses and workshops, if you are ready to seek contact with others sharing this interest.

There is also good advice on including sustainability awareness in new building and renovations at: www.ccc.govt.nz/environment/ sustainability/build-smarter www.ecodesignadvisor.org.nz/resources Rhys Taylor is the National Coordinator of Sustainable Living Education Trust. He lives in Canterbury. www.sustainableliving.org.nz

Less waste, low carbon, great quality of life!

We do use fun group activities, relevant web-links and accurate science

We don’t use guilt or fear, confusion, or free gift junk

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www.securescaffold.co.nz Head Office - 38 Lowe Street, Addington, Christchurch 8011 Christchurch Yard - 72 Shortland Street, Wainoni, Christchurch 8061 www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 67

Transport | Technology & Development

Sustainable transport key to global goals From electric cars and buses to zero-carbon producing energy sources, new and emerging technologies along with innovative policy changes, are critical for combating climate change.

development, he said, describing sustainable transport as “one of these crucial areas”.

But to be effective, they must ensure that transport strategies benefit everyone, including the poorest, according to a new UN multiagency report launched in mid-October.

However, climate change has continued inexorably.

The “clock is ticking on our 2030 timeline” to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Change Agreement, the head of the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), Liu Zhenmin, said in the foreword of Sustainable Transport, Sustainable Development.

A focused, global effort In preparation for the second Global Sustainable Transport Conference in Beijing and online, the report charts a forward course to an integrated, sustainable approach towards making cities safe and resilient, as outlined in SDG 11.

Covid impacts The COVID-19 pandemic has set back years of progress towards eradicating poverty, ending hunger, empowering women, strengthening education and improving public health.

“Global average temperatures in 2020 were 1.2°C above pre-industrial levels, inching perilously close to the desired limit of 1.5°C,” said the DESA chief.

The pandemic also delayed the Transport Conference a year and a half later than originally planned.

Recovery from the pandemic will give everyone a chance to rethink passenger and freight transport along with integrated solutions toward achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, according to the report.

“Resolving these trade-offs are essential to achieving sustainable transport and, through that, sustainable development.”

“Two years into the UN Decade of Action for the SDGs, we must recognize that accelerated progress is needed simultaneously across multiple goals and targets,” Liu said.

Since the first Transport Conference, held five years ago in Turkmenistan, there has been an increasing appreciation of the importance of sustainable transport in a world linked ever closer by globalization and digitalization.

The Sustainable Transport report upholds that, when appropriately applied, new and emerging technologies are key to solving many pressing challenges by accelerating existing solutions, such as low-/zero-carbon vehicles and intelligent transport systems and creating new fuel, power and digital infrastructures that mitigate harmful consequences.

As such, it is necessary to make “a focused, global effort” in areas where there are deep, systemic links across the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable

“Transport is vital for promoting connectivity, trade, economic growth and employment. Yet it is also implicated as a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions,” Liu said.

“Innovations, driven by new technologies, evolving consumer preferences and supportive policymaking, are changing the transport landscape.”

Changing mindsets

A shifting scene While science holds tremendous potential for transforming to sustainability, some new technologies also risk further entrenching inequalities, imposing constraints specific countries or presenting additional challenges for the environment.

Therefore, they must be accompanied by measures to maintain and expand equitable access to transport services as well as those that mitigate environmental impacts across vehicles’ entire product cycle.

The report encourages Governments and international bodies to regulate the development and deployment of all new transport technologies. CT

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Transport | Woolston Auto Surgery

Customer experience comes first Woolston Auto Surgery has been in the heart of Woolston Village in Christchurch for over 40 years, and the vision of its owner Ross Davids is to connect, grow and cement its reputation in the neighbourhood – and beyond.

A major focus for Ross, since buying the business in 2019, is on customer experience based on good communication as a way to differentiate them from other mechanics.

This attitude to customer experience is extended through its partnerships with the likes of VTNZ and being an MTA member.

Warrants of Fitness are carried out by an independent, qualified inspector onsite meaning the customer can then immediately get on to getting any repairs or maintenance done that the inspection shows need attention, at the same location.

New Zealand has a fleet of 4.1 million vehicles and is one of the most varied in the world.

The mechanics at Woolston Auto Surgery are experienced in working on the plethora of vehicles that make up that fleet – European and Japanese of all makes and models. They also work on light commercial vehicles.

Woolston Auto Surgery services: • Car Servicing • VTNZ Warrant of Fitness • Full mechanical repairs • Diagnostic scanning • Oil and filter changes • Auto Electrical repairs • Cambelts • Batteries • Tyres and puncture repairs.

which then develops into trusting relationships with our customers,” Ross says.

Customers come in with an expectation of a level of service, especially where safety is concerned.

These kinds of partnerships come with other positives for Woolston Auto Surgery, like a nationwide network of suppliers and technical support to draw on.

“We have partnerships with the likes of VTNZ and MTA to solidify our reputation for safety,

This is another contributing factor to that good customer experience.

The WoF booking won’t be affected by staff sick leave because there is back-up available from a pool of inspectors in Christchurch.

Ross believes that if people get a smile and a chat when they buy a coffee and a muffin at a cafe, they deserve at least that when spending hundreds of dollars on their car.

“Historically you drive into a mechanic shop and customer experience is low on the agenda.

We’re the opposite of that.

“We’re a team who are friendly, can have a conversation and explain what’s going on with the customer’s vehicle.” CT Woolston Auto Surgery 693 Ferry Road Woolston Christchurch 03 384 9092

— Advertising Feature

We provide quality service We work 24 hours a day

We offer Wof inspections, Servicing, Tyres, Wof Repairs, Full Mechanical repairs & much more. Honest, reliable, friendly local workshop catering to automotive and mechanical maintenance and repairs. Conveniently located in the heart of the Woolston village with ample off-street parking, sits a modern workshop where all the team works to give customers a superior service all the while maintaining excellent work practices and standards.

Ph 03 384 9092 / 693 Ferry Rd, Woolston Christchurch www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 69

Transport | Premium Tyres

Society | Funeral Directors Association NZ

Choosing a funeral director who’s right for you One thing that seems to surprise New Zealanders the most is that Funeral Directors in New Zealand do not have to legally meet any standards and there are no requirements to be able to act as a funeral director.

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

Premium Tyres & Autos services include: • WOF and WOF repairs • Full vehicle servicing • Full range of new and used tyres

With two Christchurch branches, in Linwood and Bromley, they are conveniently located for ease of access.

• Wheel balancing and alignment

“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.

• Puncture repairs

“It means that people don’t have to waste time going elsewhere for repairs etc., and then spend even more time returning for a recheck,” Don says.

• Batteries.

• Fitting mag wheels

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

They do not need to know anything about funerals or how to care for the deceased.

It seems crazy but it’s true and is a real concern for those who want their loved one cared for respectfully and decently by trained and experienced professionals.

This is why it is so important to choose a funeral director that is a member of the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand (FDANZ).

• Brakes • CV joints • Shock absorbers and suspension repairs

Premium Tyres & Auto has all the latest vehicle diagnostic technology in their fully-equipped The team at Premium Tyres & Auto provide a full workshop, and fully trained and qualified staff. service for all makes and models of cars, fourDon says along with having everything you wheel drives, vans and light trucks. would expect in a modern, well-equipped auto servicing shop, what makes Premium Tyres & They also carry an extensive range of new Autos stand out is the effort they make to do and used tyres for cars, vans, light trucks and their best for their customers. CT four-wheel drives and provide a free fitting and balancing service on all the tyres they sell.

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.

This means that anyone can decide they want to be a funeral director, pop down to the car auction to pick up a cheap station wagon, buy a cheap mobile phone, set up a free Facebook account, fill in a simple form for the local council and start trading.

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To be a member of FDANZ, funeral homes have to adhere to a Code of Ethics, a Code of Professional Conduct, have NZQA recognised qualified staff and undertake ongoing professional development to keep their knowledge and skills up to date.

FDANZ members undergo regular inspections, have access to technical resources for any unusual circumstances and 135 other member firms around the country to share information and best practice.

When you deal with a FDANZ member you will be given a written estimate of the costs based upon your individual requirements and a written contract so you know you will be getting exactly what you asked for.

They are your only real assurance of receiving a quality service.

What’s more, even if something does not go well, all FDANZ members submit themselves to an independent complaints process.

They are confident that it will not be necessary but you have the added assurance of knowing the process is there just in case. This is an assurance of quality that is not available elsewhere.

Making the right choice of funeral director is critical in ensuring you have a meaningful funeral as part of a healthy grieving process.

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70 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Funeral Directors Association NZ CEO David Moger.

“

When you deal with a FDANZ member you will be given a written estimate of the costs based upon your individual requirements and a written contract so you know you will be getting exactly what you asked for.

”

Visit www.fdanz.co.nz today to find a FDANZ member firm near you. CT

John Rhind Funeral Directors – playing a vital role in the Christchurch community John Rhind Funeral Directors, established in 1881, has compassionately served generations of Christchurch families and retains a special connection with many of the city’s residents today.

John Rhind understands that organising funeral can be a trying time for a family, but it is also an opportunity to organise a memorable service to celebrate the life of a loved one.

well over a century. John Rhind has built a strong reputation and a certain rapport with its customers who appreciate the dignified manner in which they handle funeral services.

“We run a varied fleet of vehicles, from the ultra-modern imported Cadillac to a recently restored classic 1974 LTD hearse – it’s another example of our range of choice,” Garing says.

General manger Tony Garing says the company can be as versatile and diverse in the way it handles funerals as anyone. “We can offer traditional, modern or alternative funerals - we can tailor our services to suit the client.”

Continuing tradition

This onsite catering is an important aspect of John Rhind’s services which can be completely tailored to suit dietary and or budgetary needs of the guests.

“A funeral is a tribute and a celebration of life, bringing family and friends together at a time of mutual sadness. By sharing their sorrow and paying true tribute, it can help them look ahead to the future.” – John Rhind website

140 Years in Christchurch Not many companies can claim to have served Christchurch for

The professional, experienced team at John Rhind can help plan and conduct a memorable funeral from casket selection to catering. With 130 years of industry experience the company has become a benchmark for high standards which even extends to the selection of the hearse.

After 140 years, Tony Garing is quick to point out the reasons for the continued success.

“Our staff are amazing, we have three of the Rhind family still working in the business, representing the fifth generation to do so. We have a lot of long serving staff including funeral directors that have been present for generations of the same families, that’s comforting for those people.”

Being a long serving company has allowed John Rhind to evolve into the brand it represents today, a brand distinguished by quality and its undeniable longevity.

Award winning grounds The London Street chapel is famed for its gloriously well kept gardens which befit the beauty and grandeur of the John Rhind premises. During the years the company has been the recipient of numerous awards for its manicured gardens which offer an added sense of comfort for the guests.

All aspects of the John Rhind service are conducted to meet the needs of their clients during an emotional time, but the comfort of having a loved one’s funeral organised by a company that has served the Canterbury community for 140 years, is priceless.

John Rhind Funeral Directors 15-19 London Street Christchurch T (03) 379 9920 www.johnrhind.co.nz

At Rhinds, it’s the extra service that makes the difference Our team is passionate about providing a professional and caring service, helping families design a funeral service that is a unique and personal remembrance, while providing the highest standard of service.

Our commitment is to listen, guide you through the options and then take care of all the details to make the funeral service meaningful. We understand the needs of families and friends going through the stress of a bereavement.)

15-19 London St r eet, Chr istchurch

•

(03) 379 9 920

•

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 71

Focus On | Workplace Safety

Keeping everyone safe on-site A business must provide information, training and instructions to protect both workers and visitors on a construction site. Inductions provide people with the basic knowledge of work health and safety requirements, such as the key risks on site they need to be aware of and what to do in an emergency.

• If relevant, it is good to show workers the Task Analysis/Safe Work Method Statement.

Other documents like standard operating procedure or work procedures are also a good idea.

• Any relevant legal responsibilities, codes of practice or technical standards that must be followed.

How should an induction be carried out?

The way an induction can be delivered will depend on various factors, for example the number of people being inducted, the size of the workplace and the complexity of the work health and safety matters to be discussed.

What information should be provided at a workplace induction?

The method of delivering a workplace induction is up to the person in charge as it depends on the size and nature of the project. It pays to consider any language or cultural barriers before deciding on your induction process.

Workplace specific inductions vary depending on the type of project and what stage the project is at.

For example, at a less complex workplace, like a single storey house site, an induction could include a short pre-start meeting or on the job training. For large and complex civil or commercial projects, a more detailed induction would be required, for example to explain the emergency response and evacuation processes.

It is good practise to let new works and visitors to the site know about the following key points:

• How to report incidents and hazards • Hazards and risks specific to the workplace e.g. working from heights • Control measures for those risks e.g. compulsory harness use

• Incident, emergency and evacuation procedures

• Site specific rules that must be complied with e.g. you must wear personal protective equipment

• The layout of the workplace including entries and exits, location of facilities, first aid and security requirements

• Safety documents, policies and plans specific to the workplace e.g. traffic management plan.

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Task specific training If the person will be working on the site, then you should give them task specific training. This training provides information to people carrying out a particular job and what hazards, risks and control measures link to that particular task. This training should cover: • Who is in charge and responsible • Information on the task that worker will be doing • Hazards, risks and control measures involved in carrying out the task

Remember to keep a record Where possible a record should be kept of the names of people who have been inducted and trained. This should include the training content, who conducted the training and the date. Make sure the participant acknowledges the training, the best way is to sign the training record.

Site Safe has a Site Specific Safety Plan (SSSP) which has many of the templates referred to in this article.

Visit: www.sitesafe.org.nz. CT

How to manage workplace risks around drug and alcohol use in Canterbury workplaces One of the biggest challenges facing Canterbury businesses is staying compliant and managing workplace risk around the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol.

suspicion to verification? When you do test them, and what if that test returns a positive result?

Unfortunately, identifying employees under the influence isn’t as easy as one might think. Even when the clues are obvious, many managers lack the skills and confidence to deal with delicate and volatile situations that arise.

Next, ensure your company has a relevant drug and alcohol policy. Those rules and guidelines should outline the reasons for drug testing, processes involved, and methods of assistance given to employees who test positive.

When you don’t know how to professionally approach a drug and alcohol issue, the situation can move rapidly from asking simple questions to laying the groundwork for a personal grievance claim. But also, under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, an employer who’s aware an employee is at risk from substance use and fails to take action is liable when an accident occurs – and that’s why businesses need professional advice.

Get professional advice on drug screening employees and get advice on what testing suits your business such as on-site, pre-employment, random, reasonable cause, post-incident, urine, oral fluid or hair testing.

How do you manage an employee currently on ‘P’ or meth? How do you move from

To manage a modern workforce operating in Canterbury’s drug and alcohol culture requires planning, education and training.

TDDA recommends starting by establishing that your company culture does not tolerate working under the influence. Also, explain your expectations on drug use and testing during job interviews to set the tone early.

Canterbury employers can’t afford to tolerate the effects drugs and alcohol have on workplaces and a robust policy and testing programme plays a pivotal role in keeping businesses compliant and employees safe.

Focus On | Nelson

Nelson’s affordable housing solution

By Rosie Duff

According to realestate. co.nz, only 12,932 homes were available for purchase in New Zealand at the end of December last year.

Currently, Nelson is one of the areas facing the brunt of New Zealand’s housing shortage, with available stock plummeting by 50 percent over the past 12 months.

In response to the urgent demand for more affordable housing in the area, a $12 million dollar fund was established in November 2020, following the Nelson City Council’s sale of its pensioner housing to Kainga Ora. Among the midst of public frustration about its slow progress, ‘phase one’ of the Council’s Housing Reserve proposal was initiated earlier this month, with $2 million in grant funding towards organisations able to increase the supply moderately stable incomes who struggle to find warm, secure housing. of inexpensive units officially announced on Tuesday October 5.

“Every day, there is another article about the housing crisis. Every day, people are forced Representatives from Habitat for Humanity to shift because they lack secure, affordable Nelson and the Nelson Tasman Housing housing. Every day, people are getting sick due to Trust publicly commented acknowledging poor quality housing. the substantial effect the funding will have in enabling them to initiate affordable housing “The housing crisis leaves none of us untouched projects in the near future for low-income and we can only address it by working together. earners or families who are not eligible for “The housing reserve is a game-changer for Government housing.

Nelson, and by releasing $2m now, we can Similarly, Nelson Mayor Rachel Reese says help much-needed projects get off the ground the grants will permit the city to assist those in the short term, while working to ensure whose lives are negatively impacted by the the remainder of the fund can make a lasting housing shortage. contribution to housing in Nelson.

“Our community needs affordable housing now, “We frequently talk about housing like it’s just and as housing costs continue to rise, we must a building, but what we are really talking about act quickly. is a home; a safe haven, a sanctuary, a stable “People who are our friends and neighbours are foundation. A place for children to be raised, struggling to access a fundamental human right, older couples to enjoy their twilight years, and newlyweds to establish themselves; for laughter, secure and safe housing. love and memories.

“We want to support projects that will “So today, we have taken an important step provide safe, well-designed homes that keep to help create a secure, safe, stable new start people connected to their communities,” for people by supporting homes,” the deputy the mayor explains.

Mayor concludes.

Deputy Mayor Judene Edgar, reveals she is looking forward to seeing proposals for housing Applicants are required to display a level of that prop up individuals in the “middle” on co-investment from other sources or partners

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in conjunction with the amount of Housing Reserve grant money requested.

will be acceptable before having to be returned to the council.

Submissions will be chosen dependant on how well they meet the council’s criteria, and the applicant’s track record.

Plans should also be in keeping with environmentally-friendly and low-maintenance design.

Specifically, candidates must pledge to commencing construction within 12 months, however due to Covid 19 and other potential ongoing factors, a delay of up to two years

Applications to phase one of the Housing Reserve grants programme will remain open for four weeks, from 7 October 2021 to 3 November 2021, with those applications then being taken to a full council meeting on December 9. CT

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gregcostleylandscapes@gmail.com www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 73

Focus on | North Canterbury

Hit the brakes!

By Rosie Duff

A report released by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency reveals that in 2020, 318 people were killed and more than 2500 were seriously injured on New Zealand roads.

Waka Kotahi data also shows that there have been 60 crashes alone on the section of the Tram Rd overbridge in Waimakariri between the on and off ramps, since the start of the millennium.

One of which resulted in a fatality, six in serious injury, eight in minor injury and 45 being non-injury crashes.

Indeed, while Canterbury presents some scenic riding routes for motorcyclists and drivers, the area also unfortunately suffers one of the highest death and serious injury rates in the country.

In an effort to mitigate this issue, the Waimakariri District Council (WDC) are requesting community feedback on a proposal to reduce speed limits in and around towns throughout North Canterbury.

Covering roads in and around Cust, Kaiapoi, Ohoka, Oxford, Pegasus, Rangiora and Woodend, as well as some unsealed roads around Tuahiwi and Ashley, the review aims to reduce Canterbury’s Road toll and ensure that speed limits are appropriate for users.

The WDC’s road safety coordinator Kathy Graham, explains that the safety of people using roads around the district is one of the Council’s top priorities.

“

We want to hear what the community think of the proposed speed limit changes.

”

Graham believes that ensuring speed limits are appropriate is one important way to reduce the danger for everyone.

The proposal comes after lower speed limits were rolled out by The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) on SH1 between Waikuku and Lineside Rd from December 15 last year.

“We want to hear what the community think of the proposed speed limit changes.

An electronic sign at the Pineacres intersection, which currently reduces the speed to 70kmh when traffic turns on to the highway, was also decreased to 60kmh.

“Whether you drive a car, ride a motorbike, walk or cycle, it’s important we receive your feedback,” Kathy says.

The latest review by the WDC is in keeping with New Zealand’s road safety strategy, ‘Road to Zero’, which has a quantified goal

of reducing the number of deaths or serious injuries on the road by 40 per cent in 2030.

On a national scale, reaching the proposed Road to Zero target will mean fewer than 230 people killed on our roads and reducing the number of people seriously injured on our roads to fewer than 1,700 by 2030.

Following the consultation with the community and road user groups, staff will report to the Community Boards and the Waimakariri District Council, who will draw a final decision on the matter later this year. CT

North Canterbury Kainga Ora development wins excellence award Culverden Branch, 20 Lyndon St.

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A Kainga Ora development in North Canterbury has earned a top prize at the New Zealand Property Industry Awards in Auckland.

Receiving an excellence award in the multi-unit residential property category, the High and White streets development in Rangiora was praised for its attractive architecture, quality construction and age-friendly features.

According to the judges, “These beautifully designed units are of an equal standard to many private developments in the area. They challenge preconceptions of what a state home looks like.’’

“The development reflects the changing face of state housing. When it comes to quality, design and liveability, public housing developments comfortably foot it with private sector developments.

“Not only is Kainga Ora delivering homes at scale and pace, our new state homes also provide warm and dry, modern spaces that meet the needs of today’s customers.”

Home Construction director Israel Cooper says the judges were particularly impressed by the use of colour, durable building materials, and the communal garden areas.

“To have this development recognised as one of the top multi-unit residential developments in the country is a special feeling.

“Current social housing developments are at the forefront of innovation, design and sustainability, and stand among the best in the country.”

Designed by Rohan Collett Architects and built by Home Construction, the development comprises 28 one-bedroom homes, and utilises a range of materials, including timber, metal cladding and locally-sourced brick veneer.

Replacing nine older homes built in the 1940s and 1960s, the High and White development comprises standalone homes, duplexes and clusters. Designed with older New Zealanders in mind, the ground-floor homes have level access, wider hallways, mobility scooter bays and wet-area bathrooms.

Kainga Ora deputy chief executive Construction and Innovation, Patrick Dougherty, describes the win as hugely satisfying.

The award is the second accolade for the High and White development this year, after the development won the Grand Prix New Zealand honour at the Dulux Colour Awards 2020. CT

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Focus On | Rolleston - Selwyn

The show will go on

Selwyn Sounds pegged to be the biggest and best yet Amidst the covid pandemic, New Zealander’s are looking towards the summer they are hoping and dreaming of as Music Festival Selwyn Sounds tickets are selling fast.

For more information, visit: www.selwynsounds.co.nz.

This popular Christchurch event taking place on Saturday, March 5, 2022 is one to get in the diary quickly, as rock royalty Aussie legend Jimmy Barnes joins a spectacular lineup of talent.

“I am starting to get itchy feet and want to get out and play some rock and roll. Selwyn Sounds is such a great celebration of music, it is a big weekend. They have lots of great bands on. We are going to go hard,” Jimmy Barnes says.

The lineup also includes Australian based Kiwi rocker Jon Stevens, who with his Noiseworks and INXS collection, will be performing all the huge hits, as well as: Choirboys, Stellar, Greg Johnson, Ardijah and Rietta Austin.

The event has sold out every year and 2022 should be no different - so be in quick before it’s too late secure your ticket from: www. selwynsounds.co.nz.

“Musicians haven’t had a chance to be on stage wait to get back on the stage it is all lining up for a while and it is safe to say they are pumped. to be a pretty incredible gig for all involved.”

Now in its sixth year, this will be the festival’s biggest and best show yet.

Festival director David Parlane says Selwyn Sounds is about bringing back memories.

“We are so thrilled even with the pandemic as vaccination numbers rise and musicians can’t

76 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“We are going to hear banger after banger and it is going to go off.

Selwyn Sounds is not only about the music, but a day out for the entire family, with 30 different food vendors offering a world of delicacies. CT

At a Glance | Stack Electrical

Focus On | Rolleston - Selwyn

Electrical services with a smile

Anderton Decorators We do it all from new homes to repaints, commercial to fences and floors, Gib stopping to wallpapering.

You name it and we can do it.

We can also help with EQC works and insurance jobs.

Shane Anderton – owner of Anderton Decorators

I have been in the decorating trade for over 30 We have our own scaffolding for those hard-to- years and have a team behind me with many reach places which also keeps your costs down. years’ experience as well.

We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to We are based in Rolleston and not only do we ensure all our clients’ expectations are met. service the Selwyn area, we also travel the whole of the South Island, from Nelson to Bluff. We stand by our work no matter how big We go where others won’t. or small. CT We are members of the NZ Master Painters Association and are proudly backed by them.

Our team is all site safe approved and we stand behind all our work.

We can also assist with planning those bigger renovations with trade planning to help make it as stress-free as possible.

Anderton Decorators 2, Unit 9 Izone Drive Rolleston 7675 027 724 6846 andertondecorators@gmail.com www.andertondecorators.com www.facebook.com/andertondecorators

Stack Electrical has been family owned and operated for over 35 years.

The company started from humble beginnings, with owners Allan and Judy Stack working out of their garage providing new home wiring, but has been growing, with the team now comprising of 21 electricians, apprentices and — Advertising Feature administration staff.

Since then, David Stack (Allan and Judy’s son) has taken over the business, helping to keep the family business roots alive.

Based out of two offices in Christchurch and Wellington, David and his team are committed to providing a service that meets and exceeds customers’ expectations.

Selwyn based & servicing all of Canterbury

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“Whether we’re working for residential builders, commercial and industrial customers or individual home owners, we strive to provide a prompt and friendly service.

“Our focus is on our customers and being a family business, a lot of our clients have become our friends, which helps with creating that personal touch,” David says.

Along with having a personal approach with our customers, we also like to do a lot together as a team.

“We tend to hold quite a few events during the year to keep morale high and we try to give back to the community as well.

We sponsor the Heathcote cricket club; we give to the City Park Community Patrol and help with the Academy School Books as well.”

Keeping continuity of staff is a big key to our success. We have quite a diverse team of workers and the work we do is quite diverse, David says.

“If we bring subcontractors into a project, we’ll only bring on contractors that we trust and we know will deliver a high standard. We’re not the lowest price for our subcontractors, we get the ones that we believe can do what we need, to the standard we need it done.”

Along with continuing great customer service and looking after our staff, we’re wanting to open a branch in Otago or Southland in the next few years to service some of the clients that we have down there, David says.

“

Whether we’re working for residential builders, commercial and industrial customers or individual home owners, we strive to provide a prompt and friendly service.

”

- Company manager David Stack

“We want to keep giving our clients the best final product we can and we want to keep growing our business.” CT Stack Electrical 65e Brisbane Street Sydenham Christchurch (03) 379 4062 info@stackelectrical.co.nz www.stackelectrical.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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Focus On | South Canterbury

Barkers of Geraldine partners up with MetroEXP Barkers of Geraldine, the iconic South Canterbury brand, is going from strength to strength and are committed to the ongoing rise and expansion of their flourishing local company.

Having celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2019, Barkers have steadily established themselves as one of New Zealand’s favourite and most trusted local brands, bringing fruity flavourful offerings into the homes of kiwis for 52 years, stocked in every major supermarket throughout the country, we all know, love and use their quality products.

A family-owned business which still operates out of the same farm and processor in Geraldine, the business understands the importance of staying true to their roots and keeping things ticking away through the generations.

Michael Barker, current chairman and son of original founders Anthony and Gillian Barker, is foraging the way for the future of Barkers while still paying homage and respect for the past.

Reflecting on the past 50 years he expresses, “50 years on Gillian and Anthony Barker would be amazed and very proud. We must acknowledge their dream and the culture they created.”

Looking to the future, Michael is focused on Barker’s commitment to the growing food industry specifically in fruit and vegetables in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“

We are over the moon to be working with the team at Barker’s of Geraldine who are as delightful to work with as their range of amazing products are to enjoy.

”

The brand has diversified its product range extensively in recent years. It has come a long way since just fruit wines and preserves now offering everything from dessert sauces and soda syrups, to meal maker sauces and chutneys.

In a recent announcement, an exciting new partnership has been established between Barkers and MetroEXP, an Auckland based marketing and activations agency. Barkers has appointed the agency to be their brand and outsourced marketing partner.

Although comparatively small compared to other brand agencies, MetroEXP has curated their team with only the very best industry professionals who offer their services to a whole range of New Zealand businesses, whether they be big or small.

They pride themselves on experience, passion and meticulous attention to detail, something Barkers really resonated and aligned with.

Barker’s marketing manager Jillian Stanton says, “The MetroEXP team brings together all the elements you need in an agency: solid creative thinking, integrity, professionalism and clear communication to ensure everyone is on the same page.

“Even better, they’re a great bunch of people with strong values and are a pleasure to deal with.”

MetroEXP has solid experience working with some of New Zealand’s most influential and growing brands, these include the likes of AEG Power tools, McDonalds, Chorus and Ford.

They are equally as thrilled to be chosen to represent one of New Zealand’s most special and prospective businesses.

“We are over the moon to be working with the team at Barker’s of Geraldine who are as delightful to work with as their range of amazing products are to enjoy.

“It’s another sweet win for MetroEXP as we showcase our skills in creating cost-effective campaign work that balances marketing objectives with value for money for businesses that want to see more bang for their buck,” says MetroEXP managing partner, Tammy Milani.

The budding interest of Kiwi food products in overseas markets is an exciting prospect of expansion that could be on the cards for Barkers.

Wellington nut butter company Fix & Fogg having just recently won a contract to supply US grocery chain Whole Foods with their range, an exceptional achievement and a reminder that Kiwi businesses really can crack it in the competitive overseas markets.

MetroEXP working alongside Barkers is a dream team combination and although the expansion of Barkers over the past 50 years has already been big, this may only be the start of the success story for this Geraldine business. CT

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Focus On | Timaru

Injecting new life into Timaru’s arts district The construction set to be underway in early 2022 for the revamped Theatre Royal and Heritage facility will bring about a muchneeded breath of fresh air into Timaru central, with emphasis on the grand extension of the towns culture and arts district.

During initial planning stages for the project an important decision needed to be concluded on in regard to the appropriate construction approach for the site.

Architecture company Architectus is in charge of the exciting project, renowned for work across the country, being especially monumental in the Christchurch rebuild with work including the Hine-Paka Bus Interchange and the Turanga Central Library.

Jane Rooney is overseeing the project for Architectus and alongside her team planned on exactly how the original Criterion Hotel was going to be retained and successfully integrated into the new design of the theatre.

With a core focus on designing spaces for communities, context and culture, Architectus was the clear choice for this facility.

Three options were established which included, starting from scratch with complete demolition of the site, secondly looking to build a new museum and backstage area whilst retaining and restoring the main auditorium and foyer spaces and lastly, build a new museum and refurbish the entire existing theatre building.

United, all councillors involved placed their vote for the second option, which was relatively cost effective and with the mixture of new construction and restoration hopeful in keeping project time at a possible minimum.

Architectus has experience in the careful business of fusing older heritage with new designs, a mixture which can very easily be misinterpreted in the wrong hands.

A fantastic exemple of this very ability is demonstrated in the revitalisation of the St Andrews College memorial chapel that was damaged beyond repair in the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes.

The stunning chapel completed in 2016 displays the company’s effortless brilliance in incorporating the past with the present.

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Ian Lockhead from architecture New Zealand reflects on this triumph achievement, noting, “The St Andrew’s Centennial Chapel explodes the modernist myth that integrating new and old building elements will inevitably result in a compromised design.

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“The finely detailed elegance of the new steel and glass structure gains richness and resonance through its juxtaposition with the traditional building materials, repurposed doors and windows and reused furnishings.

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“Such a layering of meaning would have been virtually impossible to achieve in a purely modern design”.

Via Timaru District Council, Jane explained how the old and new would exist collectively in a cohesive zone for this facility.

80 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“

The heritage bluestone walls from the Criterion Hotel will be strengthened and stabilised so they can be retained also the original textured walls will add richness and interest appropriate to the new Heritage Facility.

”

“The heritage bluestone walls from the Criterion Hotel will be strengthened and stabilised so they can be retained also the original textured walls will add richness and interest appropriate to the new Heritage Facility.”

The project has a strong support of $11.6 million funding from the Government’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund, this funding has been the backing that the council needed to give a final go ahead on the extensive project.

The use of small original elements should not be underestimated, Architectus has a true understanding of this and harnesses these subtle elements to elevate and preserve for future generations to enjoy.

Timaru District Council group manager commercial and strategy, Donna Cross, expressed the intention for centre to be a cultural hub.

The council project manager, Nicole Timmy, outlined on the Timaru Council website that the project was major in terms of size and scope, “the entire complex will cover approximately 4,430 m2, or about 17 standard tennis courts,” she says.

“The public facing theatre facilities will remain approximately the same size, but aspects such as the fly floor and the back of house facilities will be improved and changing rooms refurbished.

“The new heritage facility will spread across three levels. The ground floor will have a reception area, a temporary exhibition space, function space, back of house facilities and an education and staff support space. The permanent exhibitions will be located on the upper floor.”

“We believe it’s critically important that mana whenua is involved in this process from the ground up.

“This approach will help us all create a collective cultural experience that reinforces a sense of history, identity, community and place.’’

Ambitious and innovative, with the cleaver exploration of old and new, collaboration within the Maori community and the big tick of approval from arts and heritage lovers in the local community, the new theatre project is set to impress and becoming highly anticipated for its big reveal.

The project is set to be completed in 2023.

Locals believe it will be a great asset supporting the continued growth of their local community. CT

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Phone: 03 688 2373 | Email: timaru@thinkwater.co.nz | 19 Seadown Road Timaru, NZ 7910 www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 81

Focus On | Queenstown & The Southern Lakes

Construction service specialists Landscaping and demolition admin can be a hassle, especially if you have to organise different contractors for several different areas of your project.

If you’re wanting to see their portfolio for yourself; make sure to check out the Clear Contracting Facebook page for any updates on what they’re up to.

For more information, phone 0277 152 228 to get in touch with Max and the team at Clear Contracting today. CT

Services: • Site preparation • Landscaping • Driveways • Rock walls • Section clearing • Bulk cartage • Drainage.

Fortunately, Clear Contracting is your onestop-shop building and construction service specialist around the Queenstown and Southern Lakes District.

Locally owned and operated, Clear Contracting was first established in February 2019 after owner and operator, Max Clear, decided he was in need of a new challenge – which was to start his own business.

Since then, operations have run smoothly and “the feedback has always been good”, Max reports.

Working across a number of projects, Clear Contracting has a robust resource base readily available for contract works.

“We do anything from site preparation to clearing gravel and supplying cartage. Pretty much anything to do with earthworks really,” Max says.

• • • • • • •

Machinery:

Behind any successful business is a dedicated team that make it happen. Clear Contracting is no exception to this rule.

Reflecting on the market around Queenstown and the Southern Lakes district, Max agrees, “It’s really busy, there’s a lot going on.”

“We have a decent team culture, and everyone gets on, so it’s good,” Max notes.

So, whether you’re looking for assistance with a site preparation - or are just in need of a quick and efficient earthworks service, you can be rest assured that Clear Contracting will deliver a high degree of workmanship and expertise.

And with no shortage of jobs currently available in construction, the industry is currently a land of opportunity.

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

027 715 2228 Email max@clearcontracting.co.nz 82 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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