Canterbury Today Magazine Issue #113

Issue 113 | July/August 2012

The

Mettrick system

The man behind Stonewood Homes, Brent Mettrick explains what it takes to buck the trend and gives his take on the building boom that’s about to break

The perfect storm Debt, austerity, low growth and high unemployment make for a gloomy forecast

Words of wisdom A couple of high profilers muse about motivation

The champions’ champion On the eve of his final Olympic mission, Dave Currie talks about the state of the Games and those who play them

Property Why commercial property investment is a better bet than residential

• Become a customer focused company • Dispelling urban myths around trademarks • The inside line on internet shopping • Fonterra delievers for Darfield

News | Initiatives | Interviews | Personalities | Information | Success | Profiles | Finance | Property | Sustainability | Export | Transport | Retail | Solutions | ISSN 1174-9520

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contents

Features

In Business

6 Editorial

11 Property

36 Star Homeshow

Getting back in black

Olly Newland explains why commercial property investment is a better bet than residential

Get warm this winter with the HPAC Energy Centre and Firenzo wood fires

Become a customer focused company

7 Finance Savers and investors still getting it wrong Issue 113

7 Intellectual property

13,746

Dispelling urba n myths around trademarks

ABC circulation as at 31/03/12

8 Working life

www.canterburytoday.co.nz HEAD OFFICE Academy House 47B Birmingham Drive Middleton PO Box 1879 Christchurch

In this issue…

Viewpoints

6 Management

Canterbury Today

Issue 113 July/August 2012

12 Cover story Stonewood Homes managing director Brent Mettrick explains what it takes to buck the trend and gives his take on the building boom that’s about to break

14 Quick questions The inside line on internet shopping from online retailer Felt

Is your work-life balance in crisis?

17 Restyling Sydenham

8 Productivity

An inner city suburb planning to becomes the centre of attention

Daily planning made simple

18 The perfect storm

MANAGING DIRECTOR

39 Focus The real cost of hiring, Strawberry Sounds, Les Mills’ inner city gym, J Friend & co’s award winning honey, Ironic Art, the Earth & Sky Observatory, indulgence at Champs Elysees, Arc Innovations, the Dunedin Chinese Garden

57 Goods and Services Make your mark with Global Culture, affordable luxury at Bella Gifts and Savoir Lingerie, Corporate Wellness, Cressy Farm’s free range pork, Wimpex distribution, Century Park Motor Lodge, Horton Signs and Mainpower’s new wind farm

Gary Collins

9 Society

GENERAL MANAGER

Tax code ‘O’ for offender

With the Eurozone crisis refusing to abate, experts warn the worst may not be over

9 Online life

21 Quick business tips

What are you sharing online?

How to build teams that can execute

RX Plastics pioneering applications, reviving Lyttelton’s commercial heart and how Advanced Engineering makes the most of new opportunities

10 Gadgets

22 Lifestyles

82 Hospitality

Sweet sounds with a hot iPod speaker dock

Gadgets, destinations, fashion, furniture and more

The Volstead den of style, magic at the Maharajah, Coffee Worx, Passione, the Dux goes live, Kiwi Cuisine and the Famous Grouse Hotel

Rebecca Harris

OPERATIONS MANAGER Di Barclay

ADMINISTRATION Kylie Moore ADMIN MANAGER Kelly Clarke Kimberley Wells Judy Slater Tayla Brown

10 Events diary

SALES & ADVERTISING Steve Dando SALES EXECUTIVES Rob Cochrane George Ziegler Miranda Telfer Melissa Sinclair Kent Caddick Janet Campbell Janine Dovey Melissa Kala Evaon Watkins Mogens Petersen Danielle Olivier Grant Williams Rebecca Hummelstad Verne Williams

Courses, events and seminars near you

85 25

NEWSROOM Jonathon Taylor Corazon Miller Karen Pasco Marie Sherry Phone: Fax: Email:

114

Ian Knott PRODUCTION MANAGER Carolynne Brown PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR Sarah Pritchard DESIGNERS Jenna Day Jarred Shakespeare Janelle Pike 03 940 4732 0800 555 054 production@academy.net.nz

94 Initiatives

28 Simplifying small business tax

Environmental engineering at Apex, cutting commercial power costs with EECA and getting energy efficient with What Power Crisis?

The NZICA think tank’s plan to tackle taxation

Local hot spots to warm you up in the cold

PRODUCTION

Fax: Email:

A couple of high profilers muse about motivation

30 Winter warmers

EDITOR

03 961 5050 0800 555 054 editor@academy.net.nz

Phone:

25 Words of wisdom

70 Business development

32 The champions’ champion On the eve of his final Olympic mission, Dave Currie talks about the state of the Games and those who play them

35 All shook up?

Help is at hand for Canterbury businesses suffering from stress

99 Property & Construction B&D Doors, building education at Christchurch South Intermediate, Harcourts Holmwood, Harris Homes Fires, South Island Shortcrete, Hydra Heat and Keith Hay Homes

114 Agribusiness Fonterra delivers for Darfield as its new milk processing plant gears up for an August opening, and how Anderson & Rooney deliver dairy farm solutions

122 Transport and Motoring 125 Been seen People and faces in all the right places

Thrifty Car Rentals and McGirr Motors adapt to the new Christchurch

KNOWLEDGE FOR GROWING BUSINESS SINCE 1985

Disclaimer: This publication is provided on the basis that A-Mark Publishing is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services.

A-Mark Publishing expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2012 by A-Mark Publishing (NZ) Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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

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This publication is printed on papers supplied by

All wood originates from sustainably managed forests or waste sources.

All mills utilise the Chain of Custody system to verify fibre source. The end product is recyclable.

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Discover the Benefits of Coming Home to Concrete The Cement & Concrete Association of New Zealand (CCANZ) has launched the Coming Home to Concrete initiative.

Coming Home to Concrete illustrates how our residential building stock can be enhanced by using concrete to help provide comfortable, stylish and strong homes at affordable prices.

Central to Coming Home to Concrete is a short film (available on DVD and online) fronted by Kevin Milne that highlights the candid views of homeowners, architects and builders in relation to the attributes of concrete.

Typically the answers feature concrete’s ability, through heat retention, to assist in delivering a warm home.

This is closely followed by such properties as durability, seismic performance, fire resistance, acoustic insulation and the wide range of available decorative finishes.

Along with the short-film, the initiative provides readerfriendly print and web-based resources to help all those involved with residential construction make informed choices and optimise the potential of concrete and concrete products.

Visit www.cominghometoconcrete.co.nz to watch the short film and request a free information pack

Viewpoint | Editorial/Management

Getting back in black

Become a customer focused company Kevin Vincent is a director of business improvement consultants Vincent and Nugent Limited - www.vincentnugent.co.nz

By Jonathon Taylor, editor for Magazines Today

John Key’s fourth budget has, as budgets tend to do, drawn more than its fair share of criticism.

Political opponents rarely get better ammunition, served up on cue, than a government’s spreadsheet.

It’s the perfect opportunity to sink the boot in, decrying the lack of economic, social and moral nous the incumbent government’s numbers obviously represent.

But when it comes to this year’s little number cruncher, I think many may have protested too much, because the naysayers are ignoring how critical it is for New Zealand to get back in black.

The quest to balance the national books is, despite what the Government itself is saying, the prime motive behind this year’s budget. The plan is to return the national budget to surplus in 2014/15 and, when you look at how troublesome running massive deficits in less than predictable economic times is, then the theory is sound.

The debt level the US is now running is well into the realm of silly numbers.

Greece’s ability to turn a blind eye to the trouble it was creating for itself must now be the stuff of legends. But it’s alright – they’ve got lots of big, shiny, barely used stadia all over the shop; so plenty of places to run around in circles wondering where it all went so horribly wrong then.

In stark contrast, National’s 2012 budget verges on self-imposed austerity; banking for a rainy day opposed to a stimulus inducing cash injection. It is an entrenchment of the Government’s fiscal methodology. Ensuring net debt remains below 35 percent of GDP and any new spending being matched by a combination of saving and revenue initiatives.

One topic the critics have been a little hesitant to mention is our national credit rating.

Credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s, which cut our sovereign rating to AA last September, announced on the release of

the budget, that the rating would hold as long as the government continues to work towards a surplus.

Finance Minister Bill English stated that, “Returning to surplus is important because New Zealand is one of the most indebted countries in the world as measured by our net international investment position. We need to start rebuilding a buffer for when the next global crisis comes. Surpluses give us choices we simply don’t have while we’re running deficits.”

Speaking of running deficits and the next global crisis, the Eurozone’s credit crunch simply isn’t abating and the smart money is [or rather isn’t] on Greece being the first domino to fall.

So we sought a soothsayer in the form of visiting Canadian economic analyst Nicole Foss, who looks at the ingredients for a perfect economic storm.

Her premise and subsequent dire predictions have their root cause in one simple scenario – debt. Greece will be the first of the Euro zone dominos to default and fall, followed

by Portugal, Ireland, Spain and Italy with the potential for the rest of the Eurozone to follow.

Personally, I’m not so sure, but you can’t help but recognise the risk to any nation carrying crippling debt levels and this is why National’s belt tightening, to get us back in black within three years, is more than prudent, it’s vital.

Our cover features a man whose disposition is a tad more ‘glass half full’. Brent Mettrick talks about how he built his building business Stonewood Homes, what he believes is behind the rebuild’s slow progress and how we now need to construct homes quickly, without compromising quality.

And with London 2012 only weeks away, we sit down and chat to our champions’ champion; New Zealand Olympic Games chef de mission Dave Currie, on the eve of his final Olympic mission, about the state of the Games and those who play them.

There’s plenty here for all.

Enjoy.

Can you sell?

If so, we want you !

6 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

In order for organisations to excel, they must do more than simply satisfy their customers.

They must differentiate themselves and their employees in significant ways that add value to the “customer experience”.

They must provide service that is unique, faster, more reliable, more responsive, and more caring than ever before.

Organisations must: 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the customer’s needs and expectations, and…

2. Exceed the customer’s needs and expectations.

Customer service is everyone’s responsibility. The secret is simple - make it easy and pleasant for your customers to do business with you.

Customers are really everything. We all recognise the importance of the provision of best possible customer service and that adding value to the customer experience will enhance our chances of future growth.

Why then do we encounter and are subjected to shoddy, sloppy and thoroughly unprofessional service? When was the last time you felt neglected, frustrated and annoyed at the service you received? I expect it wasn’t that long ago.

Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the German (and then French) theologian, organist, philosopher, physician and medical missionary said, “I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve”.

Organisations must focus on customer service. It is true many companies have the same levels of technology, similar equipment and processes and that the only real opportunity to differentiate, or stand out from your competitors, is to provide better service and constantly seek ways to add additional value.

It is clear the company goals must focus on obtaining and retaining satisfied and loyal customers.

My tips for the provision of best service include: 1. Know your customer well. Understand their needs and your capabilities to meet those needs. Learn and understand their needs, wants, desires, issues and goals 2. Constantly seek ways to add value to the customer relationship 3. Listen to your customers. Listen to hear, listen to understand and listen to communicate your understanding.

Everyone loves a listener 4. Do the right things for your customer.

Be empathetic and see things from their perspective. Have a real integrity and strong values with your customer. Treat your customer as you would like to be treated 5. Provide best possible service to your internal customers. Try it, the results will delight. As we treat each other better so we will all play our part in the provision of best service to our external customers.

Customer service is contagious 6. Trust your customer and be trusted. It is the foundation of relationship.

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Viewpoints | Finance/IP

Savers and investors still getting it wrong

Dispelling urban myths around trademarks Angela Searle is a trademark attorney for Trade Mark Intelligence who works with both SMEs and global corporations

Alan Clarke is an authorised financial adviser with 24 years experience in the finance sector

It is well known, or should be, that successful savers and investors “buy in gloom and sell in boom”. Yet right now fear abounds, with too many Kiwisavers in cash funds and investors are scurrying to their banks, or sticking their money under the bedcovers.

The question is - why would you invest outside cash or banks? The answer is probably “needs must”. A conservative to balanced portfolio over time is likely to make two percent more per year than a deposit at a bank.

So $100,000 at two percent pa more than cash/bank equals $2,000 pa.

Not much?

What about $2,000 pa over 20 years equals $40,000 more than cash in a bank! Most people, especially when retired, need this extra return.

Some people prefer do-it-yourself, but research shows that DIY investors in the US from 1998 to 2008 made 3.9 percent pa, whereas holding the top 500 shares (the S&P 500) made nine percent pa (Dalbar Research). That’s right, by just holding the market, some investors made double what the active DIY investor made.

Research indicates that no one can consistently forecast markets, exchange rates, economic events, or pick shares/ stocks. There are plenty of people around who infer that they can, with glossy brochures and sometimes lots of (not so easy to see) fees.

and Italy have been able to borrow at lower interest rates than in late 2011, a sign that the big institutions and lenders think things are getting better.

In the US data shows signs of a turnaround with an improvement in employment, manufacturing orders and a climb in consumer confidence. In addition US companies and many others around the world reacted to the global credit crunch by cutting every cost they could. It is of course Europe that is scaring everyone. Will Europe solve its problems? The general consensus seems to be that Europe will muddle through.

Just as it would be wrong to assume all is now fine in the global economy, investors would have been just as wrong to listen to the media in December and January, and miss out on the good opening returns in 2012.

However a prudent person might say “I want to feel my way rather than jumping in” - fair comment.

There is a simple strategy that every investor can use - “dollar cost averaging”.

Invest progressively at say $200, $500, $5,000 per month, or $1,000, $5,000, $10,000 every three months. Lots of variations of this strategy can be used.

Every investor should, at the outset, establish his or her risk profile and then use an asset allocation (the proportions of bonds to shares) and stick to it. A conservative to balanced investor might be 60 percent in bonds and 40 percent in shares.

Summary • Most of us need a higher return from our money, and much more diversification too

2012 forecasts and reality

• Don’t wait for good times, and pay dearly.

Be prudent and “average in”

The general view expressed by the media in December and January was “buckle up, 2012 promises scant comfort for investors”.

Yet markets in 2012 opened strongly.

• Properly structured savings and investments can also double as emergency funds

Why such a good start? Europe can hardly be described as being out of the woods, but various creditor agreements over Greece has eased nerves. Recently Spain

• Beware of advice driven by commissions • Long term Kiwisaver members should look at moving to a growth or balanced portfolio.

Your trademark is potentially one of your most valuable business assets – the ability to use it, unimpeded, is something many of us take for granted. Yet, if you have not registered your trade mark – your brand name, then you leave yourself wide open for someone else to swipe it from underneath you. In this article I will shed light on some of the myths and misconceptions that exist around trademarks.

I have heard that you get rights to a trade mark through use – so why should I go to the effort of registering a trademark?

Yes, you do get rights to a trademark through use, if you can demonstrate that you have built a reputation under that name or mark. The question is – what is a reputation? How far does it extend? And how can you prove it? It’s a subjective argument and one that will cost you a huge amount of money to fight if someone else comes in and uses or registers a mark that is the same or similar.

For example, you could be a Christchurch company trading for many years, servicing the local community - if a Dunedin company started to use or registered the same trademark, they probably can, as your reputation probably is not a strong one in other parts of South Island. If you have registered your name, then you have a certificate proving your nationwide exclusivity to that mark.

Does a trademark registration allow me to stop someone using a similar trademark – or just the identical mark?

The answer is based around whether a consumer would be deceived or confused by the same or similar mark. Similarity comes in two guises – in simple terms, the first is around the marks’ visual, phonetic and conceptual similarity. The other is around the goods or services to which the marks are applied.

If another trader used a phonetically similar mark, then you probably would be able to stop them.

I own a successful bakery in a small community. I am the only one in town and I trade under the name ‘The Bakery’.

Can I trademark that name?

Every trademark must distinguish a service or product from those provided by other traders. Because the word bakery is a descriptive and generic term, you cannot register it and prevent others using it.

You also cannot register as a trademark a geographical location, common surnames or superlatives, such as beautiful, best or greatest. For example, you could not register Whangarei Bakery, Smiths’ Bakery or The Freshest Bakery.

To uniquely distinguish your product or service from others, invented words can be used or standard words that have no relationship to the goods or services. So in the example of the bakery, by adding an invented word into the title – let’s say Breagal Bakery, or ordinary words such as Blue Skies Bakery, you would then have a distinctive mark to register.

I can register a trademark myself – why would I use a lawyer?

Do you file your own tax returns? Would you write your own will? Registering a mark is the same. Yes you can do it, but it’s a case of you don’t know what you don’t know. If you get it wrong, you might not know until someone challenges you or tries to steal your mark out from under you…they might even succeed!

Many self-filers also go wrong by defining their goods/services too narrowly, therefore not allowing them scope to expand the breath of their goods or services being provided under their existing mark – or by filing an application to register a logo, whereas they would obtain much stronger protection if just the word mark was registered.

Registering your mark is like insurance – it protects your good name. The name you have worked hard to establish. A professional puts you in the strongest possible position, now and into the future.

Ph: 03 3813245

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 7

Viewpoints | HR

Daily planning made simple

Is your work-life balance in crisis?

Karen Degen is the owner of Set Free with EFT, a company that focuses on changing mindsets to create business success Email: karen@setfree.co.nz or visit www.setfree.co.nz

Robyn Pearce is a time management expert, helping people turn time challenges into high productivity and the life balance you desire.

Visit www.gettingagrip.com

Ask most people about how they manage their ‘to do’ lists and you’ll find that few use lists (if they have them), in a way that gets the best results. Most people begin with the easiest tasks. What this means is that, at the end of the day, they’ve run out of time for the big or more difficult jobs.

Why do people do it this way? ‘I like to cross things off,’ or ‘It gives a sense of satisfaction,’ or ‘I’m getting up momentum for the harder jobs’. The reasons are many.

The following very simple process has helped hundreds of thousands maintain focus and clarity.

1. At the beginning of the day (or the night before), make a list of everything you want to do, in no particular order.

2. Then identify the top five tasks. Number them one through five, wherever they are on the list. Don’t bother to number the rest - just the top five.

3. Start at number one. Don’t stop until you’ve finished, gone as far as you wish to go (you may have set a time limit), or as far as you’re able to go.

4. When interruptions come, as they always do, ask yourself, ‘Is this more important than the activity I’m working on?’ If not, add it to your list, put it out of eye-range so it doesn’t distract you and stay focused on the more important activity. However, if it is more important, put the other task aside, work on the new job, and when completed go back to your list (considered and thought about before the day started bossing you around!).

6. If there’s any day left once the top five and relevant queue jumpers have been handled, go back to the list and number off another five. This saves time at the beginning of the day prioritising things you may never get to.

Another approach you can use is that of Innis, a young manager, who uses time slots instead of sequential numbers. He achieves great results too. He says his planning methods used to be poor. “I kept everything in my head,” he says. “I’d change priorities and activities as I went. Consequently things got a bit out of hand.”

These days, at the beginning of the day, he writes everything down he wants to do, allocates specific times, and keeps the list nearby as a prompt. The big benefit is clarity.

It’s easy now to prepare. He’s on the road a lot, so now makes sure he has all the paperwork and gear he expects to need for the day. There’s no more chasing around for forgotten items.

The benefit is he’s got more time to get on with things. However, if he’s underestimated the time needed or something really urgent comes up from left field, he doesn’t get stressed. He knows he’s done the best he could.

This simple planning technique has changed his previously somewhat haphazard management into an effective and profitable method. Just a small amount of thought at the beginning of the day has generated huge benefits.

Keep your planning simple, but most importantly, do it every day.

5. Each time you move down the list, review it quickly. If something that’s jumped on the list is of higher priority than the activity you’d planned to do, give it lead position. The others won’t go away, but because they’re on the list instead of jostling for mind space you can keep them under tight rein - they won’t distract you.

A government study on work-life balance in New Zealand noted that most people got so caught up in the day-to-day details of living that their life got out of balance without them realising it.

It found that most people would not seriously address work-life imbalance issues until they were in a crisis situation.

1. Learning to put yourself first

The study noted that most employees felt some reticence raising work-life balance issues with their employer, because New Zealanders have a natural reserve and pride with regard to discussing personal issues.

Therefore, by the time stress is reported, the situation is already critical.

Those who don’t generally put themselves first often have the added problem of being unable to say “no”. Because of this they will take on more and more workload, whether in their employment or in their personal life.

They may feel resentful of this and may feel that they are being manipulated by others, but in actual fact it’s usually an inability to set appropriate boundaries, and to enforce them.

Under New Zealand law, employers have an obligation to prevent excessive stress that could cause harm. Prudent employers have work-life balance initiatives permanently in place.

Employees are not the only ones to benefit from these initiatives. The 2003 NZ Dept of Labour study titled ‘Perceptions and Attitudes Towards Work-Life Balance in New Zealand’ identified the key benefits to employers of implementation of work-life balance initiatives as:

Those who are the most stressed tend to be givers personality wise, and always putting others before themselves. In times of stress it’s essential to put yourself first and stop doing so much for other people. Unfortunately this type of person will have had a lifetime of being like this and it can be challenging to change without help. Professionals will look at the subconscious drivers for this behaviour.

Those who are under stress and don’t make this important life change may get worse.

2. Learn to say “no”

3. Ensure there is something you love or are passionate about in your life What enjoyment, fun, passion or interest do you have in your life? People who are stressed and trying to simplify their lives often make the mistake of dropping out their hobbies or interests. These are a vital part of our life and time must be made for these. Cut back somewhere else but don’t cut back on that which gives you pleasure.

4. Ensure you have ‘you’ time

• Retention of quality staff

• Happier workplaces

It’s vital to have time for yourself. Whether you want to spend that time getting exercise, relaxing and doing nothing, or treating yourself to something nice it’s essential for a well balanced life.

• More motivated staff

5. Add meaning to your life

• A closer relationship between staff and management.

An essential part of life is feeling that we are making a difference in the world, even if in a small way. We need to have meaning. Ask yourself what difference you make and if you can’t find an answer, look to add one. Do a little charity work, or contribute a little to your community, of just something that makes you feel good about yourself.

• Being able to attract quality staff • Higher productivity

Among other lifestyle changes, a professional will assist in modifying the following behaviours necessary for work life balance.

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8 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Viewpoints | Online/Society

What are you sharing online?

Graeme Russell runs Adage Business; a marketing and communications agency that assists with the planning and implementation of communication strategies. Visit www.adagebusiness.co.nz

People in business are still concerned about their employees’ use of social media. But this concern is not about their use of it as a business tool, but what they are sharing on personal social media sites.

For some, the main concern is what is said about the business, followed by who the business is seen to be connected to; then there’s the concern about their staff, particularly the ‘tagging’ of staff in photo’s that could be seen as inappropriate to the business and its customers.

Maybe we need to accept that a business has no real control, or even any right, to try and control the activities of their staff outside of the business environment. But it is a concern and how this can be dealt with will be an issue that will continue to raise its head. It is an issue that probably can’t be solved in a ‘one size fits all’ approach.

Some of the concern is that any online activity could hamper their (the company’s) reputation; a valid concern for some, but perhaps an over cautious worry for others but a concern nonetheless.

policy that may well have prevented this situation occurring in the first place, but they didn’t; they hadn’t seen any need to be mindful of what, where and how they were being portrayed by others.

There’s likely to be others still grappling with the challenge of how they are seen, how they can ‘educate’ their staff on being mindful of their personal activity without impinging on the individuals rights. What we should all be aware of - is that when we take to using social media we have to be mindful of what we’re saying, who we’re saying it to, and how far what we say and do can travel.

For example; when we post something on Facebook or Twitter it’s not just our immediate connections that may see it, but they have the opportunity to share it with their connections too, and those connections may in turn share it further.

What is said to one, 100, or 1,000 connections can easily and quickly be seen and shared with many thousands of others, who in all probability wouldn’t have the foresight to think about the implications of what is being shared.

Don’t hamper yours or your employee’s online activity, don’t even try – you likely won’t succeed, but do try and gain their There have been reports of one business understanding of the implications of the having spent considerable time and money on ‘wrong’ content being seen. lawyers to see what action they could take to You want your employees to buy-in to have images removed from the internet that breached not only the policies of the business, your activity and, remember they are ambassadors for your business, so do let but potentially also breached the privacy of the people in them. This activity had the them talk, chat and share. If they know the potential to cause substantial harm to the potential implications you will both feel business, and the time and resources spent more comfortable and will yourself be more having the images removed took them away inclined to truly adopt social media as part of from the core business activities. your communication processes.

A simple solution could have been to have had a sound social media / social networking

Just remember what’s said online – stays online.

Tax code “O” for offender

Rebecca Harris is the General Manager of the Academy Publishing Group.

It’s been reported recently organisations providing counseling to rape victims and their families are having difficulty dealing with the demand for services. The apparent rise in sexual assaults is driven mostly by an increasing number of people reporting family violence, and the increased national awareness of it being “ok” to speak up.

After an investigation into funding issues for sexual violence, ACC funding for victims was cut drastically in 2009. However, the need for counseling, education and awareness programmes, as well as emotional support for victims and families, no doubt extending to physical and financial support, has increased.

We have an offenders’ levy - a measly $50 automatic deduction that is required by law to be paid by anyone sentenced in the District or High Court. This levy is used to fund a range of new services for victims of serious crime and ensure that offenders contribute to addressing the harm that their crimes cause.

Fifty whole dollars – wow; that’s a deterrent!

This levy is clearly not cutting the mustard if organisations are still struggling. This prompted an idea; what about a new tax code of “O” for offender. The idea grows on you - not only can the funds from this new tax be used for rape victims, but all victims of all crime.

is not just a one off levy of $50, they are continually taxed. The question I ask is why not tax offenders to cover expenses incurred as well?

I’ve actually re-written the rest of this rant a number of times. Originally I had the idea of $1 a day tax for all offenders, but then there is petty crime at one end of the scale, and at the other end, the life sentences - these offenders would not have a taxable income for a number of years. The other problem I came across was the poor payroll team. In many work places there are bound to be a number of employees who the proposed tax code O will apply to – so how then do you stop the payroll team assuming all O’s are mass murderers, or violent rapists, when they could just be a petty criminal from way back?

I guess it’s just too hard, but we’re still left with victim related organisations scraping for funding and relying on the support of philanthropists or the uncertainty of government funds.

There is currently M, SL, ME, ML, SB, S, SH, ST, WT, CAE, EDW, NSW and STC (possibly others…) and combinations of the above. So I pose the question - why not chuck in O and use it for the specific purpose of supporting victims of offenders?

How would it work? I guess we’ll leave that to the government. Perhaps they could set up a sub-committee that can report to an executive committee, who then reports to the committee for… who knows what? I’ll leave that thought with you.

Tabacco products are taxed heavily to help cover expenses incurred by smokers. This

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 9

Viewpoints | Tech

News | Events Diary

Sweet Sounds

Events diary

SATURDAY, JUNE 30 Crusaders vs Hurricanes

What’s happening on the business and entertainment front Ian Knott has been commentating on various forms of technology for the last 16 years. He’s had columns on gadgets, gaming, computing and digital entertainment in many newspapers, magazines and websites in New Zealand and overseas.

The iPod speaker dock market is a saturated one to say the least.

A glance in any garden-variety electronics store will see a bevy of low-end speakers designed for teenager’s bedrooms and glorified alarm clock-radios for the bedsides of the more technologically savvy grown-ups among us.

The central gap also has a specific purpose apart from somewhere for your toddler to feed Matchbox cars and half-eaten biscuits.

It reduces interference between the left and right speakers, which in turn are covered by a standard black mesh. The front of the unit has proximity sensitive volume buttons that light up blue when a hand comes close to them and a spring-loaded, standard iPod connection. IPods or iPhones slot straight on to the connector, even with cases or bumpers attached, and will charge while playing your music.

But what about the higher-end of the market? I stop short of mentioning ‘audiophiles’ at this point, because a true ‘audiophile’ would shiver in their turtleneck sweater while hiding behind their purposebuilt rack system at the thought of listening to an MP3, let alone a speaker dock.

The DS9000 also accommodates iPads, and they look quite impressive, but attaching them isn’t an easy feat due to the curvature of the iPad’s edge where the charging port is. It takes a bit of patience to hold the spring-loaded connector forward while you slot the iPad onto it.

No, I’m talking about decent quality and stylish hardware that caters for those of us who love the convenience and portability of our digital music collection and want to utilise the content of our iDevice around home, for parties and chilling out on hazy Sunday mornings.

Philips might not be a brand that one might automatically gravitate to when it comes to audio equipment, but from a personal standpoint I can’t honestly say that I’ve ever had a Philips product break down on me or fail to live up to promises or expectations.

Philips has a new range of eye-catching (or should that be iCatching) speaker docks.

The big kahuna of the Philips Fidelio range is the DS9000 – and an impressive looking, and performing piece of kit it is too. The DS9000 is meant to be on display in your lounge – it’s a conversation starter, yet effortlessly blends in with any décor.

The smooth, wooden rear is made using a process called ‘veneer lamination’ which forms multiple layers of lacquered plywood together to produce a stiff and weighty structure, reducing any internal vibration.

The rounded shape also eliminates any internal sound reflection. Precisely tuned bass pipes at the rear deliver tight bass performance at any volume level.

While you don’t need it, there is a free downloadable app, DockStudio, which acts as an interface while your iDevice is attached. You can control your music and it will also display a clock and the local weather.

The DS9000 can envelop a room in balanced and detailed sound with impressive ease.

The high-grade passive crossovers between its dual 25mm tweeters and 100mm mid/ bass-drivers eliminate any distortion, even at organ-liquefying volume levels.

Strangely enough, the DS9000 does not support Bluetooth audio streaming like the other models in the Fidelio range, which seems out of place with the common ethos that the top-end product should include every possible feature. It’s not a dealbreaker though. The unit comes with a nicely crafted remote control that allows full control of any feature, but iPod Touches, iPhones and iPads will require the DockStudio app for this to work.

At $699.95, the DS9000 is up there in terms of luxury items, but as an alternative to an expensive component system and for pure convenience without sacrificing too much quality, this, along with the whole Fidelio range, is hard not to recommend.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 4 JUNE ONWARDS The historic Canterbury Club re-opening After 15 months of closure the Canterbury Club opened its doors to unveil an impressive post-earthquake restoration.

The reopening sees the club return to its full complement of services and facilities, including its dining facilities, function areas and gymnasium. For information about club membership contact gm@canterburyclub.co.nz

SUNDAY, JUNE 24 JD Duathlon - The Appetiser A range of race options for athletes of all levels from novice racers, to team runs, corporates, kids and serious athletes – come one come all for a day of running at the Ruapuna Speedway. For more information go to www.jdevents.co.nz

SUNDAY, JUNE 24 EasiYo Tactix vs Northern Mystics – Canterbury Arena Watch these two splendid netball teams in a fiery match at the CBS Canterbury Areana.

For more information go to www.tactix. org.nz

TUESDAY, JUNE 26 Introduction to the Exporting Process – Canterbury Employer’s Chamber of Commerce In order to be better prepared for the competitive export market – come to this workshop which focuses on familiarising the export process, terminology and how to minimise the risk involved in exporting. For more information go to www.cecc.org.nz or register at registrations@cecc.org.nz

TUESDAY, JUNE 26 Export Documentation – Canterbury Employer’s Chamber of Commerce This workshop gives you a comprehensive understanding of the requirements for export documentation so goods are not left unattended on the wharf or confiscated due to incorrect paperwork. It is a follow-on from the Introduction to Exporting workshop held the same morning. Participants who attend both will receive lunch and a discount of $60. For more information go to www.cecc.org.nz or register at registrations@cecc.org.nz

0800 777 444 | www.safebottles.co.nz | service@safebottles.co.nz 10 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Watch these two teams kick-off at Christchurch Stadium and revel in the fun of watching a game live. For more information go to www.crusaders.co.nz

Managing a 5S System in a Competitive Manufacturing Organisation – New Zealand Manufacturers and Exporters Association This workshop covers the skills needed for ensuring the smooth operation and continuous improvement of the 5S system in a plant or enterprise. This may be for an initial introduction of, or for the ongoing implementation and continuous improvement resulting from the 5S manufacturing process methodology. For more information go to www.nzmea.org.nz

TUESDAY, JULY 17 Creating a Business Plan – National Bank Business Resource Centre For business owners who want help with establishing or re-establishing a clear direction their business - this course is for you. It will teach you how to create that essential map to get you to your business destination by understanding what success means to you. For more information go to www.businessresourcecentre.co.nz

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 Business Ethics – National Bank Business Resource Centre This workshop serves to highlight how important it is for companies to address ethical issues and enforcing ethical standards in business. It will introduce the golden rule of ethical behaviour “treating others as you want to be treated”. For more information go to www.nzmea.org.nz

SATURDAY, AUGUST 4, 8 & 11 New Zealand Grand National Racing Carnival Watch top class racing feature spectacular jumpers as the Riccarton Park hosts the Aussie Browne’s Pharmacies Winter Cup, the HANZ Grand National Hurdles and the FMG Grand National Steeplechase. For more information go to www.racing.riccartonpark.co.nz

SUNDAY, AUGUST 5 Sunday Series; Bach & Brahms – Christchurch Symphony Orchestra Enjoy an evening of Bach and Brahms played

by Christchurch’s own symphony orchestra – sit and simply immerse yourself as the music elegantly swirls and eddies around you. For more information go to www.cso.co.nz

News | Property

Putting in the groundwork

Commercial property, the alternative to residential

I have always been surprised by how some people react when I suggest they should investigate commercial property investment because it provides a very a good alternative to residential investment.

It’s “too complicated” they say. Or “too hard to understand” is another common response, as well as fear of vacancies with a consequent loss of income.

Yes, I agree, residential property is the more “liquid” of the two forms of investment, but successful residential investment is, in my view, the hardest subject to master by a country mile.

We all know the advantages of residential property and they are persuasive, that has to be said, but let me give you some of the disadvantages — just for the sake of the argument.

The main problem with residential is that it’s “political” in every sense of the word. From one day to the next there is a steady drum beat criticising those who own or invest in residential property. The media run one story after another on overcrowding, shortage of rentals, rising rents, unfair profits and lately pressure to introduce a capital gains tax or reduce so-called “tax rorts”.

It’s no wonder that there is a growing rental crisis and increasing homelessness, all aided and abetted by the recent tax disadvantages which have, as expected, had the exact opposite effect from what was intended.

All this was predicted by me for over a year or more. And let me quietly tell you something else, in the strictest confidence. As the rental crisis grows, especially with the approach of winter, be prepared for more headlines and yet more controls on residential rents. You have been warned.

On the subject of capital gains tax, I have yet to see a skerrick of evidence showing what a capital gains tax would achieve. Yes, it does exist in other countries but such taxes did absolutely nothing to stop runaway property booms (and busts) in the USA, Europe or Australia, just to name a few.

In the news at present time, we learn about the troubles in Spain and Greece where the foreclosures (mortgagee sales in our parlance)

are staggering and getting worse by the minute.

Spain already has a capital gains tax. To call it complex is a gross understatement. Or how about Greece, where matters are just as bad? They too have a capital gains tax, but it will likely only create tax credits for years to come. The call for a capital gains tax in this country is supposedly to encourage investors to put their spare funds into “more productive investments”. But again, I am still waiting to hear what, exactly, these more productive assets are.

Another problem with residential property as a landlord is the bothersome control over the market by bureaucracy and the well meaning but cumbersome Tenancy Tribunal. I would be the first to agree that tenants need some form of protection, and we probably do need some form of third party control by way of a tribunal, but the system should allow tenants and landlords to agree to opt out of the system if both parties so choose.

Why should expensive homes, for instance, be subject to government control in regard to bonds or rents? Parties to high-end properties hardly need a government watch-dog to breathe down their necks. And what law applies in the case where a property is rented out fully-furnished as many are? The current bond limitation is totally inadequate to cover damage in this instance.

There’s no doubt that, if done correctly and with due diligence and forethought, residential investment can be very profitable mainly because it’s (supposedly) understandable, easy to finance with the aid of mortgages and is happily used by banks as security when advancing other loans especially for further residential investments or business use. But there are great advantages for those who make the effort to understand commercial property.

The upsides Commercial property has become far more popular in recent years and rightly so for the following reasons: (a) There are no controls from any outside body so long as parties act reasonably. (b) You can charge whatever rent and whatever terms you and your tenant mutually agree upon. (c ) You can ask for any bond you like — again as may be mutually agreed upon. (d) You can evict bad tenants rapidly under

Olly Newland

Property Consultant Impartial, expert guidance

For an obligation-free session with Olly, call: 0800 66 22 80

the terms of the lease with little or no outside interference. (e) The only control that exists is the lease that is agreed between you and the tenant and that can be varied as when it suits. (f) Depreciation allowances are often higher than on residential especially for fittings and fixtures.

Even more importantly, depending on the lease, your commercial tenant pays for all the out-goings as well, such as rates, water and insurance. Commonly these are spelt out in the lease (i.e. a net lease) but if not then these costs are built into the rent (i.e. a gross lease). Either way, the tenant pays, which makes your returns that much better.

A few years ago the traditional return on the average commercial property (whether retail, office or industrial) was around 10 percent.

For example a property valued at $500,000 would pay a net rental of $50,000 per annum after payment of all outgoings. Over the past few years this return has fallen dramatically, to as low as five percent plus. I suspect it will go even lower for prime properties in the future. In other words, lower and lower yields mean that investors are paying more and more to buy a certain income stream.

Where the net income is $50,000, investors could now well be prepared to pay almost twice as much as before, especially if the property was good. At a 5.5 percent yield the same property would be worth over $900,000.

By Olly Newland

These sales are further compelling evidence that prices have moved strongly upwards as compared with the more traditional values of a few years ago. They are a harbinger of things to come.

To me and others who follow the commercial market these results are truly astounding, but interestingly, so far there hasn’t been a peep about this in the media.

If residential sales results showed similar rises in values in today’s financial climate the headlines would be screaming and the calls would be coming in thick and fast to introduce new taxes and other “disincentives” (i.e. punishments) for investors who dare make such gains.

Interestingly, the prices obtained are not that far away from those achieved for average residential properties in the Auckland region (slum-boxes excepted), but as the subject is commercial, it has no sex appeal and it’s therefore not a headline grabber.

“Commercial Property Prices Rise Dramatically” will never be found on page three of any newspaper. That’s fine for us in the business, thank you very much. We prefer it that way actually.

There are more such deals out there just waiting to be found as many commercial property owners are still asleep at the wheel.

Before long investors will wake up to what is happening — so now is the time to start learning all about the subject.

Not a bad return if you play your cards right - and a darn sight easier than slogging away with a bunch of slum properties filled with druggies and misfits. The trick is to find commercial property which can genuinely be “improved” so that is goes up in value - no matter what inflation or deflation are doing.

A little study and perseverance can find these deals and often such value increases can be achieved in short order with little more than a stroke of a pen.

My team and I recently assisted a client buying a run-down block of shops. With a little expense, and our constant advice we pushed the value up from $1.4 million (being the purchase price) to an estimated value if $2 million - all done within six months from date of purchase and while collecting the rent at the same time. And just to prove the point that it wasn’t just wishful thinking on our part, this particular block was on-sold at auction for $1.95 million which was just a whisker under its estimated value.

If you are tired of the stress that residential tenants can give — not to mention poor returns, mounting repairs or vexatious complaints — then the commercial property market is just the right place for you.

You could become a part of this very fascinating multi-billion dollar investment niche — an area where big profits can be quietly made providing you know what you are looking for and obtain a good working knowledge in conjunction with impartial advice.

With more than 45 years in the property game, Olly Newland provides a consulting and mentoring service for people committed to make serious progress with property investments.

Whether it be buying, selling, holding or troubleshooting. If you’re interested in knowing more, visit Olly’s webpage at www.ollynewland.co.nz

Get skilled advice on residential and commercial property investment from Olly Newland, reknowned property expert, author & Authorised Financial Advisor.

Purchasing, selling & managing property.

‘No problems - only solutions.’

Personal, One-to-one, Confidential

www.ollynewland.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 11

Cover Story | Brent Mettrick

The

Mettrick

system

By Karen Pasco | Photos by Paul Terry

With the residential building industry taking a 15 percent plunge last year, a Canterbury-based home building company which managed 38 percent growth throughout New Zealand is obviously doing something remarkable. Stonewood Homes managing director Brent Mettrick explains what it takes to buck the trend.

“It’s not a construction business,” Mettrick announces part way through the interview.

“It’s a retail home business.” From this very statement you know this man is always looking at tackling business a different way.

In fact in every segment of his company, Mettrick is always looking to do things the smartest way possible often pushing convention aside in the process.

Looking at the building industry from a completely different perspective gives him the opportunity to deliver the service to his customers in a unique way. For instance, anyone building a house through his company can log onto Stonewood’s site during the process to see what is happening with their build; whether it be while waiting for building consent or part way through construction.

Wanting a totally transparent process for the client - Mettrick says they can even look at the building’s progress through up-to-date online photos, documentation and check out what it’s costing them.

It was an initiative introduced when Mettrick could see the gap between builder and client. “Builders aren’t always the best communicators, so we had to come up with a way that we could get the information to our customer that was better and more effective for them – and it’s instant.”

Stonewood Homes is New Zealand’s second largest residential building company, with aspirations on becoming first. Based in Christchurch, it has 23 franchises throughout New Zealand. The benefit to its franchise holders and customers is that there are skilled builders with local knowledge who have access to the plans, purchasing and back office systems of a national company.

“

It’s not about ego; it’s about ensuring every person who relies on us enjoys the experience and is not let down.

”

- Stonewood Homes managing director Brent Mettrick

The continual boom and bust nature of the building industry and the problems each end of the cycle poses made him realise it wasn’t really about the money – it was about getting things right and doing right by those who relied on him, whether they be contractors, family members or customers. “If you do what’s right the rest follows.”

He remembers clearly one occasion, when the enormity of his situation really sunk in. It was Christmas drinks in 2002, when an invitation was sent out to all those involved with the business. “In 2002 we had 120 houses in construction in Christchurch with four to five builders working on each, as well as suppliers He’s quite open about the time things haven’t and sub-contractors. There were hundreds and hundreds of people who turned up. It was gone so well. But he doesn’t make excuses. about that time it really sunk in to me the fear He puts things right, learns from what has of failure. Call it confidence or non-confidence happened and puts systems in place so they but it was about how many people relied on don’t happen again. “At those points we us for their income. I think I’ve got over that (Mettrick and former business partner Tony Andersen) had the chance to continue or scrap now especially given the size we have grown it, but we decided we had to go forward.” to around the country.”

12 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Cover Story | Brent Mettrick

“

Now the first thing I look at when I go on a building site is the skip – I can’t stand waste.

- Stonewood Homes managing director Brent Mettrick

He should have, his success, growth and dedication to the industry has been recognised through his involvement with both local and national industry bodies. He is Master Builders national past president, past president of Canterbury Registered Master Builders Association, and past chairman of Master Build Services Ltd (the Master Builders’ guarantee company) for more than eight years. He is also currently on the Department of Building and Construction Industry Productivity Partnership board; an inaugural and current director of the New Zealand Green Building Council; and sponsor of Homestar – the residential home energy rating tool.

The catalogue of industry positions has meant he has installed processes, drawn on specialist knowledge and hired expert people to give him enough confidence to step away from the day-to-day running and undertake other roles.

It hasn’t been that big of an issue for him. He has never felt like he was the business – it has always been a separate entity from him.

“I don’t know if that was because it was originally a partnership or why, but it means I can look at the business as an outsider with it not being so personal. It means you can have a really objective view.”

”

manufacturing industry to seek inspiration and direction from its streamlined processes.

This may eventually mean a turn to prefabrication so that a house is installed within a few weeks; with as much work as possible done away from the building site.

Mettrick’s goal is for a six week start-to-finish timeframe without forsaking quality, and although some way off from that at present, he does confess; “if you don’t have that goal, there is no way you can achieve it”.

The rebuild An incentive for this way of looking to manufacture homes in a quick turnaround, while still maintaining quality, is the Christchurch rebuild. The rebuild has been held up for a number of reasons, he says.

job ahead. This has involved a look at back office systems, employing people and training them, in order that everything is in place so Stonewood can hit the ground running.

For Mettrick, a grave concern is that many businesses will not prepare enough – which could lead to delays for homeowners. “A lot of companies here are going to be at capacity, but they don’t have the systems to be able to take that. The availability of sub trades is also going to be an issue.”

now has been a natural progression. Although not surprised with where the business is at, it is not really the result of a rigid, laid-out plan that has seen him get to his current destination. It is more the dedication of doing things right which has resulted in its success and always with the motivation to do the best for his family.

“They have always been my motivation. I want the business to be the best it can for a lot of reasons. Having invested 25 years into He has never been a builder, but has 35 years the business to date, I want it to become the best it can be. It’s not about ego; it’s about experience in the residential construction ensuring every person who relies on us enjoys industry – 25 of those at the helm of Stonewood. The excursion to where Mettrick is the experience and is not let down.”

“The one (earthquake) at Christmas (2011) had more impact than people realised; it put things right back again.”

There is also a lack of consistency from both insurance companies and other agencies. “We would find we had several people with the same issues, but they were all being given different information.” Mettrick has done his part to try and keep the process moving. He sent a broker to London after the worst of the quakes to secure building insurance so that all his booked builds could continue.

His attention to the Stonewood business is more in research and development. Lined up against the wall of his office are an array of building, home design and architecture magazines from all around the globe. These publications, as well as overseas travel to While others are frustrated by the delays, research new technologies, provide inspiration Mettrick has been using it to his advantage, for Mettrick who is constantly looking for new employing this time to gear up for the long and innovative ways to make homes better.

It is a rewarding experience as he passes on those efficiencies in processes and technology Brent Mettrick outside the Stonewood Showhome at 47 Waterloo Road incorporated in to his homes.

Canterbury Showhome

The latest Stonewood show home at Lincoln is progression in the process. It is a 7-star Homestar home – kitted out with thermal efficient technologies, extra insulation, rain harvesting and storage as well as other innovations to make it a comfortable home that is more cost effective to run.

Although you would hardly declare Mettrick to be of the hippy brigade, his belief in “green systems” is really to create a better home environment but they have to prove their value. “Green has to be sustainable from a dollar perspective as well. To me it’s got to pay its way.”

Encouragement from an unlikely source, his daughter, who gave him a bit of grief about the wastage on building sites, has also brought about changes. There is far less rubbish being taken away from sites. “Now the first thing I look at when I go on a building site is the skip – I can’t stand waste.”

He explains that the New Zealand building industry is conservative. So Mettrick looks at inspiration, not only from overseas but also outside the building industry. That is how he has come to look at his as a retail business and has also searched further afield to the www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 13

News | Quick Questions

Quick questions

about online retail

Lucy Arnold

The internet age is truly upon us. Booking a flight, buying tickets to a show, checking the bus timetable, communicating with overseas friends… it’s hard to imagine all those things were once done in person, on the phone, or even (hilariously) by letter.

The internet age has even permeated the shopping world. It seems unlikely people would buy items like clothes and shoes online, but figures show online shopping has been sky-rocketing.

In fact, some retailers exist entirely in cyberspace –no shop, no browsing, no sales assistants. New Zealand business www.felt.co.nz is one of them. It’s an easy to navigate website which sells handmade crafts. Paintings, necklaces, toys, there’s a veritable host of items for sale made by sellers from around the country that can be purchased at the click of a button. Bridget Gourlay talks to founder Lucy Arnold about the concept.

When did you start up Felt?

I began it in 2007. There was a site called etsy.com in America, which started the year before I did, and I was selling on it. It wasn’t really set up well for New Zealand sellers and I saw that New Zealand could benefit from something similar to it. I guess it’s like eBay and Trade Me. I found other people to list their crafts on Felt by just talking to people at crafts markets, looking online and going through craft blogs. It was just a matter of finding people and emailing them.

How successful has Felt been over the last five years– have you been getting good sales?

We’ve doubled in size every year. I wouldn’t want it to grow any faster than that as that would get unmanageable!

How exactly does it work? How do you make a cut of it?

It works like Trade Me. Sellers have a pre-paid account and Felt gets a fee every time they make a sale, plus a five percent commission which gets deducted from their pre-paid account. I don’t really sell anything myself on there any more – I’m too busy running it!

That must make it easy for both Felt and a seller to test the waters.

Yes. We’ve got 2500 sellers. Some sell a lot, but they usually have their own websites and are at craft stalls, sell into shops and galleries, sell on Trade Me and Etsy as well. Others are medium sized and some are just getting started. Felt is just a tool really.

Do you think there’s a growing market for NZ-made things?

People are recognising, especially with the recession, that it’s important to support local people - its money going back to our economy. There’s been a backlash against the global brands, buying local is bringing a human link to shopping, and with Felt people do like a direct contact with the seller.

With the online aspect - are people prepared to buy things they haven’t seen/ touched?

There is some hesitation still. New Zealand lags behind the rest of the world in online shopping. Hesitation depends on the product, some sell really well such as jewellery. It’s easy to see what it looks like, but clothes are much harder, people want to try those on.

People are becoming more savvy, both the buyers and the sellers – buyers know what websites to trust - the internet isn’t seen as a dodgy thing anymore.

How do you advertise?

My advertising is largely done through Facebook and Twitter – I’ve got a lot of followers. Firstly I just advertised to the crafts community because I needed sellers, but now Felt is really well known in the crafts community – it’s a household name. I’m now focusing on making it more mainstream.

I have started to buy some ads in niche magazines that target my core market – women, aged 20-40 who are mums and/ or professionals. We are at craft markets and things like the Women’s Expo. But largely sales come from word of mouth.

Are there just New Zealand sellers?

What advice would you give someone starting up their own online shopping business?

I’d say 95 percent of my sellers are New Zealand-based, but there are a few from overseas such as Australia.

Don’t expect to make money really fast! It’s quick to get a business up and going online but it takes time for the profits to come in.

14 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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News | Housing

Getting ready for the rebuild working out worker accommodation

By Corazon Miller

Two Christchurch women have laid down the ground work for a solution to the city’s looming accommodation crisis. The shaken city’s earthquakes have, among other problems, created a rental shortage crisis, a situation which will only get worse as large numbers of contractors come to Christchurch to assist with the rebuild.

Jackie Thomas and Lesley Fulton

Jackie Thomas, along with her business partner Lesley Fulton, foresaw the need for a solution to the crisis – and so ContractAccom was born – to fill the gap in the market.

Together they have established a network of providers who are willing to offer up a room, or two, a bed, meals and a homey environment. “We have an extensive network of homes available that have a warm and welcoming vibe,” she says.

Versatile homes

Call-to-action However, like all start-ups these things take time. Jackie says it’s been a slow start – but not for lack of interest. It’s simply because the rebuild is taking its time to reach full swing.

They are confident large numbers of contractors will be arriving - and when they do, they will need a place to stay. “There is an interest in our service,” she says.

Which is where ContractAccom steps in providing something to suit anyone’s needs, from the nice small room to a large ensuite and personal lounge – there is something for everyone across a range of price brackets.

“We work to cater for all needs,” Jackie says.

“We meet with people or families who want to provide a home and ensure they are all up to scratch.”

Jackie also points out that many of the Christchurch rebuilders will be here just for the rebuild. They may be here for three weeks or they may be here for a year. Whatever their case may be, one thing is certain, they will need a bed at night. “While a hostel may be great for 20+ year-olds backpacking through Europe, it’s just not ideal after a day of hard labour.”

Many of those offering up their homes often see it as a chance to do their bit for the rebuild. As Jackie pointed out not everyone can plaster or patch up buildings, but they can offer a bed, food and a home. “We have a mammoth task ahead of us to rebuild Christchurch with our huge infrastructure; this is one way we can help those doing the hard yards”.

What ContractAccom offers is a “one-stopshop” that provides a more comfortable home away from home taking away all the domestic worries that comes with renting a property. “It’s a homestay-style bed and breakfast, with everything taken care of.”

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“It won’t get easier to find a place to stay.”

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At a glance | Sydenham

Restyle, revamp, rebrand -

Sydenham

By Karen Pasco

If you’ve driven past Sydenham lately you’ll have noticed a change. There’s a new vibrancy and life to the area with new and revitalised retailers, offices and more people enjoying the perked up suburb. What was once a bit of a tired and belittled part of town has been transformed.

It was hit hard in the earthquakes losing some of its iconic heritage buildings and suffered from the shut down of footpaths and roads in the area. Although some of the heritage of the past is now gone, new life is being injected into the area with relocated companies moving into the freshly revamped zone.

Now Sydenham is looking to reinvent itself with a complete rebrand to reflect the alteration the area has undergone.

Sydenham Community and Business district chairman and Honeypot Café owner Rob Gould said the rebrand gives the retailers and businesses a chance to re-educate the public about the change.

“We’re wanting to change the perception of Sydenham. It used to have an image of being a not very desirable place – a place people

would drive through as quickly as possible on their way to the CBD. But it has changed.

There are new businesses, new buildings… and not withstanding the revamp of the mall – as well there’s art work around,” Rob says.

Already the place has picked up considerably; “You only have to try and get a car park at The Colombo to know – that says it all really,” he says. But there is a definite need to attract those from further afield who may have lost the love a little – when it comes to Sydenham.

Facts about Sydenham • Sydenham was originally part of William Sefton Moorhouse’s farm Spreydon which was subdivided into 50 acre rural lots • It’s earliest settlers in the 1860s were Lancashire immigrants, labourers or small scale tradesmen who worked in the city • It was rejected as a part of the Christchurch City Council in 1876 so formed its own borough • The Sydenham Borough motto was “Deeds not Words” • The Borough of Sydenham was almalgamated with the city in 1903.

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Issue | Automatic Earth

The

perfect storm

The turbulent waters of the 2008 recession seem to be calming, there is optimism in the air that maybe, just maybe, things are getting back to normal. Yet as the Eurozone crisis continues to breach the otherwise calming surface, experts warn the worst may not be over.

Weather warning

A sign of things to come

She describes herself as a roving gypsy, travelling the globe – giving the unaware a heads up about the economic, environmental and energy “perfect storm” coming our way.

The Canadian “gypsy” and economic analyst, Nicole Foss, on a recent visit to New Zealand, labelled the financial crisis as a perfect storm, with its complex financial fronts that have converged into today’s present crisis.

Nicole takes it one-step further saying Europe is just the sign of worse things on the horizon. It’s the tip of the iceberg and the globe is perched precariously on the edge, about to fall into a deep dark depression that will be worse and longer lasting than that of the 1930s.

The European Union (EU) is at risk of being engulfed by the storm, as factors including international trade imbalances, high public and private debt, big real-estate bubbles, slow economic growth, governmental monetary policies and the early 2000s easy credit conditions, encouraged high-risk lending.

Media across the globe have quoted experts saying the crisis is at a boiling point and once it overflows the implications will be felt globally – the governments of Greece, Italy, Ireland, Portugal and Spain with their huge debt to GDP ratio and huge budgetary deficits are struggling to repay debts and may be left in the dust by the richer nations such as France and Germany.

Though recent reports from International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Christine Lagarde reported a positive outlook for the economy, Nicole claims such optimism will be shortlived.

On her recent visit to New Zealand, she stated it is a question of when, not if, the Euro falls. Greece will be the first of the Eurozone dominos to fall and default, followed by Portugal, Ireland, Spain and Italy with the potential for the rest of the Eurozone to follow.

She says when the Euro falls, the face of international relations as we see it will change forever. Nicole claims we are heading into an era of de-globalisation; as the economy fails things will no longer work on a large level, but on a small community level.

By Corazon Miller

Not crazy talk

Economic denial

Though Nicole aka Stoneleigh resembles somewhat the gypsy part she plays, with her stark blond windswept bob, flowing skirts and warm capes, this down to earth woman’s claims are not just wildly plucked out of the dark recesses of her mind.

Nicole says the governments have been papering over the cracks in the economic system for sometime now. “They are using public dollars to fill the gap between the buyer and the supplier, increasing the monetary value [for example the Greek government bonds] but in reality it is all fiction.”

Rather, they originate from an impressive list of qualifications; a degree in biology, focusing on neuroscience and psychology, a postgraduate diploma in air and water pollution control and a Masters in International Law development – there appears to be a reasonably broad knowledge base behind her speculative suspicions.

Other experts have also backed up her not-so-wild claims. The BBC’s Russel Hotten reported in 2011 that experts have long predicted the Euro’s demise. He quoted the British Labour Party MP Jack Straw who warned the United Kingdom to prepare for the Euro’s slow death.

Nicole and her travelling partner Raul “Ilargi” Meijer, first began their campaign to raise the awareness of the economic, environmental and energy storm through their website, which began in 2008, called The Automatic Earth. Two years later Nicole and Raul decided to take their work onto the road.

“There is no substitute about being there in person to motivate people to change, face to face enables us to find more opportunities,” she says. When challenged about the environmental cost of riding on so many planes, she laughs saying “you can’t tell me any one of those planes wouldn’t have taken off without me”.

In fact the cost of making and distributing a DVD would cost just as much – if not more – and would most likely be less effective. “We are able to tailor our presentations to match the local circumstances and help people identify to our message.”

The naked emperor “I prefer to warn people,” Nicole says.

“Our focus is not academics, rather we are interpreting complexity so anyone can understand it.”

She says at present it’s like the story of the emperor with no clothes. Everyone knows it, but no-one is willing to acknowledge it until the little boy points it out. “We are that little boy,” she says. “Not just to tell people there’s a problem, but to get people prepared.”

She highlights how Greece is now worth so much less than all the public dollars that have gone into saving it, “But people aren’t being made aware”.

Travelling partner Raul chips in saying there was one point when Greece’s interest rates were up to 400 percent. Nicole says this compounds the problem, as rising interest rates increase the risk of default, the very thing the Eurozone is battling against. This risk of default in turn raises interest rates, which in turn increases the risk of default.

“It is all a spiral of fear, which is quickly spiralling contagion throughout all of Europe.”

The first domino - Greece Greece is the predominant face of the crisis.

Many experts are saying despite its two bailouts – a combined €240bn from the EU and IMF – it may still default.

The weight of its debt may simply make it impossible for the country to grow economically, causing Greece to default from the Euro, sending the financial markets into turmoil as they try to cope with the new unchartered territory – no-one has left the Euro before.

It is certainly a terrifying situation. Nicole points out if Greece does default it will shut itself out from the world with a worthless currency, unable to trade in or out of the country.

The exact value of the Drachma will be unknown. “Its currency won’t be able to buy a single unit,” she says “You can’t do business outside of the country if your currency is not worth anything. It will end up in a civil war, there will be no jobs and there will be no money.”

And once Greece defaults, the other dominos - Portugal, Ireland, Spain and Italy won’t be far behind. The BBC’s Hutton backs Nicole’s claims saying the financial markets would take a dim view on the default and refuse to lend to Athens for years. It’s a precarious situation, one which Greece and the EU are understandably trying their best to avoid.

Continued on page 20 >

18 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Issue | Automatic Earth Continued from page 18 >

However, economist Mark Weisbrot says despite everyone’s dire predictions, some good could come out of a default. He says people should look to Argentina. The nation defaulted from the dollar in the early 2000s and has economically blossomed in the years since – thanks to being free from monetary policies stifling its growth – Greece could yet do the same.

The domino effect Nicole says despite Greece taking up most of centre stage, Portugal and Ireland are not far behind – they are kept alive only by the EU and its banks who are desperately trying to save face.

Despite the second bailout, market confidence in the struggling Eurozone remains fragile, long term prospects appear weaker, influenced by an ageing population and economic restrictions. A virtual economic standstill is predicted, with weakened banks, high unemployment and low growth – not just for Europe but all across the globe.

“The Euro as a common currency is dying, we are likely to see countries defaulting, the collapse of a single currency within the year is a likelihood. When it does fall the impact will be monumental, it is not clear how quickly the dominoes will fall – but one thing is certain shockwaves will be felt throughout the world.”

The shockwaves The Euro is one of the currencies which dominate trading relationships, once that is gone, Nicole says no-one will have any idea of what their currency is worth or how to do business with it.

“Once the Euro dies, so too will numerous trade relations, the economy will freeze, trade-relationships break down as the level of trust disappears, trade wars will occur, credit ratings will go down – or even worse won’t exist.”

She says there is no room for complacency – the shockwaves will come and when they do they will be huge.

Globalistion is at its peak, few corners of the world are unreachable, but it all comes at a cost as already people are feeling the crunch of the Eurozone crisis.

People have watched in bated breath for Greece to be saved, not for altruistic reasons, but out of fear. John Baylis in his 2011 edition of World Politics: An Introduction to Globalisation, summarises it in one succinct sentence; “The pace of economic transformation is so great a new world politics has been created, states are no longer closed, the world is more interdependent with trade and finances ever expanding.”

If Greece had defaulted, this interdependency would have meant all would have felt the cost of the default – not just Greece – as financial markets and governments tighten their hold on their wallets in response.

As the financial crisis hits its peak it is the essentials which will become the least affordable, as they are in high demand.

Affordability is what is important, Nicole says.

“It can cost $10,000 for a cup of coffee, but if everyone is a billionaire it doesn’t matter.

It can cost five cents for a cup of coffee but if no-one has five cents it doesn’t work.”

She points out even countries that currently appear well-off such as the Netherlands and Germany will not be safe. She illustrates the case of the Netherlands. Its bank holds 150

percent of the GDP, when the bank goes it will be too big for anyone to bail out.

In addition it has a huge housing bubble; no-one is paying off mortgages, real-estate debt is blowing out of control. Once this pops people will lose the value of their property, and since no-one has money, no-one will be able to buy homes at the value they are worth.

On our shores Nicole, who is Canadian-born, says she admires the strength of character New Zealand has a nation and as people. She says we appear to have an understanding that bad things can happen to good people.

In less than two years we were hit by the Pike River Mine disaster and shaken by the Christchurch earthquakes – yet we as a nation show resilience and tackle things as they come.

Our overall picture, though not on the edge of the cliff like Greece, is still not flash.

Auckland is the sixth least affordable place in the world for the housing market compared with income. There is a huge housing bubble waiting to burst. People are in debt – thanks to the relatively low interest rates which have trapped people into big mortgages, remortgages and loans.

Nicole prophesises when the economic depression really hits, the breakdown in trade relationships will hurt New Zealand.

“As a nation you rely heavily on trade. New Zealand imports 97 percent of its oil, it is virtually totally dependant on the outside for oil.”

In addition, New Zealand has a “huge moat” cutting it off from the rest of the world.

“Isolation creates an exaggerated period of boom and bust,” Nicole says. New Zealand may suffer more but recover quicker.

Another big problem is many of our banks are foreign-owned, so when the international banking system breaks up, we will be exposed to the risks associated with Europe and Australia, adding risks to our already local risk.

“New Zealand’s banking system can expect some disruption – so be prepared and do what you can to fix it.”

But on the plus side, New Zealand also has a more robust power system, and covers a land mass that is not overpopulated. It has good soil and good rain, all that we need to do now is learn how to live with the resources that we do have.

Never too early It’s never too early to prepare. If you don’t, Nicole says, “it’s like the rug will have been pulled out from under your feet”.

Though no-one can predict exactly when the system will go belly–up it is still important to prepare, because as the near-complete financial crash in 2008 showed, it can happen in one night.

“The Euro will die,” Nicole says, “In a year or two at the most. Credit will get tighter, we won’t be able to get the same credit for homes, it will become harder to borrow dollars – it could happen this year or the next - we simply don’t know." What is known, is there is a general risk out there – but once it does happen it will take some time to get out of it.

20 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Action plan Nicole says there are three key things that can carry you over the financial hurdle.

1. Get out of debt Burgeoning debt is compounding the financial crisis.

How can we do this? Firstly try not to get into huge debt in the first place Nicole says. But if you’re already in debt – get rid of it. One idealistic, perhaps not realistic, idea is to use the wealth and pool it across the generations. “The older generation has a significant amount of savings sitting in the grip of the system, they could come together as a family and decide to wipe off everyone’s debt."

2. Hold liquid cash Because the banks are at risk of a systemic failure, it is important to have cash on hand.

“When the bank closes its doors people will go hungry – the money will go. Having a certain percentage of something is better than 100 percent of nothing.”

3. Gain control over your own existence It seems to be a monumental ask, considering many of us are unsure of what we are doing next week. But Nicole says it’s simple. Have supplies of water, be dependant on yourself as much as possible and look to the local community.”

It’s simple (if not entirely practical for all city dwellers) advice – not just for the potential economic wobbles, but for any disaster, be they earthquakes, floods or storms.

In the next issue of Canterbury Today we take on peak oil.

News | Top Tips

How to build teams that Stephen Lynch, chief operating officer of can execute ByGlobal Operations at RESULTS.com

How to prevent your company growth from stalling

team members need to be encouraged Interesting research conducted by MIT measured the key factors that to have their say and feel like they were listened to in order to build a high trust, high are common to great teams - those performing team. which function effectively and achieve business execution success. Great teams have frequent

It is common for firms of all sizes to reach a plateau where revenue growth seems to stall. This growth tip references research contained in the book Stall Points.

Interestingly, the notion that you need to recruit the smartest people you can find, and assemble them into a team, matters much less than you think.

Political and Economic factors beyond our direct control have an impact on company growth of course, but surprisingly the research shows that 87 percent of growth stalls are preventable, and are related to the strategic decisions you made in the past.

informal communication too

Here is our take on the research:

Great teams communicate frequently The more frequently a team communicates, the more successful the team is likely to be. A lower frequency of communication leads to a decline in performance. This has implications for office layout and design, as well as your meeting cadence. For virtual teams, there needs to be a way for team members to quickly and easily share information with their colleagues - business execution software makes this easy.

Great teams talk and listen Lower performing teams have dominant members who do most of the talking (but who are not so good at listening). Open twoway communication is important for superior performance. Less dominant, introverted

The best teams spend a lot of time discussing ideas outside of formal meetings.

Therefore it is important to create as many opportunities as you can for these “water cooler” chats. The more frequently this informal communication occurs, the better the team performs.

Great teams seek outside information.

The tendency for “group think” (where everyone thinks the same) is a trap to be guarded against. The best teams frequently connect with many different outside sources and bring what they learn back to the team for debate.

In summary, it seems that more communication is better (daily meetings), we need to ask everyone’s opinion (and learn to listen better), create more opportunities for informal discussions (when was the last time you took your team out for lunch?), and get out of the office more to expose ourselves to new ideas.

It is critical to measure the Key Performance Indicators that drive your current business model on a weekly and monthly basis.

However, these metrics may not register that a significant change is occurring in your industry.

If you are not vigilant about industry changes and do not take corrective action quickly, it can be extremely difficult to kick start things to get your company growing again. In fact, the research shows that the odds are against you ever returning to growth.

Most growth stalls occur because a strategic assumption that was once true, no longer applies to your business model. In fact, it is the assumptions that you hold most deeply – or have “known” so long that you no longer question them – that pose the greatest threat to your long-term growth and survival.

The tendency to cling to obsolete or incorrect ideas has been characterised as “groupthink”.

Typically the large incumbent company has enjoyed a long run of success with their existing business model. The leaders become closed-minded; there is peer pressure toward uniformity. Leaders overestimate their abilities based on their past success. They fail to consider alternatives, and filter out new information that does not match their existing view of the world.

They keep expanding the features of their current offerings, adding more costs, rather than more revenues. They become bloated and unfocussed. They fail to realise their customers are increasingly attracted to new entrants, with disruptive new business models. They mistakenly think their brand name will protect them from these “inferior” competitors. This classic trap is called the “Innovator’s Dilemma”.

Industry change comes at you quicker than you think, and leaders have to be faster at responding. Questioning your strategic assumptions on a regular basis is critical, but seldom something that leaders do well (if at all). Every month we read about the death and decline of well-known brands who failed to adapt to new entrant upstarts with new business models.

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News | Lifestyles

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Just an hour north out of town is a range of stunning jungle, waterfalls and wild rivers, Doi Chiang Dao national park, the Maetang River area and many other natural beauties. To the South West of Chaing Mai lies the Doi Intanon, the country’s tallest mountain with numerous waterfalls and jungle trails. It promises to be an adventure of a lifetime – just watch out for wild elephants and snakes.

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News | Words of wisdom

wisdom

Words of

By Karen Pasco

I remember some of the best advice I was ever given was from my sister.

I was about 28 years old, working in a job I didn’t particularly like and moaning to her about my situation. Her reply has had an ongoing impact.

“You have two choices; either you stay in your present career for the next 40 years and remain miserable, or you change it. Only you can change it.”

For someone who was only 20 years old herself at the time, the words were quite wise. It led me to where I am today and I have always appreciated how those words impacted at such a crucial time of my life.

There are other times in life when I have reflected on that very same conversation and recalled those sensible words. Whether it be relationships, other jobs or even after falling into a pattern of mediocrity, I have plucked those words from my memory banks and used them as a mantra “only you can change it” to modify my life or behaviours.

We have gathered together bits of advice that others have found poignant. Whether they are deep and philosophical or quite matter-of-fact, these words of wisdom have provided inspiration to those who received it and often influenced them in decisions they have made.

John Pasthas

John Psathas John Psathas is one of New Zealand’s most internationally acclaimed composers, born in New Zealand to Greek immigrants in the mid 1960s. To date, his most notable accomplishment in the field of music was to write much of the ceremonial music for the opening and closing ceremonies of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games.

“I knew from a very young age (11 years) that I would be pursuing a career that put me in the public eye and, all things going well, would result in my being well-known.

This piece of advice profoundly influenced how I went about achieving my dream of becoming a successful composer. All of my adult decision-making has been shaped by considering that one piece of advice.”

One of the best pieces of advice he received was from his father Emmanuel Psathas. It was given to him constantly throughout his teenage years and still remains advice he reflects on.

He has shared this advice with others as well as the following which obviously impacts on the students he teaches.

“However successful, famous, or rich you become, it counts for nothing if you are not a fundamentally good person.”

“Don’t allow anyone but you to decide whether you pursue your dream.”

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 25

News | Words of wisdom

Mai Chen Mai Chen is the founding partner of Chen Palmer, chair of New Zealand Global Women, president of the Harvard Law School Alumni Association (NZ), on lists of the most influential businesswomen in the country and writer of recently-published book Public Law Tool Box .

She has three pieces of advice that have stood her in good stead in her work and personal life.

Other words of wisdom we like:

“The golden rule for every business man is this: “Put yourself in your customer’s place.”

Orison Swett Marden

“Do or do not. There is no try.”

“Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning.”

Yoda

Bill Gates

Mai Chen

“The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the Winston Churchill efficiency. The second is that automation applied to an inefficient operation will “Leadership has a harder job to do than just magnify the inefficiency.” choose sides. It must bring sides together.”

Bill Gates Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson “Sometimes when you innovate, you make “A revolutionary idea is usually one with its mistakes. It is best to admit them quickly sleeves rolled up.” and get on with improving your other innovations.”

Former Indian batsman, commentator and politian, Navjot Sidhu Steve Jobs

General Colin Powell’s rules of engagement:

“As a small businessperson, you have no greater leverage than the truth.”

“A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts.”

John Greenleaf Whittier

Richard Branson

“A business absolutely devoted to service will have only one worry about profits.

They will be embarrassingly large.”

“The conventional definition of management is getting work done through people, but real management is developing people through work.”

Henry Ford

Agha Hasan Abedi

“There is no such thing as work-life balance.”

“In the end, did you live life to the full, did you love deeply and did you learn truly to let go.”

“Your life is your message, get on and live it.”

1. It ain’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning

7. You can’t make someone else’s choices.

You shouldn’t let someone else make yours

2. Get mad, then get over it

8. Check small things

3. Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it

9. Share credit

4. It can be done!

11. Have a vision. Be demanding

5. Be careful what you choose. You may get it

12. Don’t take counsel of your fears or naysayers

6.Don’t let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision

13. Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.

10. Remain calm. Be kind

“If you have knowledge, let others light their candles with it.”

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News | Simplifying tax

Simplifying small business tax The New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants (NZICA) has released the second instalment of its thought leadership paper on ways to simplify taxation for New Zealand’s thousands of small businesses.

The intention is to raise awareness and promote debate on a fresh approach to tackling the ongoing issue of tax compliance for our many small businesses. The NZICA’s view is that a simplification of rules would create an environment that is more conducive to business growth and productivity.

The paper was written by the NZICA’s tax team and the NZICA Tax Advisory Group.

Summary of proposals

percent for businesses that trade in goods (such as retailers) will be paid on business turnover.

• Tax payments will be made monthly or at any time.

• No filing of returns.

• The micro tax of 14 percent and seven percent includes a component for Accident Compensation Corporation levies.

• Income for the purposes of social policy commitments (child support, student loans and working for families tax credits) is 50 percent of gross income.

• The income will be transferred to the taxpayer’s summary of earnings and no further income tax on this business income will be payable.

For further information visit www.nzica.com

Flexibility boosts productivity Flexible working is directly linked to productivity and increased revenue

Small business tax • A business with turnover of $600,000, GST registered and may have employees.

• Income tax will be calculated on a cash basis on the GST return and will be essentially a final tax.

• A business with no employees, turnover of less than $60,000 and unregistered for GST.

• Small businesses that trade through a company or partnership will be taxed analogously to a sole trader by taxing the entity based on the personal marginal tax rate structure.

• A final income tax rate of 14 percent for businesses that are not traders and seven

• Transactions, such as dividends and salaries, between the business entity and its owners

Micro business tax

are eliminated, as is the need to maintain an benefits of flexible working on businesses imputation credit account. and their employees, with 66 percent of firms saying their staff feel more energised and • Income tax and GST will be calculated and motivated. “Flexible working is also acting as paid two monthly. a valuable employee attraction and retention • Trading stock and plant equipment tool, helping businesses to minimise staff purchases are deducted on a cash basis. turnover and assist in finding new talent.”

• No provisional tax, no fringe benefit tax and The research also analysed the impact of no entertainment tax apply. working habits on both company performance and employee well-being. Among New • There are no balance date and square up issues such as stocktakes.

Zealand businesses, results show:

03 341 8442 0800 4 NZVel 0800 4 69835 Email: info@nzvel.com 28 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

A new study by workplace solutions provider Regus, has revealed that 63 percent of New Zealand companies are reporting higher levels of productivity as a result of flexible working practices. Sixty eight per cent also link increasing revenues directly to flexi-working.

The research, which surveyed some 16,000 senior business managers around the world, provides evidence on the positive connection between flexible working and improved productivity and revenue generation.

Regus regional vice president of South East Asia and Australasia, William Willems, says the results clearly demonstrate the positive

• 68 percent of businesses work more on the move than they used to.

• The majority of New Zealand firms believe flexible working has a positive impact on employee health and morale, with 59 percent saying employees feel healthier.

• 87 percent of respondents expect a surge in the number of people that go part-time at some point in their career path.

• Globally, small businesses (81 percent) have embraced flexible working more readily than large companies (67 percent).

“As workforce expectations and demands continue to evolve, flexible work is becoming an attractive option for workers looking to achieve a better balance between work life and life. With the rapid developments in technology and network improvements helping to drive this demand, flexible working is now emerging as the norm rather than the exception,” he says.

Hot Spots | Winter warmers

Winter warmers

Hot plates Nothing is more enticing than a huge plate of scrumptious food to fill your belly on a warm winter’s night, when you just don’t have the energy to battle the stove. Here are two of Christchurch’s gem’s that promise an ambient evening with scrumptious food.

Tutto Bene

Hot moves As an alternative to the frigid morning run through Hagley Park’s beautiful albeit freezing winter grounds, why not try Bikram Yoga. This form of hot yoga involves a series of 26 postures and two breathing exercises practiced in a room heated up to 38 degC. It promises a good mental and physical workout, as you systematically move fresh, oxygenated blood to 100 percent of your body. Done regularly Bikram Yoga helps you to maintain a good weight, have good muscle tone and a general sense of wellbeing. So jump in now and check it out at two of Christchurch’s studios which promise an experience not to be missed.

Flow Hot Yoga Based in Riccarton, Flow Hot Yoga offers hot yoga classes for all levels of students, from the lukewarm weather of the Yin class at 30 degrees + to Power Vinyasa at 32 degrees and Hot Flow at 38 degrees. Check it out at www.flowhotyoga.co.nz

Bikram Yoga Christchurch Just off Papanui Road, this beautiful infrared heated studio has classes open to all levels taught by its team of certified instructors.

With classes 2 – 3 times a day there is a time to suit everyone. Check it out at www.bikramyogachch.co.nz

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Dining at Tutto Bene is a unique and authentically Italian experience. As you step through the doors you are instantly transported into a piece of Italy tucked away in the streets of Merivale. Owned and operated by an Italian family this vibrant restaurant promises the real deal, with tables covered in charming red and white table clothes surrounded by Italian memorabilia. Book your table now so as not to be disappointed, from pizza to pasta your own special taste of Italy is just an order away.

T (03) 355 4744 W www.tuttobene.co.nz

Cook n with Gas This restaurant on Worchester Boulevard has been a favourite amongst Christchurch locals for years, with its cutting-edge New Zealand cuisine on the menu. From the moment you walk into the 1860s villa you will be greeted by friendly knowledgeable staff. The menu has a range of delicious local produce cooked with flair, from beer battered oysters as an entrée, a healthy serving of NZ sirloin as your main and to finish it all off, a bowl of delicious lemon curd – it is a uniquely NZ dinner to die for.

T (03) 377-9166 W www.cooknwithgas.co.nz

Hot Spots | Winter warmers

Latin fever

Sweet warmers

Strawberry Fare restaurant

There is nothing better than something warm and sweet to make you feel blissfully happy on a cold winter’s night in Christchurch. From chocolate drinks to chocolate cakes, there’s a sweet range of desserts on offer at two of the city’s best sweet havens.

A family run business with a simple philosophy of having fresh ingredients cooked well. Over the years Strawberry Fare has gained a top reputation in particular for its range of decadent luscious desserts, from the melt in your mouth caramel and hazelnut torte with vanilla bean ice cream and crème anglaise, to the classic all-time favourite raspberry drenched chocolate cake.

T 365 4897 W www.strawberryfare.com E info@strawberryfare.com

As winter wraps its arms around the city, going out for the evening becomes a less tempting offer. But you don’t have to spend it huddled on a sofa at home, head out to you local Latin dance studio for a fun evening of heated dance.

Latin Addiction – Friday Latin Groove Located in the centre of Christchurch, Latin Addiction dance studios hold Friday evening Latin Groove nights throughout the year. Thrown into the mix is a an improver level lesson to teach just how you should be moving. Dust off the dance shoes and come dance along to you favourite salsa, bachata, zouk, cha cha or reggaton tune all evening. $5 entry and BYO drinks. For more info go to: www.latinaddiction.co.nz

She Chocolat It’s a unique chocolate and culinary destination in the stunning surrounds of Governors Bay. A restaurant and chocolaterie, it promises a culinary creative adventure for chocolate lovers. From an extensive savoury menu with chocolate interwoven throughout, to handcrafted chocolate, chocolate drinks and great coffee, this restaurant promises flavours to take you beyond this world.

T 3299 825

Salsa Latina – Salsa Thursdays Free entry and BYO drinks makes this studio the best place to go on a Thursday evening out. With three studios to dance in and two DJs playing the latest in latin music it promises to be a fiery night of fun. For more information go to: www.danzalatina.co.nz

W www.shechocolat.com E enquiries@shechocolat.com

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Interview | Dave Currie

The

champions ’ champion On the eve of his final Olympic mission, Dave Currie talks to Karen Pasco about the state of the Games and those who play them.

He is a former national wrestler and Black Cap team manager, granddad, mountain biker, cancer survivor and describes himself as having a “misplaced degree of optimism”.

New Zealand Olympic games chef de mission Dave Currie is enthralled with life.

It was September 2, 1960. On this particular early spring day, a momentous occasion was about to take place. Schoolboy Dave Currie was sitting at his desk along with the others in his class, tuned in to the radio which was transmitting the happenings in Rome.

This was the day New Zealand Olympic athletes Peter Snell (800m) and Murray Halberg (5000m) would win gold medals at the Rome Olympics within half an hour of each other – a momentous occasion in New Zealand’s sporting history. It is a day that is etched into the memory of Dave, now head of the New Zealand Olympic team in his role as chef de mission.

He describes it as his Olympic serendipity.

“It really had an impact on me. I remember going to the pictures and seeing it all.” What he didn’t realise then is that 40 years later, when in his role with the Murray Halberg Trust, he would accompany those two athletes to Rome when they returned to recount their memories of that very day.

The job Although many know what Currie’s present job title is, there are not many who understand what the role entails. “I remember when I got the job my granddaughter asked me what I was going to cook for everybody,” he jokes. The English translation is head of mission, how he describes it is general manager of the team, the “leader of the delegation”.

His role means he wears many hats; negotiator, diplomat, project manager, leader, decision maker, co-ordinator, team builder, communicator, motivator and liaison. His job is to ensure each athlete has the best possible environment to reach their goals and to bring the sporting codes together as a team. “What 32 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

“

I’ve been privileged of to be at every medal performance of New Zealanders since the Sydney Paralympics. To be there and be with groups of New Zealanders when athletes perform is just extraordinary.

we’ve got is 17 sports. All of them come with their own culture and have distinct ways they operate. What we’ve got to do is wrap that all into a strong and secure New Zealand team.”

Currie had always wanted to attend an Olympic Games – as a competitor. It was as a marathon runner he thought he had the best chance, but not starting until he was about 40 and unable to crack the 2hr 20 minute mark, meant it was not achievable.

He arrived at the chef de mission position through a history of sporting roles. From 1987 to 1997 he was the race director of Ironman, for 17 years the executive director for the Murray Halberg Trust and latterly the Black Caps’ team manager.

In 1988 he was asked to run as a guide for a blind marathon runner at the Seoul Olympics.

Through this he became involved in sports for the disabled and got the job as president of New Zealand Paralympics and was asked to take the team to Sydney in 2000.

He had seen the chef de mission job advertised but didn’t apply. Aware that previous chef de missions Les Mills and Dave Gerrard had both been Olympians, he thought he would not meet the hiring criteria. Then someone strongly recommended to him that it might be worth his while. “I was pretty pragmatic they didn’t really have too many applicants so I got it.”

The lows

”

So for the past decade Currie has worked on developing a culture within the team, as well as carrying out a tremendous amount of behind-the-scenes work to ensure each campaign has run as smoothly as possible.

His biggest challenge, without a doubt, was the 2010 Commonwealth Games in India. The uncertainty of whether venues or accommodation would be ready in time was frustrating and caused much anxiety in the lead up.

“It was incredibly close to the wire that we just weren’t going to bring athletes and we were just going to pull out. I was on conference calls for an hour a day with the New Zealand diplomat in India in the leadup,” he says. “What is funny though is when the athletes arrived they kept saying ‘what was all the fuss about’.”

Currie believes that the Commonwealth Games need to return to the games of old and stop trying to replicate the Olympics, which is putting countries in huge debt. “There used to be 2000 athletes go to the Commonwealth’s, now there are between 6000 and 7000. We need to get it back to a manageable size. Very few countries can afford to hold them now because they’ve just become too huge and big and costly.”

Continued on page 34 >

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Interview | Dave Currie

Continued from page 32 >

The highs The highlights of previous Olympic and Commonwealth Games is certainly seeing the medal-winning performances of athletes.

Currie has huge respect for athletes who have devoted 10, 15 or even 20 years to reach the point where they are on the world platform.

“I’ve been privileged to be at every medal performance of New Zealanders since the Sydney Paralympics. To be there and be with groups of New Zealanders when athletes perform is just extraordinary.”

He scrolls off the names of some of those athletes who provided the magic - Sarah Ulmer, Hamish Carter, Valerie Villi and the Evers-Swindell twins – those who showed the determination to dedicate their lives to their sport and also the courage to pit themselves against the world’s best with millions around the world watching – and still come first.

He vividly remembers Valerie Villi at Beijing, her strength and her absolute focus. “She walked into the stadium and stared down her competitors. She walked out almost knowing that she’d won. She had the appearance that it was her domain and her space and she really kicked butt. It was probably the most determined performance I’ve ever seen.”

The team There are 200 athletes and 100 support staff (including managers and coaches) in the New Zealand Olympic team travelling to London for this year’s Games. Currie has travelled to Old Blighty four times in the past two years to ensure the relationship between the organising committee and the New Zealand team is strong, to see the progress of the living and sport environments and understand what it will be like for athletes and staff when they arrive. He then conveys that information back to the athletes and staff. “Athletes will put up with anything as long as they know what to expect.”

One of this year’s challenges is having the New Zealanders split up around the United Kingdom. The Olympic Village is, for the first time, right next door to the Olympic Park in Stratford, East London, but the rowers will be based at Eton Dorney, the sailors at Weymouth and the men’s and women’s

football teams will be playing at different venues dotted around the UK. In order to make sure team unity is maintained Currie says it is important to make all athletes feel included. “It’s not easy but we will go to all the outlying venues and welcome them into the team separately.

We’ll also use newsletters, Facebook and Skype and texting. When they finish competition, they will come up to the main village anyway. Every member in the team wants to come and share and be part of that group.”

The village

“

I remember when I got the job my

granddaughter asked me what I was going to cook for everybody

of different immigrants during the past 800 years. We’ve all been brought together in a special way to create a united society with strong respect for each other.”

This year New Zealand has managed to secure its very own nine storey apartment block that will house just the Kiwis. Integral to the teambuilding, including the “One Team, One Spirit” ideal of the team, is the distinct decoration of the apartment block. In previous years the New Zealand athletes’ home away from home has been the envy of other nations. In Beijing it was banners of ferns and photos of previous New Zealand Olympic greats that adorned the walls and provided inspiration.

It is just not the nation which has changed since 1948 - the athletes also have a far different experience. As an example he tells the story of New Zealand backstroker Ngaire Galloway, who qualified for the 1948 London Games.

Currie remains tight-lipped about how Aotearoa will be reflected in the New Zealand camp. He does admit that in the 40ft container which is shipping sports equipment, supplements and special athlete requirements to the Games, there are also beanbags, coffee makers and “other” decorations.

After organising her chaperone, they arrived at the ship in Auckland only to find there was no swimming pool on board.

Although it is important to foster the team spirit, Currie says it’s a careful balance between that and getting the athletes hyped up. “What they want when they get there is to train, eat, rest, train, sleep. We don’t want people fired up. They’re in a supportive environment, we want them to focus and do the job they’re there to do. We can celebrate when it’s all over.”

The past He believes the evolution of New Zealand since the last London Games in 1948 is incredible. “In 1948 we were still pretty much an economy of Britain – we’re no longer like that. We’re a strong, united people, a country which has been forged by the arrival

34 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

About a week before she was due to leave she was told she would need a female chaperone, which would have to fund themselves, to accompany her to the Games – otherwise she couldn’t go.

She had the builder create a paddling pool she could use during the six-week journey to at least give her legs a kick-out. Ngaire overcame the odds and although she didn’t win a medal, Currie says her story of determination is one that is used to motivate the team.

The campaign The 2012 New Zealand Olympic team is focussing its public campaign on the parochial conviction “Making us Proud”. To highlight this, the nz2012.com website invites ordinary and extraordinary people to tell their stories about how they are inspired by someone or something from their country; “When you were most proud to be a New Zealander”.

Some of the postings relate to sport others don’t, but it is the patriotism that Currie believes will get Joe Public stirred to support

”

the team. “New Zealanders are unique we get out in the world and demand to do well.

Peter Jackson, our scientists there’s so many people - we just want to carry on that strong tradition.”

The website also allows supporters to get a chance to mingle in the thoughts of competitors. Blogs are posted by athletes, and even Currie’s messages to the team are there for all to see – providing a window into a world normally closed off – a sharp marketing ploy to rouse the masses and engage them on what Currie and every New Zealander hopes will be a successful month of competition

The future He has come a long way from the boy who sat in that classroom and listened to the live broadcast of his sporting heroes. In a roundabout way he reached his goal of making it to the Olympics – but now he knows it is time for change. The London Olympics will be his last hoorah as chef de mission after three Olympics, one Paralympics and three Commonwealth Games, Currie is calling time – although he cheekily adds he may do a “David Lange”.

“It’s an appropriate time. Most people only do one Olympics and Commonwealth Games.

You can go forever but it just seems like the right time. It’s been an extraordinary privilege really, a delight to do it. It’s just been fantastic.”

He is unsure yet of what the future holds but is confident that whatever he does, it will matter. ‘I’m keen to stay involved in sport.

Certainly carrying on and doing something that makes a difference afterwards. If you can’t make a difference in something there’s no point really.”

News | Overcoming stress

All shook up?

Business case study: Southern Hospitality

Business resiliency and stress management services

A service has been launched to help the increasing number of Canterbury businesses citing stress and fatigue as major workplace issues. The service, funded by the Ministry of Economic Development, is available through Recover Canterbury, Enterprise North Canterbury and Business Mentors New Zealand.

Southern Hospitality initiated an employee assistance programme for all local employees and their partners. Andy says while the decision to offer an employee assistance programme was based solely on their employees’ needs, the return on investment from a business perspective has been huge.

“

of the 145 businesses that have contacted Recover Canterbury for help have listed stress and fatigue as a major business issue - up from 34 percent in the month of February.

There’s no doubt that

our employee assistance programme is one of

Recover Canterbury communications manager Pip Tschudin says stress and mental and physical fatigue is taking a very real toll on business owners, their employees and the team environment.

“We’ve always had a good team but it’s never been as strong as it is today. Those employees that were part of the employee assistance programme have gained huge value out of it and they are performing better now and at a higher level than they ever have.

the reasons our team is stronger and is performing better today than it has

“The last 18 months has been a roller coaster ride for business and for some it’s not over yet. Combine that with the personal issues people are facing and the drastically altered physical environment we are all working in, and that makes for some very stressed people.

ever done.

”

“People often struggle to communicate about issues they are facing and Kiwis are probably the worst. By giving our team the opportunity to talk about these things we opened the communication channels, strengthened our people both individually and as a team and have ultimately provided our business with a strong, united platform on which to grow,” he says.

- Andy Doherty, CEO Southern Hospitality

“This new service will enable business owners to access any individual help they need as well as resiliency coaching for their team, which will result in happier, more effective and more productive people and workplaces,” she says.

Southern Hospitality instigated an employee assistance programme in April 2011, a month after the company had returned to its central Christchurch headquarters.

Any business is able to access the new service, which provides up to three sessions It provides resilience coaching, stress per business or individual. Delivering the management and other support services service will be EAP Services and Workplace for Canterbury business owners and their Support, which will tailor make a programme employees at no cost to the business. to fit each individual business’ needs.

That programme could include individual Stress and fatigue is one of the key issues coaching, team workshops or open forums facing business owners and their employees.

Since the beginning of March 2012, 46 percent on managing employee stress and conflict.

“There’s no doubt that our employee assistance programme is one of the reasons our team is stronger and is performing better today than it has ever done.”

“We were aware that there were things bubbling away under the surface that our team needed to get out into the open. Our board were very insistent that we needed to provide our team with a channel to do that,” says Southern Hospitality CEO Andy Doherty.

For more information about the service and how to access it, contact Recover Canterbury on 0800 50 50 96 or at www.recovercanterbury.co.nz

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Star Home Show | HPAC Energy Centre

Heavenly comfort As the days become colder, creating a warm and snug environment becomes a priority. Heat pumps are consistently at the forefront of options when it comes to heating an environment in an energy saving and cost efficient manner.

HPAC Energy Centre on Blenheim Rd is a leading supplier of a variety of heat pumps and can provide a myriad of heating solutions for any challenging environment. Sales manager Hamish Martin says many factors must be considered when choosing a heating source.

“It pays to look at the long term costs when choosing your heating source. You need to look at factors like reliability, length of warranty and cost of operation, rather than just the up front purchase price.”

For those who are building, there is also the option of heat pump underfloor heating.

Daikin have revolutionised underfloor heating with its Altherma hot water heat pump air to water system.

This system creates an optimal room temperature for your home with the heating system located in your floor. The heat radiates upwards, surrounding your entire body in warmth.

It all starts with the sun warming the atmosphere – a heat pump then takes the thermal energy from the outside air and extracts the energy at a certain temperature, increases that temperature and then releases it into the water which is run through underfloor pipes between 35 to 40°C.

Enjoy a cosy temperature in three easy steps: • The heat pump extracts free low temperature heat from outside air Daikin’s hot water heat pump air-towater system creates an optimal room temperature for you and your family.

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New technologies introduced during the past 10 years have also made them quieter and more effective with the introduction of inverters. These inverters adjust the output, creating a more even and constant heat within the home or office.

From the floor up

It has an automatic control system that can adjust its operation to varying conditions – so you always enjoy optimal comfort and efficiency.

The system provides the latest heating technology and works without oil, flammable gas or other hazardous substances – thus reducing potential risks and environmental issues these fuels can create. Moreover, you don’t need a gas connection or a fuel tank – no risk of intoxication, smell or pollution from leaking tanks.

Cheaper hot water The Daikin Altherma hot water tank uses a mixture of heat pump technology and electric element to ensure the lowest possible energy consumption to provide rapid water heating.

The water inside the tank is primarily warmed up by the thermal energy from the outside air via the heat pump. The combination of an electric element, in the upper part of the tank, and the heat pump in the lower part, creates an extremely efficient system. In addition, a built in disinfection function can automatically raise the water temperature to 70°C or higher to prevent the risk of bacteria growth.

Reliable service HPAC Energy Centre has been providing heating solutions to Cantabrians for more than 25 years. Aside from selling heat pumps, HPAC offers a full heating service which includes everything from designing ducted systems through to installation and servicing of all products it sells. A family business, it specialises in modern heating systems to make your environment healthier, drier, more comfortable and economical and eco-efficient.

Knowledgeable and experienced consultants work with customers to assess needs and budget and design a solution which will best accommodate their environment. This includes and assessment of the layout and design of a house, considering major factors such as age of the home and insulation which can influence the efficiency of the heating system.

HPAC Energy Centre is proud of the brands it supplies to customers - trusted and reliable products from Daikin, Panasonic, Mitsubishi Electric and Fujitsu. In fact, HPAC is New Zealand’s leading distributor of Daikin heat pumps.

Whether you are at the planning stages of building your new home, or looking at how you can make your existing home a more comfortable place to live, the staff at HPAC Energy Centre can assist.

36 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

• The system raises the temperature of the recovered heat • This greater warmth is then distributed throughout your home via underfloor pipes.

“

It pays to look at the long term costs when choosing your heating source.

You need to look at factors like reliability, length of warranty and cost of operation, rather than just the up front purchase price.

”

- Sales manager Hamish Martin

HPAC Energy Centre product range

• Split system domestic heat pumps • Multi-head heat pumps • Underfloor heating systems • Domestic hot water heat pumps • Swimming pool heat pumps • Solar water heating • Heat recovery systems • Ventilation • Kitchen extraction • Insulation.

HPAC Energy Centre 355 Blenheim Road Christchurch T (03) 348 3057 F (03) 348 3067 www.hpac.net.nz — Advertising Feature

Star Show Home | Firenzo

The mission to make the best wood fires in New Zealand by having a great range of very efficient and clean burning fires to suit most home requirements. “We have built a reputation for producing high quality, high performing wood fires, in a market that is seeing a huge renaissance in homeowners choosing fires as their preferred heating choice,” he says.

Peter Hewitson started Firenzo back in 1986, working as a one-man-band from a shed on his property in Rissington, west of Napier.

However, it wasn’t long before the business outgrew the shed and Peter rented a property in the Onekawa Industrial Area in Napier, taking on staff and moving to progressively larger premises.

“Also with electricity and gas prices spiralling out of control, wood-fired heating is now the only low-cost economic solution for many.”

As the company grew Peter realised he wanted to take a step back and so Gary Edwards came on board, allowing Peter to keep an interest in the company and on product development in light of stricter emission regulations. “As the air quality requirements have tightened, and keep tightening, we’ve stayed compliant,” Peter says.

With an eye on growing its export sales, Firenzo recently recognised the company required restructuring to achieve its growth potential. It has invested in a $1.5 million purpose-built factory in Napier with a big emphasis on efficiency and robust systems that will enable sustained growth for many years to come.

Factory manager Simon Thacker came to Firenzo from the United Kingdom just 12 months ago, but during this time has streamlined the factory process, shortening the time customers have to wait for their fires to be manufactured. “It’s just common sense “We’ve spent hundreds of thousands of dollars really and has transformed the business, as in laboratory testing to ensure that we keep we can now convert flat packs to fireplaces up with the play. New Zealand leads the world in just three days, whereas before, we would in regulations governing wood fires – the USA have to complete a ‘run’ before we could put and Europe have pretty tough rules, but ours together the model that a customer wanted – are even tougher, ahead of Australia, which and that could take weeks.” puts us in a good position for the future.”

The majority of Firenzo fires are able to be Firenzo as a business has been growing fitted with wetbacks and many models have rapidly for the past five years and Gary cast-iron tops so can be used for cooking as well as warming the home.

Edwards says they have achieved this

Why choose a Firenzo?

• Legendary lasting quality • Styles to suit any home

Firenzo Hewitsons: Sales and Marketing Manager Steve McCarty and company founder Peter Hewitson discuss benefits of the new Encore wood burner

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What began as one man tinkering in his backyard has emerged as one of the country’s leading manufacturers of wood fires, Firenzo.

• Designed to heat a whole house, not just a room • Produces dry, healthy heat

Showroom and office manager Sharon Simon says “a lot of people prefer the ambience of a fire, it warms the house and dries it out. A fire provides a different type of warmth to a heat pump as, once you turn the heat pump off, the house becomes cold again very quickly.

A fire will continue to put out heat, making homes healthier as well.

• Models with wetback fitted can provide substantial hot water

“And let’s face it, fires are very romantic – you can’t turn out the lights and enjoy the cosy atmosphere with a heat pump.”

• The freestanding models with cast iron tops are great for cooking on

To see the full range of Firenzo woodfires go to: www.firenzo.co.nz

• New Zealand made.

• Unlike a pellet fire or heat pump, does not need electricity to run • The excellent heat-retention properties of the lined firebox ensures your fire continues to radiate gentle heat long after the fire itself has burnt out

• All fires utilise the safety features of Robax™ glass keeping you warm and safe

Nothing heats your home like a Firenzo woodfire Firenzo freestanding and insert woodburning fires: • Designed to heat your whole home, not just the lounge

• Superior, efficient heat output and legendary, lasting quality • Traditional and modern designs to suit any home • Market leaders in wetback fires • Ability to cook on freestanding models

See our complete range, and find a dealer near you, at

www.firenzo.co.nz

FIRENZO WO O D F I R E S

The heart of a warm home www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 37

E IN W r) all F oi c O ot n t o i n ple SE r p o A n o pe C no 11 E v ig st E (sau e fir FR r th

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THE MOST COST EFFECTIVE WAY OF FINDING STAFF WE GUARANTEE TO FIND YOU THE PERFECT CANDIDATE OR YOUR MONEY BACK! Would you like to have a steady flow of interested, high calibre candidates calling / emailing you? If you would like complete control over your recruiting process and not have to pay the thousands of dollars others may charge you to find the same person, then this is the solution for you.

It’s obvious that recruiting has become extremely tough over the last few years, and you have to talk to a lot more people than ever before to find the right one.

So why is recruiting getting so hard?

The biggest obstacle you face is marketing incest.

Everyone goes to the same seminars, reads the same publications and looks in the same places for staff.

Breakthroughs come from looking outside the rectangle and looking at new, proven methods of advertising for staff.

Imagine how easy your life would be with great staff.

Imagine if you were able to promote yourself and your company so people can actually see what it would be like to work at your place.

Imagine if you were actually able to view CVs, and actual work wanted ads, so you could see what job hunters want. This way you know when you employ them that you’ve got someone who wants to work in your environment. You’re not squeezing a round peg into a square hole, as many of us do, only to find they move on after a few months.

Our revolutionary job site only began the end of 2006 and this is growing rapidly. We also have more than 1500 businesses registered as employers, including some of the biggest companies in NZ with more than 9000 employees, right through to some of the smallest companies with only a couple of staff.

If you would like to see some of our clients please log on to our site and view. We also have over 16,000 registered jobhunters who are actively looking for new employment and many of them receive email alerts as soon as jobs are posted.

But our major benefit to you is that we only charge $595+gst per year for unlimited use. I’ll repeat that because it does sound too cheap. $595 for an entire year to advertise as many jobs as you like.

Your next question is no doubt, how can we do it so cheaply? We prefer the expression “cost effective.”

Because we don’t need to pay huge overheads or the over-the-top salaries.

In fact there’s only a handful of full time staff, and the rest are part time. Just shows you how much the foreign owned corporations are over-charging.

professional but friendly.

To give you a comparison, if you were to run five ads over a year and have a company profile next to your ad it would cost you a minimum of $3225 on one of these sites. On our site it is $595+gst. And of course if you don’t, or you’re not happy with any part of our service, we’ll refund you in full. There’s absolutely no risk! So we’ll at least make one expense low, constant and risk free.

• Requests are welcomed and actioned in a timely manner by staff that we have liaised with over time.

It’s been said you can be the greatest manager in the world – but that won’t do any good unless you can attract enough of the right people. www.myjobspace.co.nz may be the solution.

Gary Collins, Managing Director

Myjobspace was for employers and employees, the service was exceptional and it was a great way to capture our target audience”.

Jessica Scott — Media Monitors

”

my online jobs through I found the team at Myjobspace. co.nz to not only be super helpful, but competitive in pricing and best of all they have the best range of searchable locations, especially for a niche advertiser like me! Thanks team!”

Brad Stewart — Director Talent Capital

”

Glen Brooke-Anderson - perfectlifestyle.com.au

“From time to time we do an evaluation of our service • Staff including yourself (Damien) are always

Paula Parkin HR Manager Te Whanau o Waipareira Trust

”

MyJobSpace is their attention to service and after sale care. The entire staff has been willing to go above and beyond the call of duty to handle every issue and make sure things are right. In some cases, they’ve done MORE than I expected.

Steve Skobel — Marketing Manager

”

business and with previous business dealings in the New Zealand property market, I found the site My Job Space NZ. From my first contact with Zack Foreman and his team at My Job Space, I knew that I had made the right decision in spending my advertising dollars with them.

Zack is articulate, friendly, reliable, extremely helpful and patient given that I had minimal international advertising experience at that stage. He demonstrated interest and talent when guiding me through the formulation of my advertisement and I am proud to stand by the final result. I have no hesitation in recommending Zack and his professional advertising team at myjobspace.co.nz to other business owners.

”

PROUD TO BE THE ONLY KIWI OWNED & OPERATED MAJOR JOB SITE! P.S. WE PROVIDE AN UNCONDITIONAL MONEY BACK GUARANTEE!

P.P.S. Special offer! Mention this ad when you sign up for an advertiser account this month and receive two priority listings FREE (value $160.00). These will keep your ad at the top of the search page for seven days which will ensure your ad won’t be missed.

The launch site for every Kiwi career

LOG ON TO WWW.MYJOBSPACE.CO.NZ OR PHONE 0800 4 TODAY (0800 486 329)

”

– Belinda Smith

of committment to finding the best solution for my business. Zack has always given me friendly, helpful customer service. He has been a pleasure to work with.

MyJobSpace’s committment to improving their service is impressive.

providers. We have been working with your company since 18/12/08 and would like to advise the following:

Noho ora mai

“Through an interest in advertising my new home based

“We were really surprised with how easy to use

“I have been impressed with MyJobSpace’s level

As the key contact person for our organisation I am pleased to provide the above information and please pass on to your colleagues.

“One of the things that impresses me the most about

So if you’re ready to save time and money call now or log on to www.myjobspace.co.nz. In less than seven minutes you can have your first ad ready, and when/if you need to run your second ad in the future it will only take a few minutes. In fact many employers think our site is the easiest site for loading jobs.

“After searching for a committed partner to advertise

• The can do attitude of customer service is a pleasure to work with.

*

apply now

Focus | Recruitment

Recruitment v Retention the real cost of hiring

By Kent Kaddick

Surprisingly there are company managers out there who take delight in a high staff turnover.

Every year they can march into their managing director’s office and point to how they have managed to avoid increasing the company’s salary or wage bill and some may even be able to claim financial incentives for doing so.

The managing director will often be pleased his senior manager has been able to do this, given the often high percentage of the budget being taken by staff costs. They would feel it was a pointer toward a healthy bottom line.

But is it?

Even those managers and companies who accept that employee turnover hurts their organisation’s bottom line often fail to fully grasp the total extent to which it affects their business.

There are clearly a number of turnover costs that can be easily quantifiable in relation to staff turnover, but these costs are just the tip of the iceberg.

Human resources website HR.com has estimated that it costs two to three times more to replace a worker than to keep an existing employee - even when you’re replacing an unproductive employee with one who is more efficient. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) estimates that replacing a single employee costs roughly one and half times that employee’s annual salary.

Under the SHRM model, a junior employee on $30,000 per annum, who will only stay for a short time, say two years, will cost the company for their replacement $45,000, or an additional $22,500 in lost profits per year over those two years. If the same employee was encouraged to stay longer, say five years, it would only cost the company $8,000 a year.

There are numerous turnover costs which will never appear on any balance sheet or income statement which can have a serious impact on a firm’s bottom line. Some of the

costs associated with employee turnover are unavoidable and must be expected to occur in the normal course of business.

The cost of recruiting new employees takes time and money; from advertising the open position to sifting through resumes, interviewing candidates and training.

Employee recruiting can be tedious and expensive.

Hard costs, such as recruiting, interviewing, and training are easy to quantify. However, there are other soft costs which are more difficult to quantify, but can have a huge impact on an organisation’s bottom line.

Each time an employee is lost the hiring and selection cycle must start again. These costs can be significant: advertising costs, cost of recruitment agencies, background checks, reference checks, drug testing, cost of overtime pay, temporary help and much more.

And once a hiring decision is made, the costs of turnover don’t stop, but rather continue.

Sign-on bonuses, relocation costs, and any increases in salary level necessary to attract new talent all add up quickly. The time spent

by HR managers to onboard and train the new employee can also be costly and unnecessary.

These are all tangible costs that could be avoided with a better employee retention strategy.

Consider the affects on productivity that are caused by turnover. It takes on average eight weeks to recruit and hire a new employee.

During this time production can seriously falter. Other employees have to pick up the slack in production, often taking on tasks and responsibilities they are unfamiliar with or untrained in. The negative affect on production caused by turnover doesn’t stop when a new employee is hired.

There is always a learning curve associated with any job; for some it can be short and insignificant, while for many others it can be a considerable period of time. During this time it takes a new employee to “get up to speed” with the rest of the team, production will never be as good as it could be.

to share this knowledge and mentor junior members in the company. Once again these costs are near impossible to quantify, but there is sure to be an affect on the bottom line.

Problem employees demand attention, but high performers need attention as well.

Acknowledge and reward them for their hard work and loyalty. If you do not then a competitor might!

How can a company retain staff and prevent that bottom line drain?

Listen carefully to the ideas of employees and treat them like individuals instead of cogs in a machine. Many company managers are uncomfortable sharing important business and financial information however, truthfully presenting the facts can prevent panic.

Considering the years of layoffs and business closures, employees who are left in the dark tend to fear for their futures. Silence could send them job hunting.

It could be something as simple and tangible as remuneration, or it may be something more intangible like job satisfaction.

So if that junior employee was offered a slightly higher salary, say $40,000, the chances of that employee staying longer are much higher. If they were to stay five years, the loss of profit to the company would only be $12,000 annually, as compared to the annual cost of $22,500 if they left after two years on $30,000. It could also mean a more experienced or productive person could be employed.

A fair and equitable wage and benefits package is the foundation for any successful employee retention programme, but the basic rule is ‘do not take employees for granted’.

The recent recession has caused many employees to step up and take on more work for the same, or in some cases, less money.

Many of them might have been happy to still have a job, but that feeling will not last forever.

Valuing employees will increase employee retention. Invest in employees by training them and providing them with opportunities for advancement. No one wants to do the same thing forever. Companies would do well to try to advance from within whenever possible, and challenge employees to try new and innovative ideas. They might come up with some cost saving devices of their own.

A Harvard University study reported that 80 percent of employee turnover can be attributed to mistakes made during the hiring process. The implications of this are huge: up to 80 percent of your turnover can be blamed on hiring mistakes. The problem lies in the employee selection process. Simply put, the wrong people are being hired for the wrong jobs.

There can also be a significant loss in business due to employee turnover. Many employees enjoy a loyal following of customers with whom they share a real connection. When these employees leave, particularly if they depart to a similar business, many of those loyal customers go too.

If there is no work-life balance and no extra pay to compensate for the added hours, it is just a matter of time before employees simply burnout or become bitter. Fear of losing a job will not motivate people indefinitely, particularly when they may be able to find better pay or a less demanding work environment.

Think outside the box; while that junior employee who will work for $30,000 and will stay for just a couple of years looks good on the balance sheet, maybe a more senior employee who is looking for a longer term position, even though they may cost slightly more, is better for business in the long run.

Another serious cost to companies when they lose employees is the loss of organisational knowledge. Many employees are able to become experts in the field they work in and when they leave, so does that knowledge.

These employees are no longer available

Those in leadership often assume high performing employees are happy and subsequently do not take the time to communicate with them. Communication is the key to every successful relationship and employment relationships are no different.

There is no arguing with the fact that retaining current employees is more cost effective than recruiting new ones. Taking the time to invest in employees and make them feel appreciated may not seem like a dire business decision, but over time the money saved will outweigh the time spent. www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 39

Focus | Recruitment

Putting people first Established by Managing Director Felicity Ryan in 1988, recruitment company Ryan is 100 percent Canterbury owned and operated. Felicity has 28 years experience in the recruitment industry based in Christchurch and the company now has representation in Auckland and Wellington.

“We’re proud of our commercial reputation for exemplary processes and strong ethics,” she says, with Ryan an active member of the RCSA, HRINZ and the EEO Trust. “We assist job seekers and clients across a range of industry sectors, from skilled labourers through to CEOs. We take the time to learn about our candidates’ ambitions and preferences, whether it’s for part or full-time work, or simply help with a resume and career advice.”

Felicity says when working with companies, their focus is on understanding what the company needs from its employees and the market forces which impact on business requirements.

“Ryan’s years of experience minimise the risk and stress of the hiring process. In the business support sector we’ve been the South Island market leaders for over two decades and we’re well known for sourcing and placing temps.”

Ryan assists in the placement of permanent, temporary and contract appointments across the entire business support sector – from secretaries to contract accountants, call centre operators to office managers, executive assistants, customer service representatives, administration and accounts, legal executives and receptionists.

Ryan also has a strong presence in the industrial recruitment sector with a focus on civil engineering, roading, manufacturing and warehouse and logistics - filling positions from general labouring, drivers, fitter/welders and forklift drivers to engineers and building assessors.

“Ryan has provided recruitment services to some of the region’s largest employers and we’re experts in managing multiple recruitment appointments and HR project management”.

Ryan’s Performance management and career development support • Performance Appraisal • Development Planning • Training • 360 Degree Review • Management Training • Team Building • Executive Coaching

“Our clients range from SMEs to large businesses. We understand companies’ short, medium and long-term needs can vary and that business-support roles are fundamental to the success of every commercial operation.

“One of our sayings is that ‘a well placed candidate means a happy and productive employee and a satisfied client’ – we pride ourselves on getting it right the first time.”

Ryan’s HR Specialists provide additional support through the recruitment process to assist a company to identify the right person, ensure remuneration is fair and equitable and contractual obligations are met.

That can involve psychometric assessments, employment agreements, remuneration reviews, employee handbooks and employee inductions. However, Ryan’s services encompass much more than the right person for the right job. “Business support recruitment is Ryan’s foundation, it’s where we built our business from when the company started in Christchurch nearly 25 years ago,” Felicity says.

“We believe that HR systems, policies and procedures should support an organisation to be high performing and should help drive results through Key Performance Indicators while still emphasising staff development.

“HR systems and procedures should also encourage clear communication between management and staff and help create a community feel throughout an organisation.”

Ryan’s HR Support includes: HR audits, health surveys, coaching and implementation of HR

Ryan’s HR Support • HR Audits • Health Surveys • Coaching • Implementation of HR Strategy • Psychometric Assessments • Employment Agreements • Remuneration Reviews • Employee Handbooks • Employee Inductions strategy. Ryan also advises on employment relations issues and can provide assistance with employee performance issues, industrial relations and give disciplinary process advice.

“The aim is to maintain employer-employee relationships to ensure a satisfied, productive and motivated workforce,” Felicity says.

“Primarily the focus is on preventing and resolving any issues involving individuals which arise out of or affect work situations.”

Ryan Recruitment Limited 303 Blenheim Road Upper Riccarton Christchurch New Zealand T (03) 365 0294 F (03) 343 4665 — Advertising Feature E mail@ryan.co.nz

If you are a candidate seeking a new career path or a client seeking expertise in the following areas, please contact us to fast track your next move.

• Business Support • ICT • Accounting & Finance • Sales • Management • Warehousing & Logistics • Manufacturing & Production • Engineering & Operations • Civil Roading P. 03 365 0294 | E. mail@ryan.co.nz | www.ryan.co.nz

40 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Focus | Recruitment

Steve says it is this passion and commitment to provide New Zealand companies with the best staff possible which drives him and his team. “Staff are the best resource any company can have and our job is to ensure those who come to us have the best resources possible to grow their business.”

As the company has grown so has the range of services it offers and the careers it places job seekers into. “When the company first started the focus was very much on the blue collar trades, but now we have a great deal of experience in recruiting for a much wider variety of positions in the white collar field.

Finding the right people Experience is what Enterprise Recruitment’s Christchurch branch manager Steve Baker (MRCSA) believes sets his team apart from the rest in satisfying the needs of employers and job seekers around Canterbury.

“Our consultants are all accredited professionals who are committed to a career in the recruitment industry,” he says.

“We have two Recruitment and Consulting Services Association (RCSA) fellows, with 10 or more years experience in the industry, four RCSA members and the remainder accredited professionals. Most of our recruiting consultants are mature and full of life experience which greatly assists in placing the right person into the right position.”

The RCSA is the leading industry and professional body for the recruitment and the human resources services sector in Australia and New Zealand and represents more than 4700 company and individual members.

With the industry is largely self regulated, Steve says membership and accreditation to the RCSA plays an important role in ensuring their clients know they are getting a comprehensive service when filling their recruitment needs.

Enterprise Recruitment was founded in 1972 by former Cantabrian Leo McDonald as a recruitment and management consultancy agency. It is now one of the largest New Zealand owned and operated recruitment agencies in the country, with its head office in Auckland and branches in Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch and Invercargill.

“IT staff, technical engineers, project managers, senior management, business developers along with general administration staff - filling these roles is now a large part of our recruitment arsenal, with staff dedicated to recruiting in these areas.”

The use of technology in recruitment is something Enterprise Recruitment has been quick to pick up on in enabling it to secure the right people for vacancies. “We recently had a bespoke database written and commissioned with increased functionality.

This new database allows us to identify the ideal candidates to get the best outcome for our clients quickly. It enables us to get and locate both ‘active’ and passive candidates” Enterprise Recruitment doesn’t just look for candidates within New Zealand and has a specialist recruiter and immigration consultant based in the United Kingdom.

It also assists to create those job seekers through its tertiary student scholarship programme. Under this programme Enterprise Recruitment annually provides up to three students who have a high level of academic attainment, strong interpersonal skills and a passion for New Zealand, with a tertiary or trade study scholarship worth up to $2500 each.

Real industry focus Enterprise Recruitment has worked on a few unusual vacancies over the years and is happy to help employers fill any kind of role - but there are main sectors it recruits in. Enterprise recruits nationwide across the full range of roles in: • Accounting • Banking • Commercial • Construction & Engineering • Industrial & Technical • Temporary Services • Insurance • IT • Legal • Manufacturing/production • Medical

Enterprise Recruitment Unit 4-357 Madras Street Christchurch T (03) 365 3112 F (03) 365 1550 E christchurch@enterprise.co.nz — Advertising Feature

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 41

Focus | Strawberry Sound

A new level of

entertainment

Like many Christchurch businesses, audio visual lighting and automation company Strawberry Sound has had its trials during the last 18 months. But also like many it has adapted to the times.

After being forced to leave its home of 10 years in Falsgrave Street, Strawberry Sound has nestled into a new home alongside another component of the Strawberry Sound Group’s presence in the city.

Phil Ward, the managing director of Strawberry Sound’s Canterbury operation, says moving into the Top Hi Fi premises at 5 Pilgrim Place has been a bit of a tight squeeze, but there have been benefits.

“It has really added another dimension to Strawberry Sound having a larger show room for the front end of the business.

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The Strawberry Sound team outside their new premises they share with the Top Hi Fi Shop.

“Many of our clients like to be able to see, hear and touch what we are proposing to install for them and with the show room space we are able to satisfy that need. We are also able to showcase to our clients the top end audio and visual products stocked at the Top Hi Fi Shop,” Phil says.

Throughout the relocation the team at Strawberry Sound hasn’t been downing tools as a number of high profile projects have continued on despite the shaking.

“While the east side of Christchurch has been pretty much no go, developments in the west and north have continued.”

At first work was a little piecemeal and reactionary following the major shakes, with residential patch-ups, insurance work and corporate boardroom relocations the order of the day. However, some major long term projects have carried on, in particular the redevelopment of Christchurch International Airport has rolled on at pace.

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At Sound Group Holdings we truly believe that we represent ‘brands that lead the way’.

Our portfolio includes some 19 market-leading brands that service Car Audio, Custom Installation and other Hi Fi and Home Theatre products.

P: 09 415-6680 F: 09 415-6683 Unit B, 3 Rothwell Avenue, Albany, Auckland

42 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Strawberry Techs installing an electronic white board.

For Strawberry Sound the airport redevelopment is a major project, with three

staff dedicated to the project for around two years, as it installs a new PA system and emergency warning system.

With the end of the deconstruction phase of the Christchurch rebuild in sight and the construction phase beginning to loom, Phil Ward believes Strawberry Sound is well placed to meet the needs of the growing number of clients in the market place.

“We are in a good position to be a part of the rebuild phase as we have some very experienced staff, both design and technical, who have the very highest level of skill. And we have access to major brands at the best prices.”

Phil Ward says Strawberry Sound prides itself on completing projects on time and on budget, but equally he takes pride in the reputation the company is gaining, both from satisfied customers and from within the industry.

“As the custom installation of audio visual automation and industrial electronics is not a regulated industry, it is important to set our own high standards and operate on an infrastructure that will allow it to continue on into the future,” he says.

“As a means of self-regulation Strawberry Sound is an active member of ECANZ (Electrical Contractors Association of New Zealand) and CEDIA (Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association).

“We’re also proud to say that we complete all projects in-house, from design and consultation through to pre-wiring, fitting-at and commissioning, with many awards gained from the quality of our workmanship and service.”

Focus | Strawberry Sound

Strawberry Sound offers: • Lifetime warranty on all installations • Qualified technicians and quality brands • Member of ECANZ (Electrical Contractors Assn. of NZ)

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• Member of CEDIA (Custom Design and Installation Assn.)

Christchurch airport new terminal II

• Winner ‘Crestron New Integrator of the Year Award 2008’

Strawberry Sound Limited

The glamour projects like AMI Stadium and Christchurch Airport are not the only ones which give Ward a sense of satisfaction at having Strawberry Sound involved in.

The installation of a nurse call system at Christchurch Women’s Hospital day surgery unit, along with completing an upgrade to the cardiac alarm system at Christchurch Hospital, have given Ward equal satisfaction in being able to display the versatility of Strawberry Sound.

Residential projects are also an important component of Strawberry Sound’s business.

“As techies ourselves we love playing with the new technology as it comes on line, and using that technology to design new integrated sound, visual, lighting and automation systems.

“However, utilising all this up to the minute technology is desirable only as long as it is easy to use. It is our challenge to ensure the end user finds the system simple to operate.

• Strawberry Sound began business in Bath Street, Dunedin in 1984. It was founded by aspiring musician Mike Pearce, originally as a recording facility and audio rental company.

Strawberry Sound has the latest audio visual equipment for residential and commercial installations.

• The next stage of development was a contracting division along with a showroom and retail presence to showcase the audio visual and automation products of the day.

• In 1995 Strawberry Sound Canterbury was set up, with a high quality retail showroom and contracting division.

Following this, a Strawberry Sound branch was established in Queenstown, Invercargill, Nelson, Wellington and Auckland, each location having a manager under the guidance of Strawberry Sound Dunedin and Canterbury. <

“Young people are quick to pick up on the new technologies, but some of our older clients aren’t so techno savvy, so it’s our job to ensure that all our end users are comfortable with the system they have.”

• Since originating in Dunedin in 1984, Strawberry Sound has earned a reputation as a market leader in the fields of audio-visual and lighting control, with an exclusive range of wellestablished brand names and specialist installation knowledge.

• Today the Strawberry Sound Group operates in six locations throughout the South Island and two in the North Island and employs 63 people.

Phil Ward, left, discusses product for a residential installation with some of his team.

Anthony Runacres & Associates Limited are proud to support Strawberry Sound

As Specialist Commercial Insurance Brokers based in Christchurch we are pleased to offer insurance advice to all Businesses

Pleased to be associated with Strawberry Sound Jands reputation has been built on a dedication to supplying world leading audio products and solutions for our customers.

Phone: 09 275 8710 | Fax: 09 275 8790

6A Doncaster Street, Mangere, AUCKLAND 2022

Contact Brian Reedy E: breedy@runacres.co.nz P O Box 4020, Christchurch 8140 Ph: (03) 379 1001

New Zealand distributor for Triax Products

• Starview Receivers • Micro Satellite Receivers • Fibre Products • Portable Dish Systems • TDX Digital Head End • Digital Television Distribution Systems

Proud to be associated with

Strawberry Sound

P: 03 344 5417 | F: 03 344 5419

www.digitalimports.co.nz | www.triaxnz.com

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 43

Focus | Strawberry Sound Case study -

Deans Stand AMI Stadium

“

With international sporting events through to rock bands to host, AMI’s “in house” sound, lighting and audio visual systems needed to be of very high-quality – powerful, reliable and distortion-free

”

- Phil Ward

“With international sporting events through to rock bands to host, AMI’s “in house” sound, lighting and audio visual systems needed to be of very high-quality – powerful, reliable and distortion-free,” Phil Ward says.

“For this large-scale project we employed JBL, Crown and BSS products to power the in house PA systems, a Dynalite Lighting Control System, Dynalite Mechanical Control System and Match Master MATV System.”

Phil says a key to the success of the project was pre-planning. “We had a dedicated team working on the project. After getting the construction plans we set about designing the pre-wire, working out the cabling routes and when and how we would be working with and around other contractors on site.”

quality with angle playing a vital role in ensuring the mid and high frequencies were clear and distortion free.

“It was virtually impossible to test the installation of the speakers in the roof once they had gone up. Physically it would have been very difficult to get to them once they were in the roof.”

“It was extremely important to get the angle of the speakers right before they were installed, as there was virtually no way we could get to them to change the angles once they were up. There was no margin for error.”

That meant the main roof speaker system had to be wired, installed and tested on the ground before it was raised into place. The angling of the speakers was crucial for sound

Phil Wards says they and the project managers Fletcher Construction were extremely pleased with the outcome of the 18 month project. <

Strawberry Sound was the successful tenderer for the design and installation of the sound and lighting control system for the Deans Stand at AMI Stadium.

In one of the more challenging aspects of the fit out Strawberry Sound had to get right first time with no second chances after install.

Deans Stand

This involved the Strawberry Team becoming familiar with the project’s site safe procedures and being a part of planning and construction meetings to ensure construction deadlines were met.

Once the pre-wire was complete Strawberry Sound began the fit out and testing.

Pleased to be associated with Strawberry Sound • Boardrooms • University Halls • Churches • Shopping Centres • Nightclubs • World-leading Sports & Concert venues Stockists of leading international brands: • Grand View Projector Screens – www.herma.com.au • Crestron – www.crestron.co.nz

www.hillssvl.co.nz Ph: 09 415 9426 | E: sales@hillssvl.co.nz

44 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Focus | Strawberry Sound

As in-ceiling speakers are fixed in place, it would be difficult to change the orientation of the speakers if the TV was moved. This was overcome by placing the front three speakers in a wide array with the centre speaker inbetween the two possible TV positions. <

The Spires

Residential installations A recent domestic installation for Strawberry Sound consisted of two three bedroom apartments and two bedsits in a three story building.

Both wanted to be able to place one satellite dish on the roof that would allow for multiple decoders throughout the building and high definition picture in multiple rooms. This was achieved by utilising a HDMI matrix allowing for multiple source inputs into multiple screens and a multiplex TV system that allows satellite dishes and terrestrial aerials into the one signal device, sending all received information to multiple decoders.

Strawberry Sound then had the issue of multiple rooms for audio. One room that was high on priority for audio was the laundry, due to the amount of time spent ironing. This was easily achieved by installing a Niles ZR4 multi room amplifier. Capable of distributing four audio sources into four rooms, the ZR4 gives flexibility and ease of use to even the most techno illiterate of people.

As the clients had yet to live in these apartments, they were unsure regarding the orientation of the TVs final position, but still wanted in-ceiling 5.1 surround sound.

From traditional floor standing and discrete in-wall speakers to CD players, tuners and Then, using the home cinema amplifiers audio powerful amplifiers, we’ve quality brands calibration microphone, Strawberry Sound set that will add a whole new dimension to your the speakers to fire to the client’s favourite favourite music or movies. viewing position. This tied the sound and the picture to hit that position at exactly the Basic distributed audio same time.

Allows you to listen to your favourite tunes from your audio equipment in multiple areas All audio visual equipment was placed in of your home, with various controls available one centralised cupboard and controlled via that enable you to select music or alter the either radio frequency remote control or, in volume in each room. the multi-room audio’s case, wall-mounted keypad and infrared remote control.

Entertainment areas are not just for indoors All speakers were in-ceiling speakers (with the either, now you can enjoy your favourite music from your deck, garden or pool through exception of the floor standing sub-woofer) giving the appearance of less clutter but filling external wall-mounted speakers, and even speakers that appear as pot plants or rocks. both apartments with sound and vision.

The end result gave the client a simple to use audio visual system which was hard to see but easy to hear.

Vision Plasmas, LCDs & Projectors Strawberry Sound has a wide range of the latest flat panel televisions, projectors and DVD players available. Whether it’s a single room home theatre display or multiple panels throughout your home, Strawberry Sound can design and install a visual distribution system using the latest in HDMI and Blu Ray technology to ensure you get the best picture possible. These systems provide great entertainment and can be tailored to suit your requirements, your decor and your budget.

Sound Hi-Fi and Home Theatre Obtain the listening experience of a lifetime every time, with a hi-fi or home theatre

Controlled distributed audio / video Use controls such as an intelligent remote or a variety of wall controls and touch screens to control the audio visual systems in your home.

With this type of system you can control equipment in any area of the house, from increasing the volume and fast forwarding, through to choosing what you want to watch – Sky, DVD, Video – on any TV in the house.

Control Design and pre-wire This is quite possibly the most important part of any audio visual or control system and a step not to be rushed.

Quality system design and pre-wire is essential, as it gives you future options as to how and where you can enjoy your audio visual entertainment, and in some cases, place lights, control panels and other technology. A consultation with Strawberry

<

The clients (partners in business) wished to live in the three bedroom apartments and let out the bedsits below. Both clients had different tastes but similar ideas when it comes to how they would like to enjoy music and movies throughout their homes.

system that ensures total enjoyment. It’s so easy to achieve with components assembled by the specialist team specifically to suit your music tastes and requirements.

Christchurch Airport new terminal

Sound’s professional designers and installers can save you time and money by ensuring your system is set up correctly from the very beginning.

Home control /automation The ultimate in home comforts, giving you control of almost any electrical device you want via remote control, wall switches or fully wireless touch screens.

Using today’s technology Strawberry Sound can devise it so that you have almost unlimited control over your home environment, even when you’re not there.

From lighting, heating or projection screens, through to the blinds or irrigation, Strawberry Sound puts you in complete control.

Strawberry Sound Christchurch T (03) 379 8477 F (03) 379 8191 E phil@strawberrysound.co.nz www.strawberrysound.co.nz — Advertising Feature

As a key retailer of Denon in Christchurch, we are proud to have supported Strawberry Sound over the last 18-months and to celebrate the bright future in the region we’re offering a FREE Zone 2 kit. This includes high-performance indoor/outdoor speakers and quality speaker cable, valued $839 with all purchases of our award-winning Denon AVR-3312 this month. Please check out the details with Strawberry Sound at 5 Pilgrim Place (Unit 2), ph: (03) 365 2041.

Why could this be the best Home Entertainment Deal in Christchurch?

RRP $2299

7 channels of precise and powerful Denon amplification

Airplay and the Denon app making it incredibly easy to enjoy

The flexibility of control and to connect almost anything.

...and it’s been awarded ‘best reciever’ for 2012

*Control device not included

KJ Distributors Ltd import and distribute custom audio and high end hifi equipment.

Focal Speakers from France, Musical Fidelity and Cyrus Audio from the UK. Complete Audio Technology for custom installation.

KJ Distributors Ltd Hamilton, New Zealand (07) 847 8436, 021 743 080 www.kjd.co.nz www.focalnz.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 45

Focus | Les Mills

Pumping energy into the CBD

A determined building stands in the heart of Christchurch’s CBD. Like an oasis of energy in an otherwise desolate landscape – this building is full of life, vibrancy and colour.

Welcome to Les Mills Christchurch city.

You have the option of booking pre-school aged children in to the gym’s Ministry of This high-tech facility has been custom-built to Education-certified Early Learning Centre include the latest and greatest of technology where they are surrounded by colour and fun, and to create a vivacious environment where where their little imaginations can run riot people gather to recharge, de-stress and take under the care of fully-qualified staff. part in some energetic work outs.

For manager Carrie Kepple, the opportunity to be one of the first of the CBD buildings to reopen is a privilege. “People are really excited to be back,” she says. “We reopened on March 30th and we’ve been really impressed with both our loyal members who have returned and the number of new members who have joined since then.”

It’s easy to see why people are coming.

Bright modern seating, splashes of colour and friendly faces greet you on entry. It certainly feels like you are transported from the grey starkness of outside to another place altogether.

What’s there?

The cardio theatre means those working out can combine fitness and entertainment with the latest in equipment. “There’s touch screens in this room so people just plug in what they want to watch or listen to and they’re away,” Carrie says.

The mixed gym and women’s gym are fitted out with world class equipment – everything one could want to tone up, shed kilos and improve strength. All in air-conditioned rooms which don’t have the slightest whiff of anything unpleasant, thanks to some air ducting ingenuity.

The two spacious group fitness rooms are fitted out with state of the art sound and lighting systems to create the perfect atmosphere whether members are attending a fat-burning BODYPUMP®, rocket-fuelled BODYCOMBAT® or unleashing their inner dance star in a SH’BAM® class.

The RPM® studio is neatly arranged with brightly coloured BODYBIKES®. When the music cranks up, participants pedal up steep grades, down hill and across the plateaus all without leaving the room.

When it’s time to go home, lavish changing rooms equipped with fully-tiled amenities and even a sauna, provide a well deserved luxurious and pampering environment to freshen up in.

The recovery The building had been open about 15 months prior to the February 22 earthquake. But the combination of location in the red zone and the necessity for surrounding buildings to be demolished meant that it remained shut for a time.

There has also been some remedial work which has now brought the building up to an A-grade rating – based on the grading system for earthquake risk as defined by the New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering.

“Put simply this building is really safe,” explains Carrie. “It’s designed to move. The minor renovations ensure the club is of even a higher standard than before.”

There are pluses to this location. There are absolutely no problems with car parking, there are no traffic woes and when you come out revitalised from your work out; it is peaceful.

Carrie is a testament to the resilience and attitude of Les Mills staff. She has relocated from Auckland’s Britomart Les Mills gym to be a part of the new Christchurch redevelopment.

“I just see it as an exciting opportunity to be a part of the redevelopment of the city.”

Carrie invites anyone who is interested in joining Les Mills to come and have a look.

“We’re here, we’re open and we’re going to continue to support Cantabrians by providing a mix of stunning venue and great programmes to ensure they stay in peak condition.”

fire fighting pacific fire fighting pacific

..

Phone 366-7889 24 hours technical assistance Phone 366-7889for 24 hours for technical assistance . .

Fire Fighting Pacific provides design, supply, installation and maintenance of –allFIRE types ALARM of Fire CONTRACTOR ADVICE ONTRACTOR ADVICE – FIRE ALARM Protection Systems available in New Zealand.

This Building has a Fire Protection System, which is installed throughout this site. The New Zealand Fire Service have a policy of charging $1000.00+GST for attending false alarms in buildings, and contractors

working in buildings are one ofisthe highest causes of false alarms.

Building has a Fire Protection System, which installed throughout this site. The New Zealand Fire Fire Fighting Pacific is a 100% Canterbury-owned ce have a policy of charging $1000.00+GST formust attending alarms and and contractors Contractors working on this site ensure theyfalse are familiar with in ourbuildings, Fire Alarm system, must causing activations.

Costs of associated with the Attendance of the Fire Service and/or the Fire Agent ing in buildings are oneavoid of the highest causes false alarms. will be charged to Middleton, the Contractor who causes a False Alarm. By • signing in, you have and 7889 2 Hall Place, Christchurch Phone: 03read 366 understood this information.

ractors working on this site must ensure they are familiar with our Fire Alarm system, and must This sheet has been produced to allow you to recognise some of the equipment: causing activations. Costs associated with the Attendance of the Fire Service and/or the Fire Agent 46the | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz e charged to Contractor who causes a False Alarm. By signing in, you have read and rstood this information.  Heat Detectors These detectors are a simple bi-metal detector activated by heat, but can also be sensitive to

How to get there The entrance to the gym is via Hereford St and into the Liverpool St car park (201 Cashel St). Allow a little longer than usual on your first visit just to get acquainted with the new road layout.

Look out for the Les Mills signs.

What is Les Mills?

New Zealand Olympian and former Mayor of Auckland, Les Mills, started his first gym in 1968. Since then the Les Mills brand has grown internationally while still remaining passionate about improving people’s heath.

With 10 clubs throughout New Zealand and 250 personal trainers and 14,000 gyms in more than 75 countries using the Group Fitness classes, Les Mills has proved its worth through the success of those who use its services.

It has the tools and support you need to meet your individual fitness goals.

What to look for in a gym Thinking about joining a gym but don’t know what to look for – these are the questions you should be asking: • Is it motivating and fun?

• Are there quality facilities and equipment?

• Are there a wide range of classes available at different times?

• Do you get a tailored gym induction and expert advice?

• Are there a flexible choice of membership options?

What are the benefits?

Many people join a gym for a variety of reasons. Some want to lose weight and tone up, others are looking to improve their strength and some just want to get fit.

We all know that exercise plays an important part in leading a healthy life. It’s great for not only physical wellness but also mental and emotional wellbeing. It can increase life span and also improve memory and cognitive function.

As kiwis are living a more sedentary lifestyle, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease are becoming more prevalent within the New Zealand population. This is causing not only a huge strain on the health system, but also meaning a poor quality of life for a huge number of people and stress on themselves and their loved ones. Research has shown the inclusion of regular exercise into daily life can hugely reduce the risks of developing these illnesses.

“Leighs Construction is proud to be associated with Les Mills and to assist with their move home”.

We have a reputation for completing complex and challenging projects to the highest industry standards, safely, on time and within budget.

www.leighsconstruction.co.nz Ph: 03 341 6905 | E: mail@leighsconstruction.com

Focus | Les Mills

“

We’re here, we’re open and we’re going to continue to support Cantabrians by providing a mix of stunning venue and great programmes to ensure they stay in peak condition.

Group fitness Want the convenience of turning up to a class then group fitness may be just what you’re looking for. Whether you incorporate it into your gym programme or just use the classes as your only form of exercise, there is a class tailored for you. Held in purpose-built studios, classes are:

Personal training is assisted exercise that is personal to you. We all need assistance from time to time to help us achieve our fitness goals, but there can be struggles along the way.

It may be a struggle to stay motivated and challenged or perhaps you are not getting the results you hoped. Les Mills personal trainers are fitness experts who will help you achieve your goals and will design an exercise programme tailored specifically for you.

They will: • Design an exercise programme tailored to your specific goals and fitness levels/needs

• Provide you with nutritional and health advice • Vary your exercise workouts to keep you focussed, challenged and motivated.

They can also offer a range of exclusive Les Mills designed programmes as well: JUMPSTART® - a great introduction to personal training – consisting of a series of three sessions with a Les Mills BodyTrainer® BodyTrainer® REVOLUTION – yields weight loss for life. A 12 week programme that is a realistic, achievable route to better health and better fitness for life.

BodyTrainer® CORE – the ultimate in core conditioning. Designed to make you fitter, stronger and firmer.

BodyTrainer® BOX – Combining elements of traditional boxing, kickboxing and martial arts, BodyTrainer® BOX delivers results in 12 extraordinary weeks.

Mon to Thurs: Friday: Sat Sun:

”

5:30am - 9pm 5:30am - 8pm 7am – 7pm 7am – 5pm

BODYPUMP® – the original weights class that builds strength, tones your body and pushes you to the limit.

Personal training

• Show you correct techniques when exercising or using equipment to get optimum benefit and ensure you don’t injure yourself

Les Mills Christchurch opening hours:

BODYCOMBAT® – a challenging mix of martial arts and endurance, unleashing strength you never knew you had.

BODYVIVE® – a low impact, whole body workout using Vive balls, Vive tubes and body weight to boost fitness and core strength.

BODYBALANCE® – a yoga, tai chi and pilates inspired workout that leaves you long, strong, calm, centered and feeling balanced.

BODYJAM® – enjoy the freedom – a cardio workout with an addictive fusion of the latest dance styles and hottest new sounds.

RPM® – a high intensity interval training set to tunes that will get your pulse racing. Get results faster, ride harder and increase your heart and lung fitness.

SH’BAM® – simple, seriously hot dance moves set to a soundtrack of popular hits and dance music. The ultimate fun and sociable way to exercise.

BODYATTACK® – high energy interval training combining athletic aerobic movements with strength and stabilisation exercises.

CXWORX® – a short, sharp workout designed to strengthen your core. Ideal for tightening your tummy, butt and improving functional strength.

BODYSTEP® – an energised step workout using a height-adjustable step. Simple movements with fat burning and muscle conditioning blocks.

Les Mills Christchurch www.lesmills.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Team training For those looking for a team approach where they can work with like-minded people, then Les Mills Team Training is the option. These were created to help get people in shape fast, increase fitness and feeling amazing quickly.

With the support of Les Mills instructors and your fellow team mates, you can achieve outstanding results.

Les Mills BOOTCAMP® – will challenge and commit you to making a change. You’ll be one of a team of recruits who will go through four weeks of physical training exercises, adventure workouts and outdoor drills. There are three sessions a week for four weeks with 20-plus like-minded recruits.

Les Mills LOOK BETTER NAKED® is a women’s only team training programme. It’s a full body programme designed to reduce body fat, improve cardiovascular fitness, increase energy and improve tone. Three sessions a week for six weeks with up to eight in a team.

lewis bradford CONSULTING ENGINEERS

Lewis Bradford has been extremely proud to provide the structural engineering expertise to Les Mills for this building, both originally and for the minor post earthquake repairs.

We are delighted with how this exciting facility has performed, and commend Les Mills for their perseverance in getting back up and running so quickly.

Congratulations once again to Les Mills and best wishes for the future. www.lewisbradford.com www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 47

Focus | J Friend & Co

Golden goodness

Bees have been making honey for more than 150 million years, visiting up to 2000 flowers in a day and at speeds of up to 25 kilometres an hour. Not only that, but one honey bee colony can produce between 30-40 kilograms of honey in a year.

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Sharyn Woodnorth and Jeremy Friend

It’s not just the hardworking bees behind the success of honey. In September 2010 there were 2,944 registered beekeepers in New Zealand, who owned more than 377,000 hives in some 22,000 apiaries. Beekeeping is woven into the colonial heritage of our country, however with 60-70 percent of our honeys being exported, the success of our honey isn’t being realised in our own country.

J Friend and Co was established in 2008 to facilitate the relationship between beekeepers and the public, according to coowner Jeremy Friend. Friend and his partner Sharyn had made a lifestyle move from Auckland a little more than four years ago with their two children, when the idea hit.

“On the way down we stopped to purchase honey off some of the local beekeepers and we made some discoveries which really paved the way for us.”

Firstly, the honey available on the local market was generally produced using pasteurising creaming methods which stripped out both the goodness and regional distinctiveness as they were blended together. “We believed that, like us, if people were introduced to the nuances of the individual honey varietals, dignity to honey as something beyond a generic condiment could be restored,” Friend says.

“The honey from each region tells a poignant story.”

The pair also discovered just how much New Zealand honey was leaving our shores.

Several months of research and honey sampling followed and with a few hives of their own, the pair was able to establish a stall at a farmers market, further cementing their commitment to celebrating the work of New Zealand’s bees.

“We were getting the honey direct from the beekeepers and selling it at the markets. But what we discovered was that people wanted to know where the honey came from, the story behind the honey.”

No man stands alone Like any business, success is a team effort.

“The first thing we did was find a good accountant. Their job is to look at the figures, but they need to realise when you’re starting a new business, you need support and advice, particularly when you enter the exporting arena.

“Glen from Leech and Partners has been amazing; he supports us and believes in what we’re doing. He knows business is more than just numbers.”

YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR MOTIVATION We understand every situation is different. We are here to get the best results for you.

Our philosophy is to provide our clients the most up to date and relevant accounting and business advice. We do this when we see a need for it, not just when you ask for it.

44 Mandeville Street, Riccarton, Chch E. office@leech.co.nz Tel. (03) 366 2203 | Fax. (03) 366 1455

48 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Level 1, 161 Burnett Street, Ashburton E. office@leech.co.nz Tel. (03) 307 6688 | Fax. (03) 308 1203

Labelling also played an important role.

“We had to ensure our labelling was made out of the right materials so it would be recyclable, but at the same time, high quality. Lots of businesses are small, but they often don’t get the support from large businesses in areas such as labelling because we do small runs. Rapid Labels has supported us right from square one. They have been amazing. We know we can always get a real quality product from them.

“Being a small business we have to be careful about our stock holdings; if we are getting low Rapid Labels are happy to get more product to us really fast.”

Carbon Hero It was important to both Jeremy and Sharyn that their honey reflected their own values of honesty and integrity.

Despite significantly restricting the beekeepers they could work with, being certified organic was important to them.

“It had to be organic,” Jeremy explains “Working with a natural product, we wanted to ensure we were giving back to the environment, we wanted to be truly sustainable. Organics is great; it covers the food and packaging, however it doesn’t look at the whole business model.

“We wanted to ensure we were giving as much as we were taking.”

So J Friend and Co became part of the carboNZero certification program. “It is really great to have a business we can be proud of, that is ethically right, and we love the product as well. It’s nice to be doing something we love, ensuring there is a business there for our children, but also ensuring there is a planet around for them as well. We have a successful business, but it’s really successful because it’s giving back.”

So J Friend and Co began telling that story, on the label. “We would write about the beekeepers and where they came from. “It boosts people’s confidence; if they know where it came from everyone is accountable, right through to the beekeepers.”

The company has gone from strength to strength since then, today selling a range of the highest quality honeys from beekeepers around the country. J Friend and Co still tells the story of its beekeepers, and their profiles are all presented on the website.

Successful strategy As a strategy it has certainly been a success.

The company recently won the Supreme Artisan Award at the Cuisine Magazine awards for their Pohutakawa honey, and was also the winner of Small Emerging Business at the New Zealand Food Awards 2011.

“It’s nice for Sharyn and I; we put so much in and go the extra mile to ensure our honeys really are something special, this is something we are so passionate about, and to win awards really shows us that we are doing the right things, we are being recognised and we’re heading in the right direction.”

J Friend and Co 29B Coleridge Street Sydenham T (03) 389 5575 E Jeremy@nzartisanhoney.co.nz www.jfriend.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Focus | Ironic Art

Making their mark on a new landscape On February 22, 2012 masses gathered in the botanic gardens to mark the first anniversary of the 2011, 6.3 magnitude earthquake.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker unveiled a unique sculpture that day; a four metre tall statue of an angel in the memorial garden designed to commemorate the 184 people who lost their lives in the quake. “The sculpture is here to hold and honour the spirits of all who were lost,” Parker said as he unveiled the striking piece of art.

Established during the early 90s, Ironic Art has developed its own style of wrought iron products. The various signs, menu boards, drive and entrance gates are still well recognisable throughout Christchurch and beyond.

- Stuart Sinclair

Stuart with the angel frame he created as a gift to the Christchurch City Council for a remembrance garden.

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It was Kaiapoi sculptor Stuart Sinclair that was behind the sculpture. Co-owner of Ironic Art Ltd, Sinclair has had a hand in some of the city’s most prized buildings; many which are now lost. “Around 2005, we started receiving requests to repair and restore work on lots of the historic buildings in Christchurch for the City Council and even on the famous cathedral in the square,” he explains. “By 2009 we were making the frames for topiary animals for the famous Festival of Flowers.”

Yet no amount of artistic talent could have prepared him for what he experienced in February 2011. Described as “one of the nation’s worst peacetime disasters,” the 6.3 magnitude earthquake which followed the 7.1 magnitude earthquake six months earlier changed the face of the city and surrounding areas forever. Much of Sinclair’s work is now gone. “We were hit hard with the earthquake; it destroyed just about every building that I ever worked on and most of the bars, restaurants, hair salons and other shops that I have made fittings for.”

With a combined experience of more than 20 years in the field and the high quality of craftsmanship of every piece of Ironic Art, the company was selected to play an integral The Ironic Art workshop was also hard hit by the tectonic havoc the region has seen role in the rebuild of the city through the during the past two years and with 12 inches construction of the commemorative statue. of liquefaction throughout the workshop and Sinclair honed his skills in his home town of significant cracking on the walls, they had Orkney, training through the Orkney Youth to move.

Training Scheme, Thurso College and then with Bryan Laughton in his blacksmith’s shop It’s onwards and upwards from here and with at St Clair’s Emporium in Kirkwall. “I enjoyed a new premises at 373 Tuam Street, this is every minute of my time there and I am very certainly one space to watch. grateful to Brian, as he let me use my artistic talents in my work – and also on the walls of No man stands alone his workshop.”

After a few years of engineering, Stuart saw a job advertised at Ironic Art and joined the company. With the owner planning to sell up, in 2003 Stuart and his father saw an opportunity to grow the business. Colin now takes a back seat in the company, with Stuart now supported by business partner, Jaron Tabak.

Protect

“

We were hit hard with the earthquake; it destroyed just about every building that I ever worked on and most of the bars, restaurants, hair salons and other shops that I have made fittings for.

”

So strong is the relationship that the sales rep goes into Ironic Art regularly with morning teas. “They go out of their way for us and it’s the best service I’ve ever had from a sales rep as well.”

Trotter Powder Coating played an equally important role. “They’re much the same as United Steel; they will drop everything and do a job for you straight away if you require it.

They have strong communication and values of pure honesty. Their attention to detail is immaculate, they really make sure the metal is clean before they powder coat it which makes for an excellent finish.”

Ironic Arts Ltd 373 Tuam Street Christchurch T (03) 365 5122 E design@ironic.co.nz www.ironic.co.nz

The success of Ironic Art has involved the support of a strong band of suppliers. With much of the company’s work produced from steel, United Steel has played an important role in that success. “United Steel has always provided us with excellent service; they try to help out as much as they can.If they don’t have something, they will get it for us.”

& Enhance

YOUR VALUABLE ASSETS with QUALITY COATINGS by

TROTTER POWDERCOATING Call Gary on 384 4822 Fax 384 4842 76 Wickham Street Bromley

TROTTER PROTECTED

is proud to be associated with Ironic Art for more information please refer to our website: www.unitedsteel.co.nz or call us on 0800 800 649 Uniting both

STEEL + WIRE

Hi-Tech components our specialty www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 49

Focus | Earth & Sky Observatory Peering through the lenses Cook Astrograph Built by J.W. Fecker in 1936, it was the first instrument to be permanently installed at Mt John. It was commissioned to complete an all-sky photographic survey undertaken by the Universities of Pennsylvania and Canterbury. It is still fully functional but at present is retired from duty.

Nature’s

natural lights

There is nothing more humbling than standing beneath the night sky, gazing up at the stars above to realise just how tiny you are compared to the Universe’s wide expanse of space. As the technological age has advanced, the night sky is often destroyed by our light pollution, making such a remarkable opportunity few and far between for many a city dweller.

Space is Awesome

Earth & Sky in Tekapo provide probably the best view of the night sky in the South Island so be sure to visit anytime your are heading that way.

If you want a telescope for yourself, like the ones we have supplied for use at Mt John, be sure to call in and see us during business hours at 200 Antigua St Christchurch.

Ph: 03 366 2828 | Fax: 03 366 2826 E: sales@blaxall.co.nz

Optical Craftsmen reflecting telescope In 1970 the 60cm telescope was installed at the observatory. It’s primary job is the measurement of light intensity – photometry.

Boller and Chivens telescope In 1975 a second 60cm reflector was installed, which in 1996 became the first equipped to study gravitational microlensing events, where the bending of the light rays by the lens causes the light from a distant star to be amplified in brightness, for 3 – 5 weeks as part of the MOA project.

However, for those needing to take the time away from the concrete jungle and inhale a breath of nature’s fresh air; there is no better place to do this than at Lake Tekapo. Earth & Sky operate tours at the Mt John Observatory, located in the Mackenzie district. The region is renown for its freedom from light pollution and the clarity of its sky. Visitors to the area are greeted by the beauty of the southern stars, meteor showers and the pristine glory of the zodiacal light.

The Mt John Observatory is one of Tekapo’s must-sees. Visitors can drive or hike up to the observatory on Mt John during the day or partake in one of the guided night tours run by Earth & Sky. Day or night it is a treat to see, from the gorgeous daylight vista of Lake Tekapo’s turquoise waters and alpine surroundings to the night time blanket of stars.

Southern Hemisphere and the world’s biggest.

Being awarded the status would ensure New Zealand is a front-runner on the international astronomy and astro-tourism map.

“For Mt John Observatory to operate as a scientific research facility it is important to manage light pollution,” Margaret says. “As a result Lake Tekapo has a light ordinance in place with the Mackenzie District Council. Any outdoor lighting needs to point downwards so as not to disturb the telescope’s imagery.

The road up to Mt John is closed to the public every night to prevent any vehicle movements disturbing the research telescopes.”

The international starlight reserve status means the commitment to protecting the beauty of the night sky and ensuring quality and access to starlight will be protected for generations to come. In addition the reserve will aim to recover and identify the values of importance to the night sky, including its natural beauty and landscape, as well as provide improved opportunities for science, astro-tourism and cultural heritage.

Earth and Sky’s general manager Margaret Munro says being a part of the Astro-tourism business at the Mt John Observatory is a unique experience as there are not a lot of people other than scientists that generally work in the field of astronomy and its related industries. “Having tourism cross-over into this “Our vision is to bring, astronomy education into the public arena, Margaret says. Earth and field of science is exciting,” she says.

Sky employs a trained teacher who has the specific role of developing programmes that The observatory, which is operated by the are catered to match up to the New Zealand University of Canterbury has been open since school curriculum. School groups regularly 1965. Earth & Sky established an educational come through the observatory to learn and tourism venture on Mt John in 2004. have a hands-on experience and see for themselves the science of astronomy.

Acheiving starlight reserve status

Mid-June welcomed the announcement that the observatory is now situated in an international dark sky reserve, one of four in the world. New Zealand’s Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is a first in the

But for those no longer at school, knowledge and learning is provided as part of the specialised tours offered at the observatory.

“We cover what is in space and provide adults with an educational tour of discovery,” she says.

McLellan Dall-Kirkham reflecting telescope This was built at the University of Canterbury’s workshops and was installed at Mt John in February 1986. It is used for a wide variety of astronomical research, mainly in the area of stellar astrophysics, the study of stars and their evolution. It holds the distinction of being the most southerly permanently mounted professional astronomical telescope in the world.

MOA2 New Zealand’s largest telescope is the Japanese-built MOA2, a 1.8-metre aperture f/3 reflector that was commissioned in December 2004. The instrument sports a cooled 80 megapixel electronic camera used for photometry as part of the MOA project and is the largest telescope in the world dedicated to microlensing observations.

Daylight visit One way is to take the scenic drive up to the summit of Mt John, walk 300m up the walkway to the summit where a guide can take you on a 20 – 30 minute day tour that encompasses the history of the observatory and a description of the leading edge research undertaken by the University of Canterbury and Nagoya University in Japan.

For those wanting a two hour scenic tour of Lake Tekapo, in conjunction with an observatory viewing, there is the option of joining a knowledgeable tour guide as they take you around various areas of interest, including the historic Church of the Good Shepherd, the picturesque collie dog statue and the Tekapo A power station before finishing up at the observatory.

Earth & Sky, Lake Tekapo, Mt John Observatory ‘Lake Tekapo Sanctuary for the stars’

BY DAY − Drive or hike to the summit of Mt John for amazing views, coffee or lunch at the Astro Cafe. Take a tour of the Observatory.

SUNSET/DUSK TOURS − The best of all, day, dusk and night skies to view.

MT JOHN NIGHT TOURS − Join us for our famous Observatory Tour. We provide transport, equipment and guidance. Navigate your way around the Southern Sky using telescopes. We will show you amazing sights, neighbouring stars and galaxies.

50 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

P. 03 680 6960 | F. 03 680 6950 | E. info@earthandsky co.nz | www.earthandsky.co.nz

Focus | Earth & Sky Observatory

On clear days an astronomy guide will assist you to use a solar telescope to view the Sun, it is also possible (weather permitting), to view stars in the daytime using a powerful telescope.

Watch the sun go down Arriving near sunset, on one of the sunset tours, offers visitors a beautiful view from the top of Mt John. Watch the sky fade to dusky hues whilst enjoying a dessert from the observatory’s glass Astro Café. Once darkness has fallen guides will take you outside to greet the emerging stars and look into the beautiful New Zealand night sky.

Beauty in the dark

marvel at the closest neighbouring galaxies, the Magellanic Clouds which grace our night sky, along with constellations such as Orion the Hunter and Scorpius. You may also have the opportunity to see star clusters like the beautiful Jewel Box; awe-inspiring planets; nebulae, immense clouds of gas and dust; and distant galaxies which test the limits of human imagination.

The most popular is the night observatory tour, where an astronomy guide helps you to navigate through the southern night sky using a green laser pointer. It’s a thrilling experience to peer through the powerful telescopes and Best time to visit witness for yourself the amazing sights as far Margaret says visitors participating in night as the lens can see. tours during the winter often have improved clarity when viewing the stars as there is These galactic objects can be encapsulated less moisture in the air “But it is very cold forever on your own camera – thanks to compared to stargazing in the summer the assistance of the observatory’s own months,” she points out. Summer is warmer, astro-photographer. “Normal photography making it more enjoyable to stand in the is slightly blurred giving you star trails – but outside air – but as the sun goes down a lot the astrophotography service has a tracking later it is a late night adventure, often stars mount that moves at the same speed as the will shimmer more in the summer due to earth is rotating, enabling the stars to be more moisture in the upper atmosphere. “But captured,” Margaret says. It is certainly an opportunity of a lifetime to be able to explore any clear night at any time of year will still offer an amazing view.” and capture the beauty of space in one of New Zealand’s best spots.

Research facility

Cowan’s Hill stargazing This tour is conducted from a location close to the Lake Tekapo Township, but being on a hill rather than a mountain, is slightly more accessible than Mt John.

Margaret concedes it offers a different experience to the Mount John tours – but you still get to see the same stars. A guide using a telescope will help you to find and

Mt John was chosen as the best observatory site in New Zealand because of its clear nights throughout the year, the stability and transparency of the atmosphere and its uniquely dark skies in the Mackenzie Basin. It is internationally recognised as being one of the best-situated observatories for viewing the southern night skies. It is operated by the Physics and Astronomy Departments of Canterbury University. The Nagoya University

of Japan are involved with the largest telescope on the mountain referred to as the “MOA”.

The telescopes housed inside the domes are actively used by research astronomers and physicists from the two partner universities as well as other researchers from all across the world.

The observatory has over the years contributed to ground-breaking finds in the international astronomy stage. Its equipment has been vital to the combined effort of researchers in the Microlensing Observations in Astrophysics (MOA) project which aims to find objects such as extra-solar planets, black holes and other celestial bodies.

In 2003, the MOA team discovered a Jupitersized planet orbiting a star several thousand light-years away, the first such occurrence to have been detected with microlensing techniques.

And in 2005, confirming the value of such research, a collaborative group of astronomers including the MOA researches found another large planet in 2005.

Earth and Sky PO Box 112 Lake Tekapo T (03) 680 6960 E info@earthandsky.co.nz www.earthandsky.co.nz — Advertising Feature

"The Bidvest Difference"

03 688 2123

49-73 Elginshire Street, Washdyke, Timaru PO Box 2137, Washdyke, Timaru, 7941

www.bidvest.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 51

Focus | Champs Elysees

Beautiful indulgence Luxurious beauty

A natural touch

“Our vision is to show that we are serious about pampering,” marketing manager Amanda Pickering says. “But also serious about skin care, so we have established a serious skin care facility that provides our clients with visible results.” From makeup to beauty products, specialty massages, reflexology, cosmetic injectables, microdermabrasion, IPL, waxing, and luxury spa packages - there’s a treatment to suit anyone.

For many a woman who spends much of her beauty regime, looking into the mirror, lifting a piece of skin here, tucking away a wrinkle there – wishing for a cheap natural cure to time’s touch – look no further. Champs-Elysées Day Spa also offer a range of organic skin and body treatments using pure and natural ingredients designed to pamper and nourish the skin.

Cosmetic acupuncture is one of the newest offerings on the spa’s extensive menu.

Champs-Elysées is one of only two spas in Australasia offering “natural” acupuncturebased anti-aging solutions including safe, effective, non-surgical treatment designed to enhance and lift breasts and reduce wrinkles.

The spa’s products reflect its European namesake with top-of-the-range deluxe products sourced directly from Europe. Its range of skin care products on offer including the French, Matis skincare range, developed in Paris and tested for quality, security and efficacy. It claims to be the best of science and Such enhancements, normally confined to nature caring for every age and skin condition. the world of chemicals and surgeries, are now being done at the day spa by cosmetic acupuncturist and natural therapist David The spa’s makeup range – Youngblood – is Lawn. just as prestigious; a mineral based make-up range which claims to be perfect for all skin What he promises is a safe, effective, nontones, skin types and ages, with the added bonus of being “easy to use and long-lasting”. surgical treatment designed to enhance and lift breasts and erase wrinkles. Both treatments are based on traditional Amanda says what is most popular with acupuncture treatments and work by the spas clientele are the massages, luxury packages and its famous Hauté Couture facial. increasing the local blood circulation while Its front doors lead right through into the stimulating the production of collagen and exclusive world of the famous Champs-Elysées This facial is customised to suit each person’s needs and wants. “Our style of spa treatments elastin over a recommended course of Day Spa, full of luxury pamper packages, make us a unique choice,” she says, “Champs- treatment. massages, facials and anti-ageing therapies.

Elysées Day Spa offer an extra touch of luxury you won’t find anywhere else in Christchurch”. The breast enhancement involves thin disposable needles inserted just beneath the skin; the result is firmer toned skin and breast tissue, with an overall lifted look. The facial acupuncture softens the facial lines, while lifting and firming the skin, through thin disposable needles that are inserted into the skin on the face and body, filling out the fine lines and restoring fresh youthful skin.

Off a tree-lined Merivale path, with its overarching canopy of leaves, is a small driveway cumulating at the door of a gorgeous, little villa with large, soft red-curtained windows.

Tips from the experts For oily, acne prone skin: Acne is a disorder of the sebaceous glands which presents itself in many different forms to varying degrees and affects all ages.

A good range of active cleansers serums and moisturisers – which can be bought at the Spa - can go a long way to remedy the problem, by treating and repairing blemish-prone skin.

For dry skin: Hydration is key, but it can be a problem for many people due to hormonal fluctuations, ageing, diet or just the stresses of life. The spa offers a new Hyloronic Plumping facial designed to restore and plump the skin.

David says, in contrast to surgery, cosmetic acupuncture presents no health risks and is just a fraction of the cost. This holistic approach works to improve general health whilst reducing the signs of ageing and improving skin tone in targeted areas.

A quality service As the CBD came tumbling down the spa was forced to move to its new home in the now flourishing suburb of Merivale. Today it is in its own little niche area just off the main hustle and bustle of Merivale, but Amanda says the spa provides service on a smaller scale without compromising quality.

“We continue to be an exclusive intimate spa.

Anyone looking for a private garden setting and an escape from reality can do so here.

We’ve created something extra special here, an exclusive feel as if you are transported across the world. You can lose yourself in the experience.”

Champs-Elysées 10 Webb Street Merivale Christchurch T (03) 365 3630 E spa@champs-elysees.co.nz www.champs-elysees.co.nz

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10 Webb Street, Merivale, Christchurch

(03) 365 3630

spa@champs-elysees.co.nz www.champs-elysees.co.nz 52 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

The smart way to manage energy Arc Innovations in Christchurch is a New Zealand leader in the development, deployment and management of smart metering technology.

Arc completed the first successful scale deployment of smart meters in the southern hemisphere with its Christchurch rollout of 130,000 meters in 2006.

It is the only provider in Australasia to have developed a suite of communication technologies to successfully cover urban, rural and remote terrains. To date Arc has provided more than 12 million electronic meter reads.

Arc has been a fully owned subsidiary of Meridian Energy Limited since 2003 and provides smart metering services to all of New Zealand’s electricity utilities.

New smart metering technology Chief executive Dale Alloway says one of Arc’s latest innovations is a new pre-paid offering

by Mercury Energy. While the pre-paid GLOBUG service has been available in Auckland for some years, Arc has recently been working with Mercury to bring it to Canterbury.

“What’s exciting for us is that GLO-BUG is a great demonstration of the power of smart metering and being able to provide a fully automated, robust and responsive service for Canterbury pre–paid customers,” Alloway says.

Arc Innovations is also working with Jade Software Corporation in developing energy management software called PowerVision, which will provide energy management services and visibility of energy consumption on a number of portable devices, such as smart phones and iPads.

“Smart metering is about providing more detailed information to customers to allow them to better manage their energy usage.

This is right up there with what’s available in the rest of the world.”

In addition, Arc Innovations is working with Meridian Energy to manage all of its metering services nationally, allowing Meridian to focus more closely on its customers.

Award winning success Arc Innovations’ smart metering technology services has seen the company win two major awards at the recent Smart Metering Australia and New Zealand summit in Sydney.

The awards recognise excellence in smart metering and acknowledge those that play a defining role in moving the industry forward.

Arc Innovations won the Smart Metering Technology of the Year Award and the Smart Metering Service Provider of the Year Award in February.

<

Focus | ARC Innovations Arc Innovations provides smart metering services to all of New Zealand’s electricity utilities.

The advanced meter infrastructure solution Arc Innovations can save money for both utility companies and end users through reducing costs and improving efficiencies. The team at Arc recognises there is no single successful approach to smart metering and takes into account customers’ objectives, business structure and consumer base. Alloway says it’s about making sure its electricity utility customers receive accurate and detailed information on a timely basis, which they can pass onto the consumer.

Smart companies working together Arc Innovations works closely with Oracle, IBM, Vodafone and GE in developing its smart meter technology.

“We work with them to create our solutions – we have some strong working relationships with international players,” Alloway ways. “We’ve been able to create our own profile but off the back of international companies.”

Arc Innovations Limited PO Box 6321 Upper Riccarton Christchurch T (03) 335 5300 F (03) 335 5301 www.arcinnovations.com

— Advertising Feature

What Arc Innovations has achieved • Arc Innovations has installed more than 130,000 smart meters and provided more than 12 million smart meter reads • Arc’s smart meter deployment in Christchurch in 2006 was the first in the southern hemisphere • They provide a full smart metering solution encompassing meters, communications technologies, and a world-class back office systems • Arc Innovations provides a tried and tested deployment methodology that has been successful in some of the most complex geographies in the world • The company is at the forefront of delivering new smart metering services to the New Zealand market.

New Zealand’s largest privately owned IT services company.

Proud to support Arc Innovations.

www.datacom.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 53

Focus | Dunedin Chinese Garden

Retracing history

Garden functions on offer The gardens can cater for your event with a range of authentic Chinese or European food.

Weddings The garden provides an intimate venue for weddings amongst its stunning landscapes and tranquil spaces. Its fourmetre perimeter wall encloses the bridal party and guest in their own private sanctuary to celebrate the special day Cocktail parties A sophisticated memorable setting for up to 100 people to gather and enjoy sipping in a cocktail or two, whilst celebrating a company event, a birthday or a special anniversary Conference Opening Venue Holding your conference registration and drinks at the garden, letting delegates wander through meeting in the main courtyard in a relaxed setting before all the hard work begins Boardroom meetings

Dunedin’s Chinese Garden is more than just a picturesque garden in an Asian setting for casual observers to stroll through; this garden tells of a lesserknown aspect of New Zealand’s migratory history - the two centuries old tale of Chinese migration.

DECORATORS LTD Specialising in

PAINTING WALLPAPERING SPRAY PAINTING AND TEXTURE COATING

In the Garden’s tower room is the ideal spot for board meetings when a couple of quiet hours are needed to work through heavy agendas. Food and drink can also be provided.

The Dunedin Chinese Garden remembers, commemorates and tells the tale of one of New Zealand’s lesser known group of settlers.

Telling the tale It is a story that was long ignored as the mainstream of New Zealand history emerged from the European and Polynesian peoples – yet the Chinese too, were a people who played a vibrant and vital role in the growth of present day New Zealand.

The story began in the middle of the 19th century, both civil and foreign wars, as well as the economic downturn, led thousands of Chinese to flee their homeland in search of a better life.

Cue the 1860s; a tidal wave of Chinese immigrants, mainly men, reached the southern plains of New Zealand. Most of these were men who had left their wives and children back home and were working to find their life’s fortune. Many had no intention of

Proud to be associated with the Dunedin Chinese Garden PO Box 952, Dunedin Email: murraytd@xtra.co.nz Office: 03 455 9949 Fax: 03 455 9948

54 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

assimilating into the kiwi way of life – they were simply trying to earn their wages and send it back to their families.

As a result the Chinese tended to group together in their own communities, characterised by almost windowless huts made of stones, covered with thatch or sack roofs. Some owned shops to supply goods to their own countrymen. The Chinese were industrious and hard working and yet were met with prejudice and mistrust by their European neighbours. Their culture, with its own customs and languages, appearance and dress and the use of opium marked the Chinese miners as different.

Most of the Chinese hoped to earn enough gold to return home – where their hearts and family remained, but many died in New Zealand. Some were lucky enough to be buried back in China, but 499 Chinese miners had a sea-burial when their ship the Vennor sank off the coast of the Hokianga in 1902.

As the gold ran out, antagonism against the Chinese rose; the Government of the day passed restrictive laws including the infamous Poll Tax which increased from 10 pounds to 100 pounds in 1896. This was the government’s way of stemming the tide of Chinese migrants.

Dunedin physician and historian Dr James Ng, who has written volumes around the New Zealand Chinese, paints a contemporary parallel; of Kiwi’s who today have left to work in the oilfields of the Middle East.

“They are not interested in learning Arabic or intermarrying. They mix with their own kind and want to earn the most money in the shortest possible time then beggar off home.”

According to census figures the first wave of immigration to New Zealand peaked at just over 5,000 in 1881, which at the time made up about 40 percent of Otago’s miners.

The subsequent wealth that the Chinese gold diggers generated made a significant contribution to the early development of Otago, although until recent decades this was largely unknown and unacknowledged.

Focus | Dunedin Chinese Garden

The olive branch The Dunedin Chinese Gardens manager, Margo Reid, says one way of commemorating the contribution of the Chinese community, to Otago and the nation as a whole, has been through the garden. “The garden is a living contribution to the Chinese, writing the wrongs [such as the Poll Tax] that need to be righted.”

Margo says the garden is helping increase awareness around culture, significantly raising the profile of the Chinese presence in New Zealand, not just today but historically. “Our philosophy is to educate others about our different cultures and I think the garden does this well.

“It is the first time such a fitting memorial has been created for the Chinese; the first that you can physically see and touch. It is a photographer’s dream.”

The Dunedin Chinese Garden cost $7 million to construct, approximately $1 million was raised through public donations and the New Zealand Government gave a total of $3.75 million to the Chinese Garden’s Trust who brought the project to fruition.

Not “just a garden” A Chinese garden is more than just a garden; for the Chinese, the rocks, the water, the plants and the buildings – all are important symbolic elements. In Dunedin city, the 2500 square metre area was transformed into a one-of-a-kind Chinese garden in the Southern

Hemisphere. It is the only authentic Chinese Garden in New Zealand and is one of only a handful outside China.

This garden in Dunedin is an example of a late Ming, early Ching Dynasty Scholar’s Garden, surrounded by a four metre wall around its periphery. Traditionally the scholar’s garden was the focal point of a family compound, which sometimes gathered several hundred family members and servants into a “gated” community. It was within this picturesque setting that the guests and important visitors were received and entertained. It was the place where the scholar himself – typically a highly regarded member of Chinese society – lived and worked.

In addition to the hand-made wooden buildings, the garden features hand-made tiles, bricks and lattice-work and handfinished granite paving stones. The use of “lake stone” – 900 tonnes of it – represents an essential element of Chinese art dating back to the Tang Dynasty (600 – 900 AD).

“It has been built in a true Chinese traditional style, thousands of years old, with materials sourced from Shanghai and built by Chinese artisans – it’s truly authentic,” says Margo.

The design of the garden evolved over a period of eight years to ensure authenticity and cultural accuracy as well as practical functionality. Its design and subsequent construction was closely supervised and influenced by an architect from the Shanghai Construction and Decoration Company and the Shanghai Museum.

The Garden was pre-fabricated and assembled in Shanghai, with authentic Chinese materials, on a site identical in size and shape to that in Dunedin. It was then dismantled and transported to Dunedin where it was reconstructed onsite, using artisans and supervisors from Shanghai.

Once the garden was completed it was given as a gift to the city and the council to manage and ensure its continued authenticity and integrity as a lasting footprint of Chinese identity and culture. “It is a gift to the city for all of New Zealand, honouring the past, celebrating the present and providing enlightenment on our shared past to the future,” the trust said.

The garden was opened to the public on Tuesday, July 8, 2008.

Strolling through Margo says the garden is young and growing into itself – but already there is lots to see and do. She says one lovely thing about the garden is that as the seasons change so does its beauty – visitors who come more than once each year will not see the same picture twice.

Along the pavements storyboards explain the beauty you see before you, whilst telling the history of the Chinese migrants to New

Zealand. You can also learn more in a 10 minute DVD. Children are invited to attend school holiday programmes or educational day trips.

To truly enjoy the garden she recommends taking your time and spending at least 45 minutes to an hour to take it all in. Wander through at your own leisure or take a guided tour to see the goldfish in the ponds, play with Chinese puzzles and games, try on Chinese costumes, eat at an authentic Chinese teashop whilst enjoying Chinese buns and dumplings and sipping Chinese tea. Top it all off with shopping in the gift shop; for a souvenir to remind you of your visit.

Historical information sourced from: The Encyclopaedia of New Zealand: www.teara.govt.nz Presbyterian Missions Archives: www.archives.presbyterian.org.nz And New Zealand Historic Places Trust: www.historic.org.nz The Chinese Gardens Corner of Rattray and Cumberland Streets Dunedin T (03) 477 3248 E chinesegarden@dcc.govt.nz www.dunedinchinesegarden.com — Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 55

Goods & Services | Global Culture

Helping you make

your mark Photos by Paul Terry

Established in 1974 as a screen printing business, Global Culture has developed into a national brand with 10 retail stores and a growing online store. Best known for its early range of t-shirts depicting clever takes on Kiwi life and our passion for sport, the company’s growing presence is well beyond the fashion front of its early days.

While still manufacturing the same high quality garments, it has also become known for supplying branded clothing for companies, schools, sports teams and events, explains

managing director Chris Brocket. “We have the technology, artists, embroidery machines and screen printing capabilities to develop clients’ ideas into great garments.”

South Island sales representative Michelle Donnelly says “We like to take the hard work out of the equation for our customer” Donnelly is tasked with translating those ideas into both uniform designs and branding or logo concepts. It may be as simple as adding your team logo to a sports uniform, or as complex as designing a full uniform for a large corporate. “One day we might be doing a small run of logos onto shorts for a small local business and the next we might be designing a full retail clothing range for a large scale tourism operator,” she says.

“

You know how your mum used to write your name on your uniform, well Global Culture Group does it now.

”

Those clients range from Versatile Buildings, Black Cat Cruises and Whale Watch Kaikoura to Real Journeys (Fiordland), Franz Joseph Glacier Guides and ADT Armourguard. And that’s just to name a few.

The experienced graphic designers are skilled in creating eye catching designs to meet your requirements, from logos to funky shirt designs; they can turn your vision into reality.

And of course, no job is too small... or too big.

The company is fast and flexible and able to turn out large runs quickly.

Proud to support Global culture

We supply recyclable and bio degradable bags as used by Global Culture.

We are proud to support another Christchurch owned business and wish Chris and his team at Global Culture all the very best in their new premises.

Visit our website at www.flexoplas.co.nz

A recognised industry leader in flooring with vast experience.

Phone: 03 366 7568 Fax: 03 365 4077 Email: sales@flexoplas.co.nz Ph 366 0559 60 Durham Street South www.dominionflooring.co.nz 56 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Goods & Services | Global Culture

<

“

Screen printing process

When someone rings us just to say how pleased they are with their uniforms, or that their t-shirts are selling well, it really does make all the hard work worthwhile.

“There really is nothing that makes us happier than a happy client,” Donnelly continues.

“When someone rings us just to say how pleased they are with their uniforms, or that their t-shirts are selling well, it really does make all the hard work worthwhile.”

It’s a business founded on strong relationships and those relationships are founded on quality products and service. “Often in this business people will ring up with an urgent order. We hate saying no,” she laughs. “So we take the project on board and make it happen. This trust and flexibility is something our clients really appreciate”.

”

Relocation Managing director Brocket admits it hasn’t been all smooth sailing for the iconic Kiwi brand. “Most people that run a business from a Christchurch base will have a new take on what business risk means now.”

The two major Christchurch earthquakes have forced Global Culture to not only shift its factory, but also to review its business strategy and processes. But learning from disaster is a catch phrase now for the team.

“We have become very adaptable and tried to remove risks from the business,” Brocket says.

The success of the relocation was thanks to the great personal sacrifice of the staff, he says. “We came from a factory we had been at for 20 years. We were exceptionally lucky to have the opportunity to move to Sydenham. We were locked out of our old premises for two weeks and then for the next two weeks our staff were in there digging out liquefaction. It was due to the dedication of our team and suppliers that we were able to be back up and running at our new premises just eight weeks after the earthquake.

No man stands alone

“The positive aspect of the earthquake is that it has really bound us together as a team.”

It is not just the in-house staff who are important to the company, a band of loyal and supportive suppliers are also an important component. “We have a strong relationship with our suppliers – they were fantastically supportive from the moment the earthquake struck.”

“Like everyone else in Canterbury, we are over the earthquakes. We said straight after the earthquakes that they weren’t going to beat us - it’s onwards and upwards that’s the way we see it. We are committed to Christchurch and want to be part of the rebuild. We think Christchurch is going to be an exciting place to be in the years ahead.”

It is this band of loyal and supportive suppliers which have played a significant role in the success of the organisation, Brocket says. “Bushnell Builders were our savior following the earthquake. It really was through their effort that we got up and running again so quickly; they were great to deal with.”

And, of course, Dominion Flooring, who provide the flooring in our retail outlets, were very responsive during the rebuild of the factory. “Our manufacturing business is run using software developed by Kudos Solutions. The Fabrix software has been reliable and was quite critical in recovering and managing the business over the last year.

Like any business, business advice and accountancy is an integral part of the equation. “Deloitte works as both our accountant and our business advisors. We have developed a very close relationship with them and have really valued their advice, particularly during the past year.”

“It’s also great dealing with Christchurch businesses when you can, so working with our Sydenham neighbour, Flexoplas Packaging, is great. They manufacture and source all our retail and manufacturing bags; another strong and reliable company which we rely on for our daily operations.”

Main Contractor: Global Culture fitout Completed on time & within budget

Global Culture Group 1 Battersea Street Sydenham Christchurch T (03) 961 7520 E theteam@globalculture.co.nz W www.globalculture.co.nz — Advertising Feature

www.bushnell.co.nz 03 3445972

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 57

Goods & Services | Bella Gifts

Sensory

stimulants

A step into the Bella Gifts store at 83 Centaurus Road in Cashmere is a heightened sensory experience; the sights, the smells and the sounds are enough to make the eyes widen, the salivary glands water and the heart beat that little bit faster.

This boutique gift shop in the heart of Cashmere represents an evolution in the New Zealand gift and homeware market, built on the philosophy of affordable luxury.

Bella Gifts is built on the philosophy of offering affordable luxury. With a wide array of unique and designer pieces of jewellery, body care and beauty products, homeware and gifts for both young and old, Bella Gifts has rapidly cemented itself as a very popular spot in the suburbs. With a new online gift store, its popularity isn’t restricted to Canterbury and gifts can be delivered anywhere in New Zealand, fully gift wrapped.

The quality products which adorn the Cashmere store are handpicked by owner Traci Walker with her flair for fashion and taste. The store stocks a range of designer jewellery from leading New Zealand designers and unique pieces sourced internationally, including many one-off pieces, exclusive to Bella Gifts.

Bella’s jewellery options include the beautiful Simply Italian selection, Love & Kisses, Valentina, Kagi, Pam Kerr and Ange M Jewellery and stunning costume jewellery for everyday wear or for special occasions. But if you thought designer jewellery had to be expensive, Bella has changed the rules.

This boutique gift shop in the heart of Cashmere represents an evolution in the New Zealand gift and homeware market, built on the philosophy of affordable luxury. Selecting a great looking gift from a boutique designer doesn’t have to cost a fortune, nor does it cost more to receive a superior level of service from highly trained staff who will assist you in selecting a product or gift and wrap it free of charge. These are the principles the business is built upon and one of the key reasons it is so popular within the local community.

This popularity is evident in the clientele.

Many of Bella’s customers arrive by referral from previous customers who have spoken favourably to colleagues and friends about the shop’s diverse array of quality giftware, including French Country, Ciita Design, One World Collection and others.

www.pamkerrdesigns.com

By partnering with a number of boutique fashion designers in New Zealand, Bella Gifts has a range of discerning fashion clothing and accessories, from casual to evening wear.

With the ability to accessorise outfits, clothing can easily be updated and varied to suit the occasion or style required.

Goods & Services | Bella Gifts

Earthquake

Bella online

Traci Walker’s tenure as the owner of Bella Gifts started with a shake, rattle and roll, quite literally, but nothing was going to stop her from purchasing the gift store, much less a significant earthquake.

Bella Gifts, located in Cashmere Christchurch, is celebrating the release of its new website with the development of an online store.

With many customers asking how they can purchase gifts when away from Christchurch for themselves, friends and family, Bella Gifts Christchurch decided to allow people to peruse their range of gifts, jewellery, homeware, fashion, clothing and products for infants and babies, from the comfort of their own home. Then, with the product purchased, it is gift wrapped and dispatched to your address or that of your friends and family.

She was just about to put in her offer for the store when the February earthquake hit. It was taken off the market and the store was closed for five weeks. By late March the owners decided again to place the store on the market and Walker was next in line to put her offer in. “Which I did and with the help of the gods, managed to secure Bella the first week in May, Mother’s Day.” The June, 2011 tremor was unrelenting in its destruction of the store; shelves collapsed and stock was strewn throughout the shop. With a son in school at the time, she had the closed sign up on the door immediately before rushing to collect him. The following day she wasn’t alone as the cleaning operation began.

Staff, family, friends, even customers called in to offer their assistance. It was a local response which reaffirmed her decision to purchase the business earlier in the year.

“Bella being online is very exciting. Our first online customer was from Vanuatu,” Walker explains. “Our online store has been incredibly well received with people excited that they can now purchase online for friends and family here in Christchurch, and friends and family nationwide.”

Bella online features: • Special offers • Greater variety of products • Easily send gifts that are gift wrapped and securely posted/couriered

No man stand alone

• Ability to compare prices and product specification

Success is seldom a plight of the lonely. The success of Bella Gifts has been ensured by the hard work and dedication of a loyal band of suppliers.

“Dalton provides us with the most beautiful clothing,” Walker explains.

“Pacifica provides us with a fantastic range of homeware and Waxglo candles.”

• No crowds – shop from the comfort of your own couch • Discreet purchasing.

Pam Kerr is a Christchurch designer who provides a range of unique jewellery pieces, exclusive to Bella Gifts. “She is very accommodating; if a piece isn’t there, she will make it immediately.

They are very upmarket.

“My by-line is ‘affordable luxury’ and that really is what we are all about. You will always find something you want from Bella. There really is everything you could need out here in the suburbs now. It’s a lovely place to come and get some retail therapy.”

Bella Gifts 83 Centaurus Road Cashmere Christchurch T (03) 337 0903 E bellagifts@xtra.co.nz www.bella-gifts.co.nz

Ph. 03 337 0903

Dalton Apparel is pleased to be associated with Bella Gifts

— Advertising Feature

83 Centaurus Rd, Cashmere, Chch

www.bella-gifts-christchurch.co.nz

Jewellery | Fashion | Health & Beauty | Homeware Gifts | Baby & Infants Affordable Luxury in the heart of Cashmere.

www.bella-gifts.co.nz Ph: 03-337 0903 | E: bellagifts@xtra.co.nz | 83 Centaurus Rd, Cashmere, Chch www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 59

Goods & Services | Corporate Wellness

Getting fit for business Traditionally businesses have viewed employee wellness as a way to lower costs and while the cost savings are a very real and very tangible benefit of a healthier workplace, the rewards go far beyond the fiscal benefits.

What CWS offers: • Brand new facility – 100 percent to building code • Fully fitted out gym with functional cutting edge equipment • Group fitness • Corporate wellness programme • Personal training • Health practitioners • Boot camps • CWS group programmes.

The evidence is in; if people feel good, they perform better, Corporate Wellness Solutions co-owner Paul Stead explains. “If they perform at a higher level, so will your company. Despite the mounting scientific research that directly links good health with improved company performance, many of today’s top leaders still need convincing that good health is good business.”

Corporate Wellness Solutions (CWS) was established in January, a culmination of the mounting evidence documenting the connection between personal health and business health. “Following the earthquakes we recognised the need for Christchurch to tap into the connection between individual wellness and business wellness.

“The flow on effects to family and home life is phenomenal.”

The organisation performs a number of functions of the path of corporate wellbeing, Stead explains. “Firstly in the centre we have a brand new gym with brand new equipment and a circuit gym where we run a number of group programmes. Our health and wellness specialist offices take a holistic approach to wellness, working with both individuals and companies.”

For corporate programmes CWS specialists go into a company and identify health concerns, which includes physical, psychological and lifestyle concerns and then implements programmes based on those concerns.

CWS Programmes: • CWS Kiwi Kids • Active Lifestyle • Women’s Wellness • Corporate Wellness • Boot Camp • CWS Mums and Little Ones

As a leading husband and wife real estate team with a reputation for achieving great results!

Pleased to be associated with Corporate Wellness Solutions Whalan and Partners Ltd, Bayleys, Licensed Under the REA Act 2008.

Belinda Ellis B 03 375 4700 | M 027 249 4847 E belinda.ellis@bayleys.co.nz Steve Ellis B 03 375 4700 | M 027 534 9119 E steve.ellis@bayleys.co.nz

60 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

CWS programmes result in: • Improved morale and vitality • Increased productivity and profitability • Decreased absenteeism • Enhanced performance.

Goods & Services | Corporate Wellness Corporate Wellness specialists • Dr Alan Fayter of Optimum Mind Ltd is an international trainer, coach and keynote speaker. He provides world class training and coaching to companies and individuals in leadership, communication, stress management, conflict resolution and self actualisation psychology. This enables executives and companies to perform at their peak and improve their bottom line.

Inland Revenue, Meridian Energy, Airways NZ, The Just Group, CDHB and many more can attest to the effectiveness of training and coaching through Optimum Mind.

In fact, the indirect cost of poor health – such as absenteeism, disability and pre-senteeism – may be two to three times higher than the direct medical costs. In health and productivity management, studies associate poor health with: - Lower work output - Increased errors and injuries The organisation’s establishment has been well received. Members describe the experience as friendly and enjoyable. “It’s a personal approach to health and wellness,” Stead explains. “The people who own the place work in the place. It is important to us that we ensure everyone is happy.

Suggestions which are made are acted on and client care is our highest priority. We offer a new approach to wellness on a corporate level. The companies we have dealt with have had great results.

“The return on investment for companies is significant; the benefits are both tangible and intangible.”

Workplace absences cost employers about $3.9 billion in productivity last year alone.

The direct impact is an estimated average 8 percent of payroll with the indirect impact likely to be closer to 20 percent.

“In a large company, if you can stop each person from being sick just one day per year, it equates to about $300 per person. If you have 30 people in your employ, that’s a saving of $9000 a year.”

Furthermore, the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 amendments has extended coverage to include work-related stress and fatigue. This is expected to increase the cost of absenteeism to employers and is shifting the burden of responsibility for a worker’s health and workplace stress related issues to the employer.

- Lower quality of products and service - Higher rates of disability - Higher workers’ compensation - Higher absenteeism.

It is only when organisations identify their leading health cost drivers, both direct and indirect costs, that they can understand the total impact of poor employee health.

Wellness in the workplace aims to maximise the psychological, social and physical wellbeing of employees as well as to reduce risk to employers. This results in: - An increase in productivity - Improved employee engagement - Reduced absenteeism - Improved employee relations and morale - Increased employee health.

Workplace wellness maximises the psychological, social and physical wellbeing of employees, ultimately reducing risk to employers.

The CWS Corporate Wellness Programme will provide positive changes for you and your organisation. Quite simply, CWS is designed to create a strong healthy environment where organisations understand the importance of providing a healthy home / work life balance for their employees.

• Bodyhum Massage promotes holistic healing possibilities through a range of therapeutic massages, to balance the flows of energy throughout your body, releasing stress and tension on a physical level.

Owned and operated by Anna P. Sandall at 027 229 4886.

• Paul Stead believes that there are three areas that need to be consistent to achieve ultimate health and wellbeing. He uses strategies that incorporate physical health, psychological health and lifestyle to ensure that you achieve optimal results during your coaching sessions.

• Aidan Cocker brings enthusiasm, motivation and keen sense of creativity to the CWS team. As a New Zealand representative he understands hard work and perseverance to surpass levels and reach new heights within the health and wellness industry. He is an asset to the Corporate Wellness Solutions team.

Profitable partnerships The company has been supported by a number of strong and loyal suppliers. Duns Accountants and Business Consultants has played an important role in the company’s success. “Mark Revis from Duns is our business development advisor; ensuring the wellness of our business financially. They keep on top of new trends and are always fantastic to deal with.”

• Toms Downs brings a unique aspect to the CWS team with his years of experience working as a chef in the culinary industry.

This has enabled him to educate his clients on more than one aspect of their health and wellness, allowing him to pursue his vision of a healthier New Zealand.

• Lisa Lilley brings a genuine desire to help people challenge their inertia and achieve their goals. With her martial art background, sessions are fun yet challenging and you will always leave feeling revitalised. While Lisa loves training with all age groups, her specialty is working with men and women 40 plus.

• Health and wellbeing has always been a part of Jamie Bolton’s life. She is committed to making it an exciting process. With years of being a Canterbury and NZ Hockey representative she understands what it takes to overcome obstacles to achieve goals and therefore wants to help other people be successful in any areas they desire.

• Mitchell Ellis is very passionate about the fitness industry. His own experience as an elite athlete in multi sports provides him with an extensive understanding of functional training and what is required to continually improve performance and health. Mitch would welcome the opportunity to design an individual programme that helps people take themselves to new levels.

Niq James from Headspace has been integral to the organisation’s accomplishments.

“Headspace is a really professional operation.

All the people we deal with have the same philosophy and that is really good customer care. Headspace epitomises this philosophy.”

NZ Home Loans have a product called Debt Nav which Stead says is a real personal approach for finance. “NZ Home Loans is a real educational based company. They deal with you one on one; you’re not just a number to them like you are with some other finance providers.

“Our business is aimed at going back to client care. We make sure our members come first, we listen and do as much as we can do make their experiences as comfortable as possible.”

Corporate Wellness Solutions 182 Barbadoes Street Christchurch T (03) 379 7077 E info@corporatewellness.net.nz www.corporatewellness.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 61

Focus | Savoir Lingerie & Swimwear

shifters

The shape

There is nothing more frustrating for a woman than a bra that climbs, wriggles digs and just doesn’t sit still.

To add to the conundrum of an ill-fitting bra, is it just won’t keep things in the right place.

Director of Merivale-based lingerie and swimwear store Savoir, Kirsten Billcliff says it was this unending frustration that led her to starting her own business. “I was sick of having to wear ugly bras that gave me east and west breasts.”

So she set up shop in her garage in Hoon Hay; but this was not to last. “Things got busy very quickly so I opened a store in Beckenham. It was terribly terrifying and exciting,” she says.

Originally from the UK, Kirsten knew beautiful and functional bras did exist. So what she did was search the world for a selection of bras that would cater to most women’s bra issues.

“It doesn’t matter what your size is, everyone has issues around how well bras fit.” And this is where Savoir’s team steps fits in.

‘Lovin’ it all Kirsten says at the end of the day it’s not size or numbers that matter, rather it’s looking the best you can at any size. “I’m lazy, I hate to exercise, I’d rather wear the right fitting clothes that look good, than work out to get smaller. With a right bra I can achieve that; I can make myself look smaller by putting my breasts in the right place.”

Kirsten says the same principal applies for swimwear. “There is a fine line between lingerie and swimwear. I want to know I can look the best I can, at my size, when I am wandering through the pools at Hanmer Springs. It’s what I want to do with these women - I want them to love their shapes as they are right now. What is important is having the right foundations.”

Wear it right The correct foundations can make or break an outfit – so make sure you get it right with the handy tips below:

Finding the right fit The most common problem women face is uncomfortable bras. But Kirsten says such discomfort is unnecessary – as discomfort often means you are wearing the wrong size and shape bra.

Basically Kirsten says a bra should fit firmly around the body, in order to hold everything in the right place. “It should be firm – but it shouldn’t be sore.” It is the band of the bra that does 80 percent of the work, not the straps as is commonly thought. “We have strapless bras in an H cup that you can dance in. With heavy breasts the important thing is to have a fabric that can do some of the work as well as have the right bra cut.”

Changing band size does however mean a change in cup size. Many will go into Savoir and “freak out” when they find by going down a size in the band they go up a size in the cup. “This is quite normal,” she says. “It doesn’t mean you’ve put on weight.”

She tells the tale of a mother who, sick of the way her 30 year old daughter’s breasts looked, brought her into Savoir. She came in with a 12c bra and left in a 10E bra, “she looked great and more in proportion”.

Kirsten adds they do a lot of work with image consultants who are making over a woman.

“By building the right foundations beneath the clothes it can make a great difference.”

And be fun – bras needn’t be all work and no play. “They can be fun and pretty and do the job.”

• Low-cut dress/top – Plunge bra • T-shirt – Seam Free/Moulded bra • Scoop neck top/dress – Balconette or Half Cup bra • High neck top – Full Cup bra • Strapless dress – Strapless bra • Halterneck top – Convertible bra • Sheer or white fabric – skin toned bra.

Instant improvements And Kirsten isn’t just all talk. Having worked in the Miss World circuits herself, as well as having a passionate experienced team, means a woman can walk in and out of Savoir with instant improvements.

Since Kirsten opened shop she has found many women come in without ever having had a good fitting bra. But when they leave the shop they look like they have lost weight instantly – all because the breasts are in the right place.

“I can spot a bra size a mile off,” she says.

“Product knowledge is the key. Anybody can fit bras but what you can’t teach is, A – the experience, and B – the passion. You need to be interested in transforming both how they look and how they feel.”

Kirsten says what is important is to understand why certain shapes of bras fit certain bodies. She adds that honesty is key.

“We will be honest; we don’t let someone leave the shop with something that is not appropriate.”

She admits getting a fitting seems daunting, but “you wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes without trying them on first”. Kirsten says one thing a fitter can do to help is to not use a tape measure. “It’s nice not to have someone hug you while you are half-clothed.

I love shopping. I want it to be a pleasant experience.”

A close call But as much as Kirsten so evidently loves her job, she says there was a point where she almost threw in the towel. After September, like many Christchurch businesses, she had lost everything. With no job and no shop she was left literally driving the streets in search for a new premise. “I contemplated giving it all up. I wasn’t sure it was worth losing out on more family time to do it all over again.”

But in November 2010, she did do it all over again, with a builder, electrician, alarm installer, non-existent doors on changing rooms and new customers, on-site as Savoir opened in its new home on Papanui Road in Merivale.

She says what kept her going was the overwhelming number of calls and emails she got from former clients. “Yes it is worth it, I decided. This is why I do it, I love people I love the relationships you make, we become friends, and you follow them through life’s stages.”

Proud to be associated with Savoir Lingerie & Swimwear • • • • •

• • •

Security Alarm Monitoring – 24/7- Commercial & Domestic Fire/ Smoke, Panic/Duress, Environmental/ Access Control Guaranteed Performance Standards Customised Monitoring Plans Professional links with leading Guard Response Companies, Police, Fire & Emergency Services CCTV Monitoring Free Connection & Maintenance Check No Charge for first 3 months Alarm monitoring Service

Canterbury Owned & Operated

Alarm Monitoring Excellence | 03 374 3424 | www.code9.co.nz

62 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Even as she talked, she is interrupted by a phone-call from a woman who is looking for maternity lingerie. “I did her wedding lingerie too,” she says.

Savoir 176A Papanui Road Merivale Christchurch 8014 T (03) 943 3507 E yourshape@savoir.co.nz www.savoirapparel.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Goods & Services | Cressy Farm

For lovers of

fine pork products Lovers of fine pork can now buy high-quality Cressy Farm products from the farm’s own specialty butcher shop in Christchurch, as well as the popular Christchurch Farmers’ Market in Riccarton.

Only the best pork products Cantabrians looking for the tastiest pork products on the market should look no further than Cressy Farm and Euro Deli Meats. Owners Spencer and Jacqui Johnstone say there is no comparison between their free-farmed pork and cheap, crate-raised, imported pork.

“People can taste the real meat in our sausages and our fresh pork is delicious.

That’s to do with what we feed our pigs and the conditions we raise them,” Jacqui Johnstone says. A lot of people tell us we’re pretty special. We like to have a new product available every six months.”

A wide range of pork products are available from Cressy Farm and Euro Deli Meats, including: • Fresh fillet, roasts, steaks, schnitzel, chops, spare ribs, pork pieces, kebabs, mince and bones • Dry-cured bacon, ham, pickled pork and gammon steaks • Salamis, kranskies, chorizo, including two new flavours, Berliner and pickled pork terrine • Twelve different sausage varieties, which all contain 94-99 percent real meat and are gluten free.

Owned and operated by Spencer and Jacqui Johnstone, Cressy Farm has about 280 freerange sows, which live in open huts in a stress-free environment, without a stall or crate in sight. The grower shed is fully open to the sun on the north side and grower pigs are on sawdust bedding, which is later composted and sold to gardeners, with feed and water available 24 hours.

The Johnstone’s do not use any growth hormones on their pigs, which have access to quality feed and clean water, as well as fresh air and sunshine, resulting in tender, tasty, juicy pork.

Euro Deli Meats Two years ago Spencer and Jacqui Johnstone purchased Euro Deli Meats at 325 Westminster Street, Mairehau.

Jacqui Johnstone says the previous owner, Brian Nieuwenhuizer, has remained in the business as their butcher and is now making Cressy Farm pork products. “Brian has continued making all the products he’s been making for years, plus some that we have introduced, such as cheese kranskies and sweet chilli kranskies,” she says.

“We’re now making 12 different fresh pork sausage flavours. We’ve just launched four new apple sausages – curried apple, date and apple, walnut and apple, and fennel and apple. They were launched at the Farmers’ Market recently and we’ve had great feedback from our customers. There’s a demand for specialty sausages and we were blown away by the amount that we sold.”

Euro Deli Meats is the perfect complement to Cressy Farm’s weekly stall at the Christchurch Farmers’ Market at Riccarton House, which is open every Saturday from 9am until noon.

“People come to the Farmers’ Market because they like to talk to the farmer, see where the product has come from and that it’s grown in an eco-friendly way. We also have customers with certain dietary issues and there’s a lot of awareness of what’s going into food. We grow the pigs ourselves and we’re able to control the whole process, paddock to plate.”

325 Westminster St, Mairehau, Chch | Ph. 385-3644

• • • • • • • •

All Cressy Farm pigs are free farmed, resulting in tender juicy pork.

How Cressy Farm produces great pork • All Cressy Farm pigs are free farmed in a stress-free open environment • Cressy Farm does not use any growth hormones or antibiotic growth promotants • Cressy Farm products are processed with minimal use of unwanted additives • All Cressy Farm products are totally gluten free • Bacon is dry cured and naturally smoked • No premixes are used at Euro Deli Meats and the recipes are their own, so every product is unique to them

Cressy Farm T (03) 318 8131 E Jacqui@cressyfarm.co.nz www.cressyfarm.co.nz Euro Deli Meats 325 Westminster Street Mairehau, Christchurch T (03) 385 3644 www.eurodelimeats.co.nz — Advertising Feature

• All sausages are 94-99 percent real meat • Cressy Farm supplies pigs to other butchers in Christchurch and other areas, but while the fresh pork will be the same high quality, every butcher has their own recipes and ways of making smallgoods.

Award-winning pork Cressy Farm won the inaugural Taste Farmers’ Market award last year for the best producer on the paddock. The awards, which are organised by Taste magazine, are held across a range of different categories and are open to anyone selling their own product at a farmers’ market. Cressy Farm won its award for its pork cutlets, which offer a clean, fresh pork taste.

Proud to support

Cressy Farm With superior pig breeding stock and semen

Free phone 0800 505 353 | Fax: 03 343 7234 E: info@picnz.co.nz | www.picnz.co.nz

Euro Deli Meats is proud to supply and use Cressy Farm free-farmed pork Large range of European smallgoods, salamis etc, made on-site to our own recipes Suppliers to restaurants, cafes, delis and retail Dry-cured bacon, old-fashioned ham Gluten free, real meat sausages and smallgoods Also sell beef, aged on the bone Shop open 5 ½ days Also at Christchurch Farmers Market every Saturday www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 63

Goods & Services | Wimpex

Getting your goods ready for distribution The fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) field isn’t for the faint hearted. It’s as the name suggests, a fast paced environment and much is expected of its packaging manufacturers.

A specialist in toll processing, contract manufacture and consumer packaging of dry foods, Wimpex is a major service provider to the FMCG sector. Wimpex offers a full turnkey service, from the supply of ingredients, importation of high grade flexible food packaging materials, blended consumer packaging cartoning and labeling, with the finished goods dispatched, palletised and wrapped, ready for distribution.

a strong competitive position according to marketing and administration manager Neil Cullen.

Originally from Serbia, Vladan was CEO of his family-owned consumer packaging and manufacturing operation Belgrade for 20 years. The company exported products throughout Europe, before being destroyed during the Yugoslavian conflicts.

He sought refuge for his family in New Zealand where he milked cows and drove buses before taking on a position with Synlait Milk. The desire to have his own business still ran strong and eventually Wimpex was established as a family owned business, operating out of a small plant in Sydenham.

Established in 2008 by Vladin Vukovic and his wife Natasa, Wimpex overcame the challenges of the earthquakes and is now in

Neil met Vladan in early 2010. With a background in banking and finance, Neil had been based in Africa for two years previous working as the regional director for a USA based development agency. Together they doubled the size of the Sydenham plant and just one month after partnership was established, the September earthquake hit.

“The company itself survived unscathed.

What didn’t survive so well was the largely local customer base. Realising we must help ourselves we set about a nationwide marketing campaign so that everyone in the food industry in New Zealand was aware of Wimpex, its capabilities and what we could offer.”

Insulated building systems from conception to completion

It proved a successful strategy. Large corporate brands in the FMCG market came onboard and the business grew so rapidly in the following months that it precipitated the move in March 2012, to a much larger purpose built fitout in Hornby. “We were both used to working in chaos,” Neil notes, “Vladin in conflict and me in Africa. I think that prepared us well and while it was a stressful time there is satisfaction in what we achieved”

Partnerships the pave the way The general ethos is one of a close knit family, customers and suppliers alike. Paneltech and Amcor Cartons are just two of the company’s loyal suppliers. “Paneltech delivered very well when we fitted out our new plant given we were novices at construction project management and timelines were short.

Amcor is a key partner for us given our extensive use of cartons and they are very attentive to our needs. At the end of the day, delivery of a high quality product is a team effort involving ourselves, our suppliers and our staff. We have developed a very good team.”

Today Wimpex manufactures and packages between 3-5 million units for the New Zealand retail grocery market every year and is associated with some of New Zealand’s best known consumer brands. The company continues to expand and has created seven new FTE job opportunities this year with plans to add further staff.

“We can see strong opportunities in the added value processing, consumer packaging and export of New Zealand primary products.

The next move for Wimpex is to expand into export markets and planning for this is well advanced.”

■ Processing & Agricultural Facilities ■ Chillers & Freezers ■ Maintenance ■ Insulated Doors ■ Truck Bodies Proud to be associated with Wimpex Ltd p:

(03) 349 9367

f:

(03) 349 9375

e:

admin@paneltech.co.nz

www.paneltech.co.nz “Over 16 years in Canterbury”

www.wimpex.co.nz

Specialists in the blending and consumer packaging of dry powder and granulated foods - suppliers of food grade pre-printed flexible packaging.

64 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Points of difference FMCG is not only a fast paced industry sector, but it is a very competitive environment.

Wimpex competes with a full turn-key service unsurpassed in the industry. But that’s not all, explains Neil.

“We are a critical part of the customers’ supply chain and this is a responsibility we take very seriously. The best position for the customer is to be able to deliver a purchase order and we take care of every step in the process up to dispatching the product. That is what we do best - leaving the customer free to concentrate on marketing their product.

“Our total adherence to quality and on-time, on-spec delivery on a full turnkey basis sets us apart in the industry. We’ve never failed to meet a delivery, no matter how impossible it has seemed because at the end of the day that is who we are.”

Wimpex packages anything from one gram to akilogram in a variety of packaging styles, including sticks, sachets, pillow packs and is one of few packaging companies with automated machinery for stand up pouches.

Wimpex also imports pre-printed packaging film and pouches for its customers, which increases the company’s competitive advantage. The packaging materials are very high quality, cost effective, and certified food grade by the appropriate international authorities.

Wimpex 51 Edmonton Road Hornby Christchurch T (03) 377 4376 www.wimpex.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Goods & Services | Century Park Motor Lodge

Rated as one of the best

A sumptuous stay Hard work and a genuine Service is special at Century Park dedication to excellence are the ingredients that have made a Brendon Grant says while Century Park’s luxury destination in Nelson one of luxurious rooms are an important part of the overall offering, the high level of service the top rated stays in the region. offered by his family and their staff is the motor lodge’s ultimate point of difference.

Century Park Motor Lodge in Nelson offers the highest standard “I’ve been to places around the world that are great places to stay, but the staff have no of luxury motel accommodation interest in the guests whatsoever,” he says. and a level of personal service that “Our personal service and the connections we is second to none. Century Park have with guests make us stand out.” opened its doors in the heart of Many guests want to experience the Nelson region, but can be put off by a lot of generic Nelson in October 2009 and soon information being thrust at them. “We try to became one of the most soughtfind out what guests are interested in, then after destinations in the region. guide them to specific high-quality activities Luxury accommodation The motor lodge is operated by the Grant family - Ross, Jan and their son Brendon - and has 14 luxurious rooms available.

Accommodation ranges from executive studios through to a two-bedroom unit with a separate lounge. All rooms are self contained and are beautifully furnished and decorated, featuring fresh, modern decors, high-quality furnishings, beds and bedding, and clean white ensuite bathrooms.

Century Park’s rooms have workstations with free internet access, 32-inch LCD flat-screen televisions, designer kitchens, high-comfort beds, Sky television with six channels, airconditioning, a digital safe, a DVD player, a balcony or patio and free parking.

Century Park offers many extras for guests to enjoy, including a computer and printer in reception, free bikes, a book library and complimentary DVD library. Continental breakfasts are available for just $13 per person.

which we have personally experienced.

Armed with this specific knowledge, our guests make informed decisions, and quickly.

A lot of our guests extend their stay because of that high level of service,” Grant says.

“Guests can have confidence that when they come to stay at Century Park they can leave feeling rested, refreshed, and have experienced the fantastic Nelson region the way it should be”

What the Nelson region has to offer Century Park Motor Lodge can help guests plan the perfect stay in Nelson, which has a huge range of recreational activities on offer, including: • Three world-class national parks within one hour’s drive of Nelson, with plenty of walks and tramps to suit everyone • Century Park is located within short walking distance of the Nelson CBD, with shopping and award-winning cafes and restaurants all nearby • Art galleries, quirky museums, a heritage park, culture and craft venues offer something for every taste • Boating, kayaking, kitesurfing and other water activities are always popular, due to Nelson’s fantastic weather and beautiful beaches • Adrenaline junkies can experience many activities, including flying a stunt plane, skydiving, and one of the best off-road attractions in the country

Century Park Motor Lodge has recently been named among the best hotels in the world by international travellers.

It was named the number one hotel in New Zealand and the South Pacific in TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice 2012 category. TripAdvisor is one of the world’s largest travel websites, with travellers rating their favourite hotels online.

“It’s great to be recognised on TripAdvisor simply because it means our guests have really enjoyed their experience with us and the Nelson region, which is our main objective,” Century Park co-owner Brendon Grant says. “Guests no longer rate a property solely on how many millions have been spent on the buildings or if it has a ‘million dollar view’ - they want an experience, and there are many factors needed to achieve that.

Century Park Motor Lodge 197 Rutherford Street Nelson T (03) 546-6197 E info@centuryparkmotorlodge.com www.centuryparkmotorlodge.com — Advertising Feature

• Wine tours and wine tastings can be booked, with fresh local produce used where possible • Nelson offers an abundance of nature experiences, including house and garden tours and wildlife sanctuaries.

www.baysapparelmaster.co.nz

Quality provider of hospitality linen Top of the South Islands leading commercial dry cleaning and laundry operation 0800 379 553 | P: 03 528 1050 F: 03 528 1059

Proud to be associated with Century Park Motor Lodge

Proud to be associated with Century Park Motor Lodge

P: 03 331 7790 | PO Box 720, Christchurch 8140

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 65

Goods & Services | Horton Signs

Signs of business life

Any sign you like Horton Signs can make almost any type of signage required, including: • Building signs of any size, for individual premises or for multiple branches of national companies.

• Free-standing structural signs both large and small. Horton Signs can build the structure, do the signage and install it on site, anywhere in the country.

• Illuminated and neon signs that incorporate the latest in illumination technology and longevity.

• Vehicle signage, from a single phone number printed on a car through to large fleet wrap-around signage and heavy transport vehicle signage.

• Way-finding signs, including small interior signs, road signs and large structural information signs.

Canterbury businesses looking to rebrand, move to new premises or simply increase their public profile should look no further than Horton Signs. The company’s signs can be seen all over Canterbury, raising the image for a wide variety of businesses.

The team at Horton Signs in Rangiora.

A wide range of options Horton Signs is an established Canterbury business offering a full signage service.

The 26-year-old company can design and engineer every type of sign from illuminated, neon and structural signs through to transport and fleet graphic roll outs.

Its main areas of business are building signs, structural free-standing signs, illuminated signs, vehicle signs and way-finding information signs. Horton Signs’ wide range of capabilities provides total flexibility and the ability to customise signage to meet the requirements of their customers.

Sales manager Blair Nicholson says one of the many benefits of using Horton Signs is that it offers businesses a complete solution.

“While some signage is still produced using traditional hand painting, technology has definitely changed, and high-tech solutions have become a much bigger part of what we do,” he says.

“All our guys are highly skilled tradesmen signwriters who can create complex fabrications, as well as still being able to provide handcrafted brushwork when required.”

One of Horton Signs’s specialties is free-standing structural signs.

Business relocations and rebranding The Christchurch earthquakes have seen many businesses forced to relocate to new premises, usually with new signage required.

Nicholson says this can provide companies with a great opportunity to update signage, branding and logos.

Horton Signs is currently working closely with a large number of companies that have new signage requirements on buildings and vehicles as part of the Christchurch redevelopment, but are always looking to forge new business relationships.

The company’s own design staff and account managers enjoy working with external designers, architects and developers in an effort to meet the exact requirements of every customer.

The importance of good signage Signage is one of the most effective and least expensive ways of advertising and it continues to work for you 365 days a year.

The team at Horton Signs recognises signage is often the first opportunity its clients have to create a lasting and positive impression. Signs communicate images and information about what the business is all about, while offering a competitive market edge.

Locally owned and operated for over 25 years with a full on farm/ roadfleet service, covering all of North Canterbury and beyond.

We not only have the ability to build what you want, but also the skill to design exactly what you have in mind.

Manufacturing and supplying high quality canvas and pvc goods.

• Banners • Awnings • Sail Shades • Bar and restaurant enclosures 279 Dyers Road, Bromley, Chch 8140 Ph: 03 384 5625 | Fax: 03 384 5621 E: steve@chch.planet.org.nz www.ascotcanvas.co.nz

66 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Fabrication | General Engineering Repairs | Free measure and quote Certified Skilled Welders And MUCH MORE!

Proud to be associated with Horton Signs Pleased to be associated with Horton Signs

Tyres | Wheel Alignments Mag wheels | Wheel balancing Puncture Repairs | Batteries And MUCH MORE!!

Ph. 313 7950 652 Lineside Road, Southbrook, Rangiora Fax. 313 7905 | Mob. 0274 571 223

www.firestone.co.nz 03 313 6096 | peter@laffeystyres.co.nz

Goods & Services | Horton Signs Horton Signs did the signage on Braziers’ vehicles.

Sign industry awards Horton Signs has received many awards over the years, with one of its apprentices gaining national recognition in this year’s New Zealand Sign and Display Association awards.

Hi-tech printing machinery Horton Signs has a wide range of hightech digital printing technology within its large Rangiora premises.

Caleb Harnett gained a well-deserved medal in the apprentice category for the vehicle signage he designed, created and applied for Waghorn Builders.

“We use the latest latex ink-based printing technology from Hewlett Packard.

While this type of printing is much better for the environment than the old traditional solvent based inks still used by many today, it also provides a higher quality print that is instantly dry for quick turnaround.” Nicholson says.

“The new machine can print 1600mm wide and as long as you want. This has become our main printing method because of the benefits it provides both to us, our customers and the environment.”

This is not the first time a Horton Signs apprentice has gained an award, with the company priding itself on training its apprentices to a high standard.

Other awards won by Horton Signs in recent years include: • A silver award in 2010 for an illuminated sign for Durham Health

“

• Gold, silver and bronze medals in 2009 for a range of different signs, including vehicles

Not all signage companies undertake signage installation to a high degree, but we can install any type of sign anywhere that’s a big part of what we do.

Horton Signs also has a number of different sized vinyl cutting machines and laminators. Laser and router cutting is a big part of the business, offering endless possibilities for creativity and, ultimately, better solutions.

- Horton Signs sales manager Blair Nicholson.

Important business relationships Horton Signs has established strong working relationships with a range of associations, suppliers and customers in an effort to grow in the marketplace.

“A lot of our work for Cable Price goes further than Canterbury but we do the work here in Canterbury and on the West Coast.”

Nicholson says the company works with a variety of high-quality suppliers, including its main vinyl supplier.

The company has also enjoyed long-term relationships with the Gough Group and Waimakariri District Council.

“We’ve had a couple of good clients who have been with us from day one. We’ve been working for Cable Price since before Horton Signs was around, when Gerald Horton was working by himself. He’s been personally working with Cable Price for over 37 years,” he says.

Horton Signs is a member of the New Zealand Sign and Display Association, which is an association of employer craftspeople that liaises with local bodies, maintains apprenticeship training standards and encourages the sharing of knowledge within the industry.

• Gold and bronze awards in 2007 for work on RSA spitfire • A silver award in 2007 for vehicles digitally wrapped for the Golden Homes fleet

”

• “It’s a dog’s life” illustrations, murals and vehicles gained gold awards in 2005.

Nicholson says “We can manage the whole process for the client and make it stress free for them.”

One of Horton Signs’ key points of difference is its ability to offer full installation capabilities. “Not all signage companies undertake signage installation to a high degree, but we can install any type of sign anywhere - that’s a big part of what we do,” Nicholson says.

While most of Horton Signs’ clients are located in Canterbury, the company does work for a number of national clients which have multiple locations throughout the country. “We have the ability to manage and install signage anywhere in New Zealand,” Nicholson says. “We produce the work here in Christchurch and then ship it for installation.”

Complete project management Horton Signs’ strengths lie in its hugely talented team of qualified and skilled sign engineers and fabricators, who bring a quality focus to every project, along with economic efficiency and timely results.

Good vehicle signage is an effective form of advertising.

End-to-end project management is a big point of difference between Horton Signs and many of our competitors.

“My role and that of the other two in my team is more of a signage consultant and project manager. We help create the concepts, as well as deal with council compliance for building and resource consents where needed.”

With a background in hands-on signage creation and a Bachelor of Industrial Design, Nicholson and his team oversee each project from start to finish ensuring solutions are both beautiful and practical, as well as cost effective.

Choosing to work with Horton Signs means customers only have to deal with one contact for the duration of the project.

From brilliantly designed and engineered illuminated and structural or neon signs, through to transport and fleet graphic roll outs, buildings and multi-site projects, Horton Signs can make it happen, on time and within budget.

Plastic Sheets | ACM Panels | Signage Fixing Systems

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Phone: (03) 341 0248 | Fax: (03) 341 0257 | Email: christchurch@psp.co.nz | www.psp.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 67

Goods & Services | Horton Signs A brief history of Horton Signs When Horton Signs was formed 26 years ago all signwriting was done by hand, but the company has grown with the industry and established a reputation for quality and innovation along the way.

Horton Signs was formed in Rangiora in 1986

by Gerald and Rosie Horton, who established a traditional sign writing company which undertook a lot of freestyle signwriting.

The Hortons originally operated from a shed on their property but soon moved to a small bungalow building in Ivory Street. In 1998 that building was removed and a new purposebuilt building was constructed. In 2001 an extension was added to create what is widely regarded as one of the South Island’s leading signwriting business facilities.

Horton Signs grew steadily from its inception and today employs 14 staff. It is now run

by Gerald and Rosie’s son Mat Horton and sales manager Blair Nicholson. Having lived and breathed signage from a young age, Mat Horton’s experience is invaluable when dealing with the production side of the business.

Horton and Nicholson operate a high-tech, full-service, sign design, manufacturing and installation company.

Horton Signs has cemented its reputation as a well-respected signwriting business that is

highly regarded throughout Canterbury, and increasingly, nationwide.

The company did this signage for the Bangalore Polo Club.

Horton Signs is a leader in illuminated signage

As well as its high-quality sign products, the company is respected for its involvement and input into industry training, industry association and award-winning excellence.

Horton Signs is home to a huge amount of industry knowledge, due to the experience of its owners and staff and the “tricks of the trade” they have learned along the way.

Nicholson says: “Every signwriting job involves designing solutions that are unique, with no two projects the same.

Illuminated lighting developments

“It’s about designing a solution that fits that particular need. It’s about having a deep pool of knowledge to draw from,” he says.

The area of illuminated signs is particularly exciting for Horton Signs, with signage moving away from traditional neon signs to LED.

“With an in-house designer and highly knowledgeable staff we have the creative ability to come up with unique solutions for people.”

“That’s been a big shift in the last couple of years and really offers the client longer lasting signage and with greater energy efficiency,” says Nicholson.

Horton Signs does not simply offer a pricebased service.

“We won’t just give customers the cheapest option. At Horton Signs we aim to provide a range of options and solutions, and we are happy to sit down and explain the pros and cons for each possibility. We aim to deliver a quality product that’s going to last.”

“They’re so much cheaper to run, which has been a big push for us. A lot of those types of signs are also in places that aren’t that easy to access. If the illuminated sign isn’t going to need any maintenance for a number of years, rather than a sign that needs a lightbulb changed quite regularly, it offers a greater benefit to the customer.”

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• Dedicated signage consultants who will visit you on site to determine your needs and how they can best be met.

• One point of contact to liaise with during the duration of your project • A focus on quality materials and workmanship to ensure your signage lasts

PANEL BEATING SPRAY PAINTING Insurance & private work

Canterbury businesses choosing to have their signage needs met by Horton Signs will find the process easy and seamless, due to:

• A full end-to-end project management service for a stress-free experience and assistance with all the hard work such as council consents and traffic management

Rangiora

High Standard of Workmanship

Offering a seamless service

Straight-N-Paint is a Collision Repair Association (CRA) structural repair shop We can fix anything from a minor scratch to a major smash repair.

42a Newnham Street, Rangiora, Chch Ph: 03 313 4113 | straight-n-paint@xtra.co.nz

• Innovative, creative professionals backed by 26 years of industry experience • A free quoting service is available for all of Horton Signs complete design, manufacture and installation services.

Horton Signs Limited 85 Ivory Street Rangiora T (03) 377 2000 F (03) 313 6131 www.hortonsigns.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

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Solar Gard LowEwindow film provides a new retrofit option that gives standard glass the performance of insulated glass,at a cost savings of up to 80% over replacement windows.

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68 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

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Solar Gard Low E film also provides additional benefits such as: •

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Contact Specialty Window Films today to find out more information and to schedule a FREE on site consultation Tel : 0800 TINIT4U (846 848) Email: sales@swfilms.co.nz www.solargard.co.nz

Goods & Services | Mainpower

Empowering people Powerful relationships

on the field than they have and they will continue to play a significant role in helping us manage the biodiversity of this project.”

Success is a journey, not a destination, or so the proverb goes. Like most success stories, that of MainPower has been a team effort.

Lying comfortably across the prevailing westerly winds of the area long known as the ‘Roaring Forties,’ New Zealand is understood to have one of the best wind energy resources in the world.

Nestled between the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean, the Canterbury region is well placed to harness this energy.

MainPower New Zealand Limited, which has been distributing electricity throughout the North Canterbury and Kaikoura regions for more than 73 years, has just received consent to build a wind farm in the region, according to MainPower generation manager Andrew Hurley.

“Our key focus is ensuring a safe and reliable supply of electricity into the homes, businesses and facilities across our region.

Community consultation has taken place in the region over a number of years to assist neighbours and members of the broader communities to gain an understanding of what is being proposed.”

The proposal is for a wind farm to be situated on 7.5 km of ridge running north-east from the summit of Mt Cass, a prominent hill 6 km south east of Waipara.“Mt Cass is one of a number of sites where we monitor wind around North Canterbury and it is by far the best in terms of wind resource. Its proximity to the main highway and isolation from housing makes it an ideal site for a wind farm.”

MainPower applied for consent at the end of 2007 however, environmental concerns saw the initial application turned down. The company made dramatic changes to the proposal and after 18 months of mediation, the application was accepted. “We have designed the wind farm to fit in with the environment, creating very little disturbance.

Not only have we committed to such little impact, we have also developed a biodiversity

offset where we make up for the remaining impact.”

The biodiversity offset plan will include supporting and maintaining rare and threatened plant species, pest control and management of grazing for the environmental benefit of the site. A walkway which opened up on Mt Cass in recent years never quite got to the actual summit.

“During construction we will have an impact on the walkway, so in reparation for that impact we will extend the walkway 2km which will allow people to view the limestone formations. We will also design a biodiversity trail with signage describing the plants and animals which live in the area. We will be increasing the educational and recreational opportunities for the area while enabling more people to see it.”

Despite gaining consent, Hurley says there are still a number of processes which need to be carried out before the build, including two years of regular monitoring of bird populations and ground water monitoring to ensure there will be no negative impact to underground water supplies. This puts the earliest construction time to November 2013.

Courting controversy

Response Planning is an independent planning consultant which deals with resource management planning.

“Response Planning certainly lives up to its name; it is a responsive company which does what they say they will and when they say it, very efficiently. Jane Whyte has been with this project since 2005 and we are very pleased with their work.”

Virtual View is a 3D modelling company which produced photo simulations on a real background to demonstrate the completed project. “They have been to the site a number of times under all conditions from dawn to dusk. They have done a fantastic job for us.”

Environmental consultancy Golder Associates has been involved with the project since 2006. “Their ecologists have been a critical component of getting the consent; no one has spent more time

A wind farm consent process incites clashing viewpoints. Often the key concerns are noise levels. However Hurley explains that in New Zealand this shouldn’t be such an issue. “In some countries noise standards are less stringent than New Zealand. The result is wind farms are built closer to housing.”

For the most part, he says, people are accepting. “They recognise that we are getting energy from a renewable source and that these sources will help offset rising prices from gas-fired generation.

There is certainly a preference over coal.

Once the wind farm is up and running we hope that people will be a lot more accepting, as they experience the site for themselves.

“The Mt Cass wind farm has the potential to provide all the power needs from Kaikoura to Hanmer to Amberly.”

When construction does begin, it will be the biggest construction project ever seen in the Hurunui District, Hurley explains, with predicted spending of between $15-20 million per year, for two years. “This spending will be Canterbury wide, including building roads, power lines and the substation. The turbines, at between $60-100 million, depending on the model, are on top of this.”

Currently the MainPower region, which includes the Waimakariri, Hurunui and Kaikoura Districts, spends about a $1 million every week on power bills. “That is money which is leaving the district. Part of our motivation for the Mt Cass project is to capture some of that money and circulate it back through the community.”

3D VISUALISATION SPECIALISTS

Our 3D photo simulations energised Mainpower’s Mt Cass windfarm

Proudly supporting MainPower

03 3327449 | www.responseplanning.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 69

Business & Development | RX Plastics

The pioneers in

plastic applications It has been more than one hundred years since the invention of the first plastic product and today plastics play an important role in modern life based on their strength, durability and versatility.

The very qualities which have secured plastic’s position as one of the most commonly used artificial materials are the same attributes which have ensured the success of RX Plastics; a company which has formed a reputation as strong, durable and versatile as the product it supplies.

During the last four decades RX Plastics has grown into New Zealand’s leading manufacturer of irrigation products, water storage tanks and effluent disposal systems.

Established in Ashburton in 1972 by Don McKenzie, Hank and Kate Murney took over the reins just a few months later, continuing to push for the excellence and innovation the company had been founded on.

RX Plastics was designed to meet a niche market in plastic freezer bag ties, but within a few years of opening its doors, it had expanded its repertoire to include injection molding and extruding processes. The

A MAX Tank

company continued to explore new fields, including polyethylene pipe extrusion, irrigation fittings, roto-molded products and PVC piping.

Today RX Plastics is New Zealand’s premier supplier of plastic products for water transport and storage, manufacturing a range of highquality pipes, tanks, troughs and fittings. The company’s products are ideal for use in rural and lifestyle water and waste reticulation, and underground infrastructure reticulation such as water and electricity, explains managing director Shaun Cawood.

“We’ve got extrusion for both PE and PVC, we’ve got roto-mold for various products such as troughs and small tanks and barrels and we have injection molding which produce pipe fittings,” he says. “We’re in several different manufacturing disciplines which allows us to provide access to a very wide product range.”

Adams Sawmilling Co Ltd Your Local Timber & Firewood Merchants

MANUFACTURERS OF TIMBER BOXES & PALLETS

KENNEDY CARRIERS

NEUMANNS TYRES Wish to Congratulate RX Plastics on their 40th Anniversary

And ISPM 15 accredited for Export Pallets.

100% Mid Canterbury Owned & Operated So for all your pallet or box requirements, no matter how big or small, give Wayne a call today at Adams Sawmilling.

Also Manufacturers/Suppliers of • FARM IMPLEMENT SHEDS • IRRIGATION PUMP SHEDS Malcolm McDowell Drive, Ashburton Ph (03) 308 3595 Fax (03) 308 5649

70 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

General Freight & Plant Reliable Family Owned Business Weekly from Nelson, Motueka & Blenheim to Christchurch & Dunedin Arch 0274 434 636 • Jimmy 0274 943 893 Ph/Fax 03 437 1622

197 Wills Street, Ashburton Phone 03 308 6737 (24hrs) www.neumannstyres.co.nz

Sparkle ‘n’ Shine Ring Murray Brown 03 308 1056

Mob: 0274 915313 | E: muzzab2@xtra.co.nz

4 Manse Place, Ashburton

A sparkling job from top to bottom and we do it right

Business & Development | RX Plastics

“

I believe K-Line installed and used correctly is the environmental solution to the national issue of increasing diary effluent.

RX Plastics managing director Shaun Cawood

Why choose RX?

Pioneering products Agricultural pasture makes up almost 40 percent of New Zealand’s total land area, making the effluent runoff from these farms an environmental hazard.

The nutrients in manure wash into waterways when it rains, the nutrients feed algae which flourishes and chokes off other pond life, destroying the natural environmental cycle.

Governments and councils have instituted harsh penalties for farmers allowing runoff into the water system in order to prevent this from happening.

Farmers are constantly seeking new and innovative ways to handle effluent, however this often results in reduced farm sizes and farmers think twice before expanding their farms.

RX Plastics’ innovative K-Line irrigation system offers a solution that is both efficient in effluent control and environmentally responsible. With a vegetative treatment system, farmers are able to meet their environmental regulations without sacrificing growth potential. The K-Line irrigation systems are not only cost effective, but also easy to use.

Farmer Richard Baumert was able to meet local environmental responsibilities by installing a K-Line farm irrigation system to work with his vegetative treatment system.

The treatment system is designed to manage runoff by diverting it to a settling basin, where the solids separate and sink to the bottom. The liquid on top is then transported

to a vegetative treatment area; a patch of grasses that will absorb the effluent.

These treatment systems have been around for some time, but traditionally involved complicated structures. The K-Line irrigation lines, however, are easy to install and adjust.

“The neat thing about it is the groundwork didn’t (even) take half a day,” Baumert notes.

With the irrigation equipment in place, effluent drains into a basin and is then pumped out within 36 hours to a vegetative treatment area, where it is absorbed without entering into public waters. The grasses, which cover a plot equal in size to the feedlot, absorb the nutrients of the effluent before it enters the ground water.

Because K-Line uses a low-pressure system to distribute effluent, it can be used on wet soils, where using another irrigator would result in ponding, runoff or leeching. This resolves another common problem in effluent disposal: what to do in wet weather. Because of K-Line’s low-pressure distribution method, it can run on wet ground for 24 hours without resulting in pooling or runoff.

Good irrigation is all about getting the right amount of water to the right area with as little cost and effort as possible. A simple principle, yet most irrigation systems on the market are expensive, complicated and result in pooling and run-off. No wonder many farmers choose not to irrigate and instead buy expensive hay and feed for their herds when pastures are dry.

”

There has been a flood of new products designed to incorporate the range of situations. RX has put specialised effluent sprinklers with larger versions of the pods necessary to provide the higher stability required. MAX80, MAX70 and the MID pod ranges were born. It has also launched innovative weeping walls made from PVC to help separate the solids from the liquids.

RX Plastics looked at the dairy effluent issue and identified K-Line pods as the natural answer to the problem of low application rates being sought by many council and environmentalists.

“Many systems in operation today have reasonable average application rates, but the instantaneous application rates are excessively high, RX Plastics managing director Shaun Cawood explains.

Weeping walls have traditionally been made from wood which is not an inert base and therefore swells and moves depending on the localised moisture levels present on the wall. While this product looks relatively straight forward RX Plastics has completed considerable design loading work to ensure it is up to the task of holding an effluent pond back. This computer driven design work is reflected in the size, shape and orientation of the panel. These panels are made on specially designed jigs ensuring the gaps are consistent right the way through the panel.

“This can lead to surface flow, soil surface matting, discharge to tile drains or subsurface aquifers depending on the soils and situations involved. With K-Line we can achieve rates 1/6th what is considered normal yet still move the volume of effluent required. What we did was ask a lot of questions and go onto the farm to trial and adapt our K-Line range to effluent dispersal.”

“We are proud of the results. Our focus is practical solutions for practical people.”

The product range is flexible enough to suit individual farm needs. This can be from low frequent applications on wet soils to higher flows on more forgiving soils.

In all cases the company has stuck by the principle of providing a solution with a low instantaneous application rate.

“Every time an environmental engineer specifies a product, they put their company’s reputation on the line. With the RX weeping wall panels they can trust they will get consistency. I believe K-Line installed and used correctly is the environmental solution to the national issue of increasing diary effluent.”

DUST EXTRACTION AND MATERIAL HANDLING

Suppliers of quality materials and equipments to the plastics industry of New Zealand Proud to be associated with RX PLASTICS LTD Auckland (09) 526 2700 • Wellington (04) 566 0700 • Christchurch (03) 379 4271 Email: sales@tclhunt.co.nz • www.tclhunt.co.nz

Christchurch Ph 03 366 8255 Email: sales@vortexeng.co.nz Web: www.vortexeng.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 71

Business & Development | RX Plastics

The K-Line RX Plastics - Fast facts

The RX Plastics product range is constantly developing as the company strives for excellence in innovation. The latest acquisition to that range is the K-Line range of irrigation systems which are designed to handle effluent issues.

• Celebrating 40 years at the forefront of the industry • Started manufacturing freezer ties • Founded on excellence in innovation

RX Plastic’s patented K-Line technology is a unique system designed for irrigation. The system uses flexible tubing line and a pod sprinkler system. The core of the system is a series of durable pods that protect a sprinkler.

The sprinkler is attached to a resilient but flexible polyethylene pipe.

These low-pressure, slow-absorbing effluent irrigation systems are the ideal solution for rural communities where they can be used to take care of farm waste disposal and effluent distribution.

“Our feature product is called the K-Line, and we’ve just expanded that K-Line range to provide quite an innovative solution, particularly to dairy effluent,” Cawood explains.

The K-Line is a flexible hose-line sprinkler system that was originally designed for use in pasture irrigation. However, the low application rate means the K-Line system is well suited for effluent distribution.

“Essentially the K-Line irrigation system consists of a sprinkler encased in a pod, which gives it protection from animals and enables it to be moved with ease. It is typically dragged behind a four-wheeler while the sprinkler is still going,” Cawood adds.

• Expanded into injection moulding and extruding • Premier supplier of products for water transport and storage • Manufacturer of high quality pipes, tanks, troughs and fittings This low maintenance system is easy to use and can be moved around with minimum effort. The K-Line Irrigation System comes in at low capital cost. The K-Line was invented in Waimate, and is currently distributed throughout Australia, South Africa, the US, and Canada.

The K-Line irrigation system should be run on low pressure and is designed to distribute effluent liquid using a slow absorption method for up to 24-hours. This eliminates the need for farmers to have to shift irrigation several times a day and also maximises absorption into the soil, reducing run-off and pooling.

“We’ve expanded that K-Line range to incorporate a variety of larger sprinklers and larger pods, particularly for the dairy

72 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

effluent market,” Cawood says. “Dairy effluent dispersal has been a problem as the dairy industry has grown, causing more runoff to enter into streams and into groundwater through more traditional irrigation streams.”

The K-line product range has been a major focus for the company for the last six to eight months. In that time RX Plastics has expanded the product mix so that the all-new K-line will meet the market demands of consumers in the farming and agriculture industry.

“We’re in a phase of product refinement right now, we feel that we have a pretty comprehensive range and we’re perfecting it,” Cawood says. “It covers most applications that we’ve come across, particularly in the dairy market. This is also targeting industrial waste dispersal as well.”

• Winner of numerous awards for excellence and innovation • RX Plastics has succeeded in breaking into several overseas markets • Continues to play a significant role in the rebuild of Christchurch city • Designs and manufactures an earthquake proof septic system • Manufactures residential, commercial and industrial products for water storage • Manufactures polyethylene pipe extrusion, irrigation fittings, rotomoulded products and PVC piping.

Business & Development | RX Plastics Mutually beneficial relationships

Great for graziers The innovative K-Line irrigation system is gaining popularity with graziers around the world. Pasture farmers have specific needs for their irrigation pipes, including a system that is adaptable to different terrains, easy to move and disperses water without pooling or runoff. An irrigation sprinkler system that can adapt to all of these conditions is a useful tool for any pastoral farmer.

pressure sprinkler system, so water absorbs slowly into the soil and reduces the chance of runoff.

A typical pasture is irregularly shaped, with rolling hills. While these conditions are ideal for raising sheep and cattle, they can be difficult to irrigate. When it comes time to rotate the irrigation pipes, moving the system onto a hill can be time-consuming and complicated. K-Line irrigation resolves this problem by with its unique design.

After adopting the K-Line irrigation system, Steve Gruell was able to reduce the amount of grain he needed to feed his herd of Jersey cows. He also plans on extending his grazing season through the use of his new irrigation pipes. With the help of durable, reliable and flexible irrigation pipes, Guell looks forward to a profitable future.

This revolutionary irrigation sprinkler system is made by connecting hard plastic ‘pods’ containing sprinkler heads with flexible poly pipe. The result is a durable system that can be transported, or even run over with a tractor or a truck, with no risk of damage. Because of their unique design, K-Line irrigation pods remain upright when moved, so they can easily be towed behind a truck or an ATV to move from one paddock to another in under five minutes.

Graziers also need to be aware of the potential for pooling and runoff. Farmers can do environmental damage and often face fines when effluent runs from pastures and into the water supply. K-Line operates a low-

With proper farm irrigation, pastures can improve their yield. In addition to the quantity, farmers notice improvements in the grass itself. “I’m getting better quality pasture,” states grazier Steve Gruell, “which is more important than yield.”

The old adage that no man stands alone is very true of RX Plastics. The company’s success has been a group effort with strong support from a loyal base of suppliers, according to managing director Shaun Cawood. “We are a strong company in the rural market, but in order for us to have consistency in product and reliability in delivery, we need a strong supply chain across the board.

“We couldn’t do what we do, without those companies which support us.”

RX Plastics particularly values the continued support of Borouge New Zealand which supplies the polyethylene which is the base material for much of the company’s piping. “The applications

of polyethylene mean we need tight quality control in order to have a consistent product. There is a lot of technology involved in this and Borouge is a high quality, innovative supplier to be involved with.”

Burnell and Son Transport ensures that product gets to and from RX Plastics quickly and efficiently. “Transport firms interact directly with our customers, therefore they are an extension of RX Plastics. It is absolutely vital we have a strong transport company for this role.

“Burnell and Son Transport are a strong and reliable company to deal with and we are happy to have them operating as an extension of our business.”

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Business & Development | RX Plastics

Market moves The demand for this innovative new line of products has been steadily rising globally. The company is currently looking to tap into new markets outside of New Zealand. “We get a lot of interest in New Zealand, but there has also been a lot coming from other parts of the world including in the US where it is really starting to grow,” Cawood says.

“The market has been waiting for a solution to this issue and here it is.”

RX Plastics will be well equipped as it promotes its new product line abroad. The company already has a partner manufacturing company based in North America. “We do have an American company that we are associated with called K-Line North America, so the irrigation side has been based in North America and sold there for quite a while now,” Cawood explains.

“Essentially what we are doing though is introducing this expanded range of products into that marketing and distribution channel.

So we’re anticipating quite a bit of growth in America through that exposure.”

Today RX Plastics has a head office and two manufacturing plants in Ashburton, with a third complementary manufacturing plant in Hamilton. “Essentially we are in the heart of core customers, which allows for excellent distribution facilities throughout New Zealand,” Cawood says.

RX Plastics has succeeded in breaking into several overseas markets, with their innovative products such as their K-Line irrigation system as well as their branded irrigation fittings.

Innovative irrigators RX Plastics Ltd is New Zealand company specialising mostly in plastic products for water transport or storage. The company was established in 1972 in Ashburton, New Zealand and now has distribution centres in North America, Australia, South America and South Africa. RX Plastics designs and manufactures the K-Line Irrigation product range, parts of which are patented in New Zealand, Australia, USA, South Africa and Canada Seasonal droughts cause significant destruction on a farm, leaving farmers helpless against their harsh climatic conditions. Dairy farmer Aaron Casey knows all too well the devastation droughts can wreck on a farm. “I knew what grass could do if it had water,” Casey says. “If we could just somehow catch this water and use it when we needed it.”

The options offered on the market are often unaffordable and many can’t justify the cost of irrigation. However, that’s not the case with RX Plastics’ K-Line Irrigation. For less than $10,000 including the cost of digging the pond, the K-Line equipment and installation labour, Casey was able to install a full K-Line irrigation system.

Not knowing what the success rate would be at such an affordable rate, it was a cheap enough risk to take. “I knew that as long as I could keep that grass from going dormant, I had a chance to feed my cows,” he explains.

It’s a truly simple system; made up of sprinkler heads protected by durable plastic pods and connected by flexible poly pipes, the K-Line system can be used on any type of terrain and any sized paddock. Unique construction allows the unit to be towed behind a utility vehicle, truck or tractor, even driven over by any of them without being damaged. Its low maintenance design

74 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

saves times and energy and installation is so straightforward that most farmers do it themselves in just a few hours; rotating the lines is just as easy.

Casey was attracted to the K-Line’s ease of use, like most farmers he doesn’t have spare hours to operating and managing a complex system.

Not only is the K-Line irrigation an affordable option, it uses a revolutionary low-pressure dispersal process through its sprinkler heads.

This results in ideal absorption of the water, which nourishes grass and avoids pooling. It also reduces the number of times the system needs to be rotated, further reducing the labour involved in managing the system.

Quite simply, it uses less water and what it does use, it uses more efficiently.

While the low cost of installation and maintenance of the system is what appealed to Casey, he is even more impressed by the unit’s overall value. He added up the total cost of the system, worked out what he saved on buying in feed and considered the improvement of milk production from his healthier pastures. “It looks like I paid for the pond in one year.”

A key issue with traditional irrigation systems is the difficulty to adjust the machine for an expanding farm. The K-Line system allows farmers to add new lines with as much ease as it takes to install in the first place. Now farmers are not restricted by their original investment when they choose an irrigation system.

When Casey first used his K-Line unit, he only irrigated a small portion of his pastures.

“Now that I know what the pond will do, I’m thinking of doing more.” But he does have any regrets? “I should have done this a few years earlier.”

Business & Development | RX Plastics

RX to the rebuild rescue RX Plastics’ products are playing a significant role in Canterbury’s rebuild.

Roto-moulded tanks with RX Plastics on the side have been popping up throughout Canterbury and the company’s PVC and PE pipes were used in the rebuild of the city’s waste water, storm water and drinking water infrastructure. There has also been an increased demand for water tanks which have been used for water storage in Christchurch’s most affected areas.

RX Plastics came to the aid of the quake stricken city with its biggest water tank range – Max Tanks and the demand has been high RX Plastics managing director Shaun Cawood says. “We put the tanks to work almost immediately in large education centres, hospitals and rest home facilities and they have proved an effective water storage solution.”

Although RX Plastics was mostly providing large companies and governmental facilities with water tanks, the company’s smaller storage product lines have been popular with domestic customers. RX Plastics are now frequently installing water collection and storage systems in small domestic homes. Metro Tanks, an affordable and slim line method for collecting and storing precious rainwater, have been snapped up

by Canterbury customers as a precautionary measure.

“Initially the large water storage tanks were being provided to institutions like schools and other public buildings and businesses. We are now starting to see a trend for smaller

tanks going to private homes, which can be plumbed into the downpipe outlets on roof gutters for rainwater collection.

“Our team has also come up with interim solutions that enable Max tanks to be plumbed into a residential sewage system, so all wastewater goes into the tank for regular tanker collection, rather than placing additional strain on the fragile Christchurch sewer systems.”

“

We’re in several different manufacturing disciplines which allows us to provide access to a very wide product range.

”

RX Plastics managing director Shaun Cawood

Innovative long term solutions are also part of the RX Plastics product range to “future quake proof”, including the innovative Airtech septic tank systems. The Air-Tech 9000 is a unique septic system perfect for any property without access to a town sewerage supply and is designed to move with the soil without risk of rupture or cracking.

Quite simply, the Airtech tanks are made with inbuilt seismic restraints, and the individual compartments are designed to move without breaking during an earthquake. They are ideally suited for lifestyle properties, holiday homes, farms and anywhere that is not on connected to a local sewage system.

It is just one of the innovative plastic products RX Plastics has become renowned for. As one of New Zealand’s largest producers of PVC and Polythylene pipe, RX expects to be making a significant contribution to the process of rebuilding Christchurch’s storm water, drinking water and wastewater systems, as well as providing products to meet the needs of homeowners who wish to be prepared for any future seismic events in the region.

Industrial innovation As a company RX Plastics identified many years ago the importance of the Water Reticulation Industry and have made a conscious effort to focus on as many aspects of this industry as possible i.e. pipe and pvc extrusion for carrying water, rotomould products for storing water, K-Line Irrigation systems for the efficient use in pasture irrigation and a large range of associated fittings to compliment our water products.

It’s been a successful strategy; RX Plastics has won its share of awards for its innovative approach to irrigation systems, including the Champion Canterbury Award 2007 and a gold medal at the New Zealand Plastics Industry 2004 Design Awards. As a company that values creative and progressive thinking and also works with agriculturists across New Zealand, RX Plastics was an enthusiastic sponsor of the awards.

RX Plastics 445 West Street Ashburton T (03) 307 9081 E shaunc@rxplastics.co.nz www.rxplastics.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 75

Business Development | Lyttelton Harbour Business Recovery

Reviving Lyttelton’s

commercial heart

Before the earthquakes of 2010-11 Lyttelton was as economically and socially vibrant as it had been for some time. The beautification of London Street with its new cobbled paths had been completed, a new supermarket had arisen and plans for a waterfront marina at the port with public access was on the long term horizon.

According to Lyttelton Harbour Business Association chairman, Andrew Turner, there were many positive signs for Lyttelton business owners.

“Commercial activity had begun spreading into so-called ‘dead’ areas like Oxford Street and Canterbury Street, while the commercial centre of London Street had the ‘no vacancy’ sign up,” Turner says The earthquake of Sepember 2010 put a hand brake on that vibrancy and then on February 22, 2011 it all came to a crashing halt as the retail heart of the town was ripped out.

Once loved ones had been contacted and in some cases the grieving had begun, the Lyttelton business community returned to that heart. “Our first challenge was getting London Street open,” Turner says.

“Initially it was about getting the unsafe buildings closed and cordoned off as quickly as possible. Then our priority became opening up a corridor along the street, which took us about three days, enabling some businesses to open.

“The LBHA made it clear to the authorities that if demolition had to happen it had to happen quickly,” Turner says.

After three weeks more businesses were allowed to open as major demolition work

was carried out to lessen the impact on those businesses which could open.

Turner admits that it is unlikely they will see the cruise ships this coming summer either.

“The fear of many retailers was that if local customers had to shop elsewhere for any significant period of time, they would develop new shopping patterns, which would be a real disaster for certain parts of the Lyttelton economy.”

“With around 2,000 passengers and crew on each ship, for many of Lyttelton’s businesses the cruise ship season was the icing on the cake and it really added vibrancy to the town over the summer.”

many historic commercial premises, was the loss of the cruise ship season, with up to 60 ships a season, diverted to Akaroa for the 2010-11 and 2011-12 summers.

It is this quirkiness which Turner sees as one of the main elements Lyttelton needs to retain as it rebuilds. He sees Lyttelton as a town, not another suburb of Christchurch.

The business community is also currently grappling with misconceptions Christchurch As the weeks moved on, the scale of the residents have over access to the town. reconstruction work and the time that would take to complete, led some businesses owners “There seems to be an illogical reluctance from some in Christchurch to use the tunnel. to come up with their own arrangements to It is perceived that the tunnel is unsafe or a begin trading. dangerous place to be in an earthquake.

The bookshop began operating out of the “The advice we have had says the tunnel medical centre, the men’s hairdresser was would be one of the safest places to be in an able to operate out of the women’s salon and earthquake. portocom businesses, including a bakery, a “One of our main jobs now is to encourage fish and chip shop, cafes and a bank, popped those reluctant tunnel users to come over and up in vacant, earthquake-rubble cleared, see what they are missing… to let them know commercial sections. that once again they can be entertained and “Fancy footwork by many Lyttelton business fed in Lyttelton. More and more is opening up owners enabled the town’s heart to keep in the town, such as Freemans restaurant, the beating,” Turner says.

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Business Development | Lyttelton Harbour Business Recovery “It has a sense of identity, which perhaps not other part of Christchurch has, and the quirkiness of its businesses along with its heritage buildings, were a key element in creating that identity.

“While we have lost some amazing buildings, we can retain that quirky nature of the Lyttelton commercial scene. We don’t want to see the centre of Lyttelton becoming a shopping mall.

“While Lytteton is, to a point, redefining itself, we still want to make use of those elements which have made Lyttelton what it is – entertainment, food, theatre and so on and entrench that into the rebuild.”

Turner acknowledges that there are still hurdles to overcome to ensure the rebuild both moves ahead at pace and also in the direction locals want it to go.

“Insurance is one of the bigger challenges businesses are facing. Not only settling to allow rebuilding, but reinsuring and getting business interruption insurance - those difficulties have the potential to stall the rebuild.”

The other big issue facing businesses in Lyttelton, which the LBHA wants to see urgent action on, is what it says is the regulatory environment.

“The LBHA has made it clear to the city council and the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority that the community wants urgent action and a plan change needs to take place, to lessen the restrictive nature of the parking requirements and the negative impact the current regulations are having on the rebuild.

“It is important for business owners to know that already discussed projects like the opening up of Norwich Quay, providing alternative commercial access to the port and the opening up of the inner harbour to public access and a mix of commercial activity are still on the radar.

“This plan change needs to happen quickly and we want to eliminate the timely consultation process usually associated with a plan change and this can be done by an order in council.”

“We know it is going to take some time for this to happen as it involves changing the highway designation away from Norwich Quay. Those plans are going to involve alot of discussion between the community and its representatives and other major players such as the Lyttelton port company, the council, Kiwi Rail and Land Transport New Zealand.

While Turner is reluctant to talk about “black clouds with silver linings” he says there are opportunities to progress some of the more long term plans for Lyttelton to give business owners a clear vision of the future.

“

Turner says they have to balance the need to have a pedestrian, cycle and tourist friendly precinct while ensuring they do not jeopardise access to the port due to its significance, not only to the Lyttelton community, but also the wider Canterbury economy.

“As the centre of the port’s commercial activities moves east along the waterfront, it will start to open up the inner harbour to recreational use and light retail. But we accept this is a working port and that the industrial nature of the port gives the town some of its character, but to get Norwich Quay back into the town would be a win-win.

“As long as we know these plans are still “We have to get this right and future proof it… there it gives us some confidence in going it can’t be rushed.” forward. We need to have those conversations around this now to get that assurance no matter how far in the distant future it is.”

While Lytteton is, to a point, redefining itself, we still want to make use of those elements which have made Lyttelton what it is – entertainment, food, theatre and so on and entrench that into the rebuild.

“Much of Lyttelton’s commercial real estate is made up of quite small land parcels and under the current district plan, building and business owners are finding it difficult to comply with the parking regulation component of the plan, which determines the amount of car parking required,” Turner says.

”

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Business Development | Lyttelton Harbour Business Recovery

Our waterside economic engine When asked for his reflections on February 22, 2011, the day the maritime lifeline to Canterbury was severed by a magnitude 6.3 earthquake. The Lyttelton Port of Christchurch chief executive says “It seems a life time ago.”

“That day I was in Latimer Square hosting a delegation from the United States for trade talks,” Peter Davie says.

Davie can remember looking at the Canterbury Club and wondering how the old wooden building was still standing when many more modern buildings around it weren’t.

“There was a sense of isolation from what was going on around you but with things collapsing around you, you do what you can.”

“

The staff; they stood strong and committed along with our loyal contractors. One of the things I take out of all this earthquake experience is the fantastic effort of the staff who stumped up in the face of adversity.

- Peter Davie

”

Earthquake response

Open for business

With the scenes of devastation around him it didn’t take Davie long to speculate on how the port and those working on it had fared.

With communication poor and intermittent, Davie had a long wait to find out the port had escaped without the loss of life.

Despite the hurdles the team had to overcome - shoring up piles and wharves, putting container cranes back up on their tracks, making repairs to the container wharf and the land behind it and supply the power to do it all - the first container was swung off a ship within 96 hours of the February 22 earthquake.

Then the assessments began, but even before they started Davie says they knew there had been significant damage to the port.

“There may have been a different outcome if it had taken us longer to open, as we needed to get food and other essential supplies through to Christchurch,” Davie says.

“We had been using earthquake modeling to predict what would happen to the port in terms of a seismic event. That modeling By now the port company has progressed proved to be extremely accurate. We had a long way down the road to recovery with modeled predictions a wharf may move 280mm and the actual readings were 267mm. work commencing on the draft rebuild plan.

Davie says it will take between five and seven “This means our team was well placed to years to complete the rebuild programme begin remedial work. We knew where the key at a cost estimated to be in the hundreds of areas of damage would be and where and millions of dollars. what remediation was needed.”

And Davie acknowledges there will be speed That head start enabled key areas of the port bumps on the way. to be reopened in a short time, but Davie The company recently had to defer a decision admits that wouldn’t have been possible on starting the development of cruise berth without the staff. facilities, which many local businesses had “The staff; they stood strong and committed hoped would stimulate the economy over the along with our loyal contractors. One of summer. the things I take out of all this earthquake In late 2010, the company had announced experience is the fantastic effort of the staff plans for a $13.7 million purpose-built cruise who stumped up in the face of adversity.” berth facility, but the earthquakes forced the company to carry out a comprehensive review of all pending development plans. In the light of the seismic activity, the company estimated modifications to the original cruise berth plan would lead to a 40 percent cost increase to the project, to around $20 million.

The cruise berth facility would have needed to be completed by October for the season to have impacted on the 2012-13 summer.

Back where we belong in the heart of Lyttelton

“That timeframe was looking increasingly challenging,” he says. “It was also becoming more unlikely that the supporting infrastructure such as roads and parking for coaches and the cruise berth terminal would have been completed by then.

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“LPC is simply not prepared to take short cuts on, or risks with, the design and construction given what we now know about seismic activity in this region and the impact on physical structures.”

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He says some cruise lines had indicated they would continue calling at Akaroa for at least another year anyway, given the risk and uncertainty around the completion date and the customer experience.

Business Development | Lyttelton Harbour Business Recovery

Port operations Operationally, there are three distinct activities at Lyttelton Port of Christchurch:

Marine services Marine services offer a comprehensive range of services, 24 hours a day, with a specialist berthage allocation - “a one-stop-shop booking facility” for all ship and ship side requirements. With a single phone call, e-mail or fax, clients can confirm pilots, tugs, lines, security, telephone and water requirements and garbage disposal, prior to arrival. Dry dock bookings and marine safety are also part of Marine Services.

Container services Container services offer specialised cargo handling and stevedoring services for containers and bulk cargoes.

Lyttelton Port of Christchurch utilises a computerised container tracking control

and planning system. Inside the terminal, containers are tracked via a radio-based system. Straddle carrier drivers receive their instruction over mobile display terminals in their cabs.

With the introduction of an automated gate system, truck times through the terminal have been significantly reduced.

Port services Port services offers wharves, secure storage sheds, bulk discharge and other facilities for a wide range of conventionally stevedored cargoes. The port is well equipped for bulk petroleum, fertiliser, gypsum, conventional break bulk, imported cars, fishing and a wide variety of other cargoes.

The way forward The earthquakes have however, allowed the company to advance some more long term plans, which for the future of Lyttelton Harbour, its businesses and community, is a welcome sign.

Lyttelton is the biggest coal export port in New Zealand and a dedicated team is responsible for handling all customers’ needs.

The movement of the working port to the east has long been seen as the key to unlocking the inner harbour to retail and recreational development, and perhaps the future of Lyttelton as a town.

The history of Lyttelton port • A long extinct volcano, Lyttelton Harbour is home to the South Island’s biggest multipurpose port.

• Originally called Port Cooper, Lyttelton Harbour, or Te-Whaka-raupo (the harbour of the bulrush reeds) was home to Maori for about 1,000 years before Captain Cook, on the Endeavour’s first voyage to New Zealand, sighted the peninsula on 16 February 1770.

• In 1848 the Canterbury Association was formed and its mission was to found a Church of England colony in New Zealand.

Lyttelton was chosen because of its suitability as a port and the availability of a large area of flat land just over the hill - the Canterbury Plains.

• An official proclamation on August 30, 1849 established the town as a recognised port

The thousands of tonnes of rubble which has come out of Christchurch has enabled the port company to get a head start in its reclamation work at Te Awaparahi Bay, to the east of the container terminal operation.

and a 150ft by 15ft wharf was constructed, putting it on the shipping map. The first four ships of immigrants arrived soon after.

• In 1877, the Lyttelton Harbour Board was established and was responsible for the management of the harbour. The Port Companies Act 1988 separated the commercial and non-trading roles of the Harbour Board, which was abolished in 1989.

The 10 hectare reclamation project will now provide critical port infrastructure to support the company’s current rebuild programme.

Already over two and a half hectares has been reclaimed and while the cutting of resource consent red tape raised environmental concerns, work is progressing at pace.

• Lyttelton Port Company was formed in late 1988 to manage the port in the same manner as any other commercial business.

In July 1996, the company listed on the New Zealand Stock Exchange and now has a 30 percent public listing. The Christchurch City Council is the single largest shareholder of Lyttelton Port Company.

“There was some initial concern about rubble washing up on the beaches, but many harbour residents are now telling us the beaches have never been as clean, as we have a dedicated team who regularly monitor the beaches for rubbish,’ he says.

As for the inner harbour retail and recreational development? “It will be done and it will be done in the medium term,” Davie affirms.

“The trick for us is to work with stakeholders to maximise the potential for a development that services the community and people of Christchurch. I think we would all like to see the working port move east from the inner harbour and have that opened up to attractive development. We need to create that connection between Lyttelton and the waterfront… there are not a lot of places around Christchurch like it “The earthquakes have given us an opportunity, not to change Lyttelton, but to grow what’s there.”

Lyttelton Harbour Business Association PO Box 91 Lyttelton 8841 T 027 584 3874 www.lytteltonharbour.co.nz Lyttelton Port of Christchurch Administration Office 41 Chapmans Road Woolston Christchurch T (03) 328 8198 E enquiries@lpc.co.nz www.lpc.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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For more information visit www.lpc.co.nz or phone 03 328 8198 www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 79

Business & Development | Advanced Engineering

Making the most of

new opportunities

Advanced Engineering Group Limited in Christchurch (AEG) has grown from nothing into a major manufacturer of screening media for mining and aggregate industrial customers throughout New Zealand and Australia.

The business was formed in 1995 by Dave Hastie, who was previously the manufacturing manager at Wiremaker’s Ltd. When Wiremaker’s closed its Christchurch branch down, making Hastie and about 125 employees redundant, Hastie formed AEG and employed several of his former colleagues.

AEG general manager Glyn Eades was the company engineer at Wiremaker’s and employed by Hastie in 1998. Since then a lot has happened, with AEG going from strength to strength.

The company now employs 25 staff in Christchurch and has grown from a start-up business into a company turning over $10 million plus a year.

It has expanded into Australia, opening a branch in Brisbane in 2004 and a branch in Melbourne in 2010.

Specialising in screening media Today AEG is a successful Australasian company specialising in the manufacture of screening media for the mining and aggregate industries, which includes all types of woven mesh, screening media and engineering services to local and international markets.

Last year the company doubled the size of its Christchurch factory in Bamford Street, Woolston. The original small factory is now being used as a warehouse, while a large new factory and office block have been built alongside.

The lifeblood of AEG is its woven wire screen cloths, which have developed a great reputation throughout New Zealand and Australia.

AEG’s range of screening media

AEG has worked closely with a number of businesses that have helped it grow.

AEG produces a range of high-quality products under its main brands, Woven Wire, Flomax, Vibrex, Hardrock Quarry Equipment and ezy-lock droppers. These include:

General manager Glyn Eades says OneSteel Limited in Australia has been its supplier of screen wire since day one, while Pacific Wire Limited in Auckland has supplied AEG’s chain-link wire. “They’re great to work with and have provided us with top-quality raw materials on time,” he says.

• A comprehensive range of quarrying and mining screening products, including woven wire, ripple, rubber, polyurethane, harp/piano wire and wedge wire screening media and screening accessories such as Wedge Bolts, Clamp Bars, Stringer Rubber and Spray Nozzles

AEG’s freight requirements have been handled by Daily Freight since the company’s formation in 1995.

• Custom-made designer mesh for architectural balustrades, fencing, screening, partitions and railings

AEG also appreciates the close working relationships it has formed with several major clients, including Winstone Aggregates, Fulton Hogan, The Higgins Group, Christchurch Readymix Concrete, Road Metals, Solid Energy, Ravensdown and OceaniaGold, to name just a few.

• ezy-lock fence droppers, which are suitable for both plain and barb-wire fences

Working together successfully

• Fencing products such as predatorproof fencing, chain-link netting, welded mesh, fence fittings and accessories for the security fencing industry • Hardrock Quarry Equipment is a division of AEG and specialises in projects predominantly in the quarry and mining, materials handling and machine maintenance sectors.

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What AEG can offer you A quality product, great service and knowledgeable staff are among the many advantages customers receive at AEG.

AEG builds up stock levels

Improving its systems

AEG’s new factory and warehouse in Christchurch have allowed the company to change the focus of its service delivery.

While most opportunities for growth are in Australia, Eades says AEG is working hard to improve its efficiencies for its New Zealand customers.

Eades says this is the first time AEG has had a warehouse facility in New Zealand. “Building the new factory and getting a new warehouse allows us to at least quadruple the size of our stock holdings,” he says.

“It comes down to customer services and getting the product out to customers on time. We’re trying to change focus from manufacturing for customers’ supply, to manufacturing for stock and supplying customers from that stock.”

AEG has been working towards this shift in delivery focus for several years. When the company established its Melbourne branch in 2010 it never intended to manufacture there, with all product drawn from existing stock.

Eades says clients get great service from the company’s two sales reps, Mark Prosser and Tania Panfilow, who have both been with AEG for several years.

“Our customers see the same people day-in and day-out over a long period of time and that’s a key thing,” he says.

“By making all these changes and moving the plant around and setting up new systems, we’ve gone backwards in the short term. But this is just a glitch in the whole scheme of things,” he says.

Malcolm Uren in customer services looks after AEG’s exports to its Australian branches, while Melissa Sleeman does an excellent job taking care of accounts and health and safety.

“In 12 months time you’re going to see much more efficient and quicker delivery times than at the moment. Every day we’re changing our systems to improve them and the staff are all having input. It’s been a tough six months but I’m seeing a light at the end of the tunnel and we’re coming out of it now.”

All AEG screening media products go through several quality checks during the manufacturing process before being signed off by the company’s stores supervisor before delivery.

“We’ve now come back to Christchurch and we’re trying to turn what we’ve learned in Australia to make this a much more effective business unit here.”

Advanced Engineering Group Limited PO Box 19-915 Christchurch T (03) 384 9595 F (03) 384 5354 E sales@advanced.eng.co.nz www.advanced-engineering-group.com

The new Christchurch factory is operating 24 hours a day to keep up with demand and tries to build its levels of stock in the warehouse.

— Advertising Feature

Keeping up with growth AEG is experiencing significant growth within the Australian market, which is driving the company in New Zealand.

“All of our work in Australia is supplying screening media to the mining and aggregate industry. Everything we make involves wire, but we also buy in and sell polyurethanes and rubber, but woven wire has the biggest use,” Eades says.

“Before we moved into Australia our turnover was stagnant. To double that turnover we either diversified into other products or stayed specialised so the only real way to grow the company was to go to Australia - that’s proved to be an absolute winner for us. Once we have these changes completed and running effectively in Christchurch there’s no reason why we can’t double that turnover again.”

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 81

Hospitality | Volstead Trading Co

A den of serious style Taking a nod from the heady days of the 1920s, the Volstead Trading Co. is a relative newcomer to the Christchurch night scene.

Opened in November 2011, this back-alley bar provides a venue where friends come to sit and lounge, chat, drink some international or local craft beers and relax in a nonchalant environment – surrounded by an eclectic mix of furnishings and entertained by melodies of local musos.

It is quite apparent the discrete entrance and name which bears no resemblance to a bar is in true Speakeasy style – the underground bar culture that became prevalent during the dark days of prohibition.

These prohibition era night clubs were renowned for being inconspicuous establishments snuck away from the public eye – often hiding behind an almost invisible façade with a light above the door as an indication something more was available within.

The Volstead Trading Co. is just that. Hidden behind a nondescript door with a small lantern light hovering above, the exterior looks just like any other to be expected down an alley way. Yet when you walk in to the converted space, it immediately takes you back to the days of prohibition where floosies, mobsters and moles were all regular visitors.

Obviously the clientele of today’s bar are not quite so underworld, but the environment almost makes you do a double take of all who enter.

“

We want it to feel like it’s your lounge. You invite people over and then they, in turn, invite their friends over - James Stringer

The space is a testament to not only the work of the owners, but also to Christchurch artists and sign writers JBFX. The murals, one of a cigarette girl lighting up for her bow-tied and tuxedoed customers and the other a captivating scene from the King Kong flick, create not only points of interest but darkness and depth to the bar.

In the summer, the gathering place is a little less subtle, as garage doors are flung open with tables set up in front, to allow the sparkling westerly sun to warm patrons.

The name is a poke of fun at Andrew John Volstead, an American member of the United States House of Representatives between 1903 and 1923, and an instrumental figure in putting together the National Prohibition Act of 1919 which saw the introduction of prohibition in 1920.

The alcohol from those days was often homebrewed coming from boot-leggers. In a way the list of alcohol sold at Volstead is also in recognition of those days, with craft beers from New Zealand and all around the globe featuring on the board and served chilled to perfection to those wanting something a little less ordinary.

“We wanted to give people something a bit different to the normal. The beers we serve change every week,” says part-owner James Stringer. “The idea is to showcase beers from all around the world.”

”

Included on the beverage menu on this particular week are New Zealand favourites Moa, Three Boys, Emersons and Epic, and international guest tipples, Dogfish Beer from the United States, Alaskan Black from its namesake and De Molen from the Netherlands – amongst others. There are also a selection of decadent cocktails and luscious wines for those who would rather.

Not complacent with just trying to provide a venue and drinks, the owners of this bar have enhanced the space by putting a retractable screen with a projector with the expectation of running old movies in the near future. Live music fills the venue every Thursday, with local musicians entertaining those who have already discovered this debonair destination and shared it with others.

The talented young directors wanted to create a contented and personal space when they had the idea of opening their bar. “We want it to feel like it’s your lounge. You invite people over and then they, in turn, invite their friends over,” James says.

This hospitable environment also caters for those who would like something to nibble on while they enjoy their beverage - with nachos, popcorn, soup and the odd pie or stew to fill the nutritional void. The novelty bbq fashioned into a piano carcass is also fired up on occasion. At the moment the bar owners are undertaking a refurbishment next door with the intent of opening a restaurant in the not too distant future.

So whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking for somewhere a little different to enjoy the company of friends, try the Volstead Trading Co. It provides a casual environment with a relaxed atmosphere.

The Volstead Trading Co. 55 Riccarton Rd (behind Anytime Fitness) T (03) 343 6688 E info@volstead.co.nz www.volstead.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

82 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Hospitality | Maharaja Restaurant

Indian

The real

Just past the busy Papanui stretch of shops, sits an elegantly trimmed grey villa in a neatly landscaped garden. Through its cutesy red painted door is a meld of contemporary Indian décor with a waft of delicious spice gliding through the air.

A quick peek at the menu Dahl Chah $16.90 Lentils simmered with finely diced marinated chicken on a slow fire and tempered with onion, ginger, garlic and a touch of coconut.

It’s the perfect east meets west blend inside the newly renovated Maharaja’s restaurant.

Already a well-loved haunt for a gastronomy lover’s Indian fix – this new setting has lifted the restaurant from homey ethnic to chic oriental.

Top of the range The “real Indian” behind Maharaja is chef, Vijay Biala. His path to culinary success began more than 30 years ago as a child hanging onto his mother’s apron strings, in the Indian city of Amristar, in the Punjab region near Pakistan. This traditional style of cooking that he learnt as a child, has over the years shaped his culinary career; from his first years working at a 4 star hotel in New Delhi, through to Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia before finally landing here in Christchurch.

Part of what makes Vijay so great is his perfectionist tendencies, if it is not right he is known to throw it out. He cooks everything from scratch and only uses the fresh ingredients – nothing comes from the packet.

Freshly gourmet This perfect blend of natural, fresh ingredients makes for an enticing menu of Indian cuisine.

A couple of the must-tries are the Lamb Bhuna, a dish full of succulent pieces of lamb cooked with capsicum, ginger and garlic all complimented by a sprinkle of fried onions.

And of course the Butter Chicken with a twist; Butter Tikka Masala, the perfect blend of two of the finest North Indian dishes and the perfect upgrade from your traditional Butter Chicken.

“

Words of praise “Congratulations to Maharaja for having the courage to re-open and lift Indian dining to a whole new level. I have been a regular at the Maharaja for 10 years. It is, without question, the best Indian restaurant in Christchurch. I can say this because I have eaten at just about all of them.

Vijay started Maharaja in 2000 and during the past decade built it into a local favourite.

But in the familiar story, of many Christchurch businesses post-quake, he had to move to the new site at 452 Papanui Road.

“I have come to learn that the difference between Maharaja and the others is the time that goes into creating and preparing the food. Every ingredient is sourced fresh, spices are ground by hand in a mortar and pestle, and the dishes are made from scratch every day. Again, I know this because I’m curious and I love cooking, so I’ve had a look at how it’s done!

But out of the rubble did come the opportunity to lift the restaurant’s already glowing image, with its more contemporary look and feel, lifting it just a few notches above the mass of Indian restaurants around.

“This is Indian made with a lot of love. It takes time, as all good things do. But I’m always very happy to pass that time with a 500ml bottle of Kingfisher Strong Ale. Perfect.” - Andy K

A facelift

Beef Vindaloo $17.90 A typical Goanese style meal. Beef morsels cooked in chef’s special dynamite sauce.

Maharaja 452 Papanui Road Papanui Christchurch T 352 0150 http://maharajarestaurant.co.nz

Kadai Gosht $17.90 Lamb morsels roasted in natural juices with pepper spices. A touch of garlic, ginger and brown onions.

”

— Advertising Feature

Prawn Maharaja $18.90 A royal taste of fresh shelled prawn curry prepared in a lightly spiced creamy gravy.

Dahl Makhni $13.90 Lentils simmered in a slow fire overnight and tempered with onions, ginger, garlic and tomatoes.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 83

Hospitality | Coffee Worx

Coffee ethics A Christchurch company has taken on the challenge of moving beyond just generating business revenue. Chic-casual dressed businesswoman Deb Riach, alongside her husband and business partner Ian, has built Coffee Worx into market success, while fighting for Thailand’s impoverished people.

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Last year Deb was sitting on the back of a four wheel drive, bouncing through the rough terrain of the Thai mountains. At the end of the three hours of less than comfy “sightseeing” she had to literally prise her clenched hand off the handle she’d been gripping onto for dear life.

Why? So that she could meet the farmers of Thailand who produce the beans for the ethical coffee trade and charity – La Mai coffee. Deb and Ian Riach, as well as owning the Coffee Worx brand, its roastery, its supply business and a couple of cafes are also the New Zealand partner of the ethically traded charity brand.

It is their way of helping the “poorest of the poor move out of poverty into self-sustaining livelihoods. The trip certainly opened her eyes to the “differences that exist.”

Opium to coffee La Mai (Thai for pleasant) is run through an international, Christchurch-based, charity called Bright Hope World. Thailand as a coffee producer is a relatively new player in the market. But thanks to the charity it is quickly growing.

The coffee provided for the brand is grown by the farmers in the northeast of Thailand; a rugged mountainous area, commonly known as the “golden triangle” because of its notoriety as a heroin producing region.

For decades the hill-tribe farmers in the area had grown opium for the drug trade, making so little money that some were forced to sell their children into the sex trade. Many farmers borrowed money from loan sharks which charged as much as 10 percent interest a month – creating an everlasting cycle of debt.

Deb says La Mai coffee helps break this cycle by providing the farmers with an alternative; helping the poorest of the poor to become “spiritually and physically” self-sustaining.

“Bright Hope is working with local partners in Thailand helping the local farmers to change their crops from opium to coffee and providing them with an attractive income well above anything they could earn in the drug trade.”

< Deb Riach

Coffee tips 1 – Buy a high quality coffee 2 – make sure it is correctly ground: medium grind for filter, drip or plunger coffee. Fine grind for an espresso machine.

Making great plunger coffee Make sure the plunger is really clean and doesn’t smell stale.

Heat the plunger with water (a little cooler than boiling).

A call to action If you would like to support this coffee, you can subscribe through Bright Hope World at www.brighthopeworld.com, or contact Deb at Coffee Worx, if you would like to look into having ethically traded options as part of your business supply.

Add one tablespoon of medium grind La Mai coffee per cup of water, plus one additional tablespoon ‘for the plunger’.

Coffee bonds

Allow the coffee to brew for three to four minutes (no longer!) before plunging.

Deb’s charitable attitude doesn’t stop in the hills of Thailand. Back home, as much as she is an avid business woman; she also appears to have a soft touch for helping smaller businesses succeed. Coffee is a relationship business, she says. “It requires investment; every customer needs and deserves our attention.”

Though she does admit it’s important to have a good café behind the Coffee Worx brand, she is just as likely to supply a smaller but unestablished coffee shop or business – as long as it has the desire to grow. “There are some companies that some of the bigger coffee roasterys take one look at and say, ‘we won’t deal with them they are too in-experienced’.

But we don’t do that. Instead we try to help them build into their skills and look at their needs so they can produce good coffee. I see rewards in their development – in helping them to realise their potential. We don’t look at where they start; rather we look at if they have the desire.”

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Boil the jug, but let it sit for a minute before pouring.

Pour enough water to cover the ground coffee and give it a good stir, then add the remaining water.

Making great stovetop espresso coffee Use fresh, cold water.

Fill the ‘brew basket’ with fine grind La Mai coffee and ensure it is evenly and firmly ‘tamped’ or pressed down.

Wipe the top of the brew basket to clear off any excess coffee.

Put on a high heat until the coffee begins ‘bubbling’, indicating it is passing through the spout at the top.

Turn down the heat, or even remove from the heat once the coffee starts hissing to avoid scalding it.

Coffee Worx E sales@coffeeworx.co.nz deb@coffeeworx.co.nz www.coffeeworx.co.nz — Advertising Feature

centre It takes two to tango, usually not a dancer and food, but a Swiss dancing couple have brought the two together in a unique partnership – an Italian restaurant and a dance studio.

Sebastian Bürgin and Piera Fromm are the proud owners of “Passione Italian Restaurant” and “Soul Studio” which opened their doors to the public on the 4th of January.

Hospitality | Passione

stage

Dance as if no-one is watching Hip-hop | Modern | Zumba | Ballet Stretching | Hip Hop Gymnastics For those who may be looking for something aside from pizza there is a range of just as delicious Italian cuisine on offer, from antipasti platter, pasta, risotto, tiramisu, panna cotta and much more. It’s Italian food galore.

The kitchen team brings their experience with authentic mediterranean cuisine all the way from Europe to Kaikoura. Sebastian himself has always been passionate about creating Italian dishes.

A leap of faith

the art and has turned it into her profession.

Since the couple moved to Kaikoura, Piera has been teaching movement and has participated in many successful projects for the youth.

Soul Studio is for people of all ages wanting to dance and stay fit. The classes on offer range from classical ballet, to the all new rage of the decade, Zumba, hip-hop, modern and stretch.

Both Piera and Sebastian are dance and movement graduates from a specialised However, as much as running the restaurant is dance school in Basel, Switzerland. They first met there, at the school in Basel, and after something he loves, he admits he does miss graduating took the leap together across the the dancing. During the summer months he Viva la passione world to New Zealand. “She wanted to show didn’t have the luxury of time to dance, but The restaurant, which sits below the dance me New Zealand, she grew up here,” he says. as things quiet down over the winter months studio, offers a range of Italian cuisine in he is looking forward to working a few days a its dining area, decorated with art work by Originally the pair landed in Christchurch, but week upstairs in Soul Studio.

Ruth Stirninann who produces a mixture they quickly became bored with the city life. of geometric styled paintings and relaxed Sebastian says “If I was going to do the city Dancing for your soul “healing” art. After a day of sightseeing in thing I could just as easily do it back home Kaikoura’s natural surrounds, Passione delivers It was always Piera’s dream to own a dance with my family and friends around me. I an evening of Italian decadence in a uniquely studio, while Sebastian runs the restaurant, wanted to live in a nice spot and being in New ambient setting. she has taken charge of the 150 square metre Zealand I thought we should live somewhere studio. Through Piera’s years of training and surrounded by its beautiful nature.” And so six Sebastian, who has an Italian father, says studying dance she developed a passion for months later they moved to Kaikoura. when he first came to New Zealand he missed the ease of access to good Italian pizza’s, and so he decided to solve the problem himself – by producing it himself.

So today, thanks to his chef’s and pizzaiolo’s (pizza makers) he has on hand true authentic Italian Pizza taking centre stage in their restaurant. The handmade Pizza’s are generous 16inch, thin, crispy and with traditional toppings.

Simple and fresh, just like in Italy. Most of the ingredients come all the way from his father’s homeland. Passione serves original Parma Ham, famous Italian cheeses and delicious unique wines what have never been seen in New Zealand before.

Savour it Sebastian says his goal is to bring something new to New Zealand, to show kiwis the Italian way of dining, have a glass of wine with your meal and enjoy each other’s company in a beautiful environment. “Even having a Pizza can be fine-dining too,” he says.

The journey to date was certainly a leap into the unknown, though both were experienced in the dance industry, running a restaurant was a brand-new challenge. But when they saw the plot of land for sale in Kaikoura, the couple had to give it a go. “We bought the land and started to plan the building project.”

And here they are two years later with restaurant Passione and dance studio the Soul Studio.

Passione Italian Restaurant 40 West End Kaikoura T (03) 319 6999 E info@passione.co.nz Facebook: Passione Italian Restaurant Soul Studio Dance and Movement 40 West End Kaikoura T (03) 319 64 33 E soul.studio@hotmail.com Facebook: Soul Studio Kaikoura — Advertising Feature

Building from the base.

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“

From the antipasti platter, to the fresh homemade pasta with simple sauces to the very generous portioned hand-stretched pizza its about as close to eating in Italy as you can get.

The service is outstanding and host is a Swiss Italian who really knows his Grappa and wines. The house Italian white and red were delicious and the entire menu is very well priced.

”

40 West End, Kaikoura | 03-319 6999

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 85

Hospitality | Dux Live

The Dux

dances on

While it has been set up as a live music venue, Dux Live is emerging as a great place to meet for a few drinks after work and a place to grab a satisfying meal, before being entertained by some of the best original New Zealand and international music around.

Born out of the temporary halt to trading at the Dux de Lux restaurant and bars in the Arts Centre, caused by Christchurch’s earthquakes, Dux Live is gaining a growing reputation for giving music starved Cantabrians the fix they need.

Dux Group operations manager Ross Herrick says there were three elements that made the Arts Centre Dux de Lux what it was.

“At the Dux de Lux we provided quality, economical dining in the restaurant, high quality ales through brewing our own beer and live music with a focus on original Kiwi music for over 30 years.

“Dux Live takes the live music element to a new level with a purpose builT music venue in the inner city.”

Following the devastating February 2011 earthquake and the realisation the Dux de Lux in the Arts Centre wasn’t going to be reopened in a hurry, Herrick and Dux de Lux owner Richard Sinke sat down to figure out what to do.

“We really wanted to get something up and running within a year,” Herrick says.

“Initially we were looking at this venue in Lincoln Road as a possible site for a new restaurant, but it became clear very early on that the venue was more suited to live music than fine dining. It had that raw industrial feel to it which complements the music.”

A significant amount of the development budget for Dux Live has gone to ensuring the venue was ideal for live music.

“

For over 30 years the Dux de Lux was associated with the best of New Zealand music, and Dux Live is picking up from where we left off and growing the Dux reputation for the best of Kiwi music in a purposebuilt venue - Ross Herrick

”

“The ceiling and some of the walls were acoustically treated to ensure the venue had the best sound for live acts,” Herrick says, “and we spent a significant amount on ensuring we had a top quality PA system.”

With the addition of a mezzanine level to the bare space they inherited, Dux Live is able to provide two scenarios for customers to enjoy the atmosphere of a live music venue.

“Downstairs is for those people who want to fully immerse themselves in the music, while the mezzanine level allows customers to not only be a part of the music experience, but to do it in a more relaxed and subdued atmosphere with the focus of the PA system aimed at the downstairs area.”

Since opening in December 2011 Dux Live has already hosted some top flight international acts, such as Big Daddy Wilson, Henry Rollins and Justin Townes Earle in addition to leading New Zealand acts.

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Proud to support Dux Live 220 Cumnor Terrace, Woolston, Christchurch P.O. Box 7005 Sydenham, Christchurch.

Phone 03 389 9909 Fax 03 389 9699 Service Foods Limited 17 Saleyards Road, Otahuhu, Auckland Phone 09 8370000 Fax 09 8370013 Web www.servicefoods.co.nz

The New Zealand Music Month of May was a jam-packed Kiwi music festival at Dux Live, with every night during the 31 days of May featuring a New Zealand music act.

Some of the big names of the New Zealand music scene including Anika Moa, Tall Poppies and the Babysitters Circus along with emerging local and national headline acts took to the stage at Dux Live over New Zealand Music Month.

“For over 30 years the Dux de Lux was associated with the best of New Zealand music and Dux Live is picking up from where we left off and growing the Dux reputation for the best of Kiwi music in a purpose-built venue,” Herrick says.

Hospitality | Dux Live

More than just music Dux Live

Dux Live is not all about the music though with both the other elements which made the Arts Centre Dux de Lux so successful making an appearance at the new venue; the food and the Dux brewed beers.

Where: 366 Lincoln Road.

Behind the Mobil station just before the railway line When: Monday to Sunday; winter hours 4pm - 3am

“We realised that with the type of liquor licence we have and our strong belief in host responsibility, we needed to provide food for our customers,” Herrick says.

Capacity: 250 Contact: (03) 366 6919

“However, we were not going to replicate what we had in that department at the Dux de Lux and our Dux Live menu has been adjusted to include meat dishes and yakatori, as well as the seafood and vegetarian dishes’ for which Dux de Lux was so well-known.”

www.duxlive.co.nz

gig guide

The Dux Live crew has been fortunate in gaining assistance in being able to continue brewing its own beers.

“We have had some great help from both the Wigram Brewing Company and Harringtons in being able to brew our specialist craft beers,” Herrick says.

“We were doubly fortunate with the Wigram Brewing Company as their head brewer, Paul Cooper, was the head brewer at the Dux de Lux when we first started brewing our own beer.”

On tap at the Dux Live are well recognised Dux brew beers, Dux Lager, Ginger Tom (alcoholic ginger beer), Blue Duck (amber ale) and Nor’Wester (strong pale ale). The Dux Live beer chiller also stocks some of the best craft beers from around Canterbury and New Zealand including Tuatara, Epic, Moa and Three Boys.

Herrick says eventually they will find an appropriate site to begin brewing the Dux beers themselves again.

And it’s not just about the beer with Dux Live boasting some great New Zealand wines complimenting the craft brew list.

June 21st: Drop dead Redhead (AK) with T52 and friends. 8pm/FREE 22nd: Supermodel, Sleeping Dogs and friends. 8pm/FREE 23rd: Human 25th anniversary. 8pm/FREE

A venue for all

27th: Weaponized, Anthesiac and friends 8pm/FREE 28th: BassFreaks presents their local showcase. 8pm/TBC

In addition to providing the best live music in Christchurch, Dux Live is also open to be hired out as a venue for a wide variety of functions.

“We have already hired out the Dux Live venue for corporate events and wine tastings,” Herrick says.

“It is an ideal venue for product launches and, for example, we are able to open the doors wide enough to drive a car in. We can provide function clients with all the catering they require as well as live music for them if needed.”

While there are conditions regarding the day and timing of functions, generally functions are held from Sundays to Wednesdays but, as the recovery from the earthquakes have proved, the team at Dux Live is more than flexible.

29th: Loop Recordings present: A Hori Buzz with Soulsystem and friends. 8pm/TBC 30th: Left or Right and guests. 8pm/TBC July 1st: Von Voin Strum and the Jack Daniels Honey launch party.

Private until 9pm the open to the public. 9.30pm/FREE 4th: Simon Comber and Paquin. 8pm/FREE 6th: The Eversons album release with Sleepy Age and T54. 8pm/FREE 7th Can-Cut; performers TBC. Benefit for City Mission, entry by donation of canned food. 8pm/1xCan 11th: Super secret show -Can’t tell however it’s going to be BIG! 8pm/$25 TBC 12th: Super secret show -Can’t tell however it’s going to be BIG! 8pm/$25 TBC 14th: Canterbury Pole-Dancing regional championships. 5-8pm/TBC 14th: Sexy Animals and friends. 8.30pm/FREE 15th: Lydia Cole and Friends. 8.30pm/FREE 18th: Blue Moon and Friends 8pm/FREE 19th: James Reid (Feelers) solo project tour. 8pm/TBC 21st: Light up Christchurch charity gig feat. Troika, Mantis, Roadside Theory, David Bell, Loaded Victim, Reflekshun, Addie and loads more 12pm to 12am/$10 22nd: Duchess Swift album release. 6pm/FREE 23rd: Amy Winehouse tribute show. 8pm/FREE 25th: Sekht and friends. 8pm/FREE 26th: Home Brew TBC. 8pm/FREE 27th: Taos Live. 8pm/FREE 28th: Die Die Die and friends TBC. 8pm/TBC

L.S.D.C

2011

29th: Yvette Williams latest release. 5pm/FREE.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 87

Hospitality | Kiwi Cuisine

Food for thought

Whenever you’re holding a party, special event or even morning or afternoon tea, preparing the food can often be stressful and time consuming. Instead of enjoying the festivities or even being able to take part in the happenings, often you are left chained to the kitchen preparing the food, worrying if there’s enough to feed everyone – not to mention the hours of cleaning up afterwards.

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Drive just 20 minutes South of Christchurch down a tree-lined country road, swing into a red letterbox driveway at a row of lush Macrocarpas… this is the secluded exclusive spot where you’ll find Pemberton.

Pemberton has it all...

• Tranquil romantic surroundings • Large venue caters up to 200 seated guests • Many ceremony options throughout gardens • Endless photography opportunities; fountains, pergolas, statues, love bench, picturesque island, hedges and topiaries, rose garden etc.

210 Tosswill Road, Prebbleton, Christchurch Check out our website for further information,

www.pembertonfunctions.co.nz alternatively contact Ann or Gary LePine on

03 344 0326 / 021 059 9259 88 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

This is where Kiwi Cuisine can take over, eliminating the stress and ensuring you are able to enjoy the company of others – whether it be a wedding, celebration, work do, funeral wake or even a small social gathering.

Kiwi Cuisine has been catering events for more than 16 years, supplying quality food at reasonable prices. Managing director Stu Mackenzie has been involved in the food industry for 25 years, first as a butcher and then moving into the catering industry.

The Kiwi Cuisine team has now been involved in catering for hundreds of thousands of people. And still every function that it caters for is unique. Regardless of the location, the cost, or the menu selection, all its clients benefit from the combined experience of its team.

There are hundreds of menu options available in three distinct packages – the gourmet spit roast, DIY catering (where they supply the food and you serve it) and the complete event – where they organise the whole event on your behalf. As Stu believes in a transparent business with no hidden costs, all menus and prices are available to view on line at www.kiwicuisine.co.nz.

Kiwi Cuisine’s great reputation is no accident.

Stu and his professional team work hard to ensure that every function they cater for is successful. “For all our serviced buffet catering we provide crockery, utensils and all catering equipment required to present and serve your meal to our high standard.”

A touch of paradise Kiwi Cuisine has just entered into a joint venture with Paradise Estate, Prebbleton.

This idyllic setting is the perfect place to hold an event whether it is a wedding, birthday celebration, or any special occasion.

The estate offers a stunning natural backdrop, a spectacular view of the hills and an abundance of native trees with Paradise Ducks. Adding to this is the beautiful, well maintained gardens with its own lake, set on four acres. This dream location is ideal for all your entertaining requirements. “It’s quite spectacular, just a beautiful location,” Stu says With its own award-winning boutique winery you are sure to have the perfect site for relaxing in the splendid surroundings or using the vines as a back drop for some stunning photos.

It can host up to 150 guests seated, 200 for a cocktail event or 250 for a large marquee reception. Kiwi Cuisine offers a range of fine fare - anything from a banquet to a cocktail party and is able to cater for any budget.

Paradise Estate also has its own accommodation. So the bridal party can get ready in peace and tranquillity at the venue and the bride and groom can conveniently stay there on their wedding night, and wake up at a beautiful location the following day. To find out more visit www.allnaturalnz.com or www.paradiseestate.co.nz.

Name your place Kiwi Cuisine also has close associations with a number of other venues and is able to arrange the booking and co-ordinate your special event. On some occasions, couples have actually found their venue thanks to Kiwi Cuisine.

If you have already chosen a venue, no problem – whether you want a bbq at the beach, spit roast at the races, canapés at the park, breakfast at the office or mid-winter Christmas party at your own home, they can take care of it all.

Hospitality | Kiwi Cuisine

At a glance | Pedal Pusher

Wheels oiled and spinning at

the Pedal Pusher

Christchurch’s recovering hospitality scene is welcoming the recently opened doors of The Pedal Pusher restaurant and bar on Lincoln Rd in Addington.

Experienced hospitality duo Wayne and Madlen Shaw opened their new restaurant after their former inner city hospitality business (Suede) was demolished.

Special offer Receive a free Kiwi Cuisine gourmet grinder seasoning pack.

Be one of the first ten people to book and pay for an event – and don’t forget to mention the CanterburyToday advertisement.

Spit roast Kiwi Cuisine is renowned for its beautiful spit roast catering – providing a delicious yet economical way to feed small or large groups.

The meat is cooked on site and staff serve the food, which is normally accompanied with a wide array of salads and hot dishes.

“It’s great to finally be able to open our doors and welcome customers to our new restaurant and bar,” Madlen says. “We hope our customers will love our new interior décor and the overall experience as much as we do. It’s a great design fit-out with lots of quirky items to look at.”

Whether it be hot meat rolls or a full gourmet dinner, a spit roast meal is always succulent, delicious and means there is always plenty to go around.

So whether you are in need of canapés, breakfast or catering for a black tie event, give Stu and his team a call at Kiwi Cuisine or book online – you won’t be disappointed.

The name ‘The Pedal Pusher’ was chosen because the restaurant’s new site used to be a cycle exchange.

Kiwi Cuisine is proud to be one of the participating businesses donating time and food to raise money for the Ronald McDonald House.

Kiwis favourite café

The Supper Club @ Home is a fundraising effort which sees diners hosted in some of the city’s most beautiful homes, stunning venues and elite restaurants on Friday June 22, 2012.

Popular café chain Muffin Break has been named Coffee Shop of the Year in a nationwide survey, beating a number of New Zealand’s best-known coffee outlets to take the honour for providing its customers with the best service.

A renowned Canterbury chef is matched at each location and will put together a three course meal for the eight guests.

For more information please contact Lizzie Dyer via email: lizzie@rmhsi.org.nz or by phoning: (03) 377 3311 ext 709.

The Pedal Pusher is the newest member of the NZ Pub Company which is a concept designed by DB Breweries based around the idea of ‘New Zealand kind of Pubs, for New Zealand kind of people’. The network is a band of gastro-style pubs which each provide their own unique home-away-from-home experiences, only better!

The Pedal Pusher’s décor is testament to its ‘local’ focus with warm carpets, modern wallpaper and creative lighting adding to the cycling theme. The menu also has a distinct local flavor thanks to locally sourced ingredients.

“We like to support Canterbury suppliers as much as possible,” says chef and co-owner Wayne Shaw. “We’re offering honest, well priced home-style dishes with a modern twist. Our shared roast boards are carved at the table just like at home with fresh vegetables and gravy. We’re also offering tapas for those wanting something smaller.

We’re sure too that kids, and parents, will love our healthy kids menu and the fact children can eat for free every Sunday!”

Regulars will also no doubt appreciate The Pedal Pusher’s loyalty programme which offers instant discounts on food and “Christchurch has a really big cycling beverages. This, combined with a weekly community,” Madlen continues, “and we thought it would be a great idea to build on events calendar from pizza and quiz nights to ladies’ night and live music, ensures that theme so we’ve incorporated cycling there’s always something new and exciting elements wherever we could. We’ve had happening. For more information visit: bar stools made out of old bike parts and www.thepedalpusher.co.nz the chandeliers in the dining area. We

Happy meals for a good cause

Guests will not know where they will be eating or who will be dishing up their feast until a pre-dinner cocktail function on the night.

even have a replica Boneshaker bicycle from 1867 hanging on our wall surrounded by our slogan, ‘let the good times roll’. ”

Kiwi Cuisine 269 Hills Road Christchurch T (03) 386 3082 E gourmetspitroast@kiwicuisine.co.nz www.kiwicuisine.co.nz

have received this award, which recognises the high value the team puts on customer satisfaction.

“This Customer Satisfaction Award is a great credit to our franchise owners and their staff.

It really is about the whole package for us and it’s exciting that this recognition endorses our commitment to having all Muffin Break customers feel appreciated at our stores. We strive to give people a great experience time and time again,” he says.

The Customer Satisfaction Awards are based on a new survey which interviews 12,000 New Zealanders annually.

Customers are asked to rate the service or product on a scale from ‘very satisfied’ to ‘not at all satisfied’ and these classifications Roy Morgan Research CEO Michele Levine says customer satisfaction is vital to every New are then analysed to result in an overall Zealand business, particularly in the age of winner for a range of categories. social media where any negative customer Muffin Break general manager Garry interaction can literally be broadcast to Croft says the company is thrilled to thousands of people instantly. www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 89

Hospitality | Famous Grouse Hotel

A Lincoln institution A paper on social institutions published shortly after World War II said ‘the pub’ has “more buildings, holds more people, takes more of their money, than church, cinema, dance hall and political organisations put together”.

There’s only ever been one pub to serve the population of Lincoln which stands at little under 3,000. It’s also “the local meeting house, community hall, the rugby centre, the bowling club, diner and inn”, laughs publican Craig Bradford.

stock Famous Grouse scotch, an arrangement that is still in place today.

“It’s everything the community lives and breathes for.”

In early 2010 Lincoln Club Inc. took over the lease of the hotel, Bradford was anointed publican and significant renovations began.

Just three months after the extensive yearlong refurbishment was completed, the earthquake hit.

Bradford, a third generation publican, and current owner of the pub had never seen a pub which played such an integral role within a town’s operation. “I’ve been in pubs my whole life and never quite seen anything like this before. It is the lifeblood of the town and plays a very important role in the town.”

The chimney on the William Street side of the building collapsed outwards onto the back bar extension, cracks opened up throughout the old structure and the hotel was condemned.

She came down 10 days later aged 125 years in front of an emotional crowd of locals, some who had drunk there for more than 70 years.

The Famous Grouse Hotel has stood on the same site, give or take a few metres, for more than 140 years. That was until September 4, 2010.

“We pulled a couple of ‘leaners’ onto the empty section and had a party,” Bradford says.

Heart of the country The first license on the Lincoln watering hole was taken out on the 25 January 1868, making it the second oldest pub in New Zealand.

Under the original moniker The Perthshire Arms, it was a popular local meeting spot.

An adjoining building was constructed in the late 1800s as a more sturdy replacement known as The Lincoln Hotel. It wasn’t until over a century later that it was given its current name.

‘The Famous Grouse Hotel’ was coined after the whisky brewed in Perthshire, Scotland, linking the hotel back to its original owner MrArklie, who insisted that the hotel only

It was farewell to the heart of the town; an icon. Planning began quickly on a replacement hotel, while the back bar extension remained standing and operating on a smaller scale, until the new hotel was up and running.

Bradford’s life had been in that pub, and the life of his partner. They lost everything. “We were heartbroken, having taken over just 12 months before the earthquake,” Bradford says.

“It was a real focus for the community.”

That same community really made its spirit known after the earthquake. “The feeling was unbelievable. A number of amazing people offered us a place to stay.

“The community really showed its true worth after the earthquake.”

Proud to be associated with The Famous Grouse Hotel and the re-building of Christchurch • Commercial and Residential architecture • Hospitality • Interior design • Landscape design • Master planning • Heritage consultation.

www.townsendarchitects.co.nz 90 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Rising from the rubble Construction began on the new building within weeks of demolition Bradford explains.

“A pub in such a close knit community like Lincoln plays an important role. It is the meeting rooms of the town. So it was important to us that we were able to provide for our customers particularly after everything people had been through.”

During the 16 month construction project, business went on as usual for the pub, albeit on a smaller scale. The pub operated out of the old student bar at the back of the property until construction on the new bar was complete. It was a costly move, with the temporary premises requiring fire rating and other safety measures. But it was well worth it Bradford says, being able to look after patrons, some who had been drinking at The Famous Grouse Hotel for more than 70 years.

As the planned renovations and repairs made way for a complete rebuild, it provided the opportunity to combine modern design techniques and amenities with the best of olde world charm. Much of the building materials of the old building were utilised in the construction. “We were very conscious that it had to fit in with the Lincoln township and resemble, at least to some extent, the old pub for prosperity.”

It lends a unique presence to the hotel which features 10 accommodation rooms and a 20

seater boardroom or function room, aside from the main bar and restaurant.

Architect Peter Townsend hadn’t quite realised the magnitude of the project in terms of the Lincoln township until planning began. “We began this project thinking quite narrowly about just the replacement of one of the town’s most cherished structures. It was only once we commenced with the planning that we realised that the landlord, tenant and community of Lincoln will all receive a long term benefit from this rebuild project,” he says.

“This sense of energy and enthusiasm has given the overall project new meaning and commitment from all involved.”

Hospitality | Famous Grouse Hotel

“

Rebuilding Christchurch is a massive job but as Kiwis we are resilient and able people. Working on this project alone shows me that, when it comes to getting on with life and putting energy into making Christchurch once again a great city, there is simply nothing stopping us.

- Architect Peter Townsend

Completed in March 2012, the new hotel The brick and concrete building had been meets all requirements of current structural constructed in 1887, replacing the wooden bar and human safety design codes and is a which had previously stood on the section. safer place to gather as a result. The feeling Townsend says the September quake revealed of a village still exists in Lincoln in spite structural inadequacies from the intricate brick of substantial population growth in recent work. Loss of life was only narrowly avoided years. The design of the new building has he says. “Craig Bradford and his partner built on the theme of the village and has were on the upper floor of the hotel when been conceived as a big house recalling the quake struck. They were lucky to escape familiar English country pubs. only being badly shaken but sadly the same “Rebuilding Christchurch is a massive job but couldn’t be said of their property. as Kiwis we are resilient and able people.

“Along with thousands of others witnessing Working on this project alone shows me the demolition of the hotel on network that, when it comes to getting on with life television news, many thought that was both and putting energy into making Christchurch once again a great city, there is simply the end of an era and the end of an integral nothing stopping us.” part of the Lincoln community.”

Fast facts

”

• Established in 1868 with the moniker The Perthshire Arms • Hosted dinner parties, agricultural shows, ploughing contests and important town meetings • Was rebuilt in 1882 and remained until 2010

• Was named The Famous Grouse Hotel in 1996 • This name came from Famous Grouse scotch, the only scotch it has sold since getting the name • Was demolished 10 days after September 4 earthquake • Some locals had been drinking there for more than 70 years • Construction of new building took 16 months • Has 10 accommodation rooms and a 20 seater boardroom or function room • Continues to be owned by the Lincoln Club Inc. • Co-owned and managed by Craig Bradford, a third generation publican • Continues as the life blood of the Lincoln district.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 91

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Hospitality | Famous Grouse Hotel

Kiwi classics There’s a “menu for a real appetite” at The Famous Grouse Hotel. It’s a menu simply chocka block filled with classic Kiwi favourites.

From nachos, steak sandwiches and Caesar salads to snack on, steaks, roasts, salmon, chicken and lamb shanks for heartier meals, bangers and mash or fish and chips for a true Kiwi meal, excellent kids meals and desserts, there is something for everyone in The Famous Grouse Hotel and restaurant meals are available all day, everyday.

The Famous Grouse Hotel doesn’t just cater for dinner. Breakfast, lunch, bar snacks and an all-new Café Cabinet for lights snacks are available all day. There’s even coffee, which is, according to some of the locals, the best in town.

If you don’t fancy sitting in the restaurant there are nine TV screens, TAB and pokies in the brand new bar and bar meals are just a chat to the barperson away. Whether you fancy a quiet beer, want to watch sport on the tv, or even participate in one of the weekly events like housie, pub quiz, karaoke or poker, there’s no better way to check the place out, than popping in for yourself.

Partnerships breathed life into a fallen icon Due to the synergistic nature of construction, success was the result of a number of skilled and experienced suppliers and contractors. Townsend Architects provided the architectural capabilities. “The new building had to be the same size as the previous one.

Townsend Architects did an amazing job, even more amazing when considering the number of restrictions they faced regarding size etc etcetera,”and Bradford explains.

Sydenham Joinery played a significant role in the construction of the new building, by providing the joinery for the build. “The joinery is at an exceptional standard, we couldn’t be happier with the end result.”

through to toilet flushers. “Their products and equipment are always such a high standard and we are really happy to deal with Cannon Hygiene.”

A number of other loyal suppliers are involved with the day to day operations. “Halswell Butchery is the best butcher in Canterbury,” Bradford says.

“It is one of the main reasons we’re considered to be one of the most popular restaurants around Canterbury area.”

Melray Electrical provided the electrical work for the build. “These guys were just fantastic to deal with, fast and efficient, we’re really impressed,” he says.

Beam Global has been a loyal supplier from the beginning and with the range of spirits some of the biggest and most popular around, it’s not surprising the company chooses to deal with the international brand. “They are a very supportive group and we are really pleased to be involved with them.

Cannon Hygience supplied the washroom fitout, from feminine hygiene units right

“There’s a reason they’re a global leader and that’s because they look after their sellers.”

The Famous Grouse Hotel 2 Gerald Street Lincoln Canterbury T (03) 325 2408 E thefamousgrousehotel@gmail.com www.famousgrousehotel.co.nz

Please contact the Sydenham Joinery team

— Advertising Feature

Servicing | Installation | Maintenance

Proud to be associated with the rebuild of the Famous Grouse Hotel Phone (03) 365 7077 sparky@melray.co.nz www.melray.co.nz

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 93

Initiatives | Apex Environmental Apex is responsible for the design, build, installation and commissioning of the new Fonterra treatment plant.

Environmental engineering Apex Environmental is a New Zealand leader in environmental engineering, specialising in the design and build of water and waste treatment systems.

has a wide range of products and systems applicable to many different sectors, including food and beverage, textile, resorts, business parks and domestic sewerage treatment systems for new subdivisions.

Extensive portfolio

Working together to achieve success

Founding directors Dr Matt Savage and Dr Steve Kroening both have extensive local and international experience in the wastewater industry, from research and development through to the installation of full treatment systems.

Since being founded in 2009, Apex has bucked the economic trend and has grown in size and staff.

• Apex Environmental works alongside its customers to ensure a successful outcome is achieved, every time.

Experts in wastewater systems Apex is an international leader in the treatment of industrial wastewater and also provides domestic and commercial wastewater solutions.

The company provides high-quality costeffective solutions that are custom-designed for each application.

Apex takes its environmental responsibility seriously by recognising that water is a finite resource highly susceptible to over exploitation and pollution.

Savage says it has proven success in New Zealand through a number of early projects that have performed extremely well.

Apex’s portfolio of completed projects includes the design and installation of wastewater treatment plants for Miraka Dairy, Open Country Dairy and Kaputone Wool Scour, as well as systems for Mt Difficulty Wines and Lion Nathan. It is currently working on a major project for Fonterra’s new factory near Darfield.

Savage says a particular area of expertise for Apex Environmental is in experimental and demonstration work for clients.

Its expertise within the dairy industry is firmly established, with the company developing specialised processes and products that “If clients want to try something unusual we provide sufficient treatment to allow the reuse can build a small-scale plant and run tests on of water for irrigation. it to de-risk it for them,” he says.

Apex is also an established industry leader in the treatment of winery wastewater, from boutique operations through to large facilities.

But while the company is heavily involved in the wine and dairy industries, it also

What’s on offer…

• Apex Environmental can offer design and build and consultancy services, including: • Wastewater treatment plants

• Each system’s operators are included early on in the design process so their preferences and experiences can be incorporated. This ensures a streamlined plant operation and commitment to the system by its operators.

• Managing director Matt Savage says Apex enjoyed a good working relationship with Miraka Dairy in Taupo and consultants Skl8 Ltd, for which it designed and installed a wastewater treatment system for a greenfield milk powder plant.

• Babbage Consultants, which is managing Apex’s current Fonterra project, has also proven good to deal with.

• Dissolved air flotation units • Membrane bioreators and SINAP flat sheet membranes • Drinking water treatment systems • Wastewater disposal systems • Organic waste treatment systems • Remote telemetry • Expert evaluation and modelling of existing plant • Compliance monitoring • Resource consent applications

“We charge them to do that but if they order a plant from us the cost of the trials can be credited back. It offers our customers a great way of being able to try new technology and systems.”

Apex Environmental makes progress on the tank foundations at Fonterra’s new dairy factory near Darfield.

>

The Fonterra milk factory at Darfield is a significant project for Apex Environmental, and its first for Fonterra.

94 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Initiatives | Apex Environmental

Making moves with Fonterra South Canterbury, Tony Boyce Builders, Andar Holdings, NDA Engineering, Rooney Earthmoving and Charleston Engineering in Christchurch.

“We are excited to be working with Fonterra The factory is Fonterra’s first new site in 14 on a project that will bring so much benefit years and will be capable of manufacturing up to Canterbury over the coming years,” Savage to 15.5 metric tonnes of milk powder per hour says. at start up.

“We have worked with almost all of the Apex director Matt Savage says the project independent dairy processors in New Zealand is the company’s first with Fonterra and is a and it is great to also now have Fonterra significant contract for Apex. adopting Apex Environmental Technology.”

Apex is responsible for the design, build, Work began on the project in January and is installation and commissioning of the due to be finished in August. treatment plant, including significant civil works and electrical components. It will deal with the clean wastewater that is produced Bringing expertise to the dairy when making milk powder, and the dirty industry water produced when cleaning pipes and processes.

New Zealand dairy and wine companies At the heart of the treatment plant is an Apex dissolved air flotation (DAF) plant, which removes milk fat and other contaminants from the wastewater, making it suitable for reuse as irrigation water.

By recycling the wastewater for irrigation, the valuable nutrients can be returned to farmland to offset on-farm fertiliser use.

Apex is working closely with a number of local businesses, including Industrial Controls

Provding a complete service Customers of Apex Environmental are benefiting from the company’s total service offering.

Director Matt Savage says a big point of difference for Apex is that it provides a complete turnkey package, from consent and design to installation and commissioning. The standard industry model is to employ a consultant to design the wastewater plant and to then employ an engineer or construction company to build it.

“We provide all of that under one roof, which gives the client a high level of assurance,” he says.

“We have PhD microbiologists and PhD chemical engineers. We can offer the client a fixed price to design and build.

It means the client has one point of accountability and it’s us.”

The Apex model also helps reduce costs by cutting out expensive consultant designers and is quickly being taken up by New Zealand businesses and local authorities.

are benefiting from the huge amount of knowledge and experience Apex has to offer.

“We’re very heavily focused on the dairy and wine industries at the moment,” Savage says.

Apex is currently finalising a project in Hamilton for Innovation Waikato, which involves providing the wastewater treatment plant for New Zealand’s first independent product development spray drier.

“We’re also doing a wastewater project for Gardians’ Big River Dairy in Balclutha and we’ve recently upgraded all of the wastewater treatment systems for Indevin Partners, which is the biggest winery in Gisborne.

World class expertise

Extensive fabrication has been carried out by Apex Environmental for the new Fonterra factory.

>

Apex Environmental is heavily focused on supporting growth within the dairy industry and is currently completing a large wastewater treatment plant at Fonterra’s newest dairy factory near Darfield.

Managing director Dr Matt Savage is a chartered chemical engineer with more than 10 years’ international experience.

Savage has designed plant for meat processors, wool scours, fellmongeries, dairy factories and wineries throughout the world.

Savage is responsible for the design of water treatment systems at Apex.

Director Dr Steve Kroening has expertise in organic wastes, land remediation and land application compliance monitor.

Kroening is responsible for project management and quality management systems and has worked in the industry throughout the world.

Apex Environmental Limited PO Box 2169 Washdyke Timaru 7941 T (03) 929 2675 F (03) 688 7368 E sales@apexenvironmental.co.nz www.apexenvironmental.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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Initiatives | EECA

Cutting commercial power costs Helping the New Zealand commercial sector cut energy costs and usage is one way to ensure the price of electricity is kept lower for all.

The aim is to save 20 percent of lighting costs nationally, which equates to $40 million of savings per year. This would drop national electricity usage and by default keep electricity prices down. “If we save electricity there will be no need to build new power stations. The lighting controls subsidies save electricity on average at about two cents per kilowatt hour, whereas if a new power station is built it will cost 10 cents per kilowatt hour.

This initiative will benefit all consumers.”

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) is encouraging businesses to install subsidised lighting controls in retrofits and new developments to reduce overlighting and demands on the electricity grid.

Businesses taking up the opportunity could potentially make savings of up to 30 to 40 percent on their lighting power usage.

Although there was an initial cost to the business, it took only about three years for the cost to be paid back by way of savings.

“Lighting a typical 1000sqm office space uses approximately $13,000 in power per year. That office could reduce its costs by $5000 or more if it installed efficient lighting and controls.”

EECA lighting programme manager Bill Brander says the new initiative allows subsidised products to be sold by selected suppliers to wholesalers and electrical contractors who will then pass on the savings to commercial customers.

“Lighting in commercial buildings such as food stores, offices, hospitals, retail, schools, hotels and motels accounts for approximately 20 percent of total energy consumed by the commercial sector,” he says.

Although there had been lighting efficiency subsidies available before, the programme’s management decided it was essential to include lighting controls as part of this latest initiative. “You can have efficient lighting but if it’s on for 13 hours a day when you only really need it for six or seven, then it’s not efficient,” Bill says.

Lighting controls come in a variety of forms suitable for different commercial settings.

Sensor controls allow only occupied rooms to be lit, daylight harvesters adjust the lighting in various areas – with spaces near windows (which may require less light) more dimly lit compared to those which are in a darker place in the building.

Lighting was a great place for businesses to improve efficiencies as control technology was becoming smarter and more reliable, and the installation less disruptive than other forms of energy saving. “In some cases it can be installed at the weekend with absolutely no disruption to staff.”

It was essential if lighting controls were being installed to make sure they were done correctly and in the most appropriate manner.

As part of the tender process to become a selected supplier, EECA ensured those suppliers were passing on education and information to wholesalers and contractors, to ensure businesses were getting optimum savings.

Bill says the rebuild in Christchurch will provide the perfect opportunity for Canterbury property owners and businesses to include this energy efficient technology to save long term.

96 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Selected suppliers are: • Architectural Intelligence Ltd • Electrical Supply Corp • Energy Light Ltd • Eurotec Ltd • Philips New Zealand Ltd • Thorn Lighting (NZ) Ltd • Evolve New Zealand Ltd • Advanced Lighting Technologies NZ Ltd

Initiatives | EECA Smart ways to keep warm at home this winter Energy bills and hospital visits increase when winter arrives as New Zealanders try to stay warm in damp and draughty homes.

“It’s hard to overemphasise the benefits of a warm, dry home,” Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) chief executive Mike Underhill says.

“It’s so much more than just saving money on your power bill. The World Health Organisation says that indoor temperatures below 16degC increase the risk of respiratory disease, yet many New Zealanders go to bed in winter able to see their breath. Although we’re used to ‘toughing it out’ in New Zealand, the resulting health problems are costing us.”

Health Sciences’ housing and health research programme, repeatedly shows associations between poor housing and ill health. For example, the self-reported respiratory health of families involved in a home insulation and clean heating retrofitting trial run by He Kainga Oranga, showed significant improvements, including for children with asthma.

“We would love to see a lot more homes in New Zealand with under floor and ceiling insulation, and with clean, energy efficient heat sources installed,” Underhill says.

“The Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart programme encourages this by making funding available for all New Zealanders with Research by He Kainga Oranga, Otago homes built before 2000, regardless University’s Wellington School of Medicine and of income.”

Tips for creating a healthy home • At a minimum, have underfloor and ceiling insulation installed • Install draft seals around doors and windows • Keep draught stoppers against doors and sash windows • Block unused chimneys • Close curtains as the sun goes down • Fit thermal-lined curtains over all windows and French doors (preferably with pelmets) • Install DIY window installation film as a temporary but an effective alternative to double glazing • When renovating, install wall insulation and double glazing on windows • Use a clean energy efficient heat sources like heat pumps, modern wood or pellet burners or 4-plus star rated flued gas heaters • Use thermostats and timers to control heaters and only use the right type and sized heater for the application • If you’re using a wood burner, only burn dry firewood • Avoid portable gas heaters. These heaters pump out moisture and noxious gases into the home, making it damp, unhealthy and more expensive to heat. They are much more expensive to run than electric heaters.

About Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart funding If your house was built before 2000, you are eligible for funding to help make your home warmer and healthier through the Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart programme.

This funding is available irrespective of your income level.

Funding includes up to $1300 towards the cost of installing ceiling and under floor insulation. There are lots of different providers across the Canterbury region offering a range of insulating materials, including fibreglass, mineral fibre, polyester, polystyrene and wool.

Once the insulation is sorted, up to $500 in funding is also available towards the cost of installing clean, efficient heating sources for the main living area of your home. You can choose from Energy Star* rated heat pumps, wood and pellet burners and flued gas heaters. Talk to your local service provider to find out what is best for you.

After receiving your insulation funding, you may be able to pay off the balance through your rates or mortgage from as little as seven dollars a week. Talk to your local council or your bank to discuss your payment options with them.

Find out more about this funding, the insulation and heating options available, and who your local service providers are on the Energywise website www.energywise. govt.nz/funding-available/insulationand-clean-heating *Energy Star is New Zealand’s mark of energy efficiency. It is awarded to around the top 25 percent most energy efficient models in a range of categories, including heat pumps.

• Let moist, stale air out and dry, fresh air in – ventilate your house frequently by opening your windows • Try not to dry clothes inside.

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 97

Initiatives | What power crisis?

Are you energy efficient?

As electricity prices soar and the price of renewable energy technologies plummets, more and more New Zealanders, both home owners and businesses, are looking to alternative power sources.

What Power Crisis then turned to another renewable energy source…the sun.

The sun’s energy can be harnessed as either light or heat. The process of converting light (photons) to electricity (voltage) is called the photovoltaic (PV) effect. The PV effect was first discovered by the French physicist Edmund Becquerel in 1839 using copper oxide in an electrolyte.

“Here at What Power Crisis we firmly believe that New Zealand is enjoying a renaissance period in PV technologies,” Keppel says. “The price of PV modules has dropped significantly whereas the cost of electricity is going further upwards, and that trend doesn’t look like abating in the near future.

Whatever their reasoning, environmental or financial, those New Zealanders are now able to take advantage of some of the technological developments which are putting power generation into the hands of individuals rather than corporations.

One of the companies leading the way in designing, building and installing those technologies is Auckland based What Power Crisis. “When What Power Crisis started about seven years ago we focussed mainly on wind power, at a domestic level,” company director Dave Keppel says.

“After initial trials and installations we soon learnt that although wind power has its place, it didn’t lend itself to the market we were aiming at due to cost/benefit ratios and added technical difficulties.”

“The flexibility and scalability of application makes PV a versatile solution, and most people can benefit from a PV installation.

Renewable Energy technologies and the selfreliance it allows should be available to all, and we aim to make this a reality to anybody with the desire to make the investment.”

Solar hot water As the title suggest WPC supply solar hot water solutions for domestic, pool, and farm applications. “For high usage of hot water this technology works well in terms of highly efficient conversion (up to 90 percent) of the sun’s energy into heating varying volumes of water, so for high levels of hot water usage this can represent major savings in energy consumption,” Keppel says.

Installation options Grid-Tie This scenario works well for customers who are already connected to the grid. Electricity produced by the panels can be used at the point of production, and any excess can be exported to the grid. Most energy retailers offer buy-back schemes at varying rates.

The main components involved in Grid-Tie installations are PV modules to generate the electricity, and inverters to convert the electricity into a form that household appliances can use (240V).

Off Grid For customers who cannot connect to the grid, or for whom it is cost-prohibitive to do so, then an Off-Grid solution is required.

Electricity is produced and converted in the

same way, but as there’s no grid to export to or import electricity from when production doesn’t meet demand, then an additional storage component is required, i.e. batteries.

Additionally, for users who want to ensure they will always have enough electricity for all their needs, then an ‘intelligent’ generator is added to the mix which can start up and shut down automatically as demand requires.

Hybrid Option This adds batteries to a Grid-Tie solution to store excess electricity produced by the PV modules, which minimises the amount of electricity imported from the grid. Due to the cost of batteries though, WPC usually recommend this option as a backup solution for critical appliances in the eventuality of grid failure.

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Due to the low international prices of quality solar modules and the high exchange rate, WPC can offer the market leading package: • 10 x 190W IEC Certified Monocrystalline Modules • 2kW NZ-made Enasolar inverter with WiFi connected dashboard • Engineered flush-mount roof mounting for corrugated iron roof • Free delivery in North Island and Christchurch In Auckland this system will generate about 2450 kWh per year or about 245 kWh per module.

In Christchurch this will generate about 2216 kWh per year or about 221 kWh per module.

WPC now offering Hyundai PV Modules!

19 Ararimu Rd, Ramarama, Auckland Phone: 09 294 7703 Website: www.whatpowercrisis.com • Email: hq@whatpowercrisis.co.nz 98 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Property & Construction | B&D Doors

Garage doors to suit any style

Along with a comprehensive range of sectional doors, products include the popular Roll-A-Door, Therma Tech II - New Zealand’s premium insulated sectional garage door - and Flex-A-Door®, designed to replace outdated tilt doors.

NZ country manager Tim Dalzell says B&D is proud to be a New Zealand business.

Quality is a key focus of B&D Doors.

A dedicated manufacturer • B&D Doors has more than 40 years experience in manufacturing • B&D is New Zealand’s only garage door manufacturer producing brake press roller doors, as well as a range of sectional doors and tilt-door hardware • It offers opener products for garage doors, gates and commercial doors through its sister company Automatic Technology Australia Pty

• B&D is focused on continuous manufacturing improvement, safety and quality • All processes are regulated by rigorous standard operating procedure documentation • In the event of any manufacturing issues, B&D works directly with the dealer through an established product nonconformance process to ensure all issues are swiftly dealt with.

“B&D invented the roller door in Australia and it’s a big name over there. It has even been on a series of iconic Australian postage stamps,” he says. “Here in New Zealand it is our two brands, Dominator and Garador, that consumers will be most familiar with. B&D is the supporting arm.”

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B&D Doors (NZ) Limited is New Zealand’s leading manufacturer of sectional and roller doors under its respected Dominator and Garador brands.

B&D Doors NZ country manager Tim Dalzell

Committed to Christchurch B&D Doors has its head office and large manufacturing facility in Christchurch and remains loyal to the region. Dalzell says the business is committed to its staff and the city.

“When things like the earthquake happen you assess what’s best for the business from a socially responsible basis. We came to a decision that we needed to maintain our manufacturing presence in Christchurch and build on it,” he says.

“The next few years in Christchurch are going be challenging and exciting as the rebuild gets underway. The danger with the Christchurch rebuild is that a lot of businesses from outside the region will come in and grab as much of the market as they can and then they will leave. We’re proud of the fact that we’re dedicated to Christchurch and we want to be a significant part of the rebuild. We have 70 people employed here and have a longterm commitment to the region, and we think that counts for something.”

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 99

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Property & Construction | B&D Doors Market leaders

Doors to suit any style

Garador and Dominator offer a wide range of innovative garage doors to suit any purpose or application.

B&D manufactures many different types and styles of garage doors that can be tailored to meet customers’ specific needs.

Dalzell says the company is continually looking for new innovations under its Garador and Dominator brands.

The company’s current version of the original Roll-A-Door is a ribbed steel curtain that moves vertically and rolls up around a drum.

Roller doors are particularly suited to garages and sheds where there is plenty of headroom in the opening.

“We’ve got new products within the main categories - sectional doors, roller doors and door automation. We also have insulated doors,” he says.

“One of the biggest trends in the last 10 or 15 years is to move away from tilt doors to sectional doors. In roller doors there’s an increasing need for more robust solutions to deal with windy conditions and we have a patented wind lock system for commercial and semi-commercial doors. There’s a greater trend in people being more proactive.”

Garador and Dominator doors are focused primarily on the residential market.

“That’s our bread and butter, and the largest part of the market,” says Dalzell. “We have roller door solutions for both the residential and commercial markets, and produce a heavy grade roller door for barns.”

The B&D Flex-A-Door is an innovative new style made from a durable Roll-A-Door curtain that is fitted on a curving track, sliding from a vertical position up into a horizontal position.

It fits into places that traditionally only tilt doors could go. This innovative product is a huge step forward in terms of convenience, aesthetic value and safety for the customer.

B&D still manufactures the operating hardware for new or replacement tilting doors with some significant spring retention safety enhancements.

Sectional doors are made from a number of rigid panels that are hinged together and move vertically in the opening, then horizontally along the ceiling. These doors are available in a range of colours, patterns and may also feature wood panels or windows.

B&D offers the leading Dominator and Garador brands.

GDO garage door openers B&D’s GDO range of garage door openers are all built on modern DC technology offering: • Low standby power consumption and the ability to operate by solar power, with an auxiliary backup battery

Innovative Therma Tech II product

• TrioCode™ multi-frequency technology means GDO openers will never suffer interference from other household wireless products

B&D Doors has partnered with Northwest Door Inc. to develop the market leading Therma Tech II insulated sectional doors.

• The automatic frequency change function provides enhanced reliability and security, effectively overcoming common interference issues.

The Flex-A-Door is an innovative new style made from a durable Roll-A-Door curtain that is fitted on a curving track, sliding from a vertical position up into a horizontal position.

Each Therma Tech II insulated panel is produced with an energy efficient thermal barrier that effectively separates the inner and outer steel skins of the panel, crucial in eliminating heat transfer to and from the garage space.

This unique Thermal Break design also has the benefit of acting as a draft stop between each panel, restricting air movement and further weather-proofing the overall door.

A unique dealer network

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www.colorsteel.co.nz 100 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

B&D Doors enjoys a close relationship with its 70 authorised Dominator and Garador dealers across New Zealand, ensures customers receive the highest level of service and support possible.

option from its quality dealer network from Kaitaia to Bluff.

Dalzell says the success of the company is heavily reliant on its dealer network.

“We understand that the product is not just the garage door. Service is just as important to our customers, and our dealer network delivers an excellent customer experience.

That sets us apart.”

“Our product is at the top end of the quality range, and our ability to provide national coverage through a qualified and robust dealer network makes us a valuable supply partner where market reputation is vital.” he says. “Our links with them have been one of our strengths.”

B&D is the only major garage door company in New Zealand that can offer an installation

Dalzell says the installation and backup service is equally as important as the product for the end consumer.

B&D authorised dealers undergo extensive training in all aspects of the products, including installation and maintenance procedures. In addition, they attend yearly conferences to update their product knowledge and review their customer service performance.

Property & Construction | B&D Doors Developing Business Relationships

The importance of industry involvement

B&D’s focus on building business relationships has been one of the key reasons for its success in the recent economic recession.

B&D Doors is associated with several professional bodies, which help keep the company at the forefront of the garage door and opener industry. These include:

The two-tier relationship structure of the B&D sales team and dealer network provides clear communication and a professional service across all areas, providing a real partnership.

• Architectural Designers New Zealand Incorporated - specialists in building design and construction in the residential and commercial sectors

Dalzell says the company has also developed close relationships with group home builders and shed companies.

“We invest in our brands and we invest in our customers. Our national account relationships are a big part of our business. And it’s a two way thing. We’re always looking for ways to improve our service and support, whether it is providing pricing for a fully installed garage door option or offering product training and conference support,” he says.

“This approach has served us well, and will continue to do so. With a B&D Door, customers get not only a quality product, but quality service and after sales support.”

• Future-Proof Building - a group of innovative building companies that have a shared vision of building better homes for New Zealanders.

A quality offering to New Zealand customers B&D Doors has a proven track record of developing manufacturing, supply and installation processes through on-going collaboration with clients such as national home builder groups, garage and shed manufacturers and building merchants.

B&D has a long list of large clients and is keen to grow its database further.

A significant supplier B&D Doors was named the David Reid Homes Supplier of the Year for 2011.

“We’re very proud of that,” says Dalzell.

“Our doors are installed towards the end of a new home build, but they are important as they add to the overall street appeal of a new home. To have David Reid acknowledge us as supplier of the year shows that we’re doing things right, not just within B&D, but with our dealers too.”

The key factors in B&D’s win for its Dominator products were the consistency of product, delivery of service and communication. B&D Doors has operated as a preferred supply partner for David Reid Homes for a number of years.

“We take pride in our customer relationships.

The emphasis we place on partnerships together with excellent service and product consistency has culminated in this award.”

A B&D garage door will enhance the beauty of your home.

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The frequent communication with customers about the impact of the Canterbury earthquakes on B&D’s production schedule was applauded by the David Reid team.

Emphasis on quality B&D is highly focused on quality, maintaining a tight level of control right through the manufacturing process and ensuring customers will be left highly satisfied with their chosen door.

Because domestic and commercial doors are fragile, B&D has its own dedicated national transport network to ensure that doors arrive at their destinations in tip top condition and on time. “We’ve strengthened our systems in terms of quality and are reaping the benefits with declining warranty claims,” Dalzell says.

B&D Doors (NZ) Ltd PO Box 24 131 East Linwood Christchurch 8642 T (03) 384 5145 F (03) 384 5148 www.bnd.co.nz — Advertising Feature

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 101

Property & Construction | Christchurch South Intermediate

Christchurch South Intermediate

The building blocks of education Creating a new environment to educate children has prompted one Christchurch school to rethink the way it delivers education to its students.

Walking around the classrooms at Christchurch South Intermediate there is an air of community, of independence, vibrancy and above all, a respect for one another.

The newly-built “pods”, which include four classrooms wrapped around an interior communal area, provide a flexible environment – which students and teachers can adapt to provide the perfect space for whatever they are doing.

The changes have been introduced through a complete rebuild of the school to accommodate the ever-changing needs of students and create an exciting place to learn and teach.

For principal, Ross Hastings, and director of learning, Craig Robinson, the rebuild has been a vision which, although hindered by a couple of unforeseen challenges along the way, has created a space to promote learning now and in the future.

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Students work on notebooks in the communal area while classes take place in the classroom spaces.

The catalyst for change It was in 2008 the school management and board realised there was a need to upgrade the school. Some of the original buildings had been erected in 1939 and were not only in need of some major repair but also needed to be adapted for teaching and learning in the 21st century.

In order to gain funding for renovations, the school needed to appoint a project manager to apply for funding and oversee the development. That is when consultant Steve Bailey of Steve Bailey Consulting came on board and not only took up the job, but also believed the school was able to rebuild rather than renovate.

“Steve highlighted that our buildings were more than 40 years old and that we may

be entitled to some Building Replacement funding from the ministry,” Ross explains.

Although the first application was declined, the school was then asked if it would like to apply again next year. The school management and board had to make the hard decision of whether to wait and see, or go ahead and just renovate the existing buildings. “So the board sat down at that point to decide what to do. We knew we would have a better chance next time so it was decided to hold off for now.”

A welcome call About six months later, John Key’s Government initiated the Economic Stimulus Package to try and get the economy working through the global recession. As a result, the school received a phone call out of the blue to say they had been approved for rebuild funding. “We then had to get cracking,” Ross says.

Ross, Craig and other representatives quickly visited other schools to get an idea of what they liked and what could be incorporated into the new build. Some of the first visits provided a few raised eyebrows. Classrooms built around communal areas were a far cry from the more traditional one-class, oneteacher model Christchurch South’s staff had been working in.

What became quickly apparent was that it wasn’t just about designing and erecting classrooms. “We had to go back to the teaching and learning – what was going to drive the buildings,” Craig says.

Working with management, it was decided that the school would take a more active team approach to teaching its students. This involved teachers being open to teaching in a more co-operative and open manner.

Although they would still be responsible for a class, there would be a more collaborative approach – with the responsibility of welfare for all students within an area, on all teachers.

There was also a degree of crystal-ball gazing needed, Ross adds. “The design had to also be mindful of the future. Thinking ‘what’s education going to look like in the future?’”

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Property & Construction | Christchurch South Intermediate

A plan is devised With this in mind an architect was found in the form of ex-pupil Charles Thomas.

Charles had a real interest in the school’s development, as Ross explains. “He is now in his 80s, but he was really motivated to do something for us. It was his school art teacher from Christchurch South Intermediate who encouraged him to go further than just technical college and to consider a career like architecture, so he felt he really owed a lot to the school.” Charles’ son Simon, who also works in the practice, worked alongside his father and took over the project after the conceptual stage.

Simon says the design incorporated key elements. “The pods are all orientated to the north, allowing sunshine to filter into all the classrooms, which are enhanced by the extensive landscaping around the pods.

“The school requirement to remain functioning during construction was also an important consideration in the initial design process. The pod design layout has satisfied this requirement very successfully.”

A simple single pitch steel frame structural system was developed for the classroom pods. Durable precast concrete panels were used for the lower exterior walls with framed fibre cement cladding above. The selected materials reflected existing buildings retained on site. The structure and materials selected also allowed prefabrication off site which meant a faster more efficient construction.

The “pod” plan created mini-villages around the school ground perimeter. These pods create small communities of students and teachers, with students having an input into how the interior of their pod looks giving them their own identity. The students stay in the same pod for the two years they are at the school. “It gives them a real sense of ownership of their spaces. They really respect their environment and are really proud of their school,” Ross says.

The classes have large retractable sliding doors, which can be pulled away to create more of a communal space and technology has been incorporated to ensure children have an interactive and on-line learning experience.

Trials and tribulations Throughout the building process there have been challenges and trials. The first contractors went into liquidation, the earthquakes contributed to the disruptions and of course the snow of last year also had an impact.

The key to the new design meant the deconstruction and reconstruction could be done in stages. With each pod being separate, the first one was erected before room was needed to make way for another – thereby creating space ahead of time, while all four pods were built.

For Contract Construction (the builders) manager John Timlin it did provide a different scenario than just walking in and building from a blank canvas. “Doing it in piecemeal stages created its own challenges, but because the communication with all “We were very mindful that some of our parties was open and honest, it meant that if students would have their whole intermediate anyone had concerns or problems they could schooling (two years) during the rebuild come straight to us and we dealt with it.” process, so we needed to make sure that it What was of great benefit was the strong did not impact on their learning,” Ross says. relationship between the builders, project managers and architects who had worked on projects before. “Having that relationship already formed, meant that we knew how each other operated and meant we could deal with things as they arose quickly and efficiently. We eliminated issues before they became issues,” John says.

Rebuilding a whole school has its own logistical considerations. How do you keep a whole school functioning, not impeding on the pupils’ education, while tearing it down and reconstructing it?

Principal Ross Hastings says the ability to cope with the myriad of challenges was really down to the determination of all involved, from project management, contractors and staff, through to students and parents. At times teaching would carry on with only a tarpaulin separating the classroom from the build.

“Everyone who has worked through this project has shown professionalism and commitment. It hasn’t always been easy for any of the affected parties, but the dedication to get the job done and the realisation of just what an extraordinary school was being created has been shown in the patience and resilience of all concerned.”

A hall for all During the rebuild it was also decided that it would be an opportune time to remodel and strengthen the hall, which was built in the late 1950s. Funding for this was on top of the rebuild funding, so with help from the architect and a conscientious board who had carefully managed the money raised from hosting international students, as well as some compromises along the way, the final project was realised.

What stands now is a hall which can accommodate a multitude of groups. Ross has a long list of users among whom are a church group, acting troupe, dance school and “because of the earthquakes it really is in demand. We have to be careful at times with bookings so that it is available when we need it”, Ross says.

The latest in sound systems, a data projector, large hall area and stage provides a multipurpose environment to ensure there is an indoor space available for a myriad of activities.

We are proud to have been involved with Contract Construction and the new developments at Christchurch South Intermediate

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Property & Construction | Christchurch South Intermediate <

Christchurch South Intermediate pupils at work in one of the new classrooms.

“

We love how there is break out space where all the four classes can come together and work. It’s great not having to work in the classroom all the time.

How it works

It’s great having the notebooks in our classroom. Notebooks are simpler and we do most of our work on them. We hardly use our exercise books at all.

”

Deputy head boy Ryan Smith

What now stands at the Selwyn St location is a remarkable new school which has moved forward, not only with the buildings in which students are housed, but the way education is delivered. For the students it is an exciting place to come to each school day.

knowledge they are trusted enough not to abuse the privilege.

Here students sit together, alone or with teachers, on couches, beanbags or at desks, working through self directed or set work - learning in a way that encourages independence, free-thinking, co-operation, problem solving and, above all else, engaging students in their education.

Technology obviously plays a big part in the day to day learning, with computers, notebooks and interactive whiteboards all just regular tools of the process.

Remarkably, the open plan aspect has prompted both teachers and students to become more considerate towards one another, having a mutual respect for each other’s needs. Even though it may be open plan, noise is not an issue – children are working quietly and contentedly. There is always the flexibility that if a class is going to make noise and disrupt others, teachers can adapt the space simply by shutting the doors.

Learning portfolios are put together and are able to be accessed by students, teachers and parents. It makes education accessible, transparent and creates a more open communication between all parties.

Ross says the new build has also brought about a change in the children’s attitude towards their environment. “In the past there was a bit of damage to the old buildings, but there has been none of that with the new buildings. They really are proud of the environment they learn in.”

Head girl Olivia Kemp

What the pupils say:

”

Christchurch South Intermediate head students (from left) deputy head girl Rebecca Cumming, head boy Hamish Laing, head girl Olivia Kemp and deputy head boy Ryan Smith.

<

Pupils each have their own code for the photocopier and are able to use resources as and when they need – not only making it easier for them, but also freeing up the time of office staff. It gives them a sense of ownership, independence and the

“

“

You get to know the year 7s quite a bit more because there are years 7 and year 8 classes within the pods. Some classes are based on ability not age.

Head boy Hamish Laing

”

“

It lets you interact with other classes. If you’re in a classroom by itself, you don’t really interact with any one other than in your class.

”

Deputy head girl Rebecca Cumming

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”

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104 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Property & Construction | Christchurch South Intermediate Christchurch South Intermediate School

A long and proud history Christchurch South Intermediate was opened in 1939 and is New Zealand’s third oldest intermediate school.

It delivers a varied and stimulating learning programme, designed to engage and extend learners in all aspects of the New Zealand curriculum. Its vision and values along with the key competencies, underpin all aspects of South’s curriculum.

Aiming high Christchurch South Intermediate’s motto is “Aim High”, and as an intermediate school targeting the needs of Year 7 and 8 students, it has developed a vision that focuses on the very specific needs of this age group: Developing a passion for learning

OPEN EVENING For prospective students and families or caregivers A chance to come and see the school in action and have any questions answered

Recognising that learning is a lifelong creative process Building independence Helping young people to take responsibility for themselves and their futures Velebrating diversity

Christchurch South Intermediate

Enjoying the wide and varied cultural and socio economic backgrounds we come from and the range of abilities we have to share

204 Selwyn St

Embracing challenge

Thursday July 26, 2012 6.30pm to 8pm

Christchurch T (03) 322 2408 E office@chchsouth.ac.nz

Encouraging students to move out of their comfort zones in order to grow in confidence as they begin to move through the significant and rewarding early adolescent years.

English, social studies and health are delivered in home rooms where most aspects of these topics are integrated into school wide themes, using South’s Inquiry Model. The Inquiry Model aims to develop students’ knowledge, skills and thinking strategies through a range of experiences and topics.

Students are grouped across a team of four classes for mathematics according to their abilities. The school mathematics programme emphasizes knowledge acquisition across all mathematical areas along with development of advanced numeracy strategies.

South’s specialist programme involves the development of practical, life skills through hard materials, food and fabric Technologies.

Students with an interest in the arts will find plenty to meet their needs in its dynamic visual and performing arts programmes. The teachers of these programmes are specialists allowing them to focus solely on these subjects through using their expertise and specific training.

ICT is strength of the school. Currently there are more than 400 computers on-site, two computer suites, at least two PCs per classroom and two mobile pods of laptops.

The new pod classrooms are all equipped with interactive digital projectors, sets of laptops and wireless access to the school network and the internet.

During semi-specialisation, students are taught by teachers who have strengths and interests in the subject. There are opportunities to focus on developing specific skills and knowledge through the use of extensive information technologies, a wellresourced science laboratory and a varied physical education programme.

Languages Other Than English (LOTE) is also part of the semi-specialisation programme which focuses on enhancing knowledge and use of Te Reo Maori. Students also better appreciate their place in the global village while getting a taste for foreign languages.

55 SCHOOLS USE MAINLAND SECURITY! HERE’S WHY CHRISTCHURCH SOUTH INTERMEDIATE DOES “Christchurch South has been involved with Mainland Security for over 8 years. In that time our school has built a new administration block and 16 new classrooms, as well as refurbishing our hall, science block and Technology classrooms. Mainland Security have provided us with an exceptional level of service and expertise during these projects. They have been involved right from the start and have designed, installed and maintained our security system.

Our recently installed digital security camera network was designed from the ground up by them so as to minimise traffic across our computer network and utilise some existing cameras. We are delighted with it and the positive results it has already generated for us.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 105

Property & Construction | Christchurch South Intermediate <

Contractors and staff gather to check progress at Christchurch South Intermediate school. From left principal Ross Hastings, director of learning Craig Robinson, project manager Steve Bailey, Contract Construction construction manager John Timlin and CR Thomas and Associates architect Simon Thomas.

Well managed Having an insight into the workings of the education system and Ministry of Education property policies has seen Steve Bailey Consulting successfully complete a number of high level school projects. Among these is Christchurch South Intermediate School which is in the last throes of being completed.

After being engaged by Canterbury Education Services on the school’s behalf, Steve was able to review the schools 10 year property plan which it is required to have by the Ministry of Education.

Project management awards

He was able to establish early on that the school would be eligible to access more than one funding stream – thus making the redevelopment more successful.

The Project Management Institute of New Zealand PIMNZ is calling for nominations for the Fourth Annual Project Management Awards. The awards recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements in the project management profession.

“We were successful in meeting the criteria for the building replacement funding, that the ministry has available, to replace the whole of block one which was 14 class rooms,” Steve says.

After having the initial application declined and then latterly approved, Steve then acted as an interface between the Ministry of Education, Board of Trustees, and then design consultants and contractors.

His first priority was to assist the BOT through the process of selecting design consultants, selecting the design, the tender process then the multi-staged construction phase - all in compliance with the Ministry of Education’s property management guidelines.

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As project manager, Steve has assisted when issues have arisen and given insight to how they can be addressed in accordance with the Ministry of Education requirements.

This required open communication between all stakeholders. “The key in any project like this is communication and managing that communication. As the project manager all communication is through me so I can ensure that everything is co-ordinated and everything is addressed.”

Because of the need to demolish then build, it was a “tricky operation”, he says.

Making sure services were still going where they needed to be while other parts were being demolished meant the need to re-link wiring at times so that electricity wasn’t cut to classrooms. “It was a bit of a challenge, but in saying that it makes some of these jobs more interesting.”

There have been many challenging aspects to the job, but at all times it was Steve’s job to ensure the project kept moving on schedule and on budget.

Steve specialises in school projects. After practising architecture for many years, he joined the Ministry of Education in 1989 – about the time of Tomorrow’s Schools – as a property manager. After working for 10 years for the ministry, Steve felt he wasn’t comfortable with the way the organisation was heading and decided to leave and to set up on his own as project management company.

106 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

The new venture saw him contract and manage the construction of apartments and also complete work for schools. In 2003 he decided to specialise in the school work more and more, which has now seen him complete a number of new school builds and renovations.

Recently he has project managed 13 new classrooms at St Albans School and other projects at Southbrook School, Farrington School and Rangiora Borough School.

Steve attended Christchurch South Intermediate after immigrating to New Zealand, and has a personal attachment to the project. Although his previous memories included standing outside the principal’s office, as well as sitting in the classroom, he is proud of the school and how it has been modernised and redeveloped to provide a modern new environment for learning.

He feels privileged to have had the opportunity to assist the BOT and staff with the exciting project. “I congratulate Ross together with his staff and the board especially Richard Dear and Shane Dye, Simon, Charles, Fraser and John, for the way they worked collaboratively to ensure the success of the project and look forward to working with them again on future projects.”

For further information contact Steve Bailey Consulting, T (03) 312 5233, or email steve-bailey@xtra.co.nz

Nominations are now open for the following six categories: • PMINZ Project of the Year • PMINZ Public Sector Project of the Year • PMINZ Project Manager of the Year • PMINZ Emerging Project Manager of the Year • PMINZ Volunteer of the Year • PMINZ Research Achievement Award The awards will be presented at the PMINZ 2012 Conference dinner to be held on 26 September at the Wellington Town Hall.

Please send in your nominations by June 29, 2012.

Visit: www.pminzconference.com/ awards/ for more information.

Christchurch South Intermediate 204 Selwyn St Christchurch 8024 T (03) 322 2408 E office@chchsouth.ac.nz www.chchsouth.ac.nz Steve Bailey Consulting T (03) 312 5233 E steve-bailey@xtra.co.nz

Property & Construction | Harcourts Holmwood

The inside line on land Real estate in agrarian societies was simple; those who could defend the land were those who kept it. Today land ownership has moved from being established by strength to being something you can buy, sell, trade and rent.

No man stands alone

Fast Harcourts Holmwood facts

Due to the synergistic nature of teamwork, the company’s success has been a collaboration of a strong band of suppliers.

In particular the company recommends Lings Engineering to its clients for their structural reports. “They are prompt and thorough; everything you want from an engineering company.” Likewise, inspection reports have become vital tools for both sellers and buyers. Harcourts Holmwood recommends Stu Horne from Habit for pre-purchase property inspections. “They are easy and efficient, providing very thorough inspections.”

• Established in 1991

• Both are award winning real estate agents • Holmwood is up with cutting edge information technology • Is a big believer in the importance of people • Focused on results • Believes relationships are integral to success • Comes highly recommended by those who have used the service • Challenges the status quo of the real estate industry • Will do what it takes to give you the best service possible.

While you don’t need the might of an army to keep your land in the modern day, you do need the backing of a strong real estate professional when you wish to move on.

David Canning is no stranger to hard graft.

The Harcourts real estate agent has made significant strides in his career through hard work. Relatively new to the real estate arena, Canning took out the Harcourts Canterbury Rising Star award for the year ending March 2010, just six months after he joined the company. Since then the awards have been adding up; he was eighth in the South Island for Harcourts last year and with more than $20 million in settled sales he was number 14 in the Holmwood sales division this year.

• Brings together expertise of David Canning and Brian Buckingham

Harcourts Holmwood 397-399 Ilam Road Ilam Christchurch T 0800 U B SOLD E david.canning@harcourts.co.nz www.davidcanning.harcourts.co.nz

The organisation has stayed on the cutting edge of information technology and systems. “Success in this industry is determined by who can deliver the highest service levels and the best results,” Canning explains.

— Advertising Feature

Harcourts Holmwood succeeds at this by looking past the numbers, the properties and the awards to what really matters – the people. A Harcourts salesperson will find out But it’s not all about the numbers. as much as they possibly can about a client’s Relationships are the cornerstone of Canning’s requirements, then puts in the researching success, such as the recent partnership of effort to bring every option to the table, Canning with experienced sales professional takes the time to ensure they are completely Brian Buckingham. With more than 17 years in happy with the marketing programme, then the industry and himself featuring numerous gets to work. times in the top 20 best sellers, the pairing It’s an exciting sector to be involved in, is a strong one. “I bring a significant amount because according to Donald Trump, “It’s of experience, but want to take a backseat tangible, it’s solid, it’s beautiful. It’s now,” Buckingham explains. “David is a top artistic, from my standpoint, and I just love performer and our skills merge really well real estate.” together; it’s a strong partnership.”

Designed to improve the real estate experience, the partnership ensures a strong focus on customer care, due to the synergistic nature of teamwork. “If one us is away or has a lot on our plate, the other can quickly and easily take over, ensuring the client still receives the care and attention they deserve.

“It’s not enough for the real estate industry to be saying, ‘we’re going to do this, and this, and this.’ You have to actually get out there and do it,” Buckingham explains. “The real estate experience people are getting just isn’t what they should be getting. Instead of just saying we’re going to improve that experience, we are out there doing it.”

Holmwood’s history HarcourtsHolmwood was established in 1991 to meet the evolving real estate needs of Christchurch. Since then the company has brought a new level of commitment and expertise to the industry and as a result, has found its work to be in great demand.

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We are always looking for properties. Please give us a call for a no fee no obligation appraisal. www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 107

Property & Construction | Harris Home Fires

Marking 125 years of Woodsman home heating Henry Harris, the Christchurch man who founded the Canterbury company in 1887.

The Ferva now stands alongside the Woodsman range, as one of leading examples of the success of the company’s investment in research and development during its 125 year history.

Harris Home Fires, based in Christchurch, is now recognised as the country’s leading New Zealand owned and operated manufacturer and designer of wood burning fires.

<

Richard (left) and Evan Harris are one half of the family owned Harris Home Fires

It seems fitting that while Harris Home Fires, developers of the highly successful Woodsman range of fires, marks its 125th year in 2012, the Canterbury based fire manufacturer is using technology even older than itself to launch a new generation of wood burner, one which not only keeps you warm but recharges your cell phone.

Utilising thermoelectric technology, which was pioneered by Estonian physicist Thomas Johann Seebeck in 1821, and calling on its experience in developing the Woodsman range, Harris Home Fires has designed a free standing wood burner which creates enough power to run a two-speed fan without a mains supply or batteries.

The Ferva Corsair comes with, in addition to the fan which is used to distribute heat more evenly, a USB portal which supplies enough electricity (5VDC @500mA) to power or charge most USB devices.

The new generation of Harris “smart fires” was developed under the direction of Richard Harris the great-great grandson of William

That recognition can partially be attributed to the design and build of its own Woodsman range of wood burners in the 1980s, itself a testament to the company’s research and development programme and a trait seen very early on in the company’s 125 year history.

When William Henry Harris opened his doors in 1887 his best selling items were tin baths, milking buckets and milk churns, along with foot warmers and cake tins. Today the company uses state of the art computer operated machinery to manufacture sheet metal components for companies throughout New Zealand.

Since 1887 the business has changed dramatically. In the mid 1960s Harris Home Fires began manufacturing wood fires for others. The majority of the business these days is in the manufacturing of the Woodsman range of wood, multi-fuel and oil fires.

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Specialists in: • Plate Processing • Plasma • Oxy Fuel • Guillotining • Press Braking PCS congratulates Harris Home Fires on their 125th anniversary

108 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Managing director Evan Harris says their range of more than 40 wood, multi-fuel and oil fires includes insert, zero clearance and freestanding models in both traditional and contemporary styles, and offers a heating solution to suit any home. “The aim of the company is to unite the newest combustion technology with modern design. Our fires offer high efficiency while meeting today’s strict emission standards.”

It is meeting these stricter and changing emission standards, that has led the company to invest more in research and development.

And not just with a wood fuel source. “It was through researching the development of a gas fire range that we came across the technology which has allowed us to design and build the Ferva wood burner,” Evan says.

Richard Harris says they didn’t invent the technology which allowed them to build the Ferva but applied the technology in a way it never had before. He says the development of the Ferva fire is a reflection of the commitment of the family to the company. “Every generation gets the business and keeps adding to it, helping to keep the company relevant.”

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As well as producing its own line of fires, Harris Home Fires is the exclusive national importer and distributor of a range of EFEL fires from Belgium.

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We congratulate them on their milestone Thank them for their support And wish them another successful 125 Years

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Property & Construction | Harris Home Fires

W H Harris Ltd, trading as Harris Home Fires, was established in 1887 and has remained a family business ever since. It is currently run by the fourth and fith generations of the Harris family.

The company’s founder, William Henry Harris, like many a good Victorian fellow, approached his mother for a loan. The loan was duly granted and with it he established the partnership of Harris and Wood: Plumbers and Gasfitters, in 1887. The partner was bought out in 1890. On June 2, 1921 W H Harris became a limited liability company.

Thermoelectrics

Ferva Corsair

• The thermoelectric effect was discovered

by Thomas Johann Seebeck, who was born in Estonia on April 9, 1770.

The new Ferva Corsair is a new generation of wood burner. For the first time Ferva harnesses the science of thermoelectrics to drive a quiet, yet powerful, convection fan which distributes heat more evenly.

• In 1821 Seebeck discovered that a circuit made from two dissimilar metals, with junctions at different temperatures, produces an electric potential (voltage) which can drive an electric current in a close circuit.

Heat from conventional wood burners doesn’t distribute into a room evenly.

A convection fan, which transfers heat through the room using air currents makes, makes sure heat reaches the whole area.

• Thermoelectric Generator technology, or TEG, converts temperature differential to energy, and with no moving parts is reliable and efficient. TEG turns on automatically when a fire is in use and off once the fire cools down.

technological developments having moved into its own purpose-built factory in Braddon St, Addington, in 1969.

In the mid-1960s the company began manufacturing fires, initially for others but soon designing and building its own brands.

The 1970s saw the arrival of air tight high efficiency burners and Harris Home Fires was well placed to take advantage of the

In 1979 Kent Fires released its first wood burning fire and by the following year Harris Home Fires had its own on the market. By 1988 Kent Holdings Ltd had closed its doors but Harris Home Fires continued to grow and develop. <

On his retirement William Henry Harris passed the business on to his sons, Roland and Norman Harris, who in turn passed it on to Roland’s son Graham. Graham’s sons Evan and Peter Harris are the current owners, while, their sons, Richard and Mark, are now both shareholders and involved in running the business.

W.H Harris. Tinsmith 1904

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A family affair

Features:

The fan has two settings – quiet and high. The high setting distributes heat quickly into the room, while the low setting maintains silent running. An LED light indicates when the unit is generating power

• 16kW output

And the innovations don’t end there.

The Corsair comes with a USB portal to recharge mobile phones and other portable devices.

• 10 year firebox warranty

Staff photo from 1920

• 47L firebox capacity • Clear air approved for all zones • 6mm steel firebox

Harris Home Fires 41 Braddon St Addington Christchurch T (03) 366 1796 F (03) 366 1795 www.woodsman.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

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Harris Home Fires factory in Braddon St

Reform Automation congratulate W H Harris on their success of achieving 125 years of business. As a provider of service and sheet metal manufacturing equipment to W H Harris, we wish them continued growth and prosperity.

Include Reform Automation in your decision process for Punch, Laser or bending solutions.

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www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 109

Property & Construction | South Island Shotcrete

A system for stronger buidings Shotcrete is high-strength certified concrete that is sprayed against virtually any substrate.

The low slump concrete undergoes placement and compaction at the same time due to the force with which it is projected from the nozzle.

Ideal for earthquake repairs

Shotcrete is high-strength certified concrete that is sprayed against virtually

The strength and resilience of buildings is something Cantabrians are now far more aware of than they ever wanted to be. One company that’s taken notice is South Island Shotcrete – the company is repairing Canterbury buildings to levels well above the building code, through an innovative spray system that offers superior strength against earthquakes.

Managing director Doug Haselden says South Island Shotcrete is doing a lot of earthquake repair work and many engineers are now looking at this version of placed in-situ as the preferred construction method.

“We’re putting a lot of reinforced concrete skins on the outside and inside of buildings and bringing them above code. We’re also restoring a lot of historical buildings. Our system is incredibly strong. There’s nothing else on the market that comes close to it.”

In the case of earthquake repairs, shotcrete is preferably applied to the interior walls to preserve the outside finish of the building and bring it up to code.

Commitment to Christchurch Haselden lived in Geraldine prior to the February 22 earthquake last year, but was in Christchurch working on a building in Colombo Street when the quake struck. He rescued two people from crushed buses and subsequently received a bravery award for his efforts.

110 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

That day cemented Haselden’s commitment to the city. He sold his Geraldine property and moved to Christchurch. “I have a lot of motivation with my work and want to make sure this level of destruction in Christchurch never happens again,” he says. “On every building I do I put a plaque up and put my name on it, I feel that confident in how strong the building is.”

A no-stress solution In addition to offering an incredibly strong building solution, South Island Shotcrete provides a stress-free service to its customers. “We can organise the soil test, the engineering and council and we deal with the insurance companies and main contractor,” managing director Doug Haselden says. “We bring the building up to code while bringing your stress levels down.”

Simply stronger New buildings made from South Island Shotcrete might be 10 percent more expensive than timber-frame buildings, but are 100 percent stronger, director Doug Haselden says.

He believes shotcrete buildings are the strongest available and can survive large earthquakes without so much as a hairline crack. “What a lot of people don’t realise is that steel-reinforced concrete does flex, but not to the same damaging extent as timber.”

Shotcrete is another version of a cast-in-place concrete wall. Rather than placing concrete into forms however, a fresh mix is sprayed onto wall panels that have been erected in the shape of the building. A nozzleman

applies concrete from a pressurised hose to encompass the reinforcement and build up the wall thickness, forming structural shapes that include walls, floors, roofs, and other assemblies.

Any surface suitable for accepting fresh concrete can be used, including wood, steel, brick, and polystyrene. Finishes are often applied directly to the concrete while it is still wet.

Shotcrete has no weak points and is just one continuous steel reinforced wall that wraps the entire building.

Why choose Shotcrete?

Haselden says while the origins of shotcrete date back to WWII, South Island Shotcrete has developed and patented the system used today. “We can make any shape and mould it to any surface. Our patented technology involves the products we use in the concrete and the tools we use.”

South Island Shotcrete has made bombproof explosive bunkers for military purposes. The bunkers have no joins; just controlled ventilation outlets. “We’re the leading shotcrete company in the southern hemisphere and I’ve advised in the construction of nuclear domes in America,” Haselden says.

South Island Shotcrete PO Box 16987 Christchurch 8441 T (03) 974 1812 E info@southislandshotcrete.co.nz www.southislandshotcrete.co.nz — Advertising Feature

Leading the way towards a new energy efficient city

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A Christchurch firm is hoping to make every new home built in the city, energy efficient and cheaper to run while providing a luxurious environment to live in.

“We’re really wanting to change the way New Zealanders look at the way they’re heating their homes,” HydraHeat director Andrew Stevenson says. By informing new home builders about the benefits of using HydraHeat underfloor heating and Thermass hot water cylinders, both powered by hot water heat pumps, the company is hoping to reduce energy consumption and slash the power bills of those who use the latest technology.

The underfloor heating system has been developed to provide luxurious radiant heat throughout the winter, using the hot water heat pump and warmth of the sun to heat water in the pipes during sunshine hours. It is then stored to release the heat throughout the evening. Polystyrene is laid underneath the pipes with the pipes then threaded in a distinctive pattern to ensure there are no cold spots on the floor – the concrete pad is then poured on top. “Ultimately we’re creating a heat storage device that warms for 24 hours a day but only requires energy for eight hours,” Andrew says.

Right from the word go Because some of the HydraHeat technology is under the concrete pad, it is important the company becomes involved at the planning stage of the house build – whether they have been directly contacted by the home owner or after being recommended by a builder or architect.

In consultation with clients, specialist staff are able to ensure the most effective and ef-

ficient system is installed – all within budget.

This includes the planning of where the heat pump and control will be housed.

Luxurious heat for reasonable price In the past, underfloor heating has been a luxury item, only available to the elite. The HydraHeat system allows for a luxurious environment at a reasonable price. An average 185m² three-bedroom new house with two living areas and one bathroom using 10,000KW hours of electricity, will cost an average of $717 per year to run and the installation costs are well down on past technologies. “If there is extra capital needed to install our system, then it adds to the capital value of the property – the result being the savings you receive can be enjoyed from day one.”

The total commitment of HydraHeat to ensure as many people as possible can enjoy the benefits of radiant heat, the most efficient and effective heating, has seen the company develop an affordable, effective product which will encourage as many people as possible to take up the technology.

“At the end of the day if we can get as many people as possible using these products it will reduce the total energy consumption for New Zealand, hopefully ensuring electricity remains at a reasonable level.

“Just think by installing this technology into your home you can save up to $175 per month on your energy bills – which you could use to cut down your mortgage each month by the same amount,” Andrew says.

Allows maximum living space Because there are no wall-mounted heaters, radiators or heat pumps, the system allows for home owners to utilise all the space in their homes. In the present world of open-plan living, it not only means all wall space can be used, but also gives home owners the freedom to

change the living spaces within the area if they so choose.

“It gives maximum flexibility within a home, which means people are more likely to not outgrow their home. They can adapt and change the spaces as the family grows, grows up and moves on,” Andrew says.

Future proofing You only have one chance at laying pipes in your concrete slab. “At the moment the best way to heat your house is using a hot water heat pump to heat the water in pipes laid in your slab. Just think, in 10 or 20 years there might be new and improved technology to heat this water, it will be impossible to upgrade later if you don’t put pipes in your slab today,” he says.

Resale value The system not only benefits the homeowner during the time they are living there, underfloor heating also increases the value of a property through the savings potential owners could make with reduced energy consumption. “If you can show a potential buyer just how comfortable it is to live in your home and how little you pay in power each year, it has got to be a real advantage when it comes to selling.”

Performance The industry has the Coefficient of Performance (COP) rating which shows typically the ratio of electrical energy used to the heat energy produced. In other terms the COP rating gives you the dollar rating for each kilowatt of electricity you buy. For example a bar heater gives $1 of electricity for each $1 of energy consumed where as the HydraHeat underfloor system produces over $4 of heating for every $1 of electricity used, giving it a COP rating of more than 4. “When you combine the COP and the eight hours of power for 24 hours of heat, you can start to understand why in certain parts of Europe hydronic underfloor heating is used in 80% of new home builds.”

The hot water revolution Reducing hot water costs by up to two thirds is not only good for the bank account but great for cutting energy usage. The Thermass hot water system is an advancement in heat pump technology, providing amazing year-round savings and plentiful supplies of hot water with its 300L cylinder.

The Thermass is a full mains pressure cylinder – which means you get the full power of shower flow every time as well as great pressure for your washing machine or dishwasher. Where possible heat is extracted from the roof cavity during the warmer parts of the day and used to drive the heat pump efficiency even higher. The colder out-take air is fed to the exterior of the house.

For most families, the showers drain much of the hot water during the early morning. The re-heating cycle can be adjusted through the timing controls to run once the feed air is warmed by the sun into the later morning. However the Thermass can be set to run whenever needed around the clock, and the efficiency will still be very effective.

The Thermass re-heat time is faster than conventional hot water cylinders. Because the cylinder is slightly bigger, you need more room than your average hot water cylinder. This is easy to plan in most cases.

In addition the Thermass can be situated in a garage or an appropriate roof space. “We can work with your builders to select the best location for your home, ” Andrew says.

“On average 40 percent of your household energy usage is hot water heating. If you can reduce this by 65 to 75 percent, it is a large reduction in your monthly bills. This system will perform rain or shine, day or night and in winter or summer at a fraction of the cost of installing expensive solar water heating. Instead of installing a standard cylinder, upgrade to a Thermass cylinder and start saving from day one.”

Property & Construction | Keith Hay Homes

Ready-made homes Christchurch manager Cliff Monk says it is a “brand new concept, which is ready to go”.

Park Terrace was designed to be a stepup from the company’s standard range of houses and into the architectural arena.

This contemporary home is the result of the collaboration between Keith Hay Homes and Architex NZ. “It can be quickly constructed and is suitable for many different site applications,” Cliff says.

Design features

This stylish new housing concept is modern, energy efficient and transportable. Keith Hay Homes’ Park Terrace design is a brand new ready-to-be-sold concept with the “architecturallyminded” client in mind.

Business partnerships James Hardie James Hardie is a global leader in the manufacture of fibre cement building materials. Its products such as weatherboard, linea and axon board are a great option for Keith Hay Homes, due to their quality, versatility and durability.

Bestwood The Bestwood brand represents arrange of interior decorative products manufactured by Carter Hold Harvey Woodproducts. It aims to provide colours and finishes for you to confidently specify inspirational and sustainable designs.

Resene

Park Terrace promises to be an innovative and stylish architecturally-designed home.

Compact and contemporary, with its efficient use of space, makes Park Terrace a homeowner’s dream.

• Its highlights include: • An extravagant designer kitchen with built in cabinetry and appliances, an island and two pantries for plenty of storage space • A large living and dining area, complete with an ambient fireplace built into a beautiful feature wall • Floor to ceiling fully-recessing, double glazed glass walls which open onto two covered decks, creating a large sheltered courtyard at the centre of your home • Two generously-proportioned bedroom suites, each with their own en-suite bathroom, deck access and spacious fullwall wardrobes

Renown as leaders in the paint industry, thanks to its ability to provide technical advice, its quality and environmentally friendly products and range of superb colours. Resene was voted best interior paint and best exterior paint in the AGM Specifier Choice Awards.

• A modern, durable and easy to maintain floor finish throughout

Started in 1946 by Eastbourne builder, Ted Nightingale, 60 years on Resene remains a NZ family-owned business.

The standard two-bedroom, 125sgm home has a tag price of $299,000 including GST.

Nulook Nulook’s success in the market place is based upon its ability to offer builders and homeowners a wide range of attractive aluminium window and door profiles for residential and commercial use.

112 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

• A separate powder room for guests.

For those wanting more room there is also the option of expanding the house into a fourbedroom house with a media room and study.

Energy saver Cliff says an added bonus of Park Terrace is its energy efficiency. “We have aimed to create a home that has a Homestar rating of 6 - 7 out of 10. Most houses in New Zealand have a 2-star-rating,” he says.

The higher the rating means the more thermally efficient the house is. Cliff says the Park Terrace house does this through the whole design process, from the insulation to the amount of natural light that gets in. “We want to have as much energy efficiency as possible come in through the design.”

Unshakable Park Terrace is well suited for Cantabrians in search of a new home; because it is built on a wooden piling foundation it withstands shakes much better. Professor Andy Buchanan, a Canterbury University structural engineer, told The Press, houses built on piles with raised floors had suffered less damage in the earthquakes. They would also prove easier to repair because the house could simply be lifted up.

“If I was going to build a new building, especially on a site where I was a bit concerned about the ground underneath, I would not build a slab on the ground,” he said. “I would put piles and lift it up and have a timber floor.”

Property & Construction | Keith Hay Homes

“

We are absolutely thrilled with the performance of Keith Hay Homes…

Our brand new home was delivered to Hororata on 30 July 2010, only a few kilometres from the main epicentre of the Earthquake which struck on 4 September 2010. The Keith Hay Home survived without even a crack. After many subsequent aftershocks a minor crack developed in the Gib board over one door, which Keith Hay repaired free of charge. We are absolutely thrilled with the performance of Keith Hay Homes.

- John and Tish Ballagh

Easily built People itching to live in this stable, stylish home needn’t wait for too long either. It has an estimated construction time of eight to ten weeks and a further two weeks to get it installed on the site of your choice, once building consents have been issued.

Homes are built in a controlled environment, on the Keith Hay Homes’ site, before being transported to your section. This ensures quality control and reducing wastage, disruptions and delays. However if you have access issues the company is also able to build directly on the section.

Keith Hay Homes makes the process easy, taking care of as much as the detail as is required, from the building and resource consents, to special foundations, site excavation and site service connections.

Simply relax and Keith Hay Homes will work on a fixed price contract giving you the comfort that the budget will not blow out.

Park Terrace is currently on show at the HIVE, home innovation village in Christchurch – take

”

a peek inside, but be careful it may just be too tempting to walk away from.

About Keith Hay Homes Keith Hay Homes has a long history in New Zealand, which traces back to 1938. It promises “top quality, affordable homes to suit the New Zealand way of life”.

It is a 100 percent New Zealand-owned, family business, managed by David Hay, son of founder Keith Hay. This nationwide company has gained an excellent reputation through its longevity in the industry – with a total of more than 70 years of experience and more than 22,000 homes to its resume.

From a brand new family home, to farm accommodation, a holiday home, a retirement home, a rental investment or a holiday bach, Keith Hay Homes can do it.

As well as its Park Terrace Home concept, Keith Hay Homes has a large selection of other house plans. All are well designed to utilise maximum space and provide energy

efficiency. These plans can be easily modified to suit your special requirements such as internal garaging or decking.

The company has a vision of “success through satisfied customers”, showing just how much it prides itself on ensuring the best for its customers. The Keith Hay Homes team is wellequipped to advise on all aspects of selecting and building a new home, helping make the whole process of building your dream, easy, hassle free, within both your budget and time constraints.

Personal guarantee As well as only using top quality building materials the company ensures its builders are highly skilled tradesmen who pride themselves on a top quality result. Keith Hay Homes is so sure of the quality of its homes that the managing director, David Hay, has on offer his own comprehensive 5-year personal guarantee.

No man stands alone One of the key reasons Keith Hay Homes are so affordable is thanks to its ability to maintain “excellent, often long-term relationships” with its key suppliers, ensuring the best value and benefits for its customers.

Some of these are Resene, leaders in paint, James Hardie, building material manufacturer, Nulook, windows and doors and Bestwood, interior design supplier.

Keith Hay Homes 533 Main South Road Hornby Christchurch T (03) 349 9102 www.keithhayhomes.co.nz — Advertising Feature

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 113

Argibusiness | Fonterra Darfield

Fonterra delivers for Darfield Located in the heart of one of New Zealand’s fastest growing dairying regions is Fonterra’s first new Greenfield milk processing site in 14 years. Construction on the Fonterra milk drying plant at Darfield, 35kms west of Christchurch, began in April 2011 and will be ready to take milk from local farmers in August.

the past few years and the development at Darfield will help us meet the existing demand for processing in the area. As a farmer shareholder co-operative, we’ve got a responsibility to process the milk they produce.”

The new plant at Darfield will cut down about 20,000 km in heavy vehicle movements every day. Once the whole development is complete, milk will be sourced within a 60km radius of the plant – during the first stage it will be within 35km.

Fonterra decided to develop the production plant at Darfield because of the site’s location in the middle of the Canterbury area, and its proximity to the railway line and port.

Stage one of the development started in April 2011, and once complete the drier will produce 15 tonnes of whole milk powder per hour from the 2.2million litres of milk transported there each day. It will also have dry storage which will store up to 25,000 tonnes of product, roughly 25 percent of the annual production of the drier. The entire milk “At the moment we don’t have any large scale drying process right up to the final product processing in the North Canterbury area,” being packaged takes about 30 minutes.

Fonterra Canterbury operations manager Richard Gray says. “We currently transport Drying milk into powder preserves the milk to our Clandeyboye site near Timaru milk’s nutritional value without the product for processing and sometimes as far afield degrading. It also means the final product as Edendale. There’s been considerable milk has less volume to export around the world. production growth in the South Island over Once the milk powder is delivered, it can be

The Fonterra Clandeboye factory

reconstituted and sold as milk, repackaged and sold as milk powder direct to the consumer, or sold to food producers such as confectioners.

Stage two will see the installation of another drier unit which will be able to process 4.4 million litres of milk each day and a larger dry storage area. “It will increase the production by another 30 tonne per hour. It will be the world’s largest yielding milk powder drier,” Richard says.

As well as the second plant, the train line siding will also be constructed during stage two. This will see trains bringing in coal as well as the dried milk powder railed off-site to the Port. The trains will carry the equivalent of 180 trucks worth of product each day.

When installed, the plant will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week with about 110 employed on-site. At the peak of construction about 600 contractors worked on the project.

The wider community Throughout planning and development Fonterra has worked closely with the local community. There have been two successful open days where up to 750 people visited to see progress on site, as well as receive information on the production process. The community has also had the opportunity to access Fonterra’s Grass Roots Fund which gives local organisations the chance to apply for funding for special projects.

The economic impact of the total development will see $500 million pumped into the economy in the short term, with a long term forecast of $780 million contributed annually to the country’s economy.

It is believed the spin-off will also impact on a local level. Darfield’s services and businesses will see real benefits as the company and its employees inject money into the economy.

guided by an expansive vision.

Calder Stewart is proud to be a contributing builder on

to our entire build team. Working as a partner with

Fonterra’s new state-of-the-art milk powder processing

Fonterra on this project has been rewarding and we’re

plant in Darfield, a project guided by an expansive

proud of the results. Not only will we be handing over

vision to extend NZ milk and dairy products to growing

our part of the project on-time for its August 2012

worldwide markets. Our role to construct a 20,000 sq.

commission date - in the course of construction, we

metre Dry Store along with providing precast concrete

were able to exceed industry best practices in site

panels to various on-site projects has been a privililege

safety, thus ensuring a safe build.

Milton

Christchurch

Invercargill

Ashburton

Blenheim

(03) 417 9777

(03) 338 0013

(03) 214 5544

(03) 307 6130

0800 333 670

Peter Stewart

Adrian Mathieson

Daniel Labes

Donald Sutton

Allister Green

114 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

www.calderstewart.co.nz

A Proud Builder for the Fonterra Co-operative Group

Argibusiness | Fonterra Darfield

The proposed Fonterra Darfield development as it will look in its finished state thanks to the 3D technology of Virtual View.

Working in partnership Pivotal in the successful development has been the relationship between Fonterra and the specialists and contractors. Right from the beginning of the development, experts in their field have been involved ensuring the whole process was efficient, viable and kept moving forward. At times this has meant collaboration with many different parties all with the same focus.

In order to gain consent, Fonterra felt it was important to pull together a team of specialists who were experienced in large projects.

Planning consultants Planit Associates director Dean Chrystal says he became involved in the project in early 2010. “The first thing we looked at was the siting of the factory – where was the most appropriate location, given Fonterra’s requirements for good road and rail access.”

The consultants group had to take into account, among other things, neighbouring properties, the impact on traffic, visibility from the road and emissions. “We looked at ways we could reduce the visual impact, noise and discharge impacts and recommended a site which was well set back from the state highway.”

The specialist consultant group included the Traffic Design Group and Virtual View (3D specialists) as well as landscape architects, acoustic and other experts.

“Each of the project team members produced a report about their particular component then we brought that together as one overall

application which addressed all the various consenting matters.”

The Traffic Design Group was able to give detailed information on the additional traffic associated with the development, evaluating the effects the extra traffic would have on the safety and efficiency of the adjacent transportation networks. It also considered whether the development was in accordance with the traffic and transportation objectives and policies of relevant strategic planning and policy documents.

Using the 3-D Virtual View simulations gave a projected view of the final development.

It was able to include planted trees, the production plant and entrance onto the site. This allowed for Fonterra, the planners, council and stakeholders within the community to get a better grasp on just what impact the project would have.

Planit Associates have been involved in a number of other projects throughout the country: • AMI Stadium redevelopment – prepared the resource consent for the development of the eastern side of the AMI stadium and connecting all stands to create a full circle • Rural Bank House – prepared and obtained resource consent for the development of a retail and office building on the Cathedral Square Colombo St corner inside the Red Zone

Township. The Structure Plan outlined an urban design vision and strategic framework for the future development of Lincoln Township in order to accommodate up to 3,900 households by 2041.

• The Selwyn District Council subsequently commissioned Planit Associates to prepare Plan Change 7 to the District Plan to implement the Lincoln and Rolleston Structure Plans for which the firm, along with the council, recently received the New Zealand Planning Institute’s Best Practice Award and premier Nancy Northcroft Award.

• Northlands Mall expansion • Countdown Hornby, Rolleston and Rangiora • Quest Hotel – prepared the resource consent application to establish the 44 room, six storey Quest Hotel with associated on-site parking and café in Tuam St • Te Rere Hau Wind Farm extension – Manawatu • Lincoln Structure Plan - Planit Associates was one of the lead consultants who prepared a Structure Plan for the Lincoln

• The Press precinct redevelopment - Planit Associates prepared the resource consent for this major redevelopment on Gloucester Street consisting of three tower buildings (including the new Press Building) and incorporating retail development, office space and residential apartments. The development involved the retention of heritage facades, the enhancement of a private lane and the inclusion of a heritage interpretation area.

Planit Associates lodged the whole report within three months to both regional and district councils. “That allowed both councils to see the whole thing and give them a total overview of the whole project.”

It then went through the hearing process and was consented in November 2010, with development starting in January 2011.

Contractors involved in the construction side include Ebert Construction, GEA Process Engineering, Silvester Clark, Octa Associates and Fulton Hogan. All are now working to ensure the project is now finished in August.

3D VISUALISATION SPECIALISTS

Our 3D photo simulations helped get Fonterra’s Darfield Milk Plant flowing

PLANIT ASSOCIATES – PROUDLY ASSOCIATED WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF FONTERRA’S DARFIELD MILK POWDER PLANT Planit Associates are an award winning planning consultancy based in Christchurch. The firm was the lead consultant on the consenting of Fonterra’s Darfield Milk Powder Plant and was closely involved in the initial stages of the project providing strategic advice on its location and operations to achieve a sustainable environmental outcome.

Planit Associates continues to be involved in a wide range of projects for a variety of clients throughout the country, including the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery.

Contact: (03) 3779829 or email dean@planitassociates.co.nz for further information. www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 115

Argibusiness | Fonterra Darfield

GEA brings advanced milk processing technology to Darfield GEA Process Engineering New Zealand is well on the way to completing its largest ever dairy project in New Zealand, with the new Fonterra milk processing plant on a greenfield site at Darfield coming on stream this August.

New Zealand exports around 90 percent of the milk it produces and the Canterbury area is no exception. Local milk flows are increasing by four to six percent per year and the capacity to process locally has been exhausted. Tankers routinely take milk to Timaru or further afield, even as far as the Edendale plant in Southland. Once the Darfield site is up and running, those same tankers will travel no further than 40kms to pick up milk, meaning a total reduction of 20,000kms/day in travelling.

The plant at Darfield converts the liquid milk into whole milk powder which is stable and easier to transport. GEA New Zealand has supplied a complete turnkey plant that takes the milk right from the reception from the farm through standardisation, concentration using falling film evaporators, spray drying in some of GEA’s most advanced equipment, powder handling and packaging ready for dispatch. When phase one opens in August it will have the capability of handling up to two million litres of milk a day. Phase two will open a year later, adding a further 4.4 million litres capacity and will use the world’s largest spray dryer to produce 720 tonnes of powder a day for export, primarily to Asia and the Middle East.

Latest technology and design techniques The Darfield site will be a showcase site and employ around 160 local people when it’s complete. GEA Process Engineering won the order in early 2011 and focused all its experience on the design.

Clint Brown, project director for GEA, who had a team of 30 locally and internationally based staff working on the Darfield design, says the design process incorporated revolutionary advanced modelling techniques that will produce a highly efficient plant. “We’re using a lot more design modelling technology these days before tackling the mechanical side,” he explaines. This has involved GEA using its 3D modelling software that allowed GEA engineers to have full access to the plant layout before anything was constructed.

This will create a much more efficient plant in terms of productivity, and will also ensure that the environmental effects to the local area are minimised. “The technology we’re dealing with is far more advanced than even five years ago, and that’s coming from research and development within GEA,” says Clint. “We’ve designed this plant with the total cost of ownership in mind. We have concentrated on getting the detail right and we’ve spent a lot of time with our builder (Ebert Construction Limited) optimising the layout to make sure it’s efficient.”

“

Working together To achieve this level of sophistication GEA and Fonterra have had to work together to combine their experience and expertise.

“It’s been a real partnering relationship,” says Clint. “We have worked closely with Fonterra to develop the best design and minimise any rework on-site during the mechanical installation.”

Automation Automation has been a key factor. This is an area which has seen significant advances in technology over recent years and the outcome is a highly automated process, which means that operators can focus on producing a high quality product and not get sidetracked by performing repetitive manual tasks.

On stream in August Expectations for performance are high. As of August, the first dryer should be producing milk powder around the clock with a target of 85,000 tonnes of whole milk powder a year (the equivalent to 5,000 20-foot

The technology we’re dealing with is far more advanced than even five years ago, and that’s coming from research and development within GEA - Clint Brown, Project Director for GEA

Steve Keelty is Fonterra’s design manager for the plant. “We’ve been operating these plants now for many years, so we have an in-depth knowledge about their maintenance, operation and service requirements. My role has been to share some of that knowledge with GEA to make sure that our experience is captured in the design. These plants operate continuously so we’ve needed to ensure the proposed design is going to meet those operational requirements. There’s been a big focus on reliable equipment. The result should be a plant that is reliable, without breakdowns and unplanned stoppages.”

116 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

”

shipping containers) bound for markets in Asia, the Middle East and Africa. When the second stage of the project comes on stream next year it will provide almost twice that processing capacity.

Steve Keelty says that the biggest efficiency gains will arise from the fact that the plant is going to be so much closer to its catchment area and Fonterra plans to build a rail link for stage two, so product can be transported directly to the port at Lyttelton. “We’ve got a very efficient supply chain there. The hope is that it will result in milk powder being produced far more efficiently.”

GEA Process Engineering GEA Process Engineering is a world leader in spray drying technology with over 70 years’ experience and some 10,000 plants worldwide. By combining the relevant technologies of the GEA Group, GEA Process Engineering is able to bring together process plant, such as that at Darfield, in a seamless way to provide dairy processors with the most advanced plants in the world that are productive, profitable, kind to the environment and great places to work.

GEA Process Engineering unites deep-rooted insight in food and dairy processing with technological edge to supply complete state-of-the-art process lines that fulfil the demand for food safety, product quality, plant efficiency and sustainable production. That is how we have become the leading supplier of process technology to the dairy industry worldwide.

GEA Process Engineering Ltd.

356 Church Street, P.O. Box 12479, Penrose - Auckland, New Zealand + 64 9 52 63344, sales@geap.co.nz, www.geap.co.nz

engineering for a better world

GEA Process Engineering

Argibusiness | Fonterra Darfield

Fonterra’s formula The Fonterra Co-operative Group is one of the world’s leading dairy companies.

It was created in 2001 from a merger between two co-operatives both with over 100 years of dairying tradition. It is owned by 10,500 farmer shareholders who are paid Fonterra’s operating surplus as payment for their milk. Fonterra also pays out distributable profits (after retentions) by way of dividends on shares.

Fonterra is New Zealand’s largest company, operating in more than 100 markets around the world. Export returns from these markets account for some 26 percent of New Zealand’s total export earnings.

It is a supply partner to many of the world’s leading food companies and its partnerships include global and regional agreements to supply basic dairy ingredients such as milk powder, cheese for burgers and pizzas, milk for lattes, and functional ingredients such as specialised proteins for advanced nutrition products. The co-operative partners with the five largest infant formula manufacturers in the world, providing semi or fully-finished products.

Fonterra’s Foodservice business operates in 50 countries and in 2011, generated $1 billion in revenue. It’s become one of the fastest growing categories as producers compete to supply products and services to hotels, restaurants, cafes, fast food, bakeries, airlines, workplaces, entertainment venues and institutions. Fonterra’s portfolio of

COMMERCIAL

cheese, cream, butter, yoghurt, pastries and beverages is designed to meet the needs of chefs and commercial kitchens around the world.

Its consumer brands business has a fastgrowing presence in Asia, Africa and the Middle East, coupled with its strong businesses in Australia and New Zealand.

Fonterra sells to consumers in 40 countries, with a growing portfolio of products. The combined businesses contributed almost $560 million of Fonterra’s overall profit in the last financial year.

In a typical year, Fonterra sells around 350 million metric tonnes (MT) of dairy commodities every hour, closing the doors on a container of export product every five minutes at New Zealand export ports. Sales are managed through a global network supported by the New Zealand-based Fonterra customer service centre which works round the clock and in eight languages.

Fonterra has 26 processing sites in New Zealand, 11 in Australia and another 50 around the world. This gives it the scale to process some 20 billion litres of milk a year.

These assets include the world’s largest dairy ingredients manufacturing site in Whareroa, Taranaki. On site are five powder plants, two cheese plants and plants producing cream product, casein and whey. Every hour, Whareroa can produce more than 20 tonnes of milk powder and 30 tonnes of butter, and more than 35,000 tonnes of protein powder per year.

INDUSTRIAL

Meeting increasing demand International demand for dairy products is expected to continue to increase by more than two percent each year according to the Food and Agriculture Policy Research Institute (FAPRI).

Fonterra people include farmers, farm advisory specialists, environmental experts, research scientists, food technologists, cheese makers, manufacturing and engineering staff, tanker drivers, trade and regulatory experts, nutritionists, economists, process development technologists, logistics managers, sales, marketing and brand managers, accountants, lawyers, IT specialists and administrators. Fonterra is a significant employer with 16,800 permanent employees, 10,800 of them based in New Zealand.

This growth is being driven by:

The New Zealand dairy industry is responsible for around a third of international dairy trade.

Fonterra collects over 15 billion litres of milk a year from New Zealand farms and sells more than 2.5 million tonnes of dairy ingredients in world markets, of which around 2.1 million tonnes came from New Zealand.

• People are increasingly looking for food that is both easy to prepare and good for you

PROCESS

• Incomes in new and emerging markets, such as China and the Middle East, are increasing and dairy is becoming more affordable for consumers in these countries • People throughout Asia are increasingly adopting western diets and tastes - this includes an appetite for dairy • Consumers becoming more aware of health and nutrition

• The dairy industry is continually developing new products and new ways of providing customers with the benefits found in dairy.

LOGISTICS

COMMUNITY

Performance based Design Build Service Award Winning Building Solutions Review our Project Portfolio w w w. e b e r t . c o . n z WELLINGTON

04 587 0000

118 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

wn@ebert.co.nz

AUCKLAND

09 309 8095

ak@ebert.co.nz

Argibusiness | Fonterra Darfield

New strategy for growth Fonterra launched its Group Strategy Refresh towards the end of March which aims to grow volumes and value by focusing more tightly on emerging markets, and products that meet growing consumer demand for dairy nutrition.

It follows an in-depth look at the co-operative’s strengths, social and economic trends as well as underlying projections for a marked increase in global demand for milk.

The full strategic refresh amounts to over 100 discrete projects, many already underway, to focus Fonterra’s efforts going forward. It includes:

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Fonterra advisory chef Teoh Joo Cheong, right, shows Fonterra chief executive Theo Spierings, centre, and Fonterra China president Philip Turner, left, the new pastry and baking equipment in the Shanghai innovation centre.

A strong push on the fast-growing emerging markets of China, ASEAN and Latin America where Fonterra already has a strong presence.

• Optimising the New Zealand milk business to drive cash and improve return on capital • Building integrated milk pools (secure, high-quality sources of milk integrated with Fonterra’s business) offshore to bring higher value returns back to New Zealand and protect New Zealand exports • Growing volumes of higher value consumer branded and out-of-home nutrition • A tighter focus on meeting the advanced nutrition needs of mothers and babies, as well as ageing populations supported by targeted innovation in these areas as well as out-of-home nutrition.

Fonterra operations manager Richard Gray

The markets Fonterra has substantial interests across Asia, Latin America, Australia and its home market New Zealand.

In the financial year ending July 31, 2011, it sold its products in more than 100 countries with the biggest markets being Asia (29 percent), Australia (13 percent), China (9 percent), New Zealand (8 percent), USA (8 percent), Europe (6 percent) and rest of the world (27 percent).

It has manufacturing plants and farms in key markets and is continuously increasing its asset base in these areas. In the past few months it has announced the purchase of two additional farms in China; it will be investing in a blending and packing plant in Indonesia and recently opened an innovation centre in Shangai.

Asia In China, it has a solid distribution network covering approximately 40 cities; dairy consumption is growing by 10 percent every year. Similarly in other developing markets such as Vietnam, dairy consumption grew from less than one kg per capita per year in the early 1990s to almost 10kg at the start of this decade.

Fonterra plans to establish an integrated milk business in China that processes high quality milk from Chinese farms into dairy nutrition for Chinese customers and consumers. With consumption in China expected to double by 2020, the country will be consuming more than 70 billion litres of milk every year by

2020.

In Malaysia, Fonterra commands 76 percent share of the adult milk category through its Anlene brand and 80 percent share for

prenatal dairy products with Anmum.

Fonterra is also the largest dairy company in Sri Lanka, with a market share of close to 50 percent.

Across Asia, it currently employs over 2,500 employees in 15 operating countries.

Australia Fonterra’s Australian operations represent a fundamental pillar of the ANZ trans-Tasman business unit. Through Fonterra’s legacy companies, generations of Australians have grown-up with Fonterra’s products including: Western Star butter, Perfect Italiano cheese, Mainland cheese and Ski yoghurt.

Fonterra Darfield T (03) 317 9703 E darfieldcommunity@fonterra.com W www.fonterradarfield.com — Advertising Feature

Fonterra’s Australian operations came to formation in 2001 when it acquired a 25 percent stake in Victorian dairy processor Bonlac Foods. Since then, Fonterra Australia has expanded by acquiring other trusted, well-know Australian companies including Bonland Dairies and Murrumbidgee Dairy Products and in mid-2006, completed the full acquisition of Bonlac Foods.

Today, Fonterra Australia employs 2000 people, collects 21 percent of Australia’s milk and operates 10 manufacturing sites in NSW, Tasmania and Victoria. It is a leading dairy consumer business and its vision is to be the natural source of dairy nutrition for all Australians. It collects almost 1.8 billion litres of milk annually from 1,400 farmer suppliers and their 300,000 dairy cows.

Proud to be associated with Fonterra Traffic Engineering - Transportation Planning | www.tdg.co.nz

Its brands hold leading positions in cheese, spreads, yoghurts and dairy desserts. It also operates a dedicated sales channel for the food service industry and has a strong dairy ingredients business which exports to customers around the world.

Silvester Clark is proud to have worked with Ebert Construction and GEA Process Engineering on the Fonterra Darfield project and many others.

Octa is proud to have provided programming support services to Fonterra and Babbage for the successful completion of the Darfield Dryer #1 project.

Since 1973 Octa Associates Ltd has provided independent professional project management services and has developed a reputation for delivering successful projects to our clients.

Octa has offices in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin and Christchurch.

Level 1, 71 Cambridge Terrace P.O. Box 2506 CHRISTCHURCH 8140

www.octa.co.nz

office@ch.octa.co.nz T: (03) 366 4816 F: (03) 366 4854

Palmerston North & Wellington www.silvesterclark.co.nz | E: office@silvesterclark.co.nz

www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 119

Agrisbusiness | Anderson & Rooney

Delivering dairy farm solutions A positive partnership

Anderson and Rooney Engineering Co Limited is a specialist supplier of farm dairy solutions to dairy farmers. Under its new AgRural brand, Anderson and Rooney is Canterbury’s leading provider of turnkey dairy sheds, providing a full design, planning and commissioning service for new cowsheds.

The team at Anderson and Rooney recognise that every farm is different and every farmer has a different way of doing things.

DeLaval dairy products As an agent for DeLaval in Canterbury and North Otago, Anderson and Rooney provide the full range of DeLaval products. DeLaval has more than 125 years of innovation and experience within the dairy industry.

are all available at Anderson and Rooney’s retail stores at 20 King Street, Temuka, and 809 Jones Road, Rolleston.

Anderson and Rooney Engineering enjoys a close working relationship with DeLaval, which runs its New Zealand operation in Hamilton.

The company has sales branches in Temuka and Winchester and has recently opened a new branch at Rolleston. Staff are also located in Ashburton, Waimate and Oamaru, ensuring the company offers a complete sales and backup service throughout Canterbury and North Otago.

“DeLaval has high-quality products,” Anderson and Rooney general manager Grant Mehrtens says.

“It’s one of, if not the, market leader in international milking systems. We have great success in getting that equipment to operate down here.”

DeLaval offers a range of high-quality feeding systems, including the DeLaval RF400 for rotary dairies, a molasses feeding system, the CF150 automatic calf rearing system and Alpro Herd Management systems, including blood and conductivity detection and auto drafting, with all cow details on one central computer system.

DeLaval has milking systems to suit any size dairy farm, from single cluster milking systems right up to the latest fully automated 80-bail rotary milking equipment. All systems are fully customisable so it is easy to alter your milking machine as your dairy farm needs change.

Its range of products includes animal health, rubber-ware, cleaning products, apparel and clothing, consumables, liners, milk filters, milking shed systems and accessories, animal handling, pumps and effluent systems. These

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The company designs and builds dairy buildings for both herringbone and rotary dairies. Each building is purpose-built to suit the farm, stock numbers and milking equipment.

Anderson and Rooney also build yards, backing gates and overhead electric gates at its Winchester manufacturing facility. The company maintains complete quality control over every step in the manufacturing chain.

A DeLaval VMS voluntary milking system robot.

Choosing the right dairy shed for you Anderson and Rooney’s dairy buildings come complete with engineering design, producer statements and overall dairy design.

Rotary dairy sheds • Rotary dairy buildings are large clear-span buildings built to withstand the daily rigors of any dairy milking operation.

• They come with a variety of options to suit your farming operation, including lean-to service rooms, extra bays, mezzanine floors and concealed services partitions.

• Full or half underpasses are available to gain access to the platform centre.

• They are fully constructed with galvanized RHS steel including steel portals and purlins for added strength.

Proud to be suppliers to Anderson & Rooney Engineering Co Ltd

Herringbone dairy sheds • Anderson and Rooney’s herringbone dairy buildings have been designed with flexibility in mind. The modular design makes it easy to add onto and extend the shed if required.

• Extra room has been allowed at entry and exit points for ease of use, shelter and weather protection.

• All herringbone dairy buildings are fully customisable with all pipe work, zigzags, entry and exit gates and adjustable breast rails available in your choice of cow spacings.

• They are fully constructed with galvanized RHS steel.

• They also feature galvanized RHS steel portals and purlins for added strength.

• Each bay can accommodate up to four cows.

• Pit edge rail and full length kick rails are included.

Commercial & Farming Accounting Specialists • Business Mentoring / Improvement • Personal & Professional Services • Farming & Commercial Expertise • New Business Assistance • Estate, Trust & Succession Planning • Taxation Advice

PHONE 03 687 2080 16a Hilton Highway, Washdyke | T. 03 684 5037 | www.blackwoodsprotector.co.nz 120 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Nick Noone CA - Director Antony Ford CA - Director Tom Simpson CA - Director

E. office@nfsca.co.nz W. www.nfsca.co.nz Woollcombe House 2nd Floor, 18 Woollcombe St PO Box 540, Timaru 7940

Argibusiness | Anderson & Rooney Far Left: A new rotary platform fitted with Alpro herd management and automatic cup removers. < The centre of new rotary milking platform from Anderson and Rooney.

Anderson and Rooney project services • The team at Anderson and Rooney form alliances to create your ideal milking shed and will oversee the project at every step of the way, including:

Automatic milking systems Canterbury dairy farmers looking to gain maximum production from their operation are starting to realise the benefits of robotic milking systems.

Anderson and Rooney Engineering is an agent for DeLaval, which has developed the world’s first automatic milking rotary system. The DeLaval AMR was launched in September 2010 and was recently chosen as a top-10 new product at the World Ag Expo 2012 in California.

Mehrtens believes New Zealand cows have often traditionally been under fed.

“The people who have introduced grain feeding and other forms of supplement feeding have noticed significant increases in production over basic pasture-based production,” he says.

“Barns and robots will take this to another level, through the amount of monitoring that is available.”

The DeLaval automatic milking system allows farmers to accurately monitor feeding, record Anderson and Rooney general manager milk yields and control cow activity. It means Grant Mehrtens says he’s fielding a growing farmers can quickly identify any problems that number of inquiries from customers interested occur with milking, feeding, breeding in automatic milking systems in barn or and health. grassland situations.

The DeLaval range of automatic milking systems makes it possible to farm at the push of a button. The systems can be included in a new dairy farm set up or added to existing dairies to enhance any farming operation.

DeLaval currently has two robotic milking installations in the North Island, with interest growing in the South Island.

Automatic rotary platform Mehrtens says DeLaval also has a new automatic milking system for rotary dairy platforms.

• Visiting you at your farm to discuss your dairy shed and dairy farm equipment needs

What Anderson and Rooney can do for you

• Developing a farm dairy design that will deliver the performance you require

Anderson and Rooney can take the stress out of sourcing your dairy farm requirements by being the one point of contact for the entire project.

• Recommending and supplying the latest DeLaval milking machines and rotary and herringbone milking platforms

“We offer a complete dairy shed,” general manager Grant Mehrtens says.

“We have teamed up with a number of builders in different regions. Sometimes the builder builds the entire shed and we just install the milking plant, but in other cases we will do the structural steel, the backing gates and yards, as well as the milking system.

• Personally completing the structural steel, yards, gates and plumbing part of your dairy shed project • Organising the various contractors involved in completing your dairy shed, including builders, plumbers, refrigeration suppliers and electricians.

“We’ve found that many clients prefer to deal with fewer contractors, so we will get the quotes from the other contractors involved and present it with our deal. It means you only have to deal with one company.”

The robot features up to five arms - two for cleaning the teats, two for installing the millking cups and one for teat spraying.

While most larger farms already have rotary platforms for handling a large number of cows in an hour, the automatic milking system features milking arms on the inside of the platform, with the cows standing side-on to the centre of the platform.

Anderson and Rooney’s custom-made barns are the perfect complement to the automatic milking system.

The automatic nature of the system means there is significantly less labour required for milking.

“The cows are kept both warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Because the cows don’t spend as much energy keeping warm, they convert that into more milk. Production is well up.”

Anderson and Rooney, through DeLaval, has access to a wide range of products to go into cow barns, including tipping troughs, stalling, effluent scrapers, pumps, brisket boards and cow mattresses.

Anderson and Rooney Engineering Co Limited 20 King Street Temuka 7920 Freephone 0800 00 11 33 T (03) 687 8008 F (03) 615 0021 E internetenquiries@agrural.co.nz www.anderson-rooney.co.nz

A new cow barn from Anderson and Rooney Engineering under construction.

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“If you go to Europe, robotic milking systems make up 50 percent of DeLaval’s sales. We see barns with automatic milking systems as the way of the future. They offer a number of benefits - most, if not all of the effluent is captured for spreading on pastures, and there’s a lot less water used,” Mehrtens says.

— Advertising Feature

Pleased to be associated with Anderson & Rooney Engineering Ltd

• ALTERATIONS • CONCRETE WORK • DAIRY & FARM SHEDS • NEW HOMES plus any other Building Work - BIG or small

DOMESTIC INDUSTRIAL AGRICULTURAL For pumps that offer excellence in both performance and construction.

32 Washdyke Flat Road, Timaru

E: info@tonyboyce.co.nz www.tonyboyce.co.nz

03 688 2181

Pedrollo - proven performance! www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 121

Transport & Motoring | Thrifty Car Rentals

Thrifty helps keep Cantabrians on the move Thrifty Car Rental has cemented its commitment to Christchurch with the launch of its newly renovated location at the Christchurch International Airport which opened in February. It is a commitment which has spanned more than 25 years in the region and a commitment which has only become stronger in light of recent tectonic events.

Directly following the Canterbury earthquake, the company committed more than $200,000 worth of free car rental for both individuals and organisations in need. Owned by NRMA Motoring and Services, Thrifty has maintained a head office in Christchurch since its establishment in New Zealand in 1987, now employing about 50 people in the region, says Thrifty Car Rental general manager for New Zealand, Emma Gardiner.

“The company is founded on the key values of community. Following the earthquake we were able to provide vehicles to individuals who had lost their cars in the earthquake and organisations such as the Red Cross, the Salvation Army and other organisations which required that assistance. We’re really lucky as a business to have a parent company which supports us and enables us to contribute in such a way.”

The company slogan of ‘How can we help today?’ goes some way to describing the company’s service driven culture and its innovative new store design aligns itself strategically with this motto. “Our new store design is a flagship design for Thrifty NZ. We wanted to challenge the traditional counter design for car rental stores by providing an open and welcoming environment to better engage with our customers. We’re really excited about bringing innovation into this space and this is just the start of a range of ideas we have planned.”

Behind the brand It’s played an important role in the business landscape of Canterbury for more than 25 years, so let’s take a look behind the brand.

Thrifty Car Rental has a modern fleet and offers great value car hire and friendly customer service in more than 33 locations around New Zealand. The exclusive partner to the Automobile Association, Thrifty offers year round offers on car rental both in New Zealand and Australia.

“This allows us to offer year round specials on car rental in both New Zealand and Australia and we are able to offer discounts through AA Smartfuel,” Thrifty Car Rental General Manager for New Zealand, Emma Gardiner explains. “We have a modern and diverse fleet with nationwide locations.”

The company’s Blue Chip Express Rental programme offers frequent customers a

speedy service, no matter where you are in the world and, if you’re not familiar with the territory, you can add a GPS navigation unit to your Thrifty rental.

The company is fully committed to the Canterbury rebuild and looks forward to many years to come in the region. “We will always see Christchurch as the gateway to the South Island. We also have full coverage across Australia, with 210 locations around the country, so we are well positioned to cater for tourism numbers as they pick up.”

No man stands alone Like much in life, the success of Thrifty’s new store was the result of teamwork.

“Our Agency, Plato Design, proved a strong factor in the success of the renovations and Thrifty was pleased to see the approachable personality of the brand translated into a physical space,” Emma Gardiner says. “We’re really happy with the design and finish of the store.

Plato’s creative design skills enabled them to make the most of the space and bring our ideas to life.”

Hierarchy Design provided the interior design skills to the fitout and was a significant factor in the superior quality of the completed project. “Hierarchy worked with us and Plato throughout the design and construction process to ensure the finish was ideal and on time.

The aesthetics of any design project is integral and Hierarchy did an amazing job

122 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

Fast Thrifty facts • Extremely competitive rates • 33 convenient airport, city and ferry locations nationwide • With an average vehicle age of just 12 months, AA Thrifty offers one of the newest fleets of cars, 4WD’s and mini buses in the business • Frequent renters can jump the queue, breeze through with no paperwork and be rewarded for their loyalty with the Blue Chip express rental programme • Car rental partner to the Automobile Association, where AA Members receive exclusive benefits and yearround offers on car rental in New Zealand and Australia • Exclusive car rental partner to AA Smartfuel, a fuel discount rewards programme available FREE to all New Zealand motorists • Excellent ANCAP vehicle ratings, demonstrating a commitment to customer safety • Friendly, courteous staff who pride themselves on passionate, individual service… every time.

Thrifty Car Rental New Zealand 0800 73 70 70 E reservations@thrifty.co.nz www.thrifty.co.nz

— Advertising Feature

Transport & Motoring | McGirr Motors

Adapting to a new Christchurch McGirr Motors in Peterborough Street is committed to Christchurch’s central city.

The business has been providing a high level of automotive service to Cantabrians since the 1940s and has no plans to move out of the CBD, despite the destruction and mass evacuation from the area following the earthquakes.

Owner and director Gary Lake says while business has dropped off since the February earthquake closed the CBD, he is committed to the city and his customers.

“People came to us because we were in the central CBD. They dropped their car off on the way to work and picked it up on the way home,” he says.

“We’ve had to change the way we do things since the earthquake because people have moved out to the suburbs. Now we’re doing pick ups and delivery and dropping people at work. We also have courtesy cars available.”

Cordons put in place after February 22 meant McGirr Motors could not operate out of its Peterborough Street workshop for three months, but the small team managed to keep the business going from another workshop, kindly hosted by Aceomatic Transmission Services in Stanmore Road. “We also acknowledge MTA support in the aftermath of the earthquake. Their premises did not suffer major damage, with all services now back up and running.

“We’re committed to staying where we are.

I have no intention of moving out to the

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McGirr Motors owner Gary Lake, right, with mechanic Yutaka Shibahara outside the Peterborough Street workshop.

suburbs - I will keep going until the central city comes back,” Lake says.

“I believe the central city will come back and I’ve made the decision not to move. I like where we are and I like the customers we’ve got. I just want to let people know that we’re here - we’re back.”

A history of service to the city McGirr Motors is a business founded on good old-fashioned honesty and friendly service.

The company’s origins date back to the 1940s, with the business purchased by Gary and Peggy Lake in 1999.

Gary Lake works fulltime in the business as a senior mechanic with more than 20 years’ experience. His services are complemented by Japanese mechanic Yutaka Shibahara, who is a great asset to the business in dealing with its many Japanese customers. “Our vibrant office manager Anna Costic is the main point of contact for customers and keeps everything running smoothly,” Lake says.

“

I believe the central city will come back and I’ve made the decision not to move.

I like where we are and I like the customers we’ve got. I just want to let people know that we’re here - we’re back.

- Owner and director Gary Lake

Lake and Shibahara provide a full range of automotive and mechanical service and repairs, specialising in servicing and modifying light four-wheel drive vehicles.

”

“We do four-wheel drives but we mainly just do general mechanical repairs,” Lake says.

“We work on anything and everything.”

McGirr Motors reminds customers when their Warrants of Fitness are up for renewal and when their vehicles are due for a service.

Lake and his small team are available at any time to discuss your vehicle concerns or requirements. “We offer great service, we’re friendly, and we’re both trade-certified mechanics.” <

McGirr Motors offers an old-fashioned, honest and friendly service.

• AUTO ELECTRICAL AUTOMOTIVE AUTO ELECTRICAL AIR CONDITIONING

– CENTRAL CITY LOCATION – – UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT – Proud to be associated with Mcgirr Motors

• AIR CONDITIONING • FUEL INJECTION • MECHANICAL REPAIRS

Celebrating 20 years in bussiness

• LATEST DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS 7 Clarkson Ave, Christchurch

Ph: (03) 377 9650

www.vantageauto.co.nz

• ALL MAKES & MODELS • POWER & MANUAL STEERING REPAIRS • RACK ENDS IN STOCK • FULL TESTING & WORKSHOP FACILITIES PO Box 12211, 25 Aldwins Road, Christchurch “The Old Edmonds Site” Fax: 351 3350

www.powersteeringshop.co.nz 03 381 2332 powersteering@xtra.co.nz www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 123

Transport & Motoring | McGirr Motors McGirr motors is: • An owner/operator business • A Motor Trade Association (MTA) member • Located in a convenient central city location • 4WD enthusiasts and specialists • Friendly, qualified and experienced.

News | Motoring McGirr Motors offers its customers: • WOF and reminder facility • Car servicing and reminder facility

Vehicle emissions rule must look at the whole fleet

• Full mechanical repairs: All makes and models, petrol and diesel • Tyre fitting and balancing • Pick up and delivery service by agreement • Competitive pricing • Personal attention • Good old fashioned, honest and friendly service.

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McGirr Motors offers courtesy cars and a drop off/pick up service for customers.

The importance of business relationships McGirr Motors in Peterborough Street received great support from its suppliers during the difficult months following Christchurch’s February 2011 earthquake.

McGirr Motors was locked out of its central city premises for three months, with its income severely limited during that time.

Owner Gary Lake says most of his suppliers were extremely understanding during that period, when McGirr Motors had limited ability to pay its bills.

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The friendly team at McGirr Motors

These valued suppliers include Capricorn Society, Repco, Automan Automatics, Pennzoil and many others.

The government’s announcement about plans to update the rules setting emissions standards for vehicles coming into New Zealand is, according to the Motor Trade Association (MTA), a good move - but it must also consider an even bigger polluter – New Zealand’s current vehicle fleet.

Proposed changes to the 2007 Vehicle Exhaust Emission Rule will ensure that New Zealand continues to import new vehicles that are built to the highest emissions standards and would mirror those recently introduced in Australia for the introduction of the European standards – Euro 5 and Euro 6.

MTA spokesperson Ana Zandi says “We support government’s plans and think that it’s appropriate that our emissions standards keep pace with overseas industry developments. The used import industry only recently moved to revised exhaust emissions standards in January this year, so it’s a good move to extend the standard beyond the end of 2012, and consider any other further changes in 2014.”

McGirr Motors 127a Peterborough Street Christchurch 8013 T (03) 379 6698 F (03) 374 9472 E gary@mcgirrmotors.co.nz www.mcgirrmotors.co.nz — Advertising Feature

124 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

We also need to consider the 2.4 million vehicles already on our roads. Some of these vehicles are of considerable age, are well into their life expectancy, and are also likely to stay in use for many years to come.”

There are clear advantages for all New Zealanders from in-service emissions testing.

Not only would this improve overall air quality, but there would be health benefits for many people. New Zealand would also use, and thus need to import less fuel, and there would be cost savings for individual vehicle owners who would potentially use less fuel.

“In-service testing of vehicle emissions is a widely accepted practice in many other countries. If government is serious about reducing vehicle emissions, then we need to make this a priority and periodically test all vehicles in our fleet.”

Eyesight wins technology award Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist system has won a prestigious Japanese government science and technology award. The awards honour those who have made noteworthy contributions either to the research and development of science and technology, or to its public understanding.

EyeSight uses stereo camera technology to provide driver assistance in a variety of conditions. The features include Pre-Collision Braking that can stop the vehicle if it detects the risk of frontal collision.

MTA says while there is a focus on the exhaust emissions standards applying to vehicle imports (both new and used), it is disappointing that government has not signalled any interest to look at the majority of the current fleet.

FHI successfully developed EyeSight to use one sensor which not only controls the driving support system, but also measures the distance, the speed difference and the relative positions between the front of the vehicle and another car.

“If government are really concerned about reducing fleet emissions, there is a need to look at what we currently have on our roads as the real polluters of our atmosphere.

Emissions entry standards only look at the 150,000 or so vehicles entering New Zealand each year (as new or used imports).

Since its introduction in Japan, this userfriendly system has been highly praised for a good balance between its affordable pricing and excellent utility.

In New Zealand, EyeSight will be introduced on high grade 2013 Legacy and Outback models late this year.

View these photos and more online at www.canterburytoday.co.nz

been seen

Images taken and supplied by Lynne Puddy-Greenwood, Events Editor.

Clients and friends enjoyed the reopening of Lighting Plus’s new extensive, plush refurbished premises in Morehouse Ave. 1. Claire & Mark Quinn (AD Fence).

2. Dave Barlow (GM), Barry Mellor (MD).

3. Helen Lucas, Graeme Riach (Harmen Lawyer).

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4. Kerry Jeffrey, Chris Bell, Tom Jeffrey.

5. Craig & Anthea Bussell (Space).

6. Lena & Bryan Doull (Dwell Homes).

7. Nicky Wagner, Kirsten Chambers.

8 Pauline Robinson (Cantabuild), Sue Mitchell.

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Everybody was dressed in the 1920’s theme at the annual Fundraising evening for Koru Care at the Wigram Air Force Museum.

9. Blair Paterson (CoLab Architecture) Shane McCarthy, Rebecca Wells, Paul Sullivan.

10. Megan (TRN), Tony Gosling, Glen & Tracy Kyne.

11. Nikki, Georgie, Lauren & Sharon (Radio Network Girls).

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12. Angela Belaney, Barbara Meyer , Virginnia Scott.

13. Alison Aitken & Georgie Wills (Harcourts).

14. Michelle & Warren Barnes (Sudima Hotel) Tamara Vermeend (Brand Pacific Tours).

15. Alex Herbert, Sam McGoldrick, Alison Aitken, Dean Harrison.

17. Matthew Peacey (Vision System), Steve Evans (Leaweld), LisaPeacey, Brian & Jennifer Carpenter, Jessica McLitock.

16. Tania Leighs, Glenn Wisker, Mark Leighs (Pottery world) Andrew & Shelley Britt.

18. Lianne Dalziel, Rob Davidson.

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19. Andrew Gunn, Mike Canton, Ingrid Taylor, Kathryn Dalziel.

Moulin Rouge night at the Hornby Workingmens Club, saw National and International artist put on a night of glamour and fun.

20. Mim Conyers, Venus Starr (Entertainers) 21. Sara Scott, Harriet Woolford.

22. Julie Blenkikon, Heidi Nicholson, Shae Blenkiron 23 Belinda Caham, Alexandra Davids.

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24. La Frenchman (Outwits).

25. Philip Ellis, Joan McKinley, Terry West.

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WANT TO BE SEEN? If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Lynne at lynne.p@academy.net.nz

Phone: 027 279 7974 www.canterburytoday.co.nz July/August 2012 | 125

View these photos and more online at www.canterburytoday.co.nz

been seen

Images taken and supplied by Lynne Puddy-Greenwood, Events Editor.

If you have an event that you’d like covered, email Lynne at lynne.p@academy.net.nz Karen Scott’s book launch “Rising from the Rubble,” at Anna Strettons in The Colombo was well attended.

Todd Blackadder told the attendee at book launch how her book inspired him .

26. Bob Parker, Karen Scott (Kick start), Jo Nicholls-parker 27. Todd Blackadder and Karen (Author).

28. Helen & David Rowland (CCC).

29 Brent Hodder, Paula Raine (Ray White).

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30. Judy Murray, Katrina Wealleans (Kirk Roberts) Raylene McMeekan (ProDirections) 31. Saretta Rout (Redcurrant), Chloe Hebden, Anna Turnbell (Phoenx Cosmetics).

32. Jan Marie & Gil Jenkins (Metalcraft), Angela Bellaney.

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33. Karen & Jules.

PM John Keys was in Christchurch to open Kirk Roberts Consulting new building in Madras St. 34. Andrew Bayliss, Damien McMillan (Kirk Roberts) 35. Steven Roberts, Jade Kirk, Damian McMillan.

36. Anton Tritt (the Buchan Group), Anthony Leighs (Leighs Construction), Mike Knowles.

37. Kathryn, Katrina, Agata, Marga, Meng, Kim, Erin.

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38. Mike Ansett, Glenn Livingstone, Jaana Ansett.

39. Blair Paterson, Tobin Smith (Colab Architecture).

40. David Clarkson, Michael Idiens.

41. Shaun Dean, Hoare O’Donnell.

Tactix hosted corporate sponsors and clients, at the Westpac Hub before they enjoyed a meal courtside in the CBS Arena.

42. Fiona & David Cox, Michelle Barrow (Bartercard), Sonia Caird (Park Ave Fashion), 43. Anne & Amy Stokes (Northside Country) 42

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44. Grace Mitchell,Nick Henare.

45. Rikki Swannell, Anne Stanley (Sky TV).

46. Kiley Hikawai, Finau Pula, Sophia Fenwick (Easiyo Tactixs)

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Denyse Saunders held the launch of her new best sellling book “Beautiful You” at the Westpac Hub with over 100 guests.

47. Trish Hill, Lyndi Philpott, Helen Rowland.

48. Suzanne Watts, Denyse Saunders.

49. Virginnia Scott, Carolyn Almond.

50. Faye Dunn, Sue White (The Breeze), Phyl Paul.

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51. Charmaine McFarlane, Pauline & Juline Grassam.

52. Heather, Bev, Eleanor, Anne, Glenys, Anne, Agnes (The Zonta Ladies).

53. Louise Robertson,Sandy Drake.

54. Deb & Alexandra Davids.

126 | July/August 2012 www.canterburytoday.co.nz

The perfect venue

Make your day perfect

Open for Lunch and Dinner, Everyday - Award winning chef Make your wedding day extra special at Sharvin Lodge with the use of their wonderful grounds, amazing food and attention to detail.

Also the perfect venue for parties, functions and all other events. Hand-made gourmet pizza, salmon fishing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you hook we cook.

Child friendly and family fun day Sundays. Ideal place to spend the afternoon outside on the lawn, or the evening inside with the log fire.

Fully licensed, well stocked bar.

651 Pound Rd, Yaldhurst, Christchurch Phone: (03) 342 6060 www.sharvinlodge.co.nz