Canterbury Today Magazine Issue 170

Inside innovation

The simple brilliance behind Pepa Stationery

Keeping your head in the game

Managing stress when running a business

In Season

Five autumn fashion trends

Bugging out

Navigating the flu and cold season

How to avoid being scammed

DOUBLE THE FUN

Double Dribble's Mia Zhao and Andy Shiau

Making moves in a mixed market

Through the first quarter of 2023, the New Zealand mortgage market has seen a real mix of interest rates, even within the same bank, says Nathan Miglani from NZ Mortgages.

It’s been an eventful start, with weather events in the North Island impacting the Reserve Bank’s inflation-fighting mission, which dominated 2022. As we settle into a new financial year, the market might be starting to stabilise, but in the process of settling, we are seeing widely varying rates being offered, even within the same bank, with one rate offered to customers dealing directly with the bank and a different (lower) rate for those who are working with a mortgage adviser.

While it means that we can get some good deals for our clients, having two different rates on offer can be a little bit confusing for someone

So why is this happening?

What it means is that the banks are looking to balance their books. The banks are governed by strict rules about how much they can lend on ‘low deposit’ deals (deals in which the buyer has less than (20% deposit). If the numbers aren’t adding up, they’ll look to attract more business with customers on the other end of the equation (with at least 20% deposit) to balance things out and ensure they’re staying within the government’s guidelines.

The result is that some great deals are available for clients with a healthy deposit (provided they’re working with a mortgage adviser).

As the banks get their numbers back into line, we’ll see less of this variation of interest rates. Hopefully we’ll also see less volatility across the board now that inflation is coming under control around the world and the OCR will likely start to stabilise as a result.

In terms of interest rates, I think that we’re at the peak now. We expect that rates will stay fairly stable through most of 2023 and by the end of the year we might start to see rates easing once again. Our view is that for many borrowers, fixing for one year or 18 months will make sense.

Circumstances will be different for every client, however, so I would always recommend seeking specialist advice from a mortgage adviser.

home loans simple.

Cover Story

Publisher's note

This issue of Canterbury Today is chock full of helpful advice and some seasonal offerings.

It kicks off by stepping inside the dazzling hospitality enterprise, Double Dribble, founded by power couple Mia Zhao and Andy Shiau. We look at making tax time easier, start-up tips for small businesses, how to avoid being scammed and investing in digital NFTs.

There are pieces on autumn fashion trends, how to navigate the flu season, creating warm offices, managing stress, morning routine tips to get you into any day, good reasons to stay active during the cooler months, some great gadgets for the office and we look at the simple brilliance behind Pepa Stationary.

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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Rob Clark CEO of Learning Architects

How to quell the tyranny of urgency Let the past inform the future

Hopefully, this is more of an occasional situation rather than a continual state, and intentionally taking time to reflect on successes and challenges is a routine practice.

The past informs the future

Wherever you are on your leadership journey, spending time in regular self-reflection; thinking about your leadership style - and how you could improve - is an important factor in your effectiveness.

For many of us, self-reflection is something we often talk about doing, but all too often, neglect to actually make it happen until something forces our hand. This might be client feedback, changes in the business environment or an unexpected event.

The problem with this is that you tend to react rather than proactively respond; you are in effect being driven by the ‘tyranny of the urgent’.

Avoiding the tyranny of the urgent

Using a process that gets you (and keeps you) into the habit of self-reflection helps you avoid being driven by ‘the urgent’, by routinely prompting you to take a step back and consider the bigger picture of where you are headed and why you want to get there.

Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, believed that we must increase the amount of time we spend on activities that build our leadership capacity and relationships.

To do this, we need to find ways to minimise the time we spend on urgent tasks that demand our attention and energy, and achieve increased balance and perspective.

Ongoing reflection on our performance, goals and purpose is just that sort of activity. So how might you go about doing this?

Protect your time

Given that clients, team members and everyday business can fill up your calendar

really quickly, it’s crucial to create routine and structure for yourself.

As simple as it seems, blocking out time in your diary, and following a process can make all the difference.

Covey also believed that the most powerful way to increase personal effectiveness is to establish a ritual of weekly planning.

This gives you perspective on bigger picture goals, while providing a manageable enough time span to focus on what’s in front of you.

In essence, it provides a balance between long term perspective and short-term execution, which supports your everyday wellbeing and future goals.

Where to start

The first thing to do is to reconnect with what you want to achieve in the short or long termwhatever fits your big picture.

Then do what Covey calls ‘sharpening your saw’, and decide when in the coming week you will spend time attending to your wellbeing. This may be physical exercise, spending time with loved ones or friends, or learning something new.

Once you’ve locked these important activities into your calendar, block out times in the week for your personal reflection.

It’s important you ensure this happens by not letting distractions get in the way.

How do you avoid distractions?

Enlist the support of others by making sure they know when you are unavailable and not to be interrupted.

Obviously circumstances will be different for everyone, so if that’s not an option for you, consider going off site to a place where you can do your best thinking.

A six-step process to turn reflection into action

It’s all very well spending time reflecting on your effectiveness and performance, but it is pointless unless it results in action and improvement.

It’s best to keep it simple. These six steps will help your reflective process become a habit:

1. Identify opportunities and/or areas for improvement.

2. Link these to your wider goals.

3. Share these ideas with others, when and if applicable.

4. Identify what you can do and make plans to put this into action.

5. Stop thinking about it and get on with it!

6. Rinse and repeat.

Making habits stick

Ongoing self-reflection is a cycle of continuous improvement, and has the greatest impact when you can make it stick.

A great way to support this is to record your reflections. You might use a list or a journal, write on post-its or a whiteboard, or even use audio snippets on your phone. Whichever suits you, find a way to capture your ideas so you can revisit and implement the ones that will make the greatest difference.

Sometimes, you will need to share relevant aspects of your reflections with others to help them become a reality.

Habitually recording your reflections helps them become a reality through ongoing action by:

• Helping you clarify your ideas

• Giving you and others opportunities to identify areas for improvement and innovation

• Inviting others to support you

• Creating self-accountability for your results. This way, not only will you be more balanced, feel better about what you are achieving, and have a better perspective, you’ll be focused on what’s important.

So, if you do find yourself feeling like that hamster on a wheel, and know that you need to quell the tyranny of the urgent - whip out your diary, plan for next week and get reflecting.

Your future self will thank you for it! CT

Do you ever feel like a hamster on a wheel, frantically running, but getting nowhere; barely managing to keep up with the day to day demands and urgent business, let alone getting time to think about the bigger picture and what might be next?

Leeann Watson

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

Weathering the storm

Why do Canterbury businesses think differently during an economic downturn?

It comes down to resilient optimism. Because we’ve been through so much, we are better prepared, more resilient, agile and decisive, and better positioned to see the opportunity through the fog.

Businesses across the country are currently experiencing challenging market conditions. Rampant inflation, which is currently at a 30-year high, combined with a barrage of legislation that has added additional costs and compliance for business, continual supply chain disruptions and a labour market that is unable to supply a workforce to fulfil requirements, have all combined to create an environment that is exceedingly challenging for business.

There are also minimum wage increases (up 44 percent compared to 2017 minimum wage); increased sick leave entitlements; the addition of an extra Matariki public holiday; the increased immigration cost of bringing international skills and talent to New Zealand; rising electricity costs; increased international air and sea freight costs; commercial insurance cost increases; and the impact of carbon unit prices doubling since the end of 2020 under the Emissions Trading Scheme. So - what does this mean for Canterbury businesses?

Canterbury businesses are adept at embracing change, because that’s where opportunities lie.

They know how to capitalise on uncertainty and understand how to overcome the obstacles brought about by challenging market conditions.

We only need to look back over the last decade to see just what challenges the region has bounced back from, and the lessons learnt that enable local businesses to think differently during this economic downturn – to be uniquely positioned to weather the storm.

They know what smart cuts and wise reinvestments look like and realise there’s truth in the old adage ‘you’ve got to spend money to make money’.

We have also seen – and continue to see –symbiotic recession-proofing relationships between businesses and their customers, as well as a real focus on removing waste and inefficiencies in everyday processes.

While we share the same nationwide woes as other regions, our strong regional economic activity also tips the scales in our favour with

Canterbury expected to emerge as one of strongest performing regions in 2023.

Labour force participation is continuing to rise, with the highest ever recorded in Canterbury. We’re also seeing the return of international tourism, with visitor spending equivalent to 95 percent of pre-COVID spend. Agricultural incomes remain strong, and export values are offsetting imports inflation on our trade balance.

Events diary

Afternoon Business Networking Meeting

Monday May 22nd, 1pm

Where: Just Desserts - 33 Wordsworth Street, Christchurch

Want to join a business networking group, but don’t like morning meetings? This business networking meeting is a good opportunity for business people to meet up in a more relaxed environment by meeting over lunch. The group meets up in the afternoon to have a meeting and meet new people to create the opportunity to work together with people whose trust you have gained by regularly meeting them. The first two meetings are free and then you can decide whether this is beneficial or not for your business. If it is, feel free to register on The Networkers website.

www.eventfinda.co.nz/2023/afternoonbusiness-networking-meeting-1pmmeeting/christchurch#when

Sacha Vee Jazz Trio

Monday May 22nd

Where: Great Hall – The Arts Centre - 2 Worcester Boulevard

According to the Chamber’s latest Quarterly Business Survey, one in two local businesses expect their earnings to improve over the next year, and three out of four are intending to invest.

We’re also seeing an increasing number of businesses commit to carbon reduction. And underlying it all is what Canterbury has become known for – a strong, vibrant and diverse community with a high quality of life, affordable living, and innovative, creative people and businesses that continue to shape Canterbury as one of the best places to live. In times of uncertainty, our local businesses have the unique mindset that says ‘now is the time to step on the gas’.

After all, anyone can race well when the racetrack is dry, but it’s those with more experience who can create strategic distance and make greater gains by overtaking in the rain.

As motor racing legend Ayrton Senna once said, “You cannot overtake 15 cars in sunny weather… but you can when it’s raining”.

So, we can all play a part by approaching the year ahead with resilient optimism, to help change the perception of Christchurch as a city that is recovering from ‘a decade of disaster’, to a city that is full of new and exciting opportunities, with a quality of life second to none, that is attractive for both prospective residents and businesses. CT

Come along and see the talented trio, which consists of Sacha Vee, Michael Story and Tim Driver – who love putting a modern twist on popular classics. Listen to various genres the trio will perform with distinct jazz and flawless execution. The concert is a part of the Great Hall Lunchtime Concert Series showcasing this year, which shows an amazing line-up of well-known local, national and international performers all in a stunning heritage building. Become a member of the Concerts for Christchurch Friends or Friends of the Arts Centre to get tickets for only $15!

www.christchurchnz.com/see-do/events/ sacha-vee-jazz-trio?session=122446

Soul Skate Roller Disco: 80s Classics

Saturday May 27th

Where: 81 Bickerton Street Christchurch

This fun event brought to you by the Canterbury Skating Academy is an awesome 80s themed dress-up disco party where people can roller skate with their friends and family. Everyone can come dressed in their most 80s inspired clothes they can find in their wardrobe and dance their heart outs on the dance floor. This is

a family friendly event with a DJ performing 80s music, an MC who narrates the night, birthday shout-outs and more surprises. Come along from 5:30 – 7:30pm (family friendly hours) and 7:30 – 9:30pm (16 plus) for only $17.88.

www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/soul-skateroller-disco-80s-classics-tickets606085948387?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Strategic Selling

Tuesday May 30th

Where: University of Canterbury Business School in the Rehua Building, Christchurch

This one-day course is definitely worth purchasing for business people who want to develop an important understanding of prominent ideas for efficient strategic sales. It’s beneficial if you’re starting your strategic sales journey to bring in more customers and efficiently sell your business’s products and/or services.

People will learn about:

• The role of the sales leader

• Efficient sales procedure

• Important tools and capabilities of the sales team.

This course targets directors, senior executives, founders, and management. The course is designed for when the sales cycle is medium-long, the purchasing team is bigger, the process is complicated, or the transaction value is greater.

https://events.humanitix.com/ strategic-selling

The Midwinter Season

Thursday, July 22nd

Where: Christchurch Arena

The Midwinter Session is Otautahi's brand new winter festival by Venues Otautahi

Bring your 18 plus mates along to enjoy an awesome arrange of food, artists, bands, street artists, beers, wines and spirits. Try yummy food from some popular food trucks and have it with a cold beer, glass of wine, or quirky cocktail. These refreshing beverages will help you get through the big event! Come and support the local music and art. Performances will occur from upand-coming artists and bands, along with awesome local street artists. Taste, feel and view the ultimate experience, it’ll definitely be the highlight of your month!

www.venuesotautahi.co.nz/whats-on/themid-winter-session

According to the Chamber’s latest Quarterly Business Survey, one in two local businesses expect their earnings to improve over the next year, and three out of four are intending to invest.

Making tax time easier

Simple tax advice for any entrepreneur

Whether someone is starting out and establishing their own business or has been in the industry for a while now, it’s always a good idea to keep in the know with the latest data, information or new stories on the website.

One common challenge that almost never feels like it gets easier for many entrepreneurs is dealing with taxes.

However, taking the time to read these tips from the business.govt.nz website on ‘How to make tax time easier’ may help put anyone at ease.

1. Plan (and save ahead)

Starting or working in a business is already stressful enough and so is receiving an expensive bill, which is why it’s smart for entrepreneurs to save money for taxes and levies and do themselves a favour.

Create a separate, interest-earning account for tax and ACC payments and place a portion of each payment received into it.

Entrepreneurs should ensure they remove these investments in time to make any due payments.

The interest business owners receive can go towards their ACC levy, so they may not need to set extra money aside for that.

The business.govt.nz website also suggests it’s common for small businesses to avoid filing tax returns to Inland Revenue (IR), causing people to do this last minute.

However, it’ll be more beneficial to prevent stress by following this advice from the government on how to better prepare for taxes.

For instance, it’s a good idea to maintain good records digitally or via print, whatever works for entrepreneurs.

In the beginning:

• Go to a free Inland Revenue seminar

• Register at myIR for online services

• Understand business tax basics with Inland Revenue’s Smart Business guide (IR320).

An entrepreneur’s first year in the business world doesn’t mean it’s tax-free! They can decide to pay their tax in a lump sum after filing their first return, or they could use AIM to pay small portions throughout the year once their business forms an accounting profit.

GST

• Business people can check if they need to register

• After that, they must start charging GST

• Code receipts and invoices to show what they’re for.

Entrepreneurs shouldn’t keep the GST they charge - it’s not their money as they’re gathering it for the government.

Income tax

• Entrepreneurs can help pay for their tax bill by regularly saving for the bill – at least 20 percent of their income

• Think about hiring a tax expert to help save time and money

• Always file tax returns by the due date to avoid paying a fee.

Business owners must not forget to pay income tax. The payment date could be several months after filing a tax return.

PAYE

• Register as an employer online with IR

Two forms to file monthly:

• IR345: Employer deductions — must be filed, even if no deductions have been made

• IR348: Employer monthly schedule — only required for the months’ employees are paid.

Don’t file late as there may be a late fee that may be more than the PAYE subtractions.

Unexpected

• If a big catastrophe occurs, employers must still file returns even if they can’t pay

• If an employer’s data gets damaged, they must let IR know as soon as they can

• IR may come up with alternative payment options to help an entrepreneur’s business from declining.

If an entrepreneur closes their business down, it’s best not to forget to deregister for GST and as an employer.

2.Get support when needed

Entrepreneurs should:

• Think about what is needed. Is dealing with tax complex? Or is it easy to understand/handle?

• Get support at important times - if an entrepreneur doesn’t want long-term costs, they should decide what they need help with, who can help and/or what they can do themselves

CAN YOU SELL? DO YOU HUNT FOR PROSPECTS? IF SO WE NEED YOU, NOW! Various remuneration

Contact: Clive Greenwood on: (03) 961 5176 or email clive@academygroup.co.nz | www.magazinestoday.co.nz

• Research before hiring someone and the entrepreneur should think about their needs and the kind of advice they want from either a chartered accountant, professional bookkeeper, or tax agent – prices are dependent on how much expertise is needed, but this can help an entrepreneur save money in the long run.

3. Get data in order

• Keep all the expense receipts and invoices

• Keep copies of invoices sent out

• Keep data on various income or expenses, such as dividends or rental income.

4. Use the correct systems

Find a system that best suits the business.

• Talk to others and trial and error some systems to find the best one – there are lots of online software options that can save entrepreneurs time at affordable prices

• Otherwise, go for a paper-based system

• Consider getting professional help when beginning to ensure everything is set up correctly – it will save time and reduce stress. CT

Not everything has been listed from the website so for more information head to: www.business.govt.nz/tax-and-accounting/ tax-time-tips/how-to-make-tax-time-easier

• Your work ethic and discipline is essential

• Honesty is a must - humour appreciated

• You will need a good understanding of business and be able to talk to everyone from trades people to CEOs

• You MUST be oozing enthusiasm!

• Experience preferred, but not necessary as initial and on-going training and support provided

• Various remuneration packages available-made up of retainer plus commission, plus monthly bonuses, flexible hours and subsidised health insurance for you and your family.

The business.govt.nz website is a great place to find advice with businessrelated queries.

Up and running

Small business start-up tips

Flourish Foliage is a small Otautahi business located in the urban oasis, The Welder (on Welles Street), who are quite simply, flourishing at being a small business.

We speak with owner of Flourish Foliage, Hannah Guzy, to hear more about their journey and getting started as a small business in today’s economic landscape.

Hannah is exceptionally bubbly and passionate about her work as a business owner. She’s also stunningly realistic and authentic. She says starting a business at the end of 2019 has been a rollercoaster ride.

“I think any adversity such as facing lockdowns, cash flow issues and starting a business during a pandemic has its challenges.”

She says the community of small businesses which she is situated near in The Welder, as well as the local Christchurch community, have all been incredibly supportive.

“I enjoy seeing people comment on our products, or plant pots which they haven’t seen before. They then bring a friend inside the store and show them our products, too.”

Hannah says she loves seeing customers share their common interest for greenery, plants and home décor. She says this is a popular hobby amongst many people of all ages.

“I think we have realised over the years, bringing greenery into your home decor helps to soften things. Purchasing plants which are ‘easy’ to care for means people can be excited.”

One key tip to starting a small business, Hannah says, is having consistency within your product line and business initiative.

“It’s key to have a [centre] product, idea or service which you can sell well. Build up a loyal customer base and get to know your customers. You can then start adding in a multitude of different products afterwards.

“Don’t let GST catch you out either. Get a really good accountant to help you with the financial curve,” she laughs.

Starting a small business can be daunting with many aspects to consider including paying tax and GST.

There are many helpful resources online including Xero’s ‘Steps to starting a business guide’. This includes helpful points such as; advice for completing market research in detail, budgeting and forecasting, writing a business plan, strategies for business structure and more.

Ensuring you have the basics such as a website and social media which is user-friendly for your customers, means establishing yourself as a new business will run smoother.

Hannah says consistency within your business while starting is crucial. This helps to keep customers coming through the door and spreading the word about your business. Having conversations with other small business owners can also help to ease the stress of the business sector.

Hannah was originally trained as a primary school teacher, however, decided to take the risk and start her business when she was looking for a career change.

She says this was exciting and terrifying, but making the step into leasing a store and creating Flourish Foliage has been an opportunity she has not regretted.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) says, “New Zealand is a nation of small and micro businessesincluding self-employed”.

According to MBIE, a small business is considered a workplace with less than 20 employees. “There are approximately 546,000 small businesses in New Zealand… [contributing] over a quarter of New Zealand’s gross domestic product (GDP).”

Finding your niche as a business owner takes time, but once you are established there will be customers lining out the door. Consistency is key and eventually you will be able to experience the fruits of your labour.

As a consumer, purchasing from local businesses means these businesses will continue to thrive. Making small changes such as purchasing items weekly from local businesses supports our business owners. Christchurch has many great small businesses to check out in the CBD, Little High Eatery, The Welder, Riverside Market and more.

Make sure you head down to Flourish Foliage at The Welder soon. “Come and see us, it means the world!” says Hannah.

To find out more about Flourish Foliage, make sure to check out their website flourishfoliage.co.nz or follow them on Instagram at @flourishfoliage. CT

Starting a small business is no easy feat. It takes hard work and countless hours of developing to get to a profitable place as a new business.

Owner of Flourish Foliage, Hannah Guzy, pictured outside her store at The Welder, Flourish Foliage on Welles Street. Photo supplied by Flourish Foliage.

Inside Flourish Foliage. Photo supplied by Flourish Foliage.

It’s key to have a [centre] product, idea or service which you can sell well. Build up a loyal customer base and get to know your customers. You can then start adding in a multitude of different products afterwards.

Inside Flourish Foliage.

Photo supplied by Flourish Foliage.

By Michaela Pointon

The next online currency Investing in digital NFTs

What are NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), how do they work and what makes NFT a unique online digital currency?

There are many conversations circulating about the pros and cons of NFTs. Here are some points to consider when investing in this new-age currency.

What exactly are NFTs?

Essentially, an NFT is a piece of digital artwork or other similar asset, which has a unique value (one of a kind).

Tonkin and Taylor, New Zealand’s leading environmental and engineering consultancy likens NFTs to the original of Van Gogh’s Starry Night.

“While there are a countless number of [replica] prints of this gorgeous work of art, there is still only one version of the original. Starry Night is a non-fungible asset and that is where its value is determined.”

NFTs are mostly seen in creative online digital spaces such as empowering digital artwork. Some NFTs also give users access to in-game assets, such as loyalty programs or virtual experiences.

A reflection from The University of Auckland, says NFTs could potentially be used in other areas beyond online artwork, such as concert tickets where the owner of original tickets can be easily identified.

Ultimately meaning in the future, concert-goers will find it harder to be scammed of fake tickets the during re-selling process.

It could be assumed it’s ‘too early’ to tell what the long-term effects are of NFTS. Likewise, we may not yet have an accurate understanding of the potential wealth gained from these digital assets.

How can you make money from NFS?

If you’re an artist, make sure to consider selling your work as an NFT next time.

The University of Auckland says, “Until now, art has been hard to monetise broadly: collectors of original artworks have traditionally been a wealthy elite.

“Also, galleries and agents clip the ticket before the artist is paid. But NFTs can be used to cut out the gatekeepers, allowing artists to sell and distribute their work directly to the buyers, build ongoing wealth from it and create viral communities.”

They mention the world of NFTs create a more democratic and participatory approach than a traditional marketplace for artists. Essentially, artists get full or majority of pay for their work, instead of only a percentage.

If you are investing in NFTs, you would typically make profit from the potential rise to popularity of an artist, product or service within the NFT realm. Whilst this may be a gamble initially, there is potential to make big money.

Like any online currency, research needs to be done from the buyer and artist before an investment is made.

Ensuring you purchase an NFT from a reputable seller and understand in detail conditions of purchasing, you’re on the way to a successful modern-day investment plan. CT

While there are a countless number of [replica] prints of this gorgeous work of art, there is still only one version of the original. Starry Night is a nonfungible asset and that is where its value is determined.

Pyramid schemes and MLMs How to avoid being scammed

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Both of these schemes are regularly advertised as a quick and easy way to obtain money.

However, there are some key differences in the two with one actually being illegal in New Zealand.

First and foremost, pyramid schemes are illegal in New Zealand and, according to the Commerce Commission New Zealand, courts can fine individuals and companies up to $600,000 per offence if they are found guilty of breaching the provisions of the Act relating to pyramid schemes.

MLMs are not prohibited by the Fair-Trading Act, but some promoters of pyramid schemes try to make their schemes sound more like MLM’s.

Furthermore, it’s important to understand that pyramid schemes almost always end in a scam, hence why they’re illegal.

Promoters often spend a large quantity of money joining the scheme and never make that money back. Even MLM’s are reported to feel like “a scam.”

According to the Federal Trade Commission, most people who join MLM’s make little or no money. It says some people lose money and, in other cases, people believe they’ve joined a legitimate MLM but it turns about to be an illegal pyramid scheme.

So, what’s the difference? And, how can you spot them? The Commerce Commission says a pyramid scheme can take many forms but has the following essential elements.

“It offers a financial return based on the payments made by new recruits and the return is dependent primarily on the continued recruitment of new members, not sales of a product or service.”

MLM’s, on the other hand, involve actual products. This is the main defining factor.

“In a multi-level marketing scheme, income is expectation is limited by the number of sales, not by the number of new sales representatives. Customers of multi-level marketing companies can buy the goods or services they offer without joining the scheme,” the Commerce Commission says.

The Commerce Commission also provides a handy table to help identify a pyramid scheme.

It can be found at their website: www. comcom.govt.nz/consumers/dealing-withtypical-situations/pyramid-schemes

For example, it suggests looking out for a joining fee, unrealistic earnings and promotional literature such as “this scheme is legal” and “it’s easy to sign up new distributors”.

In summary, it’s important to be able to spot both a pyramid scheme and an MLM. While MLM’s are legal in New Zealand, they offer little to no actual success and customers/ distributors will often find themselves making little to no profit or having been scammed.

So, if you’re looking for a quick money fix, neither an MLM or a pyramid scheme is the answer. CT

For more information, please visit: www. comcom.govt.nz and www.consumer.ftc.gov

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DOUBLE THE FUN

Double Dribble’s Mia Zhao and Andy Shiau

By Michaela Pointon

The ramen bar ’s interior is dark with black leather booths. Pops of colour come from neon pink and blue LED lights, as well as intimate over-table lampshades.

Customers participate in the process of authentic food making, watching professional chefs create their moreish meals. Upstairs, the restaurant walls are covered in brightly coloured pop-culture graffiti art. There’s nowhere quite as unique as Ramen Ria.

Images by Krystle Inch of Krystle Photography.

Couple Andy Shiau (left) and Mia Zhao (right) outside their restaurant Muy Muy.

You may have visited Ramen Ria or one of Double Dribble’s popular venues located in the heart of Christchurch city including; Midnight Shanghai, Muy Muy, Eightgrains, Boom Boom Chicken, Dose Diner, Table of Munchies and more.

Dazzling hospitality enterprise, Double Dribble, was founded by power couple Mia Zhao (34) and Andy Shiau (39).

The pair have rapidly accelerated to success during the last six years, establishing 13 restaurants throughout the Christchurch CBD and employing over 140 staff members. The pair are humble, hard-working and approach every opportunity with an open-mind.

Mia and I sat down at their Japanese streetfood inspired resturant and bar, Ramen Ria, located at Riverside Market. Ramen Ria is an alleyway restaurant, tucked into the side of Riverside Market. It has a ‘secret menu’ or unground-esk vibrancy to it.

Mia, who originally trained as a computer scientist, is self-assured and easy to talk to. She says her journey deep into the hospitality industry was never expected. Partner Andy, however, has been passionate about pastries for a long-time, owning Dose Café before the couple met. The original location of Dose café was affected by the Christchurch earthquakes, so Andy reopened a new Dose café on Blenheim Road.

Mia’s family is originally from Nanjing, China and Andy’s family moved to Aotearoa from Taiwan when he was twelve years old. Eightgrains, located at Little High Eatery, was established in 2016 and is Double Dribble’s original dumpling bar. Founding Eightgrains was an authentic way for Mia’s parents to endeavour in New Zealand.

“My mum is a retired rocket scientist, so there was not a lot of work for her in New Zealand!” Mia laughs.

“When we first opened Eightgrains at Little High Eatery, we didn’t plan for it to develop into what it is today. We thought it might be a little shop or dairy style store where mum could participate.”

Family is an important aspect to why Double Dribble has been successful - everyone plays a role and contributes to it functioning.

Although Mia shies away from admitting it, it’s clear the families have only accomplished their prosperities through sheer determination, commitment, late nights and plain, simple hard work.

Mia says she believes her Asian culture plays a factor in why the businesses have been successful.

“In Asian culture, the work never stops. It’s taken a lot of change for us and our families to realise our past and culture is not always a benefit for business in New Zealand.

“Being in New Zealand has changed us. We have had to adapt and be more chill here. My mum is very intense and typically everything has to be the way she does it, but that’s not how you manage your team.”

Mia says for the first three years, the family struggled with separating themselves from their Asian heritage. “We learned we had to adapt and think about our team in a ‘Kiwi’ way,” says Mia.

When local food eatery Little High Eatery opened, the building was originally intended to be an office space but is now one of the most popular food venues in Christchurch. Five groups of business entrepreneurs, including Mia and Andy, were previous Container Mall owners.

“All of us business owners of us worked together to create Little High. All businesses who started it went in and built together for their own tenancy, as well as the Little High common spaces.

“I was pretty new to hospitality at the time, so I followed whatever Andy was doing. My mum suggested an authentic homemade dumpling recipe, and we started from there.”

She says herself and Andy continue to be offered new potential business opportunities from landlords and other establishments, but often turn these down.

Inside restaurant and bar, Ramen Ria.

Inside Boom Boom Chicken at Little High.

Recently in the last two years we have realised this is not just about passion. This is business which means you need to have goals to achieve, as well as knowing where you are headed.

Food from Eightgrains, Little High.

Inside restaurant and bar, Raman Ria.

“Riverside Market took two or three years to be built and then open. It’s the same landlord as Little High, so the opportunity came from there,” she says.

Setting goals and targets as a business has been a key aspect to Double Dribble enterprise’s growth.

“Recently in the last two years we have realised this is not just about passion. This is business which means you need to have goals to achieve, as well as knowing where you are headed.”

The pair are incredibly optimistic, acting on calculated spontaneity and creativity. According to Mia, Andy looks for inspiration all over the place, planning into the future with a long-term visionary mindset.

Mia says Ramen Ria started because their similar venue, Sushi Soldier also does Ramen. “We visited Japan to get authentic business research, such as noodle and bone broth recipes.

“We brought back with us a traditional Japanese noodle maker from the very best machine supplier. We then did further training and became the first food venue in Christchurch to make our own noodles.”

The team spent time perfecting the noodle recipe to ‘just right’. Not too thin, not too firm. Each of the 13 businesses have exceptional detail into every aspect.

Popular dessert and milk bar, Gelato and Tea, is another prime business example. The store is fitted-out with bubblegum pink paint, has candy inspired decor and is pitched as the perfect location to taste-test trending Instagram gelato flavours.

“It’s funny because there are many bubble tea and milkshake places, it’s nothing new. I think the difference is within our recipes. Most of our bubble teas use ice cream blended with tea for flavor and sweetness, rather than usual refined sugars. Slight differences like this draw customers in.”

Double Dribble continues to receive lots of positive feedback on their cuisines. “Learning

to explain our authentic food and telling the story behind our food has been interesting,” she says.

Mia says authentic Chinese food was normal for her growing up. However, until recent years this cuisine was not widely recognised in New Zealand.

“Many customers in the first couple of years would ask us, ‘What are dumplings?’ or ‘What are bao buns?’ (pronounced as ‘ba-ouch, without the ‘ch’). They would pronounce it as bay-o,” she laughs.

“When we travelled overseas, Andy would re-try authentic food from his childhood memories. He would add this to our menus if he hadn’t seen it within the Christchurch food market before.”

Double Dribble became its own entity during the Covid-19 lockdown period, when they built their gift card under one name as a support system. Their companies remain independent from each other, but one gift card for 10 venues was the main reason for Double Dribble.

“The direct translation of ‘double dribble’, 基 督城双下巴 in Chinese, means ‘Double chin’ in English. We didn’t think that would go down well!” Mia jokes.

When asked about her idea of what success means to her, Mia replies “To what end is success to us, we don’t know. Is it really a measurable thing?”

“At the end of the day I often ask Andy, ‘When do you think you will be able to retire from hospitality?’ He doesn’t think he will be able to at this stage. He has [a lot] of passion for his work.”

Mia says the couple’s to-do list is never-ending and there is no personal work-life balance whilst their businesses remain in a growth period state.

“The computer programming side of me drives me ‘nuts’ if I do not complete my task list for the day.”

She says at the moment the couple struggle to find time to themselves. “I am usually editing a

photo or making an Instagram reel late at night. We are constantly watching new food trends, or attempting to make a recipe better.”

Looking ahead to the future, Mia says she is excited for continued growth of their enterprise. She says the couple are considering starting their own supermarket line of frozen goods, including their ‘half-way-there’ specialties such as frozen dumplings and ramen noodles.

“I think customers do appreciate that we make our ingredients by hand in our kitchen. Although we don’t advertise this enough, customers pick us and that’s what we want!

“The feedback from the Christchurch community has been amazing, we are forever

grateful for every customer who has tried our food.”

If you are a local foodie looking to taste their authentic cuisine, need a bar for Friday work drinks, catering or a venue to be hired for a private birthday or work function, Double Dribble has a place for you.

If you would like to find out more about Double Dribble and their restaurants, make sure to visit their website at doubledribble. co.nz to see a full list of their venues. Follow Double Dribble Group on Instagram and Facebook to find more information about their independent stores. CT

Food being served at restaurant and bar, Ramen Ria.

I think customers do appreciate that we make our ingredients by hand in our kitchen. Although we don’t advertise this enough, customers pick us and that’s what we want!

Inside restaurant and bar, Raman Ria.

Inside restaurant Muy Muy.

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In season Five autumn fashion trends

By Michaela Pointon

Autumn fashion means putting the easy-throw-on summer sundresses to the back of the wardrobe and start layering!

The colour red:

A classy, classic and timeless edition to any style is the colour red. There is no doubt red is one of the most impactful colours which continues to be as popular as ever. A pop of red colour on the lips or on a pair of shoes, is sure to make a statement.

Match the natural elements and colours of the autumn season by opting for different shades of romantic reds, a bright orange undertone red or a burgundy purple-red, perfect for the night. It’s up to you, but intertwining red into any outfit is as sensual as ever!

Selecting outfits for the autumn season (which don’t lose all creativity) can be a challenge. Plus, living in Aotearoa means sometimes experiencing all four seasons in one day.

We take a look at what we predict will be in the top five fashion trends this autumn season.

Coats:

It’s no doubt that an autumn coat is the perfect essential to any outfit during the ‘chillier’ months. Investing in a coat which will last you multiple seasons to come is a great edition to any capsule wardrobe. Select a coat which reflects the seasons such as a light brown or a camel-caramel shade to elevate your outfit. There are many thicknesses and material durability options when it comes to selecting the coat for you.

Go for a waist-tie belt coat or an open midi-length trench coat which can carry you into the early stages of winter too.

Satin sets:

Sheer clothing:

It was popular during the summer festival season and sheer clothing is not going anywhere. A sheer mesh top layered underneath your autumn blazer is classy for the office or Saturday night drinks where you need to be a little warmer. There are endless patterns and colours of sheer mesh tops which are trending on the market, so be sure to pick one out from popular clothing stores such as Zara to add to your wardrobe today.

Different from sheer material mentioned before, satin sets which were increasingly popular during the New Zealand summer of 2022, are also staying.

We’ve mostly seen satin pyjama-style sets towards the end of last year, however, we predict these silky, sexy, matching sets will be making their way into everyday fashion. Satin sets look classy matched with slicked back hair, a pair of black boots and sunglasses.

We might see popular colours of khakis and neutrals, alongside funky patterned sets with geometric patterns, perfect for casual Fridays in the office.

Knee-high boots:

This footwear is the perfect autumn statement piece which instantly makes any outfit look put-together. Knee-highs are popular during the autumn season, as they’re too hot in the summer and leave a chilly gap in the winter.

Wear a mini skirt with knee-highs and a blazer for a classy going-out dinner look, or wear them under a midi dress at work for a put-together autumn-chic style. There are many different versions of knee-highs, with wider or narrower options available to fit a range of sizes. Many popular retail stores already have these in store, so make sure to get in quick.

Fashion trends are a fun way to feel part of the 2023 autumn era. In time, we might reflect back and think “What were we doing wearing sheer mesh tops!”.

But for now, these five fashion statements are trendy, classy and enjoyable pieces of clothing to add to your wardrobe this autumn!

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Lifestyles

Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Kettle

Forget the lumpy and boring electric kettle – this elegant kettle favours design. It’s also intelligent, boasting variable temperature control and 1200 watts for a quick heat time. The precise gooseneck spout is designed for optimal pourover flow rate which allows all the flavours to release with splashing over the rim.

RRP: $238

www.harrods.com/en-nz

Point Table Lamp White

If you’re looking for a unique table lamp, you’ve found it. Featuring a spherical, hand-blown glass shade and a matte white steel column, it’s clear this lamp is a unique and stylish piece. The lamp emits ambient light from the clear shade and the steel column has an integrated switch at the top, allowing you to dim the light.

RRP: $590

www.thedesigndepot.co.nz

Bowen All-Leather Backpack

This all-leather backpack is the stylish way to carry your belongings. It includes a built-in padded section for safely storing a laptop, a zip pocket, two fabric pockets and two penholders inside as well as a vertical zip pocket on the outside. Made in Portugal by skilled leather artisans from Italian leather, this backpack is both classy and practical.

RRP: $1,450

www.carlfriedrik.com

European Blue Frome Blanket

Invite a sense of warmth into your home with this luxurious blanket. With a blend of cotton and linen to give it a natural texture and feel, this soft blue blanket is perfect to keep you warm and stylish. Lay it across your bed or snuggle up on the couch in front of the fire as the weather cools off.

RRP: $349.99

www.adairs.co.nz

Oak Mikado Coffee Table

From Cuchi comes this Ethnicraft Mikado coffee table made from solid oak with a hard wax oil finish. With its unique legs and simple design, it makes a statement coffee table. It also lives alongside the Mikado dining table but it isn’t simply a smaller version of the dining table; it’s a complete reinterpretation of its larger design and a study of balance and symmetry.

RRP: $1,895

www.cuchi.co.nz

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Bugging out

Navigating the flu and cold season

By Michaela Pointon

She says plenty of rest and sleep supports our immune system. Herbs and supplements can also be beneficial to support natural functions. Vitamin D3, Omega 3, olive leaf and Vitamin C are favourable.

your lunch in the fresh air to keep your health on track this winter.

“As the sunlight hours reduce and the weather gets colder, it’s important for us to look after our physical and mental health,” says Christabel Ritson from the Holistic Naturopath. The Holistic Naturopath is a small Aucklandbased business owned by Christabel, who has a Bachelor’s degree in Naturopathy and Herbal Medicine, as well as a Diploma in Clinical Nutrition.

She says the reduction in sunshine reduces our levels of Vitamin D4 in the body, which is directly connected to our mood and immune function.

“Try to spend time outside when the sun is out and mix this with exercise to boost your happy endorphins.

“People tend to stay at home in the winter and the lack of social interaction can lower our moods, so it’s important to plan gatherings and warm nourishing dinners with loved ones to keep up community connections.”

“Nutrition feeds our immune system. Eating a wide variety of vegetables and fruit including berries, kiwis, oranges, mushrooms and quality fish can help.”

More colds and flus are spread during the winter months. Christabel says our microbiome and interstitial lining plays a pivotal role in our immune function, too.

“Assist this by reducing inflammatory foods and increase fermented foods or add bone broth to your stews and soups.”

She says if we are busy or stressed, our immune system function drastically decreases. “Illness takes energy, so allowing the body to rest and recover is vital.”

Supporting your health by continuing general wellbeing practices such as spending time in nature, exercising and having a densely nutritional diet is important.

When applied to a workplace, Christabel suggests keeping a flask of warm water and lemon at your desk, biking to work or eating

“Winter is naturally a [few] months for rest, recuperation and recharging our batteries. We’re supposed to hibernate like many other mammals!”

Her last piece of advice is to eat your vegetables. “Use a wide variety of root vegetables to roast, make a soup, stew or curry. Add ginger, turmeric or chilli flakes to warm your digestive tract.

“Winter meals are about warmth, density and nourishment. Eat healthy fats like nuts and seeds and drink your herbal teas.”

Christabel sees clients for individual sessions, delivers newsletters and is running retreats around Aotearoa this year.

“If you’d like to learn more for your health journey, or book me to visit your community with a talk or yoga class, I’d love to hear from you.”

To find out more about Christabel and The Holistic Naturopath, visit her website at theholisticnaturopath.co.nz, give her a call on 021 08384368 or check out her Instagram @theholisticnaturopath. CT

Caffeine culture

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

– found in everyone’s favourite morning

Health Navigator NZ says caffeine is one of the worlds mostly widely used drugs. “It’s found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, cola drinks, chocolate, fermented beverages (kombucha), and some dietary supplements and medications,” it says.

It describes caffeine as a stimulant that increases activity in the brain and nervous system. There are, of course, guidelines around how much caffeine is okay to consume in a day.

“Research suggests 400mg per day is acceptable for most people but it does depend on your body size and metabolism,” Health Navigator NZ says.

Too much caffeine in a day can have risky side effects such as fast or abnormal heart beat, anxiety or panic attacks, increased blood pressure and more.

The long-term side effects of regular caffeine have been linked to nervousness, insomnia, dehydration, stomach irritation and fatigue, according to Princeton University research.

None of this is to say that your morning coffee is inherently bad.

However, if you’re wanting to cut down on your caffeine intake, here are some low caffeine/ caffeine free alternatives that can still help wake you up and help you focus.

Matcha tea is a type of green tea that, when brewed in a certain manner, contains less caffeine than coffee. Healthline says it contains an abundance of beneficial antioxidants in a single serving.

However, matcha tea, when brewed in a different manner, can actually contain more caffeine than coffee, so it pays to be careful with this one.

If you’re looking to get rid of caffeine completely, lemon juice in warm water is a nice way to start the morning.

Lemon juice also helps support liver function so you’re doing your body a favour.

Another one is ginger tea which can bring some zing into your morning and it supports healthy digestion and blood circulation.

Juice is another decent alternative; however, you do need to be aware of the sugar content as an overload of sugar can be just as harmful.

However, for those who really like coffee and don’t want to quite relinquish that taste and ritual, there are some interesting coffee alternatives.

Teeccino, a New Zealand brand, makes herbal coffee’s that have no caffeine. They say their alternatives are roasted and ground to brew and taste just like coffee. Check them out at: www.teeccino.co.nz

Overall, there are both benefits and downsides of coffee and its alternatives. It pays to be

mindful of what you’re consuming at all times, not just when it involves something like caffeine.

But, if you want to know more about caffeine and find an alternative that works for you, check out the links below. CT www.healthline.com

www.uhs.princeton.edu/health-resources/ caffeine

www.healthnavigator.org.nz

Staying healthy during the winter is vital to staying on track in your personal life and work.

Owner of The Holistic Naturopath, Christabel Ritson. Photo supplied by The Holistic Naturopath.

Caffeine

beverages – is becoming a bit of a contentious issue with health professionals and the general public becoming more aware of its side effects and potential dangers.

Creating a productive workplace Welcoming warmth into your office

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

As we move into the colder months, taking a closer look at how your office space looks is a great idea.

Spaceworks Interior Architecture CEO, Lizzi Whaley, says as we change from summer to winter, changing the way a place feels to make it cosy is important.

“Changing how a place feels can be as simple as colour, light and colour temperature,” says Lizzi. “Moving from cooler colours to warmer colours helps create that sense of warmth.”

Lizzi says the sense of warmth is more of a psychological response rather than a physical response.

She says people can play up those psychological cues to create warmth. One example of this is if you paint one room blue and one room a rusty orange, people will perceive the rusty coloured one as warmer, despite both rooms being the exact same temperature.

“In many offices, people often use cooler light or daylight but, in key areas, look at using a warmer light source,” Lizzi says.

She explains that it’s as easy as changing out some lightbulbs in common areas.

Office spaces can take further steps to encourage a sense of warmth and this can look like implementing colour scheme changes and décor. Lizzi says some offices might change a

feature wall colour or put up some wallpaper with patterns.

Patterns such as natural patterns like a timber look or a warm colour pattern can assist with creating warmth. Lizzi says generally, patterns with a fluid and rounder shape work best as they’re less jagged and less harsh to look at.

Choosing a new colour scheme can be daunting but, generally speaking, it’s actually quite simple. You don’t even have to just stick to oranges and reds.

“With every colour, you can choose to have a warmer version,” Lizzi says.

“Where you might have a bright and crisp lime green, you can also have an olive green that is warmer. There are even options with blue which is generally seen as the coolest colour.

“A wall could go from a clear and bright blue to a duck egg blue.

“Around whatever colour palette you’re wanting, erring on the warmer side of the palette than the cooler will help.

“So often, businesses will choose a white, grey and brand colours palette, but it’s an unsuccessful thing.

“It’s also not required in an office to throw the brand colour down your throat. Creating an office vibe that’s cosy and welcoming is much more effective.”

However, Lizzi understands that a lot of offices have a lot of white and there may be a sense of nervousness around using colour. “Use timber or oak in items such as desks or tabletops to create warmth,” she says.

“Anything that brings in some timber elements. Another simple solution is adding Autex which is a fast way of making a bold colour change without getting a painter in.”

Autex is an acoustic solution which are panels and other products that can be adhered to walls to reduce echoes and sound disturbance. However, they’re also excellent for a pop of colour and can be used as a working pinboard too. Lizzi says Autex have a great colour selection.

Flowers are another way to bring more colour and warmth into a space.

“Plants have long been popular and still are but, if people are a bit tired of plants, in the darkest of winter, add a flower subscription to keys areas,” Lizzi says.

However, people in corporate offices can often shy away from flowers, plants and other décorbased options so Lizzi reiterates that changing work surfaces to timber helps.

“We generally don’t get people styling offices like you would at home.

“At one of the offices I was in, we had lap blankets that hung over the backs of chairs. They were black which was on brand for the company but it was nice since some people run at different temperatures than others,” Lizzi explains.

It depends on how far people want to go.

“People don’t often consider how much a really cool artwork with bright colours can change a space. Consider getting an art subscription where the art changes every couple of months.”

Whether it be paint, wall panels or lighting, décor, flowers or art, you can create a cosy office atmosphere in time for winter on whatever budget suits you best. CT

Having an office that reflects the seasons can help boost people’s moods and be an effective morale booster.

Keeping your head in the game Managing stress and wellbeing when running a business

By Natsha Parrant

If a business owner doesn’t feel like their normal self, they need to take small, lifechanging steps to manage their stress and well-being in their life, so their work environment is positive and calm. There are many Aotearoa resources online on how to manage mental health.

On the business.govt.nz website there is some helpful information, such as what mental health is.

“Mental health… will be influenced by many things, e.g. family or work stress… sometimes people feel good like they’re functioning and coping well. At other times they will feel not so well and less able to deal with stress or setbacks.”

When an employer feels poorly or distressed, they may need to visit a doctor to see if they need to be diagnosed with a mental health condition like depression or anxiety.

According to the website, mental health in Aotearoa is common. Business owners need support during this tough time by talking about it and potentially making some lifestyle changes.

Nearly half of the people living in Aotearoa will meet the criteria for a mental illness diagnosis at some stage during their lifetime and one in five people will get a mental health diagnosis annually, according to business.govt.nz

Another helpful website - First Steps Nga Hikoi Tuatahi – works to put the health and wellbeing of Aotearoa businesses first. It’s a space that encourages employers, employees and managers to take care of their well-being, so they can grow a successful business while maintaining a good work-life balance.

Entrepreneurs and managers go through a lot of challenges because of their heavy workload and unpredictability causing uncertainty, fear, grief, loss of control, self-doubt, and/or disconnection.

That’s why First Steps makes it easier fo these people to have the support they need. They provide the tools, resources and perspectives to make them feel heard, understood and supported.

First Steps is a national enterprise that teamed up with the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment, the Ministry of Health, the

Up and running Morning routine tips

Taking a moment to breathe and have a clear mind before seeking the day means your outlook on life will be sparkling.

Ellie Bell is a certified life coach who specifically supports women to be their authentic self. Ellie’s approach with her clients is to guide them to understand the impact of their beliefs, mindset, values and emotions.

She says having a morning routine is really important, but she also understands the reality of making this happen.

“It can be hard to get up when the alarm goes off at 6am if I have been up all night with my two small children to spend time on my routine.

“My overarching approach is to have a morning routine which can be managed with compassion and flexibility considering real life.

“The last thing we want is to have a morning routine where if we miss a step, we feel like we’ve failed before the day has even started.”

She says despite this, having some nonnegotiables around your morning routine can set you up for success with relative ease.

“If we can find a way to connect inwards before the day fully starts, I believe most aspects of your day will be improved, whether that is decision making, self-talk, being present or general happiness.”

Auckland Chamber of Commerce, and the Employers and Manufacturers Association. It is private and free.

The website provides an assessment tool to see how business peoples’ well-being is and how they can improve it by taking a two-three minute quiz.

There is also a tab on wellbeing professionals, so business people can directly get in touch with experts to talk about their mental health or participate in various things that will benefit their mental health and wellbeing.

On offer are coaching, in-person and online courses, online tools, physical training and nutrition, therapy and counselling, workshops, and programmes. Other resources include evidence-based advice and perspective from the well-being community, videos on various well-being topics like stress management, and articles and news with information on how to come up with ways to manage mental health and well-being while incorporating a healthy routine/lifestyle. CT

Making your morning routine as easy and short as possible is one tip to help with establishing this new pattern.

If you struggle with routines, Ellie suggests starting with a small task such as once you’ve made your cup of tea or coffee, taking a moment to savour the first sip.

“Don’t start with an hour-long routine plan of exercise, journaling and meditation.” Starting with small tasks and introducing these into your daily routine will be more sustainable and achievable long-term.

“We have to build habits slowly for them to really stick. Once you’ve managed the first steps for a couple weeks, add another element and so on.”

Having a space to talk through what’s going on is important for everyone. Having someone to hold you accountable for your morning routine can also help, especially if you feel defeated during the initial stages.

“Building a routine which supports change takes time and focus. It doesn’t happen overnight but that’s okay, as this journey allows us to learn more about ourselves. We want to be curious and kind to ourselves - no judgement please!” she laughs.

If you would like to find out more about Ellie Bell and her coaching services, make sure to contact her via her website at: elliebellcoaching.com. CT

Mental health is important to take care of, so an employer looking after themselves is essential when running a business because their mood and presence can affect the entire team.

Starting your day with a morning routine will set you up for a successful day and a positive mindset.

Life coach, Ellie Bell. Photo supplied by Ellie Bell Coaching.

Walking wonders 10 reasons to stay active

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Keeping fit and healthy can be difficult, especially if you work an office job.

There aren’t as many opportunities to get up and about when stuck in a cubical so ensuring you’re maintaining your physical fitness can be tricky to prioritise. And, if you aren’t already someone who loves going to the gym, it can be especially difficult.

However, if you are worried about your fitness and health, there are some simple things you can do to get yourself moving without interrupting the flow of your day.

Simply walking is a wonderful way to get your daily exercise.

The Ministry of Health recommends at least two and a half hours of moderate intensity activity per week to stay healthy.

“Moderate intensity activity causes a slight, but noticeable, increase in breath and heart rate. You can still carry a conversation,” it says. This amount of activity can be spread out over the course of the week so, when you break it down, it’s only 30 minutes a day during the work week.

If you count in the weekend, you only need to do just over 20 minutes of moderate intensity activity every day. This is a pretty achievable goal – even for those with busy lives.

Sometimes it can be difficult to prioritise exercise and activity though when you consider the other important things that take up your time.

Looking after your body and your mind is vital. So, how much time do you have each day on either side of your work schedule?

The Ministry of Health has a list of Top 10 Reasons to Stay Active.

1 You’ll be in better overall health.

2. You’ll have more energy.

3. You’ll have better posture and balance.

4. You’ll have stronger muscles and bones.

5. It’s fun.

6. It raises your self-esteem.

7. It helps you manage your weight.

8 It improves your fitness.

9. It can improve your sleep.

10. You’ll feel more relaxed and less stressed.

If you’re someone who gets up pretty early before work, you might be able to fit in a small walk, jog or even a run. Just getting in a 15-minute walk is much better than staying sedentary and is a great start to the day.

Getting out into the fresh morning air can help improve your mindset for the day.

Taking a post dinner walk in the evening is also a great start. It can help you digest your food and, if you go for a walk instead of watching TV or scrolling through the internet, it helps with your sleep routine.

You can even get in a few minutes of activity during work. How often do you eat at your desk?

Consider briskly walking outside to eat lunch and, once you’ve finished eating, find somewhere nice to walk around until your lunch break is up.

“Whatever your age, walking is an easy and low-cost option. Walk wherever you can,” says the Ministry of Health.

“Take the stairs instead of the lift. Leave the car at home. Get off the bus one stop earlier to walk the extra distance. Walk to the train station. Take your dog for a walk.”

For busy parents who work and then get home and still have an incredibly busy life, get the kids out on a walk.

The Ministry of Health says that children and teenagers between five and 17 years old need to do at least an hour of moderate activity spread out over each day! A family walk after dinner is a great way to get some exercise, get the kids off their screens and bond.

If your work isn’t too far away from your house, considering cycling in fine weather.

It’s a great way to get the blood pumping and work out some muscles that might not usually get used. If your work is really close, consider walking there in fine weather.

Of course, when it’s pouring down with rain, walking and cycling doesn’t sound very inviting. It’s important to exercise on your own terms and be flexible with it otherwise you’re going to begin resenting it and stop doing it all together.

So, before you worry that incorporating exercise into your already busy life is going to be yet another thing to stress about –remember that walking every day, even for only 15-20 minutes is incredibly useful. CT For more information, visit: www.health.govt.nz

Office essentials Great gadgets for your workspace

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Whether it be a home office or a corporate office, this technology is useful, clever and will bring your space into the now.

Continuing with the theme of getting up and about, this next gadget is currently trending.

The Ape Style FX1000 Ultra Slim Foldable 2-1 Walking and Jogging Treadmill answer to keeping that step count up while working. Compact and unobtrusive, it’s great for home offices so you can keep moving as you answer those pesky work emails.

RRP: www.mightyape.co.nz

If you’re someone who works with a laptop but are always needing a bit more screen space, this is going to be your new favourite thing. Introducing the Xebec Tri-screen 2.

It connects to your laptop and gives you two extra screens! Compatible with pretty much any laptop, this device expands your laptop with full HD clarity. Lightweight and portable, the Tri-screen can go with you on work trips too.

RRP: $599 www.smartofficetech.co.nz

Starting off with a fairly well-known piece of technology – the Sit Stand Desk

This sit stand desk is made from bamboo and available in a variety of colours. Having one of these really helps with getting you up and out of the office chair. Straighten out your back and get some movement into your day!

RRP: $999 www.standdesk.nz

De-cluttering your desk can be tricky when you need to charge your phone and other devices.

However, the Pout HANDS 3 PRO Fast Wireless Charging Mouse Pad helps get rid of unnecessary cables. Simply plug it in and you can place your phone or any compatible device onto the pad and watch them charge. With a slick look and neutral colours, you’ll hardly even know its there.

RRP: $46 www.pbtech.co.nz

There’s a lot of cool, new technology out there that can bring comfort, efficiency and modernisation to an office space.

Office lighting can sometimes be harsh and hard on the eyes.

The BENQ Screen bar LED Monitor Light is a pretty nifty device that clips to the top of your monitor to provide lighting that reduces eye strain, automatically detects surrounding brightness and supplements the correct amount of light. It negates screen glare and features adjustable colour temperature to increase efficiency and comfort.

RRP: $219

www.playtech.co.nz

Are you worried about paper waste? Do you get frustrated with transcribing hand written notes? Then this digital paper is for you. The reMarkable 2 is a tablet that feels just like writing on paper. It can convert handwritten text to typed text, has two weeks of battery life and simplifies notes, reviewing documents and much more. You can then access your notes from anywhere as it integrates with Google Drive, Drobox, Microsoft One Drive and more.

RRP: $599 www.remarkable.com

Nothing is more frustrating than a noisy environment when you’re trying to stick to a deadline. Noise cancelling headphones are the answer.

The Sennheiser HD450 Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones offer crisp audio quality, active noise cancellation and a compact design. They’ve even got a long-lasting battery that can go for up to 30 hours.

RRP: $297 www.harveynorman.co.nz

A slightly bigger gadget but a useful one nonetheless – the Dyson Purifier Hot and Cool keeps the air around you clean and the perfect temperature. This device automatically purifies the whole room and can be voice controlled. Plus, it keeps your office space cosy in the winter and cool in the summer. For the best air in your office, grab one of these.

RRP: $1,099 www.dyson.co.nz

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

Inside innovation

The simple brilliance behind Pepa Stationery

By Natasha Parrant

Pepa

Stationery is a local independent stationery shop selling stationery, books and accessories located in the Boys High building at The Arts Centre in Otautahi, Christchurch.

Pepa is the te reo Māori word for paper.

Pepa Stationery was established by Christchurch entrepreneur Ami Muir in late 2017. In February 2019, the business was sold to Hannah Hutchinson and Hannah’s husband, as Ami had other ventures to focus on. Hannah had been working part-time for the store with a background in design before taking on Pepa Stationery.

The company was founded because Ami loved stationery and saw the opportunity to utilise a beautiful space in The Art Centre that became available at the time.

The small team currently has two team members working alongside the Pepa Stationery director Hannah.

Hannah has a lot of passion for paper goods and how they can make people’s day.

“We love being part of The Arts Centre community and part of Christchurch and really our customers – people who love stationery, art and design and very much really excited to discover products, and it’s cool being able to facilitate that and be able to showcase designs that we really love and that other people will love.”

Hannah’s proudest accomplishment so far is running a business without having a business background. Hannah never thought she would be a business owner until she and her partner were offered the company.

Like with most small businesses, Covid-19 majorly impacted Pepa Stationery.

“We’re very proud of the fact we got through with little background to fall back on.”

“The pandemic was our biggest challenge. Just a real unknown thought as to what the future would hold.

“That’s a hard thing about all the new businesses that were starting out around Covid is that you’ve not got a lot of data to really refer back to know if that’s normal or not - you don’t have a reference point really.”

The team overcame these challenges with short-term planning and adapting accordingly, she says.

Pepa Stationery is known for its local and international products. The store sells many products from Japan, so it’s about working with supplies, being flexible, and knowing what products are available while also meeting their customers’ needs, Hannah says.

“With stationery, there’s a lot of paper goods, there’s a lot of stuff that is made in New Zealand but there’s a lot of stationery that isn’t.

“We just don’t have as much manufacturing here of some of these types of items in New Zealand and so for us, that’s why we’ve gone to places like Japan for brands that do stationery and do stationery really well – and they’re really well known for it.”

When Pepa Stationery first opened the store was located close the Christchurch i-SITE, which had many international tourists come to the store who wanted to see local designs.

When the borders closed the team’s focus shifted to their national customers predominantly.

Since customers couldn’t visit other countries, the team wanted to facilitate international products and that’s how they moved more internationally over that time.

The team wanted to ensure they could get their customers products they loved.

These days it’s about finding that balance with local and international stationery that fits their brand and cohesion, she says.

“We need to have a good mix of stationery items.”

Pepa Stationery aims to improve its website and launch a loyalty scheme for customers within the next month or two, so customers can keep an eye out for that.

What makes Pepa Stationery unique is its customer experience as the team puts lots of detail into the products and experience in-store and online.

Stationery is quite a tactile experience as customers often want to touch the products and see them in person, Hannah says. “And know how they will interact with them in their life – you can get that online but it’s not quite the same.

“For us, it’s about being able to provide a space where customers feel welcomed. We have a writing desk as we want them to be able to explore and not feel like they’re being rushed.”

Even if customers want to browse, they have the opportunity to come inside the store and see the products for themselves.

“It’s a little bit of a sanctuary to just enjoy.”

Similar to their online presence, the team wrap the products with tissue and write a handwritten note with every order, so it feels like a special experience for customers when they open their delivered Pepa Stationery, Hannah says. CT

Pepa Stationery

28 Worcester Boulevard

Otautahi Christchurch pepastationery.co.nz

Image supplied by Pepa Stationery,

Pepa Stationery is located at The Arts Centre in Otautahi, Christchurch. Image supplied by Pepa Stationery,

Our skilled and dedicated team provide a level of service that is unmatched, and we ensure that we exceed our client’s expectations on every project by meeting deadlines and budgets.

We are proud to serve our clients in the canterbury region and would love to take the time to chat with you about your next project. Our skilled team are experienced in providing a high-end product that exceeds expectations.

Our Services

Glass Repairs & Replacements

Insurance Claims

Retro-fit Double Glazing

Commercial Glass & Store Fronts

Frameless Glass Showers

Glass Splashbacks

Glazing For New Builds

Glass Balustrades

Glass windbreaks & Shelters

Glass Canopies

Our dedicated team has over 60 years of industry experience between them, so you can be assured that you are in safe hands when dealing with us.

Sales: Dave Dunbar 021 328 784

Hours: 7:30am – 5:30am (Mon - Fri)

Showroom & Workshop: Postal: PO Box 161, Rangiora, 7440 Physical: 5 Southern Cross Drive,Rangiora (Flaxton Rd, Business Park)

Our skilled & dedicated fabrication team is headed by Michael Field who has been in the trade for over 20 years, working in all areas of metal fabrication, and has worked on projects such as The Christchurch Convention & Exhibition Centre, Christchurch Hospital & Riverside Market. He, and his team, provide a level of service that is unmatched, and they ensure that they exceed our clients expectations by meeting deadlines & budgets.

North Canterbury’s Automotive Glass Specialist!

Industrial and agricultural equipment glass, all vehicle types and all insurance work undertaken.

The team at Waimak Windscreens have over 60 years of combined experience in the industry and are able to make repairs to, or replace auto glass in everything from your family car to your caravan and from commercial vehicles to your cherished classic.

We also make life easy by offering loan vehicles so that you can get on with your day whilst we get on with the job at hand.

1. Jason Burns (Go Media) & Jonathon Olding

2. Yvonne Gray, (Captain) Rebecca Nelson & Jo Boocock

3. Christine Korako & Chrissie Mauger

4. Chrissie Mauger & Phil Mauger (Mayor)

5. Clive Greenwood, Jacqueline & Bevan Killick

6. Yvonne Gray, (Captain) Carolyn Tapley (Coastguard)

7. Hamish Lamont, (Amberley Estate) Khristin Hach & Jason Burns

8. Yvonne Gray & Dan Gordon (Waimakariri Mayor).

What a financial adviser does

They are required to hold a license issued by the FMA to operate and are monitored to ensure they comply with their obligations and treat you fairly. This means putting your interests first, providing financial advice that is suitable for you and your situation and ensuring that you understand their financial advice.

Financial stress has become one of the biggest impacts on the mental well-being of New Zealanders, with concerns rising even higher for women and young adults.

Whether you’re saving to buy your first home, worried about rising mortgage rates, or concerned about financing your retirement, the good news is that individuals who get professional financial advice are more likely to feel happy with their financial position and better prepared for the future than those who don’t.

According to research by Financial Advice New Zealand (‘Better Behaviours’ and ‘Trust in Advice’), Kiwis who engage the services of a professional financial adviser feel more confident in their financial decision-making, in control, and clearer about their finances. They have contingencies in place to handle unexpected costs and know how to utilise their KiwiSaver to the best of their ability.

So, what is a financial adviser and what can they do for you?

In New Zealand, a financial adviser is a professional who provides specialist advice and assistance to individuals and businesses on a wide range of financial matters including financial planning, insurance, investing and mortgages.

Their primary role is to help clients achieve their financial goals. They will work with you to understand your individual goals and aspirations and provide recommendations and advice relevant to your situation and ensure that you have the knowledge you need to help you make decisions at critical points in your life.

Not just anyone can be a financial adviser in New Zealand. Financial Advisers are highly regulated by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA), which sets standards for their education, qualifications, and conduct.

According to Financial Advice NZ research, over 90 percent of those surveyed who have used a financial adviser rated them as good or very good with regard to trustworthiness, and more than 85 percent were satisfied or very satisfied with the help they receive. It’s reassuring to know that financial advisers are seen as trusted professionals by those who consulted them Advisers usually specialise in one particular area, so it’s important that you engage the right type of adviser for your needs. It’s okay to work with different advisers for different things such as an adviser for your mortgage, and one for your insurance.

Depending on where you are on your financial journey, you’ll have different priorities and requirements, so you may like to consider getting a financial planner to help you to plan ahead and work out how to achieve your longterm financial goals.

Regularly reviewing your financial needs and goals is an important part of increasing your financial health, wealth and well-being. CT

Let’s Talk About Your Future.

TAILORED ADVICE

We look at you, the individual and your unique circumstances, and tailor each package to your specific needs. Our passion lies in helping others, whether that be getting you into your first home or assisting you in reaching your financial goals, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

TALK TO THE TEAM

Book an appointment online via our website. We are able assist by using video calls throughout NZ (no need to meet in person). The best part is, it costs you nothing to speak with one of our advisors and we work closely with a large panel of lenders meaning we do all the leg work in sourcing you the best deal from the bank.

At the Mortgage Room we understand that when it comes to structuring your home loan or organising your insurance packages, it’s not one size fits all.

Now, more than ever, New Zealanders are worrying about having enough money to put food on the table, let alone putting enough money away for a rainy day should they fall victim to an earthquake or an extreme weather event, as recently seen in Auckland and Hawke’s Bay.

Financial Advice New Zealand CEO Katrina Shanks.

This will also ensure you are building financial resilience, which is fundamentally important to ensure you have financial security in the future.

Some of the key services provided by financial advisers include:

Financial planning: Perhaps you need help with making financial goals? Or perhaps you have goals and want to know how to achieve them. A financial planner will work with you to create a comprehensive financial plan that takes into account your current financial situation, future goals, and risk tolerance.

Mortgage planning: Want to buy your first home and don’t know where to start? Perhaps you have a mortgage and want to know how you can pay it off quicker. A financial adviser will give tips on how you can be mortgage free quicker than you think.

Insurance planning: Thinking about insurance? Do you need to protect your income, health, mortgage or children? At different stages of your life, you require different insurance that provides peace of mind and protection if the unexpected occurs. A financial adviser can provide information on the types of personal insurance cover that are available and plan the right cover for your needs.

Investment management: Whether it’s shares, managed funds or even property it can be difficult to navigate what investment is the best option for you. We all have different risk profiles depending on our age, stage and circumstances in life. A financial planner professional will highlight different options which are available for you.

Retirement planning: Want financial freedom for your retirement? It is never too late to have this conversation and to action a plan for your future financial security. A financial adviser can help ensure you can enjoy your retirement.

To find an adviser head to www.financialadvice.nz and search for an

Can your business survive if you are not able to work?

Who depends on you?

Will your personal finances be ok?

Can you still pay your business expenses?

We know that for the majority of small privately owned businesses, there is a strong dependence on the business owner for the business’s success and survival.

If something happens to the owner and they can’t work for a period of time, things can start going backwards quite quickly.

The business owner may lose a key source of their personal income and business expenses still need to be paid. If they have borrowed money for the business (or personally) then their assets might also be at risk. If it’s really serious the business may have to shut down or be sold.

Our purpose is to help business owners protect their business, personal income and assets by

adviser by the type of advice and region. It helps to shop around to find the right adviser for you. It’s best to talk to at least three to find the right fit and one you feel confident in and comfortable with. The FMA website has some good tips to consider when choosing an adviser.

Overall, financial advisers play a critical role in helping individuals and businesses navigate

putting plans in place to manage the financial risks caused by events such as injury, disablement and death.

Where the analysis shows the business can’t retain the risk, We will advise on the appropriate insurance to transfer the risk to.

As specialists in insurance, Optimalife helps business owners solve 3 key problems:

1. How to keep the business running if something happens to the owner and they need time to recover.

2. How to protect the surplus the business generates for personal income so they can continue to maintain their lifestyle.

3. If it’s really serious. how to wind the business down and deal with any creditors, debts and other business owners.

With our knowledge of ACC products we can also optimise income protection to best support those with fluctuating incomes, the newly self employed and those wanting to choose their ACC cover amount.

complex financial matters and achieve their financial goals.

They will help you better prepare for the future, be more comfortable with your financial position and confident in your financial decision-making. Wherever you are on your financial journey, getting the right advice will help you on your way. CT

I’m David Pottinger, a Registered Financial Adviser with specialist knowledge and tools to help support small businesses manage their financial risks that arise from unforeseen and unexpected events.

As a business owner with a young family, I understand the demands on those who live busy and full lives and understand how easy it can be for the important stuff to be ignored or forgotten.

Working with the client’s best interests at the centre of my service., it’s not about selling insurance, it’s about creating a tailored risk plan which works best to their needs, at the time when they need it most.

I guide you through the process, help with applications and support you at claim time to ensure a nice and smooth experience at all times. My support can extend to your employees with group insurance or KiwiSaver advice.

For more information about how I can help you, contact me now. I provide a free service with no hidden fees.

For what you do. For who you love.

Getting good advice for tough decisions

“The last few years have been an absolutely rollercoaster for businesses. There’s been so much change, from the pandemic to new government policies and standards, rapid inflation, shifting consumer trends and supply chain issues.

“There is lots of advice out there, but it pays to get it from someone who is backed by a strong membership organisation like CA ANZ, that delivers ongoing professional development, a code of ethics, a conduct process and ongoing support. When you engage a chartered accountant, you’re getting all of that, and the best help for your business.

“Whether you want to break even, keep pace with growth or explore new opportunities, CAs are uniquely equipped to guide decisions that make a difference to your business. They can help with much more than just tax. From financial strategy, to cashflow, compliance and business development, a CA will have you covered, and give you peace of mind,” Murray says.

CA ANZ Canterbury Local Chair, Luiza Veras, ACA, says that the strength of the local

Canterbury CA community comes from strong ties to local businesses.

“Canterbury’s members are renowned for their deep connections to our local industries and businesses,” she says. “Our CAs know the industries, they know the people, the challenges, and the opportunities. If you’re feeling like you’re entering unchartered territory, or in a particularly complex stage of business, then a local chartered accountant is the ideal person to help you succeed.”

Public practice

An extra level of reassurance is that any chartered accountant who offers accounting services to the public must be a Chartered Accountant and hold a Certificate of Public Practice (CPP).

The requirements for the issuing of this certificate are that (amongst others) a member must have had two years of acceptable practical experience, while a member of the CA ANZ and have attended a course for new practitioners. They are also subject to practice reviews to ensure they’re maintaining the standard needed to offer public service.

Would you like a better home loan, and to save more money?

How will the Mortgage Shop make life easier for you?

• By giving you Choice: We have access to different products and can mix and match personal plans to suit your specific needs.

• The right home ownership and loan structure will help you pay off your home loan faster and save you a lot of money,

• We make it work best for you, not the bank

• Your protection is my priority. By surrounding you with reputable professionals, I aim to protect you and your family. This ensures all round financial protection and certainty.

With over 35 years experience in the finance industry, and many qualifications, I have learnt that bringing client success is the most rewarding part of my career. The Mortgage Shop is well established, with clients across the world. And I know my clients well. It is my personalised service that sets The Mortgage Shop apart from banks.

Acquiring the best mortgage is not just about interest rates. It’s about the long- term expectations combined with your lifestyle and life plans. “Looking after my people is so important not only now, but in the future.

This is why The Mortgage Shop is different.”

Open all hours: My clients like my quick response and personal service, and that I push the banks for good deals. I genuinely care and have a goal to make the home loan realistic for each person. As a founding member of Financial Advice New Zealand and the Financial Services Institute of Australasia, I am well versed in interest rate markets and Risk protection.

The Mortgage Shop is conveniently located at The Vale in Gerald Street, and clients find it beneficial that the offices are shared with Lincoln Law.

“The advantage to you is that we often work together to reduce costs and manage a comprehensive plan to ensure your family and you major assets are given the protection they deserve. This includes wills, family trusts, and conveyancing, as well as all other legal services”.

What to look for

Chartered Accountants can be identified by a ‘CA’ after their name, as well as FCA (Fellow Chartered Accountant) and ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant). Member firms will often have the CA logo on display, as well as their Certificates of Public Practice.

Trusted and ethical

All Chartered Accountants are bound by an internationally recognised Code of Ethics, meaning they are held accountable to high professional and ethical standards which is backed by a robust discipline process. The fundamental principles of the Code of Ethics are integrity, objectivity, professional competence and due care, confidentiality and professional behaviour. If anything goes wrong with a non-chartered accountant, there’s no disciplinary tribunal or remediation there.

Highly qualified

To become a Chartered Accountant, a person must complete the CA Program, which is an accredited postgraduate qualification that sets rigorous entry standards and involves a series of demanding assessments based on realworld scenarios. It is made up of a Graduate Diploma of Chartered Accounting (GradDipCA) and Mentored Practice Experience (MPE). This training equips Chartered Accountants to be growth accelerators, critical thinkers, innovators and digitally savvy experts who can guide businesses to navigate disruption and unpredictable environments.

Depth of experience

Chartered Accountants are required to have completed three years of mentored experience to apply their knowledge and skills to solve problems and make decisions. They are also obligated to keep their skills current through mandatory, ongoing professional development to maintain their Chartered Accountant designation.

What you can expect from your chartered accountant

Chartered Accountants understand the complexity of business. After all, they’re in the engine room of businesses just like yours. Whether it’s improving cashflow, raising capital or investing in new equipment, a chartered accountant can help model the scenarios you need to survive and thrive.

And they can help you embrace technology solutions to streamline your financial processes and systems, so you can keep focusing on doing what you do best. Chartered Accountants are adept with a range of cloud providers such as Xero and MYOB.

By choosing to use a Chartered Accountant, you are choosing a financial professional that has gone beyond the basic accounting qualification. Chartered Accountants are specially trained to help you look at the bigger picture for your business, not just your routine finance tasks.

This ensures you have a trusted voice in decision making. To find a chartered accountant in your area, visit: www.charteredaccountantsanz.com/find-a-ca CT

When you good business advice, it can be hard to know who to turn to, says Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) president and Christchurch resident, Murray Harrington FCA.

Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand president Murray Harrington.

CA ANZ Canterbury Local Chair, Luiza Veras.

The Timaru district is centrally located on the East Coast of the South Island, only a short two-hour drive from Christchurch. In Timaru, you can escape from the crowds of a city and explore open spaces and unique urban areas.

Venture Tourism Timaru says, “Autumn in the Timaru District is beautiful. The light changes, the air cools down and it’s the ideal time for some big adventures.

“Locals love getting out and exploring the wide range of walking and cycling tracks, or walking their dogs on the beach. They also enjoy sampling delicious food at our great restaurants, bars and cafes, and generally enjoying the relaxed and laid-back pace.”

The district has faced population growth meaning infrastructure development, including hospitality establishments, are fast becoming sought-after.

“Within Timaru city you will find top dining establishments such as Saikou, Street Food

Kitchen, The Oxford, Cactus Fire and more. There’s no better way to finish off an evening than with a cocktail from Hector Black’s Speights Ale bar or Bullock Bar,” Venture Timaru says.

Living

Housing prices are one of the major draw cards for population growth in the region. Venture Development Timaru says, “The Timaru residential market offers a variety of properties for all tastes and budgets.

“The average house value for the Timaru District in the year to December 2022 was $518,437." (Source: Informetric Quarterly Economic Report).

The affordable housing market combined with a ‘cheaper’ lifestyle including amenities, services and schooling readily available in the region, means a better work-life balance for citizens.

The town centre is only a short sevenminute drive away from the majority of suburbs, this making it is a convenient location for people commuting to work every day. The region also prides itself on having low crime and unemployment rates.

Tourism

If you are an outdoor adventure enthusiast, there are many great walks for you to explore and see more of the South Island whilst visiting or living in Timaru and its surrounding regions.

Some of the most popular walks include the series of Timaru Tracks, Temuka Tracks, Geraldine Tracks, Peel Forest Tracks, as well as established cycle tracks to explore the beauty of the outdoors.

“Timaru District is the ideal location for a holiday, and the perfect base to take in the jaw-dropping landscapes of New Zealand’s central South Island.

“Made up of rural farmland, rugged coast and sandy beaches, the city of Timaru, and our town Geraldine, Pleasant Point and Temuka.”

Taking a step back to enjoy one of the district’s museums is the perfect activity for a colder winter day. There are also many retail shops to explore and art galleries to visit while in town.

The district’s central location also means easy access to New Zealand’s major cities including daily flights to Wellington.

Venture Tourism Timaru says the region is committed to sustainable tourism, and they are fortunate to have so many people

committed to exploring more sustainable ways of living and ‘doing life’.

Timaru is enjoying an on-going trial of an innovative on-demand public transport service, and it’s worth giving it a go. MyWay by Metro is simple to book - you can choose where you need to go and when to be picked up. It is public transport based around your own personal needs.

In conclusion

As more people and families continue to relocate to the region, the infrastructure, housing, retail services and community will continue to grow.

Timaru is renowned for its great sense of community where neighbours and friends are always willing to help each other. Timaru is a wonderful place to raise a family, while

having a well-established town centre and also being able to take a breath of fresh air in the surrounding farming areas.

There is much to explore in the township, so make sure to make Timaru your next destination place!

To find out more about Venture Tourism or Development Timaru, make sure to visit their website at: www.vvtourism.co.nz. CT

Providing crucial support for our primary industries

Groundspread NZ represents 112 groundspreading companies and approximately 450 ground-based nutrient applicator units around the country.

Groundspread NZ members have always been passionate about the environment and a 2022 membership survey highlighted that 95 percent of its members make choices every day to reduce their business's impact on it.

Groundspread NZ members are continually seeking for and taking steps to improve environmental outcomes in their on-farm practices.

They play an important role in New Zealand’s paddock-to-plate journey and are constantly seeking solutions for improving what they do and the impact that it has on the environment.

The association for groundspreaders – Groundspread NZ – has been supporting primary industry as a collective in New Zealand since 1956, applying nutrients to New Zealand soils and playing their part in the nation’s paddock to plate journey.

Mid-Canterbury | Groundspread NZ

They ensure that their gear is tested (only applying nutrients exactly where they need to go), they have a highly-skilled workforce (and are constantly upskilling), and they are early adopters of technology who are never afraid of new science and knowledge that shows them how they can do their job better. They jump on board, they question it, they get involved in making it more applicable in practice, and then they roll it out around the country.

A recent research paper stated that food security relies on nitrogen fertilisers, but its production and use account for approximately five percent of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Meeting climate change targets requires the identification and prioritisation of interventions across the whole life cycle of fertilisers.

The paper mapped the global flows of synthetic nitrogen fertilisers and manure and their corresponding GHG emissions across their life cycle and then explored the maximum mitigation potential of various interventions to reduce emissions by 2050.

What it found was that approximately twothirds of fertiliser emissions take place after their deployment in croplands. Therefore, increasing nitrogen-use efficiency is the single most effective strategy to reduce emissions.

Coupled with a decarbonisation of fertiliser production and using currently available technologies, GHG emissions of fertilisers could be reduced up to approximately one-fifth of current levels by 2050.

One of the simplest ways that a farmer can support this strategy is to use a Spreadmarkaccredited company to apply their fertiliser.

The Spreadmark scheme is a fertiliser placement quality assurance programme that ensures the placement of fertilisers in locations where they can be of the most agricultural benefit and the least environmental harm. The scheme will only register spreading companies provided they have certified spreading machinery, trained operators, and an appropriate quality management system.

This ensures that farmer/grower outcomes are met and environmental sustainability is protected.

Coupled with a decarbonisation of fertiliser production and using currently available technologies, GHG emissions of fertilisers could be reduced up to approximately one-fifth of current levels by 2050.

Overall systems are then subject to an independent audit to ensure that both farmers/ growers and regional councils can have confidence in the programme.

The membership is continually seeking solutions to support them taking care of the environment with a focus on “right product, right place, right time” to improve accuracy of fertiliser placement.

Currently, they are involved in a Lincoln Agritech project aimed at improving outcomes of blended fertilisers after noticing an increase of blends being recommended to their clients.

They had noticed that a blend which may be exactly what the soil needs (and therefore

seems perfect on paper), was not always able to be spread as intended.

Blended products often include fertilisers that are different shapes and sizes and will therefore not come out the back of a unit in equal measure and distance.

Trucks are calibrated to spread each product to a specific bout width within the limitations of their Spreadmark certification for that specific truck.

Therefore, when mixing two (or often more) products together, there is an increased potential for unevenness of the spread.

Hence, some parts of a paddock may be missing some of the essential nutrients

required (reduced agronomical benefits), and other parts of a paddock may be receiving more of one of the components than necessary (increased environmental harm).

There has been little research into the impact of blended fertilisers, so members were keen to participate in this research and discover the reality of this perceived unevenness. Another area of research they are currently involved in is assessing the quality of fertiliser throughout the supply chain.

Currently, fertiliser is quality tested at port when it arrives in New Zealand, but there are no further checks in the supply chain as it moves throughout the country and moving

some products has the potential for degradation of fertiliser.

Additionally, Groundspread NZ recently invested in the commission of a Kellogg Rural Leadership research paper, which aimed to better understand the impacts of imposed change faced by the rural sector, and how the groundspread industry can support the New Zealand food and fibre sector to meet the regulatory demands they continue to face. Initially, the research searched for specific improvements/changes that the groundspread industry could implement to help farmers meet increasing compliance in their businesses.

Driver training - an important step in Spreadmark Accreditation Are your drivers Spreadmark certified?

Training of operators is an important part of the Spreadmark scheme. Phil and the rest of the team at Candrive developed the Spreader Operator NZ course which is approved by New Zealand Groundspread & Fertiliser Association (NZGFA) and is one of the requirements of the Spreadmark accreditation for companies.

The Spreader Operator NZ course ensures drivers are appropriately trained to meet the company’s requirements for Spreadmark and consists of 2 parts; A theory training day covering a variety of subjects followed by practical assessments that are completed on job. On successful completion Spreadmark driver certification is awarded. Courses are run during the quieter months or on demand by companies.

In 2020 Candrive won the NZGFA Health & Safety award for the design and implementation of this training course. Followed in 2021 with Candrive coming 3rd in the North Canterbury Business Awards – BDO professional Services Award for their outstanding business practices and customer service.

Candrive’s core business is the provision of courses for truck licences and special type vehicles. Specialising in customising courses for their clients unique working environments.

Candrive has expanded their services to include motorcycle training and licencing and 4WD safety training. These courses familiarise drivers with their vehicles and new technology so they can safely utilise the full potential of the vehicles they drive.

Their highly qualified training specialists Scott, Phil and Stu are extremely passionate, motivated experienced in passing on their skills, knowledge and experience. With a fresh and up to date approach to your training using modern technology, small class sizes, focusing on the ‘should knows’, the ‘need to knows’ and the ‘nice to knows’.

Candrive’s training coordinators Diane & Haley, both excel in customer service. If you prefer a personal approach, they are your first point of contact, by email or phone, they enjoy being able to speak to you, to help with your specific enquiry. They can provide you with advice and training solutions that will work for you, with clear, concise, explanations.

If you are looking to upskill or change careers or are a company looking to implement fleet training, contact the team at Candrive now.

MAINLAND SPREADING

Mainland Spreading is a specialised nutrient applicator operation

We are a family built business run by the Schultz family since 1999. Our core focus is adding value to our customers assets. Our key objective is to safely apply nutrients with optimal timing, accuracy and environmental care. We pride ourselves on

being involved and supporting our local communities. We have a fleet of modern groundspreaders including a specialised cropping truck and a liquid truck, both part of our North Otago fleet. We are proud and active members of Groundspread NZ and our company is Spreadmark accredited.

However, it emphasised that there was already much that the groundspread industry is doing well, but that nobody knew about it, and that left the food and fibre sector more vulnerable to critique on fertiliser use than it needed to be.

Subsequently, Groundspread NZ are working through the recommendations of that report to support the food and fibre sector by more actively sharing their part in New Zealand’s paddock-to-plate journey.

•They are working with in-truck technology companies on continually educating groundspread operators, and their clients, about advancements of their products

•They have started hosting Spreadmark promotional days to showcase the quality assurance scheme

• They are seeking opportunities to promote themselves and the efficient service that they provide their rural clients

•They are continuing to nurture relationships with developers of new technology to help ensure that the technology developed will meet the needs of both groundspreaders and the rural community that they serve

• They are working towards establishing relationships with central and local government policymakers to increase awareness of the precision work undertaken by the groundspread industry on behalf of their rural clients

• They are inviting local fertiliser representatives to see how products spread to ensure that the recommendations they are making to farmers align with the spreadability of these products.

Groundspread NZ strives to be a trusted partner of the rural community and its members thrive when the rural community is thriving.

Members know the importance of supporting the rural community and invest much of their own time into projects that will ensure best outcomes for their clients.

Much like their rural clients, they see this as business as usual and nothing special. However, this research provided so many examples of things that the groundspread industry are doing well, but they need to stop being one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets and start supporting the sector by sharing their story because what they think is ordinary is extraordinary.

Today they went out and helped grow food, and our economy, and they did it sustainably with high-tech gear, a highly skilled workforce and with passion and care.

There is no doubt that the proper placement of fertiliser is of considerable agronomic benefit to farmers and growers and using a Groundspread NZ Spreadmark-accredited applicator will help protect the environment from the undesirable side effects of poor fertiliser spreading practices.

A list of accredited operators can be found on the Groundspread NZ website: www.groundspreadnz.com. CT

Strategic leadership development for Food and Fibre now.

The Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme develops Food and Fibre leaders with the skills, confidence, awareness and networks to think and act strategically.

The Programme is for farmers, foresters, fishers, growers and agribusiness professionals who have a desire to contribute to their rural community, Food and Fibre production, processing or profession.

Programme One, Lincoln, 23 January start.

Applications close 12 November 2023.

Programme Two, Lincoln, 11 June start.

Applications close 14 April 2024.

To find out more or to apply visit ruralleaders.co.nz/kellogg

Allen Custom Drills is proudly family owned and operated and has been for over 20 years. Our company pride is wrapped around designing and manufacturing high quality, top performing Air Seeder Drills, available to the hands of honourable farmers and contractors all over. An Allen Custom Drill is innovative, practical, reliable, and economical. We are a company and product that continue to be the leaders in the market of Air Seeder Drills.

Based in Ashburton, New Zealand, our drills began their journey of existence in NZ soil. A country of many terrains, with challenges in harsh, dry, solid, rocky ground, through to wet, sticky, flat, undulating ground. Australia and its vast conditions then bought unseen elements and land conditions to the Allen Custom Drills. No season is the same and the challenges that many Allen Custom Drills have faced over the years, have proven to accomplish in any test and produce reward for all clients and their businesses. Whether running with our old, or new technology and concepts, our drills are operating in many different ground conditions, planting many types of seed, delivering great success over and over, growing other businesses and their own developments.

We are incredibly passionate and proud of what we do here. Thriving off the relationships we develop with our clients, employees, suppliers, and anyone we cross paths within this wonderful industry of Agriculture and Manufacturing. We have authorised dealerships selling our drills across New Zealand and Australia, all sharing the same passion, drive and service to customers.

Each drill available is designed and built to be simple to use, strong and reliable for hectares on end, provide accurate results, and of course be economical to maintain. Experience and knowledge are key, and this doesn’t just come from within our company. The Allen Custom Drills community is made up of people out in the field using our product sharing their stories, successes, and feedback with us. We collaborate with the end user, enabling us to introduce new ideas into our product and with the ability to customise all our base models, we can build a product to suit the individual needs and demands of each customer.

We are leading the way for Air Seeder Drills, proud to be supporting and supplying to farmers and contractors within New Zealand and Australia.

Housing stocks returning to normal levels

Century 21 New Zealand owner Tim Kearins says the pressures on rental stock have only grown this year, not helped by the Auckland floods and Cyclone Gabrielle.

However, one ray of sunshine is the opportunity to successfully purchase a property.

REINZ’s latest nationwide real estate numbers showed the overall number of houses available for sale has returned to more normal levels, with sales transactions lifting in February.

Sadly, rents continue to head north. MBIE’s Tenancy Services Rental Bond Data released in March showed that median rents nationwide are up $175 per week since 2017 – reaching $575.

“Not only have thousands of Kiwis had their houses yellowed or red stickered, over 20,000 are on the public housing waiting list, and thousands remain in emergency housing including motels.

“This adds incredible pressure on rental property availability, and hence rents won’t be easing any time soon,” Tim says.

“This winter will be a good time to first-home buyers to purchase, if they can stump up a deposit and secure adequate finance.

“As well as finding a good mortgage broker, now’s the time to check out the government support schemes for many first-home buyers, as well as consider a flatmate or border to help with debt serviceability,” he says.

The Century 21 leader says while the Reserve Bank’s decisions impact debt affordability, the government can change things to help tenants – such as bringing back tax deductibility on interest costs.

Once 100 percent of interest could be claimed as an expense by residential landlords, but that is now being incrementally phased out. Currently at 75 percent, that moved to 50 percent on April 1, to 25 percent April 1, 2024, and to zero on April 1, 2025.

“It’s a tough time for tenants, and for vendors it’s taking longer to sell properties. However, this environment also throws up opportunities for those considering a residential investment property, as well more choice for those looking to buy their first or next home,” Tim says.

He says tenants sick of paying sky-high rents should do their sums on a mortgage calculator and then visit a broker to see what’s possible. They might be surprised.

“It might take some help from ‘The bank of mum and dad’ to cobble together a deposit, and you may have to rent out your spare bedroom to satisfy your banker or broker.

“Nonetheless, homeownership has proven time and time again, a great way for Kiwis to improve their standard of living and retire more comfortably.

“Now’s the best time in recent years for many to secure their future,” he says. CT

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and its impact on safety

Video technology can support a fleet safety programme in a variety of ways, from identifying fatigued or distracted drivers and reducing the risk of incidents, through to providing evidence for investigations and insurance claims in the event of a crash.

This technology is continually evolving and can assist fleet managers to mitigate road risk.

Brake NZ director, Caroline Perry says, “Driving for work is a significant health and safety risk to organisations, so it’s essential that you have relevant policies and procedures in place to address risk.

“Technology, including video technology, is evolving rapidly, and there are an increasing number of systems available that aim to improve vehicle and driver safety.

Our

Collision Repair

“Knowing what the latest developments are and what to consider when implementing technology can help fleets to ensure they get the most from these systems, helping them to reduce their road risk.”

MiX Telematics Middle East and Australasia managing director, Brodie Von Berg says, “With the increased adoption of AI solutions, fleet operators are demanding evolving technology to provide real-time visibility and control over their fleets and drivers.

“Monitoring driver behaviour with video telematics increases safety, which leads to fewer incidents and fewer claims.”

Staying safe on our roads

We all know that stress can affect our decision-making process. Heightened emotions such as stress, anger or upset are a form of cognitive distraction, which can significantly impede drivers’ ability to spot and respond to hazards.

Any number of stressors can affect our driving on a normal day, but during this unprecedented time of a pandemic, in addition to navigating our way through school holiday traffic, our stress levels can go through the roof.

Switching off the mind-clutter can be particularly difficult when we’re behind the wheel making that rare and quick trip for essential supplies, getting to and from work, or helping someone more vulnerable. In these moments, we may find more anxiety and stress creeping into our driving.

You also have to be careful when experiencing a lot less traffic than you’re used to. Traffic often provides drivers with cues to moderate speed and take notice of traffic signals.

Without the traffic in place, we may find ourselves switching to auto pilot and letting the clutter in our minds take over. Worse still, some drivers see the open road as an invitation to speed.

Tips for staying safe on our roads:

Distance between your car and the car in front

Always keep a minimum three seconds gap between you and the car in front. When it’s raining and/or foggy double the distance to six seconds no matter what speed you’re doing.

Indicate early

Always indicate when changing lanes, 30-metres wherever practical, to advise other motorists of what you are doing.

Eyes ahead

Drive with your line of sight parallel to the road not looking down onto it. By doing this you see further into the distance, so you can be better prepared if there is a problem ahead. It may even mean you can avoid a crash.

Overtaking

Ensure you have enough room to go past the vehicle you are overtaking and not cut them off. Pick you time carefully as overtaking can be quite dangerous and making the wrong decision may result in a serious crash.

Driving at night

Driving at night requires more skill and concentration than at daytime due to your restricted vision. Oncoming headlights can obscure your vision and pedestrians can be near impossible to see. Leave a bigger gap between you and the car in front to allow for your reduced vision and reaction time.

Road rage

Stay relaxed and try not to let other people’s driving skills or decisions worry you. If another driver makes a mistake don’t get angryjust concentrate on your own driving skills, behaviour and safety.

Remember that travelling during holiday periods can be more-risky because of increased traffic volumes, congestion, tiredness, there are higher numbers of people driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and people may be driving in unfamiliar environments.

Being courteous and flexible, remembering to share the road with others, allowing increased time for the journey, and scheduling frequent breaks can help drivers to stay safe during these high-pressure periods. CT

An economic injection and contribution to the local economy

Rudy Kinajil is a softspoken businessman with a great story.

He’s an immigrant who grew up in a remote village in Borneo, Malaysia. Rudy and his family moved to New Zealand during the 1980s in search of a better life.

Looking ahead to the present day, Rudy is trying to give back to Christchurch by building a hospitality destination in popular suburb Riccarton.

The establishment at 87 Riccarton Road was previously known to many locals as the home of Georgie Pie family restaurant.

The business first opened in 1992 and was among the first establishments of its kind to boast a drive-through.

However, not long afterwards fast-food chain McDonalds bought the lease from the property owners, promptly closing Georgie Pie restaurant to remove competition.

In 1993, Simes Limited, a local real estate business, sold the property with a McDonalds lease to the Kinajil family.

The transaction was completed through White Fox and Jones, another well-known respected law firm.

The New Zealand Blood Services then leased the 3,364m2 property from McDonalds and continued to operate their South Island blood donation service centre there for over 20 years, until they moved to their own purpose-built premises in 2014.

This rent helped the Kinajil family to settle into life in Christchurch and paid for their three daughters to be educated at St Margaret’s College.

Project construction started in 2017 with financing from ASB bank. Wilson and Hill Architects designed the hospitality, retail and office buildings.

Hanham and Philp Contractors did the construction.

The project was completed in December 2019, having gone through the worst of the major post-earthquake road upgrade of Riccarton Road, which decimated many small businesses during that time.

After the disruptions from the Riccarton Road upgrades, “We [then] ran ‘smack’ into Covid-19 and the unprecedented nationwide lockdown in March 2020”.

The next two years, 2020 and 2021, were challenging but Robbie`s Sports Bar, Mexicali Fresh and Little Spicy Chinese restaurant persevered. Now Robbie`s Riccarton is the most popular sports bar this side of the city. With nearly 2 dozen TV screens, they are

usually packed full on weekends and for major sports events and Super Rugby games, a really booming dining and entertainment destination.

Little Spicy has also now established loyal customers following and the food is delicious.

“Closed borders did nothing to help hospitality businesses and the economic fallout, which followed and ramping interest rate is hitting business confidence hard.”

But things may be turning around. Lonestar Riccarton is moving into the building on a long-term lease. They have moved into their large offices on the first floor and are now settling down in their new home and busy fitting out their new 492m2 restaurant, which they expect to open in May of this year.

Further along next to Lonestar on the ground floor of GP Mainland’s East building is another 325m2 hospitality space, which is the last remaining hospitality space still available to lease.

This space will suit another established brand restaurant. Or can be designed into a multi-kitchen setup ready for Uber Eats style delivered meals market, including a convenient delivery vehicle bay right at the front door. Together with Robbie’s Sports Bar, Lone Star Family Restaurant and Little Spicy Chinese restaurant will enhance the future of this place as a hospitality destination within minutes’ walk to the Westfield shopping centre.

There is also a 269m2 brand new office space imminently suitable for a national-size accounting or law firm on the first floor on Riccarton Road.

“This is a must see to realise how quiet and sound-proofed the place really is.”

The building is designed for long-term and stable hospitality tenants with built-in features like the in-ground centralised greasy waste extraction which are heat-traced so they won’t freeze in winter.

There is also the centralised kitchen fume extraction system which vents out kitchen fumes and reticulated gas piped to each individual kitchen so you only need to sign a supply agreement with the supplier for your own dedicated gas supply. Centralised airconditioning, HVAC and make-up air is also part of the building features supplied.

Rudy is an inspiration to many, showing us, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. He has given back to the Christchurch community with this fresh new food destination and office spaces, which will continue to bring vibrancy back into the heart of our city.

If you want to get in touch with Rudy to find out more about leasing his office or hospitality space, give him a call on 021 689 622 or email him on: rtkinajil@gmail.com.

44 on-site car parks

Lonestar Opening Soon

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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. 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.

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.

Mistake 3 - Assuming the hiring process ends once they’re hired

This is a common mistake many small business owners make.

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.

Helping drive an economic community

They champion the interests of southern business and ensure that locals voices are represented locally, regionally and nationally. The organisation provides access to legal advice, funding and grants, mentorships and workforce development, all in the name of assisting economic growth in Otago.

They deliver high-quality, relevant professional development tailored to individual business needs as well as engaging regularly with decision-makers to represent the interests of business in the south.

Business South Inc facilitates meaningly social and business connections and promotes southern business success be enabling events.

They’re also working hard to foster sustainability by modelling environmentally, commercially and socially sustainable businesses. Business South Inc helps a huge range of business from small to large.

Any business size, from zero to ten employees, 11 to 50 or more than 51, Business South Inc is committed to ensuring they have the tools and support they need to succeed.

They can also assist individuals in business, so if you run your own company by yourself, they can help with a wide range of issues from learning to advocacy.

To help increase economic growth in the region, Business South Inc platforms people and businesses such as Callaghan Innovation who can help with new to research and development grants.

Individuals such as the owner of Tiaki Bees has benefited greatly from assistance from Business South Inc.

Now, he’s got a full beekeeping business and it was possible by working with his

growth advisor where he accessed the Management Capability Fund to get some market strategy training.

Business South Inc has a wide net – stretching from the Waitaki River to Stewart Island.

It has over 1,600 members spanning a vast range of industries and sectors. From manufacturing and construction to retail and arts, Business South Inc is proud to offer support and encouragement in any way they can.

In May this year, Business South Inc is hosting the 2023 Health, Safety and Environment Forum where businesses can gain valuable insights into current issues relating to health, safety and environment management.

They’ll also be able to discuss various strategies for improving sustainable outcomes.

Later in the year, in November, the Grand Business South Awards 2023 will be held.

The awards have been a highlight of the Southern regions business calendar for over 25 years and, due to the unprecedented success of last year’s awards, they’re already taking registrations of interest to accommodate table bookings for everyone!

So, for all your southern business needs, support and education, look no further than Business South Inc. They’re there to make sure your business is succeeding in every way it can. For more information, visit their website www.business-south.org.nz

History

Everything began in 1861 when the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce was formed during the Otago gold rush.

In fact, the region is going through that “gold rush” phase again with significant development and infrastructure projects including a 1.5-billion-dollar hospital build. This is attracting businesses and families to the region, both domestically and internationally.

In 1890, the Otago Employers Association was formed in response to New Zealand’s

first major industrial dispute, which involved maritime workers going on strike in support of their Australian counterparts who wanted to form unions.

Then, in 1965, the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce changed its name to Otago Chamber of Commerce. 1971 saw the Southland Employers Association amalgamate with the Otago Employers Association to form the Otago Southland Employers Association, foreshadowing future amalgamations.

In 1993, the Otago Chamber of Commerce amalgamated with the Otago Southland Manufacturing Association and the Export Institute of Otago.

During other business events in 2001, Otago Southland Employers Association became a founder member of the Business NZ network. Between 2006 and 2020, conversations around merging Otago Chamber of Commerce and Otago Southland Employers Association happened.

In 2017, these plans were abandoned but picked up again in 2020. By 2021, the two had merged and in October of 2021, Business South Inc arrived, superseding the Otago Chamber of Commerce and Otago Southland Employers Association. CT

Business South Inc

Level 3 Public Trust Building

442 Moray Place, Dunedin (03) 379 0181

info@business-south.org.nz

www.business-south.org.nz

— Advertising Feature

Since 1881, Business South Inc has been providing business support, advocacy and expertise to help southern organisations succeed.

Mike Collins CEO, Business South Strategy Launch – June 2022.

Grand Business Awards November 2022 – Winners Oritain.

Grand Business Awards November 2022 – The Grand Supreme Business Excellence Winner – Oritain. Mike Collins CEO, Business South Strategy Launch

Lincoln Uni leads the nation in graduate employment

As a world class research and learning institution specialising in land, food, fibre, and agriculture, Lincoln gives students the expertise to make meaningful contributions to society in a wide range of fields, providing direct pathways to high demand careers.

Subject areas all have a strong focus on working with the land to enhance lives and fostering sustainability is key, ensuring that the land-based sectors are able to thrive for many years to come.

Students gain hands-on experience in the field, tackling real-world issues from day one. They also gain invaluable connections through Lincoln’s strong partnerships with industry, often leading them to secure jobs before completing their qualifications.

Graduates are sought-after all over the world, as they lead the charge to create a more sustainable, equitable future for all.

Major topics that Lincoln students, academics and alumni have been involved with recently include helping dairy farmers to produce healthier milk, exploring the critical climate choices faced by orchardists and helping the agricultural industry to navigate unprecedented change.

Creating healthier food products

Livestock Production Professor Pablo Gregorini and research students from Lincoln University’s Pastoral Livestock Production Lab have led a project that involved assessing

milk from cows on a diet of either plantain or ryegrass. Some were also genetically predisposed to produce less nitrogen.

The findings are groundbreaking, as they provide insight into how choosing the right forage for cows, especially those with low nitrogen breeding values, can have major benefits, not only for the animals but for the environment and humans too.

Milk produced by plantain-fed, low N cows is high in healthy fatty acids and can help reduce stress, inflammation and cancer growth while decreasing environmental pollution, which could lead to more sustainable production and improved public health.

Current research by the Pastoral Livestock Production Lab is evaluating how beef, lamb, venison and milk from different pastures and grazing managements can potentially produce healthier foods. Human trials are in progress.

Considering climate choices

Lincoln University Professor of Applied Economics, Anita Wreford, who specialises in climate, wrote a recent article for The Conversation about how climate adaptation could make the horticultural industry more resilient in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle.

Professor Wreford says it’s clear the long-term impacts of the weather event will be severe, with recent media coverage suggesting the horticultural industry could take 50 to 100 years to fully recover.

“But during that time, we know there will be more extreme weather events. Beyond the immediate clean-up, some fruit growers in Hawke’s Bay may need to consider whether this is a window for changing the type of crop or system,” she says.

“Given the significant investment and long life of trees, there is a more strategic question to be asked about replanting the same crops in the same areas.

“Hawke’s Bay growers may need to reconsider the types of crops planted and where or how they are grown. They could also think about using stop banks to allow for land development in flood-prone areas.

Helping to grow industries

Lincoln’s industry partnerships are fantastic for graduates, with former Bachelor of Agricultural Science student Abbey Dowd joining Perrin Ag in 2023 as part of its Empower graduate advisor programme.

The role offers practical experience across a range of sectors in the primary industries,

as well as mentoring alongside the firm’s experienced team.

“Seeing how our local farmers supported our community when I was growing up is what inspired me to study a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Lincoln,” Abbey says. “I wanted to help give back to the industry and play my part in helping our primary sector continue to produce quality food in a sustainable way.”

Perrin Ag Managing Director Lee Matheson says Abbey is the latest in a growing roll of the very best Lincoln Bachelor of Agricultural Science graduates to join the Perrin Ag team. “Farming and agriculture are more about the future than ever. Who better to work with farmers and growers than the future of our profession – talented and passionate young women like Abbey.”

Visit www.lincoln.ac.nz to find out more about Lincoln University’s research projects and range of study options in agriculture, horticulture, science, the environment, and more.

Te Whare Wanaka o Aoraki Lincoln University’s landbased subjects are centred around the country’s largest export sectors and its graduate employment rate is the highest of any university in the country.

Seeing how our local farmers supported our community when I was growing up is what inspired me to study a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Lincoln, I wanted to help give back to the industry and play my part in helping our primary sector continue to produce quality food in a sustainable way.”

- Bachelor of Agricultural Science student Abbey Dowd

Fuelling growth throughout the economy

North Otago Irrigation Company (NOIC) is a community-based irrigation scheme created to provide irrigation and stock water to farms in the North Otago Downlands area since 2004.

The company is owned by its farmershareholders and run as a co-operative. It operates a large-scale, complex network of pipes and pumps to distribute water to 20,000 hectares of productive farmland at pressure.

NOIC’s mission is to enable its farmers to maximise the potential from their land, while supporting positive environmental outcomes.

Overview of goals:

• Provide affordable, reliable water

• Support farmers to achieve good environmental results

• Enable beneficial social and economic outcomes for the region.

North Otago Irrigation Company (NOIC) chief executive, Andrew Rodwell, describes the schemes infrastructure as modern, complex and vast:

NOIC’s operations manager Colin Perkins at Pump Station 1 located at Black Point.

“It utilises eight primary motor pumps that collectively use 22 megawatts of power, about the same amount of power as Tekapo A Power Station can generate. We move up to 8,000 litres per second through about 220 kilometres of pipeline to 170 farms,” he says.

NOIC is a fully pumped, pressurized and piped scheme – all the water is contained.

Water is delivered to the farm at pressure. Farms can simply “turn the tap” on there’s little to no further pumping required.

“The farms are collectively valued at not much short of a billion dollars and our scheme is valued at 160 million. You can see the scale of investment there has been in the region.”

The scheme was purpose-built to enable farming on land and previously had been difficult to farm reliably.

“The benefit I guess for shareholders has been that they can now safely predict production from their farms, since droughts are no longer a factor. This has improved incomes and farm property values.”

There are beneficial consequences for the wider community, as well – with the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research calculating an, “Additional $80 million extra circulating in the local economy as a result of irrigated farming”.

Irrigation increases farm productivity, leading to more primary and secondary manufacturing and processing in the area, increased incomes, employment opportunities, stable school roles, and opportunities for families who are not seeing their young ones leave the district after they’ve left school.

•

We

•

NOIC’s environmental advisor Anita Walton water sampling.

Centre pivot.

Sunflowers under the pivot.

“All of these social impacts result in a community that’s more resilient and more vibrant,” Andrew says.

“Reliability for us is the thing which differentiates the North Otago Irrigation Company, the water source - the Waitaki River - is one of the largest by volume in New Zealand.

“The presence of five hydro dams ensures water is stored and released at a rate that guarantees availability of water for irrigation, for recreational use, and for mahinga kai.”

Reliability and longevity is accomplished through their business model.

The team takes a 100-year view and maintain and manage the scheme to ensure the assets are up to standard all the time, he says.

“We don’t underestimate the privilege of being able to take water that belongs to all New Zealanders, and use that precious resource in the production of food.

“We are a closed system, there’s no opportunity for water loss.

“We only use what we require. Environmental management is a critical area for us. We require all farms to have audited farm environment plans.

“This is something we’ve been doing for 15 years - FEP’s provide us a means of controlling and managing risks on farms. We proactively support farmers to achieve good management practice.

“We run the show pretty lean for the size and scale of the business - we don’t have huge

numbers of people but we have people who are specialists in engineering, hydraulics, commercial, operations, and of course the environmental space.”

NOIC provides lots of professional and personal development opportunities. Not only for their benefit but it also leads to positive job fulfilment, he says.

“We also give back to the community by funding environmental groups and projects and through a university scholarship for local students.”

NOIC now manages three of their neighbouring irrigation schemes, with a footprint of around 50,000 hectares. This kind of scale provides significant benefits for the schemes and their shareholders.

Some memorable accomplishments the company has achieved include:

1990

The company began to look into options for delivering irrigation water to the North Otago Downlands area

2003

Resource consents were secured, allowing the company to take water from the Waitaki River and distribute it to the Downlands area

2012

The company was an awardee of the Irrigation New Zealand Innovation Award for their comprehensive Audited Environmental Self-Management System

2022/23

The company was appointed Scheme Manager of the Maerewhenua, KurowDuntroon and Lower Waitaki Schemes.

In terms of what the future holds, the company is conscious of the regulatory pressures on farmers and is focused on keeping costs manageable.

It has a small number of shares still available that it anticipates will be issued within the next two years. Once those shares sell, the scheme infrastructure will be fully used and the dream that was envisioned when the company first conceived of irrigating the Downlands back in the 1990s will be achieved. CT

Photos kindly supplied by the NOIC.

437 office@noic.co.nz

www.noic.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Waitaki River intake.

Cattle handling solutions

By Michaela Pointon

exceptional customer service by getting onfarm and training our customers, helping them maximise the benefits of their equipment.”

The future of Te Pari looks like a constantly developing and unfolding project. Corban says he is unsure of where the business may lead in the future however, they continue to be focused on continuous innovation.

Te Pari has stress-free cattle handling solutions for your farm to ensure everyday work is made easier.

Te Pari are renowned for their ability to design outstanding products, which have built them a lasting legacy in the farming industry. Te Pari is a family owned and operated business located in Oamaru.

The company specialises in world-leading integrated livestock handling solutions including handling systems for cattle and sheep.

Third generation worker at Te Pari and marketing manager, Corban Blampied says, “At Te Pari, we put a huge amount of effort into creating quality products which are made here in New Zealand”.

He says it can be challenging to stay competitive in a market saturated by overseas imported products.

“We have put a lot of resources into automated machinery in our factory. This includes worldleading machinery such as multiple robot welders, CNC lathes and laser cutters.”

Corban says Te Pari’s investment into the development of modern equipment in Aotearoa requires a huge commitment from the team. This investment also shows the business' commitment to the long-term vision of the farming industry.

Through the recent technological developments at Te Pari, it is clear they have made great progress for farmers and the industry.

Specifically, their Taurus Auto Sorter and Racewell Sheep Handler are amongst their equipment machinery, which take an innovative approach to modern farming.

Corban says the company has placed themselves as world leaders in the livestock handling space.

“At Te Pari, we supply a fully integrated solution. This includes the handling equipment, EID reader, weighing equipment and the calibrated dosing equipment.

“As we deal with the end user (farmer), we are then able to back our products with our

“We want our products to continue to offer what we have our reputation for. Our research and development teams are currently working on some large projects and we are looking to release these in the later part of 2023.”

Farmers have an exciting end to the year looking ahead for the development of new product line from Te Pari.

Corban says some general advice for any farmers or livestock handlers is to purchase this equipment once. “For anyone researching livestock handling equipment, we urge you to buy once and buy right.

“As the leading supplier of Livestock Handling Equipment, we have [directly] seen and heard from many customers who have purchased alternative brands as the prices were cheaper, only to have these products fail on them.”

He says investing in handling equipment should be a one-time experience for farmers throughout their careers.

“Remember to do your research, speak to other farmers and most importantly, buy once and buy right!”

Te Pari has many resources available to their customers or farmers who want to find out more about how to use their equipment. These include an ‘Owners Hub’ with detailed tutorial videos and instruction manuals. Te Pari also has an app for farmers, which is an easy way to be working on the field and get instant answers.

To find out more about Te Pari and the products they offer, make sure to visit their website at www.tepari.com/nz

Alternatively, give them a call on 0800 837 274, where the team will be happy to give you more information and guide you in the right direction. CT

Te Pari

9 Endeavour Crescent

North Oamaru Business Park Oamaru 9494 0800 837 274

support@tepari.com www.tepari.com/nz

— Advertising Feature

Te Pari is a cattle yards and sheep handling equipment product provider. Their livestock equipment is designed for safety and efficiency to take the handling out of sheep work.

Photo supplied by Te Pari.

Flexible Learning Options at SIT

was a lot easier than adding to my student loan,” she said.

Becky’s year of study consisted of three, week-long, teaching blocks at SIT, Invercargill at Massage Therapy clinical practice in her own community.

Becky says her year studying through SIT has prepared her for her future plans.

Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) –Business Division of Te Pukenga continues to create solutions to make study possible by providing multiple delivery options.

On Campus: SIT campuses provide supportive learning environments for inperson delivery. The main campus is in Invercargill, with smaller campuses located in Queenstown, Christchurch, Gore, Auckland, and Balclutha (Telford).

Blended Delivery: a mix of online and face-to-face modes of study, where practical components of qualifications are carried out on campus through various formats, e.g. block courses, weekend workshops, or once-a-week evening class. It offers the best of both modes, with flexible online study alongside completing practical study components in person.

Wellingtonian Becky Littlewood achieved a Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage by utilising SIT’s blended delivery option for her third and final year.

“When distance learning was offered for Level 7 at SIT, I jumped at the chance!

Working to pay for flights and accommodation

“I’m looking to develop new branches to my massage practice, and being able to explore these ideas through the work I completed at SIT has really helped.”

HyFlex Distance Learning

HyFlex Delivery is an exciting development in response to changes in the way people live, work, and learn. There are two options to choose from in HyFlex distance delivery: distance, in your own time (asynchronous) or remote, real-time (synchronous).

Charlene Stewart is in her second semester of studying for a diploma in animation using HyFlex asynchronous mode, which suits her perfectly.

“It’s tricky to achieve study as an adult learner, when there are responsibilities to balance, you’re not in a position to leave your full-time job and you’re paying a mortgage, HyFlex has made it very doable,” she says.

SIT2LRN Distance Learning: choose from more than sixty programmes available across various subjects, with the convenience of flexible and accessible online delivery. From certificates through to master’s degrees, NZQA approved and with the Zero Fees Scheme available in 2023.

Joe Horvath achieved a New Zealand diploma in workplace health and safety management through SIT2LRN while working full-time in the aviation industry and being a health and safety representative.

Joe said the programme gave him a broad health and safety understanding.

“It has also given me an appreciation for the levels of responsibilities in a workplace.”

The qualification produced desired results in the form of new career opportunities; Joe now works as the Health and Safety Coordinator for the Environmental Protection Authority NZ.

Enquiries are welcome via phone 0800 40 3337 (0800 40 FEES) or website: www.sit.ac.nz

Finding time to do the things we want can be a juggle. The barrier to enrolling in study maybe, “How can I fit this it in with work or family commitments?”

Becky Littlewood

Charlene Stewart

Joe Horvath

It’s tricky to achieve study as an adult learner, when there are responsibilities to balance, you’re not in a position to leave your fulltime job and you’re paying a mortgage, HyFlex has made it very doable.

- diploma in animation, Charlene Stewart

Local Study Global Skills

SIT’s

Making water work for all concerned

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Irrigation New Zealand communications manager, Ella Stokes, says the organisation was established in 1978 to fill several gaps within the industry including representation or irrigators interests.

“The organisation was designed to provide a unified voice for the industry, promote

sustainable irrigation practices and provide resources and support for irrigators,”

Ella says.

The organisation represents over 3,500 members nationally. Their members include a wide range of farmers and growers – including sheep and beef, dairy, cropping, horticulture systems and more.

IrrigationNZ developed the industry’s first irrigation code of practice and established a national irrigation training programme.

Ella says they continue to advocate for the industry’s interests with the central and local government and other stakeholders.

“IrrigationNZ offers practical knowledge and training to help you achieve good management practice irrigation expectations,” Ella explains.

“In the 2021-2022 calendar year, IrrigationNZ trained over 300 people. 68 people completed NZQA qualification training including the NZ Certificate in Performance Assessment and the NZ Certificate in Irrigation System Design.

This was supported by the government’s Target Training and Apprenticeship Fund, which allowed students to attend fees-free.”

She says over 80 people completed online e-learning, 37 people completed workshops, 60 nationwide with their Irrigator Risk Workshops and 45 people completed training with IrrigationNZ together with Zespri.

For over 40 years, Irrigation New Zealand (previously the Irrigation Association of New Zealand), has been providing a unified voice for the irrigation industry.

IrrigationNZ focuses on a wide range of topics encompassing freshwater management. Pictured is the Waimakariri River in Canterbury, an amazing natural water resource and one of the largest rivers in the region.

Water is essential

to everything we do...

Drought is synonymous with North Canterbury summers, when the region frequently records New Zealand’s highest temperatures. Historically, these dry summers and frequent droughts have made farming difficult. The introduction of irrigation in the early 1980s transformed how we farm, making our businesses more resilient, strengthening our community and cementing the district as one of the most productive in the country.

Amuri Irrigation Company (AIC) delivers water to 130 farmers from two rivers via an open race and 130km modern pipe network. We are focused on championing sustainable water use and supporting our farmers to adopt farming systems that use water more efficiently.

AIC has an advantage over other regions as we have established relationships with all irrigators in the Amuri Basin, either as shareholders or as members of AIC’s Environmental Collective who are part of our Farm Environment Plan programme, established in 2014.

Amuri Basin Future Farming Project

AIC is currently leading a $2.5M project with support from MPI’s Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund. This threeyear partnership programme is geared to accelerate irrigated farmers’ towards a future of sustainable farming and build on the company’s existing strategy to farm beyond regulatory minimums.

With a combined focus on the environment (freshwater, climate and biodiversity), farm profitability and community resilience, the project builds on the previous work of AIC’s Environment Collective, fostering a greater understanding of the impact farming has on the environment while supporting initiatives to improve on-farm practices.

This project is being run in parallel with AIC’s other infrastructure projects, bringing water storage and hydropower generation to the area. Together these projects give our farmers the confidence to invest in their businesses and the knowledge to be resilient in the face of climate change.

AIC at a Glance:

28,000ha irrigated area

$311/ha pressurised water charge FY23

0.61s/ha/day water allocation 99% of farms on track to meet GMP

94 water monitoring sites

$338,465 investment in scientific research FY22

The project has three key workstreams:

• AIC shareholders form 14 small location-based groups addressing specific catchment challenges. Groups are facilitated with input from technical experts and data from AIC to support decision making.

• AIC holds a significant amount of data (land use, hydrology, water quality) on the Amuri Basin gathered over many years. This information is the basis of a risk-based resource management system which identifies the best solution as well as the most appropriate scale and location.

• We are designing and piloting a market-based mechanism to give farmers a financial incentive to optimise water and nutrient application.

Farmers in the Amuri Basin have a history of working together to address issues. We know we need to continue to adapt and farm in a way that protects our environment. The ABFF project represents another opportunity for our farmers to work together for the betterment of our community’s future.

We know healthy land and water is essential for the survival of our farming businesses. We’re supporting our farmers to make better decisions.

An Amuri Irrigation Project

David Croft, AIC Chair

INTELLIGENT IRRIGATION KNOWS WHEN PLANTS NEED WATER

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For more information on the Hydroflow range visit hydroflow.co.nz or scan the qr code.

WE

With more than 50 years’ experience in the construction sector we are well aware of the needs of the industry. This means we realise how important the safety of your best asset – your staff – is to you and your company’s future.

So, as a national company servicing New Zealanders in the construction industry, we are committed to the safety of your staff.

And when you deal with us you’re dealing with the owner, which means you receive a superior and speedy service – every time.

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All our equipment is rigorously tested to the highest of standards.

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Agribusiness | Irrigation New Zealand

“It is great to see so many people wanting to upskill their irrigation knowledge and skills. IrrigationNZ is an organisation that can cater training specifically related to irrigation.”

Like any organisation IrrigationNZ faces many ongoing challenges and Ella says one of these is the need to balance the interests of those with different types of irrigation and address concerns about the environmental impact of irrigation.

“The organisation has also faced challenges relation to funding and maintaining a strong membership base. Unlike other primary sector

groups, we do not receive a levy payment, therefore we rely on the voluntary support of our members and support through our training.”

Ella says IrrigationNZ is looking at the future of irrigation closely – especially regarding improved water efficiency, improved crop yields and economic benefits.

“Irrigation can bring economic benefits to the country such as more efficient agricultural production, job creation and increased investment.”

She says irrigation can also help farmers adapt to climate change and mitigate its effects.

“By providing water to crops when they need it, irrigation can help to maintain agricultural production and good security.

“This is important because climate change is expected to increase the frequency and

severity of changing weather patterns in many regions of New Zealand,” Ella says.

“Irrigation can also reduce the pressure on natural water sources such as rivers and lakes through water use from water storage providing an alternative source of water for agriculture.

This in turn helps to preserve these natural resources and protect the environment.”

IrrigationNZ is working to encourage precision agriculture which involves using sensors and other technology to monitor soil moisture levels, weather conditions and other factions that affect crop growth.

By using this information to deliver water more efficiently, farmers can reduce water wastage and improve crop yields.

“We continue to work with a range of groups and the government across a range of policy

including seeking to achieve effective policy change,” Ella says.

“Changing policy and regulations is very common in the current farming environment and they aren’t always fit for purpose and can have unintended consequences.

“We continue to push climate adaptation and resilience, water storage and capture, workable consenting pathways and more in our meetings with ministers and local government. We continue to be a reasoned voice in submissions and policy.

“We look forward to making improvements for our members in these areas in the future.” CT

Irrigation New Zealand PO Box 8014 Wellington (04) 595 6848

estokes@irrigationnz.co.nz www.irrigationnz.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Supporting sustainable solutions for farmers, catchments and their communities

Enviro Collective’s philosophy centres on supporting farmers with building resilient and agile farm systems that can continue to deliver world-class products while meeting environmental outcomes.

Our integrated approach bridges the gap between regulators and farmers, working with both sides to develop practical solutions that result in real improvements to the environment while ensuring farms remain profitable. We believe every dollar invested in environmental mitigation on-farm needs to achieve the outcomes sought.

We understand each farm and farmer is unique and they are best placed to understand the options which work best for them and their business. We take the approach of providing farmers with the knowledge they need and the options available, enabling them to choose the way forward.

Our team of trained facilitators are effective at listening to the needs of the farmers we work

with and creating a bespoke delivery plan to meet those needs. We can prepare farm plans, Overseer nutrient budgets and on-farm audits to help farmers navigate and implement the changes they need to make to continue to successfully farm in the future. We also create and provide tailored resources, workshops and field days to make it as easy as possible for a farmer to digest and action information. We specialise in the development of catchment programmes, catering for a diverse range of farm systems. Our team have been working with Barrhill Chertsey Irrigation Limited (BCI), Acton Farmers’ Irrigation Cooperative (AFIC) and their shareholders for over 8 years, creating and implementing a programme and policies which unifies farmers to work together to costeffectively achieve water quality, greenhouse gas reductions targets and other regulatory outcomes. Through our services, BCI and AFIC shareholders successfully operate at some of the highest environmental standards in the country.

Enviro Collective’s strength lies in our team, who are collectively experts in irrigation, nutrient management, facilitation, policy and planning. Our close connection with the farming community, as well as understanding of RMA planning, enables us to be effective at communicating practical solutions.

Whether you are a farmer, catchment group or regulator, Enviro Collective are able to assist you with planning for a sustainable future.

www.envirocollective.co.nz

An important focus for IrrigationNZ is catering focused knowledge to upskill the irrigation industry through a variety of courses.

IrrigationNZ focuses on a wide range of irrigation uses in New Zealand. Irrigation is used to grow a wide range of our food and fibre products we use every day.

THE LIFEBLOOD OF MID CANTERBURY

The Rangitata Diversion Race –distributing water responsibly for the prosperity of our region, for current and future generations.

The Rangitata Diversion Race (RDR) is New Zealand’s largest water supply scheme. It delivers more than six times Auckland’s total water demand.

The RDR is the lifeblood of Mid Canterbury – supporting the agricultural economy of the region and sustainable electricity generation.

As its name implies, the Rangitata Diversion Race (RDR) diverts water from the Rangitata River into a large canal (or ‘Race’). The Race starts at the Rangitata River, below the gorge at Klondyke, and journeys 67km northward, across the top of the Canterbury Plains to its discharge point on the Rakaia River at Highbank. All along the Race, there are offtakes of varying sizes where water can be diverted for stockwater, irrigation and managed aquifer recharge when required, with hydrogeneration along the way and at the end of the scheme.

The scheme provides irrigation for over 100,000ha, and the two power stations on the scheme generate over 100GWh annually – a significant contribution to the region’s electricity demand.

Since the RDR was constructed over 80 years ago, the operation of the RDR has changed considerably as a result of scheme enhancements driven primarily by the developments and technological improvements in the irrigation schemes. There are now eighteen offtakes for irrigation (originally four) which adds more complexity to the scheme operation, but the biggest operational change has resulted from the addition of Barrhill Chertsey Irrigation Ltd’s (BCIL) operation to the RDR. BCIL’s main consent is for water from the Rakaia River, and this is delivered to the RDR via Manawa Energy’s pumping facility at Highbank.

Future Proofing

The RDR is a run-of-river scheme, and one of the impacts of future climate change will be the changing pattern of water flows in the alpine and lowland rivers the scheme relies on. The company holds resource consents for the development of a major water storage facility, which will provide additional resilience in the ongoing endeavour to maintain reliable water supply.

Along its journey across the plains, the Race crosses eight lowland streams and rivers. At each crossing, the Race is taken under the river or stream in an inverted siphon – each an amazing piece of engineering and construction. The recent and forecast increased flood levels in the streams and rivers will require these siphons to be made more robust – through both upgrade and redesign.

Replacement Fish Screen

In May 2022, a new, state-of-the-art replacement fish screen was commissioned at the Klondyke intake on the Rangitata River. This $18m investment by RDRML is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to protecting the environment in which we operate.

Fish Screen prior to commissioning

Fish Screen after commissioning

This winterGet your system “tick”

The key to maximising both your water and nutrient resources comes down to the efficiency of your systems. Winter offers the perfect opportunity to audit the functioning of your system and complete any upgrades or a full new installation. A comprehensive end-to-end check by our experienced staff will provide you with the right advice and solutions to guarantee you are getting the maximum performance from your farm investment, eliminating any unnecessary wastage in your system, and ultimately giving you the best economic return.

Innovation, technology, and council environment regulations have become increasingly complex in the sector. Here at Rainer, we are leading the industry standard and have the expertise, knowledge, and resources to keep you running with an efficient, future-proofed irrigation system. Contact Rainer to book your winter check. (03) 307 9047 admin@rainer.co.nz

www.rainer.co.nz

The Rainer team are experts in farm water technology solutions for both irrigation and effluent systems.We offer a range of Intelligent products,calibrated to maximise yourwater allocation,and specialise in designing and managing effluent systems.

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Rosco Contractors Ltd

Ross Moore (Rosco) Reefton is the director and shareholder of Rosco Contractors Ltd (RCL). He began his career working as a builder and a miner. In 1995, he got a lot of experience and skills as an underground and opencast coal miner. That’s when he decided to start his own business where he offers services to the mining, civil and building construction industries in Canterbury and on the West Coast in New Zealand.

The company was fully incorporated by 2002 when Ross had ten employees and had worked on a couple of million-dollar earthwork jobs. The business has been super successful ever since. To this day, there are over 100 employees and they have had annual sales of $30 million. The company is very wellknown in these areas as Ross is known for his practical, hard work and dedication with 20plus years of experience.

To shine more of a light on Ross’s background, he started out as a joiner in 1975 in Christchurch. Unfortunately, things fell short during his apprenticeship when Ross got sick of working in the big city so he went back to the West Coast to work on buildings instead with Dave Waghorn and later on with Frank Hampson.

In late 1978, Rosco decided to try something different and went to work on mining at Archer Brothers Mine at Boatman’s underground. He continued working in underground mining at mines like Starline Minerals, Surprise Mine, Pyramid Mine, Topline Mine, Waitaui Mine, and Boatman’s Mine, which was owned by Hugh Hassan until the Boatman’s Mine incident where four of his workmates passed away in 1985.

Rosco completed his Mines Rescue ticket with Andrew Holley and Trevor Watts a week before the incident and they were there during the recovery process of the four men’s bodies after the incident happened, which was a horrible day for Reefton - well known for being a mining town. Rosco also completed his underground deputy ticket and short-firing ticket in 1985.

At the end of 1985, Rosco was moved to Echo Opencast Mine (also owned by Hugh), which was a challenging time for him as he had to work with a 20-tonne excavator for the first time. In 1987 Rosco sat his B-grade opencast coal mine manager ticket. In 1989 Francis Mining Ltd (owned by Brent Francis) bought Echo Opencast Mine and Rosco was hired to be the manager. He had this job until 1995 as he wanted to start his own company RCL.

Ross began doing farm work and then contracting for various large mines for RCL. The contract work was at Solid Energy Mine areas around Reefton, Omya’s Bentonite mine at Coalgate Canterbury and Greymouth Coal Company’s Spring Creek Mine at Dunollie. There he built access roads and site development infrastructure and was acting mine manager for a short period of time too.

He won an environmental award for his mine site rehabilitation at Moody Creek Coal Mine. At Solid Energy’s Terrace Mine in Reefton, he constructed loadout bins and a washplant. In 2003, Rosco and Barney Archer got a team of men to head to Invercargill to build new sewage ponds together with Downer Construction.

Skip to 2004, Echo Opencast coal mine and Road Opencast coal mine (owned by Brent Francis’s Francis Mining) became Rosco Contractor’s two main contracts, and to this day still are. Back then Roa incorporated the development of mine access roads via challenging steep land, going to the top of Paparoa Mountain range where opencast mining started small with only one excavator, dozer, and a couple of dump trucks.

Roa opencast mine is now a large mine with eight excavators, Cat D10 and Komatsu D475 dozers, twenty Volvo 40-tonne dump trucks, a drilling rig, and a grader. The company constructed a big workshop and offers facilities on top of the mountain to assist the fleet. On the other hand, Echo opencast mine started small and worked its way up to becoming even more triumphant than Roa in full swing. The work includes drilling and blasting, removing overburden, winning and preparing coal, coal cartage off the hill, and developing rehabilitation of the area. In 2008 Rosco took a risk and borrowed six million dollars from BNZ to buy a Hitachi EX1200 excavator and three Hitachi EH1100 70-tonne dump trucks to manage the expanding business. In late 2014, Echo opencast mine closed for one and a half years. Meanwhile, Roa opencast mine improved in the production side of things. In 2013 Ross managed to get a big contract with Waikaia Gold Ltd near Waikaia, Southland. He transported some of his bigger machines from the coast and bought more machines for the expanding demand. Nowadays the machinery includes 120-tonne Hitachi excavators, Hitachi ZX870, ZX350 and ZX225 excavators, Cat D10R, Komatsu D275 and John Deere 850J bulldozers, seven 70-tonne rigid dump trucks, four 40-tonne artic dump trucks, a water cart, and Cat 16G grader. Waikaia Gold Ltd is the biggest gold mine in New Zealand and Rosco Contractors Ltd was responsible for removing 16 meters of gravel overburden and gradually rehabilitating the backfilled land behind Waikaia Gold’s big floating gold dredge. RCL and WGL employ 40-plus team members together.

In 2014 Ross had the chance to buy the Boatman’s opencast coalmine, so in October Rosco took possession of the mine and brought in large machinery. Boatmans currently has ten employees.

He obtained the mining permits for the Larry’s Creek Alluvial Gold mine in 2008. This operation operates a five-foot gold dredge and some waste-stripping machines and has a team of four to six people.

In late 2016, Ross’ fully owned subsidiary bid for the major Reefton assets of Solid Energy New Zealand Ltd. The sale was finalised in August 2017 and nowadays Ross runs two of the three previous SENZ opencast coal mines and a coal washplant offering quality coal to various industrial customers in the upper South Island.

RCL has done extremely well and currently owns a mobile plant fleet of over 130 prime plant pieces. The company has also taken part in other things such as:

• Working on the Pike River Mine access road and freeing up the area for the washplant

• Burkes Creek diversion drain construction at Reddale mine in late 2015 and 2016

• Rehabilitation at Waikari Lime quarry in 2016

• Buller Gorge building development in 2016

• Mine access road for Inangahua alluvial gold mine in 2016

• Finished Reefton Early Learning Centre development in 2016

• Removing operations at Kumara Gold.

RCL also supports Reefton sports teams and sponsors Reefton Rugby Club, Reefton Trotting Club, Reefton Golf Club, and a national rugby team playing at a regional level called the Tasman Makos. The company also sponsors the local St Johns ambulance, local fire brigade, the West Coast Rescue Helicopter and smaller organisations.

As well as Rosco Contractors, Ross wholly owns several other businesses including:

• Fuel and Moore Ltd (a local Challenge service station)

• Reefton Tyres Ltd (a local tyre fitting business)

• Tasman Helicopters (Nelson/Tasman r egion helicopter tourist business)

• This That and Lotto (a local stationary, gifts and lotto business)

• Bro Moore Gold (local gold mine at Larry’s Creek, Reefton)

• Gold exploration company

• Boatmans Coal Ltd (a local coal mine)

• Archmore Ltd (excavator hire company)

• Moore Mining Ltd (Reefton coal mines).

Rosco is also a major shareholder in Digi-Net NZ Ltd, which is a radio repeater company.

RCL is a leading contract mining and earthmoving organisation in the South Island. They’ve built and maintained a reputation for taking on and completing work in the most challenging conditions, whatever the site terrain, weather and level of technical difficulty. RCL makes a commitment to every client to complete work on time, on budget and with no harm to people or the environment.

Services that RCL is able to take on include a wide range of earthmoving and mining skills. They operate mines in some of New Zealand’s most challenging topography and climatic conditions. Whether it’s coal, gold, industrial minerals or construction aggregates, the team has the resources to deliver any project efficiently every time. Their earthworks services enable the RCL team to work with major civil contractors on a variety of projects. They retain an active interest in partnering with such companies to deliver earthworks scope on large projects.

RCL also can hire out most of its fleet. They deal with mine rehabilitation as rehabilitation of land and management of environmental impacts is integral to the success of any mining operation. They have a strong background in rehabilitation and a proven track record. They’re currently undertaking major earthworks as part of the Oceana Gold Globe Hill Mine site rehabilitation.

The team can provide all kinds of services for agriculture. Whether it’s a mini excavator or a 100-tonne bulldozer, Rosco Contractors Ltd has the equipment to handle all earthmoving and materials for handling jobs in farms both big and small. Over the years, they’ve completed many river protection works for farmers and other clients.

Another service Rosco Contractors Ltd offers is contaminated waste disposal. At their Reefton base, they operate their consented landfill, which is able to accept a range of contaminated materials from projects as far away as Canterbury and Golden Bay. They’re able to offer drill and blast services for quarry operators and mine operators. They do their

own blast-hole drilling and their preferred partner for larger-scale blasting jobs is Prime Explosives.

Rosco Contractors Ltd offers a full service to quarry owners from development through to drill and blast, quarry operation, materials processing with their mobile crushing and screening units, and transport to market. They also supply aggregates for the Reefton area from the extraction permits the company holds.

Part of Rosco Contractors Ltds’ versatility is bulk materials transport. The team can cart coal, gravel, fertiliser, and other bulk materials on a regular basis. Through their own resources and their independent associates, they can also provide design and build solutions for their client’s project, whether it be a new quarry, small mine development or an industrial farm project.

Rosco Contractors Ltd boasts an impressive fleet; 34 excavators, 51 trucks, 12 dozers, 11 loaders, 19 support plants, 12 crushing/ screen and delivery units, and three other

units. These range in size, ability and utility for both the company itself and for potential clients to hire out for their own use.

Right from the beginning, Rosco Contractors Ltd has established itself as a proud West Coast hands-on type of company. Being based in Reefton, known as the town of light, the company is surrounded by mining heritage, only adding to the reliability and trustworthiness of such an organisation. Reefton, due to its gold-bearing quartz reefs and, later, coal, was the first place in the Southern Hemisphere to have a public supply of electricity in 1888. They’ve continued to be known as a mining community and Rosco Contractors fits right in.

The company really understands the importance of coal but also its environmental impact. In the South Island, coal powers the dairy industry’s process plants, which generate steam. Coal is also widely used in meat work and horticulture. It finds its place in heating schools and hospitals. However, like many countries around the world, New Zealand is seeking a lower-carbon future. Rosco

Contractors Ltd knows it won’t be easy – lowenergy fuels such as bio-mass bring new problems including increased transport costs. Although its main use is as an energy source, coal is still essential to the production of most metals.

These days, Rosco Contractors Ltd also provides domestic sales to its local communities. The Boiler Blend is a special blend for underfed small boilers which is $20 per 100kg. The Multi-Fuel Burner Peas or Nuts cost $20 per 100kg as do the Open Fire Nuts. So, for the best in West Coast mining and earthmoving, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Rosco Contractors Ltd. They look forward to hearing people’s enquiries! CT

Rosco Contractors Ltd

PO Box 107

Reefton

Reefton office: 03 732 7033

admin@rosco.net.nz

www.rosco.net.nz

Wild, rugged and pristinely beautiful, the South Island’s West Coast offers a potpourri of natural attractions including rain forests, lakes, rivers, mountains, ocean and glaciers.

Destination Westland

Tourism through the coast has become increasingly important to the local economy and a part of the South Island adventure where natural beauty flutters its eyelashes around every corner.

The gateway to the West Coast, Hokitika Airport, provides access from the outside world with two Air New Zealand flights arriving each day from Christchurch—adding to the local and wider regional economy.In the event of a major

Civil Defence disaster such as an earthquake or tsunami, due to its height above sea level, Hokitika Airport is likely to be the only remaining airport capable of bringing in emergency services, supplies, equipment and people. Located in the heart of Hokitika’s business district, Destination Westland is a diverse organisation managing various assets for the Westland District Council and running events such as the renowned Wildfoods

Festival. Additionally, the company manages the maintenance and upkeep of the Westland section of the West Coast Wilderness Trail, which showcases some of the Coast’s most outstanding scenery. Stretching from Greymouth’s historic port to the neat old gold town of Ross, the cycle trail takes riders on a journey through incredible natural landscapes and back in time, with tales of Maori pounamu and the glittering gold rush era.

D E S T I N A T I O N W E S T L A N D

Hokitika i-site

The Hokitika i-site Visitor Centre is part of New Zealand's official nationwide Visitor Information Network.

Over 60 i-site Visitor Centres across Aotearoa provide international and domestic travellers with information and booking services for activities, attractions, accommodation and transport. Retail items and souvenirs are also available at the centre. Want to make sure you experience all the must-do activities while on the coast? Hokitika i-site will make sure you don’t miss a thing. Needing to book activities, attractions, accommodation or transport? You can trust our i-site team to get you sorted. Just want to chat about the area? We’re happy to help.

As a Qualmark-accredited service (New Zealand tourism’s official quality assurance organisation), Hokitika i-site provides a trusted guide to iconic travel experiences. Owned by Tourism New Zealand and backed by leading industry organisations, Qualmark provides a grading system for accommodation providers and a quality endorsement programme for visitor activities, service and transport providers, as an official mark of quality. The Qualmark logo means you can book with confidence, knowing that the experience is quality-assured to the highest standards. Whether you're looking for places to stay, things to do or ways to get around, a business displaying the Qualmark logo represents the best tourism experience New Zealand has to offer.

There are not many towns that can equal Hokitika's outlook with it’s wild and beautiful beach, the blue-green waters of the Hokitika Gorge and superb views of the Southern Alps. Throw in friendly locals, great cafes, galleries, recreation, and our West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail, you have the perfect West Coast base.

In addition to offering local advice and support, Hokitika i-site also operates as an AA driver licensing agency. Services include vehicle and driver licensing, overseas conversions, RealMe, IRD and a range of other requirements.

There are not many towns that can equal Hokitika's outlook with it’s wild and beautiful beach, the bluegreen waters of the Hokitika Gorge and superb views of the Southern Alps.

Hokitika Airport – your gateway to a coastal adventure

The airport is an important tourism hub, welcoming visitors with hospitality, a range of rental car services and ample parking.

There are scenic flights operating out of the airport, and the recently completed terminal extension features a new arrivals gate, baggage collection area, open space seating and extended views of the runway.

Arrivals and departures by air into Hokitika come with the visual treat of the Tasman Sea alongside the airport runway, high mountain peaks on the eastern backdrop, and the patchwork Canterbury Plains beyond the Southern Alps — a taste of the region’s impressive natural attributes.

Hokitika Airport serves as the regional airport for Westland and the Grey districts, the towns of Greymouth and Hokitika, and — to the south — the vast wilderness regions of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, Haast and the World Heritage Area of Te Waipounamu New Zealand.

The schedule of daily services to and from Christchurch, and connections to Wellington and Auckland, ensures Hokitika Airport plays a key role in supporting the local economy and community by offering the most convenient, quickest business and leisure travel options in and out of the West Coast region.

Hokitika Airport’s meeting room and event facilities are the perfect solution to saving additional travel time. They are also conveniently situated for a range of uses including board meetings, one-on-one interviews, small workshops, conferences or evening events.

Hokitika itself is a thriving tourist centre with an historic business centre, a wide variety of accommodation, cafes and restaurants.

It’s also a popular setting or overnight stay for cyclists on the multi-day West Coast Wilderness Trail, running between Greymouth and Ross, which helps explain the frequent arrival of bicycles and their riders at the airport.

A member of the New Zealand Airports Association, Hokitika Airport operates just like its bigger cousins, hosting regular services, charter and private aircraft .

Connecting people and places, welcoming visitors and locals alike, Hokitika Airport is the main air gateway into and out of the West Coast.

Glacier Country Heliport

A reflection of the huge role the West Coast plays in New Zealand’s tourism industry, Glacier Country Heliport is the busiest heliport in the country with more than 60,000 passengers being transported annually pre-COVID.

It is operated by Destination Westland Ltd, a council-controlled organisation owned by Westland District Council.

Located in Franz Josef, Glacier Country Heliport became the first heliport in New Zealand to achieve Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Part 139 qualifying aerodrome certification, a new form of accreditation for smaller airports and heliports that recognises operational quality and safety. In achieving this, it can assure visitors that it is a facility that can be used with utmost confidence in respect to health and safety and operational systems.

The heliport is a vital part of the West Coast’s aviation and tourism infrastructure, being pivotal

in so many tourists being able to experience the must-do activity: visiting Franz Josef Glacier. Franz Josef Glacier is the most accessible of the Southern Alps’ 3,000 glaciers and provides some of the most stunning ‘ice architecture’ of any glacier in the world; however, since a spectacular collapse of the terminal face in 2023, it is now only accessible by helicopter. With that, visitors are now flown to ice that hasn't been landed on in 20 years. Whereas helicopters once landed at 750m, now hikers start their adventure at 1200m above sea level. This higher altitude is more vulnerable to the West Coast's temperamental

weather, meaning that it's more exclusive — but those lucky enough to get to the top will witness towers of moving ice, explore deep blue crevasses, and take in unparalleled views out to the Tasman Sea.

The heliport is a vital part of the West Coast’s aviation and tourism infrastructure.

Island tastes

Waiheke Distilling launches Spirit of Waiheke Artisan G&T

Waiheke Distilling Co. presents a brand-new product line, artisan Gin & Tonic RTDs. Think cocktail in a can. This is a first for Waiheke and is an exciting and convenient way to introduce artisan products to a broader range of discerning customers.

Waiheke Distilling’s first RTD, Spirit of Waiheke Artisan G&T, is anchored on the company’s signature gin, which embodies the land, wind and sea.

This contemporary dry gin, distilled with botanicals, kelp and citrus, is perfectly paired with an island inspired tonic.

“Our approach has been to hero our craft gin and focus on simplicity of ingredients. At seven percent alcohol it’s a premium RTD, aimed at discerning G&T drinkers looking for a perfect serve.”

Conveniently packaged in a striking black and white 250ml slimline can, this artisan, sophisticated Gin and Tonic provides the opportunity to experience the taste of Waiheke wherever you are.

Launching about now is their second artisan RTD, Jewel of Waiheke, based on their unique Red Ruby Gin and Blood Orange Soda, showcased in a distinct deep cherry red can to reflect the organic cherry juice that makes Red Ruby Gin such a bespoke blend.

“As a distillery we remain focussed on producing beautiful award craft spirits.

“This project has been exciting in that we have been able to showcase our authentic crafted spirit in a simple and natural form, without compromising on quality, authenticity and flavour, which is very much the challenge in this market segment.”

Spirit of Waiheke, Artisan G&T is now available on Fullers360 ferry service, Auckland to Waiheke selected sailings and sold through www.waihekedistilling.co.nz and at the distillery in Cowes Bay, Waiheke, available in singles and packs of four.

In addition to expanding their product range, the team is also launching into new markets.

“Our launch into the UK last year, was kickstarted by an approach by St James House to be an editorial partner for Strive for Perfection: The Official Platinum Jubilee Edition- an official publication for the International Club for Rolls-Royce and Bentley Enthusiasts."

This is a beautifully presented art book authored by motoring experts and awardwinning writers to celebrate The Queen’s extraordinary 70-year reign, along with exploring the close ties between royalty and Rolls-Royce and Bentley motorcars.

It also features a luxury lifestyle guide for ultrahigh-net worth individuals, which includes a showcase of a select portfolio of exceptional products and services.

Waiheke Distilling Co. award-winning gins were honoured to be amongst that carefully curated selection of high-end brands.

Nelson Fringe Festival

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Following a few hard years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the fringe festival has been a smorgasbord of entertainment.

The festival has been around since 2015 with the aim to bring experimental and alternative work to Nelson audiences. It was born with the intention of bringing people together to share, connect, uplift and grow and is now an intimate and community-centric event.

Fringe is often explained as a performance which falls outside mainstream theatre. It’s made by a wide diversity of people, some who are just starting out in the arts and other who might be very experiences but who want to try something new.

Fringe features work across a range of styles including theatre, comedy, dance, improvisation, music, burlesque, circus and whatever else artists can offer.

This year, the Nelson Fringe Festival had 40 shows over 10 days. It took place in the Red Door Theatre, Refinery Art Space, Studio One and outside the Refinery Art Space.

This allowed a massively diverse range of artists, both local and international, to join in with the festivities. The festival welcomed acts from the UK, USA, Canada and Switzerland.

Nelson Fringe Festival Director, Giles Burton, says they welcomed artist from near and far, and at every stage of their careers, some starting out and others with years of experience. “Fringe is all about taking risks, for the audience as well as the performers,” he says.

He says there was music to make your feet stomp alongside theatre that challenged and made people think, both classic work and brand new; very personal dance next to hilarious comedy.

2023 also saw the Fringe hosting workshops and “scratch night” development for local artists leading up to the festival to really help them hone their skills.

The reviews are in and attendees raved about the delightful, thought provoking and fun performances. Judene Edgar, writing for Theatre Review, says Sajeela Kershi’s performance, Free Speech and Rah-Rah Skirts was full of great laughs.

“An engaging and friendly performer who interacts frequently with the audience, Kershi balances the jokes and humour with thoughtprovoking moments about the persecution of women in Afghanistan and Iran, the blindness of stereotypes, experiences with bullies, intergenerational culture wars and what James Bond and organised religion have in common,” writes Judene.

Another Theatre Review from Melanie Stewart says Chai Pyle’s performance was talented and exciting.

“This thought-provoking piece examines the demons that plague us when we look in the mirror. Real is based on the real-life struggles of Chai Pyle as he pursues his goals and dreams. Chai wants to write a play, but battles with the multiple voices in his head that demand he explore his weaknesses and previous failures.

“His very clever and skilful use of physical theatre is demonstrated in his transitions between characters, his fight scene and puppet interpretation, symbolic of the control our thoughts have over our hearts,” she writes. This year, the festival lined up with the Wellington and Dunedin Fringe Festivals so that artists attending could tour to all three. Of course, this spectacular festival isn’t just a one off. Applications for artists to attend the 2024 festival will open later this year. CT

Wakefield Homestead is owned and operated by Hilary Bird and Margaret Bird 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.

The 2023 Nelson Fringe Festival has come to an end after featuring over 90 performers and artists in a fantastic array of music, acting, dancing and much more.

Fruit, winex and views

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

Cromwell, the town known for fresh stone fruit, sits on the shores of Lake Dunstan in Central Otago.

It’s surrounded by rugged mountains and two rivers making it a spectacular place to go and see the sights. Full of history, wine and fruit, it’s a great spot to spend the weekend.

Interestingly, Lake Dunstan wasn’t always there – in fact, it only came about in the early 1990’s due to the construction of the Clyde Dam power station. And, where Lake Dunstan now lies was the original site of Cromwell’s historic business district.

Before the lake was created, locals moved as many buildings to higher ground as they could and faithfully reconstructed others.

Now, visitors can view these historic buildings that reflect the gold mining and pioneering past. London House Stables, Captain Barry’s cottage, the Cobb and Co Store, Belfast Store and Jolly’s Seed and Grain Store are just some of the few buildings available to go and have a look at.

Summer is a great season to visit Cromwell –with fresh fruit stalls and a lake to swim, fish and boat in, it’s the quintessential kiwi summer. The views are also worth taking your time to look at and what better way to do that than

get out for a walk. Cromwell is home to some amazing walking tracks, catering to both casual walkers and the more experienced hiker.

• Devils Creek Track – 13km of challenging terrain through Cromwell Basin for the more experienced hiker

• Mt Difficulty Tracks – another challenging hike that isn’t for the faint of heart

• Aurora Track – a 4km walk through the kanuka forest and passing by some stone hut ruins

• Bannockburn Sluicings – one of the highlights of the area, this track takes hikers through 1.5km through unique rock formations.

However, summer isn’t the only season Cromwell shines in. When winter hits, there are five ski fields within a comfortable driving distance.

Plus, the snow-capped mountains surrounding Cromwell make this town a bit of a winter wonderland.

During winter, Cromwell holds an event called Light Up Winter. An event designed to banish the winter blues, there’s live entertainment, a night market, street food and the spectacular lantern release. Held at the start of August, it’s a pretty magnificent sight to behold.

For the very best of Otago fruit, wine and views, Cromwell is hard to pass up. For more information, visit: www.cromwell.org.nz. CT

ASURE CENTRAL GOLD MOTEL

ASURE Central Gold Motel Cromwell offers affordable 4-star plus accommodation in central Cromwell, just 100m from the shopping centre, golf course and various restaurants. Plenty of amazing cycle/walk ways and wineries to help you unwind and relax. The Cromwell Swim centre is directly opposite the property, also the AstroTurf for Hockey and sports grounds only a stone’s throw away. Cromwell Asure Central Gold Motel is a short 4-minute drive from Lake Dunstan. Alexandra and Clyde are only a 20 minute drive away, with Wanaka and Queenstown only 35-40 minutes drive.

The motel offers spacious and self-contained studios and one-bedroom units, also four two-bedroom family apartments. Tastefully decorated and well fitted out for our guest’s enjoyment. All rooms have Smart TV, air conditioning/heat pumps, heated floors and double glazed for guests comfort. We offer free secure bike storage for those wanting to ride the trails.

We look forward to welcoming you at ASURE Central Gold Motel - Gaylene & Craig Barnes

We have worked with Judy for the sale of two of our homes and the purchase of one over the last 6 years. Judy has a great knowledge of the market and provides a great insight into the market performance. We asked for advice in an uncertain time in the property market and she provided an incredibly honest and realistic response and we could make an informed decision about our next move. As usual, Judy worked really hard for us and her original prediction was very accurate. She has never put us wrong, and her advice is always reliable. She is fair to buyers and vendors and always comes to a good conclusion for everyone. Would recommend her every time.

Judy is inherently reliable, supportive and hard-working, and she's known for her commitment to the bigger picture in the lives of the people she works with. Personal integrity and a resolute willingness to go the extra mile have helped generate an impressive track record: many happy clients eagerly turn to her as their only choice when they come to buy or sell again.

An assured understanding of her obligations and responsibilities as a real estate professional puts people at ease as Judy leaves no stone unturned in her sales process. She is a consummate professional and a prime representative of the Harcourts brand. She truly embodies the fantastic service Harcourts clients expect and she operates with complete confidence and expertise in our systems and processes.

JUDY LUDEMANN 027 459 9361

judy.ludemann@harcourts.co.nz

Judy is extremely thoughtful and understanding. She knows her job and how to achieve the goals required. I am able to put my trust in her.

Last year the Otago Community Trust announced that a $600,000 grant was approved to support the Waitaki District Council with stage two of the Waitaki Museum & Archive - Cultural Facilities Development Project.

Chloe Searle, director of the Forrester Gallery and Waitaki Museum & Archive, said the entire Waitaki Museum & Archive team was delighted to receive the grant from Otago Community Trust.

The funds will contribute to greatly improving the collection storage. It will also allow the museum to purchase exhibition lighting and install new displays on the refurbished upper floor of the museum.

“We can’t wait to open the upper floor l ater this year and to share more of our district’s stories.”

Otago Community Trust chair, Diccon Sim, highlighted that when the trustees visited the facility, they were impressed with the careful consideration that has been given to the best way to preserve the important heritage of the Waitaki region.

The new cultural facility is recognised as meeting industry best practice for the display and preservation of heritage items and access to the space will be greatly enhanced with the installation of the modern lift, Diccon said.

“We are aware that the Waitaki community have spent quite some time exploring the best solution for the restoration of the Waitaki Museum and Archive and the Forrester Gallery

Preserving the region’s heritage

and we recognise things as being well on track for the completion of a modern contemporary facility to showcase the Waitaki districts heritage and collections.”

Capital projects were also a driver behind several other applications for funding last May. Alexandra based IceInLine Central Inc were approved a $250,000 grant to assist with the new outdoor ice rink roofing project.

Hugh McIntyre of IceInLine Central said the roofing project is the third and final stage of three-stage development of the IceInLine facility. The installation of a roof to cover the existing facility, along with proper lighting will transform the user experience and enable the season to be extended and more competitions to be hosted.

Otago Community Trust chief executive Barbara Bridger noted that the $250,000 grant is the third significant grant Otago Community Trust has approved to support IceInLine Central since the group started the staged approach to the upgrade back in 2010.

“The Trust is pleased to have been able to support IceInLine throughout each stage of the facility upgrade.

“Ensuring people have access to wellresourced recreational facilities is incredibly important for healthy, vibrant communities and strategically this grant fits well with our new strategic plan and funding pillar ‘Improved Health and Wellbeing.”

Additional grants included the Order of St John South Island Region who were approved a $50,000 grant to assist with the cost of the purchase and fit out of a new First Response vehicle for the Wanaka service area. This new 4WD First Response unit for Wanaka will greatly improve coverage in the remote rural Upper Clutha communities.

The Catlins Area School were approved a $49,423 grant to assist with resurfacing the

existing courts with new asphalt, lines and equipment to provide four courts that can be utilised throughout the year. The current courts were designed and constructed in the mid1980s and are in poor condition.

New Zealand Red Cross Inc were approved a $19,700 grant to assist with the cost of expanding their Settlement Youth Work Programme in Dunedin.

The city is deemed a priority location due to high needs of refugee youth in the city and the expansion of the Settlement Youth Work Programme is seen as critical to fill the gap in the current service provision and reduce the current inequity of support for refugee background youth in Dunedin.

In total Otago Community Trust gave $1,391,793 to 31 community organisations in May 2022. CT

Ensuring people have access to well-resourced recreational facilities is incredibly important for healthy, vibrant communities and strategically this grant fits well with our new strategic plan and funding pillar ‘Improved Health and Wellbeing.

Spectacular Southland

On the very edge of the Southern Pacific Ocean, embracing the land of the deep south of New Zealand and some mighty rolling r’s, you’ll find the region of Southland.

Home to some of New Zealand’s most varied and dramatic landscapes, exquisite fare, and generous southern hospitality it has everything you need – and more – for the holiday of a lifetime.

Southland is a region of visual contrasts.

With spectacular mountains, the deepest of lakes, meandering rivers, rolling lush green farmland, and a captivating ‘edge of the world’ coastline that stretches for an incredible 3,400 kilometres, the stunning scenery could be reason enough to head south.

However, you’ll find that in Southland, it isn’t just your sense of sight that will be inspired.

They say that sometimes the journey can be better than the final destination and while we would argue that the Southland destination can be hard to beat, we would agree that travelling to and around the region can be a bucket-list experience in itself.

Heading south, you could choose to travel through the Catlins along the Southern Scenic Route – an incredible journey that has been ranked one of the top 10 drives in the world, and for good reason.

The beautifully rugged Catlins coast is a must-do. This spectacular coastal stretch is home to an array of marine life where sea lions are regular beach visitors, and dolphins can be seen frolicking in the shallows. You may also be lucky enough to spot the rare but distinctive hoiho - the yelloweyed penguin.

Southern hospitality is alive and well here and you will find that a good story, great

coffee, and locally sourced produce is never too far away. From the sea, you’ll be treated to succulent seafood including the famous Bluff Oyster which is reputed to be the best in the world.

A trip to Southland will not just leave your belly full though, your heart will also be full of the wonderful experiences that will have you planning your next trip before you have even left.

With unmatched regional beauty, friendly locals and delectable southern fare waiting to be discovered, you will be captivated by everything Southland can offer you.

So, take the opportunity to go south, get away from the everyday for a while and discover the magic of Southland.

For more information visit: www.southlandnz.com CT

Lake Hauroko, Southland. Image courtesy of Videocopter.

Staying safe while on the hunt

By Timmi Aplin-Barrett

The New Zealand Professional Hunting Guides Association (NZPHGA), is working hard to keep people safe while they’re out on guided hunting trips.

An incredibly rewarding hobby and profession with its own unique hazards, hunting is a key part of New Zealand life.

NZPHGA president, Simon Guild, says guided hunting in New Zealand is unregulated which means that anyone with a firearms licence, rifle and a 4WD can basically set themselves up as a hunting guide.

“As you can imagine, this leads to a few cowboys masquerading as legitimate, professional guides which, at the least, can lead to some unpleasant experiences for clients and, at worst, pose some serious risks to health and safety.”

He says the NZPHGA has a thorough prevetting process that requires guides to disclose their previous guiding and hunting experience, firearms licence details, first aid qualifications and any criminal convictions.

Successful applicants are then invited to attend a rigorous week-long, live-in training course held on a certified Game Estate.

The course is known as the Professional Hunter Academy (PHA) and covers all core aspects of being a guide with a real focus on health and safety in the hunting and firearms environments.

Guides who pass the course are offered either a guide or outfitter membership, depending on the type of role they hold within the industry.

“Once members, NZPHGA guides have access to a comprehensive health and safety plan designed to ensure the safety of themselves and their clients,” Simon says.

“Reputable NZPHGA guides usually enjoy access to exclusive, private land hunting areas, either free range or game estates specially managed for the purposes of hunting.”

This provides the hunter with a high level of confidence that they will enjoy good hunting

and, most importantly, avoid the many risks with hunting on un-managed public land.

“Basically, if you want the reassurance that you’re in safe, professional hands for your hunting trip, there really is no alternative.”

Anyone can use an NZPHGA guide, but Simon says a guide may be particularly suitable for novice hunters looking to learn how to undertake a safe and successful hunt and learn key skills, time-poor hunters looking to secure a result within a limited timeframe, hunters seeking to achieve a specific goal such as a certain species, international hunters seeking a safe and legal way to hunt in New Zealand, group and individual hunters seeking access to superior land, animals and opportunities. In short, any hunter who values quality and safety over low cost and is prepared to pay to satisfy this requirement.

The costs of hiring a NZPHGA guide vary depending on the type of hunt booked but Simon says guide fees usually range from $300 to $500 per day.

“Some hunts may be offered as packages which include guide fees, transport, equipment, accommodation, access and game animals.”

NZPHGA guides support the 5 Ps for a safe and successful hunt as well as the New Zealand Seven Basic Rules of Firearms Safety. These both ensure the guide and their group are hunting with the utmost safety. For more information and to enquire about finding a guide, get in touch with the NZPHGA. CT

New Zealand Professional Hunting Guides Association www.nzpgha.com

— Advertising Feature

Gedson Guide Services

A keen outdoors man and supporter of the NZPHGA, Braden Gedson from Gedson Guide Services says it is important to protect New Zealander’s ability to enjoy the outdoors.

“The social and political environment of our country is concerning for our industry and our ability to enjoy the outdoors the way we do.

“The NZPHGA is our team. With good people continuing to lead and more of us being involved, the NZPHGA is a great body that we can use to both educate people on what hunting has to offer and speak out against government changes that negatively impact every New Zealander’s ability to continue to enjoy the amazing country we live in.

“I know there is a stack of us out there who love what we do and how we do it. I believe if we band together, set aside pride and all push in the same direction, we can preserve what we have.”

Tracing Otago’s gold mining history

20 kilogrammes and worth over one million dollars each.

This year the mine is creating a lookout and viewing area and developing a range of updated interpretation panels which will explain modern mining and also the history of the industry and the area. In the meantime, there are two historic buildings well worth a visit.

Stanley’s Hotel

isolated communities. The hotel remained in the Stanley family until 1960.

Today Stanley’s Hotel is the centrepiece of the small settlement of Macraes Flat. The building is owned by OceanaGold and leased to hoteliers. The company has spent over $300,000 in earthquake strengthening and refurbishing.

Almost all were sold for scrap in the middle of last century.

In May 2020 Callery’s Battery was listed as a Category One historical place on the New Zealand Heritage List.

Macraes Flat township sprang up, named after John McRae who lived in the area from 1859. It became a busy mining town with around 25 businesses and a population of 500 people. Miners used shovels, pans, cradles, sluice boxes, sluicing and stamping batteries in the early days for both alluvial and hard rock mining.

Mining returned to the area in 1990, and today OceanaGold’s Macraes gold mine is New Zealand’s largest active gold mine, having produced over five million ounces of gold to date.

The mine employs around 850 people, drawing them from surrounding areas and as far afield as Oamaru and Dunedin. The operation features of a large-scale surface mine, two underground mines, and a plant which produces gold bars weighing around

The stone single-story Stanley’s Hotel was built in 1882 for owner Thomas Stanley. Tom was the son of a sea captain. He took over a ramshackle wooden building in the settlement and engaged a stonemason from Hyde called Budge to ‘build me an inn that will last’.

The schist stone was quarried from a hill behind the Catholic Church and transported by horse and cart to the site. Legend has it that the entrance hall was laid with marble destined for St Joseph’s Cathedral in Dunedin.

It appeared to have been ‘waylaid’ along the way. Budge was well known for his craftsmanship, but also his great love of beer. It took him five years to complete the building. During all of this time he was paid in beer. He is reputed to have consumed “72 hogsheads in all”, equivalent today to over 51,000 cans.

Stanley’s was renowned for the quality of its food and hospitality in an age when wayside food and lodging were of great importance in

The hotel is a significant reminder of the importance of such wayside accommodations to isolated communities such as Macraes Flat. The hotel as well as its outbuildings which include a billiards room, a stone shed, stables and pig pen provide an illustration of the services associated with the hotel. Stop in for a meal (or a beer!) and take in the atmosphere of one of New Zealand’s oldest hotels.

Callery’s Battery

Callery’s Battery in the Golden Point Historic Reserve is New Zealand’s best surviving example of an authentic working stamper battery on its original site.

Built in 1902 to serve the Golden Point gold mine, the five-stamper plant was in commercial operation until the 1950s and processed both gold and scheelite. Hundreds of stamper batteries like this once pounded gold out of rock at goldmines across New Zealand but have long since fallen silent.

The battery is protected and looked after by the Department of Conservation as an outstanding example of a small-scale stamp battery in original working condition.

It shows how a stamp battery was set up to run, with its stamps, drive train and power source all intact and how all of the smaller elements in a battery, such as workshops, electrical plant and the forge, were arranged.

The site is accessible to the public and provides the opportunity to learn about the history of mining technologies and the lives of miners in isolated goldfields.

To get to the Golden Point Historic Reserve members of the public need to cross an active mine haul road where mine vehicles may be operating. There is a checkpoint where you may be required to stop until the haul road is clear.

From the carpark at the reserve access to the battery is on foot across Deep Dell Creek. This may not be possible after heavy rain, The battery and the surrounding buildings are well worth a visit as a time capsule of days gone by. CT

Gold was first discovered in the Macraes Flat area in Otago in 1862 when prospector James Crombie found alluvial gold in Deepdell Creek, setting a gold rush in motion.

Stanleys Hotel. Photo courtesy of Geoff Guthrie.

Callery’s Battery interior. Photo courtesy of Kit Wilson. Golden Point Reserve. Photo courtesy of Kit Wilson.

Skyline Queenstown

Skyline Queenstown has initiated a massive project to upgrade the Queenstown Gondola and all facilities on Bob's Peak. The project will involve replacing the current 4-seat cabins with a brand new 10-seat Gondola, constructing a new and larger Base Terminal to accommodate the new cabins and increased visitor capacity, building a multi-storey car park, and expanding and upgrading the top complex on Bob's Peak.

The new base terminal building and major expansion of the restaurant complex will be able to accommodate the growth in visitor numbers to Queenstown for many years to come. Phase One of the project involved a health and safety exercise in the Gondola corridor and the removal of over 2,800 wilding conifers, which are an invasive tree species in New Zealand. In addition, the team carried out a large rock excavation at the Skyline Base Terminal and laid the foundations for the new Top Gondola Terminal.

Phase Two of the project will be called "The Big Changeover," starting from April 23rd to July 1st, 2023, and will mark the end of an era for the 4-seat Gondola. Key milestones of Phase Two include removing the existing gondola terminals and towers, constructing the Base Terminal's machine hall, establishing a temporary ticketing building, and constructing the new top gondola terminal building.

Once the new 10-seat Gondola is launched in July 2023, Skyline Queenstown will enter Phase Three of the project. During this phase, the team will operate with the new 10-seat Gondola, a newly completed Top Gondola Terminal, and new Base Terminal machine hall and back of the house, while the new ticketing hall is still under construction.

From July to October 2023, a temporary ticketing building will be in place as construction of the new ticketing hall, multistorey car park building, and associated landscaping and streetscaping continues. Key milestones of Phase Three include completing the construction of the Base Terminal ticketing

hall, completing the car park construction, and Brecon Street streetscaping.

Phase Four of Project Skyline will involve the phased replacement and significant upgrades of the top complex on Bob's Peak. The development of this state-of-the-art facility will double the capacity of the Stratosfare Restaurant and significantly expand the viewing decks. Overall, the development of Skyline Queenstown's new Gondola and facilities will have a significant positive impact on the Queenstown tourism and hospitality sector, providing an enhanced visitor experience and supporting the growth of the local economy for decades to come.

Employers and potential employee support

On the website, there is:

Business support

This includes events, funding, and resources for local companies.

Data and insight

Which includes Selwyn Business Survey outcomes and data reports.

The Selwyn Awards

Selwyn Business Index

Spot a local business.

Advertise a Selwyn business.

Workshops

Every so often the council sets up workshops to help a Selwyn business grow and develop their business and there are future workshops listed online closer to the time.

Many people and companies like Selwyn as it’s family-friendly, easy-going, down-to-earth, and fun with some exceptional educational facilities, fewer traffic lights, and stunning investment properties.

The council aims to continue to help develop wealth in the district and can help entrepreneurs create and improve their businesses through promoting Selwyn businesses via this online link: www.selwyn. govt.nz/community/business/selwyn-directory

Operating a business means there needs to be strong teamwork involved, which requires various skills, experience, and knowledge from everyone, and these skills can greatly benefit the future of the business.

Through the NZTE Capability Development programme, including funding for state-ofthe-art research and development, the council can help with figuring out a business owner’s unique management desires, and possibly help with managing these needs financially.

Good concepts can give rise to modern products and services, more intelligent ways of doing things, and set the business apart from other similar businesses.

Have a look at the latest news, information and events related to businesses here: www. selwyn.govt.nz/community/business

There is also a supportive upcoming event that both business owners and people looking to be employed can attend.

Work Ready: Road to Employment is taking place from April 3rd until July 19th at the Te Ara Atea library from 10am until 1pm in Rolleston.

This organisation works with individuals, businesses, and communities to help people prepare things like advice for students, parents returning to work and employees going through redundancy or looking for a different

pathway, individual work support like a mock interview, business employee assistance like helping companies with outplacement support, staff career development, team building, work consultancy like research on specific industries, creating digital resources for the community, and more.

This will be a worthwhile event to attend for more career/business/community support.

Visit the Work Ready website: https://workready. CT

Look and feel your best with Caci

Caci are experts in skin, laser and cosmetic injectables. Voted New Zealand’s best beauty destination, you’ll love having that skin confidence feeling after visiting the team at Caci Rolleston. Claudia and her team of expert Registered Nurses and Skin Therapists at the Rolleston Square clinic are one of over 80 locations nationwide. You can find Caci in Nelson, Blenheim, Rangiora, Merivale, Marshland, Ferrymead, Sydenham, Riccarton, Rolleston and Ashburton.

At Caci Rolleston, the team are family and aim to make their customers feel part of this. Ensuring customers are informed, comfortable and loving their treatments are just a part of the Caci experience.

At Caci the team will personalise a treatment plan to suit you giving you the best possible results. Caci’s membership and payment plan options are the answer to taking care of your skin health. Simply choose from:

• Cosmetic Injectables

• Skin Treatments

• Laser Hair Removal

I have worked with Caci for nearly 8years, starting as a Beauty Therapist, through to Treatment Advisor and now Owner of Caci Rolleston. Beauty is my passion and to see the confidence people gain along the way from their treatment results, skincare advice, and guidance from us, is the reason why I am doing what I am today.

– Claudia, Clinic Owner

When you sign up to a membership at Caci you will enjoy:

• Savings on beauty services and skincare!

• Bonus Treats (facials!)

Plus you’ll save money. Being on a membership means that you will pay less than if you were to pay for individual treatments. Caci can also offer a payment plan, so you can pay off your treatments over time. It’s like a gym membership but for your Caci treatments.

And your skincare plan doesn’t end at the clinic. Caci are stockists of Skinsmiths and Murad skincare. This means that their team of experts can help assist you in creating the perfect at-home skincare regime to compliment your in clinic treatments.

According to the Selwyn District Council, supporting businesses – whether people want to be employed or employers are looking for potential employees, the council provides events, resources, and information to help future employees and employers.

Marking nine decades of excellence

By Natasha Parrant

C. J. Cooper was on the organising committee for the Master Plumbers NZ conference in Christchurch in 1973 with N. C. Cowles, who was the chairperson of the organising committee for the next conference in 1986.

The well-known Christchurch-based company, which specialises in plumbing maintenance, repairs and renovations with a team of skilled plumbers and gas fitters, can attribute its longevity to a number of factors.

Established in 1931 by Edward (Ted) Walton, Walton Plumbing recently marked its 90th birthday - quite an achievement.

To provide some history, in 1926 Edward joined the association Master Plumbers New Zealand (NZ) and was the president of Master Plumbers NZ from 1976 until 1977.

Another memorable moment happened in 1956 when Mr Courtney Cooper agreed with Mrs. Walton to take ownership of the business, which meant Mrs. Walton became the first female to work in the office.

A great moment in Christchurch’s history occurred when Walton Plumbing employed Louise Stella who became one of the first women apprentice plumbers in Christchurch in 1993.

Many big adjustments have happened over 90 years as the company has had four main ownership changes, which include Teddy Walton to Courtney Cooper, Bruce McCrory, Ron and Ken Hamilton, to Clyne and Bennie Group.

Walton Plumbing originally offered plumbing and drainage services with a big focus on construction, but over time it has also started focusing on servicing and repairing hot water systems.

To this day the company goes the extra mile to deliver excellent customer service Christchurch-wide and many customers believe it’s one of the best plumbing businesses in the business.

Walton Plumbing managing director Martin De Gouw is understandably extremely proud that the company is celebrating its milestone 90th birthday.

“Any business that’s been around for 90 years is a big achievement. It’s had a few different owners and it’s served many of its customers for a long period of time, which is also worth celebrating.

“We’ve had loyal customers, many of them are into their third generation now that are coming back to us because their grandfather used to shop here.”

A key to Walton Plumbing’s longevity is that it has maintained its commitment to delivering quality service throughout its history.

“It’s hard to achieve for some modern companies and it’s been a real plus for the owners and previous owners for Walton Plumbing that have kept it going, and it’s gone through various stages in life as well.”

But no matter the size or scope of the project, Walton Plumbing is capable of delivering a full scope of plumbing-related services. The company always aims to improve itself to be the best it can be.

Any company that survives for nine decades is obviously doing something right and Walton Plumbing is no exception.

Walton Plumbing co-directors Martin De Gouw (left) and James Cowles (right).

Celebrating the occasion

Established in 1931 by Edward (Ted) Walton, Walton Plumbing recently marked making it to more than 90 years in business.

Managing director Martin De Gouw is extremely proud the company is celebrating such a milestone.

“Any business that’s been around for 90 years is a big achievement. It’s had a few different owners and it’s served many of its customers for a long period of time, which is also worth celebrating.”

Here are some shots from Walton Plumbing’s 90th birthday party celebrations.

1. John Allender (Advantage Fire) & Phil Sewel (Godreys Law)

2. James Cowles & Granville Denton (Chin Chiller Brewing)

3. Davina Smith & Anna Lawrence (Clyne and Bennie)

4. Kylie Woodham, Hariette Jansen & Wendy McLintock (Walton Plumbing)

5. Craig Hamilton, Shaun Eckhout, Tim Clarke & Brent Thompson (Walton Plumbing)

6. Kate Stewart & James Cowles

7. Kate Stewart & Jaya Bhanan (Clyne and Bennie)

8. Marie Scoones (Oakwood Properties) & Martin De Gouw (Clyne and Bennie)

Five years from now, it hopes to employ double the staff to offer more services, address larger amounts of shop and hospitality fit-outs, more alterations, and expand its commercial servicing offer.

They intend to hire more staff through its apprenticeship training programme; something you’d imagine won’t be hard to achieve, as Walton Plumbing’s 90-year history illustrates it’s one of the best in the business.

It has also been successful for so long because it’s diversified over time. The team has worked on all kinds of plumbing projects, from commercial construction to all-around plumbing, and on to more maintenance and alteration-focused services.

The secret to the company’s longevity is having strong customer loyalty, something which has been achieved over many generations.

The friendly team offers affordable prices and is professional, honest, hard-working, respectful, and available 24/7.

So, what are you waiting for, get in touch with them today! CT

Walton Plumbing

112 Buchan Street

Sydenham

Christchurch (03) 366 0306 service@waltonplumbing.co.nz www.waltonplumbing.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Walton Plumbing’s 90th celebration.

The Walton Plumbing office.

The glue behind any successful project

Cohesive Group is a familyowned business which began in Ashburton back in 2015.

The Lynch family branched out from dairy farming to become the South Island’s sole distributor of Wide Span Sheds which is a wide range of pre-engineered cold-rolled steel buildings made using mostly New Zealand steel.

Cohesive Group marketing manager, Ayesha Harnett, says the family saw a gap in the market where there wasn’t anyone offering quality kit set sheds in the Canterbury region.

“As the scope of our work grew, Cohesive Group was launched in early 2019 to more accurately reflect the work we were doing, whether it was a large commercial building or a multi-lease unit,” Ayesha says.

“Wide Span Sheds is still very much a thriving business and Cohesive Group operates alongside it.”

Now, Cohesive Group has many facets including: Wide Span Sheds, Cohesive Construction, Cohesive Design and Cohesive Homes.

Cohesive Construction specialises in coldrolled steel portals spanning up to 24 metres, U-Beams spanning between 20-40 metres, web trusses spanning up to 70 metres, tilt panels, low maintenance materials, safety in design, firewalls and intertenancy walls and contaminated sites.

Meanwhile, Cohesive Design employs a range of qualified design and structural drafting professionals. The team works side by side with their construction team, developing commercial and industrial build solutions for their clients.

Cohesive Design employs their own inhouse structural drafts people who ensure consistency across the architectural and structural drawings they produce.

Cohesive Homes offer tailored and custom design solutions that are both stylish and affordable. Their homes offer high stud heights, large spans and large, open spaces which provide space to work, live and play, all under one roof.

Cohesive Group have been working on several large-scale commercial projects recently.

Ayesha says they’ve recently completed stage one of the cool store project for CoolTranz.

“Located on a 15,000m2 section in Hornby, this cool store and distribution centre is

1,700m2 and complete with eight loading docks, each with sectional insulated doors, inflatable dock seals and hydraulic dock levellers.

“We will be commencing stage two soon which will be the office block.”

They’ve also been working on a project for Total Energy on Waterloo Road which is a 1,700m2 multi tenancy warehouse.

“It has beautiful ACM panel offices for Total Energy NZ, the main tenant being Total Oil who are an oil and lubricant distributor supplying oil to many local businesses,” Ayesha says.

The second unit within the warehouse is to be leased out. The warehouse project has just been completed.

The group have recently completed some smaller scale projects too; Ayesha says they’ve just completed their third Auto wash in Canterbury.

One is in Kaiapoi, one is in the city and the latest is a custom truck wash in Harewood. She says they’re a speciality design as they recycle up to 80 percent of the water used.

“We’ve also recently completed Ngai Tahu’s latest commercial building in Rolleston that was purpose built for South Star (a fertiliser company).

“This is a 5,000m2 building with double storey offices. We also have a newly completed warehouse and office in the new Waimakariri Business Park that was built for an investor and will be leased out.”

Since the inception of the first Wide Span branch in 2015 and the launch of Cohesive in 2019, they’ve opened another seven branches and now operate in all major cities in the South Island.

“We also have a Waikato office that services much of the North Island from South Auckland right down to Taranaki, Gisborne, Hawkes Bay and Wellington.” CT

Cohesive Group

836 Colombo Street

Central Christchurch 0800 264 374

www.cohesivegroup.co.nz

www.sheds.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

A personal approach to building

By Michaela Pointon

Vulcan Construction is an efficient and high-quality small building company based in Christchurch.

Whether you are building your first home, needing a landscape garden makeover, wanting a kitchen renovation or developing a multimillion-dollar architecture project, no task is too big or too small.

Owner and director of Vulcan Construction, Ruben Jenkin, founded the company in 2020. Ruben has worked hard to ensure the business is the next sought-after building company in Otautahi

He says the business has thrived off being small enough to make personal connections with clients, while also being established enough to take on bigger projects too.

“Every project is completed to the highest standard and with the same care and attention, no matter how big or small,” says Ruben. Ruben’s brother, Carl, works closely alongside him behind the scenes as office manager to support business ventures and next steps.

Vulcan Construction was established as a business during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. This was a risky opportunity and Ruben welcomed the challenge.

“Starting a new business during lockdown was a little challenging, but I quickly built a good client base.

“I went out on my own business venture and after the first year I started employing tradies to work for me on bigger projects.”

He says he received some work from local neighbours, which ‘snowballed’ into more clients wanting a new home build or renovations to their property.

Being open to the majority of building construction opportunities including new builds, renovations or landscaping has meant Vulcan Construction covers a wide range of expertise in their business, appealing to a variety of clients.

“We are [quite] young motivated entrepreneurs working in the building sector. Seeing the director of the company on the tools and building our homes, gives a personal, intimate interaction when you work with us,” Ruben says.

“Having the boss on site who can answer questions straight away means the process of building and constructing is efficient.”

Ruben says his personal favourite aspect of building is renovating old homes and refurbishing them into new liveable homes for the future.

He is a creative idea’s person who wants to work alongside you to turn your inspiration into reality.

Looking ahead to the future, Ruben hopes to bring Vulcan Construction into the Passive Homes and Healthy Homes sector.

He says their homes are already built to the New Zealand building code standard, but building ‘above’ building code expectations is what will continue to set their business apart.

Ruben and his team have worked hard to develop Vulcan Construction into the business it is today. Working directly with Ruben, you will know your next project will be created with the utmost care and detail.

Ruben is a young entrepreneur who is not afraid of working hard and putting in the hours. “We pride ourselves on working with our clients to ensure their needs are met.

This is the experience we hope you will have when you choose to work with us at Vulcan Construction.”

If you are thinking about building your next home and want to get in touch with Ruben, he will be more than happy to guide you in the right direction and next steps.

Vulcan Construction has been a Registered Master Builder since 2021. By choosing to build with a Registered Master Builder, you are choosing quality and assurance.

To find out more about Vulcan Construction, make sure to visit their website www. vulcanconstruction.co.nz. Or instead, email the team at info@vulcanconstruction.co.nz, or give Ruben a call on 027 389 3524. CT

All photos supplied by Vulcan Construction.

Vulcan Construction Christchurch 027 389 3524 info@vulcanconstruction.co.nz www.vulcanconstruction.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

The importance of waste reduction

care about sustainability, want to do it well, and want to be recognised for their efforts –especially by their customers.

“Having external validation gives businesses an advantage, especially in a sector that is increasingly under the microscope by Government, councils and the public,” Francesca says.

Why an ecolabel? Its creator, Environmental Choice New Zealand (ECNZ), sets the highest standards for environmental preferability in New Zealand.

If you see a product, such as a cleaning product – or even toilet paper – with the ECNZ logo, you can be assured the manufacturer has done everything they could do to create better environmental outcomes, from material sourcing through to end-of-life solutions.

ECNZ decided it was time we collectively understood what best practice means when it comes to dealing with construction and demolition waste.

Over a period of 12 months, ECNZ consulted with experts in the field and developed a thorough specification that is available online for free public viewing.

ECNZ general manager, Francesca Lipscombe, says the ecolabel is right for organisations that

The resulting specification, Construction and Demolition Waste Services (EC-59 C&D Waste), outlines in detail how to effectively and efficiently deal with construction and demolition waste.

For example, it requires separating waste onsite and achieving at least 70 percent diversion from landfill.

The great news for architects, builders, and developers is that the ECNZ ecolabel for construction and demolition waste supports Green Star accreditation.

“If you are working on a building project where the waste contractor or waste generator has an ECNZ licence, Green Star’s mandatory minimum reporting requirement for construction and demolition waste is automatically met.

“In addition, projects using ECNZ licensed waste contractors also qualify for one point under Green Star’s 70 percent diversion from landfill credit.”

Your RECYCLING bin is only for the following CLEAN items…

Waste not, want not

The construction and demolition sector can make up about 50 percent of New Zealand’s waste according to BRANZ.

Originally, the waste disposal levy was introduced via the Waste Minimisation Act 2008 in order to raise revenue towards efforts to minimise waste however, the levy only applied to municipal landfills.

WasteMINZ CEO, Janine Brinsdon, says the increased cost of disposal will eventually have an economic impact.

“It will also generate $276m per annum by 2024 – a significant increase from $30 million per annum in 2020. This revenue will be reinvested into waste minimisation projects, including investment in C&D waste projects.

“If the sector doesn’t embrace reduction in the levels of waste being sent for disposal, rather than reused or repurposed, then the financial impact to the sector will be at a level where it will add additional pressure on margins and costs. Increased focus on waste minimisation at design and more effective material separation management, either onsite or aggregated, will help mitigate this risk.”

Furthermore, BRANZ suggests that much of what is considered ‘construction waste’ could easily be diverted from landfills simply by sorting the waste.

For those interested in teaming up with WasteMINZ and joining its new Recycling & Resource Recovery group, more information on membership can be found at: www.wasteminz.org. CT

Make sure you recycle right

To ensure your bin gets emptied and to avoid contamination of recycling:

Keep items loose

Don’t squash bottles, tins or cans

Put all lids in the rubbish

Make sure everything is clean

We can’t accept:

Plastics numbered 3, 4, 6 & 7

No containers larger than 3L or smaller than 150ml

Soft plastics or any plastic you can scrunch into a ball

Takeaway cups and liquid cartons

Paper smaller than an envelope

Compostable items

Clothes and toys

Nappies

Polystyrene

Pans and foils

Window glass, crockery & light bulbs

Batteries

General rubbish or food.

Repeated contamination may result in withdrawal of your kerbside collection service.

Here are some handy recycling tips: Empty, Clean and Loose

All containers need to be empty, clean and loose in the bin (not bagged). All lids must be put in the rubbish.

Look for the Triangle

Plastic bottles and containers have a plastic code, usually on the bottom inside a triangle. This code tells us the type of plastic it is and whether or not it can be recycled. We can only accept plastic types 1, 2 and 5.

Paper and Cardboard

Paper and cardboard needs to be flat not crumpled up and must be clean with no food or food-staining. We can accept clean and empty pizza boxes in the recycling. Those with oil or food on the cardboard can go in your organics bin, worm farm or compost, otherwise put them in the rubbish.

Size Does Matter

We can only take paper that’s envelope sized or larger; and plastic containers sized from 100 mls to 3 litres – no smaller than a yoghurt pottle, no larger than 3 litres, no lids.

Coffee Cups are a No-No

Take-away coffee cups and lids cannot be recycled.

Clothing or bedding, appliances or tools, toys, polystyrene, machine parts, soft plastics, and more… None of these can be processed so don’t put them in your recycling bin. If you have any reusable items, drop them off to a charity or our Southbrook resource recovery park. Mobile phones, scrap metal, whiteware and clean polystyrene packaging can also be dropped off for free at Southbrook. Soft plastics can be taken to a shop with Soft Plastics Recycling. Rubbish is Rubbish!

Rubbish, including nappies, plastic strapping, food scraps must go in the rubbish bin.

Some two years ago, an ecolabel was launched with big ambitions – to help tackle construction and demolition waste in New Zealand.

If too many people put the wrong things in their recycling bins, the whole truckload goes to landfill.

Waste can be diverted by extracting and reusing materials like metals.