From Layla to Lady Gaga
He named his daughter after a Clapton classic, built stages for music legends, and once crashed a forklift at Claudelands. From Waikato roots to global tours, Chris Beehan’s journey is anything but ordinary, writes Mary Anne Gill.
The first hint of Chris Beehan’s global connections comes when he says his daughter’s name is Layla.
As in the Eric Clapton hit song, The News asks.
“He was my hero growing up,” Beehan, 56, who plays lead guitar himself in a local band called Amnesiaxs or ‘forgetful old pricks’, as he prefers to call them.
Years ago, he helped build a stage for Clapton at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
“He was a really nice guy. I ended up getting to work with his guitar tech, so I got to touch (Clapton’s) guitars and everything.
“At the end of the show, we were packing up and he’d done a run of nights at the Albert Hall, and he came running across the stage and we talked for about 10 minutes.
“He was lovely, amazing, asked me all about my
upbringing and we started talking about the blues and all sorts of stuff. It absolutely blew me away that he had the time because if he had just said ‘get out of my way’ it would have destroyed me.”
When Beehan and his fiancée Shinobu had their first child 15 years ago, they named her Layla. Born in Hamilton to Patrick and Pamela Beehan, Chris grew up in Tamahere and Mātangi. His father, a renowned plastic surgeon, founded the Waikato Regional Plastic Surgery and Maxillofacial Unit. Chris, however, had different ambitions than medicine, unlike his siblings.
Susannah – who was the first female dux at St Paul’s Collegiate in 1990 – became a surgeon in the US and is now in Christchurch. Brigid is a quality assurance advisor and educator for the New
Zealand College of Midwives and a lead maternity carer in Auckland.
After attending St Mary’s Catholic, Marist Intermediate, Hamilton Boys’, and Hillcrest High, Beehan left school at 17. He worked at Ruapehu and Queenstown before moving
to London in 1994. There, he spent a decade touring the world, building stage sets for some of the biggest names in music.
Over his 24-year career, Beehan managed stage builds for:
• Michael Jackson’s HIStory World Tour (1996)
• Paul McCartney’s Back in the World Tour (2003)
• 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games (Opening & Closing Ceremonies)
• Madonna’s Japan Tour (2006)
• Six60’s sold-out shows at Claudelands and Eden Park (2021). He met Shinobu in Melbourne during the Commonwealth Games project. The couple got engaged on Christmas Eve 2007 and later moved to Sydney.
Today, Beehan co-owns Stageset, a stage construction company with warehouses across Australia – Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and soon Melbourne - and in Rukuhia, near Hamilton Airport. He holds 60 per cent of the company alongside fellow Kiwi Mataio Alefosio. Stageset has a focus on New Zealand and Australia
but has just picked up a stadium-sized roof project in Japan. Recent projects include Luke Combs at Eden Park, upcoming builds for Kendrick Lamar and Lady Gaga and a massive stage at King’s Park, Perth
They’re also the preferred supplier for shows at the Sydney Opera House which makes Jetstar’s Hamilton to Sydney flights – launching this month – a bonus for him given his regular trips across the Tasman.
Beehan credits much of his success to Kiwi ingenuity.
“We designed a lifting system using truck workshop lifters to raise stage roofs - no one else in the world does that,” he says. Their system avoids traditional bolts, using pins and clamps instead.
“It’s like Meccano except we don’t use bolts because as soon as you thread them
The stage for Crowded House in Napier.
Electric Avenue Festival in Christchurch.
Wildlands Festival, Australia’s biggest one day festival.
Chris Beehan inside Stageset’s Rukuhia warehouse. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
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Festival recovers, breaks records
Nearly 50,000 people attended one of the events at the iconic Hamilton Arts Festival in February and March reinforcing organisers’ decision to go ahead despite a $150,000 deficit after last year’s event.
Hamilton Gardens Summer Festival Foundation director Geoff Turkington said attendance was up 40 per cent and broke all earlier records since the arts event started in 1988.
Speaking recently at the Waikato Rotary Club, Turkington said the community rallied with overwhelming support last year when despite a successful event, there was a deficit.
The introduction of the Patron Scheme – cheekily titled Friends with Benefits – welcomed donations from individuals, families and small businesses.
It raised $32,100 and along with funders and sponsors, the shortfall was reduced and gave the foundation the confidence to continue with this year’s event.
“The festival now stands as Aotearoa’s largest regional arts celebration, reflecting its rising national profile and deepening local pride,” he said.
Hamilton residents accounted for 53 per cent of the attendance while 30 per cent were from outside Waikato.
The economic benefit to Hamilton was $14.1 million, according to figures formulated using the Live Performance Value Economic and Wellbeing Calculator at Massey University funded by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
Sixty volunteers gave 1086 hours of time during the festival which consisted of award-winning drama, dance, comedy, music and fashion.
Three quarters of the 800 artists employed were from the Waikato reinforcing the festival’s role as the largest employer – paying out $325,350 to local artistsand a vital contributor to the cultural economy.
Volunteers include dragon boat and waka ama competitors who provided back of house services to the festival in exchange for a donation to their clubs. Waikato University Hockey Club has a similar arrangement and provided security and bag-checking services.
Turkington said a key feature
was the strong emphasis on community-led events.
Examples of this was The Music is Bond with Orchestra Central partnering with Tim Beveridge Promotions and Opus Orchestra collaborating with NZ Opera to stage The Elixir of Love.
Four of the six main stage performances on the Rhododendron Lawn featured Waikato artists.
“The festival is a cultural powerhouse, delivering an unforgettable celebration of arts, community and creativity,” said Turkington.
The festival will be held in February and March next year.
“Continued and increased investment is essential to secure the long-term future of Hamilton’s most magical celebration of arts and culture.”
From Layla to Lady Gaga
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
on, they get threaded. So, we use pins, you can bang them in with a hammer. Just about all our gear is about a scaffold clamp or a pin. It’s simple, just masses of the same stuff.”
After Covid, Beehan felt the pull of home. He had long owned a piece of land at Manu Bay in Raglan, bought during his London years.
“My family always asked why I held onto it. I told them, ‘It’s beautiful, overlooking the ocean’.”
He promised to build his dream home there and if they hated it, he’d sell and
move. They moved in last month. His son Benjamin, 12, a keen surfer, especially loves it.
The process of building a stage might seem complicated but Beehan describes it as simple with the right planning.
It starts with building a stage deck, structural stuff, scaffolding, the steel, and all the fabric and waterproofing for the stage.
Though no longer on the tools - “The boys tell me to go home. I crashed the forklift into the light post at Claudelands a few years ago and they told me to just give it up.” Beehan now manages the company’s finances and culture.
“I do drive down the streets of Hamilton and think back to when I was 18 and saying to myself ‘I’m never coming back here’.”
His philosophy is simple: “If you’re all about people, the money follows.”
He’s known for giving people a chance. “If someone asks for a job, I give them a go. One day to prove themselves, then it’s up to them.”
Stageset’s 20 full-time staff in Australia are part of a profit-share scheme - and will receive a cut if the business is ever sold.
“They’re all lifers,” he says. “They’re in for the long term.”
One suspects Beehan is too.
Couture in the Gardens.
Photo: Supplied
The Download Festival in Donington Park, home of heavy metal rock in the UK.
Synthony featuring Cyril Riley, an Australian DJ and producer who has become famous in the underground electronic scene.
Briefs…
Money raised
A Bucket List banquet raised a record $623,000 for Hospice Waikato last month. The event at the Claudelands Events Centre attracted 1050 guests and it was an opportunity for new chief executive Alex Gordon to outline the importance of hospice care and thank people for their support. See: Hospice leader slams inadequate palliative care, page 13.
Together at last Waikato’s first publicly owned water company will manage 90,700 connections and invest around $3.3 billion on water infrastructure over the next decade. Waikato District and Hamilton City councils last month agreed to form a council-controlled organisation to build and manage water infrastructure.
Thank you
Hato Hone St John is calling on the public to support its Light the Way Annual Appeal this month. The charity aims to raise $4.5 million towards repairs and rebuilds of 13 ambulance stations in critical need, including the redevelopment of Cambridge and Morrinsville ambulance stations, which are no longer fit for purpose.
Culinary line up
As part of Palate’s 20-year celebrations chef and owner, Mat McLean has extended an invitation to a few of his mates for Matariki weekend. The result – a night not to be missed with three of New Zealand’s best chefs. Kai Whetu will see Jude Messenger and Jeremy Rameka join McLean to create a six-course meal.
Film festival
The Architecture and Design Film Festival will screen in Hamilton this month showcasing the latest and greatest architecture and design documentaries from around the world, and highlights stories of innovation, creativity, and the people shaping our worlds. There is a local architectural documentary that covers the design and build of Darryl Church’s South Waikato.
Architects’ work celebrated
Aleading architect says there has been a “coming of age” in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty with local practices now making their mark to a greater degree than in previous years.
Pat de Pont from SGA Strachan Group Architects in Auckland was the jury convenor for the Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects’ Local Awards spanning a range of projects.
Ten of the 26 were from the Waikato – seven from Hamilton, two in Raglan and one in Cambridge.
“It’s also been great to see a range of projects this year that address community, liveability, sustainability and affordability.”
The Te Ara Pekapeka bridge in Hamilton by Edwards White Architects and BBO in association won a Planning and Urban Design award for managing a significant infrastructure project with respectful sensitivity for cultural and
ecological imperatives.
Judges noted the resulting landmark as an impressive addition to the landscape of Kirikiriroa, weaving historical, cultural and physical connections to the Waikato River.
The Cartwright residence in Hamilton designed by Gleeson Architects in 1975 received an Enduring Architecture award while Paua Architects of Hamilton won in the Education category for the whare at Hamilton Boys’ High School.
The Whare Ako is a central space for learning, cultural activities, and community engagement. It is a multiuse space that embodies inclusivity and as a hub for te reo Māori, tikanga Māori, and ahurea Māori.
Edward White Architects of Hamilton won an award for their design of the Hamilton Gardens Visitor Precinct.
The winners received their awards at an event at SkyCity Hamilton.
Waikato winners by category:
Matamata Racing Club expands
Matamata Racing Club has announced plans to expand its training facilities with the recent acquisition of a neighbouring property.
The club will build up to 20 state-of-the-art barns designed to accommodate up to 250 more horses. These new facilities will complement the existing stabling infrastructure, which already caters to approximately 150 horses.
“This is more than just an expansion. It’s a vote of confidence in our trainers, our horses, and the future of New Zealand racing,” Matamata Racing Club general manager Regan Donnison said.
“We’re responding to real demand and positioning ourselves, and our region, as a key contributor to the national industry moving forward.”
The club’s on-course training facility is already one of the busiest in the country, servicing around 40 trainers and up to 850 horses per month.
Local horseman Andrew Scott, who trains in partnership with Lance O’Sullivan at Wexford Stables, welcomed the move.
“It’s great to see a local club taking a progressive approach,” he said.
“If all goes to plan, their proposed facilities will be a real asset to the industry, creating more opportunities for people to train on track, in line with a growing trend across Australasia.
“There’s still a way to go before it’s fully realised, but it’s a strong step in the right direction.” – Loveracing.NZ News Desk
Boys High School Whare
Commercial Architecture - Endoscopy on Clarence by APG Architects (Hamilton); Education - Hamilton Boys’ High School Whare Ako by Paua Architects (Hamilton); Housing - Riverpoint by Edwards White Architects (Hamilton), Passive Modern by Edwards White Architects (Cambridge) and Te Wharewakaroa by Mercer and Mercer Architects (Raglan); Interior Architecture - Fonterra –Southbloc fitout by Chow:Hill Architects and Designwell in association (Hamilton); Planning and Urban DesignTe Ara Pekapeka by Edwards White Architects and BBO in association (Hamilton),
Architecture - Cartwright Residence (1975) by Gleeson Architects (Hamilton).
McGoldrick crowned auctioneer king
Mark McGoldrick’s mastery was on full display as the Hamilton auctioneer took out the coveted title of Australasia’s auctioneering champion in Adelaide last month.
In one of the strongest finals yet, McGoldrick edged out the competition from Tasmania, Victoria and two from New Zealand.
And in a clean sweep, Tama Emery from Harcourts New Age Realty in Auckland won the inaugural novice championship.
The awards – hosted by the Real Estate Institute of South Australia and first held in 1993 - serve as a platform for celebrating technical excellence, industry leadership, and the enduring craft of auctioneering across Australia and New Zealand.
Organisers the Real Estate Institute of Australia and the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) both praised the standard.
REINZ acting chief executive Rowan Dixon said McGoldrick and Emery were a shining example of auctioneering excellence.
“You set the bar sky high and have done the real estate profession proud,” said Dixon.
The win was a long time coming for McGoldrick who said in his acceptance speech: “It’s been 10 long years trying to knock these buggers off.”
McGoldrick, already a multi-awardwinning auctioneer delivered a masterclass in control, clarity, and charisma throughout the competition.
Facing intense challenges designed to test even the most seasoned professionals, including complex bidding scenarios and curveball distractions, his performance stood
out among the five finalists at the iconic Adelaide Oval.
Harcourts Hamilton director Campbell Scott says his team has long believed that auctions are the most transparent, competitive, and effective way to sell property, and their results back that up.
Trent Finlay, also a director of Harcourt’s Hamilton said seeing McGoldrick’s Adelaide performance under immense pressure was nothing short of extraordinary.
“His meticulous preparation led to a moment that truly showcased the talent we witness every week in our auction room. To have his skills recognised as the best in Australasia is a proud moment for the entire Harcourts family,” said Finlay.
Mark McGoldrick in action at the Australasian Auctioneering championships in Adelaide.
Photo: Supplied
Hamilton
Ako by Paua Architects. Photo: Aaron Radford
Public ArchitectureHamilton Gardens Visitor Precinct by Edwards White Architects (Hamilton); Small Project ArchitecturePūriri Hideaway by Woven Architects (Raglan); Enduring
Farmers hitting the road
Until recently Waikato Federated Farmers met at the organisation’s Hamilton office. As senior writer Chris Gardner finds, they need somewhere else now.
Waikato Federated Farmers new president Phil Sherwood is taking the executive on the road.
Sherwood, 40, says the first executive meeting of his presidency would be held in the Waipā district coupled with an event to attract members.
“It’s part of the engagement process, taking our executive and going back to the region,” he says.
The executive has met at the Waikato Farmers Trust building in Hamilton for decades, but the building’s recent sale has prompted a rethink.
“It was a good opportunity to reevaluate where we are at.”
Sherwood, who up until last season farmed two dairy herds of 500 cows supplying Open Country on two farms near Matamata, was just a few weeks into his new role when The News caught up with him at Farmers Trust building where he and fellow members were sorting through boxes of memorabilia.
This season Sherwood is overseeing a 50/50 herd owner and share milker on one of his farms, and a contract milker on the other.
Educated at Hinuera School and Matamata College, Sherwood was raised on the family farm and took up farming
at 16 where, apart from a couple of short spells off farm, he has remained farming.
In Federated Farmers, he has served as dairy chair and vice president, before succeeding Keith Holmes as president.
Profitability is a key word frequently mentioned at executive meetings.
“We need to be profitable, from not just a farming perspective but from a Waikato perspective. We need those industry groups like Beef + Lamb, DairyNZ and the Foundation for Arable Research to be really championing that profit,” he says.
“Profit will drive innovation.”
And he is waiting expectantly for the outcome of the government’s Finance and Expenditure Committee’s inquiry into banking competition.
“Banks have got their foot on the throats of some farmers,” he says.
“We feed into that rural economy, and I would like to think that they would take their foot of the throat of a few farmers trying to do the right thing.”
When it comes to rural advocacy, the issue at the top of Sherwood’s list is the upcoming Waikato River catchment wide implementation of farm environment plans as part of
Waikato Regional Council’s Plan Change One.
The Environment Court released a 376-page interim decision last month, giving the regional council until July 25 to propose amendments taking into account feedback from parties who appealed the plan change.
He wants to see a more holistic approach between farmers, the Department of Conservation, Operational Solutions for Primary Industries, and Waikato Regional Council around pest control to eliminate a siloed approach.
“The problem is that they all work in isolation to a common goal, and are not working collaboratively,” says Sherwood, who believes in finding common ground with others, realising you cannot be everything to everybody.
He also serves on AgriZero’s farmer focus group as it creates tools to rapidly reduce emissions while maintaining profitability and productivity.
It was too early to share too much about the work of the partnership between the government and agribusiness, but Sherwood hopes it would result in breaking the disconnect between farmer and consumer.
Waikato Federated Farmers president Phil Sherwood is seeking a new office after the sale of the Waikato Farmers Trust building in Hamilton. Photo: Chris Gardner.
The Specific Purpose Work Visa – a good option for employers
New Zealand’s SMEs are no strangers to workforce challenges. Whether it’s an urgent project, a specialist role, or a tight delivery timeline, finding the right person with the right skills locally isn’t always possible. However, not every role justifies the time and cost involved in obtaining employer accreditation, a job check, and an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
The Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV), as the name suggests, is designed for bringing someone to New Zealand for a specific purpose or event. It is a practical, flexible option that many employers can find more cost-effective, and appropriate, than an AEWV, to address their work needs in certain situations.
The SPWV is ideal when the work requirement is defined by a project, and/or is time-bound. Common examples include any project-based work (particularly IT projects), overseas technicians for machinery installation, film crew for locationbased productions, sports people and coaches, performance and event participants and judges, and executives and specialist staff on short-term secondments or work contracts. Pathways has assisted with SPWV applications under all the above categories, and which are just a few examples of the 21,000+ SPWVs that have been approved by Immigration NZ over the past 3 years.
Normally the SPWV is granted for the time required to complete the work project and policy allows for visas up to 3 years in certain instances. It may also be possible to extend the visa if more time is needed. The worker must have the specialist skills required for the work, and the role can be either employment or contract based. Many workers may also continue to be employed, and paid, by their overseas
employer while undertaking their work in New Zealand.
Partners and children can apply for visas based on their relationship to the SPWV holder. This can make the visa more attractive to workers who may be hesitant to relocate without their family—even for a short time.
The main requirements for a SPWV include evidence of the project/work requirement, and that it is timelimited, and requires a person with specialist skills. Documents which confirm the nature of the relationship with the employer, and remuneration terms and the worker’s ability to perform the work are also required.
If an employer has a particular work project for which they require specialist skills for a certain period of time, then the SPWV offers a number of benefits:
• The employer is not required to be accredited
There is no job advertising, and no job check requirement
• The above represent significant cost savings
• Processing time for a SPWV is normally just 2-4 weeks (& sometimes quicker)
• Businesses can remain agile, and to scale up or down based on project needs
The SPWV will not suit every situation but if your business needs to deliver a project, which must be completed in a finite timeframe, and requires specialist skills, then the SPWV should be seriously considered.
The Specific Purpose Work Visa is not just a visa – given the right situation the SPWV could be the perfect business solution!
By NICOLA GREENWELL
Promoting the mighty Waikato is more than our clever marketing campaigns and stunning images – it takes many behind-the-scenes connections, collaborations, and conversations to fly the flag.
At Hamilton and Waikato Tourism, we’re proud ambassadors for the mighty Waikato, and recent industry events have given us prime opportunities to put our region on the map in ways residents rarely see but benefit from.
In February, we attended the International Media Marketplace in Sydney – an important global event connecting the travel media industry. Over 25 one-on-one meetings with Australian travel writers, publications, and influencers allowed us to pitch story ideas and promote our region. The result? Collaborations with Jetstar, Queensland Airports, and Australian media coverage linked to our new Jetstar flights.
The travel trade calendar has been busy, with several major events designed to connect inbound tour operators (ITOs), wholesalers, and agents with regional tourism organisations (RTOs). At these platforms we are the voice of the Waikato, updating the industry on new experiences and offerings.
The RTO/ ITO Day in Auckland in March saw our team hold 58 12-minute appointments over two days. Then came the eXplore Trade Show, a collaborative showcase hosted by the eight central North Island RTOs. Alongside nine Waikato operators, we met over 250 Aucklandbased ITOs – the largest attendance yet.
The highlight of the trade year, TRENZ, took place in Rotorua last month. We attended with four operators, holding 51 appointments and countless discussions. Post-event, we hosted two famil trips showcasing the Waikato firsthand.
HEALTH
Flying the flag Beyond the city limits
By JUSTIN BUTCHER
As chief executive of Pinnacle and a primary care paramedic I have the privilege of seeing the big picture and the frontline of primary health care.
Across the Midland region, Pinnacle supports more than 80 general practices caring for nearly half a million people. In the Waikato we work with 40 plus general practices, about half of which are rural.
Feedback at these events has been extremely positive. There’s growing interest in our everevolving tourism product, including new hotels, the pending opening of our Waikato Regional Theatre, Hamilton Gardens’ new paid-entry model, Hobbiton’s Behind the Scenes tour, and Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari’s seasonal Kiwi experiences. The announcement of Australian flights direct to Hamilton has also been welcomed, including buyers from further afield looking to create dual-destination itineraries.
We’ve partnered with the Central North Island RTOs and Air New Zealand to launch a North American market activation. This initiative includes webinar training with live Q&A, and a famil visit for eight top-selling US agents.
Alongside leisure travel activity, we’ve been promoting the region for conferences and incentive travel. We attended the Australasian Incentive Meetings Expo in Melbourne in February, in collaboration with Tourism New Zealand and Hobbiton Movie Set. Next up is Meetings this month, where we’ll exhibit with eight Waikato venues and event providers. Many of these events lead to familiarisation visits – famils – which we’ll cover in a future column. We also remain active at key tourism gatherings such as the Tourism Summit, Tourism New Zealand Hui, and Regional Tourism NZ events.
Behind every campaign, event, collaboration or conversation is a committed team working to showcase the Waikato. Tourism promotion is a team effort – and wherever we go, we’re proud to fly the flag for the mighty Waikato. After all, a great place to visit is a great place to live.
• Nicola Greenwell is general manager of Hamilton and Waikato Tourism.
General practice is under significant strain from workforce shortages, escalating workloads and an ongoing misalignment between funding and need, and nowhere are these pressures felt more than in our rural and remote communities.
That’s why rural general practice sustainability is central to our work. As the country’s largest rural primary care network, our role is to provide backbone support to help practices not just stay afloat but thrive.
We weave our network together – offering peer support, shared tools, economies of scale, workforce initiatives and innovation that help stretch precious health resources further.
Take our investment in rural connectivity –we funded fibre connections for rural practices in 2019, long before the national rollout would reach them, making virtual health services possible.
Fast forward one year and those practices were able to provide virtual health care throughout the Covid-19 pandemic when it was needed most.
We pioneered a rural accelerated chest pain pathway which equips GPs with point-of-care diagnostics to rule out serious conditions like heart attacks, reducing unnecessary hospital transfers. We also introduced the use of
handheld ultrasound devices, enabling faster, more accurate assessments in rural practices. These technologies improve outcomes while also saving time and money – for the system, and for individual patients because we know people like to stay close to home when they can. Supporting the people behind the care matters too. We worked with Waikato University to develop their nursing degree ensuring primary care was a strong feature. We stand by the proposed third medical school, with its unique approach to graduate entry, community-focused training and strong rural focus. We helped pilot a pathway for international medical graduates to work in general practice, the success of which has attracted a funding boost for next year.
We provide a summer locum grant to help rural practices in our summer hotspots get through periods of peak demand. Finally, we carefully co-developed a telehealth service called Practice Plus with Wellington-based Primary Health Organisation Tū Ora Compass Health, providing practices with a virtual service offering that complements rather than competes with their own service, and we did it with a particular view to solutions for rural communities characterised by workforce constraints and patient access problems. The future of rural health care won’t be secured by a single silver bullet, but by a thousand practical supports, delivered locally, that keep the doors open and the lights on.
We’re here for that work, every day.
• Justin Butcher is Pinnacle Midlands Health Network chief executive, and a critical care flight paramedic with road, air and most recently frontline primary care experience.
University responds to student boom
Students want more than just a place to sleep — and Waikato University is listening. Senior writer Mary Anne Gill reveals its new $10 million apartments are all about community, comfort, and giving students a real home on campus.
Waikato University is racing against the clock to complete a new $10 million student apartment complex, with construction scheduled to wrap up in just nine months.
Despite the tight timeline, confidence is high among project leaders and contractors.
“We’re at the stage now where the majority of the risk from groundworks has been mitigated,” said Property Development and Infrastructure director Tony Kavanagh.
He referred to the extensive site preparation completed in April, which included the removal of a concrete car park, trees, and a grassy knoll. “The only thing that’s going to hold us up now is the weather.”
During the recent media launch, construction crews were already making the most of favourable weather conditions, preparing the site for the first concrete pour set for the following week.
The development consists of three townhouse-style buildings — two and three stories tall — on Knighton Road in Hamilton.
Together, they will provide 75 rooms built to New Zealand Standard 3604, a timber construction code. The use of modular timber will accelerate the build, says Foster Construction director Leonard Gardner.
The first occupants will move in early next year.
“We’ve locked down the design and that’s a big one, as long as we don’t change the design,” says Kavanagh who has worked at the university for eight years and was involved on the work in Tauranga, The Pā and other refits.
The new accommodation comes at a critical time for the university, which is experiencing a surge in student numbers.
Chief operating officer Jim Mercer says the university this year had its largest international and schoolleaver student cohorts.
“International student markets have rebounded even faster than we could have anticipated. The Indian market has come
through extremely strongly and there’s signs that the Chinese are coming back too,” he says.
“We just need more student accommodation and it’s less of the catered traditional hall type. It’s this kind of quality self-catered accommodation.”
The university is funding the project independently, adding to its existing 1121 on-campus beds
“We’ve got unmet demand at the moment so doing these is a real no brainer.
“We know that prospective students will be starting to consider their study options for 2026 soon, and we’re pleased to be in the mix with this strong new accommodation offering,” says Mercer.
Student Services and Pastoral Care director Brett McEwan says the new apartments have been designed to foster a sense of community among students.
“We’ve aimed to create a sense of community by providing shared areas that will support a range of group activities,” says McEwan.
The layout also integrates the new buildings with the wider student residential
village through pathways and shared spaces that connect to nearby amenities.
After navigating several financially challenging years, the university is
optimistic about the future.
“So now it’s really about supporting the growth path and really making sure that we give our students the best possible experience.”
Foster Construction’s Leonard Gardner, left with chief operating officer Jim Mercer at the site for Waikato University's new apartments.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
A rendering of the new self-catered apartments at the University of Waikato, located along Knighton Road. Photo: Waikato University
The Benefit of Acting Now
Over the last month or so, we have seen purchasers and tenants make two very distinct calls.
- Do nothing and wait to see what happens
- Act now and take advantage of the current market conditions
This has never been more apparent than today, following the May 28th OCR cut. Those that decide to act are most likely to reap the benefits in due course.
Benefits as a Purchaser:
There are some genuinely motivated vendors out there, looking to either reposition themselves or seeking to move on with their lives. Either way, many are keen to get on and see a deal struck. It won’t be the deal they were seeking 12 months ago or what they might be seeking in another 12 months time, but it will give them certainty. Some recent purchases we have been involved in, include:
- Price reductions, particularly where the offer is cash and unconditional
- Vendor finance at attractive rates
- Delayed settlements, some up to 2 years or more
- Part trades
Benefits as a Tenant:
A landlord’s biggest issue is a vacant tenancy. Not only are they not receiving rental, they are now also having to dip into their own pockets to pay for rates and insurance that are not being covered by a Tenant. Some recent leases we have been involved in, include:
- Lower rental, and in some cases it’s a significantly lower rental for poorer quality space
- Landlord upgrade works
- Rentalised or amortised Tenant fitout works
- Rent free periods
- Shorter initial lease terms
What we are also now seeing, is a portion of property that can be purchased, with genuinely motivated Vendors – a number of which are not on the open market (so you won’t see them on TradeMe or Realestate.co.nz)
It is only now that we really appreciate the differentiation between prime property and the lesser grade stock, which is often ripe for refurbishment. Quality property appears to be holding up remarkably well, largely because it’s still in short supply. Lesser grades where value can be added, provide the greatest opportunity.
“Hope is not a strategy for Success”
Our Prospects?
The longer term prospects for Hamilton and the Waikato remain very positive – international flights are returning, Brookfields recent $1bn logistics joint venture with Tainui Group Holdings to develop the Ruakura Superhub, Perrys development of 62ha at Te Awa Lakes in Horotiu and the opening of Peacocke’s greenfield development south of the city.
In the CBD, we are only months away from the completion of the new Waikato Regional Theatre, development of the Pullman Hotel on Ward Street is progressing well and demolition is underway for the next building at Union Square (an announcement is imminent).
Leasing or buying premises
If it’s your first premises or you are relocating, the first step is to think about buying vs leasing.
Buying offers more stability. Leasing is more flexible.
Deciding which option is best for you, is about understanding where your business is headed.
If you are an owner occupier, tenant or investor, I would encourage you to consider taking advantage of the tail wind that is currently in your favour – for its only a matter of time until the wind changes direction. So, talk to your trusted commercial and industrial real estate agent today, as they will know the opportunities and be able to provide advice for an informed decision for the future.
Mike Neale, Managing Director, NAI Harcourts Hamilton
The importance of values
By PHIL MACKAY
The state of Israel is conducting a genocide in Gaza. And we are choosing to stand by and let it happen. That’s an uncomfortable statement to make.
It’s an incredibly challenging time in the construction industry.
As a business manager it’s essential that I stay on message.
The last thing I should be doing is talking about an unrelated and polarising topic that might alienate potential clients.
But it is when it’s uncomfortable that we find out how important our ‘values’ really are to us.
And I have a platform of sorts, and therefore responsibility. For clarity though, these are my views and not necessarily those of PAUA Architects.
The latest news from Gaza is Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement that the Israeli military will take full control of the Gaza strip, as they prepare for a significant new offensive.
The military intends to create specific distribution centres for aid, in the south of the country, to encourage starving Palestinians to relocate, and enable the ‘cleansing’ of the territory.
The Israeli Finance Minister, Bezalel Smoltrich, was quoted saying “The Gazan citizens will be concentrated in the South. They will be totally despairing, understanding that there is no hope and nothing to look for in Gaza, and will be looking for relocation”. This is not about preventing terrorism, or even about destroying Hamas. It is ethnic cleansing,
plain and simple.
It strikes me that ‘western’ democracies in the past have been willing to get involved in wars for geopolitical reasons but reluctant to do so for moral or humanitarian reasons.
And numerous times in the past we’ve looked back on situations, like the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, with regret, that we didn’t say or do more.
No doubt atrocities like this have gone on for centuries, though in the past we may not have had timely awareness or cause to feel responsible.
Like it or not, however, we now live in a globalised world where our actions or inaction impact those on the other side of the globe.
We rely on each other for trade, and our lifestyles impact on the planet that we all share. We therefore now have an obligation to be good global citizens.
I think kiwi generally like to think of ourselves as a fundamentally ‘good’ country.
But we are only as ‘good’ as our actions. As Martin Luther King Jr said, “The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people.”
Palestinians in Gaza are now our neighbours, and New Zealand can and should stand up and say something.
• Phil Mackay is Business Development Manager at Hamilton-based PAUA, Procuta Associates Urban + Architecture
eggs
The cost of canning greyhound racing
A ban on greyhound racing has sparked backlash in Waikato, raising concerns over lost livelihoods, dog welfare, and a rushed decision-making process. Jesse Wood finds out what’s at stake.
No warning. No consultation. Just a deadline.
The greyhound racing industry has been blindsided by the government’s decision to shut it down by July 2026 — leaving behind a $13 million hole in Waikato’s economy and more than 2900 dogs needing homes.
And that’s just the beginning.
Greyhound racing contributes around $133 million annually to New Zealand’s economy, with a significant share generated in the Waikato region.
But the government’s sudden move to shut the sport down has left industry participants reeling.
Racing minister Winston Peters says the ban allows time to rehome
the dogs. But with Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) already spending more than $8.5 million a year on rehoming, the scale of the task ahead is daunting.
“It’s not just about finding homes — it’s about finding the right homes,” says Jenny Bartlett, a Cambridgebased greyhound advocate and former Waikato Greyhound Racing president.
“The whole rehoming side of it is all for the dog. It’s not whether the dog’s right for you. It’s if you’re right for that dog. It takes time to get that right.
“They all make the most amazing pets, they’ve got a great nature, but you have to get the right home for each dog,” she says.
“You tell me how we’re going to do it. I’d like to ask Winston that myself.”
Bartlett warns that the 2900 figure is conservative, not accounting for puppies, breeding dogs, and sires.
She says the government’s own Ministerial Advisory Committee (MAC) has acknowledged the rehoming process could take up to 30 months beyond the ban date.
“We were absolutely blindsided,” she says. “Trainers had dogs in breeding cycles with no idea this was coming.”
GRNZ filed for a judicial review of the government’s decision last month, arguing that the industry was denied a fair chance to respond.
It was a rushed and inadequate Cabinet paper, says chief executive Edward Rennell.
“The government took its decision too lightly and too quickly. It’s an injustice to breeders, owners, trainers, and everyone involved.”
The judicial review aims to expose what he says is a “cavalier attitude to policymaking” that has real consequences for thousands of New Zealanders.
The fallout extends beyond the dogs. Bartlett estimates Cambridge Raceway could lose $100,000 annually in rent. Local businesses — from vets and feed suppliers to cafes and TAB staff — are also expected to suffer.
For Te Awamutu-based trainer Corey Steele, the decision has shattered his family’s future. A thirdgeneration greyhound handler, Steele has poured nearly $100,000 into building kennels and facilities.
“Mum and Dad spent 30 years building this place,” he says. “Now it’s all worthless. The sheds, the irrigation, the paddocks — it’s all for nothing.”
Even on Christmas Day, Steele and his family are out caring for the dogs.
“When we had Covid, we were crawling through the kennels to make sure the dogs were fed and cared for. The dogs always come first. But now, no one’s thinking about the welfare of the human.”
With a judicial review of the government’s decision still pending, the future of greyhound racing — and the people and animals who depend on it remains uncertain.
With thousands of dogs needing homes, livelihoods on the line, and no clear roadmap in place, the greyhound racing industry is staring down a crisis. For many, this isn’t just the end of a sport—it’s the collapse of a community, a culture,
and a way of life.
Trainers, breeders, and support workers who’ve dedicated decades to the care of these animals now face an uncertain future. The dogs they’ve raised, raced, and loved are caught in the middle of a political decision.
“There’s still a lot of water to go under the bridge,” Bartlett says. “But right now, we’re left with more questions than answers.”
Natthakan Srisuk and Michael Lozell care for up to 12 greyhounds at a time through the Great Mates rehoming programme at their Te Kūiti home.
Photo: King Country News
Wayne Steele of Te Awamutu, with Amber, one of his racing greyhounds.
Photo: Jeremy Smith
Rodney Stirling
Smart marketing for candidates
By JOSH MOORE
The 2025 local body elections are fast approaching, so candidates need to be planning how they’ll market themselves to their community.
Rodney Stirling
can do last-minute, so start this process well in advance.
By CLAIRE WILLIAMSON
Running for local office is as much about visibility as it is about policy. So effective marketing is essential.
The Local Electoral Act 2001 sets strict limits on how much you can spend during your campaign. That means every dollar must work hard to build awareness and trust. People need to see your name and face multiple times in different ways before they will vote for you.
One of the easiest wins you can give yourself is getting a professional photo taken. Too many candidates last time opted for DIY pictures - some even submitted what looked like passport photos where they weren’t smiling! That doesn’t convey confidence or approachability.
A professional headshot will go a long way to looking competent and trustworthy. Use it consistently across all your campaign material, including when submitting your nomination, as this is used in the official voting packs.
Don’t underestimate the value of local print newspapers. They remain highly trusted by many voters, particularly older demographics. Advertising in them can boost your visibility, especially if you manage to secure a front-page ad. These premium spots are limited and book out quickly, so get in early if you want to lock one in.
Social media will likely be part of your strategy, but keep in mind that unless you already have a strong following, posts won’t reach far organically.
Running ads is the best way to increase reach - but there’s a catch. Facebook (and Instagram) have strict requirements for political advertising. You’ll need to go through an approval process that includes identity verification, page disclaimers, and other admin hurdles. It’s not something you
Traditional fence signs still play a big role in name recognition. Focus on placing them along high-traffic routes and think strategically - can someone encounter your signs three or four times in a single trip across town? That kind of repetition sticks. Digital billboards are also useful and more affordable than traditional billboards. Again, book early.
My friends and family know I’m a bit of a gardening geek, and this weekend I spent an unreasonable amount of time out in the garden, harvesting, preparing the soil, considering the impact of upcoming weather, and planting for the new season.
long-term asset.
Spread the seeds widely
EXPERT CONCRETE GRINDING, POLISHING & SEALANTS / COATINGS FOR FLOORS & WALLS
I couldn’t help thinking that this closely mirrors the discussions I have daily with my clients, about financial goal setting and planning, guiding them through the seasons and ensuring they take the right kind of action at the right time.
An investment property shouldn’t be your only wealth-building strategy, but it can diversify your portfolio beyond KiwiSaver, shares, business or term deposits. Just as a thriving garden features multiple crops, consider different locations or property types if you plan multiple purchases, strong fundamentals and a proven record of yields. Plant with purpose
Right now, with borrowing costs easing and prices holding steady, it may be the perfect moment to sow the seeds of your next investment property.
But, like any good gardener, you’ll need a plan and an eye for timing.
Fertile borrowing conditions
Our team is Consistent, Reliable, Professional & Considerate
The profile blurb in the voting packs is critical. When writing your blurb think, “Does my blurb present me as someone credible and trustworthy who can help tackle the issues people care most about?”
Finally, if you want to run for mayor, you should also have a website to share more about what you stand for, and link to from your social media ads. (This isn’t as crucial for councillor candidates, but it will help you stand out). I recommend using Rocketspark for a cost-effective and easy website. Ultimately, you’re asking voters to trust you. A well-presented, well-planned, professional campaign is important for earning that trust.
• Josh Moore is the Managing Director at Hamilton digital marketing agency Duoplus.
Interest rates have fallen over 2 per cent in the past year, improving borrowing power for almost everyone, and for many this has opened up the possibility of an investment property purchase. Understanding where your serviceability sits today gives you a head start on anyone else out there looking to make offers on properties, and chatting with an adviser ensures you’ve got all the bank options on the table.
Solid ground beneath your feet
While prices aren’t tumbling, on average they remain fractionally below the peaks seen in 2021–22. In markets around the Waikato, many vendors are realistic on price, with a lot of stock on the market and plenty of choice for buyers ready to take action. Purchasing in a calmer market also reduces the risk of overpaying, and sets the scene for a strong
Are you after passive (or higher) income now, or targeting capital growth or development in five to 10 years? Do you want potential to live in the property eventually, or maximise your tax position? Do you understand how a new purchase may affect others down the track?
Clearly define your objectives and share them with your circle of trusted professionals. A well-laid plan will help you structure the right finance options, identify suitable properties and avoid getting swept up in bidding wars – this is not your dream home, after all.
Just as a gardener waits for the right weather to sow, savvy investors look for windows of opportunity. With lower interest rates, better serviceability, and steady prices, the ground is fertile—but only if you plant with care.
This winter, we’ll be enjoying a fabulous broccoli harvest, thanks to some excellent planning months ago. So, if you want a great result; talk to experts, understand your tradeoffs, and set your sights firmly on the right actions to take to get there. • Claire Williamson is a Waikato Mortgage Advisor.
Our team is Consistent, Reliable, Professional & Considerate
Our team is Consistent, Reliable,
Our team is Consistent, Reliable, Professional & EXPERT
Rodney Stirling
EXPERT
Rodney Stirling EXPERT
Rodney Stirling
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Rodney Stirling
Partnership strengthens local growth
South Waikato District Council and the Waikato Chamber of Commerce aim to boost local business growth through networking, export support, and advocacy. Senior writer Mary Anne Gill was at the launch.
Anew three-year collaboration between the South Waikato District Council and the Waikato Chamber of Commerce aims to accelerate economic development and strengthen the local business community.
Speaking at the launch of the Strengthening South Waikato’s Business Community initiative at the New Zealand Timber Museum in Putāruru last month, mayor Gary Petley said the partnership would help the district and its businesses achieve longterm growth goals.
“We needed to invest in a more comprehensive approach,” Petley said, acknowledging that previous attempts to establish similar initiatives had fallen short.
The collaboration will see Kiani Tuhua, a dedicated part-time chamber staff member, based in the South Waikato to deliver networking opportunities, export support and advocacy services to local businesses.
The chamber’s primary role is to strengthen the South Waikato business community and enhance its connection with the broader Waikato region.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow business leaders, learn about our vision for South Waikato, and discover how we can work together to foster growth and collaboration,” chief executive Don Good said.
“It opens doors for South Waikato companies to tap into our networks and access practical tools, whether it’s cutting export paperwork delays or connecting manufacturers with offshore buyers.”
Petley said local business engagement was important.
“Business associations by their nature are driven by membership so it’s crucial that local business gets behind this partnership. We encourage local businesses to become members.”
Tuhua, who has been the Community Engagement and Partnerships lead for the South Waikato Investment Fund Trust since 2022 and will retain that position, has a background in banking, insurance, management and sales.
“My role is all about building strong relationships, creating meaningful connections, and championing the district’s businesses so they can grow, adapt, and flourish.”
The partnership will
mean chamber members in South Waikato gain access to networking events connecting local enterprises with regional and international markets, export document certification services, advocacy on issues impacting businesses, and learning opportunities.
South Waikato chief executive Susan Law highlighted the alignment with Long-Term Plan community goals.
“Investing in business capability is critical for our district’s intergenerational prosperity. Through this collaboration, we’re ensuring our employers have the tools and networks to scale sustainably and create high-value jobs.”
Briefs…
Jets back
Air New Zealand is boosting regional connectivity, with jet services to be introduced on the Hamilton–Christchurch route. The two cities will operate a 171-seat Airbus A320 from September marking a major milestone as Air New Zealand brings domestic jet services back to Hamilton for the first time in 25 years.
Time to volunteer
National Volunteer week starts June 15 and 8000 Hato Hone St John ambulance and community health volunteers nationwide will be among those being thanked.
Sasha wins
Hamilton heavy fabrication apprentice Sasha Devia is one of four winners in the National Association of Women in Construction awards. Devia who works at Tidd Ross Todd Ltd won professional resources and a $10,000 Bunnings trade prize pack. Women face significantly higher barriers to entry in the trade and construction industry. The awards aim to empower women at
the start of their trade careers with recognition and support from the industry.
New substation
Waipā Networks new 33kV zone substation at Hautapu, which connects to Transpower’s Grid Exit Point, has been commissioned. The upgrade, which connects to 13,000 new homes over the next 25 years, provides an additional 96MW (megawatts) capacity and a more reliable power supply for future growth.
Book launched
A new novel by Suzanne Miller, launched at St Paul’s Collegiate School in Hamilton this month, shines a light on obsessive compulsive disorder and Tokanui Hospital near Te Awamutu. The story weaves together themes of mental health, family history, and a touch of romance.
Mentors needed
The Waikato Waahine mentorship programme which matches young women with mentors has proven so successful, there are not enough
mentors to go around to help the 70 who sought help. Waikato Chamber of Commerce is keen to hear from other women able to become a mentor to share insights and foster deep relationships.
Happy birthday
Waikato Draught, one of New Zealand’s most iconic beers, is 100 this year. It’s known for its strong malty flavour and well-defined bitterness, and through the decades, the loyalty of its fans. The brand’s story began with pioneering brewer and astute Welshwoman, Mary Jane Innes. Lion released limited-edition Waikato Draught centenary 12-packs with the first brew sold out in days.
Programme support
Bridge Housing has added a second bank to support its First Home Partner programme. ASB joins Westpac as a key banking partner, expanding the lending options available to individuals and families working with Bridge Housing to secure their first home. The programme is designed for eligible buyers who can service a mortgage but need a helping hand with their deposit.
A section of the attendees during the Strengthening South Waikato Business Community launch at the New Zealand Timber Museum.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Jenny MacGregor (Waikato Chamber of Commerce) with South Waikato mayor Gary Petley at Strengthening South Waikato’s Business Community launch in Putāruru.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Med school: ACT not convinced
By Chris Gardner
Prove it’s a good use of taxpayers’ money.
That’s the message from ACT Party leader David Seymour to his National coalition partners about a medical school at Waikato University.
“There’s one party that wants to do it, and if they can make the case this is a good use of taxpayers money, then we will support it,” Seymour told a Waikato Chamber of Commerce business lunch in Hamilton last month.
The post-lunch question and answer session was dominated by questions on the lack of progress on opening the nation’s third medical school in the region.
The National Party campaigned on the lead up to the last election of establishing a new medical school at Waikato University to address New Zealand’s doctor shortage.
“Without getting into an extended argument, I could tell you that they haven’t come close to doing it, and if you want to blame someone, I would not blame the person who is standing up for careful use of taxpayer money, I would blame the person who made a promise that is maybe a bit harder to stack up than initially indicated.
“If you want to say bugger it, we are going down the parochial route, each area of the country should be out for what they get, regardless of
cost: benefit analysis, well that is another approach,” Seymour said on the eve of him taking over as deputy prime minister.
“But New Zealand has been there before. Every region had its thing from the government, and we went broke.
“I stand here on the basis of careful use of taxpayers’ money. If there’s a clear objective and the best way to achieve the objective to subsidise the University of Waikato is to build a medical school, I’m all in. But the onus is on the proponents of the idea to show that it stacks up and I think if I was annoyed about why it hadn’t happened, I would be asking them about why they haven’t been able
Holding fast to their Kiwi roots
By Viv Posselt
A Hamilton fashion boutique known for its New Zealand-designed and made women’s wear has celebrated its 25th birthday in style.
Kate Harris, owner/creative designer of Hamilton fashion boutique NES, is taking a bold approach to marking the outlet’s quarter century.
Harris has owned the boutique since 2022. She and her co-designer, Cambridge’s Robyn Stinson, marked the landmark anniversary by working on a new brand which is expected to dominate the range within a few seasons.
Still under wraps, the new brand will centre on a mix of contemporary design and timeless elegance, Harris said, but will incorporate a stronger sustainability element while holding fast to its Kiwi roots.
“We want to keep the manufacturing in New Zealand, but we’re also on sustainability,” Harris said.
“The market today wants that. Many of NES’s clients are changing how they shop. They might buy the designer basics from us, perhaps pants or a jacket, but shop elsewhere for other items, and that’s okay. It’s about us being strategic in how we meet those changes.”
The intention is to optimise the use of fabric when making a garment, slashing wastage to a minimum through smart
design, then turning useable scraps into accessories.
Working towards the launch of their new brand and heading off the trend to manufacture offshore, particularly in a time of economic uncertainty, is ballsy, but Harris and Stinson are up for it.
Harris holds a degree in design, majoring in fashion, while Stinson has a background in media arts with a focus on design.
The pair met years ago when shifting through the same fashion circles, but it was only about nine months ago that Stinson came on board at NES.
Stinson owned an upmarket Cambridgebased boutique, Ooby Ryn for a decade until moving out of fashion in 2016 to help her husband establish Black Shepherd Apiaries on the outskirts of town. While doing that, she continued designing from home.
“Last year, I felt I was ready to move back into the fashion industry … Kate was looking for someone, so we caught up,” she says.
“I love design and am excited about what we can do together. When running my store, I developed a keen eye for what looks good on different shapes.”
Harris said Stinson’s creativity was the perfect foil for her own commercial bent.
NES began when Auckland travel agent Vanessa Herbert turned her passion for fashion into a label and store in Hamilton which she initially called Dolly Bird.
to do that.”
Seymour said he would be happy to release a critique of the proposal, if Health minister Simeon Brown released his ministry’s analysis.
Chamber chief executive Don Good said he had “a whole bunch of questions on the medical school” which he would send to Seymour’s office.
“If this community has concluded that the path to salvation is the construction of a medical school at the university then there may actually be bigger and deep-seated problems here than the lack of a medical school,” Seymour said.
“We would agree with the Government approving it if the advocates could put up the case.”
Globetrotting plumber
Hamilton-based 20-year-old plumbing apprentice Keegan Calkin is rewriting the book on what it means to be a plumber.
In just his fourth year of a dual trade apprenticeship, Keegan has transformed his family trade into a global career, broadening his skills and perspectives in ways he never imagined.
Keegan’s apprenticeship took an exciting turn when he received an invitation to the International Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Foundation (IWSH) Plumbing Champions initiative in Frankfurt, Germany.
This unique platform brought together plumbers from around the world to share ideas and techniques.
“Their technology is incredible. Everything is made there, and it’s right at their fingertips. It made me realise how far behind New Zealand is in some areas,” Keegan said.
But his international experiences don’t stop there. Keegan also spent three weeks in Tonga, working on the construction of a Mormon temple.
“I didn’t really expect I could work overseas, especially just starting out in my apprenticeship, but I’m keen to see where it goes,” he shared.
Keegan’s passion for plumbing began as a family affair, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, father, and uncle. He now works for his father’s company, FB Hall & Co., one of Hamilton’s largest and most
established plumbing firms with over 100 years of history, and a host business of ATT, part of the IntoWork Group.
ATT Account Manager Kim Dunn emphasised the transformative impact of Keegan’s international experiences.
“Keegan wasn’t overly excited at first, but once he got there, it was the best thing he ever did. It was an incredible experience that has broadened his horizons,” Kim said.
Keegan’s exposure to global practices has inspired him to consider a future working overseas.
New appointments
Board changes
Smart Waikato has added two new trustees to its board – Neil Harray and Teresa Poli.
Poli, who has a Master of Engineering from Waikato University, has worked across the construction and infrastructure sectors in Australia and New Zealand. She advocates for greater Māori and wāhine representation in the industry.
Harray has been Te Aroha College principal since 2023 and brings over a decade of leadership experience in secondary education. He is
also active in governance, holding roles with Waihi Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Thames Valley Rugby and local government.
Collins starts at firm Liam Collins has joined Cambridge law firm Douglas Lawyers focussing on employment law. Under the guidance of Jo Douglas, Liam’s primary focus will be providing advice and representation to both employers and employees on employment-related matters.
He hopes to expand the practice in employment law, developing related
regulatory areas including health and safety advice and representation. Mayes joins council Strategic expert Katie Mayes has joined Waipā District Council as executive director charged with kick starting the failed Cambridge Connections project. Mayes was NZTA’s national manager System Planning and Investment until recently. Cambridge Connections aims to create an integrated and sustainable transport network to support the fastgrowing town over the next 30 years.
David Seymour
Katie Mayes Liam Collins Neil Harray Teresa Poli
Keegan Calkin pictured at the International Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Foundation Plumbing Champions initiative in Frankfurt.
Photo: Supplied
Waikato fashionistas Kate Harris, left, and Robyn Stinson are turning a quarter century anniversary milestone into a future-proofing opportunity.
Photo: Viv Posselt
Mind the gap: change to palliative care supported
Hospice Waikato’s new chief executive Alex Gordon wants to see paediatric palliative care improved in the country, writes senior writer Chris Gardner.
New Zealand could do better providing paediatric, adolescent and young adult palliative care, says new Hospice Waikato chief executive Alex Gordon.
“I compare what we were able to provide in the UK to here and it’s chalk and cheese,” he says.
The 51-year-old served 11 years on the board of London’s first children’s hospice, Richard House in Beckton, before emigrating to New Zealand in 2016 to join Waikato Hospital as director of operations, cancer and medical service.
“There is a major gap in this country.”
Around 360 children die of cancer, diseases and syndromes in New Zealand every year, and there is only one publicly funded doctor specialising in endof-life care for children.
Gordon backs one of four models of care proposed by the Health Zealand National Palliative Care Steering Group to create a paediatric palliative care clinical service network and the establishment of four regional multidisciplinary hubs.
Hubs could be established in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch, although the locations were not confirmed in the proposal.
“Whether it’s us or it’s Waikato Hospital or True Colours Children’s Health Trust or other organisation it doesn’t matter,” Gordon says.
“The most important thing is that we are able to provide better care to the kids. The system needs to support the kids and their whanau who go through hugely challenging time. It’s a real opportunity to do something different and better. There are some major opportunities to improve paediatric childcare in this country.”
Consultation on a range of proposals closed in early May.
Gordon came to New Zealand after a 17-year career in the British National Health Service where he was National Health Service North West London area director and London system resilience programme director.
“We came here on our honeymoon and the conversation changed,” Gordon says.
He is married to Polish national Joanna.
“We fell in love with New Zealand. I thought you only live once, let’s try it.”
The couple emigrated with their two children now aged nine and 11 and live in Tamahere.
Gordon loved his time at Waikato Hospital.
“It wasn’t easy,” he says. “It had White Island, Covid, and a cyberattack.”
His Waikato Hospital role brought him into the office of Hospice Waikato on occasion.
“I always thought what a great job, he’s a lucky man, and I thought, if ever that job comes up, I must go for it.
“What’s really nice about this [job] is the people. The people that work here, staff and volunteers, are clearly hugely dedicated, hugely committed to the organisation.”
Gordon’s family has benefitted from hospice care in Oxfordshire, UK.
“My father died under the care of hospice with pancreatic cancer. I saw how that impacted on my family, how the nurses and doctors were so loving and caring, and I guess that stayed with me.”
Outside of advocacy, Gordon’s challenge is to ensure financial sustainability of the organisation.
“We don’t have very significant deficit,” he says.
“Unless we take action, we will have.
“About 60 to 70 per cent of our funding is from the government, and the rest is from our community.
We couldn’t continue to function without that support. We are very reliant on the Government dollar and very grateful for it, but also, we’re very reliant on the community support we have.”
The shortfall is met from fundraising events, such as the recent blacktie Bucket List Banquet at Globox Arena, Claudelands, which raised $623,000 this year, and a network op shops across the region including the Lake Road, Hamilton, branch which turns over $2 million per year.
Hospice Waikato served 1600 patients; 1100 of whom died.
“That’s about an average of three patients dying a day on our books, which sounds horrendous, but some of them stay for a long time, and the teams are very dedicated and care for them very well,” Gordon says.
Only about five per cent are admitted to the hospice’s dedicated in-patient unit, including the Rainbow Place paediatric care unit.
WAIKATO AUTOMOTIVE DIRECTORY
WAIKATO AUTOMOTIVE DIRECTORY
Keeping powered up
Taking care of your car battery is necessary, but often forgotten about when looking for reliable vehicle performance, especially in our diverse climate. It’s important to regularly check your battery every few months for any signs of corrosion, leaks, or loose connections. Clean terminals by using a mixture of baking soda and water to remove buildup. Regular driving keeps the battery charged. If you’re not using your vehicle for extended periods, consider using a trickle charger to maintain the battery’s charge. Too long without power will see a decreased charge when isn’t good for optimum performance. Short drives may not give your alternator enough time to fully recharge the battery; longer trips are better for
maintaining charge levels.
New Zealand’s sunny summer days can actually cause the battery to overheat. Whenever possible, park your car in a shaded area or garage to prevent heat damage. Cold winters can also reduce battery performance. Before starting the car, turn off all accessories like lights or the radio to avoid draining the battery, and give it a minute to warm up.
Have your battery tested regularly by a professional, especially before long trips or if you notice slow starts at least once a year.
With proper care, your car battery can last longer and perform better, ensuring your vehicle stays road-ready across our varied landscapes and temperatures.
Alex Gordon.
Photo: Chris Gardner
Out and about…
Focus on the second Waipā Home and Leisure Show
Visitors to Waipā’s second Home and Leisure Show last month came genuinely interested in what was on offer and wanted to talk with exhibitors. That is the feedback Good Local publisher David Mackenzie got from the 75 stand owners at Lake Karāpiro. The show is the second run by Good Local Media, which publishes the Waikato Business News, Cambridge News, Te Awamutu News and King Country News. “Exhibitors signed up for next year before they left the building, already talking about new stands they will build for 2026,” Mackenzie said. The objective for 2026 would be to extend the size of the show so there is more to see.
Cameron and Kat Fraser of Advanced Trees braved the early morning chilly conditions outside the Sir Don Rowlands Centre at Lake Karāpiro.
Bruce Bodley-Davies Investment Relations advisor for Alpha First Mortgage Investments.
It was a busy time at the Cambridge Tiles stand with owner Julie Atherton.
Peter Colohan of Zenteq Healthwear was a popular stop for show visitors.
Sophie Paterson of Karāpiro with Lucy, 5 who goes to Roto-oRangi School, and sister Kate 2 watch from above as Momentum Building’s Anthony Paterson, middle below looks after the stand.
Checking it out, David Soar and Trevor Morris of Cambridge Real Estate check out a stallholder’s pamphlet.
Lawn Rite franchise development managers Cameron Ryan, left, who covers New Zealand and Waikato’s Davy Dhiman.
Taupō MP Louise Upston felt right at home on her own doorstep at Lake Karāpiro with former Cambridge chair Ruth Crampton, still supporting the party where she can. Interior designers Alexis Parker, left, and Abbie McLean on the Designers CoLab stand.
Air Conditioning Group owner Ian Grant, right, joined Phillip Webb on their stand.
Craig Stephenson, left and Marie Mant, on the Wilsons Cambridge stand which included a putting competition which drew plenty of keen golfers.
Out and about…
Waikato awards for service
Brendan Lindsay, owner of Cambridge Stud and long-time supporter of Te Arawhata - the Zealand Liberation Museum in Le Quesnoy, France – has been knighted for his services to business and philanthropy. Lindsay built Sistema Plastics into a recognised leading global food storage brand, producing sustainable and recyclable storage products stamped ‘Made in New Zealand’ and exported to 55 countries. The many charitable organisations assisted include Pet Refuge, Starship National Air Ambulance Service, New Zealand Riding for the Disabled and Assistance Dogs New Zealand Trust.
Hamilton’s Tyrone Marks has become a Companion of the King’s Service Order for his services to survivors of abuse in care. The father of six became a ward of the state as a seven-year-old and then spent eight years at various homes, including the Lake Alice adolescent unit and the Hamilton Boys’ Home. When he left he could not read and write but went on to get a sociology and psychology degree at Waikato University and is currently studying political relations. As a member of the Crown Response Unit’s Redress Design Group, Marks has helped develop a survivor-led design for a proposed new redress system following the report.
Photo: Aaron Smale
Sarah Walker was in Switzerland for an International Olympic Committee meeting when it was announced she had become an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the King’s Birthday Honours list for her service to BMX cycling and sports governance. She is a two time gold medallist at the world champs and became New Zealand’s first BMX medallist in 2012 at the London Olympics. The 36-year-old mother of two lives in Cambridge but regularly travels overseas for her role on the Olympic Committee. Photo:
Tamahere businessman and Waikato Chamber of Commerce chair Peter Nation has received an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit gong for his services to the agricultural industry and governance. Nation served on the Fieldays board from 2004 to 2016, and various other associated committees from 1995, having become involved through his ANZ Regional rural manager role as sponsor representative and banker, supporting capital investments such as the Mystery Creek Pavilion. As chief executive, he oversaw the society’s annual organisation of the National Fieldays event at Mystery Creek, the biggest agricultural event in Australasia, and successfully steered the event business through the disruptions of the Covid pandemic.
Mary Anne Gill
Authors knitting together fact and fiction at a ‘Culprits in Cambridge’ event at Cambridge Library last month are, from left, Cambridge’s David ‘Chook’ Henwood and Nikki Crutchley, Rotorua’s Zoe Rankin and Pukekohe’s Angus McLean. The event was part of Waipā’s Mystery in the Library series, run in association with the Ngaio Marsh Awards. The panel was chaired by two-time Ngaio’s finalist Nikki Crutchley. Photo: Viv Posselt
Kiani Tuhui (Waikato Chamber of Commerce), left and Teuila Maggof (Waikato Pacific Business Network) at Strengthening South Waikato’s Business Community launch at the New Zealand Timber Museum in Putāruru.
Antanas Procuta (Paua Architects), left, and Jamie Mikkelson (Blue Pacific Minerals) at Strengthening South Waikato’s Business Community.
Tikina Heremia (Wintec Te Pukenga), left and Te Urikore Biddle (Wintec Te Pukenga) at Strengthening South Waikato’s Business Community. Photos: Mary Anne Gill
A recent SODA Women in Business Expo at The Atrium in Hamilton showcased support options for women in business and featured guest speakers, Powrsuit founders Kristen Lunman and Natalie Ferguson. SODA Inc is a Hamilton-based growth driver and around 150 women attended this latest expo. Pictured, from left, are SODA’s Anna Devcich and Natalie McKeany, with Kristen Lunman, Natalie Ferguson, Angela Smith and SODA’s Fern Kelly-Zander and Sue Loder. Photo: supplied
We entered five projects into the 2025 New Zealand Commercial Project Awards and received five awards… Gold for Ray Staiger, Gold for Fergus Bar, Gold for Waikato Hospital Molecular Laboratory, Silver for RML (and Silver for Metlifecare Somervale in the Bay of Plenty).
We couldn’t be prouder.
Here’s to successful partnerships, collaboration, innovation, building excellence, and the teams that make it happen.
Need a solution for your business? Let’s work together.
Ray Staiger
Fergus Bar & Resturant
Waikato Hospital Molecular Laboratory RML