Canterbury Today Magazine Issue 164

Issue 164 | 2022

The war on truth The vital importance of recognising fact from fiction

Three Waters 101

The Three Waters reform explained

Developing digital wellbeing practices

Natural health Reaping the rewards of natural healing

THE WORLD OF WHITTAKER'S How Matt and Holly Whittaker are carrying on a family legacy

Up and running Tips for starting your own business

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Cover Story

Publisher's note

Viewpoints Pages 6-7

This cover story in the issue of Canterbury Today features Matt and Holly Whittaker as the pair talk about Whittaker’s history and how they intend to carry on an iconic company’s legacy.

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We look at how to make the most of the year ahead, protecting intellectual property when an employee leaves, developing a strategy in a pandemic infested economy, and why cold emails miss more than they hit.

There are also pieces with tips for starting your own business, developing ‘digital wellbeing’ practices, the Three Waters reform explained, proven steps to develop a risk management strategy, and the vital importance of recognising fact from fiction.

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.

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

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

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Three reasons cold emails don’t work Why cold emails aren’t working and what to do about it

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The home-based business boom Preparing to start, or operate, a company from home

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Events diary Find out what’s on near you

Management Pages 8-21 Up and running Tips for starting your own business 9

YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS

Strategy in a pandemic infested economy If you fail to plan, plan to fail

Editor

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

Hit the road Jack Protecting intellectual property when an employee leaves

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MAGAZINES TODAY OVERVIEW

A year of opportunity Making the most of the year ahead

Life and style Items worthy of desire

10 Technology in the workplace Developing digital wellbeing practices 11 Three Waters 101 The Three Waters reform explained and how it will affect us all 12 The world of Whittaker’s How Matt and Holly Whittaker are carrying on a family legacy 14 A wide-ranging look at risk management Five proven steps to develop a risk management strategy for construction scheduling

48 Possible turning point as new listings and housing stocks rise

15 Preparing for business as un-usual Put your own mask on first

Construction

16 The war on truth The vital importance of recognising fact from fiction 17 Green building New Building Code requirements to deliver biggest energy efficiency change in over a decade

50 Passive House – building our future 51 Ethos Homes - the right builder is a crucial choice 52 Universal Concrete – delivering the gold standard of concrete 53 Gen-Y Homes - making any project smooth sailing Focus On

18 Natural health Reaping the rewards of natural healing 21 The big delay Supply chain constraints pose ongoing infrastructure risk

In Business Pages 26-76 Finance and Accounting

54 Nelson’s spot under the sun 56 A trip through Selwyn 59 Hayden Paddon helps promote safer driver choices in Timaru 64 Jobs on the way for Oamaru’s youth 68 Dunedin City Council faces divided opinions Funerals

26 Top tips to keep on top of your cash flow

70 A meaningful farewell is your gift to them

Motoring

Lifestyle Choices

28 How trucking contributes to the economy in good and bad times

72 The ever-increasing acceptance of non-alcoholic drinks

32 Improving the safety of vehicle fleets Hospitality 37 Earl is an exceptional dining experience featuring simple, traditional recipes

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Destinations 38 Adventures in Fiordland, Stewart Island and The Catlins 42 Touring the Chatham Islands Manufacturing 44 What professionals in the engineered timber industry need to keep on their radar Property 46 Welcoming landlord and tenant privacy guidance

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Management | Viewpoints

Leeann Watson

John Shingleton

Martz Witty

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

Partner at MDS Law www.mdslaw.co.nz

Witz Endz Limited martz@witzendz.com

A year of opportunity

“Hit the road Jack…”

0Tau hou hari happy new year! As we head into 2022, it is very much a case of ‘the only constant is change’ as we continue to adapt to a rapidly evolving business environment.

For employers, when a trusted employee resigns, often of concern is how to minimise the risk of the employee, or their new employer, appropriating customer networks that were created, developed or acquired by the employee whilst employed.

From a central government perspective, we are likely to see policies and strategies aimed at tackling immediate economic headwinds in areas including our slow economic bounceback, immigration, a slowing China, tourism and inflation.

Other big issues will be climate change, the acceleration of industrial relations reform, three waters reform and the well overdue overhaul of the RMA. However, the first cab off the rank is likely to be the compulsory national pay agreements known as Fair Pay Agreements, which we are advocating strongly against, as they would remove the flexibility and autonomy of modern workplaces, won’t improve pay and conditions for employees, and are out of step with how we need to work in 2022.

At the end of last year, we saw an increase in the OCR to 0.75, with the financial market forecasting projected hikes to 2.25 by the end of this year.

While this was not surprising, now is not an ideal time as there is a significant number of businesses who are cash poor, stretched and stressed financially, and have incurred a huge amount of debt, so any additional cost is going to be challenging.

Restraining employees from working for a competitor for the sake of it is not lawful. Rather, any restraint must be a necessary consequence of taking reasonable protective measures.

It’s true Covid has affected almost every business; it has claimed the life of many businesses who weren’t prepared for it and failed to take immediate action.

They were unprepared or simply had absolutely no control over matters that impinged on their business.

This inaction – a failure to contemplate and plan for various alternatives - is a death knell.

Rather, most prudent employers will rely on terms in their employment agreements to try and protect their legitimate proprietary interests. These terms are usually described as confidentiality, restraint of trade and non-solicitation clauses (I will call them restraint clauses).

Blaming Covid for inaction is a common thing, but I do not recommend it. I’m hearing, “Well we can’t do anything about it.”

“I have no control.” “It’s no use.” “Others have control.”

“I’ll wait and see.”

Each type of restraint clause has distinct meaning, but all are meant to protect a legitimate proprietary interest in information.

Just recently, the Employment Relations Authority grappled with such a situation. Of interest are the Authority comments on what is a proprietary interest.

1

At paragraph 75, Authority member Beck noted:

gives a lear and identifiable competitive advantage, then restricting the employee’s ability to make contact should be fair and reasonable.

Rubbish. Absolute unadulterated rubbish.

Applying strategy to the new year and actions that you can have control over, will ensure the future proofing and viability of your business. I totally agree you can’t control everything – but then even without a pandemic that would also be true.

The clients I’ve been working with last year are taking a leaf out of the BCP (Business Continuity Plan) and applying it to the new ‘normal.’

Maybe it’s not pretty, but better to be prepared and being alert to the circumstances rather than just lying there and getting run over by a veritable freight train.

Ultimately your plan should start with a review of the owner’s vision - the personal nitty gritty.

One hundred percent of the things you don’t go for you will not achieve.

Next up the business vision: documented, specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time driven – an old methodology, but a winning one.

Equally importantly, develop a winning, leading edge, strategy.

A cunning strategy on how to achieve both sets of goals.

Time to think outside the box and also observe what others are doing – can you adopt any of these ideas or strategies?

Don’t be alarmed if it’s not being done by anyone else – maybe that’s a sign that you need to investigate further!

Get the ideas flowing, write them down, research yourself, or get someone to look over your shoulder and protect your back.

One thing in business is certain…“If nothing changes – nothing changes”.

For how long will be the next question…

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Happy new year! I’m not one for “New Year’s Resolutions” but when it comes to business, it can be a timely reminder to do a check-up from your neck-up.

Relying on the common duty of confidence as a means of protection is not a great legal position to be in either.

“On public policy grounds, provisions restricting an employee’s It would be good to see the Government take pressure off with post-employment activity are regarded as unenforceable unless a more pragmatic approach to immigration and getting the skills they can be justified as reasonably necessary to protect an into New Zealand to support business activity. employer’s legitimate proprietary interests. The provision must be confined to protect such interests. An interest must be some At a regional level, we are entering the new year on a relatively identified advantage or asset held or developed by or strong footing. for the employer that it would be unjust to allow an employee Our economic activity has been robust, with economic to appropriate for their own purposes, even though the confidence at net positive since the fourth quarter in 2020. We employee may have contributed to the creation of that also saw retail spending bounce back strongly in 2021. Net advantage or asset.” exports also remain strong despite myriad challenges.

First, it is important to note that unless the employer can justify Although it is important to note that the positive economic the restraint as reasonably necessary to protect a legitimate activity is not consistent across all sectors with some sectors interest, then it will not be enforceable. Secondly, the restraint still feeling the impact of Delta. must only protect a legitimate interest.

We are also looking forward to Te Pae opening, SailGP, the ICC Thirdly, not all interests merit protection. The reference to an Women’s World Cup, and the return of international acts and identified advantage is a very good clue as to what is designed events including Bread & Circus World Buskers Festival and to be protected.

Snoop Dogg.

So, when Jack hits the road, is it is fair game to prevent Jack There is also the local election in October, where it will be from activating some of his customer network whilst his important that we elect a council that is able to build on existing employer tries to secure/maintain their custom? strengths, has a willingness to incorporate new approaches, The answer is yes - but it depends. and above all, is an enabler of business – particularly as we look forward to (we hope) the borders re-opening in 2022.

If the nature of the relationship with the customer network The year ahead will be one of transformation as we continue to live up to our regional reputation for resilience, positioning us well to meet any challenges head on and make the most of the opportunities this new year will bring.

Strategy in a pandemic infested economy

Management | Viewpoints

Events diary Assia Salikhova

Richard O'Brien

Founder of Smarketing Lab www.smarketinglab.co.nz

Manager of nzbizbuysell www.nzbizbuysell.co.nz

ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 March 4 to April 3

Why cold emails aren’t working and what to do about it Research shows that every $1 invested into email marketing returns $47.

Who can miss such an opportunity?

I bet you’ve also heard the stories about people sending one email and getting massive sales.

That might be why, as the owner of New Zealand largest business database whoiswhere™, I receive enquiries for a list of emails. Businesses want to send an email blast and collect the cash.

The reality is a little different from the stats. Let me share three key reasons why cold emails are not working from my experience:

The home-based business boom Maybe it’s a side hustle, or something much larger?

Many a successful business has started in the home or garage and has succeeded - and some are big-time.

Jeff Bezos who created Amazon initially sold books out of his garage and went on to create Amazon in 1995. Mark Zuckerberg created Facebook in his Harvard dorm. Microsoft co-founders Bill Gates and Paul Allen founded their company in a garage. Steve Jobs used his parents’ garage.

“There’s no better symbol for the entrepreneur than the humble garage,” says Bill Gates.

But you don’t need to reinvent the wheel or have that next bigidea to be a home-based entrepreneur.

1. Wrong list Emailing lists are often full of people outside of your target market. While targeting your ideal market is a basic fundamental of marketing, the rush to reach as many people as possible through email leads to increasing the size of the list for all the wrong reasons.

2. Giving up too early Most people/companies often send 1-2 emails and when nothing happens, they simply give up with a bitter taste that email marketing doesn’t work. Are you familiar with the research that if 20 years ago you needed 3-7 touches, now we need 17-24 touches before a sales conversation happens?

This is true for email marketing as well. That means unless you have a transactional sale, you might only get results after 17-24 touches. Are you ready for that?

3. Wrong expectations There is no silver bullet in marketing. That’s where marketing success stories can be misleading. With a cold email campaign, you would be lucky to get a 10 percent opening rate. That means for 1,000 emails, only 100 will open, 5-10 will click through and only 0.5-1 might buy. What can you do to achieve better results with email marketing?

1. Assess the merits of email marketing for your product/ service on both a strategic and tactical level. Review its relevance to your sales process and to your best performing lead generation activities.

2. Create a long-term game plan for email marketing. If your product or service is somewhat complex, you have to reframe email marketing as a vehicle to educate, share benefits, evoke interest, and inspire the first step.

3. Put effort into the development of a better email list. You can create a funnel and collect emails of people who have shown an interest. If I were you, I would never buy an email list, I would buy a phone list, make a call, find out who is really the right person for your offer and find out if they are even the right company. Then get an email of the right person to create a much more targeted list.

Home based businesses can range from Internet-based opportunities through to trades like electricians, plumbers, caterers, gardeners and builders, to professions such as lawyers, accountants, advisors and counsellors to mention a few.

Whether it is by choice or by default, many more people are starting or buying home-based businesses.

Each year continues to be a step-up for home-based entrepreneurs. Global pandemics and market shifts have resulted in company layoffs, less stability and more people unable to find traditional work matching their skills.

Especially since lockdown, home based businesses for sale have grown to become one of our more popular searches.

For some, the pandemic turned everything on its head. Family and lifestyle became more important, and there was a reminder that it’s not a good idea to have all your eggs in one basket.

This, coupled with the value of the internet and growth in online opportunities, sparked a heightened interest in “side hustles” and fully-fledged home-based businesses.

Working from home can offer great flexibility and an improved lifestyle, along with lower overheads and less travel. If you’re a self-starter, disciplined and focused, a home-based business can be a very rewarding and exciting option.

The key advantages of a home-based business: Flexibility you’re in charge. Your profitability is usually better due to the lack of overhead costs. There is the easy commute and not having to spend time getting to and from work, as well as the tax deductions from running a business from a dedicated home office space.

By buying a home-based business, you’ll get a head start by acquiring a business with an existing customer base and proven track record. You can then concentrate on adding value and building the business.

If you have decided a home-based business is for you, be sure you are ready for the change in lifestyle and that you have the necessary skills to make it a success. Relish the rewards!

The best of woman’s cricket is landing in New Zealand over a jam-packed period between the 4th of March and 3th of April 2022. The Woman’s Cricket World Cup is the height of the game, with the eight best cricket nations going to head to head in 31 enthralling matches across the country, all coming to its peak in Christchurch on the 3rd of April with the final being played under lights at Hagley Oval. www.tickets.cricketworldcup.com/content/cwc22/matches. aspx?c=christchurch

Nigel Latta – Resilience in Anxious Times Thursday, March 10

Well known New Zealand psychologist and author, Nigel Latta is back for 2022 at the Isaac Theatre Royal, with another informative session in navigating the stressful in order to come back better on the other side. In this session Nigel will reveal some simple things we can do to manage stress, reflecting on the hard-won wisdom of a Jewish psychiatrist and some even older wisdom from the very old porch which has long since vanished from our modern world. This is a fundraising event for Cystic Fibrosis NZ. www.premier.ticketek.co.nz/shows/show. aspx?sh=NIGELLAT21

The Canterbury Home Show

Friday, March 25 to Sunday, March 27 For all things interior design, inspiration and style, you absolutely cannot miss the Canterbury Home Show. A popular fixture annually for all design junkies, this exciting event which takes place at the Christchurch Arena in Addington is filled with the all the very best brands and experts, ready to help you with all your evolving design and renovation questions and queries.

You’ll find the latest in products, services, building advice, furnishings and everything in between, and all for free. www.canterburyhomeshow.co.nz

Delta Goodrem- Christchurch Town Hall Friday, April 1

Renowned Australian icon and global popstar, Delta Goodrem, is hitting our shores in early 2022 on her long-awaited Bridge Over Troubled Dreams tour. Ready to dance and sing along to all your favourite Delta smash hits? You certainly don’t want to miss out on the Bridge Over Troubled Dreams Tour, featuring all of the hits from one of Australia’s favourite entertainers. www.premier.ticketek.co.nz/shows/show. aspx?sh=DELTAGOO21

Pet and Animal Exhibition

Saturday, May 7 and Sunday, May 8 Pioneer Sports & Recreation Centre is hosting the Pet and Animal Expo this year. The expo is all things animal related and has everything for your animal needs under one convenient roof over two days. It will have advice, services, all the best products, plus a wide variety of different animals on showcase such as alpacas, birds, cats, dogs, fish and much more. This ought to be a great day out for families and anybody who loves animals. www.expotobi.com/pet-and-animal-expo

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News | Your Business

Up and running

By Natasha Parrant

Starting a business can be exciting, but it can also be hard.

Bohemian Bakery was established in 2016 intending to be a village bakery and have a wide assortment of goods. You name it, they bake it; pastries, bread rolls, donuts, pies, and cakes – all made on the premises.

There are a lot of things to consider to get the ball rolling.

The delicious bakery is both vegetarian and vegan-friendly with its very own selection of pastries.

Even simple things like the company’s name, location, and aesthetic can take time to figure out.

A well-known business that worked their way up to get to where they are now is Fix & Fogg founders Roman and Andrea Jewell.

The couple decided to leave their lawyer degrees and take that extra step further in the food industry.

In 2014, the couple established Fix & Fogg by making sustainable, delicious, yet healthy nut butter and are now known as the world’s best nut butters.

The business has won numerous awards globally and started as a small window store hidden away in Wellington – to stocking produce throughout New Zealand, Australia, the US, China, Singapore, the Philippines, Samoa, and Tahiti – (even the US has a window store).

Fix & Fogg offers various handmade flavours such as peanut butter, chocolate hazelnut butter, chocolate berry, and peanut butter with; fruit toast, coffee and maple, dark chocolate, and the list goes on.

Roman’s advice for business owners starting up their own business is essentially five things he wishes someone told him when he first started: “The more you give the more you get back.

It makes you feel good and it always comes back around. Donating to charities, surprising customers, and being generous is what makes us tick at Fix & Fogg, and I firmly believe it has contributed a lot to our success.”

According to businessman Gary Hirshberg, the key to being a successful entrepreneur is persistence, persistence, persistence. I couldn’t agree more. It made me comfortable with the fact that running a business is hard at any stage of the journey People are your greatest asset, but give them space to grow. They’ll almost always outshine you if you do.

“The founder journey is more important than the business journey. I’ve seen too many founders suffer from burnout, mental health issues, or breakdowns in their personal relationships,” Gary says.

“Look after yourself and your loved ones. It’s a lonely and hard path to running a business, so look after yourself. You deserve it.

"Breadth is the enemy of focus. Adopt an ‘inch wide, mile deep approach’ to your key markets instead of spreading yourself too thin.”

The bakery did so well it’s currently based in three locations; Sumner, City Bakery café, and St Martins.

“

The more you give the more you get back. It makes you feel good and it always comes back around.

Donating to charities, surprising customers, and being generous is what makes us tick at Fix & Fogg, and I firmly believe it has contributed a lot to our success.

”

Bohemian Bakery owner and founder Maka Angyalova is known for her traditional Slovakian and Czech recipes.

The bakery was first established in Sumner and the plan was for Maka to bake everything herself, but as the bakery got more popular, she has about 20 employees helping her run her business.

Maka advises new entrepreneurs to think about the figures when starting a business.

“Say I was earning $200 a day for making bread… that would be 40 bread a day just to keep your current income.”

She advises people to ask themselves, is that going to be sustainable?

There’s a lot to think about such as the investment, equipment, team, costs, and which premises.

“If you sum it up and it doesn’t add up, then you potentially need to think of doing something else.”

When starting a business, it’s important to be entirely committed.

Maka says you need to reassess your commitments, as this is something you – alone – need to invest lots of time in to think about the logistics of running a business.

Fix and Fogg CEO and co-founder Roman Jewell.

Also, think about what you can do yourself.

“If it might not be feasible for one person then you need to calculate the cost of employing someone and so on.”

In the hospitality industry, working with others is a key thing, but if you’re on your own there are limitations as to what you can do, she says.

Think about the distribution.

“If you want to sell products to supermarkets, they usually mark out about 20 percent of the wholesale price. That’s a huge cut, however, it’s a much greater reach for you.

Then it means can you make as much as your customer might demand.”

All business entrepreneurs should start small and ask for help.

Go to your local markets, schools, and centres so they can help get your products out there.

Another popular place a lot of foodies will know Starting small can also be better for your is Bohemian Bakery in Christchurch. mental health, she advises. CT 8 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Maka Angyalova making lemon tarts at Bohemian Bakery.

Management | Lifestyles

Lifestyles

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By Natasha Parrant

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News | Technology

Workplace tech benefits and traps

By Natasha Parrant

Technology is a tool we use to live, play, and work in our everyday lives.

A tool used to communicate, create and adapt as technology becomes more advanced.

There can be technology traps at work, which don’t benefit us in the slightest, but we continue to use technology without always acknowledging the effects it has on us.

A Victoria University of Wellington professor Dr. Cherie Lacey is a media studies lecturer with background knowledge in media, communications, and technology. She shares her thoughts on technology in the workplace.

“Digital technology brings both positives and negatives to our daily habits, productivity, and overall wellbeing.”

Cherie believes people who work are always online - whether it’s accessing emails or on social media, which can be challenging when trying to disconnect from the workplace.

“The results of this ‘always on’ nature of digital work tools can lead to burnout, stress, depression, and anxiety.”

Another effect is the tendency to multi-task instead of doing one task well. This expectation results in putting quantity over quality.

“A range of studies have shown how ongoing multi-tasking can increase stress—again, leading to burnout.”

Cherie shares tips on developing ‘digital wellbeing’ practices: • Set up and maintain clear boundaries between work and home life. When not working, resist the temptation to check emails, and keep the phone and laptop in another room • Check emails at set times during the day and log out of your inbox • Set your phone to focus mode during work hours. Research has shown that it can take 20 minutes to focus again after checking a notification or email. There are some good apps that will disable notifications on your phone.

Imagic managing director Dale Fairbairn shares his experiences with running a Christchurch-based web, design, and brand agency – adopting new technologies and helping marketing managers, business owners, and innovative leaders succeed in goals.

Technology in the workplace has been a “game-changer,” Dale says.

He thinks there’s a huge difference in dealing with clients and managing jobs than it was five years ago.

Technology has given staff the ability to be more accurate, efficient and to communicate effectively with clients.

The team uses several cloud-based collaboration and productivity apps to manage clients and staff.

Dale thinks there are workplace traps out there and an excessive amount of communication at times.

Some of the team is based in the office, whereas other team members work remotely throughout the country.

However, he doesn’t think there are massive workplace technology traps, as the team can set up to manage notifications so only those who need to respond are notified.

“It’s about keeping everyone on the same page and that requires better briefing and better communication.”

Some team members embrace adapting to “We’re delivering better outcomes on time and new technologies and some don’t. have clearer communication.”

The team hasn’t had many bad experiences with creating apps, except for one time an app didn’t go the way they planned. However, it’s all about trial and error. CT

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News | Legislation

Three Waters 101

By Megan Dunn

The new water reforms set to bring the “Three Waters” in New Zealand together (drinking water, wastewater and stormwater), seems to be doing the diametrical opposite; it’s tearing everyone apart.

The country would be split into four regions with each independent entity managing their region. It is proposed that these four new entities would be made up of nominated people and directors.

Current proposals suggest half of the people who select the panel who then select the board will be Mana Whenua, and the rest will be chosen by the councils from the region. The bill has put emphasis on giving iwi a lot more authority (but nobody ‘controlling’ the asset) in accordance with the Treaty of Waitangi.

Let’s talk the specifics of Three Waters to understand the bottom line of the reform and how exactly it will affect all of us.

The issues began to arise when Labour pitched the proposal as an ‘opt in, opt out’ situation for councils. Christchurch City Council was among the majority of councils across the country that did choose to opt out; then the government made the bill mandatory.

At current, the New Zealand water way systems and infrastructure is 85 percent managed by local councils. This means that 78 local councils manage the water systems of their particular region.

Pushing the proposal when the majority of councils heavily oppose the plan is not settling well among councillors’ and the general public.

Further, the financial profiling of the plan does not add up for some people.

Due to the major shortcomings of some of this local management, catastrophes have occurred in recent years.

They are angry that water assets that they have funded for years through their rate payments, insinuating some sense of ownership, are now going to swallow up into nothing, public assets being ‘sold’ with barely any explanation of the complete transfer of power.

So, what’s everyone so up in arms for?

Sickness and even death has ensued from contaminated drinking water on multiple occasions, which is simply unacceptable in a developed country such as ours.

A huge concern is that water issues are not simultaneous throughout the country.

Canterbury does not face the same water challenges and demands as the Otago region for example.

The outbreak of gastroenteritis in Havelock North in 2016 during which more than 5,000 people were contaminated and four people died, prompted the government to consider an approach for change, they felt it was necessary If there is an issue in Picton, how does to intervene. an entity based in say Wellington network the efficient repair and maintenance of t Enter the proposed entity-based model for his problem? water services. The Government’s proposal outlines its intention to transfer water Do local councils know their local region better management away from local councils to four than a separate bureaucratic entity serviced new independent entities. from afar?

Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta expressed, “These reforms have been long signalled.

“In our manifesto we committed to tackling big issues that others have long neglected in order to future-proof New Zealand. We are taking action to ensure safe, clean water for all communities in New Zealand for generations to come, protecting households from ballooning costs, and better preparing for the compounding impacts of climate change.

A huge concern is that water issues are not simultaneous throughout the country. Canterbury does not face the same water challenges and demands as the Otago region for example.

“It would be irresponsible to pour taxpayers’ money into propping up a broken system, or let households face unprecedented rises in water costs. Currently 43 of the 67 councils do not have the revenue to cover their water services operating expenditures at the moment, let alone once the infrastructure starts failing,” Mahuta says.

Reported in a press release, National party leader, Christopher Luxon, says the Government would “create needless bureaucracy, strip away local control, and

put distance between communities and decision-makers.

“This move is tantamount to state-sanctioned theft of assets that ratepayers have paid for decades to own.”

Environment Canterbury Councillor and environmental activist Lan Pham, shares via Stuff, “Those equally triggered by misconceptions about public assets being ‘sold’, ‘seized’ or ‘privatised’ should take comfort in the fact that their councils, on behalf of their communities, will own the proposed water entities.

“Precisely because of this shared-ownership proposal, water services would become more difficult to privatise than now.

“Scotland and parts of Australia followed a similar model, where water assets successfully moved from councils to dedicated public entities.”

A positive outcome which emerged from the review of our waterways is establishing a drinking water regulation authority called Taumata Arowai.

This organisation, which astoundingly had never existed previously, will make sure all of our tap water is safe to drink, something essentially everyone agrees with.

The appropriate management of our water systems is of upmost importance to us now more than ever. It is not only now one of our highest valued commodities, but absolutely essential for economic and social success as well as the health of our nation.

This is a controversial issue and decision that will affect us all enormously, equipping ourselves with a breadth of knowledge to make informed opinions regarding the best way forward is crucial. If all continues in this direction, entities are set to be established in 2024. CT www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 11

Cover Story | Whittaker's

THE WORLD OF WHITTAKER'S Ah, chocolate. It’s been said to alleviate stress, cure heartache and even acts as an aphrodisiac.

Much like gold redefined, it’s that of which has become one of the most cherished commodities in the world.

Here in New Zealand, we’re no exception to this.

By Rosie Duff

12 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Cover Story | Whittaker's On that note, it seems fitting to introduce you to James Henry Whittaker; a Kiwi gentleman who had a particular taste for the sweet tasting treat.

addition came to be is rooted in the Whittaker family tree.

“We wanted to showcase Canterbury, not only because it’s a special part of New Zealand, but also because it’s part of the Whittaker’s story, since our great grandfather first sold his confectionery out of his home in Addington in 1896.

Operating out of his residence in Addington, Christchurch, in 1890, James famously set up shop from the back of a horse-drawn cart, selling his confectionery to customers donning hats of the boater and fedora variety.

“Also, there is something truly special about Canterbury hazelnuts – they can’t be beaten on taste!”

Met by resounding success within the marketplace, some six years later in 1896, James went ahead and registered his company under his surname. Though he wasn’t to know it then, Whittaker’s chocolate has since become something of a national treasure.

Good honest chocolate ‘Best is always better’, is the name of the game at Whittaker’s - something all chocolate connoisseurs could agree on. Only, Matt and Holly share that their commitment to the best goes beyond flavour.

Nowadays, the brand’s beloved blocks – from bean to bar – are made at the company’s factory in Porirua. Proudly palm-oil free, you can find them stacked upon confectionery aisle shelves all around the country. Packaged in gold, they’re kind of hard to miss.

“We strive to do what we do in a good, honest way,” they say.

“That encompasses efforts across the business to improve our ethical and sustainable practices every step of the way, from supporting our community and suppliers, to developing sustainable packaging, to seeking ingredients that are ethically and fairly produced.”

The passing of the torch Fourth-generation siblings, Matt and Holly Whittaker, fondly recall growing up alongside the family business – from spending their school holidays working on the factory floor to their roles as co-chief operating officers today.

But it hasn’t always been smooth sailing for the brand. Between wartime rationing to pandemic panic buying – “a lot has happened in Whittaker’s 125-year history,” Matt and Holly agree.

To illustrate this, Matt and Holly point towards the brand’s recent fundraising work with local charities, Kiwis for Kiwi and Whanau Awhina Plunket, as well as their ongoing partnership with Rainforest Alliance – an international non-profit organisation working to improve the way crops are grown and harvested.

In a trip down memory lane, the siblings describe how after James Whittaker, came their grandparents’ generation, who created the iconic K Bar and Peanut Slab.

As 50 grams was the most popular size to get, it was decided it would be a perfect single product to manufacture. Henceforth, the Whittaker’s Peanut Slab we know today was born.

Since 1978, their father and uncle, Andrew, and Brian, have run the show and continue to have a hands-on role in the factory to this day. It was them who introduced the classic Whittaker’s 250-gram block, plus countless other innovations.

While each generation has left its own unique mark and shaped the brand as it stands today, the one thing that has remained consistent throughout, Matt and Holly say, is “the focus on quality, which is underpinned by a genuine passion for chocolate”.

The proof is in the pudding By way of happy coincidence, as Whittaker’s celebrated their 125th anniversary in 2021, they were also named by Reader’s Digest as Aotearoa’s Most Trusted Brand for the 10th year running.

Matt and Holly confirm that this is something they’re really proud of, “especially as the award is voted on by the public – we’re honoured by their trust in Whittaker’s.

“We take this as an endorsement of our focus on quality and innovation, our commitment to genuine engagement with Whittaker’s chocolate lovers, and the ongoing progress we’re making on our good honest chocolate journey.”

It is Whittaker’s lengthy history of chocolatemaking that gives their story distinction.

Indeed, their status as one of the nation’s eldest chocolatiers puts the brand on the map of New Zealand’s culinary history.

“

We recently extended our commitment to ethical sourcing through our partnership with Rainforest Alliance, so that our entire range of 116 products crafted with Ghanaian cocoa beans is Rainforest Alliance certified.

Regarding the level of investment it takes to maintain a 125-year legacy, Matt and Holly’s advice is simple, yet sweet: “The most important things are to focus on quality and engaging meaningfully with your customers, as well as knowing what your values are and staying true to those in everything you do.”

Behind the scenes Whittaker’s fine and fabulous flavour combinations have largely contributed to the brand’s widely revered status at home and overseas. So much so, it’s often New Zealand’s claim to international fame.

When it comes to the Whittaker siblings, they both tend to favour the classics. But, while Holly enjoys a Creamy Milk Chocolate Sante bar, Matt says he can’t go past a good old Peanut Slab.

Upon unwrapping the mystique behind Whittaker’s product development, Matt and Holly explain that it involves everyone within the company, “from Andrew and Brian Whittaker themselves, to our staff in the factory”.

The process in its entirety, is headed by their new Product Development manager, Megan

“

A little-known fact, they share, is that originally when you went to purchase a Whittaker’s Peanut Slab, the shopkeeper would have to cut off a chunk from a giant two-kilogram chocolate block that sat in the cabinet.

“We recently extended our commitment to ethical sourcing through our partnership with Rainforest Alliance, so that our entire range of 116 products crafted with Ghanaian cocoa beans is Rainforest Alliance certified,” they explain.

Sinclair, who has a micro-lab in-house. Some might say, this is where the magic happens.

“Any new creation begins as a sample block that Megan and her team create, taste test and rework until it is perfect,” the Whittaker siblings explain.

In terms of sourcing ingredients for their chocolate bars, Matt and Holly clarify that the company seeks to keep it local wherever possible.

“We’re fortunate that some of the world’s best ingredients are able to be sourced right here [in New Zealand] – including the milk used to make our milk and white chocolate.”

Featuring the likes of Mossop’s Manuka honey, and Hawkes Bay Black Doris plum just to name a few, the siblings explain that the Whittaker’s New Zealand Artisan Collection is specifically dedicated to supporting local producers who share their passion for quality.

Canterbury hazelnut supplier ‘Hazelz’ is the latest local producer to partner with Whittaker’s for their Artisan range, to create the Canterbury Hazelnut in Creamy Milk Chocolate block; the first flavour to hero a premium ingredient sourced from the region. The tale behind how this newest

Up next on the company’s goal sheet, is to ensure full traceability from farm to factory for all of the cocoa beans used to make their chocolate by 2025, as well as delivering on their commitment to use 100% percent sustainable packaging by 2025, building on where they are now with more than 75 percent of their packaging being recyclable.

So, what’s to come?

In 2020, it was announced that the Whittaker’s factory was expanding. News, that no doubt prompted a collective cry of joy from chocolate lovers around the globe.

While Matt and Holly don’t give away too much further on this front, they do confirm that although Aotearoa remains their number one priority, Whittaker’s have indeed been growing their presence in existing export markets, such as Australia.

“We now have nationwide distribution in all 800 Coles stores, as well as selected Woolworths and Big W stores and independent retailers. “[The factory expansion] has enabled us to increase our production capacity while maintaining our beans-to-bar chocolate making process, which ensures our highquality standards are maintained,” they say.

As concerns new products in the pipeline…

Matt and Holly promise that Whittaker’s is on the job.

“This year alone we have done a number of exciting collaborations with brands like Pic’s and Griffin’s, in addition to a range of new chocolate flavours.

“Rest assured, we’re working on other new flavours, and Whittaker’s Chocolate Lovers will be the first to know!” CT www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 13

News | Operations

A wide-ranging look at risk management Five proven steps to develop a risk management strategy for construction scheduling The engineering and construction industry has historically taken an informal and improvisational approach to risk management, often leading to risks being identified too late in the project lifecycle.

Frank Malangone Senior director for Product and Industry Strategy, Oracle Construction and Engineering

Results from the June 2020 quarter survey depicted that building projects throughout New Zealand were expected to see delays in completion times lasting between 20 and 60 working days, with the impact of COVID-19 regulations yet to be accounted for.

Proper risk management will help project teams identify potential risks before they are encountered and give the teams time to develop strategies to reduce the issue’s impact.

Some firms mistakenly only manage risks at the project level, which leads to an incomplete picture of exposure and performance.

Results from a NZ questionnaire survey of consultants and contractors in the construction industry showed 21 risk factors which were segregated into six broad categories in diminishing significance levels: site conditions, main contractor, pricing, subcontractor, external and client related risk.

It’s important to expand that focus, elevating that visibility to the program level. This will allow teams across projects to better synchronise resources and adjust plans to realise successful outcomes.

Organisations managing construction projects (or portfolios) are increasingly looking for ways to incorporate more comprehensive risk management practices, but many in the industry are not sure where to begin.

Here are five proven steps to help develop a thorough risk management strategy in construction scheduling:

in appropriate schedule, labor, and supply chain contingencies.

4) Disseminate for clarity 1) Recognise the risks The management team, at the beginning of a program or project, should try to identify potential risks.

to manage large, complex projects with thousands of data points that can change frequently, including calendars, resources, and the relationships between them.

Could poor weather or uncertain site conditions potentially delay construction?

Is there a risk that material costs could significantly rise unexpectedly?

It is also not suited to conducting risk analysis across far-reaching programs. For these types of complex scenarios, it is best to use a true risk management application.

It is impossible to identify and manage every possible risk, but the team should agree on any events that are most likely to occur and have the greatest impact. These are the factors that they will monitor and manage.

In addition, new AI tools leverage machine learning to analyse project data – both past and present – to continually assess schedule accuracy and provide predictive intelligence into potential risks on projects.

2) Evaluate your exposure After identifying potential risks, the team should determine the likelihood of each risk occurring, as well as impacts to costs and schedules.

Such tools can empower teams across the organisation to sharpen decision-making and take action on emerging risks before they become showstoppers.

Risks should then be ranked on the probability that they are to occur, and the impact they may have.

Teams should prioritise how they will manage specific risks with the help of Monte Carlo simulations and scenario planning tools. This will allow users to create and run various whatif scenarios by changing key variables.

While Monte Carlo analysis can be conducted via a spreadsheet, this approach is not suited

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3) Establish a response strategy Teams should have a detailed plan of action on how they plan to mitigate high-impact risks.

The project team should communicate this information to the project owner after they have completed their risk assessment and defined mitigation strategies.

This demonstrates an effort to take a proactive approach to reducing risk and allows contractors an opportunity to discuss the risks, mitigation strategies, and potential impact on the schedule and cost of the project with the project owner.

5) Track, adjust, and repeat As risks continue to develop, program managers must build in regular assessments to their mitigation strategies as conditions change.

Again, machine learning provides key support here by helping to identify potential risks and inefficiencies early, helping organisations make more informed decisions about the best path forward.

In conclusion

Scenario planning technology plays an important role here to assess what-if scenarios and determine costs and benefits of each mitigation strategy.

Good risk management strategies require the integration and analysis of diverse sets of information, including budget, cost, and schedule data.

While some risks ultimately can’t be avoided, such as building during unforeseen inclement weather conditions, this step can reduce the impact on the project by building

With this in mind, organizations managing construction projects will be well on their way to shoring up their risk management practices. CT

News | Operations

Preparing for business as un-usual

Put your own mask on first

But whichever side of the line you may be on, the past couple of years have shown us that anything can happen at any time, so before you hit 2022 running, make sure you get yourself ready for business as un-usual.

Start with what you do know Being forced to think differently fuels creativity.

Take some time to identify and reflect on the challenges that your business overcame last year.

For example, maybe you had to: • Downsize or scale up different parts of the business • Plan for and manage supply chain challenges • Move to an online sales model • Ensure your middle team leaders had guidance on how to support their teams • Support the needs of your staff to maintain engagement and stay focused and positive • Protect cash flow, monitoring expenses to ensure profitability.

Think about the successes you enjoyed and/or the lessons learned as you navigated these challenges; they are likely to equip you for whatever may come next. As you do so, you may well notice a change in current priorities emerging or identify new possibilities or opportunities.

The reality of managing multiple challenges simultaneously Another reality last year was the speed at which change came at us. It was fast and the way people cope with constantly shifting goal posts is different for everyone.

How you adapt, and how quickly you readjust to manage change is what really matters.

You might already have some ideas of what you take forward or those you could drop, but if you are wondering where to start, here are some suggestions: As you plan, identify tasks that can be easily adapted to an online environment should we (again) go into lockdown.

Consider how team structures and roles might change, and how people can shift their focus should they need to.

Think about what you can do to ramp up the care you show for your customers? Are there new opportunities to support them that you didn’t have in place before?

Think about what will make the greatest impact and help sustain your organisation, both in an operational sense and in terms of the wellbeing of your people.

Put your own oxygen mask on first It’s very easy when you’re leading an organisation to focus solely on your team’s wellbeing and neglect to look after yourself.

“

Think about the successes you enjoyed and/or the lessons learned as you navigated these challenges; they are likely to equip you for whatever may come next. As you do so, you may well notice a change in current priorities emerging or identify new possibilities or opportunities.

“

So here we are; at the start of another year. And depending on how 2021 was for you and your business, and what you see ahead of you in 2022, this may or may not be an exciting prospect!

Remember, your greatest asset is your health and so I encourage you to protect it carefully.

Unless you are at your best, how can you be the best possible leader for your team and your customers?

Rob Clarke Rob Clarke, CEO of Learning Architects

By identifying your triggers and putting strategies in place that work for you, you’ll become more resilient and effective at balancing all the various demands at peak times.

As it begins, be mindful of how you want to be at the end of this year, and if you found yourself strung out and exhausted last year, make some positive changes to ensure you finish strongly.

Remember - whatever challenges come at you, take a look back at what you’ve overcome so far and then put your own oxygen mask on first! CT

Be aware of the cognitive and emotional load you carry I personally notice that when I’m feeling ‘under the pump’ and the more I let this continue unchecked the greater the risk to my decision making, my communication patterns and most importantly, my wellbeing.

To avoid these pitfalls, make sure you consciously monitor the emotional and cognitive demands you are under. That way you can proactively put strategies in place to protect your wellbeing and balance.

Here are some ways to help ease the pressure: • Find ways to help you prioritise - Your ability to prioritise can decrease when your head is full! Find ways to clear the mind, through physical exercise, or mental strategies such as meditation or mindfulness • Use decision-making tools or processes - If you find it hard to make decisions when under pressure, use a decision making tool or share the decision making process with your senior team

There is no question that the business disruptions we continue to face here are demanding. Maintaining the levers that feed your business while trying to help your staff not blow • Ask a colleague to watch your manner - If you find your communication style changes a valve from the continual uncertainty of dealing when you’re stressed, for instance, you may with Covid level requirements, or managing raise your voice or change your tone, find Zoom fatigue from having to work remotely and someone on your team who you trust and ask manage their home life - especially when things them to give you feedback if and when this can change literally overnight - has been one of happens the greatest challenges.

• Prioritise a good night’s sleep - If your sleep There is always more to do than there are patterns change in any way, this is a sign that hours in a day and being able to remain strategic stress may be getting on top of you. Check in your approach is a critical factor on: light levels (including screens!) before to your success. bedtime, caffeine intake and what you are eating. If you have work worries, how about Less is more. Revisit your priorities doing some reflection or journaling before going home, so you can unload the worries So how do you decide what is most important before leaving work - then put on some music and maintain focus on the priorities that will support your business into the future? you love!

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News | Society

The war on truth

By Rosie Duff

These days, most of us have made a morning ritual out of tuning into the headlines first thing when we wake up.

Indeed, from reports about Covid-19 and the vaccine, to her majesty the queen; the news serves as a perpetual reminder of the events that are occurring throughout the world (just) beyond the scope of our daily lives.

Though, while news media may not explicitly tell us what to think, it does implicitly direct what we think about. So, it’s important to recognise when content is based upon fact, and perhaps more importantly, when it is rooted in fiction.

The origins of fake news You might’ve initially heard the phrase ‘fake news’ thrown around by Donald Trump, who, all but weaponised the term against the media over the course of his US presidency.

Yet, this concept is nothing new. As we know, people have been telling tall tales and farfetched fibs for centuries. In fact, once upon a time, news stories were openly replete with clearly fabricated tales.

Between sightings of shadowy apparitions and reports of monstrous pigs, prior to the 19th century, early journalists relied chiefly on civilian speculation and here say as their primary news source.

Though these news stories weren’t necessarily true, they weren’t technically false either. Well at least, that was the rationale.

This is because early journalism was merely viewed as another form of storytelling.

That being, reporters weren’t guided by the editorial standards of today, because they weren’t required to be. Rather, their stories were consumed for entertainment, instead of informative purposes.

A post-truth era So, why did contemporary journalism come to value fact over fiction, you ask?

The fourth estate Top online safety tips from last year’s Netsafety Week

1. Think twice before you engage

online and be respectful of others and our differences

2. Swipe left on fake news - Do you trust the source? Can you fact-check it?

Report fake news, don’t share it

3. Know your rights under the Harmful Digital Communications Act.

Today, we are exposed to more information in a matter of seconds, than our ancestors would have had access to in 24-hours (or more!)

The internet has opened the floodgates for the re-sharing and repurposing of news at a rate like never seen before. It’s also lowered the cost of publication and allows users to bypass previous regulation.

Given the information overload, it makes sense that people are looking for trusted news sources. However, it’s no secret that in the last couple of years, general trust in the western media has declined.

The Reuters Digital News Report 2020 displays that overall, global trust in the news is at its lowest point since records began in 2016.

There’s plenty of reasons as to why somebody might believe a fake news headline – or perhaps even feel compelled to publish falsehoods, themselves.

Covid-related uncertainty, political instability, personal bias, and online polarization, for instance, are all factors that feed misinformation spreading.

Last year a review of New Zealand’s media regulatory system was officially announced by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Jan Tinetti.

The existing system – which was designed in the early 1990’s – is not fit for purpose and does not have the flexibility to respond to the ongoing evolution of digital platforms, Tinetti explained.

The new regulatory framework will balance harm-reduction with protecting democratic freedoms – including freedom of expression, freedom of speech, and freedom of the press.

“Communities, content providers and the Government all have a role to play in reducing harm to individuals, society and institutions, so everyone can have their say on the proposed changes,” Tinetti said.

Ultimately, it’s important to recognise that the New Zealand media is accountable to monitoring agencies, as well as the law, and follows processes and principles around matters such as transparency.

Recent findings from the 2021 Trust in News in That’s more than can be said for your second NZ survey paint a similar picture, revealing that cousin’s Facebook status dispelling Covid as a government conspiracy. CT public trust in our national media fell from 53 percent in 2020, to 48 percent in 2021.

Some participants mentioned that they have lost trust in the media because of political bias and agenda-pushing. Others reported that news outlets offer opinions rather than factual news and well-researched information.

Since faith is low in traditional news sources, people are increasingly choosing to believe what they want to believe – which is made easier by social media, wherein it’s entirely possible to live undisturbed in your own personal echo-chamber.

For better or for worse, the internet has democratised news commentary, which means that now anybody, anywhere, can pose as a journalist if they so wish. Only, many of us were never prepared to have such a platform.

16 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Whether it’s by means of Facebook or somebody you know, it’s likely in the last year or two, you’ve had at least one of these rumours – all false – relayed to you: • Covid-19 is a foreign bioweapon • Climate change is a myth • 5G cellular network causes life-threatening illness.

News | Building Industry

Green building

List of changes in this year’s update:

1. Energy efficiency for housing and small buildings – Focusing on the level of insulation in Acceptable Solution H1/ AS1 and Verification Method H1/VM1

New Building Code requirements to deliver biggest energy efficiency change in over a decade The latest changes to the Building Code will make new homes and buildings warmer, drier and healthier, with less impact on the climate, says Jenni Tipler, manager of Building Performance and Engineering at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

The changes focus on increases to insulation requirements and introduce six new climate zones to reflect the specific weather experienced in different parts of New Zealand.

“These are the biggest energy efficiency changes to the Building Code in over a decade and will support the building and construction sector to help New Zealand reach its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050,” Jenni says.

“The new requirements will reduce the energy needed to heat homes by up to 40 percent, allowing people to heat their homes more easily and efficiently, which will lead to positive health impacts and increased energy savings for New Zealanders.

2. Energy efficiency for large buildings

– Focusing on the level of insulation in Acceptable Solution H1/AS2 and Verification H1/VM2

“One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to boost thermal performance is to increase roof insulation. That’s why we’ve decided to double the minimum amount of roof insulation required for new builds across the country.

3. Energy efficiency for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in commercial buildings – Introducing the Verification Method H1/VM3 for the energy efficiency of HVAC systems

4. Natural light for higher-density housing

“Windows represent the largest source of heat loss in new homes, so we are increasing the minimum insulation level for windows across the country, with a focus on targeted higher upgrades in colder climate zones.

“We recognise that regions across New Zealand have very different climates and the six new climate zones announced today mean buildings will need to be constructed to different insulation levels to reflect this.

“The new window insulation requirements in the warmest climate zones will see a two-step approach with an interim increase in the next year and an additional increase in the following year. By the end of 2023, all parts of the country will have a similar minimum level of window insulation requirements.”

The update to the Building Code is being made following a consultation that received more submissions than the last five years of updates combined, reflecting the high level of public interest in improving energy efficiency.

INDUSTRIAL SECURITY FENCING • TENNIS COURTS • POOL FENCING • LOCKUPS • CAGES • RAZOR WIRE • GATES • GATE AUTOMATION Reliable Service with Experience that Counts On-site Consultations Free Quotes

– Refreshing the Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods (AS/VMs) for clause G7 to ensure people have the sufficient amount of daylight for higher density housing.

5. Weathertightness testing for higher“When we consulted on the proposed changes earlier this year, we received overwhelming support for the changes from all parts of the sector,” she says.

“Over 98 percent of responses supported increases over the status quo in the shortest time possible.”

Further changes include introducing suitable daylight solutions and weathertightness testing for high density housing and the introduction of a verification method for the energy efficiency of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, making it easier to show compliance with the Building Code. CT

density housing – A revised a weathertightness testing method cited in Verification Method E2/VM2 that can be used to demonstrate that cladding systems are sufficiently weathertight.

6. Standards referenced in B1 Structure – Citation of four new standards used to demonstrate compliance for structural design in Acceptable Solution B1/AS1 and Verification Method B1/VM1.

7. Editorial changes to Acceptable

Solution B1/AS1 – Amended text within Acceptable Solution B1/AS1 to make editorial changes in regards to geotechnical requirements

join our journey engineering apprenticeship OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE WELDING FABRICATION

TRAINING SUPPORT

VARIETY OF PROJECTS

LEAN MANUFACTURING ENVIRONMENT

Phone (03) 342 4492

PO BOX 16-668, Christchurch www.fencingindustries.co.nz

Shane Kennedy Ph 027 4334 342 Dave Masterson Ph 027 4439 508

Located in Ashburton, Mid Canterbury, the centre of an agricultural district, growing town centre and close to the Mt Hutt Ski Field.

To apply, email your CV to Paul O’Keefe, paul@allencustomdrills.co.nz or visit our website, www.allencustomdrills.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 17

News| Health & Wellbeing

Natural health

Reaping the rewards of natural healing

By Megan Dunn

A sacred system of natural healing, doesn’t that sound wonderful? Well, this very system is right there waiting for us, where it’s been centuries, all we have to do is lay down and embrace it.

According to The Global Wellness Institute most models of wellness include at least six dimensions: Physical: Nourishing a healthy body through exercise, nutrition, sleep, etc.

Mental: Engaging the world through learning, problem-solving, creativity, etc.

The path to pursuit complete wellness is a lifetimes journey. It’s filled with many personal internal and external goals intended to serve the motion of thriving as oppose to simply surviving.

Emotional: Being aware of, accepting and expressing our feelings, and understanding the feelings of others.

Ruth Waters, owner of Relax, Restore Massage in Christchurch knows this all too well.

Social: Connecting and engaging with others and our communities in meaningful ways.

Overall wellness for mind spirit and body is in hot pursuit these days, with health and wellness culture being at it’s very peak here in 2021.

Environmental: Fostering positive interrelationships between planetary health and human actions, choices and wellbeing.

Not only do we discuss matters of wellness far more openly, we actively seek out and adapt new wellness offerings into our routine often, understanding its profound positive impact on our lives.

Spiritual: Searching for meaning and higher purpose in human existence.

One of the best ways to tap into your wellbeing is getting regular massages. The practice of massaging dates back to 3000 BCE (or earlier) in India and is known for its incredible healing properties.

It can relieve tension headaches, neck issues, Wellness is an umbrella term that varies slightly improve circulation, fight off inflammation, depending on who you speak to however, The improve general mobility and install a greater Global Wellness Institute expresses that sense of relaxation, wellbeing and general wellness is multi-dimensional and defines quality of life. it as “the active pursuit of activities, Ruth believes massages are essential to choices and lifestyles that lead to a state maintain great overall health in our hectic lives. of holistic health”.

“The connection between brain and body is unmatched during a massage. It creates that mental space and clarity that we often times lack.”

Mind-body connection is ‘the belief that the causes, development and outcomes of a physical illness are determined from the interaction of psychological, social factors and biological factors’.

“My clients are well aware of the benefits of their regular massages and report back feeling like ‘melted butter’ and ‘ironed out’.

“Massage is still viewed as something of a luxury or treat when really it should be included in our monthly wellness routine, it needs to be seen as essential like the dentist or doctor, it really is just part of looking after yourself.

“Some people come to me for specific physical issues, some love to chat or some use it as a complete downtime away from screens, noise and distractions, the experience is completely tailored to you”.

“One of my clients couldn’t turn her neck; after one session with me she was amazed that the tension lifted and she could move it again.

We’re in a wellness revolution where charcoal flavoured everything and influencer-based wellness advice dominates the industry.

“This is one of the things that I find too often, people become accustomed to and simply put up with pain and tension when a massage could help sort it all out,” Ruth says.

Stray away from the trendy and tap back into the trusted - add a massage routine into your wellness practise and see the results for yourself. CT

Bar, Grill & Brewery // We are a dog-friendly brewpub nestled overlooking the Kaiapoi River.

Open 7 days a week serving outstanding meals & craft beers.

Opening Hours: Mon - Wed from 12pm Thu - Sun from 10am

Five Peaks Brew Co

18 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

184 Williams Street, Kaiapoi

03 9262941

www.fivepeaks.kiwi

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

0800 88 00 18 | info@nzrecruit.co.nz

www.nzrecruit.co.nz

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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.

Dream Doors Adrian Kay has owned and operated Dream Doors Christchurch since 2012.

We believe a beautiful kitchen creates a place for family and friends to gather with love.

www.dreamdoors.co.nz

03 338 1081 | 027 338 1081 10A/1 STARK DRIVE, WIGRAM, CHRISTCHURCH

Dream Doors Christchurch has won the Dream Doors New Zealand Franchisee of the year, every year from 2013. Dream Doors Christchurch also won the prestigious Westpac Franchise Association of New Zealand “Franchisee of the year – Home Services” in 2017.

Dream Doors specialises in renovating and replacing kitchens as well as designing for new builds. We understand the importance of creating a fabulous and functional space in the heart of your home for you and your family. Spending time together is one of the greatest investments you can make. Something amazing happens when you prepare and share food.

Whether you require our facelifting approach to modernise

your kitchen, with new benchtops, doors and drawer’s fronts, or you require new cabinetry and layout, we will work with you to achieve your needs within your budget.

We will present you with a wide range of NZ made beautiful, quality product choices, and guide you through the decisionmaking process.

The Dream Doors team prioritise keeping disruption to a minimum for you and your family, with facelifting services often completed within one or two days. With an experienced and dedicated team, we are the trusted choice for your kitchen requirements.

Adrian and his team of skilled tradesman take great pride in their work and are ready to help you make your New Kitchen or Kitchen Renovation dreams come true. So, what are you waiting for? Get in contact with us today to supply all your kitchen renovating needs.

Canterbury owned and operated since 2003, Groundwork has stood the test of time with consistent reliability, professionalism and efficiency.

Reputable Feel free to ask around as we have thousands of happy customers.

Recognisable Look for our staff and vehicles in most sub divisions and construction sites in the canterbury region. Our staff are friendly and approachable.

Relationships We work with your building company, architect, builder or off your plans or we can advise you on renovations or new builds. We offer a design and quote service either off your plan or on site.

Reliable Efficiency and organisation are key to making the process of laying your concrete paths, patios or driveway as stress free as possible.

Reassurance With over 30 years in the construction industry, from roading through to building, our staff are all trained to the highest standards using the latest well maintained machinery to bring you the best quality job at the most affordable price.

0800 URDRIVE OR RICK 027 278 4039

20 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

We offer the full package from the start of project to the finished product.

• • • • • •

Driveways Paths and Patios Crossings and Entranceways Site Scrapes Carparks and Forecourts Outdoor Entertainment Areas

www.groundwork.net.nz

• • • • •

Service Areas Landscape Package Pathways and Laneways Concrete or Asphalt Commercial or Residential

Management | Logistics

Supply chain constraints pose ongoing infrastructure risk The New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, Te Waihanga, says New Zealand faces challenges in meeting demands for key construction materials for infrastructure, with a risk of delays to major projects.

These findings are among those detailed in Te Waihanga’s Infrastructure Resources Study, which looks at four key materials: aggregates such as gravel and stone, timber, cement/ concrete, and steel.

Te Waihanga chief executive, Ross Copland, says New Zealand is blessed with an abundance of natural resources, but over time various constraints have emerged which are limiting the supply of these resources, creating cost pressures, environmental challenges and access issues for important infrastructure projects.

“New Zealand has a wealth of physical resources at its fingertips, but this study highlights the need to better manage them to ensure they are available for our critical infrastructure projects.

“There are very few materials that do not have a suitable substitute, but bulky, low-value materials like sand, stone, and rock are unlikely to go out of fashion any time soon - they’re needed in almost everything we build from cycleways to cell phone towers and wind farms.

With a growing pipeline of major projects on the horizon we need to protect the availability of our best resources for generations to come.”

The study examines the importance of where our physical resources are located, most of which are beyond the major urban centres that consume them.

Transporting materials long distances increases the cost of projects, carbon emissions and adds to congestion on our roads.

The study also found that consent requirements often severely limit the efficiency of raw material production by imposing operating restrictions which constrain production and reduce output.

Ross says sustainably produced timber is a material with attributes that mean it will be in high demand for years to come.

Without ready access when they’re needed, “Recent advances in engineering and the we risk creating an unnecessary handbrake for need to reduce carbon emissions is leading the construction sector.” to a wider range of uses for timber including Ross says aggregates are the foundation of in multi-storey construction, but there are our roads and buildings, but often the closest obvious land-use implications to large-scale and best resources are under pressure from production forestry which need to be balanced housing and other incompatible developments. as well.

© @cassandrakovacsphotography

© @cassandrakovacsphotography

“This study finds that work needs to be done to both improve the domestic supply of sawn timber and look at the opportunities and risks of importing it. Research is also needed on how to best value the carbon benefits of timber as a construction material.

offers a promising future for low embodiedcarbon steel.”

“To address the carbon impacts of construction, we also need to do more research into alternatives to traditional production of cement and steel.

“New Zealand’s infrastructure resources have a critical role in the cost and ability to undertake infrastructure projects.

The study identified the need for more research into the impact of vertical integration on the physical resources market.

Based on this study, Te Waihanga has included recommendations for ensuring a secure supply “For example, the study finds that blending of these materials in our recently released draft cement with pozzolans can reduce the embodied carbon of cement by 25-30 percent. New Zealand Infrastructure Strategy, which we And exciting new research into steel production are currently working to finalise.” CT

production engineer SKILLS & EXPERIENCE Mig Welding | Experience essential, qualifications and or welding tickets of benefit but not essential.

MIG WELDING LIGHT - HEAVY FABRICATION

CAD Interpretation | Ability to read drawings and plans accurately.

Material | Understanding of materials and measuring accurately.

Forklift | Experience in operating, certificate, or license of benefit but not essential as can be provided.

VARIETY OF PROJECTS

Communication | Great written and verbal communication skills are important.

Time Management | Ability to work on tasks individually and as a team to meet deadlines.

Amuri Estate offers the ideal setting for your next function.

Just 10 minutes out of the alpine village of Hanmer Springs and only 90 minutes from Christchurch makes Amuri Estate perfect for business conferences and events. The new modern barn style building has a large reception hall with capacity for 200 people and a small meeting room with capacity for 20-60 people. Amuri Estate also features a small Lodge with 3 king rooms, a joint kitchen/ living area and a separate self-contained one-bedroom cottage. However, there are also unlimited options for accommodation in the nearby township and local transportation to take you to and from.

Health & Safety | A high regard to H&S, appreciate a clean and tidy workplace and have care for tools and equipment.

FOLLOWING CAD DESIGNS

This role is located in Ashburton, Mid Canterbury, the centre of an agricultural district, growing town centre and close to the well-known Mt Hutt Ski Field.

Annual Christmas closedown support, relocation packages, friendly and welcoming workplace ready to have you join!

To apply, email your CV to Craig Allen, craig@allencustomdrills.co.nz or visit our website, www.allencustomdrills.co.nz

FORKLIFT OPERATION

LEAN MANUFACTURING ENVIRONMENT

P. 027 5544 056 or 03 3155 351 E. amuriestate@gmail.com | amuriestate.co.nz

© @cassandrakovacsphotography

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 21

Feature | Lincoln University

Wellbeing embraced at Lincoln University Students are the core of Lincoln University.

This assertion is one of the values that guides it, along with leadership, innovation, and integrity.

This commitment to doing the right thing in a reliable way, and for student wellbeing, is because students are its “reason for being”.

This commitment can also give assurance to anyone considering studying there, to those who have family members enrolling, or to anyone in secondary education recommending Lincoln to their own students. They can be assured student wellbeing is paramount at the university.

Lincoln embraces being a close-knit community – a whãnau of around 3000 students – supported by a committed team of academics, lecturers, researchers, care providers and acknowledged wellbeing experts focused on assisting and guiding students to make the most of their experience, so that they will go on to make the most of their ambitions.

There are two concepts, or tools, utilised at Lincoln, which provide a framework for all other wellbeing initiatives.

The 5 Ways of Wellbeing is a simple but powerful tool which promotes including the five actions of connecting, being active, taking notice, keep learning, and giving, in our everyday lives at any time.

They include simple things such as talking and listening, and embracing new experiences, all highly relevant on campus.

Then there is Te Whare Tapa Whã, a Mãori Health Model with a holistic view of health and wellbeing. The model is depicted as a house, with each wall being equally and fundamentally important for our health, wellness and functioning.

The walls are Taha tinana (physical health), Taha wairua (spiritual health), Taha whãnau (family health), and Taha hinengaro (mental health).

It is being hailed as an exemplar for others to follow. It caters for all first-year students who are under 21-years-old, and is delivered by students, and is now in its fourth year.

Should one of the four dimensions be missing or in some way damaged, a person, or a collective may become ‘unbalanced’ and subsequently unwell.

The programme is run by the university’s Wellbeing and International Support team, and has recently been recognised by national body, Te Põkai Tara Universities New Zealand, as good practice and is promoted as one which sets a standard for others to follow.

The Respectfully Lincoln programme is based around these models, and it is the only compulsory course of its kind run in a New Zealand university.

It is designed to help students understand relationships and issues around consent as they move from school into tertiary study.

The workshop covers healthy sexual relationships, how pornography may influence understanding of relationships and consent, what consent is, how alcohol affects consent, and the law when it comes to harmful sexual behaviour.

Programme coordinator, Kathy Catton, said participation in Respectfully Lincoln comes at a time for the students when they may still be establishing their identities around sexuality and gender.

It utilises student presenters, encouraging participants to communicate with their peers, and deal with issues from a perspective they relate to.

The student facilitators have all received training in sexual harm prevention, and some have gone on from Respectfully Lincoln to create other wellbeing initiatives in the wider community.

Kathy said the course was initiated by former Wellbeing Manager, Dr Jackie Blunt, and other health professionals and university staff, at a time when issues around consent were being recognised worldwide through causes like the Me Too movement, and Thursdays in Black, an international campaign to raise awareness and progress towards a world without rape and violence.

22 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

The student facilitators have all received training in sexual harm prevention, and some have gone on from Respectfully Lincoln to create other wellbeing initiatives in the wider community.

There was a readiness to tackle issues around sexual consent, sexuality, and gender.

Students are asked to attend in their first semester at the university, and feedback on the course had been very positive.

“We talk about taboo subjects which students might not have the space to talk about elsewhere,” Kathy said.

Questions are asked around how you give consent and how others do. Alcohol and consent are also examined, with its impact on a person’s ability to communicate.

Students also examine their boundaries, their goals, and desires, and what they think other people’s may be.

“There is some initial apprehension from some students. They have the look of “what have I walked into?”, but it’s a safe place where they can explore difficult topics.”

“We are not going to say this is wrong or this is right. It’s a space for students to ask what do I think about this, and what do I want to do about this in my life?”

Feature | Lincoln University

There is a focus on wellbeing and safety practices, as well as ensuring student accommodation is safe and creating inclusive communities, and on how international learners should have access to the right information and support before and during their study.

We all have a role to play in creating change, Kathy said.

In the course they call it being an upstander –someone who sees potentially harmful behaviour, and has the courage to directly or indirectly intervene in a way that is safe for themselves and others.

“We have the opportunity as people who are aware of the behaviour, to stand up and stop it happening.”

Kathy is currently working on a programme around bullying and harassment prevention for online students, and on making Respectfully Lincoln more “conversational, with more graphics and videos.”

The code has 12 outcomes which include a focus on education providers taking a whole of organisation approach to learner wellbeing and safety, and that the learner voice is embedded into the organisation.

There is a focus on wellbeing and safety practices, as well as ensuring student accommodation is safe and creating inclusive communities, and on how international learners should have access to the right information and support before and during their study.

Lincoln has two International Student Advisors dedicated to supporting pastoral care and wellbeing needs of students who come from overseas.

A new code of practice for the pastoral They provide a comprehensive orientation care of domestic tertiary and international programme for international students, as learners came into effect on 1 January 2022. well as advice and support on how to adjust It covers how students should be respected to life and study in New Zealand. and accepted for who they are, supported in their learning and wellbeing, connected with their social and cultural networks and able to have their say in decisions about services.

However, some students may need more support to help them achieve their ambitions, so Lincoln is also committed to providing equity of access to education.

The Inclusive Education department supports students with learning and exams who are faced with the challenges of a disability, illness, or injury. It also assists those who have physical or mobility difficulties, injuries, Illnesses, mental health conditions, hearing or vision impairment.

The university also works to mitigate the impact that unforeseen events can have on wellbeing. During campus emergencies or incidents, alerts are pushed to users through the SAFELU app, which students are encouraged to download, to inform people of campus status and brief instructions.

Lincoln University Student Health Centre is also integral to wellbeing for students, offering counselling for a range of issues, such as relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, difficulty coping with grief and loss, and the impacts of trauma is also available to students.

It is also a tool to find support resources and contacts, report safety hazards and find emergency contacts.

Other programmes combine the benefits of physical and mental wellbeing, and how to cope with study pressures.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 23

Feature | Lincoln University Exercise is Medicine is a 12-session programme taken by a registered personal trainer focusing on activity aspirations whilst also including social, mental, physical, and emotional health aspects into the sessions.

It is based on the premise of exercise creating feelings of achievement and success that help balance your life and give a sense of progress.

Staff and students also come together to achieve wellness goals.

In the recent 10,000 Steps Challenge a combined team racked up more than 24 million steps to finish fourth in a transTasman competition aimed at getting people more active for their physical and mental wellbeing.

The 67 participants had an average of 364,270 steps over the six-week period of the event.

The initiative, which started in September and attracted the participation of 17 universities, encouraged staff and students to make behavioural changes to increase their daily levels of physical activity by taking 10,000 steps a day.

The challenge was promoted by the Lincoln University Wellbeing team, using the health models.

sharing their walk routes around campus and over hills and paddocks.

It is based on the premise of exercise creating feelings of achievement and success that help balance your life and give a sense of progress.

Staff and students also come together to achieve wellness goals.

24 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

To achieve their own individual health goals students also have access to the LU Gym included in their student fees, providing year-round access to the world-class facilities and fitness equipment.

The programmes and services offered by the University, in adherence to outside codes of practice, all support the strategic view of putting students at the core of everything it does, meaning a comprehensive and embracing focus for ensuring student wellbeing.

Prospective students and anyone recommending Lincoln as a study destination can be assured of the substantial efforts being made to ensure all their needs are met, in and out of the classroom.

The challenge had its own site on the university's social media platforms and giveaways encouraged participants to post and connect with each other.

Wellbeing - physical, mental, and social and spiritual, is prioritised and embraced at Lincoln, its efforts and programmes constantly adapting and growing to meet changing needs.

Even though the event began during a nationwide lockdown, the Lincoln team were enthusiastic about taking part. They kept up their steps throughout the challenge period,

To find out more about the fantastic range of wellness programmes at Lincoln University, head to www.lincoln.ac.nz, email grow@lincoln or call 0800 10 60 10.

Students are our core.

Grow at Lincoln.

Join us at Lincoln and be supported as you grow your future.

Support services, groups and programmes include; • Dedicated 24/7 on-site Lincoln accommodation team • Student Wellbeing • Sexual Harm Response & Prevention (SHRP) Team • Student Health • Inclusive Education • Te Manutaki (Māori and Pasifika Team) • Respectfully Lincoln • LTL (Learning, Teaching & Library) • Exercise is Medicine • LUSA (Lincoln University Students’ Association) • Te Awhioraki (Māori students’ association) • LUPISA (Lincoln University Pacific Island Student Association) • SPACE (LQBTQIA* student social/support group) • Chaplaincy

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Scholarships Thursdays in Black Whare Hākinakina (LU Gym) International Student Advisors SAFELU app The 5 Ways of Wellbeing Te Whare Tapa Whā Student Volunteer Army Handy Landy’s Australasian University Health Challenge (AUHC) Career Advisors Lincoln University Early Childhood Centre Muslim Society (club for students and staff) Accelerated Degree Pathways (for students needing extra academic support to start at University) PASS (Peer-assisted study sessions)

Learn more at www.lincoln.ac.nz

Learn more www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 25

www.lincoln.ac.nz

Finances | Accounting

Do you understand your numbers?

It may be a cliché but it is indisputable - cash flow is the lifeblood of any business.

Here are some top tips to keep on top of cash flow.

Cash inflows

Review customer credit history

Invoice promptly Don’t wait until the end of the month to send out invoices, invoice throughout the month.

If a customer has a history of slow payment, consider changing the credit terms by introducing a late payment finance charge, shortening their credit term or even eliminating credit entirely. You don’t have to offer the same terms of credit to all of your customers.

Communicate your credit terms Clearly state the payment due date on your invoices and statements as well as your bank account to encourage customers to make electronic payments.

Review your credit policy Often payment is required on the 20th of the month following invoice. However, if you invoice customers regularly throughout the month and issue one customer an invoice on the first of the month, you will wait around 50 days before getting paid. By comparison, an invoice issued on the last day of a month will be paid within 20 days. Consider adopting a payment policy of 30 days after the date of invoice.

Know your customer’s payment process Many larger corporates have a streamlined month end financial reporting process which may mean they stop processing invoices for payment a day or two prior to month end and after that the invoices are processed the following month. It is worth knowing if this is the case for your major customers so you can ensure your invoices reach their accounts payable process in time for prompt payment.

Prompt payment discount Offering discount for prompt payment may seem like a self-imposed reduction in revenue however consider the additional interest cost you are incurring to fund your customer’s late payment.

Accept payment by credit card Encourage customers to pay immediately by credit card. The customer still gets some free credit from the credit card company and may also get other benefits such as air points by paying on their credit card. While you will incur credit card charges, these may be outweighed by saving in interest cost otherwise incurred, as well as the time spent following up on overdue amounts.

Call customers prior to payment date Consider calling your customer before the payment date to confirm the goods are all in order and that the invoice will be paid on time This can be particularly useful if the invoice is larger than normal or if the customer has a history of querying your invoices.

Follow up late payments The longer a debt remains unpaid, the more likely it is to turn into a bad debt so make immediate contact when payment does not arrive on time. Be assertive but polite.

Document your conversation and follow up on any promises made. Use collection services when necessary but ensure the cost of doing so is reasonable for the amount you will recover.

Cash outflows Review and reduce costs Review all elements of expenditure and ask whether the benefit to your business exceeds the cost.

Regularly compare prices You will have seen advertisement for special prices to attract new customers, which can irk if you as a regular customer are expected to pay more! There is no harm in politely asking for the best price from your suppliers and using price comparisons where appropriate.

Consider alternative ways to achieve the same result For example, in a seasonal business how can you restructure staffing levels to better mirror the timing of revenue? If you do need to maintain excess staff over the off-season, what other tasks can those people do that will add benefit to your business?

Maximise supplier credit terms Many businesses require payment by the 20th of the month following invoice however some work on payment terms of 30 days after invoice. Don’t pay suppliers until you have to. Process two (or more) payment runs each month to take advantage of supplier credit terms.

subscriptions. In some cases, these can be paid by monthly instalments however a small financing cost may be incurred. If you opt for an annual lump sum payment, make sure you know when the payment is due and how much it will be so you can include this in your cash flow forecasts for the year.

Extend supplier credit terms Some suppliers offer extended payment terms of sixty or even ninety days, allowing you to keep money in your cash flow pipeline for longer. Be careful however not to overspend and be unable to pay supplier accounts as they fall due, particularly if your business experiences seasonal fluctuations.

Review your plant and equipment regularly and anticipate when items will need to be upgraded and replaced. Maintain an asset replacement schedule and incorporate the cost into your cash flow forecast.

Control your stock Sell slow moving stock, fashion or seasonal items at a discount, if necessary, to convert the stock to cash and re-invest that cash in more saleable stock items or use it to repay debt. Having cash tied up in slow moving stock items not only increases your businesses finance costs but also increases the warehouse space required.

Anticipate up-coming major costs Some major costs are incurred annually such as insurance, ACC levies, annual licensing or

Plan capital expenditure

Lease assets Funding the acquisition of major fixed assets may put added pressure on the business cash flow. Consider leasing assets rather than acquiring them outright to spread the cost over the life of the asset.

Plan income tax payments For most businesses, provisional tax is payable three times each year in August, January and May. In addition, if taxable income increases, you may not have paid sufficient provisional tax during the year and a ‘terminal’ tax may be payable to make up the shortfall. CT

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(03) 343 4448 6 SHOW PLACE | CHRISTCHURCH

Construction | Quality Building Services

Environmentally friendly building solutions It’s good to know that despite New Zealand’s remote location we are still privy to the latest global advancements in technologies, in this case heating and air ventilation systems.

Few would be able to match clients and their buildings with better solutions than Quality Building Services (QBS), which is a locally owned and operated company committed to delivering improved heating and ventilation systems to the local community.

Director Eddie Garden enjoyed many esteemed roles between entering the industry in 1989 and establishing QBS in 2011. He says people shouldn’t look at air conditioning, heating and ventilation systems as “just another appliance”.

Enlisting the help of a professional service provider like QBS makes all the difference when it comes to clients receiving maximum value for investment.

This is QBS’ main priority and what led Eddie to establish a company that offers a luxury many large companies can’t – taking the time to not rush through the job list.

Choosing the right system is key Not only is the right solution key to how inviting and comfortable your building is and how expensive it is to run, it is even believed to improve the health of the building’s inhabitants.

A common mistake non-professionals make, Eddie says, is not realising that there are different solutions specific to different climatic and functional conditions. The wrong choice can be costly.

About the company Quality Building Services provides commercial and industrial air conditioning and mechanical and ventilation systems, including: • Design and installation • IQP inspections • Preventative and proactive maintenance services • Energy saving assessments and implementations • Project management services • Peer reviews • Fault finding and repairs • Electrical services.

Newer buildings and buildings in warmer climates require a lower-watt appliance – but someone inexperienced could unknowingly select a higher-powered option that ends up costing them more than it needs to for the same amount of output.

Placement is another key factor when it comes to optimal function. Poor positioning could result in a solution that is ineffective at either

cooling, drying, ventilating or warming the space, yet still costly to run.

QBS only uses systems from major brands like Fujitsu, Mitsubishi Electric and Daikin that have decades-long records of success in local settings and climates.

The company ensures its staff attend all the latest training and education seminars provided by industry heavyweights and also conducts in-house reviews to monitor the effectiveness of the systems it uses.

As proof of its commitment to improving the community’s quality of life, QBS has sponsored the Canterbury Rugby Union with

its systems since 2012 and is one of very few companies who have maintained carbonzero certification since its establishment.

From August 2017, QBS will be operating out of a new, larger premises in Wilsons Road, Waltham from where it can increase its workshop capabilities.

Quality Building Services 3/308 Wilsons Road Christchurch (03) 365 8943 0274 381 440 eddie@qbsl.co www.qbsl.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

QUALITY BUILDING SERVICES LIMITED QBS are committed to improving outstanding quality heating, ventilation and air conditioning solutions and services to all our customers. Attention to detail not only gives staff pride in their work, but provides our customers with exceptional solutions.

We provide commercial and industrial air conditioning, mechanical and ventilation solutions including: • • • •

Design and Installation IQP Inspections Preventative and proactive maintenance services Energy saving assessments and implementations

• • • •

Project Management services Peer reviews Fault finding and repairs Electrical services

Phone: 03 365 8943 After Hours: 027 438 1440 3/308 Wilsons Road, Opawa Christchurch | eddie@qbsl.co | www.qbsl.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 27

Transport | Transporting New Zealand

Trucking contributes to the economy in good and bad times Truck drivers moving freight around the South Island and to and from the rest of New Zealand made a huge contribution to New Zealand surviving 2021 – which was a year we don’t want to repeat in a hurry.

In addition to navigating year two of Covid-19, complete with more lockdowns, the South Island experienced some wild winter weather that took out roads and bridges, always a challenge for an already stretched supply chain.

Road freight transport is a big part of New Zealand’s supply chain, moving 93 percent of goods around the country, including the valuable exports to ports to be sent off to markets around the world, and distributing all the imported goods we need.

Globally, the movement of goods from country to country has been stretched during the Covid-19 pandemic. Outbreaks of the virus

Nick Leggett CEO, Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand.

have restricted manufacturing, distribution, and port activities around the world.

As a small, far away market at the bottom of the world, New Zealand doesn’t have much might when it comes to the global supply chain. Ships have bypassed us to service bigger, more lucrative markets and we expect the shortage of imported goods to be enduring through 2022.

While much of the rest of the world has opened up for people and trade, New Zealand hasn’t and so we just have to wear that other countries that are easier to do business with will be in line ahead of us.

In New Zealand, Covid-19 has put a lot of important projects on hold, or delayed completion of them, including roading and infrastructure projects.

Transporting New Zealand worries about how long it will take to get these back on track with workforce shortages, a shifting list of priorities, and some massive bills in the wake of Covid-19 to be reconciled.

Winter added more stress to the roads and in early June, the South Island became an island of two halves, as flooding caused the Ashburton Bridge on State Highway 1 to be closed after motorists reported they could

feel it slumping underneath them. There was no alternate route south as all the other roads were also closed with flooding.

It is pretty major when the main highway of New Zealand isn’t functioning. It was estimated about 21,000 vehicles went over the bridge on week days and about 30,000 a day on the weekends.

It went from fully closed, to being open some of the time and closed for repairs at others to get back to full function fairly quickly, but it was another example of how susceptible to natural disasters our infrastructure is – something Cantabrians are well aware of.

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Valid until the 31st March 2022 Excludes all insurance related work

Transport | Transporting New Zealand The trucking industry is always pretty determined to get the goods through, no matter what happens and some truck drivers with essential goods opted for a 13-hour diversion to head south of Ashburton, going via Lewis Pass and down through the West Coast.

We are a resilient industry and trucking operators take their customer commitments very seriously. We have certainly seen this through the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic.

At the start of the pandemic and with the first lockdown, Transporting New Zealand worked quickly to establish truck drivers as essential workers. We found the Government didn’t have a full understanding of how the supply chain works and how finely tuned it is.

While trucks are allowed to deliver the goods no matter what, it puts stress on drivers and operators.

Lockdowns are lonely on the roads and we found with councils closing toilet facilities, motels closed, and food outlets closed, basic health and safety and security became issues we had to turn our minds to.

But essential medical supplies, food, livestock, fuel and all manner of other vital goods need to be moved around every day. Pretty much everything you need every day spends some time on the back of a truck.

For this reason, trucking makes a significant contribution to the New Zealand economy. The road freight transport industry employs 32,868 people (about 2.0 percent of the workforce) and has a gross annual turnover of $6 billion.

Road freight is the only away New Zealand’s primary producers can get their products off

You can be sure whatever happens, trucks will be on the road with dedicated drivers making sure you get everything you need, when you need it.

the land and into processing, supermarkets, and export markets.

As well, almost all manufacturing requires trucks to transport in raw materials and to transport out the finished goods. Housing and construction, as well as major infrastructure builds that boost our economy, also rely heavily on trucks.

The geography of New Zealand is partially responsible for the heavy reliance on trucks to move goods as all communities in New Zealand are connected by road. Customers also want personalised, door-to-door service with goods delivered on time and at the best cost.

Given its indispensable role keeping the New Zealand economy moving, and the huge freight task it carries out, the commercial road freight fleet is a small proportion, less than four percent, of the total number of vehicles on the road.

According to the Te Manatū Waka - Ministry of Transport there are about 4.4 million licenced vehicles in New Zealand. Of these, about

150,000 are heavy vehicles, but that includes buses and motor homes.

infrastructure projects underway, and a sense of moving on from Covid-19.

About 30,000 trucks are used for commercial freight, and almost all of those involved in long distance trips will also tow heavy trailers.

You can be sure whatever happens, trucks will be on the road with dedicated drivers making sure you get everything you need, when you need it.

Like many industries in New Zealand, truck driving faces a worker shortage, and an ageing workforce. To combat this, Transporting New Zealand launched a traineeship programme in April 2021, Te ara ki tua Road to success. We work with trainees and the employers who take them on to ensure a career path, with training and rewards.

About Transporting New Zealand In Aotearoa New Zealand, 93 percent of the goods you rely on every day are transported around the country on the backs of trucks. We are transporting New Zealand.

As the national voice for the road freight transport industry, Ia Ara Aotearoa Like most other New Zealanders, we are Transporting New Zealand, advocates to hoping 2022 will bring a more settled business ensure trucking businesses can grow operating environment with open borders, a and prosper, and continue to drive the New freeing up of the supply chain, better roads and Zealand economy. CT

Quality Without Compromise $40 WOF FOR CARS $25 WOF FOR TRAILER/ MOTORCYCLE S

Ph: 327 0700 www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 29

Transport | Transporting New Zealand

RO Jones Panelbeaters Over the past 30 years, the “original” RO Jones Panelbeaters has developed a first-class reputation for providing not only exceptional vehicle repair services, but services that are orientated around a greener and a more sustainable future.

Customer satisfaction is our priority. Indeed, our customers come back to us not only for quality of work, but for who we are and the values we uphold.

With a lifetime guarantee on all repair work, we are certain that you will have your vehicle returned in pristine condition. Our workmanship is highly rated by leading insurance companies such as IAG.

A greener future We strive to be a market leader in using sustainable products by operating under a sustainable business model.

Every year that passes, the need to protect our planet increases. From implementing efforts to reduce greenhouse emissions to banning plastic bags, we are already seeing the efforts being undertaken not only in So, pop on down to our brand-new offices, just New Zealand but globally to create a more below the Durham Street bridge in Sydenham. sustainable pathway into the future.

We aim to make our customers feel like We are committed to being part of that they’re not walking into a messy workshop, our modern office has been designed to be a process. All of our cars are repaired using relaxed and inviting space for you to come in water-based paint imported from Germany and we also use environmentally friendly and chat to us. car polish.

Come down and see us today, no bookings We will continue to mould and adapt into the necessary. You can trust the team at RO future to continue to develop our efforts to Jones to get you back in your vehicle as reducing our impact on the environment. soon as possible!

Health & safety

We are committed to working under strict health & safety regulations by providing a safe environment for our employees to work in.

Our stringent health & safety practices are qualified under PREQUAL, a New Zealand based initiative that ensures our workplace is a safe environment and that the team at RO Jones can be trusted to work safely and get the job done. Click the link here to find out more information.

Our team is excited to continue to minimise our impact on the environment by using only water-based paint, and environmentally friendly carwash and polish.

Customer based Something that really sets us apart from standard panel beater services is our unwavering commitment to our loyal customer base. We really do put in the effort to go above and beyond for our customers as we understand how stressful it can be having a car accidentbig or small.

We acknowledge that we have a huge part to play in minimising the stress involved in the process and always offer a friendly face or some expert advice to help ease your mind.

Services

With a lifetime guarantee on all repair work, we are certain that you will have your vehicle returned in pristine condition.

Our workmanship is highly rated by leading insurance companies such as IAG.

30 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

We are a full service panelbeater. No matter the job, we’ve got you covered. Our skilled team has the work ethic, attention to detail and experience to get any dent, paint work, scratch or collision repaired to the highest level.

We return all vehicles fully cleaned and groomed to our customers.

• Loan cars available If you’re worried about having no way of getting around town, we have a fleet of loan cars available to keep you on the road while we take care of the important stuff.

• Private vehicle repairs

Our services include: • Insurance repairs We understand the inconvenience of having an accident, having your parked car driven into or being rear-ended. RO Jones Panelbeaters work closely with all the major insurance companies when it comes to repairing your vehicle.

All you need to do is make the insurance claim and to let them know that RO Jones is your preferred repairer. Leave the rest up to us to get your vehicle back in a timely manner.

Unlike many collision repair specialists we also offer repairs for private vehicles.

If you’ve got a minor ding, paint peeling off, signs of rust or a cracked window, you can come to us to get it sorted.

• Interest free payment options Don’t fret, we know that getting your vehicle repaired can be expensive. No matter if it’s minor or major work needed!

We work with a flexible interest free payment provider, just in case you can’t pay the full amount right away.

The ‘Original’ RO Jones Panelbeaters

Working for a Greener Future No matter the job, we’ve got you covered.

Our skilled team has the work ethic, attention to detail and experience to get any dent, paint work, scratch or collision repaired to the highest level. Returning all vehicles to our customers fully cleaned and groomed.

Striving to be market leaders Using sustainable products and operating under a sustainable business model.

All of our cars are repaired using water-based paint and polished with environmentally friendly car polish.

We continue to mold and adapt into the future, developing our efforts to reduce our impact on the environment.

Phone: 03 366 3483 Email: cityaccounts@rojones.co.nz 10 Cass Street, Sydenham, Chch, 8023 7.30am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 31

Transport | Fleet Vehicles

Improving the safety of vehicle fleets With accidents occurring on the road every day, vehicle safety is a huge concern in New Zealand.

result in drowsiness and inattention, both predominant causes of traffic accidents.

Owners of vehicle fleets in NZ seem to be becoming more aware of the need to prioritise safety in their vehicles.

There is a push towards increasing the awareness of the need to improve vehicle safety.

For every fleet of vehicles, safety should be made the main priority.

Taking care of your fleet Fleet vehicles are an important tool for many building and contracting businesses. But like any tool, they need to be looked after.

Insurance Work

Specialising in

PANEL BEATING & SPRAY PAINTING Cars • Trucks • Buses Horse Floats & Motorhomes Caravans • Trailers Farm Machinery • Jet Boats Light Engineering and Aluminium Welding 17 Range Street (Industrial Estate) Ashburton P. 307 0378 | 0274 274 007 E. busandtruckbodywork@xtra.co.nz

Safety is not the sole responsibility of the drivers, however – it’s also the technicians, dispatchers, and upper management who are responsible.

One way that many Kiwi businesses keep their drivers safe is through regular fleet servicing.

A regular service can detect many issues with cars and other vehicles before they escalate to the point of causing damage.

It ensures that thorough safety checks are performed, and preventative maintenance is completed to avoid accidents or time off the road.

Many business owners in NZ are now upping the technology used in their fleets as another safety measure.

All fleet vehicles require regular inspections and maintenance, and need a current warrant of fitness or certificate of fitness.

Adaptive cruise control, collision warning systems, and lane departure warning systems are now integrated into many vehicles. Speed monitoring is another popular safety option that can contribute to reducing accidents.

Vehicles that are well maintained are less likely to be out of service for extended periods and are less likely to be involved in crashes.

However, being used by many people, some fleet vehicles can have a hard life and receive rough treatment, resulting in damage and scratches.

More fleets are also having cameras installed to provide more information about the reason that a driver may have been suddenly braking or accelerating. This can help to detect the difference between an unavoidable incident and a driver who may need some coaching.

One crucial way of managing safety on the road is by reducing the driving hours of workers.

Whether it’s a fleet of trucks or cars, staff should not be expected to drive for more than 13 hours a day. However, in terms of safety, less is even better. Longer hours can

Shepherd and Kime Collision Repair co-owner Gerard Kime advises business owners to get any damage repaired quickly.

“Having a scratched and damaged vehicle is not a good advertisement for any business.

A tatty fleet vehicle is not a good look.”

A damaged vehicle could also be dangerous, and needs prompt attention.

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Transport | Fleet Vehicles

Checking fleet vehicles before use • A simple check before driving any fleet vehicle can ensure it is safe and could reduce the need to deal with unexpected breakdowns, meaning long-term savings for your business.

• As a minimum, drivers should check that: • Tyres are inflated with close-to-equal pressure and have a legal tread depth with no uneven wear • There’s no obvious damage to the vehicle that could be considered dangerous • Indicators, tail lights and brake lights operate correctly and the lenses are not cracked or broken

“Whenever there is damage, whether it’s a scratch or a more serious problem, it needs to get fixed straight away,” he says.

• Wheel nuts (where they can be seen) are in place and the wheels appear undamaged • Headlights work on both high and low beam and lenses are not cracked or broken • Windscreen washers and wipers operate satisfactorily • The horn operates satisfactorily • The vehicle registration and WoF or CoF are current (as well as the road user charges label if you have a diesel or heavy vehicle) • Safety belts are in good condition • The engine fluid levels (water and oil) are correct.

Shepherd and Kime repairs fleet vehicles for a number of Christchurch businesses, with damage ranging from minor scratches received in car parks to major problems resulting from collisions.

“Every case is different – there is nothing that stands out as a repetitive damage problem.”

Airbag (SRS) Specialists

Well-managed fleets can reduce company costs – vehicles that are maintained safely and efficiently cost less to run, improve productivity and contribute to safer roads.

Leading auto electrical centre in Christchurch

As well as regular maintenance, Gerard recommends giving vehicles a clean every week. Many fleet vehicles are on lease, and he advises getting them tidied up, including a polish, before sending them back to the lease company. CT

Stop in at our workshop or call us Phone (03) 348 7736 | 5 Leslie hills drive Riccarton www.riccartonauto.co.nz

Fix Faults FAST Reduce maintenance costs / Repairs done right / Responsive and flexible

BRINGING YOU THE FULL RANGE OF PREMIUM AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES With 90 years of combined experience, we provide top quality, affordable mechanical, electrical and hydraulics services to the Christchurch area, Mighty Kiwi Commercial have the expertise to provide you with the very best quality care for your vehicle.

Mechanical

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Phone: 03 38 444 76 Email: admin@mightykiwi.com Address: 22b Lane St Woolston, Entrance off Mcrae St Website: mightykiwi.com www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 33

Transport | Shepherd & Kime

Transport | Premium Tyres & Auto

Over 50 years of collision repair services

Premium care for your car

Shepherd & Kime Ltd has been doing collision repairs in Christchurch since 1966. Over the years, the business has kept up with the latest technologies to provide the high-quality services customers have grown accustomed to.

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

With two Christchurch branches, in Linwood and Bromley, they are conveniently located for ease of access.

“People can drive in, leave their car, get their warrant done, any repairs and servicing, then drive away. It’s very convenient to have it all at one place, and people really appreciate that, especially the tradies.

Aside from business owners Gary Shepherd and Errol Kime retiring and selling the collision repair shop to David Kennedy and Gerard Kime in 2006, very few things have changed for the business.

When asked how the shop has withstood the test of time, Shepherd & Kime Ltd coowner Gerard Kime says, “I think it comes down to our good service. We try to keep the customer experience as a whole as high quality as we can give.

“We like to give good, fast turnarounds because we don’t like people being off the road for too long. We just like to do a quality repair, really. We’ve got a pretty good crew on deck.”

In order to get customers back on the road, Gerard says that the team does its best to keep up to date with all of the latest gear, spray ovens, and chassis electronic measuring systems.

In addition to adopting new technologies, the team is always looking to perfect its process so that repairs are done in an efficient manner.

Considering the customer’s point of view, Gerard says, “A lot of the time, when they’ve had a ding, it’s not their fault and they are a little upset when they arrive here on our doorsteps so we’re just trying to make the repair process as painless as possible.

“Normally we get the vehicle, photograph it, basically get all of the vehicle’s details, the owner’s details. We send them away again if it’s drivable and then we process the claim and get it submitted and as soon as it’s cleared and we get the parts here on site we’ll book them in with a loan car.”

You can trust the team at Shepherd & Kime to sort out the parts needed to fix your vehicle so that the quote you get at the start of the process is what you pay when the job is done.

Customers can bring their vehicles to the Shepherd & Kime shop on Sheffield Crescent or its new location on Selwyn Street. The Selwyn Street shop was purposefully fitted out for the business’s panel and paint services and equipment.

• WOF and WOF repairs • Full vehicle servicing • Full range of new and used tyres • Wheel balancing and alignment • Fitting mag wheels • Puncture repairs • Brakes • CV joints • Shock absorbers and suspension repairs • Batteries.

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

Premium Tyres & Auto has all the latest vehicle diagnostic technology in their fully-equipped workshop, and fully trained and qualified staff.

Don says along with having everything you would expect in a modern, well-equipped auto The team at Premium Tyres & Auto provide a full servicing shop, what makes Premium Tyres & Autos stand out is the effort they make to do service for all makes and models of cars, fourtheir best for their customers. CT wheel drives, vans and light trucks.

They also carry an extensive range of new and used tyres for cars, vans, light trucks and four-wheel drives and provide a free fitting and balancing service on all the tyres they sell.

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.

Premium Tyres & Autos 222 Linwood Avenue Linwood (03) 3805020 027 766 7354 office.premiumtyres@xtra.co.nz www.premiumtyres.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Whichever shop you take your vehicle, you can trust Shepherd & Kime to get the job done right the first time. Gerard says, “We’re just trying to supply a good service to the Christchurch people.”

Shepherd & Kime Ltd 440 Selwyn Street Addington Christchurch (03) 366 8256 admin@sandk.co.nz www.shepherdandkime.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Our skilled technicians have many years of professional experience in this industry and aim to get you mobile as soon as possible.

We offer a full range of collision repair services including Free loan vehicles / Pick up and delivery / Competitive rates Guaranteed workmanship / FREE QUOTES Shepherd & Kime Ltd: 440 Selwyn Street P. 366 8256 | M. 021 669 308 | E. admin@sandk.co.nz Shepherd & Kime 2008 Ltd: 35 Sheffield Crescent P. 348 4448 | E. sheffield@sandk.co.nz

www.shepherdandkime.co.nz 34 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“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.

Premium Tyres & Autos services include:

Premium Tyres & Auto 222 LINWOOD AVE CHRISTCHURCH

WOFS • BRAKES • SERVICING • REPAIRS • WHEEL ALIGNMENTS

New & secondhand tyres at great prices 10% DISCOUNT off retail price when you mention this ad Call Don – Ph (03) 380 5020 Mob: 027 7667 354 Email: premiumtyres@xtra.co.nz www.facebook.com/PremiumTyresAuto | www.premiumtyres.co.nz

Transport | Autolights

Autolights Autolights is a locally owned and operated sales and repair shop for automotive and truck lighting solutions based in Christchurch.

Operating conveniently out of our Sydenham workshop, we have a large range of new and second-hand lights in stock with new stock arriving daily.

We have extensive networks throughout New Zealand and the world where we can source hard-to-find stock and have a huge range of lights at our Christchurch store for anyone who needs it.

Our team offers an extensive repair service including plastic welding of light bodies (lugs, cracks, etc), headlight refurbishment, headlight and taillight dry-outs and reseals, crack repairs, adjuster problems, and electrical issues including High-Intensity Discharge (HID) bulbs, as well as headlight and fog light alignments.

Our services also include taking care of corner lights, bumper lights, lens refurbishing, and repairs to LED lights.

Some specific light repairs we offer are Hyundai Santa Fe Daytime Running Light (DRL) issues, BMW F20 (1 Series) LED taillight issues, and HSV E-series taillights where we repair the faded reflectors and LED issues.

We stock a vast range of headlight and taillight bulbs including HID and other hard-to-find requirements.

We have a range of aftermarket lighting solutions including daytime running lights, spotlights, LED light bars, and trailer light sets.

When you come to us with a problem, we can offer a full repair service from correcting alignment to drying out headlights and replacing bulbs.

Come and see us for your WoF lighting solutions Visit our website for more information such as testimonials from previous clients, more information on what we do, a bit about our company and to contact us for a quote. http://www.autolights.co.nz/ Feel free to check out our Facebook page as well, so you can find more ratings and reviews on our Autolights services.

If you’re interested in enquiring, please get in touch by phone: 0800 377 202 or (03) 377 2020, or email: sales@autolights.co.nz.

Alternatively head into our Christchurch store on 94 Buchan Street, Sydenham.

Our store is open from Monday to Thursday 8am - 5pm, and Friday 8am - 4pm.

We look forward to being of service to you.

We can offer a full repair service from correcting alignment to drying out headlights and replacing bulbs.

We have a plastic welder on-site so we can repair broken or cracked lights fast and efficiently while you wait.

Our convenient corner location has plenty of on-site parking and our workshop can accommodate the largest vehicles.

We send lights around New Zealand, so if you’re not in Christchurch we can still assist with your requirements A full fitting service is also available.

Demio headlights: Before

Demio headlights: After

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0800 377 202

AT AUTOLIGHTS WE SPECIALISE IN NEW AND USED AUTOMOTIVE LIGHTS Offering a full repair service, from correcting alignment to drying out headlights and replacing bulbs.

With a plastic welder on site, we can repair your light quickly and efficiently, in many cases while you wait.

Open Hours Mon - Thurs 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Fri 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

P (03) 377 2020 E sales@autolights.co.nz www.autolights.co.nz

94 Buchan Street, Sydenham, Chch www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 35

An Understanding of the Car Industry’s Needs generated

OEM Audio Ltd

OEM Audio Ltd (Est. 2009) is 100% NZ owned.

Selling direct to the public and dealerships throughout Australasia.

You’ll find a wide range of Lumina Audio aftermarket car audio head units as well as EV Power EV Charging products. Available online and from our Sydenham premises.

The Lumina Audio range of great-looking head units have a range of features to make your travels safer, smoother and definitely more enjoyable. Multimedia units offer more than just music. You can enjoy Bluetooth, maps, entertainment, and a crisp reverse camera image. With Apple CarPlay/Android Auto you can send and receive text messages, plan your map route and so much more, all via voice control.

Lumina Audio stereo units will fit many different car brands and use existing steering wheel controls.

We offer professional installation.

Make a booking today.

Ph: 03 365 2666 | E: sales@oemaudio.co.nz Since 2016 OEM has been supplying EV Power Electric Vehicle charging products. Paul’s passion for EVs started earlier - he imported the very first Toyota Prius into New Zealand. EV Power products are safe and popular making OEM Audio New Zealand’s leading supplier. Whether you need a wall charger, or charging cable or just some advice come in, have a chat and view the range.

18 Coleridge Street, Sydenham, Christchurch

36 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Services | FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire

Your fire protection services solution You only want the best when it comes to protecting your employees, business and assets in the event of a fire. Installing and maintaining fire protection systems is highly specialised and challenging.

“We are truly a one-stop shop. With over 20 years’ experience in the fire protection industry, we have designed and installed all types of special hazard systems. This includes gas suppression systems, foam fire suppression systems, deluge systems and aspirating systems. The list goes on and on,” Kirstin says.

“Protecting people and critical assets from damage or destruction by fire is fundamental to any company or organisation,” FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire Ltd, co-director Thorben Hoffschneider says.

“We have recently installed fire protection systems at Nelson Airport, K-Mart Blenheim, and are currently engaged as the fire protection contractor at the new Summerset Richmond main building development.

Kirstin Smith, co-director of FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire Ltd, knows the company’s quality-focus is what keeps bringing customers back.

“We know and understand the market in the Nelson and Marlborough. Our clients know they can count on us to complete a project on time and on budget and compliant with all the legal standards. We are proud of the long-term and trusted relationships we have formed with our clients,” Thorben says. CT

“We are the company of choice for most of the major businesses in Nelson and Marlborough region when it comes to the installation and on-going maintenance of fire protection systems, management of BWOF and building compliance schedules.

“We focus on delivering quality of service, workmanship and advice to our customers,” Kirstin says.

People-oriented The team of FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire is trained, experienced and beyond competent regarding fire protection systems.

“We are very proud of our team. They are problem solvers with a ‘can do’ attitude to get any job done. There is no challenge out there that we can’t help our clients to overcome,” Thorben says.

FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire believes in investing in its staff for both technical and health and safety training. As a result, a number of its team has been with the company for between 6-10 years.

History of performance

FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire Limited 12A Elms Street Stoke Nelson (03) 548 2640 office@ffpnelson.co.nz www.ffpnelson.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Hospitality | Earl and the Pink Lady Rooftop

Buon appetito at Earl

By Natasha Parrant

Earl is an exceptional dining experience with wonderful food made from simple traditional recipes.

The taste and atmosphere of the bistro will make you feel like you’re somewhere in Europe for the day.

Served by friendly floor staff, Earl is incredibly unique with its playful pasta, fresh seasonal dishes, international wine list, and its upbeat, bright vibe.

Located on Litchfield Street, in the heart of the gritty SALT district in Christchurch is what makes this little inner-city local an enduring favourite any night of the week.

Earl has long wooed Christchurch’s hungry Italophiles since it opened in 2018.

Front and centre on the ordering agenda is the perfectly tender calamari fritti - followed by a main-sized serving of the house-made pasta or locally caught market fish.

Get the full experience with a few glasses of Aperol spritz or a bottle of Europe’s finest red.

FIRE ▪ HVAC ▪ BACKFLOW ▪ PIPE ▪ FABRICATION

Earl offers a coastal European-inspired menu for lunch and dinner, including its now famous pasta and wine night, which was conceived during Covid-19, and is now the main stayer which features every Tuesday night.

You can choose from a selection of rotating house-made pasta and a glass of wine for $25!

“Kristin tops the longevity stakes, though.

She’s been with the company for over 20 years and knows all our clients. Her role is very important when it comes to maintaining trust and good relationships with clients,” Thorben says.

Scope of services PROUD SUPPLIER TO PROUD SUPPLIER TO Prevention and preparation are crucial should disaster strike in the form of a fire. FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire installs fire alarms, fire www.hydroflowfire.co.nz sprinkler systems, passive fire protection, Auckland: 09 448 5844 Christchurch: 03 341 1048 maintains and tests those systems and also carries out building warrants of fitness.

The chefs at the bistro are passionate about the food they serve and aim to provide the best dining experience that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Earl is unique compared to other city restaurants because from the moment you open the front door, you’re transported to a comforting atmosphere, alive with the anticipation of a great dinner.

Earl has a menu Cantabrians can recite by heart as they showcase the greatest hits that you have loved year after year tweaked to the season and trend.

Tom is all about bringing together the rich local ingredients with culinary traditions from across the globe.

Whether it be a first date, celebratory dinner, or simply sharing a glass of wine with family and friends, you know you’re going to be looked after.

Trust Tom when he says, “don’t skip on the focaccia, made in-house each day, served complimentary with Spanish olive oil and smoked bread. It’s some of the best you’ve ever had!”

The team is incredibly passionate about what they do, which is clear from the energy throughout the dining room, open kitchen, food, and community that is at the forefront of everything they do.

It feels like everyone’s best friend, fancy-free The main dining room is centered around an and with the type of energy we all need in open kitchen with stone benchtops, oak wood our lives. décor, and neutral colours providing a warm and Get a table, settle in, and let the team guide you relaxing atmosphere. with the chef’s tasting menu or sample from So, how did Earl come about in the first place? dishes with a classic bistro influence, that have respect for what the changing seasons and local Tom Newfield co-owns many of your favourite dedicated suppliers are offering, all of which restaurants, bars, and venues in the CBD area. work well with wine. CT He has also opened Pink Lady Rooftop, Bottle Visit: www.earl.co.nz and and Stone, and Welles Street Pub, so you can www.pinkladyrooftop.co.nz. count on Earl doing something different.

W E T J AC K E T W I N E S

Proud to work with locals like FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire CL967A

Your insurance sorted

To purchase any of these delicious wines please email hello@wetjacket.co.nz or call 03 4418383

03 543 9021 crombielockwood.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 37 CL967A CLMB FFP fire ad 124mm(w) x 60mm(h) V1.indd 2

20/01/22 10:30 AM

Destinations | Fiordland, Stewart Island and The Catlins

All signs point to the south

By Megan Dunn

In honour of three of the most beautiful places in the South Island, let’s take a look at what all of these special places have to offer: Fiordland, Stewart Island, and the Caitlins… and the offerings are absolutely magnificent.

Your Catlins Adventure begins here!

The Catlins is a natural wonder of New Zealand, featuring many rare species of wildlife and earthly formations, including colossal sea caves, magnificent waterfalls, mirror lakes and a prehistoric petrified forest. Take a moment to disconnect from the hectic city life for a well- earned getaway and a welcomed change of scenery. Take a deep breath.

Base yourself in the heart of it all, in a central location for all your exploring and refuelling needs. The Whistling Frog offers the widest range of accommodation, it’s even dog friendly! Access a range of holiday park amenities and wake up to the songs of the native birds while nestled amongst the rainforest. Free wifi makes it easy to share your daily moments on social media.

Explore the seaside settlement of Papatowai, featuring the local “Country Store”, galleries and beach walks. Located just behind the country store, “Blonde Betty”, a 1983 Bedford Ambulance, has been given a full transformation into “Peake’s Kitchen”. Owned and operated by Tom and Nicole Peake, it is definitely an experience to add to your bucket list. This gourmet food truck has gained growing popularity for its flavoursome menu and Kiwiana flair, complete with nostalgic games while you relax.

The Catlins is not a place to rush through, but a great area to stay a while, with plenty to occupy your time. Most attractions are FREE. 38 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Some require low tide access or wildlife best viewed as the sun rises or sets. The rainforest comes to life rain or shine, the ocean changes colour to a vibrant turquoise when the light hits it just right and the sandy beaches stretch for miles. The Catlins is great all year round, and best enjoyed October - May. Start planning your adventure today!

Destinations | Fiordland, Stewart Island and The Catlins Let’s just begin this by saying wow. Wow, because the South Island holds some of the most magical treasure troves in all of Aotearoa, brimming with the unique and spectacularly jaw dropping scenery New Zealand is renowned for.

One of the hiccups of Covid is it preventing Kiwis from jumping on a plane and travelling overseas (very sorry for the reminder) and whilst this was a restrictive sore spot for many, it also gave us as Kiwis the unique experience to explore what is right under our very feet, our beautiful Aotearoa.

Once we were told it was not an option to leave, it promoted the rare opportunity for Kiwis to head out and visit every corner of our nation, and it left many shocked that they had never thought to do so sooner, as they realized just how much they had overlooked.

The grandeur of the rugged South, a certain breed of impressive yet some degree intimidating, is highlighted as one of the best spots Kiwis have visited during their recent domestic travels.

According to research from Tourism NZ, more than 60 percent of Kiwis have visited somewhere new in the past year, which is absolutely fantastic, considering some Kiwis hadn’t even visited the South Island prior to this.

Fiordland, located in the South-West corner of the South Island is a spot not to be missed, home to Fiordland National Park, a recognized World Heritage Site, that is without a doubt one of the most breathtaking areas in all of New Zealand.

It has been carved out by glaciers that are thousands of years old creating a magical landscape in which waterfalls flow over metres of intrepid landscapes which include glimmering lakes and peaks that have been totally untouched — they look exactly as they did when they were first formed thousands of years ago.

The grandeur of the rugged South, a certain breed of impressive yet some degree intimidating, is highlighted as one of the best spots Kiwis have visited during their recent domestic travels.

Why not plan a hike on one of New Zealand’s most infamous walks, the Milford, Route burn or Kepler tracks, all located within the national park?

Or, if you prefer a more relaxed way to see the national park, booking in on the iconic lake cruise could be the way to go, or even viewing the sights from up top, on a chartered helicopter of fixed wing plane-how spectacular!

Now onto Stewart Island, its raw mystery apart If you’re a keen hiker, tramper, explorer or of its wild appeal, its powerful ecosystem and simply have an appreciation for spectacular untouched wilderness making it simply unlike scenery and nature Fiordland National Park is an any other part of New Zealand. > absolute must see destination.

Aden Motel, Te Anau; Your Fiordland Gateway to both Milford and Doubtful Sounds.

Your hosts, Irene Benfell & David Herron, welcome you to Aden Motel, situated in the beautiful Te Anau township.

Aden Motel is a 12-unit, ground-floor complex consisting of 7 studio units, 3 x 1-bedroom units and 2 x 2-bedroom units.

All units are spacious, smokefree and offer cooking facilities. Plus we now offer a 3 Bedroom Cottage (sleeps up to 8 People) next to the Motel called Heron’s Cottage.

Our rooms have a Kiwiana theme.

Most units have full cooking facilities.

Ample parking, guest laundry, playground, car and luggage storage and a BBQ for

those lovely summer nights is available.

Free wireless internet in rooms. Pets by arrangement, please ask.

Experience Te Anau With

Aden Motel FREE WIFI FREE BBQ

Let us help you to organise day trips to Milford/Doubtful Sounds, glowworm caves, horse trekking, jet-boating and many more activities Te Anau offers.

Nestled beside one of New Zealand’s largest lakes and surrounded by magnificent scenery, Te Anau is the one true gateway to the Fiordland National Park. Whether you have come to enjoy the spectacular Milford or Doubtful Sounds or to hike the Milford, Kepler, Routeburn or Hollyford tracks, we know you will leave with fond memories. Aden Motel is the ideal place to stay while you’re experiencing this magical part of New Zealand.

PETS BY ARRANGEMENT BREAKFAST AVAILABLE LAUNDRY FACILITIES PLAYGROUND COOKING FACILITIES TV IN UNITS STUDIO, 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS OFF STREET BOAT PARKING Come and experience our RealNZ special package $279.00 per Adult: Doubtful Sound day trip, Milford Sound Nature Cruise, Glow Worm Caves tour.

Book 3 nights with us to take advantage of this special offer.

Phone 0800 11 66 44 www.adenmotel.co.nz TE ANAU NZ

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 39

Destinations | Fiordland, Stewart Island and The Catlins Located just 30 kilometres south of the South Island, across the Foveaux Strait, lays a true Kiwi oasis supplying everything and anything a Kiwi adventurer’s heart desires. Bird watching, amazing hikes and walks, arguably the best fishing in New Zealand and picturesque scenery, especially when you look up deep into the special sky.

Known in Maori as Rakiura, ‘the land of the glowing skies’, if you’re lucky you’ll catch a glimpse of the Aurora Australis which frequents the southern skies.

eastern corner of the South Island — better known as the Catlins. This hidden gem encompasses all the very best elements of a New Zealand holiday.

Rich in history, plentiful in activities and walks, a strip of the most stunning coastline in New Zealand, a wonderful climate and increasing numbers of accommodation options, means the Catlins is not to be missed.

The Catlins area covers around 1,900 sq km and forms a rough triangular shape, extending up to 40 km inland and along a stretch of Since the islands human population is so scarce coast 100 km. (around 400 people) this gives room for the Nugget point is a renowned spot located by life of so many wonderful species that simply cannot survive in more densely populated areas. Kaka Point. Once you park in the carpark it is approximately a twenty-minute walk up to Approximately 85 percent of the island is the lighthouse. protected by national park, meaning these Once up top you get sensational 360-degree species are continuously monitored and views of the coast and cliffs all around you. If protected for optimum survival rates, such you head there in the right season (Decemberspecies include, Stewart Island brown kiwi/ February) you may be able to spot elephant tokoeka, Stewart Island weka, mohua, seals which make Nugget Point they’re home. yellow-eyed penguin/hoiho, Southern New Zealand dotterel, short- and long-tailed bats, Snuggly Airbnb’s are popping up all down the South Island saddleback/tieke and giant coast so it’s easier than ever to situate yourself kokopu/taiwharu. in the perfect area for you and make the most of If you’re pondering how you get over to the island, it’s just a short one-hour ferry ride from the southern town of Bluff, home of oysters, or an even shorter flight (15-20) minutes from Invercargill airport.

what the coast has to offer.

A much-recommended way to do the journey is making a trip out of it, starting further up the South Island, stopping in Queenstown, have a look at the stunning crystal-clear lakes in Te Anau, or Dunedin, wherever you fancy until you make your way down into Bluff.

Before the borders open up early next year, and even once they do, lets collectively remember that although global destinations are beautiful and exotic, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Southland is one of greatest destinations period, so if you and your family need a much-needed refresh, take a look a little closer to home, you just can’t beat it. CT

Last but not least, it’s a must to explore the gorgeous and rugged coast in the south

From the yummy restaurants and eateries to the cycle trips, galleries, Curio Bay or the breathtaking Purakaunui Falls you absolutely must check it all out.

Tower Lodge Motel Book direct with us and quote this advert to get a

Invercargill accommodation for the discerning business or holiday traveller.

10% DISCOUNT

Available

Four star accommodation Tower Lodge is opposite Invercargill’s famous landmark, the Water Tower, from which we get our name.

Invercargill is a city which is situated on level terrain, this makes walking about the town very easy. As we are centrally located, we are within walking distance of the: • • • • • • •

Invercargill City Centre Southern Cross Hospital Queens Park Gardens & Golf Course Splash Palace Swimming Complex Southland Rugby Invercargill Working Mens Club Stadium Southland and Velodrome

• Transport World • Motorcycle Mecca • E Hayes & Sons, the home of The World’s Fastest Indian motorcycle and memorabilia

P 0800 802 180 or 03 217 6729 | 119 Queens Drive, Invercargill E stay@towerlodgemotel.co.nz | www.towerlodgemotel.co.nz

40 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Anchorstone accommodation borders Rakiura National Park and provides the perfect place to recharge your batteries.

We are surrounded by natural woodland including giant miro and rimu trees and have wonderful views across Horseshoe Bay. The native birdlife of Stewart Island is abundant.

You may even be lucky enough to encounter the small wild deer and kiwi which visit the grounds.

E. stay@anchorstone.co.nz A. Stewart Island, New Zealand www.anchorstone.co.nz

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 | 41

Destinations | Chatham Island Tours

Escape to paradise The Chatham Islands is home to New Zealand’s most remote communities as it’s known for its history, nature, and the county’s classic Kiwi culture.

be given the opportunity to fossick for some fossilised shark teeth, some 30 million years old, and Nikau Bush, which is a 19-hectare forest reserve.

Another day is all about fishing as you visit the settlement of Owenga, home to a working fish factory.

Another highlight is Kopinga Marae, the only Moriori marae in New Zealand.

Recently more mainlanders have been taking the opportunity to visit the Pacific archipelago.

During your stay, we will visit the four corners of the Island and the special places in between.

Located about 840 kilometres (520 mi) east of Christchurch, an ATR flight to the Chatham Islands takes less than two hours, but where are you going exactly?

One of the many tours at Chatham Island with 42 people on board.

This is a unique chance to be able to visit the Chatham Islands relatively easily with a flight time of under three hours.

The Chathams form an archipelago consisting of 10 islands — the largest of which are Chatham and Pitt.

As the tours are so popular and in conjunction with Air Chathams and Hotel Chathams, the tours allow a 50 passenger ATR aircraft for another special direct flight from Invercargill Airport direct to the Chatham Islands for January 2022.

This is just small a taste of all that is offered on Merv’s Chatham Islands Tours.

Are you hungry yet?

In terms of temperature, Chatham Islands has an oceanic climate due to a narrow temperature range and relatively frequent rainfall.

The climate is cool, wet, and windy with average high temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius in summer, and between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius in July, the Southern Hemisphere winter.

The tour operator of Chatham Island Tours is Merv Halliday.

Merv’s Chatham Islands Tours have already announced their tour schedule for early 2022, with trips planned to depart from Invercargill, Wellington, and Christchurch in January, March, and April respectively, and Whanganui during October.

Join a day trip to Pitt Island and squeeze in some more fishing, or just put your feet up!

Its isolated position, a long way from any substantial mainland, gives the record temperature for main settlement Waitangi to be just 23.8 degrees Celsius.

While the islands have officially been part of New Zealand since 1842, research suggests Indigenous people of the islands; the Moriori migrated there from mainland New Zealand as early as 1500.

Tours are scattered around the South and North Island, which lasts for seven nights and eight fully guided days when exploring Chatham’s most eastern island before returning home direct.

Another day you’ll travel to Waitangi West and see a historic cottage built by Moravian Missionaries, and finally, you’ll stop by Splatter Rock and Hapupu Historic Reserve before enjoying relaxing free time for your final few days.

Snow is extremely rare, being recorded near sea level in July 2015 after several decades.

Hotel and tour operator Toni Croon led a tour to Splatter Rock with the Nature Photographic Society of NZ.

Chatham Islands Tours has also been invited to Whanganui where there’s a 50 passenger ATR aircraft for another special direct flight from Wanganui Airport to the Chatham Islands.

Jump aboard to enjoy eight days of adventure, education, relaxation, and wonderment.

The tours are all-inclusive, so from the moment you board the flight to your return, Merv’s got your airfares, airport transfers, accommodation, meals, and bus tours, concessions, and levy’s covered.

You’ll explore the wonderful Chatham Islands by spending your evenings in the beautiful Hotel Chatham or Travellers Rest, while activities like deep-sea fishing keep you entertained during the day.

Your local tour guide will greet you at the terminal to officially kick off your Chatham Islands voyage.

During the next few days, you’ll explore the shores of Te Whanga Lagoon, where you will

Check out the website: [https://www. chathamislandtours.nz/] to find more information regarding packages, the schedule, all about the Chatham’s, galleries for inspiration, and on booking a trip.

Packages include things like a return airfare, seven nights’ accommodation, airport transfers, meals covered, a full-time tour leader, private property entry granted, visitor’s map, and so much more.

A run-down of how the trip will look like each day is also outlined on the website under ‘packages.’ CT

Book now – either via online booking enquiry, email chathamislandtours@ gmail.com, or call Merv on (03) 249 8294 before the next departure!

Waitangi is the main port and settlement on the Chatham Islands.

42 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

A Subantarctic fur seal (Arctocephalus tropicalis) spotted at Point Munning.

Escape to Paradise The Chatham Islands leave a lasting impression on all who visit them.

With their remote ocean surrounds, calm lagoons, plentiful marine life, and fascinating Indigenous history, a quick flight to the Chathams feels like an escape to paradise. Merv’s Chatham Islands Tours make it easier than ever to reach the islands and make the most of your time there.

WELLINGTON OR WHANGANUI OR CHRISTCHURCH OR INVERCARGILL TO THE CHATHAM ISLANDS The Chatham Islands are the closest most New Zealanders can get to travelling overseas without packing their passport.

Tour # 37 is for 8 days with 7 nights on Chatham X Invercargill

Sunday 2nd Jan 2022, Depart Invercargill 2:00pm, Sunday 8th Jan 2022, Arrive Invercargill 11.00am All Inclusive from $4,725 per person.

Tour # 41 is for 8 days with 7 nights on Chatham X Wellington Wednesday 30th March 2022, Depart Wellington 2:30pm, Wednesday 6th April 2022, Arrive Wellington 11.15am All Inclusive from $4,373 per person.

Tour # 42 is for 8 days with 7 nights on Chatham X Christchurch

Tuesday 12th April 2022, Depart Christchurch 2:00pm, Tuesday 19th April 2022, Arrive Christchurch 11.15am All Inclusive from $4,373 per person.

Tour # 43 is for 8 days with 7 nights on Chatham X Christchurch

Tuesday 16th August 2022, Depart Christchurch 2:00pm, Tuesday 23th August 2022, Arrive Christchurch 11.15am All Inclusive from $4,373 per person.

Tour # 44 is for 8 days with 7 nights on Chatham X Whanganui

Sunday 2nd October 2022, Depart Whanganui 7.00am Sunday 9th October 2022, Arrive Whanganui 6.30pm All Inclusive from $4,725 per person.

Make up your party now and take advantage of your preferred accommodation while availability lasts.

MERV’S CHATHAM ISLAND TOURS

Phone 03 249 8294 chathamislandtours@gmail.com www.chathamislandtours.nz

www.chathamislandtours.nz/contact/ booking_enquiry www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 43

Manufacturing | Timber Industry

From cradle to gate With MBIE’s carbon regulations on the horizon, here’s what professionals in the engineered timber industry need to keep on their radar.

New Zealand is on the path to a low emission, climate resilient future – this means targeting sectors with a larger carbon footprint to try and reduce emissions.

The New Zealand Government has committed to being carbon zero by 2050, and that means all government departments are looking at how their sector can contribute.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has already started consultation on how to ensure new buildings are energy efficient and low carbon.

Our built environment is responsible for 20 percent of the country’s carbon footprint, according to the New Zealand Green Building Council, with emissions from the industry at large increasing by 66 percent in the decade from 2007 to 2017.

MBIE is proposing the building industry initially counts the carbon in new buildings.

From there, companies will move to stay under a cap – a maximum amount of carbon – which will be set in the Building Act. Feedback from the first round of consultation endorsed this approach.

As residential buildings use predominantly timber frames, the industry expects to see steel frame, steel beams and masonry phased out at a steady pace in favour of timber.

The big shift builders and contractors will see more and more timber specified in medium to large buildings – that means engineered wood.

You will see a mix of NZ grown and manufactured LVL, Glulam and CLT, plus familiar timber sheet materials, displacing the high carbon materials specified in the past.

Many WPMA members have produced EPDs – environmental product declarations – for designers to use when working out the carbon footprint of individual materials and building as a whole.

The EPD data includes forestry operations, harvesting, sawing, drying and the further processing operations for each product type as required, such as drying, surfacing, fingerjointing and face gluing.

44 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

WPMA’s next step is to get its Timber Design Centre, a timber advisory service in partnership with the New Zealand government, up and running to accelerate design innovation and provide a solid resource for builders and contractors’ pricing and building for large scale engineered wood products.

As residential buildings use predominantly timber frames, the industry expects to see steel frame, steel beams and masonry phased out at a steady pace in favour Timber’s strength also lies in its sustainability

of timber.

Beyond its carbon credentials, timber is a gorgeous material that lends itself to captivating, large-scale buildings.

From the local pine showcased in the Nelson Airport Terminal to the award-winning Te Pa Tauira | Otago Polytechnic Student Village, timber structures create warm, inviting spaces that aren’t easy to forget.

There are some big shifts ahead of us as we rise to the challenge of achieving carbon zero by 2050.

Fortunately, we have plenty of homegrown timber, as well as NZ wood processors and manufacturers producing the products we need to meet the challenge.

The industry can make a huge impact just by doing our bit to rein in climate change and creating beautiful buildings at the same time. CT WPMA PO Box 3551 Wellington (04) 473 9220 www.wpma.org.nz

— Advertising Feature

Engineered timber’s load bearing abilities and structural strength make it an ideal building material.

It is not only highly competitive with steel, but it is also a renewable, sustainable product, which places few demands on the environment during the construction process.

To be considered sustainable a product must not be harmful to the environment or deplete natural resources, and must be able to be maintained for a long time.

Being timber, engineered timber products meet these requirements because of photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis is how trees combine carbon dioxide and water to form glucose and the structure of trees. Glucose is converted into cellulose which makes up the fibres or cells of the tree.

From a sustainability point of view, the important thing here is that the formation of timber actually removes CO2 from the air. This helps to reduce the amount of CO2 in the air which many scientists believe is contributing to climate change.

One kg of wood contains just under half a kg of carbon. A house which contains 20 m3 (9 tonnes) of wood would therefore have removed 4.5 tonnes of carbon, or around 16.5 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere.

Given that a litre of petroleum when burned in a car engine produces around 2.5 kg of CO2, and an average car burns about one litre per 10 km, a little bit of arithmetic shows that your average house will store in its framing the CO2 generated by driving over 70,000 km.

So timber is sustainable because the carbon stored in timber is actually lessening the probability of drastic climate change.

TS S E R O F UR O E V O L DO S R E B M THE NU

Trees lock up carbon and stop erosion. Forestry is also a highly productive land-use.

The forestry value chain generates significantly more value-add on a per hectare basis than the sheep and beef farming industry.

PwC, May 2020

No primary sector is expected to contribute more to the post-covid export recovery than forestry.

The potential export revenue from the forestry sector could reach $10.1 billion by 2030.

NZ Govt Fit for a Better World Roadmap – July 2020

LOVEOURFORESTS.NZ www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 45

Property | Property Management

Landlord and Confusion part of tenant privacy cooling property guidance welcomed market equation A survey of chartered accountants and tax agents has revealed that incoming legislation intended to help cool New Zealand’s over-heated housing market is already having a major effect on investors – but largely because of confusion and lack of detail rather than clear policy.

The annual survey, jointly run by Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) and Tax Management New Zealand (TMNZ), sought the views of 361 accountants in public practice, on recent tax policy developments.

The Auckland Property Investors’ Association Incorporated (APIA) has welcomed last November’s release by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) of its Privacy Act guidance for landlords and tenants.

The guidance sets out the information landlords can and can’t ask tenants in most cases while leaving ample scope for further inquiries to be made in appropriate circumstances.

“Housing is an emotional issue for many Kiwis,” says APIA president Kristin Sutherland.

“This guidance offers the sector some muchneeded certainty and goes a long way to help build trust between landlords and tenants.”

The Association is particularly encouraged by its flexible and principle-based approach.

“This is a far cry from the usual heavyhandedness landlords have come to expect from government agencies,” Kristin says.

“To me, this is an acknowledgement that renting is not a cookie-cutter process. As long as landlords operate within the 13 principles under the Privacy Act, they should be able to dialup and dial-down their inquiries in a way that supports the objectives of their rental business.”

The association intends to make inquiries into the mechanisms of the anonymous tip line for tenants. “We want to make sure that this is a system of integrity with appropriate controls in place so that it is only dealing with genuine privacy complaints rather than adding superfluous compliance burden on landlords.

Like many tenants, our members are frustrated by those landlords who do not treat their rentals as businesses and tenants as customers.

She considers the monitoring framework released alongside the guidance as the commissioner putting the sector on notice.

“Compliance is not the most thrilling aspect of landlording. But oversight is necessary if we want people to have confidence in the system.

“I don’t expect it to be a witch-hunt against landlords, but I want to be able to tell our members that honestly.

“We cannot pretend that there are no problematic behaviours that subject tenants to the indignity of information overshare.

“Throughout the entire review process, OPC staff members engaged us with a great deal of openness and curiosity.

“While I don’t believe those practices to be common, they certainly cast the entire sector in a bad light.

“Like many tenants, our members are frustrated by those landlords who do not treat their rentals as businesses and tenants as customers.

“We understand that theirs is an unenviable task of balancing the competing interests between landlords and tenants. Despite that, they had always responded to our feedback with thoughtful deliberation and made us feel heard.

“At the very least, this framework clearly sets out what we can expect from the OPC in terms of how it will exercise its powers.”

“Our goal is to build on that relationship so that we can be part of the positive movement to make renting fairer for everyone.” CT

46 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Among the findings, the survey revealed that 70 percent of respondents have already seen clients change or voice their intention to change their residential property investment behaviour due to ongoing changes to the extended bright-line test, and proposed changes to deny interest deductions.

CA ANZ New Zealand tax leader, John Cuthbertson, says further results from the survey show two key factors in play; the complexity of the proposed rules, and uncertainty as the details could change before the legislation is enacted in March 2022, despite the bright-line and denial of interest deductions coming into play from earlier last year.

“The survey suggests that the housing market has been given a policy placebo, in the form of legislation that is influencing behaviour before it is fully developed and enacted.

“Residential property purchasers and investors typically react to the specific detail of legislation.

“However, in this case the market appears to be reacting to the complexity of the proposed legislations carveouts and inconsistencies, and the fact that it won’t know exactly what is in place until March 2022, despite it being backdated to capture activity in 2021.

“To be fair, the Government’s aim was to cool down the overheated housing market, which is causing a range of economic and social issues, but we’re not sure this is the best way to do it.”

The survey shows that over 21 percent of the respondents, or one in five, feel ‘not at

all confident’ about advising clients on the proposed new build interest limitation rules, and over 65 percent of participants felt the phase out and denial of interest deductions would be somewhat or extremely difficult to comply with.

Similarly, almost 50 percent of respondents said they were either somewhat confident, or not at all confident on advising on the new build bright-line test.

“Because this policy hasn’t been developed in line with the generic tax policy process (GTPP), there’s a much higher chance of unintended consequences and collateral damage.

“The survey shows a considerable lack of confidence in how the legislation will work, and that will likely result in non-compliance and issues around who is captured and who isn’t.

“It’s important to note that the level of complexity encountered will depend on the number of properties owned, banking arrangements in place and the mix of interest limitation rules and concessions in play,” he added.

TMNZ chief executive, Chris Cunniffe, says the survey provides a good indication of how the proposed rules would be rolled out.

“In their current complex form, there’s likely to be a lot of variability in compliance with these laws. Especially as not everyone has a tax agent or accountant helping them.

“While the extension of the bright line test to 10 years might land well for most mum and dad property owners, the denial of interest deductions and how that relates to new builds is likely to be misunderstood.

“There’s opportunity for government to provide greater clarity on the law changes and simplify certain aspects to help owners and accountants alike.” CT

Property | Property Management

Kiwis are keen to get back to business after embracing the summer break, but is our enthusiasm enough to keep the market busy amid rising inflation and affordability constraints?

After bracing for impact following the onset of the global pandemic, New Zealand’s housing market has been set alight, but with historically low interest rates on their way back up – is 2022 the year the fire gets put out?

Encouraged by the effects of a comprehensive fiscal programme tasked with protecting the economy during a global health crisis, Kiwi homeowners are an estimated $600 million better off thanks to ultra-low interest rates, quantitative easing and a sustained effort to keep our economy afloat.

Despite these moves, and housing value growth of circa 30 percent in the year to December, Kiwi sellers sat on the sidelines for the better part of 2021, scared to list their properties for sale and risk not finding their next dream home.

Constrained by a shortage of listings and a national lack of supply, Bayleys salespeople are pleased to report a shift in sentiment as we closed out last year with national auction bookings up 64 percent - signalling the return of the confident seller.

Emboldened by recent survey results that suggest 71 percent of Kiwi homeowners expect property values to continue achieving sustainable upward growth, we’re seeing sellers return to the market, keen to utilise the seasonal advantage of summer to make their long-awaited move.

Across the country, new council valuations are expected to keep the residential property market at the forefront of the conversation.

A fresh round of new listings is nothing but good news for everyone across the marketplace, with more choice offering options Regional markets are poised for a spike in for buyers previously holding out against a demand as our borders reopen to vaccinated backdrop of tightening credit conditions. travellers – some, enticed by Lonely Planet’s recent naming of Auckland as the ‘best city It’s true, interest rates are rising, and the cost to travel to in 2022’. We expect this buoyancy of goods and services have moved upward too. will be further aided by returning Kiwis keen to However, the very nature of inflation encourages once again call Aotearoa their home. tangible investment into bricks and mortar assets.

While current market conditions support a Across the country, new council valuations continuation of the good times ahead, rain are expected to keep the residential property clouds do loom on the horizon. We’re seeing market at the forefront of the conversation. tougher bank testing, policy intervention and the implementation of debt-to-income More Kiwis will take stock of recent value measures (DTIs) as having the most gains to reassess lifestyles knowing agile potential to influence residential activity workplaces and a renewed focus on health, beyond quarter one. happiness and the home is here to stay.

BAYLEYS PAIRING TOGETHER FOR A BETTER TOMORROW We’re on a mission for the Christchurch City Mission Celebrated Chef Richard Hingston has crafted a sensational Pear and Brown Sugar Tart recipe as the centrepiece of our fundraising campaign. While your tart is baking in the oven, try your hand at the 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle inspired by Richard’s recipe. You might even like a pear tea towel – a great gift for the foodie in your life and the perfect addition to any kitchen.

When you purchase from our Bayleys on a Mission range you’ll help the City Mission deliver programmes and services to those in need. We simply can’t do it without you, and we hope Richard’s signature recipe helps sweeten the deal.

Gifts and recipe available at all Bayleys Canterbury offices and at bayleysonamission.co.nz

WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 47

Property | Real Estate

Possible “turning point” for housing market as new listings and housing stock rise The latest data from realestate.co.nz suggests that November marked a turning point for what many have called New Zealand’s “runaway” housing market.

The property site’s CEO, Sarah Wood, says that the November dataset is an early indicator of more housing availability to come.

“The New Zealand property market is taking an encouraging turn. The last time we saw our new listings this high was seven years ago in October 2014,” Sarah says.

“And total housing stock (all the homes available on realestate.co.nz), has also gone up by 5.1 percent year on year. It looks like buyers will have more homes to choose from this spring and summer.”

But new listings and total stock figures aren’t the only numbers perking up ears at realestate.co.nz.

“Housing consents are at record numbers.

Data from Stats NZ shows that the country has consents to build homes faster than we were in the 1970s, which indicates an increase in supply for property seekers in the future.”

Wellington joined the million dollar club in November - its average asking price hit $1,002,190, up 27.3 percent when compared to the same time last year, and a 14-year record high. The region has been a compelling story for several months, setting trends that seem to be filtering into nearby regions.

“Wellington’s market looks piping hot—new listings were up 21.8 percent and total stock

was up a whopping 58.3 percent on November 2020,” Sarah says.

“When we see higher numbers of total stock and new listings, it tells us that buyers are being more considered, and homes are being listed at a faster rate than they are sold.

“In Wellington, this looks to be the case—and this is the third month in a row that the region is leading the charge. The capital continues to keep us on our toes.”

The national average asking price is now $969,604 - also a 14-year record. The Coromandel (up 32.5 percent to $1,203,073), Gisborne (up 30.3 percent to $703,806), Auckland (up 23.3 percent to $1,264,601), Manawatu / Wanganui (up 26.0 percent to $671,919), Canterbury (up 24.4 percent to $672,248), Taranaki (up 22.3 percent to $615,774) and Otago (up 21.1 percent to $645,663), all broke average asking price records year-on-year.

Although its average asking price cooled slightly in November month-on-month, Central Otago / Lakes District is still the most expensive region to purchase a property. A home in the region is now priced, on average, at $1,314,884—up 21.9 percent year-on-year.

“It’ll be interesting to see if we see more stock coming to the market, and how that might affect the asking prices this summer,” Sarah says. CT

For the first time in years, total housing stock is heading in the right direction Only five regions saw their total stock go backward in November year-on-year: Central Otago/Lakes District (down -27.0 percent), the Coromandel (down -35.1 percent), Canterbury (down -18.7 percent), Northland (down -18.9 percent) and the West Coast (down -26.2 percent).

But other regions, like Manawatu / Wanganui (up 70.4 percent) Wairarapa (up 63.5 percent), Wellington (up 58.3 percent), Hawke’s Bay (up 48.1 percent), Marlborough (up 32.3 percent) and Otago (up 29.2 percent) all saw notable increases in stock. This is a positive sign, suggests Sarah.

“It’s been a few years since we’ve seen total stock increases like this. These numbers are heartening, and another early indicator that the winds of change are coming to the market.

“Amongst other things, New Zealand needs to build more homes if we want to get on top of challenges like housing affordability.

“The government has recently released their housing bill, which estimates that between 48,000 and 105,000 dwellings could be built in the next five to eight years. If this concept comes to life, we’re on the right track.”

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Wellington’s market looks piping hot—new listings were up 21.8 percent and total stock was up a whopping 58.3 percent on November 2020,

Property | Real Estate

Falling property prices across the Tasman have left many in our housing market asking if the impact will soon be felt in New Zealand Australian prices have already fallen 6.7 percent since their peak and Fitch said this was mostly due to lower investor demand thanks to tougher restrictions on lending.

These falls have given rise to the inevitable question on this side of the Tasman: will the downturn spread to the New Zealand market?

Kelvin Davidson, senior property economist at CoreLogic, is not convinced that it will. His analysis is based on three major factors.

“First, New Zealand does not generally have an oversupply of property of any type, or in any region. Indeed, our largest city of Auckland has the opposite problem: a large shortfall of housing, which is propping up values even though property is relatively unaffordable in our biggest city.”

In Australia, on the other hand, it is widely accepted that there are too many apartments available in both the Sydney and Melbourne markets, which is having the effect of dragging down prices.

So-called settlement risk, where a buyer who earlier bought an apartment off the plans suddenly ends up walking away from the transaction, is a growing problem for some of these large-scale developments, says Davidson.

The second key difference he sees is that borrowers in this country have yet to experience the kind of increases in home loan interest rates that home buyers are seeing in other countries, including Australia.

“In fact, although there are now signs that it might be ending, the banks here have recently engaged in a ‘rate war’, with borrowers enjoying some pretty sharp fixed-rate deals in recent weeks.”

At the same time, in the New Zealand market about 80 percent of mortgage debt is on fixed interest rates. This means Kiwi borrowers will have some time to adjust their finances in advance of any interest rate increase being pushed through to their home loan.

BAYLEYS ALL OVER

RENTAL PROPERTIES

In the New Zealand market about 80 percent of mortgage debt is on fixed interest rates.

Completing the trifecta of Kiwi advantages highlighted by Davidson is the fact that New Zealand’s regulators have arguably been much more proactive than Australia’s in curbing the riskiest lending practices.

“Interest-only lending is more controlled in New Zealand, and it’s also easy to forget that we’ve actually had the LVR (loan to value ratio) restrictions – in one form or another – here for five years now. This has put our mortgage market on a surer footing than Australia’s.

“To be fair, none of this precludes a housing market downturn here in New Zealand at some stage in the future. But for now, and with the labour market a huge support for property, we’re confident that Australia’s problems won’t be replicated in New Zealand for the foreseeable future.”

Need your rental property managed or your farm houses inspected?

We are committed to you every step of the way when it comes to managing your investments. Our property management takes the day-to-day out of being a property owner, while helping you achieve your financial goals.

Bayleys Property Management is more than just coordinating tenancies and rental payments.

It’s about helping you achieve your financial goals. In property numbers count for everything.

Bayleys Property Management Mid Canterbury Jacqueline Gilbert 027 886 0179 midcanterburyrentals@bayleys.co.nz Bayleys Methven 03 303 3093 Suite 2, The Mall Bayleys Ashburton 03 307 7377 Westburn Courts, 201 West Street

Re sid e n tial / Co mme r ci al / Rur al / P ro perty Services WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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Property & Construction| Passive House Institute New Zealand

Building our future

The Pitkin-Douglas House.

A high-performance home is an investment in the future – for you, your family, and the local and global community.

When thinking about building a home, people often focus on what it looks like, but what about what it feels like to live in?

Imagine your sanctuary, a place to breathe easy and feel comfortable all year, without worries about drafts, overheating, mould, condensation, or energy bills.

People are demanding more than ever from the buildings they occupy. We have a rising awareness of how we as consumers have an impact on climate change.

What can we do to use resources smartly and more efficiently without compromising on quality?

Covid has shone the spotlight on the indoor spaces that we spend our time in – are they comfortable, fit for purpose, and with appropriate ventilation?

We are lucky in New Zealand that we don’t face the extreme temperatures that other parts of the world do. But then even more so we should question why traditionally our buildings are so cold in the winter, and more and more, overheating in the summer.

The name Passive House comes from the German Passivhaus, with haus meaning building, and passive referring to the majority of heating and cooling demand being met through “passive” sources such as the sun, orientation and shading, or the heat emitted by occupants and household appliances.

With any build or house purchase, we need to consider our priorities.

Often people talk about applying “Passive House principles”. But this is a bit like assembling the ingredients of a cake and then ignoring the recipe.

Sometimes we need to reconsider what is essential. Planning a simpler shape or a slightly smaller house in order to prioritise overall how the building will perform is just smart and forward-thinking.

You may end up with something edible, but it probably won’t be entirely what you expected, and it’s possible that the ingredients won’t interact in the way that was intended at all.

Passive House is a proven and effective method of creating high-performance buildings that are both energy-efficient and healthy.

Passive House done right means that the different components of the building and how they interact with each other and the local climate can be modelled, predicted and measured.

A Passive House building is designed and built to the climate, and will have excellent air quality, minimal use of energy required for heating and cooling, and a comfortable temperature maintained year-round.

50 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Building a Passive House is a collaborative process – every step is considered, evaluated, and checked.

Aiming for Passive House standard means that all the way through the design, build and completion, a skilled professional certifier will be independently checking progress.

This makes it much more likely that any errors in design or construction will be noticed and can be resolved much earlier.

And a Passive House designer or builder knows how thoroughly their work will be checked and that they will be held accountable for the performance of the building.

And all this of course means that the homeowner can be confident that they get what they paid for – a durable asset with lasting performance, which will continue to perform as highly as expected for lifetimes.

While Passive House has a specific focus on building performance, it is also complementary with other considerations and schemes.

For example, achieving Passive House standard automatically means a number of credits towards Homestar.

Homebuilders may also consider things such as locally sourced / low carbon / recycled materials. Other considerations might be minimising construction waste, or making buildings more accessible for old age.

Passive House Institute New Zealand, Te Toputanga o te Whare Korou ki Aotearoa (PHINZ), is the hub of the Passive House community in New Zealand.

Our Te Reo name means the grouping of the houses of vitality, a name which captures the purpose of Passive House beautifully.

Projects such as Ethos Homes’ Bushland Park subdivision demonstrate that we can and should build attractive, healty, comfortable and sustainable living communities.

Passive House – Homes Where People Thrive, is a free brochure published by PHINZ which can be downloaded here: https://passivehouse. nz/ PH-Homes-Thrive.

A list of Passive House professionals including designers, builders and component suppliers can be found here: https://passivehouse.nz/directory/. CT

Construction | Ethos Homes

The right builder is a crucial choice Building a new home means many, many decisions.

Beyond the obvious choices of where and what are questions about what materials and what construction process. How will different options impact on the budget, on the timeline, building durability, the health of its occupants, on the planet? It can be dizzying.

Arguably the most crucial choice is finding the right builder to partner with. It’s even more important now given the supply and labour shortages gripping the industry. The right choice can make for a lot less stress and much better outcomes.

Nadia and Gavin Sole live with their three sons in a delightful certified Passive House in Richmond, Christchurch, that is beautifully fashioned to suit their needs and values.

They chose local, independent builders Ethos Homes before they had even purchased a section. It turned out to be a great decision because Ethos director Pete Bielski’s advice and introductions were valuable from day one.

The Soles were already sold on the benefits of a Passive House build. Pete introduced them to Karen Manson at Meta Architects who provided Passive House design services. This ensured the Sole’s new home could meet the objective Passive House criteria for energy efficiency and health and comfort.

Long-term relationships

The Ethos team have been building homes for Christchurch families for years—ever since Pete returned from a trip to Germany, wanting to use what he’d learned building alongside fastidious German craftsmen builders.

They take a whole-system approach to what they do, partnering with experts to ensure the entire design and construction process is credible, well-managed and efficient. Great processes lead to great outcomes.

The firm attracts, and keeps, skilled builders who want to create better buildings than those that only just meet the NZ Building Code minimum. Clients also benefit from the company’s long-standing relationships with suppliers and consultants, such as local manufacturer Weathershield Windows and Doors and engineers and designers.

There are other advantages from Pete’s point of view. “With an Ethos panel, my team is in control of the whole process, rather than having another supply chain to manage and contractor to rely on.

generations by using its timber in high-quality homes that are built to last.”

All these factors: an experienced team, a whole-system approach and panelisation—are helping Ethos Homes build Bushland Park, New “With the current shortage of building materials Zealand’s first neighbourhood to target certified Passive House performance. (In fact, the homes and shipping delays, I don’t need extra stress. are expected to qualify as Passive House Plus, I also like being in charge of quality control. each generating as much energy via rooftop PV Building our way, I am absolutely confident about the thermal performance. And if a client panels as the occupants will use each year.) CT wants a last minute variation, we can do that on the spot. Try adding an extra window into a Ethos Homes SIP wall: not going to happen,” says Pete.

021 444 717 “And we’re using timber from trees grown here amanda@ethoshomes.co.nz in New Zealand. That tree stored carbon while www.ethoshomes.co.nz it grew—now we’re locking up that carbon for — Advertising Feature

“Some people call this ‘early contractor engagement’, says Pete. “We just call it how we Ethos Panels: faster and better do business.”

At the materials level, Ethos Homes is set apart by its use of timber panels they make off-site.

Those panels can form walls, but also floors and roofs. Ethos are currently building a house for architectural graduate Mark Brokenshire, his second that uses panels made off-site.

There are so many benefits to this approach, says Mark. Properly scheduled, it reduces build time because the panels can be made while the site works are carried out. Working indoors in a well-set out environment lends itself to better quality control. There are no rain delays or soaked timbers either.

The Ethos panels are impressively quick to stand up on site. The panels for Mark’s new home are plywood clad with a weatherproof layer. They’ll arrive on site, be craned into position and quickly aligned and fixed. Windows and doors will be fitted on-site. The house will go from a slab to a weathertight building in a matter of days: exciting.

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Property & Construction | Universal Concrete

The gold standard of concrete To stand the test of time, a successful business requires the most robust and reliable of foundations.

Practically fool proof by design, Universal Concrete not only specifies in foundations of such strength; it is also built on them. That is, metaphorically speaking of course.

The team at Universal Concrete is constantly developing new innovative systems such as their vertical overlay and microtopping systems.

Established in 2019, the strength of this small, but successful Christchurch company owes to the skills and dedication of its director, Oscar Dando.

Using the latest techniques and technologies, they can provide clients with one-of-a-kind finishes and products completely unique to their home or commercial setting.

Using techniques and resources from around the globe, Oscar built his business around the goal to exemplify the endless possibilities when using concrete.

Their hard-wearing systems can be used on just about any existing substrate and can mimic the look of rock, stone, timber, rusted metal, or pre-cast concrete.

Indeed, from the legs of household furniture to liquid spills – it’s no secret that concrete is one of the most enduring and reliable of materials.

Working with materials that set quickly and permanently doesn’t come without its challenges. One example is the potential for concrete to crack as it dries.

This, combined with its’ low maintenance and eco-friendly benefits make it the perfect choice for individuals looking at flooring options for their homes and has largely contributed to its rise in popularity for domestic and commercial designs.

To simplify the decision-making process, Oscar and his team have put together an assortment of decorative finishes for customers to choose between, such as exposed aggregate, stamped concrete, plain or even coloured.

A range of aesthetic solutions is also on offer at Universal Concrete, such as their decorative concrete overlay system that comes in various colour waves and patterns. Though it doesn’t stop there.

Better yet, they also provide interior concrete finishes which include microtopping, concrete benchtops, acid stained, metallic epoxies or grind and sealed floors.

A snapshot of Universal Concrete’s services Decorative overlay $60M²*

Microtopping

Fortunately, because the business is not only based on rock-solid expertise, but also a strong professional ethic of accountability, they already have several procedures in place to minimise such risks.

Universal Concrete’s decorative overlay system is an affordable alternative to other decorative concrete finishes. Their decorative overlay system is the ideal product for resurfacing concrete surfaces no matter how old and dirty your drive, path, patio, or floor is they can transform or rejuvenate your stained, dirty, and dreary concrete. In addition to this, their decorative overlay system is highly resistant to salt, chemicals, UV, freeze delamination, hydrostatic pressure, stains, and mildew. Decorative overlay has endless possibilities as we offer a wide range of patterns, finishes and nearly 30 colours. It’s extremely durable and flexible with a high tensile strength of 45,000 PSI/ 32MPA. Microtopping $90M²*

Universal Concrete take pride in providing their clients with concrete that is truly special and distinctive to each project.

Indeed, their commitment to their customers time and time again, by keeping open, honest communication and displaying acute attention to detail throughout is what sets them apart. CT Universal Concrete Ltd 0508 683 7529 sales@universalconcrete www.universalconcrete.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Decorative overlay

Universal Concrete’s microtopping is currently very popular with architects due to its’ seamless aesthetic and incredible versatility. With just three millimetres of thickness, Universal Concrete’s microtopping allows you to renew existing surfaces on different bases such as concrete, ceramic, and self-levelling compound without having to remove them.

Microtopping is extremely resistant to changes in climate, easy to clean and fast to install. Microtopping is ideal for both horizontal and vertical surfaces, such as plasterboard or masonry walls, stairs, bathrooms, and garage floors.

Grind & seal floors $60M²* A grind AND sealed floor is incredibly similar to polished concrete, but far less expensive.

The floor is ground to the depth desired, salt and pepper or a full grind followed by a polyurethane coating or acrylic sealer which gives it the high gloss look as a full polish.

This service is becoming far more popular than polished due TO the affordability and how efficiently it can be applied. * Prices listed are provided as a guideline.

Pricing may vary. Definitive pricing will be provided during our quoting process.

Decorative overlay

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Property & Construction | Gen-Y Homes

Making any project smooth sailing Gen-Y Homes Ltd were contracted to build and project manage a new development of nine units on a large section running between Otley Street and Bealey Avenue, Christchurch.

The original site had five flats that had to be demolished and the site needed to be prepared so the nine units could be built.

City Salvage Contractors were engaged to do the demolition and site preparation, and Paddy and his team of professionals got to work.

The demolition wasn’t straight forward because the building had asbestos and City Salvage Contractors fully adhered to every health and safety compliance requirement and removed all the rubble and made ready for the site preparation.

The site was then duly cleaned, leveled by City Salvage Contractors, and a spring was capped and the site handed over to the builders.

Gen-Y Homes project managed the whole building process, from the site preparation to the driving of multiple piles and the completion of the extensive foundations to full and final CCC compliance, inspection and sign-off.

The building of the nine units was an extensive process with Gen-Y Homes as the principal contractor and the whole relatively complicated process was discharged in a ‘best practice’ manner at all levels.

The project manager ran the building site in a completely efficient and totally professional manner, and made sure that all the subcontractors completed their specific tasks on time and to the high standard required.

At all stages the development went smoothly and met all building inspections, standards and codes, and there were no significant hold ups.

DEMOLITION & ASBESTOS REMOVAL

In a difficult environment caused by Covid lockdowns, the project proceeded without undue disruption, despite the impact of Covidinduced building supplies chain issues.

The project management proceeded without a hiccup and the sub-contractors were onsite when required and the finished build passed every test with flying colours.

Gen-Y Homes work in Rangiora, North Canterbury and Christchurch and they are experts in residential and light commercial new

builds, design and builds, and renovations from concept to completion.

Gen-Y Homes has extensive building experience and a track record to envy with a long list of satisfied clients.

Take the worry out of your building needs and engage the professionals at Gen-Y Homes.

Call Jamie on 0274 325 409 or Alana on 027 479 9123 to talk about your next building needs and requirements. CT

“Put our experience to work on your project” Commercial & Residential Demolition Asbestos removal - classes A & B Site clearances Large or small projects Contact us for a no obligation quote

CITY SALVAGE CONTRACTORS VERY PLEASED TO BE A SUBCONTRACTOR TO JL HIGGINS LTD W: www.citysalvage.co.nz E: contracts@citysalvage.co.nz 544 Tuam Street, Christchurch, PO Box 32139 Christchurch

CONTACT: 0274 324 878 OFFICE PHONE: 03 389 9650 www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 53

Focus On | Nelson

Nelson’s spot under the sun Sitting at the top north-west corner of the South Island, Nelson is consistently rated the sunniest region in the country, with a geography which boasts everything from long golden beaches to untouched forests and rugged mountains.

Nelson city serves as a gateway to the three national parks on its doorstep and has firmly established itself as a popular ecotourism and adventure tourism town.

Many areas within the greater Nelson Tasman region boast beaches, forests, pristine bodies of water and magnificent cave systems.

Nelson truly is the best of both worlds. It’s large enough to offer all the services and amenities of a large city, but at the same time it is small enough to be welcoming and friendly.

Nelson is New Zealand’s largest fishing port and the gateway to a major forestry and horticulture industry.

There is the attraction of fine foods, great wines, an innovative craft industry, spectacular scenery and traditional Kiwi hospitality and the combination makes Nelson Tasman a place holiday-makers flock to all year round.

The beautiful coastline from Nelson to Golden Bay and the Abel Tasman National Park is famous for its clear blue waters and pristine golden sand beaches.

The park itself can be explored by guided walks, sea kayak, cruise boat, water taxi or freedom walking, allowing you to see penguins, seals, dolphins and native birds, all set in lush native forest and beautiful beaches.

Inland Nelson Tasman is equally as exciting, in a wonderland of water adventure, including kayaking, rafting and boating.

If frozen water is a preference, skiing and even ice skating make the Nelson Lakes National Park a popular winter destination, well served by some exquisite luxury lodges hidden away among mountains, lakes and exotic native bush settings.

Nelson Tasman is very family friendly. There are three national parks and the Abel Tasman should be a number one must do on everyone’s list. It is one of the country’s sunshine capitals and is also earning a title as the creative arts capital with more than 250 local artists, including traditional, contemporary and Maori.

Along with a plethora of wineries, Nelson is also emerging as a culinary destination with an abundance of local flavours. Local restaurants can tempt the most discerning palate with their superb seafood including mussels, scallops, oysters, seasonal whitebait, and many fish varieties. The Taste Nelson festival is held each year to celebrate these culinary delights.

Wakefield Homestead is owned and operated by Hilary Bird and Margaret Helleur who are sisters that grew up in the Wakefield area. We are committed to the further development of the Wakefield Homestead to make it a home away from home. Our mission statement is “Family working with families to make a positive difference in people’s lives”.

Hilary has a team of caring, dedicated staff who support our residents.

All have a wide range of health and well-being experience and enjoy sharing their knowledge with other staff to continually increase their knowledge and understanding of supporting people to give them the best day possible. Community is family and Wakefield Homestead is committed to being a central part of the wider Wakefield community by being involved at all levels of village life.

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Nelson, blessed by nature as a destination which offers almost everything, is not to be missed in any tour of New Zealand.

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Focus On | Waimakariri & Hurunui

North Canterbury farming keep an eye on the dry The Hurunui Adverse Events Committee has been monitoring how farmers are going in the current dry weather, and would like to remind their communities of the wealth of experience and information available.

Farmers in North Canterbury have plenty of drought experience and can take credit for being in reasonable shape as February brings weeks of hot, dry weather and high evapotranspiration.

“If we learned one thing in the 2014-2017 droughts, it was that you need to make decisions early on what you can control,” says Winton Dalley, Chair of the Hurunui Adverse Events Committee.

“Its good practice to have plans and deadlines in place to destock, send stock out to graze, and buy in supplements while they are available at an affordable price.

“Seeking advice and support from your rural professionals is a wise move, whether it is financial, stock health, stock disposal or advising on supplementary feed and green feed crops.

“They have a wealth of knowledge to assist your decision making. Remember too, looking out for your neighbour is of paramount importance.

“On top of normal demand for works space, in other parts of the country there are reports of longer delays due to the Coronavirus slowing expert demand. So booking in early is a must.

“We had good spring growth and generally a good production season, then it came dry as normal December onward. While we usually expect the autumn rains to kick in from next month and set us up for winter, we will be in an uncomfortable position if the rains don’t come this year, and farmers need to prepare for that eventuality.”

Rural Support Trust Chai, Andy Munro, says “The Rural Support Trust has as yet not received any requests for help, but we have been made aware that morale was slipping in certain areas and are monitoring the situation regularly.

“We would encourage farmers to contact us if they want a free and confidential chat to one of our team.”

Anyone concerned about how farmers or their families are coping are urged to call the North Canterbury Rural Support Trust on: 0800 787 254. CT

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By covering structural, civil and geotechnical engineering, land surveying, resource management and environmental science Davis Ogilvie are able to simplify construction, design and development using collaborative processes to create better solutions.

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Davis Ogilvie is proud to provide multidisciplinary services for a range of developments which support family and lifestyle, and promote regional growth in North Canterbury. These developments have included the Ravenswood, Silverstream, Sovereign Palms and Oxford Park subdivisions and the Northern Arterial Road.

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Focus On | Selwyn

Green initiative

Lincoln University scientists develop game changing greenhouse gas emission reduction technology Renowned Lincoln University scientists, Emeritus Professor Keith Cameron and Professor Hong Di, have delivered a breakthrough technology with an immediate benefit for the dairy farming sector to combat global climate change.

Developed in partnership with Ravensdown, the new technology is an effluent treatment system that reduces the methane emissions from farm dairy effluent ponds by up to 99 percent.

Launched to market by Ravensdown and Lincoln University in early November 2021, under the brand name EcoPond, the new treatment system also slashes the amount of E.coli in the treated effluent, reduces ammonia emissions, mitigates odour and cuts phosphate leaching losses from effluent areas into waterways by up to 90 percent.

Cutting greenhouse gas methane emissions has been a focal point of the recent COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, with New Zealand joining more than 100 countries pledging to reduce methane emissions by 30 percent during the next decade.

The EcoPond system achieves its highly significant reductions in methane emissions by adding a treatment agent iron sulphate, a safe

additive used in the treatment of drinking water, to effluent ponds.

Both Professors Keith Cameron and Hong Di hope that the greenhouse gas mitigation delivered by EcoPond will be a gamechanger for dairy farmers.

“Nearly all dairy farms use effluent ponds, which are the second-largest source of onfarm methane emissions, after cow belching,” professor Cameron says.

“Our development and demonstration of the new system, undertaken at the Lincoln University Research Dairy Farm, has proven that the new system is enormously effective at neutralising the methane-producing process, resulting in a four to five percent reduction in an average dairy farm’s overall methane emissions.

“This is hugely significant for the industry, as it provides farmers with a new tool in their toolbox to help reduce methane emissions on farm.”

EcoPond can be easily retrofitted into a farmer’s existing effluent system.

“As far as the farmer is concerned, it’s ‘plug and play’. EcoPond is doing the business while the farmer is busy milking the cows,” Professor Cameron explains.

Professor Hong Di says they discovered EcoPond’s efficacy in reducing greenhouse gas

emissions during the development phase of their earlier award-winning ClearTech system.

“In testing the ClearTech system for unintended consequences we found that the gases we collected off the effluent in experimental set-ups indicated a reduction in methane emissions of greater than 90 percent.

“This was a stunning result. In science, it’s rare to achieve such a large influence on an experiment.

“So, encouraged by this finding, we tested the system using farm-sized effluent storage tanks and nervously waited to see what would happen.

“The result exceeded our wildest hopes, achieving a methane emission reduction of 99.9 percent. We’re still working on that last 0.1 percent. We’ll get there!”

Lincoln University Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bruce McKenzie, says the development of two such significant and innovative agritech solutions that can be quickly and easily applied on-farm demonstrated the value of collaborative partnerships as a means to addressing some of the world’s most pressing landbased challenges.

“Lincoln University has a long history of driving innovation in the land-based sector and has a distinctive research profile.

“Our reason for being is to discover answers to the most pressing land-based challenges, and we do this by collaborating with industry partners, universities, research centres and iwi to help shape a better, more sustainable world.” CT

Lincoln’s local real estate experts Mike Pero Real Estate franchise owners Eddie and Jolene Eagar have proudly called the west side of Christchurch home for almost 15 years and are passionate about helping others do the same.

The Eagars say Lincoln offers the best of both sleeves and getting stuck in with them to get worlds – it sits close enough to the city to a house ready for market.” benefit from all it has to offer yet far enough Many a times you’ll find the Eagars helping to enjoy a sense of community. their clients mow lawns, weed gardens, “Living in Lincoln makes you feel a certain clean bathrooms, or move furniture. If there’s sense of joy and freedom, because life is a anything they can do to help, they’ll be there little bit slower, quieter, and more peaceful,” to give an extra hand. says Jolene.

“We’re in the business of building An experienced husband-and-wife team, the relationships. While we create wealth for Eagars work hard to bring their complementary our clients, our focus always remains on maintaining these relationships. This keeps skills and deep understanding of the local us honest.” market to provide a high-quality service.

“We understand the real estate market, we enjoy sharing our local knowledge and we’re committed to working hard to generate value for our clients.”

From first-time sellers needing extra guidance to those looking to downsize their long-term family home – the Eagars are dedicated to supporting locals to reach their property goals.

With unwavering support for their clients, the Eagars not only seek to achieve the best possible price, but also provide a stress-free and enjoyable selling experience.

“We really care about people. We don’t just sell houses, we sell homes – for us it’s personal.”

“We genuinely care about our clients and work with them to achieve the best possible outcome. Sometimes it means rolling up our 56 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Through honest service and one-on-one real estate advice, Eddie and Jolene Eagar have become integral to the close-knit Lincoln community.

Testimonial “Eddie and Jolene are a compassionate team. Enthusiastic and friendly to deal with.

Professional always. We sat with them to tailor a marketing plan; they presented all information ensuring we understood every detail. Dedicated to achieving the best results, they held numerous open homes and private viewings. Clear communication throughout the campaign. Emails, phone calls, WhatsApp group chat, zoom meeting together with the auctioneer to explain the full process and what to expect when selling at auction. They were also sympathetic to our sentimental attachment and emotions with selling our family home!

We sincerely recommend them to anyone thinking of selling.”

To explore how Eddie and Jolene can help you on your real estate journey, speak with them today by calling 0800 EAGARS (324 277).

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Focus On | Selwyn

Take a road trip through Selwyn District and take in the sights along the way For those who want to step away from the hustle and bustle of the cities, cruising through Selwyn is a recipe for success.

It’s the perfect time for a road trip as summer is in full swing without the usual thrum of international tourists buzzing about.

The Inland Scenic Route, also known as SH72, travels both ways – South to North or vice versa.

This drive through New Zealand’s heartland will give you views in four distinct districts that include Selwyn. The farmlands of Hororata transform into the Southern Alps.

The Rakaia Gorge, with its wide shingle beds that resemble the Waimakariri River until it squeezes through a narrow cavern in the Canterbury Plains, is one of the best places to camp in the South Island.

From the Rakaia River to the Waimakariri River, the family-owned farms and small towns dot the region in a way that enhances the landscape.

The Rakaia Gorge, with its wide shingle beds that resemble the Waimakariri River until it squeezes through a narrow cavern in the Canterbury Plains, is one of the best places to camp in the South Island.

The Rakaia Gorge camp ground sits on a plateau directly above the Rakaia River at the Gorge bridges – the campground is run by the Rakaia Gorge Society as a non-profit with 58 permanent sites for casual stayers and tourists alike.

Within the Selwyn District, there’s so much to see and do – historic buildings and unique landscapes, such as the Homer Simpson donut in the town of Springfield, short walks and long hikes, and similar activities for the ultimate outdoorsperson.

Boutique cafes and eateries, like the famous Sheffield Pies along the Great Alpine Highway, bring people far and wide for a taste.

Grab your keys and hop on the road for the full swing of summer in Selwyn.

Visit www.selwyn.nz for tips on what to do, where to stay, and what’s on during your trip to the Selwyn District. CT

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Focus On | Timaru

Hayden Paddon helps promote safer driver choices at bends Who would be better to ask for advice on driving than a world champion rally driver? It is not such a great idea, you think, and you would be right. We do not need a racing mentality on public roads.

Hayden is a local here in South Canterbury, although our community share him with the rest of the world. He got stuck in New Zealand due to the Covid-19 lockdown restrictions on international travel.

So, he thought this would be a perfect opportunity to give something back to the community for all their support.

Even though he has many world-class achievements, he is still humble, making it great to work on a road safety campaign. He is mentally and physically on top of his game, but he is also a regular guy, a road user like the rest of us.

As a driver on public roads, he is as calm as you can get, because he can distinguish between Hayden in a race and Hayden on the road.

Haydon’s standards are high. He would not put himself in a predicament because he knows better. And that is the message he helps to promote.

When on the road, you are not in a race. In a race, they control the environment. The public has no vehicle access to the route, every driver heads in the same direction, the cars and drivers are top specs, and the drivers all have navigators telling them every moment what to expect.

On public roads, it is different. There are none of these helps a rally driver has available except their sound decision-making skills.

People can learn that too., but in the end, it is still a conscious decision the driver makes.

We aim to make drivers aware of the risks involved when entering bends too fast. You may be travelling within the speed limit but approaching most curves at that speed is extremely risky.

The crash data shows that losing control at bends is one of the three most dangerous crash types. Head-on crashes and loss of control on straight roads are the other two.

The safest choice is to slow down enough before entering the bend so that you do not have to brake hard when you’re in the curve.

Most crashes happen because drivers go in too fast and hit the brakes hard, causing the vehicle to become unstable and go out of control.

You can also help us by sharing this message with your family and friends – Slow down before entering bends. CT

Hayden Paddon getting ready to race.

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“Slow down BEFORE entering bends”

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visit scrs.org.nz for more information www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 59

Focus On | Timaru

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The the jewel in South Canterbury’s crown is Timaru, nestled comfortably in the mainland about halfway between Christchurch and Dunedin.

With a booming economy, excellent medical and educational facilities, a vibrant and

enterprising business sector, an abundance of sporting and recreational facilities and a friendly community, this coastal haven offers so much more than a central stopover.

The region offers a fantastic place to invest, build a business, visit and enjoy family life - a place where strangers are still greeted with a smile, and a great base for doing business, studyi ng and visiting.

People in South Canterbury enjoy a lifestyle most can only dream of and the city and offers one of the most welcoming and attractive lifestyle choices in New Zealand.

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Your home away from home Mark, the owner and Laney and Bruce the managers look forward to welcoming corporates, couples, families, and groups to our centrally located, 4 Star (newly joined) ASURE Avenue Motor Lodge.

We will be offering a guest loyalty card system which will give our customers a discount of $100 after every 10 stays at an ASURE motel of their choice.

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• Free parking • Guest laundry facilities • Coffee machine at reception and available during office hours for room service delivery

We are now also offering restaurant quality meals as a room service option to our guests Monday – Friday nights.

With Bruce and Laney both being qualified chefs with 30 plus years’ experience in the hospitality industry, we are thrilled to offer this service to our guests. It also stops the need for our guests having to leave the comfort of their apartments after a long day’s work and to not have to sit in a restaurant on their own.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 61

Focus On | Timaru

Timaru’s on-demand public transport hits 200,000 ride milestone Innovation has paid off in Timaru as the city’s new on-demand public transport service goes from strength to strength.

“Hawke’s Bay Regional Councillors and staff have recently spent time with our team in advance of their own on-demand public transport launch, and around the country, we’re actively supporting several other councils as they look to introduce variations of Environment Canterbury Councillor, Peter Scott, this service,” he says. says MyWay by Metro was developed as a test Katrina Brunton, GM Policy & Regulation case for similar services around the country. at Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, says her council has been inspired by the MyWay team “We developed this model to understand and their success in Timaru. whether an entirely different public transport model could succeed in New Zealand’s smaller towns and cities. It has surpassed all expectations.”

Late last year the service celebrated its 200,000th ride with passenger numbers continuing to climb.

“Patronage has increased more than 30 percent compared with the previous fixed route service, with a marked increase in accessibility for people throughout the community, and significant environmental benefits through reduced greenhouse gas emissions and multipassenger trips,” Peter says.

Environment Canterbury has produced a comprehensive report of its findings from the service trial, which is proving invaluable to councils around the country.

“The team has given us valuable learnings and advice as we prepare to launch our own ondemand service in 2022. A huge thank you to the Environment Canterbury team for sharing their wisdom and time to support us on our journey.”

Pioneering innovation Councillor Scott says one of the keys to a successful on-demand service is the technology behind it.

“This project places transport at the forefront of innovation. MyWay is powered by global transit-tech leader Via. “Their intelligent algorithms allow riders to book an on-demand ride, directing them to a nearby ‘virtual bus stop’ within a short walking

distance. This allows for quick, efficient shared better connect residents with both essential trips that provide more flexibility than traditional and leisure opportunities. transport options.

"Timaru is truly leading the charge for Via’s APAC regional manager, Ben Hague, innovative, tech-enabled public transit in New says MyWay represents how on-demand Zealand, and we look forward to seeing how transport can create positive impact for other communities will follow Environment communities everywhere.

Canterbury’s lead.”

“We are proud to continue our partnership with Environment Canterbury.

“Since the launch of MyWay, the service has achieved its goal to expand access to efficient, flexible, and sustainable public transportation in the community, and in turn,

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Environment Canterbury’s 49 percent funding of the service has been confirmed in its Long-Term Plan, while Waka Kotahi approved the extension of the trial while it works closely with Environment Canterbury on longer term funding and procurement options. CT

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Focus On | Oamaru

Jobs on the way for the youth Young people in Oamaru receive career opportunities from Waitaki District Council’s Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs.

a bit reluctant to engage with Youth Launch (Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs) as there have been a lot of initiatives over the years that had the greatest intentions at heart, but the execution wasn’t there.

From July 1 this year, the government allocated $500,000 worth of funding towards 25 young people aged between 16-24 to help them get jobs before December.

After a wee bit of research, it didn’t take much convincing and we took a young man that finished at St Kevin’s and offered him an apprenticeship.”

Fortunately for Waitaki, 30 young people ended up getting jobs or apprenticeships by October where 19 people were employed full-time, seven in an apprenticeship, and four in parttime employment.

Eugen and the team were supportive and the programme was efficient. Hopefully, the programme continues as there’s a shortage of people in the building and construction industry, says Jason.

Eleven different industries from the region contributed.

“Due to the success of the programme, we have just taken on another young man that finished at Waitaki Boys High School and offered him an apprenticeship.”

Industries such as food production, mechanical, engineering, social work, farming, supermarket, horse racing, retail, building, manufacturing, automotive, which totalled to 25 employers.

Oamaru Riteway Paint & Panel owner Warren Smith agrees that having the youth launch is a great way to employ young people, especially Youth Launch’s Taskforce member Eugen Dupu as there is a shortage in the trades industry. says, “the success of the programme speaks Warren felt Eugen was doing good for not for itself. only the youth, but also the employers, and We hit our target in half the allocated time and within budget.”

recommends Youth Launch to anyone who’s looking for staff.

Youth Launch gives young people the opportunity and support to start their careers and is one of the most successful community programmes he’s ever worked with, he says.

“Young people have little to no income to get started and coming prepared with their own tools and equipment helps them and the employer.

Breen Construction Oamaru manager, Jason Mavor says, “initially we have been

It is a two-way road: employer doing their bit to risk taking unexperienced youth and youth

Waitaki Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs Youth Launch Team (from left) Eugen Dupu, Susie Sinclair, Helen Algar, Dawn Ewing, Yvonne Avis, Sandra Familton and Mayor for Waitaki Gary Kircher.

coming as prepared as possible and willing to work and learn.”

Rainbow Confectionary NZ general manager Brent Baillie says the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs Programme has supported Rainbow Confectionary NZ, which helped place five young people into new full-time positions.

The programme gave new entrants a lot of support as well as a platform and facility for them and their employers.

Brent hopes there are more opportunities like this in the future for younger people.

“This programme will only make this happen.”

The community development manager Helen Algar says the community has worked hard to make this happen and they’re grateful to be working with the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs team, young people, and various employers.

Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher says the initiative is going well in Waitaki and in the other councils where this initiative has also taken place.

It’s a sign local government and its communities can influence and improve the well-being of people more directly and effectively than central government can, says Gary.

“As for the future, we remain hopeful the Ministry of Social Development and the government see the successes to date as a great opportunity to deal with intergenerational unemployment and labour shortages.”

The programme will also help conquer the struggles at-risk young people go through with hindered employability, he says. “This is a real win-win!” CT

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Guthrie Bowron Oamaru Guthrie Bowron Oamaru is your locally owned ‘One Stop Shop’ for all your decorating requirements.

We supply Dulux and Cabots paint, selected wallpaper brands, tiles, flooring, curtains, blinds, awnings, shutters and a wide variety of cushions, homeware and furniture.

We originally were branded as a Colourplus store and in December 2016, we purchased the Guthrie Bowron store from the North End of Oamaru and amalgamated the two stores into one at the Colourplus site being on the corner of Reed and Eden Streets by the roundabout. We are centrally located and we take pride in offering top service and a wide variety of products.

We offer a free in-home measure and quote for curtains, blinds and flooring. The team is made up of two interior design consultants who have a wealth of experience in curtains blinds, shutters and awnings.

We also have a flooring specialist whose passion is customer service, hard flooring and tiles. She is the first friendly face you will see when you come into the store. We look forward to providing you with top service and advice on all your home decorating needs.

As we move to more sustainable practices, we here at Guthrie Bowron Oamaru have a new range of 100% wool carpets and a paint range called Ultra Air. Both of these new product ranges work towards a more emission free and environmental friendly decorating experience. Come in store to discuss your needs.

Guthrie Bowron are New Zealand’s home decorating specialists. We offer Kiwis everything they need to refresh their homes, as well as advice from experts in every store. Our vision is to be New Zealand’s most inspiring home decorating destination, helping Kiwis turn their houses into homes.

New Zealand’s trusted decorating specialists CURTAINS & BLINDS

PAINT

WALLPAPER

FLOORING

One stop One shop Interior design - Drapes, blinds, paint, car paint, stains, wallpaper, wool carpet, nylon carpet, tiles, vinyl, luxury vinyl planks, commercial flooring, homewares and much more. Pop in store and check out what we have to offer...

03 434 8654 | shop@gboamaru.co.nz | www.guthriebowron.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 67

Focus on | Dunedin

Room for improvement Touted as New Zealand’s most beautiful city in 2018, Dunedin remains the gatekeeper of some of the country’s most remarkable architecture and history.

All things considered; you’d presume it’s an ideal place to live.

However, the satisfaction levels of citizens living in any given city is largely dependent on the decisions made by local governing forces.

And based on the results from the Dunedin City Council’s Residents’ Opinion Survey, the DCC has some work to do.

The survey outcomes, published in December of last year, reveal a sharp drop in the level of satisfaction with the mayor and councillors – down 14 percent from the year prior.

More than 1,200 people responded to the survey, which ran from July 2020 to June 2021. Ratings were highest for ease of pedestrian movement, followed by street lighting and the flow of off-peak traffic.

Respondents were least satisfied with the availability of parking in the central city, availability of on-street metered parking in the central city and traffic flow during peak times. Infrastructure maintenance was also identified as key issues that resident’s felt required attention.

DCC chief executive, Sandy Graham, commented that while the findings are

reminiscent of recent years, the DCC has indeed been working to improve its’ performance and change public perceptions.

“We know this has been a tough year for everyone, and to some extent that frustration is borne out in these results, but our focus is on improvement.

“We can’t change past performance or tackle all of these challenges overnight, but we know we need to deliver for our communities.

“The survey clearly identifies the public’s priorities, many of which are not a surprise, and we are already working hard to address these,” Sandy says.

Well on track for a record year of investment in capital and renewals in 2021-22, the DCC is actively increasing the amount it spends on core infrastructure to deliver on the public’s concerns.

For example, over the next ten years, transport renewals expenditure is projected to increase from $161 million dollars to more than $245 million dollars and spending on Three Waters infrastructure will also leap from $305 million dollars to $437 million over the same period.

“

We can’t change past performance or tackle all of these challenges overnight, but we know we need to deliver for our communities.

”

Additional transport projects will also help, including the upgraded harbour arterial route and plans to improve parking management in the central city. The DCC is also currently looking at increasing parking options.

Enabling work is reportedly already underway and the upgrade is due to be finished by the beginning of 2024.

While many of the projects are long-term investments which will take some time to complete, Ms Graham said she is confident they will deliver for the city and its residents.

The DCC will also be implementing other measures, such as more regular reporting of key performance indicators, to promote earlyidentification of areas for improvement, Ms Graham said.

The Dunedin Mayor Aaron Hawkins commented that contention on significant issues can skew public perceptions of elected members even when much of their work is carried out diligently and in a collegial fashion.

“I’m confident this Council has the best Not to mention a new kerbside collection interests of its residents at heart, and we are system – including extra bins for rubbish, food lucky to have staff working hard on projects to waste and an optional extra bin for green waste make the city a better place.

– which is due to be rolled out in mid-2023.

“Just like our residents have different views Dunedin’s $28 million dollar retail quarter about how to achieve that so do elected will also deliver significant improvements to members. That is exactly what we would the overall look and feel of the urban centre. expect in a healthy local democracy.” CT 68 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

SMARTEN UP YOUR HOME WIFI At Unifone, we are best known for providing high quality, fast, reliable broadband to rural areas, where other companies have struggled in the past. What most people don’t know, is we are Otago’s largest privately owned internet service provider and have many other services we can provide.

Unifone can also connect town customers to the Ultra-Fast Broadband (Fibre) UFB network or the traditional copper broadband system. Internet speeds are faster than ever, no matter how you connect and what is installed to distribute the signal in your house matters more than ever. This is something Unifone takes seriously. As a relatively small and local Internet Service Provider, they want their customers to have the best possible online experience.

We proactively work with each customer to arrive at the best solution to suit each customer’s unique situation.

Every home is different, and every customer has individual needs. Unifone offer a wide range

of solutions from standalone WiFi routers to systems integrated into the home’s infrastructure.

While standalone routers are a perfect option for many situations, a high-speed internet connection needs to be matched to something that can distribute it quickly and reliably.

That is why, we have designed Unifone’s Premium Solution and the one we recommend for new homes builds or homes being renovated.

The process begins with an obligation free consultation with one of Unifone’s networking specialists, who will come to a client’s property and make recommendations on the best network coverage. We then design quotes to match individual customer needs.

The goal of a UniFi system is to achieve as close to 100% coverage of the home as possible.

The service is provided with discrete wall or ceiling mounted radio access devices and can be controlled from a smart phone or through Unifone’s cloud UniFi management system.

Give Unifone a call on 0800 894 114 or reach out online on www.unifone.net.nz and get your home broadband into the 21st century.

The best time to get the Unifone team onboard for this service, is at the electrical design stage.

They will work in with your project team to get cabling installed in the right places at the right time. WiFi network design and installation is a highly specialised field and Unifone are the local experts.

We believe the high-speed internet connection arriving at your boundary needs to be matched to a high-speed connection within your home.

Everything that goes online works better with a high performance in-home WiFi service. Games consoles, Smart TVs, and even good old web browsing are a pleasure when the connection doesn’t lag, buffer, or disconnect in the middle of something important.

Unifone pride themselves on providing all our customer’s big and small with the highest quality service we can.

Services | Funeral Directors

A meaningful farewell is your gift to them Covid has taught us many things as it has impacted upon so many areas of our lives however, not all the lessons have been new ones. The classic one is also the line in Jodi Mitchell’s song Big Yellow Taxi, “You don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone”.

Covid reminded us of this very starkly when at Level 4 Lockdown, funerals were not allowed. To make matters worse, neither were viewings. In fact, the reality for over 4,000 families was that they were unable to say goodbye to their loved ones in the way they wanted to.

They were denied the basic human right of grieving with the deceased, of seeing a loved one laid to rest, of placing a flower on a coffin surrounded by family and friends.

From research, we know that to deny a meaningful farewell leads to a poor grieving process and subsequent issues with mental well-being. The New Zealand Influenza Pandemic Plan recognises this, stating that funerals should not be cancelled because of the medium to long-term mental health impact. Yet they were, and only time will tell if the price those families paid was worthwhile.

The line of that song rang true for them as much as it has done for other families in recent times. We have all seen the desperation of the Pike River families to be able to farewell their loved ones, something currently denied to them.

What do your loved ones need when you are gone?

A meaningful farewell is your gift to them.

A pre-arrangement allows your loved ones to gather together, support one another, remember and celebrate your life without the responsibility of making difficult choices in very emotional circumstances.

What we also need to know is that we don’t have to wait to give that gift, we can do so

David Moger CEO of the Funeral Directors Association.

now. It’s as simple as taking the time to talk to family, friends and your Funeral Directors Association funeral director.

Only they are your assurance of a meaningful farewell, and that assurance goes beyond the skills and expertise they have, the professional standards they commit to as a member and the inspection monitoring they go through.

That assurance also extents to how it can be paid for. Your Funeral Directors Association member will not only help you to work out the details of your meaningful farewell, but will also be perfectly transparent in telling you what that would cost you today.

The question then becomes what do you do about that? For some people, the cost of that meaningful farewell is manageable, usually through the estate but even if that is the case, it is worth putting that aside somewhere, so it is easily identifiable and separate.

Currently, the first $10,000 put aside into a pre-paid funeral arrangement plan is deducted from assets for Aged Care Allowance, which may be a helpful side benefit.

“

A meaningful farewell is your gift to them. A prearrangement allows your loved ones to gather together, support one another, remember and celebrate your life without the responsibility of making difficult choices in very emotional circumstances.

For others, the cost needs careful planning.

Insurance is an option as it provides an immediate death benefit if the pre-arrangement is needed early but over time insurance can be a very costly option if you live longer than the insurance actuaries calculate, and premiums exceed the sum insured.

The big issue is that if you cancel at that point, you lose the cover and are worse off than you started with no cover and all those premiums wasted. They are not wasted as far as the insurance companies are concerned though.

Remembering that insurance companies with shareholders want to make a profit to declare dividends to their shareholders, so they will offer a product that creates that profit. After all, it is why they exist.

So where does that leave someone who doesn’t have the full amount of cash sitting in a bank account and wants to provide for their meaningful farewell, but doesn’t want to get caught in the premium trap of insurance contracts? The answer lies in The Funeral Trust: www.thefuneraltrust.co.nz.

The Funeral Trust has been set up by the Funeral Directors Association to do two things: • Keep prepaid funeral contributions safe and secure • Over time to maintain the purchasing power of those funeral contributions.

70 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

”

Your contributions are kept safe by being held under a trust, separate from the funeral director, with a strong governance structure.

Over time, the purchasing power of your funeral contributions is maintained by investing all the funds across a mixture of asset classes, which enables the Trustees each year to apply a Funeral Inflation Adjustment to your contributions, designed to offset the inflation, specifically on funerals.

This is not an investment product. There is no interest. There is no tax paid to the IRD on the Funeral Inflation Adjustment and most importantly there are no fees charged to your account.

Each year, on the advice of the scheme actuary, the Trustees identify what inflation there has been and make an inflation adjustment to your contribution that over time is intended to maintain its purchasing power.

So, for those who don’t have sufficient funds to put aside available right now, The Funeral Trust is shortly going to launch a new option so you can make contributions either via your credit card or via automatic payment for whatever frequency and amounts you want.

Taking a little poetic license with the line in Jodi’s song, using The Funeral Trust to gift your meaningful farewell to them now means “you do know what you’re giving when you’re gone”! 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

•

w w w.johnr hind.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz | 71

Lifestyle Choices | Non-alcoholic Drinks

Who are we?

In 2018, the founders of Little Elephant Tonics, Grier and Courtenay, left NZ to live in Bali, Indonesia, to explore new horizons. The island has a deep history of wellness practices.

They spent time adventuring and learning about the locals’ own traditions.

One thing they learned was about Jamu, which is a turmeric tonic that islanders have been drinking for centuries. Grier says that Jamu was a game-changer for him.

“Turmeric is well known for its antiinflammatory properties. It’s the healthiesttasting beverage I’d ever tasted, and even better, it eased some lingering pain from an old motorcycle and skateboarding injuries.”

You’ve probably heard about turmeric before - it’s well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. But you’ve probably never tasted anything like the turmeric tonic we’re talking about.

At Little Elephant, we believe in combining the benefits of nature and science to help provide relief from stress and restore harmony to one’s life.

Super strong and punchy, but with the added benefits of an anti-inflammatory powerhouse spice like turmeric.

Courtenay says sometimes a moment comes when you know you can make a difference in the world.

“It became apparent that this was one of those moments for us. We knew that we could use our knowledge and expertise to create Little Elephant Tonics.”

In late 2019, they packed up their Bali house, shipped their rescue dog, Roo, home to New Zealand and began work on their new business, Little Elephant Tonics.

“At Little Elephant, we believe in combining the benefits of nature and science to help provide relief from stress and restore harmony to one’s life.

“We make our wellness tonics with natural ingredients. We strive to create products that boost your body’s natural ability to thrive by combining the best of nature’s botanicals, adaptogens, and nootropics.”

The first product they released was Recover - a tonic that was very much inspired by the original Jamu tonics they sampled in Bali.

Recover was followed by Drift, a sleep tonic, which uses sour cherry, botanical extracts such as valerian and passionflower, and magnesium for a relaxing, calming effect, and Sharpen, their newest nootropic tonic featuring pineapple, l-theanine, rhodiola, bacopa, and more for brain health and focus.

There are of course plans for the future.

“We’ll be coming out with additional health tonics, coffee, and functional mushrooms soon,” they say.

“We always ask what is good for the modern consumer and what’s the best way to approach it from our perspective?

“We choose only glass bottles for our tonics because they hold and preserve our products and ensure that the bottle is recyclable and all of our boxes are 100 percent recyclable.

“What else do we care about? We’ve decided to start supporting an animal sanctuary in Indonesia that rescues wild animals from the clutches of traffickers and the like.

“These animals have been abused in the worst ways imaginable. They deserve better than the terrible fates they might face otherwise. 5c from every bottle sold goes to the sanctuary.”

Looking for healthy alternatives?

Little Elephant’s growing range of premium wellness tonics has got you covered from stress to tiredness and general immunity.

For more information, visit: www.littleelephant.co.

72 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

choice. Around 80 percent of Kiwis say they would like to alternate more between drinking non-alcohol and alcohol-based The NZ Alcohol Beverages Council (NZABC) drinks when socialising with their friends says a turning point in Kiwi’s attitudes – so it’s important people have choices toward balance and moderation has seen whether they are out with friends in a bar or no- and low-alcohol drinks become more at a family BBQ. socially acceptable, as evidenced by the “With increasing consumer demand for recent boom in zero-alcohol beers sales. lower-alcohol drinks, we are seeing a rapid A 322 percent increase in zero-alcohol expansion of no/low category products. beer was seen in the span of a year (June “Beer and wine producers are working 2020-June 2021). Over 2.14 million litres hard to meet changing consumer needs. of zero-alcohol beer was produced in that The craftsmanship and dealcoholization period, equivalent to more than 6.5 million technology behind zero-alcohol beer 330ml bottles. brands like Speights, Asahi and Heineken NZABC executive director Bridget shows there is no compromise on quality MacDonald says “Kiwis are making better or flavour. decisions about alcohol and our behaviours are changing, particularly how we drink and “Kiwi winemakers have similarly perfected crafting zero percent and lighter wines. And, socialise and our purchasing decisions.

I have it on good authority that other big “It’s being driven by a shift in positive brands will be launching zero percent brews social attitudes toward no- and low-alcohol and wines just in time for summer. beverages, which are now seen as “Our alcohol consumption has been socially acceptable. trending downward for some time, and “Forty percent of Kiwis consumed lowglobal consumption declined six percent alcohol drinks last year. They are choosing last year. drink options that better suit their lifestyle or personal situation, as seen by the recent “We are drinking around 25 percent less boom in zero-alcohol beer sales,” she says. today than in the 70s and 80s, seeing less hazardous drinking, fewer younger people “Research last year found 91 percent of drinking, and consumption decreasing.

Kiwi males wouldn’t care if a friend chose “We consume less alcohol per capita not to drink alcohol on a night out, and 65 than the OECD average. It’s a positive percent of Kiwis say they feel comfortable shift to a more moderate and responsible not drinking alcohol on a night out. drinking culture.”

“This suggests that Kiwis’ current attitudes How New Zealanders are drinking is also and behaviours are more focused on changing more broadly with a move to moderation and being sociable, and the more premium wine, beer and spirits – so social pressures to drink are becoming less although people are drinking less, some acceptable,” Bridget says. consumers are still drinking full-strength “This is a positive story – one of beverages yet drinking them in a more moderate and mindful way. moderation, innovation and consumer

Social acceptance of non-alcoholic drinks increasing

CT

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The remarkable journey of the Chia Sisters In the sunny beachside town of Nelson, a small but ambitious team is using their business as a platform to redefine what good business means.

Showing that businesses can be both profitable and sustainable at the same time.

All while making exceptionally tasty and nutritious drinks in the process.

The beginnings The Chia Sisters story starts back in 2012. Born to a fitness-focused family, Nelson local Chloe Van Dyke was on the look-out for a nutritious endurance drink that would benefit her sister Florence and father Ben, a competitive triathlete and swimmer respectively.

When her research failed to find a product that was full of nutrition while also free from added sugar and caffeine, she decided to create her own.

Chloe had recently completed a science degree with a major and post graduate diploma in neuroscience. She had also studied herbal medicine and was introduced to the world of superfoods, conducting deep research of her own. Chloe says, “Chia stood out to me as being rich in the nutrients that most of us need more of.”

“Chia seeds are small but super potent – one of the most nutrient dense foods in the world.

Filled with omega 3, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and iron, they’re also packed full of prebiotic fibre.

“But it’s what happens when you soak them in water is where the magic lies – they develop

a gel coating which also makes them super hydrating and unlocks all the nutrient goodness for your body to absorb.”

Chloe launched the Chia drink to the market and quickly realised it wasn’t only athletes who were using Chia drinks on the regular, but also everyday consumers looking to add essential nutrients to their daily diet. Before long, sister Florence joined the fast-growing business and it was then the Chia Sisters brand was born.

Award winning range Today the Chia Sisters offer an awardwinning range of pressed juices, smoothies, sparkling, and superfood drinks providing New Zealanders with healthier, more sustainable drink options.

Their functional range includes the original Chia drinks as well as Superfood Smoothies that pack a protein punch sourced from the fibre-rich hemp seed.

Their Immunity Tonic is also one to watch.

Recently awarded the Beverage Award at the 2021 New Zealand Food Awards, it is made with Golden Bay Mānuka honey, lemons, ginger, and turmeric. It is packed full of Vitamin C and can be enjoyed hot or cold to sustain immunity all year round. One 350ml bottle makes seven glasses, reducing the use of packaging.

Staying true to their values As their business has grown, they have held firm on their values of sustainability, nutrition, and innovation.

Recently awarded the Climate Action Leader award at the Sustainable Business Network Awards in November and recognised as the top-rated certified B Corp in New Zealand, the Chia Sisters are leading the way in sustainable business.

Their juicery in Nelson is lined with solar panels, sending extra energy back to the grid for others to use. Their business is certified Climate Positive meaning their overall activity reduces carbon emissions in the atmosphere. After reducing their emissions, the remainder are offset by planting native trees in the local Rameka Forest, which is regenerating farmland.

But Chloe says they don’t want to be a leader in the ethical business space, but one of many. They acknowledge they still have a long way to go.

“We are well aware that sustainability is a journey. No business is perfect. One area that is particularly challenging for us is reducing the packaging in our products. Our goal is to have a packaging free workplace by 2030 and we have recently purchased a kegerator to serve our beverages packaging-free.”

Future growth While there have been ups and downs, particularly in the past two years with Covid-19, the Chia Sisters team are focused on growth, but not at the expense of the environment. They are determined to make nutritious and sustainable drinks more readily available and mainstream here in New Zealand and overseas.

With plans for expansion to more international markets, they are certainly one to watch.

Representing a new generation of business doing right by people and the planet, the Chia Sisters are exactly the type of business we need to be supporting right now.

Follow their journey on Instagram @chiasisters or on their website chiasisters.co.nz.

Interested in stocking Chia Sisters? Contact Abbie Tebbutt, Marketing & Relationships manager at abbie@chia.co.nz or 027 6333 544.

www.chiasisters.co.nz

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Lifestyle Choices | Non-alcoholic Drinks

Clear Head Drinks is a company like no other in New Zealand Launching at Beervana in August, the company is New Zealand's first non-alcoholic drinks online store.

Kãpiti real estate agent Ricky Bartlett and his wife Donna Weston decided they wanted to create a place where people could find great non-alcoholic options, all under the same roof.

With backgrounds in real estate, primary teaching and retail management, both Ricky and Donna have experience in sales, using that experience to get going, before working out the rest along the way.

This was after Ricky quit drinking 8 years ago and couldn’t find any appropriate alternatives for adults that wasn’t a sugary fizzy drink.

One of their first suppliers was Thomson & Scott from the UK who produce a worldwide favourite non-alcoholic bubbly.

The other problem was that the nonalcoholic drinks that were available were widely spread amongst different supermarkets, stores and online shops making accessing the drinks that you wanted a difficult task.

That's when Donna and Ricky decided to give New Zealanders more choice around what they could drink when alcohol was off the table for whatever reason that may be. So, here they are…Clear Head Drinks is now servicing New Zealanders who want to drink adult drinks with a variety of tastes and flavours from all around the world but without the alcohol.

They’ve taken careful consideration in finding products which have added health benefits, often they're low calorie, low sugar, they've got added vitamins, they're organic, vegan and gluten friendly.

Along with non-alcoholic beer, wine and spirits, they also have a range of ready to They’ve taken careful consideration in finding drink botanical beverages that have complex products which have added health benefits, adult flavour and mouthfeel yet don't replicate often they're low calorie, low sugar, they've any alcoholic drinks - for those looking for a got added vitamins, they're organic, vegan and complete alternative. gluten friendly - they just tick all the boxes.

Whilst being fully available online for They understand that people who don't want personal purchases, Clear Head Drinks is to drink alcohol still want to be involved, they also available for wholesale orders and is still want to have fun. especially interested in building relationships with corporate, businesses, events and It also means you can still have a drinking night or participate in the party or celebration wholesale clients. but be able to drive home afterwards.

Ricky and Donna recommend to have a dabble. "Don't be afraid to try something new, you'll definitely find something you love!"

Clear Head Drinks is all about being involved in the ritual and the occasion without feeling like you're being left out. "What we offer is to Clear Head Drinks products are available sit alongside alcohol - it's still beer or wine, online and are also available for wholesale. just without the alcohol content".

Enjoy your night, without ruining the next day.

NZ’S FIRST NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS ONLINE STORE With the biggest selection from around the world including low-calorie, vegan and organic options, so there’s something for everyone. Shop online today and get your drinks delivered straight to your door.

Whether it’s a party for one or a celebration for more -

No matter your reason, we’ve got you covered.

OUR DRINKS LET YOU JOIN THE PARTY

hello@clearheaddrinks.co.nz

www.clearheaddrinks.co.nz 74 | www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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