Business Advocate November 2017

Page 1

ADVOCATE NOVEMBER 2017


2

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

CONTENTS Page 02 - 03

Winners & images from the 2017 Westpac Northland Business Awards

Page 04 - 05

New Businesses in Northland

Page 06

Northland can grow into its economic summer

Page 07

Donovan Group NZ, Northland firm building technology for building future

Page 08

Wynn Fraser Paints welcomes new owner

Page 09

The Northern Advocate, Hall of Fame Winners

Page 10

Thankyou Sponsors from the New Zealand Chambers of Commerce Northland

Page 11

Celebrating 15 years of involvement with The Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards

Page 14 -15

The Judging Process

Page 16

Northland Rescue Helicopter’s forward-thinking lands them in top spot

Page 17

Level – Proud winners of the Business Coaching New Zealand Best Emerging Business Award

Page 18

Three Hairdressing wins at Westpac Northland Business Awards

Page 19

From a humble workshop to Ten4’s large-scale success

Page 20

Nau Mai Haere Mai Welcome to New Zealand’s most important historic site

Page 21

Dive Tutukaka It always was, and it always will be, about our people

Page 22

Taking a trip to artistic success with Memory Lane

Page 23

Ohaeawai Community Preschool and Early Learning Centre Recognition for being that little bit special and standing out from the rest

All Westpac Northland Business Excellence Award images taken by DAWN DUTTON PHOTOGRAPHY

“GLUTEN FREE BY THE TEE”

■ Northland Emergency Services Trust was the Supreme 2017 Westpac Northland Business of the Year Rod Parkinson (Sponsor), Tony Morris, Tim Davidson, Vanessa Furze, Paul Ahlers, Murray Broadbelt, Steve Couchman, Peter Davies

■ Level - winner of the Business Coaching New Zealand Best Emerging Business Award. Terry Sage (Sponsor), Chris Anderson, Katy Mandeno, Eddy Besselink & Rangimarie Kelly

Waipu Golf Clubhouse Wa SH1 - Half way between Waipu & Ruakaka SH 7 da days 8.30am – 4.00pm Sherwood Park Golf Clubhouse Sh Sher Millington Rd, Maunu Mi Mill 5 da days Tues – Sat 10.00am-4.00pm Te Team Building Venues Functions-buffet, À la carte, off site catering Fu Func Fo Food freshly available, Made in our Kitchen Tasty Gluten free options Ta Tast Altura Al Altu tu Coffee / Smoothies

Brett & Lorraine Taylor | Ph: 0274 204 300 www.teecafe.co.nz, food@teecafe.co.nz


BUSINESS ADVOCATE

3

■ Sarahlee Studio - winner of the Ricoh Northland Excellence in Micro Business (1-3FTE) Category. Sarahlee Cobb & Cameron Thompson (Sponsor)

■ Ten4 Transport Engineering - winner of the Vodafone Excellence in Business Large Business Award (25 plus FTE). Howard Gilles (Sponsor), Paul Christie & Vicki Christie

■ ABOVE: Northland Emergency Services Trust and Dive! Tutukaka – were joint winners of the ACC Workplace Safety Award. Russell Macey (Sponsor), Jeroen Jongejans, Kate Malcolm, Steve Couchman & Paul Ahlers

■ ABOVE: Mint Floral was the winner of the More FM Customer Choice Retail Provider Erena Miller (Sponsor), Bryce Williams, Ellen Leaming, Ashlee Smith & Jasmine Fuller

■ Three Hairdressing - winner of the Henderson Reeves Excellence in Business Small Business Awards Thomas Biss (Sponsor), Katie Hood, Hazel Newman & Jemal Guitry

■ Northland Emergency Services Trust - winner of the Top Energy Best Not-For-Profit Organisation Award. Paul White (Sponsor), Peter Davies, Tim Davidson, Vanessa Furze, Paul Ahlers, Tony Morris & Steve Couchman

■ Waitangi Treaty Grounds - winner of the Northland Regional Council Sustainable Business Award. Chairman Bill Shepherd (Sponsor), Mori Rapana, Caitlin Timmer-Arends, Brooke Williams & Greg McManus

■ The Northern Advocate Business Hall of Fame inductee this year was the Prosper Northland Trust and The Hundertwasser Project Team Andrew Garratt, Christine King, Barry Trass, Jenny Hill , Ian Reeves, Greg Guy, Nick Keene and Craig Cooper (Sponsor)

■ Ohaeawai Community Education Trust - winner of the People Potential Judges Choice Award. Andrea Ross (Sponsor), Sianella & Jagger Nield, Liz Owen, Marilyn Thomas, Zara Young, Mary-Jane Davies, Jenna Trass & Kate Liddington

■ Uber Group Ltd was voted winner of the More FM Customer Choice Service Provider Award Erena Miller (Sponsor), Steven Cochrane, Bryce Gravatt, David Tocker & Sean Brown

■ Dataphyll Ltd took out the Northland Inc Innovation Award. BACK: Warren Moyes, Jeroen Jongejans, Irene Durham (Sponsors), Dermott Malley, Karleen Everitt & David Wilson (Sponsors), Reuben Wallis,FRONT: Christoph Kistler, Patrick Malley & Kerrin Roberts

■ Memory Lane - winner of the Creative Northland Excellence in Creative Industries Award. Dr Benjamin Pittman (Sponsor), Victor Tukuafu,Devon Tucker, Donnella Phillips & Earnest Bradley

■ LEFT: Northland Emergency Services Trust - winner of the GBC Winstone Excellence in Business Medium Business Award (10-24FTE). Peter Bray (Sponsor), Tony Morris, Vanessa Furze & Paul Ahlers

Business Suits for the Discerning Man Call into Whangarei Menswear for quality, stylish business and evening suits. Experienced staff will assist you choose the very best fit for you. Choose between a great range of Boston and Cambridge suits, shirts from Geoffrey Beene, Cambridge and Gloweave.


4

NEW BUSINESS

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

A GREAT SUCCESS STORY

COCAVO

L

ocated in Whangarei, Cocavo is a privately owned company dedicated to supplying the healthiest coconut oil in the world. Cocavo has experts and industry leaders in the food oil market as advisors and on its management team, and has developed a world first extra virgin coconut oil and extra virgin avocado oil blend that allows Cocavo to be sold as one of the healthiest coconut oil blends on the market today.

Apart from being lower in saturated fat than regular coconut oil, it has all the health benefits of avocado oil plus all the cooking qualities of both oils. After an impressive launch, Cocavo were recently acknowledged as finalists in this year’s New Zealand Food Awards, for their achievement within the food safety and product categories. Cocavo started exporting to the US in March and as of this week has 950 supermarkets stocking the oil with over 600 ready to stock it after Christmas. This has got to be one of New Zealand’s greatest Success Stories! Cocavo have launched five variants: Original; Light; Chili & Lime; Coriander Lime & Ginger and Turmeric & Lemon Zest Cocavo is made from premium all natural ingredients, providing a sweet and delicious, yet delicate flavour. It is the perfect cooking oil to enhance a wide variety of dishes from curries to stir-fries, and is suitable for vegans, vegetarians and non-vegetarians. At Cocavo we are very passionate about the products we produce. Our mission is simple – to bring you Cocavo’s range of healthy cooking oils blended from health-packed extra virgin coconut and avocado oils. All our products are 100% natural and derived from renewable sources and we go to great lengths to ensure that the highest quality is maintained throughout our production chain.

Tandoori Chicken Curry Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 40 mins A delicious chicken curry using Cocavo Coriander, Lime & Ginger and Mel’s Tandoori Chicken Paste Course: Main Course Cuisine: Indian Ingredients 500 gms Chicken Thigh meat Boned 1 tbsp Cocavo Coriander, Lime & Ginger 1 each Brown Onion Diced 1 tsp Grated Ginger 1 tsp Chopped Garlic Salt & Pepper to taste 1 pkt Mel’s Gourmet Tandoori Marinade 200 ml Coconut Cream Instructions Dice the chicken thighs into large cubes, add 1 packet of Mel’s Tandoori Chicken Marinade, mix well, cover & refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Heat the Cocavo Oil in a frying pan or wok, add the chopped onion and saute until the onion is just cooked. Add the ginger & garlic to the cooked onions and continue to saute for 2 minutes. Add the marinated chicken thigh meat to the onion, garlic & ginger and cook until the chicken starts to brown. Keep the meat moving to avoid the marinade from burning. Once the chicken is browned, add the coconut cream, stir through the chicken, cover and simmer on a low heat until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with steamed white or brown rice and garnish with fresh coriander. To spice up your rice, we recommend stirring about 1 teaspoon of Cocavo Chilli & Lime through the hot cooked rice. Recipe Notes Mel’s Tandoori Chicken Marinade is available online from Mel’s Gourmet Indian at Home website - www.mels.co.nz

Cocavo is available at most good food stores for shop online www.cocavo.co.nz

NEW WHANGAREI EATERY SERVES NORTHLAND ON A PLATE

LOCKWOOD BUILDING HOMES, NOT JUST HOUSES

W

e have been building with earth , straw and wood in the Whangarei area for the last 12 years. We believe in building homes, not just houses. Solid structures that will last more than one lifetime. We like renewable resources, and homes that breathe and are healthy to live in. We feel a home needs to be future proof, and suit a family at different stages of life. We love being a part of our clients passion for their new home project. In line with our values we are now proud to represent Lockwood in the mid Northern Region So why Lockwood you ask? Lockwood homes are durable, strong, ventilated, warm and dry – so they create healthy living environments for you and your family. Safe in an earth quake. Lockwood homes are built from radiata pine which is a sustainably sourced solid wood and is a natural, renewable, biodegradable product CodeMark certification provides Lockwood with a smoother building consenting process and a certainty of compliance with the NZ Building Code. We loved the overwhelming positive response we had at the Home Show . Many of you told us of how

O

you love living in a Lockwood home. You enjoyed stays with family or holidays at the beach in a warm and cozy Lockwood. There are many Lockwood options , from our Readyplans to Classic Plans and architectural designs . Something for every one. Visit www.lockwood.co.nz and have a look at our home plans and make one your own. So if you want a new Lockwood , or some TLC for your mature Lockwood, contact us for a free site visit and consultation. John &Ilse Schreurs Lockwood Whangarei schreursfamily@xtra.co.nz

ne of Whangarei’s most iconic restaurant locations has been undergoing a revitalisation, and it’s a celebration of Northland food which is behind the makeover. Well-known restaurant A’Deco, which closed its doors late last year after 15 years in business, is now the home to brand new Local Eatery & Deli, ‘Down the Road’. Current lease holders and Down the Road business owners, Justine and Joseph Stuart feel privileged to breathe new life into the historic building and become its new caretakers. “It’s been many months of planning and hard graft but we’re excited to be opening the doors and taking a dedicated local approach to what will be on offer” says Justine. The Eatery doors will open to the public for the first time on Saturday 4th of November, and people can expect a casual dining experience with a local all-day menu. Justine explains, “The Eatery will be first to open and the Deli will follow soon. There’ll be different dining spaces across the two levels to choose from. Our menu will be printed each day to reflect our seasonal dishes where Northland food and local flavours are the full-time hero”. “We welcome people to pop in for a quick coffee and a snack, or to take time and enjoy a more leisurely meal and drinks. The menu is made up of lots of small plates and sharing-style platters so it’s very flexible.” Complementing the local food is a 100% Northland sourced wine list, Northland craft beer and local coffee, tea and juices. Work is still in progress on the Down the Road Deli, which will be located in the front of the existing garage next to the main building. But Justine and Joseph are confident it will be open and offering ready-to-eat meals, local takeaway coffee and gourmet artisan products well before the end of the year. “We felt we couldn’t truly celebrate the food of Northland without also providing a deli that stocks many of the artisan products from here. A lot of which can only be found at farmers and growers markets around the region, so we’re very excited to get the Deli open too”. Down the Road Local Eatery will be open 7 days a week from 11am to 6pm Monday to Thursday and from 11am to late on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Down the Road Local Eatery & Deli 70 Kamo Road, Kensington, Whangarei www.downtheroad.nz


NEW BUSINESS

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

SOLE VENTURES IS NORTHLAND’S NEW KID ON THE TOURISM BLOCK

B

rothers born and raised in Northland, we started Sole Ventures so we could share our passion for New Zealand’s natural environment with the world. While we may be a fresh face in the industry, with our experience and energy we focus on creating memorable, meaningful experiences for Kiwis and visitors alike that always leave our clients wanting more. We operate a range of set itinerary tours designed for active international visitors, but we also specialise in creating and providing all-inclusive customised tours for local groups and families so they can get out and explore the breath-taking New Zealand environment. We can make just about anything happen, getting a group together to hike the Tongariro Crossing is a popular trip, Mount Taranaki is another, one of NZ’s great walks, we’re up for anything! Even if we haven’t done it before we’re always keen to create new experiences. We also offer luxury coach charters in Northland and further afield, our coach is a brand-new Mercedes-Benz with a total of 20 seats, big enough to accommodate most groups. Be it winery tours, weddings, conferences, work functions or something else, if you want to travel in comfort and style, keep us in mind. If nothing else, we encourage you to get out and explore New Zealand a little further. It doesn’t matter

if you do it through us, someone else, or under your own steam, but get out there and enjoy this incredible place we call home because while we may just be a little speck on the bottom of the globe, we have one of the most incredible environments known to man. Find us online, get in touch, and let us guide you on your next adventure! Sam & Cole Johnston 0508 Ventures info@soleventures.co.nz www.soleventures.co.nz

5

TEE CAFE CREATING A GREAT DINING EXPERIENCE AT TWO LOCATIONS

T

ee Cafe has opened a second café at Sherwood Park Golf club situated just 7km outside of Whangarei heading west past the hospital on Millington Road, Maunu. Visitors are welcome to come and dine at the café and enjoy the picturesque backdrop of the golf course which sits in a park-like setting with native trees, stonewalls and grasslands below the volcanic cone of Maunu Mountain. At Tee Café our ambition is to create a great dining experience where you can eat in or takeaway. The varied menu, all freshly made by our team, and a specialty is Brunch with all the trimmings. We also cater for Coeliac, Vegetarians and other health choices. Tee Café also has a café at the Waipu Golf course where you sit on the deck and enjoy views of the harbour across the course. Your hosts are Brett and Lorraine Taylor. Brett, a Sous Chef has a passion for creating an enjoyable dining experience for each diner. Starting as an apprentice in Auckland in 1979, he went to see the world starting with Australia, England, France, Europe, America, India, Asian, Thailand and a few more places in between, learning a lot about different cuisines, tastes, spices and foods in his travels. Brett’s partner, Lorraine, comes from a very different background, marketing and administration and she is a wonderful organiser and will who ensure that your

function is an outstanding success. Tee Café also does catering for groups and businesses on their premises. A variety of menu packages are available at Sherwood, Waipu or any location of your choice. They have a value pack that you will love and they will work with individuals to create the perfect menu for any event…. Business, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings or Funerals. Team building for businesses with Golf and Dining packages are other options. Tee Café will look after your employees and assist the team bonding experience that will bring your employees together. Book a Christmas lunch or evening meal, Tee Café is also a great location for a Barbecue, something more elegant, or call in for coffee and cake, gluten free food is a speciality. Coming soon at Sherwood Park is the Toro Interprovincial women’s golf tournament that will run from the 4th to the 8th December. Book this on your calendar, come in, relax and enjoy the view, a bit of golf, and a fresh chef-cooked meal or coffee and sweet treat.

IT’S YOUR HOME LET’S DO IT YOUR WAY.

C

reating your dream home can be an amazing experience. Renovation New Zealand works with you to take your home renovation dream and turn it into reality using their easy three step process. You could enhance your lifestyle and ultimately change your life by modernising your living space or creating an extra bedroom. Northlanders Mel Turdeich and Graham Franks launched Renovation New Zealand at the recent Home and Leisure Show in Whangarei and were blown away by the support and interest in their start up. “We were hoping to generate 3 jobs from the show to get things underway and we are now juggling a pipeline of over $1 million dollars” says Director Graham. “It was a phenomenal response, the best start to the business we could have hoped for and we are looking forward to being back there again next year” “It doesn’t matter what your budget is because there is always more than one way to deliver the look and feel you’re going for” adds Mel. “We met numerous people during the show who had amazing ideas for their homes but didn’t really know where to start. That’s where we come in” They call it Dream, Design, Deliver. Together they will visit your home to discover your dream. From there, they create the design and then deliver your renovation by arranging all of the carpenters and trades services. They are supported by numerous local subcontractors so that no detail is left to chance. Mel and Graham have big plans for Renovation New Zealand. The duo complement each other with a unique balance of customer care and industry training and experience. They want to take their brand national but remain fiercely loyal to staying based in Northland. “Big companies have big opportunities in the big cities –we want to create big opportunities right here in our backyard” says Mel –“we love it here!” Renovation New Zealand www.renovation-nz.co.nz Phone: 021 442 677


6

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

NORTHLAND CAN GROW INTO ITS ECONOMIC SUMMER For Northland business owners, it feels that the region has long been in the winter of its maturity – prosperity has always felt seasons away. But a political restructure in Wellington could result in the region’s economic summer finally arriving, Christine Allen writes

W

ith a political reshuffle at the Beehive in favour of Northland, hopes are fresh for more than just talking heads. The generous number of voices at the Labour-led table is already sending the right sounds homes to Northland – growth will come. Business leaders in the region are claiming the Beehive restructure, backed by existing infrastructure upgrades and initiatives, and a persistent business-as-usual confidence by the region’s business owners, will finally see Northland basking in the warmth of a regional economic summer. Northland now has New Zealand First leader Winston Peters and Shane Jones MP, along with Deputy Labour Party Leader, Kelvin Davis and list MP Willow Jean Prime. Northland has another ally with Moerewa’s Peeni Henare, who is Labour’s Tamaki Makaurau MP, while another seven MPs across NZ claim whakapapa to Northland. The Act Party’s David Seymour also grew up in Whangarei. Meanwhile Whangarei’s National electorate MP Shane Reti and Northland electorate MP Matt King will nip at the heels of power from the opposition side. NZ First has been pushing for regional development. The government – through Jones, the Minister for Regional Economic Development - has already promised a $500 million-plus upgrade of rail to Auckland, a $150 million-plus rail spur to Marsden Pt, and the possibility of moving Ports of Auckland work to Northport.

The coalition agreement with Labour includes a $1 billion a year fund for regional development projects - including a Billion Trees Planting Programme to plant 1 million trees a year. The provincial development fund also includes a feasibility study on the options for moving the Ports of Auckland, with the option of moving some or all of Auckland’s port freight to Northport to be explored. Meanwhile, a developer has bought Marsden City and it is set up to cope with any port and Marsden/One Tree Point commercial expansion. GOOD PACE David Wilson, CEO of Northland Inc regional economic development agency, says Northland had already made good pace over the last four years and was now starting to see the fruit of that work. “Four years ago, we didn’t have much happening. We didn’t have the basic infrastructure to support development.” Now, he says, Northland has digital, transport and tourism infrastructure all beginning to result in industry growth. “There is a boat in the water right now that is laying the Hawaiki Cable and it will land at Bream Head, here in Northland, on December 24. “On the back of this, we have techie companies showing confidence in the region. “Four years ago, there was no funding for the cable, and many projects in the region were not yet over the line. “Now we have a fantastic action plan full of projects on the go to benefit the region.”

“We also have great progress made on UFB2 and UFB2+ plans, with continued work on mobile blackspots.” Wilson says that transport infrastructure would also catapult the region into better success. From the four-laning and Auckland to Whangarei road networks, to port and rail discussions, and water management and irrigation projects – there was still a lot of work to do. Tony Collins, CEO of Northland Chamber of Commerce says that while the right sounds were being made, there was some uncertainty about what would happen post-election. Business owners across the region will be focusing on the day-to-day running of their businesses, he says. “This region has had its issues – it still does – it needs better infrastructure – transport and digital networks” Although the government was sending a clear and positive message home around the issue of regional development, he says, business owners were watching, and waiting, to see how many of these economic growth promises will come to fruition. “We will just have to wait to see how it all plays out.”


BUSINESS ADVOCATE

7

NORTHLAND FIRM

BUILDING TECHNOLOGY FOR BUILDING FUTURE

H

■ Brett Donovan of the Donovan Group ow amazing would it be if you could create a plan for your dream home online, controlling not only the design of your home, but the cost of it?

‘Innovation in construction technology’ isn’t just a great tagline – it’s a fact for the Donovan Group NZ, which is set to roll out a new type of building innovation that puts the homeowner in the driving seat and allows them to design their home and control the costs. Donovan Group NZ operates the key consumer brands Coresteel Buildings, KiwispanNZ and now, Bloom – Creator Homes. Brett Donovan, Director and NZ CEO, says the company has spent the last three years developing the technology for Bloom – Creator Homes. The software and building innovation, with the residential housing franchise network, is set to roll out across NZ and Australia next year. Donovan Group, through its major brands, is a market leader when it comes to everything from custom-designed large-scale commercial steel buildings, to homes, barns, sheds and garages. This new building system incorporates a patented innovative steel skeleton structure, with a unique, patented Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) System. These elements provide an energy-efficient, affordable, eco-friendly and fireproof home which can be erected in record time.

WORLD FIRST The custom-built software system – which combines the best of software and building know-how, allows customers to design and walk through their dream home online, as well as cost it. “It’s a world first in a software and franchise network,” says Brett. “We’ve had a team of 20 working on it here in Northland, from mechanical and production engineers, to IT entrepreneurs. The goal was to create a system that could go from consumer to factory file.” Brett says customers could now have more control over the design and cost of their own home – which was vital for those facing rising building costs. The systems tick all compliance boxes too in the countries where it’s rolling out and it’s currently going through the independent Brands Appraisal process. Once it gets the official stamp of approval, Bloom – Creator Homes will roll out next year. “We’ve created employment in Whangarei through this, through research and development – products and software and we have 70 staff on site in Northland, while increasing our number of graduate engineers,” he says. Jeremy Parkinson, former CEO of the Northland Rugby Union joined the

RUBICON

Donovan team in 2016, becoming General Manager of Bloom – Creator Homes. “We have an amazing team of staff and franchise networks, who believe in the journey,” Brett says. LOCAL FORCE Donovan Group NZ also operates Coresteel Buildings, which specialises in custom-designed commercial and industrial steel frame buildings, with two unique structural systems, the patented Bracketless Portal System and the Tapered Box Beam. It has franchise operators in 24 regions, from Kaitaia to Invercargill. Donovan’s other franchise operation, KiwiSpanNZ, provides quality steel frame rural and residential sheds, garages, barns, shelters and small commercial/industrial buildings to the New Zealand market through a network of 22 franchise operators. Brett Donovan and brother Kyle head up the group with director Tim Williams. The business was established by Sue and Graham Donovan in 1969. The family company won the Supreme 2015 Westpac Northland Business of the Year, as well as the Eroad Excellence in Business (Large Business) Award and the Northland Inc Innovation Award. It was highly commended at the awards again this year for the Bloom-Creator Homes and uTecture software packages.

RUBICON ALCOHOL & OTHER DRUG, CO-EXISTING PROBLEMS, HEALTH SERVICE FOR YOUTH

Rubicon is an alcohol/ drug and Co-existing problem (CEP) organization that works within Intermediate and High School in the Whangarei/Kaipara and Kaitaia area. Rubicon is Rubicon is an NGO and has Charitable Trust status, as such funding for the service is provided on a contractual basis by the Ministry of Health. The target age for referrals is from 11-19 years of age. The kaupapa of the service is to provide a second chance to students who have been involved in alcohol and other drugs while in school, and together with Rubicon’s qualified AOD counselor’s work towards addressing the addiction issues but still allow the student to remain in education to achieve positive outcomes within the education system.

“WORKING

TOGETHER

WITH YOUTH IN A POSITIVE

DIRECTION”

You can contact us at WHANGAREI 13 Rust Ave, Whangarei PO Box 11063, Whangarei Ph 09 4382340 admin@rubiconyouth.org.nz www.rubiconyouth.org.nz Office hours 8.30am – 4.30pm Mon– Fri


8

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

WYNN FRASER PAINTS WELCOMES NEW OWNER

■ Allan Gray, Wynn Fraser paints with previous owner Mike Verkuylen

F

rom launches to ferries and superyachts, to Kauri tables, swimming pools, trucks, cars, houses and workshops – if it needs a fresh coat of paint, refurbishment or protective treatment, chances are it’s Wynn Frasers Paints that provides it. The Whangarei company has announced some exciting news – the business has a new face on the

team. Mike and Kathie Verkuylen, who have run Wynn Fraser Paints for 20 years, have passed the business baton to the new owner Allan Gray. Built from a team of 5 to 20, the business has always had a humble mission to help make our customers be more successful. Over 20 years, it did exactly that, while also winning heaps of business awards. The company provides paint for the automotive, decorating, industrial, woodcare and marine industries.

Far North District Council Proud to be a partner sponsor of the 2017 Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards, which encourage business excellence and innovation. The Council congratulates Far North winners and finalists of this year’s awards.

Allan says he’s aware that Mike and Kathie have left behind a wonderful legacy. “And it’s one I intend to respect and build on, as we head into the next 20 years – hopefully with similar success. The ownership has changed but it’s business as usual.” Northland’s booming construction industry is just one that Wynn Fraser Paints serves, with busy tradies getting all paints and consumables from the business. The invigorated marine industry too relies on the Whangarei team to help yachts sparkle on the high seas. The range includes a comprehensive woodcare range providing joiners, kitchen makers, ancient Kauri furniture and artefacts with the products and processes required to produce quality results. Panel and paint shops too, working hard to keep Northland cars in pristine shape, rely on the team. “We have a massive range of paints – and we find that many customers want a supply company that can cater for environmental considerations too, with many wanting to move to water-based paints. “We supply the leading brands in NZ and our experienced colour consultants colour match and make the paint for customers. The team are trade qualified and experienced to provide the best technical and specification designed to provide value and a quality result. Two team members are NACE qualified.

EXPERIENCED

Allan says he is delighted that Wynn Fraser Paints remains a family business that cares about its staff, customers and suppliers. Allan trained in horticulture before moving into hardware retail. His career brought him from Scotland to NZ in 1995, when he worked for Auckland’s Palmers Garden World and Levenes, before he headed south to lead part of retail/trade group H&J Smith. Coming back north, he took up a national role of General Manager with the Placemakers chain, gathering invaluable knowledge including distribution into the construction trades. The father-of-six also took on his MBA and is currently working on a doctorate. “I’ve had such a diverse range of experience from small companies, to market giants – from larger centres to provincial NZ.” Allan says he came to Northland looking for the perfect business opportunity, and to make the region his home. “It’s just beautiful here. I’m delighted to make Northland my home.” He says Mike Verkuylen would be staying on as a business adviser for Wynn Fraser Paints. “He will be by my side, making sure I take care of ‘his baby’, which I plan to do. I’m very pleased that he and all the team will be staying put.” Allan says his hope for the business is to continue to win awards, deliver best in class customer services and products and, continue to build and develop the Wynn Fraser Team.


BUSINESS ADVOCATE

9

HALL OF FAME WINNER

THE HUNDERTWASSER PROJECT TEAM AND THE PROSPER NORTHLAND TRUST

■ The Northern Advocate Business Hall of Fame inductee this year was the Prosper Northland Trust and The Hundertwasser Project Team Andrew Garratt, Christine King, Barry Trass, Jenny Hill , Ian Reeves, Greg Guy, Nick Keene and Craig Cooper (Sponsor)

T

he 2017 inductees are the Hundertwasser Project Team and Prosper Northland Trust – the people responsible for raising more than $20 million toward the Hundertwasser Art Centre at Whangarei’s Town Basin. In his speech at the awards evening, Northern Advocate editor Craig Cooper acknowledged that the 2017 inductees into the Northern Advocate Business Hall of Fame could be said to be an odd fit, when compared to past inductees. Historically, past inductees like Jack Guy, Dave Culham, Michael Hill and Michael Springford have been legacy inductions - business people deservedly recognised for their personal achievements and long standing contribution to business in Northland. Mr Cooper said the the 2017 induction recognises the magnitude of the Hundertwasser Project Team and Prosper Northland Trust’s efforts in

■ Hundertwasser funding news, Whangarei Town Basin.

raising $20 million and bringing the project toward fruition, after a long and controversial past. It also recognised the economic impact and benefits for Northland businesses that have been keystone drivers of the project. Mr Cooper said the 2017 induction could also cause minor controversy in that the inductees were not a business. “They have no core product and any sales turnover they do have is modest,” he told the awards evening crowd. “They do not provide a commercial or business service. “They have worked from temporary premises but they care little - they are not nine to five people.” “They have no paid staff. But they have a small army of invaluable, dedicated volunteer workers. “They have no CEO, but they have been led by individuals equal in character to any commercial or business counterpart.”

Mr Cooper said the Hundertwasser Project Team and Prosper Northland Trust had acted with passion, integrity, trust, honour and open communication. “If they had been fly-by-night cowboys, they would not be here. They are patient people, in it for the long hall.” “This year’s induction may not recognise a business, but it recognises a group of people whose passion, commitment and integrity has seen them deposit more than $20 million in the bank, toward a cultural project that will provide a permanent economic legacy for Northland. Many businesses in Northland will benefit.” Mr Cooper said the induction also recognised people who were “do-ers”. “This year, we also recognise a group of people who had the guts to get off their butts, and do something. “


10

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

THANKYOU SPONSORS

FROM THE NEW ZEALAND CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE NORTHLAND

■ Tony Collins, CEO, Chambers of Commerce Northland

S

SOLUTIONS

THROUGHOUT NORTHLAND COMMERCIAL | INDUSTRIAL | DOMESTIC Rats & Mice • Ants • Spiders • Wasps • Borer • Carpet Beetle Flies • Cockroaches • Fleas • Bed Bugs • Silver Fish • Mosquitoes

COMMERCIAL

Offices • Retail • Large Industrial Premises • Supermarkets Transport & Storage Warehouses • Hospitals • Pharmaceuticals Hotels/Motels/Lodges • Food Processing Premises Pubs, Bars & Restaurants • Schools • Retirement Villages One off treatments, annual pest control or ongoing maintenance programs.

Locally owne own owned and operated FREE PHONE: 0800 26 26 26 Mob: 021 071 8490 Email: info@northpest.co.nz Website: www.northpest.co.nz

pecial thanks to all the sponsors who contributed in various ways to making this year’s event possible. New Zealand Chambers of Commerce Northland is fortunate to have the support of many local and national businesses without whom organising an event of this scale would not be possible. The many judges involved in the process should also be applauded for giving up their time free of charge and in some cases having to travel long distances to visit entrant businesses. Through their support they are real champions of Northland business. The Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards provides an opportunity to celebrate business excellence and the role it plays in our community. Through business, countless individuals can apply their talents to achieve their own aspirations and to provide service for others. If we can celebrate and respect these people, and foster a better understanding of the contribution business makes to the wider community, then this will go a long way to inspiring more young people pursue their own aspirations. Apart from celebrating excellence, the Awards are a valuable business development exercise for every business that enters. The self-examination and reflection that the process calls on means the owner must critically focus on how their business works. Obviously there is a criterion around which these businesses are measured and a modified or simplified version of the Baldrige Criteria is used in this instance. This is a relatively common business excellence measurement tool and one that looks across a broad range of performance areas and then seeks confirmation of this through a number of indicators. While this provides a very useful measurement of a business’s performance it may not necessarily be as useful for measuring success. This needs to be rigorously applied against the vision and strategic plan of the business owner and there needs to be an acceptance from the evaluator that not all business owners have the same vision as to what success is. For this reason success cannot be measured without a business first having set clear goals and unlike many large corporate businesses, the nature of Northland businesses mean that many of these goals are going to closely aligned to the personal aspirations of the people and families who own these businesses. For many business owners, their personal goals and their business goals will need to be considered together as each will influence the other. Having asked where the business owner wants to be in their personal life at some date in the future will inform them as to what goals they need to set within their business if they are to get there. It could be argued that while it is valid to assess a business’s performance against its economic bottom-line and the systems and processes it uses, an enterprise may be successful in spite of these indicators if the owner’s goals are being achieved. It is the individual business owner who has made the investment, taken the risk and has an expectation of some reward. The personal nature of these aspirations and associated rewards means that it is not appropriate to judge whether they are right or wrong although there may be opportunity to question how practical or achievable they are. The attractive nature of the owner’s aspiration and their future desire is what energises and motivates them to take action. It gives a reference point against which they can focus, adopt innovative ideas and develop a level of resilience that is so important. Of course having set your goals, using good businesses practices as advocated within the Baldrige Criteria or other business excellence frameworks will make those goals more attainable. Although relatively high profile, the gala evening and announcing of winners is a very small part of the overall entrant experience. For most of the entrants it is the culmination of all they have learnt and practiced in their business life to date. Often they would have planned to enter for well over a year and in many cases they may have been considering entry for many years but were waiting for their business to be ready to enter. In truth, most businesses are constantly changing and developing to meet the challenges of a dynamic economy and market which demands that businesses innovate and evolve or else fail. The time critical nature of the entry process and the prescriptive framework used to evaluate the entrant business demands the business leader to rigorously examine how they do business and to consider whether their results confirm they are doing things the right way to ensure business success. Just as businesses continue to evolve and change so do the awards. We are constantly examining how we can make the process more attainable, easier to participate in and rewarding for everyone involved.


BUSINESS ADVOCATE

11

CELEBRATING

15 YEARS OF INVOLVEMENT WITH THE WESTPAC NORTHLAND BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

■ Rod Parkinson is the Regional Manager Commercial and Agribusiness for Westpac in Northland.

I

t is Saturday morning and I am sitting at home in paradise (otherwise referred to as Northland) reflecting on another inspiring Westpac Northland Business Excellence awards. Westpac first sponsored these awards in 1996 and has been involved every year since. It is an honour and a privilege to be associated with an event that celebrates business and those who drive excellence in the region. Having had a personal involvement with the awards that spans 15 years, I cannot help but reflect on what the event means to the region. Also to those who enter, make it as finalists, category winners and ultimately the supreme winner. It is energising and humbling each year to share that special moment with the winners and to see how much it means to each of them. This is not the only benefit of such an event. We so often get caught up in our busy daily lives that we forget to stop, take time to reflect and celebrate our special moments (be they significant or even the smallest of wins). The entry process provides business owners a platform on which take a step back from the day to day and have good look at many aspects of their business. They then get independent validation and feedback on this. The gala evening then lets us stop and take the time to reflect and celebrate. The event is a great way to showcase the best in the region, as well as up and coming businesses. These businesses (and those who work within

them) are a benchmark to our community. There is no better way to inspire excellence than to showcase those who are achieving it and sharing their stories. This can only be good for our region, We would like to thank all of the sponsors and the NZ Chambers of Commerce Northland, who do a superb job of driving the event. Congratulations to all of the entrants and finalists. Having judged across various categories over several years, I can attest to the hard work and value gained from the award entry and evaluation process. On behalf of the Westpac team, we would like to thank all of you. We appreciate the courage it takes to open up your business to scrutiny. Thank you, without your efforts there is no event. Congratulations also to all of the winners, in particular Northland Emergency Services Trust, who took out the honour of Supreme Westpac Northland Business of the Year. I am sure all are aware of the great work that NEST undertakes in our region, and the lives that are touched by this team every day. Congratulations also to the team at Prosper Northland Trust, who were recognised for their hard work in being the 2017 inductee into the Northern Advocate Business Hall of Fame. This team has proved tireless in their fundraising efforts and securing of the required underwrite for the Hundertwasser Art Centre, with Wairau M ori Art Gallery. This is a great and

well deserved honour, joining the illustrious company of Tom McKay, Michael Hill, Monty Knight, Dave Culham, Mike Simm, Michael Springford, Wayne Cowley, Jeroen Jongejans and Jack Guy. Thanks again and congratulations to everyone involved in the 2017 Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards. For anyone considering entering next year, I can on the back of 15 years of experience, recommend it as a worthy exercise.

!


The Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards for 2017 took place at Forum North on Friday 27th October. Businesses from throughout Northland submitted 42 unique entries across 5 business categories, 7 ancillary categories and an overall supreme winner.

Northland Emergency Services Trust and Dive! Tutukaka – were joint winners of the ACC Workplace Safety Award. Northern Benchtops, Ten4 Transport Engineering and Good Eggs Ltd were finalists.

The judges said: Strategic focus and commitment were the key factors making NEST this year’s Supreme winner. Evidenced through strong governance and highlighted by the business case for additional helicopters, stakeholders at all levels are aware and contribute to the organisation’s common goals.

Northland Emergency Services Trust was the Supreme 2017 Westpac Northland Business of the Year

and was also the winner of the Top Energy Best Not-For-Profit Organisation Award, the GBC Winstone Excellence in Business Medium Business Award and was the joint winner of the ACC Workplace Safety Award.

Russell Macey (Sponsor), Jeroen Jongejans, Kate Malcolm, Steve Couchman & Paul Ahlers

Although a team achievement the judges would like to pay special mention to Paul Ahlers and Peter Turnbull for their efforts. This was the 40th year of the Award’s existence and Tony Collins from the NZ Chambers of Commerce Northland said that it was great to celebrate not only the winners but all entrants for the passion they show to their business aspirations and their pursuit of excellence. The standard continues to get better every year and no matter what the size, structure or nature of the enterprise, they were all committed to making their business a success.

Rod Parkinson (Sponsor), Tony Morris, Tim Davidson, Vanessa Furze, Paul Ahlers, Murray Broadbelt, Steve Couchman, Peter Davies

WINNERS OF EAC CH CATEGORY WERE: Level - winner of the Business Coaching New Zealand Best Emerging Business Award. Continental Motel, Good Eggs Ltd and Strength & Soul were finalists.

Terry Sage (Sponsor), Chris Anderson, Katy Mandeno, Eddy Besselink & Rangimarie Kelly

The judges said: The judges were particularly impressed with a marketing plan and business plan that is both innovative and practical – and there are very good business systems and management practices in place. This business has grown from 0 to over 80 clients already and is generating healthy surpluses, whilst also giving time and expertise voluntarily to community projects – including significant input into the Hundertwasser Arts Centre. The team are to be congratulated for a well-engineered business model where all partner-directors have independent clients but operate with synergy to meet the end goals for both Level and also the specific goals of their client base. A business with a bright future in the region.

Sarahlee Studio - winner of the Ricoh Northland Excellence in Micro Business (1-3FTE) Category. Memory Lane and Live Wire Media were finalists.

Sarahlee Cobb & Cameron Thompson (Sponsor)

The judges said: The judges were impressed by Sarahlee’s clear understanding of where her studio is positioned in the market and her awareness of national and international trends. There was evidence of robust information management with data collected, monitored, analysed and then applied in decision making and business planning. The owner has developed her personal and professional skills with formal and informal mentoring and understands the importance of working with the wider community. This is a clear example of a business that has entered the Awards before, taken feedback on board and grown more than the previous judges could have foreseen.

Three Hairdressing - winner of the Henderson Reeves Excellence in Business Small Business Awards (4-9FTE). Finalists were Northern Benchtops and Energise Web Design Ltd. The judges said: The judges were impressed by the passion of the owners and the thought and detail that had gone into the business. The customer-centric business model was clear with policies in place to reward existing clients and encourage new clients. Business processes are well documented and well executed with the owners showing a clear understanding of the key drivers. By striving to be a leader in staff training Three Hairdressing has achieved significant industry recognition and engagement with staff. There was a clear Thomas Biss (Sponsor), Katie Hood, and noticeable desire for on-going improvement and this was reflected in the progress of the salon to date. Hazel Newman & Jemal Guitry

Northland Emergency Services Trust - winner of the GBC Winstone Excellence in Business Medium Business Award (10-24FTE). Dive! Tutukaka were also a finalist. The judges said: We all know NEST performs at a moral level but the judges were impressed by the level of business excellence performed throughout all areas of the operation. Business planning is a key strategy to their sustainability and of all major decision processes. Coupled with outstanding expertise and commitment, from Board to Engineer, produce an efficient service setting the benchmark for operators in New Zealand. Peter Bray (Sponsor), Tony Morris, Vanessa Furze & Paul Ahlers

Ten4 Transport Engineering - winner of the Vodafone Excellence in Business Large Business Award (25 plus FTE). Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Northland Scaffolding Ltd were finalists. The judges said: The judges were impressed with the organisation and simplicity Ten4 had created in such a complex industry. This little-known Northland business has been providing engineering and transport solutions for international events and throughout New Zealand. This has been achieved by Paul’s leading work ethic, being heavily process driven, and clear staff direction and support. Howard Gilles (Sponsor), Paul Christie & Vicki Christie

Northland Emergency Services Trust - winner of the Top Energy Best Not-For-Profit Organisation Award. Waitangi Treaty Grounds were also a finalist. The judges said: In an ever-demanding world for charity NEST continue to manage revenue to meet their demands. They have diversified income streams to meet operational requirements and chosen different finance options to meet capital requirements. NEST understand to be a sustainable Not for Profit, they must be a “not for loss”!

Paul White (Sponsor), Peter Davies, Tim Davidson, Vanessa Furze, Paul Ahlers, Tony Morris & Steve Couchman

The judges said of Northland Emergency Services Trust: NEST has been operating for 29 years growing significantly to meet the demands of the region. Safe transport and en-route medical attention is at the heart of operations giving peace of mind and saving lives. NESTs drive for zero harm is at the core of their integrated H&S management system, involving all staff and an active commitment from the Board of Directors. Annual external audits verify conformance to industry and client standards. adopt the MOSS Safety System in 2014, and has The ongoing training of pilots is often above industry achieved conformance with a number of regular standards taking place locally and overseas on a external H&S audits. regular basis. A key achievement for NEST was the The Company regularly feed back into their industry, building of a multi engine flight simulator based at Whangarei airport, certified by the CAA, enabling all assisting in research for improved safety and providing input into safety guidelines. They also take weather emergency scenario training without the risks. incident learnings from other industry operators and The Trust are a leading organisation in helping to feed this proactively into their own risk management. improve H&S across the aviation sector, organising and participating in national safety forums involving regular Dive! Tutukaka give a lot back to the community training workshops and liaising with stakeholders such through programs and activities with local schools as CAA and Massey University. and assisting the Department of Conservation. Well done! The judges said of Dive! Tutuakaka: This privately-owned Company has been operating for 18 years and is focussed on growing the destination in a sustainable way. A commitment to developing a strong integrated culture of safety, involving their staff and contractors, has been at the core of the organisation’s H&S journey to beyond compliance and something they are most proud of. Dive! Tutukaka has led the way in H&S for the industry, being the first tourism operator to

Ohaeawai Community Education Trust winner of the People Potential Judges Choice Award. rd. Luke Bird Entertainment was a finalist.

Andrea Ross (Sponsor), Sianella & Jagger Nield, Liz Owen, Marilyn Thomas, Zara Young, Mary-Jane Davies, Jenna Trass & Kate Liddington

Uber Group Ltd was voted winner of the More FM Customer Choice Service Provider Award and Mint Floral was the winner of the More FM Customer Choice Retail Provider. This is what one client had to say about Uber Group Ltd:

Erena Miller (Sponsor), Steven Cochrane, Bryce Gravatt, David Tocker & Sean Brown

Dataphyll Ltd took out the Northland Inc Innovation Award. Donovan Group NZ Ltd and Lynwood Avocado Nursery were highly commended. The judges said: Dataphyll: A great demand led innovation. The company have worked well with their customers to support strong early commercialisation and have a solid for innovation path planned. Their solution will disrupt Horticulture and provide significant returns for the company and the region. BACK: Warren Moyes, Jeroen Jongejans, Irene Durham (Sponsors), Dermott Malley, Karleen Everitt & David Wilson (Sponsors), Reuben Wallis, FRONT: Christoph Kistler, Patrick Malley & Kerrin Roberts

The judges said: The judges were inspired with the passion, beliefs and vision of the managers and staff to provide quality care and education for children. The centre is an amazing space and the pride and effort that has been applied to establish the play spaces and the rituals to support the children is excellent. Their sustainable business model is increasingly well defined with the use of natural resources and a deep consideration of the resultant environmental footprint. The Trust is striving to be a leader in their sector and have made impressive progress on their journey.

Erena Miller (Sponsor), Bryce Williams, Ellen Leaming, Ashlee Smith & Jasmine Fuller

Because their customer service is absolutely fantastic. Honestly, when you deal with Uber, you know you will be taken care of. Not that much goes wrong but on the odd occasion it does, all I have to do is call Uber or Facebook message and they get right on to it right away. I am always flabbergasted at the way in which they deal with me as I can be pretty internet-stupid and they just work with me and for me and solve my problems. They definitely deserve this reward.

And a Mint Floral customer had this to say:

I have used this company many times, and always from the time I place an order online or on the phone, the customer service has been exceptional. Staff are always friendly, helpful and certainly got out of their way to offering a fantastic service and product. There online website is bright, clear, and so easy to use. I am informed of when the order is delivered. I like the way how the owner delivers the flowers, rather than using a courier service. The owners Jaz and Bryce certainly step out of the square to offer exceptional service. I wish more businesses would follow in their footsteps. A credit to this company and would like to see them be nominated for this prestige award. Thank You MINT FLORAL.

The Northern Advocate Business Hall of Fame inductee this year was the Prosper Northland Trust in recognition of their contribution to Northland business.

Andrew Garratt, Christine King, Barry uy, Trass, Jenny Hill , Ian Reeves, Greg Guy, Nick Keene & Craig Cooper (Sponsor) nsor)

PHOTOS: Dawn Dutton Photography

The NZ Chambers of Commerce Northland wishes to thank Westpac, awards host and major sponsor of the Westpac Northland Business Excellence awards; along with all the media, category, partner, and event sponsors involved in the 2017 awards.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds - winner of the Northland Regional Council Sustainable Business Award. Ohaeawai Community Education Trust and Northern Benchtops were finalists. The judges said: Wow! What a jewel of Northland, and New Zealand. Waitangi Treaty Grounds are tasked with locating, displaying, and educating a large part of our history and heritage icons. The logistics and planning involved to achieve the operation as it is today and future plans to come is to be commended. Maintaining and revitalising this great resource is key to keeping Waitangi Treaty Ground vibrant and sustainable, a focus also shown throughout all levels of the organisation.

Chairman Bill Shepherd (Sponsor), Mori Rapana, Caitlin Timmer-Arends, Brooke Williams & Greg McManus

Memory Lane - winner of the Creative Northland Excellence in Creative Industries Award. Sarahlee Studio and Level were named as finalists.

Dr Benjamin Pittman (Sponsor), Victor Tukuafu,Devon Tucker, Donnella Phillips & Earnest Bradley

The judges said: Memory Lane’s level of experience and professionalism as a business is interesting, creative and unrestricted. They are crossing the lines between graffiti and individual expression. They are changing the mundane into monumental, they know how to adapt their surroundings creatively to make a living out of what they love. Lots of added value, product diversification, pushing the boundaries of art-form. Love it.

For more information and photo gallery visit www.northlandbusinessawards.co.nz

Far North District Council

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS For more information and photo gallery visit www.northlandbusinessawards.co.nz


14

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

THE JUDGING PROCESS

H

ow do you compare apples to oranges and likewise compare a group of businesses when no two businesses are the same.

JUDGING CRITERIA

The judging of the Westpac Northland Business Awards is based on the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program. Baldrige provides a framework to improve an organisation’s performance and get sustainable results. The Judges are looking for how each of the businesses perform in these categories: • Leadership • Business planning • Customer/Markets • Information, analysis and financial • Workforce • Processes These categories enable the Judges to compare organisations whether they be — large or small, service or manufacturing, education or health care, government or non-profit, operate one site or worldwide locations.

Greg Atkins

is the current convener of Judges. The roll of convener is to assemble a team of judges, set judging methodology and coordinate all to manage the judging of the business category entrants: • Emerging • Micro • Small • Medium • Large We have eight Judges split into four teams of two, with one team responsible for two categories, allocating approximately 5 to 10 entrants per team each year. Judges spend on average five to six hours on each entrant; covering the entry form of up to 7,000 words, site visits of 1-2 hours, finalist and winner commentaries and feedback report, not taking into account hours on the road to often remote locations! With this time involved, each Judge can easily consume up to two weeks of their time per year. In addition to the business category there are also award categories for ACC, Creative and Innovation. Each of these is judged by a separate panel and criteria.

BUSINESS JUDGES PROFILES: Greg Atkins

Senior Accountant BDO Northland Ltd, Chartered Accountants. Greg has recently moved to BDO accountants based in Whangarei. At the time of the Awards Greg was an Associate at Gilmore Taylor Associates, previously Manager at Gilmore Brown Ltd, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Coopers and Lybrand. Greg specialises in business valuations, employment assistance, and business strategies in addition to general accounting assistance. Greg has been Convener of Judges for the Westpac Northland Business Awards for the past four years, is a current Trustee on the Whangarei Boys’ High School Board and held previous Trustee, Board member and honorary positions.

Pauline Rose

Pauline Rose has judged the Business Excellence Awards for 14 years. She has private sector experience in strategic planning, marketing and communication management with large NZ corporates as well as project management, stakeholder management and business improvement experience in local government. She now has her own consultancy Prose

Brighten your Home or Office with an Original Piece of

Artwork .

Self-contained S elff---c co c ont nta Accommodation in Whangarei ng ga arei

Call in and browse the original artwork created by Northland artists. Punga by Toi Te Rito Maihi

Competitive C omp pe etiti e tit Rates - Great Value For F or reservations reserv please phone direct 09 4376359 763 63 359 59

CONTINENTAL CO C ON O NTI N TIIN MOTEL 67 Kamo Kam amo Road, Road Kensington, Whangarei, New Zealand Ro Email: Emai Em ail: ai l: iinf info info@continentalmotel.co.nz nfo@co o@co | Website: www.continentalmotel.co.nz alm mottel. tel. te l.co co.n co .nz .n z

14 Cross Street, Regent

Ph 438 1260

frameskamo@xtra.co.nz


BUSINESS ADVOCATE

NZ and works for broadband provider Uber Group and other clients. She has been President of the Public Relations Institute of NZ, is a member of its National Executive and a regular judge of its annual awards.

Cushla Donnelly

Cushla has experience in health and tertiary education, focusing on quality management and assurance, strategic planning and, more recently, excellence. She worked for 4 years as a Manager at Bahrain Polytechnic and during her time overseas attended USA based training as a Baldrige Foreign Examiner. Cushla currently works with two Polytechnics, helping learners completing the Bachelor of Applied Management and the Graduate Diploma Professional Practice (OHS). She also provides support, advice and training for the assessment and analysis of information to support the implementation of excellence principles and frameworks.

Ken Wilson

Ken works with Gilmore Taylor Associates, trading as GT Advantage for the provision of specialist advisory services. Ken has over 25 years hands-on Operations and General Management experience throughout New Zealand, and across a broad range of organisations including Northland Dairy, Progressive Enterprises, Fletcher Challenge Tasman, Damar Industries, Enterprise Northland, and Advantage Business (ex Director). Ken’s particular strengths include change management, team optimisation, frontline leadership, governance and strategic goal setting.

Mike Verkuylen

Director, Wynn Fraser Paints Mike started off with the Northland Catchment Commission before moving to the retail industry. Moving to Auckland he progressed to General Manager for the Liquorland and Robbie Burns retail liquor chains which grew to 120 locations through the mid 80’s and 90’s. A move back to Whangarei in 1997 saw him purchased Wynn Fraser Paints later that year. Under Mike, Wynn Frasers has moved to a purpose built facility, increased the product range and customer base and grown the talented team from 6 to 20. Wynn Fraser Paints is a three time Category winner, an ACC winner and a Northland Supreme Business of the Year in the Westpac Business Awards. In October Allan Gray purchased Wynn Fraser Paints where Mike remains as a Business Advisor for two days per month.

Bruce Larsen

15

Karen Amos

Senior Commercial Manager, Westpac Bank Karen has worked with Westpac for 7 years as Senior Commercial Manager, managing a portfolio of clients and specialising in commercial property structures. Karen has a background in corporate commodity and export finance where she worked for various companies based in Sydney”.

Greg Currie

Greg started Coastline Road Markers and built it up to become a nationwide business. The business formed a joint venture with Fulton Hogan a number of years ago, and both businesses grew together. Greg sold off his interest in Coastline Road Markers a couple of years ago and is now retired and managing several investments. His passion is now traveling and going bush from time to time.

Director and General Manager, Northpine Ltd. Bruce was originally trained as a Forester graduating with a Bachelor of Forestry Science (Hons) degree and then a few years later completed a post graduate M.B.A. He has 35 years of practical forest industry experience specialising in forest harvesting and sales before moving into sawmilling. He previously worked for Carter Holt Harvey Forests holding various managerial positions. As General Manager of Northpine specific responsibilities include marketing, the purchase of logs and the financial management of the company.

!5B/32)E2E6 $%(2EH(( 2E ?)-#54BE7 P 8. ;>8 ;>'8 F 8. ;>1 &;98 E mail@hendersonreeves.co.nz .& $BEA ,#< FI $)+ ==< "5BE6B-H2 8=;8< ?H@ GHB4BE7

)))($*!&*,'%!,**+*'("%(!# :HE7H-()E CHHDH( !)EEH44 C2(5@)-#5 0B@*H-( 02/2#H7


16

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

NORTHLAND RESCUE HELICOPTER’S

FORWARD-THINKING LANDS THEM IN TOP SPOT

T

he Northland Rescue Helicopter won the Supreme Award at this year’s Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards for its bold future-thinking approach to saving lives. The service, which is operated by the Northland Emergency Services Trust, also took home the Not-For-Profit Organisation Award, Excellence in Business Award for a medium business, and the ACC Workplace Safety Award. In selecting The Northland Rescue Helicopter for the top award, the judges recognised its extra effort and consistent focus on ensuring its future operational capacity and its diverse fundraising approach. A significant part of its success has come recently after gaining Civil Aviation Authority approval to undertake maintenance of its helicopters in-house which has resulted in a 20% saving on its annual $1.6million maintenance bill. Doing maintenance at its Whangarei base has also created new jobs in the region and meant less down time for its three helicopters. NEST Chairperson Paul Ahlers says it is thrilled to be recognised at the Business Awards for the work it does in the community. “Our first priority is to provide a safe and reliable service that saves lives and gives peace of mind to all Northland residents and visitors to the region.

NORTHLAND RESCUE HELICOPTER 2017 APPEAL

Lifting the spirits of each other -

Awhi atu awhi mai

*'$!,0 %")$&" 1"0!$.-("+ #-./).+)

“But because we’re a charitable trust, we have to be both accountable and creative in how we manage everything from our day-to-day operations and purchasing of new equipment, through to our fundraising efforts and promotional activity. “Our success is a tribute to the hard work of all our staff, pilots, engineers, medics, our many generous sponsors, and the unwavering support from the local Northland community.” As well as having a number of generous sponsors, and working to build future sponsorship opportunities, it supports organisational overheads with a wide range of fundraising activity. This includes everything from its Annual Fundraising Appeal (which is on now) through to publishing children’s adventure books and transforming its flight simulator into a commercial entity. The rescue helicopter service has been operating in Northland since 1988 and has seen year on year increases in demand for its service in the region. The choppers have carried more than 19,000 patients to date – and in 2016 alone transported over 900 people. As the rescue service aims to purchase a new aircraft to update its aging fleet the recently approved NZ$9.8 million loan from Northland Regional Council will help fast track this process.

“We believe the focussed and hard-working approach we take to running the Northland Rescue Helicopter has a huge bearing on the support and generosity the council and local community has shown us with the offer of this loan,” says Mr Ahlers.

DOUBLE YOUR GIFT

DONATIONS MATCHED (1#+#." /234/30/ &#"" !.-+$ 2),"#+ *34.-#34/ )2 -3 . !.%#!)! 3'

$150,000

MAKING A DONATION Nest.org.nz - Givealittle - Facebook

Donate at any branch of the ASB and look out for our ,%#*'( &!!-'( +$)-("!- coming soon to your letterbox. /northland.rescuehelicopter


BUSINESS ADVOCATE

LEVEL – PROUD WINNERS OF THE BUSINESS COACHING NEW ZEALAND BEST EMERGING BUSINESS AWARD

■ From left: Eddy Besselink, Rangimarie Kelly, Katy Mandeno and Chris Anderson

I

n 2015, Level set out to create a marketing, strategy and design friends and family.” company in Northland that would help clients achieve genuine The driving force behind Level is to put the strategy back into business success through outstanding marketing. marketing, focusing on what will make each client’s marketing truly They are proud to have achieved that vision, supporting over effective. Katy says whether you need a whole new brand or are 100 businesses, in Northland and beyond, and including a simply looking to update your website, Level will work with huge cross-section of commercial businesses from small you to produce results that are not simply creative but also We owe a one-man bands to large established businesses, as well well thought out and targeted to your audience and your huge thank as Government, Iwi, not-for-profit, listed NZX companies business goals. you to all and more. “We work in an industry that is changing rapidly and our fantastic For the four partners at Level, Rangimarie Kelly, Chris this means genuine expertise is becoming more and clients Anderson, Eddy Besselink and Katy Mandeno, starting more valuable, so lucky for us (and our clients), while a new business meant an opportunity to innovate and we are a new business, our team has extensive industry collaborate with others, and according to Katy, there is no experience, both in New Zealand and abroad.” better place than Northland. Katy says this is just the beginning of Level’s journey. “We owe a huge thank you to all our fantastic clients who “We’re thrilled to have received the award for Best Emerging have supported us to grow so successfully in our first two years Business in the 40th annual Westpac Northland Chamber of of business. We’ve had amazing support from the wider business Commerce Business Awards. This just the beginning for us so if community as well as the likes of Northland Inc, Northland Chamber you’re looking to grow your business, we’d love to hear from you!” of Commerce, our business mentors and of course our wonderful

WINNER

Best Emergin g Business

Strategy Marketing Design Our strategy-based approach to marketing and branding makes a #%2+!2% &!4%/%2'% ,1 1+/ ';!%2,.( 5+.!2%.. #/1:,"7 -9 600;9!2# '/%6,!*% ,"!2=!2# 62& !221*6,!*% .,/6,%#!%. :% %2.+/% 6;; 36/=%,!2# 6',!*!,9 6;!#2. &!/%',;9 :!," 91+/ 1*%/6;; 5+.!2%.. #16;. $1/ #/%6,%/ .+''%..7 )% 14%/ 6 $+;; /62#% 1$ 36/=%,!2# expertise within one team, under one /11$8 62& '62 "%;0 :!," %*%/9,"!2# $/13 36/=%,!2# .,/6,%#!%.8 5/62&!2# 62& :%5.!,%. ,1 &!#!,6; 36/=%,!2# '6306!#2.8 0/!2,%& '1;;6,%/6; 62& .!#26#%7 <$ 91+(/% ;11=!2# ,1 #/1: 91+/ business, get in touch today.

e: info@thisislevel.nz t: 09 974 8084 ■ From left to right: Katy Mandeno, Chris Anderson, Juliane Chetham, Eddy Besselink, Rangimarie Kelly and Ben Wood.

www.thisislevel.nz

17


18

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

THREE HAIRDRESSING WINS AT WESTPAC NORTHLAND BUSINESS AWARDS

T

hree Hairdressing has become one of Whangarei’s most awarded hair salons – in just under 4 years, the popular Maunu salon has taken home over 80 award placings, including the Excellence in Business – Small Business Award at the 2017 Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards. For Jemal Guitry, Hazel Newman and Katie Hood, this award acts as a valuable reminder of why they began their business in the first place: to provide their clients with an industry-topping salon experience right here in Whangarei. Three Hairdressing gains its name from the three hairdressers behind the brand: Jemal, Hazel and Katie. Having previously worked together in the industry, they had known each other for a long time before embarking on their joint venture. The salon quickly gained a reputation for excellence in both customer service and technical skill, securing a solid client base which has continued to expand over the years. The salon’s formula of using

hairdressing competitions as a platform to expand on training has resulted in a hugely talented team of hairdressers who aren’t afraid to push the creative envelope. This commitment to training and education, to upskilling their staff and encouraging competition within their industry has not only shown benefits for their clients, but also to the industry as a whole. Through upskilling the hairdressers and apprentices in their team, Jemal, Katie and Hazel are helping to create highly qualified stylists for the local and national hairdressing industry. Winning at the Westpac Business awards has been a highlight for the salon owners, who see the award as recognition from outside the hairdressing industry that they are on the right path to success. Growing their business from 5 staff up to 16 full-and part-time employees, and maintaining their work/life balance takes some serious organisation skills, but luckily all three owners have very supportive

husbands. Add small children into the mix and you have one very tight-knit business family! Each owner has a definite specialty within the business: Jemal is the salon’s financial and accounts manager, Katie excels at human resources, and Hazel manages the salon’s training and PR needs. When you bring all three roles together, you have the definitive recipe for success! Three Hairdressing’s recent successes at the National NZARH 2017 Supreme Awards has given the team an added boost this year, another reason to celebrate for the tightly-knit salon culture. Their welcoming environment and vibrant salon interior is reflected in the clients who walk through their doors; it’s an atmosphere of friendly conversation, flowing creativity and confident skill. For Jemal, Katie and Hazel, Three Hairdressing has become the salon they always dreamed of – and their star is obviously still rising.

09 438 8218

74 Maunu Road, Whangarei www.threehairdressing.co.nz


BUSINESS ADVOCATE

19

FROM A HUMBLE WORKSHOP TO TEN4’S LARGE-SCALE SUCCESS

W

hen Paul Christie started his company in 1995, he was a transport engineer with nothing more than some welding equipment, a gas plant and a few tools, and a dream to create an engineering company like no other. More than a decade later, Ten4 employs a team of 27 – including 16 tradespeople an 6 apprentices. Ten4 operates Ten4 Engineering, Ten4 Manufacturing and Ten4 Design, and is the sole distributer for Bakflip ute covers for the entire South Pacific. The company has just won the Excellence in Large Business category in the Northland Westpac Business Awards. “We were thrilled to take the win – the company has shown itself to be innovative and creative, with excellent systems in place,” Paul says. “It brings us immense joy to look out across Northland and see our products keeping the region running – from transport maintenance to civil engineering.”

Transport Engineering is the backbone of Ten4 business and the division of the company has proven itself to be the go-to for fleet maintenance and welding and repair jobs. The manufacturing side focuses on custom building accessories, parts and special fittings for truck and transport companies. Ten4 Design specialises in unique, and often large-scale or complicated, projects across a broad range of industries with examples such as the stage for the 2013 Rugby World Cup presentations or transportable showrooms for expos. They also designed a Pump Station Safety Hatch which has been adopted by many local authorities and civil engineering firms across NZ. Ten4 designed and constructed Vodafone’s Big Red Rig, a high-tech mobile showroom. Paul credits the support of his staff (past and present), customers and suppliers with the company’s success and says he looks forward to their continuing support as Ten4 expands.

• Transport, General & Design Engineers • LT400 Accredited Certifiers • ASNZS2980 Certified Welders 32 Gumdigger Place, Whangarei

The company has just opened a new workshop in Rewarewa Rd in Whangarei, which complements the main headquarters at Gumdigger Place. “From everything to training, policies and procedures, to creativity and innovation…we are going from strength to strength,” he says. Paul compares the Ten4 teamwork to that of the All Blacks. “It’s simple really. We all go out onto the field together and if one player goes down, the team suffers. So, we support each other, we play a team game and we aim to be the best – together!” After serving his time as a transport engineer, Paul saw a chance in the 90s to go out on his own and do the work that he wanted to do. “I didn’t want to start a typical engineering shop. I had aspirations for a nice place – a good place to work. It’s taken years to get to where we are and we’re still growing but yeah, I’m proud of how far we’ve come,” he says.

• Cutting & Folding Services • 3D CAD Design 09 478 0850

www.ten .co.nz


20

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

NAU MAI HAERE MAI

WELCOME TO NEW ZEALAND’S MOST IMPORTANT HISTORIC SITE

A

n absolute ‘must-do’ for visitors and locals alike, the award-winning Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Te Kongahu Museum of Waitangi are unquestionably one of New Zealand’s premier attractions. Over the past five years the Treaty Grounds has seen major developments. At the heart of the transformation was the building of the $14 million award-winning Te Kongahu Museum of Waitangi, which opened on 5 February 2016. The museum ground floor is occupied by a permanent exhibition Ko Waitangi Tenei - This is Waitangi. The national importance of the Waitangi story is told here through highly significant treasures, some representing the personal and political exchanges between Maori leaders and the British Crown. The Waitangi National Trust wanted the museum to have a traditional feel but still deliver the cutting edge technology that visitors expect. Technology was carefully selected to accommodate and encourage new research on Waitangi. Located on level 2 of the Museum of Waitangi is a Learning Centre and modern exhibition space for temporary exhibition programmes. This space opens the museum up to a range of opportunities - from working with local artists, to housing nationally significant objects only available for short-term loan. Later in 2016 Waitangi Treaty Grounds reopened its Visitor Centre. The upgraded facility almost doubled in size and features a high quality gift ship and upgraded theatre. A Carving Studio was added to the Visitor Centre courtyard

dnati iscover our on’s story

where visitors can watch two experienced carvers demonstrating their skills in wood and bone carving. The latest project at the Treaty Grounds, a new exhibition in the Treaty House, opens on the 4th November 2017. Greg McManus, CEO of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds says the upgrade of the Treaty House is the next stage of an ongoing project to develop a world class visitor experience at the Treaty Grounds. “The Treaty House, or Busby House as it is sometimes known, was the site of some of the most important events in our nation’s history. The first flag for the nation was chosen there in 1834; the 1835 Declaration of Independence was drafted by Busby and presented to the northern chiefs there; and of course the Treaty of Waitangi was given its finishing touches there before being read to the chiefs on 5th February 1840. It is central to our story as a nation and deserves to be looked after and interpreted well.” The Waitangi Treaty Grounds was the winner of the NZ Museum awards Best Museum Project category in May 2016 followed by the NZ Tourism Award in the Maori Tourism category. In 2017 the Treaty Grounds got awarded Qualmark Gold and won the highly sought-after Visitor Experience category of the NZ Tourism Awards. The latest jewel in the crown is the Northland Regional Council Sustainable Business Award that was announced on Friday 27th October at the Northland Westpac Business Excellence Awards night.

· Award-winning Museum · Visitor Centre & Carving Studio · All-inclusive Day Pass · Cultural Performances · Guided Tours , +)(!- * $'(#"&% (summer only) · Whare Waka Café · Gift shop · Open daily

0800 9248 2644 www.waitangi.org.nz

WINNER

Sustainable Business Award


BUSINESS ADVOCATE

21

DIVE! TUTUKAKA

IT ALWAYS WAS, AND IT ALWAYS WILL BE, ABOUT OUR PEOPLE

A

s a company, Dive! Tutukaka won the Westpac Supreme Northland Business of the Year Award in 2009. Between then and now, the legislative and audit driven regulatory landscape in which we operate has changed dramatically. The Adventure Activities Regulations were introduced in late 2014, with all operators who provide adventure activities required to undergo an annual safety audit or surveillance audit, and become registered with MBIE. The legislative requirements of the new Maritime Operator Safety System (MOSS) under Maritime NZ which also came into force in 2014, as well as the new Health and Safety Act in 2015. In a business whose very intent is deliver defining moments, and oncein-a-lifetime memories, the challenge became how to maintain a great experience that is not so sanitized it became meaningless; both for our staff and also our customers. We had to deliver excitement, and moments

to remember, whilst being safe, accountable, looking after each other, and remaining passionate and having integrity. Who we are, why we do what we do, and what we do it for. The strategy was to do the very best we can, search for excellence, go beyond simply compliance or ticking a box, but aim for the next highest level - and all the while not losing the essence of our core company culture, and maintaining our passion. In a company that has a triple bottom line mentality in-grained, we had to search for excellence beyond compliance. That drive echoes the passion of our staff and their drive as people, to be the best they can be. Achieving the ACC Workplace Safety Award is recognition of the hard work that has gone into the last nine years, of aiming high, and not settling for less. We are grateful, honoured, and humbled, and extremely proud of this award.

Looking after our people, and ensuring that safety is not our competitive advantage, means sharing learnings, and being open and inclusive. Total staff buy-in means engaging them in every step of a systems process, from inception to delivery. It always was, and it always will be, about our people. We are still Searching for Excellence Beyond Compliance, it is that passion that will drive our selves, our people, our company, our region, and our sector forward. Whaia te iti kahurangi ki te tuohu koe me he maunga teitei Seek the treasure you value most dearly: if you bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain This whakatauki is about aiming high or for what is truly valuable, but it’s real message is to be persistent and don’t let obstacles stop you from reaching your goal.


22

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

TAKING A TRIP TO ARTISTIC SUCCESS WITH MEMORY LANE

T

he art of Memory Lane Gallery and Tattoo Studio lives and breathes in walls, and arms, across the city. From the Hatea Loop to Tikipunga High School – the beauty of our region’s people has captured the Memory Lane artists, and their art has captured our

attention. When people want to get a tattoo, they want something with meaning, something to cherish a memory of a person, or a place significant to them. The want to travel down Memory Lane each time they look at it. The modern art studio works on everything from custom tattooing to professional graffiti, exclusive merchandise and exhibition artwork. The studio recently took home the Creative Northland Excellence in Creative Industries category of the Westpac Northland Business Excellence Awards. “This award was recognition of all the hard work and late nights that our team has put in. And by team we mean our whanau, our friends and faithful supporters who’ve helped us do what we do best,” says Memory Lane

Gallery and Tattoo Studio’s Donnella Phillips. Our artists cater for a range of design styles from realism to mandala, to Maori moko and fine arts. The business was first opened at Water Street in 2013 by father and son artistic duo, Dave and Earnest Bradley. The team now also includes Devon Tucker (artist), Victor Te Paa (artist) and Donnella Phillips (co-director). Devon Tucker came straight from high school into a Memory Lane apprenticeship in 2013. Now she is pushing the boundaries and excelling in her specialty field of delicate Mandala tattooing. Victor Te Paa has a Degree in Contemporary Maori Art and has exhibited nationally and internationally. He now guides the gallery exhibitions and is two years into a Memory Lane apprenticeship to bring his artistic skills to skin, not just canvas. Earnest, known as Tawck GBAK, is renowned for his realism tattooing, and the diverse range of graffiti he has painted all over the world.

Having kick-started his artistic career in the automotive industry, Earnest - a qualified spray painter by trade – then did an apprenticeship at Immortal Tattoo Studio in Bournemouth, England. Memory Lane has created community art at Whangarei Bowls, Whangarei District Council’s Hatea Loop, Venues and Events Whangarei’s Fritter Festival, Mint Floral, Butter Factory and Tikipunga High School. The company is also an exclusive supplier of the high-quality MontanaCans spray paint. The studio launches its next exhibition Opulence in their John Street gallery on November 11. Memory Lane hopes to help make the tattooing and graffiti industries more professionally recognised as modern forms of respectable art. “And we also hope to continue contributing to creating beautiful art right here in Whangarei.” Donnella says.

FIRST YEAR ENTRANTS MAKE PERMANENT MARK IN BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Tattoos Like us on Facebook @42memorylane Follow us on Instagram @memorylane_tattoo Check out our Website www.memorylanetattoo.com

Finalists in 3 categories.. WINNER of the Creative Northland Excellence in Creative Industry Award...

Plus ... Finalists in the Ricoh Northland Excellence in Business Award & the More FM Customer Choice Award

MEMORY LANE GALLERY

10 JOHN STREET, WHANGAREI | Ph 971-8051


BUSINESS ADVOCATE

23

RECOGNITION

FOR BEING THAT LITTLE BIT SPECIAL AND STANDING OUT FROM THE REST

O

haeawai Community Preschool and Early Learning Centre have recently been awarded the Judges Choice for the 2017 Northland Westpac Business Awards! This Award was sponsored by People Potential, where we were recognised for being that little bit special, interesting, worthy of recognition and stood out from the rest. It was such an honour to receive this award. We would like to thank our children, parents and whanau for their ongoing support. Our amazing team that go above and beyond what is expected, to ensure the very best care and education is provided as they put their heart and soul into everything they do. We would like to thank Westpac, People Potential and all the other sponsors, as well as the Chambers of Commerce Northland judges for the hard work involved in the awards process. We would also like to acknowledge the other entrants and congratulate the winners. Entering the awards is an opportunity to reflect on our performance, compare ourselves with others, and grow as professionals. When you care enough and are fuelled by passion you will settle for nothing but excellence. At Ohaeawai Community Preschool children are the Heart of everything we do. We recognise that the early years are the most important part of life and therefore we strive to create the most caring and nurturing environment possible. Our practice is based on building respectful and trusting relationships and giving children time and freedom to play how they choose.

allows them to develop into confident, sociable and competent young people ready for the challenges of life. We currently have limited spaces for new enrolments so feel free to stop in, meet the team and have a look around our beautiful environment. Phone: 09 4059779 Email: ohaeawaiedtrust@gmail.com

Important attributes to us are, peace, creativity, curiosity, unconditional love, creativity, kindness, respectful practice, beauty and excellence are non-negotiable. In all that we do children are empowered to see themselves as confident and competent learners and decision makers. Our children are provided with an environment that allows them to have freedom to explore and unfold naturally, as nature intended, being in a secure environment

Ohaeawai Community Preschool & Early Learning Centre

Open Mon – Fri 7:30 - 17:30 Short and long days subject to availability. Enrolments form 6 weeks to 6 years of age 20 Hours Free ECE for children over 3 years of age if eligible.


24

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Business

Education

Congratulations to all award entrants and winners

Residential

IT FOR BUSINESSES, SCHOOLS AND RESIDENTIAL

Trusted end to end IT solutions provided on site or remotely for a vast range of services. 24h

Onsite & Remote Support Helpdesk Services On-premise or cloud hosted server solutions Backup and Disaster Recovery Solutions Smart network monitoring 24/7 Computer Sales - Desktops, Laptops & Chromebooks Computer Repairs and Servicing

We sell quality desktop computers with 2 year guarantees and also HP laptops and service all makes and models in our workshop.

UIT provide knowledgeable IT support for schools, businesses and residential premises. They can assist small startups through to large commercial entities and organisations. UIT is a company made up of qualified and experienced experts who are obsessively devoted to the pursuit of delivering reliable, quality IT services to Whangarei and Northland.

The experienced team delivers their first-rate service to all manner of businesses, organisations and residents throughout the region. Having a large team means they can work with large schools and business projects down to the smallest of residential jobs. Founded by owner and IT specialist Paul Batchelder, UIT has an award winning history, as well as a focus on having a team of highly skilled professional information technology people on their team. UIT moved their office from downtown Whangarei to Kamo several years ago and since then the move has seen the business go from strength to strength. A big influx of new customers has resulted in the employment of new staff to accommodate for this and to ensure they continue to provide top notch services. The team offers a full range of services, from basic fix solutions through to managed server and cloud products. This includes 24 hours a day, seven days a week monitoring and support. UIT can also offer sound unbiased advice and consulting on IT strategy, cloud solutions, business continuity planning, system and supplier selection, designing and embedding solutions and more. They provide solutions tailored to meet your specific needs and can assist onsite or remotely. UIT strive to be the most sought after IT firm in Northland and have big plans to continue the growth of the business and also the calibre and scope of the services they offer customers. UIT are seeking experienced technical staff. If you are interested in furthering your career send UIT an email with CV outlining experience to contact@uit.co.nz Our support services range from Workshop, Remote, Onsite, Managed.

OUR PLACE, YOUR PLACE, OUTTA SPACE!

376 Kamo Road, Kamo 09 438 8484 contact@uit.co.nz uit.co.nz

If you need expert technical support or advice, we can help. Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 8.30am-5.00pm • Saturdays by appointment


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.